A Blessing in Disguise

by Elvi Rhodes

Young, attractive, a widow with a ten-year-old daughter—Venus Stanton was certainly not the vicar that the traditional parish of Thurston had been expecting. Venus had to endure curiosity, misunderstandings, and even downright hostility. But she also found warmth, friendship, and kindness—sometimes from the most unexpected quarters.

469 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2003

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.
An interesting tale of Venus, A Vicar. After her husband passed away, She became Vicar of a church, and not everyone is accepting of Female Priests. This is all about the Parish and their families. Whilst an enjoyable story, I didn't like reading the B word that was in this. I also, only gave it 3.5 stars as I felt the story flagged about half way through, but got more interesting towards the end,and felt it then ended abruptly. I Don't know if there is a follow up? I read this on my Kindle.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written portrayal of the issues and joys that Venus faces as she settles into life as the new vicar of Thurston. The story tended to rumble on a little but was a very accurate reflection on the inner sanctum of church and it's workings. Many of the issues, phrases and debates I have heard in my own church/parish! Not sure how interesting the book would be to a non church goer.

[Liza Tunnicliffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meggiemay

I loved this book, the author is very knowledgeable about Church. It has a good cosy feeling about it. The characters all grow on us both good and bad. A really happy book to read

[Lynn Hutchinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed this book, it was interesting to learn more about the life of a female vicar.

[Damaskcat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Venus has is newly appointed as parish priest. She is a widow with a young daughter and she has to try to come to terms with the recent death of her husband, her new parishioners’ curiosity and in some cases antagonism, and her daughter’s dislike of her new home. On the plus side her parents are supportive and she soon makes friends in the parish.

I thought this book started off well but flagged towards the middle. It is an interesting and well written story and Venus is a likeable and admirable character. I thought the other characters were well drawn too but something didn’t quite click with me and I found it a chore to finish the book. Others may well enjoy it.

[Kay Wells · Rating 2 out of 5]

did not enjoy this book as much as the author's recent books read. However nearly read them all and there is quite a lot.