Orchard

Probably my favorite Beverly Lewis story so far (and I've read most of them!). I had never considered what the peace-loving Amish experienced during this tumultuous time in our country. A great read!

A look into a small pacifist religious sect, the Amish, who saw its young men registered as conscientious objectors. In this book, the focus is on a young man who, due for his own reasons, decides to forego classification as a CO and is drafted into the Army. It deals with the effects of the man`s decision on family and friends and the changes it caused, both within his Amish community and outside of it. The man`s family never gave up on him although unhappy with his choice.While a romance and drama, there are also bits of history mixed in as older man describe their treatment during WWII as COs. Some worked in civilian fields, others were taken into non-combatant roles in the military and conditions they served in. This is something of an under reported aspect of WWII - the roles of conscientious objectors. As farmers, Amish men were likely of greater value raising crops and running dairy herds than labelling lab specimens in a hospital.I consider this a book with value on many levels and is highly recommended.

Bought used for my mom, price was so worth it!

Good service. Good book.

Two reasons drew me to this book, no it was three things. First was that I love Anything written by Beverly Lewis. Second the cover is breathtakingly beautiful with the spring blossoms on the trees. Third I enjoy any book written that goes back in history and this book’s story covers the early years of the Vietnam war in the seventies. It’s a story about an Amish Family that made their living from an orchard that grew peaches and apples. The main characters in the story are Amish 19 year old twins Evan Hostetler and Ellie Hostetler. All characters in this story play an important role and are strong personalities. Even though the Amish are conscientious objectors of war, the Vietnam war changes their life when a member of the Hostetler family decides to enlist when his number comes up in the draft call. This book was very realistic and I thought it to be original. It covers a two year span in this family’s life and when the end comes I just wanted the book to go on and on. I wanted to cry with the family and rejoice with the family. This is one of the best books I’ve read so far this year.I highly recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction, Historical Fiction, and Christian Fiction. It can be read as a stand alone.I purchased my own copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.

I found this book to be endearing and inspirational. Each character having their trials to overcome and seeking help from their heavenly Father. I love the setting of the orchard and wanted to be in the middle of it, working with this family. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Beverly Lewis.

I've been reading Beverly Lewis books for years. I really love them all! Her Amish fiction keeps me coming back for more!

oh Beverly, The Orchard was a beautiful gift straight from heaven into your writing hands and mind to us your very lucky and delighted reader-friends. It was a wonderful story. You always bring such depth and life to your characters. You gently cover the tough things in life, domestic abuse [Annie's, going against the people, pre marriage conceptions etc and the faith that frames the stories help a lot of people. God has given you such a gift!

It came very fast and was in great condition. Can't wait to read it! :)

I was disappointed in this book, it was slow going and labourous to read, sorry Beverly, I have read better books from you

A brilliant spiritual stuff with a blend of fiction. Beautiful contrast of life and death. I feel peace within to read it. I wish to read many more beautiful stories from young authors.

Go back to your college days with a pinch of wisdom. Great memory refresher.

great book.... must read