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The Pocket Quilt #2
Pockets of Purpose
Two years after exchanging her first love letters with Gideon Petersheim, Dixie Yoder tucks his notes into her pocket quilt and travels from Pinecraft to Holmes County, hopeful for a future together. Upon her arrival, their relationship blossoms until the auctioneer has surgery to remove a cyst from his vocal cords. Complications from the procedure interfere with his healing, leaving him searching for his passions and purpose. Instead of leaning on Dixie through this tough time, he pushes her away and turns his back on God. Having lost everything, he must fight his way back to her, but his apology is long overdue. Should she stay in Ohio with the new friends she has grown to love? Or should he pack her bags and head home to Pinecraft?
216 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 19, 2021
A beautiful and tender love story that swept me in almost from the beginning of the book. I love Amish Romance and this one didn't disappoint. I thought it was very realistic and emotional at times but in a good way. I loved all the characters and each one added to the story. The main point was that when one door closes God will open another door. You have only to trust God as you step through that new door.
Gideon Petersheim met Dixie Yoder while he was on vacation in Pinecraft Florida. The two had become attracted to each other and shared a long distance relationship. They had faithfully written each other for two years. Gideon wanted a future with Dixie and he had made plans towards that goal. But then those plans fell apart leaving him upset and uncertain about a future with Dixie. Why did God do this to him?
Dixie had travelled to Ohio to visit Gideon. Things had gone well the first few weeks of her visit but then things seem to change between them. Gideon began to avoid Dixie leaving her hurting and uncertain about a future with him. Had he lost interest in her since she had first come to visit him?
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction. This is the second book in The Pocket Quilt series. Release date is June 30th 2021.
I received a pdf Arc copy of this book. Thank you. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Gideon Petersheim met Dixie Yoder while he was on vacation in Pinecraft Florida. The two had become attracted to each other and shared a long distance relationship. They had faithfully written each other for two years. Gideon wanted a future with Dixie and he had made plans towards that goal. But then those plans fell apart leaving him upset and uncertain about a future with Dixie. Why did God do this to him?
Dixie had travelled to Ohio to visit Gideon. Things had gone well the first few weeks of her visit but then things seem to change between them. Gideon began to avoid Dixie leaving her hurting and uncertain about a future with him. Had he lost interest in her since she had first come to visit him?
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction. This is the second book in The Pocket Quilt series. Release date is June 30th 2021.
I received a pdf Arc copy of this book. Thank you. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed here are my own.
May 5, 2022
Love stories where notes and letters are passed and one full of realism. Laurie has done it again. What a great second edition to these series
April 28, 2021
Such a heart warming story, a young Amish couple have been exchanging love letters for awhile, and Dixie Yoder just knows that Gideon Petersheim is the one. So with her heart on her sleeve she leaves her home and family in Pinecraft Florida and heads to Ohio, in hopes of taking their relationship further.
Life looks like it is going to be a match made in Heaven, when things go wrong with auctioneer Gideon’s voice.
He then heads into depression, and self pity to the point our girl doesn’t know what to do or how to help.
We are there for this sweet story, through pain and chuckles, and loss and moving forward, and in the end you won’t want to leave.
I so glad I decided to read this one, you will not be disappointed, and there is an epilogue!
I received this book through Vinspire Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
Life looks like it is going to be a match made in Heaven, when things go wrong with auctioneer Gideon’s voice.
He then heads into depression, and self pity to the point our girl doesn’t know what to do or how to help.
We are there for this sweet story, through pain and chuckles, and loss and moving forward, and in the end you won’t want to leave.
I so glad I decided to read this one, you will not be disappointed, and there is an epilogue!
I received this book through Vinspire Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 9, 2021
Pockets of Purpose is an enjoyable second installment in Laurie Stroup Smith's Pocket Quilt Series.
Gideon and Dixie are interesting characters who carry the main story, with lots of supporting cast in their family and friends. Gideon and Dixie have a special friendship that at first is a long distance one maintained mostly by letters between his Ohio community and her Florida home. When Dixie has the opportunity to visit Ohio, they have the opportunity for that friendship to grow, but health issues, frustrations, fears, and miscommunication provide obstacles in the hopes of their relationship developing further. How to handle those obstacles is the major theme of their story.
