The Bookseller’s Promise

Wiseman (A Season of Change) kicks off her Amish Bookstore series with a heartfelt inspirational romance. Indiana Amish bookseller Jake Lantz realizes that he is in love with his assistant, Eva Graber, but another man wants to marry her. Jake feels he needs to step aside, not realizing that Eva’s been waiting for Jake to notice her. Meanwhile, the biggest client of Texan and rare book dealer Yvonne Wilson has sent her in search of a title from 1875 that is rumored to heal those who are spiritually lost. Her quest leads her to Jake, who, as it happens, Jake owns a copy of the book and promised his grandfather he would never sell it. Yvonne, though, decides to stay in town as long as it takes to convince him to change his mind. After Yvonne “borrows” the book, she reconsiders some long-held beliefs about the world, herself, and death—beliefs that will take on a new importance when tragedy strikes. Yvonne and Eva also become friends, setting Yvonne on another mission, this time to help Jake and Eva act on their feelings for each other. Wiseman skillfully interweaves the romantic and conversion story lines and has an easy hand juggling her ensemble cast. Anyone who has ever known the power of a book to change lives will appreciate this tale of love and faith. (Apr.)