Meagan Myhren-Bennett

Where He Leads Desires of the Heart #1 By Lynne Lanning Lilly's early life was not too bad but then Ma died and Pa just couldn't forgive God for taking Ma and their last baby. But Lilly had Pa, her sisters, and her brothers. But then Pa got Sugar and his time was short so he made preparations and Lilly got a new home. The home Pa found for her was a loving one and she made a place for herself in the Donovan family becoming the daughter they never had. Life was good and she was able to let Pa know of the joy and eternal peace that she had found with the family he had arranged for her. The first portion of the book is focused on Lilly and her life right before leaving Pa and then her first year with her new family. This gives the reader a pretty thorough idea of Lilly's life and the strong and supportive home she moved into. The second half deals with Lilly's early adulthood and the troubles that come to her when she falls in love. But through it all she when she puts her trust in God and prays she finds peace in the midst of her trouble. The book reads at times almost like a journal. It is mostly a sweet read even when difficulties are faced by the various characters. There are moments of prejudice towards certain persons because of their relationship with Cherokees who lived in the not-too-distant vicinity. Lilly uses her time and loving concern to influence others to seek out the Lord who has comforted her over the years. Where He Leads is based upon the life of the author's own family as is explained at the conclusion of the book. This is overall a good read. If you are looking for a book with a lot of action or suspense this doesn't really offer that. There are a few tense moments that add a little to the book but nothing too long and drawn out. This is Historical Fiction with a touch of romance. I'm interested to see where this series goes. Does it continue Lilly's story? Or does it give us more about Lilly's siblings? I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.