A Promise for Miriam by Vanetta Chapman
Thursday, May 17th, 2012
A Promise for Miriam, the first book in a brand-new romantic series from popular author Vannetta Chapman, introduces the Amish community of Pebble Creek and some of the kind, caring people there. As they face challenges to their community from the English world, they come together to reach out to their non-Amish neighbors while still preserving their cherished Plain ways.
Amish schoolteacher Miriam King loves her students. At 26, most women her age are married with children of their own, but she hasn’t yet met anyone who can convince her to give up the Plain school that sits along the banks of Pebble Creek. Then newcomer Gabriel Yoder steps into her life, bringing his daughter, an air of mystery, and challenges Miriam has never faced before.
Will Gabe be able to let go of the past that haunts him? He thinks he just wants to be left alone, but the loving and warm community he and his daughter have moved to has other plans for him. After a near tragedy is averted, he hesitantly returns offers of help and friendship, and he discovers he can make a difference to the people of Pebble Creek—and maybe find love again.
My Comments: This book includes several sub plots and just when one is completed another begins. I loved it! Instead of several short novels, A Promise for Miriam is one meaty book (over 300 pages). The Amish in this story are quite conservative. They utilize outhouses and do not have indoor plumbing. Yet they survive and thrive in this environment. Gabe and Grace come to Pebble Creek and quickly adjust after being in a more liberal group in Indiana. Miracles seem to abound in this quiet community. Friends and family are extremely supportive, which Gabe quickly discovers. Amish romances seem especially sweet to me – no pretense, just sincere, hard-working people. I’ll add this to my list of favorite Amish novels!











