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The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy #3
When Love Returns
Riddled with doubt and lingering regrets, will Suzanne and Paul find strength in God to explore a second chance at love?
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.
Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?
Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.
Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?
Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2015
54 people are currently reading
526 people want to read
About the author
Kim Vogel Sawyer
79 books1,208 followersAward-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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 18, 2015
When Love Returns is the third and final book in the Zimmerman Restoration trilogy by Kim Vogel Sawyer. I was so excited to read the last book in the series! But it didn't feel like it was finished because of the daughter. Her story didn't seem to be completely told. Maybe there's going to be a spin-off of this trilogy?
Suzanne Zimmerman has moved back home, and right away is faced with the struggle of being around her birth daughter without being able to acknowledge her as her own. As she learns to cope, her daughter, Alexa, jolts her with her idea of going to look for her birth mother in Indianapolis. Reeling from shock as well as fear, Suzanne still realizes she has to let Alexa go. While Alexa is gone, Suzanne becomes closer to her old boyfriend, Paul. Will they finally be able to reconcile?
I really liked the closeness between mother and daughter even while the daughter was searching for her birth mother. They truly cared and respected each other. It was very refreshing to read! Plus, it was a great idea to have Alexa go looking for her birth mother and get some closure from that while Suzanne and her birth daughter find each other, too.
I really enjoyed this book, but I really wanted to hear more about Alexa and that guy from the second book. It seemed forgotten in the third book. She did see him for a little bit, but it was so quick and rushed. I keep hoping there's going to be another book about Alexa.... :-)
I was given this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.
Suzanne Zimmerman has moved back home, and right away is faced with the struggle of being around her birth daughter without being able to acknowledge her as her own. As she learns to cope, her daughter, Alexa, jolts her with her idea of going to look for her birth mother in Indianapolis. Reeling from shock as well as fear, Suzanne still realizes she has to let Alexa go. While Alexa is gone, Suzanne becomes closer to her old boyfriend, Paul. Will they finally be able to reconcile?
I really liked the closeness between mother and daughter even while the daughter was searching for her birth mother. They truly cared and respected each other. It was very refreshing to read! Plus, it was a great idea to have Alexa go looking for her birth mother and get some closure from that while Suzanne and her birth daughter find each other, too.
I really enjoyed this book, but I really wanted to hear more about Alexa and that guy from the second book. It seemed forgotten in the third book. She did see him for a little bit, but it was so quick and rushed. I keep hoping there's going to be another book about Alexa.... :-)
I was given this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2019
This is a great ending to a very interesting series. Secrets of the past are revealed and dealt with. Although set in Amish/Mennonite background there are plenty of modern issues that come up. I appreciated how friends helped the characters deal with difficult situations and pointed toward solutions. I definitely recommend this author and series.
November 25, 2015
Kim Vogel Sawyer in her new book “When Love Returns” Book Three in The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy published by Waterbrook Press continues the story of Alexa Zimmerman.
From the back cover: Riddled with doubt and lingering regrets, will Suzanne and Paul find strength in God to explore a second chance at love?
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.
Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?
Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends–and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
This is the third book in The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. Ms. Sawyer clearly knows how to write a trilogy: Book One introduced the characters and the story line, Book Two moved the story along dramatically but brought the characters to a low point and now here in Book Three we are given the epic conclusion. And I do mean epic. This is quite a story. The reason for it being so interesting is the characters that Ms. Sawyer has created. This is a book about faith, family and forgiveness. There is a reason why it is called The Restoration Trilogy and it is so much fun to get to that point. Get ready for a very interesting read that will keep you flipping pages. I am sorry that this series is ending but I am looking forward to the next book from the talented pen of Ms. Sawyer.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Riddled with doubt and lingering regrets, will Suzanne and Paul find strength in God to explore a second chance at love?
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.
Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?
Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends–and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
This is the third book in The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. Ms. Sawyer clearly knows how to write a trilogy: Book One introduced the characters and the story line, Book Two moved the story along dramatically but brought the characters to a low point and now here in Book Three we are given the epic conclusion. And I do mean epic. This is quite a story. The reason for it being so interesting is the characters that Ms. Sawyer has created. This is a book about faith, family and forgiveness. There is a reason why it is called The Restoration Trilogy and it is so much fun to get to that point. Get ready for a very interesting read that will keep you flipping pages. I am sorry that this series is ending but I am looking forward to the next book from the talented pen of Ms. Sawyer.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 21, 2017
This concludes The Zimmerman Restoration series. I really enjoyed it. I am a big fan of this author. I always feel satisfaction when I finish one of her stories. I also feel encouraged and blessed. Her stories are always hopeful with wonderful developed characters. From the first book in the series to the last there is a steady flow that kept me entertained and turning each page with anticipation. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys good clean fiction.
April 13, 2024
When Love Returns (The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy #3)
by Kim Vogel Sawyer
2 stars
I hardly know where to start with this book. There is a review that I would like to write, and then I remember that this author could be my Christian sister. I will try to start gently and finish the same way.
I am not a fan of this trilogy. It provoked me past my reasonable senses and patience. I thought that what Paul had done to Suzanne was inexcusable; however, he got off scot-free. Suzanne went past proper boundaries, but she was coerced, manipulated, and lied to by Paul. Her initial desire was to not cross that line. He did not stop until he got what he wanted.
At the end of the trilogy, it was Suzanne who was standing before the Council, and Paul did not even have to attend. Suzanne paid an exorbitant price for the liberty that Paul took.
It was Suzanne’s family that suffered for Paul’s breach. He did not even offer an apology. He lived a respectable life, untouched.
I take exception to the fact that the author wrote the marriage between these two. It feels wrong on every level for Suzanne to marry her perpetrator. If he had truly owned it, that would have been a different story.
It also provokes good sense to know that Suzanne got away with the kidnapping.
I find this author’s logic to be off, whether it is with one character or another, so it’s hard for me to enjoy her books when there is so much slanting of justice. I kept hoping that around the next corner, there would be some good common sense, but I was constantly disappointed. It was almost as if the very thing that should not happen did, and the logic that ensued was warped. Even the logic in the questions at the back of the book seemed skewed.
I wish this author well, but I don’t think that I will be subjecting myself to the overriding frustration that I experienced in this trilogy in her other works.
by Kim Vogel Sawyer
2 stars
I hardly know where to start with this book. There is a review that I would like to write, and then I remember that this author could be my Christian sister. I will try to start gently and finish the same way.
I am not a fan of this trilogy. It provoked me past my reasonable senses and patience. I thought that what Paul had done to Suzanne was inexcusable; however, he got off scot-free. Suzanne went past proper boundaries, but she was coerced, manipulated, and lied to by Paul. Her initial desire was to not cross that line. He did not stop until he got what he wanted.
At the end of the trilogy, it was Suzanne who was standing before the Council, and Paul did not even have to attend. Suzanne paid an exorbitant price for the liberty that Paul took.
It was Suzanne’s family that suffered for Paul’s breach. He did not even offer an apology. He lived a respectable life, untouched.
I take exception to the fact that the author wrote the marriage between these two. It feels wrong on every level for Suzanne to marry her perpetrator. If he had truly owned it, that would have been a different story.
It also provokes good sense to know that Suzanne got away with the kidnapping.
I find this author’s logic to be off, whether it is with one character or another, so it’s hard for me to enjoy her books when there is so much slanting of justice. I kept hoping that around the next corner, there would be some good common sense, but I was constantly disappointed. It was almost as if the very thing that should not happen did, and the logic that ensued was warped. Even the logic in the questions at the back of the book seemed skewed.
I wish this author well, but I don’t think that I will be subjecting myself to the overriding frustration that I experienced in this trilogy in her other works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2016
Stunning conclusion to The Zimmerman Restoration trilogy but, unlike the first two books, I really think When Love Returns will make more of an impact if you've read When Mercy Rains and When Grace Sings first.
