5 comments about Sarah.

1. I truly enjoyed "SARAH". The in general writing is a "see Spot run" experience, but more important was the realness with which Mr. Eicher expressed the Amish way. I could feel his ownership of these happenings and their impact on an Amish life.
   
   I look forward to "SARAH'S SON". Thankyou Mr. Eicher
   
   Greatfylly, Peggy



2. I agree with the other comment about it now being on par with Wanda Brunstetter and Beverly Lewis novels. I doubt I will read other books by this author.



3. I agree that this book did not hold my interest! It went from one plot to another. I will not be reading any more of this authors books.



4. This is an excellent book. I really enjoyed reading this first book by a new (to me) author, Jerry Eicher.



5. this was a good book,written by a man but very good,close to brunstteter, nadia rehmani-author of sharper than a two edged sword-one woman's walk into islam and out.have a good day,

5 comments about Summerhill Secrets, Volume 2: House of Secrets/Echoes in the Wind/Hide Behind the Moon/Windows on the Hill/Shadows Beyond the Gate (Summerhill Secrets 6-10).

1. Again, I bought both volumes and was very disapointed to find that they are YOUTH FICTION. That should have been put in the ad. I am sure they are good. All of her books are but I don't want a childs book.



2. I have read all her books and I have not found one I did not like.
   Keeps you coming back for more.



3. This book was really good...I would ready the first volume first, though. I thought it was neat..any Amish lover would like it, as I did. It was different than the first book though.



4. I loved this book, as well as the first one. Want to know if the store will continue? It is a good clean storyline and lays out the way to salvation that anyone could understand. God Bless the writer.



5. book 2 of the summerhill secrets did not let me down. I am thrilled to have been able to read it. Loved it

5 comments about The Parting (The Courtship of Nellie Fisher, Book 1).

1. For me this was an important book. I had no prior knowledge concerning the Amish position on reading the bible. I had assumed that since they have given up the earthly world to embrace the plain world, they also read the word.
   
   I learned through the message of this book that the Amish do not read the word for themselves. The bishop's interpretation of the word is what they believe. Reuben's discovery of the word as he read the key to everlasting life is not through good works, but by embracing his belief in Jesus as the savior.
   
   As Reuben cherishes and rejoices the word, his fears and woes dissapate. He becomes born again of the spirit. Reuben's love for his wife takes a new direction, as does his love for his children. He cries for the first time as he hears the truth for the first time; Jesus died for us, for our sins. He learns about forgiveness and the power of individual prayer.
   
   Reuben wanted to share his love for others by sharing the word with all his family and friends. He and Manny want to start a bible study focusing on the books of the new testement. The bishop does not support their efforts. So the parting.
   
   Reading the bible for themselves becomes the parting of the Amish community. There are those who received the grace of God through their reading, and those who continue to join the bishop's Sunday services. So the tension throughout the community begins.
   
   I am anxiously awaiting for the second book in this series. I am awaiting to see where Ms. Lewis takes this thread. How the Amish resolve this critical threat to their old beliefs in the old world.



2. Beverly Lewis has a true gift for writing. Other authors may try to imitate and capitalize on her success of writing of the Amish, but their quality does not come close. Endearing characters that feel like longtime friends, heart wrenching plots all with a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel, and with God's help. I cried and laughed and anticipated with these characters. Anyone would truly love these novels and all her others, too. Beverly is a woman of God and it shows in her stories. I have read the others and was so disappointed. Nothing compares to Beverly, once you have read hers you will never be able to stomach the rest. You won't be able to put these books down!



3. I purchased this book some time ago but didn't start to read it until a few days ago. In an increasingly crowded market of Amish/Mennonite books, I was getting a little put off by the similar plots. But Beverly stands out in the crowd- this was a fantastic read. I can't wait for the next in the series to come out. She is able to keep the plot fresh and exciting. I highly recommend!!



4. Though not as rich and detailed as some of her previous works (particularly the Abram's Daughters series), The Parting is still a token of Beverly Lewis's sweet and meaningful stories. Nellie Mae Fisher and her family are grieving the accidental death of Nellie's younger sister, Suzy. Meanwhile, their Old Order Amish community is experiencing a radical change in its members' beliefs. And Nellie Mae is falling in love with Caleb Yoder.
   
   The way those factors interplay in Nellie's life does make for a good story. The interest level came at intervals for me; some sections of the novel are engaging and intriguing, while others are slow and almost overly detailed. Still, The Parting is an enjoyable read, particularly as it deals with faith issues in the Amish community.



5. I enjoy Lewis's books for the most part, mainly for the interesting characters, simple way of life, and storylines that are palpable for their emotions and challenges that the characters face. But this book really was a turkey. All I found was Lewis's overwhelming urge to convert all her readers to be born-again Christians. I am a happy Catholic, thank you, and I just want to read a good story, not be bombarded with the "right" way to live my life.
   
   The part that upset me the most was when the father never cried when his daughter Suzy died, yet once he discovers "the good word," he is constantly weeping. And it's not because this means his daughter has been saved and is now in heaven (as other characters start to believe); it's only for himself and knowing that's he's better than everyone else because he knows "the truth." I just can't swallow that.
   
   But, of course, I'll have to read the rest of the books in this series because they're like potato chips: once you read one, you can't stop! But if you're looking to read some of Lewis's series, I would forget this one and go for any of her other novels (esp. Abram's Daughters).

5 comments about A Sister's Test (Sisters of Holmes County, Book 2).

1. * Note I marked this as three stars, but Amazon is showing five and it will not edit*
   
   I'm really struggling with reading this series. This is the first (meaning this series) of Wanda Brunstetter for me to read and I'm just not sure what I think. I have read various authors of Amish Christian Fiction over the years, as well as many history books of the Amish dealing with my quilting addiction. I have never heard before of the Amish so often going to a Dentist, or Chiropractor, sure I've heard of them seeing a Doctor or go...more I'm really struggling with reading this series. This is the first (meaning this series) of Wanda Brunstetter for me to read and I'm just not sure what I think. I have read various authors of Amish Christian Fiction over the years, as well as many history books of the Amish dealing with my quilting addiction. I have never heard before of the Amish so often going to a Dentist, or Chiropractor, sure I've heard of them seeing a Doctor or going to the hospital under extreme circumstances, but it is very strange to hear of various Amish persons continually seeing a Chiropractor.
   
   This book picks up just a few weeks after the first one ends, and I really would like to say that there are more smiles and rose blossoms in reading the book of Job than there is in this book. I just do not understand how so much strife can continue one thing after another. I'm ready for some happiness! Geez, these books are depressing me. But, I refuse to just quit the author or the series, because surely as much strife is shown to be as possible there must be such happiness to compare. Because I know that as much as the Lord is one for taking, He also giveth!



2. Loved this book and the first one!! Actually to be correct I love all of wanda's books...they are uplifting and such a blessing to me!! I Love that she features such strong women and how they perservere through everything and their Faith comes out stronger than before!! thank you wanda for writting!! God Bless



3. Again Wanda Brunsetter has done it. This is another book that you just can't put down until you are done reading it. I can't wait for the next book in the series.A Sister's Test (Sisters of Holmes County, Book 2)



4. Wonderful books. I cannot put them down. I feel that I am in the story with the Amish. The books are easy to read as well. I would recommend to any age group.



5. Another great Amish story by Wanda Brunstetter. This one is a sequel to A Sister's Secret. You'll see many of hte characters from the first book, and also, a continuation of the mystery. If you haven't discovered Mrs. Brunstetter's books, by all means get started now. You're in for a treat.
   A Sister's Secret (Sisters of Holmes County, Book 1)

5 comments about Blessings: Sommerfeld Trilogy #3 (Truly Yours Romance Club #19).

1. A return to Sommerfield is like visiting old friends. And, if this is your first trip there, you will find yourself longing to stay.
   
   Trina Miller loves her Old Order Mennonite heritage and her small hometown. She also has a deep love for animals and has always had an affinity for caring for them. After sitting up all night with an ailing horse and the local veterinarian affirming her expert care of the animal, Trina wonders if a career in veterinary medicine could be possible.
   
   Her community has never allowed women to work or anyone to attend college. As she struggles with the rules of the community and the desires she is convinced God placed within her heart, she also faces heartbreak.
   
   Graham Ortmann and Trina love each other and desire to be married. However, Graham cannot support her desire to have a career. After all, shouldn't a woman's only desire be that of wife and mother? Is there room in his faith for a change in his tradition?
   
   Join Graham and Trina in their journey of faith and love and discernment of the plan of God. When tragedy strikes will it work to bring them together or tear them apart?
   
   Kim Vogel Sawyer closes the Sommerfield Trilogy with a powerful story of faith and true love. You will love the characters and a part of you will long for the simple life and faith of the townspeople. You may, like me, wish to visit Sommerfield again. And, if you haven't read the other two books, read this one and go out and get the others.



2. Beth and her husband are married and settled down, two year old twins light up Marie's home, and now Trina has an overpowering desire to become a veterinarian. Of course, this is frowned upon in the Mennonite community to which she belongs. Even the man she loves and plans to marry is against her decision. Can she succeed without them, or does she even want to?
   
   She has to fight and claw her way each time she tries to advance her dream. Beth allows her to use her computer to begin, but when her family finds out, the dream is cut off--again.
   
   Trina's father is so dyed in the wool Mennonite, he refuses to accept change, and certainly not having his daughter go away to college.
   
   In spite of her fiance coming over to her side and the support of her mother and the religious leaders, Trina's dream is again shattered as an automobile accident seriously injures her husband to be.
   
   Will she ever find her dream, or should she be content just to count her many blessings? A beautiful ending of this series. Thank you Kim.



3. I really enjoyed all 3 books in this series. They really keep you interested.



4. BlessingsTrina wants to be a vet. She is Mennonite and does not have even a high school education. Her dreams threaten to break up her relationship with her boyfriend/future husband, her immediate family, and her fellowship (congregation). Can she convince them that becoming a vet will help the community?
   Coincidently, I read this after reading Dear to Me by Wanda E. Brunstetter. Both deal with young women who want to be vets. Brunstetter writes of the Amish. Sawyer writes of the Mennonites. Besides that point, the books are completely different, especially the endings. If you have read one, go ahead and read the other.
   I have read all of Sawyer's other books: Blessings, Bygones, and Beginnings. This is by far her best. I used to think of her as second to Brunstetter, the obvious benchmark in this niche. Sawyer has come into her own place. All of her books stand alone, but go buy them all. Sawyer is an author to watch!



5. Trina Muller loves animals, and wants to be a veterinarin, but that would mean going way to college. Her parents and her church would never approve such a move. And she knows for sure Graham Ortman, the man she loves and wants to marry would never understand. She is working with Dr. Groening, the local vet, which only fans the flames of her desire to work with animals. Graham is furious with her. Doesn't she know that a woman's highest calling is to be a wife and a mother? How can she go against the teachings of the Old Order Mennonite? A strong story of love and commitment, of two young people trying to live their faith and still follow what they believe is God's plan for their lives.

5 comments about Rediscovering God in America: Reflections on the Role of Faith in Our Nation's History.

1. Once again Newt knocks the ball out of the park. One of the largest single issues facing America right now is the left's desire to take us on a path divergent to what our founders desired. One of the most important pieces of this nation's foundation is the morals and values brought by our religious heritage. This was extremely important to our founding father's and Newt points this out concisely.



2. Newt Gingrich's "Rediscovering God In America" (2006, 160-page hardback) is a great walking personal tour book for finding Christianity in Washington DC's monuments and government buildings. The final 18 pages presents a walker's map of DC and over 40 photos of the book's locations.
   
   This is a great tour book. Speaker Gingrich describes the historical backgrounds, religious foundations, and architectural presentations for the National Archives, Washington Monuments, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Viet Nam Veterans Memorial, the Capitol Building, the Supreme Court, and much more. The author's research also offers interesting colloquial stories for each location. Gingrich is an intuitive and persuasive historian.
   
   Everyone visiting these sites will want to have this pocket-sized text with them. This book is recommended to all interested in America's religious foundation, our nation's capitol, government architecture, and those soon to tour Washington DC.



3. Well, I liked the book. I have only been to Washington, DC twice, and each time I saw different monuments. But this book covered the monuments I have and have not seen, and with a perspective of showing the Godly influence on our nation. It makes me want to go spend a few more days in DC. I think Gingrich did a good job at drawing together speeches, historical context, and a walking tour of DC monuments. What would you expect from an historian?
   
   It was good. I would have liked it to be longer.
   
   I thought the section on FDR was remarkable. As was the section on the Viet Nam memorial.
   
   My favorite quote of the book: "The rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God." -- John F. Kennedy



4. I highly recommend this book! This is a great book for the coffee table, commute, green room, waiting room...anywhere, anytime. Gingrich conveys the rich faith of our founders and their intentions on recognizing God for His providence in the affairs of this blessed country. REDISCOVERING GOD IN AMERICA takes the reader on a concise historical journey of previous generations' marks of faith impressed on Washington, D.C.'s iconic institutions (i.e. White House, Jefferson Memorial, Capitol Hill, etc.) EVERY home and classroom in America should have a copy of this book! It will serve to offset the sweeping, and wholly inaccurate, historical revisionism that happens in most textbooks in our public schools and inform the next generation what a great country this still is and why. NOTE: Apparently there is now a corresponding DVD--which I'll be purchasing next. If it is even a shadow of the book, it will be a wise investment!



5. I learned so much about our country and our monuments from this short, easy to read book. Since reading Rediscovering God in America, I have visited our Nation's Capital with my family. I believe that reading this book helped me to appreciate all of the sacrifices and depth that the monuments represent.

No comments about Sarah's Son.

5 comments about Going Home (Brides of Webster County, Book 1).

1. I do enjoy the 1st book by Wanda E.Brunstetter,but i am still waitting for book#2&#3



2. I may be in a bit of a different position than many as I live among the Amish. In fact in a former Amish house. The Amish, as well as myself love her books. They are even carried in the local Amish country store. there are some authors that the Amish will NOT buy, due to a false portrayal of the Amish.
   
   Wanda gives a true portrayal of many of the Amish. You can't pigeon hole the Amish , anymore than you can English. their practices do vary from area to area, state to state and even Bishop to Bishop.
   
   Amish do leave the church and some return. I think the Amish way of life is simpler, and in some ways much better than us "English".
   
   While you are buying this pick up the Rachel Yoder books for the young girl in your life. MY 11 year old has eagerly awaited the 2 new books



3. In a unique way, Brunstetter takes the characters in Going Home and gives them a twist that one might not expect to see in a novel based in an Amish community. A young widowed woman, Faith, who has left the fold to explore the English world, has come home with her six-year-old daughter, but not to stay. She continues to be enamored with the world of entertainment and wants only a good home for her daughter. A young man, Noah, who prefers to bake over farming seems to be the disappointment of his father. Yet, the scripture verses he attaches to each baked gift uplift the recipient showing him that he is doing the Lord's work. Can these two people from the same background, yet from completely different worlds, find love that the Lord has intended for them? In another brilliant story, Brunstetter brings the reader into the Amish world as the lives of the characters unfold before your eyes.



4. I'm never disappointed when I pick up a book from Wanda Brunstetter. Her account of the Amish faith is so accurate. I enjoyed Going Home; it shows how important family ties are. I also read On Her Owna and Dear to me fromt he Webster County Series. I can't wait for the final book.
   
   My parents were both raised Amish and left when they married. I still enjoy reading about the Amish....especially the way Wanda brings families to life.



5. I love reading about the Amish and I believe Mrs. Brunstetter's books are the best! Going Home is a great book that I would recommend to anyone. One of the reasons I love this book is because it shows a softer side of the Amish, especially the men. Some people think the Amish are unforgiving when it comes to family members leaving the Faith, but this book proves that to be a wrong assumption. It also shows how an Amishman can farm or do any other "man's work" and still love to do other things, such as baking.
   
   I love to use Mrs. Brunstetter's books as a witness to my non Christian loved ones.

5 comments about Summerhill Secrets, Volume 1: Whispers Down the Lane/Secret in the Willows/Catch a Falling Star/Night of the Fireflies/A Cry in the Dark (Summerhill Secrets 1-5).

1. What a nice way to see a young girl grow up .You suffer Her pain and live Her joy.Also you get to know the amish from the non amish point of view. It was great to see how they co-mingle , and care for all people .



2. Summerhill Secrets is a super novel about a 15 yr. old girl, Merry, who follow's God's law and grows as a teenage Christian. The 5 stories in this book are very well written and interesting. This book was a quick read, but still awesome and I learned a lot about the Amish too. Have fun with Merry as she experiences everyday things teenagers can experience today. Summerhill Secrets by Beverly Lewis is definitley a 5 star, must read, book for any Christian teen.



3. I did not know that it was a book for teenager girls but I enoyed it immensely. It was entertaining.



4. I love Beverly Lewis as an author, this is why I order this book. Either I didn't see it or it wasn't listed, but this book is written for pre-teens or teenagers. I was disapointed needless to say. Young girls should like it.



5. this was a terrific book, could not put it down. But couldn't wait to get started on book 2 Loved it

5 comments about On Her Own: Brides of Webster County, Book 2 (Truly Yours Romance Club #17).

1. Wanda is trying but her books are not very good. Comparing them to Beverly Lewis is the problem because Beverly is SOOOO good. Wanda's books were dry, unemotional, rushed and shallow. Many of the plots don't make sense and a lot of what is done would never happen in an Amish community or home. She needs to get inside her characters a LOT more. I also found a lot of errors in grammar and typos in the text in all the books of hers i have read. I have never seen so many errors. This tells me they are rushing her to write and rushing everything to print to make a buck and trying to capitalize off of Beverly Lewis' excellent success writing about the Amish.
   I read Wanda's books out of boredom and waiting for the next Bev Lewis to come out. It wasn't worth the $13.00 but if you can get them for free at the library and you have some time to kill AND you truly cannot find anything else to read (how about some Jane Austen?)... then go for it but don't expect much.



2. This book was in excellent shape when it arrived and the shipping time was very good. I am pleased with Amazon. I shall continue to use Amazon in the future.



3. No woman rejoices at widowhood. The loss of a spouse often feels like the end of the world. It is no different for Barbara Zook who loses her beloved David and is left to raise her son's and run his harness shop. Once again, Brunstetter's strong characters are evident in this charming love story. Barbara knows she is expected to remarry, but her heart's desire is not to become Bishop John's wife and mother to his four daughters. She wants to keep the harness shop open and running for her sons. After hiring Paul Hilty to work in the shop after she gives birth to her fourth son, Barbara finds her feelings for him to be roaming every-which-way. But rumors and speculation have Paul thinking Barbara is planning to marry Bishop John. With this knowledge, Paul seemingly gives up and plans to leave Holmes County. Can Barbara push the sorrow aside find love again with Paul? Or is it too late?



4. On Her Own: Brides of Webster County, Book 2 (Truly Yours Romance Club #17)
   Wanda Brunstetter has done an excellent job drawing the reader into the private life of Barbara Zook. After losing her husband she is faced with the reality of raising four boys and also running a harness shop.
   
   Paul Hilty agrees to oversee the harness shop for her as she awaits the birth of her fourth child and until she gets back on her feet.
   
   Bishop John Frey is looking for a mother for his teenage daughters after the death of his wife and Barbara wonders if he would be the right one that God would have for her even though she still loves her dead husband. She is attracted to Paul also. She prays that God would help her in her dilema.



5. Barbara gives birth to her fourth son, conceived just a month before her beloved husband was killed. She is determined to keep their business going, a harness shop which she loves. However, her strength does not return as quickly as she planned, and she must have help. There were several other deaths in the community, with several left to fend for their families and find new loves. While I loved some of the characters in this book, I felt it was way too obvious and not very innovative as far as Amish stories are involved. However, I will buy book three.