Molly’s Prize from Love In the Balance: Wendy Lawton
Cassie’s Prize from Though My Heart is Torn: Jenny (“nightowlreading” e-mail)
Bonnie’s Prize from Among the Pines: Martha Sturm
Laurie’s Prize from Mistaken: Bonnie Walker
Georgie’s Prize from On Distant Shores: Rebecca (“sunflower” e-mail)
And the grand prize of all 5 letters and keepsakes in the antique box is: Bonnie Roof
Rocky Knob, Virginia 1901
Lonnie,
I never thought I’d ever write you a letter, but you won’t ever read this because I’ll never send it. Besides, I don’t have anyone else to write to.
I also never thought we’d be in this mess. You and I, married to the same man. But I guess that’s over now, isn’t it? You’ve moved on as you had to. And I have Gideon. I honestly didn’t think they would pick me over you. There are moments that I’m sorry they did. It all comes rushing back and I remember us sitting in the church the day the reverend told Gideon that I would be his wife instead of you. Do you remember what Gideon did? He got down on his knees right there, looked me straight in the eyes, and begged me not to demand he return. That’s when I knew. I always felt it, but that’s when I knew without a shadow of a doubt that he loved you and not me. All that to say, if you ever wonder if I’m happy now…I assure you I’m not.
There’s no happiness in what I’ve done. No peace.
This seems to be what my life is made of. I’ve lived for smiles. I’ve lived for laughter. I’ve lived for the moments that take your breath away–certain the consequences won’t sting in the morning as much as I think they will.
They always do.
Just like when I met Gideon. I looked into those green eyes of his and suddenly forgot about everything else. All my fears and insecurities were chased away in his touch. The sound of his voice whispering my name. We both know what he wanted and it was never real love. It’s always just a moment. A brief, blissful moment then heartache follows.
Maybe that’s why I did what I did—revenge. Except it’s not as sweet as I thought it would be. Perhaps because he’s not the same man he once was. There’s something inside him, a desire to do good, that wasn’t there before. I see pieces of him that are changing. I wish I could figure out why.
Especially in moments like today—when this man who couldn’t stand still long enough to truly get to know a girl is missing his family so fierce, he can hardly speak. When he looks past me like I’m not standing there. When his eyes are shadowed—a sorrow so heavy across his brow, that I know it’s you he longs for. These are the moments I wish I hadn’t kept the secret from him, wish I’d told him that our marriage was intact when he thought it no longer was. It was my fault that he thought he was free to marry another. That he was free to marry you. Free to give you his heart. His life.
I fear I’ll never be enough to fill all that he’s lost. There are days that I grow so weary of trying. Perhaps this burden was never mine to bear. Perhaps I wasn’t meant to walk beside this man down the road of life. Maybe it was meant to be you. Lonnie, I’m so sorry. I want to tell Jacob I’m sorry as well. I wish I could, but I’m terrified to look into his little face and say the words…
To tell him that it was me who took his papa away.
This is when my greatest regret takes wings. It flies from my heart to the bed of this sleeping boy who’s no more than a baby. I wonder what he looks like. And if he has green eyes like Gideon. Do you sing Jacob to sleep and promise that everything is going to be alright? That though he’ll never know his father, you’ll make it up to him somehow…someway? How do you do this without weeping?
Or perhaps that’s not possible.
There are nights that I want to tell you I’m sorry. Nights that I lie awake in bed all alone, while Gideon sleeps in his chair. As far from me as he possibly can be. Those are the nights I wish I could turn back time.
There’s moments when I feel like there’s just no hope. Am I in too deep? Or is there a way out of this heartache? I want to trust in this God that I saw in you. I want to better understand the changes I see in Gideon. I want to trust that God can truly be a light unto my path as the Bible says. But I don’t know where to begin. I don’t know how to find that path, set my feet at the beginning of it and simply walk forward.
Do what I need to do so that Jacob can know his father. I know that will take courage and I want to find it. There’s nothing heroic about me. But I’d like to think that someday soon I could rise up and make this right. For Jacob. For you.
For Gideon. I love him more than he knows.
Cassie
Gideon O’Riley has two wives–but he doesn’t know it.
Giveaway:
Cassie’s prize bundle includes: Framed sheet music of the hymn “Before the Throne of God”, ginger snaps and assorted tea, plus a signed copy of book 2 in the Cadence of Grace series, THOUGH MY HEART IS TORN. ** If the winner has not read the 1st book in the series, BE STILL MY SOUL, they are more than welcome to choose that book instead 🙂 A winner will be drawn on May 19th and contacted via email.
To enter for this prize, simply leave any comment below. If you’d like to share…in THOUGH MY HEART IS TORN, “Before the Throne of God” was the hymn that gave Both Cassie and Gideon strength in a time of need. Is there a hymn that is dear to you?
We invite you to join us each weekday this week as we hop through cyberspace and history, gleaning hope from each heroine’s journey.
Loved reading this letter. Truly makes me want to read the book to see what is going on. Sounds wonderful.
