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Purls and Prayers #1
The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady
"Mondragon debuts with this charming tale of knitting, faith, and change. . . . Inspirational fans who enjoy the work of Rachel Hauck will love this story."
-- Publishers Weekly
Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran had a good thing meet every week in the quiet of their peaceful chapel and knit prayer shawls. No muss, just ministry. That is, until their pastor boots them out of the church in his last-ditch effort to revive the dwindling congregation.
Uptight Margaret isn't having it. Knitting prayer shawls where people can watch is the most ridiculous idea she's ever heard of, and she's heard plenty. Prayer belongs in the church, not out among the heathen masses. How are they supposed to knit holiness into these shawls if they're constantly distracted by the public? But with no choice, the others embrace the challenge. They pack their knitting bags and drag Margaret--grumbling the whole way--to the mall with them. She can't wait to prove them all wrong when it fails miserably, and show the pastor that she always knows best.
Without the familiar mold the group has been stuck in, their own losses, pain, and struggles rise to the surface. And the people and situations they encounter every time they try to sit quietly and knit are taking them a lot further out of their comfort zone than they ever imagined. Can they find the courage to tackle the increasing number of knotty issues they learn about in the community--or will the tangle be too much to unravel?
Sharon Mondragon's debut is warm and delightful, full of real laughter, grief, and personality. It beautifully illustrates the power of women across generations to reach people for Christ.
-- Publishers Weekly
Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran had a good thing meet every week in the quiet of their peaceful chapel and knit prayer shawls. No muss, just ministry. That is, until their pastor boots them out of the church in his last-ditch effort to revive the dwindling congregation.
Uptight Margaret isn't having it. Knitting prayer shawls where people can watch is the most ridiculous idea she's ever heard of, and she's heard plenty. Prayer belongs in the church, not out among the heathen masses. How are they supposed to knit holiness into these shawls if they're constantly distracted by the public? But with no choice, the others embrace the challenge. They pack their knitting bags and drag Margaret--grumbling the whole way--to the mall with them. She can't wait to prove them all wrong when it fails miserably, and show the pastor that she always knows best.
Without the familiar mold the group has been stuck in, their own losses, pain, and struggles rise to the surface. And the people and situations they encounter every time they try to sit quietly and knit are taking them a lot further out of their comfort zone than they ever imagined. Can they find the courage to tackle the increasing number of knotty issues they learn about in the community--or will the tangle be too much to unravel?
Sharon Mondragon's debut is warm and delightful, full of real laughter, grief, and personality. It beautifully illustrates the power of women across generations to reach people for Christ.
264 pages, Paperback
First published September 21, 2021
68 people are currently reading
1057 people want to read
About the author
Sharon J. Mondragón
8 books153 followersSharon Mondragon is not just a nice lady who knits. She's the author of award-winning fiction that takes you to the place where courage and kindness meet.
Like some of the characters in The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady, she was once content to live well within her comfort zone. At the age of 19, however, she realized that she wouldn't have much to show for such a life. She accepted the challenge and recklessly prayed for adventure.
The ensuing years as an Army spouse and the mother of five wildly individual children have been filled with both thrilling and devastating moments, undergirded by the faithful hand of the God who inspired the prayer.
The Army years are over, but the adventure continues in Midlothian, Texas, where Sharon lives with her hero/husband, her laptop, and her yarn stash.
Like some of the characters in The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady, she was once content to live well within her comfort zone. At the age of 19, however, she realized that she wouldn't have much to show for such a life. She accepted the challenge and recklessly prayed for adventure.
The ensuing years as an Army spouse and the mother of five wildly individual children have been filled with both thrilling and devastating moments, undergirded by the faithful hand of the God who inspired the prayer.
The Army years are over, but the adventure continues in Midlothian, Texas, where Sharon lives with her hero/husband, her laptop, and her yarn stash.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
August 22, 2021
This precious story took me completely by surprise in a most wonderful way. When four ladies who meet every Wednesday morning to knit prayer shawls and pray in their church's prayer chapel are told by the pastor they need to knit elsewhere, they are thrown into a bit of a tizzy. One, especially, Margaret Benson, who needs to be in control at all times, bucks against the pastor's wishes. They all thought that knitting the prayer shawls at the church while praying over them was the place to do it. Each of the ladies, however, has an issue that needs to be addressed and it can't happen within the confines of the prayer chapel.
Sometimes God interrupts our plans with His own. Because He has something to accomplish in our lives and He uses His children to do it. The ladies move to the mall to do their knitting and praying and many lives end up being touched by their mission. And they themselves just might feel the hand of God in their own lives in a wonderful and totally unexpected way. This was a very precious and fulfilling read. Now I want a prayer shawl.
My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and the opinion here is my own.
Sometimes God interrupts our plans with His own. Because He has something to accomplish in our lives and He uses His children to do it. The ladies move to the mall to do their knitting and praying and many lives end up being touched by their mission. And they themselves just might feel the hand of God in their own lives in a wonderful and totally unexpected way. This was a very precious and fulfilling read. Now I want a prayer shawl.
My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and the opinion here is my own.
May 27, 2021
I had the delightful honor to read this novel in order to endorse. It's fantastic and cozy and hopeful and I adored the characters (even the one who made it difficult to love her). Highly recommend. Preorder this one, reading friends!
May 10, 2023
I had a fun day rereading the Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady. On Facebook there has been a lot of talk about this book so I wanted to reread this book and it was fabulous as it was the 1st time for me. Four ladies knitting prayer shawls in the mall when the prayer room is Under construction. There they meet many new faces and a lot of prayers to pray. Such a touching and fun book. Each of the ladies are struggling in their personal lives as well and watching God at work through each lady is wonderful to see. I highly recommend this book it’s not just for knitters for everyone who believes in the power of prayer.
January 31, 2025
I finished Grandma Ruth Doesn't Go To Funerals and turned to the author's backlist...this one sounded good.
IT MORE THAN MET MY EXPECTATIONS!
I can't wait to read the second book in the duology.
⭐ Review to follow ⭐
IT MORE THAN MET MY EXPECTATIONS!
I can't wait to read the second book in the duology.
⭐ Review to follow ⭐
September 27, 2021
This story was such a surprise! I had no idea I was going to enjoy it so much.
You know when there's a character that you just can't stand for whatever reason? Because the author has written that character SO well that you are fed up with them almost from the start? This author had this gift with a couple of the characters in her book. On the flip side she created characters who tugged on my heartstrings or made me want to hug them.
This is women's fiction at its best. Four women at different stages in life (mostly) who are dealing with all kind of things. I loved the depth of each one and could see myself in each of them to a degree. I could relate to Margaret and her unhealthy need for control... over everything. I don't know how her legalism didn't push every single person away from her! And Rose... she's a great reminder to all of us that just because someone is older, it doesn't mean they're invalids. Fran and Jane, though younger than the other ladies had a LOT going on emotionally as well.
Their Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry, while a good ministry the way it was, became something of a super natural powerhouse once they moved to the mall. I loved watching God work not only in the lives of mall goers, but even more so in the lives of the women in the ministry. Seeing God move in different and unexpected ways was a treat, even when it was difficult sometimes. I think that's what I loved the most about this story - how God moved in so many ways. He gave evidence of himself over and over again.
I was surprised at how emotional this book was. Coming to care for each of the main characters was easy, but it was just as easy to be touched by the secondary characters. I have to admit, I want to learn how to knit now and wish I Rose was in my life. Crazy as it might seem, but I think she was my favorite character. Yes, the 85 yr old woman living in assisted living is my favorite. I need a Rose in my life.
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
You know when there's a character that you just can't stand for whatever reason? Because the author has written that character SO well that you are fed up with them almost from the start? This author had this gift with a couple of the characters in her book. On the flip side she created characters who tugged on my heartstrings or made me want to hug them.
This is women's fiction at its best. Four women at different stages in life (mostly) who are dealing with all kind of things. I loved the depth of each one and could see myself in each of them to a degree. I could relate to Margaret and her unhealthy need for control... over everything. I don't know how her legalism didn't push every single person away from her! And Rose... she's a great reminder to all of us that just because someone is older, it doesn't mean they're invalids. Fran and Jane, though younger than the other ladies had a LOT going on emotionally as well.
Their Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry, while a good ministry the way it was, became something of a super natural powerhouse once they moved to the mall. I loved watching God work not only in the lives of mall goers, but even more so in the lives of the women in the ministry. Seeing God move in different and unexpected ways was a treat, even when it was difficult sometimes. I think that's what I loved the most about this story - how God moved in so many ways. He gave evidence of himself over and over again.
I was surprised at how emotional this book was. Coming to care for each of the main characters was easy, but it was just as easy to be touched by the secondary characters. I have to admit, I want to learn how to knit now and wish I Rose was in my life. Crazy as it might seem, but I think she was my favorite character. Yes, the 85 yr old woman living in assisted living is my favorite. I need a Rose in my life.
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
September 23, 2021
A heartwarming read about friendship, faith and the power of prayer.
An engaging read filled with colorful characters and heartfelt moments, I loved the strong themes of faith and friendship throughout. We also get to know each of the main characters, their struggles and challenges, as they knit and pray. I appreciated the original premise, and as a knitter myself its clear that the author knows her stuff!
A cozy, feel-good read, with a little something for everyone. I loved the full cast of characters, as well as the idea of knitting at the mall as a ministry. This was such and enjoyable read, heartwarming, and hard to put down, I loved that I became just as invested in the supporting characters lives as well as those of Fran, Rose, Jane, and Margaret. Filled with charm, and endearing characters that you can root for, this is a winning read from beginning to end!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
An engaging read filled with colorful characters and heartfelt moments, I loved the strong themes of faith and friendship throughout. We also get to know each of the main characters, their struggles and challenges, as they knit and pray. I appreciated the original premise, and as a knitter myself its clear that the author knows her stuff!
A cozy, feel-good read, with a little something for everyone. I loved the full cast of characters, as well as the idea of knitting at the mall as a ministry. This was such and enjoyable read, heartwarming, and hard to put down, I loved that I became just as invested in the supporting characters lives as well as those of Fran, Rose, Jane, and Margaret. Filled with charm, and endearing characters that you can root for, this is a winning read from beginning to end!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 10, 2021
Ever pick up a book and know it's just for you? That's how I felt about this book when I seen it. Why you ask? Because it answered so many of my questions that I had. It also had me in tears. Yes, I even snickered in a few spots too.
Love, Hope and forgiveness are offered throughout this book.
Each of the ladies was a delight in getting to know. Even grumpy old Margaret. Eventually she became my favorite character. I think it's because she reminds me of two real life people I know that absolutely has to be a control freak to put it mildly.
I finished this book this morning. It was very good.
I felt the way it ended so abruptly that there might be another book coming? I sure hope so!
5 stars for the excellent writing that was done and for making the book realistic.
And too, for not beating around the difficult subjects that life throws at you.
I really recommend this book. Whatever you are going through I believe this book will comfort you! I d I did me.
My thanks to Read with Audra/Netgalley for providing a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Love, Hope and forgiveness are offered throughout this book.
Each of the ladies was a delight in getting to know. Even grumpy old Margaret. Eventually she became my favorite character. I think it's because she reminds me of two real life people I know that absolutely has to be a control freak to put it mildly.
I finished this book this morning. It was very good.
I felt the way it ended so abruptly that there might be another book coming? I sure hope so!
5 stars for the excellent writing that was done and for making the book realistic.
And too, for not beating around the difficult subjects that life throws at you.
I really recommend this book. Whatever you are going through I believe this book will comfort you! I d I did me.
My thanks to Read with Audra/Netgalley for providing a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2021
"The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady" is Christian women's fiction. There were a number of view point characters, but we mainly followed the lives of Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran. They knit prayer shawls in a peaceful chapel, but it's being painted. The pastor challenged them to knit in a public place and bring God's influence into those spaces. Only, that's loud, messy, and involves getting personally involved with non-church people. It's a big change for all of them, but it ultimately brings healing to their lives as well as those they pray for while knitting.
The main characters were complex, likable people that reacted realistically to events. I could relate to their struggles even though they're not things I've personally dealt with. Even the knitting dragon lady (who likes being in control of everything) was likable since we know her thoughts and struggles behind her actions. God was very much at work in people's lives and in bringing about emotional and relational healing. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this enjoyable novel.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The main characters were complex, likable people that reacted realistically to events. I could relate to their struggles even though they're not things I've personally dealt with. Even the knitting dragon lady (who likes being in control of everything) was likable since we know her thoughts and struggles behind her actions. God was very much at work in people's lives and in bringing about emotional and relational healing. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this enjoyable novel.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
September 23, 2023
When I read the synopsis of this book, I knew I'd love it. First off, a self-important woman who is in charge of a prayer ministry? Come on. That's an oxymoron in itself.
I LOVE books where God strips characters of their security blankets (pun intended) and exposes their fears, their secret hopes, and the potential joy they'll have if they just release control.
These four women all have... well, all of those things. They're all holding tight to the way they think things should be, and this pastor is... well... a hoot in his almost Pollyannaish optimism.
Rich, prodding faith meets raw, real reality in this can't-put-it-down story showing how powerful prayer is in the lives of those who give and receive it.
But I want more. Much more. A book two? Please?
Note: This book does have an element of God "talking" to someone in ways that usually would make me uncomfortable. However, something about the way Mondragon does this made it work for me. Just adding that for the benefit of those who are uncomfortable with it as well.
I LOVE books where God strips characters of their security blankets (pun intended) and exposes their fears, their secret hopes, and the potential joy they'll have if they just release control.
These four women all have... well, all of those things. They're all holding tight to the way they think things should be, and this pastor is... well... a hoot in his almost Pollyannaish optimism.
Rich, prodding faith meets raw, real reality in this can't-put-it-down story showing how powerful prayer is in the lives of those who give and receive it.
But I want more. Much more. A book two? Please?
Note: This book does have an element of God "talking" to someone in ways that usually would make me uncomfortable. However, something about the way Mondragon does this made it work for me. Just adding that for the benefit of those who are uncomfortable with it as well.
September 13, 2022
What a charming and unique story. I just loved picturing this group of ladies braving the world and making a difference knitting in the mall. The whole story concept made me smile, and the way it develops really shines on how everyone can make a big change for the good, no matter what they are doing, if you do it for God. There were a few things along the way that I might have appreciated a bit more seeding in earlier, but overall I really enjoyed this debut novel.
September 21, 2021
This is a delightful novel for women, especially those who might be set in their ways. It is a well crafted story exploring what might happen when control is relinquished and God is allowed to move freely. Lives are changed, both those prayed for and those praying. Deep hurts are brought to light and hearts are healed.
The characters are well crafted too. There are young people in desperate need of prayerful love and direction. There are elderly women filled with love ready to burst out. There are a couple of dragon ladies too. Hard nosed, controlling. It is amazing to see what God can do when allowed to penetrate a controlling personality. Forced to get out of her comfort zone, Margaret declares, “Our ministry used to be such a neat and tidy operation, but now we never know what will happen next.” (3284/3424)
This is an entertaining novel but is also an encouraging one. Read it if you are ready to allow God freedom to work. And read even if you're not because you'll see what God can do. And if you are interested in a prayer shawl ministry, lots of information is included at the end of the book.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The characters are well crafted too. There are young people in desperate need of prayerful love and direction. There are elderly women filled with love ready to burst out. There are a couple of dragon ladies too. Hard nosed, controlling. It is amazing to see what God can do when allowed to penetrate a controlling personality. Forced to get out of her comfort zone, Margaret declares, “Our ministry used to be such a neat and tidy operation, but now we never know what will happen next.” (3284/3424)
This is an entertaining novel but is also an encouraging one. Read it if you are ready to allow God freedom to work. And read even if you're not because you'll see what God can do. And if you are interested in a prayer shawl ministry, lots of information is included at the end of the book.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 22, 2023
This book totally lived up to the hype I’ve seen. I listened to the audiobook in one sitting thanks to a long road trip. My only mistake was listening to it while not crocheting because that’s all I want to do now… (even though the women in the book knit rather than crochet) I am inspired to get cracking on my scarves for the homeless. Loved the book. It has moments of humor sprinkled into a touching story that moves the reader through a range of emotions.
April 26, 2025
This is a new author for me, and now I want to read everything that she has written. I really appreciated this women’s fiction story. It was full of heart, laughter and tears. For anyone who is curious about the audio version; I highly recommend it. I thought it was very well done.
May 3, 2023
There was such a big hype about this book that I think I had some high expectations. This is one of those "nice cup of tea and chocolate" books.
Some things that bothered me though were the fact that Margaret had God speaking to her. God speaks through His Word. People were using the prayer warriors as good-luck charms. The church was on the version of closing, not because there was an error of scripture but because there wasn't enough butts in the seats. So in order to keep the church to stay open, the pastor sends the prayer group out into the world to bring people into the church. But Christianity is so.much.more. Going to church doesn't save anyone. Call me a dragon lady, if you will.
Some things I did enjoy was watching Margaret wrestle with her bitterness and then seeing it through the eyes of someone else behaving similarly, as if she was seeing herself, truly, in a mirror. I enjoyed the banter between the ladies. The pastor's shirt descriptions made me chuckle. Again, it was like a cup of tea and some chocolate.
The narrator did a phenomenal job!
Now, if you will excuse me, I have a baby blanket to finish knitting.
Some things that bothered me though were the fact that Margaret had God speaking to her. God speaks through His Word. People were using the prayer warriors as good-luck charms. The church was on the version of closing, not because there was an error of scripture but because there wasn't enough butts in the seats. So in order to keep the church to stay open, the pastor sends the prayer group out into the world to bring people into the church. But Christianity is so.much.more. Going to church doesn't save anyone. Call me a dragon lady, if you will.
Some things I did enjoy was watching Margaret wrestle with her bitterness and then seeing it through the eyes of someone else behaving similarly, as if she was seeing herself, truly, in a mirror. I enjoyed the banter between the ladies. The pastor's shirt descriptions made me chuckle. Again, it was like a cup of tea and some chocolate.
The narrator did a phenomenal job!
Now, if you will excuse me, I have a baby blanket to finish knitting.
February 3, 2024
I really liked this one! It was both fun and deep. It had good character development. And it inspires one to go and do likewise.
January 17, 2024
The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady is Sharon J. Mondragón's debut novel. It reads like she is a seasoned novelist.
Wow. I have just finished this book, and I am emotional! I feel like I need a good cry, but in the best way (sort of, LOL). I am staggered by Margaret's personal growth. She got on my nerves for part of the story, but when you realize why, oh my heart.
I adored the ladies of the Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry. They were all so different but that is what made the group stronger. They knit in their church's prayer chapel until their pastor charged them to go out in the community to knit their prayer shawls while the chapel was being painted. Of course the group resisted, Margaret the loudest and most intense in her protests. None of them had any idea how their world would implode with this one decision.
This is such a heart-warming, at times heart-breaking story. This story is about friendship, faith, being obedient, and the power of prayer. I want a group like this! I want to feel the power of prayer like the ladies and the ones they prayed for did. Well done, Ms. Mondragón! I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Wow. I have just finished this book, and I am emotional! I feel like I need a good cry, but in the best way (sort of, LOL). I am staggered by Margaret's personal growth. She got on my nerves for part of the story, but when you realize why, oh my heart.
I adored the ladies of the Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry. They were all so different but that is what made the group stronger. They knit in their church's prayer chapel until their pastor charged them to go out in the community to knit their prayer shawls while the chapel was being painted. Of course the group resisted, Margaret the loudest and most intense in her protests. None of them had any idea how their world would implode with this one decision.
This is such a heart-warming, at times heart-breaking story. This story is about friendship, faith, being obedient, and the power of prayer. I want a group like this! I want to feel the power of prayer like the ladies and the ones they prayed for did. Well done, Ms. Mondragón! I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
October 3, 2021
I loved this book and devoured it pretty quickly. Sometimes a book just hits you at the right time and that was this book for me.
Four women make up the prayer shawl ministry at a local church and their pastor has set them out into the community to knit their shawls while the chapel is being repainted. Needless to say, Margaret is not pleased with this change. Margaret is something of a control freak and this upsets her strict routine and feels that knitting in public will not allow them to pray over these shawls for those that will eventually receive them. I think we all know a Margaret in our lives and sometimes change is good. The other ladies are more flexible and they don't let Margaret try and run roughshod over them and change the date or make it a more private location.
While Margaret is the driving force, the other ladies, Fran, Rose, and Jane, are a solid contribution to the group and the story. All four of these women have their own demons to battle and those play into the story and how it brings people to them and how they can all make a difference one person at a time.
I loved how these ladies end up at the mall doing their knitting and that while they may think that they do not bring attention to themselves, they really do and others are curious about what they are doing and why. What these ladies don't realize is that they did bring their ministry to the people and they were receptive to prayers and even being brought into the prayer shawl ministry circle. I was encouraged at how they were accepted by the number of prayer requests they received from employees at the mall and it reminds us that even a small change can bring bigger changes to our lives.
The story flows and while there are some "tense" moments between characters, it also shows us grace and mercy, that forgiveness is powerful, and that we all need someone in our lives to be in our corner and root for us whether we know it or not. There are some sparks of love, protectiveness of parents, and getting through to one Dragon Lady that life is too short to hold onto anger and fear and that feelings need to be shared now and not later when it is too late.
This is a feel-good book that will be enjoyed by many. And if you are a knitter, there is even a pattern at the end if you want to give it a whirl. I have to say, this book made me want to try my hand at knitting!
We give this book 5 paws up.
Four women make up the prayer shawl ministry at a local church and their pastor has set them out into the community to knit their shawls while the chapel is being repainted. Needless to say, Margaret is not pleased with this change. Margaret is something of a control freak and this upsets her strict routine and feels that knitting in public will not allow them to pray over these shawls for those that will eventually receive them. I think we all know a Margaret in our lives and sometimes change is good. The other ladies are more flexible and they don't let Margaret try and run roughshod over them and change the date or make it a more private location.
While Margaret is the driving force, the other ladies, Fran, Rose, and Jane, are a solid contribution to the group and the story. All four of these women have their own demons to battle and those play into the story and how it brings people to them and how they can all make a difference one person at a time.
I loved how these ladies end up at the mall doing their knitting and that while they may think that they do not bring attention to themselves, they really do and others are curious about what they are doing and why. What these ladies don't realize is that they did bring their ministry to the people and they were receptive to prayers and even being brought into the prayer shawl ministry circle. I was encouraged at how they were accepted by the number of prayer requests they received from employees at the mall and it reminds us that even a small change can bring bigger changes to our lives.
