The Wish {Review]

When Gloria Gingrich and her family mysteriously leave their home in Lancaster County, Leona deeply mourns her best friend.  Gloria and her family filled a special place in Leona's heart, becoming more like family than neighbors.  But as Gloria's father is suddenly expelled from the church, the Gingerichs pack up their home and disappear.  

Until... 

Three years later, Leona receives a letter from Gloria, desperate to reconnect.  Will Leona take a risk going against church leadership to reach out?  Will her deepest wish come true?  And who else has a true wish that's waiting to be revealed?

Beverly Lewis builds a complex story.  Leona and Gloria's friendship transcends time and religious lines, and yet in an Amish community, the lines of religion and family are very tight.  That makes this a tough storyline to navigate.  Lewis has to be very conscious of her character's upbringing and still bring a lot of humanity to both Leona and Gloria.  So while the storyline was somewhat predictable (with a few surprises), it was the characters that kept it interesting.  Lewis' ability to develop great characters continues and that's what saves The Wish.

Bottom line: If the library has a copy or there's a friend you can borrow this book from, pick it up.  It's a relaxing read  and a good story about friendship.  But if you're picking up your own copy, buy this one used.  

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.