The Heart of Joy: A Short Story (A Prairie Heritage Book 8)

This series of books are my all time favorite and I wish I could give copies of the series to all my loved ones. They show what it looks like to be a Christian. This is the second time reading through them and I couldn't put them down this time either. Vikki Kestell makes her characters so real, you feel as though you know them and expect them to come through the door at any time. What I love most though is how she makes the Lord the center and the life of these books. The various characters are in different stages of their walk with the Lord; some are unsaved, others are new believers, some are mature in their faith. Through the daily lives of the people we see how the Lord intends for His children to live - both during good times, hard times and tragedy. We're shown how the Lord woos them, saves them, and guides their daily lives; encouraging, comforting, strengthening, and disciplining them. We see to the amazing way He is in control of all things, working all things out according to His will. These books will make you angry, make you cry, make you laugh, and make amazed anew at our Lord. They'll strengthen your faith. and make you eager to do more for your Lord. To me, these books are a shining example of Christian fiction at it's very best. Once you start reading this first book in the series, you won't want to stop until you've read them all - and you'll still want more!

The entire (Prairie Heritage ) book series is worthy of binge reading. I know because I did it! Under Kestell's skilled hand, these characters come alive and when I finish one book, I can't wait to start the next one. Now that I have finished the entire series, I miss those characters like old friends. Right plot lines and compelling subjects mixed with joyful Christian faith and community. I love these books and now that they are all on my Kindle, I can revisit them any time! Thank you Vikki Kestell!!

I've totally fallen in love with the Thoreson clan between this series and the Laynie Palmer series. As I finished this book I was saddened that the saga is over. Viki8 Kestell writes with such depth and emotion in her characters. I found myself crying at times, laughing at others. Additionally, you are drawn completely into the hearts of the characters. They become friends you cry with and celebrate with. I am relieved to see the Girls From the Mountain books. Off to buy them now.

I have been so engrossed in the world of Rose, Joy, O’Dell and all their friends and the women of Palmer House. It has been a wonderful journey, and I am so sad the series is done. I’m already looking forward to reading about Laynie next. The characters are all so wonderful, and their spiritual walk is making mine so much more meaningful. Thank you, Vikki!

As good as the previous 7. Now on to 9 & others. Each book I read an almost non-stop reading. If I had not my responsibilities as a Human & husband, I think I would not stop until I finished the book and maybe the series.

Wonderful! So glad for the outcome for these two. What a marvel to feel yourself being part of life with these characters. May you be blessed to read these for yourselves!

Even though the book was short it was still had the feel for the characters that I love in the other books. I feel as if I was there witnessing the actions of certain characters or feeling the emotions of others.

The years following her first husband's death were hard for Joy, especially since her son had never been found. Edmund O'Dell feels the time is right for him to declare his love for Joy. Joy turns to God for answers to her questions.

That was magnificent,and well done. Some light and more love in the trials of the journey of faith. I have fallen in love with all the characters of A Prairie Heritage, and this is my second reading of all the books. Thank you for sharing your imagination and faith!

A short story telling of the courtship and marriage of Edmund and Joy. A lovely conclusion of his long love for her and her finally letting go of her dead husband, Grant. A new beginning for their family.

This series of books are my all time favorite and I wish I could give copies of the series to all my loved ones. They show what it looks like to be a Christian. This is the second time reading through them and I couldn't put them down this time either. Vikki Kestell makes her characters so real, you feel as though you know them and expect them to come through the door at any time. What I love most though is how she makes the Lord the center and the life of these books. The various characters are in different stages of their walk with the Lord; some are unsaved, others are new believers, some are mature in their faith. Through the daily lives of the people we see how the Lord intends for His children to live - both during good times, hard times and tragedy. We're shown how the Lord woos them, saves them, and guides their daily lives; encouraging, comforting, strengthening, and disciplining them. We see to the amazing way He is in control of all things, working all things out according to His will. These books will make you angry, make you cry, make you laugh, and make amazed anew at our Lord. They'll strengthen your faith. and make you eager to do more for your Lord. To me, these books are a shining example of Christian fiction at it's very best. Once you start reading this first book in the series, you won't want to stop until you've read them all - and you'll still want more!

The entire (Prairie Heritage ) book series is worthy of binge reading. I know because I did it! Under Kestell's skilled hand, these characters come alive and when I finish one book, I can't wait to start the next one. Now that I have finished the entire series, I miss those characters like old friends. Right plot lines and compelling subjects mixed with joyful Christian faith and community. I love these books and now that they are all on my Kindle, I can revisit them any time! Thank you Vikki Kestell!!

I've totally fallen in love with the Thoreson clan between this series and the Laynie Palmer series. As I finished this book I was saddened that the saga is over. Viki8 Kestell writes with such depth and emotion in her characters. I found myself crying at times, laughing at others. Additionally, you are drawn completely into the hearts of the characters. They become friends you cry with and celebrate with. I am relieved to see the Girls From the Mountain books. Off to buy them now.

I have been so engrossed in the world of Rose, Joy, O’Dell and all their friends and the women of Palmer House. It has been a wonderful journey, and I am so sad the series is done. I’m already looking forward to reading about Laynie next. The characters are all so wonderful, and their spiritual walk is making mine so much more meaningful. Thank you, Vikki!

As good as the previous 7. Now on to 9 & others. Each book I read an almost non-stop reading. If I had not my responsibilities as a Human & husband, I think I would not stop until I finished the book and maybe the series.

Wonderful! So glad for the outcome for these two. What a marvel to feel yourself being part of life with these characters. May you be blessed to read these for yourselves!

Even though the book was short it was still had the feel for the characters that I love in the other books. I feel as if I was there witnessing the actions of certain characters or feeling the emotions of others.

The years following her first husband's death were hard for Joy, especially since her son had never been found. Edmund O'Dell feels the time is right for him to declare his love for Joy. Joy turns to God for answers to her questions.

That was magnificent,and well done. Some light and more love in the trials of the journey of faith. I have fallen in love with all the characters of A Prairie Heritage, and this is my second reading of all the books. Thank you for sharing your imagination and faith!

A short story telling of the courtship and marriage of Edmund and Joy. A lovely conclusion of his long love for her and her finally letting go of her dead husband, Grant. A new beginning for their family.

I loved this story. The complete submission to the Lord's will, over & over was so refreshing. Reminding me of how my husband & I entered our 67 yr. marriage. Love it. All would be drawn closer to our loving Lord by reading it. Butterfly n

This book is soooooo good! I ended up reading the entire series! I loved how the author wove scripture, hymns and struggles that they relied on God to see them thru! The author’s writing ability had you feeling as though you were right in the story line! One of the best books i’ve Read in a long time—who needs to sleep😀couldn’t put it down!

I am continuing to enjoy reading the Prairie Heritage series and would recommend it highly.

Another fabulously written book by Vikki Kestell. This is a true Christian story that places God at the center of all and brings the books about Joy to a commencement in a sweet and loving way. I highly recomment reading the rest of the series and finishing up with this!

Following Rose’s family through the years and the many lives she was able to change for good is so moving. Each book has a story of faith, hope and love shared, a truly feel good story that helps one want to apply to their real life. A perfect message to share.

I choose 5 stars when I am so engrossed in a book that I can hardly put it down. And this being a short story and the finality of the series I know I am going to miss reading about the lives and characters of A PRAIRIE HERITAGE!.

I loved. All the prairie heritage books the stories are so real life.I shed a lot of tears as I read the stories.The hear felt fear and love and disappointing parts are all part of life. As a Christian the bible verses and the prayers rated this a excellent read for everyone.

I liked this look back to finish Joy’s story that has been central in this series of books. Good job Vikki, you are a great author.

Thank you Vicki for the great book, have read all of Rose's story and starting on the girls storys, on Tabitha now and have thoroughly enjoyed each and every one

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all the books in the Prairie Heritage series. To read about God's goodness in the lives of those in these books has truly blessed me. I wish the story to continue.

I love this author! She tells such beautiful stories & weaves faith beautifully & seamlessly into every word! Thanks for another great book!

Another great read. Just wish it was a little longer! Good job again, Vikki! I have loved and grown from this series!

Although a short story, I appreciate knowing the story of Joy and Edmund O'Dell. I have come to love this family and never want their story to end.

What a wonderful completion of this Prairie Heritage. Such a sweet story of how love lost, can be love found!

Thanks for filling in the details of what happened to Joy & Mr. O'Dell when book 7 jumped 80 years from book 6!

A very good story about God's love and family and the plans that are written to guide us in life

Thank once again for the wonderful story and learning about relationships too! God woven in and exciting plots! God bless you!

This book won't disappoint as uou continue the series of books by Vicki Kestell!

Love all of her books. Cannot wait for more. Love that it's a true Christian series. Usually can not put the book down until it's completed.

Oh lord this has been the best series that I've had the privilege to read in a very long time. Can't wait to read more from Ms. Kestell.

I loved this whole series.

I read this book some time ago and remember liking it very much. The author is a wonderful Christian writer.

Love this series!

The heartaches this lady faced would cause some to give up . But not Joy, her faith held her together. I am inspired by her faith and walk with the Lord. From beginning to end you will love it.

This book didn't hold my attention as much as the other books in this series. Anxious to see what her next series will bring.

Really enjoyed all 8 books. Looking forward to reading the next 3. Joy and Rose made me feel like I was right there with them. Loved all.

I enjoyed this series!

This whole series is wonderful. I hope she writes more.

A nice recap to a great series Prairie Heritage. Loved the reminders of our heritage in Christ & godly family!

I love the entire series by Vikki Kestall. I can envision Palmer House clearly in my mind, and wish I could go visit!!

Had had to know more bought all books.

Thank you

The whole series a MUST READ!!

Love this series. Could not put these books down.

great series - looking forward to read more books from this author! very enjoyable

I loved the entire series, but This book was full of the Lord And so much hope. I think I Enjoyed it the most. Thank you Vikki!

It was a great book- well written!

A must read series.

An excellent book. I was drawn into the entire series!

These books are amazing. They will bless you and change you in wonderful ways. Once read, they will play a roll in how you see life and your relationship with God.

Wonderful series!

Love Vikki's style of writing. Easy flow, wordage and customs true to era of story settings. Always keeps you waiting for next book to come out.

I read all the books in the series and enjoyed every moment! Truly was caught up in each story line.....

good book

I love how these books make me look at myself. These maybe fictional but you learn a lot through the scriptures that go in line with the story.

A sweet short story to fill in what happened with Joy after the tragedy. I love Rose and her wisdom she so gently shares.

Vicki Kestell's Prairie Heritage series is one of my all-time favorites. The characters are so real I sometimes caught myself starting to pray for them! I won't spoil it by telling you the plot line but I promise you will be very surprised when events suddenly take Joy Michaels from the safety of her parents' Prairie farm to be involved in the dangerous rescue of brutalized women. In the course of the series Joy's beloved husband passed away. In the next book of the series she is remarried to a dear family friend. This book fills in the details of Joy and Edmund's romance with Vicki Kestell's trademark humor, plot twists and surprises wrapped in the beauty of Christ's love in her characters. A sweet, fun read that will warm your heart and if you' ve read the other books of the series (and you are like me) fill in the details of how Joy and Edmund fell in love.

The whole series is fantastic! This little book provides the details of a time in their lives that wasn’t shared previously. I am sad to see A Prairie Heritage come to an end. I loved reading about these characters & all they went through, especially their simple but strong faith. It is a beautiful thing!

I read this novella eager to find out what happened to Joy and how she allowed God to continue to work in her life after her child was taken. In Kestell's inimitable way, we journey back to the time in-between, to learn that Joy's faith remains a constant and God's blessings abound in such beautiful ways. I don't want to give anything away, but this is a must read after the Prairie Heritage series, but can also stand alone in it's honor to God! Well done, Vikki, good and faithful servant! Mary Ellen Walsh

i loved reading about the people from the other books, i was given a copy but i am given an honest review. if you have read any of the other books in the series you need to read this one. it is a very good clean story, with romance