Pockets of Peace

The Pocket Quilt #3

by Laurie Stroup Smith

Five years after an unexpected pregnancy forces Lydia Byler to make difficult decisions, she is offered a job helping Birdie Miller manage her bed and breakfast in Pinecraft. Single, shunned, and desperate for a fresh start, Lydia agrees to relocate and reunites with the handsome Wesley Hochstetler.

Wesley has only ever had eyes for Lydia. Though their paths have crossed many times over the years, they never discussed the possibility of spending forever together. When she moves to town, he believes it’s God’s will for them to pursue a romantic relationship. But he doesn’t know about her pregnancy or the adoption that followed.

Inspired by a letter from the child’s adoptive parents, Lydia sews a pocket quilt for the boy. She learns he and his family will soon visit Pinecraft, and the burden of her secret becomes too much to bear. The truth comes to light, straining her bond with Wesley.

Genres: Amish Fiction, Amish

203 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is Amish Fiction/Women’s Fiction. I found it to be an emotional story about an Amish girl who made some mistakes in her life and as a result she was shunned by the Bishop and the Amish church. The Author has penned a very realistic story about the consequences this young lady had to endure because of the mistakes she made in her young life. I thought the book was entertaining, original, easy to read, inspirational, romantic, a page turner and unpredictable a time or two. I was completely drawn into the book from the beginning and on through the epilogue.

During Lydia Byler’s rumspringa she made some poor choices and found herself in the wrong crowd. She became pregnant with an Englishers baby. The man didn’t want to except responsibility for the child and Lydia was left to face the Amish Bishop, the community and her family by herself. The Bishop ordered her shunned and excommunicated from the Amish community. With no where to go and no one to turn to she excepted help from a family friend in another town. Lydia would need to make a decision about her baby and it would be a hard one for her to make. Then readers are taken five years later in Lydia’s life as she tries to live with the decisions she made for her baby. She is reunited with a friend she grew up with after she makes a move to Pinecraft Florida. Lydia keeps secrets about her past from him. How will he react towards her when he learns the truth?

I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction and Woman’s Fiction. This book is part of a series and is the third and final book. It can be read as a standalone book but the other two books in this series are so good that I wouldn’t want you to miss reading them. This book is scheduled to be released on 5/24/22.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

#PocketsofPeace#LaurieStroupSmith

[Mindy Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great conclusion to a wonderful series. Loved the returning characters and once I started reading, I couldn't put it down until I knew how this love story would end.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pockets of Peace by Laurie Stroup Smith is a heartwarming Amish tale. It is the third book in The Pocket Quilt series. Each book in this charming series can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading each book in this engaging series. We travel to Pinecraft, Florida where Lydia Byler is hoping for a fresh start. She gave up a baby boy for adoption five years ago and the memories still haunt her. Lydia gets to reconnect with Wesley Hockstetler to whom she has been attracted for many years. Wesley, though, is not aware of her situation. Lydia learns that her son’s adoptive parents are coming to Pinecraft and that he has been asking questions about her. She is inspired to create a pocket quilt for him using material from her maternity dresses. Lydia includes notes for the boy that she hopes will answer any questions he asks. Lydia worries what will happen with Wesley when her secret is exposed. I thought Pockets of Peace was well-written with realistic characters and situations. I liked getting to know Lydia, Wesley, Birdie, Noelle, Luke, Roxie, and the other characters. I enjoyed the authors beautiful descriptions of Pinecraft. Her vivid word imagery brought the area alive for me. Pinecraft to be a unique community where Amish and Mennonite live and work. Bicycles are the main mode of transportation (no place to keep horses in Pinecraft). Adoption and the pocket quilt are two of the themes in the story. There are touching scenes with Lydia writing the notes and making the quilt. I liked how Lydia helped out at the local women’s shelter and the way the author handled the topic of domestic abuse. I loved little Roxie. I liked seeing Lydia get to know Roxie and help her plus her mother. Pockets of Peace is a poignant Amish tale that provided a special conclusion to the series. I am sorry to see The Pocket Quilt series come to an end. Pockets of Peace is a special Amish tale with an unplanned pregnancy, beautiful beaches, a shameful secret, indulgent ice cream, a beloved boy, a precious pocket quilt, and powerful prayers.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pockets of Peace is an engaging story from the start, that I read it in one sitting. Lydia Byler had faced plenty of hurts in her teen years. She buried her secrets in Ohio to keep going, but when opportunity to help Birdie with her B and B in Pinecraft , Florida she accepted the opportunity. Lydia’s and Wesley’s story brought tears and smiles as they truly learned to share their hearts.

This isn’t the typical Amish romance as the author dealt with some difficult issues that young people can face when they stray from truth. The story flowed with grace, hope, love and peace and discovering ways to let your light shine despite past circumstances. The ending gave way to unexpected events to bring restoration and ashes to beauty with God’s love shining brightly for each one. This is my favorite story in The Pockets of Quilt series by Laurie Stroup Smith.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author without any obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own opinion.

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this heartwarming story! It’s my favorite in the series. Fantastic storyline, beautiful setting and wonderful characters made this novel a pleasure to read. If you’re looking for a summer vacation read, pick up the entire series and enjoy.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy. All opinions are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been wanting to read Lydia Byler’s story ever since I knew that this third book of The Pocket Quilt series would feature her. We met her in Pockets of Promise as a bit of a wild child who didn’t always make good or wise decisions. In Pockets of Purpose we see an infatuation deepen between her and the handsome & sweet Wesley Hochstetler. But in the six years that have spanned fictional time from the end of that book to the beginning of this one, life has greatly changed Lydia Byler… and life has greatly changed for Lydia Byler.

When we meet up with Lydia again, she is at the very end of an unexpected pregnancy and continuing her relationship with Wesley by phone, something which allows her changed circumstances to remain a secret from him. (Note: Smith approaches the circumstances surrounding Lydia’s pregnancy with grace and sensitivity, giving us just enough pieces to put together the puzzle on our own, but just be aware of this plot point in case it is difficult for you to read about.) And then we all jump forward five years to find Lydia once more in Pinecraft, starting a new job at our beloved Birdie Miller’s B&B. Just knowing we were back at Birdie’s inn was enough to make me put this book on my TBR list, even if I hadn’t already wanted to read it. I love Birdie’s character and I’ve loved the contribution she’s made to the tone of this series. (It’s not necessary to have read the first two books before you read this one, but if you have it’s also fun to catch up with Mariah & Dixie and their significant others, plus a bonus romance for Luke!)

To see Lydia a bit lost as this story begins, still battling heartache and loneliness, from the traumas she has experienced in the last six years, made me want to wrap her up in a big hug. But it also made me root for her even more as we watch her healing progress in leaps and bounds, the new setting & new faces a balm of relief to Lydia’s soul and an easing of the shame she’d felt shadowed by back home. I so appreciated that the author has Lydia volunteer at a women’s shelter and a pregnancy center while at Pinecraft – and the reason of gratitude behind Lydia’s decision to do so. A women’s shelter setting is not something we see often enough in fiction and I hope it inspires other readers to find ways to help women who just need a break – and a friend – like it did me.

Bottom Line: In some ways, it feels as though this whole series, not just Pockets of Peace, has been Lydia’s story. Because even though she’s been in the background for Mariah and Dixie’s respective stories, we got to know her enough to become invested in her own journey. And, in Pockets of Peace, watching Smith craft something so beautiful for Lydia (and Wesley) out of something so tragic is the perfect way to close out this series.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely book! Such a beautiful conclusion to the series.
Forgiveness and believing in Gods love for everyone.
If you are looking for a sweet Amish series, you may want to think about adding The Pocket Quilt series to your tbr list!
May thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story. The author does a good job of drawing you into the story line. This is part of a series and I hadn't read the previous two books but I didn't feel I was missing anything; it's a good read on its' own.
I will say that if you're a fan of "traditional" Amish authors, this may not be your story. But there were themes of strong friendships in here, and sticking together through life's circumstances. Lydia has learned from some mistakes she has made. And the quilt in the story line (not giving details so I don't give the story away) is a work of restoration of the heart, for sure! All in all, a good book!
I was given an e-copy of this book but wasn't required to leave a review.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful addition to The Pocket Quilt series. It can be read as a standalone novel (though I'd suggest checking out the two prior books!).

Lydia and Wesley are realistic and relatable characters, and it's easy to root for them. Adoption plays a key role in this story. I loved the quilt, along with the letters, Lydia crafted for her son. Very touching scenes, indeed. I also liked the addition of Lydia's volunteer work at a women's shelter, as that's not something I see in many stories. Overall, this is a charming, sweet romance. The author's writing is smooth and engaging, and the detailing quickly pulls the reader in.

If you're a fan of Amish fiction or sweet romances, you'll want to add this to your TBR pile! It's a great choice for fans of Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, Beverly Lewis, and Shelley Shepard Gray.

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

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet, well-written story touched my heart. The main character, Lydia, had suffered trauma in the past and it’s been difficult for her to find forgiveness and acceptance in her Amish community. Treated somewhat unfairly by her bishop, Lydia’s decision to move to the Amish community in Pinecraft, Florida, is her attempt to have a second chance at finding peace and acceptance in life. She also wants to see if it’s possible that her long-distance relationship with Wesley might develop into something deeper if they are living in the same community. When Lydia has an unexpected opportunity to get to know her young son that she gave up for adoption, it becomes a true test of the love that’s beginning to grow between she and Wesley.

This is a wonderful story that has themes of forgiveness, both forgiving yourself for past mistakes and forgiving others who have wronged you.
I also appreciated the reminder of our needing to give others grace in difficult situations in the same way that we ourselves have received grace from God.

Although this book is part of a series, it’s easy to read it as a stand-alone story. This whole series has been great, and I highly recommend any of the books by this author.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a special conclusion for this series! I enjoyed being reunited with characters from the previous books and returning once again to Birdie's bed and breakfast in Pinecraft. This special lady has been such a blessing in all three stories, and she's especially helpful to Lydia. The subject of abuse and unwed pregnancy is handled in a tasteful, sensitive manner and the author shows the wonderful service that is offered by women's shelters and planned pregnancy centers. Lydia's decision to volunteer helps in her own healing process and also shines the spotlight on the constant need for volunteers.

I wasn't familiar with pocket quilts before I read Smith's books and I especially appreciate the letters that are placed in the pocket quilt that Lydia is making for a special person. In one letter she writes "Always remember: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Pockets of Peace is a memorable story of hope and forgiveness, and it's a joy to see Lydia's journey to peace and acceptance. I recommend this book to all who enjoy Amish romance and Christian fiction.

I voluntarily accepted a digital copy from the author. There was no expectation of a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, and once I started reading, I had to read to the end.
While the book starts with such heartbreak, and an Amish Community that shuns her, Lydia Byler, there are also people that are there for this hurting young woman.
I loved that previous characters, that you already cared for reappear in this story. Aunt Birdie for one open her arms and home and takes in Lydia, and she lives in Pinecraft Florida, and that is where Wesley lives!
Then there is the pocket quilt Lydia makes, and we get to read the letters that she writes and places in the quilts pockets, and a precious object she places in one pocket.
There are secrets that Lydia needs to share with Wesley, but will she? As these two grow closer, you wonder will they be able to succeed in having a permanent relationship, or will secrets keep them apart?
What a great conclusion to a wonderful series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Julie Zimmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

i have really been enjoying this series by new writer Laurie Stroup Smith- especially as her books are placed in one of my favorite areas of Florida- Sarasota. It's always a pleasure to read stories that take places in settings familiar to the reader. In Pockets of Peace, I was touched by Lydia's internal struggles as she strived to make a new life for herself in Pinecraft, and to rekindle her relationship with Wesley while still holding her secret of having given her child up for adoption. Pockets of Peace deals a lot with forgiveness, which is a central part of the Amish belief system. It was heartwarming to read of both Lydia's and Wesley's struggles with forgiveness, and to read how Lydia deals with the angst of missing the child she gave up. I highly recommend this beautiful novel. And I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pockets of Peace by Laurie Stroup Smith is Book 3 in the Pocket Quilt Series
You could read each book in this series as a stand alone however I would suggest reading them as a set as you will gain so much from the back story to carry over to each book.
This story (Pockets of Peace) is a heartbreaking and yet loving & healing story of Lydia Byler and how she navigates her life’s choices. How she learns to except God’s love and in turn pay that love forward to heal her past and move forward to a further she has Envisioned in her dreams. I have really enjoyed not only this book but the entire series and wish it was not the end of the series as I could see it continuing.
I suggest you pull out your favorite quilt and a cup of coffee/tea and read this wonderful book and or series.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laurie Stroup Smith’s newest Pocket story might be the best in the series. Smith did a wonderful job of character development as well as describing places. I’d love to go visit Pinecraft!

This is definitely not the typical Amish story as we read about unexpected pregnancy and being shunned. (Please be aware that rape is alluded to. However it’s not written about in any graphic way; Smith is very careful.) A story of love, acceptance, and forgiveness. I love the restoration that takes place and highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[C Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Vinspire Publishing for allowing me to read Pockets of Peace by Laurie Stroup Smith.

Absolutely lovely story told in a wonderful way. Once you start, you do not want to put it down. I found myself cheering for Lydia Byler and Wesley Hochstetler to get together.

Due to an unexpected pregnancy 5 years earlier, Lydia decided to relocate in Pinecraft. Wesley was sure this was a sign from God that finally, they sew to be together. He is unaware of the pregnancy and the adoption that followed. Will this secret harm their happily ever after?

You must read this 5-star addiction to this series. I was not required to give a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author to me and I really enjoyed her writing!



This was a sweet story as Lydia moves to Pinecraft to help the owner of a bed and breakfast recover from an injury. Of course, Lydia has a past but she is reacquainted with her friend Wesley and the reader is left to wonder whether he can continue the relationship despite the past secrets.



I enjoyed that she made a quilt for Theo and included letters and scripture verses in the pockets.



Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such an enjoyable story by Laurie Stroup Smith. It definitely held my attention as I anxiously waited to see what would happen next. The story deals with Lydia Byler and the decisions and mistakes she made and had to deal with. I had never heard of a pocket quilt before starting this series. I like this idea because I think it would make a comforting gift for someone who needs comforting a simple pick me up burst of encouragement.

All words and opinions are my own and I was given this complimentary book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review.

[Kailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a nice addition to The Pocket Quilt series! The cover immediately caught my eye. Its definitely my favorite cover in the series! The story was really good. It was different than most of the Amish books that I have read so far. I would recommend this one for fans of Amish fiction.


I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful conclusion to a sweet but serious series. Every book has made me look deep inside myself but this one the most.

Lydia overcame so much. I’m not sure I could have been as trusting and believed all would work out as God intended.

Each book can be read as a standalone. All are clean reads but handle some adult matters.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed above are entirely my own.

[Laura Brandenburg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This final book in the three-book series is sure to satisfy Amish fiction book lovers! It can be read as a standalone, but I loved the inclusion of all the couples from Books One and Two. Lydia has waited a long time for her happy ending, and I loved watching her story unfold.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurie Smith is an excellent writer. Lydia has lived through a terrible ordeal in her life but will Wesley be able to overcome the secret she’s kept from him to move forward with their lives. A lovely story of love, forgiveness, understanding and a quilt made with love for a special little boy.