Sharon R. Paavola

Life moments and Book Reviews

The Newcomer – Book 2 of Amish Beginnings – Compelling!

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The NewcomerThe Newcomer by Suzanne Woods Fisher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Newcomer, the second in the Amish beginnings series by Suzanne Fisher Woods holds more than an Amish story. Finding your true self, staying loyal to family, or holding onto the past are themes throughout the novel. Anna has loved Bairn since her time on the ship coming over to America but he has changed since finding his real family. Bairn only knows the sea and remains in turmoil with his choices now that he has found his kin.
As the settlers land, they discover their dreams will be harder to accomplish and many obstacles unknown to them stand in their way. Someone new to them aids them on their way, but Bairn’s parents seek the land that his father purchased for the community and he opposes their decision. This fascinating story even includes Benjamin Franklin and held my attention to the last page.
I look forward to the next installment of the Amish Beginnings series.
I received a copy of The Newcomer from NetGalley for my honest opinion which I have given.

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Cross the Atlantic with the Amish!

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Anna's Crossing (An Amish Beginnings #1)Anna’s Crossing by Suzanne Woods Fisher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The fascinating story of one ship sailing to America in the late 1700’s with an Amish contingent is contained in Anna’s Crossing! Anna wants to go home before they even reach England from Rotterdam and the whole trip across the ocean is ahead of her. None of her family is with her but she brings her beloved rose plant with her hoping it will grow in the new land. How will she deal with the rough sea, the odors of the living quarters, and the ship’s carpenter for days and weeks to come? The reality of making the trip to America for freedom is a daunting, overwhelming ordeal for the Amish and Mennonites on the Charming Nancy who are relegated to the lower deck in cramped quarters for an unknown period of time. Will their supplies last, will the weak live, will the rain continue to fill their barrels? Will their faith see them through? Will Anna come to grips with her destiny in the new land away from her beloved grandparents? Suzanne Woods Fisher has written a history filled account of these strong, fictional characters that you will grow to love. Each page leaves you anticipating their future. I highly recommend this enlightening book.

I received an e-copy of this book in return for my honest review by NetGalley.

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Divine Christmas Story!

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Christmas at Rose Hill Farm: An Amish Love StoryChristmas at Rose Hill Farm: An Amish Love Story by Suzanne Woods Fisher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh, my Christmas is on its way! This story will touch your heart and bring the Christmas season to full bloom. I loved this book and its characters. Since I am a rose lover and grower the focus on old roses added another great dimension. A darling Amish couple, Bess Riehl and Amos Lapp are headed toward their wedding day in a few weeks. Amos is preparing to paint their apartment over his family’s barn as Bess’ family finishes her dress. In the midst of all this, Bess discovers an old rose in the greenhouse. They own many old roses as part of their thriving rose business, but this one has been hiding. This rose brings with it a history that changes everyone’s life as Christmas approaches. I became more absorbed as the pages went by with several twists and turns added in. This quick read involves several Amish families in need of forgiveness, honesty, and grace which the author delivers beautifully. This is a must read for the Christmas season especially if you collect Christmas books. I stayed in a bath gone cold to finish it!

I highly recommend Christmas at Rose Hill Farm: An Amish Love Story by Suzanne Woods Fisher.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by The Book Club Network.

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