Sister's Choice
Judith Pella
Bethany House, Mar 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780764201349

In 1882 in Maintown, Oregon Maggie Newcomb feels good for her sister who fell in love with the circuit riding preacher and has his affection too (see BACHELOR'S PUZZLE). However, she is a bit envious as her heart is set on someone who does not appear to share her love. Still although she knows she is not that good at quilting and hears how bad she is all the time from Emma Jean Stoddard, she feels that is the way to her beloved. Maggie dreams un-Christian thoughts as she would like to not turn the other cheek and for once tell the woman to stick it where the sun don't shine. However, she fears alienating the woman she hopes will one day soon be her mother-in-law as she feels she is in love with Emma Jean's son Colby.

Maggie works extra hard to improve her quilting skills, but apparently all for naught when affluent beauty Tamara Brennan arrives. Colby joins the chorus line of admirers leaving Maggie stunned by his sudden disregard for her. She turns to her close friend Evan for help, which he reluctantly gives as he loves Maggie with all his heart, but understands how unrequited love hurts.

The second Patchwork Quilt inspirational historical romance once gain brings to life the Pacific Northwest during the post Reconstruction Era. Maggie is magnificent as she holds the tale together with her campaign to win the heart of Colby, but soon begins to wonder if she is fickle as she begins to look at her aide differently. More character driven and less action than the first story, fans will appreciate this vivid late nineteenth century tale that picturesquely displays community living.

Harriet Klausner