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This Fine Life
It is the summer of 1959 and Mariette Puttnam has just graduated from boarding school. When she returns to her privileged life at home, she isn't sure where life will take her. More schooling? A job? Marriage? Nothing feels right. How could she know that she would find the answer waiting for her in the narrow stairwell of her father's apparel factory, exactly between the third and fourth floors?
In this unique and tender romance, popular author Eva Marie Everson takes you on a journey through the heart of a young woman bound for the unknown. Discover the joys of new love, the perseverance of deep friendship, and the gift of forgiveness that comes from a truly fine life.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2010
146 people are currently reading
1576 people want to read
About the author
Eva Marie Everson
63 books363 followersEva Marie Everson is a best-selling, multiple award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction. She is the CEO of Word Weavers International and the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference. She enjoys teaching and speaking at writers events across the US. Eva Marie was the 2022 recipient of the Yvonne Lehman Legacy Award and the 2022 recipient of the AWSA Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2023 her book, The Third Path, won the Golden Scroll Book of the Year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
November 30, 2015
This Fine Life by Eva Marie Everson was a unique story; not quite your average Christian romance. And I loved it for that! Real, bittersweet, tender, raw … it openly displays the struggles, joys, questions, and victories of a young woman trying to find her way in life.
What’s a high-society young lady to do when she falls for the handsome boy who’s considered below her? And will her feelings change when he feels he’s being called into ministry? Walk alongside Mariette as she starts on a life-altering adventure; and finds new things out about herself, her husband’s heart, and God along the way.
So yes. It was just different. A real. I really appreciated this story; it was like looking into the life of a young pastor’s wife, and seeing what it would be like. I imagine pastor’s wives would probably identify and enjoy This Fine Life! Personal and unique.
I connected with Mariette’s struggle. With her questions. She trying, but it’s hard. I was fascinated by the exploration of young love. Of a new pastor and his wife’s day-to-day life. Of a privileged girl trying to fit into a small town. Of a young (perhaps slightly foolish at times) couple sort of growing and learning together. Of Mariette’s journey to finding God.
Some parts of This Fine Life were a tad bit slow. But as it’s not at all a fluffy or “fake” story, I don’t really find that a fault. It’s just kind of real. I really love fantasy, fairytale, and action-packed, highly entertaining novels; but sometimes a story like this just really captures my attention and blesses my heart as well.
I have few complaints. Some romantic moments got a little too heated for my taste. Mostly, I felt it was okay, though a bit blunt at times perhaps. But again, it was real. I appreciated that. It was just some of the moments before the couple got married that were a bit much.
Overall, it was just a lovely, stirring book. Then end-ish part brought tears to my eyes and touched my heart deeply. It was such a story of real life. I really, really enjoyed it. Sweet, genuine, tender, and memorable.
What’s a high-society young lady to do when she falls for the handsome boy who’s considered below her? And will her feelings change when he feels he’s being called into ministry? Walk alongside Mariette as she starts on a life-altering adventure; and finds new things out about herself, her husband’s heart, and God along the way.
So yes. It was just different. A real. I really appreciated this story; it was like looking into the life of a young pastor’s wife, and seeing what it would be like. I imagine pastor’s wives would probably identify and enjoy This Fine Life! Personal and unique.
I connected with Mariette’s struggle. With her questions. She trying, but it’s hard. I was fascinated by the exploration of young love. Of a new pastor and his wife’s day-to-day life. Of a privileged girl trying to fit into a small town. Of a young (perhaps slightly foolish at times) couple sort of growing and learning together. Of Mariette’s journey to finding God.
Some parts of This Fine Life were a tad bit slow. But as it’s not at all a fluffy or “fake” story, I don’t really find that a fault. It’s just kind of real. I really love fantasy, fairytale, and action-packed, highly entertaining novels; but sometimes a story like this just really captures my attention and blesses my heart as well.
I have few complaints. Some romantic moments got a little too heated for my taste. Mostly, I felt it was okay, though a bit blunt at times perhaps. But again, it was real. I appreciated that. It was just some of the moments before the couple got married that were a bit much.
Overall, it was just a lovely, stirring book. Then end-ish part brought tears to my eyes and touched my heart deeply. It was such a story of real life. I really, really enjoyed it. Sweet, genuine, tender, and memorable.
April 30, 2010
THIS FINE LIFE gives a charming glimpse into the 1960’s lifestyle, but also depicting the turmoil that lies below the surface for one young couple.
The story is a passionate romance- never inappropriate- the love between Mariette and her husband Thayne is blood warming, but does have its pitfalls. Watching Mariette and Thayne mature and grow through the story kept me rooted to the pages and I liked seeing them progress from self centered, impulsive teenagers.
I had a deep empathy for Mariette as she tries to find her footing and support her preacher husband when the town has great distaste for her. Her faith journey kept the story moving forward and me invested in her welfare.
There were a few things I didn’t care for in the book. Several scenes were overly dramatic. I have never known a man to run to his bed and hide under the covers and because the story is being told in retrospect, some of the story felt detached.
But the overall story kept my attention. It gripped me in several scenes and had me laughing in others. I loved the era and it was an enjoyable read.
This review is my honest opinion, Thanks to Revell publishes for a copy to review.
Available May 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group
The story is a passionate romance- never inappropriate- the love between Mariette and her husband Thayne is blood warming, but does have its pitfalls. Watching Mariette and Thayne mature and grow through the story kept me rooted to the pages and I liked seeing them progress from self centered, impulsive teenagers.
I had a deep empathy for Mariette as she tries to find her footing and support her preacher husband when the town has great distaste for her. Her faith journey kept the story moving forward and me invested in her welfare.
There were a few things I didn’t care for in the book. Several scenes were overly dramatic. I have never known a man to run to his bed and hide under the covers and because the story is being told in retrospect, some of the story felt detached.
But the overall story kept my attention. It gripped me in several scenes and had me laughing in others. I loved the era and it was an enjoyable read.
This review is my honest opinion, Thanks to Revell publishes for a copy to review.
Available May 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group
May 24, 2010
When Mariette Puttnam graduates from an exclusive boarding school and returns to her family, she faces a future full of unknown and exciting possibilities. But if her parents have any say in the matter, her future will be carefully channeled – her father wants her to continue her education and join him in the family business, while her mother wants to find her a very proper Southern husband so she can begin the very proper occupation of raising a family. However, a chance meeting with Thayne Scott, a lowly mail clerk at her father’s factory, will change the course of Mariette’s life forever. Mariette and Thayne’s impetuous love affair will be sorely tested when Thayne is called into the ministry, a call Mariette isn’t sure she’ll ever be able to – or want to – understand. Thayne’s love for God and passion for spreading the gospel will impact Mariette’s life in ways she’d never dreamed possible. Through the early years of marriage and the pains of establishing a ministry, Mariette and Thayne’s marriage is severely tested. Through it all Mariette discovers that though she may not be living the life she’d planned, allowing God into the center of life wherever you find yourself can make this life very fine indeed.
