Sarah's Orphans

Heartwarming novel!

Sarah’s Orphans by Vannetta Chapman is the third book in Plain and Simple Miracles series. Sarah Yoder is twenty-three years old when her father passes away. In a way it is a relief because life was never easy when he was around. Sarah’s father had bi-polar disorder and frequently went off his medications (when he was feeling good). Three months after his death, Sarah’s mother is still withdrawn and spends most of her time in her bedroom. Sarah is busy taking care of the house (cleaning), the laundry, and the cooking for her three brothers. Andy, the oldest boy, does the work around the farm and tries to keep the younger boys (Henry and Isaac) in line (but little boys tend to be dirty and find mischief). Sarah is trying to keep up with the workload when her mother leaves (feels she needs to get away). One day on her way home from town, Sarah sees a young boy run across the road. Sarah stops the buggy to investigate. She finds Mateo and Mia. They have been hiding out since their mother left them in an old trailer several days prior. They had traveled from Texas up to Cody’s Creek. Little Mia is sick and needs care. Sarah bundles the children up and takes them home. Sarah feels called to take care of these two children. What is Sarah willing to do to keep these two children with her? Can she handle the additional burden of two children?

Paul Byler came to Cody’s Creek, Oklahoma to help out his brother after his heart attack. Paul has been working in his brother’s general store. Once his brother recovers, Paul decides to stay in the area and finds the perfect farm next to the Yoder’s. It is in bad shape and needs a lot of work, but Paul feels up for the challenge. Paul ends up spending time at the Yoder’s helping them out (and they reciprocate). Paul speaks Spanish which is a big help in communicating with Mateo and Mia. Paul admires Sarah, but he knows now is not the right time for romance (for either of them). But Paul cannot help his developing feelings for Sarah. Is there a chance of future for Paul and Sarah?

Sarah’s Orphans was a lovely story. I liked the characters, the town, and the children (especially little Mateo and Mia). It is a very inspirational story. Sarah was overwhelmed with duties, but she was not going to let that stand in her way of taking in Mateo and Mia. She knew God would work out the details. Sarah’s Orphans is well-written, engaging, and had a good pace. I finished the book in just a few hours. The romance is not the dominate part of the novel. It plays out softly in the background. I give Sarah’s Orphans 4.25 out of 5 stars (I liked it). There was a little too much of Sarah thinking and worrying, but otherwise, I truly enjoyed the book. I liked Sarah and her family. They had experienced adversity, but they did not let it keep them down (we could all learn from them). Love, family, friendship, and faith help them overcome the dark times. That God has a plan for each of us is the important lesson in this book. I look forward to reading more books by Vannetta Chapman in the future.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.