Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley by W. Dale Cramer

On the library stacks: Adult fiction - Religious
Series: Daughters of Caleb Bender #1

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In 1921 a law was passed in Ohio that required Amish children to attend public school. When Caleb Bender discovers that cheap land is for sale in Mexico, he sets out with his family to raise his crops where he can practice his faith without interference. If Caleb is successful in Mexico, especially in the tense aftermath of the Mexican Revolution, others will follow.

Caleb has a lot of children! This book focuses a lot on young Rachel who develops a crush on Jake Weaver, whom she must leave behind. Her older sister and idol, Emma, is concerned about her future with long-time beau, Levi Mullet. And headstrong sister Miriam must set out on the journey with no marriage prospects and wonders what will become of her in a land where no one shares their faith.

I read Christian fiction occasionally, but this is my first time reading a book that focused on the Amish. I really loved learning more about their faith and I loved that this book is based on the lives of the author's grandparents. The characters are not perfect, and they do get themselves into some predicaments. I grew to love the family and I was rooting for them the whole way. I will definitely be on the lookout for the next book in the series in 2012.

Also reviewed by: 2 Kids and Tired Book Reviews ~ My Friend Amy ~ My Own Little Corner of the World ~ Your link here?

Source: Purchased