Shelter in the Storm

Shelter in the Storm by Laurel Blount is an emotional novel. A violent act changes a families’ life forever. We get to see how they grieve and move forward after this tragic event. We are taken to Johns Mill, Tennessee where the Hochstedler family lives on land that has been in their family for generations. Naomi Schrock offers to help the grieving family. She loves feeling helpful and doing normal activities. After a life of being ill, normalcy is welcome. I was quickly swept into this heartbreaking tale. I thought Shelter in the Storm was well-written with realistic characters. I enjoyed the setting of Johns Mill. The author’s descriptions brought the scenes alive. I found this story to be an accurate representation. The Hochstedler’s have suffered a terrible loss, but they are unable to grieve in private. The media has descended on the town causing more problems. When the family is starting to piece things back together, they are given startling news that causes them more difficulties. Each member of the family is affected differently. The romance between Joseph and Naomi is sweet. I like how the story played out. It was wonderful how the community came together to help the Hochstedler family. I am amazed at the Amish’s ability to forgive those who have wronged them. It is one thing to forgive, but you cannot forget. Living each day as it comes and enjoying the beauty around us are two themes in the book. Trusting in God’s plan is another. I like how the author tied the title into the story. Shelter in the Storm is a poignant Amish tale that will touch your heart.

Beautifully written! I just love it. Thank You for this wonderful story. May God bless You with many more stories to tell. So authentic and genuinely pure.