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Labor of Love (Gardens in Time) Paperback – February 9, 2022

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 175 ratings
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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?

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Previous page
  1. Book 1 of 3
    Gardens in Time
  2. Print length
    322 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    February 9, 2022
  5. Dimensions
    5.5 x 0.81 x 8.5 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    1951839501
  7. ISBN-13
    978-1951839505
  8. See all details
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Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Celebrate Lit Publishing (February 9, 2022)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 322 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1951839501
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1951839505
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.07 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.81 x 8.5 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 175 ratings

About the author

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Marguerite Martin Gray

Marguerite Martin Gray

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Marguerite enjoys the study of history, especially when combined with fiction. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and Spanish and has degrees in French, Spanish, and Journalism from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas and a MA in English from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene. She has two grown children and currently lives with her husband in north Louisiana. She writes historical fiction.

Hold Me Close: Revolutionary Faith Book One (Dec. 2018) is set in pre-revolution Charles Town and takes the reader into the lives of immigrants, ordinary citizens, and prominent historical figures at a time in which decisions are made that will change the world.

Surround Me: Revolutionary Faith Book Two (Jan. 2019) follows Elizabeth and Louis in 1774 Charles Town on the brink of war.

Bring Me Near: Revolutionary Faith Book Three (Feb. 2019) takes place in Charles Town in 1775 facing life changing decisions.

Draw Me to Your Side: Revolutionary Faith Book Four (Feb. 2020) finds Charles Town under fire in 1776.

Wait for Me: Revolutionary Faith Book Five (Feb. 2021) finds Charles Town besieged by the enemy with just one sovereign order: Wait.

Labor of Love: Book One in Gardens of Time (Feb. 2022) Amid the beauty of the gardens at Pitti Palace, evil schemes attempt to spoil the lives of the Medici household, 1560.

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7 out of 5
175 global ratings
Grey and DelSorbo just took me to another time.
5 Stars
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.
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Top reviews from the United States

Patti Mac
5.0 out of 5 stars Sweet but complicated love story
Reviewed in the United States on April 17, 2024
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Ana and Marco met when she was 5 years old but she does not remember him. Her father has asked him to check on her and report to him. Marco feels like he is spying on her and is not comfortable with it. He is a gardener in the Duke's service and she is cousin and companion to the Duke's daughters so they are not on the same social level. Still, they fall in love even though she is promised to a cruel, evil man. This is a sweet, clean love story suitable for all ages. The p!It is interesting and the story entertaining. I did find quite a few errors as if the who book were dictated by voice. Better editing would improve the book.
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Paula Krueger
5.0 out of 5 stars Refreshing Setting
Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2022
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The Christian historical fiction I am used to reading usually takes place in England during the Regency or Victorian periods, or World War II. This novel was refreshing because it took place in Italy during the Renaissance. That brought a different historical culture to the book. I also liked the focus on gardens and that the two main characters were connected by their love of gardens.
2 people found this helpful
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Beth Westcott
4.0 out of 5 stars Ana longs to be free.
Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2024
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I enjoyed reading Labor of Love and being transported to 16th century Florence, Italy. The author did a wonderful job of describing the gardens, the palace, and other settings. Surrounded by opulence within the royal Medici family, Ana wishes for freedom to choose her life's direction and longs for her country home. Marco's desire is to earn enough money to buy land and live out his dream. Suspense builds as we see men vying for wealth, power, and position through contact with the powerful ruling family. The novel reflects the author's historical research and skill with words. It's a lovely story of hope, faith and love.
2 people found this helpful
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful story!
Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2024
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Marguerite Martin Gray did a beautiful job in this historical story. Ana Giovani was in a family and helped with each of the daughters. She loved the out doors and grew medicinal and many other flowers. She meets Marco Rossi who was sent there to see if she was okay. Lovely story. Jeanette Stracner
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Twigi
5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2024
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Labor of Love was captivating from start to finish! Such sweet characters and the plot kept me enthralled and glued to the very end. Happy ending! Must read!!
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Yvonne Limburg
5.0 out of 5 stars Labour of Love (Gardens in Time Book 1)
Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2024
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This was a great historical romance! It gave you an idea what living in a palace would be. The outdoor life won and it ended beautifully.
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Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Love’s labor.
Reviewed in the United States on April 12, 2024
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Ana has lost so much in her life, her mother, her freedom to choose her life’s path, and now she is to lose her best friend to marriage. Ana loves dirt and what it can produce, herbs and flowers. She has lived with her cousins since her mother’s death. She has heard from her father, but not seen for these past twelve years, and now he thinks he can command her to marry the man the duchess has picked for her.
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Psalm 1
4.0 out of 5 stars Mystery, Humor, & Heartfelt Moments
Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2024
Labor of Love, written by Marguerite Martin Gray and narrated by Christa DelSorbo, immerses readers in the opulent and intriguing world of Pitti Palace, where a tale of love, faith, and societal constraints unfolds.

The narrative revolves around Ana Geovani, a young woman bound by the uncertainties of her role in the powerful Medici household. As her cousin's impending marriage approaches, Ana faces the imposition of an arranged marriage that adds to her fear and despair. The introduction of Marco Rossi, the newest under gardener at the palace, injects an element of secrecy that threatens not only his peace of mind but also his burgeoning connection with Ana.

What captivated me most was the refreshing setting of 1560 Renaissance Italy, providing a unique backdrop to the Christian historical fiction genre. The lush descriptions of gardens and the intertwining lives of the two main characters, united by their shared love for nature, added a layer of depth to the story.

Gray skillfully weaves a narrative integrating faith, life, and love, maintaining a steady and engaging rhythm. The well-developed characters, especially Ana and Marco, create a dynamic and authentic connection, addressing insecurities and personal baggage in their heartfelt love story. DelSorbo’s narration captures the essence of each character, making it easy and delightful for listeners to become fully immersed in their world.

Labor of Love is a recommended historical Christian romance that combines humor, mystery, and heartfelt moments. The picturesque descriptions, genuine characters, and well-paced narrative make it a captivating read, leaving me eagerly anticipating finishing the series.

I received an audiobook version of Labor of Love from the author and Celebrate Lit. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this audiobook review are my own. My review focuses on the audio production and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
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Top reviews from other countries

Toots Sullivan
5.0 out of 5 stars uplifting, and enjoyable,
Reviewed in Australia on April 23, 2024
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This book made my heart sing. It really did, from the beautiful descriptions to the relationships between characters, both good and awful, it is a promise of trusting to God and the wonderful ending. Completely clean.
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