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Joy
What does joy mean to you?
In this anthology, more than thirty Christian writers tackle this question in poems, allegories, and short stories. Is joy a feeling? A state of the heart? A person? Can it coexist with heartache? Can it be found in a new baby? In having the best possessions money can buy? In finding the right relationships?
Come with us and get to know a wide array of characters who encounter joy in their lives and learn to find it in unexpected places. What lessons might we learn from a packet of sunflower seeds? Can an unloved, lost dog find a home? Is there any joy in the loss of a loved one? Does it shine in the midst of a war? Can an overworked family on vacation locate joy in daily life? Can an unappreciated relative discover a place to belong? Can a crippled girl be seen as more than a pair of crutches?
More than anything, however, this collection recognizes the real source of joy that can be found on earth: in our Lord and Savior Jesus and in His mercies to those He loves. Join us on this exploration--and perhaps you’ll discover a deeper and richer reality of joy in your own journey.
In this anthology, more than thirty Christian writers tackle this question in poems, allegories, and short stories. Is joy a feeling? A state of the heart? A person? Can it coexist with heartache? Can it be found in a new baby? In having the best possessions money can buy? In finding the right relationships?
Come with us and get to know a wide array of characters who encounter joy in their lives and learn to find it in unexpected places. What lessons might we learn from a packet of sunflower seeds? Can an unloved, lost dog find a home? Is there any joy in the loss of a loved one? Does it shine in the midst of a war? Can an overworked family on vacation locate joy in daily life? Can an unappreciated relative discover a place to belong? Can a crippled girl be seen as more than a pair of crutches?
More than anything, however, this collection recognizes the real source of joy that can be found on earth: in our Lord and Savior Jesus and in His mercies to those He loves. Join us on this exploration--and perhaps you’ll discover a deeper and richer reality of joy in your own journey.
399 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2023
1 person is currently reading
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
October 14, 2025
What is Joy?
by Jae Fisher
4 stars. A good, truthful little poem about the crux of what Joy is.
It is not happiness.
It is not in worldly things.
But...
It is in the manger.
It is behind the cross.
It is beyond the stoned tomb.
The Little Sunflower by Katja H. Labonté
This story began last autumn, when I was taking a walk and noticed a bunch of sunflowers behind a fence. All of them were downcast, except one. It impacted me so much I took a picture and wrote a short social media post… and when the Joy collection signups were announced, I knew I had to write about my little sunflower. I wrote the story in the style of Parables from Nature, one of my childhood favourite books. It’s a very simple little tale, but it spoke to me and I hope it speaks to you, too.
Keep on choosing joy, warrior. <3
Fullness of Joy by Rhys-Marie Whitnell
4 stars. I love the focus on Psalm 16:11—such a great theme verse! This was a nice little fantasy short story, and I would have liked to know more about the characters.
Joy Comes in the Mourning by MillyJoy Peterson
3 stars. A simple, sweet little story with a good message. Also, I love that title. ;)
“What if... He was real? What if I could really receive amazing grace?”
Just Joy by Rebekah A. Morris
5 stars. Oh, I love this story! It’s so very, very Pansy-ish. And the theme verse of ‘I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation,’ paired with “Joy Unspeakable”… it’s perfect. <3
He Sees Me by Erika Mathews
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). One of my very favourites here. I love how simple this is, so focussed on that powerful, powerful message: “your joy no man taketh from you,” with all of its beautiful branches. <3
Unorganized Joy by Bree Pembrook
5 stars. This was a very original story, quite different from the others here, focusing on the joy of being with family and doing the fun things you love… It’s a really great message, and I really liked Aella & Cosima + the delightful humour sprinkled through this!
Joy by Melissa Merritt
4 stars. Another lovely little poem focussing on how “joy cometh in the morning”!
We face doubts and trials,
We sorrow for a night,
But in the morning sunrise
We’ll see His glorious light.
Nobody Ever Observes by Bethany Willcock
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). My other favourite story in this collection! I adore the adventures of Vincent Woodthorn & his sisters, Cathryn & Helene Lloyd. Bethany Willcock did a fantastic job keeping the serious themes of this story lightened with excellent humour, and the ending is so so sweet and perfect fitting the theme perfectly! And all the Sherlockian feels & nods—ah!! I love this so much!!!
“Listen—joy has been returned to this house.”
Seeking Joy by Tiffany Michele
5 stars. This is so short, but so good and so beautiful. I cried. <3
It had taken twenty-eight years to find the man of her dreams. It had taken another six to finally get pregnant. She’d craved motherhood for so-so long . . . And yet what had she just been filled with instead of awe and joy?
Stress and anger.
Joy in the Morning by Angie Thompson
5 stars. Never take Angie Thompson for granted, because you never know what she’ll write next. This story was very different from her usual genre—a sort of contemporary dystopian set in a war-torn world. It tugged at the heartstrings… I loved the MC, I loved little Joy, and Connell broke my heart… The message here was so good. It was an unusual story, but I loved it.
[S]he set her cup of half-wilted, common, but still somehow beautiful flowers on the floor next to the bed[.]
Lilly Pearl’s Joy by Zoe Jean
4.5 stars. I cried again. Couldn’t help it. The message is so beautiful. <3
“The Sun comes up. Night flees. Why fear when chaos and madness turn into peace and stillness?”
Everlasting Joy by Jessica Joy
4.5 stars. Oh my heart, this little allegory brought even more tears to my eyes. What a lovely, lovely little story with such a powerful message!
