MY REVIEW:
During the years I have reviewed Christian fiction I have read a good number of books about the Amish. Suzanne Woods Fisher has always been one of my favorite authors of this genre because her books seem to focus more on the individuals than on the rules and regulations of the Amish life. “The Calling”, second book in The Inn at Eagle Hill series, more than met my expectations.
“The Calling” takes up its story shortly after the ending of “The Letters” and focuses primarily on Bethany whose discouragement over her life leaves her feeling restless and out of place in Stoney Ridge. Cleaning the Sisters House is not how she wants to spend her life and although Jimmy Fisher is both attractive and attentive, Bethany is not sure she can trust him. Because of her involvement in a special project with the sisters, a friendship with the new guest at Eagle Hill, and a growing friendship with Jimmy, Bethany finds herself with new interests in her life and a major change in her attitude.
“The Calling” is so much more than the usual Amish romance. With drama, humor, and plenty of secrets that are unearthed, it is a narrative of Bethany’s life as she matures from a judgmental “me-first” person to a compassionate and understanding young woman. Characters are well-rounded and the plot is excellent but to me the number one positive aspect of the story is that it caused me to question my own priorities and to consider ways that I can be of service in my own community. I sincerely hope that I don’t lose sight of that.
I enthusiastically recommend “The Calling” even if you are not usually a fan of Amish fiction. The entire series is well worth your time.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Book Two in the Inn at Eagle Hill series.
Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher delivers her trademark twists, turns, and tender romance in this delightful and exciting visit to the deceptively quiet community of Stoney Ridge.
Twenty-year-old Bethany Schrock is restless. Her love life has derailed, her faith hangs by a thread, and she is spending the incredibly hot summer days wading through a lifetime’s accumulation of junk at the home of five ancient Amish sisters. About the only thing that holds her interest is the spirited and dangerously handsome Jimmy Fisher–and he seems bent on irritating her to no end.
When the sly old sisters and a guest at the Inn get Bethany involved in running the local soup kitchen and starting a community garden, she suddenly finds herself wondering, Shootfire! How did that happen? Despite her newfound purposefulness, a gnawing emptiness about a childhood mystery continues to plague her. Encouraged by Jimmy Fisher, she will seek out the answers she craves–and uncover a shocking secret that will break her heart, heal it, and point her to love.
Learn more at Suzanne’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of the Inn at Eagle Hill series, Lancaster County Secrets series, and the Stoney Ridge Seasons series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including “Amish Peace.” She is also the coauthor of a new Amish children’s series, The Adventures of Lily Lapp. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne is a Carol Award winner and a Christy Award finalist. She is a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. For more information, please visit suzannewoodsfisher.com and connect with her on Twitter @suzannewfisher. Get Amish proverbs delivered right to your mobile device! Download the Free App! http://bit.ly/10Tygyi
THE CALLING | Six Chances to win an iPad, Kindle, or Nook from Suzanne Woods Fisher!
Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher is celebrating her newest book, The Calling, by giving away TWO iPads, TWO Kindles, and TWO Nooks!
Two grand prize winners will receive:
- An iPad
- The Letters and The Calling by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Four second place winners will receive:
- A Kindle Fire HDX or a Nook HD—winner’s choice!
- The Letters and The Calling by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 8th. All winners will be announced February 10th at Suzanne’s blog.
Hi Pamela! I loved, loved, loved your review of “The Calling!” In fact…if it’s OK with you, I’d love to use it in some promotion. I loved it that much! So grateful that you read it for the deeper layers in it. Thank you for reading my book and for sharing it with your readers. Warmly, Suzanne
You are welcome to use it. Glad you liked it that much!