Book Details:
Book Description:
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.
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: Beautiful
There is so much I want to say about this story that I don't even know where to begin. I guess I should start with the fact that author Kelly Irvin has clearly done plenty of research and accompanied it with her insight. There is so much depth to her characters, making them so true to life. Her writing makes your heart completely go out to the characters and feel what they're feeling and dealing with.
Although Bethel and Declan have known each other since they were children, they've been more like acquaintances than anything else. I loved how their relationship began changing. I thought I knew where it was going. But, oh boy, was I mistaken when a complete curve ball came out of nowhere and things took off in another direction.
This amazing story is absolutely beautiful! There are difficult moments where faith waivers and worry rears its ugly head. But there are also moments where faith shines through even stronger than before. It is a mixture of joy, sadness, faith, hope, and love. This combination results in a beautiful and impactful story that will deeply touch your heart, especially when you are reminded to "rest in Gott."
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
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About the Author: Kelly Irvin
Kelly Irvin is a bestselling, award-winning author of over twenty novels and stories. A retired public relations professional, Kelly lives with her husband, Tim, in San Antonio. They have two children, three grandchildren, and two ornery cats. Visit her at https://www.kellyirvin.com/; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_irvin/; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kelly.Irvin.Author/.
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