Rachel's Secret

Riverhaven Years #1

by B.J. Hoff

Bestselling author BJ Hoff promises to delight her many faithful readers with her compelling new series, The Riverhaven Years. With the first book, Rachel’s Secret, Hoff introduces a new community of unforgettable characters and adds the elements readers have come to expect from her a tender love story, the faith journeys of people we grow to know and love, and enough suspense to keep the pages turning quickly. When the wounded Irish American riverboat captain, Jeremiah Gant, bursts into the rural Amish setting of Riverhaven, he brings chaos and conflict to the community--especially for young widow, Rachel Brenneman. The unwelcome “outsider” needs a safe place to recuperate before continuing his secret role as an Underground Railroad conductor. Neither he nor Rachel is prepared for the forbidden love that threatens to endanger a man’s mission, a woman’s heart, and a way of life for an entire people.

Genres: Amish, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Amish Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Historical

325 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

BJ Hoff’s writing is known for her historical settings, her unforgettable characters, and her lyrical prose. She is the bestselling author of numerous historical fiction series, including the Riverhaven Years, the Mountain Song Legacy, the Song of Erin saga, the American Anthem series, An Emerald Ballad series, and her newest book Harp on the Willow.

Her five-volume Emerald Ballad series was the first major work of fiction to bring the Irish immigration experience to the CBA marketplace, and the work that first brought BJ an international reading audience.

Her readers know they can expect to meet some memorable people in her novels and also know that many of those people will be immigrants; Irish immigrants particularly but not exclusively.

BJ admits to a passion for building worlds. Whether her characters move about in small country towns or metropolitan areas, reside in Amish settlements, secluded mansions, or coal company houses, she creates communities where people can form relationships, raise families, pursue their faith, and experience the mountains and valleys of life.

She’s intent on making her historical novels relevant to the present by developing characters and settings that, while staying true to the history and culture of their times, reflect many of the spiritual trials and social problems faced by contemporary readers. Her novels are meant to be stories that build a bridge from the past to the present.

Her literary awards include the Christianity Today’s Critics Choice Book Award for fiction; a Gold Medallion Award finalist; and a number of Excellence in Media Silver Angel awards. Her books have been translated into many foreign languages, and she frequently hears from her international readers in countries such as Ireland, England, Norway, and Germany.

A former church music director and music teacher, BJ writes from her home in a small town in east central Ohio. She and her husband share a love of music, books, and time spent with their family: two daughters and three lively young grandsons.

Reviews

[Andrea Guy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first Amish historical I've read. It definitely was a different style of story from what I'm used to with Amish fiction/romance, and I have to say, it was a really enjoyable read.

Like most Amish stories there's a lot of drama involving the characters and the Englischers. In this case, an Irishman is shot and seeks the help of Rachel and her family. Jeremiah Gant is a conductor on the underground railroad, that in itself brings a whole new spin one what to expect in Amish fiction.

A lot of the story deals with the persecution of the Amish in the Riverhaven area. Rachel's husband was a victim of a violent act of hatred. When the violence starts again, families are torn apart, because the Amish believe in forgiveness and not revenge.

B.J. Hoff does a wonderful job describing how the Amish live and their beliefs. I also loved the two romances that bloom in this story, although only one comes to anything so far.

It was really easy to get wrapped up in the lives of the characters, each had something special that is brought to the story, whether it is Asa, the free man of color, helping Jeremiah with the Underground Railroad, Doc Sebastian and his secret love for Rachel's mother Susan, Fannie, Rachel's sister and Gideon her brother. These are character's you really feel like you know.

I look forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an historical novel, set in the time of the Underground Railroad. It was the first time I read an Amish fiction novel that was not set within the past 75 years, and to be honest, it was hard to remember for the most part that this was set in the 1850s. I did enjoy reading the parts about Asa and Gant's work on the Underground Railroad, and that helped me remember when this novel is set.
I enjoyed the story for the most part, but it didn't grab me like other novels I've recently read. Maybe I'll finish the series at a later date, but it will not be high on my to-read list.
(2021 re-read: I don't know what made the difference, but I ended up being more invested in this story this time around. Enough that I'm eagerly anticipating reading the next book in the series, and that I bumped my rating up from 3 stars to 4.)

[Wendy Forsyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came across this book when cleaning up at my elderly Mum's house. She recalled reading it and enjoying it- but didn't mention I'd then need to go in search of the next two books in the series! :)
Yes, this is first book (historical fiction) of the three, set in an American Amish setting and was certainly something quite different to my usual reads. The romantic aspect was a little premature I felt, but all in all the book encouraged me to want to read the last two novels as well, which I did do. A good little trilogy.

