Portrait of a Sister by Laura Bradford is an Amish-inspired women’s fiction novel. Publisher: Kensington, June 2018

Katie Beiler was always the follower to her twin sister Hannah’s lead. That is until Hannah left their Amish upbringing for an English life—leaving Katie to find her own footing in a world that no longer looks as it once did . . .

Katie has always imagined her life being just like Mamm’s. It’s why she chose baptism and why she’ll soon marry Abram Zook. But ever since Hannah left, the only thing that truly makes Katie smile is the sketchpad in which she indulges her talent for drawing faces—a sin that, if discovered, could get her shunned by her family, her friends, and even Abram. Yet Katie sees her secret pastime as the only way to quiet a growing restlessness she’d just as soon ignore. That is until their Mamm’s untimely death brings Hannah back home to Pennsylvania, with a new outlook on life, a man she adores, and, soon, an invitation for Katie to visit her in New York City.

Suddenly, Katie is experiencing a freedom she’s never had, in a world she never imagined. She’s also spending time in the company of a fellow dreamer, someone who sees her as strong and brave and makes her laugh. But it’s when Hannah shows Katie’s drawings to a gallery owner that she truly finds herself at a crossroads between the only life she’s ever known and the powerful lure of an unfamiliar future.

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The more I read books by Laura Bradford, the more I am an awe of her writing talents. In her first women’s fiction tale, Laura takes us on an emotion journey of self-discovery featuring two sisters who took a different path and it is that story that is highlighted in this well-written novel.

This book quickly became a page-turner as I was immediately drawn to the story being told. The author has a way with the narrative that put me in the middle of all the action. I visualized the setting, both in Pennsylvania and New York and the contrast of simple and hectic. The dialogue and the interactions among the various characters kept me immersed in all aspects and I held my breath waiting for Katie’s decision. This was staged perfectly to give a sense of being and I liked the feeling I had when I closed the book—put warmth in my heart. Bravo Laura. Well done.