The Hope Jar (The Prayer Jars)

ByWanda E. Brunstetter

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Readers` Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
ahmed elwany
I've been looking forward to reading The Hope Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter since I first heard about it. I particularly found the blue jar filled with slips of paper containing thoughts, quotes, and prayers by an unknown author to be an interesting storyline.

I had mixed feelings about this book. I liked the overall concept of a mistaken identity and the jar. It was different from many of the Amish Fiction books out there and that is something that always stands out to me. That said, it didn't grip me the way most of Wanda's other books have.

I enjoyed the concept of the story and I'm excited to read the next one to see where Brunstetter takes the story. I didn't feel this story was Wanda's best. It lacked the depth that I have come to enjoy in her books.

*I received a free copy of this product to facilitate this post, however you, my readers, come first and all opinions are my own.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
beverly grostern
Wanda is one of my favorites among authors who write about the Amish way of life and the beautiful people who live it. But, I have to admit that it took a few chapters to really get into this latest novel of hers. Once I got to that point, though, it was very hard to put down. There is a lot going on, but it isn't difficult to keep up with the various storylines. The writing flows very smoothly. I feel by reading this book I learned a lot about loving others no matter what and also about forgiveness. I would recommend this book, but I will caution that the book does not wrap up the story at the end. There is a continuation coming out in February 2019. I am really looking forward to seeing what will happen to these characters that I have fell in love with. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
ashli
I really enjoyed the story, along with the bit of mystery and intrigue as Michelle digs deeper into the Amish culture. I kept wishing that she would just tell Willis and Mary Ruth her true identity, because it became clearly evident that she was ready to put down roots and put her less than ideal upbringing behind her. I’m still very curious about the Hope Jar and I hope that somewhere along the way we learn who authored the prayers in the jars. I’m also hopeful that both the true Sara, Lenore, and Brad find their own happily ever afters! I’m a little surprised that the book did not share much about the Amish beliefs of pacifism & forgiveness, especially since the storyline so clearly led the way, but we may hear more about that in the Forgiving Jar! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, and was not under any obligation to post a review.
An Order of Coffee and Tears: A Cozy Diner Mystery :: Swallow Me Whole: A Friends To Lovers Romance :: The Beekeeper's Promise :: A Woman's Journey from Christian Tradition to the Sacred Feminine :: A Secret History of Witches
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
chip cheek
The Hope Jar is an excellent read for newcomers to Amish fiction and young adult readers. Much in depth information pertaining to the Amish way of life is explained throughout this story of an older Amish couple and the deception a family imposter portrayed.

