The Engagement Charade by Karen Kirst ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Ellie Jameson lost her husband and lives with her controlling in-laws, she is pregnant and doesn’t want to think about what their plans for her child might be. So she takes a chance at a job, and finds a place to board in town. Ellie won the cooking contest to become the new cook at Plum Café, but she struggles to communicate with the restaurant owner about the menu and other concerns because he spends his days hiding in his office.

Alexander Copeland just wants to be left alone. He came to Gatlinburg to escape the memories of his late wife and son, and in his grief has turned his back on God. Despite everything that Ellie has been through, she comes to work every day with a smile, and tries to coax Alex into the world of the living by cooking him special dishes, encouraging him to catch fish for the restaurant and has ideas for sprucing up the place. One night Ellie stays to work late so Alex offers to bring her home, and gets a picture of how oppressive her in-laws are, so to protect her he tells them that he is Ellie’s fiancé.

But as the charade grows and pushes him out of his solitude, could he be the answer to Ellie’s prayers?

Ellie is a bright and optimistic woman, she doesn’t sit and feel sad for herself when she rightfully could do just that, but she puts her energy towards helping others, especially Alex. She isn’t scared off by his gruff demeanor, and she doesn’t like lying to people even though she knows that he did it for her. She is my favorite person in this story because of her hopeful and encouraging spirit.

There is great interaction between the characters, and I like how Ellie speaks freely about her faith. Ellie sees Alex for the man that he could be again, and I like how together they find hope for a future in an unconventional charade. Engaging from start to finish, I love revisiting Gatlinburg and its wonderful residents. Wonderful story, definitely recommend!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."