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The Outcast
Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most. She is eventually coerced into leaving by her brother-in-law, the bishop. But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachel's baby is at stake, however, choices must be made that will bring the darkness to light, forever changing the lives of those who call Copper Creek home.
471 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2013
187 people are currently reading
2725 people want to read
About the author
Jolina Petersheim
11 books565 followersJolina Petersheim is a best-selling author pursuing beauty and truth, one word at a time. Her five published novels have received wide critical acclaim as well as numerous accolades including wins and nominations for prestigious industry awards, starred reviews, spots on year-end “Best Of” and on seasonal “Top 10” lists. In addition, her non-fiction writing has been featured by many print and online outlets. Jolina and her husband share the same unique Amish and Mennonite heritage that originated in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, though they now hobby homestead in the mountains of Tennessee with their four young daughters. Visit her at ModernMarmee/Substack.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 333 reviews
July 11, 2013
Let me start by saying...I don't pick Amish fiction to read for pleasure. It's not my style and I usually avoid it. Don't ask me why--I really don't even know. I just don't. LOL! BUT this book called to me. It said "give me a try" and I admit I was curious about the Nathaniel Hawthorne link.
So I gave The Outcast a try...
The Amish/Mennonite community setting for this book works perfectly. Especially since it is set in modern times! It would have been impossible to pull off a strict old order society any other way. So that was brilliantly done.
I actually want to go back and re-read The Scarlet Letter now just to compare the stories!
One of the first things you will notice about this book is the narrative voice--We see two "voices" in this book. The primary voice is that of the principle character Rachel. We "see" her thoughts, emotions, actions... everything through her telling of events. It's the second voice that is unusual as it is in the form of Amos, a newly deceased father of two of the other characters. And I do mean newly deceased. He is being buried in the first chapter! LOL! He seems to speak on behalf of his two son's Tobias and Jacob (both of whom are the main men of the story) and chimes in little random comments to help the reader get to know them more clearly. But I admit it took me a while to "get" him and his purpose to the story....I'm not sure I could even explain it. You just have to read it to understand.
The two lead females in this story are aptly named Rachel and Leah--identical twin sisters. Rachel moved in with Leah and her husband to help after Leah gives birth and is on bedrest. It is while she is living with her sister that everything (and by that--I mean THE incident) happens. In fact, the story seems to progress almost backwards in time as it starts AFTER Rachel's illegitimate baby is born and is several months old. And from there it slowly adds pieces of the past events in until you finally see everything clearly. It's a very clever way to tell the story.
This story tackles so much within it's pages. Not only do we get an in depth view of the Amish life (which the author clearly knows backwards and forwards) but it explores the complexities of lust, sin, betrayal, family loyalties, single parenting, conflict between medicine and religion, repentance and forgiveness. Talk about a griping story!
Did I mention the added layer of a mother having to deal with childhood cancer in her baby? That aspect alone held me captive!
Even once I had determined for myself the answer to the burning question "Who is the father of Rachel's baby?" I didn't put it down--and not just because it wasn't over yet! No, by that time, I was rooting for some characters, hating others...not to mention cheering and crying as more of the plot unfolded.
And I do mean crying---there were times I just had tears trickling down my cheeks while I read.
The story ends with a definite twist (you won't see it coming!) but with a very satisfactory resolution.
This book would not be my typical selection off the shelf--but anytime I become emotionally involved with the characters, I have to give the book a perfect score! The Outcast most definitely earned 5 out of 5 stars with me and I am eager to see what comes next from the author!
If you like Amish Inspirational fiction--you will LOVE this book.
If you don't like Amish fiction, but enjoy inspirational fiction in general--I think you will still LOVE this book.
I applaud Ms. Petersheim for taking on multiple issues and not letting them get away from her. This book is NOT a light read--but well worth your time and emotional investment.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Press as part of their book review bloggers program. All opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
So I gave The Outcast a try...
The Amish/Mennonite community setting for this book works perfectly. Especially since it is set in modern times! It would have been impossible to pull off a strict old order society any other way. So that was brilliantly done.
I actually want to go back and re-read The Scarlet Letter now just to compare the stories!
One of the first things you will notice about this book is the narrative voice--We see two "voices" in this book. The primary voice is that of the principle character Rachel. We "see" her thoughts, emotions, actions... everything through her telling of events. It's the second voice that is unusual as it is in the form of Amos, a newly deceased father of two of the other characters. And I do mean newly deceased. He is being buried in the first chapter! LOL! He seems to speak on behalf of his two son's Tobias and Jacob (both of whom are the main men of the story) and chimes in little random comments to help the reader get to know them more clearly. But I admit it took me a while to "get" him and his purpose to the story....I'm not sure I could even explain it. You just have to read it to understand.
The two lead females in this story are aptly named Rachel and Leah--identical twin sisters. Rachel moved in with Leah and her husband to help after Leah gives birth and is on bedrest. It is while she is living with her sister that everything (and by that--I mean THE incident) happens. In fact, the story seems to progress almost backwards in time as it starts AFTER Rachel's illegitimate baby is born and is several months old. And from there it slowly adds pieces of the past events in until you finally see everything clearly. It's a very clever way to tell the story.
This story tackles so much within it's pages. Not only do we get an in depth view of the Amish life (which the author clearly knows backwards and forwards) but it explores the complexities of lust, sin, betrayal, family loyalties, single parenting, conflict between medicine and religion, repentance and forgiveness. Talk about a griping story!
Did I mention the added layer of a mother having to deal with childhood cancer in her baby? That aspect alone held me captive!
Even once I had determined for myself the answer to the burning question "Who is the father of Rachel's baby?" I didn't put it down--and not just because it wasn't over yet! No, by that time, I was rooting for some characters, hating others...not to mention cheering and crying as more of the plot unfolded.
And I do mean crying---there were times I just had tears trickling down my cheeks while I read.
The story ends with a definite twist (you won't see it coming!) but with a very satisfactory resolution.
This book would not be my typical selection off the shelf--but anytime I become emotionally involved with the characters, I have to give the book a perfect score! The Outcast most definitely earned 5 out of 5 stars with me and I am eager to see what comes next from the author!
If you like Amish Inspirational fiction--you will LOVE this book.
If you don't like Amish fiction, but enjoy inspirational fiction in general--I think you will still LOVE this book.
I applaud Ms. Petersheim for taking on multiple issues and not letting them get away from her. This book is NOT a light read--but well worth your time and emotional investment.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Press as part of their book review bloggers program. All opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
June 30, 2015
Jolina Petersheim’s debut novel, The Outcast, truly transcends genre, telling a story of betrayal, legalism and jealousy, but, more importantly, of hope, healing and forgiveness. The layered plot & multi-faceted characters combined with a poetic, lyrical writing style give this novel an unexpected edgy and realistic quality that is not often found in novels of this setting.
Set in an Old Order Mennonite community, this story touches on themes of legalistic religion versus tolerant forgiveness, strained family relationships and even modern-day medicine versus holistic approaches. As the mother of an illegitimate child, Rachel Stoltzfus is at the scrutiny of the people in her community. Her decision to leave Eli’s father nameless ensures that the bigotry lands solely on her shoulders, and the lies and betrayal are left to fester underneath the surface. When her son needs life-saving medical help, the circumstances of his birth come to a head with nearly soul-shattering results.
