Thursday, March 28, 2019

THE HIGHEST OF HOPES by Susan Anne Mason, Reviewed by Trixi and Karen


Trixi's Review:
Family dynamics play a strong role in “The Highest of Hopes” and it's what motivates Emma to cross an ocean to try to discover her place with her father long thought deceased. What she finds isn't what she pictured in her minds eye. She will face many heartaches and it's her resiliency that will shape her character throughout the story. There were many moments that my heart broke for her, especially her inner thought of her own worthlessness. But at the end, one wise person reminded her of how Christ sees her—

“There's only one parent's love you truly need: your heavenly Father's. And the good news is you don't have to earn it, and you don't have to prove yourself worthy to receive it. You are loved for exactly the person you are, with all your faults and flaws. In His eyes, you are a masterpiece. His own wondrous creation.”~page 303

Her best friend since childhood, Jonathan Rowe tags along in spite of his reservations on the kind of reception she may find on the other end. He's the more level-headed of the two and is willing to help Emma through any crisis. In spite of fighting his own demons stemming from the aftereffects of war, he's protective of her and would do anything to prove his love. Though he's always kept that part of his heart hidden. He too will be shaped and molded with the trails and tribulations he faces and eventual realization that love can sometimes be a sacrifice of self.

“Love should never be viewed as a competition. Love requires compromise and sacrifice. There's no place for ego in a marriage.”~pg. 357

Susan Anne Mason writes in such a way that makes you care deeply about her characters and their plight in life. Her stories are highly emotional and always tug at my heartstrings. This was difficult at best to put down when real life interrupted my reading time. Though this is the second book in the “Canadian Crossings” series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. I eagerly await the next installment!

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House on behalf of the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed her are my own. *

Karen's review: 

The Highest of Hopes might take place one hundred years ago, but its characters are so relatable! Emmaline Moore is impulsive, strong-willed, and stubborn. I can relate to her well! Jonathan Rowe, her best friend since childhood, is more level-headed and much slower to act. They make such a lovely team, and I was rooting for them from the beginning!​

Throughout the story Emmaline is consumed with trying to win the affection of her father and his family. Jonathan is always supportive, always there to help her despite the possibility of his heart breaking. He has his own issues to work through, and I admire his determination in trying to better himself even while he’s so far from home.​

When nothing turns out like Emmaline has planned, she is reminded of the truth that we all need to keep in our hearts, the message of eternal, unconditional love from our Heavenly Father. I never tire of the reminder, and the story’s conclusion leave you feeling full of joy and hope!​

*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House and am under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own. ​

BackCover Blurb:
After her beloved grandfather's death, Emmaline Moore is shocked to discover that her "deceased" father is actually living in Canada. Having no other family, Emma decides she must find him, and so embarks on a journey across the ocean, accompanied by her best friend, Jonathan. Unfortunately, Randall Moore and his well-to-do family aren't thrilled by her arrival, fearing her sudden appearance will hinder his chance at becoming mayor of Toronto in 1919. Despite everything, Emma remains determined to earn their affection.

Jonathan Rowe has secretly loved Emma for years and hopes that during their trip he can win her heart. Concerned that Randall might reject her, Jonathan is ready to console Emma and bring her home. When she informs him that she has no intention of returning to England, Jonathan begins to despair. Can he convince Emma to find value within herself rather than seeking it from a virtual stranger? And will she ever come to see that Jonathan is her true home?


Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:
Buy The Highest of Hopes at Amazon
Buy The Highest of Hopes at Christianbook.com

2 comments:

  1. A popular story and one of my favorite covers ever! Thanks ladies! I should be catching up on the older series this year, on audio.

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