Such a great retelling of Snow White! I definitely enjoyed reading this book and liked the fact that it was Christian historical fiction as well. I think that made it unique. I recommend this book to pretty much anyone that enjoys fairy tale retellings or historical stories. ( )

I loved this book! A fantastic story with wonderful characters! I even liked the antagonist! My favorite character is Titus! A man's man. Honest, true, trustworthy, and stalwart! The love story is sweet and super romantic!
A definite must read! ( )

A funny, romantic, and exciting fairytale that takes place in Texas? Karen Witemeyer is known for her humorous Western romances and now, she's offering a retelling of a beloved fairytale! This is a captivating story that alludes to the classic fairytale, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. I found myself laughing out loud at the antics of Doc Kingsley and the Geezer Gang, the six retired cowhands who live on Doc's Diamond D Ranch, and I enjoyed comparing each of their quirky personalities with those of the original seven dwarfs! Witemeyer also adds action, danger, and mystery, but it's the special connection between Penelope and a very reluctant Titus Kingsley that makes this such a special story! How could anyone not love a homeless young girl who only wants to make others happy?

Witemeyer never fails to offer inspiration in the faith messages that she weaves into her plots, and this book is no exception. Readers are given a powerful reminder that sin and evil do exist in our world, but they can be overcome with faith, prayer, and God's Word. Fairest of Heart is the first book of a new series, Texas Ever After. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy today!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Bethany House. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts. ( )

First sentence: "Keep your eyes down and head bowed," Edith instructed. "Do nothing to draw attention. A woman like Narcissa LaBelle lives for the spotlight, so you must make yourself dim in comparison. I won't be able to help you once her troupe leaves town."

Historical romance. Christian fiction. Spin on Snow White.

Karen Witemeyer is one of my all-time favorite, favorite, favorite authors. I wasn't sure, at first, how I felt about this being a spin on Snow White. But I ended up loving this spin. I shouldn't have doubted that she was capable of such a feat.

Penelope Snow is an orphan working as an assistant/servant to Narcissa LaBelle, an actress with a traveling troupe. The troupe has come to Texas and is performing around the state. Travis Kingsley is a Texas Ranger. He's just off one job and mid-rescue of an injured dog when these two meet. Their first meeting is oh-so-brief and seemingly inconsequential. And perhaps it might have stayed that way....if....

Penelope is trying on her mistress's corset and gown...as a favor to the seamstress. Narcissa was very angry with the last fitting of the dress. She has made several heated threats. Penelope and the seamstress want to calm the situation down. But when someone interrupts this fitting and jumps to conclusions...that Penelope wants to become an actress on the stage, a rival to Madame LaBelle, well, Narcissa decides to send Mr. Cecil Hunt to take care of her....permanently.

Fortunately, Penelope is found by seven old cowhands--who live together at the Diamond D ranch. (There is a "Doc" who is grandpa to Travis.) Penny finds her people, if you will, and truly feels like she belongs with these seven! (And Travis does come by to visit now and then.)

As for Travis, well, he's on a new case...a string of burglaries/robbery. Men are reporting missing jewelry and the theatre troupe is soon suspect since their route links up to these robberies.

Is Penny safe in her new life? Will Narcissa (and Hunt) hunt her down again?

I loved this one so much. I loved all the characters. I think it being a spin on Snow White worked really well. ( )

I very much enjoyed this retelling of the fairytale, Snow White! Penelope Snow is a gentle, beautiful, kind soul who is the perfect juxtaposition to the jealous and cruel Narcissa. And I loved the personalities and banter of the seven elderly men who grow protective of their Penelope as she wins over their hearts with her sweet personality. I thought the author did a great job of taking a classic fairytale and putting a Christian spin on it with the theme of true beauty coming from the heart. The setting was a little reminiscent of the Hanger’s Horsemen series I loved so much from this talented author, with scenes of beautiful Texas countryside well described. I also enjoyed the mystery woven among the pages and found myself easily captured by the storyline. I had a hard time putting the novel down! I really loved this novel and am looking forward to the next one! Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. ( )