The great market crash of 1929. I can imagine some of the turmoil of those days, but nothing personifies it for me quite like a good story. From the beginning of Julia's Hope by Leisha Kelly, I was drawn in, wondering how I would function if a similar event happened today.

The stock market crash led to fall of Sam Wortham's company and took every penny he and his wife, Julia, had with it. With no job and no future in Pennsylvania, they head toward a cousin in Illinois, only to find out once they are within a days journey that he cannot help them either. Taking shelter in an abandoned farmhouse, the Wortham's must determine what to do next. Will they face what seeks to drive them apart, or find the courage to stand together during this difficult season.

What I Liked

Mrs. Kelly's writing style is easy going, yet she communicates the emotion of the person very clearly. She had an interesting cast of characters, and introduced them slowly enough that I was never confused about who each person was. The story moved along well with enough tension to keep me reading, yet all the action seems realistic.

What I Didn't Like

The ending seemed more like a summary, rather than a true ending, but the story doesn't end with this book. The next book in the series, Emma's Gift, continues the adventures of this family.

The Bottom Line - 4 stars

This is a gentle story with plenty of issues and a lot of heart. If you want something to relax you, to get you cheering for the good guys without heart-racing life-or-death scenes, then you may want to try this series.