The Protective One

Shelley Shepard Gray

Jan 2020 · Walnut Creek Series, The Book 3 · Sold by Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray weaves a moving and unforgettable exploration of love and friendship in this “slow-burning, enjoyable romance [with] a poignant message about the importance of community, compassion, and doing what’s right rather than what’s easy” (Publishers Weekly).

The tragic and untimely death of an old friend has made Elizabeth Anne rethink not only her priorities but also her courtship with David, her longtime neighbor and suitor. Though he’s Mennonite like herself and has her parents’ approval, she feels that a spark is missing. Desperate for a change, she breaks things off—wondering if, perhaps, she’s the one who’s missing a spark.

When her family becomes upset with her decision, E.A. turns to her friends for support. One of them is Will, a man with a good heart who has always been there for her. As the two bond over their shared struggle to navigate a future that everyone else seems to have figured out, they are surprised to realize that they have feelings for each other.

But E.A.’s world takes a sudden turn when she realizes that she’s not the only one struggling—Marta, one of her sewing students, is in desperate need of protection. With the aid of Will and several other friends, E.A. begins a journey that is more difficult and rewarding than she could have ever imagined...one that ultimately enables her to find everything she’s been searching for.

“Gray deftly weaves the threads of abuse, friendship, love, and faith into a thought-provoking, emotional story” (Patricia Davids, USA TODAY bestselling author) that is sure to appeal to both new and longtime fans.

Ratings and reviews

The Protective One by Shelley Shepard Gray is the third book in The Walnut Creek Series. Each one can be read on its own, but you will be missing out on some heartwarming stories. Elizabeth Anne or E.A. as she prefers to be called, is such a kind, patient woman. She is one of the Eight and one of the few remaining single members. E.A. was Marie’s maid of honor at her recent wedding to John. E.A. is feeling at loose ends. She is not happy with her job at Sew & Tell and her beau, David is a little odd. After some horrible remarks from David on the death of her friend, Andy, E.A. breaks off their relationship. After speaking with Will Kurtz, E.A. learns that he is also feeling restless. They start spending time together and they soon realize that their friendship is turning into something more. Will Kurtz is an Amishman who works at the local R.V. factory. He feels that his life is standing still while others are getting married and moving ahead in their jobs. I like how the relationship developed between E.A. and Will. They are cute together. There is humor in the story especially during a scene involving David (he is an odd duck). The Protective One also delves into the dark topics of spousal abuse and stalking. I thought Shelley Shepard Gray did a wonderful job at addressing such difficult subjects. Her portrayal of Marta was realistic. Marta Miner has been married for ten years to an abuser. She has decided it is time to break free, but Marta must wait for the right moment. Marta came up with a plan and then set about executing it. I admired Marta for her bravery. The ending was just wonderful. I appreciated that we get updates on the other members of the Eight. We get to see how the other couples are faring in their relationships. Faith is intertwined throughout the book. As we see, prayer can be a powerful tool. The Protective One is a special story that will linger with you long after you finish it. I cannot wait to read The Trustworthy One. The Protective One is a touching novel with friendship, love, and faith.

About the author

A practicing Lutheran, Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of more than one hundred novels, translated into multiple languages. In her years of researching the Amish community, she depends on her Amish friends for gossip, advice, and cinnamon rolls. She lives in Colorado with her family and writes full time.