With the underlying issue David Stoltzfus face in terms of the church, the arrival of new characters, David's overbearing mother and his two nieces, Abigail and Laura, brings a whole new set of problems, both personally and professionally.  Abigail's story to find the past in conjunction and in relation to the present takes center stage, while we continue to read on about David, the church dilemma and the effect it has on the community.  Direct and determined, Abigail with her OCD tendencies seems to me as someone who'll lose sight since she's so focused, and because of it, as a reader, I can relate to how we lose sight of what's important right in front of us. Her straightforward and relentlessness makes for some comical moments, but there's always something you can take away. For example, I now know the proper way to hand dry clothes!   Dane Glick is one sweet  and thoughtful character, reminding me of David Stoltzfus at times, and what a great match for Abigail!  Birdy is still my favorite character in the story, and though her appearance in The Quieting is limited, her presence is known, especially to David.  As those two dance their ways together, will disapproval by David's mother hinder their growth?

As pride makes a prominent theme in The Quieting, will the people and the leaders of Stoney Ridge trust God to lead the way? As leaders are voted in "office" to serve as a minister, a deacon or a bishop, they are entrusted with the hope to lead the community in faith. Yet when pride takes over, how can it be God leading? I've always admired the simplicity and focus of the Plain community, because faith plays a large role in their lives. And in this book, we read about the struggles the Plain community also encounters. Concept of free will and the greed of power takes hold, and The Quieting  seamlessly interlace each of these themes, giving readers a page turner and a lesson in choice and humility.




NOTE:  I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Revell through CelebrateLit Publicity Tours for an honest review.  All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.