Sister's of the Quilt by Cindy Woodsmall

It is time for me to add some more book reviews. I've been reading and reading and reading, and not reviewing! Whoops!

Title: Sister’s of the Quilt by Cindy Woodsmall

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis:

When the Heart Cries

Her life among her Amish community brutally interrupted, seventeen-year-old Hannah Lapp faces questions neither family, nor fiancé, nor even faith can easily answer. The first book in the Sisters of the Quilt series, When the Heart Cries will ignite a broader understanding of others’ beliefs and a God-given strength to deal with pain we all experience.

When the Morning Comes

Rejected by those she loves, Hannah Lapp leaves her Amish community and seeks refuge in the world outside, leaving her family and friends to wrestle with the painful truths that emerge in the wake of her disappearance. As she struggles to find her place in the confusing Englischer world, her community deals with the turbulent aftermath of her departure.

When the Soul Mends

Hoping to help her sister, Hannah Lapp reluctantly returns to the Old Order Amish community she fled in disgrace more than two years earlier. When hidden truths are revealed about her former fiancé, she must choose whether to return to the Plain life or to the Englischer man who adores her in this captivating conclusion to the Sisters of the Quilt series.

Date Published: 2010

Acquired: Library

Reading this trilogy was a long time in coming. I checked it out from the library once, ended up taking it back without having read it...checked it out again about two months ago and renewed it three times before I finally applied myself (the reviews I've read on this book simply do not do it justice) rather than reading other things.

I finished reading "Sisters of the Quilt" after a three day marathon. I enjoyed it more than I can say. As far as typical Amish fiction goes, it brought such depth and true novel-writing to the table. It's probably the "noveliest" book series I've read in Amish fiction. It did so much more than tell a simple love story. I really connected with these characters and was very sorry to leave them behind. I got emotionally involved with Hannah’s sister’s mental health issues, with Hannah’s struggles in and out of the Amish community. I was grieved when she was judged so wrongly by her family and friends and I rejoiced with her as she started over, found her aunt, and like every reader, I was so very happy when she found her way back home again and was able to start over with Paul.  

This story just felt a bit more mature and grown up in comparison to so many I have read. Woodsmall’s characters have layer and depth and she did a wonderful, patient, and complete job telling such a rich and complicated story. I’m even more pleased that I enjoyed her so much because she is a fellow Georgian. J

Her story-telling is exceptional and I'm so thankful that I finally opened this book and devoured it appropriately. I read so much that I rarely have a problem setting down a finished book and snatching up another. However, it took me a while to come back out of Hannah and Paul's lives and begin functioning in the present again! For me, that’s a sign of an exceptional story.

A Home at Trail's End by Melody Carlson

Where I got this book: Through Netgalley - Harvest House Publishers

Rating: ★★★★☆

Synopsis: 

Bestselling author Melody Carlson (more than 5 million books sold) continues her Homeward on the Oregon Trail series with this third and final adventure.

Elizabeth Martin and her two children have finally reached the Oregon Country. But Eli Kincade, the wagon train scout who captured her heart, has chosen to continue life on the trail. As other pioneer families begin building new homes, Elizabeth has never felt more alone.

However, when Eli unexpectedly returns, confesses his love, and proposes, Elizabeth accepts with her family’s blessing.

A community begins to take shape, but not without growing pains. As an alternative to the local minister’s fiery sermons, Elizabeth’s father begins to preach at home, raising the ire of some. Racial biases arise against Brady, Elizabeth’s African-American hired hand. Eli’s warm sentiments toward Indians also raises concerns.

Can Elizabeth and her family overcome these differences and begin a legacy of reconciliation and love?

About This Series: The Homeward on the Oregon Trail series brings to life the challenges a young widow faces as she journeys west, settles her family in the Pacific Northwest, and helps create a new community among strong-willed and diverse pioneers.  (Netgalley)

Year Published: July 1, 2013

My Review: This book is a hopeful tale of a modern minded heroine living long before her time. I really enjoyed the end of Elizabeth's story. In some ways I did feel a bit late to the party since I haven't read the first two books, but Melody Carlson does a pretty good job of catching the reader up without taking us aside and providing a summary. Instead she weaves it back into the story into a way that feels really natural. I appreciated that and I appreciated a nice story I could immerse myself in.

I love to read pioneer stories because they do a great deal to remind me of how cushy and convenient my life is in comparison to our American ancestors. To read about Elizabeth and her friends being excited over real windows and ovens makes you think of how many windows your own house is, and how many luxuries you enjoy that is above and beyond what is strictly necessary.

I really liked getting to know these characters, and I even really appreciated some of the conflicts that the characters faced - like Miranda and Elizabeth quarreling over wedding dates. One of the reasons I so enjoy reading Christian fiction is because I feel like we often get subtle life lessons that can be both relative and instructive. How does one stay in peace when someone challenges them? How does one stand their ground without being insulting or combative? I like seeing those examples played out because it encourages me to do better with my own trials of life. I don't think there can ever be too much positive reinforcement when it comes to Christian behavior, so while in regular fiction I typically groan and dread when characters quarrel because it usually ends in overreaction and extended periods of anger, like this book, it shows how friends can have their differences and end in kindness without hyperbole.

I appreciated Elizabeth's unbelievable kindness to both African-American and Native American friends in this time period. While other authors typically shy away or even villainize "Indians" I applaud Carlson for incorporating them and doing a good job to construct opposition and tolerance by her characters. I know there's much more story to be had here with the people of Riverside and wouldn't be at all surprised to see this story continued in some fashion.

This was a really good read and it definitely makes me want to pick up the first two books in the series. Thanks as always, for letting me read, I loved it!

-Casey

Love Still Stands by Kelly Irvin

Where I got this book: Through Netgalley - Harvest House Publishers

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis: Readers of Kelly Irvin’s Bliss Creek Amish novels will be overjoyed to discover her new series for lovers of Amish fiction: The New Hope Amish. In the first installment, Love Still Stands, a group of dedicated families leaves Bliss Creek to establish a new community in Missouri. Among them is Bethel Graber, a beautiful young woman with a passion for teaching. But after being disabled in a terrible accident, overseeing a classroom is out of the question…and romance seems a long-lost dream.

Bethel begins physical therapy, determined to make a fresh start. But that won’t be easy in the town of New Hope, where the locals seem anything but eager to welcome their new Amish neighbors. Amid growing intimidation from the community, Bethel must find the strength to face her many challenges and the faith to believe that God still has a plan—and a love—for her life.  (Netgalley)

Year Published: September 1, 2013

My review:

This is one of the most enjoyable Amish fictions I've read in a while. Irvin has really done a good job here with bringing these characters to life! The challenges and arguments that they had left me feeling frustrated, angry, excited, and happy right along with them. There are so many elements and struggles going on with this book that I really appreciated. It's nice to have a story rich with storylines.

I had my fingers crossed, unlike Luke's wife, that he would please please please become the bishop because I have never read a story where a main character was the head of the community. I've also never read a story where the Amish characters weren't so welcome where they had settled. I liked that as a subject matter because, as Christians, we're often told that we are going to have to expect to be treated and misunderstood like our Christ. Because we often read about well-established communities, or friendly neighbors, we don't often see the other side of that for the Amish in fiction. I found the stand off with the teenagers and Luke in the barn to be so inspirational. Instead of threatening and violence, Luke talks them down with kindness and even welcomes them to come inside his house. Of course they refuse, but I really got a lot from that - so often we're told to emulate Jesus and to remain in peace even when others have threatened or wronged you, but sometimes it's difficult to imagine exactly what that would be like.

I'll preface talking about Bethel by mentioning how much I like the name Bethel. This character is certainly flawed, but she comes with her own set of integrity and ability to withstand adversity. When her sister is downright unkind to her, Bethel does not lash out at her. She stands firm in her beliefs even when tempted with the friendship and understanding an outsider who so happens to also be attracted to her. She wavers and she makes mistakes because she is a flawed and relatable character, but what is so inspirational about her is how she picks up right where she left off and continues working to follow her Christian principles.

I got frustrated with her more than once as she struggled to overcome and heal herself. I didn't agree with her entirely in many ways and sometimes wished she had a more gentle and appreciative approach. I was really glad when she got her happily ever after and that things were righted with Luke and her sister too in the end.

This is a great read that I would recommend to any Amish fiction lover as both a fresh perspective and a rich storyline.

Happy Reading!

Casey

Dandelions on the Wind by Mona Hodgson

Where I got this book: Through Netgalley - WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers

Rating: ★★★★☆

Synopsis: Tattered relationships and broken hearts, like a quilt, can be pieced together by God’s love.

                                                                                     

When Maren Jensen took a job on Elsa Brantenberg’s St. Charles, Missouri farm, she never expected to call the place her home. As she grows to love Mrs. Brantenberg and her granddaughter, Gabi, Maren is transformed from a lonely mail-order bride-without-a-groom to a beloved member of the Brantenberg household.

