Christmas should certainly be a time of peace for people everywhere. That seems to be an elusive dream for most of the main characters in the book. I have never been in the same circumstances of any of them nor can I imagine being in their shoes. However, I could still relate to seeking something that feels just beyond my reach. Of course, it was easy to figure out what they needed to do but not so easy to find my own answers. Although fictional, the story was real to life. Oftentimes knowing what others should do is so simple for us while we struggle with our own decisions. I wont spoil it by telling the outcome of the various dilemmas they each faced but I will say that there are some lessons to be learned and applied in our own lives. Some might say thats being over-simplistic. I think it is actually very realistic. I recommend you read the book and keep an open mind to the lessons that are woven into the story.

Shelley Shepard Gray's books are always wonderful to read. I feel like I just revisited old friends. The Yellow Bird Inn is closed for Christmas but Beth is taking care of it while her friends are out-of-town for the Holidays. She stills cares for and remembers Chris, DEA agent. When he shows up at the door he is battered, bruised and bleeding. Beth takes care of him and his injuries. Trying to keep anyone from knowing he is there (for his safety) she makes arrangements for her mother to visit family. Why is it when you want to be left alone (yep to hide Chris) everyone decides to drop by and check on you. Beth manages a surprise for Chris on Christmas. Revisit Deborah and Jacob and find out where they spend Christmas day. No one asked me to read this book nor leave a review. Shelley has become one of my favorite authors and I have a hard time putting her books down.

Blissful sigh! We're back in Crittenden County, Kentucky with familiar characters from The Secrets of Crittenden County series that will forever hold a place in my heart. You don't need to have read the series in order to enjoy this book, but I think you'll appreciate it all the more if you have.

Gray is a master storyteller who knows how to wield a complex plot with incredible pacing and a depth of emotion. Told from multiple viewpoints, Peace brings closure to these beloved characters. And I love that each journey doesn't result in a 'perfect' peace. Gray keeps it realistic...and inspiring...by allowing her characters to find peace right where they are amidst their trials. A stunning read!

I am not yet through reading the entire book, but what I have read so for holds my interest and makes it hard to put the book down. But it's Christmastime and I have lots to do. A sweet story line and a wonderful book.

After a year of secrets and scandal, will this Amish community finally find peace under the bright promise of Christmas?

Beth Byler has a secret. Ever since she met Englischer Chris Ellis while helping out at the Yellow Bird Inn, she can't stop thinking about him. She knows a relationship could never go anywhere–Chris was working undercover in Crittenden County as a DEA agent. That meant he faced danger daily and carried a gun, making him completely unsuitable for an Amish woman like herself. But she knew he felt the attraction, too. It was the reason he left so suddenly, promising never to see her again.

Then, three days before Christmas, while Beth is taking care of the inn, Chris returns. This time, he is bleeding and in need of a place to hide. Against her better judgment, Beth takes him in and tends to his wounds. She also promises to keep his presence a secret. Before long, it becomes clear that nothing between them has changed–a relationship is inevitable. But are they ready to sacrifice everything for this chance at love?

My Review:

As with everything in life, the forbidden is what draws us to do wrong. Whether it's wrong because others think so or because it is morally wrong doesn't matter; if we are expected to never cross certain lines, than that's exactly where we want to go. The Amish and a DEA agent just won't mix, if not because of completely opposite beliefs, but because their lifestyles are inconsistent and contradictory. But Beth in our story, can't get Chris out of her mind - or heart.

Naturally, this causes a few problems. And I just have to applaud Gray for bringing us a novel so compelling that you won't want to put it down. The characters draw you into their lives from the first, and make you ache to reach through the pages and solve their problems for them. They have no recourse for their feelings, but being of such conflicting beliefs and lives makes for a stunning drama. With the beautiful backdrop of Christmastime and the outstanding writing from Gray, this is a novel that will continue to touch the hearts of those who read it.

This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.