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Daughters of Caleb Bender #2
The Captive Heart
More Danger, Adventure, Romance in Dale Cramer's Next Installment!
Bandit troubles intensify as Caleb Bender's family tries to settle into their new life in 1920s Paradise Valley. When El Pantera kidnaps Rachel and leaves her brother, Aaron, for dead, Jake Weaver and the Mexican native Domingo pursue the bandit leader to his mountain stronghold in a hopeless rescue attempt. Jake and Domingo manage to escape with Rachel, with the bandits hot on their trail. In a desperate attempt to avoid recapture, Domingo puts himself squarely in harm's way, giving Jake and Rachel time to get away. This is not the quiet life Caleb Bender envisioned when he led his family out of Ohio. What is a father to make of his daughter's obvious affection for a man outside the fold? And how will a pacifist Amishman like Caleb respond to the events that threaten his family and their way of life?
Bandit troubles intensify as Caleb Bender's family tries to settle into their new life in 1920s Paradise Valley. When El Pantera kidnaps Rachel and leaves her brother, Aaron, for dead, Jake Weaver and the Mexican native Domingo pursue the bandit leader to his mountain stronghold in a hopeless rescue attempt. Jake and Domingo manage to escape with Rachel, with the bandits hot on their trail. In a desperate attempt to avoid recapture, Domingo puts himself squarely in harm's way, giving Jake and Rachel time to get away. This is not the quiet life Caleb Bender envisioned when he led his family out of Ohio. What is a father to make of his daughter's obvious affection for a man outside the fold? And how will a pacifist Amishman like Caleb respond to the events that threaten his family and their way of life?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
82 people are currently reading
988 people want to read
About the author
Dale Cramer
5 books122 followersAbout Dale
Dale Cramer was the second of four children born to a runaway Amishman turned soldier and a south Georgia sharecropper’s daughter. His formative years were divided between far-flung military bases, but he inherited his mother’s sense of place—
"I remember knee-deep snow in the Maryland woods, chasing horned toads in El Paso, playing soccer in Mainz, and the way German shopkeepers and hausfraus fussed over us kids. But when I picture that sun-rippled macadam road leading up to my granparents’ house in Georgia I can still feel the anticipation. That was home."
True to his Amish ancestry, Dale skipped college and went to work with his hands, earning a living as an electrician, but he had early acquired the habit of reading widely and voraciously. The thought was never far from his mind that someday he would like to write books. In 1975 he married his childhood friend, Pam Crowe, and in the early years of their marriage the two of them enjoyed traveling, camping, water skiing, scuba-diving, snow skiing and flying sailplanes. They eventually bought a piece of land and built a home out in the country south of Atlanta. In 1990 their first child, Ty, was born. Dusty arrived two years later. Unlike their parents (Pam was an Army brat as well) Ty and Dusty have lived in the same place all their lives.
At the age of forty, with two toddlers in the house, Dale began to ask deeper questions of himself. He’d attended church all his life but never felt a real sense of God’s presence. After months of study and meditation he began to feel that he was being called to do something, but he had no idea what it was. He finally came to understand that genuine commitment means no reservations, that the answer to the question ‘Will you do it?’ is not ‘What is it?’ The only acceptable response is ‘Yes—whatever the question, the answer is yes.’ That deeper level of commitment brought a very real sense of God’s presence and a sense of direction in Dale’s life, though he still did not know the direction.
After keeping the boys in daycare for a year Pam and Dale decided to make whatever sacrifices were necessary to provide a full-time home. The decision altered their lives in ways neither of them could have anticipated when Dale drew the short straw and became a stay-at-home dad—
"A baby is a lot like an old truck— it leaks and makes weird noises. Clean up the mess, top off the fluids, and the noises usually stop."
He took on small construction projects at night to help make ends meet— "and to preserve the remainder of my sanity," he says. While building an office in the basement of a communications consultant, a debate over labor/management relations turned into an article on mutualism which found its way into an international business magazine. It was Dale’s first published article, and he liked the feel of it. He bought books, studied technique, and began participating in an online writers’ forum, writing during the boys’ naps and after they went to bed at night. Before long he was publishing short stories in literary magazines and thinking about writing a book.
Three storylines vied for Dale’s attention when he finally decided to write a novel. His first two choices were commercially viable secular stories, and a distant third appeared to be some kind of Christian saga about a broken-down biker. The process of determining which novel to write was settled by a remarkable encounter with his youngest son, a lost set of keys, and God.* His sense of direction was suddenly clarified. In 1997, Dale began work on Sutter’s Cross, which was eventually published in 2003.
His second novel, Bad Ground (July 2004), while it is not autobiographical, contains a great deal of material drawn from his own experience as a construction electrician. The industrial setting is based on a real water treatment plant on the southside of Atlanta. One of the main characters, who has been
Dale Cramer was the second of four children born to a runaway Amishman turned soldier and a south Georgia sharecropper’s daughter. His formative years were divided between far-flung military bases, but he inherited his mother’s sense of place—
"I remember knee-deep snow in the Maryland woods, chasing horned toads in El Paso, playing soccer in Mainz, and the way German shopkeepers and hausfraus fussed over us kids. But when I picture that sun-rippled macadam road leading up to my granparents’ house in Georgia I can still feel the anticipation. That was home."
True to his Amish ancestry, Dale skipped college and went to work with his hands, earning a living as an electrician, but he had early acquired the habit of reading widely and voraciously. The thought was never far from his mind that someday he would like to write books. In 1975 he married his childhood friend, Pam Crowe, and in the early years of their marriage the two of them enjoyed traveling, camping, water skiing, scuba-diving, snow skiing and flying sailplanes. They eventually bought a piece of land and built a home out in the country south of Atlanta. In 1990 their first child, Ty, was born. Dusty arrived two years later. Unlike their parents (Pam was an Army brat as well) Ty and Dusty have lived in the same place all their lives.
At the age of forty, with two toddlers in the house, Dale began to ask deeper questions of himself. He’d attended church all his life but never felt a real sense of God’s presence. After months of study and meditation he began to feel that he was being called to do something, but he had no idea what it was. He finally came to understand that genuine commitment means no reservations, that the answer to the question ‘Will you do it?’ is not ‘What is it?’ The only acceptable response is ‘Yes—whatever the question, the answer is yes.’ That deeper level of commitment brought a very real sense of God’s presence and a sense of direction in Dale’s life, though he still did not know the direction.
After keeping the boys in daycare for a year Pam and Dale decided to make whatever sacrifices were necessary to provide a full-time home. The decision altered their lives in ways neither of them could have anticipated when Dale drew the short straw and became a stay-at-home dad—
"A baby is a lot like an old truck— it leaks and makes weird noises. Clean up the mess, top off the fluids, and the noises usually stop."
He took on small construction projects at night to help make ends meet— "and to preserve the remainder of my sanity," he says. While building an office in the basement of a communications consultant, a debate over labor/management relations turned into an article on mutualism which found its way into an international business magazine. It was Dale’s first published article, and he liked the feel of it. He bought books, studied technique, and began participating in an online writers’ forum, writing during the boys’ naps and after they went to bed at night. Before long he was publishing short stories in literary magazines and thinking about writing a book.
Three storylines vied for Dale’s attention when he finally decided to write a novel. His first two choices were commercially viable secular stories, and a distant third appeared to be some kind of Christian saga about a broken-down biker. The process of determining which novel to write was settled by a remarkable encounter with his youngest son, a lost set of keys, and God.* His sense of direction was suddenly clarified. In 1997, Dale began work on Sutter’s Cross, which was eventually published in 2003.
His second novel, Bad Ground (July 2004), while it is not autobiographical, contains a great deal of material drawn from his own experience as a construction electrician. The industrial setting is based on a real water treatment plant on the southside of Atlanta. One of the main characters, who has been
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
April 5, 2019
The Captive Heart, part 2 of "The Daughters of Caleb Bender," did not disappoint. Indeed the suspense was heightened, and was almost unbearable at times. Listening to the audio version made it difficult to shut it down when my daily commute was over.
I won't go into the story details, just mention that the author is a fantastic writer and that this story is based on his own family history, so it is very authentic. It definitely moves outside the usual genre of Amish fiction. These characters struggle with living out their peaceful faith in the midst of a hostile environment.
This is an amazing story and I can't wait to start part 3 and get to the conclusion of this series.
I won't go into the story details, just mention that the author is a fantastic writer and that this story is based on his own family history, so it is very authentic. It definitely moves outside the usual genre of Amish fiction. These characters struggle with living out their peaceful faith in the midst of a hostile environment.
This is an amazing story and I can't wait to start part 3 and get to the conclusion of this series.
September 13, 2021
My Review
Wow, Dale Cramer gives a different twist on Amish fiction in this series. In this second book of the series, more Ohio Amish join Caleb and his family at the newly Amish community in Mexico. As the Amish ways are, they all helped each other out in building houses and barns, and fields to plant food and ways of making money.
The one thing that is different for me with Amish fiction is the dangers this community of Amish people faced because of the new area they were in. They had to deal with bandits that didn’t think twice about pulling a gun on any of them. And this was especially difficult because of the Amish ways of not fighting back. Mexican friend Domingo, who had been helping Caleb since being in Mexico was a tremendous help since he knows the people of the area and their ways, but these Amish still faces difficulty, hurt, heartbreak and loss.
I highly recommend this book for Amish fiction lovers, as well as those liking Christian fiction, or just a good ole read. You will not be disappointed in this book, or this series by Dale Cramer
A copy of this book was provided by Bethany House for me to read and review. The opinions in this review are mine only, and my honest opinion.
Wow, Dale Cramer gives a different twist on Amish fiction in this series. In this second book of the series, more Ohio Amish join Caleb and his family at the newly Amish community in Mexico. As the Amish ways are, they all helped each other out in building houses and barns, and fields to plant food and ways of making money.
The one thing that is different for me with Amish fiction is the dangers this community of Amish people faced because of the new area they were in. They had to deal with bandits that didn’t think twice about pulling a gun on any of them. And this was especially difficult because of the Amish ways of not fighting back. Mexican friend Domingo, who had been helping Caleb since being in Mexico was a tremendous help since he knows the people of the area and their ways, but these Amish still faces difficulty, hurt, heartbreak and loss.
I highly recommend this book for Amish fiction lovers, as well as those liking Christian fiction, or just a good ole read. You will not be disappointed in this book, or this series by Dale Cramer
A copy of this book was provided by Bethany House for me to read and review. The opinions in this review are mine only, and my honest opinion.
October 30, 2019
First Amish book by male author. Very interesting but a bit violent.
December 31, 2011
Story Description:
Ravaged by disease, preyed upon by ruthless bandits, the Bender family’s second year in Mexico has taken a grievous turn. Faced with impossible choices, the expatriate Amish discover, more than ever before, what it means to live by faith and not by sight.
But it’s Miriam who must make the hardest choice as her heart takes her on a new and dangerous course. Domingo. “He is gentle,” his sister said, “until someone he loves is threatened.” Is Miriam that someone?
“Cualnezqui,” he often calls her – the Nahuatl word for Beautiful one. The chiseled native has proven himself a man of principle, grace, and power. Yet is he the pearl of great price for whom Miriam would sacrifice everything, or is he merely a friend? Tormented by conflicting emotions, she’s haunted by vivid dreams: Dressed in the coarse cotton pants and shirt of a peasant, she stands on the precipice of a sun-washed ridge searching desperately for Domingo. Domingo the fierce. Domingo the protector. Domingo the forbidden.
This epic story was inspired by actual events!
My Review:
I stayed up all night and read this in one sitting I was totally riveted to the story of the Amish Bender family who were spending their second year in Mexico. Fighting off bandits and disease they sacrificed, hoped, stayed steadfast and prayed. Their biggest challenge was learning to live by faith.
Miriam, one of their daughters was in love with Domingo, a strikingly handsome native who was not Amish and if Miriam ever married him she would be shunned by her family. Domingo was a gentle man until someone he loved was threatened and when that very thing happens he goes to all lengths to save the one he too secretly loves.
The vividness of the imagery in the novel made me feel as though I was there, stomping through the dusty ground, feeling the grit in my nose and eyes. I could see the mountains, the crops, the buildings and felt as if I were right there.
One particular attack by bandits left Miriam’s sister Rachel kidnapped, her brother Aaron stabbed and left for dead, and simple-minded Ada was left to care for the baby. Ada was like a baby herself even though she was a grown woman. What she went through to find her way home toting a 30 pound child was truly engrossing, I couldn’t read fast enough. Staggering in the pitch dark, not knowing where she might fall off the edge of a cliff she walked, crawled and felt her way along the open expanse. Once surrounded by a pack of coyotes her only weapon was a harmonica the child had in his pocket. Blowing loud notes only scared them off for so long.
This is one of the best novels I’ve read this year and would highly recommend it to everyone!
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
Ravaged by disease, preyed upon by ruthless bandits, the Bender family’s second year in Mexico has taken a grievous turn. Faced with impossible choices, the expatriate Amish discover, more than ever before, what it means to live by faith and not by sight.
But it’s Miriam who must make the hardest choice as her heart takes her on a new and dangerous course. Domingo. “He is gentle,” his sister said, “until someone he loves is threatened.” Is Miriam that someone?
“Cualnezqui,” he often calls her – the Nahuatl word for Beautiful one. The chiseled native has proven himself a man of principle, grace, and power. Yet is he the pearl of great price for whom Miriam would sacrifice everything, or is he merely a friend? Tormented by conflicting emotions, she’s haunted by vivid dreams: Dressed in the coarse cotton pants and shirt of a peasant, she stands on the precipice of a sun-washed ridge searching desperately for Domingo. Domingo the fierce. Domingo the protector. Domingo the forbidden.
This epic story was inspired by actual events!
My Review:
I stayed up all night and read this in one sitting I was totally riveted to the story of the Amish Bender family who were spending their second year in Mexico. Fighting off bandits and disease they sacrificed, hoped, stayed steadfast and prayed. Their biggest challenge was learning to live by faith.
Miriam, one of their daughters was in love with Domingo, a strikingly handsome native who was not Amish and if Miriam ever married him she would be shunned by her family. Domingo was a gentle man until someone he loved was threatened and when that very thing happens he goes to all lengths to save the one he too secretly loves.
The vividness of the imagery in the novel made me feel as though I was there, stomping through the dusty ground, feeling the grit in my nose and eyes. I could see the mountains, the crops, the buildings and felt as if I were right there.
One particular attack by bandits left Miriam’s sister Rachel kidnapped, her brother Aaron stabbed and left for dead, and simple-minded Ada was left to care for the baby. Ada was like a baby herself even though she was a grown woman. What she went through to find her way home toting a 30 pound child was truly engrossing, I couldn’t read fast enough. Staggering in the pitch dark, not knowing where she might fall off the edge of a cliff she walked, crawled and felt her way along the open expanse. Once surrounded by a pack of coyotes her only weapon was a harmonica the child had in his pocket. Blowing loud notes only scared them off for so long.
This is one of the best novels I’ve read this year and would highly recommend it to everyone!
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
June 1, 2012
The Bender family has survived a year in the wild Paradise Valley in Mexico. Now, joined by others of their faith who have made the long journey in search of religious freedom, they hope for a peace which is not to be found.
Miriam finds herself falling in love with Domingo, their hired hand. Not Amish and not even Christian, she knows that her father will never approve of her relationship with him. She attempts to find happiness with an Amish man, but her heart belongs to someone else.
When Rachel and her brother Aaron are attacked returning home from a trip, Rachel is kidnapped and Aaron left for dead. Jake and Domingo go after El Pantera and after rescuing Rachel, Domingo sacrifices his safety to let Rachel and Jake get away. When they return home without him, Miriam and Domingo's sister Kyra go after him.
Wow. What a story and a refreshing look at the Amish faith from a vastly different perspective than one normally sees. I love these characters and I didn't want the book to end. I especially loved the part with Ada, where we get a glimpse into her heart and mind as she struggles to save her young nephew and return home after the attack that resulted in such tragedy. And Miriam is such a strong young woman, faced with difficult decisions. The exploration of love vs. faith and religion is brilliantly executed.
I adored Paradise Valley, the first in this series and I anxiously awaited the release of The Captive Heart. I am thrilled to say that Dale Cramer has done it again. It's going to be a long wait until December for the third and final book in the trilogy.
Miriam finds herself falling in love with Domingo, their hired hand. Not Amish and not even Christian, she knows that her father will never approve of her relationship with him. She attempts to find happiness with an Amish man, but her heart belongs to someone else.
When Rachel and her brother Aaron are attacked returning home from a trip, Rachel is kidnapped and Aaron left for dead. Jake and Domingo go after El Pantera and after rescuing Rachel, Domingo sacrifices his safety to let Rachel and Jake get away. When they return home without him, Miriam and Domingo's sister Kyra go after him.
Wow. What a story and a refreshing look at the Amish faith from a vastly different perspective than one normally sees. I love these characters and I didn't want the book to end. I especially loved the part with Ada, where we get a glimpse into her heart and mind as she struggles to save her young nephew and return home after the attack that resulted in such tragedy. And Miriam is such a strong young woman, faced with difficult decisions. The exploration of love vs. faith and religion is brilliantly executed.
I adored Paradise Valley, the first in this series and I anxiously awaited the release of The Captive Heart. I am thrilled to say that Dale Cramer has done it again. It's going to be a long wait until December for the third and final book in the trilogy.
January 16, 2018
I liked being able to see Miriam's side of the next few years in the Paradise Valley settlement. I appreciated how she knew what her heart wanted, but was willing to let Gott lead her in the direction He wanted her to go.
The action in the story moved along at a good pace, and I'm intrigued to find out what will happen next for the Amish settlers in Mexico.
The action in the story moved along at a good pace, and I'm intrigued to find out what will happen next for the Amish settlers in Mexico.
September 25, 2023
Pretty much a typical Amish novel. Girl falls in love with boy. In the end they get together, but not in penn or Ohio!
In mexico!
In mexico!
November 19, 2024
Better than others I've read from the Christian fiction section
January 12, 2012
After I devoured Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer, I didn't hesitate to purchase Captive Heart because, well, I wanted more. I fell in love with the characters and their story. Having just read and loved the first book, I was really thrilled to find the second one, which was released recently. I sat back and was ready to devour and savor this book.
Unlike other Amish fiction, this one reads more similar to a historical fiction rather than a romance fiction. It certainly has romance; the author doesn't fail on that end one bit. He does such a splendid job of developing the setting and events of this time period in Mexico that it draws one's attention away, periodically, from the romance to the historical aspects. My love for Amish fiction and for historical novels comes together in this book and in Paradise Valley.
This is the continuing story of Caleb Bender and his family who left their home, friends, and family to begin a new Amish settlement in the early 1920s Mexico. More families have joined them, babies are born, and love is renewed. The families have learned to build homes from handmade clay bricks. They've discovered the advantages of mild winters. And, new friends have been made. All is going well, for awhile.
The gun-wielding bandits are still riding about the area, tormenting the families. The pacifist Amish farmers not only have to endure the thievery but they have to find ways to protect their families from harm. Thankfully, they have a new friend, a native, who helps them, but there is only so much he can do. The families endure joy of being reunited with loved ones, but they also have to endure sadness and disease, kidnapping and fear.
Characters from the first book are further developed. We learn more about Miriam this time and her struggles between a new love and family. Jake and Rachel have new troubles to overcome. Caleb, the father, still remains strong and faithful. One real treat, though, is more focus on Ada. I'm so glad that the author did more with her character. Let's not forget the Mexican who, in the night, pointed the way for Ada.
If one enjoys Amish fiction, this, along with Paradise Valley are definitely "must reads". They are both wonderful reads, interesting and exciting, heartwarming and romantic, wholesome and inspiring, and so much more.
For those who aren't fans of Amish fiction, this book along with Paradise Valley are excellent historical fiction novels. They are clean and exciting while painting a fascinating picture of early 1920s Mexico.
The author did not fail in this novel either. I cried. I'm not a huge crybaby when it comes to Amish novels, but this one got me.
There was a moment when I was tempted to rate this only four stars. I'm not happy that the book ended with cliffhangers. Adding cliffhangers is a way to capture the audience, but it doesn't mean that I like them. Certainly, "happily ever after" endings are wonderful, but I don't necessarily demand them. Some portion of a cliffhanger is enough to keep me interested and lure me to a new book. This one, however, had me asking a bit more questions than I normally prefer. I truly hope that Dale Cramer does produce another novel in the series, soon, real soon, not kidding.
Unlike other Amish fiction, this one reads more similar to a historical fiction rather than a romance fiction. It certainly has romance; the author doesn't fail on that end one bit. He does such a splendid job of developing the setting and events of this time period in Mexico that it draws one's attention away, periodically, from the romance to the historical aspects. My love for Amish fiction and for historical novels comes together in this book and in Paradise Valley.
This is the continuing story of Caleb Bender and his family who left their home, friends, and family to begin a new Amish settlement in the early 1920s Mexico. More families have joined them, babies are born, and love is renewed. The families have learned to build homes from handmade clay bricks. They've discovered the advantages of mild winters. And, new friends have been made. All is going well, for awhile.
The gun-wielding bandits are still riding about the area, tormenting the families. The pacifist Amish farmers not only have to endure the thievery but they have to find ways to protect their families from harm. Thankfully, they have a new friend, a native, who helps them, but there is only so much he can do. The families endure joy of being reunited with loved ones, but they also have to endure sadness and disease, kidnapping and fear.
Characters from the first book are further developed. We learn more about Miriam this time and her struggles between a new love and family. Jake and Rachel have new troubles to overcome. Caleb, the father, still remains strong and faithful. One real treat, though, is more focus on Ada. I'm so glad that the author did more with her character. Let's not forget the Mexican who, in the night, pointed the way for Ada.
If one enjoys Amish fiction, this, along with Paradise Valley are definitely "must reads". They are both wonderful reads, interesting and exciting, heartwarming and romantic, wholesome and inspiring, and so much more.
For those who aren't fans of Amish fiction, this book along with Paradise Valley are excellent historical fiction novels. They are clean and exciting while painting a fascinating picture of early 1920s Mexico.
The author did not fail in this novel either. I cried. I'm not a huge crybaby when it comes to Amish novels, but this one got me.
There was a moment when I was tempted to rate this only four stars. I'm not happy that the book ended with cliffhangers. Adding cliffhangers is a way to capture the audience, but it doesn't mean that I like them. Certainly, "happily ever after" endings are wonderful, but I don't necessarily demand them. Some portion of a cliffhanger is enough to keep me interested and lure me to a new book. This one, however, had me asking a bit more questions than I normally prefer. I truly hope that Dale Cramer does produce another novel in the series, soon, real soon, not kidding.
August 13, 2012
This is the first Amish-themed historical fiction book that I read and I loved it. Cramer managed to keep my interest throughout the story with real characters facing difficult and life-changing situations. Although the book cover and the synopsis would lead a reader to believe this is a just a romance, it's really more of a family saga taking place in the 1920s, and Miriam's struggle with her feelings for Domingo, a half-breed Mexican man who isn't Amish.
Miriam's parents, Caleb and Martha Bender moved their ten children and their families to Paradise Valley in Mexico to pioneer a new Amish colony. But life is difficult because of the bandits that roam the mountain range and disease that hits the small colony. The Amish people are gentle and will not resort to violence to protect themselves. They rely on their faith and this theme, along with that of God's forgiveness is strong and well-suited to the story without overwhelming the reader.
The characters are well-rounded with strong traits and flaws that made me care about them and their outcome. I loved Miriam's strength and her relationship with her younger sister, Rachel. She wasn't afraid to do what was right even if it was unconventional. Domingo was courageous, as was his sister Kyra, and true to himself. He respected Caleb, who he worked for, and he was a man of principle. He was kind, yet could be fierce to protect those he loved. And the author succeeded in making him a sexy man in an Amish novel!
The author deftly drew me right into their conflicts, and I was transported to the dusty and dangerous mountain range of Mexico where there was plenty of action with the bad guys. None of it was predictable and I read this book quickly to see how it would all turn out. There was a scene that left me in tears. The ending was realistic and left me searching more works from this author, which I now want to read. (This is the second book in the Daughters of Caleb Bender series.) I have to mention one last thing that endeared me to this author's writing. He includes a character who is mentally disabled, portrays her realistically (I've worked with this population) and gives her a role that made me cheer.
I am Dale Cramer's newest fan. If you like Christian historical fiction that is well-written, clean, with a great plot and memorable characters, you should try this author. Not to be missed.
Note: This book includes some scenes of violence with bandits who attack. It is not gratuitous or over the top.
Disclosure: This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Miriam's parents, Caleb and Martha Bender moved their ten children and their families to Paradise Valley in Mexico to pioneer a new Amish colony. But life is difficult because of the bandits that roam the mountain range and disease that hits the small colony. The Amish people are gentle and will not resort to violence to protect themselves. They rely on their faith and this theme, along with that of God's forgiveness is strong and well-suited to the story without overwhelming the reader.
The characters are well-rounded with strong traits and flaws that made me care about them and their outcome. I loved Miriam's strength and her relationship with her younger sister, Rachel. She wasn't afraid to do what was right even if it was unconventional. Domingo was courageous, as was his sister Kyra, and true to himself. He respected Caleb, who he worked for, and he was a man of principle. He was kind, yet could be fierce to protect those he loved. And the author succeeded in making him a sexy man in an Amish novel!
The author deftly drew me right into their conflicts, and I was transported to the dusty and dangerous mountain range of Mexico where there was plenty of action with the bad guys. None of it was predictable and I read this book quickly to see how it would all turn out. There was a scene that left me in tears. The ending was realistic and left me searching more works from this author, which I now want to read. (This is the second book in the Daughters of Caleb Bender series.) I have to mention one last thing that endeared me to this author's writing. He includes a character who is mentally disabled, portrays her realistically (I've worked with this population) and gives her a role that made me cheer.
I am Dale Cramer's newest fan. If you like Christian historical fiction that is well-written, clean, with a great plot and memorable characters, you should try this author. Not to be missed.
Note: This book includes some scenes of violence with bandits who attack. It is not gratuitous or over the top.
Disclosure: This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
January 31, 2018
The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer
Year: 1920s
Location: Paradise Valley, Mexico
Main Characters:
Caleb and Martha Bender : Amish parents who brought their family to Mexico
Ada, Mary, Lizzie, Aaron, Amos (deceased twin), Emma, Miriam, Harvey, Rachel, Leah and Barbara (ages 12 to 28): All of Caleb and Martha's children
Domingo : Half-breed Native Mexican, hired hand who loves Miriam, but can't have her
Kyra: Domingo's sister
Jake Weaver: Rachel's love, finally arrived in Paradise Valley from Ohio
Years ago I read a book by Dale Cramer called Paradise Valley. I was so impressed with his writing I read three more, including Levi's Will. What I learned after those two books was that they were based on a true account of Dale Cramer's great grandfather, who was an elder of a group who left Ohio to settle a colony in Mexico. The Bender family is loosely based on Mr. Cramer's own relatives. Names and story-lines, though, are his own creation. Will, in Levi's Will is actually based on Mr. Cramer's father, born in Mexico before the colony returned to the states.
Now, in this second book of Caleb's Daughter's series, the colony is established and more Amish are arriving and farming the rich land. Domingo is a half-breed native Mexican who clearly has feelings for one of Caleb's Daughters, Miriam. And Miriam is VERY fond of him too, but because he's not Amish she has to set her feelings aside and consider the attentions of Micah, a newer member of the colony who intends to marry her. She tries, really. I had to give her credit.
The colony thrives in Mexico but for two problems. One: Diphtheria which took days to get medication for and wreaked havoc in the meantime. And two: bandits. As in the first book, they face danger anytime they leave their valley. Bandits seem to come upon them every time. Domingo managed to fend them off, but one time in particular on the way back from a town to get medicine the bandits were particularly threatening and Domingo was not there to protect them. I was reading this before bed. NOT a good idea. My fingernails were diminishing rapidly, and I was racing through the pages to see what was going to happen. Not much sleep that night!!!
Several people wrestle with their faith and the restrictions of being Amish. To defend yourself or your family is not done. This was particularly hard for the men who couldn't stand by and watch as loved ones are about to be hurt.
A recurring dream of Miriam's seems to be playing itself out in reality and she had no way to know when these events would occur nor how to stop what might come. Great story-line there.
Very good, clean book with suggestions of past impropriety, but never spelled out. I will start Though Mountains Fall soon. Loving this series.
Year: 1920s
Location: Paradise Valley, Mexico
Main Characters:
Caleb and Martha Bender : Amish parents who brought their family to Mexico
Ada, Mary, Lizzie, Aaron, Amos (deceased twin), Emma, Miriam, Harvey, Rachel, Leah and Barbara (ages 12 to 28): All of Caleb and Martha's children
Domingo : Half-breed Native Mexican, hired hand who loves Miriam, but can't have her
Kyra: Domingo's sister
Jake Weaver: Rachel's love, finally arrived in Paradise Valley from Ohio
Years ago I read a book by Dale Cramer called Paradise Valley. I was so impressed with his writing I read three more, including Levi's Will. What I learned after those two books was that they were based on a true account of Dale Cramer's great grandfather, who was an elder of a group who left Ohio to settle a colony in Mexico. The Bender family is loosely based on Mr. Cramer's own relatives. Names and story-lines, though, are his own creation. Will, in Levi's Will is actually based on Mr. Cramer's father, born in Mexico before the colony returned to the states.
Now, in this second book of Caleb's Daughter's series, the colony is established and more Amish are arriving and farming the rich land. Domingo is a half-breed native Mexican who clearly has feelings for one of Caleb's Daughters, Miriam. And Miriam is VERY fond of him too, but because he's not Amish she has to set her feelings aside and consider the attentions of Micah, a newer member of the colony who intends to marry her. She tries, really. I had to give her credit.
The colony thrives in Mexico but for two problems. One: Diphtheria which took days to get medication for and wreaked havoc in the meantime. And two: bandits. As in the first book, they face danger anytime they leave their valley. Bandits seem to come upon them every time. Domingo managed to fend them off, but one time in particular on the way back from a town to get medicine the bandits were particularly threatening and Domingo was not there to protect them. I was reading this before bed. NOT a good idea. My fingernails were diminishing rapidly, and I was racing through the pages to see what was going to happen. Not much sleep that night!!!
Several people wrestle with their faith and the restrictions of being Amish. To defend yourself or your family is not done. This was particularly hard for the men who couldn't stand by and watch as loved ones are about to be hurt.
A recurring dream of Miriam's seems to be playing itself out in reality and she had no way to know when these events would occur nor how to stop what might come. Great story-line there.
Very good, clean book with suggestions of past impropriety, but never spelled out. I will start Though Mountains Fall soon. Loving this series.
May 23, 2017
If you like Amish fiction or historical fiction, then you will like this book. It is the second in the series, and I have not read the first, but that wasn't a problem in understanding the book. It still had a clear beginning, middle, and end, and I was not lost.
The main family in this novel is the Bender family. They were originally from Ohio, but due to the treatment they received there as Amish, they moved down to Mexico. During this novel, other families join them, and they are building a community out of nothing, just like pioneers. The characters are placed in a situation that really did occur during the 1920s, and the author did a lot of research on those settlements and Mexico at the time. I do not know if the author was raised Amish, but I know he is related to Amish, so he may have been. Or at least he isn't too far removed.
This book takes place during a lot of political unrest in Mexico. Pancho Villa is riding the lands, and a lot of natives are upset about treatment from Spaniards, and it is definitely not the safest place for a colony of people who morally oppose violence. There is also a romance plot line woven throughout the book.
I thought the conversation near the beginning of the novel about respect being more important than love was very interesting. Although some characters seem to have changed their mind about that by the end—making love the most important thing.
It was a tough world to live in, and I found the book very interesting.
The main family in this novel is the Bender family. They were originally from Ohio, but due to the treatment they received there as Amish, they moved down to Mexico. During this novel, other families join them, and they are building a community out of nothing, just like pioneers. The characters are placed in a situation that really did occur during the 1920s, and the author did a lot of research on those settlements and Mexico at the time. I do not know if the author was raised Amish, but I know he is related to Amish, so he may have been. Or at least he isn't too far removed.
This book takes place during a lot of political unrest in Mexico. Pancho Villa is riding the lands, and a lot of natives are upset about treatment from Spaniards, and it is definitely not the safest place for a colony of people who morally oppose violence. There is also a romance plot line woven throughout the book.
I thought the conversation near the beginning of the novel about respect being more important than love was very interesting. Although some characters seem to have changed their mind about that by the end—making love the most important thing.
It was a tough world to live in, and I found the book very interesting.
February 11, 2012
The Wild West meets the Amish? Wait a minute does that mean this is a Western or an Amish romance? Actually -- it's both and definitely unlike any other Amish book I've read. For one, it's laced with a sinister undercurrent not to mention gritty prose that left me shuddering. If you're familiar with Westerns, you'll know that there's nothing worse than ruthless bandits and the kind they have in Paradise Valley are definitely more ruthless than most. Their evil is such a stark contrast to the peace-loving Amish and that made the emotions churning in this reader's gut more violent then the kind found within the book's pages. Definitely a nail-biting read.
This is the second book in The Daughters of Caleb Bender series but it was easy to follow the plot threads. Cramer did a good job of setting the scene and dealing with backstory so a reader who hasn't read the first book could easily pick up where Paradise Valley left off. And while there is resolution at the end of The Captive Heart it's clear that there is much more to come. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
This is the second book in The Daughters of Caleb Bender series but it was easy to follow the plot threads. Cramer did a good job of setting the scene and dealing with backstory so a reader who hasn't read the first book could easily pick up where Paradise Valley left off. And while there is resolution at the end of The Captive Heart it's clear that there is much more to come. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
April 27, 2022
this is an amazing series!
Story starts off right where the other left off. As if you hadn’t chanced books at all.
When the leader of the Mexican people are murdered the new Amish community fears that more bandit attacks will be had. But in the meantime land is being plowed, wells being dug, and houses being made. Romantic is trying to blossom in some, while others fight within themselves over their emotions.
A scarey epidemic spread through their new community. With death at their doorsteps they needed a doctor. Then they had to fight bandits and even a kidnapping.
Can a special needs adult “child” rescue herself and a small toddler and get help for her sister?
Will one turn against the Amish to live an “outsider”
Relying upon God and knowing He us with them in all they do influences another to help him with questions he’s had for awhile.
So much trauma and sadness in a foreign country, where they had come for a better life. Had the move been worth it?
This story will grab your heartstrings and not let them go. You’ll not want to stop reading once you start. Great storyteller. And this book is based loosely upon true facts that did take place. The authors great grandpa started the community in Mexico and his dad was born there in the Amish Mexico community. So this story is from some of the stories he’d been told and research he did. Such an awesome Historical story
Story starts off right where the other left off. As if you hadn’t chanced books at all.
When the leader of the Mexican people are murdered the new Amish community fears that more bandit attacks will be had. But in the meantime land is being plowed, wells being dug, and houses being made. Romantic is trying to blossom in some, while others fight within themselves over their emotions.
A scarey epidemic spread through their new community. With death at their doorsteps they needed a doctor. Then they had to fight bandits and even a kidnapping.
Can a special needs adult “child” rescue herself and a small toddler and get help for her sister?
Will one turn against the Amish to live an “outsider”
Relying upon God and knowing He us with them in all they do influences another to help him with questions he’s had for awhile.
So much trauma and sadness in a foreign country, where they had come for a better life. Had the move been worth it?
This story will grab your heartstrings and not let them go. You’ll not want to stop reading once you start. Great storyteller. And this book is based loosely upon true facts that did take place. The authors great grandpa started the community in Mexico and his dad was born there in the Amish Mexico community. So this story is from some of the stories he’d been told and research he did. Such an awesome Historical story
January 18, 2018
Second Time Around
This is the second book of this series that I've read. Obviously, since I have read both, I have truly enjoyed both of them and can't wait to get my hands on the 3rd book of this series. It is not just an Amish love story since it offers lots of historical information. This entire series is a very good read!
This is the second book of this series that I've read. Obviously, since I have read both, I have truly enjoyed both of them and can't wait to get my hands on the 3rd book of this series. It is not just an Amish love story since it offers lots of historical information. This entire series is a very good read!
January 1, 2024
It was based on an interesting history of an Amish community moving to Mexico way back in the day.
This book was written by a male which is unusual in Amish books.
There was too much violence for me to take in. I had to skip those parts.
Dale Cramer is a good author, and years ago I read his book Levi’s Will, which was very good.
This book was written by a male which is unusual in Amish books.
There was too much violence for me to take in. I had to skip those parts.
Dale Cramer is a good author, and years ago I read his book Levi’s Will, which was very good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2018
This was an excellent second book to the series. It held your interest till the very end keeping you constantly thinking about it and wanting to get back to reading to find out what happens. You also learned more about the country of Mexico as well as the Amish. A great book!
January 31, 2018
This series is very interesting because it has historical facts as part of the story. I do not read Amish tales because I am friends with an Amish family. The women just shake their heads at all the Amish fiction books out there. Some get it right; other books not so much.
February 24, 2018
,Amish Romance
A sweet story of young Amish love, along with some of the hardships of establishing a new settlement in the rough Mexican mountains, among humble peasants and the vile and heartless bandits.
A sweet story of young Amish love, along with some of the hardships of establishing a new settlement in the rough Mexican mountains, among humble peasants and the vile and heartless bandits.
December 19, 2019
Nowhere near as good as Levi's Will. The only reason I read it and finished was because it was by Dale Cramer. I am NOT a fan of Amish fiction but LOVED other books by Cramer, so I will probably finish the series just because I have hope Cramer will redeem himself in the end.
May 30, 2021
Some parts difficult to which to listen. The bans by the Amish and the bandits taking whatever they want make this a very sad book. If one takes it as a book from which to learn, it is more tolerable...and should provide guidance about how to live for the Lord.
September 27, 2023
The heart rules
It doesn't matter what religion or upbringing when you meet your loved one nothing else masters. No matter how much you put it out of your mind or try you can't stop the love. Eventually it will win.
It doesn't matter what religion or upbringing when you meet your loved one nothing else masters. No matter how much you put it out of your mind or try you can't stop the love. Eventually it will win.
July 14, 2017
These were historical fiction, but there was too much violence for my liking.
June 4, 2018
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. Plenty to keep the interest up, gripping in parts.
September 8, 2019
Enjoyed
Enjoyed the book.Couldn't sleep till I had finished it. Now to the next book. Author has me hooked. See you in the next book.
Enjoyed the book.Couldn't sleep till I had finished it. Now to the next book. Author has me hooked. See you in the next book.
February 11, 2020
Enjoyable book
August 20, 2023
Another great read. It turns out that this series of books are a lifesaver when you're sick, away from home and quarantined from the group. Lol
December 4, 2023
Suspense, romance and faith all in one
Suspense, romance and faith all in one.
Recommended for 16yr+, ideally 21+ bc of the type of suspended and violence.
Suspense, romance and faith all in one.
Recommended for 16yr+, ideally 21+ bc of the type of suspended and violence.
December 7, 2025
Even better than the first book!
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