AUTHOR: Mary Manners
DATE: 2012
PUBLISHER: White Rose Publishing
STARS: ****
Sometimes the last thing we think we need is exactly what God has planned.
After the death of his parents, Jake Samuels has enough on his plate—including a fledgling church to lead and a mischievous younger brother to raise. The last thing he needs is a rambunctious woman to contend with.
Carin O'Malley is dealing with the death of her brother and a new job as an English teacher at East Ridge Middle School where Corey Samuels reigns as King of Chaos. The last thing she needs is to fall in love with a man...especially a handsome and complicated preacher like Corey’s brother Jake.
But when Corey's antics toss Carin and Jake together, the two must draw from God’s wisdom to find refuge in His perfect plan for them.
From an inauspicious introduction, Jake and Carin trudge the murky waters of relationship. Jake is trying hard to be the parent his brother needs, only to find his advice and disciplinary efforts ignored. Carin feels a bond with the troubled Corey even before she discovers their similar grief.
Mary Manners brings these characters to life in Wisdom Tree, and I found myself involved in their efforts to overcome the difficulties facing them, bringing them close, and pushing them apart. With a strong faith message and even a bonus devotional, Wisdom Tree is a story of redemption and hope.
I received this book as a gift from the author, and it earns four stars. Recommended.