What keeps a reader immersed in a story? More than just great characters that dance to life, but a passion that drives the story forward. A passion for God and the family that is held together in His love. A HOPE UNDAUNTED is just that kind of story.
I admit I didn’t like the heroine Katie, much at the start, she had such a long way to go before becoming likeable. I dangled by a thread while reading, bouncing back and forth like a ping pong ball as three men battled for Katie’s affection. At one point in the novel I didn’t know which way it was all going to go and was breathless.
There were moments of angst and laughter as I traversed with the characters. The O’Connors have become my family. I know and love them better, the more time I spend with them. I rejoiced and nearly cried, my heart wrenching for Katie at the crux of her relationships. But in the end my heart sang with the affection I feel for these characters.
But when I closed the last page and put the book my shelf, I was saddened. To leave them behind, these characters I have grown to cherish and adore is heart wrenching. Which I must say is the best part of a truly wonderful novel. Don’t let this one pass you by! A treasure!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
What a beautiful review!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you liked it Gina! Have you read Julie's fiction before? She is a MUST read!! :)
ReplyDeleteI just finished "A Hope Undaunted."
ReplyDeleteLike you, I really love this family (I read her three previous books) and can hardly wait for the next book in the series to be available. Even though I kind of knew how the book would end (who Katie would marry), there were a lot of unexpected twists getting there. Julie Lessman has quickly become one of my favorite authors.
Hi Pam! Glad you stopped by! Every book is predicable (to a degree), it is the getting there that is the thrill! (and is what makes it good) Julie is my favorite author too! Among many for sure, but pretty much at the top!
ReplyDeleteHahaha yes! We all know that Julie writes happy endings but you're right getting there is what makes her books some of the best out there!
ReplyDeleteLovely review as always. ;-)
XOXO~ Renee
Ahh, thanks Renee! I loved this book and I loved writing the review. Indeed, her books are some of the BEST out there. :)
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