Where We Belong: An Orphan Train Novel

by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Four lives from Kansas and New York cross paths in a joyful novel of love, determination, and the unbreakable bonds of family—from the beloved and bestselling author of Hope's Enduring Echo.

The life of Hester Haak, a widow with no children of her own, takes an unexpected turn when she opens her Kansas home to children from the bustling streets of New York City. The orphan asylum has entrusted her with two sisters and a young boy, and Hester is determined to provide a safe and loving environment for them. Despite the looming uncertainty of their stay, she rises to the challenge, embracing the opportunity to make a difference in their lives.

Meanwhile, Callum Holbrook is grappling with the loss of his wife and the despair that followed. Unable to provide for his family, he made the heart-wrenching decision to place his daughters in an orphanage, promising it was only temporary. Now, with a stable job and a renewed sense of purpose, Callum is horrified to learn that his daughters have been sent halfway across the country. Fueled by determination and love, he embarks on the difficult journey to bring them back.

Through their struggles and triumphs, Hester and Callum discover that family and love can be found in the most surprising places—and that the journey home is paved with hope.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Christian, Adoption, Inspirational

353 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 21, 2026

About the author

Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Kim's titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different languages. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim's passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn't writing, you'll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or--as time allows--participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim's writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Within a few pages, I knew that I held a masterpiece in my hands. Not only was the narrative captivating and propulsive, but the characters were endearing and life-like, and the writing style was inviting. I found it difficult to set this book down. In fact, this is one for the forever shelf.

New-to-me author Kim Vogel Sawyer writes to highlight the power of love, to remind us that God doesn’t always answer in the way we think He will, that He often puts people in our lives to help guide us in His will, and that roadblocks can be God’s means of redirection. Sawyer’s faith thread is gentle yet impactful.

Sawyer’s character development is absolutely AMAZING. Seven-year-old Marion Guy Sadler won my heart with his mispronunciations (Flippastines) and his soft heart. I was impressed with Callum and his 12-year-old daughter, Evelyn’s, transformations, which reminded me of the power of love. Hester Haak is a wonderful soul, and I hope we get to read more about her in future books.

I’m so glad I took a chance on this powerful story, as it will rank up there with my favourites of 2025.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Grandma Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book. Hester was a beautiful character. She ends up opening her home to orphans. I loved her interaction with the children. Happy and sad moments. I could feel these emotions. I was quite invested in this story the more it unfolded. Deeply satisfying, heartwarming book. Outstanding narration. Highly recommend.

I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.

[Brittanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you think your week is going badly, just wait until you meet Callum… 😬

In Where We Belong by Kim Vogel Sawyer, the emotional damage starts early. Imagine discovering your children have been shipped off on an orphan train. Yes, actual nightmare fuel, only to realize you maybe should’ve visited them sometime in the last year. (Cue righteous indignation only slightly mollified due to financial difficulties and an obviously caring father)

Hester, meanwhile, is out there being humbly close to perfect. Kind, patient, faithful… basically the human equivalent of a warm hug and a devotional rolled into one. Could i be that gracious with Evelyn? Could you? I don’t think it would be easy. Hester deserves a medal, and maybe a nap.

The first half gently builds the world, but don’t get too comfy, the second half comes in swinging. Around the 60% mark? Emotional devastation. By 68%? Anticipatory tears. And yet… it’s the kind of pain you sign up for, because watching these characters claw their way toward healing is incredibly satisfying.

Cozy, heartfelt, love of family wraps around this story like a hug. Also: forced proximity? (Cue giggles) gives quietly romantic energy that sneaks up at the very end.

And Mary’s storyline? Did not see that coming. A sneaky little emotional curveball that pays off beautifully.

✨ Themes woven throughout:
Adoption, infertility, grief, single parenthood, troubled children—and above all, redemption.

This is one of those gentle, faith-filled reads that somehow manages to both wreck you and comfort you at the same time. If you like your stories emotional, meaningful, and ultimately hopeful… welcome home. 💛

Thanks to NetGalley and RB Media for the exciting ability to read this story before it comes out!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

An absolutely lovely story of a woman who opens her home to needy children during the Great Depression. Her heart for the kids shines through the pages so well and I felt invested in what happened to her within the first few pages. There's less of Callum, Evelyn, and Scotty's stories, but I enjoyed all of them also. Honestly, I'd be perfectly satisfied to be plopped down in old Kansas and become friends with all of them!

For a fairly quiet story, there were a bunch of plot twists I didn't see coming, and it kept me flipping pages as a reader and genuinely worried a few times that I'd ever see everyone happy on the Kansas prairie.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“God is always working on behalf of His children. I don’t always understand His ways, but I’ve learned that I can always trust His heart.”

