Like a Lily Among the Thorns

Gabrielle Bernstein is a young woman in her twenties who works at the NYC public library. Her father abandoned her when she was young, and her mother has never developed a strong relationship with her. Things start getting rough for her when she gets an eviction notice. While Countess Ivanova gives her someplace to stay, she still has a lot to worry about, especially when it comes to her longing for family. Then everything changes when she inherits the bed-and-breakfast from her estranged and now deceased father. But the inn is filled with mysteries and secrets, a place considered magical by the locals. And what do the goddesses of myth and legend have to do with the inn?

Karen S. Bell's captivating novel is laden with unexpected moments and filled with magical realism. It is interesting to notice that a girl who has never felt a strong sense of belonging suddenly finds a new home and family. The inn she inherits is watched by goddesses with a mission to save mankind from destroying itself. Readers are introduced to a wonderful cast of characters, people who have unique gifts and abilities, brought together by a superior power. Themes of romance, nature, personal growth, consciousness, hospitality, and friendship are beautifully written. While Karen S. Bell presents themes that are idealistic, it features scenes written into the everyday realities of common people. The dazzling prose melds with exciting dialogues to create an enjoyable reading experience. The author skillfully weaves the backstories of the characters, helping readers understand how far many of them have come to be at the state of consciousness they now exhibit. The heroine of the story is a genuinely flawed, lovable character whose journey will have readers spellbound. It is as delectable as it is inspiring.