A Merry Heart

A Merry Heart ended up to be a pleasant surprise indeed. While the book was fairly enjoyable, there were times that it became repetitive. Thankfully the last third of the book was remarkable enough that it moved me to tears and the end left me with much to think about, easily putting this book on my favorites shelf.

I had never read an Amish story before because I thought they'd be boring, but this was really good. I want to read more of this author and also Beverly Lewis.

I had a lovely long insightful review of this all typed up when somehow I knocked against the keyboard and deleted it. I don't have the heart to recreat it. Suffice it to say that as a non reader of Christian fiction, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this novel of one woman's crisis of faith. The characterization of the heroine, Miriam, was good and in depth. The other characters, not so in depth. The book takes place over a long period of time with just a short scene or so to illustrate what is happening in her life instead of a play by play narrative. I did keep complusively turning pages urging her to stop being such a downer and see the love of the good man in front of her. I would have liked a bit more characterization of him. show more He seemed a bit too cardboard. Still, I might try others by the author. show less

Miriam Stoltzfus has been dumped by the man she expected to marry and it has turned her into a spinster with a cold heart who teaches school.

Amos Hilty is in love with Miriam and has been since they were children. Miriam has always loved William so Amos turned to another woman, married, and had one child, Mary Ellen. Now Amos, a widower, once again has eyes for Miriam, but she thinks he wants her only as a mother to his daughter. When an English reporter comes to town, Amos finds that he has competition for Miriam's heart.

Miriam's niece has a tragic accident at the school house that leaves her in a wheelchair. the accident not only changes Rebecca's life Miriam's as well.

I felt myself pulling for Miriam to open her eyes and listen to show more God's plan for her life. It's a good read but I did get frustrated when Miriam took so long to listen. show less

Quick read; cute story

I'm not going to go into the plot because that has been done. I just want to give my opinion. The cover intrigued me, so I picked it up and finished in a few hours. Not the 'great american novel' but it IS a good story and a quick read. Great for those pool sides when you can't give the book your total concentration. The characters are warm and fuzzy, and the story has just enough twists and unpredictability to be interesting! Some have compared this author to Barbara Lewis. Since I've only read one of each, I don't have much basis to compare, but I actually enjoyed this book more than Ms. Lewis's.

While it was very predictable (as many others said), I did like the style and I have a soft spot for Amish novels, not sure why. I would have appreciated a little more depth on the characters, but yet I did like the book, and will probably give the 2nd in the series a try. THe fact that it was on audiobook probably does make a difference.

The first time I ever heard of this series was when I saw it in a little library outside a neighbor's house where you exchange books- you turn one in, and you take one instead. Of course, I chose this book. I am so glad I read this! It is one of the most amazing stories I've ever read. It kept me in suspense and kept me turning the pages, eager to find out what happens next. I give this book five stars.