I’m delighted to share the Fingerprints in Frost anthology from Wild Blue Wonder Press. I’ve loved each of the seasonal anthologies so far (see my reviews for Springtime in Surrey and Novelists in November), and this one proved to be no different. Some of the stories deal with hard things, perhaps even more so than in the other anthologies. But every issue is handled with grace and is designed to point readers to the Lord.
About Fingerprints in Frost
Fingerprints in Frost is a Christian short story collection featuring nine cozy stories of seeking God in the messy joys of homemaking and family. This anthology contains touching stories from contemporary and historical fiction authors with a mix of different subgenres—all written to the glory of God!
My Overview of Each Book
Each author obviously put a lot of work into creating the stories in this anthology. I loved reading the entire collection and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy, family-centered, God-glorifying read.
Here’s my take on each specific story in the collection:
‘Til Spring’s Coming by Jessica B. Brown
A sweet story of an immigrant woman who must learn to allow others to hep her. The descriptions in this story were lovely, and the wintery feeling and isolation of Ida came alive on the pages.
Like Honey of Bees by Bethany Willcock
I love Bethany’s writing style and the mysterious elements she weaves in her work. And the fact that this story ties in with her contribution to the Novelists in November anthology was a bonus! Autumn and her family are a delight, and the fresh set of circumstances had me turning pages quickly to discover what would happen next.
Keepsakes by Kellyn Roth
This was perhaps my favorite story of the entire collection. There was something infinitely sweet in the family situation of a mother trying to create a happy Christmas and a little boy who wished he could remember his father. A tender story that definitely made me want to know more about the characters.
Back to the Trees by Amberly Kristen Clowe
The problems of too much busyness and lack of communication between spouses are all too common in today’s culture. All the strife between Paul and Polly and the chaos of their busy schedules was a bit stressful for me, but I did like this story’s arc and the peace at the end.
Winter’s Returning by Hosanna Emily & Chloe Field
This story, perhaps, was the one I struggled the most to connect with. Maybe it was because I’m not much of a contemporary reader. Anyhow, I did appreciate the family’s growth throughout the story and the theme of grace.
Embracing Joy by Heather Flynn
Infertility is a difficult issue to discuss, but Heather handles it with grace in this story. The hardship is shown, but the focus is pointed to the one who teaches us “in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” (Phil. 4:11)
A Brystel Family Christmas by Elyse Cotton
This story was so cozy and featured a close-knit family trying to create a feeling of Christmas despite their lack of money. Seeing the close sibling relationships and the little sacrifices of the older children made this a truly sweet story.
His Everyday Fingerprints by Erika Mathews
This story portrayed the highs and lows of motherhood with such a touch of reality. Problems weren’t glossed over, but joy shone through as the story progressed. I loved all the little mentions of fingerprints and thought the picture a such a clear lesson. Anyone who has been around children very long knows fingerprints will soon cover every surface within reach–especially if it’s a glass front door (speaking from experience). What a lovely idea to see all the little fingerprints as a reminder to look to the Lord and seek to see His fingerprints even in the chaos of life.
My Roots Shall Run Down by Katja H. Labonté
I loved seeing Myriam again from Novelists in November and enjoyed this newest adventure of hers. Katja wrote each of the children onto the pages with such a true voice to their ages, so I applaud her greatly (Far too many books make younger children sound too grown-up or older children sound childish, in my opinion). This story was a delight and brought the wintery English countryside to life. Definitely a good story!
Make sure you grab a copy for yourself! Fingerprints in Frost is a collection you won’t want to miss if you like short stories and want to enjoy a homey, family feel.
Before you go . . .
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