He's the community's jokester auctioneer. She's the serious caregiver for her siblings who also works at the local plant nursery. What future could they have together?
Declan Miller has always had feelings for Bethel King. Back when they were in school, she was the smartest girl in the class and, in his opinion, by far the prettiest. Now the two of them are in their twenties and while the attraction is still there, Declan is as hesitant as ever to let Bethel know how he feels. His corny jokes and wisecracks cover a heart that's afraid of rejection.
Bethel can't deny Declan is nice, funny, hardworking, and pleasing to the eye--a perfect match if you asked any Plain girl in the area. But marrying Bethel would also mean marrying into her family. Two of her younger brothers have a rare form of muscular dystrophy, and her sister Claire is now showing signs of having it as well. Fiercely loyal and nurturing, Bethel has promised herself her siblings will always come first. With a good chance that she carries the gene and could pass it on to her children, Bethel has tried to convince herself marriage and family just aren't in the cards for her.
 |
| Amish waiting at a clinic in Lancaster |
When a devastating diagnosis of his own turns Declan's world upside down, he looks to Bethel for understanding, compassion, and a realistic outlook. As they share their dreams and fears and grow together in faith, a bond begins to develop between them. Perhaps their combination of optimistic extrovert and thoughtful introvert really isn't such a bad thing--perhaps it's actually a part of God's beautiful design.
My Thoughts
Matters of the Heart by Kelly Irvin is a touching Amish tale. This story focuses on the genetic disabilities among the Amish as a result of them intermarrying. We get to see the emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges that families face when family members have medical conditions (it can be overwhelming). The old adage “when it rains, it pours” came to mind when I was reading Matters of the Heart. Life is challenging when you have a relative (or in this case multiple relatives) with physical challenges (I know from experience). I enjoyed getting to know Declain and Bethel as well as their families. I was rooting for Declan and Bethel. Bethel’s siblings are so sweet and happy. They do not let their challenges bring them down (a lesson I could learn). Matters of the Heart is the second An Amish Calling Novel. It can be read as a standalone. Matters of the Heart was thoughtfully done with realistic characters and situations. This compelling story has ups and downs (have tissues nearby) along with a sweet ending.
Matters of the Heart is available from Amazon*. The Heart's Bidding is the first An Amish Calling Novel. The third An Amish Calling Novel is With All Her Heart and it will be released on January 28, 2025. You can find Kelly Irvin's other books here. If you follow the author on Amazon, they will send you an email when she has a new book release. Do not forget that July 16th and 17th are Amazon Prime Days. Thank you for stopping by today. Tomorrow I will be sharing my thoughts on A Controversial Cover by Lorna Barrett. It is the 18th A Booktown Mystery. I am off to make homemade noodles. Today is my mother's 79th birthday. She requested homemade chicken and noodles for dinner (I pushed for going out to eat, but I was unsuccessful). The noodles need to dry for a couple of hours before they are cooked. I am grateful that she did not request chicken pot pie! I hope that you have a joyful day! Take care, stay cool, and Happy Reading!
The
Avid Reader
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. I am not required to leave a review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Avid Reader.
No comments:
Post a Comment