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The Wish
A Compelling Story of Friendship from the Top Author in Amish Fiction
Leona Speicher got the "sister" she'd always dreamed of the day Gloria Gingerich and her family moved to Lancaster County Amish farmland. The Arkansas newcomers seem to be everything a devout Plain family should be, and Leona can't help comparing Gloria's engaging young parents to her own.
Leona's cousin shows a romantic interest in Gloria around the same time as Gloria's older brother expresses his fondness for Leona--it seems likely the two young women will marry into each other's families, remaining close friends for life. Thus, Leona is shocked when the Gingeriches suddenly pack up and disappear after being expelled from the church for reasons no one will discuss. Despite Leona's pleas, Gloria goes with them, leaving more than one broken heart behind.
When Gloria unexpectedly contacts Leona after a silence of several years, Leona makes up her mind to persuade her friend to return to Lancaster County and the Amish ways. Leona's new beau, the deacon's son, is alarmed when Leona decides to go after Gloria. Will Leona's dearest wish lead to her own undoing?
Leona Speicher got the "sister" she'd always dreamed of the day Gloria Gingerich and her family moved to Lancaster County Amish farmland. The Arkansas newcomers seem to be everything a devout Plain family should be, and Leona can't help comparing Gloria's engaging young parents to her own.
Leona's cousin shows a romantic interest in Gloria around the same time as Gloria's older brother expresses his fondness for Leona--it seems likely the two young women will marry into each other's families, remaining close friends for life. Thus, Leona is shocked when the Gingeriches suddenly pack up and disappear after being expelled from the church for reasons no one will discuss. Despite Leona's pleas, Gloria goes with them, leaving more than one broken heart behind.
When Gloria unexpectedly contacts Leona after a silence of several years, Leona makes up her mind to persuade her friend to return to Lancaster County and the Amish ways. Leona's new beau, the deacon's son, is alarmed when Leona decides to go after Gloria. Will Leona's dearest wish lead to her own undoing?
Hardcover
First published September 1, 2016
283 people are currently reading
1448 people want to read
About the author
Beverly Lewis
259 books3,014 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country and both a schoolteacher and an accomplished musician, has been an award-winning author for over a dozen years. Her acclaimed novel, The Preacher's Daughter, was a 2006 Quill Book Award finalist in the romance category. Her books have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and The New York Times. She and her husband, David, live in Colorado."
Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country and both a schoolteacher and an accomplished musician, has been an award-winning author for over a dozen years. Her acclaimed novel, The Preacher's Daughter, was a 2006 Quill Book Award finalist in the romance category. Her books have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and The New York Times. She and her husband, David, live in Colorado."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
July 24, 2017
5 of 5 stars
Ahh, this was such a satisfying read. :) I hadn't read any Amish fiction since...February? So it was great to be back in the world of Pennsylvania Dutch, horse drawn buggies, and simplistic living. I read the majority of it in three or four days, but if I hadn't had other things to keep up with I could have (and would have!) settled down and read it all at once. :) It had an engaging plot line, lovable characters, and an ending that allowed me to breathe a sigh of contentment and go to bed without a headful of questions.
I know a lot of people think 'romance' when they hear Amish fiction, but this one really wasn't centered on that. Sure, there was mentions of a courtship and a sweet moment or two, but that was really all. :)
> Leona was such a sweet, innocent girl! I enjoyed reading her POV and her loving concern for her friend Gloria made her so endearing. :)
> Gloria was an interesting character. I wasn't sure what to make of her at first, but in the end I loved her too. :) Her struggle with what she wanted with her life was very realistic, and I appreciated how she didn't just wake up one morning and suddenly know what she was going to do – as seems to happen too often in books.
> Tom was a super sweet guy character in the book. I loved he and Leona's courtship!! <3 And while I'm talking about Tom, I just have to mention Danny – Tom's younger, deaf brother. He was a minor character, only mentioned a handful of times, but I really enjoyed his parts. :) (By the way, I would totally love a sequel or a short spin-off story with him and Linda...just sayin'... ;))
> Orchard John... Oh goodness, where do I begin?! How he pined over *her* all those years shows how sincere his heart, and he was just such a great guy! I loved his name too. I mean, who doesn't want a cousin named Orchard John who takes walks with his girl and loans books? ;)
And lastly, I just have to say that I loved the character of Dawdi Benuel. Such a sweet grandpa! <3
Overall, this was an amazing book. I would heartily recommend it! :)
**I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.**
Ahh, this was such a satisfying read. :) I hadn't read any Amish fiction since...February? So it was great to be back in the world of Pennsylvania Dutch, horse drawn buggies, and simplistic living. I read the majority of it in three or four days, but if I hadn't had other things to keep up with I could have (and would have!) settled down and read it all at once. :) It had an engaging plot line, lovable characters, and an ending that allowed me to breathe a sigh of contentment and go to bed without a headful of questions.
I know a lot of people think 'romance' when they hear Amish fiction, but this one really wasn't centered on that. Sure, there was mentions of a courtship and a sweet moment or two, but that was really all. :)
> Leona was such a sweet, innocent girl! I enjoyed reading her POV and her loving concern for her friend Gloria made her so endearing. :)
> Gloria was an interesting character. I wasn't sure what to make of her at first, but in the end I loved her too. :) Her struggle with what she wanted with her life was very realistic, and I appreciated how she didn't just wake up one morning and suddenly know what she was going to do – as seems to happen too often in books.
> Tom was a super sweet guy character in the book. I loved he and Leona's courtship!! <3 And while I'm talking about Tom, I just have to mention Danny – Tom's younger, deaf brother. He was a minor character, only mentioned a handful of times, but I really enjoyed his parts. :) (By the way, I would totally love a sequel or a short spin-off story with him and Linda...just sayin'... ;))
> Orchard John... Oh goodness, where do I begin?! How he pined over *her* all those years shows how sincere his heart, and he was just such a great guy! I loved his name too. I mean, who doesn't want a cousin named Orchard John who takes walks with his girl and loans books? ;)
And lastly, I just have to say that I loved the character of Dawdi Benuel. Such a sweet grandpa! <3
Overall, this was an amazing book. I would heartily recommend it! :)
**I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.**
October 25, 2020
A beautiful story of faith, family, forgiveness, and new beginnings. Fans of Amish fiction will love it!
December 8, 2021
This was an enjoyable best-friends story. Every twist and turn made me want to learn more about these characters. The narrator did a fantastic job with the audio version too.
October 11, 2016
Every time I open a book by Beverly Lewis I feel like I'm coming home. I don't know if it's because she is the first Amish fiction author I ever read or if her distinctive style just lulls me into another world -- maybe a bit of both. But I love it. Love feeling settled in a read, deriving comfort from a story well-told that leaves me with lots to ponder by the end. And The Wish fits that criteria perfectly.
While this is an Amish story, the issues at the heart of this tale are completely relatable to all of us. Leona is intent on helping a friend. She's pure of heart and earnest in her desire to help Gloria come back to the church. And while that journey is fraught with complications and difficulties for her friend, Leona learns an important lesson about being in relationship within her own family.
Gloria has been living a conflicted life -- ripped away from the Amish community she loved by her father's decree, she has been living Englisch for years. Suddenly faced with a pivotal decision she finds herself at a crossroads. Both Gloria and Leona are on a journey of self-discovery and that makes The Wish a compelling and thought-provoking read.
A sweet story sure to lift your spirit and fill your heart with the certainty of God's all encompassing love.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
While this is an Amish story, the issues at the heart of this tale are completely relatable to all of us. Leona is intent on helping a friend. She's pure of heart and earnest in her desire to help Gloria come back to the church. And while that journey is fraught with complications and difficulties for her friend, Leona learns an important lesson about being in relationship within her own family.
Gloria has been living a conflicted life -- ripped away from the Amish community she loved by her father's decree, she has been living Englisch for years. Suddenly faced with a pivotal decision she finds herself at a crossroads. Both Gloria and Leona are on a journey of self-discovery and that makes The Wish a compelling and thought-provoking read.
A sweet story sure to lift your spirit and fill your heart with the certainty of God's all encompassing love.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
November 25, 2016
My thoughts: First, the disclaimer. "I was provided a free paperback copy of this book. All opinions are my own." That done, as with most readers of Amish fiction I was introduced to Beverly Lewis by her first books and I fell in love. I couldn't wait for the newest Beverly Lewis books to hit the shelves.
THE WISH is a stand-alone women's fiction Amish story. There is no plot, the story is told and not shown and I felt distant from the characters, and worse, I didn't care what happened to them!
The intro - above - says that Beverly Lewis is the top Amish author, I suggest that Ms. Lewis has lost her title. There are so many better Amish authors out there. I won't name names because if I do, they will be MY favorites, and there are Amish authors out there that are fan-favorites and I won't read their books. But if you tried THE WISH and didn't like it, don't give up on the genre. Try another author. However, if you love Beverly Lewis and women's fiction set in Amish country, then give THE WISH a try. Don't take my word for it because you opinion is the one that matters.
September 10, 2018
Leona Speicher found the “sister” that she’d always dreamed of having on the day Gloria Gingerich and her family moved to the Lancaster County Amish community. The Arkansas newcomers seem to be the very model of everything that a devout, old Order Amish family should be. Leona can’t help but compare their lively family and engaging, young parents to her own family. When the girls get a little older, Leona’s cousin shows his romantic interest in Gloria around the same time that Gloria’s older brother expresses his fondness for Leona. It looks likely that the two girls will marry into each other’s families, cementing the bonds of their friendship and “sisterhood.” But, suddenly, to Leona’s shock the entire Gingerich family packs up and disappears after their father finds himself expelled from the church for reasons nobody is willing to discuss. Despite Leona’s heartfelt pleas, Gloria accompanies her family, leaving more than one broken heart in their wake. When Gloria unexpectedly reaches out to Leona, after a silence of several years, Leona makes up her mind that it’s up to her to convince her old friend to return to both Lancaster County and her Amish faith, even though her fiancé, the deacon’s son, is concerned about her going into the Englisher world after her friend.
I’ve always loved Beverly Lewis’s Amish books. She has such a knack for storytelling and for writing characters that you can’t help but love. The Wish is another example of her immense talent. It’s a beautiful story of love and the bonds of friendship, and that blood isn’t always what makes a family. It also makes a strong case about not comparing your family to anyone else’s because, no matter how close you are, you don’t always see everything as clearly as you do from inside the other family. I enjoyed every moment of reading this book. There are so many positive, uplifting themes to this story, but that’s definitely the norm for a Beverly Lewis novel.
I’ve always loved Beverly Lewis’s Amish books. She has such a knack for storytelling and for writing characters that you can’t help but love. The Wish is another example of her immense talent. It’s a beautiful story of love and the bonds of friendship, and that blood isn’t always what makes a family. It also makes a strong case about not comparing your family to anyone else’s because, no matter how close you are, you don’t always see everything as clearly as you do from inside the other family. I enjoyed every moment of reading this book. There are so many positive, uplifting themes to this story, but that’s definitely the norm for a Beverly Lewis novel.
January 25, 2022
3.75/5 ⭐️
A good story about how distance doesn’t really matter when friendship is concerned. I liked the smooth writting style as well.
A good story about how distance doesn’t really matter when friendship is concerned. I liked the smooth writting style as well.
May 24, 2022
This was a sweet story about friendship, finding out what is important to you, making your own decisions and how friendship and unconditional love and play an important role to lead others to God.
I loved the narrator - the accent of the Amish well delivered and being a South African, I learned how to correctly pronounce Arkansas 😊.
*I listened to this on Scribd.*
I loved the narrator - the accent of the Amish well delivered and being a South African, I learned how to correctly pronounce Arkansas 😊.
*I listened to this on Scribd.*
October 7, 2016
The Wish by Beverly Lewis is a romantic Amish novel and I really enjoyed it. It explores the differences between the Amish and English way of life. Both exert different pulls in different ways. Life can become confusing as the teens wonder where they fit in. The important thing is to listen to the Lord's calling. "O Lord please guide me in all I say and do."
There are many competing voices in life. Family can exert pressure to conform to the parent's way of thinking but it is not always the correct way for the youngsters. "This family sticks together." Whilst it is important to obey your parents, it is more important to obey God.
The novel is about friendship. "Forever friends are sometimes closer than kinfolk." Forever friends survive the test of time and distance. Forever friends always want the best for each other. Forever friends live out 1 Corinthians: 13. Forever friends love each other and do not judge. "It wasn't his place to sit in judgment."
Life with God at the centre is a fulfilling life. We all have a hole that only God can fill. "The Lord Gotte calls us one by one." Whilst we are all Christians together, we all have a unique walk with God. It can be tempting to speed up someone else's journey and try to do God's job for Him. There are lessons to be learnt along the way and we must be patient and wait for God's perfect timing. "Waiting for God's timing in hopeful trust."
There is the theme of the grass always being greener. Best friends Leona and Gloria both have a secret desire to be part of the other's family. They are dissatisfied with their own parents. As they each journey through life, they realise that the grass is not always greener and their blessings need to be counted.
The theme of steadfastness is in the story. There are some people you just know you can always rely on. They will always want the very best for you and will not let you down. It is a matter of where you place your trust. Our heavenly Father can always be trusted with our one and only life.
The elder statesman Dawdi is a wonderful character, full of love and wisdom. His part in the story is not prominent but it is significant.
Forgiveness and letting go are dual themes. The past needs to be dealt with if it is holding us back. Forgiveness must be given because without doing so means we may become bitter. God tells us to forgive. It is not negotiable. We have to do it.
Prayer is of vital importance. Sometimes all we can do is pray and then step back and wait for God to act. "God isn't limited by our time frame or expectations."
There is the theme of the prodigals. Sometimes people are "trying to hide from God." There is nowhere to hide, as the psalmist reminds us. There are a great many lost people and we must "never turn our backs on the lost." It is too easy to wander from God as pressures from life intrude. We need to pray and help the prodigals find their way home.
I loved The Wish with its simple Amish life and a great sense of love, friendship and community. God is very much at the heart. Customs are observed. I 'felt' very much a part of the community as I turned the pages. I can highly recommend The Wish and I shall certainly be hunting out more by Beverly Lewis.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
There are many competing voices in life. Family can exert pressure to conform to the parent's way of thinking but it is not always the correct way for the youngsters. "This family sticks together." Whilst it is important to obey your parents, it is more important to obey God.
The novel is about friendship. "Forever friends are sometimes closer than kinfolk." Forever friends survive the test of time and distance. Forever friends always want the best for each other. Forever friends live out 1 Corinthians: 13. Forever friends love each other and do not judge. "It wasn't his place to sit in judgment."
Life with God at the centre is a fulfilling life. We all have a hole that only God can fill. "The Lord Gotte calls us one by one." Whilst we are all Christians together, we all have a unique walk with God. It can be tempting to speed up someone else's journey and try to do God's job for Him. There are lessons to be learnt along the way and we must be patient and wait for God's perfect timing. "Waiting for God's timing in hopeful trust."
There is the theme of the grass always being greener. Best friends Leona and Gloria both have a secret desire to be part of the other's family. They are dissatisfied with their own parents. As they each journey through life, they realise that the grass is not always greener and their blessings need to be counted.
The theme of steadfastness is in the story. There are some people you just know you can always rely on. They will always want the very best for you and will not let you down. It is a matter of where you place your trust. Our heavenly Father can always be trusted with our one and only life.
The elder statesman Dawdi is a wonderful character, full of love and wisdom. His part in the story is not prominent but it is significant.
Forgiveness and letting go are dual themes. The past needs to be dealt with if it is holding us back. Forgiveness must be given because without doing so means we may become bitter. God tells us to forgive. It is not negotiable. We have to do it.
Prayer is of vital importance. Sometimes all we can do is pray and then step back and wait for God to act. "God isn't limited by our time frame or expectations."
There is the theme of the prodigals. Sometimes people are "trying to hide from God." There is nowhere to hide, as the psalmist reminds us. There are a great many lost people and we must "never turn our backs on the lost." It is too easy to wander from God as pressures from life intrude. We need to pray and help the prodigals find their way home.
I loved The Wish with its simple Amish life and a great sense of love, friendship and community. God is very much at the heart. Customs are observed. I 'felt' very much a part of the community as I turned the pages. I can highly recommend The Wish and I shall certainly be hunting out more by Beverly Lewis.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
November 29, 2016
I was sure I was born into the wrong family. I wanted to belong to yours.
Leona Speicher and Gloria Gingerich were the best of friends. Leona being only child, longed to have the family that Gloria had. They shared as friends do, their secrets, their longings, and their hopes. But one day Gloria's family suddenly moved away. Leona not knowing the details only that Gloria's father had a falling out with the elders of the community. Instead of desiring to work it out, he took his family far away from the Amish community and from then on lived as an English man with all the trappings of the world. Gloria had promised Leona that she would write but Leona never heard from her or where her family decided to settle. She missed her good friend and the ties that they shared. Life went on for Leona as she always wondered and prayed for her friend until her friend sent her letter requesting to visit her in the town where family now lived.
When Gloria and Leona reunite, the friendship continues as Leona see's how Gloria's heart is in turmoil between the Amish and the English. How Gloria carries the sins of her father and learns to trust God again with her own faith.
It is a wonderful narration of friendship and the pull of the heart. Where a friend walks alongside as you walk thru your feelings to know your true desires and heart. It is a friendship that is based on truth and finding yourself back into God's will. I appreciated the pull of Gloria's heart and the faithfulness of Leona's heart. A true friendship not based what is easy but what is hard. A friendship that takes the time to listen to the groaning's of longings not met. A true blessing to read.
A Special Thank You to Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Leona Speicher and Gloria Gingerich were the best of friends. Leona being only child, longed to have the family that Gloria had. They shared as friends do, their secrets, their longings, and their hopes. But one day Gloria's family suddenly moved away. Leona not knowing the details only that Gloria's father had a falling out with the elders of the community. Instead of desiring to work it out, he took his family far away from the Amish community and from then on lived as an English man with all the trappings of the world. Gloria had promised Leona that she would write but Leona never heard from her or where her family decided to settle. She missed her good friend and the ties that they shared. Life went on for Leona as she always wondered and prayed for her friend until her friend sent her letter requesting to visit her in the town where family now lived.
