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Her Heart's Desire - (A Season in Pinecraft) by Shelley Shepard Gray
$9.71 sale price when purchased online
$16.99 list price
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About this item
Highlights
- What happens when we allow our pasts to define our futures?Mary Margaret Miller needs an escape from her small Amish community.
- About the Author: Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 books.
- 304 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Amish & Mennonite
- Series Name: A Season in Pinecraft
Description
About the Book
A wallflower in her Amish community, Mary Margaret hopes a trip will offer her a chance to come out of her shell. When a chance meeting brings new friends and a gentle young man into her life, she imagines a whole new life in Florida. But will it all disappear once vacation ends?Book Synopsis
What happens when we allow our pasts to define our futures?Mary Margaret Miller needs an escape from her small Amish community. She boards a bus, all alone, for a vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Meeting Betsy and Lilly on the way, she's amazed to find two kindred spirits. They become fast friends and determine to have the best two weeks of their lives. For Mary, it starts when she meets Jayson Raber, a handsome and charming carpenter.
Jayson is taken with Mary from the get-go, but he has responsibilities back home in Kentucky--including a girl he's supposed to marry. And when someone from Mary's past shows up in Pinecraft, it seems like her perfect vacation is ruined. But that's nothing compared to what's coming when she realizes what Jayson has been hiding . . .
"Gray skillfully sketches a sympathetic cast of characters who will endear themselves to readers. This heartwarming series has potential."--Publishers Weekly
"Focused on the values of friendship and forgiveness, it is a lighthearted read that takes on real-world challenges such as loneliness, sacrificing dreams, and knowing one's worth."--Booklist
From the Back Cover
What happens when we allow our pasts to define our futures?Mary Margaret Miller needs an escape from her small Amish community. She boards a bus, all alone, for a vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Meeting Betsy and Lilly on the way, she's amazed to find two kindred spirits. They become fast friends and determine to have the best two weeks of their lives. For Mary, it starts when she meets Jayson Raber, a handsome and charming carpenter.
Jayson is taken with Mary from the get-go, but he has responsibilities back home in Kentucky--including a girl he's supposed to marry. And when someone from Mary's past shows up in Pinecraft, it seems like her perfect vacation is ruined. But that's nothing compared to what's coming when she realizes what Jayson has been hiding . . .
"A tender journey that explores friendship, heartbreak, second chances, forgiveness, and finding true love. Fans of Amish fiction will be hooked on page one!"--Amy Clipston, bestselling author of Building a Future
"Full of endearing characters with insecurities and trust issues, each one lifted to a better place through hope, faith, and, of course, love. This entertaining tale of repaired friendships and kindled romances will delight readers."--Suzanne Woods Fisher, bestselling author of A Season on the Wind
About the Author
Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 books. Two-time winner of the HOLT Medallion and a Carol Award finalist, Gray lives in Colorado, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.Dimensions (Overall): 8.49 Inches (H) x 5.58 Inches (W) x .84 Inches (D)
Weight: .6 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 304
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Amish & Mennonite
Series Title: A Season in Pinecraft
Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Company
Format: Paperback
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Language: English
Street Date: January 3, 2023
TCIN: 87235794
UPC: 9780800741679
Item Number (DPCI): 247-40-8310
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 0.84 inches length x 5.58 inches width x 8.49 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.6 pounds
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Related Categories
4.4 out of 5 stars with 10 reviews
100% would recommend
10 recommendations
Great Amish Read
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Heather - 2 years ago
If Shelley Shepard Gray writes it I will definitely be reading it. This was a short Amish fiction romance story that I got wrapped up in from the beginning. I thought the story was entertaining and I always enjoy a good Amish book. I would definitely recommend this book.
Welcome to Pinecraft!
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Fitzysmom - 2 years ago
I have a friend that lived in Pinecraft for a time. I loved hearing about this idyllic place from her so when I realized that Her Heart's Desire is set in Pinecraft I knew I wanted to read it. I'm so glad I did because it was just as delightful as I had hoped. The story centers around Mary Margaret Miller who has set out on a little getaway to Pinecraft. She's hoping for a bit of a respite from her miserable life at home. Mary Margaret is a bit of an outcast and because of that has become quite lonely. On the bus ride to Pinecraft she connects with two other Amish girls and they become fast friends. For Mary Margaret this trip feels like a little slice of heaven. She's made new friends, she's found a guy she's interested in and he seems to return the interest. And there's a beach involved. What could possibly go wrong? One of the main reasons that I enjoy books by Shelley Shepard Gray is that they are relatable. I'm not Amish but I know what it feels like to be ostracized. I know what it feels like to have your bubble burst. I think these feelings are pretty common to all of us at some point in our lives. Her Heart's Desire is a beautiful story of facing what life throws at you and coming out stronger with your faith intact. I highly recommend it. I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
A must read! Add to your TBR
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Angela M Reviews - 2 years ago
I want to travel to Pinecraft, Florida. Whenever an Amish Fiction author uses Pinecraft as the location in their story, I long to take a vacation there. Wallflowers. That’s what Mary Margaret calls the group of four, meant to be friends. Wallflowers, the un-popular, the ones who long for friendship and a sense of belonging. I know this feeling all too well. I enjoy Amish Fiction because they are a “feel good” story to me, and I know that the happy ending is in sight. Shelley Shepard Gray did not disappoint with “Her Heart’s Desire,” and I hope more books will come. I want to know what happens to Betsy and Lilly. This book is an excellent example of why we cannot outrun our problems. Instead, we must face them. I received an advanced copy of this book, and the opinions in this review are my own.
Fantastic Amish Fiction
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Sue - 2 years ago
Mary Margaret Miller is off on an adventure for a much-needed break. She is headed to Pinecraft, Florida to leave her Amish lifestyle temporarily behind for a much needed break. She meets Betty and Lily on the bus trip. She’s amazed at their Amish similarities and lifestyles. They become fast friends and decide they will have quite the adventure being away from the Amish rules and laws. All of a sudden enter a handsome carpenter Jayson Raber. Unexpectedly Mary Margaret’s long time hometown rival Betsy shows up in Pinecraft. She is suddenly smitten with Michael the young Amish gentleman who works very hard since his parents have died, and he lives with his aunt and uncle. The adventure of five individuals have while in Pinecraft make up the tale of Her Heart’s Desire. It is a little difficult to follow with the two different romances. However, I did find the book very interesting, and was eager to read the story. Drift off into another world as you read Her Heart’s Desire. Learn more about the Amish lifestyle, including some of their jargon. I was given a free copy from the publisher, for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I would recommend Her Heart’s Desire.
A touching tale!
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 2 years ago
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.
A Once in a Life-time Chance!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Tickmenot - 2 years ago
Three Amish girls unknown to each other, Mary, Betsy and Lilly, make a trip alone to Pinecraft, Florida. As they leave the cold winter weather behind, they each hope to leave behind their past--at least for the next two weeks in the Sunshine State. Mary has been bullied since she was a child. Because Betsy experienced serious asthma attacks growing up, her family smothers her with protection. Lilly wonders what was wrong with her that her natural parents gave her up to be adopted. After meeting on the bus, the three become fast-friends, and are delighted to discover they are all staying at the same cute bed and breakfast. Many of their long-held wishes are coming true with this trip--including girlfriends to confide in, and do thing with. They enjoy new sights and sounds while riding around in over-sized trikes. Just when everything seems perfect, Esther, one of the worst bullies in Mary's life arrives, and is staying at the same place she is. Has Esther followed Mary to ruin any chance of happiness she may find in Florida? As the girls see their time coming to an end, they each feel they have made big strides for the good in their lives. But what will happen when they go home? Will they fall back into the life-styles that have made them miserable? Will their family's let them change? To make it worse, Mary's special friend told her a secret he has kept from her. We she go home devastated by it? This charming book will make you wish you could go on vacation with these girls. This feel-good story will leave you with a smile on your face, and the smell of ocean air in your nose! There really is a Pinecraft, Florida, that many Amish vacation at yearly. I highly recommend this five-star book. It will be enjoyed by all, but especially by fans of friendships, and vacationing. Thank you, Revell Publishing, for providing Tickmenot with a book copy for the purpose of review, opinions are my own.
ok
3 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
grammy - 2 years ago
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.
Enjoyable book
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Sunnie Reviews - 2 years ago
What wasn't to enjoy about this wonderful book? I loved the Pinecraft vacation theme and the story of 4 friends sharing and caring for each other. The book talks of forgiveness, trusting that God is leading us in the direction we should follow and making important life decisions. The storyline tells of second chances and accepting change. I really enjoyed the book and hope to read the next book in the series. The book is about coming to be your true self and moving beyond past mistakes. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher. All thoughts are my own.
Feel Good Experience
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Lucy Reynolds - 2 years ago
A great beginning to the new, A Season in Pinecraft series. I throughly enjoyed getting to know Mary and all her new friends as she travels to Pinecraft for a much needed change of scenery. I would love to actually visit there after reading this as the descriptions of the people and places drew me in immediately. I loved that even though the girls see themselves as wallflowers they can see positive things in each other and find acceptance in their friendship. It is refreshing to see how they find God has a good plan for them. It is a story of forgiveness, acceptance, and not settling for less when God gives us good and perfect gifts. A sweet story that leaves you with that feel good experience. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. Quickly add to your must read list for the New Year. I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Sweet Romance that is A Quick Read
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
VickleaW - 2 years ago
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.”