When the Bishop Needs an Alibi

The Amish Bishop Mysteries #2

by Vannetta Chapman

There's a Terrible Secret Hiding in the Bulrushes

Amish bishop Henry Lapp eagerly awaits the annual arrival of 20,000 sandhill cranes to the San Luis Valley of Colorado. But his visit to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge reveals more than just a miracle of God's creation. Hidden among the bulrushes and cattails is the body of Sophia Johnson—one of Monte Vista's newest residents and a waitress at the local diner.

As the local authorities attempt to unravel the mystery, Henry finds himself drawn to the young woman's family and once again feels God's calling to use his extraordinary talent to aid in the investigation. His ability to draw from memory in photographic detail could help solve the case. It might also put Henry and those he loves in the direct path of a killer willing to do anything it takes to cover up a brutal crime.

What happens when Henry embraces his gift and trusts in God's protection, knowing that danger could be lurking close by?

Genres: Amish, Mystery, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Amish Fiction, Suspense, Cozy Mystery

354 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 29, 2017

About the author

Vannetta Chapman is a New York times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over t0 novels. She has sold over one million copies and writes in a variety of genres that include dystopian, suspense, dystopian, romantic suspense, romance, and cozy mystery.

Chapman has 25 years educational experience as an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.

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Reviews

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

A reread that is just as good the second time around

---

There is something spectacularly delicious about an Amish Bishop Super Sleuth! And Henry's unique gift makes the mystery unraveling all the more intriguing. The kindly bishop wants nothing more than to shepherd his flock and pursue a certain widow who has caught his eye but his love for bird watching propels him into an all too familiar scenario -- one where he becomes the prime suspect in a murder. It's clearly a setup -- which also suggests that someone in law enforcement must be involved. Things don't look good for Henry, but his friends and community -- both Amish and Englisch rally around the beloved bishop.

A heartwarming cozy filled with humour, faith and intrigue.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Amish Bishop Mysteries and the adventures continue for Henry Lapp, bishop of his Amish congregation in San Luis Valley, Colorado, and his friends, especially his best friend, Emma Fisher. I really enjoyed this book as the action kept me turning the pages and guessing until the end.

Sophia is a new waitress working at Maggie's Diner and there is something about her that touches Henry. She appears to be afraid and on edge. With Henry's caring heart, he reaches out to her and tries to get her to talk. When something happens to her, Henry is accused of harming her but someone is out to frame him. He is even arrested and jailed for the crime. Imagine, an Amish bishop having to endure an Englisch jail! Henry's faith enables him to have strength and courage in the face of such a time. After the judge at the initial hearing allows him to be released from jail, he, Emma and her family set out to try to figure out who is responsible for the crime. As in the first book where we see Henry's extraordinary gift of drawing from his subconscious memory, he once more draws scenes of a photographic nature that help solve the crime. As Emma and Henry are drawn into the investigation and their lives are endangered, they realize just how much they care about each other.

This is another great suspense that will keep the pages turning and mystery unsolved until the end. I couldn't read it fast enough and had too many other things that interrupted my reading time. Ms. Chapman once more has a winner with a great story line and well developed, likable and real characters. Her stories always have a good lesson in faith, courage and wisdom. I can't wait for another book to come out with more adventures for Henry and Emma as they continue to see where their feelings will lead them.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for the opportunity to read and give an honest review.

[Vera Godley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a book I previously reviewed for author, Vannetta Chapman, the following quote really stood out to me...... and I came across it toward the end of When The Bishop Needs an Alibi when the Amish bishop and two others were in the midst of dire danger. It bears repeating.

"Courage is fear that has said it's prayers."
(pg. 129 A Wedding for Julia by Vannetta Chapman)


My thoughts: We met the Amish bishop, Henry Lapp recently in What the Bishop Saw and we learned that he is a gentle, kindly man who is the over shepherd and leader of the community of Amish. He also has quite an unusual talent of being able to subconsciously recall and draw in minute detail scenes he has visited or witnessed. This is because he is an "accidental savant."

