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Keepers of the Promise #2
The Rescued
As an Amish wife and mother struggles to hold her family together, a story from the past teaches her how to face her daily challenges with strength and love in the second Keepers of the Promise novel.
In modern day central Pennsylvania, Judith Wegler tries to heal the growing rift between her husband, Isaac, and his teenage brother Joseph—whom Judith and Isaac have raised as their own ever since both brothers lost their parents and siblings in a horrific fire. Meanwhile, Isaac’s hurtful silence about this tragic past has robbed Judith of any certainty of her husband’s love. But when Judith’s grandmother gifts her with an antique study table, she discovers a hidden packet of letters that changes her life...
In 1953, widow Mattie Lapp fights against the county’s attempts to force Amish children to attend a consolidated public school, even if it means arrest and imprisonment. Mattie knows she can’t face this challenge alone, and turns to her late husband’s cousin Adam for help, but she’s terrified at the prospect of relying on someone else. Now, as the two women’s stories converge, both must learn to stand up for their beliefs and to love again, even when it means risking their hearts...
In modern day central Pennsylvania, Judith Wegler tries to heal the growing rift between her husband, Isaac, and his teenage brother Joseph—whom Judith and Isaac have raised as their own ever since both brothers lost their parents and siblings in a horrific fire. Meanwhile, Isaac’s hurtful silence about this tragic past has robbed Judith of any certainty of her husband’s love. But when Judith’s grandmother gifts her with an antique study table, she discovers a hidden packet of letters that changes her life...
In 1953, widow Mattie Lapp fights against the county’s attempts to force Amish children to attend a consolidated public school, even if it means arrest and imprisonment. Mattie knows she can’t face this challenge alone, and turns to her late husband’s cousin Adam for help, but she’s terrified at the prospect of relying on someone else. Now, as the two women’s stories converge, both must learn to stand up for their beliefs and to love again, even when it means risking their hearts...
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
About the author
Marta Perry
185 books753 followersMarta Perry is a Pennsylvania-based author of over 35 novels, many of them inspirational romances. She uses her rural Pennsylvania life and her Pennsylvania Dutch heritage in writing her books, especially in her Pleasant Valley Amish series for Berkley Books and her new Amish-set suspense series for HQN Books.
Marta and her husband live in a centuries-old farmhouse in a quiet central Pennsylvania valley. They have three grown children and six beautiful grandchildren, and when she's not busy writing her next book, she's usually trying to keep up with her gardening, baking for church events, or visiting those beautiful grandkids.
Marta and her husband live in a centuries-old farmhouse in a quiet central Pennsylvania valley. They have three grown children and six beautiful grandchildren, and when she's not busy writing her next book, she's usually trying to keep up with her gardening, baking for church events, or visiting those beautiful grandkids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 19, 2015
A Contemporary Amish woman struggles with the distance in her marriage and the trouble between her husband and his brother while in the past another Amish woman must stand up for her beliefs and maybe take another chance on love.
This is thee second book of stories about three cousins who were told by their grandmother to choose a family heirloom and find that their piece of the past and their grandmother's wisdom has bearing on their present circumstance. The first book was heartwarming, emotion-laiden and a strong bit of writing entwining two Amish tales of romance and I found that this second book brings more of the same even while introducing new people with new circumstances. Again, it was a treat for the heart.
Judith Wegler, the oldest of the three cousins, is a married woman raising her husband's youngest sibling and her own three boys. She married the man she loved, has a lovely home, and all that she could have dreamed of as a young girl. Appearances can be deceiving. Judith goes through her life trying to stand buffer between her husband and his brother as they pull further and further apart and she tries to not let on that she suspects that she was married for practical reasons and that her husband is a withdrawn man who can't let go of his past pain.
The project of joining her cousins to sort through her grandmother's things netted her a round study table that she is cleaning up for her own brood to sit at and do their homework. Within one of the drawers, she discovers Mattie Lapps' letters and what it was like for an Amish woman in 1953. Mattie Lapp is a widow and must face the decision of sending her daughter to the huge Englischer High School or go to jail. Mattie must find her own strength and decide what she should do about the feelings between her and her late husband's cousin, Adam, who is her closest friend and always there for her.
The two stories were equally engaging for me and I enjoyed following along this gently-paced story set amongst the Amish community crossing two times. The details of their lives, the rich attention to dialogue and character development and the relationships of family, friends and romance were all so well-written. The characters are flawed, but they grow and I loved that this was narrated not just by the two women, but also the two men.
Judith and Isaac are the contemporary couple. Judith is a peacemaker and she hates conflict. She struggles with her role in what is happening between her husband and his coming of age younger brother who has his own dreams and they don't involve the family farm. Isaac was the oldest child and along with his younger brother survived a fire that took his parents and three sisters. He has suppressed his memories and emotions for so long and let survivor's guilt put him on the path to alienating his wife and driving his brother away.
Mattie and Adam were the couple from the past. They are both surviving members of their marriages and are friends who slowly realize that they are attracted. She thinks he is too young and wants her for all the wrong reasons and he has held back because he respected his cousin so much and still thinks of Mattie as Ben's wife. Then the trouble with the Board of Education starts and Adam stands quietly at Mattie's side as she makes her decision about who will control the education of her children.
All in all, this was a beautiful story that made me smile and cry as well as sigh. I would recommend it for those who enjoy Inspirational Romance or Sweet Contemporary Romance set in the Amish world.
My thanks to Penguin for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is thee second book of stories about three cousins who were told by their grandmother to choose a family heirloom and find that their piece of the past and their grandmother's wisdom has bearing on their present circumstance. The first book was heartwarming, emotion-laiden and a strong bit of writing entwining two Amish tales of romance and I found that this second book brings more of the same even while introducing new people with new circumstances. Again, it was a treat for the heart.
Judith Wegler, the oldest of the three cousins, is a married woman raising her husband's youngest sibling and her own three boys. She married the man she loved, has a lovely home, and all that she could have dreamed of as a young girl. Appearances can be deceiving. Judith goes through her life trying to stand buffer between her husband and his brother as they pull further and further apart and she tries to not let on that she suspects that she was married for practical reasons and that her husband is a withdrawn man who can't let go of his past pain.
The project of joining her cousins to sort through her grandmother's things netted her a round study table that she is cleaning up for her own brood to sit at and do their homework. Within one of the drawers, she discovers Mattie Lapps' letters and what it was like for an Amish woman in 1953. Mattie Lapp is a widow and must face the decision of sending her daughter to the huge Englischer High School or go to jail. Mattie must find her own strength and decide what she should do about the feelings between her and her late husband's cousin, Adam, who is her closest friend and always there for her.
The two stories were equally engaging for me and I enjoyed following along this gently-paced story set amongst the Amish community crossing two times. The details of their lives, the rich attention to dialogue and character development and the relationships of family, friends and romance were all so well-written. The characters are flawed, but they grow and I loved that this was narrated not just by the two women, but also the two men.
Judith and Isaac are the contemporary couple. Judith is a peacemaker and she hates conflict. She struggles with her role in what is happening between her husband and his coming of age younger brother who has his own dreams and they don't involve the family farm. Isaac was the oldest child and along with his younger brother survived a fire that took his parents and three sisters. He has suppressed his memories and emotions for so long and let survivor's guilt put him on the path to alienating his wife and driving his brother away.
Mattie and Adam were the couple from the past. They are both surviving members of their marriages and are friends who slowly realize that they are attracted. She thinks he is too young and wants her for all the wrong reasons and he has held back because he respected his cousin so much and still thinks of Mattie as Ben's wife. Then the trouble with the Board of Education starts and Adam stands quietly at Mattie's side as she makes her decision about who will control the education of her children.
All in all, this was a beautiful story that made me smile and cry as well as sigh. I would recommend it for those who enjoy Inspirational Romance or Sweet Contemporary Romance set in the Amish world.
My thanks to Penguin for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2016
This is the 2nd in Marta Perry's Keepers of the Promise series. Another interesting parallel story. Her Amish heroine Judith is trying to keep the peace between her husband (Isaac) and his younger brother(Joseph) whom they have raised together.
A deep sorrow has wounded Isaac which complicates his relationship with Joseph and catches Judith in the middle of two that she loves so much.
At the same time Judith is reading through an old family diary about an Amish widow caught in the crusade to do away with the old one-room schoolhouses where both Englischer and Amish children traditionally learned together. When the new high school is built, the Amish are put in the crosshairs of the battle between modern and traditional.
This was such a true to life story about a family's struggles to work through pain and conflict. And also a story of culture clash which we seem to be going through again.
I highly recommend this to any reader who loves a story about family and bravery.
A deep sorrow has wounded Isaac which complicates his relationship with Joseph and catches Judith in the middle of two that she loves so much.
At the same time Judith is reading through an old family diary about an Amish widow caught in the crusade to do away with the old one-room schoolhouses where both Englischer and Amish children traditionally learned together. When the new high school is built, the Amish are put in the crosshairs of the battle between modern and traditional.
This was such a true to life story about a family's struggles to work through pain and conflict. And also a story of culture clash which we seem to be going through again.
I highly recommend this to any reader who loves a story about family and bravery.
March 17, 2020
Marta Perry has put out two gripping stories in this time split novel. Both stories had me turning pages and grabbed my attention. The author went smoothly from our current time to the fall of 1953 . For me it was an awakening experience to learn about how the Amish coped with the change in the education system during the after war years. As students graduated from grade schools they no longer continued their high school in the four room school house. New schools were built for high school students. Attendance till students turned 15 was mandatory. This caused problems for Amish students who at that time attended school with the English. Amish students only attended school through the eight grade.
Judith Wegler was married to Isaac and they had three children. Judith also had raised Isaac's young brother from the time he was very young . She was like a mom to him. Joseph didn't remember his mother or father or his sister's . They all perished in a house fire and his older brother had rescued him from the raging fire.
Isaac had always grieved deeply for his late family members. He never talked much about the family . He suffered terribly with horrible night mares and dealt with guilt because he was unable to save the rest of his family.
As Joseph reached fourteen he left school . Isaac had trained him for years to one day take over the dairy farm but he had other ideas. Joseph was mechanically inclined and had no interest in the dairy farm. Isaac and Joseph fought hard over this and Judith was always dragged in the middle of their arguments and trying to keep the peace between the two. Would this broken family find healing and overcome their hurts and pains.
1953 Lancaster County
Mattie Lapp was a widow left to raise four children on her own. Her oldest, Rachel Lapp had attended the community school until completing the eight grade. Things were changing and now a new high school had been built and all students were expected to attend school whether Amish or English. Rachel wanted to honor her Amish beliefs and stay home learning housekeeping and cooking skills and helping her mother. The school board was demanding she attend this new school or her mother would be arrested and put in jail. Rachel must decide whether she will go against her Amish upbringing and beliefs and attend the high school or stay home and risk her mother being sent to prison. Would the school board really put a widow and mother of four children in prison? Would the school board respect the religious beliefs and practices of the Amish faith?
This heart wrenching and realistic story is for all readers of the Amish Fiction genre. All fans of Marta Perry and readers of Christian Fiction will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it .
I downloaded a Kindle ebook version of The Rescued from The Ohio Digital Library. A review was not requested. All opinions expressed here in this review are my own thoughts on this story.
Judith Wegler was married to Isaac and they had three children. Judith also had raised Isaac's young brother from the time he was very young . She was like a mom to him. Joseph didn't remember his mother or father or his sister's . They all perished in a house fire and his older brother had rescued him from the raging fire.
Isaac had always grieved deeply for his late family members. He never talked much about the family . He suffered terribly with horrible night mares and dealt with guilt because he was unable to save the rest of his family.
As Joseph reached fourteen he left school . Isaac had trained him for years to one day take over the dairy farm but he had other ideas. Joseph was mechanically inclined and had no interest in the dairy farm. Isaac and Joseph fought hard over this and Judith was always dragged in the middle of their arguments and trying to keep the peace between the two. Would this broken family find healing and overcome their hurts and pains.
1953 Lancaster County
Mattie Lapp was a widow left to raise four children on her own. Her oldest, Rachel Lapp had attended the community school until completing the eight grade. Things were changing and now a new high school had been built and all students were expected to attend school whether Amish or English. Rachel wanted to honor her Amish beliefs and stay home learning housekeeping and cooking skills and helping her mother. The school board was demanding she attend this new school or her mother would be arrested and put in jail. Rachel must decide whether she will go against her Amish upbringing and beliefs and attend the high school or stay home and risk her mother being sent to prison. Would the school board really put a widow and mother of four children in prison? Would the school board respect the religious beliefs and practices of the Amish faith?
This heart wrenching and realistic story is for all readers of the Amish Fiction genre. All fans of Marta Perry and readers of Christian Fiction will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it .
I downloaded a Kindle ebook version of The Rescued from The Ohio Digital Library. A review was not requested. All opinions expressed here in this review are my own thoughts on this story.
October 30, 2015
This is the second book in this series I have read and i am still impressed how seamlessly the story goes from one era to another and how it points out the problems that the Amish have to work with when they are trying not to follower decisions made by the Government for their children. Decisions which is against their religious beliefs of family responsibility for their children based on their religious beliefs.
In current time Judith is faced with the struggle between her husband and his brother, (their family were killed in a house fire leaving Isaac and Joseph to struggle with the lost of their family). How far can Judith go to protect the dreams of Joseph without it being looked at as not supporting her husband. The couple has problems which are not talked about mainly Judith thinking that Isaac marrying her just because he need a wife to help with baby Joseph and Isaac disappointment with Joseph not valuing his inheritances.
As Judith read the letters left behind in an old desk finds that Mattie who is experiencing problems with the Government wanting to demand that the Amish children be forced to attending English schools. She is strengthen by the stance took by Mattie to the events happening in her era.
In current time Judith is faced with the struggle between her husband and his brother, (their family were killed in a house fire leaving Isaac and Joseph to struggle with the lost of their family). How far can Judith go to protect the dreams of Joseph without it being looked at as not supporting her husband. The couple has problems which are not talked about mainly Judith thinking that Isaac marrying her just because he need a wife to help with baby Joseph and Isaac disappointment with Joseph not valuing his inheritances.
As Judith read the letters left behind in an old desk finds that Mattie who is experiencing problems with the Government wanting to demand that the Amish children be forced to attending English schools. She is strengthen by the stance took by Mattie to the events happening in her era.
June 29, 2015
Every time I pick up a book by Marta Perry I wonder why I waited so long to read another of her books. They are definitely page turners. If you like suspense, puzzles, heart warming and a deepening of a character's faith then Marta Perry is the author for you. Her books will always touch you.
Judith Wegler does her best to heal the problems between her husband, Issac and his brother, Joseph. When her grandmother gives her an antique writing desk she discovers a hidden drawer with a stack of letters in it.
In 1953 Mattie Lapp worked to keep the Amish children from having to go to public schools. You will see how her struggles will help Judith with her faith and working to mend the rift between her husband and the youth that she has raised as her own son.
You are actually reading two stories in one. The struggles of both women will touch you. See how Mattie's life will encourage Judith and her life unfolds.
I received this book as an ARC from Marta Perry and read it in one sitting. She brings you into the story and you feel like you are in the character's place. I definitely give this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone that wants a terrific read.
Judith Wegler does her best to heal the problems between her husband, Issac and his brother, Joseph. When her grandmother gives her an antique writing desk she discovers a hidden drawer with a stack of letters in it.
In 1953 Mattie Lapp worked to keep the Amish children from having to go to public schools. You will see how her struggles will help Judith with her faith and working to mend the rift between her husband and the youth that she has raised as her own son.
You are actually reading two stories in one. The struggles of both women will touch you. See how Mattie's life will encourage Judith and her life unfolds.
I received this book as an ARC from Marta Perry and read it in one sitting. She brings you into the story and you feel like you are in the character's place. I definitely give this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone that wants a terrific read.
June 12, 2015
A heart warming story of family conflict.
August 28, 2018
Just love this series!!
September 18, 2019
Excellent
Another great book about, family, love, patience, and grief. It always delves into the much needed open communication between spouses.
Another great book about, family, love, patience, and grief. It always delves into the much needed open communication between spouses.
August 29, 2018
Another good read. I enjoyed the 2nd Keepers of the Promise series. The characters are enjoyable and interesting. I enjoyed the lessons that they learned. I am looking forward to the next book.
February 26, 2021
An interesting look at the challenges of two different time periods.
June 24, 2022
Great book.
January 19, 2023
Good plot, but very drawn-out. Could've wrapped up a lot faster.
February 13, 2023
Great insight into the Amish way of life. A little review of the special schooling.
July 30, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Scott
In modern day central Pennsylvania, Judith Wegler tries to heal the growing rift between her husband, Isaac, and his teenage brother Joseph—whom Judith and Isaac have raised as their own. Isaac’s hurtful silence about this tragic past has robbed Judith of any certainty of her husband’s love. When Judith’s grandmother gifts her with an antique study table, she discovers a hidden packet of letters that changes her life forever.
In the letters, dated 1953, the widow Mattie Lapp fights against the county’s attempts to force Amish children to attend a consolidated public school, even if it means arrest and imprisonment. Mattie knows she can’t face this challenge alone, and turns to her late husband’s cousin Adam for help, but she’s terrified at the prospect of relying on someone else.
Now, as the two women’s stories converge, both must learn to stand up for their beliefs and to love again, even when it means risking their hearts
This story follows the stories of two Amish Families the Weglers and the Lapps. The Weglers live in modern day Pennsylvania and is the story of Judith, Issac, his brother Joseph, and Judith’s 3 children. Judith’s husband Isaac was victim of a horrible house fire that killed his parents and siblings. He only was able to save baby Joseph whom he has raised with Judith’s help. Never talking about the night of the fire is driving a wedge between the couple and with Joseph turning 16 is putting Judith in between the two brothers.
