The Outcast

*Library Journals Best Books 2013**Christian Manifestos 2013 Award Winner for Excellence in Amish Fiction**World Magazines Notable Books**2013/2014 Christian Retailings Best Finalist* *2014 INSPY Shortlist Author*Raised in an Old Order Mennonite community, Rachel Stoltzfus is a strong-willed single woman, content living apart from mainstream society until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Refusing to repent and name the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most. She is eventually coerced into leaving by her brother-in-law, the bishop. But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachels baby is at stake, however, choices must be made that will bring the darkness to light, forever changing the lives of those who call Copper Creek home. Review "I have to say Ive never been a fan of the Amish fiction genre. Im still not. But Jolina Petersheims The Outcast was the only Amish fiction book Ive ever read from cover to cover." ~Ira Wagler, NYT Bestselling Author of Growing Up Amish  "A story of hypocrisy and redemption in a secretive community that will keep the reader turning the pages." ~Michael Morris, award winning author of Man In The Blue Moon "The Outcast is an insightful look at the complexities of living in community while living out ones faith." ~Karen Spears Zacharias, author of Mother of Rain"A page-turning saga, The Outcast is a must read for anyone who has ever been judged by the shallow hearts of man." ~Julie Cantrell, New York Times Bestselling Author of Into the Free "Surprising and satisfying, Jolina Petersheims epic first novel of love and betrayal, forgiveness and redemption will resonate with people from every corner of life." ~River Jordan, Nationally Bestselling Author of Praying for Strangers"Petersheims emotional story leaves readers intrigued by the purity or Rachels strong will, resilience, and loyalty." ~Publishers Weekly "Petersheim sets a retelling of a classic piece of literature against the backdrop of bonnets and buggies...revealing the power of confession and Gods willingness to forgive and restore." ~CBA Retailers + Resources"Quickly paced, beautifully written, flawlessly executed, I could not put this book down." ~SheReads, The Blog Network Recommends "Petersheims fiction debut is a modern version of The Scarlet Letter. The storyline runs smoothly throughout, with twists that readers will enjoy. The authors Plain background shines in this moving novel." ~RT Reviews, 4 Stars"Jolina Petersheims riveting portrait of life behind this curious and oft times mysterious world captivated me from the first word and left me breathless for more." ~Lisa Patton, Bestselling Author of Whistlin Dixie in a Noreaster"Dont miss this vivid, lyrical journey into a mysterious world that many view from the outside, but few understand as intimately as Jolina Petersheim." ~Lisa Wingate, National Bestselling and Award-winning author of Blue Moon Bay and Firefly Island Review A must-read that will draw you into a secretive world of sin and senselessness and leave you with the hope of one set free (Julie Cantrel, NYT bestselling author of Into the Free) From the Back Cover Rachel Stoltzfus never imagined she?d be the talk of her Old Order Mennonite community until whispers stir the moment her belly swells with new life. Unmarried and refusing to repent by naming the partner in her sin, Rachel feels the wrath of the religious sect as she is shunned by those she loves most and eventually forced to leave?driven out by her twin sister?s husband, the bishop.But secrets run deep in this cloistered community, and the bishop is hiding some of his own, threatening his conscience and his very soul. When the life of Rachel?s baby is at stake, choices must be made that