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Sedgwick County Chronicles #1
Roots of Wood and Stone
Abandoned at birth, her family roots a mystery, historical museum curator Sloane Kelley has dedicated her life to making sure others know theirs. When a donor drops off a dusty old satchel, she doesn't expect much from the common artifact . . .until she finds real treasure inside: a nineteenth-century diary. Now she's on the hunt to find out more.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2021
42 people are currently reading
1102 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Wen
7 books334 followersAmanda Wen’s debut novel, Roots of Wood and Stone, released to both reader and critical acclaim, including a Christy Award nomination for First Novel. She also placed first in multiple contests, including the 2017 Indiana Golden Opportunity Contest, the 2017 Phoenix Rattler Contest, and the 2016 ACFW First Impressions Contest, among others.
In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.
In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
May 8, 2022
What a wonderful debut! I didn't want to put this one down at all as I found it quite intriguing. The romance wasn't too sappy, no miscommunication (which drives me crazy), not tedious, and it had many spiritual elements throughout. No crude language (yeah, happens in Christian fiction lately). I liked how it was based upon actual characters.....being a visual person in a sense, I would preferred to have a family tree chart at the back so I could keep the connections straight!.....I can't remember who was related to who( being middle aged and so tired these days ;) Otherwise, I am looking forward to her next book as she is an author I certainly don't mind recommending and passes my " like enough to read another by this same author test" so to speak. If I didn't enjoy the first book, I most likely won't bother again with galores of marvelous ones to savoured!
March 11, 2021
If you ever get your hands on someone's personal diary, what would you do? No doubt you won’t read it. (I hope!) Now assume that this diary is more than 150 years old and seems to provide a beautiful glimpse into the life of the past. What a lovely journey of discovery it would be for a history buff!
That is exactly what Sloane Kelley feels like when she is handed over a diary written by someone named Annabel Collins. What initially seems just like a dusty old diary soon turns out to be a fascinating journey into the past. For Sloane, an adopted child with no knowledge of her own roots, this diary seems like a miracle.
Garrett Anderson, in whose house the diary was discovered, finds himself caught at crossroads: he needs funds to ensure the wellbeing of his sick grandmother, he wants to climb up the corporate ladder in his job, he wants to support his sister who has given up a lot to shift into their grandma’s house, and he finds himself inexplicably attracted to Sloane, who in turn is excited about the discovery of the diaries. What should Garrett take care of first? What will Sloane discover about her lineage? Who is Annabel Collins and why was her diary in Garrett’s house?
This book, to put it in one word, is amazing! Though it is more than 300 pages long, the writing is such that you keep moving ahead at full throttle without any hurdles. The book is a Christian fiction -- something I didn’t realise while requesting the ARC -- so it is a nice, clean romance. Absolutely good for readers who are fed up of characters jumping into bed with each other on the first date.
We get to read the story from the perspectives of three characters: Sloane, Annabel, and Garrett. Each of them is portrayed so well that you feel like you know them in and out. Whether Annabel in 1871 or the modern-day Sloane and Garrett, the thinking of the characters is appropriately adapted to suit the times they live in. Other than these principal characters, I also loved how Garrett’s relationship with his grandmother and his sister Lauren is portrayed. The brother-sister relationship especially is so realistic that I could actually picture the two of them bickering externally while having loads of affection for each other in their hearts. Garrett seems too good to be true. A perfect candidate for having a literary crush on! ;)
If you are looking for a feel-good, relaxing, satisfying, non-chick-lit, romantic read, this will be perfect for you. You will turn over the last page with a smile on your face and a sigh in your heart.
Thank you, NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group/Kregel Publications, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
That is exactly what Sloane Kelley feels like when she is handed over a diary written by someone named Annabel Collins. What initially seems just like a dusty old diary soon turns out to be a fascinating journey into the past. For Sloane, an adopted child with no knowledge of her own roots, this diary seems like a miracle.
Garrett Anderson, in whose house the diary was discovered, finds himself caught at crossroads: he needs funds to ensure the wellbeing of his sick grandmother, he wants to climb up the corporate ladder in his job, he wants to support his sister who has given up a lot to shift into their grandma’s house, and he finds himself inexplicably attracted to Sloane, who in turn is excited about the discovery of the diaries. What should Garrett take care of first? What will Sloane discover about her lineage? Who is Annabel Collins and why was her diary in Garrett’s house?
This book, to put it in one word, is amazing! Though it is more than 300 pages long, the writing is such that you keep moving ahead at full throttle without any hurdles. The book is a Christian fiction -- something I didn’t realise while requesting the ARC -- so it is a nice, clean romance. Absolutely good for readers who are fed up of characters jumping into bed with each other on the first date.
We get to read the story from the perspectives of three characters: Sloane, Annabel, and Garrett. Each of them is portrayed so well that you feel like you know them in and out. Whether Annabel in 1871 or the modern-day Sloane and Garrett, the thinking of the characters is appropriately adapted to suit the times they live in. Other than these principal characters, I also loved how Garrett’s relationship with his grandmother and his sister Lauren is portrayed. The brother-sister relationship especially is so realistic that I could actually picture the two of them bickering externally while having loads of affection for each other in their hearts. Garrett seems too good to be true. A perfect candidate for having a literary crush on! ;)
If you are looking for a feel-good, relaxing, satisfying, non-chick-lit, romantic read, this will be perfect for you. You will turn over the last page with a smile on your face and a sigh in your heart.
Thank you, NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group/Kregel Publications, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
June 4, 2021
This book I could easily have read overnight, but I'm so glad my crazy busy scheduled forced me to savor it. The characters stole my heart and the story was so beautifully woven. It was all I could do not to holler at Garrett at the apex of the story (I may have lol). The only thing that didn't sit completely right with me as an adoptive mother, was some of the things the adoptive mother said to the main character. I hope most adoptive children don't experience that, as it's never been my point of view or that of other adoptive moms I know, but I do realize the situation Sloane grew up with could be plausible. And in the backstory woven for her, it made the history of the story all the more powerful. Beautiful story, excellent debut. These characters will stay with me for a while.
January 26, 2021
'I stopped talking with God altogether. Either he didn't exist, or his purpose was to gut me like a fish. Whichever it was, I was through.'
Reading is one of the absolute joys of my life and when I read a book that just ticks all the boxes and moves me greatly, that brings even greater joy. This is such a book.
Amanda Wen has written a stunning debut novel, a time slip that will have you falling in love with all the characters. From the 1800s Annabelle and Jack to current day Sloane and Garrett, not to mention wonderful secondary characters. Wen has that rare gift of being able to create a character that is very nearly a living, breathing person to her readers. I love it so much when I can connect with characters. Wen drops you right down in that story with them! Her book shows that even present generations can learn from the actions of the past. What I loved, well, one thing I loved, because I loved it all, was how strong the spiritual theme here was. And that theme is: trust God with your plans for your life. First. Don't try to do it yourself. He has the best plans.
Extremely well written and resonating with God's grace and love, populated with amazing characters, this one is most definitely for the keeper shelf. It's on my top reads list for 2021! Highly recommended.
My thanks to Kregel Publications for an early copy of this book via Net Galley. I received no compensation and the opinion in this review is entirely my own.
Reading is one of the absolute joys of my life and when I read a book that just ticks all the boxes and moves me greatly, that brings even greater joy. This is such a book.
Amanda Wen has written a stunning debut novel, a time slip that will have you falling in love with all the characters. From the 1800s Annabelle and Jack to current day Sloane and Garrett, not to mention wonderful secondary characters. Wen has that rare gift of being able to create a character that is very nearly a living, breathing person to her readers. I love it so much when I can connect with characters. Wen drops you right down in that story with them! Her book shows that even present generations can learn from the actions of the past. What I loved, well, one thing I loved, because I loved it all, was how strong the spiritual theme here was. And that theme is: trust God with your plans for your life. First. Don't try to do it yourself. He has the best plans.
Extremely well written and resonating with God's grace and love, populated with amazing characters, this one is most definitely for the keeper shelf. It's on my top reads list for 2021! Highly recommended.
My thanks to Kregel Publications for an early copy of this book via Net Galley. I received no compensation and the opinion in this review is entirely my own.
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October 30, 2020Full review to come.
Fans of Christian fiction, you'll want to order a copy of Amanda Wen's debut. She did such a beautiful job!
Fans of Christian fiction, you'll want to order a copy of Amanda Wen's debut. She did such a beautiful job!
April 6, 2021
Fabulous debut.
I so love novels steeped in the history of the author. This lovely dual-time book is a prime example. Ms. Wen draws on extensive research into her family tree to give us a exceptional story of life, love and lessons learned.
It is a fabulous story of Sloane Kelley who is adopted and feels the loss of her own history. She is a curator at a historical museum in Wichita, Kansas when Garrett Anderson brings in an artifact discovered when he was clearing out his grandmother’s attic. Little did Sloane know how God would use an old satchel to answer her longing heart.
Garrett is a planner but he has forgotten to enter seeking God into his plans for the future. Together, Sloane and Garrett pour through old diaries and find their life answers. There are a lot of surprises along with laughter and tears. This author knows how to write romance and sizzling kisses!
Past and present meld in a fascinating way. And at the root of it all is a lesson both generations of characters learn: we all have worth in God and He can give us more than we deserve or expect.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
I so love novels steeped in the history of the author. This lovely dual-time book is a prime example. Ms. Wen draws on extensive research into her family tree to give us a exceptional story of life, love and lessons learned.
It is a fabulous story of Sloane Kelley who is adopted and feels the loss of her own history. She is a curator at a historical museum in Wichita, Kansas when Garrett Anderson brings in an artifact discovered when he was clearing out his grandmother’s attic. Little did Sloane know how God would use an old satchel to answer her longing heart.
Garrett is a planner but he has forgotten to enter seeking God into his plans for the future. Together, Sloane and Garrett pour through old diaries and find their life answers. There are a lot of surprises along with laughter and tears. This author knows how to write romance and sizzling kisses!
Past and present meld in a fascinating way. And at the root of it all is a lesson both generations of characters learn: we all have worth in God and He can give us more than we deserve or expect.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
March 20, 2021
Oh y’all. This book. I smiled. i laughed. I swooned. I cried (even sweet-reason ugly-cried at one point). I actually gasped out loud a time or two. It gently embraced some sore places in my heart and healed them a little too. And I drank in every word from beginning to end in one sitting, unable to put it down until the end – and then immediately regretted that my time with these characters & this story was finished for now.
Sloane and Garrett – and their respective journeys – are relatable and easily loved. Readers will adore them as individual characters but even more so together, as their friendship develops and begins to shift into something more romantic. I also found so poignant the juxtaposition of Sloane longing to discover where she came from even as Garrett struggles to preserve what he can of his own family history while also trying to do what’s best for his grandmother (more on that in a moment). As far as the historical thread, Annabelle’s story is so captivating and Jack is quite yummy. He’s the cause of most of my swoons in Roots of Wood and Stone – and some of my tears too. Sloane & Garrett both become so invested in unearthing Annabelle’s story that it’s difficult for me to separate the story threads for review purposes. Instead, the author seamlessly weaves the past & present together in such tender and beautiful ways that you really can’t have one storyline without the other.
As much as I loved solving the mystery of Annabelle along with Sloane and Garrett and watching them fall in love, I wanted to touch on the two elements to Roots of Wood and Stone that really set this novel apart for me. Garrett’s grandmother has Alzheimer’s, and typically I steer away from stories with this as a plot because of how deeply my family’s life has been touched by this horrible disease. Both of my own grandmothers (whom I was very close to) suffered from it. Watching Garrett and his sister interact with their grandmother touched a part of my heart that I’ve basically avoided since my grandmothers’ deaths. One scene in particular between Garrett and his grandmother and hymns had me sobbing with sweet memories of similar scenes with my own grandmothers, and I know this sounds odd but it was just such a soothing release, a release I didn’t know I needed. The mix of absolute tenderness and realism with which the author depicted Alzheimer’s Disease is one of the most accurate & honoring portrayals I’ve read in a novel. I’m so glad I decided to read it anyway!
The other element that I connected so strongly to is the theme of researching family history, of knowing where you came from and who helped shape you into who you are. My grandfather was a family history buff and nurtured that same bug in me, and I have had such fun over the years digging into my family tree and unearthing the stories that go with the names. This quote from the book is one I’ll include in my research materials, as a reminder of why I’m so passionate about genealogy work:
“A few names get all the attention, but the ones who don’t show up in the textbooks are just as important. We owe it to them to learn their stories. Sometimes it helps fill in our own blanks.”
