25 Book Reviews

Thursday, January 17, 2013

The End of A Series! BUT what an ending!!

      "The Lesson"
By Suzanne Woods Fisher      

Synopsis:      Centered on one of Suzanne Woods Fisher's most loved characters, this is the story fans have eagerly anticipated. The precocious M.K. is all grown up (well, almost) and ready to take on the world-with surprising results. Fisher's trademark plot twists and turns are as unexpected and satisfying as ever in this third book in the Stoney Ridge Seasons series.
In her wildest dreams, spunky and impulsive nineteen-year-old Mary Kate Lapp never imagined herself behind a schoolteacher's desk. A run-in (literally) with the schoolteacher compels her to act as a substitute teacher, just as her restless desire to see the world compels her to apply for a passport . . . just in case. The only thing of interest to M.K. in the sleepy Amish community of Stoney Ridge is the unexplained death of a sheep farmer that coincided with the arrival of a mysterious young man into the community. Frustrated that no one takes the crime seriously, she takes matters into her own hands. Unfortunately, as tends to be the case for M.K., she jumps headlong into trouble.  

My Opinions on this book:
I have been enthralled by every one of Suzanne Woods Fisher's books, and this was certainly no exception!!  I must say, I read this book  with some sadness, as this is the last in the Stoney Ridge Series. Each book has been as interesting and appealing as the last. This series was meant to go on forever. but alas, it can't. Suzanne will move us on to new adventures and happenings!!  Now, the question is  lurking in my mind, what happens to MK next?? Will she have a daughter just like her?? Oh, I do hope so!!

Suzanne's special and unique ability to develop her characters is evident throughout this story.  She has built on the first book of the series by having them age and mature. I eagerly awaited MK"s  appearance in this book and was thrilled to discover that she was the main character, the focus of the whole adventure!  MK has remained precocious throughout the stories, from a wee one to a young lady and has the ability to make you laugh , cry and even feel some fear, all in the same chapter.  You get to the point of feeling that she is part of your family or a very dear friend  and you want to rescue her when she gets into her typical MK situations- quaint, funny, sometimes dangerous!  All of the characters are appealing, each in their own way. They are ordinary people with ordinary problems and have to deal with the crisis of the day!  The Amish faith and lifestyle shines through . Although they may have problems, the way in which they are dealt with, exhibit their faith and reassurance in God and His ability to see them through.

There are so many intertwining plots, that I can't begin to describe them.  The main one is built upon in a talented , ingenious way.  This book is  a page turner. I just couldn't wait to see what twist or turn would be encountered next........ and by whom!  Amazing though it seems,  these were totally unpredictable.  Never once did I guess where the next chapter would lead.

Suzanne is to be commended on her knowledge and depth of understanding of the Plain People.  An amazing amount of research has gone into this book in order to portray the characters and adventures in such a realistic and true way.

Laughter, tears, worry, joy!! All are encompassed in this one book.  I must say that I LOVE the humor portrayed throughout the story!!!  This is one book that I guarantee you will NOT put down until you are finished. 

A five star book, to be sure!!!! Looking forward to the next series, Suzanne!!!


About the Author:



Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of the Lancaster County Secrets series and the Stoney Ridge Seasons series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. She is also the coauthor of a new Amish children's series, The Adventures of Lily Lapp. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne is a Carol Award winner and a Christy Award finalist. She is the host of internet radio show Amish Wisdom and a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. For more information, please visit www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and connect with her on Twitter @suzannewfisher. Get Amish proverbs delivered right to your iphone or ipad! Download the Free App
  
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1 comment:

  1. Hi Karla! What a wonderful, thoughtful review of "The Lesson!" Thank you so much for encouraging others to read about the Lapp family. Just a hint of what's to come: Jimmy Fisher plays a very large role in the next series. And we'll find out what happens with Chris and M.K. Shhhhh...don't tell! So grateful to you, Karla, for many reasons! XO Suzanne

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