When Gloria and Leona reunite, the friendship continues as Leona see's how Gloria's heart is in turmoil between the Amish and the English. How Gloria carries the sins of her father and learns to trust God again with her own faith.
It is a wonderful narration of friendship and the pull of the heart. Where a friend walks alongside as you walk thru your feelings to know your true desires and heart. It is a friendship that is based on truth and finding yourself back into God's will. I appreciated the pull of Gloria's heart and the faithfulness of Leona's heart. A true friendship not based what is easy but what is hard. A friendship that takes the time to listen to the groaning's of longings not met. A true blessing to read.
A Special Thank You to Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 20, 2018
So, y'all should know that I did read this practically in a day. That said, it was interesting enough to get me to plow through, but not interesting enough for me to love. I'll explain in a second.
Little bit of history: I've enjoyed several of Beverly Lewis' books, like "The Shunning", "Saving Sarah Cain", and "The Sumemrfield Secrets." I'm familiar with her writing style and plot techniques, so when I saw this on the list of books I could review, I grabbed it in a heartbeat. But while it kept me occupied for 10 hrs., unfortunately it just didn't meet the cut for me. Now I'll explain... in list form!... Read the full review on my blog: http://thrivinghope.blogspot.com
Little bit of history: I've enjoyed several of Beverly Lewis' books, like "The Shunning", "Saving Sarah Cain", and "The Sumemrfield Secrets." I'm familiar with her writing style and plot techniques, so when I saw this on the list of books I could review, I grabbed it in a heartbeat. But while it kept me occupied for 10 hrs., unfortunately it just didn't meet the cut for me. Now I'll explain... in list form!... Read the full review on my blog: http://thrivinghope.blogspot.com
December 24, 2016
This was a sweet story about friendship and family with a little bit of romance.
February 1, 2017
I don't think I've read Beverly Lewis books before (aside from probably a couple that I just don't remember XD), but if this book is an indicator, I'm going to love her books!
This book is so sweet. It's about two girls who become "sisters" and have a super strong bond...until one of them, Gloria suddenly moves away.
Three years later, she suddenly contacts Leona (the other girl), because she is in trouble. Leona decides to go after Gloria and help her.
I really appreciate how God-centered the book is: they are constantly praying and hoping for return to the church.
I like how this book was so different from all other Amish fiction, whether romance or not. It's not very romantic (although there is some, which I guess apparently is a crucial part in all Amish teenage life?), but focused instead on the friendship between Gloria and Leona, and the storyline is just so good.
There was a beautiful ending, everything resolved, without any more questions as to "what next?"
Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for sending me a free print copy for my honest review; I was not required to write a positive review.
This book is so sweet. It's about two girls who become "sisters" and have a super strong bond...until one of them, Gloria suddenly moves away.
Three years later, she suddenly contacts Leona (the other girl), because she is in trouble. Leona decides to go after Gloria and help her.
I really appreciate how God-centered the book is: they are constantly praying and hoping for return to the church.
I like how this book was so different from all other Amish fiction, whether romance or not. It's not very romantic (although there is some, which I guess apparently is a crucial part in all Amish teenage life?), but focused instead on the friendship between Gloria and Leona, and the storyline is just so good.
There was a beautiful ending, everything resolved, without any more questions as to "what next?"
Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for sending me a free print copy for my honest review; I was not required to write a positive review.
June 11, 2018
This was a book club pick and I'll be the first to admit that this isn't a book I necessarily would have chosen to read on my own, so maybe I have no business reviewing it. The author clearly has a following and I don't want to take away from that. This book just did not work for me on a very fundamental level. Lewis has allegedly written enough books (more than 90 according to her author bio) that I would think she might know to inject some actual conflict into her stories. The only times this book approached having any, it was so quickly and pleasantly resolved that it felt entirely contrived. The characters had almost no depth (I assume even the Amish have personalities) and I really felt like the entire book was more superficial sketch of Amish culture than it was novel with a plot. Again, I don't like leaving negative reviews in general and readers who are fans of Lewis's work will probably enjoy this perfectly pleasant little read, too. It definitely wasn't for me and if Lewis is a book club pick in the future, I'll probably skip it.
March 14, 2023
Another brilliant book by Beverly Lewis!
Oh, I really loved both of the main characters. I related to Leona at the beginning of the book, then later, I related to Gloria. I thought the way the plot was written was very interesting.
I really liked how this book focus on following God's pathway for your life, and that it comes down to your choice to follow God or not, and not your families. Such a great topic!
