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Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen #1
Forbidden Gift: An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel
What if your greatest passion was a threat to all of your family?
Johanna Yoder is forbidden from writing by the bishop of her Amish community. But she can’t keep the words from pouring out. When the bishop discovers she’s been writing under a pseudonym for a local newspaper, she faces an ultimatum that could crush her. When hidden secrets come into the light, Johanna is left with a decision that could tear her Amish community apart.
Judah Barton—a cutthroat news reporter—doesn’t care who he steps on while making his way to the top. As his newspaper spirals towards bankruptcy, Judah is left scrambling for answers. He’ll do whatever it takes to help his editor save the paper, but a surprising encounter with a spirited Amish writer changes everything.
Johanna Yoder is forbidden from writing by the bishop of her Amish community. But she can’t keep the words from pouring out. When the bishop discovers she’s been writing under a pseudonym for a local newspaper, she faces an ultimatum that could crush her. When hidden secrets come into the light, Johanna is left with a decision that could tear her Amish community apart.
Judah Barton—a cutthroat news reporter—doesn’t care who he steps on while making his way to the top. As his newspaper spirals towards bankruptcy, Judah is left scrambling for answers. He’ll do whatever it takes to help his editor save the paper, but a surprising encounter with a spirited Amish writer changes everything.
- GenresAmishSpirituality
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2021
30 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Debra Torres
15 books112 followersDebra Torres is an author of inspirational Amish fiction.
She writes clean romance for readers looking for relatable characters dealing with raw and real-life issues. The Amish books in her series are touching stories of self-discovery, forgiveness, and healing set in a small Amish community in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
For eleven years, Debra and her family lived in rural Northwestern Pennsylvania, where she was able to observe the Amish in grocery stores—and the “buggy lanes.” For several of these years, Debra and her family lived on a twenty-nine-acre farm sharing the land with a herd of white-face beef cows, two carrot-loving horses, and a barn full of cats. Here, Debra kept a large “kitchen” garden and learned from locals how to “put up” her produce.
She holds a BA in Communication and a MA in Journalism. While in graduate school, Debra was editor-in-chief of two university newspapers.
Debra and her writer husband, live in Virginia,
and have five wonderfully gifted children.
She writes clean romance for readers looking for relatable characters dealing with raw and real-life issues. The Amish books in her series are touching stories of self-discovery, forgiveness, and healing set in a small Amish community in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
For eleven years, Debra and her family lived in rural Northwestern Pennsylvania, where she was able to observe the Amish in grocery stores—and the “buggy lanes.” For several of these years, Debra and her family lived on a twenty-nine-acre farm sharing the land with a herd of white-face beef cows, two carrot-loving horses, and a barn full of cats. Here, Debra kept a large “kitchen” garden and learned from locals how to “put up” her produce.
She holds a BA in Communication and a MA in Journalism. While in graduate school, Debra was editor-in-chief of two university newspapers.
Debra and her writer husband, live in Virginia,
and have five wonderfully gifted children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 6, 2021
Forbidden Gift is an intriguing story that lightly mixes several genres, so there’s a little something for everyone. There’s an Amish fiction element but also an equal focus on the non-Amish characters. Several different people are trying to solve a couple of different mysteries (that may be related – or maybe not), and a light romance thread promises to be developed even more in the next books of the series. There’s even a light suspense element, especially toward the last 1/4 of the book. And weaving through it all is a sweet gospel message of restoration, forgiveness and redemption.
Johanna Yoder loves to write, as did her grandmother before her, but their strict bishop banned creative & personal writing (journals, etc.) when Johanna’s Mammi Miriam was a young woman & still strongly enforces it. Though Johanna managed to evade Bishop Zook’s notice for a time and write popular columns for the local newspaper under an assumed name, she is forced to quit when he discovers her secret. Enter Judah Barton, an eager young reporter sent by his editor to track down the elusive author & beg her to come back in a desperate attempt to save the newspaper.
Their first encounter sets in motion a chain of events that brings decades-long mysteries & wrongs to light and also lays the foundation for the healing that waits in the wings. I really enjoyed both of these characters and how, though they come from very different backgrounds, they share many of the same struggles and strengths. The author does a great job of making you truly care what happens to Johanna and Judah, as well as other great secondary characters like Bert & Consuela & Hilton & Gideon. Their spiritual journeys unfold naturally, in ways organic to each character, and never feel forced or trite. Instead, I found myself quite touched by Johanna’s emotional surrender to God’s plan and by the restoration and salvation that other characters experience on these pages – and by the characters who help bring those moments about.
While I loved the characters, it took me a bit longer to become solidly invested in the plot, but once I did I had to read the rest as quickly as possible. As the suspense ramps up in the last part of the book, my interest level piqued even more and there were a couple of moments when I held my breath or gasped out loud at a twist I wasn’t expecting. I will warn you that, while the main storylines have resolution by the end of Forbidden Gift, there are also several threads that wait to be told in future books. It’s not a cliffhanger, per se, but some loose ends are definitely left loose haha.
Bottom Line: Forbidden Gift is a charming debut novel perfect for fans of Shelley Shepard Gray & Rachel J. Good. Part Amish fiction, part mystery/suspense, part light romance – it all adds up to a book full of wonderful & layered characters who draw you in to the outcome of their joined stories. The gospel is clearly but gently & naturally presented, and I never felt like we stopped the story for a sermon. I’m eager to read the next book to see where the mystery/suspense & romance threads go from here!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Johanna Yoder loves to write, as did her grandmother before her, but their strict bishop banned creative & personal writing (journals, etc.) when Johanna’s Mammi Miriam was a young woman & still strongly enforces it. Though Johanna managed to evade Bishop Zook’s notice for a time and write popular columns for the local newspaper under an assumed name, she is forced to quit when he discovers her secret. Enter Judah Barton, an eager young reporter sent by his editor to track down the elusive author & beg her to come back in a desperate attempt to save the newspaper.
Their first encounter sets in motion a chain of events that brings decades-long mysteries & wrongs to light and also lays the foundation for the healing that waits in the wings. I really enjoyed both of these characters and how, though they come from very different backgrounds, they share many of the same struggles and strengths. The author does a great job of making you truly care what happens to Johanna and Judah, as well as other great secondary characters like Bert & Consuela & Hilton & Gideon. Their spiritual journeys unfold naturally, in ways organic to each character, and never feel forced or trite. Instead, I found myself quite touched by Johanna’s emotional surrender to God’s plan and by the restoration and salvation that other characters experience on these pages – and by the characters who help bring those moments about.
While I loved the characters, it took me a bit longer to become solidly invested in the plot, but once I did I had to read the rest as quickly as possible. As the suspense ramps up in the last part of the book, my interest level piqued even more and there were a couple of moments when I held my breath or gasped out loud at a twist I wasn’t expecting. I will warn you that, while the main storylines have resolution by the end of Forbidden Gift, there are also several threads that wait to be told in future books. It’s not a cliffhanger, per se, but some loose ends are definitely left loose haha.
Bottom Line: Forbidden Gift is a charming debut novel perfect for fans of Shelley Shepard Gray & Rachel J. Good. Part Amish fiction, part mystery/suspense, part light romance – it all adds up to a book full of wonderful & layered characters who draw you in to the outcome of their joined stories. The gospel is clearly but gently & naturally presented, and I never felt like we stopped the story for a sermon. I’m eager to read the next book to see where the mystery/suspense & romance threads go from here!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
June 19, 2021
This book pulled me in from chapter one. There are so many wonderful aspects to the story that I don't know where to start. There were several unexpected developments and lots of suspense and action. The characters seemed human and real (and sometimes raw). There were broken family relationships that needing mending, as the characters grew and changed. I highly recommend!
I loved this book and am excited that there will be more in the series!
I loved this book and am excited that there will be more in the series!
May 29, 2021
Debra Torres is a new author to me and I will tell you I thoroughly enjoyed her book! This book will bring you excitement and keep you on the edge of your seat. I could not put it down, read it in two days.
This book takes a look at Joanna's love of writing but it is forbidden by the Bishop in her community. How she had to deal with the decision on what is best for her and her family. I truly felt for struggles. Sometimes in life you find yourself between a rock and a hard place. All you can really do is turn to the Lord and follow your heart.
