Appalachian Serenade

Review by Abi

By: Sarah Loudin Thomas

You need a man who will challenge you, who will encourage you to be better than you are. A man who compliments you a d loves on you is a good thing, but the real prize is a man who tells you when you're wrong and when you're taking the easy way out.~ Quote from Appalachian Serenade

It's easy enough to read the blurb about this book, so I wont reiterate what it's about. I focus on the reasons why I like a book, and I certainly liked Appalachian Serenade. 

First of all, let me say a few words about the author, Sarah Loudin Thomas. She obviously has writing chops. Her words paint a picture in my mind. I could envision the little town of Wise, West Virginia and all who resided there. I chuckled while reading about the bumpy and somewhat awkward ride behind a donkey named Pauline. (Loved that part!) The main character, Delilah, is well developed. The dry goods store, where much of the story takes place, was well described and took  me right into the aisles filled with everything from buttons to farming supplies. The southern charm peppered between the pages seasons each page, and made this story melt into my heart like butter on a hot sweet potato.  All in all, the plot and development was well rounded, despite the novella length.

The attraction between the main character, Delilah Morrissey, and Wise's general store owner, Robert Thorton, is apparent from the first time they met. Despite the attraction percolating like a pot over a wood stove, they ignore their hearts and focus on business...and how Robert wants her to be a part of it. So, he hires her. 

Let's skip ahead a bit. The relationship matures, yet Robert remains steadfast in the belief that he simply doesn't need or want marriage--though he knows full well it's only because he's lost hope. He struggles daily with the truth of why he shouldn't marry, and struggles with his faith as well. 

Delilah, widowed and longing for what she never had--a happy marriage filled with a houseful of children, is torn between the developing relationship and her wary heart.

There are issues that need to be addressed, and both are waiting for the other to take the first step. (I swear, I wanted to trap them in a room and force them to face their feelings and work through their problems!)

However, in her own way, the author, Sarah Loudin Thomas, brought closure in the simmering relationship between Delilah and Robert. All the while, this writer succeeded in showing how prayers are answered…just not in the way one might expect.

I love many things about this book: The southern atmosphere, the strong characters, and most of all, how faith is a strong part in the story without being preachy. 




Book Rating: 

On the same page? 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Page count: 115

Purchase link: Amazon