Hen and Rose are sisters living in Lancaster County's Amish community. Both have a burden to bear. Hen is caring for her injured husband who doesn't believe in her faith. To make matter worse he wants a divorce. Rose is looking for love and a lifetime commitment.
The Mercy
Rose Trilogy #3
Beverly Lewis
Bethany House
September 2011
Thing are not going too well for Hen. She married an Englisher, left the community to move to the city. Now she is back - her husband was involved in a horrific car accident that left him blind. He is not too pleased about moving to the Amish community and is really a hand full for Hen to contend with. One morning, out of the blue, he tells her he wants a divorce. She is devastated, but assures him she will continue to care for him until his sight returns.
Rose, on the other hand, is a typical Amish young woman. She lives with her parents and helps care for her mother who was injured in a horse and buggy accident. Rose has a new boyfriend, Isaac, who she sees on a regular basis. She begins to hope that he is the one she will spend her life with. Isaac has taken her to several places that the Church would not approve of, but she thinks maybe he is just feeling his way before taking his vows. She soon learns that he is becoming too much an Englisher and breaks off the relationship.
The Bishop's adopted son Nick left the community for the outside world. He is back, trying to make amends for not taking his wows - joining the church. The Bishop has been silenced for Nick's lack of commitment. Nick hopes to rectify this situation and become a member of the church.
Hen and Rose are yearning for new beginnings. Will things turn out as they hope? What part does Nick play in their lives?
The book has it all - romance, mystery and family drama. Ms. Lewis is "the reigning queen of Amish fiction."
Highly recommended.
