A Promise Kept

November 11, 2013
Hatcher (Where the Heart Lives series) departs from her more recent historical novels for this contemporary exploration of the conundrum faced by believers when they accept God’s word but can’t see it being manifested in their lives. Seeking refuge from the pain of her recent divorce, Allison Kavanagh moves to the remote mountain cabin in Idaho, bequeathed to her by beloved Aunt Emma, a successful nature photographer. Smarting from the conviction that she precipitated the divorce by acting on spiritual guidance to issue a tough-love ultimatum, Allison takes strength in the 2010s from a surprisingly parallel and secret side of Emma’s life in the 1920s, pieced together through old photos and journal entries. With the help of family and newfound church community, Allison reconsiders the trajectory of her marriage, and gradually works through her spiritual and emotional turmoil. The mountain setting is as appealing an aspect of this upbeat, well-paced novel as Allison, Emma, and their family and friends. Agent: Natasha Kern, Natasha Kern Literary Agency.

Starred review from February 15, 2014

Allison Kavanagh lost her faith in God when her husband of 20 years walked out, shattering her life and dreams. But when she inherits her great-aunt Emma's house in Kings Meadow, ID, Allison tries to pick up the pieces of her faith. Settling into her new home, she discovers a wedding dress, photographs, and a lifetime of Emma's journals in the attic. Within their pages, Allison finds out that Emma's long-held secret mirrors her own. Will Allison learn to trust that God will answer her prayers in His own way and time as He did with her aunt? VERDICT Narrated alternately by Emma and Allison, Hatcher's latest is an uplifting and heartwarming story about the power of faith to set people free from the pain of their pasts. Fans of the author's previous books (A Bride for All Seasons; Hearts of Gold) will enjoy this story of two women separated by a generation who share the same strong beliefs in God. Recommended where Tracie Peterson's books (All Things Hidden; The Miner's Lady) are popular.

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2013
Award-winning Hatcher's (Belonging, 2011) latest is a story of love, heartbreak, and redemption. If Allison Kavanagh had her way, she would be happily married and living close to her family. Instead, after inheriting her great-aunt's mountain cabin, she resides there with only her little dog for company. Initially, Allison is consumed by her loneliness and regrets. Soon, though, she begins to make a new life for herself with fulfilling work, close friends, and meaningful hobbies. Eventually one of her favorite activities becomes immersing herself in her great-aunt Emma's old journals, where she discovers a strong woman who faced trials similar to her own. Emma used her faith to carry her through her struggles, and Allison gradually allows herself to do the same. As Hatcher blends the past and present, Allison and Emma's lives take on new meaning as we watch them each embark on solitary journeys. Hatcher's inspirational novel dramatizes the perception that even when it seems like you're alone, you are always part of a greater plan.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)