In The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love, author Beth Pattillo combines her love of knitting with her love for books, creating a sweet story with an endearing ensemble cast of characters. As the members of the Sweetgum Knit Lit Society meet and discuss true love as evidenced in “Great Love Stories in Literature”, each woman struggles with her own love story.
Once a month, the six women of the Sweetgum Knit Lit Society gather to discuss books and share their knitting projects. Inspired by her recently-wedded bliss, group leader Eugenie chooses “Great Love Stories in Literature” as the theme for the year’s reading list–a risky selection for a group whose members span the spectrum of age and relationship status.
As the Knit Lit ladies read and discus classic romances like Romeo and Juliet, Wuthering Heights, and Pride and Prejudice, each member is confronted with her own perception about love. Camille’s unexpected reunion with an old crush forces her to confront conflicting desires. Newly widowed Esther finds her role in Sweetgum changing and is surprised by two unlikely friends. Hannah isn’t sure she’s ready for the trials of first love. Newcomer Maria finds her life turned upside-down by increasing family obligations and a handsome, arrogant lawyer, and Eugenie and Merry are both asked to make sacrifices for their husbands that challenge their principles.
Even in a sleepy, southern town like Sweetgum, Tennesee, love isn’t easy. The Knit Lit ladies learn they can find strength and guidance in the novels they read, the love of their family, their community–and especially in each other.
I read this book while on vacation and it proved to be a great vacation novel: light, fun, and charming. Whether you’re on vacation or not, I think you’ll find The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love to be a delightful and enjoyable read.
Wife and mother, Bible teacher and blogger, Lisa loves Jesus, coffee, dark chocolate and, of course, books. Read more of her reflections at Lisa writes….
Now if only I could knit and read at the same time!