Patricia grows up admiring a boy at her school, John Worth. He is kind and patient and serious. She meets his family and realizes that he comes from a devoutly Christian home and that is the source of his goodness and strength. She begins to search for God as well, and studies the Bible.
Patricia's mother only cares about social engagements with rich people, and tries to encourage Patricia into a courtship with their neighbor Thorny, a wealthy socialite with a drunken temper. Patricia prays that God will help her to find her path in life between what she truly values and what her mother pressures her to do.

This is my favorite of this author's books. The story has real depth to it as Patricia strives to make something of her life. I love the sweet romance between Patricia and John. They have so few moments together, but those times are full of meaning and mutual admiration and respect.

Patricia is an adorable character. She craves a simple and peaceful life, but her mother has other plans, so Patricia must learn to be patient and long-suffering.
John Worth is an absolutely wonderful hero! He's protective and generous and kind to everyone. I love how he is described as having lights in his eyes that light up when he is happy. That light of the Holy Spirit inside him just spills out, shining on everyone he meets.