The story flows and while there are some "tense" moments between characters, it also shows us grace and mercy, that forgiveness is powerful, and that we all need someone in our lives to be in our corner and root for us whether we know it or not. There are some sparks of love, protectiveness of parents, and getting through to one Dragon Lady that life is too short to hold onto anger and fear and that feelings need to be shared now and not later when it is too late.
This is a feel-good book that will be enjoyed by many. And if you are a knitter, there is even a pattern at the end if you want to give it a whirl. I have to say, this book made me want to try my hand at knitting!
We give this book 5 paws up.
September 30, 2021
On the fateful Wednesday morning the final battle was engaged. "It's time somebody stood up up to Mrs. I-Run-Everything Benson before she runs the church right into oblivion!"
These first words, and the intriguing title, are just a sample of what's inside this gem of a book! Pastor Pete McIlhaney believes that a change needs to be made, and he's ready to challenge Margaret Benson and the ladies of Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry. What follows is a delightful story that will have you either laughing out loud, or wiping the tears from your eyes! It may also leave you searching your heart about your own Christian actions. Do we allow our desire for success to override our initial good intentions? Are we trying to control God's Plan, instead of letting God be the One in control?
Author Sharon J. Mondragón completely captures the friendship among this group of ladies, and she perfectly describes each of their strengths and weaknesses. Seeing their prayer lives deepen and their faith increase is a joy to read, and an inspiring message for all of us.
This is Mondragon's debut novel and I look forward to reading more of her efforts. Five stars for The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
These first words, and the intriguing title, are just a sample of what's inside this gem of a book! Pastor Pete McIlhaney believes that a change needs to be made, and he's ready to challenge Margaret Benson and the ladies of Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry. What follows is a delightful story that will have you either laughing out loud, or wiping the tears from your eyes! It may also leave you searching your heart about your own Christian actions. Do we allow our desire for success to override our initial good intentions? Are we trying to control God's Plan, instead of letting God be the One in control?
Author Sharon J. Mondragón completely captures the friendship among this group of ladies, and she perfectly describes each of their strengths and weaknesses. Seeing their prayer lives deepen and their faith increase is a joy to read, and an inspiring message for all of us.
This is Mondragon's debut novel and I look forward to reading more of her efforts. Five stars for The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
September 15, 2021
First, that title made me look twice. Second, I read the back cover blurb. After that, I just knew I had to read this story! It's one that drew me in very quickly & kept me turning pages.
I've never heard of a prayer shawl ministry before, so learning about it through the lives of Margaret, Jane, Rose and Fran was quite interesting. These four ladies are different in personality and how they approach life, but their heart for wanting to comfort those who are hurting bonds them together. God definitely used each one of them to touch the lives of those who would never step foot into a church & showed the love of Christ. When Father Pete kicked them out of the Prayer chapel to go knit in public places, that's where this story really begins! Not only did they touch the lives of strangers, God began to work in each one of their hearts to deal with some heavy things they've each tried to bury. Margaret was most like me, so I especially loved seeing her transformation! She's the groups' self-appointed leader who's also a bit of control freak. In spite of her supposed hard-heart, I learned of the reason behind it when the author penned her backstory. Each one of these ladies had a backstory that was emotional & just endeared me even more to them. Throughout the book I laughed, cried & felt like I made some friendships along the way myself. It has some definite spiritual truths that resonated in my own heart. I don't read women's fiction often, but this one was especially fun, adventurous, life-changing & emotional.
What a lovely debut novel, Sharon Mondragon is one to watch for!
*I received a complimentary copy from Kregel publishing through the Read with Audra blogger program. I was not obligated to leave a favorable review; all opinions expressed here are mine. *
I've never heard of a prayer shawl ministry before, so learning about it through the lives of Margaret, Jane, Rose and Fran was quite interesting. These four ladies are different in personality and how they approach life, but their heart for wanting to comfort those who are hurting bonds them together. God definitely used each one of them to touch the lives of those who would never step foot into a church & showed the love of Christ. When Father Pete kicked them out of the Prayer chapel to go knit in public places, that's where this story really begins! Not only did they touch the lives of strangers, God began to work in each one of their hearts to deal with some heavy things they've each tried to bury. Margaret was most like me, so I especially loved seeing her transformation! She's the groups' self-appointed leader who's also a bit of control freak. In spite of her supposed hard-heart, I learned of the reason behind it when the author penned her backstory. Each one of these ladies had a backstory that was emotional & just endeared me even more to them. Throughout the book I laughed, cried & felt like I made some friendships along the way myself. It has some definite spiritual truths that resonated in my own heart. I don't read women's fiction often, but this one was especially fun, adventurous, life-changing & emotional.
