Mckenna's Daughter #02: Mary's Blessings (#02 in Mckenna's Daughters Series)

Mary's tough farm life is in stark contrast to that of her sister, Maggie, whom we saw in the first book of this series, Maggie's Journey. I loved reading about a different setting in the same era, and found it held more drama than the society living of Maggie's Journey. Lena vividly creates the hardships and chores demanded of every day farm life, and I loved learning about this lifestyle as I enjoyed the story. \\r\\n\\r\\nThis book captivated me from the moment I started reading it. Mary and Daniel are just too cute, and Daniel's doting crush on Mary brought a smile to my face. I loved Mary. Despite being young and innocent, she is no doe-eyed love struck girl. She accepts the hardships of reality and attempts to make the best of what she is dealt. \\r\\n\\r\\nThings between Mary and Daniel don't remain sweet. I baulked when Daniel displayed the typical male arrogance that women find so detestable. It was hard to see the ugly side of a character that had endeared himself to me. Daniel is forced to search himself and God's word to understand how he must help and serve Mary. \\r\\n\\r\\nDespite Mary being adopted out - just as her sister Maggie was - the challenges Mary faces are unique. What results is a wonderfully different story. \\r\\n \\r\\nI enjoyed Mary's Blessing even more than Maggie's Journey. The romance in this book was stronger, and the struggles and tragedy Mary faced tugged at my heart strings.