Readers used to the genre will be comforted, if unsurprised, by the novel’s familiarity. Patterson (author of Shattered Treasure) hits all the basic beats of Amish romance, including the acceptable but unwanted pursuer, the slow convincing of potential love, the light gossip among women, and social gatherings with delicious meals. Though positioned as adult fiction, the story reads young, both due to the age and social immaturity of the central protagonists, the straightforward prose and simple dialogue, and romantic connections that are limited to hand holding and a few kisses. Rachel and Paul’s growing attraction exudes a feel-good vibe that carries throughout, even overcoming their minor frustrations with one another, while their visits into each other’s Christian faith traditions shore up the religious message and keep it relevant to the plot.

Patterson uses key background points in both Rachel and Paul’s histories—the car accident that killed Rachel’s father, the friend of Paul’s who was thrown over by an Englisch girl—to reinforce their momentary uncertainty with each other, but Rachel’s willingness to give up college to become an Amish wife feels out of place for her character. Patterson ends with a plot twist resolving Paul’s dilemma and a final reconciliation that’s sweet, if not completely expected.

Takeaway: Enjoyable Amish-Englisch story of first love and new beginnings.

Comparable Titles: Beverly Lewis’s The Heirloom, Shelley Shepard Gray’s A Perfect Amish Romance.

Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A-