A Song of Joy, by Lauraine Snelling

Nilda Carlson is finding a new life away from the family farm. She is now working for Gertrude Schoenleber as her executive assistant. As such she is learning much about business and philanthropy. She and Mrs. Schoenleber are working out ways to help immigrants gain a foothold in their new country and new community. Their efforts to provide housing and jobs is something that is bringing satisfaction to both women.

But Nilda has other things that are going to bring her new joys and some angst. She has a suitor, one of the nephews of Mrs. Schoenleber. But this nephew is a wealthy socialite who has very little desire to work. Instead he wants everything done for him. He is drawn to Nilda, but he doesn't understand her a bit. She is a hard worker and not interested in living a life of leisure.

The story unfolds as Nilda learns and grows under the teaching of Mrs. Schoenleber and as she develops a strong work ethic and many benevolent concerns. She also does haver an interest in one of Mrs. Schoenleber's nephews, just not the one that is interested in her.

Throughout the story we see the Hand of God working to direct the steps of Nilda and all those associated with her. We see the faithfulness of God to those who love Him and strive to serve Him. We see the glory of God fulfilling the dreams and desires of those who seek after His heart.

I only gave the story 4 stars because I felt the beginning dragged a bit. But the last fourth of the book moved very quickly and made up for what seemed to be dragging earlier.

I enjoy all of Ms. Snelling's writings and enjoy reading about the lives of early immigrants from Norway.

Enjoy!