When Joy Montrose received her commission to paint a mural depicting the healing miracles of Jesus at Good Samaritan Hospital, she never anticipated forming a close friendship with Evan Marshall. But the bond between the talented young artist and the gifted surgeon has grown, even though their lives are worlds apart. Now, with the family estate falling suddenly and unexpectedly into Joy's hands, she finds herself sifting not only through the memorabilia of generations but through her own heart and aspirations. Is it truly love that she feels for Evan? If so, can she at all reconcile it with the wounded healer's lack of faith in God or with her personal need for freedom to pursue her calling as a painter? In this final book in Jane Peart's beloved Brides of Montclair series, the faith and lives of an American dynasty wind to a poignant, present-day culmination as a young woman struggles with choices of love and obedience that will shapes the years to come.
Having read the other reviews here, I am looking at Montclair Homecoming as an individual book rather than a part of the series. The most beautiful part of this book is the story line about Joy's art and the healing that takes place as a result of her using her gift. I have read Valient Bride, the first of the series. I found it interesting to compare the lifestyle of the two brides, given each's time in history. With only a little knowledge of the series, I still found the stories interesting without being caught up in the dates. Peart's writing style reminds me a little of Grace Livingston Hill.
too many gaps between 14 and 15
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
I have to agree with the other reviewers that some of the dates and Joy's ancestors just don't fit. Peart did put a family tree in the back of this book, as I have been asking, but it is very slender and not comprehensive at all. However, when I finally quit reading to see if everything "fit" with the previous fourteen in the series, I really enjoyed the story. The characters of Joy, Gayle, and Dr. Wallace were thoughtfully rendered, and the initial concept, Joy's mural, does become a sort of ministry for her. Joy's journey to Montclair and her discovery of Rose's journal was riveting, and Gayle's acceptance of her slave ancestors was touching and thought-provoking. If the book is read singly, you will find it a heart-warming and enjoyable story. However, as a conclusion to such a wonderful series, I was left empty and disappointed that Montclair is now out of the family and that there are almost no Montrose/Cameron ancestors left.
Montclair Homecoming
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Jane Peart has successfully written her fifteenth masterpiece. It is now 1980, the last surviving heir to the Montrose legacy has been found. Joy Montrose is an artist, who never knew of the Montrose legacy. This book is in two parts and each part is well written. You have to read the other fourteen to understand the whole concept. It took me two days to complete the book. It is well worth anyone time to read these books. if you need direction these books will point you in the right direction. Enjoy!
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