The Persian Pickle Club

I didn't think I would be able to relate to a novel about quilting but there was so much more to the story than that. Set amidst the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression Queenie and the members of the Persian Pickle Club pass the time helping each other and their community by quilting blankets to raise money for charity. When Rita marries a local boy and becomes part of their "quilting circle" she brings a youthful brashness that keeps everyone on their toys. She's load and brash but Queenie takes to her right away and they become fast friends helping each other through the loss of a child, the death of a friend's husband and squatters taking up on their land. Through it all quilting binds the women together and becomes the one reliable thing they have in such trying times. Truly a wonderful novel that beautifully illustrates the hardships endured during the great depression and women's thankless role in getting through it. Honestly I was also intrigued by the quilting parts as well, I wouldn't mind trying my hand at a small square. It sounds so fun!

What Once Was Lost

Despite the normal grumblings I have about historical Christian fiction (women belong in the house, men know best, etc.) this was actually a pretty good book. Kim Vogel Sawyer actually had the audacity to counter some of my least favorite aspects of Christian romance (finally!).

This historical romance is set in rural Kansas during the mid to late nineteenth century. Christina Willems runs a well loved poor house on the outskirts of town but when a fire ruins the only home she's ever known she has to find accommodations for her and all the residents. Finding someone to take in Tommy, an eleven year old blind boy turns out to be difficult. Desperate and with no where else to go she entrusts him to a faithless bachelor, Levi Johnson. While Miss Willems busies herself trying to secure funds to rebuild the house and look after her wards sparks begin to fly between her and Levi. The more frustrated she becomes with her the more the attraction grows. The turmoil in her heart isn't the only ache Miss Willems has to face however, someone is trying to sully her good name in town and she has no idea why. Will the townspeople stand by her? Will Levi? Read to find out!!!

As stated, for a Christian historical romance I was pleasantly surprised. Yes there were many instances of women aren't as worthy or capable as men (it's in the bible!) stuff, but the author addresses and counters it. Another redeeming factor was Cora, a young pregnant and unwed girl who, shockingly, isn't stoned or ridiculed (not by everyone in the town anyways, there are good Christians!). Overall, a good quick and uplifting read.

I was given this book for free from Waterbrook Press in return for my honest, unbiased opinion.