A handsome newcomer with secrets shows a yearning Amish woman a chance at happiness—but their love will need all their courage to keep . . .
Grace Blauch is skilled at midwifery—and crafting quilts that help others pass on messages of enduring family love. But a disfiguring birthmark keeps the young Amish woman from a husband and home of her own—until Mark King arrives from another community. His helpfulness and independent nature earn Grace’s respect. And he finds her outspoken ways and determination to do right irresistibly appealing. Soon Grace is planning a wedding quilt of her very own . . . until her father discovers that Mark’s shunned brother is hiding somewhere in town . . .
Grace can well understand why Mark took such a risk once she hears his wrenching reasons. But she fears even prayer will not convince her father to restore his blessing on their union. She wills herself to face the end of her dreams, but sudden danger and an impossible act of generosity will show her that abiding hope can inspire the most precious of miracles . . .
"Endearing characters and a delightful story make this a keeper for fans of Amish romance." --Emma Miller on Change of Heart
I said to my loving husband, Ed, “I’ve always wanted to write a book. A story that readers would get lost in for a while.” He said, “Do it!” My daughter, Misty, brother, Mitch, and Mom, Sue said, “Take Ed’s advice, do it!” So I did. The road wasn’t easy, but the education, Amish research, and ride along the way to getting published taught me to take my favorite verse to heart.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 KJV
Why Amish Inspirational Romance? I love their dedication to serve God. I visited Amish Country in Ohio many times. They work hard and have such a close knit friendship with each other. It’s heartwarming and uplifting. At the same time, they face hardships and difficult problems just like we do.
God answered my prayers and gave me the best mentor, author, and friend, Patricia Campbell, to hone my skills. I’m blessed to have Dawn Dowdle as my agent, and John S. from Kensington as my editor.
I’m thank for you, the reader, for being interested in my book!
I’d love to hear from you. www.mollyjebber.com Join my newsletter. Like my facebook author page, or send me an email.
GRACE’S FORGIVENESS by Molly Jebber is the second book in the Keepsake Pocket Quilt series. The story is set in Berlin, Ohio in 1900. Grace Blauch was born with a red birthmark on her left cheek. Grace is a midwife when her community needs her and she works in her dry goods shop that she runs with her best friend Sarah. This is where she meets Mark King. Her life is about to change in ways she never expected and she has no idea what is coming!
Molly Jebber sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with the family dealing with all their troubles and GRACE’S FORGIVENESS is exactly that! She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Molly Jebber book if you are a fan of the Amish genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a family can stand before it completely breaks down and splits.
GRACE’S FORGIVENESS is incredible novel. I am excited to read more by Molly Jebber as I really enjoyed this story. It is not your usual Historical Amish Romance. Usually we are reading about Amish who stay in their community. Not the case in this wonderful tale. Mark moves to Berlin Ohio for a fresh start. He is running away from all the trouble his shunned brother caused him and his family. I was instantly caught up in all the new things that were happening to Grace and many times I just wanted to reach out and hug her, especially while she was dealing with the nasty things people say about the way she looks with her birthmark! Mark really cares for Grace, but is worried that his brother will come back and cause trouble for them. Your heart will break for both of them. All they want is to be happy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
It was definitely better than the first one, but it dragged a bit. I liked the situation that Grace and Mark had to face with his brother. I liked that they also struggled with some of the rules about shunning people. The one thing I found odd was that usually in a close Amish community, everyone knows at least who everyone is, but there were still instances in this book where Grace had to help birth a baby and the people were introducing themselves to her. She is a midwife and they usually know who in the community is pregnant.
Grace is a character to adore! She offers forgiveness freely to all around her and yet she has a spicy attitude about her as well. She is very realistic. Even among the Amish, who do not believe in taking pride in one's looks, she is often ostracized due to the apple-sized birthmark that mars her face. She longs for a husband and children of her own to love, but she fears that will never happen but then Mark King moves to town and he only has eyes for Grace. Will Mark's wayward brother ruin their chances for love and a home and family of their own?
This story is one that is definitely believable and stirs the heart strings. I rated this book 5 stars and am dying to read the third book in this series, Two Suitors for Anna. I highly recommend this book and author to readers.
I received a print copy of this book from the publisher and an ebook of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Grace’s Forgiveness by Molly Jebber is the second book in Keepsake Pocket Quilt series. The novel is set in Berlin, Ohio in 1900. Grace Blauch was born with a red birthmark on her left cheek. Grace is a midwife and also runs Grace and Sarah’s Dry Good’s Shop with her best friend, Sarah Helmuth. Grace does not believe she will ever get married until she Mark King comes to town. Mark is new to the area (just bought a small farm) and is opening a store next to Grace and Sarah (wood furniture and toys). Slowly Mark wins Grace’s trust and love. But then Mark’s (shunned) brother, Abel King comes to town. It is hard to put the feelings for family ahead of the Ordung. When Grace’s father finds out that Mark broke the Ordung, he removes his blessing from their wedding. Will Grace and Mark ever be able to get married? Grace and Mark’s road to happiness will not be easy, but it will be full of love and life lessons.
Grace’s Forgiveness is such a sweet book. It has a good moral and talks about love, faith, family, and community (and quilting). Grace’s Forgiveness is well-written and easy to read. I liked the characters and the setting (Berlin, Ohio). This is the second book I have read by Molly Jebber and I look forward to reading more of her novels. It is a simple story, but I liked the message contained within it. What you do in Mark’s situation? Could you ignore a family member in need (who arrives at your door)? I give Grace’s Forgiveness 4 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of Grace’s Forgiveness from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sweet and simple Amish story about the importance of generosity and forgiveness.
Grace can not believe that handsome Mark would be interested in her - after all, she has a big birthmark on her face! Yet - he obviously is smitten with her. And their romance proceeds well and the marriage is on the horizon - yet Mark has a shunned brother, who shows in the city. And the Amish people have hard rules about keeping the contact with their shunned fellows...
Mixed feelings. The premise is interesting, but the execution is in the need of more "ruthless" editor, interested in the true, deep dealing with the less pleasant realities of (Amish) life. There are two strong topics - the practice of shunning and the discomfort feelings/behaviour shown towards the "disfigured" people. I would love for the author to use these strong topics with more braveness, to leave the formulaic sweetness of the traditional Amish novels for the raw, real novel dealing with uncomfortable realities of (Amish) life. Then the goodness, love and forgiveness would have bigger impact on readers then, I believe.
The authoress obviously has the potential for the good motif. Fingers crossed for the better, deeper execution the next time!
Molly Jebber’s book two in the Keepsake Pocket Quilt series, Grace’s Forgiveness, will warm your heart. This story is about an Amish woman, Grace, which was born with a large birthmark on her face. All that everyone ever sees when they look at her is the birthmark, instead of who she is deep down. This has hurt Grace on many occasions, but then one day a handsome man catches her eye and treats her as though the birthmark is not there. Through joy, secrets, sorrows, forgiveness, and possibly love, can these two find their way to each other. This story is filled with loveable and heartwarming characters, as well as a story that will gently touch readers’ hearts. I recommend this story to readers that enjoy Amish, romance.
Series: Keepsake Pocket Quilt Genre: Amish, historical, romance, Christian Publisher: Zebra Publication date: January 26, 2016 Number of pages: 320
Content Rating: PG Book Rating: 5 stars
Other books in the series: 1-Change of Heart 3-Two Suitors for Anna (coming February 2017)
A review copy of this book was provided via CelebrateLit.
*sigh* Another story where the synopsis was 100x's better than the actual story line. After reading the synopsis, I was very interested in reading this book, but after the first few pages, I knew this would not be the book for me.
While the plot seemed to be well thought out, the writing was exceptionally bad. Again, I lay 50% of the blame on the editors for not catching this problem. Not only did the author mix up which character was which (numerous times) but she had them... speaking out of character... and don't get me started on the Pennsylvania Dutch. It seemed like the author Googled a few "Amish" words and threw them in the story at every opening she could find.
In my opinion, this book needs a whole lot of editing before it is finally released to its paying customers.
***Free ARC from Netgalley.com for my honest review.***
Book 2 in A Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series By Molly Jebber Grace’s Forgivness Wow this could not have a better title! The main character Grace is an absolute delight, being born with a rather large birthmark on her face has not stopped her from being a forgiving, wonderful person, although she at times is hurt by others rude stares and the fact the the young men in her community turn the other way she still forgives them all and has a love in her heart for others many don’t. Mark King is new in town and at first sight he see’s Grace like no other for her inner beauty, he’s intrigued And can’t wait to see her more. This book like Book 1 is fantastic and will have you pulling for the characters, i can’t get through Molly Jebber’s books without a tissue is hand. I’m sure you will agree that the title is a perfect fit. If I could give this a higher than 5 Star I would.
There is absolutely nothing terribly wrong about this book but this is not terribly right either. The writing is repetitious, the characterization sometimes seems forced and very obvious, and the plot is typical.
This is the kind of book you slog through as you decided to read it. There was nothing I found that really wanted to make me stay up late and read it. I finished the book because I started it. It's that kind of book.
Recommend with caveats given.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
This is a sweet story of love, understanding, patience and forgiveness. Grace and Mark meet and their lives are changed by various circumstances. Yet, through all that happens, they still show respect for each other and for their faith. This story had good twists and turns that keeps the reader involved and wanting more. A very enjoyable story.
Grace's Forgiveness is book 2 of the Keepsake Pocket Quilt series. Just like the first of the series, I really enjoyed this story. Great plot, characters, and setting. Recommended. 5 plus stars.
Grace is a "young" Amish girl, who practices midwifing and is part owner in an Amish goods shop in Berlin, Ohio. She has never found a man who is willing to look any further than the ugly birthmark on her face, or get to know her as a person. She fears she will spend her life in spinster, delivering everyone else's boppli, but never having her own. Her best friend has left the Amish and is now married to a doctor and practicing nursing. To make it even more difficult, she has been shunned and Grace must never speak of her.
Mark,a new-to-town, single Amish fellow has just purchased the store next to hers. He is the only man who has noticed her beyond the mark on her face. He and Grace hit it off wonderfully, they have have so much in common including their loved ones who have been shunned. But he also has a secret that could come back to haunt him and ruin their relationship forever.
After reading Molly Jebber's Christmas novella, I was so excited to get to read this book. I enjoyed the story line and the mystery involving an unknown person who was wandering around the town hiding in barns, and stealing things. I also enjoyed Mark and Grace's romance, although it seemed a bit rushed and pushy to me. Maybe that is how the Amish do relationships. Everyone was kind of pushing them together as soon as they met. I liked how Molly incorporated the aspect of faith, trusting God when things were not turning out quite like planned, and the importance of forgiveness, as well as, not jumping to conclusions on a matter. As always, the legalism of the Amish religion kind of gets to me, and I don't necessarily agree with their version of Christianity. But I do admire them for living a "separate" life from the world, as well as, their simple lifestyle.
There were a few things in the book that seem a little out of sync to me and the prose did not flow well. In many places it seemed cut and dry. It did spur me however to look up information concerning Amish marriages, wagon trains, and Amish funerals. So this book even turned out to be educational for me. I also felt like the cover did not accurately portray the character. Grace has a birthmark on her left cheek, but the girl on the cover did not.I do not know if that was supposed to be representative of her for sure.
Overall, in-spite of the flow I enjoyed the plot and the mysterious twist; as a seamstress, I enjoyed the quilts mentioned. The idea of a Keepsake Pocket Quilt was quite interesting and exciting. It would be fun to make one myself. My grandfather dealt in woodwork and often made little things such as described in the book, including a cedar chest for me when I was growing up. That brought back good memories.
This book is part of a series and is book two. I have not read book one, but that did not affect the characters in book two. I do believe Molly has another book in the series coming the beginning of next year.
I received this book from Celebrate Lit and the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Grace's Forgiveness is the 2nd in Jebber's A Keepsake Pocket Quilt Novel series, but it definitely stands on its own! I have only read this second book, and it is a very detailed and well-rounded novel. The novel centers around Grace, who is both a midwife & a businesswoman as she runs a quilt store with her friend, Sarah. Both girls are Amish and live within a tight-knit, protective Amish community. The community is open to outsiders from a business standpoint, but members of the community are to refrain from any communication and contact with "the outside world" that isn't business related. This exclusion is the main source of conflict between Grace and Sarah, as Grace's best friend Becca married a man who isn't Amish, so Becca is to be shunned. Grace still loves and cares for Becca and breaks the rules a bit to remain in touch with her.
As the reader begins to see the complexities within Grace & Sarah's friendship, a newcomer arrives. He is Mark King, and has just moved from the Amish town of Lancaster and desires to become part of Berlin's Amish community. Mark is single and will be opening a store nextdoor to Grace and Sarah's quiltstore. Sarah, who is married, makes it clear to Mark that Grace is single and available. While the two seem a little embarrassed, they are both intrigued. And Grace is very impressed by the gentleman who seems oblivious to the birthmark on her face that causes so many others to stare at her. While Grace and Mark get to know one another better, the reader finds out that Mark has a brother Abel who left the Amish church and is the source of much chaos and heartache. And the reader begins to wonder: Will Abel bring turmoil to Mark's new life in Berlin? Will Grace and Mark discover they both have a secret connection with someone shunned from the Amish community? Will that knowledge bring them together or end their relationship?
Grace's Forgiveness provides interesting insight to life within the Amish community. From the Bishop having to approve Mark's acceptance, to a barn raising, to the rituals for funerals and engagements, to interacting with local police, and to family dynamics, Jebber is able to bring both depth to her characters and awareness to her readers in a seamless manner. It's not "just" a romance novel, as it contains some mystery and suspense. Adding Grace's parents as minor characters brings another layer of depth and tension to the novel. Grace is an independent and confident woman, and seeing her navigate falling in love while using her skills as a midwife and remaining a successful business woman makes the novel a must-read.
**I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.** ~~~~~~~~~~~~
Grace's Forgiveness (Keepsake Pocket Quilt #2) by Molly Jebber (Goodreads Author) I loved this book. The main character Grace helps run a quilt shop as well as practices midwifery. I found the book fascinating. There was much about the Amish way of life that I didn’t know included in this book. I can’t say what it would ruin the book for you. Grace was born with a disfiguring birthmark on her face which had kept her from finding a true love to marry. The men couldn’t stop looking at it. From the start when she meets a newcomer to their village, an Amish man, Mark…..he never once looked at anything but her eyes when speaking to her. He seemed quite smitten with her right from the beginning. Mark has a brother who was shunned, his brother came into the picture just after Mark got permission to marry Grace. He caused problems for Mark and Grace so that her Daed withdrew his support for their marriage and nothing they could say or do would get him to change his mind. There was much that went on in the book, it was well written, the characters were interesting, and the book kept my interest all the way to the end. I read it in one day. I received this book from a Good Reads contest. I’m sure the author will be happy that I’ve posted a review for her new book. Publishers provide free copies to Goodreads in hopes of getting early feedback about the book. Description as found on Good Reads: A handsome newcomer with secrets shows a yearning Amish woman a chance at happiness—but their love will need all their courage to keep . . .
Grace Blauch is skilled at midwifery—and crafting quilts that help others pass on messages of enduring family love. But a disfiguring birthmark keeps the young Amish woman from a husband and home of her own—until Mark King arrives from another community. His helpfulness and independent nature earn Grace’s respect. And he finds her outspoken ways and determination to do right irresistibly appealing. Soon Grace is planning a wedding quilt of her very own . . . until her father discovers that Mark’s shunned brother is hiding somewhere in town . . .
Grace can well understand why Mark took such a risk once she hears his wrenching reasons. But she fears even prayer will not convince her father to restore his blessing on their union. She wills herself to face the end of her dreams, but sudden danger and an impossible act of generosity will show her that abiding hope can inspire the most precious of miracles . . .
"Endearing characters and a delightful story make this a keeper for fans of Amish romance." --Emma Miller on Change of Heart
Grace's Forgiveness, by Molly Jebber is Book 2 of the Keepsake Pocket Quilt series, and like Book 1, Change of Heart, it can act as a stand-alone. I enjoyed Change of Heart, and therefore was looking forward to this second book, especially about Grace. From Change of Heart, I new Grace was Becca's (the main character in CoH) best friend, and she is shy and insecure due to a large birthmark on her face. Now, some time since CofH, Becca is still an accomplished midwife, as well as a partner in a quilt shop with her good friend Sarah.
I felt connected with Grace. Her compassion warms me, independence and skill inspires me and her insecurities resonate with me. Though her insecurities are still very prevalent in the book, God's grace shines through and lets her see what is important. A sudden danger and an act of generosity changed her outlook, and allow her to accept love. That, my friends gives this story depth.
As an Amish historical fiction, Molly gave us traditions and ideals. From barn raising to acceptance to a specific Amish church community, to process towards matrimony and even shunning, we have an eye-full - a book-full of information written into a story that'll appeal to any Amish story fan. In the romance department, Mark King and Grace are ones to root for. I also find the family dynamics throughout the story from married couples to brothers to Grace's family, were realistic, which allows for an easy read. The story flows, even when the dialogue tends to be a little choppy, which was similar to what I said about CofH. With Grace and Sarah's friendship, I felt Sarah was too demanding, but that could be because I can't relate to shunning your best friend or even family members because they left your church. That is one Amish law I will never understand.
In all, a lovely story of growth, love and communication. This series have turned out to be a gem in my collection. I look forward to the next one.
NOTE: I received a complimentary ARC through CelebrateLit as part of Grace's Forgiveness' blog tour in exchange for my honest opinion. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
GRACE’S FORGIVENESS, by Molly Jebber is Book 2 in the Keepsake Pocket Quilt series. It can definitely be read as a standalone even though it’s part of a series. The story takes place in Berlin, Ohio in 1900.
Grace Blauch is shy and very insecure due to a large red apple sized birthmark on her face that she is always aware of due mostly to the reaction of others to it. She’s co-owner with Sarah Helmuth iof the Grace & Sarah’s Dry Goods Shop where they specialize in homemade quality items like locally made Amish quilts. Grace is also a skillful and very sought after midwife.
At the beginning of the story Grace and Sarah meet Mark King who has recently moved to town. He is opening a woodworking shop in the adjoining shop. Grace is taken with him instantly because he doesn’t shy away from her birthmark or act as if he’s offended by it.
Grace is compassionate always putting others first, independent, and skilled in many aspects, but yet insecure thinking that no one could possibly look past her flawed features. It’s only through times of danger and persistence in true friendship and Mark wating to help her that she realizes that there might just be someone in the world for her – flaws and all. It’s true love that shows her that she isn’t flawed but that true beauty is the eyes of the beholder.
Through this Amish story although it that takes place years ago, we get a glimpse at some of the true values and ideas of the Amish. The values of community, family and faith are very evident. We learn that for every action there is a reaction – some not always pleasant. However, through prayer and faith that all things can work their way through.
This was the first book that I have read in this series. After reading this one, I know I will definitely be finding a way to read the others in the series. I want to know more about the people that lived during that era and in Berlin, Ohio in particular. I’d highly recommend this book to anyone that loves Amish stories, stories that may have their ups and down but show that faith can carry you through, for stories that show that you CAN have a clean romance novel or even for someone that wants just a great book to read.
I have always enjoyed Amish Christian Romance. I love learning about their way of life and the overall message of the books I have read. I was not disappointed when I completed Grace's Forgiveness by Molly Jebber.
Grace was a young Amish woman who lived up to her name. She had every reason to be angry or upset with God. She did not allow her disfigurement define her. She was pure in heart. She was graceful and obedient to God. She wanted to do the right thing. She helped everyone in her community and was loved by all. She wanted to follow Amish rules but had a difficult time in shunning her good friend.
Mark King had a secret. His brother left the Amish community. He lost both parents and then lost his only brother. He prayed for his brother to return to the fold. Could he turn his brother away if he came to Mark for help?
Mark and Grace meet and they quickly realize that they were a good match. He looked beyond her birthmark. He loved Grace and could see how much she loved God.
Grace and Mark both felt the pain of losing someone they loved through death or by leaving the Amish community. They both wanted the same things: a family, a life together and to be accepted for whom they were.
They both had secrets. They were blessed that they could share their inner thoughts to each other without being judged.
Their love story was one where they learned to trust and lean on each other through the difficult times. They had faith in God and that he would guide them and keep them strong.
Forgiveness is not always easy. But to forgive others when they have made a mistake or hurt you in some way is a gift. We gain so much when we forgive others. Mark, Grace, Grace's father and Mark's brother all learned that when they forgive or are forgiven that they have gained so much. This book was a delight to read. I received it free to review. I highly recommend this book to others especially to someone that is having a difficult time knowing how to forgive.
Grace is considered a spinster almost in the Amish community. She is a midwife and is co-owner of a store in the town of Berlin, Ohio. She has a very noticeable birthmark on her face that causes many people to act rudely toward her and is the reason she has not been married.
Mark King is the "new guy" in town and has decided he will open a store next to Grace's. Mark is a good man who never notices Grace's birthmark and only sees her for who she is, not what she looks like.
Most of this story is sweet and kind with a touch of mystery and suspense. The storyline is great. All of the characters are done well. Grace is so very sweet and kind even to those who are unkind to her because of the way she looks. Even though she gets discouraged sometimes, she always trusts the Lord to help her and comfort her. Mark was a great example of truly loving someone for who they are on the inside and not what they look like on the outside. I also enjoyed the character of Grace's Mamm. She was a very sweet lady who always tried to support Grace.
Amish Christian fiction is one of my favorite genre's. I picked this book because I really enjoyed Molly's novella in a Christmas book that I reviewed last year. This book kind of surprised me in the fact that the writing was quite different than the novella I read. I very much enjoy the plot of this book and most of the characters, but the dialogue in the book is very choppy. I really wanted more in the conversations and interactions between the characters. That being said, this is a sweet story with a sweet ending and will leave you smiling and happy for the characters. If you are looking for a light read that makes you smile, this is for you.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit, the publisher and Molly Jebber for the opportunity to review this book. A positive review was not required.
Grace is a lovely girl, but is very self conscious of the birthmark on her face. She knows people stare at it , but she tries to not let it bother her. She is a midwife and also works at a store that sells quilts. Grace longs for a husband and family , but thinks her birthmark keeps suitors away.
Mark has just moved to the town and opens a furniture shop next door to Grace's. He is very kind and they seem to really hit it off. He does notice her birthmark, but it doesn't bother him. He sees past that and looks at the beautiful young woman with a graceful and humble attitude . How many of us can look past imperfections ? Are we guilty of judging others because they may look or act differently.
The story is very well written with Amish traditions and makes you feel like you are there in the town with the characters. When Grace is asked to deliver a baby, the details are so precise I felt like I was there with Grace watching a miracle happen. The story flows very smoothly and shows how forgiveness is something we should do everyday. I loved the description of the pocket quilt. It is a lovely quilt that has a place to put a letter in . What a wonderful gift that would be to have a gorgeous quilt and a handwritten letter.
Mark has a secret that could get him shunned from the community. He has come to love Grace and respect her parents. What will happen when his secret is revealed? Can the community forgive him or will he have to move away? The story is beautifully written with wonderful characters. The author has written a story that is compelling and heartfelt. I would encourage everyone to grab a copy of this book and read a story that is emotional, faith filled and shows how forgiveness can touch lives.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and the author for an honest review.
I loved"Grace's Forgiveness" by Molly Jebber. It was a heart warming story about forgiveness and love and loyalty. I love the story but still don't understand and don't like the idea of shunning, but then I am not Amish!
In Grace's Forgiveness, Grace doesn't let her birthmark keep her from her midwifery—and crafting Keepsake Pocket Quilts that help others pass on messages of enduring family love. But it does keep her from believing that she will ever have a husband and kinner ( children) of her own.
Mark King is new in town and has a secret.This secret puts others in danger and violates the Ordnung (Amish laws).
Grace and Mark meet and an instant attraction soon develops into love and soon wedding plans but then Mark's secret is discovered and the wedding is off.
I had to keep reading to see how this conflict is solved.
Readers gets to know more about some of the characters that were in the book " Change Of Heart" which was a five star book. "Grace's Forgiveness" would be a excellent book even if you didn't read "Change Of Heart"
"Grace's Forgiveness" is the type of novel to read if you have lost your belief in the power of love and prayer. It will restore your belief.
Forgiveness is something we all need to practice and have. Grace does this really well.
"Grace's Forgiveness" has moments that made this reader think , Oh yes, and then Oh no, and even a couple of times think how can this be happening!
There are even moments of criminal suspense. I know not your normal Amish novel. Yes, this book has it all, love, faith, betrayal, loyalty,truth and criminal activity!
I am giving "Grace's Forgiveness" five stars.
I was given a copy by the publisher and Celebrate Lit for a honest review. The opinions expressed are mine own.
This is an Amish Christian fiction, set in Ohio. Grace is a young Amish lady who is unwed, presumably due to her disfiguring appearance at the hands of a rather large and unattractive facial birthmark. She's ridiculed and stared at, yet she remains "graceful," spreading kindness, even if she has given up on the idea of love. She works as a midwife, and in a quilt store. A charming young man, Mark, who is new to the area, decides to open up shop beside her quilt store, and he sees Grace as lovely and kind. the two hit it off, and Grace's dreams of a happily ever after look promising until her father takes back his blessing when he discovers some less than savory information. Will Grace have her Happy Ever After?
This is book 2 in the Pocket Quilt Series. I did not find it necessary to have read book 1 in order for the characters or storyline to make sense. I did find a bit of issue with the overall flow, but that is more of a stylistic thing than anything else. In other words, I felt as if I could easily predict what was going to happen next when I prefer more irony and more of a twisting plot. That's just a preference thing because the book is well written. That's not to say there aren't twists. There are, but again it's just a personal preference thing. I did find I needed to research a few things to fully understand, but that is not a negative at all! A pleasant read that also teaches me a lesson is always a great experience!
**I received this in exchange for my honest opinion. I wasn't required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.**
My Thoughts: This book is the second in The Keepsake Pocket Novels. After thoroughly enjoying "Change of Heart", I was somewhat reluctant to begin another book by this fabulous author.... NOT because I didn't love her writing, but because, I did not think that any other book could equal the first!! I was pleasantly surprised!! This book was equally as good, if not better.
The characters were so realistically and delightfully described that they became my best friends! The subject of having a birthmark and dealing with life's challenges due to it being in a prominent place, was dealt with in a sensitive manner. Grace had a heart of gold that even the taunts and hurtful comments made by others do not get her down. At times, I just wanted to give her a big hug and say it would work out fine. Her trust in the Lord was evident from the first to the end of this story. Mark was a man of God, who had gone through so many trials himself. Trying to do the right thing, is not always easy and often causes one more heartache.
The plot moved quickly full of twists and turns that keep the reader glued to the page. I must admit the world passed me by, as I lived with Grace and Mark.
This is a book that Amish Romance readers will love but also one that teaches all of us how to accept and deal with others who are different . Strength and faith is so important to one's happiness, as this novel proves.
I highly recommend this book!! Definitely a five star!! Eagerly awaiting the next one!!
Will Mark King be able to start over in Berlin, Ohio? Or will a family member from back home put Mark's Amish membership in a new church in jeopardy?
Will Grace Blauch find a husband who will look past her birthmark and look at her with beauty instead? Will Grace's faith get tested and can she forgive? I can't give you those answers but you find read "Grace's Forgiveness" by Molly Jebber for yourself and find out what the buzz is all about.
I just loved "Grace's Forgiveness" because we all have had our faith tested and we all have had to give someone forgiveness. I loved that I felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing the same things as they were during the story. Molly Jebber is on my list of authors to look for. I plan to read more of her books in the future, for her characters are well developed and her story line is easy to follow while reading.
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.
Grace Blauch is happily running a story with her friend Sarah, as well as being a midwife in the community. Her hopes for a husband is pretty much gone because of a harsh birthmark on her hand, clearly were everyone can see. No Amish man wants a woman with something so noticeable on her hand, or who he? When Mark King comes to the Amish community, things may be different for Grace.
I enjoyed Grace’s story very much. Grace was a gentle sweet Amish young lady that would make any young Amish man a wonderful wife. My heart went out to her because no man would look past her birthmark. And I was certainly cheering own a relationship between Grace and Mark. Mark had problems of his own, and understood Grace more than any man ever had. I really liked Mark’s personality, and the fact that he was so caring for Grace, and for his brother, who was shunned by the Amish. Of course this shunning was a problem for Mark and Grace, another thing to come between their relationship. Now can their relationship survive the problems with Mark’s brother’s jumping the fence? Well you will need to read this wonderful book for the answer to this. You are truly in for hours of entertainment when you read Molly Jebber’s Grace’s Forgiveness.
I received this book from Celebration Lit Blog Tours to read and review. 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 55.
Grace is an independent woman in a time where the Amish are expected to be married and caring for a family. She loves the life she has managing an Amish store with her friend Sarah and no regrets that the men she has thought of as relationship material reject her based on one birthmark that makes her who she is not what she is made of. Yet all thoughts of spinsterhood disappear when the new shop owner next door Mark comes to make his introductions. She blushes with the thrill of having such feelings toward a man of great woodworking talent.
Their feelings grow as their faith and beliefs deepen in the community, church, and one another. But there is a problem for Mark that he cannot side step especially when he comes face-to-face with the issue. He has kept his own bruder a secret from everyone since he was shunned for leaving the Amish community and when discovered together Sarah’s father says they can no longer plan a life together as Mark will not follow the church doctrine. But love and faith have a way of working such issues out and with a lot of prayers between them and those surrounding them the bad becomes the glorious and the possibility of a lifetime of love reveals itself for everyone to see.
There are always pockets of hope if you look for them
Grace's Forgiveness, book 2 of A Keepsake Pocket Quilt series, written by Molly Jebber.
A handsome newcomer and a young Amish woman with a disfiguring facial birthmark, remind readers what a strong faith in God can help you overcome. As Mark King and Grace Blauch travel down a rocky road in search of love and happiness they encounter several difficulties. When Mark's shunned brother shows up unexpectedly he brings violence and causes Grace's father to stop plans for a relationship between Grace and Mark.
Will the young couple be able to face these problems and do it with love, ki dness and Forgiveness? Will they honor Grace's fathers wishes or will they look for another way? As I read this book I could watch the described scene playout before me. Molly gives great descriptions of who the characters are and how they contribute to this story.
I highly recommend Grace's Forgiveness for all those who love Amish fiction. When you add the historical side of this book, it gives the reader a well rounded story.
I received a free copy of Grace's Forgiveness for my honest review. I will be watching for the third book in this series, I also bought book one and loved it too!
I was drawn into the story of Grace from the beginning. Molly develops her characters well, and as a reader I felt connected to them throughout the book. Grace is a strong Amish lady with many good qualities but her birthmark created issues for some suitors. Then Mark King arrives in Berlin, OH and was drawn to Grace. Mark opens his furniture store next to the quilt shop where Grace worked. Grace is a captivated by Mark's work and vice versa. Grace's Forgiveness is packed with action, twists and turns with some unusual events in an Amish community. Will Grace and Mark be able to wed or will the unexpected visitor destroy their relationship?
This story has an underlying theme of love, faith and forgiveness. I rated this book 5 stars and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Two Suitors for Anna", in this series. I recommend this book to all readers who enjoy reading Amish genre.
I received an ARC copy of Grace's Forgiveness from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Grace’s Forgiveness brings home what people that are different have dealt with all of their lives. For Grace it was being born with a mark on her face, and we meet with people who won’t even look at her, never mind letting her wait on them in her store. The setting for this book is Berlin Ohio, and living in a conservative Amish community. This is a very strict way of life, and it appeared that you could be shunned for something we would find very innocent, but the setting is 1900, and things were very different. From the minute we meet Mark King, we find a connection sparking between Grace and Mark, and he doesn’t seem to even notice her birthmark. Can these two overcome the actions of others, and it surprised me what can cause you to be shunned. I enjoyed the kindness of this community, and how they all come together and help one another. We are even with Ruth, when as a midwife; she helps deliver a few babies. There is some danger in this community and it has landed at Mark’s doorstep, and we hope that all will survive in the end. I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review.