This is a beautiful second chance love story with plenty of grit and emotional angst to leave a reader breathless. Suzanne and Paul have waited two decades to be reunited and there is all the delicious uncertainty, not to mention mistakes from their past, to over come. A lot for a romance lover to seek her teeth into.
But love returns in other unexpected ways as well -- like Alexa's quest to discover the mother who abandoned her at birth. It's an exceptional story thread -- real and raw and gutsy. Sawyer explores both sides of the volatile issue with compassion and grace and it made a powerful impact on me.
A host of beautifully flawed secondary characters bring a rich depth to this compelling novel. Somehow, they all come together for the good of the overall theme. In a way, this book is about choices -- whether to judge and condemn or forgive and accept. It's as simple...and complicated...as that.
A truly incredible read.
This is a beautiful second chance love story with plenty of grit and emotional angst to leave a reader breathless. Suzanne and Paul have waited two decades to be reunited and there is all the delicious uncertainty, not to mention mistakes from their past, to over come. A lot for a romance lover to seek her teeth into.
But love returns in other unexpected ways as well -- like Alexa's quest to discover the mother who abandoned her at birth. It's an exceptional story thread -- real and raw and gutsy. Sawyer explores both sides of the volatile issue with compassion and grace and it made a powerful impact on me.
A host of beautifully flawed secondary characters bring a rich depth to this compelling novel. Somehow, they all come together for the good of the overall theme. In a way, this book is about choices -- whether to judge and condemn or forgive and accept. It's as simple...and complicated...as that.
A truly incredible read.
September 10, 2019
Reviewed by Tammy
Book provided by NetGalley
Kim Vogel Sawyer writes inspirational Christian fiction. Sawyer writes fiction because “a story can draw one in and make an impact”. When Love Returns is book three of The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. I have read the first two books and could not wait to find out how the series ended. This book could be a stand-alone novel but I would recommend reading the first two stories also.
In When Love Returns , Alexa Zimmerman sets out on a journey to Indiana in search of her birth mother, Meanwhile, her mother, Suzanne Zimmerman, returns home to Arborville, Kansas, only to find herself attracted to her old boyfriend, Paul Aldrich. There are also a few more secondary stories that tie into the main plot. The amount of secondary characters may be overwhelming at first if this is the first book of the trilogy you have read. The secondary characters of Linda and Tom Denning are enjoyable. Not many African American characters are in Amish/Mennonite fiction so it was a nice change to get to know the Dennings in this novel.
I did not realize that this book would be so focused on adoption and how it can affect those involved in the process. I enjoyed seeing the many viewpoints of those who are part of an adoption. I never really thought about all the feelings that happen when a child is given up. Sawyer did a good job of showing the minds and actions of the child, the birth parents, the adoptive family, and more. I enjoyed this novel. I am glad the characters got their happily ever after that started way back in the first book of this series. If you are looking for a book about the love of family and God I would recommend reading this story.
Book provided by NetGalley
Kim Vogel Sawyer writes inspirational Christian fiction. Sawyer writes fiction because “a story can draw one in and make an impact”. When Love Returns is book three of The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. I have read the first two books and could not wait to find out how the series ended. This book could be a stand-alone novel but I would recommend reading the first two stories also.
In When Love Returns , Alexa Zimmerman sets out on a journey to Indiana in search of her birth mother, Meanwhile, her mother, Suzanne Zimmerman, returns home to Arborville, Kansas, only to find herself attracted to her old boyfriend, Paul Aldrich. There are also a few more secondary stories that tie into the main plot. The amount of secondary characters may be overwhelming at first if this is the first book of the trilogy you have read. The secondary characters of Linda and Tom Denning are enjoyable. Not many African American characters are in Amish/Mennonite fiction so it was a nice change to get to know the Dennings in this novel.
