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My Heart Remembers #2
In Every Heartbeat
As three friends who grew up in the same orphanage head off to college together, they each harbor a cherished dream. Libby wishes to become a famous journalist, Pete plans to study to become a minister, and Bennett wants to join a fraternity and have as much fun as possible. But as tensions rise around the world on the brink of World War I, the friends' differing aspirations and opinions begin to divide them, as well. And when Libby makes a shocking discovery about Pete's family, will it drive a final wedge between the friends or bond them in ways they never anticipated?
346 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
47 people are currently reading
908 people want to read
About the author
Kim Vogel Sawyer
80 books1,210 followersAward-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Kim's titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different languages. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim's passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn't writing, you'll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or--as time allows--participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim's writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
March 18, 2018
Well, I didn't like this quite as well as the first book because much of it is in college and focuses on which fraternities/sororities each character wants to get into...Greek life is just SO not my thing, and I didn't enjoy reading those parts. Also I never quite understood why Libby didn't just come out and ask to be adopted instead of stewing and longing to herself. (That statement makes more sense in the context of the story.)
But once we got to the part with the Leidig family, I couldn't put it down! And I loved the very clear Christian message. So while it isn't another new favorite, it's definitely a solid five stars.
Now I need to read a story about Bennett's next chapter in life!
But once we got to the part with the Leidig family, I couldn't put it down! And I loved the very clear Christian message. So while it isn't another new favorite, it's definitely a solid five stars.
Now I need to read a story about Bennett's next chapter in life!
May 4, 2020
Three and a half stars.
In Every Heartbeat tells the story of Libby and Bennett who are orphans and Petey who was abandoned by his parents at a young age. These three have had been firm friends since their time in the Orphanage and Children’s home. Libby always longed to be adopted by Maelle. No-one could have been more like a mother to her yet reasons unknown to Libby, it never happened. Petey, who has a wooden leg after an accident with a trolley car has no reason to ever want to see the parents who sent him as a young child out into the world. Petey wants to be a minister. But resentment towards his parents eats away at him. Libby wants to be a journalist. With the world on the brink of World War 1, Bennett would join up in a heartbeat if war happens. Meanwhile all three are in college, all on scholarships. Despite their different outlooks they have a strong friendship that nothing can break. Or can it?
I rarely have books sitting in my bookcase that have not been read. But I found this one I‘d grabbed one day from the donations grab and go area of our library before it closed down. I had forgotten it was on the shelf, until in desperation I was looking for something to read. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy it as much as I did. It helped that I liked the main characters Libby and Petey. I struggled a bit with Bennett. Some of the other characters like Maelle and her husband Jackson, and Aaron and Isabelle who have a great influence on the young people in this story were well drawn too. Of course there are others who are far from pleasant with bullying and egotistical attitudes.
Although it covers some hard subjects like abuse, I found this an easy read and one that ultimately is tinged with hope and positive attitudes. One quote really struck me. ‘She’d been too busy trying to make God fit her idea of what He should be.’ Seems to me that line sums up a number of people’s attitude toward God.
Yes, this book is very obviously written from a Christian perspective but I thought it all come across naturally and in keeping with the characters rather than in a tacked on preachy way, as sometimes happens. Although this is book two as I found out later, it works fine as a stand-alone. A sweet, gentle story despite some of the sub plots and their themes, I enjoyed this one.
In Every Heartbeat tells the story of Libby and Bennett who are orphans and Petey who was abandoned by his parents at a young age. These three have had been firm friends since their time in the Orphanage and Children’s home. Libby always longed to be adopted by Maelle. No-one could have been more like a mother to her yet reasons unknown to Libby, it never happened. Petey, who has a wooden leg after an accident with a trolley car has no reason to ever want to see the parents who sent him as a young child out into the world. Petey wants to be a minister. But resentment towards his parents eats away at him. Libby wants to be a journalist. With the world on the brink of World War 1, Bennett would join up in a heartbeat if war happens. Meanwhile all three are in college, all on scholarships. Despite their different outlooks they have a strong friendship that nothing can break. Or can it?
