When their father dies, Elizabeth and her younger siblings escape an abusive neighbor by taking refuge with the Shakers at Harmony Hill. The refuge turns into a painful prison when her sister fails to conform to the rules, Elizabeth's desire for a husband and family increase, and she falls in love with a Shaker Believer. I had visited a Shaker community in New Hampshire. Their buildings and furniture exemplify the beauty of simplicity. This author populates the village with very human characters: a rigid elder, a wise carpenter, an angry eldress, and shows the impact of Shaker rules on individuals. Shakers had to love everyone equally; which meant no one received love. No one was hugged or allowed to have a special relationship with another. Bending the rules, walking off the path, or deviating from the schedule earned severe reprimands. Freedom of the Spirit was only allowed within the worship service. "The Believer" shows the downside of Shaker life. I really enjoyed this Christian Fiction novel. I have never read Ann Gabhart's novels but will definitely look forward to reading her other books. This is the story of a 20 year old who, upon the unexpected death of their beloved father, must now provide for her a younger brother and sister. Her father often told her stories of the Shaker community in the neighboring county. Elizabeth takes herself and siblings to the safety of the Shakers. Reading this book brings out the beliefs of the Shakers and how different their ideals are to Christian beliefs ... such as it is sin to marry and Shakers are therefore celebate. There are many rules to ensure all Shakers are "same", etc. The rules and religious belief different than their Christian upbringing cause issues. I read the book in two days and could not put it down!
What do You think about The Believer (2009)?
interesting abou the Shaker religion, but too much of a romance novel for my liking
—tagoant
I learned alot about the Shaker religion from this book.
—gbooi
