Wildflowers from Winter

I can hardly believe this was Katie’s first novel. I could connect with it on so many levels as we currently live in a somewhat rural area where most of my fiance’s childhood friends would never dare to return to because of all the painful childhood memories. The main character in this book, Bethany, grew up in a trailer park, struggling with suicide and the feeling that God and pretty much everyone else had abandoned her. Even her childhood preacher lacked compassion, attributing things that happened to her father to sinful behaviors. It really is no wonder she wanted to have nothing to do with the faith.

She finds solace in her career as an architect until her grandfather passes away and she inherits 500 acres of farmland and a handsome farmhand. She’s difficult and he is just as stubborn in his own ways, building tension for the inevitable attraction that builds between them. She also comes back into contact with her former best friend who is coping with the loss of her husband.

It is heavy, grim, and emotional. It is also proof that there is light at the end of the dark tunnel.

Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!