About the Book ~
Alone in a strange town, can she find healing for her new home . . . and herself?
Seven years ago, orphaned and alone, Em finally arrived at a new home in Iowa after riding the orphan train. But secrets from her past haunt her, and her new life in the Western wilderness is a rough one. When her guardian is shot and killed, Em, now nineteen, finally has the chance to search for her long-lost sister, but she won't be able to do it alone.
For Azure Springs Sheriff Caleb Reynolds, securing justice for the waifish and injured Em is just part of his job. He's determined to solve every case put before him in order to impress his parents and make a name for himself. Caleb expects to succeed. What he doesn't expect is the hold this strange young woman will have on his heart.
Welcome to the charming town of Azure Springs, Iowa, where people care deeply for one another and, sometimes, even fall in love.
For more information about Rachel Fordham and her books, check out her website here!
My Thoughts ~
Sweet and quaint equals The Hope of Azure Springs by Rachel Fordham!
The Hope of Azure Springs gave me some serious Anne of Green Gables vibes, but this endearing tale was completely it's own story, filled with heart-wrenching twists and true love. When you pick up this charming story, be prepared for chuckles, happy sighs, and some tears.
Em 'twas sweet and kind, fragile yet courageous. Her story was truly tragic, but I felt like I could still identify with Em. Who hasn't struggled with their looks or been touched by grief? So much of Em's story revolved around that grief that tore me to pieces, but I cherished the message that we should find the joy in remembering loved ones who have passed. Also, I loved her passion for storytelling because it further showed the significance stories play in our lives - and in the character's lives. ;-)
Caleb 'twas the classic cowboy princely hero that we love to swoon over, but he had a lot to learn about love! Thankfully, he comes to understand the importance of kindness over vain beauty, realizing that when you love someone, then they become the most beautiful to you in all ways. Em and Caleb's love had a nice, organic progression that will leave a happy grin on your face.
The light spiritual thread makes this story appealing to a broader range of people, but Godly truths are clear and present throughout the entire story. And that ending! Oh, how beautiful and romantic and full circle!
Three Stars ~ The Hope of Azure Springs is filled with all kinds of heart! If you love sweet historical romances or Anne of Green Gables, then I think you'd really enjoy this endearing tale.
Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.
Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!
See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!
Hugs!
~V. Joy Palmer
V. Joy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.
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