The unforgettable characters of the Wisteria House and Sorrow & Song Trilogies come together in this poignant Christmas story of the next generation.
A veteran of both the Second World War and the Korean War, combat medic A.J. Harrison returns home in the fall of 1952, permanently injured and uncertain of his future. As the long-anticipated holiday at home approaches, his family’s joy is quenched when A.J.’s service record is called into question. How can he defend himself when feelings of failure already assault him from every side?
Hope Carver appears to have a fairytale life, surrounded by a large, loving family. But she lives in frustration over her secret affliction and in fear of others discovering it. What would the young man she’s been in love with for years think if he knew the truth about the girl he regards as his kid sister?
When Hope holds the key to proving A.J.’s character, will she be able to face her fears to defend him? And will that truth set him free to love?
Born and raised in the Atlanta area, Jennifer's debut historical fiction work, Some Through the Fire, is set in that very city during the tumultuous events of 1917-1920. Jennifer has worked professionally as a tutor, ghostwriter, editor, and administrative assistant, including 10 years in vocational ministry. She and her husband Christopher live in the Atlanta area with their four young children. Jennifer stays busy writing, editing, homeschooling, and homemaking.
Let Nothing You Dismay is the Christmas gift that keeps on giving—a story of heartache, healing, and a romance that’s as deep as it is sweet. A.J. Harrison, a battle-tested veteran of World War II and the Korean War, returns home in 1952, physically and emotionally scarred, unsure of his place in a world that has moved on without him. He’s the kind of character who makes you ache for his struggle—his internal battle is just as raw as the war wounds he’s carrying.
Hope Carver, with her bright smile and seemingly perfect life, is anything but the carefree girl-next-door she appears to be. Beneath the surface, she carries a quiet burden—one that isolates her in ways no one can see. And then there’s A.J., whose scars, both visible and hidden, make it hard for him to believe in his own worth. Yet, in the midst of their personal struggles, Hope becomes the unexpected balm for A.J.’s wounded soul.
What makes their connection so powerful is the slow, tender way it builds—each moment more intimate, more vulnerable than the last. As Hope steps into the role of defender for A.J., helping him face his darkest fears, the tension between them becomes a thread that pulls you through the story. Their bond is like a quiet crescendo, unfolding with such authenticity that it’s impossible not to root for them both. You watch as they struggle, grow, and support one another in the most real way possible, and it’s a reminder of how powerful love and trust can be when you least expect it.
This book beautifully weaves faith and history into the fabric of A.J. and Hope’s stories. There’s no sugarcoating here. The past, especially the wounds left by war, is messy and real. And yet, Let Nothing You Dismay is all about grace and redemption. It’s about the journey from darkness to light, even when you think you’re beyond saving.
From the 1950s setting to the quiet, yet powerful moments of faith, it’s a rich and immersive read. It carries the depth of a Christ-centered life meaning that I so greatly appreciate.
By the end, I was crying happy tears. The epilogue is everything you want from a Christmas story—hope, joy, and a reminder that love, faith, and healing are always possible with Jesus. If you’ve read the Wisteria House or Sorrow & Song series, you’ll get even more out of this one, but honestly, it stands perfectly well on its own.
This story is a reminder of God’s grace, how love can heal even the most broken places, and the fact that even in the darkest times, there’s always hope in Jesus. If you’re looking for a tender romance, wrapped in history, with a heart full of faith, Let Nothing You Dismay is your book.
Final Thoughts: A beautiful Christmas read that’s about healing, redemption, and love in its purest form. Don’t miss it.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the super writing and story’s beautiful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
This is definitely not my normal genre, but I saw a bookstagram post about it and decided to give it a try. I thoroughly enjoyed this story! The characters were likable and easy to root for, the faith elements were beautifully woven in, and I loved the close families. I’ll definitely be checking out more of this author’s work!
I recently finished the Wisteria Series, so I was eagerly anticipating this bonus book. To my joy, it also includes the Sweet family (though I haven’t read that entire series yet.) It was so fun to see familiar characters again and their children all grown up, but even if you haven’t read the previous books, I think you’d be able to pick this one up as a stand alone.
Speaking of people …AJ and Hope were both fantastic and realistic characters. I loved how AJ’s only child personality was fleshed out. He also reminded me a bit of his Uncle Brax (minus the sinful choices baggage). Hope’s sensitive soul resonated with me.
