The Secrets Beneath

Mysteries of Middlefield #2

by Kathleen Fuller

Rebekah Yoder loves a good mystery—that is, until she becomes a part of one. Rebekah Yoder has always been curious . . . or nosy depending on whom you ask. When a Yankee stranger moves into the house next door, she’s fascinated. Who is this strange old man who never waves or smiles? When Bekah sees him digging holes in his back yard, she’s sure there is a case to be solved. Unfortunately, when her cousin blabs the story to the whole school, rumors fly. Is he hiding something? Treasure? Victims? And worst of all, annoying Caleb Mullet is now determined to solve the mystery with her. What they don’t realize is there’s not just secrecy lurking next door—there’s danger. Will Bekah take her curiosity too far? Readers will love journeying with Bekah Yoder as they learn the danger of gossip, the importance of prayer, and the real story of  The Secrets Beneath .

Genres: Amish, Young Adult, Mystery, Christian, Christian Fiction, Clean Romance, Fiction

288 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 2010

About the author

Best-selling author of Amish fiction. Also a wife, mother, crafter, coffee addict, football fan, and chocolate aficionado.

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

About this book:

“Rebekah Yoder loves a good mystery—that is, until she becomes a part of one.
Rebekah Yoder has always been curious . . . or nosy depending on whom you ask. When a Yankee stranger moves into the house next door, she’s fascinated. Who is this strange old man who never waves or smiles? When Bekah sees him digging holes in his back yard, she’s sure there is a case to be solved.
Unfortunately, when her cousin blabs the story to the whole school, rumors fly. Is he hiding something? Treasure? Victims? And worst of all, annoying Caleb Mullet is now determined to solve the mystery with her. What they don’t realize is there’s not just secrecy lurking next door—there’s danger. Will Bekah take her curiosity too far?
Readers will love journeying with Bekah Yoder as they learn the danger of gossip, the importance of prayer, and the real story of The Secrets Beneath.”


Series: Book #2 in the “Mysteries of Middlefield” series. Review of Book #1 Here!


Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & trusting Him; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Amanda begins to doubt that God hears her prayers; Mentions of God & His will; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches church going, & services; Mentions of Amish beliefs; A few mentions of someone not wanting to be Amish anymore; A couple mentions of Thanking God; A mention of a miracle;
*Note: Mentions of a (rumored) haunted place & ghosts.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, two ‘shut up’s, two ‘stupid’s, and ten forms of ‘dumb’; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; Amanda tries to runaway; Being kidnapped, threatened, grabbed, & pain (up to semi-detailed); A bit of jealousy; Mentions of trespassing, a fire, & a runaway (Book #1); Mentions of escaping from prison; Mentions of kidnappings; Mentions of threats; Mentions of pain & injuries; Mentions of a mother who left her family & her illness (the daughter wonders if her mother didn’t want her); Mentions of burying bones (human or animal, it’s still creepy to Bekah); Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of disobeying & tattling; Mentions of tattoos; A few mentions of breaking in; A few mentions of nightmares (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of illegal activities; A couple mentions of robbing & a thief; A couple mentions of cigarettes; A couple mentions of divorce; A couple mentions of throwing up.


Sexual Content- Mentions of liking someone/crushes & cute boys; A couple mentions of blushes;
*Note: A mention of a miscarriage.

-Bekah Yoder, age 13
-Amanda Yoder, age 11
P.O.V. switches between them
266 pages

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Pre Teens- Two Stars
New Teens- Three Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
This was a light mystery. It happened to also deal with some family/friendship topics that I felt might be a bit mature for the Pre-Teen age, but, as always, it depends on the reader. It was overall a decent mystery and a cute book.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young Rebekah is far too curious for her own good. Despite her parents' warnings to focus on her chores and mind her own business, she can't help but be intrigued when a new neighbor moves in next door. His arrival immediately captures her attention, even with the mystery surrounding her cousin Amanda, who has come to stay with the family for an undisclosed period and refuses to explain why. Rebekah listens intently, hoping to uncover the truth behind her cousin’s stay, while her eyes remain fixed on her bedroom window. There, she spots her neighbor engaging in strange, late-night activities. But when a second, even more sinister stranger appears after the neighbor has left, searching for something—or someone—Rebekah’s curiosity turns into obsession. She can’t resist; she must uncover the secrets lurking just beyond her reach.

