Saturday, January 17, 2015

Hope Crossing by Cindy Woodsmall

This is the compilation of all three of Ms Woodsmall’s books in the Ada’s House Trilogy. I love that the publisher did this compilation as I have never been a fan of reading a story and waiting a long time for the next book in the series to be published.

The books are set in an Amish area and the author tells us the stories of several young couples. The author creates complex characters that drew me into their stories, individual struggles and triumphs. The Amish setting and expectations for following the strict rules in the community are a big part of the stories.

I especially liked the character of Cara, as she is not Amish but enters the community and discovers, for the first time in a long time, a sense of family and support. She finds herself overcoming past hurts as she begins to discover true love with Ephraim.

Another favorite character is Sylvia who breaks out of the expected mold and finds great joy in helping with the business end of farming. She loves the animals and has much to offer away from the kitchen and usual womanly duties on the farm.


I quickly read through all three of the books in the trilogy. The author held my attention and created a beautiful balance with her writing.