“If the Boot Fits” by Karen Witemeyer is an example of both historical and Christian fiction at their finest. As an added bonus, there’s a tie-in to the classic Cinderella story.
The story opens with the typical Cinderella elements (a ball, someone fleeing, and an abandoned piece of footwear). There’s a brief bit in which our heroine tries to match feet with the boot-wearer, but it’s not a key part of the plot. There’s a nice scene at the end linking the story back to Cinderella as well. I enjoyed these elements, and thought they fit into the book perfectly. However, don’t go into this expecting a true Texas retelling of the fairy tale!
For the most part, the book centers on the evolving relationship between Samantha and Asher. I found the slow-burn romance to be very authentic. The author includes enough scenes of the two together, talking and getting to know one another, that the reader can easily believe that their feelings are genuine. Since the course of true love never runs smoothly, the couple is hampered by Samantha’s father’s influence, Asher’s family’s financial problems, and some unknown villain attempting to kill Samantha.
I enjoyed reading about each main character separately, as well as the two of them together. The relationship between Samantha and her father, in particular, was well-written, and I liked getting glimpses into their past as well as witnessing their present-day interactions. Revelations about Samantha’s long-deceased mother come to light; these are interesting in their own right, and also affect Samantha’s understanding of her father.
I appreciated the faith aspects as well; as Samantha navigates the twin challenges of her blossoming romance and the attempts on her life, she grows in her faith and learns to rely more fully on God. All in all, she has a lovely personal growth arc, in her faith, in her familial relationships, and in her romance.
In conclusion, I have to say that this book has everything: romance, history, danger, and faith.
Definitely 5 slices of perfect sharp cheddar!