Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Bethany House Publishers (2012), 325 pages
Description
"A wrong turn in a rainstorm leads Englisher Amelia Devries to Michael Hostetler, and the young Amishman's charming Old Order community of Hickory Hollow. Despite their very different backgrounds, Amelia and Michael both feel hemmed in by the expectations of others and struggle with how to find room for their own hopes. And what first seems to be a chance encounter might just change their lives forever"--P. [4] of cover.
User reviews
LibraryThing member PhDinHorribleness
I have enjoyed everything I've ever read by Beverly Lewis and this was no exception! She captures the lifestyle of the Amish so well and always has characters who are full of heart. This is a story about two young people trying to determine their place in life and accidentally finding love along
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the way. I will be eagerly looking forward to more books in this series! Show Less
LibraryThing member starbritejan
This book I could not put down. I read it in one sitting from start to finish!I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book and am looking forward to a sequel!!
LibraryThing member mwortinger
This book is about Amelia, a violinst who also plays country music on her fiddle secretley as Amy Lee. Driving home on a rainy & windy night she makes a wrong turn and then ends up with a flat tire. She ends up at the home of Michael, who has been struggling with his Amish faith. He misses his
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family but has been going to college and feels drawn to the Englisch life. Michael and Amelia are drawn to each other from the beginning and their relationship slowly grows stronger. This is another one of Beverly Lewis books that I have enjoyed. Show Less
LibraryThing member ReviewsFromTheHeart
Beverly Lewis' latest Amish novel, The Fiddler introduces us to a new series, Home to Hickory Hollow where she imaginary setting she created for the Shunning was born. Here we meet at an unusual crossroads between the English world and the Amish one.
Amelia Devries has been living a dual life. One
When a sudden thunderstorm leaves her lost on a back country road, she finds herself with a flat tire and no phone service for her cell phone. Once the rain lets up a bit, she finds her way to a mountain cabin where an Amish young man, Michael Hostetler offers her shelter from the storm.
Michael has been struggling with the same issues as Amelia, having to live a life that would please his parents who hope that by now, he'd be baptized in the Old Amish Order and find himself a nice Amish young girl to begin a family with. Yet Michael finds a yearning for school and learning, taking on line courses in college. His struggle while running away from his old life is to find a place where he believes God is calling him, and what he doesn't expect is to find it in the music Amelia plays for him.
I received The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and was so captivated by the peace and tranquility of not only Amelia's music but also for the people in Hickory Hollow. My favorite character is Ella Mae, considered by the Amish to be the Wise Woman, with an answer to what troubles you most. Her advice to Amelia when she believes she has lost the gumption to confront her father?
"The gumption, my dear, comes when you believe in your decision so much you simply have to follow your heart, come what may. If ya believe God's nudging you in a certain direction, you best follow that, no ifs, ands, or buts."
How I wish there was such a mentor in my own personal life and found myself sitting on the porch swing with Ella Mae while I was reading this. How could I not stay and sit awhile just talking to her about life? This is what makes this such a wonderful and compelling novel for anyone to read. The characters even though they are fictional, feel alive as if they have a home next door to you, just waiting for you to stop on over for a visit, and that's just what you'll get when you open the book. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and will be sure to follow this series all the way through to the end.
Amelia Devries has been living a dual life. One
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for her father as an accomplished concerto violinist, and that of Amy Lee, a country fiddler. What is a catalyst for Amelia is how to bridge the communication gap between her father's dreams for her and her love of making music without the pressure or stress of being at the top of her game all the time. Not only that she is struggling with finding the love that she had for her boyfriend Bryon, also a musician. Perhaps God will provide the answer she seeks.When a sudden thunderstorm leaves her lost on a back country road, she finds herself with a flat tire and no phone service for her cell phone. Once the rain lets up a bit, she finds her way to a mountain cabin where an Amish young man, Michael Hostetler offers her shelter from the storm.
Michael has been struggling with the same issues as Amelia, having to live a life that would please his parents who hope that by now, he'd be baptized in the Old Amish Order and find himself a nice Amish young girl to begin a family with. Yet Michael finds a yearning for school and learning, taking on line courses in college. His struggle while running away from his old life is to find a place where he believes God is calling him, and what he doesn't expect is to find it in the music Amelia plays for him.
I received The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and was so captivated by the peace and tranquility of not only Amelia's music but also for the people in Hickory Hollow. My favorite character is Ella Mae, considered by the Amish to be the Wise Woman, with an answer to what troubles you most. Her advice to Amelia when she believes she has lost the gumption to confront her father?
"The gumption, my dear, comes when you believe in your decision so much you simply have to follow your heart, come what may. If ya believe God's nudging you in a certain direction, you best follow that, no ifs, ands, or buts."
How I wish there was such a mentor in my own personal life and found myself sitting on the porch swing with Ella Mae while I was reading this. How could I not stay and sit awhile just talking to her about life? This is what makes this such a wonderful and compelling novel for anyone to read. The characters even though they are fictional, feel alive as if they have a home next door to you, just waiting for you to stop on over for a visit, and that's just what you'll get when you open the book. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and will be sure to follow this series all the way through to the end.
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LibraryThing member davemac
For those familiar with Beverly Lewis' work, this book will not disappoint. It seemed to take longer than expected to get started - the author took some time to develop the characters and the plot - but once it got going it was a good read. The story line was interesting and believable and it was
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well-written. As usual, Ms. Lewis gives us honest and respectful insights into the Amish culture, and it was especially interesting to me because I have family that recently moved not too far away from the location of most of the book's action. It is a book worth reading. Show Less
LibraryThing member myoldkyhome
In true Beverly Lewis fashion, this is another great book on Amish life. I truly enjoy Lewis' books. Her character development quickly takes the reader into the lives of the Plain folks whom she writes about. In this book, we are introduced to an Englisher, a musician, in the very beginning, which
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is a little different twist from her other books. I love Lewis' books and The Fiddler is certainly no disappointment. I can't wait to read the next installment of this series. Show Less
LibraryThing member julie.billing
Advanced Reader Copy
Beverly Lewis takes us back to Hickory Hollow (from her The Shunning Series) this time. While I enjoyed the book, it was different than my favorite Lewis books. Told from the standpoint of the Christian main character who gets to know an Amish community, it seemed a bit
Beverly Lewis takes us back to Hickory Hollow (from her The Shunning Series) this time. While I enjoyed the book, it was different than my favorite Lewis books. Told from the standpoint of the Christian main character who gets to know an Amish community, it seemed a bit
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backwards from Lewis' typical story. Good characters as always, and great descriptions that let you see the setting in your mind's eye. It appears this one is a stand alone rather than the trilogies that she does so well, which was fine. Sometimes it's nice to see everything wrapped up without waiting for the next book. I enjoyed this book, although I prefer her more typical Amish storylines than I did this one. Show Less
LibraryThing member george1295
Because of the difference in perspective, this novel was intriguiing and engaging. It provides an insight into the classical music world juxtaposed to the simple serenity of the Amish life. Lewis eloquently presents a tale of inspirtation, redemption and love.
LibraryThing member cyndidd
Amelia Devries is a successful violinist who is still trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. She enjoys playing the violin, but she has also found a passion in playing the fiddle. When her agent finds out she has been playing fiddle with a band, and has even won an award at it,
Michael Hostetler is trying to figure out what path to take in life. Does he join the Amish church as his family is pushing for? Or does he continue his education and live as an Englisher? Michael takes a few days off to think and pray, staying in a rustic cabin in the mountains. A knock at the door changes his life forever.
Amelia and Michael find that there is more to life than living up to other people's expectations and that even when it is sometimes hard to follow your dream, the benefits can far outweigh the criticism from others.
I really enjoyed this book and was able to review it for Bethany House through Library Thing. I have given my honest review in return for a complimentary copy of this book.
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she realizes that it is time to make some life changing decisions. On her drive home from a concert where she opened for a well known country singer, she gets lost in the mountains in Pennsylvania. After a blown tire causes her aimless drive to stop, she wanders up the lane to find a cabin. Michael Hostetler is trying to figure out what path to take in life. Does he join the Amish church as his family is pushing for? Or does he continue his education and live as an Englisher? Michael takes a few days off to think and pray, staying in a rustic cabin in the mountains. A knock at the door changes his life forever.
Amelia and Michael find that there is more to life than living up to other people's expectations and that even when it is sometimes hard to follow your dream, the benefits can far outweigh the criticism from others.
I really enjoyed this book and was able to review it for Bethany House through Library Thing. I have given my honest review in return for a complimentary copy of this book.
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LibraryThing member wearylibrarian
I really enjoyed this book. I could hardly put it down to face the reality of a working day. It wasn't so much that I couldn't wait to see what happened next but that I felt comfortable with the characters. Lewis' writing made me feel as if I was in Hickory Hollow, participating in the lives of the
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Amish families and struggling with their problems. I found myself feeling what Amelia must have experienced as she enjoyed the peacefulness of the small community. I can't wait for book two. Show Less
LibraryThing member hope3957
This was a very enjoyable book. I was always wondering what was going to happen next. A very good picture of what happens when a young person's idea of the path their life should take is different from their parents dreams for them. The characters come from two very different communities the Amish
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and English.This was a very well thought out story that gave us a good picture of the ending. Happy I read this book. Show Less
LibraryThing member justmommy
I have not really enjoyed many of Beverly Lewis' books. I must say that I was surprised by this one. I really enjoyed it from beginning to end. It was not quite as predictable as many of her previous books. I was able to figure out well before the ending how it was going to turn out, but it was an
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enjoyable read to get to the end. Show Less
LibraryThing member kitchenwitch04
I have been a fan of Beverly Lewis for quite awhile, so I was really excited that I had won one of her books thru the Early Reviewers Program.
This book is a little different than usual for Ms. Lewis, as it combines an Amish main character along with an "Englisher" instead of her usual writings
This book was about life altering choices and how they would affect both the "Englisher", Amelia Davis, and the Old Order Amish man she meets, Michael Hostetler. It is a story of stuggle, and a story of strength. I truly enjoyed this book, as well as the characters and the setting of Hickory Hollow (which was also in another series by Lewis entitled "The Shunning".)
This book will surely be enjoyed by those new to Beverly Lewis and/or Amish fiction as well as those who are familiar with her work. I loved it, and I am sure you will to. Thanks again to the Early Reviewer's Program for giving me the opportunity to discover another great book!!
This book is a little different than usual for Ms. Lewis, as it combines an Amish main character along with an "Englisher" instead of her usual writings
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about the "Plain" people themselves. I did enjoy this twist, as I often wondered myself if this scenario actually ever happens in "real" life. This book was about life altering choices and how they would affect both the "Englisher", Amelia Davis, and the Old Order Amish man she meets, Michael Hostetler. It is a story of stuggle, and a story of strength. I truly enjoyed this book, as well as the characters and the setting of Hickory Hollow (which was also in another series by Lewis entitled "The Shunning".)
This book will surely be enjoyed by those new to Beverly Lewis and/or Amish fiction as well as those who are familiar with her work. I loved it, and I am sure you will to. Thanks again to the Early Reviewer's Program for giving me the opportunity to discover another great book!!
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LibraryThing member Maydacat
Beverly Lewis takes a refreshing look at the community of the Amish as it interacts with the English world. In this first book of a new series, conflicts arise as the characters from both communities are trying to discover where God really intends them to be. The rules of the ordnung do not come
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from God but from the community. Is it wrong in God’s eyes not to follow them? And when a talented violinist finally realizes her dreams are different from her parents’ dreams for her, what path should she take? And why, if her musical talent is a God-given gift, do the Amish feel it is wrong to play? These are only some of the conflicts that arise in this beautifully written tale of love and heartache, of hope and belief. The well-developed characters and pastoral setting are only part of the charm of this book. The real interest lies in the blending of music into the storyline. Ms. Lewis does a superb job in capturing the feelings of the young concert master as well as nailing the musical aspects of the story. A wonderful read that will have you wishing for the next installment in this inspirational series. Show Less
LibraryThing member Chrizzy
Beverly Lewis has an unique talent for showing us how seemingly random circumstances are God's way of leading us gently to his will. This story of Amelia and Michael weaves the world's strong pull and God's faithful demeanor.
LibraryThing member Erolene
The Fiddler is about a young woman named Amelia Devries, a concert violinist with a bright future, who isn't sure that being a full-time musician is the future she wants. Desperate for some kind of escape, she takes to secretly playing the fiddle in a small-time country band, going by the name Amy
I've heard a lot about Beverly Lewis, but this was the first book of hers that I've read. I loved Lewis' writing style, and the story, though simple, was also riveting. I loved Hickory Hollow the moment I read about it, even though I haven't read the series that it connects to. Overall, a great stand alone book perfect for Beverly Lewis fans, old and new.
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Lee to keep it from her father and agent. Through a series of events, Amelia ends up having to stay the night in Pennsylvania, and soon discovers Hickory Hollow. She instantly falls in love with the peace and perspective she finds, but will she have the courage to change her life once Hickory Hollow is behind her? I've heard a lot about Beverly Lewis, but this was the first book of hers that I've read. I loved Lewis' writing style, and the story, though simple, was also riveting. I loved Hickory Hollow the moment I read about it, even though I haven't read the series that it connects to. Overall, a great stand alone book perfect for Beverly Lewis fans, old and new.
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LibraryThing member tiinaj1
The Fiddler is a wonderful book - it moves fast, is well written, all the i's & t's are dotted & crossed and I connected with the hero & heroine of this story. Amelia is a believable musician (child prodigy & top level violinist) who is struggling with a big decision and afraid of hurting those who
This verse beautifully describes the theme of the book and both Amelia & Michael take refuge in it:
"Delight thyself also in the Lord and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Ps 37:4
One of the best things I liked about the book is the level of faith sharing that Beverly Lewis imparts. Through the verses given and message of faith both Amelia and Michael are gently encouraged to seek God in prayer and listen to what God is teaching or leading them to do. I loved how it was done without preaching. Both Christians and non-Christians should enjoy this book & it would be a great title for mother daughter reading - the only thing missing is a list of questions for discussion.
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love her if she doesn't make the right one.This verse beautifully describes the theme of the book and both Amelia & Michael take refuge in it:
"Delight thyself also in the Lord and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Ps 37:4
One of the best things I liked about the book is the level of faith sharing that Beverly Lewis imparts. Through the verses given and message of faith both Amelia and Michael are gently encouraged to seek God in prayer and listen to what God is teaching or leading them to do. I loved how it was done without preaching. Both Christians and non-Christians should enjoy this book & it would be a great title for mother daughter reading - the only thing missing is a list of questions for discussion.
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LibraryThing member WCallister
Excellent book! In the same amish genre that Beverly Lewis usually writes in but not the exact same as her other books! Loved it and can't wait for the rest of the series!
LibraryThing member Cathykeller
This was an excellent book. It was hard to put down. It truly lives up to Ms. Lewis previous books. I will be looking forward to the next book in this series. In the men time, I will re-read this book along with her other books. I have enjoyed reading them. Please keep the books coming.
LibraryThing member mminor1985
This is a sweet love story about two young adults who are at a crossroads in their lives. Amelia who is a classical violinist as well as a country fiddler runs into a big rain storm on the way home from a fiddling gig where she meets Amish man, Michael. The two of them strike up a friendship while
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Michael is struggling with his decision to join the Amish church. The author does set up an idealized Amish community. This is a sweet love story about two people from two different worlds. Show Less
LibraryThing member mmgauthier
I have read a series of Beverly Lewis's in the past , which I found enjoyable. This new book of hers "Fiddler" was a bit more current, I think. I enjoyed that though. Because it got away a bit from the constant Amish ways of life, and gave a bit of diversity through out the story by referring to
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the life of an "Englisher". It kept my attention, I enjoyed learning about the life of Amelia, the well known concert Violinist,having it be quite the contrast from the young Amish man she gets to know. It has a nice flow, the story gives what most women are looking for in this type of book. Show Less
LibraryThing member sdmurphy53
As usual Beverly Lewis did an awesome job. I feel like I am right there with the characters in her books, living their life with them. Crying when they cry, laughing when they laugh, and always unable to lay the book down until I have completed it. Looking forward to the next one in the series.
LibraryThing member mookiekat
I received this copy of "The Fiddler" by Beverly Lewis, from the Early Release giveaway and enjoyed it very much. The author did an excellant job of making the characters in the book one's you could relate to. It leaves you with the age-old question of "When two people who just meet, fall in love
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is that an accident or is it fate"? Is it just pure accident when a wrong turn leads Amelia Devries down the very road where a young Amishman by the name of Michael Hostetler lives? Or could it be fate? Amelia a young Englisher whose career as a concert violinist holds more promise than she could ever dream, begins searching for something different. In secret she starts playing a fiddle in out of the way places known only as Amy. After one of her shows during a heavy rainstorm she looses her way and winds up in front of Michael's house where that something different starts to take a deep hold on her very being. Michael, who has left the Order but still keeps some of the Amish traditions falls hard for Amelia. The differences in the way they live makes a possible relationship not something within their grasp or so it seems. The way that the author pulls the souls of each character into a common place makes love between two people who couldnt be more different become a love that welds so beautifully into one. Show Less
LibraryThing member scoutmomskf
Very good book. Amelia is rescued from the rainstorm and a flat tire by Michael. He is staying in a cabin, basically hiding out from his Amish life, trying to decide if he wants to leave it. Amelia is a concert violinist, also trying to decide her future. Amelia and Michael connect right away, each
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recognizing a fellow lost soul. He invites her to come to Hickory Hollow for a few days to relax. I loved the way that Amelia and Michael are able to relate to each other despite their very different backgrounds. Each is able to listen to the other without judging, thereby giving them a chance to explore options. Michael really wants to leave the Amish community, but is afraid of disappointing his family and friends. He is caught between two worlds - his Amish life, helping his father, and his English life, working as an architect and enjoying all the outside world has to offer. Amelia is tired of touring but doesn't know how to tell her father and the others who expect a great future from her. When she visits Hickory Hollow she is drawn to the simpler life she experiences there. I really liked the way she was able to help Michael with his niece, and the way she became such good friends with Joanna. When it is time for her to leave, she and Michael stay in touch for a long while, learning more about each other and expanding their friendship. They lose touch with each other for awhile due to a misunderstanding, but find their way together again after each has found their way to the lives they were meant to lead. I loved seeing the personal growth in both Michael and Amelia. Neither one came to their decisions easily, but the process was completely believable. I enjoyed seeing some characters from previous books. The conclusion to this story was beautifully done. Show Less
LibraryThing member skstiles612
I have to say that Beverly Lewis is one of my favorite authors of Amish fiction. She has crafted a wonderful story where the characters are very believable. Their problems are such that no matter what your background you can relate to them. All of us have parents who have had dreams for their
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children. We don’t want to disappoint our parents. In this book Amelia’s father has a dream of her becoming a concert violinist. Amelia loves playing the violin. However, she really loves fiddling. Her father would think this is beneath her talents. The other main character is Michael. He loves his father dearly but would love to become an architect. That would mean not joining the church and entering college. Neither want to disappoint their parents. Yet, their dreams, if they followed them and their hearts would do just that. They must each face and make hard choices. There is a small romance in the story. Want to find out if either one of them follows their own path? Then I suggest you go out and get this first book in the series. You won’t be disappointed. Show Less
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2012
Physical description
325 p.; 8.5 inches
ISBN
0764209779 / 9780764209772