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The Patient OneShelley Shepard Gray

Christian contemporary Amish romancek

The Patient One

by Shelley Shepard Gray

Book 1 of the Walnut Creek series

304 pages · First published 2019

When Andy Warner's death by suicide reunites seven childhood friends in Walnut Creek, Ohio, they vow to rebuild the bonds that once connected them despite their Amish, Mennonite, and English backgrounds. Marie Hartman leaves her successful life in Cleveland and returns home, hoping to reconnect with her friends—and especially John Byler, the Amish man she has secretly loved for years. John has feelings for Marie, too, but their different religious backgrounds threaten to keep them apart, and pursuing a future together could cost him his place in the Amish community. As the friends struggle with grief, guilt, and the changes adulthood has brought, Marie and John must decide whether their love is worth challenging the expectations surrounding them. Readers who enjoy friends-to-lovers romance, found family, and hopeful stories of healing will appreciate this heartfelt exploration of faith, friendship, and second chances.

Paired for this story

Sagebrush Black Tea + Irish Coffee

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At a glance

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Spice1 of 5
Suspense1 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Death by suicide of a close friend, including reference to the method (hanging); grief, guilt, and emotional distress following the loss; recurring distressing dreams and references to past therapy; religious and family pressure surrounding romantic relationships; potential rejection or exclusion from a religious community; mild romantic affection.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Sagebrush Black Tea

Earthy sage and honeyed black tea reflect the quiet comfort of old friendships renewed in Walnut Creek.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
  2. Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
  3. Glassware: Mug.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Irish Coffee

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Warm coffee, whiskey, and cream offer a comforting companion to Marie and John's story of rekindled friendship, difficult choices, and healing after loss.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Warm a heatproof glass with hot water, then empty it. Add coffee and sugar; stir until dissolved. Stir in whiskey. Gently float lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon onto the coffee.
  2. Glassware: Heatproof Irish coffee glass or mug.

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