Status
Available
Call number
Series
Publication
Revell (2016), 332 pages
Description
Fiction. Literature. Romance. Ruthie Stoltzfus longs to leave the Amish. Newcomer Patrick Kelly longs to join them. Are they both running from the life God wants them to live? Or will they find it together?
User reviews
LibraryThing member Harley0326
When I know that there is a series coming out, I buy each book and start reading them in order when the last book in the series is completed. That is not the case with this series. As each one was published, I grabbed it up and started reading. Why did I not wait, you may ask? Well the simple
The story is written with grace and I loved how the author placed stories from the bible that helped us understand what the characters were struggling with. I loved Ruthie because she was so intriguing. She is always available to help anyone and has such a desire to learn new things. She hasn't found the right person to share her life with, but that may change very soon. What happens at the Inn at Eagle Hill where she Workd that will have people gossiping?
Patrick Kelly is a young man who has come to the community to learn how to be Amish. Yes that does seem strange to some, but his enthusiasm and dedication proves to people that he is sincere . His character is very likeable and will face challenges that for some, would make them lose hope. As he studies the culture he does start to have questions for Bishop David Stoltzfus. He knows that Sunday is a day of rest, so why are stores open and people selling their goods on a Sunday? I really liked his hunger for learning the Amish customs and how much he wanted to fit in.
Bishop David starts to really take a look at his congregation and see that maybe some have forgotten some of the Amish ways . What happens when several families find wealth ? Will they allow that wealth to overshadow their Amish beliefs? Have you ever found yourself comprising your beliefs ? I loved how the author showed the conflicts the community faced with their new found prosperity and how the Bishop realized that he needed to take a firmer stand. Did he get so caught up in becoming a newlywed that he forgot about his duties as a Bishop?
I can't forget to mention Luke Schrock. He sure does have a big chip on his shoulders. He is jealous of the budding friendship between Ruthie and Patrick. His anger comes out in hurtful ways and I loved how the author showed his life spinning out of control. His actions cause a lot of pain and anger for Ruthie. Will she be able to forgive him? Will he get help before it is to late? I loved his character the most because it showed how jealousy can cause destruction in someone's life. I remember the scripture that says, "Pride cometh before a fall," and the author does an amazing job of showing how pride and jealousy can change a person. It was very powerful to read and it brought tears to my eyes to see the pain Luke was in. Will Luke be able to find his way back to God? Can he swallow his pride and ask for forgiveness ?
The characters in the book draw on their faith and along the way find forgiveness, hope and unconditional love. The book delivers an unforgettable story that reminds us to never give up, follow your dreams and surround yourself with family and God.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
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answer is because the author writes such memorable stories that I knew I would never forget the previous book in the series. Her characters are so well crafted and relatable that I feel like they become part of my family. This is the third installment of The Bishops Family series and oh my is it a powerful read. The story is written with grace and I loved how the author placed stories from the bible that helped us understand what the characters were struggling with. I loved Ruthie because she was so intriguing. She is always available to help anyone and has such a desire to learn new things. She hasn't found the right person to share her life with, but that may change very soon. What happens at the Inn at Eagle Hill where she Workd that will have people gossiping?
Patrick Kelly is a young man who has come to the community to learn how to be Amish. Yes that does seem strange to some, but his enthusiasm and dedication proves to people that he is sincere . His character is very likeable and will face challenges that for some, would make them lose hope. As he studies the culture he does start to have questions for Bishop David Stoltzfus. He knows that Sunday is a day of rest, so why are stores open and people selling their goods on a Sunday? I really liked his hunger for learning the Amish customs and how much he wanted to fit in.
Bishop David starts to really take a look at his congregation and see that maybe some have forgotten some of the Amish ways . What happens when several families find wealth ? Will they allow that wealth to overshadow their Amish beliefs? Have you ever found yourself comprising your beliefs ? I loved how the author showed the conflicts the community faced with their new found prosperity and how the Bishop realized that he needed to take a firmer stand. Did he get so caught up in becoming a newlywed that he forgot about his duties as a Bishop?
I can't forget to mention Luke Schrock. He sure does have a big chip on his shoulders. He is jealous of the budding friendship between Ruthie and Patrick. His anger comes out in hurtful ways and I loved how the author showed his life spinning out of control. His actions cause a lot of pain and anger for Ruthie. Will she be able to forgive him? Will he get help before it is to late? I loved his character the most because it showed how jealousy can cause destruction in someone's life. I remember the scripture that says, "Pride cometh before a fall," and the author does an amazing job of showing how pride and jealousy can change a person. It was very powerful to read and it brought tears to my eyes to see the pain Luke was in. Will Luke be able to find his way back to God? Can he swallow his pride and ask for forgiveness ?
The characters in the book draw on their faith and along the way find forgiveness, hope and unconditional love. The book delivers an unforgettable story that reminds us to never give up, follow your dreams and surround yourself with family and God.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member Anne_Rightler
The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher, third in The Bishop series is a charming and compelling look into the world of the Amish through the Stoltzfus family. Although part of a series, it is easily a stand alone novel that focuses on one of the Stoltzfus daughters, Ruthie, who at seventeen feels like
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
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a bird trapped in a cage. Can she find what she is looking for in the Amish way of life or will she follow in her aunt's footsteps and have a career as an outsider? Luke is Ruthie's on again, off again romantic relationship and yet Luke has deep-seated issues. What will it take to scare the sin out of Luke? The unflappable Canadian, Patrick, longs to find a simpler way of life and has come to learn the Amish way. Will he fit in or give up once he realizes the simple life is not easy. And the Bishop, David, what a strong character with a steadfast faith in the way of God and deep concern for his people. How can he help his community remain whole and healthy, and maintain their willingness to put each other first? The author has an exceptional gift for character development and storytelling and The Devoted is a wonderful example of both. The characters are amazingly realistic and the story pulls the reader right in, wondering how things are going to work out for this family. Fisher takes the rather weighty issues of alcoholism, serious illness, and teenage rebellion and threads them through with a strong faith in God and a hope that doesn't disappoint. Hope and trust in God...understanding their connection will bring one to a profound desire for lifelong obedience to a God who loves His children and calls them to holiness.I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
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LibraryThing member lanehillhouse
Saturday, October 8, 2016
The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher, © 2016
The Bishop's Family, Book 3
A quiet starry night as a faint breeze floated over the hillside at the Inn of Eagle Hill. On the way home, finished for the night, Ruthie Stolzfus encounters a man in need of rest. Decision-making when
Conversational, you will get to know the people at Stoney Ridge and the intent of their hearts.
"It's a funny thing about time. There always seems to be enough of it for the things that really matter."
--The Devoted, 150.
I liked that characters from previous stories were part of the conclusion of this series. Constant, continuing in their days, some with more gusto than others, doing what they "knew to do." A new arrival is Patrick Kelly from Canada, who is having an extended stay at the cottage at Rose King's inn across from Ruthie's family's home property.
"People change," Patrick said. "You might try giving her a fresh start. People rise to our expectations for them."
--Ibid., 179.
Ruthie feels she is insignificant, unaware of the people who look to her for support. Her willingness to help others is beneficial in finding her niche. I like how the showing more than telling, motivates others to reveal themselves. There are lessons to be learned; when to be quiet and when to speak. Another character who unknowingly is a strong encourager is Birdy. If you have yet to meet her, you will find her to be a joy in being aware of her surroundings and spreading happiness and a lift of cares when you are near her. What a jewel she is.
Psalm 139 fully is portrayed in this story beyond David Stolzfus' remembrance of being hemmed in, surrounded by the Lord's care ~ "Thou has beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me."
***Thank you to Suzanne Woods Fisher and to Revell Reads for sending me a copy of The Devoted for review. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher, © 2016
The Bishop's Family, Book 3
A quiet starry night as a faint breeze floated over the hillside at the Inn of Eagle Hill. On the way home, finished for the night, Ruthie Stolzfus encounters a man in need of rest. Decision-making when
Show More
you are finished and ready to head home is a little out of the ordinary, especially with no reservation to prepare for a night guest.Conversational, you will get to know the people at Stoney Ridge and the intent of their hearts.
"It's a funny thing about time. There always seems to be enough of it for the things that really matter."
--The Devoted, 150.
I liked that characters from previous stories were part of the conclusion of this series. Constant, continuing in their days, some with more gusto than others, doing what they "knew to do." A new arrival is Patrick Kelly from Canada, who is having an extended stay at the cottage at Rose King's inn across from Ruthie's family's home property.
"People change," Patrick said. "You might try giving her a fresh start. People rise to our expectations for them."
--Ibid., 179.
Ruthie feels she is insignificant, unaware of the people who look to her for support. Her willingness to help others is beneficial in finding her niche. I like how the showing more than telling, motivates others to reveal themselves. There are lessons to be learned; when to be quiet and when to speak. Another character who unknowingly is a strong encourager is Birdy. If you have yet to meet her, you will find her to be a joy in being aware of her surroundings and spreading happiness and a lift of cares when you are near her. What a jewel she is.
Psalm 139 fully is portrayed in this story beyond David Stolzfus' remembrance of being hemmed in, surrounded by the Lord's care ~ "Thou has beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me."
***Thank you to Suzanne Woods Fisher and to Revell Reads for sending me a copy of The Devoted for review. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
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LibraryThing member alekee
The Devoted is the third book in The Bishop’s Family series, and we get caught up in the lives of the Stoltzfus family. Lives have moved on, and now David is married to Birdie, so glad, and there are going to be new additions to the family with Katrina and Andy. Jessie is still pining for Min,
Some very horrendous acts are committed here, and you will really be shocked by some of them, I know I was. There is also a new fellow in town, and he of course, is keeping a secret, Patrick Kelly, he desires to become Amish in one month, huh?
You will soon be wrapped up in this book and page-turning to find out the answers to all of the questions that you are going to have. The end of this book will answer a lot of questions, but I could go on forever with this dear family, sad to have a series end.
Pick this one up and you won’t be disappointed, I recommend that you read the other equally great books, but this one can be read alone.
I received this book through the Publisher Revell’s Blogger Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
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and we hope he will move on, and lastly we have Ruthie still giving Luke second chances.Some very horrendous acts are committed here, and you will really be shocked by some of them, I know I was. There is also a new fellow in town, and he of course, is keeping a secret, Patrick Kelly, he desires to become Amish in one month, huh?
You will soon be wrapped up in this book and page-turning to find out the answers to all of the questions that you are going to have. The end of this book will answer a lot of questions, but I could go on forever with this dear family, sad to have a series end.
Pick this one up and you won’t be disappointed, I recommend that you read the other equally great books, but this one can be read alone.
I received this book through the Publisher Revell’s Blogger Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
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LibraryThing member Virginia51
Ruthie must decide whether she wants to remain with the Amish or leave and get more education. During this time she is trying to decide whether she wants to remain Luke Schrock's girlfriend. He is doing many things she does not like but she thinks she still is in love with him. Then in comes
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Patrick who wants to become Amish and is a gentleman. This book makes you laugh and cry. I love the characters. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion. Show Less
LibraryThing member vintagebeckie
The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher marks the third book in The Bishop’s Family series. With the Stoltzfus’ large family and many more community members with stories waiting to be told, it certainly will not be the last book set in the Amish community of Stoney Creek, Pennsylvania. In this
I love how Fisher makes the people in Stoney Ridge real and relevant for any reader. I have said it before, but it bears repeating: although the characters are Amish, they could easily belong to any community anywhere. There stories are filled with real life struggles and doubts and hopes and dreams. But it is not just the Amish of the community who are featured. Three Englisch characters figure prominently in The Devoted and are positive influences on the story as well as some of the other characters. The Amish of Stoney Creek are not immune from influences of the world, in spite of their commitment to remain separate. Fisher examines the role of wealth in a believer’s life — in bringing blessings and in drawing us away from God. Fisher also does not shy away from showing the deceptions and consequences of a fallen world.
From deep in the heart of Amish country, The Devoted is a story for anyone, a story full of wisdom and wit. Another winner from Fisher, for this reader it is a highly recommended read!
Highly recommended.
Audience: older teens to adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
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installment, a young man from outside the community begins a long visit at the Inn at Eagle Hill and brings with him a quiet assurance and insight that challenges more than one of the people living there. Change could be coming to the church at Stoney Creek, but it may not be all for the good.I love how Fisher makes the people in Stoney Ridge real and relevant for any reader. I have said it before, but it bears repeating: although the characters are Amish, they could easily belong to any community anywhere. There stories are filled with real life struggles and doubts and hopes and dreams. But it is not just the Amish of the community who are featured. Three Englisch characters figure prominently in The Devoted and are positive influences on the story as well as some of the other characters. The Amish of Stoney Creek are not immune from influences of the world, in spite of their commitment to remain separate. Fisher examines the role of wealth in a believer’s life — in bringing blessings and in drawing us away from God. Fisher also does not shy away from showing the deceptions and consequences of a fallen world.
From deep in the heart of Amish country, The Devoted is a story for anyone, a story full of wisdom and wit. Another winner from Fisher, for this reader it is a highly recommended read!
Highly recommended.
Audience: older teens to adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
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LibraryThing member Kris_Anderson
The Devoted by Suzanne Woods Fisher is the third book in The Bishop’s Family series. Ruthie Stoltzfus is seventeen years old and living in Stoney Ridge, Pennsylvania. Ruthie knows she wants something more. She even took the GED without anyone knowing. She is inspired by her aunt, Dr. Ruth
The Devoted was an enjoyable book to read. It is a heartwarming novel with enjoyable characters, nice setting, and good messages. The Devoted cannot be read alone. In order to understand the characters and their dynamics, you need to read the other novels in the series (otherwise, you will be confused). The novel is well-written and has a sweet ending. The Devoted deals with alcolhism, teenage growing pains, illness, love, faith and much more. Scripture verses are sprinkled throughout the novel to help reinforce the messages (sometimes it is a little preachy). I give The Devoted 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). If you enjoy Amish novels, I recommend The Bishop’s Family series. I look forward to reading more books by Suzanne Woods Fisher in the future.
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Stoltzfus. Ruthie just needs to figure out exactly what she wants. Patrick Kelly has come from Canada and is determined to become Amish. He wants to totally immerse himself in the culture and has given himself thirty days to learn everything he needs to know to become a good Amish person. He has hired Ruthie to teach him Penn Dutch. Ruthie enjoys spending time with Patrick. He is different from Luke Schrock, her ex-boyfriend. Luke does not like seeing Ruthie with someone else. But Luke is not ready to settle down. He has too much fun drinking and getting into trouble (which is why he is an ex-boyfriend). Dr. Ruth is having some problems of her own. Thanks to her boyfriend, Ed Gingerich she is now out of job. Dr. Ruth now has the chance to take over Dr. Max Finegold’s practice in Stoney Ridge. Dr. Ruth ran away from this town when she was younger. Is she ready to come back? Will the Amish community accept Dr. Ruth as their new doctor? Life is never dull for the citizens of Stoney Ridge. The Devoted was an enjoyable book to read. It is a heartwarming novel with enjoyable characters, nice setting, and good messages. The Devoted cannot be read alone. In order to understand the characters and their dynamics, you need to read the other novels in the series (otherwise, you will be confused). The novel is well-written and has a sweet ending. The Devoted deals with alcolhism, teenage growing pains, illness, love, faith and much more. Scripture verses are sprinkled throughout the novel to help reinforce the messages (sometimes it is a little preachy). I give The Devoted 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). If you enjoy Amish novels, I recommend The Bishop’s Family series. I look forward to reading more books by Suzanne Woods Fisher in the future.
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LibraryThing member polarmath
I like reading about the Amish way of life and how they come to their decisions about whether to say and grow up Amish or pursue different avenues. Ruthie is trying to decide whether she wants to remain with her faith and family or use her money and education to go a different route. At the same
I enjoyed seeing how Ruthie came to her decision and enjoyed the trip back ot Stoney Ridge.
I received a copy of this book for free, the review is my own.
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time she is trying to decide she also must make a decision about two suitors in her life Patrick who is converting to the Amish ways of life and her ex, Luke.I enjoyed seeing how Ruthie came to her decision and enjoyed the trip back ot Stoney Ridge.
I received a copy of this book for free, the review is my own.
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LibraryThing member Becky_L
Oh, wow! I am rereading parts of this book,The Devoted, by Suzanne Woods Fisher, to complete my review. It still leaves me with the same sense of awe and wonder I had the first time. I'm ready to read it all over again, already. Now there's a good book!
What makes for such a good book? Several
David's son,Jesse,has his appearances, although the book focuses more on Ruth, David's sister, and Ruthie,his daughter. These characters are all well-drawn and rounded. So many people to follow with their relationships and feelings. Yet, Fisher ties them all together for a tremendously well-woven, warm Amish quilt feeling. When the book ends, you feel like you have been under that warm Amish quilt and don't want to come out, because you're way too comfortable and happy.
Suzanne Woods Fisher just was added to my list of favorite Amish authors. I received this book as a complimentary copy, but will not hesitate to buy any others. All opinions presented here are solely my own.
What makes for such a good book? Several
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things. Fisher presents us with an unusual bishop,David Stoltzfus,compared to the ones we usually see. David is thoughtful, not dogmatic or legalistic for their own sake. He wants to understand each situation separately.David's son,Jesse,has his appearances, although the book focuses more on Ruth, David's sister, and Ruthie,his daughter. These characters are all well-drawn and rounded. So many people to follow with their relationships and feelings. Yet, Fisher ties them all together for a tremendously well-woven, warm Amish quilt feeling. When the book ends, you feel like you have been under that warm Amish quilt and don't want to come out, because you're way too comfortable and happy.
Suzanne Woods Fisher just was added to my list of favorite Amish authors. I received this book as a complimentary copy, but will not hesitate to buy any others. All opinions presented here are solely my own.
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LibraryThing member lamb521
Title: The Devoted (The Bishop Family #3)
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Pages: 336
Year: 2016
My rating is 5 out of 5 stars.
This final book of the series, The Devoted, focuses on the character of Ruthie Stolzfus who is the daughter of the bishop in Stoney Ridge. We meet the community of Amish and the
Ruthie thinks she might want to leave the Amish like the Bishop David’s sister did so she can be freer in ways she cannot as an Amish woman. I enjoyed the multifaceted tensions in the story line of the novels that were spiritual in many ways and also relational. I enjoyed David’s character the most as he seeks God in the Word, prayer and meditation. Plus, David doesn’t want to begin taking shortcuts to hurry people through to baptism. He likes to give God time to work on the heart instead of browbeating as some in the community want to do. I also enjoyed seeing how older women in the community helped the younger woman with some of the struggles of life as they grew older. In our day and age, we could use more of this passing on of wisdom, opening heart and home to young woman.
The idea of taking in a woman who is searching for God and needing to learn even the basic household tasks or taking care of an elderly woman who is alone is I think a wonderful idea. I hope you read and enjoy all three novels in the series as I did. Suzanne writes with such heart and realism that is unique and makes the stories unforgettable!
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Pages: 336
Year: 2016
My rating is 5 out of 5 stars.
This final book of the series, The Devoted, focuses on the character of Ruthie Stolzfus who is the daughter of the bishop in Stoney Ridge. We meet the community of Amish and the
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Stolzfus family in the first book titled, The Imposter and then the story continues in The Quieting. What I enjoy most about the novels isn’t the focus on the Amish per se, but the human factor that is present no matter what community one belongs to. With the human element, readers will come across one character named Luke who is trying to find his way through life, but his choices bring dire consequences.Ruthie thinks she might want to leave the Amish like the Bishop David’s sister did so she can be freer in ways she cannot as an Amish woman. I enjoyed the multifaceted tensions in the story line of the novels that were spiritual in many ways and also relational. I enjoyed David’s character the most as he seeks God in the Word, prayer and meditation. Plus, David doesn’t want to begin taking shortcuts to hurry people through to baptism. He likes to give God time to work on the heart instead of browbeating as some in the community want to do. I also enjoyed seeing how older women in the community helped the younger woman with some of the struggles of life as they grew older. In our day and age, we could use more of this passing on of wisdom, opening heart and home to young woman.
The idea of taking in a woman who is searching for God and needing to learn even the basic household tasks or taking care of an elderly woman who is alone is I think a wonderful idea. I hope you read and enjoy all three novels in the series as I did. Suzanne writes with such heart and realism that is unique and makes the stories unforgettable!
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LibraryThing member Maydacat
Newcomer Patrick arrives in Stoney Ridge, and his presence will affect the community, especially Ruthie. He is Canadian and Catholic, but he thinks he would like to become Amish. And so, he, and his parents, have given him a month to immerse himself in the culture and the faith. Luke’s drinking
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and his behavior have worsened, and he is barely in control. He refuses to honor Ruthie’s declaration that they are no longer a couple, and he sees Patrick as a rival and a threat. Luke needs serious help, but whether it will save him from his path of destruction remains to be seen. This is an interesting conclusion to this trilogy. Some storylines are tied up, others are not. Readers will want to revisit Stoney Ridge in future books to see if Luke’s life is redeemable, and how the lives of the other characters are playing out. There is certainly much to be enjoyed by reading this series, along with some pearls of wisdom to ponder. Show Less
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2016
Physical description
332 p.; 8.5 inches
ISBN
0800723228 / 9780800723224