What do you think?
Rate this book
Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen #2
Forbidden Truth: An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel
What happens when living the dream means losing yourself?
Johanna Yoder can breathe again. Willow Brook’s once tyrannical Bishop Zook has been replaced by Gott’s true elect, Gideon Hochstetler. And the new bishop can’t help but show some special leniency towards the aspiring Amish writer.
Working at the Mountain Laurel Star newspaper while remaining Amish is a dream come true for Johanna. And, as her love for the Englischer reporter, Judah Barton, steadily increases, so does a niggling suspicion that her former bishop rots in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. Judah joins Johanna in her convictions, and together they seek to uncover the truth to what really happened that dark night over forty years ago when three men were killed.
But in the middle of searching for answers, Johanna finds herself struggling with a crushing crisis that comes from living a double life. Who is she, really? Does Johanna have it in her to embrace what she needs most as she desperately fights for justice for a man who once wished her dead?
Johanna Yoder can breathe again. Willow Brook’s once tyrannical Bishop Zook has been replaced by Gott’s true elect, Gideon Hochstetler. And the new bishop can’t help but show some special leniency towards the aspiring Amish writer.
Working at the Mountain Laurel Star newspaper while remaining Amish is a dream come true for Johanna. And, as her love for the Englischer reporter, Judah Barton, steadily increases, so does a niggling suspicion that her former bishop rots in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. Judah joins Johanna in her convictions, and together they seek to uncover the truth to what really happened that dark night over forty years ago when three men were killed.
But in the middle of searching for answers, Johanna finds herself struggling with a crushing crisis that comes from living a double life. Who is she, really? Does Johanna have it in her to embrace what she needs most as she desperately fights for justice for a man who once wished her dead?
- GenresAmish
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2022
10 people are currently reading
56 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 19, 2022
From the moment I began reading the first book, I knew this series was unique. Refreshingly so. It mixes an uncommonly-seen-together cast with a bit of mystery, a bit of light suspense, a bit of romance, an organic focus on the gospel, and a whole lot of heart. It’s hard to pinpoint a specific genre as it effortlessly blends several but I think I’ve finally settled on it being a traditional mystery with some nontraditional characters.
Like its predecessor, Forbidden Truth shifts between Johanna and Judah’s first person narratives as well as treating us to Kelly and Matthias’s third person perspectives to help bind the story together. And what a story it is! Picking up the loose threads remaining from Forbidden Gift, it immerses us not only in a mystery long unsolved but also in a community long burdened. A struggling newspaper that means so much to so many of our characters and could be the key to unlocking the truth where decades of lies have grown untamed – as long as someone else doesn’t beat them to it. An Amish district reeling from those lies and unsettled by change, unsure who should lead them into much-needed healing, or even what that healing would look like. And in between stands a young Amish woman with a gift for writing and a growing need to figure out to which side of the fence she belongs.
Once again Torres has given us characters we can relate to, helping us see the core things they have in common with each other -and with us, too. A need to belong. A need to identify who we are and Who we believe about ourselves. A need to use our God-given gifts and passions to serve Him. A need to know the truth and let it set us free. Each of the four main characters in this book – Johanna (a young Amish woman who writes for the local newspaper), Judah (a young, non-Amish newspaper reporter), Kelly (Judah’s mom and the owner of said newspaper), and Matthias (an escaped-convict-turned-disgraced-former-Amish-bishop on the run again) – are on their own journeys to grab hold of these core traits even as their paths intersect in life-changing ways. Through it all, the author weaves unforgettable supporting characters who tug on your heart just as much as the main cast.
Bottom Line: Forbidden Truth takes us from where Forbidden Gift left off and gently leads us to the doorstep of book three with a scene that will have you simultaneously satisfied with the ending and impatiently waiting for the next one. (I highly recommend that you read book one before jumping in to book two, only so that you can adequately appreciate the weight of certain plot turns.) There were moments in this book that I wiped away tears because someone’s journey to grace was so tender or because the stirrings of restoration hummed in the background – told in a way that only an author sensitive to God’s heart could write. I’m so intrigued to see where she will take these characters – and us readers – in the third installment. Forbidden Truth is an engaging story from beginning to end, with a little something for every reader!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Like its predecessor, Forbidden Truth shifts between Johanna and Judah’s first person narratives as well as treating us to Kelly and Matthias’s third person perspectives to help bind the story together. And what a story it is! Picking up the loose threads remaining from Forbidden Gift, it immerses us not only in a mystery long unsolved but also in a community long burdened. A struggling newspaper that means so much to so many of our characters and could be the key to unlocking the truth where decades of lies have grown untamed – as long as someone else doesn’t beat them to it. An Amish district reeling from those lies and unsettled by change, unsure who should lead them into much-needed healing, or even what that healing would look like. And in between stands a young Amish woman with a gift for writing and a growing need to figure out to which side of the fence she belongs.