I rarely have books sitting in my bookcase that have not been read. But I found this one I‘d grabbed one day from the donations grab and go area of our library before it closed down. I had forgotten it was on the shelf, until in desperation I was looking for something to read. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy it as much as I did. It helped that I liked the main characters Libby and Petey. I struggled a bit with Bennett. Some of the other characters like Maelle and her husband Jackson, and Aaron and Isabelle who have a great influence on the young people in this story were well drawn too. Of course there are others who are far from pleasant with bullying and egotistical attitudes.
Although it covers some hard subjects like abuse, I found this an easy read and one that ultimately is tinged with hope and positive attitudes. One quote really struck me. ‘She’d been too busy trying to make God fit her idea of what He should be.’ Seems to me that line sums up a number of people’s attitude toward God.
Yes, this book is very obviously written from a Christian perspective but I thought it all come across naturally and in keeping with the characters rather than in a tacked on preachy way, as sometimes happens. Although this is book two as I found out later, it works fine as a stand-alone. A sweet, gentle story despite some of the sub plots and their themes, I enjoyed this one.
March 14, 2018
This book is the sequel to My Heart Remembers and features three of the original orphans in Isabelle and Aaron's orphanage: Libby, Petey, and Bennett. They are now old enough that the three have all headed off to college. This was a sweet, tender story as Libby finds her way back to God, Petey reconnects with his family, and Bennett still struggles to find his place in the world. With twists and turns, a beautiful love story, trials of faith, hardships, and misunderstandings all set on a college campus once again Sawyer has penned a wonderful historical read. I would love to see one more book in the series featuring Bennett.
Definitely recommended for readers of historical fiction.
Definitely recommended for readers of historical fiction.
August 12, 2011
There are things I liked in this book but ultimately, it seemed to go the way of all Christian fiction. I'm not even entirely certain exactly what frustrates me so much about Christian fiction. There are specific things I can point to in this book like Libby's constant unapologetic scorn of her roommate who, while clearly not perfect, doesn't get credited by Libby for her clear good intentions, or the repeated certainty to know God's specific will and calling and thus not worry about circumstances, when in reality God's will and calling for a person are often revealed by circumstances as opposed to circumstances being ignored because of an individual's notions of what God's will is-- also I have a very low tolerance of cheesiness. This one wasn't the cheesiest book, but it had its fair share.
Maybe what irks me most is how in Christian fic, characters pray and then everything magically works out. Sometimes this happens, but often it just isn't realistic. I guess what grates on me is the behind the scenes notion that God's ultimate goal for peoples' present lives is to negate misery. I like happy endings as much as the next person, but I think I agree with C.S. Lewis when he says God doesn't necessarily want us to be happy, but rather to be lovable, with pain and suffering often used to make us lovable.
2.5
Maybe what irks me most is how in Christian fic, characters pray and then everything magically works out. Sometimes this happens, but often it just isn't realistic. I guess what grates on me is the behind the scenes notion that God's ultimate goal for peoples' present lives is to negate misery. I like happy endings as much as the next person, but I think I agree with C.S. Lewis when he says God doesn't necessarily want us to be happy, but rather to be lovable, with pain and suffering often used to make us lovable.
2.5
December 11, 2017
I didn’t realize that “My Heart Remembers” had a sequel (proves my lack of research cause I so don’t like spoilers!), so when I recognized characters, I was happy!
This was such a good book!! It has the usual Sawyer flavor with colorful, believable characters and a strong, Christian message.
It’s amazing to me how Sawyer can take an almost-cliched idea and turn it into a believable masterpiece of impacting fiction.
Libby’s journey was beautiful—her feeling of unacceptance, her journey as a writer... all of this was lovely! I may or may not have released a happy clap at the turning point of her life (one of my sisters asked, “What just happened?!”). It was very happily done.
Bennet was also a well-thought-out character. Because I like realism, I really liked his whole story and struggles, and how it ended.
Petey was truly amazing. He was so real and so not perfect, even though he was going to be a minister. I was a little hesitant how things would turn out with him confronting his parents, but wow! Just... yeah, you need to read that part. I really, really liked Petey’s story on so many levels!
