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Big Sky #3
Beyond Hope’s Valley
After an extended stay in Montana, where Amish traditions are different than in her home state, Marianna Sommer returns to Indiana for two reasons, first to help her brother and his girlfriend prepare for a baby and their wedding. Second, to plan her own wedding to Aaron Zook—a marriage she’s been dreaming about ever since childhood. And yet, although she had missed the idyllic farms and families of her upbringing, Marianna is surprised that Indiana is somehow making her long now for Montana.
As months pass, secrets that were hidden in winter’s frozen grasp thaw and take on a life of their own. The truths about a child, about a past relationship, and about God’s plans are being revealed. Walking through a valley of questions, Marianna must hold on to hope as she decides where and with whom her heart truly belongs.
"The details of Amish living are interesting in this sweet love story with characters with charm and wit. Goyer is a talented author who always delivers a well-thought-out, meaningful novel the reader will not soon forget."
--RT Book Reviews
As months pass, secrets that were hidden in winter’s frozen grasp thaw and take on a life of their own. The truths about a child, about a past relationship, and about God’s plans are being revealed. Walking through a valley of questions, Marianna must hold on to hope as she decides where and with whom her heart truly belongs.
"The details of Amish living are interesting in this sweet love story with characters with charm and wit. Goyer is a talented author who always delivers a well-thought-out, meaningful novel the reader will not soon forget."
--RT Book Reviews
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2012
170 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Tricia Goyer
163 books1,675 followersTricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
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March 13, 2014
Beyond Hope's Valley, By: Tricia Goyer
This is the final book in the series.
It continues the story of Marianna Sommer’s
and her intended Aaron Zook. Marianna’s
heart still belongs to Ben an englishman
that she met in Montana. Even though
Marianna keeps pushing her feelings for
Ben aside. Believing that she and Aaron
are meant to be together. Aaron has built a home
for the two of them on his family’s property.
Yet something about Aaron keeps nagging at her.
Like he is hiding something from her.
Marianna’s brother Levi is about to marry
Naomi. Naomi is expecting a baby. Will Marianna
marry Aaron and continue to live the Amish
life that she has always know? Or will Marianna
finally admit that she love Ben an englishman?
I loved this series. I hated to see it end.
5 stars!
This is the final book in the series.
It continues the story of Marianna Sommer’s
and her intended Aaron Zook. Marianna’s
heart still belongs to Ben an englishman
that she met in Montana. Even though
Marianna keeps pushing her feelings for
Ben aside. Believing that she and Aaron
are meant to be together. Aaron has built a home
for the two of them on his family’s property.
Yet something about Aaron keeps nagging at her.
Like he is hiding something from her.
Marianna’s brother Levi is about to marry
Naomi. Naomi is expecting a baby. Will Marianna
marry Aaron and continue to live the Amish
life that she has always know? Or will Marianna
finally admit that she love Ben an englishman?
I loved this series. I hated to see it end.
5 stars!
March 24, 2012
GENRE: AMISH/ROMANCE
PUBLISHER: B&H
PUBLICATION DATE: APRIL 01, 2012
RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 STARS – EXCELLENT
PROS: Satisfyingly wraps up the series; compelling sub-plots about secondary characters; continues the challenging spiritual thread from previous books
CONS: Novel has much a slower start than previous books in the series; most of the book takes place away from the series’ original setting of Montana
After living in Montana with her family for some time, Marianna Sommers has finally decided to return to her Amish community in Indiana and marry her childhood sweetheart, Aaron Zook. Ben Stone, the English man that she fell for in Montana, is pursuing his music career, a sure sign that they aren’t meant to be together. But even though Marianna always thought that returning to Indiana and marrying Aaron was the right thing to do, she can’t help but miss Montana and the friends and family that she left behind. Her every move is watched by her Amish neighbours in Indiana, who are convinced that she’s becoming too liberal and worldly in her time away. Worse, none of them understand the new connection she’s made with God. As Marianna helps her brother and his girlfriend prepare for their wedding and the birth of their first child, she wonders whether what is right for Levi might not be what is right for her. Is it really God’s plan for her to join the Amish community and marry Aaron, even if they aren’t as a close as Levi and Naomi? Haunted by her mother’s old romance with an Englisher, Marianna doesn’t want to bring similar hurt to her family by leaving the faith, even if it means having to hide her true beliefs. But is this truly what God wants for her life, or just what she feels obligated to do? Will the reappearance of Ben change her mind?
I only discovered Amish fiction a couple of years ago, but I quickly became a fan of this rapidly-expanding genre. Plenty of established Christian authors are starting to dip their toes into the waters of Amish fiction, including B. J. Hoff, Lori Copeland, Kathryn Cushman, Mindy Starns Clark and, as you can see, Tricia Goyer. I have to admit, I hadn’t read anything by Tricia Goyer before I picked up Beside Still Waters in 2011, but I was immediately sucked in by her compelling plots and challenging spiritual messages. Beyond Hope’s Valley was on my “must read” list for 2012. I’m pleased with how Tricia decided to end the series, although I’m holding on to the hope that she revisits Marianna in future books. This final instalment was almost impossible to put down in places, and I became quite emotionally invested in the lives of the characters. I got angry at the nosy women in Indiana for their judgemental attitudes, felt spiritually challenged alongside Marianna, cheered Ruth on when she stood up to a man from her past, and felt incredibly proud of Levi for stepping up into the role of husband and father that had been placed before him.
That said, I didn’t feel quite as wrapped up in the story and characters as I had in the previous two books. Beside Still Waters and Along Wooded Paths had totally blown me away and definitely made my list of top ten reads for 2011, so maybe I was setting myself up for a little disappointment. My qualms with this book are small, but I will voice them: I felt that the plot was a bit slow to get started, and a good twenty-percent of the book seemed to be spent setting up events that were to come. Having now finished the book, I kind of wish that that some of that space could have been shifted to the end of the book, so that we had more time to spend with Marianna and her chosen beau! The ending came quite quickly (and no, I’m not telling you who she chooses!) and as cheesy as I often find epilogues, I really wanted one this time! I also missed the Montana setting, since nearly the entire novel takes place in Indiana, or following Ben around on his tour. Tricia describes Montana so beautifully in the other books in the series and I hope that she chooses to set another series there as it made a great backdrop for these novels.
But what Beyond Hope’s Valley was lacking in terms of setting, it made up for in the development of secondary characters. I really felt that Tricia delved further into the emotions of Ruth, Marianna’s mother, and her brother, Levi. Whole passages of this novel are told from Ruth’s perspective, and while I was initially sceptical about what her point of view was going to add to the novel, the inclusion of Ruth’s experiences heightened my sense of the family dynamics and cleared up some underlying issues that I’d been mulling over throughout the series. Ever wondered what difficulties Marianna’s parents had before they moved to Montana? Or why Ruth wasn’t keen on Marianna’s friendship with Ben? Now you’ll find out. While Tricia doesn’t dwell on Levi’s perspective so much as she does with Ruth, it was encouraging to see how much he’d grown since the first book in the series, and the scenes between him, Naomi and their child were really touching. We’d been given a teaser that included Levi at the end of Along Wooded Paths and I can tell you that this scene was just as good this time around, and made Levi even more endearing to the reader. Maybe it’s been too long since I read the previous books in the series, but I honestly felt that Tricia had developed her secondary characters a lot more in this book. I’m looking forward to her next Amish series, and even if she doesn’t revisit these characters (although I kind of wish that Levi and Naomi would get their own book), the strength of her character development makes me hopeful for what’s to come.
Beyond Hope’s Valley is a satisfying conclusion to the Big Sky saga, and has the kind of ending that makes you sigh with relief and let out the breath you’ve been holding for the last couple of pages. Unlike some romantic series, I honestly didn’t know who Marianna was going to choose until I was almost at the end of the last book. I think that’s what makes this series so appealing; the characters change and develop so much over the course of the books that you can’t predict how the series will end. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed following Marianna on her journey to come closer to God and ultimately discover the man that she’s destined to be with. I’d like to think that I’ve grown along with her. The Big Sky series sticks out from the plethora of Amish novels in that it not challenges the readers’ perceptions of the Amish way of life, but it also challenges their own faith. Although Tricia likes to shake things up a bit by addressing certain conflicts within Amish theology, I can honestly say that I come out of these books not wondering whether the Amish are living their lives in a way that is pleasing to God, but whether I’m living my life appropriately. These aren’t books about pleasant young Amish women who like to bake and go on buggy rides with their beaus, but stories of real people struggling with the issues that we Englishers also have to deal with. There’s still romance in this book, but I’d be hard pressed to call this book predictable. If you’ve been intrigued by Amish fiction but you’ve been put off by the pastel coloured covers, this series would be a good place to start – but do begin with Beside Still Waters. This is not a series that can be read out of order, but Beyond Hope’s Valley is well worth the wait in getting there.
Review title provided by B&H.
PUBLISHER: B&H
PUBLICATION DATE: APRIL 01, 2012
RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 STARS – EXCELLENT
PROS: Satisfyingly wraps up the series; compelling sub-plots about secondary characters; continues the challenging spiritual thread from previous books
CONS: Novel has much a slower start than previous books in the series; most of the book takes place away from the series’ original setting of Montana
After living in Montana with her family for some time, Marianna Sommers has finally decided to return to her Amish community in Indiana and marry her childhood sweetheart, Aaron Zook. Ben Stone, the English man that she fell for in Montana, is pursuing his music career, a sure sign that they aren’t meant to be together. But even though Marianna always thought that returning to Indiana and marrying Aaron was the right thing to do, she can’t help but miss Montana and the friends and family that she left behind. Her every move is watched by her Amish neighbours in Indiana, who are convinced that she’s becoming too liberal and worldly in her time away. Worse, none of them understand the new connection she’s made with God. As Marianna helps her brother and his girlfriend prepare for their wedding and the birth of their first child, she wonders whether what is right for Levi might not be what is right for her. Is it really God’s plan for her to join the Amish community and marry Aaron, even if they aren’t as a close as Levi and Naomi? Haunted by her mother’s old romance with an Englisher, Marianna doesn’t want to bring similar hurt to her family by leaving the faith, even if it means having to hide her true beliefs. But is this truly what God wants for her life, or just what she feels obligated to do? Will the reappearance of Ben change her mind?
I only discovered Amish fiction a couple of years ago, but I quickly became a fan of this rapidly-expanding genre. Plenty of established Christian authors are starting to dip their toes into the waters of Amish fiction, including B. J. Hoff, Lori Copeland, Kathryn Cushman, Mindy Starns Clark and, as you can see, Tricia Goyer. I have to admit, I hadn’t read anything by Tricia Goyer before I picked up Beside Still Waters in 2011, but I was immediately sucked in by her compelling plots and challenging spiritual messages. Beyond Hope’s Valley was on my “must read” list for 2012. I’m pleased with how Tricia decided to end the series, although I’m holding on to the hope that she revisits Marianna in future books. This final instalment was almost impossible to put down in places, and I became quite emotionally invested in the lives of the characters. I got angry at the nosy women in Indiana for their judgemental attitudes, felt spiritually challenged alongside Marianna, cheered Ruth on when she stood up to a man from her past, and felt incredibly proud of Levi for stepping up into the role of husband and father that had been placed before him.
That said, I didn’t feel quite as wrapped up in the story and characters as I had in the previous two books. Beside Still Waters and Along Wooded Paths had totally blown me away and definitely made my list of top ten reads for 2011, so maybe I was setting myself up for a little disappointment. My qualms with this book are small, but I will voice them: I felt that the plot was a bit slow to get started, and a good twenty-percent of the book seemed to be spent setting up events that were to come. Having now finished the book, I kind of wish that that some of that space could have been shifted to the end of the book, so that we had more time to spend with Marianna and her chosen beau! The ending came quite quickly (and no, I’m not telling you who she chooses!) and as cheesy as I often find epilogues, I really wanted one this time! I also missed the Montana setting, since nearly the entire novel takes place in Indiana, or following Ben around on his tour. Tricia describes Montana so beautifully in the other books in the series and I hope that she chooses to set another series there as it made a great backdrop for these novels.
But what Beyond Hope’s Valley was lacking in terms of setting, it made up for in the development of secondary characters. I really felt that Tricia delved further into the emotions of Ruth, Marianna’s mother, and her brother, Levi. Whole passages of this novel are told from Ruth’s perspective, and while I was initially sceptical about what her point of view was going to add to the novel, the inclusion of Ruth’s experiences heightened my sense of the family dynamics and cleared up some underlying issues that I’d been mulling over throughout the series. Ever wondered what difficulties Marianna’s parents had before they moved to Montana? Or why Ruth wasn’t keen on Marianna’s friendship with Ben? Now you’ll find out. While Tricia doesn’t dwell on Levi’s perspective so much as she does with Ruth, it was encouraging to see how much he’d grown since the first book in the series, and the scenes between him, Naomi and their child were really touching. We’d been given a teaser that included Levi at the end of Along Wooded Paths and I can tell you that this scene was just as good this time around, and made Levi even more endearing to the reader. Maybe it’s been too long since I read the previous books in the series, but I honestly felt that Tricia had developed her secondary characters a lot more in this book. I’m looking forward to her next Amish series, and even if she doesn’t revisit these characters (although I kind of wish that Levi and Naomi would get their own book), the strength of her character development makes me hopeful for what’s to come.
Beyond Hope’s Valley is a satisfying conclusion to the Big Sky saga, and has the kind of ending that makes you sigh with relief and let out the breath you’ve been holding for the last couple of pages. Unlike some romantic series, I honestly didn’t know who Marianna was going to choose until I was almost at the end of the last book. I think that’s what makes this series so appealing; the characters change and develop so much over the course of the books that you can’t predict how the series will end. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed following Marianna on her journey to come closer to God and ultimately discover the man that she’s destined to be with. I’d like to think that I’ve grown along with her. The Big Sky series sticks out from the plethora of Amish novels in that it not challenges the readers’ perceptions of the Amish way of life, but it also challenges their own faith. Although Tricia likes to shake things up a bit by addressing certain conflicts within Amish theology, I can honestly say that I come out of these books not wondering whether the Amish are living their lives in a way that is pleasing to God, but whether I’m living my life appropriately. These aren’t books about pleasant young Amish women who like to bake and go on buggy rides with their beaus, but stories of real people struggling with the issues that we Englishers also have to deal with. There’s still romance in this book, but I’d be hard pressed to call this book predictable. If you’ve been intrigued by Amish fiction but you’ve been put off by the pastel coloured covers, this series would be a good place to start – but do begin with Beside Still Waters. This is not a series that can be read out of order, but Beyond Hope’s Valley is well worth the wait in getting there.
Review title provided by B&H.
May 3, 2012
This is book three and the final book of this series. The book starts with Marianna coming back to Indiana with her soon to be husband Aaron. She can’t wait to get back and settle in. She looks forward to welcoming her brother back into the fold as well as a new niece or nephew. But as she settles in with her new faith in Jesus she finds her community not as willing to listen to her beliefs and everyone is watching her closely. Also after seeing the house that Aaron build for her and spending time with him she starts to wonder if he really is the one and she finds herself thinking about Ben more then she wants to.
Meanwhile Ben is on tour for his hit song he wrote about Marianna but he finds himself not enjoying it as much the second time around and wishes he could go to Marianna and convincer her they belong together. We also get the final piece of the puzzle when it comes to Marianna’s mom and dad. Will a man from her moms past threaten to shatter the peace they had found in Montana?
I was excited to read the 3rd book and see who Marianna ended up with and was pretty satisfied with the outcome.
What I liked: For a final book in a series I was happy with how the book wrapped up and it did not feel like it was not finished. I liked how Marianna was strong in her faith and knew what she wanted. Even though the community in Indiana was not overly happy with her at times she stuck to what she believed. I also really enjoyed the spiritual message about her personal relationship with Christ I thought it was well written.
What I did not like: Like the other two books in the series the first half of the book seemed to drag for me. Once I got around 70% it started to pick up.
Over all I enjoyed this book. I was happy with the ending and glad to see everything resolved from the previous two books.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
Meanwhile Ben is on tour for his hit song he wrote about Marianna but he finds himself not enjoying it as much the second time around and wishes he could go to Marianna and convincer her they belong together. We also get the final piece of the puzzle when it comes to Marianna’s mom and dad. Will a man from her moms past threaten to shatter the peace they had found in Montana?
I was excited to read the 3rd book and see who Marianna ended up with and was pretty satisfied with the outcome.
What I liked: For a final book in a series I was happy with how the book wrapped up and it did not feel like it was not finished. I liked how Marianna was strong in her faith and knew what she wanted. Even though the community in Indiana was not overly happy with her at times she stuck to what she believed. I also really enjoyed the spiritual message about her personal relationship with Christ I thought it was well written.
What I did not like: Like the other two books in the series the first half of the book seemed to drag for me. Once I got around 70% it started to pick up.
Over all I enjoyed this book. I was happy with the ending and glad to see everything resolved from the previous two books.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
March 2, 2012
Marianna is headed back to Indiana to be with her brother and his future wife, and to marry Aaron. She has convinced herself that he is the man she is supposed to marry. He is a good man and follows the ways of their Amish community; he has built her a home and promises her love and affection.
Marianna has changed though since she has lived among the Amish in Montana. She has learned more about a personal relationship with Jesus and how freeing that is. She has also learned how to live among the Englisch. When she returns to Indiana she once again feels the burden of being watched by her neighbors. She wants to be a good wife to Aaron, but she also cannot deny her growing relationship with the Lord. Another thing she cannot deny is her longing for Montana and one particular person-Ben.
Ben has gone on tour with his music. He’s not happy about once again being thrust into stardom with all of its temptations. He also is longing for Marianna, the girl that he wrote his number one song about. All over the country people are hearing his song to her; it is the highlight of each concert he performs.
As Ben and Marianna are separated by many miles they both must learn to trust in the Lord more than they ever have before. Both must make life-changing decisions in order to follow what the Lord has revealed to each.
I really enjoyed this last installment of the Big Sky series. Marianna has such a sweet spirit. She desires only to follow the Lord and do His will, which sometimes goes against all of the rules of the Amish community she was brought up in. I admired her ability to be sweet and stand firm in her convictions.
Marianna has changed though since she has lived among the Amish in Montana. She has learned more about a personal relationship with Jesus and how freeing that is. She has also learned how to live among the Englisch. When she returns to Indiana she once again feels the burden of being watched by her neighbors. She wants to be a good wife to Aaron, but she also cannot deny her growing relationship with the Lord. Another thing she cannot deny is her longing for Montana and one particular person-Ben.
Ben has gone on tour with his music. He’s not happy about once again being thrust into stardom with all of its temptations. He also is longing for Marianna, the girl that he wrote his number one song about. All over the country people are hearing his song to her; it is the highlight of each concert he performs.
As Ben and Marianna are separated by many miles they both must learn to trust in the Lord more than they ever have before. Both must make life-changing decisions in order to follow what the Lord has revealed to each.
I really enjoyed this last installment of the Big Sky series. Marianna has such a sweet spirit. She desires only to follow the Lord and do His will, which sometimes goes against all of the rules of the Amish community she was brought up in. I admired her ability to be sweet and stand firm in her convictions.
May 3, 2012
Title: BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY
Author: Tricia Goyer
Publisher: Broadman & Holman
April 2012
ISBN: 978-1-5336-6870-8
Genre: Inspirational/Amish
Where does her heart belong?
Marianna Sommer returns to Shipshewana, Indiana, with her long-intended future husband, Aaron Zook, to help her brother Levi and his girlfriend prepare for a baby—and their wedding. She also needs to plan her own marriage to Aaron. But things are not as they seem. Levi is adamant the baby Naomi carries isn’t his, but he doesn’t know who the father is. And Aaron seems to have secrets, his personality becoming more like his disapproving mother’s.
Not to mention, Marianna isn’t entirely certain she’ll be able to forget the handsome English singer/songwriter who lived in a cabin in Montana, Ben. As Marianna struggles to find her footing in the stricter Amish community in Indiana, will she be able to give up past hurts and past loves and focus on the future? Or could the secrets that are carried by others impact Marianna’s decisions and where she truly belongs?
BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY is the third and final book in Ms. Goyer’s A Big Sky series. Readers will want to read these books from start to finish, Along Wooded Paths, Beside Still Waters, and BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY, as the stories all tie together.
The series wrapped up the way I wanted it to, in a way, which made me glad, but the story lacked the passion that Ms. Goyer has in her World War II novels. It is a very good Amish story, and very well told, and I enjoyed it much. BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY is a sweet ending to this series. Some recipes are included at the end of the book. $14.99. 390 pages.
Author: Tricia Goyer
Publisher: Broadman & Holman
April 2012
ISBN: 978-1-5336-6870-8
Genre: Inspirational/Amish
Where does her heart belong?
Marianna Sommer returns to Shipshewana, Indiana, with her long-intended future husband, Aaron Zook, to help her brother Levi and his girlfriend prepare for a baby—and their wedding. She also needs to plan her own marriage to Aaron. But things are not as they seem. Levi is adamant the baby Naomi carries isn’t his, but he doesn’t know who the father is. And Aaron seems to have secrets, his personality becoming more like his disapproving mother’s.
Not to mention, Marianna isn’t entirely certain she’ll be able to forget the handsome English singer/songwriter who lived in a cabin in Montana, Ben. As Marianna struggles to find her footing in the stricter Amish community in Indiana, will she be able to give up past hurts and past loves and focus on the future? Or could the secrets that are carried by others impact Marianna’s decisions and where she truly belongs?
BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY is the third and final book in Ms. Goyer’s A Big Sky series. Readers will want to read these books from start to finish, Along Wooded Paths, Beside Still Waters, and BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY, as the stories all tie together.
The series wrapped up the way I wanted it to, in a way, which made me glad, but the story lacked the passion that Ms. Goyer has in her World War II novels. It is a very good Amish story, and very well told, and I enjoyed it much. BEYOND HOPE’S VALLEY is a sweet ending to this series. Some recipes are included at the end of the book. $14.99. 390 pages.
May 3, 2012
This novel begins where book two in this series left off, with Marianna on a train with her future husband Aaron Zook. They have just left Montana and are headed for their childhood hometown of Shipshewana, Indiana where Aaron has built them a new home. Before they marry Marianna has promised to help her brother Levi and his future wife Naomi prepare for the unexpected birth of their baby. Naomi's parents have asked they wait to marry until after the baby is born. So Aaron will get to court Marianna properly before they set a date for their own wedding.
I can't help but use the old saying that this little Amish community has turned into a regular Peyton Place. The town folk seem to know everyone's family secrets, even some secrets that folks don't even know about their own relatives. Even though the Amish do not approve of gossiping, things sure do get spread from house to house like a wildfire.
So many secrets, temptations and past guilt are alive and abundant in this novel. But so is Love. Love and Faith in God's will and a new desire to read God's Word from the English Bible. Also praying and talking to God which created a personal relationship between God and themselves.
This book was definitely the icing on the cake, as some say. I couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure:
I received a free copy of this book from B & H Publishing Group for review. I was in no way compensated for this review it is my own opinion.
I can't help but use the old saying that this little Amish community has turned into a regular Peyton Place. The town folk seem to know everyone's family secrets, even some secrets that folks don't even know about their own relatives. Even though the Amish do not approve of gossiping, things sure do get spread from house to house like a wildfire.
So many secrets, temptations and past guilt are alive and abundant in this novel. But so is Love. Love and Faith in God's will and a new desire to read God's Word from the English Bible. Also praying and talking to God which created a personal relationship between God and themselves.
This book was definitely the icing on the cake, as some say. I couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure:
I received a free copy of this book from B & H Publishing Group for review. I was in no way compensated for this review it is my own opinion.
December 6, 2012
HOO HOO HOO! I am so excited to share the third novel in the Big Sky Series by Tricia Goyer! I've already shared with you Beside Still Waters and Along Wooded Paths. The latest offering in the series is Beyond Hope's Valley. If you haven't read the previous two, you can read the final as a stand alone, but I truly recommend reading the entire series so you get a good feel of the characters. Marianna develops so much from book to book. Her life takes on so many changes.
I have grown to love the character of Marianna. In the first novel, I was aggravated because she followed her family even when she didn't want to. Even though Tricia shows this side of the Amish that most of us are familiar with, she also shows us their vulnerable side. She shows that they are human just like we are and that they make mistakes the same as everyone else. Marianna discovers some big secrets in Beyond Hope's Valley. She has to finally choose which of the two men she really loves and decide what her future is going to be. This is another reason I recommend you read the first two novels. You will learn a lot about her and her family and what makes them all the way they are.The big Sky Series is my absolute favorite Amish series, if not my favorite all around series! (I'm sort of hung up on Vampires. Big differences I know.) But if I had to really choose, Big Sky would most likely be my favorite!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of Beside Still Waters as a member of LitFuse blog tours. All opinions are my own.
I have grown to love the character of Marianna. In the first novel, I was aggravated because she followed her family even when she didn't want to. Even though Tricia shows this side of the Amish that most of us are familiar with, she also shows us their vulnerable side. She shows that they are human just like we are and that they make mistakes the same as everyone else. Marianna discovers some big secrets in Beyond Hope's Valley. She has to finally choose which of the two men she really loves and decide what her future is going to be. This is another reason I recommend you read the first two novels. You will learn a lot about her and her family and what makes them all the way they are.The big Sky Series is my absolute favorite Amish series, if not my favorite all around series! (I'm sort of hung up on Vampires. Big differences I know.) But if I had to really choose, Big Sky would most likely be my favorite!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of Beside Still Waters as a member of LitFuse blog tours. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2012
I have so enjoyed my visit with Sommer family and have loved Marianne, and her sweet giving personality.
We begin this book on our way back to where we started in Indiana. You will wonder if Marianne is about to finally wed Aaron Zook, a wedding she has planned in her mind forever. We also wonder about her feelings for Ben...if we all could look ahead down the future road. I love the reliance on God!
We have been following these beloved characters through three books and this one being the final. I hate to say goodbye, you will have to read through a lot of heartache, and love.
Although you can read this book alone, I wouldn't miss reading Beside Still Waters and Along Wooded Paths you will "Love" them.
Be ready for a great conclusion to this wonderful series, and wish I could have more visits. Enjoy!!
I received this book through Litfuse Book Tours, and the Publisher B & H Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
We begin this book on our way back to where we started in Indiana. You will wonder if Marianne is about to finally wed Aaron Zook, a wedding she has planned in her mind forever. We also wonder about her feelings for Ben...if we all could look ahead down the future road. I love the reliance on God!
We have been following these beloved characters through three books and this one being the final. I hate to say goodbye, you will have to read through a lot of heartache, and love.
Although you can read this book alone, I wouldn't miss reading Beside Still Waters and Along Wooded Paths you will "Love" them.
Be ready for a great conclusion to this wonderful series, and wish I could have more visits. Enjoy!!
I received this book through Litfuse Book Tours, and the Publisher B & H Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 23, 2012
Tricia Goyer has been a favorite author for me since I read her first book months ago. I love Amish fictions too, so take makes this book and this series even better! You can read the book blurb to see what the book is about! And as far as the writing and characters, they are so unique and very real life. I really appreciate how Tricia writes the Bible and how to live by its principles throughout her books, and they are certainally not preachy. It’s just every day life. I have enjoyed Marianna throughout the entire series, seeing the changes in her life, the way she can freely have a relationship with Jesus like it is suppose to be.
I can’t say enough about “Beyond Hope’s Valley” or the other two books in the series. I would encourage you to run and grab a copy of this awesome book, and if you haven’t read the first two in the series, you are missing a real treat.
I can’t say enough about “Beyond Hope’s Valley” or the other two books in the series. I would encourage you to run and grab a copy of this awesome book, and if you haven’t read the first two in the series, you are missing a real treat.
January 3, 2012
I adored this series, and was super excited to win an ARC of this book. Have you ever read a book/series where you felt like you made friends while reading...that is how I felt reading this series. I would HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone that loves to read about the Amish communities. Tricia has a wonderful way of absorbing you into her writing.
February 15, 2019
I have loved the story of this series, but the editing in this book was awful! Hardly a page went by that I didn't have to reread a sentence or shake my head or even laugh at a misplaced word or some other mistake.
October 24, 2016
Last of the Big Sky Novels. Whew. Good.
Marianna finally decides who she will go with. She finally made the right choice. I wasn't overly fond of the other guy, and when you see what he did, all I can say is all her indecision finally paid off.
Marianna finally decides who she will go with. She finally made the right choice. I wasn't overly fond of the other guy, and when you see what he did, all I can say is all her indecision finally paid off.
