Gilded Glitz, Gilded Grace

Perfect

Written by Kimberly Keagan

Series: Hearts on Display, Book 1

Published by Ventana Publishing LLC

Release Date: 05.06.25

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

4 Stars!

I picked this one up for the Gilded Age department store drama—and stayed for the heart.

Perfect is what happens when polished storefronts, polished manners, and polished reputations all clash—and grace walks in anyway. This story has all the charm of a well-dressed window display: bustling retail floor tension, class clashes, secrets tucked behind silk drapery, and just enough romantic sparkle.

“Remember, you’re a work of God’s hands. Perfect, just as you are.”  Let’s be real—Gilded Age society was obsessed with appearances. But this book? It dares to say you don’t have to perform for your worth.

There’s wit here, and warmth, and some moments that made me grin. There are also truths that hit gently, but linger long: “You give yourself too much credit. God is in control of that situation, not you.” That’s the kind of reminder you don’t expect to find while flipping through holiday displays and upper-crust drama—but oh, how needed it is.

And while the store itself may gleam with gaslight and grandeur, the message shines even brighter: “We must strive to align our actions with the higher moral principles that God has set before us…”

Spoiler: Perfect isn’t about perfection. It’s about perspective. About letting God rewrite what “success” looks like, even if it doesn’t come with a corner office or society’s approval.

There’s romance and rivalry with the foundation of grace beneath it all. Quiet, true, and absolutely fulfillment.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author and Book Sirens. 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 book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.