When Hope Blossoms by Kim Vogel Sawyer

The first word that comes to my mind about this story is sweet.

When Hope Blossoms was my first story by this author, and I didn't know what to expect. Like I've told you before, I'm not a big fan of Amish (or Mennonite) novels. Some catch my interest; others just lack enough of a plot.

The beginning was slow. The back of the book uses the term blossom, and that is accurate. Just as flowers take loooots of time to blossom, this story takes plenty of time to gain momentum.

I did like the characters. The children were adorable, and Bekah's perspective was a welcome addition. Also, learning about the Mennonites was a plus. I loved the spiritual depth ! It was inspiring how fully Amy and her family relied on the Lord. Some "Christian" books are too light on their spiritual aspects, but this story most definitely was not. I respect stories like this one because of that.

So, while this wasn't my favorite read, I did enjoy it. I only hoped for more action, something to drive the story. Ultimately, I'd give it a three out of five stars.

*I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

(Image courtesy of Google)

Over The Edge by Mary Connealy

(Image courtesy of Google)

       This is one of my all-time favorite authors. These are the kind of books that I know I will enjoy reading. Humor, wit, cowboys, and strong females. These stories make me wish I lived back then, near a handsome cowboy ;)

Of course, I'd read the two books before this one -- I mean, duh! Reading the previous stories definitely adds to the enjoyment of reading this one. Honestly, I was soooo excited to be able to review this book that I was going to enjoy it no matter what!
Mary Connealy has a definite voice that separates her from other writers -- she is distinct. Sure, I knew somewhat what to expect, but the fun was getting there. Seth was seriously loco which added buckets of laughter to every scene.
I did, however, have an issue. . . *insert sad face here*.
The amount of talk about, um, passionate situations, was too much for me. I understood, to a point, why those feelings were shown, but they were laid on too thick for my comfort. Yes, this story is about a married couple, but still . . .I believe too much emphasis was placed on that part of marriage.
Don't get me wrong though. It's a clean book that deals with the brothers' flaws that are keeping them from trusting fully in the Lord.

I wish --Mary Connealy, please read this!--there would be another book about this family . . .let's not forget about that other brother . . .

;)