I took a “gamble” on a new author, and I was NOT disappointed. If you’ve never read anything by Karen Witemeyer, then don’t wait a second longer, because you are truly missing out.
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Before this, I had never read a book by Karen Witemeyer and honestly, I had no idea what to expect! However, I was not expecting perfection in so many pages! Humor, drama, and constant entertainment meets heartwarming dialogue and character dynamics that took me back to a time, not so long ago, when life was a little bit simpler, but the stakes were quite a bit higher! Whatever good things you have heard about this book, I promise you, they’re all true!
From the beginning of the prologue (read the prologue, don’t be like fourteen year old me and skip it because you didn’t think prologues were important), I found myself completely attached to these characters. Maybe it was the fact that it was set on an orphan train that made me want to adopt them all and make them a part of my own family?
Evangeline was the perfect female lead. She is obviously different, sticks out from the crowd, and endures the scrutiny of many of the people who also live in the small town of Pecan Gap. Despite all of this, she does not let it define her, but rather rises above it all, embracing the uniqueness that God has given her, and showing others how to do the same!
Amid the romance and action, there was also a hint of mystery and suspense hidden in the book that made me keep turning the pages! I appreciated that this book had so many different aspects of stories and familiar arcs that I love – that’s why I think it would be perfect for anyone to read!
By the end of the story, the characters have overcome trust issues, deceit, grief, confidence and self-esteem problems, and even anger and grudges! Never has a book made me laugh out loud, cry oh-so-many tears, and still demonstrated important lessons about life and love all at the same time!

Oh how I loved this book!!!!!!!!!!!!! One of the many things I like about Karen's writing is she doesn't make us wait the entire book for the characters to fall in love and get together. That is one of my biggest pet peeves when reading. I am committed to the book and the characters and just want to see them together! I love that she gets them together earlier in her books and then the book is about their relationship and how everything works and the ups and downs!

Karen Witemeyer is one of my go-to authors when I'm looking for a book that will lift my spirits and tug on my heartstrings. While More Than Meets the Eye is not her strongest work, it still kept me intrigued and entertained. My favorite part of this story was the very beginning, when Evangeline's "Patchwork Family" comes together on the orphan train. I immediately felt connected to Evangeline and I enjoyed following her journey as the novel progressed. I didn't feel as connected with our hero, Logan, nor did I feel much chemistry between him and Evangeline. I felt that the strongest characters in this story were the side characters, especially Seth and Eva. I will continue reading the series to find out more about what happens to them and to Evangeline's other brother, Zach.

Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes- one blue and the other brown - Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgements, and Eva has two - Set and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers.

Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in Pecan Gap, Texas to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?

My favorite genre to read is historical Christian romance and this book by Karen Witemeyer fits perfectly into that category. Its a very heartwarming story and was a quick and easy read. Evangeline has had so much heartache in her life, but her outlook is refreshing. There is a strong sense of family, but this book goes to show that family is not always blood. Sometimes it is the people you choose.

Thank you so much to Bethany House Publishing for providing me with a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Patchwork families are some of my favorite stories to read. This book carried that expectation well. The familial love imprinted upon every page made my heart sing. The Hamilton siblings were amazing and came alive from page one. It was fun following their journey in this first Patchwork Family book. The gut-wrenching opening made me cry, so I knew I was in for a keeper. I love how deafness and heterochromia (having two different eye colors) played significant roles with both characterization and plot. The mystery was creative and unpredictable to me, which kept the chapters zooming. The themes of overcoming one’s past and creating for one’s family a brighter future were spot-on and delivered beautifully.

As a bonus, it was fun to see Bonham, Texas, featured in the opening scene. I used to live mere miles away from that town and would visit there quite often as it was the closest town with a grocery store in the 1990s when I small. It’s always a delight to see real-life small towns show up in the pages of books.

Content: one expletive, one sexual phrase, saloons, gambling, suicide (off-page), alcohol

". . .a soul’s sore spots didn’t really disappear. They could be buried, defended, and denied, but until they were loved, they wreaked havoc with a person’s peace."

1879 Texas. Christian Historical. First in a new series. There were four orphans on a train that crashed, three escaped, forming their own family, taking care of each other, each with their own strengths. The girl, Eva, has two different color eyes which are off-putting to others, one of the reasons she hadn't been adopted. They struggle to find what they need to eat, with the oldest boy, Zach, taking on the responsibility. After it gets harder and harder he runs out of options, and gets a farm for them in an uncommon way, never expecting repercussions. Logan wants revenge and restitution for his family. When he searches out the person he believes responsible, he's surprised at what he finds. Interesting story of survival and love in an unconventional family whose bonds are tighter than many normal families. Throw in some mystery and danger. You won't be bored.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
#MoreThanMeetsTheEye #KarenWitemeyer #NetGalley

Karen Witemeyer's books are always enjoyable. she writes historical fiction that usually showcases her dry wit. I find her books to be delightful reads. More Than Words Can Say is no exception. Both Zach and Abby are well thought out characters. The plot is a take on marriage of convenience but written in a fresh manner. I did not realize that this was the second book in the series, but that was not a problem. now that I have finished this book I will go back and read More Than Meets The Eye to get the back story on Zach. So settle back with a cup of coffee and a sticky roll while you enjoy More Than Meets The Eye.

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

Such a fun book, it’s easily one I could read over and over...but isn’t that the case with many of Karen Witemeyers books!! I’ve read several multiple times!! this is such a great boo! I can't wait for more
I received a digital copy from netgalley for my honest review

After having loved Karen Witemeyer's previous series, and having both of the full length novels become new favorites, I was just a bit worried that More Than Meets the Eye would not meet my expectations. And perhaps in part because I was worried, it exceeded them and is now another new favorite.

With a main female lead whose sunny nature persists no matter the obstacles or attitudes, this is a bit of a grown up Pollyanna story but with greater depth of character. Evangeline Hamilton's effect on her adopted brothers, and on the hardness that Logan Fowler tries to maintain in his pursuit of the one he blames for his father's death, her dogged and determined good cheer is what lifts this story from the typical historical romance.

This is a novel that will delight the long time fan of Karen Witemeyer's writing, and would also be a wonderful introduction to her signature style of historical fiction that mixes adventure, faith, and fun. Highly recommended and I am anxiously waiting for the next Patchwork Family novel.

While I was approved for a NetGalley digital galley, this review refers to a finished copy I voluntarily received from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

More Than Meets the Eye was another A+ read from Karen Witemeyer. I loved the characters right away and the first scene made me really feel for the heroine.

The romance was great. I liked how he came there for revenge, not love, so a romance wasn't something for which he was looking. The brothers were awesome and I loved how protective they were of Eva.

All in all, More Than Meets the Eye was a wonderful read and I definitely recommend it. I loved the story and cannot wait to read the next book when it releases.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

This book was amusing and fun! I loved seeing someone who isn't traditionally "beautiful" (especially back then) being represented.

Karen is a new author for me to read. She is a great story teller and her characters come alive. One with a lot of spunk and the other set on revenge. Good story to read if you are looking for a Christian fiction book

I really enjoy the writing of Karen Witemeyer. I find that she has a way with words and keeps her stories at a level that draws me in and I enjoy without all the stress. This story was another great one by her. The leading lady, all the sad things that she has had to face, it was quite a ride riding it with her. She has bullies in her life that make fun of her looks. She’s left without family at such a young age and yet God provides for her. It’s beautiful to watch how He does that and I’m convinced of their amazing family dynamic. The warnings of unforgiveness and revenge run deep in this book. Much to be learned in letting go and letting God. The romance was wonderful!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Loved this latest one from Karen Witemeyer! I always know she'll draw me into a fantastic story and wrap me up in wonderful historical details and characters that make me laugh, cry, and sigh. I fell in love with the Hamilton family and am hoping that Zach's story will follow!

Once again, Ms. Witemeyer created a fun, laugh out loud, romantic historical read filled with beautifully chiseled characters and a heart warming story line. I laughed, I turned the pages long into the night and I am ready for more! These characters will fill your heart with warmth, hope, and love as you follow their journey. 4 stars for sure for this talented author and her tenderly written novel!

More Than Meets the Eye by Karen Witemeyer is book 1 in the Patchwork Family series. I have read other books by this author and I was excited to read this new series. This book is pretty different from the author's other novels, but I still enjoyed it. It has quite a lot of tragedy but also the opportunity for redemption. I think those who love historical fiction (and particularly those set in Texas) will love this book. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

Since being orphaned at a young age, Evangeline has known only rejection from the adults in her life. Her mismatched eyes, one brown and one blue, are a source of fear and superstition for both the adults and most of the other children in her life. The only one she can count on to love and care for her is her older brother, Hamilton. Traveling West on the orphan train, Hamilton has refused any family that only wanted him. As they travel to the final stop on the train's journey, they learn that their caretakers plan to forcibly separate them so that Hamilton can be placed. As Hamilton enlists the aid of the other two unplaced boys in remaining unplaced, the train derails, leaving Eva with Zacharias and Seth - one unplaced because he's too mean, and the other unplaced because of his health. The three band together, taking on the last name of Hamilton to honor the brother who protected Eva to the end.

Fast forward 15 years, the Hamiltons now live on a farm, and are doing well. They have learned to control Seth's asthma, and Eva has learned to hide her eyes, or have her "brothers" with her when they can't be hidden. She runs free on the land surrounding their home with her best friend, Hezekiah, a wild boar she raised from infancy. When she meets their newest neighbor, Logan, she is fascinated to find another person who doesn't look at her eyes with revulsion. As she gets to know him, her heart sees a man of courage and honor, but when she learns Logan's secrets, will her heart be able to survive the truths she discovers?

Logan Fowler seeks justice for the death of his father. His target? Zacharias Hamilton, the man who cheated at poker winning the deed to his farm from his father. When he fails to find Hamilton at any of the gaming tables in the area, and learns that, as far as the players in the area know, Hamilton no longer plays, he buys the neighboring farm. He hopes to learn all he can about his nemesis from the sister, but when her description of Zach as her protector, provider, and all-around good guy doesn't match what he believes to be true, he begins to take stock. Could his perception of the situation have been wrong all these years?

The more time Eva and Logan spend together, the more their hearts become intertwined. As they work together to solve a mystery, will they be able to get past what divides them, to the hearts that would join them?

Karen Witemeyer has a gift for adding humor to her stories that lightens even the heaviest topics. I loved how Evie, Zach and Seth formed a family unit, even though none of them were related, and they all worked together for the betterment of all. I also loved how Eva managed to stay open and curious, even though most of the town people rejected her. She was willing to offer friendship when she had been continually knocked back in the past.

For me, the fact that this book has Karen Witemeyer's name on the author line was enough to recommend it. Her books always have the ability to suck me in and make me care about the characters, and More Than Meets the Eye did that from the beginning scene. I absolutely recommend this!

This is the first book in the Patchwork family series, what a great place to start. This book is full of family, heartache, mystery, forgiveness, romance and more. I look forward to more from this series. I hope we continue to follow the Hamilton family.

Evangeline Hamilton is a loving, caring opinionated girl who has already over come so much. Logan Fowler is out for more than he can imagine, with revenge on his heart, he is surprised by everything Eva is about.

I love the twist and turns, the sparks between Logan and Eva and the relationship between Eva and her brothers. I can't wait for book three to come out to find out what else lies in store for this patchwork family.

Evangeline, Zach, and Seth Hamilton are an unlikely family. In fact, they aren’t a blood family. They created themselves from the ruins of a long-ago orphan train. Now the family farm in the small town of Pecan Gap, Texas. They’ve built a life for themselves.

Logan Fowler grew up in Peacan Gap, but left after his father lost their farm in a card game and killed himself. He’s back for revenge—to win his farm back from Zach Hamilton. Evie Hamilton is the perfect accessory to his plan … until he starts having feelings for her.

Evangeline is a remarkable character. She has different coloured eyes—one brown, one bright blue—and has been ostracised by the townspeople. As a result, she spends most of her free time roaming the countryside in the company of her pet, a tamed feral pig. That’s unique—it’s the first book I’ve read where the heroine has a pet pig. She’s adventurous and brave and caring, and has somehow managed to develop a strong Christian faith despite

Logan is the first person who hasn’t commented on Evie’s eyes, and that makes him special. He’s also a great character, a man with a goal who will stop at nothing to achieve that goal. But is it the right goal? Evie doesn’t think so.

Logan is clearly the hero, but Zach and Seth are noble characters as well. Zach has sacrificed his own dreams to raise and support Evie and Seth. Seth has his own health issues which make life difficult. But they’re a great team.

I think I’ve read all Karen Witemeyer’s novels. I love her writing—her characters, her humour, and the way she seamlessly weaves in the Christian faith. Recommended for all lovers of Christian historical romance, especially westerns.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

Anticipating a straight-forward redemption romance with two lead characters, More Than Meets The Eye by Karen Witemeyer delivers so much more. Our leading lady, Evangeline is a ray of joy throughout the story without feeling false or pretentious. She lives out Christian principles with love and compassion! And I love her adorable pig Hezzy!

The other characters are, similarly, beautifully written, complex and, together, they set off an adventure which changes them all. Not one of their lives has been easy, nor is their trouble easily overcome but they are prepared to wrestle for peace. The dialogue is witty and there were many laughs en route. I thoroughly enjoyed this easy and uplifting read. Only one character’s story is left unfinished, I do hope there will be a sequel! It’s a five out of five on the en-JOY-ment scale!