In her new Home to Hickory Hollow series, Beverly Lewis explores the allure of a simpler life through the unique story of a country singer named Amelia DeVries.
It’s a scene you could practically see Katherine Heigl playing in a romantic comedy: A twenty-something violinist who’s rather disillusioned with life and love goes on a road trip. But as she travels through the scenic Pennsylvania mountains, she suddenly finds herself wishing she’d brought that cell phone, after all, when her car breaks down.
Enter a handsome young man who saves the day…
Only difference is, the handsome young man is Amish, and that little detail is what makes Beverly Lewis’s latest novel, The Fiddler (Bethany House), so intriguing.
Hoping her readers will enjoy an authentic glimpse into the society of the Old Order Amish life, she says there are many modern applications as well.
“Like Amelia, I hope my readers will find a place to belong in their own unique settings,” Beverly shares. “A place where they’ll discover their gifts (and purpose in life), and share them with others to make a difference in our world.”
Turning the tables on herself, Beverly says she can’t help but be drawn to the beauty and simplicity of Amish life, as well as the tranquility of the farm setting.
“Although 85 percent of Lancaster County Amish no longer farm for a living, there is a covering of peace that pervades the cloistered community as a whole,” she shares. “I also find the aspect of belonging—for the ailing, the elderly, the disabled—incredibly appealing.”
As Beverly looks ahead, there will be two additional titles in the Home to Hickory Hollow series: one titled The Bridesmaid, which releases later this year in September and another slated for April 2013.
If that’s not enough to keep the popular author busy, she’s also consulting with the producers for her next TV movie, Beverly Lewis’ The Confession, for Hallmark Movie Channel.
On a slow day, however, her perfect day involves hiking through the mountains, playing the piano, making memory albums for her family and the very un-Amish activity of drinking chocolate malts with her husband in their Mustang convertible.
This article originally appeared in the July/August 2012 issue of FamilyFiction digital magazine. Subscribe for free today!