The Prodigal...Review

About the book:
Book 4 in the bestselling Abram's Daughters series. The compelling and continuing chronicle of Abram Ebersol’s family, beginning in the mid-1940s, moves forward in time and scope to the late 50s. The devout Ebersols have faced sometimes-painful divisions and separations--if not geographical, those of the heart. Leah, possibly most of all, has borne losses and revelations that would have undone another whose faith was not firmly established in the God her beloved mother knew so fervently. Leah also has endured the ultimate test of her fortitude, the unexpected return of her shunned sister, Sadie, and the renewed sense of betrayal that arrives home with her. But since the close of The Sacrifice, Leah has occupied her heart and hands with the overseeing of the Ebersol Cottage and the raising of her motherless younger siblings. This includes vivacious Lydiann, who has arrived at the traditional rumschpringe, the time for testing her wings and her willingness to commit to the Old Ways. Will she take the sorrowful path of her older sister Sadie, or will Mamma Leah’s good judgment guide Lydiann safely to her baptismal covenant?

I have loved this series. And this fourth book did not disappoint me. In many ways, I think this one is my favorite so far. It continues the story of Leah and her sisters. Her mother has died and she has raised her youngest brother and sister. Her sister Sadie has returned, and her father has mellowed a little. Thank goodness!

I thought I had the story figured out a couple of books ago, and while I was correct in at least one of my assumptions, I was surprised in other ways. There are twists and turns, heartbreak and love, and even some reconciliation.

Beverly Lewis has created a wonderful story, with characters you can like. Her prose is plain and concise, but not simple or shallow. The first book is a bit of a slow starter, but the rest make up for it. Completely.

I cannot wait to read the 5th and final book of the series.

Thanks to my local library for having a copy I could borrow.

Read 3/08

* * * *
4/5 Stars