"New Beginnings at Promise Lodge"
By Charlotte Hubbard
I have to admit that I was ecstatic when I discovered that Charlotte was weaving another fabulous tale about my friends, as well as introducing some new ones, who reside near and in Promise Lodge, my dream home! I say friends, and you will understand when you begin to read, because you can not help but be caught up in their lives. They are so realistically and well described that the reader becomes part of them , walking their rocky journey of life alongside them. Charlotte's character development never fails to amaze me. The problems these dear people have, become mine and their fears and worries as well.
The novel begins in the spring, a time of new growth and development. A just opened bakery sweetens the air with the baked goodness of all of their delectable treats.
Frances, a widow, after twenty years of marriage is ready to taste freedom and opportunity that her friends at Promise Lodge have. She is a strong woman who certainly isn't looking for a new husband. She will NOT be pressured into it even by her needy daughters. Her friendship with Preacher Marlin Kurtz is much more to her liking to the disgust of their prospective families.
The plot moves quickly and with many unexpected twists and turns. Frances suffers a serious injury, however hangs on to her independence, despite the protests of others. She certainly would never burden her friend , Marlin. Marlin works with the residents of Promise Lodge to help restore his dear friend's joy. These residents have so many quirks that they will amaze you with their unique ideas and ways to get things done. I giggled, I groaned, I cried and I cheered, as this unlikely group of individuals worked together- well, most of the time. The message of the novel comes through loud and clear. God does provide each of us with second chances. The future does not have to be bleak. God has it all in His hands! A blessed future awaits if only we patiently wait, listen and follow this plan.
I enjoyed the author's ability to go beyond stereotypes, showing us that strong women do exist and they can uphold their community's traditions and forge ahead to a bright future.
This book can be enjoyed as a stand alone , although it is part of the Promise Lodge series. I enjoyed Charlotte’s previous books so much that I eagerly dug in to this new adventure at my favorite place. It really was like going home, to a familiar, well loved home. Charlotte is an author who writes with compassion, understanding and yes, even humor. The complications of an Amish community in such a unique location appeals to me in a deep way. How grief and unexpected challenges are handled leaves me deep in thought. How can i improve my life? Do I take all that God offers?
This book was provided by the author . I was not required to produce a positive review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are honest and my own.
About the Author:
Charlotte Hubbard sold her first historical romance in 1990, and she’s been a slave to her overactive imagination ever since. As she writes, her stories invariably take on a life of their own, different from the way she proposed them: unforeseen characters and plot twists come along, and they keep her guessing right along with her readers!
Charlotte has lived in the Midwest most of her life. When she’s not writing, she loves touring historic homes, trying new recipes, crocheting, and playing with her Border Collie, Ramona. She’s a Presbyterian deacon, sings in her church choir, and plays in the percussion ensemble. She’s married to a fine man who—bless him—has never once suggested she get a real job!
Charlotte has lived in the Midwest most of her life. When she’s not writing, she loves touring historic homes, trying new recipes, crocheting, and playing with her Border Collie, Ramona. She’s a Presbyterian deacon, sings in her church choir, and plays in the percussion ensemble. She’s married to a fine man who—bless him—has never once suggested she get a real job!
Thanks so much for your wonderful review, Karla, and for featuring my book on your blog!
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