Ohhhh y’all. Be prepared for the characters in Where We Belong by Kim Vogel Sawyer to wrap themselves right around your heart. At least they did mine. Especially endearingly adorable Guy (and his pure joy in life) and hilarious, crusty, and big-hearted Scotty who made me smile all the way down to my toes on a regular basis in this touching story. But I loved & wanted to hug nearly every single character – main and supporting – before I reached the end. Hester and her open-armed decision to adopt the remaining orphan train children who needed a home (and care for them so lovingly) is the star of this novel and an inspiring role model of selflessness and grace. (Because resentful almost-fourteen-year-old Evelyn and the unexpected arrival of Callum Holbrook don’t make things easy on her.) I hope that in her position I would be willing to disrupt my life the way she did – and so warmly – but I suspect I would take a lot of convincing instead. (I’m set in my ways now haha)

Where We Belong dispenses its story and its surprises at a gentle pace, and the author includes so many heartwarming moments, as well as meaningful discussions of faith, without allowing the narrative to appear either saccharine or preachy. Historical fiction set during the Great Depression is often full of gut-punch moments and harsh realities, and Kim Vogel Sawyer doesn’t overlook that aspect. The plot revolves around children being orphaned or abandoned by parents who could no longer care for them & sent west on orphan trains, after all. Nevertheless, Sawyer skillfully maintains an uplifting tone overall, even when life is at its toughest for Hester, Scotty, Callum, and the children in Hester’s care. I giggled, I grinned, I teared up. I wanted so badly for everything to work out for everyone that I nearly started praying for them! And the character growth? Completely rewarding and believable.

Bottom Line: Where We Belong just became my favorite book by Kim Vogel Sawyer. This heart-hugging, character-driven, and faith-girded tale of “found family” delivers a tender reminder that God is always working in our lives – for our good, for other people, and for His glory – even when we can’t see His hand. I adored the characters, the humor, and the love on these pages, and I wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye when the story ended. Kim Vogel Sawyer’s talent with character development shines here, and I would be first in line for another novel that features even glimpses of my now-dear friends that I met under Hester’s roof. My spirit is lighter and my heart is full after reading Where We Belong which would make a great next read for readers who enjoy orphan train novels, found family themes, and reminders of God’s bigger picture.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at my link text

[Sarah | Sarah's Story Nook ⚘ · Rating 5 out of 5]

《 five stars 》

It's been a while since I read a book that drew me in as quickly as Where We Belong did. Within the first few chapters, I had already fallen in love with the characters, with the setting, with the storytelling, everything. Something about Sawyer's writing is just so beautiful and tender, and speaks to the soul in the same way old favorites do, even though the language is simple.

Though it is a quieter story, the stakes were high enough that I simply had to keep reading in order to find out what would happen next, if it really would all turn out right in the end. And when that ending did come? Well, I'm not ashamed to admit I may have shed a tear, despite the smile I know was on my face.

Sawyer has crafted a masterpiece, here, and it is one I look forward to placing on my shelves. If you are a historical fiction reader with a love for intimate, heartwarming, and, quietly compelling stories, then I would highly recommend giving Where We Belong a try. 💕

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ a note regarding content: mentions of losing loved ones (spouses, parents), familial separation, runaways, and stealing. Light romantic tension, some hugs, & a kiss. A side character is pregnant out of wedlock. Characters pray, read the Bible, quote Scriptures, and attend church, in a manner woven into their daily life.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found that I loved this one right from the beginning! Interesting, as I don’t believe I’ve read this author before, but she now has a loyal follower!

The story dates back to the times of the Great Depression… when there was no money… little hope… few jobs… and a world like no one had seen before.

Callum Holbrook lost his wife after their second baby was born. He’s been grieving her ever since!
But, when times got hard, he did the unthinkable… He left his two girls in an orphanage… with the plan of picking them up when his life stabilized!

Now that he has a steady job and a place to live, he goes back to get them. But, more than a year has passed. And when he arrives, they are gone! And, the orphanage is closing! They tell him the girls have been sent West. He’s in NYC, so he asks where? And the woman is not sure, but she thinks maybe Kansas…. He is once again heartbroken. He needs to find his girls…

Over in Kansas is a young woman named Hester Haak. She’s a widower who always wanted children of her own, but she and her husband were never blessed with them. Now that he’s gone, she decides that she wants to adopt a little girl… She hears about the Last Train from the orphanage in NY and goes to see about adopting. But when she gets there, she falls in love with a little girl… but doesn’t want to separate her from her older sister. And then, there’s a young boy they’ve bonded with as well. But… Will she be able to adopt the three of them being a widower?

This one pulls you in right from the beginning! And the characters with all their real life struggles only make you appreciate the story all the more,and,root for each of them every step of the way!!

It’s a story filled with hope, and courage, and strength, and love, and family bonds, and small town love and camaraderie as well as multiple stumbling blocks, and religion, and faith… and so much more!

Beautiful story! Beautiful underlying meanings! Wonderful characters… plus all the accolades of small town living. 🩷

#WhereWeBelong by @KimVogelSawyer and narrated Beautifully by @JennetteSelig.

All the stars for me for bringing out so many wonderful emotions throughout the book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫💫💫💫💫🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✨✨✨✨✨

***** THIS ONE HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET! Please look 👀 for it in a few days on 4/21/26! *****

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @RecordedBooks and @RBMedia for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!

And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved every page. In that deeply satisfied reader-heart way where the characters feel like people I have known, prayed for, and hoped beside. Hester. Callum. The children. The ache of separation. The longing for home. The fear of loving deeply when the future is uncertain. The quiet courage required to keep doing the next right thing.

Hester Haak never expected to become a mother in this season of her life, especially not to three children sent from New York to Kansas through the Children’s Aid Society. Yet when need arrives, she opens her heart. She opens her home. She gives safety, patience, structure, prayer, and affection to children who desperately need all of it.

That is where this story settled so deeply for me. Because Hester’s love is not protected by guarantees.
She does not know how long these children will stay. She does not know what grief may come. She does not know whether opening her heart will eventually break it.

But she loves anyway. That kind of love is costly. It is also deeply Christlike.

Callum’s part of the story carries a different ache. He is a grieving father who made a painful choice when he believed he had no other one. His determination to find his daughters is filled with regret, hope, fear, and love that has not stopped reaching for them. I appreciated the honesty in his journey. He is wounded. He is trying. He is learning. He is not a flat character or an easy villain, and I was grateful for that.

The faith content in this book is exactly the kind I treasure in Christian fiction. It is clear. It is present. It is natural. Jesus is named. Prayer matters. Scripture matters. The Bible is part of life. Characters do not merely try to be kind people in a vaguely inspirational story. Their choices are shaped by faith in the Lord.

The Christian faith in Where We Belong lives on the pages. It is in the prayers whispered over children. It is in the desire for young hearts to know and serve Jesus. It is in the way love becomes action. It is in the way people are seen, welcomed, corrected, forgiven, and cared for.

One quote especially stayed with me: “Jesus had risen from the grave, conquering sin and death for all eternity. She would forever glory in the new life He offered when she was still an unwanted orphan longing for love. Even while she continued the story, she inwardly prayed that these precious children would grow to love and serve Jesus all the days of their lives.”

That is the heartbeat I felt running through this story. New life in Jesus. Love for the unwanted. Prayer for the next generation. Hope that reaches beyond earthly circumstances.

Another quote captured so much of why this book touched me: “Old people. Young people. Rich people. Poor people. People with hearts of gold, like Miz Hester. People with hearts as cold as the inside of a Minnesota icehouse. He’d met ’em, and he’d prayed for all of ’em, because the way he saw it, what all them people needed more than anything else was somebody to love ’em the way Jesus did. So he did his best to shine a little bit of Jesus’s love on ’em before moving on.”

That may be one of my favorite descriptions of lived-out Christian love. Just a life that keeps asking, “How can I shine a little bit of Jesus’ love here?”

That is what made Where We Belong so special to me.

There are children who need a home. A father longing to reunite his family. A woman loving with open hands. Grief. Resilience. Belonging. The ache of doing the right thing when the outcome is not guaranteed. And through all of it, the love of Jesus shines through ordinary people who choose compassion when it costs them something.

I listened to the audiobook and read the ebook, and both formats were excellent. The audiobook carried the tenderness of the story beautifully, while the ebook gave me space to pause over the lines I wanted to hold close.

This was easily a five-star read for me. Maybe five-plus!

I finished it grateful. Grateful for characters I cared about. Grateful for a story that felt sincere. Grateful for Christian fiction that lets faith breathe naturally on the page while clearly pointing to Jesus.

Where We Belong reminded me that home is not only a roof or a place on a map. Sometimes home is where love obeys God, opens the door, sets another place at the table, and shines Jesus’ love into someone else’s darkness.

I received ebook and audiobook copies of Where We Belong from WaterBrook and Recorded Books/RBmedia through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set in Kansas and New York City – this is a sweet story and an easy read.

The story is told from multiple points of view which helped to add some dimension to the story. I found the story somewhat predictable and the pacing inconsistent. Also, the orphan train was a very minor part of the story which was unfortunate because I would have loved more of that. Overall, if you’re looking for a light historical fiction read – with themes of family, faith, hope, finding your home, and a tiny dash of romance then definitely pick this up.


Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where We Belong by Kim Vogel Sawyer is an awesome, amazing book!

Usually if I'm zinging through a book and needing to know what happens next it is a suspense or thriller. But I was so invested in these characters I could not put this book down. I finished it in a day! This is not my first book by this author, but it is now my favorite.

I was captivated from the very first page. I could feel Callum Holbrook's excitement and his desire to get to his children, two girls who he had no choice but to put in an orphanage when he was destitute and unable to care for them. However, now he was exhilarated, planning to pick them up because he had employment and housing. However, his hope was shattered when he learned that his children had been sent out west on an orphan train.

And then we switch points of view to Hester Haak, a childless widow living in Kansas who desires the love and companionship of a little girl, a daughter, so she heads out to meet the orphan train. I mean, you can see where this is going, right? How can we not have compassion for both Callum and Hester?

And we also get the point of view of one of the girls, the teenager Evelyn, or Evvie. The reader can feel her determination and her confusion. Wondering why her and her sister Winnie have been sent out west, when she KNOWS her father is still alive and is supposed to be coming for them. So, when this strange woman wants to be her momma, she wants nothing to do with her. Yes, I admit I understand her attitude, but there were times I felt she went a little overboard. I loved seeing the way she changed throughout the story.

The other point of view is that of Scotty, an older man who had been a drifter, yet was now living in the storeroom of Hester's store and helping out with fixing and loading and such. Their relationship was close to that of father and daughter, and you could see that they cared about each other.

I love the way this found family grew to love and care for each other. All the while wondering what would happen when the "real" father, Callum, found his children.

I loved the way the town rallied around this family, welcoming the children, supporting them and Hester, caring for them in times of need. The younger children were wonderful characters. I loved Winnie and Guy and another little boy that found his way to them. I loved the way God placed people in their lives and in the life of Callum. I loved the spiritual truths that are shared in the book, and the faith that the majority of the characters had, while also seeing the way God was working to draw others to Himself, even through their anger and pain. And the reminder that God's will is not always what we think it's going to be. God answers prayer. God is there for us, even in our darkest times. But He is sovereign and He knows best, even if we can't see it at the time.

Here is a quote that spoke to me:

"'Mr. Holbrook, I can't speak to this particular situation, but I can share my experiences. In the past when I felt as though God threw a barrier into my path, I eventually discovered He had something else - something better - in mind for me.' The man's solemn yet kind tone held Callum's attention. 'Maybe God is protecting you from something or is guiding you in a new direction.' He put his hand on Callum's shoulder. 'You see, God is always working on behalf of His children. I don't always understand His ways, but I've learned that I can always trust His heart.'"

Very inspiring, very emotional, very heartwarming. I can't really say anything else besides - I just loved this book and highly recommend it.

My only disappointment is having to say goodbye to these characters. I wish their story could continue. Thankfully the author wrapped everything up perfectly.

[Emily Olson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
The orphan train premise for Where We Belong caught my attention. I enjoyed reading how Hester Haak opens her home to three children who all need her love for different reasons. The story is told from multiple points of view, helping to really create the sense of found family.

I did struggle with the pacing of the story. At times the story lagged in certain areas and some of the emotional reflections were repetitive. That said, the central themes of identity, hope, and finding your home were still compelling.

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Eva Chupp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn’t necessarily a “good book” but I loved it nonetheless and absolutely ate it up. I wish there was another book. I think I want to be Hester Haak.

[Kendra DeMartino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved loved loved everything about this book. The historical fiction, the happy ending and just the small town love feel !!!

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kim Vogel Sawyer broke and mended my heart all in one book!

Kim Vogel Sawyer has become one of my very favorite authors and her new release always becomes one of my most anticipated of the year. I’m so excited I got to read her new one early! (Thank you to the publisher, WaterBrook Multnomah, and NetGalley for the advanced copy!)

This was such a sweet story! Right off the bat, it was so sad with Callum losing his daughters. I loved his determination to get them back. I also loved Hester. She was such a wonderful character. She never lost her faith, and her love for the children never wavered. Even when Evelyn was acting out, Hester always treated her with respect and kindness. She was such an inspiration.

I liked seeing God work in Callum’s life as well. I was truly torn in wondering who would be better for the children.

I truly loved all the characters, especially Scotty. He was such a sweet man (if a little rough around the edges). He was so faithful and hardworking and loving to those around him. His relationship with Hester was very sweet.

There is very little romance in this book, which I found refreshing. There’s definitely no instalove either.

I just love Kim Vogel Sawyer’s writing style as well. Her books have such an easy to read writing style, the dialogue feels natural and authentic to the time period, and the time period really comes to life for me.

Highly recommend this one if you want a heartbreaking (in spots) but also hopeful read. I loved it!!

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful heartfelt story set mainly in 1931, Kansas.
During the early days of the Depression, a younger childless widow feels led to adopt a child from the last Orphan Train out of New York City. Her life is about to change in more ways than she could ever imagine.

An absolutely heart tugging story with an array of characters who come together because of their love for children who need a home. The writing draws in multiple perspectives, with their colliding paths causing an ethical dilemma. There is a solid Christian message woven in that is an important redemptive theme in the end. I couldn't read it fast enough to see what happened.

Hester is an amazing person, living out her faith with kindness, patience, love and tender care, taking in children who bring many new challenges into her quiet life. Any new mom will relate to her struggles to manage a business and home life with not just one, but multiple children. She is inspiring in her devotion to help them, and rises to the challenge, even when faced with the possibility of losing them. I loved her sweet persevering nature, and her fun relationship with 'Uncle Scotty'.

Highly recommend this to fans of historical Christian fiction who love a good character driven story. A new one to add to my favorites list. Terrific! 5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.)

[Lisa M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I saw the words "Orphan train" I knew I wanted a chance to read this book. I have a special love for the history of the orphan trains--but that's a story for another day.

This is a rich a beautiful story about the power of a mother's love. There are four (if I remember right) POV: Hester Haak (our 38ish widow), Callum Holbrook (40ish widower), a 14 yearold girl, and Uncle Scotty (old bachelor).

I simply loved Hester's heart. She had a passion for children and believed that with her love paired with God's help--she could move mountains. I love how she fought hard for the children and left everything in God's hands in how it was all going to work. The way she loved the oldest girl through her difficulty. <3

Callum was so passionate in feeling he knew what was best for his girls and seeing him fight for them--yet still arguing with God...and then seeing his growth. It was great.

Uncle Scotty was my favorite. The sweet man. <3

Lots of lessons about how With God All things are Possible, as well as his promises that He has a future and hope for us all.

5 STars because I really didn't want to ever put it down.

*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.

[BRIAN DAY · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heart-warming ending to a story set in the Great Depression. Times are tough. A young couple with a 7-year-old daughter, but then the wife dies during the birth of their second child. The father, Callum Holbrook, loses his job, then his house during the 1929 Depression. He is forced to drop off his two daughters to the orphanage in New York due to the harsh realities of the times, until he can find work and a place to live. But times are so tough that donations have ceased, the orphanage cannot afford to stay open, so they send the orphans out west.

One year later, Callum goes to claim his children, but he’s told that they’ve been transferred out west and have been adopted.

Meanwhile, the central character, Hester Haak, is a wonderful soul who knows misfortune. Her husband dies young, leaving Hester a childless widow in small town Kansas. She had adopted the two Holbrook girls.

Conflict entails. Will the biological father end up with his daughters, or will the kind and loving Hester be able to keep her adopted family intact? Hester’s small Kansas town is full of likable, supportive, caring, church-going citizens that form their idyllic community.

Sawyer’s character development is well done and enriches the novel nicely. Each child has uniqueness, Hester’s love conquers her sorrowful past. Hester has a big-hearted former hobo, Scotty, who is uneducated but wise to the ways of life, living with her.

Sawyer’s writing style is clear, captivating, and quite stirring. Sawyer skillfully maintains an uplifting tone overall, even though the topics and times are difficult.

The story is cozy, heartfelt, displays a loving home environment, character-driven, shows what family can be, suspenseful, empathetic toward all involved, and portrays an active faith-based lifestyle. It’s a story filled with hope, loss, friendships, the longing for home, life’s struggles, love, rejection, fears, family bonds, and small-town support!

The Christian faith throughout the book is a treasure. It’s faith that is lived, sincere, natural. important, and their relationship with Jesus permeates the book. Prayer matters, the Bible is read, their faith directs the characters integrity and action. It’s not a theology book, but it is a catechism lesson on being a Christian through the way people are seen, supported, helped, helpful, accepted, forgiven, and loved. Not that everything in life is sugary, but that we can choose to be carriers of love.

The author kept the story interesting and wrapped everything up perfectly.

[Parkland Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars
Completed: April 15/26
Series: Orphan Train, #1
Format: audio & digital ARC
Narrator: Jennette Selig - excellent

Book #36 of 2026: What a wonderful story! I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The narration is also excellent.

A widow, Hester, takes on a few orphan train children to fulfill her dream of being a mom. Life becomes a little chaotic but she loves every bit of it, even with one child repeatedly saying she wants to go home to New York City. She loves the children and relishes being able to cover them in love and care.

We also hear from three other points of view:
1. Callum is the girls’ father back in New York who does not know his daughters were sent on an orphan train until it is too late. The girls were only supposed to be at an orphanage until he secured employment and a place to stay. He had promised his daughters that he would come for them, and he will live up to that promise, one way or another.
2. Evelyn is Callum’s oldest daughter and she is determined for herself and her sibling to get back to their father in New York. She is stubborn, loyal, and a caring big sister to Winnie. She resents the adoption.
3. We also hear Scotty’s perspective, Hester’s hired hand. He has the biggest heart, a compassionate countenance, and godly wisdom.

I enjoyed every character, the ups and downs of orphan train adoptions, and the individual responses and adaptations from everyone. There are so many facets to the story and various relationship issues. Will Evelyn ever accept Hester? Will her dad ever be reunited with his daughters? What legalities are at play? How difficult all of these variables would be for both children and the adults.

Your heartstrings are pulled in many directions for resolve that is best for all. Yet, there are so many light and fun moments and good conversations along the way.

I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. This is my favorite of those novels I’ve read by this author. I strongly recommend it. This was an immensely satisfying read.


>>> My sincerest gratitude to WaterBrook and to Net Galley for advance audio and digital copies of this novel. My voluntary review is in my own words and represents my honest opinion.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Where We Belong" by Kim Vogel Sawyer is such a powerful story of the bonds that can connect us and how God connects us to the right people in our lives to lead and guide us along the way. I absolutely loved this story despite some of the heartbreak. Hester is such an amazing character making the snap decision to adopt 3 children she just met, taking in a hobo years before on the train feeding him and putting him to work in her store and dealing with the many challenges that come her way.

