Historical Amish Fiction from Suzanne Woods Fisher ~ My Review

The Newcomer
(Amish Beginnings, Book 2)
by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Copyright 2017
Revell Publishers
ISBN; 9780800727499

The Story:
A fresh start in the New World will test Anna's resolve . . . and her heart

In 1737, Anna König staggers off a small wooden ship after ten weeks at sea, eager to start a new life in the vibrant but raw Pennsylvania frontier. It's a time of new beginnings, and for Anna and Bairn's shipboard romance to blossom.

But this perfect moment cannot last. As Bairn grasps the reality of what it means to be Amish in the New World, his enthusiasm evaporates. When a ship captain offers him a first mate position, he grabs it. Just one more crossing, he promises Anna. But will she wait for him?

As a newcomer joins the church, Anna is torn. This man is everything Bairn is not--bold, devoted, and delighted to vie for her heart. And he is here. Bairn is not.

Far from the frontier, an unexpected turn of events weaves the lives of Bairn, Anna, and the newcomer together. When the secret is revealed, which true love will emerge?


My Thoughts:
First off, this book must be read as part of the series. If you haven't read Anna's Crossing, or it has been a while since you've read the first book, you'll definitely want to refresh yourself! The Newcomer is a continuation of Anna and Bairn's story following their trip from Rotterdam in 1737. Now that that's out of the way--the story!

The Newcomer is certainly a unique take on Amish or Plain fiction. I'm so used to reading contemporary stories in the genre, that it's difficult to find a plot that I haven't read before. Thankfully, Fisher's ability to pen a unique story transcends time periods--contemporary, historical, she can write it! I have to say, however, The Newcomer was a bit predictable. The moment a character is introduced on the page as being "pretty" and "too comely" and little else is said, it raises an alarm in this reader. So, needless to say, I didn't see Henrik as a threat. I can't say anything else about him and his actions for fear of spoilers! That said Anna, her family, and Bairn's family are nothing short of how I imaged some of the first settlers in central Pennsylvania wilderness to have been--strong, stubborn, and steadfast in their faith.

Set on both land and sea, this story has a bit of adventure and a lot of soul searching involved in the plot. Fisher's romances usually unfold at an even pace, but this one was a little slow for me. However, The Newcomer is a peek at early Amish life in the colonies that you don't want to miss if you value history over romance in your novel reading.

~ My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars ~

*I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*

Happy Reading!