This charming historical fiction opens with a group of German Mennonite women forming a "Frauenverein" - a women's group to meet the needs of widows and orphans per James 1:27. It is here that we meet an interesting cast of characters.
Konrad is a widower with young twin boys. He finds himself facing two women who both have competing plans to help him over the summer break.
Augusta is a widow, teacher, and mother to Juliana. She is kind and gentle, and seeking to meet the needs of others though she herself is a widow. She genuinely enjoys the twins, who she teaches during the school year, and wants to give them a loving and safe place to spend the days during the summer.
Martina leads the Frauenverein, and she at first appears to be a stern leader with selfish ambitions. As the story unfolds we see another side of her, a gentle and hurting side. Childless and concerned about her husband's drinking, she hopes that bringing one of the twin boys into an apprenticeship with her husband will heal their relationship.
An interesting and delightful story unfolds as these women discover that sometimes blessing others bring blessing on oneself.
One of the things that I most appreciate about Kim Vogel Sawyer's books is the godly wisdom sprinkled throughout. There are always a few quotes for my commonplace book. Here is one from this book:
"We must chop sin from our lives the way we chop weeds from the garden rows. Sin keeps us from growing strong in the faith. and producing fruit for God's kingdom. One weed left to flourish can take over the entire garden. One sin can grow into many that overtake the soul." -Mutter
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
You can purchase your copy beginning April 18, 2023.
Disclaimer: I received an advance ebook for review purposes.
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