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The Charmed Amish Life #1
A Son's Vow
Three months ago, everything changed for Darla Kurtz and her family. Darla’s father was responsible for a terrible fire at Charm’s lumber mill which killed five Amish men. And though he, too, lost his life, the town of Charm hasn’t looked at her family the same since. Even Lukas Kinsinger—with whom Darla used to have a close friendship.
Now her brother’s anger at the town is spilling over onto Darla, and she has the bruises to prove it. The accident already cost five lives, but if something doesn’t change soon, Darla fears it will cost her—and her family—even more.
Lukas Kinsinger wants to mourn the loss of his father, but he can hardly find the time to breathe. Suddenly the head of his father’s lumber mill and responsible for taking care of his three siblings, he’s feeling the pressure. He has also never felt more alone—especially with the new tension between he and Darla. But when he learns of her troubles at home, Lukas knows he can’t simply stand by and watch. Someone has to help her before another tragedy occurs.
As Lukas and Darla attempt to repair their families, they discover something deeper than friendship growing between them. But will Lukas and Darla’s love be accepted after so much loss? Or will the pain of the past overcome any chance of future happiness?
Now her brother’s anger at the town is spilling over onto Darla, and she has the bruises to prove it. The accident already cost five lives, but if something doesn’t change soon, Darla fears it will cost her—and her family—even more.
Lukas Kinsinger wants to mourn the loss of his father, but he can hardly find the time to breathe. Suddenly the head of his father’s lumber mill and responsible for taking care of his three siblings, he’s feeling the pressure. He has also never felt more alone—especially with the new tension between he and Darla. But when he learns of her troubles at home, Lukas knows he can’t simply stand by and watch. Someone has to help her before another tragedy occurs.
As Lukas and Darla attempt to repair their families, they discover something deeper than friendship growing between them. But will Lukas and Darla’s love be accepted after so much loss? Or will the pain of the past overcome any chance of future happiness?
262 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2016
225 people are currently reading
1328 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
134 books2,331 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
February 6, 2016
Full review posted...
Shelley Shepard Gray writes inspirational romance novels, stories filled with hope, joy, and unconditional love. A Son's Vow is the first book in Ms. Shepard's new The Charmed Amish Life series and the first I've read by her, and I can't express just how much I enjoyed this story.
Sometimes what I want is a feel-good, meaningful story, and that's exactly what this is. And despite what you might think, this isn't merely a charming Christian romance, it's an emotional story of overcoming life's tragedies, accepting responsibility for your own actions, and letting go of your anger so you can find the compassion to forgive - and the strength and humility to accept forgiveness. And through all heartache, A Sons Vow is a beautiful romance and an uplifting story.
I'm looking forward to making frequent visits to the Amish village of Charm, Ohio because there are many amazing people there whose stories need to be told.
An ARC was provided by Avon Inspire as part of the Tasty Tours blog tour.
Shelley Shepard Gray writes inspirational romance novels, stories filled with hope, joy, and unconditional love. A Son's Vow is the first book in Ms. Shepard's new The Charmed Amish Life series and the first I've read by her, and I can't express just how much I enjoyed this story.
Sometimes what I want is a feel-good, meaningful story, and that's exactly what this is. And despite what you might think, this isn't merely a charming Christian romance, it's an emotional story of overcoming life's tragedies, accepting responsibility for your own actions, and letting go of your anger so you can find the compassion to forgive - and the strength and humility to accept forgiveness. And through all heartache, A Sons Vow is a beautiful romance and an uplifting story.
I'm looking forward to making frequent visits to the Amish village of Charm, Ohio because there are many amazing people there whose stories need to be told.
An ARC was provided by Avon Inspire as part of the Tasty Tours blog tour.
June 23, 2017
A Son's Vow
Shelley Shepard Gray
A SON'S VOW is the first book in the new series by Shelley Shepard Gray called The Charmed Amish Life.
A SON'S VOW starts off increasing the reader's heart rate right away. A tragic accident at the lumber mill, people have died because of it, and everyone is blaming poor Darla's Dad for the fire. Her dad has died in the fire as well as four other Amish men. Darla works at the post office and a woman comes in almost daily to try and shame her. My heart immediately goes out to Darla and I just want to hug her. Will she ever be able to make peace with what has happened? While she is struggling with all of this, Lukas, who is running the mill now, and has also lost his father, finds himself wanting to protect Darla.
You will also meet Hannah, who lost her beau in the fire. She is trying to move on with her life and her job babysitting an Englisch baby really helps her not sit around and dwell on all that she has lost. But how can she move on when Aaron, who is Darla's brother, keeps trying to shame her for not harboring grief and all of her pain and trying to move on. He feels like everyone should be miserable just like him. Aaron is a ticking time bomb and you will be flipping the page like mad trying to hurry to see what he is going to do next! I know I did! A SON'S VOW is such an emotional read, you won't be able to help yourself from getting into all of the characters business.
Everyone of the main characters is trying to move on from the horrible accident, but they are trying to do it alone and it just isn't working. Someone needs to pull them all together and remind them of their faith. A SON'S VOW teaches us that all religions grieve, no matter how we are raised. We might all grieve differently, but we all do it. My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Shelley Shepard Gray story and I'm excited to read the next book in this series, called A Daughter's Dream. I loved how she made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.
Shelley Shepard Gray
A SON'S VOW is the first book in the new series by Shelley Shepard Gray called The Charmed Amish Life.
A SON'S VOW starts off increasing the reader's heart rate right away. A tragic accident at the lumber mill, people have died because of it, and everyone is blaming poor Darla's Dad for the fire. Her dad has died in the fire as well as four other Amish men. Darla works at the post office and a woman comes in almost daily to try and shame her. My heart immediately goes out to Darla and I just want to hug her. Will she ever be able to make peace with what has happened? While she is struggling with all of this, Lukas, who is running the mill now, and has also lost his father, finds himself wanting to protect Darla.
You will also meet Hannah, who lost her beau in the fire. She is trying to move on with her life and her job babysitting an Englisch baby really helps her not sit around and dwell on all that she has lost. But how can she move on when Aaron, who is Darla's brother, keeps trying to shame her for not harboring grief and all of her pain and trying to move on. He feels like everyone should be miserable just like him. Aaron is a ticking time bomb and you will be flipping the page like mad trying to hurry to see what he is going to do next! I know I did! A SON'S VOW is such an emotional read, you won't be able to help yourself from getting into all of the characters business.
Everyone of the main characters is trying to move on from the horrible accident, but they are trying to do it alone and it just isn't working. Someone needs to pull them all together and remind them of their faith. A SON'S VOW teaches us that all religions grieve, no matter how we are raised. We might all grieve differently, but we all do it. My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Shelley Shepard Gray story and I'm excited to read the next book in this series, called A Daughter's Dream. I loved how she made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.
January 29, 2016
4.5 stars
One of the first things that struck me about A Son’s Vow was how it addresses topics that aren’t usually explored in Amish fiction. Topics such as unforgiveness, abuse, bitterness, grief, depression. A refreshing reminder of why I love Shelley Shepard Gray’s Amish novels. It’s not so much the case now (thankfully), but when I first tried Amish fiction, all the characters and plots seemed encased in an almost utopian bubble. I didn’t care for it. When I discovered Shelley Shepard Gray, she gave me a new appreciation for the genre. (I have since found several other Amish fiction authors I like as well for these same reasons.) Her characters are real and honest and sometimes raw, but they are also sweet and quirky and sometimes flirty. And no matter what the situation, grace coats every word.
