The Orchard
The Orchard by Beverly Lewis, published by Baker Publishing Group on September 6, 2022, is a contemporary fiction novel that explores the complexities of family and faith within an Amish community. Set against the backdrop of a Lancaster County orchard, the story follows Ellie Hostetler as she navigates the emotional turmoil surrounding her twin brother Evan’s enlistment in the Vietnam War. As her family grapples with their beliefs in non-resistance, Ellie finds herself torn between her feelings for her beau Menno and her growing connection with Sol Bontrager, a conscientious objector.
Readers will discover a narrative that delves into themes of love, loyalty, and the challenges of adhering to one’s values in times of crisis. The book presents a poignant look at how Ellie and her family confront uncertainty and change while maintaining their traditions. With its focus on Amish life and the impact of external conflicts on close-knit communities, The Orchard invites readers to reflect on the courage required to face an unpredictable future. This edition contains 352 pages and is written in English.
Official synopsis Publisher
“She realized there was peace right here in the midst of this heavenly sort of place, despite the unpredictable storm churning around her family.”
For generations, Ellie Hostetler’s family has tended their Lancaster County orchard, a tradition her twin brother, Evan, will someday continue. Yet when Evan’s draft number is called up in the lottery for the Vietnam War, the family is shocked to learn he has not sought conscientious objector status, despite their Old Order Amish belief in non-resistance. The faraway war that has caused so much turmoil and grief among their Englisher neighbors threatens too close to home.
As Evan departs for boot camp, Ellie confides her disappointment to Sol Bontrager, the brother of her best friend and cousin to her new beau, Menno. In contrast to Evan, Sol is a conscientious objector. Despite Ellie’s attraction to Menno, she finds herself drawn to Sol’s steady presence as they work together in the orchard. Suddenly, it feels as if everything in Ellie’s world is shifting, and the plans she held so dear seem increasingly uncertain. Can she and her family find the courage to face a future unlike any they could have imagined?
“This [book] serves as a reminder of why Lewis continues to top bestseller lists.”–Publishers Weekly
“The Orchard is a peaceful, heartwarming romance novel set amid the quiet solitude of an Amish family’s orchard during the Vietnam War.”–Foreword Reviews starred review
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