Plain Proposal

Daughters of the Promise #5

by Beth Wiseman

Miriam secretly vows to follow Saul no matter what the future holds. She never thought that future might take them away from their Amish community.Miriam Raber could have her pick of any of the eligible bachelors in Lancaster County. But she only has eyes for one . . . Saul Fisher. He captured her heart years ago, and she's never looked back. Even when rumors circulate that Saul may leave their Amish community to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime apprenticeship, Miriam makes a bold she will stand by him, whether he stays or goes.Saul Fisher has experienced an inordinate amount of loss in his short life. Raising his two brothers and caring for a grieving father who privately seeks solace in the comfort of his homemade wine, Saul has kept his father's drinking from the community. But if he leaves Lancaster, the burden of secrecy will be left to his young brothers. How does he balance this with the dream that burns bright within him?As Miriam and Saul consider leaving their lives behind, God starts revealing things to Miriam that make her think twice about what it means to be a Daughter of the Promise, and what it means to make a home.Experience this love story with a surprising resolution by one of the most popular voices in Amish fiction.

Genres: Amish, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction, Romance, Christian, Fiction, Christian Romance

305 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 21, 2010

About the author

"I wish I had the time to review books and chat with you here, but my writing deadlines just don't allow it. Please like my Fans of Beth Wiseman Page on Facebook where I try to post any news and interact with readers."
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.

You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plain Proposal is book #5 of the Daughters of the Promise series. I knew before I started this that I would enjoy this Beth Wiseman book and I was right. I just love her books. Miriam Raber and Saul Fisher have admired each other for years, since first grade actually but neither had acted on it. He wanted to ask her out but since he was planning on leaving the community he didn't want to ask her out and then break her heart. She takes matters into her own hands when she initiates a conversation and his tongue has a mind of it's own when he then asks her out. They become a couple but he still worries about breaking her heart. Her Englisher cousin comes to visit for the summer after her parents divorce and they need to straighten her out after she falls in with the wrong crowd. Her parents think the Amish way of life will do it. I enjoyed reading how the cousin, Shelby went from homesick and faithless to a warm, and engaging faith filled young woman who is so at peace she wants to join the Amish faith. When it becomes know Saul's father has a drinking problem Saul doesn't want to leave home anymore because he feels the need to take care of his younger brothers. Miriam is so disappointed because she had wanted to marry Saul and live the Englisher life but now it doesn't look like it will happen. Will Miriam and Saul's relationship be able to survive this hardship? I suggest you read this delightful book and find out for yourself.
Published March 28th 2011 by Thomas Nelson (first published January 1st 2011)

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Another Good Book in this Amish Fiction Series by Beth Wiseman!!

The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Miriam and Shelby were definately my favorite especially their Cousin relationship which reminded me alot of the one i have with my Cousins Nicola and Leah.

The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Pennsylvania while reading especially when the scenery was described since my parents and i vacationed in those areas of PA a few years ago on vacation.

Overall a Good Book 5 in this Amish Fiction Series!! Can't wait to read more by Beth in the future!!

[Lorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plain Proposal by Beth Wiseman is the fifth book in the Daughter’s of the Promise series. In this book, we follow Miriam Raber, who has fallen in love with someone in her Old Order Amish community and he wants to leave the community to pursue his dream in becoming a chef. I thought this was really unusual for an Amish book because not many Amish are boys are raised to cook. Saul, the boy she has fallen in love with, however lost his mother and since there were all boys in his family he has to learn to cook to feed the family. When Miriam finds out that the rumors of Saul leaving the community are true, she decides that she will go with him because she can’t lose him. Saul later decides he can’t leave his brothers because of a problem his father has. How will it all turn out, will they stay and be baptized into the church or will they leave to pursue Saul’s dream? You have to read to find out. I liked how this all played out in the story because I was left guessing until the end about what they would do and I really thought (or maybe was hoping) it would end the other way than it ends up.

The book also focuses on Miriam’s cousin, Shelby, who comes to live with the Rabers for the summer. Shelby’s parents are divorced and Shelby has gotten into trouble and hung out with the wrong crowd so her parents decide they can’t deal with her and send her off to Amish country to live for the summer. Shelby feels like God has deserted her, but as she gets used to living in the Amish community, she finds it gives her things that the outside world never could. Will she have to go home at the end of the summer or will she finally find her way and stay with the Rabers? The story focuses on that quite a bit and Shelby relies on Miriam as much as Miriam relies on her for guidance as they become Daughters of the Promise.


I had previously read all the other books in this series and while the characters’ from the other books in the series are mentioned, I really think you can read this book without reading the other ones. I think this is because a lot of the other characters in previous books have moved to her Colorado series and this book focuses on characters from the Amish community and their family members left behind in Paradise. I left the book feeling uplifted and really liked the story. I think that I enjoyed previously books in the series more than this one, but it was still a really good story. The reader is drawn into the story and you can't put it down, as with Beth's other books.

In one part of this book we learn about someone (I can't give much more away or it will spoil this story) who wants to go visit the relatives in Colorado to tell Katie Ann something important. I wonder if we might not learn more about this in the Colorado series as it really left me hanging and wanting to know more about what they wanted to tell her. Guess I'll have to wait for the next one in the Land of Cannan series to see.

I was given an advanced copy of the book to review through Net Galley and Thomas Nelson publishing. I was not required to give a positive review but an honest opinion.

Plain Proposal is scheduled to release on March 30, 2011, however Amazon says it is in stock but may take 2-3 more days for delivery for the paperback edition. You can buy it in paperback, Kindle edition, or audio book I'd recommend it to anyone who loves Amish Fiction.

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miriam Raber has loved Saul Fisher since they were kids. She dreames of a life with Saul. When her friends dare her to go and speak to him, it sends her on a path she never thought she would take. Miriam loves God with her whole heart but will she leave the community to be with Saul?

Saul Fisher has a dream he hopes one day to fulfill. After the loss of his mother and sister he finds himself taking care of his brothers and his father who has taken to drinking his homemade wine. It leaves Saul wondering just what God's will for him really is. Should he leave the community to fulfill his dreams? Would Miriam go with him if he chose to leave?

This is a book that proves love conquers all. Beth Wiseman has done a fabulous job in the continuing "Daughter's of the Promise" series. This a book of God and Love and Family where nothing is too big to face when you have all three of these things in your life. The best part is you don't have to read the previous books in order to read Plain Proposal. I definitely recommend it!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It was a good plain read. The more I read about the Amish ways the more interested I am. Such a beautiful simple life ❤️

[Camille · Rating 3 out of 5]

Plain Proposal by Beth Wiseman


Plain Proposal is the 5th book in Beth Wiseman's series, The Daughters of the Promise.

I received a copy of Plain Proposal as an advance review copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, just an honest one.

I will also start off by saying that I have not read the first 4 books in this series, and I had no problem reading this one, therefore, I consider it a stand-alone novel, even if it is part of a larger series.

Plain Proposal follows Miriam, a young Amish girl whose cousin, Shelby, who has come to visit Miriam for the summer. Shelby's family is falling apart as her parents are going through a brutal divorce and Shelby has been pushed to the side, and then pushed out to Amish country in what Shelby considers a punishment.

Miriam has fallen hard for Saul, but the rumor on the street is that Saul has no interest in staying in the Amish community or getting baptized into the faith. Miriam cannot imagine life outside the Amish, but her heart is stuck on Saul.

Yet, there is also Jessie, a good Amish boy, who has always had a crush on Miriam. In that sense, he is what Miriam wishes for, a good Amish man ready to be baptized into the faith and settle down with a good Amish woman. But her heart just does not feel the same way about Jessie that it does about Saul.

When Shelby arrives things change. Shelby is closed off, and clearly hurting from her family problems. Her faith in God is all but gone because of everything that she has been through. She fell in with the wrong crowd and made some bad choices. Now she is in this godly community, so foreign to her with no electricity, no cell phone, no modern conveniences, and her family rarely contacts her. She feels left out, and foreign.

Yet as the title implies, there is to be a plain proposal. The question is, who gets the proposal, and do they accept?

Read Plain Proposal to find out!

I thought this was a cute book, especially with the aspect of the outside English girl who is lost coming to a strange place. I think we have all felt out of place at times, and I could really empathize with Shelby. I personally have divorced parents who had a pretty nasty divorce, and I truly empathized with Shelby in that respect. My father was not around a lot, and didn't even bother fighting my mom for custody of the kids, which on the one hand was good for us, but on the other hand it was depressing that he did not even care to try to have some custody of his kids... I truly felt Shelby's pain of feeling outside of her family.

I thought it was such a sweet book, but it really wasn't my very favorite. I just have a hard time finding it memorable. It didn't seem too unique for Amish fiction, though it was truly an enjoyable read.

If you are looking for a quick, delightful read, I recommend this book. If you are looking for unique Amish fiction, I wouldn't say this fits the bill.

3.5 out of 4 stars.

[ѦѺ™ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be. - Robert Browning

in the Old Order Amish community of Paradise, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Miriam Raber and Saul Fisher are in their rumschpringe - the running-around period when a teenager turns sixteen years old. they are allowed as much freedom as they can to experience Englisch or non-Amish life before they decide to be baptized.
ever since they can recall, they only have eyes for each other. Miriam knows that Saul would be her husband someday. Saul too loves Miriam but he has plans of leaving the community to pursue his dreams. one day, Miriam's Englisch cousin Shelby is sent to the Raber family by her divorced parents for the summer. she is welcomed by her relatives and finds everything strange yet calming to her troubled soul.
when Miriam finally learns of Saul's plans, she decides to leave with him. Shelby advises her to reconsider especially now that she herself finds the Amish life appealing.
this is the third book on the Amish i have read. honestly, i am beginning to get addicted. even though some of their beliefs and ways may be a little stern or unreasonable from an outsider's perspective, i still see men and women who:

* live simple lives and enjoy simple pursuits
* are prone to the same weaknesses or temptations as non-Amish people are
* practice their faith and stand by it

i also could not help but notice that food and its preparation is a significant part of their daily life and the book mentions this a lot.
Beth Wiseman has written another beautiful story about her beloved Amish. her characters are real in the sense that she does not hide their "sins". she weaves scenarios for each of her characters to grapple with. all of them are faced with choices that would affect their future, their families and their community.
from the first page to the last, i was drawn by the author's brilliant storytelling. how Miriam, Saul, Shelby and the rest of our protagonists managed to resolve these challenges makes for a fast-paced read.
Plain Proposal is touching, poignant and uplifting. this is a must read for those who enjoy Amish fiction and a great introduction for those who are curious about it. a glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch terms and mouth-watering Amish recipes are included.
one more thing, there is nothing preachy about the book. for me, this makes it all the more compelling and available for everyone regardless of race or creed.

Disclosure of Material Connection: i received a copy of Plain Proposal from Thomas Nelson through BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program.i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

[Tiffany Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miriam Raber could have her pick of any of the eligible bachelors in their Amish community. But, Saul Fisher captured her eye and her heart years ago and she hasn't looked back since. Miriam has never considered that her future could include leaving the Amish community and their way of life but when rumors that Saul plans to leave begin circulating, she secretly vows to stand by him whether he stays or goes. Saul has been offered a once in a lifetime apprenticeship in his dream career field but he'd have to go to Pittsburgh if he wants to take it. He knew he shouldn't date Miriam when he plans on leaving but he can't bring himself to stay away. Saul has experienced more than his fair share of loss. After the death of his mother and sister, his father began to seek comfort in homemade wine. It's fallen on Saul's shoulders to take care of the farm, run the household, take care of his little brothers, and keep his father's secret alcohol problem a secret from their tight-knit community. But, it's started looking like their father may be gaining ground and be able to care for his two younger sons. But, how can Saul leave and put the burden of keeping their father's secret squarely on his younger brothers' shoulders? Is his father really going to be able to fully be a father again, enough that Saul can safely leave them? And can Saul really take that risk? Then, there are his growing feelings for Miriam. Can he' really leave her or ask her to leave all she knows? As God reveals his plans for Miriam, she begins to think about what it really means to be a Daughter of the Promise and what it means to make a home.

