Beyond the Ashes

Golden Gate Chronicles #2

by Karen Barnett

Where better to rebuild and face one's fears than in 1906 San Francisco, a city rising from the ashes? Ruby Marshall, a young widow, is certain she'll discover new purpose assisting her brother Robert with his cancer research, but she doesn't anticipate finding new love.

Dr. Gerald Larkspur dreams of filling his empty home with family, but he'd always hoped it would be a wife and children. In the aftermath of the great earthquake, the rooms are overflowing with extended family and friends left homeless by the disaster. When Robert's widowed sister arrives, the close quarters seem close indeed.

Ruby and Gerald's fledgling romance is put at risk when Gerald develops symptoms of the very disease they're striving to cure. Together they must ask--is it worth a second chance at love when time might be short? 

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Christian Romance, Christian Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction

320 pages, Paperback

First published June 16, 2015

About the author

Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of the Vintage National Parks Novels, the Golden Gate Chronicles (Out of the Ruins, Beyond the Ashes, Through the Shadows), and MISTAKEN. She lives in Oregon with her husband, two kids, and a bevy of furry friends. You can learn more about Karen's writing journey at http://www.KarenBarnettBooks.com.

Reviews

[Sarah Sundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

With solid research, Karen Barnett brings 1906 San Francisco to life—the ruins, the refugees, the camps, and the rebuilding. Gerald and Ruby are characters you feel for, burdened by fears and failures—yet reaching for life and hope. Beyond the Ashes also explores the fascinating history of the early cancer researchers, and their frustrations and dangers. This is a wonderful, romantic read with a fresh feel and top-notch writing.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond The Ashes by Karen Barnett is the second novel in the Golden Gate Chronicles and I was blessed to receive a copy. The novel continues where the first book Out Of The Ruins left off, in the months following the 1906 San Francisco earthquake.
San Francisco is being rebuilt, with the hope that it will rise like a phoenix from the ashes. Dr Gerald Larkspur still has a house full with his mother, cousins family and his friend Dr Robert King.
Robert's sister Ruby, a young widow, has had enough of weddings in her home town. She escapes to San Francisco to help her brother in the hospital. One more woman in Gerald's home. Unknown to Ruby, she is walking straight into another lot of wedding plans.
Ruby accompanies Gerald and Robert to the hospital, to help nurse the cancer patients in their pioneering new treatment. She also joins Abby (Robert's fiancé and Gerald's cousin) in the displacement camps, helping the people made homeless by the quake.
The novel deals with a great many themes including fear. Ruby has a great fear of automobiles, after her husband was killed by one, two years earlier. Gerald owns an automobile, and Ruby learns to face her fears, as she wishes to learn to drive, so that she can be in control. She equates being in control with strength and not being hurt.
The theme of being in control runs throughout the novel. Ruby knows of God but does not want to place her life in His hands. She wants to literally and figuratively be in the driving seat. Gerald, as a doctor is used to being in control. Each time a patient dies, he feels a failure. He also takes control of his own life, and refuses to ask for help, as he sees it as a sign of weakness and vulnerability.
Surrendering and trusting God is another theme that runs alongside the control issue. Life is hard and cannot be controlled. Surrendering and trusting God does not mean that life suddenly becomes easy, but there will be a peace in life's storms. Both Gerald and Ruby need to hand over the steering wheel of their lives to God.
The theme of love runs throughout Beyond The Ashes. Ruby has loved and lost one husband, and is reluctant to open herself up to potentially more hurt. Whilst reading I was reminded of CS Lewis' words on protecting the heart - the only way to prevent a broken heart is to wrap it up and not give it to anyone, but then it will become hard and cold. The characters in the novel are anything but hard and cold. They are all open, friendly and radiating love and hospitality. I love the fact that Gerald's mother always cooks more than is needed, so that anyone can drop in for a meal. There seems to be quite a lot of action set in the kitchen or around the table, which gives the reader a warm, welcoming feeling.
Ruby's dachshund Otto is very much a part of the novel, as he follows her and others around. I found it amusing that he growls at her brother Robert because he doesn't like him!
As in book one, the issue of prejudice is raised. Again it is tackled with sensitivity, as Abby shows her friend is her friend, regardless of race or what others may say.
I enjoyed Beyond The Ashes for many reasons - it's wonderful characters, it's godly themes and that Karen Barnett was not afraid to deal with tough issues of the day - prejudice, cancer, diphtheria, death - all sensitively tackled. Karen Barnett wrote in such a way that I really felt I was there in San Francisco in 1906/7. I am really looking forward to more books in this wonderful series.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read nearly all of this author’s suspense stories, I wasn’t expecting her to nail the historical timeline so smoothly. Now I’m ready for the rest of the series!

This was a very well researched story that had a lot of medical detail to it as well, since the lead guy is a doctor. I can't deny that a few of the details were a bit strong for my stomach but that didn't really make me enjoy the book any less. The romance was very well done also.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 2 out of 5]

About this book:

“Young widow Ruby Marshall is certain she’ll discover new purpose assisting her brother, Robert, with his cancer research. And where better to rebuild than in 1906 San Francisco, a city rising from the ashes? Ruby arrives in the city with great hope and determination for a new beginning.
But she doesn’t anticipate finding new love.
Dr. Gerald Larkspur had dreamed of filling his empty home, but he’d always hoped it would be with a wife and children. In the aftermath of the great earthquake, the rooms are overflowing with family and friends left homeless by the disaster. As he attends to every need of his patients and friends, Gerald doubts he will ever find true love, especially when he develops symptoms of the very disease he’s striving to cure.
She’s had her love and lost it. He is still missing his heart’s desire.”


Series: Book #2 in the “Golden Gate Chronicles” series. (Book #1’s (old!) review Here! *This review is on the old rating system, so not as detailed as this review.)


Spiritual Content- Jeremiah 29:11 & Isaiah 61:3b at the beginning; Scriptures are quoted & mentioned; Prayers & Blessings over food; Many Talks about God, His plans & trusting Him; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of those in the Bible; Ruby is very mad at God for taking her husband and says many times that she’s in control of her life (*Spoiler* Her view changes near the end and starts trying to trust God *End of Spoiler*); Witnessing to Ruby.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blamed’, a ‘blasted’, a ‘drat’, a ‘idiot’, a ‘sissy’; Blood, Illnesses, Shots, Cancer & Doctor stuff (semi-detailed to detailed); Mentions of drugs and opium; Mentions of brawls, drinkers & cigar smoke.


Sexual Content- four not-detailed kisses, four barely-above-not-detailed kisses, three semi-detailed kisses and a detailed kiss; Two hand kisses; Remembering kisses (up to semi-detailed); Ruby remembers when Charlie would kiss her (barely-above-not-detailed); Engaged couples kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss & touch; Noticing (semi-detailed); Touches & Nearness (semi-detailed); Mentions of flirting; A few mentions of working women and girls working in brothels (including a 14yo girl); A few mentions & talks of being pure and desires; A mention of a midnight rendezvous & a mention of rewarding someone’s hospitality; A mention of a married woman having many affairs; Love, falling in love, trying not to fall in love, & the emotions.

-Ruby Marshall, age 27
-(Dr.) Gerald Larkspur, age 31
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1906
315 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{Caution for girls who: have cancer, are close with someone who does, or recently lost someone due to cancer.}
Okay, I’m *so* not a medical person—blood, needles, doctors—making this a not-so-fun read. Pretty serious stuff! I cringed at the radiation as I knew what was going to happen. I can’t say I really liked Ruby or Gerald at all, both of them got on my nerves with all their kissing, but Karen Barnett is a great author. She has a very unique writing style that’s very informative; I do remember liking Book #1 in this series much more. :)


Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Abingdon) for this review.

[Tressa (Wishful Endings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond the Ashes brought out lots of different emotions. It was heartfelt, sad, inspirational, humorous, and romantic. It was also full of friendships, family, sacrifice, service, and love.

I loved the setting of post-earthquake San Francisco. It's not an historical setting I've read about before. It's also not one that I had thought much about until now. It was such a terrible catastrophe and yet the city dug in to rebuild, not only structurally, but also many people who never would have befriended each other or been unified in a cause were brought together. It was still a tough situation with illnesses and poor housing for so many.

I also thought the x-ray research for cancer was rather interesting. I hadn't thought of the time and effort that would have gone into that, and, more importantly, the risks and opposition that would be faced for undertaking such research. I felt for these doctors and patients, as well as the old-fashioned doctors who had trouble letting go of the ways they had always known and how they must have felt threatened by young doctors and new research.

Beyond all these details were these characters that I came to love. Ruby with her vivaciousness for facing her fears, speaking what's on her mind, and wanting to be in control. Abby with her calming presence and simpler wants, while also having her own passion for specific things. Robert and his dreams and friendship. Gerald for his stubbornness, humor, intellect, and open mind. I loved how Ruby and Gerald challenged, attracted, and inspired each other. They were a great couple. I also enjoyed getting to know the other characters. The romance wasn't easy in coming, nor in being resolved. Ruby and Gerald both had a tough road and some things to work through before they could find their happily-ever-after.

If you enjoy Christian historical romance, then I'd definitely recommend Beyond the Ashes. The inspiration was nicely woven throughout, I loved the characters, felt immersed in the setting, and the romance was perfect. It was well worth the read.

Content: Clean
Source: I would like to thank Abingdon Press and Litfuse for my complimentary copy, which did not affect my review in any way.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This was my first book by Karen Barnett but it will not be my last. This is the second book in the Golden Gate Chronicles series but it stands alone fairly well. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and I cannot wait to read more about them in the third book. Highly recommended! 

[Tanx · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love the medical details in this one!

[Alyson Wills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent 2nd book of the series.

[Iola · Rating 3 out of 5]

here were a lot of things I liked about Beyond the Ashes. Gerald, Ruby and Patrick all came alive on the page as well-developed characters with real hopes, dreams, and fears. None of them were perfect people (although Patrick came close!). Instead, they had faults and foibles just like we all do, with Gerald being uncertain about his cancer research, and Ruby not wanting to risk her heart again. They were backed up by strong secondary characters, including Robert and Abby from Out of the Ruins. The main characters and the minor characters were all excellent, and I hope we see more of them in future books (especially Patrick).

The writing was good, showing a depth of research and familiarity with early 20th Century medicine and the post-quake rebuilding of San Francisco, but without being intrusive. There were welcome flashes of humor and some seriously thought-provoking lines. I like that, when I have to stop and reread a line simply because the character says something clever or profound, like: “God doesn’t owe me answers. My job is to trust.” Indeed. “Somewhere along the line, I discovered marriage isn’t about the dress. It’s about the people.” Something too many people (and romance novels?) seem to forget. “Cutting was always the most frightening part of sewing—no going back.” I can relate to that!

I was fascinated by the use of x-rays as a method of treating cancer, although that was a bittersweet fascination: time has shown us how dangerous x-rays and other forms of radiation can be, and we still don’t have a cure for cancer over a hundred years later. And cigarettes to cure asthma? The mind boggles. I was also interested by Gerald and Robert using Novocaine: who knew it had been around for so long?

The plot, however, was a little uneven. Ruby originally came to San Francisco to watch out for her younger brother, and to work in the hospital. However, she seemed to spend less and less time in the hospital as her relationship with Gerald progressed, which didn’t seem like responsible nurse (or doctor) behavior. The pace slowed in the middle, then increased rapidly before reaching an abrupt end—perhaps too abrupt. It felt like I’d missed something.

There was a minor subplot about Abby and an old friend, and I wondered why that had been included—I thought the word count could have been used more profitably in showing Ruby’s inner journey, or ironing out the pacing issues. For example, there were two points where references were made to weeks or months having passed with the problem (first spiritual, then romantic) having been resolved in the time skipped over, which left me feeling as though there were missing pages detailing the resolution. I like to see the character transformation, especially when it’s the spiritual transformation. If a character comes to personal faith in God, I want to see the external events or inner journey which prompted that change. That, to me, is one of the strengths of Christian fiction, and I feel a little cheated if it’s skipped over.

Despite all that, I did enjoy Beyond the Ashes. It has excellent characters, solid writing, a strong Christian thread, plenty of conflict, and oodles of romantic tension. It’s made all the more tense because Ruby is a widow and so knows all about passion in marriage, though that never steps over the line into being inappropriate (although there are a couple of potentially awkward/inappropriate scenes as Ruby is living in Gerald’s house with his mother, his cousin, and her brother).

While Beyond the Ashes is a sequel, it can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone novel. Recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction.

Thanks to NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond The Ashes,***** book 2, Golden Gate Chronicles by Karen Barnett—
ARC from author and Netgalley

A devastating earthquake has hit 1906 San Francisco, leaving destruction all across town. Bachelor Dr. Gerald Larkspur had dreams of someday filling his home with a wife and children. Since his home was not damaged by the earthquake, his home now overflows with his extended family and friends until their own homes can be rebuilt.

Nurse Ruby Marshall is a young widow grieving the loss of her husband. Her doctor brother Robert invites her to move to San Francisco and stay with him. She is hoping to discover a new purpose by assisting Robert with his cancer research. However, she did not know that she would be staying with Robert in his partner's home, not their own apartment.

As San Francisco is being rebuilt, many are living on the streets in tents until shelter is built to hold them. As with any disaster of this kind, the risk of disease is a great threat to all. An outbreak of a potentially deadly disease breaks out in the tent community. Ruby and the doctors must find enough medicine to treat those who have contracted the disease before more die. Keeping the sick quarantined in such conditions is a great challenge.

Romance blooms even in these trying conditions. Ruby fights her feelings for Gerald, as she had vowed never to fall in love again and suffer more heartache. But her heart decides otherwise. When Gerald develops symptoms of the very disease he and Robert hope to cure, he makes Robert promise not to tell his family or Ruby. His secret doesn't stay a secret long. Should Gerald and Ruby dare to hope for a cure and do they take a chance at love despite the uncertain outcome?

There is much to like about this story. Each of the secondary characters brought added depth to the story line. Ruby's pain and grief of her husbands death was clearly shown. Her moving so far from all she was used to took courage and strength. I like that she didn't shy away from the challenges she faced. Gerald and Robert made a good team in their search to treat and cure cancer. Their heartache was felt when their patient's died as was their determination to find a cure. Being a retired Oncology RN, I enjoyed reading about the medicines of 1906. I found the struggles the doctors' faced, the research and early beginning treatments of cancer to be interesting. Along with struggles and disappointments they each face, the value and importance of friendships and families is evident, hardships, trials, humor, joy, forgiveness, faith and love is woven through the story in a believable way. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.

~~I received an e-book ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from the author through Netgalley for my honest review~~

[Nicki Olsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

_______________________________________________

*My Thoughts*

Wow, wow, wow! Confession time: This cover was such a stunner, I didn't even stop to read the description before signing on for this tour. I'm not a bit sorry I did either!

This was kind of a tough read for me. My dear grandmother passed away from a return battle with cancer when I was 6 months old. Though I never knew her in the sense that some of my cousins had, I've always felt that piece of me is missing. It's like a hole in your heart that you learn to live with but never quite get over. That is the reason this was so near to my heart. It was a hard thing to "witness" in my mind the pain and heartache of losing so many patients to the deadly disease and even harder when it came to Gerald.

Another thing that made it hard to stick with...I made a mistake. Something I call a "rookie reader" mistake. I was reading the ebook, typed in the location to find my spot and...landed at the end pages of the book. You wouldn't think one sentence could change the entire outlook a book. It can. That one deadly sentence kept the guess out of the book but I still loved it! In my minds eye, if I essentially ruin the book for myself and still loved it, starting from the beginning should be a real treat!