Previously the Bishop was involved in solving a mystery using this unusual talent and now he is again embroiled in the terrible situation where a young woman loses her life.

The story locale is the beautiful Colorado San Luis Valley and Bishop Henry is an avid "birder" who loves watching the cranes that frequent the area that has marshes, mountains, and huge sand dunes. But all is not beautiful in this lovely place.

As the kindly and gentle Amish folk gather in the local diner for coffee or a meal or as they gather at the local bakery run by three Amish widow ladies, they pursue clues with their chatter, curiosity, and somewhat meddlesome way. But though fraught with danger, it's all good on their part and the outcome is good. You see, much is afoot in the world of evil and crime and these dear folk seem to get themselves stuck right in the middle of it.

You'll fall in love with the bishop because he is insightful, kind, and full of wisdom which he graciously shares with any and all. Even though falsely accused, he holds no animosity. Even though a pacifist, he knows when to act to protect. And dear Bishop Henry has a precious dog by his side, Lexi which we met in the first book about the Bishop.

I highly recommend this new book by Vannetta Chapman and you can always depend on her books to be clean reads that are "full of grace."

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in this series is just as good as the first one, and I could not put it down once I turned the first page.
We see this beautiful, majestic country through the eyes of Henry, the Amish Bishop, and Emma, a long time friend of Henry’s, and we travel around this Amish Community, which takes place in the San Luis Valley of Colorado in the foothills surrounding the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As with the first book, Henry’s gift of being able to draw with a rather photographic memory helps with the solving of a horrendous crime.
When we first start reading we are soon aware of a crime, but it is so much deeper than we realize, and there is so much evil. The author has us walking in Henry’s shoes, and with our hearts in our throat, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
You will keep guessing what is going on, and who is responsible right to the very end, and we can only hope that those we care about will survive.
I would love to be able to go to a church meeting in Henry’s district, oh if only it weren’t fiction, and of course it would help if I were Amish.
Thank you Vannetta, I loved this time I spent in Colorado, and I want to go and see the cranes.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Teresa Merriman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun mystery to read! I love the characters and the mystery kept me wondering.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlike psychics, who help in some murder cases, Bishop Henry Lapp uses his gift of photographic memory combined with drawing to aid in mysteries in his Amish community. His life as well as that of his dear friend, Emma, will be in danger because of his drawings. This 2nd book in The Amish Bishop Mysteries kept me guessing until the very end. I love reading about the Amish and I truly enjoy a good mystery, and this book is one of my favorites now.
While part of a series, the book can be read as a standalone although it might prove more interesting to read the first book in the series as well.
I am rating this book 5 ***** stars and highly recommend it to readers.
I received a downloaded version of this book from netgalley and Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this one so much! Amish stories can sometimes be a little too sweet and cosy, so the addition of murder and adventure to these books makes them a perfect mix. I love that it’s about older people as well and not 20-somethings.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Bishop Needs An Alibi is the second amazing novel written by Vanetta Chapman in her The Amish Bishop Mysteries series. When the story opens we are reacquainted with the amazing characters from book one. With a little bit of history from the previous book we remember the fantastic gift that Bishop Henry has been blessed with. When Henry sits down in the local cafe with the intention of drawing a mountain scenery he ends up with something very different and mysterious.

When reading this amazing story you will feel like you are involved in the story from the very distinctive descriptions that the author provides. The mountains seem to appear right in front of you. You will feel prickly hairs standing on end when danger is near. I felt like I was involved in the murder mystery that was taking place. The author adds more characters to the storyline as the mystery progresses which really makes you wonder what is going to happen next.

The Amish community is appalled when Bishop Henry is arrested for the murder of a young waitress that he barely knows. What is the connection between the two? Why does this murder bring Henry, Emma, and a stranger out to the great sand dunes in the middle of the night? What outrageous crime do they discover while they are out there.? There is a great deal of suspense in this story which kept me reading trying to solve the mystery. I wasn't really sure who to trust by the end of the book!

I was given a complimentary eBook from the author and Net Galley to read and review. I was not asked to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for a wonderful story that meant my expectations of a book that I would highly recommend to others. All opinions and statements expressed in this review are strictly my own.

Congratulations to Vanetta Chapman on delivering another outstanding mystery for her readers. It is a great addition to her series and I will be anticipating her next book for release.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently I read an *interview with Vannetta Chapman from 2012. She said a task that God gave her was to offer people hope and grace through her stories. I think she kept to that task as she wrote When the Bishop Needs an Alibi. Readers will see the story's main character Henry Lapp always has a proverb or a Bible verse to share that offers hope, even in a not so rosy situation. He also truly wants to help everyone and extend God's grace to them. He doesn't just reach out to those he knows and loves or those deemed good enough or deserving. Henry extends his friendship to Englisher Sophia and shortly after needs an alibi for a crime that was committed against her.

I didn't want to put this book down. It was easy to picture the Colorado setting as I read. Old and new friendships remain steadfast through every situation. The Amish characters' trust in God never falters. Henry is so huggable, I so enjoy him and his ways! I like him as much as David Stoltzfus, the bishop in Suzanne Woods Fishers' The Bishop's Family series. There is a blossoming romance that is sweet. Oh, and how could I forget to mention that a crime or two occur. There is an interesting mystery blended into the story that points out how important community is to everyone. Be sure to check out When the Bishop Needs an Alibi. I think you'll finish it realizing that being a believer doesn't mean zero hard times will come your way but God is right there always helping you through when you are looking and asking for his help. I was provided a complimentary review copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Mystica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished one book set in a National Park and now this one was set in Colorado in an obviously scenic area famous for cranes - 20,000 of them visiting the valley and the area which is a refuge for these gorgeous birds.

Different however from others is that this is my first read of the Amish community. It was certainly educative. The Bishop who is the chief character in this story leads his flock by example and is a very strong and good man. Not aggressive by nature at all, more by dealing in kindness and compassion he is nevertheless for the second time involved in an unsavoury murder. Finding a young woman's body in the bulrushes is bad enough, but when he has associated with her before her death and when so many clues linking him to the young woman is found in his house things are suddenly not looking too good for not just the Bishop but for his people.

Uncovering the small clues left behind is a laborious process. With the lack of telephones, computers and anything which would be considered imperative for an investigation the Bishop and his small coterie of supporters unravel a much bigger scheme of corruption which involves people at very high levels.

Very simply told as suitable to the theme of the Amish, this was a very pleasant read.

[Kayt18 · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read! Even better than the first. Author Vannetta Chapman's writing style is so comforting that when there is action and suspense it hits you even harder. A true delight to read. Wonderful characters and storyline and a super read. If you haven't bought this yet, do it now. You will love it!

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

When The Bishop Needs an Alibi is book two in The Amish Bishop Mysteries series by Vannetta Chapman. Chapman has a great series with these two books so far. This book hooked me right from the start and it was very hard to put down. Henry Lapp is a unique Bishop and I can honestly say that I have never read of someone quite like him in any series previously. This book can be a standalone book but I would recommend reading the first book in the series, What the Bishop Saw. There we learn of Henry’s ability as a savant. Emma Fisher, Henry’s dear friend, urges him to use his gift to help those in need.
Bishop Lapp goes to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge planning to see the Sandhill Cranes, but instead he stumbled over a dead body of a young woman just to find out that she was a waitress from their local diner. As a frequent to the local diner, he knows of the troubles that Sophia has been facing as she confided in him some just a few days prior. When Henry becomes the main suspect in Sophia’s murder, the community must come together to assist him in uncovering the mystery Sophia had been investigating all along.
This is another great suspense novel by Chapman and one that will keep the reader entertained until the end. What a great story line and well developed, likable characters. I can't wait to see what adventures are in store for Henry and Emma in the next novel.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher and netgalley in return for my honest opinion of the book.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again Vannetta Chapman has created a cast of lovable characters who are heroic, faithful, and devoted to each other. She does a beautiful job of recreating the setting on the sand dunes of Colorado's beautiful Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge. The twist and turns of the mystery kept me turning the pages, but it was Emma and Henry who really made me love this story. It's good to see an older couple find love. It makes the world seem a kinder, more hopeful place. If you're looking for a clean cozy mystery with a good story and characters you can root for, try it!

[Cherry Graffham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Didn't want to put it down.

Yet another amazing book by Vannetta Chapman.
She expertly shows how you can have a brilliant thriller story without the use of bad language, sex or gratuitous violence.
As always the simplicity of the Amish faith is such a comfort.
Along with the thriller story you have the blossoming relationship between Henry and Emma late in life.
So much detail is included both in the story and in the information. It seems so real, you can see the birds and the sandunes. You can imagine Sophies body in the rushes.
Thank you Vannetta.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid 4.5 stars. I truly enjoyed this well titled book . I'm not sure why it doesn't write five stars for me . It's just never quite pulled me in . The characters were all from good to excellent . I do recommend the book.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! Great story!! Can't wait to read the next book in the series!! Haven't read much by this author will read more of her books!!

[Gay Loesch · Rating 4 out of 5]

The humor of everyday mishaps and solving a mystery with lots of twists and turns for the reader is what Chapman pens in this second book of the series The Amish Bishop Mysteries

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi by Vannetta Chapman is the second installment in The Amish Bishop Mysteries. Henry Lapp is the bishop of the small Amish community in San Luis Valley, Colorado. Henry is out birdwatching with his beagle, Lexi at the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge when he discovers the body of Sophia Brooks. Sophia had been in town for about five weeks where she worked at Maggie’s Diner (Henry eats several meals a week at the diner). Henry could tell that something was troubling Sophia by her nervous and furtive behavior. Henry and Emma Fisher tried to help the woman, but she would not let them assist her. When Henry ends up being the police’s prime suspect in Sophia’s death, he can tell someone is setting him up. It is up to Henry’s friends to follow the clues and clear his name. Henry had done some drawings of Sophia at the diner that aids the group in their investigation. But the killer is willing to go to great lengths to keep his activities under wraps.

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is well-written and has a great main character. Ms. Chapman’s word imagery brings the scenes alive. I like Henry Lapp with his unwavering convictions, strong faith, love of animals, his gentle nature and his unique ability. Emma Fisher is the perfect companion/counterpart for Henry. They nicely complement each other. I thought When the Bishop Needs an Alibi to have a nice, steady pace and full of suspense. I kept reading to see what would happen next. The mystery is complicated, but only a small part can be solved before the reveal. The mystery is one that plays out and we must read to find out how it will turn out (that was disappointing). As most of you know, I prefer a mystery that I can solve. While When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is the second novel in this series, it can be a stand-alone. Everything a reader needs to know is included in this story (about the community, Henry’s ability, what happened to Henry in the past, his relationship with Emma). However, I do recommend reading What the Bishop Saw as it is a wonderful story. My rating for When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). The ending is heartwarming and so sweet (it will make you smile). There are discussion questions, recipes, and a glossary at the end of the book. I will definitely be reading Who the Bishop Knows when it comes out next spring.

[Patricia Bond · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHEN THE BISHOP NEEDS AN ALIBI ( THE AMISH BISHOP MYSTERIES #2)

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is the second book in Vannetta Chapman's The Amish Bishop Mysteries) The first book in this series is What the Bishop Saw.

Once again, Henry Lapp the bishop of the Amish community of the San Luis Valley, finds himself in the middle of another mysterious death. While watching the Sanhill Cranes in Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, Henry stumbles across the body of a deceased young woman.

As local and federal law enforcement tries to solve the murder, Henry once again finds himself using his God given "gift" to help in the investigation.

Henry learns that his involvement in help solving this crime will put himself and his friends, including Emma Fisher, in very grave danger. This killer will stop at nothing to cover his crime up .
When Henry is "framed" for the murder of this young woman, will be able to prove his innocence with the the help of his friends.

For a book that is full of suspense, friendship, faith, and being able to face grave danger, I suggest that you get yourself a copy of When The Bishop Needs an Alibi. Vannetta Chapman's story will keep you turning page after page to find out all that is involved in this great mystery.

I also suggest that you pick yourself up a copy of What The Bishop Saw, the first book in The Amish Bishop Mysteries . It will be filled with suspense also.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

While at the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge watching the annual arrival of the sandhill cranes, Bishop Henry Lapp stumbles over a dead body of a young lady he knows. In a bizarre turn of events, the FBI take over the investigation and Henry is arrested for her murder.

Henry has used his gift before to help solve crimes so he creates several drawings of the woman at different times he was around her. His best friend, Emma, and her family know there are clues to the real murderer in Henry's drawings. Will they be able to unravel the mystery and reveal the killer before Henry is convicted of a murder he did not commit? The community knows their Bishop can not be guilty but when the English law enforcement officers think they already have the guilty party, will the Amish community go against their pacifist ways to prove Henry innocent?

I really enjoyed When the Bishop Needs an Alibi by Vannetta Chapman, Book 2 in The Amish Bishop Mysteries. My favorite quote in the book is "Courage is simply fear that has said its prayers". What an awesome Amish Proverb and it really speaks volumes about having faith and believing God does have your back, no matter the situation you're in. I highly recommend this book and can't wait for Who The Bishop Knows coming out in the Spring of 2018.

I received an advanced copy from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion and views.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

When The Bishop Needs an Alibi ( The Amish Bishop Mysteries - #2)
By: Vannetta Chapman
When The Bishop Needs an Alibi is book two in The Amish Bishop Mysteries series by Vannetta Chapman. Wow, I absolutely love it . Chapman has herself another winning series. She captured me right at the start and I was hooked. She did not disappoint. I really love Amish Bishop Henry Lapp. I don’t think that I have ever read of a bishop like him. He is kind and loving and wants to help everyone. Bishop Henry goes to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge planning to see the Sandhill Cranes, but instead he stumbled over a dead body of a young woman he knew. This was not what the bishop was looking to find. Who would want to kill this woman? If you read the first book you know about Bishop Henry’s special talent, God’s gift. Henry has gotten close to Emma Fisher and she urges him to use his gift. I love the friendship between these two. Who would want to frame the bishop? Will Bishop Henry’s friends help to free him? Bishop Henry is a suspect, did he do it? When I started reading When The Bishop Needs an Alibi I did not want to put it down for nothing. Looking forward to reading book three in this series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Harvest House Publishers and NetGalley, But I was not told that I had to give a positive review.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a fan of Amish fiction and mysteries and when a writer puts them together it is a homerun. I loved the first book, What the Bishop Saw, but the second is even better. I adore the bishop, Henry. I want someone like him in my life. Kind, caring, a great listener and thinks outside the box. He and Emma make the perfect team solving mysteries and as a romantic couple.

As with most of Vannetta Chapman's works, you will not be able to put this down. I was able to read this book in a little under 24 hours as I was still reading at 2 am. I just had to know what was going to happen next. Every time the hubby woke up last night he was asking, "are you still reading?" Yes, yes I am dear.

Henry is your typical bachelor, Amish or English, in that he does like to eat at home very often so he goes to Maggie's Diner in town. He has befriended a waitress, Sophia, and decides one day to draw her helping an elderly couple. That drawing spooks Sophia and raises flags for Henry that she may be in trouble. Unfortunately, he finds her body in the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge while watching a family of cranes. Discovering her body lands him in jail and sets the community on edge. Will Henry's friends be able to use the drawings to prove his innocence? Hunker down with a good cup of tea because you are in for one wild buggy ride.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for an ARC to read in exchange for my own honest review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn’t Put it Down!

Vannetta Chapman has found a winner with her Amish Bishop Mysteries series. I was blown away by the first in the series, What the Bishop Saw. But could Book Two, When the Bishop Needs an Alibi, measure up? Absolutely!

Mild-mannered Bishop Henry Lapp…who happens to be a savant…is back! He is loving his laid-back life – until he’s in the middle of a murder, yet again.

There’s a new Englischer in town. She’s a waitress at the local diner, and something is not right. The Bishop tries to befriend her – to help her and whatever is causing her major distress.

When there is a murder, all signs point to the Bishop – and he’s in need of an alibi. His long-time friend (and then some), Emma, and her family must solve the crime quickly – before anyone else turns up dead. Perhaps Henry’s infamous sketches will help? Read and find out!

I was give When the Bishop Needs an Alibi in exchange for my honest review. It is incredible. Your heart will beat at a rapid thrum as you fly through the novel, late in the evening. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I strongly recommend reading Book One first to give you the history of Henry’s gift – and to create an even deeper richness to the storylines. I can hardly wait to see what Chapman does in the sequel. Grab your copy today!

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi wowed me from the opening sentence of this amazing story set in San Luis Valley of Colorado by Vannetta Chapman. This book is filled with strong characters, vivid descriptive words and an astonishing storyline. Bishop Lapp’s God given talent of a photographic memory once again plays a vital role in this fantastic Amish mystery filled with action, persistence, compassion, faith and love for God, and perhaps even a budding romance. My emotions and senses were on alert throughout this page turner story. I was in the moment of each conversation, action with visualization of the scenes, whether it was a scary high alert moment or a tender moment between the remarkable characters.

Bishop Henry is a lovable, compassionate bishop who wants only the best for his families as well as others in the community. When he is sitting in the diner he draws a picture of a young waitress that seems to be on the lookout to see who is entering the diner each time the door opened. He captured her emotions with an older lady and so much more. Bishop Henry enjoyed going to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge to observe the Sandhill Cranes as they passed through the area, thus he was shocked when he discovered a body of someone he was acquainted with. No time lapsed before the FBI moved in and had Bishop Henry arrested for the crime, even though the sheriff believed he was innocent. Who’s going to unearth the real suspects? How will the drawings Henry created before his arrest provide possible answers? I was kept guessing till the dramatic ending as to who was behind the crime in Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge.

Vannetta Chapman never fails to deliver a clear message of God’s faithfulness even in a mystery plot. I look forward to reading the next book in her Amish Bishop Mysteries series.

I received a complimentary copy of When the Bishop Needs an Alibi from the author as a winner on her blog post. I was not required to write a positive review but have expressed my honest thoughts.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series by Vannetta Chapman! Imagine the most peaceful, serene atmosphere you know(for many of us, an Amish community). Juxtapose that against the worst scenario possible(trying to expose a crime while hoping not to lose your life). Bingo. Herein is the setting for Chapman's second book of the Amish Bishop series, When the Bishop Needs an Alibi.

First of all, I am in love with the gentleness of these particular people Chapman has presented. This is one unusual bishop in an Amish community. He truly loves his people and loves helping them with their burdens. Indeed, it is this compassion that draws him to Sophia Brooks.

I enjoyed the physical setting of the book as well. The San Luis Valley of Colorado sits between mountains and has (at least, in this story) a nature preserve. How awesome it sounded!

Chapman enjoys including relevant Amish proverbs, a few English proverbs, and many well-placed Bible verses. These enhance the story so much.

One thing I like, though, is that the Amish and Englischers have found a way to live and work together. Every community could take lessons in compatibility from this area.

Unfortunately, good as this book was, it reminded me at the end of a phone call with a loved one that can't quite end. The book reached its climax, then seemed to have an afterthought. Then that chapter finished, and there would be another seeming afterthought. Then another. The book could have wrapped up neatly a little earlier.

All in all, though, a story not to be missed. It can be a stand alone, but is much better read as the second book in the series. Waiting to see if there will be a third.

[Sarah Harden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystery and suspense rolled into an Amish romance to create a novel most every reader would enjoy!

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is yet another page-turner from Vannetta Chapman. From her very real characters to events that will have you wanting to pray for the safety of those characters, this is one of those stories you won't want to set down. I don't typically read a lot of Amish fiction, but this is not your stereotypical Amish story.

My mind was working to put the pieces together as I read, and yet while the mystery unfolded, relationships developed and fast friendships were discovered. I think my favorite character was Emma. Her warmth and compassion made her very likable, and I literally laughed out loud at one of her teasing comments to Tess. Such a sweet, loving woman!

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is the second book in the Amish Bishop Mysteries series. While you can certainly enjoy the book as a stand-alone, I would recommend reading the first one (What the Bishop Saw) first. There are references to things that happened previously sprinkled throughout this story, and since I have not yet read the first one, I felt I was missing out. Now I'm anxious to go back and read it!

(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I rarely read novels in the saturated Amish genre but this mystery caught my interest. I'm glad I read the book as I really enjoyed it.

Chapman has crafted a novel that shows how Amish and “English” form friendships and work together. The plot is woven around a murder. The bishop of the local Amish community had tried to be a friend to a young woman, new in the nearby town. I liked his compassion for her, knowing she was troubled by something. But when he finds her body, he is accused of the murder. I liked how the community, both Amish and “English” friends, come to his aid, determined to find the real killer.

I really appreciate that Chapman has portrayed the Amish community in what seems to me to be a realistic way. I like that she has added some humor to the story too. Her research into the local scenery and the migratory birds was informative as well.

I recommend this mystery to readers who appreciate a well plotted one. You'll learn how people in a small Amish community relate to the “English” too.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Ellen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHEN BISHOP NEEDS ALIBI by Vannetta Chapman. Series Amish Bishop Mystery book 2
Having read the first one, which I thought was very good, interesting plot, and showed the bishop as someone human, approachable. His gift helped solved a murder.
Henry is once again, drawing, most the time unaware of what he is capturing. He's trying to embrace this gift from God, and with encouragement from Emma, his friend. The waitress, wants to know why, did someone tell him to do this, its not a drawing, the detail, is like a photo, she says. The community is trying to keep Sophia safe. Her thoughts are of doubts and fears, didn't trust her instincts anymore. They give her a place to stay, without a phone, internet, maybe they can't find her, she thinks.
While at the reserve Henry stumbles upon a body, that leads to his arrest. Will the community and his drawing, give the details needed to free him. Another good plot, intriguing to the end, the characters are well defined.
Readers will enjoy this new series.Looking forward to the next one, in this series. Given ARC by Net Galley for my honest opinion and my voluntary review.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi by Vannetta Chapman is the story of an Amish Bishop who gets framed for murder. Bishop Henry Lapp and his friends help a young woman on the run from dangerous men. One day, as he is out birding, Bishop Lapp stumbles on this young woman’s body. He is soon charged with her murder and the evidence seems stacked against him. He relies on God and his friends to help him sort out the true perpetrators of this crime. This is not my usual genre, but the storyline in this book intrigued me and I am now hooked on this series. I did not find it difficult to read this book as a standalone novel. The author quickly drew me into the story while introducing the characters just enough that it all made sense. I have never read an Amish book with characters that seemed this real or this lovable. The author paints the characters in such a way that makes you want to meet them at their local diner and spend time with them. Somehow, their crime solving is also just as believable. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading other books in this series. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Kay Defreese · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is a cozy mystery. I enjoyed revisiting with the people we met in the first back. I loved the Bishop. He not only cared and loved the people in his flock but showed concerned and sympathy for those outside the Amish faith. Like in the previous book he uses his skills at drawing from his subconscious mind to solved a mystery. This mystery involves a woman he befriended and was murdered and he is the main suspect. All his family and friends and even some of his non Amish friends know he is innocent but how does he prove it? This book kept me turning the pages to see who did it. If you are looking for a book heavy on romance this book is not it. There is a developing friendship with an Amish widow woman close to his age that is turning into a sweet romance but no public display of affection in this book.

This book kept me engaged and I look forward to the next in the series which will be released in the Spring of 2018. Thanks to netgalley and Harvest House publishers for providing me a digital book to read and review. When the Bishop Needs an Alibi is due to be released on September 1, 2017.