Brightest and Best

Amish Turns of Time #3

by Olivia Newport

The collapse of a schoolhouse puts pressure on Amish families and their long-held educational values. Ella Hilty anticipates marrying Gideon Wittner and becoming a mother to his children. In a whirling clash of values, Ella seeks the solid ground that seems to have slipped away. Margaret Simpson, an English schoolteacher, wonders if she is losing her last chance at love. As the local authorities draw lines in the sand, Margaret puts romance at risk one final time. All eyes turn to Ella to make a sacrifice and accept a challenge that can bring unity to the Amish and understanding to the English .

Genres: Amish, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical

316 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2015

About the author

Hello!

I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.

We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us.

Here the adventure begins. When we meet someone new, we never know where it might lead.

I’ve been married over 40 years and have two adult kids and a son-in-law. We live in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where the day lilies in my back yard grow as tall as I am. (No short jokes, please.)

Not every piece of my life is pretty, though. Some days I want to throw out whole chunks. But I am living each day looking for the grace of God to me, in me, and through me. Having your companionship along the way will help uncover a lot of great stories.

Reviews

[Katrina Epperson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Olivia Newport and Shiloh Run Press has released the third installment in the Amish Turns of Time series. The setting for this story is Geauga County, Ohio in 1918.

When this book arrived I thought it had a beautiful cover and the description about the story looked good. I opened the book and was immediately swept away.

Ms. Newport introduces us to a community that is divided. The war is winding down in Europe and this quiet community is getting ready to face a war at home between the Amish and the English government. This is a story about the separation of church and state.


The Amish have sent their children to a public school for years, but has had input in what was taught to their children. Unfortunately Ms. Coates, the school teacher, has called a meeting about the dilapidated conditions of their school house when the unthinkable happened, one of the walls collapsed. The superintendent and school board have decided to not rebuild the school, but bus the children from outlying areas to the school located in town.

The Amish people are distressed that their children are not exempt from the rules and regulations handed down from the board. Not only will their children be exposed to the English world with no control, but they must also attend school until the age of 16. They are a peaceable community and look for ways to work through their differences. When no resolution is forthcoming they do what they think is best for their children.

I was drawn to the character of Margaret Simpson. She is a teacher at the consolidated school and seeks to understand the differences between the Amish and the English community. She is a true peacemaker, but sees trouble as the result of her actions of trying to do the right thing.

I really enjoyed this story.

I was drawn in immediately to the plot line and the characters. It was like watching a good movie in that it was hard to stop or put down. I would recommend it to anyone who loves Amish stories or a good historical story. I received this story from the publisher for a honest opinion without bias or outside influence as stated above.

[Dianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you have not read the other books in this series, I think you will be like me and feel lost at sea. I have never read this author before and I am quite sorry that I didn't know enough to trust that I wouldn't need to read the first books in this series. It has been said that this is a less heavy read than the others...that does not bode well for me and my tastes!

This was a very interesting historical novel set in 1918 that dealt with the separation of church and state. To call this a romance would be a bit of a mistake. There really was none. That must have been done in the past novels. What this was about was how the state decided that the Amish children be integrated or consolidated into a school that would teach the Amish children more about the 'English' the than the church wants them to know and to force them to go to school well past the eight grade which is the norm for the Amish.

There are several secondary and tertiary story lines going on throughout this book. I felt that this was a good book for knowledge and learning about what the Amish went through to gain respect for their religion. However, the novel felt overly long to me with a lot of repetition, and I had to struggle to stay interested in it.

*ARC supplied by publisher.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful, touching, completely fascinating story! I don't know why I have taken such a long break in my reading of books written by Olivia Newport! I absolutely love her writing style, and this story is so compelling. Mrs. Newport knows how to get the feelings of the characters across and help you see through their eyes, the situations they are facing and the complications that affect them. Every character in this book is so real and plausible, except for two brothers who are pretty minor (well one of them is a step above minor but the less important brother has a plot line which I felt was distracting and not that important to the overall story...otherwise this would have gotten a five star rating, for sure!) This felt like it was based on actual events about real people, and the author's note at the end explains that it is a combination and compression of many actual events and situations which were not completely resolved until the Supreme Court ruling in 1972! However, knowing that these characters are, in fact, very much fictional and made up from the author's mind, somehow makes me love them even more, especially the "English" school teacher, Margaret, who completely embodies the attitudes of a truly dedicated teacher, and sacrifices much to do the right thing. This is one of those stories which will stick with you for a long time.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like how the premise of this entire series is that the author takes pivotal moments in Amish history, and then creates a story to showcase those moments. This book was about the struggle Amish people had against local government authorities who decided that all children, Amish or not, needed to be educated a particular way.
I've read stories that have discussed this dilemma previously, but I had an epiphany during this one: I owe the ability I had to home educate my son to those struggles that the Amish had. Really, they were fighting for a right to educate their children as they saw fit . . . just as home educating families choose to do. So, thank you to the Amish people who chose to put the needs of their children before the desires of the government.
Back to the story itself . . . I liked how there were 4 characters whose point of view we got to see. When we're allowed to see multiple viewpoints, if it's written well (as this was), we get a broader picture of what's going on. I think that added so much to the story. I really felt solidarity with what Ella, Gideon, James, and Margaret were trying to accomplish, and though the ending wasn't what I had anticipated would happen, I do feel like the choice made was in character for the person who made it.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
(copied from Amazon.com)
The collapse of a schoolhouse puts pressure on Amish families and their long-held educational values. Ella Hilty anticipates marrying Gideon Wittner and becoming a mother to his children. In a whirling clash of values, Ella seeks the solid ground that seems to have slipped away. Margaret Simpson, an English schoolteacher, wonders if she is losing her last chance a love. As the local authorities draw lines in the sand, Margaret puts romance at risk one final time. All eyes turn to Ella to make a sacrifice and accept a challenge that can bring unity to the Amish and understanding to the English.



MY REVIEW
If you like stories about people putting their lives on hold for the benefit of others you will enjoy this book. Olivia does a great job of writing and keeping you glued to the story she is telling. I have enjoyed the first three books in this series and there are two more waiting for me to read!!!

[Gaylina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is a good book for teachers and parents that have a strong faith that they want to pass on to children. Especially with what is happening in public schools and universities in our time. I can remember back in the 1970’s when I had dear friends that chose to homeschool their children and were persecuted by others and ridiculed. Their children have all gone on to have college degrees including masters. The parents still travel internationally and live among the least of these, in poverty stricken countries because of their strong principles and Christian faith. They are highly educated. This book is all about the Amish persecution and the forcing of the Amish children to go to public schools and not be allowed to have their own local schools. The author gives historical references that she explains in her Authors Notes. I had no idea of the struggles the Amish people endured regarding the education of their children.

[Rosa Cline · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars
This series I’m not sure why it’s considered a series the books have nothing in common except the author and the Amish setting. So with that said you can read out of order and can read these if you’ve not read the ones before the others.
They all are loosely based on Historical facts and at the back of the books are author notes about true facts she researched and used. Which I find is nice. I now flip to those before I read the book so I can have a heads up on the true stuff makes it more interesting to me.
This story (to me) wasn’t up to the other stories she’s written. The storyline had to many characters and the reader couldn’t keep tract of who was Amish and who wasn’t. The storyline went on and on without going anywhere before it moved on. The times it was moving telling the story it was a nice story.

[Janka H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

1918. Amish communities in Ohio need to deal with the separation of church and state, concerning the educational rights.
And females, both Amish and Englisch, need to decide of they are hearing the right calling, if theu truly believe what they believe and if they are willing to sacrifice for it.

This novel deals with important issues (and some of them are important nowadays, too). I also recognize the warmness of the authoress' s voice and strong female-centric presence.
While I agree with the importance of the topic, unfortunately I was not able to relate to this novel personally (probably because I am most interested in different parts of the human psyche).

[Rosemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting story about the Amish fighting for the right to educate their children according to their religious beliefs. Based on historical facts, the novel culls many incidents into one continuous story line. I never really thought about the battles the Amish have fought to maintain the integrity of their children's education. Olivia Newport created a wonderful story with great historical background.

[Nat Kidder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohio around 1918 must have passed the "Amish Writers Full Employment Act" because a number of novels have been written around the state mandating everyone under 16 (including the Amish) go to public school.

The story itself is well thought out, with an interesting array of characters and good tension, both principled and romantic, throughout. Newport could have woven the criminal subplot a little better into the main one, but overall it's a good read.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is the best series by Olivia that I've ever read!!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this story! The relevance to everything today in patience, understanding, acceptance...in being different. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Linda Halbrook]

Love Amish books stories are a lot alike but I never Lose interest. They’re all good!

[Kayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

[Deb Haggerty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deb’s Dozen: Educating the Brightest and Best. A public school education? Or Amish ways?

Olivia Newport’s Brightest and Best is a brilliant book with totally believable characters. The story rehearses the conflict enmeshing Amish people as they sought to win the right to educate their children as they saw best. Their opposition? The requirement of the state to force public education on all children through age sixteen. The time is 1918, just as WWI is ending; the setting is Geauga County, Ohio, where the first recorded conflict took place. This conflict continued until a Supreme Court ruling in 1972.

As I read the book, I was caught up in the conflict strongly on the side of the Amish. To have the state force parents to educate their children in a manner that would violate their religious beliefs is untenable to me. I’m not in favor of someone using religious beliefs as an “out” but I am in favor of allowing parents to determine what is best for their children. That is, as long as what they do does not harm those children in any way. Today we face the same issues with the conflict between public education and those parents who choose to homeschool their children. And we also see the increasing conflict between the government and those who stand for their religious beliefs.

Ella Hilty wants nothing more than to marry Gideon Wittmer and become the mother to his three children—Gertie, Savilla, and Tobias. Before they can marry, the conflict over education erupts when their one-room schoolhouse becomes unsafe for occupancy and their English teacher, Miss Coates, leaves to be married. Margaret Simpson, a public school first grade teacher, is given the assignment to persuade the Amish families to send their children to the consolidated school. Before she makes much headway, the superintendent of schools takes matters into his own hands and involves the sheriff’s office to attempt to force compliance. Margaret chafes at the action, in her heart of heart believing the Amish are right.

You’ll meet others in the community: Lindy Lehman, a talented woodworker who chose not to join the Amish church, and is estranged from her sister, Rachel, who is married to Ella’s daed, Jed. David, Rachel’s son, who wants nothing more than to continue his schooling, but has passed eighth grade—the age at which Amish children stop their schooling. If you’re like me, you’ll fume at the treatment the Amish received just because they’re different. And then you’ll blush in chagrin as you realize many people today feel exactly the same way as the English in Geauga County did—only about those of other races—and religions. Brightest and Best (Amish Turns of Time) is as relevant to situations in 2015 as it is in describing the conflict in 1918. Five stars!

To quote her bio, Olivia Newport’s novels twist through time to find where faith and passions meet. Her husband and two twenty-something children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books. She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where daylilies grow as tall as she is.” More information about Olivia can be found on her website, OliviaNewport.com.

Shiloh Press (an imprint of Barbour Books) gave me a copy of Brightest and Best in exchange for my candid review.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Olivia Newport's fixation with history. In her Valley of Choice series set in Colorado, she interweaves chapters of historical vignettes with the story of Annie and Rufus falling in love and growing in faith. Now in her Amish Turns of Time series, she centers each story itself on a particular moment of significance in American Amish history. She uses her always-endearing characters to flesh out pivot points in our country's past to make us realize the depth of sacrifice and heights of character it has always taken to be Amish in America.

Right from the start, we know that Ella Hilty is a young woman teetering on the dangerous edge of a decision that could change both her life and that of her community. The book opens with a loud admonition: "Don't take another step!" It doesn't take too many pages before we realized that Nora Coates' words don't just apply to a rotting schoolhouse floor; they also summarize Ella's difficult decisions about how to best find and follow God's will for her life. We see her willingness to do and be whatever God requires when she answers Nora, "I will step carefully if you would kindly advise me." Those words pretty much describe the rest of this story!

This book is set in Geauga County, Ohio, back in 1918 when a local school board decided Amish students should be taught at consolidated public schools. Without giving away the twists and turns of this story, Ella and her Amish district face life-changing consequences as they try to obey the Biblical command to "Come out from among them and be ye separate." There are differences of opinion within the church as families try to balance their submission to God and government. Overall, the "English" do not come off very well in this book, but there are a few wonderful exceptions. First grade teacher Margaret Simpson is tenderhearted and compassionate. She sees the prejudice against the Amish and stands up to it, no matter where it rears its ugly head. Lindy Lehman, though raised Amish, never joined the church, and lives simply in the English community. She also puts her life and future on the line to protect the rights of the Amish. Otherwise, the English generally look like the uneducated fools they accuse the Amish of being.

