Syn biskupa

The Amish of Bee County #2

by Kelly Irvin, Magdalena Moltzan-Małkowska (Translator)

Miłość, tradycje i zwyczaje oraz bolesne rozterki pomiędzy sercem a rozumem. Po bestsellerowym Synu pszczelarza czas na kolejną historię z malowniczej wspólnoty amiszów!

Minął ponad rok, odkąd Leila Lantz przyjechała z matką i rodzeństwem do Bee County w Teksasie. Rok wzlotów i upadków, w czasie którego musiała oswoić się z nową rzeczywistością i pogodzić z tym, że nigdy nie wróci do ukochanego Tennessee, gdzie spędziła dzieciństwo.

Jesse Glick wzbudził jej zainteresowanie, gdy ujrzała go po raz pierwszy. Od początku ich ku sobie ciągnęło, ale on zdaje się ją zwodzić, jak gdyby sam nie wiedział, czego chce. Jeżeli nie jest pewien, dlaczego daje Leili fałszywą nadzieję?

Jest też Will, kuzyn Jesse’a. Próbuje ukrywać swoje uczucia, ale wie, że Jesse ma tajemnicę, która może Leilę wiele kosztować. Pytanie, co kieruje Willem: prawdziwa troska o dziewczynę czy może nie do końca bezinteresowne pobudki.

Leila musi wybrać między bezpieczną przystanią u boku Willa a niepewną przyszłością z Jesse’m. Co dopuści do głosu - rozum czy serce?

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

384 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2015

About the author

Best-selling author Kelly Irvin splits her writing time between Amish romances and romantic suspense. Her latest release is Trust Me (2/8/22), a romantic suspense novel set in San Antonio's historic art district. It explores broken trust and whether trust can ever be restored. Publishers Weekly called it a "whirlwind romantic thriller" and "an emotional rollercoaster."

Her latest Amish romance is Love's Dwelling, the first book in the Amish Blessings series, which released in July 2021. The series takes place in Yoder and Haven, Kansas, and looks at adoption among the Amish. The series follows her Amish romance series, Amish of Sky Country includes Mountains of Grace, followed by The Long Bridge Home, and Peace in the Valley. The series explores Amish communities in northwest Montana and how they are impacted by wildfires.

Other romantic suspense novels include Her Every Move, which Publishers Weekly called gripping suspense and said, "loving descriptions of San Antonio’s attractions enhance the well-paced plot."

The publication called Closer Than She Knows a "brisk, smoothly written, thriller."

Kelly's Every Amish Season series includes Upon A Spring Breeze, Beneath the Summer Sun, Through the Autumn Air, and With Winter's First Frost from Zondervan/HarperCollins Christian Publishing. This follows the Amish of Bee County series, The Saddle Maker's Son, released in June 2016. It is an ECPA bestseller. It follows The Bishop's Son, and the critically acclaimed bestseller, The Beekeeper's Son, which earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. The reviewer called it "a beautifully woven masterpiece." The Beekeeper's Son was a finalist in the romance category of the 2016 ACFW Carol Awards Contest.

Kelly is also the author of the Bliss Creek Amish series and the New Amish Amish series. The first series includes To Love and To Cherish, A Heart Made New, and Love’s Journey Home, published by Harvest House. The New Hope Amish series includes Love Still Stands, followed by Love Redeemed, which was an ACFW Carol Award finalist, and A Plain Love Song.

Kelly has also penned two other romantic suspense novels, A Deadly Wilderness and No Child of Mine..

The Kansas native is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and ACFW's San Antonio local chapter Alamo City Christian Fiction Writers.

A graduate of the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism, Kelly has been writing nonfiction professionally for thirty years. She studied for three semesters at the University of Costa Rica, learning the Spanish language. As a journalist, she worked six years in the border towns of Laredo and El Paso.

She worked in public relations for the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department for 22 years before retiring earlier this year. Kelly has been married to photographer Tim Irvin for twenty-eight years. They have two young adult children and have three grandchildren. In her spare time, she likes to write short stories, read books by her favorite authors, and looks forward to visits with her grandchildren.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE BISHOP’S SON is such a heart tugging story. Jesse doesn’t want to leave his community, but he just might not have a choice. He is being pulled to a higher calling of spreading God’s love, but his Amish faith does not approve or allow that. His Daed is the bishop so he can’t talk to him about the turmoil he is feeling, being torn between two worlds, so the only one in his community who knows is his cousin, Will. Leila has always been carrying feelings for Jesse and Jesse doesn’t want to take her away from everything in her life that she has. He hasn’t told Leila about his struggles yet, but he knows once he does, everything will change for both of them.

