Sarah Wheaton is the kind of person who never speaks ill of anyone. She is a devoted and loyal friend, as well as a loving daughter to Pastor John Wheaton, embodying kindness, and compassion. Beneath her cheerful exterior, however, lies a deep emotional wound that will never fully heal. Through time and prayer, she has learned to navigate her pain. Her friends and family are always her priority, and she chooses to keep her struggles hidden from them.
As Sarah's character developed, I imagined her with the face of an angel. Hence the picture shows her looking out at the ocean, because I could not find a face that matched what was in my head. I envisioned her with flowing blond hair, deep blue eyes and two prominent dimples like her father's. More importantly, a heart as fierce and determined as Esther's. Born and raised in the fictional town of Homestead, Nebraska, Sarah adds a unique depth to the Torn Robes Series.
During her stay in Gilford, she becomes best friends with Sharise Taylor. Their friendship is strong and enduring, much like the bond between sisters. Sarah also attracts the attention of Gilford High's quarterback, Joshua Gallo, who happens to be the twin brother of Brittany Gallo, a character we met earlier. The following excerpt describes the moment Sarah and Joshua first see each other. Both Sharise and Sarah are helping Pastor John set up the classroom for his course, "God and Faith." Sarah went downstairs to meet Sharise and bring her up to the classroom on the third floor.
Sarah and Sharise sprinted toward the school doors. Sharise held the door open for Sarah who grabbed the door quickly, but not without taking a quick glance behind her. For the briefest of moments, she locked eyes with one of the football players exiting the gym.
“Come on, before they realize we’ve left the area.” Sharise urged pulling Sarah from her powerful encounter.
Sarah is strong and very protective of her father. She loves telling stories, especially Bible stories, is musically inclined like her mother and adds logic to conversations with wisdom beyond her years. The following excerpt illustrates the strong character of Sarah Wheaton. It takes place in the living room of the Taylor home and captures a pivotal moment as Pastor John grapples with a crisis at school. His students want to show their support and let the people of Gilford know how much he means to them. However, Pastor John is reluctant to involve the students. In this critical moment, Sarah speaks up.
“I believe we were all meant to be right here.” Sarah said, looking around the room. “Right now. At this exact moment. Dad, your students are going to be at that meeting tomorrow night. Nothing is going to stop them. Their words and actions will define their character in front of parents, teachers, and peers. Will they leave the meeting trusting in God or harden themselves against Him?”
John got up from his seat then went to his daughter and wrapped his arms around her. He said in a choked whisper, “Your mother would be very proud of the wise young lady you’ve become. As proud as I am at this very moment.”
Dwayne passed the tissues to Tracie and Louise, even Scott was affected.
Always listen to Sarah, Sharise made a mental note.
Sarah's character embodies the ideal person I wish I had been in my youth and beyond. She is also a blend of the qualities I admire in my dear friends and family members. Sarah represents the conscience that guides us all and the standard we strive to achieve.
So, what does happen between Sarah Wheaton and Joshua Gallo? Does he pursue her? How does Pastor John react to their growing connection? More importantly, what are Sarah's true feelings about the highly popular football star? Here is a teaser to spark your curiosity.
“I had a great time tonight. I’m glad I came.” Joshua finally got to speak with Sarah alone.
“It was a lot of fun, I’m glad you came, too,” Sarah said returning his smile. Thinking it was a long shot Sarah asked anyway. “Would you like to come to service Sunday? There’s great music. Everyone is so nice, and my dad will be preaching.”
“I don’t know Sarah, church has never been my thing.” Adding quickly not wanting to miss his chance, “But maybe we could go out for a movie sometime?”
Sarah’s heart did a deep dive into the pit of her stomach. Her face glowed a slight tinge of red, she should’ve known better. Sarah swallowed hard. “Joshua, I like you. I do. But church is my thing, you can’t have one without the other. So, friends?” Sarah extended her hand in friendship, but that was as far as the relationship could go.
Joshua’s eyes traveled from Sarah’s extended hand into her beguiling blue eyes. Ignoring her hand, he asked, “What time on Sunday?”