There were several points in this story where Newport did NOT take the expected turn; like real life, easy answers aren't the norm, and there are loose ends left hanging. I loved that the main characters all "paid a price" in this book. I admire the courage of those who gave up their comfort, plans, and treasure to make sure the next generation was educated to know and serve God. I feel this book has good parallels for Christian today as they try to sort out their response to government demands and matters of conscience.

I am sorry to see this trilogy end. Each book in the Amish Turns of Time series had a distinctive "voice" that fit that period of American history. Newport has a real gift for communicating the issues of faith no matter the era. Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, and made it a point not to read other reviews before writing mine. I have bought every other book I've read by Olivia Newport, and I consider them a good value.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The battle for balance between one’s religious freedom and submission to the law is a timely one. This plot could easily be set in contemporary society, but Olivia Newport’s newest novel Brightest and Best (Shiloh Run Press) takes place in 1918 Ohio. Based on a conglomeration of historical accounts, this third book in the Amish Turns of Time series follows the events set in motion after the disrepair of a rural one-room schoolhouse. Rather than rebuild, the superintendent tells the Amish community that they will need to send their children to the consolidated school in the nearby town, leaving the parents frustrated at his arrogant dismissal of their concerns related to their religious beliefs and practices. When they prayerfully decide to take matters into their own hands, the results are more staggering than they could have foreseen. In the midst of the unrest, two unlikely women are called to take a stand for what’s right – and in the process they may each be forced to give up more than they wanted.

Sure to be a favorite among fans of the series, Brightest and Best is a much less heavy read than the first two books – perhaps because the conflict comes from outside the community rather than inside. It also differs from its predecessors in having less of a vignette feel to the chapters and more of a connected-story-moving-the-plot-along structure. While it does not have as many humorous situations as Meek and Mild (Andrew driving the Model T, anyone?), Brightest and Best does provide plenty of opportunity for smiles. Margaret’s attempts to find a word for the Amish situation besides “problem”, for example, and Ms. Newport’s way of making each new attempt appear subtly on the page will bring grins as well as a break from gritting one’s teeth in frustration at the town officials!

As always, Olivia Newport’s words are beautifully crafted and her plot intriguing. Emotion-tugging subplots serve as the perfect backdrop for themes like sacrifice, courage, and enduring love. A little mystery is even thrown in as well. Above it all rings the overarching message that everyone in today’s world needs to hear – it is wise and beneficial to learn to see life through someone else’s eyes.

Although many characters make up the playbill for Brightest and Best, a few stand out vividly from among the pack. The Amish teenager who will do anything to continue his schooling. The young widower suddenly thrust into a leadership role. The schoolteacher who refuses to cater to injustice. The fatherly uncle who would have made a good secret agent. The bride-to-be bookworm asked to give her community more than she ever planned. Readers will wish these characters were their own neighbors and friends, so rich are their personalities.

Bottom Line: Brightest and Best is a fitting novel in light of current events, but it is also a truly enjoyable read. Subtle humor, endearing characters, and an inspiring story all combine together to ensure its place as a top pick for both historical and Amish fiction fans.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for only my honest review.)

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Brightest and Best by Olivia Newport. The story takes place in Geauga County, Ohio (Seabury) in 1918. Ella Hilty is twenty-six and still lives at home. Her mother died when she was a tween. Her father has just remarried and Ella is no longer needed at home (what a fine how to you do). Ella, though, has fallen for widower, Gideon Wittmer. Gideon has three children (Tobias, Savilla, and Gertrude or Gertie). Ella loves to read. She goes to the library and checks out an armload of non-fiction books frequently (not supposed to read English fiction novels). Gideon asked Ella to accompany him to visit the local school. The teacher, Nora Coates asked some of the parents to visit to see the condition of the school. Unfortunately, the school starts falling apart while they are inside. While they are waiting to hear about the building of a new school, Nora gets engaged. Now they have no teacher and no school. The local schoolboard superintendent, Mr. Brownley has no intention of building a new school. He wants to incorporate the children into the new progressive consolidated schools in town. The children will be bused in to attend school (and take art, music, and other subjects that the Amish do not approve of).

