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The Bishop's Daughter
Patricia Johns makes her Amish romance debut with The Bishop’s Daughter. In this poignant, beautifully written novel, a faithful young Amish widow has a second chance at romance when she is reunited with her wayward first love . . . As a bishop’s daughter and good Amish mother, widowed Sadie Hochstetler teaches her young son that God blesses those who try their best to please Him. But her brief marriage taught her that life is infinitely more complicated than that. Older, and serious, her late husband seemed a sensible choice—especially compared to Elijah Fisher, the spirited boy with whom she butted heads and hearts. Then Elijah abruptly left for the Englisher world, taking Sadie’s beloved brother along with him—a double betrayal she still strives to forgive. Especially now that Elijah has returned . . . Elijah plans to stay in the Amish community only as long as he’s needed, helping his family and working for Sadie’s ailing father. The outside world has changed him, leading him to question rules and restrictions that others take on faith. Once, he’d been head over heels in love with the bishop’s daughter—a girl he was judged unworthy of courting. Nine years have changed so much between them. Yet something remains—a spark that, for all their differences, might light the way home again . . ."Heartrending, poignant and perceptive, this beautifully written story has a cultural rather than a solely religious focus and will appeal to fans of sweet romance across the board. A solid debut." —Library Journal STARRED REVIEW for The Bishop’s Daughter
- GenresAmishChristian Fiction
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2019
35 people are currently reading
935 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Johns
169 books355 followersPublishers Weekly bestselling author Patricia Johns writes sweet romance. She lives in Alberta, Canada with her husband and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 20, 2019
4.5 stars
My first array into this genre was fascinating.
Sadie Hochstetler is a young widow with a little son. Her much older husband died without leaving her any provision, so she had to come back to live with her parents. Her father, bishop Gruber begins to feel unwell and decides to hire help- Elijah Fisher who has just come back from the Englisher world. 9 years ago Elijah left and took with him Bishop Gruber 's son and Sadie's beloved brother Absalom. Sadie and Elijah were secret sweethearts and Sadie's heart was broken when Elijah left without saying goodbye. Sadie's marriage was miserable, as she never managed to earn her husband's affection. She is more mature now and better at understanding how hard relationships and marriages can be. Elijah is back to his Amish community only for a short time to help his parents financially and then he wants to open a business in the Englisher world. Can Sadie and Elijah find a future together? And if yes, where and based on what?
I liked how well-built the characters were. The narrative isn't particularly fast-paced, so there was a lot of time to add depth into this exploration of what love, affection and responsibility is.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
My first array into this genre was fascinating.
Sadie Hochstetler is a young widow with a little son. Her much older husband died without leaving her any provision, so she had to come back to live with her parents. Her father, bishop Gruber begins to feel unwell and decides to hire help- Elijah Fisher who has just come back from the Englisher world. 9 years ago Elijah left and took with him Bishop Gruber 's son and Sadie's beloved brother Absalom. Sadie and Elijah were secret sweethearts and Sadie's heart was broken when Elijah left without saying goodbye. Sadie's marriage was miserable, as she never managed to earn her husband's affection. She is more mature now and better at understanding how hard relationships and marriages can be. Elijah is back to his Amish community only for a short time to help his parents financially and then he wants to open a business in the Englisher world. Can Sadie and Elijah find a future together? And if yes, where and based on what?
I liked how well-built the characters were. The narrative isn't particularly fast-paced, so there was a lot of time to add depth into this exploration of what love, affection and responsibility is.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 17, 2019
In this wonderful and incredibly sensitive story, Sadie Hochstetler is a widow. Sadie is also the daughter of the Bishop so much is required of her. As the mother of a young son, she works hard at teaching him to do his very best to please God. Sadie recognizes that in so doing, she may never find true happiness - she certainly never had it in her marriage, but at least she will be doing what is right.
Elijah Fisher was the boy she loved when she was a teenager. Her father highly disapproved at the time. At seventeen, Elijah left the Amish community for the Englisher world. He was gone for nine years, but now his father's business is suffering and he pleads with Elijah to help him. This puts a burden on both Sadie and Elijah. Their feelings are very strong with one another, but with Elijah no longer being Amish, and Sadie being a widow, there is no future for them.
Sadie's father is ill, and has hired Elijah to help care for his farm. This brings Sadie and Elijah around one another as they care for chores. One reason this is especially difficult for Sadie is that her brother Absolom left with Elijah all those years ago, and never returned to his family or his faith. So, Elijah becomes the tie between Sadie and her brother.
I am a woman of faith, albeit a different one, and I was very moved by the dynamics in this story. This was multi-layered as it not only dealt with the loss of faith Elijah experienced, and how the families were affected by such. The story also helped readers to see what Sadie went through during her marriage. She did all she could to be a good wife at the time, and must eventually come to terms with how this affected her and what the future could be like for her and her son. Then there is Absolom's girlfriend, Sharon, and what she was experiencing. Lastly, the way the families in the Amish faith are affected when members leave. This part of the story was handled in a responsible manner and made the story that much better.
This is the second book I have read by Patricia Johns and I truly enjoy her writing. I look forward to reading much more by this wonderful writer.
Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Elijah Fisher was the boy she loved when she was a teenager. Her father highly disapproved at the time. At seventeen, Elijah left the Amish community for the Englisher world. He was gone for nine years, but now his father's business is suffering and he pleads with Elijah to help him. This puts a burden on both Sadie and Elijah. Their feelings are very strong with one another, but with Elijah no longer being Amish, and Sadie being a widow, there is no future for them.
Sadie's father is ill, and has hired Elijah to help care for his farm. This brings Sadie and Elijah around one another as they care for chores. One reason this is especially difficult for Sadie is that her brother Absolom left with Elijah all those years ago, and never returned to his family or his faith. So, Elijah becomes the tie between Sadie and her brother.
I am a woman of faith, albeit a different one, and I was very moved by the dynamics in this story. This was multi-layered as it not only dealt with the loss of faith Elijah experienced, and how the families were affected by such. The story also helped readers to see what Sadie went through during her marriage. She did all she could to be a good wife at the time, and must eventually come to terms with how this affected her and what the future could be like for her and her son. Then there is Absolom's girlfriend, Sharon, and what she was experiencing. Lastly, the way the families in the Amish faith are affected when members leave. This part of the story was handled in a responsible manner and made the story that much better.
This is the second book I have read by Patricia Johns and I truly enjoy her writing. I look forward to reading much more by this wonderful writer.
Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 27, 2019
I really enjoyed reading, The Bishops Daughter.
The Amish are very strict people, the have no choice but to participate in the Englisher world but yet they hold themselves apart from it lest they become tempted by our worldliness.
This story shows how the Amish and the Englishers expect a Bishops family to act, above mistakes and expected to lead his people the same way. What happens when some of the Bishops family turns out to be the ones making mistakes and showing they are just people who make mistakes and are not above reproach. What if some of the Bishop's family are the ones who have strayed? Is it ok if the Bishop makes allowances in the community just for his family?
Very different look at the Amish in the book.
I loved seeing the flawed characters in this book, as we all are.
I do believe with how this book ended there will be a continuation to it in another book and I look forward to reading it.
Published April 30th 2019 by Zebra.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
Please check this and all my reviews out on my blog https://cnnamongirl.wixsite.com/website
The Amish are very strict people, the have no choice but to participate in the Englisher world but yet they hold themselves apart from it lest they become tempted by our worldliness.
This story shows how the Amish and the Englishers expect a Bishops family to act, above mistakes and expected to lead his people the same way. What happens when some of the Bishops family turns out to be the ones making mistakes and showing they are just people who make mistakes and are not above reproach. What if some of the Bishop's family are the ones who have strayed? Is it ok if the Bishop makes allowances in the community just for his family?
Very different look at the Amish in the book.
I loved seeing the flawed characters in this book, as we all are.
I do believe with how this book ended there will be a continuation to it in another book and I look forward to reading it.
Published April 30th 2019 by Zebra.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
Please check this and all my reviews out on my blog https://cnnamongirl.wixsite.com/website
May 11, 2019
The Bishop’s Daughter by Patricia Johns is moving Amish fiction. I’m a huge fan of this genre and was immensely pleased with this story.
While there are religious themes in this novel, that’s not really what it’s about. This is a story about love and second chances and not just in the romantic aspect. Ms. Johns has dared to show the difficulties with putting community before self. These characters are real people with failings and insecurities who must face the reality of their way of life and the misconceptions that come from a lack of understanding and acceptance. The Bishop’s Daughter is an eye-opener. Things aren’t always as they seem. This is a 5 star read and I highly recommend it.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
While there are religious themes in this novel, that’s not really what it’s about. This is a story about love and second chances and not just in the romantic aspect. Ms. Johns has dared to show the difficulties with putting community before self. These characters are real people with failings and insecurities who must face the reality of their way of life and the misconceptions that come from a lack of understanding and acceptance. The Bishop’s Daughter is an eye-opener. Things aren’t always as they seem. This is a 5 star read and I highly recommend it.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
April 4, 2019
The author has placed this story in an Amish community in Indiana, and we are dealing with a few members who have jumped the fence, or gone into the world.
We are also with a young woman who has returned to her family after her husband has passed away, she had married a much older man.
When one of the fence jumpers comes home, with the stipulation that he is going to leave again, sparks begin to fly again between these two individuals, and we know that nothing can come of it.
Our young woman is the daughter of the bishop, and he is a stern and strict person, and he is the main reason his son has also left.
There are lots of surprises that I never saw coming her, and it makes for a great page-turning read. One you don’t want to miss, and I could almost see another book coming here!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are also with a young woman who has returned to her family after her husband has passed away, she had married a much older man.
When one of the fence jumpers comes home, with the stipulation that he is going to leave again, sparks begin to fly again between these two individuals, and we know that nothing can come of it.
Our young woman is the daughter of the bishop, and he is a stern and strict person, and he is the main reason his son has also left.
There are lots of surprises that I never saw coming her, and it makes for a great page-turning read. One you don’t want to miss, and I could almost see another book coming here!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
May 28, 2019
I had the privilege of reading my first Paticia Johns novel last week (a Love Inspired) and was really impressed by her storytelling style so when this book showed up at my public library I snatched it up and then settled down to devour it in one sitting -- it's that good.
This second chance love story is complex and layered and I loved the way the author explores issues of the Ordnung from multiple angles. Really made for a fascinating -- and emotional -- read.
Sadie has always felt the pressure of being the Bishop's daughter -- it has shaped her into the serious, sensible...dare I say straight-laced?...woman she is now. The exact opposite to Elijah's rebellious spirit. Their differences caused trouble in their youth and his sudden reappearance rocks Sadie's structured world. Sparks fly and toe-curls ensue! The kind of romance that takes a reader on a roller coaster ride straight through to the end.
A beautifully written, thought-provoking read.
This second chance love story is complex and layered and I loved the way the author explores issues of the Ordnung from multiple angles. Really made for a fascinating -- and emotional -- read.
Sadie has always felt the pressure of being the Bishop's daughter -- it has shaped her into the serious, sensible...dare I say straight-laced?...woman she is now. The exact opposite to Elijah's rebellious spirit. Their differences caused trouble in their youth and his sudden reappearance rocks Sadie's structured world. Sparks fly and toe-curls ensue! The kind of romance that takes a reader on a roller coaster ride straight through to the end.
A beautifully written, thought-provoking read.
April 29, 2019
I was intrigued by the characters and story line and I read this story in one day because I couldn't wait to find out what would happen. The plot could have gone in so many directions and I was relieved (and happy) how it ended. I enjoyed the main characters Sadie, her son, and Elijah her brothers friend.
I was reminded how complicated Amish culture and relationships are while reading this book and I liked how the author showed them using scripture and prayer to figure out their future, and not just follow what had always been done. I would love to read more books with these characters and town in them. I really enjoyed reading it!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
I was reminded how complicated Amish culture and relationships are while reading this book and I liked how the author showed them using scripture and prayer to figure out their future, and not just follow what had always been done. I would love to read more books with these characters and town in them. I really enjoyed reading it!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
March 16, 2019
Love is the main theme here. A wonderful theme I might add.
Love is patient, Love is Kind. But it's easier said than done. For some parents it is hard to show love where their kids are concerned. Others want only the best for their kids.
While other still yet don't want the responsibility to take care of their kids.
