When the Heart Cries is the first book in the Sisters of the Quilt Series by Cindy Woodsmall. Some of you might recall that I’ve had to review this series in reverse order because of the way they became available at the library. When I reviewed the 2nd and 3rd books, I mentioned wondering if I would have enjoyed them more if I had read them in the proper order. Now having read all three books I can say MOST DEFINITELY! If you have the chance to read them in order, I highly recommend that as the better way to go. So many things from the other two books make a lot more sense now.

This book has the typical setup – introducing the characters, setting the scene, etc. I already knew what tragedy was going to take place since I’ve read the other two books, but I was surprised at how early in the story it happened and how long it took to get from the incident to the climax of the story when Hannah leaves home. Some of the issues between characters later in the series make a lot more sense to me now that I was introduced to them from the beginning.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this quick and easy reading series. It has given me a new understanding of the Amish. I will look forward to more books by this author in the future.