Oh, how I love visiting Hollyhill again. It's one of those places you love to return to. One of those towns where the people genuinely care for one another. Where everything seems possible, even in a small rural town, where life can be quiet. But life doesn't stay quiet for very long in Hollyhill. I'm so happy to once again read more about lively Jocie. She stole my heart in book one of the series, "Scent of Lilacs", (check out my review).
I'm sad to say I missed book two of the series, Orchard of Hope. It is one I'm going to have to go back and read. But all three surround the main character, Jocie Brooks. She is growing up quite fast, but once again it is pure joy to take part in her journey.
We are in the summer of 1964 when change seems adamant. So much is taking place with the characters of Hollyhill. New comers join the story. Some are joyful, but others are unwanted. There is a sweet marriage taking place, a teacher that is out of control, a stalker on the loose, and a returning character that brings Jocie to open her heart after it had broken.
Jocie is a character that is fun loving, spunky, and one that speaks her mind. I can relate to her on so many levels. My tongue often gets me in trouble too. Jocie wants peace to touch those she loves. Jocie loves the character named Jes. He is her adopted grandpa and when a family member visits town to see Jes, Jocie is torn. She doesn't want anyone taking her special place in his heart. She is very protective of everyone. She is such a strong character, yet vulnerable in many ways. I admire her spirit.
Ann Gabhart pens stories that touch the heart. I have read most of her books. Two of my favorites are, "Angel Sister" and "Small Town Girl". Ann's series are warm and inviting. You open one of her books and you know right from the start she is going to share a story that will bring you to another place and time, but always bring you right to the love of Christ. She is a favorite author of mine. I hope we see more of Jocie Brooks. She is a character worthy of sharing.
This novel was a gift from Revell for sharing my review with you.
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author ofAngel Sister, Small Town Girl, and Words Spoken True, as well as several Shaker novels--The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted--and The Heart of Hollyhill series. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Learn more at www.annhgabhart.com.
