By Kim Vogel Sawyer
Sometimes all you can do is hope... but when you've lost it how do you reclaim it?
Neva Shilling was a loving and dedicated wife and mother, but in an instant her world is shaken to its foundation. The man she thought she knew—her husband—has shattered all she has known. Even worse she can't ask him why? She can't vent her hurt, her anger, her feelings of betrayal because Warren's death was the catalyst that brought to light his ultimate betrayal.
Warren Shilling was loved by almost everyone who knew him—including his two families. Two wives and two sets of children who never knew that the other existed until death claimed Warren and one of his wives. Can these children ever be part of Neva's family? Or will they forever be a reminder of Warren's betrayal?
As Neva struggles through her grief, she works to keep the family's business profitable. But the Depression has hit the country and Buffalo Creek, Kansas, is no exception. How can she be expected to raise not two, but five children and take on the added responsibilities of the Mercantile? Neva's determined to give her husband's children a home, but can she ever give them her heart?
Can these unexpected children truly be a gift? Or are they a curse that will drive Neva from the place she calls home?
It is interesting reading as one goes through this book—which is told from the viewpoint of various characters. The feelings of hurt and confusion expressed by the children, especially Bud, are quite moving. Arthur Randall and Jesse Caudel make for an interesting study in contrasts as they deal with their own needs and with Neva Shilling and her situation.
This book is moving and touching. Of all the books by Kim Vogel Sawyer that I have read, I think that this has to be her best. This is not life seen through rosy-glasses. The anger, fear and prejudice that is displayed is believable and the motivations behind it understandable though often inexcusable.
Should the sins of the father fall onto the children? This is explored throughout Room for Hope.
I highly recommend this book. This is a story of growth, of redemption, of sacrifice, a story of hope. Older teens and adults who appreciate historical fiction that doesn't read like textbook will find much to attract their attention. The growth and changes that take place all come together to make room for hope.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my honest review and tour participation.
About the Book:
In a desperate time, can Neva find
forgiveness for a grievous wrong—
and make room for hope?
Neva Shilling has a heavy load of responsibility while her husband travels to neighboring communities and sells items from his wagon. In his absence, she faithfully runs the Shilling Mercantile, working to keep their business strong as the Depression takes its toll, and caring for their twins.
When a wagon pulls up before supper, Neva and her children rush out—and into the presence of the deputy driving a wagon carrying three young children. The deputy shocks her with the news that Warren and his wife have died, insisting it was their last request that the three children go live with “Aunt Neva.”
Neva’s heart is shattered as she realizes that Warren’s month-long travels were excuses for visits with his secret family. She wants nothing more than to forget Warren, but can she abandon these innocent children to an orphanage? Yet if she takes them in, will she ever be able to see them as more than evidence of her husband’s betrayal and love them the way God does?
Room for Hope Giveaway
Two (2) copies of Kim Vogel Sawyer's newest book
Room for Hope are being given away to two reader's.
Open to US and Canadian residents with street addresses.
Giveaway will run from February 16, 2016 at 12:00 am CST
until February 23, 2016 at 12:00 am CST.
Winners will be drawn and contacted on February 23, 2016
and have 48 hours to respond with their street shipping address
(Sorry no PO boxes) or an alternate will be picked.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
