Reviewing: The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher

I recently read The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher. This is book 3 in  The Bishop Family series and I have enjoyed watching David Stoltzfus' family grow through the years of the series. This story is no exception as we learn more about Ruthie who has grown into a desirable, loving yet independent young lady.  We also get to know David's Englisch sister Dr. Ruth for whom Ruthie is named. The two women's lives parallel as they go from caring for men who tug at their heart yet aren't necessarily good for them.  Both are at a crossroad in their lives. Ruthie has earned top scores on the GED test she secretly took and feels there must be more than living in her sleepy Amish community.  Her aunt is faced with leaving a hectic career as and emergency room doctor after taking the heat for another doctor's mistake.  Private practice could be the answer to her prayers to get back to making a real difference in people's lives.

Patrick Kelly is new to the area and captures Ruthie's attention. He wants to learn all he can about becoming Amish and he will only be there for thirty days. She is considering leaving the Amish community.  He hires her to teach him Pennsylvania Dutch while her brother Jesse will teach him how to drive a buggy. 

David enjoys many long talks about the faith with Patrick and soon learns things about his community that he was unaware of.  While the people seem to be living out their faith, some things seem to be letting small things go by the wayside. Business on Sunday? Driving golf carts? The bishop is growing concerned as word of how his community is sliding away from their way of life. It is inspiring how he comes to a solution for problems he could easily have simply put his foot down.  He is not one to rule with the iron fist of an old school bishop. His lessons are well worth the read

The story is a wonderful reminder of how important values are no matter your faith.  I enjoy going back to Stoney Ridge and reading of how favorite characters have evolved from story to story. Best selling author Suzanne Woods Fisher is a gifted writer whose stories keep us coming back for more. 

The Calm Before the Storm Awaits In The Quieting

Suzanne Woods Fisher has written about the Amish in Stoney Ridge for years.  I have enjoyed reading about the families of this community as though I were catching up with old friends.  The Quieting, in the Bishop's Family Series (Book 2)  is no exception.  The characters come to life and I find myself cheering them on or shaking my head.

David Stotlzfus, widowed father of six is one of the ministers at the Amish Church.  He is at odds with Freeman Glick, the Bishop over a matter that could have lasting implications for their church leadership.  David is a thoughtful, caring man without a competitive nature who wants what is right for his church. 

As he wrestles how to handle this he has a surprise visit by his domineering mother and two grown nieces. They plan to fix David's household, lend support in the church matter and reorganize his small store.  David's mother Tillie, aka "Mammi the Meddler" keeps her finger in every pie and in doing so exasperates all who love her dearly.  

Mammi brings along Laura and Gabby (Abigail) as reinforcements. Abigail, a very serious and literal young woman assists her father with his work in genealogy.  She is secretly pleased to be there in order to complete a study for a client in Stoney Ridge.  Finishing up the study is her main goal but not before she meets a young man who has eyes only for her. Not as socially equipped as her sister, Gabby has struggles of her own to manage before she unfolds an interesting leaf on the Glick family tree.

There is a community within the pages of this book and the members come together to tie things up nicely. From mis-matched matchmaking to drilling for oil, there is never a dull moment in Stoney Ridge.  I heartily recommend this book but not before you have read The Imposter where this story begins.  Both books could be standalone, but reading both enriches the story. I am already looking forward The Devoted, (Book 3) due for release in October 2016.