Second Chance Inn by best selling author Marlayne Giron is a contemporary Christian novel. It has modern day or “English” and Amish elements in it. For me it was a poignant tale that spoke to my heart.
This is the story of Rachel Winston from Southern California. She suddenly finds herself a widow even though she is just in her early thirties. Her teenage daughter, Karen, moves with her to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It is also the story of Samuel Miller, an Amish man who recently lost his wife and five children in a buggy accident. He sold his farmhouse to Rachel and now lives in the smaller Dawdi Haus on the property.
The author has done a fabulous job with this book. I was immediately invested in the story and characters. The characters are crafted with emotions and depth to make them believable and relatable. The dialogue sounded authentic and was true to life. My emotions mirrored the characters, which is a sign of great writing. I felt this book.
It is a charming story that is quite different from most of the Amish tales that I have read. The author does an exquisite job transporting readers to the Amish Community in Pennsylvania. She included Life and Christian messages throughout this intriguing book.
I highly recommend this remarkable book. It would make a great book club choice because there is so much to discuss. It gave me pause to think about what I had just read. I am still thinking about it days later. It earns a 5 out of 5 stars rating from me. A copy was provided, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Publisher : Marlayne Giron (October 13, 2023)
Language : English
Paperback : 318 pages
ISBN-13 : 979-8218953775
Item Weight : 13 ounces
Dimensions : 5.25 x 0.8 x 8 inches
Rachel Winston is suddenly and tragically widowed in her early 30s. She and her adopted, teenaged daughter, Karen, are forced to leave everything behind in Southern California. She purchases an Amish farmhouse in Lancaster County, PA to open an Amish-style Bed & Breakfast Inn. The farmhouse she purchases was put on the market by a young Amish widower, Samuel Miller, who recently lost his wife and five children in a buggy accident. He has moved into the Dawdi house to maintain the farm and Rachel happily cooks, cleans, and does his laundry in exchange for his help.
Thrown together by tragic loss, their mutual suffering draws them together against the rules of his community. Solace and friendship soon turn into something deeper, putting him at great risk for shunning. Rachel struggles to adapt while her daughter finds it easier to fit in to the Amish lifestyle.
About the Author
Marlayne Giron is a wife and mother living in Orange County, California. She currently works full time and enjoys cooking for her family every night, scrapbooking, making high teas, and entertaining. She is also the author of Make a Wish, In Plain Sight and The Victor Companion Lesson Plan.
I also have a blog about my experience with breast cancer (no disturbing photos but plenty of humor). My blog is: https://mmgiron.wixsite.com/website
The Flower Quilter by amazing storyteller Mindy Steele is Book One in her The Heart of the Amish series. This is a contemporary Christian Amish romance. Within the first few pages I was interested in the delightful story.
This is the tale of Barbara Schwartz, a Kentucky Amish woman, who travels to Shipshewana, Indiana to help her grandparents for the summer. There she meets Melvin Bontrager, an Amish man with a landscaping business. Life is much different in this Amish tourist community.
Barbara is the only one in her family that is at a loss with a needle and thread. She has a plethora of other talents, including a caring heart. Melvin comes with some past baggage. He carries guilt that is misplaced. As the two begin working together, they both start to open up more.
The author did a great job crafting her characters, right down to some unruly children. I loved the humor and twists that were included. The story was well done and had me turning page after page until I had read the book in one sitting.
I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful story. It was full of entertainment, life lessons, as well as spiritual ones. The author taught me some things about the different Amish communities. I highly recommend it. It gets a five out of five star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: The Flower Quilter
Author: Mindy Steele
Genre: Amish/Christian Fiction
Release Date: September, 2023
Barbara Breaks from Amish Tradition to Express Her Artistry
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this new series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
Barbara Schwartz was born into a family of quilters, but she would rather eat dirt than partake in another quilting frolic or sew on another binding. When her parents send her to Indiana to help her grandmother in her quilting shop, she finds herself amongst a very different community. It’s only one summer and then she will be back in Kentucky where she belongs.
