Laurie Stroup Smith

Pockets of Promise by Laurie Stroup Smith has Mariah Mast uncertain about her future. Mariah has just turned eighteen and is beginning to venture out to parties on her rumspringa. Josiah Weaver and Mariah grew up together. He has been her friend and protector since they were children. Josiah wants them to take the next step and begin courting. Mariah’s grandmother understands how she is feeling and plans a trip for Mariah to Pinecraft, Florida. She sends along a pocket quilt with inspiring handwritten notes. Mariah is thrilled for the opportunity and enjoys time with her Aunt Birdie. She makes new friends and meets a special young man. What choice will Mariah make about her future? Pockets of Promise is the first book in The Pocket Quilt series. I thought it was a charming story with engaging characters and two lovely locales. The author’s descriptions of Pinecraft and Siesta Key were spot on. I could envision Mariah taking in all the new sights courtesy of the descriptive writing. I found Pockets of Promise easy to read and with a smooth flow. I like the author’s conversational writing style that drew me into the story and kept me engaged. Mariah is just eighteen with a world full of choices. I could understand her uncertainty. Becoming baptized is a big decision and not one that can be undone without severe consequences. I loved the concept of a pocket quilt. Mariah’s grandmother (Mammi) provided Mariah with wisdom through her letters. My favorite saying from Pockets of Promise is “When we make mistakes, God uses these experiences to shape and mold us.” Mammi and Aunt Birdie were special characters who helped Mariah. Pockets of Promise is a story about friends, faith, family and the future. There is a recipe for Peanut Butter Fudge at the end of the book (yum). I cannot wait to read Pockets of Purpose, the second book in The Pocket Quilt series, which will feature Dixie Yoder. Pockets of Promise is a heartwarming story with a quaint quilt, a perplexing plight, a wealth of wisdom, a faithful family, warm weather, and a difficult decision.… (altro)