Lukas and Darla have so much history behind their friendship – and now so much emotion. Emotion that could – and does – strain the relationship but which also has the potential to make it all the sweeter. I loved watching them interact. Lukas’ protective instincts (swoon!). Darla’s torn loyalties. The moments when they put aside the recent past in favor of the distant (swoon! again!). And then there’s Hannah… whose brewing and complicated relationship I hope to see more of in the series.
But beyond all (quite enjoyable) plot points of a romantical nature, the focus on grief and how we each absorb it really sets this book apart from the crowd. Nearly for every character in A Son’s Vow, we are shown a different approach to loss. Some healthy, others not so much. The emphasis on God’s faithfulness, despite our doubt, our anger, our sin, is sure to touch readers no matter what stage of grief they may find themselves.
Bottom Line: Shelley Shepard Gray consistently delivers skillfully-written stories of hope and grace, and A Son’s Vow is no exception. Engaging and honest, this is deeper than a romance and so much more than marketing for an Amish utopia. It’s beautiful, it’s creative, it’s witty, and it’s real. In my opinion, it doesn’t get much better :)
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
One of the first things that struck me about A Son’s Vow was how it addresses topics that aren’t usually explored in Amish fiction. Topics such as unforgiveness, abuse, bitterness, grief, depression. A refreshing reminder of why I love Shelley Shepard Gray’s Amish novels. It’s not so much the case now (thankfully), but when I first tried Amish fiction, all the characters and plots seemed encased in an almost utopian bubble. I didn’t care for it. When I discovered Shelley Shepard Gray, she gave me a new appreciation for the genre. (I have since found several other Amish fiction authors I like as well for these same reasons.) Her characters are real and honest and sometimes raw, but they are also sweet and quirky and sometimes flirty. And no matter what the situation, grace coats every word.
Lukas and Darla have so much history behind their friendship – and now so much emotion. Emotion that could – and does – strain the relationship but which also has the potential to make it all the sweeter. I loved watching them interact. Lukas’ protective instincts (swoon!). Darla’s torn loyalties. The moments when they put aside the recent past in favor of the distant (swoon! again!). And then there’s Hannah… whose brewing and complicated relationship I hope to see more of in the series.
But beyond all (quite enjoyable) plot points of a romantical nature, the focus on grief and how we each absorb it really sets this book apart from the crowd. Nearly for every character in A Son’s Vow, we are shown a different approach to loss. Some healthy, others not so much. The emphasis on God’s faithfulness, despite our doubt, our anger, our sin, is sure to touch readers no matter what stage of grief they may find themselves.
Bottom Line: Shelley Shepard Gray consistently delivers skillfully-written stories of hope and grace, and A Son’s Vow is no exception. Engaging and honest, this is deeper than a romance and so much more than marketing for an Amish utopia. It’s beautiful, it’s creative, it’s witty, and it’s real. In my opinion, it doesn’t get much better :)
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
November 30, 2018
A Son's Vow by Shelley Shepard Gray is my first Amish Christian romance novel. I've never really been tempted to read this genre. Sure, I'm interested in real life Amish culture, but these kinds of stories have never interested me - partially because I'm so irritated by the cover design. Anyway, this wasn't as bad and annoying as I had prepared myself for, but not my style at all. I have a feeling I won't be reading any more of this genre again. My hands down favorite aspect of this book is that it's set in the blink and you miss it Charm, Ohio. If I didn't know any better, I'd swear it comes across as a little bit bigger in the story than real life.
January 15, 2016
I really enjoyed the first book in the new The Charmed Amish Life series. When I started reading, I wanted to get alone somewhere and simply read until I finished. I had a hard time putting it down because the story just kept drawing me in. I could not imagine what was going to happen to the friendship between Darla and Lukas. And I tried to figure out what would become of Aaron. He seemed like a ticking time-bomb. I also couldn’t keep from wondering if Mary was going to continue going to the post office and berating Darla every day for the rest of her life. Each of the main characters in the story was trying in his or her own way to get past the death of a loved one in a fire that never should have happened. That’s a very difficult thing to handle, but even more so when trying to do it alone as several of them were. I found myself wondering what I would have done in each of their situations and hoping I never have to find out. The characters were so believable and real. Someone might say that these are Amish people and surely the Amish would not behave the way some of the characters do. But first and foremost, they are human beings with feelings and emotions just like everyone else. I found it refreshing to see them be so human and respond in such a wide range of ways. If you enjoy reading Amish fiction, this is definitely a “must read”. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
January 28, 2016
Absolutely amazing! A Son’s Vow, by: Shelley Shepard Gray
A Son’s Vow is book one in The Charmed Amish Life by Shelley Shepard Gray. This is not your typical Amish romance book. Shelley has skillfully written a heart touching story. A story that is filled with so many strong emotions that will surly draw you into the story right from the start and not let you go until the very end! There is so much love, pain, heartache, hope, denial, devotion, and faith in this story. Characters that will grab hold of you and take you for the emotional roller coaster of a ride thought this story. This book surely has to be Shelley best Amish fiction that she has ever written! I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series. Be sure to order your copy of A Son’s Vow by Shelley Shepard Gray today! 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
A Son’s Vow is book one in The Charmed Amish Life by Shelley Shepard Gray. This is not your typical Amish romance book. Shelley has skillfully written a heart touching story. A story that is filled with so many strong emotions that will surly draw you into the story right from the start and not let you go until the very end! There is so much love, pain, heartache, hope, denial, devotion, and faith in this story. Characters that will grab hold of you and take you for the emotional roller coaster of a ride thought this story. This book surely has to be Shelley best Amish fiction that she has ever written! I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series. Be sure to order your copy of A Son’s Vow by Shelley Shepard Gray today! 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
January 27, 2016
A Son’s Vow was a very interesting book to read and I found it hard to set down. I did actually read it in one day! I really liked the main characters, Darla and Lukas. It was difficult to watch as Darla received bad treatment from certain townspeople and also abusive treatment from her brother. I so wanted her to stand up for herself, but could understand her fear of doing so.
Lukas was absolutely wonderful! Did he always handle everything correctly? No. Did he know what steps should really be taken to help in Darla’s situation once he was aware of it? Not really. He had some learning to do and he put his all into trying to make things right. I really liked the development of the relationship between these two people.
This story is also full of other interesting characters, such as Hannah and Rob. What an interesting side story that was. Of course Darla and Lukas’ siblings all play their own roles in this book. I was very fond of Rebecca and enjoyed her appearances in the story. And then there is Darla’s brother, Aaron. His actions and the hatred that had risen up in him was hard to read about. I wondered how the author would handle him as the story wrapped to a close. I thought she did a good job with it and brought about a satisfactory ending. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Lukas was absolutely wonderful! Did he always handle everything correctly? No. Did he know what steps should really be taken to help in Darla’s situation once he was aware of it? Not really. He had some learning to do and he put his all into trying to make things right. I really liked the development of the relationship between these two people.
This story is also full of other interesting characters, such as Hannah and Rob. What an interesting side story that was. Of course Darla and Lukas’ siblings all play their own roles in this book. I was very fond of Rebecca and enjoyed her appearances in the story. And then there is Darla’s brother, Aaron. His actions and the hatred that had risen up in him was hard to read about. I wondered how the author would handle him as the story wrapped to a close. I thought she did a good job with it and brought about a satisfactory ending. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
February 5, 2016
A Son's Vow is the first in a new Amish series by Shelley Shepard Gray. I was hesitant to sogn up for the blog tour for A Son's Vow because I don't really read Amish fiction anymore, except for Beverley Lewis, it has become the same ole', same ole'. But I have enjoyed other books by Shelley so I thought to give it a shot and I am so glad I did. I actually really loved and enjoyed A Son's Vow. And I love the cover of the book too.
Set in an Amish village in Ohio, it tells the story of Darla Kurtz and Lukas Kinsinger. Darla's father was responsible for a fire that killed five Amish men, including her own father. And since the town doesn't look at Darla the same, even Lukas who Darla has been close friends with for years. Lukas's father waas one of the men killed in the fire and he has since maintained distance from Darla. Unfortunately Darla's brother has become angry and he is taking his anger out on Darla leaving bruises. Lukas soon finds out what Darla's brother is doing to her and he can't just sit by and do nothing.
A Son's Vow was a huge surprise and I can not wait for book #2 to release on May 24, 2016.
Note:::I recieved this book for free from the publisher for an honest review.
Set in an Amish village in Ohio, it tells the story of Darla Kurtz and Lukas Kinsinger. Darla's father was responsible for a fire that killed five Amish men, including her own father. And since the town doesn't look at Darla the same, even Lukas who Darla has been close friends with for years. Lukas's father waas one of the men killed in the fire and he has since maintained distance from Darla. Unfortunately Darla's brother has become angry and he is taking his anger out on Darla leaving bruises. Lukas soon finds out what Darla's brother is doing to her and he can't just sit by and do nothing.
A Son's Vow was a huge surprise and I can not wait for book #2 to release on May 24, 2016.
Note:::I recieved this book for free from the publisher for an honest review.
February 10, 2016
*My Thoughts*
This book was fabulous! I loved Shelley's Brides of Pinecraft Series, and in my oppinion, this series is going to be even better!
Every time Darla had to defend herself and her family to the town, I physically ached. I understand on a very miniscule level what it is like to be rejected, but nothing like that. However, Shelley has a way of showing everyone elses true feelings so as not to make enemies out of the other characters, but eventually, friends.
Her writing is superb! I could see the tension and attraction on the part of Lukas and Darla but it didn't overtake the line of forgiveness and grace in the story.
This was so much more then a romance story. Shelley really did enrapture me with the story each person had and the heartache and healing they all shared. A beautiful story, inside and out, this series will be another great success if Shelley continues this trend!
____________________________________________________
*My overall thoughts*
A completely beautiful Amish romance that is so much more! Woven with faith, healing, forgiveness, and love, A Son's Vow is a much welcomed addition to my shelves!
_______________________________________________________
*My Rating*
I give A Son's Vow by Shelley Shepard Gray...
5 stars!!
_______________________________________________
*Audience*
Romance lovers? If you love these authors, you'll love Shelley too:
Wanda Brunnstetter, Jennifer Beckstrand, Linda Byler, and Suzanne Woods Fischer!
*I received this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.
This book was fabulous! I loved Shelley's Brides of Pinecraft Series, and in my oppinion, this series is going to be even better!
Every time Darla had to defend herself and her family to the town, I physically ached. I understand on a very miniscule level what it is like to be rejected, but nothing like that. However, Shelley has a way of showing everyone elses true feelings so as not to make enemies out of the other characters, but eventually, friends.
Her writing is superb! I could see the tension and attraction on the part of Lukas and Darla but it didn't overtake the line of forgiveness and grace in the story.
This was so much more then a romance story. Shelley really did enrapture me with the story each person had and the heartache and healing they all shared. A beautiful story, inside and out, this series will be another great success if Shelley continues this trend!
____________________________________________________
*My overall thoughts*
A completely beautiful Amish romance that is so much more! Woven with faith, healing, forgiveness, and love, A Son's Vow is a much welcomed addition to my shelves!
_______________________________________________________
*My Rating*
I give A Son's Vow by Shelley Shepard Gray...
5 stars!!
_______________________________________________
*Audience*
Romance lovers? If you love these authors, you'll love Shelley too:
Wanda Brunnstetter, Jennifer Beckstrand, Linda Byler, and Suzanne Woods Fischer!
*I received this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.
February 10, 2016
Before I say anything about the book, I have to comment on how beautiful the cover is, especially the guy on the cover. Drools. There needs to be more covers that look like this...
This story is really one of two families coming out of darkness. It isn't your usual light fluffy Amish read. Two families have a tragedy that pushes them apart when they were very close.
The story revolves around three sets of people who all suffered losses when the local mill caught fire. Darla is getting the brunt of it all. Everyone seems to blame her for what her father might have done. She's also lost the closeness she once had with Lukas Kinsinger who is now running the mill.
Aaron is Darla's brother who is not dealing with with the new responsibilities that fall on his shoulders. He's turning abusive to those that are close to him. He's a character that you almost want to feel sorry for. Sherry tries to get you to feel some sympathy for him. He knows what he's doing but he can't seem to control his anger.
Then there's Hannah, who lost her boyfriend, Paul in the fire. She's putting her life together working for an English family.
All of their lives seem to intersect through Aaron and his troubles.
I was surprised at how little faith seemed to play in this book especially when it came to Aaron and his violence. I would have thought that the Bishop of their district would have stepped in to help Darla and her family. In fact, a lot of the doings of the the residents of Charm seem to be a little progressive for Amish, especially Hannah who seems like she might be ready to leave the Amish faith for an English life.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to finding out what happens in the next book.
This story is really one of two families coming out of darkness. It isn't your usual light fluffy Amish read. Two families have a tragedy that pushes them apart when they were very close.
The story revolves around three sets of people who all suffered losses when the local mill caught fire. Darla is getting the brunt of it all. Everyone seems to blame her for what her father might have done. She's also lost the closeness she once had with Lukas Kinsinger who is now running the mill.
Aaron is Darla's brother who is not dealing with with the new responsibilities that fall on his shoulders. He's turning abusive to those that are close to him. He's a character that you almost want to feel sorry for. Sherry tries to get you to feel some sympathy for him. He knows what he's doing but he can't seem to control his anger.
Then there's Hannah, who lost her boyfriend, Paul in the fire. She's putting her life together working for an English family.
All of their lives seem to intersect through Aaron and his troubles.
I was surprised at how little faith seemed to play in this book especially when it came to Aaron and his violence. I would have thought that the Bishop of their district would have stepped in to help Darla and her family. In fact, a lot of the doings of the the residents of Charm seem to be a little progressive for Amish, especially Hannah who seems like she might be ready to leave the Amish faith for an English life.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to finding out what happens in the next book.
January 15, 2016
A Son’s Vow ( The Charmed Amish Life - Book One )
By: Shelley Shepard Gray
A Son’s Vow is the fist book in The Charmed Life Series. Shelley Shepard Gray captured my heart right from the start and held on till the end , and then I was crying for more. I loved the story and the characters, both were easy to follow. Her characters were so real that I felt like I was right there with them. Ms. Gray pens a story of loss, faith, hope, love , and forgiveness. A terrible tragedy struck the Amish Village of Charm, Ohio that took the lives of five men. It is very hard for some of the families to move on. I felt sorry for these families. At times I felt tears rolling down my face. It seem that I could not read fast enough to see what was going to happen next. When I started reading A Son’s Vow I did not want to put it down till the end. Can and will these families , some that was really close, put their trust in God and forgive ,and move on with their lives? Ms. Gray pens a very heartwarming story in A Son’s Vow and I loved it. Be sure and get your copy , you do not want to miss out on the first book in the series The Charmed Amish life.
I was given a complementary copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
By: Shelley Shepard Gray
A Son’s Vow is the fist book in The Charmed Life Series. Shelley Shepard Gray captured my heart right from the start and held on till the end , and then I was crying for more. I loved the story and the characters, both were easy to follow. Her characters were so real that I felt like I was right there with them. Ms. Gray pens a story of loss, faith, hope, love , and forgiveness. A terrible tragedy struck the Amish Village of Charm, Ohio that took the lives of five men. It is very hard for some of the families to move on. I felt sorry for these families. At times I felt tears rolling down my face. It seem that I could not read fast enough to see what was going to happen next. When I started reading A Son’s Vow I did not want to put it down till the end. Can and will these families , some that was really close, put their trust in God and forgive ,and move on with their lives? Ms. Gray pens a very heartwarming story in A Son’s Vow and I loved it. Be sure and get your copy , you do not want to miss out on the first book in the series The Charmed Amish life.
I was given a complementary copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
January 26, 2016
A SON'S VOW is the first book in Ms. Gray's newest Amish series. It has several point of view characters, not just Lukas and Darla. The book was rather hard to read as it deals with loss and physical abuse and the depravity of mankind, although it was dealt with somewhat tactfully. I admired the way Lukas stood up for Darla -- in a way. In another way, he was a bully of a different sort, not so much physically though, but in a way that I will do what I want and you have nothing to say about it. Since he was interfering in her life, I think she did. I admired that Darla had the strength to fight for herself instead of letting Lukas run all over her. She was a little spitfire at times.
Written in Shelly's unique voice I found myself tangled up in these characters lives. I hoped Aaron would turn away from his anger issues and that Lukas would be somewhat less forceful. There is no faith message to speak of in the story, forgiveness is the theme, and I did get confused over Darla's family dynamics -- who is who -- but I think I eventually figured that out. Those who can't get enough bonnet fiction will likely love this. Or fans of Ms. Gray. 3 stars.
Written in Shelly's unique voice I found myself tangled up in these characters lives. I hoped Aaron would turn away from his anger issues and that Lukas would be somewhat less forceful. There is no faith message to speak of in the story, forgiveness is the theme, and I did get confused over Darla's family dynamics -- who is who -- but I think I eventually figured that out. Those who can't get enough bonnet fiction will likely love this. Or fans of Ms. Gray. 3 stars.
November 10, 2015
4.5 stars. You can read my review in the Feb. 2016 issue of RT Bookreviews magazine.
September 20, 2018
This was a really touching book! I enjoyed all of the characters. Looking forward to reading book two. My heart went out to Darla but she kept pushing forward.
August 28, 2019
A freak fire at the town’s lumber yard left five men dead. Though fingers were pointed at Darla’s father as the culprit who started the fire, Lukas, the son of the owner, publicly declared him innocent. Both fathers died in the blaze which was determined to have had multiple factors that combined to make the tragedy. But Darla’s brother blamed the conditions of the yard, and the owners. Darla and Lukas have had a long-standing friendship that has been strained due to the accusations that followed the fire. Now, hard feelings exist in both families, but Darla and Lukas are still drawn to each other. This book explores several themes, including anger, sadness, culpability, remorse, and forgiveness. The tale is well written and is peopled with likable and believable characters.
February 10, 2016
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2016/02/b...
A Son's Vow is the first book in The Charmed Amish Life series by Shelley Shepard Grey and also the first book by this author that I have read. I got attracted towards this book because of its intriguing blurb which had me wanting to pick up the book to read!
The cover is okay. It could have been more interesting. The title is again intriguing and sure to attract a reader's attention.
This book is not just a simple Amish romance but a story about two families struggling after a tragedy and the romance that has the power to either make or break them. I have read a few books based on Amish culture and there life is so different from mine that it is always interesting to read stories featuring this simple and down-to-earth community.
I enjoyed reading this very inspiring story that teaches us to be strong no matter how bad the circumstances and the power of true love that teaches one to be ready to wait and be patient even if it means waiting for a lifetime and sacrificing your own happiness just for your partner's happiness. Forgiveness is the theme of the story and it tackles with some serious issues like domestic abuse and societal abuse but everything is handled very tactfully by the author.
I enjoyed Shelley's writing style and her world building where she brings to us a small, close knit Amish community that had lived in harmony and which goes against one family based on hearsay following a tragedy. The contrast of society's dual face is frankly brought to us by the author.
The characters are well fleshed out and seem real. Darla is a strong character who is bravely facing the fire both at home and outside and trying her best to keep her family together. While I applauded her determination and the sacrifices she made, sometimes her easy compliance to everything felt over done and I desperately wanted to shake some sense and spine into her.
Lukas is a honest and good man. I loved his attempts at trying to win Darla's friendship again and his attempts at helping her but still I felt more could have been done to bring out more effect into their love story and the struggles they faced. There was so much scope to make it intense and more engaging.
The Kurtz and Kingsinger families are a varied bunch and I enjoyed meeting them and hope to read their own stories in the successive books in this series.
All in all, A Son's Vow is an engaging, clean family story that has heartfelt emotions, real world struggles and a quiet but realistic romance. I enjoyed reading the book and give it 4 out of 5 stars. Recommended to everyone, I hope to read more from the author in the future.
I received the book from the publishers and the tour organizers via Edelweiss and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
A Son's Vow is the first book in The Charmed Amish Life series by Shelley Shepard Grey and also the first book by this author that I have read. I got attracted towards this book because of its intriguing blurb which had me wanting to pick up the book to read!
The cover is okay. It could have been more interesting. The title is again intriguing and sure to attract a reader's attention.
This book is not just a simple Amish romance but a story about two families struggling after a tragedy and the romance that has the power to either make or break them. I have read a few books based on Amish culture and there life is so different from mine that it is always interesting to read stories featuring this simple and down-to-earth community.
I enjoyed reading this very inspiring story that teaches us to be strong no matter how bad the circumstances and the power of true love that teaches one to be ready to wait and be patient even if it means waiting for a lifetime and sacrificing your own happiness just for your partner's happiness. Forgiveness is the theme of the story and it tackles with some serious issues like domestic abuse and societal abuse but everything is handled very tactfully by the author.
I enjoyed Shelley's writing style and her world building where she brings to us a small, close knit Amish community that had lived in harmony and which goes against one family based on hearsay following a tragedy. The contrast of society's dual face is frankly brought to us by the author.
The characters are well fleshed out and seem real. Darla is a strong character who is bravely facing the fire both at home and outside and trying her best to keep her family together. While I applauded her determination and the sacrifices she made, sometimes her easy compliance to everything felt over done and I desperately wanted to shake some sense and spine into her.
Lukas is a honest and good man. I loved his attempts at trying to win Darla's friendship again and his attempts at helping her but still I felt more could have been done to bring out more effect into their love story and the struggles they faced. There was so much scope to make it intense and more engaging.
