The Hope Jar (The Prayer Jars #1) by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Published by Shiloh Run Press on August 1, 2018
Genres: Amish & Mennonite, Christian, Literature & Fiction
Pages: 320
Format: ARC
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A Brand-New 3-Book Series from New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.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?
The author of today’s book, The Hope Jar, is Wanda E. Brunstetter. This book is the first in a three-book series called The Prayer Jars. Back in 2015, I actually met her when she was doing a book signing event at the local Wal-Mart here in Sarasota, Florida. At that time, I was able to get my mother, Gloria an autographed copy of one of her favorite Amish books. Ever since that meeting in 2015, whenever the opportunity arises to read and review one of Ms. Brunstetter’s books, I jump on it because my mother LOVES Amish stories.
Gloria recently mentioned this book and said she couldn’t wait to read it, so when I saw it available on NetGalley through my book blogging relationship with them, I requested it and was approved. Unfortunately, Gloria recently had eye surgery so she was unable to read this book after all.
The Hope Jar blends both Amish and contemporary fiction together, unlike many of Ms. Brunstetter’s other books, which are strictly Amish fiction. After I finished reading The Hope Jar, because it was such a great read, I’ve already requested the opportunity to read and review an advanced reader copy of the second book in the series, The Forgiving Jar, releasing in February of 2019. My mom really missed out on this one! I finished this book in just about the time it took one college football game to play on television.
Mary Ruth and Willis Lapp are at the bus station looking for their long lost granddaughter, Sara Murray. Michelle is at the bus station and Mary Ruth and Willis mistakenly think Michelle is Sara. since Michelle’s life is at a dead end, she decides to go along with the Lapps thinking and pretends to be their granddaughter just long enough for her to get her life under control
While she is on the Lapps’ farm, Michelle learns what it feels like to be truly cared for and loved, which is something she’s never had in her life. Michelle never had a real family, having grown up in foster care, and no one ever took the time to really get to know her and love her. Michelle blossoms under the Lapps’ love and she learns to love the simple life of the Amish. As she grows in this life, she starts to feel more and more guilty about the deception she is committing by living the life of Sara Murray instead of her own.
I loved Willis and Mary Ruth Lapp, although I did feel like they were a bit naive in never asking Michelle for proof that she was their long lost granddaughter. Regardless, they really portrayed the Amish that we’ve come to learn about and love through Ms. Brunstetter’s books – hardworking, faithful, loving and caring people. Their lesson on forgiveness was an example to readers of folks who follow the Word of God.
The Hope Jar had a very good story line and it was truly an inspiring story. The characters great and readers were provided with a well thought out message. The Hope Jar have woven the tale of two young women who have experienced tragedy and are at a crossroads in their lives. You can read an excerpt of the book by clicking >>>>>>> HERE.
Want to make your own prayer jar to pass along to future generations? CLICK HERE to download a printable template you can use to write out your sentiments. Just simply cut out each strip of paper when you’re finished and put them in the jar of your choice.
New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda’s stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards. She’s also written Amish cookbooks, Amish-themed devotionals, and several children’s books with Amish characters.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs. When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda writes about the Amish because they live a simple life, which she feels we all need in this day and age.
Wanda and her husband, Richard have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Besides writing books, Wanda’s a professional ventriloquist. In her spare time she photography, gardening, knitting, looking for shells and agates on the beach, and spending time with her family.
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I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review but chose to since it was a great book! Thank you!
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