Anyone who reads Karen Witemeyer's books, was introduced to Rosalind Kemp in More Than Words Can Say. Rosie is Abby's younger sister. Together they try to run their fathers bake shop. The relationship between Rosalind and Caleb Durrington builds slowly and feels very natural. There is just enough suspense throughout the story to keep you interested. Loved this book. Love this author.

How is it possible for an author to write such an emotionally gripping story in such a short amount of words? I was so excited to read more about Rosalind, who we met as Abigail's sister in More Than Words Can Say. She has made past mistakes but has matured into a wonderful young lady. She is poised and pretty but also has gumption and strength that is admirable. There are spiritual themes of forgiveness and mercy that are relatable and applicable to any reader. I really liked the historical aspect of the story and learning more about the Harvey Houses. I also found myself connecting with the characters almost immediately and definitely cried a time or two for Rosalind as she struggled and grew throughout the story. I really, really enjoyed this novella and highly recommend it! The author has penned another winner!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Just when I think I know pretty much all about American History, I read a book about the Harvey Girls and realize there is SO much more to learn about our great country! This book was about Harvey Girls working in Harvey Houses in the American West based on the real Harvey Houses (essentially restaurants) that populated the country at a time when train travel was the "thing"! It offered women a chance to gain independence and see our great country. Harvey Girls weren't "just waitresses", they were so much more! This book was so fascinating to me and I enjoyed the characters. Rosalind Kemp wants desperately to one day move on to California so she can outrun the past and her youthful mistake but her past finds her and will Caleb make a stand and fight for her? You'll have to read the book and see!

I loved watching the Harvey Girls movie with Judy Garland when I was a child and remember reading several adventurous stories about these young ladies clad in black and white. When Karen announced on her Posse Facebook group that she would be releasing a novella about a Harvey Girl, I knew I didn't want to miss it.

The Characters:

If you read Karen Witemeyer's More Than Words Can Say, you will have already met the heroine, Rosalind. I enjoyed reading about the life she built for herself after she left Abby and Zach and headed west. I believe we also met the leading man, Caleb Durrington, in that novel, too, but it's been a while, and my short-term memory isn't the best. Caleb's father built a legacy as a cattleman, but Caleb has followed his own calling as a western lawyer. This novella also offers a supportive cast of lovable characters, including a French chef!

The Plot:

Caleb is learning to forge his own path and make his own decisions out from under the pressure of his loving, but overbearing mother, who knows precisely the type of woman he should marry--one that would complement the godly reputation he has made for himself. He, on the other hand, has his sights set on Rosalind, who was assigned to the Harvey House close to her home, despite running from a mistake in her past for the last several years (readers of MTWCS will remember what this is).

The Romance:

I enjoyed how this novella made more of the hero and heroine's compatibility in personality, intelligence, and faith than simple physical attraction. And I appreciate that the novella doesn't completely leave out the latter, which I think lends a realistic aspect to the story. Given the plot and tones of the novella, this focus on the inner person feels appropriate. I did feel there was a slight lack of description for the characters other than eye color and her naturally curly blond hair, but with novellas, wordcount has to be considered, and I understand if some descriptions were left out in favor of character development.

The Spiritual Thread:

The subjects dealt with in this novella revolve around forgiveness and moving into a future that is not defined by another person's opinion but by God's calling on a person's life. These truths are portrayed with grace and easily translated into our modern world.

I enjoyed this novella very much and look forward to "At Love's Command," the first novel in Karen's new series called Hanger's Horsemen!

* I received a copy of this book from the publisher and have stated my own honest opinion in this review.

I love Karen Witemeyer and would almost hand over my last dollar for her books. If she's written it, I want it. This wonderful little novella is no exception! If you've read More Than Words Can Say, you know that our beloved Rosalind needs peace and freedom. It certainly wouldn't hurt to find her own version of happiness as well. In More Than a Pretty Face, Witemeyer delivers on all accounts as our Rosalind discovers a liberating love rooted in Christ. An excellent addition to the Patchwork Family series!

I received a complimentary copy of the book containing this novella from the publisher. All expressed opinions are my own.