Margaret Simpson is recruited to help convince the Amish that the new schools are in their best interests. Margaret is the teacher of first grade at the consolidated elementary school. Margaret was not acquainted with the Amish ways or customs, which did not help her cause. When Mr. Brownley is not happy with Margaret’s slow progress, he takes matters into his own hands. The Amish are going to have to fight for what is best for their children. Ella gets caught up in the middle since she is the most educated Amish person in their area. If Ella does end up teaching the children, will she be able to get married? What sacrifices are Ella, Gideon, and the rest of the families willing to make for the sake of their children and their beliefs.

Brightest and Best brings up an interesting topic—Amish education. The Amish only believe in educating their children through the eighth grade (which is just wrong). I started reading this book and did not want to stop. It is very engrossing. Olivia Newport fictionalized the account of the Amish fight to educate their children the way they wanted. She provides some great information at the end of the book (the actual history). I give Brightest and Best 5 out of 5 stars. This book captures your attention from the very beginning and holds it until the last page. Olivia Newport did a wonderful job writing this book. I think Brightest and Best is her best book yet! I have only given a small summary of what happens in the book. There is also a compelling mystery (which is easy to solve), romance, influenza epidemic, and a female carpenter (unusual for this time period).

I received a complimentary copy of Brightest and Best from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own.

http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...

[Mackenzie Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brightest and Best is the third book in Olivia Newport’s Amish Turns of Time series, but it is the first book by her I have ever read. Although this novel started out a little slow for me, it quickly picked up speed, immersing me in the struggle between obeying God and obeying a God-ordained government. I really fell in love with the story, and found myself fighting along with them against the rules that threatened their way of life. I loved the historical aspects of this book and how they really made it what it was, and the characters were all wonderful and easy to relate to. Ella is so selfless and completely and utterly in tune with God’s will, and I really looked up to her and her faith. Margaret, although from a different background so unlike Ella’s, reminded me of her in so many ways. She really did want what was best for the Amish children, and it was obvious with everything that she did.
What should you do when you know God is calling you to raise your children one way, and the God-ordained government you live under says something different? How do you know what is right, and how far to push the boundaries? Will God make His will clear, and if so, will He make a way possible so you can follow it? Many Amish parents were faced with these questions throughout the whole of this book, and how they rallied and tried their hardest to do what was right, despite attacks coming from all sides, and the effect was inspiring. I cannot imagine what it must have been like for them, wanting to do what was right but unsure exactly what that was and feeling the pressure put on them by the government and the other families. Olivia really showed us how difficult it was for them, and I applaud her for weaving the story in such a way that it made you feel as if you were a part of the drama.
As the story progressed, it really drew me in, and I found myself anxious to find out what would happen. I really did love the ending, although it didn’t turn out exactly the way I thought it would. However, it definitely did end well, and I found myself looking up to Margaret and Ella even more as I finished. They are both so strong and inspiring, and I really was blessed by that. All the characters, really, had at least one relatable thing about them, and I loved all of them for the way that they handled the situations they were presented with. With everything that filled the pages of this novel, it really did end up being one that I loved, and I will present it with four bookshelves out of five, and the only reason I do not give it all five was because of the fact that the beginning was a bit slow for me. All in all, Brightest and Best was a very enjoyable novel, I highly recommend it, and am looking forward to reading more by Olivia in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
(This review is from my blog, spreadinghisgrace.blogspot.com)

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Brightest and the Best” by Olivia Newport takes place in 1918 in Ohio. The Amish community’s one room schoolhouse is in sad disrepair to the point where it is unsafe to use. The county officials, under a new ruling by the state, are determined that the Amish children will be taught in one of the community schools and also that all children will attend school until the age of 16. The Amish send their children to school until the 8th grade. After that time, the Amish children are taught the lessons of life, farming, homemaking, gardening, husbandry and all things that will make them productive members of the Amish community. The school’s teacher is engaged to be married and since at that time no woman could teach while married, they are left without someone to take over the classes. This is a story about the tensions between the county and the Amish. The fathers will not allow their children to go to the public school because they do not feel that the teachings are compliant with their religious beliefs and are too worldly. The county is adamant that these fathers comply. Eventually it comes to the point where the Amish fathers are imprisoned and the children taken into state custody and it is up to the courts to sort out this dilemma.

I enjoyed reading this book I did a little research on my own and discovered that there indeed was a case where this very thing happened. People were imprisoned and children were taken from their parents. It fell to the high courts to decide that the laws infringed upon the religious rights of the Amish people. I was recently in an Amish community in northern Indiana and researched that region’s complicity with the laws. Most of the children in that community to go to school until graduating from the 8th grade, but thereafter, are vocationally taught by their families and community. However, it is becoming more prevalent that the children wish to receive a higher education and so there are a few Amish children who are being educated in the public high schools. I find this fascinating that in this modern world, the Amish way of life is still being preserved and is flourishing in some parts of our nation.

I was sent a print copy of this book by Barbour Books in return for my honest review. You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-h4. Other reviews can be found at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.

[Pamela Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia Newport gained a fan. This is the first novel I’ve read by this author and I loved it. It is not your typical romance but much more. Yes, there is the love between Ella Hilty and Gideon Wittmer who look forward to their Amish wedding and a second romance between Margaret Simpson, a first grade teacher at the English grade school, and her beau Gray Truesdale. But the story is also about sacrifices the Amish families and their supporters make in order to stand up for what is right.

The conflicts the characters face could come from today’s headlines, but they revolve around a collection of actual events that began in 1914. In her Author’s Note, Newport explains why she chose Geauga County, Ohio, as the setting for her novel. It was in this area where clashes between state officials and Amish parents occurred concerning where and how long their children would attend school. The author used her extensive research to create a vivid sense of life in an Amish community, so vivid that I felt I was a friend or family member, sharing their joys and struggles.

The first sentence pulled me into the novel and the events kept me turning pages to discover how the characters would react to the extreme actions of the government authorities. There is tension on every page, especially when the enforcement of the law causes dire consequences. Would the Amish parents be forced to put aside their religious beliefs and send their children to the English schools? Would the choices of each loving couple lead to a “happily ever after?”

When I began reading, I found the large number of characters confusing and appreciated the list of each and their relationships at the beginning of the novel. It wasn’t a problem for long as each character came to life through Newport’s superb writing. My favorite was Margaret Simpson. I loved her spunk and cheered for her as she battled the superintendent of schools and took on the deputy sheriff in support of the Amish families. Margaret also provided a bit of humor in her proper responses to her beau’s courting rituals and her determination to outsmart the authorities.

This novel is wonderful on many levels. Newport’s writing is masterful and the plot intriguing. It’s an emotional read that touches the heart. I highly recommend Brightest and Best. (I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brightest and Best (Amish Turns of Time) by Olivia Newport
The collapse of a schoolhouse puts pressure on Amish families and their long-held educational values. Ella Hilty anticipates marrying Gideon Wittner and becoming a mother to his children. In a whirling clash of values, Ella seeks the solid ground that seems to have slipped away. Margaret Simpson, an English schoolteacher, wonders if she is losing her last chance at love. As the local authorities draw lines in the sand, Margaret puts romance at risk one final time. All eyes turn to Ella to make a sacrifice and accept a challenge that can bring unity to the Amish and understanding to the English.
how did Ella Hilty and Gideon Wittner meet ?
What sacrifices are Ella willing to make for the sake of their children and their beliefs ?
will they rebuild the school house?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
will Margaret Simpson lose her last chance at love?
What sacrifices are Gideon, and the rest of the families willing to make for the sake of their children and their beliefs?
will Ella and Gideon be more than friends?
The Amish only believe in educating their children through what grade?
what person is the most educated Amish person in their area?
how many books in the (Amish Turns of Time) series?
do you like the cover for Brightest and Best (Amish Turns of Time)by Olivia Newport?
wonderful well written book.
Brightest and Best (Amish Turns of Time)by Olivia Newport is a 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading Brightest and Best by Olivia Newport.
I got a free advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Olivia Newport.

Amish Turns of Time
1. Wonderful Lonesome
2. Meek and Mild
3. Brightest and Best

Valley of Choice
1. Accidentally Amish
2. In Plain View
3. Taken for English

Hidden Falls
1. Ordinary Secrets
2. Losing Quinn
3. A Town in Trouble
4. Unexpected Hero
5. The Mayor's Quandary
6. No Time for Answers
8. All You Need to Know
9. A Fair Refuge
10. One Familiar Tune
11. When Memory Came
12. The Groundskeeper Remembered
13. Distinguishing Marks
Yesterday's Promise

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only did Newport engage this reader, she held her captive right to the very end. Seriously compelling. I couldn't put it down. I lost sleep over this book. Both because I stayed up late reading and because I dreamed about the story when I finally did drift off. Applying cucumber slices to my puffy eyes right after I finish writing this review. :-)

If you're not an Amish reader but you love historicals don't be shy, give Brightest and Best a try. Two heroines, one Amish, one English, will keep both kinds of readers happy. And 1918 is an interesting time period for an Amish novel. In many ways, the Amish aren't so very different from their English neighbours. Day to day life is pretty similar between the two groups -- however modern conveniences such as the automobile and the telephone are beginning to create a wider gap between them.