I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary PDF of "Forbidden Gift" by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book takes a look at Joanna's love of writing but it is forbidden by the Bishop in her community. How she had to deal with the decision on what is best for her and her family. I truly felt for struggles. Sometimes in life you find yourself between a rock and a hard place. All you can really do is turn to the Lord and follow your heart.
I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary PDF of "Forbidden Gift" by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2022
Forbidden Gift is a very inspiring story written by Debra Torres in her series Willow Brook Secrets of the Pen series. This is the first story in the series. I enjoyed getting to know Johanna and Judah' stories. The secrets found within this story are jaw dropping and life changing. There is a bishop that has taken his position through cheating and it just gets better when he rides hard on the people of the community. When Joanna's secret is discovered he places her under the bann and threatens her families security within the community. Judah discovers who Johanna really is and saves her life a few times but when he discovers some hidden information he starts to set things right. Such a heartwarming story as it all plays out. I am anxious to read the second book in this series to see where the cliffhanger leads next.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
May 19, 2021
This was my first time diving into Amish fiction and it was a treat! 'The Forbidden Gift' is a story of faith, mystery, honesty, and touching relationships. I found myself rooting for almost all of the characters, each of their plots unique. I especially loved the character of Judah and his growth throughout the story and the friendship he forms with Gideon. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Disclaimer: I have received an ARC from the publisher. The comments and opinions above are entirely my own.
Disclaimer: I have received an ARC from the publisher. The comments and opinions above are entirely my own.
May 29, 2021
The Forbidden Gift
by:
Debra Torres
Johanna has a passion for writing & secretly writes a column
for the local newspaper, using the pen name Ima Righter. Being Amish, writing was forbidden long ago by the harsh, unyeilding bishop & Johnanna is persuaded to give up her love of writing.
After Ima Righter suddenly stops her column, newspaper subscribers & advertisers quickly drop off, puting the paper in jeopardy of closing. Judah, a columnist, is immediately sent out to find & convince Ima to restart her column.
Not only does Judah find Johanna, but he saves her life after she falls into the river & is nearly drowned. Judah also discovers the bishop isn't who he pretends to be & is hiding a life of crime living within the Amish community.
Debra Torres has done an incredible job of drawing the reader in, holding their attention, all the while keeping a fast paced story line that zigs & zags & keeping the reader guessing for the entire ride.
Love, heartache, obeying God's leading & ultimate forgiveness are some of what is taken away in this amazing book. A definite must read!
I received an advanced copy of this book by the publishers, with no expectations made upon me. All comments are strictly my own.
~Darlene Kay~
by:
Debra Torres
Johanna has a passion for writing & secretly writes a column
for the local newspaper, using the pen name Ima Righter. Being Amish, writing was forbidden long ago by the harsh, unyeilding bishop & Johnanna is persuaded to give up her love of writing.
After Ima Righter suddenly stops her column, newspaper subscribers & advertisers quickly drop off, puting the paper in jeopardy of closing. Judah, a columnist, is immediately sent out to find & convince Ima to restart her column.
Not only does Judah find Johanna, but he saves her life after she falls into the river & is nearly drowned. Judah also discovers the bishop isn't who he pretends to be & is hiding a life of crime living within the Amish community.
Debra Torres has done an incredible job of drawing the reader in, holding their attention, all the while keeping a fast paced story line that zigs & zags & keeping the reader guessing for the entire ride.
Love, heartache, obeying God's leading & ultimate forgiveness are some of what is taken away in this amazing book. A definite must read!
I received an advanced copy of this book by the publishers, with no expectations made upon me. All comments are strictly my own.
~Darlene Kay~
May 20, 2021
Fabulous
This book has it all! She was on it! The characters were in tune with each other. I loved the POV. I liked how it flowed together and the overall angst and how the drama went and how the unexpected was happening.
This book has it all! She was on it! The characters were in tune with each other. I loved the POV. I liked how it flowed together and the overall angst and how the drama went and how the unexpected was happening.
January 30, 2022
The Forbidden Gift is Book 1 in the Secrets Willow Brook Series Secrets of the Pen
This also is Debra Torres first Amish Fiction Book and I am happy to say it’s extremely good. It has everything a good book should have, mystery, excitement, love, faith, and commpassion. It blends the two worlds of the Amish and the English seamlessly and shows that the worlds really are not that far apart and can work together for the best if we want and believe in it enough.
A mothers love, a daughters strength and a son’s past work through many Obstacles to find the path that God has planned for them and in the process learn many life lessons that shake the foundation along the way.
This is such a wonderful book and I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series. I really want to see what happens with these characters and where theirs paths lead them. Don’t miss your change to read this book. I know you will love it and this new author.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and I can assure you everything I have said is true. Please do yourself a favor and read this book.
This also is Debra Torres first Amish Fiction Book and I am happy to say it’s extremely good. It has everything a good book should have, mystery, excitement, love, faith, and commpassion. It blends the two worlds of the Amish and the English seamlessly and shows that the worlds really are not that far apart and can work together for the best if we want and believe in it enough.
A mothers love, a daughters strength and a son’s past work through many Obstacles to find the path that God has planned for them and in the process learn many life lessons that shake the foundation along the way.
This is such a wonderful book and I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series. I really want to see what happens with these characters and where theirs paths lead them. Don’t miss your change to read this book. I know you will love it and this new author.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and I can assure you everything I have said is true. Please do yourself a favor and read this book.
May 25, 2021
This story opened with Johanna wrestling with her desires and beliefs. I was immediately drawn to this character on several levels, especially her desire to write, which has been forbidden. I liked her use of the Amish language and it was weaved well into this story giving it an authentic feel, and showing the writer knew her subject well.
From there on the story pulled me in as you meet Judah, an enterprising journalist who wants advancement, but faces a mysterious columnist who seems to be his only competition. He is charged with finding Ima Righter, (loved this pen name!) much to his dismay, and now his job hinges on it.
Johanna faces discipline from her Bishop when he finds she had been writing and she is put under a 'bann'. My heart ached for her as she is cut off from her family support, yet, she is practical and works on putting things right. But it goes from bad to worse, including being rescued by Judah.
Gideon, a wise Amish man, was someone I would love to meet and became Judah's guiding light in lieu of losing his father. Bertram, an unlikely ally, helps Judah try to save Johanna while protecting her secret. It is a plot that twists and turns, keeping me up until 1:00 in the morning!
I enjoyed almost tasting the Amish dishes described by Johanna. I felt the deep love and kinship of the Amish community as well as the outside community that was trying to help. This is a satisfying story on so many levels. I have read a lot of romances, but this had more than romance. There was spiritual depth and human struggle that gave it depth and made these characters real. Like when Johanna is given the order to marry a man who will decidedly not be kind to her, she decides to follow what she thinks God's will is to save her family. Showing her integrity, selflessness, and faith.
Overall, I felt this was a great story done with a true writer's heart. It definitely left me wanting more and wondering.......
I received an ARC of this story with nothing asked in return and decided it was deserving of my honest and true opinion.
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Delete
From there on the story pulled me in as you meet Judah, an enterprising journalist who wants advancement, but faces a mysterious columnist who seems to be his only competition. He is charged with finding Ima Righter, (loved this pen name!) much to his dismay, and now his job hinges on it.
Johanna faces discipline from her Bishop when he finds she had been writing and she is put under a 'bann'. My heart ached for her as she is cut off from her family support, yet, she is practical and works on putting things right. But it goes from bad to worse, including being rescued by Judah.
Gideon, a wise Amish man, was someone I would love to meet and became Judah's guiding light in lieu of losing his father. Bertram, an unlikely ally, helps Judah try to save Johanna while protecting her secret. It is a plot that twists and turns, keeping me up until 1:00 in the morning!
I enjoyed almost tasting the Amish dishes described by Johanna. I felt the deep love and kinship of the Amish community as well as the outside community that was trying to help. This is a satisfying story on so many levels. I have read a lot of romances, but this had more than romance. There was spiritual depth and human struggle that gave it depth and made these characters real. Like when Johanna is given the order to marry a man who will decidedly not be kind to her, she decides to follow what she thinks God's will is to save her family. Showing her integrity, selflessness, and faith.
Overall, I felt this was a great story done with a true writer's heart. It definitely left me wanting more and wondering.......
I received an ARC of this story with nothing asked in return and decided it was deserving of my honest and true opinion.
