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The Oak Leaves #2
On Sparrow Hill
Two time periods—Victorian Ireland and contemporary England—are again woven together in this sequel to "The Oak Leaves." Rebecca Seabrooke is a commercial manager for Quentin Hollinworth's family manor and is focused on two things: running the best historical home in the country and forgetting about the childhood crush she's had on Quentin ever since her father worked as the valet for his family. They don't, after all, run in the same social circles. When Quentin's distant cousin Dana Martin Walker comes to visit the Hollinworth estate, Rebecca realizes she must confront some of her preconceived ideas about herself . . . and about Quentin. Dana wants to learn more about her ancestors—especially about Berrie Hamilton, who in 1852 decided to fulfill her sister-in-law's dream of opening a school for the mentally challenged. Dana also discovers that, despite their precautions, she and her husband are expecting, and their unborn child may turn out to be like many of Berrie's students. It will take reading Berrie's letters—written a century ago—for Dana and Rebecca to learn the importance of serving others and to realize that ultimately, even our best-laid plans are not always God's plans.
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First published January 1, 2008
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About the author
Maureen Lang
38 books209 followersMaureen Lang
Maureen Lang has always had a passion for writing. She wrote her first novel longhand around the age of 10, put the pages into a notebook she had covered with soft deerskin (nothing but the best!), then passed it around the neighborhood to rave reviews. It was so much fun she's been writing ever since.
Most of her books are historical, with an emphasis on faith and romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
May 23, 2012
Where I got the book: free on Kindle at publisher's discretion. Maureen is a friend in real life.
I zipped through On Sparrow Hill even faster than through the first book in the series, The Oak Leaves so I guess you could say I was engaged in the story. Or rather, stories. The novel uses the same alternating-chapter structure as the first book to follow two story lines, one in the modern day and one in the 19th century. This time there are also two full romance arcs, unlike in the first book where the modern-day story focuses much more narrowly on the issue of the Fragile X gene that makes having children a more risky proposition than the usual gung-ho process.
In On Sparrow Hill, although the modern-day story brings in some of the themes from the first book, the main obstacle to love's progress is good old-fashioned class consciousness. Rebecca is descended from the servants who kowtowed to the ancestors of her swain, Quentin, and has (if I may be permitted a Britishism) her knickers in a twist about it. In an age where members of the Royal family have to choose between being called "Sarah" or "Duchess" by American media hosts, and That Wedding put a commoner firmly in line for queenhood, my first reaction was "seriously?", but by the end of the book I realized that this story line rather cleverly reinforced a thumpingly good point about servanthood (best understood if you've got some Christian background) so now I'm cool with it.
As for the 19th-century story, where Berrie (from the first book) opens up a school for cognitively disabled children with an emphasis on training, I might have been skeptical that such a progressive place could exist had I not been familiar with the work of one Édouard Séguin who promoted that exact approach. The romance arc in this timeline was fairly conventional, although I absolutely loved the character Katie who brings the protagonists together (totally recognizable if you've had the privilege of spending time around cognitively disabled friends). And I was tickled by the obstacle-to-love being marriage itself (because that threatens to rob Berrie of her vocation); a nice nod to the changes in attitudes toward women that I've seen even in my lifetime.
This sequel has the theological implications of the faith/love/trust nexus in relation to disability better worked out than the first book, and by the large number of highlighters of certain passages shown by my Kindle, a lot of people derived some sort of comfort or guidance from the book's conclusions. Again, this novel is aimed at a Christian audience and readers who are not receptive to "Christian talk" may have slight problems (although far less than in the first book, I'm guessing). The servanthood/disability point was something I'd simply not considered before, and definitely worth thinking about.
My overall reaction to On Sparrow Hill is similar to my conclusions for The Oak Leaves; as inspirational romances go, this one has some interesting things to say and therefore comes across as nicely substantial while still being a satisfying romantic read.
I zipped through On Sparrow Hill even faster than through the first book in the series, The Oak Leaves so I guess you could say I was engaged in the story. Or rather, stories. The novel uses the same alternating-chapter structure as the first book to follow two story lines, one in the modern day and one in the 19th century. This time there are also two full romance arcs, unlike in the first book where the modern-day story focuses much more narrowly on the issue of the Fragile X gene that makes having children a more risky proposition than the usual gung-ho process.
In On Sparrow Hill, although the modern-day story brings in some of the themes from the first book, the main obstacle to love's progress is good old-fashioned class consciousness. Rebecca is descended from the servants who kowtowed to the ancestors of her swain, Quentin, and has (if I may be permitted a Britishism) her knickers in a twist about it. In an age where members of the Royal family have to choose between being called "Sarah" or "Duchess" by American media hosts, and That Wedding put a commoner firmly in line for queenhood, my first reaction was "seriously?", but by the end of the book I realized that this story line rather cleverly reinforced a thumpingly good point about servanthood (best understood if you've got some Christian background) so now I'm cool with it.
As for the 19th-century story, where Berrie (from the first book) opens up a school for cognitively disabled children with an emphasis on training, I might have been skeptical that such a progressive place could exist had I not been familiar with the work of one Édouard Séguin who promoted that exact approach. The romance arc in this timeline was fairly conventional, although I absolutely loved the character Katie who brings the protagonists together (totally recognizable if you've had the privilege of spending time around cognitively disabled friends). And I was tickled by the obstacle-to-love being marriage itself (because that threatens to rob Berrie of her vocation); a nice nod to the changes in attitudes toward women that I've seen even in my lifetime.
This sequel has the theological implications of the faith/love/trust nexus in relation to disability better worked out than the first book, and by the large number of highlighters of certain passages shown by my Kindle, a lot of people derived some sort of comfort or guidance from the book's conclusions. Again, this novel is aimed at a Christian audience and readers who are not receptive to "Christian talk" may have slight problems (although far less than in the first book, I'm guessing). The servanthood/disability point was something I'd simply not considered before, and definitely worth thinking about.
My overall reaction to On Sparrow Hill is similar to my conclusions for The Oak Leaves; as inspirational romances go, this one has some interesting things to say and therefore comes across as nicely substantial while still being a satisfying romantic read.
January 6, 2019
This was a wonderful book. Having read The Oak Leaves, I was familiar with some of the characters in this book. There were also new characters introduced who were thoroughly enjoyable to get to know. This book was an absolute joy to read.
January 30, 2012
When I first received my Kindle, I read the first book of this series by Maureen Lang entitled The Oak Leaves. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Cosima from Ireland but wasn't as caught up in the story of Talie in the U.S. Nonetheless, I had enjoyed the first and the series and was eager to read the second.
The second did not disappoint. I loved the story coming from the letters of Berrie to Cosima as much as I loved the story of Dana (Talie's sister) and Rebecca. I love the way the family history was woven together from generations long ago until the present day and the way certain familial themes emerged, not only the genetic condition of fragile X but the faith, hope and love these family members were able to express in their actions toward one another and to the Lord.
A few highlights:
"Yet there is something about her that reminds me of myself. Perhaps it is her unflinching belief that she is where she ought to be, despite all of the challenges." (Location 1703)
"Worry, I have learned, seems to be a virus. Once caught, it is nearly impossible to cure." (Location 1949)
"The greatest hope comes after surrendering, whether that hope is fulfilled in our lifetime or not." (Location 5014)
The second did not disappoint. I loved the story coming from the letters of Berrie to Cosima as much as I loved the story of Dana (Talie's sister) and Rebecca. I love the way the family history was woven together from generations long ago until the present day and the way certain familial themes emerged, not only the genetic condition of fragile X but the faith, hope and love these family members were able to express in their actions toward one another and to the Lord.
A few highlights:
"Yet there is something about her that reminds me of myself. Perhaps it is her unflinching belief that she is where she ought to be, despite all of the challenges." (Location 1703)
"Worry, I have learned, seems to be a virus. Once caught, it is nearly impossible to cure." (Location 1949)
"The greatest hope comes after surrendering, whether that hope is fulfilled in our lifetime or not." (Location 5014)
February 20, 2012
I picked up this sequel to Maureen Lang's 'The Oak Leaves' knowing that I would get absorbed in the story and enjoy a long weekend of reading. Lang weaves together two tales within a family's lineage, one from present time with one from generations past. On the surface one could say it is a love story (actually several in one book) that predictably ends 'happily ever after'. Yet there are deeper themes of unconditional love, servant-heartedness, bravery amidst oppressive control, and faith in God's provision, protection, and guidance that encourages us to accept what the Lord calls us to or allows in our life. Above and beyond all this, Lang educates the reader about the honest realities of emotions and responsibility involved in parenting and caring for children with special needs, those who were once termed feeble-minded lunatics.
July 7, 2015
Maureen Lang has a talent for combining two stories from different times in history into a coherent whole that keeps the reader involved. Two romances, a school for those who have fragile x, the struggle for acceptance when dating someone from a different social class, and accepting a pregnancy with a 50/50 chance of a severely disabled child all factor into this interesting saga. It will mean more if you read book 1, The Oak Leaves, first. There is definitely background necessary to fully grasp this sequel.
December 5, 2011
This was not a bad book. It addressed the not only parents facing the birth of a child with the potential of a life impacting genetic disorder, SPARROW HILL also had a romantic element. Although I enjoyed this title, I might not read the other titles in the series. I just didn't connect with the character on a level where I craved to know more.
April 4, 2015
Interesting story. Reader learns about fraigle X genetic disorder in the context of history as well as present day advancments . I dont usually read Christen stories but I not only enjoyed this one, I learned something. Writing style was great. I not only read the book, I experanced it as well. I may need to read other books by this author. Easy to read. I finished it in 2 work days.
June 28, 2014
I enjoyed this book because it shows us Special Needs Children in the 1800's and today. Hopefully, there was some truth to these comparisons, because it was interesting to learn what was done in the early days for these children; basically to love them & to show them there was always Hope & they were able to learn according to their own abilities & timetables.
April 22, 2012
Maureen Lang is one of my favorite authors so this book was long expected. I love Rebecca and even though I did not like Simon very much I warmed up to him by the end. Great book!
July 30, 2023
Ich habe das Buch durch Zufall gebraucht entdeckt und das Cover hat mich sofort angesprochen, auch der Klappentext klang vielversprechend. Vorallem das Setting in England in einem altehrwürdigen Herrenhaus konnte mich überzeugen:)
Die Geschichte wird auf zwei Zeitebenen erzählt. In der Gegenwart begleiten wir Rebecca, die als Historikerin arbeitet und das Anwesen Hollinworth Hall verwaltet. Durch gewisse Umstände stößt sie auf Briefe von Lord Quentins Urururgroßtante, deren Leben unmittelbar mit dem heutigen Hollinworth Hall zusammenhängt.
Zusammen mit Lord Quentin begibt sich Rebecca auf Spurensuchen und kommt der Vergangenheit Stück für Stück.
Die Vergangenheit wird aus der Sicht besagter Urururgroßtante erzählt. Berrie ist eine taffe junge Frau, die entgegen ihres Standes auf eine Heirat verzichtet um zu arbeiten und Kindern mit besonderen Bedürfnissen zur Seite zu stehen.
Ich fand die Geschichte teilweise schon interessant, allerdings war mir die Umsetzung ein bisschen zu langwierig und zäh. Die Geschichte rund um Rebecca und Quentin hat mir persönlich mehr Spaß gemacht zu verfolgen. Das Setting war wirklich schön beschrieben. Der christliche Aspekt war dezent in die Geschichte miteingewoben. Insgesamt eine nette Geschichte, allerdings kein Buch das man, meiner Meinung nach, gelesen haben muss:)
Die Geschichte wird auf zwei Zeitebenen erzählt. In der Gegenwart begleiten wir Rebecca, die als Historikerin arbeitet und das Anwesen Hollinworth Hall verwaltet. Durch gewisse Umstände stößt sie auf Briefe von Lord Quentins Urururgroßtante, deren Leben unmittelbar mit dem heutigen Hollinworth Hall zusammenhängt.
Zusammen mit Lord Quentin begibt sich Rebecca auf Spurensuchen und kommt der Vergangenheit Stück für Stück.
Die Vergangenheit wird aus der Sicht besagter Urururgroßtante erzählt. Berrie ist eine taffe junge Frau, die entgegen ihres Standes auf eine Heirat verzichtet um zu arbeiten und Kindern mit besonderen Bedürfnissen zur Seite zu stehen.
Ich fand die Geschichte teilweise schon interessant, allerdings war mir die Umsetzung ein bisschen zu langwierig und zäh. Die Geschichte rund um Rebecca und Quentin hat mir persönlich mehr Spaß gemacht zu verfolgen. Das Setting war wirklich schön beschrieben. Der christliche Aspekt war dezent in die Geschichte miteingewoben. Insgesamt eine nette Geschichte, allerdings kein Buch das man, meiner Meinung nach, gelesen haben muss:)
October 3, 2018
While it never actually mentions heaving bosoms, praise be, there are a few too many "broad shoulders" and "firm holds" to suit my tastes. It is a Christian book as well as a romance, and the combination is just...weird. (If you like either of those genres separately, it may be right up your alley.) What I did like was the historical fiction segment, as told in 150 year old letters, where a young woman starts up a school for children with special needs. She is inspired by her nephew with fragile x syndrome. The scenes at the Escott Manor school are my favorite, and I respected her portrayal of the children as real characters and not literary devices (which can sometimes be the case, there just to show a unique insight or perspective). They had foibles and attachments, the same as any of the characters in the novel, and in some cases were more dimensional.
January 11, 2025
The story of this book was around special-needs children in both the nineteenth century and current day. Often disregarded, institutionalized or mistreated in centuries past, it was in this case, lovely to see people who felt compelled by God to make their welfare a lifelong ministry.
Both storylines also included a clean romance and genuine faith arc.
Except for the length of this book it was very good.
Both storylines also included a clean romance and genuine faith arc.
Except for the length of this book it was very good.
March 15, 2019
Excellent series. Did not know about this genetic disability. Very interesting to hear how disabled children were cared for during this time period. Enjoyed the dual time line of both books in the series.
May 3, 2020
Life has both ups and downs.
We are all created the same, yet each uniquely different. Love, hate, anger, forgiveness is within all of us. In this book along with THE OAK LEAVES, you will see the differences and the uniqueness we all have within us.
We are all created the same, yet each uniquely different. Love, hate, anger, forgiveness is within all of us. In this book along with THE OAK LEAVES, you will see the differences and the uniqueness we all have within us.
April 27, 2022
A novel with two different time periods, but with sound Biblical doctrine and applied scripture throughout both eras. Love and having a true servant's heart, and faith in God and His Word are some of the beautifully displayed aspects of the Christian life.
May 8, 2018
I enjoyed this book even more than Maureen Lang's first book. As an educator, I was especially interested in her description of early efforts to educate children and adults with special needs.
Read
October 13, 2019The
November 5, 2020
Better than first book in series.
November 30, 2007
Reviewed by Lacy J. Williams - originally posted at www.armchairinterviews.com .
Some readers might think reading two time periods at once would be confusing, but Lang handles these interwoven stories with finesse.
While overseeing his historic family manor, commercial manager Rebecca Seabrooke struggles with a secret crush on her boss, aristocrat Quentin Hollinworth. Rebecca is thrown into a tailspin of emotions when they share a kiss. She knows Quentin’s mother will never accept someone of Rebecca’s social status in a relationship with her son. But every time she tries to talk to Quentin, her arguments are forgotten in the magic of being with him.
Then Quentin’s distant cousin Dana comes all the way from America for a visit, and Rebecca welcomes the distraction. Surprising news disrupts both Rebecca and Dana’s lives. Can they trust that God is in control? Will they find comfort in the letters from Quentin’s ancestor, Berrie Hamilton?
Victorian Ireland wasn’t especially open to women in positions of leadership. Berrie finds this out as she takes steps to become headmistress of the school for mentally handicapped children that her sister-in-law Cosima dreamed of.
When a dashing Irishman arrives on the school’s doorstep to take charge of his sister, his temper ignites Berrie’s ire. Until she realizes that they share a mutual attraction. But God wants her to run the school…doesn’t He?
In this sequel to The Oak Leaves, Lang draws readers into two distinct and thrilling settings. And does a bang-up job of it. The dialogue, secondary characters, and surroundings are so well-written that the reader will swear they’ve been transported to contemporary England or nineteenth-century Ireland.
There’s a lot more to love in this book, with its unlikely love matches in both centuries. Lang gives both lead females a strong, unique voice, as well as problems to face that touch on their personal insecurities.
And the romance–Lang’s scenes are definitely clean, but you will be entranced with the attraction, tension, and dialogue between the main characters. If you love romance, you won’t be able to put this book down.
Armchair Interviews says: Highly recommended.
Some readers might think reading two time periods at once would be confusing, but Lang handles these interwoven stories with finesse.
While overseeing his historic family manor, commercial manager Rebecca Seabrooke struggles with a secret crush on her boss, aristocrat Quentin Hollinworth. Rebecca is thrown into a tailspin of emotions when they share a kiss. She knows Quentin’s mother will never accept someone of Rebecca’s social status in a relationship with her son. But every time she tries to talk to Quentin, her arguments are forgotten in the magic of being with him.
Then Quentin’s distant cousin Dana comes all the way from America for a visit, and Rebecca welcomes the distraction. Surprising news disrupts both Rebecca and Dana’s lives. Can they trust that God is in control? Will they find comfort in the letters from Quentin’s ancestor, Berrie Hamilton?
Victorian Ireland wasn’t especially open to women in positions of leadership. Berrie finds this out as she takes steps to become headmistress of the school for mentally handicapped children that her sister-in-law Cosima dreamed of.
When a dashing Irishman arrives on the school’s doorstep to take charge of his sister, his temper ignites Berrie’s ire. Until she realizes that they share a mutual attraction. But God wants her to run the school…doesn’t He?
In this sequel to The Oak Leaves, Lang draws readers into two distinct and thrilling settings. And does a bang-up job of it. The dialogue, secondary characters, and surroundings are so well-written that the reader will swear they’ve been transported to contemporary England or nineteenth-century Ireland.
There’s a lot more to love in this book, with its unlikely love matches in both centuries. Lang gives both lead females a strong, unique voice, as well as problems to face that touch on their personal insecurities.
And the romance–Lang’s scenes are definitely clean, but you will be entranced with the attraction, tension, and dialogue between the main characters. If you love romance, you won’t be able to put this book down.
Armchair Interviews says: Highly recommended.
March 29, 2010
I love the unique and complex subject matter that Mareen Lang has chosen to write about in her book On Sparrow Hill. She and I have something in common--a special needs child. While my daughter's issues are different, I understand the challenges her characters face, as well as their loved ones.
Lang has combined a contemporary story with the discovery of a beautiful historical woven into one book. As a reader who loves to read and write historicals and does genealogy research, I thought this book was wonderful.
Rebecca Seabrooke and Quentin Hollinworth research his family history on his English estate and discover a historical school that his ancestor Berrie Hamilton started in the mid-1800's. This isn't just any school. It's a school for children that has special needs and certain disabilities. This shows a wonderful contrast between how people viewed these issues back then and how they view them today. Lang managed to layer in a realistic romance between Rebecca Quentin in the present day, and a historical romance between Berrie and the overprotective brother of one of her students.
On Sparrow Hill portrays a 3-dimensional plotline that interweaves two different centuries with human issues that cross all time barriers and show a growing faith and love that conquers all things.
Backcover Description
As the curator for Quentin Hollinworth's family estate, Rebecca Seabrooke is focused on just two things: making hers the most successful historic home in the country and forgetting the childhood crush she's had on Quentin since her father worked as his family's valet. After all, they don't exactly run in the same social circles.
But when she and Quentin uncover letters in the family valut written over 150 years ago by Berrie Hamilton--one of Quentin's ancestors--Rebecca discovers that Quentin isn't the only one with a legacy to appreciate. Only Berrie's words can prepare Rebecca for the dramatic turn her life is about to take.
Lang has combined a contemporary story with the discovery of a beautiful historical woven into one book. As a reader who loves to read and write historicals and does genealogy research, I thought this book was wonderful.
Rebecca Seabrooke and Quentin Hollinworth research his family history on his English estate and discover a historical school that his ancestor Berrie Hamilton started in the mid-1800's. This isn't just any school. It's a school for children that has special needs and certain disabilities. This shows a wonderful contrast between how people viewed these issues back then and how they view them today. Lang managed to layer in a realistic romance between Rebecca Quentin in the present day, and a historical romance between Berrie and the overprotective brother of one of her students.
On Sparrow Hill portrays a 3-dimensional plotline that interweaves two different centuries with human issues that cross all time barriers and show a growing faith and love that conquers all things.
Backcover Description
As the curator for Quentin Hollinworth's family estate, Rebecca Seabrooke is focused on just two things: making hers the most successful historic home in the country and forgetting the childhood crush she's had on Quentin since her father worked as his family's valet. After all, they don't exactly run in the same social circles.
But when she and Quentin uncover letters in the family valut written over 150 years ago by Berrie Hamilton--one of Quentin's ancestors--Rebecca discovers that Quentin isn't the only one with a legacy to appreciate. Only Berrie's words can prepare Rebecca for the dramatic turn her life is about to take.
April 30, 2013
I stayed up past my bedtime on this one!
Thanks, Maureen!
Historical and contemporary plots played out simultaneously; ramifications of the historical impacting the contemporary 160 yrs later.
At some points the one story seemed and interruption to the other, but the further into the situations I became engrossed the more I wanted to discover the next installment of the other. Differences in laws and definitions that had once been acceptable and now decidedly offensive; opportunities for women and the pioneering that has paved our own way; all dealt with in creative and intriguing ways.
The characters were well drawn and authentic - frustrating and fanciful as women can be - all developed maturity by the book's satisfying conclusion. Colourful relational interactions I could well picture! Plenty of savoury to balance the sweet. Then, a few spicy twists thrown in to keep me riveted to reading through the wee hours.
A storyline that could have easily deteriorated into heaviness, Ms Lang creatively discussed this unusual topic, bringing it to light and into the light for readers today.
Review posted for Tyndale Rewards = FREE Books/Audios Click link to receive yours!
Thanks, Maureen!
Historical and contemporary plots played out simultaneously; ramifications of the historical impacting the contemporary 160 yrs later.
At some points the one story seemed and interruption to the other, but the further into the situations I became engrossed the more I wanted to discover the next installment of the other. Differences in laws and definitions that had once been acceptable and now decidedly offensive; opportunities for women and the pioneering that has paved our own way; all dealt with in creative and intriguing ways.
The characters were well drawn and authentic - frustrating and fanciful as women can be - all developed maturity by the book's satisfying conclusion. Colourful relational interactions I could well picture! Plenty of savoury to balance the sweet. Then, a few spicy twists thrown in to keep me riveted to reading through the wee hours.
A storyline that could have easily deteriorated into heaviness, Ms Lang creatively discussed this unusual topic, bringing it to light and into the light for readers today.
Review posted for Tyndale Rewards = FREE Books/Audios Click link to receive yours!
August 10, 2013
When I downloaded this ebook to my Nook, it was free from BN.com. I appreciate the opportunity to read a new-to-me author.
I liked how two love stories are told by this author. Rebecca Seabrooke is attracted to her employer Quentin. When she finally admits Quentin likes her too, she can still justify her reasons why this relationship will not work. The story of Berrie and Simon McFarland is told as Rebecca transcribes historical letters. I like the way Lang introduces the Christian elements into the stories for it comes as part of the characters. I did not feel this author was preaching to her readers instead of developing her characters as happens in too much mediocre Christian fiction. Lang may have written the supporting character Dana a bit too shrill when the topic was fragile x.
I recommend this book for all readers of romance.
I liked how two love stories are told by this author. Rebecca Seabrooke is attracted to her employer Quentin. When she finally admits Quentin likes her too, she can still justify her reasons why this relationship will not work. The story of Berrie and Simon McFarland is told as Rebecca transcribes historical letters. I like the way Lang introduces the Christian elements into the stories for it comes as part of the characters. I did not feel this author was preaching to her readers instead of developing her characters as happens in too much mediocre Christian fiction. Lang may have written the supporting character Dana a bit too shrill when the topic was fragile x.
I recommend this book for all readers of romance.
June 11, 2012
Maureen Lang is such a good storyteller, whether dealing with more serious subjects or writing a straight romance. On Sparrow Hill has two timelines. At first I wasn't sure I was going to like this, but I should have trusted her storytelling abilities. I was quickly caught up in both heroines' stories. Lang's use of language is so good: the Victorian era heroine sounded old-fashioned and formal enough; and the modern day heroine sounded properly British. Two great heroes to complement these heroines, each one quite different from the other, as were the heroines. The book deals with a serious subject, Fragile X, but this doesn't make the book depressing read. It's uplifting because of its strong spiritual message.
January 23, 2012
On Sparrow Hill by Maureen Lang is an intriguing book. At first I was frustrated that the story kept going between the different times, but once I got used to every chapter flipping from current to history and back I was able to enjoy the flow. I enjoyed the characters. I will read this book again.
February 16, 2013
Great story. Interesting characters, a bit of a mystery, some romance, realistic conflict and reactions. My favorite quote came in the last chapter. "God has already given us the strength we need, we just have to get rid of all the layers of doubt covering it up. That's what tests do." I guess I needed that.
March 17, 2008
I really enjoyed this book, the way that Maureen Lang weaved a story out of the present day and the past using old letters was very interesting and the first time I had read anything like that and it was a very good story.
November 21, 2011
This book like the first one The Oak leaves is very good, it gives an idea of what it is like for a person to have this disease fragile x. How hard it is to face our worst fears and how God can see us through it not matter what the circumstances are. I highly recommend reading this book.
December 4, 2011
Part 2 of The Oak Leaves series where we learn what's happened since Cosima moves to America and Berrie starts her school. We, also, learn about what happens with Dana and Talie when they meet their English cousin.
December 19, 2011
I liked this one even more than the first one! Thank you for the second that tied the ends of the story together. I love the story from the past even more than the one from the present in some ways even though it was more choppy and left some questions. Good books!
February 12, 2016
This was a good book. Though, for some reason, it took me forever to finish. I like what she said about surrendering, how everything is in God's capable hands. I liked that. Good book, really liked Quentin too. ;)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews