What do you think?
Rate this book
Persimmon Hollow Legacy #1
At Home in Persimmon Hollow
At Home in Persimmon Hollow is the first book in a series chronicling the world of Agnes Foster and the people of frontier-era Florida. In 1886, Agnes Foster is forced to leave the Catholic orphanage in New York where she grew up to start a new life as a teacher in Persimmon Hollow, Florida, a town she has only ever seen in a newspaper ad. With nothing but her strong Catholic faith to sustain her, she leaves behind the only home she’s ever known and the little girl she hopes to adopt, and encounters a wild and beautiful new landscape, and a town full of hardworking, faith-filled people. She also meets the difficult, yet handsome and hard-to-ignore Seth Taylor, a man whose heart has been hardened to God after a terrible loss. Just as Agnes starts to feel Persimmon Hollow could be a good home for her and her daughter, and that Seth could be her love, tragedy strikes in the form of a trio of evil men from both their pasts, intent on doing them more harm. Will their fragile new love survive? Will Seth return to his faith? Can Agnes finally escape her dark past and find a bright new future?
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 17, 2015
2 people are currently reading
630 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Bauer
9 books62 followersMy idea of a perfect day always includes a book, or three, including one with a happy ending. I write Catholic historical romance novels and novellas set in pioneer Florida, and non-romance short stories that explore the importance of community, connection and human dignity.
I was born and raised in New York City, but found a small-town haven in Florida many years ago. I was a homebody even before the pandemic. I love to spend time at home with my husband, spoil my cats, keep tabs on my far-flung extended family and get out into the garden. Although the plants question my dedication.
I share my space-geek husband’s enthusiasm for our final frontier. That helps me remember I don't live in the 19th century Florida setting of my novels or the diaries and biographies I love to read about people from past eras.
And I'm a needlework nerd. I quilt, crochet and sew clothing at a pace that qualifies me for the slow-life movement. Among my treasures is my grandmother's 1919 Singer treadle sewing machine. I'm working on my treadling skills but still have a long way to go.
I was born and raised in New York City, but found a small-town haven in Florida many years ago. I was a homebody even before the pandemic. I love to spend time at home with my husband, spoil my cats, keep tabs on my far-flung extended family and get out into the garden. Although the plants question my dedication.
I share my space-geek husband’s enthusiasm for our final frontier. That helps me remember I don't live in the 19th century Florida setting of my novels or the diaries and biographies I love to read about people from past eras.
And I'm a needlework nerd. I quilt, crochet and sew clothing at a pace that qualifies me for the slow-life movement. Among my treasures is my grandmother's 1919 Singer treadle sewing machine. I'm working on my treadling skills but still have a long way to go.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 23, 2015
This book is a treat. It seamlessly intertwines lessons of faith with life in early Florida. As a Florida native, this book took me back to my childhood, playing in the orange groves and having to shower before coming in to eat. Well done, and can't wait to read the next book!
July 22, 2015
At Home in Persimmon Hollow by Gerri Bauer is a Christian romance novel. The book is set in Persimmon Hollow, Florida in 1886. Agnes Foster was raised in St. Isidore’s Home (for orphans) by nuns since she was left on their doorstep as a baby. Due to pressure from the patrons of the home (because of the incident with Rufus Smith), Agnes has accepted a teaching position at Persimmon Hollow Academy in Persimmon Hollow, Florida. She arrives in town with Billy Taylor (age 12). Agnes agreed to keep an eye on Billy when he boarded in Jacksonville (his aunt put him on the train). Billy is going to stay with his Uncle Seth Taylor.
Seth Taylor is waiting at the station for Billy to arrive. Seth is not the greatest welcoming committee (the death of his brother and sister-in-law as well as the railroad people trying to get his land through unscrupulous means). The Alloway’s and other townspeople are very happy to see Agnes. Agnes is to stay with Eunice and Fanny Alloway (they are her bosses at the Academy as well). Agnes is immediately drawn into life in Persimmon Hollow when there is a death in town. Everyone joins in to help with the funeral arrangements (building the coffin, digging the grave, gathering flowers, food).
Over time Seth starts to mellow as he spends more time with Agnes. Seth is drawn to Agnes and her positive outlook on life (her helpful nature and a scripture quote for every occasion). Seth starts rejoining life in town (he has mostly kept to himself for the last ten years). The only problem is Barrel and Lester Little. They are trying to get Seth to sell his land to the railroad and will do whatever it takes to get what they want.
Agnes’ trouble follows her to Persimmon Hollow. She has been trying to get away from Rufus Smith. Rufus Smith is a nasty man who owns a brothel. He is determined to get Agnes (using illegal methods). When he also tries to get Polly Todd (Agnes has raised her since she first came to the St. Isidore’s), Polly is sent to Persimmon Hollow. Unfortunately, Rufus tracks down Agnes and Polly. Rufus joins up with Lester Little and Barrel (nothing worse than three bad people joining together). The town will come together to help Seth, Agnes, and Polly.
At Home in Persimmon Hollow is a cute story, but it is very preachy. I enjoy reading Christian fiction, but when a book contains more scripture than story, it is too much. There are some good characters in the story and a nice setting. I just thought that Agnes came across as very pious. Hearing the descriptions of the orange groves reminded me of when I first came to Florida. We lived in Lakeland at the time and there were miles of citrus groves (our first home in Lakeland was built in a citrus grove). I give At Home in Persimmon Hollow 3 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of At Home in Persimmon Hollow from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
Seth Taylor is waiting at the station for Billy to arrive. Seth is not the greatest welcoming committee (the death of his brother and sister-in-law as well as the railroad people trying to get his land through unscrupulous means). The Alloway’s and other townspeople are very happy to see Agnes. Agnes is to stay with Eunice and Fanny Alloway (they are her bosses at the Academy as well). Agnes is immediately drawn into life in Persimmon Hollow when there is a death in town. Everyone joins in to help with the funeral arrangements (building the coffin, digging the grave, gathering flowers, food).
Over time Seth starts to mellow as he spends more time with Agnes. Seth is drawn to Agnes and her positive outlook on life (her helpful nature and a scripture quote for every occasion). Seth starts rejoining life in town (he has mostly kept to himself for the last ten years). The only problem is Barrel and Lester Little. They are trying to get Seth to sell his land to the railroad and will do whatever it takes to get what they want.
Agnes’ trouble follows her to Persimmon Hollow. She has been trying to get away from Rufus Smith. Rufus Smith is a nasty man who owns a brothel. He is determined to get Agnes (using illegal methods). When he also tries to get Polly Todd (Agnes has raised her since she first came to the St. Isidore’s), Polly is sent to Persimmon Hollow. Unfortunately, Rufus tracks down Agnes and Polly. Rufus joins up with Lester Little and Barrel (nothing worse than three bad people joining together). The town will come together to help Seth, Agnes, and Polly.
At Home in Persimmon Hollow is a cute story, but it is very preachy. I enjoy reading Christian fiction, but when a book contains more scripture than story, it is too much. There are some good characters in the story and a nice setting. I just thought that Agnes came across as very pious. Hearing the descriptions of the orange groves reminded me of when I first came to Florida. We lived in Lakeland at the time and there were miles of citrus groves (our first home in Lakeland was built in a citrus grove). I give At Home in Persimmon Hollow 3 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of At Home in Persimmon Hollow from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
April 28, 2017
The Persimmon Hollow setting was unique and refreshing, as in I could almost taste the fresh citrus! Southern Florida isn't someplace I'd ever considered to be part of the American frontier.
I also particularly enjoyed reading about Catholic characters, who are under-represented in Christian fiction. Agnes's faith and practices were well-integrated into her character (although she could spout more verses than about anyone I know).
At Home in Persimmon Hollow is a sweet and simple story. It reminded me of the "Little House on the Prairie" TV series. Community and faith are woven throughout the locals' lives. Kids are cute and spunky. The villains are somewhat bumbling. The outcome is predictable but enjoyable.
All in all, a well-written, light romantic read with a unique bit of history.
I also particularly enjoyed reading about Catholic characters, who are under-represented in Christian fiction. Agnes's faith and practices were well-integrated into her character (although she could spout more verses than about anyone I know).
At Home in Persimmon Hollow is a sweet and simple story. It reminded me of the "Little House on the Prairie" TV series. Community and faith are woven throughout the locals' lives. Kids are cute and spunky. The villains are somewhat bumbling. The outcome is predictable but enjoyable.
All in all, a well-written, light romantic read with a unique bit of history.
May 22, 2015
At Home in Persimmon Hallow by Gerri Bauer
In 1886, Agnes Foster flees, St. Isidore’s Home, the only home she has ever known to find herself on a train bound for the frontier, Persimmon Hallow, Fl. At the behest of Miss Eunice and Fanny Alloway of Persimmon Hallow, Agnes is to be the new teacher. Agnes was raised by the nuns in an orphanage, and has a solid faith in God and is a devoted Catholic. Florida is a world away from the city and Catholic orphanage, but the teaching of Mother Superior are ingrained in Agnes, especially, her advice that preachiness is not Godliness and to not offer advise when it is not sought. Mother Superiors advise to Agnes is sorely tested when she meets Seth Taylor. Seth is the Uncle to young Billy, whom Agnes agreed to watch over on the train until they reached Persimmon Hallow.
There is mystery concerning Agnes flight from the orphanage leaving young orphan Polly, whom she deeply loves and wants to adopt. Agnes’ mystery is eventually revealed as it now concerns Polly. Seth has his own mystery; what happened to make this handsome man loose his faith, become aloof, lonely, and unfriendly to his fellow neighbors and church. I found this very intriguing. As the mystery surrounding Seth is revealed, Agnes finds herself attracted to him. As the mysteries were of each were revealed, I was surprised at the extent of evil. The world is truly evil at times as Seth and Agnes discovered. Agnes has great faith in God; Seth avoids anything to do with God.
I think the author handles the religious aspect very well; I did not feel preached to but rather was feeling the faith of the character and the scripture from their point of view in the situation in the story. I watched the characters grow in their love of each other, for the community and achieve forgiveness for themselves and others.
The town of Persimmon Hallow is a very faith based hard working community that is very close. This small town sure has a lot going on; from Agnes and Seth’s mystery’s, shootings, fights, intrigue, engagements for propriety’s sake; the return of evil forces to Agnes and Seth, the plots just keep coming and coming. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I would recommend this book to any one.
I received this book from Barbour Publishing in return for an honest review.
In 1886, Agnes Foster flees, St. Isidore’s Home, the only home she has ever known to find herself on a train bound for the frontier, Persimmon Hallow, Fl. At the behest of Miss Eunice and Fanny Alloway of Persimmon Hallow, Agnes is to be the new teacher. Agnes was raised by the nuns in an orphanage, and has a solid faith in God and is a devoted Catholic. Florida is a world away from the city and Catholic orphanage, but the teaching of Mother Superior are ingrained in Agnes, especially, her advice that preachiness is not Godliness and to not offer advise when it is not sought. Mother Superiors advise to Agnes is sorely tested when she meets Seth Taylor. Seth is the Uncle to young Billy, whom Agnes agreed to watch over on the train until they reached Persimmon Hallow.
There is mystery concerning Agnes flight from the orphanage leaving young orphan Polly, whom she deeply loves and wants to adopt. Agnes’ mystery is eventually revealed as it now concerns Polly. Seth has his own mystery; what happened to make this handsome man loose his faith, become aloof, lonely, and unfriendly to his fellow neighbors and church. I found this very intriguing. As the mystery surrounding Seth is revealed, Agnes finds herself attracted to him. As the mysteries were of each were revealed, I was surprised at the extent of evil. The world is truly evil at times as Seth and Agnes discovered. Agnes has great faith in God; Seth avoids anything to do with God.
I think the author handles the religious aspect very well; I did not feel preached to but rather was feeling the faith of the character and the scripture from their point of view in the situation in the story. I watched the characters grow in their love of each other, for the community and achieve forgiveness for themselves and others.
The town of Persimmon Hallow is a very faith based hard working community that is very close. This small town sure has a lot going on; from Agnes and Seth’s mystery’s, shootings, fights, intrigue, engagements for propriety’s sake; the return of evil forces to Agnes and Seth, the plots just keep coming and coming. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I would recommend this book to any one.
I received this book from Barbour Publishing in return for an honest review.
March 16, 2019
As a Catholic interested in Christian fiction, I was really looking forward to reading this novel in which the protagonist, Agnes Foster, is an orphan who was raised by nuns in a Catholic orphanage in New York. We're told she is devout in her faith, but I wish we'd been given a little more of her backstory. What was her life like as an orphan? Which nuns was she particularly close to and what was their story? How did she choose fellow orphan Polly to adopt?
When the story begins, it is 1886 and Agnes is traveling to Florida to become a teacher in the community of Persimmon Hollow. She has had to leave the orphanage in New York after she was kidnapped and taken to a brothel where she escaped (untainted) after one night with the help of some of the prostitutes. Her reputation was still compromised and some of the orphanage's wealthy donors threatened to cease their patronage if Agnes was still living under the orphanage's roof. I thought this story was a bit absurd.
The day Agnes arrives in Persimmon Hollow, Agnes meets Seth Taylor, a successful, hard-working man who, we're told, was also raised Catholic but who has fallen away from his faith after some tragedies. Again, I would have liked to know more about Seth's backstory. We don't know much about his parents or how they raised him in the faith.
Then there are some unsavory characters who come into the picture who plot to kidnap Agnes again and swindle Seth out of his property. I found these characters to be rather stereotypical bad-Western yukum up characters who bumbled around and couldn't agree with each other.
For me, there just wasn't enough story here and no characters that were very interesting. About a third of the way through, I found myself reading the first sentence of each paragraph because that's all I needed to keep up with what little story there was. Disappointed.
When the story begins, it is 1886 and Agnes is traveling to Florida to become a teacher in the community of Persimmon Hollow. She has had to leave the orphanage in New York after she was kidnapped and taken to a brothel where she escaped (untainted) after one night with the help of some of the prostitutes. Her reputation was still compromised and some of the orphanage's wealthy donors threatened to cease their patronage if Agnes was still living under the orphanage's roof. I thought this story was a bit absurd.
The day Agnes arrives in Persimmon Hollow, Agnes meets Seth Taylor, a successful, hard-working man who, we're told, was also raised Catholic but who has fallen away from his faith after some tragedies. Again, I would have liked to know more about Seth's backstory. We don't know much about his parents or how they raised him in the faith.
Then there are some unsavory characters who come into the picture who plot to kidnap Agnes again and swindle Seth out of his property. I found these characters to be rather stereotypical bad-Western yukum up characters who bumbled around and couldn't agree with each other.
For me, there just wasn't enough story here and no characters that were very interesting. About a third of the way through, I found myself reading the first sentence of each paragraph because that's all I needed to keep up with what little story there was. Disappointed.
August 22, 2015
This was a wonderful, heartwarming story of pioneers in early Florida. I really enjoyed reading this; you get a real sense of the kind of place Florida was and what the earliest settlers had to face when they first moved there. The way the characters rely on their faith to get them through difficult times was woven skillfully throughout the story. I very much look forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 2, 2021
Too predictable, best suited to a Christian adolescent reader who likes happy endings
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2016
At Home in Persimmon Hollow is a wonderful book about love and forgiveness. The Hero and Heroine are both of the Catholic faith, which is new to me as far as the Christian books I've read. They have all been of a Christian faith other than Catholic. I really liked the heroine Agnes Foster, who comes from an orphanage as an adult to teach in Persimmon Hollow. She has a few secrets that she wrestles with whether to tell anyone about or not. Especially the Misses Alloways that she is rooming with in their boardinghouse.
The hero, Seth Taylor starts out a rather grumpy man who has turned his back on God and wants nothing to do with Him. He is rather rude to Agnes when they meet, but begins to warm up to her. Agnes is determined to get Seth's nephew, who arrived on the train with Agnes, in school instead of out on the grove working for his Seth.
Agnes is anxious to get her adopted daughter from the orphanage and down to Persimmon Hollow, Florida as soon as possible, so she is saving up her teacher's pay to send to the orphanage to get Polly to Florida. Not to mention, helping the orphanage she grew up in. The need to get Polly to Persimmon Hollow as quickly as possible becomes a necessity when the child's life is in danger. Seth steps up and wires the money to the orphanage to get Polly to Agnes as soon as possible.
This is a story that will touch your heart and keep you wanting to read until the very end. You will also hate to see it end and hope for a second book to follow up on Polly's progress as a young lady. Let's hope there will be one. Enjoy!
This book was given to me for my honest review. The opinions stated are my own and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
The hero, Seth Taylor starts out a rather grumpy man who has turned his back on God and wants nothing to do with Him. He is rather rude to Agnes when they meet, but begins to warm up to her. Agnes is determined to get Seth's nephew, who arrived on the train with Agnes, in school instead of out on the grove working for his Seth.
Agnes is anxious to get her adopted daughter from the orphanage and down to Persimmon Hollow, Florida as soon as possible, so she is saving up her teacher's pay to send to the orphanage to get Polly to Florida. Not to mention, helping the orphanage she grew up in. The need to get Polly to Persimmon Hollow as quickly as possible becomes a necessity when the child's life is in danger. Seth steps up and wires the money to the orphanage to get Polly to Agnes as soon as possible.
This is a story that will touch your heart and keep you wanting to read until the very end. You will also hate to see it end and hope for a second book to follow up on Polly's progress as a young lady. Let's hope there will be one. Enjoy!
This book was given to me for my honest review. The opinions stated are my own and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
November 28, 2019
Im going to start off my review by saying how lovely the book cover is. I like the woman's expression on her face like it wistfully thinking what am I doing here?
Well, the story will tell you that. I think cover goes perfectly with the story inside.
I found this a refreshing read. It was lighthearted, and the way the author has written this story drew me in immediately.
I just enjoyed the book all the way around and I like it especially because this was my first book from Netgalley.
I didn't want to leave the characters behind but I can always go back and reread this book.
I know that my heart was full after reading this book. This story was satisfying until the end.
My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
Well, the story will tell you that. I think cover goes perfectly with the story inside.
I found this a refreshing read. It was lighthearted, and the way the author has written this story drew me in immediately.
I just enjoyed the book all the way around and I like it especially because this was my first book from Netgalley.
I didn't want to leave the characters behind but I can always go back and reread this book.
I know that my heart was full after reading this book. This story was satisfying until the end.
My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
August 4, 2018
City orphan Agnes arrives to tle Persimmon Hollow, Florida, armed with her faith, hoping for a new start as a city teacher. And Persimmon Hollow is nothing like she expexcts-but might be everything she needs. Including one fine, non-believing man.
Oh my. Being Catholic myself, I like the Catholic presence in the book, and also the spirit of ecumenism.
This book is cozy and sweet, which I like. But, in all honesty, this book is not according to my reading taste because of certain naivete, preachiness and white-and-blackness. But I recognize the warm spirit and wish the book a lot of readers who will appreciate it.
Oh my. Being Catholic myself, I like the Catholic presence in the book, and also the spirit of ecumenism.
This book is cozy and sweet, which I like. But, in all honesty, this book is not according to my reading taste because of certain naivete, preachiness and white-and-blackness. But I recognize the warm spirit and wish the book a lot of readers who will appreciate it.
June 5, 2017
The story begins with not that good first meeting, when a good woman, meets the kinda bad guy, but eventually story lifts it to more better when gradually her prayers already granted. Life is like that, we may encounter the very best experiences but if we trust God, everything will be alright soon. I love the story every time there's pointing bible verses and I am amazed on how Persimmon hollow really looks like if it's a real one. Thank you for sharing your book.
November 9, 2017
A sweet story with a strong catholic influence.
February 10, 2020
A Catholic version of a Christian Romance Novel...I did get hooked! Who doesn't want to escape a Chicago winter to read about Florida, late 1800s, and Romance!?!?
March 12, 2016
Gerri Bauer's love of history, particularly that of the Florida frontier, shines through the pages and characters of Persimmon Hollow. Witty humor, inspiring faith, and gentle romance provide a soothing respite for the soul even amid the thread of suspense that weaves between the plot. Animated characters will bring plenty of smiles to your face, and Bauer's descriptions of the landscape will have you fanning away the heat and mosquitoes, smelling citrus on the breeze, and craving freshly squeezed orange juice!
The characters - both main and secondary - were perhaps my favorite part of this novel. So delightfully charming, they each dug themselves a place in my heart before too many pages had turned. Clyde, Fanny, and Eunice are such a wonderful trio with great lines like, "Wasn't fixing to turn my delivery wagon into a barouche." Billy and Polly are adorable children - especially Billy - and they added an energy to the story that would have otherwise been missing from the other characters. I really enjoyed watching Seth's journey with God as he struggled to deal with impossibly tough issues that life (and others) had handed him; his anger didn't have an easy fix - or easy answers - and I appreciated that Gerri didn't give him any.
Agnes comes from a very devout Catholic background; when she arrives in Persimmon Hollow, she finds that she is one of the only Catholics in the area. As such, she must adjust to worshiping with people from other denominational backgrounds and wrestle with a small amount of prejudice. Although I am not Catholic, I appreciate how Gerri Bauer embeds her own beliefs and practices into Agnes' character - many readers can and will relate to her, a rarity for Catholics in the Christian fiction realm. While at times, the story did get a bit too "preachy" for my tastes, it really is all part of Agnes' character.
And I really must make mention of the bad guys - they were nothing to laugh at, really, but at times they did indeed make me chuckle. Like when one said he was "getting moldy" from being cooped up by all the rain. The bits of humor scattered throughout their scenes helped offset their evil intentions a bit and kept the story from becoming too heavy.
Bottom Line: A strong debut novel and a great start to the "Persimmon Hollow Legacy" series, At Home in Persimmon Hollow has a little bit of everything - history, romance, humor, faith, and suspense. Christian fiction readers from a Catholic background will especially appreciate this story as it honors their worship practices and beliefs, but folks from other denominations won't find it off-putting (at least I didn't).
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
The characters - both main and secondary - were perhaps my favorite part of this novel. So delightfully charming, they each dug themselves a place in my heart before too many pages had turned. Clyde, Fanny, and Eunice are such a wonderful trio with great lines like, "Wasn't fixing to turn my delivery wagon into a barouche." Billy and Polly are adorable children - especially Billy - and they added an energy to the story that would have otherwise been missing from the other characters. I really enjoyed watching Seth's journey with God as he struggled to deal with impossibly tough issues that life (and others) had handed him; his anger didn't have an easy fix - or easy answers - and I appreciated that Gerri didn't give him any.
Agnes comes from a very devout Catholic background; when she arrives in Persimmon Hollow, she finds that she is one of the only Catholics in the area. As such, she must adjust to worshiping with people from other denominational backgrounds and wrestle with a small amount of prejudice. Although I am not Catholic, I appreciate how Gerri Bauer embeds her own beliefs and practices into Agnes' character - many readers can and will relate to her, a rarity for Catholics in the Christian fiction realm. While at times, the story did get a bit too "preachy" for my tastes, it really is all part of Agnes' character.
And I really must make mention of the bad guys - they were nothing to laugh at, really, but at times they did indeed make me chuckle. Like when one said he was "getting moldy" from being cooped up by all the rain. The bits of humor scattered throughout their scenes helped offset their evil intentions a bit and kept the story from becoming too heavy.
Bottom Line: A strong debut novel and a great start to the "Persimmon Hollow Legacy" series, At Home in Persimmon Hollow has a little bit of everything - history, romance, humor, faith, and suspense. Christian fiction readers from a Catholic background will especially appreciate this story as it honors their worship practices and beliefs, but folks from other denominations won't find it off-putting (at least I didn't).
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
August 2, 2015
At Home in Persimmon Hollow by Gerri Bauer is a Catholic / Christian based historical romance novel. Set in 19th century Florida, at the heart of the story is a young woman named Agnes Foster who was raised in a Catholic orphange by nuns. After an incident with a villain, Rufus Smith, she is compelled to leave the orphanage and strike out on her own as a teacher in Persimmon Hollow. There, through a young 12 year old boy named Billy, she encounters his uncle Seth, a handsome loner. Soon, her past catches up to hger, throwing her into grave danger. In this heartwarming story-line, we experience good vs evil as entire town comes together to either aid or hamper poor Agnes. And of course, love blossoms with Seth.
What a stunning cover! It definitely drew me to the book. I enjoyed reading a Catholic romance novel, my first, and the unique setting of 19th century Florida. The Christianity in this novel is a bit stronger than other novels, which will appeal to some and discourage others. For me, it was pure enjoyment. A nice story indeed!
Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a stunning cover! It definitely drew me to the book. I enjoyed reading a Catholic romance novel, my first, and the unique setting of 19th century Florida. The Christianity in this novel is a bit stronger than other novels, which will appeal to some and discourage others. For me, it was pure enjoyment. A nice story indeed!
Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2023
In Gerri Bauer’s, At Home in Persimmon Hollow, Agnes Foster leaves the familiar environment of an orphanage in New York to pursue a teaching position in the rustic surroundings of Florida. After she arrives, Agnes meets Seth Taylor, who is dealing with a heart-breaking loss. Will she be able to help Seth find a relationship with God before tragedy strikes?
At Home in Persimmon Hollow has the promise of an engaging book. The setting and the historical period are intriguing, and the plot seems fascinating. There are heavy Catholic themes which I set aside for the purpose of the story. However, the lack of character arc in the storyline makes the novel less interesting. Moreover, the dialogue which is stilted hurts the flow of the book. Agnes is presented as preachy and officious which makes her character appear artificial and flat. As a result, the story is not as enjoyable as it could be. Sadly, I can’t recommend,
At Home in Persimmon Hollow.
I was given a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review
At Home in Persimmon Hollow has the promise of an engaging book. The setting and the historical period are intriguing, and the plot seems fascinating. There are heavy Catholic themes which I set aside for the purpose of the story. However, the lack of character arc in the storyline makes the novel less interesting. Moreover, the dialogue which is stilted hurts the flow of the book. Agnes is presented as preachy and officious which makes her character appear artificial and flat. As a result, the story is not as enjoyable as it could be. Sadly, I can’t recommend,
At Home in Persimmon Hollow.
I was given a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review
September 18, 2015
With a bit of adventure, romance, and the discovery of a place to call come, Gerri Bauer has created a novel that readers will enjoy over and over again. With its inspiring story and loveable characters At Home in Persimmon Hollow will quickly become a favorite among readers. Not only will readers enjoy this heart-warming story, but they will come to love and maybe even want to call Persimmon Hollow home. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy inspiring, historical fiction romance novels.
Series: Persimmon Hollow Legacy
Genre: historical fiction; romance; Christian fiction
Publisher: Franciscan Media
Publication date: July 17, 2015
Number of pages: 320
Other books in the series:
2-Stitching a Life in Persimmon Hollow (coming April 2016)
A review copy of this novel was provided by Franciscan Media.
Series: Persimmon Hollow Legacy
Genre: historical fiction; romance; Christian fiction
Publisher: Franciscan Media
Publication date: July 17, 2015
Number of pages: 320
Other books in the series:
2-Stitching a Life in Persimmon Hollow (coming April 2016)
A review copy of this novel was provided by Franciscan Media.
September 17, 2015
I got this in exchange of an honest review, the books was so alive you feel really connected to the characters everything is perfectly done with the right characters for the right time and space the author knew how to do excellent work I loved the story line the flow of events between the characters also how they interact together these characters can be alive in any time and I felt so connected to them as if the emotions that she felt I was feeling now I recommend this to everyone
November 1, 2016
I won this book through Goodreads and it took me a while to read it because I had a pile of other books. This is a wonderful book about finding your home. I enjoyed it so much that I ordered the 2nd book in the series because my library doesn't carry it. I highly recommend this book!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews