Christmas Admirer

by Laura V. Hilton
Review & GIVEAWAY!

Description

Benaiah Troyer has loved Susanna King for as long as he can remember, but when his parents died in an accident a year ago, he broke up with her—for her own good. After all, he was now the sole caregiver for his three younger sisters. What woman would want to put up with that? Still, against his better judgment, he can’t help leaving her a gift now and then, anonymously addressing her name in big block print, just to catch a smile. Roses one month, maple syrup candy another; and maybe this time, something special for Christmas. 

Susanna has never gotten over losing Benaiah, but now the clock is ticking. Her father is selling his glass-blowing business, remarrying in January, and moving to Iowa with his bossy wife-to-be. Angry and frustrated, Susanna realizes she’s left with three options: one, go with Daed to his new home with a new mom; two, stay in Jamesport, Missouri, as an old maid; or, three, the best yet, flush out her mysterious secret admirer. But how could she be with anyone else when her heart is still with Benaiah?

Biography

LAURA V. HILTON is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with more than a thousand reviews published on the web. Her first series with Whitaker was The Amish of Seymour, including A Harvest of Hearts (2012 Laurel Award winner, first place in the Amish Genre Clash); and her second was The Amish of Webster County. Her most recent series was The Amish of Jamesport, featuring The Post Card, The Snow Globe, and The Birdhouse. Laura and her husband, Steve, live in Arkansas with their five children, whom Laura homeschools.

My thoughts ~

As in previous novels, Laura V. Hilton has impressed me with her insight into the hearts of numerous individuals. Her characters come alive with a credible and developing presence. Amish tradition is well researched through experience and observation. 

In Christmas Admirer several issues develop into a story of varied individuals and how they affect one anothers' lives, and intermingle in painful situations. Relationships are strained to the point of breaking, but the comfort and wisdom from seasoned family members are a balm to the young ones who are reaching out and searching to find themselves, and discover their roles for the future. 

Christmas Admirer consists of numerous challenges. Responsibilities, patience, generosity, tragedy and forgiveness are strong features broached throughout this sensitive novel. This is another keeper for my book shelf. I look forward to reading it again. Don't miss this tender story of broken spirits and resultant healing.

Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift, and this review is an honest expression of my personal opinions.

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