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Rosey Corner #1
Angel Sister
It is 1936 and Kate Merritt, the middle child of Victor and Nadine, works hard to keep her family together. Her father slowly slips into alcoholism and his business suffers during the Great Depression. As her mother tries to come to grips with their situation and her sisters seem to remain blissfully oblivious to it, it is Kate who must shoulder the emotional load. Who could imagine that a dirty, abandoned little girl named Lorena Birdsong would be just what the Merritts need?
In this richly textured novel, award-winning author Ann H. Gabhart reveals the power of true love, the freedom of forgiveness, and the strength to persevere through troubled times. Multidimensional characters face real and trenchant problems while maintaining their family bonds, all against the backdrop of a sultry Kentucky summer. Readers will be drawn into the story and find themselves lingering there long after they've finished the book.
In this richly textured novel, award-winning author Ann H. Gabhart reveals the power of true love, the freedom of forgiveness, and the strength to persevere through troubled times. Multidimensional characters face real and trenchant problems while maintaining their family bonds, all against the backdrop of a sultry Kentucky summer. Readers will be drawn into the story and find themselves lingering there long after they've finished the book.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2010
576 people are currently reading
2630 people want to read
About the author
Ann H. Gabhart
49 books1,056 followersAnn H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. At the age of ten, she started dreaming of writing stories others would want to read. That dream has come true as she's published over thirty-five novels. She and her husband have three children married to three beautiful in-law children who have gifted her nine grandchildren. She still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves playing with her grandkids, walking with her dogs, reading, and, of course, writing. Her Shaker books, set in her fictional Shaker village of Harmony Hill in the 1800's, are popular with readers. The Outsider was a Christian Fiction Book Award Finalist in 2009. Her Heart of Hollyhill books are Small Town, America books set in the 1960's. Angel Sister, a Rosey Corner book set during the Great Depression, was a best-seller and was followed up by two more stories about the Merritt sisters. She keeps her stories in Kentucky and has enjoyed going to the Kentucky Appalachian Mountains for some stories including These Healing Hills and Along a Storied Trail. And if you like mysteries, you can try her Hidden Springs Mysteries published under the author name, A.H. Gabhart. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com to find out more. There you can sign up for her newsletter where she does giveaways several times a year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
February 19, 2011
Every once in a while, I get to read a book that I just do not want to end. That is what Angel Sister was to me. I fell in love with this book very quickly and it grew on me more and more as I kept reading. Now, a small word of warning, this book is not a fast read. It is one of those books that needs to be savored and read at a nice, slow pace. I am actually really starting to like books that read that way because they have a lot of substance and a story with characters I want to spend a lot of time with. I did not find this book boring, that is not what I mean by slow. The Merritt family is a family with a troubled past, but they are all easy to like, especially Victor. His love for his wife and family is strong despite his problem with alcohol. Angel Sister is such a strong testimony to the power of forgiveness that readers will not want to miss.
I really loved every moment of Angel Sister and I can’t recommend this book strongly enough. This was one of the most pleasurable reading experiences I’ve had in a long time. I think Ann Gabhart is going to be a writer whose work I will always look forward to from now on.
This book was provided for review by Revell. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. This review is my honest opinion.
I really loved every moment of Angel Sister and I can’t recommend this book strongly enough. This was one of the most pleasurable reading experiences I’ve had in a long time. I think Ann Gabhart is going to be a writer whose work I will always look forward to from now on.
This book was provided for review by Revell. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. This review is my honest opinion.
May 7, 2018
I've only recently discovered Ann H. Gabhart's novels and WOW!! Angel Sister is the first book in a trilogy and it is AMAZING! This story makes you want to keep reading; I literally spent the entire day with my face in this book... I couldn't put it down. It is a riveting novel of life in a very small town and on the battlefield during WWI. Within a chapter, a character's thoughts will take him from "present day" 1937 to the days of his/her childhood and life leading up to that very moment. Wonderfully written with such dialogue that you could literally picture each conversation and "hear" their voices. This story is filled with "real" characters from this historical era; they felt true love, disappointment, sorrow, joy, forgiveness and even fear. Thank you Ann for reaching inside and touching my emotions with Angel Sister.
need-to-finish
June 12, 2013I need to move this to my need to finish list, because I can't go on reading it right now. And honestly, I could end up moving it to my newly created DNF shelf.
Some people might find this book enjoyable. But not me, at least not at this current time. I was becoming so bored while reading it, I found myself drifting off and wanting to do other things. So for now I'm DNFing this book.
I really don't like not finishing a book, in fact I have made myself finish many books over the years that I have not liked. Most times I end up giving the book a bad review/low rating. This one I decided it was best to stop now. Because it could just be me and not the book it's self. Just not feeling it right now.
I read to 42%, so I gave it a pretty fair chance.
Some people might find this book enjoyable. But not me, at least not at this current time. I was becoming so bored while reading it, I found myself drifting off and wanting to do other things. So for now I'm DNFing this book.
I really don't like not finishing a book, in fact I have made myself finish many books over the years that I have not liked. Most times I end up giving the book a bad review/low rating. This one I decided it was best to stop now. Because it could just be me and not the book it's self. Just not feeling it right now.
I read to 42%, so I gave it a pretty fair chance.
April 28, 2025
What an incredibly brilliant author it is who can write a story in the way this story was written, and the finished worked be a 5 star plus book. I've only read a handful of books where the writing style was so brilliant it blew my mind that anyone could weave such a unique story together in the way they did, and this book is definitely one! Not only is the story told from multiple points of view, but the story gracefully moves in and out of multiple timelines within each point of view as well. I generally space out reading books with dual timelines because I don't care for them as much, but this one pleasantly surprised me.
Aside from the brilliant writing style, the depth of each character, dynamics between characters, depth of the story on several levels, and rich faith based content, this book is shooting for six stars all around. While a little girl who shows up on the church steps is a central point of the story, there are so many other stories worked into her story, it just results in an amazing read that I loved every single word of. Looking forward to the second book in this series!
Last note, I listened to this on audio book and enjoyed the narrator.
Aside from the brilliant writing style, the depth of each character, dynamics between characters, depth of the story on several levels, and rich faith based content, this book is shooting for six stars all around. While a little girl who shows up on the church steps is a central point of the story, there are so many other stories worked into her story, it just results in an amazing read that I loved every single word of. Looking forward to the second book in this series!
Last note, I listened to this on audio book and enjoyed the narrator.
August 31, 2010
I'm very excited about this book that will be out on the market in February 2011. It's set during the Depression years and my what if jumping off spot for this story was the many stories my mother and my aunts told me about growing up during those years. They must have had the oddest neighbors in the world. I changed the people in their stories into my own fictional characters and made up a family drama with the flavor of their background in the setting. There is a parallel WW I love story along with the 1936 family story. So while you can't read it yet, I hope you will want to read it when it comes out next year.
October 21, 2024
This book is awesome! The tale of the oldest daughter of the preacher and later,her middle daughter. Kinda similar to a split time. The family trauma is deep and so present. I love how she showed them overcoming it and also how hard it is to overcome. The feeling of not being loved or worthy enough. It was amazing! It did move a bit slow but overall, an amazing story!
June 17, 2024
3.5 stars
I enjoyed the story a lot. However - the plot was honestly very heavy for me mentally, and I can't quite pinpoint why. Maybe because of the sheer hopelessness? Don't get me wrong, the entire book wasn't that way, but the first half definitely had me very somber. And, it didn't help that I was a lil confused as to whether the message of the book was that true love can conquer anything, or if it meant to say that true love can't replace prayer. It was...unclear.
Overall, however, I loved the setting, the small-town vibes, and most of the characters.
Let's talk about Evangeline, shall we? The child had no brains. She felt like a 100% unnecessary character, and it seemed that her only role in the book was to make us feel bad for Kate. (Although Kate is an absolute dear and I related to her SO MUCH) I kept expecting her to have some kind of a redemptive arc, but she sadly didn't.
However. I adored Nadine. Her resilience and determination to stay faithful and true to her husband despite everything was so inspiring and admirable. I lived Victor, despite his flaws. I loved Tori and Lorena. I loved Graham. Fern was creepy.
The end of the book was bittersweet but well done, and I look forward to reading the sequel!
I enjoyed the story a lot. However - the plot was honestly very heavy for me mentally, and I can't quite pinpoint why. Maybe because of the sheer hopelessness? Don't get me wrong, the entire book wasn't that way, but the first half definitely had me very somber. And, it didn't help that I was a lil confused as to whether the message of the book was that true love can conquer anything, or if it meant to say that true love can't replace prayer. It was...unclear.
Overall, however, I loved the setting, the small-town vibes, and most of the characters.