Ruby is my kind of girl!! This red haired girl was a can-do spitfire in her finest form! As if being a widow wasn't hard enough, in the midst of her pain, she did her best to help and to heal. One of my favorite "strong women"!

I'm completely impressed with Karen's ability to take horrific tragedies and still show God's light at the end of the tunnel. This first work of art is my first book that I've read of Karen's but it cannot be the last because it is such a gem!

____________________________________________________

*My overall thoughts*

Beyond the Ashes by Karen Barnett is a gem among the ashes for sure! Karen takes a hard tragedy and turns it into something of beauty, shining God's light along the way! An intricate web of beautiful characters, a broken city, and enough spunk to keep you on your toes!
__________________________________________

*My Rating*

I give Beyond the Ashes by Karen Barnett...



5 stars!!

*I received this book from litfuse, the publisher, and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.

http://bookreviewsforchristians.blogs...

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruby is the sister of Robert the main male character from book one. After losing her husband and seeing all her friends married and happy she decides to go live with Robert to free herself from all her well-meaning friends and family who want to see her remarry and to also find purpose for her life. What she did not expect was to find her brother engaged and not only living in the same house as his fiancé but also living with his single Doctor friend.

Gerald would be happy to remain a bachelor living alone in his house but due to the earthquake his home is not his own and now his friends single sister makes it even fuller. As much as he tried to ignore her he can’t help but find himself attracted to her but when side effects from his research threaten his health he wonders what God has in store for him.

What I liked: I really enjoyed this book. I liked all the characters. Ruby had been dealt a blow with the death of her husband and coming to live and work with her brother is a new start for her. When she starts to have feeling for Gerald she fights it because she is scared to death to lose someone else and by facing this fear she also starts to gain her faith in God again.

Gerald puts all his effort into his work and research but as he and Robert lose more patience’s and see possible health issues due to the x-ray machine they are using for research he starts to wonder if what he is doing is really helping people. Plus the more time he spends with Ruby the more he want a wife and family yet he worries his health could be in jeopardy.

I found this very real and down to earth. The post-earthquake setting lets readers see how much changed and how the city is working to rebuild and the conditions some people had to live and work in. The family dynamics with Robert and his fiancé’s upcoming wedding add some humor to the sometimes darker story.

What I didn’t like: The overall plot of this book was kind of sad. As much as I enjoyed it I just wanted the book to be over as I really don’t enjoy reading about sickness. The ending was okay but still left me feeling somewhat sad for the characters.

Overall this was an enjoyable book and a good sequel to the first book in the series. I highly recommend reading the first book as this book follows right after it. I have enjoyed learning about the 1906 earthquake and how the city dealt with and rebuilt after.

http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2015/0...

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barnett takes readers on an exciting ride through history in Beyond the Ashes! Set in San Francisco immediately after the earthquake of 1905, Barnett spins a fascinating story of loss, love, and rebirth. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about this unique time period, and Barnett's clear descriptions highlight the history of the day.

That historical setting made the story for me, but I became friends with Gerald and Ruby, too. I like the way that Gerald knew what he wanted and went after it. I appreciated his attentiveness and generosity with the people around him, too, and these traits made the story more exciting when they were directed at Ruby. She, too, worked hard to overcome past difficulties and to heal former hurts. Her strength of character and willingness to step outside of her comfort zone make her a slightly unpredictable but extremely likeable main character.

The science involved in the story also makes it stand out. Gerald and his partner spend their days doing cancer research, sure that they're on the verge of curing this horrible disease. Having never thought about the history of cancer treatment, I enjoyed learning about it in such a natural and fascinating way - and the scientific explanations about x-rays and treatments added depth and detail to the story in necessary ways. This attention to detail made the whole book sharper and more realistic.

This is the first book by Karen Barnett that I've read, but I'll definitely be on the lookout for more. Beyond the Ashes is a fantastic historical novel.

I received a free copy of Beyond the Ashes from LitFuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

[Hallie (Hallie Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is also posted on Book by Book.

The second in Karen Barnett’s Golden Gate Chronicles, Beyond the Ashes offers the perfect follow-up story to Out of the Ruins, revisiting both the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and early 1900s cancer treatments with another endearing romance. The story’s focus falls on Ruby Marshall, the older sister of Out of the Ruins’ Dr. Robert King, and Dr. Gerald Larkspur, Robert’s friend and mentor, as they learn to trust God with control and the future amidst the chaos and uncertainty of life. An all-around enjoyable historical story with plenty of romance and an encouraging spiritual message, Beyond the Ashes kept me intrigued and captivated from start to finish. I recommend it to fans of historical romance (it does help to read Out of the Ruins first, as Robert and Abby appear regularly throughout Beyond the Ashes) and now look forward to reading more from Karen Barnett.

Thanks to LitFuse Publicity Group, I received a copy of Beyond the Ashes and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable story set right after San Francisco's huge earthquake in the early 1900's. It was fascinating to learn more about what was going on in the city during that time, not only the makeshift homes and camps many people lived in because theirs were destroyed, but also the research being done on the use of x-rays on cancer. It was interesting to learn about their work. I liked revisiting the characters I enjoyed from book one and it was fun getting to know Gerald better and meeting Ruby. I liked both of them and could relate to Ruby's struggle to let God be in control. She'd already lost a husband and didn't know if she could trust God for her future. I admired how both of them were so selfless in caring for people, especially Gerald. I did get frustrated with how he wouldn't take care of himself, though. There were quite a few sweet romantic moments, including some humorous ones. This was a well-written story with a good mixture of history and romance. I'm looking forward to book three. I highly recommend it!

I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

[R.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author/publisher for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.

My very favorite book has a setting much like this one, where the town (Chicago) was completely burned to the ground and the characters worked together to bring restoration back to their home, so I thought that I would give this book a try in hopes that it would be as good as my favorite. I was not disappointed at all with Beyond the Ashes and in fact I have a new favorite book as well as a favorite author! Karen Barnett has a beautiful writing style that holds you in place as you read her carefully researched work of art. I absolutely loved her characters and the fact that there is no promise of a "happily-ever-after" just made it that much better. I am going to be (hopefully) buying the first book and can't wait until the next book in this series comes out!

Thank you for reading my review and have a blessed day.

http://acceleratethejesusmovement.wor...

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beauty of Beyond the Ashes extends well beyond its lovely cover! I loved this dramatic, emotional story and the spiritual messages that are woven through its tapestry.

Set in 1906 San Francisco, Karen Barnett transports readers to this historic city in the months following a devastating earthquake. I really enjoyed the descriptions of the city and its atmosphere as the community worked to rebuild and recover. I also enjoyed the medical details that were given regarding the research and procedures that were being used to fight cancer. This vivid imagery, coupled with excellent characterization, brought the story to life for me. Barnett deftly expresses the feelings and emotions of her characters, and I loved experiencing their journeys.

Beyond the Ashes is a captivating story, and I look forward to reading more of The Golden Gate Chronicles!

I received a complimentary copy of Beyond the Ashes through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an unbiased review. I appreciate the opportunity to read this story and share my thoughts.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fascinating time period and setting. The descriptions of the early use of x-ray technology to treat cancer patients makes me so grateful for the advances in technology and the sacrifices of the pioneers in the medical field to push the research forward. Ruby and Gerald were both a little difficult to like in the beginning- he was overworked and overwhelmed, she was uptight and grieving. But as a doctor and a nurse, they both have hearts to serve, and their compassionate care for the earthquake victims and patients in the hospital create a bond and show their strength of character. The principle of trusting in the Lord, no matter what life brings, is one that Ruby struggles with, and one that Gerald relies on as his health declines. Even though they are faced with serious trials ahead, the book ends on a note of hope and peace.

(Thank you to Litfuse Publicity and Abingdon Press for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

[Kiersti Giron · Rating 4 out of 5]

With her second novel in The Golden Gate Chronicles, Karen Barnett continues to surprise and delight, giving us a story that delves deeper than many Christian novels into real life faith struggles and questions. The challenges the lovable but very human Gerald and Ruby face challenged my own desire for things to wrap up with a tidy little bow--yet I was glad they didn't, for such is life. And as in Out of the Ruins, this story managed to both stretch and encourage my faith, reminding me that we receive no guarantees of life being easy or going the way we want it to...yet we do receive the absolute guarantee that the Lord will never leave or forsake us, and He does hold our lives very tenderly in His hands. With fascinating, well-researched historical details--from the stitching on a wedding dress to what was cutting-edge medicine in the early 1900s--and wonderfully real characters, Karen gives us a treat of a book once again.

[Charity Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of love and trust. Ruby is a young widow that is learning to find her way. She heads on out to work with her brother in the recently devastated San Francisco. After the 1906 fire destroyed much of the city, refugee camps and hospitals are in desperate need of help. She is determined to find her own way and not rely on a man.

Of course, once she is there she meets a Dr. that sends her heart racing! This is a beautiful story. I loved the characters. They were very relatable. There was a strange part at the end that wasn't ever cleared up. I wish that something would have been said about it, but that is just me. I do recommend this book. It is a really great read and held my attention throughout.

Thank you, Litfuse, for this great book! As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!!

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing! Beyond the Ashes, By: Karen Barnett
This is book two in The Golden Gate Chronicles series. I was drawn into this wonderful historical fiction romance right from the start. I was laughing and crying so much while reading this book. You will definitely need your sweet tea and some tissues while you read this captivating book. I didn’t want to put this book down. The characters and the settings were so real. I felt as though I was there in that time period experiencing the devastation, pain, heartache and love with them. Their will to help others that are in desperate need. I love the faith and struggles with faith that is entwined throughout this story. An excellent read! Be sure to order your copy today! 5 stars!

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for sharing my fair and honest opinion.

Though I have read a lot of Historical Christian Romance lately, this one is definitely a standout. The author had a way of giving voice to her characters with just the littlest touches that created a realistic edge to the story that drew me in from the start. Though this book was at times deeply emotional, it was also inspiring. Whether you are a historical romance fan or just a romance fan in general I think you will find this book to your liking. I highly recommend and look forward to more in the series!This review was originally posted on Electively Paige

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond the Ashes is Book #2 in the Golden Gate Chronicles by Karen Barnett. Set in the early 1900's, this book is just past the 'quake and details some of the infant steps of rebirth. We're again with Dr. Gerald Larkspur, and his friend and associate Dr. Robert King. In this book, Gerald and Robert's practice and research collide in their own lives. Without spoiling the story for others, I can say that one of the themes of the book is relevant to everyone; finding God's will for life rather than your own plans and hopes, and allowing God to be God of your future.

I enjoy Karen's writing style. She has brought this era to life for me. I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Victoria Brinius · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading "Beyond the Ashes" by author Karen Barnett and I really enjoyed it. I liked the storyline and the characters were great. This is a nice story of love, faith and the strong belief that everything will be okay. Ruby Marshall finds herself without a husband when he is killed. She moves to another place where her brother is to start over. While there she meets someone that she begins to like. Will they have a future? I was given this book by Litfuse Publicity Group and opinions are 100% my own. I give this book a 4/5.

[Wendy Andrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable read, a page-turner, in my opinion. It was a hard book to put down. I enjoy historical fiction.

I found it interesting to learn more about the early research of cancer, and felt at the edge of my seat while reading about Gerald and the crisis he faced, and whether the relationship between him and Ruby would have a chance to develop.

Frankly, I enjoyed it as much as Out of the Ruins. If you like historical fiction, you will enjoy this as well.

[Lisa Rupertus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! the book tells us the story of Ruby - a young widow and about how she has stopped dreaming and living life. Set in the early 1900 during the aftermath of San Francisco's big earthquake, the whole city is in a rebuilding place. Ruby has to come to terms with her loss and decide if she is willing to trust God and love again. This is book 2 in The Golden Gate Chronicles Series, but it can stand completely alone. I had no trouble jumping right into the story.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

See my review in the June issue of RT Book Reviews Magazine.

[Janka H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do you love - again - in the uncertain world? How do you trust when you have no power over the lives of the others - or worse, over your own?

A beautiful novel about re-building your life, and also a five star reading experience.

This is the second installment in the series Golden Gate Chronicles and while you can read it as a standalone novel, I would strongly suggest to read the first volume, as it is almost as good as this is!

Ruby is the young widow, used to take life the face-forward way. She needs a new purpose in her life, so she travels to San Francisco destroyed by the earthquake to help there with her nursing experiences. Little does she know that her brother Robert is not living on his own, but in a full house with his colleague Dr. Gerald Larkspur and his whole family (including the fiancée Abby, the heroine of the first installment). Ruby is at first shocked by the unexpected living arrangements, but she is fast to fall in love not with just her sister-to-be Abby, but also with the dashing young doctor (while clashing with him all the time!). But Ruby fears to experience another love, as there is no control over the course of life (as she very well knows, losing her young husband too soon) - so she pushes the equally smitten Gerald back. Or it is time to face her fears?
Gerald, a solid, predictable man (or better, as he wishes to be) experiences for the first time how much a female can bring into the man´s life - both fire and gentleness, challenge and peace, love and purpose. So when Ruby finally decides to trust God about his relationship, he is over the moon. Unless the scientific research backfires at him and he faces the very dark future.

This was a blast to read. The writing is top-notch with courage and maturity not often experienced in the Christian literature, while being the class act the whole time. The characters are facing the very real problems and I can relate to them very much (mainly with females here - their voices are very authentic!). The authoress doesn´t shy from elaborating the very human experiences - the tempations while being in love, the pride, the fear. And all that while gracing the pages with classy, but witty and even cheeky humour.

The series is also well-researched and brings to the table at least three things I have had a very little knowledge before - the San Francisco earthquake in 1906, the cancer research and the prejudices and even crimes against the Chinese community living there.

Recommended read.

[Laura Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Litfuse for this review copy.

My thoughts ~



Having been involved in the relief efforts after the catastrophic Joplin Tornado of 2011, I could relate a bit to the aftermath of destruction of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake in which this book was set. In some ways, it seemed realistic. In others, merely an idealized backdrop for a love story.



The characters are likeable. Ruby's character is strong and a bit defiant at times. I think that many women will identify with her desire to be the captain of her own destiny. Her brother, Robert, is driven and focused on his research work with x-ray machines and on his fiance Abby. Abby is a gentle, giving woman whose heart aches for the pain and suffering of those displaced by the earthquake. Gerald, their benefactor who took them in after the quake, is conflicted by Ruby's presence, by the struggle to cure cancer with x-rays, by guilt over his cousin's death, and by the symptoms of illness he is exhibiting.



I had some trouble getting started with the book. The initial chapters just didn't grab my interest. I think it may be, in part, because I've been reading a non-fiction book about the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The whole setting seemed unrealistic to me. After the first few chapters, I was able to put those thoughts aside and just enjoy the story for what it is. Further in, there were more realistic post earthquake scenes. There were some comical scenes, some intense scenes, and some unexpected scenes. The book did not take the same path that I expected it would.



By the time I was halfway through, I didn't want to stop reading. Ms. Barnett built to an excellent climax and a satisfying conclusion.



Faith and trust in God as well as living a life of service to God and man were main themes.



All in all I think that it's an enjoyable read. This is the second in The Golden Gate Chronicles series. I found that although the first book is referenced, it stands alone. Given the choice, I would read Out of the Ruins first.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second book in the Golden Gate Chronicles both for its historical events . . . the rebuilding of San Francisco and the use of x-ray machines and radiation in the detection and treatment of cancer . . . as well as the personal faith walks, of learning to over come fear through deeper faith. I appreciated that Barnett included little glimpses back to the first book which took place during the earth quake and in which the relationship between Robert and Abby developed. It had been quite awhile since I had read the first book, and to have natural moments of reflection through thoughts and conversation was very helpful to tie the two stories together in my mind.
Looking forward to the third in the series.