The Masterpiece

I haven't read a book by Francine Rivers in quite a while, but every book I have read by her, I have enjoyed. She captures time, place, and detail in such a captivating manner. Her characters have depth and a variety. In this book she alternates between the present and past circumstances of her characters building the story's momentum. The two main characters, Grace and Roman, are not without past hurts and struggles and attempting to rise above them in their current lives. I enjoyed learning about them.There were multiple aspects of their lives I could relate to. Francine doesn't shy away from difficult issues of morality, character, and society. She includes gang life, foster care, divorce and much more, all well researched. Her story is believable and intriguing. You will find yourself caught up and lost in the pages of her book, as your emotions engage; before you know it, you'll be surprised at how much time has passed as you become part of the story. Francine also has a talent for weaving a tale of faith throughout the story-line as the characters grow and come to Christ. Two seemingly opposite people, from different worlds come together in this inspiring account. These broken lives healed by a Savior are the perfect example of His transforming love. I enjoyed this book immensely and would highly recommend it. I was provided with a free copy courtesy of Tyndale publishers and the Tyndale Blog Network. All opinions are my own, and I was not asked to give a positive review.

This book is MASSIVE at nearly 500 pages. The cover is beautifully illustrated with sweeping, muted colors and a graceful image of a wing. The story is about two broken individuals struggling for survival. Everything screams symbolism in this story — the hot, desert-like environment, isolated home in the middle of nowhere, magazine-worthy house without a family to make it a home…it’s all a metaphor. Supernatural moments were surprising to encounter in this tension-filled romance. Unfortunately, I didn’t connect with these characters the way I’d hoped. Due to Grace’s situation as a single mother, she took advantage of a family trying to offer her a home. I felt resentful of her entitlement! Really, how hard is it to find childcare?! If she found the living expenses or job market to be too harsh, why not MOVE? On the other hand, Roman’s success as an artist allowed him too much freedom with his time and actions. He was almost hedonistic in his behaviors, making it hard for me to want him to become romantically involved with Grace. Though the big “twist” was so easy to see (even by the first 100 pages), it wasn’t the cathartic moment I expected it to be. The flashbacks provided by both characters set out the background. I found it to be too much information in far too many pages. It would have been just as well to hear a basic summary through some dialogue or even a getting-to-know-you conversation. Still, Rivers carried the story with a sweet reminder of God’s enduring love. Gentle words of encouragement and peace comforted me throughout the story. Thanks to Tyndale for sending me a free copy of the book. Opinions shared are mine.

I've only read one other book by Francine Rivers and that was Redeeming Love. When I finish a book by her I feel like I have been put through a wringer and hung out to dry. The Masterpiece was no exception. I find Ms. Rivers to be a very talented writer. She does not write fluff and is not afraid to tackle some very difficult subjects. This author has a way of bringing hope into the darkness. At times I found myself laughing, but more often I read with tears rolling down my checks. Her writing is very current. She can keep you on the edge of your seat. I really like the way she brings in scripture into her story and I didn't find “it Preachy” as some people would say. I appreciate the way Ms. Rivers uses her God given talent to touch others with her artistry. I believe A Masterpiece is the perfect title for this novel.