Unbreakable by Nancy Mehl, Book review & GIVEAWAY

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (February 1, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0764209284

Synopsis:

Gentle and unassuming, Hope Kauffman has never been one to question the traditions of her Mennonite upbringing. She quietly helps her father run Kingdom Quilts and has agreed to the betrothal he arranged for her with the devout but shy Ebbie Miller.

Despite the attempts of Hope and other Kingdom residents to maintain the status quo, changes have already begun to stir in the small Mennonite town. The handsome and charismatic Jonathon Wiese is the leader of the move to reform, while Ebbie insists Kingdom must remain true to its foundation. When Hope's safety is threatened by a mysterious outsider, she can't help but question what she's always been taught about the Mennonite tradition of nonviolence.

As it swiftly becomes apparent the threat Hope faced is only the beginning, the town that's always stood so strong finds itself divided. With tensions high and their lives endangered by an unknown enemy, will Hope and the people of Kingdom allow fear and division to break them or will they draw on the strength of the God they serve?

Link to purchase this novel:

http://ow.ly/huFtI 

My thoughts:

Combining mystery with a touch of romance against the Old Order Mennonite tenet of non violence, 'Unbreakable' begins with the news churches nearby the town of Kingdom are being targeted by arson. 
With the safety of their members becoming a real concern, a group of individuals, both Mennonites and English, decide to patrol the roads leading to the town. 
Almost immediately there is a definite split betwixt those who will carry a weapon and those who refuse, the possibility of any violence, against their faith. 

Against all this, we have Hope Kauffman whose feelings toward her intended are so confused both parties decided to end their betrothal. Enters her new suitor, Jonathan, whom unlike his brethren, believes it is time to take action and protect their town however the cost. 

Add to all this, a caustic, uncaring Sheriff, escalating threats from a mysterious source, a burning church and much confusion about when enough is enough, and you have an idea of what the author alludes in her plot.

At times very slow, 'Unbreakable', Book 2 of the 'Road to Kingdom' series truthfully was not the entertainment I sought, although it brought to light no one is immune to doubts when it comes to beliefs. The rationale process behind this portion of the plot was perhaps tedious but never the less realistic.
And keeping in mind the very real threats spoken of, not to be ignored in these troubled times,  the author's earnest intention included, it seems, a wish for us to reflect at our (all together too quick) reactions when provoked. I cannot say for sure in which group I belong...

3 stars!


About the Author:

Nancy Mehl is the author of twelve books and received the ACFW Mystery Book of the Year Award in 2009. She has a background in social work and is a member of ACFW and RWA. 

For additional information please visit her website (HERE)

AND NOW FOR NANCY MEHL'S GIVEAWAY!

Celebrate the release of Unbreakable with Nancy Mehl by entering her Kindle Fire Giveaway and RSVPing to the March 5th Author Chat Party on Facebook!

One fortunate winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Books one and two in Nancy's Road to Kingdom series (Inescapable and Unbreakable)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 4th.

Winner will be announced at the "Unbreakable" Author Chat Party on March 5th. Connect with Nancy, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books, and fun Mennonite-themed giveaways.

Grab your copy of Unbreakable and join Nancy on the evening of the March 5th for a chance to connect with Nancy and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 5th!

I received this book free from LITFUSE as part of their blogger review program. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.