Review ~ The Secret Keeper by Beverly Lewis

With her love for all things old-fashioned, Jennifer Burns has often been told she's an "old soul," but no one is prepared for the young woman's decision to set aside her modern life in favor of the Old Order Amish world. Yet Jenny does exactly that, adopting Plain dress and settling in with Samuel and Rebecca Lapp while she works as a mother's helper for the bishop's wife--a far cry from her former job as an x-ray technician.

The people of Hickory Hollow are curious about the beautiful young seeker among them, one handsome Amishman in particular. But he is not the only man vying for Jenny's affections, and Jenny faces many challenges in the Proving time the brethren have set for her...challenges of the heart, as well as the spirit.

Will Jenny's secrets keep her from the peace she longs for? Or will they lead the way home?

Please keep in mind I am a conservative reviewer who doesn't like spoilers!

My Review

 ~5 stars~ 

*****

This is a wunderbar gut book! Beverly Lewis writes with amazing detail and clarity, drawing the reader into the lives of her characters as if they are real people; our friends, family, loved ones. 

When I requested this book for review, I didn't realize it was the fourth book in the Home to Hickory Hollow series, so going back there was a treat for me. I enjoyed the glimpse into what’s been happening the last few years since Katie’s shunning.

I think this book brings a good comparison to those who think they want to become Amish and those who want to leave the community. Jenny wants to convert to the Amish lifestyle, something she has dreamed of for years. Staying with the Lapp’s is an experience beyond what she imagined. Secrets abound and she is drawn into a big one. I believe she put the Amish on a pedestal, thinking they could do no wrong, or live such morally upright lives that they don’t have faults, but she is sadly disillusioned. It will be interesting to see what happens next.

Then there are those who attend the Bible study at Katie and Daniel’s, seeking to claim publicly their faith in Christ and risk being censured or shunned. One of the best parts of these books is the faith element. Many would say Old Order Amish are Christians but adhering to rules and regulations in a church doesn't make one so, no matter what denomination you belong to. It’s the heart that matters and only the Lord knows one’s heart. Although, I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to live in a community that doesn't allow you to express your assurance in salvation through faith in Christ alone, when the Bible so clearly teaches it.

As always, this was a page turner for me. Any fan of Amish fiction will enjoy this story. It’s a keeper J

I appreciate Bethany House providing me a copy for review purposes. No monetary compensation has been received, only my honest opinion of the book. 

Purchase link: 
Bethany House