Grey and DelSorbo just took me to another time.

Marguerite Grey writes beautiful stories of a time that is unimaginable to many us. Some can hardly picture what life was like pre-WW2, and in Labor of Love, Grey paints us a picture of life in the Renaissance era and in the Medici Court.

What stood out to me the most is that how many of us could never imagine being betrothed to someone we have never met, let alone someone we liked. The wishes and desires of many of the people were probably the same as they are today. Fullness of life, liberty to live, as you choose, and the pursuit of happiness.

Ana wants these very things, but believes they will never happen for her. She is a pawn in a game for power. Marco wants them as well, but must keep his dreams close to his heart for fear that his station in life will rob him of what he truly desires.

Add the narration talent of Christa DelSorbo and you have an emotional roller coaster ride that stays with you for days. Her ability to speak in other languages and dialects make listening to this book and experience To be had.

This was a wonderful mashup, and I am so glad I took the time to listen. Bravo, ladies.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher through CelebrateLit Publicities. All views expressed are strictly my own.

About the Book

Book: Labor of Love

Author: Marguerite Martin Gray

Narrated: Christa DelSorbo

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 21, 2023

Something sinister lurks in Pitti Palace.

Despite having spent eight years as companion to her cousins, Ana Geovani still questions her role and place in the Medici household. This uncertainty compounds and alarms as her cousin’s marriage approaches and a marriage is arranged for Ana.

With no say in her own future, fear and despair dulls even the splendor of the gardens she holds so dear.

As the newest under-gardener at the palace, Marco Rossi should have everything he’s dreamed of—beautiful gardens to tend and master architects and gardeners to learn from. Yet a secret mission threatens his peace of mind, his position, and even the love of Ana. Although God is always with him, reminding him of a bigger plan, Marco feels the weight of the consequences he will face if he challenges a Medici member.

The desires of men and women, both royal and common, create costly dilemmas and potential disasters of hearts and souls. What will it take for Marco and Ana to prevail against everything driving them apart?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Marguerite Martin Gray is the author of the Revolutionary Faith series, Gardens in Time series, and Room for Love in the Suamalie Islands series. She enjoys researching and studying history. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and Spanish. She currently lives in North Louisiana with her husband and rescue pets. Her two adult children and two grandsons keep her up to date and young.

More from Marguerite

My audio book experience.

Do you enjoy audio books? They have become special companions since I now work at home. My first experience with audio books involved cassettes on long road trips which morphed into CDs. I would purchase the ones I knew I could listen to again or pass on to someone else. The library became a source to fulfill my burgeoning habit.

It took me a while to consider audible books as a “reading” endeavor. But when I really thought about it, I changed my mind. As I listen, I am challenged with new and old vocabulary words where I must deduce the meaning from the context. My concentration is zeroed in on the story unless I miss some strategic details similar to straying on a page and not knowing what is going on. I have the same euphoric reaction as the plot unfolds.

Now, I’m never without an audio book. When I was offered the opportunity to have Labor of Love presented in audio format, my heart quivered knowing what joy it could bring to readers while doing housework, caring for loved ones, or relaxing in a comfy chair. I hope you enjoy this format as much as I do.

Happy reading!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 7

Texas Book-aholic, February 8

By the Book, February 9

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 10 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, February 10

Exploring the Written Word, February 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 13

For the Love of Literature, February 14 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, February 15

Holly’s Book Corner, February 16

By The Book, February 17 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 18

Back Porch Reads, February 19

Artistic Nobody, February 20 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, February 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marguerite is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and an audiobook or eBook copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.