Once again Torres has given us characters we can relate to, helping us see the core things they have in common with each other -and with us, too. A need to belong. A need to identify who we are and Who we believe about ourselves. A need to use our God-given gifts and passions to serve Him. A need to know the truth and let it set us free. Each of the four main characters in this book – Johanna (a young Amish woman who writes for the local newspaper), Judah (a young, non-Amish newspaper reporter), Kelly (Judah’s mom and the owner of said newspaper), and Matthias (an escaped-convict-turned-disgraced-former-Amish-bishop on the run again) – are on their own journeys to grab hold of these core traits even as their paths intersect in life-changing ways. Through it all, the author weaves unforgettable supporting characters who tug on your heart just as much as the main cast.
Bottom Line: Forbidden Truth takes us from where Forbidden Gift left off and gently leads us to the doorstep of book three with a scene that will have you simultaneously satisfied with the ending and impatiently waiting for the next one. (I highly recommend that you read book one before jumping in to book two, only so that you can adequately appreciate the weight of certain plot turns.) There were moments in this book that I wiped away tears because someone’s journey to grace was so tender or because the stirrings of restoration hummed in the background – told in a way that only an author sensitive to God’s heart could write. I’m so intrigued to see where she will take these characters – and us readers – in the third installment. Forbidden Truth is an engaging story from beginning to end, with a little something for every reader!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 19, 2022
Things aren’t always what they seem. This is the thought Johanna has after her kidnapping from Bishop Zook. Book Two in the Willow Brook: Secrets of the Pen, picks up right where Book One ends. I highly recommend reading the books in order.
Johanna seems to be the only person who thinks the Bishop is innocent. She goes on a journey to prove his innocence with Judah Barton, an Englisch reporter. She has conflicting feelings about her Amish life and living in the Englisch world. The characters also took a trip to New York City and it was fun seeing how Johanna navigated the “Big City”. Debra Torres created characters that are real and relatable. Once I picked this book up, I couldn’t put it down!
The book ended with a surprising cliffhanger. The next book can’t come out fast enough.
I want to thank the author for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Johanna seems to be the only person who thinks the Bishop is innocent. She goes on a journey to prove his innocence with Judah Barton, an Englisch reporter. She has conflicting feelings about her Amish life and living in the Englisch world. The characters also took a trip to New York City and it was fun seeing how Johanna navigated the “Big City”. Debra Torres created characters that are real and relatable. Once I picked this book up, I couldn’t put it down!
The book ended with a surprising cliffhanger. The next book can’t come out fast enough.
I want to thank the author for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Read
April 18, 2022I love this book. It kept me involved in the book it didn’t have a boring moment in the book. I did like how the book kept the characters involved in the book . It didn’t let It did not let one character go unmentioned at all you. Always new who was talking and what they were doing
April 19, 2022
"Forbidden Truth" by Debra Torres
An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel (Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen Book 2)
What happens when living the dream means losing yourself?
Johanna Yoder can breathe again. Willow Brook’s once tyrannical Bishop Zook has been replaced by Gott’s true elect, Gideon Hochstetler. And the new bishop can’t help but show some special leniency towards the aspiring Amish writer.
Working at the Mountain Laurel Star newspaper while remaining Amish is a dream come true for Johanna. And, as her love for the Englischer reporter, Judah Barton, steadily increases, so does a niggling suspicion that her former bishop rots in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. Judah joins Johanna in her convictions, and together they seek to uncover the truth to what really happened that dark night over forty years ago when three men were killed.
But in the middle of searching for answers, Johanna finds herself struggling with a crushing crisis that comes from living a double life. Who is she, really? Does Johanna have it in her to embrace what she needs most as she desperately fights for justice for a man who once wished her dead?
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.
I found my brother David working on the well pump in the back of our barn and told him I’d completed the task.
Judah
The reporter in the cubical next to me thumped hard at his keyboard again.
I did my best to follow the delivery guy in the pickup, but I forgot to mention to Hilton that the Swagon only went so fast before she started to shake.
I lightened up on the gas pedal to calm things down and watched the pickup slowly edge out of my sight.
It wasn’t long before the truck was completely gone.Backtracking, I tried to follow one of the lonely country roads the guy might have turned down, but after a while, the fields of drying corn all started to look the
same, and I got a little turned around.
I recommend reading.
The "Forbidden Truth" by Debra Torres is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Debra Torres.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel (Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen Book 2)
What happens when living the dream means losing yourself?
Johanna Yoder can breathe again. Willow Brook’s once tyrannical Bishop Zook has been replaced by Gott’s true elect, Gideon Hochstetler. And the new bishop can’t help but show some special leniency towards the aspiring Amish writer.
Working at the Mountain Laurel Star newspaper while remaining Amish is a dream come true for Johanna. And, as her love for the Englischer reporter, Judah Barton, steadily increases, so does a niggling suspicion that her former bishop rots in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. Judah joins Johanna in her convictions, and together they seek to uncover the truth to what really happened that dark night over forty years ago when three men were killed.
But in the middle of searching for answers, Johanna finds herself struggling with a crushing crisis that comes from living a double life. Who is she, really? Does Johanna have it in her to embrace what she needs most as she desperately fights for justice for a man who once wished her dead?
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.
I found my brother David working on the well pump in the back of our barn and told him I’d completed the task.
Judah
The reporter in the cubical next to me thumped hard at his keyboard again.
I did my best to follow the delivery guy in the pickup, but I forgot to mention to Hilton that the Swagon only went so fast before she started to shake.
I lightened up on the gas pedal to calm things down and watched the pickup slowly edge out of my sight.
It wasn’t long before the truck was completely gone.Backtracking, I tried to follow one of the lonely country roads the guy might have turned down, but after a while, the fields of drying corn all started to look the
same, and I got a little turned around.
I recommend reading.
The "Forbidden Truth" by Debra Torres is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Debra Torres.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
April 5, 2022
Wow, Wow, Wow, This Book is Everything a Great Book should Be!
Forbidden Truth is Book 2 in the Willow Brook Secrets of the Pen Series by Debra Torres
Trust me when I say if you have not yet ordered this book you will want too it’s fantastic, you could read it as a stand alone but I highly suggest you read Book 1 ( Forbidden Gift) first as you will get so much Back story and everything will fall into place for Book 2.
As I think about this storyline it brings to mind things like, Everyone has a story, and never judge someone until you walk a mile in their shoes. It’s easy to look at someone who is less than upbeat and Cranky or always Moody but if you really take the time to understand their story maybe just maybe we would understand the why behind their outer shell.
Debra Torres has crafted a storyline and characters that I believe we all can relate to, that we all can at some level see if not in ourself in someone we know, just the fact the we all have to take a look at who we are and where we see ourself in God’s eyes. Each of these characters has and will teach you something, and as a reader that’s wonderful but for the author that a great success I believe.
I was given a ARC of this book, however I was not in any way expected to give a positive review I’m very happy to say I can give am excellent review and I look forward to the next book in the series and I hope you all will appreciate this book and series as much as I do.
Forbidden Truth is Book 2 in the Willow Brook Secrets of the Pen Series by Debra Torres
Trust me when I say if you have not yet ordered this book you will want too it’s fantastic, you could read it as a stand alone but I highly suggest you read Book 1 ( Forbidden Gift) first as you will get so much Back story and everything will fall into place for Book 2.
As I think about this storyline it brings to mind things like, Everyone has a story, and never judge someone until you walk a mile in their shoes. It’s easy to look at someone who is less than upbeat and Cranky or always Moody but if you really take the time to understand their story maybe just maybe we would understand the why behind their outer shell.
Debra Torres has crafted a storyline and characters that I believe we all can relate to, that we all can at some level see if not in ourself in someone we know, just the fact the we all have to take a look at who we are and where we see ourself in God’s eyes. Each of these characters has and will teach you something, and as a reader that’s wonderful but for the author that a great success I believe.
I was given a ARC of this book, however I was not in any way expected to give a positive review I’m very happy to say I can give am excellent review and I look forward to the next book in the series and I hope you all will appreciate this book and series as much as I do.
October 10, 2022
Forbidden Truth is the second amazing story written by Debra Torres in her Willow Brook Silence of the Pen series. This is an Amish suspense love story and the mystery is unbearable. I enjoyed continuing to get to know Johanna and Judah' but also Bishop Amos Zook who is really Mathias Fisher. As secrets are revealed and a new Bishop is installed many changes come to Willow Brook for the better. With her love for writing Johanna is now able to do it without consequences and it makes her happy but someone is still out to get her. Johanna and Judah' along with their coworker Bertrand embark on a journey to reveal the truth about Mathias Fisher and what they find is jaw dropping. This story definitely offers friendship, love, family, and forgiveness. I was disappointed to find out I have to wait until May 9, 2023 to read the third story. With the cliffhanger at the end of the story I am anxious to see how it all plays out. Another amazing story by this author.
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. Make sure you read the books in order that way you get the full story.
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. Make sure you read the books in order that way you get the full story.
May 3, 2022
Fantastic Amish Fiction at Its Best!! Not to Be Missed!!
I just finished reading Forbidden Truth: An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel (Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen Book 2 by Debra Torres . This is a wonderful Amish novel, a combination of drama, mystery, suspense, and a little romance. The book is well written and there are very well developed main characters, plus lots of interesting supporting characters. The book is longer than many I have read which allows for deeper and more complex characters and story line. That said, the story grabs my attention from page one and is hard to put down.
Forbidden Truth is a continuation of Johanna Yoder's story from Book 1, however there are no cliff hangers the books may be read separately. The basic story is that if a young Amish girl with a love and talent for writing who is forbidden to write by her Amish community. The premise is simple but there are plenty of plot twists and turns which I will not give away. There are also plenty of good values of faith, understanding, and forgiveness and second chances to enhance the reading experience.
I received the book at no charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I just finished reading Forbidden Truth: An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel (Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen Book 2 by Debra Torres . This is a wonderful Amish novel, a combination of drama, mystery, suspense, and a little romance. The book is well written and there are very well developed main characters, plus lots of interesting supporting characters. The book is longer than many I have read which allows for deeper and more complex characters and story line. That said, the story grabs my attention from page one and is hard to put down.
Forbidden Truth is a continuation of Johanna Yoder's story from Book 1, however there are no cliff hangers the books may be read separately. The basic story is that if a young Amish girl with a love and talent for writing who is forbidden to write by her Amish community. The premise is simple but there are plenty of plot twists and turns which I will not give away. There are also plenty of good values of faith, understanding, and forgiveness and second chances to enhance the reading experience.
I received the book at no charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2022
Forbidden Truth is Debra Torres second novel. I would HIGHLY recommend reading the first book, Forbidden Gift, first.
Forbidden Truth picks up three weeks later from where the first book ended. The main characters are the same, so the story line is a continuation instead of a new/separate story.
Forbidden Truth has a slow start. I also felt it had a confusing start. I read the first book but kept getting lost in the first few chapters. While there is some mystery, it is not as suspenseful as the first novel. The story is description-driven.
The storyline itself is still very unique, especially as an Amish storyline. I appreciate the fresh ideas/voice that Torres has brought to Amish fiction.
The story ends rather abruptly but has the first few pages of book three and the continuing scene that ended abruptly. I will be anxiously awaiting the release of the third book to see what happens next.
I received a PDF of Forbidden Truth from the author. I was not required to provide a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Forbidden Truth picks up three weeks later from where the first book ended. The main characters are the same, so the story line is a continuation instead of a new/separate story.
Forbidden Truth has a slow start. I also felt it had a confusing start. I read the first book but kept getting lost in the first few chapters. While there is some mystery, it is not as suspenseful as the first novel. The story is description-driven.
The storyline itself is still very unique, especially as an Amish storyline. I appreciate the fresh ideas/voice that Torres has brought to Amish fiction.
The story ends rather abruptly but has the first few pages of book three and the continuing scene that ended abruptly. I will be anxiously awaiting the release of the third book to see what happens next.
I received a PDF of Forbidden Truth from the author. I was not required to provide a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 21, 2022
Book two in the Willow Brook - Secrets of the Pen series, you will want to read book one, Forbidden Gift, or you will be somewhat lost in this book. But don’t despair, it’s such a good book.
Forbidden Truth is again full of twists and turns, memories and emotions. All the emotions. I read as quickly as I could just to see how it would end. I mean, we know the ending in most stories, but the journey to get there is what keeps us reading. And this book is no different.
