I am really enjoying this wonderful story of Bethany and Silas. They are both having to learn to put their trust in God. They have both endured some painful times and are learning to overcome them. This has to be one of my favorite books by Laura that I have read. Everything is well written and is really keeping my interest and I don't want to put it down. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I have given of my own free will. Don't forget the giveaway at the end. ( )

Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Amish Wanderer by Laura V. Hilton, © 2017

What makes a wanderer? Could it include one who travels without leaving home? Bethany Weiss is seeking relief from a lack of protection. To be honored, loved, and respected by the very ones she should be able to trust is a deep desire unfounded. Silas Beiler has returned to town. Bethany was able to join her faith and trust in Silas when they were younger. Could it be he has come to rescue her?

Jamesport, Missouri, is a visitor haven for the Englischers seeking to purchase home goods the Amish have made. Jams, jellies, homemade pies, quilts of many patterns, fine woodworking; warmth within and without. But this story is not about the Englischers, it is about those within its borders. Extremely well-written!

My favorite secondary characters are Preacher Samuel, his frau, Elsie, and their nephew Josh and his frau, Greta. They see with eyes of vision and not reproach, of what can be, not hampered by what has been. By being listeners they are able to be hearers of the heart. They have drawn more to der Herr with their love than any words of question could. We all seek a heart that hears us. A word that is spoken in due season also takes a heart that is ready and will listen.

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. --Romans 8:38-39

Fear runs from the unknown. Silas finds that his fear binds him until truth sets him free. It is necessary for him to face his fear. The darkness holds no bond to the light of Christ's Word to never leave us. This story brings hope and a release from struggles when guided correctly from love and not control.

Amish Wanderer bears reading more than once. Much wisdom and care bring truth to the light. Lives saved that could have remained in bondage to lies and deceit are released. Generations will be able to go forward in the freedom they have been given. Overcomers!

***Thank you, Celebrate Lit for inviting me to be a part of the Amish Wanderer book tour. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.*** ( )

The Amish Wanderer by Laura Hilton is definitely not your typical Amish romance book. Hilton writes with rich, expressively pointed prose to tell a story of two young people who each feel running away is the only option to deal with the issues in their lives. As Hilton deals with difficult subject matter, she does it with finesse and discretion. Bethany is just trying to be the Bishop's good daughter, yet is afraid of the consequences of obedience. If she wants to survive, she feels the only way out is to flee the circumstances. Silas is on the move, having left his destructive family background to search for a safe harbor to begin life anew. Bethany desperately just wants Silas to take her with him as he moves on. They are two flawed and wounded people but will running away solve things? Can this truly be the only way to right the wrongs of the past? The author expertly weaves romance with mystery, action-packed scenes to show the kinship and curative influence of a small community and the importance of forgiveness and faith in difficult situations--the knowing that God sometimes works in the shadows.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. ( )