Her Secret Hope (A Season in Pinecraft)

Her Secret Hope by Shelley Shepard Gray has Lilly Kurtz returning to Pinecraft for a fresh start. It has been two years since her first visit to the unique Amish and Mennonite town. Lilly was adopted as a baby and her family never kept it a secret. Actually, it seems one of the first things Mrs. Kurtz's tells people (heavens knows why). Lilly also did not feel accepted by the children at school. Mary Margaret, Betsy, and Esther are the first true friends Lilly had had in her life. I know what it is like to feel that you do not fit in and to have people judge you. Lilly may be in a new city, but she has still has to learn to let people get to know her. It seems that Lilly keeps a protective a shield around her. The characters are realistic and developed. I like that we get to catch up with Mary Margaret, Betsy, Esther, and their husbands. Lilly gets a job at bed and breakfast that is run by Nancy (the place the young women stayed on their first visit to Pinecraft). I like that we get to catch up with Nancy and her friendly chef. Lilly may believe that she is destined to remain single, but it seems God has other plans for her. Of course, Lilly needs to be willing to let down her barriers and be happy with who she is. I just love November Byler. She is a spirited character. I hope I am as lively and quick witted at that age. I did feel that the story moved a little slow in places and there was a repetition of details. The author captured Pinecraft and Siesta Key. I understood why Lilly liked going to Siesta Key beach, it is a beautiful beach (it is my favorite beach). Her Secret Hope is the third and final book in A Season in Pinecraft series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the series in order. It will allow you to get to know the characters and their stories. There are good life lessons in Her Secret Hope including that God is in control. Her Secret Hope is a touching tale with a returning friend, a spirited grandmother, a bored farmer, a flirtatious chef, an alarming allegation, and a gracious God.