Eye of the Beholder: An Apron Strings Tea Tale

by Linda Shenton Matchett

191 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication June 30, 2026

About the author

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A self-professed history geek, she is a volunteer archivist and docent at the Wright Museum of World War II. Linda has published more than twenty-five books. When not writing, she enjoys exploring historical sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

Reviews

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye of the Beholder had me running the gamut of emotions. It is a delightful and inspiring read, but not without some sadness. The story revolved around a fair, Grace's food cart, and a man who became more important than she thought.

The descriptions of the extra people and the church setting added to the story. I loved the Christian aspect and the wonderful message in the story. The friendships made along the way were a joy to read about.

The incredible journeys of both main characters had me at the beginning. They had many layers, and I enjoyed watching them unfold. The ending was my absolute favorite. A great read and highly recommended.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye of the Beholder will definitely make you think and open your heart. Grace is reaching out to start her own business, but of course her brother has his own opinions on that subject. Grace always sees the good in people and when a man, Hank steps forward to help Grace at her tea cart, there's an instant spark. Hank is trying to help and move on, but there is something there, but can't believe someone like Grace would even have an interest in a disfigured man. It takes the power of God to open his eyes to see the truth.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review.

[Evelyn Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the legacy of Mrs Canfield’s Cookery Book continues, Grace not only discovered new (and delicious, I might add!) recipes, but found herself drawn to the scriptures and wisdom imparted throughout. How had she lived forty years not knowing the reality of her Saviour’s love? Opening A Cup of Grace at the fair not only was a step of faith, but might possibly the single most important step of her life toward a future of love and eternal bliss. Truly the author’s best work yet!

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic story about two people who feel that nobody could love the other. Then they bump into each other at the New York World’s Fair and their lives change, slowly but surely. She’s decided, at age 40, to go off on her own and open her own little business, a Tea Cart, selling homemade treats and goodies, as well as tea! It’s a huge success. He’s a groundskeeper who has such a disfigured face, from wounds received during the war, that he wears a bandanna to cover those scars. It’s such a superbly written story, that I hope all of my friends, family, and acquaintances buy this book!📕 ♥️