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Kings Meadow Romance
A Promise Kept
God was going to save her marriage, Allison was sure of it.
But neither her husband nor her marriage had been saved.
What had become of His promise?
Tony Kavanagh had been Allison’s dream-come-true. They were in love within days, engaged within weeks, married and pregnant within a year. Her cup bubbled over with joy . . . but years later, that joy had been extinguished by unexpected trials.
The day Allison issued her husband an ultimatum, she thought it might save him. She never expected he would actually leave. She was certain God had promised to heal; it was clear that she’d misunderstood.
Now living in the quiet mountain cabin she inherited from her single, self-reliant Great Aunt Emma, Allison must come to terms with her grief and figure out how to adapt to small town life. But when she finds a wedding dress and a collection of journals in Emma’s attic, a portrait of her aunt emerges that takes Allison completely by surprise: a portrait of a heartbroken woman surprisingly like herself.
As Allison reads the incredible story of Emma’s life in the 1920s and 1930s, she is forced to ask a difficult question: Does she really surrender every piece of her life to the Lord? For a woman accustomed to being someone else’s savior, that will be even harder than it sounds.
Drawing from her own heart-wrenching story of redemption, A Promise Kept is Robin Lee Hatcher’s emotionally charged thanksgiving to a God who answers prayers—in His own time and His own ways.
But neither her husband nor her marriage had been saved.
What had become of His promise?
Tony Kavanagh had been Allison’s dream-come-true. They were in love within days, engaged within weeks, married and pregnant within a year. Her cup bubbled over with joy . . . but years later, that joy had been extinguished by unexpected trials.
The day Allison issued her husband an ultimatum, she thought it might save him. She never expected he would actually leave. She was certain God had promised to heal; it was clear that she’d misunderstood.
Now living in the quiet mountain cabin she inherited from her single, self-reliant Great Aunt Emma, Allison must come to terms with her grief and figure out how to adapt to small town life. But when she finds a wedding dress and a collection of journals in Emma’s attic, a portrait of her aunt emerges that takes Allison completely by surprise: a portrait of a heartbroken woman surprisingly like herself.
As Allison reads the incredible story of Emma’s life in the 1920s and 1930s, she is forced to ask a difficult question: Does she really surrender every piece of her life to the Lord? For a woman accustomed to being someone else’s savior, that will be even harder than it sounds.
Drawing from her own heart-wrenching story of redemption, A Promise Kept is Robin Lee Hatcher’s emotionally charged thanksgiving to a God who answers prayers—in His own time and His own ways.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2014
About the author
Robin Lee Hatcher
121 books2,857 followersRobin Lee Hatcher is the author of 90 novels and novellas with over five million copies of her books in print. She is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. Her numerous awards include the RITA® Award, Christy Award, Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Reader’s Choice Award, and the Faith, Hope & Love Reader’s Choice Award, and she is also the recipient of prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards from both American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America®. When not writing, she enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, Bible art journaling, reading books that make her cry, watching romantic movies, and decorative planning. A mother and grandmother, Robin makes her home on the outskirts of Boise, sharing it with a demanding Papillon dog and a persnickety tuxedo cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
February 4, 2014
If you follow my reviews regularly, you will know that I occasionally highlight a book that touched me very deeply, and this is one such book. In fact, I cannot think of a single criticism of the book. When I was almost done, I was disappointed that the ending was going to be standard for a Christian romance, but then I threw away that mindset and found myself crying at the ending. Books that can genuinely bring me to tears are rare, but this one did.
I was captivated by the writing style. Robin Lee Hatcher chose to tell the story concurrently from three different time periods--Great Aunt Emma and Allie during her marriage and after her divorce. I never got lost, and I often looked forward to hearing more from her Great Aunt. It seems that Hatcher always hated the story at the right time--she left me hanging on several occasions. I was not always certain what would happen next, and the secrets that were revealed astounded me in the extreme.
The Christian message was strong and was woven beautifully into the narrative. More than once, the gospel message was stated. Not only that, but the Christians featured in the book made some serious errors, and God still saw them through. They may have walked away for a time, but God always drew them back. And He was content to wait until they came back of their own volition.
The personal impact of this story upon my heart and emotions was stronger than I thought it would be. I am a nine-year divorcée myself, and I could sympathize with Emma and Allie to a degree. There were a few times that I had to set the book aside as I faced emotions and thoughts that had long lay dormant. God even spoke to me as I immersed myself in Allie's tale. The author's purpose in writing this came across--God always answers but not always in the way we expect. What a glorious promise! No sappiness in this romance. In fact, it was sometimes almost too real.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I was captivated by the writing style. Robin Lee Hatcher chose to tell the story concurrently from three different time periods--Great Aunt Emma and Allie during her marriage and after her divorce. I never got lost, and I often looked forward to hearing more from her Great Aunt. It seems that Hatcher always hated the story at the right time--she left me hanging on several occasions. I was not always certain what would happen next, and the secrets that were revealed astounded me in the extreme.
The Christian message was strong and was woven beautifully into the narrative. More than once, the gospel message was stated. Not only that, but the Christians featured in the book made some serious errors, and God still saw them through. They may have walked away for a time, but God always drew them back. And He was content to wait until they came back of their own volition.
The personal impact of this story upon my heart and emotions was stronger than I thought it would be. I am a nine-year divorcée myself, and I could sympathize with Emma and Allie to a degree. There were a few times that I had to set the book aside as I faced emotions and thoughts that had long lay dormant. God even spoke to me as I immersed myself in Allie's tale. The author's purpose in writing this came across--God always answers but not always in the way we expect. What a glorious promise! No sappiness in this romance. In fact, it was sometimes almost too real.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
March 29, 2017
A Promise Kept is a stand-alone contemporary Christian fiction novel with a tiny bit of romance at the end. Allison Kavanagh, divorced a year ago from her husband of about 20 years, has moved in to the cabin she inherited from her Great-Aunt Emma in a different area of Idaho.
What I liked:
*Hatcher does an excellent job of alternating between Allison's struggles and those of Great-Aunt Emma decades ago. Hatcher manages to write each section so that it introduces a new concept or occurrence, reaches a conclusion of sorts, and yet causes the reader to want to see what happens next. This is not my favorite type of novel, but this one didn't drive me nuts.
What I didn't like:
*The novel wasn't the romance I was expecting. Apparently, that expectation was due to Amazon's and Goodreads' mistaken label.
I recommend this very clean, very well-written book to people looking for encouragement through life's difficulties.
What I liked:
*Hatcher does an excellent job of alternating between Allison's struggles and those of Great-Aunt Emma decades ago. Hatcher manages to write each section so that it introduces a new concept or occurrence, reaches a conclusion of sorts, and yet causes the reader to want to see what happens next. This is not my favorite type of novel, but this one didn't drive me nuts.
What I didn't like:
*The novel wasn't the romance I was expecting. Apparently, that expectation was due to Amazon's and Goodreads' mistaken label.
I recommend this very clean, very well-written book to people looking for encouragement through life's difficulties.
March 15, 2022
I received this book to read in 2014 and then life got busy. I moved, then started a new job, etc. I discovered I had somehow passed over this book and missed my review schedule. I tend to love Robin's books so I am glad that I kept it when I moved. This story slipped between time periods. Typically those fall flat on one side and the other character has a more pronounced story line. Yes, technically the modern character got the most dedicated pages, but I liked how Robin used the past character's diary/writings to teach the present character about decisions, regrets and also showed her how to heal. This story had a different twist on it but at the same time still had Robin's engaging writer's voice. I started it in 2020 and then life got busy again, but once I picked it up again, it held me captive until the end. There is just something special about the way the author gives you enough little details that you feel like you are actually in the story yourself as an observer. I love that.
April 13, 2014
I like Robin Lee Hatcher's strong, clean writing style. I also loved the two storyline's: one contemporary and one historical. But my favorite part of A Promise Kept was the poignant spiritual truth woven throughout the book.
June 28, 2022
A Promise Kept. A promise that God will answer your prayers. Does he answer them the way you want Him to?
Allison is a year into being divorced from alcoholic ex-husband Tony. She moves to an outskirt town near Boise, ID to her great aunt Emma's cabin who was single her whole life she knew of.
Here she finds a wedding dress and notebook journals filled with Emma's life story. She discovers she doesn't know all she thought she did of her great aunt's life. All while trying to process herself and her own marriage. Her young adult daughter, her ex and even her parents come for visits. Just when I think the daughter is being too naïve on seeming like she just wants her parents together, the dialogue moves on. Will there also be a new love interest from town?
The dual timeline is not clunky as each section has it's own nice closure but leaves wanting more to the story. The narrator did not inspire me in the beginning but ends up following through o.k.
Allison is a year into being divorced from alcoholic ex-husband Tony. She moves to an outskirt town near Boise, ID to her great aunt Emma's cabin who was single her whole life she knew of.
Here she finds a wedding dress and notebook journals filled with Emma's life story. She discovers she doesn't know all she thought she did of her great aunt's life. All while trying to process herself and her own marriage. Her young adult daughter, her ex and even her parents come for visits. Just when I think the daughter is being too naïve on seeming like she just wants her parents together, the dialogue moves on. Will there also be a new love interest from town?
The dual timeline is not clunky as each section has it's own nice closure but leaves wanting more to the story. The narrator did not inspire me in the beginning but ends up following through o.k.
June 29, 2023
I really, really enjoyed this book. I loved how Allison learned from good and godly resources around her (her aunt's journals, her friends, and most importantly Scripture) how to trust God's answers even when the fulfillment of His promises is seemingly impossible. (Side note that I LOVE how our God 'specialises' in accomplishing the impossible!)
Note that while this book is not technically part of the King's Meadow Romance series, it DOES give a bit of context for the first book in the series. My personal recommendation would be to read this novel before the others.
4.5 stars
Note that while this book is not technically part of the King's Meadow Romance series, it DOES give a bit of context for the first book in the series. My personal recommendation would be to read this novel before the others.
4.5 stars
June 17, 2015
This book was amazing! So much so, that I read it in one day. In fact, less than a day! I just couldn't put it down. I could relate with the two main characters, Emma and Allison, and their changed lived by way of the "Big D"....DIVORCE. They were both strong women, and became stronger because of the circumstances in their failed marriages. And what I liked, they also became stronger spiritually. This book touched on the importance of growing in our faith walk and relying on God's perfect timing and not our own. Emma and Allison were both determined to not give up on their ex's, and wanted to release their bitterness and anger, and replace it with forgiveness instead. I also want to mention that I liked how the author organized the story. Each chapter was titled either "Emma" or "Allison", so you knew just who was talking and the feelings they were experiencing. It definitely made it easy to understand, plus it showed the similarities of the two women in their thoughts, feelings and emotions. Five stars for this book!!!
February 3, 2014
WATCH MY VIDEO REVIEW HERE: http://youtu.be/TiBsxoac6RE
How do I begin to express what this book means to me?
Absolutely one of my all time favorite books!
I will keep this book and read it over and over, I love it so much!
I can't wait to recommend it to my friends!
This story is such a powerful reminder that God is faithful and He keeps His promises, though not always in the way we expect! Powerful, brilliant, spectacular, spell-binding!!!
How do I begin to express what this book means to me?
Absolutely one of my all time favorite books!
I will keep this book and read it over and over, I love it so much!
I can't wait to recommend it to my friends!
This story is such a powerful reminder that God is faithful and He keeps His promises, though not always in the way we expect! Powerful, brilliant, spectacular, spell-binding!!!
Read
July 18, 2016This novel is very close to my heart, inspired by read life events.
September 21, 2021
An emotional read from beginning to end! To be honest, I never quite knew which direction the author was going to take me on because it seemed unlikely that two previously married individuals would resume a relationship with each other. I'm not saying that it doesn't happen - clearly it does based on the author's notes at the end. It was just a *different* type of story than what I'm accustomed to reading in Christian fiction.
Fans of split-time fiction will enjoy this read as Allison's story parallels that of her great aunt Emma, and they shared several of the same struggles decades apart. Through it all, there was the theme of God's redeeming grace, and that if we truly listen, we can know His perfect will.
3.5 stars
Fans of split-time fiction will enjoy this read as Allison's story parallels that of her great aunt Emma, and they shared several of the same struggles decades apart. Through it all, there was the theme of God's redeeming grace, and that if we truly listen, we can know His perfect will.
3.5 stars
January 20, 2019
This was really good. I loved how it went back and forth from Aunt Emma and Allison. Aunt Emma being in the much earlier years and Allison being in current time.
August 11, 2017
I didn't like this story, especially the ending. I was hoping for a completely different outcome. The characters were okay, but no one stood out to me. I did like the setting, though. King's Meadow is always a delight to read about.
December 6, 2023
An excellent book. When a marriage is over can Allison start a new life without her husband? A hard look at divorce and how God can work with us and love us. In the book they wrote, “God hates divorce but He doesn’t hate us”. I am a divorcee and glad to see how this book represents a family during this struggle. The book is a duel timeline and both timelines are excellent. I know I’ll read more from this author. So worth the read!!!
February 7, 2018
A wonderful book with a powerful message about the personal promises of God in our lives.
February 1, 2014
Saturday, February 1, 2014
A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher, ©2013
I loved this story surrounding a promise kept. It is written reflecting protagonist Allison Kavanagh's now and her great-aunt Emma Carter's fabulous journaling Allison discovers tucked in the attic with a wedding dress and a well-preserved past.
Emma was my very favorite character and I wanted to discover more myself about her thoughts and feelings. Their lives, in a way, parallel as Allison finds Aunt Emma's writings healing for herself. I can imagine the thoughts Allison had; visiting the cabin in her youth, the inside kitchen fragrances and the crisp outdoor air on her walks, which she continues now that she is living in the cabin amid mountain forests. What a pungent aroma is imagined! I liked having Allison's pup, Gizmo, around too.
As Allison grows in her reliance on the Lord, she finds healing along the way. Forgiveness. So powerful in our own lives as well as the one offered it. Allison, her former husband, Tony, and their daughter, Meredith, share times together in a way that is refreshing and illuminating for each of them as they come to terms with their now life, separate from each other. As they accept each other and relinquish fear of the past returning, they are able to continue their path before them. I thought their daughter showed great wisdom in the way she encompassed both of her parents, not allowing their divorce to separate them as people.
Robin Lee Hatcher shares lives that are healthy and go beyond being stuck in the past. Leaning on the Lord developing trust in Him beyond all else, the outcome is beneficial to all as they journey together beyond hurt.
I was drawn to this book by the title. A Promise Kept. So important when we think our days are empty of what we had hoped and find that it is kept in the best way of all ~ for our good. A promise, a heart song. Waiting for God's best. Waiting for His timing that comes when all are ready is truly the best time of all.
~*~
Allison believes God made her a promise. So why didn't her life turn out the way she expected? Allison did everything she could do to rescue her marriage, but her husband left anyway. Their marriage is over. She retreats to the mountain home she inherited from her great-aunt Emma, a woman she thought she'd known well. But the trunks she discovers in the attic hold keepsakes, photographs, and journals that reveal secrets; and the stories of a kindred spirit. As Allison learns more about Aunt Emma's life, she also learns more about her true self; and what it means to surrender completely to a sovereign God. Heart healing and moving forward with her life; making new friends, making new plans; Allison never dreamed of the many unexpected ways God can keep His promises. --Provided by the publisher.
Bestselling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 60 novels.Learn more about Robin at: robinleehatcher.com
For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. --2 Corinthians 1:20
***Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group for inviting me to be part of the book tour for A Promise Kept and to Thomas Nelson Publishers for sending me a print copy. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher, ©2013
I loved this story surrounding a promise kept. It is written reflecting protagonist Allison Kavanagh's now and her great-aunt Emma Carter's fabulous journaling Allison discovers tucked in the attic with a wedding dress and a well-preserved past.
Emma was my very favorite character and I wanted to discover more myself about her thoughts and feelings. Their lives, in a way, parallel as Allison finds Aunt Emma's writings healing for herself. I can imagine the thoughts Allison had; visiting the cabin in her youth, the inside kitchen fragrances and the crisp outdoor air on her walks, which she continues now that she is living in the cabin amid mountain forests. What a pungent aroma is imagined! I liked having Allison's pup, Gizmo, around too.
As Allison grows in her reliance on the Lord, she finds healing along the way. Forgiveness. So powerful in our own lives as well as the one offered it. Allison, her former husband, Tony, and their daughter, Meredith, share times together in a way that is refreshing and illuminating for each of them as they come to terms with their now life, separate from each other. As they accept each other and relinquish fear of the past returning, they are able to continue their path before them. I thought their daughter showed great wisdom in the way she encompassed both of her parents, not allowing their divorce to separate them as people.
Robin Lee Hatcher shares lives that are healthy and go beyond being stuck in the past. Leaning on the Lord developing trust in Him beyond all else, the outcome is beneficial to all as they journey together beyond hurt.
I was drawn to this book by the title. A Promise Kept. So important when we think our days are empty of what we had hoped and find that it is kept in the best way of all ~ for our good. A promise, a heart song. Waiting for God's best. Waiting for His timing that comes when all are ready is truly the best time of all.
