A Simply Enchanted Life

The Longing by Beverly Lewis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


"The Longing" is the final installment in "The Courtship of Nellie Fisher" series and I absolutely cannot wait to read more from Beverly Lewis!



In this book we see more of the struggle of a community as it comes to terms with conflicts of faith and church division. The community is also devastated to hear about a near fatal injury of one of their own. Much of this book explores how God can use any situation to open our eyes and our hearts to Him, and also to our friends and family that we may need to make amends with.



We see Rhoda's struggle with her self-worth, her longing for love and acceptance, her disappointment in herself at turning her back on her family as well as her struggle with finding herself yet still keeping her family and her values. Her desire is to simply be loved while still loving and being true to herself.



The book also continues to explore romances for Nan and Nellie Mae and continues delving deep into the heartache and loss that has settled over Rosanna and her husband, Elias. One thing is for certain - through happiness, love or loss we see one important message shining through - the importance of prayer and putting our trust in the Lord, not only for our salvation but also for all the trials that may come our way.



I really enjoyed this book series and learned more about the differences between the Mennonite, Old Order Amish and New Order Amish. I suggest it to any fan of Christian, Historical and Amish fiction.



To read my review of The Parting click here

To read my review of The Forbidden click here



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The Forbidden by Beverly Lewis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



"The Forbidden" is the second book in The Courtship of Nellie Fisher
series and I'm quickly becoming a Beverly Lewis fan. As you know, if you've read my review of "The Parting", this is my first series that I have read by Lewis and it has been a joy.

"The Forbidden" continues to explore the romance between Nellie and her beau, Caleb. His father has completely forbidden any contact with the Fisher family due to their recent turn from the Old Order Church and embracing salvation. Nellie is torn between her family, her heart and the love of her life. I won't say which she
chooses, as to not ruin the story for those that haven't yet read it, but I was happy with her decision.

I have to say, I simply couldn't put this book down. Not for the main character, but for her friend Rosanna's character. Rosanna feels like a real person and my heart broke for her and her husband at the trials that they are facing. I absolutely can't wait to pick up book three to find out how their story ends.

If you're looking for a more realistic view of the Amish views and their faith then I strongly suggest this book series. Though it is set in the 1960s it does give a really good look at what they believe as well as their lifestyle.

A fantastic read. I look forward to the next installment!



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The Parting by Beverly Lewis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is the first book I have read by Beverly Lewis. I will definitely be checking out the rest of this series as well as the rest of her books. The main character of this story is Nellie Fisher, a young Amish woman who has just lost her sister in a tragic drowning. Her parents are understandably heartbroken and also distraught at the idea that their child has possibly died without hope of salvation. At first I was slightly confused by the plot until I realized that not only is this book Amish fiction, it is also historical. Amish and Mennonite fiction outlines the conflicts of faith in regards to keeping the 'Old Ways' and embracing all that the Holy Bible teaches - a powerful message of forgiveness, healing and salvation. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.



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