Bottom Line: Roots of Wood and Stone is a phenomenal, touching debut that will linger with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Wen delivers a tender message of hope and restoration, while never overwhelming the story with preachiness or cliches. Tough situations and justified emotions are handled with grace, wisdom, and aptly-placed moments of joy and love. The past and present combine organically in this story that’s full of romance, family, and faith, and it has a firmly-secured spot on my top reads list for 2021! Very much looking forward to more time with these characters in future books.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at ReadingIsMySuperPower
Sloane and Garrett – and their respective journeys – are relatable and easily loved. Readers will adore them as individual characters but even more so together, as their friendship develops and begins to shift into something more romantic. I also found so poignant the juxtaposition of Sloane longing to discover where she came from even as Garrett struggles to preserve what he can of his own family history while also trying to do what’s best for his grandmother (more on that in a moment). As far as the historical thread, Annabelle’s story is so captivating and Jack is quite yummy. He’s the cause of most of my swoons in Roots of Wood and Stone – and some of my tears too. Sloane & Garrett both become so invested in unearthing Annabelle’s story that it’s difficult for me to separate the story threads for review purposes. Instead, the author seamlessly weaves the past & present together in such tender and beautiful ways that you really can’t have one storyline without the other.
As much as I loved solving the mystery of Annabelle along with Sloane and Garrett and watching them fall in love, I wanted to touch on the two elements to Roots of Wood and Stone that really set this novel apart for me. Garrett’s grandmother has Alzheimer’s, and typically I steer away from stories with this as a plot because of how deeply my family’s life has been touched by this horrible disease. Both of my own grandmothers (whom I was very close to) suffered from it. Watching Garrett and his sister interact with their grandmother touched a part of my heart that I’ve basically avoided since my grandmothers’ deaths. One scene in particular between Garrett and his grandmother and hymns had me sobbing with sweet memories of similar scenes with my own grandmothers, and I know this sounds odd but it was just such a soothing release, a release I didn’t know I needed. The mix of absolute tenderness and realism with which the author depicted Alzheimer’s Disease is one of the most accurate & honoring portrayals I’ve read in a novel. I’m so glad I decided to read it anyway!
The other element that I connected so strongly to is the theme of researching family history, of knowing where you came from and who helped shape you into who you are. My grandfather was a family history buff and nurtured that same bug in me, and I have had such fun over the years digging into my family tree and unearthing the stories that go with the names. This quote from the book is one I’ll include in my research materials, as a reminder of why I’m so passionate about genealogy work:
“A few names get all the attention, but the ones who don’t show up in the textbooks are just as important. We owe it to them to learn their stories. Sometimes it helps fill in our own blanks.”
Bottom Line: Roots of Wood and Stone is a phenomenal, touching debut that will linger with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Wen delivers a tender message of hope and restoration, while never overwhelming the story with preachiness or cliches. Tough situations and justified emotions are handled with grace, wisdom, and aptly-placed moments of joy and love. The past and present combine organically in this story that’s full of romance, family, and faith, and it has a firmly-secured spot on my top reads list for 2021! Very much looking forward to more time with these characters in future books.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at ReadingIsMySuperPower
November 22, 2021
1861-1894 & present day Kansas
Good debut!
Sloane Kelley was abandoned as a baby and yearns to find her biological family.
Garrett Anderson is a financial planner and likes everything planned. As he and his sister Lauren clean out his grandmother's house, they find some treasures from years ago.
Nice blend of the two time periods.
Good debut!
Sloane Kelley was abandoned as a baby and yearns to find her biological family.
Garrett Anderson is a financial planner and likes everything planned. As he and his sister Lauren clean out his grandmother's house, they find some treasures from years ago.
Nice blend of the two time periods.
November 26, 2020
A duel-timeline novel that strikes the perfect balance of time spent with the historical story and the contemporary. Amanda Wen is a writer to watch. I loved this book!
April 18, 2022
Charming & uplifting! Two sweet romances--one past & one present--each couple anchored by family relationships & guidance from God's word.
February 8, 2021
This book was awesome! What a story!
Ms. Wen has done a wonderful job with a time slip novel that doesn't miss a beat and really I loved Annabelle's story the best.
How wonderful to have a family history like that! This book got me to thinking. Do I want to try again to find my real family or do I just go with God's plan? I've tried once before and failed so that was why I felt like I was Sloane.
I really loved these characters and I didn't want this story to end.
I clapped when good things happened in the story and my heart was sad when the bad things in life got my favorite characters. Things that happened in the 1800's really aren't so different than today.
But I love how the author reminds us that we can't do things ourselves and that God has a bigger and better plan for us. God's way really is best but sometimes we forget that myself included.
This book was so awesome and the cover is just beautiful! Made me want to jump in the picture with Annabelle and Jack.
Yes, land, house and loved ones are precious but there is no love that is greater than God's. He is the one who leaves your heart feeling full and satisfied. Without Him we'd be nothing.
This is why I loved this story so much and this one will also be added to my 2021 list of favorites at the end of the year. This one spoke to my heart. This one is a gentle reminder of those things that we take for granted. Even in today's world we need God.
I highly recommend this book.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
5 stars!
Ms. Wen has done a wonderful job with a time slip novel that doesn't miss a beat and really I loved Annabelle's story the best.
How wonderful to have a family history like that! This book got me to thinking. Do I want to try again to find my real family or do I just go with God's plan? I've tried once before and failed so that was why I felt like I was Sloane.
I really loved these characters and I didn't want this story to end.
I clapped when good things happened in the story and my heart was sad when the bad things in life got my favorite characters. Things that happened in the 1800's really aren't so different than today.
But I love how the author reminds us that we can't do things ourselves and that God has a bigger and better plan for us. God's way really is best but sometimes we forget that myself included.
This book was so awesome and the cover is just beautiful! Made me want to jump in the picture with Annabelle and Jack.
Yes, land, house and loved ones are precious but there is no love that is greater than God's. He is the one who leaves your heart feeling full and satisfied. Without Him we'd be nothing.
This is why I loved this story so much and this one will also be added to my 2021 list of favorites at the end of the year. This one spoke to my heart. This one is a gentle reminder of those things that we take for granted. Even in today's world we need God.
I highly recommend this book.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
5 stars!
January 3, 2021
From Endorsement:
A moving, enchanting story of love and loss. Amanda Wen takes readers on an adventure that weaves past and present together in a beautiful tapestry of skillful storytelling. I was blown away by this book and its timeless message. So well done!
A moving, enchanting story of love and loss. Amanda Wen takes readers on an adventure that weaves past and present together in a beautiful tapestry of skillful storytelling. I was blown away by this book and its timeless message. So well done!
February 4, 2021
Roots of Wood and Stone is a poignant, warm, debut novel that left me pleasantly surprised...with a mysterious time-slip storyline that leaves ripples in a stream for years to come. I wasn't certain I could read this because I'm suffering from Covid, but the author wrote with such clarity I had no problems at all with comprehension. Amanda Wen is an impressive debut writer, whose future books I am indeed looking forward to!
*I received a complimentary copy of this this novel from Kregel Publications via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and I received no compensation.*
*I received a complimentary copy of this this novel from Kregel Publications via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and I received no compensation.*
May 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this book even though I was not sure in the beginning what to expect. A good diary story always pulls me in and this one certainly did, especially with old houses and a topic of adoption linked in it.
May 12, 2023
4.5⭐
I really enjoyed this story. A dual timeline that was filled with family history and mystery. About a woman who finds an old diary and dives into the history of a small house in Kansas and the people who lived there.
I really enjoyed this story. A dual timeline that was filled with family history and mystery. About a woman who finds an old diary and dives into the history of a small house in Kansas and the people who lived there.
April 13, 2025
Excellent story with dual timelines. I'm not always a fan of dual timelines because I often find myself favoring one over the other. But both were equally as engaging in this book. In modern day, Sloane works in a museum, which fits her quirky and curious nature. She loves digging through the history of things, although the one history that comes up short is her own history. After being abandoned as a baby, she searches her whole life to find her birth mother or information about her family, but nothing ever comes of any of her digging. One day, a guy named Garrett drops something off to the museum he wants to just get off of his hands, and although Sloane is initially irritated he sees the museum as a place to drop his junk, she discovers something unexpected he overlooked in his donation, and through that, they begin communicating about what she's found. It's a diary (where the dual timeline comes in) from the 1800's and the first settlers in that area. What was Garrett unknowingly doing with it? Neither of them know, and what they discover leads them on a journey that answers questions but produce even more questions, questions about who they are that only turning to God can answer.
A strong focal point of the story is also the house. The house Garretts grandma currently lives in and the house that is also a center point of the diaries. I fell in love with his house during the course of this story! And I also really loved how strong the faith based themes were as well. This is a strong Christian fiction read. Just a great book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
A strong focal point of the story is also the house. The house Garretts grandma currently lives in and the house that is also a center point of the diaries. I fell in love with his house during the course of this story! And I also really loved how strong the faith based themes were as well. This is a strong Christian fiction read. Just a great book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 8, 2021
What a stunning debut novel! I was captivated from page one and just as enamored with the 19th century story as the 21st century one. And yes, this is a dual timeline -- or split time -- novel.
Absolutely love the pioneer setting of Annabelle's story. I don't think I've seen that featured in a dual timeline novel before. Wen captured the heart and courage of these early settlers and highlights the rich legacy their steadfast faith and determination that still affects us to this day.
Honestly, I cried buckets over Annabelle's story -- both happy and sad tears. The kind that comes from celebrating a life well lived and loved. It got to the point where I'd tear up the second we slipped back into the 1800s just because I knew that her story had ended. (No spoiler alert -- we are in 2021, after all, and there's no doubt from the start that Annabelle has passed on.) But, oh, the legacy she leaves behind!
Fast forward into the 21st century to a whole different set of life challenges that both Garrett and Sloane face. It's Annabelle's diary that brings them together and the continued hunt for her truth that keeps them close...and then closer. Oh la la! The beauty of their emotionally charged love story put me on pins and needles the whole read through.
Garret with his plan-for-everything-and-never-deviate-from-said-plan persona finds an infinite amount of struggles with his ailing grandma and his sister's opposing views on how to take care of her. He's all detached practicality while she's emotionally decision minded. They need to come to a compromise that's in the best interest of their grandmother without breaking any hearts.
Especially Sloane's. Because she's become entangled in their stories and her desperate need to find roots and a sense of belonging is just one more challenge that's become both a burden and joy to Garrett.
For all the layered depths and relatable characters in this novel, it's Sloane's spiritual awakening that tugged at my heart the most. And it's Annabelle's century old writings that witness to Sloane and finally bring her the lasting peace of knowing that "She was loved. Chosen. Knit together, fearfully and wonderfully, in her mother's womb." Woohhheee -- I shed a tissue box worth of cleansing tears over that scene.
I'm excited to report, courtesy of the author's website, that a second book featuring Garrett's sister, Lauren, is in the works and -- squeeeeaaaallll -- another dual timeline that sounds all kinds of incredible. I can't wait!
Absolutely love the pioneer setting of Annabelle's story. I don't think I've seen that featured in a dual timeline novel before. Wen captured the heart and courage of these early settlers and highlights the rich legacy their steadfast faith and determination that still affects us to this day.
Honestly, I cried buckets over Annabelle's story -- both happy and sad tears. The kind that comes from celebrating a life well lived and loved. It got to the point where I'd tear up the second we slipped back into the 1800s just because I knew that her story had ended. (No spoiler alert -- we are in 2021, after all, and there's no doubt from the start that Annabelle has passed on.) But, oh, the legacy she leaves behind!
Fast forward into the 21st century to a whole different set of life challenges that both Garrett and Sloane face. It's Annabelle's diary that brings them together and the continued hunt for her truth that keeps them close...and then closer. Oh la la! The beauty of their emotionally charged love story put me on pins and needles the whole read through.
Garret with his plan-for-everything-and-never-deviate-from-said-plan persona finds an infinite amount of struggles with his ailing grandma and his sister's opposing views on how to take care of her. He's all detached practicality while she's emotionally decision minded. They need to come to a compromise that's in the best interest of their grandmother without breaking any hearts.
Especially Sloane's. Because she's become entangled in their stories and her desperate need to find roots and a sense of belonging is just one more challenge that's become both a burden and joy to Garrett.
For all the layered depths and relatable characters in this novel, it's Sloane's spiritual awakening that tugged at my heart the most. And it's Annabelle's century old writings that witness to Sloane and finally bring her the lasting peace of knowing that "She was loved. Chosen. Knit together, fearfully and wonderfully, in her mother's womb." Woohhheee -- I shed a tissue box worth of cleansing tears over that scene.
I'm excited to report, courtesy of the author's website, that a second book featuring Garrett's sister, Lauren, is in the works and -- squeeeeaaaallll -- another dual timeline that sounds all kinds of incredible. I can't wait!
February 2, 2021
Anyone who appreciates a good time-slip novel or who dabbles in genealogy will relish Amanda Wen's debut novel, Roots of Wood and Stone. In the story, museum curator Sloane Kelley feels inextricably drawn to Annabelle Collins (1800s) through the words penned in her diary and the home she once shared with her husband Jack. As Sloane helps the grandchildren of the home's current owner sort through family archives, she discovers a clue to her past. In looking back, she's able to find the courage and the faith to move forward.
Providence and adoption are two major themes Wen tackles in her novel. Of the two, providence was the message that resonated most with me. I liked how the author allowed a few of her characters to reflect back on their trials and see how God was working all things for their good. What a great reminder! The theme of adoption does take on a more spiritual element but in the beginning, it's tied closely to feelings of abandonment and unworthiness.
Roots of Wood and Stone is a rich and emotive story about family, faith, and healing.
Providence and adoption are two major themes Wen tackles in her novel. Of the two, providence was the message that resonated most with me. I liked how the author allowed a few of her characters to reflect back on their trials and see how God was working all things for their good. What a great reminder! The theme of adoption does take on a more spiritual element but in the beginning, it's tied closely to feelings of abandonment and unworthiness.
Roots of Wood and Stone is a rich and emotive story about family, faith, and healing.
February 3, 2021
Love love and love this story!! We all have times in life where we wrestle with the questions of who am I? Why am I here? No matter what the details of our stories may be we can be certain that God has woven each and every single piece for a reason. We are not here by accident, there is a specific purpose for every one of us. We may not fit into other people's plans, but we are certainly a part of His.
February 18, 2021
I absolutely love "Roots of Wood and Stone" by Amanda Wen. What an excellent debut novel! History, genealogy, and an excellent story in the past and present are woven together in this exceptional novel. The characters are well-developed, lovable, and I chuckled at their funny banter. I enjoyed every minute of it. I would love to read more about them!
I highly recommend Roots of Wood and Stone. Amanda Wen is an author to watch!
I highly recommend Roots of Wood and Stone. Amanda Wen is an author to watch!
February 15, 2021
This book sounded like a charming, small-town story of history, research, genealogy, caregiving, and searching for where a body belongs in this world of ours . . . and it delivered all that and so much more.
This is a split-time book, and in order for me to really get into it and enjoy it, all the elements of a good story must be present in both time periods . . . in essence, there must be two completed stories in the book, and this book delivered that wonderfully! I enjoyed both parts, although my favourite was the historical view point, which isn't surprising, considering I do tend to read more historical novels than contemporary books. I enjoyed the way the two parts melded into one, and how the history was slowly revealed through the parts. I also enjoyed the surprising discovery of the relatives of Annabelle, even though I was kinda thinking that it would be cool if *that* were the case.
In the contemporary parts, you had a researcher, Sloane, who was searching for her roots, trying to figure out where exactly she belonged in the world. Being adopted, she didn't have much information. The emotions she experienced throughout the book, and the emotional issues she dealt with were all so realistic, I could imagine that those who are adopted could actually really relate to her in that way. The way she lit up with each discovery of another piece of the puzzle was so sweet, and I loved the way Amanda Wen brought her to life. She was enthusiastic, sweet, uncertain, and stubborn, but by no means perfect.
Garret and Lauren had such a sweet brother/sister relationship. Sure, they argued, but they also admitted they were wrong, hugged each other, talked with each other, had fun with each other . . . their relationship was one of my favourite aspects of the whole story. It is so rare in fiction to see an accurate portrayal of a sibling relationship, and I really, really appreciated it. The way they worked together to care for their grandmother with Alzheimers was really sweet, as well, and I loved the way Garret was always teasing and picking at her, while still being encouraging and not taking it too far. The many comments about her cooking without gluten, sugar, eggs, using paleo ingredients, and his many complaints were hilarious, but the way he was always eating her food and enjoying it was too precious!
The relationship between Garret and Sloane was a bit of a downer for me, personally. To start off, they were great. It was a relationship built on working together to figure out the puzzle pieces in history. The wit and sarcasm were perfectly timed, and the the friendship developed slowly, but steadily. In the latter 1/3 of the book, all of a sudden it seemed as if they just became way too intimate way too quickly . . . but it could be me, 'cause I don't really appreciate romance like that. If you do, you may find it sweet. Me? I found it a bit much and there were several scenes that I skimmed through.
I didn't like the fact that it was a Christian novel and it seemed throughout the whole book as if they were only Christians because the reader had been told they were, if that makes sense. There was no evidence of being a Christian in their lives, only evidence of good morals. There were several times I was thinking, "Now would be a really good time to stop and pray and ask for God's guidance" but they just plunged on making their own plans anyways. Later in the book, toward the latter 1/8 of the book, Garret *does* realize he's been plunging on ahead without ever thinking about consulting God, and he does make amends . . . so that may have been a deliberate thing Mrs. Wen consciously decided to include/not include.
The historical aspect was my favourite. You have a very feisty heroine, Annabelle Collins, who is determined not to be left behind again. She leaves her nice, comfortable life to head west in the wagon and teach young children on the frontier. But she is SO much more than a cliched heroine, and I loved it.
To start with, she is faced with severe difficulties and trials. Every time she turns around, something happens, and it all drives her closer to her Lord. As we read through her journals, we were able to watch her grow up, marry, have children, and deal with everything life threw at her, in the best ways.
There were so many surprises along the way that it was absolutely lovely to read through! I never saw the end of Sloane's story happening the way it did, and it was pretty neat to see all the ends tied up in a nice, neat package.
In conclusion, I'd say that because of some details that are mentioned (abandonment and the reason behind it, kisses I skimmed through, etc.) that this would be a book for adult (18+) readers.
*I'm thankful to have received a copy of this book from Kregel Publications through the Read with Audra program. All thoughts are my own.*
This is a split-time book, and in order for me to really get into it and enjoy it, all the elements of a good story must be present in both time periods . . . in essence, there must be two completed stories in the book, and this book delivered that wonderfully! I enjoyed both parts, although my favourite was the historical view point, which isn't surprising, considering I do tend to read more historical novels than contemporary books. I enjoyed the way the two parts melded into one, and how the history was slowly revealed through the parts. I also enjoyed the surprising discovery of the relatives of Annabelle, even though I was kinda thinking that it would be cool if *that* were the case.
In the contemporary parts, you had a researcher, Sloane, who was searching for her roots, trying to figure out where exactly she belonged in the world. Being adopted, she didn't have much information. The emotions she experienced throughout the book, and the emotional issues she dealt with were all so realistic, I could imagine that those who are adopted could actually really relate to her in that way. The way she lit up with each discovery of another piece of the puzzle was so sweet, and I loved the way Amanda Wen brought her to life. She was enthusiastic, sweet, uncertain, and stubborn, but by no means perfect.
Garret and Lauren had such a sweet brother/sister relationship. Sure, they argued, but they also admitted they were wrong, hugged each other, talked with each other, had fun with each other . . . their relationship was one of my favourite aspects of the whole story. It is so rare in fiction to see an accurate portrayal of a sibling relationship, and I really, really appreciated it. The way they worked together to care for their grandmother with Alzheimers was really sweet, as well, and I loved the way Garret was always teasing and picking at her, while still being encouraging and not taking it too far. The many comments about her cooking without gluten, sugar, eggs, using paleo ingredients, and his many complaints were hilarious, but the way he was always eating her food and enjoying it was too precious!
The relationship between Garret and Sloane was a bit of a downer for me, personally. To start off, they were great. It was a relationship built on working together to figure out the puzzle pieces in history. The wit and sarcasm were perfectly timed, and the the friendship developed slowly, but steadily. In the latter 1/3 of the book, all of a sudden it seemed as if they just became way too intimate way too quickly . . . but it could be me, 'cause I don't really appreciate romance like that. If you do, you may find it sweet. Me? I found it a bit much and there were several scenes that I skimmed through.
I didn't like the fact that it was a Christian novel and it seemed throughout the whole book as if they were only Christians because the reader had been told they were, if that makes sense. There was no evidence of being a Christian in their lives, only evidence of good morals. There were several times I was thinking, "Now would be a really good time to stop and pray and ask for God's guidance" but they just plunged on making their own plans anyways. Later in the book, toward the latter 1/8 of the book, Garret *does* realize he's been plunging on ahead without ever thinking about consulting God, and he does make amends . . . so that may have been a deliberate thing Mrs. Wen consciously decided to include/not include.
The historical aspect was my favourite. You have a very feisty heroine, Annabelle Collins, who is determined not to be left behind again. She leaves her nice, comfortable life to head west in the wagon and teach young children on the frontier. But she is SO much more than a cliched heroine, and I loved it.
To start with, she is faced with severe difficulties and trials. Every time she turns around, something happens, and it all drives her closer to her Lord. As we read through her journals, we were able to watch her grow up, marry, have children, and deal with everything life threw at her, in the best ways.
There were so many surprises along the way that it was absolutely lovely to read through! I never saw the end of Sloane's story happening the way it did, and it was pretty neat to see all the ends tied up in a nice, neat package.
In conclusion, I'd say that because of some details that are mentioned (abandonment and the reason behind it, kisses I skimmed through, etc.) that this would be a book for adult (18+) readers.
*I'm thankful to have received a copy of this book from Kregel Publications through the Read with Audra program. All thoughts are my own.*
February 6, 2021
I totally enjoyed this brilliant debut novel by Amanda Wen. I was immediately intrigued by the nineteenth century journal and all the secrets it held! While the heroines were separated by more than a hundred years, both their journeys were incredible and moving.
This story also held several surprises I did not see coming. I loved how seamlessly the dual timelines blended to create one amazing book!
*I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This story also held several surprises I did not see coming. I loved how seamlessly the dual timelines blended to create one amazing book!
*I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 10, 2022
Roots of Wood and Stone is a fabulous debut author by Amanda Wen. It is exceptionally well-written. There is nothing about this novel that screams "debut."
I started listening to this book on Scribd. I was not enjoying it. It sounding interesting, but I couldn't figure out the problem. I finally realized I was not enjoying the narrator. Her voice was fine, but she kept emphasizing parts, putting her emotions into the book. For example, she would sigh at stuff that I didn't think needed a sigh, and she giggled at one point and then said "she smiled." I was thinking, then why did she giggle? Once I got the print copy I compared it to the audio and realized I was right, she was emphasizing things that didn't need to be, which was ruining my experience of the book. And, trust me, this is a book that you are going to want to experience!
The characters in this book have great chemistry and you can feel the intensity oozing off the pages. It is a great romance, with epic (yet clean!) descriptions. For example:
"I feel as tongue-tied as a schoolboy, but somehow like I've know you all my life. Looking into your eyes-I'm lost. But at the same time, I'm found. Being with you feels like the cusp of a grand adventure, yet it feels like I'm coming home too."
Is that not just the sweetest?
This is a beautiful story of healing and restoration. The past and present blend together seamlessly, creating an unforgettable story. There is depth, heartache, and moments that bring out all the feels. The ending gave me chills! This is one I would like to own and read again.
I started listening to this book on Scribd. I was not enjoying it. It sounding interesting, but I couldn't figure out the problem. I finally realized I was not enjoying the narrator. Her voice was fine, but she kept emphasizing parts, putting her emotions into the book. For example, she would sigh at stuff that I didn't think needed a sigh, and she giggled at one point and then said "she smiled." I was thinking, then why did she giggle? Once I got the print copy I compared it to the audio and realized I was right, she was emphasizing things that didn't need to be, which was ruining my experience of the book. And, trust me, this is a book that you are going to want to experience!
The characters in this book have great chemistry and you can feel the intensity oozing off the pages. It is a great romance, with epic (yet clean!) descriptions. For example:
"I feel as tongue-tied as a schoolboy, but somehow like I've know you all my life. Looking into your eyes-I'm lost. But at the same time, I'm found. Being with you feels like the cusp of a grand adventure, yet it feels like I'm coming home too."
Is that not just the sweetest?
This is a beautiful story of healing and restoration. The past and present blend together seamlessly, creating an unforgettable story. There is depth, heartache, and moments that bring out all the feels. The ending gave me chills! This is one I would like to own and read again.
March 25, 2022
Roots of Wood and Stone by Amanda Wen contained all my favorite story elements: emotional depth, perfectly paced character development, and swirling romance. The characters in this beautiful story experience loss and brokenness with genuine sorrow; yet, the novel is not a heavy read. By the time I got a few chapters in, Sloane and her story had me captivated to the point I read through most of the book one Sunday afternoon. Sloane rates as my favorite character, but Jack is another favorite because he’s so honest and raw about his struggles. I loved the authenticity to the characters and their journeys.
I appreciated the themes in Roots of Wood and Stone. Perhaps the most poignant for me was about finding redemption even when restoration isn’t possible. I’ll leave a favorite quote here: “Though painful, Papa’s abandonment had led her here. To Jack. To this hard, messy, wonderful adventure of a life. The Lord had indeed wrought beauty for her life’s most bitter moments.”
Roots of Wood and Stone, Amanda Wen’s debut novel and first in the Sedgwick County Chronicles series, surpassed my expectations. Reading this story was time well-spent. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy Christian fiction with romance and depth. 4.5 Stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
I appreciated the themes in Roots of Wood and Stone. Perhaps the most poignant for me was about finding redemption even when restoration isn’t possible. I’ll leave a favorite quote here: “Though painful, Papa’s abandonment had led her here. To Jack. To this hard, messy, wonderful adventure of a life. The Lord had indeed wrought beauty for her life’s most bitter moments.”
Roots of Wood and Stone, Amanda Wen’s debut novel and first in the Sedgwick County Chronicles series, surpassed my expectations. Reading this story was time well-spent. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy Christian fiction with romance and depth. 4.5 Stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
May 25, 2021
I instantly adored Sloane as she tries to be patient and kind to Garrett as he tries to drop a box of old items to the museum she worked at. Sloan explains the process he needs to go through for her to take these items. He slips her his business card and dashes out the door, busy answering a call. Garrett was in town to help his sister Lauren with their grandmother. Lauren has just realized the situation with their beloved grandmother is quickly getting out of hand. They needed help and a direction in how to best care for Grandma. The house required repairs so they’d be ready to sell, and get the funds need for her care. It was hard. The house had been in his family for centuries, they were torn on many levels.
Sloane looks inside the box Garrett left her and discovers a special diary from 1861, that was written by a nine-year-old girl, named Annabelle. It was a gift that was given to her by Uncle Stephen and Aunt Katherine . Sloane tells Garrett and Lauren about the diary. They did not know about Annabelle. “...you’d be surprised how little most people know about their heritage.” Try as they might to uncover her own. Sloane thought as she had spent years searching for her birth mother.
As I read in author notes about the inspiration for this book, I understood why this book touched my heart so deeply. The author says, “Family is at the heart of this book, and without my particular family, this book wouldn’t be here. While the contemporary characters are entirely fictional, my historical characters are inspired by three of my ancestors, painstakingly discovered and researched by my genealogist mom” ….” Although being sent to live with relatives was a common practice at the time, I couldn’t imagine it not being painful for a child, and I wanted to explore the theme of healing from parental abandonment in both the contemporary and the historical story lines.” I liked how the author explored this in both timelines.
The journey of Annabelle Collins and her family going to live in a far-off land squeezed my heart and chocked me up as Sloane, Garrett and Lauren find Annabelle’s diaries and read them out loud to each other. The author would switch to the past and readers were able to see the event in that timeline giving them a front row seat to all Annabelle experienced.
I loved the relationship Sloane has with Garrett and his family. It is fun to read. I was also fascinated by Sloane’s personal journey in search of for her birth mother using on-line sites etc. This is a beautiful story and one that hits my heart hard knowing the historical part of this expedition was based on the author’s family heritage.
Wow, grab some tissues while reading this one. You will need them as you cry happy and sad tears as the story has some surprises for the reader. This is a novel you will not soon forget. It is rich in characterization and themes of forgiveness, adoption, family drama around Alzheimer’s, and healing the past to be able to love in the future are golden nuggets in this book.
This is the first novel I have read by this remarkable, insightful storyteller, who created full-bodied characters whose situation and dialogue rings true and hits your heart in a good way. This makes for an intriguing memorable read and one that will blow your book club away. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through Interview and Reviews. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
Sloane looks inside the box Garrett left her and discovers a special diary from 1861, that was written by a nine-year-old girl, named Annabelle. It was a gift that was given to her by Uncle Stephen and Aunt Katherine . Sloane tells Garrett and Lauren about the diary. They did not know about Annabelle. “...you’d be surprised how little most people know about their heritage.” Try as they might to uncover her own. Sloane thought as she had spent years searching for her birth mother.
As I read in author notes about the inspiration for this book, I understood why this book touched my heart so deeply. The author says, “Family is at the heart of this book, and without my particular family, this book wouldn’t be here. While the contemporary characters are entirely fictional, my historical characters are inspired by three of my ancestors, painstakingly discovered and researched by my genealogist mom” ….” Although being sent to live with relatives was a common practice at the time, I couldn’t imagine it not being painful for a child, and I wanted to explore the theme of healing from parental abandonment in both the contemporary and the historical story lines.” I liked how the author explored this in both timelines.
The journey of Annabelle Collins and her family going to live in a far-off land squeezed my heart and chocked me up as Sloane, Garrett and Lauren find Annabelle’s diaries and read them out loud to each other. The author would switch to the past and readers were able to see the event in that timeline giving them a front row seat to all Annabelle experienced.
I loved the relationship Sloane has with Garrett and his family. It is fun to read. I was also fascinated by Sloane’s personal journey in search of for her birth mother using on-line sites etc. This is a beautiful story and one that hits my heart hard knowing the historical part of this expedition was based on the author’s family heritage.
Wow, grab some tissues while reading this one. You will need them as you cry happy and sad tears as the story has some surprises for the reader. This is a novel you will not soon forget. It is rich in characterization and themes of forgiveness, adoption, family drama around Alzheimer’s, and healing the past to be able to love in the future are golden nuggets in this book.
This is the first novel I have read by this remarkable, insightful storyteller, who created full-bodied characters whose situation and dialogue rings true and hits your heart in a good way. This makes for an intriguing memorable read and one that will blow your book club away. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through Interview and Reviews. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
December 31, 2021
"If he stopped, the pain would catch up with him."
"She was just a diversion they were forced to deal with. The unexpected wrinkle in their carefully ironed plans."
When Garrett Anderson dropped by Sloane Kelley's office to donate an old satchel he'd found while cleaning out his grandmother's house, neither of them knew their lives were about to change. Sloane, annoyed that he assumed the museum would accept any old items with ties to local settlers, tries to give it back. But then the diary tucked inside catches her attention, and the adventure begins.
Sloane preserves history because she doesn't know her own. Abandoned as an infant, she's always sought answers to her roots. Websites devoted to helping connect adoptees with their birth parents haven't yielded any clues as to why her mother might have left her on a bus that spring morning thirty years ago.
Garrett is a frazzled financial planner trying to get things squared away for the long-term care of his grandmother, who is slipping away more and more with dementia. While his sister has given up much to care for Grandma, it's getting to be more than Lauren can handle. As the numbers guy, Garrett realizes that they are going to need to sell Grandma's house in order to afford her care, but it's hard to get the place ready to sell when it's been in his family for generations.
The discovery of Annabelle Collins's diaries brings delight to the heavy task of cleaning out Grandma's house. Annabelle, a nineteenth century pioneer, started recording her thoughts as a 9-year-old left at her aunt's house while her father went off to fight in the Civil War. The diaries trace Annabelle's life through her journey west, her marriage, motherhood, and beyond. Annabelle's story draws Garrett and Sloane together, and some of the very truths they seek may be found within those yellowed pages.
I loved so much about this story. The themes are sweet and relatable—family, difficult decisions, seeking answers to questions which may never be answered. Amanda Wen brings the Wichita, Kansas, setting vividly to life, both in the contemporary and historical settings. All the characters are well-rounded, the romances will make your toes tingle, and the faith element will stir a desire to connect with God more fully yourself. An extremely well-done debut—I will be watching for more from this author!
I received my copy of the book from Read With Audra. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
"She was just a diversion they were forced to deal with. The unexpected wrinkle in their carefully ironed plans."
When Garrett Anderson dropped by Sloane Kelley's office to donate an old satchel he'd found while cleaning out his grandmother's house, neither of them knew their lives were about to change. Sloane, annoyed that he assumed the museum would accept any old items with ties to local settlers, tries to give it back. But then the diary tucked inside catches her attention, and the adventure begins.
Sloane preserves history because she doesn't know her own. Abandoned as an infant, she's always sought answers to her roots. Websites devoted to helping connect adoptees with their birth parents haven't yielded any clues as to why her mother might have left her on a bus that spring morning thirty years ago.
Garrett is a frazzled financial planner trying to get things squared away for the long-term care of his grandmother, who is slipping away more and more with dementia. While his sister has given up much to care for Grandma, it's getting to be more than Lauren can handle. As the numbers guy, Garrett realizes that they are going to need to sell Grandma's house in order to afford her care, but it's hard to get the place ready to sell when it's been in his family for generations.
The discovery of Annabelle Collins's diaries brings delight to the heavy task of cleaning out Grandma's house. Annabelle, a nineteenth century pioneer, started recording her thoughts as a 9-year-old left at her aunt's house while her father went off to fight in the Civil War. The diaries trace Annabelle's life through her journey west, her marriage, motherhood, and beyond. Annabelle's story draws Garrett and Sloane together, and some of the very truths they seek may be found within those yellowed pages.
I loved so much about this story. The themes are sweet and relatable—family, difficult decisions, seeking answers to questions which may never be answered. Amanda Wen brings the Wichita, Kansas, setting vividly to life, both in the contemporary and historical settings. All the characters are well-rounded, the romances will make your toes tingle, and the faith element will stir a desire to connect with God more fully yourself. An extremely well-done debut—I will be watching for more from this author!
I received my copy of the book from Read With Audra. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
January 22, 2021
There are so many God Things in the book, they give heart tugs, and thus it became a page turner. I'll say I "loved this book", yes, all of it.
We flash to the eighteen hundreds and back again, and all the while you become very involved in what is Annabelle's story, and then present day dealing with the challenges life presents. We are given a brother and sister, having recently losing their mother, are not cleaning out and taking care of their grandmother. She lives in the family homestead, but is deep into alzheimer's and they know the time is coming and hard decisions have to be made.
We also meet Sloane Kelley, a young woman who has always felt she doesn't belong, but is working at the Historical Museum, when a dusty satchel is dropped off. In this bag is a diary that is about to change everyone's life, and we are about to be drawn into the Collin's Family, and I didn't want to leave. This book is rich is love and history, a bit of sweet romance, both in the past and present, and a deep love of God!
I received this book through the Publisher Kregel and Read With Audra Blog Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
We flash to the eighteen hundreds and back again, and all the while you become very involved in what is Annabelle's story, and then present day dealing with the challenges life presents. We are given a brother and sister, having recently losing their mother, are not cleaning out and taking care of their grandmother. She lives in the family homestead, but is deep into alzheimer's and they know the time is coming and hard decisions have to be made.
We also meet Sloane Kelley, a young woman who has always felt she doesn't belong, but is working at the Historical Museum, when a dusty satchel is dropped off. In this bag is a diary that is about to change everyone's life, and we are about to be drawn into the Collin's Family, and I didn't want to leave. This book is rich is love and history, a bit of sweet romance, both in the past and present, and a deep love of God!
I received this book through the Publisher Kregel and Read With Audra Blog Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
March 11, 2021
What a powerful debut! And that cover--It's perfect for the heartwarming story inside.
Author Amanda Wen does a meticulous job intertwining two stories in this gorgeous time-slip. Present day heroine Sloane and historical heroine Annabelle are memorable and courageous, both struggling with identity and loss in very different time periods. Present-day hero Garrett balances Sloane's wit and passion for the past with his steadiness and humor. Their chemistry sparked on the pages, as did the chemistry between Annabelle and her hero--double sigh.
The author writes with tender insight into the longings of the human heart, carrying readers through these characters' highs and lows. I laughed at times and cried at others. The farmhouse sits at the center of the story, literally and figuratively, and I appreciated the way its value was honored without making it more important than the characters within.
If you enjoy inspirational timeslips with memorable characters and a spiritual arc that resonates long after closing the page, I highly recommend Roots of Wood and Stone. I'm eager to read more from this gifted author!
Author Amanda Wen does a meticulous job intertwining two stories in this gorgeous time-slip. Present day heroine Sloane and historical heroine Annabelle are memorable and courageous, both struggling with identity and loss in very different time periods. Present-day hero Garrett balances Sloane's wit and passion for the past with his steadiness and humor. Their chemistry sparked on the pages, as did the chemistry between Annabelle and her hero--double sigh.
The author writes with tender insight into the longings of the human heart, carrying readers through these characters' highs and lows. I laughed at times and cried at others. The farmhouse sits at the center of the story, literally and figuratively, and I appreciated the way its value was honored without making it more important than the characters within.
If you enjoy inspirational timeslips with memorable characters and a spiritual arc that resonates long after closing the page, I highly recommend Roots of Wood and Stone. I'm eager to read more from this gifted author!
October 13, 2023
My first Amanda Wen book and certainly not my last. What a wonderful story. And I believe this is her debut novel. Well, bravo. I would have never guessed.
This story was packed with so much I couldn’t possibly do it justice without giving spoilers, so I will just say the faith element was well done without being pushy. It was simply organic to the characters' storylines. Also, I enjoyed the characters' complicated flaws revealed to us in the backgrounds that followed.
Also, read it. It’s lovely.
10/13/23 Was able to get the audio version of this book. What a delight this was to listen to. Just as good in audio as reading!
This story was packed with so much I couldn’t possibly do it justice without giving spoilers, so I will just say the faith element was well done without being pushy. It was simply organic to the characters' storylines. Also, I enjoyed the characters' complicated flaws revealed to us in the backgrounds that followed.
Also, read it. It’s lovely.
10/13/23 Was able to get the audio version of this book. What a delight this was to listen to. Just as good in audio as reading!
January 20, 2021
What a beautifully written story! The author did an excellent job of weaving the past with the present. I loved every thing about this book especially the main theme which was to trust God with the plans for your life and how important forgiveness is. I highly recommend this book, it was an excellent read.
Thank you Independent Publishers Group and Kregel Publications via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you Independent Publishers Group and Kregel Publications via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
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