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Jewel #1.5

Greater Than Rubies

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Robin Bartlett said, "Yes!" Will she say, "I do," when the big day arrives?

From his cultured handsome looks to his vast fortune, Antonio "Tony" Viscolli is every girl's dream. Robin comes from a blistering past, struggling for survival in a cold, cruel world. Robin never had a chance to dream of a white wedding gown or a prince charming. Instead, her dreams were nightmares -- dark and clouded with fear and desperation. By the time Tony thaws her heart, she has known hunger, poverty, violence, and want.

For months, Tony courted the blond beauty with the sapphire eyes. He showered with attention, respect, and charm and covered her in diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Finally, Robin came to understand God's love for her as imitated by the unconditional love Tony freely offered. On a sunny Florida beach, Tony proposed.

Back in bitter cold Boston, doubts about becoming a billionaire's bride begin to burden her hopes for happiness. Robin struggles to cope with the never-ending details of the shower, ceremony, reception, and honeymoon; the prospects of changing her name and relocating; and the very public image she must suddenly adopt; all while dealing with her father's very serious legal problems.

As the date draws inexorably near and the pressure mounts, Robin questions whether she is truly the woman God has made for him. Is she the girl of his dreams? His vast material wealth begins to overwhelm her. Nightmares from a forgotten past return in full force, reminding Robin of an even deeper and more terrifying prospect. Will she give in to her insecurities and cancel Boston's "Royal Wedding" for good? Or, with God's guidance, can Tony sacrifice everything to prove to his beloved Robin her true worth?

142 pages, ebook

First published December 1, 2012

331 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read

About the author

Hallee Bridgeman

64 books1,011 followers
With nearly a million book sales, USA Today bestselling author Hallee Bridgeman writes action-packed romantic suspense focusing on realistic characters who face real-world problems. Her work has been described as everything from refreshing to heart-stopping exciting and edgy.

An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.

When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.

Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.

Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com

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5 stars
473 (42%)
4 stars
348 (31%)
3 stars
206 (18%)
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59 (5%)
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31 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
Profile Image for Amanda.
990 reviews
April 5, 2023
This was a good Christian romance novel, as many would be able to guess simply from the title and cover. It is a companion to a book in a trilogy, and the author does a good job making this book stand on its own if you haven't read the other book, which I have not. As usual, the Christian man is portrayed as quite perfect, without any flaws (other than some in his past which he has, of course, overcome). I don't mean anything against the author--just that so many of the men in Christian romance are so perfect that they don't quite seem real. I've met many wonderful Christian men and am married to one, and yet I don't know that any are up to the perfection shown in so many books like this. In spite of that, this was an excellent book. The main characters both came from poverty filled with abuse, and through Christ they overcame their pasts, but not without struggle that was VERY realistic. I thought the author did a beautiful job of showing that healing is possible. Again, it seemed to happen quite quickly and easily, but not having experienced it for myself, and knowing that this is a fiction novel meant to represent and not lead through every step of the healing process, I think that it did what it was meant to do very well: give hope to people who have experienced suffering, and know that it is possible to overcome it through Jesus.
Profile Image for Barbara Derksen.
Author 35 books50 followers
February 14, 2013
Halle Bridgeman gave every woman who read her series, the finish it needed. What woman doesn't like to imagine all the details of a fabulous, no restrictions wedding. The usual wedding jitters abound.  When Robin decides to cancel the wedding, her sisters, Maxine and Sarah step to her side in support. This is a perfect addition to the Jewel Series.
Profile Image for Debi.
7 reviews9 followers
March 6, 2013
This was a perfect complement to the rest of the Jewel Trilogy series. The characters are real, with real emotions, doubts, and reactions to the situations they find themselves in. I recommend it highly, along with the other books in the series. You will come to love these characters!
Profile Image for Laurel.
132 reviews
March 19, 2013
This was a great postscript for SAPPHIRE ICE! The dedication is to the author's daughter who read the original book and wanted to see the wedding, so thank you to her! The perfect wedding for these characters.
Profile Image for Alayna.
26 reviews
May 8, 2013
A great Christian romance that I really enjoyed reading! This is the first book I have read from this series but I am definitely going to read the other books. I can't wait to read Maxi's story and Sarah's story!
1 review
December 27, 2012
This novella is a wonderful addition to the Jewel Trilogy. I couldn't stop reading. This novella is wonderful on its own.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,865 reviews204 followers
June 12, 2013
Greater Than Rubies is the story of Tony and Robin's engagement, wedding planning and wedding day. I absolutely loved this book. I thought Sapphire Ice was wonderful as well, however, Greater Than Rubies adds to the story splendidly and gives me just the right amount of insight into their lives. Robin's anxiety over marrying Tony grows daily as she feels inadequate to be the wife of such a wealthy and powerful man. She also is dealing with anxiety over the upcoming wedding night, since her only experiences were ones of rape. She loves Tony completely but does not feel worthy of him in any way. I really enjoyed the other characters in the book, such as Derrick, and of course Robin's sisters, Maxine and Sarah. I look forward to reading their stories in the author's other books in this trilogy. I received this book for free as part of a two book bundle from the author, through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
117 reviews4 followers
June 9, 2013
This story continues where "Sapphire Ice" ends, but is also a wonderful story as a stand alone. Ms Bridgeman is a very talented storyteller, capturing the reader's attention right from page 1. Each chapter is full of reality, faith and surprises to keep you reading chapter after chapter. This novella also brings the reader into more of the other two sisters' lives so you can't wait to read their stories as the trilogy continues. A complete work, in itself, but a great accompaniment to book one in the jewel trilogy. I received this book from bookfun.org in return for my honest opinion
Profile Image for Cathleen.
738 reviews19 followers
July 16, 2013
"Greater Than Rubies" is a novella that is inspired from "Sapphire Ice, Book One" in the Jewels Trilogy written by Hallee Bridgeman.

In book one you are introduced to 3 sisters. Book one is the story of Robin. "Greater Than Rubies" is also about Robin but is about her love story and upcoming wedding to Tony Viscolli.

Such a great series. I am looking forward to reading the next book.

Thanks to Mrs. Bridgeman and The Book Club Network for providing me with a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Nancy Luebke.
1,466 reviews64 followers
July 6, 2013
I enjoyed this second in the Jewel trilogy, it continued on with the engagement of the main characters, it brought out a little more of the sisters. While there were gaps on what Robin was feelin through the ups and downs, it did bring more out on the other characters. In the end, I'd like to know more now of the other sisters. I shed a few tears of my own on this one.I received this book from bookclub network in exchange for my honest review.
92 reviews
June 19, 2013
Remember what I saw in my last post about Robin growing onto me the more I read Sapphire Ice? Well, midway through reading Greater Than Rubies, I was more than prepared to retract that statement. Was I mad when she made the choice to let her fears dictate her life? Yes, definitely. It took me awhile to get past my annoyance and see that while most brides get wedding jitters, Robin's fears goes farther than just wedding jitters. I also realized that while most brides get wedding jitters, Robin's is somewhat different as she is marrying a famous industry magnate, the cream of the crop, so to speak.

Greater Than Rubies is the sequel to Sapphire Ice. There are the same characters, but the major difference is that now, Robin is engaged to Tony. While they still face problems similar to the problems they faced in Sapphire Ice, in this sequel, they learn to face them and make the decision whether to conquer or submit to them.

While everything was in the third point-of-view throughout the book, there were gaps when the third point-of-view did not sufficiently illustrate and describe a character's thoughts. For example, although Robin's fears were portrayed in a realistic manner and I could grasp the enormity of them just based on the descriptions of her emotions and thoughts, it wasn't so when she made her final decision. I wanted to know what she was thinking, what was going through her mind when she made her decision and gave her conditions, but unfortunately, readers weren't given that view.

The more I get to know Tony's character, the more I like him. It's easy to see why Robin fell in love with him! For him, a billionaire, to trust a homeless teenage guy, clothe him, and bring him into his home, that takes a lot and speaks volumes about Tony's character. Being a philanthropist like many rich people are nowadays is one thing, walking the talk and actively participating in changing a life of a person is another.

I liked the way a major problem is suddenly thrown into the story more than halfway through it. Of course, it'll be great if there was a plot twist earlier, but better late than never, right? The pace of the story in the first half lulls you into a false sense of security (that is, if you didn't read the story's blurb before reading the story) and then suddenly throws a big obstacle right out of nowhere. It makes you wonder if the story will have a happily ever after ending or a sad ending.

Conclusion: The story is more or less evenly paced. It gives us a peak into what it's like to have wedding jitters. Like in the previous book, there are parts where conversations are little "preachy". Despite that, there are some real lessons to be garnered from reading Greater Than Rubies.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author through The Book Club Network review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Debora Wilder.
562 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2013
I loved this novella as much as I did Sapphire Ice.

I received a free copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion.

At the start of this story Robin and Tony have just gotten engaged. Their lives are still vastly different.

Robin has learned to rely on no one, especially a man. She works hard to keep herself and her sisters housed, fed and her youngest sister in college.

Tony on the other hand has built a virtual business empire. One of his ways to express his love for others is to give gifts to them.

As they move toward their wedding day the biggest challenge is coming as they learn to share their differences and work together to achieve their happily ever after.

Hallee has done a remarkable job of developing the plot for this story. She weaves it together in a way that I was pulling for Robin and Tony to work through each crisis that came their way. It’s wonderful to see how the characters develop and turn to friends and family for support. Then, in turn, their friends help them to call upon God for direction.

The clarity that she uses to express their faith and trust in God is a breath of fresh air. It truly shows how much we all need strong supportive friends who know the Lord and know how to direct us to Him in all the storms of life.
30 reviews
June 21, 2013
Greater Than Rubies

In Greater Than Rubies by Hallee Bridgeman, the overall storyline continues from where Sapphire Ice ends. It is a vital link to the first book. The reader gets to know the characters in a more detailed way plus meet some new ones. In this book, the author allows us to see some problems developing between Robin Barlett and Tony Viscolli. Are they able to build a better foundation even though they both came from dysfunctional families? Will they be able to come to an understanding and resolve their differences? Can the make their relationship work or will the separate?

Bridgeman maintains interest with twists and turns to the story. I found myself wanting to keep reading to find out how the relationship ends up. The story kept me on edge with its drama, excitement, and suspense. It was an enjoyable read.

Although Rubies was slow at times and I liked it less than Sapphire, it was well written and exciting. The novella that the author included gave insight into the rest of the Jewel Trilogy. I look forward to reading the other “jewels.”

Hallee Bridgeman graciously allowed me to read this book through bookfun.org.
Profile Image for Diana Montgomery.
844 reviews8 followers
July 29, 2013
Greater Than Rubies by Hallee Bridgeman
Another story well written by Hallee. I love the way Halle writes and always God honoring. Very tuff beginning for Robin. Being abused growing up going through bad foster care. Then as a adult how do you ever trust men again. In Sapphire and Ice she meets Tony who she thinks was born with a silver spoon finds out they are from the same side of the track. Both had similar upbringing. Tony ends up in his teens with a church who helps him grow into a fine man. Robin falls in love with Tony and Tony with her, They go through different things because Robin has he doubts holding onto her pass. But in the end of Sapphire and Ice they are planning out a wedding.
In Greater than Rubies they are wondering what kind of wedding and how big should it be or should they just elope. I loved it. Had a great twist in the story line about the wedding. Another soul lead to the Lord and salvation plan in the book. Hallee did a wonderful job. I can’t wait for the one. It is worth more then 5 stars.
Profile Image for Sarah Vanscoyoc.
344 reviews
June 24, 2013
This novella was as good as the first book (and if you’ve read my review for it, you’ll know I loved it), Sapphire Ice. While it’s labeled a novella, it wasn’t too short and didn’t leave anything undone or not said. It nicely wrapped up Robin and Tony’s story with a slight lead into books 2 and 3, Emerald Fire and Topaz Heat.
The writing was superb and I really enjoyed the storyline. I fall in love with Robin’s character more in each book. She’s very real and I loved seeing her faith grow and slowly change her. I had to keep reminding myself that it was fiction and not real life! That’s how you know it’s a good book, when it draws you in and doesn’t want to let you go!
I highly recommend this novella and the other books in the series - though you should know that if you read one of them, you’ll have to read them all! They’re very addicting!
I received this book through bookfun.org for my honest review, which I have given.
Profile Image for ChrisGA.
1,264 reviews
June 9, 2013
This novella is the rest of the story of the romance between Robin and Tony that began in SAPPHIRE ICE. It explores the question of what happens after Prince Charming asks Cinderella to marry him. Will she fit into life in the palace? Will she be able to adequately fulfill her role as queen? Will she be a blessing to her husband or bring him embarrassment and shame? Robin experiences all of these emotions as well as love and joy as Tony's fiancé. This is a Christian book, and the gospel message is woven throughout. The conversation between Derrick and Tony over the Monopoly board is as powerful as any I have read. The examples of sacrificial love demonstrated by Robin in the last book and Tony in this one are moving and awe-inspiring.
I received the ebook from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
5 reviews
June 17, 2013
A sweet read. Refreshing with its Christian overtones about love and marriage, but also dealt with current issues of sexual abuse in the foster care system.
7 reviews
October 12, 2013
Kept me interested.

