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Customer Reviews for Zondervan The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Zondervan The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
West Kootenai, Montana is known for it's fall hunting season. Amish men "hunting" for brides and a good hunting season, arrive in spring to make sure they have official "residency" for both events!
Sarah Shelter has lived in W. Kootenai for the last ten years and wonders if she will ever fall in love. Since the tragic death of her best friend, she carries her memories in a jar along with the small items connected to them. For just as long, she's also been carrying around her emotions instead of allowing them to penetrate deep into her heart. Will there ever be someone kind and gentle who can break down that wall?
Average Customer Rating:
(25 Reviews) 25
Rating Snapshot (25 reviews)
5 stars
13
4 stars
8
3 stars
3
2 stars
1
1 star
0
24 out of 2596%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Review 1 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
I was hooked before the 1st chapter ended
Date:March 16, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Tricia you had me hooked before the first chapter ended. The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer was a very enjoyable book. I loved the whole idea of memory jars and thought it made this book all the more special in light of Sarah having lost her best friend. I liked how the reader is introduced to
Sarah and her best friend, Patty as children and then are allowed inside their heads to understand them as people. Jathan was an Amish "knight in shining armor" and Sarah soon sees him in that role.
The memory jar is about friendship, love, family and loyalty. I will be watching for the next books in the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers series. Tricia gets a high 5 for The Memory Jar.
Sarah and her best friend, Patty as children and then are allowed inside their heads to understand them as people. Jathan was an Amish "knight in shining armor" and Sarah soon sees him in that role.
The memory jar is about friendship, love, family and loyalty. I will be watching for the next books in the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers series. Tricia gets a high 5 for The Memory Jar.
I received this book from Net Galley and Zondervan for my honest review.
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Review 2 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
the memory jar
Date:January 12, 2013
This may look like a regular amish romance, but trust me, it's not.
There is a depth to it, which is even more elegant, seen through the simple life of amish people.
There is a depth to it, which is even more elegant, seen through the simple life of amish people.
This is a story about loss.
About fear and about shutting your feelings inside, and being scared of letting anyone get close.
Our heroine, Sarah, may be a little simple at times, but at last she does get it right. And personally I believe that, amish or not, simple or not, it took guts to behave as she did at the second half of the book.
About fear and about shutting your feelings inside, and being scared of letting anyone get close.
Our heroine, Sarah, may be a little simple at times, but at last she does get it right. And personally I believe that, amish or not, simple or not, it took guts to behave as she did at the second half of the book.
The first half of the book, so to speak, is a gentle romance. Of the kind that refreshes you as you read it, and calms you, and warms your heart. Jathan is so big and strong and sensitive, and he is so protective of her, I just loved him. But then, in the second half of the book, the issues are kicked up a notch.
Sarah has to leave her comfort zone, and she has to strike out and make desicions for herself.
She has to be braver than ever before and she has to face the greatest fear of them all.
Trusting others.
And trusting God with her life.
Sarah has to leave her comfort zone, and she has to strike out and make desicions for herself.
She has to be braver than ever before and she has to face the greatest fear of them all.
Trusting others.
And trusting God with her life.
I loved this book, and the lessons it contains. I will only deduct one point because I didn't like the way Jathan behaved at the end, I thought he was weak and a coward and it was out of character for him. In fact, I thought it was a bit foolish how Sarah immediately took him back, somewhat immature.
But other than that I completely recommend this book to those who have no problem reading about the amish way of life.
But other than that I completely recommend this book to those who have no problem reading about the amish way of life.
Rating: 3/5
I received this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.
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Review 3 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The Memory Jar
Date:January 1, 2013
Fitzysmom
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I was enamored with this book from the start. Can you just imagine the commotion that these bachelors raise every spring when they arrive in this tiny community? I can just picture all those sweet young girls whispering and giggling together as they check out this year’s new crop of eligible men. It just makes me smile thinking about it.
Since this is a Tricia Goyer book there are a couple of different things going on that she has masterfully woven together to create a satisfying story. Both of our main characters have back stories that affect the budding relationship between the two of them. Sarah can’t seem to move past the loss of her best friend and Jathan has family obligations that he just can’t find peace about.
One of my favorite aspects of this story is when the two of them have conflict they actually talk about what is bothering them. Many authors use misunderstandings to push the story along. I prefer Tricia’s approach to deepening the storyline and the characters themselves. By the end of the novel both Jathan and Sarah have matured in their walk of faith and in their relationships with others.
One of my favorite aspects of this story is when the two of them have conflict they actually talk about what is bothering them. Many authors use misunderstandings to push the story along. I prefer Tricia’s approach to deepening the storyline and the characters themselves. By the end of the novel both Jathan and Sarah have matured in their walk of faith and in their relationships with others.
Let me give you a little warning . . . this book is going to make you hungry! Hungry for the delicious sounding cupcakes that Sarah is famous for and hungry for the next book in the series. The Promise Box is the title of book two and is scheduled to come out in May 2013. I will definitely be looking forward to it.
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Review 4 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
More than a sweet romance
Date:December 29, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
The Memory Jar is more than a sweet romance. Sarah and Jathan juggle the desires of family and community, their personal dreams, and following God's will. And Sarah also has important lessons to live about treasuring the past instead of dwelling in the past. Tricia Goyer's writing, as always, is engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
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Review 5 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Story line is for young women (single)
Date:December 26, 2012
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
1
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
Story line did not draw me into the characters or the story.
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-2points
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Review 6 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
This Gifted Author Weaves a Memorable Tale!
Date:November 18, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
It's Sarah's 10th birthday and she had "only the forest floor to occupy her" in the Amish community of West Kootenai, Montana. "Pine needles, a clump of moss, a golden leaf" were placed into an old jelly jar found in her mem's cupboard. "A pinecone would be a good find for her collection." As Sarah searched for the perfect pinecone, another young Amish girl came bounding through the woods! A freespirted child, Patty discovered beauty and excitement in every situation, and her adventurous nature was contagious. Sarah offered to get another jar for them to collect wonderful things together. These flashbacks throughout the book build upon Sarah's friendship with Patty, enhancing the story and the significance of the contents of the memory jars Sarah holds so close to her heart.
Sarah is 24 years old, single, and with a fear of commitment. Two years earlier a boating accident claimed the friend who meant everything to her. Her grief and guilt have consumed her, leaving her alone, with no one to share her dreams. Sarah's painful memories threaten her ability to move forward. She continues to dream about a future husband and family, and owning a bakery where she can create "fancy" cupcakes. Her passion for baking and following God's will for her life spills over to others as she cooks and bakes with the Englisch at West Kootenai Kraft and Grocery, putting smiles on the faces of those she encounters. Sarah has an established reputation for her delicious cupcakes!
Jathan Shrock, tall, handsome, and with obstacles to overcome, moved to West Kootenai to work and establish residency in order to hunt. Family expectations and obligations have overwhelmed Jathan, and his inner struggles regarding his life's dream need to be explored away from the constant demands of his family. Guilt and responsibilities overcome him as he seeks God's direction in his life. Jathan doesn't fit the mold that his father and brothers have carved for him, and leaving Berlin Ohio behind for a time is his only solace. Jathan's dream is for a home and family of his own, and to own his own business, possibly his mother's bakery. He has a good business sense and is accomplished in the kitchen, having helped his mem throughout the years.
In West Kootenai it is tradition to "climb the mountains." Sarah had reached a crossroad in her life and felt she was ready for the challenge. Sarah, two Amish girlfriends, Jathan and his Amish friend set out for the day's hike together. The physical challenges were numerous, and not far from the mountaintop Sarah twisted her ankle. While she remained behind the others forged ahead to the summit. Thinking that her friends had forgotten her, Sarah started her way down the mountain alone, but took the wrong trail and became lost. When the others realized they had taken a different path down the mountain and hadn't found Sarah, Jathan climbed back up to look for her. He found signs of Sarah's trail down the mountainside, and eventually discovered her shortly before nightfall. As they were forced to spend a long and cold night on the side of the mountain Jathan foraged for dry wood and started a fire to keep them warm. As the night wore on Sarah opened up to Jathan, and talked about her friend, Patty, and her dreams of owning a bakery. Jathan shared his visions of God's splendor on the mountain. He is like a balm to Sarah, but he wasn't yet prepared to share his own burdens. As dawn began to break Jathan carried Sarah back to the mountain trail and reached the valley below as rescuers were arriving.
