The Hope Jar by Wanda Brunstetter (The Prayer Jars series Book 1)

I really enjoy unique Amish Fiction that stands out. I was excited to get a copy of Wanda Brunstetter's brand new book which looked like it was going to take me for a wild buggy ride.  

From the back:  A Brand-New 3-Book Series from New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.

What happens when making an elderly Amish couple very happy means going along with a lie that gets bigger by the day?

Michelle Taylor is not who her new family in Lancaster County believes her to be. The Lapps were looking for their long-lost granddaughter when they met Michelle and she assumed the identity of Sara Murray. Once homeless and hopeless, Michelle has come to love her new Amish friends and even considers the idea of romance among them.

Finding an old blue jar in the barn that is filled with slips of paper containing thoughts, quotes, and prayers by an unknown author becomes a boost to Michelle’s budding faith— but also convicting. How can she tell the truth without hurting the ones she has truly come to love?

Facing homelessness and an abusive boyfriend this story is a case of mistaken identity.  Michelle longs for a place to belong and people to love and care about her so she slips into a stolen identity.  As time goes on will Michelle confess?  What happens if the real Sara Murray shows up?

I truly enjoyed this story.   Wanda Brunstetter does a great job weaving the twists and turns you come to expect from her stories and characters you end up really relating to.  I spent a lot of time wondering if Michelle would decide to do the right thing or if she was going to get away with her deceit. 

I found the Lapps really wonderful but thought they were a bit too trusting and jumped to conclusions about Michelle.  I found the ending a bit rushed and wanted more.  I can't wait for the second book to get answers to some hanging questions! 

All in all this is a great read and definitely a breath of fresh air in the Amish genre.  So pick up your copy of The Hope Jar and hold on to your bonnet for the wild ride!  Happy Reading! 

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book 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. 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.*