Another wonderful book from Karen! This was the sequel to “More than meets the eye”. It was Zach story. I couldn’t wait to see what happened to Zach! He was so mysterious and angry and you couldn’t help but want what his siblings had found...love! Leave it to a business contract to secure that for both Zach and Abby.
The epilogue left possibility of another book, so if that happens I can’t wait to see what will happen.

I always love a book written about a marriage of convenience. It's a part of history that is interesting, hard to imagine and a little bit crazy! These sweet characters jumped into a life together. Hardship, past struggles, an unknown need for love and a new friendship was the perfect starting point for this couple. Their journey of faith, passion and a desire for something more was pleasure to read.

MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY by KAREN WITEMEYER is beautiful love story, with very real characters that you won't forget in a hurry. You can feel their joys and sorrows as well as see the Lord at work in their lives. The book follows More Than Meets The Eye, also well worth reading, but can be read as a stand alone.
The story starts in the small town of Honey Grove in 1896, with Abigail Kemp having to make a plan to save her bakery, where she and her beautiful younger sister, Rosalind, make a living.
There is so much in this book, but mostly it is about a marriage of convenience which turns into so much more. There are secrets, there is intrigue, romance and fierce loyalty towards family, which make for an interesting read. The importance of forgiveness, especially towards one's self, and the acceptance of the Lord's forgiveness, is also addressed. I love the author's humour - she has such a great way of writing!
I am not going to tell you any more in case I spoil the read for you.
I really cannot recommend this book highly enough for the heart warming story and good Christian message running through it.
i was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are copletely my own.

My Review:

Genre: Historical, romance, western, Christian fiction.

My Rating: 4 stars.

My Recommendation: 16-18 up, warnings below.

My Favorite Character/s: Zach, the gruff older brother from the first book in the series. I've been waiting for more about him since I read the first book. Zach is one of many of Witemeyer's heroes that I loved getting to know as he made choices that he thought was right but may have had harsh consequences. Zach is also my second favorite male lead character of the author's - my first being Gideon Westcott in Head in The Clouds which is my favorite of all Karen Witemeyer's books.

My Verse for Zach is Romans 10:9
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (King James Version.)

My Thoughts: Witemeyer is my go-to author for humorous and faith-filled stories of love. And this one no different! It was sweet, funny, and yet serious. This was so good and I loved it so much and am forcing myself not to reread it now. *sighs*

Warnings: A character had in the past made some bad choices and there are some mentions of it as the book goes on. I suggest that if you're under 16/17 you have a friend or parent read it first. It isn't that it is shown over much but that it isn't something that you will want to read.

I received this book in exchange for my honest review and am truly happy to provide it.

Review to post on my blog on May 31st 2019.

I loved this book! I loved the marriage of convenience store, but I also loved the theme of forgiveness.

One of the reasons I read Christian Fiction is because it includes spiritual truths. This book was full of reminders to trust God and also that he can forgive anything if we ask. Both are truly important reminders.

I also appreciate the clean romance. This one was full of heated kisses, some flirting, and lots of love. It was an especially good romance to watch unfold. Probably one of my favorites in historical fiction lately.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

The town council has told Abigail Kemp that she may not own and run her families bakery. She must either go in business with a man or close her business down. Abigail refuses to give up her business that easily. Abigail comes up with an idea to keep her business and have a man's name on the deed without giving up her freedom to run it the way she wants.



Zacharias Hamilton is enjoying his freedom. Having raised his adopted brother and sister from the time he was 13 Zachary is enjoying his crusty bachelorhood with nobody demanding anything from him. When Abigail comes to him with a proposal he is all set to tell her NO, until her sister comes to him and begs him to change his mind. Zach tells himself he can't resist helping a woman in distress, but Abigail's dimples don't hurt the deal much either.



It doesn't take long for Abigail's business deal with Zach to turn into affection and caring on both their parts. But does their relationship even have a chance with both of them keeping secrets?



First off I really love Zach and Abigail. I love how Zach wanted to take care of Abigail and her sister from the beginning. He was honorable and treated her well. Abigail in turn did the same for Zach. She fed him, made sure he was comfortable, supported him. She even cared for his spiritual well-being in that she wanted to help him heal from his childhood. I did have a few issues though with the story. I felt like a lot of time was spent on the two characters wanting to cement their relationship physically but things kept getting in the way. And then I really had an issue with Zach's referring to God as The Big Guy or The Big Man. It is a huge pet peeve of mine to have God referred in such a casual or cavalier way. It is so disrespectful and dishonoring and Zach's character did it a lot. I understand that he was unpolished etc. but as I said, it is a pet peeve. Moving on. I also had an issue with the author constantly referring to Abigail as too curvy or pudgy or round or any reference to her weight. I understand that that is what was part of Abigail's insecurity, but it seemed a trifle over-done. The rest of the story I totally enjoyed. I found myself getting very angry at the antagonist of the story, former friend Sophia. I could never have been as patient as Abigail was, but I loved the way she finally found her confidence to stand up to her. I loved seeing Zach's brother and sister from MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE and seeing how they were doing. I hope there will be another book in the series so that we can find out how Abigail's sister Rosalind does as she leaves the nest. A sweet romance, a bit of danger and a happy ending, made this reader very content.

I have truly enjoyed every Karen Witemeyer book, but this one was over the top! I think I can confidently say this is her most romantic book to date. This book held all the elements of a great book.....a bit of intrigue, humor, historical detail, a lesson to be learned, and of course the sweet romance. There were a couple of things that sent this story into a bigger and better territory for me. Number one, these characters were very real, which I feel like Karen has done before, but maybe on a bigger scale in this story. Number two, I felt I could relate to many of the situations and raw emotions dealt with in this story. And number three, the Faith content in this tale was out of this world! I felt the characters growing, but more than that, I felt myself growing in the Lord right alongside them. What an awesome, tangible thing to read a book by an author you can trust to include God's Word and Truths in a world where that may not be how it is always done even when it should be. I am abundantly grateful for that! I thank God for authors such as Karen who follow His leading.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.

Wow, where to start? This book was a great mix of charming and romantic. I loved the bakery setting. The love interest doesn't disappoint. The sisters where highly believable.

I've been a Witemeyer fan for years and I highly recommend this one, as well as, all of her books!

I loved this book!!!! I really enjoy a marriage of convenience story line and this one was probably the vest I have ever read. I loved that it was a Christian book but the husband was open, yet respectful, about wanting a real marriage. I thought the author did a perfect job of showing that you have can have love and desire and all those intimate things in a Christian book and still have it be clean and appropriate.

Abigail wants to continue to run her bakery after her father dies, but the city council has told her she can't run it without taking on a male business partner. She has a better idea -- she will get married and make her husband the owner of record. One of her customers, Zach, seems like the ideal candidate. We met Zach in a previous book by this author concerning the Orphan Train and a trio of orphans who escaped a train wreck and set out together to live on their own.

Someone wishes her ill and even after she and Zach tie the knot, things continue to happen. This is the story of how they triumped over that with God's help and the assistance of some special friends and customers.

I loved this book! It was fun to read. I received an e-version of the book from Bethany House through NetGalley for the purpose of providing a review. It was my pleasure! I highly recommend this book and this author.