But when Gabi’s father, Rutherford “Wooly” Wainwright, returns to the farm unexpectedly, everything changes for Maren. Despite the failing eyesight that caused her suitor to reject her, she can see that Wooly desperately needs to reconnect with the family he abandoned when his grief sent him running toward the army—and into the Civil War. She also senses there could be something more between the widower and herself, if either can move beyond their past hurts.   

Comforted and counseled by the wisdom of the women in her beloved quilting circle, Maren begins to discover the cost such decisions demand of her heart. Are her choices in obedience to God, or is she running from His plan? Is it too late for love to be stitched into the fabric of her life? (Netgalley)

Year Published: February 19, 2013

My review:

Note: I read this book through Netgalley for the purpose of review.

This story went by in a flash! Before I knew it, it was over, and I am left excited to read the next one! This is a sweet novella that offers second chances on love between a Dutch rejected mail-order bride and a widowed civil war veteran. Maren and Woolly get off on the wrong foot initially, but it is Maren's desire for home that leads her to inspire Woolly's mother-in-law to eventually look past the hurt and accept him back into the family fold. It doesn't take Woolly long before he sees what extraordinary potential lies between himself and Maren. It is such a sweet love story that leaves you with a refreshing sigh.

I did enjoy this novella. It took me a minute before I realized that this was not a full-length novel, but I was able to finish it all in the time-frame of an evening. It was a really pleasant read, and one that I took advantage of while my husband was travelling for business. I never enjoy being without him, so a good love story is often the remedy. Like I said before, this is the first in a series, so I'm anxious to read the ones that follow. I love stories where others intertwine. It gives us more time in the author's/character's world.

I would recommend this for a quick read, if you're looking for something uplifting that will leave a smile on your face.

Making Good Habits, Breaking Bad Habits by Joyce Meyer

Where I got this book: Through Netgalley - Faithwords

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis: From nail biting to cell phone addiction, procrastination to overspending, bad habits seem to outnumber the good ones. Unfortunately, we pay a price for bad habits that outweighs the immediate gratification that they bring.

In this book, Joyce Meyer starts by examining the nature of habits. The first habit - and most important one to have - is the God Habit. By making it a habit to start your day by reading the Bible and communing with God, asking for His help in your efforts and His strength and sustenance, the stage is set for overcoming the habits you want to break and establishing new ones in their place.

She then explores how to break bad habits by examining the destructive negative behavior patterns.

The author moves on to discuss fourteen good habits and devotes a chapter to each. By the end of the chapter, the reader has a specific roadmap to follow until the behavior has become automatic (the definition of a habit). It's like following a GPS to get you to a new place. After traveling the same route several times, the GPS isn't needed for you to find your destination. The 'habit' of following the right route is ingrained. (Netgalley)

Year Published: April 2, 2013

My review:

Note: I read this book through Netgalley for the purpose of review.

This was definitely one of those books you NEED to read. Joyce Meyer just has a way of making you feel like she is talking to you and knows exactly what's going on in your mind and heart. I really appreciate her tough love approach and her optimism when she asserts that you can do better and that you absolutely can enjoy your life.

Reading this book showed me just how much I was holding myself back. Instead of taking life by the horns and working toward achieving our dreams, she points out that what many people do is hesitate and choose not to try because they're afraid to fail. She says that we'd be surprised how many procrastinators were actually just perfectionists who were afraid to do something and it not be good enough. That is me to T! Reading this book made me want to put it down and get off my behind and actually do the things I've always wanted to do but have been too critical of myself and too afraid of being criticized to actually try. This book instigates action and builds you up where you're saying to yourself - the only person in my way is me and the enemy who loves to get in my way. What a liberating moment when you realize that if you could just forget to think about failure and focus on achieving, God can and will make things happen for you. I'm taking this advice to heart and running with it.

Some quotes from the book that were really thought-provoking:

"If you put your faith in you or in other people, you will be disappointed, but if you put it in God you will be amazed at what He can do through you."

I think that is so poignant. Often we give other people, and even ourselves, way too much power over us. It's God that knows our potential and has the final say of what we are capable of doing. It's really liberating to think that it's only the Lord who can put limitations on us and often the ones we put on ourselves or allow others to put on us are not His. He sees far more in us than we allow for our lives.

"Remember this: God is pleased with you as long as you keep pressing on, and He is not disappointed with you because you are not perfect. Our faithlessness does not change God's faithfulness (II Timothy 2:13)."

I think this is something I need written on my refrigerator, my bathroom mirror, the homescreen on my cellphone, and maybe behind my eyelids. I am my own worst critic. Constantly, I find myself feeling defeated because my responses, actions, behavior isn't perfect. I'm not a perfect Christian. I'm not always kind when I'm frustrated, I GET frustrated, I get angry at my husband when he's bugging me even though I don't want to, and sometimes I forget to spend time with God in the morning and have to find a way to squeeze it in in the car, or at three in the afternoon, or at two o'clock in the morning. I fight with doubts, I fight with sin, I fight to be good and I fight to keep learning and focused on my spiritual life. It's a battle sometimes, and it's easy for me to imagine that God is frustrated with me. That He's throwing up his hands when I make that mistake yet again.

The recurring theme I keep finding everywhere though, is that He admires and responds to persistence. I can't feel defeated because I think he's disappointed with me when I know that He knows my heart. He knows I'm trying and that tomorrow I'm going to try some more, and then some more the next day - and while I'm never going to be as good as Jesus, I'm using him as a role model, and eventually I'll get better and better. I'm going to stop torturing myself thinking that God is ready to give up on me. I'm going to remind myself that He treasures my persistence and that He knows, better than anyone, how hard I'm trying and I'm going to take comfort in that.

"Our words affect us and the people around us. They also affect what God is able to do for us. We cannot have a negative mouth and a positive life."

Oh AMEN, Joyce! Negative words and negative thoughts can ruin your day and your mind more than anything can. I'm a firm believer that you can actually invite bad things to happen to you through worry and negativity. I feel like you're laying it out in detail for the enemy to know exactly how to make you unhappy. I am one of those people that choose to just be as annoyingly positive as I possibly can about everything. When something goes wrong, I'm already searching to find the bright side. Of course, just like everyone else, when I let myself be negative I can be really negative - especially when someone has upset me. It's why I don't like to go there - I take it to another level. It is just all the proof you need. How can God answer your prayers if you don't even believe in your heart that things are going to get better? This has to be why it's a sin to worry, because it goes against your belief system. Having faith means trusting God - and if you're only looking on the gloomy side of things, you’re not trusting God at all.

“Quite often we are our own worst enemy. We may want to be involved in everything that everyone we know is involved in, but it may not be best for us. If you follow wisdom you may end up peaceful while everyone you know is stressed from hurrying.”

This is something I think really resonates with me because I think our society glorifies more, more, more and hurry, hurry, hurry. While that works for a lot of people, and so many are able to perform on that rat race of life – the Lord didn’t intend that for everyone. In fact, so many people are miserable and on anti-depressants or just aren’t coping with life because theirs is totally out of control. How can you smell the roses? How can you enjoy being with the people you love? How can you function when you’ve got a hundred things to be thinking about and worrying about? What ever happened to the slower, family-oriented pace of life? Where people worked or kept their homes and spent their evenings together loving on one another?

I read something the other day that said, “Stop the glorification of busy.” I really liked that because our culture really does glorify those who take up every moment of their lives with doing something. People that are over-busy are seen as important, more together, more functional – people to be admired. Never mind that they’re extremely unhappy and probably medicated or in need of medication to cope with their lives. Never mind that their personal and spiritual lives are in shambles because they don’t have enough minutes in the day to take the time to build and nurture those relationships! Joyce also said something to the effect of, “If you’re too busy to spend time with God, you’re probably doing too much.” Essentially, God doesn’t want you so overloaded you don’t have time for Him or yourself or anyone else.

“God is not in a hurry, we are likely to run right past Him and then wonder where He went. Learn to live in God’s divine rhythm.”

This really spoke to me. Sometimes we forget that our God is not a genie. We can’t rub a lamp and make wishes and poof! they’re answered. God’s time isn’t ours. Sometimes we have prayed and prayed for something so long ago that when it actually gets answered we don’t even remember we’ve prayed and prayed for this.

Example: A year or so ago my husband was in a terrible job where he was mistreated and overworked. Sometimes pay day would roll around and he wouldn’t get a check because the company couldn’t manage money well. He was owed thousands of dollars in expenses, we had no insurance, and he was always travelling. Yet, he had a job and so many people were struggling it seemed irresponsible for him to leave without having something else lined up. We prayed and prayed that he would find something else, something with insurance, something where he was treated better, something where his expenses were paid promptly and something comparable to his pay then. That prayer was a doosy. It took a couple of stepping stone jobs, a failed job interview, turning down another job, and a pay cut or two for that prayer to finally be answered.

Now, over a year later, he’s working for a company that treats him so well, he spends a good deal of time working from home, has free insurance for the both of us, his expenses are non-existent, and a company vehicle. Recently we got word that he would be receiving a pay raise every quarter until it was back up close to where we were before. What a blessing! But so much time had passed, we had forgotten how much we had prayed for this, and failed to realize that our prayer had been exactly answered, even as a process. Then, one day we were in the car and it just came to us. The Lord had answered every single one of our prayers. Every single one of them! When you believe, when you pray, when you knock at the door, God listens, and He remembers. Just because He’s not on our time-frame doesn’t mean the answer is no, it just means we have to be patient. To slow down and listen. To wait for Him. I really liked this quote for that reason. It reminds me when I’m praying and praying and pouring my heart out, that my Father is listening and that He is answering if I will just slow down and let him.

Needless to say, this book was a blessing to read and it really got me thinking about the bad habits I have and what I can do to improve. I know I have a lot to work on, but I have the ultimate one on my side to encourage and guide and push me to excellence if I am willing to let Him do His work in my life. I just have to stop resisting and being afraid. Fear has no place with God. He is the best comforter, protector, and encourager. I’m so thankful I read this book because it reminds me of how much life I could be living. I think this is one that deserves more than one read because there is so much to be gotten out of it. If I could give it more than five stars, I would.

Thanks to Joyce, yet again, for the incredible insight!

A Wedding for Julia by Vannetta Chapman

Where I got this book: Through Netgalley - Harvest House Publishers 

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis: A Wedding for Julia, the third book in a romantic series from popular author Vannetta Chapman, takes a last look at the Amish community of Pebble Creek and the kind, caring people there. As they face challenges from the English world, they come together to reach out to their non-Amish neighbors while still preserving their cherished Plain ways.

Julia Beechy is so stunned, she can hardly breathe. Her mother's announcement that she must either marry or move from the family home upon her mother's imminent death catches Julia by surprise. How can she leave the only home she has ever known? What about her dream of opening her own Plain caf

When Caleb Zook offers support, comfort, and a solution, Julia is afraid to accept it. Can she marry someone she barely knows? Is it the right thing to do? Is this God's plan for her future?

Caleb thought his time for marrying was long past, but he feels a stirring in his heart he cannot shake for this beautiful, forlorn woman. Amid the circumstances of this life-altering decision, the people of Pebble Creek weather the worst storm to hit Wisconsin in the last hundred years. Where will Julia and Caleb be on the other side of it? (Goodreads)

Year Published: July 1, 2013 

My review: 

Note: I read this book through Netgalley for the purpose of review. 

I really enjoy reading Amish fiction. It's literally my go-to these days for my evening reads. This one, I honestly couldn't put down. The thing I found so refreshing about this one, is that while it followed the arranged marriage (between the two of them) recipe, it did not throw in all of the old, tired ingredients. I liked that Caleb and Julia got married and instead of allowing the total newness to create a valley of awkwardness between them where they would not allow themselves to feel something because they perceived the other didn't feel something (Classic arranged marriage/marriage of convenience conflict point) these two allowed their love to blossom and flourish - and even when they had hit a rough patch, they weren't so frustrating you wanted to throw the book. 

I just liked everyone in this story. The characters were so enjoyable and fleshed out that I genuinely felt myself caring for them and rooting for them all to do what they needed to be happy. Ada has me giving my book of Psalms a reread! When Sharon's story began in the midst of this, I didn't really see how she was going to fit in - of course, she eventually becomes a huge part of this story and I liked how the author incorporated her story and the heavier topics of her post-trauma coping mechanisms into the main plot. It gave an added dimension to the novel that you don't often see in light reads. Yet, she did so in such a way that it didn't bog down the story. It just simply added to my care and affection for each character. 

I think Chapman is a talented writer and this is the second book I've read from her that I really enjoyed. I'm definitely going to have to make a point to pull more stories from her in the future as it is really pleasant to climb into the world she creates in her novels.

Conflict Free Living by Joyce Meyer

Conflict Free Living By Joyce Meyer

Where I got this book: Library

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis: Interpersonal conflict is causing serious damage and difficulties in our lives. Its destructive effects are straining marriages, embittering our children, and causing discord in our churches—even our daily commute is often affected by hostility and aggression.

 

What if things could be different? What if every area of your life—yes, even your morning commute—could be free from conflict and strife? What if ALL of your relationships could be filled with love and excitement? (Amazon)

Year Published: June 5, 2012

This was such an inspirational book for me. Joyce Meyer has been an influential Christian leader for some time, and yet I am just now discovering her. When I decided I wanted to read some of her work, I initially struggled in finding a place to begin. This extraordinary woman has written over 80 novels! Hence, when it came to picking one to go first, I was at a loss. David, naturally, had a simple solution: check the library and see what they have. I did so, and this was the first book to come my way. 

The thing that is so refreshing about Meyer, I think, is that she is very real. She doesn't mince words, rather she gets right to the point and the heart of whatever she is talking about. A lot of what she talks about aren't new ideas at all - rather, she has the talent of taking the advice provided in the Bible and explains and makes it relatable in ways that I can understand. 

She explains that strife is such a huge culprit of unhappiness in our lives. That our own selfish interests and dissensions are what are actually keeping us from living happy, peaceful lives. She encourages the reader to throw off that reckless desire to always be right or to always have to have our own way, and to avoid gossip and judgement of others, and to know how to catch such bad behavior in ourselves and correct it immediately so that it happens less and less. 

Meyer points the finger at Satan, saying that he is the culprit here - explaining that there is nothing he loves more than to see us unhappy and selfish and snarking at one another. He loves to be behind a phone call that ruins a perfectly good day or to make mountains out of molehills by using our insecurities against us. She tells us to be aware of that trap, to fight to overcome it, and to break free from the pains of past hurts that leave us feeling touchy and susceptible to enemy attack. 

I found this book so encouraging and uplifting because it reminded me that I had control of my emotions and what I allowed to bother or anger me. It helped me to realize that I didn't have to make myself unhappy all the time with my own selfish concerns. Meyer tells us to turn to the Lord for direction and peace and to recognize when we are slipping off of into the ditch and missing out on the blessed anointing of the Holy Spirit. It made me crave the happiness and peacefulness that she described and to feel like it was within my reach. I finished this book feeling much better about everything and really determined to have a tighter control on silly emotions and unnecessary anger. 

Joyce Meyer has the uncanny ability to make you feel like she knows exactly what kind of nonsense you've been up to in your personal life. She comments on what she knows your excuses are and explains them in a way that both makes you think and also can make you laugh at yourself. She's got an extraordinary message here, and I'm so glad that God put this particular book of hers in my hands first. 

-Casey

Amish Book Reviews

Posted: 16 Nov 2012 08:25 PM PST

I have not blogged as much this week, I am aware, as I've been trying to get caught up with housework and deal with a few personal issues. It's left me feeling exhausted and non-interested in writing about anything of worth. I began this blog on Tuesday morning, while my husband was sleeping and promptly abandoned it as laundry and the making of breakfast beckoned.

With my only sibling being about twelve years my junior, I was an only child most of my life. My father has joked on more than one occasion that he has raised two only children. Because of this, my love for reading developed early in life and grew to a fever pitch as I eventually pursued a degree in English literature. With that said, I don't like to read everything. I'm pretty picky about what I like, and what I enjoy. Namely, my enjoyment stems from loving to read about families and stories of true love. One of the first loves I ever had on the page was of Laura Ingalls. I spent the better part of my childhood wanting to be her. I was inthralled with her life story and adventures, and heavily influenced by my grandparents' parenting techniques, I felt my life was similar enough in principles that I could reasonably see myself in those stories. My grandmother pulled a few of her old dresses out of the closet and gave them to me, and I wore them with an apron for what I feel was several years of my life, as I swept the floors and made little houses out of bathrooms and tree clusters in the forest. Even then, I looked forward to having a family of my own. To being a mother and a wife. A typical childhood fantasy took root in my heart.

Later on in life, I discovered a love for Jane Austen novels that easily surpassed my love of Laura Ingalls. I can truthfully say that I have read every one of Miss Austen's novels at least three times, some more than that. Anyone who knows me personally knows how I feel about them. I see her influence everywhere. Through her, I grew to love many novels of the Victorian Era, and also enjoyed reading Regency-based modern novels for quite some time. My book collection consists mostly, now, of classic literature and Austen variations. 

Lately, though, my interest has drifted to Amish fiction. Everyone I say that to without an explanation wants to laugh, because it does sound funny, I suppose. But it's true - each day, I look forward to some downtime that I set aside for reading (usually before bed) in my glider chair, with the lights down low. The thing I like so much about Amish literature is the same thing I like so much about reading about the Regency era, and to some degree, the Victorian Era (but not as much) - it's the same thing I enjoyed about Laura Ingalls Wilder's stories. The simplicity of life.

I really enjoy stories with characters who live life simply, grateful for what they have, and without all of the hustle and bustle that seems to plague us these days in the modern world. I think additionally, as I seek to strengthen my path walking as a Christian, that reading about the Amish, really strengthens and fortifies my convictions. Reading about the people that work to please God in their every action - the way they dress, what they do for others, their character, their behavior, their humility, and their hard work ethic is something I can really relate to, as I purpose to become a loving and supportive wife, woman of God, and one day mother. There is so much to be gleaned from tales of Godly, disciplined people who choose to live simply and with humility. My, how I can relate to that!

I recently went back and reread some of the Little House books and it was an entirely new experience to me as an adult and as a wife. I read of all the sacrifices and hard work and struggles that Laura's parents went through as they began a new life homesteading on the prairie and I think of their faith and fortitude, how much they made of the little that they had and I am so inspired! How much we have to be thankful for! Not to mention what an inspiration Caroline Ingalls is as a wife to Charles. How many times did he ask her to start their lives over from scratch and how many times she followed him dutifully! Their love and marriage is also something that must be noted. Caroline was a rare woman and an even rarer wife. She leads readers by example, without ever imagining, I'm sure, that someday someone would be reading and taking a leaf or two out of her book when it comes to joyfully serving and loving her husband and children. If more women were like her, I'd like to think the whole world would be better off!

In any case, I thought I would take the time to recommend some Amish books I've read lately. Every single one of these I've found at the Christian bookstore for under $5. Also, in one store, I got them that inexpensively, and in addition they were buy 3 get a 4th free. So, if you're looking for something nice to read, and something that can really inspire you to want to be a better Christian/wife/person/worker etc. I'd strongly recommend.

1. Plain Perfect by Beth Wiseman

A search for peace in Amish country proves anything but simple for a woman on the run from life...and herself.

On the rolling plains of Lancaster County, PA., Lillian Miller is searching for her grandparents' house...and so much more. After years of neglect and abuse, she's turning to a lifestyle of simplicity among the Amish to find herself. As she discards the distractions of her former life, she befriends the young boy working on her family's farm and his attractive widowed father, Samuel Stoltzfus.  Despite Lillian's best efforts to the contrary, her feelings for Samuel--and his for her--deepen.  Will Lillian find her faith in Plain living, or will she be forced to return to her former life?

This story gets a 5 out of 5 from me. I really enjoyed the main character Lillian, and I rooted for her to find herself and to fall in love with Samuel all through the novel. I found it to be a really neat, tender and satisfying read.

2. A Man of His Word by Kathleen Fuller

Moriah's heart will only be safe with a man of his word.
In just a few short months, Moriah Miller’s perfect life unravels. Newly wed and newly pregnant, Moriah is abandoned by her husband, Levi. He’s left her, his family, and their faith without a backward glance. The community, stunned, rushes to the young woman’s aid. But there is someone who feels more than just sympathy for Moriah. Gabriel Miller—Levi's twin—longs for an intimate commitment that might someday bind them to one another. Convinced of the impossibility of his dream, Gabriel settles for a mere friendship with the woman he loves. Moriah bravely goes on with her life, adjusting to her new role in their tight-knit Amish community and preparing for the birth of her child. She is unaware that her brief marriage—once idealized as the happiest time of her life—may have been merely a shadow of the kind of love God has created for her. A love that can mend the soul, renew her heart, and give her a future filled with hope . . . if she'll only let it.

 This was also a touching story. I really felt for Moriah in her dismay and pain and hopelessness after her husband abandoned her. I admired her strength and her will to keeping going even if it was just for her unborn child's sake. I can appreciate why they decided to pair this book with Beth Wiseman's writing style, they both have a kind and tender approach to humanity that is endearing and pleasurable for the reader.

3. Plain Promise by Beth Wiseman

Sadie Always Believed in God's Promises. But Can She Really Trust His Heart?
Young Amish widow, Sadie Fisher, leads a simple life in the quiet countryside of Lancaster County—selling Amish goods to a steady stream of tourists. Though it is a good life, lately she's wondered if it is God's will for her to remain without a husband and a family. Winters can be brutally cold and lonely in Pennsylvania, so Sadie rejoices when a renter signs up for a three month stay in her guest cottage. But when wealthy, impulsive Englischer Kade Saunders arrives, she isn't sure she wants him around that long. Sadie feels the stress of the bishop's watchful eye, expecting her to act in accordance with the Ordnung, the understood behavior by which the Amish live. To complicate things, Kade is soon surprised with sole custody of a child he barely knows—his five-year-old autistic son, Tyler. Sadie and young Tyler form an immediate connection. As she grows to love and understand this exceptional child, her feelings for Kade grow into something that both terrifies and exhilarates her. And while Kade seems to feel the attraction to her as well, their worlds couldn't be farther apart. Sadie must stay true to her Amish roots, but denying the love she feels is impossible. Could it be that God has the improbable in store for Sadie? And will she have the faith to step into a love bigger than she's ever dreamed possible?

Sadie is my favorite heroine thus far whilst reading Amish fiction. I really enjoyed the strength of her faith, her desire to believe in God's plan for her even when things seemed hopeless, and her never ending clinging to morality even when the temptation was present to do otherwise. I found Kade's son to be really endearing, and Wiseman's portrayal of autism to be both sensitive and accurate. I really enjoy this author's sensitive nature and plan on reading as many of her books as I can get my hands on in the future.

4. The Waiting by Suzanne Woods Fisher 

 Jorie King has been waiting for Benjamin Zook to return home to Lancaster County so they can marry. When news arrives that Ben has been killed, Jorie finds comfort in the friendship of his brother Caleb. That friendship ripens into love, and it seems that they are meant to be together. But when the unexpected happens, their worlds are turned upside down once more. Will Jorie trust God to lead her into the arms of a new man?

What I like about this story is how carefully the author interweaves the different stories and experiences of her characters. I did enjoy this story, and really enjoyed what a steady and kind character Cal was throughout this book. I am giving this one a 4 out of 5, however, because I really dislike how the author chooses to portray people that are overweight and how she lets her Christian characters treat them. There is a character in this book that everyone calls "Fat Lizzie" and it really took me out of the good Amish world to imagine that that would be acceptable. I don't know anything about Amish people other than I have read, but I know that for most Christian (and nonChristian) people, that it's not really acceptable to call people fat. I found that to be really disappointing. Unfortunately, as I review her next book, you will find that it only gets worse! Otherwise this was an amazing story, and I truly enjoyed it. 

5. The Search by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Fifteen years ago, Lainey O'Toole made a split-second decision. She couldn't have known that her choice would impact so many. Now in her mid-twenties, she is poised to go to culinary school when her car breaks down in Stoney Ridge, the very Amish town in which her long-reaching decision was made, forcing her to face the shadowed past. Bess Reihl is less than thrilled to be spending the summer at Rose Hill Farm with her large and intimidating grandmother, Bertha. It quickly becomes clear that she is there to work the farm--and work hard. The labor is made slightly more tolerable by the time it affords Bess to spend with the handsome hired hand, Billy Lapp. But he only has eyes for a flirty and curvaceous older girl. Lainey's and Bess's worlds are about to collide and the secrets that come to light will shock them both.

This is hands down my least favorite book I have read, and I even stopped reading it halfway through due to a multitude of problems I saw with the story. I'm going to simply include my book review from Amazon here:
2 stars
I don't know what it is about this novel, but I'm just not into it. I really enjoyed reading other books by this author, but this one seemed almost forced. First off, one of the things I enjoy reading Amish fiction is the atmosphere and the tight knit community portrayed in the stories. This one, in spite of being linked to other main characters in her other novels, seems to lack that feature. Instead of that broader community, we focus on Mammi's house and almost nothing else. I can't even visualize how she exists within a community, rather I simply have only her farm and her house to go on. The setting, consequently feels underdeveloped. Secondly, I dislike how this author portrays overweight people- as if they all look like jabba the hut. It kind of takes me out of the fantasy imagining when the author insists on  mentioning that Mammi's gonna almost tip over the buggy when she climbs in or that her several chins wobble when she talks and moves. My goodness! Do you think that makes someone feel good to read something like that? Reconsider the next time you think you want to portray someone as larger and find a way to be much nicer about it so that your readers aren't turned off. Thirdly, I just don't know where this novel is going. I want to read a love story and apparently the love story isn't even between the main characters. Young adult awkward love isn't what I am looking for - I like happy endings. I wish I would have looked this book up before I bought it. I hate not finishing things, but I think it's going to have to happen. Lastly, I really don't like giving bad reviews, but because this book has so many good reviews, I believe a different opinion might be valuable to the potential reader.


So there you have it. I'll have more for you later, as I've recently rediscovered the library nearby has a good many books for me to borrow!

Blessings from my house to yours!
Casey