AUTHOR: Karen Witemeyer
DATE: 2018
PUBLISHER: Bethany House
STARS: *****
Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes--one bright blue, the other dark brown--Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgments, and Eva has two--Seth and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers.
Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in 1880s Pecan Gap, Texas, to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?
Young Evangeline captured my heart from the very beginning. Shunned by most because of her eye colors, her stubbornly bright outlook and rare empathy refuse to let the unkindness of others stain her attitude. She, Seth and Zach formed their own unique family unit where their differences create a perfect whole—a joy to behold. But the first tug on my heart came with the mention of Evie’s mismatched eyes, a reminder of my own beloved mother’s eyes, one blue and the other hazel. I hope she never had to endure the mockery and fear mongering directed at Evie.
Logan is a complex hero, with his determination to enact vengeance on the man who took his home contrasting with his innate kindness and desire to protect. Sparks fly from Logan and Evie’s first meeting, and their banter is pure delight.
This is a story where faith plays an important role, necessary any time forgiveness and redemption are required. More Than Meets the Eye weaves a tapestry of hurt, loss, faith, danger and love into an exquisite story that challenged and entertained me. I love this story and award it five stars. I received a copy of this book from the publisher.