An Amish artist and an arson investigator unraveling a series of mysterious barn fires form a special bond in Fall from Pride by Karen Harper. The small Amish community of Home Valley is struggling and Sarah Kauffman’s church elders give her permission to paint quilt squares on picturesque barns to draw tourists. But then one after another of the barns is burned—is it just chance or is someone targeting Sarah’s work? When arson investigator Nate MacKenzie seeks the answer, he’s stymied not only by the crimes but also by his lack of understanding of the Amish people. Turning to Sarah for help, he finds himself falling for her—and she for him, though their romance is completely forbidden. With danger plaguing the community, the two work together to put an end to the present trouble, while it appears there’s only heartache in their future. A story of wrenching personal choices is set in a locale both bucolic and exotic. Though only kisses are exchanged, Nate and Sarah’s romance feels real.
Valiant Women is a vital and engrossing attempt to correct the record and rightfully celebrate the achievements of female veterans of World War II.