Good morning, Joelle! I am so, so glad you enjoyed reading Cassie’s letter and that it sparked that curiosity for the book. Blessed by your comment 🙂
Another Joelle! 🙂
Excited to read your book. Thanks for the chance to win!
Thank you, Amanda! So glad you are entered!
Beautiful letter that feels like she poured her heart out on the page.
Thank you for your sweet comment, Sherry!!
Beautiful letter. I wish everyone good luck. THis is an amazing story. I enjoyed it very much as well as Joanne’s first book. IF you haven’t read the first one, I encourage you to read it, you will LOVE the story. Joanne knows how to captivated a reader from the start and her books are Amazing!!!! There’s alot to say but I will not spoil it for anyone. 🙂 Blessings.
Keren,
It’s always meant so much to know how you enjoyed first Be Still My Soul and then Though My Heart is Torn. Thank you for always being an encouragement and a sweet face out and about. I am so eager to get you the third book! I thought of you during moments of writing it 🙂
Thank you so much for taking a part in the trust chronicles. I am so glad I ran across it and am able to participate. This letter caught my interest and I can’t wait to read the book.
Kali, it is such a joy to be a part of it, made so much more so by the wonderful friends and readers who are joining us like you! I’m so glad you enjoyed Cassie’s letter and if you get a chance to read the Cadence of Grace series, I pray it might bless you in some way. Thank you!
Great letter! Now I need to read the book!
Good morning, Shanna! Thank you so much!
loved reading cassie’s letter to lonnie…thanks for sharing, joanne 🙂
Karen, brings me a smile to see you here. 🙂 Thank you!
I love reading the letters and makes me want to read the book . Thanks for the contest . Would love to win .
lizd225(at)gmail(dot)com
Elizabeth, I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying the letters. Thrilled to have you join us!
Wow…. I can’t wait to read the second book in the series! 🙂 I loved the first book!
Thanks, Lisa!! I so hope you enjoy Though My Heart is Torn and just thrilled that you loved Be Still My Soul. Thank you! 🙂
Cassie’s letter only helps to enforce that as much as you want to hate her you can’t. I wonder if this letter was written during the time she was sick? Anyway, I love it! I’m eagerly awaiting book 3 because I want to know what else is in store for this couple.
Dawn,
Cassie was such a challenge to write. She’s part villain, then part heroine and as one side of her continues to grow, and her changes take root, I’ve always hoped that readers would find something to like about her. Hmmm… great question. I sort of pulled from the point in the story right in those moments before she gets sick. You are so observant! 🙂 Thanks for being here!
I’m halfway through Though My Heart Is Torn, or maybe a bit further in, right about the time I think Cassie might have written this letter to Lonnie. You got me pulling for this girl. To find the courage to do what she knows in her heart is the right thing. As much harm as she’s caused, I do hope for a happy ending for her.
Lori, it means so much to have you reading Though My Heart is Torn and also to know that Cassie just may be a character to root for in the end is so encouraging. I really wanted her heart to come through in this letter, and those small steps she’s taking (right about where you are in the story!) 🙂
I have Burning Sky on my nightstand and am just itching to read it! I lost my kindle 🙁 and therefore Red Shirt and Morrow have gone missing, so I’m searching for them and am also going to read Regina’s Love in the Balance. These are the stories on the top of my list and I’m so excited to read Willa’s!!!
Oh man, Joanne, it is too early to have tears in my eyes! Cassie is such a great character and I really hope she finds her ‘Gideon’ one day in one of your books. (a certain preacher, perhaps?) God bless!
Oh, Debbie, did this bring tears?? You are such a dear! And all at the same time, a terrible stinker, lol 😉 Oh the things I have planned for Cassie. I don’t know if her story will ever be written, but I’ve been dreaming up her future, that’s for sure 😉
Waaaaaaaaaaaah. How is it you can make me cry in a letter? Huh? You owe me! I am dehydrated! All…sniff…be…sniff…cause…of(blows nose like a goose) you!
Two cries in a row! 🙂 I need to go back and re-read the letter, I think and insert some kleenex in there! <3
Congratulations Joanne. I’d love the opportunity to win your second book.
Blessings,
Jodie Wolfe
Thank you so much, Jodie! I’m so glad you’re here! 🙂
I can’t wait to read book two in the series. Thanks for the great giveaway!
Yay, Katie! I’m so glad you’re looking forward to Though My Heart is Torn. Thrilled you are entered for the giveaway!
Wow, now I am very excited to read the book now! What an interesting and compelling story.
Good morning, Jen! So happy to know you’re looking forward to the book. I so hope you enjoy it!
I love this Trust Chronicles giveaway!
Michelle, and we LOVE having you join us. Thank you!!
Wow, what an intriguing letter! I haven’t read either books, but this has definitely peaked my interest more! =)
lubell1106(at)gmail(dot)com
Elyssa, I am so blessed by your comment and just thrilled to have you visit. Thank you!
I can’t read to read this book! I need to feature it soon on aboutproximity 🙂
It would be so fun! I truly hope you enjoy Though My Heart is Torn. 🙂 Hugs!!
