Still waters

Reviewed by:

Ceil Carey, retired public librarian and longtime book discussion leader

Title:

Still waters (The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill Book #2)

Author:

Patricia Johns

Publisher:

Bethany House

https://bakerbookhouse.bethanyhouse

Date:

2025

Format:

Paperback

Length:

345 pages

Overview:

This book is different than many in the genre of Amish fiction as there are deep discussions as to whether characters should continue living the Amish life or leave that way of life to live as an “Englischer”, particularly our main character, Beth Peachy.

Beth is spending the summer with her grandmother, to help her pack up her house in anticipation of a move. Mammi is suffering from some dementia, she has good days and bad days. Beth’s father, Moses, has recently passed away and Beth is very curious about his young life, something that has never been talked about. At first Mammi is not willing to give Beth any information but she and the neighbor Danny Lapp, do a little research at the local library and find out just enough to tackle those difficult questions with her grandmother.

Beth is unsure about the Amish life. While she loves much of it, she longs for more education and opportunities. While Danny is “for sure and for certain” about the life he lives and the way he intends to continue living. This young couple are very attracted to one another but can their relationship work when one is so unsure of the Amish life?

Many Amish issues are part of Still Waters, dealing with life in the Amish community, romance and past history.  A very interesting and compelling story.

Rating:

5 out of 5

Suggested audience:

Particularly fans of Amish fiction

Christian impact:

The many discussions in this book about staying Amish or “jumping the fence” are ones that all Christians might consider as far as what do they want to do with their life, how do they want to live it, what does God expect of us?

Also includes:

-discussion questions

-author’s note

-sneak peek at the next book in this series

http://Amazon.com

https://www.christianbook.com/