Peace

The Secrets of Crittenden County #3.5

by Shelley Shepard Gray

After a year of secrets and scandal, will this Amish community finally find peace under the bright promise of Christmas?

Beth Byler has a secret. Ever since she met Englischer Chris Ellis while helping out at the Yellow Bird Inn, she can't stop thinking about him. She knows a relationship could never go anywhere—Chris was working undercover in Crittenden County as a DEA agent. That meant he faced danger daily and carried a gun, making him completely unsuitable for an Amish woman like herself. But she knew he felt the attraction, too. It was the reason he left so suddenly, promising never to see her again.

Then, three days before Christmas, while Beth is taking care of the inn, Chris returns. This time, he is bleeding and in need of a place to hide. Against her better judgment, Beth takes him in and tends to his wounds. She also promises to keep his presence a secret. Before long, it becomes clear that nothing between them has changed—a relationship is inevitable. But are they ready to sacrifice everything for this chance at love?

Genres: Amish, Christmas, Amish Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook

Unknown Binding

First published October 22, 2013

About the author

Librarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).

Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.

Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.

Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.


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Reviews

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a year of secrets and scandal, will this Amish community finally find peace under the bright promise of Christmas?

Beth Byler has a secret. Ever since she met Englischer Chris Ellis while helping out at the Yellow Bird Inn, she can't stop thinking about him. She knows a relationship could never go anywhere—Chris was working undercover in Crittenden County as a DEA agent. That meant he faced danger daily and carried a gun, making him completely unsuitable for an Amish woman like herself. But she knew he felt the attraction, too. It was the reason he left so suddenly, promising never to see her again.

Then, three days before Christmas, while Beth is taking care of the inn, Chris returns. This time, he is bleeding and in need of a place to hide. Against her better judgment, Beth takes him in and tends to his wounds. She also promises to keep his presence a secret. Before long, it becomes clear that nothing between them has changed—a relationship is inevitable. But are they ready to sacrifice everything for this chance at love?

My Review:

As with everything in life, the forbidden is what draws us to do wrong. Whether it's wrong because others think so or because it is morally wrong doesn't matter; if we are expected to never cross certain lines, than that's exactly where we want to go. The Amish and a DEA agent just won't mix, if not because of completely opposite beliefs, but because their lifestyles are inconsistent and contradictory. But Beth in our story, can't get Chris out of her mind - or heart.

Naturally, this causes a few problems. And I just have to applaud Gray for bringing us a novel so compelling that you won't want to put it down. The characters draw you into their lives from the first, and make you ache to reach through the pages and solve their problems for them. They have no recourse for their feelings, but being of such conflicting beliefs and lives makes for a stunning drama. With the beautiful backdrop of Christmastime and the outstanding writing from Gray, this is a novel that will continue to touch the hearts of those who read it.

This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.

[Gail Welborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

***11 Amish Christmas 2013 new releases from top selling authors and publishers***

***See the covers and reviews of all 11 on The Seattle Examiner***

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Shelley Shepard Gray releases Peace, Tuesday, October 22nd. With a Christmas love story that re-connects readers with lovable characters, Beth Byler and Chris Ellis from Crittenden County’s 2012 trilogy— Secrets: Missing, The Search and Found .

Peace opens with secret DEA agent, Chris Ellis, about to collapse, leaning against the Yellow Bird Inn’s front door post torn between knocking and leaving as he watched his blood drip “onto the pristine doormat under his feet.” …For the full review and ten other Amish Christmas titles:
www.examiner.com/list/peace-a-critten...

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent love story with some intrigue too. I so enjoyed this book.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is first book I have read by Shelley Shepard Gray. Happy to have discovered this very good author. A perfect holiday read-- very heartwarming.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sorry to be done with this series. :-(
This Summary/Review was copied from other sources and is used only as a reminder of what the book was about for my personal interest. Any Personal Notations are for my recollection only.
**
After a year of secrets and scandal, will this Amish community finally find peace under the bright promise of Christmas?

Beth Byler has a secret. Ever since she met Englischer Chris Ellis while helping out at the Yellow Bird Inn, she can't stop thinking about him. She knows a relationship could never go anywhere—Chris was working undercover in Crittenden County as a DEA agent. That meant he faced danger daily and carried a gun, making him completely unsuitable for an Amish woman like herself. But she knew he felt the attraction, too. It was the reason he left so suddenly, promising never to see her again.

Then, three days before Christmas, while Beth is taking care of the inn, Chris returns. This time, he is bleeding and in need of a place to hide. Against her better judgment, Beth takes him in and tends to his wounds. She also promises to keep his presence a secret. Before long, it becomes clear that nothing between them has changed—a relationship is inevitable. But are they ready to sacrifice everything for this chance at love?
will Beth and Chris sacrifice everything for a chance at love?
how did Beth met Chris?
where is Yellow Bird Inn, the quaint little bed and breakfast location?
what are the secrets and scandal in this Amish community?
I am looking forward to reading more books by Shelley Shepard Gray.
Peace is a wonderful well written a 5 stars book.

The Secrets of Crittenden County series
Missing
The Search
Found.
Peace
**

After a year of secrets and scandal, will this Amish community finally find peace under the bright promise of Christmas?

Beth Byler has a secret. Ever since she met Englischer Chris Ellis while helping out at the Yellow Bird Inn, she can't stop thinking about him. She knows a relationship could never go anywhere—Chris was working undercover in Crittenden County as a DEA agent. That meant he faced danger daily and carried a gun, making him completely unsuitable for an Amish woman like herself. But she knew he felt the attraction, too. It was the reason he left so suddenly, promising never to see her again.

Then, three days before Christmas, while Beth is taking care of the inn, Chris returns. This time, he is bleeding and in need of a place to hide. Against her better judgment, Beth takes him in and tends to his wounds. She also promises to keep his presence a secret. Before long, it becomes clear that nothing between them has changed—a relationship is inevitable. But are they ready to sacrifice everything for this chance at love?

As with everything in life, the forbidden is what draws us to do wrong. Whether it's wrong because others think so or because it is morally wrong doesn't matter; if we are expected to never cross certain lines, than that's exactly where we want to go. The Amish and a DEA agent just won't mix, if not because of completely opposite beliefs, but because their lifestyles are inconsistent and contradictory. But Beth in our story, can't get Chris out of her mind - or heart.

Naturally, this causes a few problems. And I just have to applaud Gray for bringing us a novel so compelling that you won't want to put it down. The characters draw you into their lives from the first, and make you ache to reach through the pages and solve their problems for them. They have no recourse for their feelings, but being of such conflicting beliefs and lives makes for a stunning drama. With the beautiful backdrop of Christmastime and the outstanding writing from Gray, this is a novel that will continue to touch the hearts of those who read it.

