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Apple Creek Dreams #2
The Road Home
Jenny Springer is the local historian for the Amish community in Apple Creek, Ohio. When Jenny was a child, Jerusha Hershberger Springer rescued her from a terrible snowstorm, and when no trace of Jenny’s parents could be found, the Springer family adopted her. Since then, the burning desire in Jenny’s heart is to find out who she really is.Then Jenny meets Jonathan Hershberger, a drifter from San Francisco who lands in Apple Creek fleeing a drug deal gone wrong. Intrigued by an Englischer with an Amish name, Jenny offers to help him discover his Amish roots. When together they dig into Jonathan’s past, Jenny gets serious in her own search for her long-lost parents. And as they travel The Road Home together, Jenny finds the truly surprising answer to her deepest questions, while Jonathan discovers his need for a home, a family, and a relationship with God.
362 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
About the author
Patrick E. Craig
32 books119 followersPatrick E. Craig is an award-winning author with twenty-two published books. He has won six Chanticleer International Book Awards, a Selah Award, and a Word Guild of Canada Award. His work includes three Amish murder mysteries, six Amish novels, three World War II historical novels with a short story sequel, two anthologies of Amish stories, a standalone novel, a memoir, two western novels, and two YA paranormal books.
In 2013 Harvest House published the first of his Apple Creak Dreams series, A Quilt For Jenna, followed by The Road Home and Jenny's Choice. All three books have been on bestseller lists in Amish and Mennonite Fiction on Amazon since then. In 2015 he self-published The Paradise Chronicles series which included The Amish Heiress, The Amish Princess and The Mennonite Queen.
In 2020 he began the Award-winning Islands series with co-author Murray Pura. The series included Far On The Ringing Plains, The Scepter and The Isle, and Men Who Strove With Gods, all CIBA award winners.
Now he is publishing his Amish mystery series, The Porch Swing Mysteries which includes The Quilt That Knew, The Boy in Blue Denim and the newly released 3 X 3.
He lives in Idaho with his wife Judy.
In 2013 Harvest House published the first of his Apple Creak Dreams series, A Quilt For Jenna, followed by The Road Home and Jenny's Choice. All three books have been on bestseller lists in Amish and Mennonite Fiction on Amazon since then. In 2015 he self-published The Paradise Chronicles series which included The Amish Heiress, The Amish Princess and The Mennonite Queen.
In 2020 he began the Award-winning Islands series with co-author Murray Pura. The series included Far On The Ringing Plains, The Scepter and The Isle, and Men Who Strove With Gods, all CIBA award winners.
Now he is publishing his Amish mystery series, The Porch Swing Mysteries which includes The Quilt That Knew, The Boy in Blue Denim and the newly released 3 X 3.
He lives in Idaho with his wife Judy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 26, 2013
Patrick Craig has done an incredible job of blending romance with adventure, suspense, and spirituality. Jenny is searching for her birth parents and Johnny is searching for meaning. They both find many things along the way that they never expected or believed could happen. Their lives are thrown together in what seem like haphazard ways and yet, God has a plan for their lives just as He does for each of us. Jerusha and her lovely gift of quilting make the story complete with the Rose of Sharon quilt. There are many wounds that need healing for Amish Jenny and Englisher, John.
I felt drawn to the characters as I read. It caused me to reflect on my own life and the ways that God has given meaning to my life. God has given forgiveness to me and there were several precious examples of forgiveness in this book. Patrick Craig utilizes the scripture through out the book to help characters, to lead them, to comfort them and to guide them. I believe that he has used more scripture appropriately in his novel than I have ever seen in Amish fiction. Patrick Craig was a pastor and I feel that he draws on those experiences and his educational training for the ministry and this enhances his writing. I am looking forward to book 3: Jenny's Choice.
I was given a free pdf version of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I felt drawn to the characters as I read. It caused me to reflect on my own life and the ways that God has given meaning to my life. God has given forgiveness to me and there were several precious examples of forgiveness in this book. Patrick Craig utilizes the scripture through out the book to help characters, to lead them, to comfort them and to guide them. I believe that he has used more scripture appropriately in his novel than I have ever seen in Amish fiction. Patrick Craig was a pastor and I feel that he draws on those experiences and his educational training for the ministry and this enhances his writing. I am looking forward to book 3: Jenny's Choice.
I was given a free pdf version of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 30, 2019
Rereading the Road Home by Craig was enthralling and kept me spellbound as when I read the original published addition. The journey of Jerusha and Jonathan was a true adventure as they discovered their ancestry roots even though they faced setbacks, disappointments and unforeseen action their resilience, faith and God’s grace kept them.
Patrick Craig is an exceptional author with his storytelling that is filled with vivid, descriptive, action packed, history and faith message interwoven. I look forward to reading many more books by Craig as they are released.
Patrick Craig is an exceptional author with his storytelling that is filled with vivid, descriptive, action packed, history and faith message interwoven. I look forward to reading many more books by Craig as they are released.