Edit
Delete
May 30, 2021
Forbidden Gift by Debra Torres
Secrets of the Pen Book 1
What if your greatest passion was a threat to all of your family?
Johanna Yoder is Amish. Forbidden from writing by her Bishop. But she can’t keep the words from pouring out, and when she’s found out she faces an ultimatum that will crush her, no matter which path she chooses. And when Johanna discovers a secret that could tear her family and entire community apart, she must make a choice that could turn her Amish district upside down.
Reporter Judah Barton is on a climb to the top of his world, and he doesn’t have a care for the people he crushes under his feet on the way up. But then his newspaper’s finances are hit hard, and the answers that were always so easy to find have vanished. He vows to help his editor save the paper, no matter the cost. But then he meets a young Amish writer, and his life takes a turn in a way he never could have imagined.
This is Johanna Yoder and Judah Barton's story.
Johanna
I couldn’t stop my hands from trembling. I hadn’t written a word in two weeks, and it was killing me.
Now I understood what life was like for Mammi,whose heart had always yearned for the pen. May she rest in peace.
Trying to settle my hands and my mind with hard work, I quickly finished giving all the calves on our veal farm their noon bottles.
Johanna has a passion for writing and secretly writes a column for the local newspaper, using the pen name Ima Righter.
Judah
The reporter in the cubical next to me thumped hard at his keyboard again. I got that he was under deadline, but he was the loudest one in the office and hard to block out.
To distract myself, I opened today’s newspaper. The “Best of Ima” section took me a little by surprise.
Never had I seen my editor, Hilton Hughes,reprint anything in the Mountain Laurel Star. To him, “old news” was not worth the ink.
I highly recommend
Forbidden Gift by Debra Torres is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I received a complimentary PDF of Forbidden Gift by the author.
Secrets of the Pen Book 1
What if your greatest passion was a threat to all of your family?
Johanna Yoder is Amish. Forbidden from writing by her Bishop. But she can’t keep the words from pouring out, and when she’s found out she faces an ultimatum that will crush her, no matter which path she chooses. And when Johanna discovers a secret that could tear her family and entire community apart, she must make a choice that could turn her Amish district upside down.
Reporter Judah Barton is on a climb to the top of his world, and he doesn’t have a care for the people he crushes under his feet on the way up. But then his newspaper’s finances are hit hard, and the answers that were always so easy to find have vanished. He vows to help his editor save the paper, no matter the cost. But then he meets a young Amish writer, and his life takes a turn in a way he never could have imagined.
This is Johanna Yoder and Judah Barton's story.
Johanna
I couldn’t stop my hands from trembling. I hadn’t written a word in two weeks, and it was killing me.
Now I understood what life was like for Mammi,whose heart had always yearned for the pen. May she rest in peace.
Trying to settle my hands and my mind with hard work, I quickly finished giving all the calves on our veal farm their noon bottles.
Johanna has a passion for writing and secretly writes a column for the local newspaper, using the pen name Ima Righter.
Judah
The reporter in the cubical next to me thumped hard at his keyboard again. I got that he was under deadline, but he was the loudest one in the office and hard to block out.
To distract myself, I opened today’s newspaper. The “Best of Ima” section took me a little by surprise.
Never had I seen my editor, Hilton Hughes,reprint anything in the Mountain Laurel Star. To him, “old news” was not worth the ink.
I highly recommend
Forbidden Gift by Debra Torres is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I received a complimentary PDF of Forbidden Gift by the author.
May 22, 2021
My first story from Author Debra Torres. It merits a 10 star. She has bind together a story full of all the elements in a perfect package that captivates you from each turn page that is worth devouring fast yet slow.
In the " Forbidden Gift" which is book 1 in the series you are following Johanna and Judah in a tale blended with mystery and secrets that will keep you in suspense to know why each detour has its answers. A story of Faith and Trust in God and the lesson of following ones dreams even if they lead to a better one. This story has it all.
Johanna a young Amish girl doing her hearts most passion of writing and the secret she has to keep it because of answers not yet given by a bishop who has more to keep secret than Johanna's writing for the newspaper.
Judah a selfish reporter that thought the story learns and changes in a way that one can follow it step by step instead of all at once. I really enjoyed that part.
