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The Days of Redemption #2
Ray of Light
In book two of Shelley Shepard Gray's Days of Redemption series, Roman Keim falls for a young widow while visiting the Amish snowbird community in Florida. As he faces his return to Ohio, can he ever forget Amanda Yoder and her daughter?
After all the uproar over his grandparents' secrets and his younger sister's engagement, Roman can't wait to head to Pinecraft, the Amish Snowbird community in Florida. He plans to enjoy a week's vacation with Uncle Sam and Aunt Judith and his cousins. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winters, and Roman is ready for a break from the drama. But the condominium next door is home to a young widow, Amanda, and her daughter, Regina. It soon becomes obvious that there's something special brewing between Roman and Amanda.
There's something attractive about Roman that Amanda can't deny. But in the two years since Wesley died, she's never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But as the week comes to a close, she knows she's given Roman part of her heart in spite of her attempt to remain distant. And Regina seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will Roman return to Ohio, and forget about the two sweet girls who have captured his heart?
After all the uproar over his grandparents' secrets and his younger sister's engagement, Roman can't wait to head to Pinecraft, the Amish Snowbird community in Florida. He plans to enjoy a week's vacation with Uncle Sam and Aunt Judith and his cousins. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winters, and Roman is ready for a break from the drama. But the condominium next door is home to a young widow, Amanda, and her daughter, Regina. It soon becomes obvious that there's something special brewing between Roman and Amanda.
There's something attractive about Roman that Amanda can't deny. But in the two years since Wesley died, she's never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But as the week comes to a close, she knows she's given Roman part of her heart in spite of her attempt to remain distant. And Regina seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will Roman return to Ohio, and forget about the two sweet girls who have captured his heart?
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2013
80 people are currently reading
613 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
126 books2,322 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 26, 2019
More great Amish fiction from Shelley Shepard Gray. I can't wait to read the next book!
July 2, 2022
Ray of Light by Shelley Shepard Gray 262±12 PS pages Paperback
The Days of Redemption #2
Genre: Christian Fiction - Amish Fiction; Romance - Christian, Amish, Contemporary; Inspirational
Featuring: Berlin, Ohio, Pinecraft, Florida, Belize, and Pennsylvania Family Drama, Traveling, Coming To Terms, Dog, Missionary, Illnesses, Author's Letter, Discussion Questions, Book Preview - Eventide 5 pages
Rating as a movie: PG
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My thoughts: Page 17 of 262, Ch. 3 - I'm thrilled to back in Florida. I'm enjoying these characters so far. 👌
📖 72 Ch. 8 - I'm loving this book more than the last one.
📖 95 Ch. 11 - I know what I want to happen but I have no direction which way this love story is going to go. I think I know about the grandmother but I'm not sure, I have 3 ideas. This book is anything but predictable, redemption indeed after that Amish Mystery series.
📖 151, ch. 17 - This book isn't as funny as the first one but it's more heartwarming.
I was only partially right about the grandmother's story. I loved all of the travel and locations in this book. It reminded me of the vibe of my first Shelley Shepard Gray book, The Promise of Palm Grove. The only thing missing was eating in restaurants. Overall I love this series and I can't wait to see what happens with Elsie.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This series is delightful.
The Days of Redemption #2
Genre: Christian Fiction - Amish Fiction; Romance - Christian, Amish, Contemporary; Inspirational
Featuring: Berlin, Ohio, Pinecraft, Florida, Belize, and Pennsylvania Family Drama, Traveling, Coming To Terms, Dog, Missionary, Illnesses, Author's Letter, Discussion Questions, Book Preview - Eventide 5 pages
Rating as a movie: PG
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My thoughts: Page 17 of 262, Ch. 3 - I'm thrilled to back in Florida. I'm enjoying these characters so far. 👌
📖 72 Ch. 8 - I'm loving this book more than the last one.
📖 95 Ch. 11 - I know what I want to happen but I have no direction which way this love story is going to go. I think I know about the grandmother but I'm not sure, I have 3 ideas. This book is anything but predictable, redemption indeed after that Amish Mystery series.
📖 151, ch. 17 - This book isn't as funny as the first one but it's more heartwarming.
I was only partially right about the grandmother's story. I loved all of the travel and locations in this book. It reminded me of the vibe of my first Shelley Shepard Gray book, The Promise of Palm Grove. The only thing missing was eating in restaurants. Overall I love this series and I can't wait to see what happens with Elsie.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This series is delightful.
May 29, 2013
The opening pages of Ray of Light tended to be somewhat confusing and disappointing to me in that the characters were alluding to personalities and events undiscernible at that point in the story. However, eventually it all fit together like a good story should with all the pieces basically falling in place.
I think we "Englishers" tend to compartmentalize the Amish in nice little farming or village situations far removed from our world. However, the more one reads about them, the more like us they seem. They have problems, disappointments, secrets which they hide, secrets which when revealed create major discord, joys, and pleasures in a variety of things. We learn, too, that they tire of the cold. Tire of sorrow. Tire of family problems. And they, too, must take refuge away from it all.
Our story opens with Roman Keim on the beach in Pinecraft, Florida, which is an Amish snowbird community. In the house next door, a lovely Amish widow and her young daughter, Regina, are also taking a few days of refuge.
It is soon revealed that Roman's world back in Ohio is not only cold in Winter, but there are problems, secrets, hurts which have caused him to need to get away and apart. And for the widow Amanda next door, she has been grieving for two years the loss of her dear husband and father of Regina after a long illness.
The demands, spoken and unspoken, of the Amish communities on each of these young adults must be addressed in how they individually will react. A sweet attraction develops quickly between Amanda, Roman, and the sweetie, Regina. But Amanda is criticized for not grieving longer.
I absolutely fell in love with the sweetie - little Regina. She steals Roman's heart as well. And in the mix, Amanda finds her heart is reaching out to a new life.
A very good, clean read which I can heartily recommend to teens and adults alike.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary review copy was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the Avon Inspire an Imprint of Harrper Collins Publisher and the author, Shelley Shepard Gray in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and no compensation was received for this review.
I think we "Englishers" tend to compartmentalize the Amish in nice little farming or village situations far removed from our world. However, the more one reads about them, the more like us they seem. They have problems, disappointments, secrets which they hide, secrets which when revealed create major discord, joys, and pleasures in a variety of things. We learn, too, that they tire of the cold. Tire of sorrow. Tire of family problems. And they, too, must take refuge away from it all.
Our story opens with Roman Keim on the beach in Pinecraft, Florida, which is an Amish snowbird community. In the house next door, a lovely Amish widow and her young daughter, Regina, are also taking a few days of refuge.
It is soon revealed that Roman's world back in Ohio is not only cold in Winter, but there are problems, secrets, hurts which have caused him to need to get away and apart. And for the widow Amanda next door, she has been grieving for two years the loss of her dear husband and father of Regina after a long illness.
The demands, spoken and unspoken, of the Amish communities on each of these young adults must be addressed in how they individually will react. A sweet attraction develops quickly between Amanda, Roman, and the sweetie, Regina. But Amanda is criticized for not grieving longer.
I absolutely fell in love with the sweetie - little Regina. She steals Roman's heart as well. And in the mix, Amanda finds her heart is reaching out to a new life.
A very good, clean read which I can heartily recommend to teens and adults alike.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary review copy was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the Avon Inspire an Imprint of Harrper Collins Publisher and the author, Shelley Shepard Gray in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and no compensation was received for this review.
May 9, 2013
I have come to the conclusion that Shelley Shepard Gray’s book’s are like a bag of Lay’s Potato Chips. You can never eat just one chip and you can never read just one of her books. Really, go ahead and try to stop after reading one! As soon as I finished Daybreak I immediately started thinking about the next book. See what I mean? Ray of Light is the second book in The Days of Redemption series. We find ourselves back in the seemly idyllic lives of the Keim family. If you read Daybreak then you know this reality is really not so. Roman Keim needs to escape the family drama which lands him in sunny Pinecraft, Florida. Roman keeps to himself and tends to be on the quiet side but being in Florida brings out a side of himself that even he is surprised about. He finds a sense of courage that he probably never knew existed until he left Berlin. Courage that led him to Amanda Yoder and her adorable little girl Regina. He feels a strong connection to Amanda and he thinks she may like him too. Perhaps a romance is on the horizon or is Roman putting the cart before the horse? They do live miles apart from each other and distance is not the only factor that could threaten their budding relationship. You didn’t expect love to be an easy bridge to cross, did you?
I always feel like I should thank the author after I read their work, especially if the book is as good as this one is. Ray of Light will not only capture your attention but your heart as well and for that Shelley Shepard Gray I am thankful. Kudos to you for writing another wonderful book and for your ability to always keep me coming back for another “chip.”
I always feel like I should thank the author after I read their work, especially if the book is as good as this one is. Ray of Light will not only capture your attention but your heart as well and for that Shelley Shepard Gray I am thankful. Kudos to you for writing another wonderful book and for your ability to always keep me coming back for another “chip.”
September 10, 2013
This is book two in the Days of Redemption series, continuing the the story of the Kiem's, a New Order Amish family, who we first "met" in Daybreak, book one. This time, the focus is on Roman, a 23 year old man who is vacationing in Pinecraft, Florida, to take a break from all of the family drama back home.
While he is there, he meets Amanda, a young widow who is also Amish, raising her 4 year old daughter Regina alone since her husband Wesley passed away from cancer two years ago. Amanda doesn't want to live the rest of her life alone, but she's not ready to let go of the past, but she begins to change her mind when she meets Roman, and the two become friends, and even Regina overcomes her shyness around strangers and bonds with Roman also.
They both consider a future together, but Amanda doesn't feel ready to leave Pinecraft, and her memories of Wesley, and Wesley's family behind, and Roman has obligations in Ohio that prevent him from moving to Florida; will they find a way to overcome those obstacles?
I enjoyed this story, even though I could predict how Amanda's and Roman's story would end, I still enjoyed the gentle romance of it. It also continued Viola's story from Daybreak, and we learn more of the family secrets that were opened up in the first book.
I am looking forward to the third and last book of the series, Eventide, which focuses on Roman's and Viola's sister Elsie, who is losing her sight to an eye disease. It was just released though, so I am going to wait awhile until I can get it at a reduced price. (I don't use the library here because it is very inconvenient for me to get to.)
While he is there, he meets Amanda, a young widow who is also Amish, raising her 4 year old daughter Regina alone since her husband Wesley passed away from cancer two years ago. Amanda doesn't want to live the rest of her life alone, but she's not ready to let go of the past, but she begins to change her mind when she meets Roman, and the two become friends, and even Regina overcomes her shyness around strangers and bonds with Roman also.
They both consider a future together, but Amanda doesn't feel ready to leave Pinecraft, and her memories of Wesley, and Wesley's family behind, and Roman has obligations in Ohio that prevent him from moving to Florida; will they find a way to overcome those obstacles?
I enjoyed this story, even though I could predict how Amanda's and Roman's story would end, I still enjoyed the gentle romance of it. It also continued Viola's story from Daybreak, and we learn more of the family secrets that were opened up in the first book.
I am looking forward to the third and last book of the series, Eventide, which focuses on Roman's and Viola's sister Elsie, who is losing her sight to an eye disease. It was just released though, so I am going to wait awhile until I can get it at a reduced price. (I don't use the library here because it is very inconvenient for me to get to.)
June 23, 2013
I found Ray of Light to be a delightful and heartwarming read and look into a different group of people. Still Amish, but of the New Order Amish instead of the more written about Old Order Amish group. Not only does this group allow telephones in the house, they also do more missionary work in other countries. Although this is the second book in the series, for the most part it is a stand alone novel. Reading Daybreak (first book in the series) might have given more insight into the romance of Viola and Ed but since they are secondary characters in this story of Roman and Amanda, it was not a necessity to know. I loved how Shelley brought Amanda from widowhood and single mother of a precocious four year old daughter Regina to seeing a ray of light on the horizon beyond. Shelley as well as Regina and Roman grew in their maturity in Christ through the book, which was moving.
As always, Shelley does a great job of bringing her readers into the lives of her characters, and with her fantastic ability with words has the world around them come to life.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity group for the purpose of writing an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions stated are my own.
As always, Shelley does a great job of bringing her readers into the lives of her characters, and with her fantastic ability with words has the world around them come to life.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity group for the purpose of writing an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions stated are my own.
July 26, 2016
This book follows the love story of Roman Keim, Viola's brother. It also continues to expand upon some of the Keim family drama that was originally introduced in the first book. I thought it was a pretty good story, and liked it a little better than the first one.
One thing I do like about this series is that the family seems real. Yes, they're Amish, but they struggle with issues just like everyone else which is something a lot of Amish type books neglect. People are people and they all go through the same kind of issues. So props to Shelley Shepard Gray for that one. I'll be starting the final book soon and I'm excited to see how things are resolved.
One thing I do like about this series is that the family seems real. Yes, they're Amish, but they struggle with issues just like everyone else which is something a lot of Amish type books neglect. People are people and they all go through the same kind of issues. So props to Shelley Shepard Gray for that one. I'll be starting the final book soon and I'm excited to see how things are resolved.
May 22, 2014
A more liberal Amish sect with more drama and outside world issues they face than the normal Amish romance, but I did enjoy it.
January 6, 2026
January 5, 2026
Rating: 1.5/5
First review of the year!
I did read the first book of this series, but I completely forgot almost everything that happened in it, so I jumped into this book and suddenly had to remember a whole lotta names, places, and events. Oh well.
I don't have much to say in terms of editing, which has been shoddy in multiple of Mrs. Gray's books that I've read. The only error that I caught was in chapter twenty-one when Viola and Ed are in Belize and Ed is mistakenly referred to in the text as Roman.
One thing that I found implausible was the amount of travel in this book. Roman goes to Florida multiple times in the book (which is a fifteen-hour bus ride), and at one point he even flies there. I think. It's heavily implied by this quote, anyway: "But as he thought of the countless hours that he'd have to wait on the bus down to Florida, with its many stops along the way, he made a decision. Yes, if Viola could go gallivanting about on planes for love, he could, too." So... you're telling me that Roman just... walks on a plane? Is that how that works? I, for one, would have loved to get some description of his airport experience. Did he get lost at the airport? Have trouble checking his bag if he decided to do that? Figure out what the fudge a carryon is? Was he flustered or panicked going through security because it's stressful? Could he find his gate? Was he marveling about how expensive airport food is? Did he internally complain about how cramped airplane seating is? Was he uncomfortable with his ears popping during the flight?
See how many fun details you can explore with just one little plot decision?
I finished this book a week ago and I'm honestly struggling to recall anything else about this book that was noteworthy. The dialogue is incredibly stilted, that's for sure. I have a twin brother and I don't go around calling him "twin" or "brother" like Viola, Elsie, and Roman do.
A lot of Amanda's character growth happened before the book started, so that made her not particularly interesting. It's been two years since her husband Wesley died from cancer, but eight months ago, she started opening up a little more and getting back to routine. Well, it's awesome that I missed out on that.
The obligatory third-act breakup was so annoying and unnecessary. Roman gets character-assassinated so that there can be a breakup and some drama when the real Roman (uninteresting as he is) wouldn't have acted pushy like that. If you break up so quickly like that, how the fudge can you be sure that the next minor argument won't break you up too?
It's in this book that Aaron the grandfather drops the bomb on his family that he had a first wife and child who died before he married Lovina the grandmother. It came so completely out of the blue that I thought I'd skipped a book or something. In chapter one, when Aaron is reading Roman's letter from Florida, he just stops in the middle of it and stares out the window. Then he's like, "Roman's note simply made me think of something that happened long ago. It got me thinking about the time that I buried my first wife and son." Then he gets up and leave.
Where the FUDGE did that come from?? Literally all that Roman's letter said was that he heard of a woman next door (Amanda) who's Amish, has a daughter, and is a widow; and he'd like to speak to her one day. That's it. How in the world does that warrant dropping the biggest bomb of buried history on your family and then just walking out of the room?? How does that make any sense?
And, uh... yeah, that's it.
Rating: 1.5/5
First review of the year!
I did read the first book of this series, but I completely forgot almost everything that happened in it, so I jumped into this book and suddenly had to remember a whole lotta names, places, and events. Oh well.
I don't have much to say in terms of editing, which has been shoddy in multiple of Mrs. Gray's books that I've read. The only error that I caught was in chapter twenty-one when Viola and Ed are in Belize and Ed is mistakenly referred to in the text as Roman.
One thing that I found implausible was the amount of travel in this book. Roman goes to Florida multiple times in the book (which is a fifteen-hour bus ride), and at one point he even flies there. I think. It's heavily implied by this quote, anyway: "But as he thought of the countless hours that he'd have to wait on the bus down to Florida, with its many stops along the way, he made a decision. Yes, if Viola could go gallivanting about on planes for love, he could, too." So... you're telling me that Roman just... walks on a plane? Is that how that works? I, for one, would have loved to get some description of his airport experience. Did he get lost at the airport? Have trouble checking his bag if he decided to do that? Figure out what the fudge a carryon is? Was he flustered or panicked going through security because it's stressful? Could he find his gate? Was he marveling about how expensive airport food is? Did he internally complain about how cramped airplane seating is? Was he uncomfortable with his ears popping during the flight?
See how many fun details you can explore with just one little plot decision?
I finished this book a week ago and I'm honestly struggling to recall anything else about this book that was noteworthy. The dialogue is incredibly stilted, that's for sure. I have a twin brother and I don't go around calling him "twin" or "brother" like Viola, Elsie, and Roman do.
A lot of Amanda's character growth happened before the book started, so that made her not particularly interesting. It's been two years since her husband Wesley died from cancer, but eight months ago, she started opening up a little more and getting back to routine. Well, it's awesome that I missed out on that.
The obligatory third-act breakup was so annoying and unnecessary. Roman gets character-assassinated so that there can be a breakup and some drama when the real Roman (uninteresting as he is) wouldn't have acted pushy like that. If you break up so quickly like that, how the fudge can you be sure that the next minor argument won't break you up too?
It's in this book that Aaron the grandfather drops the bomb on his family that he had a first wife and child who died before he married Lovina the grandmother. It came so completely out of the blue that I thought I'd skipped a book or something. In chapter one, when Aaron is reading Roman's letter from Florida, he just stops in the middle of it and stares out the window. Then he's like, "Roman's note simply made me think of something that happened long ago. It got me thinking about the time that I buried my first wife and son." Then he gets up and leave.
Where the FUDGE did that come from?? Literally all that Roman's letter said was that he heard of a woman next door (Amanda) who's Amish, has a daughter, and is a widow; and he'd like to speak to her one day. That's it. How in the world does that warrant dropping the biggest bomb of buried history on your family and then just walking out of the room?? How does that make any sense?
And, uh... yeah, that's it.
March 25, 2019
This is book 2 in the series, and it picks up where book 1 left off. All the family drama and recently revealed family secrets have taken a toll on Roman, and he decides to take a vacation for a couple of weeks. He travels with his cousins to Pinecraft, Florida, a small Amish beach community. There, he meets Amanda, a very young widow with a four-year-old daughter. Roman is smitten, and Amanda begins to question her decision to remain a widow the rest of her life. When Roman returns home to Ohio, he can't stop thinking about her and whether they could ever be together. Shortly after Roman's return, his sister Viola travels to Belize to visit her fiance - and to see if she will be able to be a missionary's wife. Meanwhile, another family secret is revealed. How much more can the family take?
A good story with an ending (no spoilers) that draws the reader to start on book 3!
A good story with an ending (no spoilers) that draws the reader to start on book 3!
February 10, 2018
Not my favorite book. I got a little confused trying to follow along with the settings/scene jumping. The Amish in this story seemed to have more luxuries - fridge, phones, etc...
Errors noted on 152 (Roman is coming to pick Amanda and Regina up in a buggy), 153 (now it refers to a van), 192 (Viola refers to Roman but it is supposed to be Edward), 205 (missing a word - make).
Errors noted on 152 (Roman is coming to pick Amanda and Regina up in a buggy), 153 (now it refers to a van), 192 (Viola refers to Roman but it is supposed to be Edward), 205 (missing a word - make).
July 31, 2017
I'm into some more Amish series books. This was a continuing story, enjoyable, light reading.
May 12, 2018
good but not great. worth reading
January 27, 2019
Nice. Amish theme. Book 2 of 3
February 23, 2019
An interesting read that has me caught up in the lives of the characters. I will order the sequel from the library today.
January 7, 2020
Good simple story. This one included a dog and the beach, perfection
March 4, 2020
Enjoyed this second installment in the series... very heart-warming.
December 16, 2020
OK - not great - continuation of Daybreak - draggy in parts
Read
January 25, 2022Didn't like.
June 17, 2023
Amish romance.
December 24, 2023
Good read
Read
April 28, 2024I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second book in the series about the Keim family. The author has a gift for making her characters come to life and this book didn't disappoint!
Read
April 30, 2021BORROWED ON HOOPLA
May 1, 2013
Ray of Light By Shelley Shepherd Gray Book Review
/ / R a y O f L i g h t / /
{ Review By Madi}
Title: Ray Of Light
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Source: Review Book
Number Of Pages: 262
ISBN: 978-0-06-220442-4
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: 2013
My Rating: 3 Out Of 5 Stars
D e s c r i p t i o n ( T a k e n F r o m www.goodreads.com ) ::
When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
M a d i ' s R e v i e w::
When I got "Ray Of Light" by Shelley Shepard Gray in the mail to review, I was a little surprised. Not because I dislike the author or because the cover was appalling, nooooo. I just didn't remember requesting it! Haha! I'm sure that I did, I just don't remember doing so. But I'm glad that I did. It was a good, quick read, and I read it in less than a day. And, hey, you'll never hear me complain about another book to add to my shelves!
So, once I got past my joy in receiving an unexpected blessing, I dove right in!
First off, I would like to start off with how much I like the lead male characters name.
I think Roman is such a unique and masculine name. The first thing that came to mind was a Roman soldier from way back when. Gives ya the shivers, doesn't it? Prince Charming took a stroll through my head when I read it. Anyhow . . .
I thought this book would have been perfect for a relaxing day at the beach under the shade of an umbrella. And not only because most of the book was placed on sunny California beaches. It was a light hearted story, and it put me in a good mood. I loved how despite Amanda's loss of her husband Wesley two years prior, she did her best to be content with her current situation. She still misses Wesley, but the ache in her heart was starting to fade.
Roman and Amanda meet when they are both vacationing and are staying in neighboring condos. Roman is instantly enchanted, and Amanda just wishes that he would stop ogling her. It's actually super cute to see how Roman treats not only Amanda, but her young daughter (Regina) also. It's so refreshing to see a real gentleman (even if it is only in a book). I certainly wish there were more guys like Roman in this world. Although they are rare, I'm quite sure that they really are out there somewhere. Because if I don't find my Gilbert Blithe I'm never gonna marry. But that's a little off subject.
The only thing that I wasn't overly fond of was the lack of "wow". It was kind of a bland and predictable story. I really like things that keep me on the edge of my reading chair. Something that takes my heart through the wringer. This book didn't really do that for me. But you might dislike that kind of thing. To each his own :) .
~ T h e L i t e r a r y M a i d e n s
/ / R a y O f L i g h t / /
{ Review By Madi}
Title: Ray Of Light
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Source: Review Book
Number Of Pages: 262
ISBN: 978-0-06-220442-4
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: 2013
My Rating: 3 Out Of 5 Stars
D e s c r i p t i o n ( T a k e n F r o m www.goodreads.com ) ::
When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
M a d i ' s R e v i e w::
When I got "Ray Of Light" by Shelley Shepard Gray in the mail to review, I was a little surprised. Not because I dislike the author or because the cover was appalling, nooooo. I just didn't remember requesting it! Haha! I'm sure that I did, I just don't remember doing so. But I'm glad that I did. It was a good, quick read, and I read it in less than a day. And, hey, you'll never hear me complain about another book to add to my shelves!
So, once I got past my joy in receiving an unexpected blessing, I dove right in!
First off, I would like to start off with how much I like the lead male characters name.
I think Roman is such a unique and masculine name. The first thing that came to mind was a Roman soldier from way back when. Gives ya the shivers, doesn't it? Prince Charming took a stroll through my head when I read it. Anyhow . . .
I thought this book would have been perfect for a relaxing day at the beach under the shade of an umbrella. And not only because most of the book was placed on sunny California beaches. It was a light hearted story, and it put me in a good mood. I loved how despite Amanda's loss of her husband Wesley two years prior, she did her best to be content with her current situation. She still misses Wesley, but the ache in her heart was starting to fade.
Roman and Amanda meet when they are both vacationing and are staying in neighboring condos. Roman is instantly enchanted, and Amanda just wishes that he would stop ogling her. It's actually super cute to see how Roman treats not only Amanda, but her young daughter (Regina) also. It's so refreshing to see a real gentleman (even if it is only in a book). I certainly wish there were more guys like Roman in this world. Although they are rare, I'm quite sure that they really are out there somewhere. Because if I don't find my Gilbert Blithe I'm never gonna marry. But that's a little off subject.
The only thing that I wasn't overly fond of was the lack of "wow". It was kind of a bland and predictable story. I really like things that keep me on the edge of my reading chair. Something that takes my heart through the wringer. This book didn't really do that for me. But you might dislike that kind of thing. To each his own :) .
~ T h e L i t e r a r y M a i d e n s
June 9, 2013
Shelley Shepard Gray in her new book, “Ray Of Light” Book Two in The Days of Redemption series published by Avon Inspire takes us into the lives of Roman Keim and Amanda Yoder.
From the back cover: When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family’s drama. But Roman’s own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn’t intend to get married again. But she can’t deny that there’s something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she’s given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
I made a mistake. I did not read the first book in this series, “Daybreak”. But that is okay as Ms. Gray did a wonderful job in keeping this a stand alone within the series. It helps if you know what happened in the first book however it does not detract from the current goings on. Amanda is a widow of two years with a daughter, Regina. She is not looking for a new husband, though she did promise her late husband that she would move on with her life. Roman is on vacation for just one week, moves in next door to Amanda, and makes friends with Regina. This serves as the catalyst for the relationship between Roman and Amanda. Amanda lives in Florida, Roman lives in Ohio and he is only going to be there for one week. How is this relationship ever going to work out? Ms. Gray deals with issues of the death of a spouse and moving into a new relationship, how a child deals with the death of a parent and accepting a new one and creating a blended family. Not easy subjects. In the hands of a lesser author working with all these elements might not work but Ms. Gray is so skillful this story shines brightly. Ms. Gray makes you care for all the characters and their journey. And it is a romance. Roman and Amanda have to learn how to trust God and each other to deal with their issues so that they can let go and embrace their future. It is watching all of this happen that is just plain fun and exciting. Well done Ms. Gray.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family’s drama. But Roman’s own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn’t intend to get married again. But she can’t deny that there’s something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she’s given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
I made a mistake. I did not read the first book in this series, “Daybreak”. But that is okay as Ms. Gray did a wonderful job in keeping this a stand alone within the series. It helps if you know what happened in the first book however it does not detract from the current goings on. Amanda is a widow of two years with a daughter, Regina. She is not looking for a new husband, though she did promise her late husband that she would move on with her life. Roman is on vacation for just one week, moves in next door to Amanda, and makes friends with Regina. This serves as the catalyst for the relationship between Roman and Amanda. Amanda lives in Florida, Roman lives in Ohio and he is only going to be there for one week. How is this relationship ever going to work out? Ms. Gray deals with issues of the death of a spouse and moving into a new relationship, how a child deals with the death of a parent and accepting a new one and creating a blended family. Not easy subjects. In the hands of a lesser author working with all these elements might not work but Ms. Gray is so skillful this story shines brightly. Ms. Gray makes you care for all the characters and their journey. And it is a romance. Roman and Amanda have to learn how to trust God and each other to deal with their issues so that they can let go and embrace their future. It is watching all of this happen that is just plain fun and exciting. Well done Ms. Gray.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 17, 2013
Summertime is the best time to find some exceptional books to take to the beach or lakeside to immerse yourself in and I've got a great recommendation for those of you that love Amish Fiction. Take Shelley Shepard Gray's latest novel from her Days of Redemption Series, Ray of Light. This is the second book in the series and even though it's part of the series, you can pick this one up as a stand alone and still enjoy it just as much as the first one, Daybreak.
In Ray of Light, we meet Amanda Yoder who is living in the beach side Amish town of Pinecraft in Florida. She has spent the last two years attempting to find a way to move forward in her life after losing her husband, Wesley and is raising her daughter Regina on her own. Despite all the help from her in-laws, they don't seem to think that two years is enough time before Amanda can attempt to find a new love for herself and Regina. She hadn't exactly been looking for anyone either but when her next door neighbors brother comes to town, he seems at ease in talking to Regina. She hadn't been socializing much since her father died and it seems she has found a true friend in Roman Keim.
The only problem with this romance is that Roman is strictly in Florida on vacation and is leaving back to Ohio in a week. What will happened between Amanda and Roman? Will they both be willing to walk away from a potential relationship or will one of them be willing to uproot their home and move closer to the other?
I received Ray of Light by Shelley Shepard Gray compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Avon Inspire, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. I've been a huge fan of Shelley's for quite some time and loved the blend of my favorite places Amish country in Ohio alongside a beachfront setting in Florida. It shows just how many times God will show us a ray of light in the darkest of our storms to teach us better things are on our horizon.
In relationship between Amanda and Roman there is hope being restored for each of them in the process. For Amanda its not only about finding love again but finding someone that it suitable for her younger daughter. Regina only makes the process that much easier when she befriends Roman before Amanda realizes what is happening and that relationship between them is genuine. Not just because Roman finds Amanda more than attractive. He understands the trust that must accompany his actions and words in respect to both Amanda and Regina. Now if they can only find a way to make the distance between them work. You'll have to read this one to see what happens along their journey as well for all the families involved. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
In Ray of Light, we meet Amanda Yoder who is living in the beach side Amish town of Pinecraft in Florida. She has spent the last two years attempting to find a way to move forward in her life after losing her husband, Wesley and is raising her daughter Regina on her own. Despite all the help from her in-laws, they don't seem to think that two years is enough time before Amanda can attempt to find a new love for herself and Regina. She hadn't exactly been looking for anyone either but when her next door neighbors brother comes to town, he seems at ease in talking to Regina. She hadn't been socializing much since her father died and it seems she has found a true friend in Roman Keim.
The only problem with this romance is that Roman is strictly in Florida on vacation and is leaving back to Ohio in a week. What will happened between Amanda and Roman? Will they both be willing to walk away from a potential relationship or will one of them be willing to uproot their home and move closer to the other?
I received Ray of Light by Shelley Shepard Gray compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Avon Inspire, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. I've been a huge fan of Shelley's for quite some time and loved the blend of my favorite places Amish country in Ohio alongside a beachfront setting in Florida. It shows just how many times God will show us a ray of light in the darkest of our storms to teach us better things are on our horizon.
In relationship between Amanda and Roman there is hope being restored for each of them in the process. For Amanda its not only about finding love again but finding someone that it suitable for her younger daughter. Regina only makes the process that much easier when she befriends Roman before Amanda realizes what is happening and that relationship between them is genuine. Not just because Roman finds Amanda more than attractive. He understands the trust that must accompany his actions and words in respect to both Amanda and Regina. Now if they can only find a way to make the distance between them work. You'll have to read this one to see what happens along their journey as well for all the families involved. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
May 30, 2013
I really enjoyed this book even though I had not read the first in the series.
Honestly, I didn’t realize it was part two when I requested and when I realized I was scared I wouldn’t be able to follow along but I had no issues whatsoever.
This was also the first time I had read anything by this author or about new order Amish so it was a real treat to read something different. I will definitely be picking up the rest of this series.
I thought the characters were realistic and very well fleshed out. I liked that they seemed real and had real issues rather than this perfect idyllic life that often prevents the readers from forming a connection with the characters.
It has been two years since Amanda’s husband died and she thought she would never find love again—until she met Roman. Their romance is brief however as Roman is simply on vacation and though they both care about one another it is uncertain whether the romance will blossom once they are long distance.
Roman returns to a home full of chaos. It seems past sins are resurfacing and secrets are bubbling to the surface. In all honesty—this poor family has more chaos and drama than a daytime soap opera. Everything from a wife that no one was aware of to a hidden past that was spent outside the Amish faith to problems with alcoholism.
But, as the book title suggest—eventually a ray of light arrives as the healing warmth of God envelopes those that seek Him. I won’t say how the romance or the turmoil ends up but I think people will be satisfied.
I’m also looking forward to book three—I really cannot wait to see what happens with Elsie, a young Amish woman with a degenerative eye disease that is blinding her. I want to see how things turn out for her and I’m really hoping she finds love as it seems her family thinks of her as incapable of loving or having her own family. I sure hope she proves them all wrong!!! This book is well worth the read.
View all my reviews
I received this book free from the publisher through a fantastic program called Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and opinions I have expressed are my own. To view other reviews and learn more about this tour please visit the Litfuse group by clicking here
Honestly, I didn’t realize it was part two when I requested and when I realized I was scared I wouldn’t be able to follow along but I had no issues whatsoever.
This was also the first time I had read anything by this author or about new order Amish so it was a real treat to read something different. I will definitely be picking up the rest of this series.
I thought the characters were realistic and very well fleshed out. I liked that they seemed real and had real issues rather than this perfect idyllic life that often prevents the readers from forming a connection with the characters.
It has been two years since Amanda’s husband died and she thought she would never find love again—until she met Roman. Their romance is brief however as Roman is simply on vacation and though they both care about one another it is uncertain whether the romance will blossom once they are long distance.
Roman returns to a home full of chaos. It seems past sins are resurfacing and secrets are bubbling to the surface. In all honesty—this poor family has more chaos and drama than a daytime soap opera. Everything from a wife that no one was aware of to a hidden past that was spent outside the Amish faith to problems with alcoholism.
But, as the book title suggest—eventually a ray of light arrives as the healing warmth of God envelopes those that seek Him. I won’t say how the romance or the turmoil ends up but I think people will be satisfied.
I’m also looking forward to book three—I really cannot wait to see what happens with Elsie, a young Amish woman with a degenerative eye disease that is blinding her. I want to see how things turn out for her and I’m really hoping she finds love as it seems her family thinks of her as incapable of loving or having her own family. I sure hope she proves them all wrong!!! This book is well worth the read.
View all my reviews
I received this book free from the publisher through a fantastic program called Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and opinions I have expressed are my own. To view other reviews and learn more about this tour please visit the Litfuse group by clicking here
May 21, 2013
About the Book:
When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
About the Author:
Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Sisters of the Heart, Seasons of Sugarcreek, Secrets of Crittenden County, and Families of Honor series. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.
My Review:
This book is much like the previous one in the The Days of Redemption series as it is capturing my attention from the very start. We are greeted with everyone in the Keim family gathered around Grandmother Lovina as she starts to read a letter from her grandson Roman who is away in Pinecraft, Florida. While on vacation in Florida Roman begins to notice his neighbor that just happens to be Amish. He learns through town gossip that it is possible she is a widow and has a daughter.
Soon the rumors are put to rest and Roman learns that everything he has heard is in fact true, much to his delight. Well, Roman's cousin Beth decides to introduce him to the girl he appears to be so fond of;Amanda.
Amanda doesn't seem too interested in him at first. It is definitely interesting to see how this all plays out especially since Roman feels like he has a somewhat boring life and very little to offer. This book, even though it is second in the series can pretty much stand alone. It would make for a great beach read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me for free for my honest review by Litfuse.
When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
About the Author:
Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Sisters of the Heart, Seasons of Sugarcreek, Secrets of Crittenden County, and Families of Honor series. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.
My Review:
This book is much like the previous one in the The Days of Redemption series as it is capturing my attention from the very start. We are greeted with everyone in the Keim family gathered around Grandmother Lovina as she starts to read a letter from her grandson Roman who is away in Pinecraft, Florida. While on vacation in Florida Roman begins to notice his neighbor that just happens to be Amish. He learns through town gossip that it is possible she is a widow and has a daughter.
Soon the rumors are put to rest and Roman learns that everything he has heard is in fact true, much to his delight. Well, Roman's cousin Beth decides to introduce him to the girl he appears to be so fond of;Amanda.
Amanda doesn't seem too interested in him at first. It is definitely interesting to see how this all plays out especially since Roman feels like he has a somewhat boring life and very little to offer. This book, even though it is second in the series can pretty much stand alone. It would make for a great beach read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me for free for my honest review by Litfuse.
May 23, 2013
Title: RAY OF LIGHT
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Publisher: Avon Inspire
May 2013
ISBN: 978-0-06-22044204
Genre: Amish/romance & women’s fiction
When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance…or the start of lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
RAY OF LIGHT is the second book in The Days of Redemption series. I didn’t have the opportunity to read the first book Daybreak and I wish I would’ve as RAY OF LIGHT referred back to some events I didn’t know anything about. However, for the most past, RAY OF LIGHT was an independent story.
I enjoyed getting to know Roman and Amanda, as well as her little girl. I also enjoyed getting to know about Roman’s family back home as their story is told, too, but that part is more women’s fiction. There are a lot of secrets in Roman’s family, and some drama. Roman feels he lives a quiet uneventful life, and sometimes he feels like a boring individual, but as the cliché goes, still waters run deep.
If you like Amish fiction, don’t miss RAY OF LIGHT. Again, read Daybreak first, as I really don’t think these books stand alone. Any of Ms. Gray’s books are recommended. Really good continuing stories. Discussion questions and a sneak peek at her next book Eventide is included at the end of the book. $12.99. 288 pages. 4 stars.
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Publisher: Avon Inspire
May 2013
ISBN: 978-0-06-22044204
Genre: Amish/romance & women’s fiction
When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance…or the start of lasting love?
After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.
In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.
Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?
RAY OF LIGHT is the second book in The Days of Redemption series. I didn’t have the opportunity to read the first book Daybreak and I wish I would’ve as RAY OF LIGHT referred back to some events I didn’t know anything about. However, for the most past, RAY OF LIGHT was an independent story.
I enjoyed getting to know Roman and Amanda, as well as her little girl. I also enjoyed getting to know about Roman’s family back home as their story is told, too, but that part is more women’s fiction. There are a lot of secrets in Roman’s family, and some drama. Roman feels he lives a quiet uneventful life, and sometimes he feels like a boring individual, but as the cliché goes, still waters run deep.
If you like Amish fiction, don’t miss RAY OF LIGHT. Again, read Daybreak first, as I really don’t think these books stand alone. Any of Ms. Gray’s books are recommended. Really good continuing stories. Discussion questions and a sneak peek at her next book Eventide is included at the end of the book. $12.99. 288 pages. 4 stars.
May 24, 2013
This story picks up where book one left off. All the family drama in the Keim familly has having proven to be more than Roman Keim wanted to deal with. He decided to take a well deserved vacation going from ice and snow of Ohio to the sunny beaches in Florida. His cousins have a condo right on the beach and they have invited him to come spend a week. It has been a healing experience for him. He is not a very outgoing person but since a lovely young woman, in the condo next door, caught his eye his world has become a whirlwind of emotions. Which is very good. The woman as well as her darling little four year old girl that have taken up a special spot in his heart.
Amanda Yoder is a widow of two years and she too is taking a well deserved vacation. The minute Roman Keim walk up to her on the beach he was like a ray of light. She could feel herself healing because of this handsome caring man. He was not only a healing balm for her but more so for her daughter, Regina. Regina did not trust anyone but to her surprise opened up like a flower to the sun. Amanda does not want to let go of her deceased husbands memory yet she is drawn to the possibility of a new love in her future.
The author writes of healing for so many of the characters in this book. Giving up the past to God and and going forward for the plans he has for them. Some of the characters cling to the pain of the past not so willing to give up what is eating them alive making them bitter and depressed. Why is it so hard to let go of the past? My heart ached for all the characters and was glad to see the healing process in all of them take place. My favorite characters in this book were Regina and Elsie they had more strength than all of them in the end.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Harper Collins for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.
Amanda Yoder is a widow of two years and she too is taking a well deserved vacation. The minute Roman Keim walk up to her on the beach he was like a ray of light. She could feel herself healing because of this handsome caring man. He was not only a healing balm for her but more so for her daughter, Regina. Regina did not trust anyone but to her surprise opened up like a flower to the sun. Amanda does not want to let go of her deceased husbands memory yet she is drawn to the possibility of a new love in her future.
The author writes of healing for so many of the characters in this book. Giving up the past to God and and going forward for the plans he has for them. Some of the characters cling to the pain of the past not so willing to give up what is eating them alive making them bitter and depressed. Why is it so hard to let go of the past? My heart ached for all the characters and was glad to see the healing process in all of them take place. My favorite characters in this book were Regina and Elsie they had more strength than all of them in the end.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Harper Collins for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.
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