Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers

I started this book last week and finished it quickly, what a great read!  I love this author and the way that she writes, she makes you fall in love with her characters.  Her first book Redeeming Love is one of my top 5 all-time favorite novels and this book also did not disappoint.  The sequel to Her Mother's Hope is out, it's called Her Daughter's Dream, and it is most definitely making my Christmas wish list.  I can't wait to read it.  Definitely recommend this author/book.

Near the turn of the twentieth century, fiery Marta Schnedier is torn between her father's declaration that she'll never be more than a servant and her mother's encouragement to chase her dreams.  Determined to fulfill her mother's hope, Marta leaves home for a better life.  Young and alone, she earns her way with a series of housekeeping and cooking jobs that bring her ever closer to her dream of owning an inn.

Heartbreaking news from home strengthens Marta's resolve as she moves to England and eventually to Canada.  There, she meets Niclas Waltert, a man just as commited as she to forging a better life in a new place.  But nothing has prepared her for the sacrifices she must make for marriage and motherhood as she travels first to Canadian wilderness and finally to the dusty Central Valley of California to raise her family. 

Marta's hope is to give her children a better life, but experience has taught her that only the strong survive.  Her tough love is often misunderstood especially by her oldest daughter, Hildermara Rose, who craves her mother's acceptance.  Amid the drama of World War II, Hildie falls in love and begins a family of her own.  But unexpected and tragic events force mother and daughter to face their own shortcomings and the ever-widening chasm that threatens to separate them forever. 

Happy Reading

Kim

PS - Can someone help me figure out how to add a Signature Line, I'm having trouble!