May 30, 2016
September 2019
Rereading the Road Home by Craig was enthralling and kept me spellbound as when I read the original published addition. The journey of Jerusha and Jonathan was a true adventure as they discovered their ancestry roots even though they faced setbacks, disappointments and unforeseen action their resilience, faith and God’s grace kept them.
Patrick Craig is an exceptional author with his storytelling that is filled with vivid, descriptive, action packed, history and faith message interwoven. I look forward to reading many more books by Craig as they are released.
November 24, 2015
The Road Home is a continuation of the little girl Jerusha Springer rescued in book 1, A Quilt for Jenny. Jenny was loved by her adopted parents, Jerusha and Ruben Springer but she wanted to discover her heritage. Will someone come along to assist Jenny? What will the outcome be for her?
Patrick Craig is a very gifted writer mixing the Amish and English worlds together. Creating stories that will not let you stop reading until the last page. Mr. Craig also shares the message of God's love, forgiveness, mercy and grace while the characters are facing challenges, heartache, pain and loss.
Rereading the Road Home by Craig was enthralling and kept me spellbound as when I read the original published addition. The journey of Jerusha and Jonathan was a true adventure as they discovered their ancestry roots even though they faced setbacks, disappointments and unforeseen action their resilience, faith and God’s grace kept them.
Patrick Craig is an exceptional author with his storytelling that is filled with vivid, descriptive, action packed, history and faith message interwoven. I look forward to reading many more books by Craig as they are released.
November 24, 2015
The Road Home is a continuation of the little girl Jerusha Springer rescued in book 1, A Quilt for Jenny. Jenny was loved by her adopted parents, Jerusha and Ruben Springer but she wanted to discover her heritage. Will someone come along to assist Jenny? What will the outcome be for her?
Patrick Craig is a very gifted writer mixing the Amish and English worlds together. Creating stories that will not let you stop reading until the last page. Mr. Craig also shares the message of God's love, forgiveness, mercy and grace while the characters are facing challenges, heartache, pain and loss.
September 7, 2013
I read someone else's review that stated something about a man writing a romance novel. I think many may look at a male romance novelist as an oxymoron. But if they feel that way, they are definitely going to miss out, especially in the case of The Road Home. Patrick Craig not only proves he can write a romance novel, but also that he can do it extremely well. The Road Home has suspense, romance, faith, and hope all rolled into one wonderful and beautifully written story that will capture you from the very beginning. If you haven't read A Quilt for Jenna, book 1 of the Apple Creek Dreams series (and I recommend that you do read it) you can still follow the story line, because Patrick throws in just enough to fill in the background without overdoing it. The Road Home does not disappoint. So for all of those that ask, "How can a man write a romance novel?", all they have to do is read The Road Home and they'll see just how it's done.
September 10, 2013
This is the first book I’ve read by Patrick Craig, but definitely will not be the last. From the opening page, I was swept away by his descriptive writing. He makes Apple Creek sound like a dream! This book is a continuation of the story of main character Jenny. She is a young Amish woman searching for the truth about her past and her birth parents. Though this book is the second in a series, the author graciously fills in the gaps for readers who haven’t read book 1.
When she meets Johnny, his own search for truth and meaning fuels Jenny’s search for her own answers.
This book has everything I love… Romance, mystery, suspense, faith and family…set in a wonderful Amish community I became a fast fan of.
This author and these characters have captured my imagination and my heart!
I love how the author brought Jenny and Johnny together and can’t wait for more in the series!!!!
When she meets Johnny, his own search for truth and meaning fuels Jenny’s search for her own answers.
This book has everything I love… Romance, mystery, suspense, faith and family…set in a wonderful Amish community I became a fast fan of.
This author and these characters have captured my imagination and my heart!
I love how the author brought Jenny and Johnny together and can’t wait for more in the series!!!!
January 2, 2019
Heartwarming. Heart wrenching. This book has it all. An unlikely match, a 1960's hippie type and an Amish girl meet and feel God's hand in their futures. Both come with baggage and issues, but they are led by a power greater than their own.
This book has all the feels. Yes, I read it in one day. Practically did nothing else. It was that good. I have to admit, this author is becoming one of my favorite Amish authors. There were so many places in this book that I found where the quotations were so mark worthy. Things I ould want to refer back to again at a later time.
This is book 2 of the Apple Creek Dreams series. I read book one just recently and in this book, Jenny, is grown up and trying to find her birth family but her Amish adoptive father will not approve. The storyline of the Rose of Sharon Quilt literally ties the two books together.
I had a special connection to this book as I am a professional genealogist, a topic which comes out in this book. I know the feelings of wanting to find your biological family, as I was recently able to do this myself in 2018 after a 40 year search. I know the need and the desire to know where you really belong and who you really are.
This book was a treasure!
