The Hope Chest

From the beloved author of Indie Next Pick The Charm Bracelet, a story about an heirloom hope chest and the connection it inspires among three people in need of hope.

The discovery of one woman’s heirloom hope chest unveils precious memories and helps three people who have each lost a part of themselves find joy once again.

Ever since she was diagnosed with ALS, fiercely independent Mattie doesn’t feel like herself. She can’t navigate her beloved home, she can’t go for a boat ride, and she can barely even feed herself. Her devoted husband, Don, doesn’t want to imagine life without his wife of nearly fifty years, but Mattie isn’t likely to make it past their anniversary.

But when Rose, Mattie’s new caretaker, and her young daughter, Jeri, enter the couple’s life, happiness and the possibility for new memories return. Together they form a family, and Mattie is finally able to pass on her memories from the hope chest she received from her mother.

With each item—including a favorite doll, family dishes, an embroidered apron, and an antique Christmas ornament—the hope chest connects Mattie, Don and Rose to each other and helps them find hope again in the face of overwhelming life challenges.

A beautiful story about the unconditional love and support of family, The Hope Chest will remind you that hope can be found where and when you least expect it.


My Review

This is the first book I have read by this author but it won't be the last. I have talked about the importance of "character driven" storylines and if you want to know what I am talking about than you need to pick up a copy of this book.

Everyone from Mattie to Jeri were great. This includes Don and Rose. Each voice was distinct and solid. Jeri is the breath of fresh air and joy. Mattie exhibited strength and hope. Hope is a strong focal point of this book. Rose brings new beginnings. Don brought love. Love for Mattie.

This book is broken out into sections. Each section had a different theme where past and the present combined. Through these stories I was brought closer to everyone. The ending was great. I have to warn you that this book is a tear jerker. The Hope Chest will have readers applauding this joyous book filled with hope and endearing characters that will have a special place in your heart and bookshelf! Viola Shipman is in the same category as Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Picoult.

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