Loree Lough’s Currency of the Heart is Christian romance at its best, with believable characters, moral complexities, and nicely non-judgmental attitude. Set in Denver and its environs in the late 1800s, it tells the story of a woman whose life is shaken by the sudden death of her husband; her future is shaken by unexpected debt; her home is shaken by unforeseeable disaster; and her heart is shaken by a love she fears to trust. Characters with secrets in their past struggle to see past faith in God to faith in God’s provision. But a story filled with pleasingly believable characters, well-drawn authentic detail, and enjoyable plot leads to a recognition that we should value our own selves as well as others.

Past secrets, when revealed, give way to future hope and love, in a novel that’s filled with the adventure and excitement of a changing world, clever contrasts between ranch and town, and wisely drawn examples of judgment and love.

Do you know why brides wear something borrowed, something blue? Do you know what the Bible really says about suicide? Do you know the difference between love and duty? Thought-provoking, sweet, and thoroughly enjoyable, Currency of the Heart is more than historical romance, and highly recommended.

Disclosure: I won a free copy in a contest and I offer my honest review. ( )