I read this for the first time in about 15 years and was surprised at the difference between her current works and this first one written over 20 years ago. She's definitely got a different style here. In many cases she tells the reader what to think about the characters' personality traits, as opposed to her later works where she leaves us to form our own opinions about them. I was really surprised by her discussion and allusions to intimacy---very much not a thing anymore. This was the first Lewis I read and I remember being fascinated by the new-to-me Amish. For all the criticism I've given her most recent works, I've got to say I've got a more positive perspective now as I believe she's definitely improved over time. ( )

The Kindle has ongoing challenges that last for three months at a time. They track the number of books and days that you read. They also require certain categories with suggested books to read. A recent one was page to screen, and after browsing their suggestions, I decided to try out Beverly Lewis, who was born and grew up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, not far from where I grew up. Her Heritage of Lancaster County series tells the story of an Old Order Amish community located in the fictional Hickory Hollow. In The Shunning, we meet Katie Lapp and her family, friends and community members as they prepare for Katie's wedding to the church bishop, the man with ultimate authority over the community. Katie's discovery of a small, satin baby's dress changes everything. The story continues in The Confession and I am looking forward to the third book, The Reckoning.

Lewis creates an authentic picture of Old Order Amish life. Her descriptions of Lancaster County capture its landscape of rolling hills and neat farms. She obviously respects and loves the Amish people, getting beyond the stereotype to show their human struggles, even as she is critical of the strictures placed on them by their leaders that are not always Biblically based. ( )

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The Shunning (The Heritage of Lancaster County, #1) by Beverly Lewis

Set in an Amish community of Hickory Hollow Pennsylvania, twenty-two year old Katie Lapp wants a good life. She is set to marry the Bishop who is widowed, much older than her with children. She feels a bit disconnected (and is) still longing for her true love, who suffered a tragic death. Then she discovers a family secret which sets in motion events that will drastically change her life.

A fascinating story of one young woman, who just wants happiness. I was able to connect with Katie on her thoughts, emotions and feelings, I truly wanted her happy. I did enjoy reading of a different culture/religion/society than my own. This is my first Amish story, at times I was a bit angry with the community. Overall I enjoyed The Shunning and recommend to those that like Amish stories. I look forward to reading more by Beverly Lewis. ( )

Katie has tried to embrace her Amish faith and the ways of the ordnung, but it has always been a struggle for her. Just before her marriage to the bishop, she discovers some upsetting news that explains why, at least to her way of thinking. But others don’t agree, and she has been shunned for her behavior. Distraught by losing everything she knows yet still unable to fully commit to the Amish ways, she leaves her family and the only home she ever knew. Author Beverly Lewis has penned an interesting conundrum in this first book of the trilogy. The characters are quite well developed, and the problems they face because of a decades-old secret illustrates just how impossible it is to keep past actions buried. ( )