I was disappointed that the entire book was based on the lies and misrepresentation of a young woman who deceived the Lapps into thinking she was their granddaughter. The deception began somewhat accidentally, but continued for several months which became somewhat bothersome. I had hoped to see some resolution and reconciliation in this story. I assume that will come through in the sequel which will become available in several months. This isn't one of my favorite books by this author.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. All expressed opinions in this review are my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
laura margaret
I love the storylines of Wanda’s Amish Fiction stories. This is the second one I’ve read. The plot is very interesting and makes you want to keep reading to find out what will happen next. She also includes lots of information about the Amish, which I find very fascinating as I enjoy learning about their culture. The part I’ve noticed in her books is that the dialogue is often awkward and doesn’t flow the way normal conversation would. This makes for an odd reading experience. Characters often repeat the same things over and over or are stilted in their conversations with each other. This is my only criticism in the book though. Overall, I enjoyed reading this story and hope to continue to series. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
lmaysh
The Hope Jar is a different kind of Amish fiction. It tells the story of a young woman desperate to change her circumstances coming together with an Amish couple who want to love the granddaughter they hadn’t known they had. A mix-up occurs and allows the two to find each other for a few months that are life-changing for them both. The jar is discovered by the young woman and contains Bible verses, thoughts, and prayers. They encourage her to live a new life, but she isn’t sure how to do that. Two young men from two different backgrounds are interested in her. What will she do about it? How will she respond as she faces the lies she has told? Where is the real granddaughter?
The book shows so many interesting facets of relationships. The story is intriguing and leaves you guessing many times. It is the first in a series and will make you wish for the next one. I enjoyed it and have already recommended it to others.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
lois loner
I have enjoyed Wanda Brunstetter’s novels and I did enjoy this one as well. But I must admit I was a tidbit disappointed. I thought the novel ended one chapter to soon. While a resolution of sorts took place I felt that the complete resolution did not come. It’s almost as though she wanted to stop early to force me to buy the next book in the series. I thought she missed a good teaching lesson on forgiveness by ending one chapter early. To make the long story short, a family thinks that one of the characters is their long-lost granddaughter and they love and nurture her, but they are being deceived. The book, while an enjoyable read, just didn't feel finished as there was lacking details and holes in the plot. Overall, however, if you are looking for a start to a good series this may be right up your alley. It just wasn't a book that I personally fell in love with.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
kristy harvey
The Hope Jar by Wanda Brunstetter
I have read many books by Mrs Wanda Brunstetter and she always has an interesting story to tell. Michelle Taylor’s story is no exception, very enjoyable. Michelle was hopeless but staying with the Amish family has given her hope. Her faith grew but also her trepidation at not telling the truth grew also. Mrs. Brunstetter shows us love and forgiveness in her characters.
The characters seem so real, from the grandparents to Michelle and even the boys that try to get her to ride with them. There are many twist and turns in this book and I will want to read the second book when it comes out.
If you like to read about the Amish (which I do) you will enjoy this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
maris
What a delightfully different book Wanda E. Brunstetter has crafted to begin her new series! I was immediately empathetic to the real Sara, Michelle who impersonated Sara, Ezekiel, Brad, and especially Mary Ruth and Willis, the grandparents. Each main character has difficulties to face and overcome, some caused by lies or poor choices, and some by really difficult situations that are not their fault.
I enjoyed keeping up with the real Sara’s life through the interspersed sections, even as Michelle learns, grows, and finally wants to improve and change. I hadn’t read any Amish books with this particular point of view and diverse communities. I was fascinated with the authentic characters in their unique circumstances.
I enthusiastically recommend reading The Hope Jar.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
ferina
In this first book of a promising new series, the author combines romance, mystery and mistaken identity to craft an inspiring novel. The characters are well drawn, and the setting is a familiar one for this author—Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Since one of the main characters finds herself unexpectedly part of an Amish community, the reader learns a great deal about the culture as she does. In fact the clash of cultures is as much a mainstay of this book as it has been in some of Brunstetter’s most popular novels. My only complaint is that the book leaves too many questions unanswered, a clever lead in to the next installment in the “Prayer Jars” series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
diane bernier
Wanda E Brunstetter has done it again!! In this new series, we return to the Amish countryside of Lancaster County with a young woman pretending to be an elderly Amish couple's long lost granddaughter that they weren't even aware of. In this guise, she finds love and caring people which is something she had never truly had before. But when the real granddaughter comes, she has to shed her masquerade and tell the truth, not just to the couple but to an Amish man who has fallen for her. Will they still accept her and forgive her deception? You must read for yourself to find out. I have been a long time fan of this author's, especially when I moved from one state to another and struggled with my faith during such a move. This book reminded me of the power of love and forgiveness. Please read this story. You won't regret it.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
casey giddens
I am ecstatic for this new series by Wanda Brunstetter. Her books are always hard to put down and enjoyable to read. This book is no exception!

An Amish couple, the Lapps, are expecting to meet their granddaughter, Sara. Instead, Michelle Taylor, who is down on her luck and trying to make things better, meets the Lapps at the train station. The Lapps believe that this is their granddaughter (and Michelle allows them to believe it). Soon, Michelle realizes her mistake but isn't sure how to fix it. Michelle finds a jar in the Lapps barn. This jar contains slips of paper that have prayers and Bible verses on them. She tries to figure out who wrote them (and why) and also reflects on her life and where she is headed. She seeks the advice of Ezekiel, an Amish man that she is falling for, only to find that he's upset that she hasn't been telling the truth. Michelle decides to leave the Lapps home before they find out that she truly isn't their granddaughter. Ezekiel finds where Michelle went to attempts to bring her back "home". Will Ezekiel and Michelle try to repair things between them? Will Michelle get to meet the real Sara? Will things be okay between Michelle and the Lapps? Hopefully book two will answer these questions.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. Opinions express in this review are completely my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
luthien
I enjoyed reading "The Hope Jar" and look forward to reading other books in the series. I wish it would have gone into more details about the jars that Michelle finds, but maybe the other books will give more details. I liked Mary Ruth and Willis and Ezekiel, but I didn't really connect with Michelle that well. I'm not really sure why, though. I think she did grow through the book and I'm glad for that. I was a little disappointed at the end of the book as I felt like it was a little unresolved. I hope to see more of Michelle and Ezekiel in the following books.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
nora mellingerjenkins
Another delightful story by author Wanda Brunstetter. The Hope Jar tells the tale of Michelle, a former foster kid running from an abusive boyfriend and searching for a place to belong. The book gives several interesting glimpses into the lives of the Amish, including a bit of history. The jar itself plays an important part in the story of sharing the hope of God’s word to this hurting young woman. This book is good for any reader, though there is one scene of domestic violence near the beginning that some younger readers may find disturbing. I enjoyed this book and am anticipating the next one as this story does end with a bit of a cliffhanger!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jonathan minila
Filled with deceit, lies, the guilt of knowing her lies are going to catch up with her, a little romance and some wonderful loving Amish grandparents made this a wonderful, oh so real to life story. Great characters and a story line that had me hoping for an outcome that would be good for everyone! "I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review." My review is voluntary.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kamila forson
--My thoughts. Michelle is escaping a life filled with what-ifs, so when she is trying to escape an abusive boyfriend, takes a bus to another city unknown to her, stumbles upon the Happs, whom are expecting the granddaughter they have never met, she doesn't tell the truth and goes to stay with them.

When she happens upon the different pieces of paper in jars, whether they be prayers or verses, the Lord begins to do a work in Michelle's heart.

There is a love triangle involved so that added a bit to the story. I could not wait to get my hands on this book and I was not disappointed. Heartwarming and also a book that makes you think what would you do as well!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
babita dubay
Wanda Brunstetter did an excellent job writing The Hope Jar. This story had me entranced from the beginning, and I was wondering how the real Sara would come into play after one lie than another from Michelle. The characters were all well written, and it was fun reading about places I've been to in Lancaster County - makes the story seem real. I enjoyed seeing all the farm things Michelle got involved in, and I can't wait to see what the mason jars are all about in this series. I also enjoyed all the details Wanda Brunstetter put into this book revolving around the Amish faith and lifestyle. One can learn a lot from reading this book. Now to wait for Book #2 in this series - The Forgiving Jar.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
julia tompkins
I always enjoy Wanda Brunstetter's books because they are easy to read, describe the mysterious Amish lifestyle, have a romance,and present Biblical values so practically. This book is no exception.You'll find a surprise photo on the front cover. I am intrigued how the Amish navigate the outside world near them, their own who want to try life on their own, and those who want to join them. Several themes stood out to me in this book: kindness, deception, lives run by rules, forgiveness and grace. I anticipate eagerly the next book of The Prayer Jar Series. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
donna pryer
I thought The hope Jar was an interesting story. I enjoyed stepping into the world of the Amish and learning more about their culture through the eyes of Michelle. I had trouble keeping my interest partway through but the story did pick up. The characters were interesting to get to know. I’m not sure who I liked best. I liked the message Wanda Brunstettler weaved through this story. The message of forgiveness, second chances and hope. I think readers can learn along with Michelle these important truths.

I recommend this book to my family and friends.

I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
patrycja polczyk
A unique Amish-English tale, with considerable detail about Amish life, customs and beliefs. This author has certainly done a thorough study of the Amish and presents it well and naturally as part of the overall story. Written in a practical style, this is a story with heart that shares how life’s unexpected challenges are not exclusive to one group or another, and one’s choices always have consequences and the truth is always the best choice no matter the consequences.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
peachy
Wanda Brunstetter is one of my all time favorite authors. She has been a staple in Amish Fiction. I was super excited to see a new series and a different type of writing from her. This book deals with real situations. Possible homelessness, abusive relationships, pretending to be someone you are not - but remembering where your faith is rooted. This book is packed full of hope. Wanda always writes her characters so well, that you feel like you know them. I cannot wait until the next book comes out.

I received this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, and Barbour publishing - all thoughts are my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
amy brobst
This book was the first in The Prayer Jars series. I really enjoyed the story of two young women, one a women from an unhappy home and an abusive relationship and the other raised by her formerly Amish mother and a step father.

As Michelle steps into the role of Sara, somewhat unplanned, her life fills with one lie after another as she keeps the "real" Sara from contacting her grandparents. It's a pretty interesting book and I will be looking forward to the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary vopy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jordan wells
What does "The Hope Jar" hold for Michelle, who is mistaken by Willis and Mary Ruth to be their granddaughter? They were at the bus station to pick up their granddaughter, whom they have never met. Michelle, who was fleeing from a bad relationship with no money, assumes Sara's identity and goes home with them. She enjoys their simple lifestyle and having a family. While there she finds a Jar in the barn full of notes. Will she be found out or will she choose to tell Willis and Mary Ruth who she really is? I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
debralee
The Hope Jar is an interesting tangle of an Amish couple who learn their daughter who turned "English" has died and they have a grown granddaughter. That granddaughter is a secondary character as the grandparents see a young lady with hair like their daughter's and assume she is the granddaughter! Michelle Taylor needs a place to stay and does not correct the Lapps who come to love her like a granddaughter! The primary and secondary characters are all well-written in this unusual Amish book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
dkkoppgmail com
I really enjoyed this Amish fiction book! It was my favorite from this author! I am looking forward to reading book two in this series!
The author does an excellent job with making her characters come to life! This is a very good book! You will really like it! The characters are very relatable and realistic.
* I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
beate
I enjoyed reading another great book by Wanda Brunstetter. I liked the mystery of Michelle taking on the identity of Sara. It made for a good plot. I also liked watching how Michelle gained a liking for the Amish way of life. I’m excited to read book 2 & follow the journey of both Michelle & Sara. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing & was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
julia gordon
I have loved everything I have read by Wanda Brunstetter and this book is no exception. I really liked all the characters both the Amish ones and the Englishers. There is a major deception that happens and is continued throughout the whole book till the very end when the deceptor comes clean. I eagerly look forward to reading the next book in the series to see what happens with all the characters.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
corey scherrer
Willis & Mary Ruth Lapp were so excited to meet the granddaughter that they didn't know they had. And they are thoroughly enjoying spending time with her. But she is not who they think she is. As she spends more time with them, 'Sarah' reallizes she can't keep her secret forever. But how will they take it when they find it out. A page-turning book, I did not want it to end. And when it did, what a cliff-hanger! Can't wait for the sequel! Not the usual 'Amish romance". Much better!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
darcy christ
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. A young lady get mistaken for another young lady and does not clear up the mistake for months. Good story line but the book did not have a ending, just left you hanging. I do not like books that do not end but you have to wait till the next book comes out to find out what happened.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
azam
A brand new series by Wanda. This book is different than Wanda's other books and I definitely had trouble getting into it, but kept pushing through and enjoyed it. It did bring out the truth of what some people will do for the good of themselves, but also shows what can happen if you confess wrongdoing. Overall, I would recommend this book.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
darlene rae
Yes, I'm conflicted about this book. In some ways, the book felt shallow with characters that are presented as is; I didn't feel like they were developed. And, the situations seemed simplistic. But, there is something about her writing that keeps me engaged with the characters and the story. It was okay and pleasant, but not compelling.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
suzze tiernan
Disclaimer: "I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
Because I've read a lot of Amish fiction, "The Hope Jar" didn't capture my interest until I was about three-quarters of the way through it. Much of the book read like an introduction to the Amish way of life and Amish traditions...things of which I was already familiar.
I did enjoy the ending and I do look forward to Book Two in the series to find out what happens in each of the characters' lives. I wish it hadn't taken so many pages for me to want to know more about them..
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
ferni
I really enjoyed this very sweet novel. I liked the characters and setting.
I enjoyed the writing style. I like Amish fiction and this one is no exception.
I look forward to reading more by this author. I received this book from Celebrate
Lit for free. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
memo saad
This is a mixed clean Amish and Englisher type story that really pulled me in fast. I received this book for free and I voluntarily chose to review it. I've given it a 5* rating. It stirred up all kinds of feelings but it centers on the remarkable things about forgiveness. It really touched my heart.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
evelyn hadden
If you like Wanda Brunstetter books you’ll like this new one. It started slow for me, took a while to get fully engaged, but when I turned the last page I find I am anxious to read Book 2.
I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing with no obligation to post s positive review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
leva
Mom really enjoyed this this book. The only thing she was upset about is the book left her hanging at the end. I now have to remember to get her the 2nd book in the series when it comes out in Jan 2019. This was the first time she has read a Wanda Brunstetter book but I can tell you it will NOT be the last. I have been instructed to find her some more Wanda Brunstetter novels. I get lots of romance novels for mom. Some she likes and some she does not. She loves to read and this book was no exception. I know when she loves a book because she will read it in a day or two. This book was read in a day. In addition, I am looking of more of Wanda Brunstetter novels. The Hope Jar is the first book in a new series called “The Prayer Jars”.

I never tell about the book itself as I DO NOT want to spoil anything for another reader. Mom may give me a synopsis about the book but I never talk about the storyline. Hate it when someone tells me something about the story that occurs 3/4 the way thru a book or a reviewer tells me they do finally get married. I don’t want you spoiling my reading and I do not want to spoil your reading when it comes to a good book. I figure it you are wanting to know a little about the story, you can read the synopsis that the store and the author gives you. My reviews are wether an 80 year mom likes, loves or dislikes the read and is the book worth reading yourself.

This book will defiantly be a recommend to Mom’s Beauty Shop Book Group. She is looking forward to the next Wanda Brunstetter book I get her.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
gidget
This story gave a good glimpse into the Amish lifestyle. Michelle's dilemmas showed how simple kindness goes a long way toward healing someone who has seen the rougher side that life can be. As well as learning how to forgive for your own sake not the person(s) who wronged you.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
joanna basile
I am falling in love with Wanda E. Brunsetetters books! I fell in love with the characters from the very beginning. I would recommend this to anyone! Michelle was lost and alone till by a mistake the Lapps came into her life. She learned the meaning of love and being a part of a family! I hated for the book to end! I'm looking forward for the next book in the series!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
lise laplante
When Michelle becomes someone else to escape her violent boyfriend and lonely life, she discovers some things about herself. Will she be able to keep up the charade? This book is about the Amish, love, redemption and forgiveness. An enjoyable read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
chira teodora
Wanda Brunstetter did a wonderful job with this new series. Easy to read. Keeps you interested. Michelle Taylor was once homeless and hopeless. Michelle is impersonating Sara Murphy and being the long lost granddaughter to the Lapps. Michelle has come to love her new Amish friends and even consider the idea of romance among them. Finding a blue jar in the barn that was filled with slips of paper with handwritten thoughts, quotes, and prayers by an unknown author encourages Michelle budding faith but she also finds herself convicted . How can she tell the truth without hurting the ones she truest loves.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ali mills
What a wonderful new series by Wanda Brunstetter. I was amazed by the characters in this book and wondered how Michelle could keep her real identity hidden for so long. Amazing story of grace and hope. I look forward to the continuing story with book 2.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
glorisa
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review." I loved the book. I would recommend it to anyone. I can’t wait till her 2nd book comes out.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
terry corallo
Awesome read, loved every minute of this book. Don't know anything about the Amish way of life but this was very interesting to learn of the amish world they live. I loved everything about Michelle and her now boyfriend Ezekiel. Can't wait for next in series. Thumbs up Wanda ?❤
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ramya ramani
In this new series written by a very talented author , she gives us a gripping and emotional story about hope, forgiveness and acceptance. Have you ever been so desperate to be accepted by someone, that you would do anything? Michelle is in a bad relationship that has become dangerous and needs to find a safe place to go. I felt her fears as her boyfriend threatened her and hurt her. I wanted her to run as fast and as far away as she could.

When Michelle gets off the bus after leaving her abusive boyfriend, she is suddenly mistaken for Sara, the granddaughter of Willis and Mary Ruth Lapp. I thought it was very intriguing that a young woman would take advantage of this sweet elderly couple. Michelle has a chance to start a new life and grabs hold of her false identity. It's lucky for her that Willis and Mary Ruth have never seen their granddaughter before. Maybe she can pull this off and find a new home in Amish country.

I adored Willis and Mary Ruth. They were so excited to meet their granddaughter and hopefully find out what happened to their daughter who left home so long ago. Their broken hearts hopefully will start to mend as they get to know their granddaughter. There is of course one little catch to all this. At some point Sara, the real granddaughter will show up. How long can Michelle keep up this charade? I did feel a sense of relief from Michelle as she settles into her new life.

When a jar is found with scriptures and prayers, this to me was the turning point in the story. It opened up a broken heart and allowed the person to feel hope and love. Each time the jar was opened, a fresh sprinkle of redemption came over them. Wouldn't it be nice to find a hidden jar like that? You are at a place in your life where you see no hope, no way out and no one loves you. You are drawn to the jar and there inside is the hope and acceptance you have been looking for.

I loved Michelle the most because I could easily identify with her. I know what it is like to want a place to feel safe and loving people who care for you. Will she be changed as she continues to deceive the people who have opened their hearts and home to her? I loved how easily Michelle started to draw closer to Willis and Mary Ruth. They are true examples of people who love unconditionally. Will Michelle's secret be found out? Will Michelle find a way to open her heart to God? I was sad for the story to end. There were several questions left unanswered and I hope the author addresses it in another book . The author does an amazing job of allowing the characters to deal with hard issues like domestic abuse and forgiveness. I liked that these subjects were handled with grace and showed readers that there is always hope.

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy , and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sean whelan
A book that held my interest. I recommend this book. Sara Murray mother passed away and while going through her things she discovers

a letter her mother wrote to her telling her about her grandparents she had never met. Deciding to write them a letter telling who she is and telling them she would like to come visit them and when she would like to come. She doesn't know they are Amish.

Meanwhile Michelle Taylor is in a bad situation -- money wise and relationship wise. She decides to leave to get away from her abusive boyfriend .. she packs up her few belongs and heads to bus station. Meanwhile Mary Ruth Lapp receives letter from Sara and learns t heir daughter has passed. She responds and they make arrangements to met at bus station. Michelle gets off bus and is mistaken for Sara yet desperate to hide she goes along with the Lapps. As time goes on things get more difficult for Michelle -- she is safe and loved now but feels guilty for the deception . While exploring her surrounds she finds a jar with notes hid notes and thoughts written on them.

This doesn't help her guilt. Michelle must keep her secret and intersects the letters between Sara and her grandparents .

A book with mystery, love and faith and forgiveness and one to read to find out all that happens.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sherrie
This book was the first in The Prayer Jars series. I really enjoyed the story of two young women, one a women from an unhappy home and an abusive relationship and the other raised by her formerly Amish mother and a step father.

As Michelle steps into the role of Sara, somewhat unplanned, her life fills with one lie after another as she keeps the "real" Sara from contacting her grandparents. It's a pretty interesting book and I will be looking forward to the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary vopy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
fye haslonglastname
The Hope Jar by Wanda Brunstetter is the first book in her newest series The Prayer Jars. From the very beginning, Brunstetter draws you into this fictional (but very real) world that she has created and you find yourself experiencing life alongside the characters. The Hope Jar is a story that is filled with hardships, trials, and tribulations, but where forgiveness, redeeming love, and hope are found.

I have read and loved many books by this author, but I have to say that The Hope Jar might just be my new favorite! So, if you enjoy books set in the Amish world, then The Hope Jar is a book that you will undoubtedly enjoy!

* I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing and was not required to leave a review.
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
darlene wright
   This book was really sweet but very slow. It didn't really grab me and hold my attention. But it focused a lot on giving second chances, forgiveness and showing that even if you're not related by blood, you can still be family. It handled the whole deception part really good too. I loved the little notes Michelle found in the jar, they added a nice aspect to the story. The book also felt like it went in circles quite a bit, with the same thought pattern. It wasn't till the very end that Michelle started to grow. So while I didn't particularly enjoy this one I do think if you're looking for a cute, sweet read you'd like it. And the ending! Makes you eager to read the next one. 

I received this book free from the publisher for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. 
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
louisa
When the grandparents go to pick pick up the granddaughter they never meet at the bus stop, they pick up a girl who is running from her past and poses as their granddaughter. When the secret is revealed their faith is put to the test. This story is full of twists and turns and you will enjoy every minute of it. Thank you #NetGalley and #Barbour for the complimentary copy of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
katie l
*thank you to Netgalley and to the publishers for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review*

After having read a book previously by Wanda, I was a bit Leary jumping back in but I must say, THE HOPE JAR has turned around my opinion of her! This book is fun and sweet, just as is expect an Amish fiction to be. I am excited to see where the next two books take us!
Please RateThe Hope Jar (The Prayer Jars)
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