And I found the whole school issue which is at the core of this story utterly fascinating. Newport tells it from various viewpoints, both Amish and English and it pulled at my heartstrings because I know that many Amish communities went through what this one did before they were finally allowed to educate their own children. I was outraged, appalled, devastated...pretty much emotionally spent by the time I reached the end.

This is as much a book about human rights as it is about the Amish at the turn of the century. A reader can make some interesting parallels to similar modern day stories seen in the media the last few years, which really got me thinking. Definitely the kind of book that has plenty of starting points for discussion so it would make an excellent book club choice.

Oh -- and let's not forget the romance. Sweet and yearning, Gideon and Ella's love story is complicated by the growing dissent surrounding them. Their happily ever after seems as illusive as the hoped for Amish schoolhouse. Page-turning to the very last delectable page.

[Tina Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Go back in time in "Brightest and Best" to 1918 to the county of Geauge in Seabury in the state of Ohio, where Seabury School District runs both Amish and English schools in the surrounding area.

Nora Coates, English school teacher at the one-room schoolhouse in rural area of Seabury, called a meeting with the English and Amish representatives of the parents committee to inspect the one-room schoolhouse of the needed repairs and to have these desperate repairs done for the start of school in September.

During the meeting, the one-room schoolhouse suffers more repairs when the roof collapses inward.

With the one-room schoolhouse unsafe, it sealed the determination in the superintendent's mind to close the one-room schoolhouse and add all of the Amish and English children to Seabury Consolidated Grade School, with enforcing English laws onto the Amish families.

With changes being enforced, what will the Amish families do?


I am loving this story; I had know idea or never thought of the Amish having trouble with starting their own school back in the day. I love when I read a book and the author's writing details takes and makes me feel like I am apart to the story.

Thank you, Olivia Newport, for bring this story to light even if it is fictional. Find me some more untold stories, I'd love to read them.




I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.

[Tina Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Go back in time in "Brightest and Best" to 1918 to the county of Geauge in Seabury in the state of Ohio, where Seabury School District runs both Amish and English schools in the surrounding area.

Nora Coates, English school teacher at the one-room schoolhouse in rural area of Seabury, called a meeting with the English and Amish representatives of the parents committee to inspect the one-room schoolhouse of the needed repairs and to have these desperate repairs done for the start of school in September.

During the meeting, the one-room schoolhouse suffers more repairs when the roof collapses inward.

With the one-room schoolhouse unsafe, it sealed the determination in the superintendent's mind to close the one-room schoolhouse and add all of the Amish and English children to Seabury Consolidated Grade School, with enforcing English laws onto the Amish families.

With changes being enforced, what will the Amish families do?


I am loving this story; I had know idea or never thought of the Amish having trouble with starting their own school back in the day. I love when I read a book and the author's writing details takes and makes me feel like I am apart to the story.

Thank you, Olivia Newport, for bring this story to light even if it is fictional. Find me some more untold stories, I'd love to read them.




I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gideon Wittmer and many other Amish families in rural Ohio are facing a seemingly insurmountable obstacle, the state has demanded that all children must be educated at a state supported school regardless of their Amish faith. In fact, their very livelihood is being threatened with the mandate that children past the eighth grade must remain enrolled in high school, rather than returning home to work family farms with their parents and grandparents. In Geauga County, the local deputy sheriff is serious about carrying out the law to the fullest extent; meaning numerous families could quite possibly face serious legal consequences.

Two young women, one Amish and one English are caught in the crosshairs of the education controversy; Ella Hilty, Gideon Wittmer's intended bride and Margaret Simpson, a first grade teacher, whom the school board appoints as an intermediary between the county and the nearby Amish community. What sacrifices will both women have to make in order for the issue to be resolved in a peaceful manner? Will Ella have to postpone her dreams and will Margaret Simpson become ostracized for her compassionate, unpopular convictions?

