Marian Baay reviews PROMISE TO RETURN by Elizabeth Byler Younts

Promise to Return

PROMISE TO RETURN

By Elizabeth Byler Younts

Howard Books, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

1943

Miriam Coblentz is a young Amish woman who wants nothing more than to be obedient to her church, get married to the love of her life, Henry Mast, and to become a mother. However, shortly before their marriage, Henry is drafted and everything becomes complicated.

At first Henry is serving as a conscientious objector at a Civilian Public Service camp, but during this time there he learns how bad the war in Europe really is and he feels God’s call to enlist. Before his training starts, he comes home on leave and tells his family and Miriam that he’s going to fight in the war. His family is hurt and doesn’t want him to stay under their roof anymore. Miriam doesn’t understand why Henry made this decision. His attitude towards God seems to be changing as well—he so easily talks about praying to God and hearing His voice.

Miriam is so confused—is she going to wait for Henry’s return? And when he comes back, will he confess to the church he was wrong? He seems to be so sure he was right to enlist and go to war.

Her childhood friend, Eli, is trying to win her hand while Henry is away. Although Miriam likes him, she doesn’t love him, but he can offer her the life she has always wanted. Is she going to wait for Henry, or does she give in to her longing to get married in the church; to become a wife and mother, like she has always dreamed?

Against her parents’ wishes, Miriam frequently writes to Henry and she anticipates his return letters, but then months go by without a word from him… Is he still alive? Then one day Henry’s mother and sister visit with news from Europe…

One of the best books I have read this year! This author knows how to keep the suspense high and keep the reader guessing. Miriam’s struggle was well done and I really felt for her. I have shed several tears while reading this fantastic book, so I advise keeping the tissues handy. I’m going to keep my eye on this author and I’m surely going to read the next book in this series.

*Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.*

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GIVEAWAYS: This week Elizabeth will give away a SIGNED copy of her new book and we at OWG are giving away ebook or paperback of either of her books—choice by winner. (Note: International readers ebook only.) 

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