Teen Book Review: Be: Rightfully Ours by Carolyn Astfalk

Rightfully Ours

by Carolyn Astfalk

Summary:

Sixteen-year-old Paul Porter's relocation to Pennsylvania is a temporary move during his dad's deployment. Or so he and his brother think, until devastating news lands on their doorstep.

Paul's new home with the Muellers provides solace, especially in the form of Rachel, his friend and confidante. Their abiding friendship deepens as they work side by side to uncover what could be lost treasure.

Will they acquire the strength of character and virtue to take only what rightfully belongs to them or are they in way over their heads, with more than a few lost artifacts at stake?

Review: 

Rightfully Ours is an enjoyable YA novel that delves into the importance and beauty of chastity.  This story is full of relatable characters, touching family traumas, teenage passions, and an intriguing mystery. I’ve read a few books by Carolyn Astfalk and always love her down-to-earth style. She is an accomplished Catholic romance writer for adults and, with Rightfully Ours, has brought her skills to the YA market. She does a wonderful job of portraying a genuine relationship and all the accompanying feelings and emotions.

When tragedy strikes Paul’s life, he finds himself going to live with the Mueller family. This new living arrangement start out fine, but when feelings develop between him and the family’s teenage daughter, Rachael, things get a little complicated. There are so many wonderful moments in this book as these characters grow and mature. And while this character-driven story delves into some extremely relevant relationship topics, it also keeps the reader engaged in a fascinating treasure hunt.

While purity and chastity can be difficult subjects to discuss, the author does a fantastic job of dealing with this important subject matter through an enjoyable story. Sometimes discussing the problems of fictional characters can offer a way to broach sensitive topics. Rightfully Ours is one of those books that might open up a meaningful dialog with your older teens.

Amazon Link

https://www.amazon.com/Rightfully-Ours-Carolyn-Astfalk-ebook/dp/B06XTCC1X3

A note from Reviewer:

As a writer and a mother, I’m always searching for wonderful Christian books for teens of all ages. I truly believe one way we can encourage teens in their faith is through fiction with positive messages, embedded in great stories. There are many fantastic Christian and Catholic teen novels out today but they can be hard to find. I’m excited to share some of these books with you.

Leslea Wahl

www.LesleaWahl.com