Tony is wonderful. I want to marry a man like him. A man who really loves the Lord
and really loves his wife.
Profile Image for Pam.
248 reviews17 followers
June 25, 2013
This is a shorter book written go between books #1 and 2, but I really liked it anyways. Definitely cheesy. Definitely a pleasure read.
Profile Image for Kathleen Kurlin.
Author 4 books3 followers
September 16, 2013
This book is apparently part of a series, which I failed to realize when I downloaded it on my Kindle as a "free" book. I felt like I was missing some of the important back story, but not enough that I couldn't follow the story. I downloaded this book mainly because it was listed as a Christian fiction book, which was the appeal for me. I enjoyed the story for the most part, but had a hard time with the male main character who appeared to be a little too perfect to be believed; making him appear flawless and unbelievable. Other than that it was a good "free" read.
Profile Image for Lila.
593 reviews4 followers
August 27, 2016
A beautiful love story. It's hard to mesh two different backgrounds but they did. God was able.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,235 reviews5 followers
owned-to-read
January 1, 2014
*downloaded free on ARE
Profile Image for The Book Man.
198 reviews2 followers
August 21, 2016
"I'm like a bird. I fly for the winter." :P

"Let me love you in every way God commanded a man to love his wife. Let me treasure you, and abide in you, and protect you, and honor you."
Profile Image for Kelly.
444 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2018
Whew! What a wedding!

The story of Tony and Robin's wedding is quite precious. The twists and turns to get there, and then the surprise! Yes, very lovely! I would have loved to learn more about the bridesmaids' necklaces, as they seemed so personal. I was curious if their response and kept waiting for it.

But, I have to say, my absolute favorite chapter was cheaper twelve, with Derek and Tony!! I cried and cried! I SO loved the analogy Tony used! What an incredible chapter!

Yes, I have got to read the sisters' books now! I simply have to know if my suspicions are correct!

I highly recommend Hallee Bridgeman's works of art!
Profile Image for Stacey.
1,008 reviews
January 23, 2020
This is the continuation of Tony and Robin's relationship as they prepare for their wedding. There is the typical wedding jitters, and for Robin the expectation of trying to live up to the wealthy Viscolli image while trying to be herself. There is plenty of opportunities for witnessing the gospel, but the story is more disjointed than the first book, Sapphire Ice. I think the author was trying to cover too many secondary stories to focus on the main one. This book does set the stage for the next two books, Emerald Fire and Topaz Heat and gives a first chapter glimpse into each of those books. Final thoughts, a good story, but first book is better.
Profile Image for Susan Hylton.
302 reviews11 followers
October 24, 2021
I didn’t want to like this book,

This was in my kindle library a long time. I read the preface, rich people on a private beach talking about God and love and foster kids for some reason, it irked me. I hadn’t read the previous book in the series, so I didn’t already like and understand the characters backgrounds. I rarely start a book I do not finish, and actually, this was a touching story, and I did get invested. The wedding was sweet and brought tears. And truly, we Christians do talk, just like that. We bring God into conversations often. It isn’t trying to be religious. Jesus is truly the unseen guest in every situation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews

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