Fair Is the Rose


The Rainbow comes and goes,
And lovely is the Rose,
The Moon doth with delight
Look round her when the heavens are bare,
Waters on a starry
night
Are beautiful and fair.

William Wordsworth


That crimson rose how sweet and fair!
But love is far a sweeter flower
Amid life’s thorny path o’ care.
Robert Burns

My dearest Liz,
As an author I think you're a whiz

Oh, my goodness, sakes alive,
Once again, you've kept me up till five.

Reading, sobbing weeping,
All this instead of sleeping.

For Leana, I just ache;
I think my heart will break.

Rose, she's never toiled,
I think she's a little spoiled.

Jamie, he's changed and turned,
So much about love he's learned.

My life with these is so entwined,
I'm about to lose my mind.

To know what happens, I fear
I just can't wait a whole year.

For your next project, please do not explore
Solomon and his wives galore!

This cannot be, it just will not do
I can barely handle Jacob and his two!

Rhonda from Texas

 

 


Here's what readers are saying about

 

"I wrote to you after reading Bookends and Mixed Signals because I LOVED those books! For some reason I had never gotten around to your historical fiction...until now! What WAS I waiting for?! Great googly moogly, can you write! I am in the thick of Fair Is the Rose and saw to my delight that you have a THIRD in the series! Woohoo! I can't even come up with words to tell you how much I am loving those books."
   Karen from Oklahoma

"I never before have been so affected by a book as much as I have Fair Is The Rose. I read a lot--mostly Christian novels--but this one was special. I admit, I had a hard time getting through Thorn In My Heart. The problem was mine. I spent too much time trying to match the biblical account with the novel. For the second book, I let the story stand on its own. And, wow, what a difference. I couldn't put it down. God has truly gifted you."
  
Kelly from Ohio

"I'm almost to the end of Fair is the Rose and eagerly looking forward to Whence Came a Prince. You have pulled me back in time and across 'the Pond' when reading about these characters. Fair Is the Rose has me in tears, or near to them, almost every night. I feel so badly for Leana right now; she is such a graceful, godly woman and I hate seeing her hurt so badly. Sometimes I wish I could comfort her. Och! See what I mean? You've got me right there with her! As one Scotswoman to another, keep up the great work and may God continue to bless!"
  
Jean from Kentucky

"It is rare anymore to find a novel that captures my heart and attention the way your novels have. The ending completely unnerved me...I am in suspense until the conclusion is available! The only other author that has captivated me the way that your novels have is Francine Rivers. There is such depth and richness in your stories. May God bless you as you work for Him!"
   Janelle from Kentucky

"I reread the first two to refresh my memory, and I'm sad to say, I already finished Book Three! You are a wonderful storyteller. I feel I really lived through those times with the characters. I laughed out loud, and sobbed a few times, as they journeyed to the conclusion. Most of the time I donate my books to our church library but I always keep yours."
   Deana from Oregon

"This trilogy has been the best I have ever read, and I read a lot. I especially loved Fair is the Rose. I don't think I have ever read a book that caused such an emotional reaction within me. From the very beginning I have been a Leana fan. I just felt that some how, some way God would have to find a way for her to be loved and happy with or without Jamie. You have become one of my favorite authors, so I am very much looking forward to your next book."
   Kim via e-mail

"I have just finished reading Fair Is the Rose, after reading Thorn in My Heart. How do you write such amazing characters? I have come to hate them, love them, pour out my heart of sympathy for them and feel somewhat silly doing it, since they are only fiction. I have wanted to comfort and hug Leana, yell and give Rose a piece of my mind, and as far as Jamie goes--I can't but feel so bad for him, since his situation is out of this world. You have taken this timeless tale, a plot that is more thrilling than any modern story, and painted a beautiful picture around it. You have taken these many characters, with whom I have never been able to truly relate, and created details through qualities that I know too well. You have an amazing gift in writing!"
   Deborah via email

"I can't remember the last book I read that 'twas impossible to put it down and get my work done. God is in and through the text of that book you wrote. Such a blessing! You might consider offering a package of free tissues with the sale of each copy of the book..."
   Susan via e-mail