I adore Karen Witemeyer’s writing and More Than Words Can Say exceeded all my expectations. Funny, sweet and deliciously romantic, this story of resilience, family and love was wonderful from beginning to end.

Abigail will do anything to save her bakery and the livelihood of both her sister and herself - even if it means a marriage of convenience to satisfy the backwards ruling of the town council. When Abby asks Zach Hamilton - lumberjack, brooding type and overly handsome - to marry her she isn’t surprised when he initially turns her down. Even more surprised when he later agrees to her business-partner-based marriage. But as threats to the newly formed family arise, Abby and Zach will have to decide if building their marriage is worth revealing the secrets of the past.

More Than Words Can Say has so many ticks in the pros column:
Written by Karen Witemeyer (one of my favourite historical Christian romance writers). Tick
Marriage of convenience story. Tick
Story about baking (food. I’m a fan). Tick.
Story about a headstrong, courageous and independent woman. Tick.
Story about a strong, happy-as-a-bachelor, protective man who falls for the headstrong woman. Tick.

“Choosing a husband was much like choosing a good baguette.” And that quote pretty much sealed my love for this book - and that was only the first few pages. I adored every humour-laced, secret sharing, will-they-won’t-they, steamy, swoon-worthy, delicious moment of More Than Words Can Say. I loved the historical town setting. Loved the characters, from strong yet vulnerable Abby to protective but surprisingly loving Zach. I loved the story of arrangement of convenience to love and every tense, tantalising moment in between.

If you are a fan of Witemeyer’s books or a keen newcomer, you are sure to delight in More Than Words Can Say.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer is the eagerly awaited sequel to her book More Than Meets the Eye, which I recently read and thoroughly enjoyed (See my review for that here: More Than Meets the Eye Review  .  I am thrilled to have the opportunity to continue this series (A Patchwork Family) and read another work by Ms. Witemeyer. Before I begin my reasons for recommending this book, I must disclose my bias and say that Karen Witemeyer is definitely one of my top three favorite authors. I was introduced to the genre of Christian fiction by her books, specifically her hilarious and sweet Short Straw Bride, and continue to enjoy each of her individual novellas, books, and series.
More Than Words Can Say continues the tale of the three siblings joined not by blood but by choice and tragedy, the Hamiltons.  This book hones in on the oldest and least talkative of the siblings, Zacharias Hamilton. After dealing with his past and finally opening up to his siblings, Zach leaves the family farm to find his own place and way of life. He ends up in Honey Grove, a small rural town working at a lumberyard and living a simple life of bachelorhood.
Zach is simply minding his business one day at work when the local baker, Miss Abigail Kemp shows up with a very peculiar proposal.  Miss Kemp asks Zach to assist her in her quest to keep her bakery. Due to some meddling of the townspeople and an archaic city ordinance disqualifying women from owning a business in Honey Grove, the judge told Abigail that she would need to partner with a male financial backer or close the shop by the end of the month(in just five days). Scratching your head yet?  Zach certainly was at this point, but then Abigail shocked him with a marriage proposal!  While it would definitely solve the problems for her bakery, this marriage of convenience would create a pile of other issues.  Zach declines her offer, but then as he considers her predicament and her need, he is drawn to help her and protect her and her sister from the many dangers they are facing.
Zach and Abigail get married quickly and begin a tenuous friendship, hardly knowing anything about each other besides their work ethic and character.  They must face many issues as part of a small town, the busybodies, gossips, slander, and even sabotage, not to mention the great awkwardness of a life-long marriage initiated by a business contract. Is it possible to overcome the plenitude of hurdles that Zach and Abigail have in their path?  Can they learn to trust one another with the ghosts of their past?  What will happen to Abigail's bakery?  Will the town shut it down?  Will the new Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton survive the many attacks they face?
I greatly loved each of the main characters, Zach, Abby, and Abby's younger sister Rosie, not to mention Zach's siblings from the past book: Evie, Seth, Logan. Each character of Ms. Witemeyer's creation has genuinely realistic characteristics, flaws, and struggles. While this book isn't set in modern society, the difficult situations faced by these characters have very similar applications to our modern day.  I also appreciated the fierce love (and, to be honest, the arguments) between Abby and Rosie, showing true family loyalty, love, and protection. I also appreciated how Zach protected and watched out for his new wife's younger sister Rosie. Rosie, Zach, and Abby are a fierce trio, so when it comes time for them to face difficulties, they pull together in a remarkable way that is so refreshing to see, especially with the way modern society has tended to de-emphasize the family relationships.

Not only were the characters in More Than Words Can Say very wholesome and easy to relate to, but the adventurous plot, real-life struggles, sly antagonists, and struggles and triumphs of faith also completed the excellence of this story. I absolutely enjoyed this book.  The characters were genuine, the plot was unique and entertaining, and the overall effect was refreshing. Overall, I would highly recommend this book with no hesitation.  I hope you have the chance to pick it up and enjoy!

More Than Words Can Say is a delightful novel by Karen Witemeyer. I have thoroughly enjoyed every book written by Ms Witemeyer. She has a way of expressing a story that makes her characters feel real.

This story, of a marriage of convenience to save a family business, was intriguing. The story of Zach and Abby and the contract they agree upon, contains some humor plus romance.There is a tension that runs throughout with someone who wishes harm to come to Abby. But she is always gracious and kind. This was in inspiring story where with God's help, trust and forgiveness overcomes hatred and evil. I would recommend this book as I think it is a very enjoyable read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

More than Words Can Say is another wonderful novel in Karen Wittemeyer's Patchwork Family series. In this novel, readers are treated to the story of Zach Hamilton and Abby Kemp.
After her father dies, Abby Kemp wants nothing more than to continue running his bakery to honor his legacy and provide for her sister. Unfortunately, the town council has invoked an outdated law that forbids female business owners. Rather than selling out, Abby determines to find a solution. Her unconventional solution is to propose to the dark, handsome, and , according to her sister, slightly scary, Zach Hamilton. All Zach wants is his freedom, but he finds himself drawn to Abby, and her sister's pleas seal the deal. Together, Abby and Zach face the town and the foe determined to destroy Abby's business, and together they learn what it truly means to trust God and to love one another.
In this novel, readers will find Karen Wittemeyer's characteristic wittiness and ability to craft a sweet love story, while pointing readers toward God's faithfulness. What I love most about this book is the fact that both Abby and Zach, though they are bound up in their preconceptions based on their past experiences, refuse to be ruled by them. They fight for each other and for truth instead of letting appearances determine their actions. A great read!

It took me a while to figure out that the hero of this story was Zach Hamilton, adopted big brother to Evie and Seth, from More Than Meets the Eye, a book I reviewed quite a while ago. Once I had that figured out the read was so much more enjoyable having had the chance to learn his history before I cracked open this book. That being said, I don’t think one would have much of a challenge getting into the story without having read the previous book. The author gives enough backstory in all the right places as to not break up the pace of the story.
Zach Hamilton has relocated to Honey Grove, TX, and finally enjoying his freedom as it were as a bachelor. Having seen his responsibilities through in caring for his adopted brother and sister, both of whom are happily married to other people, Zach now seeks to only have to care for himself. His quiet life, and morning routine of sticky buns and a cup of coffee at his favourite bakery, takes a wild turn when Abigail Kemp confronts him with a business proposition he’d like to refuse.
Abigail Kemp has been successfully running her deceased father’s bakery for some time now and is still grieving his passing three months later. When an archaic law is enforced, Abigail has one decision to make, find a man willing to put his name on the bakery’s deed or risk losing everything she’s worked hard to keep.
What starts as a marriage of convenience, turns into a beautiful story of faith, forgiveness and love.
I didn’t know really what to expect when I started reading this latest upcoming release. I’d found with the past couple of books I’d read by Karen Witemeyer that they were starting to sound the same. Main characters would have the same body language and would react predictably, but this book felt fresh and different. What I really appreciated I think the most was that Abigail is a plump woman and conscious of her “belly and caboose”, a welcome change to the predictably skinny and beautiful heroines we get used to seeing. What Abigail feels she lacks in beauty, she more than makes up for in business savvy, brains, and compassion for the less fortunate. Abigail’s character felt real and relatable.
Zach continues his struggle with his background but Abigail helps him to come to terms with it, and points him back to God. Her background holds a similar type of trauma that haunts Zach, but through her example he is able to face his past and move on to his future with Abigail.
There are a lot of kissing scenes, though they are kept chaste. After all, this arrangement is a business one…in the beginning. The romantic tension definitely increases until our main characters reach their happily ever after. Sub-plots abound and create an interesting redemption story for Zach.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this newest book in The Patchwork Family Series.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Fun book! Second in the series, More Than Words Can Say tells Abby and Zach's stories. Abby has recently lost her father. The town enforces an out-dated law that requires all local businesses to be owned by men - NOT women. At the risk of losing her father's bakery, Abby has to find a mate - QUICKLY. She chooses three men and proposes to Zach first. Zach has to decide whether or not it is worth giving up bachelorhood to marry Abby or not. Fun historical romance filled with sibling interaction and forgiveness from surprising areas.

I give this one a very enthusiastic five stars! I think this is the best Karen Witemeyer book yet.

Abby Kemp needs a man. Any man will do, as long as he's willing to put his name beside hers on her bakery's deed. After her father's death, the city council barely gives her time to grieve before attempting to enforce a little-known law that women are not allowed to own businesses on Main Street in the town of Honey Grove. Put on the books to close down a brothel, Abby is furious that the council won't budge for her. Facing pressure from all over - from those who want to swoop in and buy her out, to one very malicious former friend - Abby digs in and considers her options. Marriage would be the ultimate solution, but with only three unmarried candidates in town, and two of them completely unpalatable, can she talk handsome Zach Hamilton into being her convenient husband?

Zach Hamilton is finally free. No longer responsible for his adopted sister and brother, he can do whatever he wants. With no woman to tie him down, he enjoys his bachelor life. If it's a bit lonely, he can deal. His morning sweet rolls at A Taste of Heaven, served by the lovely Abby, is his once concession to being alone. When Abby approaches him, contract in hand, and tells him her dilemma, he gives her a hard NO, but when her sister, Rosalind, comes to him later and explains that, of Abby's three choices, he is the only one equipped to keep her safe from the danger that Rosie has possibly stirred, he reconsiders. His only request is that, if they do marry, it becomes a real marriage, not one of those "in name only" things.

As Abby and Zach interact, their care for each other grows. Can Abby begin to see herself through Zach's eyes, and believe that he finds her beautiful, even when she never has seen herself that way? Will Zach realize that sometimes, a woman needs words, not just action, to tell her she is loved and cared for?

More than Words Can Say is actually a sequel to More than Meets the Eye, and is book #2 in the Patchwork Family series. Abby has been convinced for years that she is the fat, ugly duckling sister, and that no man in his right mind would look her way. Her father only valued boys, and his desire for a son eventually killed her mother. Why would she ever choose to tie herself to a man? Zach has been caring for two younger children since he was 13, so he doesn't want to marry either. I loved how, when he finally decides to go along with Abby's scheme, Zach is all in. No doubts, just looking ahead.

Sweet romance readers will love this one. I know I did! The marriage of convenience trope is well done, and there's enough mystery in each of their histories to spice up the story. I definitely recommend, and if you haven't read More Than Meets the Eye yet, start there to get some of Zach's back story.

All Abigail Kemp wants to do is to keep her bakery shop open. It is just her and her younger sister Rosalind. Her father had died a few months earlier. She was a skilled baker having being trained by her father who owned the shop. Her fat Because of some asinine country law that states a female cannot own a business she must come up with a solution. She refuses to sell the shop. Her only other option is to find someone to marry. She has three choices. Zach Hamilton reluctantly agrees to marry her. He wants a real marriage so he courts her while living in the same dwelling. He was quite the gentleman never pressuring her for anything but he did want that goodnight kiss which she quite enjoyed. There was a female character in the book that kept causing trouble for Abigail. This particular person managed to create quite a bit of drama.

Other things I loved about the book beside the growing romance between Abigail and Zach was the appearance of Zach's siblings at the wedding. His sister gave Abigail some good advice about Zach being a man of few words. I also like Rosaline. She was considered the pretty one while Abigail was had more girth to her waistline. We will be seeing Rosaline in a novella come Fall 2019. I had a feeling at the end of the book the author was setting Rosaline up for her own story so I went to Karen Witemeyer's web page and sure enough Rosaline's story which will be called More Than a Pretty Face will be part of the Serving up Love novella collection.

Thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for providing me an e-copy of this book to read and review. This book will be released on June 4, 2019. Highly recommended!

A marriage of convenience turns into a story of passion between Zacharias and Abigail. Wow! Karen Witemeyer really turns up the heat in More Than Words Can Say. The plot, of course, captured my attention because I wanted to know what would happen to Abigail's bakery, but the tension and heat between the two sparked most of the story. So if you are not a fan of a lot of romantic tension between the heroine and hero than you might want to hold off on reading this book. I'm not, but overall, I enjoyed this latest book. I loved how Witemeyer showed their friends and family who supported them. I also enjoyed how she allowed the heart of both characters to shine on the page. Either through their deeds done for others or the actions they went through to woo the other person. There was a huge moment of both characters being vulnerable and laying their hearts on the line for the other person to realize what secrets from the past they were dealing with. But like any good marriage, both partners have to take the good with the bad. The marriage vow does say for better or for worse. Overall, More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer has a lot more romantic spark than most Witemeyer books I have read, and I haven't read them all yet. But the transforming power of love is definitely worth sticking around and engrossing a reader in for a couple of hours. If you enjoy Julie Lessman's western series, than this might be the type of book for you.

I received a complimentary copy of More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

More Than Words Can Say is a cute light romantic read. This is my first read from Karen Witemeyer and I was not disappointed. It is nice to see a heroine who is not perfectly beautiful but gorgeous in her own way.

I was excited for More Than Words Can Say as soon as I finished the first book in the Patchwork Family series by Karen Witemeyer. It is rather unique series in my opinion and I really enjoyed More Than Meets the Eye so I couldn't wait to read the newest book in the series! Here are my thoughts on what was great about this book.

I really enjoyed reading about Zacharias Hamilton's loyalty and service towards those who belong to him. In the first book, he was one of my favorite characters and his character is revealed even more in More Than Words Can Say because the focus of the story is on him.  I loved how he didn't say much (hence the perfect title) yet he showed his love in so many ways.   I also enjoyed the look into what a bakery would be like in the late 1800s. I could smell the scent of freshly baked treats coming from my kindle as I flipped the pages. If you want to grab a cinnamon roll or a slice of freshly baked bread to munch on while you read, I won't blame you! I thought that More Than Words Can Say was a fun, cute romance with the perfect title! 

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romances and marriage of convenience stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

(4.5 stars) - a reminder that love is primarily a verb

A Karen Witemeyer book is always guaranteed to leave me with a smile that won't let go. This one was certainly no exception.

This story is the follow-up on what happened to Zach after the first book about Eva & Logan, "More Than Meets the Eye". Even though I generally hate reading books out of order, this is one that works just fine as a stand-alone.

Abigail & Zach take a while to figure it out, but they are perfect for each other. Zach has been thru a lot of abuse in his younger years to the point that he has been conditioned not to express himself. Abigail has been thru a form of abuse herself from an emotionally unavailable father. She's better able to express herself but the experience helps her to be more sympathetic and open to Zach's efforts.

The two have some difficulty understanding each other, but the key is that they care enough to keep trying - and giving the other room to try, and make mistakes, and to clarify as needed. Because of their efforts, they learn to understand each other better, with and without words.

Most importantly, Zach & Abigail learn to communicate love to each other by their actions. Their marriage of convenience becomes a real marriage.

The story is funny and touching and I became invested in it almost immediately. I fervently hope that the author will be sharing Rosalind's story with us next!

Clean romance level: passionate kissing, some discussion of marital intimacy but nothing graphic

[This is a Christian book with discussion of God, forgiveness, Scripture and prayer. It fits the setting & the context in a natural, non-preachy way]

True to the late 1800's, this novel tells the life of a young woman about to lose her family business because she's a woman. Abigail enters into a marriage of convenience with Zach to save her bakery. Both have been hurt in the past by their fathers and are leary of marriage. This story shares the historical view of a small town in Texas but greatly emphases the subject of forgiveness. Recommended.

Tender Story of Two Unlikely Characters Perfectly Brought Together

Honey Grove, TX 1896
Abigail Kemp is running a bakery with her pretty younger sister, Rosalind, as she has been doing for quite some time. However, now that her father has passed, “somebody” has dug up an antiquated city ordinance that does not allow women to own a business. “These stuffy male councilmen might want to hold her down, but like a well-made bread dough, she planned to rise to the occasion.”

Zacharias Hamilton is finally free to do as he pleases. He has fulfilled his obligations to his adopted siblings and moved away from near-by Pecan Gap to start fresh. He has carved a niche at the local lumber mill and keeps to himself as much as possible, save for a corner table at the local bakery where he enjoys coffee and sticky buns every morning and the occasional run-in with his boss’s passel of kids. Life is pretty comfortable now. Although his past deeds still haunt his thoughts. When Abigail approaches Zach with a proposition, he nearly chokes over her business plan. But, after some thought, he might consider it, with a few tweaks to her contract.

This was a wonderful, feel-good read. I really enjoyed getting to know Zach more. He is somebody special. He’s a bit gruff, but he feels deeply. He is a champion when needed and fights hard to overcome obstacles, even the unseen ones of foolish female hearts. I appreciated that Abigail was not the typical size 2, but a curvy, kind soul with a lot to offer. Both characters came to know each other and fit so perfectly together, in a way only God could have orchestrated.

I also liked learning about how Davy Crockett was responsible for naming Honey Grove in real life. Apparently, he set up a camp under the trees on his way to the Alamo and enjoying it so much, he carved his name in a tree along with the name Honey Grove, intent on returning there one day. Sadly, he did not survive the Alamo, but a friend, Sam Erwin purchased the land and honored the name.

Humorous Tea Moment: “One sat by the window. Bran muffin and tea with sugar. Man and muffin shared a remarkable resemblance – both a bit squatty and thick around the middle with smooth, round tops.”

I highly recommend this 5-star story and look forward to the next one. Thank you to Bethany House Publishing who sent me a review copy. My opinion is my own without expectation or compensation.

Award-winning & bestselling author Karen Witemeyer “writes historical romances because she believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters”. She is one of the sweetest authors you can connect with! You may do so at: http://www.karenwitemeyer.com/ or at: The Posse FB group fan page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1839437643052460/ where the ladies in the group build community like no other group I have experienced! Truly a blessing.
Patchwork Family Series:
1 - More Than Meets The Eye 6/5/2018 – 5 STARS
2 - More Than Words Can Say 6/4/2019 – 5 STARS
2.5 - Serving Up Love: A Harvey House Brides Collection expected 11/5/2019

...my thoughts...

More Than Words Can Say, Karen Witemeyer's book #2 in A Patchwork Family Novel series is entertaining, heartwarming and full of surprises. Zach and Abigail are bound to capture your heart. All the foibles they manage to get through make them as believable as your neighbor. There is a depth of character, though, that the reader goes through as the story reveals more of what they have both experienced while growing up.

I found this book is as serious as it is amusing. It shows that life can throw curve balls, but it is how you handle them that either gives you mettle or makes you bitter and withdrawn. When Abigail is faced with trial after trial at the expense of an unforgiving former friend, she relentlessly moves forward as she prays for God's guidance. When she is finally faced with the possibility of losing her business through a long forgotten law, she garners all resources and meets the challenge head on. Only her head is very in touch with her heart, and as the story goes along, her heart warms to the idea that she does not have to take charge of everything on her own. Her resilience, faith and growing love for Zach make this book one that you will want to have in your "To Read" pile.

Many thanks to Bethany House for providing me with an advanced copy of More than Words Can Say, although I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. To learn more about award winning author Karen Witemeyer, check out her website! If you are like me and enjoy reading a series from the beginning, here is a link to my review of Karen's first book in the series: More Than Meets the Eye.

Karen Witemeyer is a witty award winning writer who always delivers an amazingly fun read! More Than Words Can Say is the second book in the Patchwork Family series. It can be read as a stand alone. I have not read the first book, More Than Meets The Eye, and I was able to jump right into this book. There is a little bit of backstory mentioned from book 1, but not having read the book did not detract from this book at all. It has been a while since I've read a book by Karen Witemeyer and I was looking forward to reading her signature humor and page turning adventurous romance. More Than Words Can Say did not disappoint. Marriage of Convenience stories are always a wild ride as husband and wife learn to live together and hopefully love one another. In addition to the fun romance there is a powerful message of not believing the negative voices and the lies we tell about ourselves, but instead hearing and seeking out the voice of God who tells us we are created and loved by Him. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy clean romances and light-hearted, fun reading.

More Than Words Can Say will be available for purchase from your local or online book retailer on June 4, 2019.

Thank you Bethany House and Net Galley for the free copy of More Than Words Can Say. The opinions expressed here are my own.

Once again Karen Witemeyer has managed to bring together an unlikely pair that ended up being the perfect match. Despite his flaws, I developed a fondness for Zach in the first book of this series, and that only grew more with this one. As a woman in today's modern age I was intensely angered with the injustice that Abby was handed simply because of her gender. It didn't take me long at all to be rooting for things to work out for this unlikely duo.

The character development overall in this series is nothing short of masterful. The mood and energy of the interactions between the characters (leading or supporting), are easily visualized by the reader's understanding of their personalities and backstories. This is one of those books that is easy to escape into and forget you aren't actually standing in the middle of a bakery with real people. Even when it came to the antagonists in this story, you were still able to develop a level of empathy for them which only draws you deeper into their world.

It was quickly observed that life had dealt Abby a difficult hand. She spent the earlier part of her life trying to prove her worth to her father considering she wasn't the son he'd always wanted. After his passing, she fought to continue to run his bakery and remain profitable, only to be told she wasn't allowed to simply because she was a woman. The injustice is palpable, but the fight in her was strong. The more the story progresses the more you hope for her happiness and a relationship she can find love and security in.

I loved this novel, and highly recommend to historical romance fans. While I believe it could be read as a stand-alone, Zach was a large presence in the first book as well and to grasp the fullness of his character I think it would be helpful to read the books in order.

*I received a copy of this book through CelebrateLit. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

Set in 1896 Honey Grove, Texas I found this to be a delightful story that held my attention. According to the author’s notes there was such a town and many of the real people and their businesses were portrayed in the story. This makes the fiction more fun and realistic.
Abigail, Rosalind and Zach were fictional characters but were brought to life by the words of Karen Witemeyer. In trying to save her bakery, willed to her by her father, Abigail had to find a husband quickly. City ordinances did not allow a woman to own a business but she could keep the bakery if the deed was in a husband’s name. Of her three candidates Zach seemed the most appealing but she had to convince him to go along with her plan.
There were also secrets alluded to by all three of the main characters that shaped their adult lives. I enjoyed the references to seeking God and his plans for their lives. Heartache can be sometimes avoided if you give God complete control but of course that didn’t happen right away.
Abby had a nemesis in the mayor’s wife Sophia, who spewed gossip and threw obstacles at her. Every great story has to have a token villain and she fit the bill perfectly.
And I found the romance aspect to be so special and tender. The love had to grow over a period of time.
My mouth kept watering for the taste of the baked goods described in the book. It made me want to go and seek out a local bakery and indulge.
I throughly enjoyed devouring the story that was a fast read for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through Celebrate Lit and Netgalley but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.

A sweet story, well written, engaging and entertaining.
I liked the characters, the plot, and the style of writing.
Recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

There are a few authors whose books I will pick up every time I see them. Karen Witemeyer is one of those authors. Her newest novel came up on my TBR pile (there is a certain order I read books in, so it was Karen's turn). Karen's characters are real, her settings are key to the plot, and her pacing is absolutely perfect.

Abigail's father has died and the city council has decreed that she sell her bakery, get a partner to put on the deed, or close down the bakery entirely. She's been given a month to fulfill the terms set out before her. She decides to ask a man to marry her in name only. She has three men in mind, including a couple of milquetoasts and a lumber man. Her sister thinks she should go after the lumber man because he's the scariest one of the men.

Abigail has written out a contract detailing what will be the terms of the marriage. Zach Harrison is the lumber man and he reads the terms and adds one of his own. She must give him a goodnight kiss every night.

One of the things going on is a former friend of Abigail's is causing trouble and was trying to close her down. Zach and Abigail make a great team in getting things done and getting the conundrum figured out.

This is a five-star book, with two thumbs up, and a fresh baguette straight from the oven.

Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the galley I got to read. My thanks goes to them.

“From her place behind the Taste of Heaven Bakery’s counter, Abigail eyed the three matrimonial candidates breakfasting in her small eating area. None of them knew they were matrimonial candidates, of course. If they did, they’d probably knock one another over in a race for the exit. Thankfully, their ignorance was to her advantage” (location 181). The ensuing descriptions of the candidates had me laughing out loud. This book got off to a great start. I was drawn in immediately and loved the witty language and humor.
Witemeyer does a great job with her characters. They are flawed and real. I felt for them as their struggles were revealed and it was so nice to see people respond well to difficult revelations. I appreciated how Abigail and her sister cared for one another and for how Zach takes his responsibilities so seriously right from the start. On the other side, the mayor’s wife ranked high on my “people I’d most like NOT to meet” list. She was truly wicked and meanspirited.
I would highly recommend this book and this series. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Patchwork Family Novels:
Book 1: More Than Meets the Eye
Book 2: More Than Words Can Say

More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer is the second book in the Patchwork Family. I was really excited to read this book, after reading the first book, More Than Meets the Eye. I really enjoyed the story of the found family. Zach, Seth and Evie were so cute and they really cared about each other.
In this second book, we follow the events right after the first., Zach has left and come to a new town, where he works as carpenter. Amelia, our new character, is a baker. She runs the bakery with her sister, after the death of her father. Through a law brought up unexpectedly, she must give up her bakery, or join with a male partner. This brings the two together and so begins the story.
I thought that this was a very cute and fun story. Watching Zach and Amelia fall in love and become a family was very sweet. They balanced and supported each other. They bonded through sharing their past stories and seeking to love each other in small ways. I also enjoyed getting to know Amelia’s sister, Rosalind, who we will hopefully get to see more of!
I would recommend this book to those who like romance, it is sweet and easy to read.

A new take on the marriage of convenience storyline. And I love it! In this book, Abigail proposes marriage to Zacharias, a man she knows only as a customer of frequents her bakery, in an effort to save her shop. As usual, Karen Witemeyer creates witty characters who you grow to love. Don't skim her books - you will miss out on good writing! Part of the story revolves around the characters growing intimacy leading to consumption of the marriage. It was written very tastefully, but probably not a book for younger readers.

My one complaint is not about the author (because she is amazing) but whoever chose the cover art. It does not match the story at all. Abagail is repeatedly described as fully figured and curvaceous which does not match the tiny lady on the cover. And the "cover" Zacharias is not sporting the muscles he would have from throwing lumber around all day.

“Choosing a husband was much like choosing a good baguette. One looked for a strong outer shell, a tender interior, and most importantly, a tractability of dough to hold whatever shape the baker deemed appropriate. Abigail needed a good baguette by the end of the week.”

Karen Witemeyer is best known for the unconventional & out-of-the-ordinary in her books. In <i> More Than Words Can Say </i> it was the marriage-of-convenience proposal by Abigail. My favorite theme in a book, so I knew I was in for a real treat! She didn't do it for love, but to save ownership of the bakery she inherited after her fathers death. The top three candidates who frequented her bakery every morning were the contenders, but only one could take the prize home. Witemeyers signature wit comes out in the choosing:

“Unfortunately, Mr. Beekman was nearing fifty and had breath that could kill a bread dough's rise at twenty paces.”

Obviously she doesn't choose him, but I just thought Abigial's inner musings about each of the men was hilarious! She's desperate and desperate times often leads to desperate measures.

I missed Zach after he took off on his own at the end of <i> More Than Meets the Eye </i> and I'm so glad Witemeyer gave him his own story! Quiet, contemplative, and a man of few words he shows his feelings more than verbally expresses them. When Abigail presents him with the marriage bargain contract, his plans of bachelorhood go right out the window! She brings out the protective instinct in him and has his heart stuttering with the small amount of attraction for the pretty baker. Though this is a business deal, he finds himself having difficulty keeping his feelings at bay. Can these two form a true partnership both in business and matters of the heart?

With every story Witemeyer pens I find myself saying it's her best yet and this was no exception. Between her wit & humor, the unconventional elements, her characters I come to love, the uplifting spiritual truths, and the story to get lost in, it's the whole package for me. I also love the growth I find in her heroes & heroines...both Zach and Abigial try to hide painful pasts that can affect their relationship. What I really liked about this, is instead of burying them deeper, they eventually talk it out. Circumstances forced them to face them and move on, thus bonding them closer. I also really loved Abigail's sister Rosalind, they had a rock solid relationship that shows in everything. She too, has a past she's ashamed of and once that comes to light, she can finally be free of the regrets she's harbored for too many years. I'm hoping her story comes next because she's a young lady I came to care about.

“I've chosen fear over faith more times than I can count. And every time I did, I ended up with regrets. When I chose faith, I didn't always get the outcome I wanted, but I never regretted my choice, because I felt God beside me, holding my hand and lending me strength”~Abigail

I loved this book for everything mentioned here and more! Witemeyer knows how to engage the reader and keep them turning pages while reminding them of the promises God's given us through her characters lives. I always look forward to her next story.

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *

I loved, loved, loved this book! I didn't even know it was the second in a series, so it was great as a standalone. But, knowing it is part of a series, I will now go and buy the first book which is called More Than Meets the Eye.

The main characters are Abigail Kemp and Zacharias Hamilton. Zacharias' story is developed in the first book, but you get enough background in this one that you don't feel lost. Abigail is a woman with lots of gumption and with an enemy that wants to see her destroyed. When she is faced with a ridiculous antiquated law that prevents her from owning the bakery her father left to her, she sets out to find a husband who will give her his name and not take responsibility for the shop. Enter Zach, a true hero if ever there was one.

I loved both of these characters and how they grew to love each other despite unusual circumstances. The theme of not holding on to past mistakes (or our past in general) was well developed. Both characters had pasts they regretted and both learned to let go and trust God.

The ending was beautiful and I can't wait to read book three. This is a great series to invest in. Pre-order your copy now! It comes out June 4th!

This is my new favorite Karen Witemeyer book. I loved it. I loved the two main characters, the side characters, the slow-burn romance, the plot and resolution. It was spot on. This is one I will definitely buy for my personal library and will recommend to many.

I love Karen Witemeyer's books and this one continues my enjoyment of them. It is a sweet romance with some humor and lovable characters. Of course, I already fell in love with Zach from the previous book that introduced the three orphans who became a family. I wished Zach hadn't had to leave Evie and Seth to find his story because I enjoyed their interactions and this book contained very few interactions between the three of them. However, his love for his patchwork family still showed through. Both main characters found redemption from their past mistakes and their guilt and shame that resulted.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is a great book!

Can i just thank Witemeyer for not having a skinny-twig woman and instead a curvy heroine who is not traditionally pretty and having the hero desire her? Yes thank- you very much!

In order to save her bakery Abby must marry-- as a woman she cannot own her bakery. So she sets out to find a husband. Her first choice is the man who comes in every day and smiles at her: Zach Hamilton.

Zach on the other hand is finally free. He doesn't have family depending on him, he can do anything he wants. Visit the Queen in England if he wanted. So he does NOT want a wife.

These two were really cute and an amazing example of a good positive relationship. Abby learns to trust and improves her self confidence. Zach learns that needing people is the way to happiness, not freedom. A great sequel to the first book.

I look forward to a third book, featuring Abby's sister Rosalind!

Oh how I loved this book! This is the second book in the Patchwork Family series and one of my most anticipated reads of 2019, partly because I have often thought of Zach since meeting him in More Than Meets the Eye and I have been waiting for his story but mainly because I love anything written by Karen Witemeyer.

Abby was instantly likeable and her story made me so glad that I live in a world where it's perfectly acceptable for women to own a business without having a man's name to put on the deed. That's how things were during the 1800's and since her father's death the city council started giving her a hard time. So, what's a single woman who owns and operates a successful bakery to do? Well, she decides to enter into a marriage of convenience which adds several humorous interactions with a couple of the single men in town. My goodness, Abby is determined she is not giving up her bakery and livelihood without a fight and that's when I rooted for her to have the best life had to offer her.

Things didn't get off to a good start as Abby went through the list of suitable men to marry, there were some duds who frequented her bakery but there was that one man she thought would be a good choice. Unfortunately he disagreed much to my disappointment but luckily Abby has a sister who has her back so that was a wonderful surprise when she pays Zach a visit. Zach has changed so much since the first book and the change has been positive making this readers heart so happy. I have admired the sacrifices he made for his Patchwork family and was so happy to reconnect with Evangeline and Seth. I didn't always condone Zach's behavior but knew he had little choice in how he provided for his family.

I think the author strikes the perfect blend of humor, love of family and faith in this wonderful story. This could be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the books in order to fully appreciate the characters and the fantastic writing of Ms. Witemeyer.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.

So much happened in this book, I had a hard time putting it down in my eagerness to find out what was to come! I love how Karen Witemeyer always creates a unique story with twists and turns along the way. It's never predictable, it's always romantic, and it's always a great read for a long weekend. I have yet to read a book by this author that wasn't a pleasant read - and I am a notoriously picky reader!

Abigail Kemp needs a man. Any man will do, as long as she can keep her family's bakery. After being informed of a law that prohibits a woman from owning property in Honey Grove, Texas, Abigail is furious. Determined to get around it, she decides she needs to marry, with the provision that whoever she marries has nothing to do with the running of her bakery. Zacharias Hamilton seems to fit the bill nicely, if only she could get him to accept her business proposition. Zach is floored when Abigail comes to him with the crazy scheme - he never thought to marry, let alone marry someone he barely knows. But he can't resist a woman in distress, and thus ensues a story of loss, redemption, and love.

I will start off by saying that I found this couple a bit difficult to connect with at first, so steady on if you find yourself feeling the same way initially. Their relationship grows slowly, but as can be seen early on, they each find it easy to be attracted to each other physically. It just takes a very long time for them to connect in other ways. Zach was so cute in his attempts to "seduce" his wife, and I was rooting for him to succeed. It was a little odd to see the heat level in this book, since I am used to more sedate Christian romance, but as someone who regularly reads steamy romance novels, it wasn't a turnoff for me. And everything remained "behind closed doors", so to speak. Abigail wasn't your typical heroine, but I loved her quirks and her desire for independence. Yes, she married to keep her bakery, but she also genuinely felt something for Zach. Her relationship with her sister, Rosalind, was very strong, and I loved seeing that as a prominent feature of the story. Rosalind didn't fade into the background, but instead she became an important part of the story. Her bond with Zach was sweet and just pointed to the kindness and generosity of his character.

I am hoping Rosalind gets her book next, or at least soon! I really liked her character, and I'm interested to see who she is paired with.

Fans of Karen Witemeyer know that she excels at writing sweet, subtly sexy Western romances which are full of charm and joy. Her genuine, heartwarming stories never fail to bring a smile to my face and her latest book, More Than Words Can Say, completely met that expectation. It’s the second novel in a series but works perfectly as a standalone.

Thanks to her dad, Abigail Kemp has lived a life defined by misogyny. Just when she thought she was past that, the town council delivers a nasty surprise - the bakery she inherited is now in violation of the law because only men are allowed to own businesses within the city limits. Abigail can either sell the business to a man and work for him or find a husband. She’s not pleased about either option but it doesn’t take her long to figure out that a marriage of convenience will be the best solution. The deadline delivered by the mayor gives her only two weeks to pick a suitor in a small town with a serious shortage of bachelors.

Her primary qualification for a husband is “a tractability of dough” that would “hold whatever shape the baker deemed appropriate.” Which leaves her daily customer Zacharias Hamilton out of the running. He might make flutters dance in her chest when they exchange a morning nod over his preferred sticky buns and black coffee order but the man lacks the malleability she’s looking for in a groom. The only problem is, her other choices are a mama’s boy whose mama doesn’t think a baker is good enough for her baby and a church deacon whose breath could “kill a bread dough’s rise at twenty paces.” After some deep deliberation, Abigail musters her courage and proposes to Zach, complete with a contract outlining the benefits of the marriage for each of them.

Zach’s days of involving himself in other people’s troubles are past. He took on the raising of a family at thirteen and has done plenty of things he’s none too proud of in order to keep a roof over their heads and food in their bellies. He’d noticed that Abigail was tense and unhappy recently but had determined to simply appreciate the fact that her personal troubles weren’t interfering with her ability to brew a good cup of coffee or provide delectable baked goods for his morning repast.

He turns down Abigail’s original proposal courteously, but he finds it harder to say no when her younger sister Rosalind corners him later that afternoon and  pleads with him to accept it and protect the two ladies from harm. It seems young Rosalind has gotten herself into a spot of trouble, and without the bakery to live in and a strong brother-in-law to protect her, she is confident that trouble  will grow until it destroys both her and Abigail. Zach reluctantly takes a second look at Abigail’s contract outlining the terms of their marriage and assures her he will agree to all her terms if she agrees to one of his: marital relations must be part of the deal. Flustered by his physical interest in her but delighted at the chance to save her bakery, Abigail agrees.

There’s nothing better than a typical romance plot done well and that’s exactly what More Than Words Can Say is. Abigail, like many a heroine before her, doesn’t recognize her own beauty or charm even though she’s industrious, kind, and clever. We learn details of her life throughout the novel that show how she has overcome adversity and her own mistakes to be the lovely and caring woman she is.  Her surprise at Zach’s amorous interest comes from the fact she sees none of that in herself: she thinks she’s simply a “plain, plump dough slinger” while he’s the ultimate ruggedly handsome, confident cowboy.

What Abigail quickly comes to value more than Zach’s appearance, though, are things I loved about him, too. He has an egalitarian attitude towards their relationship. He never pushes her for more than she is willing to give physically, is helpful but not in the least controlling in terms of her business and shows a respect towards women that Abigail’s father never did.  Marrying Abigail is a kindness he doesn’t need to perform but which is totally in keeping with his character. As the novel progresses we watch him help Rosalind and an assortment of other people in need and are reminded of everything he did for his sister Evie, the heroine of More Than Meets the Eye. His compassionate, charitable nature coupled with his good looks, fighting skills and protective instincts make him a hero to die for.

I’ve never read a marriage of convenience plot that I didn’t think required a heaping helping of suspension of disbelief and this one is no different. This trope is a standard of the genre however, and is one I am willing to happily concede reality for. That was especially easy here since having Zach and Abigail married allows the author to build their relationship in historically accurate ways and gives us a chance to really see the hero and heroine pull together to face their difficulties.

Their marriage also allows Witemeyer to do an excellent job of combining her faith filled story with realistic sensuality. While this tale is in no way explicit, the genuine desire felt between a man and woman is expressed. Passages such as the following highlight that Zach has a very typical male attitude towards sex:

"Speaking from a purely practical perspective, Miss Kemp,” he interrupted,”a man can’t be expected to live like a eunuch when the woman he’s married to looks like you.” His gaze scanned her from head to toe, lingering ever so briefly on the places where her curves were most prominent.

The author is firm in her conviction that the only appropriate setting for the fulfillment of such desire is within a marriage but her acknowledgment of those feelings adds a realistic note to the hero and heroine’s interactions.

As I mentioned, this narrative is faith filled. Zach and Abigail speak of their beliefs  frequently, spend time in prayer and work through the problems they encounter throughout the book by using biblical principles and relying on scripture for guidance. Their convictions are generic to Christianity and appropriate to the time and place in which they live.

More Than Words Can Say is a lovely story that is a complete pleasure to read. I wish the author had taken a bit more time to deal with Rosalind’s situation but the quick resolution in no way affected my enjoyment of the tale.  I think fans of Inspirational romance will find a lot to love here and I urge them to rush out and pick up a copy as soon as possible.

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Abby took over the running of the family bakery after the death of her father, but due to an archaic law she has until the end of the month to get a man's name on the deed. She devises a marriage of convenience to keep her business, but will she lose her heart in the process?



Zach is a man of few words, but also a man of his word. Getting married was never part of his plan, he never considered himself marriage material. Strong and silent he doesn't crack under pressure either. He admires Abby for her faith and determination.



Abby has never been popular with the young men, she likes to keep the background, convinced that men don't find her attractive. Abby loves her family and has great business sense. She looks to the faith of her family to encourage her during difficult times.



One of my very favorite Karen Witemeyer books of all time, great romantic tension and interaction between Abby and Zach. I didn't want to put this book down, yet at the same time I didn't want it to end. I loved the close bond that the sisters share, as well as Abby's friendship with Lydia.



Though part of a series, it reads as a stand alone, set in a different town and a whole new cast of characters. I loved how relatable Abby was with her insecurities about her looks, and how she learns to move past that and see herself as others do. Neither Zach or Abby are perfect people and their marriage might not have been the perfect situation, but they make the best of it, keeping their heads, treating each other with respect and supporting each other through the hard times. A memorable read, full of romance, faith, and family.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 STARS

I really enjoyed this story! This story was bright, engaging, and full of hope. Just the right book to lift my spirits and brighten my day.

This is a Historical Christian Romance set in 1896 about a woman named Abigail Kemp. Abby and her younger sister Rosalind run the family business, A Taste of Heaven Bakery, and have been doing so since their fathers’ death. Unfortunately, in their small town of Honey Grove, Texas, It is still against the law for women to own their own businesses. This has caused Abby to be backed into a corner and must make a life-changing decision. She must sell the business, find a male business partner, or come up with a different solution in just a few weeks time.

Abby has worked hard at the bakery, and she loves it dearly. Having forced her hand in making such a huge decision, Abby decides that it is only practical to find herself a husband, one that can add his name to the title of the bakery, but leave his hand out of bakery business. Her husband of choice? Zacharias Hamilton—the quiet, handsome bachelor that is a breakfast regular in the bakery.

Zach Hamilton loves being a bachelor. After spending most of his life taking care of his adoptive siblings, he is finally free. Free from the responsibilities and weight of taking care of another person. When Abigail Kemp, the beautiful bakery owner propositions him in a marriage business transaction, he doesn’t want to give up his newly found freedom to again provide for another person. But when the other Miss Kemp comes, begging him to agree to Abby’s proposal so that she and Abby can have a protector against her own foolish mistakes, Zach quickly changes his mind.

As Abby and Zach grow closer, trust starts to grow, and soon Abby finds that she wants more out of their relationship than a business arrangement—she wants his heart.

————————————————————————

First off, Abagail is such a strong female MC. She is smart, independent and fiercely loyal to her family. She knows she doesn’t need a man, but she does eventually realize that she WANTS a man (specifically Zach) in her life.

Zacharias is a strong, broody character. That being said, he is also a hard candy shell with a gooey center. He has such a big heart, is protective, loyal, and giving.

It is different in Christian romance to have such sizzling, steamy chemistry, but Karen Witemeyer accomplished this flawlessly! Zach and Abby are a phenomenal couple pairing, and while all the super steamy details were left “behind closed doors”, the chemistry was no less amazing and had this girl swooning and getting butterflies.

I also really loved the overall Christian theme and message to be gained from the book, which was that you have to forgive yourself of your past mistakes and God will help guide you and bless you in your life. A very inspiring and heartwarming message.

As for why I knocked it down one star? There were a few times throughout the book, where there would be a piece of dialogue that sounded much too modern to be considered historically accurate. I honestly don’t think they said things like “for sure” back then (and that’s just one example) but maybe I’m wrong? I just felt that it slightly took away from the overall awe I felt for this story.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this book, and look forward to more novels from this author. I’m also hoping to get a story about Abigail’s sister Rosalind. I am eager for more of a story about her.

Thank you to NetGalley, Karen Witemeyer, and Bethany House Publishers for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I did not know that it was a sequel or immediately remember Zach and his family, but a couple of chapters in, my memory was jogged and I was excited to get to know Zacharias better. I thought his portrayal was one of the most realistic male perspectives I’ve read in quite some time. I loved Abby too. I wished she wouldn’t focus on her weight so much, but that was probably realistic as well. I loved the way they worked together as a team and the solutions they found to their problems. I liked the little ways they cared for one another. And I thought their personal challenges were really well done ( for Abby- prioritizing, family vs career, and trusting God with the outcome. For Zach- responsibility vs integrity, trusting God to make a way. ) This was such a sweet story, with a lot to relate to and a lot to inspire. Loved it.

More Than Words Can Say continues the Patchwork Family series by Karen Witemeyer. What a fun, delightful and entertaining story. I loved Abby and Zach and loved how they came together.
I believe More Than Words Can Say is among my favorites I have read this year. I would give it 100 stars if I could. I highly recommend it for readers who love clean and sweet historical fiction with sprinkles of humor. This one is most definitely not one to be missed!
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

I loved every moment spent reading this fun, page-turning story! This story captivated my imagination and the delightful characters captured my heart. I found myself more than once laughing out loud, and talking to the book as if my new character friends could hear me.

After meeting Zacharias in the last book, I was super excited to hold his story in my hands and get to know more about this quietly brooding hero. Zach quickly found his way into my heart. He tends to keep others at arm’s length with his scowls and grunts for answers. But his heart is big and he loves much deeper than he lets on.

Abigail is just such a sweet heroine. I wanted to hug her and invite her over to put up her aching feet and enjoy a cup of tea. I just know we’d hit it off right from the start! Abigail had to grow up fast when her mother died. She has carried the weight of responsibility of her younger sister and the bakery on her shoulders for far too long.

I loved the character growth that we get to see as the story progresses, and how we can each learn and take something away from the story. Maybe you need to hear that God loves you just the way you are, dimples and all. Or Maybe you need to hear that no sin is too big for God to forgive. It could be that you, like me needed to be reminded that we need to wait on God and not run ahead and try to fix the problem.

With fun to be had, lessons to learn, and laugher to enjoy, trust me when I say that you won’t want to miss your opportunity to pick up a copy of this fully engaging story!

(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists and/or authors, including netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free. No family entanglements. No disappointing those around him. Just the quiet bachelor existence he's always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away when the baker of his favorite breakfast bun is railroaded by the city council. Despite not wanting to get involved, he can't turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . or her adorable dimples.

Abigail Kemp needs a man's name on her bakery's deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. That person definitely isn't the stoic lumberman who oozes silent confidence whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can't even control her pulse when she's around him.

When vows are spoken, Abigail's troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. Can she put ever more trust in Zach without losing her dreams of independence?

This is a continuation of the Hamilton family. Zach feels he doesn't deserve to be happy because of what he did years ago. Abigail doesn't think anyone will want her because she sees herself as plain. The only thing she has going for her is she owns and operates a successful bakery. The city council makes it impossible to stay in business unless she turns ownership over to a man. This is where the fun starts. I was pleased how Zach's story turned out. I hope in the next book we hear Rosalind's story.

I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

As a longtime fan of Karen Witemeyer's, I've been anticipating this follow-up to last year's More Than Meets the Eye. It does not disappoint. Abigail Kemp is desperate to save her family's bakery, which is in danger due to an antiquated law. She turns to Zach Hamilton, the older brother from the previous volume, who works at the local lumber mill, with a proposition. Although he's determined to remain a bachelor, he can't stand by and not help Abby keep her dream alive. I loved this book and read it in one sitting. I particularly like that Abby is not the typical waif-like heroine we tend to find in romances. She is practical, no-nonsense, and has curves. Witemeyer's stories always surprise me by taking unexpected turns, which is a sign of a great author. I highly recommend this title and encourage anyone to read her backlist if you haven't done so already. You won't be disappointed.

Is it even possible to say that I liked this book even more than the first?
Yet, it's true. This book had me hooked right from the beginning. I had a sneaking suspicion that I would like this because I read the first book in the series last year, but I did not expect to like this one so much.
First off, Abigail was so relatable. She struggled to find her worth in matters other than baking. She worried about how she looked and how she could support herself.
Zach was back! I have to admit that his story was the one I was really looking forward too. He is so different from his siblings and carries a lot of baggage. Yet, through it all, he is able to learn and work through his issues with the help of God.
To sum it all up, I really enjoyed this novel and fans of historical will devour this story with all of its character development.

Rating: 5 Stars
Content: 2 Stars (kissing)

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

An archaic law makes this story, but they did really exist, and the author has used this one with in a very clever way!
Now this is the second book in this series, but there are some updates, so you won’t be totally lost, but the first is equally as good!
There are few chuckles here, and some serious sad moments, that lead to a lifelong grudge, but you have to wonder if the evil is about to prevail.
I enjoyed this read, and the pages flew, there was a sense of loss as the last page was turned, I wanted to continue with the lives of these characters!
You don’t want to miss this one!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.