The Fiddler

Beverly Lewis' latest Amish novel, The Fiddler introduces us to a new series, Home to Hickory Hollow where she imaginary setting she created for the Shunning was born. Here we meet at an unusual crossroads between the English world and the Amish one.

Amelia Devries has been living a dual life. One for her father as an accomplished concerto violinist, and that of Amy Lee, a country fiddler. What is a catalyst for Amelia is how to bridge the communication gap between her father's dreams for her and her love of making music without the pressure or stress of being at the top of her game all the time. Not only that she is struggling with finding the love that she had for her boyfriend Bryon, also a musician. Perhaps God will provide the answer she seeks.

When a sudden thunderstorm leaves her lost on a back country road, she finds herself with a flat tire and no phone service for her cell phone. Once the rain lets up a bit, she finds her way to a mountain cabin where an Amish young man, Michael Hostetler offers her shelter from the storm.

Michael has been struggling with the same issues as Amelia, having to live a life that would please his parents who hope that by now, he'd be baptized in the Old Amish Order and find himself a nice Amish young girl to begin a family with. Yet Michael finds a yearning for school and learning, taking on line courses in college. His struggle while running away from his old life is to find a place where he believes God is calling him, and what he doesn't expect is to find it in the music Amelia plays for him.

I received The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and was so captivated by the peace and tranquility of not only Amelia's music but also for the people in Hickory Hollow. My favorite character is Ella Mae, considered by the Amish to be the Wise Woman, with an answer to what troubles you most. Her advice to Amelia when she believes she has lost the gumption to confront her father?

"The gumption, my dear, comes when you believe in your decision so much you simply have to follow your heart, come what may. If ya believe God's nudging you in a certain direction, you best follow that, no ifs, ands, or buts."

How I wish there was such a mentor in my own personal life and found myself sitting on the porch swing with Ella Mae while I was reading this. How could I not stay and sit awhile just talking to her about life? This is what makes this such a wonderful and compelling novel for anyone to read. The characters even though they are fictional, feel alive as if they have a home next door to you, just waiting for you to stop on over for a visit, and that's just what you'll get when you open the book. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and will be sure to follow this series all the way through to the end.

For more information on this book, the incredibly talented author, and where to pick up this book today, please click on the links below:

The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis

You can also find Beverly Lewis on Facebook by clicking here.