Review of “Pockets of Promise” by Laurie Stroup Smith

Publisher’s Description:

Mariah Mast’s best friend Josiah Weaver has concentrated his efforts on providing for their future together, but on her eighteenth birthday, Mariah finds herself edging away from Josiah and her faith. An encounter with police, a misunderstanding of intentions, and hurt feelings compound her confusion. Her grandmother sends her to stay with an aunt in Pinecraft and gives her a pocket quilt with handwritten messages tucked inside.

Thrilled to have her help at the bed and breakfast, Aunt Birdie introduces Mariah to a group of new friends, including Luke Yoder, a young Amish man who works for his father’s construction company. Spending time with him opens up a new world for Mariah. Her grandmother’s words of wisdom offer guidance as she makes a decision that will have lasting consequences for those she loves. Will she find fulfillment in Florida? Or does her heart belong in Holmes County?

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My Review:

This sweet and captivating story is the debut Amish novel for author Laurie Stroup Smith.  The main character, Mariah, is a young Amish woman in her “rumspringa” season of life. I liked how the author portrayed Mariah as both caring and considerate, but undecided as to whether to remain in her community and be baptized into the Amish church. I enjoyed following Mariah’s journey as she discovered her heart’s true desires. Her grandmother’s letters served as guidance for Mariah, and included some wise advice for all of us.  

I’m quite impressed with this author’s writing style, and will look forward to reading her next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

About the Author:

About Laurie Stroup Smith

While writing Amish fiction and contemporary romance, Laurie Stroup Smith strives to connect readers with friends and family through her stories while inspiring her audience to serve others. Her tagline is Inspiring Service Through Story. As a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, she was named a Finalist in the 2017 First Impressions Contest and a Semi-Finalist in the 2018 and 2019 Genesis Contests. 

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. For a week or two each summer, they enjoy discovering new adventures along the western coast of Michigan. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter