Book MYView: In Every Heartbeat by Kim Vogel Sawyer

As three friends who grew up in the same orphanage head off to college together, they each harbor a cherished dream.

Libby Conley hopes to become a famous journalist. Pete Leidig believes God has called him to study to become a minister. And Bennett Martin plans to pledge a fraternity, find a place to belong, and have as much fun as possible.

But as tensions rise around the world on the brink of World War I, the friends' differing aspirations and opinions begin to divide them, as well. And when Libby makes a shocking discovery about Pete's family, will it drive a final wedge between the friends or bond them in ways they never anticipated?


Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of fifteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and six grandchildren.


My brief thoughts: In Every Heartbeat surprised me. The book's blurb really didn't have me interested because I thought the story was going to be predictable. But once I got into it, I couldn't put the book down. This story of forgiveness, using your gifts for God's glory, and trusting His will for your future will resonate with readers. Oh, and you know how I enjoy when the title comes to life, right? Well, let's just say a smile spread across my face.

My favorite character was Petey because he had so much to overcome with his disability and his family. Oh, my. His family. Go kiss your family members if they are just MILDLY dysfunctional. Reading about one family member of Petey's made me stop reading and be grateful. My heart ached reading some scenes.

This IS supposed to be my brief thoughts, so I'll just stop right here....after I type: I wouldn't mind catching up later with these characters in another story. Is this a series?