This story kind of hit home with me because it sort of reminds of the life I had with my parents. They provided for me ok but they never really cared for me because my dad said quote I wasn't his by blood. Mom later in life it was like she gave up on herself. She stayed sick a lot
But I learned a hard lesson just like Elijah. Home is where the heart is and where your family is no matter the situation you ran away from. I wanted to reach through the story and give Elijah the hug and love he so desperately needed. But I also wanted to choke him because I got so tired of him and Sadie telling each other they weren't meant for each other. I felt like Groundhog day the movie in this book!!
I can't imagine a man not loving me but I guess it can happen. I kept wanting to kick Sadie in the butt to see what was right in front if her before it was too late. Thank the Lord God He works in mysterious ways!!
You can't shove away what's meant to be. It's all part of God's bigger plan for all of us. Even if we can't see it at the time.
Some us are just so set in our ways that we are comfortable. We're too afraid to take that big step outside our comfort zone like some of the Amish were.
Traditions can be good but they can also be harmful. There wouldn't be any room to grow as needed.
For the most part, I really enjoyed the book except for the repetitive parts. I'm still giving this book 5 stars because I do love a good Amish novel. They are an interesting people and some of us can learn from them
An oh my!! I just love the name Absolom!! Oh sooooooo gorgeous of a name! It's an usual name and I thought he lived up to his name in this story!
I hope there's a sequel to this book because Elijah and Sadie have more to tell!!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
Love is patient, Love is Kind. But it's easier said than done. For some parents it is hard to show love where their kids are concerned. Others want only the best for their kids.
While other still yet don't want the responsibility to take care of their kids.
This story kind of hit home with me because it sort of reminds of the life I had with my parents. They provided for me ok but they never really cared for me because my dad said quote I wasn't his by blood. Mom later in life it was like she gave up on herself. She stayed sick a lot
But I learned a hard lesson just like Elijah. Home is where the heart is and where your family is no matter the situation you ran away from. I wanted to reach through the story and give Elijah the hug and love he so desperately needed. But I also wanted to choke him because I got so tired of him and Sadie telling each other they weren't meant for each other. I felt like Groundhog day the movie in this book!!
I can't imagine a man not loving me but I guess it can happen. I kept wanting to kick Sadie in the butt to see what was right in front if her before it was too late. Thank the Lord God He works in mysterious ways!!
You can't shove away what's meant to be. It's all part of God's bigger plan for all of us. Even if we can't see it at the time.
Some us are just so set in our ways that we are comfortable. We're too afraid to take that big step outside our comfort zone like some of the Amish were.
Traditions can be good but they can also be harmful. There wouldn't be any room to grow as needed.
For the most part, I really enjoyed the book except for the repetitive parts. I'm still giving this book 5 stars because I do love a good Amish novel. They are an interesting people and some of us can learn from them
An oh my!! I just love the name Absolom!! Oh sooooooo gorgeous of a name! It's an usual name and I thought he lived up to his name in this story!
I hope there's a sequel to this book because Elijah and Sadie have more to tell!!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
April 2, 2019
Sadie and Elijah's most unlikely second chance at love. Provides a first chance for happiness for so many others. As well as themselves. In this most heartwarming one sitting wonder.
I really enjoyed The Bishop's Daughter. Although the beginning was what amounted to your usual, bad boy back to save devout parents issue.
This story really doesn't find its feet until Sadie is allowed to go with Elijah back to Chicago to see her brother.
It is when she finally gets to see Absalom in his role as father and boyfriend to his child's mother, Sharon. That she comes to understand. That life may not be as black and white to the rest of the world. As life with her father and in the Amish community has led her to believe.
The one the one thing about this story that readers may find hard to swallow. Is Absalom's parents inability to accept, or even entertain the fact that he has a life outside of the Amish community. All they were interested in is whether or not he could or would come home.
Inasmuch as one can understand or even sympathize with his parents. This may be a sticking point with some readers. Due to the fact that Absalom's coming home would literally mean the breaking up of a family. And his having to leave both his natural child, and his adopted one. For a community that is built on the tenants of family and God first. This seems not only drastic, but also very hypocritical.
Given the fact that mental illness was alluded to. Through the character of Sharon. It would have been very nice to have seen that expounded upon. Especially since said illness plays a major part in this story's stories heartwarming ending.
All in all. This book had just the right amount of family, faith, and good old-fashioned drama to keep the pages turning. Not to mention the tear-jerking, afore mentoned heartwarming, and life-affirming ending that we read these romances for.
I really enjoyed The Bishop's Daughter. Although the beginning was what amounted to your usual, bad boy back to save devout parents issue.
This story really doesn't find its feet until Sadie is allowed to go with Elijah back to Chicago to see her brother.
It is when she finally gets to see Absalom in his role as father and boyfriend to his child's mother, Sharon. That she comes to understand. That life may not be as black and white to the rest of the world. As life with her father and in the Amish community has led her to believe.
The one the one thing about this story that readers may find hard to swallow. Is Absalom's parents inability to accept, or even entertain the fact that he has a life outside of the Amish community. All they were interested in is whether or not he could or would come home.
Inasmuch as one can understand or even sympathize with his parents. This may be a sticking point with some readers. Due to the fact that Absalom's coming home would literally mean the breaking up of a family. And his having to leave both his natural child, and his adopted one. For a community that is built on the tenants of family and God first. This seems not only drastic, but also very hypocritical.
Given the fact that mental illness was alluded to. Through the character of Sharon. It would have been very nice to have seen that expounded upon. Especially since said illness plays a major part in this story's stories heartwarming ending.
All in all. This book had just the right amount of family, faith, and good old-fashioned drama to keep the pages turning. Not to mention the tear-jerking, afore mentoned heartwarming, and life-affirming ending that we read these romances for.
June 17, 2019
It was a cute story about a couple who separated and then found each other again. About a young man who desperately wants to return to the English world but it pulled back by obligation to his family when his dad writes to him struggling.
The ending though really bugged me. I felt it was far too rough and very out of character for Absolom. While I understood Elijah's sudden decision, Absolom's just didn't fit. Nor did it really set anything up for long term.
Disappointing...
** ARC received from Netgalley **
The ending though really bugged me. I felt it was far too rough and very out of character for Absolom. While I understood Elijah's sudden decision, Absolom's just didn't fit. Nor did it really set anything up for long term.
Disappointing...
** ARC received from Netgalley **
September 30, 2019
I wish I could give this book more then 5 stars. This book is so good, I think it reflects well on modern life meeting Amish life. Patricia Johns brings the real life struggles of both the Amish world and the "English" world together in a wonderful story of family. I can't imagine living a life that is ruled by faith, yet I can't imagine living life without faith! This is just a good story and I did not want it to end, I hope we hear more about these families and how they are doing.
May 11, 2023
Oh my goodness I liked this book so much! I love when writers tackle the real hard stuff of life and not just gloss over it with romance. This was a good one!
April 30, 2019
The Bishop's Daughter by Patricia Johns
In this poignant, beautifully written novel, a faithful young Amish widow is reunited with her wayward first love . . .
As a bishop’s daughter and good Amish mother, widowed Sadie Hochstetler teaches her young son that God blesses those who try their best to please Him. But her brief marriage taught her that life is infinitely more complicated than that. Older, and serious, her late husband seemed a sensible choice—especially compared to Elijah Fisher, the spirited boy with whom she butted heads and hearts. Then Elijah abruptly left for the Englisher world, taking Sadie’s beloved brother along with him—a double betrayal she still strives to forgive. Especially now that Elijah has returned . . .
Elijah plans to stay in the Amish community only as long as he’s needed, helping his family and working for Sadie’s ailing father. The outside world has changed him, leading him to question rules and restrictions that others take on faith. Once, he’d been head over heels in love with the bishop’s daughter—a girl he was judged unworthy of courting. Nine years have changed so much between them. Yet something remains—a spark that, for all their differences, might light the way home again .
This is Sadie Hochstetler and Elijah Fisher's story.
Sadie and Elijah were secret sweethearts and Sadie's heart was broken when Elijah left without saying goodbye.
Sadie Hochstetler three year old son Samuel.
“Sammie,” she said softly. “It’s time to get up.”
Samuel stirred, then blinked open his eyes. He yawned and blinked a few times more.
“Good morning, sugar,” she said with a smile. “Come on. We’ll get you dressed and wash your face. Are you hungry?”
Samuel nodded. “I want breakfast.”
Sadie sister Rosmanda Hochstetler who is very young.
Rosmanda pulled the lids and plates off the bowls of food, and steam rose from each dish. Samuel crawled up into his booster seat, and he stared hungrily at the corn fritters, his particular favorite. Sammie wouldn’t dare touch the food before they prayed, but she spotted his fingers inching toward the table, and she shot him a warning look. At three, he was old enough to follow the rules.
The family sat around the table, and they bowed their heads in silent prayer. When Daet raised his head, they all followed his example, and the meal began.
“Your mamm and I talked about hiring some help around here,” Daet said, filling his plate with corn fritters, bacon, and fried eggs. “Here, Samuel. A fritter for you.”
Bishop Benjamin Gruber Sadie father.
Sadie's father hires a hand to help him maintain his farm. That farm hand is Sadie's first and only love that left the community along with her brother nine years ago.
Elijah Fisher has returned to his Amish community so that he can help his father.
Sadie's beloved brother Absalom.
The last time he’d been on this land, he and Absolom had been sneaking away in the dead of night with bags over their shoulders.
Dear Mamm and Daet,
I know it’s been a long time since I wrote to you.My girlfriend, Sharon, is pregnant.
I’m going to be a daet now. She’s due in August, and I’m real excited. I thought you should know that you’ll have another grandchild.
I miss you.Absolom
I am looking forward to reading more books by Patricia Johns.
I highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
The Bishop's Daughter by Patricia Johns is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
more books by Patricia Johns
FALLING FOR THE COWBOY DAD
HER COWBOY’S TWIN BLESSINGS
Montana Twins
by Patricia Johns
Her Lawman Protector: A Clean Romance (Home to Eagle's Rest)
by Patricia Johns
THE DEPUTY’S UNEXPECTED FAMILY
Comfort Creek Lawmen
by Patricia Johns
Her Twins' Cowboy Dad: A Fresh-Start Family Romance (Montana Twins)
by Patricia Johns
In this poignant, beautifully written novel, a faithful young Amish widow is reunited with her wayward first love . . .
As a bishop’s daughter and good Amish mother, widowed Sadie Hochstetler teaches her young son that God blesses those who try their best to please Him. But her brief marriage taught her that life is infinitely more complicated than that. Older, and serious, her late husband seemed a sensible choice—especially compared to Elijah Fisher, the spirited boy with whom she butted heads and hearts. Then Elijah abruptly left for the Englisher world, taking Sadie’s beloved brother along with him—a double betrayal she still strives to forgive. Especially now that Elijah has returned . . .
Elijah plans to stay in the Amish community only as long as he’s needed, helping his family and working for Sadie’s ailing father. The outside world has changed him, leading him to question rules and restrictions that others take on faith. Once, he’d been head over heels in love with the bishop’s daughter—a girl he was judged unworthy of courting. Nine years have changed so much between them. Yet something remains—a spark that, for all their differences, might light the way home again .
This is Sadie Hochstetler and Elijah Fisher's story.
Sadie and Elijah were secret sweethearts and Sadie's heart was broken when Elijah left without saying goodbye.
Sadie Hochstetler three year old son Samuel.
“Sammie,” she said softly. “It’s time to get up.”
Samuel stirred, then blinked open his eyes. He yawned and blinked a few times more.
“Good morning, sugar,” she said with a smile. “Come on. We’ll get you dressed and wash your face. Are you hungry?”
Samuel nodded. “I want breakfast.”
Sadie sister Rosmanda Hochstetler who is very young.
Rosmanda pulled the lids and plates off the bowls of food, and steam rose from each dish. Samuel crawled up into his booster seat, and he stared hungrily at the corn fritters, his particular favorite. Sammie wouldn’t dare touch the food before they prayed, but she spotted his fingers inching toward the table, and she shot him a warning look. At three, he was old enough to follow the rules.
The family sat around the table, and they bowed their heads in silent prayer. When Daet raised his head, they all followed his example, and the meal began.
“Your mamm and I talked about hiring some help around here,” Daet said, filling his plate with corn fritters, bacon, and fried eggs. “Here, Samuel. A fritter for you.”
Bishop Benjamin Gruber Sadie father.
Sadie's father hires a hand to help him maintain his farm. That farm hand is Sadie's first and only love that left the community along with her brother nine years ago.
Elijah Fisher has returned to his Amish community so that he can help his father.
Sadie's beloved brother Absalom.
The last time he’d been on this land, he and Absolom had been sneaking away in the dead of night with bags over their shoulders.
Dear Mamm and Daet,
I know it’s been a long time since I wrote to you.My girlfriend, Sharon, is pregnant.
I’m going to be a daet now. She’s due in August, and I’m real excited. I thought you should know that you’ll have another grandchild.
I miss you.Absolom
I am looking forward to reading more books by Patricia Johns.
I highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
The Bishop's Daughter by Patricia Johns is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
more books by Patricia Johns
FALLING FOR THE COWBOY DAD
HER COWBOY’S TWIN BLESSINGS
Montana Twins
by Patricia Johns
Her Lawman Protector: A Clean Romance (Home to Eagle's Rest)
by Patricia Johns
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May 5, 2019
The Bishop’s Daughter is a debut Amish novel by author Patricia Johns. Sadie Hochstetler is a widow with a three year old son. She has returned to the family home to live with her parents and sister, Rosmanda. As a widow with a child, Sadie is expected to marry again and provide a father for her son. However, Sadie was not happy in her marriage to the older Mervin Hochstetler, but it is not something she can share with others. Sadie’s father, Bishop Benjamin Graber has developed a heart condition and his doctor has told him he needs to rest more which goes against the Amish work ethic. He hires the newly returned Elijah Fisher to help around the dairy farm. Elijah left their community nine years ago and took Absolom Graber with him. Elijah was Sadie’s best friend and first love. He broke her heart when he left, and Sadie was doubly hurt when Elijah encouraged her brother to leave with him. Elijah did not want to come back, but his parents are suffering financially and need his assistance. He chafes under the rigid restrictions of the community and the pressure to conform. Elijah’s time in the Englisher world has changed him. How he feels for Sadie, though, has not changed, but the Bishop does not feel that Elijah is worthy of his daughter which is why he left their community. Is it possible for Sadie and Elijah to get their happily-ever-after or are they destined to remain apart?
The Bishop’s Daughter shows readers various aspects of an Amish community. Sadie Hochstetler was married the much older Mervin for just a year when he passed away. He did not know she was pregnant at the time and he failed to provide for her in his will. She is now living at home with her rigid father trying to raise her son following the rules of their community. Sadie is being pressured to marry, but it is the last thing she wants after the experiences of her first marriage. She has never forgotten her first love, Elijah Fisher and how he left her with her brother. Elijah left after being told by Bishop Graber that he was not good enough for Sadie. While he does not like life in the English world, he is happy to be away from the rigid rules of the Amish community. With Bishop Graber unwell, Sadie steps up to handle his chores. Elijah and Sadie are put in daily contact with each other when he begins working on their dairy farm. The old spark is still there between them but is it enough to base a life on. I thought the story was nicely written, but the pace was a little slow. The story addresses various topics about Amish life. We get to see how hard it can be to follow the rules and how a Bishop can bend the rules to suit his purposes. I know I would chafe under the restrictions and the lack of individuality. I could not believe that Sadie could not even write to her brother unless her father approved. Appearances are very important in their community and gossip can ruin a woman’s reputation. We see the differences between the younger Rosmanda with her view of love and the more mature Sadie. I did feel that the first half of the book kept addressing the same issues (felt like the plot was going around in a circle). I could not wait for the story to move forward. My favorite sentence from The Bishop’s Daughter was “love . . . it could be the sweetest of experiences and the most painful.” I liked that the author provided an epilogue and I am curious to find out what will happen with Absolom.
The Bishop’s Daughter shows readers various aspects of an Amish community. Sadie Hochstetler was married the much older Mervin for just a year when he passed away. He did not know she was pregnant at the time and he failed to provide for her in his will. She is now living at home with her rigid father trying to raise her son following the rules of their community. Sadie is being pressured to marry, but it is the last thing she wants after the experiences of her first marriage. She has never forgotten her first love, Elijah Fisher and how he left her with her brother. Elijah left after being told by Bishop Graber that he was not good enough for Sadie. While he does not like life in the English world, he is happy to be away from the rigid rules of the Amish community. With Bishop Graber unwell, Sadie steps up to handle his chores. Elijah and Sadie are put in daily contact with each other when he begins working on their dairy farm. The old spark is still there between them but is it enough to base a life on. I thought the story was nicely written, but the pace was a little slow. The story addresses various topics about Amish life. We get to see how hard it can be to follow the rules and how a Bishop can bend the rules to suit his purposes. I know I would chafe under the restrictions and the lack of individuality. I could not believe that Sadie could not even write to her brother unless her father approved. Appearances are very important in their community and gossip can ruin a woman’s reputation. We see the differences between the younger Rosmanda with her view of love and the more mature Sadie. I did feel that the first half of the book kept addressing the same issues (felt like the plot was going around in a circle). I could not wait for the story to move forward. My favorite sentence from The Bishop’s Daughter was “love . . . it could be the sweetest of experiences and the most painful.” I liked that the author provided an epilogue and I am curious to find out what will happen with Absolom.
May 11, 2019
This Amish story is different. To be honest I spent a lot of the time reading and trying to figure out where the plot in this book was going. Sadie is a special Amish woman. She is devout, a young widow who is a bishop's daughter and living to fit the image of one. Elijah is the man who left when he was the boy she loved. The boy who convinced the bishop's son, Sadie's brother, Absolom, to go with him out into the world of the (evil) Englishers. He comes back to the community when his father writes and pleads with him to help their failing financial situation. He is willing to help his family because he loves them even if he is basically rejected by the bishop who he gets a job with.
This is in many ways one of the most realistic stories I've ever read in the Amish genre. Life isn't simple for anyone and love isn't simple either. Many of us know that it is impossible for religion to be simple when steeped in traditions. This isn't a feel good story for the major part of it. There are portions of hopelessness in my mind as I read of the clash between the Amish tradition world and the Englisch one that Elijah and Absolom chose. It's a hard read in many ways. (Don't we pick up an Amish tale to get away from the challenges in our world? The illusion of a simpler, uncomplicated life soothes the reader.)
This story is about unyielding tradition, heartbreak, and even misinformation, all handled tactfully, realistically. It's an excellent example of someone trying to run away from reality to find out that it travels with the runaway. It's easy for the Amish to condemn outsiders and those who leave to go to the 'outside' when they are immersed in tradition to the point that they can't even acknowledge their own breaking hearts or their ignorance to the reality of 'other faiths'. This book certainly made me think and see both sides of these breaks between children and parents in a deeper way.
This was a hard book to immerse myself in but it was a deeper look into the lives and hearts of families affected by those who leave the Amish faith. It was interesting to get a glimpse into the dynamic. I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. This is my own opinion about this book. I'd find it interesting to see Absolom's story in the future.
This is in many ways one of the most realistic stories I've ever read in the Amish genre. Life isn't simple for anyone and love isn't simple either. Many of us know that it is impossible for religion to be simple when steeped in traditions. This isn't a feel good story for the major part of it. There are portions of hopelessness in my mind as I read of the clash between the Amish tradition world and the Englisch one that Elijah and Absolom chose. It's a hard read in many ways. (Don't we pick up an Amish tale to get away from the challenges in our world? The illusion of a simpler, uncomplicated life soothes the reader.)
This story is about unyielding tradition, heartbreak, and even misinformation, all handled tactfully, realistically. It's an excellent example of someone trying to run away from reality to find out that it travels with the runaway. It's easy for the Amish to condemn outsiders and those who leave to go to the 'outside' when they are immersed in tradition to the point that they can't even acknowledge their own breaking hearts or their ignorance to the reality of 'other faiths'. This book certainly made me think and see both sides of these breaks between children and parents in a deeper way.
This was a hard book to immerse myself in but it was a deeper look into the lives and hearts of families affected by those who leave the Amish faith. It was interesting to get a glimpse into the dynamic. I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. This is my own opinion about this book. I'd find it interesting to see Absolom's story in the future.
April 22, 2019
The Bishops Daughter is a very heartwarming story written by Particia Johns. This is my first story by this author but definitely will not be the last. I enjoyed her writing style and story very much. The author has done an outstanding job telling her story with the characters she created. This story is very intense and will definitely keep the readers interest to the end. As I read this story I felt as if I were standing there watching it play out because the author gave exceptional details and description.
I thought enjoyed getting to know Sadie Hochstetter and Elijah Fisher.Sadie being the devout Bishops daughter and Amish woman would not stray from her beliefs. Elijah, who jumped the fence as a teenager, is strong in his beliefs that the English world was where he belonged. There is a wide gap between these two and no apparent way to close it. Their journey is a long one but it may not turn out the way they hoped.
This story is full of love, regrets, sadness, and forgiveness. But are second chances always a given? This story has faith and teaches everyone to rely on it. But again faith or church is just not enough for everyone.
I was given the opportunity to read this book in advance of its release thanks to Netgalley and Patricia John's. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Patricia Jon's for writing this amazing story filled so much emotion. I will be anticipating more amazing stories from this author in the future.
I thought enjoyed getting to know Sadie Hochstetter and Elijah Fisher.Sadie being the devout Bishops daughter and Amish woman would not stray from her beliefs. Elijah, who jumped the fence as a teenager, is strong in his beliefs that the English world was where he belonged. There is a wide gap between these two and no apparent way to close it. Their journey is a long one but it may not turn out the way they hoped.
This story is full of love, regrets, sadness, and forgiveness. But are second chances always a given? This story has faith and teaches everyone to rely on it. But again faith or church is just not enough for everyone.
I was given the opportunity to read this book in advance of its release thanks to Netgalley and Patricia John's. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Patricia Jon's for writing this amazing story filled so much emotion. I will be anticipating more amazing stories from this author in the future.
March 29, 2019
I really enjoyed The Bishop's Daughter. It really showcased the difficulty a Bishop's family can experience when their own family strays.
In The Bishop's Daughter, Sadie Hochstetler is living in her family's home with her three year old son. Sadie's husband has died. Things change when Sadie's father hires a hand to help him maintain his farm. That farm hand is Sadie's first and only love that left the community along with her brother nine years ago.
Elijah Fisher has returned to his Amish community so that he can help his father who is financially strapped. Elijah has spent the last nine years in the English community. Elijah harbors some bitterness towards the Bishop for some of the rules the community goes by. Elijah also still has strong feelings for Sadie. As Sadie and Elijah begin working together, those feelings are rekindled. But Elijah has plans of returning to the English world. Sadie does not think Elijah would be the strong Amish influence her young son needs. When Elijah and Sadie go to the English world where Sadie's brother has made his life, Sadie's eyes are opened. She sees what happens when someone leaves the community and tries to live in the English world.
Soon circumstances force Elijah to make a stand and a decision. Is the love he feels for Sadie enough to keep him in his community and Sadie has to decide if Elijah would be the good Amish husband she is searching for.
The book is well written and the ending is so satisfying. I received and ARC of this book and this is my honest feedback.
In The Bishop's Daughter, Sadie Hochstetler is living in her family's home with her three year old son. Sadie's husband has died. Things change when Sadie's father hires a hand to help him maintain his farm. That farm hand is Sadie's first and only love that left the community along with her brother nine years ago.
Elijah Fisher has returned to his Amish community so that he can help his father who is financially strapped. Elijah has spent the last nine years in the English community. Elijah harbors some bitterness towards the Bishop for some of the rules the community goes by. Elijah also still has strong feelings for Sadie. As Sadie and Elijah begin working together, those feelings are rekindled. But Elijah has plans of returning to the English world. Sadie does not think Elijah would be the strong Amish influence her young son needs. When Elijah and Sadie go to the English world where Sadie's brother has made his life, Sadie's eyes are opened. She sees what happens when someone leaves the community and tries to live in the English world.
Soon circumstances force Elijah to make a stand and a decision. Is the love he feels for Sadie enough to keep him in his community and Sadie has to decide if Elijah would be the good Amish husband she is searching for.
The book is well written and the ending is so satisfying. I received and ARC of this book and this is my honest feedback.
April 24, 2019
Being the Bishops child is not easy . Sadie is a young widow with a young son who has to move back home . Her husband who was a good big older left her with a little money but his children from the first marriage received the farm. Her family has to hire someone to help with the farm since her dad has a heart condition. He hires Elijah . Elijah has not been in the Amish community for a few years. He left with Sadie's brother in the middle of the night. Being her first love she has several reasons to be upset with him. He only came back because he received a letter from his dad saying he needed help . Sadie finds out her brother will not come home because he is living with a girl and expecting a child. Elijah tries to explain to her the differences in what he and her brother believe and the tight beliefs of the Amish. They both still have very strong feelings for each other and don't know what to do with them. After she is allowed to go and see her brother and how he lives she realizes he cant and wont every come home. As much as it hurts her she has to let him go. A lot of things change with her fathers health. When the bishop comes home he lets Elijah go. But she her brother shows up and needs help. Elijah steps in and volunteers to help with his children. Sadie and Elijah talk and try to work things out for them both to be happy in the Amish church. I received this book as an ARC for my honest review.
May 27, 2019
This is not only a great Amish story, it’s a great family drama. It’s not your typical “sweet” Amish story. It does not present the Amish in an idealistic way; but shows the heartbreak that arises when a family member decides to leave the church and join the “English” world. The author did a good job showing both sides of the conflict in a sympathetic manner. There are genuine, strong characters in this book and I ended up feeling compassion for all of them. I might disagree with some the decisions the Bishop made, but the author helped me see the dilemma he faced as he had to balance what was best for members of his district as opposed to his role as father to a dearly-loved wayward son. Sadie, a young Amish widow with a three year old son, realizes that she is expected to marry again. She wants to feel loved and valued in a marriage, rather than just filling in a needed role in an Amish household. Her role in life as the “Bishop’s daughter” adds to the pressure to remarry. As she and Elijah discover they still have strong feelings for each other, they realize their two worlds are very far apart. Their romance added interest to this story, and also kept to the theme of the book. I’m hoping there’s a sequel to this one.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 17, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which received a starred review from Library Journal, about a young couple who just might have a second chance at love! It appeared to be very well-researched (although I am not an authority on Amish culture) and explained the cultural differences from the "Englisher" world very well, without speaking down to the reader. I enjoyed the comparisons of faith and worship between the two worlds, and also the differences in the way two small boys were being brought up, one inside the community, the other in the "Englisher" world. Kindness to others seems to be an important sub-theme throughout the book, although following the rules is spoken of more often. The characters were well-developed, and I look forward to reading more about the bishop's daughter Sadie, Elijah who came back from the "Englisher" world, Sadie's brother Absolom still away from the community, and her sister Rosamunda who is very young and a bit wilder than she should be... Will the small boys become friends? More books, please!
I received an advanced copy from Kensington books in a GoodReads Give-Away, but these opinions are all my own. Many thanks for this enjoyable early reading!
I received an advanced copy from Kensington books in a GoodReads Give-Away, but these opinions are all my own. Many thanks for this enjoyable early reading!
May 15, 2019
This is the first book that I have read by Patricia Johns but after reading this one I asked myself why?
I loved her writing and her compelling characters so I will definitely be reading more of her work.
Let's be honest and admit that we are all flawed people and the author didn't shy away from showing the flaws in her characters which I liked. I felt sorry for Sadie Hochstetler the young widow who returns to her parents home with her young son and I liked her immediately. At first I viewed Elijah Fisher negatively but as the story progressed I started to like and respect him. The family has so much to deal with from the bishops illness to a son who has left the Amish community and it was interesting how they chose to handle those situations.
I read this book pretty fast because I got caught up in the storyline and wanted find out what would happen in the lives of the Hochstetler family. The author made me care about her characters so much that I didn't want to say goodbye to them.
I received a complimentary copy of The Bishop's Daughter and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are my own.
I loved her writing and her compelling characters so I will definitely be reading more of her work.
Let's be honest and admit that we are all flawed people and the author didn't shy away from showing the flaws in her characters which I liked. I felt sorry for Sadie Hochstetler the young widow who returns to her parents home with her young son and I liked her immediately. At first I viewed Elijah Fisher negatively but as the story progressed I started to like and respect him. The family has so much to deal with from the bishops illness to a son who has left the Amish community and it was interesting how they chose to handle those situations.
I read this book pretty fast because I got caught up in the storyline and wanted find out what would happen in the lives of the Hochstetler family. The author made me care about her characters so much that I didn't want to say goodbye to them.
I received a complimentary copy of The Bishop's Daughter and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are my own.
April 18, 2021
I enjoyed this story of the Bishop’s daughter, Sadie, who is reunited with her first love, Elijah. He’d left with her brother, Absalom, 6 years ago to live with the English. Elijah is back to help save his father’s business from bankruptcy. Sadie’s father has heart problems and he hires Elijah to help around the farm.
While Elijah was gone, Sadie married a man 20-years her senior, had a son (Sammy) and then was left with nothing when her husband died and left her and Sammy nothing. Our OTP have never forgotten each other, but their path to HEA is blocked by her anger over his role in Absalom’s defection, his issues with the repressive nature of Amish society and Absalom’s continued absence compounded by his live-in girlfriend becoming pregnant.
Unlike some Amish romances, where the social rules seem inspired by Little House on the Prairie, these Amish reflect a religious people dedicated to pacifism, humility, purity and self-sacrifice with the needs of the group coming first. Godliness, community and family are paramount.
One of the things I really liked about this book is that both sides — Sadie (Amish) and Elijah (Englisher) —have valid points of view. Each character’s stakes are legitimate and understandable. Even the more unbending of them aren’t villains but people who stick to their world view without flinching. You can’t fault them for that (unless you’re unflinching in your world view, too). How the story resolves this conflict for our couple is believable, satisfying and heartbreaking all at the same time. This story made me laugh, cry, gasp and groan. It’s one I’ll reread, which is why I gave it 5 stars.
While Elijah was gone, Sadie married a man 20-years her senior, had a son (Sammy) and then was left with nothing when her husband died and left her and Sammy nothing. Our OTP have never forgotten each other, but their path to HEA is blocked by her anger over his role in Absalom’s defection, his issues with the repressive nature of Amish society and Absalom’s continued absence compounded by his live-in girlfriend becoming pregnant.
Unlike some Amish romances, where the social rules seem inspired by Little House on the Prairie, these Amish reflect a religious people dedicated to pacifism, humility, purity and self-sacrifice with the needs of the group coming first. Godliness, community and family are paramount.
One of the things I really liked about this book is that both sides — Sadie (Amish) and Elijah (Englisher) —have valid points of view. Each character’s stakes are legitimate and understandable. Even the more unbending of them aren’t villains but people who stick to their world view without flinching. You can’t fault them for that (unless you’re unflinching in your world view, too). How the story resolves this conflict for our couple is believable, satisfying and heartbreaking all at the same time. This story made me laugh, cry, gasp and groan. It’s one I’ll reread, which is why I gave it 5 stars.
October 19, 2024
A Bigger Story Than I Expected
The Bishop’s Daughter by Patricia Johns, might be described as a sweet Amish romance, but it turned out to be a much bigger, deeper story than I imagined. It starts out slow, but carefully draws the reader into the underlying conflict relationships and promises, responsibilities and desires, heartache and hope.
I cared about the characters, not only the hero and heroine, but the parents, the children, the neighbors, and the outsiders. My emotions were tugged this way and that throughout. Patricia Johns is a skilled writer.
I have read a few Amish titles in the past and decided the genre was not for me. I decided to try this author for one reason – I came across her Facebook posts about a frog couple. Yes, frogs. With a baby tadpole. The were short, humorous, and pulled me in. Don’t judge until you’ve read them.
I listened to The Bishop’s Daughter on Audible.com. Because I could hardly stop listening, I walked farther, did more housework, and slept less this week. But I enjoyed this story. Highly recommended for those who enjoy exploring deep questions about faith, family, and relationships.
The Bishop’s Daughter by Patricia Johns, might be described as a sweet Amish romance, but it turned out to be a much bigger, deeper story than I imagined. It starts out slow, but carefully draws the reader into the underlying conflict relationships and promises, responsibilities and desires, heartache and hope.
I cared about the characters, not only the hero and heroine, but the parents, the children, the neighbors, and the outsiders. My emotions were tugged this way and that throughout. Patricia Johns is a skilled writer.
I have read a few Amish titles in the past and decided the genre was not for me. I decided to try this author for one reason – I came across her Facebook posts about a frog couple. Yes, frogs. With a baby tadpole. The were short, humorous, and pulled me in. Don’t judge until you’ve read them.
I listened to The Bishop’s Daughter on Audible.com. Because I could hardly stop listening, I walked farther, did more housework, and slept less this week. But I enjoyed this story. Highly recommended for those who enjoy exploring deep questions about faith, family, and relationships.
June 30, 2020
Sadie is the daughter of their bishop and a mother to her son. With the death of her husband she tries to share how important the Lord is in each of their lives. As she teaches him the memories of his father things like being a good provider and trusting in the Lord. Then her thoughts turn to Elijah Fisher who was looking for adventure where her late husband was more serious. She also had bad thought about Elijah who took her brother with him when he left the group.These thoughts were how he took her brother when he left. When Elijah returned home her brother continued to stay in the world. He was back helping his father and also helping her father, the Bishop as well family as well as Sadie's father, the bishop of their group, who is unable to work. He now has started to view Sadie in a different light. Will this change his plans to return to the world or will the latent draw toward Sadie change his mind?
April 1, 2019
A unique look into the life of the Amish.
The lifestyle and simplicity of the Amish has gained vast popularity in recent years and so many books are being written about it. Its getting kinda repetitive. This one is a very unique look at the trouble the Amish face when they are given the choice of becoming english or marrying and staying in the Amish Faith. This is the first Amish book I have read that the author does not completely agree with all the rules and orders of the Amish. It caused me to really think about the Amish faith and if I personally agreed with the way the Amish faith is portrayed.
I would highly recommend this book if for no other reason than that the author really makes you think.
I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback, the opinions expressed within are my own.
The lifestyle and simplicity of the Amish has gained vast popularity in recent years and so many books are being written about it. Its getting kinda repetitive. This one is a very unique look at the trouble the Amish face when they are given the choice of becoming english or marrying and staying in the Amish Faith. This is the first Amish book I have read that the author does not completely agree with all the rules and orders of the Amish. It caused me to really think about the Amish faith and if I personally agreed with the way the Amish faith is portrayed.
I would highly recommend this book if for no other reason than that the author really makes you think.
I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback, the opinions expressed within are my own.
May 8, 2023
I enjoyed this book, but was disappointed it wasn't Christian based. Not every Amish novel. There seemed to be many sub plots. I wasn't interested in the brother's story, but it was a catalyst to the novel. There was mention on mental health issues, but wasn't mentioned much. How do the Amish deal with that? There was some good philosphy. I am interested in reading more of the author's books and have books reserved for the public library. Absolom's girlfriend is Mennonite, yet she went through the foster system? That's confusing. In the end, it was a novel of enjoyable moments and challenges. and appreciated the end. Sometimes fate helps a couple connect. It's not necessarily their goals towards each other.
February 27, 2019
I read this sweet novel in a day. I got sucked right into the storyline. The quick wit and wisdom of the characters is laugh out loud while some parts tug at your heartstrings. Each character is well rounded and you have a good grasp of their personality. I would hope for a 2nd book possibly about the fiesty and defiant Rosmanda. And I want to know how the children and the family become one since they blended so much. And the bishop and his son need to reconnect. And an apology needs to be made from one Daet to another .
March 10, 2019
This is a story of Sadie Hochstetler,who is the Bishop's daughter. Sadie losses her husband who was much older than her and moves back with her parents. Sadie's marriage was not one with a lot of love. Elijah Fisher was her love as a child. Elijah left the faith with her brother years ago. He comes back to help his father with his failing farm. To earn money the only one who will hire him is the Bishop. This story is about forgiveness and learning to trust again. It is a well written book with lots to learn from. Thanks NetGalley for the chance to read and give my honest review.
August 2, 2019
I really did enjoy this book. However, I think the author may need to do some more research on the Amish. As I understand it, you have to be a baptized church member before you can be shunned. There were also some other instances of errors in the Amish way of life. I also felt that some major issues in the book were resolved too quickly in the end. It felt like the author had to finish the book w/in a certain number of pages, & she was running out of time. I wish there would be a continuation of this story.
May 22, 2019
I got this book in one of the Goodreads give-aways. It was really good. The story is about an Amish girl named Sadie who is a widow with a small son. She has gone back to live with her father, the bishop. Her older brother and his best friend ran away to live among the Englishers. Sadie's father has heart problems and has been told to slow down. Her brother's best friend has come back to help his father and is hired to help Sadie's dad on the farm.
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