WOW! Barbara is such a wonderful author.

I haven’t actually read any of her other Amish novels but after reading this one, I will be!

I have read a story or two of hers from collaborations and they were wonderful but they could not have prepared me for what unfolded in “A Road Unknown”.

So few authors are able to capture the essence of something that is totally or even mostly foreign to them but Barbara Cameron does it beautifully.

At least, I hope so… I would hate to think that Barbara herself experienced the same things her main character in “A Road Unknown” has. But if she didn’t, you would never know it because From her masterful writing, you’re certain she has.

She brings us right into Elizabeth’s world. From the first paragraph, I was hooked. Barbara Cameron captured me and I’m certain I’m not the only one. We are immediately pulled into the story and it doesn’t let go of us until we’ve turned the last page.

It’s a great book and I am already looking forward to the next one! Of course, it doesn’t hurt that there’s an excerpt of book 2 – right there in the back of book 1.

It’s so exciting to find a wonderful new series from an author who – then becomes one of your favorites. And I have to admit, I’m excited I can go back and read more about some of the characters I’ve “met” who were already introduced in her earlier series – at least it will give me something to do while I’m waiting for book 2 in this series.

One thing I’m noticing more and more in Amish fiction is the reliance on cell-phones and characters who do not shun technology but are extremely cautious in it’s use. I used to think this was inaccurate but the more I am getting to know people in Amish communities (not fictional) and the more I read other books with this as part of the story, the more I am convinced that Amish communities are embracing cell-phone technology. And it makes sense to me when I stop and think about it too. They hold themselves apart so a cell-phone with no contract (one of those pay-by-the-month deals) would actually be better and easier than having the Englisch install phone shanties all over their community.

I love when you read a book, and get a fresh perspective on something, don’t you?

Well “A Road Unknown” is full of fresh perspectives. It gives us a look into Amish life from a perspective that most people would never even consider. It gives us a deeper feel for the difficulties that these wonderful people who live “plain” endure – and not just from their simple lives either.

And I love that it gives a whole new perspective on being a young woman in a tough situation. Amish or not, there are many girls who have been in the exact same position that Elizabeth was in and I believe this book will touch the hearts of Amish fans and non-Amish fans!

If you enjoy Amish fiction at all, do NOT miss this book!

Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. ( )

ght of how they will effect our siblings.
Together with Elizabeth, we can experience the frustration and joys of living away from a close knit family unit.
Barbara writes a delightful page turner and I learned a lot about myself, and some about others. There is no problem unique to myself!

I revieved this book free from Amy Lathrop at Litfuse Publicity Group and Abingdon Press in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own. ( )

I liked this book.

Elizabeth left her family to go start a life for herself in Paradise PA.

Great read, flowed well. ( )

The bus trip to Paradise, Pennsylvania was long and terrifying to Elizabeth Bontrager who questioned her decision to run away from her large family. She was weary of her life as the eldest of eight siblings always “needed” by her mamm to care for them. Work, work, work, with no promise of a life of her own in Goshen, Indiana. She was uncomfortable with the strangers on the bus, especially the Englischers until a young Amish man Saul Miller comes to her rescue and soothes her fears, especially when she learns he is also traveling to his home in Paradise. WOW, what a hook! Author Barbara Cameron caught my attention immediately and I kept reading in fascination.

Ms. Cameron’s story of Elizabeth is so unlike other Amish stories I have read. She presented completely different aspects to the Amish/Englischer co-existence that were thought provoking, amusing, and complicated. Elizabeth was beginning a new life, learning astounding, perplexing, and comical details about the Englisch lifestyles living with roommate Paula, who is a harmonious helpmate for Elizabeth, aiding her to understand many things about the Englischer life in Paradise. Paula is waiting the return of her soldier boyfriend from Afghanistan.

Saul Miller is on the rebound from a serious romantic relationship, and Elizabeth has not known romantic love prior to meeting Saul. Will she realize genuine love when she is confronted with the emotion? Consequently, enters Bruce, an Englischer that showers Elizabeth with compliments and attention. Is Bruce a likely candidate for romance or is he really who he seems to be? Elizabeth’s first job came too easy when Saul employed her in his family’s business. We learn that Elizabeth is gifted with a talent for sewing. She dreams of a future working with fabrics and design. Saul is patient with Elizabeth, hoping she will return his romantic feelings toward her. Ms. Cameron’s story left a new impression of Amish romance with me, and one I like immensely with respect for the challenges 20 year old Elizabeth faced and overcame. There is no question that God was nearby through His Holy Spirit – always a present help.

A Road Unknown speaks of the many pathways in life that each individual follows. Skillfully written lexes specific in particulars about the Amish culture in today’s world embellishes Barbara Cameron’s lovely story of a young woman’s prayers being blessed with answers by God. Elizabeth discovers surprising findings of unknown family, new friends, and love in Paradise. Paradise is not lost and Elizabeth’s future is full of promise in Paradise. Ms. Cameron brilliantly ended the story at the perfect time, leaving this reader wanting more. At least I hope she intends a sequel to A Road Unknown so we can learn of God’s plans for the residents of Paradise….the one here on earth that is.

A Road Unknown by Barbara Cameron was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review. ( )

What is there to do, when your growing up and life is passing you by? You cannot complain, you must honor your parents. You spend your time taking care of little ones, you are the oldest in the family of eight children.
This is the reality of the world that Elizabeth Bontrager lives in. So what does she do?? What you would expect anyone who is an adult and overwhelmed would do...she runs away!
We follower her and her experiences with freedom. She could go either way...wild, or keep her faith! You will love some of her experiences in the kitchen..need dishes washed?? Ha Ha!!
I loved her room mate, she wasn't what I was expecting. I thought she would be encouraging her to leave her faith. I also enjoyed Saul, and the community. Made me want to move there! There is sure a lot happening here, and Elizabeth does play a big part.
Will she give up and move back? Or will she leave and become English? Or is there something all together else in store for her. Enjoy being absorbed into this book, and hope you love your time here, as I did!

I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review. ( )