This story will keep you hooked at each page and will bring a new feeling to mystery, Faith and the love of dreams in a surprising way. Not only was I hooked on this amazing storyline but I'm looking forward to more in the series as well as more writings from Author Debra Torres.
Highly recommended. I received a Complimentary e-book ARC from the author. My review is my own thoughts and I was not required of one.
In the " Forbidden Gift" which is book 1 in the series you are following Johanna and Judah in a tale blended with mystery and secrets that will keep you in suspense to know why each detour has its answers. A story of Faith and Trust in God and the lesson of following ones dreams even if they lead to a better one. This story has it all.
Johanna a young Amish girl doing her hearts most passion of writing and the secret she has to keep it because of answers not yet given by a bishop who has more to keep secret than Johanna's writing for the newspaper.
Judah a selfish reporter that thought the story learns and changes in a way that one can follow it step by step instead of all at once. I really enjoyed that part.
This story will keep you hooked at each page and will bring a new feeling to mystery, Faith and the love of dreams in a surprising way. Not only was I hooked on this amazing storyline but I'm looking forward to more in the series as well as more writings from Author Debra Torres.
Highly recommended. I received a Complimentary e-book ARC from the author. My review is my own thoughts and I was not required of one.
June 24, 2021
I've been a lifelong reader of Amish Christian Fiction and a devout Beverly Lewis fan. When hearing of Torres, I was thrilled and began reading the novel as soon as I could get it in my hands. Devouring it in three days, I found it to be heart-felt and completely gob smacking.
The entire novel was captivating and just got better and better. I'm still anticipating Johanna and Judah's love to unravel further as well as a revival between Judah and his mother. The inclusion of the journalism world was particularly endearing to me too. In fact, I'm just getting excited thinking about all this!
I could ramble on about every detail I loved and connected with in this story, because there was a lot to love. Instead, I want to compliment the way Torres unpacked the plot: in a mysterious manner that seemed to turn its genre on the head in all the best ways. The back-and-forth between Judah and Johanna's point of view was well-designed. Torres' writing is unique and engrossing. I can't wait for the series to continue!
The entire novel was captivating and just got better and better. I'm still anticipating Johanna and Judah's love to unravel further as well as a revival between Judah and his mother. The inclusion of the journalism world was particularly endearing to me too. In fact, I'm just getting excited thinking about all this!
I could ramble on about every detail I loved and connected with in this story, because there was a lot to love. Instead, I want to compliment the way Torres unpacked the plot: in a mysterious manner that seemed to turn its genre on the head in all the best ways. The back-and-forth between Judah and Johanna's point of view was well-designed. Torres' writing is unique and engrossing. I can't wait for the series to continue!
May 20, 2021
The Forbidden Gift is an engaging, suspenseful story that addresses deep spiritual themes readers will relate to. Torres has a deft touch with suspense and characterization. I loved how Johanna wrestled with the hard decision she had to make and that when she surrendered a precious gift for the sake of her family, God worked out his better plan for her life. Judah’s spiritual arc felt genuine and unforced, developing naturally in a gradual awakening to God through Judah’s own painful experiences and the witness of others. The secondary characters were also standouts, and the unexpected twists and turns of the story kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next up to the satisfying conclusion. Readers who are not yet familiar with Torres’s books will find The Forbidden Gift to be an excellent introduction, while those who have read her previous works will enjoy this foray into the Amish fiction genre. I highly recommend The Forbidden Gift!
May 15, 2022
Engaging story with Interesting Characters
I enjoyed this story and the characters very much and look forward to the second book in the series. I’ve read many Amish books, and Johanna is a standout in being a unique and original Amish character. Even though I usually enjoy my Amish books, often they are a little bit predictable. That was not the case with this book.
My only criticism is that the Kindle edition had some serious problems when reading it with white print on black background which is the way I normally read my Kindle books. The print was not consistently white —it was gray in many places, whole patches, or sometimes whole paragraphs except for one or two words. It made it difficult to read. I had to switch to black print on a lighter background which is not great on my eyes. If not for that, I would have had nothing but good things to say about the book.
I enjoyed this story and the characters very much and look forward to the second book in the series. I’ve read many Amish books, and Johanna is a standout in being a unique and original Amish character. Even though I usually enjoy my Amish books, often they are a little bit predictable. That was not the case with this book.
My only criticism is that the Kindle edition had some serious problems when reading it with white print on black background which is the way I normally read my Kindle books. The print was not consistently white —it was gray in many places, whole patches, or sometimes whole paragraphs except for one or two words. It made it difficult to read. I had to switch to black print on a lighter background which is not great on my eyes. If not for that, I would have had nothing but good things to say about the book.
May 18, 2021
Debra Torres is a new to me author and I will say that you will enjoy the journey she takes you on in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book The Forbidden Gift. She brings excitement, mystery and intrigue to her book and keeps you you guessing as she brings the Amish and English communities together through a local newspaper.
Johanna has inherited her grandmothers love of writing, but writing stories for the newspaper is forbidden in her Amish community by her Bishop. Why is he so opposed to her writing and so adamant that he is willing to place her under the Bann to get her stop? In order to find out the real reason why, you will need to pick up a copy of the book. Definitely keeps your interest as the story unfolds and you will not be disappointed.
I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest opinion and review from the author.
Johanna has inherited her grandmothers love of writing, but writing stories for the newspaper is forbidden in her Amish community by her Bishop. Why is he so opposed to her writing and so adamant that he is willing to place her under the Bann to get her stop? In order to find out the real reason why, you will need to pick up a copy of the book. Definitely keeps your interest as the story unfolds and you will not be disappointed.
I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest opinion and review from the author.
June 1, 2021
I just finished Forbidden Gift, book 1 of Willow Brook: Secrets of the Pen by Debra Torres. It’s a story about Johanna Yoder, an Amish maedel, who has been secretly writing for the local newspaper using the pseudonym of Ima Riter, until her Bishop forbids her to continue. Judah Barton, an Englischer, is a reporter for the paper and has been sent to find out who this person is and why she has stopped sending in articles. The book differed from most Amish books I have read but in an interesting and appealing way. I recommend this book to those who are looking for a change from the typical romance story. This one is filled with intrigue, suspense and is very captivating. Looking forward to the continuation of Johanna’s path in life in the next book.
September 19, 2022
This is a well written, suspenseful, page turning read that makes you feel like you’ve known the characters your whole life. I loved that the depth and details behind each character gave you just enough backstory to make you care, but was never overly descriptive or unnecessary. I’ve never read an Amish fiction book before, so it was interesting to learn about some Amish customs and see an Amish community come to life on the page. To the very end this book keeps you guessing about the outcome, it both delivers and leaves you wanting more.
Above all, I am so very proud of my mother, who is the author. Many little details lined up with experiences from my childhood, which made this a rewarding read in more ways than one.
Great job Mom, can’t wait to read the next one :)
Above all, I am so very proud of my mother, who is the author. Many little details lined up with experiences from my childhood, which made this a rewarding read in more ways than one.
Great job Mom, can’t wait to read the next one :)
September 6, 2022
“Sometimes you have to sacrifice the thing you love for the people you love.”
Wow! This book is written simply but powerfully. I raced through it in just two days because I HAD to know how Johanna would deal with her “forbidden gift.” I could identify with her yearning, no, her compulsion to write and process life through words. I admire the gift that skipped a generation, passed down from her grandmother, along with true saving faith. This is a beautiful story of sacrifice and forgiveness and redemption. I can’t wait to start reading its sequel (glad I bought both books at the same time!). I’m sure Judah’s story is going to have a happy ending somehow, too.
Wow! This book is written simply but powerfully. I raced through it in just two days because I HAD to know how Johanna would deal with her “forbidden gift.” I could identify with her yearning, no, her compulsion to write and process life through words. I admire the gift that skipped a generation, passed down from her grandmother, along with true saving faith. This is a beautiful story of sacrifice and forgiveness and redemption. I can’t wait to start reading its sequel (glad I bought both books at the same time!). I’m sure Judah’s story is going to have a happy ending somehow, too.
May 21, 2021
Debra Torres is a new author for me and this book will not be the last book I read from her! This story had me from the beginning and just couldn't put the book down. If you love reading Amish stories as much as I do, then I highly recommend Debra Torres!
This story really was intriguing and the characters showed so much faith and I my heart really went out for Johanna.