The Amish of Bee County series seems like the perfect series for me and THE BISHOP’S SON is exactly why. All of the characters from this story are fantastic. THE BISHOP’S SON is a story about a struggle of faith and decisions that would impact not only their lives but those that they love. Will is afraid for his cousin, and for Leila as well. He doesn’t want either of them to jump the fence and leave. How will their families deal with that? He also has feelings for Leila, but has never acted on them, but he feels as if he is running out of time and has to let Leila know how he feels. I did not want to put this book down.

THE BISHOP’S SON Is a tough read because you can only imagine how Jesse and Leila are struggling with their decisions they need make. Jesse doesnt want to hurt his family, but knows he is not fufilled with his Amish faith. Jesse has always had Leila’s heart but neither of them have acted on it. How can he walk away from her? Can Leila stay behind? This story had much more meat to it than I expected. THE BISHOP’S SON is another in-depth and insightful story by one of my favorite Amish fiction authors.

My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Kelly Irvin story and I’m excited to read the next book in this series. I loved how Ms. Irvin made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[✶Rachelle✶ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

Not as good as the first, but still entertaining. Ughhhh I'm so lost in Amish land now guys...

------------

Amish romance #2

Guyyssss I'm hooked.....

I've even put Strange the Dreamer on hold
0_O

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bishop’s Son is book two in the Amish of Bee County series. Book one, The Beekeeper’s Son, was one of my favorite Amish books to read this year and I highly recommend it. However, The Bishop’s Son can stand alone if you haven’t had the pleasure of reading book one yet.

I really enjoyed The Bishop’s Son. I thought that the author did a great job at showing the pressure that Jesse, who was the son of the bishop, felt as he was trying to decide where he belonged and what God wanted him to do with his life. The decision to stay Amish or leave for the world of the Englisch is something all Amish youth must decide as they go through rumpringa. Jesse’s dilemma was very tough.

Leila was a great character, as well. She has two young men who care for her, and this is only the beginning of the confusion! She is not totally sure about what her heart wants or about which man God has really called her to be with. She is also not so sure about these men and why they both are giving her mixed signals.

Will was a good character, too. Sure of his Amish faith, he provides the safe answer for Leila. He is strong and dedicated to everything that Leila has ever been taught is important. I liked all three of these main characters and also thought that this story has a great community of characters to make the book very interesting.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and definitely recommend it to fans of Amish fiction and those who enjoy a fresh spin on their Amish stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mesmerizing! The Bishop’s Son, By: Kelly Irvin
The Bishop’s Son is book two in The Amish of Bee County series by Kelly Irvin.
Oh my gosh this is such a mesmerizing story! It had me hooked right from the very beginning! It is a story about a struggle of faith and decisions that would impact not only their lives but those that they love. A story of the struggles of what the heart wants and what the mind says to do. This story shows not only compassion, but acceptance, forgiveness, faith, and hope. This is a MUST READ!! Buy it for someone else, it makes a great gift. Thank you Kelly for writing such a wonderful story. I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series. 5 stars!

[roserlynch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kontynuacja trzyma poziom, nadal w tle przekomarzają się postaci z pierwszego tomu, i poznajemy nowych równie cudownych z przepiękna historia.
Jest to opowieść rodzinna, ciepła z trudnym tematem w tle oraz decyzją, którą musi podjąć Leila. Kogo wybierze? Mężczyznę z innymi poglądami, gdzie większość osób, może się od niej odwrócić, ze względu na „inność” czy zostanie przy swojej rutynie życia i nie będzie ryzykować.
Jest tutaj trójkąt miłosny, ale nie jest on, aż tak wysunięty na pierwszy plan.
Jest to historia w stylu „Ani z Zielonego Wzgorza” będę to powtarzać wielokrotnie, CZYTAJCIE! ❤️✨

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:
Two men offer Leila two very different futures. Will she choose with her heart or with her faith?

Leila Lantz has been in love with Jesse Glick from the day she first saw him at his father’s store, but she can’t make sense of his intentions. One day he wants to come courting, the next he seems to be putting distance between them.

Jesse may be the bishop’s son, but his faith has been wavering of late. If he is so unsure, is it fair to give Leila false hope for a future he doubts he can provide?

Then there’s Will, Jesse’s cousin. He has been trying to keep his feelings for Leila a secret, but he also knows Jesse is wrestling with his faith. Would declaring his feelings for Leila be in her best interest or simply serving his own selfish desires?

Leila knows she can choose Will and be secure in her own future. But when her heart speaks, it’s Jesse’s name she hears. When will God make His will known to her? Could leaving everything she knows—even her own faith—be a part of God’s plan?

My Review:
Kelly Irvin has a hit on her hands, The Bishop's son is number two in the Amish of Bee County series. With each new book that she adds things get more and more interesting. It makes you want to run off to Texas to see what all the fuss is about.

Leila Lantz has been considering her future a lot lately. Especially when that future could be jeopardized by Jesse Glick. Jesse has always been the one for Leila but lately she senses some change is on the horizon when his feelings are floundering these days.

To make matters worse there is someone else that has feelings for this young lady and he can barely stop himself before announcing it to the world. But since Leila is his cousins love interest now may not be a good time to go expressing those feelings.

Leila needs to know what to do and God seems to be the only one who can tell her. Who will it be?

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Book Look.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just finished The Bishop’s Son by Kelly Irvin. It is the second book in The Amish of Bee County series. Leila’s mother, Abigail Lantz and Mordecai King are getting married. They will now be moving to Mordecai’s farm and all living together in Bee County, Texas. Jesse Glick (twenty) is the bishop’s son and is experiencing his rumspringa (for a couple of years now). He is interested in Leila Lantz, but he has a secret he is not ready to share (and would not be fair to her). Will Glick is Jesse’s cousin and is also interested in Leila. Will is young but he knows that he is committing his life to the Amish faith and community. Jesse does ask out Leila and takes her to a movie in town. He also introduces her to two of his friends: Colton and Tiffany (Englischers and Christians). Leila is not sure about going to movies, driving in cars, or public displays of affection (she gets upset when Jesse tries to hold her hand). Will takes Leila on a buggy ride so they can get to know each other. Leila also wants to help her family earn some money. There is a job available in Beeville at Little Angels Day Care. Will Bishop Leroy Glick let her work in town (she has to get his permission) and can Leila stay away from outside influences? Which man will win Leila’s heart? What is Jesse hiding and how it will affect Leila (and the community)?

The Bishop’s Son is a novel of choices (religious and life). Is there a right way or wrong way to worship? I did not enjoy The Bishop’s Son as much as Kelly Irvin’s other novels. It is slow paced and preachy. We do get to catch up with the characters we liked from the first novel in Bee County, Texas and witness the wedding of Abigail and Mordecai. Kelly Irvin is a good writer, but this book was just not my cup of tea (this book left me upset and frustrated). I give The Bishop’s Son 3.5 out of 5 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of The Bishop’s Son from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...

[DJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would imagine that being the son of a bishop would be about as difficult as being the son of a preacher. I was the daughter of a preacher – and my dad took his role very seriously.

Jesse is the son of a bishop. But Jesse is sneaking around – and sneaking around usually means trouble!

Kelly Irvin writes a wonderful story! It’s much more complex than I expected it to be, yet it was very simple. Life is usually like that, too. But finally, you reach the point where decisions – tough decisions – have to be made. And lived with.

Leila has cared for Jesse for many years, but when he begins staying away from home, running with Englischers, she must make a choice – a decision – of what is best to do. Jesse’s cousin Will would like her to choose him – and be baptized. Will Jesse accept this? And will he stay or will he leave?

Great story! Great characters… Amish and Englisch both. I’m certain parts of this story was difficult for Kelly to write, but she did a fine job.

If you’re reading The Amish of Bee County series, you won’t want to miss this sequel…

[Barbara Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Kelly Irvin has written another fantastic book in The Amish of Bee County series called The Bishop's Son. This is the second book in this series, but you can read it as a stand alone book. I was so captivated by this story that I would find myself re-reading certain parts of this book. This storyline brings an insightful and thoughtful message. Two young people who have to make a huge decision that doesn't just make change in their life, family, church and community, but makes major consequences in all of the above. Much prayer is needed and they need to hear an answer from God. What An Amazing Story! I highly recommend reading The Bishop's Son by Author Kelly Irvin. Even though you can read this book as a stand alone, you will miss reading a fabulous book in this series called The Beekeeper's Son which is Book One. I'm excited and looking forward to the next book in this series.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and author in exchange for my honest review. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.

[Zołza_czyta · Rating 4 out of 5]

W serii „W krainie amiszów” po pierwszym tomie widziałam duży potencjał. Dlatego zdecydowałam się, aby kontynuować przygodę z cyklem.
Leila Lantz od roku jest już w Teksasie. Przez ten czas jej mama i starsza siostra Debora ułożyły sobie życia. Zainteresowanie Leili wzbudza Jesse Glick – syn biskupa społeczności amiszów, do której oboje należą. Ciągnie ich do siebie od dłuższego czasu, ale myśli dziewczyny są też skierowane w stronę Willa – kuzyna Jesse’a. Leila czuje, że Jesse coś przed nią ukrywa. Will wie, co i za wszelką cenę chce dziewczynę przed tym uchronić.
Uważam, że ta seria z tomu na tom jest coraz lepsza. Ten podobał mi się bardziej niż poprzedni. Ta tajemnica Jesse’a dodawała akcji i pikanterii. Dzięki temu też dowiedzieliśmy się, co spotyka amieszów, którzy postanowili odłączyć się od wspólnoty. Ci, którzy postanowili odejść nazywani są najczęściej Englisher. Z takimi amiszami nie można mieć kontaktu, a już zwłaszcza, jeśli odeszli po chrzcie, który przyjęli we wspólnocie. Wtedy wykluczeni są na zawsze i już nie mogą wrócić.
Jesse podczas swojego rumspringa, czyli czasu wolności i korzystania z życia odkrył, że wiarę można wyznawać lepiej. Nie trzeba robić tego skromnie, bo można głosić słowo boże też innym i innych nawracać. Dla niego to coś ważnego, ale również zakazanego. Nie powinien nawet tak myśleć. Przejście na katolicyzm będzie największą hańbą dla rodziny danego amisza.
Poznawanie obyczajów amiszów jest fascynujące, bo, mimo, że żyją w XXI wieku to jednak postępują inaczej i nie uznają technologii. Czy cierpią na tym? Nie sądzę. Są oddani swojej wierze i temu, co ma dla nich w planach Pan. Uważam, że ich życie w kontekście przeżywania radości czy innych emocji jest lepsze, bo niezakłócone technologią. Jednak ja nie dałabym rady żyć w ten sposób – pewnie gdybym wychowała się we wspólnocie amiszów byłoby to dla mnie naturalne, ale rezygnacja z tego świadomie na ten moment jest dla mnie bardzo trudna.
Podsumowując drugi tom wciągnął mnie bardziej, bo miał w sobie więcej dramaturgii i akcji. Jest to jedna z nielicznych serii, które wraz z upływem tomów mają tendencję wzrostową, a nie spadkową. Mam nadzieję, że „Syn siodlarza” utrzyma ten wysoki poziom.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

They knew the same scriptures. Their beliefs bound them together more than they tore them apart.

Leila Lantz has found herself in a Amish love triangle. Two men have sought her heart. Jesse, the Bishop's son who is in a crisis of faith. He knows the scriptures and the Amish way of life but he finds himself at odds with his believing English friends. They have joy in their faith that he has never experienced. Being in this crisis, he knows he must not pursue Leila. This opens the door to Jesse's cousin Will. Knowing the dilemma that his cousin is facing, knows that Lelia would be better with him.

This love triangle brings out how faith and love come together. Will Lelia follow what is right in the Amish Faith or will she discover God's will for her life in Jesse. It asks the question what is God's will and how do I discover that. Jessie, Will and Lelia journey in the will of God is one that we all face and one that takes a lifetime. Was encouraged with this one.

A Special Thank you to Zondervan Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Charlotte Flanagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good story. I give it a 5++ stars!

[Dawn Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bishop’s Son isn’t your run-of-the-mill Amish love triangle book. Nor is it your standard dose of Amish fiction. Not only does the author set her story in an unusual place (Who knew there were Amish settlements in Texas?), with her thematic focus, Kelly Irvin takes chances. But it all seems to fit. You see, unlike the beautifully verdant and fertile pastures of Lancaster County, Bee County land is dry and unsuited to farming. This unforgiving landscape is like the untamed Wild West. Why is this a natural backdrop for The Bishop’s Son? Sit a spell and I’ll tell you just a touch (without giving too much away).

Kelly Irvin covers some potentially controversial ground while relating Leila Lantz’s story. As the plot progresses, Leila realizes that in order to choose between her two young Glick suitors, Jesse (the bishop’s son) and his cousin Will, she’ll need to ask herself some difficult questions that can only be answered by looking deep within her heart and examining not only her feelings, but her beliefs. If she chooses one, she’ll likely remain in her small Bee County district. Should she choose the other, her future is unknown and much more risky. About all Leila can be certain of is that she may need to leave everything — her community, her family, the only life she’s ever known — behind.

Thematically, discussions of theological differences between the Amish faith and Evangelical Christianity take center stage. Irvin succeeds in making each viewpoint understood. In fact, I think this novel may shed more light on rumspringa (the Amish period of experimentation, questioning, and testing one’s faith) and the practice of shunning than any I have previously read. I finished the book with a better understanding of each than I brought with me. Additionally, as I mentioned earlier, Irvin should be applauded for her choice of settings. The wild, untamed South Texas terrain is a strikingly suitable place to find a brave, rebellious young man who is ready to drop everything to go be a “fisher of men”.

Whether you’ll agree with all the assertions made and conclusions drawn in The Bishop’s Son, I can’t say. I can, however, tell you that you’ll find between these pages a story that, though it may at first glance feel familiar, turns out to be its own kettle of fish. That, in my opinion, is never a bad thing.

Verdict: 4 of 5 Stars. Out-of-the-Box Amish Fiction Guaranteed to Spark Discussion.

With The Bishop’s Son, Kelly Irvin ventures into an unforgiving Texas landscape to tackle tough questions about faith. Ultimately, whether you agree with her premise or not, should you come along for the ride, you’ll find it impossible to remain a bystander. There’ll be no sitting on the fence in this theological debate.

(Though The Bishop’s Son is the second book in the Amish of Bee County series, you’ll have no difficulty if you haven’t read the first title, The Beekeeper’s Son.)

