Her Secret Hope

September 11, 2023
A young Amish woman escapes her Ohio roots to seek happiness and a husband in Gray’s winning conclusion to her A Season in Pinecraft series (after Her Only Wish). Adopted at age two, Lilly Kurz has long been “carrying around... a chip on my shoulder.” Now 24, she seeks a fresh start in the Amish community of Pinecraft, Fla. She finds work as a maid at the Marigold Inn, where she meets guest November Byler and her charismatic grandson, Eddie, who’s still recovering after his fiancée left him for another man. As Lilly and Eddie, who are both from the same part of Ohio, spend more time together, they start to fall for one another and Eddie begins to heal. Soon, however, his questions about her family make Lilly skittish about disclosing her roots, putting the relationship at risk. Gray sketches a tender portrait of a young woman seeking her place in the world, and though the romantic arc satisfies, it’s Lilly’s insights into self-worth and faith that prove most affecting. This feel-good finale will delight Gray’s fans and net her some new ones.