~*~
Allison believes God made her a promise. So why didn't her life turn out the way she expected? Allison did everything she could do to rescue her marriage, but her husband left anyway. Their marriage is over. She retreats to the mountain home she inherited from her great-aunt Emma, a woman she thought she'd known well. But the trunks she discovers in the attic hold keepsakes, photographs, and journals that reveal secrets; and the stories of a kindred spirit. As Allison learns more about Aunt Emma's life, she also learns more about her true self; and what it means to surrender completely to a sovereign God. Heart healing and moving forward with her life; making new friends, making new plans; Allison never dreamed of the many unexpected ways God can keep His promises. --Provided by the publisher.
Bestselling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 60 novels.Learn more about Robin at: robinleehatcher.com
For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. --2 Corinthians 1:20
***Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group for inviting me to be part of the book tour for A Promise Kept and to Thomas Nelson Publishers for sending me a print copy. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
January 28, 2014
Addiction is not choosy – it has captured victims from time’s beginnings. It can be a generational issue, spiritual issue, social issue, personal issue, and an issue all in its own. Addiction has no ethics, rules, no self-control; it holds the victim prisoners within themselves. Addiction spreads damage through the closest ones connected with the addicted. In this case the addiction is alcohol.
My personal accolades go to Robin Lee Hatcher for her bravery in sharing her intimate story of How God will answer our prayers as promised, if only we are willing to wait on His timing. Having been in the same situation during my past, I related emotionally, spiritually and commonly with Allison’s and Emma’s stories. God is always the same, he can bring us to a different place within our heart – He doesn’t change, we the victims change. That’s what I received from Ms. Hatcher’s beautiful writing of her relationship with God and her loved ones.
This reviewer will not write the details of this story except that it explains the hurt, damaged emotions and destruction of a marriage relationship due to one partner’s alcoholism; the aftermath and denial of hopes for a better future. Robin Lee Hatcher has done an exclusive on the subject, well verbalized through her own words coming from Allison and Emma’s utterances through prose.
A Promise Kept is surely a tribute to glorify God. The characters are realistically developed, talentedly personalized and lovable. This story will remain in my heart for a long time as a reminder of what God can, will and has done in my life and in others. Sharing how God creates an overcomer is exactly the point of why the book was written. When God has brought you to it, He will bring you through it. To that I might add….and to teach others how to be an overcomer. Thank you Robin Lee Hatcher for your courage and intuition to share this story in such brilliance.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
My personal accolades go to Robin Lee Hatcher for her bravery in sharing her intimate story of How God will answer our prayers as promised, if only we are willing to wait on His timing. Having been in the same situation during my past, I related emotionally, spiritually and commonly with Allison’s and Emma’s stories. God is always the same, he can bring us to a different place within our heart – He doesn’t change, we the victims change. That’s what I received from Ms. Hatcher’s beautiful writing of her relationship with God and her loved ones.
This reviewer will not write the details of this story except that it explains the hurt, damaged emotions and destruction of a marriage relationship due to one partner’s alcoholism; the aftermath and denial of hopes for a better future. Robin Lee Hatcher has done an exclusive on the subject, well verbalized through her own words coming from Allison and Emma’s utterances through prose.
A Promise Kept is surely a tribute to glorify God. The characters are realistically developed, talentedly personalized and lovable. This story will remain in my heart for a long time as a reminder of what God can, will and has done in my life and in others. Sharing how God creates an overcomer is exactly the point of why the book was written. When God has brought you to it, He will bring you through it. To that I might add….and to teach others how to be an overcomer. Thank you Robin Lee Hatcher for your courage and intuition to share this story in such brilliance.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2014
Recently divorced, Allison Kavanagh moves to the mountains of Idaho into the log home left to her by her great aunt Emma. The dissolution of her marriage weighed heavily on her heart, her conscience still pricked by the knowledge that God hates divorce. Her alcoholic ex-husband had wreaked havoc in their relationship. Her only daughter lives in Texas. Alone, she seeks resolution in her life, her faith having been destroyed along with her marriage. Through the discovery of her aunt's journals penned throughout the majority of her life, Allison begins a journey through her aunt's life that reveals secrets that lurked in her family's past.
The spiritual journey that Allison exemplifies is quite familiar, as she struggles with questions regarding whether she imagined or truly heard God's commands, and guilt regarding her failed marriage. As voiced in the book, while God hates divorce, He doesn't hate the divorced.
Allison's story is told alongside Emma's life story, alternating between the two time periods, occasionally reverting to Allison's early years with her former husband. At times I found this a bit confusing to follow, but as my reading continued their stories blended well. The author has created a very touching life history and spiritual journey through the pages of A Promise Kept. Very detailed and emotional, the story of how Allison began to rediscover her faith is heartwarming and an example for others who have faced divorce, and have lived with an alcoholic. The rediscovery of faith is a very strong point in this story of new beginnings and past heartache that have been blended into a poignant story of two very special women.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
The spiritual journey that Allison exemplifies is quite familiar, as she struggles with questions regarding whether she imagined or truly heard God's commands, and guilt regarding her failed marriage. As voiced in the book, while God hates divorce, He doesn't hate the divorced.
Allison's story is told alongside Emma's life story, alternating between the two time periods, occasionally reverting to Allison's early years with her former husband. At times I found this a bit confusing to follow, but as my reading continued their stories blended well. The author has created a very touching life history and spiritual journey through the pages of A Promise Kept. Very detailed and emotional, the story of how Allison began to rediscover her faith is heartwarming and an example for others who have faced divorce, and have lived with an alcoholic. The rediscovery of faith is a very strong point in this story of new beginnings and past heartache that have been blended into a poignant story of two very special women.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
January 19, 2017
God was going to save her marriage, Allison was sure of it. What had become of His promise?
Tony Kavanagh had been Allison's dream-come-true. They were in love within days, engaged within weeks, married and expecting a baby within a year. Her cup had bubbled over with joy . . . but years later, that joy was extinguished by unexpected trials.
The day Allison issued her husband an ultimatum, she thought it might save him. She never expected he would actually leave. She was certain God had promised to heal their marriage. Now it was clear that she'd misunderstood.
Living in the quiet mountain cabin she inherited from her single, self-reliant great aunt Emma, Allison must come to terms with her grief and figure out how to adapt to small-town life. When she finds a wedding dress and a collection of journals in Emma's attic, a portrait of her aunt emerges that takes Allison completely by surprise: a portrait of a heart broken woman a lot like herself.
As Allison reads the incredible story of Emma's life in the 1920s and 1930s, she is forced to ask a difficult question: Does she really surrender every piece of her life to the Lord? For a woman accustomed to being someone else's savior, that will be even harder than it sounds.
Alluding to a personal history never before revealed, A Promise Kept is Robin Lee Hatcher's most intimate work yet and an emotionally-charged thanksgiving to a God who answers prayers — in His own time and His own ways.
A beautiful story of love, lies, hurt, and forgiveness. 5 stars.
Tony Kavanagh had been Allison's dream-come-true. They were in love within days, engaged within weeks, married and expecting a baby within a year. Her cup had bubbled over with joy . . . but years later, that joy was extinguished by unexpected trials.
The day Allison issued her husband an ultimatum, she thought it might save him. She never expected he would actually leave. She was certain God had promised to heal their marriage. Now it was clear that she'd misunderstood.
Living in the quiet mountain cabin she inherited from her single, self-reliant great aunt Emma, Allison must come to terms with her grief and figure out how to adapt to small-town life. When she finds a wedding dress and a collection of journals in Emma's attic, a portrait of her aunt emerges that takes Allison completely by surprise: a portrait of a heart broken woman a lot like herself.
As Allison reads the incredible story of Emma's life in the 1920s and 1930s, she is forced to ask a difficult question: Does she really surrender every piece of her life to the Lord? For a woman accustomed to being someone else's savior, that will be even harder than it sounds.
Alluding to a personal history never before revealed, A Promise Kept is Robin Lee Hatcher's most intimate work yet and an emotionally-charged thanksgiving to a God who answers prayers — in His own time and His own ways.
A beautiful story of love, lies, hurt, and forgiveness. 5 stars.
January 30, 2014
This is a wonderful story that's partially based on the author and her husband! I loved the contemplative feel to this story as Allison struggles to pick up the pieces of her life after a divorce and find a new place for herself. The interweaving of Allison's story now and in the past with her great-aunt's as she reads her journals is like a beautiful tapestry that shows both the pain and heartache they went through, but also the joy and healing as they come out the other side. I really felt for both of them and there were many times I had tears in my eyes, though this story is also very filled with hope. The message of trusting God's timing and being thankful for the hard times really hit home with me. In her note to readers, Robin wrote, "God can and does work miracles...But more often than not, Jesus invites us to be yoked with Him as we walk through the fire together. He matures us in the refining process so that we might become more like him." Allison wonders if she's thankful for the hard things and disappointments in her life and I have to say I'm not. This book challenged me to look at things differently and use those hard times to draw nearer to Jesus and to know that they are just a season in life, one that God will use for my good. This is my favorite book so far of Robin's! I highly recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2014
I was thinking three and a half stars throughout most of this book, but the ending was delicious, and then I read the book was based on Hatcher's own personal experience (and she mentioned Hershey's chocolate, which was the deciding factor, obviously) so four solid stars.
The book was not filled with tension nor angst. It was not a 'grab you by the seat of your pants and never let go' kind of book, either. But the descriptions of Idaho made me long to go see a part of the country I've never been in--even in winter! And the sweet, easy telling of the story just kind of floated along like a lazy summer day. Not boring, but it wasn't rushed, either. Ideal reading for this time of year.
The ending and the Author's note were the perfect final touches. The reader is definitely left with feel-good feelings.
Thanks, Carolyn, for your recommendation!
The book was not filled with tension nor angst. It was not a 'grab you by the seat of your pants and never let go' kind of book, either. But the descriptions of Idaho made me long to go see a part of the country I've never been in--even in winter! And the sweet, easy telling of the story just kind of floated along like a lazy summer day. Not boring, but it wasn't rushed, either. Ideal reading for this time of year.
The ending and the Author's note were the perfect final touches. The reader is definitely left with feel-good feelings.
Thanks, Carolyn, for your recommendation!
January 21, 2014
I finished A Promise Kept last night and it was one of the most beautiful books I've read. It kept my attention, the characters were different, each in their own way, but did not confuse me, the story within of Emma kept me turning the pages, I loved the sections of prayer as each made me hesitate to think of my own life and say a prayers and I was so sad to see it end. You showed your true and excellent worth in this book and I can see it climbing the charts. Congratulations on such brilliant work which produced a Beautiful story.
January 24, 2014
I loved this story, loved how the two women's lives were weaved together though they were years apart, you can't help but become emotionally attached to them. Allison's healing from the resentments of years of hurt and shame is touching. Emma's story is a sad one as well but both women are strong and with God's help make it through the hardships.
Robin's writing style draws you in. That's what I love about her books!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Robin's writing style draws you in. That's what I love about her books!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2018
The cover was the first reason I picked up the book. I don't think I even read the back cover. I picked it up the other day, and the first chapter hooked me. I knew where it was headed, but the question was how was God going to do it? It's the question the characters asked as well. They don't know. None of us know how God's going to answer prayers.
This was a beautiful (mostly true) story that shows that God doesn't always give us exactly what we expect, when we expect it. Sometimes it takes a while, and it's not always an easy road. Sometimes it's messy, but all roads point to Jesus.
This was a beautiful (mostly true) story that shows that God doesn't always give us exactly what we expect, when we expect it. Sometimes it takes a while, and it's not always an easy road. Sometimes it's messy, but all roads point to Jesus.
February 22, 2014
This story was weaved so beautifully between the story of Allison and her great aunt Emma. It was a story of following God's nudging (or not) and how God doesn't always answer prayers the way we want him to.
This was my book to read by Robin Lee Hatcher and I certainly look forward to reading others.
This was my book to read by Robin Lee Hatcher and I certainly look forward to reading others.
November 30, 2014
This book was so good, I loved hearing both of these women's stories that were similar to each other. I loved how through it all these women loved and believed. The story had you guessing and wanting to read more after every page. I would definitely reccommend this book!
April 17, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. The idea of learning about your ancestors through a journal (and making a connection in your own life) was terrific. I also loved the setting, living out in the wilderness. A book I would recommend. :O)
February 28, 2019
This was a nice novel that sparked my interest, as I was waiting for another novel to present itself. I had this book in my waiting to be read pile and I thought I would read it.
I enjoy the little bits and pieces of scripture laid out in this book. Not to preaches but more settle. The author took the time to weaved in the book about how God is in control and how as us woman we struggle with letting go sometimes. I enjoy that she touche on the program CR or Celebrate Recover and laid down some of the basic rules for this program. I liked that she used the program, who struggle with codependency. I cannot overstate how well she interweaves this concept through the whole story.
The reason I gave her 4 1/2 stars is that I did not feel any conflict in the story, although it was there, it just did not catch my attention. More like an undercurrent then anything else. I do understand that most people who have been divorced for a short while would feel it more, then the people who have been divorced for years.
This is a book that could be read anywhere, on the beach, by the pool or even in your own home. It is also something you can pop in your car for the ride home. I like the author and will read books from her again.
I enjoy the little bits and pieces of scripture laid out in this book. Not to preaches but more settle. The author took the time to weaved in the book about how God is in control and how as us woman we struggle with letting go sometimes. I enjoy that she touche on the program CR or Celebrate Recover and laid down some of the basic rules for this program. I liked that she used the program, who struggle with codependency. I cannot overstate how well she interweaves this concept through the whole story.
The reason I gave her 4 1/2 stars is that I did not feel any conflict in the story, although it was there, it just did not catch my attention. More like an undercurrent then anything else. I do understand that most people who have been divorced for a short while would feel it more, then the people who have been divorced for years.
This is a book that could be read anywhere, on the beach, by the pool or even in your own home. It is also something you can pop in your car for the ride home. I like the author and will read books from her again.
August 14, 2018
I had never read Robin Lee Hatcher prior to this book. I do, however, have one of her other books on my want to read list. So when I saw this book on sale at Christian Audio, I was interested and started researching it. I quickly found out that this story is loosely based on her own personal story. That sold me on wanting to read the book and I immediately bought it!
The audiobook was very well done and kept me interested and it made it feel very personal. I felt like I was in the mountains with both Emma and Allison hearing their stories of a failed marriage and how they found healing. This is a slow book, so be prepared for that but it was anything but boring. The dual story line keeps the plot from getting monotonous and makes listening quite enjoyable! I enjoyed hearing both of their stories equally. I was also THRILLED with the ending! Now I am going to go and read Robin Lee Hatcher’s interview about this book ( I didn’t want any spoilers beforehand).
http://www.robinleehatcher.com/wp-con...
The audiobook was very well done and kept me interested and it made it feel very personal. I felt like I was in the mountains with both Emma and Allison hearing their stories of a failed marriage and how they found healing. This is a slow book, so be prepared for that but it was anything but boring. The dual story line keeps the plot from getting monotonous and makes listening quite enjoyable! I enjoyed hearing both of their stories equally. I was also THRILLED with the ending! Now I am going to go and read Robin Lee Hatcher’s interview about this book ( I didn’t want any spoilers beforehand).
http://www.robinleehatcher.com/wp-con...
January 12, 2018
So I get this is not meant to be high drama - but it is PAINFULLY slow. I thought I'd enjoy the setting (I was born and raised in Montana, and have family in Boise. Even visited there this past summer!) but honestly it could have been set almost anywhere. I did read the author's note and I understand this is a deeply personal story, and I'm delighted for the author.
But the telling is bogged down by minutiae. She presses a button on her key fob to activate the car alarm. She checks her suitcase and walks toward the gate her flight is departing from. She washes up for a meal while another person does the same in another bathroom. We're told what she needs to make s'mores. SERIOUSLY?!?!?!?!
And sadly, I was reminded why I stopped reading "inspirational fiction"
But the telling is bogged down by minutiae. She presses a button on her key fob to activate the car alarm. She checks her suitcase and walks toward the gate her flight is departing from. She washes up for a meal while another person does the same in another bathroom. We're told what she needs to make s'mores. SERIOUSLY?!?!?!?!
And sadly, I was reminded why I stopped reading "inspirational fiction"
March 10, 2018
In God Timing
1) Allison moved to a new place to begin her life anew. Yes I have done the same. I settled into life by learning to be independent and become part of your new setting & working to pay for my child & myself. 2) Before Allison moved to Kings Meadow, she had drifted away from church and other believers because she felt like a failure. No I haven't allowed my faith to “drift."3) My marriage was broken because of verbal abuse & his illness. It's kind of a little of both more Emilie marriage . Deceased now so healing is complete. A lot of times we should leave the marriage sooner because after your gone they can only blame themselves& begin to heal. Hers ended happily, but others don't only when we let go & let God have the situation that he can truly heal!
1) Allison moved to a new place to begin her life anew. Yes I have done the same. I settled into life by learning to be independent and become part of your new setting & working to pay for my child & myself. 2) Before Allison moved to Kings Meadow, she had drifted away from church and other believers because she felt like a failure. No I haven't allowed my faith to “drift."3) My marriage was broken because of verbal abuse & his illness. It's kind of a little of both more Emilie marriage . Deceased now so healing is complete. A lot of times we should leave the marriage sooner because after your gone they can only blame themselves& begin to heal. Hers ended happily, but others don't only when we let go & let God have the situation that he can truly heal!
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