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Anthony en Marty Hirschler maken deel uit van een Old Order-mennonitische gemeenschap in Pine Hill, Indiana. Nadat een arts bevestigde dat ze nooit kinderen zullen krijgen, is het echtpaar uit elkaar gegroeid. Marty verlangt ernaar te ontsnappen uit de hechte gemeenschap, waar juist grote gezinnen gewaardeerd worden.
Dat verlangen wordt werkelijkheid wanneer haar jeugdvriendin, Brooke Spalding, opduikt met het wilde idee om een spookstad om te bouwen tot een vakantieresort. Brooke huurt Anthony in om te helpen met de bouw, haalt de Hirschlers over weg te gaan uit Indiana en neemt hen mee in haar plan. Maar dan krijgt Brooke de diagnose dat ze kanker heeft.
De morele bezwaren van de Hirschlers tegen een casino in het resort, en de ontdekking van een weggelopen tiener die zich op het terrein verbergt, openen een wereld aan mogelijkheden die noch de Hirschlers noch Brooke eerder hadden voorzien. Zullen ze in staat zijn om hun uitdagingen en verschillen te overwinnen, om degenen die het meest gekwetst worden te helpen?
Dat verlangen wordt werkelijkheid wanneer haar jeugdvriendin, Brooke Spalding, opduikt met het wilde idee om een spookstad om te bouwen tot een vakantieresort. Brooke huurt Anthony in om te helpen met de bouw, haalt de Hirschlers over weg te gaan uit Indiana en neemt hen mee in haar plan. Maar dan krijgt Brooke de diagnose dat ze kanker heeft.
De morele bezwaren van de Hirschlers tegen een casino in het resort, en de ontdekking van een weggelopen tiener die zich op het terrein verbergt, openen een wereld aan mogelijkheden die noch de Hirschlers noch Brooke eerder hadden voorzien. Zullen ze in staat zijn om hun uitdagingen en verschillen te overwinnen, om degenen die het meest gekwetst worden te helpen?
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2018
73 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
About the author
Kim Vogel Sawyer
70 books1,208 followersAward-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Kim's titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different languages. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim's passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn't writing, you'll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or--as time allows--participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim's writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
October 29, 2018
Um--wow!
My friend Joleen mentioned being a wolfer of books last week and I definitely felt like I was emulating her on this one. I started at 6 and finished at 9. This is a regular-length book, but it felt like it only lasted 100 pages, and I wanted it to be at least twice as long! This is the first time I have ever put a book remotely dealing with plain folk (these are Old Order Mennonites) on my favorites shelf, but it most definitely deserves the spot.
It's hard to say much about the plot without spoiling some of the joy of discovering it for yourself, so I'll just say that Marty and her dear friend Brooke are probably some of my favorite characters of the year. And Anthony is plenty fine as well, though the women's friendship is what really makes this story sparkle. If you enjoy meaningful stories of friendship, be sure to add this one to your reading list.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free ebook copy. A positive review was not required.
My friend Joleen mentioned being a wolfer of books last week and I definitely felt like I was emulating her on this one. I started at 6 and finished at 9. This is a regular-length book, but it felt like it only lasted 100 pages, and I wanted it to be at least twice as long! This is the first time I have ever put a book remotely dealing with plain folk (these are Old Order Mennonites) on my favorites shelf, but it most definitely deserves the spot.
It's hard to say much about the plot without spoiling some of the joy of discovering it for yourself, so I'll just say that Marty and her dear friend Brooke are probably some of my favorite characters of the year. And Anthony is plenty fine as well, though the women's friendship is what really makes this story sparkle. If you enjoy meaningful stories of friendship, be sure to add this one to your reading list.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free ebook copy. A positive review was not required.
September 12, 2018
Let me just say that I really loved this book! I have read many Kim Vogel Sawyer books over the years and I do believe this is her most powerful one to date. There is quite a bit going on in this book. There is a strong friendship bond between two women since childhood, one an Old Order Mennonite woman and the other a take charge of the board meeting,know her own mind woman. What an unlikely friendship but it works for them. Each woman in life is dealt a devastating blow through some very bad news. Through this they are there to prop each other up and and give the other the support they need. This book has a lot of layers and depth and each character has a purpose in God's eye's . We get to know each character very well and spend a lot of time with them. This book really has the good feelings in it and really makes you appreciate what you have and who you have in your day to day life. I loved seeing the spiritual reawakening in the characters. Sawyer deals with some pretty tough subjects here but they are subjects that need talked about in our society, like sexual predators and homelessness. She covers these subjects in a respectful way and there is information in the back of the book telling you how you can get involved to help. Reader Guide included in the back of the book.
Pub Date 11 Sep 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook & Multnomah through Netgalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
Pub Date 11 Sep 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook & Multnomah through Netgalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 10, 2018
You might want to have the tissues handy as you read this book, what a journey the author has given us.
There are several subjects that are touched on and they are brought to the forefront by the author, and we are able to put faces on all of these.
We walk in Marty’s shoes as she goes through life without the foremost desire of her heart, a baby, and yet you will see that God has bigger plans for her, and yes, it is hard to accept and move on.
Brook, I felt God put these people in her life, and we soon find out why, and she and Elliot are here for a reason, and oh how blessed we are to get to know them.
Come and enjoy Marty and Anthony’s story and find how touched you are going to be, and when the last page is turned, I still wanted more!
I received this book through the Publisher Waterbrook Press, and was not required to give a positive review.
There are several subjects that are touched on and they are brought to the forefront by the author, and we are able to put faces on all of these.
We walk in Marty’s shoes as she goes through life without the foremost desire of her heart, a baby, and yet you will see that God has bigger plans for her, and yes, it is hard to accept and move on.
Brook, I felt God put these people in her life, and we soon find out why, and she and Elliot are here for a reason, and oh how blessed we are to get to know them.
Come and enjoy Marty and Anthony’s story and find how touched you are going to be, and when the last page is turned, I still wanted more!
I received this book through the Publisher Waterbrook Press, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 26, 2018
Not sure if Sawyer can write a bad book. I loved this one from the very beginning. I can wait for the next book.
August 24, 2019
FTC Diclosure: NetGalley gave me a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts.
