Winter Tidings

The whole Prairie River series in one of the best I've ever read. I've loaned mine out and have bought the whole series for other children.

I bought the first of the Prairie River books for my daughter. After reading the first, I had to get the next two. Standing ovation for Kristiana Gregory! What a fabulous author to write some outstanding books for young people.

The year is 1865. Fourteen-year-old Vanessa "Nessa" Abrams feels as if she has finally found a place where she fits, in Prairie River. Mrs. Lockett has become like a mother to the young girl, and Rolly and Minnie are more like siblings to Nessa, as opposed to students. Even the boarders who come and go from Mrs. Lockett's place have become like old friends; and her relationship with Ivy only adds frosting to the cake. Yes, for once, Nessa is genuinely happy. Until the unthinkable happens, and all of the joy of Prairie River is taken from her. After growing up in an orphanage in Missouri, Nessa was forced to flee when she was betrothed to Reverend McDuff. While he was under the impression that the Lord had sent her to him, Nessa had quite a different idea, and knew that a marriage without love wasn't for her; so she fled. Now, Christmas is near, and Ness is having the time of her life. Her teaching job only gets better and better with each passing day; and the countless friends she has made in Prairie River give her something to look forward to each and every morning. But then Reverend McDuff invades her life once more. Even worse, he begins telling all of the townspeople that the two of them will soon be married. Nessa wants nothing more than to please the Lord, but she just can't find it in her heart to love this man. And now, with the townsfolk gossiping, she can't help but feel that her reputation may just be ruined here in Prairie River. The only things that manage to keep her going are Mrs. Lockett's love, her teaching career, and the freshly received letter from her Aunt Britta. Nessa realizes that the good in her life is much stronger than the bad at the moment; but she still can't help but wonder whether it's time to put Prairie River behind her. I only just recently finished A GRATEFUL HARVEST, but I loved it so much that I couldn't resist delving into the pages of WINTER TIDINGS. I'm so happy that I did. Once more, Nessa is showcased as a character you can't help but love. Her determination, faith, courage, wits, and intelligence make her a powerful role model for young/middle readers. From page one, she displays maturity that is well beyond her fourteen years; and the affection she has towards each and every person she meets is just undeniable. It was interesting to finally see Reverend McDuff up-close-and-personal; but for die-hard readers, it is also a sobering moment, as you can't help but have mixed feelings about his character. The backdrop of the winter holidays, along with the Christian undertones add a nice dimension to the tale that truly keeps you interested from beginning to end; while Kristiana Gregory's descriptive writing is beautiful and fast-paced. A cozy romp you won't be able to resist! Erika Sorocco Freelance Reviewer

The book was a gift for my daughter who has read other books in this series and quite enjoys them. She is happy to have it and is busy reading it.

Nessa continues to grow and mature into a young woman who puts her faith in God during difficult circumstances. This book will help young readers understand that everyone has challenges in life and provides insight into how one young woman faced her diffculties with God's help. The book is inspiring, a relaxing and easily read book for young adults. I recommend it heartily and look forward to the next volume of the series.