Becoming Bea (The Courtships of Lancaster County)

Ben and Bea have had a rivalry ever since their first spelling bee. Those spelling words were creatively sprinkled about the book reminding us of their rivalry and love or words! And maybe affection for each other? Bea has always been more comfortable around book and words than people. Growing up in the shadow of her bossy sister, she is shy and wishing to make decisions for herself. When her family decided to take a vacation to Montana, Bea decided to get a job so she could stay in Lancaster County. This is Bea's coming of age story.

Helping take care of the tropplis (triplets) may take her out of her comfort zone and be harder work than she ever imagined, but it also turns out to be the most rewarding work, giving her dreams she never knew she would have. My appreciation for mothers, all caregivers, disposable diapers, and being able to sleep all night grew immensely as I read about everything Bea had to do!

As she makes friends and becomes closer to her community, she also grows closer to Ben Rupp! But of course, things can't be that simple! You see, Ben Rupp already hurt her once, and there's Don who can't seem to take no for an answer. As everything spirals out of control, Bea must learn to trust God to make everything turn out for the best. I smiled, laughed, became outraged at the injustices, and almost cried right along with the characters!

I loved watching Bea grow in faith and character, and watching her relationship with Ben. I enjoyed meeting everyone else, and though I haven't read the first three books in this series, I definitely want to now!