Rachel’s personal narration is uniquely mirrored by the narration of Amos King, the deceased bishop of her community. His otherworldly perspective adds an unexpected layer to the story and provided the necessary background of past events, including what he feels was his hand in helping his son Tobias cover up his sin as well as his hand in the strained relationship between his son Judas and his older children.
Petersheim’s descriptions were beautiful, epitomizing the idea of showing not telling. As I was reading, I felt what these characters were feeling. My heart was broken and put together again by the situations and people in this story of moving past betrayals to save a child’s life.
There was a wonderful cast of characters that each had a compelling backstory of their own, including prickly Ida Mae, holistic healer Norman Troyer, reputation-obsessed Tobias, steadfast Judah and Rachel’s timid, secret-keeping twin, Leah – they were all truly wonderful. Often how they appeared on the outside was just a façade to cover what was underneath. By the story’s end, I was convicted of my preconceived notions of right & wrong. Ultimately, who was I to judge in the light of true grace and forgiveness?
The ending left me breathless with a twist that I did not see coming. The act of two people perpetuated events with terrible consequences, and they aren’t the two people that you would think at the story’s beginning. The resolution was entirely and realistically satisfying.
Subtle and outstanding, The Outcast immediately moved to my list of all-time favorites. I was so impressed by the seasoned quality Jolina’s writing and am eager to get my hands on her upcoming title The Midwife.
Set in an Old Order Mennonite community, this story touches on themes of legalistic religion versus tolerant forgiveness, strained family relationships and even modern-day medicine versus holistic approaches. As the mother of an illegitimate child, Rachel Stoltzfus is at the scrutiny of the people in her community. Her decision to leave Eli’s father nameless ensures that the bigotry lands solely on her shoulders, and the lies and betrayal are left to fester underneath the surface. When her son needs life-saving medical help, the circumstances of his birth come to a head with nearly soul-shattering results.
Rachel’s personal narration is uniquely mirrored by the narration of Amos King, the deceased bishop of her community. His otherworldly perspective adds an unexpected layer to the story and provided the necessary background of past events, including what he feels was his hand in helping his son Tobias cover up his sin as well as his hand in the strained relationship between his son Judas and his older children.
Petersheim’s descriptions were beautiful, epitomizing the idea of showing not telling. As I was reading, I felt what these characters were feeling. My heart was broken and put together again by the situations and people in this story of moving past betrayals to save a child’s life.
There was a wonderful cast of characters that each had a compelling backstory of their own, including prickly Ida Mae, holistic healer Norman Troyer, reputation-obsessed Tobias, steadfast Judah and Rachel’s timid, secret-keeping twin, Leah – they were all truly wonderful. Often how they appeared on the outside was just a façade to cover what was underneath. By the story’s end, I was convicted of my preconceived notions of right & wrong. Ultimately, who was I to judge in the light of true grace and forgiveness?
The ending left me breathless with a twist that I did not see coming. The act of two people perpetuated events with terrible consequences, and they aren’t the two people that you would think at the story’s beginning. The resolution was entirely and realistically satisfying.
Subtle and outstanding, The Outcast immediately moved to my list of all-time favorites. I was so impressed by the seasoned quality Jolina’s writing and am eager to get my hands on her upcoming title The Midwife.
May 7, 2025
Although this is the authors first book published, I’d read all of her other books before finally reading this one. Jolina Petersheim has a way of writing dark, heavy and almost haunting stories, while also weaving in faith based themes, with unique redemption at the end. This book was no different, and at times, the sin present and dominating the story was so thick and intense, I almost didn’t think I could read another page. But it was well worth the read, and while the ending didn’t tie up in the way I’d hoped and really hit the mark that redemption doesn’t always mean full reconciliation, it was very well done.
July 5, 2013
Wow! Not since reading Cantrell's "Into the Free," have I been so emotionally moved by a story. There were so many things that this author did well. Her writing style is emotionally evocative, and her words are expressed with such beauty that I became fully immersed in the book. Her use of characters to bring out different truths was sheer perfection. I especially loved how she used Amos's point of view from the "great cloud of witnesses" as a way of showing omniscience, but in a much more compelling fashion that is typically seen in fiction. It added more complexity and depth to the plot and revealed things the reader might otherwise not have known.
The way the author slowly trickled in the facts that led up to the night Rachel's world imploded from one bad decision was extremely well done. It drew my attention like a mystery plot and kept me wondering, until a surge of emotion hit me when the secret was brought to light and the truth finally came out. The serious illness was a perfect conduit to provoke the needed revelation. The suffering Rachel felt while her son suffered was deep and profoundly written.
I loved Judah so much for so many reasons. His undying devotion going back to their childhood made him so heroic in my eyes. The pain he felt and the forgiveness he extended -- after releasing the anger that seemed very natural given the unsavory revelation -- made me want to weep for him. Even Tobias made my heart ache because of the true repentance he experienced. What a difference it can make when we own our actions and stop blaming others for our own sins, eh?
To sum things up, this was a fantastic book. In fact, of all the books that I've read this year, I think this one makes the top of my list. I read this entire book in a day. The premise intrigued me, but I've read many story plots that sounded great, but were weak in their execution. This was a powerful story on many levels. It is not a cookie cutter Amish/Mennonite plot, but unique and enthralling... for me as a reader. I normally won't read fiction about strict religious orders be they Amish or Mennonite, but this book surpassed my expectations. What a fantastic debut!
The way the author slowly trickled in the facts that led up to the night Rachel's world imploded from one bad decision was extremely well done. It drew my attention like a mystery plot and kept me wondering, until a surge of emotion hit me when the secret was brought to light and the truth finally came out. The serious illness was a perfect conduit to provoke the needed revelation. The suffering Rachel felt while her son suffered was deep and profoundly written.
I loved Judah so much for so many reasons. His undying devotion going back to their childhood made him so heroic in my eyes. The pain he felt and the forgiveness he extended -- after releasing the anger that seemed very natural given the unsavory revelation -- made me want to weep for him. Even Tobias made my heart ache because of the true repentance he experienced. What a difference it can make when we own our actions and stop blaming others for our own sins, eh?
To sum things up, this was a fantastic book. In fact, of all the books that I've read this year, I think this one makes the top of my list. I read this entire book in a day. The premise intrigued me, but I've read many story plots that sounded great, but were weak in their execution. This was a powerful story on many levels. It is not a cookie cutter Amish/Mennonite plot, but unique and enthralling... for me as a reader. I normally won't read fiction about strict religious orders be they Amish or Mennonite, but this book surpassed my expectations. What a fantastic debut!
June 24, 2013
THE OUTCAST is one of those rare novels that shines in every way. I was immediately drawn in because “The Scarlet Letter” is such a favorite, and I was not disappointed. Every character, every sub-story, every generation, every relationship in the book, is layered and intricate and nuanced. I could not stop reading—everything about the book took hold and wouldn’t let go—until I finished. It is both intriguing and engrossing. The Mennonite community is completely foreign to me, but Petersheim made it both fascinating yet wholly accessible and familiar. In every scene I felt I was right there with her and every character, and every scene moved the story forward. Even the use of the Rachel’s recently deceased father-in-law as the alternating voice (to Rachel’s) worked perfectly—I was initially a bit skeptical but was drawn in completely. My only complaint is that the book ended a little too quickly. Still, I can’t be sure that my feeling about the quick ending wasn’t simply my complete immersion and love for everything about the book. Five plus stars!
