Kim Vogel Sawyer’s Beginnings

(An interview follows the review.)

Having read one of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s historicals, the fantastic book Waiting for Summers Return, I admit it took me a few pages to adjust to the contemporary setting of Beginnings. Though the backdrop is the Mennonite community, the protagonist, Beth Quinn, encapsulates a very modern, headstrong woman of the outside world.

Once I became accustomed to Sawyer’s descriptions of travel having to do with a motor instead of a team and wagon, and despite not having read the first book in the Sommerfeld series, I fell into the story.

I found myself caring about Beth’s aspirations as much as she did, even to the point of worrying over them. With two men wanting her attention, a new stain-glass art business to get off the ground, and the ever-present questioning of her place in the community, Beth must turn to the Lord to make her dreams come true.

Gentle strings of faith ran throughout this well-written novel and left me with a fresh perspective on the importance of family, community, and trusting the Lord to direct our lives.

I’m so grateful that Kim is stopping by to answer a few questions:

1) What drew you to writing about the Mennonite community?

Actually, I was contacted by an editor from Barbour who had discovered I have a Mennonite background. Knowing of the interest in the Plain groups, she asked if I would be interested in submitting a story that could juxtapose the Mennonites with the Amish. When I prayed about it, these characters sprang to life. I really appreciated the opportunity.

2) How did you research the stain glass art business? Have you ever done this yourself?

I did quite a bit of on-line research and also communicated with Joyce Livingston, an author-friend who is a stained glass artist. Joyce was a lot of help. After writing about it, I’m ready to dabble in it myself…when I have time! :o)

3) How many books are planned in this series?

There will be three books in the Sommerfeld Trilogy. Bygones released in April of 2007, and Blessings will be out in February of 2008.

4) Anything else you’d like to say?

These stories are special to me, and God has used each of them to minister to me while writing them. I truly hope they will touch the hearts of readers. Thanks for the opportunity to share with you!

Thank you, Kim. Everyone, go buy this book!