Wow….That adds a lot to the story…I soooo loved this book!!! You are definitely one of my favorite authors 😀
Happy as can be to hear that, Jenna! I’d hoped it would add a little something extra for you as you’ve rad it. Thank you so much! You are one of my favorite readers!! <3
The letter makes me not only want to read this book but also the first book in the series.
Rebecca, Thank you so much! If you have the chance to read the books, I so hope you enjoy them! I hope you have a blessed day!
That was such a beautiful letter! I can’t wait to read your book 🙂 Thanks for a great giveaway!
Good morning, Hannah! I am so happy to hear it! Thank you for being here today!
Joanne I don’t know how I have missed reading this series. BAD ME!! Loved the letter, there’s nothing better than a bad girl trying to do good. 🙂 Thanks for this great post and the magnificent giveaway.
Teresa, It’s wonderful to get to officially meet you! I just love how you phrased that, I feel the same way. Characters with lots of room for growth are my favorite kind 🙂 Thanks for being here and for sharing the link! That was so thoughtful.
Please enter me in the contest. I love your books. That blue necklace is gorgeous.
Susan, consider yourself entered. Thrilled that you stopped in this morning. Thank you!
Wow! I can see so much of the character of Cassie just from that one letter! I didn’t want it to end. I want to read the book!!!!
Oh, Sherry, that is just wonderful to hear! I so hope you get the chance to read the Cadence of Grace series and just pray that they might bless you. Have a wonderful day and thank you for your sweet comment!
Sounds like an exciting series to read. Also,where can I find the previous series,I think it was something about Hope?
Welcome, Bonnie! Great question. The series is called the Cadence of Grace and book 1 is “Be Still My Soul” with book 2 being “Though My Heart is Torn. The last book in the series which will be out in Oct, is “My Hope is Found.” 🙂 Thank you for stopping in today! I hope you have a great day!
Heartwrenching! Thanks for the giveaway!
Bless you for being here, Connie!
Wow! Awesome letter! I have not read the first book and now I need to go get a copy of both! You have me curious and interested in these books. Thank you so much. I am always looking for new authors.
Beth – how wonderful to hear! Thank you! I so hope you enjoy the books if you get a chance to read them. Thanks for your sweet comment!
Thank you for the chance to win. One of my favorite hyms is Go Tell it on the Mountain.
griperang at embarqmail dot com
Oh, Angela, I just love that hymn. It’s one I grew up singing all the time with my family. Can just tap my toes to it right now. 🙂 Hope you have a great day!
what a beautiful letter. I love how Cassie evolves in the reader’s heart. She truly becomes a surprise heroine as you read the story. This letter was deeply moving as you see into Cassie’s heart and thought process a bit more. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Nette <3 You are such an encouragement, always. Big hugs to you and I love that Cassie was a girl who became a heroine to you. That has always been my hope with her. 🙂
I have really enjoyed both of your first two books and I cannot wait for the third to come out.
Such a blessing to hear that, Beth Anne! Thank you! I pray the third book will be a blessing to you.
I have to say, by the end of THOUGH MY HEART IS TORN, I found myself really caring for Cassie, despite what she did. She just wants happiness, like we all do! Can’t wait for the next book and enjoyed her letter today.
Heather, it was so hard to write Cassie’s character, all the while knowing what trouble she caused and wanting her to be a character readers could walk away in the end, feeling hope for her. You’re so right, she just wanted happiness and so much of her journey is discovering what that means–that REAL love. 🙂 Thanks for being here! I’m excited to get you the third book and am just having to sit on my hands to keep from posting the cover 😉
Oh dear. Now I have another book to purchase and read. When will this fear that I have missed another great book go away. I sure hope Heaven is a library.
Thanks for the letter. Made me want to sit down with her and have a heart to heart talk.
oh, Victoria, your comment made me smile!! Yes, all those books would be home in heaven, I think! 🙂 I’m so glad your here and so thankful for the chance to chat. I hope you have a great day!
Hi 🙂
I love the newer hymn “In Christ Alone” and I love “Blessed Assurance” Those are two of my favorites. I love the covers on these books, and I can’t wait to read the stories inside! 🙂
Faith, those are two of my favorites too! Thank you for sharing and for your sweet words on the covers. So great to see you here!
Oh, I can’t wait to read this second book – I’m sure it’ll be just as riveting as the first! 🙂 And I’ve always loved the hymn Day by Day.
Kelly, I will have to look that hymn up! Thank you! Just thrilled that you enjoyed Be Still My Soul and I hope you enjoy Though My Heart is Torn!
Oh my goodness! That letter just makes me want to cry! In a good way! Please enter me in this contest for your book. I would have to choose the first book, though, as I have not read it yet. Definitely have to read this series now!
Brittany McEuen
Brittany,
It just does my heart good to know that Cassie’s letter touched you. And I’m so happy you want to read the book–most definitely–if you’re the winner I will be sure to send you the first book, Be Still My Soul. I pray Lonnie and Gideon’s story will bless you in some way. Thanks so much for being here!
Hi Joanne! I have both of your books on my to-be-read pile, and let me tell you, they just moved up to the very top after reading Cassie’s letter! Whew, I wanted to cry, and I know very little about the characters. That’s the sign of a true author.
No need to enter me, as I already own the books 🙂 But thank you for being a part of the Trust Chronicles. I really enjoyed the Hope Chronicles last year. In fact, that’s how I won your first book; through Karen Barnett. I’m sad I haven’t read it yet, but I am so diving in now!
Jenny,
You are such a dear and I am so blessed by your comment. Happy as can be to know you have the books! And such an honor to know you’re gearing up to read them. I SO hope you enjoy Lonnie and Gideon (and Cassie’s! 🙂 ) story. So fun to hear how we first connected with Karen’s giveaway. What fun!
Hooray, you’re back, Jenny! You won Abby’s prize pack in last year’s contest, right? How fun to see you here, again. 🙂
This was a moving letter! So true about our world today! If they are all this good, I surely want to read them! Thanks!
Thank you so much, Barbara. I’m so happy that Cassie’s letter moved you. Thanks for your comment!
There is something in these lettres that must appeal to each of us as I have discovered some wonderful insights in the comments (our romantic soul perhaps?).
It is nice to be able to dream a little no matter our age!
Thank you Joanne (and all the other authors) for painting a little rainbow in our lives!
P.S. I tried the Coconut Banana Bread (as predicted, it didn’t last 24 hours in this household!)
Noelle,
What a delight to see your comment on the letters and our romantic souls 🙂 And then to also hear that you made the banana bread? Just grinning over here thanks to you. Thrilled you’ve stopped in for Cassie’s letter and you are always such an encouragement. I hope you have a wonderful day!
♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ Victory in Jesus¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪
I feel their pain ~ what will become of them? As they both cherish to do right, to be led by Him. I do pray Cassie finds the Lord. Praying for a character in a novel ~ yup, they are real, in the heart of every girl seeking her real Love.
Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
Oh, Kathleen, just blessed to think of you praying for Cassie. I think there are many Cassie’s out there in the world and even at times, parts of her in us all. That God’s redemptive work will continue to blossom up in us as we strive to draw nearer to HIM. Hugs!
Can’t wait to read your books. Thanks for the giveaway!
superstarsarah94(at)gmail(dot)com
I’m so glad, Sarah! Thank you!
This letter makes me want to read this series even more than I already did!! If I win, I would like the first book. Thank you for the opportunity to enter.
happy to hear that, Donna! I so hope you enjoy the series when you get the chance to read the books! 🙂
I love hymnody in general and could never pick an absolute favorite. (My church recently hosted a hymn sing and after great deliberation, I finally narrowed down my list of requests from over 80 to 9. It was an excruciating process!) One hymn that I love, coincidentally, is “Be Still My Soul.” (I wasn’t even thinking of your book when that one came to mind!) Finlandia is epically beautiful, but the powerful text has always meant a lot to me, too. It’s an excellent reminder to be still before The Lord and acknowledge His faithfulness and sovereignty in every situation.
Joelle,
So thankful for your thoughtful comment. I love hearing about your favorite hymns, and it sounds like there are a great many–as there are truly so many amazing hymns to choose. Be Still My Soul is truly one of my favorite hymns too. Along with Come Thou Fount and others. They are so timeless. Thanks so much for taking the time to read Cassie’s letter and say hi. Thrilled you are here!
Joanne,
Cassie’s letter is spot on chills-worthy. A villain, finding her humanity? <3 <3 <3
Can't wait until Book 3!!!
Ashley
Oh, Ashley, you make me smile 🙂 I love seeing stories through your eyes friend. Which reminds me, I need to GET you # 3!! As soon as things slow down for you, give me a holler. <3
Hi Joanne! How fun is this giveaway?! My favorite hymn is I’ll Fly Away. There’s just something awesome about the picture it paints in my mind. Soaring with the eagles up to God’s presence… Soaking in His awesomeness…
Blessings,
Andrea
Andrea,
I just love that hymn too! It’s one my parents always sang. Just smiling that it’s one of your favorites 🙂 Love the picture you have painted. So wonderful!
Thanks, Joanne! It’s always lovely to receive such compliments because I want my writing to paint vivid pictures in my readers’ minds. I am so humbled by your words.
What a great giveaway! I’d love to win! Your book sounds so inviting!
Leslie, thank you so much! So happy to get to meet you here! 🙂
I just can’t wait to read this book! My favorite hymn is Come Thou Fount.
Marissa, I’m so glad to hear it! I hope you enjoy Though My Heart is Torn! And oh, my, Come Thou Fount is one of my favorites, too! It was the hymn I put into Be Still My Soul for Lonnie to sing 🙂
Oh, Joanne! This letter captures what makes Cassie intriguing. A girl who messed up for selfish reasons, who thinks she has gotten everything she wanted – no matter the cost – and slowly sees the error of her ways. I loved watching her growth in “Though My Heart Is Torn,” and hope to hear more about her in the third book!
Sarah,
That is so sweet, thank you! You have been such an encouragement from the start, all the way back to the endorsement days for Be Still My Soul. I am so thankful for you and blessed to know Cassie’s character stood out to you like that. Thank you!
I would love to read this book! This post has really sparked my interest!
Hi Cassie! Just like the heroine! 🙂 Thanks for being here today and for saying hi! So happy that the post sparked your interest. 🙂
I have not read the first book in this series but I’m about to download it on my kindle. You have my full interest and I need to know what is going on with Cassie!! Thanks for doing this giveaway. I’m sure it took a lot of extra time and effort to create a collaborative project but I am so excited to get o know all the author’s and their heroines! :o)
Hi Dawn! Oh, that’s so great to know that you’re planning on reading Be Still My Soul. I so hope you enjoy it!! Thank you! Collaborating with these ladies has been so fun. So much work behind the scenes, but each minute of it was a blast 🙂 Thanks for being here this week!
What a sweet, heart-breaking letter! I enjoyed getting to know Cassie in your book, although I didn’t think I’d learn to care for her as much as I did. Thank you for sharing her story! I can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you, Regina! Your review of Though My Heart is Torn truly touched my heart! And guess what? I’ve got my nose in chapter one of Love in the Balance while I’m sitting outside with the kids and just smiled and laughed my way through it. It’s so fun!
That was a beautiful letter! Very touching!! Thanks for a chance to win this awesome giveaway. 🙂
So glad to have you here, Kim, so thankful that Cassie’s letter touched you!
Beautiful letter. Looking forward to reading book 2. Thank you for the chance to win a copy.
Good afternoon, Karen! thanks for reading Cassie’s letter and for your sweet comment. 🙂
My favorite hymns have always been, How Firm A Foundation and What Wondrous Love Is This, I am sure you can guess why if you are familiar with them.
Thank you for hosting this part of The Trust Chronicles, I enjoyed last year’s Hope Chronicles very much.
Blessings!
Jasmine A.
montanamade(at)gmail(dot)com
Jasmine,
I will have to look up the first hymn, as it’s one I haven’t heard before–thank you for sharing! What Wondrous Love Is This is so hauntingly beautiful. One of my favorites as well! We are so happy to have you back and joining us again. Thank you!
I would love to read this book and the first one too, thanks!
Fantastic, Jennifer! Thank you! If you get the chance, I truly hope you enjoy the story. 🙂
Enjoyed the letter. A little sad and makes me very curious as to what’s happening. I have to read this book. One of my favorite hymns we sing in church is “Where Could I Go”! Thank you for entering me in the giveaway! I’m enjoying being able to participate in the Trust Chronicles!!
barbmaci61(at)yahoo(dot)com
Good afternoon, Barbara!
So fun seeing your comment pop up and to hear that you’re looking forward to reading the book! I hope the story might bless you in some way. Yes, Cassie’s letter is a little sad. There is a bitter-sweetness to it all, but one that makes the journey all the more sweet as it continues on down the path where God has good things in store for all 🙂
Cassie’s softening heart, her growth toward selflessness… it’s such a bittersweet journey. You did an incredible job weaving it, to where I could imagine the title of the book applying as much to her as to Lonnie and Gideon!
A favorite hymn of mine? “How Great Thou Art.” One of my favorite memories is singing it in a treehouse of sorts in London with a friend of mine. We sat on a wooden bridge between two trees, way up in the sky, looking at acres of beauty around us in Kew Gardens. It’s a memory forever-cemented in my mind with the soundtrack of that song.
Amanda,
Just love seeing you pop in here! Cassie’s journey really is bittersweet. Beginning in a very selfish moment, Cassie learning to open her hands and let go of the things she’d fought for is such a part of her journey. I like to imagine that God has the most wonderful blessings in store for her 🙂
I LOVE that hymn. I can just hear it in my head right now and WOW…what a special memory! I could just imagine what a beautiful moment that was!
I LOVE this letter. I loved getting to know Cassie in the second book and I agree with the others…first we want her to just go away and then we cheer her on as she matures and sees the consequences of her actions! Enjoyed seeing a little into her heart. One of my favorite hymns is “It Is Well With My Soul” Sing it all the time!
Patiently waiting for “My Hope Is Found”!!
Hi Melissa!
So happy to see you here! It is so encouraging to know that despite all the trouble that Cassie caused in Though My Heart is Torn, that you were able to cheer for her in the end. That was my greatest hope for her! I think it’s something we can often relate to, those growing pains of the heart that we all experience. I adore that hymn too. It’s so fun hearing everyone’s favorites! And I am so, so glad that you’re looking forward to My Hope is Found! 🙂
What a beautiful post & accompanying giveaway! I am so eager to read both of their stories.
Thank you for the chance to win!
Beth
Beth,
I’m so glad to hear it! Thank you SO very much for being here and for your sweet comment. I hope you’re having a great day!
Oh, Cassie. My heart breaks for you. What an awful position to be in.
My favorite hymns are probably Come Thou Fount and Amazing Grace, but recently my church has been doing Before the Throne of God Above, and I’ve fallen in love with it, too. There’s no way I could choose just one!
Oh, Karen, bless your heart. Mine own was aching as I wrote Cassie’s story. Good things are in store for her …thanks to God’s goodness and her continual heart change 🙂 Those are two of my favorites as well and then Before the Throne of God Above just sort of came in that scene of Though My Heart is Torn and it was sort of like the two belonged together. I just love it, and you are so right, it’s way too hard to choose just one!
I think for me a favorite Hymn would have to be “My Father’s World.” Love the letter and the giveaway!
Liz, thank you for sharing! That hymn sounds so familiar, I’m going to go look it up. SO happy you are here for the letter and giveaway!
I loved both of these books. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read them quickly because they were both so good, or read them slowly to make them last….so I read them twice…and will read them again soon.
Tara, if you could but see the smile you just gave me 😀 What fun! It just does my heart good to hear how you’ve enjoyed the first two books in the series. Thank you for reading them. You are a blessing!!
What a heart wrenching letter! Makes me want to continue the journey with these people. I own “Be Still My Soul”, and look forward to the next book.
Martha,
I’m so touched to hear that you want to continue the journey. Delighted that you’ve read Be Still My Soul and hope Though My Heart is Torn will make you feel at home with Lonnie and Gideon once more!
I am excited to read your books. I’ve never read any and so excited to find a new author. This book sounds wonderful. Thanks for sharing it.
Thrilled that you’re excited to read the books, Shirley! It’s so fun to get to meet you!
My favourite hymn is “Amazing Grace”, it always brings me to tears. The book sounds wonderful, I’d love to be entered to win!
Marie, what a wonderful hymn that is. Such a powerful message in that song. Thanks for stopping in and entering! So wonderful to have you here. 🙂
A beautiful letter indeed! (Sniff, Sniff)
Oh yes, there are a couple of hymns that are dear to me, Great is Thy Faithfulness and When I Survey the Wondrous Cross. Amazing Grace is right up there too!
Would love to win the gift basket.
Blessings!
Judy B
Judy,
It means so much to know Cassie’s letter touched you. And thank you for sharing some of your favorite hymns! Those are both so wonderful and some that I grew up singing with my own family. Thrilled that you stopped in for the giveaway. Thank you!
Thank you for this opportunity. I have not yet read the first book, so I was alittle lost in this Lester’s understanding. But, I can tell that it is the writing of a person in the process of ‘brokenness’….a concept I can understand. his ways are mysterious and His thoughts are so very often not anywhere near our own. Forgiveness; difficult in all aspects. I would be so proud to win a book from you, and most likely, would prefer the first one. Thank you again!
Bonnie,
Just enjoying your comment so much and what you shared. Thank you for taking the time to write. It is so true, how our thoughts and God’s thoughts can be so different at times. Coming to that place of surrender can be often difficult. I know it’s been that way in seasons of my life many times! I will definitely get you Be Still My Soul if your name is drawn. Starting from the beginning is truly the best way to enjoy the series. Thanks so much for being here!
Sorry for my typo’s…..this iPad decides what my spelling should look like sometimes….and my eyes have some difficulty with small print. My Daddy nicknamed me .bonnie-reader. when I was just a young child. I can remember my Dick and Jane books from the first grade. I woild adore getting acquainted with you through your books. Thank you for your kind reply.
Bonnie, I am the queen of typos! I love that nickname “Bonnie-reader” what a fun memory!
I so enjoyed reading this blog. It has been a blessing, and this is the second day. Your character Cassie has inspired me to want to read your book. I love that time period too.
Thank you so much, Margie. It’s such a pleasure to have you here and just honored that you feel inspired to read the story. I so hope you enjoy it!
I am curious to know how all this will be resolved; hopefully it will be in book 3?
“In the Garden” is a hymn that has always been special to me. I remember singing it at church when I was a child. I always liked the image of Christ walking and talking with me in a garden, perhaps since I enjoyed working with my grandma in her flower garden. I still enjoy working with flowers.
Thanks for this fun week of giveaways and letters from great books!
Good evening, Pam! Yes, much to come in book 3…the story that’s just around the corner! 🙂 It’s been so neat to hear of some hymns that I’ve yet to learn and this is one of them. I look forward to looking it up! Thank you for your sweet comment and for taking the time to read Cassie’s letter. So blessed by your visit!
Loved both books! Cannot wait for the next one!
Thanks a ton, Shari! I’m so glad to hear it!
What a beautiful, broken, heart-squeezing letter! I felt the same way reading about Leah’s sorrow in her marriage to Jacob. I think her hope must have felt painful and fruitless at times…at least until she put it in God. One of those beautiful lessons that blooms from the ashes, I think. At any rate, I was reminded of this:
“I walked a mile with Pleasure;
She chatted all the way;
But left me none the wiser
For all she had to say.
I walked a mile with Sorrow;
And ne’er a word said she;
But, oh! The things I learned from her,
When Sorrow walked with me.”
― Robert Browning Hamilton
Oh! I also love “How Great Thou Art.” Who could resist that moment when the melody soars into praise of God’s greatness? =)
April,
What a lovely comment this is. I enjoyed every word! So thankful to have you stop by my blog and for this chance to chat. 🙂 That’s so neat to hear how the story reminds you of the story of Jacob and Leah. The heartache and bitter-sweetness of it all…but throughout, God is always at work with His mighty plan, isn’t He?
What a beautiful and powerful poem this is. Thank you for sharing! Such a vivid picture it paints for the reader. Just moving. And your hymn is one of my favorites as well. There is something so timeless about hymns–such a pure form of praise. Blessed to have you hear and doubly blessed by your comment. Thank you!
This looks like so much fun. Can’t wait to be inspired by the beautiful lessons on these pages.
Thanks, Kris! I’m so happy you are joining us! 🙂
My favorite hymn is Amazing Grace
A beautiful one, Jan. Thanks for sharing!
This letter leaves me curious to discover what caused Cassie to desire revenge and how they got into such a heart-wrenching mess. I look forward to reading both the first and second books. God bless!
Julie, it’s so neat to hear how it sparks your curiosity as to how Cassie got into this heart-wrenching mess. I’m so glad you’re looking forward to reading the books. Thanks for stopping by!
I am looking forward to reading this book.I love reading.Thanks for sharing such a beautiful post.jackie_tessnair@yahoo.com
Always a joy to get to meet another lover of books. So happy to see you here, Jackie!
I loved reading this letter. I can’t wait to read the third book! 🙂 Thanks for writing!
Hi Ardra!! *waving* I’m so excited for you to read the 3rd book and thanks for being such a sweet encouragement!
Haven’t read either of your books, Joanne, but will certainly be doing so – loved the angst, emotion, & suspense of Cassie’s letter!
I love hymns & would have a problem picking a favorite one – however, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” really speaks to me because it is a reminder that even during those years when I had turned my back on God – he had not turned his back on me, loved me, & was patiently waiting for me to come back to him. After reading Cassie’s letter – sounds like she needs to know that also.
Thanks for the neat giveaway opportunity!
bonnieroof60@yahoo.com
Welcome, Bonnie! It’s such a joy to see you here. Just blessed to hear that you’re looking forward to reading the books.
Oh, Great Is Thy Faithfulness is such a beautiful hymn, so comforting in any season, just a reminder that the Lord is ALWAYS there. And yes, a lesson most definitely in store for Cassie. Thank you for sharing!
I would so love to win this! it fits my personality to a “T” I will share that one of my favorite hymns is On Jordons Stormy Banks I Stand…. I can just picture it 🙂
Oh, Michelle, delighted to hear the connection you had to this. So happy you are here and thank you for sharing that hymn. One I’m not familiar with and now have the joy of looking it up. Thank you!!
Oh this just makes me even more excited to read this book! Sounds great!
Shari, so glad to hear it. I so hope you enjoy the book! Thanks for being here!
Awesome idea! Thanks for the giveaway! My favorite hymn is “Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus.”
Thank you, Anna! It’s been so fun to collaborate with these great ladies. 🙂 Thank you for sharing one of your favorites. It’s a keeper!!
The Potter’s Hand is a song that I remember growing up to, and one that will probably live in my heart forever. Thank you Joanne for this chance to see deeper into the heart of Cassie. I loved your books, and especially love how your books took such daring turns! But Cassie was definitely a character I wanted to dislike, so much, but something about her pulls at your heart strings, yet you don’t know what it could be. You really know how to pull a reader into the heart of your characters. I’ve already read the books, so I really just wanted to say thank you for such a great read, and I can’t wait for the next book in your series.
Charissa,
What a joy it was to see your comment. I’m delighted that you enjoyed the first two books and that through it all, Cassie’s character touched your heart. That means so much to me! She was a fun character to work with and such a fun challenge to write her story. I’m so happy you’re looking forward to My Hope is Found! (psst…I’m posting the cover on Tuesday and I can hardly wait) 😀 Thank you for being here!!
This was wonderful…a real blessing to read & makes me intrigued to go out & pick up the books!! =D
Thanks so much, Meghan! So glad you are here and if you get the chance to read Lonnie and Gideon (and Cassie’s!) 🙂 story, I so hope you enjoy it!
Wow. Now *that* was a powerful letter. Whew. That’s a lot of guilt that Cassie is dealing with. I have read and enjoyed the first book, “Be Still My Soul”. I’m very much so looking forward to reading this one!
I think one of my favorite hymns is called “Pentecostal Power”.
“Lord, send the old-time power, the Pentecostal power!
Thy floodgates of blessing, on us throw open wide!
Lord, send the old-time power, the Pentecostal power!
That sinners be converted and Thy Name glorified!”
Ahhh…listening to it refreshes my soul. 🙂
Welcome, Amanda!
So happy to see you here. Thank you for sharing your favorite hymn! I can just hear it 🙂 Thrilled that you enjoyed Be Still My Soul and that you are looking forward to reading Though My Heart is Torn. I hope you enjoy the rest of the journey! Thanks so much for your comment.
I would so enjoy winning this.
Blessings
joeym11@frontier.com
SO glad to hear, it Diana!
Oh how wonderful….my favorite him is It is well with my soul…what a story and such a reminder to us daily to be content in God’s love…would love to win!! truckredford(at)gmail(dot)com
Welcome, Eliza! That is one of my favorite’s too! So happy you stopped by for Cassie’s letter and giveaway. 🙂
I am intrigued by this letter. My favotite hymn is “It is Well with My Soul” I love the melody and the message. No matter what else in going on in my life, I am at peace with my God.
I’m so glad to hear it, Carrie and this is such a great hymn! I love how often it’s been mentioned. One of my absolute favorites, too. Happy you are here!
Wow! this sounds wonderful. I haven’t read either of them, and am super intriqued!
Melanie
melanieinoh2003 at yahoo.com
Melanie, thank you! So happy to know you are intrigued. 🙂 I hope you have a great day!
The Old Rugged Cross, Amazing Grace, Sweet Hour Of Prayer, In the Garden, oh, I could go on and on!
wfnren(at)aol(dot)com
Oh, Wendy, I can just hear the Old Rugged Cross in my head right now–my mom sang it so often! Those are great ones! There are so many good ones, aren’t there? 🙂
There are so many hymns I love, but It Is Well With My Soul comes to mind today. Thanks for the chance to win a prize. I really like your books. vjameson1 [at] netzero [dot] net.
There really, are so many! Happy you are here Vickie and it’s so fun to hear that we share a favorite hymn! Thanks for being here!
Sounds like such a great, book! 🙂 can’t wait to read it!
Blessed assurance, has always been one of my favourite hymns. Every time I sing it or listen to it, it’s as if I’m flying on wings feeling so light so full of Love an assured that whatever is going on, it to shall pass.
I’m so glad to hear it, Margaret! If you get the chance, I truly hope you enjoy the books! Blessed Assurance is such a wonderful hymn and I just love hearing what it means to you.
Well, Joanne…you sure know how to leave a reader hanging! 🙂
Cassie’s story sounds intriguing!
Oh, Bonnie, you make me smile 🙂 Glad to know the story piqued your interest! I’m so happy you are here!
Hymns are so important to me… “there is a quiet place, far from the rapid pace, where God can soothe my troubled mind…”; Words from a hymn that I sang with a group in college, that I haven’t heard since that time in my life… words that are stamped on my heart.
Oh, Abbie, I can just feel how they are stamped on your heart. What a beautiful story and a beautiful line from that hymn. They truly are so important. Such an amazing way to worship the Lord.
This giveaway looks so gorgeous and authentic. Please enter me!
I’m so glad to hear it, Esther, thanks! You are entered! 🙂
Reading that letter really makes me want to read the book, even though I haven’t read the first.
Rachel– that means a lot. I hope you get a chance to read the story! I hope you have a great day!
How lovely! Hoping to read the entire series before the year is out 🙂
So happy to see you here, Micaela! And just thrilled that you hope to read the series. Thanks! 🙂
Happy to stop by any time 🙂 I must say again, I loved reading the letter. I’m a writer too, and I have tried to get that kind of feeling in my writing–especially the book I’m currently working on–but I haven’t quite succeeded. Someday, Lord willing, I will 🙂
I have the first one in my TBR pile, I need to get to it so I can read this one! Thanks for the giveaway
Good afternoon, Robyn! Thrilled that you have Be Still My Soul in your TBR! I hope you enjoy it!
Joanne, so good to know you through your profile on the Blogger. I am glad to stop by your blog and The Trust Chrokicles of dated 14th May 2013. It is a great contribution writers in strengthening the raith of readers. The 196 comments are expressive of the contribution you have made towards the book you have written. Well I hust want to introduce our ministry in the slums of Mumbai, India a city with great contrast where richest of rich and the poorest of poor live. Se have out reach for the poorest of poor in the slums of Mumbai and we serve them with the love of Crist to bring healing to the broken hearted and to give them new life, future,purpose and hope. We also encourage young people as well as adults to come on a short term missions trip to work with us. We would love to h ave you come and observe the life in the slums of Mumbai, I am sure you will be motivated to write one book dealing with the subject “Poverty” what is biblical perspective. Well I would love to hear from you.My email id is: dhwankhede(at)gmail(dot)com and my name is Diwakar Wankhede
Very nice to meet you, Diwaker. Best wishes on your ministry!
Joanne, I have bought and read the first two books of this series and can hardly wait for the third one to come out. I have been thinking of what a good movie this series would make. I would love to win! I hope you write many more books. I am so glad I happened to buy your first one. Keep up the good work and God bless you!
Doris Reedy
I live in the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia only a few miles from places listed in your books.
Doris Reedy
Doris,
It truly touches my heart to know that you’ve read and enjoyed the first two books in the series and that you’re looking forward to the third. Thank you for your sweet words! It’s so neat to know that you live in the Appalachian mountains of VA. WOW! What I wouldn’t give to come for a visit 😉