Tender and raw yet oh-so-beautiful, this story is a brilliant display of the yearning and search for peace. With the subjects of sex trafficking, cancer battles, and brotherly (and sisterly) love exquisitely handled by a master storyteller, it completely broke my heart in spots and had streams of tears coursing down my cheeks. This heartfelt story is clearly near and very dear to the author’s heart for many reasons, and it has found a permanent home in mine as well. May we all find the peace only One may grant, and may we all learn to love like the Prince of Peace does.
Content: replacement expletives throughout, skinny-dipping (and nudity associated with that)
Triggers:
Note: If radio stations truly label Whitney Houston as “light rock,” somebody goofed. She sang R&B, soul, and pop. I confirmed this with a music-loving friend who knows genres well and has listened to a wide variety of music since the 1990s, as well as doing my own research on the internet to confirm my own memories of Mrs. Houston’s singing style.
Similar to: Priceless (movie by ForKingAndCountry band)
Favorite Moment (one of many): A special encounter with a pair of purple fuzzy socks started my tears running and made my heart flip over.
Tender and raw yet oh-so-beautiful, this story is a brilliant display of the yearning and search for peace. With the subjects of sex trafficking, cancer battles, and brotherly (and sisterly) love exquisitely handled by a master storyteller, it completely broke my heart in spots and had streams of tears coursing down my cheeks. This heartfelt story is clearly near and very dear to the author’s heart for many reasons, and it has found a permanent home in mine as well. May we all find the peace only One may grant, and may we all learn to love like the Prince of Peace does.
Content: replacement expletives throughout, skinny-dipping (and nudity associated with that)
Triggers:
Note: If radio stations truly label Whitney Houston as “light rock,” somebody goofed. She sang R&B, soul, and pop. I confirmed this with a music-loving friend who knows genres well and has listened to a wide variety of music since the 1990s, as well as doing my own research on the internet to confirm my own memories of Mrs. Houston’s singing style.
Similar to: Priceless (movie by ForKingAndCountry band)
Favorite Moment (one of many): A special encounter with a pair of purple fuzzy socks started my tears running and made my heart flip over.
July 18, 2018
This was a lovely and inspirational story. I cried several times throughout and felt deep joy other times. This was a very emotional ride. The characters were so real and I grew to care about them and what happened to them. The subject of human trafficking and homeless teenagers was brought to the forefront and was very heart wrenching. It also was inspiring to the point of wanting to see what the situation is in my own community.
Marty, a Mennonite wife, has been unable to conceive in her many years of marriage. She blames God for something she wants so badly, to be a mother. God it seems always has better plans we just can't always see them at the time.
Anthony, her husband, has his own construction company. To help Marty's best friend growing up with a new project, the two of them with part of the construction crew, travel to another state. Her friend Brooke is experiencing health problems along with her plans to renovate a ghost town to usefulness as a resort.
God's plans for all of them begin flourishing through their prayers and their willingness to let Him lead.
I highly recommend this novel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to write a review.
Marty, a Mennonite wife, has been unable to conceive in her many years of marriage. She blames God for something she wants so badly, to be a mother. God it seems always has better plans we just can't always see them at the time.
Anthony, her husband, has his own construction company. To help Marty's best friend growing up with a new project, the two of them with part of the construction crew, travel to another state. Her friend Brooke is experiencing health problems along with her plans to renovate a ghost town to usefulness as a resort.
God's plans for all of them begin flourishing through their prayers and their willingness to let Him lead.
I highly recommend this novel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to write a review.
September 9, 2018
Ours for a Season is the latest novel by Kim Vogel Sawyer. Martha “Marty” Hirschler lives with her husband, Anthony in Pine Hill, Indiana. Anthony owns Hirschler Construction and is frequently gone on construction projects for weeks at a time. The pair have grown apart since they learned that they cannot have children of their own and adoption is not a venture they can afford. Marty has lost her faith in God since her prayers have failed to be answered and desperately wants to get away from her family oriented community. Marty is surprised when she gets a letter addressed to both herself and Anthony from her English friend, Brooke Spalding. Brooke along with a group of investors have purchased land in northeast Kansas that used to be a thriving town. Her plan is to restore the town into a resort and she wants Anthony to oversee the construction. Brooke hopes the time away will help Marty and Anthony repair their marriage. When Brooke is diagnosed with cancer, she needs Marty’s help to get through this difficult time. It draws Brooke and Marty closer together along with giving Brooke an opportunity to learn about God. Anthony becomes faced with a moral dilemma when he learns Brooke plans to have a casino on the property. Then a runaway teenager is discovered on the grounds and the group learns the horrors of human trafficking and the difficulties teen’s experience in the foster care system. Anthony, Marty, Brooke and their workers will face a variety of challenges while in Kansas. Will they be able to overcome these hurdles and how will it impact their future?
Ours for a Season contains good writing, but the story is a slow starter. I had a hard time getting into the story. Ours for a Season improved as I got further into the book along with the pacing. It was hard to like Marty in the beginning. Marty is depressed over her childless life. She sees families, pregnant woman, babies and children every where she goes in her town. Marty does not want her husband going away so often for work because she feels alone. However, Marty does not want to be around family or friends. When the opportunity from Brooke arrives, Marty feels it is the perfect solution (to run away where there are no children). Anthony could have been more understanding (though it has been two years) and sympathetic to Marty’s feelings. I began to warm up to the characters as the story progressed. I did feel that the first part of the story was too long (it became a Marty pity party). I liked Brooke Spalding. She is a strong, smart female who had a dream and did everything in her power to achieve it. However, Brooke was kind, thoughtful and never ruthless. I would have liked more on Brooke especially at the end. The point-of-view switches between Marty, Anthony and Brooke. It can be confusing (at first), though it does allow a reader to learn what each character is thinking and feeling. Ours for a Season has a good flow as we transition between the characters and situations. The ending was good, but it felt rushed. The author handled the subject of human trafficking deftly. It is a serious problem and I liked the solution presented in the story. The Christian theme is present throughout the book (having faith, power of prayer, God is in charge of our lives). There are good spiritual insights presented and you will continue to ponder on them long after you finish Ours for a Season.
Ours for a Season contains good writing, but the story is a slow starter. I had a hard time getting into the story. Ours for a Season improved as I got further into the book along with the pacing. It was hard to like Marty in the beginning. Marty is depressed over her childless life. She sees families, pregnant woman, babies and children every where she goes in her town. Marty does not want her husband going away so often for work because she feels alone. However, Marty does not want to be around family or friends. When the opportunity from Brooke arrives, Marty feels it is the perfect solution (to run away where there are no children). Anthony could have been more understanding (though it has been two years) and sympathetic to Marty’s feelings. I began to warm up to the characters as the story progressed. I did feel that the first part of the story was too long (it became a Marty pity party). I liked Brooke Spalding. She is a strong, smart female who had a dream and did everything in her power to achieve it. However, Brooke was kind, thoughtful and never ruthless. I would have liked more on Brooke especially at the end. The point-of-view switches between Marty, Anthony and Brooke. It can be confusing (at first), though it does allow a reader to learn what each character is thinking and feeling. Ours for a Season has a good flow as we transition between the characters and situations. The ending was good, but it felt rushed. The author handled the subject of human trafficking deftly. It is a serious problem and I liked the solution presented in the story. The Christian theme is present throughout the book (having faith, power of prayer, God is in charge of our lives). There are good spiritual insights presented and you will continue to ponder on them long after you finish Ours for a Season.
September 8, 2018
This one pulled me in page by page, with characters so well written you felt like you could see them, even the ones with the small parts.
So much in this one is really heartfelt, Marty and Anthony’s not being able to have a child, Brook’s cancer and childhood and the troubled teenagers, it just kept my emotions so involved.
You won’t forget this one when you close the book, I would love to see it made into a movie, all though I can just hear myself saying ‘The book was better’!
So much in this one is really heartfelt, Marty and Anthony’s not being able to have a child, Brook’s cancer and childhood and the troubled teenagers, it just kept my emotions so involved.
You won’t forget this one when you close the book, I would love to see it made into a movie, all though I can just hear myself saying ‘The book was better’!
September 11, 2018
Let me start off by saying I LOVED this book! If you’re looking for a typical Mennonite book, this isn’t it. But, don’t let that keep you from reading it. The message is so powerful, and the story may just stick with you long after the final page (as it certainly will for me).
Old Order Mennonite couple Anthony and Marty have lost a child and are unable to have any more. Anthony is putting himself into his construction business, and he travels a lot, spending time away from his wife. Marty can’t seem to move past her longing to be a mother, and it’s putting a strain on their relationship. Her friend Brooke offers them an opportunity to get away and hopefully heal their marriage, and they decide to go for it and see where God leads them. The journey will take them on some unexpected turns, and they will need to rely on their faith.
There is so much depth to this story, emotionally and spiritually. It’s wonderful to see the way God works through and uses each character, and not one character is wasted. They all fit perfectly together. Brooke was one of my favorites, and she experienced the most character growth. But, then again, so did Elliot, and Marty, and… oh, I just enjoyed them all!
The author tackles some serious issues, such as infertility, marital problems, serious illness, sex trafficking, and homelessness. It’s nice to read a story that doesn’t gloss over such things that are prevalent in today’s society. This powerful story is a reminder that God’s hand is always at work, even if we don’t always see it at the time.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
Old Order Mennonite couple Anthony and Marty have lost a child and are unable to have any more. Anthony is putting himself into his construction business, and he travels a lot, spending time away from his wife. Marty can’t seem to move past her longing to be a mother, and it’s putting a strain on their relationship. Her friend Brooke offers them an opportunity to get away and hopefully heal their marriage, and they decide to go for it and see where God leads them. The journey will take them on some unexpected turns, and they will need to rely on their faith.
There is so much depth to this story, emotionally and spiritually. It’s wonderful to see the way God works through and uses each character, and not one character is wasted. They all fit perfectly together. Brooke was one of my favorites, and she experienced the most character growth. But, then again, so did Elliot, and Marty, and… oh, I just enjoyed them all!
The author tackles some serious issues, such as infertility, marital problems, serious illness, sex trafficking, and homelessness. It’s nice to read a story that doesn’t gloss over such things that are prevalent in today’s society. This powerful story is a reminder that God’s hand is always at work, even if we don’t always see it at the time.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
July 29, 2020
Can I give this 10 stars? No one quite writes a story like Ms. Sawyer, as her characters wrap around your heart and leave you a better person when finished. You will definitely need tissues as you read about human trafficking, homeless teens, a woman’s brokenness over being childless, cancer and how all things work together for good to fulfill God’s plan and purpose for our lives. It is a moving tale that transports you into the midst and you feel the heartbreak and joy while learning what “joy breathing deeply” means. What beautiful words. Have you ever been angry with God and blamed Him for something? I encourage you to read this and find out how Marty became an overcomer over the pain and sorrow she was feeling. This is an all encompassing living, breathing sermon without being preachy. You need to put this on your must read list and on your shelf of books that you will read over and over again.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
January 25, 2019
It could be said that Ours for a Season is a book about human-trafficking, but it’s so much more than that. It’s about childlessness. About difficult early years and bitterness. About truth and discovery. It’s about pain, yet healing through the One who shares that hurt. There’s emptiness, but a deep contentment that only comes from a Savior. It’s about longing for love, and about a Father whose arms are open wide. It’s about resilience, new beginnings and about purpose issuing forth from a new heart.
For about half of the book the main hero and heroine aren’t altogether considerate towards each other, and I wasn’t fond of them. I was truly wondering why anybody liked this book. But as the characters' eyes were opened to how God was working, their lives began to make sense. They softened toward each other and toward other significant characters.
When we hold in grievances and disappointments, a shell of protection does not allow for God to carefully and lovingly mold us into the people we're meant to be. But God is glorified when the truth of His Word takes shapes in our hearts.
I didn’t mean to make a sermon out of this review, but seeing changes in so many people, and how the gospel was clearly shared and accepted, and how ministry is a natural outcome of changed lives, I was delighted and — well — inspired.
Good book!
For about half of the book the main hero and heroine aren’t altogether considerate towards each other, and I wasn’t fond of them. I was truly wondering why anybody liked this book. But as the characters' eyes were opened to how God was working, their lives began to make sense. They softened toward each other and toward other significant characters.
When we hold in grievances and disappointments, a shell of protection does not allow for God to carefully and lovingly mold us into the people we're meant to be. But God is glorified when the truth of His Word takes shapes in our hearts.
I didn’t mean to make a sermon out of this review, but seeing changes in so many people, and how the gospel was clearly shared and accepted, and how ministry is a natural outcome of changed lives, I was delighted and — well — inspired.
Good book!
September 19, 2018
OURS FOR A SEASON is Ms. Sawyer's most recent novel. A Mennonite couple from Indiana relocate to a ghost town in Kansas...
This story starts very slow. It kind of dragged at first, and I was getting tired of reading about Marty's woes, but it was a necessary part of character development, so stick in there if you struggle, too. By page 73 something piqued my interest, so I read more willingly, and by the end of the book I didn't want to put it down.
This book didn't go where I thought it would go in a way, and yet, in another way, it did. I liked Anthony and Marty once I got to know them. I could relate to Brooke's struggle with cancer, with even the anti-nausea drugs not working (ugh) and Elliot, I just wanted to reach out and hug him.
OURS FOR A SEASON is a sweet women's fiction book about a couple finding themselves, finding God's plan for them, and going the extra mile to achieve it.
Recommended. Fans of Amish and other Plain fiction, or fans of women's fiction, will likely love this book.
i was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
This story starts very slow. It kind of dragged at first, and I was getting tired of reading about Marty's woes, but it was a necessary part of character development, so stick in there if you struggle, too. By page 73 something piqued my interest, so I read more willingly, and by the end of the book I didn't want to put it down.
This book didn't go where I thought it would go in a way, and yet, in another way, it did. I liked Anthony and Marty once I got to know them. I could relate to Brooke's struggle with cancer, with even the anti-nausea drugs not working (ugh) and Elliot, I just wanted to reach out and hug him.
OURS FOR A SEASON is a sweet women's fiction book about a couple finding themselves, finding God's plan for them, and going the extra mile to achieve it.
Recommended. Fans of Amish and other Plain fiction, or fans of women's fiction, will likely love this book.
i was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
August 30, 2018
We meet Marty and her husband Anthony. We learn that they can not have biological children of there own. They seem to be having a hard time getting along. Marty seem to not be able to move on from the news and feeling likes something is missing. God seem to have bigger and better plan for her and Anthony.
We go though several different kinds of issues and Sawyer bring them to the for front. Brooke got to deal with painful disease and it is brought up which is Cancer. Will she beat it? What is Gods plan for Brooke. What is Gods Plan for Eagle Creek? God decides to bring Marty and Anthony to Kansas?
We meet a young teenager named Elliot and a young girl. Will there be healing for these three friends? Will a drifting marriage bring back to life? Will Brooke find her heavenly father? What could Gods big plans be to bring Marty and Anthony and Brooke together?
We go though several different kinds of issues and Sawyer bring them to the for front. Brooke got to deal with painful disease and it is brought up which is Cancer. Will she beat it? What is Gods plan for Brooke. What is Gods Plan for Eagle Creek? God decides to bring Marty and Anthony to Kansas?
We meet a young teenager named Elliot and a young girl. Will there be healing for these three friends? Will a drifting marriage bring back to life? Will Brooke find her heavenly father? What could Gods big plans be to bring Marty and Anthony and Brooke together?
August 24, 2018
An Old Order Mennonite couple's vows and beliefs are challenged in this stirring contemporary novel for fans of Cindy Woodsmall or Shelley Shepherd Gray.
Reading Ms. Sawyer's story woven around members of an Old Order Mennonite community helps this reader grasp some of the similarities and differences between this Old Order group and Old Order Amish. Anthony Hirschler is the male protagonist and owns a construction company. He drives a truck, has a cell phone, etc. Marty, his wife also drives and has a phone. They dress in a manner similar to the Amish (ladies cover their hair, have simple dresses, and aprons). They stand out in secular communities as being set apart yet not as set apart as their Old Order Amish counterparts.
The Old Order Mennonites in this story still defer to the local community's religious order for making decisions in life and business.
Now the story..... I found Marty's pouty disposition and standoffishness irritating and personally felt she should let go of her feeling so unhappy and unfulfilled because she and her husband were unable to have children of their own. She seemed self-centered in this attitude and unfeeling in regard to her husband's feelings.
What I related to in the story..... Marty's best friend during her growing up years was Brooke who has become a very successful business woman out in the secular world. She is a worldly woman with no family. Then cancer strikes and she needs Marty's help.
The description of Brooke's battle with cancer and the treatments really hit home to me. Several years ago my husband had cancer with all its ugly effects and happenings - surgery, chemo treatments, radiation, sickness, and a tiredness and weariness that only those who are brought low with chemo can know. My daughter also had cancer and these awful times. So it was hard to read this story that carried Brooke's story and her battle.
The story ends on a high note - and the story ends on a low note. Just as in life their are the high moments and there are the low moments. The story of redemption is alive and well in Ours For A Seasonn and the characters who need redemption so much. The thread of abuse and homelessness and the need to address these issues is a major part of the story.
This is a good read that can have one experience a roller coaster of emotions during the reading.
DISCLOSURE: As part of the Ours For A Season launch team I received a complimentary Advanced Reader's Copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own alone and are freely given.
Reading Ms. Sawyer's story woven around members of an Old Order Mennonite community helps this reader grasp some of the similarities and differences between this Old Order group and Old Order Amish. Anthony Hirschler is the male protagonist and owns a construction company. He drives a truck, has a cell phone, etc. Marty, his wife also drives and has a phone. They dress in a manner similar to the Amish (ladies cover their hair, have simple dresses, and aprons). They stand out in secular communities as being set apart yet not as set apart as their Old Order Amish counterparts.
The Old Order Mennonites in this story still defer to the local community's religious order for making decisions in life and business.
Now the story..... I found Marty's pouty disposition and standoffishness irritating and personally felt she should let go of her feeling so unhappy and unfulfilled because she and her husband were unable to have children of their own. She seemed self-centered in this attitude and unfeeling in regard to her husband's feelings.
What I related to in the story..... Marty's best friend during her growing up years was Brooke who has become a very successful business woman out in the secular world. She is a worldly woman with no family. Then cancer strikes and she needs Marty's help.
The description of Brooke's battle with cancer and the treatments really hit home to me. Several years ago my husband had cancer with all its ugly effects and happenings - surgery, chemo treatments, radiation, sickness, and a tiredness and weariness that only those who are brought low with chemo can know. My daughter also had cancer and these awful times. So it was hard to read this story that carried Brooke's story and her battle.
The story ends on a high note - and the story ends on a low note. Just as in life their are the high moments and there are the low moments. The story of redemption is alive and well in Ours For A Seasonn and the characters who need redemption so much. The thread of abuse and homelessness and the need to address these issues is a major part of the story.
This is a good read that can have one experience a roller coaster of emotions during the reading.
DISCLOSURE: As part of the Ours For A Season launch team I received a complimentary Advanced Reader's Copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own alone and are freely given.
September 9, 2023
Zelfs niet uitgelezen volgens mij..
August 23, 2018
Kim Vogel Sawyer’s newest novel, Ours for a Season, is an atypical Mennonite story.
Marty and Anthony Hirschler, unable to have children, are floundering in their marriage. Neither knows how to cross the ever-widening chasm that is growing.
Marty’s best friend since childhood contacts her wanting to hire Anthony, who is a general contractor, to rebuild a “ghost” town, thus offering them a change of scenery and pace.
I felt a myriad of emotions during the reading of Ours for a Season. My heart ached for the Hirschler’s and their inability to have children, along with growing antipathy toward each other. The story also deals with some weighty issues, from teenage runaways to sex trafficking, infertility and cancer.
I took a little time to warm up to Marty. I felt she was a little harsh with her husband. I also felt Anthony wasn’t as sympathetic and understanding as he could have been. However, as the story progressed, I came to care for both of them, along with the other characters who are introduced.
The story flows well, from one situation to the next without your feeling as if you’re on a roller coaster ride. There is a lot of insight and spiritual profundity in the story, which will leave you thinking about it for a long while after reading it.
I received this book from WaterBrook Publisher’s, NetGalley and the author. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
Marty and Anthony Hirschler, unable to have children, are floundering in their marriage. Neither knows how to cross the ever-widening chasm that is growing.
Marty’s best friend since childhood contacts her wanting to hire Anthony, who is a general contractor, to rebuild a “ghost” town, thus offering them a change of scenery and pace.
I felt a myriad of emotions during the reading of Ours for a Season. My heart ached for the Hirschler’s and their inability to have children, along with growing antipathy toward each other. The story also deals with some weighty issues, from teenage runaways to sex trafficking, infertility and cancer.
I took a little time to warm up to Marty. I felt she was a little harsh with her husband. I also felt Anthony wasn’t as sympathetic and understanding as he could have been. However, as the story progressed, I came to care for both of them, along with the other characters who are introduced.
The story flows well, from one situation to the next without your feeling as if you’re on a roller coaster ride. There is a lot of insight and spiritual profundity in the story, which will leave you thinking about it for a long while after reading it.
I received this book from WaterBrook Publisher’s, NetGalley and the author. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
July 15, 2018
Another great book by Kim Vogel Sawyer. It is a story about a Old Order Mennonite community Mary and her husband Anthony lose a child and was told she would never have more. Her husband Anthony is in construction and travels a lot which puts a strain on there marriage. When her friend Brooke writes and ask her and Anthony for help they make the plunge and do so. It is a beautiful story of Faith and overcoming loss. There are a lot of things that happen in this book that keeps you interested.
August 12, 2018
I spent the weekend unable to put this book down for very long. This story of Marty, Anthony and Brooke drew me in and kept me reading on. This book does tackle some difficult subjects but Kim Vogel Sawyer handles them so well.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
September 14, 2018
Sawyer writes a new kind of story with Ours for a Season! This isn't your typical conservative Christian book; instead, it will stretch your ideas of what Christians can do and how - and with whom - we should interact.
I love the way that Sawyer created main characters who were ultra-conservative Mennonites and then placed an important supporting character right behind them who was anything but. I love the contrast between these characters, the relationship between them, and the growth that springs up from the conflicts in this story.
The conflict isn't one you'll find anywhere else, either - and aren't you ready for a new plot line? I love the way that Sawyer wrote marital discord and spiritual discontent into a Mennonite family and then faced them with a slew of worldly problems. I love that - because problems aren't only for Christians or not, but people everywhere of all belief systems face them, and we all want to be able to face them in better ways. The characters in Ours for a Season definitely do that.
While the characters and conflict were unpredictable, I can't say the same for the eventual resolution. I did figure out what was going to happen partway through the story, but that didn't make the ending any less sweet. I enjoying seeing Marty, Brooke, and the others transform and grow throughout the book, and the plot twists were enjoyable. After turning the last page, I regretted it; I found myself wanting more time with these characters.
If you like to read sweet stories of faith, or stories that will poke you a bit and challenge you to live your faith out well, or even stories that deal with real issues facing American society today, then pick up a copy of Ours for a Season. You'll be glad you did.
I received a free copy of Ours for a Season from WaterBrook and Multnomah. All opinions are my own.
I love the way that Sawyer created main characters who were ultra-conservative Mennonites and then placed an important supporting character right behind them who was anything but. I love the contrast between these characters, the relationship between them, and the growth that springs up from the conflicts in this story.
The conflict isn't one you'll find anywhere else, either - and aren't you ready for a new plot line? I love the way that Sawyer wrote marital discord and spiritual discontent into a Mennonite family and then faced them with a slew of worldly problems. I love that - because problems aren't only for Christians or not, but people everywhere of all belief systems face them, and we all want to be able to face them in better ways. The characters in Ours for a Season definitely do that.
While the characters and conflict were unpredictable, I can't say the same for the eventual resolution. I did figure out what was going to happen partway through the story, but that didn't make the ending any less sweet. I enjoying seeing Marty, Brooke, and the others transform and grow throughout the book, and the plot twists were enjoyable. After turning the last page, I regretted it; I found myself wanting more time with these characters.
If you like to read sweet stories of faith, or stories that will poke you a bit and challenge you to live your faith out well, or even stories that deal with real issues facing American society today, then pick up a copy of Ours for a Season. You'll be glad you did.
I received a free copy of Ours for a Season from WaterBrook and Multnomah. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2018
'Would this fear be her companion for the next several months?'
I was a bit hesitant to read this book because I'm not an Amish/Mennonite fan. But this is very far from the typical Mennonite book. I've enjoyed Kim Vogel Sawyer's books and I read it on the strength of her name alone. I am so glad I did.
Anthony and Marty Hirschler are an Old Order Mennonite couple. They have grown apart since they were told they would never be able to have children. In their culture, that is a huge deal. Marty is practically despondent and does not enjoy life at all. She desperately wants away from their town in Indiana. Anthony is a contractor and works away from home a lot, often feeling guilty that he doesn't have to be around Marty's morose attitude. When Brooke Spaulding, Marty's childhood friend calls and wants Anthony to restore an old ghost town to a resort area, Marty feels it's God's answer to her prayers to get away. They leave to go and fulfill Brooke's request, not knowing that Brooke has recently been diagnosed with cancer. Everything that happens seems to be filling right in with God's plan for them. Then moral complications arise and they are torn with what to do? Should they leave? Should they trust God to reveal His plan?
Kim Vogel Sawyer tackles some pretty tough issues here: marital problems, infertility, cancer, human trafficking, and she does it very well. She fleshes out these characters so well that the reader feels each one's heart. It was a very moving book. Sawyer reaches deep into her readers' hearts and pulls them into the very lives of these characters. It was difficult to put down when life intruded. Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. All opinions expressed here are my own.
I was a bit hesitant to read this book because I'm not an Amish/Mennonite fan. But this is very far from the typical Mennonite book. I've enjoyed Kim Vogel Sawyer's books and I read it on the strength of her name alone. I am so glad I did.
Anthony and Marty Hirschler are an Old Order Mennonite couple. They have grown apart since they were told they would never be able to have children. In their culture, that is a huge deal. Marty is practically despondent and does not enjoy life at all. She desperately wants away from their town in Indiana. Anthony is a contractor and works away from home a lot, often feeling guilty that he doesn't have to be around Marty's morose attitude. When Brooke Spaulding, Marty's childhood friend calls and wants Anthony to restore an old ghost town to a resort area, Marty feels it's God's answer to her prayers to get away. They leave to go and fulfill Brooke's request, not knowing that Brooke has recently been diagnosed with cancer. Everything that happens seems to be filling right in with God's plan for them. Then moral complications arise and they are torn with what to do? Should they leave? Should they trust God to reveal His plan?
Kim Vogel Sawyer tackles some pretty tough issues here: marital problems, infertility, cancer, human trafficking, and she does it very well. She fleshes out these characters so well that the reader feels each one's heart. It was a very moving book. Sawyer reaches deep into her readers' hearts and pulls them into the very lives of these characters. It was difficult to put down when life intruded. Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. All opinions expressed here are my own.
February 20, 2020
Wow. This book surpassed all my expectations for an excellent read. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the author handled so many deep, and painful, plot lines, masterfully weaving them together for a satisfying conclusion. I didn’t agree with all the theology, but expected that from the beginning.
One of the most powerful messages to me in this book was how living in such a law-oriented religious society can be damaging to working through grief and pain. However, I also found the restored relationship between Marty and Anthony sweet and felt like they were a much better couple for enduring the heartache they did. The friendship between Marty and Brooke made this book sparkle- such a great example of enduring love.
One of the most powerful messages to me in this book was how living in such a law-oriented religious society can be damaging to working through grief and pain. However, I also found the restored relationship between Marty and Anthony sweet and felt like they were a much better couple for enduring the heartache they did. The friendship between Marty and Brooke made this book sparkle- such a great example of enduring love.
October 5, 2018
Anthony and Marty find they can’t have children and Marty is drifting from her faith in the old order Mennonite sect. Anthony spends all his time with his construction business. Marty’s old school friend Brooke, sends a letter wanting Anthony to come restore a Kansas ghost town into a resort. Brooke has cancer and Marty spends most of her time taking care of Brooke. Marty and Anthony wonder if something bigger is going to happen in their lives when they find a young runaway.
October 30, 2020
A much more complex and satisfying book then most of the ones I’ve read by Kim Vogel Sawyer. And I love her books! The deep emotional issues and cancer are dealt with in an authentic way and a wonderful story of God’s love.
May 23, 2018
A heartfelt story with a lot of spiritual and emotional depth. Characters whose lives take unexpected turns, struggle with their inner turmoil and search for peace and meaning in their lives.This is a multi layered novel, starting out a bit slow, but picking up the pace as they get involved in each others lives, and reach out to others, stretching their faith and learning to trust God on a deeper level.
I liked the character of Brooke the best with her determination for independence giving way to circumstances, and opening her eyes to God's love for her. Some serious issues are touched on in this book, like dealing with infertility, marital issues, serious illness, homeless teens, and sex trafficking.
Readers who like stories that include social issues from a Christian viewpoint will probably enjoy this book.
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
I liked the character of Brooke the best with her determination for independence giving way to circumstances, and opening her eyes to God's love for her. Some serious issues are touched on in this book, like dealing with infertility, marital issues, serious illness, homeless teens, and sex trafficking.
Readers who like stories that include social issues from a Christian viewpoint will probably enjoy this book.
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
September 9, 2018
Kim Vogel Sawyer’s newest novel, Ours for a Season, is a inspirational, yet emotional story. This is a book that is just wonderful, yet full of emotions. I don't cry a lot during books, but several times throughout this book, I had tears coming down my face. Ms. Sawyer knows how to bring out the emotions in this particular novel, especially as she draws in such a deep topic into the story and weaves it throughout. Weaving in human trafficking and homeless teenagers makes this story very relatable and also heartbreaking.
Also, the story of weaving in the heartbreak of not being able to conceive a child is also one that is painful and very real. I love that Ms. Sawyer is able to take difficult topics and put them into her books to make them relatable. I found this book to be inspiring and a book that I couldn't stop reading. I highly recommend reading it.
Also, the story of weaving in the heartbreak of not being able to conceive a child is also one that is painful and very real. I love that Ms. Sawyer is able to take difficult topics and put them into her books to make them relatable. I found this book to be inspiring and a book that I couldn't stop reading. I highly recommend reading it.
June 12, 2018
What a beautiful story!
Interesting how the childless Mennonites worked around the moral issues and trusted God to show them the way, and how He blessed them.
Brooke is a hoot, and I loved the way she and Marty interacted.
I don't want to give anything away.....but this is not your typical Mennenite story. This one takes Marty and Anthony far from their Mennenite community. We get to see how they handle living and working out in the real world. I loved watching how God worked in their lives and Brooke's.
I loved this story and I hope you will pick up a copy and let me know what you think of it.
Interesting how the childless Mennonites worked around the moral issues and trusted God to show them the way, and how He blessed them.
Brooke is a hoot, and I loved the way she and Marty interacted.
I don't want to give anything away.....but this is not your typical Mennenite story. This one takes Marty and Anthony far from their Mennenite community. We get to see how they handle living and working out in the real world. I loved watching how God worked in their lives and Brooke's.
I loved this story and I hope you will pick up a copy and let me know what you think of it.
April 9, 2018
This is a very well written book about how a Mennonite couple got involved in helping girls that were kidnapped for human trafficking. This was the first book I read by this author but it won't be the last. Thank you NetGalley for an ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.
April 9, 2018
Ours for a Season was not a normal Amish Romance for some reason I could not connect to the characters, however I finished it but it felt like it took forever to get thru.
September 22, 2018
Ours For a Season (2018) by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a phenomenal stand-alone novel. This book comes in all forms including eBook, and is 352 pages in length. With a full-time job and a very busy six-year old at home, this novel took me six days to read. I received a copy of this book in ARC paperback form from the publisher, WaterBrook. In no way has this influenced my opinion of the story. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give Ours For a Season 5+++++ STARS. This story is a Contemporary Christian Fiction novel.
Our earth hurts people. Women who desperately desire to be mothers are barren. Children who long for a family are homeless, hungry, and alone. Humans battling horrible illnesses are dying no matter how hard they fight. And, marriages that long to be happy are falling to pieces. Sometimes, it is easy to look at this earth and all its awful, demoralizing, devil-induced problems and fall into a sense of overwhelming despair. But God doesn't want us to give in to the ugly. God made each of us for an amazing purpose that might not change the entire world, but that can absolutely change ours for the better if only we give in to His will for us.
Ours For a Season is a book unlike any I've read before. I had no idea what I was getting into when I began this book. Honestly, I thought is was going to be another stereotypical Amish-y type story that I would be able to read through quickly. Yeah, that's not what this book is AT ALL! This novel took me six days to read -- probably the longest I've ever taken to read a novel. Ours For a Season is beautifully, flawlessly written. It is a well crafted book filled with characters who are beyond endearing. And, the plot flows so well. But, this book is hard to read. Ours For a Season deals many tough issues -- a broken marriage, a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments, homelessness, and sex trafficking just to name a few. All of the stressful and painful topics in this novel are dealt with respectfully and honestly, but made for a story I had to walk away from for a couple of hours in order to catch my breathe. I recommend a box of tissue or two while you're reading this story!
This story is told via three perspectives: Marty, her husband Anthony, and her best friend Brooke. I really appreciate when an author shows me multiple character points of view. To me, it makes the story all the more rich, and I feel like I get to know the characters better. Of the three main characters, I identified with Brooke the most. Brooke has had a very rough childhood -- her father is nonexistent and her mother is an abusive alcoholic. Of the many issues Brooke traverses in her fictional lifetime, it's the notion of not having a father that struck a chord with me. Brooke never knew an earthly father, and her mother was never a mother to her, which means that Brooke has had to always do life on her own. Brooke doesn't need anyone. When she is 36 years old, she finally is confronted with a weakness that forces her to rely on someone else. It is during this time of weakness that Brooke realizes she needs to fall into the arms of the only Abba that actually matters, our Heavenly Father. It takes her some time to build trust in God, but once she takes the leap, Brooke realizes that God's love and security as a Father is all she really needs.
The notion that God is the only Father I will ever need really resonated with me. I am blessed to have two earthly fathers -- my biological dad and my step-dad. I love both of my fathers very much, and do feel like God has blessed me big time by putting these men into my lives. But, as do all humans on this earth, my two dads have some flaws that I superimposed onto my benevolent Heavenly Father. My biological dad is smart and funny and genuinely cares as best he can, but he is also angry and runs away from everything and everyone. My step-father is wise beyond his years, loving, and excellent to talk to, but he has a mean streak that has punched my heart a time or two. Before my walk with God matured to where it is today, I used to think that God the Father was a big meanie. Yes, He loved, created, and cared, but He also could be angry, mean, and absent. As I got older I realized that I was unfairly attaching my earthly fathers' negative qualities to my Heavenly Father, and sought to discover God's true qualities. Like Brooke, it took me some time, and lots of Bible study and prayer, to uncover God's true fatherly qualities, but once I accepted that God loved me as a dad should, that He's my one true Abba, my life totally turned around for the better.
Ours For a Season is another fabulous novel that I cannot do justice to in one review. This novel is poignant, beautiful, heartbreaking, and hopeful. It made me cry hard. It made me angry. And, it made me so happy and hopeful. I definitely ran the gamut of emotions with this one! Ours For a Season is another 2018 must-read that I highly, highly recommend.
Our earth hurts people. Women who desperately desire to be mothers are barren. Children who long for a family are homeless, hungry, and alone. Humans battling horrible illnesses are dying no matter how hard they fight. And, marriages that long to be happy are falling to pieces. Sometimes, it is easy to look at this earth and all its awful, demoralizing, devil-induced problems and fall into a sense of overwhelming despair. But God doesn't want us to give in to the ugly. God made each of us for an amazing purpose that might not change the entire world, but that can absolutely change ours for the better if only we give in to His will for us.
Ours For a Season is a book unlike any I've read before. I had no idea what I was getting into when I began this book. Honestly, I thought is was going to be another stereotypical Amish-y type story that I would be able to read through quickly. Yeah, that's not what this book is AT ALL! This novel took me six days to read -- probably the longest I've ever taken to read a novel. Ours For a Season is beautifully, flawlessly written. It is a well crafted book filled with characters who are beyond endearing. And, the plot flows so well. But, this book is hard to read. Ours For a Season deals many tough issues -- a broken marriage, a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments, homelessness, and sex trafficking just to name a few. All of the stressful and painful topics in this novel are dealt with respectfully and honestly, but made for a story I had to walk away from for a couple of hours in order to catch my breathe. I recommend a box of tissue or two while you're reading this story!
This story is told via three perspectives: Marty, her husband Anthony, and her best friend Brooke. I really appreciate when an author shows me multiple character points of view. To me, it makes the story all the more rich, and I feel like I get to know the characters better. Of the three main characters, I identified with Brooke the most. Brooke has had a very rough childhood -- her father is nonexistent and her mother is an abusive alcoholic. Of the many issues Brooke traverses in her fictional lifetime, it's the notion of not having a father that struck a chord with me. Brooke never knew an earthly father, and her mother was never a mother to her, which means that Brooke has had to always do life on her own. Brooke doesn't need anyone. When she is 36 years old, she finally is confronted with a weakness that forces her to rely on someone else. It is during this time of weakness that Brooke realizes she needs to fall into the arms of the only Abba that actually matters, our Heavenly Father. It takes her some time to build trust in God, but once she takes the leap, Brooke realizes that God's love and security as a Father is all she really needs.
The notion that God is the only Father I will ever need really resonated with me. I am blessed to have two earthly fathers -- my biological dad and my step-dad. I love both of my fathers very much, and do feel like God has blessed me big time by putting these men into my lives. But, as do all humans on this earth, my two dads have some flaws that I superimposed onto my benevolent Heavenly Father. My biological dad is smart and funny and genuinely cares as best he can, but he is also angry and runs away from everything and everyone. My step-father is wise beyond his years, loving, and excellent to talk to, but he has a mean streak that has punched my heart a time or two. Before my walk with God matured to where it is today, I used to think that God the Father was a big meanie. Yes, He loved, created, and cared, but He also could be angry, mean, and absent. As I got older I realized that I was unfairly attaching my earthly fathers' negative qualities to my Heavenly Father, and sought to discover God's true qualities. Like Brooke, it took me some time, and lots of Bible study and prayer, to uncover God's true fatherly qualities, but once I accepted that God loved me as a dad should, that He's my one true Abba, my life totally turned around for the better.
Ours For a Season is another fabulous novel that I cannot do justice to in one review. This novel is poignant, beautiful, heartbreaking, and hopeful. It made me cry hard. It made me angry. And, it made me so happy and hopeful. I definitely ran the gamut of emotions with this one! Ours For a Season is another 2018 must-read that I highly, highly recommend.
February 3, 2019
How far would you go to get what you always dreamed of? How would you react if that dream was taken from you? That’s exactly the positions two childhood besties find themselves in. For very different dreams and very different reasons. Marty, a Mennonite woman only ever wanted a family. And family means children, not just a husband. Her dream, her only dream, was taken from her with a miscarriage and her husband contracting mumps as an adult. It’s not like this happened yesterday but even the few intervening years does not lesson the ache of her loss of family. The ache of being around others, especially others with children. She finds herself withdrawing more and more from her community and her husband. How would you react if your dreams were taken from you? Brooke on the other hand was raised by an alcoholic mother, no father to even name, and a childhood that no one dreams of. Her goal is to retire at 40 and she’s so close to exceeding that goal. One more project, this last property flip and the beach dreams of her retirement will come early. Until cancer. How far would you go to get what you always dreamed of? Two women, two completely different backgrounds, one time of growing up besties and they both have to decide how they want to move forward when their life doesn’t match their dreams.
Let me caution you here. While this is just another amazing book that truly draws you in and embraces you in a way that only Kim Vogel Sawyer can do. However, there are some hard topics in this book. Not on miscarriage and infertility but childhood neglect, depression, marital strife, and even deeper into sex trafficking, youth homelessness, and child abuse. Due to these topics, this book may not be a good choice for all readers. I strongly recommended this book however I am also aware that some of these topics might be triggering for some readers. That being said though the title is really pivotal in this book for me. In everything there is a season. A season of hurt (through miscarriage, infertility, marital strife, even homelessness). A season of hope (through friendship rekindled and marriage regrown). A season of contentment (just trust me here). Everything in life, everything we have, everything we struggle for, everything we lose is really ours for just a season. This theme goes so much deeper into the story than just what I’ve shared but spoilers ya know. Seasons. The passage from Ecclesiastes (3:1-8) really resonates for me throughout this book.
These characters aren’t perfect, and sometimes they are downright annoying. Marty can sometimes come off as whiny and Anthony can be overly self-absorbed. I struggled with Brooke from her sketchy start at life to townhouse in the city to living in a construction trailer. Her flipping from overly independent to excessively needy. She was the best and worst of Marty and Anthony thrown together in one person really. The difference is they find themselves living complex lives with complex events in a complex world. I think all of use would come across as all of these not so positive traits if our lives were dissected down the just a snapshot of time. I like to believe that I am more than the sum of my reactions during a season of time. I really did enjoy getting to know these people and sharing a season of their life. I learned a few of my own strengths and weaknesses through them and through their struggles. Life is not all sunshine and roses. But it’s also not all stormy skies and hazy gloom. Life is a mixed bundle of what may come. Life is seasons. Life is really just embracing each experience God grants you, learning all you can about yourself and the world through those experiences, and passing that forward. Happiness and Joy are not the same thing. Live your seasons. Learn to be open to where God wants you to be. Find Joy.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Edelweiss+. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Originally posted at https://fizzypopcollection.com/ours-f....
Let me caution you here. While this is just another amazing book that truly draws you in and embraces you in a way that only Kim Vogel Sawyer can do. However, there are some hard topics in this book. Not on miscarriage and infertility but childhood neglect, depression, marital strife, and even deeper into sex trafficking, youth homelessness, and child abuse. Due to these topics, this book may not be a good choice for all readers. I strongly recommended this book however I am also aware that some of these topics might be triggering for some readers. That being said though the title is really pivotal in this book for me. In everything there is a season. A season of hurt (through miscarriage, infertility, marital strife, even homelessness). A season of hope (through friendship rekindled and marriage regrown). A season of contentment (just trust me here). Everything in life, everything we have, everything we struggle for, everything we lose is really ours for just a season. This theme goes so much deeper into the story than just what I’ve shared but spoilers ya know. Seasons. The passage from Ecclesiastes (3:1-8) really resonates for me throughout this book.
These characters aren’t perfect, and sometimes they are downright annoying. Marty can sometimes come off as whiny and Anthony can be overly self-absorbed. I struggled with Brooke from her sketchy start at life to townhouse in the city to living in a construction trailer. Her flipping from overly independent to excessively needy. She was the best and worst of Marty and Anthony thrown together in one person really. The difference is they find themselves living complex lives with complex events in a complex world. I think all of use would come across as all of these not so positive traits if our lives were dissected down the just a snapshot of time. I like to believe that I am more than the sum of my reactions during a season of time. I really did enjoy getting to know these people and sharing a season of their life. I learned a few of my own strengths and weaknesses through them and through their struggles. Life is not all sunshine and roses. But it’s also not all stormy skies and hazy gloom. Life is a mixed bundle of what may come. Life is seasons. Life is really just embracing each experience God grants you, learning all you can about yourself and the world through those experiences, and passing that forward. Happiness and Joy are not the same thing. Live your seasons. Learn to be open to where God wants you to be. Find Joy.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Edelweiss+. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Originally posted at https://fizzypopcollection.com/ours-f....
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