My rating:

add to my books

Her Mother's Hope (Marta's Legacy #1)

by Francine Rivers

4.19 · rating details · 3,031 ratings · 475 reviews

2011 Retailers Choice Award winner The first in an epic two-book saga by beloved author Francine Rivers, this sweeping story explores the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters over several generations. Near the turn of the 20th century, fiery Marta leaves Switzerland determined to find life on her own terms. Her journey takes her through Europe and finall...more

Hardcover, 498 pages

Published March 1st 2010 by Tyndale House Publishers

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

There is a good chance some of your friends read this book. Sign in to see!

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

Best Christian Historical Fiction

49th out of 294 books — 223 voters

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Best Christian Fiction

193rd out of 596 books — 769 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 4,966)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Aug 04, 2011

Deborah Bobo added it

Abused and put down by her father, Marta Schneider, a young Swiss girl, leaves home to attain her goals. Her mother encourages her to “fly.” Marta sees her mother and sister as weak, not standing up to her father. She is highly intelligent and driven. Marta sets her goals and works hard to learn everything that she can about running a boarding house. She purchases one and turns it into a profitable business, but she meets Niclas and falls deeply in love. Will Marta’s love for Niclas be more impo...more

· see review

Dec 31, 2011

Elle rated it

Francine Rivers has an amazing ability to craft a story where you feel emotionally connected to each character and where you hope that the story will never end. Her Mother’s Hope takes you through the childhood of Marta and her experiences of growing up in Switzerland and yearning for something more to do with her life, and eventually follows her to California where she has settled and raised a family. In fear for her daughter and the similarities she possesses with Marta’s own sister she pu...more

· see review

Aug 01, 2011

Rachel Crooks rated it

...I have to admit, this book's cover appeared to me a bit fluffish, promising the kind of tame, hopeful message dipped in sugar that some faith-inspired books tend to have. I have noticed with a great many Christian novels this attempt to show that having a relationship with Christ suddenly fixes everything and makes it better. I love that about faith fiction, but I realized at some point that I was reading them for escape in much the same manner that I watch Disney movies... everything ties u...more...I have to admit, this book's cover appeared to me a bit fluffish, promising the kind of tame, hopeful message dipped in sugar that some faith-inspired books tend to have. I have noticed with a great many Christian novels this attempt to show that having a relationship with Christ suddenly fixes everything and makes it better. I love that about faith fiction, but I realized at some point that I was reading them for escape in much the same manner that I watch Disney movies... everything ties up neatly at the end. It makes for emotional stories that pull at my heartstrings but never quite hit me in the gut. Because the truth is that even while we live our faith in hope, suffering continues to exist, whether in our relationships with others, our misunderstandings of God, or in bearing the hardships others might bring, or even in recognizing, over and over again, our own weaknesses. The books that dismiss the strenuous challenge of persevering with God, one moment at a time, are day-lily types of books.

Francine Rivers has the ability to write an inspiring novel without sugar-coating the hard edges of life. She made it possible to love Marta even when Marta often says some very cruel things to her daughter. I was able to identify with both Marta and Hildemara Rose, even while feeling the angst and the near-misses of their relationship. Sometimes I wanted to laugh and cheer Marta on - her fearlessness of people, her gift of challenging others and bringing out their best, was such a fun thing to watch unfold. Until she started yelling at her husband all the time and failing to trust him when it was clear that he deeply loved her and God - then I felt like shaking her. And Hildemara Rose - there were times when her deep faith and ability to pray for her teacher even under constant criticism were very beautiful - then again, there were also times when, like Marta, I wanted her to show some backbone. Sometimes Marta had the perfect action or word for her daughter - often, she said or did the exact thing that would most injure Hildemara.