[Kathleen E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wednesday, September 9, 2015
The Bishop's Son by Kelly Irvin, © 2015
Book 2 in the Amish of Bee County series

This story is going to give you a lot of food for thought, whether Amish or Englischer, you will not passively read Leila Lantz's story. Would you choose differently for her? Would you wonder if she chose from her heart, from a need to choose a decision, or from knowing God's exact plan for her?

So if you’re serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective. ~ Colossians 3:1, 2 (The Message)

I got tugged at, even near the end, wondering if Leila was going to change direction after she had professed her intention. A peace that passes all understanding, a surety that we belong to the One who has claimed us as His own.

How do we leave home to go home?

Leaving childhood behind, entering adulthood, making future plans that encompass more than herself, Leila Lantz has new beginnings. Helping her family, making a way for future links with other young women, Leila is given permission to take a job in town. She is an inspiration to one young father as he asks how to care for his daughter. With wise counsel and even a hand in a new perspective for him, Leila sets his life on a new course. A young couple, torn between honoring their family in finishing high school and caring for their young son, Leila is a true friend and a strong foundation in hope. Cousins Jesse and Will bid for her hand and her heart. Decisions they make wrap around her heart as she finds what is her true course.

Kelly Irvin is a strong writer. Both of these first two stories could be read as stand-alones but you will enjoy getting to meet the surrounding families as they meld their lives together. Mordecai King, his sister, Susan, and his son Phineas, are favorites in my view, and I hope to find them interspersed in book 3, The Saddle Maker's Son, releasing in June of 2016.

***Thank you to author Kelly Irvin and to Zondervan/HarperCollins for sending me a copy of The Bishop's Son to review. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***

[Janka H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

How to choose when both of the choices are good and honest ones?

Leila Lantz is confused. Jesse Glick is somehow interested, she can feels it. But he is "hot and cold" towards her, as he is frozen in the place of uncertainty. But this is not YA novel and Jesse is not torn because of the immature reasoning. No, he is facing the very real change in his heart - towards the God´s will, he is sure of it. But also towards shunning from his community. Should he continue to court Leila and take her with him, if this means taking her from all she has ever known?
Will Glick is also interested in Leila. He loves his cousin Jesse, too, and knows about his intentions. His heart is torn, but he is decided to take the honest approach.
The decisions are not easy. How to recognize God´s will and His plan? And if one knows, makes this knowledge the things easier for them and their families?

This is beautifully written novel about following God. And the prices to be paid because of this following.
The conflict/plot is also one of the most fresh and interesting I have read from the Christian fiction author in the months! Leave it to Kelly Irvin to take honest, refreshing and truly conflicting conflict! Just for the idea alone the novel is worth reading. I bet you will debate with the heroes about how to decide, what to choose and for whom! This is what I call THE food for thought. It also made me to re-evaluate the way I live my faith once again!

But back to the novel.

Unfortunately, the truly fascinating conflict of the choice is much stronger than the romantic tension and the choice in the romantic meaning. I somehow feel that the great battle of ideas very sharply accelerated the actual acquaintance with the hearts. Having the right idea doesn´t mean the two are meant to be together! But this might be because I personally would made different choices than the heroine :)

I really, really recommend this book. This is not a chocolate candy, so it may leave you with a more conflicted aftertaste than more all-pleasing book would have left. But it will revive and awaken your senses and reach the place that no chocolate candy can refill - your soul. Read this.

[June Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second installment in the author's 'The Amish of Bee's County' series. I did not read the first book, 'The Beekeeper's Son', but I didn't feel it hindered my understanding of this story as the author did an excellent job of introducing the characters and community early on in this book.

Leila Lantz is the main character of this story, and she is torn between two cousins, Jesse and Will, who are both interested in courting her. This is not her only challenge, however.

Leila is not fully ready to commit to being baptized in the Amish faith. She questions many of the community's practices such as silent prayer, not sharing their faith in words with others, etc. Throughout the story Leila meets obstacles and challenges head-on--something I respect in book characters. There are very strong religious themes running throughout this book.

At the end of the story when Leila is making some life-changing decisions which will affect her future and the future of her family of origin, she seems to lose her desire to do what she thinks is right. I felt Leila got pushed around a little bit by someone who was negatively affected by her decisions. (I don't want to spoil the story for you, so I am being purposefully vague). I was surprised by her change of attitude after all she had dealt with and overcome during the plot.

Kelly Irvin's writing style is warm and engaging. She creates characters with great depth. Truthfully, I had trouble setting the book aside to take care of other tasks I needed to attend to (even though I wish I could read for pleasure all day long!). I will look forward to reading more of Ms. Irvin's books in the future.

This book is recommended for fans of Amish and historical fiction, clean fiction, religious fiction, and inspirational romance.

NOTE FROM REVIEWER: I was given a paperback copy of this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers review program in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own. I was not compensated in any manner for posting my review here or on any other site.

###################

[Tina Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesse Glick has a reputation, as we English call it, to uphold to since his father is the Amish Bishop of a small Amish community in Beeville, Texas. Jesse is struggling with his faith, but he is still in his rumspringa, running around time for Amish teenagers to decide if they want to join their church or go English or some just go explore and then come back to be baptized into their church.
Which way of life will Jesse choose?

Leila Lantz is also Amish and in her rumspringa. She and her family moved to Beeville, Texas from Tennessee a year and six months ago, with her mother being a widow. Now her mother is getting married and Leila is struggling with how she feels about her mother's new husband, but also normal young women worries about their life. Like who will I marry? Do I want to marry? Do I want to join the church? Is there something English I want to experience, but not get in trouble for experiencing it?

Leila had a love at first sight since she's meet Jesse, but he hasn't acted on this? Nor offered her buggy rides home from singings. Should she wait on Jesse? Is there someone else who likes Leila?

Will there be a courtship started by Leila and Jesse by the end of "The Bishop's Son"? That my friends will be up to you to find out by reading the book.

Kelly Irvin has it all going on in her book, the details, the characters, the suspense, and more. I was on the edge of my seat while I was reading "The Bishop's Son". I can not wait for the third book in this series to be released by Kelly in 2016 and I love the title to it, too. "The Saddle Maker's Son"



I received a free kindle copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
Leila Lantz has been in love with Jesse Glick from the day she first saw him at his father's store, but she can't make sense of his intentions. One day he wants to come courting, the next he seems to be putting distance between them.

Jesse may be the bishop's son, but his faith has been wavering of late. If he is so unsure, is it fair to give Leila false hope for a future he doubts he can provide?

Then there's Will, Jesse's cousin. He has been trying to keep his feelings for Leila a secret, but he also knows Jesse is wrestling with his faith. Would declaring his feelings for Leila be in her best interest or simply serving his own selfish desires?

Leila knows she can choose Will and be secure in her own future. But when her hearat speaks, it's Jesse's name she hears. When will God make His will known to her? could leaving everything she knows--even her own faith--be a part of God's plan?


MY REVIEW
Another great story in this series and Kelly does a wonderful job of telling it. She keeps you guessing as to which way Leila will go. Kelly also shows the deep decisions one has to struggle with in wanting to leave the Amish, even more so than an Englischer wanting to join the Amish. A very touching story I'm sure you will enjoy. After reading this story, think about everything you read and think about whether you would have made the same decisions as Jesse or Leila. I hope there will be more books to come in this series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free BookLook Bloggers a book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bishop's Son is my first book by Kelly Irvin and I throughly enjoyed it. This is the second in a series but can be read as a standalone. I loved the characters, the story itself and how reading it made me feel. Amish are raised to set themselves apart from the rest of the world. When they begin associating with the English community during their teenage "running around years" it gives them a chance to see how others live. Jesse gets acquainted with a couple of teenagers that draw him into their church youth group. He sees the pure joy on their faces as they worship and pray out loud. Their goal is to go out and evangelize others like Jesus commanded in the Bible. This is seen as prideful in the Amish Church. Jesse is torn between his Amish Family and his new Church Family. He hides what he is doing from everyone except his cousin Will, who is sworn to secrecy. Leila is the young Amish girl that both Jesse and Will are interested in to court and possibly marry. Her heart tells her Jesse but her head tells her Will. Choosing Jesse with his desire to tell others about Jesus means giving up her family and her Amish way of life. Choosing Will allows her to stay with the Amish and remain in good stead with her family. Such hard choices for Jesse and Leila to make.
I really enjoyed the interaction and love shown to some of the side characters that added spice to the story. With simple statements and caring it brought some into the fold of their evangelistic efforts. But in the end what does Jesse, and Leila choose? And how does it affect Will?
A wonderful heartwarming story that kept me reading into the wee hours of the morning.

[Kym McNabney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing or not I review each book I read, so I know it was in error that I somehow missed reviewing THE BISHOP’S SON (THE AMISH OF BEE COUNTY) by KELLY IRVIN. I am a HUGE fan of MS IRVIN’S in spite of the fact that I am not an Amish reading fan.

So with that said, and it having been several books that I have read since then, I can only tell you that I do recall loving it. That the writing is great, the plot excellent, and characters you will fall in love with. All common of MS IRVIN’S writing.

From the back cover:

Two men offer Leila two very different futures. Will she choose with her heart or with her faith?

Leila Lantz has been in love with Jesse Glick from the day she first saw him at his father’s store, but she can’t make sense of his intentions. One day he wants to come courting, the next he seems to be putting distance between them.

Jesse may be the bishop’s son, but his faith has been wavering of late. If he is so unsure, is it fair to give Leila false hope for a future he doubts he can provide?

Then there’s Will, Jesse’s cousin. He has been trying to keep his feelings for Leila a secret, but he also knows Jesse is wrestling with his faith. Would declaring his feelings for Leila be in her best interest or simply serving his own selfish desires?

Leila knows she can choose Will and be secure in her own future. But when her heart speaks, it’s Jesse’s name she hears. When will God make His will known to her? Could leaving everything she knows—even her own faith—be a part of God’s plan?

[Hayleigh S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

( 3.75 )
This book was an emotional rollercoaster. Not a knockout like The Beekeepers Son was, but still good.
I legit teared up on page 3 because Deborah was pregnant. I just love them two so much, they give me so much joy.
Ok so onto the actual story haha.
Things I liked: I didn't know until the last 30 pages who/what she was going to choose. I wasn't super surprised by her choice, but it was pretty good. I liked the emphasis on witnessing and really challenging Leila to think. I loved seeing Rory turn from the shallow girl into a lady. I loved seeing Dwayne grow up, like a total tailspin. I also loved seeing Jesse be truly challenged by his faith. It was intriguing. I loved seeing Deborah and Phineas. I loved seeing Phineas character development show, he's grown so much. He kind of became a mentor. Very wise. Also Deborah is so sweet and BABY TIMOTHY. I'm so. I can't.
Thing I didn't like: I hated how Jesse was acting at first. He was so on and off, I really didn't like him at first. He was just pushing her too far and not being a gentleman. Also, I hated how Leila strung Will along. Like strung him along. Also, she just was way too into physical attraction for my taste. Letting Jesse kiss her on the first Date, then asking Will to dance with her. Just low standards. I do feel like Leila was not a very great female character.
Overall a good book, I read it in one day because the mystery was intriguing, but the characters could've used some work. I put this book brought the gauntlet because I know how good Kelly Irvin can write.

[Maryann Skaritka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelly Irvin has written another wonderful Amish story. She has become one of my favorite Amish authors. This is the second book in the Amish of Bee County and although I did not read the first book I felt perfectly at home with the characters.

Leila Lantz is adjusting to life in Texas having moved from Tennessee after her widowed mothers marriage to Mordecai King.

Jessie Glick is the bishops son. He is still experiencing a drawn out rumspringa and seems drawn to the English world. He has a yearning inside of him to not just be an example of faith in God as his Amish beliefs tell him. He knows not to be prideful or bring attention to himself. He feels there is more to life that is missing and he desires to read and study the bible and to tell others about God as his English friends do.

Will is Jesse's cousin. He is rooted firmly and strongly in the Amish faith and is not pleased that Jesse might leave the faith. He also tries to court Leila.

Leila is friends with Rory. She is a young English girl who is married to Dwayne, her high school sweetheart. They have a young son Trevor. They are both still in high school and way too young and immature to be parents.

Rory helps Leila gets a job at the local day care so she can help her family out financially .

This story deals with lots of emotional turmoil and sacrifice. Can you give up all you have ever known to follow a different path you believe that God has for your life? This book will truly speak to your heart.

[Rachel Dodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an interesting Amish fiction. I have always enjoyed Amish fiction, but this one was very different from anything I have read. I had never read a book where the plot of the story focused on the choices Amish young people must make while choosing to follow (or not follow) their faith.

This book is also a story of salvation and God's grace. The Bishop's Son is book two in the Amish of Bee County series. I have not read the first book and had no trouble following this book. It reads just fine as a stand alone.

I was very impressed by this book. I have always loved Amish fiction and this one didn't disappoint. I really enjoyed the plot of the story. It was different from any other Amish book I have read and I really liked the change. Leila and Jesse and Will all had different struggles they had to deal with and they each had their own way of dealing with them. I enjoyed how much Kelly used this book to speak of God's grace and the importance of sharing our faith with others. It's not something you would find in your normal Amish fiction but, it was one of the things I enjoyed most about the book. The writing is great and I was never bored while reading. I was interested all the way to the end.

This book was such a great read. I can't wait to read the next in the series.

I was blessed with this book from the Fiction Guild in exchange for my review. A positive review was not required.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK


Leila Lantz has a difficult decision to make. Two young men, Jesse, and Will (Jesse's cousin) want her love and commitment. But the two offer entirely different lifestyles for Leila. Jesse is struggling with his faith, and not so sure he is ready for a lifetime commitment, but Leila has loved him since the first time she saw him. And Will, well he is more settled and knows what he wants to do with his life, but keeps his feelings for Leila to himself because he doesn't want to hurt his cousin Jesse. How will this author untangle this mess of relationships for Leila?

I really like the way Kelly Irvin writes Amish fiction. She adds a unique twist to her stories that make them very interesting and entertaining. Leila has some tough decisions to make, but I liked that. Dealing with real life situations, even among the Amish faith helps to realize that we all have problems that we must surrender to the Lord. And this book will have you taking a closer look at your own faith. It was nice visiting characters from book one, and I am excited to read book three when it hits the shelves. If you are looking for a good clean book for enjoyment, this is a wonderful one to pick up!


I received this book from BookLook Bloggers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I jumped at the chance to read and review this book when I saw it. I had read the first book in this series and had enjoyed that one. I was not dissapointed. This one had great characters that were developed enough to feel like they were real people with challenges they were facing. Leila is the younger sister of the main character in the first book. It was fun to get to revisit those characters and see how their story developed. Leila is courted by two men in a somewhat haphazard way and she is confused by their behavior and also scared by what choosing either of them would mean for her. She begins to sort out what is going on and her feelings about the changes that face her depending on what choices she makes. I didn't know which choice she would make until the end so it was nice that it wasn't totally predictable. Also, I do have somewhat mixed feelings about her choice. Perhaps because it may not have been the choice I would have made. It is always difficult when either choice has positives and negatives. It is a book I have continued to think about a few days after finishing. I made me think about why certain aspects bothered me or made me cringe. I think that is the sign of a well told tale. Life is never straight forward and no one lives happily ever after like a fairy tale. Challenges and trials are a part of life.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Amish stories and was thrilled when I received a copy of this book. I have read the author's previous book in this series, so I anxious to see how this story would flow. The story is about two young people that each face a decision that causes change in all areas of their life. Leila will find that two men have captured her heart. Who will she go with? Sometimes when we are in love, we don't see their flaws. We try to ignore them and subsequently our decision can have consequences that will be hard to overcome.

What if you were The Bishop's son and you felt your faith wavering ? Would you seek guidance or walk away? Jesse will make that difficult choice and many others . The story weaves through the trails of making hard decisions and waiting on God to direct their path. Do we wrestle with waiting for an answer from God? I won't tell you what the characters decide, but I will say that the author tackles difficult subjects with wisdom that keeps the reader glued to the story.

Take a journey to The Amish of Bee County as these young people make choices that may not be right, but they know that they have family, the community and their faith to guide them.

I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild group which I am a member of for an honest review.

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in The Amish of Bee County Series by Kelly Irvin "The Bishop's Son"
Leila Lantz 's heart says Jesse Glick the Bishops son is the one for her and has been since the very first day she saw him but her brain is saying something entirely different.
Jessie knows he can have a happy life with Leila but can he ignore the pull he has in his own heart into the outside world and his newfound way of faith.
Then there is Will Jesse's cousin who has setback and never let his feelings for Leila show can he keep quiet much more?
Does Leila follow her heart or faith? Does Will set up and let her know he cares and that makes a difference? Will Jesse choose his family or the world?
Kelly has done an Amazing job with book 2 just as she did Book 1. It's amazing to me to see the struggles on both the child's part and the parents part as they navigate through this time between choosing which path to take. Life is not easy but with faith and trust we can trust it will be at least tolerable. Kelly gives a glimpse into this Amish time period and the decisions they must face. This is a wonderful book and I reccomend it.

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating and Poignant!
That's the best description I can think of.
The storyline, the characters and even the subplots were so well
written that it was hard for me to put this book down.

I quickly became just as torn as Leila when she was being courted by both Jessie, the Bishop's son and his cousin Will.
One of the sweetest moments in the book was the dance shared between Leila and Will. They didn't know how to dance, obviously and what I thought would be an awkward moment was somehow quite sweet. This is one of the many tender moments in this fantastic book.

It's a story of love and faith. I found myself thinking of the characters long after I finished the book.
I'm quickly becoming a fan of Kelly Irvin and can't wait to read more of her work.

This a 5 star book.
I received this book through the Fiction Guild in exchane for an honest review.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a wonderful read. 3 young people trying to decide what they want. Jesse like Leila, but he is deciding during his rumspringa if he want to stay Amish or join his English friends and join their church. But with likely Leila and not wanting to take her away from his family because if he doesn't join the Amish community they will not be able to see their families. Jesse cousin Will also likes Leila and tries to make her stay away from him. But Leila go on one courting date with Jesse and finds that she likes him more than Will and goes by chance to one of the church prayers groups on Weds and feel good about it but also wrong. He can't get the same feelings for Will as she does for Jesse and has to make the ultimate choice when Jesse leaves the community. I loved this story. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a wonderful read.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story, getting to know Will, Jesse, and Leila, not to mention seeing more of the other characters in the first book in the series, The Beekeeper's Son. Fans will enjoy this book, learning more about the Amish settlement in the heat of southern Texas. Jesse is struggling with his faith, but still I identified with him. Leila was a sweet heroine, willing to help out with her family by taking care of Englischer's babies. If you like Amish fiction, or Kelly Irvin's books, you'll want to read THE BISHOP'S SON.

The story was well-written and engaging. I liked this one the best in the series, as I could identify with these characters and cared for them. It was still a quiet, slow book, one that could easily be put down and read slowly. Not one that I buzz through in a rush because I can't put it down. Recommended.