On the Lapps side, though, Mattie, is a widow in the early 50”s and the government has decreed the Amish send their children to a consolidated public school; the consequences of which mean fines and imprisonment. Mattie knows what she must do but has to do so by herself. In the background is Adam her late husband’s cousin who has been a rock during these troubling times. He has expressed his feelings for her but she is scared when she knows she has to turn to him for help.
Back in the modern era, Isaac wants Joseph to take over the farm and Joseph wants to fix engines. Judith wonders if Isaac only picked her for a wife because she would make a good mother. As the tension builds Judith is given a desk from her grandmother for the house and in the desk she finds letters. As she reads these letters she bonds more and more with Mattie.
The weaving of the two plots was skillfully done, and the writing was vibrant and tasteful. The characters were three-dimensional with a lot of depth put into them. For lovers of Marta Perry, Amish fiction, or a fascinating cultural insight into the Amish lifestyle then this is right up your alley. It is a short read and closes on a happy note. Who could ask for a better story?
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Scott
In modern day central Pennsylvania, Judith Wegler tries to heal the growing rift between her husband, Isaac, and his teenage brother Joseph—whom Judith and Isaac have raised as their own. Isaac’s hurtful silence about this tragic past has robbed Judith of any certainty of her husband’s love. When Judith’s grandmother gifts her with an antique study table, she discovers a hidden packet of letters that changes her life forever.
In the letters, dated 1953, the widow Mattie Lapp fights against the county’s attempts to force Amish children to attend a consolidated public school, even if it means arrest and imprisonment. Mattie knows she can’t face this challenge alone, and turns to her late husband’s cousin Adam for help, but she’s terrified at the prospect of relying on someone else.
Now, as the two women’s stories converge, both must learn to stand up for their beliefs and to love again, even when it means risking their hearts
This story follows the stories of two Amish Families the Weglers and the Lapps. The Weglers live in modern day Pennsylvania and is the story of Judith, Issac, his brother Joseph, and Judith’s 3 children. Judith’s husband Isaac was victim of a horrible house fire that killed his parents and siblings. He only was able to save baby Joseph whom he has raised with Judith’s help. Never talking about the night of the fire is driving a wedge between the couple and with Joseph turning 16 is putting Judith in between the two brothers.
On the Lapps side, though, Mattie, is a widow in the early 50”s and the government has decreed the Amish send their children to a consolidated public school; the consequences of which mean fines and imprisonment. Mattie knows what she must do but has to do so by herself. In the background is Adam her late husband’s cousin who has been a rock during these troubling times. He has expressed his feelings for her but she is scared when she knows she has to turn to him for help.
Back in the modern era, Isaac wants Joseph to take over the farm and Joseph wants to fix engines. Judith wonders if Isaac only picked her for a wife because she would make a good mother. As the tension builds Judith is given a desk from her grandmother for the house and in the desk she finds letters. As she reads these letters she bonds more and more with Mattie.
The weaving of the two plots was skillfully done, and the writing was vibrant and tasteful. The characters were three-dimensional with a lot of depth put into them. For lovers of Marta Perry, Amish fiction, or a fascinating cultural insight into the Amish lifestyle then this is right up your alley. It is a short read and closes on a happy note. Who could ask for a better story?
October 22, 2015
The second book in Marta Perry’s “Keepers of the Promise” series brought home two truths. First, if you love someone, tell them. Don’t make them guess. And second, if you believe strongly that your cause is right stand firm.
Modern day Judith Wegler always believed that she was her husband Isaac’s second choice. Isaac’s parents and sisters died in a fire that he escaped, rescuing his baby brother, Joseph in the process. Soon after, he asked Judith to marry him. Prior to their wedding she overheard someone praising Isaac for giving up on running around and making the “practical” choice to marry her. Crushed, Judith poured her love into Joseph, raising him as her own. She grew to love Isaac as well but never fully believed that he loved her in return.
Judith has a full-time job caring for her sons and trying to keep the peace between Isaac and Joseph. When she and her cousins help their grandmother clear out her attic, each woman is given an item that Grossmammi feels will have special significance to them. Judith receives an antique study table. When she cleans it up to get it ready for her own scholars to use, she discovers a secret drawer filled with old circle letters. The letters tell the story of Mattie Lapp.
Following World War II, the county sent an edict that all Amish children must attend the new consolidated school at least through 9th grade. The Amish had always considered 8th grade to be enough schooling. After that children were expected to learn more practical things. Boys learned a trade or how to work the family farm and girls learned to cook and sew and how to care for their future families. While many Amish homes in her district were affected, Mattie’s was the only home with a woman at the head. One by one the fathers in her district are jailed. When Mattie’s turn comes will she have the strength to stand for what she believes?
As the two stories unfold, both women must learn to take a stand, both find strength they didn’t know they had and both must learn to accept love.
I loved the historical story every bit as much as the modern day story. I would recommend this to fans of Amish fiction. Like its predecessor, The Forgiven, it’s like getting two books in one. Both stories are compelling and will keep readers turning the pages.
Modern day Judith Wegler always believed that she was her husband Isaac’s second choice. Isaac’s parents and sisters died in a fire that he escaped, rescuing his baby brother, Joseph in the process. Soon after, he asked Judith to marry him. Prior to their wedding she overheard someone praising Isaac for giving up on running around and making the “practical” choice to marry her. Crushed, Judith poured her love into Joseph, raising him as her own. She grew to love Isaac as well but never fully believed that he loved her in return.
Judith has a full-time job caring for her sons and trying to keep the peace between Isaac and Joseph. When she and her cousins help their grandmother clear out her attic, each woman is given an item that Grossmammi feels will have special significance to them. Judith receives an antique study table. When she cleans it up to get it ready for her own scholars to use, she discovers a secret drawer filled with old circle letters. The letters tell the story of Mattie Lapp.
Following World War II, the county sent an edict that all Amish children must attend the new consolidated school at least through 9th grade. The Amish had always considered 8th grade to be enough schooling. After that children were expected to learn more practical things. Boys learned a trade or how to work the family farm and girls learned to cook and sew and how to care for their future families. While many Amish homes in her district were affected, Mattie’s was the only home with a woman at the head. One by one the fathers in her district are jailed. When Mattie’s turn comes will she have the strength to stand for what she believes?
As the two stories unfold, both women must learn to take a stand, both find strength they didn’t know they had and both must learn to accept love.
I loved the historical story every bit as much as the modern day story. I would recommend this to fans of Amish fiction. Like its predecessor, The Forgiven, it’s like getting two books in one. Both stories are compelling and will keep readers turning the pages.
October 13, 2015
The Rescued: Keepers of the Promise, Book Two (Keepers of the Promise #2)by Marta Perry
In modern day central Pennsylvania, Judith Wegler tries to heal the growing rift between her husband, Isaac, and his teenage brother Joseph—whom Judith and Isaac have raised as their own ever since both brothers lost their parents and siblings in a horrific fire. Meanwhile, Isaac’s hurtful silence about this tragic past has robbed Judith of any certainty of her husband’s love.
But when Judith’s grandmother gifts her with an antique study table, she discovers a hidden packet of letters that changes her life.
In 1953, widow Mattie Lapp fights against the county’s attempts to force Amish children to attend a consolidated public school, even if it means arrest and imprisonment. Mattie knows she can’t face this challenge alone, and turns to her late husband’s cousin Adam for help, but she’s terrified at the prospect of relying on someone else.
My Review:
I don't have a solid reference in Amish culture but it comes across as very staunch and very judgmental toward anything except themselves. The author has solid writing skills and has created a decent story but I had a difficult time feeling a kinship toward the characters but I wanted to shake them and open their minds. God or whatever greater power there is would not want them to be so closed off from the world. I found it difficult to enjoy the story because I just felt sad through the whole thing. This closed off world these men and women are locked in are so sad. I have nothing against their way of life remaining pure and innocent away from the frightening realities in the world even in the past but there is also so much beauty they miss out on. On the other hand I can understand the Amish wanting to keep and maintain their pure communities not wanting them to mix, but in a strange way again I felt sorry for them because its like all the segregation issues that have come up in history and in various cultures in the world. The Rescued is political, its religious, its ethical, and heavily emotional.
My Rating:
2 Stars
Reviewed By:
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews
http://kkmalott.booklikes.com/
Note: I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley.
In modern day central Pennsylvania, Judith Wegler tries to heal the growing rift between her husband, Isaac, and his teenage brother Joseph—whom Judith and Isaac have raised as their own ever since both brothers lost their parents and siblings in a horrific fire. Meanwhile, Isaac’s hurtful silence about this tragic past has robbed Judith of any certainty of her husband’s love.
But when Judith’s grandmother gifts her with an antique study table, she discovers a hidden packet of letters that changes her life.
In 1953, widow Mattie Lapp fights against the county’s attempts to force Amish children to attend a consolidated public school, even if it means arrest and imprisonment. Mattie knows she can’t face this challenge alone, and turns to her late husband’s cousin Adam for help, but she’s terrified at the prospect of relying on someone else.
My Review:
I don't have a solid reference in Amish culture but it comes across as very staunch and very judgmental toward anything except themselves. The author has solid writing skills and has created a decent story but I had a difficult time feeling a kinship toward the characters but I wanted to shake them and open their minds. God or whatever greater power there is would not want them to be so closed off from the world. I found it difficult to enjoy the story because I just felt sad through the whole thing. This closed off world these men and women are locked in are so sad. I have nothing against their way of life remaining pure and innocent away from the frightening realities in the world even in the past but there is also so much beauty they miss out on. On the other hand I can understand the Amish wanting to keep and maintain their pure communities not wanting them to mix, but in a strange way again I felt sorry for them because its like all the segregation issues that have come up in history and in various cultures in the world. The Rescued is political, its religious, its ethical, and heavily emotional.
My Rating:
2 Stars
Reviewed By:
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews
http://kkmalott.booklikes.com/
Note: I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley.
June 5, 2015
The Rescued by Marta Perry is the second book in the Keepers of Promise series. Judith Wagler is married to Isaac. They have three children of their own and also raise Isaac’s little brother, Joseph. Isaac and Joseph’s parents died in a house fire before Joseph was a year old. Judith and Isaac married when Joseph was five years old. Joseph has finished school so Isaac is working to teach him the running of the dairy farm. Their farm had plans for Joseph to take over the farm when he grew up and Isaac plans to honor those plans. Joseph, though, likes working with machines. Judith tries to act as a buffer between the two, but the stress is getting to her.
Judith received a study desk from her grandmother, Elizabeth Lapp. Her grandmother has stories and history attached to each item. When Judith unlocks a drawer on the desk, she uncovers round robin letters written back in 1953. The letters outline what happens to Mattie Lapp, a widow with children. In the 1950’s school laws changed in many states requiring children to get a higher education (high school) and stay in school until at least age 15. The Amish only schooled their children through eighth grade (age fourteen). If Mattie does not send her daughter to school, she will be breaking the law. Mattie’s gets help from her family and Adam Lapp, a widower. Adam is a cousin of Mattie’s deceased husband, Benjamin. He has been so helpful to her since Benjamin’s death.
Reading the letters help Judith with the situation between her husband and Joseph. I give The Rescued 4 out of 5 stars. It was a good book, but not as good as the first book in the series. It was interesting to find why the Amish would not send their children to high school and how it was handled by school districts. It is heartwarming how the Amish help each other out and are there for each other (at least in this series of books). I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of The Rescued from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own.
Judith received a study desk from her grandmother, Elizabeth Lapp. Her grandmother has stories and history attached to each item. When Judith unlocks a drawer on the desk, she uncovers round robin letters written back in 1953. The letters outline what happens to Mattie Lapp, a widow with children. In the 1950’s school laws changed in many states requiring children to get a higher education (high school) and stay in school until at least age 15. The Amish only schooled their children through eighth grade (age fourteen). If Mattie does not send her daughter to school, she will be breaking the law. Mattie’s gets help from her family and Adam Lapp, a widower. Adam is a cousin of Mattie’s deceased husband, Benjamin. He has been so helpful to her since Benjamin’s death.
Reading the letters help Judith with the situation between her husband and Joseph. I give The Rescued 4 out of 5 stars. It was a good book, but not as good as the first book in the series. It was interesting to find why the Amish would not send their children to high school and how it was handled by school districts. It is heartwarming how the Amish help each other out and are there for each other (at least in this series of books). I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of The Rescued from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own.
July 28, 2015
This is the second book in the Keepers of the Promise series, and yes I loved the first book, but you can read this one by itself. We span decades while read this story, Amish in present day Lancaster Pennsylvania and the same place in 1953.
Life as usual does not run smoothly, but change is in the air in both time frames, and problems abound. The 1950’s were a time before Amish had their own schools, and are being threated when they have their children leave school after the eighth grade. We have people being put in jail for their beliefs; you get the feeling that it becomes a war of wills. Both stories deal with family life, and after tragedy moving on with their lives.
We see people holding on to forgiving themselves; we find melding of the past lives with the present in the form of letters found in a much loved and used table.
We find our present day family trying to find peace between two brothers and the rest of the family, mostly the wife/mother of the older one. Struggles to bend the will of the other and find peace in decisions made on the spur of the moment.
I loved the comparisons of the lives, so different and yet so similar, I got lost in this book, and when it ended I wanted to keep on reading.
I received this book from the Author and was not required to give a positive review.
Life as usual does not run smoothly, but change is in the air in both time frames, and problems abound. The 1950’s were a time before Amish had their own schools, and are being threated when they have their children leave school after the eighth grade. We have people being put in jail for their beliefs; you get the feeling that it becomes a war of wills. Both stories deal with family life, and after tragedy moving on with their lives.
We see people holding on to forgiving themselves; we find melding of the past lives with the present in the form of letters found in a much loved and used table.
We find our present day family trying to find peace between two brothers and the rest of the family, mostly the wife/mother of the older one. Struggles to bend the will of the other and find peace in decisions made on the spur of the moment.
I loved the comparisons of the lives, so different and yet so similar, I got lost in this book, and when it ended I wanted to keep on reading.
I received this book from the Author and was not required to give a positive review.
June 25, 2015
I won this book through Goodreads First Reads. I give it a solid 4*. There were two stories in one book.
It was a joy to read about Judith and her family. They definitely had their ups and downs. It was interesting when she found the letters in her grandmother's study desk. I liked how the letters helped her in her own situation. It was also neat to find out why the Amish didn't send their children to high school. I liked how it intertwined how both Judith and Mattie had both their Amish beliefs and their faith tested. Good read.
~Dev~
It was a joy to read about Judith and her family. They definitely had their ups and downs. It was interesting when she found the letters in her grandmother's study desk. I liked how the letters helped her in her own situation. It was also neat to find out why the Amish didn't send their children to high school. I liked how it intertwined how both Judith and Mattie had both their Amish beliefs and their faith tested. Good read.
~Dev~
September 28, 2016
The second book in the series. Please read the first book, THE FORGIVEN, before starting this one.
Marta Perry is a wonderful storyteller, with great knowledge of the Amish. I prefer novels with inspiration, rather than historical stories, but she manages to weave two stories together again in another book that was very difficult to put down. Not only because I was wanting to know more about the main characters, but the "second story characters" as well ~ !
Very endearing characters that captured my heart... you will experience all kinds of feelings in this book.
Marta Perry is a wonderful storyteller, with great knowledge of the Amish. I prefer novels with inspiration, rather than historical stories, but she manages to weave two stories together again in another book that was very difficult to put down. Not only because I was wanting to know more about the main characters, but the "second story characters" as well ~ !
Very endearing characters that captured my heart... you will experience all kinds of feelings in this book.
June 12, 2015
Two stories in one. One about Amish fighting to teach their children and not send them to English school. set in 1953. Other one inherited desk from that time with letters of struggle. It is about Judith strugglibg to be peacemaker and keep her family together. Amish were arrested and spdet jail time for refusing to forfeit their beliefs and send kids to the school. But when young worked oidow arrd to get charges dropped. School Board and Bishop
January 23, 2016
Judith has her furniture piece from her grandmother. She finds letters from a relative in a locked drawer. Mattie fights for her family as a widow, while Judith fights to help her husband and his brother that she is helping to raise. What does each woman learn? They have to move forward with their lives but sometimes that isn't as easy as it sounds.
This story is wonderfully woven together that the changes between the past and present are clear but do not break up the flow of the story.
This story is wonderfully woven together that the changes between the past and present are clear but do not break up the flow of the story.
December 10, 2015
Fantastic second in the series of Keepers of the Promise by Marta Perry. This book brings to light about let grief be acknowledged and listen to others who love you. The letters that Judith finds in the table of Mattie Lapp brings to light the trouble the Amish dealt with in the 50's with the schools district and the rules being forced on them. Faith let Mattie and Judith come to understand that sometimes you have to let go and let things play out.
January 30, 2016
I really liked how the author used Mattie's story from 1953 to help Judith learn to have courage to stand up for what was right. I did ache for Judith being 'between a rock and a hard place' when it came to her relationships with Isaac and Joseph and their own difficult relationship with each other. I look forward to seeing what spunky Barbie will learn and do in her own story!
May 16, 2015
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
August 1, 2015
I was expecting a murder mystery and this wasn't one. Isaac was rescued from his nightmares. Had side by side stories.
August 7, 2015
Great Story
November 23, 2015
Really hard to get into the stories.
It was okay, but not an easy read.
It was okay, but not an easy read.
January 20, 2016
I really enjoy Marta Perry! I loved the characters in this book, and look forward to reading the next one in this series.
April 26, 2016
Judith & Isaac's story
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