The Hope Jar

(The Prayer Jars #1)

by Wanda Brunstetter

Description

What happens when making an elderly Amish couple very happy means going along with a lie that gets bigger by the day?

Michelle Taylor is not who her new family in Lancaster County believes her to be. The Lapps were looking for their long-lost granddaughter when they met Michelle and she assumed the identity of Sara Murray. Once homeless and hopeless, Michelle has come to love her new Amish friends and even considers the idea of romance among them.

Finding an old blue jar in the barn that is filled with slips of paper containing thoughts, quotes, and prayers by an unknown author becomes a boost to Michelle s budding faith but also convicting. How can she tell the truth without hurting the ones she has truly come to love?

Biography

Wanda Brunstetter is an award-winning romance novelist who has led millions of readers to lose their heart in the Amish life. She is the author of almost 90 books with more than 10 million copies sold. Many of her books have landed on the top bestseller lists, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publisher's Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and CBD. Wanda is considered one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre, and her work has been covered by national publications, including Time Magazine and USA Today.

My Perspective ~

The Hope Jar is an excellent read for newcomers to Amish fiction and young adult readers. Much in depth information pertaining to the Amish way of life is explained throughout this story of an older Amish couple and the deception a family imposter portrayed. 

I was disappointed that the entire book was based on the lies and misrepresentation of a young woman who deceived the Lapps into thinking she was their granddaughter. The deception began somewhat accidentally, but continued for several months which became somewhat bothersome. I had hoped to see some resolution and reconciliation in this story. I assume that will come through in the sequel which will become available in several months. This isn't one of my favorite books by this author. 

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. All expressed opinions in this review are my own.