I didn’t expect to enjoy this young adult book as much as I did, and I would recommend it to readers of any age group. I loved Rebekah’s defiance in her endless curiosity and her obliviousness to Caleb’s interest in both the mystery and herself. The fact that the mystery wasn’t as simple as it initially seemed kept me truly engaged. Caleb’s character was a fun addition to the mix, and I found myself wishing he had played a bigger role in the investigation. His constant teasing of Rebekah drives her mad and, in my mind, reveals the innocence of a childhood crush. Their dynamic carries tension and unspoken feelings, making for some delightful and frustrating moments. Amanda’s character development is heartwarming, as she learns to trust and grows in confidence through her faith and perseverance. Amanda's reactions and interactions with Rebekah and Caleb are entirely realistic and understandable..

Through their investigation, the characters confront not only external mysteries but also personal struggles, which deepens the themes of trust, faith, and personal growth.

Kathleen Fuller maintains a steady pace throughout the story, gradually building momentum as the mystery unfolds. The mysterious old man who moves in next door and digs holes under the cover of night is definitely creepy, sure to have anyone staring out their window, eager to uncover the truth.

The Secrets Beneath is an engaging mystery featuring a group of young characters who form deep bonds and explore themes of friendship, honesty, and the security of family while navigating the eerie twists and turns of an ever-growing puzzle. With suspense building at every corner, this story keeps readers on the edge of their seat, eager to uncover what lies beneath the surface.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

best of the series. Loved the mystery in this book. It kept you wondering what was going on through the whole book. It is a great book for YA and Adults alike.

[Maria . · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secrets Beneath by Kathleen Fuller was a very good book. It had it all- action, mystery, and intrigue. I had read the first book in the series previously and really liked it, so I even-(collective gasp)- bought this book with my own money! ( Cymbals crash, people shriek, and there is general chaos!) Well, I was sorta forced too, since the library didn't have it. That kills me, 'ya know. :)
Plot: Bekah Yoder is a curious ( and sometimes nosy!) barely-teenage girl who loves a good mystery! So, she is more than curious when a double mystery arises- first, her cousin, Amanda, is staying at her ( Bekah's) house, and nobody will tell her (Bekah) why! Second, and most intriguing, a old man is moving in next door! But, oddly, he's digging holes at the crack of midnight- and burying something mysterious in them! Bekah can't wait to solve this one, like her favorite fictional heroine, Nancy Drew. But how much snooping is too much snooping? Bekah's about to find out!
What I liked: Well-written and interesting, this entertains. Good lessons are sprinkled throughout. I liked Bekah as a MC, and Amanda wasn't bad too. I liked this book!
What I didn't like: Amanda got a little annoying at times, to tell the truth.
Conclusion: Overall, a great and intriguing book!

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second in The Mysteries of Middlefield Series by Kathleen Fuller. In this book you will find Bekah a young 7th grade girl who is too curious for her own good, or some may say nosy,she reads mysteries and let's her imagination run wild after her cousin Amanda moves in with her under strange circumstances Bekah becomes more curious of not only what's going on with her cousin, but the house next door and the strange man who moved in and keeps burying things at night in his backyard. Then there is her annoying neighbor Caleb who is her own age. she can't figure him out either. Will she be able to settle the curious bug within her before something happens that she can't take back or someone gets hurt? This is a god book for young teenagers or young Adults who like mystery. I would recommend this book it was ok.

[Fay Risner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about an Amish girl that spends her nights spying out her bedroom window on her elderly neighbor. She's trying to figure out what kind of treasures he's buring every night. Going into the crabby man's yard is forbidden by her parents but she slips into the yard when they aren't looking.

[Kristin Schwartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book not realizing it was for young readers. I enjoyed it none the less and finished in one day. I intend on passing it to my daughter to read now. I'd be interested in checking out the others in the series as well.

[Ereynolds1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed this fun little Amish series. Now on to Book 3. Quick read.

[Elizabeth Rocha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

juvenile young teen reading mystery series, book 2 of 3

[Grace Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable little book with a good lesson about minding your own business. Always will love Kathleens books.

[Katie Brohard · Rating 5 out of 5]

cute book. I can't wait to read about Bekah and Caleb when they grow up, lol.

[Drebbles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most Helpful Customer Reviews
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Nice mystery for young readers
By drebbles TOP 1000 REVIEWERVINE VOICE on March 14, 2011Format: Paperback Amazon Vine Review ( What's this? )
Thirteen year old Bekah Yoder loves to read, especially Nancy Drew mysteries. She is a naturally curious person (some would say nosy) and can't help wondering about some things that are happening. Like why has her cousin Amanda come to live with Bekah's family instead of her own family? What is her new next-door neighbor burying in his yard? Who is the scary looking man who has also been hanging around next door? Why is Caleb Mullet teasing her all the time? Bekah can't help poking her nose into places it doesn't belong but she better be careful or her curiosity will leave her into danger.

"The Secrets Beneath" is a nice mystery aimed at readers aged 8 to 12. While Bekah likes to read Nancy Drew mysteries, this book and the one before it (A summer Secret) reminded me more of the Trixie Belden series. Bekah is closer to Trixie's age and like Trixie she is curious - a curiosity that often gets her into trouble with her parents (and sometimes real danger). She is not deliberately naughty, just naturally curious. She is a typical 13-year-old navigating the minefield of friendship and boys. Amanda is a good character - upset over problems at home (author Kathleen Fuller takes her time revealing what those problems are so the reader also has a mystery to solve) and acting out a bit in the hope of getting sent home. Since it is set in the Amish community, religion plays a major part in the book, but the book is never preachy or trying to convert anyone ((in fact, Amanda has some issues with prayer). The mystery is nicely done with some thrilling and scary moments (maybe a bit too scary for readers younger than eight). The Bekah/Caleb moments are cute and will probably make young girls sigh (and again reminded me again of the Trixie Belden books, especially the Trixie Belden/Jim Frayne relationship).

"The Secrets Beneath" is a nice mystery for young readers.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becky Yoder lives in Middlefield, Ohio; a community inhabited by both the Amish and the "Yankees." She is thirteen and very inquisitive. The house next door to her home had been empty for some time, when suddenly odd things start happening. First, there is an old man with a van and then a scary looking man with lots of tattoos. Becky's curiosity is peeked when she sees the old man digging in the backyard at night. What is he doing? Is he burying something or looking for something? Another mystery drops into Becky's lap as her cousin Amanda arrives from Paradise, PA. Becky is very surprised to learn that Amanda may stay with her for the entire school year. She knows she shouldn't spy or but into another person's business, but questions pop into her head anyway. What has happened to Amanda's mother? Will she be able to make Amanda feel welcome and safe? Throughout the story, Becky learns that secrets are secret for a reason. Sometimes you just need to pray for a good outcome even when you don't know everything.

Kathleen Fuller writes about the Amish with knowledge and skill. Her research and love for the people is evident. I have read "adult" books by Ms. Fuller, and was pleased to have the opportunity to read this YA novel, which is the second in her "Mysteries of Middlefield" series. The characters are realistic and the mysteries will keep you guessing until the end. This book will make a great gift for any teenager, and is a wonderful read for adults as well. I received my free copy through the Book Sneeze program and am very happy to write a review for the book. I also recommend any books by Kathleen Fuller to you.

[Diane U · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary from Book Sneeze: Rebekah Yoder loves a good mystery—that is, until she becomes a part of one.

Rebekah Yoder has always been curious . . . or nosy depending on whom you ask. When a Yankee stranger moves into the house next door, she’s fascinated. Who is this strange old man who never waves or smiles? When Bekah sees him digging holes in his back yard, she’s sure there is a case to be solved.

Unfortunately, when her cousin blabs the story to the whole school, rumors fly. Is he hiding something? Treasure? Victims? And worst of all, annoying Caleb Mullet is now determined to solve the mystery with her. What they don’t realize is there’s not just secrecy lurking next door—there’s danger. Will Bekah take her curiosity too far?

But there is more than one case to solve around Rebekah's house. Her visiting cousin is hiding secrets too. What more does an Amish girl need to keep her curious? Follow Rebekah as she finds out more than she wanted to know and learns that being curious can be good, but being nosy is something else. This book was easy to read and had a fun story to follow. It is nice to see how Amish kids live for change from the other adult Amish stories I have read.

[Kristine Coumbe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets Beneath is the second book in series called The Mysteries of Middlefield. All books are geared towards a YA audience about various Amish heroines finding themselves solving various mysteries. The Secrets Bemeath is about Bekah and her love of reading Nancy Drew mysteries. Bekah lves her heroine Nancy Drew so much she wants to solve mysteries too. Bekah has a strong sense of curiousity that she starts looking for oddities/mysteries to solve.Meanwhile, a new neighbormoves in and appears to be sneaking around and up to no good. Naturally the new neighbor's odd behavior catches Bekah's attention. Bekah decides she finally has a mystery to solve.

I have only read The Secrets Beneath from the series and can say it seems to stand on its own. Secrets Beneath has excellent values about obedience to parents and the power of prayer, it lacked in greater knowledge of the Amish. Fuller had a tough task of spinning together a great and memorable yarn, Amish religious beliefs and a book that is both part of a series but able to stand alone. Fuller's writing style is great for all audiences. I did find the mystery is a bit bland, but what else can you expect in an Ammish commmunity? It can move slow at times but overall a very good wholesome book for everyone.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mysteries of Middlefield book 2

Everyone has a secret...

Something strange is going on in Middlefield and Bekah is determined to find out what it is. First she sees a stranger sneaking around the deserted house next door. Then her cousin, Amanda, shows up to live with them for the school year, and no one will tell Bekah why.

When Bekah starts asking questions, Mami(mom) and Daed(Dad) tell her to mind her own business - about Amanda and the house next door. But Bekah just can't resist her curiosity. Just when she thinks she'll be able to crack the case, she ends up putting herself in real danger. Are some secrets best left for God to resolve?

Kathleen Fuller is the author of the best-selling Amish fiction series, Hearts of Middlefield , including A Man Of His Word. When she's not writing, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and pets. She currently lives in Arkansas with her husband and three children.

I couldn't put this book down! I read it all weekend long and loved every minute of it! I read the first 5 chapters on Saturday evening, read up to chapter 18 yesterday and the finished the last 2 chapters this morning with breakfast. I've already requested book three which is Hide and Secret, can't wait to read it!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book is geared toward the young reader, I nevertheless enjoyed reading about a curious 13-year old Amish girl and her desire to solve a mystery. When Bekah's cousin, Amanda, is sent to live with Bekah's family, no one will tell Bekah why. She pieces together that Aunt Caroline has left Amanda & her father but still does not know why. Amanda does not want to be there and she does everything possible to not get involved in the Yoder's activities. Meanwhile, a mysterious old man moves into the vacant farm next door and Bekah sees him digging holes in his backyard late at night, obviously burying things. Even though the girls are warned to stay away, they cannot help trying to find out what Mr. Harvey has buried, which results in Mr. Harvey's son kidnapping Bekah because he thinks she knows where his money is buried. Amanda saves the day, calls her father back in Pennsylvania, then the police. Turns out Mr. Harvey's son is an escaped convict and very mean. Eventually, Amanda learns to love living with Bekah's family and we are told the reason why her mother left. All in all, a very enjoyable story and a nice change of pace.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though I am not a tweet or , I fell in love with this book. The characters where wholesome and genuine. The book was a fast read for any age group. It was about a young Amish teenager who was not your every day Amish teenager. It all starts when her cousin comes to visit not for a few days but for the entire school year. The cousin is basically dropped off as her father returns to tend to his farm. Soon enough the main character Bekah finds out why the cousin is staying so long. This is the premise for the book, finding out.

The book kept you reading. You won't want to put the book down. It has good morals and family values that we all had or want growing up. I would love to read another book in this series.

You fall in love with the scenes which are well written.

I received this book for free in exchange for 2 reviews.

[Benjamin Devon Sweitzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally Cool

This book is awesome! The characters were better developed than the first and the mystery was great even a little intense at some parts. This is a good read for children between 8 to 108. You're never to old to read these. Great work Kathleen Fuller. Keep up the good work.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for 12-13 year old girls. I liked how the characters' voices weighed their options when they had to make a choice: I think it's good for teens and preteens to see how other kids see choice and consequence, and that they actually do stop and think about things. Nice story.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice little story. Great for a preteen girl. An interesting look at modern Amish life.

[Alisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reminded me of my self a little. Cute story! Wish my kids will be that good when older

[Annie Harley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really great book.

[Megan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Eh, it was ok but def meant for a pre-teen crowd.

[Karen Carmody · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story but is wasn't as suspenseful as the first one. I am still looking forward to the 3rd one though.

[Carla Conley · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good read! Love mysteries!

[Cynthia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fun mystery for early teens.

[Michelle Wegner · Rating 2 out of 5]

So far, it's so-so...I don't think it would keep my girls' attention, but haven't given up yet.

[Isabelle]

Well I read the first The secret summer so I really want to finish this one two.