The Calling

Last night I finished reading the Calling, Suzanne Woods Fisher's latest book in the Inn at Eagle Hill series. I had been anticipating the release of this book since reading the first book, The Letters.

The Schrock family lost everything with the downfall family business, Schrock Family Investments, forcing them to move in with their grandmother; their oldest son, Tobe disappeared and their father died in an accident, all within a year.  Leaving more questions than answers, we meet with the surviving Schrock family members once again and how they are surviving at Eagle Hill.

Bethany Schrock, the main character in this book is a young woman faced with many trials. She has lost her father, her brother is missing and she still feels the blight of being abandoned by her mother. Her heart aches from the realization that her romance with Jake was one sided. She meets with unbelievable acts at his hand that prove what a scoundrel he truly is.

Intertwined through the story along with Bethany is Geena, a recently fired Youth Minister. She came to the inn for a breather, happily staying on as a summer heat wave brought cancellations to the inn. Both young women will find their own calling as the story unfolds and their friendship deepens.

The Calling is full of romance, mystery and the importance of family, friendship and trust. I like how Suzanne develops the characters in the story. Bethany and Geena, as expected grow within these pages as expected. Carefree Jimmy Fisher, who is in love with Bethany, must prove himself to Bethany throughout the book.  Edith, Jimmy's mother also shows a glimpse of who she really is. The Sisters are delightful, showing how much love and determination can do for us all in the spirit of their generosity.

The book opens itself to another novel that I hope will give more insight into the lives of these wonderful Amish people who seem more like friends than characters in a novel. I am looking forward to the release of The Revealing in July 2014. Six months seems a long time to wait when I get hooked on a series, but I waited for The Calling and it was worth the wait!