(Review is by Gretchen of “The Sacred Line Lit”)

“Nobody said it out loud, but everyone in the Johns Mill Amish community knew that if Emma Hochstedler had been less pleasing to look at, the Englischers would likely have lost interest by now.”

Emma and Sam are childhood friends, but she has always had his heart. Sam has waited in the sidelines for her and tried to be her protector. When Emma offers to help take care of his aunt, will that change everything finally?

This book has some plot points that are key to what the characters learn throughout this book. I am going to avoid spoilers and instead talk about the lessons learned.

-Service. This book focuses on doing our best for others even when we are not appreciated or acknowledged. Hard to live out!
-Work. Does what we do matter? Are we more than our job?
-Attitude. Do we have the right to be cranky if life does not go our way?
-Family vs. community. Who should take responsibility when we cannot handle life on our own? Should it always be family? Or should our circles be bigger than that?

I feel like the author does a good job of presenting the Amish faith while avoiding stereotypes that can happen in this genre. She remains consistent with the ideals. While scenes do not take place at church, their pious lifestyle is evident. I rarely read Amish fiction, but I am glad to read books by this author.

I think Stina Nelson is the perfect narrator for this book. Her voice is soothing. I could listen comfortably at a faster speed. Her pronunciation of some of the German words that are included did not seem forced. I think this book is enjoyable whether you listen to it or read the pages.

This is book two in a series. I would recommend reading book one first. But the author does summarize the plot of book 1 enough that readers could probably follow along with one.
I did receive a complimentary print copy of this book and an audio book as well. I wanted to review it. All opinions are my own.