"I simply couldn't put down Fair Is The Rose. To me, it was absolute genius how the plot managed to follow the structure of the original Leah/Rachel/Jacob triangle while encompassing the guidelines of the Scottish church. I also was moved by the genuine love and rivalry between the sisters, as well as the appreciation, and eventually, love that the husband holds for them both. Beautiful, heartwrenching, emotional, classic. What else can I say? I simply love your books."
   Ximena via email

"I have never felt compelled to write an author the way that I do having read Fair Is the Rose. I read Thorn in My Heart several months ago and loved the story of Jamie, Leana, and Rose...what a testimony of what God can do with the most messed up situations! I kept telling myself, 'It's just a story,' but I could not bear to read what Leana's heart was going to experience. Leana's faith is extraordinary. She needed nothing but her heavenly father. I wanted her to fight for Jamie and Ian, to expose Rose, to stand up brazenly to her father. She did none of that. She accepted the fact that sin brings consequences, yet God remains with us! Wow! I'm a lover of books and have read hundreds of Christian and secular titles, but none has ever prompted me to write the author. I've never been so moved by a book!"
  
Ruth via e-mail

"I did not think I could feel more deeply while reading a book than I did with Thorn in My Heart. But you have far surpassed that with Fair Is the Rose. I disliked Jamie the entire time in book one, yet I completely fell in love with him this time. Rose was my "thorn" in this book (what a brat!). Meanwhile, I have loved Leana through both books. My husband thought something was seriously wrong with me as I was crying hysterically through some of the more emotional portions of the story. What depth of sorrow I felt again! Thank you for an amazing story. And thank you for reminding me of how special my own prince is!"
   Rebecca via e-mail

"I just finished reading my copy of Fair Is the Rose and wanted to share how much I loved it. Although, halfway through the book I was quite angry with you, put the book down and stopped reading for awhile. What swickerie, Liz! (You ken I like happy endings?) Finally, curiosity got the better of me, and I had to continue reading to see how on earth you were going to redeem the situation. I'm glad I did, for I discovered in Leana a woman of such grace, strength, and compassion and a tale of such forgiveness and mercy it put me to shame. Many tears later I came to the end, and found myself even forgiving Rose and wishing for some happiness for her too. I've even forgiven you :) I'm eagerly anticipating the third installment, but I will confess to a guilty hope that the glaumshach Lachlan McBride will finally get his comeuppance!"
   Eveline via e-mail

"I was really impressed–and really moved–by your books Thorn in My Heart and Fair Is the Rose. Not only did they have a real Scottish flavour, the stories were true to the biblical story and, I believe, true to God’s heart. The characters were so real! I am excited to read Whence Came a Prince when it comes out.Your books are such a blessing!!"
   Dallas via e-mail

"Thorn in My Heart and Fair Is the Rose have changed my life. I walked around the house, Rose in hand, drying my tear-stained face with a wash cloth because I ran out of Kleenex and toilet paper. I don't think I have ever cried as severely as I did reading this book. Though, it was much like a good workout...a great release. I can hardly wait for Whence Came a Prince, and I cannot stop recommending this series to my friends. I am now off to build a box bed and plant an herb garden..."
   Sabrina from Tennessee

"I just finished Fair Is the Rose last night (at 1:30 am!!!!) - I truly needed tissues!!! Thank you again for another compelling and marvelous read. I truly couldn't put it down, and, wonder of wonders, was not able to predict how it would end. You have opened my eyes to think of Leah's story in a very new light. It's so easy to skim through Bible stories like those and never really imagine what it was like for the characters involved. I really can't wait to see where the story leads next!!! I will be recommending this series to ALL my reading friends!!"
   Beverley via e-mail

"I did so enjoy Fair Is the Rose and felt quite lost when it was finished...I wanted it to go on and on!! I am delighted to read that you are writng a follow up. We have a waiting list in the library for those who want to read Fair Is the Rose, that's how popular your books are in our church."
   Mary from South Africa

"Your books tapped my heart in a way that no profound speaker or Godly person that I have ever listened to has. I learned that the embodiment of Christ's love shines through us when we would will it to. And that this love is more powerful and stronger than anything fathomable by man. I hope and pray that I can be as strong a character in this life as you have written Leana to be in your books. Your novels...are truly an inspiration and a challenge!"
   Helen from Virginia

