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The Amish, a group of people whose separation from modern society with its conveniences and troubles, are fascinating to many. Perhaps it is the hectic pace in which we lead our lives that makes the old-fashioned, slower pace so appealing to explore.

It is so appealing in fact, that there are several authors, who are writing fictional stories involving Amish characters. Cindy Woodsmall, the New York Times Best-Selling Author of When the Soul Mends was recently interviewed on ABC Nightline. Her romance novels are all set among the Amish.

I received a copy of Cindy Woodsmall’s latest novel, The Hope of Refuge from Random House to review. In the book, Cara Moore, a single mom from New York, is being pursued by a stalker. A secret clue hidden by her long dead mother in Cara’s diary leads Cara and her daughter to an Amish community in Pennsylvania. There she is met with suspicion by everyone until she is befriended by Ephraim Mast. But Ephraim is faced with a tough decision when the church disapproves of his aiding Cara.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Hope of Refuge. The storyline was entertaining with realistic characters. I empathized with their hurt, anger, and confusion, as well as rejoiced in their happiness. Though somewhat predictable in places, there were several unexpected plot twists that kept me wondering how the book would end. I definitely recommend reading it.

The good news is I also have an extra copy to GIVE AWAY! If you would like a free copy of The Hope of Refuge, please leave a comment on this review. (U.S. residents only please.) Be sure to include an e-mail or blog address where I can contact you. Entries will be received through August 11, with a winner being randomly selected on the 12th.

Edited post 8/6/09:

This giveaway is now featured on the MckLinky Giveaway Blog Hop. Hop around to find other great contests and giveaways.
MckLinky Blog Hop

 


By Kristen H.
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19 thoughts on “The Hope of Refuge by Cindy Woodsmall”

  1. I have no connection to home schooling so will pass on signing up, but this sounds like a wonderful novel and one I would enjoy.

    If you get a chance, stop by my blog and enter to win a $15 Gift Certificate to my Etsy shop – something for almost everyone, from angel dishcloths to my Busy Person's Prayer Book and more – deadline 8/12.

    http://prayersncrafts.blogspot.com

  2. Oh please enter me! I tease my husband that I would love to go to a simpler Amish lifestyle and enjoy reading books set in Amish places.

    Tristan from the Crew

    tdrowlee AT yahoo DOT com

  3. Enter me! I would love to read this book. I have been reading so many homeschooling things lately, it would be great to have a fun read. We live close enough to have some interaction with the local Amish community, but no friends, yet 🙂

    Hillary in Indiana

    from TOS Crew

  4. I would love to be entered for this. This sounds like a neat book. I'd love to live a simpler way of life. We are building off grid, so maybe some day!

    ~Michelle from the Crew

    http:www.delightfullearning.blogspot.com

  5. Oh, this looks fabulous! I would love to read it!

    Thanks for the chance to win!

    Brenda from the Crew

    blemmet AT gmail DOT com

  6. Sounds like a good book! I have enjoyed Beverly Lewis's books about the Amish and would like to try out a new author.

    debmlott at gmail dot com

  7. I would love to have a chance to win this book! I keep meaning to take the time too look at all of the give-aways being offered, but I've just been too busy! Thanks for offering this book.

    Wendy (fellow Crew member)

  8. I would love to win the book. Thanks for letting me try.

    kluseklan at hawaii dot rr dot com replacing at and dot with @ and . of course.)

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