A Hope Undaunted: A Novel (Winds of Change)

This book was incredible. I cried SEVERAL times! Julie Lessman's books are officially at the top of my list of favorites. I absolutely loved Katie and Luke's story and I love the O'Connor family. One of the best things about Julie Lessman's books is how close she makes you feel to the characters. So close that you tear up at the thought of the series coming to an end. This book was simply phenomenal and most definitely deserves the title of 'epic romance'. ;)

This is the first book in the Winds of Change series. I enjoyed seeing Katie transform from a spoiled brat into a young adult. Julie did a great job on this story. Every book Julie writes just keeps getting better!

Julie Lessman once again exceeds expectations!! A Hope Undaunted is the best book I have ever read! The Romantic Passion and tention keeps you at the edge of your seat! Once you pick it up you cant put it done! Job well done once again!

Where does one begin to describe the amazing talent of Julie Lessman? Whether you're looking at the character development, or the intricate details of setting, you can be sure that Julie Lessman never fails to impress!I've never been to Boston, or lived in the 1920's, but Julie makes me feel like I've been transported back in time; like I've walked right into the pages of the book. I can see the family gathered around the table, I can hear the crackle of the fire, I can feel the pain of a dear friend who has suffered a terrible loss, I can smell the sweetness of a beloved father's pipe, and I can almost taste the sweet tartness of a tall glass of lemonade. Julie's writing skills are spot on, and always leave me wanting to read more and more!Even though the story takes place in the late 1920's, you can see how this story could take place now, in present-day America. The trials that people faced then are very similar to those that many of us face now. And even though the O'Connor family is fictitious, we can come away from the story knowing that we've been shown an example of how we're to follow God's precepts in all of our circumstances. Through the lives of the characters, we can be entertained, while at the same time nurture our soul with reminders of God's love and the undaunted hope that we can only find in a relationship with Him.If you love a satisfying, well written story, filled with love, passion, excitement, twists, turns, and surprises . . . look no further! A Hope Undaunted is just what you're looking for. I highly recommend this book without any reservations! Just be sure to read Julie's Daughters of Boston series first before you dive into the Winds of Change series. You'll be so glad that you did!

What keeps a reader immersed in a story? More than just great characters that dance to life, but a passion that drives the story forward. A passion for God and the family that is held together in His love. A HOPE UNDAUNTED is just that kind of story. I admit I didn’t like the heroine Katie, much at the start, she had such a long way to go before becoming likeable. I dangled by a thread while reading, bouncing back and forth like a ping pong ball as three men battled for Katie’s affection. At one point in the novel I didn’t know which way it was all going to go and was breathless.There were moments of angst and laughter as I traversed with the characters. The O’Connors have become my family. I know and love them better, the more time I spend with them. I rejoiced and nearly cried, my heart wrenching for Katie at the crux of her relationships. But in the end my heart sang with the affection I feel for these characters. But when I closed the last page and put the book my shelf, I was saddened. To leave them behind, these characters I have grown to cherish and adore is heart wrenching. Which I must say is the best part of a truly wonderful novel. Don’t let this one pass you by! A treasure! This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.