I cannot wait for the 2nd book in this series. I received an ARC copy from the author but was not persuaded to leave a positive review.
This story really was intriguing and the characters showed so much faith and I my heart really went out for Johanna.
I cannot wait for the 2nd book in this series. I received an ARC copy from the author but was not persuaded to leave a positive review.
June 20, 2021
I've always admire Debra Torres writings. Her words are articulately refine and she inspire me in many ways. This book, was my first read and from the very first page, I was hooked. Now I know the Amish community, the rules and the lifestyle of these people private people live somewhat unsettled. My favourite character definitely Johanna. Her love for writing, adding her beautiful soul and kind heart captivatingly. Excellent introduction, engaging characterisation and I strongly recommend you must grab one!
May 20, 2021
Fantastically woven words!
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this breakout Amish novel by Debra Torres. A fantastic storyline, characters with depth, twists & turns, and an ending I didn’t see coming, made it hard to put down. Just one more page turned into one more chapter time and again. I can’t wait for more from this author! Highly recommend.
I received a digital ARC from the author with no expectation in return. The above comments and opinions are my own.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this breakout Amish novel by Debra Torres. A fantastic storyline, characters with depth, twists & turns, and an ending I didn’t see coming, made it hard to put down. Just one more page turned into one more chapter time and again. I can’t wait for more from this author! Highly recommend.
I received a digital ARC from the author with no expectation in return. The above comments and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2021
First time I believe reading a book by this author and it was so good. Can't wait for the next book to come out. It's tough making decisions about something you love to do so much only to be told no or to stop all together. And secrets that can hurt and divide people. Hard decisions to be made. We all come to a cross road and if you want to know what this character does I encourage you to read this book.
July 5, 2021
Wonderful read.
Very interesting premise to this story. The author is new for me and her writing carries you from one scene to the next seamlessly. I do not want to delve further into the setup of the story. That is something I want you, the reader, to discover for yourself. I did see one "hole" in the story but just could not bring myself to deduct from the star rating because of it. I do recommend this book. Highly!
Very interesting premise to this story. The author is new for me and her writing carries you from one scene to the next seamlessly. I do not want to delve further into the setup of the story. That is something I want you, the reader, to discover for yourself. I did see one "hole" in the story but just could not bring myself to deduct from the star rating because of it. I do recommend this book. Highly!
May 18, 2021
This was the first book I’ve read by Debra Torres and it won’t be the last. The way she brings the Amish and English together is wonderful. It keeps you guessing and I didn’t see the end coming. I love reading newspapers from all over so this was a treat to read about a newspaper in the story.
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
November 14, 2021
Hidden Secrets Keep You Glued to the Pages
One of those books you just can't put down. When a young Amish woman follows her heart, instead of the rules, her life takes a challenging twist. You won't be sorry if you add this book to your to be read pile. Debra Torres does a wonderful job of making you feel like you are walking through the pages with her characters.
One of those books you just can't put down. When a young Amish woman follows her heart, instead of the rules, her life takes a challenging twist. You won't be sorry if you add this book to your to be read pile. Debra Torres does a wonderful job of making you feel like you are walking through the pages with her characters.
May 1, 2021
I want to say I have never sat and read a book as long as this one in just 2 days. This is a great mystery, love story. Full of twist and turns. I am ready for book #2. I was given and early readers copy and was not compensated for my review..
May 2, 2021
Ms. Torres has written a riveting book from beginning to end. The writing flows flawlessly and readers will be caught up in what will happen to Johanna and how the Bann affects the Amish. Buy this book if you like to read Amish fiction.
May 13, 2021
The Forbidden Gift, was my first experience reading Amish fiction. I enjoyed being educated and immersed in aspects of their culture. If you like stories of redemption, reconciliation, and suspense, I highly recommend this novel. Well done!
September 9, 2021
Enjoyed this book. Complete with family, friends, community, love & faith. Looking forward to Debra's second book in the Willow Brook series. :)
January 30, 2024
Wonderful book
I loved this book. I liked the way each character had their space. It was suspenseful and the last part kept me wanting to read more.
I loved this book. I liked the way each character had their space. It was suspenseful and the last part kept me wanting to read more.
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