What do you think?
Rate this book
The Promise of Sunrise #2
Promise to Cherish
As World War II draws to a close, nurse Christine falls in love with roguish Amish boy, Eli, and must choose between a new, uncertain life in the Amish faith or face the judgment of a conservative post-war American society for her past mistakes.
It’s 1946, and Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital, where she works alongside members of a Civilian Public Service unit. Eli is one of the “conscies”—conscientious objectors to the war—and he is doing his best to become a man of character instead of the immature heartbreaker he used to be back home in his Amish community.
Christine and Eli are friendly, but when an old acquaintance, Jack, returns home from the war Christine’s world is turned violently upside down. Once Christine realizes she is pregnant with Jack’s baby, her options are limited. Eli, heartbroken to see his friend so hurt, offers her an escape within his Amish community. Despite her unplanned pregnancy, Christine is fully embraced by Eli’s community. She lives with an elderly midwife, who shares her great wisdom on life, and Christine slowly begins to feel valued and loved as she learns the Amish way of life.
Christine finds herself falling for Eli. But as her due date approaches, the abusive Jack discovers Christine in her Amish hideaway and starts causing trouble for the quiet community. Christine can’t see herself becoming Amish, and she knows that if Eli leaves the church to be with her, he will be shunned. Will she escape Jack and possibly give up her baby or will she follow her heart and promise to cherish the Amish man who loves her?
It’s 1946, and Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital, where she works alongside members of a Civilian Public Service unit. Eli is one of the “conscies”—conscientious objectors to the war—and he is doing his best to become a man of character instead of the immature heartbreaker he used to be back home in his Amish community.
Christine and Eli are friendly, but when an old acquaintance, Jack, returns home from the war Christine’s world is turned violently upside down. Once Christine realizes she is pregnant with Jack’s baby, her options are limited. Eli, heartbroken to see his friend so hurt, offers her an escape within his Amish community. Despite her unplanned pregnancy, Christine is fully embraced by Eli’s community. She lives with an elderly midwife, who shares her great wisdom on life, and Christine slowly begins to feel valued and loved as she learns the Amish way of life.
Christine finds herself falling for Eli. But as her due date approaches, the abusive Jack discovers Christine in her Amish hideaway and starts causing trouble for the quiet community. Christine can’t see herself becoming Amish, and she knows that if Eli leaves the church to be with her, he will be shunned. Will she escape Jack and possibly give up her baby or will she follow her heart and promise to cherish the Amish man who loves her?
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
20 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Byler Younts
7 books352 followersGo to www.elizabethbyleryounts.com to subscribe to the newsletter and receive the audio of the first chapter of THE SOLACE OF WATER as a thank you gift.
Award-winning author Elizabeth Byler Younts writes historical fiction for Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson. She gained a worldwide audience through her first book Seasons: A Real Story of an Amish Girl. She is also the author of the Carol award-winning novel The Solace of Water, critically-acclaimed novel The Bright Unknown, and The Promise of Sunrise series. She has consulted on Amish lifestyle and the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect for two award-winning television shows. Elizabeth lives in Central Pennsylvania with her husband, two daughters, and a small menagerie of well-loved pets.
Award-winning author Elizabeth Byler Younts writes historical fiction for Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson. She gained a worldwide audience through her first book Seasons: A Real Story of an Amish Girl. She is also the author of the Carol award-winning novel The Solace of Water, critically-acclaimed novel The Bright Unknown, and The Promise of Sunrise series. She has consulted on Amish lifestyle and the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect for two award-winning television shows. Elizabeth lives in Central Pennsylvania with her husband, two daughters, and a small menagerie of well-loved pets.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 6, 2017
Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Byler Younts
Timeframe: 1945+
Location: Hudson River State Hospital, Poughkeepsie, NY, and Amish area of Sunrise, Delaware
Main Characters:
Christine Freeman: Nurse at Hudson River State Hospital
Eli Brenneman: Amish Conscientious Objector
Jack Delano : Not a good guy
After reading some very good books by Ms. Younts, this one was hard for me… and harder yet to review. I almost don't want to because I respect this author so much. Having been raised Amish for part of her life, but always around her Amish family, she knows this faith very well, so I trust her writing about this subject.
However that's not the issue for me in this book. I didn't feel the sensitive nature of the main part of this story was done well.
Please don't read on if you really want to read this book. It will spoil the entire thing. This is mostly for my venting and to remember this book later when I look back on it.
My apologies to those who saw this as a 5-star read. It just wasn't for me.
Timeframe: 1945+
Location: Hudson River State Hospital, Poughkeepsie, NY, and Amish area of Sunrise, Delaware
Main Characters:
Christine Freeman: Nurse at Hudson River State Hospital
Eli Brenneman: Amish Conscientious Objector
Jack Delano : Not a good guy
After reading some very good books by Ms. Younts, this one was hard for me… and harder yet to review. I almost don't want to because I respect this author so much. Having been raised Amish for part of her life, but always around her Amish family, she knows this faith very well, so I trust her writing about this subject.
However that's not the issue for me in this book. I didn't feel the sensitive nature of the main part of this story was done well.
Please don't read on if you really want to read this book. It will spoil the entire thing. This is mostly for my venting and to remember this book later when I look back on it.
My apologies to those who saw this as a 5-star read. It just wasn't for me.
August 12, 2014
Elizabeth Byler Younts is turning this not-really-into-Amish stories skeptic (that's me) into a believer. I read and loved her first book, Promise to Return, a few months ago. When I heard the second in the series, Promise to Cherish, was coming out and featured heartbreaker Eli as a main character, I immediately wanted a copy.
(Okay, I admit to a soft spot for this strapping blonde man-still-acting-like-a-boy, and couldn't wait to read his story.)
Eli and Christine's story is beautiful and authentic; the author brings their characters to life and ties their love together with vivid emotion and detail. I learned lots of fascinating facts about the Amish and their simpler way of life through Christine's eyes and Eli's decisions. The tension between the main and secondary characters in Promise to Cherish kept me turning pages, curious to know the final outcome of their lives while longing to see Christine and Eli together.
Promise to Cherish is set as World War II draws to a close. Eli Brenneman is one of the "conscies," Amish conscientious objectors to the war. Eli serves his time grudgingly, finally aware he needs to move past his heartbreaker reputation within his Amish community in order to honor his family and faith. He finds himself working at the Hudson River State Hospital and there meets Christine, a nurse struggling to make ends meet. They work together in the difficult Civilian Public Service unit, where friendship and trust blossoms between them. But just when Eli notices his feelings for Christine may be more than friendship, she experiences a terrible ordeal with a male acquaintance that changes the course of her life.
When Eli learns Christine's shocking secret - that she's expecting another man's baby - his budding feelings for her come into question. But the offer of escape into his quiet Amish community eventually wins over Christine, and she's surprised to find herself comfortable and well taken care of by Eli's family and community, despite her difficult situation.
One of my favorite aspects of Promise to Cherish is the character growth masterfully shown by the author. Eli was a rascal in Elizabeth's first book, a boy who didn't know his heart or care much about the hearts of others. In Promise to Cherish, we get to watch his character grow and stretch and learn. His recommitment to his faith is beautiful and realistic. Christine is strong and yet vulnerable, and so torn about her future and her new love for Eli. I longed for scenes with them together, because a couple of the scenes were so tender and delicately written that they were worth reading twice.
Promise to Cherish is a truly lovely, highly recommended read. I look forward to reading more of this author's books.
(Okay, I admit to a soft spot for this strapping blonde man-still-acting-like-a-boy, and couldn't wait to read his story.)
Eli and Christine's story is beautiful and authentic; the author brings their characters to life and ties their love together with vivid emotion and detail. I learned lots of fascinating facts about the Amish and their simpler way of life through Christine's eyes and Eli's decisions. The tension between the main and secondary characters in Promise to Cherish kept me turning pages, curious to know the final outcome of their lives while longing to see Christine and Eli together.
Promise to Cherish is set as World War II draws to a close. Eli Brenneman is one of the "conscies," Amish conscientious objectors to the war. Eli serves his time grudgingly, finally aware he needs to move past his heartbreaker reputation within his Amish community in order to honor his family and faith. He finds himself working at the Hudson River State Hospital and there meets Christine, a nurse struggling to make ends meet. They work together in the difficult Civilian Public Service unit, where friendship and trust blossoms between them. But just when Eli notices his feelings for Christine may be more than friendship, she experiences a terrible ordeal with a male acquaintance that changes the course of her life.
When Eli learns Christine's shocking secret - that she's expecting another man's baby - his budding feelings for her come into question. But the offer of escape into his quiet Amish community eventually wins over Christine, and she's surprised to find herself comfortable and well taken care of by Eli's family and community, despite her difficult situation.
One of my favorite aspects of Promise to Cherish is the character growth masterfully shown by the author. Eli was a rascal in Elizabeth's first book, a boy who didn't know his heart or care much about the hearts of others. In Promise to Cherish, we get to watch his character grow and stretch and learn. His recommitment to his faith is beautiful and realistic. Christine is strong and yet vulnerable, and so torn about her future and her new love for Eli. I longed for scenes with them together, because a couple of the scenes were so tender and delicately written that they were worth reading twice.
Promise to Cherish is a truly lovely, highly recommended read. I look forward to reading more of this author's books.
October 11, 2014
Different. Original. Awesome.
I don’t read many Amish books, but when I saw Elizabeth Byler Younts’ new book I knew I wanted to read it as I very much enjoyed her debut novel Promise to Return. And it surely was a treat to read about new favorite characters; Eli and Christine’s romance during the end of World War 2.
Christine is a lovely young woman and a nurse at Hudson River State Mental Hospital. It was not her choice to work there, but she has to make money to provide for her family since her father cannot work anymore due to a leg injury.
Eli is a young Amish man and a conscientious objector. The Civilian Public Service sends him to Hudson River State Hospital where he meets Christine. It is not love at first sight as Christine challenges him about his objector’s position. She has lost two brothers in the war and she can’t stand it that Eli refuses to fight. But Eli knows what he believes in and argues with her and stands up for his faith.
On New Year’s Eve, Christine experiences a terrible night. A young man she admired appears not to be so admirable after all and several weeks later Christine finds out that she is pregnant. An unmarried pregnant woman in those days is a disgrace for the family and her mother wants to send her to a home for unmarried women in trouble to deliver the baby and give it up for adoption. Christine is not sure about what to do.
Soon everyone at the hospital knows about Christine’s condition and she is fired. In the previous weeks, Eli and Christine have become friends and Eli cares for her. He does not believe all the rumors he has been hearing. When he finds out that Christine wants to go to a home to give up her baby, he suggests she comes with him to his Amish community and offers her a place with his family. He hopes to provide a place of rest and peace so that she can make a rational decision about what to do with the baby.
Back home in the Amish community, people are shocked to see that Eli brought home an English girl. What about Matilda—the Amish girl that has faithfully written him twice a week? It doesn’t matter that Eli tells everyone that Christine and he are just friends – and that Matilda and he are also just friends. Matilda is convinced she has a claim on Eli because she has written to him. Christine feels like she impedes Eli’s future with his family and a possible relationship with Matilda.
Soon Christine starts to love the Amish countryside and feels somewhat sad to leave it all behind when she has to go to the home for unmarried women in trouble. Some people try to convince her to keep the baby, but she cannot imagine life as a stand-alone mother. Eli wants to help—he loves her, but she does not want him to leave his family and give up his faith for her. And she does not belong among the Amish—it is not her real life. So she has to go and give up her baby and go back home to her parents and start her life anew. Or is there another way . . . ?
The author did a great job, making the characters very likable and keeping the reader guessing till the end on how things would turn out. The writing flows and keeps the reader interested and turning the pages. Awesome storyline and plot. Highly recommended!
I don’t read many Amish books, but when I saw Elizabeth Byler Younts’ new book I knew I wanted to read it as I very much enjoyed her debut novel Promise to Return. And it surely was a treat to read about new favorite characters; Eli and Christine’s romance during the end of World War 2.
Christine is a lovely young woman and a nurse at Hudson River State Mental Hospital. It was not her choice to work there, but she has to make money to provide for her family since her father cannot work anymore due to a leg injury.
Eli is a young Amish man and a conscientious objector. The Civilian Public Service sends him to Hudson River State Hospital where he meets Christine. It is not love at first sight as Christine challenges him about his objector’s position. She has lost two brothers in the war and she can’t stand it that Eli refuses to fight. But Eli knows what he believes in and argues with her and stands up for his faith.
On New Year’s Eve, Christine experiences a terrible night. A young man she admired appears not to be so admirable after all and several weeks later Christine finds out that she is pregnant. An unmarried pregnant woman in those days is a disgrace for the family and her mother wants to send her to a home for unmarried women in trouble to deliver the baby and give it up for adoption. Christine is not sure about what to do.
Soon everyone at the hospital knows about Christine’s condition and she is fired. In the previous weeks, Eli and Christine have become friends and Eli cares for her. He does not believe all the rumors he has been hearing. When he finds out that Christine wants to go to a home to give up her baby, he suggests she comes with him to his Amish community and offers her a place with his family. He hopes to provide a place of rest and peace so that she can make a rational decision about what to do with the baby.
Back home in the Amish community, people are shocked to see that Eli brought home an English girl. What about Matilda—the Amish girl that has faithfully written him twice a week? It doesn’t matter that Eli tells everyone that Christine and he are just friends – and that Matilda and he are also just friends. Matilda is convinced she has a claim on Eli because she has written to him. Christine feels like she impedes Eli’s future with his family and a possible relationship with Matilda.
Soon Christine starts to love the Amish countryside and feels somewhat sad to leave it all behind when she has to go to the home for unmarried women in trouble. Some people try to convince her to keep the baby, but she cannot imagine life as a stand-alone mother. Eli wants to help—he loves her, but she does not want him to leave his family and give up his faith for her. And she does not belong among the Amish—it is not her real life. So she has to go and give up her baby and go back home to her parents and start her life anew. Or is there another way . . . ?
The author did a great job, making the characters very likable and keeping the reader guessing till the end on how things would turn out. The writing flows and keeps the reader interested and turning the pages. Awesome storyline and plot. Highly recommended!
September 26, 2014
A Promise To Return is a book that will linger in my mind for a long time, a book that I really didn’t want to end. The story takes place near the end of WWII and with the Amish being Pacifists, Eli, and our main character is sent to dig ditches. Eventually he ends up working in a mental hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY.
Also working at this hospital as a nurse is Christine, a person who cares too much, and is the sole provider for her parents. Both of her brothers have been killed in the War, and her father is very handicapped having been injured in WWI. Now you can see how she might feel about a pacifist.
What an eye opener being in that mental hospital is, such a horrible place, the state provides one sheet and one set of clothing per patient. So if your clothes get dirty, you walk nude until they come back from the laundry. Not enough beds, sheets or blankets, and never mind not enough staff.
Christine would be what we think of now days as a geek, she was an outstanding student, but very quiet. Now some of her high school friends get her to go to a reunion party, and there is the star football player Jack, back from the war, and she is again smitten he would play attention to her. I felt so sorry for her, and what a jerk, for lack of a better word, he was to her and other woman.
When circumstance force Christine to leave the hospital and Eli’s tour has ended, he persuades her to come home with him. What a rude awakening Christine is in for, I can’t even imagine! No turning the switch, or flushing the toilet here.
Can someone go from non-Amish to Amish? I suppose it is possible, but how about Eli, can he marry and English? There are answers here, and some you probably won’t like, but this page-turner kept me reading right to the end, and I wanted more. This one is sure to keep your attention.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Howard Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
Also working at this hospital as a nurse is Christine, a person who cares too much, and is the sole provider for her parents. Both of her brothers have been killed in the War, and her father is very handicapped having been injured in WWI. Now you can see how she might feel about a pacifist.
What an eye opener being in that mental hospital is, such a horrible place, the state provides one sheet and one set of clothing per patient. So if your clothes get dirty, you walk nude until they come back from the laundry. Not enough beds, sheets or blankets, and never mind not enough staff.
Christine would be what we think of now days as a geek, she was an outstanding student, but very quiet. Now some of her high school friends get her to go to a reunion party, and there is the star football player Jack, back from the war, and she is again smitten he would play attention to her. I felt so sorry for her, and what a jerk, for lack of a better word, he was to her and other woman.
When circumstance force Christine to leave the hospital and Eli’s tour has ended, he persuades her to come home with him. What a rude awakening Christine is in for, I can’t even imagine! No turning the switch, or flushing the toilet here.
Can someone go from non-Amish to Amish? I suppose it is possible, but how about Eli, can he marry and English? There are answers here, and some you probably won’t like, but this page-turner kept me reading right to the end, and I wanted more. This one is sure to keep your attention.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Howard Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
Read
May 24, 2014"Elizabeth Byler Younts' Amish heritage and historical research again shines in this dynamic sophomore novel, Promise to Cherish, which examines the plight of unwed mothers and conscientious objectors in the unstable wake of post-war American society. Readers will be enthralled with the story of Christine and Eli all while being forced to ask themselves what they would do if they had to choose between a life of love, even if that means leaving everything you love behind." ~Jolina Petersheim, bestselling and award-winning author of THE MIDWIFE and THE OUTCAST
August 4, 2014
A must read story. Step into the lives of Christine Freeman and Eli Brenneman and live their journey. I never knew that Amish men were drafted in Word War II. I enjoyed reading my advanced copy of this remarkable story. Promise to Cherish makes you not want to put the book down. You'll enjoy a Promise to Cherish and you will absolutely love not only the journey of Eli and Christine but the ending. I highly recommend reading a Promise to Cherish.
I big thank you to Elizabeth Byler Younts for sending me my copy to review.
I big thank you to Elizabeth Byler Younts for sending me my copy to review.
Read
August 1, 2015DNF 17%: I keep dropping books and I hate that, but everything I pick up isn't interesting me. I didn't like the writing style of this book and Eli was super confusing. Was his Amish? Was he modern? I couldn't tell.
July 16, 2023
A nice historic romance but I had some problems with the pacing. The story sometimes jumped ahead unexpectedly, even skipping over what I would think of as important events, which made it feel a little messy and incoherent. It got better around the middle and the last half was very enjoyable. But then the pacing problem came back at the end when she built up a big conflict and then skipped ahead to the epilogue where everything was resolved.
January 18, 2015
Promise to Cherish is a lovely, heartrending story of the seemingly ill-fated romance between a young couple whose lives intertwine during a raging war that threatens to tear the whole world asunder.
Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital when she meets the handsome Eli Brenneman, an Amish conscientious objector during World War II. In spite of their immense differences, Christine and Eli develop a friendship based on physical attraction and mutual respect.
Christine is flattered when an old school crush, handsome and popular Jack Delano, offers to take her riding after a New Year's Eve party. But that promising night forever changes the course of her life when a violent act occurs, leaving her with no recourse but to return with Eli to his Amish community. Both Eli and Christine are faced with tough, seemingly insurmountable challenges when their initial attraction begins to grow into love. Especially when Jack resurfaces and wants to take Christine back with him....
Elizabeth Younts has written a hauntingly beautiful love story that is not your typical Amish romance. The harsh realities of war, forbidden love, and violence perpetrated on a young woman are tough issues, but the author deals with them with finesse and dignity. Be sure to have the tissue box nearby -- you will need them! Truly a well written story of God's faithfulness, redemption, and healing, be sure to put Promise to Cherish at the top of your wishlist!
Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital when she meets the handsome Eli Brenneman, an Amish conscientious objector during World War II. In spite of their immense differences, Christine and Eli develop a friendship based on physical attraction and mutual respect.
Christine is flattered when an old school crush, handsome and popular Jack Delano, offers to take her riding after a New Year's Eve party. But that promising night forever changes the course of her life when a violent act occurs, leaving her with no recourse but to return with Eli to his Amish community. Both Eli and Christine are faced with tough, seemingly insurmountable challenges when their initial attraction begins to grow into love. Especially when Jack resurfaces and wants to take Christine back with him....
Elizabeth Younts has written a hauntingly beautiful love story that is not your typical Amish romance. The harsh realities of war, forbidden love, and violence perpetrated on a young woman are tough issues, but the author deals with them with finesse and dignity. Be sure to have the tissue box nearby -- you will need them! Truly a well written story of God's faithfulness, redemption, and healing, be sure to put Promise to Cherish at the top of your wishlist!
October 7, 2014
It's quite a feat to write an Amish novel that doesn't read like your typical Amish novel but Elizabeth Byler Younts has done it and I couldn't put this book down. (Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my review.)
The story takes place during World War II, when Eli, an Amish man is sent to work in a camp as a conscientious objector and is later transferred to the Hudson River State Hospital to assist the nurses in caring for those with disabilities. There, he meets Christine, a nurse, and though they aren't friendly at first, their common work brings them together. When Christine faces trouble she can't escape, Eli offers her refuge in his Amish community. But their friendship brings more trouble and invites a visit from Christine's past that almost destroys their relationship.
Yes, it's partially set in an Amish community. Yes, it's a romance. But the story was so well-written and so captivating that I forgot it was an Amish book. That is what I love about Younts' stories. They draw on her Amish history and experiences but they are not the typical worn-out stories like some in the genre.
I look forward to more of Younts' work and appreciate the blend of family history and American history she takes in this series. A great follow-up to her debut novel.
The story takes place during World War II, when Eli, an Amish man is sent to work in a camp as a conscientious objector and is later transferred to the Hudson River State Hospital to assist the nurses in caring for those with disabilities. There, he meets Christine, a nurse, and though they aren't friendly at first, their common work brings them together. When Christine faces trouble she can't escape, Eli offers her refuge in his Amish community. But their friendship brings more trouble and invites a visit from Christine's past that almost destroys their relationship.
Yes, it's partially set in an Amish community. Yes, it's a romance. But the story was so well-written and so captivating that I forgot it was an Amish book. That is what I love about Younts' stories. They draw on her Amish history and experiences but they are not the typical worn-out stories like some in the genre.
I look forward to more of Younts' work and appreciate the blend of family history and American history she takes in this series. A great follow-up to her debut novel.
August 5, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Most of the Amish fiction I have read recently has a modern-day setting, so it was refreshing to pick up Elizabeth Byler Younts’ Promise to Cherish and take a peek at the Amish experience during World War II. Before reading this novel, I had no idea about the Civilian Public Service, but I really enjoyed learning a bit about it. And within this historical context, Younts tells a fascinating of two characters caught between two very different worlds and my heart ached for them as they struggled to face their challenges. It’s a very interesting and sweet read, and I think fans of historical fiction will enjoy it. Now, I am certainly eager to read more from Elizabeth Byler Younts.
Thanks to Goodreads First Reads, I won a copy of Promise to Cherish. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Most of the Amish fiction I have read recently has a modern-day setting, so it was refreshing to pick up Elizabeth Byler Younts’ Promise to Cherish and take a peek at the Amish experience during World War II. Before reading this novel, I had no idea about the Civilian Public Service, but I really enjoyed learning a bit about it. And within this historical context, Younts tells a fascinating of two characters caught between two very different worlds and my heart ached for them as they struggled to face their challenges. It’s a very interesting and sweet read, and I think fans of historical fiction will enjoy it. Now, I am certainly eager to read more from Elizabeth Byler Younts.
Thanks to Goodreads First Reads, I won a copy of Promise to Cherish. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 21, 2014
Christine works as a nurse in a mental hospital during World War II. She meets Eli, an Amish conscientious objector. Initially, there’s animosity between them since Christine has lost her brothers in the war, yet, Eli does not have to fight because it goes against his faith. This story takes a traumatic turn when Christine dates Jack, a handsome man who was a friend of one of her deceased brothers.
I enjoyed this novel because it’s not your typical Amish book. Since the story takes place in the thirties, and deals with war, it gives the book a different flavor than most Amish stories. It also shows how Christine deals with pain and grief. Reading about a mental hospital in the 1930′s also gave this novel a unique feel. A mental hospital was a terrible place to be, and we see how Christine and Eli deal with the patients. You see the horrific conditions to which the patients are subjected. It’s a really good, realistic read.
- See more at:
http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2014/10/...
I enjoyed this novel because it’s not your typical Amish book. Since the story takes place in the thirties, and deals with war, it gives the book a different flavor than most Amish stories. It also shows how Christine deals with pain and grief. Reading about a mental hospital in the 1930′s also gave this novel a unique feel. A mental hospital was a terrible place to be, and we see how Christine and Eli deal with the patients. You see the horrific conditions to which the patients are subjected. It’s a really good, realistic read.
- See more at:
http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2014/10/...
August 31, 2014
Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Byler Younts was an exceptional book and I couldn’t stand it when I had to put it down. I was very tempted to turn on the TV to entertain my two boys so that I could keep reading! The book unfolded in such a great way and I never knew what was going to happen next. The character development was great and I loved watching them grow and overcome their personal struggles. I am sad that I have finished the book and will for sure be reading it for a second time, which I only do with the books that I thoroughly enjoyed. I am looking forward to book 3 and reading another outstanding novel by this great author.
October 9, 2014
Elizabeth Younts has spun an intricate tale of hardship, heartbreak and the triumph of love in 'Promise to Cherish'. The book was recommended to me and I hesitantly investigated, as it is not of a genre that I would typically select. I found myself invested in the characters and genuinely concerned about their welfare and fates. If you have any experience with Amish folk, you will appreciate her spiking the prose with the "Pennsylvania Dutch" language which lends a certain authenticity to the story. It was a very easy read, and I found myself wanting to get back to it, delaying household chores in order to find out what happened next.
August 5, 2014
This book is amazing. I could not put it down. Once scene specifically was so full of beautifully written emotion, I was in tears. This love story is written in such a way you can feel the emotions of the couple and the obstacles that there so called forbidden love face. The author description will enthrall you and make you feel as though you are in the book living with them or even as them. An absolutely beautiful depiction of love.
October 4, 2014
Promise to Cherish is solid proof that Elizabeth Byler Younts is an excellent author. She just gets better and better with her writing. I love this book. I felt like I was transported back in time to post World War II era Amish country.
The horrors Christine had to go through proves that happiness can happen from any circumstances. This is a type of story that will stay with you for a long time.
Fabulous Book and I highly recommend it!
5 plus stars.
The horrors Christine had to go through proves that happiness can happen from any circumstances. This is a type of story that will stay with you for a long time.
Fabulous Book and I highly recommend it!
5 plus stars.
February 17, 2019
This might he my favorite of the three books. There was crying on my end, and that’s a good signs. Many feels. The story line is much more raw and intense than I’m used to in Christian novels and I love that. The world is gritty and sometimes awful and sometimes wonderful and we shouldn’t sugar coat it. The characters are very real and human and 3D and the writing just flowed.
December 30, 2014
This was as enjoyable as the first book in the series. Ok, maybe just a touch more. I liked that the author switched between the lead characters so I could understand how the other was feeling.
February 4, 2023
1945. Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital, where she works alongside members of a Civilian Public Service unit. Eli is one of the conscies—conscientious objectors to the war—and he is doing his best to become a better man instead of the immature heartbreaker he used to be back home in his Amish community.
Christine and Eli are friendly, but when an old acquaintance, Jack, comes back from the war, he violently assaults Christine. Eli, heartbroken to see his friend so hurt, offers her an escape within his Amish community. Despite her misgivings, Christine is fully embraced by Eli’s community. She slowly begins to feel valued and loved as she learns the Amish way of life.
Christine finds herself falling for Eli. But soon, the abusive Jack discovers Christine in her Amish hideaway and starts causing trouble for the quiet community. Christine can’t see herself becoming Amish, and she knows that if Eli leaves the church to marry her, he will be shunned. Will she escape Jack and possibly have to give up the one thing she holds most dear, or will she follow her heart and promise to cherish the Amish man who loves her?
The Hudson River State Hospital is a former New York psychiatric hospital that operated from 1873-2000s.The campus is notable for its main building,aka "Kirkbride",due to its exemplary High Victorian Gothic architecture.It resides on the Poughkeepsie-Hyde Park town line.During WWII, critical shortages of workers in psychiatric hospitals developed because staff had left for better paying jobs with improved working conditions.The CPS workers eventually received permission to work for the mental institutions as attendants or psychiatric aides.Individuals who found jobs at the rural camps unfulfilling and meaningless volunteered for this new type of assignment.The CPS discovered appalling conditions in the mental hospital wards and objected to the mistreatment and abuse of patients and determined to improve conditions in the psychiatric wards by advocating reforms through contacting church managers and government officials.They demonstrated alternatives to violence when dealing with patients.
Christine and Eli are friendly, but when an old acquaintance, Jack, comes back from the war, he violently assaults Christine. Eli, heartbroken to see his friend so hurt, offers her an escape within his Amish community. Despite her misgivings, Christine is fully embraced by Eli’s community. She slowly begins to feel valued and loved as she learns the Amish way of life.
Christine finds herself falling for Eli. But soon, the abusive Jack discovers Christine in her Amish hideaway and starts causing trouble for the quiet community. Christine can’t see herself becoming Amish, and she knows that if Eli leaves the church to marry her, he will be shunned. Will she escape Jack and possibly have to give up the one thing she holds most dear, or will she follow her heart and promise to cherish the Amish man who loves her?
The Hudson River State Hospital is a former New York psychiatric hospital that operated from 1873-2000s.The campus is notable for its main building,aka "Kirkbride",due to its exemplary High Victorian Gothic architecture.It resides on the Poughkeepsie-Hyde Park town line.During WWII, critical shortages of workers in psychiatric hospitals developed because staff had left for better paying jobs with improved working conditions.The CPS workers eventually received permission to work for the mental institutions as attendants or psychiatric aides.Individuals who found jobs at the rural camps unfulfilling and meaningless volunteered for this new type of assignment.The CPS discovered appalling conditions in the mental hospital wards and objected to the mistreatment and abuse of patients and determined to improve conditions in the psychiatric wards by advocating reforms through contacting church managers and government officials.They demonstrated alternatives to violence when dealing with patients.
February 5, 2020
What another amazing read by Elizabeth Byler Younts! As with the first book in this series, I was sucked in right from the beginning. We met Eli in Promise to Return but it's in this one that we see him mature into manhood. Originally I wasn't a fan of him (as I'm sure was intended), but after he leaves home to serve his time in a hospital after being drafted during WWII, he grew on me in leaps and bounds. What Christine experiences in this book is haunting and yet she finds it harder to forgive herself than the one who abused her. It was heartwarming to see Eli grow into just the man she needed whether he realized it at first or not. The character growth in this novel is what kept my eyes glued to the pages as they continued to turn. I couldn't help but be entrenched in their journeys.
Promise to Return was about an Amish man who decided to go to war against his Ornung's wishes. Promise to Cherish was about a man who was drafted and was sent to work in a hospital to fulfill his duty and avoid going to war. I like that each book in this series takes a look at a different response to WWII and the draft, and how it effected individuals in the Amish community. Coming from an Amish family, I appreciate the authenticity that the author brought to the narrative. She was able to provide a unique perspective to how the Amish reacted by speaking directly to family members who lived through it.
I absolutely loved this read, and was excited enough to start the next one that I already did. Whether you enjoy Historical fiction, Amish fiction, or both, I can't recommend it enough. I know that this is one that is going to stay with me for a very long time.
Promise to Return was about an Amish man who decided to go to war against his Ornung's wishes. Promise to Cherish was about a man who was drafted and was sent to work in a hospital to fulfill his duty and avoid going to war. I like that each book in this series takes a look at a different response to WWII and the draft, and how it effected individuals in the Amish community. Coming from an Amish family, I appreciate the authenticity that the author brought to the narrative. She was able to provide a unique perspective to how the Amish reacted by speaking directly to family members who lived through it.
I absolutely loved this read, and was excited enough to start the next one that I already did. Whether you enjoy Historical fiction, Amish fiction, or both, I can't recommend it enough. I know that this is one that is going to stay with me for a very long time.
June 25, 2020
Weer een mooi boek van deze schrijfster. Ze weet veelvoorkomende thema's in romans zoals een verkrachting en uitsluiting, op een hele nieuwe manier te belichten en te verweven met een Amish verhaal.
De afschuwelijke gebeurtenissen worden met tederheid beschreven, zodat het draaglijk is om te lezen. Ook blijft het boek overal fatsoenlijk.
De afschuwelijke gebeurtenissen worden met tederheid beschreven, zodat het draaglijk is om te lezen. Ook blijft het boek overal fatsoenlijk.
December 29, 2024
Great story
Wow, this was a really good story. Two people who's worlds are so different. Eli was Amish, and Christine is not. They forge a friendship while working, but can two people from very different backgrounds really marry?
I loved the storyline and characters.
Wow, this was a really good story. Two people who's worlds are so different. Eli was Amish, and Christine is not. They forge a friendship while working, but can two people from very different backgrounds really marry?
I loved the storyline and characters.
November 17, 2018
Slow start but got to be a book I couldn't put down.
June 27, 2020
I love reading her writings.....what a great story.
Read
May 28, 2025Listened to this with my youngest daughter during our long commutes. It was SO fun to experience it together!
October 10, 2014
In Promise to Cherish, Elizabeth Byler Younts has written a thoroughly readable, highly enjoyable, heart-warming and culturally enlightening novel of America at the end of World War II.
Christine Freeman is a nurse in a mental hospital. Eli Brenneman is Amish serving his Civilian Public Service in the same hospital. A reluctant friendship develops. When Christine is raped and then learns she is pregnant as a result, Eli comes to her side to help her deal with the ostracism unwed pregnancy brings during that time. Fired from her job, shunned by society and pressured by her family to go to an unwed mothers’ home, Christine accepts Eli’s offer for her to stay with his Amish family while she faces momentous decisions about her baby and her future.
But Eli has his own issues. His past as a rogue causes his family and community to question his motives and keep him at arm’s length. His brother, Mark, bears the largest grudge. Civilian Service changed Eli. He has grown and matured. The rejection by his family hurts, but he determines to work through it and show he has changed for the better.
In the meantime, Christine becomes accepted in the Amish community and soon forms deep friendships. One with Eli’s Aunt Annie and another with his sister-in-law, Sylvia. Her nursing skills gain her acceptance when she comes to the aid of Eli’s brother after a bull injures him. But her ostracism raises its ugly head when the local doctor refuses to hire her because of her unwed pregnancy.
The man who raped Christine discovers she is pregnant and where she is living. He insists they marry so he can have a son. His violence soon reveals itself as the Amish community stands in defense of Christine and he attacks Eli.
Christine attempts to leave for an unwed mother’s home but the baby comes early.
Through all the adventures of Christine and Eli, their love grows and flourishes until the end when Christine must make the decision to leave or stay with Eli.
One of the strengths of this novel is how Ms. Younts shows the cultural clashes on so many levels during this mid-1940s time period. There is the clash of the mental hospital and the society that put the patients there. There is the clash of Amish with the non-Amish, or English as they are called. There is the clash of Christine’s pregnancy with the prevailing attitudes toward unwed motherhood and rape. Ms. Younts depicts these tenderly through the lives of the characters. We are able to see both sides because she humanizes them so well.
The story world rings true because the author does not dump information on the reader and does not preach an agenda. She presents the world as her characters experience it.
Christine’s rape scene is presented with sensitivity. It is not physically graphic but we experience it through Christine’s mind and emotions.
In my humble opinion, Ms. Younts’ strong characters push this story to a higher level in the romance genre. She uses the technique of misunderstanding to add touches of humor and also to increase tension and conflict right through to the climax.
The changes that both Christine and Eli experience are believable and engaging. The reader is connected and urging them onward, feeling their hurt and anguish at each setback.
The secondary characters are strong with vital roles to play in the story. Aunt Annie’s love is an inspiration and a vehicle for Christine to change. Everybody wants an aunt like Annie. I found myself wishing to know her whole story. Maybe there’s a future novel there.
The growth in faith for both Eli and Christine feels very natural, not forced or manipulated or contrived. The same goes for their attraction to each other.
An excellent second novel I recommend most heartily.
A copy of this novel was provided to me for an honest review.
Christine Freeman is a nurse in a mental hospital. Eli Brenneman is Amish serving his Civilian Public Service in the same hospital. A reluctant friendship develops. When Christine is raped and then learns she is pregnant as a result, Eli comes to her side to help her deal with the ostracism unwed pregnancy brings during that time. Fired from her job, shunned by society and pressured by her family to go to an unwed mothers’ home, Christine accepts Eli’s offer for her to stay with his Amish family while she faces momentous decisions about her baby and her future.
But Eli has his own issues. His past as a rogue causes his family and community to question his motives and keep him at arm’s length. His brother, Mark, bears the largest grudge. Civilian Service changed Eli. He has grown and matured. The rejection by his family hurts, but he determines to work through it and show he has changed for the better.
In the meantime, Christine becomes accepted in the Amish community and soon forms deep friendships. One with Eli’s Aunt Annie and another with his sister-in-law, Sylvia. Her nursing skills gain her acceptance when she comes to the aid of Eli’s brother after a bull injures him. But her ostracism raises its ugly head when the local doctor refuses to hire her because of her unwed pregnancy.
The man who raped Christine discovers she is pregnant and where she is living. He insists they marry so he can have a son. His violence soon reveals itself as the Amish community stands in defense of Christine and he attacks Eli.
Christine attempts to leave for an unwed mother’s home but the baby comes early.
Through all the adventures of Christine and Eli, their love grows and flourishes until the end when Christine must make the decision to leave or stay with Eli.
One of the strengths of this novel is how Ms. Younts shows the cultural clashes on so many levels during this mid-1940s time period. There is the clash of the mental hospital and the society that put the patients there. There is the clash of Amish with the non-Amish, or English as they are called. There is the clash of Christine’s pregnancy with the prevailing attitudes toward unwed motherhood and rape. Ms. Younts depicts these tenderly through the lives of the characters. We are able to see both sides because she humanizes them so well.
The story world rings true because the author does not dump information on the reader and does not preach an agenda. She presents the world as her characters experience it.
Christine’s rape scene is presented with sensitivity. It is not physically graphic but we experience it through Christine’s mind and emotions.
In my humble opinion, Ms. Younts’ strong characters push this story to a higher level in the romance genre. She uses the technique of misunderstanding to add touches of humor and also to increase tension and conflict right through to the climax.
The changes that both Christine and Eli experience are believable and engaging. The reader is connected and urging them onward, feeling their hurt and anguish at each setback.
The secondary characters are strong with vital roles to play in the story. Aunt Annie’s love is an inspiration and a vehicle for Christine to change. Everybody wants an aunt like Annie. I found myself wishing to know her whole story. Maybe there’s a future novel there.
The growth in faith for both Eli and Christine feels very natural, not forced or manipulated or contrived. The same goes for their attraction to each other.
An excellent second novel I recommend most heartily.
A copy of this novel was provided to me for an honest review.
October 1, 2014
I had a rare moment to read an outstanding novel that shares the love of nursing in a state hospital alongside an Amish man who was sent to the Civilian Public Service Unit during World War II in Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Byler Younts. There is so much realization poured out in the words you read that you can imagine what it felt like as nurse Christine Freeman tries to find a way to manage the healthcare of so many patients in Hudson River State Hospital. Since so many of the men and women have been called to active duty, there only last resort is to take in the conscientious objectors from the CPS unit. This one filled with Mennonite and Amish young men who are serving their time in the war in obligation to their religious faith.
While some might claim they are dodging their duty by not serving in the war, Eli Brenneman knows it is what he must do even if he is already experiencing his prejudice from the Amish in Sunrise as well. At least this way he is fulfilling his military obligation and not taking lives that go against the Amish faith. Now if he can only manage to convince others of this as well. But the life of aiding the mental patients at Hudson River is something he can do beside digging pointless ditches for the government. From helping them bath, custodial duties, and even keeping patients busy reading to them or playing games makes him feel like he is doing what God has called him to do.
What he isn't prepared for is the attraction he feels towards Christine. Yet he manages to keep his distance because in her eyes, he is one of the reasons her brothers Nathaniel and Peter died, so that men like Eli could avoid going to war in their place. All Christine wants is to find a way to help her struggling family financially since her father was left crippled from the war and unable to find work. She had hoped that one day she might find the perfect man and begin a family of her own, but for now her duties as a shift nurse fulfill that calling. But life is about to change abruptly for both Christine and Eli and ways that neither ever anticipated. For both of them, their lives would never be the same and the hopes and dreams they had will not work out as they had planned.
I received Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Byler Younts compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. I absolutely love the blending of WWII and Christian Amish into this wonderful novel. It is the second in the Promise of Sunrise Series and I can't wait for the third book in the series. There is so much detail in the treatment of the patients at Hudson River that you literally feel like you are part of the staff as well. The author utilizes her own families history to breath life into this novel and the result you will find is pure perfection. For lovers of WWII, Christian Amish and of course romance, trust me, this is the novel for you. Even though this is part of a series, each can be read as a stand alone. But once you read this one, you will want to pick up Promise to Return. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and literally read it in one sitting, I simply couldn't put it down.
While some might claim they are dodging their duty by not serving in the war, Eli Brenneman knows it is what he must do even if he is already experiencing his prejudice from the Amish in Sunrise as well. At least this way he is fulfilling his military obligation and not taking lives that go against the Amish faith. Now if he can only manage to convince others of this as well. But the life of aiding the mental patients at Hudson River is something he can do beside digging pointless ditches for the government. From helping them bath, custodial duties, and even keeping patients busy reading to them or playing games makes him feel like he is doing what God has called him to do.
What he isn't prepared for is the attraction he feels towards Christine. Yet he manages to keep his distance because in her eyes, he is one of the reasons her brothers Nathaniel and Peter died, so that men like Eli could avoid going to war in their place. All Christine wants is to find a way to help her struggling family financially since her father was left crippled from the war and unable to find work. She had hoped that one day she might find the perfect man and begin a family of her own, but for now her duties as a shift nurse fulfill that calling. But life is about to change abruptly for both Christine and Eli and ways that neither ever anticipated. For both of them, their lives would never be the same and the hopes and dreams they had will not work out as they had planned.
I received Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Byler Younts compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. I absolutely love the blending of WWII and Christian Amish into this wonderful novel. It is the second in the Promise of Sunrise Series and I can't wait for the third book in the series. There is so much detail in the treatment of the patients at Hudson River that you literally feel like you are part of the staff as well. The author utilizes her own families history to breath life into this novel and the result you will find is pure perfection. For lovers of WWII, Christian Amish and of course romance, trust me, this is the novel for you. Even though this is part of a series, each can be read as a stand alone. But once you read this one, you will want to pick up Promise to Return. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and literally read it in one sitting, I simply couldn't put it down.
October 7, 2014
Elizabeth Byler Younts in her new book, “Promise To Cherish” Book Two in The Promise of Sunrise series published by Howard Books brings us into the life of Christine Freeman.
From the back cover: As World War II draws to a close, nurse Christine falls in love with roguish Amish boy, Eli, and must choose between a new, uncertain life in the Amish faith or face the judgment of a conservative post-war American society for her past mistakes.
It’s 1945, and Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital, where she works alongside members of a Civilian Public Service unit. Eli is one of the “conscies”-conscientious objectors to the war-and he is doing his best to become a man of character instead of the immature heartbreaker he used to be back home in his Amish community.
Christine and Eli are friendly, but when an old acquaintance, Jack, returns home from the war Christine’s world is turned violently upside down. Once Christine realizes she is pregnant with Jack’s baby, her options are limited. Eli, heartbroken to see his friend so hurt, offers her an escape within his Amish community. Despite her unplanned pregnancy, Christine is fully embraced by Eli’s community. She lives with an elderly midwife, who shares her great wisdom on life, and Christine slowly begins to feel valued and loved as she learns the Amish way of life.
Christine finds herself falling for Eli. But as her due date approaches, the abusive Jack discovers Christine in her Amish hideaway and starts causing trouble for the quiet community. Christine can’t see herself becoming Amish, and she knows that if Eli leaves the church to be with her, he will be shunned. Will she escape Jack and possibly give up her baby or will she follow her heart and promise to cherish the Amish man who loves her?
Historical Fiction, abusive husbands and World War II are just some of the ingredients in this wonderful adventure. Eli is Amish Christine is not but they meet at the Hudson River State Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY. They develop a friendship which begins to turn into something much greater. Ms. Byler Younts gives us tightly drawn characters that come alive on the pages. Jack is really evil as the abusive husband, Eli grows in his character from the opening pages through the whole book and Christine is another character that ends differently than when she started. I love history and Ms. Byler Younts knows how to blend history and fiction together to the point where you don’t know where one ends and the other begins. And on top of everything it is a romance. A highly enjoyable read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: As World War II draws to a close, nurse Christine falls in love with roguish Amish boy, Eli, and must choose between a new, uncertain life in the Amish faith or face the judgment of a conservative post-war American society for her past mistakes.
It’s 1945, and Christine Freeman is a nurse at Hudson River State Hospital, where she works alongside members of a Civilian Public Service unit. Eli is one of the “conscies”-conscientious objectors to the war-and he is doing his best to become a man of character instead of the immature heartbreaker he used to be back home in his Amish community.
Christine and Eli are friendly, but when an old acquaintance, Jack, returns home from the war Christine’s world is turned violently upside down. Once Christine realizes she is pregnant with Jack’s baby, her options are limited. Eli, heartbroken to see his friend so hurt, offers her an escape within his Amish community. Despite her unplanned pregnancy, Christine is fully embraced by Eli’s community. She lives with an elderly midwife, who shares her great wisdom on life, and Christine slowly begins to feel valued and loved as she learns the Amish way of life.
Christine finds herself falling for Eli. But as her due date approaches, the abusive Jack discovers Christine in her Amish hideaway and starts causing trouble for the quiet community. Christine can’t see herself becoming Amish, and she knows that if Eli leaves the church to be with her, he will be shunned. Will she escape Jack and possibly give up her baby or will she follow her heart and promise to cherish the Amish man who loves her?
Historical Fiction, abusive husbands and World War II are just some of the ingredients in this wonderful adventure. Eli is Amish Christine is not but they meet at the Hudson River State Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY. They develop a friendship which begins to turn into something much greater. Ms. Byler Younts gives us tightly drawn characters that come alive on the pages. Jack is really evil as the abusive husband, Eli grows in his character from the opening pages through the whole book and Christine is another character that ends differently than when she started. I love history and Ms. Byler Younts knows how to blend history and fiction together to the point where you don’t know where one ends and the other begins. And on top of everything it is a romance. A highly enjoyable read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 7, 2014
"Promise To Cherish" by Elizabeth Byler Younts is just as good as "Promise to Return".
I have to be honest and say that this story deals with a subject that I was not aware that was going to be touched upon and at first I was not sure I was going to finish reading the book but I am so glad that I did.
I hope I am not giving a spoiler but the subject I am referring to is rape. I just think if I had known the issue was in the story I might not have been caught so unaware, this subject is just too close to home for me to come upon it with no warning, that is why I am including it in this review!
I was so upset that this was included in the book and I was talking to another reader and friend and this was her reply to me "Think about it...it happens all the time, in real life. It's something to talk about. Something that should be spoken about. And what happens? How does the character deal with it? How does the character get over it? Can she forgive? Can she forget? Can she get past the hurt and the scars? It is a very sensitive topic. But sadly,it's a real one. Abortion is also a sensitive topic we don't like but it is a real life issue. But it's something a lot of people deal with. Like rape. The author wants a person to be there, in the story. Even slightly, a good author shows you those feelings. Makes you feel them, somewhat. She was frightened. Scared. Anxious. Trying to get away. While this and that was happening. It should be handled sensitively, but realistic. And rape isn't pretty or sugar covered. Get what I mean?" Her comment made me think the book wouldn't have been the same without this happening and the storyline wouldn't have been as great and yes now that I have finished reading the book I can say if it had been left out the ending wouldn't have been as truly remarkable as it was! So I say read this book and know it belongs , even if it makes you cry. Since I added the part about abortion in my discussion with my friend I do need to let you all know that abortion isn't in the book, just part of the conversation.
Eli is Amish and has been sent to Hudson River State Hospital to work since he is a conscientious objectors to the war. He is trying to make up for all his not quite so honorable actions back home at Sunrise.
Christine is trying to be a good daughter and take care of her parents since her father was injured in World War 1.
This book is a book full of heartaches and forgiveness and Love. Yes, this book made me experience many emotions which is what a good story does!
This book is really wonderful and the characters are truly human. I absolutely loved the ending and am anxiously awaiting book 3 in this series (The Promise Of Sunrise Series). This book is getting five stars!
I was given a copy of the book by the author for my honest review!
I have to be honest and say that this story deals with a subject that I was not aware that was going to be touched upon and at first I was not sure I was going to finish reading the book but I am so glad that I did.
I hope I am not giving a spoiler but the subject I am referring to is rape. I just think if I had known the issue was in the story I might not have been caught so unaware, this subject is just too close to home for me to come upon it with no warning, that is why I am including it in this review!
I was so upset that this was included in the book and I was talking to another reader and friend and this was her reply to me "Think about it...it happens all the time, in real life. It's something to talk about. Something that should be spoken about. And what happens? How does the character deal with it? How does the character get over it? Can she forgive? Can she forget? Can she get past the hurt and the scars? It is a very sensitive topic. But sadly,it's a real one. Abortion is also a sensitive topic we don't like but it is a real life issue. But it's something a lot of people deal with. Like rape. The author wants a person to be there, in the story. Even slightly, a good author shows you those feelings. Makes you feel them, somewhat. She was frightened. Scared. Anxious. Trying to get away. While this and that was happening. It should be handled sensitively, but realistic. And rape isn't pretty or sugar covered. Get what I mean?" Her comment made me think the book wouldn't have been the same without this happening and the storyline wouldn't have been as great and yes now that I have finished reading the book I can say if it had been left out the ending wouldn't have been as truly remarkable as it was! So I say read this book and know it belongs , even if it makes you cry. Since I added the part about abortion in my discussion with my friend I do need to let you all know that abortion isn't in the book, just part of the conversation.
Eli is Amish and has been sent to Hudson River State Hospital to work since he is a conscientious objectors to the war. He is trying to make up for all his not quite so honorable actions back home at Sunrise.
Christine is trying to be a good daughter and take care of her parents since her father was injured in World War 1.
This book is a book full of heartaches and forgiveness and Love. Yes, this book made me experience many emotions which is what a good story does!
This book is really wonderful and the characters are truly human. I absolutely loved the ending and am anxiously awaiting book 3 in this series (The Promise Of Sunrise Series). This book is getting five stars!
I was given a copy of the book by the author for my honest review!
January 22, 2015
I've read a lot of Amish books. Mostly by Beverly Lewis. I've read about 9 of her books. I just love her Amish books. I love how her writing just draws you in. And I love how she incorporates the Amish way of life. While keeping you fully engrossed in her stories.
This is the first book that I've read by Elizabeth Byler Younts...
The way she wrote about he Amish... was different. I felt the way she wrote about the amish...It had a relaxing feel to it. It wasn't so strict.
Had a really modern feel to it. I liked that... I thought the book flowed good. The writing was ok for me.
But....I'm sorry.... I'm going to have to go against all the 5 star reviews on this one.
I could not stand Christine at all. The way she acted was just soooo cold. She was really rude. She was a very selfish person. She only thought about herself. And she really didn't care about anyone's feelings but her own.
Everything about her just rubbed me the wrong way!!
Yes... I felt bad for her. No one should have to go through what she went through ever. Jack was a creep right from the beginning.
What really got to me was how Christine treated Eli. Right from then beginning.... when Christine met Eli... She wasn't very Christianly!! The nerve she has to talk or say things like to someone she just met... Just put me off to her.
And he was so nice. He got upset but never took it out on her and just went with it.
Eli I think saved this book for me. I just loved him. He wasn't your typical Amish boy. He was really opened minded. And I loved that. It made this story real for me. The way he went with the flow with things.
I could not stand his brother Mark! Or the crazy Matilda! That girl could not take a hint!
I wish Eli would have confronted his dad about all the land that was suppose to be his. And just overall why he was treated the way he was by his family.
And the only thing that bugged me about Eli was... I felt sometimes he did string Matilda along. He let a lot go...when it came to her.
And things just got out of hand with her. He should have just kept writing her that he just wanted to be friends. I think she needed that.... Constant reminding.
Because her imagination got the best of her.
I felt like the whole Jack thing was glazed on over. I would have liked to know what his family thought about the situation he created with Christine. And I would have liked to see justice been served with all the other girls he mistreated.
Overall... This was an ok read for me. I just loved Eli. And I'm glad he got his HEA.
*ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley*
-Michelle
This is the first book that I've read by Elizabeth Byler Younts...
The way she wrote about he Amish... was different. I felt the way she wrote about the amish...It had a relaxing feel to it. It wasn't so strict.
Had a really modern feel to it. I liked that... I thought the book flowed good. The writing was ok for me.
But....I'm sorry.... I'm going to have to go against all the 5 star reviews on this one.
I could not stand Christine at all. The way she acted was just soooo cold. She was really rude. She was a very selfish person. She only thought about herself. And she really didn't care about anyone's feelings but her own.
Everything about her just rubbed me the wrong way!!
Yes... I felt bad for her. No one should have to go through what she went through ever. Jack was a creep right from the beginning.
What really got to me was how Christine treated Eli. Right from then beginning.... when Christine met Eli... She wasn't very Christianly!! The nerve she has to talk or say things like to someone she just met... Just put me off to her.
And he was so nice. He got upset but never took it out on her and just went with it.
Eli I think saved this book for me. I just loved him. He wasn't your typical Amish boy. He was really opened minded. And I loved that. It made this story real for me. The way he went with the flow with things.
I could not stand his brother Mark! Or the crazy Matilda! That girl could not take a hint!
I wish Eli would have confronted his dad about all the land that was suppose to be his. And just overall why he was treated the way he was by his family.
And the only thing that bugged me about Eli was... I felt sometimes he did string Matilda along. He let a lot go...when it came to her.
And things just got out of hand with her. He should have just kept writing her that he just wanted to be friends. I think she needed that.... Constant reminding.
Because her imagination got the best of her.
I felt like the whole Jack thing was glazed on over. I would have liked to know what his family thought about the situation he created with Christine. And I would have liked to see justice been served with all the other girls he mistreated.
Overall... This was an ok read for me. I just loved Eli. And I'm glad he got his HEA.
*ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley*
-Michelle
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews