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Each Perfect Gift
What do you do when the sins of your past rise from the dead?
Ben Picoletti’s conversion astounded the little town of Chetham, Rhode Island – and no one more than the pastor’s daughter, whose heart Ben seeks to win… despite his shameful history. After all, the cross of Christ has removed Ben’s sins as far as the east is from the west, hasn’t it?
Yet, as Christmas 1937 draws near, Ben’s past returns to trouble him – and to force Ben to grapple with the practical meaning of forgiveness and grace in his own life… and in the lives of those around him.
A story for anyone who has ever been haunted by the consequences of choices they once made, Each Perfect Gift brings a message of the true redemption that is found in Christ alone.
Each Perfect Gift is the first story in the series A LEGACY OF GRACE, an off-shoot of the original A TIME OF GRACE series, featuring beloved Grace Picoletti and Paulie Giorgi. If you crave emotional, old-fashioned stories with strong spiritual heart, a reaffirmation of God's continual work in everyday people's lives and hearts, and memorable characters whose redemption is deep and realistic, you've come to the right place!
Ben Picoletti’s conversion astounded the little town of Chetham, Rhode Island – and no one more than the pastor’s daughter, whose heart Ben seeks to win… despite his shameful history. After all, the cross of Christ has removed Ben’s sins as far as the east is from the west, hasn’t it?
Yet, as Christmas 1937 draws near, Ben’s past returns to trouble him – and to force Ben to grapple with the practical meaning of forgiveness and grace in his own life… and in the lives of those around him.
A story for anyone who has ever been haunted by the consequences of choices they once made, Each Perfect Gift brings a message of the true redemption that is found in Christ alone.
Each Perfect Gift is the first story in the series A LEGACY OF GRACE, an off-shoot of the original A TIME OF GRACE series, featuring beloved Grace Picoletti and Paulie Giorgi. If you crave emotional, old-fashioned stories with strong spiritual heart, a reaffirmation of God's continual work in everyday people's lives and hearts, and memorable characters whose redemption is deep and realistic, you've come to the right place!
- GenresChristmas
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2019
132 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Alicia G. Ruggieri
12 books126 followersAlicia G. Ruggieri grew up breathing in the salty air of coastal New England. She now writes grace-filled, Christ-centered fiction from her home in Wisconsin, where she lives with her husband and sweet second-hand mutt. She loves old graveyards, dusty libraries, and excellent cannolis ~ not necessarily in that order.
To learn more about Alicia’s books and to connect with her, visit: www.aliciagruggieri.com and www.facebook/AliciaGRuggieri.
To learn more about Alicia’s books and to connect with her, visit: www.aliciagruggieri.com and www.facebook/AliciaGRuggieri.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 29, 2019
I absolutely loved continuing the Picoletti/Giorgi families’ stories in this book! Ben was always the character that held my compassion and interest, so I was eager to see a book wholly dedicated to him. I’ll confess, this one took some turns I wasn’t exactly anticipating, but it made for a very good subject that believers should deal with in the reality of their past choices.
When I pick up a book by Alicia, I know that she’s going to have a very solid, Biblical message that gets to the core of the issue. She dealt with some touchy topics in here (recommended for conservative readers 18+), but displayed her characters in both a very real yet very Christian fashion. I absolutely loved that others could see the different in the “old Ben” and “new Ben.” I also really loved Annie’s story. She was a genuine character, even if she was genuinely wrong at times.
The salvation message was very clear and also very realistic—which is something I’m a tad picky on. Just because someone was presented with the truth did not mean they accepted it, and I like that presentation of reality.
Honestly, I didn’t love Betty. To me, she seemed almost stereotypical PK (preacher’s kid)—this is coming from me being a PK myself. I totally understand her temptations to pride and self-righteousness, having been raised in a godly family, but I really couldn’t empathize with her even when I tried. I think my favorite scene with her was when she actually seemed human, during the Christmas play.
All in all, though, this was a good and undeniably Christian read.
*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*
When I pick up a book by Alicia, I know that she’s going to have a very solid, Biblical message that gets to the core of the issue. She dealt with some touchy topics in here (recommended for conservative readers 18+), but displayed her characters in both a very real yet very Christian fashion. I absolutely loved that others could see the different in the “old Ben” and “new Ben.” I also really loved Annie’s story. She was a genuine character, even if she was genuinely wrong at times.
The salvation message was very clear and also very realistic—which is something I’m a tad picky on. Just because someone was presented with the truth did not mean they accepted it, and I like that presentation of reality.
Honestly, I didn’t love Betty. To me, she seemed almost stereotypical PK (preacher’s kid)—this is coming from me being a PK myself. I totally understand her temptations to pride and self-righteousness, having been raised in a godly family, but I really couldn’t empathize with her even when I tried. I think my favorite scene with her was when she actually seemed human, during the Christmas play.
All in all, though, this was a good and undeniably Christian read.
*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*
December 21, 2019
Full review coming soon
January 7, 2020
I love books that make me forget my surroundings and take me to somewhere else where I sympathize with the characters in a real way. Each Perfect Gift was one of those for me—it hit all the right points of a captivating plot and likable, engaging people who still have a few things wrong with them, which is worked on through the story.
The whole topic of a not-so-easy past life catching up with you after you are a Christian was quite intriguing. It was also encouraging to see what Ruggieri did with this book to show how Christ’s redemption work does make a difference, even when life seems to conspire against you. I loved Ben’s story, and watching him grow in here was fun and thought-provoking.
Would I take the high road, against my desires, if I had to make the choice? Would I try to do what was best, even if it would cost me everything? And how do we really know what God wants us to do?
In all, if you’re looking for an inspiring read with a great storyline, check this book out. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. It was one of my top favorites of the year!
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
The whole topic of a not-so-easy past life catching up with you after you are a Christian was quite intriguing. It was also encouraging to see what Ruggieri did with this book to show how Christ’s redemption work does make a difference, even when life seems to conspire against you. I loved Ben’s story, and watching him grow in here was fun and thought-provoking.
Would I take the high road, against my desires, if I had to make the choice? Would I try to do what was best, even if it would cost me everything? And how do we really know what God wants us to do?
In all, if you’re looking for an inspiring read with a great storyline, check this book out. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. It was one of my top favorites of the year!
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
October 29, 2019
Each Perfect Gift kicks off a new series featuring the Picoletti and Giorgi families. While this can be easily understood and enjoyed as a standalone, I'd recommend reading A Time of Grace first, because I think you'll better appreciate the new struggle we find Ben in if you knew more about where he came from.
The raw brokenness of Ben Picoletti made him an absolute favorite fictional character, so I was all too pleased to know that we'd see more from him. And I was no disappointed. Ben has been radically changed by the Lord and yet he's still being changed. All throughout the story we see that in these characters: the change the Lord has already made and the changes He's still in the process of making. There's such a realness about how each of these characters feel and respond to their struggles.
One of my favorite things about the story, and really the previous series as well, is how the characters become living examples of God's grace.
I highly recommend this moving Christmas story.
The raw brokenness of Ben Picoletti made him an absolute favorite fictional character, so I was all too pleased to know that we'd see more from him. And I was no disappointed. Ben has been radically changed by the Lord and yet he's still being changed. All throughout the story we see that in these characters: the change the Lord has already made and the changes He's still in the process of making. There's such a realness about how each of these characters feel and respond to their struggles.
One of my favorite things about the story, and really the previous series as well, is how the characters become living examples of God's grace.
I highly recommend this moving Christmas story.
November 5, 2019
I was so happy to finally be able to read the continuing story of this family. I enjoyed the first 3 books so much and am happy to report that I was not disappointed in Ben's story. I'm looking forward to(hint hint)more stories in this series. I love how the author is able to make you feel the characters emotions as you read. Wonderful, wonderful book and author!
December 4, 2025
For me the story started out rather slowly. Once Annie showed up, things got more interesting. The big question becomes, “What will Ben do?” In other words, what will he do about Annie and Betty? That question is not answered until the penultimate chapter in the novel, and it is answered in a satisfactory manner.
The book begins in November of 1937 in Rhode Island and ends around Christmas except for the last chapter, which take place a few months later and is more or less an epilogue. Ben was a rough lad until the Lord saved him, and as is the case, Ben changed a lot as he grew in his faith. Annie is not a Christian, but she sees the changes in Ben and wonders about it and even asks him to explain it. He does, but she doesn’t get it, at least at that point she doesn’t.
The author brings in a fair amount of Scripture, mostly in people’s minds as they wrestle with circumstances in their lives. The Reverend Cloud uses some when he counsels Ben, and others will voice a line or two in appropriate places. The Christmas play by the children in the church uses a lot of Scripture. I thought having the play in the story was a nice touch and well done. There was a chuckle when the innkeeper ran to his post and apologized to the director about having to go to the bathroom.
Aldo is the bad actor in this story. He is a cousin of some sort to Annie and an earlier acquaintance of Ben’s. In the story, there is no comeuppance for his machinations. Too bad, but that’s the way it goes sometimes.
My overall opinion is that the story moved along fairly well once it got going, and I was interested to know what Ben would do. It is one of four books in a series, and I hadn’t read any of the earlier ones, but the story still made good sense on its own.
The book begins in November of 1937 in Rhode Island and ends around Christmas except for the last chapter, which take place a few months later and is more or less an epilogue. Ben was a rough lad until the Lord saved him, and as is the case, Ben changed a lot as he grew in his faith. Annie is not a Christian, but she sees the changes in Ben and wonders about it and even asks him to explain it. He does, but she doesn’t get it, at least at that point she doesn’t.
The author brings in a fair amount of Scripture, mostly in people’s minds as they wrestle with circumstances in their lives. The Reverend Cloud uses some when he counsels Ben, and others will voice a line or two in appropriate places. The Christmas play by the children in the church uses a lot of Scripture. I thought having the play in the story was a nice touch and well done. There was a chuckle when the innkeeper ran to his post and apologized to the director about having to go to the bathroom.
Aldo is the bad actor in this story. He is a cousin of some sort to Annie and an earlier acquaintance of Ben’s. In the story, there is no comeuppance for his machinations. Too bad, but that’s the way it goes sometimes.
