The Proving

I have nearly all of Beverly Lewis's books now and I have enjoyed each one of them. She combines the Amish culture, with mystery and twists and quotes from the Bible and in general the Amish approach towards religion. The Proving was another very well done book combining everything that I have come to love with this author.

I am becoming more and more a fan of Beverly Lewis’ work. One of the things I really appreciate about her writing is that while prayer, Christianity, and faith in God have a large role in the books, they don’t interrupt the flow of the story. Sometimes I will be happily engrossed in a book only to have a character suddenly make a pronouncement about how God answers prayers, or how God loves everyone. It comes off as very preachy and sometimes as an afterthought. Like “Whoops! I didn’t mention our Loving Savior on page 49! Better go back and insert something!” Thoughts of God and faith are so ingrained in the Amish way of life that it’s normal to speak of them. And instead of feeling as though she is preaching to us through her stories, Beverly Lewis has a knack of blending everything perfectly, thanks to her well-developed characters and wonderful tales.

In this one, Amanda ran away from her Amish life with two other girls five years ago, There had been a terrible rift between her and her twin sister, Arie Mae, and their mother’s exasperated “Why don’t you just go?” gave her what she felt was reason enough to leave the Plain life. But five years is a long time, and Amanda has settled into her Englischer lifestyle when word comes that her mother has died suddenly – and has left the farmhouse and the successful bed & breakfast business that goes along with it to Amanda! Naturally, she takes up this challenge, determined to stay in her old home and run the business successfully (and profitably!) for one year. After that, the papers will be signed over to her and she can do as she pleases with the business, which means she will seek out a good real estate agent and place it on the market so she can get back to her Englischer lifestyle.

But what about her twin sister, whom she learns lives just the next farm over? What about the family she has there, and the soft urging to return to the Plain life? And… what about that handsome Karl, who comes over to help with repairs and such?

**I was sent this copy from Bethany House in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.**

What an amazing story. Couldn't put it down! Felt like I got to know the characters well as the book progressed. Made me want to live in that inn and get to know them even better. And it was wonderful to see how God worked in hearts to change them, grow their love, cause them to forgive, and eventually relationships could be restored. Have enjoyed all of Beverly Lewis' books and this one is no exception, in fact, if I could give it 6 stars, I would!

Another Beverly Lewis win in The Proving. Beverly never fails or provide us with a compelling story with accuracy and compassion.
Amanda Dienner left the Amish after she saw her sister, Arie Mae, kissing her beau, Joshua, and her mother sided with Arie Mae. She'd never intended to leave, but after five years she's adapted and doesn't feel like she can return.
Her mother dies and leaves her Bed and Breakfast to Amanda with stipulations. She accepts the challenge, plans on working the inn for the required year then selling it and returning to the outside world. She still feels betrayed by her sister, who lives next door with Joshua who helps with repair work and upkeep of the inn.
Karl Lantz a neighbor, is a widower and single father that helps out with the horses. Yonnie, Karl's son grows fond of Amanda as does Karl.
Will Amanda forgive Arie Mae and Joshua? Will she let go of the resentment for being all but shunned by her family and the community? Will she let herself love Karl and Yonnie and stay?
I received a free copy from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group. No review, positive or otherwise, was required – all opinions are my own.

Great

great value

The book is very close to "new" condition, and it arrived as quickly as promised. Very happy with this purchase!

a book to enjoy reading thank you !!!ac dc

Another great book from Beverly Lewis. It has a come back home story, that truly captures the unconditional love of family. Mandy is in all of us. She sets out on her own only to realize that the love of family will bring her back into the fold of acceptance she could not find out in the world. All Beverly's books tell of the faith, value and community of the Amish community.

loved it