Her Heart's Desire was my first book to read by Shelley Shepard Gray, and it was everything I expected, plus a bit more in an Amish Romance.

I loved how Mary and her new friends were united in faith, despite being from different States and Amish orders. I was also surprised to learn that not every Amish order is in the north (Pennsylvania).

It was nice to see the grace and mercy Mary offered to Esther when she saw Esther was determined to change. Much of this book is about forgiveness, grace and mercy—something Mary had to extend more than once.

With a sprinkle of vacation fun, good friendships and new romances, this series promises to be a good one. And where can I find Nancy's boarding house? I really want to stay there!

If you enjoy Amish romances, you will probably love Her Heart's Desire.

I received a review copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

I enjoyed this Amish-themed book. It was not your normal Amish love story, it is not set in the Amish community.

The main characters are fairly well-developed. The story flowed well. But, it is not very deep and it is not very believable. But, for a quick read, something light, this is a good book.

It was given to me through the Revell Reads blogger program. The thoughts are my own and freely given. Since it was through Revell I expected it to be a bit more of a Christian book. It seemed that the characters thought it was "from God" way too often.

I would recommend this book to someone looking for a light, quick read. The editing was very well done for an ARC.

Her Heart's Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray is a sweet novel about finding not only love, but also friendship. Mary is a young lady who goes on a trip to Pinecraft, Florida by herself. Along the way, she meets Betsy and Lily and they become fast friends. Mary has always been a wallflower and a loner, due in large part to Esther and her friends, who treated her horribly and ostracized her. When Esther shows up in Pinecraft at the very same inn where Mary is staying, Mary is sure her beautiful vacation and new friendships are at an end. What she discovers, however, is a contrite Esther who wants to make amends. And Betsy and Lily are supportive of Mary and help her work through old hurts. Add in Jason, a young man who finds himself falling for Mary, and you get a splash of romance too. However, Jason has a secret and it just may break Mary's heart.
A fun book and very enjoyable, as are all of Gray's books. I believe it is a standalone, but I would read more about the girls if I could!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Her Heart's Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray begins her series A Season in Pinecraft with a whimsical story of friendships, bullying, independence, and discovering the age-old struggles of life and growing up. The focus of Her Heart's Desire is Mary Margaret Miller, who is a young Amish woman who longs for a fresh start in life. Mary feels trapped by her past embarrassments and hurts in her small Amish community. As Mary travels among a group of strangers to a long-anticipated vacation in Florida, she finds herself quickly developing dear friendships with two young women, Betsy and Lilly. As the three girls grow closer to one another and explore their freedom in Florida, they find that they all have similar regrets, hurts, and guilt from their pasts that need to be overcome. Along with the wonderful friendships that Mary develops, she also is thrilled when she meets the handsome Jayson Raber. Mary and Jayson seem to be taken with each other, but both soon discover that their responsibilities, decisions, and pasts may prevent their friendship from developing further. Will the young people discover that they can overcome their pasts? Can Mary and her friends discover healing from their hurts? Can Mary and her former enemy and bully reconcile? What will happen to Mary and Jayson's hearts? Can they discover how to overcome the many obstacles between them? Read Her Heart's Desire to find out for yourself!

I appreciated Ms. Gray's style of writing, as she approached each individual in the book with varying perspectives, leading the reader to gain a better understanding of each character as they grew and developed throughout the book. Another aspect of Ms. Gray's writing that I appreciated was her simple and yet profound life lessons that she illustrated with her main characters as they learned to forgive, grow, and challenge themselves. Ms. Gray gave her readers a sweet taste of a beautiful vacation spot in Florida, bringing the beauty of nature to her reader's attention. I also appreciated how Ms. Gray brought the universal struggles of life that many face down to a practical example in the young coming-of-age Amish and non-Amish young adults. I appreciated the simplicity and wholesomeness of Ms. Gray's writings as well as her ability to weave an intriguing and engaging story. Although I greatly appreciated the excellent storytelling that Ms. Gray has mastered, Her Heart's Desire does seem to be written at a younger age level, perhaps written more for teenagers, rather than adults. I appreciated the honest and realistic interactions between Mary and Esther, as well as the other girls. My favorite secondary character was Nancy, the innkeeper as she mothered and cared for all of her guests, but especially the young Amish girls. Overall, a well-written, wholesome story with excellent themes of faith, family, forgiveness, love, and strength. Happy readings!

Disclaimer: Revell graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

I did like this story overall it has some good lessons in it. However I did find that this book is more for a younger (teenage maybe early 20's) reader. If you have ever been bullied or been a bully this book hits it home how it affects both sides of the coin. I liked all the characters, however some of my favorite was Joy she was a pistol and so feisty she said it like she saw it and held nothing back for sure one of my favorites. I also really like Nancy she felt more like a surrogate mom to all those that came into her in she was wise and willing to give advice if needed and willing to help even in the little things she overall was my favorite. I found that this book was a clean read and over all would be suitable for all ages.

I always look forward to the author's newest releases coming out. This one is the start to a new series, and we are once again back in Pinecraft, which I would love to visit someday. It sounds so peaceful.
This is A Season in Pinecraft, #1.
The author is such a master storyteller. no matter the genre she writes, I especially enjoy her Amish stories. Her stories are so compelling with such a nice faith message in them. I always feel so much better after reading her books, such a positive boost they give me.
I was moved by the characters, how they examined who they were and worked on improving their character.
I am looking forward to the next delightful book in this series.

Pub Date 03 Jan 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Her Heart’s Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray is the debut of A Season in Pinecraft series. I love that the author set this book in Pinecraft, Florida. I enjoyed reading Her Heart’s Desire. I like the author’s friendly writing style. I was quickly drawn into story. I enjoyed meeting Mary, Lilly, Betsy, and Edith. We also get to know Jayson and Michael. Mary, Lilly, Edith, Betsy, and Jayson traveled from their respective hometowns to Pinecraft. They each needed a break from their lives. Jayson has an important decision to make. This is his last chance at freedom before going down a path that will allow him to fulfill his familial duty, but it will not bring him joy. Mary has been unhappy for some time. The vacation is her opportunity to get away from the people who have taunted her and made her life miserable. A storm in Georgia forces the bus to stop at a motel for the night. Betsy, Mary, and Lilly share a room. They discover that they are the wallflowers in their communities. The three ladies quickly become friends and look forward to enjoying their vacation together. Mary enjoys her first day in Pinecraft and then she receives a phone call that changes everything. Mary learns that Edith is coming to Pinecraft and will be staying at the same inn. Edith is one of the people Mary wished to get away from. It seems that God has a different plan for Mary’s vacation. The characters are realistic and relatable thanks to their flaws. I could relate to Mary and how she felt. It is terrible to be picked on and bullied. Each of the characters need to go on a journey of self-reflection. They need to examine their past and decide what type of future they desire. I can tell that the author visited Pinecraft and Siesta Key Beach from her descriptions. Her word imagery took me back to this beautiful beach. Her Heart’s Desire is about forgiveness, friendship, family, romance, and faith. The characters need to be open to God’s plan for their lives. They need to listen to His guiding voice. Her Heart’s Desire is a touching story. There are good life lessons in this book. I am looking to the next A Season in Pinecraft novel. Her Heart’s Desire is a moving story with a sudden storm, fast friends, a tricycle trip, a discouraging call, a smiling innkeeper, and finding forgiveness.

Feeling like a wallflower, Mary Margaret knows she wants change. Boarding the bus for Pinecraft, she is about to experience life like she has never done before. Meeting Betsy and Lilly, Mary just knows that this vacation is going to be terrific. They decide to spend their time together exploring and enjoying life. However, when the past comes back to haunt Mary in the form of bully, Emily, will her life ever be different? But after finding forgiveness in her heart, Emily and Mary find they have more in common then they thought. I love how the author introduces us to Jayson and Michael. Finding love in such innocent ways was refreshing. But will Mary and Emily find their happily ever after? I love forward to the next story and finding out how each is doing. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

This is one of the most beautifully told stories I have read in a long time Shelly Shepard Gray brought this book together beautifully! I can't wait to read more about these very best friends! Thank you so much Shelly Shepard Gray for being the writer you are!

Her Hearts Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray
"Her Heart's Desire" is the first book I've read by this author. What a well written novel.

The characters were written so great I would've been happy spending two weeks in Florida with them. These three girl were all struggling with something different, but in some instances they were so much alike. "Her Heart's Desire" is about forgiving other's and also forgiving yourself in the process. It's about decisions about your future and rather you keep your obligations back home, which you wish you never agreed too. The storyline will pull you in at the beginning and was very hard to put down.