“Depression, Misery, Deception, Fleeting Happiness,” [T]heir attention turned to Grace—standing in the door, a great sword in his hand.
“Leave” he said with such authority that they ... disappeared with screams of anger.
Hope and Peace entered behind him[.]
“You’re back,” [Joy] whispered[.]
“Of course we are,” Hope said. “It just took time.”
A Dog’s Journey by Elisabeth Joy
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). I couldn’t believe my eyes as I read this. IT. IS. SO. GOOD. It reminded me so, so much of Lassie , with a contemporary setting instead! I was hooked, I smiled so big at the end, and I eagerly clamour for a whole novel about Lady!!
And if the dog skimming the grass as she races off isn’t a picture of joy, if the boy’s eyes don’t shine as he watches her, if they both aren’t grinning as they plop down in the cool dirt under the shade of a mighty oak... well, then the world we live in is a very sad world indeed.
Mourning to Dancing by Ria Martin
3 stars. A simple little story, but with a good message. Again, I love the theme verses scattered through this collection! “Thou hast turned for me my mourning to dancing”—what a great pick!
The Flower Girl by Jewel Windall
4.5 stars. Such a cute little story—it reminded me so much of Pollyanna ! What a great ending. <3
“I don’t know, but I don’t control the world. I didn’t make it either. God did, and since He’s the one who knows all about it, we must trust Him.”
Puddles of Joy by Hannah Foster
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). Yes, yes, yes! I love the message here SO much. I needed it!! Holly & Silas are awesome and Frannie is an ICON, and I need more of this story ASAP!
“Well, you say snow turns into puddles, but I’ve seen a mighty lot of puddles bring joy.”
The Little Things by Olivia Godfrey
4.5 stars (5/10 hearts). Okay, I’m not a fan of blank verse usually but this is a really cute poem with an adorable spin on the “joy of the Lord is our strength” theme. <3
The joy of the Lord is our strength.
He knows what we need;
He gives us these “little things.”
The Happy Lesson by Kayla James
4 stars. I really enjoyed this story! It reminded me of some of Rebekah Morris’s Christmas stories, maybe specifically The Christmas She Wanted ? Anyways, I enjoyed watching the character arcs for Rick and his family, and the message.
“Just take it a step at a time and keep finding the joy in each one. Teach others to be blessed.”
The Fire in the Cold by E.N. Leonard
4 stars. Like I said, I’m not a fan of blank verse, and I found this poem a bit confusing at times. Sometime when I read it slowly and study it, I think I’ll like it better. I really appreciated some of the imagery and the message though.
When my home is here, flying in the shadow of His wings,
Singing in freest ways. He is the warmth I can’t contain
Bursting from my icy frame: He takes what made me cold,
Makes it whole and beautiful. Delicate, and yet I fly
Because He’s here, and these wings aren’t mine.
Her Parents’ Legacy by Lauren Compton
5 stars. Oh, I was delighted to see a little prequel for Jayne’s Endeavour !! I was thrilled to get to know Jayne’s parents and their arcs and characters. The message here is epic, and once again I can’t wait for the sequels to JE. :)
“Yet sometimes, isn’t it true that trials are the biggest blessings, for it’s in them that people hear God’s voice the best. See His light more clearly.”
Joy Comes With Sally by Hannah Gridley
4 stars. The “joy” theme is a little more understated here, but it’s adorable and I love it! Hannah Gridley needs to write and published more slice-of-life contemporary stories. <3
“I suppose you’re a bit earlier than expected, but God knew the most perfect moment of all for you to come.”
I Am With You by Autumn Joy
4.5 stars. Oo, I really enjoyed this one! Goat stories are always fun—and I really liked Leise and Coleston’s story arcs... and Amelia is so so sweet… and the messages here are just splendid!!
And somehow he knew that because God was I AM he could trust Him completely, with himself, with Leise, and with the story of their broken lives.
Joyful Birthday by Autumn Nicole
4.5 stars. Okay, this is just absolutely adorable. Totally slice-of-life, no big themes or messages or anything, just pure sweetness and love and happiness. I love it!
Tearful Sowing, Joyful Reaping by Bethany M. Griggs
5 stars. So yeah, I cried a lot with this collection. This one had me tearing up too. I found Caylee and her struggles very relatable… and the message was a balm on my heart. Also, I love stories about chronic illness warriors. <3
Thank You for the reaping and the joy. And thank You for the tears that were part of the process.
Keys to Joy by Hannah E. Griggs
4 stars. Okay, I also enjoy stories about musicians! I needed the reminder about where we find real joy—how success doesn’t grant it.
“I thought when I reached the top, I’d be happy. I poured all my energy into getting here, thinking I would find happiness. But I’m not a bit happier than I used to be. If anything, I’m more miserable. Everyone expects me to be happy, and I have to put on an act.”
In the Midst by Lucy Peterson & Alaina Johnson
4.5 stars. I’m a sucker for WWII fiction, as we all know. I related to Maggie and her emotional struggles, and I loved her lessons about responsibility and duty and realizing how everyone else is suffering too. (I need that periodically.) I loved the family, and the theme fit quite well into the story…
Christ had overcome the world. He had overcome every bombing, every broken child, every ounce of evil in the Nazi’s hearts.
THIS was joy. Even in the midst of trial, THIS prevailed.
