25 Book Reviews

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

A Story of Hope and Faith

              "The Wish"
          By Beverly Lewis

Synopsis:

A Compelling Story of Friendship from the Top Author in Amish Fiction
Leona Speicher got the "sister" she'd always dreamed of the day Gloria Gingerich and her family moved to Lancaster County Amish farmland. The Arkansas newcomers seem to be everything a devout Plain family should be, and Leona can't help comparing Gloria's engaging young parents to her own.

Leona's cousin shows a romantic interest in Gloria around the same time as Gloria's older brother expresses his fondness for Leona--it seems likely the two young women will marry into each other's families, remaining close friends for life. Thus, Leona is shocked when the Gingeriches suddenly pack up and disappear after being expelled from the church for reasons no one will discuss. Despite Leona's pleas, Gloria goes with them, leaving more than one broken heart behind.

When Gloria unexpectedly contacts Leona after a silence of several years, Leona makes up her mind to persuade her friend to return to Lancaster County and the Amish ways. Leona's fiancé, the deacon's son, is alarmed when Leona decides to go after Gloria. Will Leona's dearest wish lead to her own undoing?

My Thoughts:

This book is written in typical Beverly Lewis'  style giving us a great book in the Amish fiction genre. She takes us right into the world of the Amish faith, immerses us in their very different culture, giving us glimpses of their world as it really is... full of challenges, just like those experienced by you and I. It is how they are dealt with, that makes their lives appear so unlike the "world". 

This is a story of forgiveness and inspiration. Two women, the main characters, have a valuable friendship which neither wants to forget, even though life situations cause their belief in each other to fumble at times. They have to take the time to examine and attempt to show the forgiveness that Christ has portrayed for each of us. This a lesson that we all need to remember. I easily identified with these women, making this book a super read. Their problems and challenges quickly engaged me in the story, pulling me into the Amish community. 

The plot moves at a steady pace with just enough twists and turns to keep the reader on the edge of her seat. I found myself reluctant to deal with everyday tasks as I became more immersed in the tale as it progressed. I could not put this book down. Surprising twists and turns appeared at unexpected times, just when you think life is settling down. 

I rate this a five star book. It is a story that we can all take and apply to our lives. We all need to learn to forgive and trust!!

This Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group, Bethany House and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and is now available at your local booksellers.

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