Shelley Shepard Gray

This was a different type of "Amish" story. I say Amish because that is typically the genre that this author writes but in this one the main characters are no longer Amish but not because they have been shunned but rather by circumstances that have happened in their lives.

We meet Tabitha who has been divorced and the circumstances in which this happens are atrocious. She has been in an extremely abusive marriage but despite all that hurt the Amish community sees divorce almost as a sin so she is basically pulled out of the community. Seth is our other main character and he has served in prison for protecting a friend from assault. Because of this he also is removed from the community. Seth is a protector and has liked Tabitha since he was younger. He makes sure that she is taken care of and watches over her.

I really enjoyed seeing the progress between these two characters. Tabitha really came out of her shell and made sure she stood up for herself. I also liked that the romance between them didn't move very fast as she was dealing with some really heavy stuff so I appreciated the author being realistic about this and moving at a slower pace.

I must admit that the suspense part of the story could have been a bit more extreme for me but it suited the story. Overall I thought it was a good story and if you are looking for a new Amish suspense story then you should try this one. Just beware that it does have some triggers such as mentions of abusive marriage and sexual assaults.

I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.… (altro)

Set in Holmes County, Ohio, A is for Amish commences the Amish ABCs series which follows the Schrock siblings—Martin, Kelsey, Beth, and Jonny—Englishers who have decided they need a life change, and becoming Amish may be the solution. This first book in the series is Martin and Kelsey’s story. I love Kelsey and the way her romantic relationship with Richard develops, but I had a hard time connecting with Martin. His indecisiveness became quite tedious. I was also drawn to the other two siblings Beth and Jonny. The story features interesting characters, a slow-paced and character-driven plot, an authentic Amish setting, a gentle faith thread, and a touch of romance. Although this book did not meet all my expectations, it was still an enjoyable read, and I think fans of Amish fiction will enjoy it. Since there is a “to be continued” ending, I will in all probability read future books in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.… (altro)

Tabitha Yoder and Seth Zimmerman find friendship as they adapt to the judgment and isolation imposed on them by the Amish community that should be supporting them. I loved watching Tabitha blossom under Seth's efforts to help her, and I was equally touched by Seth's longtime crush on his former teacher and his determination to protect her when her ex-husband reappears. Author Shelley Shepard Gray proves that she is capable of writing in almost every genre as she shares their compelling story that's set in Crittenden County, Kentucky. I was moved by the special connection between Tabitha and Seth, fascinated by the added dynamics provided by the other characters, and completely invested in the continuing drama!

Unforgiven is a story of damaged trust, unreasonable judgments, and the inability to forgive. It is a captivating blend of romance, suspense, and faith, and it offers many profound truths while asking one powerful question. Why is it easier to forgive others than it is to forgive ourselves?

This is one of my favorite books by this author and I can't wait to read more of this new series!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Revell Reads. There was no obligation for a positive review.… (altro)

I was impressed with the tough issues this author was willing to tackle in this fictional novel. I thought she handled the mentions of abuse in a past relationship with sensitivity and did a good job highlighting some of the struggles women in violent domestic situations can face. It was also interesting to read how this was particularly handled in an Amish community, which added a layer of complexity to the story. I really liked Seth. He is a great example of someone who is not perfect but who used his past to learn and grow. The story is filled with spiritual truths and easily kept my attention. Despite some hard struggles, the story ends with hope and it is well worth the read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.… (altro)