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Heart of the Prairie #1
Waiting for Summer's Return
All alone on the Kansas prairie, Summer Steadman has few options. With her husband and children lost to illness, she has no desire to continue on farther west to where she and her husband planned to build their future. Instead, she seeks employment in a small Mennonite community in order to be near the graves of her family.
Widower Peter Ollenburger, the local gristmill owner, needs someone to teach his young son. When he hears of a "learned woman" in town, he believes she is the answer to his prayers. He soon discovers, however, that helping this outsider may have troublesome consequences.
There is little this father will not do for his son, but as the boy begins to look at Summer as more than a teacher, Peter must make a choice. Does he marry this woman to give his son a new mother, or does he marry only for love?
Will Summer's broken heart ever be able to love again?
Widower Peter Ollenburger, the local gristmill owner, needs someone to teach his young son. When he hears of a "learned woman" in town, he believes she is the answer to his prayers. He soon discovers, however, that helping this outsider may have troublesome consequences.
There is little this father will not do for his son, but as the boy begins to look at Summer as more than a teacher, Peter must make a choice. Does he marry this woman to give his son a new mother, or does he marry only for love?
Will Summer's broken heart ever be able to love again?
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2006
452 people are currently reading
3110 people want to read
About the author
Kim Vogel Sawyer
87 books1,206 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 357 reviews
October 17, 2015
Originally, I DNFed this at about 28%. The plot was slow, depressing, and boring. Summer, the heroine, had just lost all her family and had nobody left, nowhere to go and nothing to do. She has lost all faith and is ready to die and rejoin her beloved departed. While I sympathized with her, I got tired of all the angst and moaning, and complaining and angriness at God. Not to mention all the melancholy reminiscences of her children every five pages.
It was all so sad and led nowhere, so I decided to lay it aside and picked up Paper Roses by Amanda Cabot instead. The many similarities between the two books were striking, but Paper Roses was even worse than Waiting For Summer's Return. Strangely I plowed through and read it all, but after I had finished I decided I may as well go back to this one, since it was actually better. And I loved it! The second half of the book was so good! Once Summer started to unstarch and unfreeze, she became a really likeable heroine, and her growing relationship with Peter was one of the sweetest things I'd ever read about.
Peter Ollenberger, widowed and father of young Thomas, decides to take Summer under his wing when he finds out that she lost everything. In exchange for a roof and food, she'll tutor Peter's son, who was injured and can't attend school. Even though Thomas' grandmother also lives with them, it wouldn't be seemly for Summer to live in the house, so she gets to sleep in what they referred to as the shariah, which is a sort of tiny outdoor building about as big as a closet.
So naturally, Peter and Summer fall in love, Thomas is all happy to have a new mother, they all live happily-ever-after and la-di-dah-di-dah-di-dah. ;)
Right, so the story is predictable, but the romance is so unlike any other and the overall tone of the book is so different from what I've read, that is was a really pleasant experience nonetheless, and anyways, the fun with romance novels is not usually to figure out who ends up with whom, but how it'll all come about. Peter Ollenberger is a one-of-a-kind hero. I never met another one like him, ever, in all the romance I've ever read. He's not "swoony" and I love him to death, which is saying something indeed. Peter is like a big teddy bear. Seriously. He's tall, large, loves to eat, has a big beard, big clumsy hands, he's very strong, considers himself unintelligent (because he hasn't much education), but he is the sweetest, gentlest, most honorable hero ever. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and his faith in God was incredibly inspiring. He liked Summer from the first, but he respects the fact that she needs a lot of space, and gives her the time she needs to integrate herself in his family, and in time, to welcome his affections.
Honestly, it was the sweetest, most heart-warming courtship ever, and despite the rough beginning, I loved this book.
It's soothing and peaceful, and incredibly beautiful in its own quiet way. I strongly recommend it, it's different and lovely and a wonderful summer read.
It was all so sad and led nowhere, so I decided to lay it aside and picked up Paper Roses by Amanda Cabot instead. The many similarities between the two books were striking, but Paper Roses was even worse than Waiting For Summer's Return. Strangely I plowed through and read it all, but after I had finished I decided I may as well go back to this one, since it was actually better. And I loved it! The second half of the book was so good! Once Summer started to unstarch and unfreeze, she became a really likeable heroine, and her growing relationship with Peter was one of the sweetest things I'd ever read about.
Peter Ollenberger, widowed and father of young Thomas, decides to take Summer under his wing when he finds out that she lost everything. In exchange for a roof and food, she'll tutor Peter's son, who was injured and can't attend school. Even though Thomas' grandmother also lives with them, it wouldn't be seemly for Summer to live in the house, so she gets to sleep in what they referred to as the shariah, which is a sort of tiny outdoor building about as big as a closet.
So naturally, Peter and Summer fall in love, Thomas is all happy to have a new mother, they all live happily-ever-after and la-di-dah-di-dah-di-dah. ;)
Right, so the story is predictable, but the romance is so unlike any other and the overall tone of the book is so different from what I've read, that is was a really pleasant experience nonetheless, and anyways, the fun with romance novels is not usually to figure out who ends up with whom, but how it'll all come about. Peter Ollenberger is a one-of-a-kind hero. I never met another one like him, ever, in all the romance I've ever read. He's not "swoony" and I love him to death, which is saying something indeed. Peter is like a big teddy bear. Seriously. He's tall, large, loves to eat, has a big beard, big clumsy hands, he's very strong, considers himself unintelligent (because he hasn't much education), but he is the sweetest, gentlest, most honorable hero ever. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and his faith in God was incredibly inspiring. He liked Summer from the first, but he respects the fact that she needs a lot of space, and gives her the time she needs to integrate herself in his family, and in time, to welcome his affections.
Honestly, it was the sweetest, most heart-warming courtship ever, and despite the rough beginning, I loved this book.
It's soothing and peaceful, and incredibly beautiful in its own quiet way. I strongly recommend it, it's different and lovely and a wonderful summer read.
January 26, 2019
I'm a happy, weepy mess right now, y'all. This sweet story about overcoming grief and the loss of one's children was, by turns, excruciating, heartfelt, compassionate, and hope-filled. I particularly enjoyed the faith embroidered into the very fabric of Summer and Peter's enchanting story. While this is a tale of romance, it goes so much deeper than that, as is a trademark of Mrs. Sawyer's. It's about grieving mothers, aching sons, aging grandmothers, faithful farmers, frustrated neighbors...
But, most of all, it's about sharing God's love. His heart is written on every page of this amazing book, and I often found myself smiling at the joy He has shared with me through this story but also through the circumstances of my life. Like Summer, and the apostle Paul, I have learned to be content no matter each situation I face.
Readers of Carrie Turansky and Robin Lee Hatcher will enjoy this book's heart and hope.
But, most of all, it's about sharing God's love. His heart is written on every page of this amazing book, and I often found myself smiling at the joy He has shared with me through this story but also through the circumstances of my life. Like Summer, and the apostle Paul, I have learned to be content no matter each situation I face.
Readers of Carrie Turansky and Robin Lee Hatcher will enjoy this book's heart and hope.
October 25, 2018
Second Read
And Thomas crowed, "Woohoo!"
This book. <3 <3 I literally could read this in one sitting... it would probably only take me a couple hours. I love it so much!
The characters are glorious! Summer, Peter, Thomas, Grandmother, and did I mention Peter? <3
You know how some books give you that happy feeling.... a feeling that's so hard to describe, but it's such a good feeling. This is what I feel with this book. It makes me happy and sad when I'm done with it!
And I know, I really shouldn't re-read books when I have so many others to read! XD Oh well.
#noregrets
First Read
Ahhhh. this book!!!!!! <3
First off, if you haven't read this book, go read it!! My sister gave this to me for Christmas and I'm so glad she did!!! ;) You're a dear, sis!
The Characters:
Summer - she had so many losses, but I'm glad she eventually had joy!! I loved her!!
Peter Ollenburger - let me go cry and grin in the corner until I control myself! Seriously, he is the sweetest man! Sweet, muscular, huge, and loving. <3 AND, he speaks German and of course has the accent. Makes it even better!
Thomas - aw, loved him!! His point-blank question were funny, but I know his father and Summer didn't appreciate it much. ;)
Grandmother - sweet, old lady!
Nadine - haha, she has a temper. ;) But she's so nice as well -
The other characters were great too! I think this review would be huge if I named each one, but I really liked them all! :)
But I'm completely hooked with Mr. Ollenburger! WHO WOULD NOT LIKE HIM?!
The Story-line:
I love stories that involve train travels to the west!!! It is most wonderful! :) I just loved the whole story!
Content:
One kiss, but not detailed.
All-in-all:
LOVED IT!! This review won't express how much I loved this book, but all the "I LOVED IT" phrases will have to do! Seriously though! It was amazing! I simply can't wait to read it again - *grins* - and it might be soon!! ;) Everytime I think back on it, it gives me the happy chills! It was so sweet, full, and just wonderful! Ahhh! You will not regret reading this book!
So, five stars - definitely!
And Thomas crowed, "Woohoo!"
This book. <3 <3 I literally could read this in one sitting... it would probably only take me a couple hours. I love it so much!
The characters are glorious! Summer, Peter, Thomas, Grandmother, and did I mention Peter? <3
You know how some books give you that happy feeling.... a feeling that's so hard to describe, but it's such a good feeling. This is what I feel with this book. It makes me happy and sad when I'm done with it!
And I know, I really shouldn't re-read books when I have so many others to read! XD Oh well.
#noregrets
First Read
Ahhhh. this book!!!!!! <3
First off, if you haven't read this book, go read it!! My sister gave this to me for Christmas and I'm so glad she did!!! ;) You're a dear, sis!
The Characters:
Summer - she had so many losses, but I'm glad she eventually had joy!! I loved her!!
Peter Ollenburger - let me go cry and grin in the corner until I control myself! Seriously, he is the sweetest man! Sweet, muscular, huge, and loving. <3 AND, he speaks German and of course has the accent. Makes it even better!
Thomas - aw, loved him!! His point-blank question were funny, but I know his father and Summer didn't appreciate it much. ;)
Grandmother - sweet, old lady!
Nadine - haha, she has a temper. ;) But she's so nice as well -
The other characters were great too! I think this review would be huge if I named each one, but I really liked them all! :)
But I'm completely hooked with Mr. Ollenburger! WHO WOULD NOT LIKE HIM?!
The Story-line:
I love stories that involve train travels to the west!!! It is most wonderful! :) I just loved the whole story!
Content:
One kiss, but not detailed.
All-in-all:
LOVED IT!! This review won't express how much I loved this book, but all the "I LOVED IT" phrases will have to do! Seriously though! It was amazing! I simply can't wait to read it again - *grins* - and it might be soon!! ;) Everytime I think back on it, it gives me the happy chills! It was so sweet, full, and just wonderful! Ahhh! You will not regret reading this book!
So, five stars - definitely!
March 24, 2018
This is my second book by Kim Vogel Sawyer and she is quickly becoming a favourite. She handles difficult subjects with grace and writes characters you get to know and love and think about well after you closed the book. Her stories is also filled with the word.
My favourite character was Peter. I think he might be my favourite male character so far this year. He is a giant of a man with the most tender heart and he was not afraid to challenge Summer.
My favourite scene was the one at the end by the train station.
I loved the theme of this story - how you can experience joy even in times of hardships.
My favourite character was Peter. I think he might be my favourite male character so far this year. He is a giant of a man with the most tender heart and he was not afraid to challenge Summer.
My favourite scene was the one at the end by the train station.
I loved the theme of this story - how you can experience joy even in times of hardships.
December 4, 2015
There was no way that I couldn't like this book. Peter, a German Mennonite, blunders through his English, but is an endearing character. Summer, after losing her husband and four children, must find hope in God again (which she finds in Peter's home). Thomas, Peter's son, becomes Summer's pupil. And Peter's grandmother, who knows no English, yet shows her love toward Summer. It was a sweet book that makes you feel so happy inside. The romance wasn't rushed and leaves you at the end feeling satisfied with how everything works out.
April 20, 2019
I really, really enjoyed this sweet, gentle romance. <3 I loved the fact that the emphasis was not on physical attraction but on the gradual knitting together of hearts as they grew to know each other. I liked the fact that they held back from the idea of a marriage of convenience but were still very scrupulous about giving no cause for suspicion. I loved Thomas almost at once, and I was surprised at how much I grew to know Lena.
As promised, Peter was an absolute darling, and I loved him so much! <3<3<3 I loved the way Summer respected him for so many reasons rather than looking down on him for the few things he couldn't do. I loved how gentle he was with her and the way he slowly drew her out of her sorrow and into God's love. And I loved the way Summer gradually let herself learn to live and love again rather than fighting every step of the way.
My only complaint would be that the last couple of chapters moved so fast, I didn't feel as connected to the characters as before. I understand why because of the time that was needed for the changes that had to be made, but it still threw me just a little.
I'm very glad I picked this up and will probably read it again. :)
4.5 stars
Content--suspicions of a man and woman acting improperly by living together (they never even sleep under the same roof); a few accidentally awkward comments; mentions of illness and deaths; a few mentions of outhouses and chamber pots; one kiss (not descriptive)
As promised, Peter was an absolute darling, and I loved him so much! <3<3<3 I loved the way Summer respected him for so many reasons rather than looking down on him for the few things he couldn't do. I loved how gentle he was with her and the way he slowly drew her out of her sorrow and into God's love. And I loved the way Summer gradually let herself learn to live and love again rather than fighting every step of the way.
My only complaint would be that the last couple of chapters moved so fast, I didn't feel as connected to the characters as before. I understand why because of the time that was needed for the changes that had to be made, but it still threw me just a little.
I'm very glad I picked this up and will probably read it again. :)
4.5 stars
Content--suspicions of a man and woman acting improperly by living together (they never even sleep under the same roof); a few accidentally awkward comments; mentions of illness and deaths; a few mentions of outhouses and chamber pots; one kiss (not descriptive)
March 18, 2018
Summer is traveling with her husband and 4 children to Kansas during the western expansion. But tragedy overcomes them, and Summer ends up alone in the small Mennonite town of Gaeddert. This book reminded me a great deal of Janette Oke's wonderful Alberta prairie stories. Full of sweetness and faith, it was an enjoyable and easy to read story. I loved how Summer comes to know Jesus even though she doesn't understand a word of German, but feels God's spirit as she worships with the town's Mennonite people. Peter was a gentle giant who was so caring to his son, his grandmother in law, and Summer. Thomas was absolutely adorable and any mother would have fallen in love with him. Predictably sweet ending but still an overall enjoyable read.
December 12, 2017
Waiting for Summer’s Return
This book reminded me very much of Janette Oke’s Love Comes Softly—yet it was also very different. Summer and Peter aren’t married like Clark and Marty were; rather, Peter has hired Summer to tutor his son, Thomas, and neither of them really have any intention of marrying for convenience, even though the Mennonite community tries to guilt Peter for acting unseemly (which, he is in no manner, way, shape, or form).
Summer was a very believable character with real sorrow and yearning for peace and joy. Peter was such a strong and admirable character. Now that I think of it, he was just a little perfect. I don’t remember any of his flaws, besides perhaps feeling inferior. And Thomas was just a wonderful little boy full of fun, tendencies to anger, and things he must grow through. Grossmutter was also a fine addition to the characters. She basically said nothing, but her presence added just that extra special something.
There was a lot to admire in both Summer and Peter. One of the things I greatly appreciated was how their thoughts didn’t turn to romance all the time. Instead, they were friends helping each other out. Neither of them were going to marry if it went against God’s will for their lives. There was such an anti-follow-your-heart theme in this story. I really, really liked it!! They allowed their lives to go on a natural course and weren’t complicating matters greatly with feelings and misunderstandings. There was accusation that Peter and Summer were living unBiblically, but it was external accusations and their lifestyle proved otherwise to the reader. There was no sensual drive in either of these characters during the book, which to me makes this book way chaster than other books that do not mention unseemly behavior. I appreciated the way it was handled.
It did seem to wrap up really quickly and had a little more stilted flow than Sawyer’s other novels. The quick wrap-up satisfied me, because I really wanted to see it end how I wanted it to (which, of course, it did). The stilt is probably due to Peter being Mennonite so his language (even in the narration for his POV) was broken Germanic-English. That was pretty cool.
This book had a solid Christian salvation message through Jesus Christ. The characters studied the Bible together. There was some Mennonite church history as well. I really enjoyed the spiritual content of this one as well.
This book reminded me very much of Janette Oke’s Love Comes Softly—yet it was also very different. Summer and Peter aren’t married like Clark and Marty were; rather, Peter has hired Summer to tutor his son, Thomas, and neither of them really have any intention of marrying for convenience, even though the Mennonite community tries to guilt Peter for acting unseemly (which, he is in no manner, way, shape, or form).
Summer was a very believable character with real sorrow and yearning for peace and joy. Peter was such a strong and admirable character. Now that I think of it, he was just a little perfect. I don’t remember any of his flaws, besides perhaps feeling inferior. And Thomas was just a wonderful little boy full of fun, tendencies to anger, and things he must grow through. Grossmutter was also a fine addition to the characters. She basically said nothing, but her presence added just that extra special something.
There was a lot to admire in both Summer and Peter. One of the things I greatly appreciated was how their thoughts didn’t turn to romance all the time. Instead, they were friends helping each other out. Neither of them were going to marry if it went against God’s will for their lives. There was such an anti-follow-your-heart theme in this story. I really, really liked it!! They allowed their lives to go on a natural course and weren’t complicating matters greatly with feelings and misunderstandings. There was accusation that Peter and Summer were living unBiblically, but it was external accusations and their lifestyle proved otherwise to the reader. There was no sensual drive in either of these characters during the book, which to me makes this book way chaster than other books that do not mention unseemly behavior. I appreciated the way it was handled.
It did seem to wrap up really quickly and had a little more stilted flow than Sawyer’s other novels. The quick wrap-up satisfied me, because I really wanted to see it end how I wanted it to (which, of course, it did). The stilt is probably due to Peter being Mennonite so his language (even in the narration for his POV) was broken Germanic-English. That was pretty cool.
This book had a solid Christian salvation message through Jesus Christ. The characters studied the Bible together. There was some Mennonite church history as well. I really enjoyed the spiritual content of this one as well.
July 17, 2013
ZOWEEE!! Mind-blowing how this book HEALS me ( cried many times and healed me same time!!!!!!
This author and book has a wonderful way of capturing the hearkbreaking themes of loss/ changes ahead of them. The healing process is intersting between the characters and the community. There are possbiltbles throught the realationships and LOVE Shines through the changes of life.
The quote that stands out is I hide the words in my heart blew me away because of the recurring loss theme in my life and I am deaf feelings are not easy sometimes.
( I lost a sister many years ago and forgotten the stages of loss) Slowly I realized holding in anger is not healthy so I chose a different way to communicate by writing stroies through loss and healing in life issues. My heart began to heal when I embraces Happyiness ( through songs and many friends. I am just starting on the healing path of life.
Ok back to story-- the characters struggles on the losses of life semi distant cautious mode then gradually they get used to each other.
The father is little ahead of healing process more than summer who was struggling on loss of her family. Also the intersting parrells on the old life ( losses on the man and summer vs the new life ( healing between them)
The way he uses quotes words to comfort her was intersting gentle and truthful at the same time! The UN kindness of creatain members of the community hurts them and me as well. ( I have been felt left out or not understood when I was young because of my deafness.)
The father stood up to the church and I still make my own path of creativity to show people I can do things despite my deafness.
This has been intersting lesson in reading this book and I would like to read some more. :-)
This author and book has a wonderful way of capturing the hearkbreaking themes of loss/ changes ahead of them. The healing process is intersting between the characters and the community. There are possbiltbles throught the realationships and LOVE Shines through the changes of life.
The quote that stands out is I hide the words in my heart blew me away because of the recurring loss theme in my life and I am deaf feelings are not easy sometimes.
( I lost a sister many years ago and forgotten the stages of loss) Slowly I realized holding in anger is not healthy so I chose a different way to communicate by writing stroies through loss and healing in life issues. My heart began to heal when I embraces Happyiness ( through songs and many friends. I am just starting on the healing path of life.
Ok back to story-- the characters struggles on the losses of life semi distant cautious mode then gradually they get used to each other.
The father is little ahead of healing process more than summer who was struggling on loss of her family. Also the intersting parrells on the old life ( losses on the man and summer vs the new life ( healing between them)
The way he uses quotes words to comfort her was intersting gentle and truthful at the same time! The UN kindness of creatain members of the community hurts them and me as well. ( I have been felt left out or not understood when I was young because of my deafness.)
The father stood up to the church and I still make my own path of creativity to show people I can do things despite my deafness.
This has been intersting lesson in reading this book and I would like to read some more. :-)
October 22, 2025
Well, my read of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s backlist continues! This was an early read of hers and I really enjoyed it. I really seem to enjoy these “fish out of water” stories of hers where someone moves from an urban area to the Kansas prairie and has to live a completely different lifestyle. This is compounded by the fact that Summer has lost her husband and four children (this is not a spoiler; it has happened before the book even begins) so the story touched on grief as well. Peter was truly a kind man and an inspiration to those around him and it was nice to see. He was never judgmental and always respectful. I also loved little Thomas. He and Summer had such a special bond. Once again, another gem from this author!
April 12, 2020
What a sweet story..
A tale that started off with sorrow, soon turned into a story filled with faith and love.
I honestly fell in love with the character of Peter! His gentle ways were like a healing balm for Summer's hurting heart, and all their interactions had me smiling with pleasure.
The reason I gave it four stars is because it was very slow-paced, especially at the start, and I found myself a bit bored at times. However hidden in the seemingly leisurely pace of the novel were deep messages of a father's love, a son's longing, a grandmother's sacrifice and woman's journey of discovering the love of God.
The ending was beautiful and satisfying, and I enjoyed it.
I would recommend this if you are looking for a slow, sweet, faith-filled read.
A tale that started off with sorrow, soon turned into a story filled with faith and love.
I honestly fell in love with the character of Peter! His gentle ways were like a healing balm for Summer's hurting heart, and all their interactions had me smiling with pleasure.
The reason I gave it four stars is because it was very slow-paced, especially at the start, and I found myself a bit bored at times. However hidden in the seemingly leisurely pace of the novel were deep messages of a father's love, a son's longing, a grandmother's sacrifice and woman's journey of discovering the love of God.
The ending was beautiful and satisfying, and I enjoyed it.
I would recommend this if you are looking for a slow, sweet, faith-filled read.
March 31, 2016
My rating: 3.75. I liked the character interaction, especially between Summer and the grandmother. The characters felt real and the history felt authentic.
Downsides: the main character's name threw me; it felt really modern, and the little story of how she got the name wasn't told until pretty far into the story. And I wanted at least one or two more chapters so I could enjoy more of who she became after her spiritual path changed direction.
Upsides: clean story, clear Christian message, easy lessons to apply to daily life, accurate history.
Favorite part: the blending in of the Plattdeutsch words. Added a really neat element to the book.
Downsides: the main character's name threw me; it felt really modern, and the little story of how she got the name wasn't told until pretty far into the story. And I wanted at least one or two more chapters so I could enjoy more of who she became after her spiritual path changed direction.
Upsides: clean story, clear Christian message, easy lessons to apply to daily life, accurate history.
Favorite part: the blending in of the Plattdeutsch words. Added a really neat element to the book.
Read
July 21, 2010After Reading Where the Heart Leads I had to read Waiting for Summers Return and learn about the past from the main character in Where the Heart Leads. I very much enjoyed this book learning much about the west when it was being inhabited by people from the east and carrying their values in their current situations. After finishing the book I felt there were still questions about future characters from Where the Heart Leads. I wish she could write another book completing this series. Both books are wonderful stand alone books but easily can be a series.
April 29, 2013
I found this book quite by accident and thought I'd give it a try. I am so glad I made that choice. Being from a German background, I was able to connect with the German and the mannerisms. My own father is from a very small protestant farming community in southern Germany and I had the privilege to spend my summers with my grandparents there.
This book is beautifully written and so easy to get lost in. The main character, Summer, is so heart broken in so many places in this book that I found myself crying along with the story. I really enjoyed the introduction of Peter to the story. I could really follow his actions and found him very noble yet so dedicated to his faith, his family, and his way of life. His son Thomas was a wonderful addition and I had to laugh along with him many times. Lena was a hard character for me to like at first, but she won my heart by the end. Although I have to admit that the towns people made me very angry at various times, I can also understand why they acted as they did. I know how hard it can be to overcome past injustices and trust again.
I have never read any of Kim Vogel Sawyer's work before, but I know I will be looking for more in the near future.
This book is beautifully written and so easy to get lost in. The main character, Summer, is so heart broken in so many places in this book that I found myself crying along with the story. I really enjoyed the introduction of Peter to the story. I could really follow his actions and found him very noble yet so dedicated to his faith, his family, and his way of life. His son Thomas was a wonderful addition and I had to laugh along with him many times. Lena was a hard character for me to like at first, but she won my heart by the end. Although I have to admit that the towns people made me very angry at various times, I can also understand why they acted as they did. I know how hard it can be to overcome past injustices and trust again.
I have never read any of Kim Vogel Sawyer's work before, but I know I will be looking for more in the near future.
March 20, 2018
I'm fast learning that those books I may struggle with at first can turn out to be the most impactful books to read. Because at the beginning it was a little challenging to get into but I enjoyed it towards the middle to the end.
I found the use two languages very creative. Although a little difficult at first.
Summers story broke my heart. But I LOVED Peter whose Faith was VERY inspiring. Plus I loved cute but cheeky Thomas :).
I personally think that Kim Vogel Sawyer is a beautiful writer that just captivates you into the journey of her characters.
This story approaches some interesting topics for example loss, bereavement, religion, fear, language barriers, prayer, faith, cultural conflicts, family dynamics, healing and restoration.
Although I enjoyed this story I think there was room for a little bit more in some areas.
I recommend for all those who enjoy Christian historical fiction. Looking forward to reading book two in the near future :).
I found the use two languages very creative. Although a little difficult at first.
Summers story broke my heart. But I LOVED Peter whose Faith was VERY inspiring. Plus I loved cute but cheeky Thomas :).
I personally think that Kim Vogel Sawyer is a beautiful writer that just captivates you into the journey of her characters.
This story approaches some interesting topics for example loss, bereavement, religion, fear, language barriers, prayer, faith, cultural conflicts, family dynamics, healing and restoration.
Although I enjoyed this story I think there was room for a little bit more in some areas.
I recommend for all those who enjoy Christian historical fiction. Looking forward to reading book two in the near future :).
April 24, 2013
I seldom give a five star rating, but this one deserves every star. It is skillful storytelling and I was fully engaged from the beginning, as Summer struggled to overcome the sorrow in her life. I found myself thinking this must be what it is like to awaken in a foreign country where you don't speak the language. But Summer's strength would not let her give up, though she had reason to. As a mother of sons, my heart was immediately drawn to the motherless Thomas. Even the old grandmother captured my interest as she warmed to the stranger in her home. Perhaps the greatest recommendation I can give is this: I didn't want the book to end.
August 10, 2016
Waiting for Summer's Return was a beautifully written story that held my interest from the beginning. The author did a great job of capturing all the emotions one goes through when experiencing such a great loss, including the estrangement from God and the road back to Him. I really liked how the author weaved Scripture throughout the story without it feeling forced. All the characters seemed authentic and the story realistic. What little romance there was in the book was sweet, tender, and believable. This was the first book I've read by Kim Vogel Sawyer and I'm looking forward to reading book two, Where the Heart Leads. Highly Recommend!
July 13, 2013
What a beautiful and uplifting story! I found it searching on Amazon under "Christian fiction".
The story is a historical romance set in Kansas at the turn of the century. The characters come fully alive in this story and the ending was amazing to me. Scripture references are used throughout as the characters search for answers in their lives.
The story is a historical romance set in Kansas at the turn of the century. The characters come fully alive in this story and the ending was amazing to me. Scripture references are used throughout as the characters search for answers in their lives.
June 12, 2017
A gently unfolding tale that drew me in and wrapped itself around me.
I'm not a huge fan of the Plain genre, but I like to read one occasionally. This one was very well written, and it was nice to have an historical Mennonite setting rather than a contemporary. I really enjoyed it.
I'm not a huge fan of the Plain genre, but I like to read one occasionally. This one was very well written, and it was nice to have an historical Mennonite setting rather than a contemporary. I really enjoyed it.
October 20, 2016
3.8 ⭐️ Good story. Listened to it via audio. Wasn't a fan of the narrator...It made it difficult to indulge. But the story is beautiful.
July 11, 2020
Well this was the first book I've read by Kim Vogel Sawyer. And I have to say it is one of the most depressing novels I've read. The end is nice but getting there was very painful.
I'm not sure this series is for me. I much prefer to laugh than to feel the pain of the characters.
Summer lost everyone. The only people left were her in-laws that were estranged. She lost her husband and four (that's right, 4!) children. She is consumed by grief.
Peter is a single dad with his grandmother-in-law (Lena...loved her!) They are Mennonite and the community is wary (saying it lightly) of outsiders.
Thomas, the boy, broke his ribs falling out of a tree. So, now Peter needs a quasi-governess to help to keep Thomas from falling behind in his learning. Enters Summer.
This is another book where the man is a believer and the woman struggles with G-d.
All's well that ends well, thankfully! If this book didn't have a happy ending after all the trials, pain, and suffering, I'd never read anything else by this author. Also, this would have ended up with a 2 star rating. Now I will have to find a different series and try Kim again.
I'm not sure this series is for me. I much prefer to laugh than to feel the pain of the characters.
Summer lost everyone. The only people left were her in-laws that were estranged. She lost her husband and four (that's right, 4!) children. She is consumed by grief.
Peter is a single dad with his grandmother-in-law (Lena...loved her!) They are Mennonite and the community is wary (saying it lightly) of outsiders.
Thomas, the boy, broke his ribs falling out of a tree. So, now Peter needs a quasi-governess to help to keep Thomas from falling behind in his learning. Enters Summer.
This is another book where the man is a believer and the woman struggles with G-d.
All's well that ends well, thankfully! If this book didn't have a happy ending after all the trials, pain, and suffering, I'd never read anything else by this author. Also, this would have ended up with a 2 star rating. Now I will have to find a different series and try Kim again.
April 16, 2013
Set in Kansas when it was still be settled by intrepid pioneers, this novel would have been more interesting had the author included more historical descriptions and facts. It also would have profited from some additional editing – specifically in the kindle edition – to eliminate some errors and to clarify meaning in some of the dialogue. While the plot is interesting, the end is predictable from the beginning. The author did a good job in presenting Christian concepts and incorporating them into the story. The tale centered on the relationship of a Mennonite miller and a widow from the east. The reader is constantly treated to the backward sentence structure of the miller who is of German descent, but little of his and his church’s beliefs are illustrated in the tale. I appreciate the author’s research to recreate the Low German dialect, but I wish she had explained more the Mennonite way of life, and how it differs from the Amish and English lifestyles. Though not a compelling read, it is nevertheless, an enjoyable one.
July 21, 2013
This story takes place in 1894. Summer Steadman is stuck in Kansas; she was traveling west from Boston to build a future with her husband and children, out on the prairie, when illness struck, and Summer lost them all.
She is seeking employment in a small Mennonite community, to be near the graves of her children, but the people are suspicious of outsiders and she is not having any luck.
Peter Ollenburger is a widower, and needs someone to teach his young son, who unable to attend school until he is recovered from a recent accident. When he hears that a "learned woman" is in town, he believes that Summer is the answer to his prayers. Summer agrees to take the job, but when his son begins to look her as more than a teacher, Peter must make a choice; does he marry this woman to give his son mother, or only marry for love? And will Summer's broken heart heal again?
I really loved this story, and all the characters in it, and their portrayals felt realistic. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy historical fiction such as the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder.
She is seeking employment in a small Mennonite community, to be near the graves of her children, but the people are suspicious of outsiders and she is not having any luck.
Peter Ollenburger is a widower, and needs someone to teach his young son, who unable to attend school until he is recovered from a recent accident. When he hears that a "learned woman" is in town, he believes that Summer is the answer to his prayers. Summer agrees to take the job, but when his son begins to look her as more than a teacher, Peter must make a choice; does he marry this woman to give his son mother, or only marry for love? And will Summer's broken heart heal again?
I really loved this story, and all the characters in it, and their portrayals felt realistic. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy historical fiction such as the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder.
March 7, 2012
Summer is a widow who has lost her husband and children to typhoid, all within days. She is stranded in a rural town amongst people who are too afraid to trust strangers because of their past in europe.
She accepts a post as tutor to a Mennonite child and the telling of her coming to terms with her awful loss and her efforts to fit in with a strange community make this a warm and well told story.
I have read very little about America's early days, and this gave a small taste of the disparate pioneers who worked so hard to build the foundations of the USA. It is set in rural Kansas and depicts the community spirit of a religious community quite well. I enjoyed this tale and will look for more of these stories - they are warm, inoffensive and charming.
She accepts a post as tutor to a Mennonite child and the telling of her coming to terms with her awful loss and her efforts to fit in with a strange community make this a warm and well told story.
I have read very little about America's early days, and this gave a small taste of the disparate pioneers who worked so hard to build the foundations of the USA. It is set in rural Kansas and depicts the community spirit of a religious community quite well. I enjoyed this tale and will look for more of these stories - they are warm, inoffensive and charming.
February 11, 2013
This book finds its setting in Kansas in the late 1800's. The story is about a devout Menninite widower named Peter who hires a woman who recently lost her husband and all of her children to a typhoid epidemic. Peter hires Summer to tutor his son who is ten and recovering from broken ribs. Their lives are so vastly different as is their faith in God. Both are familiar with prayer and God as well as the Bible, but Peter's faith is aboslute and Summer is questioning her faith and how the God Peter knows could take her husband and children. The book explores how their relationship grows and how Summer learns that Peter's God can bring joy to her devastated heart. A very good story.
June 26, 2013
I received this ebook for free on Barns and Noble. I was excited to read another book by Kim.
Kim Vogel Sawyer and a special way of writing stories. First of all I love anything Historical Fiction based in the 1800's. This book is based in Kansas. Summer had just lost her husband and 4 children to Typhoid fever. She is lost without them and sets out on a journey of self discovery and LOVE. She accepts a teaching position for Peter to teach his son Thomas. Summer falls in love with this boy and his father Peter. I fell in love with the characters and with this book from the first page to the last page.
Kim Vogel Sawyer and a special way of writing stories. First of all I love anything Historical Fiction based in the 1800's. This book is based in Kansas. Summer had just lost her husband and 4 children to Typhoid fever. She is lost without them and sets out on a journey of self discovery and LOVE. She accepts a teaching position for Peter to teach his son Thomas. Summer falls in love with this boy and his father Peter. I fell in love with the characters and with this book from the first page to the last page.
August 10, 2014
This was an extremely sad story, but one that probably happened way too often in the time period. Summer Steadman struggled with her guilt and finding joy with all her lost.
I love Peter Ollenburger. Such a man of love and integrity.
The story took a couple of unexpected turns that really added to the story!
This was an emotional and beautiful story. I really enjoy Kim Vogel Sawyer's writing! So GOOD!
I love Peter Ollenburger. Such a man of love and integrity.
The story took a couple of unexpected turns that really added to the story!
This was an emotional and beautiful story. I really enjoy Kim Vogel Sawyer's writing! So GOOD!
March 22, 2011
This was an enjoyable read,the story line pulls at your heart strings for Summer who has lost her husband and children and has no where to go and also for Thomas a little boy without a mom. I enjoyed reading of the life in a house without the modern appliances or plumbing of today.
June 15, 2016
Was a Surprise
Wasn't sure about this book but was surprised that it drew me in so easily. I didn't see that they had compared it to another author's serifs that I enjoyed. I will be reading more by this Author in the future.
Wasn't sure about this book but was surprised that it drew me in so easily. I didn't see that they had compared it to another author's serifs that I enjoyed. I will be reading more by this Author in the future.
September 8, 2011
This book is a lot like Love Comes Softly # 1, but still different enough for me to like so much that I bought it!
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