Reviewer: Lori Graham
Title: The Brethren
Author: Beverly Lewis
Publisher: Bethany House
ISBN: 0-7642-0107-7
Release Date: October 2006
Genre/Sub-genre: Inspirational Romance
Year/Setting: Current/Lancaster County, PA (mainly)
Overall Rating: 4.25
Sexual Content Rating: None
Language (Profanity) Rating: None
Violent Content Rating: None
Beverly's Website: www.beverlylewis.com
Annie Zook is living among her family in Lancaster County but she really isn’t feeling a part of them these days. Annie wonders where she fits into the scheme of things. Her father, one of the preachers, is waiting for her to stand before the congregation which she is just not ready to do yet. In fact, she is currently living with her dear friend, Essie (who is currently shunned), while Essie’s husband is dealing with his own serious issues. Annie can’t get two things off her mind so she can make her stand. The first is her art. She has discovered her painting and the thought of never painting again is almost more than she can bear. She also can’t forget a man dear to her heart, Ben. Ben is an Englischer, however, and there is no room for that in her life. She is really struggling.
Zeke (Essie’s husband mentioned before) is dealing with believing he killed his little brother (Annie’s best childhood friend), Isaac, years prior. He finally couldn’t stand the guilt any longer and has turned himself into the police.
So, Annie is helping Essie, the police are wandering through the community trying to solve an old crime and decisions all have to be made. Along returns Ben to wreak all kinds of havoc. What next for Annie?
Beverly Lewis is, as always, very detailed in her writings about the Amish and the life they lead. She writes it in such a way that even an "Englischer" can grasp what is happening – maybe not always why but at least the what. She has also created characters who grow and mature throughout the story. We walk the path along side of them as they work through their issues and decide which way their path is going.
The only thing I struggled with was the start of The Brethren. As a sequel, this book is top notch and really continues the story and creates a fitting climax. However, as a stand alone it was tough to get a handle on who everyone is. I had read the previous ones but I had to go back to them and catch up/skim so that it was easier to get into. It is possible to get into it even without so please don’t forego this story if you haven’t read the others. The Brethren is a calming read whether you read just it or the entire series.
Lori
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