My heart broke for Callum having to put his daughters into an orphanage since he was unable to care for them, coming back to get them just to find they had been moved out west. He loves his girls but knows he can't care for them in the way they need to be cared for.

The faith in this book is incredible and the author portrays this found family in a way that will grab at your heartstrings. I highly recommend this book and found it to be one of the best historical fiction novels I've read this year. This is definitely a book that will keep the reader thinking past the last page. I can also see this one being a great book club pick someday for my book club.

I had the opportunity to listen to an audiobook of this one and the narration was fantastic.

Thank you to RB Media for the opportunity to listen to an audiobook ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the storyline and setting in this book. In the back of my mind I kept seeing a small town like little house on the prairie. A town where there are no secrets and everyone is ready to lend a helping hand. The time in which the story takes place was economically challenging for everyone. I love stories that deal with hardship and perseverance. This book definitely had that with the economy, influenza and other challenges to everyday life in that time. The book had an enjoyable cast of characters. Hester has such a pure and loving heart. Scotty is endearing in his own way. Evelyn is appropriately hard to appreciate. The boys are full of gratitude and eager to be part of a family. Sweet little Winifred like all small children has an innocence about her. The characters really come to life for the reader. You feel right along with them through their ups and downs. The growth of the characters was inspiring. I found myself cheering for them.
The reader is reminded that God is with them through life’s challenges and victories. We may not understand why we have certain trials, but we can trust that blessings are waiting for us on the other side. The story addressed many hardships of life. It dealt with loss, sin, illness and abandonment. It also dealt with learning to open oneself up to new opportunities, forgiveness and knowing who God says we are.
This is one of my favorite books by this author.

[Luminous Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, this tender historical novel follows Hester Haak, a widow who opens both her home and her heart to orphaned children arriving in Kansas on the orphan train. Meanwhile, in New York, Callum Holbrook grapples with the heart-wrenching choice he made to place his young daughters in an orphanage while he worked to provide for them. When he learns that they have been sent west on the orphan train, he sets off on a journey to reunite his family.

This story is told through the perspectives of four unique characters—Hester, Callum, Callum’s daughter Evelyn, and the elderly handyman who has become an integral part of Hester's makeshift family. Their lives and stories intertwine so beautifully, and I absolutely loved the found-family aspect!

I haven’t read many books set during the Great Depression, so this was a interesting read for me and also very heartwarming, with themes of family, faith, and a bit of clean romance towards the end.

[PhyllisRBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

An endearing journey of the heart that held me captive from the beginning. Where do we end up? Does God even care?

Making hard decisions after the passing of his wife, Callum Holbrook entrusts his daughters to a home so he can solidify their situation for the future.

Hester Haak, a childless widow, seeks a daughter to call her own but finds herself saying “yes” to three children from the orphan train.

Beyond the MCs, the supporting characters are priceless-a gruff and protective Uncle Scotty, a life-loving boy named Guy, a wise man named Billy, a small town that lends support and a true sense of community that can be rare today.

Set in the struggles of the 1920s, this story of hardship, frustration, resilience and hope shows us that God does care, His ways are not our ways, and He ordains where we live for our good and His glory. The wisdom within these pages is touching. Here’s an example-

“I haven’t darkened a church doorway since August twenty-fifth, 1926. That’s the day we laid my wife in the ground.” “Mad at God, are you?” The abrupt question took Callum by surprise for two reasons. One, the man was brighter than he’d realized. And for the first time, he admitted it wasn’t so much a lack of belief but anger that had put a barrier between himself and the God his parents had taught him to love and serve. “I guess I am.” “You suffered a loss. Anger’s a natural response. But staying there doesn’t do you much good, does it?”

This is the first audiobook I have listened to that was narrated by Jennette Selig and I really enjoyed her style, voice, and character interpretations. I would choose to listen to her again.

This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. I also purchased the audiobook.

[Renae Reji · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much NetGalley + the publisher for this AMAZING read!!!

If I had to describe this book in only one word it would be: ♡ Heartwarming. ♡

I got the audiobook version and it was such a wholesome listen. The story is so full of love, hope, family, faith, and people finding where they truly belong despite hardship. What I loved most about this book were the Bible verses and themes woven so beautifully and meaningfully.

This is DEFINITELY my favorite orphan train novels so far!! . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. ❤︎

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good. The story, the characters, the love. I listened to the audiobook (the narrator was great) and I will be getting the hard copy for my bookshelves.

Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for an ALC in exchange for an honest review.

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book, but found the pacing to be uneven and very slow in places.

[J.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. Great characters, and just a sweet read.

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading at the airport. So far I love it.

Hester Haak was a widow who had never been blessed with children. After her husband's passing, she felt as though she never would.

Two little girls come into her life through an orphan train. However, what she didn’t know was that their father was still alive and didn’t know where they were.

A widower with little means, Callum Holbrook left his girls at an orphanage, to be cared for until he could provide for himself and his girls. After that branch of the Children’s Aid Society was closing, and they couldn’t locate him, they put his girls on an orphan train to Kansas.

This is the story of Callum’s search for his daughters and Hester‘s new (and growing) family.

Sweet story although some of it seemed a bit far-fetched. Still it was sweet with a very definite Christian faith arc.

[Sarah Hanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy historical stories of found family, you've got to read this. It's an absolutely beautiful orphan train novel that tugs on the heartstrings and leaves the reader with deep satisfaction. Loved it!

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Historical (very light romance; suitable for younger teens too)

About this book:

“The life of Hester Haak, a widow with no children of her own, takes an unexpected turn when she opens her Kansas home to children from the bustling streets of New York City. The orphan asylum has entrusted her with two sisters and a young boy, and Hester is determined to provide a safe and loving environment for them. Despite the looming uncertainty of their stay, she rises to the challenge, embracing the opportunity to make a difference in their lives.
Meanwhile, Callum Holbrook is grappling with the loss of his wife and the despair that followed. Unable to provide for his family, he made the heart-wrenching decision to place his daughters in an orphanage, promising it was only temporary. Now, with a stable job and a renewed sense of purpose, Callum is horrified to learn that his daughters have been sent halfway across the country. Fueled by determination and love, he embarks on the difficult journey to bring them back.
Through their struggles and triumphs, Hester and Callum discover that family and love can be found in the most surprising places—and that the journey home is paved with hope.”


Series: As of now, it seems to be a stand-alone novel.


Spiritual Content- 1 John 4:11 at the beginning; Scriptures are quoted, mentioned, & remembered; Many prayers & thanking God; Church going; Many talks about God, Jesus, His plans and His will, & those and events in the Bible; Most ’H’s are capital when referring to God and Jesus (some Scriptures read do not have the ‘H’s capitalized); Evelyn is mad at God for taking away her mother, *Spoiler* but at the end, starts to pray again and realize that her mother is happy in Heaven, so she shouldn’t be mad at God *End of Spoilers*; Callum stopped praying and going to church after God didn’t answer his prayers to let his wife live, so he is angry at God and wants to solve his own problems instead of praying about them; *Spoiler* After a conversation with Evelyn, Callum realizes it doesn’t help to be mad at God and he needs God’s help *End of Spoiler*; Many mentions of God, Jesus, & His plans and His will; Many mentions of prayers, praying, answered prayers, thanking God, & blessings over food; Mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, & those and events in the Bible; Mentions of churches, church going, Sunday school classes, services, a preacher, & sermons; Mentions of Easter & Jesus’s resurrection; Mentions of Heaven; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A couple mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of godsends;
*Note: A few mentions of luck & being lucky (most in the context of not needing it because the character has God); A mention of superstitions.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘stinkin’’, two forms of ‘stupid’, and three ‘dumb’s; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Evelyn lies (and once feels guilt over it); *Spoiler* Evelyn thinks about stealing money from Hester, but someone catches her *End of Spoiler*; Evelyn cheats/copies her answers from a classmate’s homework; Evelyn tears up notes from her teacher (to keep Hester from seeing them); Evelyn promises to do something, but crosses her fingers where the other person can’t see; *Spoilers* Towards the end, Evelyn realizes that she does want a “new mother” and wants it to be Hester; She apologizes to Hester for being awful to her & asks if she can call her “Mother” *End of Spoilers*; Mentions of deaths & grief (including parents, Hester for her late husband, & Callum for his late wife); Mentions of a wife passing away in child birth (a mention of a lot of blood); Mentions of possible deaths; Mentions of illnesses like influenza and pneumonia & the possibility of it turning deadly; Mentions of injuries, pain, concussions, & blood/bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of possible robbers & break-ins; Mentions of parents giving their children over to an orphan asylum because they can’t care for and/or feed them (including Callum); Mentions of children being given to a “poor farm” when not adopted; Mentions of an adopted boy running away from his new family who mistreats him & the parents feeling stuck with the boy; Mentions of an economic depression & jobs being hard to find; Mentions of lies, lying, & deception; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of bullies & kids being bullied; A few mentions of children being whipped for misbehaving; A few mentions of eavesdropping; A couple mentions of wars; A couple mentions of potential kidnapping; A couple mentions of fights; A couple mentions of someone robbing a bank (not true); A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of the death of a beloved dog; A mention of a possible murder (did not happen);
*Note: Evelyn doesn’t believe that she and her sister were supposed to be put on a train out west because their father would be coming for them, so she is rude and hateful to Hester & has the little sister act badly to keep from them getting separated; Hester’s parents died when she was young and she was sent to an orphan asylum with her little sister being taken away from her; Mentions of a car brand; Mentions of brand names (Kool-Aid, Campbell’s soup, & Frigidaire); Mentions of a book & fictional characters (Little Women); A mention of Macy’s.


Sexual Content- Two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; A handful of touches, embraces, nearness, & blushes (barely-above-not-detailed); Some young teen girls giggle and blush over a cute boy & tease Evelyn for his interest in her; Mentions of a young woman being pregnant out-of-wedlock, the couple being said to be having a “have-to wedding” because of the situation, & both sets of parents being very mad and not wanting the grandchild (The woman comments on her father being ashamed of her and that she is concerned about loving the baby when she hates the father; *Major Spoilers* Towards the end, Callum gives the money for the young woman to go to New York to stay with a friend until she gives birth; After the baby is born, she writes a letter to Hester to see if she will adopt him and Hester agrees *End of Spoilers*); Mentions of chaperones & reputations; Very light love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of Hester being unable to biologically carry a child.

-Hester Haak, age 38-39
-Callum Holbrook
-Evelyn Holbrook, age 13
-Scotty
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1931
353 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Three Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars

I’ve been very excited for this book for multiple reasons, but particularly because I knew this author would do a fantastic job with this plot and the characters. Which she definitely did! I’ve read many books by Kim Vogel Sawyer and while this newest book doesn’t quite beat out “The Librarian of Boone’s Hollow” and it’s sequel, I will gladly put this in the number three spot of my favorites of her books. The faith content was truly wonderful, the characters were either already lovable or had some character development that made them lovable, and I really enjoyed seeing all four view points in this book. In some books, four or more points of views can feel like too much, but it was very well-done for this story.

Set in the early 1930s, this book might be viewed as a bit of a rose-tinted glasses view of adoption, but I still enjoyed it so much. Hester’s heart was so admirable and I loved seeing her faith on-page and lived-out even through trials. Her heart’s desire for being a mother was precious and I greatly appreciate how clean this book was. I would have no hesitation recommending this book to 13/14+ unless the girl is very sensitive to books about orphans, but even then it could potentially be helpful seeing Evelyn’s POV. The romance was incredibly light and really didn’t even come into play until the very, very end.

On the end, I will note that while the ending wasn’t really rushed per say, the last couple of chapters move quickly with many months being caught-up. I was a little disappointed in this because the rest of the book moved at a slower pace throughout a couple months time and then the end covered over half a year in a quick fashion. It didn’t hinder my enjoyable or affect my rating, but I would have gladly had a longer book to see more about Hester and her growing family.

I think those that enjoy sweet found-family and family-centered historical books would probably really enjoy this one like I did. It reminded me at times of the “McAlister Family” duology by Carrie Turansky, so fans of those two books would probably enjoy this book too with the adoption threads and strong faith content.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...



*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Waterbrook Multnomah) for this honest review.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Where We Belong is one of those books I feel changed me for the better since finishing it. Particularly as a Christian woman, this book is full to the brim of examples and Godly advice that I can take and pertain to my own walk through life with Christ.

I would like to thank NetGalley, Penguin Random House Christian Publishing and Kim Vogel Sawyer for allowing access to this book for my honest review! Thank you so much!

This story is set within the Great Depression of the United States, specifically New York City and Kansas. The Great Depression was always a yearly unit within school so I was familiar with the dire straights that befell countless families during that dark time. Things got so bad financially that some families even had to make the heartbreaking decisions to adopt their children out, or send them to an orphanage. This may seem heartless now but more often than not, the children had a better chance of having a meal on their plates and a warm place to rest their heads in these places. Where We Belong is a story about some of those children and the caring and selfless act of the strangers who chose to take them in.

This book is written through multiple POV’s: Callum, Hester, Scotty and Evelyn. While this is more perspectives I am used to, I applaud Kim for writing it that way. This book deals with some heavy subject matters including what was mentioned in the previous paragraph. That being said, there are some decisions that are made by certain characters that I personally did not agree with. However because I read their own thoughts and feelings of deep regret, abandonment, and loneliness, I was able to have a deeper understanding and grace for everyone. If anything this book reminded me that it is easy to judge when you are not faced with these dilemmas yourself. I felt compassion for everyone and I personally feel as though I experienced the highs and lows along with them.

Along with the heavy Christian tones, my favorite theme of the story was of found family. The whole idea that splintered people can become whole once again when God leads them to the right people is absolutely beautiful. Some people follow willingly while others may feel as though they are being dragged, kicking and screaming. We can all truly relate I think. The healing that comes from giving yourself to the cause of others, and the unconditional love that can grow from the ashes is amazing and inspirational.

As mentioned, this book is full of Christian beliefs and ideals. There is bible reading, church going, prayer and traditional values. Personally, I found comfort and edification through these themes as I follow the same faith. There are struggles that I along with people close to me have dealt with, and it aways seems to work itself out when we give it up to God. We rely on Him to lead and direct our paths since we have such little understanding of the grand scheme of things. This book does a tremendous job with this lesson.

The romance in the story takes a major backseat, with the majority of the focus being on Callum’s and Hester’s relationship to the children. When we do begin to get some longing and attraction, it is done in a very respectful and mature way. That ending honestly made me smile and look at the imaginary camera in my room, Office style lol. So endearing!

At the end of the day, I would highly recommend this book to everyone. Even if you may not consider yourself Christian, I think the overall message could penetrate your heart just as easily. Kim has been added to my favorite authors list and I do plan on reading more of her books.

Once again thank you for allowing me to read and give my honest opinion of this beautiful book!