My overall opinion is that the story moved along fairly well once it got going, and I was interested to know what Ben would do. It is one of four books in a series, and I hadn’t read any of the earlier ones, but the story still made good sense on its own.
November 30, 2025
Amazing blessing
I love the characters and how real they are. How we see how God works in their lives even with their past and flaws. This book about an unloved girl alone finds belonging and love despite her sin. God can work all things for our good even when it does not appear so. This book is about a generous loving Godly family. Compassion for a girl and their son.
I love the characters and how real they are. How we see how God works in their lives even with their past and flaws. This book about an unloved girl alone finds belonging and love despite her sin. God can work all things for our good even when it does not appear so. This book is about a generous loving Godly family. Compassion for a girl and their son.
January 6, 2026
Good Read
Annie is persuaded to show up on the steps of her ex-boyfriend, Ben, when she finds herself pregnant with no family and nowhere else to go. Will Ben be receptive to Annie and his responsibilities? As a new Christian, does Ben have any other choice? Interesting plot that kept me guessing the possible resolutions till the end.
Annie is persuaded to show up on the steps of her ex-boyfriend, Ben, when she finds herself pregnant with no family and nowhere else to go. Will Ben be receptive to Annie and his responsibilities? As a new Christian, does Ben have any other choice? Interesting plot that kept me guessing the possible resolutions till the end.
December 2, 2025
Why would God save people who are of no account? asks a character with a roughshod past. Imagine watching the Biblical Christmas story for the very first time. That was a big influence that led to a redemption story. (I wasn't fond of so much dialect for two of the main characters.)
December 23, 2025
A lovely & cozy read, filled with faith & love. I look forward to reading the others in this series.
December 31, 2025
Love this story!!!
Excellent book. Did not expect the ending. Great writing! Highly recommend! I am going to fond more books by this author.
Excellent book. Did not expect the ending. Great writing! Highly recommend! I am going to fond more books by this author.
January 5, 2020
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5
The characters were, in my opinion, the strongest point of the story. By the end of the first chapter, I was definitely intrigued by their predicament, and by the finish of the second, these charries had my heart fully invested in their success! Granted, I didn’t love every one of the mains, but there was just something about their journeys that made me only wish the best for them. I especially loved how the author gave each POV character their own story: Betty, Sarah, Annie, and Ben, they all had their own hopes, their own desires, their own struggles, lessons, and fears, and all of these intertwined beautifully with all the others’. Everyone made their own choices, but every choice affected another person. Everyone was very much their own individual, but nobody could make their choices in isolation.
My favorite character was definitely Annie. She had so much to deal with and so far to go, and I just love characters who have to start at the very bottom and take that long, long journey up. Watching them climb to their feet and realize that they’re not just victims or survivors, but something entirely bigger and better, watching them figure out who they really are and learn that they can make their own choices… There’s just something really special about getting to be a part of that journey.
If you'd like to read more of my thoughts on this book, you can find the full review on Verbosity Reviews.
The characters were, in my opinion, the strongest point of the story. By the end of the first chapter, I was definitely intrigued by their predicament, and by the finish of the second, these charries had my heart fully invested in their success! Granted, I didn’t love every one of the mains, but there was just something about their journeys that made me only wish the best for them. I especially loved how the author gave each POV character their own story: Betty, Sarah, Annie, and Ben, they all had their own hopes, their own desires, their own struggles, lessons, and fears, and all of these intertwined beautifully with all the others’. Everyone made their own choices, but every choice affected another person. Everyone was very much their own individual, but nobody could make their choices in isolation.
My favorite character was definitely Annie. She had so much to deal with and so far to go, and I just love characters who have to start at the very bottom and take that long, long journey up. Watching them climb to their feet and realize that they’re not just victims or survivors, but something entirely bigger and better, watching them figure out who they really are and learn that they can make their own choices… There’s just something really special about getting to be a part of that journey.
If you'd like to read more of my thoughts on this book, you can find the full review on Verbosity Reviews.
November 4, 2019
What a fabulously told story! While this story does have a happily ever after, it is not easily come by. There are many twists and turns and unexpected happenings. Sometimes I felt the story was going in a predictable direction just to have it go entirely different than expected. This is a story that I absolutely could not put down! Ms. Ruggieri does a wonderful job of developing her characters and story setting.
I recommend this story for someone searching for a happily ever after, clean story, great character development, and enough time to enjoy a real page-turner!
I recommend this story for someone searching for a happily ever after, clean story, great character development, and enough time to enjoy a real page-turner!
October 29, 2019
This book was so good! It is very well written and holds your attention. This is a christian book that deals with sins of the past and how God's redeeming grace turns Ben's life around. This is a 'Must Read' book!! I received an ARC copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 5, 2019
I really enjoyed “Each Perfect Gift”! 😃 I typically prefer more action, but Christmas has a way of slowing you down for more a heartwarming style. 😁 And it was done very well in this story! I stayed interested for the whole read and found all the characters unique in their own way. I love Annie’s redemption! So beautiful! ☺️ A wonderful job, Alicia!
December 11, 2019
A great book. I could hardly put it down.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews