Pockets of Peace (The Pocket Quilt, #3) by Laurie Stroup Smith

ABOUT THE BOOK

Five years after an unexpected pregnancy forces Lydia Byler to make difficult decisions, she is offered a job helping Birdie Miller manage her bed and breakfast in Pinecraft. Single, shunned, and desperate for a fresh start, Lydia agrees to relocate and reunites with the handsome Wesley Hochstetler.

Wesley has only ever had eyes for Lydia. Though their paths have crossed many times over the years, they never discussed the possibility of spending forever together. When she moves to town, he believes it’s God’s will for them to pursue a romantic relationship. But he doesn’t know about her pregnancy or the adoption that followed.

Inspired by a letter from the child’s adoptive parents, Lydia sews a pocket quilt for the boy. She learns he and his family will soon visit Pinecraft, and the burden of her secret becomes too much to bear. The truth comes to light, straining her bond with Wesley. 

MY THOUGHTS.....

I've truly enjoyed the Pocket Quilt series and this book is a wonderful way to wrap it up. Lydia Byler has been mentioned in the first two books and now, we get to see her own story come to fruition. Author Laurie Stroup Smith shows Lydia's struggle to accept traumas from her past and her efforts to create a new future. It appears that Wesley Hochstetler wants to be a part of it, but a shadow hangs over their relationship. Will the secret that Lydia has carried for six years change what might have been? Has she waited too long to reveal her past?

This is such a special conclusion for this series! I enjoyed being reunited with characters from the previous books and returning once again to Birdie's bed and breakfast in Pinecraft. This special lady has been such a blessing in all three stories, and she's especially helpful to Lydia. The subject of abuse and unwed pregnancy is handled in a tasteful, sensitive manner and the author shows the wonderful service that is offered by women's shelters and planned pregnancy centers. Lydia's decision to volunteer helps in her own healing process and also shines the spotlight on the constant need for volunteers.

I wasn't familiar with pocket quilts before I read Smith's books and I especially appreciate the letters that are placed in the pocket quilt that Lydia is making for a special person. In one letter she writes "Always remember: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." 

Pockets of Peace is a memorable story of hope and forgiveness, and it's a joy to see Lydia's journey to peace and acceptance. I recommend this book to all who enjoy Amish romance and Christian fiction.

I voluntarily accepted a digital copy from the author. There was no expectation of a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

While writing Amish fiction and contemporary romance, Laurie Stroup Smith strives to inspire readers to serve others. She was named a Finalist in the 2017 ACFW First Impressions Contest and a Semi-Finalist in the 2018 and 2019 ACFW Genesis Contests. She has been interviewed by Loveland Magazine and has been a guest on the Buggy Talk and Fierce Calling podcasts.

Before writing, Laurie earned a bachelor’s degree in both athletic training and exercise science and later obtained her master’s degree in health promotion and education. She now writes full time and lives with her husband and their two daughters in Cincinnati. Connect with Laurie on her    Website      Facebook     Instagram   Pinterest  Twitter     Goodreads  

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