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Cutter's Creek #9
A Ruby Glows
Ruby’s heart froze as she threw her dead husband over the cliff.
When Beau walks into her life, one glance has her running from her past. He couldn’t want someone like her. It should be easy to avoid his quiet charm.
If he can convince her she’s a prize, not prey, he might have a chance. Beau’s captivated when Ruby scrambles from him whenever he gets too close. Her sweetness is an allure he can’t fight.
Can Beau convince Ruby she is beloved?
Don’t miss A Ruby Glows, the fifteenth romance in the Cutter’s Creek Series, by Kari Trumbo. If you like engaging, sweet stories that leave you wanting even more, then this historical Christian romance is just for you!
Scroll up to read more!
When Beau walks into her life, one glance has her running from her past. He couldn’t want someone like her. It should be easy to avoid his quiet charm.
If he can convince her she’s a prize, not prey, he might have a chance. Beau’s captivated when Ruby scrambles from him whenever he gets too close. Her sweetness is an allure he can’t fight.
Can Beau convince Ruby she is beloved?
Don’t miss A Ruby Glows, the fifteenth romance in the Cutter’s Creek Series, by Kari Trumbo. If you like engaging, sweet stories that leave you wanting even more, then this historical Christian romance is just for you!
Scroll up to read more!
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 3, 2017
178 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Kari Trumbo
126 books424 followersKari Trumbo is a writer of historical and contemporary Christian romance and romantic suspense. She's a mom to four wonderful children. When she isn't writing or editing, she loves to read, sing, and knit. Kari loves curling up with a fluffy blanket when winter hits. She makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband of over twenty years, two daughters, two sons, many cats and one sweet bunny.
She also writes women's fiction under the name Teri Blake.
She also writes women's fiction under the name Teri Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 21, 2017
A Ruby Glows by Kari Trumbo is a sweet story about a young woman who has been through unthinkable trials, thanks to her father’s bad decisions. Ruby isn’t very world-wise and her country way of speaking makes it difficult for her to fit in to Cutter’s Creek at first. It’s also, though, what draws Beau’s attention and he begins a steadfast pursuit of her heart. (Be prepared to swoon a little)
Ruby’s character is layered, her story complex, though some of her reactions seemed a little off to me. Beau is a typical Western hero, and I enjoyed getting to know him and Ruby better after first reading Dreams in Deadwood, the book that essentially comes next.
On that note, it was really interesting to me to go back and read A Ruby Glows after first Dreams in Deadwood. So in many ways it felt like a prequel to me, which I guess it really is. Especially since Dreams in Deadwood starts a spin-off series of sorts from A Ruby Glows. A lot that didn’t make sense to me in Dreams fell into place as I was reading Ruby and that feeling of “everyone knows everyone but i don’t” reduced considerably. So… that said … it would be a good idea to read this book before you start Trumbo’s new series!
Bottom Line: If you’re a fan of western romance, you’ll want to check out the Cutter’s Creek books by Kari Trumbo and the other contributing authors. A cast of colorful characters rounds out an emotional plot and a sweet story. The romance progresses naturally, and Beau’s heart of gold where Ruby is concerned is swoonworthy. A nice pick for an evening/weekend in!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
See my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Ruby’s character is layered, her story complex, though some of her reactions seemed a little off to me. Beau is a typical Western hero, and I enjoyed getting to know him and Ruby better after first reading Dreams in Deadwood, the book that essentially comes next.
On that note, it was really interesting to me to go back and read A Ruby Glows after first Dreams in Deadwood. So in many ways it felt like a prequel to me, which I guess it really is. Especially since Dreams in Deadwood starts a spin-off series of sorts from A Ruby Glows. A lot that didn’t make sense to me in Dreams fell into place as I was reading Ruby and that feeling of “everyone knows everyone but i don’t” reduced considerably. So… that said … it would be a good idea to read this book before you start Trumbo’s new series!
Bottom Line: If you’re a fan of western romance, you’ll want to check out the Cutter’s Creek books by Kari Trumbo and the other contributing authors. A cast of colorful characters rounds out an emotional plot and a sweet story. The romance progresses naturally, and Beau’s heart of gold where Ruby is concerned is swoonworthy. A nice pick for an evening/weekend in!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
See my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 24, 2017
A Ruby Glows is a beautiful tale of forgiveness and redemption. Ruby has all the reason in the world to be bitter and angry, yet she chooses to be kind instead. She's leery of others, men especially, but she is friendly enough and truly wants to fit in. She reminded me of a feral cat. You know how you're always trying to help them and you want to reassure them you're not going to hurt them but they look at you with wary eyes and run if you get to close? That's Ruby. She wants to be wanted and loved but her scars from her past keep her from truly trusting.
I just wanted to smack Beau! I'm sure his sister, May, felt the same way. He was so clueless as to his feelings. He was in tune to Ruby and her feelings and he went out of his way to be kind and considerate to her but he was the last to realize he had fallen in love! I love how he would do everything in his power to protect Ruby and see her happy. Beau really was a good guy and I was rooting for him to figure out his feelings and share them with Ruby.
I truly enjoyed A Ruby Glows and I hope you will too!
*I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
I just wanted to smack Beau! I'm sure his sister, May, felt the same way. He was so clueless as to his feelings. He was in tune to Ruby and her feelings and he went out of his way to be kind and considerate to her but he was the last to realize he had fallen in love! I love how he would do everything in his power to protect Ruby and see her happy. Beau really was a good guy and I was rooting for him to figure out his feelings and share them with Ruby.
I truly enjoyed A Ruby Glows and I hope you will too!
*I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
February 10, 2017
This is an emotional, sweet western romance. It hits right in the heart, making you wish Ruby and Beau would find one another and fall in love. Ms. Trumbo writes an emotional, richly historical tale that pulls you in and drags your heart and soul through the Wyoming sky.
I enjoyed this story, and I cannot wait to see what happens with Ruby, Beau, and all Ruby's sisters.
I enjoyed this story, and I cannot wait to see what happens with Ruby, Beau, and all Ruby's sisters.
May 22, 2017
3 Reasons to Love A Ruby Glows
A historical romance set in Montana, A Ruby Glows tells the story of a rather wounded, broken young woman—Ruby, of course. The book has quite the cast of characters who are seamlessly woven in and out of the story as their turn in the arc approaches and leaves. I’m not sure about the word count, but it read like a novella in that I got through it rather quickly. So… why would you love it?
Rich description:
It starts with the book synopsis. Look at this thing:
Ruby’s heart froze as she threw her dead husband over the cliff.
Genius! Kari Trumbo does a fabulous job of describing setting, characters, events—and all without torturing the reader with excess words. Nathaniel Hawthorne could have taken lessons from her in that respect. You know where you are and what it all looks like at any given moment without page after page of tedious detail that usually makes me want to pull out my hair. So, if you love rich description without excess verbosity, you’ll love that part of the book.
Interesting plots:
Not only is the main story arc an interesting idea, so are the subplots. I enjoyed seeing where they’d go and what would happen next. So if you like troubled women striving to overcome the things life has thrown at them and battered them with, there are at least three of those in here—all very different and semi-unique in how they are done.
Solid faith shown without preachiness:
One of my pet peeves is when Christianity in any and all of its forms is shoved down the throats of readers with an obvious attempt to drive someone to a particular doctrinal stance. I’d rather see them nudge the reader to understand why someone believes something or to the Word to learn what it says.
Look, I know sometimes authors, no matter how careful, prick a reader when they didn’t want to—make the reader feel as if they are being proselytized. I feel for authors because I know just how hard it is to show those other understandings or open those questions without being preachy. So, I have to give Trumbo huge kudos for managing that beautifully. She tackles faith issues in a matter-of-fact and respectful way without insulting those she obviously disagrees with. I thought it was beautifully done and NOT overdone. Seriously, the scene where Ruby speaks with the minister’s wife was my favorite part of the book.
So what might you not like?
Yeah, like every book, A Ruby Glows has things that some won’t enjoy. It’s a fact of fiction—someone won’t like something in every book. So, I thought I’d throw out what I didn’t like in an effort to explain my star rating.
Inconsistency of character:
Both of the main characters, Ruby and Beau, are uninterested in pursuing a relationship for opposite reasons. Now the book is obviously about how they do. You get that much from the synopsis. But I found them to both to say one thing but their actions show another. It wasn’t so much a back and forth indecisiveness. Instead, both of them said they wanted nothing while every action showed they did. If it had been just one of them, I might have called it a character flaw and it might not have bothered me. But it wasn’t. I actually found it quite implausible.
Speaking of implausibilities:
Some of the things Ruby was supposed to have said that made her lose a job for being too “backwoods”… Yeah. They sounded more like diner talk than backwoods (it may be authentic, btw. It just didn’t FEEL like it). The whole scene was created to get the character to where she needed to go. I get that. And it would have worked if the author hadn’t gone quite so far overboard with those “hick-isms.” There were a couple of over-the-top instances like that, and they really made the book hard to get through at times.
So, why my rating?
I gave A Ruby Glows three stars because Amazon defines that as “okay.” That fits the book as a whole for me. I did not DISlike it. In fact, did really like parts. But between “I liked it” and “It was okay” is this chasm it fits in somewhere. Goodreads says "okay" is 2 stars and that was much too low for this book. MUCH too low. So I went with 3 here, too. It could have been a GREAT book. Really. It could have. It had all the promise of it. But the things I mentioned and a few more just really spoiled the story enough for me that I couldn’t give it four stars alongside others that I said I “liked/really liked.”
I do recommend A Ruby Glows for anyone who loves clean romance and western/historical fiction. Based on the reviews I saw, if you love Trumbo’s work, you’ll absolutely love this book. It’s number fifteen in a series, but I didn’t feel “lost” at all. So, if my issues are things that don’t bother you, seriously—give the A Ruby Glows a chance. I am not sorry I requested a review copy from Celebrate Lit, and it was good enough to ensure that I will try another one.