I did want more information regarding Gloria's family and what happened to them in the end, but I understand this story was more about Leona and Gloria, so that is why they really weren't mentioned in the end. But a small plot line was tied up in the, end regarding Gloria's Dad, so that was really nice to read about.
Overall, another great read by Beverly Lewis!
Oh, I really loved both of the main characters. I related to Leona at the beginning of the book, then later, I related to Gloria. I thought the way the plot was written was very interesting.
I really liked how this book focus on following God's pathway for your life, and that it comes down to your choice to follow God or not, and not your families. Such a great topic!
I did want more information regarding Gloria's family and what happened to them in the end, but I understand this story was more about Leona and Gloria, so that is why they really weren't mentioned in the end. But a small plot line was tied up in the, end regarding Gloria's Dad, so that was really nice to read about.
Overall, another great read by Beverly Lewis!
November 27, 2017
I love the books of Beverly Lewis. I have read them all. All the books are quick reads, but they make the reader feel like they are in the story, in the little towns, in the lives of the characters. Great.
March 7, 2019
The Wish was a wonderful read! I really enjoyed the friendship of the two girls and understood how they thought of each other like sisters. I am an only child too so I always dreamed of having a friend that was like a sister.
March 27, 2019
I have read at least a dozen and a half of this prolific author's Amish novels, and this one is definitely one of my favorites!
Leona and Gloria are childhood friends in an Amish community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. They each secretly wish they were sisters and were living in each other's house. At age eighteen, Gloria is forced to move to Arkansas with her shunned family after her father's misdeeds against members of the Plain community are revealed.
Fast forward three-plus years until Gloria and Leona are twenty-one . . . I won't tell any more details of this fascinating plot because I don't want to ruin it for anyone who would like to read the book--The themes of family loyalty versus loyalty to God and supporting friends in times of need run through this enter story. This is a powerful story with a lot of positive advice and a loving outlook on faith and life revealed through the supporting characters in the story.
Highly-recommended to fans of Christian fiction, Amish fiction, Christian romance, Amish romance, inspirational romance, clean romance, and stories about friendship between women.
I borrowed this book from the local public library.
**This book is completely clean in language and content. :0}
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Leona and Gloria are childhood friends in an Amish community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. They each secretly wish they were sisters and were living in each other's house. At age eighteen, Gloria is forced to move to Arkansas with her shunned family after her father's misdeeds against members of the Plain community are revealed.
Fast forward three-plus years until Gloria and Leona are twenty-one . . . I won't tell any more details of this fascinating plot because I don't want to ruin it for anyone who would like to read the book--The themes of family loyalty versus loyalty to God and supporting friends in times of need run through this enter story. This is a powerful story with a lot of positive advice and a loving outlook on faith and life revealed through the supporting characters in the story.
Highly-recommended to fans of Christian fiction, Amish fiction, Christian romance, Amish romance, inspirational romance, clean romance, and stories about friendship between women.
I borrowed this book from the local public library.
**This book is completely clean in language and content. :0}
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Read
August 28, 2016While there is romance in this book, please be advised that the romance is not the main focus, nor is the romance anything that a child should not read! There is no sex, and actually, I think there's only like 2-3 scenes where there is any kissing at all. That is it. It's an Amish book, so it's very clean. I really enjoyed the story line behind it. I'm thinking this is the first book of Beverly Lewis's that I have ever read, and I can honestly say that I'm hooked on her writing and her Amish Stories. The Amish life is something that interests me a LOT. Not necessarily because I want to go to that life, I don't think I would ever be accepted, but it's fascinating.
I enjoyed the friendship between Leona and Gloria. Being the only girl with my siblings, I know how Leona must feel to want a sister. However, I never remember being an only child. The brother of mine that is oldest to me is 2 years 9 months younger than I am, and I just don't ever remember life with out him in it.
Things happen and it causes Leona and Gloria to lose contact with one another for approximately 3 years, and when they finally reconnected, it became Leona's biggest wish to get Gloria back to The People and The Plain way of life, instead of the English way of life. Leona made a trip from Pennsylvania to Arkansas to see Gloria and when she got there, they were so happy to reconnect. They were able to talk about everything, and by the end of the weekend that Leona was there, Gloria had decided to drive Leona back out to Pennsylvania. She wanted to try to figure out if it was what she really wanted to go back to the Plain life.
There were several places in this book that I recognized, such as Salem, Arkansas. I have been there. I used to live 20 minutes from there, and it's pretty cool to read about places you've been. All in all, I thought this book was wonderful. I would very highly recommend it to you!
HUGE thanks to Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book!
I enjoyed the friendship between Leona and Gloria. Being the only girl with my siblings, I know how Leona must feel to want a sister. However, I never remember being an only child. The brother of mine that is oldest to me is 2 years 9 months younger than I am, and I just don't ever remember life with out him in it.
Things happen and it causes Leona and Gloria to lose contact with one another for approximately 3 years, and when they finally reconnected, it became Leona's biggest wish to get Gloria back to The People and The Plain way of life, instead of the English way of life. Leona made a trip from Pennsylvania to Arkansas to see Gloria and when she got there, they were so happy to reconnect. They were able to talk about everything, and by the end of the weekend that Leona was there, Gloria had decided to drive Leona back out to Pennsylvania. She wanted to try to figure out if it was what she really wanted to go back to the Plain life.
There were several places in this book that I recognized, such as Salem, Arkansas. I have been there. I used to live 20 minutes from there, and it's pretty cool to read about places you've been. All in all, I thought this book was wonderful. I would very highly recommend it to you!
HUGE thanks to Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book!
October 18, 2016
This book is written in typical Beverly Lewis' style giving us a great book in the Amish fiction genre. She takes us right into the world of the Amish faith, immerses us in their very different culture, giving us glimpses of their world as it really is... full of challenges, just like those experienced by you and I. It is how they are dealt with, that makes their lives appear so unlike the "world".
This is a story of forgiveness and inspiration. Two women, the main characters, have a valuable friendship which neither wants to forget, even though life situations cause their belief in each other to fumble at times. They have to take the time to examine and attempt to show the forgiveness that Christ has portrayed for each of us. This a lesson that we all need to remember. I easily identified with these women, making this book a super read. Their problems and challenges quickly engaged me in the story, pulling me into the Amish community.
The plot moves at a steady pace with just enough twists and turns to keep the reader on the edge of her seat. I found myself reluctant to deal with everyday tasks as I became more immersed in the tale as it progressed. I could not put this book down. Surprising twists and turns appeared at unexpected times, just when you think life is settling down.
I rate this a five star book. It is a story that we can all take and apply to our lives. We all need to learn to forgive and trust!!
This is a story of forgiveness and inspiration. Two women, the main characters, have a valuable friendship which neither wants to forget, even though life situations cause their belief in each other to fumble at times. They have to take the time to examine and attempt to show the forgiveness that Christ has portrayed for each of us. This a lesson that we all need to remember. I easily identified with these women, making this book a super read. Their problems and challenges quickly engaged me in the story, pulling me into the Amish community.
The plot moves at a steady pace with just enough twists and turns to keep the reader on the edge of her seat. I found myself reluctant to deal with everyday tasks as I became more immersed in the tale as it progressed. I could not put this book down. Surprising twists and turns appeared at unexpected times, just when you think life is settling down.
I rate this a five star book. It is a story that we can all take and apply to our lives. We all need to learn to forgive and trust!!
August 15, 2016
A story of a young woman's lust for the other side of the fence, doesn’t it always look greener? Leona has a dear friend in Gloria, and as a young girl she wishes she could be a part of her family, everything about them is so much better than hers.
When abruptly without so much as a goodbye they are gone, and she doesn’t hear from her best friend/sister for over three years, a lifetime, and a grieving time for such a loss. When Gloria finally contacts her, she begs Leona to come to her, and we begin to wonder what is going to happen to our girl? Will she decide she likes what has happened to this family that was so dear to her, will she end up being English?
When Gloria comes back to Lancaster with her, will Leona’s family let in the door? She is no longer Amish and is driving a car, and carrying a cell phone, or will she look to return to her roots. All of the answers are here and more, a delightful read that you won’t want to put down and will be page turning late into the wee hours of the morning.
I received this book through Net Galley and Bethany House Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
When abruptly without so much as a goodbye they are gone, and she doesn’t hear from her best friend/sister for over three years, a lifetime, and a grieving time for such a loss. When Gloria finally contacts her, she begs Leona to come to her, and we begin to wonder what is going to happen to our girl? Will she decide she likes what has happened to this family that was so dear to her, will she end up being English?
When Gloria comes back to Lancaster with her, will Leona’s family let in the door? She is no longer Amish and is driving a car, and carrying a cell phone, or will she look to return to her roots. All of the answers are here and more, a delightful read that you won’t want to put down and will be page turning late into the wee hours of the morning.
I received this book through Net Galley and Bethany House Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 24, 2016
This is a beautifully written story. It is not your typical Amish Romance. There is romance in this novel, yet it is not the main focus. This book focuses more on friendship, choices and realizing things may not always be like we think. Beverly Lewis always does her homework and writes very accurately in the Amish culture and develops her characters well.
Leona Speicher is a caring Amish girl who has always wanted a sister and maybe parents who were a little different than her own. When Gloria and her family move to town she feels her prayers have been answered. Yet their lives take totally different paths than they ever dreamed possible. Will Leona be able to bring her friend back to the people, or are their to many convinces in the English world to return plain?
I loved the relationship between many of the characters in this novel. Leona and Gloria both have lessons to learn throughout this novel and you are not really sure exactly how it will end. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading 'Amish' type books.
Leona Speicher is a caring Amish girl who has always wanted a sister and maybe parents who were a little different than her own. When Gloria and her family move to town she feels her prayers have been answered. Yet their lives take totally different paths than they ever dreamed possible. Will Leona be able to bring her friend back to the people, or are their to many convinces in the English world to return plain?
I loved the relationship between many of the characters in this novel. Leona and Gloria both have lessons to learn throughout this novel and you are not really sure exactly how it will end. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading 'Amish' type books.
October 23, 2016
It has been a long time since I picked up a Beverly Lewis novel, and since hers were the first Amish books I read, I wondered how this one, also an Amish novel, would compare. As always, her books tell a gentle tale of “us” and “them”. There are no grandchildren in God’s family, meaning that each one of us has to have our own living faith in God, and not rely on our parents’ faith. And though not all roads lead to God, He is more interested in that we have a close relationship with Him, than in what church we belong to. As I our lives, there are times of betrayal, misunderstandings and discouragement, but through the story is woven a strong faith and forgiveness.
Thank you to Ellen of Ellen Graf-Martin through her Nuts about Books program, and BethanyHouse, division of Baker Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this novel. I was given a free book .The opinions are my own.
Thank you to Ellen of Ellen Graf-Martin through her Nuts about Books program, and BethanyHouse, division of Baker Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this novel. I was given a free book .The opinions are my own.
February 1, 2017
I have long been a fan of Beverly Lewis, and this novel, to me, is evidence of why. Lushly crafted scenery, intriguing plot lines, and the characters! Ahh, the characters! People you want to be friends with, jah? ;)
I think my favourite part of this book was when Leona realised what her fondest wish was, and how all that played out with going to help her dear sister-friend, Gloria. I also appreciated the secondary characters, especially Deacon Ebersol, and his wisdom, even though it wasn't always what people wanted to hear.
For me, reading this book was a transporting to a simpler, slower way of life, and I found my thoughts gentling, and my limited knowledge of Penn Dutch phrases coming to the forefront. And that's the mark of a well written Amish novel, ain't so?
I think my favourite part of this book was when Leona realised what her fondest wish was, and how all that played out with going to help her dear sister-friend, Gloria. I also appreciated the secondary characters, especially Deacon Ebersol, and his wisdom, even though it wasn't always what people wanted to hear.
For me, reading this book was a transporting to a simpler, slower way of life, and I found my thoughts gentling, and my limited knowledge of Penn Dutch phrases coming to the forefront. And that's the mark of a well written Amish novel, ain't so?
October 30, 2016
Beverly Lewis has such a talent for writing stories based on the Amish. In this story an Amish girl shows some interest in life away from the community.
Lewis creates believable relationships in her writing along with lessons. I was delighted that I was not able to tell how this story would end and was surprised. As with her other works, Beverly Lewis gives the reader a glimpse into a world they may not have been familiar with otherwise.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
Lewis creates believable relationships in her writing along with lessons. I was delighted that I was not able to tell how this story would end and was surprised. As with her other works, Beverly Lewis gives the reader a glimpse into a world they may not have been familiar with otherwise.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
August 6, 2019
Leona and Gloria are friends and consider each other a "sister". Gloria's father is expelled from the Old Order Amish church for being underhanded. Gloria's family picks up and moves out of Lancaster County quickly, with no goodbyes. It is several years before Gloria makes contact with Leona. Leona goes to her for a visit. Gloria and her family have been living fancy and have left the church. There are some choices to be made and lifestyles to consider. This is another enjoyable novel by Beverly Lewis. I recommend it!
March 31, 2018
I enjoy reading about the Amish and I wonder if I could live their simple ways. Some things about their lives would be good - lots of family time and meals around the table together. But horse and buggy (especially in the winter time) would be very challenging. No electricity would also be hard.
I didn't care for this book as much as other Amish books - felt it was a slow read and just drug on and on about whether Gloria would come back to her Amish roots.
I didn't care for this book as much as other Amish books - felt it was a slow read and just drug on and on about whether Gloria would come back to her Amish roots.
October 20, 2016
The Wish was not the best book I have read by Beverly Lewis. I had a hard time getting into this story.
December 31, 2016
One of her better books.
October 30, 2016
Her books are already some of the best and they keep getting better. I couldn't put The Wish down.
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