November 3, 2014
I think I ate most of the left over Halloween candy while reading this. I am so glad its over. (I meant the book and not the fact that my Halloween basket is now empty of all candy.)
I think that if a book is touting itself as a modern telling of an old classic, the writing would have to be similar. It wasn't.
This book was all over the place when it came to the narrative. The main narrator was a dead Mennonite bishop, who told you what the characters were feeling, thinking and why. Then the characters also told you what they were thinking, feeling and why. And then they told you what the other characters where thinking, feeling and why. OH MY FREAKING HECK! It felt like a long bus ride with a bunch of teen age girls who didn't get along.
Nothing was left to the imagination. There were bright neon signs all over saying, 'This is what's happening next,' and after it happened there was another neon sign that said, 'Wasn't that great?'
If you particularly like Mennonite/Amish literature, you might like this. The story had potential; it was the writing that was its downfall. So 2 stars.
I think that if a book is touting itself as a modern telling of an old classic, the writing would have to be similar. It wasn't.
This book was all over the place when it came to the narrative. The main narrator was a dead Mennonite bishop, who told you what the characters were feeling, thinking and why. Then the characters also told you what they were thinking, feeling and why. And then they told you what the other characters where thinking, feeling and why. OH MY FREAKING HECK! It felt like a long bus ride with a bunch of teen age girls who didn't get along.
Nothing was left to the imagination. There were bright neon signs all over saying, 'This is what's happening next,' and after it happened there was another neon sign that said, 'Wasn't that great?'
If you particularly like Mennonite/Amish literature, you might like this. The story had potential; it was the writing that was its downfall. So 2 stars.
September 11, 2013
Rachel Stoltzfus has been shunned and removed from her old order Mennonite community. She has born a child out of wedlock and refuses to reveal who the father is. She had left her home in Pennsylvania to care for her twin sister Leah, ill after the birth of her child. Much tension exists between Rachel and Leah's husband Tobias. Unable to return to her home in Pennsylvania due to being shunned by her father, Rachel finds refuge with Ida Mae. Ida Mae has her own secrets and a past filled with pain and loss. They form a bond of deep friendship as Rachel confronts her son's grave illness. As repentance and forgiveness are found and bonds between family strengthened, healing is found. A modern retelling of The Scarlet Letter.
August 30, 2016
I loved. loved, love every second I spent reading this book.
Five pages that I hoped wouldn't be what they were became what they are. Nevertheless, I can't recommend this book highly enough.
I read this book every time I had a few minutes to spare and for long as I could without outside interruptions.
What a story and character weaver this author is - She captured me on page one and held me hostage for the rest of the journey. Lucky me.
I will be looking for any and all other books written or as yet to be published by this author, Jolina Petersheim.
Five pages that I hoped wouldn't be what they were became what they are. Nevertheless, I can't recommend this book highly enough.
I read this book every time I had a few minutes to spare and for long as I could without outside interruptions.
What a story and character weaver this author is - She captured me on page one and held me hostage for the rest of the journey. Lucky me.
I will be looking for any and all other books written or as yet to be published by this author, Jolina Petersheim.
May 11, 2014
"Let men tremble to win the hand of woman, unless they win along with it the utmost passion of her heart. "- The Scarlet Letter
3.5 out of 5 stars
Setting:Copper Creek, Tennessee and Pennsylvania; 2013
Coverly Love?:It's evocative and haunting to the story, but it's rather plain.
Plot:Rachel Stoltzfus is a fallen woman. Being an unmarried, pregnant woman in an Old Order Mennonite community is never a good combination, especially when she refuses to repent her sin AND name the father of her son, Eli. Because of this, she is unceremoniously cast out into the open world by her brother-in-law (and bishop of the community), Tobias. That means that she not only has to leave her mother and father, but her beloved identical twin sister, Leah, who also happens to be married to Tobias. Frightened and alone, she has no one to turn to, with the community she so loved turning her back on her and casting her out into the very overwhelming world of the "English" (that would be us modern day folks). That is, until she meets Ida Mae, the local storeowner of Amish and Mennonite wares. Ida Mae warmly takes Rachel and her young son under wing, and Rachel vows never to return to the community who betrayed her. Until something unspeakable happens to her beloved son. But all is not as it seems in this seemingly idyllic Mennonite community. Secrets run rampant and betrayal run deep. Will Rachel learn to move on after her actions? And will the Copper Creek community learn to forgive?
I never had the pleasure (or pain) of reading the Scarlet Letter by Nathanial Hawthorne (I didn't take AP lit junior year of high school; otherwise that would have been the case). But I thoroughly enjoyed this story of betrayal, love, redemption, and ultimately forgiveness. The author did a wonderful job by placing the story in a Mennonite community. I live in Southern California, and we don't have any Amish or Mennonite communities where I live, so I don't know exactly how they operate. I do know that they certainly would have a difference of opinion of having a child without getting married. So in hindsight, this is the perfect setting for a retelling like this. The characters were very human. Perfect? Not by any means. Human? Yes. I loved watching the characters learn and grow from their mistakes, even if it seemed to take ages for them to do so. The descriptions in the book are very evocative and lush, and the imagery the author conveys in some scenes is very haunting.
Characters:Rachel is the Hester of our story. Feisty, independent, and always one to march to the beat of her own drum, her devotion to Eli is unfailing and her desire to keep the identity of the father secret is unrelenting. She could be extremely stubborn, bullheaded and sometimes unforgiving in her pursuits, but can you really blame her? Everyone she loves has turned against her, and she has literally no one to turn to. Rachel also has a significant emotional bond with her identical twin sister Leah, which I enjoyed reading about. Having never had a sister, I've never experienced a sibling bond, but I've heard the bond between twins is a special, magical kind of kinship. Rachel would also do anything for her son, and feels enormously guilty that all the troubles he has to face may have been caused by her sinful behavior.
Leah is Rachel's twin sister. Leah has always played second fiddle to Rachel, with her twin getting all the affection from her father and all the boys wanting to court her. That left poor little Leah being ignored by both her father and the men who are only interested in Rachel. While that part may be a bit hard for readers to comprehend (they are identical twins, after all; it's not like they look drastically different), Leah is the equivalent of a perfect Mennonite wife. Content to stay at home and be a dutiful wife and mother, Leah also has significant health problems due to a complicated childbirth. She's also the one person within Copper Creek to stand by her sister's side no matter what the scenario.
Tobias... where do I even begin with this man? He's Leah's husband and the bishop of the community. . I found him to be a despicable, hypocritical lout, only concerned about maintaining his squeaky clean image. Blinded by jealousy and lust, he is very calculating and manipulative to the people around him, and his obsession with Rachel is extremely unhealthy, bordering on creepy. Ugh, I did not like him AT ALL.
Ida Mae was my favorite character of the entire book. The comic relief of sorts, she's a maternal figure to Rachel and willingly lets her have a job at her shop and takes care of her and Eli as well. Ida also is a shunned member of the community, though we don't find out until later. Some readers may find her to be a bit brash, but I found her unflinching honesty to be refreshing. I also loved her sense of humor!!
Pros:The setting was brilliant, and the traditions of the Mennonites were very well-researched. It probably helped that the author has ties to that community, but that made it all the more authentic. The pacing was perfectly executed, and the character development was decent for the most part. And for those readers concerned with the potential preachy nature of this book, this book is not overly preachy at all.
Cons:Well, the narration style was a little confusing at first. Rachel narrates part of story, and a man named Amos narrates the other part. It took me FOREVER to figure out who the heck Amos was. .
The major con I had with this book was the use of the German language. Throughout the book, there were German words, phrases and songs used. While it did add a nice touch of authenticity to the story, this book could have really used a glossary of terms to help the reader understand and translate what the words meant. I went to a private K-1 school as a child, and we had to take German, Spanish and sign language as a requirement (mind, you, we were only taught very basic phrases). I do still remember quite a lot, but by no means am I fluent. I also have some friends who are from Germany, but they also had a hard time translating the words and phrases. Why? Old Order Mennonite and Amish German is different than regular modern German. So a glossary of what the terms actually mean would have been extremely helpful!
Love triangle?:Yes; Tobias vs. Leah vs. Rachel, and Tibias vs. Rachel vs. Judah. Judah is Tobias's younger brother by twelve years, and Tobias absolutely hates him. He's also Rachel's best friend.
Instalove?:For both of the brothers, yes. Tobias falls into insta-love/lust/obsession with Rachel, and Judah has always loved Rachel, from the time they were children.
A Little Romance?:For such a quaint Mennonite community, passions certainly run deep here! Tobias's sexual obsession with Rachel is all-consuming and frightening at times. Judah is an absolute sweetheart who truly loves Rachel, even if it takes her a while to reciprocate. Ida Mae has many romances brewing with her, and poor Leah is just trying to keep up with the Joneses in the romantic department.
Conclusion:I thoroughly enjoyed reading this retelling of The Scarlet Letter. Though I have not read the original, I loved this unique perspective on the story set in modern times, yet it felt like a whole different time period all together. It's an original take on a classic novel, and it was overall a solid debut novel by an up and coming author!!
Read This!:The Scarlet Letter by Nathanial Hawthorne!
April 20, 2019
Ok. Not really bad but not as good as other books I’d give a 3. So maybe 2.5. I did not at all enjoy the constant narration of the deceased bishop, father of the two main male characters. It bordered on creepy. It was unnecessary. I would have preferred all characters doing their own POV and skipped the first person of Rachel, and I normally don’t mind first person. Overall awkward. Favorite character... Ida Mae.
February 10, 2014
"He shakes his head and smiles, swallows his small mouthful of food. For a country-raised Mennonite, he has impeccable manners, which only emphasizes my belief that you can look the part of the honored bishop but still be a barbarian inside."
Written in an engaging combination of voices, Jolina Petersheim’s stunning debut novel, The Outcast, tells the story of a young Mennonite woman battling a secret foe, one whose position in their community offers him the perfect opportunity to hurt her, and keep her from his younger brother, Judah, the man she is meant to be with.
The two brothers are “Bout as different as Cain and Abel,” to quote Ida Mae.
"Judah and I had our own secret language, and sheathed in its safety, he would often confide how desperately he wanted to leave this world for the larger one beyond it. A world he had explored only through the books he would purchase at Root’s Market when his father wasn’t looking and read until the pages were sticky with the sweat of a thousand secret turnings."
The setting is a Pennsylvania Dutch Mennonite community. Rachel, Leah’s twin, is unmarried, but she has delivered a son out of wedlock, a shunning offense in their small community. She refuses to reveal the identity of the father. There is more behind her refusal than simply wanting to protect the man. Leah, her twin, is married to a pillar in the community; a bishop, whose dark, disapproval and obvious dislike of Rachel contribute to her being thrown out to live in the world of the Englischer. There Rachel is befriended by Ida Mae:
"Ida Mae hops down out of the cab. I look over while freeing Eli from his car seat and stifle a gasp. This is the first time I’ve seen her outside the truck, and I never noticed that she was short. Her legs, squashed into Wranglers so tight they must be cutting off her circulation, are the same as a chicken’s: plump at the top but narrowing down to ankles that are as bony as mine. She wears mud-caked boots that lace up, and as she stalks off toward her Amish store, I see there’s a perfect worn circle on the backside of her jeans from where she keeps her tobacco tin."
Ida Mae has a tragic secret, buried for years. Rachel uncovers hints of what it might be, but never comes close to imagining the truth until her own son is in danger. The full force of what Ida Mae has survived comes to light, revealing the ultimate clash of the Englischer and Plain worlds.
In early reviews The Outcast has been compared to Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter. There is a strong thematic resemblance, but it also shares a lot in common structurally with Alice Sebold’s The Lovely Bones, in that it is narrated, in part, by a ghost. Amos is a thoroughly likable elder who has passed, but his concern for his family draws him back again and again to watch over them. His poignant perspective is saddened by what he can no longer influence or correct, and the reader feels his regret build as events unfold. He can see into the hearts of the other characters, but is unable to do anything to help, his time on earth being over. His narration adds a level of depth that would be missing without him.
The Outcast offers a glimpse into a world that exists separately, yet right alongside the common one of TVs, cars and computers. The plot has tension from start to finish, some nice twists, and a good surprise ending that will have the reader chewing her nails. Petersheim has a surprisingly mature voice and writing style for a young author. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and look forward to this author’s next.
Written in an engaging combination of voices, Jolina Petersheim’s stunning debut novel, The Outcast, tells the story of a young Mennonite woman battling a secret foe, one whose position in their community offers him the perfect opportunity to hurt her, and keep her from his younger brother, Judah, the man she is meant to be with.
The two brothers are “Bout as different as Cain and Abel,” to quote Ida Mae.
"Judah and I had our own secret language, and sheathed in its safety, he would often confide how desperately he wanted to leave this world for the larger one beyond it. A world he had explored only through the books he would purchase at Root’s Market when his father wasn’t looking and read until the pages were sticky with the sweat of a thousand secret turnings."
The setting is a Pennsylvania Dutch Mennonite community. Rachel, Leah’s twin, is unmarried, but she has delivered a son out of wedlock, a shunning offense in their small community. She refuses to reveal the identity of the father. There is more behind her refusal than simply wanting to protect the man. Leah, her twin, is married to a pillar in the community; a bishop, whose dark, disapproval and obvious dislike of Rachel contribute to her being thrown out to live in the world of the Englischer. There Rachel is befriended by Ida Mae:
"Ida Mae hops down out of the cab. I look over while freeing Eli from his car seat and stifle a gasp. This is the first time I’ve seen her outside the truck, and I never noticed that she was short. Her legs, squashed into Wranglers so tight they must be cutting off her circulation, are the same as a chicken’s: plump at the top but narrowing down to ankles that are as bony as mine. She wears mud-caked boots that lace up, and as she stalks off toward her Amish store, I see there’s a perfect worn circle on the backside of her jeans from where she keeps her tobacco tin."
Ida Mae has a tragic secret, buried for years. Rachel uncovers hints of what it might be, but never comes close to imagining the truth until her own son is in danger. The full force of what Ida Mae has survived comes to light, revealing the ultimate clash of the Englischer and Plain worlds.
In early reviews The Outcast has been compared to Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter. There is a strong thematic resemblance, but it also shares a lot in common structurally with Alice Sebold’s The Lovely Bones, in that it is narrated, in part, by a ghost. Amos is a thoroughly likable elder who has passed, but his concern for his family draws him back again and again to watch over them. His poignant perspective is saddened by what he can no longer influence or correct, and the reader feels his regret build as events unfold. He can see into the hearts of the other characters, but is unable to do anything to help, his time on earth being over. His narration adds a level of depth that would be missing without him.
The Outcast offers a glimpse into a world that exists separately, yet right alongside the common one of TVs, cars and computers. The plot has tension from start to finish, some nice twists, and a good surprise ending that will have the reader chewing her nails. Petersheim has a surprisingly mature voice and writing style for a young author. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and look forward to this author’s next.
July 17, 2013
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The story begins midpoint. Rachel has already given birth to her child, and is already feeling the scorn of her Mennonite community. Her parents are not there with her, she had come to TN to help her twin sister while she was on bedrest. From the their beginning you realize the scorn her brother-in-law, Tobias King feels for her--how desperately he wants her out of his home. The first chance he gets he sends her on her way, separating her from her twin. Rachel begins to make a new life for her and her son, but soon finds herself needing those she has left behind. Is there a way to help her? Will Tobias allow her sister, Leah to help?
THE OUTCAST is a story that gets better and better with each page. Told in alternating voice of Rachel and the 'all seeing all knowing' Amos (Tobias' father who has recently passed away). When I first started reading the story, I felt like how is this a modern day retelling when the backdrop of the story is a Mennonite community? The way Petersheim weaves the two worlds together really really surprised me. When I was reading I felt a sense of how it would be for them to move in between their two world. I felt such compassion for Rachel and her sister, and I found myself surprised near the ending feeling compassion for Tobias. I loved all of the characters, I couldn't get enough of this book. I didn't want to put it down, I didn't want it to end.
You are going to love this book. Be ready to enter an amazing new world, but make sure you have a box of kleenex for this journey. I am highly recommending THE OUTCAST!
The story begins midpoint. Rachel has already given birth to her child, and is already feeling the scorn of her Mennonite community. Her parents are not there with her, she had come to TN to help her twin sister while she was on bedrest. From the their beginning you realize the scorn her brother-in-law, Tobias King feels for her--how desperately he wants her out of his home. The first chance he gets he sends her on her way, separating her from her twin. Rachel begins to make a new life for her and her son, but soon finds herself needing those she has left behind. Is there a way to help her? Will Tobias allow her sister, Leah to help?
THE OUTCAST is a story that gets better and better with each page. Told in alternating voice of Rachel and the 'all seeing all knowing' Amos (Tobias' father who has recently passed away). When I first started reading the story, I felt like how is this a modern day retelling when the backdrop of the story is a Mennonite community? The way Petersheim weaves the two worlds together really really surprised me. When I was reading I felt a sense of how it would be for them to move in between their two world. I felt such compassion for Rachel and her sister, and I found myself surprised near the ending feeling compassion for Tobias. I loved all of the characters, I couldn't get enough of this book. I didn't want to put it down, I didn't want it to end.
You are going to love this book. Be ready to enter an amazing new world, but make sure you have a box of kleenex for this journey. I am highly recommending THE OUTCAST!
October 5, 2013
According to the cover on this book, this story is a modern day retelling of The Scarlet Letter. I know a little bit of what that story is about, but I have never read it, so I can't really say how this book compares. I can say though, that I thoroughly enjoyed this well written story, and you do not even have to be familiar with The Scarlet Letter before reading The Outcast; this story stands alone well.
Rachel Stoltzfus was raised in an Old Order Mennonite community. While she is living with her sister Leah and her husband Tobias after Leah suffers from health complications after giving birth to her first child, Rachel herself gives birth to a child out of wedlock. She is shunned by the community after refusing to name the father, and Tobias, who is also the bishop, forces her to leave. Rachel is strong-willed, and content living away from the community with Ida Mae Speck, the eccentric storekeeper who takes her and her infant son Eli in. But when Eli is diagnosed with a life threatening illness, choices must be made that will bring dark secrets into the light, forever changing the lives of those involved.
What I enjoyed most about this story was that it is not your typical Amish/Mennonite fiction; while it includes themes of hope, redemption and forgiveness, the tone of the story doesn't feel religious or "preachy" like some books of this genre do. I also liked Ida Mae's story; it had an unexpected twist in the early part of the book and I was just as interested in her back story as I was Rachel's.
Rachel Stoltzfus was raised in an Old Order Mennonite community. While she is living with her sister Leah and her husband Tobias after Leah suffers from health complications after giving birth to her first child, Rachel herself gives birth to a child out of wedlock. She is shunned by the community after refusing to name the father, and Tobias, who is also the bishop, forces her to leave. Rachel is strong-willed, and content living away from the community with Ida Mae Speck, the eccentric storekeeper who takes her and her infant son Eli in. But when Eli is diagnosed with a life threatening illness, choices must be made that will bring dark secrets into the light, forever changing the lives of those involved.
What I enjoyed most about this story was that it is not your typical Amish/Mennonite fiction; while it includes themes of hope, redemption and forgiveness, the tone of the story doesn't feel religious or "preachy" like some books of this genre do. I also liked Ida Mae's story; it had an unexpected twist in the early part of the book and I was just as interested in her back story as I was Rachel's.
January 1, 2015
SUMMARY: Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most. She is eventually coerced into leaving by her brother-in-law, the bishop.
But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachel's baby is at stake, however, choices must be made that will bring the darkness to light, forever changing the lives of those who call Copper Creek home.
REVIEW: This complex story filled with in-depth characters and a story line based on The Scarlet Letter kept my attention from beginning to end. I especially liked the role Amos played in giving his perspective from beyond the grave. The twisted relationships between twins Rachel and Leah (quite appropriately named) and brothers Tobias and Judah were well developed. Rough old Ida Mae was a delight and with her background experience played the role of Rachel's mentor/mother very well. The author's medical research regarding Eli's cancer and bone marrow transplant was excellent. I look forward to reading more from Jolina Petersheim.
But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachel's baby is at stake, however, choices must be made that will bring the darkness to light, forever changing the lives of those who call Copper Creek home.
REVIEW: This complex story filled with in-depth characters and a story line based on The Scarlet Letter kept my attention from beginning to end. I especially liked the role Amos played in giving his perspective from beyond the grave. The twisted relationships between twins Rachel and Leah (quite appropriately named) and brothers Tobias and Judah were well developed. Rough old Ida Mae was a delight and with her background experience played the role of Rachel's mentor/mother very well. The author's medical research regarding Eli's cancer and bone marrow transplant was excellent. I look forward to reading more from Jolina Petersheim.
October 2, 2013
From the moment I heard the premise of this book I wanted to read it (the retelling of Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter). Although it has an Amish-looking cover, there was something intriguing about it that set it apart. I gave the sample a try and found it breathtaking. Jolina's writing shines bright in this gripping story of twin sisters, one married, the other with an infant born out of wedlock and adamant about not revealing who the father is. I enjoyed the alternate points of view as Amos observes from heaven the goings-on below, adding depth and complexity while shedding light at just the right moments. The immersion into Old World Mennonite culture gave the story a historical feel, but the modern day setting with advanced medicine and technology gave it its drive and had me completely immersed from beginning to end. Jolina Petersheim is a storyteller of excellence and an author I know I will follow.
July 2, 2013
What a wonderful story!! This one actually gets 6 or 7 stars; it is a "must read." I am eagerly looking forward to the release of Jolina Petersheim's next book, "The Midwife," scheduled for release in the summer of 2014.
January 8, 2026
“You have sinned in haste. Now you must repent at leisure”
“His thoughts had been left to their own sinister devices for so long, now that he wanted to rein them in and take control he found that he had no control”
These lines will live with me for a long time. Jolina Petersheim’s the outcast reminds us that sin occurs first in our thoughts and if we do not wrestle these thoughts, they will bloom.
“His thoughts had been left to their own sinister devices for so long, now that he wanted to rein them in and take control he found that he had no control”
These lines will live with me for a long time. Jolina Petersheim’s the outcast reminds us that sin occurs first in our thoughts and if we do not wrestle these thoughts, they will bloom.
July 3, 2013
This book caught my eye with its subtitle naming it as a modern retelling of the Scarlet Letter. I reluctantly loved the required reading in High School and reveled over the symbolism throughout. When I picked up this book I was immediately drawn in by my previous love, but quickly won over to this new telling of the familiar story. Rachel is a young Mennonite girl with a secret. She is with child and not about to reveal the father's name. So as a result, she carries the burden of the guilt of her sin alone. Then she is forced from the life she has always known while at the same time her young son becomes ill with a mystery ailment that threatens to claim his young life. Can she handle this on her own apart from the community she has relied on her entire life? Or is there a greater objective at work steering her towards the repentance that she knows she must seek?
The original story is rampant with sins that cannot be undone and as we all learn we cannot relive our mistakes. What I love about The Outcast is that as Christians we know that redemption can be found and forgiveness sought. The story told reminds us that hatred and bitterness can scar our lives, but there is a better way and regret can only cause us to live in a stumbling numb version of the life we are capable of living.
I received a free copy of this book in return for a review from Tyndale House Publishers.
Read the first few pages here.
Learn more about the author.
June 26, 2013
About the Book:
Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most. She is eventually coerced into leaving by her brother-in-law, the bishop.
But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachel’s baby is at stake, however, choices must be made that will bring the darkness to light, forever changing the lives of those who call Copper Creek home.
About the Author:
Jolina Petersheim holds degrees in English and Communication Arts from the University of the Cumberlands. Though The Outcast is her first novel, her writing has been featured in venues as varied as radio programs, nonfiction books, and numerous online and print publications. Her blog is syndicated with The Tennessean's "On Nashville" blog roll, as well as featured on other creative writing sites. Jolina and her husband share the same unique Amish and Mennonite heritage that originated in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, but now live in the mountains of Tennessee with their young daughter. Follow Jolina and her blog at http://www.jolinapetersheim.com/.
My Review:
Based on the classic of The Scarlet Letter but with a modern day twist this book just happens to be Jolina Petersheim's first novel. I had never heard of her until this novel crossed my path. But I would have to say that she has a great future ahead of her. Her story created before my eyes a beautiful scene that lead to the richness of the story for me. Rachel Stoltzfus found herself in a very awkward position. She wanted to remain true to her faith and all that meant, but unfortunately in her Old Order Mennonite community it is virtually impossible to be accepted as an unwed mother.
Her twin sister Leah, offered to let her stay with her and her family to give her a place of refuge but Leah's husband was only going to let that last so long before he wanted her to leave. What is she going to do? Where is she going to go? Her own family has turned her away and not only that but she refuses to name the father of the child she will soon bear. Soon God will intervene and cause everyone to choose a side.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me at no charge for my honest review from Tyndale Publishers.
Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most. She is eventually coerced into leaving by her brother-in-law, the bishop.
But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachel’s baby is at stake, however, choices must be made that will bring the darkness to light, forever changing the lives of those who call Copper Creek home.
About the Author:
Jolina Petersheim holds degrees in English and Communication Arts from the University of the Cumberlands. Though The Outcast is her first novel, her writing has been featured in venues as varied as radio programs, nonfiction books, and numerous online and print publications. Her blog is syndicated with The Tennessean's "On Nashville" blog roll, as well as featured on other creative writing sites. Jolina and her husband share the same unique Amish and Mennonite heritage that originated in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, but now live in the mountains of Tennessee with their young daughter. Follow Jolina and her blog at http://www.jolinapetersheim.com/.
My Review:
Based on the classic of The Scarlet Letter but with a modern day twist this book just happens to be Jolina Petersheim's first novel. I had never heard of her until this novel crossed my path. But I would have to say that she has a great future ahead of her. Her story created before my eyes a beautiful scene that lead to the richness of the story for me. Rachel Stoltzfus found herself in a very awkward position. She wanted to remain true to her faith and all that meant, but unfortunately in her Old Order Mennonite community it is virtually impossible to be accepted as an unwed mother.
Her twin sister Leah, offered to let her stay with her and her family to give her a place of refuge but Leah's husband was only going to let that last so long before he wanted her to leave. What is she going to do? Where is she going to go? Her own family has turned her away and not only that but she refuses to name the father of the child she will soon bear. Soon God will intervene and cause everyone to choose a side.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me at no charge for my honest review from Tyndale Publishers.
August 29, 2013
I’ve been a fan of Jolina Petersheim’s exquisitely written blog for years, and we’ve become good friends with shared writing interests – and, as it turns out, some Pennsylvania similarities. To say I was excited about her debut is an understatement.
It’s uncanny that when I began reading The Outcast, I was actually in my native Pennsylvania, an area that – over the past few years – has grown to be the home of many Amish from the Lancaster, PA area (from which Jolina’s family hails). Growing up, only one Amish family lived near us, but as I was reading on the front porch during a recent visit, I looked up many times and saw horses and buggies clopping by the driveway as I was reading about horses and buggies and shunning and hummingbird cakes and supp and Englischer doctors and so much more. Ironically a trip to the other side of my own family clan, further south in PA, yielded even more Amish buggies (also transplanted from Lancaster).
It was absolutely fascinating to read more about the culture while I was so physically close to the people of this culture (and learn about real-life bishops who have fallen from grace - from my uncle). Jolina weaves a tale of betrayal, passion, heartache, and redemption reminiscent of Hawthorne’s Scarlet Letter. With a skillful hand, she shares the Mennonite/Amish culture of shunning, but also the lesser-know temptations of the flesh that taunt even the seemingly idyllic Amish/Mennonite communities.
This story, with its twists and turns, will have you wringing your hands and guessing, and wondering until the very end. Twins Rachel and Leah, Bishop Tobias, Judah, and Ida Mae are characters I won’t soon forget. I always love reading a book that teaches me something new. This glimpse into the community that was so close to my childhood home, but so far away, was truly a gift.
And I love books with beautiful words. In this respect, the author did not disappoint:
“The waning crescent flickers through the trees hardly budded with enough foliage to shield their skeletal forms. Through this filtered luminosity, I can see the ravine – no more than a darkened slash in the earth – yawning open to a cliff whittled from shale.”
I’m looking forward to the author’s upcoming work and to learning more about her family’s heritage.
It’s uncanny that when I began reading The Outcast, I was actually in my native Pennsylvania, an area that – over the past few years – has grown to be the home of many Amish from the Lancaster, PA area (from which Jolina’s family hails). Growing up, only one Amish family lived near us, but as I was reading on the front porch during a recent visit, I looked up many times and saw horses and buggies clopping by the driveway as I was reading about horses and buggies and shunning and hummingbird cakes and supp and Englischer doctors and so much more. Ironically a trip to the other side of my own family clan, further south in PA, yielded even more Amish buggies (also transplanted from Lancaster).
It was absolutely fascinating to read more about the culture while I was so physically close to the people of this culture (and learn about real-life bishops who have fallen from grace - from my uncle). Jolina weaves a tale of betrayal, passion, heartache, and redemption reminiscent of Hawthorne’s Scarlet Letter. With a skillful hand, she shares the Mennonite/Amish culture of shunning, but also the lesser-know temptations of the flesh that taunt even the seemingly idyllic Amish/Mennonite communities.
This story, with its twists and turns, will have you wringing your hands and guessing, and wondering until the very end. Twins Rachel and Leah, Bishop Tobias, Judah, and Ida Mae are characters I won’t soon forget. I always love reading a book that teaches me something new. This glimpse into the community that was so close to my childhood home, but so far away, was truly a gift.
And I love books with beautiful words. In this respect, the author did not disappoint:
“The waning crescent flickers through the trees hardly budded with enough foliage to shield their skeletal forms. Through this filtered luminosity, I can see the ravine – no more than a darkened slash in the earth – yawning open to a cliff whittled from shale.”
I’m looking forward to the author’s upcoming work and to learning more about her family’s heritage.
July 12, 2013
Rachel Stoltzfus finds herself single and pregnant making her the talk of her Old Order Mennonite community. She is living with her twin sister Leah and her husband Tobias King, she was helping when Leah had a problem pregnancy and continues to live there as her dad won't let her come home to live since she is an outcast.
She refuses to disclose the father of the baby and soon finds herself leaving her sisters house and living with Ida Mae Speck who has left her Old Order Mennonite community a few years ago. Ida Mae is a great support for Rachel and when Rachel's son Eli gets sick, she is there at every turn, even calling her family when she thinks Rachel needs them.
I really enjoyed this book and read it rather quickly, for me anyway, and had to use a few tissues in the end. Have you ever had a sibling rivalry, not one where you just don't get along, but privately in your mind? There is more than one sibling rivalry going on in this story, in more than one family, internal feelings, but one sibling doesn't know the other sibling has similar feelings. I think there have been times when I was upset with a sibling and not voiced it but these feelings, rivalry's, have been going on most of their lives.
The story is written from the view of two people, Rachel Stoltzfus and Amos King, Tobias's father, he is being buried as the story begins. The first chapter was a little confusing to me but I was soon involved and kept things pretty straight. This is not your typical Amish story therefore it's a little more interesting because you don't hear about these things going on in the Amish, or Mennonite, community too often but it makes you realize they do have things happen in their families just like us "English" people do.
This is the first book I read that Jolina has written, I think it may be her only book so far, and I am looking forward to some more. You might want to go find a copy and read it, it's quite good!
She refuses to disclose the father of the baby and soon finds herself leaving her sisters house and living with Ida Mae Speck who has left her Old Order Mennonite community a few years ago. Ida Mae is a great support for Rachel and when Rachel's son Eli gets sick, she is there at every turn, even calling her family when she thinks Rachel needs them.
I really enjoyed this book and read it rather quickly, for me anyway, and had to use a few tissues in the end. Have you ever had a sibling rivalry, not one where you just don't get along, but privately in your mind? There is more than one sibling rivalry going on in this story, in more than one family, internal feelings, but one sibling doesn't know the other sibling has similar feelings. I think there have been times when I was upset with a sibling and not voiced it but these feelings, rivalry's, have been going on most of their lives.
The story is written from the view of two people, Rachel Stoltzfus and Amos King, Tobias's father, he is being buried as the story begins. The first chapter was a little confusing to me but I was soon involved and kept things pretty straight. This is not your typical Amish story therefore it's a little more interesting because you don't hear about these things going on in the Amish, or Mennonite, community too often but it makes you realize they do have things happen in their families just like us "English" people do.
This is the first book I read that Jolina has written, I think it may be her only book so far, and I am looking forward to some more. You might want to go find a copy and read it, it's quite good!
February 15, 2014
Outstanding Debut Novel!
Jolina Petersheim has authored a brilliant debut novel portraying a pregnant, unmarried, Old Order Mennonite girl, and the resultant incriminations and repercussions her condition has elicited from her family and community members. She has been rejected and forsaken for committing adultery, but she refuses to divulge the identification of the man who fathered her unborn child. Sheltered and fostered by a former Mennonite woman, she finds peace and a safe haven. Heartrending events wreak havoc as additional adversities complicate her life. Her faith is shattered and hope is elusive as adversity and anguish besiege her.
The Outcast is written with expertise, proficiency, perception and sensitivity. Drawing from her Mennonite heritage the author has firsthand experience and understanding of her subject matter. Written with sophistication, conviction and discernment, the success of this novel is undeniable. The authenticity of the events throughout this narrative confirm that research and experience are beyond question. Elements of doubting God are replaced with forgiveness, faith, hope and assurance. I highly recommend this eloquently written book of Amish fiction and look forward to many more books by this ingenious new author.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Book Fun through the For Readers Only program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Jolina Petersheim has authored a brilliant debut novel portraying a pregnant, unmarried, Old Order Mennonite girl, and the resultant incriminations and repercussions her condition has elicited from her family and community members. She has been rejected and forsaken for committing adultery, but she refuses to divulge the identification of the man who fathered her unborn child. Sheltered and fostered by a former Mennonite woman, she finds peace and a safe haven. Heartrending events wreak havoc as additional adversities complicate her life. Her faith is shattered and hope is elusive as adversity and anguish besiege her.
The Outcast is written with expertise, proficiency, perception and sensitivity. Drawing from her Mennonite heritage the author has firsthand experience and understanding of her subject matter. Written with sophistication, conviction and discernment, the success of this novel is undeniable. The authenticity of the events throughout this narrative confirm that research and experience are beyond question. Elements of doubting God are replaced with forgiveness, faith, hope and assurance. I highly recommend this eloquently written book of Amish fiction and look forward to many more books by this ingenious new author.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Book Fun through the For Readers Only program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
July 3, 2015
There have been so many glowing reviews of Jolina Petersheim’s debut novel, The Outcast, that I was intrigued by this book. Add the fact that it was inspired by The Scarlet Letter, I knew I had to read it sooner than later. I purchased the audiobook and took off on my morning walks becoming immersed in Rachel’s life, her struggles and heartbreak. The Outcast was a book I just could not put down, er, turn off! Great writing, characters and plot — this novel has it all and gets a very highly recommended designation from me.
Petersheim sets her story of betrayal, jealousy, and judgment in an Old Order Mennonite community. Forgiveness is available, but only if repentance comes first. But not all sins are brought to light, and hypocrisy and pride drive innocents out into the world.
As stated, The Outcast is inspired by The Scarlet Letter. If your high school experience with that novel was less than enjoyable, don’t let that fact keep you from reading this book. Petersheim’s voice is fresh and accessible for her readers. Characters are real and relatable. The dual points of view of Rachel and a recently deceased Amos give fascinating and insightful glimpses into the heart of the characters. The faith message of God’s love, forgiveness and restoration runs throughout the novel. The Outcast also echoes the story of Rachel and Leah from the book of Genesis. — a nice touch. Petersheim also does a great job of exploring the impact of cancer on the entire family.
The Outcast is a winner in my book!
Very Highly Recommended.
Great for Book Clubs.
Audience: adults.
Petersheim sets her story of betrayal, jealousy, and judgment in an Old Order Mennonite community. Forgiveness is available, but only if repentance comes first. But not all sins are brought to light, and hypocrisy and pride drive innocents out into the world.
As stated, The Outcast is inspired by The Scarlet Letter. If your high school experience with that novel was less than enjoyable, don’t let that fact keep you from reading this book. Petersheim’s voice is fresh and accessible for her readers. Characters are real and relatable. The dual points of view of Rachel and a recently deceased Amos give fascinating and insightful glimpses into the heart of the characters. The faith message of God’s love, forgiveness and restoration runs throughout the novel. The Outcast also echoes the story of Rachel and Leah from the book of Genesis. — a nice touch. Petersheim also does a great job of exploring the impact of cancer on the entire family.
The Outcast is a winner in my book!
Very Highly Recommended.
Great for Book Clubs.
Audience: adults.
August 16, 2013
This is a very entertaining book!
The front cover of the book calls it “a modern retelling of The Scarlet Letter.” This is a very apt description of the story that Jolina has written. She has crafted a very intricate tale of a young woman, Rachel Stoltzfus, whose sin is visible for all to see. The deep complexities come about through the secrets that are kept hidden. How far should someone go in keeping secrets to protect another person that they love?
The characters are so well developed that it was very easy to feel their pain and anguish throughout the story. At the same time there were some others so caught up in protecting themselves that it was very easy to dislike them.
She does a marvelous job of showing how two people’s sin affect everyone that they are in relationship with. Not only those that are supporting and encouraging Rachel, but also those that are actively judging her.
Jolina Petersheim showed that she truly has a marvelous talent to paint a full picture. I’m looking forward to reading anything else that she writes.
I won a free copy of this book through a Goodreads.com First Reads giveaway.
The front cover of the book calls it “a modern retelling of The Scarlet Letter.” This is a very apt description of the story that Jolina has written. She has crafted a very intricate tale of a young woman, Rachel Stoltzfus, whose sin is visible for all to see. The deep complexities come about through the secrets that are kept hidden. How far should someone go in keeping secrets to protect another person that they love?
The characters are so well developed that it was very easy to feel their pain and anguish throughout the story. At the same time there were some others so caught up in protecting themselves that it was very easy to dislike them.
She does a marvelous job of showing how two people’s sin affect everyone that they are in relationship with. Not only those that are supporting and encouraging Rachel, but also those that are actively judging her.
Jolina Petersheim showed that she truly has a marvelous talent to paint a full picture. I’m looking forward to reading anything else that she writes.
I won a free copy of this book through a Goodreads.com First Reads giveaway.
May 3, 2019
Effortless.
Actually, I'm not sure if Ms. Petersheim's debut novel was effortless, but it read like it was. Not forced, but flowing with such prose one can't help but believe it wasn't from trial or huge effort, but from love of the characters and her story that made the words flow from her fingers. Such a gift.
Identical twins, one married to the bishop, the other unmarried with a newborn. Shame and blame, unforgiveness and self-recrimination with a close community that only sees the one twin as a blight.
This doesn’t sound like a basis for a love story or even a happy ending. But the threads that wove in and out of this drama produced an amazing design of forgiveness and growth. Such a story.
Books like these will keep me reading and re-reading anything Jolina writes.
Addendum: Tavia Gilbert is a narrator I'm familiar with and to be honest, one I so appreciate. She was a joy to listen to.
Actually, I'm not sure if Ms. Petersheim's debut novel was effortless, but it read like it was. Not forced, but flowing with such prose one can't help but believe it wasn't from trial or huge effort, but from love of the characters and her story that made the words flow from her fingers. Such a gift.
Identical twins, one married to the bishop, the other unmarried with a newborn. Shame and blame, unforgiveness and self-recrimination with a close community that only sees the one twin as a blight.
This doesn’t sound like a basis for a love story or even a happy ending. But the threads that wove in and out of this drama produced an amazing design of forgiveness and growth. Such a story.
Books like these will keep me reading and re-reading anything Jolina writes.
Addendum: Tavia Gilbert is a narrator I'm familiar with and to be honest, one I so appreciate. She was a joy to listen to.
July 15, 2013
My mother did not like this novel at all, I however did, as you can tell by my rating. However, the cover is deceiving because the child is not that old at all during the novel.
Everyone sins, but some sins are more public than others. If you become pregnant when you are not married everyone knows what you did, but the father of the baby is not always as obvious, especially when denial and judgment is displayed first. This novel has many strings and is weaved into a story in that you root for the characters to overcome their trials. Forgiveness is a key to the story--who gives it, who doesn't give it, who needs it or craves it.
389 pages
Everyone sins, but some sins are more public than others. If you become pregnant when you are not married everyone knows what you did, but the father of the baby is not always as obvious, especially when denial and judgment is displayed first. This novel has many strings and is weaved into a story in that you root for the characters to overcome their trials. Forgiveness is a key to the story--who gives it, who doesn't give it, who needs it or craves it.
389 pages
January 17, 2016
A really good inspirational read, about twin Old Order Mennonite girls, their families secrets, forgiveness, cancer, and so much more. I will read more from Jolina Petersheim
From Goodreads sample synopsis of this book:
Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most.
From Goodreads sample synopsis of this book:
Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most.
July 15, 2013
Wonderfully captivating and extremely touching. It drew me in from the very start and kept me intrigued throughout. I felt as though I wasn't looking in from the outside but apart of it myself. Beautifully written and articulated. Strikingly authentic. I recommend this to anyone regardless of age.
-Rachel Williams
-Rachel Williams
September 22, 2015
This is the first book I've read by Jolina Petersheim. I was drawn into the world she created and the characters tugged my emotional strings. As a new grandmother to a grandson, well, I won't give any spoilers, but just know my heart was totally involved in this book. Excellent writing as well. Have recommended this book many times since finishing.
April 25, 2014
I usually don't read Amish/cult type books but this one got such good reviews that I thought I would give it try. It was very compelling from the first chapter. I liked Rachel, the main character. I thought the story flowed really well. I'm glad I read it. I look forward to reading more books by Petersheim.
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