The Restoration

Prairie State Friends #3

by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Book 3 in the Prairie State Friends trilogy!
Jealousy in Amish Country Has Terrible Consequences   

Dive into an Amish country love triangle in this third book of the Prairie State Friends series. Priscilla Herschberger finds herself pursued by Elam, a childhood friend from her community, and David, an outsider raised in the modern world. Elam would do almost anything to convince Priscilla that David would never fit into the Amish way. Will flames of jealousy rage out of control and ruin lives? Can forgiveness allow love and trust to grow? 

Don't Skip Book 1 and 2!

Book 1- The Decision
Book 2- The Gift

Genres: Amish, Christian Fiction, Romance, Amish Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Inspirational

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published February 1, 2016

About the author

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE RESTORATION has many twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages, Each twist kept me wondering what might happen next. There were a few story lines going on within the story and Wanda Brunstetter blends them together perfectly, providing a wonderful story that certainly leaves this reader satisfied with the ending of The Prairie State Friends series.
Fans of Amish fiction will devour THE RESTORATION. I am sad that this series is ending but I'm very happy Wanda wrapped up all of the characters stories. Wanda Brunstetter has always been one of my favorite authors in the Amish genre because her work always provides inspirational messages while also providing real life issues that happen to take place in an Amish setting.

[Arlena · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Thoughts...

This was another Amish series of the 'Prairie State of Friends #3' that continues on from this author's last novel...'The Gift.' To really get the full understanding of what all has gone on in earlier series, I would suggest you read the other two series. Now with this series we find this author deals with Priscilla, Elam and David as the main characters. Then you will have a lots of secondary characters Cora, Jared, Adam, Elaine, Ben, Jonah to many others from the earlier series that will blend in as questions will be answered in this story. I found these characters well defined, developed, portrayed and oh so believable giving the readers a good read that will keep your attention. It seems that there are two young men wanting Priscilla's attention. How will she handle all of this? "Will flames of jealousy rage out of control and ruin lives? Can forgiveness allow love and trust to grow? " To get these answers and so much more the reader will have to pick up "The Restoration" to find out!

I thought this author gives the readers one interesting Amish read that will bring in many other characters [from earlier series] that will make this story very intriguing and well written. Be ready for some inspirational verses that will be presented that will speak to your heart and also such details [in the story] that makes the story flow so very well as one reads chapter to chapter. I did feel that toward the end the story seemed somewhat rushed a little but I know all good reads must come to a end. I did like as always this author adding at the end of the story a recipe that was talked about during the read [Priscilla's Friendship Salad] along with some good discussion questions that will give the readers something to think about long after the read.

I received a free copy of this book through NOR from NetGalley, in return for an honest review.

[Rhonda]

Don't you love when reading a book feels like coming home? That's how this book made me feel. I kept remembering portions of the previous books in the Prairie State Friends' series and it just felt like they were all family to me. Priscilla has two young eligible bachelors vying for her attentions and her heart. But jealousy gets in the way and causes great pain for all of them. Can love ever be restored through forgiveness? Priscilla's friends, Elaine and Leah both have many exciting changes and challenges occuring in their lives as well. Priscilla helps Elaine serve Amish dinners in her home to tourists and both Priscilla and Elaine would love to have a husband and family like their friend Leah. Leah continues practicing reflexology in her home and caring for her husband and his three nieces whom they are raising after the death of Adam's sister and brother-in-law. Adam's mother, Cora, wants desperately to repair the past and make amends with him and be a true grandmother to the three nieces but Adam's heart is hardened and forgiveness seems hard to attain.
Readers will thrill at seeing how these and other issues are resolving for the Prairie State Friends. I couldn't wait to get back to my reading of this book tonight after caring for my elderly mom for the day. I also want to share the joy of this book by offering a giveaway of the print copy I received from the publisher.
I rate this book 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.
I received a print version of this book from the publisher and a pdf version of it from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Restoration is the final book in the Prairie State Friends series and I am sad to leave these dear friends behind, but I love getting to the end of stories, even if it isn’t the way I wanted it to end.
Our three friends are back, Priscilla, Leah, and Elaine, and yes they always seem to be there for each other. Leah is now married to Adam and you will love their relationship with the girls, but there is now a new person in their lives, and we don’t know how this is going to end with so much bitterness.
Elaine is in a new relationship with Ben, and he has proposed, will she accept and fulfill her dreams of having a family of her own. The same with Priscilla will Elam ever ask her to marry him? Or will the new guy in town fulfill his dreams and win Priscilla, this is going to be a rock road, and you wonder who will get hurt, and you are surly going to be surprised in the end.
Such a good and fast read, almost two fast, but I had to find out, but then the final page was turned and of course, I wanted more. Enjoy!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Shiloh Run Press and was not required to give a positive review

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opening up a Wanda Brunstetter book is like pulling on an old comfy sweater. You can sink down into the coziness of the story and surround yourself with a thoroughly good read. The Restoration was just such a read that I found myself reading the entire book in a day.

I found myself being pulled into the story from the first page. It was nice returning to Arthur, Illinois and catching up on the lives of characters I had begun to think of as friends and neighbors. New characters are introduced and we are able to get to know existing characters better. Wanda has brought the characters to life and made them completely believable and relatable.

There are several storylines going on in this book with the main story being a love triangle including an Amish couple and their Englisher friend. I enjoyed this storyline and the others as it brought to light the fact that the Amish are not really all that different from the rest of the world. They have problems and dilemmas just like everyone else.

Fans of Amish fiction are sure to love this book. New readers of the genre will enjoy the book as well. Even though it is the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading the two previous books first then this one so you will be more familiar with all the characters and their stories. However, if you can't wait to read this one then go ahead. You won't be lost as there is enough backstory provided.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and her publisher in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third in the Prairie State Friends series, The Restoration is the culmination of the relationships and activities from the previous books in this series. Complications arise from all sides in this unpredictable novel. Things aren't always as they seem, and deception is no basis for a relationship. Friendships are a very strong element in this novel.

Characters are diverse, some very dear and a few who typically cause trouble that can be costly to others. Family plays an important role, and support is an important aspect throughout this book. Events from the past are revealed through challenges where the truth could affect a number of individuals. This author weaves a strong story together using relationships and situations that could lead in any direction.

I enjoyed this series as much as I've enjoyed other series written by Wanda E. Brunstetter. She has a strong history and knowledge of the Amish, and her wisdom is evidenced by the traditions she represents in her novels. If you love Amish fiction, this is a wonderful and sensitive series that I highly recommend. Happy Reading!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

[Larisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good story, just not the great one I've come to expect from Brunstetter. This 3rd book in her series was slower moving than some of her others.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

listened to on youtube
love to read the amish books and like Wanda E Brunstetter books she is one of my favorite amish writers

[Keren Herrera-Lyles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy every book from Mrs. Wanda. This book is the third and final in the series of The Prairie State Friends. Priscilla, Leah and Elaine are best of friends and is nice to see how they are always there for each other no matter what.

This is the story of Priscilla who has been patiently waiting for her boyfriend Elam to ask her to marry him. But seeing that all her friends are getting more serious in their relationship she finds a special friendship in her English friend David. When Elam sees all the attention she is giving the English friend and vice versa he decides to put a stop with it. But with that happening, an accident happens that puts them even more distant than before.

Priscilla finds out the truth and thinks she belongs with David. While Elam tries to clear and confess things, Priscilla comes to realize that she still cares for Elam.

Leah, I was happy to see her still enjoying and practicing Reflexology. And now she and Adam are having a small family of their own. Adam seems more down to earth now then in the second book. He truly got on my nerves on that book. Now I liked him.

Elaine and Jonah are the other couple. That sadly something awful happens and they are able to come together and reunite and have their own little family as well.


This story had three couples and yet it felt just if you were listening to a friend speak. The characters were sweet, some need a shake at one time or another but it makes you appreciate who you have and that you shouldn't let things go by without saying how you feel. You might not get another chance.