***
New Year’s Day Beth Byler shifted her tote bag into her right hand before opening the door to Schrock’s Variety Store. The store was officially closed for the holiday, but Jacob and Deborah had decided to host a party for their friends. Actually, they’d wanted to host the party in their home behind the store. It had been Walker Anderson who’d asked that the location be changed. “Beth, you finally made it,” Frannie called out from one of the brightly painted rocking chairs that they’d arranged in a circle at the front of the store. Leave it to Frannie to never hold her tongue. “I’m not that late,” she said as she set her tote bag down next to a card table laden with food. “Thirty minutes late.” Her face breaking into a bright grin, she said, “Care to tell us the reason?” Trying to ignore everyone’s chuckles, Beth shrugged off her coat and hung it on one of the half dozen coat racks out for sale. “Chris called.” For a moment, she tried to act nonchalant about her new relationship, but she quickly gave up the fight. Looking around the room, she met all of her friends’ smiles as she felt her cheeks heat. “Chris wanted to tell me happy New Year. He’s up in Chicago, you know.” Giving her a quick hug, Lydia said, “I bet that wasn’t all he wanted to tell you.” Beth smiled. It wasn’t. Chris had given her an update on how his last days of working for the DEA were going, and how his recent phone conversations with his parents had gone. And then he’d told her how much he loved her.“When will you see him again?” Walker asked, coming to stand by his fiancée. “Hopefully next week. He said he’ll be done with his work soon, then he’s going to spend a few days with his parents and brothers. After that, he’ll head out here to Crittenden County.” “He’s going to stay at the inn,” Frannie announced, looking very pleased. “He’s looking forward to it,” Beth said. Thinking about their plans, Beth let her mind drift once again. Chris was going to stay at the inn while she was going to be at home with her mother. But they’d already planned lots of things to do. Beth was mighty sure they’d spend every moment they could together. Though they hadn’t talked about marriage yet, she knew Chris well enough to suspect he was ready to broach the subject. “I’m anxious to see him . . . and eager for you all to get to know him.” Turning to Deborah, she winked.“But at the moment, I’m more anxious to see how Jacob is doing.” Jacob, who had been busy pouring sodas, paused. “What are you talking about?” Deborah looped her arm around Jacob’s elbow. “Beth’s wondering what you think about our new hund.” His eyebrows rose. “What dog?” “This one,” Luke said, coming out from the back with a beautiful Irish setter. “Jacob, meet Ireland.” Beth stood next to Frannie and Lydia as Jacob stared at the dog in shock. “Where did he come from?” Luke rolled his eyes. “It’s a she, Jacob. She’s a rescue. Someone dumped her on the side of the road, and one of the patrolmen at our station found her shivering in the snow.” “She was abandoned? That’s terrible.” Jacob walked closer to her, slowly held out his hand for the dog to sniff. Ireland sniffed his hand carefully, as she stared at him with a wary expression in her dark brown eyes. They softened when he gently patted her. When her tail started to wag slowly, Luke stepped away, letting Jacob and the dog get to know each other. Still petting her, he said, “I don’t understand why you brought her to me.” “It’s for the store, you see,” Frannie said. “Everyone misses the animals. Since you don’t want to sell pets, we thought she could come to work with you each day.” Deborah crouched down next to Ireland and petted her, too. “When Luke and Frannie called me about Ireland, I thought it would be the perfect solution. Folks could come in, see us, and see the dog, too. But she wouldn’t be all the work that your father’s pets for sale were.” Still hardly looking away from the dog, Jacob said, “It’s a gut idea, for sure. But I don’t know if we need a pet, or if the store does.” “Trust me,” said Walker. “The store does.” “How about this?” Deborah asked. “Maybe it doesn’t matter if you need her or not.” Gesturing at the dog, who now was lying down on a little rug, looking happy and at peace, she said, “I think she needs you. Is that enough?” As Jacob pondered that, Beth looked at their little group. At Frannie and Luke, at Lydia and Walker, at Jacob and Deborah, too. Then, she smiled a bit, realizing that very soon she, too, would be a part of a couple. Her friends were wunderbaar. Surely, some of the best friends in the world. The friends who had been there for one another through thick and thin. And she realized that Deborah had made a very good point—they all needed one another. Luckily, Jacob Schrock agreed. “Deborah, you’re exactly right. Needing to be needed? Needing to be loved? It’s more than enough for me,” he said. “It is more than enough for anyone, I think. I do believe I have a new dog.”Pleased about Jacob’s decision, Beth knew exactly the right thing to say to break up their serious moment. “Who’s hungry?” she asked. Pointing to her tote bag, she smiled brightly. “Guess what? I brought snacks.” As expected, her announcement brought a chorus of groans and more than a few derisive jokes. And a whole lot of laughter. Soon, Beth knew they’d all be having babies, and most likely she and Chris would be moving somewhere else. Who knew what else the Lord had planned for them? All she did know was that this moment was just about perfect. They were happy and healthy, and had each found someone who needed and loved them. They had found peace. And that, indeed, was good enough.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peace: A Crittenden County Christmas
by Shelley Shepard Gray
PEACE is the Christmas novella, part of The Secrets of Crittenden County series.

After a year of secrets and scandal, will this Amish community finally find peace under the bright promise of Christmas?

Beth Byler has a secret. Ever since she met Englischer Chris Ellis while helping out at the Yellow Bird Inn, she can't stop thinking about him. She knows a relationship could never go anywhere—Chris was working undercover in Crittenden County as a DEA agent. That meant he faced danger daily and carried a gun, making him completely unsuitable for an Amish woman like herself. But she knew he felt the attraction, too. It was the reason he left so suddenly, promising never to see her again.

Then, three days before Christmas, while Beth is taking care of the inn, Chris returns. This time, he is bleeding and in need of a place to hide. Against her better judgment, Beth takes him in and tends to his wounds. She also promises to keep his presence a secret. Before long, it becomes clear that nothing between them has changed—a relationship is inevitable. But are they ready to sacrifice everything for this chance at love?
will Beth and Chris sacrifice everything for a chance at love?
how did Beth met Chris?
where is Yellow Bird Inn, the quaint little bed and breakfast location?
what are the secrets and scandal in this Amish community?
I am looking forward to reading more books by Shelley Shepard Gray.
Peace is a wonderful well written a 5 stars book.
a Wonderful Christmas story.
I highly recommend all of Shelley Shepard Gray's books .
The Secrets of Crittenden County series
Missing
The Search
Found.
Peace

[Katrina Epperson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author has written an inspiring romance set in an Amish community. She has brought us well developed characters that give you a glimpse of their heart and soul. This story is centered around Christmas and reminds us that the true meaning of the holiday is the birth of Jesus and his love for each and everyone of us.
We are introduced to Beth Byler, a lovely young woman who as agreed to look after her friend's Bed and Breakfast through the holiday season. There are to be no guests so Beth anticipates no problems, until Chris Ellis arrives bruised and bleeding on the doorstep. Chris is a deep undercover DEA agent who needs help to recover and a place to disappear for a few days. Chris comes to Frannie for help never anticipating on seeing Beth again. Months ago, Chris had met Beth when both had started to develop feelings for one another Chris had left and never planned to return. Beth, being an Amish woman, knew any type of relationship was unsuitable, but putting him out of her heart and thoughts wasn't quiet so simple.
This is a feel good romance that will touch anyone's heart. A sweet story where the characters find things are more complicated than they ever imagined. Could Beth put her way of life aside for Chris? Could Chris live with himself if Beth was every hurt because of him?

[Charlene · Rating 3 out of 5]

This title interested me because of the holiday theme and Amish heroine. Reading this book on its own made me feel at a distinct disadvantage because the story and characters are obviously carried over from one or two previous books.

The thought that kept distracting me when I read this was that it seemed to be modeled after the Harrison Ford film from some years ago, "Witness," which I liked very much [other than the intimacy and violence in the film]. The hero is an undercover agent who, when injured, turns up at the B&B that the Amish heroine just happens to be overseeing while the owner is away. They evidently fell in love in a previous encounter, but neither has shared their feelings because they are certain a union between an "Englisher" and an Amish person would be hopeless.

There are a couple of other subplots in this book, with characters that readers of the series will know, and they would have been more interesting if I had begun with the earlier book(s).

The print is larger than most paperback, but not BIG PRINT, and the length runs to 229 pages. The ending is quite abrupt -- I could not believe that it was over when I turned the page and found it blank!

[Sharon Chance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Shelley Shepard Gray is well-known for her Amish-themed novels, and her series, "The Secrets of Crittenden County," is one of my favorites. She brings the outside world into the Amish community and shows how both cultures can work together with a little work, a little patience, and a lot of love and understanding.

Her holiday novel, "Peace," is the fourth book in the "Crittenden" series, and focuses on sweet Beth Byler and DEA agent Chris Ellis and their star-crossed romance. Gray mixes in mystery and danger with the heartwarming romance that blooms between the two to create a charming and intriguing Christmas tale. It's a mix that works well and keeps the reader enthralled to the final page.

I highly recommend any work by Shelley Shepard Gray for those who enjoy Amish-themed novels, and inspirational fiction.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so glad that this book is now being listed as the 4th book in the 'Secrets of Crittenden County' series. You really do need to read the first 3 in order to not be spoiled by things that are mentioned in this book.
To be honest, I had kind of forgotten about Beth and Chris and their mutual attraction that had been mentioned previously. When I read the back cover of this book, I was excited that their story would be resolved. The book definitely did not disappoint!
I felt like this book was a conclusion to the series that I didn't even realise I needed. I am looking forward to reading more of Shelley Shepard Gray's work.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth and DEA Agent Chris story is a sweet romance along with a little suspense in the story. I appreciate how Shelley Shepard Gray wrapped up this series. Peace can be read as a standalone but highly recommend reading the entire series, Missing, The Search and Found to appreciate this beautiful and touching story.

I loved the theme of finding peace and hope during difficult times found within this amazing story. Peace brings closure for the residents of Crittenden County after the murder of one of their own.

I purchased this book directly from the author without any obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own opinion.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never completely reread books anymore unless it’s for a book club. Yet this book stuck with me after I read it the first time several years ago. The love story of Englisher Chris and Amish Beth was beautifully written. I remember reading the former books in the series and wanting a satisfactory ending for the tough DEA agent and the innocent Amish girl.
The book stands alone but to get full perspective, I’d suggest reading the other three books that came before.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this mystery within an Amish setting. The pacing is great and the characters are well developed with compelling interactions. This is the first I have read from this author and so did not have back stories that were referenced here. I was still able to follow this story however and look forward to reading others that predate this one.
A clean romantic mystery.

[April Suter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris returns to Crittenden County and finds Beth at the Yellow Bird Inn. As Christmas approaches they realize what they mean to one another but also how far apart their two worlds are. Meanwhile
Jacob and Deborah visit his father in jail and try forgiveness.
229 pages

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am such a fan. Once again, read this book in one sitting. I get so caught up in the story that I don't normally get up until I have read the whole book. Good story, Christmas theme, Amish, well written...what is not to love?? You really need to read her books.

[Carolyn E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. I believe it is actually Book #4 in Shelley Shepard Gray's "Crittenden County" series. This is a wonderful series; I highly recommend it.

[Jesus Beach Girl Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peace is a perfect title for this book. Chris and Beth meet up again when his cover is blown and he has no where else to go. Jacob and Aaron make peace in a moving scene. Fans of the Secrets of Crittenden County will love this peaceful, Christmas story.

[Rocklee · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Grace' was the title of the book I actually read but I couldn't find it here in Goodreads.
Grace was a sweet little story that (while it was very predictable) entertained me on a lonely weekend. Very much outside of my usual choices, but I liked it.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Amish Fiction! Read my review: http://www.fireandicereads.com/2013/1...

[Ndecamp · Rating 3 out of 5]

Totally "lite" ready - but good diversion with a holiday twist.

[Julie Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for the holidays! Shelley's voice as always is like talking to an old friend-I loved every bit of it!

[Kim Blevins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming book of the Amish and Christmas and a happy ending!!

[January · Rating 3 out of 5]

Peace Shepard Gray 204 ebook pages story ends on 181
The Secrets of Crittenden County #3.5

Genre: Holiday > Christmas; Christian Fiction > Amish; Romance > Clean Romance

Featuring: Epigraphs, Marion, Crittenden County, Kentucky, Detective, DEA, Store, Secrets, Prison, Family, Forgiveness, Kissing, Author's Letter, Discussion Questions, Book Preview: Hopeful

Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult content

My rating: ⭐⭐½

My thoughts: Page 16 of 204 Ch. 2 - I'm already annoyed with the plot but I didn't get my closure so I'm going to see it to the end.
🔖35, Ch 4. - I'm not a fan of the plot but it's nice to get some background on Chris.
🔖 81, Ch. 9 - I'm irritated that about the results of the previous book, and this story seems to be going down an unrealistic path outside of the murder mystery that's nuts.
🔖 120 Ch. 14 - I really wish they'd stop saying he murdered him.

I don't want to give anything away but I have say this entire series has been ridiculous. There was a body in the first book and the results made no sense because in my opinion it would have been manslaughter and 2 people should be imprisoned not one. So, hearing them say that person murdered someone over and over again when there was no murder and the person who went to prison didn't even cause the death is really annoying. Especially when the person who actually caused the death is walking around free and blaming the witness. The main plot is just as silly. I was highly disappointed the one person I wanted to get yoked, didn't. Maybe they'll turn up in another series. I have loved most things I've read by Shelley Shepard Gray but this series didn't work for me and Christmas couldn't save this novella, it was just okay. Too unrealistic for me to appreciate.

Recommend to others?: Not really. I wouldn't recommend this series or book to anyone as an introduction to Ms Gray, for fans maybe, but in general it's skippable.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well-written fourth novel (despite it being called 3.5) in a great Amish series full of great characters. This is a rather unique series of books because the first three novels involve a mystery that is solved by the end of the third novel and at the same time three different couples sort through various obstacles in their way to forming a life together, but the fourth tag-along novel is a suspenseful romance due to a secondary romance that was introduced in the second novel. (According to the author's note, this was a piece of the story that she didn't expect to become as developed as it did. I still get confused by authors saying such-an-such character surprised me or such things. I think of authors as being God except than an author's characters aren't real and don't have free will like people do, so why wouldn't you know what your creation was going to do? But I digress.) In this particular novel, we finally get to see Beth and Chris together again (their intense attraction being revealed in the second novel of the series) and see how their love grows, how Chris becomes reconciled to his family due to Beth's initiative, and how Chris ultimately decides he no longer wants to be in the DEA as a deep cover agent allowing him to see life with Beth as actually possible. There is also a decent secondary plot about Deborah and Jacob's first Christmas as a married couple and how Jacob finally forgives a family member who he felt betrayed by. Admittedly, the suspense involved in this novel is minor, so it is mainly a romance with a good amount of character growth; however, it is still a great conclusion to the novel. Regardless of its quirks and flaws though, I really enjoyed this series and fell in love with the characters and the small town feel of Crittenden County.

[Rosemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella takes place about 6 months after the ending of book 3 in the series. Frannie, now a Mennonite, is married to Luke (the English detective from Cincinnati). They have gone out of town for Christmas, and Frannie once again asks her single Amish friend Beth to watch her B&B while they're gone. She has no reservations for the week of Christmas, and she's frozen several meals for Beth to eat (as Beth is not a good cook). Thinking it would be an easy week, Beth is comfortable staying at the inn. However, a man from her past shows up at the door, beaten badly and bleeding. DEA Agent Chris Hart needs her help - to hide from those who attacked him and to heal. Beth isn't ready to have her heart broken again, but she can't turn Chris away. Meanwhile, Jacob Schrock and his new wife Deborah are trying to run his family store without his father. Jacob is having a very difficult time of it, especially because he is angry and bitter, and can't seem to work his way through it. The murder of Perry Borntrager was solved, but the damage his life - and death - caused to many in the community is very evident this Christmas. The best gift of all this year would be healing and peace.

A good story and a good series.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Byler is helping a friend, Frannie, at the Yellow Bird Inn during Frannie's absence. She is shocked as she opens the door to find Chris, an Englischer, who is an undercover agent for drug enforcement. He is bleeding and in terrible shape as he arrives at the door. Beth takes him in and cares for him. He was a friend that she had been quite attracted to the last time he was in Crittenden County. He explains his dangerous situation. Alone with him at the Inn, she faces her fears and feeling about Chris. He is also facing feelings about his friend, Beth, a young and pretty Amish woman.

His family, not knowing that Chris works as an undercover agent, actually thinks that he is no longer the son they raised and feelings between Chris and his parents are not good.

After tending to his injuries as best she can, Beth and Chris spend Christmas together. However, he has another assignment in a few days which will take him out of Beth's life as quickly as he re-entered it.

This book is pretty fast paced and quite interesting. Although it is a Christmas book, I have to admit, I am a little late getting to read this, however, it was a fun read, no matter when you read it!

[Diana C. Kobylak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about Beth, an Amish girl and Chris, an Englisher, who is also an undercover DEA agent. He’s been badly beaten and drives himself to the warmth of the inn where Beth works during the Christmas holidays for care and recovery. The place is familiar as he’s been there before. He has a crush on the Beth, and she on him. However, he must soon take on another undercover role right after Christmas and leave all over again. The story kept me wondering how things would work out for them, but Ms. Gray makes it work. There is also a side story about Jacob, whose dad is in prison and his wife Debra whose brother was killed. Both women intervene to help reunite the men with their families. A very heartwarming story.

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Peace #3.5 The Secrets of Crittenden County by Shelley S. Gray

Crittenden County, Kentucky
Amish Beth Byler and Englisher Chris Ellis fall in love, but is there a future for them with the differences in their cultures? An interesting story with secrets, scandal, danger, love, and faith in the midst of Christmas time.

~I won a copy of this book from the author/publisher via GoodReads (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~

[Janet B · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ms Gray is one of my favorite Amish fiction authors, but this simply was far far from her best. The characters were one dimensional, and there was nothing about them to pull me in, or make me care about their stories. The quotes from different characters at the heading of each chapter were honestly, cheesy and cringe worthy. One bad book won't make me stop reading Ms Grays books, but that doesn't negate my disappointment.