Her Heart's Desire

A Season in Pinecraft #1

by Shelley Shepard Gray

Mary Margaret Miller needs an escape from her small Amish community. She boards a bus, all alone, for a vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Meeting Betsy and Lilly on the way, she's amazed to find two kindred spirits. They become fast friends and determine to have the best two weeks of their lives. For Mary, it starts when she meets Jayson Raber. The handsome and charming carpenter is taken by Mary from the get-go, but he has responsibilities back home in Kentucky--including a girl he's supposed to marry.

When someone from Mary's past shows up in Pinecraft, it seems like her perfect vacation is ruined. But that's nothing compared to what's coming when she realizes what Jayson has been hiding.

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

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

Librarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).

Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.

Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.

Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.


t

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short Amish fiction romance story that I got wrapped up in from the beginning. I thought the story was entertaining and I always enjoy a Amish book when it takes place in Pinecraft Florida. The book focuses on forgiveness and being open to Gods will for your life. The story had a pleasant happily ever after ending .

Three plain girls on a Trail bus trip to Pinecraft Florida meet when bad weather forces the bus to stop overnight at a motel in Georgia. They are thrown together when they have to share a room at the motel and they enjoy each other’s company. They wind up staying at the same B&B in Pinecraft and become best friends. A fourth girl joins the other three at the B&B but one of the three girls has every reason not to like the newcomer. Romance enters the story when two of the girls meet two handsome Amish men . As time passes and the end of their vacation draws near no one wants to go back home to snowy Ohio . What will happen to the two dating couples? Will the time away and their break from every day Amish life be enough for them when they return home to their regular routines and the stress and tension they had felt before they left for a get away vacation?

I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction Romance and fans of the Author. Her Heart’s Desire is the first book in Shelley Shepard Gray’s new series, A Season in Pinecraft. This book is scheduled to be released on 1/3/23.

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

#HerHeartsDesire #NetGalley

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary Margaret is escaping by bus to Pinecraft, Florida. On the way, she meets two other Amish girls, Betsy & Lilly, and a treasured friendship is formed. Mary meets Jayson who shouldn’t like her but does–ahhhh, there’s a girl in his home 'g’may'. And then…someone from Mary’s past arrives in Pinecraft…Is the perfect vacation completely ruined?

My review…
A story about overcoming … Being verbally bullied and teased again and again. Being put down. Being left out. Mary Margaret, Betsy, and Lilly all have reasons to “escape” to a new place. If you have ever been bullied or teased, you will understand & empathize with why these three young women feel free for the first time in their lives.

Jayson has sorta agreed that he would marry a girl in his home community of Kentucky for a guaranteed income so that he can care for his ill sister. He has been to Pinecraft before and has one good friend there.

Richness of characters … Multiple characters fill out this story which centers around Mary Margaret and Jayson. You will love the owner of the inn where the girls stay. She exudes the love of God in her words and actions. You’ll like Jayson’s friend too.

Set in Pinecraft, Florida which is a real Amish community. Many Amish vacation there and I’d like to visit it someday. They have the kind of bikes I can ride at my age — large three-wheel ones! Most books touch on Pinecraft but “Her Heart’s Desire” is set there which made the book even more interesting.

I recommend “Her Heart’s Desire” although the pacing seemed slo-o-w at times. And a phrase that read okay the first time. Awkward the second time and more so every time after that kept the rating at 4 stars.

I received a complimentary DRC (digital review copy) of “Her Hearts Desire” via NetGalley from the publisher, Revell. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 4 stars
#HerHeartsDesire #NetGalley #ShelleyShepardGray

Special Goodreads note: The last 3% is the first of the next book in the series.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

HER HEART’S DESIRE is the first book in A Season in Pinecraft series by Shelley Shepard Gray. Its the story of three Amish women who meet on the bus and it is sure to pull on the reader’s heart strings. It will give you all the feels, let me tell you. The three women all have felt like outsiders in their communities and make a pact based on this. My emotions were all over the place and I was giggling one minute and tearing up, the next. I really liked the setting of the small town of Pinecraft and its history. I really got to know the people of this beautiful, small Florida town and I also know I will fall more in love with all of these characters as I still have the third book to read!

HER HEART’S DESIRE is a wonderful story of family and new friends that will worm their way into your heart. Mary Margaret had been bullied most of her childhood by three girls who never left her alone. She is on vacation in Pinecraft, Florida and when she finds out that one of those girls is going to be staying in the same B and B that she is, she is beside herself! To say Mary Margaret is unhappy is a huge understatement! Hang on to your seats! The twists and turns will keep you flipping the pages long into the night. She also has a big secret that she doesn’t share with just anyone!

HER HEART’S DESIRE is a quick read that you can easily read in one sitting and love every minute of it. It is one heck of a crazy emotional roller coaster ride. I have never met a Shelley Shepard Gray book that I didn’t love and once I started reading I knew I was going on one heck of an emotional journey! All of the characters have their flaws and that just makes the reader love them even more. Whatever you are reading, put it down, and run and get this book! If you’ve never read a Shelley Shepard Gray novel (and you know who you are) this would be a perfect one to hook you!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always look forward to the author's newest releases coming out. This one is the start to a new series, and we are once again back in Pinecraft, which I would love to visit someday. It sounds so peaceful.
This is A Season in Pinecraft, #1.
The author is such a master storyteller. no matter the genre she writes, I especially enjoy her Amish stories. Her stories are so compelling with such a nice faith message in them. I always feel so much better after reading her books, such a positive boost they give me.
I was moved by the characters, how they examined who they were and worked on improving their character.
I am looking forward to the next delightful book in this series.

Pub Date 03 Jan 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book of a new series is always so exciting. Gray is the queen of Amish fiction and Her Hearts Desire proves that. in my opinion this one is a must read.
4 stars and I recommend this one. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author and when I saw she had a new series out, I was really excited. However, I prefer Amish books where they are Amish, surrounded by family, etc., not on vacation and out of their ordinary lives. However, I loved this book! I loved the characters, I loved how she wrote them, and while I thought Mary Margaret was a little overdramatic at the beginning and a little less understanding of Jayson, it was written so well because that is how Mary Margaret would have reacted not having had any experience dating or even with friendships. The author nailed it!

I think my favorite person in the whole book was the Nancy. She may have had a “small” role in the pages but her presence was huge when she was written on the page. I also really loved Michael. I thought he was a player at first, but oh, my heart went out to him when I found out his story. And Jayson? What a weight on his shoulders. I loved how his friends rallied around him and how he was reminded he had choices. I think I needed to hear that when I was reading the book myself.

I was given this book as a complimentary copy but was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine. I read the sneak chapter for Book 2 in the back of the book and I. Cannot. Wait. for it to come out! This may end up being one of my favorite series of this author after all!

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Heart’s Desire is a heartwarming introduction to a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray. In this story, there are two couples who end up finding their happily ever afters, yet this tale is more than simply their love stories. The four young women who end up vacationing in Pinecraft learn a lot about themselves, the value of true friendships, forgiveness, trusting in God, and taking steps toward changing their lives for the better.

I liked the way the relationships developed between the two sets of characters. The romances were sweet and developed with a gentle innocence between the young men and women. Yet, it was not simply smooth sailing, especially for Mary and Jayson, as a fairly big roadblock to their happiness came to light. I look forward to seeing these characters again in future stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a refreshing read, I enjoyed it from beginning to end! I also love that this is part of a series, and now I can't wait for the next book in this series, and updates on the character's I now care about!

We have four young women going to Florida trying to escape their problems, but life can't go smooth, and some of their problems actually follow them!

Here's to new friendships, experiences, toes in the sand, and some sweet romance. Then it's back to their homes and their old lives, or?

There are some really great surprises, some hard decisions, and some sweet kisses!

I received this through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't read a lot of Amish romance but I thought that I'd give this new book a try. One of my reading goals this year is to read some different genres plus I needed a light easy romance to start the year off after the business of the Christmas season. This was a perfect book for me right now -- it was a light easy read with great characters and sweet romances with happily ever after endings.

Mary Margaret is a wallflower in her Amish community and has been bullied for her entire life. She hopes that a trip to Pinecraft Florida will help her make some decisions about her future. Pinecraft is referred to as the Amish snowbird community in Florida. Over 5,000 Amish and Mennonite visit Pinecraft every winter to enjoy the sun and the sea. On the bus trip, Mary meets Betsy and Lilly, who are also traveling from their Amish homes to Florida by themselves, and they immediately become great friends. Since they are all staying at the same place in Pinecraft, they decide to spend their two weeks together as they spend their first time away from their families. Mary meets Jayson on her first day in Florida and they are quite attracted to each other and though she becomes friends with the carpenter, their relationship can never go any further due to his responsibilities at home. When a girl from Mary's hometown shows up at their bed and breakfast, Mary knows that her fun vacation is over because the newcomer is the person who bullied her relentlessly at home.
Will Mary be able to overcome her past and move into a happier future. When the four young women return home will they fall back into their old lives that made them unhappy or will they take what they learned on their vacations to help make them happier women?

I really enjoyed this sweet romance. It was nice to see Florida and the ocean through the eyes of these very sheltered women. Everything was an adventure for them. There were several romances that happened but they were all very innocent with a kiss being the ultimate for each couple. The characters all had flaws and had to learn to depend on their religion and their friends to get them through the tough times. I'm looking forward to the next book in the trilogy - A Season in Pinecraft that publishes in June, 2023.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a quick and sweet romance with the Amish characters visiting a beach in Pinecraft, Florida. I was surprised by the setting and the boldness of the main character to leave her protected Amish community and travel by bus to Florida, but the surprise added to the story as Mary Margaret was joined by other like-minded Amish young women seeking respite from their lives and the troubles that they faced there. Mary finds her true desires in Florida and even has to face forgiving a former enemy who unexpectedly shows up there. I loved the themes of relationships, honesty and forgiveness. I especially enjoyed seeing how all of the conflict worked itself out in just the right way for the lovable characters. I was invested in the story and wanted everyone to get a happy ending, but the ending was not without some real twists along the way. My favorite characters were Jayson who is a responsible young man who feels the weight of taking care of his diabetic sister Joy and Michael, a young orphan who works hard to escape from his cruel aunt and uncle who make him feel worthless. My sympathy lay with these two young men who were courageous and determined as well as dedicated to doing the right thing regardless of the cost to themselves. This is a quick read that can easily be read in a few hours and thoroughly enjoyed!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Reads Blogger Program via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Margaret is seeking an escape. With the money she has made from her greeting card-making business and a little bit of money her parents give her, she goes to Pinecraft, Florida, for a vacation. On the bus ride there, she meets Lilly and Betsy, two other Amish girls also on vacation. Once she gets to Pinecraft, she finds out that her arch-nemesis from grade school on is coming to Pinecraft as well, and is staying at the same Bed and Breakfast. Mary Margaret has had to overcome years of bullying at Esther's hands and is not exactly excited to see that she will be staying in the same place.

Shelley Shepard Gray has written a book about forgiving the hard things, the deepest hurts, and the betrayals people inflict on one another. This isn't an easy book to read, and it differs from most Amish fiction in that it isn't over-the-top syrupy sweet. Those are things I really liked about it. The characters are flawed which make them all the more believable and relatable. The setting of Pinecraft is one I've read about with other authors too and seems as familiar as being home, so understanding the surroundings is very easy to do.

Both Mary and Esther meet young men whose eyes they catch, so there is a bit of romance for those die-hards who require it. What Shelley has done well is show that even Amish have their difficulties and flaws. One of the most compelling quotes Shelley has included in this book is by Esther, when she asks when it became okay to be mean on purpose instead of gently teasing.

Five Stars, two thumbs up, and an ice cream cone by the ocean.

Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.

Scripture Connection
"Hatred stirs old quarrels,
but love overlooks insults."
Prov. 10:12

Spiritual Themes
Spiritual themes are lightly infused throughout, with emphasis on forgiveness and trusting God. In terms of the forgiveness plotline, I liked that the author chose such a relatable scenario to showcase God’s work in empowering a person to forgive someone who had wronged her. This is the sort of thing that most of us would have to forgive at some point, although perhaps to a different extent. The book also makes it clear that it is through God’s empowering that the main character is offering forgiveness, which I appreciated.

I also liked seeing Jason’s commitment to take care of his family, which is an important biblical principle.

What I Liked
Lately, and I’m conjunction with reading this book, I’ve realized how much I enjoy reading about friendship, particularly female friendships. While I like peering in on interactions between girls with a shared history, there was a particular sweetness in watching the developing friendship between Mary Margaret, Lilly, and Betsy. Because each of these young women felt like outsiders in their home communities, they entered the friendship with a shared experience, in spite of their distinct upbringings. And, the girls felt more relatable to me, as a reader, because they hadn’t had a lot of friends. I think this is something most readers can relate to.

I also enjoyed the vacation setting. Nancy is a generous hostess, as well as a great cook, and I liked reading about her willingness to serve, and about those hot breakfasts! Vacation settings are also fun, because characters have the opportunity to relax and do things they don’t ordinarily do. As a reader, I went to the beach and out to dinner with the young ladies, and I also joined them for a night of board games.

There’s a brief, but important discussion about emotional intimacy between male and female characters. I really liked that the author pointed out that people can form a strong attachment with one another, even without physical affection.

Respectful Critique
This was my first time reading a book by Shelley Shepard Gray, although I have been seeing her name for awhile. I enjoyed the experience, although it was a little bit different than I expected, in terms of reading an Amish novel. With the vacation setting, Her Heart’s Desire felt a little bit more like a contemporary read, that is a contemporary read with non-Amish characters. There were occasional reminders that the characters were Amish, but it wasn’t constantly at the front of my mind. However, I think this is a good thing, in that it removes some of the novelty from Amish characters, who are real people from a different culture. To be honest, prior to reading, I hadn’t really thought of Amish people as taking vacations to just relax. I think that’s part of why the book felt more like a contemporary novel. The sweet and light story and writing style reminded me of Melody Carlson.

On the other hand, one of the characteristics I have really come to appreciate, in Amish books, is the tight knit families. In a time when parents are encouraged to sacrifice for their children, only for the children to then grow up and not care for their aging parents, I find Amish fiction so refreshing. Much of the time, these books show relationships between different generations of family members, and these relationships showcase respect and love.

While I can certainly appreciate the realism the author employed in crafting families that were less than perfect and I can see how that informed the children’s actions, I was a bit disappointed with the treatment of family, in the book. This also made the book feel more contemporary, to me, because it seemed to conform a bit more to society’s interpretation of family. I am not speaking so much about the actions of individual characters as I am about the treatment of family, more generally, in the book.

Content Notes
While I don’t have content notes for a specific action/event in the story, I do want to make a note on the treatment of the romance.

One of the last lines in the story, before the epilogue, is about the characters “trusting [their] future.” This felt like a strange point to emphasize in a Christian book, since it elevates the romance, rather than trusting in God. In fairness, I will note that the actual epilogue does close with the point that God has been the One orchestrating everything.

Recommendation Status
Although this book felt different than other Amish books, to me, I did enjoy reading and am curious about what will happen to the characters, next. Depending on reader preference, I would recommend this more to readers of contemporary fiction than those of Amish fiction.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shelley Shepard Gray first introduced me to the popular Amish beach-vacation destination of Pinecraft in her Amish Brides of Pinecraft series, and I’ve been fascinated with it ever since. So I was really happy to find out that her newest series, while unrelated, also takes place in Pinecraft!

Three Amish wallflowers each board the same bus for Florida from different communities, and after being thrust together in unexpected circumstances they discover they have much in common. The trio of Mary Margaret, Betsy, and Lilly become fast friends and since they are all staying at the same B&B they are pretty much inseparable during their stay. I enjoyed meeting each of these three young women who so desperately want to be braver and more confident than they are, and I loved that their new friendships give them the boost they’ve been looking for in both of those areas. Sometimes all it really takes is one person to turn things around for someone else, and in this case all three girls provide that catalyst for each other. Gray writes sweetly memorable romances but she also excels at writing friendships that readers can relate to – and Mary, Betsy & Lilly are prime examples. There’s another young woman that will make it a tentative fourth but there are some layers there that make this relationship not as easy for Mary as her quick friendship with Betsy & Lilly. I thought this made the characters even more relatable, since I readily identified with first Mary herself and then her mixed emotions regarding this newcomer to the story.

Jayson is a handsome young Amish man from Kentucky who is also staying at the B&B, and Mary immediately catches his eye. There’s something about her that draws him in and brings out his flirty side, leaving Mary in turns flustered and intrigued. I enjoyed watching them fall in love, conflict and all, and I was rooting for them to find their happily-ever-after even when it looks unlikely. The sweetness and innocence of their romance brought a smile to my face, and the layers of each character kept me invested in the outcome. I wanted to knock Jayson upside the head a couple of times (haha) but I still genuinely liked him.

Another intriguing character to me is Michael, a nineteen-year-old Amish man who lives in Pinecraft year-round. Raised by his cold and unwelcoming aunt and uncle since the death of his parents, Michael has been saving his tips and salary from the restaurant where he works in hopes of living on his own sooner rather than later. He may only be nineteen but life has aged him, and I felt in some ways that he was even more mature than Jayson. You’ll probably be as surprised as I was by who he falls in love with (and steadily pursues) but I can’t imagine it any other way now.

Bottom Line: Shelley Shepard Gray’s stories are always so refreshing, and Her Heart’s Desire is no exception! The warm writing voice, the engaging characters, and two sweet romances will leave readers light of heart and smiling, too. Pinecraft makes the perfect setting for these characters and their stories, and I loved the friendships that will last beyond the all-too-short vacation. Her Heart’s Desire lays the groundwork for what promises to be another delightful series from this author, and I’m already looking forward to Betty’s story!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thoughts; This is a sweet, unassuming story about three girls who are misfits and one mean girl who find themselves on vacation in Pinecraft at the same time and form an unlikely friendship. There are two possible romances, and promises among the girls to keep in touch and a good faith message. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series to see what happens with the other two girls. If you like Amish romance you will love this new book and want to grab it. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

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

A Clean Romance

What a beautiful story showing how we can overcome just about anything.

If I had a teenager I would definitely be sharing this with her. It shows how others can be cruel but we can overcome how that cruelty makes us feel. We are all stronger than we think.

A bucket list dream of mine is to visit Pinecraft and Siesta Key. It sounds absolutely beautiful every time I read about the place.

If you are in the throes of winter and cold go read this book. You will forget the nasty weather outside.

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and Entertaining

Her Heart's Desire follows Mary Margaret Miller on a much needed vacation to Pinecraft, Florida. On the trip she meets Betsy and Lilly. When they discover how much they have in common, a friendship develops between them. Another friendship forms when Mary and Jayson Rayber meet, and as they spend time together, their friendship blossoms into something more.

I absolutely loved the characters (especially Michael) and their stories. Each one was dealing with situations from their past or present which affected them in different ways. Watching each one maneuver through their friendships, feelings, struggles and circumstances was realistic and refreshing. My heart completely went out to each of them and kept me riveted to the story wanting to see what the outcome for each would be, especially when unexpected challenges got in the way.

Her Heart's Desire is an Amish romance story, but it is so much more. It is about overcoming deep hurts and betrayals, forgiveness, trusting God, and growing and changing into the person God wants you to be. It is a sweet and entertaining read that I greatly enjoyed.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are strictly my own.

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Heart's Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray is such a cute and sweet Amish romance book. I really enjoyed it. A fun fact I learned while reading is there is an Amish community in Pinecraft Florida. Many Amish from the north frequent there to vacation. The story features Mary Margaret, who for a better word for it was bullied by other Amish girls from her community. The hero, Jayson feels he needs to marry a girl from his community that he doesn't love. The two meet at the Inn and sparks fly. I enjoyed not only their love story, but the second love story in the book as well. This is a series and I look forward to the other two.
*I was given a copy of the book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Librarything and Revell picking me to win this FREE ARC COPY in a giveaway on Libraything last year!! This was my first time reading a Contemporary Fiction Book/Series by Shelley so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i throughly enjoyed. It reminded me alot of Wanda E Brunstetter's Half Stitch Quilting Club but without the craft aspect to it.

The Characters were so interesting and enjoyable to read about. Mary Margaret, Jayson Raber and Lilly were my favorites mainly because of the friendships between them as well as learning about their life history.

The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Pinecraft, Florida while reading, especially when the scenery was described.

Overall a Wonderfully Enjoyable Book 1 in this Contemporary Amish Fiction Series!! Can't wait to read Book 2 when it comes out this year!!

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been such an enjoyable book to read. I could feel the excitement as Mary steps on the bus to get out of her comfort zone. She needs this break to regroup and to hopefully find a direction for her life. I loved how the author introduces Betsy and Lillie to the story. Three young women traveling on the same bus going to the same place had to be a God thing. They quickly become friends and I adored the place they were staying at. The adventures they planned sounded exciting and their mutual desire to be friends was good for each of them.

It is hard to say which character I liked the best because they each offer an adventure as they figure out where God is calling them. Mary seems to be the most unsure of her future and tends to hold onto things from the past. At times I thought maybe she was running away so she didn’t have to face her insecurity. I liked the interaction she has with Jayson and how their friendship developed slowly and respectfully. The author illustrates how hard forgiveness can be. I loved reading how Mary and a friend from home run into each other in Pinecraft. I thought it took real courage for Esther to face Mary knowing how hurtful she has been to her. Mary finds it hard to forgive Esther but with God’s guidance we witness how freeing it can be to release bitterness and forgive.

The story is filled with a look at how faith will guide you as you listen to God. He has a plan for each of us. Some of the characters find it hard to wait on God’s direction but when they try to move ahead of Him, they stumble and hurt feelings happen. Jayson is a good example of being afraid to stand up for what he wants. He is so focused on making others happy, he finds that he could miss the opportunity to find love. The author gives us a range of emotions from unhappiness, loneliness, forgiveness and finding peace. I’m excited that this will be a series and can’t wait to follow the characters on their journey as they step out in faith.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What wasn't to enjoy about this wonderful book? I loved the Pinecraft vacation theme and the story of 4 friends sharing and caring for each other. The book talks of forgiveness, trusting that God is leading us in the direction we should follow and making important life decisions.
The storyline tells of second chances and accepting change. I really enjoyed the book and hope to read the next book in the series. The book is about coming to be your true self and moving beyond past mistakes.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher. All thoughts are my own.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great beginning to the new, A Season in Pinecraft series. I throughly enjoyed getting to know Mary and all her new friends as she travels to Pinecraft for a much needed change of scenery. I would love to actually visit there after reading this as the descriptions of the people and places drew me in immediately. I loved that even though the girls see themselves as wallflowers they can see positive things in each other and find acceptance in their friendship. It is refreshing to see how they find God has a good plan for them. It is a story of forgiveness, acceptance, and not settling for less when God gives us good and perfect gifts. A sweet story that leaves you with that feel good experience. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. Quickly add to your must read list for the New Year.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to Pinecraft!!!! I felt like I was transported back to Siesta Key. It’s one of my favorite places to vacation.
Mary Margaret Miller decides to go on vacation by herself to get out of a rut in her hometown. She meets Lily and Betsy, two other wallflowers and quickly befriends them. The girls are living their best life, enjoying everything Pinecraft has to offer. Then Esther, a girl from Mary’s past, shows up at the hotel. Mary has to navigate her town bully and a potential suitor.
I love the relationship with Mary and her friends. Seeing her friend from a “wallflower” to a confident young woman was enjoyable. However, it bothered me how quickly and easily Mary was able to not only forgive Esther but also allow her to join her friend group. Maybe I’m not as nice of a person as Mary.
I’m looking forward to the other books in the series! Many thanks to the author, Revell Publishing and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Susan Costantini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thought provoking, wholesome, fun, moving and all the good things came to mind while I was reading Shelley Shepard Gray’s Her Heart’s Desire. I love when books grab you and keep you interested. Shelley Shepard Gray continually does that for me. I loved the group of Amish Wallflowers. As a wallflower myself, I loved seeing Mary Margaret and her group of friends grow as women and show their individual personalities. Plus reading about Jayson’s background made me understand certain choices that he made. Obviously, it was not only Mary Margaret and her fellow Wallflowers that grew on their trip to Pinecraft, but Jayson as well. I can’t wait for the next book!

Disclaimer: I was given a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to leave a positive review, but only an honest one.

[Kim Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much!! From Beginning to end it was very good! I am happy this is the first book in the series and look forward to reading the next book. Her Hearts Desire includes so much including friendships, romance, heartache, and forgiveness and Faith in God. I do hope to see all of these characters in the next book in this series! Plus I love the location of this series Pinecraft Florida.

[Ernestine Kaye Haggard · Rating 5 out of 5]

#Shelley Shepard Gray
Her Hearts Desire
Season In Pinecraft #1
This book will keep your attention all the way through.This is about four young woman Mary, Lilly,Betsy meat when their bus had to lay over due to a nice storm on their way to Pinecraft,Florida. Who shows up in Pinecraft Ester.To find out what happens to these girls when they got there you need to read the book.Shelley has written another 5 star book

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Escaping her unhappy existence in her Amish community, Mary Margaret is going on vacation to sunny Pinecraft in Florida. For two weeks, she can forget about being teased, or laughed at, or even ignored by her peers at home. She meets two other girls on the bus there, and they strike up a friendship, something Mary has been denied her whole life. Not only that, she meets meets a nice Amish man who seems interested in getting to know her. Life is wonderful, until her hometown nemesis shows up at the B&B where Mary is staying. Her new friends don’t understand why Esther’s presence has upset Mary, and it will take some persuading and patience before they understand. Vacations should be a happy time, but this one will lead the main protagonists on a journey in introspection as they look into their pasts as well as to what they hope for their futures. This story is very well written, exploring the ways people not only hurt others, but how they can atone for their cruelty and mistakes. Forgiveness figures into the story, along with lasting friendships and romance. With strong Christian overtones, this novel is peopled with likable characters placed in an intriguing and entertaining plot. It appears to be the first in a series, as a teaser following the story focuses on another character in the novel, and it promises to be just as delightful as first one.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a pretty quick read. It introduces us to three young Amish women trying to escape their normal routines and hometowns. They are what most would consider wallflowers. While they do not know each other they become fast friends on their way to Pinecraft, Florida. Their similarities bring them closer to each other throughout the trip.

This story was good and being that it is the first in the series it introduced you to a lot of characters. I felt like there were too many storylines going on to truly appreciate each characters and see any growth. I also felt like the storylines, that perhaps had a bit of conflict were quickly resolved leaving you kind of wanting a bit more. There were also some relationships that moved a bit quick but left us hanging without resolving some issues or details that were brought up in the story. For example Michael's storyline I felt like we needed to know a bit more and perhaps that will develop more in the next couple of books.

Overall I thought this was a good story. I felt it read more like a young adult book so I would definitely recommend it for that age bracket.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I read this new book, I was once again reminded of the preconceptions concerning the Amish lifestyle. Are these people, who are so faithful and dedicated to their simple way of life, exempt from hurt and loneliness? Of course not, and this story illustrates it perfectly! Three young Amish women meet on a trip to PInecraft, Florida and it's apparent that they've all experienced feelings of loneliness and separation in their individual communities. They even joke about being wallflowers but deep down they aren't laughing! Is it possible that these three strangers can find true friendship as they enjoy their vacations in Pinecraft?

Author Shelley Shepard Gray invites readers into the thoughts of these three young women as they experience new adventures. Her Heart's Desire focuses primarily on the relationship that develops between Mary Margaret MIller and Jayson Raber. Will their friendship deepen into something more?

This is a touching story of hurts and sorrows that are laced together with faith, forgiveness, and healing. Her Heart's Desire is the first book in the 'A Season in Pinecraft' series and it appears that Betsy and Lilly will each get a chance to end their wallflower status. Fans of clean romance and Amish fiction will surely enjoy this book and series!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews. I am voluntarily sharing my honest review.

[Erin Cataldi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Amish romance was a nice change of pace as it took place on a beach! Most Amish books I read take place in either Ohio or Indiana so it was nice to see Pinecraft Florida take center stage. Mary Margaret Miller needs to get away from Trail, Ohio. She has been teased and bullied her whole life and has no friends. She has saved up for a solo trip to Pinecraft, Florida (an area that caters to Amish families) and she is looking forward to a chance to re-charge and re-invent herself. On the long bus ride down she meets two other Amish wallflowers who are doing the same thing as her. All three have been lonely and looked down on so they immediately latch onto each other and become the best of friends. A few days into their fun Mary learns that one of the girls who bullied her from her hometown is coming to Pinecraft and even staying in the same Inn! There goes her fun and relaxing vacation! Obviously there is a little romance thrown in as well. Lots of fun and I can't wait to read the next books in the series!

[Emily Flynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I immediately felt for Mary Margaret as this story opened. It is the story of a couple of Amish Girls and a couple of Amish boys who are in Pinecraft Florida on Vacation. I loved the pacing of the story as we got to know Mary, Jayson, Esther, and Michael.

There were multiple relationships to be explored and there was a significant portion that was about healing, forgiveness, and growth. These stories were told organically and realistically without the added drama that is sometimes displayed through relationship disappointments.

Not having a lot of knowledge about the Amish community, I felt the explanations were perfect without detracting from the story. I was unaware about the different rules in the different communities and was grateful for the additional knowledge.

I liked the friendships that developed around Mary with Betsy, Lilly and Jayson. I could feel for the girls with their wallflower group. Nancy, the owner of the Inn was the perfect, knowing and seeing mother figure.

Stories about change can be difficult to pace, but the author did a fantastic job with this. While the timelines seemed quick, the addition of the thought processes was perfect.

I received an early copy through the publisher and NetGalley and this is my honest review.