Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer Book Review

Beside Still Waters: A Big Sky Novel

Beside Still Waters: A Big Sky Novel by Tricia Goyer is a novel based on a true story.  Marianna Sommer is a young Amish woman who dreams about love and having her own family.  She is forever haunted by the tragedy that occurred on the day of her birth.  On that day, the two oldest daughters of the Sommer family were killed and Marianna was born soon after.  Her name was a combination of the lost daughters, Marilyn and Joanna.  But more than that, for her whole life, Marianna thought that she had to make up for the loss and never accepted the love she was offered by her parents.  She was the perfect Amish daughter who dutifully helped her family despite wanting to pursue her own dreams.  She followed her family when they moved from Indiana to Montana, leaving behind an Amish man who she hoped to be united with in marriage.  As she enters Montana, everything is different and she finds herself forming an uncomfortable, yet exciting friendship with a handsome English man.  Through her interactions with Ben, she learns more about a personal relationship with God and eventually gives all her fears, hopes and dreams to the Lord.

I am always interested in Amish stories and I like that this one was based on a true story.  The first third of the book was a little monotonous,, but once the family moved to Montana, the author seemed to strike a rich storytelling adventure.  I really enjoyed the friendly tension between Marianna and Ben.  The end of the book made me cry with Marianna's revelation from her family.  I guess you'll just have to read to find out.  I sincerely hope there is a sequel because many things were left unresolved.


*This book was provided to me free of charge by Litfuse Hens for purpose of this review. This is my honest opinion of this book and no monetary compensation was received for my opinion.*



Tricia Goyer is having her own giveaway:  See below.



About Beside Still Waters Giveaway:

To celebrate the release of the first book in the Big Sky Amish series Tricia is giving away 10 copies of Beside Still Waters and a pair of super cute antique Amish salt & pepper shakers. 




Details at Tricia’s blog, It’s Real Life: http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com/2011/04/beside-still-waters-giveaway.html

BONUS! Each person who enters the giveaway will receive a FABULOUS Montana Amish Calendar. Hurry, it’s only available while supplies last!