The Kurtz and Kingsinger families are a varied bunch and I enjoyed meeting them and hope to read their own stories in the successive books in this series.
All in all, A Son's Vow is an engaging, clean family story that has heartfelt emotions, real world struggles and a quiet but realistic romance. I enjoyed reading the book and give it 4 out of 5 stars. Recommended to everyone, I hope to read more from the author in the future.
I received the book from the publishers and the tour organizers via Edelweiss and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
February 8, 2016
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/1T0I18n
With A Son’s Vow, Shelley Shepard Gray begins a new four-book series, transporting readers to the Amish village of Charm, Ohio (population 110). I always find much to enjoy in Shelley’s writing and am delighted with this new series. Although Shelley incorporates a wealth of sensitive issues (grief, anger, physical abuse, blame), the narrative isn’t especially deep - but other factors combine to make this a really good story. The heart and emotion of its characters are vividly conveyed, and the story’s length of 262 pages seemed just right. And the bottom line? A Son’s Vow is not your typical Amish story, and that makes for a compelling read.
I loved Shelley’s previous series set in Pinecraft, but am just as hooked on the small community of Charm. A wonderful little village map is included at the beginning, and it was fun to explore online pictures of this area that inspired the series. While Lukas and Darla are the lead characters, they are surrounded by a great ensemble cast of family and friends. One of my favorite things about a series like this is that we get to come back to familiar characters and see their development.
At the center of this story is the lingering effect of an accidental fire at the Kinsinger lumber mill that killed five men, including the fathers of Lukas and Darla. Lukas, the eldest son, shoulders the responsibility of running the mill and taking care of his family. Anger manifests itself in different ways . . . For some, it’s in laying blame at the feet of Darla’s father; for Aaron, Darla’s brother, it’s an uncontrollable anger that leads to abusive behavior.
One of the things I liked most about A Son’s Vow is that it presents a realistic look into the lives of a flawed people, showing that there’s really no difference between the Amish community and us when it comes to dealing with life issues. Dealing with unimaginable grief over the loss of a loved one, the need to forgive and go on – the Amish struggle is just as difficult as ours.
For Lukas and Darla, the road to redemption and forgiveness might be rocky, but God’s hand and lovingkindness is seen throughout. I look forward to all that is to come in this series – hopefully more from Lukas and Darla, as well as Hannah, Rob, Aaron and Hope. Book #2, A Daughter’s Dream, releases in May 2016.
Recommended
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
With A Son’s Vow, Shelley Shepard Gray begins a new four-book series, transporting readers to the Amish village of Charm, Ohio (population 110). I always find much to enjoy in Shelley’s writing and am delighted with this new series. Although Shelley incorporates a wealth of sensitive issues (grief, anger, physical abuse, blame), the narrative isn’t especially deep - but other factors combine to make this a really good story. The heart and emotion of its characters are vividly conveyed, and the story’s length of 262 pages seemed just right. And the bottom line? A Son’s Vow is not your typical Amish story, and that makes for a compelling read.
I loved Shelley’s previous series set in Pinecraft, but am just as hooked on the small community of Charm. A wonderful little village map is included at the beginning, and it was fun to explore online pictures of this area that inspired the series. While Lukas and Darla are the lead characters, they are surrounded by a great ensemble cast of family and friends. One of my favorite things about a series like this is that we get to come back to familiar characters and see their development.
At the center of this story is the lingering effect of an accidental fire at the Kinsinger lumber mill that killed five men, including the fathers of Lukas and Darla. Lukas, the eldest son, shoulders the responsibility of running the mill and taking care of his family. Anger manifests itself in different ways . . . For some, it’s in laying blame at the feet of Darla’s father; for Aaron, Darla’s brother, it’s an uncontrollable anger that leads to abusive behavior.
One of the things I liked most about A Son’s Vow is that it presents a realistic look into the lives of a flawed people, showing that there’s really no difference between the Amish community and us when it comes to dealing with life issues. Dealing with unimaginable grief over the loss of a loved one, the need to forgive and go on – the Amish struggle is just as difficult as ours.
For Lukas and Darla, the road to redemption and forgiveness might be rocky, but God’s hand and lovingkindness is seen throughout. I look forward to all that is to come in this series – hopefully more from Lukas and Darla, as well as Hannah, Rob, Aaron and Hope. Book #2, A Daughter’s Dream, releases in May 2016.
Recommended
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 2, 2016
I loved this book!! It's by far the best that Shelley has written yet. I just couldn't put it down!!
It does have abuse, some love, but mostly anger in it.
I liked it because of the way the Amish come together towards the end to help one of their own in need. I feel like we Englishers could do the same for others in need instead of avoiding the problem.
The Amish could teach us some life morals if we could only follow their examples.
I understand that loss can be hard. I've lost my parents. Yes you miss them and yes it's hard to put it behind you and move on. I still miss my parents and Grandparents. But, I've learned to put it behind me and put my trust in God and hope for the best. I also believe He gave me my son to relieve some of that hurt. I still hurt because my Mom isn't there to see my baby grow up but, I know that someday she will meet her grandson in Heaven.
The people of Charm, Ohio is having a hard time putting the accident of the sawmill behind them. Aaron especially. Sometimes it's easier to blame others or take your anger out on them instead of trying to put it behind you. Aaron is having a hard time doing this. I was hoping he would come around. Mary Troyer is also having a hard time doing this. She goes out of her way to make Darla miserable like she is but thank goodness it doesn't work!!! Mary especially want Darla to forget and blames her father for the accident. Happy for Darla that she finally stood up to Mary and told her she'd had enough of Mary's abuse. Abuse can come in different forms whether verbal or physical. They both can hurt.
Luckas also lost his Pa in the disaster but at least he's trying to make a go of it. I"m so very happy that he doesn't blame anyone. Accidents do happen and it's no one's fault. I kind of felt sorry for Luke because he thinks he has to take care of everyone that lost a family member in the accident especially Darla and her family.
I'm grateful that there was a way to help Darla she just had to reach out and want that help. I'm sure it takes a lot to admit that there are some that need help.
I love it that Aaron too realized this and admitted the truth. There is hope after all!!!
I strongly recommend this book. I did check this book out from the library and still decided to help promote this title.
It does have abuse, some love, but mostly anger in it.
I liked it because of the way the Amish come together towards the end to help one of their own in need. I feel like we Englishers could do the same for others in need instead of avoiding the problem.
The Amish could teach us some life morals if we could only follow their examples.
I understand that loss can be hard. I've lost my parents. Yes you miss them and yes it's hard to put it behind you and move on. I still miss my parents and Grandparents. But, I've learned to put it behind me and put my trust in God and hope for the best. I also believe He gave me my son to relieve some of that hurt. I still hurt because my Mom isn't there to see my baby grow up but, I know that someday she will meet her grandson in Heaven.
The people of Charm, Ohio is having a hard time putting the accident of the sawmill behind them. Aaron especially. Sometimes it's easier to blame others or take your anger out on them instead of trying to put it behind you. Aaron is having a hard time doing this. I was hoping he would come around. Mary Troyer is also having a hard time doing this. She goes out of her way to make Darla miserable like she is but thank goodness it doesn't work!!! Mary especially want Darla to forget and blames her father for the accident. Happy for Darla that she finally stood up to Mary and told her she'd had enough of Mary's abuse. Abuse can come in different forms whether verbal or physical. They both can hurt.
Luckas also lost his Pa in the disaster but at least he's trying to make a go of it. I"m so very happy that he doesn't blame anyone. Accidents do happen and it's no one's fault. I kind of felt sorry for Luke because he thinks he has to take care of everyone that lost a family member in the accident especially Darla and her family.
I'm grateful that there was a way to help Darla she just had to reach out and want that help. I'm sure it takes a lot to admit that there are some that need help.
I love it that Aaron too realized this and admitted the truth. There is hope after all!!!
I strongly recommend this book. I did check this book out from the library and still decided to help promote this title.
January 18, 2016
This book is the first in the beginnings of a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray, Charmed Amish Life, set in Charm, Ohio. As the book opens we find it torn apart by grief, five men have been killed in a blast fire at the Kinsinger Lumber Plant, and it seems everyone blames someone else, although it has been ruled an accident.
Darla and Aaron Kurtz lost their father to this accident; somehow parts of this community want to place the blame on him. The ramifications of this and grief seem to have affected Aaron in a very adverse way.
This town and these families are forgetting one of the basis of their religion and that is forgiveness, whether it is true or not. Each seems to take their anger or grief out in different ways, some have turned to violence, totally out of the way they believe.
You will become a page-turner on this one and hoping for the best for all concerned, and hoping life long friendships won’t be broken. It seems that while most of the community think that Henry Kurtz was the cause, and yes it was an accident, others feel it was the Kinsinger family, whatever caused this tragedy the survivors and broken and trying to find their way back to living and their faith.
Come journey with this book, and I’m looking forward to the next in this series, and hopefully more answers will be forthcoming!
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
Darla and Aaron Kurtz lost their father to this accident; somehow parts of this community want to place the blame on him. The ramifications of this and grief seem to have affected Aaron in a very adverse way.
This town and these families are forgetting one of the basis of their religion and that is forgiveness, whether it is true or not. Each seems to take their anger or grief out in different ways, some have turned to violence, totally out of the way they believe.
You will become a page-turner on this one and hoping for the best for all concerned, and hoping life long friendships won’t be broken. It seems that while most of the community think that Henry Kurtz was the cause, and yes it was an accident, others feel it was the Kinsinger family, whatever caused this tragedy the survivors and broken and trying to find their way back to living and their faith.
Come journey with this book, and I’m looking forward to the next in this series, and hopefully more answers will be forthcoming!
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
February 1, 2016
What a beautiful start to a new series. A Son's Vow is about grief and forgiveness, and how to handle with either. Several characters dealt with grief very differently and how that grief affected their relationships with each other and with God. When tragedy struck, how did the community and the characters react? If you were in their shoes, how will you handle your pain?
We start off with Lukas and Darla trying to mend their life-long friendship, and heal as both families were deeply affected with the death of their respective fathers by the tragedy that struck the town of Charm, Ohio three months ago. Lukas, as the oldest took over responsibilities to his family mill (which is one of the main source of employment for the town) and to his siblings. Darla, as the oldest daughter felt responsible for her family's income, and farm, while the uncertainty and unpredictability of their brother, Aaron's emotional state comes into question. When things turn abusive, will Lukas and Darla realize their care towards each other is more than the feelings of childhood friendship? Will Aaron turn his grief of anger from abuse to humility and love?
For the full review: http://justcommonly.blogspot.com/2016...
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
We start off with Lukas and Darla trying to mend their life-long friendship, and heal as both families were deeply affected with the death of their respective fathers by the tragedy that struck the town of Charm, Ohio three months ago. Lukas, as the oldest took over responsibilities to his family mill (which is one of the main source of employment for the town) and to his siblings. Darla, as the oldest daughter felt responsible for her family's income, and farm, while the uncertainty and unpredictability of their brother, Aaron's emotional state comes into question. When things turn abusive, will Lukas and Darla realize their care towards each other is more than the feelings of childhood friendship? Will Aaron turn his grief of anger from abuse to humility and love?
For the full review: http://justcommonly.blogspot.com/2016...
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
January 27, 2016
My biggest problem with Amish fiction is that many of the stories feature the same main problems: what if I love someone who’s not Amish? and Should I stay within the Amish faith or leave? Those are very valid concerns, and quite respectable story lines within the genre, but ….
That’s what makes Shelley Shepard Gray’s newest book A Son’s Vow one of the best Amish stories I’ve read in years: her characters face incredibly realistic problems, yet their faith shines through brightly. Nobody will mistake Gray’s new cast of characters as living with rosy glasses on; in one way or another, everyone is facing problems head-on. These problems take Amish fiction to a new level: we’re no longer talking only about love, but about physical abuse and forgiveness and abandonment.
Gray deals with these deep topics with wisdom and compassion. I appreciate the way that her characters took time to determine a Biblical course of action. They stood up for others, whether the people attacking them were Amish or English. They took time to invest in relationships, regardless of the faith background of the other person.
I’m glad that this book is the first in a new series. I’ve read many of Gray’s books, and while she’s an excellent writer, this is definitely the best one yet. I look forward to returning to Charm.
That’s what makes Shelley Shepard Gray’s newest book A Son’s Vow one of the best Amish stories I’ve read in years: her characters face incredibly realistic problems, yet their faith shines through brightly. Nobody will mistake Gray’s new cast of characters as living with rosy glasses on; in one way or another, everyone is facing problems head-on. These problems take Amish fiction to a new level: we’re no longer talking only about love, but about physical abuse and forgiveness and abandonment.
Gray deals with these deep topics with wisdom and compassion. I appreciate the way that her characters took time to determine a Biblical course of action. They stood up for others, whether the people attacking them were Amish or English. They took time to invest in relationships, regardless of the faith background of the other person.
I’m glad that this book is the first in a new series. I’ve read many of Gray’s books, and while she’s an excellent writer, this is definitely the best one yet. I look forward to returning to Charm.
January 27, 2016
This is the first book in the series Charmed Amish Life and I'm really looking forward to the rest of the books in the series!
Darla is trying to start over after the death of her father. She gets treated poorly because the people in the community blame her and her family for the fire at the mill that killed 5 people. It has affected her family, especially her brother, in very bad ways. I was especially struck by the way one of the ladies in the community makes it her business to berate Darla every day as she works in the Post Office.
Darla is childhood friends with Lukas, who now runs the family mill after his father was killed in the fire, too. He hasn't known exactly how to go forward with his friendship with Darla after the fire but he misses her and tries to rekindle their friendship.
This book deals with what happens when people are unforgiving. It also deals with domestic abuse and I especially liked how it was handled in a very Biblical way. There was protection for the abused and confrontation to the abuser.
I read this book in one day. It was a nice cozy book with a lovely story. I liked how the romance developed naturally without being sappy sweet. Just a lovely, Amish story line. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review LitFuse Publicity Group
Darla is trying to start over after the death of her father. She gets treated poorly because the people in the community blame her and her family for the fire at the mill that killed 5 people. It has affected her family, especially her brother, in very bad ways. I was especially struck by the way one of the ladies in the community makes it her business to berate Darla every day as she works in the Post Office.
Darla is childhood friends with Lukas, who now runs the family mill after his father was killed in the fire, too. He hasn't known exactly how to go forward with his friendship with Darla after the fire but he misses her and tries to rekindle their friendship.
This book deals with what happens when people are unforgiving. It also deals with domestic abuse and I especially liked how it was handled in a very Biblical way. There was protection for the abused and confrontation to the abuser.
I read this book in one day. It was a nice cozy book with a lovely story. I liked how the romance developed naturally without being sappy sweet. Just a lovely, Amish story line. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review LitFuse Publicity Group
January 28, 2016
What a blessing it was to step into the town of Charm. Not because it was charming, though it is, and not because everyone and everything is perfect, it was not. And trouble? Yes there was that, too. But the people were human. I saw myself and my friends in the faces of Charm. They had the same goals, dreams, anxieties and distress we all have. Death and rejection change people, as do love and good fortune. As Darla, Luke, their families and friends battle with everyday living, there are glimpses of hope of a brighter day dawning, of lives changing, and of bad habits being dealt with in healthy ways. We glean wisdom from others through the characters, and I was sorry to leave Charm at the end of the story. And we all know that just because the story in a book comes to an end, does not mean the story is over. I look forward excitedly to read more about their lives.
Thank you to Amy and Chris at Litfuse Publicity Group, Shelley Shepard Gray and Avon Inspire, an imprint of HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this book. I was given a free book for the purpose of writing a review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own
Thank you to Amy and Chris at Litfuse Publicity Group, Shelley Shepard Gray and Avon Inspire, an imprint of HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this book. I was given a free book for the purpose of writing a review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own
January 16, 2016
This is a wonderfully written Amish novel that was creatively woven from beginning to end. Shelley Shepard Gray intertwines the lives of the Kurtz and Kinsinger families through a very difficult period as they and other families in Charm are trying to recover from personal tragedies. Can these families and others in Charm find forgiveness and heal after all that has happened? A Son's Vow captured me from the beginning and I read it within one day because I just couldn't put it down.
This is a wonderful first book in Shelley's new series The Charmed Amish Life.
Please be advised that I was privileged to read this paperback prior to release and was asked to provide an honest review as part of receiving it at no charge. I hope that you will enjoy it as much as I did.
This is a wonderful first book in Shelley's new series The Charmed Amish Life.
Please be advised that I was privileged to read this paperback prior to release and was asked to provide an honest review as part of receiving it at no charge. I hope that you will enjoy it as much as I did.
January 29, 2016
Can you see me happy dancing from there...? Another book... and another series from the amazing Shelley Shepard Gray! YAY! YAY! YAY!
And talk about starting things off with a bang!
A tragic accident...
The blame game...
A somewhat ostracized daughter...
And thrown into the midst of this storm... romance!
And WOW!
Shelley does not disappoint! She brings us an intriguing new series with characters whose pain we will feel deeply.
Don't miss a single book of this new series. I know I don't intend to!
Review © JCMorrows 2015
And talk about starting things off with a bang!
A tragic accident...
The blame game...
A somewhat ostracized daughter...
And thrown into the midst of this storm... romance!
And WOW!
Shelley does not disappoint! She brings us an intriguing new series with characters whose pain we will feel deeply.
Don't miss a single book of this new series. I know I don't intend to!
Review © JCMorrows 2015
January 17, 2016
Oh my goodness, what a strong and emotional story. Each book by Gray that I read seems to be better than the last. Such engrossing stories. I experienced a wide range of emotions throughout this story. Having a hard time moving on, accepting, forgiving, and then living are such hard feelings to move through, but this story steps through them in a truly healing way. I very much loved this book and highly recommend it.
September 30, 2018
While there are lots of Amish novels in the Christian fiction genre, this turned out to be a great one.
February 2, 2016
A Son's Vow by Shelley Shepard Gray is a contemporary Amish novel and the first book in the Charmed Amish Life series. It is a study of a community dealing with loss and grief, hurt and anger. It shows how people react differently when it comes to grieving. Shelley Shepard Gray deals sensitively with the subject matter. She shows how individuals and a community can rebuild their lives and move forwards. The reader is introduced to the Amish way of life. God is very much at the heart. Even if it feels like God has abandoned the people, He is still there.
Shelley Shepard Gray shows how some people are so hurt from the devastating fire in the mill, three months prior to the novel opening, that they have to play the blame game. Mary who lost her son in the fire blames Darla's father, who also lost his life. Mary transfers the blame to Darla, berating her at every opportunity but "no-one can take on the sins of the fathers."
The hurt, anger and blame game continues in Aaron, Darla's brother, who blames Lukas and Levi's father, the mill owner who also perished. Aaron is a changed man, so consumed by his anger that even his family is afraid of him. He needs help but cannot see it. He holds on to the fire and the deaths of the men and also feels guilty. He fears moving on because then he fears that the deaths did not matter. As the reader I could empathise as following our loved ones deaths, it often feels like a betrayal when one begins to laugh again.
The theme of guilt ties in to the theme of forgiveness. Many characters struggle with forgiveness in the novel. Levi is hurting and blaming Darla's father. He cannot move on. He was there as the mill exploded but could not save the men. He feels guilty. One of the reasons that he holds onto unforgiveness is because if he forgave others then he would also have to forgive himself.
Lukas is in charge of the mill now. The fire put a strain on his childhood friendship with Darla. He needs to deal with the past because the future is calling.
Shelley Shepard Gray presents a wonderful study of these characters and many more within the novel. The reader feels the sense of community with the Amish. It is a hurting community but it is one that wants to pull together and not be fractured. There is a huge sense of belonging within the novel.
Hannah lost her boyfriend Paul in the fire. She grieved but then wants to move on. She has a job as a nanny to an Englischer couple. Shelley Shepard Gray demonstrates how the Amish and Englisch communities exist side by side. It is wonderful to watch the interchanges.
I always enjoy novels by Shelley Shepard Gray and am looking forward to reading the subsequent books in the series.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
Shelley Shepard Gray shows how some people are so hurt from the devastating fire in the mill, three months prior to the novel opening, that they have to play the blame game. Mary who lost her son in the fire blames Darla's father, who also lost his life. Mary transfers the blame to Darla, berating her at every opportunity but "no-one can take on the sins of the fathers."
The hurt, anger and blame game continues in Aaron, Darla's brother, who blames Lukas and Levi's father, the mill owner who also perished. Aaron is a changed man, so consumed by his anger that even his family is afraid of him. He needs help but cannot see it. He holds on to the fire and the deaths of the men and also feels guilty. He fears moving on because then he fears that the deaths did not matter. As the reader I could empathise as following our loved ones deaths, it often feels like a betrayal when one begins to laugh again.
The theme of guilt ties in to the theme of forgiveness. Many characters struggle with forgiveness in the novel. Levi is hurting and blaming Darla's father. He cannot move on. He was there as the mill exploded but could not save the men. He feels guilty. One of the reasons that he holds onto unforgiveness is because if he forgave others then he would also have to forgive himself.
Lukas is in charge of the mill now. The fire put a strain on his childhood friendship with Darla. He needs to deal with the past because the future is calling.
Shelley Shepard Gray presents a wonderful study of these characters and many more within the novel. The reader feels the sense of community with the Amish. It is a hurting community but it is one that wants to pull together and not be fractured. There is a huge sense of belonging within the novel.
Hannah lost her boyfriend Paul in the fire. She grieved but then wants to move on. She has a job as a nanny to an Englischer couple. Shelley Shepard Gray demonstrates how the Amish and Englisch communities exist side by side. It is wonderful to watch the interchanges.
I always enjoy novels by Shelley Shepard Gray and am looking forward to reading the subsequent books in the series.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
January 16, 2016
About the Book:
Shelley Shepard Gray’s first book in her Charmed Amish Life series is set in the quaint Amish village of Charm, Ohio, and tells the stories of the Kinsinger siblings who are each struggling to find both forgiveness and love in the face of tragedy.
Three months ago, everything changed for Darla Kurtz and her family. Darla’s father was responsible for a terrible fire at Charm’s lumber mill which killed five Amish men. And though he, too, lost his life, the town of Charm hasn’t looked at her family the same since. Even Lukas Kinsinger—with whom Darla used to have a close friendship.
Now her brother’s anger at the town is spilling over onto Darla, and she has the bruises to prove it. The accident already cost five lives, but if something doesn’t change soon, Darla fears it will cost her—and her family—even more.
Lukas Kinsinger wants to mourn the loss of his father, but he can hardly find the time to breathe. Suddenly the head of his father’s lumber mill and responsible for taking care of his three siblings, he’s feeling the pressure. He has also never felt more alone—especially with the new tension between he and Darla. But when he learns of her troubles at home, Lukas knows he can’t simply stand by and watch. Someone has to help her before another tragedy occurs.
As Lukas and Darla attempt to repair their families, they discover something deeper than friendship growing between them. But will Lukas and Darla’s love be accepted after so much loss? Or will the pain of the past overcome any chance of future happiness?
My Review:
Shelley Shepard Gray hits the nail on the head, every time! She has a real knack for writing fiction any time I see a chance to read her latest I jump on it quickly. She has a rather large fan following because she writes in a way that draws you in immediately and her writing holds on to you till the last page. She is a really great writer!
Her latest, A Son's Vow in the first book in her latest series entitled, Charmed Amish Life. In it we meet Darla and her family and learn that her father responsible for a fire that killed 5 Amish men. Darla's family has lost so much due to this tragedy and she is afraid that it only getting worse because her brother has intense anger toward the town as a result.
Darla's close friend pre-fire Lukas also lost his father and it has put quite a bit of tension between the two of them. But soon Lukas sees that he will have to put all of this aside to help his friend before something else bad happens and more people get hurt. But will romance result between the two of them?
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Shelley Shepard Gray’s first book in her Charmed Amish Life series is set in the quaint Amish village of Charm, Ohio, and tells the stories of the Kinsinger siblings who are each struggling to find both forgiveness and love in the face of tragedy.
Three months ago, everything changed for Darla Kurtz and her family. Darla’s father was responsible for a terrible fire at Charm’s lumber mill which killed five Amish men. And though he, too, lost his life, the town of Charm hasn’t looked at her family the same since. Even Lukas Kinsinger—with whom Darla used to have a close friendship.
Now her brother’s anger at the town is spilling over onto Darla, and she has the bruises to prove it. The accident already cost five lives, but if something doesn’t change soon, Darla fears it will cost her—and her family—even more.
Lukas Kinsinger wants to mourn the loss of his father, but he can hardly find the time to breathe. Suddenly the head of his father’s lumber mill and responsible for taking care of his three siblings, he’s feeling the pressure. He has also never felt more alone—especially with the new tension between he and Darla. But when he learns of her troubles at home, Lukas knows he can’t simply stand by and watch. Someone has to help her before another tragedy occurs.
As Lukas and Darla attempt to repair their families, they discover something deeper than friendship growing between them. But will Lukas and Darla’s love be accepted after so much loss? Or will the pain of the past overcome any chance of future happiness?
My Review:
Shelley Shepard Gray hits the nail on the head, every time! She has a real knack for writing fiction any time I see a chance to read her latest I jump on it quickly. She has a rather large fan following because she writes in a way that draws you in immediately and her writing holds on to you till the last page. She is a really great writer!
Her latest, A Son's Vow in the first book in her latest series entitled, Charmed Amish Life. In it we meet Darla and her family and learn that her father responsible for a fire that killed 5 Amish men. Darla's family has lost so much due to this tragedy and she is afraid that it only getting worse because her brother has intense anger toward the town as a result.
Darla's close friend pre-fire Lukas also lost his father and it has put quite a bit of tension between the two of them. But soon Lukas sees that he will have to put all of this aside to help his friend before something else bad happens and more people get hurt. But will romance result between the two of them?
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
February 6, 2016
The story is set in Charm ,Ohio where a tight knit group of people live and look out for each other. As the story begins, the town is faced with a tragedy that happened at the local lumber mill. Many families have lost loved ones and each are dealing with their grief in different ways. The rumors in the town is that Darla's father may have caused the accident. Her family tries to understand what has happened, but it is hard when they have lost their dad in the accident also.
The book is an emotional journey for this quaint town. While most of the town has moved on, some have kept their anger and bitterness deep in their heart. I loved the raw emotions the characters went through. What would you do if you had lost a family member in an accident and believed someone was at fault? The accident changes Aaron, Darlas' brother , into an angry and somewhat violent young man. The author has done a brilliant job of showing what happens when you let bitterness enter your heart. Is Aaron angry because he couldn't save his dad that day? Will he be able to keep his vow to his dad? Can Darla hold her head up everyday as some of the townspeople lash out at her?
With every page I turned, I felt more compassion for these characters as they started to reach their breaking point. Why is it so hard for us to forgive ? I loved Darla and her meekness towards her brother and others who brought her to tears many times. Her gentle spirit was inspiring and a great lesson for others . Do we turn the other cheek when we are hurt by someone? This is another outstanding book written by an author who I have come to respect by her sweet spirit that flows so smoothly across the pages . Her beautiful story touches the depth of hurt and anger and gracefully walks the characters to a loving and forgiving God. Along the way you will meet several other key characters that reach out to help those who are suffering and show the real meaning of friendship and unconditional love. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves to read a story that grabs you from the beginning and leaves you with a feeling of peace and hope. Be sure to watch for the next in this series called, A DAUGHTER'S DREAM from THE CHARMED AMISH LIFE series.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
The book is an emotional journey for this quaint town. While most of the town has moved on, some have kept their anger and bitterness deep in their heart. I loved the raw emotions the characters went through. What would you do if you had lost a family member in an accident and believed someone was at fault? The accident changes Aaron, Darlas' brother , into an angry and somewhat violent young man. The author has done a brilliant job of showing what happens when you let bitterness enter your heart. Is Aaron angry because he couldn't save his dad that day? Will he be able to keep his vow to his dad? Can Darla hold her head up everyday as some of the townspeople lash out at her?
With every page I turned, I felt more compassion for these characters as they started to reach their breaking point. Why is it so hard for us to forgive ? I loved Darla and her meekness towards her brother and others who brought her to tears many times. Her gentle spirit was inspiring and a great lesson for others . Do we turn the other cheek when we are hurt by someone? This is another outstanding book written by an author who I have come to respect by her sweet spirit that flows so smoothly across the pages . Her beautiful story touches the depth of hurt and anger and gracefully walks the characters to a loving and forgiving God. Along the way you will meet several other key characters that reach out to help those who are suffering and show the real meaning of friendship and unconditional love. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves to read a story that grabs you from the beginning and leaves you with a feeling of peace and hope. Be sure to watch for the next in this series called, A DAUGHTER'S DREAM from THE CHARMED AMISH LIFE series.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
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