I really enjoyed this one. I thought Saul and Miriam were perfect for each other. Saul, especially, deserved some happiness after having had to have grown up and been the man of the house far younger than he should have. But, he was used to putting his family and others before himself. Despite this, he had no resentments or bitterness towards his situation. He even felt guilty for wanting to follow his dreams. Miriam was good for him, and they balanced each other well. I know it was hard for her family to even think that she may leave the community. I also liked Miriam's cousin, Shelby. She learned so much as she lived with the Rabers and I loved seeing her get to know what it's like to really have family looking out for her and come back to her faith, becoming a Daughter of the Promise, herself. This really was the sweetest story and I enjoyed getting to know the new characters introduced in this book and getting to know some of the characters that had only had brief mentions in the previous books. It was also good to see what had happened in the lives of favorite characters from the previous books. I know there's only one more book in the series but I've really enjoyed this one. Beth Wiseman did a wonderful job with the stories and creating characters that you can't help but love.

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet, easy Amish romance. My rating 4.25.

Miriam Raber, at eighteen, is a lovely young woman who hasn’t dated in her Amish community as she is waiting for the right boy. She has believed for years that Saul Fisher is the one for her. This troubles her mother as it is well known that Saul has had a couple of rumbles and now there are rumors that he has plans to leave the community. Why can’t Miriam be interested in Jesse who is interested in her? Jesse is handsome, kind, hardworking and an excellent choice for a partner.

Miriam is looking forward to her first outing with Saul when she learns that her cousin, Shelby, has arrived from the city. Shelby is disgruntled and wary after suffering through her parents’ divorce and getting herself into a bit of trouble which has resulted in her being ‘sent away’ to her Amish cousins. The Amish farm is a culture shock for Shelby and Miriam tries her best to make her feel welcome.

Saul cares for Miriam and wants the chance to spend time with her even though he knows he shouldn’t. He has dreams that will take him to the city if only things remain smooth at his home so he can comfortably leave his younger brothers with their father. But their father is still having struggles after the death of Saul’s mother and sister. Saul is torn between protecting his family, wanting to be with Miriam and pursuing his dream.

Miriam believes that she is willing to be with Saul no matter where he goes but she doesn’t understand his moods as he seems to be pushing her away. She doesn’t yet know the extent of his dreams or his home problems. Will she still be supportive when she learns the full truth?

Initially Miriam’s mother is judgmental of Saul and later misjudges Shelby for influencing Miriam. Later her father becomes controlling as he fears Miriam may choose to leave the community.

Miriam’s parents are walking a fine line between trying to hold on to their beloved daughter and allowing her freedom to make her own decisions. Saul is hiding secrets at home rather than seeking help from others in their community. Shelby is finding her way to rebuilding her relationship with God as she discovers benefits and peace in the simple lifestyle of the Amish community.

This is a sweet story with likeable characters. It reads quickly and easily and the conflicts create a good plot. I really like the premise of what it means to be “a Daughter of the Promise”. There are several faith issues reflected and there are good discussion questions at the end. There are also some yummy recipes. (I’m eager for my hubby to make the Overnight Blueberry French Toast.) I recommend this to readers who enjoy Amish romances.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

To say that I'm a huge fan of Beth Wiseman would be the understatement of the year. I just cannot get enough of her books! Her books all have simple Amish storylines, but there's something about them that draws me in every single time.

Now, I'm a huge fan of Amish fiction, in general, and have been since Beverly Lewis' first book. I have learned so much about their lifestyle, their beliefs, and their quiet strengths. But the way those characteristics are displayed in a Beth Wiseman book put her in a league of her own. In her last book in this series, I learned that the Amish don't believe in "ministering" to other people, but instead, choose to live their lives as a Christian example to others. That same theme carried over into this book, and blended into the story beautifully. While it's not something that I believe in wholeheartedly, I do understand it from their point of view.

Out of this series, this was the first book that explored one of their own leaving, and possibly choosing an English lifestyle. I was happy to see that change of pace for this series, as there have been a handful of people that have come from the outside world into this strict Amish world. I truthfully didn't know what Saul and Miriam would choose, and I admit that I got frustrated a few times with Miriam's mother and her meddling.

The only thing that didn't seem to fit well with this book was at the very beginning. Unless I completely missed it, Shelby's age was not mentioned until I had gotten well into the story. Initially, her character seemed rather juvenile, and her journal writings didn't seem to match her age of 19. However, as the book progressed, more of her past was revealed, and I knew she couldn't have been the 14- or 15-year-old girl that I first pictured her being.

If you've not read any of the books in the Daughters of the Promise Series, I would highly recommend that you read all 5 of them in order. It's not an absolute must, but it will definitely make for a better reading experience. Beth is also in the middle of a spin-off to this series which is set in Colorado called The Land of Canaan Series. It's first book, Seek Me With All Your Heart, falls right into place between books 4 and 5 of this series, and should be read before reading Plain Proposal, in my opinion.

Confusing enough for ya? It's well worth it, I promise. :o)

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars


Miriam has loved Saul from a far as long as she can remember. Finally she get the courage up and talks to him and she soon finds herself spending time with him and seeing a future together. Though there is rumors saying Saul is going to leave the community in the fall. Will Miriam follow him if he does? Saul has loved Miriam for years but knowing he plans to leave the community he has stayed away from her. But when she starts talking to him he finds himself not being able to stay away. Saul is also dealing with some issues with his dad and fears his dreams of leaving will be shattered. Will these two young people find love with all these obstacle or will they keep them apart?

This is the fifth book in the series and the first one I have read of it. I am always a little nervous reading the last book of a series with out reading any of the ones before it but it ended up not being an issue. At first I was not sure if I was going to like the story line but I soon found myself enjoying it. I did feel like the characters should have been older as they are only 18 and felt more like early 20’s to me with the issues they where dealing with. I know Amish tend to marry younger but I felt the maturity was very high considering the age. The subject of the Amish leaving the community was also one I have not read about a lot(from this angle) and found it interesting. I admit I was kind of surprised how easy it seemed to be in this book. Granted it’s dealing with young adults not yet baptized into the church but I thought it might be a little more difficult then it seemed. There is also a secondary story line dealing with Miriam’s cousin Shelby and I enjoyed this character and she found God and in the end happiness. I almost wish she had a book of her own!

Over all I really enjoyed this book and this book lays the corner stone blocks for the next series the author is writing and I am looking for ward to The Land of Canaan books. I love Beth Wiseman’s writing style and how her characters are so well developed and real. I hope to go back and read the first four books of this series. One of my favorite Amish Fiction writers!

http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2011/0...

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is an all time favorite!!! Love all of these

[Drebbles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miriam Raber has been in love with Saul Fisher her whole life and hopes to marry him one day. Saul is in love with Miriam but longs to be a chef, which would mean leaving the Amish community. He has a job offer, but he's not sure he can leave his younger brothers alone with their alcoholic father. Miriam's Englisch cousin Shelby has her own set of problems - she fell in with the wrong crowd and her parents sent her to live with her Amish relatives in the hopes to set her on the right path. Miriam, Saul, and Shelby all have different issues that they pray God will help them with - and He does in surprising ways.

"Plain Proposal" is the fifth book in Beth Wiseman's "Daughters of the Promise" series and it may be the best one yet. Readers new to the series will enjoy reading about Miriam and Saul as they struggle with trying to do the right thing for not only themselves but their families. Miriam seems to know exactly what she wants and it is interesting to read as she begins to realize God may have other plans for her. Saul's story is heartbreaking, not only because he longs for things the Amish world can't give him but his struggles with his father's alcoholism (this storyline reveals a great deal about the Amish people who rally behind each other in times of need yet can be judgmental at other times). Shelby's storyline was interesting, but I felt that her past life could have been developed more - she seems to adapt far too quickly to the Amish lifestyle. While newcomers can enjoy this book as a stand-alone book, fans of the series will be happy to revisit characters from previous books. Without giving anything away, I'll just say the book took some unexpected (and at times sad) twists and turns. Nothing in the book, including the ending, happened the way I thought it would. One event in particular seems to set up a plot line for future books and I look forward to see what happens in both the "Daughters of Promise" and "Land of Canaan" series.

"Plain Proposal" is another excellent book by Beth Wiseman.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: PLAIN PROPOSAL
Author: Beth Wiseman
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
March 2011
ISBN: 978-1-59554-850-4
Genre: Inspirational/Amish

Miriam Raber’s cousin Shelby’s parents are going through a divorce, and Shelby has been sent to live with Miriam and her family for awhile. Shelby is confused and hurting, and Miriam longs to reach out to her—but that the same time, Saul Fisher has finally asked Miriam out. Saul is the man that Miriam has loved ever since they were little.

Saul feels guilty about dating Miriam as she is a solid Amish woman and he is planning on leaving the Amish behind and pursuing his dream to be a chef. But he’s dreamed of dating Miriam, and wants to enjoy her being his girl for the summer.

Miriam has heard the rumors that Saul is leaving, but she doesn’t really believe it. After all, usually a man will stay Amish when he falls in love with an Amish woman. But—what if he doesn’t? Will she be willing to leave with him? Or will he stay true to his faith and stay for Miriam?

PLAIN PROPOSAL is the fifth book in Ms. Wiseman’s A Daughter of the Promise series, but it easily stands alone. I enjoyed getting to know Miriam as well as Saul. My heart really broke for Saul, his life is truly hard. There is also a secondary romance in the story.

PLAIN PROPOSAL isn’t my favorite of Ms. Wiseman’s books. There were many things about this book that I didn’t like. But the story is well written, and I really did like Saul and Miriam. I also liked Shelby and another secondary Amish character, Jesse. Recipes, discussion questions, and an excerpt from Seek Me With All Your Heart (which was a great book) is included at the end. I'm giving this 4 stars only because 3.5 isn't an option. $14.99. 296 pages.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plain Proposal is the fifth book in the series "The Daughters of the Promise" by Beth Wiseman. The book follows the story of Miriam Raber, who has long been in love with Saul Fisher. However, Saul dreams of leaving the Old Order Amish community to fulfill his own dreams. Miriam must question herself if leaving with him is what she wants for herself or if she only desires to change so that she doesn't lose him. Her parents have to learn the lesson of trusting God's will for their child's life over their own desires and how they must come to depend on the hope that they have raised their daughter right and that she will not depart from God, even if she leaves the order.

The story also introduces us to Shelby, a young girl and the Raber's cousin that has been raised English but has found herself in the heart of the Amish community after making bad decisions with her life. I found myself rooting for Shelby from very early on and hoping she would find peace, perhaps even stick around for a future book. She is a good girl despite making some serious mistakes and finds herself drawn to a good Amish boy, Jesse. I have a feeling we'll be seeing more of Shelby in a future "Daughters of the Promise" installment.

We also see the human nature in these characters and how even the best of us can stumble and have our times when we need to seek help from our friends, family and God. These are characters you can get to know. If you started with book one, "Plain Perfect", you should already be familiar with the community and reading will make you feel as you've just visited with an old friend. As always, reading another installment by Beth Wiseman was a pleasure. I look forward to another book in the series.

[Paula-O · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each Daughters of the Promise novel focuses on a woman's journey into an Amish community where she discovers new meaning to the words of Faith~Hope~and Love.

This last book in the series tells of Miriam and Saul...
From the time they are children they seem to notice one another , he thinking how she is such a Good girl and pretty too, she thinking how brave and strong this young boy is. over the years she is captivated and knows in her heart when grown this boy she will marry.
when her mother hears stories around the community of his getting into trouble a few times she hardens her heart and does not want her daughter anywhere near Saul Fisher.
A cousin Shelby comes to live with Miriam's family for the summer after she had got into trouble in her life when her parents divorce. At first she is unhappy living with these people who are so different with no electricity and the way they dress so "Ugly" but over time she finds that it is a peaceful place and she sees how supportive the family is and the love that they share makes her want to be a part of who and what they are. she and Miriam become like sisters and share many moments of helping one another become stronger.
You will want to read this last book and find out how wrong Miriam's Mom has been about the Fisher family and also she learns a few things about Shelby and Miriam as this story comes to a conclusion.
Thanks Beth Wiseman for a series that has warmed my heart as each young woman finds a completion in her life and knows that all roads lead to and from God being the center of our lives...helping us find Faith~Hope ~and Love......

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miriam and Saul are made for each other. But the road they travel is a rocky one. Miriam has always been ready to be a godly wife and mother, never thinking she will leave the community where she belongs. Saul has lead a double life. On one hand he has been a wonderful member of the community, and on the other he is a man with multiple family problems. The loss of his mother has led his father to drink, something Saul has tried to keep out of the public square. But, he doesn't think he can take it anymore. But, could Saul really leave? If he leaves, how will his brothers handle his father and the drinking? While she vows to stay by his side, Miriam finds that God shows her more of Himself and His plan for her life. Their story takes many twists and turns. Will they go away together, stay, or go their separate ways? Beth Wiseman answers these questions and more.

I love Amish fiction, and Beth Wiseman is one of the best! Her characters and story become real and almost impossible to put down because she takes the time to do her research. This book is great for individuals and groups alike. Many topics can be explored in discussion such as: alcoholism, family grief, depths of love, forgiveness, and commitment. I received a copy through Net Galley and thank them for the opportunity.

[Norma · Rating 4 out of 5]

As you have probably noticed, I have been reading more and more Amish fiction. There is a reason for this, it is good!! So far all the books that I have read have been extremely enjoyable and this was definitely one of them.

I know that this is a series book and I have not read the other books before this, but it was still great. I didn’t feel lost and the characters were very much alive to me.

I like the fact that some of the situations that Miriam was going through any woman can experience. How many times in our lives have we been in relationships and either our partner wants us to change to suit their whims, they need to choose not to change themselves, or you walk away from each other. Miriam goes through this exact situation. Its hard when you have to make such a life altering decision. And it should never be taken lightly.

Not only do we see this dilemma that Miriam is going through, but several other family dynamics that cause friction as well.

This was a well written book and I will be definitely getting the earlier books in the series.

In conjunction with the Wakela's World Disclosure Statement, I received a product in order to enable my review. No other compensation has been received. My statements are an honest account of my experience with the brand. The opinions stated here are mine alone.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

18 year old Miriam is planning to be baptized and continue in her Amish Faith in Lancaster County surrounded by her loving family and friends. Miriam's English cousin Shelby is sent away from her home in TX to live with Miriam and her family. Hoping the time away from her troubled friends and backlash of her parents divorse. Shelby feels abandoned and unloved by all, especially God. Miriam and Shelby become like sisters sharing in their dreams for the future. Miriam secretly is in love with Saul, a 'bad boy' of the Amish who is more than likely leaving the faith. Miriams mother does all she can to prevent Miriam from falling for Saul, feeling Shelby is encouraging the union.
As feelings and truths come out in the open the story unveils true character and family bonds grounded in God. The characters grow and develop while giving us a glimpse into the Amish life.

A darling love story that I wouldn't hesitate for a teen or young girl to read as well as adults who are smitten with the Amish love stories.
This was the 5th in the series of the Daughter of the Promise. I haven't read the previous ones and this book was able to stand on it's own.
I received this book as a Goodreads first read.

[Rachel Brand · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first three books in the series, but the last two haven't been quite compelling. Perhaps it's the focus on younger characters, still in their teenage years? Although Miriam and Saul were talking about mature issues like getting married and starting careers, they dealt with them in very immature ways. Some parts of this book felt too simplistic--like Shelby settling into the Amish lifestyle so easily after just two months.

I did like the message about being able to find peace and a strong faith wherever you are, Amish or English, and I appreciated that they dealt with the issue of Saul's family in a realistic manner. I loved that Saul wanted to be a chef--it was so nice to see an Amish novel breaking down traditional gender constructs!

Honestly, this was a sweet romance with some interesting conflicts, but it didn't blow me away like some of Beth's other novels have. Saul was a well-developed character, but Miriam didn't seem to develop any interests (beside marrying Saul) until the very end of the book. I like a heroine with a bit more spunk who is interested in something besides the hero!

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think its important to start this review by warning readers that this book assumes you've read at least some of the books from the Land of Canaan series. So in the first 4 chapters I'd say, its going to spoil some of what happens in that series and I don't believe I'm alone when I say I hate spoilers. So I am now going to read the Land of Canaan series, but I fear I won't enjoy it because the surprise is gone. I write this only to keep someone else from having their surprises ruined.


In review of the actual book itself, I felt it delightful in a lot of ways. Just the title of the series "daughters of the promise" brings peace and I admit my relationship with God has improved because of this series and because the title of the series evokes so much hope and well promise.

I like Miriam and Saul, did not care for Rebecca, she was extremely judgmental and that is something you will rarely find in the Amish. I did not like Shelby in the beginning, her little catchphrase "you're kidding, right" was annoying and I wanted to slap her. She evened out toward the end. I hated her parents, there are some people out there who should not have kids, just saying.

[Tonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plain Proposal was anything but plain. Beth Wiseman is an expert writer in that she knows what readers really want in a book. Something that makes us think, doesn't use foul language and leads us more and more toward our Lord and Savior. She delivers every time.

In this next part of the series, Shelby is an "English" young woman who has had a troubled life since her parents divorce and is being sent to live with her Amish relatives. Miriam and her parents are not sure what to expect when Shelby arrives. Will she be a good influence on Miriam or a negative one?

Miriam has been in love with Saul Fisher for as long as she can remember. What joy to find out maybe he feels the same way. However, Saul wants to leave the only way they have ever known to live and go to live amongst the "English".

Lots of other little sideline stories going on in here as well, Beth weaves everything so well you just gobble up the story, and before you know it it is over way too soon!

(ebook received for free by publisher)

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had some issues. My biggest complaint was that the author's biggest weakness seemed to be dialog. Sometimes the characters were kind of stiff and other times they were clearly saying something only to explain a point to the reader. And the few times kids appeared, they were written with really poor grammar, which made no sense because none of the adults around them talked like that. I am fairly ignorant of Amish culture and took it on faith that the author did enough research. However, this assumption went out the window when an 18-year-old with only an eighth-grade education was given a job as a teacher at a preschool for children with special needs because of a "moving letter." At this point, I decided that the author wasn't actualy TRYING to make the book realistic.

But despite what I considered shortcomings, I finished the book pretty quickly. I have a fair amount of demands on my time and when I read a book quickly, it means that I have been making time for it. The overall story pulled me in and made me want to read it. That's the best quality in a book.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miriam Raber takes a bold stand when her Amish boyfriend considers leaving their community. "Whatever he chooses, I'm going with him."

Miriam Raber enjoys life in her Old Order Amish community, and she is hopeful that Saul Fisher will propose to her soon. But when Saul starts talking about leaving the only world either of them has ever known, Miriam imagines what her life might look like as an Englischer. One thing she knows for certain, she loves Saul and feels he's the one God has chosen for her. But Saul's indecision has come at an inconvenient time as Miriam is noticing advances from Jesse Dienner, a man she went to school with, who is committed to marry and live his life in the Old Order community.

Complicating matters is the arrival of Miriam's cousin, Shelby, a worldly Englisch girl sent to live with Miriam's family following trouble back home.

Who will Miriam choose a life with, and who will choose to stay in the Old Order Amish community?
I do still enjoy the Amish books, the review written by someone else above sums up the book.

[Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Comments:
The summary above makes it sound like Miriam's romance in the focus of this book; yet in many ways it is not. Beth Wiseman also explores the relationship between Miriam and her family, between Miriam and her cousin and between Saul and his family. As Amish fiction goes, it is a bit on the religious side and features one of the characters finding God in her life, but I wouldn't call it a preachy book. I question how realistic it is, but since I've never met any real Amish, I'll leave it at wondering.

It is clearly a book about the Amish yet I think a lot of young people struggle with deciding how much they are willing to change for a potential spouse--and how much it is reasonable for a potential spouse to change for them.

I enjoyed this book and think if you like Amish fiction, you'll like this one too. Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for providing a review copy via NetGalley. I was not obligated to write any review, much less a positive one. Grade: B.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is my favourite of the 'Daughters of the Promise' series. I really enjoyed getting to know Miriam and Shelby, and Rebecca a little more, as well as more of the characters from their community.
I was surprised by one thing though, and wonder if it was accurate. A shunned Amish person was buried in an Amish ceremony. I guess I thought that if you were shunned, you would not have an Amish funeral? Interesting, to say the least!
This book also really made me want to read the 'Land of Canaan' series and find out what has been happening with Lilian and Samuel and their family in Colorado!

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a mini ‘Books For Christian Girls’ review. It is not a full content review and will not receive one. These mini-reviews are years old and just for clarity on the rating the book received on Goodreads.


1/26/2014-
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Main Content-
*Zeb has a drinking problem.
*Kisses; Touches, Embraces, & Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); Love, falling in love, & the emotions.

[Jc · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all of these books. Feel like I know everyone in the community.

[Tina Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

took me sometime to get into the book but "WOW" what an ending.

overall, Wonderful

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Good!