The Forgiving Jar

The Prayer Jars #2

by Wanda E. Brunstetter

What would happen if you found out someone has been impersonating you?
 
Sara Murray had never met her mother’s parents and was surprised to learn after her death that they were Amish living in Pennsylvania. When she is finally able to make the trip to meet them, she is shocked to learn someone else has been living with them and pretending to be Sara. Sara can’t understand how quickly her grandparents are willing to forgive the imposter.
 
Secrets and deceit seem to follow Sara, and she is so tired of it. Though soon she meets Brad Fuller who is visiting her grandparents for during Christmas. She likes him a lot, but even he seems to pull away from her, not being totally honest.
 
Struggling, Sara finds an old canning jar hidden in the barn that is full of encouraging prayers. Can Sara find a way to forgive the past and move on to building new relationships?

This is Book 2 in the brand-new series, The Prayer Jars, from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter.
Book 1 -- The Hope Jar (August 2018)
Book 3 -- The Healing Jar (August 2019)
 

Genres: Amish, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Christian, Christian Romance

312 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2019

About the author

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an Amish Fiction, and this is the second book in the Prayer Jars series. I love the characters in this book series. I have to say The Prayer Jars series is my favorite series by Wanda E. Brunstetter. I love the characters and the plot. In this book Sara has to learn to let things go and forgive. I love the mix of Englisher and Amish in this book.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series the Prayer Jars. I was not really sure about Sara and Brad. I was not sure about Michelle either. It took some reading and thinking but in the end I liked all three of them.

I even cried at one point in the book. So you know it was a good one. I can't wait for the next book in this series. The Healing Jar will be just a good as the first two I bet.

I gave this book 4 stars. I recommend reading the series but The Forgiving Jar can be read as a stand alone.

The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

[ReadAlongWithSue recovering from a stroke★⋆. ࿐࿔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whoops I’ve done it again!
Book 2 without reading book 1

I strongly suggest you read book 1

I think the previous book lays down foundation for what happens in this one.

The authors books I used to read everyone that came out, eagerly awaiting each one.

I veered away from this genre, I don’t know why, but coming back has been refreshing.

A lovely story, love, redemption and a lot we could learn from this.

My only one fault is that it was a bit too preachy for me.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar

Wanda Brunstetter



Oh how I love a Wanda Brunstetter story! She had my emotions all over the place. Once I started reading THE FORGIVING JAR it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Michelle after living the big lie she had everyone believing! Would Sara ever get over her anger for Michelle? What an awesome story. All of Wanda's 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.


Once you start reading THE FORGIVING JAR it will be very hard to put down! Wanda sure knows how to put a new twist on Amish fiction. Michelle was pretending to be the long lost grand daughter of Mary Ruth and Willis Lapp. After she comes clean, the Lapps forgive her but their "real" grand daughter, Sara can't seem to get past her anger. To Sara, Michelle is and will always be an imposter and she has no desire to forgive her. Michelle is really trying to show Sara how sorry she is and how she has changed but Sara isn't having any of it! THE FORGIVING JAR is filled with faith, forgiveness, second chances, love, as well as hurt and anger.


THE FORGIVING JAR is without a doubt one of the best Amish books I've read in 2019 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. When Sara finds the prayer jar in the basement I found myself thinking of those prayers over and over again! Wanda Brunstetter is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. I am now going to read all of her previous books that I have somehow missed and she is now an auto buy author for me! THE FORGIVING JAR is the second book in the Prayer Jar series and I can't wait to read the third book, The Healing Jar which comes out in August. Grab your copy today and get on the couch!


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter is book two in her The Prayer Jars series. This Amish fiction novel is another in the genre by this author of multiple bestsellers. The novel is part of a series but the author has done a good job of making it a standalone, still there are a few places where a bit more background would have enhanced the story. However, this does not detract from the overall enjoyment of this excellent book.

Sara Murray has just learned that her deceased mother’s parents are members of an Amish community in Pennsylvania. She arrives at her grandparents’ home to find a young lady posing as her. Her grandparents forgive the imposter but Sara is still resentful. Sara’s feelings of betrayal and resentment hinder her relationships with the imposter, her grandparents and her new friend, Brad. Will the bible verses and other inspirational notes she finds in a canning jar help her to forgive and move forward with a positive outlook on life and love?

Brunstetter has written an absolute gem. There are twists worthy of any action-adventure movie, except the excitement is from emotion instead of car chases and explosions. The author is writing from personal knowledge of Amish practices, so the novel is purely authentic.

I give The Forgiving Jar 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a great read for fans of chaste romance and/or religious fiction. If you aren’t a fan of books with religious themes, take a pass on this one.

My thanks to Barbour Publishing, Inc. and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a big fan of Amish books, read them all the time and really enjoy them. I have read almost all of Wanda's, she has quite a few out. This book was a pure delight to read it picked up right where the first book in the series left off. I do recommend reading The Prayer Jars first to get the full benefit of the back story. It does explain the back story in this book but you'll really want to read the first one anyways. Tensions run high at the beginning of the book. Given the circumstances it is understandable despite the grandparents talking to both girls and trying to make a calm environment. Tensions abate though after awhile. The Amish are very forgiving people and aim to live their daily lives in honor of God. Whenever I read one of Wanda's books I always feel enriched for the life lessons I take away from it. Looking forward to reading the third book in this series.
Feb 1, 2019 publication date.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 3 out of 5]

three and a half stars.
Sara Murray never met her mother’s Amish parents until after her mother had died. But when she goes to visit her grandparents, another woman is living there claiming to be her. The woman left when Sarah arrived. Now some time later when she goes back, Sara finds her grandparents have forgiven the interloper and the woman, Michelle is back living with them. How can they so easily forgive her deception? Sara harbours more than a little resentment for Michelle’s deception. She will not easily forgive. While staying there Sara meets Brad Fuller, who is studying for the ministry. She is attracted but doesn’t want him to know she is not a Christian. Then Sara finds a canning jar full of prayers. Who wrote them? Can prayer really make a difference? Sara is not convinced.
I remembered I had read book 1 of this series but forgot I wasn’t that thrilled with the story at the time. However I enjoyed this one more. Even so, I found the character of Sara to be rather whiny with her ‘poor me,’ attitude. And some aspects seem to happen a little too quickly for this reader. But, all in all, a sweet, engaging, if predictable, book.
Sara’s grandparents and Ezekiel are lovely. It took longer to warm to Sara. I am sure those who make Amish fiction part of their reading diet will love it and there are two recipes included at the end for those so inclined.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE FORGIVING JAR by Wanda E. Brunstetter is #2 in The Prayer Jars series and is a continuation of THE HOPE JAR #1 in the series. Although THE FORGIVING JAR can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading THE HOPE JAR first.

This sweet, heartwarming novel set in a small community in Pennsylvania, will tug at your heartstrings. Two troubled young ladies with trust and other issues are shown love and forgiveness by an elderly Amish couple. I enjoyed learning about the Amish way of life, and watching Michelle and Sara grow and mature. I even shed a tear or two.
This book of anger, hurt, love, suspense, faith, forgiveness and second chances should appeal to those who enjoy reading Amish fiction, Christian fiction, and sweet romance novels.

My thanks to Barbour Publishing, Inc., Shiloh Run Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book, which enables me to write my unbiased thoughts and opinions in this review.

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar begins right where The Hope Jar ended. Michelle Taylor and Ezekiel King are on their way back to Willis and Mary Ruth Lapp's house . In the previous book Michelle had deceived the Lapps making them believe she was their granddaughter , Sara Murray. Before the truth had been discovered Michelle had fled to another town to escape the consequences of her past actions. Now as they draw closer to the Lapp farm she is riddled with anxiety and doubts as she fears Mary Ruth and Willis will be unwilling to except her apology for all the hurt she has caused in their lives.
Sara Murray unfortunately has lost her job in Newark New Jersey. She has decided to move to Strasburg Pennsylvania to be close to her Amish Grandparents. She hopes to find work there and take the opportunity to get to know them better. Sara's mother recently died leaving her with a lot of unanswered questions about her past. She had no idea who her biological father was. All these years of growing up with her mother and step father she didn't know that her mother had grown up Amish. Sara wrestles with unforgiveness towards both her mother and Michelle Taylor , the girl who pretended to be her, all summer long. Arriving at her grandparents she is surprised and not happy to learn she won't get to have time alone with them. Sara will have to share them with the pretender from last summer.
Once again Wanda Brunstetter captured me from the beginning. I've really enjoyed both books in the series. I felt sorry for both girls. Michelle who basically had no family received love and forgiveness from Mary Ruth and Willis. Sara was hurt beyond words that her mother had never told her who her real father was or that she hadn't introduced her to her loving grandparents. Once again several times in the story this reader was bought to tears. The Forgiving Jar is a warm hearted story where two hurting girls find the love they needed from a wonderful older Amish couple.
All readers of Christian Fiction , Amish Fiction or fans of Wanda Brunstetter will enjoy this book. I would advise that the Hope Jar, book one in the series be read first because this book continues on where book one stopped.
I was given a copy of The Forgiving Jar from the author and publisher. I was not asked to give a positive review . In this review I have shared my honest thoughts and opinions on how I felt about this book.

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many of y'all know me, and know that one of my favorite genres to read is Amish fiction. Among that Amish fiction, there is this really amazingly talented author who never fails to hook me, keep me focused on the story, and make me feel as if I was a character within the pages as I follow the ups, downs, ins and outs of her beloved characters' lives. That author is Wanda Brunstetter. She is phenomenal. So, I looked forward to opening up the next book in her Prayer Jars series. Let me tell you this: She did not disappoint me. In fact, I was blown away with this story. 

Ms. Brunstetter has woven a tender story with this book. It's full of secrets and twists, but also full of hope, longing, forgiving and grace. Sara and Brad's characters are tenderly chiseled together to create a few sparks of romance blooming within the book, and Michelle's character.....well, let me say that at first, I wanted to hate her, for assuming a life that wasn't her own. But, through the words of Ms. Brunstetter, through the forgiving grace of God, I was able to see why she did it, and much like the story line suggests, and forgive her for it, the same as if she truly did it to me. 

The way Ms. Brunstetter makes me feel at the end of the book, like she wrote solely for me (which, of course, I know she did not but that's how good her writing is!), has once again left me ready for her next book in the series so I can feel this way again. The Forgiving Jar is a tender story, one that makes the reader sit and reflect about forgiving and letting go of the pain and the past, and focus on the here and now. Anything less than a 5 star praise for this book, would not be doing it justice. Well done, Ms. Brunstetter. Well done. 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Shiloh Run Press and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

[Ell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely, feel good series that flows from front to back. Sara is the grand-daughter of an Amish couple living in Amish country Pennsylvania. She had not met her maternal grandparents until her mother’s death. She was quite surprised to find out her mother had been raised Amish. Sara was even more surprised to find out that her impostor (Michelle) was living with her grandparents, totally forgiven for her deceit. This is a story of transitions and sweet forgiveness with a dash romance and a sprinkling of suspense thrown in. Although this is the second in the series and it can stand on its own, I recommend reading The Hope Jar first because it is a beautiful story that provides rich context for the second in the series.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second in the series of the Jar trilogy. The same characters are in each book, just a continuation of the story about a young woman who discovers her mother was Amish after her mother dies. She reaches out to her grandparents and when she comes to visit them she finds another young woman has pretended to be her. In this book Michelle and Sara are both living with the Amish grandparents. Anxious to,read the final book which comes out this August.

[LINDA BOURG · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is the second book in the prayer jar series. I enjoyed it as much as the first part. Loved the characters and really felt like part of the lapp family. Loved the happy ending even though i had figured out that would happen i loved reading the story. Next is book three the healing jar. will get to that one soon.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter has us returning to Strasburg, Pennsylvania. Sara Murray is returning to her grandparent’s farm for the Thanksgiving holiday. The dentist she worked for recently retired and Sara would like to relocate to Strasburg to be closer to her grandparents. She is hoping she can live with them while looking for a job and apartment. When Sara arrived at the Lapp farm for the first time, she was shocked to find a woman impersonating her. Sara has no tolerance for people who lie, deceive and keep secrets since she learned of her mother’s secrets. When Sara arrives at the farm, she is surprised to see Michelle Taylor, the imposter, is once again living with Willis and Mary Ruth Lapp. Her grandparents tell Sara that Michelle returned to explain her actions and apologized to them. They have forgiven Michelle and invited her to live with them. Sara does not understand how they can easily forgive Michelle’s deception. Sara moves into the farmhouse and struggles to live with Michelle. She meets Brad Fuller, a theological student, when he visits at Christmas who had met Michelle the previous summer. Sara is drawn to Brad and she can tell he is attracted to her. However, Brad seems to keep his distance which confuses Sara. One day Sara finds an old canning jar in the cellar filled with slips of paper. Each slip has a different Bible verse or inspirational message. These messages provide Sara with encouragement and hope. Can Sara find a way to overcome her mother’s deceptions as well as Michelle’s? Is forgiveness in Sara’s future? Come along for Sara’s journey in The Forgiving Jar.

The Forgiving Jar is the second book in The Prayer Jar series. While The Forgiving Jar could be read as a standalone, I suggest reading The Hope Jar first. It will provide you with Michelle’s complete story and help you understand her motivations. I thought The Forgiving Jar was well-written with gentle pacing. I did find the story to be a little slow in the middle. I was drawn into the story and wanted to find out what would happen with Sara and Michelle. Sara has a hard time grappling with the concept of forgiveness. Her mother kept secrets from her and then Michelle impersonated her. Sara has trust issues and does not understand how her grandparents can easily forgive Michelle for her deception. We get to see how the slips of paper in an old canning jar help Sara understand the importance of forgiveness and being a Christian. The slips in the canning jar were encouraging, inspirational, guiding and thought provoking. With Michelle and Sara living in the same household, it is rife with tension. Mary Ruth talks with Sara about the issue. After that, Mary Ruth prays and leaves the issue in God’s hands. There is romance in the story as Michelle and Ezekiel King draw closer to each other. One of my favorite phrases was “turn your cares into prayers.” I did have trouble with Sara. She has a giant chip on her shoulder plus she is extremely resentful of Michelle. As time goes by, Sara along with Michelle mature. I liked seeing the women evolve, learn from their mistakes and grow in their faith. I look forward to reading The Healing Jar when it comes out. The Forgiving Jar is a sweet, heartwarming story that will touch your heart.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in The Prayer Jars series. I recommend you read the first book before this one as it sets the stage for the continuing story. Michelle and Sara, have lived vastly different lives, not only from one another, but also from the Amish community where they are both living in this story. After getting to know Michelle in the first book, I really like her, but Sara is another story. She is spiteful, unforgiving, judgmental and not very easy to like. Both Sara and Michelle are living with Sara's grandparents in their Amish Community, associating in church, work, and social events with the Amish they see and envy the peace that they have. Michelle is ready to be part of the community permanently, has fallen in love with an Amish man and is taking classes to become baptized. Sara is sure that Michelle is after something and this seems to harden her heart towards her. You will need to read this story to see what happens to both of these ladies as well as how the Prayer Jars help them out.

I will say that I did not enjoy this book as much as The Hope Jar. This one was more "preachy" and harder to get involved in, however it was still a very enjoyable read. I also listened to the audiobook and the voice the narrator gave the character of Sara came across as whiny, which might be why I had a hard time connecting to her. Having said that, there are sweet romances in this story and they had a bumpy road at times. There is also some sadness surrounding Sara's life.The main theme is this story is the need for and the act of forgiveness. Realizing that forgiveness is not just for others, but for our own redemption, to clear hate from our hearts. Wanda Brunstetter writes books that are clean, gentle stories filled with Christian beliefs where flawed characters are given the opportunity to believe and sort out their lives. This is another winner that her readers will enjoy.

[Lilian · Rating 1 out of 5]

Review:
I read The Hope Jar (first book in The Prayer Jars series), and I enjoyed it! So when I saw The Forgiving Jar on NetGalley, I knew I wanted to get it. And while it didn't exactly meet my expectations, I still think it has some good themes of forgiveness (of course hehe), love, and redemption.

What I Liked:
- Like I said, there are some great themes! I think the author did a good job in weaving them in.
- I liked the setting! I've always liked reading Amish stories, and the book definitely showcased the Amish lifestyle.

What I Didn't Like:
- The main characters seem really pouty and spoiled at times, which really irritated me.
- Most of the side characters, claiming to be Christian, were really unforgiving and annoying, and I found it unrealistic that they suddenly decided to forgive Michelle after one random thing she did. And the two characters who were forgiving towards Michelle forgave her a little too easily. I certainly think a good amount of balance could have been employed in this story.

Overall:
Definitely not my favorite by Mrs. Brunstetter. I do think I would've liked the book a little better if not for the annoying characters. :/ 1.5 stars.

*FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a free ecopy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.*

[Gemma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first Armish / christian book I have read and i found it delightful. Although this was the second in a series I didn't I couldn't catch up with the plot. I will however read the next book! There is alot that can be taken from this book and alot of lovely verses and references. A real lesson in love and forgiveness. Well written and very enjoyable. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Abby Stopka · Rating 5 out of 5]

So like the 1st book and the beginning I did not like the main character as I thought she was stuck up and definitely was not an understanding person but as the book went along I found that she definitely developed into a great person. Definitely glad to spend more time with Mary Ruth Willis Michel is Ruth Willis Michelle Sarah Brad and Ezekiel and Ezekiel will be starting the 3rd book in this series and I'm going to be kinda sad after I finish the next book. This book was actually pretty good even though it made me very angry and some spots.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book in the series, so I was excited to read this one, and I found it to be just as enjoyable.

The story continues to follow Michelle and Sara, who’s now returned to stay with her grandparents. Therefore, it would be quite helpful to read the books in order. Characters are realistic, though Sara does come across as a bit annoying at times with her tendency to hold on to her jealousy and anger. I enjoyed watching each girl go through struggles and insecurities on their way to becoming who God designed them to be. There is a bit of romance along the way. While there were a couple twists, some parts were a bit predictable. However, it was a sweet, relatively quick read overall. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

On another note, I’m looking forward to trying the two included recipes (Sara’s Pumpkin Bread and Mary Ruth’s Turkey Vegetable Soup.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second book in the series. Sara is the featured character in the book as she comes to live with her Amish grandparents, Mary Ruth and Willis King. Michelle is questioning her future. Sara is living with challenges from her past. Both she and Michelle are searching in the mysterious jar with the messages of encouragement and Bible verses. Ezekiel and Brad are important characters in the story after being possible love interests for Michelle in the first book.
I like how the author handles the friction between the girls and the living ways of the older Amish couple. The two young women grow in maturity and faith as the story progresses. I am pleased with how the book ended.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of this book. I really hope that the series continues. I want to know what happens with cousin Lenore. This is a very good story about the power of being an unforgiving person and how things change when forgiveness is chosen.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in this series by Wanda!! Glad both Sara and Michelle got happy ending in this book. Can't wait for book 3 in August!!

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This contemporary Christian/Amish novel is the sequel to The Hope Jar, and just like it, this isn't your typical Amish romance novel at all.

"Sara Murray had never met her mother’s parents and was surprised to learn after her death that they were Amish living in Pennsylvania. When she is finally able to make the trip to meet them, she is shocked to learn someone else has been living with them and pretending to be Sara. Sara can’t understand how quickly her grandparents are willing to forgive the imposter.

Secrets and deceit seem to follow Sara, and she is so tired of it. Though soon she meets Brad Fuller who is visiting her grandparents for during Christmas. She likes him a lot, but even he seems to pull away from her, not being totally honest.

Struggling, Sara finds an old canning jar hidden in the barn that is full of encouraging prayers. Can Sara find a way to forgive the past and move on to building new relationships?"

Having enjoyed The Hope Jar a great deal, I was excited to read this second book in the Prayer Jars series, but I just didn't like this book as much as I did the first one for several reasons. First, Sara irritates me a great deal throughout the first third of the book by being so insecure, whiny, and combative. Second, Sara ends up becoming a great friend to Michelle practically overnight after having been so suspicious of and antagonistic to her, which was just unrealistic. Third, Michelle's decision to become Amish seemed really fast, and she seemed to have no obstacles from the Amish church in her way after she decided to join. Last, Sara and Brad's relationship was so underdeveloped that I just found it incredulous that they were engaged at the end of the novel. Anyhow, it was still a decently written book with well developed characters, and I still want to read the next (and what I think is the last) book of the series.

[Patricia Bond · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar is the second book in New York Best Selling author, Wanda Brunstetter's The Prayer Jar series. Her first book in the series is titled, The Hope Jar and the story in The Forgiving Jar picks up where The Hope Jar ended.
Sara Murray has moved to Lancaster County Pennsylvania to live with her grandparents, Willis and Mary Ruth Lapp. When Sara arrives she is surprised to find Michelle Taylor, the young woman who passed herself off as Sara ( in the book The Hope Jar) living with them. Sara is not thrilled that MIchelle is living there and the two of them are not getting along. They both are in competition for the Lapp's attention. Can the Lapps cope with the jealousy between the two girls, for long. Sara also does not trust Michelle motives, especially when she learns that Michelle wants to become a member of the Amish community.
While in the cellar, Sara discovers a jar that is filled with slips of paper that contain scripture, prayers and words of encouragement. Sara starts to read the slips and still the writer of them is still a mystery.
Love is blooming for Michelle and Ezekiel King, but in order to take their relationship to the next level, maybe marriage, Michelle must join the Amish Church. Can Michelle go through this commitment and also there a still a few members of the Amish community, who have their doubts about Michelle.
Love may also be blooming for Sara and Brad Fuller, the young man who is studying to become a minister and who also worked on the Lapps farm during the summer. Sara though must deal with her past, and like the quote on one of the slips found in one of the Prayer Jars: "Leave the past where it belongs - in the past. Look forward to the future that has been planned for you." Will it take a tragedy to make Sara realize this.
I really, really enjoyed reading The Forgiving Jar and highly recommend that you read this wonderful book. I would suggest reading The Hope Jar first, if you can, so you can become familiar with how this story began.
If you are looking to read a story that is about overcoming jealousy, forgiveness, romance, new beginnings, and some encouragement. I recommend getting a copy of The Forgiving Jar.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of The Forgiving Jar by Barbour Publishing and the great author who wrote it, Wanda Brunstetter. I hope you will enjoy reading it, as much as I did This is most certainly a FIVE STAR book.

w

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar picks up where The Hope Jar ended, however; there’s enough background that it could be read as a standalone. The Lapp’s biological granddaughter, Sara had difficulty accepting that they would allow Michelle, the imposter granddaughter in the Hope Jar, to reside with them after all her deceitfulness and stealing from them. There’s plenty of action, with characters learning to forgive, some having to suffer more heartbreak and losses before they found that God truly loved them. A story that at times was unrealistic (I know its fiction). There are plenty of family regrets for Sara and Michelle that they needed to heal from and find forgiveness. An old jar filled with scriptures, prayers and thoughts that Sara found in the basement, just may be the answer for her when she’s called back to Newark, NJ with her step father’s accident. There is a good faith message in this book and gems individuals can apply to their own lives in learning to forgive others that have hurt them deeply. I look forward to reading The Healing Jar, book three, to see the conclusion to The Prayer Jars series by Brunstetter.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, but have expressed my own sincere thoughts.

[Vera Godley · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been awhile since I read one of Wanda Brunstetter's books. Her books are always gentle reads, clean, and filled with heart warming Christian tenets that aid in straightening out lives of flawed characters.

The two feminine protagonists, Michelle and Sara, have lived prior to the opening pages of The Forgiving Jar lives vastly different from the Amish whose community they have now embedded themselves. They are lying, deceitful, spiteful, and a host of other unpleasant characteristics that really made me dislike them.

As they go about living within the confines of the grandparent's Amish home and associating in church, work, and social events with the Amish they see and envy the peace that these dear folks have.

There are sweet romances in the story and there are times of sorrow. The need for and act of forgiveness are uppermost in this read. Ms. Brunstetter has penned another story that her followers will love.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

[J.C. · Rating 2 out of 5]

**I recieved a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**

I have recently developed a love for Amish fiction, and have spent many hours reading about the culture and its beliefs. Having said this, The Forgiving Jar, while pure and wholesome at its thematic core, unfortunately fell short to me everywhere else.

On the positive side, I did appreciate the heart behind the novel. I also have to put a disclaimer out that I did not read the first book in this series. I received a free copy from Netgalley, and was unaware that it was a series. However, having said this, I have still written my review with that in mind. I also need to note that this review is simply why I was as disappointed with this novel. I do not wish to insult the author, her character, or the publisher.

To begin with: my first issue was with the characters. Unfortunately, I felt no connection to any of them. Sara and Michelle were impossible to tell apart; I frequently had to check back, even up into the last chapters of the book, on whose point of view I was reading—I couldn’t keep them straight. Actually, the only difference that I can think of between the two of them is that Michelle became a Christian first. To be honest, I found them both annoying. They constantly contradicted themselves and never really seemed to understand anything or empathize with anyone. The only time I saw any emotion is when Rascal, Michelle’s dog, dies, but even that was nearly impossible to connect with; I didn’t care for Michelle and subsequently not for her dog. To elaborate: in the beginning, Sara explains nonchalantly how, “As a child, [she] had envied other kids whose grandparents doted on them. Her stepfather’s parents lived in Canada, and they traveled a lot...Unfortunately, on one of their trips, they’d been killed when their plane crashed. So she had grown up with no grandparents at all” (Loc 138). This is simply stated like it’s just another everyday thing, without any sort of emotion attached to it.

Later, after Sara’s stepdad dies, she narrates about her brother, “Kenny’s graduation had taken place last week, and even though he still missed his dad, he’d been in an upbeat mood. Sara knew it was because, thanks to the inheritance he’d recieved in September, Kenny would be attending the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia” (loc 3453). When I relayed these course of events to my brother, he said, “Sounds like they killed off their father so they could get the money.” Though this is not explicitly spelled out, it would be very easy to make that inference based on the lack of emotion in the characters and, of course, the convenient way they come into a sum of money upon their dad’s death.

Moving on: Mary Ruth and Willis were sickeningly perfect. All Mary Ruth did was pray and cook food, and I didn’t see her or Willis do so much as think a slightly-off thought throughout the entire book. My main problem with this was that this was the first impression readers have of Christianity in the novel.

Generally, I was constantly confused as to what had happened with whom, and who was connected to whom, and whose family was whose; I had great difficulty keeping everything straight. Characters would often would randomly appear and disappear, without any strong clues as to who they were, where they came from, or their purpose in the story.

The plot was full of “filler scenes” and fluff that I saw no purpose to; I had trouble following the plot. Similarly, the conflict was hard to identify and felt hollow. Many scenes felt pointless and not thought-out at all. For example, in one scene, Ezekiel, Michelle’s beau, climbs on Sara’s roof to write a message in the frost for Michelle, telling her to go to the barn (where he is waiting to surprise her). Later, “Sara couldn’t help feeling...jealous of Michelle. Her boyfriend cared so much about her...he had risked life and limb to leave Michelle a message on Grandma and Grandpa’s frosty roof this morning” (Loc 2623). To which I say: that’s not love, that’s immaturity! That’s not risking your life for love—as the book implied—that’s making a fool of yourself to look good. Furthermore, throughout the story were scattered random dramatic events that go nowhere. In one scene, Sara (or was it Michelle?) witnesses a car accident and there’s all this drama—then it’s never spoken of again.

My main frustration with this novel, though, is how it seemed to believe that Amish and Christian are interchangeable terms. In actuality, they are very different. The Amish and Christian churches definitely have similar beliefs, but they are not interchangeable, which is why all the characters becoming saved through the Amish church really bothered me. Yes, the Amish can find the saving grace of Jesus—anyone can, after all—but the Amish church has some core differences from the Christian church. You can totally have an Amish character who finds Jesus; but a character does not get saved simply by becoming Amish.

Overall, I found this book to be a rough read, much to my dismay. The characters were flat and hollow, the plot was full of fluff that left me skimming chapters, and the message about Christianity was off-center. Not a read I would recommend.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar ( The Prayer Jars Book #2 )
By: Wanda E. Brunstetter
The Forgiving Jar is book two by Wanda Brunstetter in her new series The Prayer Jars. I would suggest reading the first book, The Hope Jar, first . Love the story and the characters , both were well written. I did read The Hope Jar and was proud that The Forgiving Jar picks up where the first book left off. I could not put it down, I was not disappointed. The author writes of love, faith, forgiveness, and second chances. Sarah and Michelle both have some issues and mistrust is a big problem. I really enjoyed the grandparents and how trusting they were. I highly recommend The Forgiving Jar. I cant wait to read book three .
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Barbour Publishing , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

Wanda Brunstetter writes amazing books. Two young women living with a living Amish couple learn to overcome decitfulness and learn to forgive and come to find love. Wonderful book that I highly recommend. I can't wait for the next book.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgiving Jar is the fabulous addition from Wanda Brunstetter’s The Prayer Jars series. I just loved this book and enjoyed catching up with the characters from the first book of the series. I highly recommend for readers to read The Hope Jar before starting this one. The is a perfect story for anyone struggling to forgive themselves or others. Mrs Brunstetter has the best books for faith and inspiration and this one is no exception.
The Forgiving Jar would be getting one hundred stars if it was possible. I loved it and highly recommend it. It is among my favorites of Amish Fiction.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Jypsy]

The Forgiving Jar is a warm hearted lovely story. I did not read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble understanding this one. I like Amish set books, and this one is so good! You will love it if this is your type of book.