Showing posts with label Suzanne Woods Fisher. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Suzanne Woods Fisher. Show all posts

Anything But Plain by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Amish Fiction Review

Anything But Plain by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Anything But Plain
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Amish Fiction

Leaving Stoney Ridge feels unbearable--but how can she stay?

Impulsive Lydie Stoltzfus has always felt like a disappointment--a square peg in a round hole in her quiet Amish community. Leaving her family and church seems like her best move, even though it would mean leaving Nathan Yoder behind. Nathan claims he's in love with her, but she knows she's not good enough for him. And if she is ever in doubt, Nathan's father reminds her frequently.

Knowing Lydie is "between" jobs again, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. This gives Lydie time to figure out how she's going to say goodbye to Nathan--and it gives Dok ample time to recognize the symptoms of a disorder rare among the Amish. She offers Lydie treatment that has the potential to change her life.

But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?

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My Thoughts

In the midst of all the crazy going on in the world today, a trip to Stoney Ridge is a breath of fresh air. I was so excited to dive into this idyllic world when the book arrived on my doorstep. Suzanne Woods Fisher has created some endearing characters that make you eager to catch up on the latest in their lives.

This time the story centers on Lydie Stoltzfus who is the daughter of the Bishop. She's absolutely delightful but she's also a disaster just waiting to happen. These mishaps not only bother Lydie but they also frustrate those around her. The arrival of her grandmother just exacerbates the situation. Actually the arrival of grandma throws the whole household into chaos.

In the midst of this storm the only calm seems to be with Lydie's neighbor and childhood friend Nathan Yoder. He's been smitten with Lydie for some time but has been thrown for a loop when she suddenly decides to distance herself from him.

The story itself allows the reader to step inside the world of someone with ADHD. It's something that we hear about in the English world quite frequently but probably don't think much about it being present among the Amish. I thought it was very enlightening to picture how this disorder would be handled among the Plain community.

Of course the subject is serious, but do not fear that it would be an emotionally heavy read. Just when things get to be depressing you can always count on Hank Lapp bulldozing onto the scene to lighten thing up.

I absolutely adore a trip to Stoney Ridge and recommend this and other Stoney Ridge books to anyone who needs a little lift to their spirit.

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Suzanne Woods Fisher
Photo Credit: © Dan Davis Photography




Disclosure

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.









 

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A Season on the Wind by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Amish Fiction Review

A Season on the Wind by Suzanne Woods Fisher

A Season on the Wind
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Amish Fiction

Ben Zook was as free as a bird--until a chase for a rare White-winged Tern takes him to the one place on earth he planned to never return: his Amish home in Stoney Ridge.

Desperate for photographs of the elusive tern, Ben hires local field guide Micah Weaver, planning to "bag the bird" and leave Stoney Ridge before anyone recognizes him. But he neglected to plan for Micah's sister, Penny.

Ben had become Penny's spark bird during one long-ago summer, when she had introduced him to birding, even sharing with him a hidden eagle aerie. Penny always hoped Ben would come back to Stoney Ridge. Back to his Amish roots. Back to her.

The only problem? Ben has absolutely no memory of Penny.


Read an excerpt.
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My Thoughts

Are you a birder? I think you are really going to like this book. Are you a casual enjoyer of the birds around your house? I think you're going to like this book too! I must admit a couple of things. First I am in the latter category. I enjoy birds but have very little knowledge about them. Second, Suzanne Woods Fisher could write just about anything and I'm confident that I would enjoy it. So with that being said let me tell you what I thought about this particular book.

A Season on the Wind takes us back to the community of  Stoney Ridge. We get to catch up with a few of our old favorites like Hank and Edith Lapp. (By the way doesn't Hank remind you of your crazy uncle . . .over the top and somewhat annoying. But he belongs to you and you love him anyway!) We also get to meet some new faces. Siblings Penny and Micah Weaver are recent arrivals in Stoney Ridge. They have taken over the farm of their late grandmother and are busy settling in and getting Micah's local field guide business up and running. We also meet Ben Zook and his cousin Natalie. 

Ben is a world renowned birder and he has come back to Stoney Ridge to photograph the elusive White-winged Tern that has recently been spotted in Stoney Ridge. Unfortunately there is a whole lot of baggage associated with Stoney Ridge for Ben. 

Penny, Micah, Ben and Natalie all have some serious wounds in their past. Most of the events that caused the wounds seem impossible to reconcile . . .but God! Ms. Fisher does a beautiful job of telling their stories and letting us come along to see how God uses His creation (birds) to reach His creation (people). 

I fell in love with these new characters and look forward to them popping up again in future books. I just can't recommend this book enough. Whether you are a bird person or not, get this book for the pure enjoyment of the story.

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Suzanne Woods Fisher
Photo Credit: © Dan Davis Photography





Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book to facilitate my review.








 

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At Lighthouse Point (Three Sisters Island #3) by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Contemporary Romance Review

At Lighthouse Point by Suzanne Woods Fisher

At Lighthouse Point
Three Sisters Island #3
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Contemporary Romance

Blaine Grayson returns to Three Sisters Island with a grand plan--to take Camp Kicking Moose to the next level. Her dream starts to unravel when she discovers Moose Manor's kitchen has been badly remodeled by her sister, Cam, who doesn't know how to cook. Added to that blow is the cold shoulder given by her best friend, Artie Lotosky, now a doctor to the unbridged Maine islands.

As old wounds are opened, Blaine starts to wonder if she made a mistake by coming home. Little by little, she must let go of one dream to discover a new one, opening her heart to a purpose and a future she had never imagined.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to the coast of Maine for a story that reminds you to release what doesn't matter and cling to what does: faith, family, and friendships.

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Two Steps Forward (The Deacon's Family #3) by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Amish Fiction Review

Two Steps Forward (The Deacon's Family #3) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Two Steps Forward
The Deacon's Family #3
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Amish Fiction

Sylvie needs a man of substance to help her run her business.

What she gets is Jimmy Fisher.

Back and broke in Stoney Ridge, Jimmy Fisher has coasted through life as long as he could on charm, good looks, and deep-set dimples. They always worked just fine for him--until they didn't. His smile has no effect on the violet-eyed beauty he met at the Bent N' Dent, the one with that stunning horse. She's offered him a job, but nothing else.

The last thing Sylvie Schrock King needs around Rising Star Farm is a grown boy working for her, especially her neighbor Edith's son. The woman holds a serious grudge against Sylvie, and hiring Jimmy Fisher will only fan the flames of Edith's rancor. But Sylvie is desperate for help on the farm, and Jimmy understands horses like no one else.

While Jimmy's lazy smile and teasing ways steal Sylvie's heart, Edith is working on a way to claim her land. Has Sylvie made another terrible mistake?

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My Thoughts

For years now I have been enjoying trips to Stoney Ridge through the pages of Suzanne Woods Fisher's books. It's always nice to catch up with the characters and get introduced to new members. While this is an Amish community and I'm not Amish there are so many ways that I can relate to this group of people.

Ms. Fisher does a marvelous job of reminding us that even though we live a bit differently we still have a lot in common. Being Amish doesn't keep you from sorrow or strife. But it also doesn't keep you from experiencing joy and harmony. 

In Two Steps Forward the subjects of abandoned newborns and late term abortion are addressed. In the Amish community children are looked at as a blessing from the Lord so these two issues concern them greatly. I was impressed with their thoughts on making a difference, even if it only had the potential of making a small difference.

The novel introduced a couple of new characters but it was full of the old ones that we have come to know. Edith Fisher Lapp is still a cranky pants but this time around we get to see a bit of backstory and softening of character. Her husband Hank Lapp continues to make me laugh. Edith's son Jimmy Fisher is back, hat in hand and I enjoyed watching him come full circle. The book is centered on his character along with the widow Sylvie Schrock King.

One of the best things about this book and series is that it is very versatile. It can be read as either part of the series or as a stand alone. If you want my recommendation I would say to go all the way back to the first book in the first series, The Choice. You'll enjoy the development of the characters and the ebb and flow of the Amish life. Don't want to go that far back? Just start with this book. You'll get enough background as you go along to know what has happened before you joined the group.

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Suzanne Woods Fisher
Photo Credit: © Dan Davis Photography



Disclosure Statement

I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.


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Mending Fences (The Deacon's Family #1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Amish Fiction Review

Mending Fences (The Deacon's Family #1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Mending Fences
The Deacon's Family #1
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Amish Fiction

Every saint has a past. Every sinner has a future.

Luke Schrock is a new and improved man after a stint in rehab, though everyone in Stoney Ridge only remembers the old Luke. They might have forgiven him, but nobody trusts him. He has been allowed to live at Windmill Farm under two conditions. First, he must make a sincere apology to each person he's hurt. Second, he must ask each victim of mischief to describe the damage he caused.

Simple, Luke thinks. Offering apologies is easy. But discovering the lasting effects his careless actions have caused isn't so simple. It's gut-wrenching.

And his list keeps growing. Izzy Miller, beautiful and frustratingly aloof, also boards at Windmill Farm, and Luke's clumsy efforts to befriend her only insult and annoy her. Eager to impress, Luke sets out to prove himself to her by locating her mother. When he does, her identity sends shock waves through Stoney Ridge.

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My Thoughts

I love a fictional trip to the little community of Stoney Ridge. I've been reading about these characters from the beginning and always look forward to seeing what they have been up to since my last trip. When you read long series like this there are always characters that you wonder whatever happened to them. Luke Schrock is one of those people.

We first encountered Luke in The Inn at Eagle Hill series. His story continued with The Bishop's Family series. He was a mess and last we heard he was off to rehab. Well he seems to finally be finished after the third shot at it. But will he be different?

Amos and Fern Lapp have been known to take in troubled kids that need a bit of guidance. With great reluctance they agree to give Luke a place to stay in exchange for help on the farm. 

There's a new girl in town and her name's Izzy. She's a mystery to all of us but it was a joy to see her story unfold. Her character has so many layers. Just when you think you know all there is to know about her something else is revealed.

I don't think that I've ever read a book by Suzanne Woods Fisher that I didn't like. But I am going to say that this book has got to be my favorite so far. There are some things that are revealed at the end of the story that tie several previous events from previous novels together. And guess what . . . I didn't even realize that they were loose ends when I was reading those stories! You would think that after all of these books/series set in the same place with mostly the same people would become monotonous. But you would be wrong. I find them just as fascinating as I did with the first book. 

This is the beginning of a new series but it is also the continuation of a previous set of series. You can of course read this book without having read the previous books, but you would sorely miss out on some very good fiction. I say treat yourself and start at the beginning!

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Suzanne Woods Fisher
Photo Credit: © Dan Davis Photography



Disclosure Statement

I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 
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Phoebe's Light (Nantucket Legacy #1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Historical Romance Review

Phoebe's Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Book review disclosure.

Phoebe's Light
Nantucket Legacy #1
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Historical Romance

"Not today. I will not worry today."

Phoebe Starbuck has always taken care of her father--worrying enough for both of them, as he chases one whim after another. Now, for the first time, she's doing what she wants to do: marrying Captain Phineas Foulger and sailing far away from Nantucket. As she leaves on her grand adventure, she takes two gifts from her father, but desires only one: her great-grandmother's journal. The second gift? A "minder" in the form of cooper Matthew Macy, a man she loathes.

Phoebe soon discovers that life at sea is no easier than life on land. Lonely, seasick, and disillusioned, she turns the pages of Great Mary's journal and finds a secret that carries repercussions for everyone aboard the ship, especially the captain and the cooper.

Sail away with expert navigator Suzanne Woods Fisher, who confidently explores the sometimes treacherous shores of Quaker life on the storied Nantucket Island.

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My Thoughts

I think it is safe to say that Suzanne Woods Fisher is best known for her Amish fiction. With this new series, Nantucket Legacy, she is branching out to bring us insights into the beginnings of the Quakers in America. 

My family is descended from those original Quakers so I found this to be especially fascinating. The Quakers came to America because of oppression only to find persecution again on the mainland of America. This part of the story shows how they settled on Nantucket Island to get away from that persecution. It also tells the story of how the settlers went from raising sheep to becoming whalers. 

If you are worried about this being a mostly historical story, don't be. Suzanne brings her usual elements of romance, mystery, and suspense to the story. The romance between Phoebe and Matthew was wonderful but my favorite part was the love story between Phoebe and her father. 

The underlying story line is an old journal from Great Mary. I thought that Suzanne did a wonderful job of flashing back and forth between the current time of 1767 to the past of 1658. Great Mary was known to have deep insight into situations and through her journal Phoebe gains wisdom. The journal contains secrets that will help the current generation and generations to come. Knowing that there is a secret hidden within the journal it becomes the object of desire to those who would use it for self gain rather than the good of all. 

I just didn't want the story to end. I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment. Reading the sneak peek at the second book was torture! But I did enjoy all the extras that were included at the beginning and ending of the book. It was a win-win for me. I got to enjoy a delightful story and then learn some very interesting facts about our forefathers. 

Treat yourself and pick up a copy today!

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The Return (Amish Beginnings #3) by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Historical Romance Review

The Return (Amish Beginnings #3) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Book review disclosure.

The Return
Amish Beginnings #3
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Historical Romance

IN A WILD COUNTRY, THE TRUE
 COST OF LOVE MAY BE
MORE THAN THEY CAN BEAR.

Beautiful and winsome, Betsy Zook never questioned her family's rigid expectations, nor those of devoted Hans--but then she never had to. Not until the night she's taken captive in a surprise Indian raid. Facing brutality and hardship, Betsy finds herself torn between her pious upbringing and the feelings she's developing for a native man who encourages her to see God in all circumstances.

Greatly anguished by Betsy's captivity, Hans turns to Tessa Bauer for comfort. She responds eagerly, overlooking troubling signs of Hans's hunger for revenge. But if Betsy is ever restored to the Amish, will things between Hans and Tessa have gone too far?

Inspired by true events, this deeply layered novel gives a glimpse into the tumultuous days of prerevolutionary Pennsylvania through the eyes of two young, determined, and faith-filled women.

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My Thoughts

I have completely enjoyed this series! I've been reading Suzanne's books for quite some time so I am familiar with the Stoney Ridge community. It has been interesting to go back to the beginning and see how the community was established and meet the people who through faith and endurance brought it about.

The Return is the third and final book in this series. I think it can be read as a stand alone novel but of course you'll miss out on all the tidbits of what has gone on before to bring them to this point. Of the three books I felt like this one was the most dramatic and compelling. I hope that Ms. Fisher writes a follow-up series that continues on from here. While the story itself is complete there are still threads that I would like to follow and see where they lead.

One of the most interesting aspects of this novel was that it was based on factual happenings. The author's note at the end explains what parts of the story were true. In my opinion that is what gave this story and series such an intriguing sense of authenticity.

If you are a fan of historical fiction then I think you will like this book. The triumphs and pitfalls of our forefathers are presented in a compelling way and should make for a very compelling read. 

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Suzanne Woods Fisher
Photo Credit: © Dan Davis Photography



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The Quieting (The Bishop's Family #2) by Suzanne Woods Fisher | Contemporary Romance Review



The Quieting
The Bishop's Family #2
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Contemporary Fiction / Amish


IT WAS A WELL-LAID PLAN--
BUT IT WASN'T HER PLAN . . . 

It's all her grandmother's fault. For the last few months, Abigail Stoltzfus has helped her father with his genealogical research, hoping that breaking through a client's brick wall would also break his melancholy. But now her intrusive grandmother has set her sights on marrying off Abigail and insists she come to Stoney Ridge, where there is a plethora of eligible bachelors.

Except that Mammi is mistaken. There are no eligible bachelors in Stoney Ridge, barring one, and he's all wrong. Dane Glick has the wrong last name and the wrong relatives--including the bishop who is at odds over a church matter with Abigail's uncle, minister David Stoltzfus.

As the conflict grows, setting family against family, it's becoming clear that the path to a solution may lead to a Quieting--a removal of a church leader. But for which one? And when Abigail stumbles onto a curious connection during her genealogical research, it could help David solve one problem--but will it create another?

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My Thoughts

Suzanne Woods Fisher has long been one of my favorite authors of Amish fiction. She has a knack for using interesting situations in the context of an Amish setting. This time around she uses the topic of genealogical research.

Abigail Stoltzfus has joined her father in his research endeavors. Unfortunately for her, her mother and grandmother think she needs to settle down and get married. In order to achieve that her grandmother has insisted she accompany her to Stoney Ridge. 

Stoney Ridge is in the midst of it's own controversies. Bishop Glick and minister David Stoltzfus continue to see things differently and the tension in the community is mounting. Unfortunately Abigail is David's niece and the only eligible bachelor seems to be Dane Glick who is from the bishop's family. 

As events unfold it looks as if there is going to be a quieting among the people. I found this to be especially interesting. I've read many stories about shunning and banning but this is the first I've read about a quieting. A quieting is when a church leader is removed and it is a very serious and solemn event that grieves the entire community.

Fisher explores how misplaced pride really does lead to destruction. Not only for the individual but for the community. Once again this is a solid book that is both entertaining and introspective. If you like Amish fiction with more of a contemporary flair I think you will enjoy this book. 

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The Imposter (The Bishop's Family, Book 1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher {Book Review}



The Imposter
The Bishop's Family, Book 1
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Contemporary Romance

A heart once deceived should
not be easily fooled again . . .

Katrina Stoltzfus thought she had life and love all figured out: she was going to marry John and live happily ever after. But as her plans crumble before her eyes, she struggles to face an uncertain future. When a widow asks for help starting a new business, Katrina quickly agrees. She needs time to heal her broken heart, to untangle her messy life, to find a purpose.

What she doesn't need is attention from Andy Miller, a farmhand who arrives at the widow's farm just when help is most needed--and who always seems to say the right thing and be in the right place, at the right time. Is Andy for real or too good to be true? She's been deceived once before, and she isn't planning on experiencing it again.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge for a tale of love, uncertainty, and trusting God to write your story.

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My Thoughts

If you've ever been deceived by someone posing as someone they are not then you will instantly relate to Katrina Stoltzfus. Katrina thought that she was about to marry John and begin a life full of love and caring. Much to her dismay those plans changed leaving Katrina hurt, angry, and lacking the ability to trust.

When the opportunity to help her neighbor Thelma she jumped at the chance to get away. Unfortunately Thelma hired a farmhand by the name of Andy Miller. He's handsome and compassionate . . . all the things that irritate Katrina right now. Katrina decides to steer clear of Andy but of course he keeps popping up at just the right time. 

I enjoyed this journey back to Suzanne Woods Fisher's Stoney Ridge. It was nice to get a little glimpse of those familiar faces and catch up with what they have been doing since we last visited. But what I really liked was the story of Katrina's journey from betrayal to trust. Fisher tells the story of learning to trust God with everything, even the tough stuff. He has the ability to use everything, even hurtful things to bring about good in our lives. 

I believe that this is going to be another great series from Fisher. I look forward to hearing more about the old residents of Stoney Ridge and anticipate meeting some new characters as well. If you enjoy contemporary fiction with an Amish flavor definitely check this one out!



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The Heart Of The Amish by Suzanne Woods Fisher ~ Christian Living Review

The Heart of the Amish by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Book Review Disclosure

The Heart Of The Amish
Life Lessons on Peacemaking and the Power of Forgiveness
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Christian Living

We have all been hurt and we all have someone we need to forgive. But sometimes it's hard to let go of our hurt and anger in order to truly forgive and move on.

For the Amish, forgiving others in order to live at peace is woven into the very fabric of their faith. From daily annoyances to heartbreaking tragedy, they exhibit an incredible capacity for forgiveness that often baffles us. How do they do it? And how can we have the same attitude and ability to forgive?

Through true stories gathered from a variety of Amish communities, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher shows you how the Amish are able to release their pain and desire for revenge, and live at peace with others. Her in-depth, personal research uncovers the astounding yet fundamental way the Amish can forgive anyone from the angry customer at the grocery store to the shooter at Nickel Mines. You'll learn how to invite God into your story, apply lessons from the Amish to your own circumstances, and find the freedom that comes with true forgiveness.

Read an excerpt.
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My Thoughts

I've enjoyed so many of Suzanne Woods Fisher's books that center on the Amish. One common thread through each of those novels is the ability to live in community peaceably. The centerpiece of that seems to be their ability to forgive and move on. In most cases the bonds of those involved become strengthened.

In The Heart of the Amish, Suzanne takes us into the lives of real Amish, Mennonite and other Plain families. Through their sometimes heart-rending stories we're able to gain a better perspective on how it is possible to forgive not only the daily offenses but the truly unforgivable. 

Most people remember the tragic story of the Nickel Mines Amish schoolhouse shooting that made headlines across the nation. I remember being so amazed at the ability of the Amish families to not only forgive the shooter but to reach out in compassion to the shooter's family. Suzanne includes several interviews with people that were involved including the shooter's mother and wife. 

After reading through the book I found myself pondering how I have handled forgiveness. Each one of us has had the experience of needing to forgive someone or needing forgiveness from someone. It is a very humbling situation but also a very freeing experience when done correctly. I think we could all learn something from the Amish about extending and receiving forgiveness. I would recommend this book to anyone that struggles with forgiveness. The different stories are sure to resonate and allow you a glimpse of what life could be like. 

At the end of each chapter is a section entitled Reflections on Peacemaking. The preceeding situation is discussed and questions are asked to allow you to contemplate how you feel about it and what you would do in the situation. This book would be a good addition to a reading group that would be interested in a study of the Amish and their lifestyle.

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Suzanne Woods Fisher
Photo Credit: © Dan Davis Photography




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