Reading This Fine Life proved to be an unexpected joy. I don’t typically gravitate towards fiction set in the 1960s, but the exquisite promise that Mariette meets her future “in the narrow stairwell of her father’s apparel factory, exactly between the third and fourth floors” captured my imagination. Of course the fabulous, Mad Men-style cover didn’t hurt, either. From the first few chapters it would be easy to assume that this novel is a “typical” boy-meets-girl romance, but Everson gives readers something so much richer than that. More than just a romance between two impetuous teens on the cusp of adulthood, This Fine Life is about what it takes to make a life, what happens after the first blush of romance has settled and the “I do’s” have been spoken. It’s a rare thing (in my experience, anyway) to find fiction that is less about the initial romance and more about the romance of building a marriage and a life together, and the commitment it takes to work through the trials when it would be easier to walk away.
The pages of This Fine Life positively drip with Southern charm. Everson so excels at bringing this time period to life, I felt like I was seeing movies like Tammy Tell Me True or April Love come to life (the latter starring Pat Boone, which is wildly appropriate considering it’s Boone’s rendition of the song “Friendly Persuasion” that plays an important role in Thayne and Mariette’s first meeting). Every description, from Mariette’s clothing to the food, appliances, and shops she frequents fully immerse you in 1960s Georgia, and I loved every second of the time I spent in her world. While Everson does a superb job saturating her storytelling with colorful descriptions and rich characterizations that bring the people and places within the pages of This Fine Life vividly to life, it’s the journey Mariette and Thayne take as they grow and mature as individuals and in their marriage that will stick with you long after you finish the final pages. I applaud Everson for crafting such a memorable story about the power and beauty of commitment, and seeking and finding one’s place and purpose in this life. Mariette’s story is one that cannot fail, I think, to tug the heartstrings of anyone who’s searching, or remembers what it’s like, to embark on the often-painful, but ultimately rewarding, journey of self-discovery and finding one’s place in this world that makes up a life. This Fine Life is a story worth savoring, a powerful reminder of the fine life to be found when one trusts in the faithfulness of an unchanging God.
Reading This Fine Life proved to be an unexpected joy. I don’t typically gravitate towards fiction set in the 1960s, but the exquisite promise that Mariette meets her future “in the narrow stairwell of her father’s apparel factory, exactly between the third and fourth floors” captured my imagination. Of course the fabulous, Mad Men-style cover didn’t hurt, either. From the first few chapters it would be easy to assume that this novel is a “typical” boy-meets-girl romance, but Everson gives readers something so much richer than that. More than just a romance between two impetuous teens on the cusp of adulthood, This Fine Life is about what it takes to make a life, what happens after the first blush of romance has settled and the “I do’s” have been spoken. It’s a rare thing (in my experience, anyway) to find fiction that is less about the initial romance and more about the romance of building a marriage and a life together, and the commitment it takes to work through the trials when it would be easier to walk away.
The pages of This Fine Life positively drip with Southern charm. Everson so excels at bringing this time period to life, I felt like I was seeing movies like Tammy Tell Me True or April Love come to life (the latter starring Pat Boone, which is wildly appropriate considering it’s Boone’s rendition of the song “Friendly Persuasion” that plays an important role in Thayne and Mariette’s first meeting). Every description, from Mariette’s clothing to the food, appliances, and shops she frequents fully immerse you in 1960s Georgia, and I loved every second of the time I spent in her world. While Everson does a superb job saturating her storytelling with colorful descriptions and rich characterizations that bring the people and places within the pages of This Fine Life vividly to life, it’s the journey Mariette and Thayne take as they grow and mature as individuals and in their marriage that will stick with you long after you finish the final pages. I applaud Everson for crafting such a memorable story about the power and beauty of commitment, and seeking and finding one’s place and purpose in this life. Mariette’s story is one that cannot fail, I think, to tug the heartstrings of anyone who’s searching, or remembers what it’s like, to embark on the often-painful, but ultimately rewarding, journey of self-discovery and finding one’s place in this world that makes up a life. This Fine Life is a story worth savoring, a powerful reminder of the fine life to be found when one trusts in the faithfulness of an unchanging God.
April 24, 2010
I really loved this story, especially since it took place in the early 1960s, not a common time period in Christian fiction. The book spans about 5 years and follows Mariette Puttnam from a well to do teen to a pastor's wife in a small town. It made me cry and laugh so I was never bored. Great book!
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
April 26, 2010
This Fine Life was gritty and real and will have you on a emotional rollercoater. I will definitely be on the lookout for more books by, Eva Everson ~Review TBW~
March 11, 2017
A fascinating story that really took me back to days gone by.
June 10, 2023
I've been making a point of reading books that have been on my TBR almost since I discovered platforms that allow you to track such things with great ease. If I am being fair, some books that I've had tagged for years now, when I read the synopsis, I promptly dismiss; I don't know if my tastes have changed this much or if I was just indiscriminately adding books back then because the "shelves" were bare, but truthfully, I cannot imagine what I was thinking on some of them. I straddled the line with this book, part of me wondering if I would hate it and part hesitating for some reason upon which I could not seem to place my finger, so I boldly left this one on the list and determined to get to it in 2023, for better or worse.
What I liked about This Fine Life:
The book moved right along - It plowed straight ahead and reading was not a challenge. The pages turned easily, I was mildly curious how it would all play out, and if I am going to read something that is not really my thing, I have to say it took me next to no time to be done with.
What I didn't care for:
It tried way too hard - The flood of pop-culture references was never-ending. Every other page, if not more frequently, there was a mention of a famous person, a song, a current event, fashion description, slang. I wanted to scream "I KNOW WHEN WE ARE!!" I like to be immersed in the setting, but I felt like the author was trying to drown me with it.
I felt like I was being insulted in some backhanded way - I should be clear that this was, to some degree, Christian fiction (we'll discuss that in more depth in a minute), and I don't know what Protestant denomination the author is herself, but I will tell you without a doubt, it isn't Lutheran, because she did not portray it accurately in the slightest. (Full disclosure: as a Lutheran, I feel qualified to make this determination.) There's a widespread acknowledgement that Lutherans make a lot of other denominations uncomfortable; we're too Protestant for the Roman Catholics, too Catholic for the Protestants. Whatever the author felt she knew about being Lutheran though, it missed the mark. I feel strongly about my beliefs and the doctrine we hold, and it is a surefire way to get my hackles up to misrepresent them.
The writing...wasn't that great - There was a time I might not have noticed this as readily, but having been fortunate to find some incredibly gifted authors in the last decade or so, I can say with conviction that I like a story to unfold for me. I like descriptors (within reason) and I like to be immersed in the story. I do not like to just be talked at, be told what's happening rather than observing it for myself. Ultimately, this felt like an exceptionally lengthy essay in its voice.
The digital edition I read - I can't speak for every digital copy of this book, but there were more than a half dozen errors in the one my library shelves. Some spelling, others weird random numbers popping up in the middle of words sometimes. A thorough proofread was sorely needed. There are times I can overlook this, but it was to the point of distraction.
The cast of characters - Some were two-dimensional. Some were annoying. Some were so predictable that they were practically caricatures. I was curious about them, but they ran shallow for the most part, and the only character I was rooting for only made an appearance toward the very end of the book in a most dramatic fashion.
What left me conflicted:
I couldn't tell if the portrayal of the late 1950s into the early 60s was all that accurate - On the one hand, there were all those pop culture flashing neon signs, but on the other, I kept feeling as though something was slightly off and that something a bit too contemporary had slipped in unannounced. And given my point about the incorrect image of Lutheranism that was drawn, I was left to wonder how well researched the setting and timeline really were.
Pace - This book moved, no doubt about it. I can't remember the last time I plowed through so many pages. This was more a reflection of easy-to-read writing more than any compelling drive to know what happened next. And then it was like the author got to page 250 and opened the story full throttle; without fanfare, we were pulling into the station and being shoved off the train. That's all, folks, we're at the end of the line, get out. It had reached this lovely plot progression and tension...and then it was just...over.
Worth noting:
For Christian fiction, there were a lot of bedroom references - None specifically graphic, but certainly more suggestive than one would expect from this genre, be they between spouses or not. And the sheer volume of them felt almost like a preoccupation. It gave the impression that by mentioning God and having a preacher be a main character, you get the Christian fiction tag, but then toss in some sex for the secular draw. I don't know if that was how it was planned, but it's for sure how it read.
I could have lived without reading this. It was not memorable and I'd be shocked to recall a bit of it before the year closes. But I am feeling generous, and thus, as it was a quick read that at least kept me curious enough to continue turning pages, we'll go with 2.5 stars. But I am equally certain that this isn't an author meant for me and I won't be adding anything else of hers to my list.
What I liked about This Fine Life:
The book moved right along - It plowed straight ahead and reading was not a challenge. The pages turned easily, I was mildly curious how it would all play out, and if I am going to read something that is not really my thing, I have to say it took me next to no time to be done with.
What I didn't care for:
It tried way too hard - The flood of pop-culture references was never-ending. Every other page, if not more frequently, there was a mention of a famous person, a song, a current event, fashion description, slang. I wanted to scream "I KNOW WHEN WE ARE!!" I like to be immersed in the setting, but I felt like the author was trying to drown me with it.
I felt like I was being insulted in some backhanded way - I should be clear that this was, to some degree, Christian fiction (we'll discuss that in more depth in a minute), and I don't know what Protestant denomination the author is herself, but I will tell you without a doubt, it isn't Lutheran, because she did not portray it accurately in the slightest. (Full disclosure: as a Lutheran, I feel qualified to make this determination.) There's a widespread acknowledgement that Lutherans make a lot of other denominations uncomfortable; we're too Protestant for the Roman Catholics, too Catholic for the Protestants. Whatever the author felt she knew about being Lutheran though, it missed the mark. I feel strongly about my beliefs and the doctrine we hold, and it is a surefire way to get my hackles up to misrepresent them.
The writing...wasn't that great - There was a time I might not have noticed this as readily, but having been fortunate to find some incredibly gifted authors in the last decade or so, I can say with conviction that I like a story to unfold for me. I like descriptors (within reason) and I like to be immersed in the story. I do not like to just be talked at, be told what's happening rather than observing it for myself. Ultimately, this felt like an exceptionally lengthy essay in its voice.
The digital edition I read - I can't speak for every digital copy of this book, but there were more than a half dozen errors in the one my library shelves. Some spelling, others weird random numbers popping up in the middle of words sometimes. A thorough proofread was sorely needed. There are times I can overlook this, but it was to the point of distraction.
The cast of characters - Some were two-dimensional. Some were annoying. Some were so predictable that they were practically caricatures. I was curious about them, but they ran shallow for the most part, and the only character I was rooting for only made an appearance toward the very end of the book in a most dramatic fashion.
What left me conflicted:
I couldn't tell if the portrayal of the late 1950s into the early 60s was all that accurate - On the one hand, there were all those pop culture flashing neon signs, but on the other, I kept feeling as though something was slightly off and that something a bit too contemporary had slipped in unannounced. And given my point about the incorrect image of Lutheranism that was drawn, I was left to wonder how well researched the setting and timeline really were.
Pace - This book moved, no doubt about it. I can't remember the last time I plowed through so many pages. This was more a reflection of easy-to-read writing more than any compelling drive to know what happened next. And then it was like the author got to page 250 and opened the story full throttle; without fanfare, we were pulling into the station and being shoved off the train. That's all, folks, we're at the end of the line, get out. It had reached this lovely plot progression and tension...and then it was just...over.
Worth noting:
For Christian fiction, there were a lot of bedroom references - None specifically graphic, but certainly more suggestive than one would expect from this genre, be they between spouses or not. And the sheer volume of them felt almost like a preoccupation. It gave the impression that by mentioning God and having a preacher be a main character, you get the Christian fiction tag, but then toss in some sex for the secular draw. I don't know if that was how it was planned, but it's for sure how it read.
I could have lived without reading this. It was not memorable and I'd be shocked to recall a bit of it before the year closes. But I am feeling generous, and thus, as it was a quick read that at least kept me curious enough to continue turning pages, we'll go with 2.5 stars. But I am equally certain that this isn't an author meant for me and I won't be adding anything else of hers to my list.
June 6, 2019
Fun, sweet, sweet read. Setting is in rural Gerogia. Time period 1959-1964.
March 4, 2017
Confession: I've had this book on my Nook for years. However, I hesitated to read it because it's Christian fiction, and I haven't had the best luck with that. I finally picked it up (what's the correct terminology for that when it's an ebook?) this week and I'm so glad I did! I wasn't too sure about it when I started it, but the longer I read it, the more I loved it.
While there is some romance at the beginning (very insta-love, but hang in there with it), I wouldn't consider it a romance novel. This is really a story of a young woman looking for a place to belong, and discovering her faith along the way. I cried a bit while reading and there is one scene later in the book that caused me to laugh so much I had to put the book down.
I just really enjoyed this book.
While there is some romance at the beginning (very insta-love, but hang in there with it), I wouldn't consider it a romance novel. This is really a story of a young woman looking for a place to belong, and discovering her faith along the way. I cried a bit while reading and there is one scene later in the book that caused me to laugh so much I had to put the book down.
I just really enjoyed this book.
June 3, 2010
I’ll be honest. It took me a while to get into this novel. At first I was turned off by some of Mariette’s actions – especially with how she treated her parents at the start of the relationship – and eventual marriage to Thayne.
But as the pages (and years) fly by, and Mariette faces life as a young newlywed and then as a pastor’s wife, I found myself growing to like her as a character. I also found myself liking Thayne and the choices he makes throughout his life.
Overall, this story grew on me. I also liked the sub-plot introduced by Everson when Thayne – growing in his faith – decides to pursue his calling as a pastor.
Going Deeper Into The Story
I thought Everson successfully captured the stress that a young married couple might feel balancing work, family, school and eventually – the ministry.
I found her examples of what happened to Thayne and Mariette during their first pastorate – including having someone show up unexpectedly to “fix” the parsonage early one morning – to be very humorous and well, all to real.
Think it can't happen in real life? Think again. One of my seminary friends - who grew up as a pastor’s son in Tennessee, and is now a pastor himself – tells the story of how one pastor had to get “permission” for his son to have a “race car bed” in the parsonage – because it came furnished (and there was already a bed).
Another friend tells the story of how the parsonage - again came furnished - had a pair of ugly lamps. The family was expected to use them because, well, someone's grandmother must have donated them to the church.
In addition to being criticized by making the parsonage her home (a.k.a. painting the walls and making curtains) Mariette is also "faulted" as a pastor’s wife, because she can't fry chicken.
Sound unrealistic? It's not. We had a running joke in seminary – if you were going to be a pastor’s wife, you better know how to play the piano, make three-bean salad and teach children’s church. (Reason No. 101 why I’m not a pastor’s wife right now..lol). There were lots of expectations placed on women marrying a pastor (funny, those same expectations are never placed on guys marrying a woman who is becoming a pastor).
Honestly, and I think Everson has captured it a bit in her novel, being in the ministry means living in a fishbowl – sometimes it is simply a bit crowded in here – with every word and action analyzed, scrutinized and questioned.
I thought Everson created a snapshot of what life was like in the 60s and 70s for pastors. The more things change, the more they stay the same - I'll bet she could tell this same story - with a new twist - set in present day America.
But as the pages (and years) fly by, and Mariette faces life as a young newlywed and then as a pastor’s wife, I found myself growing to like her as a character. I also found myself liking Thayne and the choices he makes throughout his life.
Overall, this story grew on me. I also liked the sub-plot introduced by Everson when Thayne – growing in his faith – decides to pursue his calling as a pastor.
Going Deeper Into The Story
I thought Everson successfully captured the stress that a young married couple might feel balancing work, family, school and eventually – the ministry.
I found her examples of what happened to Thayne and Mariette during their first pastorate – including having someone show up unexpectedly to “fix” the parsonage early one morning – to be very humorous and well, all to real.
Think it can't happen in real life? Think again. One of my seminary friends - who grew up as a pastor’s son in Tennessee, and is now a pastor himself – tells the story of how one pastor had to get “permission” for his son to have a “race car bed” in the parsonage – because it came furnished (and there was already a bed).
Another friend tells the story of how the parsonage - again came furnished - had a pair of ugly lamps. The family was expected to use them because, well, someone's grandmother must have donated them to the church.
In addition to being criticized by making the parsonage her home (a.k.a. painting the walls and making curtains) Mariette is also "faulted" as a pastor’s wife, because she can't fry chicken.
Sound unrealistic? It's not. We had a running joke in seminary – if you were going to be a pastor’s wife, you better know how to play the piano, make three-bean salad and teach children’s church. (Reason No. 101 why I’m not a pastor’s wife right now..lol). There were lots of expectations placed on women marrying a pastor (funny, those same expectations are never placed on guys marrying a woman who is becoming a pastor).
Honestly, and I think Everson has captured it a bit in her novel, being in the ministry means living in a fishbowl – sometimes it is simply a bit crowded in here – with every word and action analyzed, scrutinized and questioned.
I thought Everson created a snapshot of what life was like in the 60s and 70s for pastors. The more things change, the more they stay the same - I'll bet she could tell this same story - with a new twist - set in present day America.
May 10, 2010
Title: THIS FINE LIFE
Author: Eva Marie Everson
Publisher: Revell
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3276-5
Genre: Inspirational/women’s fiction
Mariette Puttman graduated from boarding school in 1959 and headed home to—what? Her mother believes she should be married off to the first eligible bachelor, and her father says this is a different age. Mariette can go to college, or get a career, or do whatever she wants. But unfortunately, Mariette isn’t sure what she wants.
When her daddy invites her to join her for lunch, Mariette is thrilled to agree, but she expects that her dad will want to talk to her about her future plans. He dreams of Mariette going to college, getting a degree, and then going to work for him.
Who would have dreamed that she discovers the answer waiting for her in the narrow stairwell of her father’s apparel factory exactly between the third and fourth floors?
THIS FINE LIFE does start pretty slow, but it piques my interest when Mariette is on that staircase. At that point I had to keep reading to see what would happen next. The story is written in first person, making it very easy to relate to Mariette, but the prologue is set about five years in the future (from 1959) so you know ultimately how at least part of the story will end. Sort of. The prologue does leave unanswered questions which will be answered toward the end of the book.
THIS FINE LIFE is divided up into parts, with each of the story taking places during a different stage of Mariette’s life, so the story doesn’t really flow smoothly. Still it is an interesting story. The story is promoted as a contemporary romance, and it is, in a way, but I see it as very much women’s fiction. I have read books that Ms. Everson has co-authored, but this is the first book I’ve read with her as the only author. I recommend it as a tender story that will stay with you. $14.99. 343 pages.
Author: Eva Marie Everson
Publisher: Revell
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3276-5
Genre: Inspirational/women’s fiction
Mariette Puttman graduated from boarding school in 1959 and headed home to—what? Her mother believes she should be married off to the first eligible bachelor, and her father says this is a different age. Mariette can go to college, or get a career, or do whatever she wants. But unfortunately, Mariette isn’t sure what she wants.
When her daddy invites her to join her for lunch, Mariette is thrilled to agree, but she expects that her dad will want to talk to her about her future plans. He dreams of Mariette going to college, getting a degree, and then going to work for him.
Who would have dreamed that she discovers the answer waiting for her in the narrow stairwell of her father’s apparel factory exactly between the third and fourth floors?
THIS FINE LIFE does start pretty slow, but it piques my interest when Mariette is on that staircase. At that point I had to keep reading to see what would happen next. The story is written in first person, making it very easy to relate to Mariette, but the prologue is set about five years in the future (from 1959) so you know ultimately how at least part of the story will end. Sort of. The prologue does leave unanswered questions which will be answered toward the end of the book.
THIS FINE LIFE is divided up into parts, with each of the story taking places during a different stage of Mariette’s life, so the story doesn’t really flow smoothly. Still it is an interesting story. The story is promoted as a contemporary romance, and it is, in a way, but I see it as very much women’s fiction. I have read books that Ms. Everson has co-authored, but this is the first book I’ve read with her as the only author. I recommend it as a tender story that will stay with you. $14.99. 343 pages.
October 15, 2016
Sometimes I read a book simply because it's there. Eva Marie Everson writes the kind of stories that allow me to do just that. I've had This Fine Life on my kindle for a while and needed a "palate cleanser" book--one that will allow me to escape for a while between two heavily-themed novels. This didn't exactly fit that bill, but it did give me a great escape for a while. One thing I truly enjoyed about the book is the way that Mariette grows as a person and then as a Christian.
Mariette has graduated from high school and her mother is pushing her to marry the "right" man and her father wants her to go to college. She is having a hard time choosing what to do with her life until she meets Thayne Scott in the stairwell of her father's factory. She not only falls in love, she falls hard--and so does Thayne. After her parents refuse to allow her to see Thayne anymore, the two of them elope. The rest of the book is about her growing relationship with Thayne and her new relationship with God. There is so much more to the story of their growth than what I have described here.
Mariette and Thayne make a couple that the reader wants to befriend. Her parents are easy to understand and yet somewhat misguided in their ideas. I understand a lot of Mariette's feelings of not fitting into her own life and it was a great privilege to see that an author understood the feeling herself.
I have loved Eva Marie Everson since I read the Potluck Club novels she co-wrote with Linda Evans Shepherd. This one is definitely a five-star book, two thumbs up, and a fine life.
Mariette has graduated from high school and her mother is pushing her to marry the "right" man and her father wants her to go to college. She is having a hard time choosing what to do with her life until she meets Thayne Scott in the stairwell of her father's factory. She not only falls in love, she falls hard--and so does Thayne. After her parents refuse to allow her to see Thayne anymore, the two of them elope. The rest of the book is about her growing relationship with Thayne and her new relationship with God. There is so much more to the story of their growth than what I have described here.
Mariette and Thayne make a couple that the reader wants to befriend. Her parents are easy to understand and yet somewhat misguided in their ideas. I understand a lot of Mariette's feelings of not fitting into her own life and it was a great privilege to see that an author understood the feeling herself.
I have loved Eva Marie Everson since I read the Potluck Club novels she co-wrote with Linda Evans Shepherd. This one is definitely a five-star book, two thumbs up, and a fine life.
August 29, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this. I couldn't put it down and it was genuine but not heart-wrenching like some books I have read lately. There really was a sense of time and place.
September 7, 2012
It was very readable, quality writing, engaging, but ultimately frustrating. I'm really not sure what point the author was trying to make. I think it was about finding God. Apparently through having children. Also, the odd cultural references were weird. We get that it's the 60's, this isn't historical fiction, stop awkwardly mentioning major historical events.
Mariette, the main character, was mostly relatable up until the last 20 pages or so. I take that back, she was almost relatable. She kept having reactions to things that normal people should not have.
1. She fell madly and instantly in love with Thayne because... he was... cute? I think that's all I really got. Thayne wasn't really likeable, he was kind of a sexist and paternal. Even initally, he said they were in lust initally. I didn't get that, the author did not convince me that she was in love with Thayne. Repeatedly saying that you're in love with someone doesn't count.
2. She's totally okay with her husband going behind her back REPEATEDLY. He doesn't consult her about anything. He works two jobs without telling her, he applies to seminary without telling her, he decides to move them into her parents house without telling her, he decides to move them across the state without telling her (to be fair she was nieve to think he wasn't going to take a job as a preacher, she's dumb for thinking that), he has his paycheck witheld and doesn't tell her, he moves her friend out of town without telling her. When is any of this okay?
3. Why is her husband witholding sex? I feel like there's some kind of supressed feelings the author is working out here. It's weird that he won't have sex with his wife. Yet she never says anything.
4. Is she okay with taking stuff from her parents? she certainly seems to be. But sometimes she says not. But all of her actions are different.
5. Basically, why is she okay with her husband treating her like crap? She kinda stood up to the town ladies.
6. She goes into labor and her first response is to drive 4 hours? She even mentions how she's done this before yet she thinks 22 minutes a part contractions is the time to embark on a journey? Her sole reference for labor is her friend Missy? Why? Why did she need to have a roadside delivery?
7. Thayne. He basically turns into an entirely different person. That or she just didn't know him that well before they got married. Regardless, she seems frustrated by his condescending attitude, and putting God above her, insulting her cooking, leaving her out of things. Which is understandable. Really understandable. But her response is to basically ignore it.
8. her "unless we had sleep sex..." response to being pregnant. Um, okay. Weird.
9. That time he gives her a Bible for Christmas. Great present Thayne, I don't even like bibles, stop trying to push your beliefs on me. That's what her response should've been.
The christian undertones were just weird. It didn't seem like her relationship with God was the overarching conflict, it seemed like it was with her husband who just so happened to get into God and that made her feel weird. In the painfully heavy-handed analytical words of Missy "you never fit in at Saint Margret Mary and you felt that you stopped fitting in here, and then you met Thayne. With Thayne you totally belonged. He didn't care who you were or where you were from; he just loved you to pieces. then he goes and gives his life totally to God and is called into a life you don't understand. Once again, Mirette is on the outside looking in." this idea is mentioned repeatedly so maybe the book is about finding a place to fit in. With God. That's certainly part of it. I'll buy that she didn't fit in at school but the rest of the book is filled with people who support and love her. So what if everyone doesn't love her? She's an adult.
In conclusion, I was highly frustrated by the main character. She recognizes problems but does absolutely nothing to fix them. Except ignore them until she has children to keep her busy. There were also a lot of random things that were not tied together.
Mariette, the main character, was mostly relatable up until the last 20 pages or so. I take that back, she was almost relatable. She kept having reactions to things that normal people should not have.
1. She fell madly and instantly in love with Thayne because... he was... cute? I think that's all I really got. Thayne wasn't really likeable, he was kind of a sexist and paternal. Even initally, he said they were in lust initally. I didn't get that, the author did not convince me that she was in love with Thayne. Repeatedly saying that you're in love with someone doesn't count.
2. She's totally okay with her husband going behind her back REPEATEDLY. He doesn't consult her about anything. He works two jobs without telling her, he applies to seminary without telling her, he decides to move them into her parents house without telling her, he decides to move them across the state without telling her (to be fair she was nieve to think he wasn't going to take a job as a preacher, she's dumb for thinking that), he has his paycheck witheld and doesn't tell her, he moves her friend out of town without telling her. When is any of this okay?
3. Why is her husband witholding sex? I feel like there's some kind of supressed feelings the author is working out here. It's weird that he won't have sex with his wife. Yet she never says anything.
4. Is she okay with taking stuff from her parents? she certainly seems to be. But sometimes she says not. But all of her actions are different.
5. Basically, why is she okay with her husband treating her like crap? She kinda stood up to the town ladies.
6. She goes into labor and her first response is to drive 4 hours? She even mentions how she's done this before yet she thinks 22 minutes a part contractions is the time to embark on a journey? Her sole reference for labor is her friend Missy? Why? Why did she need to have a roadside delivery?
7. Thayne. He basically turns into an entirely different person. That or she just didn't know him that well before they got married. Regardless, she seems frustrated by his condescending attitude, and putting God above her, insulting her cooking, leaving her out of things. Which is understandable. Really understandable. But her response is to basically ignore it.
8. her "unless we had sleep sex..." response to being pregnant. Um, okay. Weird.
9. That time he gives her a Bible for Christmas. Great present Thayne, I don't even like bibles, stop trying to push your beliefs on me. That's what her response should've been.
The christian undertones were just weird. It didn't seem like her relationship with God was the overarching conflict, it seemed like it was with her husband who just so happened to get into God and that made her feel weird. In the painfully heavy-handed analytical words of Missy "you never fit in at Saint Margret Mary and you felt that you stopped fitting in here, and then you met Thayne. With Thayne you totally belonged. He didn't care who you were or where you were from; he just loved you to pieces. then he goes and gives his life totally to God and is called into a life you don't understand. Once again, Mirette is on the outside looking in." this idea is mentioned repeatedly so maybe the book is about finding a place to fit in. With God. That's certainly part of it. I'll buy that she didn't fit in at school but the rest of the book is filled with people who support and love her. So what if everyone doesn't love her? She's an adult.
In conclusion, I was highly frustrated by the main character. She recognizes problems but does absolutely nothing to fix them. Except ignore them until she has children to keep her busy. There were also a lot of random things that were not tied together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2011
I wasn't sure what to think of this book. I loved the cover and the writing was fabulous! The author chose interesting and descriptive phrases that made the scenes very easy to see in my mind.
I didn't really care for the characters much in a lot of the book though. In the beginning, Mariette has this strange mix of innocent and planned passion. She picks dresses that hug her shape and thinks about how it will make Thayne go crazy, lies to have time alone with him ... pushes herself on him - and then is afraid when he goes to park in case he's getting the wrong idea about her. It just seemed like she was almost a tease. Then you have her spoiled nature. She's used to a certain lifestyle and education level and prejudges anything but that. She wants what she wants when she wants it as well - thinking rarely about anything but herself.
Thayne and her have (except for before their marriage) a completely acceptable passionate relationship/marriage. The problem is that it seems like that is just about the only glue holding them together sometimes. Although he is the more mature of the two, I couldn't help sympathizing when he would make huge decisions without discussing it with her -- and then seem to notify everyone but her first.
There were also the judgmental ladies in their new town, the lecherous postman ... It was hard to fall in love with these people.
It did help you to peek into the world of Pastors and their families - how much is expected of them and how much pressure is put on them. The writing was so good that the characters felt real enough to me that I cared for them even though I wasn't crazy about them in the beginning or all the choices they made.
I didn't really care for the characters much in a lot of the book though. In the beginning, Mariette has this strange mix of innocent and planned passion. She picks dresses that hug her shape and thinks about how it will make Thayne go crazy, lies to have time alone with him ... pushes herself on him - and then is afraid when he goes to park in case he's getting the wrong idea about her. It just seemed like she was almost a tease. Then you have her spoiled nature. She's used to a certain lifestyle and education level and prejudges anything but that. She wants what she wants when she wants it as well - thinking rarely about anything but herself.
Thayne and her have (except for before their marriage) a completely acceptable passionate relationship/marriage. The problem is that it seems like that is just about the only glue holding them together sometimes. Although he is the more mature of the two, I couldn't help sympathizing when he would make huge decisions without discussing it with her -- and then seem to notify everyone but her first.
There were also the judgmental ladies in their new town, the lecherous postman ... It was hard to fall in love with these people.
It did help you to peek into the world of Pastors and their families - how much is expected of them and how much pressure is put on them. The writing was so good that the characters felt real enough to me that I cared for them even though I wasn't crazy about them in the beginning or all the choices they made.
May 8, 2010
The description on the back cover of this book is pretty vague, so I really had no idea what to expect or where this story would go. I really liked that about this book because watching this story unfold page by page was so much more enjoyable than knowing the whole story ahead of time. And what a wonderful story this is! I want to keep my review of This Fine Life vague just as the publisher did on the back cover because I think part of the joy of reading this story is not knowing where God will take Mariette next or how he will work in her life.
I think one of the things I liked so much about this book is the fact that I could relate to Mariette in so many ways. She is so real and I think a lot of readers will see themselves in her. I got a great deal of comfort from that. I also got a great deal of comfort from Mariette’s friend Missy. We all need a friend like her. There were so many other wonderful characters and personalities in this story. I just loved the overall feel of this book.
I don’t usually care whether a story is told in the first person or the third person, but I am really glad this story is told in the first person. This story being told from Mariette’s perspective made it even more intimate, emotional, and more real. It just would not have been the same written any other way.
I really loved This Fine Life. I just can’t say enough good things about this book. There was nothing I did not like. There was not a moment of boredom. The story was never slow. The characters were wonderful. The setting was beautiful. I just loved it! I highly recommend it to anyone. It will definitely go on my favorite books shelf.
I think one of the things I liked so much about this book is the fact that I could relate to Mariette in so many ways. She is so real and I think a lot of readers will see themselves in her. I got a great deal of comfort from that. I also got a great deal of comfort from Mariette’s friend Missy. We all need a friend like her. There were so many other wonderful characters and personalities in this story. I just loved the overall feel of this book.
I don’t usually care whether a story is told in the first person or the third person, but I am really glad this story is told in the first person. This story being told from Mariette’s perspective made it even more intimate, emotional, and more real. It just would not have been the same written any other way.
I really loved This Fine Life. I just can’t say enough good things about this book. There was nothing I did not like. There was not a moment of boredom. The story was never slow. The characters were wonderful. The setting was beautiful. I just loved it! I highly recommend it to anyone. It will definitely go on my favorite books shelf.
February 13, 2012
I don’t think it’s giving away too much to tell you that Mariette, the very rich and upperclass protagonist, falls in love with a young man named Thayne who is beneath her social status. There are two love stories going on in this book: first, the love between Mariette and Thayne; second, the growing love between Thayne and God, a love which Mariette does not understand, which causes her to feel like outsider. Therein lies the real drama of the story.
I’ll be honest, it took me while to get into this book. The narrative seemed to describe too many actions, slowing down the dialogue to a painful pace. (For instance, I don’t think the reader needs to know that she reached for the salt or the sugar between sentences, or that she grabbed the handle of the shopping cart and pushed…) If I hadn’t agreed read this book to end, I would have quit.
But I must say that once I reached the half-way point, I really got into the story. The author stopped slowing down the dialogue and the story became very real. I think most of us can relate to the young couple, madly in love at first, whose happiness is dampened by work, financial strain, awkward relationship with the in-laws, painful secrets from the past… I ended up really rooting for this couple, and I’m glad I saw them through to the end.
I’ll be honest, it took me while to get into this book. The narrative seemed to describe too many actions, slowing down the dialogue to a painful pace. (For instance, I don’t think the reader needs to know that she reached for the salt or the sugar between sentences, or that she grabbed the handle of the shopping cart and pushed…) If I hadn’t agreed read this book to end, I would have quit.
But I must say that once I reached the half-way point, I really got into the story. The author stopped slowing down the dialogue and the story became very real. I think most of us can relate to the young couple, madly in love at first, whose happiness is dampened by work, financial strain, awkward relationship with the in-laws, painful secrets from the past… I ended up really rooting for this couple, and I’m glad I saw them through to the end.
January 15, 2015
I love how Eva can take a seemingly ordinary setting and weave a story that enthralls the reader until the last word. Set in the sixties and told through the point of view of Marietta Scott, an unwilling pastor’s wife, encapsulates one theme—belonging. Details such as dress, home decorating and music keeps the reader in the setting. The mind-set of the sixties is seamlessly captures as well. This includes how sin is dealt with in the church and community. This intimate portrayal of a young couple maturing from youthful newlyweds to a pastoral team is at times bittersweet. Being only in Marietta’s head allowed for lots of surprises for the reader. Some of the decisions Thayne Scott made without consulting his wife made me shake my head and turn the page to learn more. The cast of supporting characters you learn to love or dislike through the eyes of Marietta. Your opinion of them changes as Marietta embraces a relationship with God that eluded her understanding most of her life. This is another point in the story readers will appreciate. Although the main characters are in the ministry there is no preachy feel to the story. Yet the message of Christ’s love for all of us is clearly presented.
May 22, 2010
Easily with a voice over like a woman reading from her diary, I could see this story as being a very touching and life changing film. With a romance similar to Nicholas Sparks'The Notebook as a reader there is a passion to shake open the minds of people shut off by social class and diversity. Following page by page in the mind and life of a simple woman, always on the outside of whatever group and situation she was in the lines of thought are interesting and for me easy to relate to.
This is the first whole book from author Eva Marie Everson that I have read, and it was not a sit down and get through it book. This was a deeper story that made you think and really understand the characters. There are a lot of meanings to the title and I believe that this is a learning and growing story for any reader. I do recommend it and look forward to going back to other books on my shelf from Eva as well as others to come.
*Thanks to Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
This is the first whole book from author Eva Marie Everson that I have read, and it was not a sit down and get through it book. This was a deeper story that made you think and really understand the characters. There are a lot of meanings to the title and I believe that this is a learning and growing story for any reader. I do recommend it and look forward to going back to other books on my shelf from Eva as well as others to come.
*Thanks to Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
October 26, 2011
This was a solid 3.5 stars for me. This book walks the line between historical and Christian fiction. Normally I'm not a fan of Christian fiction, but really, other than the fact that Mariette's husband Thayne decides he's going to be a preacher... and a few scenes toward then end where Mariette finally finds her faith, it's not that evident that this is Christian fiction.
The book is set in the sixties in Georgia. Mariette was sent away to an all girls boarding school for high school and returns home to a town where she feels little connection. A chance encounter with a handsome young man, Thayne, at her father's factory leads her to make a decision that will ultimately change her life. She runs away and marries him.
Their life takes some unexpected twists and turns along the way, including Thayne's decision to pursue going to seminary to become a preacher. I really enjoyed the author's story-telling style... though I felt it wrapped up to quickly at the end. I would have loved a little more about the "Fine Life" Thayne and Mariette came to know!
The book is set in the sixties in Georgia. Mariette was sent away to an all girls boarding school for high school and returns home to a town where she feels little connection. A chance encounter with a handsome young man, Thayne, at her father's factory leads her to make a decision that will ultimately change her life. She runs away and marries him.
Their life takes some unexpected twists and turns along the way, including Thayne's decision to pursue going to seminary to become a preacher. I really enjoyed the author's story-telling style... though I felt it wrapped up to quickly at the end. I would have loved a little more about the "Fine Life" Thayne and Mariette came to know!
November 4, 2011
This was another free Kindle book. I liked the author's writing style and use of description. However, even though the book was set in the 60s, it was almost easy to forget that altogether, if not for a few mentions of houses that still had outhouses and the assassination of Kennedy (which was mentioned briefly and then not brought up again). I felt as though the author used description of wardrobe choices to anchor the story in the past, but there really needed to be something beyond that.
I enjoyed the pacing of the story and really became invested in the relationship of Mariette and Thayne, and I especially liked the characters of Missy and Rowena. It irked me that Thayne failed to communicate huge, life-altering decisions to his wife, and I also struggled to understand why someone who was so in love with the Lord did not make more of an effort to lead his wife to the Lord. All in all, it was an enjoyable read but not one I'm likely to revisit.
I enjoyed the pacing of the story and really became invested in the relationship of Mariette and Thayne, and I especially liked the characters of Missy and Rowena. It irked me that Thayne failed to communicate huge, life-altering decisions to his wife, and I also struggled to understand why someone who was so in love with the Lord did not make more of an effort to lead his wife to the Lord. All in all, it was an enjoyable read but not one I'm likely to revisit.
May 11, 2012
Character development = 1
Story development = 0
The only reason I gave this book three stars is because I fell in love with Mariette. Even though this book is set in the 1960's and our protagonist is married, I still related to her situation so much. I can not say much for the writing style of this author or the long drawn out story that doesn't pick up until about the last 50 pages...but Mariette's story is definitely worth dredging through everything else.
There is much to be said about the underlying issue of what should come first: God, marriage/family, church, etc. I don't agree with how Thayne is portrayed in this book (a pastor who puts everyone but his wife first) but this is a subject that many people among the Christian faith even disagree on. This is a Christian fiction book, but it is not preachy (in my opinion).
I would definitely recommend this book to Christian book clubs because I think it could spur some great debates.
Story development = 0
The only reason I gave this book three stars is because I fell in love with Mariette. Even though this book is set in the 1960's and our protagonist is married, I still related to her situation so much. I can not say much for the writing style of this author or the long drawn out story that doesn't pick up until about the last 50 pages...but Mariette's story is definitely worth dredging through everything else.
There is much to be said about the underlying issue of what should come first: God, marriage/family, church, etc. I don't agree with how Thayne is portrayed in this book (a pastor who puts everyone but his wife first) but this is a subject that many people among the Christian faith even disagree on. This is a Christian fiction book, but it is not preachy (in my opinion).
I would definitely recommend this book to Christian book clubs because I think it could spur some great debates.
June 3, 2011
The plot of this book was interesting, but I thought it ended abruptly. Suddenly she goes through a crisis, her prayer is answered and it's all ok! I appreciated the portrayal of the main character's feelings of rejection and being overlooked. I love to read things like that I can empathize with.
It was a bit annoying how the book kept tying in to events of the time - Elvis, JFK, the invention of color TV.
Also, it really bothered me that Thayne was always making important decisions without even consulting his wife! Oh, I'm quitting my job. Oh, I'm joining the ministry. Oh, we're moving. Then at the end, once she's gained a testimony, he sees fit to consult her. Ugh. Just because they don't see eye-to-eye on faith, doesn't mean he gets to make all the decisions. I thought he was a bit controlling himself.
It was a bit annoying how the book kept tying in to events of the time - Elvis, JFK, the invention of color TV.
Also, it really bothered me that Thayne was always making important decisions without even consulting his wife! Oh, I'm quitting my job. Oh, I'm joining the ministry. Oh, we're moving. Then at the end, once she's gained a testimony, he sees fit to consult her. Ugh. Just because they don't see eye-to-eye on faith, doesn't mean he gets to make all the decisions. I thought he was a bit controlling himself.
February 16, 2014
I absolutely loved and devoured this book. Eva Marie Everson has created characters that will steal your heart. Mariette is asked to be something she knows nothing about. For love's sake, she tries her best, but best isn't always good enough, at least in the eyes of the small town she's trying to win over—Logan's Creek, where everyone knows everything about everybody—or so they think.
Mariette's young husband, Thayne, becomes the new pastor of the town and its inhabitants, from the four sisters who are the descendants of the original Logan, who founded the town, to the crusty Minerva and a control freak who signs his paycheck. I just hope Everson continues the series. She sparked my imagination and I want to know the stories of the others within Logan's Creek. Novel Journey and I give This Fine Life a high recommendation.
Mariette's young husband, Thayne, becomes the new pastor of the town and its inhabitants, from the four sisters who are the descendants of the original Logan, who founded the town, to the crusty Minerva and a control freak who signs his paycheck. I just hope Everson continues the series. She sparked my imagination and I want to know the stories of the others within Logan's Creek. Novel Journey and I give This Fine Life a high recommendation.
January 7, 2012
A story that allowed me to travel back in time to 1959, to the 60's and early 70's. Although American, the idea of a fine life is not at all different with any other culture: comfort and happiness in a nice house and respectable community. Amidst these material aspirations, a fine spiritual life was not lost in the plot. It speaks of an awakening of the soul, albeit a little late. The book also talks about God's unlimited love and forgiveness. It is the story of a preacher's wife, but I didn't find it preachy at all, even with all those talk about personal relationship with the Lord. Overall, this is a good story that can be as applicable today as it was on the days of old. When you get right down to it, the good things never really change.
January 7, 2012
For a novel, this book read like an autobiography. Not that that is a bad thing, if it is well written, but there was a lot to be desired in that aspect with this book, imo.
There wasn't a lot of character development. You get to know the main character a little- but what you know isn't encouraging. She is pretty brainless: not dealing with important issues or thinking ahead at all for years at a time. Issues that come up are not so much dealt with as mentioned and then dropped.
The ending seemed to come really quick after slogging through the rest of the book hoping it would get better- and even then, the ending left a lot to be desired. So much was left unresolved and assumed.
It wasn't a horrible book, but it was definitely a time-waster.
There wasn't a lot of character development. You get to know the main character a little- but what you know isn't encouraging. She is pretty brainless: not dealing with important issues or thinking ahead at all for years at a time. Issues that come up are not so much dealt with as mentioned and then dropped.
The ending seemed to come really quick after slogging through the rest of the book hoping it would get better- and even then, the ending left a lot to be desired. So much was left unresolved and assumed.
It wasn't a horrible book, but it was definitely a time-waster.
June 11, 2011
Free download for nook. I enjoyed this one, although the characters' lack of communication irritated me at times. Starting in 1959 when Mariette graduates from Catholic boarding school, it takes us through her whirlwind romance with an up-and-coming employee in her father's factory, their elopement, her husband's somewhat surprising decision to become a minister, and their difficult first year in a small town, striving to be accepted by their new congregation. Though Mariette was raised as a regular church-goer, we see her struggle to really "get it". I found her eventual acceptance and understanding of God's love and her husband's devotion to Him to be rather abrupt.
April 26, 2012
This was a well written book about one woman's life. She was born of money and found love in someone who had no money. He decides to become a pastor in the 60's and is sent to a church in the middle of no where. Her life is hard but she comes to love it as she tries to find God, like her husband knows him. One quote that stands out is from her father in law. He told her that for the most part life was really good, but when it was bad it was really bad. She has her ups and downs but overall, I really think she ends up having a really fine life! I actually felt like I was living her life as I read the book.
August 17, 2010
In general, I did like this book. I liked the author's style of writing and enjoyed the storyline. I, however, thought it more than a little strange that the husband (who becomes a pastor in the book) did not try a little bit harder to lead his wife to the Lord. Here he was preparing to be a pastor and it didn't seem to concern him quite as much as it should have that his wife had no clear understanding of God, Who He really is, and what He had done for her. It just struck me as odd, I guess. But other than that, it was a pretty good read.
June 28, 2011
I seem to be the only one that absoulutely hated the book. I found Thayne a pathetic excuse for a husband, unable to support his wife after he pressured her to marry him, failing to discuss important decisions with her, ect. I found Mariette very childish who tended to blindly follow Thayne.
The only character I liked was Mariette's father. If not for her father eating the costs of almost everything, from their car, their jobs, to their furniture, to eventually letting Thayne and Mariette live with them, the couple would of been in dire trouble.
The only character I liked was Mariette's father. If not for her father eating the costs of almost everything, from their car, their jobs, to their furniture, to eventually letting Thayne and Mariette live with them, the couple would of been in dire trouble.
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