I did not realize that this book would be so focused on adoption and how it can affect those involved in the process. I enjoyed seeing the many viewpoints of those who are part of an adoption. I never really thought about all the feelings that happen when a child is given up. Sawyer did a good job of showing the minds and actions of the child, the birth parents, the adoptive family, and more. I enjoyed this novel. I am glad the characters got their happily ever after that started way back in the first book of this series. If you are looking for a book about the love of family and God I would recommend reading this story.
January 28, 2024
Finally! My very first Kim Vogel Sawyer story! WHEN LOVE RETURNS has been sitting on my Netgalley shelf for too many years. I’m kicking myself for waiting so long to read this heart breaking story. Suzanne Zimmerman returns to her families Old Order Mennonite community, to take care of her mother. She wasn’t there to deal with secrets from the past. Before she knows it, questions are raised about Suzanne’s real daughter. Her daughter, the bride-to-be doesn’t know of Suzanne as anything else but cousin Suzy. And with Alexa, her adopted daughter, wishing to know more about her own biological mother, Suzanne knows its time to tell all the secrets, she tried so hard to hide. Hang on tight readers for one crazy and bumpy ride.
WHEN LOVE RETURNS is the conclusion of a trilogy but can be read as a stand alone just fine. WHEN LOVE RETURNS is one of those books you keep reading into the night and you just can’t put it down. A wonderful story showing life is full of mistakes and forgiveness. There were several times I found myself desperately wanting to keep reading, to find out what would happen next, but I was afraid to turn the page, scared of what was going to happen to these characters. Kim Vogel Sawyer really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author. Well done Ms. Sawyer, you have a new fan.
WHEN LOVE RETURNS deals with forgiveness and family relationships…neither are ever easy to reconcile. Kim Vogel Sawyer does an excellent job of writing about a mother’s heart, even as she wants forgiveness for past sins, and about a daughter’s heart as she also seeks answers and reconciliation. WHEN LOVE RETURNS is a fabulous read of faith, family and forgiveness. Kim Vogel Sawyer hooks readers in the lives of the Zimmerman family. Their story is told from multiple points of view, and I really enjoy this type of storytelling. I grew to love this family and all of these characters. The tension in WHEN LOVE RETURNS is pretty thick at times, because of the situation with the adoptions, with Anna Grace not knowing that her real parents are right there in front of her, and Alexa wanting to find her real mother. You are not going to want to stop once you start reading, trust me!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
WHEN LOVE RETURNS is the conclusion of a trilogy but can be read as a stand alone just fine. WHEN LOVE RETURNS is one of those books you keep reading into the night and you just can’t put it down. A wonderful story showing life is full of mistakes and forgiveness. There were several times I found myself desperately wanting to keep reading, to find out what would happen next, but I was afraid to turn the page, scared of what was going to happen to these characters. Kim Vogel Sawyer really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author. Well done Ms. Sawyer, you have a new fan.
WHEN LOVE RETURNS deals with forgiveness and family relationships…neither are ever easy to reconcile. Kim Vogel Sawyer does an excellent job of writing about a mother’s heart, even as she wants forgiveness for past sins, and about a daughter’s heart as she also seeks answers and reconciliation. WHEN LOVE RETURNS is a fabulous read of faith, family and forgiveness. Kim Vogel Sawyer hooks readers in the lives of the Zimmerman family. Their story is told from multiple points of view, and I really enjoy this type of storytelling. I grew to love this family and all of these characters. The tension in WHEN LOVE RETURNS is pretty thick at times, because of the situation with the adoptions, with Anna Grace not knowing that her real parents are right there in front of her, and Alexa wanting to find her real mother. You are not going to want to stop once you start reading, trust me!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 12, 2024
The final book of a trilogy. I enjoyed this series and each book had me coming back for more. While the story is quite predictable with small twists that are generally easily figured out, it still was not disappointing. My only criticism is that by the third book I was tired of reading about Suzy’s pain and heartache. While I’m sure it’s what a grieving mother would experience in the same situation, I just felt it was overdone for the book. Talking about it so much actually decreased the intensity to me, like a form of desensitization. Overall, I’d recommend the series if you want a light and easy read with a clean scandalous twist, unless you’re Mennonite.
September 8, 2022
The 📗 Title Perfectly Describes This Story!
I ❤d 📖ing this 📗, "When Love Returns" by Kim Vogel Sawyer. It's provides the perfect ending to "The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy" 📚! To understand this Story, you need to 📖 the Series in chronological order.
If more Christian Denominations provided the close community loving ties and accountability, as represented in this Series, by the Old Order Mennonites, there would be many more Restorations happening in our Churches!
Does Alexa find her birth-mom? How does Grace-Anna finally learn that Paul and Suzanne are her birth-parents? How does Suzanne/Suzy and Paul's 💗 relationship turned into a Lifetime 💞? How does God Restore all these Relationships? I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Outstanding, Engrossing, Poignant, Faith-Filled 📗, to find out! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I ❤d 📖ing this 📗, "When Love Returns" by Kim Vogel Sawyer. It's provides the perfect ending to "The Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy" 📚! To understand this Story, you need to 📖 the Series in chronological order.
If more Christian Denominations provided the close community loving ties and accountability, as represented in this Series, by the Old Order Mennonites, there would be many more Restorations happening in our Churches!
Does Alexa find her birth-mom? How does Grace-Anna finally learn that Paul and Suzanne are her birth-parents? How does Suzanne/Suzy and Paul's 💗 relationship turned into a Lifetime 💞? How does God Restore all these Relationships? I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Outstanding, Engrossing, Poignant, Faith-Filled 📗, to find out! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 23, 2019
What a wonderful ending to this amazing series. This book had me crying several times, and the finale was perfect. The narrator is fantastic as well. So glad I found these books. Please understand they are not stand alone novels and read them in order. I’m confident you will enjoy this series as much as I did. Happy reading/listening!
August 24, 2017
Love, love, love this trilogy. This was the final book but I could have gone on and on with these families. I feel attached and don’t want to leave them. There are a lot of “I wonder what happens to’s” I will miss them. P.S. recommend reading the trilogy in order.
December 21, 2019
This book was amazing. The power of prayer and forgiveness are very much present. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you netgalley and Easterbrook for allowing me to read this titlefor an honest review.
Thank you netgalley and Easterbrook for allowing me to read this titlefor an honest review.
March 6, 2023
A rather complicated story told in alternating chapters. An girl gives up a baby at an unwed mother’s home.An Amish girl drops off a baby outside the home and the first girl takes the baby. the babies are both 20 years old and looking for their birth mothers.
March 17, 2018
Beautiful!!!
May 4, 2018
This the 3rd and last of The Zimmerman Restoration series - Great story of a 2nd chance at love - strong faith - family - true understanding - and just a fast clean read.
April 7, 2021
I loved this trilogy about a Mennonite family in Kansas. A good story that flows well through all three books and has a satisfying (happy) conclusion.
June 12, 2021
I enjoyed the ending of this series, but I did think this story dragged on a bit.
Will be looking for more from this author!
Will be looking for more from this author!
November 23, 2022
amazing
I’m amazed at how I have enjoyed these books. Such wholesome stories. I will continue reading about the Mennonite traditions.
I’m amazed at how I have enjoyed these books. Such wholesome stories. I will continue reading about the Mennonite traditions.
June 17, 2023
Best of the series!
October 27, 2023
I loved this series, even though I accidentally read them out of order! It didn't spoil the fun. I would love to see a book 4, to be honest!
September 26, 2024
v ery good book very good series
June 24, 2025
Enjoyed the characters and their development. The ending of the book felt unfinished to me.
January 1, 2016
When Love Returns by Kim Vogel Sawyer is the third book in the Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. Cynthia Allgood had a baby when she was a teenager. The day after she gave birth she left the baby behind the Indianapolis Home for Unwed Mothers. Twenty years later her husband is giving her the opportunity to find her daughter. He has put down a retainer on Owen Mallory, a private investigator. Will finding her daughter be a good thing for Cynthia?
Alexa Zimmerman is enjoying life in Arborville, Kansas with her mother (Suzanne), grandmother, and her other relations (she did not about her extended family until recently). But Alexa would like to know about her biological parents. Alexa decides to take a break during the slow season for the Grace Notes Bed and Breakfast (she started it on her grandmother’s farm). Alexa goes back to Indiana with Tom and Linda Denning (friends of Suzanne and Alexa’s who came to visit for Christmas). Will Alexa be able to find the answers she is seeking?
Suzanne is staying in Arborville. She has decided not to go back to Indiana to her old life. She is happy to be back with her family. It is hard, though, being near the daughter she gave away especially with Anna Grace’s wedding approaching. Suzanne was forced (by her mother) to give up Anna Grace twenty years ago. Will Anna Grace ever want to know the truth about her birth parents? Suzanne spending more time with Paul Aldrich (her teenage love and the father of Anna Grace). Can they have a relationship? Suzanne will have to join the Old Order Mennonite faith in order to be with Paul. Is she willing to join the faith and is this what God wants for her? Will there be a happily ever after for Suzanne and Paul?
When Love Returns is not a stand-alone novel. You need to read the first two books in The Zimmerman Restoration trilogy or you will not understand everything going on in the book. When Love Returns is well written and you will not want to put it down (I just loved it). I believe this was my favorite book out of all three of them. One thing I did not understand, though, is why Alexa was told that Suzanne was not her real mother (this is not a spoiler). Suzanne had a birth certificate for her daughter that lists her as mother. Why did Suzanne tell Alexa that she was not her daughter? I thought this was confusing. Another odd note is the information the private investigator obtains at the Indianapolis Home for Unwed Mothers. I do not believe he would be able to get this type of information (name of a former resident) by just talking with the director. Overall, When Love Returns is a page turner. It is a fitting end to the trilogy. I love how the author wrapped up all the story lines. I give When Love Returns 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of When Love Returns from Blogging for Books (and the publisher) in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
Alexa Zimmerman is enjoying life in Arborville, Kansas with her mother (Suzanne), grandmother, and her other relations (she did not about her extended family until recently). But Alexa would like to know about her biological parents. Alexa decides to take a break during the slow season for the Grace Notes Bed and Breakfast (she started it on her grandmother’s farm). Alexa goes back to Indiana with Tom and Linda Denning (friends of Suzanne and Alexa’s who came to visit for Christmas). Will Alexa be able to find the answers she is seeking?
Suzanne is staying in Arborville. She has decided not to go back to Indiana to her old life. She is happy to be back with her family. It is hard, though, being near the daughter she gave away especially with Anna Grace’s wedding approaching. Suzanne was forced (by her mother) to give up Anna Grace twenty years ago. Will Anna Grace ever want to know the truth about her birth parents? Suzanne spending more time with Paul Aldrich (her teenage love and the father of Anna Grace). Can they have a relationship? Suzanne will have to join the Old Order Mennonite faith in order to be with Paul. Is she willing to join the faith and is this what God wants for her? Will there be a happily ever after for Suzanne and Paul?
When Love Returns is not a stand-alone novel. You need to read the first two books in The Zimmerman Restoration trilogy or you will not understand everything going on in the book. When Love Returns is well written and you will not want to put it down (I just loved it). I believe this was my favorite book out of all three of them. One thing I did not understand, though, is why Alexa was told that Suzanne was not her real mother (this is not a spoiler). Suzanne had a birth certificate for her daughter that lists her as mother. Why did Suzanne tell Alexa that she was not her daughter? I thought this was confusing. Another odd note is the information the private investigator obtains at the Indianapolis Home for Unwed Mothers. I do not believe he would be able to get this type of information (name of a former resident) by just talking with the director. Overall, When Love Returns is a page turner. It is a fitting end to the trilogy. I love how the author wrapped up all the story lines. I give When Love Returns 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of When Love Returns from Blogging for Books (and the publisher) in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
December 17, 2015
About the Book:
Riddled with doubt and lingering regrets, will Suzanne and Paul find strength in God to explore a second chance at love?
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.
Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?
Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
My Review:
Suzanne Zimmerman returned to her families Old Order Mennonite community, to take care of her mother. Not deal with past secrets. But before she knows it questions are raised about Suzanne’s real daughter. Her daughter, the bride-to-be doesn’t know of Suzanne as anything else but cousin Suzy. And with Alexa, her adopted daughter, wishing to know more about her own biological mother, Suzanne knows its time to tell all the secrets, she tried so hard to hide.
As the wedding draws near, Suzanne finds herself in the midst of her past love and the father of her biological child, Paul. Paul too has a child and many past mistakes. But still after so many years, and past hurts, they find themselves drawn to each other. Soon Alexa decides to leave for Indianapolis with friends, in search of her birth parents. With so much going wrong around her, Suzanne must trust that God has a big plan for them all, even if she isn’t ready for it.
When Love Returns is book three in the Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. This novel was a wonderful read and I found it to be an amazing addition to this series. I cant wait till I can read more of this authors books. She definitely has a way with words.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Riddled with doubt and lingering regrets, will Suzanne and Paul find strength in God to explore a second chance at love?
It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.
Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?
Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?
My Review:
Suzanne Zimmerman returned to her families Old Order Mennonite community, to take care of her mother. Not deal with past secrets. But before she knows it questions are raised about Suzanne’s real daughter. Her daughter, the bride-to-be doesn’t know of Suzanne as anything else but cousin Suzy. And with Alexa, her adopted daughter, wishing to know more about her own biological mother, Suzanne knows its time to tell all the secrets, she tried so hard to hide.
As the wedding draws near, Suzanne finds herself in the midst of her past love and the father of her biological child, Paul. Paul too has a child and many past mistakes. But still after so many years, and past hurts, they find themselves drawn to each other. Soon Alexa decides to leave for Indianapolis with friends, in search of her birth parents. With so much going wrong around her, Suzanne must trust that God has a big plan for them all, even if she isn’t ready for it.
When Love Returns is book three in the Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. This novel was a wonderful read and I found it to be an amazing addition to this series. I cant wait till I can read more of this authors books. She definitely has a way with words.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
January 16, 2016
This book, 3rd installment of THE ZIMMERMAN RESTORATION TRILOGY is the continuing story of Alexa Zimmerman. The author wroth a wonderful book about faith, forgiveness and family. I found myself turning the pages as fast as I could. I didn't read the first two books, but plan to. The introduction of characters and background are in those books. In book 3, new characters are introduced. The first book is WHEN MERCY RAINS and the second is WHEN GRACE SINGS.The reader follows the lives of the Zimmerman family and a few friends. The author does a great job of placing the reader right in the story. As though, the reader is one of the characters.There are many issue to make you think in these books, adoption, unwed mothers, redemption, forgiving others and ourselves. You get to meet the mothers of the babies. This book will not only put your faith to work but will have your heart working overtime as well. Ms. Sawyer shows how it often takes time and patience to work through some issues and that when we sin, we not only affect ourselves but so many others in the process. The author shows how it takes strength to stand up for what you have done. I think one of the important lessons of this series is, praying alone and together. When you pray together, a bond develops within the group praying. I like the way the author ties everything from the other two books into this third book. So many lessons to learn and so many situations to reflect on. Ms. Sawyer never fails to deliver. I can't wait to read Book One and Book Two. A very lovely book. Is a second chance in the future?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging For Books for my unbiased view of the book. No other compensation took place.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging For Books for my unbiased view of the book. No other compensation took place.
December 7, 2015
This is the third book in the author's 'Restoration Series'. I read Book Two and enjoyed it very much. Chapter One of this book is a little confusing until facts from the past stories are presented to bring readers up to date.
There are two major storylines in this book. One involves Suzanne Zimmerman, a single mother of an adult daughter, in her late thirties who was raised in an Old Order Mennonite community in Kansas. The other storyline involves a married mother of two, Cynthia Algood, who lives in Indianapolis.
Both women made choices two decades ago which they've come to regret greatly. I won't go into specifics here because I don't want to ruin the story for you. The bad decisions these two women made in their younger years have caused them to lie, harbor deep secrets, and carry heavy burdens throughout their adult years.
Through much soul-searching, the sharing of their deepest feelings, confessing their previous mistakes to their loved ones, and seeking guidance from God the women are finally able to make peace with themselves, those close to them, and God.
The author's writing style is warm and inviting. Her characters are well-developed and interesting. The closing few chapters are the most engaging in the book. I enjoyed the recipes she included at the end of the book. Recommended for fans of inspirational fiction and romance and clean fiction.
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NOTE FROM REVIEWER: I received a paperback copy of this book from Blogging for Books to read for this review. I was not compensated for posting my review here or on any other site.
January 4, 2016
I liked this book. It was ok. I've read some books by Kim that were better than this. To me, it just kept going on and on and not getting anywhere.
I can however; relate to this story somewhat. I too want to find my birth mom but, only if it's God's will. In my most recent search I found I two other sisters all of us were by different dads.
I felt like I would have suffocated not being able to tell my real daughter who I was and her living that close to me. It was mean of Suzannes mother to do that to her so I can see why she would feel the need to do what she did. At least Alexa and I had loving homes to grow up in. That the good Lord for that
I also feel that if Glen had really felt the way he did, he shouldn't have ever given her the gift. I also think that Cynthia shouldn't have shut her family out. I know this is easier said than done.
There is hypocrisy every where. Sadly even in churches. I found this out the hard way. People are going to talk no matter what you do or say.
I'm proud of Suzanne letting her daughter going to find out who she really is. I often wonder that if I'd have been raised by my birth mom how I would have turned out today. Would I know God the way I do now?
It would be interesting to see if Alexa goes and stays with her birth mom or the woman who raised her..Kim will u continue this story or write another series?
I can however; relate to this story somewhat. I too want to find my birth mom but, only if it's God's will. In my most recent search I found I two other sisters all of us were by different dads.
I felt like I would have suffocated not being able to tell my real daughter who I was and her living that close to me. It was mean of Suzannes mother to do that to her so I can see why she would feel the need to do what she did. At least Alexa and I had loving homes to grow up in. That the good Lord for that
I also feel that if Glen had really felt the way he did, he shouldn't have ever given her the gift. I also think that Cynthia shouldn't have shut her family out. I know this is easier said than done.
There is hypocrisy every where. Sadly even in churches. I found this out the hard way. People are going to talk no matter what you do or say.
I'm proud of Suzanne letting her daughter going to find out who she really is. I often wonder that if I'd have been raised by my birth mom how I would have turned out today. Would I know God the way I do now?
It would be interesting to see if Alexa goes and stays with her birth mom or the woman who raised her..Kim will u continue this story or write another series?
December 15, 2015
When Love Returns is an emotionally charged, wonderful ending to the Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy. I have enjoyed all three of the books in this series. These stories really do depend on each other. So, I would recommend reading them in order.
I loved the way the author handled the complicated issues in this book. My favorite story line was the one that played out between Suzanne and Paul, especially as I have been desperately wanting to see what would happen between them since book one. It was very satisfying.
There are a couple of story lines to follow that take place in Indianapolis and deal with Alexa’s background. Although painful emotions wrought havoc in Alexa’s life and in the lives of another family living in Indianapolis, it was so very interesting to watch it all play out and see what happened.
I definitely recommend this book to fans of Amish and Mennonite fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved the way the author handled the complicated issues in this book. My favorite story line was the one that played out between Suzanne and Paul, especially as I have been desperately wanting to see what would happen between them since book one. It was very satisfying.
There are a couple of story lines to follow that take place in Indianapolis and deal with Alexa’s background. Although painful emotions wrought havoc in Alexa’s life and in the lives of another family living in Indianapolis, it was so very interesting to watch it all play out and see what happened.
I definitely recommend this book to fans of Amish and Mennonite fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
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