The Mockingbird's Song by Wanda E. Brunstetter is the 2nd Amish Greenhouse Mystery. It can be read on its own for those who have not read The Crow's Call. I thought the story was well-written with developed characters. Sylvia Beiler misses her husband. She is depressed and angry at God. She worries about her children and does not like to be separated from them for any length of time. Henry is also angry and rebellious. When he is not busy with chores, Henry likes to read magazines and books on birds. Amy Beiler is planning her wedding to Jared next fall. She cannot wait to become a wife. Belinda Beiler misses her husband whom she loved dearly. Instead of dealing with her feelings, she keeps herself busy with work, her grandchildren, and worrying about her family. The Mockingbird's Song is a story about dealing with overwhelming grief, the various threats to the family and their livelihood, birdwatching, hope, and love. Sylvia and Henry have lost faith in God. They do not understand why He did not save their family members. The mystery is not the focus of the book. It is something that is happening, but it is not investigated. The threats are escalating making the situation dangerous. Virginia Martin and her husband, Earl live across from the King family. Virginia dislikes living in the country and especially from the noisy and smelly greenhouse (her words). She spends most of her day watching her neighbors (reminds me of my Grandma Anderson). Loneliness and the actions of the woman's first husband have shaped Virginia. I am curious to see how Virginia's story will turn out. The Mockingbird's Song is an inspiring story of faith, family, friendship, healing, and love. I am curious to find out what happens next with the King family and their greenhouse.
Sylvia has been nearly paralyzed with grief and anxiety since the tragic death of her husband, father, and brother in a traffic accident. She tries to help in the family's greenhouse while caring for her two young children, but she prefers not to have to deal with customers. Her mother's own grief causes her to hover over her children and grandchildren, and Sylvia seeks a diversion. She takes up birdwatching and soon meets an Amish man who teaches her about local birds. But Sylvia's mother doesn't trust Dennis Weaver, and as the relationship sours, mysterious attacks on the greenhouse start up again.
