Reviewed by: Ceil Carey, long time book discussion leader and retired public librarian

Church: Community Christian Church, Yorkville, IL 60560

Introduction

Title: The River

Author: Beverly Lewis

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Publication Date: Sept 2, 2014

Format: Paperback

Length: 320 pages

OVERVIEW

Tilly and Ruth are two sisters brought up in an Amish home, both now living in the Englisch world. Their faith in Christ has remained strong but neither has had any desire to return home, even for a visit. It takes a lot of courage to convince them they should attend their parents’ anniversary get-together. The fact that their father is not well is the piece that cinches it for them. Going home together will surely be easier than returning alone.

The past meets the present in their homegoing. Tilly still carries guilt for her young sister’s drowning and would love to know why her father has never truly seemed to love and accept her, always showing such a critical spirit toward her in every way. And what will her mother say when Tilly returns Anna’s kapp, a momento she took of this young sibling whose death affected her so greatly? Ruth is still single – has her former beau changed enough that she might reconsider their relationship? Could she re-enter the Amish life after living so free and independently? Questions, secrets, decisions, all these hound Tilly and Ruth during the week they spend with their Amish family.

Written in true Beverly Lewis style, the author has created another Amish scenario that will please Lewis fans as well as new Amish readers. Being a stand-alone book, The River will appeal to those who would prefer not to begin a new series or those that want to try out the pleasures of Amish fiction.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

Teens and adults

Christian Impact

Some of the lessons in The River are facing your fears, being honest in gentle confrontations and trusting the outcome to the Lord.

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