[Kareen Samuels · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of loss, love and the journey towards forgiving the self. It is often very difficult to forgive yourself. Rachel is pushed to her limit and thrown into turmoil when her young husband dies. They had just recently married and this was a huge blow to her. But she is strengthened by the love of her close knit family and the community that she has known all her life. The setting is so peaceful which highlights the use of situational irony and dramatic irony as well. The themes are relevant and impactful. My first book by this author and definitely not my last.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Although it did seem to me to be more about Susan and Dr. Sebastian. There were was details about slavery and the underground railroad. Many beautiful passages about healing hearts and forgiveness. It seemed to me that Rachel and Gant fell in love rather soon which I didnt feel convinced of. The author does address it, which I appreciated it. At some point the storyline with Asa trails off and I am wondering if she will address it it the next book in the series. Another great romance full of tender talk and touches that make me sigh and say. AWWW.

[Brooke Barenfanger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always found forbidden love desperately romantic. Hoff has sketched the characters of Rachel Brenneman and Jeremiah Gant with a finesse I have come to expect from her. She is always colorful in her language and excellent in her storytelling ability. She deals with serious themes and always shows them in a realistic manner. However, almost always at the end of her books I have found that she gives a hint of hope. She has become one of my favorite authors.

[Janie R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I've read by B.J.Hoff-a historical, Amish, with a mix of suspense,and romance. I really enjoyed her writing. It had great characters -the character of Fannie was my favorite! The Underground Railroad subplot really interests me, and I appreciated learning more about it in this story. This was a wonderful story with the theme of forgiveness and healing woven through the story. I highly recommend this book!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first bvook in the Riverhaven years trilogy. In book one an wounded Irish American riverboat captain shows up at Rachel's house. Rachel is Amish and has to contend with the Amish community being upset by a widow having a man at her house. The captain brings more danger because he is part of the underground railroad. The book just stops leaving several loose ends so you will read the next in the series.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a story about an Amish family living in Ohio in 1855. It addresses the challenges they face due to their traditions and beliefs. They struggle with what would be God's will when they are faced with caring for an injured outsider. The book ends keeping you wondering about what happens next. It is part of a series and I may need to read the next book.
This was one of my book club reads and very easy to read.

[Paula-O · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel's Secret -book#1 of series"The Riverhaven Years" by B J Hoff


I read book#2 first and then had to go find 1-3 at library to finish the story. This is a great series and you won't want to miss any of the books.
I enjoyed the characters and wanted to hear the "whole" story.

[Tina Guffey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful story of captive hearts in a historical setting.

[Rachel Kenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

i really enjoyed this book but if you are not a christian i suggest you do not read this n=]because this is a strong christian story

[Linda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story studded with beautiful prose. Loved it.

[Rosemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by this author, and it was very good. It takes place in Ohio in the 1850s. Rachel Brenneman, a young widow, has the outside world thrust upon her when a severely injured man and his freed-slave companion come to her door for help in the middle of a stormy night. Torn between wanting to help the injured man and being afraid to let in strangers - and two men at that - Rachel decides to let them in. She discovers that the man was shot protecting his companion while they were on their way to pick up slaves to escort on the Underground Railroad. Asa, the freed slave, leaves to continue the journey, promising to come back, while his friend, Captain Jeremiah Gant, heals, leaving Rachel in a bind with her community. To make matters worse, while nursing the Captain back to health (along with the care of the community's physician), Rachel begins to have feelings for the outsider, which is forbidden. Yet, even worse than that is the continued struggle Rachel has over the violent death of her husband - which all comes raging back after her younger sister is attacked.

This is the first in a trilogy, and the author pushes and pulls the reader along with suspense as Asa tries to get women and children to their destination without getting caught, with sympathy for Rachel's emotional - and religious - dilemma, and with interpersonal intrigue between the characters. A great read. I'm looking forward to reading book 2.

[Linda Klager · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story about a young Amish woman who gets a surprise visit from 2 strangers. She had to make a quick decision whether or not to help them. Normally a young Amish woman who lives alone and is widowed would not take in "Englishers". It is not acceptable behavior for them. These 2 strangers were not a threat to her and really needed her help. I'm so glad that she chose to be "like Jesus" in showing compassion to them. I liked the inclusion of the story of the "Underground Railroad" in this book. What a turbulent time in America and so thankful for those who put their lives on the line to help the less fortunate. There is a man by the name of Asa in this story and I hope that the author continues with his story in book 2 of this series. I am so ready to read book #2!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Amish are so forgiving - I'm not sure I could forgive as easily as Fannie did with her attackers, or as Rachel did when they attacked her and her husband and killed her husband. Jeremiah is such a likable character you can't help but wish there was a way for him and Rachel to be together. Amish ways are definitely different but two men are willing to make that sacrifice for the woman they love. The Underground Railroad part of the book needed more explored. Asa's travels rarely get mentioned so you don't know if he is bound for Canada or not. Look forward to reading book two in the series as it is a book club book for this month.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an Amish historical romance novel. It was well written. I love the story lines, the characters,
and the fact that it is a clean read but also not boring or poorly written. The back page says it is a novel to reflect the author's efforts to make her stories relevant to the present and still cross the boundaries of religion, language, and culture. I agree. The only bad thing is, now I have to find book # 2 because I have to see how things progress in the storyline. The themes of family, staying true to who you are and the love of God dominates. How refreshing

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young Fannie has lost something precious on Christmas day; that changed her young life and what how cold hearted some people can be, bullies. This story revolves around Irish riverboat Captain Gant coming to Amish community, River Haven; being severely hurt and seeking shelter. It also shows that his past life become apparent and his affection for a widowed Amish girl, Rachel. the first book of the series, The River Haven years; and I will continue with this series that piques my interest

[Sarah January · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel, a young Amish widow, gets a couple of surprise visitors late one rainy night. One being an Irish riverboat captain that was shot in the leg while doing "conductor" work and the other a freed slave. Over the course of the captain's healing, a friendship develops and some surprises occur.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this delightful and interesting Amish novel. I look forward to reading # 2 in this series.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rachel is an interesting and independent character, and the story is a surprising one.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a realistic ending.

[M · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just okay.

[Sandra Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book

I had searched for Christian books and so glad I found this one. Although I know very little about the Amish people, this was a wonderful book.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story about Amish life. Planning to read the sequal as well.

[Kathy Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. You root for Rachel all the way through. She has some tough obstacles to overcome. Well written. I thought it was a page turner.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good book

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute, palate cleansing read from this author. The storyline is predictable but also has a good flow to the plot and side stories that happen during this book.

[Sarah Udall · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the book. Rachel is a widow in an amish community. Her house is mistaken one night to be on the underground railroad. Captain Jeremiah Gant is wounded, his friend Asa a freeman helps him get there. Rachel has the Doctor Sebastian come along with her mother Susan Kanagy, sister Fannie and bother Gideon. Rachel takes care of Gant and develops feelings for him and he for her but not much can happen since he is not amish. Since Gant recovers but not fully he can't continue being a conductor on the underground railroad. Fannie is a sweet young girl ends up being beat up by outsiders. She recovers, although that tragedy hits to close form home with rachel. It was how her husband died. She is still struggling with it. Eventually she learns to accept God's grace and receives peace. Gideon struggles to find a purpose to life. Has a hard time with the doctrine of no retaliation. He stays outside the community to get work but comes and goes to help with the farms of mother and sister. Doctor sebastian as for permission to join the amish faith. Asa returns from being a conductor on the underground railroad. Gant moves to one of the doctors houses.

[Marijke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mooi boek over een amish vrouw.....die verliefd word op een buitenstaander....het verhaal speelt zich al in 1850 ....op een avond staat er een slaaf met zn zwaar gewonden kapitein voor haar deur...ze besluit de kapitein te helpen ondanks haar angst voor de amish gemeenschap...samen met haar moeder broer en zus helpen ze de gewonde kapitein....het is een verwarden tijd voor rachel ze wil het geloof trouw blijven maar ze worden verliefd....ondertussen gebeuren er allemaal aanslagen op de amish gemeenschap...hun geloof zegt dat ze niet terug mogen slaan en moeten vergeven wat er gebeurd maar als haar zusje word aangevallen en mishandeld kan haar broer en de kapitein dat niet zomaar vergeten....ook gaat het over de slavernij de kapitein met zijn vrijgemaakt slaaf waren bezig slaven te helpen vluchten ..ook een gezin van de amish is daar bij betrokken wat ook een groot geheim moet blijven.... Want ze zijn bang dat ze daardoor uit de amish gemeenschap word gezet...dat gezin is ook weer bevriend met rachel die er uiteindelijk achterkomt waar ze mee bezig zijn.ben benieuwd naar deel 2 hoe het verder af gaat lopen..