October 25, 2022
This book concludes the “love triangle” between Marianna, Aaron, the Amish man she plans to marry, and Ben, the Englisher/singer/songwriter/driver that is in love with her.
Marianna is back in Indiana. She’s helping her soon to be sister-in-law, Naomi, with her pregnancy. Levi, Marianna’s brother, has returned to the Amish, and even though he is not the biological father of Naomi’s baby, he wants to marry Naomi and raise the baby as his own.
Marianna doesn’t seem to fit in back in her old town and community. The Amish in Indiana are more strict than in Montana. Reading an English Bible is forbidden, even talking openly about God. Marianna also keeps having second thoughts about Aaron. She keeps thinking about Ben.
Ben in the meantime is on tour. His song about Marianna is a hit. He’s not happy though. He doesn’t like this lifestyle and writes letters to Marianna but doesn’t send them. His letters to troubled alcoholic teens never get sent either, which is part of his parole from a friend’s alcohol related death years ago. Ben is arrested and his tour abruptly comes to an end. So he does what he would rather do. He drives Marianna’s parents and siblings from Montana to Indiana for Levi and Naomi’s wedding. Ben and Marianna reunite. When Marianna finds out Aaron is the father of Naomi’s baby, her prayers are answered. She breaks up with Aaron. With her parents’ blessing, she can marry Ben. She may not be a part of the Amish for much longer, but she will be with Ben and back in Montana, where God wants her to be.
Marianna is back in Indiana. She’s helping her soon to be sister-in-law, Naomi, with her pregnancy. Levi, Marianna’s brother, has returned to the Amish, and even though he is not the biological father of Naomi’s baby, he wants to marry Naomi and raise the baby as his own.
Marianna doesn’t seem to fit in back in her old town and community. The Amish in Indiana are more strict than in Montana. Reading an English Bible is forbidden, even talking openly about God. Marianna also keeps having second thoughts about Aaron. She keeps thinking about Ben.
Ben in the meantime is on tour. His song about Marianna is a hit. He’s not happy though. He doesn’t like this lifestyle and writes letters to Marianna but doesn’t send them. His letters to troubled alcoholic teens never get sent either, which is part of his parole from a friend’s alcohol related death years ago. Ben is arrested and his tour abruptly comes to an end. So he does what he would rather do. He drives Marianna’s parents and siblings from Montana to Indiana for Levi and Naomi’s wedding. Ben and Marianna reunite. When Marianna finds out Aaron is the father of Naomi’s baby, her prayers are answered. She breaks up with Aaron. With her parents’ blessing, she can marry Ben. She may not be a part of the Amish for much longer, but she will be with Ben and back in Montana, where God wants her to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2021
I enjoyed this novel, and am thankful for a delightful wrapping up of the trilogy. I had to dock the star count because:
- errors were frustratingly plenteous
- characters were not consistent to their usual actions, etc (Rebecca, esp at the end; Aaron; Ben, at times)
- the ending was a little too “wrapped up” with a ribbon - characters who should have waited to be approached about something instead did the approaching, everyone was so perfectly happy, we didn’t see the unhappiness of those who must be upset by the final bits of the story, etc. Perhaps the author needed to finish, had a page limit, I don’t know but it just didn’t quite flow at the end.
Those are the biggies. I was also frustrated by the language; I felt Marianna and sometimes other Amish characters too often spoke or wrote in ways that they would never have phrased things; I much prefer of your going to throw in some “ja” and “gut” that other phraseology would also be more accurate.
I’m being picky, I really am. Overall I very much enjoyed this novel! I read this and the 2nd of the trilogy in about 48 hours, mostly over a getaway. I can’t read stuff I don’t enjoy nearly that quickly 😜 and it simply pulled me through. I didn’t want to put it down! That said, I have high standards, and it just didn’t quite get to where I thought it should have been.
- errors were frustratingly plenteous
- characters were not consistent to their usual actions, etc (Rebecca, esp at the end; Aaron; Ben, at times)
- the ending was a little too “wrapped up” with a ribbon - characters who should have waited to be approached about something instead did the approaching, everyone was so perfectly happy, we didn’t see the unhappiness of those who must be upset by the final bits of the story, etc. Perhaps the author needed to finish, had a page limit, I don’t know but it just didn’t quite flow at the end.
Those are the biggies. I was also frustrated by the language; I felt Marianna and sometimes other Amish characters too often spoke or wrote in ways that they would never have phrased things; I much prefer of your going to throw in some “ja” and “gut” that other phraseology would also be more accurate.
I’m being picky, I really am. Overall I very much enjoyed this novel! I read this and the 2nd of the trilogy in about 48 hours, mostly over a getaway. I can’t read stuff I don’t enjoy nearly that quickly 😜 and it simply pulled me through. I didn’t want to put it down! That said, I have high standards, and it just didn’t quite get to where I thought it should have been.
January 1, 2017
I will admit that immediately upon picking up this book, I flipped to the end to see how everything resolved. I will say nothing more than the fact that I was quite pleased.
I absolutely loved how Goyer really delved into the issues. I wish she had done more of that or lingered a little longer in some areas, like after Marianna speaks up at the quilting circle and "confronts" the bishop's wife. At times, and this is one of the reasons that I gave the book 4 stars instead of 5, it feels like Goyer attempted to deal with the big issues like sticking one toe in the water but when discovering its frigidity pulling out and running away leaving the issue unresolved. This happened a few times in the novel.
One other thing that almost put me off reading these books was the covers. Whoever chose the cover art should be fired. These are the kind of covers that used to grace Christian fiction in the late 90s early 2000s. I liked those books then but now I know much better and almost didn't read these books fearing that I would find more of the same.
I still highly enjoyed this book and have added the entire series to my Amazon wishlist. This is one book series I would like to own.
I absolutely loved how Goyer really delved into the issues. I wish she had done more of that or lingered a little longer in some areas, like after Marianna speaks up at the quilting circle and "confronts" the bishop's wife. At times, and this is one of the reasons that I gave the book 4 stars instead of 5, it feels like Goyer attempted to deal with the big issues like sticking one toe in the water but when discovering its frigidity pulling out and running away leaving the issue unresolved. This happened a few times in the novel.
One other thing that almost put me off reading these books was the covers. Whoever chose the cover art should be fired. These are the kind of covers that used to grace Christian fiction in the late 90s early 2000s. I liked those books then but now I know much better and almost didn't read these books fearing that I would find more of the same.
I still highly enjoyed this book and have added the entire series to my Amazon wishlist. This is one book series I would like to own.
September 18, 2023
Beyond Hope’s Valley
The final book in the Big Sky series. And, again, Tricia wrote a fabulous book. Marianna moved back to Indiana to marry Aaron Zook and be there for her older brother and his wife as they are expecting. Naomi is having this baby out of wedlock, which Marianna said isn’t uncommon in the Amish communities. That’s not at all what I would have thought.
Marianna moves in with her Aunt and there she tries to settle in to her “new” life. She misses Montana, her family, and the relationships with the English and Amish that she made. There were times in town in Indiana she finds herself talking to an Englischer, only to be stared at or pulled away.
As she listens to Jesus, she wonders if marrying Aaron is what she really wants.
I like how we got to see what Ben was up to (on tour singing), Marianna in Indiana, and her family in Montana.
This was a wonderful book!
The final book in the Big Sky series. And, again, Tricia wrote a fabulous book. Marianna moved back to Indiana to marry Aaron Zook and be there for her older brother and his wife as they are expecting. Naomi is having this baby out of wedlock, which Marianna said isn’t uncommon in the Amish communities. That’s not at all what I would have thought.
Marianna moves in with her Aunt and there she tries to settle in to her “new” life. She misses Montana, her family, and the relationships with the English and Amish that she made. There were times in town in Indiana she finds herself talking to an Englischer, only to be stared at or pulled away.
As she listens to Jesus, she wonders if marrying Aaron is what she really wants.
I like how we got to see what Ben was up to (on tour singing), Marianna in Indiana, and her family in Montana.
This was a wonderful book!
September 13, 2018
Conclusion
Beyond Hope's Valley really takes the reader to the mountain tops to the valley, and finally back to the mountaintop. The writer has a lot of territory to cover, as Marianna chooses to go back to Indiana to marry Aaron (with me telling her "he ain't no good for you, girl!") Ben pursues his singing career then gets blown out of the water. Naomi has a baby then marries Levi. Ruth & Abe decide to move permanently to Montana. And Mariana sees the light, finally. Excellent conclusion to the series. God's love and direction for the whole family is portrayed without being preachy. I recommend the series, but you will be confused if you read them out of order.
Beyond Hope's Valley really takes the reader to the mountain tops to the valley, and finally back to the mountaintop. The writer has a lot of territory to cover, as Marianna chooses to go back to Indiana to marry Aaron (with me telling her "he ain't no good for you, girl!") Ben pursues his singing career then gets blown out of the water. Naomi has a baby then marries Levi. Ruth & Abe decide to move permanently to Montana. And Mariana sees the light, finally. Excellent conclusion to the series. God's love and direction for the whole family is portrayed without being preachy. I recommend the series, but you will be confused if you read them out of order.
January 8, 2021
Big Sky—Big Heart
This is the third book of the Big Sky Novels, and although I’ve read all three, this is my favorite. Marianna’s journey of faith and love makes for a an enlightening read. I appreciate the words of the author in the afterword: My hope is that as you read Beyond Hope’s Valley you’ll be inspired to seek God about every detail of your life—and share your journey with good friends—just as Marianna did. There are many times we think we know God’s will for our lives, but sometimes we are surprised. In my own personal relationship with Jesus Christ I’ve discovered that His way is always best . . . and He has greater plans for me than I ever imagined!
This is the third book of the Big Sky Novels, and although I’ve read all three, this is my favorite. Marianna’s journey of faith and love makes for a an enlightening read. I appreciate the words of the author in the afterword: My hope is that as you read Beyond Hope’s Valley you’ll be inspired to seek God about every detail of your life—and share your journey with good friends—just as Marianna did. There are many times we think we know God’s will for our lives, but sometimes we are surprised. In my own personal relationship with Jesus Christ I’ve discovered that His way is always best . . . and He has greater plans for me than I ever imagined!
January 8, 2021
Wonderful
This is the concluding book in the series, A Big Sky. I’ve enjoyed this series so much, the romance, the hard decisions, the twist and turns in the plot, and the development of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. God is a big God, He loves us so much and tenderly draws us to Himself to reveal Himself to us. He gives us the Word of God to teach us, to comfort us, to show us stories of His greatness, His power, His mercy and grace and His plan of salvation for us. Marianna learned much about the God who loved her and had a plan for her life. This was a wonderfully written series of books.
This is the concluding book in the series, A Big Sky. I’ve enjoyed this series so much, the romance, the hard decisions, the twist and turns in the plot, and the development of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. God is a big God, He loves us so much and tenderly draws us to Himself to reveal Himself to us. He gives us the Word of God to teach us, to comfort us, to show us stories of His greatness, His power, His mercy and grace and His plan of salvation for us. Marianna learned much about the God who loved her and had a plan for her life. This was a wonderfully written series of books.
Read
June 29, 2024This novel brings the questions and dilemmas that have been facing Marianna, Aaron, and Ben to a close. Though I had a feeling what would happen I was still wondering till about half way through the novel. Through this series I’ve loved how it’s portrayed the Amish and the “Englisch” faith and the differences and similarities and how it all relates to a personal relationship with Christ. Through the series, and in this book especially, I appreciated the deep levels of the storyline that portrayed the consequences and sacrifice required when foolish mistakes are made. I’d happily recommend the series to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction!
November 11, 2025
A Walk With God
I found the first book of this series in a thrift store while on vacation. I did not realize it was part of a 3 book series. I started reading the first book Saturday evening. I was intrigued with the conflicts between the ways of the Amish and the English. The best part of this series is the truth in Gods words. He wants to be a part of our daily lives and feel His love and care for us. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. I highly recommend this author. The stories are well written. The characters and conflicts are real. I think God wanted me to find that first book and help me realize my own walk with Him could be deeper and richer.
I found the first book of this series in a thrift store while on vacation. I did not realize it was part of a 3 book series. I started reading the first book Saturday evening. I was intrigued with the conflicts between the ways of the Amish and the English. The best part of this series is the truth in Gods words. He wants to be a part of our daily lives and feel His love and care for us. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. I highly recommend this author. The stories are well written. The characters and conflicts are real. I think God wanted me to find that first book and help me realize my own walk with Him could be deeper and richer.
June 1, 2017
This final book in the trilogy took a few turns I wasn't expecting. However, by the middle of the book, I was actually hoping for those turns. Marianna had some difficult choices to make after discovering a couple secrets - one from her mother's past and one from her fiance. Through the story line, the author showed how life often doesn't work out the way we planned; but if we trust God, it will always work out according to His plan.
I enjoyed this author's series so much, I am going to read her next series that is connected by a few threads to this one.
I enjoyed this author's series so much, I am going to read her next series that is connected by a few threads to this one.
August 13, 2019
God is Faithful
I read the first book in this series. It was incredible. I immediately downloaded the 2nd one and read it. There was no question i would download the 3rd in the series. What an incredible journey this series takes. When we are taken out of our comfort zone and forced to analyze one's life, suddenly the things we always did because that's what we are don't always make sense. It's when we go outside our comfort zone that God can get out attention and speak to us in ways we never imagined. This series has made me see God in a different light. Thank you, Tricia!
I read the first book in this series. It was incredible. I immediately downloaded the 2nd one and read it. There was no question i would download the 3rd in the series. What an incredible journey this series takes. When we are taken out of our comfort zone and forced to analyze one's life, suddenly the things we always did because that's what we are don't always make sense. It's when we go outside our comfort zone that God can get out attention and speak to us in ways we never imagined. This series has made me see God in a different light. Thank you, Tricia!
January 11, 2020
Great story filled with Love, Heartbreak and The Most Love of All,,, The Love of Jesus!
It was so interesting and refreshing to read this series!
As the story unfolds, It keeps the readers interest, it keeps the readers heart involved.
Mariana thinks she has her future all figured out and what God wants for her until family matters cause a huge change in her life. She is resentful of this change, not knowing that God has a plan for her. A plan that is greater than she could have ever imagined. However she must go through trials and growth to realize it!
It was so interesting and refreshing to read this series!
As the story unfolds, It keeps the readers interest, it keeps the readers heart involved.
Mariana thinks she has her future all figured out and what God wants for her until family matters cause a huge change in her life. She is resentful of this change, not knowing that God has a plan for her. A plan that is greater than she could have ever imagined. However she must go through trials and growth to realize it!
October 25, 2019
A lovely heartwarming story
I choose this rating because it is a truly well written story from the beginning of the first book in the series to the end of this one. It brings the Amish community to life but the whole emphasis on getting to know our Lord in a more personal way is lovely.
Anyone can read this series,it uplifts the saved and speaks to the unsaved.
Keep writing Tricia, you're an inspiration,,
Thank you
I choose this rating because it is a truly well written story from the beginning of the first book in the series to the end of this one. It brings the Amish community to life but the whole emphasis on getting to know our Lord in a more personal way is lovely.
Anyone can read this series,it uplifts the saved and speaks to the unsaved.
Keep writing Tricia, you're an inspiration,,
Thank you
January 9, 2022
Marianna returns with Aaron to the Indiana Amish community where she grew up. She is thrilled her brother Levi is returning to the Amish community. She wants to help him & Naomi establish their home with the baby Naomi will have soon. She is also ready to marry Aaron. But there are many surprises for her. She also realizes she is not accepted by the community. I very much enjoyed this conclusion to the series.
January 11, 2025
This is probably my favorite of the trilogy, as Marianna and her parents learn more of God and how people can look good on the outside but not really love God inwardly. The romance, while sweet, puts in a few too many caresses, in my opinion. The story is slower to start but ends in a more riveting way. Characters are well thought out. There are a few typos throughout, but nothing too distracting.
March 13, 2017
A Satisfying and Compelling Read.
A satisfyingly ending to the series. The descriptions of the area of the country were detailed and brought out mental images of the places. The author used the illustration of the tea cup to get across the idea that our dreams may not be what they seam nor be what we need. Following Jesus is what is important.
A satisfyingly ending to the series. The descriptions of the area of the country were detailed and brought out mental images of the places. The author used the illustration of the tea cup to get across the idea that our dreams may not be what they seam nor be what we need. Following Jesus is what is important.
September 8, 2018
Follow your head or your heart?
I enjoyed reading the three big sky novels about the Amish. When Marianna returned with Aaron to Indiana she has many unanswered questions before she will fully commit to marry him. Why can't she forget about Ben in Montana ? What will the Amish community think of she doesn't marry Aaron?
I enjoyed reading the three big sky novels about the Amish. When Marianna returned with Aaron to Indiana she has many unanswered questions before she will fully commit to marry him. Why can't she forget about Ben in Montana ? What will the Amish community think of she doesn't marry Aaron?
October 2, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. Several twists and turns in this sweet, Christian romance story. Tricia Goyer writes many biblical passages in her books, relating them to her characters, sharing their love of our Lord.
This was the third Tricia Goyer book I've read and I will be reading more. I highly recommend this author.
This was the third Tricia Goyer book I've read and I will be reading more. I highly recommend this author.
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