Review of Hearts Journey by Linda Hoover

 

Series: Heart’s Desire

Publisher: Independently Published

Release Date: September 1, 2023

Author: Linda Hoover

Genre: Historical Christian Romance

This journey isn’t about the distance they travel but the trust they discover . . .

After narrowly escaping an arranged marriage, Boston socialite Julia Phillips joyfully marries the man she loves. But shopkeeper Jacob Anderson has farming in his blood. After their wedding in June of 1880, he takes Julia to Iowa where their best-laid plans soon fall apart. As they learn to rely on each other and God’s provision, He leads them to a promising opportunity. Julia bravely steps into her new role as a farmwife; with help from a few friends—and a sense of humor—she learns the skills necessary to care for her family. Just as Jacob and Julia become established within their close-knit community, a shocking loss threatens to divide them and destroy their dreams for the future. Is God still leading their journey, or have they lost their pathway home?

Fans of Jeanette Oke and Karen Witemeyer will enjoy this sweet continuation of Jacob and Julia’s love story.

“This lovely, faith-affirming story will steal your heart from the beginning chapter and carry it through to the satisfying ending. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.” —Kathleen E. Friesen, author of Hearts Unbroken

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MY REVIEW

Julia coming from Boston and home of privilege marries Jacob from New York. The story is set in the 1880s and they decide to purchase a farm in Iowa, even though neither one has any experience with farming. Julia never set foot in a kitchen or cleaned house. After a long trip by train and wagon, they arrive in Carsonville, but not without disappointment along the way.

Trusting God to lead them to the farm they desire, they meet neighbors who insist on helping them to fit into farm life. The entire story is faith-based and filled with God's blessings, but always in his timing. It's about family, forgiveness, relationships, love, understanding, and compassion.

The main characters showed great faith, strength, and endurance in their new life. The other townspeople showed kindness and a warm welcome. I loved seeing the other characters who were not saved, finding their way to Christ. The ending was great and a total surprise.

I received a complimentary copy of the book and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.