Melvin Bontrager’s world stopped six years ago when his parents died. Now when his only means of providing for his widowed sister and niece is threatened, Melvin finds his landscaping business disappearing too. When spring delivers a newcomer who is immune to his salty moods, Melvin does something he has never done before, accepts help.
What blooms is the last thing Barbara ever expected, and everything Melvin could ever want.Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Mindy Steele is the award-winning author and bestselling author of over a dozen novels and novellas in Christian fiction. Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele has been writing since she could hold a crayon on the wall and lives in northeastern Kentucky—where many of her stories are set.
More from Mindy
The Story Behind the Story
I’ve connected with many wonderful readers since my debut in 2021 and while attending my first multi-author and reader event in Shipshewana, Indiana, I was blessed to finally meet many of them in person. I connected with my amazing assistant, my Mississippi fishing buddy, and the golden girls who have been with me from the beginning. God handpicked each of these women and I am so thankful he did.
I knew before leaving home I would not be writing about Shipshewana or the touristy areas considering I love our small rural communities, but you know what they say about thinking you know everything. . .
I was charmed at a little Bed and Breakfast and further charmed by Bridgett the owner. After touring the Amish Market and a few other memorable sites, my husband and I spent an afternoon with our dear friends Barb and Mel. Barb insisted I see her favorite place, the Krider Fair Gardens. Being a lover of flowers and gardening myself, I was entranced. I walked over every inch and stored its details in my heart. I even called my mother.
I quickly learned the quilt gardens were signature in Indiana, sprawling along the Pumkinvine Trail and covering multiple counties. From May to September, thousands come to photograph the designs that change each year. There is even an app for that now.
I had learned so much about Amish gardens and greenhouses from my neighbors who had family-owned greenhouses which I wrote about in An Amish Flower Farm.
It was also a no brainer that I would include quilting into the story. I love to quilt, much more than my dear sweet heroine needless to say.
I was especially happy to include the quilt shop, just a block down from The Blue Gate and the owner was thrilled her shop was the inspiration to Anna Beechy’s quilt shop.
Writing about two different Amish communities was a fun challenge made easy thanks to dear friends from both. Especially Anna Mae, the best garden tea maker north of Ohio who never let my questions bother her.
What was most memorable about writing this book over all others?
I had no desk!!!
I love writing about new things not explored yet, and well…my writer heart was ready to start before we even got home. Often, I let an idea percolate a few days, but this story unfolded like a favorite re-run and I knew all the words. It was time to get writing, but suddenly we had covid and hours turned to days and weeks. It was a scary time as my husband struggled with it terribly, but we got through and then Hurricane Ida struck the south and my husband was called up. I decided to travel with my husband and son to deliver Fema Relief.
My family needed me, and I needed to write this book!!! So, in pure Mindy fashion, I packed up my notepads, extra fine tip pens, and did both.
The draft of The Flower Quilter was written in the back of an old semi that leaked like a strainer as we delivered trailers and supplies from Kentucky to the hardest hit areas of Mississippi and Louisiana nonstop for nine days.
I hope to never try that again, but no matter what we encountered, those gardens of Indiana, keep popping up and adding a little sunshine to the chaos around me. God sure knows how to keep beauty in focus when everything gets turned upside down. He also knows how to take our worst traits and turn them into something remarkable.
I hope you love this story and my take on the gardens as much as I did. Thank you for being part of the tour!!! And may God bless and keep you!
The Amish Mother’s Secret, written by author Diane Carver, is a contemporary Amish novel. This is a poignant tale that mingles Amish and English seamlessly. The result is an emotional story that will give you all of the feels. This is Book One in the author’s new Amish Adoption Series.
This is the tale of Lindsay Prescott. Her daughter, Phoebe, has always wanted a bigger dfamily. It has been difficult being raised as an only child of a single mother. However, her mother has a secret that will change Phoebe’s life. Once the secret is revealed it is an emotional roller coaster for the people involved. There will be hurt, anger, excitement, joy, anxiety, and so much more.
I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. It took only a few pages to become invested in this interesting story and its characters. The characters are all well developed and believable. They had a variety of personalities, emotions, and range of faith. I appreciated the Christian message. It was heavily sprinkled throughout the book.
