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Healing Ruby #1
Healing Ruby
Ruby Graves, a young girl in Depression-era Alabama, faces the hardships of poverty and loss with as much faith as she can muster. At only the age of thirteen, she’s already lost a younger brother to illness, and now faces losing both her father and the boy who’s stealing her heart to illnesses as well. Armed with her beloved Scriptures, she prays daily for their healing, only to have her tender faith shattered by her father’s death.
Through her pain, she’s able to connect with her long-lost Uncle Asa, who’s mere presence at his brother’s funeral brings murmurs of a scandalous past involving her parents and a prominent local pastor, Irwin Cass. When Ruby discovers that one of Asa’a many secrets is an ability to heal, and that she may be next in line for the “gift,” she vows to find the faith that has eluded her so far, a faith that could mean never losing loved ones again.
But faith and doubt can’t reside in the same heart, not according to her father, and doubt is Ruby’s constant companion. As she struggles to find the true meaning of faith, she’s opposed at every turn by the pastor who would see her family destroyed and a community that can’t see deeper than the color of one’s skin. Through her search for a faith that could move mountains and a true understanding of her gift, can Ruby trust in a God that may require the ultimate sacrifice?
Through her pain, she’s able to connect with her long-lost Uncle Asa, who’s mere presence at his brother’s funeral brings murmurs of a scandalous past involving her parents and a prominent local pastor, Irwin Cass. When Ruby discovers that one of Asa’a many secrets is an ability to heal, and that she may be next in line for the “gift,” she vows to find the faith that has eluded her so far, a faith that could mean never losing loved ones again.
But faith and doubt can’t reside in the same heart, not according to her father, and doubt is Ruby’s constant companion. As she struggles to find the true meaning of faith, she’s opposed at every turn by the pastor who would see her family destroyed and a community that can’t see deeper than the color of one’s skin. Through her search for a faith that could move mountains and a true understanding of her gift, can Ruby trust in a God that may require the ultimate sacrifice?
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2014
862 people are currently reading
1320 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer H. Westall
8 books92 followersJennifer Westall loves writing Christian fiction as a way of exploring her own faith journey. Saving Grace (2016) is the third installment in the Healing Ruby series, the first of which was inspired by events in the life of her grandmother and explores the mysteries of faith healing. She's also the author of Love's Providence (2012), a contemporary Christian romance novel that navigates the minefield of dating and temptation. She resides in northern Virginia with her husband and two boys, where she homeschools by day and writes by night, thus explaining those pesky bags under her eyes. Readers can connect with her at jenniferhwestall.com or find her on Facebook and Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
April 1, 2015
I adore historical Christian fiction, so I was excited to read this. As I began reading, I was a bit skeptical as the beginning is a bit unusual, but almost instantly, I was definitely hooked. This doesn't have the typical "Christian" book pitfalls--no sugary-sweet romance and no Christian platitudes nor stuffing religion down the reader's throat. I was quite pleased to read a more realistic story that was well-written and kept my full attention along the way. Additionally, the faith of the characters was woven into the very heart of the story.
There is no content advisory for this book--it is truly Christian. Yes, bad things happen, including violence and racism, but nothing is graphically portrayed. I was intrigued to discover that the author had based this story somewhat on her grandmother's life--perhaps that is why the story was so captivating. Seeing the Depression through the eyes of Ruby was quite fascinating and gave me quite a different perspective on things. This is by far one of the best books I have read in awhile. Authentic and insipring! I sincerely hope to read more from this author very soon!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
There is no content advisory for this book--it is truly Christian. Yes, bad things happen, including violence and racism, but nothing is graphically portrayed. I was intrigued to discover that the author had based this story somewhat on her grandmother's life--perhaps that is why the story was so captivating. Seeing the Depression through the eyes of Ruby was quite fascinating and gave me quite a different perspective on things. This is by far one of the best books I have read in awhile. Authentic and insipring! I sincerely hope to read more from this author very soon!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
March 29, 2018
What an engrossing read! This went in directions I totally did not expect. The story turns around Ruby who is a feisty young girl who, when she believes something is right, moves heaven and earth to accomplish it. She is a well-rounded heroine - there is much to admire about Ruby but she is far from perfect and the developing relationship between her and Matthew is certainly an interesting aspect of this book although romance is really only a sideline feature and not really a thing at all.
Essentially this is a book written about an era of America that I am (as an Australian) am only familiar with through books - specifically Mildred D Taylor's. The extreme racism and fear of the time, the segregation, the depression and its gnawing effects - all of this is touched upon and experienced through this book. The canvas is bold here, the era evoked with all the pain it represented. And in the midst of this is Ruby with her bold insistence on doing right.
The main quibble I had with this book was the idea of Ruby having a healing gift. The way it was written about lacked authenticity to me - I felt like the author was describing something she'd never actually experienced, that she personally had never laid hands on someone and seen them healed and was therefore just imagining what it would be like to do. Consequently the healing gift is treated to some extent as being like a magical brand that sets the person apart from others rather it being a normal part of the everyday Christian life that you can lay hands on people and see them healed.
I also had a problem reconciling Ruby's spiritual life and her lack of God's conviction when she sinned. When you are attuned to God's presence you know when you do something blatantly wrong and you feel a strong sense of discomfort, whereas Ruby seemed to be able to lie, deceive her parents and disobey and it did not impact on her relationship with God.
This is in many ways an amazing, compelling story and it is interesting to have supernatural healing as being a major theme in a book. The other themes are also strong enough to carry the book if you have an issue with the spiritual aspects.
Essentially this is a book written about an era of America that I am (as an Australian) am only familiar with through books - specifically Mildred D Taylor's. The extreme racism and fear of the time, the segregation, the depression and its gnawing effects - all of this is touched upon and experienced through this book. The canvas is bold here, the era evoked with all the pain it represented. And in the midst of this is Ruby with her bold insistence on doing right.
The main quibble I had with this book was the idea of Ruby having a healing gift. The way it was written about lacked authenticity to me - I felt like the author was describing something she'd never actually experienced, that she personally had never laid hands on someone and seen them healed and was therefore just imagining what it would be like to do. Consequently the healing gift is treated to some extent as being like a magical brand that sets the person apart from others rather it being a normal part of the everyday Christian life that you can lay hands on people and see them healed.
I also had a problem reconciling Ruby's spiritual life and her lack of God's conviction when she sinned. When you are attuned to God's presence you know when you do something blatantly wrong and you feel a strong sense of discomfort, whereas Ruby seemed to be able to lie, deceive her parents and disobey and it did not impact on her relationship with God.
This is in many ways an amazing, compelling story and it is interesting to have supernatural healing as being a major theme in a book. The other themes are also strong enough to carry the book if you have an issue with the spiritual aspects.
October 31, 2014
I finished reading 'Healing Ruby' late last night and I have to say that it is definitely now in my list of top 20 books I have ever read, maybe even top 10. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect since it is a Christian book, however as the author has shown me once before with her book 'Love's Providence', Christian book's can be great reads! This story will take you back in time to the south when races were segregated and interacting with the opposite race brought on unimaginable consequences. Ruby, the story's main character, leads you through all her trials and tribulations of living life during this time period. It is nice to read about a young girl with such faith and determination that she disregards her own self in order to help others. I won't delve into the story to much because I personally like to experience books through my own eyes and not another readers. However, I will say that not reading this book is an injustice to yourself (READ IT!!). It is beautifully written and I can't wait to see what Mrs. Westall has in store for us next.
January 13, 2015
Wonderful book, you won't be disappointed
I very rarely leave reviews, but felt compelled to write this one. This book is such an uplifting read, it makes one realize just what being a Christian should be.
I very rarely leave reviews, but felt compelled to write this one. This book is such an uplifting read, it makes one realize just what being a Christian should be.
March 19, 2015
I really liked the way the author used faith in this book. Ruby has had tragedy after tragedy and she debates with her own faith. There is also the faith that God will provide for us. Poverty also makes Ruby question her faith. I loved that the author started the book with the scripture 1 Corinthians 13:13 which states "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love". Unconditional love leads to faith and hope. Faith healing is not something that I have given my opinion on. However I do believe that God works in mysterious ways and miracles happy constantly. I also believe that faith is not very strong without doubt. The ending of the book was nice because Ruby was looking towards her future. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
December 19, 2016
An Amazing historical fiction book! Thank you Jennifer for such an enjoyable, yet deeply thought-provoking book!
Healing Ruby addresses: race relations- healthy relationships vs segregation; religious matters - religion vs spirit-led walk; healing- healing by man vs healing by God; justice vs injustice; poverty vs wealth; goodness vs hate; human interactions- treating people through eyes of judgement vs compassion, kindness and basic human dignity.
This book was so well written, it is hard to describe. It gently led me along, then slowly pulled me in, then it picked up the pace until I was on the edge of my seat. I kept guessing the end, but a new development would surprise me. Yet, the whole time, it wasn't pure entertainment or fictional fluff. No, it was deeply thought provoking! I am examining my human relationships, my church relationships and even my own thought processes to see if they align with the Word of God or with culture. Yet, I was never preached at once. No, I was gently led to what turned out to be a HUGE mirror that reflected our society during the Depression of the 1930’s and in some instances, it is a reflection of our society even now.
I found this book on Amazon because it was free. I am so pleased! What a wonderful writer Jennifer Westall is! I am looking forward to reading more of her books. Highly recommended!
Healing Ruby addresses: race relations- healthy relationships vs segregation; religious matters - religion vs spirit-led walk; healing- healing by man vs healing by God; justice vs injustice; poverty vs wealth; goodness vs hate; human interactions- treating people through eyes of judgement vs compassion, kindness and basic human dignity.
This book was so well written, it is hard to describe. It gently led me along, then slowly pulled me in, then it picked up the pace until I was on the edge of my seat. I kept guessing the end, but a new development would surprise me. Yet, the whole time, it wasn't pure entertainment or fictional fluff. No, it was deeply thought provoking! I am examining my human relationships, my church relationships and even my own thought processes to see if they align with the Word of God or with culture. Yet, I was never preached at once. No, I was gently led to what turned out to be a HUGE mirror that reflected our society during the Depression of the 1930’s and in some instances, it is a reflection of our society even now.
I found this book on Amazon because it was free. I am so pleased! What a wonderful writer Jennifer Westall is! I am looking forward to reading more of her books. Highly recommended!
March 11, 2015
I am not what one would call a reader of religious genre, but I have read and enjoyed Amish novels now and again.
I enjoy both the time period this book is written about, the 1930s, depression era, and storys taking place in
small rural communities.
The interpersonal dynamics, family relationships and even class characterizations make for excellent reading.
This book reads like a visit with good friends. The charachters are well developed. The storyline is endearing.
There is a mystery behind some of the emotions and interactions.
I like that there is discussion and disagreement with some of the religious viewpoints.
Ruby is very strong and stubborn, in a good way, and is at an age where life is full of changes.
Sadly, one of the changes is losing her father and watching a friend's brother suffer from a debilitating illness.
Even the addition of an Uncle she never really knew is a major change to her life.
This story will entertain you and make you think about your own beliefs.
It has so many layers to it.
I did receive this book in exchange for my honest opinion
I enjoy both the time period this book is written about, the 1930s, depression era, and storys taking place in
small rural communities.
The interpersonal dynamics, family relationships and even class characterizations make for excellent reading.
This book reads like a visit with good friends. The charachters are well developed. The storyline is endearing.
There is a mystery behind some of the emotions and interactions.
I like that there is discussion and disagreement with some of the religious viewpoints.
Ruby is very strong and stubborn, in a good way, and is at an age where life is full of changes.
Sadly, one of the changes is losing her father and watching a friend's brother suffer from a debilitating illness.
Even the addition of an Uncle she never really knew is a major change to her life.
This story will entertain you and make you think about your own beliefs.
It has so many layers to it.
I did receive this book in exchange for my honest opinion
March 3, 2015
Great book!!! I cannot wait until the next one comes out!
October 30, 2015
Loved this book
Wow, what a great read. Told from a young girl's perspective. The book took me on a journey of my own faith. Causing me to think about how we trust in God and what "gifts" we all have but maybe never venture out to use them. So loved being with Ruby and her incredible spirit for standing up for what is right. Awesome writing, can't wait for volume 2.
Wow, what a great read. Told from a young girl's perspective. The book took me on a journey of my own faith. Causing me to think about how we trust in God and what "gifts" we all have but maybe never venture out to use them. So loved being with Ruby and her incredible spirit for standing up for what is right. Awesome writing, can't wait for volume 2.
February 12, 2017
Found this engrossing. Deeply Christian with a good amount of 'hard to believe', requiring faith. Great characters, very inspiring and challenging. I finished this at 1 in the morning only to find there was a sequel which I was glad to be able to immediately download on my Kindle.
March 27, 2015
Healing Ruby
About the Book:
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen..."
Ruby Graves, a young girl in Depression-era Alabama, faces the hardships of poverty and loss with as much faith as she can muster. At only the age of thirteen, she’s already lost a younger brother to illness, and now faces losing both her father and the boy who’s stealing her heart to illnesses as well. Armed with her beloved Scriptures, she prays daily for their healing, only to have her tender faith shattered by her father’s death.
Through her pain, she’s able to connect with her long-lost Uncle Asa, who’s mere presence at his brother’s funeral brings murmurs of a scandalous past involving her parents and a prominent local pastor, Irwin Cass. When Ruby discovers that one of Asa’a many secrets is an ability to heal, and that she may be next in line for the “gift,” she vows to find the faith that has eluded her so far, a faith that could mean never losing loved ones again.
But faith and doubt can’t reside in the same heart, not according to her father, and doubt is Ruby’s constant companion. As she struggles to find the true meaning of faith, she’s opposed at every turn by the pastor who would see her family destroyed and a community that can’t see deeper than the color of one’s skin. Through her search for a faith that could move mountains and a true understanding of her gift, can Ruby trust in a God that may require the ultimate sacrifice?
About the Author:
Jennifer Westall dives into Christian characters to explore her own questions of faith. Inspired by the life of her grandmother, Healing Ruby (2014) is the first in the Healing Ruby series, which delves into the mysteries of faith healing. She's also the author of Love's Providence (2012), a contemporary Christian romance that navigates the minefield of dating and temptation. She resides in southwest Texas with her husband and two boys, where she homeschools by day and writes by night, thus explaining those pesky bags under her eyes.
My Review:
Depression-era Alabama is full of secrets and illnesses. I was amazed at all the issues during that time noted in the book. 13 year old Ruby Graves feels like she is at the center of it all. Having already lost her baby brother to an illness, she learns her father is dying as well. Prayer seems to be the only solution. When the boy that she has grown to love is struck with an illness, Ruby pours all of her strength into prayers for ultimate healing for him.
Upon her fathers death, she is sent into a tailspin of grief, doubt, and despair. When her fathers brother Asa, shows up for her fathers funeral, talk begins about some past issues the family has had and Ruby intends on investigating to get down to the mystery herself. Ruby soon learns that her family is known for being able to heal people. Ruby isn't sure where these healing powers come from but she is dead set on helping her friend and finding out this information gives her even more confidence in her prayers.
This story is a touching one and reading about Alabama motivated me to want to read this book because I live in Alabama and have my whole life. I loved reading about Depression-era Alabama and learning about Ruby. She was an exceptional character and full of spunk!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Pump Up Your Book.
About the Book:
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen..."
Ruby Graves, a young girl in Depression-era Alabama, faces the hardships of poverty and loss with as much faith as she can muster. At only the age of thirteen, she’s already lost a younger brother to illness, and now faces losing both her father and the boy who’s stealing her heart to illnesses as well. Armed with her beloved Scriptures, she prays daily for their healing, only to have her tender faith shattered by her father’s death.