What I take away from this book is that each of us have our particular gift, beautiful in itself, but none of us are at our best without others who compliment these gifts and show us ways other than our own. Painful or not, Marta needed Hildie's "gentle as doves" way of faith, and Hildemara needed someone like her mother to show the "crafty as serpents" way. Secondly, I saw that most of us in our deepest relationships would benefit from slowing down, not reacting so quickly, and learning to listen quietly to the other. Marta never learned to react to Hildie apart from seeing the bad consequences of her own sister, whom Hildie resembled. We can often be so blind to what is in front of us because of the past which is behind us. Last, I saw that despite our best intentions, it is hard to escape the little chafings we give each other as we grow in character and faith. It is easy to imagine "the perfect family" who never argues or says hurtful things, but we all do, and the painful process of learning to love each other in these circumstances is often more redeeming than if we were the type of family which could exist in constant harmony. (less)

like 3 likes

· see review

Jun 19, 2011

Melanie rated it

Shelves: mother-daughter, christian-historical-fiction

Her Mother’s Hope
Francine Rivers

Marta’s legacy begins in Switzerland in the year 1901 as a young girl at the age of 12. With a father who was quick to anger and take his anger out on Marta, and a sickly mother, Marta learns quickly that life is difficult. Papa pulls her out of school at age 12, hires her out to tend bee hives, clean hotel rooms and babysit. He finally sends her back to school.. to become a servant. Marta meets a variety of people through her employment and con...more

· see review

Apr 13, 2011

Leah Beecher rated it

· review of another edition

A great saga about mothers and daughters. It also touches on how our experiences with those in our family as a child effect all or our relationships later in life. It takes a very realistic look at husbands and wives as well. I liked this book so very much because it was the first Christian Lit. book that showed the good and bad, ugly and sinful, along with the redemptive and righteous in believable characters. Rivers (the author) shows how Christians, and non-Christian alike, are imperfect peop...more

· see review

Mar 04, 2011

Sarah rated it

The cover made this book seem sappy and sentimental -- not my usual genre. However, I needed something to listen to while concentrating on drafting patterns and this book seemed to be easy listening and not too taxing. I almost didn't get through the first CD because it was over-the-top in its one-sided character development. The writing style is basic and elementary in its portrayals of protagonist, villain and description of places. Phrasing and structure uninspired. In other words, boring...more

· see review

Feb 26, 2011

[They Call Me] Kenny rated it

Recommends it for: People who can stand sadness amidst the happiness

Recommended to [They Call Me] Kenny by: My Mother

Shelves: didnt-want-to-read-but-ended-up-lik, christian-books, i-own-this, realistic-fiction, really-good

This book is so complex.

I loved it and didn't at the same time, because the characters were just so REAL. I could like them, despise them, get angry at them, be happy for them, sad and even worried about them. I came to adore so many of them.... Marta, however, is still my favourite.
I love Trip and Niclas, Boots and Jones. Even Cloe has a bit of my love. Bernie is seriously a pretty awesome brother and husband to Hildemara and Elizabeth. I don't know if I like Elizabeth, but ...more

like 1 like

· see review

Jan 13, 2011

Susan rated it

"The first in an epic two-book saga by beloved author Francine Rivers, this sweeping story explores the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters over several generations. Near the turn of the 20th century, fiery Marta leaves Switzerland determined to find life on her own terms. Her journey takes her through Europe and finally lands her with children and husband in tow in the central valley of California. Marta’s experiences convince her that only the strong survive. Hildie, M...more

like 1 like

· see review

Dec 26, 2010

Elizabeth rated it

Shelves: fiction

This was my first Francine Rivers book, and the enthusiasm expressed by many reviewers was deserved. It was a compelling read because the characters were so well developed and believable, and their lives so interesting and dramatic, that the plot raced along. It begins the two-book saga of several generations of women, starting with Marta, who escaped an abusive father after her loving mother's death and made her way to the states in the early 1900s through sheer grit and determination. In spite...more

· see review

Dec 25, 2010

Laura rated it

I loved this book! Francine Rivers is always impressive, and I loved how she dealt with both the relationship between Marta and her father and then Marta and her own daughter. Growing up with an abusive father determined to keep Marta in her "place", Marta flees and works hard to create a life for herself. Set in the early 1900s, Marta must overcome obstacles for women in general in addition to the shackles that bind her to her family.

When she falls in love and has her own da...more

· see review

Nov 21, 2010

Sarah rated it

I really enjoyed this, it was long but I raced through it and was completely absorbed the whole time. Francine Rivers writes very realistically and convincingly about family and romantic relationships; her characters are all well-drawn and three-dimensional. When two characters were arguing I could always see both points of view, and didn't always side with the heroine, which is unusual in most books but felt so realistic.

Marta had a lot of faults, but a lot of virtues too, and tho...moreI really enjoyed this, it was long but I raced through it and was completely absorbed the whole time. Francine Rivers writes very realistically and convincingly about family and romantic relationships; her characters are all well-drawn and three-dimensional. When two characters were arguing I could always see both points of view, and didn't always side with the heroine, which is unusual in most books but felt so realistic.

Marta had a lot of faults, but a lot of virtues too, and though I found her annoying at times I really respected her in some ways. I could see how the events of her childhood and adolesence had influenced her personality and it was good to be able to understand WHY she was like that. I liked the way she always stood up for herself and refused to let anyone cheat her or take advantage of her, and I admired her work ethic, business sense and determination. But she could be very hard and bitter, she had a lot of trouble trusting/loving anyone and expressing it when she did, and a terrible temper--she would fly into rages and say the most awful unforgivable things to the people she loved the most, then regret it deeply afterwards. She was a very fascinating character.

Halfway through the book the viewpoint changed to her daughter Hildemara who was the exact opposite, shy and retiring and always letting people walk all over her, but gentle and loving. Sometimes I sympathised with Marta and wished Hildie would show a bit of backbone, but other times I sympathised with Hildemara and wished Marta would LAY OFF with the nagging and just show Hildie some of the love and approval she craved. The two of them completely rubbed each other up the wrong way and it was such a relief when Hildie moved away to nurses college and they could stop fighting! Marta even admitted to herself that she was harder or Hildie than her other two daughters, but she thought she had to be because her own sister Elsie (who was a lot like Hildie) let a man take advantage of her and got pregnant and then committed suicide, and Marta was secretly terrified that something similar would happen to Hildie if she didn't teach her to stand up for herself. The way she went about trying to teach her was, I thought, quite unfair and awful (e.g. refusing to pay for nursing college and making her go out and find work to save the money, among other things), but in a way it worked, and her intentions were good, so I don't know if I can judge her too harshly for it.

All in all it was a very interesting character study of two very different women and I'd like to read the sequel (which apparently deals with how they managed to patch up their relationship in the end, and also with Hildie's relationship with her own daughter). (less)

· see review

Aug 22, 2010

Auntie rated it

Shelves: finished

I was so taken by the first descriptive passages in the introductory chapters,that I just had to pick up a fine pen and do some sketching.
Mountains, Swiss children running, log seats and lifetime friendships...This story had it all and more. I'm so glad I read it on my computer/e-reader "Nook" as it is only the first half (and a rather hefty book size!) of a history of Grandmothers, Mothers and Daughters.

As the child of 2nd generation immigrants, I resonated strongly...more

· see review

Jun 27, 2010

Ruth rated it

Her Mother's Hope (Marta's Legacy) is the story of mothers and daughters, three generations of women in the same family. Marta is the main character. She was born in Switzerland in the late 1800's. Her father was a tailor, her mother a seamstress. She was a bright child who loved school but her father made her drop out and go to work even before she finished elementary school. Her father was also both verbally and physically abusive. She had a sister who was the apple of her father's eye a...moreHer Mother's Hope (Marta's Legacy) is the story of mothers and daughters, three generations of women in the same family. Marta is the main character. She was born in Switzerland in the late 1800's. Her father was a tailor, her mother a seamstress. She was a bright child who loved school but her father made her drop out and go to work even before she finished elementary school. Her father was also both verbally and physically abusive. She had a sister who was the apple of her father's eye and her mother's pet. However, her sister, like her mother, had little fight in her. Both were pleasers. Marta is sent off to housekeeping school and works her way through a series of jobs in hotels, boarding houses and mansions until finally going to Canada to pursue her dreams. She meets and marries Niclas and has to give up all she has worked for to follow him first to western Canada and then to California. Along the way they have four children, including the second major character in the book, Hildamara. Like her grandmother and aunt, Hildamara is a pleaser, a servant. Marta keeps pushing her, demanding things of her, trying to get her to stand up for herself, to demand what she wants or needs, but Hildamara doesn't; she just becomes more convinced that her mother doesn't love her.

The book takes us from Switzerland to Paris to England to Canada and finally to California. We see Marta growing into a successful business woman, and finally realizing that she is worthy of being loved. We see her daughter suffer the same feelings of unworthiness due to her inability (she believes) to gain her mother's love. Finally we see Marta realizing that while Hildamara's strength isn't the same type as hers, she does indeed have the strength she so desired her daughter to have.

Her Mother's Hope is Christian fiction. We often hear how the family attended church. At the beginning of the book Marta is in church shortly after a beating by her father. The pastor speaks about the need to continue to work at staying on the right path and Marta wonders if God is like her father--impossible to please. One thing that attracts Hildamara's eventual husband to her is her prayerfulness. Still, this is a powerful book about the relationships between parents and children and to dismiss it because you don't read Christian fiction would be a mistake.(less)

· see review

Jun 21, 2010

Tenille Shade rated it

Shelves: reading-for-pleasure

Nora came down to during the month of June, and she was dead set on buying me a birthday gift. We went to the bookstore to see if we could find a few titles related to a series she was reading, and I noticed Francine Rivers had published a new book. It was pretty thick, but I didn’t mind because I’ve read some of her other books, and I know she is a master story teller. Redeeming Love is my favorite love story ever written, and I was intrigued by the title of her new book. I was also in desperat...moreNora came down to during the month of June, and she was dead set on buying me a birthday gift. We went to the bookstore to see if we could find a few titles related to a series she was reading, and I noticed Francine Rivers had published a new book. It was pretty thick, but I didn’t mind because I’ve read some of her other books, and I know she is a master story teller. Redeeming Love is my favorite love story ever written, and I was intrigued by the title of her new book. I was also in desperate need of some fiction to read since I’ve been devouring “teacher books” lately. Summer is a good time to read a grown up novel for fun!

The story started off kind of slow. When the book began, Marta was an eight year old girl living in a tiny village in Switzerland. At first, I got lost a lot, because I had a hard time understanding the cultural nuisances of the European people and the time in history when the story takes place. The first chapter is dated 1905. There were a lot of German words, and I could make sense of some of them because we had read A Paradise Called Texas this year in class.

There were a few scenes that were emotionally tough to read because Marta was physically abused by her father. She out performed her brother on school exams, and her dad was angry that she had embarrassed the family. He was a cruel man who mistreated Marta and her mother. I felt so bad for Marta because although her mother encouraged her to fly, she always felt guilty about abandoning her family. When her mother died and she found out her little sister had committed suicide, I was shocked. I think I would have left my homeland too, and started a new life where I didn’t have to be reminded of my grief daily. Of course, the heartache followed her and she ended up allowing her wounds to harm her own family.

About half way through the book, the main character changed from Marta to her daughter Hildemarie. At first I was bothered by this because the narrator switched roles, but now I think the author was just trying to get me to see how the mom and daughters lives were woven together like a tapestry. I felt sorry for Hildie because Marta was so hard on her. She projected her unresolved feelings about her sister, Elise, onto her daughter, and it eventually caused Hildie to resent her mother.

This book affirmed what I already know about how generational secrets create havoc in the lives of children. I found myself reflecting on why people were so closed off in the past, and why we refuse to be honest about our struggles and heartache. I am so glad we live in a world today where vulnerability and transparency are valued instead of shunned. While reading this book my husband had a candid conversation with his children about their parents’ divorce. He laid all the cards on the table which helped Hunter and Chandler process and see the big picture. Secrets and shame can cause a lot of heartache if we allow them to.

I was totally bummed when I turned to the last page of the book and discovered that this is a series. I have to wait until the fall to read the next installment and find out if Marta and Hildie get past their differences. I appreciated the author’s note where she explained that these characters are based on real people in her own family. I don’t know if this would be considered biographical or not, but I love when authors blend truth with fiction. Francine Rivers is an author I plan to follow for years to come!(less)

like 1 like

· see review

Jun 11, 2010

Judith rated it

Shelves: fiction

This book is about mother-daughter relationship. Being a new mother myself, I had mixed feelings reading this book. The characters are believable, so the story acted as a mirror.
Marta is a stubborn, go-getter, who's had a hard life. She had a mother who was loving, yet weak, and who "over-protected" her sister Elise to the point of making her an incapable of surviving. She did not want to make the same mistake with her own children, so when her first daughter Hildermara tur...more

· see review

May 10, 2010

Pathway rated it

This books was a marvelous read. Based very loosely on her own family's history, Francine Rivers deftly moves through the lives of a Swiss immigrant and her family, from 1900 all the way up to 1952. The story focuses first on Marta, a young woman raised in Steffisburg, Switzerland who moves across Europe learning all she can in the hopes of opening her own boardinghouse or hotel. Her drive and ambition take her to pre-World War I Canada where she meets her husband and embarks on a courageous and...more

· see review

Apr 26, 2010

Keiki rated it

With a clear picture of an abusive life and the wonder of redemption, Her Mother's Hope (Book One of the Marta's Legacy Series) Francine Rivers gently weaves reality into redemption.

There is no escape, or so it seems, from life's harsh tribulations for some. So it was with Marta Waltert and her daughter Hildie. Set in the early 20th century and spanning the globe, this book brings to focus the generational behaviors, some good and some very bad, passed from parent to child and on aga...moreWith a clear picture of an abusive life and the wonder of redemption, Her Mother's Hope (Book One of the Marta's Legacy Series) Francine Rivers gently weaves reality into redemption.

There is no escape, or so it seems, from life's harsh tribulations for some. So it was with Marta Waltert and her daughter Hildie. Set in the early 20th century and spanning the globe, this book brings to focus the generational behaviors, some good and some very bad, passed from parent to child and on again.

The parenting style of abuse will touch the hearts of those who have suffered at the hand of a parent who should have been provided protection, love and comfort but because of their own reactions to difficulties in their lives, pass on an insecure and abusive tradition to their children. It reveals the realization many feel when they say `I'll never be like my father` only to discover through trials of their own, that they react with the same destructive behavior only opposite in their application.

Marta desires to fulfill her own mother's dreams for her and Hildie does as well. It is interesting to see the different path each woman takes on their way to this goal.

The first 14 Chapters are of Marta and her perspective. The remaining 30 are from Hildemara Rose. The `Note to the Reader` section was particularly enlightening because they reveal the story behind the writing of Her Mother's Hope as the author walks the reader through the real life events in her life that inspired many of the scenes and events in the book. At the end is a Discussion Guide perfect for Book Clubs and Reader's Group.

If you are looking for a quick read, this is not the one. But, if you are a Christian looking for an engaging story that will connect with your personal walk with God, time is not an issue. It is beautifully written, with extraordinary insight into the mother daughter relationship.

I recommend it highly and give this one (as all Francine Rivers novels) high marks.

Disclaimer:
The review copy of this book was provided free of charge by Tyndale House Publishers and was donated to the library of Westwood Baptist Church.

Reviewed by: Keiki Hendrix
Reviewed for: Tyndale House Publishers (less)

· see review

Apr 20, 2010

Kris rated it

Recommends it for: anyone

Recommended to Kris by: I'm a big fan and was waiting for Francine to release a new book

Shelves: recommend

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

· see review

Apr 12, 2010

Nora rated it

I’ve read and have been deeply moved by Francine Rivers’ books, so I anxiously awaited my review copy of this epic story. Francine does an amazing job of creating complex characters which instantly grab at your heart strings.

The reader first meets Marta Schnieder as a young girl doing her best to cope with a task master father. She loves to learn and has great dreams of speaking many languages, going to college and maybe even owning a business. Marta's dream crashes when her father ...moreI’ve read and have been deeply moved by Francine Rivers’ books, so I anxiously awaited my review copy of this epic story. Francine does an amazing job of creating complex characters which instantly grab at your heart strings.

The reader first meets Marta Schnieder as a young girl doing her best to cope with a task master father. She loves to learn and has great dreams of speaking many languages, going to college and maybe even owning a business. Marta's dream crashes when her father demands she work several jobs to make money for the family. Marta vows she will never be just a servant girl. She would prove her father’s image of her wrong.

Her mother comforts Marta saying, “Marta, listen to me…It doesn’t matter what your father plans, nor what his motives might be. God will prevail. God will use anything to His good purpose if you love and trust Him.”

Marta says, “I know what I want in life, and I’m going after it. I’m not going to let things happen to me. I’m going to make things happen.”

Not only is Marta feisty, but she has a good eye for business and will fight for what is right. I was amazed at how Marta embraced modern conveniences as they were available. The first big leap was indoor plumping. What a treat for her and her family.

Since I’ve grown up having all these new gadgets I found it quite interesting to read about people discovering them for the first time. It was fascinating to see how it changed family dynamics and the way people lived life. I was intrigued by history with all its changes and how people treated one another during each phase.

I enjoyed the use of personal letters written between the characters. It was very affective in getting to know the heart of each character; it also made the story very personal. You’ll be as interested as I am to see how this family survives the war in the sequel, which is due out Fall of 2010.

Nora St.Laurent
ACFW Book Club Coordinator
Finding Hope Through Fiction
www.psalm516.blogspot.com (less)

· see review

Feb 27, 2010

Cindy rated it

Beginning in 1906 in Switzerland, Marta Schneider is twelve years old with a deep love for learning, she has aspirations of going higher in her education. But a father who is a tailor and a drunk, has different plans, he will hire her out to do any type of work to bring in money to his house. Marta has good employer's and she is a hard worker but she has much more ambition than being a serving girl all her life.

Working her way across Europe, and eventually into Canada she r...more

like 2 likes

· see review

Apr 11, 2010

Molly rated it

Recommended to Molly by: Christian Speaker Services

Do you ever have that feeling that no matter what you do, your dreams and hopes will never come true? That you will always be a disappointment to the people who should be cherishing you the most no matter what? Well, that is exactly what happened to Marta, the young girl in this novel. My heart was immediately captured from the beginning, when she, just a girl of 12 years old, went through so much struggle, pain and heartache. I was hooked through the whole book, seeing Marta become a woman and ...more

· see review

Mar 26, 2010

Theresa rated it

Recommends it for: Teens through Adult

Shelves: christian, fiction, historical-fiction, review-copy

If I had to sum up this novel in one word, it would be "WOW"! "Her Mother's Hope" is an emotionally gripping story based on the lives of the author's mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. It was researched and written when the author wanted to understand more about her mother's and grandmother's relationship. This is and absolutely unforgettable story of love and determination, faith, friendship, and most importantly family.

This is my first exposure to anythi...more

like 3 likes

· see review

Sep 06, 2010

Lynda rated it

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

· see review

Apr 03, 2010

Carly rated it

I have heard many wonderful things about Francine Rivers’ novel and was delighted to have a chance to read her newest novel, Her Mother’s Hope. This book is the first book in the Marta’s Legacy series and it begins in Switzerland in 1901 when Marta is a child of twelve. This epic story takes readers on a long journey that spans many decades and the many trials and tragedies of Marta’s life.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is that there is never a lull. I never onc...moreI have heard many wonderful things about Francine Rivers’ novel and was delighted to have a chance to read her newest novel, Her Mother’s Hope. This book is the first book in the Marta’s Legacy series and it begins in Switzerland in 1901 when Marta is a child of twelve. This epic story takes readers on a long journey that spans many decades and the many trials and tragedies of Marta’s life.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is that there is never a lull. I never once found myself bored or my mind wandering, which is quite impressive considering the length of the book. The book is written in a conversational tone and has the feeling of sitting and chatting with an old friend who is telling you the story of a mother and daughter while flipping through the pages of the old family photo album. This made the pages fly by and made it very difficult to put down. I was really very impressed by Francine Rivers’ writing and storytelling. I can see why she has such loyal readers.
One thing about this book that was a bit challenging was the fact that there was almost always something bad happening or some sort of tension, often extreme tension. It was this aspect that made this book one of least relaxing books I’ve read. Marta was not an easy person to like initially, but I started to understand her better as the book moved on. I actually found this book creeping into my sleep at times, which I don’t care for. I’m sure the author did that for a good reason, there were signs of that toward the end of the book which really makes me anxious to read the second book in the series.
Her Mother’s Hope does leave the reader feeling hope by the end of the book, but it also leaves the reader hanging. I will definitely want to read the conclusion to Marta’s Legacy as soon as it comes out. My overall impression of Her Mother’s Hope is a positive one. Even though there is a lot of drama and many unsettling situations and arguments in this book, I still found it to be a terrific story and extremely well written. I appreciate a book that challenges the reader and this book definitely does that.
I’m sure fans of Francine Rivers will love this book and I’m sure first time readers of her books (like me) will quickly become fans.
(less)

· see review

Aug 10, 2011

Laura rated it

Shelves: fiction

This is only the second book I've ever read by Francine Rivers. The first was "Redeeming Love" which was one of the best books I've ever read. But I have also heard that it was her best book by far so I haven't been as anxious to dive into another one by this author. I like Christian fiction and I really appreciate stories written in different periods. In this case the early 1900's through World War II which is one of the settings I gravitate to most. I also enjoy when a story takes...more

· see review

May 10, 2011

Nicole rated it

I had a very strange experience reading this book. It really dragged at parts. The plot wasn't terribly exciting and the pacing was annoying - I don't particularly like having years pass between each chapter. As far as entertainment goes, it wasn't that great. All that being said, I cried from the beginning of this book until the end. Some of that might have been end-of-the-semester catharsis, but a lot of it wasn't. The themes in this book are powerful. Some things in this book just resonate...more

· see review

Dec 06, 2011

Tera Slawson rated it

My boss brought this book (along with other books by this author) to work and told me and some other ladies that we "had to read these books." We didn't have to, but when your boss tells you that you should read something it's a good idea to check it out. While I'm a Christian, I haven't really gotten into Christian fiction. Because most the time it's a romance novel with a sprinkle of Jesus thrown in, not really my thing. The first book Redeeming Love was good. But this book was so so...more

· see review

Apr 17, 2011

Lisa rated it

I listened to this story as an audiobook, and it was an excellent production. It was easy to get into the story, although frustrating to read about Marta’s constant troubles with her father. (I think I’ve been reading too many books about women being oppressed!) Marta proves to be a strong and driven woman who doesn’t stop until she achieves her dream… until she meets Niclas.

After Marta marries Niclas, the story begins to go downhill. Marta is no longer the independent woman she ha...moreI listened to this story as an audiobook, and it was an excellent production. It was easy to get into the story, although frustrating to read about Marta’s constant troubles with her father. (I think I’ve been reading too many books about women being oppressed!) Marta proves to be a strong and driven woman who doesn’t stop until she achieves her dream… until she meets Niclas.

After Marta marries Niclas, the story begins to go downhill. Marta is no longer the independent woman she had been, but is now simply Mrs. Waltert. She gives up her life’s work to submit to the will of her husband and continues to follow him all over Canada and into California to help him fulfill his dreams, neglecting her own and living in a tent simply because her husband is too proud to admit that his wife has the ability to be more successful than him.

The story becomes increasingly frustrating as the viewpoint shifts to that of Hildemara Rose, including letters told from Marta’s viewpoint. Marta is now shown through a different light, harsh and even cruel to her oldest daughter. Marta’s parenting of Hildemara becomes very much like her own father’s parenting (minus the physical abuse). It is frustrating to see the story progress in that manner, even as Hildie becomes independent and leaves home. Marta continues to be cruel to Hildie, despite the fact that she has proven that she is not Elise. Personally, I would love to have a daughter who would come home and start helping out with chores around the house!

When the story shifts back to Marta’s viewpoint, I find it so hard to believe that it took half of her daughter’s adult life to realize that she was such a mean parent. It seems totally out of character that the Marta from the first part of the story, who is so intelligent and thoughtful, would take so long to realize her terrible mistakes in raising her daughter. I understand that she did not want Hildie to become like Elise, but I think she went about it in a terrible way.

As frustrating as I found Marta’s shift in character, I do want to read the second book to see how the story will end. Hopefully it is not too late to repair the relationship between mother and daughter. I also look forward to discussing this book at book club to see how other people interpreted the story.
(less)

· see review

Feb 24, 2011

Donna rated it

I have read several of Francine Rivers' books before and loved them. The Last Sin Eater I have read two times. She is a wonder writer and this one was a moving saga of mothers and daughters. From the mountains of Switzerland to Canada and then California, it follows the lives of Marta and then her daughter, Hildemara Rose. Marta is a strong woman whose life emerges through difficulties as a child and young adult. She finds a wonder love and then children. She, like all of us, brings her be...more

· see review

Apr 11, 2010

Jennifer AlLee rated it

In Her Mother's Hope, Francine Rivers presents a story that transcends time lines and border lines, reaching to the very core of the mother/daughter relationship. At 483 pages, Her Mother's Hope is not a short read, but for me, it was a quick one. I found myself hesitant to put the book down, even when I knew I had to. One of the things I appreciate most about Rivers' writing is the elegant simplicity of her prose. Not once did I stop to note how skillfully the book was crafted. Not because her ...more

· see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 165 166 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

There are no discussion topics on this book yet. Be the first to start one »

Recommend it | Stats | Recent status updates

combine
Other Editions (11)

More editions...

Videos About This Book

Add a comment

Francine Rivers interview: Her Mother's Hope

Add a comment

Genres

Christian Fiction

79 users

Historical Fiction

32 users

Christian

29 users

Adult

8 users

Book Club

7 users

Christian Fiction > Christian Historical Fiction

5 users

Religion

5 users

Inspirational

5 users

Womens Fiction > Chick Lit

4 users

Adult Fiction

3 users

See top shelves...

Readers Also Enjoyed

About Francine Rivers

From the Author's Web Site: Francine Rivers began her literary career at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Journalism. From 1976 to 1985, she had a successful writing career in the general market and her books were awarded or nominated for numerous awards and prizes. Although raised in a religious home, Francine did not truly encounte...moreFrom the Author's Web Site: Francine Rivers began her literary career at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Journalism. From 1976 to 1985, she had a successful writing career in the general market and her books were awarded or nominated for numerous awards and prizes. Although raised in a religious home, Francine did not truly encounter Christ until later in life, when she was already a wife, mother of three, and an established romance novelist. Shortly after becoming a born-again Christian in 1986, Francine wrote Redeeming Love as her statement of faith. First published by Bantam Books, and then re-released by Multnomah Publishers in the mid- 1990s, this retelling of the biblical story of Gomer and Hosea set during the time of the California Gold Rush is now considered by many to be a classic work of Christian fiction. Redeeming Love continues to be one of the Christian Booksellers Association’s top-selling titles and it has held a spot on the Christian bestseller list for nearly a decade.

Since Redeeming Love, Francine has published numerous novels with Christian themes – all bestsellers-- and she has continued to win both industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her Christian novels have been awarded or nominated for numerous awards including the Rita Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Gold Medallion, and the Holt Medallion in Honor of Outstanding Literary Talent. In 1997, after winning her third Rita award for Inspirational Fiction, Francine was inducted into the Romance Writers’ of America Hall of Fame. Francine’s novels have been translated into over twenty different languages and she enjoys best-seller status in many foreign countries including Germany, The Netherlands, and South Africa.

Francine and her husband Rick live in Northern California and enjoy the time spent with their three grown children and every opportunity to spoil their four grandchildren. She uses her writing to draw closer to the Lord, and that through her work she might worship and praise Jesus for all He has done and is doing in her life.
(less)

More about Francine Rivers...

Books by Francine Rivers

A Voice in the Wind (Mark of the Lion, #1)

An Echo in the Darkness (Mark of the Lion, #2)

As Sure as the Dawn (Mark of the Lion, #3)

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Pin It

Trivia About Her Mother's Hope

1 quiz

More quizzes & trivia...

Groups That Shelved Her Mother's Hope

Christian Historical Fiction

431 members

last activity Feb 08, 2012 04:03pm

shelf: read

the outsiders

54 members

last activity 13 hours, 32 min ago

shelf: read

Francine Rivers Fans

1 member

last activity Feb 03, 2012 12:03pm

shelf: read

title link	preview: Her Mother's Hope
avg rating	preview: Her Mother's Hope Goodreads rating: 4.19 (3031 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6926176-her-mother-s-hope?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1275683229m/6926176.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6926176-her-mother-s-hope?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers[/url]

Her Mother's Hope (Marta's Legacy #1)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Readers Also Enjoyed

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website