About the Book

Book: Promise of Purity

Author: Marguerite Martin Gray

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: February 14, 2023

Is true purity found in the laws of religion or in the hearts of the faithful?

East Molesey, England, 1661—

With the return of the exiled king to his rightful throne, Kate Sinclair’s world of black and white now offers the hope of color. But where does color-loving Kate fit? In the bakery as the daughter of a Puritan or in the palace garden among God’s myriad hues? Certainly not within the palace walls of an immoral court with new friends.

Exiled with King Charles II on the continent, Peter Reresby claims unwavering support of his friend’s regained crown. While fighting for the monarchy against his family’s wishes, his sister disappears, and Peter is determined to find her.

When their opposing beliefs collide, Kate and Peter witness a true test of faith in the ability of mankind to shed the past in order to preserve the future… and perhaps learn that the “greatest of these” truly is love.

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About the Author

Marguerite Martin Gray is the author of Hold Me Close, Surround Me, and Bring Me Near– Revolutionary Faith Books One, Two and Three. Besides researching her historical novels, she enjoys studying history and writing fiction. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and has degrees in French, Spanish, and Journalism from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, and a MA in English from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. Marguerite is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Abilene Writers Guild, Daughters of the American Revolution, South Carolina Historical Society, and Preservation Society of Charleston. She currently lives in North Louisiana with her husband and Cleo, her cat. Her two adult children keep her up to date and young. Follow Marguerite at http://margueritemartingray.com.

More from Marguerite

Hello from north Louisiana. I am so happy to be here with you. When I am not writing, you will most likely find me outside in my garden, reading on the deck or front porch, or hiking/walking in the woods and parks. I love the outdoors, although I am not the athletic sports type, more like a nature lover. That is one reason I have enjoyed writing the novels for Gardens in Time.

When I was a preteen, I had the awesome privilege of residing in England outside of Liverpool while my father pursued an advanced degree in architecture. For a few years, I had the gardens of Britain and Europe as my playground. My sisters and I made up games on the lawns and in the gardens of the estates—supervised, of course. Hide-and-seek in castle ruins or tag in rose gardens or getting lost in mazes proved great entertainment. Hampton Court Palace Gardens was one of those majestic places.

Promise of Purity is set at Hampton Court Palace in 1661 during the return of Charles II from exile. Kate is a Puritan waiting for color to fill her life after a dismal rule under Cromwell. I visited Hampton Court again in June 2022. I wandered in the rose gardens and marveled at the herb plots. Wildflowers existed between the manicured plots of lilies. I strolled through the Privy Garden that my character Kate brings back to life. Walking in my characters’ footsteps energizes me as I present them to you, the reader.

Enjoy the journey through Hampton Court Gardens.

MY REVIEW

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.