As with any good Amish story, the author uses many elements of that lifestyle to make the story come alive. But much of the heart of the story is a reminder of how depending on God and on trusted friends and family can make all the difference in the world for anyone faced with life's difficulties.
I highly recommend Pockets of Purpose to fans of good Amish fiction. There are some appearances of characters from the first book in the series, but this book can be read either as a continuation of that story or as a standalone.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book. I am happy to share my own thoughts in this review.
Gideon and Dixie are interesting characters who carry the main story, with lots of supporting cast in their family and friends. Gideon and Dixie have a special friendship that at first is a long distance one maintained mostly by letters between his Ohio community and her Florida home. When Dixie has the opportunity to visit Ohio, they have the opportunity for that friendship to grow, but health issues, frustrations, fears, and miscommunication provide obstacles in the hopes of their relationship developing further. How to handle those obstacles is the major theme of their story.
As with any good Amish story, the author uses many elements of that lifestyle to make the story come alive. But much of the heart of the story is a reminder of how depending on God and on trusted friends and family can make all the difference in the world for anyone faced with life's difficulties.
I highly recommend Pockets of Purpose to fans of good Amish fiction. There are some appearances of characters from the first book in the series, but this book can be read either as a continuation of that story or as a standalone.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book. I am happy to share my own thoughts in this review.
July 7, 2021
Pockets of Purpose is the second book in the Pocket Quilts series, and I love that notes and letters once again play such an important role. Much of the courtship of Dixie Yoder and Gideon Petersheim is done through letter writing, and Dixie's sweet notes are filled with hope and encouragement. It appears that their future will be shared together until...unexpected hardships cast huge shadows on their plans.
Author Laurie Stroup Smith shares a realistic story of two people who struggle with anger and doubts, and she offers readers a powerful reminder that trust in God is essential. Pockets of Purpose is a heartwarming book filled with hope, love, and forgiveness. I recommend it to all who enjoy Christian fiction and I look forward to Smith's next writing project!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review wasn't required. These are my own thoughts.
Author Laurie Stroup Smith shares a realistic story of two people who struggle with anger and doubts, and she offers readers a powerful reminder that trust in God is essential. Pockets of Purpose is a heartwarming book filled with hope, love, and forgiveness. I recommend it to all who enjoy Christian fiction and I look forward to Smith's next writing project!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review wasn't required. These are my own thoughts.
June 11, 2021
This was a sweet Amish romance. I liked that the romance side was lighter. I also liked that they struggled with health issues because it made them more relatable. It was also nice reading about characters from the first book. I really like Laurie Stroup Smith’s writing! I was able to read this whole book in one sitting!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 25, 2021
Pockets of Purpose is a sweet follow-up to Smith’s debut, Pockets of Promise. Readers who enjoyed her first Pocket Quilt novel will definitely love this second book in the series, too! The author’s engaging writing style draws you into the story, and the characters will take up residence in your heart. Especially sweet little Ruby King and her adorable lisp!
Gideon & Dixie met two years ago when Gideon was on vacation in Pinecraft, the popular Amish beach destination & Dixie’s home. Since then, their romance has been mainly carried out long distance, via affectionate letters that Dixie lovingly stores in her pocket quilt. (A side note: I love reading about Pinecraft, something about it just fascinates me. Even though I’m not a huge fan of beaches or Florida, books like those in this series make me want to visit some day.) Dixie is thrilled at the opportunity to visit Gideon (and her friend Mariah from book one) in Ohio for the summer and carries with her the hope that a ‘forever’ with Gideon is in her near future. However, as is wont to happen, things don’t turn out quite as either of them planned, and Smith weaves a gentle path through their journey that keeps readers invested in the outcome.
While most readers will likely take Dixie’s side and want to purse whomp Gideon (and I get that, totally. I did, too, a couple of times.), I also very much sympathized with Gideon and his feelings. I know the swirl of emotions and doubt that you experience when something is wrong with your body & you are powerless to change it, particularly when – like Gideon – that something wrong means your dreams, your passions, your purposes may suddenly look different than they did when you were healthy. Been there. Done that. And the author authentically captures this struggle, as well as the lessons God teaches him in the process. I loved Dixie’s personality, her warm heart, her giggles … her reaction to a conversation with Gideon near the end of the story still has me grinning when I think about it. She’s just really cute, and she’s a great match for Gideon’s more serious side.
Bottom Line: Pockets of Purpose by Laurie Stroup Smith is a light romance with a sweet message and characters you’ll fully embrace. Readers who enjoyed the first book in Smith’s Pocket Quilt series will love visiting with familiar characters again and catching up on their lives. Dixie and Gideon are engaging characters you’ll be rooting for, and their journey to trusting God’s plan for their lives (even when it’s different from their own) is heartwarming and tender. A great choice for fans of Wanda E. Brunstetter and Beverly Lewis!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed on Reading Is My SuperPower
Gideon & Dixie met two years ago when Gideon was on vacation in Pinecraft, the popular Amish beach destination & Dixie’s home. Since then, their romance has been mainly carried out long distance, via affectionate letters that Dixie lovingly stores in her pocket quilt. (A side note: I love reading about Pinecraft, something about it just fascinates me. Even though I’m not a huge fan of beaches or Florida, books like those in this series make me want to visit some day.) Dixie is thrilled at the opportunity to visit Gideon (and her friend Mariah from book one) in Ohio for the summer and carries with her the hope that a ‘forever’ with Gideon is in her near future. However, as is wont to happen, things don’t turn out quite as either of them planned, and Smith weaves a gentle path through their journey that keeps readers invested in the outcome.
While most readers will likely take Dixie’s side and want to purse whomp Gideon (and I get that, totally. I did, too, a couple of times.), I also very much sympathized with Gideon and his feelings. I know the swirl of emotions and doubt that you experience when something is wrong with your body & you are powerless to change it, particularly when – like Gideon – that something wrong means your dreams, your passions, your purposes may suddenly look different than they did when you were healthy. Been there. Done that. And the author authentically captures this struggle, as well as the lessons God teaches him in the process. I loved Dixie’s personality, her warm heart, her giggles … her reaction to a conversation with Gideon near the end of the story still has me grinning when I think about it. She’s just really cute, and she’s a great match for Gideon’s more serious side.
Bottom Line: Pockets of Purpose by Laurie Stroup Smith is a light romance with a sweet message and characters you’ll fully embrace. Readers who enjoyed the first book in Smith’s Pocket Quilt series will love visiting with familiar characters again and catching up on their lives. Dixie and Gideon are engaging characters you’ll be rooting for, and their journey to trusting God’s plan for their lives (even when it’s different from their own) is heartwarming and tender. A great choice for fans of Wanda E. Brunstetter and Beverly Lewis!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed on Reading Is My SuperPower
July 13, 2021
He will cover you with his feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge” (Psalm 91:4)
Have you ever found peace birdwatching? Dixie Yoder, the heroine of Laurie Stroup Smith’s Pockets of Purpose has a particular fondness for birds. She feels God’s presence in the company of a red cardinal. In this second book of her Pocket Quilt series, Smith ties scriptural references into the novel’s primary themes, and birds are a central motif. Along with the novel’s introductory verse (quoted above), there are references, both direct and indirect, to other verses, including Isaiah 40:31 and Matthew 6:26. Birds also play key roles in several scenes. It’s all done so well that you’ll take more notice of birds in your everyday life!
I enjoyed Dixie and Gideon’s story. Just as letters played a role in book one, they are important here, too. The pair’s long-distance courtship has been maintained through letters. We get to see some of those in the early pages, and they are cute. Dixie is a sweet character with a servant’s heart; Gideon is confident and attentive. Dixie goes to Ohio hoping to find out if they have a future together.
Each of them wrestles with questions and doubt when faced with hardship. When things don’t go as expected or planned, each deals with anger and negative thoughts. Smith uses their troubles to remind readers of how allowing negative thoughts free reign can lead to selfishness, whereas serving others lightens your own load. Letting go of control and pride allows God and others to bless you. Furthermore, Smith highlights the importance of prayer, patience, forgiveness, and trusting in God’s provision. She says it best in her letter to readers in the book’s end matter: “God is bigger than all we are experiencing here on this earth, and I encourage you to lean into your faith when the questions and doubts become overwhelming.”