Joy Like a River by Ariana Steigerwald
4.5 stars. Love me some pro-life stories!! This one reminded me of To Save a Life, which of course deepened my enjoyment. I also really love how the theme and the title and THE BABY’S NAME were woven together and tied to the story…
This was the most amazing thing of all. Nothing was right, and yet she felt enough joy to float to the moon. Her heart was unburdened, and she was free.
But Joy Cometh in the Morning by Amelia Cabot
4 stars. I didn’t expect so many poems in here! Again, another sweet little poem with some great words of encouragement.
Maybe you think that joy is gone.
Maybe you feel your hope has fled.
Just keep anticipating dawn.
In His Presence by Sophia E. Davis
5 stars. Oh wow, I didn’t expect to love this so much. It’s such a very simple story! Yet it holds so much love and faith… it’s just beautiful. It made me cry.
“That’s not what you worked for…. If something were to happen to the house, and you had to do a lot of repair or,” he hesitated, “if it was destroyed, that’s not what you worked for. You and Dad worked for so much more that can’t be messed up by a hurricane.”
Choosing Joy by A.Y. Daniels & Maggie E. Holland
4 stars. I enjoyed this story and getting to know Mallory + Abigail and their struggles & character arcs. Grandma & Grandpa have so much love and wisdom, and the messages are very good.
“Remember that you’re in trouble if you only pray when you’re in trouble.”
4 stars. A good, truthful little poem about the crux of what Joy is.
It is not happiness.
It is not in worldly things.
But...
It is in the manger.
It is behind the cross.
It is beyond the stoned tomb.
The Little Sunflower by Katja H. Labonté
This story began last autumn, when I was taking a walk and noticed a bunch of sunflowers behind a fence. All of them were downcast, except one. It impacted me so much I took a picture and wrote a short social media post… and when the Joy collection signups were announced, I knew I had to write about my little sunflower. I wrote the story in the style of Parables from Nature, one of my childhood favourite books. It’s a very simple little tale, but it spoke to me and I hope it speaks to you, too.
Keep on choosing joy, warrior. <3
Fullness of Joy by Rhys-Marie Whitnell
4 stars. I love the focus on Psalm 16:11—such a great theme verse! This was a nice little fantasy short story, and I would have liked to know more about the characters.
Joy Comes in the Mourning by MillyJoy Peterson
3 stars. A simple, sweet little story with a good message. Also, I love that title. ;)
“What if... He was real? What if I could really receive amazing grace?”
Just Joy by Rebekah A. Morris
5 stars. Oh, I love this story! It’s so very, very Pansy-ish. And the theme verse of ‘I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation,’ paired with “Joy Unspeakable”… it’s perfect. <3
He Sees Me by Erika Mathews
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). One of my very favourites here. I love how simple this is, so focussed on that powerful, powerful message: “your joy no man taketh from you,” with all of its beautiful branches. <3
Unorganized Joy by Bree Pembrook
5 stars. This was a very original story, quite different from the others here, focusing on the joy of being with family and doing the fun things you love… It’s a really great message, and I really liked Aella & Cosima + the delightful humour sprinkled through this!
Joy by Melissa Merritt
4 stars. Another lovely little poem focussing on how “joy cometh in the morning”!
We face doubts and trials,
We sorrow for a night,
But in the morning sunrise
We’ll see His glorious light.
Nobody Ever Observes by Bethany Willcock
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). My other favourite story in this collection! I adore the adventures of Vincent Woodthorn & his sisters, Cathryn & Helene Lloyd. Bethany Willcock did a fantastic job keeping the serious themes of this story lightened with excellent humour, and the ending is so so sweet and perfect fitting the theme perfectly! And all the Sherlockian feels & nods—ah!! I love this so much!!!
“Listen—joy has been returned to this house.”
Seeking Joy by Tiffany Michele
5 stars. This is so short, but so good and so beautiful. I cried. <3
It had taken twenty-eight years to find the man of her dreams. It had taken another six to finally get pregnant. She’d craved motherhood for so-so long . . . And yet what had she just been filled with instead of awe and joy?
Stress and anger.
Joy in the Morning by Angie Thompson
5 stars. Never take Angie Thompson for granted, because you never know what she’ll write next. This story was very different from her usual genre—a sort of contemporary dystopian set in a war-torn world. It tugged at the heartstrings… I loved the MC, I loved little Joy, and Connell broke my heart… The message here was so good. It was an unusual story, but I loved it.
[S]he set her cup of half-wilted, common, but still somehow beautiful flowers on the floor next to the bed[.]
Lilly Pearl’s Joy by Zoe Jean
4.5 stars. I cried again. Couldn’t help it. The message is so beautiful. <3
“The Sun comes up. Night flees. Why fear when chaos and madness turn into peace and stillness?”
Everlasting Joy by Jessica Joy
4.5 stars. Oh my heart, this little allegory brought even more tears to my eyes. What a lovely, lovely little story with such a powerful message!
“Depression, Misery, Deception, Fleeting Happiness,” [T]heir attention turned to Grace—standing in the door, a great sword in his hand.
“Leave” he said with such authority that they ... disappeared with screams of anger.
Hope and Peace entered behind him[.]
“You’re back,” [Joy] whispered[.]
“Of course we are,” Hope said. “It just took time.”
A Dog’s Journey by Elisabeth Joy
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). I couldn’t believe my eyes as I read this. IT. IS. SO. GOOD. It reminded me so, so much of Lassie , with a contemporary setting instead! I was hooked, I smiled so big at the end, and I eagerly clamour for a whole novel about Lady!!
