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Once Upon a Western #4
My Rock and My Refuge: A Beauty and the Beast Retelling
Beauty and the Beast... re-imagined
Marta knows she shouldn't feel this way toward Mr. Wendell. She needs to keep her job as his servant, especially because her family back in Germany depends on the money she and her brother Jakob send home. Marta's new feelings can't be as important as helping her family save their bakery, can they?
Marta doesn't want to believe the rumors that Mr. Wendell profited from another's tragedy to gain his wealth. Although his face bears terrible scars, she sees past them to his kind and generous heart. Still, she wonders why he never leaves his big house high in the Colorado mountains. Does he hide himself away because of his disfigured face, or because he has a guilty conscience?
While Marta tries to push away her questions, others are determined to find answers. Their efforts lead to a fresh tragedy that threatens Marta's hope of finding happiness with Mr. Wendell. Will Marta fail her family and her new friends, or will God bless her efforts to build a happy future for them all?
Marta knows she shouldn't feel this way toward Mr. Wendell. She needs to keep her job as his servant, especially because her family back in Germany depends on the money she and her brother Jakob send home. Marta's new feelings can't be as important as helping her family save their bakery, can they?
Marta doesn't want to believe the rumors that Mr. Wendell profited from another's tragedy to gain his wealth. Although his face bears terrible scars, she sees past them to his kind and generous heart. Still, she wonders why he never leaves his big house high in the Colorado mountains. Does he hide himself away because of his disfigured face, or because he has a guilty conscience?
While Marta tries to push away her questions, others are determined to find answers. Their efforts lead to a fresh tragedy that threatens Marta's hope of finding happiness with Mr. Wendell. Will Marta fail her family and her new friends, or will God bless her efforts to build a happy future for them all?
508 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2022
3 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Kovaciny
26 books209 followersBorn only a few miles from where Jesse James robbed his first train, Rachel Kovaciny has loved the Old West all her life. She spends her days telling stories to her husband and their three homeschooled children. In her free time, Rachel writes a column on Old West history for the Prairie Times, reads, blogs, watches movies, and daydreams.
Visit www.rachelkovaciny.com to sign up for Rachel Kovaciny’s newsletter and receive a FREE copy of her Sleeping Beauty retelling, the novella The Man on the Buckskin Horse.
Visit www.rachelkovaciny.com to sign up for Rachel Kovaciny’s newsletter and receive a FREE copy of her Sleeping Beauty retelling, the novella The Man on the Buckskin Horse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 10, 2024
FAIRY TALE: Beauty and the Beast.
TYPE OF RETELLING: Thematic retelling.
ELEMENTS, PLOT, THEME: Theme.
CORE THEME: Present.
OTHER INFLUENCES: "jane Eyre."
BEAUTY OR BEAST?: Beauty.
ROSES: 🌹🌹🌹🌹
Although this is meant to be a non-fantasy and non-magic retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," it has more of Jane Eyre than it does of the fairy tale. At least, it'll feel so if you're familiar with or a fan of the Charlotte Brontë novel, because then the elements are very obvious and the fairy tale's elements take a backseat to the novel's.
And that is, for me, the reason I didn't enjoy this fourth installment in the Once Upon a Western series of retellings as much as I did all the other retellings. I have never cared for Jane Eyre: I don't like the romance, I don't like the characters, and the plot leaves me indifferent; it's as simple as that. I'm aware that it is a popular classic, and so my reaction won't be the same for other readers that might pick this up, who might love this book precisely for this reason, so don't let my aversion to Jane Eyre put you off this novel. I'm highlighting this here because this is my personal reaction and because there's always one more person out there that will think the same.
The second reason I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped is Marta Beckmann, the Beauty in this story. I get that she is very devout and that faith is key to her character, but dear me, is she one sanctimonious prig at times! Others will call this book "preachy" because they will mix the character with the plot, and I will strongly disagree with that. This novel isn't and has never been preachy, the rest of the characters in the book aren't thumping Bibles and being all pious and preachy. They are normal people with regular levels of piety. It's Marta alone, it's always been Marta alone. And because the entirety of the book is told from her POV, it bleeds over and gives that "preachy" impression. But when you look closely at Jakob, Mrs Craig, Arthur, the Lings, etc., you notice none of them are like Marta when it comes to religion. She's that kind of Christian many of us know well and detest. At least me, coming from a multi-denominational environment that ranged from the very pious ones to the cultural Christmas-and-Easter-Christians, I have a strong aversion to this kind of believer, so I couldn't help but react negatively to Marta.
Doesn't help that she's a stubborn mule, in true German fashion. And I say it lovingly, having enough stubborn German mules in my circle whose stubbornness is both a delight and a trial. I rather like that trait in her, the line separating resilience from stubbornness isn't that thick.
Now that the negatives are out, on to the positives!
First, the setting. This takes place in a mining town in Colorado in... what year was it? I'm imagining it's post-1870 based solely on the fact that Jakob is a veteran of "the war" in Germany, which I have to assume means the Franco-Prussian War as the dates seem to add up. I do wish Rachel was clear with the dates in this book, as it reads like pure historical fiction so having a date helps place this in time as well as in a location. Said town is abandoned now, but nearby there's another and also nearby there's a big house owned by Arthur Wendell, our Beast, where the Beckmann siblings find a job through a bit of trickery. The Jane Eyre fans will find plenty of homages and inspirations in this house and its owner, but I personally liked the towns better, especially the abandoned one that reminds me of certain places I used to play at. The setting being small, the community is tightly-knit, you'll see everyone that matters in town, from the sheriff to the laundrywomen. It feels lived in and active, unlike a lot of Westerns that seem to unfold around four houses in the main street. I liked the parts that involved mining, too, including the all-too-common mine collapses.
Then there's the diversity of characters. The author knows the West well and knows it wasn't an all-white place. In her retellings, we've seen black pioneers before, and here we have the immigrants, both white and non-white. There's Germans, Eastern Europeans (Ivan), Chinese, etc. The Lings are supposed to encapsulate the experience of the Chinese and the discrimination they faced. I'm wondering if there'll be Hispanics and Native Americans, too, in future retellings, because at this point only those demographics are missing to complete the picture of the Wild West.
Then there's the characters. Arthur Wendell was a bit too Rochester for me so he didn't fully win me over, but I loved Jakob. He's quite the contrast to his stiff-backed and pious sister, more relaxed, impish, and lovable. But although he was my favourite, I liked all the characters save for the girl protagonist. Even Wendell. I would love for Jakob to get his own retelling, although I'm drawing up blank at what tale would suit him. Will have to think it over. However, I can see the faint smell of PTSD from whichever war he fought at (I'm still betting you a brötchen it's the Franco-Prussian one) and losing the woman he loved, which would be worth exploring.
And finally, the relationship. I have to say that, for all that I'm no fan of the girl protagonist and only moderately so of the boy protagonist, the relationship Rachel Kovaciny wrote for them is a healthy one. Yeah, it's fast and a bit of a love-at-first-sight goes on there, but let's be real: this is a young and healthy male and this is a pretty girl, it'd be surprising if sparks didn't fly! The healthiness comes from neither of them playing stupid games, having stupid misunderstandings but clarifying them quickly instead of using them for drama, respecting each other's decisions, and being true to their time. They follow their time's conventions on courting, on social standing, etc. And Arthur, for all that he's a man of his times, is also sensible and doesn't discourage Marta's wish to keep her bakery. Man knows how to let talent flourish.
I'm not used to seeing Beauty & Beast retellings with healthy relationships. It's not as frequent as you might think, because this tale attracts a lot of retakes with toxic masculinity and toxic relationships, and lots and lots of Stockholm Syndrome blather. So, having a retelling in which they're sensible adults and develop a normal and positive relationship is, to me, the highlight of the book.
Did I say that the characters reflect their place in life and time? You'll notice that the narrator, Marta, doesn't always speak correct English. Lest you think that is a mistake or an unedited copy you got, let me tell you it's done on purpose. Marta's been in the US just for a year or so, hence her English isn't so fluent. If you speak German, you'll probably notice amusing bits that remind you of how German sentence structure works; it was very entertaining to spot these for me. Also, props to Rachel for not doing the hated "self-translation" every author and their dog do these days!
And before I forget, thank goodness that this author did the Scarred Hero trope right! No sexy scars that are there like face decorations! It's my most hated trope for B&B retellings specifically, and this one avoided it.
So you now see why I did love this book in spite of Marta, nein? It's a worthy addition to the series, and in any case it's hard to beat the high bar the previous books set.
I received an ARC from the author & publisher, who didn't request a review from me and stated it wasn't required. I leave this review voluntarily.
TYPE OF RETELLING: Thematic retelling.
ELEMENTS, PLOT, THEME: Theme.
CORE THEME: Present.
OTHER INFLUENCES: "jane Eyre."
BEAUTY OR BEAST?: Beauty.
ROSES: 🌹🌹🌹🌹
Although this is meant to be a non-fantasy and non-magic retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," it has more of Jane Eyre than it does of the fairy tale. At least, it'll feel so if you're familiar with or a fan of the Charlotte Brontë novel, because then the elements are very obvious and the fairy tale's elements take a backseat to the novel's.
