I have honestly never really read a book about the Amish before, but this story was fascinating! I was hooked on this story right from the start, and it taught me a lot about the culture. I read it in 3-4 days time - a record for me, and I just hated to put it down! I loved the way the characters came alive, and can't wait to see what is going to happen next! September is so far away - what will we do until then??!!

Author B.J. Hoff has written another wonderful historical novel, this time set in Amish country. I love the way the author creates impossible situations bringing together Amish women with outsiders. To have any type of relationship, especially one that might lead to more than friendship, goes against everything Rachel's faith requires, even demands. When all is said and done, will Rachel follow her faith or follow her heart?

Author B.J. Hoff is a master storyteller and her characters live long after the book is closed. I can't wait to read book two!

Written by: BJ Hoff
Published by: Harvest House
Reviewed by: Stephanie Rollins with[...] 11/2008
ISBN: 978-0-7369-2418-4
"A Page-turner" 4 stars
Rachel is a very young widow. She refuses to live with her family; she wants to live on her own. Then, there is a knock on the door late one night. Her life was forever changed.
Both Rachel and her mother fall in love with English men. Will they leave the faith for these men or will they forever long for them?
Another thread in this book is the trials and tribulations of the underground railroad. Who is helping these runaway slaves? Surely, it is not the Amish.
The only reason I did not give this book a "5" is that it needs editing. I realize that it is somewhat acceptable to start sentences with conjunctions in the midst of dialogue, but it should never been done otherwise. Overlook that and read this wonderful Amish book that rivals Cindy Woodsmall's wonderful stories.

Had things to do, when I received this book, and knew if I started it, NOTHING WOULD GET DONE... After I started it, nothing did!!! It has wonderful characters and an absorbing plot. Love them all. Great glimpes into the workings of Amish life. It was a delight to read. Kept looking at the pages to read, did not want it to end. Also, loved the "DISCUSSION QUESTIONS" in the back. Food for thought!!!
Do we really have to wait B.J. until Sept 2009??? :(
Katherine Mary

This item was received in a timely fashion. Would do business again with this seller.

One of BJ Hoff's cornerstones is character development. In Rachel's Secret, not only do we step into the lives of memorable characters, this particular story's opening chapters make it impossible for the reader to put the book down. A perfect blend of people, drama, and faith, salted with a touch of gritty reality--another of this writer's hallmarks. I particularly admired the way the author develops Rachel's internal struggle to live by her Amish faith in a world that is often cruel, evil, and unfair. Can't wait for the second book in this series.

I brought this book to work to read on my lunch break and every day had to force myself to shut it and go back to work! Loved the characters, loved the story line, loved everything about it...except it ended too soon! :-) Am anxious to find out what happens to Asa...Gant...Gideon...Rachel...don't leave me hanging too long, BJ!! :-)

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R16NUFY7K1YALR Rachel Brenneman is an Amish widow with a deep faith and an even deeper secret. She goes about her daily routine, all the while agonizing over what she keeps hidden. Then Irish riverboat captain Jeremiah Gant bursts into her home in the middle of the night. He's shot, delirious, and barely alive, and he carries his own yoke of secrets. Will he survive the night? Will her heart survive if he does?

Don't miss this amazing story!