The Sound of Sleigh Bells

I mentioned before how much I've been enjoying Amish fiction lately. I think it has to do with having recently read Amish Peace. In any case, I did enjoy The Sound of Sleigh Bells by Cindy Woodsmall. It was a poignant holiday story, and I particularly enjoyed getting an inside glimpse of an Amish store. Here's a little more about the story from the publisher (who sent me a free copy of the book to review).

Beth Hertzler works alongside her beloved Aunt Lizzy in their dry goods store, and serving as contact of sorts between Amish craftsmen and Englischers who want to sell the Plain people’s wares. But remorse and loneliness still echo in her heart everyday as she still wears the dark garb, indicating mourning of her fiancé. When she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth’s soul responds and she wants to help the unknown artist find homes for his work–including Lizzy’s dry goods store. But she doesn’t know if her bishop will approve of the gorgeous carving or deem it idolatry.

Lizzy sees the changes in her niece when Beth shows her the woodworking, and after Lizzy hunts down Jonah, the artist, she is all the more determined that Beth meets this man with the hands that create healing art. But it’s not that simple–will Lizzy’s elaborate plan to reintroduce her niece to love work? Will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she’s always dreamed of and a second chance at real love–or just more heartbreak?

I also have an extra copy of this book to give away. It would make a great Christmas present! Leave a comment on this post before November 1, 2009 for your chance to win. (US addresses only, please.)