Child of Mine

I have a confession to make. Though I've been given many recommendations, hints, and outright directives I have never read a Christian Amish romance.

There, I've said it.

I just couldn't help it. I've always loved historical novels but ones with adventure and intrigue. Somehow, in my mind, Amish novels just didn't fit my criteria of a good read. Even if it was only the subplot.

Then I was given the opportunity to read Child of Mine by David & Beverly Lewis.

Kelly Maines loves her daughter, if only she knew where the girl was. . .
For years, Kelly has tirelessly sought her stolen daughter, neglecting her health and relationships in search of her missing child.
Since his brother's death Jack Livingston has been raising his adopted niece with the help of their loyal Amish nanny Laura Mast.
As one clue leads to another will Kelly find her beloved child or loose what little she has left?


I admit as an adoption advocate the idea of a mother searching for her stolen daughter was heart wrenching and drew me in almost instantly.
Kelly Maines was a character that connected with this Mama's heart and I couldn't help but root for her as she fought between achieving her dreams, healing, or finding peace with both. She was a real character to me not an overly clean Christian version of a hurting woman but a hurting woman looking for peace.

Likewise, Jack made me laugh, the confusion he faced re-entering the dating scene while dealing with an aging Nattie was balanced beautifully with his tangible love for a little girl who changed his life.

The Lewis' are good at spinning a plot.
The slow revealing of each character's story, the events that made them into the people they had become were beautifully woven together with each narrative flowing into the next. I felt it was a great illustration of just how easily lives can be intertwined without us realizing the destination. This is a great novel for readers who like their books to be a journey rather than something to be consumed.

This talent at spinning out their plot helps give the Lewis' characters depth and humanity. I would go as far as saying that it would be difficult for the target audience to not find at least one character with whom their resonate.

That said, at times, I'll admit, I was a bit frustrated by the over-description which occurred, particularly in the book's earlier chapters. Initial character description felt a little forced with details being added for the sake of adding details.

The positive side of this, if it wasn't for writing up a review, I would have easily forgot the awkwardness of these initial introductions with complete outfit descriptions thanks to the overwhelming charm and heart which followed.

I would highly recommend this book to any readers looking for a good solid novel with a lot of heart and none of the smut that so often ruins a good simple romance.

4.5 starts out of 5



I received this book from Bethany House Publishing in exchange for my honest review.