I recommend this story filled with faith, redemption, healing, forgiveness, family, new beginnings, and romance. Do not be concerned if you aren’t a fan of Amish fiction, because you will find so much more. The author reveals personal information after the story. It really tugged at my heartstrings. This would make for some great discussions in a book club. It will stay with you long after you finish it.
This gets a 4 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. These are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: The Amish Mother’s Secret
Author: Diane Craver
Genre: Amish Romance
Release Date: December 22, 2022
Sometimes a beautiful miracle comes to you at exactly the wrong time…
Lindsay Prescott is 40 and single when tragedy strikes. Diagnosed with stage 4, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer, her instinct is to right the wrongs in her life. Her unfortunate childhood with an alcoholic, verbally abusive mother drove her to break free in desperation at the age of 17. While working at a hotel along the beach on the East Coast, she met Harris Manning. He took her breath away and she gave herself to him in love.
Harris’ life was already planned out for him by his wealthy parents. Falling for Lindsay had been a dream. However, compelled to wed the woman his parents chose for him, he’d left her to endure a shaky marriage.
Though Harris never knew it, Lindsay found herself pregnant when he left her with no way to care for identical triplets on her own. When the triplets were five months old, she reconnected with an Amish couple—Katie and Roman Yoder—who were unable to have children. The Yoders adopted Amy and Jenna while Lindsay kept Phoebe. She couldn’t bear to give all three babies away. In the years that followed, Katie worked hard to keep her away from her adopted daughters.
When you let go of a miracle, can you ever capture it again?
After Harris learns his ex-wife intercepted Lindsay’s calls years ago to tell him she was pregnant, he rushes to her side, thrilled to discover he’s a father. But life rarely gives fairytale endings. Revealing the truth may prove more devastating than the hurdles that came before…and all that will surely come after for a woman fighting for her life.Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Diane Craver is the author of The Amish Mother’s Secret, Book 1 in The Amish Adoption Series and two popular Amish series, Dreams of PlainDaughters and TheBishop’s Daughters. Diane also writes romantic suspense, inspirational contemporary romance, historical Christian fiction and women’s fiction. Her emotional reads receive great reviews. Although she started her career writing non-fiction, she switched to writing fiction. She wanted to keep her sanity in the midst of having a large family. Writing fiction with quirky and memorable characters gave her the escape she needed from her noisy household. Diane met her husband Tom while teaching at an orphanage. They enjoy their life in southwestern Ohio, and have been blessed with six children and several grandchildren. Two adult daughters with Down syndrome live with Tom and Diane. Her family is supportive of her writing career, and her favorite vacation is going to the beach with them. She gives thanks daily to God for her wonderful blessings, including being in remission from Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
More from Diane
When I started writing The Amish Mother’s Secret, a friend had been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I decided to have my main character, Lindsay, to have the same type of cancer. I used many of the details of his illness for my character’s cancer. Then an unbelievable thing happened to me. I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I never expected to have cancer with none in my family history.
It was hard telling our children I was diagnosed with stage four cancer. It was stage four because it was found in many of my lymph nodes throughout my body. I rewrote the details in my manuscript so that my character reflected the type of lymphoma I had. Also, after the six months of chemo, I started two years of maintenance therapy. My oncologist said doing this therapy treatment during remission could reduce the risk of recurrence and improve the cure rate for me.
While doing my months of chemo treatments, I received thoughtful gifts, devotional books, two prayer blankets and cards with wonderful Bible verses from friends and relatives. Feeling God’s love through them helped me to get through a difficult time in my life. I appreciated all the prayers said for me to recover from cancer. I have been blessed with an awesome support group of readers.
During this stressful time, I heard from agent Lesley Sabga of The Seymour Agency. She wanted to represent me and told me how much she loved my voice. I hadn’t been looking for an agent so it was a wonderful blessing to sign with Lesley. I had planned on The Amish Mother’s Secret to be a standalone novel, but Lesley acquired a three-book contract for me with Vinspire Publishing. I enjoyed writing about the two mothers, Lindsay and Katie, in Book One, The Amish Mother’s Secret. Both mothers were from two different worlds, but their love never wavered for their children. The second book in my Amish Adoption series, An Unexpected Gift, continues the adoption theme and is also available for purchase. Book three will release next year.
Letters of Comfort by best-selling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is Book Two in her series The Friendship Letters. This is a Christian, contemporary Amish fiction. It may be read as a stand alone, but since the book shares characters with Book 1, readers might benefit from reading it first. The author does a stellar job keeping readers appraised on the activities that happened previously.
This is the story of Doretta. The book opens with Doretta and finance William joyfully counting down the days until their wedding. Then tragedy strikes in the form of a buggy accident and things swiftly change. Doretta is critically injured and in a coma. William is killed without her even knowing it.
From page I was invested in the story and its characters. My heart hurt for Doretta for the deep loss she had incurred. Her story was written in an open and honest way. This book shows ways that help those who are hurting. There is a strong message of faith woven throughout the entire fabric of this novel.
With themes of grief, depression, struggles, friendship, faith, and second chances, this is an emotionally charged story. Depression is handled in a realistic way. The characters are expertly crafted and believable. The dialog is authentic. For the most part the story is predictable, but the message of hope and restoration is genuine. This is a deeper, realistic subject series than most Amish ones that I have read. These issues are things that happen to everyone.
I highly recommend this book. It will stay with you and make you ponder over its finely crafted tale for a long time. This would make a great reading group choice. After the conclusion of the story, is a recipe from it. Following that are a note from the author, discussion question guide, and a listing of all of the books written by the author. I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my honest words.
PRODUCT DETAILS
ASIN : B0BZR27CJ4
Publisher : Barbour Fiction (August 1, 2023)
Publication date : August 1, 2023
Language : English
File size : 3860 KB
Text-to-Speech : Enabled
Screen Reader : Supported
Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
X-Ray : Not Enabled
Word Wise : Enabled
Sticky notes : On Kindle Scribe
Print length : 322 pages
Page numbers source ISBN : 1636094872
About Book Two
Doretta Schwartz used to be so happy and passed her positive attitude along to friends in several letters she wrote each month. But that all changed the day she learned of her fiance’s death and a heavy weight of depression fell upon her. Feeling empty, she puts away her letter writing and won’t even respond to calls from friends. William’s twin brother, Warren, is also grieving his loss, while at the same time, trying to be supportive to his parents and Doretta. Doretta responds to Warren’s friendship, but is he just becoming a replacement for the once-in-a-lifetime love she lost?
About the Author
Wanda Brunstetter is an award-winning romance novelist who has led millions of readers to lose their heart in the Amish life. She is the author of over 100 books with more than 12 million copies sold. Many of her books have landed on the top bestseller lists, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and CBD.
Her Only Wish by best selling author Shelley Shepard Gray, is Book Two in her Seasons in Pinecraft series. This Christian Amish book is set in the Florida community of Pinecraft, which is very different from those in other states. Even though it is the second book in a series, it may easily be read and followed as a stand alone.
This is the story of Betsy Detweiler. She has been to Pinecraft, Florida on vacation and decides to go back. There is so much to do there. Betsy has a “life list” which is similar to what other people call a bucket list. Her list includes things she wants to learn while she is there, such as how to swim and golf.
The author has created realistic, believable characters and an engaging story. I was immediately invested in it. After reading this, I have a better idea of what the Pinecraft community is like. Now I want to go there and experience it for myself.
This is a lovely Amish book with timeless life and Christian lessons. It has a sweet romance. I highly recommend it to everyone. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by NetGalley but these are my honest thoughts.
About the Author
Shelley Shepard Gray is a NYT and USA Today bestselling author. She’s published over a hundred novels and has over a million books in print. She currently lives in northern Ohio and writes full time.
Shelley lives just an hour from Holmes County, where many of her Amish-themed novels are set. She currently writes contemporary romance and Amish fiction for a variety of publishers. When not spending time with her family or writing, she can usually be found walking her two dachshunds on one of the many trails in the Cleveland area.
She also bakes a lot, loves coconut cream pie, and will hardly ever pull weeds, mow the yard, or drive in the snow.
Shelley also spends a lot of time on line!
Please visit her website, http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com to find out her latest news or to sign up for her newsletter. Shelley can also be found on FaceBook, Instagram @shelley.s.gray, or on Twitter @ShelleySGray.
Letters of Trust by best selling author Wanda Brunstetter is the first book in her Christian contemporary Amish series The Friendship Letters. This poignant novel is about a struggle some people have and its affects on the lives of loved ones besides themselves. The life lessons in this book are timeless.
This is the story of Amish newlyweds Eleanor and Vic Lapp. After their marriage they left Indiana and moved back to Vic’s hometown in Pennsylvania. Eleanor and her best friend, Doretta Schwartz, keep in touch with each other by writing letters. As best friends do, they pour our their hearts in these letters knowing their secrets will be kept confidential.
Life is going well for the newlyweds in Pennsylvania. Vic is working and has a ride there with a friend. His family loves Eleanor. Then, one day their lives change when a tragic accident happens.
The author did an amazing job with this heartbreaking story. The characters were realistic and easy to befriend. I love that some Pennsylvania Deutsch words were used. I was able to understand their meaning through the conversation.
In this novel, the subject matter was deeper and more serious than some of the author’s books and most Amish books. It was presented from both sides which I appreciated. This is a book that has stuck with me for days after finishing it.
I highly recommend this book. It is perfect for a reading group. There are discussion questions, author notes, and a recipe from the story included at the end. How fun would it be to eat a treat served in the book while discussing it?! I rate this 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Barbour Publishing, but these are my honest words.
Rachael’s Decision is a Christian historical Amish romance novel by master storyteller, Molly Jebber. This is book six in her Amish Charm Bakery series. Even though it is book six, it may easily be read and followed as a standalone book.
Set in the quaint town of Charm, Ohio in 1915, this an incredibly engaging tale. It is the story of Rachael Schlabach, whose fiancé was killed in an accident. She was injured and left with a limp from that tragedy. Rachael has been helping widower, Nathan Waller, with his children and household since he lost his wife. Even though he is not ready to begin life with another woman, Rachael is very fond of him and his children.
A new man, Caleb Yutzy, comes to town and visits the bakery. When Caleb sees Rachael he is immediately smitten with her. Rachael is now caught in the middle between two men.
This is a lovely story with adorable characters. Nathan’s two children are typical kids, and liven up the story. The author has a sweet way of telling stories. I was invested within the first few pages and did not want to quit reading until I had finished the entire book. The faith message is heavily sprinkled throughout the story. There are life lessons included, also. Expect a few twists and turns to keep you on your toes.
I highly recommend this book. It is a poignant tale of romance, friendship, redemption, and has the delightful treats of a bakery. I really enjoyed it. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my own honest words.
About the Book
Book: Rachael’s Decision
Author: Molly Jebber
Genre: Amish Romance
Release date: January 24, 2023
In 1915 Ohio, anyone entering the Amish Charm Bakery is greeted by the sweet warmth and delicious fragrance of cinnamon and vanilla wafting from freshly baked cookies and pies. And newcomers to this Amish community will find friendship on the menu, too—and perhaps for a lucky few, even lasting love . . .
Rachael Schlabach’s first chance for a husband ended in a tragic accident that left her with a limp. Though happy to work in the beloved Amish Charm Bakery, she hasn’t abandoned her romantic dreams, but she has focused on a widower with two adorable kinner she would love to raise as her own. Then handsome, single Caleb Yutzy arrives on the scene.
Caleb is eager to court pretty, warm-hearted Rachael, and tells her so. But their frank conversations reveal a truth that dashes her hopes—Caleb very much wants kinner, the one thing Rachael can’t give him. Even when Caleb assures her it’s no matter, she can’t bring herself to be so selfish. Yet love is beyond all planning, and with faith Rachael and Caleb may discover the lifetime of love they were meant to share . . .
Molly Jebber is a best-selling and award-winning author of Amish Historical Romance. Molly’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly Best Ten lists, USA Today’s HEA, featured in live video on Naples News, many media outlets across the U.S. You’ll find her books on most stores the first three months of their release across the U.S, UK, Canada, and more. She’s been interviewed on television, and she’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, other women’s professional organizations, and she offers presentations on writing, agent or no agent, publishing, and marketing.
She also speaks about the Amish lifestyles and traditions. She says the most rewarding part about writing stories is meeting wonderful readers who become friends through social media and at her speaking events. Please visit her website: http://www.mollyjebber.com for a full list of her books (and options of stores to buy them), speaking events and recipes. Her book, Liza’s Second Chance, is being made into a movie for Sony/Pureflix.
She loves God, her family, and friends and Florida sunshine. She says yes to swimming, the beach, golf, and time with her family and friends, and no to coconut, onions, and skydiving!
More from Molly
Rachael in Rachael’s Decision has a limp. You’ll be surprised why when you read the story!
Rachael’s Decision is the sixth book in my Amish Charm Bakery Series. Each book can be read as a standalone. But if you read them in order, you’ll recognize how their lives intertwine. You’ll remember the sheriff and Dr. Harrison, and why they matter, and you’ll fall in love with Charm, Ohio.
Liza’s Second Chance
Ellie’s Redemption
Hannah’s Courage
Maryann’s Hope
Magdelena’s Choice
Rachael’s Decision
I loved writing this series in a bakery setting, except I gained weight just reading about the desserts and found myself craving cakes and cookies. Rachael has an interesting past, and she has a loving heart. You’ll want to laugh with her and root for her. You’ll love Caleb, and you’ll root for him, too! This book has twists, turns, and it’s full of surprises.
The most fun I have is meeting readers like you who I consider friends through social media, at conferences, and that I’ve met at Amish talks, Amish Girlfriend Getaways, and many other places. If I wasn’t writing and speaking, I would’ve never meet people like you. That’s what keeps me writing. Thank you so much for your interest in my books.
My daughter, Misty, had a little girl, Jolene, and she’s keeping me busy, and she’s so much fun. Some days, she on my lap and we write together! Thank you for joining me here today! I hope you’ll connect with me on Facebook!
Her Heart’s Desire by author Shelley Shepard Gray is the first book in her new series, A Season in Pinecraft. This is a contemporary Amish Christian fiction book that is delightful. I was quickly invested in the story and the lives of the characters.
This is the tale of some young people individually going to Pinecraft, Florida for a winter vacation. Mary Margaret Miller eagerly takes the bus by herself from Trail, Ohio for a Florida excursion. Her bus made an emergency stop in Georgia placing Mary with two other Amish girls, Betsy and Lilly, in a hotel room. The girls become fast friends.
They meet two Amish men and sparks begin to fly. All of them are staying at the same Bed and Breakfast. A fourth girl happens to come to Pinecraft and has history with Mary Margaret. Will this cause trouble? What happens when the vacation is over as two couples are dating?
This is a sweet story that has themes of faith, hope, trust, and forgiveness. The characters are likable and realistic. Their conversations were true to the Amish. I loved the innkeeper. She was so lovable and a great mentor to those staying at her place. After the story, there is a sample from the next book in the series.
This was an enjoyable read, but it was different than most Amish books that I’ve read. I don’t recall reading a book where the young people were on vacation far from home. While I did like the story, I did miss the everyday family life. The author did an exemplary job whisking me away to Florida and the Amish community there. It was almost like being there myself.
I highly recommend this book and new series to anyone. There is so much to love about it. It gets a five out of five star rating from me. A copy was provided, but these are my honest words.
About the Author
Shelley Shepard Gray is a NYT and USA Today bestselling author. She’s published over a hundred novels and has over a million books in print. She currently lives in northern Ohio and writes full time.
Shelley lives just an hour from Holmes County, where many of her Amish-themed novels are set. She currently writes contemporary romance and Amish fiction for a variety of publishers. When not spending time with her family or writing, she can usually be found walking her two dachshunds on one of the many trails in the Cleveland area.
She also bakes a lot, loves coconut cream pie, and will hardly ever pull weeds, mow the yard, or drive in the snow.
Shelley also spends a lot of time on line! Please visit her website, http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com to find out her latest news or to sign up for her newsletter. Shelley can also be found on FaceBook, Instagram @shelley.s.gray, or on Twitter @ShelleySGray.
Anything but Plain by award winning author, wordsmith extraordinaire, Suzanne Woods Fisher is a contemporary Amish Christian novel that is beautifully written and emotionally charged. I was immediately involved in the story and the lives of the characters.
There is so much to love about this book beginning with the information I gleaned from it. The author took on some huge family and life issues and dealt with them exemplary. From contrary family members to medical disorders this book had beautiful suggestions for resolutions. It even dealt with lying, making poor choices, using people, reconciliation, and forgiveness.
This is the story of Bishop David’s daughter, Lydia Stoltzfus, a nineteen year old unmarried girl. She seems to be an accident waiting to happen and is usually late wherever she goes. She and her neighbor, Nathan Yoder, also nineteen years old, have a special friendship. He wants to be an organic farmer, but is met with resistance from his father and brother.
Author Fisher has done extensive research in preparing for this book. I learned a lot about Lydie’s disorder, family reconciliation, and gardening/farming. This entire novel was so interesting and entertaining at the same time. There are so many interesting subplots that this was a real page turner. I had trouble putting it down because I wanted to see what would happen next. When it was over I still wanted more! I loved the story and characters that much.
At the beginning of the book, there is a listing of characters with a little about them. After the story are discussion questions, author notes, and recommended resources for additional help on Lydie’s medical disorder. I highly recommend this amazing book. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Anything But Plain
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Genre: Amish fiction
Release date: October 4, 2022
It’s not easy being the bishop’s daughter, especially for Lydie Stoltzfus. She’s not like other Amish girls, as much as she wishes she were. The only thing she does well is disappoint others. Leaving her family and church seems unbearable, but staying might be worse.
Knowing Lydie is “between” jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she’s going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder–the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he’s in love with her, but she knows she’s not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan’s father reminds her frequently.
As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of an uncommon disorder among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?
Suzanne Woods Fisher is a Christy finalist, a Carol Award winner, a two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, and the Publishers Weekly, ECPA, CBA, bestselling author of more than thirty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances, Amish romance, and women’s fiction. She and her husband live in a small town in California, where everyone knows everyone else, knows what they are doing and why. Most folks act a little nervous around Suzanne because they usually wind up in one of her novels. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young. Visit Suzanne at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
More from Suzanne
Easily Distracted? 8 Strategies to Help Stay Focused
Anything but Plain is a story about a young Amish woman with undiagnosed ADHD. Lydie Stoltzfus feels like a square peg in a round hole. She just doesn’t fit in and, to make matters worse, she’s the bishop’s daughter. At this point, the only path forward she can see is to leave Stoney Ridge. Leave her church, her friends, her family, her neighbor Nathan Yoder. It’s better to leave, Lydie decides, than to keep disappointing everyone she cares about. I won’t say anymore so that I don’t spoil the story for you.
ADHD is not a common diagnosis among the Amish and many might assume it’s not a real thing. Of course, they’re mistaken. ADHD is a real thing. While I don’t have ADHD, I do have many friends and family members who have been diagnosed. It’s challenging! And something we should all take seriously. Here’s why:
Evidence is mounting that a growing dependence on digital devices could be giving all of us some ADHD-like symptoms. Have you wondered if distractibility is becoming a problem for you? Or has a spouse or child or friend remarked on how often you pick up your phone to check a text message or scroll Instagram? You might remain physically present but your mind has wandered away. For me, the answer is, regrettably, yes.
There’s a recurring phrase in Anything but Plain that comes from an old-fashioned farming term: Walking the beans. Literally, it means weeding by hand. Figuratively, it means paying attention to our priorities. To pull the weeds before they take root.
One of the takeaway lessons of this book is to “walk the beans” of technology’s role in my life. So…I’ve been working on a few strategies. When I practice, I see a difference. Life is calmer. More manageable.
So…I wanted to pass these tips along to you. (If you have little children, these might not work for you. Not when your little ones are awake, anyway.) Hopefully, you’ll find them to be useful, and maybe spark some strategies of your own.
Make a plan. I start the day with an index card and write down the day’s priorities. And I check off tasks as I finish them!
Go off-line. Create an environment that helps you stay focused. Turn your cell phone to silent. If working on the computer, close your email app. Put yourself in distraction-free mode until you’re accomplished what you need to do
Finish one task before moving on to the next. Even little tasks.
Distractibility is at its peak during transitions. Build in margin. For example, arrive a few minutes early instead of rushing in a few minutes late.
When distractions are high, make tasks smaller and break down your large projects into smaller tasks to help you concentrate and give you a sense of accomplishment and progress.
When I’m facing a big task, I’ll break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Set a deadline for a task. Beat the clock! Use a timer.
Rewards! When I beat the clock, I’ll take a break from computer work and pop up to the garden, text a friend, walk the dog. Something that feels good.
Author Molly Jebber has written an outstanding Christian Amish historical romance with Magdelena’s Choice. This is Book 5 in her The Amish Charm Bakery series, but it can be read as a stand alone. It is so different from usual Amish stories. My interest was captured early, and I became invested in the story and characters.
Set in early 1900’s Charm, Ohio, this is Magdelena Beachy’s story. She is a lovely Amish girl, works in the bakery, and helps her family as all dutiful Amish daughters are taught to do. She and Toby Schlabach have had eyes for each other for a long time. She is from a wealthy Amish family but he is just an average guy. He wants to be able to support her before he proposes. Her father does not think Toby will ever be able to do that.
A new family moves into town. They have a lot of money and a son, Zach, that is interested in Magdelena. Her father seizes this opportunity to make some decisions that should be Magdelena’s.
The author has written a story full of timeless life lessons about greed, character, priorities, obedience, submission, love, hope, and trusting God. Characters are vibrant and come to life on the pages. It was easy to become engrossed in the story and be taken to Charm. I felt like I was there as I cheered in some places and shook my head in others.
I highly recommend this Amish novel. Any lover of Amish fiction will be delighted with it. Author Jebber writes realistic Amish books that are fascinating and this one is no exception. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Magdelena’s Choice
Author: Molly Jebber
Genre: AMISH HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Release date: January 25, 2022
As the daughter of a wealthy rancher, Magdelena Beachy may not truly need her job at the Amish Charm Bakery, but she enjoys tending to customers, be they neighbors or curious Englischers. Only one thing would make life sweeter, and that’s if Toby Schlabach would court her. It’s not just his dimples and smile that warm Magdelena’s heart—she admires his kindness and values. Yet she worries their chance may slip away . . .
With his daed ill and his mother and sister depending on him, Toby can’t yet offer Magdelena the future she deserves. But even as he nears his goal, he learns her father has arranged a match with another suitor. Magdelena risks shunning if she goes against her family. Choosing a path will take courage as well as faith—in God’s plan, and in this steadfast, tender love . . .
Molly Jebber is a best-selling and award-winning author of Amish Historical Romance. Molly’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly Best Ten lists, USA Today’s HEA, featured in live video on Naples News, many media outlets across the U.S. You’ll find her books on most stores the first three months of their release across the U.S, UK, Canada, and more. She’s been interviewed on television, and she’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, other women’s professional organizations, and she offers presentations on writing, agent or no agent, publishing, and marketing. She also speaks about the Amish lifestyles and traditions. She says the most rewarding part about writing stories is meeting wonderful readers who become friends through social media and at her speaking events. Please visit her website: http://www.mollyjebber.com for a full list of her books, speaking events and recipes.
She loves God, her family, and friends and Florida sunshine. She says yes to swimming, the beach, golf, and time with her family and friends, and no to coconut, onions, and skydiving!
More from Molly
Magdelena faces difficult decisions when having a difference of opinion with her parents. If she goes against them, she’ll face serious consequences. Sometimes we have family situations that arise, and they require us to search our heart for how to deal with them. Toby also faces hardship, tragedy, and being judged wrongly by others. Toby and Magdelena are sure God has a plan for their lives, but they’re not sure if they are following his will. They pray for guidance. You’ll enjoy their friends and how they come into play in this story. We all have friends we love, and memories we make with them. They root for us. The same goes for this couple. You’ll wonder what will happen next, and just when you think things are better, something else happens. I hope you enjoy the story. Don’t forget to sign up for a chance to win the grand prize at the end of this tour!
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