The Quieting

Fisher's deliciously heartwarming contemporary Amish romance, the second in the Bishop's Family series (after The Imposter), picks up a few months after the first left off and is told from a variety of viewpoints. Amish bishop David Stoltzfus is taking care of a houseful of his relatives' children and a congregation that is quietly being rocked by scandal. With so much in disarray, the last thing he wants is for his mother and two nieces showing up for an unexpected, indefinite visit. While dealing with his mother's managing ways and her desperation to see everyone in her family happily married to acceptable people, David has to relearn how to listen attentively to the word of God in his heart as he struggles to do what is best for his community. Family allegiances are pulled in opposite directions when the son of David's congregational rival expresses interest in his niece, Abigail. This fascinating glimpse into a closed culture explores the depth and breadth of its members' commonalities and differences. The deftly written tale of life, love, and faith is filled with a delightful cast of characters whose stories intertwine with David's to entertain the reader. Agent: Joyce Hart, Hartline Literary. (May)