I was delighted to have discovered Laurie Stroup Smith when I read Pockets of Promise. And after reading Dixie and Gideon’s story, I will be sure to catch every future release from Smith. Her heartwarming stories with messages of hope centered around faith make Laurie Stroup Smith a welcome addition to Amish Fiction!
5 of 5 Hearts: A Heartwarming Message of Hope!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Laurie Stroup Smith and Vinspire Publishing for providing me with a copy of Pockets of Purpose.
Have you ever found peace birdwatching? Dixie Yoder, the heroine of Laurie Stroup Smith’s Pockets of Purpose has a particular fondness for birds. She feels God’s presence in the company of a red cardinal. In this second book of her Pocket Quilt series, Smith ties scriptural references into the novel’s primary themes, and birds are a central motif. Along with the novel’s introductory verse (quoted above), there are references, both direct and indirect, to other verses, including Isaiah 40:31 and Matthew 6:26. Birds also play key roles in several scenes. It’s all done so well that you’ll take more notice of birds in your everyday life!
I enjoyed Dixie and Gideon’s story. Just as letters played a role in book one, they are important here, too. The pair’s long-distance courtship has been maintained through letters. We get to see some of those in the early pages, and they are cute. Dixie is a sweet character with a servant’s heart; Gideon is confident and attentive. Dixie goes to Ohio hoping to find out if they have a future together.
Each of them wrestles with questions and doubt when faced with hardship. When things don’t go as expected or planned, each deals with anger and negative thoughts. Smith uses their troubles to remind readers of how allowing negative thoughts free reign can lead to selfishness, whereas serving others lightens your own load. Letting go of control and pride allows God and others to bless you. Furthermore, Smith highlights the importance of prayer, patience, forgiveness, and trusting in God’s provision. She says it best in her letter to readers in the book’s end matter: “God is bigger than all we are experiencing here on this earth, and I encourage you to lean into your faith when the questions and doubts become overwhelming.”
I was delighted to have discovered Laurie Stroup Smith when I read Pockets of Promise. And after reading Dixie and Gideon’s story, I will be sure to catch every future release from Smith. Her heartwarming stories with messages of hope centered around faith make Laurie Stroup Smith a welcome addition to Amish Fiction!
5 of 5 Hearts: A Heartwarming Message of Hope!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Laurie Stroup Smith and Vinspire Publishing for providing me with a copy of Pockets of Purpose.
June 8, 2021
Pockets of Purpose is an engaging and emotional read that captured my heart from the beginning. The long distance relationship between Dixie and Gideon blossomed through their exchange of letters. When Dixie had an opportunity to visit her friend Mariah in Holmes County, Ohio she was excited she would be seeing Gideon again. Gideon career was being an auctioneer, which I loved for his profession. He had strive and worked hard to be the best one around. Without any symptoms he found himself with a raspy voice and unable to “cry” the auction sales. Gideon felt forlorn with the news of his doctor and shut himself away. Dixie was perplexed why and even hurt with him not coming to tell her or seeing her afterwards. How will the two of them ever be able to become a couple with shattered dreams?
This beautiful Amish romance is filled with trials, unexpected news but caring and loving characters that gave new hope to the hero and heroine. There is a theme of forgiveness and that God’s ways and will are higher than ours when we open our hearts to Him to lead the way.
I highly recommend Laurie Stroup Smith to Amish fiction readers. This is her second book in her Pocket Quilt series. Pockets of Promise book one introduce readers to Dixie and Gideon when he was visiting in Pinecraft, FL. This book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading book one first.
I received a complimentary e-book from the author without any obligation too write a positive review. I have shared my own thoughts for this beautiful story.
This beautiful Amish romance is filled with trials, unexpected news but caring and loving characters that gave new hope to the hero and heroine. There is a theme of forgiveness and that God’s ways and will are higher than ours when we open our hearts to Him to lead the way.
I highly recommend Laurie Stroup Smith to Amish fiction readers. This is her second book in her Pocket Quilt series. Pockets of Promise book one introduce readers to Dixie and Gideon when he was visiting in Pinecraft, FL. This book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading book one first.
I received a complimentary e-book from the author without any obligation too write a positive review. I have shared my own thoughts for this beautiful story.
August 17, 2021
Pockets of Purpose by Laurie Stroup Smith is book 2 in The Pocket Quilt Series
You could read this book as a stand alone however I would not suggest it as you would miss so much of the back story with the characters.
Gideon Petersheim meets Dixie Yoder In Pinecraft Florida where Dixie lives in Book 1 and now in book 2 Dixie will travel to Holmes county where Gideon lives.
In This story you will see just how a person can grow and enrich to reach the dreams God has planned for them even when they believe their life has fallen apart and reached a road block.
When Gideon finds himself in a life changing situation, he soon also learns he has to lean on those closest to him and trust in God to know the right path for his life, just because a door closed yes a better one will open and those who love and support him will be by his side.
Dixie is positive she has made the right decision to travel to Holmes county, then again could she have made a really big mistake? She loves her new friends, but is frustrated. When Dixie has her own trouble arise has God shown her who she can rely on or is he giving her the opportunity to open her heart to pray more?
I Thoroughly enjoyed this book and Laurie Stroup Smith has done an amazing job with the story line and creating characters that pull you in and not only hold your attention but in a way that you feel your part of their family. I’m hoping we have not heard the last of this story as I would like to continue to see what happens with these characters. I highly recommend this book and book 1 in this series
You could read this book as a stand alone however I would not suggest it as you would miss so much of the back story with the characters.
Gideon Petersheim meets Dixie Yoder In Pinecraft Florida where Dixie lives in Book 1 and now in book 2 Dixie will travel to Holmes county where Gideon lives.
In This story you will see just how a person can grow and enrich to reach the dreams God has planned for them even when they believe their life has fallen apart and reached a road block.
When Gideon finds himself in a life changing situation, he soon also learns he has to lean on those closest to him and trust in God to know the right path for his life, just because a door closed yes a better one will open and those who love and support him will be by his side.
Dixie is positive she has made the right decision to travel to Holmes county, then again could she have made a really big mistake? She loves her new friends, but is frustrated. When Dixie has her own trouble arise has God shown her who she can rely on or is he giving her the opportunity to open her heart to pray more?
I Thoroughly enjoyed this book and Laurie Stroup Smith has done an amazing job with the story line and creating characters that pull you in and not only hold your attention but in a way that you feel your part of their family. I’m hoping we have not heard the last of this story as I would like to continue to see what happens with these characters. I highly recommend this book and book 1 in this series
July 12, 2021
Pockets of Purpose by Laurie Stroup Smith is a charming Amish novel. Dixie Yoder has been corresponding with Gideon Petersheim since he visited Pinecraft, Florida two years prior. Dixie gets a chance to visit Holmes County thanks to an invitation from her friend, Mariah. When Dixie learns that Gideon will be having surgery on a cyst in his throat, she arranges to leave early so she can care for him. Unfortunately, Gideon’s surgery is not a success and his career as an auctioneer is in tatters. Gideon pushes away the caring Dixie which has her pondering her future. What does God have in store for Dixie and Gideon? I enjoyed reading this heartwarming Amish tale. Pockets of Purpose is well-written with engaging characters. I love Dixie’s outlook on life. The author provided beautiful descriptions of Holmes County and the characters. That is important to me because it allows me to envision the scenes in my mind. I found myself quickly turning the pages so I could find out how this story would end. Pockets of Purpose is the second book in The Pocket Quilt Series, but it can be read as a standalone. Personally, I feel it is better to have read Pockets of Promise first (it was a delightful story). I am glad we get to catch up with Mariah and Josiah. I appreciated the epilogue at the end which wrapped up the story plus a glimpse at a new couple (maybe they will be in the next book). This is a sweet wholesome Christian story (kissing only). My favorite phrase from Pockets of Purpose is, “Try not to dwell on what isn’t going to be or what might not happen. Tomorrow will have enough worries of its own.” There are good life lessons in Pockets of Purpose including that when one door closes, you need to trust that God will open another one for you. You just have to be brave enough plus have faith in God to walk through that newly opened door. Pockets of Purpose is an uplifting Amish tale with an anxious auctioneer, precious pockets, lengthy letters, a caring community, a serious surgery, and a compassionate maedel.
July 16, 2021
Even Amish fiction writers can succumb to the "romantic formula" for writing novels. Laurie Stroup Smith did that, but every line she wrote only added to the story, and it wasn't just a trite use of a common trope.
Dixie and Gideon have been exchanging letters for two years, since they met while his family was on vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Every letter drew them closer together, so that when Dixie had an opportunity to go to Holmes County to see Gideon, she jumped at the chance.
Gideon is an auctioneer who is having troubles with his voice. After seeing a doctor, he finds that he has a cyst on his vocal cords and needs surgery. When the surgery creates scar tissue and puts paid to his career, Gideon dives deep into his own misery and shuts Dixie out. It comes to the point that Dixie no longer feels welcome and decides to go back home.
So the formula is boy meets girl, boy gets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl back. That is exactly what happened through the pages of this book. But like I said earlier, the author has done a masterful job in making the the formula work, because she explores the emotions, disappointments, and the very human reactions to situations beyond the characters control. It makes the book very readable and enjoyable.
Four Stars
Vinspire Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Dixie and Gideon have been exchanging letters for two years, since they met while his family was on vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Every letter drew them closer together, so that when Dixie had an opportunity to go to Holmes County to see Gideon, she jumped at the chance.
Gideon is an auctioneer who is having troubles with his voice. After seeing a doctor, he finds that he has a cyst on his vocal cords and needs surgery. When the surgery creates scar tissue and puts paid to his career, Gideon dives deep into his own misery and shuts Dixie out. It comes to the point that Dixie no longer feels welcome and decides to go back home.
So the formula is boy meets girl, boy gets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl back. That is exactly what happened through the pages of this book. But like I said earlier, the author has done a masterful job in making the the formula work, because she explores the emotions, disappointments, and the very human reactions to situations beyond the characters control. It makes the book very readable and enjoyable.
Four Stars
Vinspire Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
July 19, 2021
This is a sweet and thoughtful Amish story that was a delight to read. Gideon and Dixie’s transition from a long-distance romance through letters to a real, in-person romance doesn’t go as smoothly was either of them had hoped or planned. Several unexpected difficulties met them along the way. Not only was the strength of their relationship tested, but also the depth of their trust in God. The characters of Gideon and Dixie come to life in this book, and following their journey was interesting. But as I was reading their story, I was reminded that God is also at work in my own life. The theme of “trusting in God at all times” shines all throughout the storyline. This book is encouraging, entertaining reading. Laurie Stroup Smith has become one of my favorite Amish authors. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 12, 2021
Book 2 in the Pocket Quilt series, you can read this as a stand alone, so just jump in. Author Laurie Stroup Smith writes an Amish story based on pocket quilts. I love the concept of these, and even have my own small quilted pocket pillow. They’re such fun!
The characters in this charming story are well developed and likeable. It was hard to “see” Gideon work through the surgery complications and the changes it brought to his life. But so rewarding to see him grow and come to accept some things. And poor Dixie was heartbroken which again, isn’t fun to “see.” I really wondered what would happen with these two as they both learned to trust God when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you enjoy Amish fiction with light romance and a scriptural basis, then I recommend Pockets of Purpose.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
The characters in this charming story are well developed and likeable. It was hard to “see” Gideon work through the surgery complications and the changes it brought to his life. But so rewarding to see him grow and come to accept some things. And poor Dixie was heartbroken which again, isn’t fun to “see.” I really wondered what would happen with these two as they both learned to trust God when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you enjoy Amish fiction with light romance and a scriptural basis, then I recommend Pockets of Purpose.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
May 26, 2021
This is the second book in the series, but it could be read as a standalone.
The author has crafted a heartwarming tale with realistic characters and relatable struggles. I liked how Dixie has asthma--something I don't recall ever seeing in another Amish-themed novel. I don't think I've ever read one with an auctioneer, either. Gideon's battle to find himself after life throws him a curveball in encouraging. Themes of love, loss, and discovering God's plan for your life are key.
If you're a fan of Amish fiction or sweet romances (especially ones where the romance angle isn't overpowering), this is a great book to check out!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
The author has crafted a heartwarming tale with realistic characters and relatable struggles. I liked how Dixie has asthma--something I don't recall ever seeing in another Amish-themed novel. I don't think I've ever read one with an auctioneer, either. Gideon's battle to find himself after life throws him a curveball in encouraging. Themes of love, loss, and discovering God's plan for your life are key.
If you're a fan of Amish fiction or sweet romances (especially ones where the romance angle isn't overpowering), this is a great book to check out!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
June 30, 2021
This is my favorite of the series so far. I love how the book focus' on allowing yourself to feel what you feel but then you forgive and move on. I think as a society we are too focused on all the wrongs done to us or the ones we love and focus on hurting others or making others feel worse than we do. Smith helps show us how much forgiving can make our lives better without giving us a sermon.
Dixie and Gideon's love story is beautifully written. A clean Christian read (no foul language or sex scenes) that can be shared with the teenager in your life. I found it hard to put down as I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. I kept flipping the pages until I was at the end and wanted more.
Each book in the series can be read as a standalone.
Dixie and Gideon's love story is beautifully written. A clean Christian read (no foul language or sex scenes) that can be shared with the teenager in your life. I found it hard to put down as I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. I kept flipping the pages until I was at the end and wanted more.
Each book in the series can be read as a standalone.
August 14, 2021
Pockets of Purpose is a wonderful story written by Laurie Stroup Smith in her series, The Pocket Quilts. The author has told a sweet, forgiving story thru her well developed characters. This story teaches the readers when life doesn't go as planned there is always another path. This story is filled with love, faith, and forgiveness.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with four stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with four stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
October 1, 2021
I have read books from this author before and I sure like her voice in Amish fiction.
I love her descriptions of Pinecraft, Florida and Holmes Co, Ohio. She made me feel like I was there especially Pinecraft. I want to visit so bad!
I also love how she shows that not everything goes right and does an excellent job in portraying Dixie and Gideon's feelings. Made them so lifelike. Well done!
I stayed up to finish this book. I found myself rooting for this lovely couple.
I wasn't one bit disappointed in this story. I love sweet reads like this.
5 stars for writing well done!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review.
I love her descriptions of Pinecraft, Florida and Holmes Co, Ohio. She made me feel like I was there especially Pinecraft. I want to visit so bad!
I also love how she shows that not everything goes right and does an excellent job in portraying Dixie and Gideon's feelings. Made them so lifelike. Well done!
I stayed up to finish this book. I found myself rooting for this lovely couple.
I wasn't one bit disappointed in this story. I love sweet reads like this.
5 stars for writing well done!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review.
June 18, 2021
A beautiful Amish story with realistic characters facing unexpected obstacles, who overcome it all by grace and love. Laurie Stroup Smith gives us another great book in the Pocket Quilt Series to remind us that life does not always work out as we planned, but God is still good and makes a way for us. This book can be read as a standalone, but I appreciated getting to see some of the characters from Book One again.
July 11, 2023
The second book in the Pocket Quilt Series was as good a page turner as the first. Gideon and Dixie met a couple years ago but lived in two different environments and states. Dixie decides to find out if her and Gideon has a future together. Gideon must work through some very disturbing news and it could cost him his relationship with Dixie. Great story!
July 9, 2021
Beautiful story!
I really enjoyed Gideon and Dixie’s story and the way their relationship developed. Both had to learn patience with each other. The special friendships they formed with each other’s and those in Gideon’s community were heartwarming.
I really enjoyed Gideon and Dixie’s story and the way their relationship developed. Both had to learn patience with each other. The special friendships they formed with each other’s and those in Gideon’s community were heartwarming.
April 21, 2022
One book that will tug at your heartstrings. Story line brings faith and forgiveness to the forefront. I love how Laurie Stroup Smith has incorporated the quilt and pockets on the cover and the story. One book that you will want it to not end but leaves you wanting more.
July 30, 2021
God’s plans
Just when they think they have it all figured out! God’s plans may not be yours, but they are perfect for you! Thank you for another great story.
Just when they think they have it all figured out! God’s plans may not be yours, but they are perfect for you! Thank you for another great story.
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