Not your “typical” Amish story, seeing how Johanna balanced the Amish and English worlds was interesting. Both she and Judah are well written, strong characters who are dealing with a lot in life. Yet we see God’s hand throughout. We’re also reminded that everyone has a story and we can’t judge a person’s actions by what we see. What happened to them in the past that developed them into who they are?
A story of forgiveness and faith, I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Forbidden Truth is again full of twists and turns, memories and emotions. All the emotions. I read as quickly as I could just to see how it would end. I mean, we know the ending in most stories, but the journey to get there is what keeps us reading. And this book is no different.
Not your “typical” Amish story, seeing how Johanna balanced the Amish and English worlds was interesting. Both she and Judah are well written, strong characters who are dealing with a lot in life. Yet we see God’s hand throughout. We’re also reminded that everyone has a story and we can’t judge a person’s actions by what we see. What happened to them in the past that developed them into who they are?
A story of forgiveness and faith, I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
April 18, 2022
An Excellent Book
I was fortunate to be chosen to be on the launch team for "Forbidden Truth" and received an advance copy. I committed to write an honest opinion.
I can not say enough about how much I liked this book. It was different - each of the main participants in the story telling their part in what was happening. This gave it an excellent perspective, in my opinion. I couldn't put this book down. The story tells the need to always look at a situation from every angle, not just making a conclusion and sticking only to that.
I read "Forbidden Gift" before and thought it was excellent, also. I was very much looking forward to "Forbidden Truth". I definitely recommend reading "Forbidden Gift" first as it will make "Forbidden Truth" much clearer.
I am certainly looking for book 3, "Forbidden Love" in this series. In fact I have already told Debra Torres that if there is a launch team for it I would like to be on it.
I was fortunate to be chosen to be on the launch team for "Forbidden Truth" and received an advance copy. I committed to write an honest opinion.
I can not say enough about how much I liked this book. It was different - each of the main participants in the story telling their part in what was happening. This gave it an excellent perspective, in my opinion. I couldn't put this book down. The story tells the need to always look at a situation from every angle, not just making a conclusion and sticking only to that.
I read "Forbidden Gift" before and thought it was excellent, also. I was very much looking forward to "Forbidden Truth". I definitely recommend reading "Forbidden Gift" first as it will make "Forbidden Truth" much clearer.
I am certainly looking for book 3, "Forbidden Love" in this series. In fact I have already told Debra Torres that if there is a launch team for it I would like to be on it.
April 21, 2022
I absolutely loved Forbidden Gift, the first book in this series and couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. I strongly recommend reading Forbidden Gift first as I don't consider this book a stand alone.
This story continues after a major secret is discovered in the first book. The characters are the same. Forbidden Truth has a slow and confusing start. I was disappointed in the amount of repetition within this book. The words could've been used better by bringing newbies up to date to make this a true stand alone. Though the characters were solving a mystery, it lacked the suspense I expected, but Forbidden Gift is a hard act to follow. Maybe my expectations were too high as this is a good read.
I about lost it when the story ended abruptly. Then I realized the first few pages of the next book was included. Whew!
I received the ARC of the book for free, this review is an honest opinion of the book.
This story continues after a major secret is discovered in the first book. The characters are the same. Forbidden Truth has a slow and confusing start. I was disappointed in the amount of repetition within this book. The words could've been used better by bringing newbies up to date to make this a true stand alone. Though the characters were solving a mystery, it lacked the suspense I expected, but Forbidden Gift is a hard act to follow. Maybe my expectations were too high as this is a good read.
I about lost it when the story ended abruptly. Then I realized the first few pages of the next book was included. Whew!
I received the ARC of the book for free, this review is an honest opinion of the book.
Read
April 21, 2022I recieved an Advanced Reader Copy of "Forbidden Truth" free. This is my honest opinion of the book. It is the 2nd series of (Willow Brook--Secrets of the Pen). This is a great book about a young Amish girl that is allowed to write for the local news paper. Which is normally against the Amish rules. Seems like one thing after another happening in the Amish community. I love how the author has divided each of the main characters to tell their side of the story. Keeps you interested the whole time. Talks about giving people a second chance. I can't wait to read book 1 which I purchased shortly after reading "Forbidden Truth". Then when book 3 comes out will definitely read it. So when you have a chance go buy the book and read it. You won't be disappointed.
April 21, 2022
This was the 1st book I've read by Debra Torres. It's been a long time since I've read Amish fiction, and I hadn't read anything by this author before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. There were so many twists and turns in this book, and the ending was not what I predicted, so it was fun to see how it all turned out.
At first, I felt like the first few chapters were off to a slow start, but that's ok because the rest of the book made up for it!
There are many authors of Amish fiction, but what I really appreciate about Torres, is that she truly seeks to learn about the Amish church and the life of Amish people so that her books are authentic.
I can't wait to read more of her work in the future.
I was given an ARC of the book and I promised to give an honest review of it.
At first, I felt like the first few chapters were off to a slow start, but that's ok because the rest of the book made up for it!
There are many authors of Amish fiction, but what I really appreciate about Torres, is that she truly seeks to learn about the Amish church and the life of Amish people so that her books are authentic.
I can't wait to read more of her work in the future.
I was given an ARC of the book and I promised to give an honest review of it.
Read
April 19, 2022My daughter and I received an advanced reader copy of this book for free but this is our honest opinion of the book. We really enjoyed this book, it gives a little glimpse into the Amish culture and focuses on relationships, their challenges and strengths while taking us on the journey of solving a life altering mystery involving one of the characters. We were drawn to the characters’ lives, their relationships, their spiritual growth and personal development. The characters and story came to life for us and we became very invested in what would happen next. We highly recommend this book and would suggest you visit her Facebook page for more interesting tidbits.
April 19, 2022
I love reading stories of Amish. And Author Debra knows how to create and mold characters and their stories beautifully. Being the second book in the series, this story is of Johanna and the mystery surrounding things that seem one way that they are not.
The story, chemistry with the characters is lovely along with the mystery of events. After her kidnapping, and to prove someone innocent will it be true or not. This story will leave you wishing book 3 was out and ready to be read. Will the Englisher help the young Amish girl find the truth. You'll be sitting engulfing the story from the time you open it.
I received a ARC from the author. All comments are my own.
The story, chemistry with the characters is lovely along with the mystery of events. After her kidnapping, and to prove someone innocent will it be true or not. This story will leave you wishing book 3 was out and ready to be read. Will the Englisher help the young Amish girl find the truth. You'll be sitting engulfing the story from the time you open it.
I received a ARC from the author. All comments are my own.
April 21, 2022
Debra Torres has done it again! After introducing us to Johanna Yoder in Forbidden Gift, I was delighted to receive an advance copy of the Forbidden Truth. And I wasn't disappointed. This is a page-turner. As Johanna wrestles with the two worlds in which she lives, we journey with her from rural Willow Creek to New York City. The concern for her safety expressed by her Englisher friends and Johanna's drive to find the truth create the perfect tension for suspense and mystery. Johanna's heart yearns to reveal the truth about a 40 year old murder. But as the story unfolds, another heart yearning begins to arise.
April 24, 2022
I very much enjoyed this sequel to The Forbidden Gift. The various perspectives of the characters bring depth the story. This series continues to be unique and very different from the other Amish fiction books that I have read. There are definitely some surprises and twists.
One story line between some side characters seemed to develop very quickly, but it still made for an interesting side story and kept me guessing about the outcome.
Note: You can read this without having read The Forbidden Gift, but it will totally spoil that story if you plan to read both. For that reason, I highly recommend reading The Forbidden Gift first. Plus, it's fantastic, so go read it!!!
One story line between some side characters seemed to develop very quickly, but it still made for an interesting side story and kept me guessing about the outcome.
Note: You can read this without having read The Forbidden Gift, but it will totally spoil that story if you plan to read both. For that reason, I highly recommend reading The Forbidden Gift first. Plus, it's fantastic, so go read it!!!
September 13, 2022
This book really surprised me! I knew Johanna wanted to help her former bishop find forgiveness, even after all the ways he’d punished her and her family…but I didn’t realize how far she’d go to help him! I love the theme of redemption throughout this story, and the importance of identity. It’s been neat watching each character come to a different understanding of who they are and who they’re meant to be. I love the ending, and the loose ends that mean a great third book is coming for this series. Torres’ writing style is simple and straightforward - perfect for the Plain people she’s concentrating on, as well as the interesting Englischers.
April 2, 2022
Forbidden Truth had suspense in the storyline and kept me on my toes and guessing what would happen next. I enjoyed reading it because it got me out of my reading rut and was just what I needed. Another great book by Debra Torres and she is still a semi new author to me. I would recommend this book and be sure you also read her other book, Forbidden Gift.
I was given a copy of this book from the author for my honest opinion and review.
I was given a copy of this book from the author for my honest opinion and review.
April 19, 2022
I am honored to be part of the launch team for this book. Book 2 pulled me in with the mystery and edge of your seat reading to find out what happens with the characters and the plot of the book. I like seeing Amish books that have a mystery aspect and Debra Torres has hit the nail with this book. I could not put down until I finished.
I was given an Advanced Reader copy of this book for free and I am under no obligation to give a positive review.
I was given an Advanced Reader copy of this book for free and I am under no obligation to give a positive review.
April 19, 2022
This was a loving and suspenseful Amish Story. I was hooked from the moment I started this book. I couldn't put it down as the romance and suspense was so good I just had to keep reading to see what happens next. I absolutely love the way this book continues from the first book in the series which is called "Forbidden Gift". I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 20, 2022
Although it took me awhile to really "get into the story," I enjoyed the storyline of an Amish young woman wanting to be a writer/reporter. How does she traverse through both the Amish and the English communities? And, what happens when she investigates a 40-year-old murder? The main character questions herself throughout the book as to "who" she really is, how important her faith is and what she wants to do with her life.
April 21, 2022
Book one, Forbidden Gift, sets the stage for this book in the series. We see the story continued as the main character, Johanna Yoder, struggles with her life situations. Not unlike most of us who struggle to make wise life choices!
It's a definite un-put-downable book! You simply must stay with it until you know the outcome!
Great read if you love Amish fiction.
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC from the author with no expectation in return. The opinions above are my own.
It's a definite un-put-downable book! You simply must stay with it until you know the outcome!
Great read if you love Amish fiction.
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC from the author with no expectation in return. The opinions above are my own.
April 21, 2022
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. If you enjoy suspense you will love this book. The story flows well and is easy to follow. The characters are likeable and realistic.
Even though this was a suspense story it is also a story of forgiveness and finding one's self.
I can't wait until the next book in this series is released.
I was given a advance readers copy of this book and under no obligation to post a review.
Even though this was a suspense story it is also a story of forgiveness and finding one's self.
I can't wait until the next book in this series is released.
I was given a advance readers copy of this book and under no obligation to post a review.
April 22, 2022
Johanna a reporter
Wow! What an amazing story Forbidden Truth is. A totally different insight to the Amish world where the local newspaper had hired Johanna as a reporter. What was really amazing is the local bishop had approved her working for the English newspaper.
This story will draw you in from the beginning to the very end as Johanna attempts to seek the truth that is the core of the bishop Fishers life.
Wow! What an amazing story Forbidden Truth is. A totally different insight to the Amish world where the local newspaper had hired Johanna as a reporter. What was really amazing is the local bishop had approved her working for the English newspaper.
This story will draw you in from the beginning to the very end as Johanna attempts to seek the truth that is the core of the bishop Fishers life.
April 18, 2022
The characters are very engaging in this series. Once you start it it’s very hard to put down. Loved the mystery, suspense and even romance all in one. Debra Torres has done it again with a wonderful series. True Amish fiction at its best. I was given a copy of this book for my own honest opinion and thus review is of my own accord.
April 20, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed Forbidden Truth, the second book of Debra Torres's Secret of the Pen series. Torres does a wonderful job of making her characters come to life on the pages. Johanna and Judah have wonderful working chemistry and I can't wait for Toress to continue their story in Book 3, Forbidden Love. If you enjoy a little mystery woven inside of Amish Country this book is a must-read.
February 6, 2024
I really enjoyed the storyline in this book and the continued development of the main characters. It’s written in a way that makes it hard to put down, you always want to keep reading to find our what happens next! Loved the addition of New York as a setting, looking forward to reading the next one to find out what happens.
April 30, 2022
Full of good surprises!
I never would of expected what took place as I read this book! What a beautiful way to show forgiveness and faith. Loved reading this just as much as the first in the series.
I never would of expected what took place as I read this book! What a beautiful way to show forgiveness and faith. Loved reading this just as much as the first in the series.
April 19, 2022
I received a free Advanced Review Copy of this book but this is my honest opinion of it. Forbidden Truth is the second book in the Willow Brook series by Debra Torres. It continues the storyline of the first book in the series which is Forbidden Gift. I loved both of these books and highly recommend them to anyone who reads Amish fiction. I started this book one afternoon and was immediately drawn into the story. I finished the book the next day. It was that hard to put down. It is full of suspense along with some romance in the story. Debra Torres is an excellent author and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews