Book Review - The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard

 

 

Teenagers Colt and Julia has secretly spent the entire year together and no one ever knew, not even her boyfriend. They felt like they needed to keep their love a secret because they were from two different backgrounds. Julia's family was rich and was surrounded by opulence while Colt's family wasn't.

One weekend, Colt's life changes when he hears that Julia dies in a car accident. He is devastated but, he can't mourn in public because their relationship was kept a secret. Colt feels like he played a role in her demise.  When Colt receives Julia's journal, he relives their romance through her words. Will be able to move on?

I am not sure what the point of this book was. I felt like if you read the blurb of the book, you already knew the most potent parts of the books and the rest is just filler. There was barely any character development or backstory and the plot barely progressed. I didn't bond with any of the characters in the book and felt like this book was an epic waste of time.

Book Review - Words from the Heart by Kathleen Fuller

Photo Credit - Amazon

Ivy Yoder is the oldest daughter in her family and she is still single. She feels like is destined to be alone when she met a charming young Amish man who promised to write her but never did. Stung by his broken promise and her lack of prospects, she is delighted when a quirky older woman asks for Ivy's help. However, the task comes with one eccentric requirement; both she and Cevilla's nephews must do the chore together.

Noah Schlabach is Cevilla's beloved nephew and is dedicated to his family. When, his aunt asks him for help, he doesn't hesitate to agree even with the weird requirement of working with Ivy. He works as an auctioneer and is also excited to see if can unearth any antique items. The duo comes across a pile of mysterious love letters written during the Korean War. They find themselves entranced by the couple even when they both believe they are destined to be alone. Will Ivy and Noah learn to put the past behind them and fall in love? Why did Cevilla ask them to work together? Why were the letters hidden away?

If you are a fan of Kathleen Fuller or Amish romances, you will enjoy this novel. Fans might notice characters from her previous novels. I found the story an engaging and delightful read while eager for the couple to find their path. A definite treat and I can't wait to read her other novels.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**