In the small town of Arlington, Alabama, there are unspoken rules and traditions that are followed. Seventh grade teacher, Rachel Ellison, believes in rules and traditions, but hers are handed down from a higher authority. Jason Stafford has the same beliefs, but has had trouble finding anyone else who believes what he does. Through a chance encounter, the two find that they have lots in common, good morals, good work ethics, belief in God and a love for the simple life. What they also realize they have in common, is that they have been looking for each other. Unfortunately, another set of people have their eyes on them too. Self-righteous big city lawyer, Carl Maycomb has his sights set on Rachel as well. Flashy party-girl Mandy Winston has her eyes set on Jason, and she has for quite a while. Both Carl and Mandy will try to do whatever it takes to get what they want and feel they are entitled to. But what they don't realize is that when you have a higher authority on your side, it takes a lot to knock you down.

    I have to start off by being honest and saying I normally don't like any books with a "romance" theme, but this book I thoroughly enjoyed. What mostly struck me is the realistic tone and setting this book has. I also liked and appreciated the outlook on both sides of the religion aspect. Most other authors, I believe, would have been content to just speak from their side and their minds about religion, but this author definitely has the ability to see life from all angles. Harvest of Hearts is a book I would recommend for others. I give this book a 5. If I could give a higher number, I would.

Reviewer: Sunshine

ISBN: 1-4241-8284-0