Let's talk about Evangeline, shall we? The child had no brains. She felt like a 100% unnecessary character, and it seemed that her only role in the book was to make us feel bad for Kate. (Although Kate is an absolute dear and I related to her SO MUCH) I kept expecting her to have some kind of a redemptive arc, but she sadly didn't.
However. I adored Nadine. Her resilience and determination to stay faithful and true to her husband despite everything was so inspiring and admirable. I lived Victor, despite his flaws. I loved Tori and Lorena. I loved Graham. Fern was creepy.
The end of the book was bittersweet but well done, and I look forward to reading the sequel!
February 28, 2016
A FEW SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW!
It’s the Great Depression and the Merritt family, as well as the rest of the inhabitants of Rosey Corner, struggle to survive. Kate’s father, Victor, struggles with alcoholism as he runs his horseshoe business. He’s trying to forget the tragedies he’s witnessed while fighting the war. Nadine, Victor’s wife, doesn’t think she can handle her husband’s addiction any longer, and is unable to provide the emotional support that Victor needs, so Kate steps in to shoulder the load. Both Victor and Nadine have extremely strained relationships with their fathers, and these relationships are tested as traumatic events happen in Rosey Corner.
When I saw the description of this book, I thought that Lorena Birdsong would show up at the beginning of the story, abandoned at the Merritt’s house. I was surprised that Lorena’s character was not introduced until about 100 pages into the book. She’s found abandoned on the church steps because her parents were too poor to feed her. Skinny, malnourished, and scared, she believes that Kate is an angel who’s come to rescue her.
There were a lot of flashbacks, going back to the days of Victor and Nadine’s courtship, then back to the present, that I was not expecting. I think the problems that this couple faced with their parents and their siblings were realistic and emotional.
I also found it a bit strange that two people – Kate’s father (a preacher) and Victor’s father (the owner of the largest store in the town – plus he’s one of the wealthiest men in town) had the power to decide the fate of Lorena Birdsong. It appeared that back in the thirties, the law didn’t have much power over the town, people just kind of did what they wanted and allowed the richest and most powerful people in town to dictate what would happen to others.
The tragic death of Victor’s brother, which happened several years ago, is also a bone of contention between father and son. Also, there’s an unusual twist in the story involving a brother (Graham) and a sister (Fern) who live out in the woods, separated from the town. Fern’s mind has not functioned properly since she had a serious illness and she roams the woods, cutting down trees and building her palaces.
This book was an interesting and emotional read. If you like historical stories that paint a vivid picture of the way of live during the Great Depression, then you’ll probably enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Baker/Revell for providing me with a free review copy.
- See more at: http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2011/02/...
It’s the Great Depression and the Merritt family, as well as the rest of the inhabitants of Rosey Corner, struggle to survive. Kate’s father, Victor, struggles with alcoholism as he runs his horseshoe business. He’s trying to forget the tragedies he’s witnessed while fighting the war. Nadine, Victor’s wife, doesn’t think she can handle her husband’s addiction any longer, and is unable to provide the emotional support that Victor needs, so Kate steps in to shoulder the load. Both Victor and Nadine have extremely strained relationships with their fathers, and these relationships are tested as traumatic events happen in Rosey Corner.
When I saw the description of this book, I thought that Lorena Birdsong would show up at the beginning of the story, abandoned at the Merritt’s house. I was surprised that Lorena’s character was not introduced until about 100 pages into the book. She’s found abandoned on the church steps because her parents were too poor to feed her. Skinny, malnourished, and scared, she believes that Kate is an angel who’s come to rescue her.
There were a lot of flashbacks, going back to the days of Victor and Nadine’s courtship, then back to the present, that I was not expecting. I think the problems that this couple faced with their parents and their siblings were realistic and emotional.
I also found it a bit strange that two people – Kate’s father (a preacher) and Victor’s father (the owner of the largest store in the town – plus he’s one of the wealthiest men in town) had the power to decide the fate of Lorena Birdsong. It appeared that back in the thirties, the law didn’t have much power over the town, people just kind of did what they wanted and allowed the richest and most powerful people in town to dictate what would happen to others.
The tragic death of Victor’s brother, which happened several years ago, is also a bone of contention between father and son. Also, there’s an unusual twist in the story involving a brother (Graham) and a sister (Fern) who live out in the woods, separated from the town. Fern’s mind has not functioned properly since she had a serious illness and she roams the woods, cutting down trees and building her palaces.
This book was an interesting and emotional read. If you like historical stories that paint a vivid picture of the way of live during the Great Depression, then you’ll probably enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Baker/Revell for providing me with a free review copy.
- See more at: http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2011/02/...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2011
Title: ANGEL SISTER
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Publisher: Revell
February 2011
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3381-0
Genre: Inspirational/historical/women’s fiction
Kate Merritt is fourteen years old, but during the Great Depression, she feels solely responsible for the entire running of her household. Her father is a drunk, her mother suffers from depression, and her sisters are fragile. Kate takes on the responsibility of making sure her drunk father is cleaned up and put to bed at night.
When Kate finds a little girl, Lorena, abandoned on the front steps of the church where Kate’s grandfather is pastor, Kate takes her in, becoming her Angel Sister. Unfortunately, this act of kindness causes great controversy with both Kate’s family and the church.
As the drama escalates, secrets are revealed. Could Lorena be just what her family needs? Or will her presence cause more problems than they solve?
I have read one of Ms. Gabhart’s previous books (The Seeker) and the tone and voice in both of these books are very different. I enjoyed The Seeker immensely and hoped to enjoy this book.
It did take a bit of a struggle for me to get into the book, but once I got past the spot that initially stopped me I enjoyed the story. The book is full of unique characters, all well developed, character that I both liked and disliked. Kate herself was amazingly strong for a fourteen year old. The story has a beautifully written ending, one that brought tears to my eyes. $14.99. 410 pages.
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Publisher: Revell
February 2011
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3381-0
Genre: Inspirational/historical/women’s fiction
Kate Merritt is fourteen years old, but during the Great Depression, she feels solely responsible for the entire running of her household. Her father is a drunk, her mother suffers from depression, and her sisters are fragile. Kate takes on the responsibility of making sure her drunk father is cleaned up and put to bed at night.
When Kate finds a little girl, Lorena, abandoned on the front steps of the church where Kate’s grandfather is pastor, Kate takes her in, becoming her Angel Sister. Unfortunately, this act of kindness causes great controversy with both Kate’s family and the church.
As the drama escalates, secrets are revealed. Could Lorena be just what her family needs? Or will her presence cause more problems than they solve?
I have read one of Ms. Gabhart’s previous books (The Seeker) and the tone and voice in both of these books are very different. I enjoyed The Seeker immensely and hoped to enjoy this book.
It did take a bit of a struggle for me to get into the book, but once I got past the spot that initially stopped me I enjoyed the story. The book is full of unique characters, all well developed, character that I both liked and disliked. Kate herself was amazingly strong for a fourteen year old. The story has a beautifully written ending, one that brought tears to my eyes. $14.99. 410 pages.
Read
December 9, 2019Ease yourself gently into the town of Rosey Corner, where you’ll soon become engrossed in the story of 14-year-old Kate Merritt and an abandoned little girl named Lorena Birdsong. With chapters that alternate between the point of view of Kate and her parents, we’re often taken back in time to her parents’ youth. The storyline will captivate you, while the themes of forgiveness and family relationships may challenge you. Definitely a series I want to finish reading!
October 19, 2020
After just reading a novella series that takes place during the Great Depression (Librarians of Willow Hollow), this book caught my attention since it takes place during the same time. It was such a sweet story and I am so glad I picked it up!
First thing’s first, the spiritual aspect of this book was amazing! While it has your typical holier-than-thou preacher and doubting Thomases along the way, the spiritual truth woven throughout the story was spot on! I really enjoyed how realistically it was portrayed and how life’s situations caused some characters to spiritually stumble and doubt, but ultimately rediscover the truth: God really does listen and care. By the way, everyone needs an Aunt Hattie!
The historical aspect of this book was very satisfying and I liked the little tidbits of things that were used or done back then. It made the story feel very real.
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: this book is definitely clean and has very little romance. During flashbacks of the main couple as teenagers, they share a couple of kisses, one of them being described as deep. When they’re newlyweds though, the woman who owns the house where they are renting a room pokes a little fun at them by letting them know their neighbors are hard of hearing… but she is of a motherly nature and doesn’t go too far with it. There is a moment where a woman exerts herself and sweat runs down her chest, but it isn’t put quite that way... And one of the men struggles with a drinking problem that stems from what he went through during WW1. Dead men he saw are spoken of, but nothing was described grotesquely, so no worries there.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series!
First thing’s first, the spiritual aspect of this book was amazing! While it has your typical holier-than-thou preacher and doubting Thomases along the way, the spiritual truth woven throughout the story was spot on! I really enjoyed how realistically it was portrayed and how life’s situations caused some characters to spiritually stumble and doubt, but ultimately rediscover the truth: God really does listen and care. By the way, everyone needs an Aunt Hattie!
The historical aspect of this book was very satisfying and I liked the little tidbits of things that were used or done back then. It made the story feel very real.
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: this book is definitely clean and has very little romance. During flashbacks of the main couple as teenagers, they share a couple of kisses, one of them being described as deep. When they’re newlyweds though, the woman who owns the house where they are renting a room pokes a little fun at them by letting them know their neighbors are hard of hearing… but she is of a motherly nature and doesn’t go too far with it. There is a moment where a woman exerts herself and sweat runs down her chest, but it isn’t put quite that way... And one of the men struggles with a drinking problem that stems from what he went through during WW1. Dead men he saw are spoken of, but nothing was described grotesquely, so no worries there.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series!
December 9, 2018
This was a delightful story with very likeable and unlikable characters, flaws and all. There were so real to me. I loved how they worked through their problems and turned to God for strength. The story centers around Victor and Nadine Merritt and their middle daughter, Kate. Victor is a veteran from World War One and struggles with PSTD and alcoholism. Kate is the responsible child and shoulders much emotional responsibility. Victor and Nadine have never been able to please the demands of their fathers and married against their will. The story alternates between their earlier life and the present which is now occurring during the Depression. Kate finds a homeless waif on the church step and the family fall in love with the little girl. Unfortunately the unreasonable grandfather's have other ideas and snatches Lorena away from them. This is a beautiful story that teaches about love and forgiveness and trusting God for help in difficult times.
August 28, 2021
I’m thankful a friend gave me a copy of this book, as I had been wanting to read Angel Sister. I’ve enjoyed every book I’ve read by Ann H. Gabhart thus far and this was no exception. What a powerful historical story with a strong, likable and resilient young 14 year old trying to keep her family together during the depression.
Kate found a young girl on the doorsteps of her granddad’s church and believed it was meant to be for her family to care for her. The controversial ensured between extended family members which gave way to plenty of action, heartbreaks but moments of rejoicing as some were released from their past addiction and thinking. I appreciate the historical aspects based upon family stories the author heard from her mother and sisters.
I would recommend this book to fans of historical fiction where life during the depression come a live in this reverberating tale. No review was required since I was gifted this book but have shared my own thoughts.
Kate found a young girl on the doorsteps of her granddad’s church and believed it was meant to be for her family to care for her. The controversial ensured between extended family members which gave way to plenty of action, heartbreaks but moments of rejoicing as some were released from their past addiction and thinking. I appreciate the historical aspects based upon family stories the author heard from her mother and sisters.
I would recommend this book to fans of historical fiction where life during the depression come a live in this reverberating tale. No review was required since I was gifted this book but have shared my own thoughts.
March 10, 2018
The setting of this book is is Rosey Corner, a small town in rural Kentucky, during the Depression.
Times are hard for everyone. The Depression is in full swing, food is scarce, jobs scarcer yet. Kate Merritt is the middle child of 3 daughters of Victor and Nadine. She is mature for her age, and tries her very best to keep the family intact, despite a father rushing towards alcoholism whose business is slowly going into ruin due to the Depression.
One day, Kate finds a dirty little girl named Lorena Birdsong on the church steps, and she takes her home. Luckily for Kate, the rest of the family becomes smitten with little Lorena, and it Kate realizes Lorena may be the answer to keeping her family together.
Times are hard for everyone. The Depression is in full swing, food is scarce, jobs scarcer yet. Kate Merritt is the middle child of 3 daughters of Victor and Nadine. She is mature for her age, and tries her very best to keep the family intact, despite a father rushing towards alcoholism whose business is slowly going into ruin due to the Depression.
One day, Kate finds a dirty little girl named Lorena Birdsong on the church steps, and she takes her home. Luckily for Kate, the rest of the family becomes smitten with little Lorena, and it Kate realizes Lorena may be the answer to keeping her family together.
March 28, 2021
I love reading about times when we didn’t have Internet or social media. The story truly tells of how we as people can trust God. The 14-year-old girl in the story is honest and it takes lots of courage to be honest where God is concerned. In the end, after her faith was tested her faith had developed and she teaches us to truly trust in God.
January 28, 2018
Powerful story but needed better editing. Got repetitive, and could have been “tightened up.” Less is more.
February 11, 2019
Awsome book! Touches on Forgiveness in tough circumstances, and moving on.
October 13, 2022
I really enjoy Anne Gabhart's books. They are sweet without being shmaltzy... they are rich.
October 31, 2024
pretty easy read, and i liked the characters especially Aunt Hattie 🥲 every time she talked i just wanted to hug her!!
August 28, 2018
parents, Victor and Nadine had let their fathers' expectation, rule so much of their lives. Kate, Lorena, Fern and Graham were very caring characters in this book. Victors' bad habit was involved too much in the book; but, overall the end of the story was full of suspense. "The strong find a way to keep standing. No matter what happens."
February 27, 2011
Its the summer of 1936 and the US is in the throws of the Great Depression. Fourteen year old Kate Merritt and her family live in the tiny town of Rosey Corner Ky. The Merritt sisters are totally different, Evangeline, is sixteen, and totally lovestruck, while ten year old Victoria loves to fish, leaving Kate to be the responsible one. Her father Victor, is dealing with inner demons, and more often than not turns to alcohol to get thru the day, while Kate's mother Nadine is a steady influence, she often relies on Kate to be the responsible one. When Nadine finds five year old Lorena Birdsong sitting on the church steps, the little girl believes that Kate is an angel, the Merritts open their hearts and home to little Lorena, but because of Victor's drinking problem, the town decides Lorena would be better off with a different family, but Lorena doesn't want to leave the Merritt's. Will the Merritt's be allowed to keep Lorena?
The characters literally jumped off the pages in this story. While the story centered around Kate, I enjoyed how the author gave us glimpses back in time to the days when Victor and Nadine were dating and became newlyweds. It was so easy to see how much Victor loved his family,even swallowing his pride and going to his fathers store to ask for credit so that he could feed his family.
How difficult it must have been for Lorena's mother to leave her at that church, relying on the kindness of strangers to take care of her precious daughter, reminding her to remember who she was, telling her to say her name every day so that she wouldn't forget, it just broke my heart.
I found the secondary characters really added to this story. It was interesting to learn who Fern's lost love was, and how she tied into the story, but I think my favorite secondary character had to be Graham, who was doing his best to take care of his sister Fern.
I have never read anything by Ms. Gabhart but this book makes me want to read everything she has ever written. She pulls you into her characters lives, by weaving a story so real that I had to remind myself I was actually reading fiction.This was one of those stories where you hate to see it end.
If your a fan of inspirational historical fiction, with characters that you wont forget, I highly recommend you read this story.
The characters literally jumped off the pages in this story. While the story centered around Kate, I enjoyed how the author gave us glimpses back in time to the days when Victor and Nadine were dating and became newlyweds. It was so easy to see how much Victor loved his family,even swallowing his pride and going to his fathers store to ask for credit so that he could feed his family.
How difficult it must have been for Lorena's mother to leave her at that church, relying on the kindness of strangers to take care of her precious daughter, reminding her to remember who she was, telling her to say her name every day so that she wouldn't forget, it just broke my heart.
I found the secondary characters really added to this story. It was interesting to learn who Fern's lost love was, and how she tied into the story, but I think my favorite secondary character had to be Graham, who was doing his best to take care of his sister Fern.
I have never read anything by Ms. Gabhart but this book makes me want to read everything she has ever written. She pulls you into her characters lives, by weaving a story so real that I had to remind myself I was actually reading fiction.This was one of those stories where you hate to see it end.
If your a fan of inspirational historical fiction, with characters that you wont forget, I highly recommend you read this story.
September 9, 2011
Victor, Nadine, and Kate Merritt are the main characters in this book. The story revolves around their past and present lives. Victor has a drinking problem which started when he was serving in WWI. I strongly suspect that Preston Merritt, Victor's Father, played a big part in it too. Preston was a man that his son could never please. Victor could do nothing right in his Father's eyes; the reason goes back to when Victor was growing up.
Nadine Merritt is the Daughter of Preacher Reece. She too could never live up to her Father's expectations. Her Father was always praying over her and quoting scriptures at her. She could do nothing right in his eyes.
Victor and Nadine married against both their Father's wishes. They were so happy early on in their marriage. Soon after marriage, Victor went off to fight in the war. Their lives would never be the same.
Kate Merritt is fourteen years old and the middle daughter in the family of three girls. Her mother depends on Kate to take over and help her father when he comes home drunk and to help her mother with household chores and other problems that might crop up. Kate never quibbles about it. She just does it.
This story goes back and forth between the past and present telling both sides of Victor and Nadine's life. This is a necessary part of this book. It has to happen this way in order to get the full picture of what happened and why.
A five year old girl named Lorena Birdsong is found by Kate sitting on the steps of Grandfather Reece's church. Her parents couldn't care for her and that is where they left her. Lorena sees Kate as her Angel. Has Lorena been sent from God to rescue the Merritt family from destruction?
This book is about unconditional love, hanging on to faith, and the ability to forgive. The Author, Ann H. Gebhart takes you through a variety of emotions. I felt their joy, their happiness, their anger and their pain. I lived it with them.
Nadine Merritt is the Daughter of Preacher Reece. She too could never live up to her Father's expectations. Her Father was always praying over her and quoting scriptures at her. She could do nothing right in his eyes.
Victor and Nadine married against both their Father's wishes. They were so happy early on in their marriage. Soon after marriage, Victor went off to fight in the war. Their lives would never be the same.
Kate Merritt is fourteen years old and the middle daughter in the family of three girls. Her mother depends on Kate to take over and help her father when he comes home drunk and to help her mother with household chores and other problems that might crop up. Kate never quibbles about it. She just does it.
This story goes back and forth between the past and present telling both sides of Victor and Nadine's life. This is a necessary part of this book. It has to happen this way in order to get the full picture of what happened and why.
A five year old girl named Lorena Birdsong is found by Kate sitting on the steps of Grandfather Reece's church. Her parents couldn't care for her and that is where they left her. Lorena sees Kate as her Angel. Has Lorena been sent from God to rescue the Merritt family from destruction?
This book is about unconditional love, hanging on to faith, and the ability to forgive. The Author, Ann H. Gebhart takes you through a variety of emotions. I felt their joy, their happiness, their anger and their pain. I lived it with them.
March 8, 2011
Kate Merritt is the middle sister. Though if you met Kate you would never guess she was so young. She is wiser beyond her young years. Kate is strong. She learned right away that being the middle sister meant caring for yourself. Kate has only cried about a dozen times. Kate helps care for her father. She tucks him in every time that he comes home drunk, helps her mother and cares for younger sister.
Lorena Birdsong is just five years old. Lorena is a pretty brave little girl. When Kate found Lorena sitting on the back steps of the church, she looked right at Kate and knew everything would be alright from that moment on. Kate was her angel. Kate knew that Lorena needed her but what Kate didn’t know is just how much the Merritt family needed Lorena.
Author, Ann H. Gabhart is a new to me author. After reading Angel Sister, I now have Mrs. Gabhart on my radar and will be checking out more of her books. I just absolutely fell in love with Kate, Lorena and the rest of the Merritt family. I felt though that Kate was the strong character. She really was the glue that binded her family together. Of course my second favorite person was Lorena. She was a breath of fresh air. She had the child like innocence quality about her that every time you looked at her, you could not help but smile. Everyone needs a Lorena in their lives. I was so happy to see Kate’s father shape up and care for his family. I could see though how he came to be in the situation that he was in prior to Lorena coming into the Merritt’s lives and home. Mrs. Gabhart writes with a grace about her. You could tell that the characters were like family to her. She wrote them with love. Angel Sister is a recommended read!
Lorena Birdsong is just five years old. Lorena is a pretty brave little girl. When Kate found Lorena sitting on the back steps of the church, she looked right at Kate and knew everything would be alright from that moment on. Kate was her angel. Kate knew that Lorena needed her but what Kate didn’t know is just how much the Merritt family needed Lorena.
Author, Ann H. Gabhart is a new to me author. After reading Angel Sister, I now have Mrs. Gabhart on my radar and will be checking out more of her books. I just absolutely fell in love with Kate, Lorena and the rest of the Merritt family. I felt though that Kate was the strong character. She really was the glue that binded her family together. Of course my second favorite person was Lorena. She was a breath of fresh air. She had the child like innocence quality about her that every time you looked at her, you could not help but smile. Everyone needs a Lorena in their lives. I was so happy to see Kate’s father shape up and care for his family. I could see though how he came to be in the situation that he was in prior to Lorena coming into the Merritt’s lives and home. Mrs. Gabhart writes with a grace about her. You could tell that the characters were like family to her. She wrote them with love. Angel Sister is a recommended read!
July 3, 2017
A memorable novel. The time period, post World War I during the Depression is realistically portrayed. The characters are believable and well-developed. As a middle child, myself, I could identify the Angel Sister's sense of responsibility as the doer among the kids, as well as being the one to keep the alcoholic family together as best she could. The many psychological situations that later affected the characters' lives were well developed for a number of the key characters in a true-to-life manner. This made me reflect on all my extended family members' personalities, how their patterns of behaviors possibly developed over time, and how and why each member may have been led to make key decisions in their lives. The Christianity in the book was presented per the time period in a typical small town. The churches and their beliefs powerfully affected the lives of the characters - both the positive viewpoint of the believers and the truth of those questioning God's existence. This is a book to love, to share, and to read again.
March 2, 2019
Historical fiction/Christian fiction
Although the label if historical fiction is correct, I'll forewarn that this is Christian fiction at it's best.
Angel Sister by Ann H. Gabhart is the first story in the saga of Rosey Corner, a little Kentucky town struggling to survive the Great Depression. This story spans several generations, with a series of secrets and mistakes coloring the lives of the families making up this little town. The common denominators in all of this is the best intentions, no matter how misguided, of parents wanting the best for their children, and the power of love and forgiveness.
This was a good story leaving me wanting more. Luckily there are two more books to the series.
Although the label if historical fiction is correct, I'll forewarn that this is Christian fiction at it's best.
Angel Sister by Ann H. Gabhart is the first story in the saga of Rosey Corner, a little Kentucky town struggling to survive the Great Depression. This story spans several generations, with a series of secrets and mistakes coloring the lives of the families making up this little town. The common denominators in all of this is the best intentions, no matter how misguided, of parents wanting the best for their children, and the power of love and forgiveness.
This was a good story leaving me wanting more. Luckily there are two more books to the series.
January 28, 2015
I had a little trouble getting into this story especially with it jumping between time periods. However, I am so thankful that I stuck with it.
Talk about flawed characters. The author does an excellent job creating realistic personalities. With the way the novel is written we get to learn about Kate's parents and how their lives together started as well as their current circumstances. Having this history brings with it details that explain so much.
It's amazing how one little girl can alter the course of so many lives. Love, faith, hope, and forgiveness are all a part of this compelling book. Very worthwhile read.
Talk about flawed characters. The author does an excellent job creating realistic personalities. With the way the novel is written we get to learn about Kate's parents and how their lives together started as well as their current circumstances. Having this history brings with it details that explain so much.
It's amazing how one little girl can alter the course of so many lives. Love, faith, hope, and forgiveness are all a part of this compelling book. Very worthwhile read.
February 26, 2016
Ann Gabhart is a phenomenal writer. Angel Sister is my first Ann Gabhart book, but I already have another waiting for me. I'm hooked.
This story of family life in the Kentucky of the 1930's came to life through the writer's voice and those of her characters-truly exquisite. It's a story of love and forgiveness of enduring through troubled times and then pushing on.
I would have given this book five stars, but the pacing is too slow for my personal tastes. Don't let that stop you from picking up a copy of this book for yourself. It is a touching and heart wrenching story that will be one to keep on the shelf for future reads.
This story of family life in the Kentucky of the 1930's came to life through the writer's voice and those of her characters-truly exquisite. It's a story of love and forgiveness of enduring through troubled times and then pushing on.
I would have given this book five stars, but the pacing is too slow for my personal tastes. Don't let that stop you from picking up a copy of this book for yourself. It is a touching and heart wrenching story that will be one to keep on the shelf for future reads.
November 6, 2014
This book had a rather slow pace but a very good storyline and characters. I really liked the variety of characters that the author included and they were very realistic with a wide range of personalities and character traits. Each had their good and bad points. I look forward to reading more books from this author as this was the first I have read.
September 25, 2011
I HATED this story. Cruel & viscous characters supposedly forgiven by prayer. It was tedious & frustrating - I'm compelled to finish books I start - this was a complete waste of time.
April 3, 2012
Just okay, I liked the story okay, but hadn't realized it was Christian Fiction, and although I am a christian, I don't generally read CF.
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