What a lovely debut novel, Sharon Mondragon is one to watch for!
*I received a complimentary copy from Kregel publishing through the Read with Audra blogger program. I was not obligated to leave a favorable review; all opinions expressed here are mine. *
April 25, 2022
I believe this is a debut novel, but you would never know it. Excellent writing and a very touching story.
July 28, 2022
An uplifting and inspiring story! I love books about groups of ordinary women who do extraordinary things, equipped by the power of God.
January 8, 2023
A terrific inspirational fictional story of four women who become helpful to others’ lives through a simple knitting club and God working powerfully as they pray. Based on the prayer shawl ministries around the country.
May 18, 2024
A cosy, heart warming book about the power of knitting and the power of prayer, particularly prayer that may not be answered as we wish it to be.
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April 19, 2022A very cute story with lots of humor. An easy read and lots of fun.
April 21, 2023
It’s been a minute since I’ve stayed up past common sense to finish a book but wow did this one make me want to… and to whip out my knitting needles too
January 18, 2024
I thought this was a very comfortable enjoyable book. Family relationships were an important part of the book. A women’s church knitting group are forced to find someplace other than the church for their weekly knitting meeting. They knit prayer shawls that are given to people with some kind of need for comfort. When they settle at a spot in the mall, they create curiosity and eventually friendships. Made me want to take up knitting.
January 7, 2024
This book was comforting and funny.
September 26, 2025
Loved this! Definitely giving me Mitford vibes 🤩 I will be reading more from this author!
October 4, 2021
Out of your comfort zone and into the mall!
Thanks #NetGalley @KregelBooks and the I Read With Audra Blog Tour for a complimentary eARC of #TheUnlikelyYarnOfTheDragonLady upon my request. All opinions are my own.
The Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry consists of four women (Controlling Margaret, Positive Rose, Hurting Jane, and Lonely Fran) who meet weekly in the lovely and quiet Prayer Chapel of their church to knit shawls for the prayer shawls ministry. When the pastor announces that the prayer chapel is being painted and they will need to find another place to sit and knit, he suggests they knit out in public somewhere like the local mall. Grumpy and difficult-to-love Margaret vehemently resists the idea of knitting in the mall with all its distractions. However, the others are open to the idea. After they get kicked out of the bookstore cafe (for never ordering anything), they find a satisfactory place to knit using the comfortable seating display in front of Macy’s department store. And, yes, there are distractions and encounters with the people they meet taking them out of their comfort zones in many ways.
The power of friendship and prayer.
Do you love discovering a personal connection in the books you read? I grew up in a small church community and it is easy for me to relate to these women, their mission, and their hearts. I can name a person I know that is like each one of these characters! I can relate to the idea of moving your ministry from the safe walls of the church out into the world to be the light. I can relate to the power of friendship and prayer. Although I haven’t knitted prayer shawls, I can relate to this story because I do know how to knit and I’m a PK (preacher’s kid) and grew up in the church and have participated in other ministries. My aunt has met for years with a quilting group at her Lutheran church that makes quilts for those in need.
I adore older, mature characters. I think many readers will find a way to connect with one of the four. Each character is well developed and has a unique voice. It becomes obvious as they interact with the situations and people they encounter that they had never opened up to each other. A beautiful part of this story is the way they grow to support and understand each other.
The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady is engaging, humorous in places, and poignant.
Even if you don’t embrace a Christian worldview, there are universal themes to appreciate including friendship, grief, loneliness, risk-taking, power of prayer, connection, compassion, forgiveness, and concern for struggling adult children.
The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady is definitely an “up-lit” story from a Christian perspective with a strong Christian message. It’s a well-told and engaging story that I’m recommending for readers who might relate to the content and themes.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Thanks #NetGalley @KregelBooks and the I Read With Audra Blog Tour for a complimentary eARC of #TheUnlikelyYarnOfTheDragonLady upon my request. All opinions are my own.
The Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry consists of four women (Controlling Margaret, Positive Rose, Hurting Jane, and Lonely Fran) who meet weekly in the lovely and quiet Prayer Chapel of their church to knit shawls for the prayer shawls ministry. When the pastor announces that the prayer chapel is being painted and they will need to find another place to sit and knit, he suggests they knit out in public somewhere like the local mall. Grumpy and difficult-to-love Margaret vehemently resists the idea of knitting in the mall with all its distractions. However, the others are open to the idea. After they get kicked out of the bookstore cafe (for never ordering anything), they find a satisfactory place to knit using the comfortable seating display in front of Macy’s department store. And, yes, there are distractions and encounters with the people they meet taking them out of their comfort zones in many ways.
The power of friendship and prayer.
Do you love discovering a personal connection in the books you read? I grew up in a small church community and it is easy for me to relate to these women, their mission, and their hearts. I can name a person I know that is like each one of these characters! I can relate to the idea of moving your ministry from the safe walls of the church out into the world to be the light. I can relate to the power of friendship and prayer. Although I haven’t knitted prayer shawls, I can relate to this story because I do know how to knit and I’m a PK (preacher’s kid) and grew up in the church and have participated in other ministries. My aunt has met for years with a quilting group at her Lutheran church that makes quilts for those in need.
I adore older, mature characters. I think many readers will find a way to connect with one of the four. Each character is well developed and has a unique voice. It becomes obvious as they interact with the situations and people they encounter that they had never opened up to each other. A beautiful part of this story is the way they grow to support and understand each other.
The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady is engaging, humorous in places, and poignant.
Even if you don’t embrace a Christian worldview, there are universal themes to appreciate including friendship, grief, loneliness, risk-taking, power of prayer, connection, compassion, forgiveness, and concern for struggling adult children.
The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady is definitely an “up-lit” story from a Christian perspective with a strong Christian message. It’s a well-told and engaging story that I’m recommending for readers who might relate to the content and themes.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
August 18, 2021
The Unlikely Yarn Of The Dragon Lady by Sharon J Mondragon is a most charming and beautiful contemporary Christian novel. The love of God is infused throughout the whole book. His love extends beyond the pages to encompass the reader.
The building is not the church. The church is the people. The disciples were commissioned by Jesus to go into all the world and to tell others about Him. We were never meant to lock ourselves away in a building and keep the Good News to ourselves. “To reach others for God, we need to take the church out into everyday life.” People need to see and experience the love, the hope and the care of God.
Too often people stumble in the darkness. They do not realise their need for Jesus. People need us to show Jesus to them by the way we live, what we do and how we love. “They don’t know they can find peace and love and hope here.”
The main characters have a prayer shawl ministry. They knit together, weaving their prayers into the shawls as they knit. Age is no barrier to this ministry. “I may not be able to live alone now… but I can pray. I can pray and knit those prayers into a shawl.”
As the ladies knit outside the confines of a church building, the lost and the lonely are drawn to the peace and love of Christ that surrounds them.
Jesus went to the people. Jesus wants us to go to the people.
Regrets, hurt and pain make people prickly. We need to see beyond the hurt as to why the behaviour is as it is. We need to help to minister to the root problem.
Guilt weighs heavy. “Dragging her guilt behind her like a ball and chain.” We need to lay our guilt down at the foot of the cross and exchange it for forgiveness.
The characters are all wonderfully drawn. They are an eclectic mix such as one would meet in life. Therefore they are easy to relate to.
I adored The Unlikely Yarn Of The Dragon Lady. It was such a beautiful read. I cannot wait to read more from Sharon J Mondragon.
I received a free copy from a publicist via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The building is not the church. The church is the people. The disciples were commissioned by Jesus to go into all the world and to tell others about Him. We were never meant to lock ourselves away in a building and keep the Good News to ourselves. “To reach others for God, we need to take the church out into everyday life.” People need to see and experience the love, the hope and the care of God.
Too often people stumble in the darkness. They do not realise their need for Jesus. People need us to show Jesus to them by the way we live, what we do and how we love. “They don’t know they can find peace and love and hope here.”
The main characters have a prayer shawl ministry. They knit together, weaving their prayers into the shawls as they knit. Age is no barrier to this ministry. “I may not be able to live alone now… but I can pray. I can pray and knit those prayers into a shawl.”
As the ladies knit outside the confines of a church building, the lost and the lonely are drawn to the peace and love of Christ that surrounds them.
Jesus went to the people. Jesus wants us to go to the people.
Regrets, hurt and pain make people prickly. We need to see beyond the hurt as to why the behaviour is as it is. We need to help to minister to the root problem.
Guilt weighs heavy. “Dragging her guilt behind her like a ball and chain.” We need to lay our guilt down at the foot of the cross and exchange it for forgiveness.
The characters are all wonderfully drawn. They are an eclectic mix such as one would meet in life. Therefore they are easy to relate to.
I adored The Unlikely Yarn Of The Dragon Lady. It was such a beautiful read. I cannot wait to read more from Sharon J Mondragon.
I received a free copy from a publicist via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
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