This book has all the feels. Yes, I read it in one day. Practically did nothing else. It was that good. I have to admit, this author is becoming one of my favorite Amish authors. There were so many places in this book that I found where the quotations were so mark worthy. Things I ould want to refer back to again at a later time.
This is book 2 of the Apple Creek Dreams series. I read book one just recently and in this book, Jenny, is grown up and trying to find her birth family but her Amish adoptive father will not approve. The storyline of the Rose of Sharon Quilt literally ties the two books together.
I had a special connection to this book as I am a professional genealogist, a topic which comes out in this book. I know the feelings of wanting to find your biological family, as I was recently able to do this myself in 2018 after a 40 year search. I know the need and the desire to know where you really belong and who you really are.
This book was a treasure!
June 2, 2024
Patrick E. Craig has d9ne an amazing job with this set of books on Jenny Springer's journey from being rescued, to finding out who she is, and where she came from!
In this story, Jenny & Johnathan help each other to find out their heritage, family roots. This journey together brings them together in ways they didn't know were possible.
The way romance,mystery,suspense, faith, family history, love, hope, God, community, family help, and much more brings this story to life, is truly amazing.
I get started on these great stories, and can't put them down.
Grab a copy today & get started on great reads
In this story, Jenny & Johnathan help each other to find out their heritage, family roots. This journey together brings them together in ways they didn't know were possible.
The way romance,mystery,suspense, faith, family history, love, hope, God, community, family help, and much more brings this story to life, is truly amazing.
I get started on these great stories, and can't put them down.
Grab a copy today & get started on great reads
December 28, 2018
The Road Home is a true masterpiece!
It's actually kind of hard to describe how much I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Seldom will you find a romantic piece of fiction written with such innocence and integrity nowadays. But there's more to it than just romance. The telling of the family ties shows family at both their worst and best, and can make a grown man feel a little homesick.
It's also a gripping tale with intrigue and suspense. It definitely kept me locked in. I fully recommend this book and this series.
It's actually kind of hard to describe how much I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Seldom will you find a romantic piece of fiction written with such innocence and integrity nowadays. But there's more to it than just romance. The telling of the family ties shows family at both their worst and best, and can make a grown man feel a little homesick.
It's also a gripping tale with intrigue and suspense. It definitely kept me locked in. I fully recommend this book and this series.
March 5, 2025
This is Craig's second book in the Apple Creek Dreams series, and the story focuses on Jenny and Jonathan, who's running from a drug deal gone bad in San Francisco. Will Jonathan be able to help Jenny find her birth parents? And what will happen to their budding love when she's Amish, and he's an Englischer?
This was another engaging story. Although it could be read as a stand-alone, I think it would be better enjoyed if you've already read the first book. Once you start reading, it's hard to put down!
This was another engaging story. Although it could be read as a stand-alone, I think it would be better enjoyed if you've already read the first book. Once you start reading, it's hard to put down!
July 20, 2024
interesting book
This book started out very strange, but once I got into it, things started to become clearer. I’ve learned more about the Amish after reading these books. We lived in Wooster at one time, so these books bring back fond memories of that time in our lives. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
This book started out very strange, but once I got into it, things started to become clearer. I’ve learned more about the Amish after reading these books. We lived in Wooster at one time, so these books bring back fond memories of that time in our lives. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 25, 2019
OMGoodness! This book is so amazing. This Apple Creek Series is captivating. If you love a story with a lot of twist and turns and a great storyline this is the Series for you. Jenny and Jonathon are blossoming characters who capture your heart. Happy Reading.
June 21, 2020
Great intriguing story
I enjoyed reading the story of Jenny, Jerusha, Reuben and Jonathan. If we just have faith and trust in God all our questions and prayers will be answered.
I enjoyed reading the story of Jenny, Jerusha, Reuben and Jonathan. If we just have faith and trust in God all our questions and prayers will be answered.
October 31, 2022
Another awesome and uplifting book by Patrick E Craig
Read
December 31, 2022Love this book! You will also. Jenny is an amazing character!
April 19, 2024
Book 2 has a little more depth and scripture application than Book 1. The story/plot goes deeper and characters evolve and strengthen.
November 1, 2025
Loved the twist and turns!
This story was so intriguing. Any time you thought you knew where the story line was going to go, surprise! I loved this.
This story was so intriguing. Any time you thought you knew where the story line was going to go, surprise! I loved this.
December 30, 2025
I loved it. Love reading scriptures within a story. Wholesome & came with tears. Made me think - if only we all trusted God's plan... His way is better.
April 5, 2026
Excellent story! It kept moving! In hindsight, I could say that it was predictable, yet I didn't want to put the book down! I want to read more from this author.
February 11, 2014
Two young adults searching for something missing in their lives meet under unusual circumstances. As their paths cross Jenny and Johnny become acquainted and discover they have a common bond, the need to find out who they are as individuals. Adopted and raised Amish by Reuben and Jerusha Springer, Jenny has an insatiable curiosity about her past, who her biological parents were and how she ended up trapped in a car in a blizzard in Apple Creek, Ohio when she was only four years old.
Johnny Hershberger is a hippie escaping a drug deal gone bad. He escapes pursuit by the drug dealers through traveling off the beaten path in Amish country, Ohio. Noticing an Amish family working the fields near Apple Creek, Johnny stops to watch, and the scene brings him to tears. The sight is surreal as he recalls a recent dream. A strong feeling of familiarity affects his emotions, bringing more questions to the surface.
Repairing a badly damaged Rose of Sharon quilt is Jerusha's way of coping through difficult circumstances. As she makes repairs to the quilt she prays, and God speaks to her as she stitches. The quilt is a testament of life. God's deep and peaceful voice spoke to Jerusha as she kept her mind and hands busy. "I have things to show you, Jerusha - things that will help Jenny, but they will help you also. All of your life, you have been in My hand, and yet you still don't understand Me. The quilt is the key to understanding."
The second book in the Apple Creek Dreams series, the story of Jerusha and Reuben Springer continues, focusing on their adopted daughter, Jenny. This story is told with depth and detail, delivering a beautiful story of the love of family and the love of God. Jenny and Johnny's search for that missing link in their lives is a strong element in this installment of the series. Jerusha's Rose of Sharon quilt becomes a pivotal part of the story, as the quilt represents life in all its shapes and forms. Patrick E. Craig writes with brilliance and incredible insight, enveloping the reader in rich details and familiar emotions through his picturesque narrative. The Road Home kept me engrossed and left me with the comfort of being embraced by Jerusha's quilt. I highly recommend this book! It's a journey through broken and shattered lives, and exposure to life in its deepest, darkest moments, ultimately bringing peace through its spiritual revelations and restoration.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author through Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Johnny Hershberger is a hippie escaping a drug deal gone bad. He escapes pursuit by the drug dealers through traveling off the beaten path in Amish country, Ohio. Noticing an Amish family working the fields near Apple Creek, Johnny stops to watch, and the scene brings him to tears. The sight is surreal as he recalls a recent dream. A strong feeling of familiarity affects his emotions, bringing more questions to the surface.
Repairing a badly damaged Rose of Sharon quilt is Jerusha's way of coping through difficult circumstances. As she makes repairs to the quilt she prays, and God speaks to her as she stitches. The quilt is a testament of life. God's deep and peaceful voice spoke to Jerusha as she kept her mind and hands busy. "I have things to show you, Jerusha - things that will help Jenny, but they will help you also. All of your life, you have been in My hand, and yet you still don't understand Me. The quilt is the key to understanding."
The second book in the Apple Creek Dreams series, the story of Jerusha and Reuben Springer continues, focusing on their adopted daughter, Jenny. This story is told with depth and detail, delivering a beautiful story of the love of family and the love of God. Jenny and Johnny's search for that missing link in their lives is a strong element in this installment of the series. Jerusha's Rose of Sharon quilt becomes a pivotal part of the story, as the quilt represents life in all its shapes and forms. Patrick E. Craig writes with brilliance and incredible insight, enveloping the reader in rich details and familiar emotions through his picturesque narrative. The Road Home kept me engrossed and left me with the comfort of being embraced by Jerusha's quilt. I highly recommend this book! It's a journey through broken and shattered lives, and exposure to life in its deepest, darkest moments, ultimately bringing peace through its spiritual revelations and restoration.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author through Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
October 2, 2013
Title: The Road Home
Author: Patrick E. Craig
Pages: 356
Year: 2013
Publisher: Harvest House
Here is a novel that is not at all your typical Amish Fiction. First it takes place in the sixties, and is full of suspense and mystery. Patrick Craig is a story teller with his own technique. He’s not a rule follower, but just goes right into telling the story in his style.
I asked Patrick about his style. He had this to say. “I am fortunate to have inherited the… quality – I love to tell stories and I think that may be my saving grace, since my style seems to fly in the face of conventional wisdom. People seem like my books because of the story and the characters. So as writers, I think we will find the most success with a great story first, and then with strong characters.”
Another thing you must know about this author before I give my review is that he used to be a pastor. So he is already very gifted in sharing spiritual truths in a beautiful yet down to earth way.
Okay, so here is my review. This story follows Jenny, an adopted Amish girl, as she tries to figure out who she is. She goes on a journey to find out about her past, believing that she will feel complete, and whole by knowing where she comes from.
Johnny is a hippy that is on the run and finds himself in Jenny’s life. As they both discover their family roots and their love for each other, God works in their lives.
For the quilt lovers out there, there is a magnificent quilt in this story that is used to tie so much of their lives together and the truths of God’s love. There is praying, a strong deep amazing strength of prayer that is a foundation of this book. It is a beautiful gift.
I am not one to like a lot of description in the books I read. I did enjoy this story, with all of its twists and turns, mystery and the need to see Jenny through to find answers to her many questions. I also wanted more out of the romance. The best part by far for me was how the spiritual message of God’s love, salvation, and letting the Holy Spirit work in our lives––was told.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://TMWoodsBooks.com/blog . Also follow me on Twitter @TMWoodsBook, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/TMWoodsBooks .
Author: Patrick E. Craig
Pages: 356
Year: 2013
Publisher: Harvest House
Here is a novel that is not at all your typical Amish Fiction. First it takes place in the sixties, and is full of suspense and mystery. Patrick Craig is a story teller with his own technique. He’s not a rule follower, but just goes right into telling the story in his style.
I asked Patrick about his style. He had this to say. “I am fortunate to have inherited the… quality – I love to tell stories and I think that may be my saving grace, since my style seems to fly in the face of conventional wisdom. People seem like my books because of the story and the characters. So as writers, I think we will find the most success with a great story first, and then with strong characters.”
Another thing you must know about this author before I give my review is that he used to be a pastor. So he is already very gifted in sharing spiritual truths in a beautiful yet down to earth way.
Okay, so here is my review. This story follows Jenny, an adopted Amish girl, as she tries to figure out who she is. She goes on a journey to find out about her past, believing that she will feel complete, and whole by knowing where she comes from.
Johnny is a hippy that is on the run and finds himself in Jenny’s life. As they both discover their family roots and their love for each other, God works in their lives.
For the quilt lovers out there, there is a magnificent quilt in this story that is used to tie so much of their lives together and the truths of God’s love. There is praying, a strong deep amazing strength of prayer that is a foundation of this book. It is a beautiful gift.
I am not one to like a lot of description in the books I read. I did enjoy this story, with all of its twists and turns, mystery and the need to see Jenny through to find answers to her many questions. I also wanted more out of the romance. The best part by far for me was how the spiritual message of God’s love, salvation, and letting the Holy Spirit work in our lives––was told.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://TMWoodsBooks.com/blog . Also follow me on Twitter @TMWoodsBook, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/TMWoodsBooks .
November 13, 2013
Author Patrick Craig continues the story of Jenny Springer, the child rescued in A Quilt for Jenna with a story of reconciliation and healing.
Jenny Springer is the local historian for the Amish community in Apple Creek, Ohio. As a child, Jenny was rescued from a terrible snowstorm, and when no trace of her parents could be found, the Springer family adopted her. Since then she has had a burning desire in her heart to find out who she really is.
When a drifter, John Hershberger, comes to town looking for his own roots, Jenny gets serious in her search for her long-lost parents. As she opens doors to her past, she finds the truly surprising answer to her deepest questions. And as John discovers the story of his own heritage, his growing love for Jenny causes him to reexamine his lifelong atheism. In doing so he discovers his need for a real home, a family, and a relationship with God.
My Review:
The 1960's was an odd time in history, and I thoroughly enjoy Amish books in this time period. Add to it that a man wrote this novel, and I must say it made for a winning combination! The Amish genre is sugar-coated quite a bit these days, (that's not to say I don't enjoy them) but this is an eye-opening view of what life was like for them back then.
Jenny Springer and her parents are back in this second book to the Apple Creek Dreams Series. Adopted by Reuben and Jerusha Springer, Jenna's life is forever changed. Now grown up, she can't help but want to know what is in her past, and she is drawn into a world where drugs, hippies, crime and freedom of choice is the norm. She meets a young man (but of course!) who is also looking for his roots, and they instantly connect as they journey into the past for answers of who they are.
The element in this book that was a winner for me, was that the message of salvation is plain to see in the writing. Craig is a former pastor, so I expected no less, but I was pleasantly surprised with the richness of the writing, and the power of God's Word throughout the story. The final conclusion is that this is a must-read from the Amish genre; different, but inspirational and uplifting.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
Jenny Springer is the local historian for the Amish community in Apple Creek, Ohio. As a child, Jenny was rescued from a terrible snowstorm, and when no trace of her parents could be found, the Springer family adopted her. Since then she has had a burning desire in her heart to find out who she really is.
When a drifter, John Hershberger, comes to town looking for his own roots, Jenny gets serious in her search for her long-lost parents. As she opens doors to her past, she finds the truly surprising answer to her deepest questions. And as John discovers the story of his own heritage, his growing love for Jenny causes him to reexamine his lifelong atheism. In doing so he discovers his need for a real home, a family, and a relationship with God.
My Review:
The 1960's was an odd time in history, and I thoroughly enjoy Amish books in this time period. Add to it that a man wrote this novel, and I must say it made for a winning combination! The Amish genre is sugar-coated quite a bit these days, (that's not to say I don't enjoy them) but this is an eye-opening view of what life was like for them back then.
Jenny Springer and her parents are back in this second book to the Apple Creek Dreams Series. Adopted by Reuben and Jerusha Springer, Jenna's life is forever changed. Now grown up, she can't help but want to know what is in her past, and she is drawn into a world where drugs, hippies, crime and freedom of choice is the norm. She meets a young man (but of course!) who is also looking for his roots, and they instantly connect as they journey into the past for answers of who they are.
The element in this book that was a winner for me, was that the message of salvation is plain to see in the writing. Craig is a former pastor, so I expected no less, but I was pleasantly surprised with the richness of the writing, and the power of God's Word throughout the story. The final conclusion is that this is a must-read from the Amish genre; different, but inspirational and uplifting.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2015
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
(copied from Amazon.com)
Author Patrick Craig continues the story of Jenny Springer, the child rescued in "A Quilt for Jenna" with a story of reconciliation and healing. Jenny Springer is the local historian for the Amish community in Apple Creek, Ohio. As a child, Jenny was rescued from a terrible snowstorm, and when no trace of her parents could be found, the Springer family adopted her. Since then she has had a burning desire in her heart to find out who she really is. When a drifter, John Hershberger, comes to town looking for his own roots, Jenny gets serious in her search for her long-lost parents. As she opens doors to her past, she finds the truly surprising answer to her deepest questions. And as John discovers the story of his own heritage, his growing love for Jenny causes him to reexamine his lifelong atheism. In doing so he discovers his need for a real home, a family, and a relationship with God.
MY REVIEW
This book kept me pulled into the story so much more than the first one, I could hardly put it down. Patrick did a great job of making me feel as if I were experiencing the emotions of the characters yourself, I found myself cringing at times, happy at times and near tears other times. I liked the first book but didn't care for the style it was written but knew I would read the other books in the series and am so glad I did, a huge improvement as far as I was concerned. He also makes you think about your faith and how you may be interpreting the Bible, he expresses a deep faith in this book. Ok, onto the next book, "Jenny's Choice", in a few days!!!!
(copied from Amazon.com)
Author Patrick Craig continues the story of Jenny Springer, the child rescued in "A Quilt for Jenna" with a story of reconciliation and healing. Jenny Springer is the local historian for the Amish community in Apple Creek, Ohio. As a child, Jenny was rescued from a terrible snowstorm, and when no trace of her parents could be found, the Springer family adopted her. Since then she has had a burning desire in her heart to find out who she really is. When a drifter, John Hershberger, comes to town looking for his own roots, Jenny gets serious in her search for her long-lost parents. As she opens doors to her past, she finds the truly surprising answer to her deepest questions. And as John discovers the story of his own heritage, his growing love for Jenny causes him to reexamine his lifelong atheism. In doing so he discovers his need for a real home, a family, and a relationship with God.
MY REVIEW
This book kept me pulled into the story so much more than the first one, I could hardly put it down. Patrick did a great job of making me feel as if I were experiencing the emotions of the characters yourself, I found myself cringing at times, happy at times and near tears other times. I liked the first book but didn't care for the style it was written but knew I would read the other books in the series and am so glad I did, a huge improvement as far as I was concerned. He also makes you think about your faith and how you may be interpreting the Bible, he expresses a deep faith in this book. Ok, onto the next book, "Jenny's Choice", in a few days!!!!
October 10, 2016
I wanted to like this book. Some of it was good, other parts were a bit cheesy and unbelievable.
Jenny, a four year old, was found in the woods by an Amish woman. She was alone and it wasn't until the spring that they realized she could be adopted, when the frozen waters thawed and a body of a man she was probably with was found dead and no one claimed her as missing.
She wants to find her roots, but is not allowed. She helps a young hippy she just met (it's about 1969 I'm assuming) find his Amish roots in the archives of her town library, and within less than a week they are professing their love for each other. Yeesh.
I was bothered by the author's departure from reality and putting unbelievable situations within the Amish parts. They don't hold hands and pray out loud in restaurants. They don't hear the voice of God telling them this or that. They don't come up with typically evangelical beliefs about their assurance of salvation by grace. They stick to their ordnung and God is not as personal and mystical to them as they view Him are in this book. This was just too far a stretch for me to buy.
Sorry, but I've read too many Amish books to enjoy something this far fetched. The gospel was presented very well, and I didn't have a problem with any faith issues written. My problem was the use of the Amish to portray these faith issues. Perhaps if it was based around a Baptist family...it would have made much more sense...but not Amish.
There was lots more to it, but it's not worth going into.
Jenny, a four year old, was found in the woods by an Amish woman. She was alone and it wasn't until the spring that they realized she could be adopted, when the frozen waters thawed and a body of a man she was probably with was found dead and no one claimed her as missing.
She wants to find her roots, but is not allowed. She helps a young hippy she just met (it's about 1969 I'm assuming) find his Amish roots in the archives of her town library, and within less than a week they are professing their love for each other. Yeesh.
I was bothered by the author's departure from reality and putting unbelievable situations within the Amish parts. They don't hold hands and pray out loud in restaurants. They don't hear the voice of God telling them this or that. They don't come up with typically evangelical beliefs about their assurance of salvation by grace. They stick to their ordnung and God is not as personal and mystical to them as they view Him are in this book. This was just too far a stretch for me to buy.
Sorry, but I've read too many Amish books to enjoy something this far fetched. The gospel was presented very well, and I didn't have a problem with any faith issues written. My problem was the use of the Amish to portray these faith issues. Perhaps if it was based around a Baptist family...it would have made much more sense...but not Amish.
There was lots more to it, but it's not worth going into.
September 12, 2013
I loved the first book in the Apple Creek Dreams Series, A Quilt For Jenna. I opened The Road Home with a bit of trepidation, hoping it would be as good.
Rest assured, Patrick Craig is a gifted novelist and he writes a page-turner. I enjoyed catching up with Jerusha, Reuben, and Jenny. We got just enough of the backstory from the first book so a new reader knows what's going on, but not so much that it bogged down the new story. When we left the Springer family, they had just welcomed four-year old Jenny into their family.
The Road Home opens in 1965. Jenny has grown into a lovely young woman, but she is plagued by feelings of not fitting in in her Amish family and community. She loves her adoptive parents, but yearns to know who she is and where she came from.
Johnny's story begins in San Francisco, in the midst of the drug and free love culture. He witnesses a crime and flees the city with drug dealers on his tail. He spends a few days in Apple Creek and meets Jenny. The two are drawn together by a shared sense of something missing. When the drug dealers find Johnny and Jenny, their lives are in great danger. Only by God's grace do they get away and get answers to all their questions.
I'm looking forward to the next installment from Patrick Craig, Jenny's Choice. I'm intrigued and wondering what her choice is all about.
The Road Home is a recommended read!
--I received a free copy of The Road Home from Mr. Craig and Harvest House in return for an honest review.
Rest assured, Patrick Craig is a gifted novelist and he writes a page-turner. I enjoyed catching up with Jerusha, Reuben, and Jenny. We got just enough of the backstory from the first book so a new reader knows what's going on, but not so much that it bogged down the new story. When we left the Springer family, they had just welcomed four-year old Jenny into their family.
The Road Home opens in 1965. Jenny has grown into a lovely young woman, but she is plagued by feelings of not fitting in in her Amish family and community. She loves her adoptive parents, but yearns to know who she is and where she came from.
Johnny's story begins in San Francisco, in the midst of the drug and free love culture. He witnesses a crime and flees the city with drug dealers on his tail. He spends a few days in Apple Creek and meets Jenny. The two are drawn together by a shared sense of something missing. When the drug dealers find Johnny and Jenny, their lives are in great danger. Only by God's grace do they get away and get answers to all their questions.
I'm looking forward to the next installment from Patrick Craig, Jenny's Choice. I'm intrigued and wondering what her choice is all about.
The Road Home is a recommended read!
--I received a free copy of The Road Home from Mr. Craig and Harvest House in return for an honest review.
September 12, 2013
Thursday, September 12, 2013
The Road Home by Patrick E. Craig, ©2013
Take a map, put a dot where you have lived, connect the dots ~ where does it lead you ~ have you come this way again? Happenstance, coincidence? We are on a path created expressly for us, each one for God's good purpose.
In our story, Jenny and Johnny are on their journey arriving at the day they find themselves in contact with each other. Fun; let's begin. Well, not in direct contact....
Wooster, Wayne County, Ohio, 1965.
Johnny Hershberger made a left hand turn as Jenny Springer stepped off the curb in front of him. As they discuss their near miss, Jenny tells him that there are Hershbergers in Apple Creek where she lives ~ in fact, it is her mother's maiden name.
Sheltered in the arms of love, as Jenna's quilt lovingly warmed Jenny, the story continues. Sweet Jenny. Her story unfolds as she discovers her past is tied into her future.
The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.
--Isaiah 58:11
Join Jenny as she seeks to discover who she is. In the finding, she recognizes her main shelter all along that brings her home.
~*I will see you after spring planting.*~
I am looking forward to reading Jenny's Choice, Book 3 in the Apple Creek Dreams Series.
***Special thanks to Ginger Chen for sending me a review copy.***
The Road Home by Patrick E. Craig, ©2013
Take a map, put a dot where you have lived, connect the dots ~ where does it lead you ~ have you come this way again? Happenstance, coincidence? We are on a path created expressly for us, each one for God's good purpose.
In our story, Jenny and Johnny are on their journey arriving at the day they find themselves in contact with each other. Fun; let's begin. Well, not in direct contact....
Wooster, Wayne County, Ohio, 1965.
Johnny Hershberger made a left hand turn as Jenny Springer stepped off the curb in front of him. As they discuss their near miss, Jenny tells him that there are Hershbergers in Apple Creek where she lives ~ in fact, it is her mother's maiden name.
Sheltered in the arms of love, as Jenna's quilt lovingly warmed Jenny, the story continues. Sweet Jenny. Her story unfolds as she discovers her past is tied into her future.
The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.
--Isaiah 58:11
Join Jenny as she seeks to discover who she is. In the finding, she recognizes her main shelter all along that brings her home.
~*I will see you after spring planting.*~
I am looking forward to reading Jenny's Choice, Book 3 in the Apple Creek Dreams Series.
***Special thanks to Ginger Chen for sending me a review copy.***
January 15, 2014
A Real Page Turner!
The Road Home is book two in the Apple Creek Dreams Series. This book is about Jenny Springer, the little girl who was rescued by Jerusha in book one A Quilt for Jenny. After the rescue, Reuben and Jerusha adopted Jenny. Even though Jenny loves her adopted parents she has the burning need and desire to find out who her birth parents are.
I loved book one. I couldn’t believe that book two could be even better. Author Patrick E. Craig really knows how to keep you interested with twists, turns, and excitement. I picked this book up every chance that I got. I had to know about Jenny’s search.
This book isn’t just about Jenny as you will find out. There are so many other characters in this book that are not only interesting but very fascinating. Good characters as well as bad characters. I found myself with some very anxious moments because after all, I was drawn into the story as well. I had to help Jenny, didn’t I?
There are also some lessons to learn about turning everything over to God and allowing him to have control over our lives. I really enjoyed the interaction that some of the characters had with God. I will admit that I shed some tears at the end of this book.
I am looking forward to reading book three in this series, Jenny’s Choice.
The Road Home is book two in the Apple Creek Dreams Series. This book is about Jenny Springer, the little girl who was rescued by Jerusha in book one A Quilt for Jenny. After the rescue, Reuben and Jerusha adopted Jenny. Even though Jenny loves her adopted parents she has the burning need and desire to find out who her birth parents are.
I loved book one. I couldn’t believe that book two could be even better. Author Patrick E. Craig really knows how to keep you interested with twists, turns, and excitement. I picked this book up every chance that I got. I had to know about Jenny’s search.
This book isn’t just about Jenny as you will find out. There are so many other characters in this book that are not only interesting but very fascinating. Good characters as well as bad characters. I found myself with some very anxious moments because after all, I was drawn into the story as well. I had to help Jenny, didn’t I?
There are also some lessons to learn about turning everything over to God and allowing him to have control over our lives. I really enjoyed the interaction that some of the characters had with God. I will admit that I shed some tears at the end of this book.
I am looking forward to reading book three in this series, Jenny’s Choice.
February 9, 2019
Jenny Springer knew she was adopted and loved. She knew a bit of her story. She knew how she came to be the daughter of Reuben and Jerusha Springer. What she didn’t know, and what seemed to bother her now that she was older, was where she came from and who she was. Who was her birth mother and what, if anything, had happened to her? She was raised Amish but had she been born Amish?
Johnny Hershberger (aka) Johnny the Candyman was living the hippie lifestyle. His hair was long, he was doing drugs, and he drove a Volkswagen bus covered with flowers and pictures. Johnny was an aspiring singer who took his guitar and his bus, left his home in Long Island, and headed for California.
These two young people have nothing in common. Or do they? Craig has a different writing style from other Amish authors and is a wonderful story teller! His stories draw you in and keep your attention to the end. I thoroughly loved reading Jenny and Johnny’s stories and you will
Johnny Hershberger (aka) Johnny the Candyman was living the hippie lifestyle. His hair was long, he was doing drugs, and he drove a Volkswagen bus covered with flowers and pictures. Johnny was an aspiring singer who took his guitar and his bus, left his home in Long Island, and headed for California.
These two young people have nothing in common. Or do they? Craig has a different writing style from other Amish authors and is a wonderful story teller! His stories draw you in and keep your attention to the end. I thoroughly loved reading Jenny and Johnny’s stories and you will
October 1, 2013
After reading A Quilt for Jenna I couldn't wait to start reading The Road Home. This book had me in tears because of Jenny. Jenny, an English girl who was adopted by Jerusha and Reuben when she was found by Jerusha in the first book of the series. Jenny grew up Amish with the desired to find her birth parents. I was drawn into this story because I myself have been adopted and also had the desire to find my birth parents but never looked into it. This book isn't just about Jenny, the characters in the first book are there along with a few newcomers. Patrick E. Craig really hit the spot on this book. I enjoyed the first book but this second book was even better. Will the third book in the series top them both? I recommend anyone to read this series. I'm really looking forward to reading Jenny’s Choice, book 3 in this series.
January 8, 2014
Pages 271 +272 say it all. This book was a very heart warming story. We all have a past and memories that either haunt us or make us happy. We never know what others have been through and need to respect their feelings. This book taught my heart to remember that. I still have about 70 pages to go but I had to get this off my chest.
June 2, 2014
A good follow-up book two for the Apple Creek Dreams Series. And one of the best books I've ever read that explains the different between believing there is a God and actually accepting God as your Lord.
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