One thing I appreciate about Jennifer Q. Hunt’s writing is how she seamlessly includes interesting facts, events, and culture of the time period. The historical info shared at the end is 🥰❤️👏👏
I also love that Hunt’s books have depth, and this one is no exception. Though it’s lighter than some of her longer stories, the characters in this book still had to work through very difficult life challenges. There were several quotes I highlighted because they were a blessing to me personally.
The end was so sweet! I loved the Epilogue 😍
Recommended for adult readers (though some older teens may also enjoy this story.)
Jennifer Hunt has expertly woven together two special families from two phenomenal series to create the perfect, old-fashioned, feel-good Christmas story. There is depth, humor, romance, faith, suspense, struggles, and can I just say it, good ole Christmas "magic".
I enjoyed every page of this novella, and the author's writing style is always so easy to read. The characters were both easily loveable and relatable. And, as always, I was intrigued by the history and medical knowledge she clearly researches so well! I was definitely blessed by this story this season.
I received a copy from the author and all opinions are my own.
If you’re looking for a short(er) and deep Christmas novella, this is the book for you.
In true Jennifer Q. Hunt fashion, this book grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go until you get to the satisfying happily ever after.
And like every book by Hunt, the faith is deep and rich, even in this shorter novella. The characters have faced so much adversity in their lives but even in the new obstacles they overcome by their faith in God.
Hope’s panic attacks, A.J.’s phantom pains and hard memories don’t stop these two cuties from falling in love or lead them astray from God. Instead, they draw near to Him in a way that feels completely natural and authentic.
I haven’t gotten to read the “Of Sorrow and Song” series yet but I LOVED seeing the other characters of The Wisteria House in this book.
This is the perfect Christmas read if you’re looking for something with richness and depth of faith!
Like all Jennifer Hunt's books, this one draws you in and demands your attention and thoughts until finished. Quite hard to put down! The story is sweet and thought-provoking. Thoroughly enjoyable, and not one to miss for fans of the Wisteria House and Sorrow and Song trilogies.
Let Nothing You Dismay was such a heartfelt and inspiring story that I wish I could give it more than five stars! The story follows the family trees of the author’s two series and features A.J. Harrison(Wisteria House) and Hope Carver (Sorrow and Song). A.J. fought in World War II and the Korean War and had both physical and emotional wounds in need of healing. Hope, employed by A.J.’s father in his at-home clinic, dealt with her own physical and emotional issues. The author does a beautiful job sharing each of their stories and how their personal faith had a powerful impact on each of their situations. While this book could be read as a stand alone, I would strongly encourage reading the two series from which A.J.’s and Hope’s families are featured. Each are excellent series in themselves and will provide background on other characters mentioned. This book was such a joy to read and while I’m sorry to see the series conclude, I can’t wait to see what author Jennifer Q. Hunt writes next!
I received an advanced reader copy from the author. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
A Tremendous Gift to Fans of Sorrow and Song and Wisteria House ♥️
Ahhh! This book was such a treat! Through the story of AJ and Hope, Jennifer wove together all of my favorite characters from my two favorite book series of all time. Please save this book until after you have read both her Sorrow and Song and Wisteria House Series, because it is simply the perfect cherry on top. This book beautifully gives grace to those struggling with anxiety. There is a quote from one of her characters that brought me to tears because I felt it deeply. It highlighted truth from Scripture about the way God cares for us in our struggles with anxiety in a way that I had never thought of before. A stand-out character trait of Jennifer Q. Hunt’s books is that the struggles that her characters encounter are so relatable to those we experience in real life, and the way she integrates the Gospel and truth from God’s Word into their responses creates a beautiful picture of the way we can respond to God in real life. We can lean into Him, find answers to hard questions in His Word, and, as beautifully as Jennifer crafts her stories, the way that God chooses to craft the stories of our lives is even better.
Read this novella in a day and I thought it wrapped both of her series up nicely. If you haven’t read both series of hers, I would recommend it before this book. Though it could be read on its own, I think it makes it all the more sweeter with all the familiar characters together! I loved this book and only put it down to tend to my children. This isn’t as gritty as her other reads, but still filled with faith, great character growth, and purpose. I loved this one and look forward to whatever Jennifer Hunt will release next!
After reading this novella, I came to realize one of the things I love about Jennifer Q Hunt's writing is that she fully develops the plot. I wish Let Nothing You Dismay was twice as long. This one felt rushed because of the length. Even still, I thoroughly enjoyed it because one of the key issues is anxiety (of which I have lots of experience with...)
I haven't read the Sorrow & Song series, but I think I would have been better able to under Hope's family. This didn't decrease my enjoyment of the book. I think it just would have added to it.
Just another lovely book, tying up Hunt’s two family saga series. From glimpses into the lives of old friends to meeting a new generation, I thoroughly enjoyed being back in this bygone era and having my faith renewed in the process.
Beautiful Christmas story. So fun to read with some of my favorite characters from Jennifer’s other books! Not quite as heavy as some of hers but such a sweet Christmas story!
Excellent marriage of 2 wonderful stories. I wish it didn’t end! My favorite part of Jennifer’s books is always the author’s note where she shares the true story behind the events mentioned in the book. Excellent work, again and again!
4.5 stars! This was a wonderful story! I really enjoyed it! I really loved seeing characters from previous books. And I loved this couple and that there was an age gap involved. There was great Christian content as well.
I had the privilege of reading an early copy of this book and it has everything you've come to expect from a Hunt book; character depth, strong faith, rich historical details, and the sweetest romance!
It was also so much fun seeing so many familiar faces from the previous two series (Sorrow & Song series and Wisteria House series).
If you haven't read a Jennifer Q. Hunt book, this is the perfect place to start!
"Let nothing you dismay. There was much to dismay. Yet to a world of wars and disease and loss, a world as frightening as her own, an angel had told terrified shepherds, 'Fear not.' Because of Christ who came to defeat evil and offer salvation."
After fighting in two different words, A.J. Harrison returned home a broken man. His childhood friend, Hope, knows more about some of his experiences than he realizes. Yet she still cares deeply for him. Will A.J. finally be able to see Hope for who she has become rather than the younger girl that he once knew?
Set in the last part of 1952, America is in the midst of another war, and the soldiers are not always well-received. In fact, one of the key parts of this story involves a court-martial trial. This author writes well-researched books. Every time I read one of her books, I learn so many things. I enjoy the historical notes that she always includes in the endnotes.
This sweet, sweet story features characters from both of the author's series, "Sorrow and Song" and "Wisteria House." I think readers would enjoy the holiday elements of this book even if this is their first Hunt book. But I might have loved the book even more because I was familiar with the characters.
I absolutely loved this book! In fact, I bookmarked 27 pages in my e-reader. The characters were wonderful and so was the storyline.
I knew I would love this novel before even picking it up. And I was not disappointed. It had all the things I’ve come to expect from a Jennifer Q Hunt novel; wholesome storytelling that has passionate yet respectful romance, real life faith lived out on the pages, and just enough grit to keep things real and raw. This book made me want to hug my kids close, reminded me to be thankful for life - no matter the hardships that might come, and to rely on my Savior through it all. I loved it so much, I immediately bought two copies for Christmas presents.
What a delightful Christmas read. With her characteristic spiritual and historical depth, Jennifer Hunt woos readers with another deliciously sweet romance. A beautiful tribute to faithful love.
An absolute delight! I loved this Christmas novella by Jennifer Q Hunt. For readers who have enjoyed both the Sorrow and Song and Wisteria House novels, it is such a treat to revisit beloved families from those books, but it would be equally enjoyable (and probably get you hooked on wanting more!) if you've yet to read those series. Loved the sweet relationship between AJ and Hope and the faith elements that Hunt always weaves in so well. A perfect Christmas read.
This was my first introduction to Jennifer Q Hunt and I can guarantee it will *not* be the last of her books I read.
To be honest, I really can’t put into words just how much I loved this story. I listened to it on audible but hope to own a print copy someday because I KNOW this is going to be one I read every single year at Christmastime. AJ and Hope are such relatable main characters and I loved watching their friendship!
It does deal with some heavier topics ~ referencing events during both World Wars & Korean War and war related PTSD, as well as anxiety/panic in one of the main characters, but it is all dealt with in ways that, while heavy, have beautiful hope intertwined through out.
The faith Truths woven throughout the story were beautiful: God is a God of redemption, forgiveness….A God of second chances, Sovereign and in control….A God who loves us too much to leave us as we are and a God who wants the absolute best for us…..He is in control of all things and His timing is *always* perfect. Even when we can’t see how His plans will unfold we can still trust in His goodness & wisdom, knowing that His plans are usually so much better than anything we could have ever planned!
I also really liked that the (very clean) romance storyline didn’t overpower the story and it was such a sweet relationship to see grow.
I absolutely adored this story and it’s made me want to read the other 2 series that introduce a lot of the characters mentioned in this one. (You don’t have to have read those stories to enjoy this one but some of the relationships might be a little bit of a spoiler ~ it didn’t affect my enjoyment at all though!)
*I received a free audible credit from the author for this book but all opinions are strictly my own and have not been influenced in any way*
This historical faith filled romance is beautifully written and left me racing to the end and wanting more. Let Nothing You Dismay by Jennifer Q Hunt brings together two series. I have not read either and had no problem following the story, but I loved this one so much that I will be reading more of Jennifer’s books soon.
When AJ returns from the Korean War with injuries that are deeper than what the eye can see, he barely recognizes little Hope who is all grown up. Hope has her own problems she keeps hidden. Their lives are thrown together through her job and a situation he is pulled into.
A tender friendship develops between them. I loved that faith was the foundation of their friendship, and it is beautifully woven into the storyline.
The story tugged at my heartstrings with all that AJ went through in the war and the issues he had to deal with once home. It was also interesting to learn some of the history surrounding the Korean War.
The holiday setting adorns the book with little touches and descriptions that will make you long for Christmases past. It’s a great holiday read, but worthy of reading anytime.
Curl up in your chair and enjoy A. J. and Hope’s story. This beautiful book draws on the faith journey of the characters as they move through tough life realities in the direction God is moving them. It contains all the heartache, angst, revealing of the evil of man through war and politics, questions to God, as well as the romance and happy endings that we are accustomed to from Jennifer Q Hunt.
If this is your first reading of a Hunt novel, I highly recommend that you include the Sorrow and Song and Wisteria House series to your TBR. Although it can be read as a stand-alone, it will be more meaningful once you read the series and see how she draws the families together in this Christmas Novela.
A delightful read. As always a page turner from Jennifer Q Hunt that was as endearing as inspirational. AJ and Hope birth stories were each told in Jennifer Q Hunt's two series Sorrow and Song and Wisteria House. Now they are grown adults facing the world with each of their own challenges and support from their families, even though they may feel they would whether do without with a few family members' misguided attempt to support them. These characters from both series set in Atlanta, GA 1895-1953 also welcomes the reader into the Atlanta community during this period. I will miss these families hope they appears in future works but I also look forward to meeting new characters from Ms. Hunt.
Well, the conclusion of one of the best series I’ve read has finally arrived. While I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters whom I’ve grown to love, I can’t help but look forward to revisiting this series in the future. I enjoyed this novella featuring Adam and Arilee’s son, A.J., as the main character. It was heartwarming to see him as an adult, struggling with challenges and finding love. This book, and the entire series, is the essence of Christian fiction. It revolves around characters facing real-life situations, dealing with various struggles, and finding solace in Jesus amidst their hardships. I highly recommend reading the entire series. I’ll be reading her other series, Sorrow & Song, next.
Normally, I’m not a big fan of novellas, but this time I’m really glad I gave them a chance, because it meant I could enjoy this series a little longer. I’ve said it before, but the faith woven throughout these books is truly beautiful. I love how the characters turn to God in difficult situations and consistently uplift one another.
Their interactions feel so genuine and heartfelt, and it’s made me reflect on my own life, especially how I speak to and about others. That’s something I really appreciate in a story.
I’m so sad that this series is over, but I’m excited to dive into the author’s other books. Fingers crossed I’ll get a few for Mother’s Day… and if not, I might just treat myself!
This was the Jennifer Q. Hunt book fans didn't know we needed! While this book can probably be read on its own, I am absolutely recommending that you read the Sorrow and Song and Wisteria House books first. Yes, there are 7 of them. Yes, you will absolutely fall in love with them. Will you reread them later? I did. Let Nothing You Dismay is the love story between a couple from each series and brings back so MANY characters from the original books. I was impressed with Jennifer's ability to incorporate such a large number of characters, remind us why we loved them, and keep all the details straight. Then she adds in her usual tough topics; for this one, it was PTSD, court martials, and anxiety. But then she does something different in the last third of the book - it's primarily focused on the romance and happily ever after. If you've read her books, you know how deeply these characters deserve a happily ever after. I absolutely loved this *chef's kiss* at the end of the series, wrapped up in a big beautiful bow, that had me wanting to go back and start the books all over again.
*I beta read this book and designed the cover. This doesn't mean I had to provide a positive review. These books are genuinely wonderful.
I loved seeing the next generation of two beloved series come together in this touching Christmas treasure! Hunt didn’t hold back, showing hard historical truths like the costs of war and government corruption. As always, her villains are so very realistic—I find myself seething and wishing I could deliver justice with my own hand. (I probably need some sort of counseling…)
The hard parts are intertwined with beautiful faith and sweet romance. There is so much hope in this one! And I can’t wait to add the paperback to my shelf. Probably my favorite cover from Hunt! So lovely!