Hearts in Harmony

Hearts in Harmony is the first book in An Amish Journey series. Adeline lives in Shoals, Indiana where she has been having financial troubles since the passing of her beloved husband, Percy. Adeline is a sweet Christian woman who has become isolated in the last eight years. Her health is declining, and she can no longer drive. Mary and Levi enter Adeline’s life which is answer to Adeline’s prayers. She is thankful for their company. Adeline is further blessed when Natalie, a cousin from Percy’s side of the family, begins visiting. Adeline is not the only person to benefit from the arrangement. These four individuals were brought together for a reason as we see in Hearts in Harmony. I liked that the younger people were willing to help Adeline. They were kind, caring and helpful. They were never impatient with her and they genuinely cared for Adeline (a shame we do not see more of this in our world). Adeline was such a sweet, wholesome woman. She is a character that you cannot help but love and root for. It was interesting to see the differences between Mary and Levi’s districts. One district was more lenient than the other because of the bishop in charge. There was also a financial disparity between Mary and Levi’s families. Perceptions, kindness, friendships, music and faith are some of issues addressed in Hearts in Harmony. I liked that Levi and Mary asked those in authority about why they are not allowed to play instruments or sing. Individualism is not allowed (which I find odd since we are all unique individuals). Christian elements are woven into the story. I did feel there was a lack of character development and descriptions of the area. I wish the author had taken the time in the beginning to establish the characters. I found the pacing of the story to be slow (it needed a little pep in its step). Hearts in Harmony could have used some judicious editing. It was too long and needed to be tightened up (would have made it a stronger story). Hearts in Harmony is an amiable story with a delightful ending.

very good. ,