"These two books were powerful statements of love. You even inspired me to do my own soul searching. I am now going to go back and reread the story of Jacob and Leah and Rachel with new eyes."
   Jo from Texas

"The wonderful message of loving, unselfish sacrifice comes through so powerfully in Fair is the Rose. I have some thoughts about what I would like to see happen to the characters in the next book, and will be interested to see how it all turns out. Thanks again for thought-provoking, inspiring, and enjoyable reading."
   Junean via e-mail

"I just finished reading Fair Is The Rose, and I've never gotten so emotionally attached to a novel and its characters! It leaves me praying for March 2005 to get here quickly so I can be reunited with my dear friend, Leana, and fall in love with Jamie McKie's mossy green eyes all over again! You have such a gift in spinning these tales, especially where God is so glorified. I Iong to scrape every last coin from the couch cushions to fly myself to Scotland, but will be content with the next best thing: reading Thorn In My Heart and Fair Is the Rose over and over again until Whence Came A Prince comes out!"
   Amber from Tennessee

"Oh, yes, I read Thorn in My Heart. Could not wait until Fair is the Rose came out. My heart lies in Ireland and Scotland. I read stories placed in these countries and I so belong there!! You have such a wonderful talent in your storytelling. I never quite get the same feeling when I read other storytellers, as I do with you. A beautiful gift from God. March 2005 cannot come too soon."
   Camille via e-mail

"I just finished reading Fair Is the Rose; actually I finished a while ago but just now am done with mopping my eyes! How beautifully tender you climaxed this part of the story. I could hardly wait to see how you wove it together and I was not disappointed. A masterful task, these stories you have written. I applaud your handling of the Biblical tales and the way you have enfolded them in Scottish wrapping. Am anxious for the next one!"
   Lois from Washington

"I could not wait for the second book to be published continuing the tale of Leana, Jamie, and Rose. These characters have been very real to me. I actually was praying to God to ease Leana's suffering and let her feel his peace, then I remembered, 'oh yeah, this is fiction.' I feel your character Leana is a remarkable woman and an excellent role model. Obviously, I am awaiting book three--eagerly."
   Julie via e-mail

"All I can say is wow! I just finished reading Fair Is the Rose (in just one sitting) and I have to tell you it is the most brilliant book I've ever read. You really yanked at my heartstrings with this one! Bravo! I can't wait until March!"
   Sarah via e-mail

"I have just finished reading Fair is the Rose. I cried buckets! Heartwarming, heart wrenching...and my heart ached for Leana. I feel as though I know the characters personally, and I can not wait for your next book! You are my favorite author."
   Laura from Kansas

"Rarely has a book brought me to tears as this one did. You are just getting too good when it comes to writing novels. I do not normally care for historical novels and I enjoyed Thorn in My Heart and Fair is the Rose throughly."
   Bonda via e-mail

"I just finished Fair Is The Rose and it was fantastic! The work is excellent and I could hardly put the book down. I was reading before bed one evening and when I woke up the next morning, I immediately began praying earnestly for Leana. When I was awake enough to remember she’s a fictitious character, I changed my prayer to, 'Thank God for blessing us with Christian authors such as yourself!'"
   Judy from Pennsylvania

"I recently read Thorn in My Heart and Fair Is the Rose and have just fallen in love with the characters. The endings are so bittersweet. I look forward to finding out what happens to Leana. Thank you for the beautifully written novels and taking me to a diffferent place and time."
   Pamela from Oregon

"I just finished reading Fair is the Rose. It was wonderful! I think the whole saga would make a great movie! Thanks for sharing your amazing gift of weaving an intricate, compelling story with biblical truths. Can't wait for the conclusion!"
   Sarabeth from Texas

"Being an avid reader, there is nothing I like better than a good book. I have just finished two of them…Thorn in My Heart and Fair is the Rose. Thank you for this lovely, heartbreaking saga. I had a lump in my throat that still reappears just thinking about Jamie, Leana…and yes, even Rose (who, I have to admit, I am not very fond of at the moment!) Being a lover of all things Celtic, of good books, and of God…you have definitely earned a place on my list of 'must read' authors."
   Cheri from Illinois

"Once again you have created a masterpiece. My heart still lingers in those green hills of Scotland! You have portrayed the unspeakable consequences of sin and the hatefulness of scorn so graphically that my heart was wrenched! Who could read these words and not be shaken to the bone? The strength of Leana, that grew even stronger the greater her suffering, is an amazing story—WOW! The true greatness of this book lies in the way you painted such a clear picture of the strength of divine, habitual, selfless love—love that costs—redemptive love! Fair Is the Rose has been a spiritual experience for me that I pray will make a forever difference in my life."
   Sandy from Georgia

"My colleagues said I looked pale today, I didn't like to admit that it was because I was up all night crying over a wonderful book! I feel myself identifying totally with Leana's situation as the quieter, plainer, patient sister. Thank you for touching my heart so much. Your writing is a gift from God and points to his unfailing love for us."
   Helen from Australia

"I read Fair Is the Rose in a day because I couldn't put it down. I cried, got very angry, and loved every minute. This book is such a wonderful story of true love and sacrifice. I was so touched that I keep thinking about it. I also anxiously re-read the story of Jacob in the Bible. You truly made me think of their lives in a personal way. Keep up the great writing. I cannot wait for the next book!"
   LeAlison via e-mail"

I have just finished reading Fair Is the Rose. I have not stopped crying since! Liz Curtis Higgs, you are now my favorite author! I am in love with Jamie, Leana, Ian, and Rose and I can't wait for Whence Came a Prince. Your books touch my heart in more ways than I could ever say. Thank you!"
   Susan from Massachusetts

"I just finished Fair Is the Rose. I can honestly say that I have never in my life had tears while reading a novel. Absolutely, completely tore me apart! I am so very anxious to read the final one next year!"
   Amanda via e-mail

"Thank you for your truth and commitment in breathing life into these ancient Bible characters. You have a gift to make them real, alive, human (with all their flaws), instead of flat characters on a page. You caused me to stop and really consider these people and what I can learn from their lives. Thank you for telling this eye-opening, yet heart- wrenching story. Your time, effort, energy, and creativity are truly a blissin."
   Annette via e-mail

"Och, lass! Such emotions your story has evoked! It's hard to put into words how I feel after reading this brilliant sequel to Thorn In My Heart. There is a lot of Christian fiction out there, but a lot of it does not hold my interest. This definitely does...it's one of my all-time favorites. Goes on my PERMANENT shelf along with the Jan Karon Mitford series. Thank you for such a moving and intimate book."
   Christine from Connecticut

"I just finished reading the latest about Leana, Jamie, and Rose.I have to admit that I favored Rose in the first book. After reading the sequel, I have changed my view completely. I cannot wait to read the next book...Wherever the plot leads you, know that you have someone thinking that March 2005 is altogether too far away!"
   Alli via e-mail

"As I write this my eyes are puffy and blood shot from the late night of reading, and my box of Kleenex is empty. I, too, had to remind myself that it was 'just a book' and yet I cannot stop trying to predict what you have in store for Whence Came a Prince. As an avid reader I thoroughly enjoy all the vivid details and emotions you portray in this series. I could write you a novel about how I enjoy your writing...what blessings I've gleaned from this latest book. I will be delving into the Old Testament to find the 'real' Rose, Leana, and Jamie."
   Jenne via e-mail

"I cannot tell you the last book that has touched my heart as this one has. I have cried buckets of tears and have agonized for the characters in your book as well as what they represent in my own heart and life. I have gone back to the biblical account and poured over that some, written down some notes and made comparisons. I am overwhelmed by God's sacrificial love for me and through your book I have been reminded anew of His great love."
   Penny via e-mail

"I positively LOVED Fair is the Rose. While reading the last fourth of the book I cried and cried. My husband kept saying "what in the world are you reading?" It was fantasic. Everything. The story, the descriptions, the language (I do, however, keep saying "aye") were all perfect. I can't believe all the research you did. Keep writing! You are the BEST!"
   Heather via e-mail

"Your description of Rose...made me feel as if I knew her personally. Far from feeling sympathy towards her or watching her 'grow,' I was detested at her selfishness, her braisant behaviour towards Jamie, and her disgusting behaviour directed at Leana. I never imagined that I could feel so strongly towards a character in a book....I despised her. Please do not mistake this as a criticize Rose letter, for I want it to be far from that...I want to congratulate you on your amazing use of language and emotion. Although I do not like Rose, her personality is so formed in my head that I cannot brush her off or forget her. Thank you for allowing me to enter into the world that you so lovingly created in your two novels. It was a pure joy to experience them."
   Tara from Australia

"Both Mum and I enjoyed the book tremendously and can't wait to see
how the story will develop. Your book made for a riveting read in the
natural, but also at the emotional and spiritual levels. Your book gave me an insight into the Church of Scotland that I had not known before. Please could you hurry up with Whence Came a Prince!"
   Janette from Newton Stewart, Scotland

"I thoroughly enjoyed Thorn in My Heart and was thrilled to read the second book. What surprised me most was how much the story affected my emotions! I wanted to throttle Rose for her selfishness. My husband is a Presbyterian pastor so I drilled him with questions on how our session might sort through such a mess. I thank you for another great book. I can't wait to see how you finish it...thanks for the new 'spin' on the story. Now...BACK TO YOUR WRITING! (Please!)"
   Vicki from Maryland

"Thank you for the wonderful story and lesson of Fair Is the Rose. As I
have been reading these books, I have also been studying more about Jacob, Leah, and Rachel. Both stories are filled with such heartbreak, but such victory as the individuals learn to trust in God. Thank you for bringing this Old Testament story to life with Scottish fiction. You are such a wonderful author that for a few hours it was like being transported back in time, and witnessing the events first-hand. I am currently studying for my Masters in History so I love the way you bring history alive in your work of fiction!"
   Kirsten from Montana

"This Rose is now forever embedded in my heart. I felt a lot of emotions over her, identifying totally with her somewhat thorny, self-centered beginnings as well as her hunger for transformation. I am staggered by the research required to produce this level of authenticity. I can almost smell the kitchen, hear the noises in the house, feel the crisp, damp air, watch Leana mix her medicines, feel her wrenching sorrow at losing those most dear. I hope the world recognizes what they have here--a series worthy of becoming classics."
   Virelle from New York

"I have been reading Fair is the Rose and have been greatly moved. Had to put it down and stop reading for a bit at the place where Leana is being disciplined by the Church and its poor excuse for a pastor. (I wanted to kick his butt into next week, but had to remind myself it's only a book.) Your research into 17th and 18th century Scottish history shows. A great tale."
   Robert via e-mail

"I have finished Fair Is the Rose!! I am in complete awe!! Grace / Forgiveness / Real Love / Mercy / Strength / Patience--themes so intricately woven, and masterfully written for eternal impact!! Have I mentioned yet--AWESOME!! I am deeply moved by giftedness that translates the Scripture and its true themes into 18th- century reality for 21st-century application for my heart!"
   Naomi from Arizona

"I've enjoyed your books for years. My poor friends have more than once had to hear me recap a story from Bad Girls of the Bible. More recently, I made four of them read Thorn in My Heart. Now, I just finished Fair Is the Rose. You broke my heart and I cried with Leana. I am going to be anxiously awaiting the 3rd one. They are wonderful books and I thank you for the privilege of reading them."
   Krista via e-mail

"I'm hooked on this series, and read Rose till 4:00 in the morning, as I kept telling myself 'one more chapter!' I keep wondering how you will resolve this! I know, these are not real people, but I am so wrapped up in their lives and have to keep telling myself 'this is just a book!' What a masterful storyteller you are. Thanks again for a wonderful series!"
  
Bethany via e-mail

"I finished Fair Is the Rose at 3 in the morning after waiting for the novel for several months. Certainly, Rose was worth waiting for! Oh, but I have been melancholy these past two days!! Your book so wrenched my heart! And now I must wait to see how in God's earth you will pull together this tragic triangle and leave your readers with a sense of peace and satisfaction. With the great gift God has given you, I have no doubt you will accomplish just that. I must thank you for renewing my faith in Christian writing. You and Francine Rivers are two authors worth passing on to my friends."
   Judith from Michigan

"I read Thorn in My Heart in two days and could not wait for Fair Is the Rose to hit the bookshelves. Once again I could not put your book down. What a superb writer you are. I felt as though I was in Auchengray watching each scene play out. I love a book that makes you feel that way. Thank you for taking me back to 1789 Scotland, it has been a most enjoyable journey."
   Denise from Pennsylvania

"Fair Is the Rose was, without a doubt, one of the most moving, all- consuming novels I have read. When I realized that Leana would be giving up all she held dear, I wanted to put the book aside because it was too painful to continue. But, I found myself holding out for the ending, hoping for the best...love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy. Your writing carried me away for a day and a night. I wanted to skip out on work, lock the doors, turn off the phone, and immerse myself in Scotland and the lives of this family. The Old Testament is well served by your loving treatment of Jacob, Leah and Rachel. Godspeed on the next installment."
   Liz from New Mexico

"I have never been so emotionally involved in a book! I first read Thorn in My Heart just over a year ago. The first day Fair Is the Rose was on the bookshelf I read it, and now I have to wait in suspense yet another year. I tend to lean toward poor Rose. Yet as anyone can see, Leana has so much more wisdom. I am overwhelmed and amazed at the emotion you have brought out in this book."
   Susie via e-mail

"When I read Fair Is the Rose, my heart was so wrenched with grief. I sobbed through that book until four in the morning! Thank you for creating such memorable characters and for your willingness to research your subject so thoroughly. The accurate details of Scottish history present in your novels is wonderful to read. I am eagerly awaiting your next installment. Will I really have to wait another year?!"
   Janet from Ohio

"Thorn in My Heart was the first book of yours I had ever read...I was anxiously waiting for Fair Is the Rose. I am an avid reader of Christian historical fiction and I have never read a book I have enjoyed more."
   Linda from Texas

"The love connection between Jamie and Leana is extraordinary! I cannot wait to read Whence Came a Prince! I read most of the Reader's Guide in the back of Fair Is The Rose and the questions you asked put a lot into my mind. I am amazed by your writing ability! You truly have a gift from God!"
   Stephanie via e-mail

"I have read many, many, novels over the past years by Francine Rivers, Jan Karon, Beverly Lewis, Janette Oke...to name a few. I just completed reading Thorn in My Heart and Fair is the Rose and thoroughly enjoyed them. I couldn't put them down (everything else had to "wait") and am eagerly awaiting Whence Came A Prince...and look forward to seeing other novels in the future."
   Loretta from Ontario, Canada

"Fair Is the Rose is wonderful!! Although Rose is headstrong and spoiled, she is very young and is trying to change. Can hardly wait for the next installment."
   Teresa via email

"I am just a basket case after reading Fair Is the Rose. My husband is ready to put me away because I am so wrapped up into fictional characters. I do not think I can dwell a whole year in 'Mental Scotland!' "
  
Rhonda via e-mail

"I am such a dreamer and I get lost in the books I read...and I am really attached to Leana's character. I just wish the next book was coming sooner, I can hardly wait!! I think you are an amazing writer and I enjoy your books thoroughly!"
   Jenna via e-mail

"It was one amazing book. I am going to start reading it again today and go slower and see what I missed. My heart breaks for Leana...and I find myself so angry with silly Rose. ARGH!"
  
Melissa from New York

"I just finished reading Fair Is the Rose. Of all the books in my book shelf I have never read such a gripping story. I have so much empathy for Leana. A book I could not put down."
   Dave via e-mail

"My, how I do enjoy your writings! Makes me want to visit Scotland. Bethankit! for gifting you with such imagination and willingness to learn and to share your insights! I was so torn.... my heart would sympathize with one... then the other... then the other... Can I possibly wait till 2005 for Whence Came a Prince???"
   Jonnelle via e-mail

"I read Fair Is the Rose last night--even though my husband and son kept interrupting! They knew better than to comment when they found me stretched across my bed with tears streaming down my face! This book took such an unexpected turn. it was almost too painful to read. However, the lessons, the changes you wove through the story wooed me on through the pages. You are a truly gifted author!"
   Beth from Colorado

"I turned the last page of Fair Is the Rose last night and prayed blessings on your writing as I can hardly wait for Whence Came a Prince! Liz, your writing is extraordinary! I laughed, I cried, I couldn't wait to turn the next page. Your imagery, your imagination, your transporting me to Scotland, your folkways, your characters, your storyline, the tapestry of scripture woven through. How you DO honor the Lord's voice in your writing."
   Dianne from Illinois

"I just cannot get enough of your works to read. You have quickly become my favorite author. I've been busy sharing your wonderful work with all my friends and associates. So far I have read Thorn in My Heart, and I just finished the incredible Fair Is the Rose. I loved it so much. What a blessing!"
   Ray from Kentucky

"I love your books!! I bought Thorn in My Heart at a church book sale, and I was hooked on page one! As I was reading it, I couldn't figure out whose side I was on. Was Leana to blame, or Rose? The day that Fair Is the Rose came out, I ran to the nearest Barnes and Noble to get it. I read the whole book in two days, only putting it down to do homework. I don't think I can wait another year for "Whence Came a Prince" to come out. God willing, Leana and Jamie will find a way to get back together, Ian will still remember her, and Rose will be sent to a convent somewhere. That would be true justice."
   Courtney via email

"I LOVED it! I am still trying to recover from the final chapter! This book is even better than the first! It really swept me along in a marvelous way!"
   Janice from Georgia

"Fair Is the Rose was a GREAT beach book! I was wide-eyed over the whole thing. I believe it will not only entertain, but provoke interest in the biblical portion and make the reader really wanting Whence Came A Prince! I loved the 'just leave the ole' reader hangin' ending! Your characters truly came to life. The villains/es hold a three-way tie: the 'wutch', Jane G., & the father. Oooh, wicked. A beautifully written book."
   Elizabeth from Kentucky

"I loved it. Sadly, the whole book was devoured in three days and now I have months to wait for more. Irritated by Lachlan, drawn to Duncan and Neda, wary of the wutch, I was so cast down when the results of the 'discrepancy' became clear. You were so clever in reviving my spirits before I ran out of chapters. Your book was truly a blissin."
  
Rozanne from Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland

"What a compelling story!! I didn't want to stop when the book was finished. This one is better than Thorn in My Heart, and that was a fantastic book. I have never been into the Old Testament with such fervor. Fair Is the Rose makes it come alive. Fabulous!"
   Gloria from Kentucky

"A marvellous story! The attention to detail is beautiful. And what a treat, to come upon Rabbie Burns himself!! Oh, that was a master stroke! It's a splendid book."
  
Helen from the Isle of Skye, Scotland

"I read Fair Is the Rose in two days, but waited until my husband fell asleep to finish the last few chapters because I prefer to weep in private. I think of the story nearly every day, and I believe that is how a great book is supposed to affect you."
  
Jeanene from Kentucky

"Fair Is the Rose is just as good as or better than Thorn in My Heart. I couldn't put it down. By the time I had finished the book, I was sobbing out loud. Rose, as is Thorn, is a powerful book because I cannot get it out of my mind. When I think of Rose, the characters are real and so is their world. You have written a masterpiece in Thorn and Rose, so I know Whence Came a Prince will be just as spectacular."
  
Mary Jo from Indiana

"The book was terrific. I forced myself to put it down at Chapter 20 last night, then couldn't sleep and finished it this morning around 9. Hard to explain to the kids why I had tears coursing down my face. Do you have any idea how long it has been since a book made me break out into tears? I've already started re-reading Fair is the Rose. Wonder what that says about me? I know what it says about the writing..."
   Verna from Texas

"What a wonderful Christian novel! I loved it. It took me a little longer to complete because I cried so much that I had to put it down for a while before resuming my reading. I look forward to the sequel next year; as I am missing Jamie, Rose, and Leana, like old friends."
   Carol from Kentucky

"I could not put the book down! The story, like Thorn in My Heart, is simply gripping. I moved in and out of love with each character every other page. Oh, how it teaches the sovereignty of God! What a picture of the Lord's grace toward us who are so unlovable--and a picture of how we learn to love because He first loved us! Then there is the mastery of the Scottish brogue, the vocabulary of the day, the geographical accuracy, the descriptions of the countryside...pure genius. Fair is the Rose is a heart-stopping story!"
   Glenna from Arizona

"Recently finished your two novels. I'm not a fiction reader, but I loved your books. If fiction is judged by tears shed, they are a good read! Especially Fair Is the Rose. Oh, my!"
   Linda from Michigan

"Fair Is the Rose touched me deeply. Love, forgiveness, selflessness...oh dear, I will weep again! I loved the strength of Leana, the growth of Rose, and the integrity of Jamie. Each taught me a lesson of love and forgiveness and grace, causing me to look inside and recommit to extending more of that to the people in my own life."
   Elizabeth from Kentucky