Carole J. (PianoLady357) reviewed on 3/19/2019 + 157 more book reviews

Mending Fences by Suzanne Woods Fisher is an incredible book and I hardly know how to do it justice. Amish fiction fans will be thrilled with this story, but I've always said that Fisher's books have an appeal that reaches far beyond the Amish fiction audience, and that is certainly true with Mending Fences. The reason is simply that her novels are relationship/character driven and filled with complexity. Readers can connect with people just like them â flawed characters who struggle with the same things we do, and who inspire as they grow in their faith and maturity. The heartwarming and sometimes bittersweet Mending Fences entertains, often makes me smile, and challenges what we think about grace, forgiveness and trust. A âbest of the bestâ book for me!

My reading self is nowhere more at home than in Fisher's stories set in Lancaster. I first met the memorable Luke as a precocious child in The Letters and knew that he would have a fantastic story someday. Well, that day has arrived with this first book in The Deacon's Family series. Luke, haunted by the guilt of his past, is one of my all-time favorite fictional characters, and the cover art brings out the essence of his nature. And what a strong ensemble cast is found in David, Amos and Fern â people who lived their faith by their wisdom, insight into what could be, and willingness to extend the grace of second chances.

For the longest time, Izzy has a strong defensive wall around her â but oh, how I loved her! When it came to God, she refused to trust that which she didn't understand, and I could see some of my own reactions in her. And she was so good for Luke because she made him earn her respect.

Some of my favorite parts are the gentle words of wisdom that Amos shares at just the right time. One example is this conversation between Amos and Lukeâ¦

âHow can I stick around when no one is willing to trust me?â
âWell, Luke, the way I see it, if you don't stick around, you'll never find out the answer to that question... And it seems like a pretty important thing to figure out.â

There are a few tear-shedding moments in this story, both of joy and sadness. Mending Fences reflects life and faith in a realistic way, giving much to reflect on personally. If there's someone around you who needs a second chance, grace, someone who has eyes to see beyond a person's guilt, then this story just might help you see them through God's eyes.

Again, I really can't say enough about this story. While I've loved all that I've read by Suzanne Woods Fisher, there's something special and unique about Luke's story. Mending Fences begs to be read slowly, savoring each word.

Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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