River of Mercy

Riverhaven Years #3

by B.J. Hoff

Bestselling author BJ Hoff’s faithful fans will delight in the heartwarming conclusion to her acclaimed Riverhaven Years trilogy, following the success of the first two books in the series, Rachel’s Secret and Where Grace Abides . In this third book, young Gideon Kanagy faces a life-changing challenge--and an unexpected romance with his young Amish friend, Emma Knepp. Gideon’s sister, Rachel, and the "outsider" Jeremiah Gant add to the drama with their own dilemma and its repercussions for the entire community of Riverhaven.

As with all of BJ's popular books, unforgettable characters and well-drawn suspense keep readers turning pages into the wee hours.

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

320 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2010

About the author

BJ Hoff’s writing is known for her historical settings, her unforgettable characters, and her lyrical prose. She is the bestselling author of numerous historical fiction series, including the Riverhaven Years, the Mountain Song Legacy, the Song of Erin saga, the American Anthem series, An Emerald Ballad series, and her newest book Harp on the Willow.

Her five-volume Emerald Ballad series was the first major work of fiction to bring the Irish immigration experience to the CBA marketplace, and the work that first brought BJ an international reading audience.

Her readers know they can expect to meet some memorable people in her novels and also know that many of those people will be immigrants; Irish immigrants particularly but not exclusively.

BJ admits to a passion for building worlds. Whether her characters move about in small country towns or metropolitan areas, reside in Amish settlements, secluded mansions, or coal company houses, she creates communities where people can form relationships, raise families, pursue their faith, and experience the mountains and valleys of life.

She’s intent on making her historical novels relevant to the present by developing characters and settings that, while staying true to the history and culture of their times, reflect many of the spiritual trials and social problems faced by contemporary readers. Her novels are meant to be stories that build a bridge from the past to the present.

Her literary awards include the Christianity Today’s Critics Choice Book Award for fiction; a Gold Medallion Award finalist; and a number of Excellence in Media Silver Angel awards. Her books have been translated into many foreign languages, and she frequently hears from her international readers in countries such as Ireland, England, Norway, and Germany.

A former church music director and music teacher, BJ writes from her home in a small town in east central Ohio. She and her husband share a love of music, books, and time spent with their family: two daughters and three lively young grandsons.

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This conclusion to the trilogy was so good. It finally addressed all of the threads of the story line that had been left dangling. The crisis and resolution was so surprising and satisfying. A well-written novel with intriguing characters.

[Dorrice · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has become a habit for me to read all the books in a series and then write a review of the series. This is a review of The Riverhaven Years, a trilogy set in pre-Civil War years. Some of the people in the stories are involved in the Underground Railroad The main focus in the stories is the romance that developed between Rachel, a young Amish widow. and an Irishman who landed on her doorstep in the middle of a stormy night, wounded and possibly not even going to survive. Because he was not Amish, marriage was not possible for them. He eventually made the decision to become Amish, but was denied by the bishop. After many troubles a new bishop gave the go-ahead to his desire to become Amish and they were married. The last book ends with Rachel about to give birth to twins.

This was my introduction to B. J. Hoff, and I am going to add her to my favorite authors list. Her writing is beautiful.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a wonderful end to the trilogy. My only complaint is some rehashing of already explained ideas, however, that may have been to help keep readers in the loop who haven't read the prior books. In this book, you find out who is behind the mischief. I thought I knew who it was, but the author fooled me! Once again, this is a book that I couldn't put down and finished in a couple of days.

[Michele A. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found the book to be a good read.The plot to had diffferent aspects to it which kept me reading it. The writing fowed well and kept my interest. A good book to read on a Saturday afternoon with a good cup of coffee.

[Paula-O · Rating 4 out of 5]

reviewed this as series on book #1 ....check out my review there.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great ending to the series!! Samuel Beiler is quite the character. He is very strict and controlling over Rachael - and the Amish community in general when he is made Bishop. Jeremiah's hopes are dashed for being able to convert to Amish with Samuel as the Bishop. Bad things are happening to Rachael and it is a total surprise who is behind all the bad things that have happened in the community (Fannie getting tormented by Englishers, Susan's barn catching on fire, Phoebe's death, someone breaking into Rachel's house and destroying her art room where she makes the birdhouses, and then the actual time someone tries to break into Rachel's when she is home). Things come to light which make it impossible for Samuel to continue as Bishop. Malachi is selected and he grants Jeremiah's wish to convert to Amish. Gideon is also returning to his roots. He has his eyes set for Emma. Epilogue was a fun way to wrap up the series. I've not read this author before, but I thoroughly enjoyed this series.

[Rosemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this is the conclusion of the trilogy. In this last book, Rachel and Jeremiah are afraid they will never be able to marry, the most unacceptable person becomes Bishop, and the attacks against the Amish community become more personal. Both Rachel and Jeremiah, as well as Rachel's brother Gideon, struggle with their faith to believe that all things are truly in God's control and will work to the good for all concerned. The plot twisted a few times, as well, as I learned who was truly behind the horrible acts committed against the People.

What a fantastic series! B.J. Hoff is an amazing writer. There aren't too many authors that can keep me reading past midnight and into the moments before sunrise! (Oh yes, you did, Ms. Hoff!)

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series, I just couldn't wait to be able to pick it up again to read. I feel like I got to know the characters so well.

So much tragedy in this simple community, cruelty inflicted on lovely individuals, but finally it all comes to a happy ending.

The love interests are so pure and deep, makes one long for the days of high morals, and the desire to do what's pleasing to God.

[Wendy Forsyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in the Riverhaven series, 'River of Mercy' was a good read. Mind you, this series isn't exactly 'must read' stuff, a bit corny even- but somehow I found myself keen to complete the trilogy.

[penny larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the edge of my seat

I had just finished the last book in the series The Riverhaven years. With so many twists and turns I couldn't stop reading. Great characters,would recommend reading all 3 ,but good on to your seat.😉

[Heidi Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series. I’ve read many novels about the Amish, and they can seem rather formulaic, but not these books. The characters are strongly crafted and true to life, and the underlying theme of the Underground Railroad adds depth. The theology issue of works versus grace is well-presented.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conclusion of the series 'the riverhaven years' has been a good read. the final events bring about who was responsible for riverhaven vandelism, and how the relationship between Rachel and Jeremish are resolved after a new bishop is chosen.

[Linda Klager · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed all three of these books very much. I highly recommend them to anyone who wants to learn more about the Amish and their way of life.

[M · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just okay.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book shows how much power an Amish bishop has and how they are able to get rid of them once it goes to far. A romance and deciding if they should stay Amish or not adds to the story.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read. Third of the series.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good book very good series

[Gaile · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the third and last book in The Riverhaven Years. In the first two books, Rachel's Secret and Where Grace Abides, the reader was left with a cliff hanger. All the ends were not tied. At last in this one, the ends are finally tied up and all is woven together.
Taking place in the 1850s this book shows the basic beliefs of the Amish haven't changed that much over time.
Amish woman Rachel Brenneman has been in love with outsider Jeremiah Gant for sometime. Both feel frustrated that no way will ever be found for them to marry. Then there is Amish man Samuel Beiler who has a quite forceful personality. He is obsessed with Rachel but she doesn't want him. In this book, Samuel becomes a bishop and thinks he can now coerce her into marriage with him. In the meantime attacks and harassment continue on the Amish community Rachel lives in. The danger comes closer and closer to Rachel but who is really behind it?

[Pat Bettis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good ending for the series.

[Linda Branich · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the third book in the Riverhaven trilogy and I must say that I am disappointed to say goodbye to these God-fearing, righteous Amish people who struggle with many of the same things we Englischer
( auslanders) do. I recommend all three books, especially if you are interested in either the Amish oe the Underground Railroad.

[Janie R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really interesting and good conclusion to this trilogy! Though there were cliff hangers in the 1st and 2nd book, I didn't mind, there are other authors who do that, also. I really enjoyed reading this book!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this last book to the Riverhaven Years Series. BJ Hoff did not disappoint! I felt like this one had a lot more suspense to it, and several good story lines going on at once. The ending was perfect!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fitting end to the series. It tied up some loose ends that had appeared in the first two books, and revealed the identity of the People's 'troubler'. I enjoyed the themes of needing to seek God's will rather than your own, and trusting in His timing and mercy.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: I read this as a free eARC from Netgalley.
I love this series. It is a sweet trilogy of love and faith in God.

[Dianne]

Reading this book right now! B.J. Hoff is a great writer! We waited a long time and this is well worth the wait!

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really like this book. Finally the conclusion to the Riverhaven Years trilogy. Spoiler: Rachel and Jeremiah finally get together after many trials and troubles!!

[Mary Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good read with an engaging mystery that had a few plot twists that kept it really interresting.

[Catherine Lovett · Rating 4 out of 5]

A satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.

[Joni · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting reading. Learned about the Amish ways and about hiding the slaves.

[Midge · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great finish to the trilogy, brought it all together and have a good ending.