Somewhere To Belong

Johanna Ilg loves Amana, the plain community that she has always lived in. Though she longs to visit the outside world, she finds fulfillment by serving her people and her God. When the Schumacher family moves from Chicago to Amana, Johanna is given the responsibility of helping Berta Schumacher learn her responsibilities. The problem is that Berta does not want to be in Amana and she certainly does not want to work in a kitchen all day. Despite difficult moments, a unique friendship is formed between the two young women. When these young women discover family secrets that threaten to change their entire lives, they will only find restoration by pursuing the will of God. But will either of them be willing to face the difficult challenge of forgiveness?

I enjoyed this book, but it was one I would suggest renting from the library before buying. It was okay, but some things were confusing. I don't think Amana is an Amish village, but it has a lot of plain living characteristics. If you really like Amish stories, then you will probably love this book. The plot has a sweet love story woven within it, but focuses mostly on the lives of the two young women.
I suspect that there may be a sequel featuring more of Berta's life. The ending was very open. :)
 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."