A historical romance set in Montana, A Ruby Glows tells the story of a rather wounded, broken young woman—Ruby, of course. The book has quite the cast of characters who are seamlessly woven in and out of the story as their turn in the arc approaches and leaves. I’m not sure about the word count, but it read like a novella in that I got through it rather quickly. So… why would you love it?
Rich description:
It starts with the book synopsis. Look at this thing:
Ruby’s heart froze as she threw her dead husband over the cliff.
Genius! Kari Trumbo does a fabulous job of describing setting, characters, events—and all without torturing the reader with excess words. Nathaniel Hawthorne could have taken lessons from her in that respect. You know where you are and what it all looks like at any given moment without page after page of tedious detail that usually makes me want to pull out my hair. So, if you love rich description without excess verbosity, you’ll love that part of the book.
Interesting plots:
Not only is the main story arc an interesting idea, so are the subplots. I enjoyed seeing where they’d go and what would happen next. So if you like troubled women striving to overcome the things life has thrown at them and battered them with, there are at least three of those in here—all very different and semi-unique in how they are done.
Solid faith shown without preachiness:
One of my pet peeves is when Christianity in any and all of its forms is shoved down the throats of readers with an obvious attempt to drive someone to a particular doctrinal stance. I’d rather see them nudge the reader to understand why someone believes something or to the Word to learn what it says.
Look, I know sometimes authors, no matter how careful, prick a reader when they didn’t want to—make the reader feel as if they are being proselytized. I feel for authors because I know just how hard it is to show those other understandings or open those questions without being preachy. So, I have to give Trumbo huge kudos for managing that beautifully. She tackles faith issues in a matter-of-fact and respectful way without insulting those she obviously disagrees with. I thought it was beautifully done and NOT overdone. Seriously, the scene where Ruby speaks with the minister’s wife was my favorite part of the book.
So what might you not like?
Yeah, like every book, A Ruby Glows has things that some won’t enjoy. It’s a fact of fiction—someone won’t like something in every book. So, I thought I’d throw out what I didn’t like in an effort to explain my star rating.
Inconsistency of character:
Both of the main characters, Ruby and Beau, are uninterested in pursuing a relationship for opposite reasons. Now the book is obviously about how they do. You get that much from the synopsis. But I found them to both to say one thing but their actions show another. It wasn’t so much a back and forth indecisiveness. Instead, both of them said they wanted nothing while every action showed they did. If it had been just one of them, I might have called it a character flaw and it might not have bothered me. But it wasn’t. I actually found it quite implausible.
Speaking of implausibilities:
Some of the things Ruby was supposed to have said that made her lose a job for being too “backwoods”… Yeah. They sounded more like diner talk than backwoods (it may be authentic, btw. It just didn’t FEEL like it). The whole scene was created to get the character to where she needed to go. I get that. And it would have worked if the author hadn’t gone quite so far overboard with those “hick-isms.” There were a couple of over-the-top instances like that, and they really made the book hard to get through at times.
So, why my rating?
I gave A Ruby Glows three stars because Amazon defines that as “okay.” That fits the book as a whole for me. I did not DISlike it. In fact, did really like parts. But between “I liked it” and “It was okay” is this chasm it fits in somewhere. Goodreads says "okay" is 2 stars and that was much too low for this book. MUCH too low. So I went with 3 here, too. It could have been a GREAT book. Really. It could have. It had all the promise of it. But the things I mentioned and a few more just really spoiled the story enough for me that I couldn’t give it four stars alongside others that I said I “liked/really liked.”
I do recommend A Ruby Glows for anyone who loves clean romance and western/historical fiction. Based on the reviews I saw, if you love Trumbo’s work, you’ll absolutely love this book. It’s number fifteen in a series, but I didn’t feel “lost” at all. So, if my issues are things that don’t bother you, seriously—give the A Ruby Glows a chance. I am not sorry I requested a review copy from Celebrate Lit, and it was good enough to ensure that I will try another one.
May 31, 2017
"A Ruby Glows" by Kari Trumbo is the 15th book in the (Cutter's Creek) saga, There are 19 books in the saga. Ok, here is a shock for my blog followers, I have not read the first 14 books only the first three, but I am going to say if "A Ruby Glows" by Kari Trumbo is the only book you read in this saga I believe you will enjoy the series and get the full effect of the book. There are mentions of characters from the other books written by Kari Trumbo for this saga but it didn't leave me feeling like I had missed anything by not knowing these character's story before reading "A Ruby Glows". See, the shock!
This paragraph is from part of Kari's Trumbo's guest post on my blog ( I know if you follow my blog, you will get the whole post, but for my review on Amazon and Goodreads, I am including this.)
"Cutter’s Creek is a series written by myself and three other Christian authors. Though there are numbers on each book, you don’t have to read them in order to get into the series, in fact, since each author writes in their own time period it might be somewhat confusing. Especially if you like a consecutive story. However, they are all stand-alone books and can be read in any order. If you like to read them in date order, you’ll want to read Kit Morgan’s books first, then Vivi Holt, Annie Boone, and finally mine, that will put them roughly in time order." I have read the first three of Kit Morgan's and I will finish the series because that is how I am.
This book is a western love story but first Ruby must believe that she can trust Beau with her past secrets. I really like the name Beau for the hero in this story because he wants to be Ruby's beau( a play on words, I think it fits well.) This book mentions alcohol addiction and spousal abuse, not really in a lot of details but it is there!
There is another story developing within this story about a missing wife, that is left with a cliff hanger but I think we get the rest of that story in book 19.
I think Beau is my favorite character in this story because he searches for the truth and the character I hate is Ruby's father ( hey, it is fiction so I can hate someone right).
This book leaves you feeling that love can come after a bad childhood!
I am giving "A Ruby Grows" by Kari Trumbo 4 stars.
I was given a complimentary copy by Celebrate Lit and the author. These opinions are my own.
This paragraph is from part of Kari's Trumbo's guest post on my blog ( I know if you follow my blog, you will get the whole post, but for my review on Amazon and Goodreads, I am including this.)
"Cutter’s Creek is a series written by myself and three other Christian authors. Though there are numbers on each book, you don’t have to read them in order to get into the series, in fact, since each author writes in their own time period it might be somewhat confusing. Especially if you like a consecutive story. However, they are all stand-alone books and can be read in any order. If you like to read them in date order, you’ll want to read Kit Morgan’s books first, then Vivi Holt, Annie Boone, and finally mine, that will put them roughly in time order." I have read the first three of Kit Morgan's and I will finish the series because that is how I am.
This book is a western love story but first Ruby must believe that she can trust Beau with her past secrets. I really like the name Beau for the hero in this story because he wants to be Ruby's beau( a play on words, I think it fits well.) This book mentions alcohol addiction and spousal abuse, not really in a lot of details but it is there!
There is another story developing within this story about a missing wife, that is left with a cliff hanger but I think we get the rest of that story in book 19.
I think Beau is my favorite character in this story because he searches for the truth and the character I hate is Ruby's father ( hey, it is fiction so I can hate someone right).
This book leaves you feeling that love can come after a bad childhood!
I am giving "A Ruby Grows" by Kari Trumbo 4 stars.
I was given a complimentary copy by Celebrate Lit and the author. These opinions are my own.
May 25, 2017
"Ruby's heart froze as she threw her dead husband over the cliff."
This line of the synopsis hooked me. I signed up for the tour wanting to know more--like did she kill her husband? I couldn't wait and in many ways I wasn't disappointed.
What I Loved:
The plots and subplots kept you guessing and wondering. In fact, the book didn't go in the direction I expected, which is always a plus. My favorite character was Beau. While he doesn't want to get tied down to a wife, he's willing to do anything for Ruby. He's willing to go above and beyond to help her. He's the kind of hero you root for. Ruby is the kind of heroine you feel for.
Kari Trumbo wrote beautiful descriptions of the setting and history without overdoing it. One of my dislikes of historical fiction is when authors get so focused on the history that I feel like the plot takes a back burner to the history details. This didn't happen in A Ruby Glows.
What I Didn't Like:
I enjoyed every minute of reading this book, but there were a couple aspects I didn't like. The ending seemed rushed. I struggled to understand how Beau and Ruby got from point A to point B. I'm trying to be careful not to give any spoilers, but I expected more to happen at the end and I felt disappointed when it didn't.
The dialogue in some places didn't seem consistent. At times, I noticed speech patterns that didn't seem to match the time, but then they'd say something later that seemed right on. Each time this happened, it tugged me out of the story.
I would give this book a three star review. I liked it, but it wasn't my favorite. It is the fifteenth book in a series, but I didn't feel like I missed anything since I hadn't read the first fourteen.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. A review was not required. All opinions are my own.
This line of the synopsis hooked me. I signed up for the tour wanting to know more--like did she kill her husband? I couldn't wait and in many ways I wasn't disappointed.
What I Loved:
The plots and subplots kept you guessing and wondering. In fact, the book didn't go in the direction I expected, which is always a plus. My favorite character was Beau. While he doesn't want to get tied down to a wife, he's willing to do anything for Ruby. He's willing to go above and beyond to help her. He's the kind of hero you root for. Ruby is the kind of heroine you feel for.
Kari Trumbo wrote beautiful descriptions of the setting and history without overdoing it. One of my dislikes of historical fiction is when authors get so focused on the history that I feel like the plot takes a back burner to the history details. This didn't happen in A Ruby Glows.
What I Didn't Like:
I enjoyed every minute of reading this book, but there were a couple aspects I didn't like. The ending seemed rushed. I struggled to understand how Beau and Ruby got from point A to point B. I'm trying to be careful not to give any spoilers, but I expected more to happen at the end and I felt disappointed when it didn't.
The dialogue in some places didn't seem consistent. At times, I noticed speech patterns that didn't seem to match the time, but then they'd say something later that seemed right on. Each time this happened, it tugged me out of the story.
I would give this book a three star review. I liked it, but it wasn't my favorite. It is the fifteenth book in a series, but I didn't feel like I missed anything since I hadn't read the first fourteen.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. A review was not required. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2018
A second chance sweet love story!
A Ruby Glows is another sweet western romance in the Cutter’s Creek Series. A unique and captivating story with romance, acceptance and a happy-ending that we all have come to expect. This is another story that I had a hard time putting down. It definitely was a story with many different “feelies” along the way. I loved how two people stepped outside of their comfort zone and learned to love. I hated that Ruby had to go through the hardships she did, a father that seemingly didn’t care, and yet she came out stronger than she thought she was. Beau is the perfect companion to Ruby and proves that he will go to any lengths to make Ruby happy and give her what she needs and wants. He has such as sweet huge heart that will melt your heart and have you fall in love with him.
The characters are well developed, engaging and realistic. It is easy to connect with the characters. They have their flaws just as we all do which makes them even more realistic and easy to like. They will quickly become like one of your friends, neighbors and family. I will definitely continue to read the series to see what happens with the rest of the characters.
Kari Trumbo is a talented author that gets better and better. She has a gift for writing entertaining and sweet stories. I have read several books by her and have not been disappointed yet! She has quickly become one of my go-to authors that I really enjoy reading. I recommend this book and series to anyone that enjoys reading a clean western romance with a delightful ending. This book is part of a series; however, it can be read truly as a stand-a-lone. If you are looking for a good series than Cutter’s Creek is a great place to start.
A Ruby Glows is another sweet western romance in the Cutter’s Creek Series. A unique and captivating story with romance, acceptance and a happy-ending that we all have come to expect. This is another story that I had a hard time putting down. It definitely was a story with many different “feelies” along the way. I loved how two people stepped outside of their comfort zone and learned to love. I hated that Ruby had to go through the hardships she did, a father that seemingly didn’t care, and yet she came out stronger than she thought she was. Beau is the perfect companion to Ruby and proves that he will go to any lengths to make Ruby happy and give her what she needs and wants. He has such as sweet huge heart that will melt your heart and have you fall in love with him.
The characters are well developed, engaging and realistic. It is easy to connect with the characters. They have their flaws just as we all do which makes them even more realistic and easy to like. They will quickly become like one of your friends, neighbors and family. I will definitely continue to read the series to see what happens with the rest of the characters.
Kari Trumbo is a talented author that gets better and better. She has a gift for writing entertaining and sweet stories. I have read several books by her and have not been disappointed yet! She has quickly become one of my go-to authors that I really enjoy reading. I recommend this book and series to anyone that enjoys reading a clean western romance with a delightful ending. This book is part of a series; however, it can be read truly as a stand-a-lone. If you are looking for a good series than Cutter’s Creek is a great place to start.
May 22, 2017
There are characters who come out stronger after going through hard times, and there are characters who just seem to give up. I'm glad Ruby didn't totally give up on herself after what she had been through. I like to see a female lead who is not afraid to take matters into their own hands. Ruby worked hard in Cutter's Creek, and I felt like she really started coming into her own when she started working with Maddie. The way she presented herself, and the way the author wrote her, made me admire her a little, not feel sorry for her (and she wouldn't want someone to feel sorry for her!). If she had not been written as a strong character, I don't think I would have liked the book at all.
I enjoyed reading the progression of Ruby and Beau's relationship. It wasn't too fast like you see in some love stories, nor did it take up every page of the book. I want my romantic storylines to have some depth to them, not all lovey dovey, and this book did a great job in providing depth with the addition of other characters and some small subplots. I appreciated Beau's cautiousness when it came to Ruby too. He didn't push her, instead allowed her time and space and seemed to care for her well being. Beau is definitely a little swoon-worthy ;)
This is a sweet, clean read. Although considered a historical story, I think even those people who do not traditionally like historical fiction will like it. The historic setting is really more of a backdrop in this story, not the center stage. It could just be the book that makes you second guess why you haven't read historical fiction before!
I enjoyed reading the progression of Ruby and Beau's relationship. It wasn't too fast like you see in some love stories, nor did it take up every page of the book. I want my romantic storylines to have some depth to them, not all lovey dovey, and this book did a great job in providing depth with the addition of other characters and some small subplots. I appreciated Beau's cautiousness when it came to Ruby too. He didn't push her, instead allowed her time and space and seemed to care for her well being. Beau is definitely a little swoon-worthy ;)
This is a sweet, clean read. Although considered a historical story, I think even those people who do not traditionally like historical fiction will like it. The historic setting is really more of a backdrop in this story, not the center stage. It could just be the book that makes you second guess why you haven't read historical fiction before!
January 28, 2018
A Ruby Glows: A Cutter’s Creek Romance; Prequel to Seven Brides Series is by Kari Trumbo. This begins the series about the seven sisters of the Arnsby family. Their father was extremely disappointed that he did not have a son and he began drinking and making moonshine. He saw his daughters as simply mouths to feed and was anxious to get them off his hands. He decided to marry them off as would be best for his interests. Ruby at eighteen was the first.
Ruby had spent her life until now taking care of her sisters. They stayed as far away from their father as was possible. Then one day, her Father gave her to Arnold Gresham, a drunkard who was quite old. By marrying Ruby, his supply of moonshine was guaranteed. Ruby did not get a say in her marriage, not even to say “I do”. Her Father said the vows in place of a preacher. As far as Ruby knew, she was legally married; but she was sure he would never touch her. She would make sure of that. Nine months later, during the harsh winter, Arnold froze to death and Ruby headed towards civilization. Now she was living in Cutter’s Creek after having been picked up nearly freezing by Josiah Hunter. At Josiah’s wedding to Penny Hanover, Ruby met Beau Rockford. Although Ruby swore she would never marry again, she is attracted to Beau. Can he break through Ruby’s barriers and get to know the real Ruby? Can Ruby find a way to save her sister’s from the same fate?
Ruby had spent her life until now taking care of her sisters. They stayed as far away from their father as was possible. Then one day, her Father gave her to Arnold Gresham, a drunkard who was quite old. By marrying Ruby, his supply of moonshine was guaranteed. Ruby did not get a say in her marriage, not even to say “I do”. Her Father said the vows in place of a preacher. As far as Ruby knew, she was legally married; but she was sure he would never touch her. She would make sure of that. Nine months later, during the harsh winter, Arnold froze to death and Ruby headed towards civilization. Now she was living in Cutter’s Creek after having been picked up nearly freezing by Josiah Hunter. At Josiah’s wedding to Penny Hanover, Ruby met Beau Rockford. Although Ruby swore she would never marry again, she is attracted to Beau. Can he break through Ruby’s barriers and get to know the real Ruby? Can Ruby find a way to save her sister’s from the same fate?
May 29, 2017
Kari Trumbo is a new-to-me author but I tend to enjoy most western novels so I agreed to review “A Ruby Glows”. Apparently this book is one of a series but I had no problem jumping right into the story. For the most part the story flowed fairly well. Aspects that seemed to annoy some other reviewers didn’t detract from my enjoyment. I felt that the plot was unique and I liked the two primary characters enough to want to know how their story would end. The unobtrusive addition of a strong message of faith was also a plus.
I appreciated that the romance did not overwhelm the plot but developed slowly and naturally between Ruby and Beau. Beau’s determination that he was not the marrying kind kept him oblivious to his attraction to Ruby even though it was pretty obvious to everyone else. Ruby was pretty hard on herself because of her past so that added some difficulties to the relationship also. As expected everything works out toward the end but as is often the case, it seemed to be tied up in a neat little package much too quickly. Nevertheless, “A Ruby Glows” was a satisfying read and I am definitely interested in reading more of this author’s books when I can find the time.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
I appreciated that the romance did not overwhelm the plot but developed slowly and naturally between Ruby and Beau. Beau’s determination that he was not the marrying kind kept him oblivious to his attraction to Ruby even though it was pretty obvious to everyone else. Ruby was pretty hard on herself because of her past so that added some difficulties to the relationship also. As expected everything works out toward the end but as is often the case, it seemed to be tied up in a neat little package much too quickly. Nevertheless, “A Ruby Glows” was a satisfying read and I am definitely interested in reading more of this author’s books when I can find the time.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
May 19, 2017
I picked this book because I like the title. I have to say, I liked Ruby. In the town of Cutter Creek things are happening, among them Beau and Ruby's romance. Ruby has a past she is dealing with, running from, hiding and more. Beau hasn't ever really fallen for anyone before, but Ruby has his full attention. Meanwhile, there is another good mystery occurring and let me just say that running from things doesn't usually get you far. I liked Lily, and Beau and Ruby. Ruby's story does tug at the heart. Ruby has to work her way through so much. Forgiveness and healing, her self-worth and self-esteem to name a few things.
This is my first book by this author, it was a very fast read. My only aggravation was the ending arrived too soon! It wasn't a cliffhanger, but I still don't know how I got to the end that fast. A strong read with a good bit of emotional pull.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. I wasn't required to leave a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is my first book by this author, it was a very fast read. My only aggravation was the ending arrived too soon! It wasn't a cliffhanger, but I still don't know how I got to the end that fast. A strong read with a good bit of emotional pull.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. I wasn't required to leave a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2017
One of the best things about being a part of all the book reviews and tours is getting to 'meet' new authors. I had not heard of Kari before reading this book. I was immediately lost into the pages and loved every bit of it. This book is a great reminder of how sometimes we get hurt, trust broken or some other human event happens and we need to forgive and be kind through it. I could feel Ruby's pain. I myself have had a past where people hurt me over and over again.
The way that Kari has written these characters they seem so real. I did not like Beau at first - and I wanted to take him by his shoulders and shake him. I just wanted to yell 'WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING" DON'T FIGHT IT!!!
I really enjoyed reading this story. I look forward to more from the author.
I was provided a copy of the book through Celebrate Lit Blogger program. All opinions are my own.
The way that Kari has written these characters they seem so real. I did not like Beau at first - and I wanted to take him by his shoulders and shake him. I just wanted to yell 'WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING" DON'T FIGHT IT!!!
I really enjoyed reading this story. I look forward to more from the author.
I was provided a copy of the book through Celebrate Lit Blogger program. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2017
Kari Trumbo is a gifted writer. This is the first book of hers I’ve read, and I’ve definitely become a fan of her writing!
The pace of A Ruby Glows is steady until part of the way through chapter 18 when it quickens to bring the reader to a lovely conclusion that leads well into the next story in the series. This is an enjoyable read one can savor slowly or enjoy nonstop.
A variety of carefully written characters with enough backstory to make them believable. Delightful descriptions throughout. This particular book contains a light faith message and chaste, while historically appropriate, romantic themes.
I genuinely enjoyed the entire book = 5 stars!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own
The pace of A Ruby Glows is steady until part of the way through chapter 18 when it quickens to bring the reader to a lovely conclusion that leads well into the next story in the series. This is an enjoyable read one can savor slowly or enjoy nonstop.
A variety of carefully written characters with enough backstory to make them believable. Delightful descriptions throughout. This particular book contains a light faith message and chaste, while historically appropriate, romantic themes.
I genuinely enjoyed the entire book = 5 stars!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own
May 15, 2017
Kari is a new author to me. YAY!!! I love to read
new authors in the Christian genre. This was such
a moving story. I enjoyed the book. I love Ruby and
Beau and how God brings them together. I like how
it addresses rejection, feelings of being unloved,
unable to help family, and purpose. Can Beau convince
Ruby that she is loved, wanted, helpful and she has
a purpose? Will it be a long time lesson or a short one?
Ruby was an encouraging character, whenever she was
knocked down, she got back up. When faced with a problem
she didn’t back down but tackled it. She learns that God loves
everyone and they have a purpose.
Please, read the book! I’ll be reading more of her books.
Blessings,
Karen Hadley
Rating: 5*
I received this book as a gift and all opinions are my own.
new authors in the Christian genre. This was such
a moving story. I enjoyed the book. I love Ruby and
Beau and how God brings them together. I like how
it addresses rejection, feelings of being unloved,
unable to help family, and purpose. Can Beau convince
Ruby that she is loved, wanted, helpful and she has
a purpose? Will it be a long time lesson or a short one?
Ruby was an encouraging character, whenever she was
knocked down, she got back up. When faced with a problem
she didn’t back down but tackled it. She learns that God loves
everyone and they have a purpose.
Please, read the book! I’ll be reading more of her books.
Blessings,
Karen Hadley
Rating: 5*
I received this book as a gift and all opinions are my own.
May 30, 2017
This was the first time I had read anything by Kari Trumbo and it is the 15th book she has written. I was very impressed with her character interaction and the emotions she was able to convey.
Ruby has a past and like many characters looking for redemption, she doesn't know that she is in need, or able to receive the gift. She is very fearful of men, and rightly so her past had abuse both emotional and physical, leading her to feel that no man could be good. Her emotions and feelings pulled on my heart strings, I felt for Ruby. I was cheering for her through the book. She grows which is a huge aspect of the story, the growth of Ruby leads everyone to a happier place.
Full Review: https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
Ruby has a past and like many characters looking for redemption, she doesn't know that she is in need, or able to receive the gift. She is very fearful of men, and rightly so her past had abuse both emotional and physical, leading her to feel that no man could be good. Her emotions and feelings pulled on my heart strings, I felt for Ruby. I was cheering for her through the book. She grows which is a huge aspect of the story, the growth of Ruby leads everyone to a happier place.
Full Review: https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
September 19, 2020
Ruby and Beau 💞
Sweet, romantic story of a woman found Josiah Williams, living by herself in the woods (you need to read A Penny Shines to get the background on that!). Ruby has sworn off men after living with her horrible father and what he did to her. Unfortunately, she didn't plan on meeting the handsome and mysterious Beau... I loved his character from A Penny Shines, so I had jumped to this book to see what happens!
I don't want to give any spoilers, but it was a very good read with lots of romance, suspense and mystery. The ending was a bit abrupt for my liking, but I do see there is another series that picks up with what happens at the end of this one. However, I wish there would have been more closure.
Sweet, romantic story of a woman found Josiah Williams, living by herself in the woods (you need to read A Penny Shines to get the background on that!). Ruby has sworn off men after living with her horrible father and what he did to her. Unfortunately, she didn't plan on meeting the handsome and mysterious Beau... I loved his character from A Penny Shines, so I had jumped to this book to see what happens!
I don't want to give any spoilers, but it was a very good read with lots of romance, suspense and mystery. The ending was a bit abrupt for my liking, but I do see there is another series that picks up with what happens at the end of this one. However, I wish there would have been more closure.
May 29, 2017
I enjoyed this story. This is book 15 of a series based in Cutter's Creek but you don't have to have read any of the previous books to enjoy this one. This was the first book that I have read by this author and I hope to read more of this series. I really liked Ruby and Beau. They had many of the same qualities. I received an ebook copy of this from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
December 3, 2017
Prequel to the Seven Brides of South Dakota series
I really enjoyed this book! I had started the Seven Brides of South Dakota series, but felt that I was missing something. Then I discovered that this book was a prequel to that series! Ruby is one of eight sisters and they are the Seven brides! Now I need to go find a book about the mother of the girls!!
I really enjoyed this book! I had started the Seven Brides of South Dakota series, but felt that I was missing something. Then I discovered that this book was a prequel to that series! Ruby is one of eight sisters and they are the Seven brides! Now I need to go find a book about the mother of the girls!!
February 20, 2020
Wonderful beginning!
I read this backwards as I had finished the series of seven brides, and came back to finish with Ruby's story! It explains Beau much better and gives you lots of family background. And as always, a lovely sweet story of finding redemption and true love! Loved it!
I read this backwards as I had finished the series of seven brides, and came back to finish with Ruby's story! It explains Beau much better and gives you lots of family background. And as always, a lovely sweet story of finding redemption and true love! Loved it!
January 17, 2021
A Ruby Glows
Another great book in this series of Cutter Creeks citizens. Ruby a young girl whose father trades her for some debt an old drunk owed him for. Ruby has seven sisters she is forced to leave behind when she is supposedly married to Arnold a drunken friend of her father’s. THIS IS MY REVIEW AND MINE ALONE. NORMA Gorrill
Another great book in this series of Cutter Creeks citizens. Ruby a young girl whose father trades her for some debt an old drunk owed him for. Ruby has seven sisters she is forced to leave behind when she is supposedly married to Arnold a drunken friend of her father’s. THIS IS MY REVIEW AND MINE ALONE. NORMA Gorrill
July 5, 2017
Learning to trust
Ruby comes from a large family of girls and is given to an old drunk by her father to get her out of his home. She must learn that she can trust again and can be loved.
Ruby comes from a large family of girls and is given to an old drunk by her father to get her out of his home. She must learn that she can trust again and can be loved.
January 17, 2019
Great story
Great story full of lots of excitement of how mean people can be and how wonderful people can be. How love can change people for the better. How God works miracles in people's lives.
Great story full of lots of excitement of how mean people can be and how wonderful people can be. How love can change people for the better. How God works miracles in people's lives.
July 9, 2022
Ruby had a bad experience with marriage/love and doesn't want anything to do with either one. She meets Beau but can he change her mind?
Another fantastic installment in the Return to Cutter's Creek with old beloved characters and some new ones.
Another fantastic installment in the Return to Cutter's Creek with old beloved characters and some new ones.
June 29, 2017
Exciting
Threads tied together, New characters introduced, familiar characters interacting and love. Always finding love in Cutter's Creek.
I will read them all!
Threads tied together, New characters introduced, familiar characters interacting and love. Always finding love in Cutter's Creek.
I will read them all!
December 29, 2017
Loved it!
Ruby is a fantastic character, and so is Beau. I am so glad they got a book, and as a couple too!
Ruby is a fantastic character, and so is Beau. I am so glad they got a book, and as a couple too!
April 30, 2018
Great story
I read the next series first but I'm glad I went back and read Ruby's story.. I will have to read the rest of this series when I get a chance.
I read the next series first but I'm glad I went back and read Ruby's story.. I will have to read the rest of this series when I get a chance.
July 13, 2018
Ruby
I loved this book! It wasn’t too fast paced or too slow of a read. It was a nice clean read.
I loved this book! It wasn’t too fast paced or too slow of a read. It was a nice clean read.
January 2, 2018
At a still-tender age, Ruby's father 'gave her away' (snort) to a man who certainly didn't treat her how she deserved.
After her 'husband's' death, Ruby has a hard time trusting men...and who can blame her! Beau is determined to show her that she is worthy of his love.
This was my first book from this author, and I immediately went on a binge. I love it when I don't see things coming, and Ms. Trumbo seems to excel at keeping me on my toes - not an easy achievement!
After her 'husband's' death, Ruby has a hard time trusting men...and who can blame her! Beau is determined to show her that she is worthy of his love.
This was my first book from this author, and I immediately went on a binge. I love it when I don't see things coming, and Ms. Trumbo seems to excel at keeping me on my toes - not an easy achievement!
January 11, 2017
Each story that I read by this author is great. In A Ruby Glows, Ruby finds herself forced to be married to an older man who doesn't respect her or even know her. The marriage is arranged by Ruby's father. But, is it a true and legal marriage? Only time will tell. Sadness and low self esteem cause Ruby to doubt her worth. She meets Beau and her life and the lives of her sisters and mother are forever changed. This story deals with trust, forgiveness of self and of others and finding true love. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more by author Kari Trumbo. I received a copy of this story from the author and this is my honest opinion.
February 14, 2017
A Good, Clean Historical Romance
I loved how the couple fell in love- a little bit at a time.
The story wasn't too fast or slow and it kept my interest the entire time. I read it in five hours.
If you like clean historical Western romances then this is the book for you.
I loved how the couple fell in love- a little bit at a time.
The story wasn't too fast or slow and it kept my interest the entire time. I read it in five hours.
If you like clean historical Western romances then this is the book for you.
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