The Fiddler

Home to Hickory Hollow #1

by Beverly Lewis

Amelia "Amy" DeVries, a 24-year-old violinist, is disillusioned with life and love after the collapse of her long-running romance. Weary of endless rehearsals and performances, Amy sets out on a road trip through the Pennsylvania mountains. She leaves her cell phone behind so life's demands can't intrude on her solitude. She doesn't know, nor care, where she will end up.When her car breaks down deep in the mountains, Amy realizes the flaw in her "no cell phone" plan. She abandons her car and walks the winding roads, searching for help. Following the smell of woodsmoke and the sound of music, she finds a rustic log cabin. There she meets a young Amishman--and through him a community--that will change her life forever.

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

339 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country and both a schoolteacher and an accomplished musician, has been an award-winning author for over a dozen years. Her acclaimed novel, The Preacher's Daughter, was a 2006 Quill Book Award finalist in the romance category. Her books have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and The New York Times. She and her husband, David, live in Colorado."

Reviews

[Seon Ji (Dawn) · Rating 3 out of 5]

++SPOILERS++

Meh. 2.5 stars

Not my type of read.

Not going to summarize, just point out what I liked and what didn't care for.

Liked:

Decent story
Relatively sweet
Great hero
Amish setting


Didn't like:

Heroine was spineless and weak willed. Had too many TSTL momments..
Neither H nor h fought for the other, though the H grew some balls and eventually went after her.
H & h spent little to NO time together in the whole book.
Too much crap about music.
Too little conflict.
Didn't care for the hero's whole ex fiancee thing in the beginning and how she broke off the engagement leaving him broken hearted.
The ending was too fast and unrealistic.
Too squeaky clean. No kissing.
The H & h didn't even tell each other their feelings until 98%.
Both H & h's actions seemed unrealistic.


It was ok. Just ok. Not going to read any more by this author, but if you're into squeaky clean with no conflict and lots of angst.. this is for you. Just not for me.

Safety:

H & h - Probably virgins, although it's not mentioned at all.
OW/OM-h is engaged but breaks it off. H was engaged by she broke it off. He loved her and was heart broken, but she's not mentioned much in the story.
Cheating-No
Cursing-No
Violence-No
Sex-No. Hand holding only and not until the very end.
Marriage- Last page
Baby-No
HEA-yes
ILY's -No

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. Amelia is rescued from the rainstorm and a flat tire by Michael. He is staying in a cabin, basically hiding out from his Amish life, trying to decide if he wants to leave it. Amelia is a concert violinist, also trying to decide her future. Amelia and Michael connect right away, each recognizing a fellow lost soul. He invites her to come to Hickory Hollow for a few days to relax. I loved the way that Amelia and Michael are able to relate to each other despite their very different backgrounds. Each is able to listen to the other without judging, thereby giving them a chance to explore options. Michael really wants to leave the Amish community, but is afraid of disappointing his family and friends. He is caught between two worlds - his Amish life, helping his father, and his English life, working as an architect and enjoying all the outside world has to offer. Amelia is tired of touring but doesn't know how to tell her father and the others who expect a great future from her. When she visits Hickory Hollow she is drawn to the simpler life she experiences there. I really liked the way she was able to help Michael with his niece, and the way she became such good friends with Joanna. When it is time for her to leave, she and Michael stay in touch for a long while, learning more about each other and expanding their friendship. They lose touch with each other for awhile due to a misunderstanding, but find their way together again after each has found their way to the lives they were meant to lead. I loved seeing the personal growth in both Michael and Amelia. Neither one came to their decisions easily, but the process was completely believable. I enjoyed seeing some characters from previous books. The conclusion to this story was beautifully done.

[Mina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, Beverly Lewis books are a bit of a guilty pleasure for me. She does Amish-based romantic fiction. Her books are familiar, quick reads, always clean, romantic, and focused on the character's developing relationships with God and their families. They make me feel good, and tend to come in trilogies, which I like.

The Fiddler fits right in with all of that. A fun, enjoyable read for a weekend. And while this story of the Englisher, Amelia, and the Amish man, Michael, wraps up quite satisfyingly by the end, there is apparently another installment coming this fall. I am assuming it will follow a different character, Maybe Joanna, the Amish friend that Amelia makes while visiting Hickory Hollow.

For those who read Lewis' stuff regularly, this is in the same congregation of Amish that the Heritage of Lancaster County took place in. (Remember Katie Lapp and her discovery of her English roots and the loss of her beloved Daniel Fisher?) The wise woman, Ella Mae, makes an encore appearance here. She's a character I've always loved.

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I used to like Amish fiction way back when, which is why this has been on my TBR list for a really long time. My attitude changed a little when all the stories started sounding the same. While the plot in this one was a little different, it just wasn't my thing. Believe-ability was my main issue. I just didn't buy the relationships in the story. So overall...sweet? Yes. But it was just okay for me.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Probably especially since as a musician, and former violinist, I really related to Amelia. I liked how her encounter with Michael, Joanna and especially the Wise Woman helped her reconnect with the faith of her grandmother and choose to live the way she felt God wanted her to live.

[Tammi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never tire of reading books by Beverly Lewis, in fact, I have a whole shelf dedicated to her books. Her ability to draw me into the story, placing me right into the scene with the characters is amazing.
Michael Hostetler is a 25 year old Amish man, who has not joined the Amish church, and who wants to leave the Amish community to pursue a career as a draftsman. Amelia Devries is an acclaimed violinist, who has toured with world famous orchestras, but feels trapped in a world where others place their expectations on her and expects her to tow their line. They both want to please their families, but have dreams of their own.

As a way to counter the pressure she feels, Amelia invented an alias for herself, Amy Lee. Amy Lee has won first place in a fiddling contest, and at the opening of the story is opening for a country music group at the Mann in Philadelphia. Her manager, who has found out about her secret life, tells Amelia that she will not continue playing this style of music. He also informs her of an upcoming European tour that her father and he himself would like to see her take.

On her way home to Ohio, Amelia gets lost in a rain storm, and finds herself on a lonely back road. When her tire goes flat, she manages to pull off the road, but without a cell phone signal she must wait out the storm in the car. Seeing a light through the trees, Amelia is lead to Michael's door…

I loved the fact that Mrs. Lewis updated the reader, me, on the lives of the characters from previous books, and I also enjoyed meeting new ones. I really enjoyed the musical aspect of of the book, and liked reading Mrs. Lewis relationship to music in the Author’s Note, at the back of the book.

I look forward to reading the next book in the Home to Hickory Hollow series.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

**The Fiddler (Book 1 in the Home to Hickory Hollow series) by Beverly Lewis was provided for me free by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beverly Lewis takes a refreshing look at the community of the Amish as it interacts with the English world. In this first book of a new series, conflicts arise as the characters from both communities are trying to discover where God really intends them to be. The rules of the ordnung do not come from God but from the community. Is it wrong in God’s eyes not to follow them? And when a talented violinist finally realizes her dreams are different from her parents’ dreams for her, what path should she take? And why, if her musical talent is a God-given gift, do the Amish feel it is wrong to play? These are only some of the conflicts that arise in this beautifully written tale of love and heartache, of hope and belief. The well-developed characters and pastoral setting are only part of the charm of this book. The real interest lies in the blending of music into the storyline. Ms. Lewis does a superb job in capturing the feelings of the young concert master as well as nailing the musical aspects of the story. A wonderful read that will have you wishing for the next installment in this inspirational series.

[Lynne Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always know when I pick up a Beverly Lewis book that I am going to get a wonderful story mixed with authentic Amish culture. I have never read a Beverly Lewis book I didn't like and this one was no different. I finished this book in one day. Ms. Lewis has a way of telling a story and drawing you in so you feel like you are actually part of the story.

World class violinist Amelia Devries needs a break - from family, agent, and boyfriend pressure but she could never imagine the kind of break God had in mind. On a stormy night she makes a wrong turn and winds up at a remote cabin in the woods where Amish Michael Hostetler is staying with issues of his own. For reasons they both don't understand they form an immediate friendship and Michael invites Amelia to come back to his home in Hickory Hollow for a short stay and rest. What happens after that is a richly woven story full of indecision, fear, loyalty, and a desperate need to change the course of their lives.

I loved this book from the first page and especially liked the parts with Amelia and her violin or fiddle. I could just see her practicing in the meadow and the sound wafting on the air and being carried for miles. This is book 1 in a new series and I cannot wait for book 2. Thank you Ms. Lewis for a well written story. I look forward to the next chapter in the lives of the people of Hickory Hollow.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found The Fiddler to be a refreshing change from the norm in Beverly Lewis' writing, and I'm a long-time fan of this author. I thoroughly enjoyed this story of an English musician who became friends with a young Amishman. The plot was well written and the characters very likeable. I highly recommend The Fiddler!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Amish fiction

A new wave of Amish fiction. It’s not just Amish but Amish and English and a whole lot of fiddle music! I’m a fiddle lover and wish I could hear Amelia play. I’m sure it’s lovely.

Loved this book and recommend it. Can’t wait to start the next book in this series.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading books like these. Lighthearted and fun to read. I love how Lewis is able to write her characters in a way where you feel involved with their stories.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice story with good, unexpected ending. Some parts felt a little rushed but everything came together. I enjoyed the characters.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amelia Devries is an extremely talented violinist, whose father's dream for her has been to travel the world's stages. Music is what gives her life; however, she doesn't only like to play the classics. She also loves to fiddle. Her alter ego is Amy Lee, star fiddler, who just opened up for Tim McGraw. No one else in her life knows about her other side, which at times is more appealing than being a concert violinist.

On her way home from the Tim McGraw show, she takes a wrong turn in a horrible rainstorm. She seeks shelter at a nearby cabin, in which an Amishman, Michael Hostetler, lives. Michael was born in the Amish faith, but has recently found himself drawn to the English ways of life as he seeks his higher education.

The two of them are instantly drawn to each other. Michael is amazed at Amelia's talents and beauty. Amelia is drawn to a simpler way of life. Both of them seem to straddle both worlds, though one foot definitely lies more heavily in one than in the other.

As you are reading this book, you realize that one or both of them is going to have to give up their current way of life, in order to make anything work out. Dreams may be fulfilled, but some may have to be given up in order to create new ones. You're torn between how you want them to work this out. If Amelia goes Amish, she will have to give up her music. If Michael becomes English, he faces the disappointment of his community. Both of them fear upsetting their fathers, who have alternative ideas about what their children should do with their lives. You want them to find a way to work it out, to achieve their life's dreams, and to not lose their families in the process.

While I was reading this, I kept envisioning Amelia as a sort of Alison Krauss. I had no celebrity in mind for Michael, but I could still picture him just as clearly in my mind. You could really feel the emotions of the characters as they grew and developed. You rode their roller coaster of hopes and dreams, disappointments and desires. It was a very touching reminder to stay true to yourself. I loved it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[This review also appears on Andi's Book Reviews and Uplifting Reads.]

[Shari Larsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia Devries is a 24 year violinist, feeling disillusioned with life when she makes a wrong turn during a rain storm coming home from a performance in Pennsylvania, ending up at the log cabin where a young Amish man, Michael Hostetler, is staying. Amelia soon finds they actually have a lot in common, as Michael is struggling with his path in life also; he wants to go out into "the world", but loyalty to his family makes his decision on whether or not to stay Amish very difficult. Amelia is intrigued by peaceful Amish way of life, and decides to stay a little longer and get to know the people of Hickory Hollow, a decision that will change her life forever. One of the main points of the story is that you have to live a life that pleases yourself, and God, even if it's not always what your loved ones would rather have you do.

I really enjoyed this story. It is the first book in the series Home to Hickory Hollow but it works as a stand alone story. There are also a few characters from another Beverly Lewis series, The Heritage of Lancaster County (which includes the book The Shunning), also set in the fictional community of Hickory Hollow, that make an appearance in this book; you do not have to read that series first, but I think the minor characters in this book make more sense if you do. I was especially pleased that Ella Mae Zook, the "Wise Woman" from that series, plays an integral part of the plot here.

Another interesting aspect of this book is that part of the story is told from Michael's point of view; it's very rare, at least in all the Amish fiction I have read, that a story is told from a male point of view.

I look forward to reading the next book in this series, The Bridesmaid, which tells the story of one of Amelia's Amish friends.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Fiddler" by Beverly Lewis is the story of Amelia Devries and Michael Hostetler and the providential turn of events that led them to one another. Amelia is a professional violinist who is growing steadily discontented with her life path. Michael is a young Amishman who has yet to fully commit to the Amish way of life. He yearns for the "fancy" life, yet is held back by love for his family. Their mutual discontent draws them together as they begin to process how to redesign their life paths. Faith is integral in all aspects of this story. Michael has a deep faith and Amelia rediscovers her faith through her conversations with Michael and an impromptu visit to his hometown of Hickory Hollow. That faith allows them to eventually make the right choices for themselves while still showing love and honor to their family members.

The main characters in this story were believable and thoughtful. The potential for a love story between them existed right from the beginning, but it was so sweetly portrayed that the ending brought real satisfaction. The secondary characters were also well-done, particularly the charming Amish characters.

Lewis is a master at Amish fiction. She skillfully weaves together the pros and cons of Amish living. I was left with a greater appreciation for a simpler lifestyle and the ability that gives to really do some soul searching. This book was definitely well-done and does not disappoint!

(I’ve received this complimentary book from Bethany House Publishers through the Book Blogger program in exchange for a review. A positive review was not required and the views expressed in my review are strictly my own.)

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beverly Lewis writes a distinctly different type of Amish book than most out there. Not a thriller, not a mystery, not your usual to-be-or-not-to-be-Amish type, Lewis pens a story of young adults seeking peace with their chosen paths in life - and of gaining the courage and the voice to reach for it.

Amelia and Michael each travel the road to maturity in a parallel way in this book, a road of searching their own hearts and then reaching out beyond themselves. There are no mysteries, no stalkers, no pressure to be anything except what they are from anyone but themselves; yet this can be a hard lesson to learn. Lewis writes about it with grace and depth, making this a story that anyone from their teen years on up could relate to.

I really enjoyed this story. I felt that the romantic ending was somewhat predictable, but the quality characters and unusual circumstances - as well as the life lessons explored - made it a very worthwhile read.

I received a free copy of The Fiddler from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.


http://anestintherocks.blogspot.com/2...

[Tina Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fiddler is a wonderful book - it moves fast, is well written, all the i's & t's are dotted & crossed and I connected with the hero & heroine of this story. Amelia is a believable musician (child prodigy & top level violinist) who is struggling with a big decision and afraid of hurting those who love her if she doesn't make the right one.

This verse beautifully describes the theme of the book and both Amelia & Michael take refuge in it:

"Delight thyself also in the Lord and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Ps 37:4

One of the best things I liked about the book is the level of faith sharing that Beverly Lewis imparts. Through the verses given and message of faith both Amelia and Michael are gently encouraged to seek God in prayer and listen to what God is teaching or leading them to do. I loved how it was done without preaching. Both Christians and non-Christians should enjoy this book & it would be a great title for mother daughter reading - the only thing missing is a list of questions for discussion.

[Elizabeth]

I loved the book from the beginning to the end. The gentle love story of Amelia and Michael draws a reader in.

Amelia, a professional violinist, gets lost in a rainstorm on the way home to Columbus from Pennsylvania. The road she takes leads her to a cabin where a young Amish-man is staying after leaving home. The two connect from the beginning, trusting each other completely.

Amelia decides to stay in the area for the weekend, finding a new friend in Joanna. Amelia and Joanna exchange addresses and keep in contact. Michael secretly asks Joanna for Amelia’s address and contacts her. They write to each other for a while but, they lose contact after a time and move one.

The author casually mentions Katie Lapp (from The Heritage of Lancaster County Series). I can hardly wait for the next book to come out.

“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”.

[Sandra Stiles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that Beverly Lewis is one of my favorite authors of Amish fiction. She has crafted a wonderful story where the characters are very believable. Their problems are such that no matter what your background you can relate to them. All of us have parents who have had dreams for their children. We don’t want to disappoint our parents. In this book Amelia’s father has a dream of her becoming a concert violinist. Amelia loves playing the violin. However, she really loves fiddling. Her father would think this is beneath her talents. The other main character is Michael. He loves his father dearly but would love to become an architect. That would mean not joining the church and entering college. Neither want to disappoint their parents. Yet, their dreams, if they followed them and their hearts would do just that. They must each face and make hard choices. There is a small romance in the story. Want to find out if either one of them follows their own path? Then I suggest you go out and get this first book in the series. You won’t be disappointed.

[Cherie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tried very hard to get into the world in The Fiddler, but failed. I understand that this is a novel with an interior setting of mind, soul, and heart in opposition to others which are bursting with action, witty dialogs, or spirited encounters. I have read novels in Amish settings before and enjoyed watching the characters evolve and change. So I don't think that the setting is at fault.

Rather, I found the pace of the story to be painfully slow and each chapter inconsequential before I finally gave up. I understand that this book is the first of a new series, but even that cannot charm away the glacial progress.

After a frustrating struggle that lasted over several chapters, I gave in and closed the cover for good. I hope future readers have a more positive experience.

Thank you for reading.

[Madilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book. Every time I read a Beverly Lewis book, I'm blown away by all the feels it gives me. I can't figure out how she packs so much into this one little book.
I really loved the whole story. The romance was cute, though very unrealistic. Stoney was really annoying at times too. :P
I can't wait to continue with the series and hear more about all of these lovely girls lives.
For age rating, I'd say 13 or maybe mature 12 year olds and up.
I very highly recommend this book to pretty much anyone :)

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

love Beverly Lewis' books and I love to read about the amish

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hickory Hollow, Pennsylvania.

Amelia Devries and Michael Hostetler find each other during a rainstorm.

Her music. His devotion. Their dreams. All are tested.

It's nice to go to a place where simple and purity go together. Not without problems and struggles, two young people search for their place in the world and where that world exists.

I wanted a book that took me to a "feel-good-place." This book transported me there.

Five-star ratings are for those books that move me, emotionally. This one did exactly that. Having fallen in love with the setting and the characters, I look forward to the next book in this series.

Honorable character, pure living and simple lifestyle, drew me into this story. Having turned the last page, I felt cleansed.

[Emilie Chase · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is definitely my favorite Beverly Lewis book by far. The romance made me squeal, and the setting had me in awe. Mrs. Lewis is able to skillfully craft a story, with stunning scenery and lovable characters. If you get a chance, definitely pick this one up. Though it is an older book, it still has truths which hold true today.

5/5 stars for a beautiful book by an equally beautiful woman!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Elizabeth Meadows · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beverly Lewis never fails to deliver a wonderful story!

[Hannah Moore]

I'm a sucker for these books. Lewis has the best storylines. Ready for the next one in this trilogy ☺️

[Kiersten Naberhaus · Rating 1 out of 5]

A swing and a miss. A very very very slow swing.

[Erik · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this story it was joy what I was expecting at all. I kept thinking oh Amelia is going to learn she is really Amish but no. Then I thought what other turns could there be.

[Félise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know all the songs mentioned off the top of my head, but if this book had a playlist it would include titles such as:
Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto in D
Humoresque by Alexander de Taeye
Caprice no 1 in E by Paganini
the O'Connor Fiddle Concerto
And of course, some hymns.
Just in case anyone wants background music while they read. :)

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

{For those just joining us: I'll be seeing/meeting the very talented author, Beverly Lewis, on April 7th for her book tour...so every Monday & Friday we'll post a review of one of her books! Starting the 10th of March and ending the 7th of April. So, more reviews of awesome books!}

We're on day 2 of the count down!

About this book:

“Amelia "Amy" DeVries, a 24-year-old violinist, is disillusioned with life and love after the collapse of her long-running romance. Weary of endless rehearsals and performances, Amy sets out on a road trip through the Pennsylvania mountains. She leaves her cell phone behind so life's demands can't intrude on her solitude. She doesn't know, nor care, where she will end up.

When her car breaks down deep in the mountains, Amy realizes the flaw in her "no cell phone" plan. She abandons her car and walks the winding roads, searching for help. Following the smell of woodsmoke and the sound of music, she finds a rustic log cabin. There she meets a young Amishman--and through him a community--that will change her life forever.”


Series: “Home to Hickory Hollow” book #1



Spiritual Content- Scriptures are quoted; Prayers are said & Blessings over food are said; Talks about God; Michael has a strong Faith, where Amelia is re-learning about God.


Negative Content- N/A

Sexual Content- N/A

-Amelia Devries

-Michael Hostetler


P.O.V. switches between Amelia, Michael & Lillianne
323 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A very clean, sweet read for pre-teens and up. :)



Come back Monday to see another review! By the way, have you entered our giveaway yet? Ends the 18th!




*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.