As the days progressed Jathan and Sarah's attraction and friendship developed further, and they discussed a future business together in Jathan's mem's bakery in Ohio. Unfortunately Jathan receives news that his father has had a stroke and he is needed at home. He leaves immediately, and a confused Sarah is left to wonder what will become of their friendship. Jathan realizes that Sarah could be a help in the bakery, and asks her to come to Berlin, Ohio. Sarah's aunt lives in Berlin, and as she prepares to take her leave her mother presents her with Patty's memory jar, that she had been keeping for such a time as this. Sarah takes one of her own memory jars along with Patty's to Ohio, and as she takes time to examine the contents of Patty's memory jar the healing process begins. New challenges confront Sarah as she begins her life in Ohio, but feeling God's presence fills her spirit.
The Memory Jar is filled with descriptive elements. The author paints vivid images of the areas surrounding both West Kootenai, Montana, and Berlin, Ohio. This is a carefully thought out story of the vulnerabilities and internal struggles of the main characters in this book. It is an emotional journey through the lives of two people whose struggles to overcome the past and present are presented realistically and in a heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking manner. The main characters in "The Memory Jar" are endearing, believable, and have depth. The plot is well developed, moves along at a wonderful pace, and raises questions throughout the story that cause the reader think more deeply about life and our human frailties. I loved this book, and will be reading it again. The story evoked emotions that had me smiling, laughing, crying, and feeling spiritually uplifted. I highly recommend this beautifully woven tale to those who love Amish Christian fiction.
I was given a copy of this book by Zondervan for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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Review 7 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Broken Hearts, Restoration and Romance
Date:November 7, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Tricia Goyer in her new book, “The Memory Jar” Book One in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series published by Zondervan takes us into the life of Sarah Shelter.
From the back cover: For five years, love has passed her up. For one moment, can she put down her guard?
Every year, a number of young Amish men descend on the cozy mountain town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive ‘resident’ status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides!
Sarah Shelter has lived in West Kootenai for the last ten years and wonders if she will ever fall in love. Since the tragic death of her best friend, she saves her memories in a jar along with the small items connected to them. For just as long, she’s also been carrying around her emotions instead of allowing them to penetrate deep into her heart. Until she meets Jathan Schrock.
Can this kind and gentle man break down her walls, and can Sarah risk her heart to finally achieve her dreams?
Tricia Goyer has an attention to details that help draw you into the story as well, of course, as her marvelous characters. Ms. Goyer lets you feel Sarah’s heartbreak and then her hope coming alive when she meets Jathan. Both Sarah and Jathan are presented in such a real manner that you feel as though they are friends of yours and when the book eventually ends you are sorry to see them go. “The Memory Jar is an exciting book with the romance taking top priority as each of them deals with their individual issues. ”The Memory Jar” deals with themes of forgiveness and restoration as only God can produce. Ms. Goyer has done it again. I liked this book a lot. I am so looking forward to book two in this series.
Win an Amish Kindle Gift Pack from @TriciaGoyer and RSVP for her “Memory Jar” Author Chat Party on 11/7
Celebrate with Tricia by entering her Amish Kindle Gift Pack Giveaway and RSVPing to her Facebook party on November 7th. (And be sure to catch the fun video trailer or try your hand at one of the simple, keepsake crafts Tricia has put together on her website.)
One fortunate winners will receive:
A brand new Kindle Fire
Custom-made Memory Jar Kindle Cover
Amish-made decorative items {Wall hanging, horse/buggy and Amish houses}
The Memory Jar {Be swept away by this captivating series.}
Custom-made Memory Jar Kindle Cover
Amish-made decorative items {Wall hanging, horse/buggy and Amish houses}
The Memory Jar {Be swept away by this captivating series.}
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 6th. Winner will be announced at the “Memory Jar Author Chat Party on 11/7. Connect with Tricia for an evening of book chat, Amish trivia, and a live video chat! There will also be a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!
So grab your copy of The Memory Jar and join Tricia on the evening of the November 7th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 7th!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Review 8 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
A lovely tale of Amish love
Date:November 4, 2012
Marcy
Location:Louisville, KY
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Tricia Goyer is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. Both her novels of historical fiction and tales of Amish life stir emotion within me, unlike most other books I've read. The Memory Jar is no different. Getting to know Sarah and Patty through their memory jars, and Sarah's flashbacks to their childhood, was a sweet and endearing way to develop these characters. Although Patty has been gone for 2 years, she is an integral part of the story because she was the first person to accept Sarah exactly as she was and to encourage her God-given creativity, a creativity viewed as "fancy" to most in the Amish community. The next person to truly understand Sarah would be Jathan, an Amish man from Ohio, who has landed in Montana, where Sarah lives, to escape the harsh reality that he's a little different, too.
I found myself feeling as though I was peeking into something sacred -- a God-ordained story of love and loss, dreams and reality, but most of all, the lives of two people, both carrying around pain in their hearts, as well as hopes for the future. Hopes that as an Amish man and woman, were not readily accepted by their communities, or even their families. It took finding each other to allow themselves to do that which would make these hopes and dreams come to life. But it was not easy. Releasing years of pain in order to accept love never is. Standing up for what you truly believe is not either.
I smiled.
I laughed.
I cried.
A lot.
If you are a lover of Amish fiction, you will adore this story. If you haven't read Amish fiction before, you'll want to begin here.
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Review 9 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The Memory Jar
Date:November 2, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I enjoyed Tricia's first Amish series (Big Sky series) and I was happy to see some of those characters make an appearance in The Memory Jar, since part of the book is set in West Kootenai, and part in Ohio. Sarah isn't a typical Amish woman, with her love of cupcake baking, but her best friend Patty had a big part in showing Sarah it is okay to be different. Jathan isn't a typical Amish man, either, only he took more guff over his differences. The healing that took place as Sarah and Jathan began to get to know each other and carry each others burdens, so to speak, was heartwarming. The story took some unexpected twists and turns, and I found the end a bit improbable, but this was a good start to a new series. I'm looking forward to reading on as more bachelors find their brides in Montana.
With thanks to Zondervan Publishers, via NetGalley, for my review copy.
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Review 10 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Sweet (and Painful) Memories
Date:October 30, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Sarah Shelter works as a baker at the West Kootenai Kraft and Grocery and watches the young Amish bachelors who come each year to live a few months in Montana for the chance to gain resident status and hunt wild game. Many of the bachelors also leave West Kootenai with brides.
For years, Sarah has saved little items in her memory jar, something that is even more special to her since the death of her best friend Patty a few years earlier. Sarah's painful memories threaten to hold her back from finding love and from pursuing her dreams of someday running her own bakery.
Then she meets Jathan Schrock. Will this young bachelor from Holmes County, Ohio, help her use the memories from her jar to move out of her past and into the future she has long dreamed of?
Tricia Goyer has written a heartwarming story in The Memory Jar, with characters experiencing a variety of life's joys and hurts. Following Sarah and Jathan through the ups and downs of their relationship is a touching journey filled with both disappointment and fulfillment. This is a great read for fans of Amish fiction -- or anyone who enjoys a well-written story of hope and love.
Thanks to Tricia Goyer for providing me a copy of The Memory Jar. I am happy to give this book a five-star recommendation.
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Review 11 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The keeping of one's memories is a treasure
Date:October 30, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
First of all, I found the concept of a "memory jar" as kept by Sarah in "The Memory Jar" rather quaint even for an Amish story. To think that teens and adults would collect rocks, tiny pinecones, etc. and store them in a jar to aid as a tool to recollect their special moments or experiences in life is not in keeping with any society beyond that one really backward or very young. In spite of my concept and thinking on a "memory jar" that is an item of particular importance in The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer.
When a young girl our heroine and her young friend both keep their memories intact inside th memory jar. This becomes especially important to Sarah after her best friend Patty dies in a boating accident. Memories are all Sarah has left of Patty and therefore the jar becomes important.
Sarah can not seem to get into the boy meets girl and girl and boy marry scenario that is expected of the Amish. She is not much for routine housekeeping responsibility and dotes on her skills as a "fancy" baker. She dreams of one day having her own bakery.
Jathan arrives on the scene along with other young Amish bachelors who come to the area hunting - both for wild game and for brides. Jathan is somewhat shy but he has spotted Sarah. They are in a group that goes hiking and become well acquainted because she has an injury and he helps her.
As the story progresses, they have family and community issues that put roadblocks in their path. It looks like things might work out for them and then it all falls apart. Will their relationship end up in the memory jar? Will it be a good memory, or will it be a memory of heartbreak?
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of the book on behalf of the publisher and author in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 12 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The Memory Jar
Date:October 29, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This is the story of Sarah Shetler and her healing and finding a new life. As a little girl her family moved from Kentucky to Montana, where she is befriended by Patty. Patty and Sarah share so much of their youth together and create so many memories.
When we begin this book there has been a tragic accident and Sarah's Dear friend Patty has been killed. For Sarah, Patty was that perfect "almost Sister" type friend. They shared so many memories...as we travel through the book we are given glimpses into there happy moments. They each had a memory jar...little tokens of a special memory. How awesome...we all carry these precious thoughts, but to touch something that brings us back to those moments. Wonderful!
I feel Sarah's pain and how hard it must have been for her to find peace and feel those happy times now that her friend is gone. Along come Jathan, he has come to search his heart, and spend time in the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana. Every year bachelors come to go hunting in the mountains.
When they find an attraction to one another, Sarah lets down her guard and starts sharing Patty with him. He also lets her know his Mam owns a Bakery! Sarah's passion is making incredible cupcakes....I want her recipes! YUM!
When Jathan is called back home after is Daed had had a stroke will it be the end for them?
This is a story of finding oneself, and peace at our decisions, and following what is God's plan.
This is the first book in this series, and am anxious to read more of this heart warming stories!
When we begin this book there has been a tragic accident and Sarah's Dear friend Patty has been killed. For Sarah, Patty was that perfect "almost Sister" type friend. They shared so many memories...as we travel through the book we are given glimpses into there happy moments. They each had a memory jar...little tokens of a special memory. How awesome...we all carry these precious thoughts, but to touch something that brings us back to those moments. Wonderful!
I feel Sarah's pain and how hard it must have been for her to find peace and feel those happy times now that her friend is gone. Along come Jathan, he has come to search his heart, and spend time in the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana. Every year bachelors come to go hunting in the mountains.
When they find an attraction to one another, Sarah lets down her guard and starts sharing Patty with him. He also lets her know his Mam owns a Bakery! Sarah's passion is making incredible cupcakes....I want her recipes! YUM!
When Jathan is called back home after is Daed had had a stroke will it be the end for them?
This is a story of finding oneself, and peace at our decisions, and following what is God's plan.
This is the first book in this series, and am anxious to read more of this heart warming stories!
I received this book through Litfuse Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
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Review 13 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer
Date:October 26, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This moment is the most important one of all. We can either enjoy it, and the people we are with; or we can wish for something from the past back, or want to rush into the future. But then we miss the gifts that are here...in this moment.
Sarah Shelter misses her best friend, Patty, who two years before drowned in a boating accident. Sarah learned a lot about life from Patty, and she is the one who helped to start Sarah’s interest in making memory jars. Sarah keeps little trinkets that she has collected to help her remember special times. These memories, especially the ones she made with Patty, Sarah holds outside of herself; in her jars.
As a way to deal with her grief, Sarah turned to her baking, and works at the West Kootenai Kraft and Grocery as one of their bakers. She finds solace in baking things, especially cupcakes, that make people smile. Sarah also has a dream, a dream that Patty had encouraged, which is to own her own bakery one day. But her Mem wants her to focus on finding a husband and becoming a good Amish wife.
Jathan Schrock (one of the bachelors who is visiting West Kootenai, Montana on a hunting trip) has his own issues from the past that he needs to deal with. He also would like to have his own business, and a wife and kids someday, but he knows that it is his duty as the youngest son to support his aging parents.
The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer is a sweet story that contains both a love for God's creation, as well as a message of how God can heal broken hearts when we let him. Jathan and Sarah are both well-developed characters; who had endured themselves to my heart. Tricia has done a wonderful job of depicting the Amish way of life in the first book of her new series Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors; which captivated me from the first page to the last. A very enjoyable story. I now look forward to the next book, The Promise Box
**The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 14 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The Memory Jar
Date:October 24, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Sarah Shelter baked the best cupcakes in West Kootenai, Montana. Some of the visiting young Amish bachelors claim they are the best they have ever eaten.
Sarah has been invited to go hiking up the mountain with some of the local Amish girls and some visiting Amish Bachelors. It was to be a fun outing. She needs to make new friends. She has mourned the loss of her best friend for some time now. The young woman drowned in a boating accident. Sarah must move on with her life but it is so hard to forget that tragic day and the loss of her friend.
On the hiking trip circumstances beyond her control bring Sarah and Jathan Schrock, one of the bachelors together. She must trust him to get her back down the mountain. His kindness and attentiveness touched her heart. They were able to share their dreams with each other and Sarah told him about the loss of her friend and the pain of that loss. Sarah even told him about the Memory Jar. She has found a new friend in this handsome young Amish man. Will she be able to trust him with her heart and dreams.
Sarah is a beautiful character she has so much love for God and her fellow man whether they be Amish or English. When she leaves her mountain she feels the pressure of change and some people attempt to stifle her brilliant light of love, along with her dreams.
The character Jathan is the youngest in his large family and he feels burdened by the goals and demands of his family especially his father. He has never been able to share his dream for the future with them. But with Sarah it was different she encourages him to follow his dream if it is God's will. He ends up letting other people cloud his judgement which in turn caused a lot of people pain.
Fear seemed to play a big role in this story.
Tricia Goyer knows how to grab your attention and keep it. The story is a valuable life lesson that will inspire the reader.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Zondervan/Litfuse Group for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
I received a free copy of this book from Zondervan/Litfuse Group for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
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Review 15 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Amish Fiction from Tricia Goyer: The Memory Jar
Date:October 19, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
~ 3.5 stars ~
When it comes to heartrending and emotional fiction nobody does it better than Tricia Goyer. With her latest book The Memory Jar we're once again treated to a story of loss and hope set in Montana and Ohio Amish country. Fans of her previous Amish novels will be delighted to know that Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors starts off wonderfully and will surely continue to improve as the series progresses. To be honest this story took a long time to get into but the last third of the book involving an incident with Jathan Schrock as a boy and his father and Sarah and the discovery about her deceased friend Patty nearly had me in tears. Throughout most of the story both seemed rather impetuous and juvenile but they both grew up amidst a family tragedy that I really think made them more easy to relate to and like. The flashbacks to Sarah's youth and her time with her best friend, Patty really gave this story a unique twist. If you're looking for a romance I didn't think this reads like a love story but more of a coming of age story or even a women's fiction book. In spite of the series' name this isn't a fluffy read by any stretch but it's worth a look if you're looking for a solid Amish tale.
When it comes to heartrending and emotional fiction nobody does it better than Tricia Goyer. With her latest book The Memory Jar we're once again treated to a story of loss and hope set in Montana and Ohio Amish country. Fans of her previous Amish novels will be delighted to know that Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors starts off wonderfully and will surely continue to improve as the series progresses. To be honest this story took a long time to get into but the last third of the book involving an incident with Jathan Schrock as a boy and his father and Sarah and the discovery about her deceased friend Patty nearly had me in tears. Throughout most of the story both seemed rather impetuous and juvenile but they both grew up amidst a family tragedy that I really think made them more easy to relate to and like. The flashbacks to Sarah's youth and her time with her best friend, Patty really gave this story a unique twist. If you're looking for a romance I didn't think this reads like a love story but more of a coming of age story or even a women's fiction book. In spite of the series' name this isn't a fluffy read by any stretch but it's worth a look if you're looking for a solid Amish tale.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
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Review 16 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Utterly Charming
Date:October 18, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
An engaging Amish tale of moving past tragedy.
There was something about the setting in this tale that was so charming, I and loved the originality of it. The characters were very likable and easy to connect to from the very start. Even though Ms. Goyer has other Amish books I have never read any, but I did really like her book about the Titanic, By the Light of the Silvery Moon, and I immensely enjoyed this story.
Jathan, I thought was really likable, and the perfect person to help Sarah move on from a past she couldn't change. He was so kind, with a quirk of humor and he didn't know exactily what he wanted but he had a great start and a direction.
To me this book was really likable because it had a sweet romance, but also a more serious side with Sarah still healing from a past tragedy.
This was an engaging and likable read, with a very nice balance to it so it wasn't light and airy, but it wasn't over bearingly heavy either. In other words just perfect!
This is definitely a book that I would happily recommend, even to readers that might no think that Amish is their thing. It was a highly enjoyable read, with great faith elements, and messages of inspiration.
I received this book from the publisher through Litfuse in return for an honest review. Thank you!
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Review 17 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
The Memory Jar Is A Treasure
Date:October 10, 2012
Jodi
Age:35-44
Gender:female
"Sometimes God wants us to take big leaps of faith but other times...other times he jest wants us to offer a bit of love in a way another will gladly accept it."
Patty, The Memory Jar
Patty, The Memory Jar
Sarah Shelter loves to bake, especially cakes and cupcakes. She dreams of running a bakery of her own one day. For a long time, Sarah took her memories of her best friend, Patty, and stored them away as a method to protect herself. It was like she put all her memories of Patty in the jars along with the treasures she collected. But, by closing herself off to the painful parts of her past she was closing everyone else off from her too. Until now....
Jathan Schrock also has a dream, but he is caught between his dream and his duty. He is sure that as an Amish man and a follower of God, he should put the needs of his family first. Jathan has another problem...his father does not approve of his dream and has told him so...loud and clear. Will this mean Jathan needs to let his dream go and just live as his family expects? Will he ever have his father's blessing to follow the dream he holds so close to his heart?
The Memory Jar will be released on October 23, 2012. Thank you, Zondervan, for the free advanced copy to read, in exchange for my honest review.
Tricia Goyer has been on my list of new authors to read for a while. This is the first novel of hers that I have read and I wasn't disappointed. When I read the synopsis of The Memory Jar, I was drawn to the book immediately. Sarah and I already had a connection. Sarah dreams of having a bakery and making fancy cupcakes and I have been running my home-based cake decorating business for the last 5 years. So this book sounded right up my alley.
I read most of my books off an ereader and sometimes I am caught by surprise that the book is already over. (I know you can look at the little slide at the bottom, but I don't always do that!) As I was reading, I got to a point where I thought this story could have ended, but to my delight it kept going!
The Memory Jar is a captivating story that kept me wondering how it might end. I enjoyed both the community in Montana and the one in Ohio. The characters were loveable and I particularly enjoyed Patty and her "old soul".
I read most of my books off an ereader and sometimes I am caught by surprise that the book is already over. (I know you can look at the little slide at the bottom, but I don't always do that!) As I was reading, I got to a point where I thought this story could have ended, but to my delight it kept going!
The Memory Jar is a captivating story that kept me wondering how it might end. I enjoyed both the community in Montana and the one in Ohio. The characters were loveable and I particularly enjoyed Patty and her "old soul".
Whether you are a fan of Amish fiction or not, I think you would enjoy this book.
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Review 18 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Great story....
Date:October 4, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
The Memory Jar
By Tricia Goyer
By Tricia Goyer
Reviewed by Martha Artyomenko
Sarah and Patty are best of friends, but when tragedy strikes taking Sarah’s friend from her, she feels she loses one the best things in her life. Gathering her memories into a jar, Sarah stuff her feelings metaphorically into the pickle jar along with the memories.
Jathan has come to visit the beautiful, small Amish community in Rexford, seeking a time of hunting, fun and relaxation as well as trying to run from past hurts. He joins the many young single men that swarm through the community and leave after a short time.
They both do not expect anything more than the norm, when love surprises them.
Jathan has come to visit the beautiful, small Amish community in Rexford, seeking a time of hunting, fun and relaxation as well as trying to run from past hurts. He joins the many young single men that swarm through the community and leave after a short time.
They both do not expect anything more than the norm, when love surprises them.
Tricia has worked so hard on these books to make sure they are accurately portrayed. This one was very special to me, I believe because of the area it is set in. I felt like she captured the heart of the area. First, she portrayed Sarah and Patty as young Amish girls, with dreams, hope, mistakes, but they were not surrounding fancy clothing like so many Amish books, but more mischief making kind. I could almost smell the pinecones and felt like I was transported back to my childhood, running and playing in the woods with my friends or even alone. I loved the tidbits of true info about the area; she tosses in here and there throughout the book. If you ever get a chance to visit the area, you will see one of the most beautiful areas in the USA, in my opinion, but I am slightly biased! =)
Ms. Goyer has done it again, but in a way where she will impact this severely saturated market of light Amish reads. She creates a book with moments of depth to it that will touch your heart and have you seeking love for Sarah and Jathan, as well as peace with the past. It was a truly enjoyable read. I know it will be for you as well!
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Review 19 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
Follow your dreams in The Memory Jar by Tricia Goy
Date:September 25, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
My thoughts about The Memory Jar:
I really enjoyed this book but for some reason, it was a bit slow for me to "get into". As I got to know Sarah and Jathan, I was eagerly reading to see what was going to happen next for them. This book deals with loss, death, grief, and living out one's dreams. Sarah and Jathan both have some unusual dreams for their future and this creates conflict among the characters of the book. It was very refreshing to see them having to work these conflicts out, in order to live their dreams. The book also suggests that we must live in the present and plan for the future and let the past go. The story begins in Montana and then the main characters move to Charm, Ohio. I have visited the Ohio Amish country and so it was like getting to visit there again as I read. I loved reading about the scenery and differences among the Montana Amish community. I would highly recommend this book to readers.
I really enjoyed this book but for some reason, it was a bit slow for me to "get into". As I got to know Sarah and Jathan, I was eagerly reading to see what was going to happen next for them. This book deals with loss, death, grief, and living out one's dreams. Sarah and Jathan both have some unusual dreams for their future and this creates conflict among the characters of the book. It was very refreshing to see them having to work these conflicts out, in order to live their dreams. The book also suggests that we must live in the present and plan for the future and let the past go. The story begins in Montana and then the main characters move to Charm, Ohio. I have visited the Ohio Amish country and so it was like getting to visit there again as I read. I loved reading about the scenery and differences among the Montana Amish community. I would highly recommend this book to readers.
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Review 20 for The Memory Jar, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series #1
Overall Rating:
A beautiful story of hope and faith admist loss!
Date:September 8, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"For so long, she'd taken her memories of Patty - the memories they'd created together - and held them outside of herself, protecting herself from the pain of carrying them deep within. It was as if she carried all the memories in her jars. But if doing so, it was as if she'd also kept everyone else - those still in her life - at arm's length too."
Sarah Shelter knows she is different from most Amish girls. She can quilt but doesn't enjoy it, loves to bake, but doesn't like cooking, and find herself spending most of her time dreaming and wishing of a life she believes God wants for her, but because it might go against what others want for her, she pushes those thoughts back. Instead she spends her time and talents pouring her heart and soul in the baked goods she makes for Annie, her boss at West Kootenai Kraft and Grocery in the heart of the Montana mountains. Her customers can taste all the love she puts into each of her creations and she dreams of sometime owning her own bakery.
When the tragedy of losing her best friend Patty during an accident at the lake, she pushes her hopes and dreams back into herself much like the trinkets she has collected over the years she stores in her memory jars. She can only hope that some day she can find a man who will love the real Sarah that lies bottled up inside waiting for that special someone to unlock her dreams.
Jathan Schrock believes that "There is not a pot so crooked there isn't a lid to fit it. Years ago, Jathan knew he would have tried to pound himself into shape - but he struggles to find a way to express the passion and love he has inside that goes against what he father feels a true Amish man should measure up to and for now, takes so time to head to Montana to hunt and make some money to help his family out during their hard financial times. Yet he doesn't realize how one adventure hiking into the mountains with a group of Amish young adults will change his life forever in both good and bad ways.
In the novel The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer, the reader is immersed into a different story from any I've read before. The setting of a mountain Amish community is a bit different and LOVE how Tricia incorporated the love of the forests and animals into the adventures and friendship Patty and Sarah share and build, but also one that Jathan and Sarah discover as well. I love Sarah's love for baking and in it she discovers she has a talent that God created in her that is different than most in her Amish community. She finds herself at odds with most in the Amish that believe that Sarah is going to far in her creativity and many find it prideful, but Sarah sees things differently.
I received this novel compliments of Zondervan Publishing and Net Galley for my honest opinion and love the parallel storylines that take place throughout this book. While Sarah feels she has lost her friendship with Patty forever, she soon discovers that Patty has been with her all along in the things she decides to do once she works past her grief. I love the memory jar concept and have one myself to look back on things that mean a lot to me that happen over the year. This is a beautifully written Amish novel that will inspire and encourage those that have gone through a sense of loss as well as searching for what our life's purpose is. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and this is one you will definitely want to pick up when it comes out this October. Make sure you preorder your copy today. This is the first book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and this will be one you'll want to begin and follow.
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