The Preacher's Daughter by Beverly Lewis

I have enjoyed all of Lewis’ books, and this one was no exception. Lewis’ style of writing pulls the reader completely into whatever setting is currently on the page. Although Lewis often sets her books in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, a fair amount of this book’s action is also set in Colorado. The book, the first in a trilogy entitled “Annie’s People,” focuses on two young women, Louise and Annie, who are trying to find their path in life. Annie is part of an Old Order Amish family, and her secret desires to be an artist have been forbidden by church doctrine. Louise has just ended her engagement and fled her over-bearing parents to stay with Annie and her “simple life.” The climax of the story pulls together not only the two girls’ desires and their future, but also their faiths and beliefs, which once again establishes this as a Christian fiction book. I thought this was a wonderful book, but my opinion could be biased because I identified strongly with both major characters. Not to sound very gushy or over-dramatic, but at times the characters in this book were saying and doing things that I have said and done in my own past. While this could be considered “chick lit,” I think it has appeal to all ages and both genders. Both characters are entirely complete and believable, and I am anxious to read the rest of the trilogy, which has already been published.

If you enjoyed this book, please consider one of the following :
Fiction Recommendation : The Englisher by Beverly Lewis. This is the sequel to Lewis’ The Preacher’s Daughter, and continues the story of everyone in Paradise, Lancaster County.

Nonfiction Recommendation : Amish Women: Lives & Stories by Louise Stoltzfus. This is a lovely book written by an Amish woman, explaining her life and values, and those of 10 other women of her community. A wonderful nonfiction resource to those readers who wish to learn more about the Amish Community.