Book Review: The Promise of Easter by Marta Perry

THE PROMISE OF EASTER by Marta Perry
SERIES: An Amish Holiday #2
GENRE: Inspirational Contemporary/Amish Romance
PUBLISHER: Berkley
RELEASE DATE: February 7, 2023
PAGES: 269

As Promise Glen prepares for the Easter season, one woman discovers that forgiveness is freedom—and maybe forever after.

Anna Stoltzfus lives a quiet but fulfilling life in Promise Glen. Though she lost her beloved brother, James, in a tragic accident, her family is supportive and close-knit, and her job as a cherished teacher at the Orchard Hill Amish School fills her heart with joy each day. Anna knows one day she’ll find someone she can love and marry, but she’s perfectly happy with the life she created. Anna’s comfort is quickly dashed, however, when the man Anna deemed responsible for James’s death returns to the Amish community—Matthew King.

Forgiveness is at the heart of being Amish, and no one else blames Matthew; his grief and pain over losing his dear friend are obvious. Still, no matter how she tries, Anna can’t let go of the reckless night that ended her brother’s life so soon. The ache had been more tolerable after Matthew left Promise Glen, but now, not only has he returned, but Anna’s father accepts Matthew’s offer to work on their farm.

As the preparation for Easter begins, Anna’s regular contact with Matthew introduces her to a man far different than the boy she knew before. Perhaps the season of solemn reflection and joyous remembrance might be exactly what they both need to find forgiveness for the past for a hopeful future.…

Other Books In This Series

Other Books Set in the Same Universe

Marta Perry’s books are always a delightful way to spend an afternoon or a weekend, and The Promise of Easter is no exception. I especially love this Promise Glen setting, which we’ve had the joy of visiting on the pages for several books in the Amish Holiday series and The Promise Glen series just before it. There’s something so cozy about Promise Glen and, even though the community is not without its problems or sins, relatable characters and heartwarming plots abound nonetheless. Don’t worry, though, if you haven’t read the others; it works just fine as a standalone title.

Matthew King has returned home to Promise Glen after an extended absence, and he feels a bit like the prodigal son with the shadow of his best friend’s death still looming over his shoulder. And while most everyone welcomes him back with open arms, Anna Stoltzfus still blames him for her brother’s tragic accident. The more time they spend together, however, the more he desperately wants her forgiveness – and her love. I really enjoyed meeting Anna and Matthew. Their characters were nicely layered, and while they had obstacles (both internal and external) to work through it was never overly dramatic. Instead, as readers move through these pages, they will feel the same stirrings of hope that the first signs of Spring bring to us – the promise of new life and restoration lingering between the lines. Not only for Matt and Anna but also for a hurting little family in need of grace.

Bottom Line: The Promise of Easter addresses several meaningful themes, including survivor’s guilt, PTSD, depression, faith and forgiveness. Yet Perry does this with a tender touch, never making the tone too heavy or the solutions too trite. Readers will fall in love with Matt, Anna, their families and their community, and you’ll close the book with a smile in your heart. An uplifting romance set during a season when new life, grace, and redemption are contemplated and celebrated. Looking forward to book 3!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

My Rating: 4 stars / loved it!

KissingBook Level: 3 / may forget to breathe on occasion

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Marta Perry is the author of more than seventy inspirational romance novels, including the Promise Glen series, the Pleasant Valley series, and the Keepers of the Promise trilogy. Learn more online at martaperry.com.

What about you? What makes you want to read The Promise of Easter by Marta Perry?