November 28, 2016
Gould’s third Neighbors of Lancaster County novel (after Amish Sweethearts) draws readers back into the joy and heartache of faith, family, and friendship. Rose used to be the wild child of her family, but at age 18 she decides to reform her ways and join the church. She quickly sets her sights on Reuben, the man whose heart was broken by her sister Lila. While she’s certain that Reuben returns her interest, her head is turned by a visiting Englischer, Trevor. To complicate matters, Rose’s newfound maturity is tested even further when Lila is involved in a serious accident, leaving Rose to step up and take over the running of her father’s household and care of their younger sister, Trudy. The narrative flows beautifully through the differing narrations of Rose, Lila, Reuben, and Zane, Lila’s intended. Each voice is well defined and brings a balanced perspective to a complex story that digs deeply into Amish culture and shatters some preconceived notions about Amish interactions with their non-Amish neighbors. Gould evokes true emotion as she examines contemporary situations through a critical, yet loving, lens. Agent: Chip MacGregor, MacGregor Literary Agency
February 1, 2017
Romantic possibilities complicate the lives of the neighboring Beck and Lehman families. Zane Beck decides to convert to the Amish faith to build a life with Lila Lehman, while Lila's sister Rose is courted by the bishop's son, Reuben Byler. The couple hope to announce their marriage when Lila is seriously injured in a terrible buggy accident. After meeting Zane's old army buddy, Trevor, Rose begins to doubt her feelings for Reuben. Gould's narrative flows well despite the convoluted plotlines and large cast of characters, both of which might deter new readers. VERDICT Fans of the first two books (Amish Promises; Amish Sweethearts) will line up for Gould's trilogy finale, although the actions of some of the characters may surprise or disappoint those readers anticipating a different outcome.
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