Book Review of Simply Sara By Hillary Manton Lodge

I had the chance recently of reading and reviewing a new Christian fiction book by Hillary Manton Lodge. Simply Sara is a mix of Amish and modern fiction. I had heard of her previous book Plain Jayne and people were giving it rave reviews so when I was able to review this one I jumped at it:) This is actually Hillary's second book and I was anxious to read it.

Simply Sara is about a young lady, who is introduced in the first book, that has run away from her Amish family. She is living with her brother's fiance, who happens to be, you guessed it:) Jayne from Plain Jayne. This novel is her story of how she makes her way in the "English" world and her job.

I seriously had to laugh sometimes with just the little things that are brought up in this book. Sara has never heard of some things and sayings that we use all the time were foreign to her. Her dream is to design clothing and in the meantime she works at a little bookstore. It was really interesting to see the difference between a normal Amish family and what is normal daily life in any family. Hillary brings up many differences and one of those is the clothing. Not just the different manner of dress but the patterns and colors of clothing. Having become "english" Sara can now look at bright colors and go shopping for patterns she never would have been able to wear as an Amish girl.

The only thing I would say I did not care for was the writing at times is stilted. I noticed it most when the characters were talking but it was throughout the book. It was very different writing. And not in a bad way at all. But it did take me a little bit to get used to it. At certain times throughout this story it just seemed like the dialogue was cut off. This in no way caused me to stop reading the book or to draw back from it, but it was enough that I wanted to mention it.

The love story in this book is very sweet and simple. I was really pulled into this book and it showed me some things we take for granted. I stayed up late finishing this and got done with it in one day:) A very lovely story and I am looking forward to reading Hillary's next book. I also have to find Plain Jayne so I can go back and read what happened previously. The ending was beautiful and I think everyone will enjoy it. If you like a sweet story, this is the book for you. Way to go Hillary!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harvest House Publishers for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation. All thoughts are 100% mine.