Wherever The Road Leads

Cloaked In Beauty by Karen Witemeyer is a powerful Christian historical romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is the third book in Texas Ever After series but can be read as a stand-alone.

This is a book about love and riches. We see the steadfast love of three generations of women who will fiercely protect those whom they love. This even extends to Rusty, a pet wolf. He, too, loves and protects. Likewise, his owner also loves and protects him. It is a beautiful bond showing the loyalty of animals to their owners.

True riches are found in the hearts of others and in the love of God for His children.

We witness how the love of money and power totally corrupts as there are some black hearts within the novel. “He couldn’t imagine living a life where a person’s worth was judged by one’s finances, social connections and fashion sense.” We see the contrast between those who love riches and those who love others. “She preferred a cosy cottage surrounded by God’s creation over a society that judged women by their beauty, connections and ability to converse about the weather.” Slightly tongue-in-cheek and wonderfully written.

There is nothing wrong with having money. It is what you do with it that counts.

Within the tale we see references to fairytales, particularly Little Red Riding Hood. There are also Biblical illustrations as we witness two young boys being rescued and there is a widow who offers hospitality. She gives what little she has, after being faithful to the call of God on her heart.

We see that when God calls us to it, we cannot fail. “God didn’t call man to a task only to stand back and let him fail.”

Whatever problems we encounter, nothing ever surprises God. “There’s no problem bigger than our God.” Nothing is ever too big for God to handle.

There are times when our prayers are so desperate that words just will not come. It is then that God hears the groanings of our heart and soul. “Desperate groaning had been all she’d been able to manage as her soul cried out to the Lord for help.” When we trust God, we know that He has our tomorrows all firmly in His sight. “Worrying about tomorrow only served to steal the joy from today.”

We witness sacrificial love. “Loving someone meant putting their needs above your own.” It is a love that lets go in order to protect.

All the characters were well drawn, likable and believable. I never wanted Cloaked In Beauty to end. I feel bereft as I have left behind a whole host of characters who have felt like dear friends. – And I really want to know what happens next!

I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON