I found this book absolutely delightful! For a chick-lit book, it deals with darker issues than is what is normally found in the genre -- it's protagonist was emotionally abused by her mother and sexually abused by her cousin, yet the book is a warm, wonderful, life-affirming read with bits of real life wisdom sprinkled amongst its pages. I love finding a book that is both thought-provoking and a bit of rollicking escapist fiction at the same time.

Another reviewer found this book offensive but I fail to see why. It is clean, no provocative or suggestive descriptions, the one hint of nudity is there for humor's sake and is a very funny scene. She took exception to a description of a minor character's freckled and ample decollete...we are bombarded with far more suggestive things from the media every day.

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This is an interesting, heartfelt story filled with colorful characters, many who are trying to overcome difficulties, and with grace, courage, and the support of friends, are able to do just that. This is not your typical chick-lit, nor squeaky clean, but many of the main characters demonstrate the love of Christ in their lives, reaching out and helping each other.
I really loved Scarlett and her wonderful life lessons taught through everything from how to maintain a garden, to how to buy clothes. I could identify with Marion as she fought to let go of her abusive past, and forgive the ones who hurt her, cheering for her as she battled her shy, damaged self, refusing to give up.
The story flows pretty well, and is told from Marion's viewpoint, although it felt a bit disjointed in the beginning as she jumps back and forth between the present and her childhood memories. There are a few occasional curse words, fitting the character they come from; it's not pervasive though. It does have a few comical *ahem* flashes of a married couple caught in intimate moments, but nothing graphic. I liked the descriptions of the hushed Christmas scenes, sparking a renewed faith in Marion, and her sincere prayers.
If you're looking for a story with perfect people, neatly tied up storylines, happily ever after, this probably won't appeal to you. But if you, like Marion and the others in this story, have had some childhood trauma, battle social awkwardness or family dysfunction, and seek to move on with grace, faith and some humor thrown in, then you'll probably really enjoy this story. It grows on you. Besides, who can resist a story with a maid Marion and Robin Hood mixed in?

[I wish to thank the publisher for the complimentary copy of this book which I received in exchange for my unsolicited, honest review.)

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