Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate

Hope Springs

Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate is a Christian novel that deals with many family and personal dynamics. The story is set in the small Southern town of Hope Springs.  With her husband serving a medical mission out of the country, Stephanie returns home to become a caregiver for her terminally ill grandmother.  Janelle, with her two small children, hopes to find solace in her childhood home town as she mourns the death of her husband.   Becca comes to Hope Springs, her husband’s boyhood home, with misgivings over leaving the big city that affords her contacts for her own ministry. These women, along with other family members, the diner waitress, and two pastors help each other deal with personal tragedies as they bond across racial differences.  The story contains several romantic subplots; for example, Janelle reunites with her high school boyfriend only to discover he is going through an acrimonious divorce.  Their relationship takes many twists and turns.

A strong Christian witness is embedded throughout the novel.   The characters are realistic and contemporary;  their problems and concerns are real.  Frequent Bible verses and references to holy living are emphasized.  At times, however, an overabundance of dialogue becomes tiresome to follow.

I was given a complimentary e-book copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

Arms of Love by Kelly Long

Arms of Love by Kelly Long

A young man’s repressed terrors, a young woman’s desire to marry the man she loves, and the Amish principle of non-violence – all of these, in the backdrop of the Revolutionary War, come together in Kelly Long’s historical Christian romance, Arms of Love.  While the premise of the book is compelling, the romantic tension between Adam and Lena becomes tedious.  Early in the story, in an effort to settle his personal demons, Adam says he will not marry Lena but will go to fight in the war, a repudiation of  his Amish faith. Yet, the two lovers continue to meet, too coincidentally.  There is just too much tedium between the exposition and the conclusion.  On the other hand, the story comes to a fitting and excellent conclusion.  All loose ends are tied up and the reader is somewhat surprised but quite satisfied.   The author explores Amish beliefs and habits with sensitivity. We learn not only about Amish views on violence but also about such traditions as “bundling” and the Amish wedding.  For the consideration of book clubs, Long’s novel contains an extensive question and answer section. The questions provided should provoke interesting discussion.  Overall, Arms of Love is a pleasant and pleasurable read.

I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.