Back Cover:

The mistakes of the past haunt Lucy Flaud, now twenty-five and beyond Amish courting age. Instead, Lucy focuses on volunteering in both the Plain and fancy communities of Lancaster County. Yet no matter how hard she strives, she never feels she’s doing enough. Then her father strikes up an unexpected friendship with an Englischer in search of a simpler way of life. Lucy forms a connection of her own with the thoughtful young man even as she rejects courtship with her longtime Amish friend. Is it too late to embrace redemption…and the power of love?

My Review:

Lucy’s hiding a secret from the past. The guilt and shame relentlessly pursue her but she stuffs her feelings inside and strives to put on a smile while serving up bowls of soup to the homeless. Her old beau seeks to rekindle a relationship with her but Lucy resists. What would he think if he knew her secret? It must never get out.

I found myself engrossed in the story, desperate to learn Lucy’s secret. When Lucy’s father attended a grief counseling session and heard their stories, I cried. When Lucy’s homeless friend found a home and a job, thanks to Lucy and the Lord, I cheered. When Lucy’s father’s unexpected friend landed smack in the middle of their simple life, I cringed. When Lucy, at last, came to peace with her past and Toby, I crumbled.

Lucy is like so many of us, hurt from the past and yet hiding it, never letting anyone in. It’s easier to be overwhelmed with busy-ness, leaving no time to ponder the past, than it is to confess and grieve our mistakes. Lucy’s story resonated with me and I enjoyed the nuggets of wisdom from her loved ones throughout the book. If Amish books are your thing, scoop up this book today and enjoy a great read!

You can pick up a copy of The Atonement at your local bookstore or on Amazon.

Disclaimer: Bethany House Publishers provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.