And if the dog skimming the grass as she races off isn’t a picture of joy, if the boy’s eyes don’t shine as he watches her, if they both aren’t grinning as they plop down in the cool dirt under the shade of a mighty oak... well, then the world we live in is a very sad world indeed.
Mourning to Dancing by Ria Martin
3 stars. A simple little story, but with a good message. Again, I love the theme verses scattered through this collection! “Thou hast turned for me my mourning to dancing”—what a great pick!
The Flower Girl by Jewel Windall
4.5 stars. Such a cute little story—it reminded me so much of Pollyanna ! What a great ending. <3
“I don’t know, but I don’t control the world. I didn’t make it either. God did, and since He’s the one who knows all about it, we must trust Him.”
Puddles of Joy by Hannah Foster
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). Yes, yes, yes! I love the message here SO much. I needed it!! Holly & Silas are awesome and Frannie is an ICON, and I need more of this story ASAP!
“Well, you say snow turns into puddles, but I’ve seen a mighty lot of puddles bring joy.”
The Little Things by Olivia Godfrey
4.5 stars (5/10 hearts). Okay, I’m not a fan of blank verse usually but this is a really cute poem with an adorable spin on the “joy of the Lord is our strength” theme. <3
The joy of the Lord is our strength.
He knows what we need;
He gives us these “little things.”
The Happy Lesson by Kayla James
4 stars. I really enjoyed this story! It reminded me of some of Rebekah Morris’s Christmas stories, maybe specifically The Christmas She Wanted ? Anyways, I enjoyed watching the character arcs for Rick and his family, and the message.
“Just take it a step at a time and keep finding the joy in each one. Teach others to be blessed.”
The Fire in the Cold by E.N. Leonard
4 stars. Like I said, I’m not a fan of blank verse, and I found this poem a bit confusing at times. Sometime when I read it slowly and study it, I think I’ll like it better. I really appreciated some of the imagery and the message though.
When my home is here, flying in the shadow of His wings,
Singing in freest ways. He is the warmth I can’t contain
Bursting from my icy frame: He takes what made me cold,
Makes it whole and beautiful. Delicate, and yet I fly
Because He’s here, and these wings aren’t mine.
Her Parents’ Legacy by Lauren Compton
5 stars. Oh, I was delighted to see a little prequel for Jayne’s Endeavour !! I was thrilled to get to know Jayne’s parents and their arcs and characters. The message here is epic, and once again I can’t wait for the sequels to JE. :)
“Yet sometimes, isn’t it true that trials are the biggest blessings, for it’s in them that people hear God’s voice the best. See His light more clearly.”
Joy Comes With Sally by Hannah Gridley
4 stars. The “joy” theme is a little more understated here, but it’s adorable and I love it! Hannah Gridley needs to write and published more slice-of-life contemporary stories. <3
“I suppose you’re a bit earlier than expected, but God knew the most perfect moment of all for you to come.”
I Am With You by Autumn Joy
4.5 stars. Oo, I really enjoyed this one! Goat stories are always fun—and I really liked Leise and Coleston’s story arcs... and Amelia is so so sweet… and the messages here are just splendid!!
And somehow he knew that because God was I AM he could trust Him completely, with himself, with Leise, and with the story of their broken lives.
Joyful Birthday by Autumn Nicole
4.5 stars. Okay, this is just absolutely adorable. Totally slice-of-life, no big themes or messages or anything, just pure sweetness and love and happiness. I love it!
Tearful Sowing, Joyful Reaping by Bethany M. Griggs
5 stars. So yeah, I cried a lot with this collection. This one had me tearing up too. I found Caylee and her struggles very relatable… and the message was a balm on my heart. Also, I love stories about chronic illness warriors. <3
Thank You for the reaping and the joy. And thank You for the tears that were part of the process.
Keys to Joy by Hannah E. Griggs
4 stars. Okay, I also enjoy stories about musicians! I needed the reminder about where we find real joy—how success doesn’t grant it.
“I thought when I reached the top, I’d be happy. I poured all my energy into getting here, thinking I would find happiness. But I’m not a bit happier than I used to be. If anything, I’m more miserable. Everyone expects me to be happy, and I have to put on an act.”
In the Midst by Lucy Peterson & Alaina Johnson
4.5 stars. I’m a sucker for WWII fiction, as we all know. I related to Maggie and her emotional struggles, and I loved her lessons about responsibility and duty and realizing how everyone else is suffering too. (I need that periodically.) I loved the family, and the theme fit quite well into the story…
Christ had overcome the world. He had overcome every bombing, every broken child, every ounce of evil in the Nazi’s hearts.
THIS was joy. Even in the midst of trial, THIS prevailed.
Joy Like a River by Ariana Steigerwald
4.5 stars. Love me some pro-life stories!! This one reminded me of To Save a Life, which of course deepened my enjoyment. I also really love how the theme and the title and THE BABY’S NAME were woven together and tied to the story…
This was the most amazing thing of all. Nothing was right, and yet she felt enough joy to float to the moon. Her heart was unburdened, and she was free.
But Joy Cometh in the Morning by Amelia Cabot
4 stars. I didn’t expect so many poems in here! Again, another sweet little poem with some great words of encouragement.
Maybe you think that joy is gone.
Maybe you feel your hope has fled.
Just keep anticipating dawn.
In His Presence by Sophia E. Davis
5 stars. Oh wow, I didn’t expect to love this so much. It’s such a very simple story! Yet it holds so much love and faith… it’s just beautiful. It made me cry.
“That’s not what you worked for…. If something were to happen to the house, and you had to do a lot of repair or,” he hesitated, “if it was destroyed, that’s not what you worked for. You and Dad worked for so much more that can’t be messed up by a hurricane.”
Choosing Joy by A.Y. Daniels & Maggie E. Holland
4 stars. I enjoyed this story and getting to know Mallory + Abigail and their struggles & character arcs. Grandma & Grandpa have so much love and wisdom, and the messages are very good.
“Remember that you’re in trouble if you only pray when you’re in trouble.”
August 4, 2024
The longest KDWC collection to date, this features over thirty short stories, all providing a message and theme of joy. I enjoyed seeing all the different ways the stories matched the theme, and there were so many good stories in here!
What is Joy by Jae Fisher: 3.5 stars
The Little Sunflower by Katja H. Labonté: 5+ stars. I... don't have words. How I wish there really was a 5+ stars option, or 10 stars. Oh... This little story... I don't even know what to say. It's one of the most beautiful little things I've ever read. Sort of an allegory, or an illustration... But such a very very beautiful one. A story told from the perspective of a little sunflower seed that in her own opinion is defective. A story about the bravery of standing alone and the effects joy can have. A story told in a style reminiscent of a Victorian Christian children's story with delightful imagery and a theme so absolutely beautiful. I cried through most of it... But laughed, too, at how sweet and delightful it was. It just wasn't fair to (practically) start the collection off with this one... It set way too high of a standard for the rest! XD Seriously, this is one of my favourite stories now.
Fullness of Joy by Rhys-Marie Whitnell: 4 stars. From what I could make out, this was a kingdom fiction (perhaps historical?), but real-world and no fantasy elements, which I was glad of. I only thing I didn't like was how they had another name for the Bible (the Creed). But anyway, I enjoyed this story! I liked the writing, and I just wished it had carried on longer. I would love to read an expanded version.
Joy Comes in the Mourning by MillyJoy Peterson: 3 stars. I love the title. This is a very sad story, but I liked the hope-filled ending. Some of the dialogue and emotions didn't feel quite real to me, and the writing style in general wasn't my favourite, but the story was good.
Just Joy by Rebekah A. Morris: 4.5 stars. Aww, I love this gentle, old-fashioned story. The characters were all so real-feeling and I loved Joy so much. And the story was just so sweet.
He Sees Me by Erika Mathews: 4.5 stars. I need an expanded version of this! Right now! It's a short story, and is basically just a single conversation between two characters, but it's filled with so much and it's just so well done. I need more.
Unorganised Joy by Bree Pembrook: 4.75 stars. Okay, this was a fun story that made me smile. I loved both the sisters, and thought the angle was an interesting one, somewhat different to the others. There were positive references to a couple music genres I have issues with, but nothing else. I liked it a lot!
Joy by Melissa Merritt: 3 stars.
Nobody Ever Observes by Bethany Willcock: 5 stars. Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts will love this series and particularly this story. I love watching poor V figure out how to brother XD And the mystery is so Sherlock Holmes-y!!
Seeking Joy by Tiffany Michelle: 4 stars. A very short story, but nicely written and complete - and very sweet. It did contain some details that made me a bit uncomfortable, but nothing bad. I really enjoyed it.
Joy in the Morning by Angie Thompson: 4.5 stars. I was kind of confused about the setting and backstory to all of this, but that didn't stop me enjoying the story. It had a nice double meaning of Joy, too. I definitely need a longer version!
Lilly Pearl's Joy by Zoe Jean: 5 stars. Oh, this story was beautiful. I don't have much to say about it, but I didn't want it to end. It was just so so good...and so well-written and heartwarming.
Everlasting Joy by Jessica Joy: 4.5 stars. This was such a sweet, lovely allegory! So so good.
A Dog's Journey by Elisabeth Joy: 4 stars. Oh, this was SUCH a good continuation! Prequel? Sequel? I don't know, but I didn't realise what it was until the end. XD Sad in parts, but very well written and sweet and it reminded me of The Incredible Journey, while having an unexpected ending that was different to any similar book I've read.
Mourning to Dancing by Ria Martin: 4 stars. I really liked the writing of this one, and the story is so sweet and sad but full of hope and joy. I didn't agree with all the theology, but I was glad that the story didn't involve actual dancing, instead using this verse in its proper meaning! I would love to read an expanded version of this one.
The Flower-Girl by Jewel Windall: 5 stars. This made me think of Pollyanna or Heidi at first, and then it went even deeper than that! This was one of my favorites, I think. Such a sweet, beautiful story. And I love the writing.
Puddles of Joy by Hannah Foster: 4.5 stars. I struggled with the writing style, but I loved the message and the last couple scenes made me laugh. :D I hope to read the full version one day, though this definitely didn't feel like an excerpt or anything!
The Little Things by Olivia Godfrey: 4.25 stars. I'm not a huge fan of this style of poetry and I don't usually review poems, but I really really enjoyed this one. <3
The Happy Lesson by Kayla James: 5 stars. I so enjoyed this. The writing style was lovely, and the story was so good. I would love to read a longer version...or more stories about the characters!
The Fire in the Cold by E.N. Leonard: I really tried, and I read it multiple times, but I'm still...kind of lost lol... No rating for now.
Her Parents' Legacy by Lauren Compton: 5 stars. I may be biased. ;P But seriously, I am SO glad Lauren wrote this story! It needed to exist, and it needed to exist in this collection. ;P It's just soo good and such a perfect prequel to Jayne's Endeavour... Which, by the way, if you haven't read, you need to! I loved the 1850s Irish setting, and I loved seeing a bit of Jayne's parents. <3 This just made me want to go and read Jayne's Endeavour again...
Joy Comes With Sally by Hannah Gridley: 4.5 stars. Aww.. this was so sweet! I didn't want it to end!
I Am With You by Autumn Joy: 4.5 stars. I really loved this. But it can't end there! I feel as if this is or should be an excerpt from something longer... If it is, I NEED that full length story. ;) Loved the characters! And the message was so good.
Joyful Birthday by Autumn Nicole: 4.5 stars. This was such a cute story! There wasn't any particular theme in it other than maybe joy itself, but I loved it for some reason. :D The characters were just so lovely and it was a very happy, cute story.
Tearful Sewing, Joyful Reaping by Bethany M. Griggs: 5 stars. I didn't realise how much I needed this sequel until I started reading it! I absolutely loved the first story, and this was just as good. <3 I teared up a little bit at the end... Also, Jada is a wonderful friend. <3 I so hope this will develop into a series of some kind about these characters!
Keys to Joy by Hannah E. Griggs: 4.75 stars. Firstly, can we just talk about how clever that title is? :D I loved this sweet, simple story pointing to the key to real joy. The characters felt so real and even though it was short, it was so full of truth. Note I don't agree on all points and statements, as with most of these stories, but overall this story held an excellent message.
In the Midst by Lucy Peterson & Alaina Johnson: 4.5 stars. This is such a good sequel... And you can easily read it without having ever read Everything. It follows on, but also stands alone just fine. Another excellent WWII story! I hope there'll be more to this series!
Joy Like a River by Ariana Steigerwald: 5 stars. Oh, wow. This story is about a very serious topic (abortion), but it was very well handled and didn't make me feel uncomfortable, which I really appreciated. It reminded me quite a bit of To Save a Life. This is one of my top favourites in the collection. I would have loved it to go on longer, but on the other hand, the ending is just soo perfect it was just the right place to stop. A sequel might be in order, though. ;) But wow... This is just so good and needs to be read.
But Joy Cometh in the Morning by Amelia Cabot: 3 stars.
In His Presence by Sophia E. Davis: 4 stars. I felt so sorry for poor Rachel! This was a sweet story that matched the theme well. I really enjoyed it.
Choosing Joy by A.Y. Daniels & Maggie E. Holland: 3.75 stars. This was a sweet story. For some reason I couldn't write connect to the writing style, and parts of the story was left unclear. But the storyline was good and the joy theme was strong.
Such a lovely collection! I look forward to seeing more from these authors in the future.
Note: As a member of KDWC I received a free copy of this book. I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What is Joy by Jae Fisher: 3.5 stars
The Little Sunflower by Katja H. Labonté: 5+ stars. I... don't have words. How I wish there really was a 5+ stars option, or 10 stars. Oh... This little story... I don't even know what to say. It's one of the most beautiful little things I've ever read. Sort of an allegory, or an illustration... But such a very very beautiful one. A story told from the perspective of a little sunflower seed that in her own opinion is defective. A story about the bravery of standing alone and the effects joy can have. A story told in a style reminiscent of a Victorian Christian children's story with delightful imagery and a theme so absolutely beautiful. I cried through most of it... But laughed, too, at how sweet and delightful it was. It just wasn't fair to (practically) start the collection off with this one... It set way too high of a standard for the rest! XD Seriously, this is one of my favourite stories now.
Fullness of Joy by Rhys-Marie Whitnell: 4 stars. From what I could make out, this was a kingdom fiction (perhaps historical?), but real-world and no fantasy elements, which I was glad of. I only thing I didn't like was how they had another name for the Bible (the Creed). But anyway, I enjoyed this story! I liked the writing, and I just wished it had carried on longer. I would love to read an expanded version.
Joy Comes in the Mourning by MillyJoy Peterson: 3 stars. I love the title. This is a very sad story, but I liked the hope-filled ending. Some of the dialogue and emotions didn't feel quite real to me, and the writing style in general wasn't my favourite, but the story was good.
Just Joy by Rebekah A. Morris: 4.5 stars. Aww, I love this gentle, old-fashioned story. The characters were all so real-feeling and I loved Joy so much. And the story was just so sweet.
He Sees Me by Erika Mathews: 4.5 stars. I need an expanded version of this! Right now! It's a short story, and is basically just a single conversation between two characters, but it's filled with so much and it's just so well done. I need more.
Unorganised Joy by Bree Pembrook: 4.75 stars. Okay, this was a fun story that made me smile. I loved both the sisters, and thought the angle was an interesting one, somewhat different to the others. There were positive references to a couple music genres I have issues with, but nothing else. I liked it a lot!
Joy by Melissa Merritt: 3 stars.
Nobody Ever Observes by Bethany Willcock: 5 stars. Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts will love this series and particularly this story. I love watching poor V figure out how to brother XD And the mystery is so Sherlock Holmes-y!!
Seeking Joy by Tiffany Michelle: 4 stars. A very short story, but nicely written and complete - and very sweet. It did contain some details that made me a bit uncomfortable, but nothing bad. I really enjoyed it.
Joy in the Morning by Angie Thompson: 4.5 stars. I was kind of confused about the setting and backstory to all of this, but that didn't stop me enjoying the story. It had a nice double meaning of Joy, too. I definitely need a longer version!
Lilly Pearl's Joy by Zoe Jean: 5 stars. Oh, this story was beautiful. I don't have much to say about it, but I didn't want it to end. It was just so so good...and so well-written and heartwarming.
Everlasting Joy by Jessica Joy: 4.5 stars. This was such a sweet, lovely allegory! So so good.
A Dog's Journey by Elisabeth Joy: 4 stars. Oh, this was SUCH a good continuation! Prequel? Sequel? I don't know, but I didn't realise what it was until the end. XD Sad in parts, but very well written and sweet and it reminded me of The Incredible Journey, while having an unexpected ending that was different to any similar book I've read.
Mourning to Dancing by Ria Martin: 4 stars. I really liked the writing of this one, and the story is so sweet and sad but full of hope and joy. I didn't agree with all the theology, but I was glad that the story didn't involve actual dancing, instead using this verse in its proper meaning! I would love to read an expanded version of this one.
The Flower-Girl by Jewel Windall: 5 stars. This made me think of Pollyanna or Heidi at first, and then it went even deeper than that! This was one of my favorites, I think. Such a sweet, beautiful story. And I love the writing.
Puddles of Joy by Hannah Foster: 4.5 stars. I struggled with the writing style, but I loved the message and the last couple scenes made me laugh. :D I hope to read the full version one day, though this definitely didn't feel like an excerpt or anything!
The Little Things by Olivia Godfrey: 4.25 stars. I'm not a huge fan of this style of poetry and I don't usually review poems, but I really really enjoyed this one. <3
The Happy Lesson by Kayla James: 5 stars. I so enjoyed this. The writing style was lovely, and the story was so good. I would love to read a longer version...or more stories about the characters!
The Fire in the Cold by E.N. Leonard: I really tried, and I read it multiple times, but I'm still...kind of lost lol... No rating for now.
Her Parents' Legacy by Lauren Compton: 5 stars. I may be biased. ;P But seriously, I am SO glad Lauren wrote this story! It needed to exist, and it needed to exist in this collection. ;P It's just soo good and such a perfect prequel to Jayne's Endeavour... Which, by the way, if you haven't read, you need to! I loved the 1850s Irish setting, and I loved seeing a bit of Jayne's parents. <3 This just made me want to go and read Jayne's Endeavour again...
Joy Comes With Sally by Hannah Gridley: 4.5 stars. Aww.. this was so sweet! I didn't want it to end!
I Am With You by Autumn Joy: 4.5 stars. I really loved this. But it can't end there! I feel as if this is or should be an excerpt from something longer... If it is, I NEED that full length story. ;) Loved the characters! And the message was so good.
Joyful Birthday by Autumn Nicole: 4.5 stars. This was such a cute story! There wasn't any particular theme in it other than maybe joy itself, but I loved it for some reason. :D The characters were just so lovely and it was a very happy, cute story.
Tearful Sewing, Joyful Reaping by Bethany M. Griggs: 5 stars. I didn't realise how much I needed this sequel until I started reading it! I absolutely loved the first story, and this was just as good. <3 I teared up a little bit at the end... Also, Jada is a wonderful friend. <3 I so hope this will develop into a series of some kind about these characters!
Keys to Joy by Hannah E. Griggs: 4.75 stars. Firstly, can we just talk about how clever that title is? :D I loved this sweet, simple story pointing to the key to real joy. The characters felt so real and even though it was short, it was so full of truth. Note I don't agree on all points and statements, as with most of these stories, but overall this story held an excellent message.
In the Midst by Lucy Peterson & Alaina Johnson: 4.5 stars. This is such a good sequel... And you can easily read it without having ever read Everything. It follows on, but also stands alone just fine. Another excellent WWII story! I hope there'll be more to this series!
Joy Like a River by Ariana Steigerwald: 5 stars. Oh, wow. This story is about a very serious topic (abortion), but it was very well handled and didn't make me feel uncomfortable, which I really appreciated. It reminded me quite a bit of To Save a Life. This is one of my top favourites in the collection. I would have loved it to go on longer, but on the other hand, the ending is just soo perfect it was just the right place to stop. A sequel might be in order, though. ;) But wow... This is just so good and needs to be read.
But Joy Cometh in the Morning by Amelia Cabot: 3 stars.
In His Presence by Sophia E. Davis: 4 stars. I felt so sorry for poor Rachel! This was a sweet story that matched the theme well. I really enjoyed it.
Choosing Joy by A.Y. Daniels & Maggie E. Holland: 3.75 stars. This was a sweet story. For some reason I couldn't write connect to the writing style, and parts of the story was left unclear. But the storyline was good and the joy theme was strong.
Such a lovely collection! I look forward to seeing more from these authors in the future.
Note: As a member of KDWC I received a free copy of this book. I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2023
It took me a long time to get this collection read because I took a really long break in the middle. But I finally finished. So many stories! Some I loved, some I liked, and others weren’t my favorite, but that’s to be expected with a collection of this many stories.
These are my favorite stories.
The Little Sunflower by Katja H. Labronté
Such a good and encouraging message! I actually teared up which doesn’t happen often.
He Sees Me by Erika Mathews
Encouraging and good.
Joy by Melissa Merritt
A short poem
Nobody Ever Observes by Bethany Willcock
A fun story. It made me smile even though parts were sad.
Seeking Joy by Tiffany Michele
A good little story and reminder about finding joy in the difficult yet mundane moments of life.
Puddles of Joy by Hannah Foster
Love this little story! So good! It made me smile. And the full book is even better.
Tearful Sowing, Joyful Reaping by Bethany M. Griggs
This story made me cry, but it was a good cry and the story was encouraging.
Joy Like a River by Ariana Steigerwald
My heart went out to Leslie! This story just made me want to hug Leslie and help her.
There were many others that I liked, but these were my favorites.
These are my favorite stories.
The Little Sunflower by Katja H. Labronté
Such a good and encouraging message! I actually teared up which doesn’t happen often.
He Sees Me by Erika Mathews
Encouraging and good.
Joy by Melissa Merritt
A short poem
Nobody Ever Observes by Bethany Willcock
A fun story. It made me smile even though parts were sad.
Seeking Joy by Tiffany Michele
A good little story and reminder about finding joy in the difficult yet mundane moments of life.
Puddles of Joy by Hannah Foster
Love this little story! So good! It made me smile. And the full book is even better.
Tearful Sowing, Joyful Reaping by Bethany M. Griggs
This story made me cry, but it was a good cry and the story was encouraging.
Joy Like a River by Ariana Steigerwald
My heart went out to Leslie! This story just made me want to hug Leslie and help her.
There were many others that I liked, but these were my favorites.
November 21, 2023
I’m so excited to review this collection! And of course, I’m thrilled it has one of my stories in it. “Fullness of Joy” is a very short historical fantasy story with a strong Christian theme, and it is set in the same world as the story I’m currently plotting.
There were plenty of other good stories in this collection, though–many that, in my opinion, were decidedly better than mine. I won’t dissemble here and say I loved all the stories–some were just okay to me, but of course readers have different preferences and opinions.
These are my favorites in the collection, which I’ll review individually.
“The Little Sunflower” by Katja Labonte: This might be my favorite story in the collection. It’s an allegory about a small, unremarkable sunflower and the influence she has on others, and while the setting is modern, the writing style is delightfully vintage. I felt like I could have been reading something from the Victorian era. And the theme–it is so lovely.
“Just Joy” by Rebekah Morris: This is another story with a Victorian writing style. I liked Joy, an orphan who lives with her aunt, uncle, and cousins, as well as the theme and character growth.
“He Sees Me” by Erika Mathews: While I loved this author’s kingdom fantasy series, I wasn’t sure what I would think of this contemporary story. However, I ended up enjoying it, especially because of the characters and the theme.
“Unorganized Joy” by Bree Pembrook: This was another fun contemporary story. It followed sisters Cosima and Aella, who seem like opposites in everything. I also appreciated the meanings of the character names–I love it when other authors pay as much attention to character naming as I do.
“Nobody Ever Observes” by Bethany Willcock: I’ve never read a Sherlock Holmes mystery, but I do enjoy this author’s series of spin-offs, beginning with a story in the “Everything” collection. The sequel was almost as good, though I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as “Everything”, for reasons I can’t pinpoint.
“The Happy Lesson” by Kayla James: I just love stories where characters get snowed in in uncomfortable places. That trope as well as the character growth are why this story became one of my favorites.
“I Am With You” by Autumn Joy: I really liked the characters of Coleston and Leise in this contemporary story.
“Keys to Joy” by Hannah E. Griggs: Set in modern London, this story follows a musician who finds that even the most amazing earthly things can never satisfy without God. I liked the theme and the fact that this story was set in my favorite large city.
There were plenty of other good stories in this collection, though–many that, in my opinion, were decidedly better than mine. I won’t dissemble here and say I loved all the stories–some were just okay to me, but of course readers have different preferences and opinions.
These are my favorites in the collection, which I’ll review individually.
“The Little Sunflower” by Katja Labonte: This might be my favorite story in the collection. It’s an allegory about a small, unremarkable sunflower and the influence she has on others, and while the setting is modern, the writing style is delightfully vintage. I felt like I could have been reading something from the Victorian era. And the theme–it is so lovely.
“Just Joy” by Rebekah Morris: This is another story with a Victorian writing style. I liked Joy, an orphan who lives with her aunt, uncle, and cousins, as well as the theme and character growth.
“He Sees Me” by Erika Mathews: While I loved this author’s kingdom fantasy series, I wasn’t sure what I would think of this contemporary story. However, I ended up enjoying it, especially because of the characters and the theme.
“Unorganized Joy” by Bree Pembrook: This was another fun contemporary story. It followed sisters Cosima and Aella, who seem like opposites in everything. I also appreciated the meanings of the character names–I love it when other authors pay as much attention to character naming as I do.
“Nobody Ever Observes” by Bethany Willcock: I’ve never read a Sherlock Holmes mystery, but I do enjoy this author’s series of spin-offs, beginning with a story in the “Everything” collection. The sequel was almost as good, though I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as “Everything”, for reasons I can’t pinpoint.
“The Happy Lesson” by Kayla James: I just love stories where characters get snowed in in uncomfortable places. That trope as well as the character growth are why this story became one of my favorites.
“I Am With You” by Autumn Joy: I really liked the characters of Coleston and Leise in this contemporary story.
“Keys to Joy” by Hannah E. Griggs: Set in modern London, this story follows a musician who finds that even the most amazing earthly things can never satisfy without God. I liked the theme and the fact that this story was set in my favorite large city.
June 7, 2024
This was the very first anthology I read in a long time and I really enjoyed it.
There were many stories I absolutely adored and that almost made me cry. Others weren’t really for me but I loved reading them nonetheless.
There were many stories I absolutely adored and that almost made me cry. Others weren’t really for me but I loved reading them nonetheless.
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