This story, with its deep historical roots, demonstrates that the issues of education and religious freedom often intersect, with less than desirable consequences. However, over time our country regained its footing and allowed private institutions to become engrained through-out the educational community. Trail blazers, such as the courageous fictional families portrayed in this book, remain an inspiration to us all.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Which Character are You?

"What have we done to offend them so?" Lindy shrugged. "Sometimes all it takes is being different." Brightest and Best, by Olivia Newport,transports us to small Seabury, Ohio, back near the end of the Great War.

The Amish, whose spokesman is Gideon Wittmer,want nothing more than to be left alone to worship, work, and educate their children within their own society. However,the local school board has other ideas.When the local Amish school building collapses and the teacher leaves to marry, the superintendent decides the Amish children need to consolidate to the Seabury public school...or else.

This drama is a political tale, a love story, a tragedy,and a history(with a little author's license thrown in). The reading was slow at first and the multitude of names was discouraging.By the end, I felt the reader might understand the author's need to give identities to so many people. Some characters were truly on my lovable list, some I cheered or cried for, and others I wished for more growth than they were willing to consider. Isn't it that way with real humans?!

Olivia Newport's Amish novels are never your peaceful, run-of -the-mill narratives. Rather, Newport wishes to show the difficulties the Amish have endured as they strive to remain a separate people in a world that wants them to conform. This is a book that makes you wonder as you finish, "Which character would I be?Am I sure?"

I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

If it isn't bad enough that the Amish have a one-room schoolhouse in desperate need of repair and the schoolteacher is marrying which means that a new teacher must be secured quickly, the entire roof collapses on the Parent Committee as they examine the school to determine what repairs must be made. I love that the author, Olivia Newport, has researched the struggle the Amish experienced in seeking their religious freedoms in educating their children and used it as a theme for this book in the series. It reminded me a great deal of my own grandmother, who was born in 1901 and was only allowed to attend school through the eighth grade as only rich children could afford to go to one of the regional boarding high schools in Virginia. She wanted to go to school so badly that she was allowed to attend the eighth grade twice so that she would not have to quit that year. Some of the Amish young people in this story have a great desire to learn, even though their parents have plans for them to remain at home after 8th grade to learn the trades of the parents or become homemakers in the case of the young girls. This book truly took me back in time to another period and certainly a trying one for many, Amish and English. I worked as a public schoolteacher for 14 years and wonder if students today truly appreciate the opportunities for learning they have in our public schools.
I rate this book 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers of both Amish and historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I seen this book at the store I just knew I had to get it!! The cover of this book said " Come and read me" and so I did! If you want to take a trip back to Ohio in 1918 then this is the book for you!! I guarantee you that you will learn a lot!! This author has done her research very well!
I love anything written by Olivia Newport especially if it's set in my home state of Ohio.
This author has penned another great read from the Amish Turns of time series. I loved it! I enjoyed it because I liked how the Amish had to make a tough decision between their religious freedom and the laws 0f their state.
She will make you want to nibble or chew on your fingernails to see what the Amish will do after an accident in the schoolhouse that desperately needed repairs.
Will the Amish have to go to a consolidated school or will they be able to work things out with the superintendent of their district?
You'll just have to read this book to find out what happened. FyI this isn't a romance book. This is definitely a historical all the way!
Here's my opinion while we're at it. I think too many parents and kids take their education for granted. They don't appreciate it and I believe that education has changed so much in the last few years that it's awful! They more or less want to push the children through. Parents more or less just wanted teachers to babysit
I strongly recommend this book.
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must say after reading the previous book in this series and not really enjoying it I wasn't sure if I would like this book. I tried to keep an open mind as I began reading. I was pleasantly surprised to find I really enjoyed this story.

This story takes place in 1918 Ohio. It tells the story of the Amish who fought the authorities to keep their children from going to the consolidated public schools. While not strictly based on the actual events of the real case the author did her research and used facts that make the story genuine and real.

Through the author's storytelling, it was easy to understand why the Amish felt the way they did. The author made it easy to feel the emotions of the characters, especially the tension between the two groups. The story had a good flow and it was easy to stay interested in the story.

I liked the characters in the book but especially liked Margaret Simpson, the teacher who was given the task of trying to get the Amish to send their children to school. She was easy to like and I think that I liked her more and more through the book as she tried to understand the way the Amish felt.

This book would be a good read for anyone who likes Amish fiction and those who like a bit different story. I also think fans of fiction based on historical events would enjoy this book.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions.