A Great Story by a New-to-Me Author -- A Daughter's Truth

A few days ago, I had the opportunity to read A Daughter's Truth by a new-to-me author -- Laura Bradford. And I found it to be a great story.

This author has written several books in the mystery category but has just recently branched into Amish-based women's fiction. I can't speak for her previous works, but this new genre seems to be an outstanding choice for her. The story's conflict takes place between the Amish and English worlds. The characters from both worlds and their stories are very well developed as they work to the resolution of the struggle by . . . well, any more would be a spoiler! 

If you are a fan of well-written Amish fiction, you should find lots to enjoy in A Daughter's Truth. The story is filled with elements, though, that are easily relatable to readers with a variety of interests. I encourage you to go ahead and pre-order this book (releasing in late May) and then follow me to find Laura Bradford's first Amish-based book, Portrait of a Sister.

Thanks to the author for providing me with an advance copy of the book. I am happy to share my honest thoughts in this review.

About the Book:

Emma Lapp tries to be the perfect daughter, to earn the loving embrace of her family and her Amish community in Pennsylvania. Yet she can’t quite win her mother’s smile—or her forgiveness for a transgression Emma can’t quite place . . .

Emma knows she’s a reminder of her mother’s greatest sorrow, having been born on the same day Mamm lost her beloved sister. The one bright spot has been the odd trinkets anonymously left at her aunt’s grave each year on Emma’s birthday—gifts Emma secretly hides because they upset her parents. But the day she turns 22, a locket bears a surprise that sends her on an unexpected journey . . .

Searching for answers, Emma travels to the English world and finds a kinship as intriguing as it is forbidden.  But is this newfound connection enough to leave behind the future she’d expected? The answers are as mysterious, and as devastating, as the truth that divides Emma from the only family, and the only life, she’s ever known . . .  

About the Author:

As a child, Laura Bradford fell in love with writing over a stack of blank paper, a box of crayons, and a freshly sharpened number two pencil. From that moment forward, she never wanted to do or be anything else. Today, Laura is the national bestselling author of several mystery series, including the Amish Mysteries, the Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries, the Jenkins & Burns Mysteries, and the Tobi Tobias Mystery Series. Her first women's fiction novel, Portrait of a Sister, is now available.

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Laura is a former Agatha Award nominee, and the recipient of an RT Reviewer’s Choice Award. A graduate of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, Laura enjoys making memories with her family, baking, and being an advocate for those living with Multiple Sclerosis.

Engaging Historical Story -- A Silken Thread

A Silken Thread is just what you would expect from Kim Vogel Sawyer -- another work of great historical fiction! As always, she shares a story filled with faith, family, and hope.

In this story, Kim Vogel Sawyer has tackled some difficult subjects and done so with great style. Issues of racism and social class conflict are not pretty elements to read about. But the realism she injects and the great character development she presents bring those topics to light in a very engaging and touching way. As you follow the characters' stories, you will certainly be pulling for them to find their way forward from their seemingly impossible challenges into a better way of life. 

I highly recommend A  Silken Thread to fans of great historical fiction. Thanks to the author for providing a copy of the book. I am happy to share my own thoughts in this review.

About the Book:

For readers who love a heartwarming romance and a rich historical setting comes a tale of a young woman with a heavy burden, the International Cotton Exposition, and the pursuit of true love.

Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and "take care of Mama" by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family. Operating a silk loom at the Atlanta Exposition will give her the chance to capture the heart of a man wealthy enough to take care of Laurel and any children she might bear, as well as her mother.

Langdon Rochester's parents have given him an ultimatum: settle down with a wife or lose his family inheritance. At the Exposition, Langdon meets Laurel. Marrying her would satisfy his parents's command, she would look lovely on his arm for social events, and in her besotted state, he believes she would overlook him continuing pursuing rowdy adventures with his unmarried buddies. Langdon decides to woo Laurel. Willie Sharp is not well-off and must take on an extra job at the Atlanta Exposition as a security guard. When mischief-makers cause trouble in the Women's Building, Willie is put in charge of keeping the building secure. He enjoys visiting with Laurel, who seems like the little sister he never had, but his feelings for Laurel change to something much deeper. Can Willie convince Laurel that he can give her better life--even with so little to offer?

About the Author:


KIM VOGEL SAWYER is a highly acclaimed, best-selling author with more than one million books in print, in seven different languages. Her titles have earned numerous accolades including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military husband, Don, where she continues to write gentle stories of hope. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and grandchildren.