“On the bridge Kate faced Hampton Court. The red-brick walls held secret stories.”

Promise of Purity takes place in the early days of the reign of Charles II, which followed the English Civil Wars and the brief reign of Cromwell. Can the country come together again? More specifically, Marguerite Martin Gray takes us into the lives of two individuals, Kate Sinclair and Peter Reresby and their families. Peter and Kate are at odds, ideologically. She wants desperately to see the court and a little of the glamorous life that transpires there; he has lived it, and knows the seamy side -and wants to protect her from it. Can a Puritan and a Courtier find common ground, or are their differences too great to allow for grace, reasonable compromise, and forgiveness?

I certainly could relate to Kate and her strict upbringing. How close can one get to those who do wrong without being compromised? Must one stay far away, or is there room for prayerful involvement that may shine a light in a dark place? Kate is quite frustrated. “How do I follow what I think God is calling me to do when Father sets the rules?”

Thankfully, Gray includes enough indication of the kind of morality of Charles II’s court that we get a good feel for its debauchery. Yet we are not needlessly exposed to sordid details.

I really loved Kate and Betsy and their friendship, but, wow, I could see how Peter charmed Kate! He is a rare gem.

I loved the natural infusion of prayers into the novel. Also the very real sense of listening to God’s voice as one prayed. I also loved the growth of many individuals, some towards God, some towards people. We have to show real love to people or our love for God falls flat.

Part of the Gardens in Time series, Promise of Purity stands alone well.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Dreams are fine as long as you can still live in reality.”

“Fear stopped her from divulging too much. Fear of disapproval, of her imagination, of loneliness.”

“No, I am invited, simply dressed and humble, into the courtyards by His Majesty himself.” ( )

This is a story about two people struggling as they figure out where they belong. I loved Kate and her uncompromising faith. As she starts to work making meals for the king we get to see how creative she is with herbs and working in the garden. She has always dreamed of making delicious dishes but working in such a place may be uncomfortable at times. Her father is concerned that with her working there she will become associated with the ways going on that are not of God. I could sense her drawing closer to God as worldly things tried to draw her away from her faith.

Peter is supporting his friend as he reclaims the title of king. He is in search of his sister when it is discovered that she is missing. He seems to have a fondness for Kate yet they could be considered enemies in a way. I wondered if Peter would ever be able to face Kate’s father who disagrees with the actions of what Peter believes in. Even though Peter is not royalty, because he works so closely with the king he is considered to have more privilege than others.

As the story shows these two characters do not see eye to eye when it comes to God. Peter does not think God did anything to prevent the turbulent years where the Puritans were in charge . Peter now puts his trust in himself and the king. Will this cause problems for him and Kate as they start to get to know each other better?

I enjoyed reading about the inner workings of a king and all the responsibilities they have. The lavish feast was something to behold. Kate is excited that the king will be dining on the many foods she made. In the midst of all the excitement about the king returning is a little mystery surrounding Peter’s sister. I loved this part as it illustrates forgiveness and second chances.

The ending is nice and I loved how Peter find his way back to God. Kate is a good example of never allowing temptation to lead her away from her faith. I loved how the author brings two people from different backgrounds and shows how hope and trust can help those who struggle with their faith.

I receive a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )