Mending Fences (The Deacon's Family Book #1)

Mending Fences is the first novel in The Deacon’s Family series. While it is the first book in a new series, it is based on characters and setting from The Inn at Eagle Hill, Stoney Ridge Seasons and The Bishop’s Family series. Personally, I found it helpful to have read The Inn at Eagle Hill series prior to picking up Mending Fences. I thought Mending Fences was well-written with good flow and steady pacing. It contains developed characters and a lovely setting (I especially liked Windmill Farm). I was drawn into the story right away and wanted to keep reading to see how Luke would fare with his “mending fences” list he received from Bishop Stoltzfus. Luke never realized that his pranks (as he called them) had a harmful outcome, but he soon learns that his actions had devastating consequences for some people. While Luke is outgoing and charming, Izzy is withdrawn and thoughtful. She is wary of Luke thanks to her upbringing in the foster care system and her time on the streets. Izzy came to Windmill Farm and reveled in the peace of the farm. Izzy enjoys the Plain lifestyle and wants to remain with the them. Luke and Izzy both have obstacles to overcome and growing up to do. With the help of Amos, Fern, David and God, they just might succeed (I do not want to spoil it for you). Suzanne Woods Fisher created wonderful characters. You cannot help but wanting to know more about them. Fern is a caring and compassionate woman who has faith that Luke will change. Amos is a hardworking farmer who wants to protect Izzy. It took them a long time to earn her trust and Amos does not want Luke messing up the progress Izzy has made. Amos is wary of Luke and not sure if he has the ability to change his ways. Bishop David Stoltzfus has endless patience and remains calm during trying times. There is humor in the story thanks to Bob, Amos’ buggy horse and a peanut butter loving racoon. It was interesting how certain events and people can touch so many lives. Two of my favorite phrases in the book is “love is not finite” and “God is love”. I thought Mending Fences was a thoughtful, heartwarming and inspirational story. I am eager to read the next installment in The Deacon’s Family series.

It has been too long since I’ve read an Amish novel if this is what they are like now. Fisher had me hooked from the very beginning. I was a little worried when I read the cast of characters, thinking I had to read all the other books to not be lost, but that wasn’t the case at all. After finishing this story I think it would be fun to read the others, but totally not necessary. Mending Fences was a great story about learning and growing from your mistakes. Luke hurt so many people, and while it might have seemed funny to him back then, now is a different story. Seeing how his decisions had lasting effects cuts him deep. I loved watching him become a better man, and try to make amends for his mistakes. Izzy didn’t know the old Luke, but knows enough about “his kind” to keep her distance. I enjoyed watching their heads butt and how their friendship slowly grew. I really enjoyed the variation in the characters in this Amish community, and look forward to visiting again. I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Suzanne is Queen for writing about the Old Order Amish. I have learned so much from reading her books. She has a way of evoking all of your emotions. I had a hard time putting this one down. Family's can be many things. It's not just your biological children or parents. Mending Fences shows us this through Amos and Fern Lapp. A beautiful Amish couple, you can't help but fall in love with. Fern was not able to have children but that did not stop her from helping Amos raise his son and daughters after losing his first wife. Fern is one with so much love to give. It doesn't matter who they are or where they came from, she always welcomes children of all ages into her home. This novel has so many life lessons entwined throughout this book. It's about family, forgiveness, faith and love. Luke Schrock and Izzy Miller are two of these grown children that Amos and Fern have opened up their home to. Both have just come from a three month stay in an Amish Rehab home. Luke's biggest lesson is, you can gain forgiveness from someone for the foolish thing you may have done in the past. But there may have been great hurts or consequences not so easily over looked. This is a book that kept me guessing until the end. Then left me wanting more. This is the first in Suzanne's new series The Deacon's Family. I can't wait to see what is coming next. I received a copy of this book through Interviews and Reviews through Net Galley. The opinions in this review are my own.