Christmas Every Day: An Amish Romance

by Linda Byler

Amish novelist Linda Byler spins a heartwarming tale set in Amish country at Christmastime. 

Annie and Fannie are twins and the youngest of twelve siblings. They're in the little Amish school's Christmas play, which they must practice for regularly, but what they're really passionate about is horses. Oh, what they would give to have a horse of their own to ride and groom and care for. It's all they can think about. Well, that and the way their older sister Anna is swooning over Isaac, a sixteen-year-old boy who goes to the hymn singings on Sunday evenings. And the way their sister Esther can't stop talking about Noah, the nineteen-your-old boy who asked to drive her home in his horse and buggy.

The twins have a hard time imagining being as boy crazy as their older sisters, but in an unexpected turn of events, they find themselves playing a crucial role in both sisters' relationships. Do they really want their beloved sisters to get married? Suddenly, they have a choice in the matter and must decide how they will wield their newfound power.

Delightfully sweet and brimming with the details of Amish life, this Christmas tale will leave readers smiling over the simplicity of Amish culture and the complexities of families and romance that transcend every culture.

Author Linda Byler is an active member of the Amish church and writes all her novels by hand with a pen and notebook. She offers a unique and fascinating look into Amish history and culture.

Genres: Christmas

248 pages, Paperback

Published September 5, 2023

About the author

Linda Byler grew up Amish and is an active member of the Amish church today. Growing up, Linda Byler loved to read and write. In fact, she still does. She is well known within the Amish community as a columnist for a weekly Amish newspaper. Linda and her husband, their children and grandchildren live in central Pennsylvania.

Reviews

[Liz Leadbetter · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was just ok

[Eunice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple story. More about the 10 year old twins, with the side story of how their older siblings find their spouses. Nice that it’s set at Christmas.

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this gentle tale set at Christmas time, author Linda Byler gives readers a look into Amish life. Ten-year-old twins, Annie and Fannie, are the focus of this story. With ten older siblings still at home, they are sometimes overlooked and often bossed around. Their mother is always busy, often stressed, and usually strict, especially, the twins believe, with them. Everyone has chores and responsibilities. The twins must deal with ornery chickens, collecting eggs and feeding them. And catching them when they get loose. At school, the teacher and scholars are busy preparing for the Christmas pageant. The twins are hoping for a horse for Christmas, even though they know in their hearts it could never be. And yet, they hope. This lovely novel is well written, with wonderful characters and an interesting storyline. The author explores the way some old world customs are changing a bit with the younger folk, much to the mother’s dismay. The end gives a glimpse into what the twin’s life will be as they get older. It’s a charming novel, a delightful read for any time, but especially at Christmas time.

[Kati Polodna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I know novellas are short but can we please get some character development? It read like an outline for a novel, more telling than showing.

[Angie Chadwell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to read an Amish tale written by an active member of the Amish community

[Linda Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very quick easy read! 10 year old twins the youngest in an Amish family connect falling in love and Christmas in the Amish culture and changing times.

[PottWab Regional Library]

E

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good book

[Nobody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a weakness for such happy stories.

[Mary Hotchkiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, as it was written from the eyes of the young twins.

[Gay Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Annie and Frankie are twin sisters and the last in their families 12 younsters. They feel left out and not real valued by the other members of the family. They really, really want to have their own horse and not to be bossed around. Readers will get a feel for how the children of large Amish families may feel around so many siblings. Not one of Linda Byler's best stories.