After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free. No family entanglements. No disappointing those around him. Just the quiet bachelor existence he’s always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away when the baker of his favorite breakfast bun is railroaded by the city council. Despite not wanting to get involved, he can’t turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . … . . or her adorable dimples.
Abigail Kemp needs a man’s name on her bakery’s deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. That person definitely isn’t the stoic lumberman who oozes silent confidence whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can’t even control her pulse when she’s around him.
When vows are spoken, Abigail’s troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. Can she put ever more trust in Zach without losing her dreams of independence?
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More than Words Can Say is a historical fiction set in the late 1800’s in Honey Grove, Texas. It is the second book in the Patchwork Family Series, however it can be read as a standalone novel. Karen Witemeyer has written a fictional story about a real town, her details would delight anyone familiar with the town or its history. I enjoyed Abigail Kemp and her determination to keep her inheritance and her family’s legacy. She also demonstrated forgiveness and understanding when many would choose another route. Zacharias “Zach” Hamilton has already sacrificed to raise a family once, but finds himself drawn to Abigail and want to not only save her legacy but save her from a loveless marriage. Zach grew the most as a character to me, he went from a character that confused me to one that I loved. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters, it was entertaining while still being believable. I am looking forward to the concluding novella in the series.
I received a copy of this book from celebrate lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Sweet, funny, historical romance. I loved the main characters Zacharias, Abigail and her sister and their daily adventures with the townspeople and running the bakery. Both Zach and Abby didn’t grow up in loving homes or have any courtship experiences so communication wasn’t their strong suit but they both learned to show their love to each other by actions and with trusting God and eventually in each other.
Great christian romance with lots of laughs, kisses, and yummy food! I really enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
I always love Karen Witemeyer books and this one is one of my favorite. I could not put this book down. I loved the characters of Abby, Zach and Rosalind. They had an interesting start to the beginning of their family. Both Abigail and Zach needed to let some past transgressions go so they could start their own lives. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
“More Than Words Can Say” by Karen Witemeyer
I loved this story. I also requested the opportunity to receive an ARC of this story, and yes, it was granted by the publisher via NetGalley. This is a wonderful historic romance story set in America in the late 1800’s. What I loved? It was a clean romance that made me chuckle and made me cry, and made me ever so glad to spend my time with these characters in the town of Honey Grove, Texas. Love and Faith can change your world. And when you read this story, be sure to read the author’s notes at the end. Happy Reading !!
I have read every book Karen has written & I must say, she continues to come up with a great story, great characters & satisfying endings. I was so glad to be able to read Zach’s story & loved how both Zach & Abby’s past was brought out and how together they dealt with it. I enjoyed the other characters that were part of their story. I can’t wait to see what Karen comes up with next. Will be waiting to read Rosalind’s story soon. Keep up the great work.
Wowsa! This book totally knocked it out of the park for me!
It’s been a little while since I’ve read a 1800’s Western Historical, but with this book, Karen Witemeyer helped me remember why I fell in love with the genre in the first place.
I like to talk about my favorite characters in my book reviews, and y’all. The characters in this book were awesome!!
Abigail—Ohmygoodness, can I just say how amazing it is that Abby is a plus-sized heroine? She was also so very relatable—she struggled with so many things that so many of us do as well—guilt, feeling less-than, self-recrimination, doubt, etc… But she was an amazing character that fought back, and chose hope. Chose love and trust instead of letting fear and guilt bind her.
Also, Zacharias (I his name!). He was so sweet!! He was quiet and kind of lonely—but very content to stay that way, until Abby burst onto the scene and turned his world upside down! His fierce protection of his family was so touching, and the way he championed Abby and her sister was awesome!!
I think one of my favorite aspects of this book, was when the main characters were having struggles with misunderstandings, etc… they refused to just back down and turn silently away from the issues they were having—especially Zach! As quiet as he was, I am so impressed with the fact that he stood up to and for Abby time and again, and proved his love, steadfastly and honorably.
Another amazing aspect of this book was the rich themes of hope and forgiveness found in God alone—only he can take two lives broken and shaped by so much shame and tragedy, mold them together, and create something so beautiful!
Witty, sincere, relatable, hilarious, and touching—this book was fantastic, and you totally need to give it a try! And I am so excited to find out what comes next in this “Patchwork Family” series! Amazing job, Ms. Witemeyer!
I received a copy of this book for FREE, and a positive review was not required.
Note: This book might be better for a slightly more mature audience, as it about a marriage of convenience, and some topics may be a tad TMI.
I am always ready to read any book by Karen Witemeyer because I find them to be the perfect blend of historical romance, humor, and faith, not necessarily in that order. After reading More Than Meets the Eye, it was a must to read Zach’s story to find out how his life turned out. More Than Words Can Say definitely lived up to its promise.
I can truthfully state that Zach certainly met his match in Abigail. She threw his carefully made plans out the door with her sensible proposal to save her bakery. His overactive sense of protection wouldn’t allow him to let her sacrifice herself to another man who might take advantage of the situation.
It was fun catching up with Zach and meeting Abigail for the first time. Friends and family from the previous novel made an appearance or two that added to my enjoyment. Zach and Abigail’s interactions had a bit more sizzle to them than usual yet the story pretty much remained squeaky clean. Hard feelings from a former friend and escalating threats against the bakery brought added drama and danger to the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed More Than Words Can Say and loved how both Zach and Abigail learned to place their trust in God. It was so encouraging to see how the community came together to help those in need and also the powerful effect the act of forgiveness can have on a person’s life.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Let me start off by saying I loved this story! It’s my favorite Karen Witemeyer story to date, and it will be in my top reads of 2019! There’s really nothing I didn’t love about this story. I loved the time period, the setting, all the main characters, the theme of forgiveness that ran throughout, and the storyline! I mean who doesn’t love a marriage of convenience?
Zach is my favorite character in this story! He gives so much of himself for others. He may come off stoic, but underneath he has a heart of gold. And when he says you’re part of his family, he means it! I loved how he took Abby’s sister, Rosa, under his wing to help her with her situation! I also really liked Abby. She was determined to keep her bakery and I loved how she did it. I also loved how Abby’s mother taught her that “no matter how hard things get or how many disappointments we face, there is always someone who is facing an even more difficult path. Therefore, we should count our blessings and remember that the best way to take our minds off our own troubles is to help someone else with theirs.” What a great lesson to learn! And that really summed up Abby!
I also loved the message that we should choose faith in God over fear. Abby sums it up perfectly when she says, “I’ve chosen fear over faith more times than I can count. And every time I did, I ended up with regrets. When I chose faith, I didn’t always get the outcome I wanted, but I never regretted my choice, because I felt God beside me, holding my hand and lending me strength.” What a great message for all of us to remember, especially those of us who struggle with fear!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
“Please marry me to save my business.” Ok, that’s not a word-for-word quote. But you get the idea. Usually, if you saw something like this in a story, you would think there were financial problems. But Abby’s problem isn’t money. Her business is going great. The only problem is, she inherited the family business in a little town with a strange law. Women aren’t allowed to own business property. Definitely a roadblock…especially for a woman with such fierce independence. I enjoyed More than Words Can Say for all the reasons I usually like historical fiction, but this story was about more than just a marriage of convenience. Here are three questions this story made me ask.
Is Fierce Independence Really What You Want?
I identify a lot with Abby. We both like to be the boss of ourselves. I like to not have to lean on others. Like Abby, going against the grain is just part of who I am. Abby figures bringing on a male business partner will put her independence at risk. She chooses marriage instead because at least the profits will stay “in the family.” But from the minute she proposes to Zach, contract in hand, her concern is keeping that fierce independence.
The problem with fierce independence is that we weren’t meant to do life alone. And as Abby will later discover, God had picked out the perfect companion for her…if only she would let her guard down. As it turned out, giving up her independence wasn’t about letting someone walk all over her (like her father did to her mother). It was about letting someone walk beside her. It wasn’t about giving up her fighting spirit, but going into battle with a partner at her side.
This isn’t just about marriage, either. Like Abby, I’m a doer. I like to get things done, and sometimes I haven’t made time for friendships or family. Other times, I’ve found myself betrayed, or just found it hard to make the connection. But we’re not wired to do life solo. Even when we think we are. We’re better together. Alone, we’re vulnerable. At risk. Not as strong as we look – it’s a recipe for disaster.
Do You Trust God with the Outcome?
A few of the characters made choices they would come to regret because they didn’t think God could fix their situation. They didn’t trust him with the outcome; they didn’t even seem to imagine him involved in the outcome. Instead, they made decisions with life-altering consequences. They even convinced themselves that there was “no other way” to provide for their families.
On the radio, Dave Ramsey will often ask his listeners “what’s option C?” They will have themselves painted into a corner where they only have two choices, and Dave’s point is that there is always another choice. If we feel like we have to do something a certain way, chances are that’s the wrong path. Think about Abraham and Sarah – and Hagar. The effects of not trusting God with the outcome can be devastating. Is there a situation in your life right now where you feel caught between two choices and neither seems right? Pray, ask God for wisdom, and look for option C. And trust God. If the only option makes your stomach turn – and not because of nerves, but rather that Holy Spirit warning – wait for the third choice.
What Secrets are Making You Sick?
When Abby and Zach get married, they agree that there should be no secrets between them. Secrets are a disaster for a marriage. And yet there are some heavy secrets in this house. Abby, Zach, and sister Rosie are all carrying the weight of past mistakes and present secrets. Secrets often go hand-in-hand with the fierce independence thing. Sometimes we convince ourselves we need to be independent because we can’t imagine telling anyone our secret. Other times, we tell ourselves that truly independent people don’t need to share. But as a character on NCIS awhile back said, “We are as sick as our secrets.” And in the words of a speaker that came to my church last year, “sharing takes away the shame.”
Secrets turn into more secrets. Sometimes lies to cover them up. Sometimes fear or anxiety. Walls in our relationships. But if you get them out in the open, they lose their power. What secrets are making you sick? What secrets are standing between you and your relationship with your spouse, your parents, your best friend, your God? It’s probably not wise to share it with the world – yet. (There are exceptions. My life completely turned around when I “went public” with my mountain of debt.)
It’s time to take away the power of those secrets. Take away the sickness and shame that comes with them. Find someone you can confide in. Maybe at first, it will be a therapist (it was for me). But eventually, you’ll lean on your close relationships and share your heart. Maybe you’ll even have to build some of those relationships first. (Again, that was the case for me). But the best day comes when your secret has no power to hurt you anymore…and your story has the power to encourage someone else.
Some Other Things I Liked About This Book
Truthfully, even though she needed to grow out of it, I loved Abby’s fierce independence. I love how this book exposed the way God works through circumstances that don’t make sense to us. I especially loved Zach’s orphan story and his instant protectiveness, first towards Abby and her sister, and later towards others in need. The author did great work in choosing a historical small town – and doing the research to make it real. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance with strong women characters. Just don’t read on an empty stomach…Abby owns a bakery, and she might make you hungry.
I received a review copy of this book; all opinions are my own.
I haven’t yet read the first book in this series, More Than Meets the Eye, but I’m already in love with Karen Witemeyer’s Patchwork Family series. For fans of historical romance, there’s everything to like in Witemeyer’s new release, More Than Words Can Say. It’s been a while since I’ve read one of her books, and this story reminds me of why I enjoy them so much. The author creates characters that I fall in love with, engages my emotions, inspires my daily faith walk, and makes me laugh.
Choosing a husband was much like choosing a good baguette. One looked for a strong outer shell, a tender interior, and most importantly, a tractability of dough to hold whatever shape the baker deemed appropriate.
I adore marriage-of-convenience stories, but have to say that the story of Zacharias and Abigail is a cut above others of this type. They’re the perfect counterpart for each other, exactly what was missing in their lives. And rather than fighting all the time, their relationship begins with witty flirtatious moments on top of sincere commitment.
Abigail is a strong and independent businesswoman, frustrated by and determined not to be overcome by the town’s archaic law forbidding women to own businesses with city limits. Zacharias is a tender protector with a heart bigger than Texas. Strong on the outside, tender on the inside, definitely. But easily moldable? Don’t count on it! The chemistry between these two is wonderful.
Spiritual themes are seamlessly woven throughout – themes like God’s providence, forgiveness and healing. I loved everything about More Than Words Can Say and look forward to much more from the talented Karen Witemeyer.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and Bethany House. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Author Karen Withemeyer writes historical romance because she believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters. She wraps her stories with humor, but the underlying spiritual themes have her stories rise above many that saturate the market. Witemeyer’s love for her home state of Texas is apparent in her flawless research and vivid descriptions of life in Honey Grove, Texas.
“When had a practical solution for saving her bakery turned into an emotional campaign for a love match?”
Abigail Kemp needs a man’s name on her bakery deed to retain ownership of her family business. The search for a solution brings Abigail Kemp and Zach Hamilton into an unconventional alliance. This story is filled with humor and the chemistry between the two practically sizzles as each realize they may want more than just a business arrangement. But each hides secrets and guilt from the past that keeps each from experiencing peace and the ability to look ahead. Their personal struggles touched my heart.
One of my favorite quotes:” Satan is the one who wants to increase our burden, to weigh us down with shame and despair, to steal our joy and the strength of the Lord that goes with it. Believing his lies instead of God’s truth makes us weak.”
I found this story to be delightful. While the happily-ever-after is not a surprise, the journey as Abigail and Zach find the courage to open the hearts to each other will bring a happy sigh to readers. I look forward to reading more stories of this charming Patchwork Family in the future.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the second book in a Patchwork Family, but reads easily as a standalone. Those who have met Zach in More Than Meets the Eye will certainly enjoy this continuation of his story as well as revisiting his siblings briefly, but it isn’t necessary to have read the first book.
My heart just about broke at the end of the last book, as Zach leaves his adopted siblings to make his own way, having seen them both settled. So I picked this novel up with a happy heart, knowing I’d get to see the end of his story, too. I was not disappointed. Seeing the character continue to grow and learn to walk in faith was beautiful, and watching how God can use even our mistakes to bring about positive things gives hope, even through fictional characters’ lives.
This is largely a book about trusting God to provide what we need, even when we might be tempted to think we can handle things on our own. While neither Zach nor Abby do this perfectly, watching their attempts is encouraging for those of us who are attempting to wait on God’s timing in our own lives, too.
There is also a lot to consider about how the past shapes who we become, but we don’t have to let it determine our entire future. We grow and learn, then give it to God and do our best to walk forward, not circling around the worst parts of ourselves.
This is a book full of hope and tender love that grows slowly and beautifully. I highly recommend it for those who like marriage of convenience stories, but anyone who enjoys a thoughtful romance with characters who jump off the page and into the reader’s hearts will surely find much to love in this latest novel by Witemeyer.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
This is the second book in the Patchwork Family series.
I haven’t read the first book yet but with plenty of back story I’m not lost in the story but will go back and read the first story.
This story, it’s just one of those books that make you happy sigh in delight!
How fun that the author researched this book and it’s a real place. It was a walk back in time down the street visiting the lumber yard with Zach and the bakery with Abigail.
I loved this book, I mean really loved it, Abigail and Zach are such a delightful couple and you can feel the passion simmering in the background. Cheerful and humorous go hand in hand in this reading and will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Published June 4th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
More Than Words Can Say is the second book in Ms. Witemeyer’s Patchwork Family series, and I enjoyed it just as much as I did the first book. As usual with Ms. Witemeyer’s books, my reading of it was filled with chuckles and happy sighs as well as a few moments of frustration on behalf of the characters that all led to sweet satisfaction at the end.
I have been waiting since I read More Than Meets the Eye, to find out more about Zacharias Hamilton, Evie’s adopted big brother. More Than Words Can Say did not disappoint in its revealing of Zach’s heart and inner workings. I found Zach’s gruffness to be intriguing in the first book and loved getting to know the man behind that gruffness in this second book. Zach is wiser than he knows and I loved that about his character. He may be the silent type, but when he does speak, it makes what he says all the more precious. He’s far from perfect, but willing to be led and changed by the Lord. I adored how he made a fierce commitment to his marriage and to Abigail even when it wasn’t what he would have expected to have in a marriage. And he made choices to fight for them when outside sources tried to come between them. There’s not much I didn’t love about Zach.
Abigail Kemp, the lovely heroine, is introduced at the beginning of More Than Words Can Say, and in such a way that had me ready to go to battle with her. In spite of Abigail’s take charge, independent kind of personality, she has some insecurities that need dealing with, and I loved how the Lord used Zach to help her see that she is valued and loved just as she is. Both Abigail and Zach have a few things to realize about themselves. Some hurts from their childhoods and lies they believed as a result that, together, they are able to overcome.
I loved Zach and Abigail’s journey throughout the book as they went from acquaintances to finding a rich relationship with each other. Both characters start off with an idea of what they think they need. Zach believes freedom, including that from any family entanglements, is what he most desires and needs. Abigail thinks she needs a husband that will stay out of her bakery business and let her do her own thing. She’s determined that she doesn’t want anything to get in the way of pursuing her baking career and plans. Only God knows what they both really need, the things that will help answer the deeper cries of their hearts. They don’t know what they’re in store for as they embark on this unconventional solution to Abigail’s problems. Little do they know or see just how much growth and blessing God has in store for them. Problems, insecurities, and failings must be faced, but they only grow stronger as they deal with and walk through those things. Things the enemy means for evil, God works for good.
Zach and Abigail make each other better. They help each other grow. They make intentional choices to make their marriage work. There’s nothing I find more satisfying in a book like this. Solid intentionality to work together, to stand together, to fight for each other is what I find to be more romantic than fancy declarations of love. This is real. This is what makes real love in real life work and I love finding that firm foundation in the books I read. It makes for a deeply satisfying read.
Before I go, I must make a quick mention of the supporting characters introduced in this book from the Sinclairs to Lydia Putnam and the other widows to Rosalind, Abigail’s younger sister. Ms. Witemeyer always does an excellent job of writing supporting characters that make me want to know them more. I love the wisdom and encouragement they display and the humor they often add to the story. It wouldn’t be a Karen Witemeyer book without those!
**I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and have chosen to review it. All opinions are my own.
The city council has told Abby that women can not own a business, only men. Wow! She refuses to take their suggestions and takes matters in her own hands by arranging a marriage to her terms. Her first choice for the behind the scenes and not in control is a fellow who is a favorite visitor to her bakery. Quiet, strong and a hard worker. A marriage of convenience? Well, I think they both got a surprise. I loved how this played out!
I was gifted a copy, no review was required, my review is voluntary.
Zacharias Hamilton might be the single most impressively kind, gruff, generous, selfless, handsome teddy bear and hero in Christian fiction! I absolutely loved his character. His past is flawed, sure, with previous choices outside of God’s plan, but with the help of the spunky and wonderful Abigail, he comes to realize that God’s way is truly the best way. I enjoyed relating to the characters, which was easy to do in this story. The baking puns, quirky characters, and seamless writing style make the book well rounded and complete. I did not want to put the book down! And the romance was sweet and spicy, with a realistic progression of their feelings. I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read more by this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions of the review are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
Such a sweet story about a marriage of convenience and forgiveness. The characters were likeable and engaging. I just wanted to keep reading and reading. I felt transported to Honey Grove, Tx. Definitely recommend!
I am so glad that Zacharias Hamilton got his own story! And Abigail was the best match for him. They have a business arrangement to save her bakery. A marriage of convenience. Zach has found 2 more people to protect. This a very sweet story in more than just the bakery sense! You’ll find yourself wanting a sweet roll and staying up late to finish this one! There are some great secondary characters that I hope to see in future books as well. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.
‘He wanted to throw open the cellar door and let all his secrets escape so her light could shine into his dark places. Yet at the same time, he wanted to padlock that door shut and never risk her disappointment.’
Zach’s past and his struggle in the present really touched me. I cried through one particular scene. Witemeyer really makes the characters come alive on the page. More Than Words Can Say might be one of the most descriptive books I’ve read so far this year. I mean listen to this:
‘This wasn’t how the evening was supposed to go. He and Abby were supposed to be sitting on a blanket by the creek, eating fancy hotel food, and sharing kisses. Not standing in the middle of an emotional briar patch, confessing secrets that held the power to destroy everything they’d built.
Yet in the midst of that poisonous bramble, a gentle hand alit on his arm, and his barbed surroundings retracted some of their thorns.’
Wow. An emotional briar patch. Can’t you just see it? All those ‘thorns’ (lies from the enemy) poking and prodding and drawing blood? How many of us can relate to this?? I’m telling you, Witemeyer has outdone herself with this story. And the scene doesn’t stop there. It gets even better because once the truth comes out then Abby has a choice of how to respond, either with condemnation or gentleness, just like we have that same choice when someone shares deep pain with us.
I highly recommend reading both books so you get the full measure of Zach and his beautiful patchwork family! More Than Words Can Say is a fantastic story filled with drama, wit, and love. Fans of historical fiction with a strong redemptive theme will enjoy this book.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. No compensation has been received.
More Than Words Can Say continues the Patchwork Family series by Karen Witemeyer. What a fun, delightful and entertaining story. I loved Abby and Zach and loved how they came together.
I believe More Than Words Can Say is among my favorites I have read this year. I would give it 100 stars if I could. I highly recommend it for readers who love clean and sweet historical fiction with sprinkles of humor. This one is most definitely not one to be missed!
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.