[Anne Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This last book in the series focused on Priscilla and the man she’s been courting for quite some time, Elam. Elam wants to propose to Priscilla, but he wants to get his financial situation in order first. He gets another job for extra money, but this causes him not to be able to see Priscilla as much. In the meantime, Priscilla has been seeing David Morgan, an Englisher, quite a bit because he had a motorcycle accident and is staying at his grandparents. David has decided he wants to become Amish. He feels he’s fallen in love with Priscilla and wants to show her he’s better for her than Elam. But when a fire starts from a stove that has been left on, Priscilla gets badly burned. When it becomes clear that Elam, not David,left the burner on, Priscilla must forgive Elam. She realizes she was infatuated with David, who decides not to become Amish and goes back to veterinary school.
Jonah is still grieving the loss of his wife, Sara. Thankfully his parents have been helping him take care of his children, Mark, Sara’s son, and Martha Jean, their baby. Jonah feels he’ll never get married again. But when Elaine finally tells him the truth at the right time that she always loved him, these two will get married.
Leah and Adam are happily married. Leah has a baby to add to their three nieces. Adam’s mother, Cora, is welcomed, along with her son, Jared, into the family. Cora and Jared move into a house of their own.
Random thoughts: Why did Cleo the dog have to die!?
Priscilla has a mirror? Are Amish allowed to have mirrors?

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Restoration by Wanda Brunstetter is the third and final book in the Prairie State Friends trilogy. This story features Priscilla and her boyfriend Elam. Priscilla and Elam have been a couple for a long while and Priscilla very much hopes that Elam will propose soon so they can continue their lives and raise a family together. But Elam has been slow in the asking, causing Priscilla some worry and leading her to pray for understanding and patience. When the couple’s English friend David Morgan comes to live with his grandparents in the local area, he is dealing with some of his own life worries. David thinks he might like to become Amish and begins heading down that path. But is it the right thing for him to do? While Elam doesn’t mind David’s company at first, he finds himself upset with the attention David is giving to Priscilla. As Elam comes to ask Priscilla to be his bride, an accident happens and Priscilla must deal with the outcome for her personally. The accident is muddled with uncertainty as to its root cause, and Priscilla must decide where her heart is leading her. Which young man is the one for her and what is the truth behind the accident? This story keeps your attention as you learn about the very relatable characters and hope for all of them to find their true place in life. As a story of forgiveness, patience, and leaning to the Lord for understanding, the resolution of this trilogy is so satisfying. Definitely a joy to read!

[Patricia Bond · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE RESTORATION ( PRAIRIE STATE FRIENDS , #3) WANDA BRUNSTETTER

The Restoration is the final book in Wanda Brunstetter's Prairie State Friends series. The first and second books are The Decision and The Gift.

In The Restoration we find Priscilla Herschberger in a love triangle between her longtime beau, Elam Gingerich and David Morgan, an Englischer.
Priscilla has been waiting forever, it seems, for Elam to propose marriage to her. When David comes to Arthur to visit his grandparents, Priscilla finds herself attracted to David, and David likewise to Priscilla.
David decides he wants to become Amish, instead of returning to college to study to become a vet, so that he can court Priscilla.
What will it take for Elam to finally propose to Priscilla. Will it take a near tragedy and who will Priscilla finally choose - Elam or David.
Also in The Restoration, the author, Wanda Brunstetter, has brought us up to date on the lives of some of the other characters in The Decision and The Gift.
At the end of the book there is a recipe for Priscilla's Friendship Salad.
I highly recommend Prairie State Friends to a good read about friendship, love, and forgiveness. I enjoyed how Wanda Brunstetter has kept the reader up to date on the lives of the other characters in this series of books.

[Danielle Turko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Priscilla and Elam have been courting for a year, and while that would usually mean a proposal Priscilla still finds herself waiting for Elam to ask the question. When their English friend David shows up out of the blue, announcing he want to join the faith, Priscilla is thrilled but Elam is leery. While Priscilla has been waiting for a committment from Elam, he has been working 2 jobs to afford a house for them. He feels like David is joining the faith just to woo Priscilla, which makes him more determined than ever to get the money he needs so David can't steal his girlfriend. When Priscilla gets injured and there's a perfect opportunity to shut David out, will Elam be able to prove to Priscilla that's the right thing to do.
I don't think the twist was as surprising as she intended it to be. I feel like it was expected and the book would have fallen flat any other way. There was also a lot of characters telling the story, so trying to keep track of them all could be a little much sometimes if you didn't notice when the POV changed

[Rosemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the final book of the series, Adam Beachy, now married to Leah Mast and expecting a child of their own (in addition to raising his three nieces), is still struggling with reconciling with his mother (now living an English life with a son from her second marriage). Meanwhile, Leah's friends Priscilla and Elaine are courting two young men, but are unsure if they will marry. Priscilla's beau has yet to propose, and Elaine can't seem to accept a marriage proposal from her beau because she's still in love with Jonah Miller (who married someone else, then became a widower).

This third novel in the series wraps up all the loose ends in everyone's lives. Although things didn't work out the way some planned, things worked out for the best.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Spoiler Alert ***

I was loving this series until the Restoration. I normally enjoy all of her books, but I was rather disappointed at end the way the conflict between Priscilla, David, and Elam was resolved. To me that was not a resolution. While everything is forgivable, I don't think it sends a good message to young lady that Elam's overtly jealous behavior and decision to "help David out" was something to overlook. That type of behavior is not something anyone should overlook and continue forward with in a relationship. Bad message. Sometimes it's best to let characters walk off into the sunset...alone.

[Barbara Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming and Exciting

This last of the Prairie State Friends series is the most heartwarming and exciting of them all. The faithfulness of the 3 friends is outstanding. I was so caught up in the story I had to stay up in the middle of the night to read the next chapter. Wonderful characters and. Story.

[Tina M. Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were a lot of stories in one. All the characters were great! I never got bored reading the story of three friends.

There was plenty of scripture and many, many learning opportunities. I enjoyed everything about this book. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a love story that is CLEAN.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Restoration is the third and final installment in Wanda Brunstetter's Prairie State Friend series. This is a series that can be most enjoyed if read in order as the same characters appear in each book and develop throughout the series.
Overall, a light read with nice characters for those times that readers need a simple escape.

[Chanover55 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three Amish friends have three different stories that they go through together. Priscilla is waiting for a marriage proposal but will it ever come? Elaine has gotten a proposal but does she love him or still have feelings for another? And will Leah 's husband reconcile with his Miller, who left her children for a new life?

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final book in the series, and it does help to read them in order. I knew that all 3 of the main friends in this series would be happily married and that relationships would be restored, but it was interesting to see all the events that happened to each of the characters. Some things did seem too coincidental, but in the end, everything worked out for the good.

[Crissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seemed to start off in the middle but I missed that I wasn't starting with book 1. I wanted to reach into my book and smack a few characters for just talking to themselves and making things more difficult instead of talking it over with those involved.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Ending

This is another book by Wanda E. Brunstetter that I really enjoyed reading. She brought a wonderful ending to this series. If you enjoy Amish books, this is a great series to read.

[Sherry Ledet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished book 3 of this series and all three books were very good. I would recommend them to lovers of Amish fiction or anyone interested in reading one. They are all good clean stories about Christian values among these young adults faced with many of the same things all young adults face.

[Shannon Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Wanda series finished and already wishing there was more to this series but I do like that it ended with us knowing what happens to all the main characters in the book.

[Melanie Kilsby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely didn't end the way I thought it would and this was like 3 novellas in one... but full review will be up shortly!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️ Great series!

[jodigamblehotmail.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

Always enjoy Wanda’s books. Great storyteller and allows the message come through. Always refreshing to read good clean Godly love stories.

[Christine Hayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great ending. Really good books

[Mary Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great last book in the trilogy. Loved the ending.

[Pat Sabin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series was a great read! Wanda is definitely a great story-teller! The story captured me right from the beginning!