Sophie's Heart

Lori Wick

12/11/1999

Sophie emigrates from Czechoslovakia to the United States. Although she worked with languages in her home country, English is not one of her fluent languages. In the United States she gets a job in a restaurant as she first settles in. She finds a local Bible study group to nourish her faith.

Alec Riley's wife of 17 years is killed in a car accident. He and their three children are lost without Vanessa. They live in Northern Wisconsin. Alec finds himself staying away from home as much as possible to avoid the absence of his wife. Rita, Craig, and Tory don't want to leave the house and the unseen presence of their mother. Meanwhile, the family is barely coping.

Janet Ring, Alex's sister, meets Sophie. As she learns more about Sophie, she realizes what a special person Sophie is. God then lays a solution for her brother on her heart. She approaches Alec about hiring Sophie as their housekeeper. There is reluctance on his side, yet he does not want his children burdened any more. He agrees to take Sophie on a trial period.

Sophie wants to get out of the city and the restaurant. She loves children and jumps at the opportunity Janet offers her. When she meets the Riley family she realizes that God can use her there to help this hurting family. She has not desire to replace Vanessa Riley, but would like to help them as they adjust.

This is a charming Christian romance. The main characters all have their faith before the book starts. Instead, this novel has the characters relying on God's direction. Sophie is a strong person who does not allow others to take advantage of her. Yet she has a tender heart and is able to share it with others. This is a very enjoyable novel and it stayed in my mind when I had to put the book down. I was anxious to get back to it each time I had to walk away.

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