Brave, Unseen Steps

Miriams’ January Promise

Series: Amish Romance Birthday, Book 1

Written by: Tracy Fredrychowski

Publication Date: 10.14.24

Published by The Tracer Group, LLC

Genre: Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction

5 Stars!

For readers who need hope that grows brighter when the way forward isn’t clear … this story is for you.

At first, I was drawn in by the hope of a gentle Amish love story. What I found was a journey overflowing with heartfelt emotion, everyday bravery, and faith that wrestles and reaches for the light.

Miriam’s journey tugged at my heart. Watching her navigate life as her eyesight fades, while her mother’s expectations grow heavier out of fear for her precious daughter, was deeply moving. The author never shies away from showing the pain and longing beneath the surface, yet fills each scene with gentle hope. I loved the way Miriam wrestles honestly with God, whispering prayers like: “Gott, is this You? Are You showing me that where my eyes fail, You will compensate with something else? That I don’t have to be afraid?”

MJ’s character was just as compelling. His loyalty and restlessness, the push-pull of duty and longing for more, made his journey feel so real. When Miriam and MJ’s paths cross, something quiet and beautiful awakens—a longing for faith that feels personal. There’s so much tenderness in their friendship, especially as they both learn to risk disappointment and open themselves to the light God still brings. “A whisper, perhaps. A nudge. The kind that stirred her heart when she stood still long enough to notice. A reminder. That the world hadn’t gone dark yet, that even when it did, there would still be light in other places.”

I loved the honesty and courage in Miriam’s voice. She says, “I don’t believe Gott gave me this life just to watch it pass me by. I won’t settle for less than what I know I am capable of.”

The family relationships, the questions of surrender and independence, and the steady thread of faith make this so much more than a simple love story. This is a story about finding courage to walk by faith, especially when you cannot see what lies ahead.

I closed this book feeling changed and encouraged. If you love brave heroines, authentic Amish storytelling, and romance that is gentle yet deeply felt, Miriam’s January Promise is a perfect start to a new series. Very highly recommended.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.