Books & Spoons Review for AMISH REFUGE by Debby Giusti

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT
Miriam Miller barely escapes the ruthless attacker that killed her mother and kidnapped her sister. Running deeper into the woods, she's running out of hope...until she falls into the arms of an unlikely bodyguard--a peaceful Amish farmer.
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Something about Abram Zook inspires her trust, but even in bucolic Willkommen, Georgia, Miriam faces danger. Both from the men pursuing her and from her growing feelings for the caring--though guarded--widower who protects her.

​Because if she falls for Abram she'll have to embrace his Amish faith as her own--or lose him.

With each minute, her abductor creeps closer, pushing Miriam to an inevitable choice: stay and risk her heart...or leave and risk her life.

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One of the scariest, most intense starts to a story I have read in a while, that had my heart rate up. The tension level stays elevated, the fear is tangible and concrete in the tale all the way to the end. 
I have not read many Amish stories, and the culture and religion fascinated my mind. I enjoyed the tidbits of the information shared, as well as the strong faith Abram had in God, his belief on God's guidance in his life. 
Abram Zook is a great complex hero. His past mistakes are weighing heavily on his mind and the battles to do the right thing, to forgive himself, to swallow his pride, to accept his growing feelings towards Miriam Miller were his constant companions. He is protective, kind-hearted man, who wants to follow the old traditions, to honor his family, and keep his faith. 
Miriam Miller had barely escaped a great danger. She had witnessed the murder of her mother, her sisters are missing, and even before the danger they got in, her whole life seemed to be in trouble and upheaval. Miriam had good intentions, she didn't want to put anyone else in danger while not sure who to trust. But she didn't take any advice and made grave mistakes, putting people around her in even more trouble. Her stubbornness not to hear anyone else, not to think things through before acting was frustrating, say the least. 
I liked the story, both the suspense and the romance side of it had fascinating elements and events. The growing feelings between Miriam and Abram develop fast but are believable and satisfying. 
I wish there would have been a bit more about the investigation, that the crimes committed would have come to more of a conclusion. I understand this is part of the series, and there isn't a cliffhanger per se, yet I was left wondering about what, why, how, who - just many unwrapped or unexplained elements in the crimes and investigation. So I am conflicted with this story because I really enjoyed it, the characters were intriguing and their faith in God was unwavering. The danger and fear in the air were toe-curling and crimes committed were savage.  But all the questions left open in my mind at the end is what took the score down, as well as the stubborn and foolish actions of Miriam when facing dangerous situations. 
~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side  

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KOBO

B&N

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