Ruth Fever [Paperback]

I was attracted to this book because of its striking cover photo - a close-up of a tulip springing from the rocky ground at the foot of the magnificent and powerful Niagara Falls.

The book was very well-written (in a style I aspire to write in), and the story moved along swiftly. I read it within in a couple of hours in one sitting.

It was very enjoyable heartwarming story about very likable characters who help each other heal. There is a spiritual componant - Ruth is a deeply religious woman who says a personal prayer upon arising and retiring each evening. There is a theme of strong Christian values running throughout - but it is presented in a subtle, non-intrusive way.

I also enjoyed the bit of Americana showcased in the classic car subplot!

Once more author Beverly Scott has given the reading audience a wonderful book. I read her first book, "Righteous Revenge", and was impressed. After reading "Ruth Fever", I am in awe.

"Ruth Fever" is a beautiful love story which centers around a 7-year-old troubled boy named Jason. Jason's teacher, Ruth, has noticed he has become withdrawn and wants to understand the reason why. Through her love of Edsels, Ruth meets Jason's father, Wyndom, and together they try to understand why Jason is not the happy, jubilant boy he used to be. While trying to figure out what is going on with Jason, Ruth and Wyndom fall in love with one another.

The author's love and knowledge of Edsels is evident and she weaves this into the story in a fun and informative way. The cat named Horse is a great character and Ms. Scott seems to have an inner knowledge about cats and the way their minds work!

Ms. Scott has the unique ability to write within a confluence of genres: mystery, romance, and inspirational, and do it well. Her narrative is wonderful, her descriptive beautifully delivered, her dialogue simply the best. She is without a doubt one of my favorite authors to read and I recommend this book, as well as "Righteous Revenge" to all.

This is a lovely book by a lovely writer and one I know we'll be seeing on the "New York Times" the best-seller list.

As was her first book Righteous Revenge, this author's second book, Ruth Fever, is a well written and entertaining read. In fact, I'll go on record here and state that anything this author writes deserves a devoted following. Each book is different, well plotted, with strong characters.

Ruth Dennison is 29 years old, a school teacher still grieving over the loss of her parents to a car accident. She prays every day to forgive the drunken driver who killed her parents and filled her days with sorrow. She treasures fond memories of her parents and the home they cherished. There has never been a special man in Ruth's life. She's lonely and depressed, but fills that empty void by devoting herself to the children in her classroom. One of her students troubles Ruth. Eight year old Jason Winters has swiftly gone from excellent happy student to pensive and withdrawn child. She suspects trouble on the home front and hopes to learn more from Jason's father.

Wyndom Winters is a 34 year old widower whose marriage was a heart breaking sham long before his ex wife died in a car accident. He and his son live with his alcoholic mother-in-law so Jason will have supervision while Wyndom works. When he meets Jason's teacher, Ruth Dennison, he's impressed by her sweetness. What follows is a gracefully written story of a troubled frightened child and the adults who try to bring joy back to his life.

Yes, before too many weeks pass, Wyndom has "Ruth Fever." He struggles with desire and hopes to establish a strong relationship that will lead to marriage. Theirs is a tender and passionate love story, but there are some tough obstacles standing in the way of happiness. Jason's cruel, alcoholic grandmother has plans for Wyndom and Jason that do not include Ruth. And the truth of how her parents died in the same accident as Wyndom's wife is a bitter pill for Ruth to swallow.

Ruth Fever is a satisfying read, a heart warming tale of two decent, lonely people drawn together by their love for Jason and each other. It gets my highest recommendation.