And that is, for me, the reason I didn't enjoy this fourth installment in the Once Upon a Western series of retellings as much as I did all the other retellings. I have never cared for Jane Eyre: I don't like the romance, I don't like the characters, and the plot leaves me indifferent; it's as simple as that. I'm aware that it is a popular classic, and so my reaction won't be the same for other readers that might pick this up, who might love this book precisely for this reason, so don't let my aversion to Jane Eyre put you off this novel. I'm highlighting this here because this is my personal reaction and because there's always one more person out there that will think the same.
The second reason I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped is Marta Beckmann, the Beauty in this story. I get that she is very devout and that faith is key to her character, but dear me, is she one sanctimonious prig at times! Others will call this book "preachy" because they will mix the character with the plot, and I will strongly disagree with that. This novel isn't and has never been preachy, the rest of the characters in the book aren't thumping Bibles and being all pious and preachy. They are normal people with regular levels of piety. It's Marta alone, it's always been Marta alone. And because the entirety of the book is told from her POV, it bleeds over and gives that "preachy" impression. But when you look closely at Jakob, Mrs Craig, Arthur, the Lings, etc., you notice none of them are like Marta when it comes to religion. She's that kind of Christian many of us know well and detest. At least me, coming from a multi-denominational environment that ranged from the very pious ones to the cultural Christmas-and-Easter-Christians, I have a strong aversion to this kind of believer, so I couldn't help but react negatively to Marta.
Doesn't help that she's a stubborn mule, in true German fashion. And I say it lovingly, having enough stubborn German mules in my circle whose stubbornness is both a delight and a trial. I rather like that trait in her, the line separating resilience from stubbornness isn't that thick.
Now that the negatives are out, on to the positives!
First, the setting. This takes place in a mining town in Colorado in... what year was it? I'm imagining it's post-1870 based solely on the fact that Jakob is a veteran of "the war" in Germany, which I have to assume means the Franco-Prussian War as the dates seem to add up. I do wish Rachel was clear with the dates in this book, as it reads like pure historical fiction so having a date helps place this in time as well as in a location. Said town is abandoned now, but nearby there's another and also nearby there's a big house owned by Arthur Wendell, our Beast, where the Beckmann siblings find a job through a bit of trickery. The Jane Eyre fans will find plenty of homages and inspirations in this house and its owner, but I personally liked the towns better, especially the abandoned one that reminds me of certain places I used to play at. The setting being small, the community is tightly-knit, you'll see everyone that matters in town, from the sheriff to the laundrywomen. It feels lived in and active, unlike a lot of Westerns that seem to unfold around four houses in the main street. I liked the parts that involved mining, too, including the all-too-common mine collapses.
Then there's the diversity of characters. The author knows the West well and knows it wasn't an all-white place. In her retellings, we've seen black pioneers before, and here we have the immigrants, both white and non-white. There's Germans, Eastern Europeans (Ivan), Chinese, etc. The Lings are supposed to encapsulate the experience of the Chinese and the discrimination they faced. I'm wondering if there'll be Hispanics and Native Americans, too, in future retellings, because at this point only those demographics are missing to complete the picture of the Wild West.
Then there's the characters. Arthur Wendell was a bit too Rochester for me so he didn't fully win me over, but I loved Jakob. He's quite the contrast to his stiff-backed and pious sister, more relaxed, impish, and lovable. But although he was my favourite, I liked all the characters save for the girl protagonist. Even Wendell. I would love for Jakob to get his own retelling, although I'm drawing up blank at what tale would suit him. Will have to think it over. However, I can see the faint smell of PTSD from whichever war he fought at (I'm still betting you a brötchen it's the Franco-Prussian one) and losing the woman he loved, which would be worth exploring.
And finally, the relationship. I have to say that, for all that I'm no fan of the girl protagonist and only moderately so of the boy protagonist, the relationship Rachel Kovaciny wrote for them is a healthy one. Yeah, it's fast and a bit of a love-at-first-sight goes on there, but let's be real: this is a young and healthy male and this is a pretty girl, it'd be surprising if sparks didn't fly! The healthiness comes from neither of them playing stupid games, having stupid misunderstandings but clarifying them quickly instead of using them for drama, respecting each other's decisions, and being true to their time. They follow their time's conventions on courting, on social standing, etc. And Arthur, for all that he's a man of his times, is also sensible and doesn't discourage Marta's wish to keep her bakery. Man knows how to let talent flourish.
I'm not used to seeing Beauty & Beast retellings with healthy relationships. It's not as frequent as you might think, because this tale attracts a lot of retakes with toxic masculinity and toxic relationships, and lots and lots of Stockholm Syndrome blather. So, having a retelling in which they're sensible adults and develop a normal and positive relationship is, to me, the highlight of the book.
Did I say that the characters reflect their place in life and time? You'll notice that the narrator, Marta, doesn't always speak correct English. Lest you think that is a mistake or an unedited copy you got, let me tell you it's done on purpose. Marta's been in the US just for a year or so, hence her English isn't so fluent. If you speak German, you'll probably notice amusing bits that remind you of how German sentence structure works; it was very entertaining to spot these for me. Also, props to Rachel for not doing the hated "self-translation" every author and their dog do these days!
And before I forget, thank goodness that this author did the Scarred Hero trope right! No sexy scars that are there like face decorations! It's my most hated trope for B&B retellings specifically, and this one avoided it.
So you now see why I did love this book in spite of Marta, nein? It's a worthy addition to the series, and in any case it's hard to beat the high bar the previous books set.
I received an ARC from the author & publisher, who didn't request a review from me and stated it wasn't required. I leave this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2022
4.5 stars
My Rock and My Refuge is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, and it was a lot of fun seeing all the different ways that aspects of the fairytale were incorporated. The stolen rose, the magical mirror, [Disney] Belle’s love of reading (which is uniquely subverted in this retelling), a painting of the Beast, helpful servants, a curse (of sorts), and so on.
Additionally, My Rock and My Refuge contains elements of Jane Eyre. What those elements might be, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. (But there are no wives locked in attics, manipulative heroes, or St. Johns. So…not to worry! XD)
On that note, Marta Beckmann reminds me of an older Jane Eyre. But she’s also her own forthright person. Although Marta is usually right in her observations of people and situations, she’s not perfect—I absolutely loved how she realizes that she needs to depend on God at all times (instead of herself).
Arthur Wendell is the ‘Beast’ in this retelling, but he’s far from beastly. A little gruff at first, even rude. But he’s a good man at heart, something that quickly becomes clear. No, he doesn’t give Marta his library. But he gives her something even better—the means of learning how to read the books in his library. Wendell is deeply loyal to the people he cares for, and that soon includes Marta. Their romance is straightforward and sensible…but also swoon-worthy.
Speaking of swoon-worthy, Marta’s brother Jakob is a sweetheart. Stubborn, but a sweetheart. I agree with another reviewer who said that Jakob should get his own spin-off. I also liked Dan McLeod (Arthur’s friend), Mrs. Craig (Arthur’s housekeeper), Peter Craig (Chip? XD), the miners who buy Marta’s bread, the Lings (friends of Marta’s), and so on. One thing I appreciate about My Rock and My Refuge is that there’s plenty of conflict without anyone being nasty. (Well, with the exception of a few very minor, very racist characters.)
And last but not least, there’s Alex McLeod. He’s the ‘Gaston’ of My Rock and My Refuge (but not a villain). I have the biggest soft spot for Alex. He’s not-so-secretly my favorite character, bringing good days to his mother and buying Marta’s bread and going through the pain of suddenly being an only child instead of the youngest child. I think I’m probably in the minority when it comes to liking Alex, but that’s okay. 😉
My Rock and My Refuge is a Western, a romance, and a fairytale, all wrapped into one beautiful story. It’s like a loaf of good bread: warm, wholesome, and strengthening to the heart (see Psalm 104:15b). I think you’ll love it! I know I do.
My Rock and My Refuge is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, and it was a lot of fun seeing all the different ways that aspects of the fairytale were incorporated. The stolen rose, the magical mirror, [Disney] Belle’s love of reading (which is uniquely subverted in this retelling), a painting of the Beast, helpful servants, a curse (of sorts), and so on.
Additionally, My Rock and My Refuge contains elements of Jane Eyre. What those elements might be, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. (But there are no wives locked in attics, manipulative heroes, or St. Johns. So…not to worry! XD)
On that note, Marta Beckmann reminds me of an older Jane Eyre. But she’s also her own forthright person. Although Marta is usually right in her observations of people and situations, she’s not perfect—I absolutely loved how she realizes that she needs to depend on God at all times (instead of herself).
Arthur Wendell is the ‘Beast’ in this retelling, but he’s far from beastly. A little gruff at first, even rude. But he’s a good man at heart, something that quickly becomes clear. No, he doesn’t give Marta his library. But he gives her something even better—the means of learning how to read the books in his library. Wendell is deeply loyal to the people he cares for, and that soon includes Marta. Their romance is straightforward and sensible…but also swoon-worthy.
Speaking of swoon-worthy, Marta’s brother Jakob is a sweetheart. Stubborn, but a sweetheart. I agree with another reviewer who said that Jakob should get his own spin-off. I also liked Dan McLeod (Arthur’s friend), Mrs. Craig (Arthur’s housekeeper), Peter Craig (Chip? XD), the miners who buy Marta’s bread, the Lings (friends of Marta’s), and so on. One thing I appreciate about My Rock and My Refuge is that there’s plenty of conflict without anyone being nasty. (Well, with the exception of a few very minor, very racist characters.)
And last but not least, there’s Alex McLeod. He’s the ‘Gaston’ of My Rock and My Refuge (but not a villain). I have the biggest soft spot for Alex. He’s not-so-secretly my favorite character, bringing good days to his mother and buying Marta’s bread and going through the pain of suddenly being an only child instead of the youngest child. I think I’m probably in the minority when it comes to liking Alex, but that’s okay. 😉
My Rock and My Refuge is a Western, a romance, and a fairytale, all wrapped into one beautiful story. It’s like a loaf of good bread: warm, wholesome, and strengthening to the heart (see Psalm 104:15b). I think you’ll love it! I know I do.
November 10, 2022
A Beauty and the Beast retelling so clean and wholesome, your teen and mom can read it, with characters you want to spend time with, a message that makes you think, and a plot that’s never dull!
I appreciate books with likable characters that depend on external circumstances for the conflict. I appreciate books that break norms. And I appreciate books where adults act like adults.
I was sucked into Marta’s life as a servant in nineteenth century Colorado and found in her, like Jane Eyre, the heroine we all need. She’s conscientious and virtuous, both character traits we would do well to bring back into vogue. There are no perfect characters here, but there are characters who stand up for what they believe in and apologize when they’re wrong.
This book speaks to universal trials, weaknesses, and failings that apply to us today, couched in an attractive, fleshed-out setting. I was swept up in the story and satisfied at the end. My Rock and My Refuge is appealing and accessible to a wide range of readers, so I recommend grabbing a copy for yourself and a couple more as gifts for readers in your life.
I received an ecopy from the author to read in exchange for an honest review, but I also bought my own copy when I finished because I enjoyed it.
I appreciate books with likable characters that depend on external circumstances for the conflict. I appreciate books that break norms. And I appreciate books where adults act like adults.
I was sucked into Marta’s life as a servant in nineteenth century Colorado and found in her, like Jane Eyre, the heroine we all need. She’s conscientious and virtuous, both character traits we would do well to bring back into vogue. There are no perfect characters here, but there are characters who stand up for what they believe in and apologize when they’re wrong.
This book speaks to universal trials, weaknesses, and failings that apply to us today, couched in an attractive, fleshed-out setting. I was swept up in the story and satisfied at the end. My Rock and My Refuge is appealing and accessible to a wide range of readers, so I recommend grabbing a copy for yourself and a couple more as gifts for readers in your life.
I received an ecopy from the author to read in exchange for an honest review, but I also bought my own copy when I finished because I enjoyed it.
November 14, 2022
This was easily one of my most anticipated releases for the end of 2022, and I'm happy to say that it did not disappoint! This was 100% one of the healthiest takes on Beauty and the Beast I've ever read, and I loved it for that!
I'm a sucker for stories that are less about the world-shattering drama and more about the cozy feels. Just seeing characters in their day-to-day life, having conversations, learning to read, baking bread. I really feel like I got to know these characters, and it was wonderful. The sibling dynamic between Marta and Jakob was so sweet, and I will definitely be fangirling about Arthur Wendell for a good while, haha! (He's just... the best. I love him so much.)
While I did really like the faith content, there were times where Marta came off preachy, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment! Overall, this was just so precious and wholesome, and definitely one I recommend to fans of historical romance! 4.5 stars from me!
**I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
I'm a sucker for stories that are less about the world-shattering drama and more about the cozy feels. Just seeing characters in their day-to-day life, having conversations, learning to read, baking bread. I really feel like I got to know these characters, and it was wonderful. The sibling dynamic between Marta and Jakob was so sweet, and I will definitely be fangirling about Arthur Wendell for a good while, haha! (He's just... the best. I love him so much.)
While I did really like the faith content, there were times where Marta came off preachy, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment! Overall, this was just so precious and wholesome, and definitely one I recommend to fans of historical romance! 4.5 stars from me!
**I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
November 8, 2022
My Rock and My Refuge by Author Rachel Kovaciny is one of the best Beauty and the Beast retellings that I have read.
(I have read quite a few over the years)
I love how her retellings offer uplifting stories that contain good morals and strong elements of faith.
Her characters are believable and enduring, so you care about what happens to them.
She keeps everything clean and writes tales that would make fun read-aloud books for families with Jr. High and older children.
I enjoy how her Once Upon A Western sories are set in the old west and I recommend this one that is now available for you to purchase!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author. A review positive or otherwise was not required. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
(I have read quite a few over the years)
I love how her retellings offer uplifting stories that contain good morals and strong elements of faith.
Her characters are believable and enduring, so you care about what happens to them.
She keeps everything clean and writes tales that would make fun read-aloud books for families with Jr. High and older children.
I enjoy how her Once Upon A Western sories are set in the old west and I recommend this one that is now available for you to purchase!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author. A review positive or otherwise was not required. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
November 18, 2022
My Rock and My Refuge is the fourth installment of Rachel Kovaciny’s Once Upon a Western series of non-magical, historical fairy tale retellings. It’s a Beauty and the Beast story about a German immigrant who goes to work for a mysterious wealthy man in the Colorado mountains. As you can probably guess from the description, it has elements of Jane Eyre as well.
Everybody who knows me knows I don’t like Jane Eyre, and I’ve never really cared for Beauty and the Beast, either. But I was excited about My Rock and My Refuge as a female-centric Western exploring the immigrant experience, so I tried to approach it as its own story rather than comparing it to BatB or JE.
And it delivered! I loved the rich German culture permeating the story, especially the food. I loved how dedicated Marta was to recreating her beloved recipes even in such inhospitable surroundings. I loved how offended she was that Americans didn’t know how to bake proper bread, because a) FACTS and b) it’s good to see a protagonist who’s passionate about something concrete and useful, you know? My favorite part of the book was the scene where Marta begins selling her freshly-baked bread to the miners, and at first she’s not sure if she’ll have any customers, but then four brawny guys come running up like “BREAD LADY, WHERE’S THE BREAD LADY??” Adorable.
Speaking of immigrant experiences, I also appreciated the Chinese representation in My Rock and My Refuge. It was wonderful to see Chinese characters taking part in the everyday, ordinary life of a Western town and enjoying simple family pleasures, rather than exclusively appearing as victims in some lurid melodrama (the role Asian characters are often relegated to in Western stories).
Touching on the issue of faith content in this book, since it is a Christian novel, I will say Marta’s preachiness frustrated me at times. Marta is an opinionated, outspoken character, so it makes sense for her to be preachy, but the story never truly challenges her opinions. Her religious and moral beliefs are fully formed, and she’s vindicated in all of them by the narrative… every time she goes out of her way to scold or berate someone for doing what she sees as wrong, she always turns out to be right. Since no person can truly be right all the time, this rang a little “off” to me.
I didn’t cotton much to Marta’s love interest, Mr. Wendell. He struck me as moody and unpredictable, and I prefer my men more straightforward and easy to read. Now, am I likely to find sunny, straightforward gentlemen as the hero of a Beauty and the Beast retelling? No! But a girl can dream!
On the other hand, I actually liked the antagonist, Alex McLeod. I know, I know, I know. UTTERLY SHOCKING. My reputation as a man-hater is FOREVER RUINED. :-P But I appreciated Alex’s open and cheerful disposition and his willingness to share his ideas and plans instead of leaving people guessing. I’m going to horrify my friends still further by getting on my soapbox to defend Alex… I think he was treated a little unfairly by the narrative. It felt to me as if Alex were suddenly stripped of all his good qualities when Marta rejected him; and while I know guys can sometimes take a hard left turn into “a@@hole territory” due to romantic disappointment, I didn’t quite believe it for Alex. It didn’t seem real. Moreover, Alex ends the story in a very negative place—his final scene involves him being crushed and bitter for Spoiler Reasons and Marta scolding him harshly—and that didn’t feel fair, either. It left me wondering, is this really about Alex, or is it about Marta needing to be “right?”
Overall, though, My Rock and My Refuge gives a unique perspective on the Old West, and I recommend it to any lover of female-centric historical fiction… and any lover of homemade bread. 😉
Everybody who knows me knows I don’t like Jane Eyre, and I’ve never really cared for Beauty and the Beast, either. But I was excited about My Rock and My Refuge as a female-centric Western exploring the immigrant experience, so I tried to approach it as its own story rather than comparing it to BatB or JE.
And it delivered! I loved the rich German culture permeating the story, especially the food. I loved how dedicated Marta was to recreating her beloved recipes even in such inhospitable surroundings. I loved how offended she was that Americans didn’t know how to bake proper bread, because a) FACTS and b) it’s good to see a protagonist who’s passionate about something concrete and useful, you know? My favorite part of the book was the scene where Marta begins selling her freshly-baked bread to the miners, and at first she’s not sure if she’ll have any customers, but then four brawny guys come running up like “BREAD LADY, WHERE’S THE BREAD LADY??” Adorable.
Speaking of immigrant experiences, I also appreciated the Chinese representation in My Rock and My Refuge. It was wonderful to see Chinese characters taking part in the everyday, ordinary life of a Western town and enjoying simple family pleasures, rather than exclusively appearing as victims in some lurid melodrama (the role Asian characters are often relegated to in Western stories).
Touching on the issue of faith content in this book, since it is a Christian novel, I will say Marta’s preachiness frustrated me at times. Marta is an opinionated, outspoken character, so it makes sense for her to be preachy, but the story never truly challenges her opinions. Her religious and moral beliefs are fully formed, and she’s vindicated in all of them by the narrative… every time she goes out of her way to scold or berate someone for doing what she sees as wrong, she always turns out to be right. Since no person can truly be right all the time, this rang a little “off” to me.
I didn’t cotton much to Marta’s love interest, Mr. Wendell. He struck me as moody and unpredictable, and I prefer my men more straightforward and easy to read. Now, am I likely to find sunny, straightforward gentlemen as the hero of a Beauty and the Beast retelling? No! But a girl can dream!
On the other hand, I actually liked the antagonist, Alex McLeod. I know, I know, I know. UTTERLY SHOCKING. My reputation as a man-hater is FOREVER RUINED. :-P But I appreciated Alex’s open and cheerful disposition and his willingness to share his ideas and plans instead of leaving people guessing. I’m going to horrify my friends still further by getting on my soapbox to defend Alex… I think he was treated a little unfairly by the narrative. It felt to me as if Alex were suddenly stripped of all his good qualities when Marta rejected him; and while I know guys can sometimes take a hard left turn into “a@@hole territory” due to romantic disappointment, I didn’t quite believe it for Alex. It didn’t seem real. Moreover, Alex ends the story in a very negative place—his final scene involves him being crushed and bitter for Spoiler Reasons and Marta scolding him harshly—and that didn’t feel fair, either. It left me wondering, is this really about Alex, or is it about Marta needing to be “right?”
Overall, though, My Rock and My Refuge gives a unique perspective on the Old West, and I recommend it to any lover of female-centric historical fiction… and any lover of homemade bread. 😉
November 3, 2022
My Rock and Refuge is a sweet and poignant take on Beauty & the Beast. It flips some of the more tired and well-used tropes and turns what is usually somewhat of a toxic relationship into an applaudable romance. There's a certain maturity to the characters, that I haven’t seen in other adaptations.
Marta is a delight. A sweet but strong character, who is determined to stand on her own. Her love of baking and unbreakable spirit won me over immediately. I like how her being an immigrant and unable to read is handled, and how it also afforded her traits that are usually attributed to the beast role. An interesting subversion I wasn’t expecting. I love the dynamic it created.
Arthur is far less abrasive and off-putting than the usual takes I’ve seen. He’s guarded and standoffish, but by all accounts, a gentleman if not a misunderstood one. His quiet nature is a good match to Marta’s exuberant one. I also like how they bond through the mutual isolation they both feel due to their different situations.
I personally prefer my characters more flawed, and at times found it a bit preachy
but despite that, I enjoyed this story immensely. The characters are so vibrant and their chemistry leaps off the page. If you're looking for a clean, well-written romance, this is the one.
It’s super cozy as well, it has all the trappings of a Ghibli film. Will have you craving fresh bread and apple pie. I recommended baking before you read.
Marta is a delight. A sweet but strong character, who is determined to stand on her own. Her love of baking and unbreakable spirit won me over immediately. I like how her being an immigrant and unable to read is handled, and how it also afforded her traits that are usually attributed to the beast role. An interesting subversion I wasn’t expecting. I love the dynamic it created.
Arthur is far less abrasive and off-putting than the usual takes I’ve seen. He’s guarded and standoffish, but by all accounts, a gentleman if not a misunderstood one. His quiet nature is a good match to Marta’s exuberant one. I also like how they bond through the mutual isolation they both feel due to their different situations.
I personally prefer my characters more flawed, and at times found it a bit preachy
but despite that, I enjoyed this story immensely. The characters are so vibrant and their chemistry leaps off the page. If you're looking for a clean, well-written romance, this is the one.
It’s super cozy as well, it has all the trappings of a Ghibli film. Will have you craving fresh bread and apple pie. I recommended baking before you read.
November 2, 2022
full rtc. below is my draft o.o
Such a lovely and delightful and cozy story! For a Beauty and the Beast retelling (and a bit of Jane Eyre thrown in), it has a lot of original elements (honestly, how many times has it been retold in a Western setting??). Enough so that it feels like its own story. <33 Absolutely enjoyed all the baking and breads. This plot is certainly on the slower, domestic side of the scale since it focuses on life in the West (Colorado, in this case), but it's interesting to see things from Marta's perspective. I admire how she's an older heroine (back then, they'd likely have named her a spinster) who's not afraid to speak her own mind, and pray constantly while also reflecting and correcting herself and her relationship with God.
It took a bit of getting used to the writing, since it's in 1st person POV, and Marta's a German immigrant who's learning English. And as such, the syntax bothered me a bit until I realized the story is told from Marta and her level of English (vs. her native German).
I need more of Mr. Wendell. xD
Such a lovely and delightful and cozy story! For a Beauty and the Beast retelling (and a bit of Jane Eyre thrown in), it has a lot of original elements (honestly, how many times has it been retold in a Western setting??). Enough so that it feels like its own story. <33 Absolutely enjoyed all the baking and breads. This plot is certainly on the slower, domestic side of the scale since it focuses on life in the West (Colorado, in this case), but it's interesting to see things from Marta's perspective. I admire how she's an older heroine (back then, they'd likely have named her a spinster) who's not afraid to speak her own mind, and pray constantly while also reflecting and correcting herself and her relationship with God.
It took a bit of getting used to the writing, since it's in 1st person POV, and Marta's a German immigrant who's learning English. And as such, the syntax bothered me a bit until I realized the story is told from Marta and her level of English (vs. her native German).
I need more of Mr. Wendell. xD
Read
April 29, 2024Another satisfying installment of the Once Upon a Western fairy tale retellings, My Rock and My Refuge features my favorite love story in the series so far. It is what we could call swoon-worthy. 😉 Retelling the “Beauty and the Beast” romance can be tricky, but I genuinely loved what the author did with it here. Definitely the healthiest, most relaxed, most adorable take on the couple I’ve ever encountered. I won’t say too much here, because I don’t want to spoil the fun of experiencing it firsthand, but I loved how well-adjusted and forthright it was. There’s no pretense, there’s no melodrama; everyone is pretty upfront about how they’re feeling and what their intentions are, and it’s absolutely delightful.
Arthur (the Beast character) was definitely my favorite. I loved him. I liked Marta (the Beauty character) for the most part, although there were times when she became a touch preachy. I love that Ms. Kovaciny included Jakob, since the sibling elements of the story’s original iterations are too often left out of retellings.
There are so many “small” details in this book that elevate it so much: It’s told from Marta’s POV, and the flow of her narration is ever so slightly “foreign” (even when she’s describing her own headspace, her syntax isn’t quite what it would be for a native English speaker, which is such a clever way of fleshing out her immigrant experience). There are subtle nods to Jane Eyre to be found throughout the book if you look for them (and, lucky for me, I was looking for them 😉).
My primary complaint is that the faith content occasionally felt didactic. The characters’ strong personal relationships with God were actually refreshingly organic, but the discussions on various non-doctrinal points of Christian praxis (church attendance, etc.) often turned a little heavy-handed.
All in all, heartily recommend! Again, I don't want to spoil anything, so I'm not going to squeal over all my favorite bits, but make no mistake -- squealing could have happened. 😉
I received a free ARC of this book from the author. A positive review was not required.
Arthur (the Beast character) was definitely my favorite. I loved him. I liked Marta (the Beauty character) for the most part, although there were times when she became a touch preachy. I love that Ms. Kovaciny included Jakob, since the sibling elements of the story’s original iterations are too often left out of retellings.
There are so many “small” details in this book that elevate it so much: It’s told from Marta’s POV, and the flow of her narration is ever so slightly “foreign” (even when she’s describing her own headspace, her syntax isn’t quite what it would be for a native English speaker, which is such a clever way of fleshing out her immigrant experience). There are subtle nods to Jane Eyre to be found throughout the book if you look for them (and, lucky for me, I was looking for them 😉).
My primary complaint is that the faith content occasionally felt didactic. The characters’ strong personal relationships with God were actually refreshingly organic, but the discussions on various non-doctrinal points of Christian praxis (church attendance, etc.) often turned a little heavy-handed.
All in all, heartily recommend! Again, I don't want to spoil anything, so I'm not going to squeal over all my favorite bits, but make no mistake -- squealing could have happened. 😉
I received a free ARC of this book from the author. A positive review was not required.
October 30, 2022
Rachel’s latest installment in the Once Upon a Western series is a veritable feast of swoony romance, danger, theology… and bread. So much delicious bread, my mouth was watering from the descriptions! Her imaginative retelling of Beauty and the Beast was fresh and written in such a fun, organic way through Marta’s perspective. I loved how Rachel used this to explore life in America through an immigrant’s perspective, and it certainly made me feel like I knew all the characters personally. My Rock and My Refuge contains many discussion-rich themes of vocation, the theology of the cross, prayer and one’s daily faith life, self-image and worth, and the intersection of mining, racism, and the immigrant experience in the Old West.
It was so refreshing to read a novel with Christian characters who are unashamed of their faith and sharing it with others. Some may find Marta “preachy” but in this instance I found her impassioned speeches very consistent with her character and also fitting as MRAMR is told from her perspective. It was also a delight to read a novel with a solid Law and Gospel understanding of the Bible and not a more generic Christian theme— again, totally fitting with the theme and background of the characters. This may seem like a minor detail to some readers, but it absolutely elevated MRAMR above and beyond my expectations. The world needs more fiction with a Lutheran perspective, especially when tackling topics like vocation and suffering!
My only disappointment is that I like having date stamps at the beginning of books so I have a solid frame of reference for historical events referred to but not described. (For example, “the war” is vague and the historian in me wanted to research more, but the romantic in me wanted to just keep reading.) However, additions at the end of novels, such as suggested readings and recipes are always huge bonuses in my world, because it helps the novel come even more alive! Five delightful, highly recommended stars!
(I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.)
It was so refreshing to read a novel with Christian characters who are unashamed of their faith and sharing it with others. Some may find Marta “preachy” but in this instance I found her impassioned speeches very consistent with her character and also fitting as MRAMR is told from her perspective. It was also a delight to read a novel with a solid Law and Gospel understanding of the Bible and not a more generic Christian theme— again, totally fitting with the theme and background of the characters. This may seem like a minor detail to some readers, but it absolutely elevated MRAMR above and beyond my expectations. The world needs more fiction with a Lutheran perspective, especially when tackling topics like vocation and suffering!
My only disappointment is that I like having date stamps at the beginning of books so I have a solid frame of reference for historical events referred to but not described. (For example, “the war” is vague and the historian in me wanted to research more, but the romantic in me wanted to just keep reading.) However, additions at the end of novels, such as suggested readings and recipes are always huge bonuses in my world, because it helps the novel come even more alive! Five delightful, highly recommended stars!
(I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.)
December 6, 2022
This was such a good book. I don't always know what to expect from indie authors, but I loved this so much.
First it was western, which I loved. Second it was Christian western which I adored, and it was so well done too. Thirdly, it was Christian romance western which just made it the best.
I loved the characters. I loved that there were recipes at the end. And while I hesitated about it being a Beauty and the Beast re-imagining (I don't like fairy tale retellings and in general avoid them), I found that it didn't really remind me of that story too much beside a couple points here and there, but really it was totally different.
I also loved the writing style. It was easy but enjoyable to read, and this was so well edited. I think I only noticed one thing which was a missing period. If there were any other errors, then I missed them.
Rachel Kovaciny is definitely going down for one of my favorite indie authors. Truly an excellent book. Totally recommend for those looking for clean Christian westerns. I don't think there was any language at all in it which is rare for westerns. Also, the romance was kept super clean, but sweet and heartwarming. There were a few kisses, but they were not described in detail and shouldn't make anyone feel uncomfortable.
First it was western, which I loved. Second it was Christian western which I adored, and it was so well done too. Thirdly, it was Christian romance western which just made it the best.
I loved the characters. I loved that there were recipes at the end. And while I hesitated about it being a Beauty and the Beast re-imagining (I don't like fairy tale retellings and in general avoid them), I found that it didn't really remind me of that story too much beside a couple points here and there, but really it was totally different.
I also loved the writing style. It was easy but enjoyable to read, and this was so well edited. I think I only noticed one thing which was a missing period. If there were any other errors, then I missed them.
Rachel Kovaciny is definitely going down for one of my favorite indie authors. Truly an excellent book. Totally recommend for those looking for clean Christian westerns. I don't think there was any language at all in it which is rare for westerns. Also, the romance was kept super clean, but sweet and heartwarming. There were a few kisses, but they were not described in detail and shouldn't make anyone feel uncomfortable.
November 27, 2022
I love all of Rachel's books, but I think this one is a new favorite. It has everything I want in a Christian romance and is missing all the things I don't like about many Christian romance novels (seriously, I'm very critical of Christian romance). I would recommend this to anyone who loves Beauty and the Beast, Jane Eyre, westerns, or American history!
August 15, 2023
Having the privilege of getting to know Rachel over the past few years, I can attest that this is the most Rachel of her books. I could hear her voice as I read this beautiful Beauty and the Beast tale.
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The setting of this story is a rough mining town, but the story itself is so gentle and thoughtful. The characters are full of life and personality.
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I love the author's ability to spin a fairytale without the magical aspect. Her western settings are always descriptive and you can tell she does a lot of research about the times and placed she chooses.
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Finally, the faith that Marta shares and relies on throughout the book is wonderful. I don't read much Christian fiction because it can feel too preachy. This felt natural and just right.
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The setting of this story is a rough mining town, but the story itself is so gentle and thoughtful. The characters are full of life and personality.
.
I love the author's ability to spin a fairytale without the magical aspect. Her western settings are always descriptive and you can tell she does a lot of research about the times and placed she chooses.
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Finally, the faith that Marta shares and relies on throughout the book is wonderful. I don't read much Christian fiction because it can feel too preachy. This felt natural and just right.
December 7, 2022
I don’t read a lot of historical fiction these days, but I make an automatic exception for Rachel Kovaciny. Her westerns are both charming and educational as she transports me vividly into the Wild West. Although her fairytale retellings include no magic, I’m still utterly delighted by her take on classic tropes.
My favorite post of this book was the narrator, Marta. I loved her distinctive voice and the way Rachel brought an immigrant’s experience to life through her narration.
I also loved the Christian element of this book. Marta is a woman of faith and this story didn’t shy away from portraying that side of her. Some Christian books feel as though a faith element is shoehorned in, but this story felt very natural in the way it described Marta’s beliefs.
I did receive an ARC from the author, but I loved it so much I bought a paperback for my shelf too. Can’t wait to read this to my daughters someday!
Also, now I want bread.
My favorite post of this book was the narrator, Marta. I loved her distinctive voice and the way Rachel brought an immigrant’s experience to life through her narration.
I also loved the Christian element of this book. Marta is a woman of faith and this story didn’t shy away from portraying that side of her. Some Christian books feel as though a faith element is shoehorned in, but this story felt very natural in the way it described Marta’s beliefs.
I did receive an ARC from the author, but I loved it so much I bought a paperback for my shelf too. Can’t wait to read this to my daughters someday!
Also, now I want bread.
November 5, 2022
I had the privilege of reading this book early, as a member of it’s ARC team. Quasi-legal-stuff here – I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book - but was not required to leave a review of any kind in return. I don’t have to – I want to!
There will be a longer review posted on my blog in about a week!
This is a re-telling of Beauty and the Beast, and it’s sweet.
It also made me hungry, because the Beauty character, Marta, is a baker.
Marta and her brother are German immigrants who find themselves in Colorado in the 1870’s, taking up new jobs working for a reclusive rich guy who lives up the side of a mountain. Of course, Marta discovers the Beast (whose name is Arthur) isn’t much of a beast, and a romance unfolds.
One of the things that I like most about this book is the stylistic choice made with Marta’s narrative voice. She come across as quite unique.
One of the things that I liked least about the book is that it does stray a bit into “preachy” territory – putting the “Christian” into the “Christian YA.” (It’s possible this book could be more precisely classified as “New Adult” given the character ages – all the main characters are adults.)
To be honest, I skipped past a few instances where Marta is explaining her theology. Part of the problem with these passages for me, is that they slowed the pace.
This is a lengthier read for YA already, taking somewhere between six or seven hours for me to read, over several days. It never became a task, but it would be important, I think, to know before starting on this book that it’s longer than the other books in the “Once Upon a Western” Series.
There are some quite enjoyably written lines, descriptions and details within this book.
There are mountains and suitably bad roads and rose gardens and mining accidents and adorable bachelor miners who nearly weep for fresh bread.
Over all, I enjoyed this book, it’s evident a lot of thought and care went into it, and while not everything it shares is to my taste, I appreciated the chance to be among the first to read it. Thank you!
There will be a longer review posted on my blog in about a week!
This is a re-telling of Beauty and the Beast, and it’s sweet.
It also made me hungry, because the Beauty character, Marta, is a baker.
Marta and her brother are German immigrants who find themselves in Colorado in the 1870’s, taking up new jobs working for a reclusive rich guy who lives up the side of a mountain. Of course, Marta discovers the Beast (whose name is Arthur) isn’t much of a beast, and a romance unfolds.
One of the things that I like most about this book is the stylistic choice made with Marta’s narrative voice. She come across as quite unique.
One of the things that I liked least about the book is that it does stray a bit into “preachy” territory – putting the “Christian” into the “Christian YA.” (It’s possible this book could be more precisely classified as “New Adult” given the character ages – all the main characters are adults.)
To be honest, I skipped past a few instances where Marta is explaining her theology. Part of the problem with these passages for me, is that they slowed the pace.
This is a lengthier read for YA already, taking somewhere between six or seven hours for me to read, over several days. It never became a task, but it would be important, I think, to know before starting on this book that it’s longer than the other books in the “Once Upon a Western” Series.
There are some quite enjoyably written lines, descriptions and details within this book.
There are mountains and suitably bad roads and rose gardens and mining accidents and adorable bachelor miners who nearly weep for fresh bread.
Over all, I enjoyed this book, it’s evident a lot of thought and care went into it, and while not everything it shares is to my taste, I appreciated the chance to be among the first to read it. Thank you!
October 25, 2022
I received an arc of this, and even though a review wasn’t required I wanted to write a short one anyway because I loved it so much! This book is part of the Once Upon a Western series, all of which are retellings of fairy tales, this one being a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I’ve actually loved all the books in this series so far, but this is my new favorite! It was beautiful and very sweet. I was enjoying it so much in fact I purposefully tried to take my time reading it so I could savor it and stay with these characters for a while. Also, I have to say, I felt seen reading this. I’m disabled, I have been since I was a child, so I grew up being stared at and being treated differently and it was really hard. I often wished I could hide away from the world, the way Arthur Wendell does here. So reading his story and his struggles with this was something I could very much relate to. Rachel captured all of that so well. Anyway, when I list my favorite fictional couples from here on out it will definitely include Marta and Arthur. ❤️ (Highly recommend!!)
December 24, 2024
5 stars. These books just go on improving! I really enjoyed Marta as a main character. She’s a strong, wholesome, upright, no-nonsense, kind-hearted woman. Her narrating voice is so unique and German-flavoured! It really added to the story. Jakob was a good brother, though his lie really bugged me; Mrs. C. was lovely; Arthur was awesome; and all the other characters were striking or enjoyable.
I loved the Beauty & the Beast retelling, which is one of my favourite fairytales. There was even some Jane Eyre references, and I thought I saw some Phantom of the Opera ones, though that was probably just a me thing. It was exquisitely retold, making so much sense while keeping so many familiar thematic elements. As a huge fan of the Disney musical, I even thought I saw an element or two from there…? I loved Marta’s love for bread and her lesson about trusting God instead of trying to figure it all out/fix it herself. And her passion for church and theology were commendable.
Overall, this had all the elements of a good story: clever watertight plot, sweet romance, character arcs, spiritual lessons and achievements born through struggle, strong friendships, and a great setting.
I loved the Beauty & the Beast retelling, which is one of my favourite fairytales. There was even some Jane Eyre references, and I thought I saw some Phantom of the Opera ones, though that was probably just a me thing. It was exquisitely retold, making so much sense while keeping so many familiar thematic elements. As a huge fan of the Disney musical, I even thought I saw an element or two from there…? I loved Marta’s love for bread and her lesson about trusting God instead of trying to figure it all out/fix it herself. And her passion for church and theology were commendable.
Overall, this had all the elements of a good story: clever watertight plot, sweet romance, character arcs, spiritual lessons and achievements born through struggle, strong friendships, and a great setting.
December 20, 2023
Finding the right words for this book is difficult; it was just so sweet and soft and entertaining, that I would fly right through several chapters without pause!
I loved all the bread. And the love story, (which was so wholesome to read in a book nowadays).
I loved all the bread. And the love story, (which was so wholesome to read in a book nowadays).
November 7, 2022
I received this ARC book from the author for free. I wrote this review without payment or compensation from the author, nor was I compelled to write a positive review.
SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD
This book is a unique book in the world of Wild West stories. For one thing, it’s about some other character than just a gun-slinging outlaw on the run from his past. It’s about a gentle German immigrant who loves baking. It’s about her employer who hides his disfigured face, afraid he’ll be regarded a monster. This is one unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast, tightly shrouded in a Wild West wrapping. When compared to many other retellings, it stands on shaky legs. But when taken by itself, it proves to be a comforting read filled with pleasant characters and a happily ever after.
A quick synopsis: Marta Beckmann and her brother Jakob, both immigrants from Germany working to send back money for their parents, take a job for a scarred, reclusive employer. Marta must navigate her new job, troubles back in Germany, and her new feelings for her employer to find her happy ending.
I found this to be a feel-good book, but with a problematic lack of conflict and plot. I read it over the course of a few days, and each time I finished reading, I was left wondering ‘what happens to Marta? What does she do next?’ Yes, it was a book I could enjoy, but it didn’t have a clear singular conflict. Sickness, romantic troubles, and painful memories plague Marta and the others, but there is no climax in which these are solved. They just gradually fade away, or they are resolved but are then replaced by something else.
My favorite character was the main character, Marta. When the book began, I found it hard to like her— she didn’t seem very relatable, it was hard to get into her head. However, towards about the middle of the book, she really began to open up toward the audience. We see her hopes, her fears, her passions, her interests, and that makes her come alive. The ‘beast’ to her ‘beauty’, Mr. Wendell, also takes a while for the audience to warm up to, but after his character does a complete U-turn in terms of characterization, it’s easier to admire him.
Another important aspect of this book is the diction. There are a few lines in this book that just made me stop and read them again, they were so beautifully worded. For example, “Mr. Wendell’s words were usually so polished, like well-cared-for tools” (p. 1995). Or, “A building could not stand up straight without a roof, the same as a man could not stand up straight without a name” (813). Similes and metaphors, when used right, can pack quite a punch. (To clear any confusion, I read a Kindle version of the book, so the page numbers are not the same as the physical book.)
I would recommend this book for an audience 12-18. It is clean and filled with Christian themes, but the main character is involved in some very deep and important relationship arcs that are good for readers who would perhaps glean more from those.
All in all, this is a great book for sitting back with a cup of tea, a comfy blanket, and a bit of time. Maybe the plot is slow at points, but this is all-around a cozy, inviting, kind of read. I definitely don’t regret reading this one.
SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD
This book is a unique book in the world of Wild West stories. For one thing, it’s about some other character than just a gun-slinging outlaw on the run from his past. It’s about a gentle German immigrant who loves baking. It’s about her employer who hides his disfigured face, afraid he’ll be regarded a monster. This is one unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast, tightly shrouded in a Wild West wrapping. When compared to many other retellings, it stands on shaky legs. But when taken by itself, it proves to be a comforting read filled with pleasant characters and a happily ever after.
A quick synopsis: Marta Beckmann and her brother Jakob, both immigrants from Germany working to send back money for their parents, take a job for a scarred, reclusive employer. Marta must navigate her new job, troubles back in Germany, and her new feelings for her employer to find her happy ending.
I found this to be a feel-good book, but with a problematic lack of conflict and plot. I read it over the course of a few days, and each time I finished reading, I was left wondering ‘what happens to Marta? What does she do next?’ Yes, it was a book I could enjoy, but it didn’t have a clear singular conflict. Sickness, romantic troubles, and painful memories plague Marta and the others, but there is no climax in which these are solved. They just gradually fade away, or they are resolved but are then replaced by something else.
My favorite character was the main character, Marta. When the book began, I found it hard to like her— she didn’t seem very relatable, it was hard to get into her head. However, towards about the middle of the book, she really began to open up toward the audience. We see her hopes, her fears, her passions, her interests, and that makes her come alive. The ‘beast’ to her ‘beauty’, Mr. Wendell, also takes a while for the audience to warm up to, but after his character does a complete U-turn in terms of characterization, it’s easier to admire him.
Another important aspect of this book is the diction. There are a few lines in this book that just made me stop and read them again, they were so beautifully worded. For example, “Mr. Wendell’s words were usually so polished, like well-cared-for tools” (p. 1995). Or, “A building could not stand up straight without a roof, the same as a man could not stand up straight without a name” (813). Similes and metaphors, when used right, can pack quite a punch. (To clear any confusion, I read a Kindle version of the book, so the page numbers are not the same as the physical book.)
I would recommend this book for an audience 12-18. It is clean and filled with Christian themes, but the main character is involved in some very deep and important relationship arcs that are good for readers who would perhaps glean more from those.
All in all, this is a great book for sitting back with a cup of tea, a comfy blanket, and a bit of time. Maybe the plot is slow at points, but this is all-around a cozy, inviting, kind of read. I definitely don’t regret reading this one.
November 13, 2022
Every once in awhile, you find a book that just “feels” like the author who wrote it. My Rock and My Refuge is just such a book. The author’s feelings, opinions, beliefs, and interests seep throughout it, and in a way, make it a very personal story full of sensory details.
When Marta winds up serving in the household of the cranky Mr. Arthur Wendall, she gets off on the wrong foot with him almost at once. He thinks she contrived to come there under false pretenses, and she gets immediately offended at his implication. But she also loves the house, its likable housekeeper, and the small, dying town in which it sits. And as her feelings for Arthur grow (with much resistance, I might add, since as he’s her employer), so does her desire to open a bakery. To tell you more would spoil it, but this has all the classic hues of Beauty and the Beast (a stolen rose, a beautiful girl, a scared “monster” who isn’t one), but in a charming western setting. A picturesque little Colorado mountain town, complete with a derelict mine and a single church. It’s written, deliberately, in a formal style, to mimic the struggle a non-English speaking character would have, and lovingly devotes itself to her heritage, to baking the kinds of breads she loves, and the life of an immigrant, and in that way, it’s highly unique. Marta is a sweet heroine—kind but also fiercely opinionated and sometimes preachy—in comparison to the slightly cranky but ultimately lovable Arthur, who has an unexpected kindness underneath the avoidant “hermit” veneer. She gets on his tail a few times as concerns religious matters, and in a way, it reminded me a bit of a line from my favorite film version of Emma – “I have lectured you, and you have borne it as no one else could have borne it!”
It’s one of the most proper B&TB retellings I have ever read, with no hints of impropriety and a good deal of Marta’s angst about falling in love with someone she ought not, at least in her own mind. It’s charming, and has the author’s favorite things all over it, and it’s suitable for all ages.
When Marta winds up serving in the household of the cranky Mr. Arthur Wendall, she gets off on the wrong foot with him almost at once. He thinks she contrived to come there under false pretenses, and she gets immediately offended at his implication. But she also loves the house, its likable housekeeper, and the small, dying town in which it sits. And as her feelings for Arthur grow (with much resistance, I might add, since as he’s her employer), so does her desire to open a bakery. To tell you more would spoil it, but this has all the classic hues of Beauty and the Beast (a stolen rose, a beautiful girl, a scared “monster” who isn’t one), but in a charming western setting. A picturesque little Colorado mountain town, complete with a derelict mine and a single church. It’s written, deliberately, in a formal style, to mimic the struggle a non-English speaking character would have, and lovingly devotes itself to her heritage, to baking the kinds of breads she loves, and the life of an immigrant, and in that way, it’s highly unique. Marta is a sweet heroine—kind but also fiercely opinionated and sometimes preachy—in comparison to the slightly cranky but ultimately lovable Arthur, who has an unexpected kindness underneath the avoidant “hermit” veneer. She gets on his tail a few times as concerns religious matters, and in a way, it reminded me a bit of a line from my favorite film version of Emma – “I have lectured you, and you have borne it as no one else could have borne it!”
It’s one of the most proper B&TB retellings I have ever read, with no hints of impropriety and a good deal of Marta’s angst about falling in love with someone she ought not, at least in her own mind. It’s charming, and has the author’s favorite things all over it, and it’s suitable for all ages.
August 23, 2024
This book is so different than my normal reading choice that it's almost funny. It's safer and stays closer to home than my normal fare. There are almost no guns and no violent war scenes. There's not a lot of heartbreaking trauma that makes a reader sob. I tend to go for more visceral stories; this book was dependable and comfortable. This book was overtly Christian, and while I am a Christian, I tend to avoid overt ones because they get preachy. Even for all that, I very much enjoyed it and read it quite quickly because it held my interest.
I enjoyed the Beauty and the Beast retelling, but I like the Jane Eyre vibe even more. I liked that Marta is outspoken and that sometimes that goes well for her and sometimes it doesn't. (There were a few moments that I got a little tired of Marta, but they were short-lived. Typically about the time I was ready to get away from her, the story moved on.) I like that she had to wrestle with her outspokenness. I liked that she wasn't always right or wise. I loved the bread. Holy cow the bread. This book had such a strong feminine cozy vibe. I loved it.
I loved Maggie and Marta's friendship. It was such a refreshingly good female friendship. It is the kind of friendship that I want. It wasn't gossipy, backbiting, or loud, but kind and strong. I think I loved their friendship more than the romance.
I loved Marta selling her bread to the minors. I loved how her hard work went to the men who needed it and how much it meant to them. I love that Marta is strong and brave but no girlboss. I love the domesticness of this book. I loved seeing the accuracy of the aftermath of war and learning a little about Germany at that time.
So, while it didn't have an epic gunfight or scenes of battle, I loved the love it has for all the little things at home. I very much enjoyed this book.
I enjoyed the Beauty and the Beast retelling, but I like the Jane Eyre vibe even more. I liked that Marta is outspoken and that sometimes that goes well for her and sometimes it doesn't. (There were a few moments that I got a little tired of Marta, but they were short-lived. Typically about the time I was ready to get away from her, the story moved on.) I like that she had to wrestle with her outspokenness. I liked that she wasn't always right or wise. I loved the bread. Holy cow the bread. This book had such a strong feminine cozy vibe. I loved it.
I loved Maggie and Marta's friendship. It was such a refreshingly good female friendship. It is the kind of friendship that I want. It wasn't gossipy, backbiting, or loud, but kind and strong. I think I loved their friendship more than the romance.
I loved Marta selling her bread to the minors. I loved how her hard work went to the men who needed it and how much it meant to them. I love that Marta is strong and brave but no girlboss. I love the domesticness of this book. I loved seeing the accuracy of the aftermath of war and learning a little about Germany at that time.
So, while it didn't have an epic gunfight or scenes of battle, I loved the love it has for all the little things at home. I very much enjoyed this book.
October 27, 2022
I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher with no obligation to post a review.
My Rock and My Refuge is a western retelling of my favorite fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. The familiar elements were all there, but the story didn’t feel like a simple rehash.
I enjoyed the way Marta’s (Beauty) perspective is written. Her thoughts are ever so subtlety phrased to convey that she is not a native English speaker, which I think is brilliant.
I didn’t enjoy her dogmatic approach to the men in her life. She’s opinionated, which is great, but that doesn’t make her opinion correct. She does experience moments of doubt, but overall is a bit “preachy”.
One of the reasons I love BATB is the sloooow burn romance, and the romance here felt, comparatively, fast. Marta herself even comments on it. However, it is a much healthier relationship than most BATB retellings, so that’s a plus!
Overall, I didn’t *love* it as much as One Bad Apple (that book is absolutely spectacular!), but it’s a solid entry in the Once Upon a Western series, and an effective BATB retelling.
My Rock and My Refuge is a western retelling of my favorite fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. The familiar elements were all there, but the story didn’t feel like a simple rehash.
I enjoyed the way Marta’s (Beauty) perspective is written. Her thoughts are ever so subtlety phrased to convey that she is not a native English speaker, which I think is brilliant.
I didn’t enjoy her dogmatic approach to the men in her life. She’s opinionated, which is great, but that doesn’t make her opinion correct. She does experience moments of doubt, but overall is a bit “preachy”.
One of the reasons I love BATB is the sloooow burn romance, and the romance here felt, comparatively, fast. Marta herself even comments on it. However, it is a much healthier relationship than most BATB retellings, so that’s a plus!
Overall, I didn’t *love* it as much as One Bad Apple (that book is absolutely spectacular!), but it’s a solid entry in the Once Upon a Western series, and an effective BATB retelling.
January 19, 2026
Oh my goodness, I loved this book so much. The main character Marta is fantastic and I would absolutely love a sequel. I want to see Alex grow and change and find love. I want to learn more about Arthur’s family and upbringing. I want to see the bakery do well and for Marta to teach her young kids how to bake and help them grow up in a place so different from her own.
I love how the Gospel is explained in such a loving and gentle manner. God’s love is there to help and sustain you in so many countless ways.
Definitely need to eat this with some delicious bread nearby or you will go crazy!
I love how the Gospel is explained in such a loving and gentle manner. God’s love is there to help and sustain you in so many countless ways.
Definitely need to eat this with some delicious bread nearby or you will go crazy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2024
REVIEWED: October 19, 2023
MY ROCK AND MY REFUGE is a very sweet and slow-build Beauty and the Beast Retelling, set in the old west, with subtle Jane Eyre vibes. Marta and her brother take a job together at Arthur's large house, where he has closed himself off from the world to hide his terrible scars; but his heart is gentle and he is drawn to Marta, not just for her beauty of face but her courageous heart and determined spirit.
I loved this book, though it is a rather lengthy volume and is very slow build. There is gentle life and faith lessons throughout which had me smiling and nodding my head in agreement; the romance between Marta and Arthur is a friends-to-more trope that is super sweet, with nothing more than gentle kisses and one or two embraces.
While it is a slow beginning, and even the romance is almost non-existent through much of the book, things get intense and faster-paced toward the end, and will have you on the edge of your seat. I found myself holding my breath in agony on several occasions, realizing just how much these characters had come to mean to me, anxious for a HEA, and for everyone to come through the storms all right. There is a large cast of characters, and they are all well fleshed-out.
Clean and appropriate for tweens, teens, and adults.
MY ROCK AND MY REFUGE is a very sweet and slow-build Beauty and the Beast Retelling, set in the old west, with subtle Jane Eyre vibes. Marta and her brother take a job together at Arthur's large house, where he has closed himself off from the world to hide his terrible scars; but his heart is gentle and he is drawn to Marta, not just for her beauty of face but her courageous heart and determined spirit.
I loved this book, though it is a rather lengthy volume and is very slow build. There is gentle life and faith lessons throughout which had me smiling and nodding my head in agreement; the romance between Marta and Arthur is a friends-to-more trope that is super sweet, with nothing more than gentle kisses and one or two embraces.
While it is a slow beginning, and even the romance is almost non-existent through much of the book, things get intense and faster-paced toward the end, and will have you on the edge of your seat. I found myself holding my breath in agony on several occasions, realizing just how much these characters had come to mean to me, anxious for a HEA, and for everyone to come through the storms all right. There is a large cast of characters, and they are all well fleshed-out.
Clean and appropriate for tweens, teens, and adults.
December 9, 2022
I'm a slow reader, and I took my time to savor this beautiful story. Set in Colorado in the Old West, this story draws out several strands of life at the time of the American Gold Rush -- immigrants, mining, railroads, rugged living, wilderness dangers and more. The story revolves around a brother and sister who have come from Germany to earn money for their family who have lost much during war and famine in the Old Country, such a true-to-life story for many whose roots go back to Germany. Marta, the sister says, "I tingled with anticipation when we reached the curve of the road where Busted Luck would come into view. Moments later, the buildings rose around us like an orchard in winter, all trunks and limbs, but with no leaves."
Marta is the "beauty" in Beauty and the Beast retelling, wanting to be seen for who she is rather than her appearance. Marta has many wonderful qualities, especially how hard she works and how loyal she is, and she processes life through the lens of faith which is such an integrally pleasing part of this story. Marta says about herself "I have never run away from a challenge. I am no fancy thoroughbred that shies at a rabbit or a stray piece of paper. I am a solid workhorse in the fields that knows its job and will steadily pull my load until we have finished." Beautiful metaphors like this and the one above fill this book. I also love how Marta's voice in the story had the meter of an immigrant's adaptive English. This dimension added to Marta's authenticity for me.
The "beast" is Marta's employer Arthur Wendell. His story unfolds somewhat predictably, but I personally was still surprised by the last few pages of the book.
This book covers many themes of the Beauty and the Beast story, but also surpasses them as faith is so beautifully unfolded throughout the lives of the characters. Still, the themes of greed, prejudice, sacrifice, perseverance, faithfulness, loyalty, and family are ones we can all relate to and learn from.
I loved this story and look forward to sharing it widely!
Marta is the "beauty" in Beauty and the Beast retelling, wanting to be seen for who she is rather than her appearance. Marta has many wonderful qualities, especially how hard she works and how loyal she is, and she processes life through the lens of faith which is such an integrally pleasing part of this story. Marta says about herself "I have never run away from a challenge. I am no fancy thoroughbred that shies at a rabbit or a stray piece of paper. I am a solid workhorse in the fields that knows its job and will steadily pull my load until we have finished." Beautiful metaphors like this and the one above fill this book. I also love how Marta's voice in the story had the meter of an immigrant's adaptive English. This dimension added to Marta's authenticity for me.
The "beast" is Marta's employer Arthur Wendell. His story unfolds somewhat predictably, but I personally was still surprised by the last few pages of the book.
This book covers many themes of the Beauty and the Beast story, but also surpasses them as faith is so beautifully unfolded throughout the lives of the characters. Still, the themes of greed, prejudice, sacrifice, perseverance, faithfulness, loyalty, and family are ones we can all relate to and learn from.
I loved this story and look forward to sharing it widely!
November 3, 2022
I’m not sure where to begin. I loved this book! It is my favorite installment in the Once Upon a Western series yet! Beauty and the Beast has been covered so many times, and the same “romance tactics” of secrecy and miscommunication cause a weak story in other retellings. Not so here. Instead, this slow burn romance, is sweetly built on honesty, and pure intentions. There aren’t any overdramatized blow-ups between the pair and thankfully, no miscommunications that spiral out of control and into the depths of ridiculousness. Which means, we got heart-melting interaction that left me rereading certain passages more than once.
As always, I loved Rachel’s imagery through her words! She is able to write in a way that allows your imagination to engage with her tale alongside her characters. You feel like you’re living the story with them. And I love that! I need some of Marta’s bread! I want to explore Arthur’s manor—with particular attention to the library and the overgrown garden. And mines still creep me out! Haha.
Also, the focus on faith, while a deterrent for some, was such a beautiful addition in my mind. It was woven so realistically into daily life. What it looks like to be living an experience of building faith in God in everyday situations. It was impactfully done.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest, not necessarily positive, review.
As always, I loved Rachel’s imagery through her words! She is able to write in a way that allows your imagination to engage with her tale alongside her characters. You feel like you’re living the story with them. And I love that! I need some of Marta’s bread! I want to explore Arthur’s manor—with particular attention to the library and the overgrown garden. And mines still creep me out! Haha.
Also, the focus on faith, while a deterrent for some, was such a beautiful addition in my mind. It was woven so realistically into daily life. What it looks like to be living an experience of building faith in God in everyday situations. It was impactfully done.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest, not necessarily positive, review.
December 20, 2024
𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓸𝓬𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓮𝓯𝓾𝓰𝓮 is a sweet, wholesome Beauty and the Beast reimagining with hints of Jane Eyre woven in.
“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒏𝒅.”
Set in the Colorado Territory in 1874, this fourth book in @rachelkovacinyauthor ‘s Once Upon a Western series follows Marta and her brother, Jakob, German immigrants starting fresh as servants for Mr. Wendell, a wealthy recluse with a scarred face. Though Marta and Mr. Wendell’s story unfolds quietly, it is filled with moments of profound insight and gentle faith.
Marta is a heroine of strength, humility, and steadfast faith, grounding her every decision in a desire to follow God. I loved her practical, task-focused approach to life—and her deep satisfaction in making things clean! Her frequent baking also makes me want to bake bread, especially since a couple of recipes are included at the end. Too bad I didn’t have any for the photo.
“𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒅𝒐𝒏𝒆, 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏.”
This novel captures the rhythms of simple, everyday life and the faith required for trusting God with all of life’s trials and triumphs. It features a clean, slow-build romance that I recommend for ages 12 and up. 𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓸𝓬𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓮𝓯𝓾𝓰𝓮 can be read as a stand-alone.
“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒏𝒅.”
Set in the Colorado Territory in 1874, this fourth book in @rachelkovacinyauthor ‘s Once Upon a Western series follows Marta and her brother, Jakob, German immigrants starting fresh as servants for Mr. Wendell, a wealthy recluse with a scarred face. Though Marta and Mr. Wendell’s story unfolds quietly, it is filled with moments of profound insight and gentle faith.
Marta is a heroine of strength, humility, and steadfast faith, grounding her every decision in a desire to follow God. I loved her practical, task-focused approach to life—and her deep satisfaction in making things clean! Her frequent baking also makes me want to bake bread, especially since a couple of recipes are included at the end. Too bad I didn’t have any for the photo.
“𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒅𝒐𝒏𝒆, 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏.”
This novel captures the rhythms of simple, everyday life and the faith required for trusting God with all of life’s trials and triumphs. It features a clean, slow-build romance that I recommend for ages 12 and up. 𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓸𝓬𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓮𝓯𝓾𝓰𝓮 can be read as a stand-alone.
November 8, 2022
This is the best book I’ve read in a while. It’s the kind of book that cheers up a girl on a rainy day. 🙂 It’s a lovely Christian read with traveling immigrants, a nearby deserted town, a mysterious recluse, and lots of freshly baked bread! It even includes subplots with Asian settlers!
The main characters are a brother and sister pair who are hired onto the staff of a recluse. Jakob and Marta came from Germany following a war and headed west after the Gold Rush, well, rushed and bust. The setting was charming, the characters good on multiple levels, plot developments were handled well, and subplots were well sprinkled throughout with several of them given extra good depth.
My Rock and My Refuge addressed some tough questions about assumptions & misconceptions, and tragedies human & circumstantial. I appreciated how the book didn’t shy away from the problems and ugliness of this world and instead responded with Christian faith and messages.
And, for those curious, this western retelling of Beauty and the Beast keeps the romance clean, and yay for characters having standards! 😀 You may also recognize several parallels with Jane Eyre also.
I did receive a free advanced review copy of My Rock and My Refuge from the author, but my review is honest & freely given.
The main characters are a brother and sister pair who are hired onto the staff of a recluse. Jakob and Marta came from Germany following a war and headed west after the Gold Rush, well, rushed and bust. The setting was charming, the characters good on multiple levels, plot developments were handled well, and subplots were well sprinkled throughout with several of them given extra good depth.
My Rock and My Refuge addressed some tough questions about assumptions & misconceptions, and tragedies human & circumstantial. I appreciated how the book didn’t shy away from the problems and ugliness of this world and instead responded with Christian faith and messages.
And, for those curious, this western retelling of Beauty and the Beast keeps the romance clean, and yay for characters having standards! 😀 You may also recognize several parallels with Jane Eyre also.
I did receive a free advanced review copy of My Rock and My Refuge from the author, but my review is honest & freely given.
November 16, 2025
Number 4 in this series—each one grows on me a little more! Kovaciny’s writing style is unassuming but her characters make surprisingly deep observations about themselves, others, and their circumstances.
Things I loved about this book in particular—
The romance kept moving steadily and the love interests didn’t play dumb games; it was beauty and the beast without the beast being, well, beastly.
The sibling relationship between Marta and Jakob was wholesome and relatable. I loved the way they knew each other well and sought each other’s good. And teased each other, obviously.
The Christian themes were well-handled. Sections felt preachy—and then Marta would wonder to herself, “am I being too preachy?” Which made me laugh and allowed the author more leeway in how long she could take with spiritual dialogue.
As always, Kovaciny handled history in a racially informed way. There are first and second generation immigrants of two different nationalities, and she shows the hardship and prejudice they experienced in a gentle way that would be an appropriate introduction for younger readers.
Approachable, enjoyable, and courage-giving.
Things I loved about this book in particular—
The romance kept moving steadily and the love interests didn’t play dumb games; it was beauty and the beast without the beast being, well, beastly.
The sibling relationship between Marta and Jakob was wholesome and relatable. I loved the way they knew each other well and sought each other’s good. And teased each other, obviously.
The Christian themes were well-handled. Sections felt preachy—and then Marta would wonder to herself, “am I being too preachy?” Which made me laugh and allowed the author more leeway in how long she could take with spiritual dialogue.
As always, Kovaciny handled history in a racially informed way. There are first and second generation immigrants of two different nationalities, and she shows the hardship and prejudice they experienced in a gentle way that would be an appropriate introduction for younger readers.
Approachable, enjoyable, and courage-giving.
February 13, 2023
This was such a sweet story and it is probably my favorite that I have read by this author so far. It's a gentle tale and I so enjoyed the characters and all the little nods to the original tale. One thing that really caught my attention was how well the characters communicated. Even if there were some misunderstandings, the main characters did not just sit on them and let them undermine them...they quickly worked to clear things up. I was very pleased by that in particular.
Overall, it was a sweet Beauty and the Beast retelling that I will definitely be revisiting!
I received an ARC from the author and was not required to leave a review, positive or negative. All opinions are honest and my own.
Overall, it was a sweet Beauty and the Beast retelling that I will definitely be revisiting!
I received an ARC from the author and was not required to leave a review, positive or negative. All opinions are honest and my own.
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