thefairunknown reviewed on 12/17/2023 + 57 more book reviews

The writing in this book isn't bad, but overall I didn't find it to be an enjoyable read.

There is SO much abuse in this book. Spousal abuse, child abuse, rape and attempted rape, and the list goes on⦠It was really disheartening to read. A lot of it also seemed unnecessary to the plot - as if it was just added in for dramatic effect.

Several of the conversations in this book were sexual in nature, which I found bizarre since all the characters are Old Order Amish or Mennonite. It seemed extremely inappropriate and awkward for them to be discussing such things - multiple times. Some of their other actions also struck me as odd for Christians - like eavesdropping on other people's conversations, and running away from home without so much as leaving a note.

There is a theme of men vs women in this book. It started off as bold, strong women standing up against tyrannical men in their lives but eventually it just turned in to a power struggle, in my opinion, where none of the women EVER wanted to be advised on what to do⦠It was tiring to read about. Also, having every single woman be so headstrong and independent made it difficult for me to differentiate the characters as I was reading. All the female characters blended together in my head.

Most of the book revolves around Deborah and Noah's relationship, and I just found it tedious. I'm not sure how old they're supposed to be. By their actions and conversations I would've guessed 16, but considering they've already been courting/engaged for years they're probably in their early to mid-twenties. I found them both immature and their relationship full of unnecessary drama.

I already have the second book in the series, so I'm going to read it and see if I like it more.

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