Topeka & Shawnee Co. Public Library discussion

I found the courage of the characters inspiring and the story enlightening in this historical novel. Geesje came to America from Holland to escape religious persecution. Anna feels like she must choose between her fiance and her quest for faith and for answers. Each woman shows great strength and each story has a lot to teach us. Until I heard Geesje's story about how her family was hounded by their neighbors, I didn't know that religious persecution had happened in Holland. I was startled to learn that those who separated from the state run church in Holland were persecuted, and that some of them came to America so that they could worship freely. I admired their bravery and I felt for Geesje every step of the way, as she endured the long ocean voyage She and her family tried to carve out a new community named Holland out of the Michigan wilderness. But it was the personal challenges that she faced that truly made her an engaging character, as separation and hard choices made finding her way to true love and happiness difficult. That personal journey is what connects her to Anna, a young woman from a high society family who comes to the resort near Holland to rest and think after her engagement is broken off. She wonders why she feels so drawn to the church she visited, why she has strange dreams and memories, and why her former fiance does not understand her need to ask questions about her past and about God. As she delves into the past, she learns to stand up for herself and I truly enjoyed watching her character grow, even as I wondered how the pieces of the puzzle would connect and tie her story to the Geesje's. I couldn't wait to get to the end of the story and have all my questions answered.
The characters in this book are asking some tough questions, as they face many heart wrenching losses. If you read this book, be prepared for an emotional roller coaster as you follow them through their ups and downs! Fortunately there are characters who speak words of wisdom from the "good book" into their lives during these struggles. Still, Geesje in particular worries that the questions she asked while her heart was broken will discourage those who hear her tell it. On the contrary, Gessje, I found your honesty made your story all the more encouraging and helpful. And I appreciated learning about all that these brave pioneers had to go through in to live out their faith the way that they wanted to.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction, especially about the early settlement of America, and to those who enjoy uplifting stories which illustrate how Biblical wisdom can be applied to real life.