My The Promise Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
The Promise by Patricia Davids is a clean, wholesome Amish romance and the third book in the Amish of Cedar Grove series. The story focuses on Levi Raber, who has no interest in marriage. When his mother threatens to deed the family farm to whichever son marries first, Levi hatches a plan—he fakes a courtship with Sarah Yoder to nudge his more competitive brother, Isaac, toward settling down. Sarah, on the other hand, has always dreamed of starting a family and believes Isaac might be her chance. But as the pretend relationship develops, new feelings rise between Levi and Sarah. Surrounded by family obligations, small-town traditions, and horses to care for, Levi and Sarah have to figure out if their connection is just make-believe or something much more real. The book is about unexpected second chances, the strength of faith, and what it means to find your place in your community and in someone’s heart.
Why I Love This Book
I love how gentle and heartfelt this story is from the first page. The simple Amish setting feels comforting, but what really stands out is the way both Levi and Sarah come alive with real, honest doubts and dreams. The fake dating trope is fun, but it never gets silly—the reasons behind each character’s choices make sense and add depth. I enjoyed the strong sense of community in Cedar Grove and the details about daily Amish life, from farm chores to family meals. The side characters and family subplots make the world feel full without distracting from the romance. I found myself smiling at the sweet, sometimes awkward moments between Levi and Sarah as their feelings shift from obligation to genuine affection. And I appreciate how faith is woven into the story—it guides the characters through loss, hope, and big decisions, always gently. The warmth and subtle humor kept things light, and I finished the book feeling peaceful and happy for everyone involved.
Who Will Like This Book
If you love wholesome, faith-based romances and gentle love stories set in Amish communities, this book is for you. Fans of fake-relationship, slow burn, and second chance tropes will enjoy the journey. There’s no heat or mature content, just sweet, slow-building affection. Readers looking for strong themes of family, forgiveness, and community will feel at home here. If you want a story that’s kind, hopeful, and easy to relax into—without heavy drama or angst—you’ll want to add this one to your list.
⚠️ Trigger warning: The book is gentle and clean, but there are moments of loss and a few difficult family issues. Everything is handled softly, never graphic or distressing.
Tagged As
Amish romance, clean romance, wholesome, faith-based, fake relationship, small town, family saga, second chances, slow burn, closed-door romance, farm life, gentle hero, sweet heroine, horse racing, sisters, brothers, community spirit, inspirational, HEA, series, Cedar Grove, no mature content
Steam Level
There’s no explicit content at all—just shy touches, sweet moments, and respectful affection. The heart of the story is emotional growth and genuine connection, making it perfect for anyone who wants their romance completely wholesome.
This novel is #6 on our list of Top 10 Clean Romance Novels. View the full list.