The Gift of Joy by Kristen McKanagh

 The Gift of Joy

Book Summary

Joshua Kanagy’s older brother has left the family gift shop business, which is wonderful gute for Aaron, but not for Joshua. Horses are his talent—raising and training them. But how can Joshua step away from the shop when his parents have already had to give up the dream of leaving their legacy to all three of their sons?

Enter Joy Yoder, a determined, if sometimes misguided, helper who always manages to drag Joshua into her schemes and promises. Only now her focus turns to finding a solution to his problem, partly to distract from her own. Her mamm has her heart set on Joy marrying the minister’s son, and she’s not sure she wants to.

Joy gets the grand idea to propose to Joshua, offering a partnership of convenience rather than love. But as the wedding approaches, Joy starts to develop feelings for Joshua. Is it possible Gotte’s plan for Joy includes faith, friendship, and love?

My Thoughts

The Gift of Joy by Kristen McKanagh is a charming Amish tale.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading the second book in the Unexpected Gifts series.  Each book can be read as a standalone (in case you have not had a chance to read The Gift of Hope).  I like the author’s writing style.  It is engaging and makes the story easy to read.  I just loved Joy and Joshua.  Joy is such a lively character who brings sunshine and happiness to others.  Joy has a big heart.  She truly cares about people and wants to help them.  Her schemes, though, are often impetuous and land her in hot water.  Joshua is usually the one who rescues Joy.  However, there are times when Joshua finds himself in a predicament and needs a little assistance.  I enjoyed getting to know Joshua and Joy’s families.  I can see why Joy pushed the boundaries with the various rules her mother had in place.

Joy’s younger brothers are comical.  They get into more trouble.  Joy and Joshua are kept on their toes with those two boys.  I laughed often while reading The Gift of Joy.  There are misadventures, miscommunication, mayhem, and marriage.  Joy’s impetuous proposal takes these two friends down a different path.  What follows is a heartwarming story.  I like that we get to catch up with Hope and Aaron from The Gift of Hope.  I loved the descriptions of Joy’s beautiful quilts (I wish I could quilt like Joy).  The Gift of Joy is a roller coaster of a story.  There is romance, friendship, frustration, humor, and so much more.  I am glad the author included an epilogue that nicely wrapped up the story.  I look forward to reading Kristen McKanagh’s next story.  The Gift of Joy is a charming Amish tale with an impetuous proposal, two busy boys, a cute colt, matchmaking complications, miscommunication mayhem, a quilt quandary, benevolent bishop, and a caring community.

The Gift of Joy is available from Amazon*.  The first novel in the Unexpected Gifts series is The Gift of Hope.  You can find Kristen McKanagh's other novels here.  Thank you for visiting today and reading my book review.  I will be sharing my thoughts on Summer Secrets at Bletchley Park by Molly Green tomorrow.  I hope that you have a carefree day. I am off to work at clearing out clutter.  There is too much stuff in our tiny home.  It is the perfect time for spring cleaning (purging). Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader 

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