Through her pain, she’s able to connect with her long-lost Uncle Asa, who’s mere presence at his brother’s funeral brings murmurs of a scandalous past involving her parents and a prominent local pastor, Irwin Cass. When Ruby discovers that one of Asa’a many secrets is an ability to heal, and that she may be next in line for the “gift,” she vows to find the faith that has eluded her so far, a faith that could mean never losing loved ones again.
But faith and doubt can’t reside in the same heart, not according to her father, and doubt is Ruby’s constant companion. As she struggles to find the true meaning of faith, she’s opposed at every turn by the pastor who would see her family destroyed and a community that can’t see deeper than the color of one’s skin. Through her search for a faith that could move mountains and a true understanding of her gift, can Ruby trust in a God that may require the ultimate sacrifice?
About the Author:
Jennifer Westall dives into Christian characters to explore her own questions of faith. Inspired by the life of her grandmother, Healing Ruby (2014) is the first in the Healing Ruby series, which delves into the mysteries of faith healing. She's also the author of Love's Providence (2012), a contemporary Christian romance that navigates the minefield of dating and temptation. She resides in southwest Texas with her husband and two boys, where she homeschools by day and writes by night, thus explaining those pesky bags under her eyes.
My Review:
Depression-era Alabama is full of secrets and illnesses. I was amazed at all the issues during that time noted in the book. 13 year old Ruby Graves feels like she is at the center of it all. Having already lost her baby brother to an illness, she learns her father is dying as well. Prayer seems to be the only solution. When the boy that she has grown to love is struck with an illness, Ruby pours all of her strength into prayers for ultimate healing for him.
Upon her fathers death, she is sent into a tailspin of grief, doubt, and despair. When her fathers brother Asa, shows up for her fathers funeral, talk begins about some past issues the family has had and Ruby intends on investigating to get down to the mystery herself. Ruby soon learns that her family is known for being able to heal people. Ruby isn't sure where these healing powers come from but she is dead set on helping her friend and finding out this information gives her even more confidence in her prayers.
This story is a touching one and reading about Alabama motivated me to want to read this book because I live in Alabama and have my whole life. I loved reading about Depression-era Alabama and learning about Ruby. She was an exceptional character and full of spunk!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Pump Up Your Book.
June 26, 2016
Amazing and awesome read! Loved the flow of the book and how it kept me intrigued. Its is a heartwarming and heartbreaking coming of age story based in the depression era. Loved that even though it was based in this time period that it was very relatable and (with a few differences) could be placed in any time period. This was the first book that I have read from this author and can't wait to read more from this series and from this author. The audiobook was awesome to listen too as well!
September 3, 2016
Ruby Graves, a young girl in Depression-era Alabama, faces the hardships of poverty and loss with as much faith as she can muster. At only thirteen she’s already lost a younger brother, and now faces losing both her father and the boy who’s stealing her heart as well. Armed with her beloved Scriptures, she prays daily for their healing, only to have her tender faith shattered.
Great Christian fiction that will have lots of issues to discuss at book club.
Great Christian fiction that will have lots of issues to discuss at book club.
February 1, 2017
I thought this book was fantastic! It was well written and had some great scripture in it. The only thing that really bothered me was Ruby's "gift". I'm not sure how scriptural this gift is. I think any believer can do that. And Faith is not everything. Our works are the fruit of our faith. Most biblical believers will understand what I mean. But don't let that stop you from reading the book. It is very good.
October 29, 2016
finished this book in days
downloaded the next one immediately at last word of book
downloaded the next one immediately at last word of book
April 8, 2018
A lot of lessons to take away from this poignant story. Highly recommend it.
November 30, 2017
Although I'm a Christian, I don't read a lot of Christian fiction as I often find it a bit preachy. However, this is the second book of Christian fiction I've read in the last few days, and I must say, I found it enjoyable, exciting and uplifting. I actually ordered the boxed set in the series and I will be reading the rest with every expectation of enjoyment.
June 28, 2020
4.5/4.7 stars
I really enjoyed this book. And I got me some Jesus 🙌🙏😇 while reading it!
I really enjoyed this book. And I got me some Jesus 🙌🙏😇 while reading it!
November 17, 2017
3.5 stars
June 17, 2018
LOVED IT!!! I’m already starting Book 2 ❤️
May 13, 2016
This is an interesting story of Ruby, 14-year-old girl with tremendous compassion. Ruby befriended Mary a wealthier popular girl. Mary's brother (a basketball superstar) developed tuberculosis. Ruby chose to help the family out by keeping his room sterile and being like a nurse to him as he coughed blood. He was concerned that she would catch it, but not only was she sure that wouldn't happen, but she was sure he would be healed.
When The Depression hit and her father's business was failing, rather than wallowing in her losses, she was compassionate toward all people.
Eventually the family lost everything, but this didn't stop her from showing kindness toward a starving black family, even though it wasn't popular to do so at that time. Her family had very little, but what she could offer them, and get from the soup kitchen to help that starving family out, was a mission for her.
But what was truly remarkable about Ruby was her ability to pray, and to understand the power of God to heal. God used her in some amazing ways for such a young girl.
The story is also about the relationship that developed between the boy with tuberculosis, whom she cared for, his complete healing, and his assistance with her mission.
Very good book, very well written. Totally worth the read.
When The Depression hit and her father's business was failing, rather than wallowing in her losses, she was compassionate toward all people.
Eventually the family lost everything, but this didn't stop her from showing kindness toward a starving black family, even though it wasn't popular to do so at that time. Her family had very little, but what she could offer them, and get from the soup kitchen to help that starving family out, was a mission for her.
But what was truly remarkable about Ruby was her ability to pray, and to understand the power of God to heal. God used her in some amazing ways for such a young girl.
The story is also about the relationship that developed between the boy with tuberculosis, whom she cared for, his complete healing, and his assistance with her mission.
Very good book, very well written. Totally worth the read.
January 4, 2017
4.5 STARS
I really enjoyed this book. There was a great development of characters and the direction of the story surprised me in a good way. It was also good to read a book that explored a gift of the Holy Spirit and while my experience of healing hasn't been what was described in the book, I did find it very interesting.
I loved the following sentences/paragraphs:
"His eyes met James', and they exchanged a look that held a month's worth of arguments in it."
"Healing isn't just about the miraculous moment. Most times, God will work through you to heal someone's soul before he heals them physically. The physical healing is temporary and only a means for God to express his love for us. It's never meant to stand on its own. It's always coupled with spiritual healing in some way, even if you're unaware of it." - Great way of expressing a complex idea!
"How was I ever going to get over him if I kept feeding that darn hope beast inside me?" - Ha, love it!
"Faith isn't the act of believing hard enough that God will do what you want him to. It's believing that no matter what happens, God is good, and his mercy is deeper than any ocean."
A great read!
I really enjoyed this book. There was a great development of characters and the direction of the story surprised me in a good way. It was also good to read a book that explored a gift of the Holy Spirit and while my experience of healing hasn't been what was described in the book, I did find it very interesting.
I loved the following sentences/paragraphs:
"His eyes met James', and they exchanged a look that held a month's worth of arguments in it."
"Healing isn't just about the miraculous moment. Most times, God will work through you to heal someone's soul before he heals them physically. The physical healing is temporary and only a means for God to express his love for us. It's never meant to stand on its own. It's always coupled with spiritual healing in some way, even if you're unaware of it." - Great way of expressing a complex idea!
"How was I ever going to get over him if I kept feeding that darn hope beast inside me?" - Ha, love it!
"Faith isn't the act of believing hard enough that God will do what you want him to. It's believing that no matter what happens, God is good, and his mercy is deeper than any ocean."
A great read!
June 25, 2017
Such a wonderful novel. Very refreshing writing style that is like poetry - smooth and heartfelt.
I had no idea what to expect as I don't typically read the back cover blurb as some give too much of the story away. The characters of this book come to life as the author takes us back to the Great Depression. We follow Ruby Graves and her family as they face extremely tough times. So much heartache and loss strikes Ruby and her struggles are real. Fortunately, she is a strong teen that has a faith that was instilled by her father.
There is so much I would love to comment on regarding how much I enjoyed specific aspects of the story, but I don't want to spoil any of it by giving away any details.
I will say, that if you enjoy the Depression era, you will want to read this novel. Just a word of warning - you won't want to put it down for a minute. It's a super read!
I received a copy of Healing Ruby from the author. I was not required to write a review. These are my honest feelings about this terrific book therefore am honored to highly recommend this novel.
I had no idea what to expect as I don't typically read the back cover blurb as some give too much of the story away. The characters of this book come to life as the author takes us back to the Great Depression. We follow Ruby Graves and her family as they face extremely tough times. So much heartache and loss strikes Ruby and her struggles are real. Fortunately, she is a strong teen that has a faith that was instilled by her father.
There is so much I would love to comment on regarding how much I enjoyed specific aspects of the story, but I don't want to spoil any of it by giving away any details.
I will say, that if you enjoy the Depression era, you will want to read this novel. Just a word of warning - you won't want to put it down for a minute. It's a super read!
I received a copy of Healing Ruby from the author. I was not required to write a review. These are my honest feelings about this terrific book therefore am honored to highly recommend this novel.
February 24, 2016
I really enjoyed reading Healing Ruby by Jennifer Westall, this book kept my attention making it hard for me to find a stopping point each day, even at the end of a chapter my eyes just continued to follow right into the next.
Ruby Graves is a thirteen year old young lady struggling with life in depression era Alabama, through sickness and deaths she learns to cope with a God given gift she does not quite understand, holding true to her faith she continues to study the scriptures and learn how they guide us through life.
Healing Ruby is a well written story of Gods grace and lessons given during hard times, all of the characters are well developed and I look forward to reading more from Jennifer Westall to see where these peoples lives go from here.
Ruby Graves is a thirteen year old young lady struggling with life in depression era Alabama, through sickness and deaths she learns to cope with a God given gift she does not quite understand, holding true to her faith she continues to study the scriptures and learn how they guide us through life.
Healing Ruby is a well written story of Gods grace and lessons given during hard times, all of the characters are well developed and I look forward to reading more from Jennifer Westall to see where these peoples lives go from here.
May 2, 2016
Wonderful thought provoking book
I loved reading this book. The characters were very real and I loved the faith and determination of young Ruby even in the face of odds that seemed insurmountable. I felt like I was right there encouraging Matthew and telling not to lose faith when all seemed lost. I liked this book so much that immediately went out and purchased the next book in the series.
I loved reading this book. The characters were very real and I loved the faith and determination of young Ruby even in the face of odds that seemed insurmountable. I felt like I was right there encouraging Matthew and telling not to lose faith when all seemed lost. I liked this book so much that immediately went out and purchased the next book in the series.
August 28, 2021
Now this book grabbed me immediately and I haven't been able to put it down since I started it. It's definitely a Christian book and God is an important part of the story. The only negative is that it is a bit of a cliffhanger. I feel badly calling it that though when it might be more accurate to say it's just that you don't want it to end. I do wish I could get the rest of the series.
July 12, 2016
Really enjoyed this book!
I liked watching Ruby grow in her faith - by learning how to put her trust in God. I would definitely recommend this book and will look for more by this author.
I liked watching Ruby grow in her faith - by learning how to put her trust in God. I would definitely recommend this book and will look for more by this author.
August 9, 2016
I stayed up until 2 am because I couldn't put it down. After the story ended I couldn't stop thinking about it... Great read!
May 26, 2017
one of my all time favorite series!!!
April 29, 2020
A great historical read. Deep theme that stirs emotion and conviction. Loved it so much!
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