As mentioned, the spiritual content was solid. It was not in-your-face preachy, but very much there. The story would be incomplete without it.
There was a little bit of emotional romance. Some kissing. Some characters who were kind of playing at the dating thing (which was not exactly portrayed in a positive light). I didn’t feel that it was over the top, though.
Another happy sigh. I liked this book!
This was such a good book!! It has the usual Sawyer flavor with colorful, believable characters and a strong, Christian message.
It’s amazing to me how Sawyer can take an almost-cliched idea and turn it into a believable masterpiece of impacting fiction.
Libby’s journey was beautiful—her feeling of unacceptance, her journey as a writer... all of this was lovely! I may or may not have released a happy clap at the turning point of her life (one of my sisters asked, “What just happened?!”). It was very happily done.
Bennet was also a well-thought-out character. Because I like realism, I really liked his whole story and struggles, and how it ended.
Petey was truly amazing. He was so real and so not perfect, even though he was going to be a minister. I was a little hesitant how things would turn out with him confronting his parents, but wow! Just... yeah, you need to read that part. I really, really liked Petey’s story on so many levels!
As mentioned, the spiritual content was solid. It was not in-your-face preachy, but very much there. The story would be incomplete without it.
There was a little bit of emotional romance. Some kissing. Some characters who were kind of playing at the dating thing (which was not exactly portrayed in a positive light). I didn’t feel that it was over the top, though.
Another happy sigh. I liked this book!
March 1, 2019
I didn’t realize this was a sequel to “My Heart Remembers” until I was partly into the book. But since I never actually read the first book, but just skimmed it, I didn’t really feel like I missed anything. I think this could be read as a stand alone.
While I enjoyed the story, it wasn’t my favorite. The characters were enjoyable for the most part and felt real, but I wasn’t all that interested in life on a college campus in 1915. Libby bugged me by never talking about what she really wanted and dreamed of, Pete bugged me because even if he was studying to be a minister, he seemed to have never read about forgiveness. They did get straightened out, and I wasn’t bothered by those things all the time. It also confused me when it was mentioned that Pete was going to Bible School, but it was the same college and not a Bible college. Things started to pick up about half way through the book and were more interesting.
One thing I did appreciate was the author’s stance on purity in books and the comments in the book about when stories focus on the physical between the guy and the girl is can stir up wrongful passions were so true. Sadly this seems to be creeping into even Christian books these days.
Overall, I did enjoy this book, and will probably read another one by this author.
While I enjoyed the story, it wasn’t my favorite. The characters were enjoyable for the most part and felt real, but I wasn’t all that interested in life on a college campus in 1915. Libby bugged me by never talking about what she really wanted and dreamed of, Pete bugged me because even if he was studying to be a minister, he seemed to have never read about forgiveness. They did get straightened out, and I wasn’t bothered by those things all the time. It also confused me when it was mentioned that Pete was going to Bible School, but it was the same college and not a Bible college. Things started to pick up about half way through the book and were more interesting.
One thing I did appreciate was the author’s stance on purity in books and the comments in the book about when stories focus on the physical between the guy and the girl is can stir up wrongful passions were so true. Sadly this seems to be creeping into even Christian books these days.
Overall, I did enjoy this book, and will probably read another one by this author.
November 19, 2018
Final rating: 3.5 stars
After reading 'My Heart Remembers' and having a fantastic experience reading through all of its charm and character, I was thoroughly excited to begin diving into it's sequel 'In Every Heartbeat'.
For a sequel, I thought this novel was solid with it's setting, characters and the events that transpired from start to finish. I really admired how Kim took a different approach to the story compared to it's predecessor. As the setting is sped up several years into the future, you get small glimpses of Maelle, Matthew and Molly's lives sporadically throughout the story. However, this story predominantly follows Pete, Libby and Bennett through their college careers.
While I grew to like Libby and couldn't find it in me to care for Bennett as a character much as all, Pete really shined in this book. It was enjoyable to see him go from a rambunctious little boy to one who's childhood wounds grew to deeply effect him spiritually, mentally and emotionally. As he pursues becoming a pastor to spread and teach the good news of Jesus Christ, the scars that were left on his heart became something he sought solace for, apart from God. With what becomes a begrudging attempt to heal those wounds, Pete is quickly reminded of Christ's love, mercy, and forgiveness as it shines incredibly bright through our weaknesses, fears and when we must face and stand up to our enemies. His story was surely one of healing and redemption when we least expect it most.
My only nit-picks in this book were the lack of character development for Bennett and Libby's roommate Alice-Marie, since she was included in much of the story. They both kind of began the same and ended the same with no major progression to their personalities or to the way they perceived the world around them. It felt as if at the end they were just tossed aside while Pete and Libby took center stage. It was a bit unsatisfying to not have their stories come to any really good conclusions.
Overall, the college setting isn't normally my cup of tea, but it didn't make the story dis-likable. The moral lessons found within this book are biblical, which further glorifies the truth. Kim Vogel Sawyer's writing is pleasant and lively. Being torn between a rating of 3 and 4, I leave it at a 3.5!
After reading 'My Heart Remembers' and having a fantastic experience reading through all of its charm and character, I was thoroughly excited to begin diving into it's sequel 'In Every Heartbeat'.
For a sequel, I thought this novel was solid with it's setting, characters and the events that transpired from start to finish. I really admired how Kim took a different approach to the story compared to it's predecessor. As the setting is sped up several years into the future, you get small glimpses of Maelle, Matthew and Molly's lives sporadically throughout the story. However, this story predominantly follows Pete, Libby and Bennett through their college careers.
While I grew to like Libby and couldn't find it in me to care for Bennett as a character much as all, Pete really shined in this book. It was enjoyable to see him go from a rambunctious little boy to one who's childhood wounds grew to deeply effect him spiritually, mentally and emotionally. As he pursues becoming a pastor to spread and teach the good news of Jesus Christ, the scars that were left on his heart became something he sought solace for, apart from God. With what becomes a begrudging attempt to heal those wounds, Pete is quickly reminded of Christ's love, mercy, and forgiveness as it shines incredibly bright through our weaknesses, fears and when we must face and stand up to our enemies. His story was surely one of healing and redemption when we least expect it most.
My only nit-picks in this book were the lack of character development for Bennett and Libby's roommate Alice-Marie, since she was included in much of the story. They both kind of began the same and ended the same with no major progression to their personalities or to the way they perceived the world around them. It felt as if at the end they were just tossed aside while Pete and Libby took center stage. It was a bit unsatisfying to not have their stories come to any really good conclusions.
Overall, the college setting isn't normally my cup of tea, but it didn't make the story dis-likable. The moral lessons found within this book are biblical, which further glorifies the truth. Kim Vogel Sawyer's writing is pleasant and lively. Being torn between a rating of 3 and 4, I leave it at a 3.5!
November 22, 2018
Sadly I didn’t connect with this book as much as the first. There were parts in the second half that were gripping that brought it up to 4 stars for me. But I needed something more satisfying in details about how people felt or what truly happened after a display of emotion. Talking things out, and the reader being privy to those conversations would have been a plus for me.
Very clean, great message, and a sweet romance.
Very clean, great message, and a sweet romance.
April 17, 2018
I loved this book. So glad to hear about the lives of the 3 orphans; Petey, Libby and Bennett. I agree with others that I would like to know more about what happened to Bennett. I feel that his story was not completed.
June 2, 2024
Not quite sure how to explain my thoughts about this book. Most of it is very well done. Great story line and plot. Interesting interactions and experiences with the characters.
However, Beginning I’m chapter 32, the story became overbearing with regard to Libby’s conversion to Christianity. I get that those experiences are life changing but in this case it was way over done. So much so that I literally skimmed the rest of the book to the end.
It became too wordy and way over done with the change of heart. I mean, really? Once you’ve accepted Christ into your life, yes, without a doubt it changes you and your behavior. But this story was way too unbelievable. Most people, if not all, need time to transition from their old habits and thinking to the new. That takes time.
It’s unfortunate because the rest of the story was written so well.
Those are my thoughts.
However, Beginning I’m chapter 32, the story became overbearing with regard to Libby’s conversion to Christianity. I get that those experiences are life changing but in this case it was way over done. So much so that I literally skimmed the rest of the book to the end.
It became too wordy and way over done with the change of heart. I mean, really? Once you’ve accepted Christ into your life, yes, without a doubt it changes you and your behavior. But this story was way too unbelievable. Most people, if not all, need time to transition from their old habits and thinking to the new. That takes time.
It’s unfortunate because the rest of the story was written so well.
Those are my thoughts.
August 21, 2024
In the beginning, I did have a hard time getting into the book, but once the plot picked up, I got a little more invested. I liked how the book took the theme of trusting God to be in the midst of things, even when you feel that you can't see Him or feel Him. The characters each went on their personal journey, and I could identify with a few of them. A warning: this book does talk about abuse, but it was not too descriptive in my opinion.
August 11, 2023
3 weeskinderen die hun weg vinden, heel veelzijdig
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2020
3rd time reading it and it's still a gem. <3
October 24, 2020
I love a book that you can get lost in.... you can visualize the story as it happens, cry and celebrate with the characters. This is beautifully written and wonderful read.
September 27, 2022
I enjoyed this sequel which focused on the grown orphan children we have met in My Heart Remembers.
Though this one had more of a young adult feel with the children off to college, there was still depth in the growth and development of the characters.
I enjoyed seeing how each character grew and discover more about themselves and loved Pete’s reconciliation story with his family, which was both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
Though this one had more of a young adult feel with the children off to college, there was still depth in the growth and development of the characters.
I enjoyed seeing how each character grew and discover more about themselves and loved Pete’s reconciliation story with his family, which was both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
December 7, 2010
Kim Vogel Sawyer has written some wonderful stories these past few years, it's easy to see why she's made a name for herself as a top Christian fiction author. With her knack for telling sweet stories with faith and love at the heart I always find her books to be enjoyable reads and recommend them to those who love romance.
Her latest book, In Every Heartbeat takes place in the early part of the 20th century with three very different characters who are coming of age and attending university. While Kim's naturally easy paced style is present and her characters making some tough choices I just could not connect with the characters. Libby Conley, the heroine just seemed immature to me. With jealousy and campus antics it all seemed a bit juvenile and not something I was expecting from three orphans who had to "grow up" fast. However, I will say this, as the story progressed Libby did seem to mature but I was kind of left hanging as to what happened with Bennett.
I was never bored with the story and was very interested in the lives of the Leidig family and hope to see more of them in the future. I would like to see them as adults and see what they did with their lives and what they made of themselves. I love the themes of this story including that love and God are always with us in our hearts.
I received my complimentary review copy from Bethany House in exchange for posting my honest review.*
Her latest book, In Every Heartbeat takes place in the early part of the 20th century with three very different characters who are coming of age and attending university. While Kim's naturally easy paced style is present and her characters making some tough choices I just could not connect with the characters. Libby Conley, the heroine just seemed immature to me. With jealousy and campus antics it all seemed a bit juvenile and not something I was expecting from three orphans who had to "grow up" fast. However, I will say this, as the story progressed Libby did seem to mature but I was kind of left hanging as to what happened with Bennett.
I was never bored with the story and was very interested in the lives of the Leidig family and hope to see more of them in the future. I would like to see them as adults and see what they did with their lives and what they made of themselves. I love the themes of this story including that love and God are always with us in our hearts.
I received my complimentary review copy from Bethany House in exchange for posting my honest review.*
November 3, 2025
I enjoyed the every ending of the book the most. I rated it a 3/5 because I wasn’t captivated it the way I like to be by books. However it was still a good book and I will probably still read it over and over again. Just compared to other books I would give a 5/5, it is a 3/5. Though I do highly recommend reading this book if you like drama, a little mystery, and some romance.
September 1, 2010
If you read and fell in love with the characters and story from My Heart Remembers by Kim Vogel Sawyer, you aren’t going to want to miss her latest extension of that story, IN EVERY HEARTBEAT. Though they do not have to be read in order, it warmed my heart to encounter favorite characters in this book such as Isabelle, Maelle, Matt and Petey. Introducing a few new characters as well that warmed my heart.
When I read Sawyer’s fiction I feel like I have come home. Her cadence of the words, the rhythm of the characters and their human ability to stand up from the page and speak to my heart.
I am continually amazed at the way Sawyer’s characters grow and I feel like I mature with them, without being pushed or preached at. But I also love how in the end they still have growing to do. She doesn’t stilt or rush the process.
This book was a joy to read. I come home when I read her fiction, cozy in the knowledge that I will be entertained, spiritually fed and eager for the next book. This is more than a prairie romance, this is a joy and an art buddled up in one highly recommended novel.
Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review through CFBA. This review is my honest opinion.
When I read Sawyer’s fiction I feel like I have come home. Her cadence of the words, the rhythm of the characters and their human ability to stand up from the page and speak to my heart.
I am continually amazed at the way Sawyer’s characters grow and I feel like I mature with them, without being pushed or preached at. But I also love how in the end they still have growing to do. She doesn’t stilt or rush the process.
This book was a joy to read. I come home when I read her fiction, cozy in the knowledge that I will be entertained, spiritually fed and eager for the next book. This is more than a prairie romance, this is a joy and an art buddled up in one highly recommended novel.
Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review through CFBA. This review is my honest opinion.
August 27, 2010
If, like me, you fell in love with Kim Vogel Sawyer’s highly acclaimed My Heart Remembers, don’t miss In Every Heartbeat. It’s even better. Though billed as the follow-up to My Heart Remembers, it can be enjoyed without having read the first book. (You won’t want to miss that one, though.) Beginning years after Remembers ends, In Every Heartbeat is the story of three childhood friends’ first months at college. If that sounds ordinary, it is far from that. Filled with fascinating details of college life in 1914 and heart wrenching dilemmas, the book is a beautifully told and deeply emotional story of friendship, faith and family. It comes with my highest recommendation.
July 22, 2016
This book is the sequel to a book I read growing up and greatly enjoyed, so I was excited to read it when I discovered it existed.
Sadly, it didn't meet my expectations, although that's not too surprising since I had enjoyed the first book so much, but it's been years since I read it so I most likely have a glorified memory of it.
The romance in this book seemed a little bit too much to me, which is funny because part of the book is actually *about* how romance can be bad when it's centered on the wrong thing.
Overall, this is most likely my least favorite of the few Kim Vogel Sawyer books I've read, but I still enjoyed it.
I'm giving the book 3 out of 5 stars, 5 out of 10.
Sadly, it didn't meet my expectations, although that's not too surprising since I had enjoyed the first book so much, but it's been years since I read it so I most likely have a glorified memory of it.
The romance in this book seemed a little bit too much to me, which is funny because part of the book is actually *about* how romance can be bad when it's centered on the wrong thing.
Overall, this is most likely my least favorite of the few Kim Vogel Sawyer books I've read, but I still enjoyed it.
I'm giving the book 3 out of 5 stars, 5 out of 10.
March 6, 2017
This had quite an involved backstory, and as a result, it was slow to get to the heart of the story. It may have been more beneficial for this story to begin earlier in the characters' lives. That would've also helped me be more emotionally connected to what was going on in the plot. As it was, I flipped through a lot of it until it finally caught my interest.
June 28, 2019
Ugh, Christian lit alert. Second book in a row that I picked up at our local library book sale without realizing everyone would be redeemed by God in the end. There were a few interesting characters that could have been very strong, but in the end it all caved in and everyone found God. Sigh. Duped again.
October 6, 2020
I've read this author before and liked her, but this just didn't work for me at all. I felt like the dialogue was something from a 1950's sitcom, and the characters didn't seem to act their age. Everything just felt contrived. DNF
August 26, 2014
I didn't like this book at all. I thought I would because it is a series but I had a hard time following the characters and staying in the story.
October 7, 2023
Enjoyed this like the first
October 7, 2023
Enjoyed like the first book.
May 19, 2019
I always enjoy Sawyers works -- and this was no excleption. I enjoyed the growth of each of the characters, although I would like to know what happens with Bennet. The growth of Pete and Libby was sweet to see, and I absolutely fell in love with both of them.
I disliked the undercurrent of feminism in the book, but that was part of the culture back then, and it wasn't offensive towards guys. No remarks were made, just discussions about women's lib and not needing men, but being more than capable as a woman.
The romance was sweet, and Libby fell in love how she lived her life: wild and head strong and all-at-once, and it fit.
Pete grew immensely in the story, and I loved him for his interaction with his younger brothers. The wisdom he had for dealing with his family, and the way he changed his mind after he had a speech ready to hurl at them all was a testimony to listening for God's guidance. The forgiveness he was more than willing to offer was beautiful.
The lightheartedness made this the perfect read for right now, while the deep, subtle messages of trusting the Lord, and following His guidance, was remarkablely woven into the fabric of the story. I a, grateful my sister allowed me to borrow this one, and I am definitely looking forward to reading more of this authors works!
I disliked the undercurrent of feminism in the book, but that was part of the culture back then, and it wasn't offensive towards guys. No remarks were made, just discussions about women's lib and not needing men, but being more than capable as a woman.
The romance was sweet, and Libby fell in love how she lived her life: wild and head strong and all-at-once, and it fit.
Pete grew immensely in the story, and I loved him for his interaction with his younger brothers. The wisdom he had for dealing with his family, and the way he changed his mind after he had a speech ready to hurl at them all was a testimony to listening for God's guidance. The forgiveness he was more than willing to offer was beautiful.
The lightheartedness made this the perfect read for right now, while the deep, subtle messages of trusting the Lord, and following His guidance, was remarkablely woven into the fabric of the story. I a, grateful my sister allowed me to borrow this one, and I am definitely looking forward to reading more of this authors works!
August 9, 2019
In Every Heartbeat was a superbly compelling story. I loved the way it wove the stories of the three orphans together and each of their struggles arising from their tumultuous childhood. Each had such a different story and a unique way of reacting to it. Libby was a likeable character who grew so much during the book. I was eager to see her learn and grow. Pete was an odd character at first because the resentment he held toward his birth parents was not something healthy to be harboring, especially for someone looking to become a minister. So his tale of growth and forgiveness brought drama and hope into the book. The look at college life during the time was entertaining and fun. It is a super fast read that pulls you into the story and keeps you drawn in throughout. The romance was heartfelt, full of struggle but also hope. The story with Pete's family at the end added action, tension, and intrigue to the novel. Bennett’s story and the future of Libby’s writing career seemed a little unfinished at the end, but it was definitely a good read overall.
March 4, 2018
4 stars! Kim Vogel Sawyer strikes again. In this tale, three adult orphans who grew up together in the orphanage face life as college students on a scholarship sponsored by the orphanage. They now face the struggle of young adulthood as all have as life and different dreams loosen their ties. Petey feels the call to be a minister and turn his tattered life into a testimony. Libby dreams of her name in lights as a famous journalist making a difference in the world with her words. Bennet wants desperately to fit in, to belong, to be wanted. With a nation on the brink of World War One, their ties of friendship are tested even more as clashing views rise to the surface threatening to divide them. Will their friendship endure the test of the times? or have they outgrown each other?
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October 21, 2023
After really enjoying the first book, I must admit to being a bit disappointed with this one. I found the first part not quite to my taste tbh as it was set mostly in the College. I also thought that Libby should have spoken to Maelle about her feelings about not being adopted.
Once we hit the part about Pete's family, I really started investing in this story. That's the point that I really couldn't put the book down. So I felt it was a book of 2 halves really. I'm glad I read this, but just didn't get the same vibe for me as the first one. I did appreciate the Christian Aspect that was right throughout the book though. I Will definitely look out for more of this Author's books. I read this through KU.
Once we hit the part about Pete's family, I really started investing in this story. That's the point that I really couldn't put the book down. So I felt it was a book of 2 halves really. I'm glad I read this, but just didn't get the same vibe for me as the first one. I did appreciate the Christian Aspect that was right throughout the book though. I Will definitely look out for more of this Author's books. I read this through KU.
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