Rachel Kaufman makes a promise to her son Justin when she accepts a job as an assistant chaplain at a new hospital in Sarasota, Florida. "Everything will work out; it will be all right." Nothing had been right since her husband was killed in a tragic accident two years ago. She and Justin moved into the grandparent cottage and her late husband's brother and his family moved into the farmhouse where Rachel, Justin and her late husband lived. That's the way things work in the Mennonite culture. Justin's uncle was hard on him, and Rachel thought a change would be best for both of them. A thousand miles from Ohio, Justin is not so sure this move is the best thing. He doesn't make friends easily, and kids in public school don't understand the Mennonite culture. Justin makes friends with Derek, the first boy who pays attention to him. But Derek is a con- artist and a bully. Justin innocently thinks he is tutoring Derek in math, but he's really doing Derek's homework for him.

Rachel really enjoys her new job and immerses herself in her work. She's on four months' probation and has to complete a certification program. She's so busy with work and classes that she isn't paying enough attention to Justin and his needs. He tries to convey his unhappiness, but Rachel continues to insist everything will work out. Are things really working out in Rachel's own life? The hospital administrator seems to be looking for Rachel to make a wrong move so she has reason to let her go at the end of her probationary period. Are her motives professional or are they personal? Can Rachel keep her job and find time for Justin? Does she really want to?

Although this is the third book in Anna Schmidt's Women of Pinecraft series, it can stand alone as a wonderful, inspirational novel. There are several subplots that develop previous characters and introduce some very relevant social themes. The characters are endearing and the story development will keep you intrigued. There may even be romance for Rachel, if she will allow herself to meet her own needs. If you're a fan of inspirational fiction, this is an excellent choice.

Book Summary

After her husband’s sudden death, Mennonite Rachel Kaufman has promised her son, Justin, a fresh start. Will Florida be the balm to heal their gaping wounds? Dr. Ben Booker stopped trusting God when his niece became ill. Is Rachel just what the Great Physician ordered to restore Ben’s faith? As thirteen-year-old Justin struggles in his new environs, to what lengths will he go to reestablish a sense of control over his life? When a jealous coworker begins spreading malicious gossip, Rachel’s career is jeopardized. Is her faith enough to see her through?