I would recommend this book to others through social media and retail stores.

I rate this book a 5 out of 5

I received this complimentary copy from the publisher for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone.

A beautiful story of heartbreak, forgiveness, and second chances. Mary Margaret Miller seeks escape from her Amish life in Ohio to sunny Pinecraft, Florida. Struggling with being bullied and isolated her entire life, Mary is hopeful to get a fresh start even for just a few weeks. She quickly finds new friends and a love.

Enjoying her vacation beyond her wildest dreams, Mary is confronted with her biggest bully, Esther, arriving in Pinecraft. She feels as if her world is spinning out of control both with her new friendships, new freedom, and new feelings of love. Mary is faced with choosing to face the difficult situation or run and hide.

This story proves forgiveness is a powerful thing for everyone involved either directly or indirectly. It is a story we can all gleam from.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Welcome to Pinecraft!!!! I felt like I was transported back to Siesta Key. It’s one of my favorite places to vacation.
Mary Margaret Miller decides to go on vacation by herself to get out of a rut in her hometown. She meets Lily and Betsy, two other wallflowers and quickly befriends them. The girls are living their best life, enjoying everything Pinecraft has to offer. Then Esther, a girl from Mary’s past, shows up at the hotel. Mary has to navigate her town bully and a potential suitor.
I love the relationship with Mary and her friends. Seeing her friend from a “wallflower” to a confident young woman was enjoyable. However, it bothered me how quickly and easily Mary was able to not only forgive Esther but also allow her to join her friend group. Maybe I’m not as nice of a person as Mary.
I’m looking forward to the other books in the series! Many thanks to the author, Revell Publishing and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Her Heart’s Desire is a heartwarming introduction to a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray. In this story, there are two couples who end up finding their happily ever afters, yet this tale is more than simply their love stories. The four young women who end up vacationing in Pinecraft learn a lot about themselves, the value of true friendships, forgiveness, trusting in God, and taking steps toward changing their lives for the better.

I liked the way the relationships developed between the two sets of characters. The romances were sweet and developed with a gentle innocence between the young men and women. Yet, it was not simply smooth sailing, especially for Mary and Jayson, as a fairly big roadblock to their happiness came to light. I look forward to seeing these characters again in future stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This is Shelley's first book in the new Season in Pinecraft series. Three Amish wallflower girls meet and become good friends on their bus trip to Pinecraft, FL. Mary, Lily's, and Betsy's friendship continues to grow as they vacation there. Enter Esther, Mary's lifetime nemesis, as well as several Amish young men. Will Mary and Esther's relationship improve enough that they might actually become friends, too? And what about these three handsome young Amish men? Will any of the girls develop friendships with them? Or maybe even more? Read this enjoyable book to find out the answers. It releases Jan 3rd.

I enjoyed reading this book about forgiveness and new friendships. It did seem to me, though, that the author really rushed the ending--almost like she was nearing her page count limit and had to tie up the loose ends.

I received a complimentary e-publication of this book from #NetGalley. All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.

#HerHeartsDesire #NetGalley

It took a bus trip to Pinecraft, Florida and a storm for three young Amish women to meet and go on to form a lasting bond. Sadly, they shared one constant in their lives and that was that they lived in worlds where they were separate from their peers. They had not been popular. But, for the next two weeks they would relax and enjoy themselves. When Mary meets Jayson, a young Amish man also on vacation, she feels hopeful that perhaps their mutual attraction might lead to something more. Jayson's personal life is complicated as Mary soon learns. To further complicate matters, Mary's arch enemy Esther travels to Pinecraft for a vacation while Mary is there. To say this casts a huge black cloud on Mary's vacation is an understatement. Is there any way to get through the next two weeks unscathed?

The author brings to readers a touching story about second chances and hope. Bullying, its consequences and forgiveness are important themes in this well told story. Expertly handled are the large cast of characters who are vividly brought to life. Their multiple points of view are skillfully managed as are their back stories which give depth to the narrative. Packed with emotion and faith, this story is well worth reading.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Vacation time for a lot of the Amish seems to take place in Pinecraft, FL.
Mary Margaret Miller boards a bus, alone, as she feels she needs a break from her community. On the way, she meets Betsy and Lilly. They all instantly bond and make plans for a great time for the next two weeks.

Mary meets Jayson Raber, who is there from Kentucky for a vacation, and sparks instantly fly between them. Their pasts come to light and time will tell how things progress. Loneliness, responsibilities, and forgiveness are just some of the topics touched on in this book.

This was a very enjoyable book that you will not want to put down until you read the entire book.

Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.

Mary Margaret Miller is a virtual outcast in her small Amish community, through no fault of her own. She has been a target for the "mean girls" since she was 11. Now 25, she's tired of being a hermit and having no friends, and she's especially tired of being whispered about every time she shows her face in town. She plans a trip to Pinecraft in Florida, hoping that there she can be the person she feels like inside, not the persecuted person she is at home. Things quickly change for the better when she meets Becky and Lilly on the bus trip south. They, too, are leaving communities that have kept them from flying. As they get to know each other, they become each other's support system but what happens when one of Mary's tormentors follows her to Florida? Will she make her new friends choose? After tasting the joy of friendship, can she go back to being as alone as she was at home? Why did Esther have to follow her??

Jayson Raber has made frequent trips to Pinecraft from his Kentucky home, first with his parents, then after his mother's death, by himself. His best friend lives in Pinecraft and has been urging him to move there, but Jayson feels responsible for his little sister since his father's grief has made him neglect everything. He can't leave, can he? And what about the promise he made to his boss back home? That promise comes back to bite him when he meets - and falls hard for - Mary Margaret. Having found the heart he thought was dead, can he put his love aside to fulfill a promise he never should have made?

I liked so many things about this story. First, I liked that there were two love stories - Jayson & Mary and Michael & Esther. Second, I liked that the issues each of these four experienced were not issues that only the Amish could experience. Last, I really liked the characters. I believe this was the start of a series (it teases the next book at the end) so I'm looking forward to reading the next one with Becky's story.

Readers who love Amish romance will enjoy Her Heart's Desire. Shelley Shepard Gray is always a MUST READ for me, whether she's writing Amish or contemporary romance. This one ticks all the boxes.

Author Shelley Shepard Gray writes a book that will challenge your thinking about forgiveness. Is it to be given freely? Earned? This theme was a struggle throughout most of the book, making this a non-typical Amish story. Gray tackled hurt, betrayal, and unforgiveness head on. It definitely isn’t super sweet but quite true to life as we see everyone has issues to deal with in life.

I did struggle a bit with these young people; at times they felt childish. Yet it was fun to see them grow and come into their own while on vacation. Away from family and social expectations.

If you enjoy Amish fiction with reality then I highly recommend Her Heart’s Desire.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

I received an Advanced Reader copy from Netgalley for my honest review. This is my first novel by Shelley Shepard Gray. The women in the story become fast friends in a night, due to an ice storm while traveling on a bus. I would have liked a little more background information on why the women were going to Marigold Inn. Was it common knowledge that single Amish women would vacation here? Mary and Esther have a lot to forgive from their past. The four women are stronger together and willing to explore and have new adventures. It is hard to imagine letter writing instead of phone calls. The roles and expectations of women in a home are complex. I struggled with two of four finding true love within a week to two weeks. It must have been the Lord’s plan for them. This is a sweet romance, but also has depth to the importance of friends.

This is a quick and sweet romance with the Amish characters visiting a beach in Pinecraft, Florida. I was surprised by the setting and the boldness of the main character to leave her protected Amish community and travel by bus to Florida, but the surprise added to the story as Mary Margaret was joined by other like-minded Amish young women seeking respite from their lives and the troubles that they faced there. Mary finds her true desires in Florida and even has to face forgiving a former enemy who unexpectedly shows up there. I loved the themes of relationships, honesty and forgiveness. I especially enjoyed seeing how all of the conflict worked itself out in just the right way for the lovable characters. I was invested in the story and wanted everyone to get a happy ending, but the ending was not without some real twists along the way. My favorite characters were Jayson who is a responsible young man who feels the weight of taking care of his diabetic sister Joy and Michael, a young orphan who works hard to escape from his cruel aunt and uncle who make him feel worthless. My sympathy lay with these two young men who were courageous and determined as well as dedicated to doing the right thing regardless of the cost to themselves. This is a quick read that can easily be read in a few hours and thoroughly enjoyed!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Reads Blogger Program via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”