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Big Sky #2
Along Wooded Paths
All she wanted was a simple Amish life . . . But now Marianna Sommer finds herself depending on Englisch neighbors. Although proud of living apart from the world, she and her newly relocated Amish family have discovered that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together.
As Marianna begins helping those different from herself—and receiving their help—her heart contemplates two directions. She’s torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a closer walk with God than she’s ever seen before.
Who should have young Marianna’s heart? What is God asking her to sacrifice? Her traditions? Her community? The answer is found along the wooded paths.
Acclaim for Tricia Goyer’s Big Sky Series
“A wonderful story about the Amish and the way they live their lives by the writings of the Bible. Readers will delight in this.”
RT Book Reviews
“A sweet, tender tale that’s sure to please readers. Amish fiction fans will be wanting more from Ms. Goyer!”
AmishHearts.com
“A captivating story . . . the reader can’t wait to turn the page.”
Suzanne Woods Fisher , best-selling author, Lancaster County Series
"A sweet, tender story about God's gentle workings in the hearts of His own. Tricia Goyer has a true talent for creating believable characters readers can identify and empathize with. Anyone who enjoys Amish fiction will appreciate this moving tale."
Sally Laity , author of Remnant of Forgiveness
"I was pulled into Tricia Goyer's Along Wooded Paths from the first page! A devastating past, a heart-breaking choice, this story has it all. Endearing, lovely in every way. If you love heart-warming Amish fiction you can't go wrong here."
Traci DePree , author of the Lake Emily series and Into the Wilderness
As Marianna begins helping those different from herself—and receiving their help—her heart contemplates two directions. She’s torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a closer walk with God than she’s ever seen before.
Who should have young Marianna’s heart? What is God asking her to sacrifice? Her traditions? Her community? The answer is found along the wooded paths.
Acclaim for Tricia Goyer’s Big Sky Series
“A wonderful story about the Amish and the way they live their lives by the writings of the Bible. Readers will delight in this.”
RT Book Reviews
“A sweet, tender tale that’s sure to please readers. Amish fiction fans will be wanting more from Ms. Goyer!”
AmishHearts.com
“A captivating story . . . the reader can’t wait to turn the page.”
Suzanne Woods Fisher , best-selling author, Lancaster County Series
"A sweet, tender story about God's gentle workings in the hearts of His own. Tricia Goyer has a true talent for creating believable characters readers can identify and empathize with. Anyone who enjoys Amish fiction will appreciate this moving tale."
Sally Laity , author of Remnant of Forgiveness
"I was pulled into Tricia Goyer's Along Wooded Paths from the first page! A devastating past, a heart-breaking choice, this story has it all. Endearing, lovely in every way. If you love heart-warming Amish fiction you can't go wrong here."
Traci DePree , author of the Lake Emily series and Into the Wilderness
307 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2011
227 people are currently reading
1297 people want to read
About the author
Tricia Goyer
163 books1,675 followersTricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
January 14, 2018
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
In my review of the first book in this series, I didn't think it would improve any, and I am sad to say that I was correct in that assessment. I was frankly bored with the story, despite the fact that it set itself up to be similar to the old Sunfire romances I used to read as a young girl.
The situation with Aaron felt so contrived! I kept wondering why he held on to his relationship with Marianna, when he was starting to show interest in someone else in Indiana. It seemed like he was just there to cast doubt and get in the way of a relationship between Marianna and Ben.
I also hated Marianna's wishy washy nature in this book, so much more than I had in the previous one! It was like she couldn't think for herself, despite the strides she had made in growing closer to the Lord. It was such a turnaround from the previous novel!
I did like that the series felt more like a saga, in that we follow the same characters for three books, but I just think that this series and author are not for me, and will be avoiding them in the future.
In my review of the first book in this series, I didn't think it would improve any, and I am sad to say that I was correct in that assessment. I was frankly bored with the story, despite the fact that it set itself up to be similar to the old Sunfire romances I used to read as a young girl.
The situation with Aaron felt so contrived! I kept wondering why he held on to his relationship with Marianna, when he was starting to show interest in someone else in Indiana. It seemed like he was just there to cast doubt and get in the way of a relationship between Marianna and Ben.
I also hated Marianna's wishy washy nature in this book, so much more than I had in the previous one! It was like she couldn't think for herself, despite the strides she had made in growing closer to the Lord. It was such a turnaround from the previous novel!
I did like that the series felt more like a saga, in that we follow the same characters for three books, but I just think that this series and author are not for me, and will be avoiding them in the future.
November 10, 2011
“Along Wooded Paths” A Big Sky Series by Tricia Goyer
A Big Sky Series, Book Two, “Along Wooded Paths” by Tricia Goyer does not disappoint at all. Book One is “Beside Still Waters” and is all about Marianna and her family moving from the plains of Indiana to the mountainous region of Montana. Each book can be read on its own, but to get the true feeling of this book, these books should be read as the series in order. By doing so gives us the true meaning of this complete story.
I love this series so much because of the way it is written. I love Tricia Goyer’s style of writing, and in this genre, she has the characters come to life and jump off the pages at us. We can feel what they feel, think what they are thinking and even ask ourselves what the character are asking themselves. She has proven herself to be very talented at writing an Amish series, and these are by far no cookie-cutter stories like some Amish Fiction can be. This series of books is completely different from any of the other Amish books I have read so far. It is so different that it gets deep into the nitty-gritty of the characters. She even adds a little suspense in this story as it reads along.
I have read some of the reviews on this book and I want to address the romance, or some say, lack, thereof. There is not a lack of romance in this book at all, if you follow along, but more so what makes this book so good is the ‘anticipation and suspense’ of the love that has developed and is developing, and the love to come, and with whom. If you want the traditional Amish romance that tends to turn out predictable, then go grab a different author’s book where the stories all start to sound alike and are predictable. This book is not like that at all. Predictable, not at all! I guess I want to call this book a ‘mature’, grown-up version' of Amish books and it deserves every bit of that title. I really hope to see Tricia Goyer writer more books in the Amish genre. This has been so refreshing and entertaining, kind of like a curve-ball in Amish Fiction! I like this a lot!
This book has brought us to a city in Montana where the Amish and the English interact and live among each other without the usual tensions that other Amish communities seem to have. They, the Englischers and the Amish all sit down together at the same tables in a restaurant and have dinner together. They are friends that can count on each other. You will find them doing things together, even going to prayer meetings together and having get-togethers. This is such an enjoyable read, maybe even more realistic than just fiction. The sense of community really shines through in this story.
In this series, Tricia Goyer has us feel what these characters feel and draws us right into their lives. Between the two books in this series, so far this book has been, by far, my favorite. I am dying to read Book Three, which will be called “Beyond Hopes Valley”. I am sure, after reading this third book; it will then be my favorite! Each book just gets better and better.
In this book the story line has taken hold, developed and gets us living in Montana with these characters. This is a book I could sit down and read a second time and enjoy it just as much! How refreshing to read such a masterpiece in Amish Fiction! I sure hope she writes more of this genre! I found myself talking out loud to these characters’ which only happens when I am really into a great book!
Now that Marianna and her family are living in Montana, they are all falling into the pattern of daily life. Marianna meets a man named Ben, who is an Englischer. He teaches Marianna that it is possible to have a personal relationship with God, rather than just the Amish way of thinking about God, and the Amish don’t teach this concept. She is enjoying this very much; so much so, she even sneaks out one night in order to go to the prayer meeting. The prayer meeting is mixed with the Amish and the Outsiders. Marianna finds herself finding this prayer meeting very rewarding as she forms her own personal relationship with God, thanks to Ben who introduced her to it. She has found a sense of freedom in learning to have a personal relationship with God.
Marianna is being drawn closer to Ben. She really likes him, but there is still Aaron back in Indiana to whom she has pledged her heart to, yet she is finding she really likes it in Montana.
Even though this group of Amish that Marianna’s family moved to here in Montana is so different from the ‘typical’ Amish communities, they still follow the laws of the Amish, so if Marianna were to allow herself to fall in love and marry Ben, an outsider, she would be excommunicated from the church and her family, just like her brother, Levi, who in the end may or may not go back to being Amish. His parents are praying that he does return to the Amish community as they did lose two other children already, but I can’t give spoilers on this great book. However, I do feel Ben loves Marianna. She would never hear of this, though, even though deep down this very same thought has crossed her mind, and she has wondered if perhaps she might love him. Neither of these characters has said anything about this subject to the other, just thought it, but she would never allow herself to fall in love with Ben because of the threat of the excommunication. She loves her family and her faith too much to be able to accept a life like that.
Marianna thinks of Ben as having served his purpose in that he has taught her to have a personal relationship with God. This is all that Ben can be. Nothing more, yet he does enter her thoughts. When Marianna returns to Indiana, Ben will always have a soft spot in her heart for him.
I wonder if Ben, and if I remember correctly, Ben has entertained the thought of whether or not he could become Amish. If that were to occur, then Marianna could fall in love with him. It is so unusual for an Englischer to turn Amish, though, that it rarely happens.
Later towards the end of the book, we see Aaron come to Montana to see Marianna. She is delighted. She decides to go back home to Indiana, planning on spending the rest of her life with him. She has a few misgivings. Why? Trust is one of those misgivings, but why does she feel this way? She happily leaves Montana, hugging and kissing all of her newfound friends’ goodbye and leaves with Aaron to head back to Indiana to start planning her new life with Aaron, planning the Wedding. This is pretty much where our story leaves off without, again, giving any spoilers.
I cannot say enough or recommend this book anymore than I already have!
We do get a glimpse into Chapter One of the next, third book! This, I will leave for you to read! I think I can guess one thing, but I won’t say! I can only say, again, I can’t wait for Book Three to come out!
I hope for Amish Fiction lovers you get the opportunity to read this series and treasure it! It is one you will not put down till you have read it all. I HIGHLY recommend this book and give it 5 stars! Tricia Goyer has proven, once again, her writing skills are so talented!
I received this book for “FREE” from B & H Publishing through NetGalley, through their Book Reviewer’s Program in exchange to read and write a review about this book. It is NOT required for my review I write to be either positive or negative, but, “of my own opinion.” I was NOT provided with “ANY” monies to accept this book, “NOR” to read it, NOR were “ANY” monies given to me to write the review for this book. All that was ‘expected’ of me was to enjoy the pure pleasure of reading it. Again, the opinions expressed for and about this book are ‘of my own opinion’. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa... Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
A Big Sky Series, Book Two, “Along Wooded Paths” by Tricia Goyer does not disappoint at all. Book One is “Beside Still Waters” and is all about Marianna and her family moving from the plains of Indiana to the mountainous region of Montana. Each book can be read on its own, but to get the true feeling of this book, these books should be read as the series in order. By doing so gives us the true meaning of this complete story.
I love this series so much because of the way it is written. I love Tricia Goyer’s style of writing, and in this genre, she has the characters come to life and jump off the pages at us. We can feel what they feel, think what they are thinking and even ask ourselves what the character are asking themselves. She has proven herself to be very talented at writing an Amish series, and these are by far no cookie-cutter stories like some Amish Fiction can be. This series of books is completely different from any of the other Amish books I have read so far. It is so different that it gets deep into the nitty-gritty of the characters. She even adds a little suspense in this story as it reads along.
I have read some of the reviews on this book and I want to address the romance, or some say, lack, thereof. There is not a lack of romance in this book at all, if you follow along, but more so what makes this book so good is the ‘anticipation and suspense’ of the love that has developed and is developing, and the love to come, and with whom. If you want the traditional Amish romance that tends to turn out predictable, then go grab a different author’s book where the stories all start to sound alike and are predictable. This book is not like that at all. Predictable, not at all! I guess I want to call this book a ‘mature’, grown-up version' of Amish books and it deserves every bit of that title. I really hope to see Tricia Goyer writer more books in the Amish genre. This has been so refreshing and entertaining, kind of like a curve-ball in Amish Fiction! I like this a lot!
This book has brought us to a city in Montana where the Amish and the English interact and live among each other without the usual tensions that other Amish communities seem to have. They, the Englischers and the Amish all sit down together at the same tables in a restaurant and have dinner together. They are friends that can count on each other. You will find them doing things together, even going to prayer meetings together and having get-togethers. This is such an enjoyable read, maybe even more realistic than just fiction. The sense of community really shines through in this story.
In this series, Tricia Goyer has us feel what these characters feel and draws us right into their lives. Between the two books in this series, so far this book has been, by far, my favorite. I am dying to read Book Three, which will be called “Beyond Hopes Valley”. I am sure, after reading this third book; it will then be my favorite! Each book just gets better and better.
In this book the story line has taken hold, developed and gets us living in Montana with these characters. This is a book I could sit down and read a second time and enjoy it just as much! How refreshing to read such a masterpiece in Amish Fiction! I sure hope she writes more of this genre! I found myself talking out loud to these characters’ which only happens when I am really into a great book!
Now that Marianna and her family are living in Montana, they are all falling into the pattern of daily life. Marianna meets a man named Ben, who is an Englischer. He teaches Marianna that it is possible to have a personal relationship with God, rather than just the Amish way of thinking about God, and the Amish don’t teach this concept. She is enjoying this very much; so much so, she even sneaks out one night in order to go to the prayer meeting. The prayer meeting is mixed with the Amish and the Outsiders. Marianna finds herself finding this prayer meeting very rewarding as she forms her own personal relationship with God, thanks to Ben who introduced her to it. She has found a sense of freedom in learning to have a personal relationship with God.
Marianna is being drawn closer to Ben. She really likes him, but there is still Aaron back in Indiana to whom she has pledged her heart to, yet she is finding she really likes it in Montana.
Even though this group of Amish that Marianna’s family moved to here in Montana is so different from the ‘typical’ Amish communities, they still follow the laws of the Amish, so if Marianna were to allow herself to fall in love and marry Ben, an outsider, she would be excommunicated from the church and her family, just like her brother, Levi, who in the end may or may not go back to being Amish. His parents are praying that he does return to the Amish community as they did lose two other children already, but I can’t give spoilers on this great book. However, I do feel Ben loves Marianna. She would never hear of this, though, even though deep down this very same thought has crossed her mind, and she has wondered if perhaps she might love him. Neither of these characters has said anything about this subject to the other, just thought it, but she would never allow herself to fall in love with Ben because of the threat of the excommunication. She loves her family and her faith too much to be able to accept a life like that.
Marianna thinks of Ben as having served his purpose in that he has taught her to have a personal relationship with God. This is all that Ben can be. Nothing more, yet he does enter her thoughts. When Marianna returns to Indiana, Ben will always have a soft spot in her heart for him.
I wonder if Ben, and if I remember correctly, Ben has entertained the thought of whether or not he could become Amish. If that were to occur, then Marianna could fall in love with him. It is so unusual for an Englischer to turn Amish, though, that it rarely happens.
Later towards the end of the book, we see Aaron come to Montana to see Marianna. She is delighted. She decides to go back home to Indiana, planning on spending the rest of her life with him. She has a few misgivings. Why? Trust is one of those misgivings, but why does she feel this way? She happily leaves Montana, hugging and kissing all of her newfound friends’ goodbye and leaves with Aaron to head back to Indiana to start planning her new life with Aaron, planning the Wedding. This is pretty much where our story leaves off without, again, giving any spoilers.
I cannot say enough or recommend this book anymore than I already have!
We do get a glimpse into Chapter One of the next, third book! This, I will leave for you to read! I think I can guess one thing, but I won’t say! I can only say, again, I can’t wait for Book Three to come out!
I hope for Amish Fiction lovers you get the opportunity to read this series and treasure it! It is one you will not put down till you have read it all. I HIGHLY recommend this book and give it 5 stars! Tricia Goyer has proven, once again, her writing skills are so talented!
I received this book for “FREE” from B & H Publishing through NetGalley, through their Book Reviewer’s Program in exchange to read and write a review about this book. It is NOT required for my review I write to be either positive or negative, but, “of my own opinion.” I was NOT provided with “ANY” monies to accept this book, “NOR” to read it, NOR were “ANY” monies given to me to write the review for this book. All that was ‘expected’ of me was to enjoy the pure pleasure of reading it. Again, the opinions expressed for and about this book are ‘of my own opinion’. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa... Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
October 2, 2011
Title: ALONG WOODED PATHS
Author: Tricia Goyer
Publisher: Broadman & Holman
September 2011
ISBN: 978-1-4336-6869-2
Genre: Inspirational/Amish Romance
Marianna Sommer has adjusted to life in Montana and she loves it there. She’s settled in, making new friends with both English and Amish, and she has a job with a great boss that she loves.
She’s also still struggling with her feelings for Ben—the English man who introduced her to God. Her parents fear that Ben will steal her heart, so without telling her Dat, Memm invites Aaron, Marianna’s “fiancé” to visit. There’s an accident and Aaron ends up breaking his leg, and stranded at Marianna’s house. Marianne is upset and bothered by this, but she has no choice but to care for Aaron.
Will this enforced lengthy visit win her heart back to Aaron? Or will Ben win? Either answer means a heartbreak.
I read Ms. Goyer’s first Amish book Beside Still Waters and feel this book is ten thousand times better. While Beside Still Waters is etched with sadness, ALONG WOODED PATHS is full of hope, of encouragement, and even joy, despite the decisions that Marianna must make.
Both Aaron and Ben are good men and I didn’t really have a strong feeling which man should win Marianne’s affections until the end – then I knew who I wanted to win. I’m looking forward to reading the last book in this series to see if it will end the way I think it’ll end. There’s some yummy sounding recipes included at the end of the book as well as a preview for the third book, coming in April 2012.
If you like Amish fiction, don’t miss ALONG WOODED PATHS. $14.99. 306 pages.
Author: Tricia Goyer
Publisher: Broadman & Holman
September 2011
ISBN: 978-1-4336-6869-2
Genre: Inspirational/Amish Romance
Marianna Sommer has adjusted to life in Montana and she loves it there. She’s settled in, making new friends with both English and Amish, and she has a job with a great boss that she loves.
She’s also still struggling with her feelings for Ben—the English man who introduced her to God. Her parents fear that Ben will steal her heart, so without telling her Dat, Memm invites Aaron, Marianna’s “fiancé” to visit. There’s an accident and Aaron ends up breaking his leg, and stranded at Marianna’s house. Marianne is upset and bothered by this, but she has no choice but to care for Aaron.
Will this enforced lengthy visit win her heart back to Aaron? Or will Ben win? Either answer means a heartbreak.
I read Ms. Goyer’s first Amish book Beside Still Waters and feel this book is ten thousand times better. While Beside Still Waters is etched with sadness, ALONG WOODED PATHS is full of hope, of encouragement, and even joy, despite the decisions that Marianna must make.
Both Aaron and Ben are good men and I didn’t really have a strong feeling which man should win Marianne’s affections until the end – then I knew who I wanted to win. I’m looking forward to reading the last book in this series to see if it will end the way I think it’ll end. There’s some yummy sounding recipes included at the end of the book as well as a preview for the third book, coming in April 2012.
If you like Amish fiction, don’t miss ALONG WOODED PATHS. $14.99. 306 pages.
October 26, 2011
Book Review: Along Wooded Paths by Tricia Goyer
By Rachel Ropper
GENRE: AMISH
PUBLISHER: B & H PUBLISHING
PUBLICATION DATE: OCTOBER 1, 2011
RATING: 10 OUT OF 10
Following directly on from Marianna’s decision to remain in Montana at the end of Beside Still Waters, the second in the Big Sky trilogy explores the difficulties Marianna is having not only in deciding between Englisher Ben and her beau back in Indiana, but also in her spiritual journey. Two men show her two paths she can take in her life – should she remain with her family’s Amish faith and cut herself off from the rest of the world, or is it worth joining the English world to be with Ben and experiment with reading an English Bible, playing instruments and attending prayer meetings? As she and her family get to know their English neighbours better, it is not just Marianna who is forced to answer difficult questions about the way they have chosen to live and whether this is the only way to please God. Matters are complicated further when an old friend from back home pays a visit and ends up staying longer than planned, forcing Marianna to speed up her decision making and figure out whether staying in Montana is best for her, spiritually and emotionally, or if she should finally return to Indiana.
It’s not often that I read a series of books in the Amish genre where each book picks up where the last one finished. In fact, Tricia’s Big Sky trilogy reminds me of Beverly Lewis more than anyone else who writes Amish novels, and that’s a big compliment for an author who is a newcomer to the genre! But I don’t think that Marianna’s story could have been condensed into one single book. After finishing Beside Still Waters I was itching to read the next instalment to find out what turns Marianna’s life would take next. The first book in the series rather ended on a cliff-hanger, so if you haven’t started this series at the beginning I’d recommend going back to Beside Still Waters to avoid any conclusion. While some series can be read out of order, I wouldn’t recommend this for the Big Sky trilogy.
While I felt that this story was a little more slow-moving than Beside Still Waters, and Marianna dallied over her decisions and could be quite indecisive in places, it was wonderful to read a book that was so driven and motivated by a character’s internal emotions and dilemmas, rather than the characters themselves being moved along by dramatic events in the plot. Tricia addresses many issues that are often skimmed over and avoided in other Amish novels, such as whether a prayer covering is really necessary for prayer, or whether those who are not Amish can still receive salvation through Christ. Although Marianna’s mother remains mostly stuck in her ways, hoping her daughter won’t be too influenced by her new English friends, her father finds himself querying some of the Amish teachings as he begins to read an English Bible and is given insight into some scriptures from Ben, an Englisher. We “Englishers” often enjoy reading novels in which the Amish and English get on perfectly well without ever addressing these issues, so it was interesting to read a book in which the Amish and English are forced to interact daily because of the practicalities of living in such a remote location, and in which such a situation causes them to question the lives they have been living. In particular, it was wonderful to see Marianna’s faith in God grow and change over the course of this series. I can sometimes be picky about the Christian fiction that I read, and despite being a Christian I still find some books to be verging on preaching in their attempts to display a Christian message. I had no such issues with Along Wooded Paths, and found myself becoming thoroughly engaged in Marianna’s spiritual journey, finding it far more real than many I’d encountered previously in Christian fiction. I hope that Marianna’s situation can speak to others who are having difficulties in their faith lives and encourage them to make the changes necessary to draw them closer to God.
But of course, where would an Amish novel be without a pinch of romance? Having left Aaron behind in Indiana in the first book in the series, Marianna finds herself falling for Ben, an Englisher and therefore entirely forbidden. Her father in particular is concerned about their closeness and it is in Along Wooded Paths that Marianna had to consider whether their friendship is entirely suitable. Friends and colleagues begin speculating about their relationship, particularly when Aaron comes to Montana for a visit, forcing Marianna to decide between the two lifestyles and two men, once and for all. I’m still not sure whether I was entirely surprised by Marianna’s ultimate decision, but there’s always the chance that she may change her mind in the third and final book in the trilogy, Beyond Hope’s Valley.
I’ve become entirely addicted to the Big Sky series, and like many other Amish fans, I’m wishing that time would go faster so that I could read Beyond Hope’s Valley and discover where Marianna’s life takes her next. Tricia Goyer has brought something new and refreshing to the Amish genre and I hope that novels like Along Wooded Paths will encourage new readers, particularly those who have been wary of the romance-orientated novels that the genre is often concentrated on. The spiritual and emotional depths of Tricia’s characters are something that I’m particularly fond of, and I have high hopes for Beyond Hope’s Valley in April 2012.
Review title provided courtesy of B & H Publishing.
By Rachel Ropper
GENRE: AMISH
PUBLISHER: B & H PUBLISHING
PUBLICATION DATE: OCTOBER 1, 2011
RATING: 10 OUT OF 10
Following directly on from Marianna’s decision to remain in Montana at the end of Beside Still Waters, the second in the Big Sky trilogy explores the difficulties Marianna is having not only in deciding between Englisher Ben and her beau back in Indiana, but also in her spiritual journey. Two men show her two paths she can take in her life – should she remain with her family’s Amish faith and cut herself off from the rest of the world, or is it worth joining the English world to be with Ben and experiment with reading an English Bible, playing instruments and attending prayer meetings? As she and her family get to know their English neighbours better, it is not just Marianna who is forced to answer difficult questions about the way they have chosen to live and whether this is the only way to please God. Matters are complicated further when an old friend from back home pays a visit and ends up staying longer than planned, forcing Marianna to speed up her decision making and figure out whether staying in Montana is best for her, spiritually and emotionally, or if she should finally return to Indiana.
It’s not often that I read a series of books in the Amish genre where each book picks up where the last one finished. In fact, Tricia’s Big Sky trilogy reminds me of Beverly Lewis more than anyone else who writes Amish novels, and that’s a big compliment for an author who is a newcomer to the genre! But I don’t think that Marianna’s story could have been condensed into one single book. After finishing Beside Still Waters I was itching to read the next instalment to find out what turns Marianna’s life would take next. The first book in the series rather ended on a cliff-hanger, so if you haven’t started this series at the beginning I’d recommend going back to Beside Still Waters to avoid any conclusion. While some series can be read out of order, I wouldn’t recommend this for the Big Sky trilogy.
While I felt that this story was a little more slow-moving than Beside Still Waters, and Marianna dallied over her decisions and could be quite indecisive in places, it was wonderful to read a book that was so driven and motivated by a character’s internal emotions and dilemmas, rather than the characters themselves being moved along by dramatic events in the plot. Tricia addresses many issues that are often skimmed over and avoided in other Amish novels, such as whether a prayer covering is really necessary for prayer, or whether those who are not Amish can still receive salvation through Christ. Although Marianna’s mother remains mostly stuck in her ways, hoping her daughter won’t be too influenced by her new English friends, her father finds himself querying some of the Amish teachings as he begins to read an English Bible and is given insight into some scriptures from Ben, an Englisher. We “Englishers” often enjoy reading novels in which the Amish and English get on perfectly well without ever addressing these issues, so it was interesting to read a book in which the Amish and English are forced to interact daily because of the practicalities of living in such a remote location, and in which such a situation causes them to question the lives they have been living. In particular, it was wonderful to see Marianna’s faith in God grow and change over the course of this series. I can sometimes be picky about the Christian fiction that I read, and despite being a Christian I still find some books to be verging on preaching in their attempts to display a Christian message. I had no such issues with Along Wooded Paths, and found myself becoming thoroughly engaged in Marianna’s spiritual journey, finding it far more real than many I’d encountered previously in Christian fiction. I hope that Marianna’s situation can speak to others who are having difficulties in their faith lives and encourage them to make the changes necessary to draw them closer to God.
But of course, where would an Amish novel be without a pinch of romance? Having left Aaron behind in Indiana in the first book in the series, Marianna finds herself falling for Ben, an Englisher and therefore entirely forbidden. Her father in particular is concerned about their closeness and it is in Along Wooded Paths that Marianna had to consider whether their friendship is entirely suitable. Friends and colleagues begin speculating about their relationship, particularly when Aaron comes to Montana for a visit, forcing Marianna to decide between the two lifestyles and two men, once and for all. I’m still not sure whether I was entirely surprised by Marianna’s ultimate decision, but there’s always the chance that she may change her mind in the third and final book in the trilogy, Beyond Hope’s Valley.
I’ve become entirely addicted to the Big Sky series, and like many other Amish fans, I’m wishing that time would go faster so that I could read Beyond Hope’s Valley and discover where Marianna’s life takes her next. Tricia Goyer has brought something new and refreshing to the Amish genre and I hope that novels like Along Wooded Paths will encourage new readers, particularly those who have been wary of the romance-orientated novels that the genre is often concentrated on. The spiritual and emotional depths of Tricia’s characters are something that I’m particularly fond of, and I have high hopes for Beyond Hope’s Valley in April 2012.
Review title provided courtesy of B & H Publishing.
September 4, 2018
READ THIS!
Oh, these books! I wish I could read faster but at the same time there is so much depth to the story that you just have to read slowly and let it melt against your heart.
Oh, these books! I wish I could read faster but at the same time there is so much depth to the story that you just have to read slowly and let it melt against your heart.
December 28, 2011
Until I got my hands on the two novels currently in the Big Sky Series by Tricia Goyer, I'll confess...I wasn't a huge fan of her work. Now, before you go bashing me on the head because I've lost my marbles, let me be clear. She's a good author, but up until a week ago, her books didn't have that "zing" or "snap-crackle-pop" that I love to experience when reading. And now....we've got a "snap-crackle-pop," a "zippa-de-do-dah," and a "wowza!" all rolled together thanks to her latest offering--Along Wooded Paths--the second book in the Big Sky Series.
I love Amish stories that take me beyond the borders of Pennsylvania, Ohio, or Indiana (where most Amish stories are set). This series just happens to take place in Montana, and thanks to the majestic mountains and the small-town folk, the little town of Kootenai is almost a character by itself. Everyone loves to stop by the little store where Marianna works so they can get a good meal, maybe a slice of cake, and some good conversation. You may even find Ben there once in awhile, participating in an open mic night of sorts. But what sets this one little place apart from all the other Amish communities is the ordinary interaction between the Englisch and the Amish. In most Amish novels, the Englisch are pictured in one of three ways: as a mode of transportation, as a trusted doctor that they visit regularly, or as a temptation to some young boy or girl during their rumshpringa. But when your car is stuck on the side of the road, or when your cabinets are void of food...everyone helps each other. That quality alone makes this series different from any other Amish series I've ever read, and ya know...I'd love to see a whole lot more of 'em.
If all that wasn't enough to really make Tricia's Amish novels unique, she's got one more little trick up her sleeve--their interaction with God. Now, if you're a regular to Amish books, you know that they are pretty much "by the book" when it comes to matters of church, faith, and their Ordnung. Just like every other facet of their lives, there is a system and order to things that has been there for hundreds of years. While I understand most of it (although I couldn't ever physically do it all), I've always wondered about the religious side of things. Why don't they believe in reading the Bible on their own? Why do they almost blindly trust every word from their bishop's mouth? Why do they believe in praying silently versus praying aloud? Do they believe that they're the only chosen group going to heaven? What about outsiders that say they're Christians, too? In Along Wooded Paths, Marianna has many of those same questions, too, and I'm on pins and needles waiting to find out how she comes to terms with her new relationship with God, and how it's so special to her.
And good grief, you'll smack me upside the head for sure if I don't give you the best morsel of all! Yep....there's a love triangle, too! And sweet mercy, it's a good 'un...one of the very best I've read in a long time. :o) Now, Marianna hasn't sided with the right guy yet, in my opinion, but I'm still hoping for things to work out the way they're supposed to...there's still hope. I just don't think she's truly happy with her decision at this point. (Oh, and there's not one triangle, but two...geez, could this book get any better?!)
Not since book 3 of Cindy Woodsmall's first Amish series have I been so impatient to read the last book in a series! How many days 'til April 1, 2012, Tricia...because I promise, I'm countin' them down!
I love Amish stories that take me beyond the borders of Pennsylvania, Ohio, or Indiana (where most Amish stories are set). This series just happens to take place in Montana, and thanks to the majestic mountains and the small-town folk, the little town of Kootenai is almost a character by itself. Everyone loves to stop by the little store where Marianna works so they can get a good meal, maybe a slice of cake, and some good conversation. You may even find Ben there once in awhile, participating in an open mic night of sorts. But what sets this one little place apart from all the other Amish communities is the ordinary interaction between the Englisch and the Amish. In most Amish novels, the Englisch are pictured in one of three ways: as a mode of transportation, as a trusted doctor that they visit regularly, or as a temptation to some young boy or girl during their rumshpringa. But when your car is stuck on the side of the road, or when your cabinets are void of food...everyone helps each other. That quality alone makes this series different from any other Amish series I've ever read, and ya know...I'd love to see a whole lot more of 'em.
If all that wasn't enough to really make Tricia's Amish novels unique, she's got one more little trick up her sleeve--their interaction with God. Now, if you're a regular to Amish books, you know that they are pretty much "by the book" when it comes to matters of church, faith, and their Ordnung. Just like every other facet of their lives, there is a system and order to things that has been there for hundreds of years. While I understand most of it (although I couldn't ever physically do it all), I've always wondered about the religious side of things. Why don't they believe in reading the Bible on their own? Why do they almost blindly trust every word from their bishop's mouth? Why do they believe in praying silently versus praying aloud? Do they believe that they're the only chosen group going to heaven? What about outsiders that say they're Christians, too? In Along Wooded Paths, Marianna has many of those same questions, too, and I'm on pins and needles waiting to find out how she comes to terms with her new relationship with God, and how it's so special to her.
And good grief, you'll smack me upside the head for sure if I don't give you the best morsel of all! Yep....there's a love triangle, too! And sweet mercy, it's a good 'un...one of the very best I've read in a long time. :o) Now, Marianna hasn't sided with the right guy yet, in my opinion, but I'm still hoping for things to work out the way they're supposed to...there's still hope. I just don't think she's truly happy with her decision at this point. (Oh, and there's not one triangle, but two...geez, could this book get any better?!)
Not since book 3 of Cindy Woodsmall's first Amish series have I been so impatient to read the last book in a series! How many days 'til April 1, 2012, Tricia...because I promise, I'm countin' them down!
May 3, 2012
Book two picks right up where book one left off. Marianna stayed in Montana with her family instead of returning to Indiana and Aaron like she had planned. She is finding herself drawing closer to God and also questioning some of the beliefs her people believe. She is also drawing closer to Ben an Englischer.
Aaron can’t wait any more he needs to find out if Marianna is going to be his. He head to Montana but ends up in a car wreck and breaks his leg. He finds himself at the mercy of Marianna’s family. Will having Aaron around set Marianna on the course for marriage or will Ben be to big a obstacle to ignore?
I have only read a few series where all the books are about one character. I was a little disappointed in this book.
What I liked: I enjoyed the depth of this book how with three books about the same characters the author has time to really explore them. I like how Marianna is continuing to get closer to God and see how he loves everyone not just the Amish. I also liked how we got to know Ben and Aaron even more in this book. There is also more information about her parents and some things from book one is better explained in this book.
What I did not like: I struggled to get into this book. I took a few weeks to read it. I found my mind wondering and not being able to focus because the first part of the book seemed to drag on and on. This book really is the medium between the first and the third book to come and for me that made it hard to stay interested. Finally at about 70% in it started to pick up and I found myself enjoying it again.
Over all I am enjoying this series and can’t wait to read the third and final book when it comes out later this year. I admit I also have my favorite between Aaron and Ben and find it hard to like the one I don’t like. I am excited to see who she ends up picking. I really think this book would have been better in one or two books not three but its still a good series. You really have to read these books in order though so be sure to pick up Beside Still Waters first!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
Aaron can’t wait any more he needs to find out if Marianna is going to be his. He head to Montana but ends up in a car wreck and breaks his leg. He finds himself at the mercy of Marianna’s family. Will having Aaron around set Marianna on the course for marriage or will Ben be to big a obstacle to ignore?
I have only read a few series where all the books are about one character. I was a little disappointed in this book.
What I liked: I enjoyed the depth of this book how with three books about the same characters the author has time to really explore them. I like how Marianna is continuing to get closer to God and see how he loves everyone not just the Amish. I also liked how we got to know Ben and Aaron even more in this book. There is also more information about her parents and some things from book one is better explained in this book.
What I did not like: I struggled to get into this book. I took a few weeks to read it. I found my mind wondering and not being able to focus because the first part of the book seemed to drag on and on. This book really is the medium between the first and the third book to come and for me that made it hard to stay interested. Finally at about 70% in it started to pick up and I found myself enjoying it again.
Over all I am enjoying this series and can’t wait to read the third and final book when it comes out later this year. I admit I also have my favorite between Aaron and Ben and find it hard to like the one I don’t like. I am excited to see who she ends up picking. I really think this book would have been better in one or two books not three but its still a good series. You really have to read these books in order though so be sure to pick up Beside Still Waters first!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
December 6, 2012
Along-Wooded-Pathssm.jpg
Tricia Goyer has quickly become one of my very favorite authors. I recently reviewed the first book in her Big Sky series, Beside Still Waters, which introduced us to Marianna Sommer. I fell in love and couldn't wait for the second book, Along Wooded Paths, to be released.
Along Wooded Paths continues the story of Marianna and her family after their move to Montana. We watch as she opens her heart to bits of the Englisch (English) way of life and starts to see that being friends with those outside your own community is possible. We also watch Marianna struggle with her heart. She has deep feelings not only for her childhood love Aaron Zook, but also for an Englischer named Ben. Ben has a very deep connection with God and this surprises Marianna. But it also surprises her father. He never realized that non-Amish folk can be that close to and walk with the Lord. While her faith in God and her beliefs in the Amish life don't waiver, she does struggle with the path her heart is taking. Along Wooded Paths brings Aaron back into her life and she must choose which love she will take. And her uncle, Ike, doesn't help matters much when she sees his affection for the English too! It's an Amish love story!
I love the way Tricia writes the two lifestyles. She does a wonderful job of showing us the Amish traditions and beliefs & how they differ from the English. Yet she also shows how the two can connect and live together as friends. Just because your beliefs are different doesn't mean you can't rejoice together in your similarities. Tricia shows us that and I love it. This writing style pulls you in and makes you root for every character in her novels. I hope there are many more books in the Big Sky series. And so does my husband's step-mom who called dibs as the first person to read Along Wooded Paths after I finished my review. She is as excited by the release as I am!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of Beside Still Waters as a member of LitFuse blog tours. All opinions are my own.
Tricia Goyer has quickly become one of my very favorite authors. I recently reviewed the first book in her Big Sky series, Beside Still Waters, which introduced us to Marianna Sommer. I fell in love and couldn't wait for the second book, Along Wooded Paths, to be released.
Along Wooded Paths continues the story of Marianna and her family after their move to Montana. We watch as she opens her heart to bits of the Englisch (English) way of life and starts to see that being friends with those outside your own community is possible. We also watch Marianna struggle with her heart. She has deep feelings not only for her childhood love Aaron Zook, but also for an Englischer named Ben. Ben has a very deep connection with God and this surprises Marianna. But it also surprises her father. He never realized that non-Amish folk can be that close to and walk with the Lord. While her faith in God and her beliefs in the Amish life don't waiver, she does struggle with the path her heart is taking. Along Wooded Paths brings Aaron back into her life and she must choose which love she will take. And her uncle, Ike, doesn't help matters much when she sees his affection for the English too! It's an Amish love story!
I love the way Tricia writes the two lifestyles. She does a wonderful job of showing us the Amish traditions and beliefs & how they differ from the English. Yet she also shows how the two can connect and live together as friends. Just because your beliefs are different doesn't mean you can't rejoice together in your similarities. Tricia shows us that and I love it. This writing style pulls you in and makes you root for every character in her novels. I hope there are many more books in the Big Sky series. And so does my husband's step-mom who called dibs as the first person to read Along Wooded Paths after I finished my review. She is as excited by the release as I am!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of Beside Still Waters as a member of LitFuse blog tours. All opinions are my own.
January 19, 2025
Along Wooded Paths
I’ve only read two of her books, but Tricia Goyer is becoming one of my favorite authors. You can just feel the characters emotions, feel the crunch of snow underneath your feet, and feel God’s tug of war with Marianna.
Aaron Zook makes the decision to visit Marianna in Montana (his best friend and one hopes to marry). Mari is torn between the two men who have captured her heart. Ben is an Englischer, yet has a deep love and connection to God. Only God can lead Mari to the right man. Which way is the path leading her.
I love how Tricia talks about the Amish traditions and beliefs and how they are different than the English, they can still connect and be friends. I love how Marianna is opening her heart to the Englisch (English). Since her time in Montana she has made several English friends and has opened her heart and arms to helping others no matter what. She stepped right in and helped Jenny.
I love when she starts to realize (with the help of God) that it’s not your outward appearance that matters, it’s what’s inside your heart that matters.
Since coming to Montana, Mari has grown in her faith and learns what a relationship with God really is.
I’ve only read two of her books, but Tricia Goyer is becoming one of my favorite authors. You can just feel the characters emotions, feel the crunch of snow underneath your feet, and feel God’s tug of war with Marianna.
Aaron Zook makes the decision to visit Marianna in Montana (his best friend and one hopes to marry). Mari is torn between the two men who have captured her heart. Ben is an Englischer, yet has a deep love and connection to God. Only God can lead Mari to the right man. Which way is the path leading her.
I love how Tricia talks about the Amish traditions and beliefs and how they are different than the English, they can still connect and be friends. I love how Marianna is opening her heart to the Englisch (English). Since her time in Montana she has made several English friends and has opened her heart and arms to helping others no matter what. She stepped right in and helped Jenny.
I love when she starts to realize (with the help of God) that it’s not your outward appearance that matters, it’s what’s inside your heart that matters.
Since coming to Montana, Mari has grown in her faith and learns what a relationship with God really is.
March 13, 2014
Along Wooded Paths, By: Tricia Goyer
This continues the story of Marianna Sommer and Aaron Zook.
Marianna contines to work in the store in Montana.
She is growing more accustomed to the English.
She is amazedat how well the Amish here in there small community
get along with the English. They socialize a lot more together
than than her old community she grew up in. They is even a prayer
group of English and Amish that come together once a week to pray.
Marianna still strugles with her feeling for Aaron Zook.
The man she was suppose to marry. Marianna has strong feelings
for Ben an Englisch. She struggles with them.
She knows how much it would hurt her family if she left the
Amish life for Ben. After all the hurt they have been through.
Losing two daughters in a buggy accident and her brother Levi
walking away from the Amish life.
Aaron isn’t happy about Marianna working in the store being
around the Englisch.
THis story keep me guessing to the very end.
It is a must read book.
5 stars
This continues the story of Marianna Sommer and Aaron Zook.
Marianna contines to work in the store in Montana.
She is growing more accustomed to the English.
She is amazedat how well the Amish here in there small community
get along with the English. They socialize a lot more together
than than her old community she grew up in. They is even a prayer
group of English and Amish that come together once a week to pray.
Marianna still strugles with her feeling for Aaron Zook.
The man she was suppose to marry. Marianna has strong feelings
for Ben an Englisch. She struggles with them.
She knows how much it would hurt her family if she left the
Amish life for Ben. After all the hurt they have been through.
Losing two daughters in a buggy accident and her brother Levi
walking away from the Amish life.
Aaron isn’t happy about Marianna working in the store being
around the Englisch.
THis story keep me guessing to the very end.
It is a must read book.
5 stars
August 29, 2011
This is the second book in this series, and you do not have needed to have read the first one to enjoy this book, but I would recommend you do.
Marianna continues to strengthen her relationship with God. Her boyfriend Aaron arrives in Montana, with a broken leg from an accident that happened on his way there. He ends up staying with the Sommers, and makes Marianna questioning her relationships in both the English and Amish worlds.
I loved the heart of the people of this small town, they seem to be there for people in need.
There are some questions answered in this book as to whom Marianna will end up....Aaron or Ben? Also what happens to Levi, and what has been bothering Mam.
A very enjoyable read!
I was provided with a copy of this book by the publisher, and was not required to give a positive review.
Marianna continues to strengthen her relationship with God. Her boyfriend Aaron arrives in Montana, with a broken leg from an accident that happened on his way there. He ends up staying with the Sommers, and makes Marianna questioning her relationships in both the English and Amish worlds.
I loved the heart of the people of this small town, they seem to be there for people in need.
There are some questions answered in this book as to whom Marianna will end up....Aaron or Ben? Also what happens to Levi, and what has been bothering Mam.
A very enjoyable read!
I was provided with a copy of this book by the publisher, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 6, 2011
In the book Along Wooded Paths, Tricia Goyer’s second book in the Big Sky series, we once again join Marianna with her family in Montana. Her heart is still torn between two men and that dilemma is made more intense when her Amish fiance’ shows up.
As we struggle along with Marianna as she tries to make a decision between the two men, Ms. Goyer treats us to some lyrical descriptions of the beautiful outdoors.
“And as she sat amongst the trees, with bird song filling the air, it was as if God sat beside her, whispering words of hope and promise to her heart.”
Such beautiful words to enjoy as we read through the book.
Although this is book two of the series, it does stand alone on its own merits. The references to events in the first book are explained enough to make this book enjoyable on its own, though I would recommend reading Beside Still Waters first.
As we struggle along with Marianna as she tries to make a decision between the two men, Ms. Goyer treats us to some lyrical descriptions of the beautiful outdoors.
“And as she sat amongst the trees, with bird song filling the air, it was as if God sat beside her, whispering words of hope and promise to her heart.”
Such beautiful words to enjoy as we read through the book.
Although this is book two of the series, it does stand alone on its own merits. The references to events in the first book are explained enough to make this book enjoyable on its own, though I would recommend reading Beside Still Waters first.
October 23, 2016
Well, this has to be one of the better Amish books I've read, although the indecision of Marriana was a bit annoying as it took up the entire book. Personally I think she made the right decision, but my heart went out to the other all the way through.
Marrianna has left Indiana to be with her family, leaving her betrothed and meeting another man not of her faith.
Two men love her...one an Englisher who was a musician getting away to the woods of Montana to learn a quieter way of life, and the other an Amish man who has loved her practically as long as he can remember. She cares for both but seems to be passionate about one, and can only think of what it would be like with him.
One day the Amish one arrives to see if he can rekindle what they had, or find out for sure if she has left their life behind.
Good story.
Marrianna has left Indiana to be with her family, leaving her betrothed and meeting another man not of her faith.
Two men love her...one an Englisher who was a musician getting away to the woods of Montana to learn a quieter way of life, and the other an Amish man who has loved her practically as long as he can remember. She cares for both but seems to be passionate about one, and can only think of what it would be like with him.
One day the Amish one arrives to see if he can rekindle what they had, or find out for sure if she has left their life behind.
Good story.
October 17, 2022
This book continued with the “love” triangle between Marianna, Ben, and Aaron. It seems more and more Marianna is falling in love with the Englisher, Ben. Ben is falling in love with her too, but he has a past. He lived in Southern California, had a music career, and a beautiful girlfriend, Carrie. He wants to get back to writing music and performing, but the conflict is how can he bring an Amish girl into his life? How would it look to the outside world that a successful musician has an Amish girlfriend? Ben wrote a song about Marianna, making her his wife. Apparently she didn’t recognize Ben’s voice when the song came on the radio during her goodbye party at the store. Carrie would love to get back with Ben. Will Ben settle for Carrie now that Marianna looks to be in love with Aaron?
Aaron decides to come to Montana to see Marianna. Unfortunately, there’s an accident on the icy roads and Aaron’s leg is broken. He stays with Marianna’s family while his leg heals. Marianna slowly comes to realize Aaron is the man for her. She feels a closeness to God, and learns more about God in ways she’s never known before. She feels He is leading her in the right direction. So when a letter arrives from her brother, Levi, saying he is returning to the Amish, Naomi is pregnant, and can Marianna return to Indiana to take care of Naomi, Marianna doesn’t hesitate to go back with Aaron. She can see the house Aaron built for them.
Questions still remain, though. Was Aaron telling the entire truth about him and Naomi? How close were they while Marianna left for Montana? Can Naomi’s baby be Aaron’s? Can Marianna live with that if that’s the case? Ben came to see Marianna when she was at the store during her going away party, but didn’t go to her. Will he be able to move on?
What about Uncle Ike and Annie? Uncle Ike thinks Marianna should marry Ben. Would he marry an English woman?
Aaron decides to come to Montana to see Marianna. Unfortunately, there’s an accident on the icy roads and Aaron’s leg is broken. He stays with Marianna’s family while his leg heals. Marianna slowly comes to realize Aaron is the man for her. She feels a closeness to God, and learns more about God in ways she’s never known before. She feels He is leading her in the right direction. So when a letter arrives from her brother, Levi, saying he is returning to the Amish, Naomi is pregnant, and can Marianna return to Indiana to take care of Naomi, Marianna doesn’t hesitate to go back with Aaron. She can see the house Aaron built for them.
Questions still remain, though. Was Aaron telling the entire truth about him and Naomi? How close were they while Marianna left for Montana? Can Naomi’s baby be Aaron’s? Can Marianna live with that if that’s the case? Ben came to see Marianna when she was at the store during her going away party, but didn’t go to her. Will he be able to move on?
What about Uncle Ike and Annie? Uncle Ike thinks Marianna should marry Ben. Would he marry an English woman?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2018
Love this story!
This is Book 2. It continues the story of Marianna. She is learning to love God in a way that she didn’t learn from her Amish upbringing. That causes conflict within her as she comes to see that God doesn’t care about how she dresses, does her, laundry, behave as a “perfect" Amish girl. He cares about what is in her heart, how she loves Him. How it becomes clear to her the Englischers love God just as much in their own way. She comes to realize God should be their judge, not their Amish neighbors making sure that the others around are following the Ordnung to the letter. That life is about serving and loving God, not being worried about trying to prove to your neighbors that you love God because you have your laundry done before breakfast, or you pin your dress, not button it, that you live exactly like your ancestors did because if it worked for them it must be the way God wants you to live. Mari strongly feels called to share that openness and love with the people back home who are worried more about what they are doing and how they are doing it than what God wants them to FEEL.
This book touches me as it talks about "feeling" the presence of God, not just knowing it and following it, even when you truly DO believe. There is so much more God has to offer, all it takes is learning more about Him by reading the Book He gave us.
This is Book 2. It continues the story of Marianna. She is learning to love God in a way that she didn’t learn from her Amish upbringing. That causes conflict within her as she comes to see that God doesn’t care about how she dresses, does her, laundry, behave as a “perfect" Amish girl. He cares about what is in her heart, how she loves Him. How it becomes clear to her the Englischers love God just as much in their own way. She comes to realize God should be their judge, not their Amish neighbors making sure that the others around are following the Ordnung to the letter. That life is about serving and loving God, not being worried about trying to prove to your neighbors that you love God because you have your laundry done before breakfast, or you pin your dress, not button it, that you live exactly like your ancestors did because if it worked for them it must be the way God wants you to live. Mari strongly feels called to share that openness and love with the people back home who are worried more about what they are doing and how they are doing it than what God wants them to FEEL.
This book touches me as it talks about "feeling" the presence of God, not just knowing it and following it, even when you truly DO believe. There is so much more God has to offer, all it takes is learning more about Him by reading the Book He gave us.
April 6, 2019
I was not really a fan of this book. It was ok, but nothing special. I like the Amish stories that talk a lot about the Amish lifestyle and culture, this one did not. This one focused completely on a cheesy love triangle. And the way the book ended? Such a let down. I was not a fan of Marianna, honestly, I wish she would have ended up alone. She kept lying and playing (granted she meant well, but still) both Ben and Aaron. As the saying goes, "if you fall in love with two people, choose the second, because it means you didn't truly love the first" and that was the case here. She loved Ben, but didn't want to because Aaron was "what she needed". Then I absolutely hated how the book made Aaron out to be the bad guy at the end just to make us keep liking Mari and think she made the right decision. I didn't read the last book, but I had to look up what happened, and just as I expected, how disappointing. Aaron ended up being the one who got Naomi pregnant and lied to Mari. So Mari ends up getting to be the victim and run back to Ben *insert eye roll here*. I would have appreciated the book sooo much more if we had left both Aaron and Ben as both being good men and Mari just having to pick one and break someone's heart. She's human, it happens. That would have been so much better than this make the main character the likable victim cliche.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2020
My review for:
Along Wooded Paths
(A Big Sky Novel, #2)
by Tricia Goyer
=====================================
I loved Book #1, Beside Still Waters,
so I thought I'd be eager to go back to
the little town of West Kootenai, Montana....
I'm not sure if it was my frame of mind or what, but for some reason,
this particular one didn't capture my attention much.
A teenager on her "Rumpsringa",
Marianna had pretty much settled on staying Amish.
Ben, an outsider (aka not Amish),
continues challenging her faith as well as growing as a friend.
Marianna's newest co-worker Jenny and her little girl, Kenzie,
were part of the faith-stretching part of the story.
Then the Amish guy she believes she's in love with -Aaron -
unexpectedly shows up
and winds up in a car accident, landing in her family's home.
(Which Dat didn't even know about.
Like you couldn't even tell him, Mem?)
So basically the whole books is
yo-yoing between which guy she really loves
and jealousy between the 2 young men.
Personally, I'm with Uncle Ike and her little brothers:
Ben seems to be the better match for her.
Perhaps Book #3 will be better....
Along Wooded Paths
(A Big Sky Novel, #2)
by Tricia Goyer
=====================================
I loved Book #1, Beside Still Waters,
so I thought I'd be eager to go back to
the little town of West Kootenai, Montana....
I'm not sure if it was my frame of mind or what, but for some reason,
this particular one didn't capture my attention much.
A teenager on her "Rumpsringa",
Marianna had pretty much settled on staying Amish.
Ben, an outsider (aka not Amish),
continues challenging her faith as well as growing as a friend.
Marianna's newest co-worker Jenny and her little girl, Kenzie,
were part of the faith-stretching part of the story.
Then the Amish guy she believes she's in love with -Aaron -
unexpectedly shows up
and winds up in a car accident, landing in her family's home.
(Which Dat didn't even know about.
Like you couldn't even tell him, Mem?)
So basically the whole books is
yo-yoing between which guy she really loves
and jealousy between the 2 young men.
Personally, I'm with Uncle Ike and her little brothers:
Ben seems to be the better match for her.
Perhaps Book #3 will be better....
April 19, 2023
Along Wooded Paths by Tricia Goyer
Topic or themes I saw: Being seen for who you are, not what you look like. A wrestle with choices and longings. The wrestle with who you feel you’re supposed to be and who God made you to be.
Read it if you love:
✔️Books with hard choices and surrender ✔️Stories with strong spiritual growth and peace
✔️Amish Christian Fiction
Story: I just love the characters in the Big Sky series! Along Wooded paths continues the story of Marianna. Marianna has feelings for Ben, but all she’s ever wanted is to live a simple Amish life. As she wrestles with her warring feelings between Ben and Aaron, she also grows in her faith and understanding of what a relationship with God means. I really felt entrenched in the story, it was written in such a way it perfectly encapsulated the character’s emotions, desires, their struggles and choices. I was 100% invested in them.
Topic or themes I saw: Being seen for who you are, not what you look like. A wrestle with choices and longings. The wrestle with who you feel you’re supposed to be and who God made you to be.
Read it if you love:
✔️Books with hard choices and surrender ✔️Stories with strong spiritual growth and peace
✔️Amish Christian Fiction
Story: I just love the characters in the Big Sky series! Along Wooded paths continues the story of Marianna. Marianna has feelings for Ben, but all she’s ever wanted is to live a simple Amish life. As she wrestles with her warring feelings between Ben and Aaron, she also grows in her faith and understanding of what a relationship with God means. I really felt entrenched in the story, it was written in such a way it perfectly encapsulated the character’s emotions, desires, their struggles and choices. I was 100% invested in them.
May 25, 2020
I choose to read Amish fiction for literary fluff. I don't have to think too hard. I simply pick up the book (in this case, the Kindle) and easily start reading where I left off. It's not very hard to get back into the story line. This series is a bit different, in that there is a bit of interaction between the Amish Sommers family and their English neighbors. Marianna was introduced to the reader in book 1, Beside Still Waters. She is torn between the undying love of two men: Aaron (Amish) and Ben (English).
Not to spoil things, I will just say the book ended with her pursuing one of the men, but now I will read the third book (again) since it has been several years and I can't remember which one she ended up marrying. Oh, the sweet suspense! This is an enjoyable and non-stressful read during a pandemic. I read book 3 several years ago, not realizing it was the third in a series.
Not to spoil things, I will just say the book ended with her pursuing one of the men, but now I will read the third book (again) since it has been several years and I can't remember which one she ended up marrying. Oh, the sweet suspense! This is an enjoyable and non-stressful read during a pandemic. I read book 3 several years ago, not realizing it was the third in a series.
Read
June 25, 2024I really enjoyed the first book in the Big Sky Novel Series, Beside Still Waters so I was looking forward to reading the second book in the series, Along Wooded Paths, very much! I most certainly wasn’t disappointed. I felt this book was a lot more edge of your seat and page turning than the first one. I zoomed right through it, feeling as in turmoil about the situation as Marianna was herself, not knowing how I even wanted it to all turn out in the end. I love that this series delves into the similarities and differences of the “Englisch” and the Amish through the eyes of an Amish girl. Her self discovery and deepening faith adds an intensity to the plot line. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that it left me hanging and wanting more! I was kind of pouting that I’m going to have to wait for the next book to come out-anxiously awaiting to see how it all will truly end!
May 18, 2017
The second book in the Big Sky Series was just as intriguing as the first. Marianna is enjoying her new-found personal relationship with the God she always believed in but never really knew. Yet, a surprise visit from her male friend back home leaves her in a position of having to make a choice -- the Englischer she met in Montana who taught her to really know her Savior, or the Amish man from back home whom she always believed she'd marry. She must choose between relationship and tradition, ostracism and acceptance, God's will and hers. It's one side or the other...or can she have both? What IS God's will for her life? And what must she give up to have it? It's a question we all face at least once in our lives. Marianna chooses well.
September 11, 2018
Amish romance
Along Wooded Paths is the second in the series by Tricia Goyer. Set in the Big Sky country of Montana, Mariana has been introduced to a new way of thinking of God, as well as questioning whether wearing a kapp & apron & following the old traditions was required to get to heaven. Ben has taught her many things about God that she never considered before. Aaron comes to visit & hopes to bring Mariana back to Indiana. Mariana's heart has gone to Ben but because he is not Amish, she chooses Aaron. Recommended to those who enjoy the genre. Best to read the series in order.
Along Wooded Paths is the second in the series by Tricia Goyer. Set in the Big Sky country of Montana, Mariana has been introduced to a new way of thinking of God, as well as questioning whether wearing a kapp & apron & following the old traditions was required to get to heaven. Ben has taught her many things about God that she never considered before. Aaron comes to visit & hopes to bring Mariana back to Indiana. Mariana's heart has gone to Ben but because he is not Amish, she chooses Aaron. Recommended to those who enjoy the genre. Best to read the series in order.
January 8, 2021
A Page Turner
This is the second book in the Big Sky series. It will definitely keep you turning pages, but the end is a cliff hanger, you have to read the third book for the problems to be resolved. I loved this series though, contrasting a life of praying, believing in God, going to church, following the rules, versus an intimate knowledge and relationship with the God of the universe. Once you have experienced personally the love, comfort, peace and joy that the Father gives us through Jesus Christ, you are sorry for all you missed before. This is a precious story of learning about the God who loves us so much. P.S. It is also a delightful romance.
This is the second book in the Big Sky series. It will definitely keep you turning pages, but the end is a cliff hanger, you have to read the third book for the problems to be resolved. I loved this series though, contrasting a life of praying, believing in God, going to church, following the rules, versus an intimate knowledge and relationship with the God of the universe. Once you have experienced personally the love, comfort, peace and joy that the Father gives us through Jesus Christ, you are sorry for all you missed before. This is a precious story of learning about the God who loves us so much. P.S. It is also a delightful romance.
May 27, 2021
This was an excellent story. I can't wait until I can get the 3rd one to find out what happens. The story ends well, and if it weren't for a teaser from the last book at the end of the 2nd book, it could almost end happily ever after here. But the teaser makes the 3rd book necessary by leaving you on a cliffhanger of sorts. Poor Marianna struggled between the two men she thinks she loves, and now that struggle could change in drastic ways. It will also be very interesting to see how her strict and judging Indiana community will respond to her new relationship with God. My guess is that it won't go well, and all the struggles will push her back to Montana.
February 16, 2021
This second book in the trilogy about Mariana, a young Amish woman, explores God in ways Amish typically do not. Nicely written, engaging, and interesting!
In this book, Aaron her suitor from Indiana, surprises her by coming to visit in Montana but is in an accident on the way and breaks his leg. He’s laid up at her & her parent’s home for several weeks, during which time they get to know each other better
Ben, an Englisher, also plays a prominent role in the story.
In this book, Aaron her suitor from Indiana, surprises her by coming to visit in Montana but is in an accident on the way and breaks his leg. He’s laid up at her & her parent’s home for several weeks, during which time they get to know each other better
Ben, an Englisher, also plays a prominent role in the story.
March 19, 2021
The Saga Continues!
After reading the first book, I immediately bought the second. I just had to read more of their stories - where life was taking them; and what God was teaching them. Now I’m off to purchase the next book because I must know how it turns out with these friends I have met on the pages! These stories will capture your heart, I hope you will enjoy them as much as I am. Blessings!
After reading the first book, I immediately bought the second. I just had to read more of their stories - where life was taking them; and what God was teaching them. Now I’m off to purchase the next book because I must know how it turns out with these friends I have met on the pages! These stories will capture your heart, I hope you will enjoy them as much as I am. Blessings!
January 9, 2022
Amish don't have their own copy of God's word. If they do, it is in German & hard to understand. She sees her father reading the Bible in English & so she does so also. That & the relationship with those in Montana helps her learn & develop a personal relationship with God. When Aaron arrives, she has to decide between Ben & Aaron which is not easy. Excellent story about the struggles Marianna experiences.
May 13, 2023
Like most series, the second and third books are not as good as the first. I still love the characters in this book, but the plot is becoming a matter of which beau will Marianna choose. Her ambivalence is a little annoying.
Nevertheless I found myself turning the pages. At the end of the book, it seems Aaron Zook is the preferred suitor, but there’s a sequel. I guess I’ll have to read that one to find our the outcome. Will it be Aaron or Ben?
Nevertheless I found myself turning the pages. At the end of the book, it seems Aaron Zook is the preferred suitor, but there’s a sequel. I guess I’ll have to read that one to find our the outcome. Will it be Aaron or Ben?
January 11, 2021
Such a great series! Clean, wholesome, full of romance. I love how Mari is learning how to know God in her own way~beyond the rules of the Amish community. Ben is awesome and I’m hoping the baby’s Aaron’s so she can be with Ben. And yes! Levi has returned. Wouldn’t it be great if he moves to Montana?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2021
Oh My!! What Insight To The Amish World!!
I read many many Christian fiction books with Amish characters, but this one introduces the reader to the real world. How they think, how they respond when they find themselves in a lax community with great God fearing Englishers. What great insight this book was to me. Highly recommend it!!
I read many many Christian fiction books with Amish characters, but this one introduces the reader to the real world. How they think, how they respond when they find themselves in a lax community with great God fearing Englishers. What great insight this book was to me. Highly recommend it!!
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