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Annie's People #1
The Preacher's Daughter
A new series from The New York Times best-selling author of the Abram's Daughter's series. The Preacher's Daughter begins a remarkable journey of heartache and homespun delight - a series readers will find impossible to forget. Paradise, Pennsylvania, is likened to a little slice of heaven on earth...but for Annie Zook - the preacher's eldest daughter, it seems like a dead-end street.
She is expected to join the Amish church, but at 20 she is still deciding. Because of the strict rules that guide the Plain community, she must continually squelch her artistic passion, although it has become her solace.
In her signature style, with character depth and unexpected plot twists, beloved novelist Beverly Lewis once again opens the door to the world of the Amish.
She is expected to join the Amish church, but at 20 she is still deciding. Because of the strict rules that guide the Plain community, she must continually squelch her artistic passion, although it has become her solace.
In her signature style, with character depth and unexpected plot twists, beloved novelist Beverly Lewis once again opens the door to the world of the Amish.
350 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
663 people are currently reading
3971 people want to read
About the author
Beverly Lewis
259 books3,014 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country and both a schoolteacher and an accomplished musician, has been an award-winning author for over a dozen years. Her acclaimed novel, The Preacher's Daughter, was a 2006 Quill Book Award finalist in the romance category. Her books have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and The New York Times. She and her husband, David, live in Colorado."
Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country and both a schoolteacher and an accomplished musician, has been an award-winning author for over a dozen years. Her acclaimed novel, The Preacher's Daughter, was a 2006 Quill Book Award finalist in the romance category. Her books have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and The New York Times. She and her husband, David, live in Colorado."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 448 reviews
February 17, 2011
I have a confession to make. I love Beverly Lewis Amish books. I'm not entirely sure why. Though pretty well written, I wouldn't exactly call them great literature. They tend to be somewhat formulaic. You generally have a three book series about a specific girl, her family, her best friend, her love interest, and her difficulty with her Amish upbringing, whatever that may be. When I read one of these series, I don't even post it on here because I'm somewhat embarrassed. That may be silly of me, but vanity is just that.
So 4 stars because I really liked this first installment in "Annie's People." Annie is 20, putting off baptism because of her love of drawing and painting, which her particular congregation forbids. She has an Englisher best friend/pen pal who, as she's going through some trials of her own, decides to come to Amish country for an extended visit. It's a story of family and friendship, duty to the People vs being true to one's self. As is usual, there is a fair amount of deceit and also mystery. And as a Mormon, it's interesting to see this "saved" Christian author handle the very works-driven Amish belief system. I find my theology tends to fall somewhere in the middle of these two extremes.
I don't know that I'd recommend these books to just anyone ... I think some of my friends may find them boring or hokey. But they are clean, there's always a good love story or two mixed in, and always happy endings, though they never arrive until the very end of book 3. I guess the good news is that if you try them out and like them, Lewis is nothing if not prolific. :)
So 4 stars because I really liked this first installment in "Annie's People." Annie is 20, putting off baptism because of her love of drawing and painting, which her particular congregation forbids. She has an Englisher best friend/pen pal who, as she's going through some trials of her own, decides to come to Amish country for an extended visit. It's a story of family and friendship, duty to the People vs being true to one's self. As is usual, there is a fair amount of deceit and also mystery. And as a Mormon, it's interesting to see this "saved" Christian author handle the very works-driven Amish belief system. I find my theology tends to fall somewhere in the middle of these two extremes.
I don't know that I'd recommend these books to just anyone ... I think some of my friends may find them boring or hokey. But they are clean, there's always a good love story or two mixed in, and always happy endings, though they never arrive until the very end of book 3. I guess the good news is that if you try them out and like them, Lewis is nothing if not prolific. :)
September 2, 2019
Calming, sweet and yet turmoiled all at the same time. Definitely look forward to read the rest of the series at some point :)
March 14, 2020
Book on CD read by Aimee Lily
From the book jacket: For Annie Zook, the only daughter of an Old order Amish preacher, the “Plain and simple life” is anything but plain and simple. She juggles conflicting desires and closely guarded secrets – a “fancy” friend, a secret room, and an unthinkable dream … while a long-ago mysterious disappearance weighs heavily on her heart.
My reactions
I think Lewis’s ambitions got away from her. There is just too much going on in this novel and none of if it satisfactorily explored. There’s that mysterious disappearance from the past, which is worthy of a novel all its own. Those events haunt not only Annie, but Zeke as well. Then there’s Zeke and Esther’s marriage difficulties, which would certainly make an interesting story. And the central story of the preacher’s daughter, Annie, who is pulled to expressing herself in painting, though it is forbidden, and who is encouraged by her English friend, Louisa (who is running for an all-but-arranged marriage).
I think Lewis does have a knack for exploring the Amish and Mennonite cultures, and contrasting their perspectives against those of modern-day America. I’m glad she gives voice to people who struggle with the basic tenets of faith and a way of life that may not completely suit them. This is the first in a series (“Annie’s People”) and I may read another.
I didn’t realize until I started the CD that it was an abridged version. Aimee Lily seems to do a good job, but I abandoned the audio for the text version so I could fill in the blanks left by the abridged audio.
From the book jacket: For Annie Zook, the only daughter of an Old order Amish preacher, the “Plain and simple life” is anything but plain and simple. She juggles conflicting desires and closely guarded secrets – a “fancy” friend, a secret room, and an unthinkable dream … while a long-ago mysterious disappearance weighs heavily on her heart.
My reactions
I think Lewis’s ambitions got away from her. There is just too much going on in this novel and none of if it satisfactorily explored. There’s that mysterious disappearance from the past, which is worthy of a novel all its own. Those events haunt not only Annie, but Zeke as well. Then there’s Zeke and Esther’s marriage difficulties, which would certainly make an interesting story. And the central story of the preacher’s daughter, Annie, who is pulled to expressing herself in painting, though it is forbidden, and who is encouraged by her English friend, Louisa (who is running for an all-but-arranged marriage).
I think Lewis does have a knack for exploring the Amish and Mennonite cultures, and contrasting their perspectives against those of modern-day America. I’m glad she gives voice to people who struggle with the basic tenets of faith and a way of life that may not completely suit them. This is the first in a series (“Annie’s People”) and I may read another.
I didn’t realize until I started the CD that it was an abridged version. Aimee Lily seems to do a good job, but I abandoned the audio for the text version so I could fill in the blanks left by the abridged audio.
September 30, 2011
This book made me loose a little of my faith in humanity. How could writing this bad be this popular? I read it out of curiosity for the "bonnet ripper" phenomenon, and because a class I work with discusses the Amish. But- REALLY? Don't even get me started on the trite, cliche phrasing. The "modern" character who's supposed to have "hip" language sounds like my grandma wrote her dialogue. And literally, NOTHING happened for most of the book. This is definitely a one-book plot stretched out over three books so publishers can sell more paper. I think boiling a whole way of life down to a romanticized, one-dimensional view is a little condescending, and it bugged me that none of the characters stepped outside of their preconceived bounds. I was very interested in the art vs. religion dilemma, but even this was left largely unexplored. Finishing it was chore, and I won't be reading any more. Oh-- and someone needs to tell the author that nobody places calls from their "Palms" anymore. They're called smart phones now. Even the "good Lord" himself couldn't help this novel, "denki" very much.
January 17, 2009
The Preachers Daughter was a really good book about this girl annie who is amuish and besides her love for God, she has a love for art, but in her community she can't be interested in art because it is worldly so she hides her talent and love for art. But When her pen pal, laura she has been writting to all these years as some issues of her own and also is an artist that annie can relate to!! laura ends up coming to annie's community to get away from somethings from her home town chicago!!! Annie is basically the only girl who hasn't gotten married yet since her love of art is in the way of her having love for anyone else especially one of the amush guys she was courted by but wasn't commited to him because of her love of art. with her love of art and having to be baptised to the church, which one would she choose a. turn from the amush with her friend and enjoy her art, or b. turn from her love of art and join the church? you need to read this book to find out.
October 24, 2014
Beverly is famous for her books about the Amish, and this book is no exception. It's the first in a new series for her (Annie’s People).
Annie (the preacher’s daughter) has a talent for art, but the Amish are forbidden to use this talent. She also has a “English” pen pal named Louise who is an artist. Louise comes to visit Annie for a while, and they become the best of friends. I felt like the book didn’t really end—it was more like book 1 of 2 (or 3 or 4…). Book 2, which comes out in May, is entitled “The Englisher,” so I’m sure that it will be a continuation of these two women’s story.
Annie (the preacher’s daughter) has a talent for art, but the Amish are forbidden to use this talent. She also has a “English” pen pal named Louise who is an artist. Louise comes to visit Annie for a while, and they become the best of friends. I felt like the book didn’t really end—it was more like book 1 of 2 (or 3 or 4…). Book 2, which comes out in May, is entitled “The Englisher,” so I’m sure that it will be a continuation of these two women’s story.
November 16, 2018
I was going to give this book four stars.... But after the ending and how frustrated it made me, I decided that giving out four stars is too nice. I'll go into what I didn't like after I try to be positive for a few moments, but I think the main reason I didn't like this book too much is because of personal opinion that is just me.
The Good Things About This Book:
My favorite character in the whole book is Annie. I found myself relating to her the most in the novel. I loved her passion for art and the way she uses it to find God's beauty. I love how she follows the ways of her people and submits herself in the proper way toward men. She didn't submit herself when a man was being abusive and she stood up for herself when necessary. (some of the time anyway.)
And Louisa was pretty cool. I love how she would put on Amish dresses to fit in and how she didn't complain because things are different to how she was used to living to.
Muffin the cat was so cute.
All the art in this book gave me all the feels and made me so happy.
And the mystery of the kidnapping/murder of this young Amish kid, made the story very interesting.
Why I Was SOOO Frustrated With This Book:
So, I'll try to mark any spoilers, but beware.
Okay, first off the story took forever to take off. LIKE FOREVER!!!! I couldn't connect with any of the characters, I wanted more of the side characters to have more of a role (like Annie's brothers, hello!). I was extremely bored, and I kept yelling the characters to "JUST LEAVE YOUR SITUATION ALREADY!!!!" Really, I thought that if the characters just leave, they would not have the current problems they were having, they would just open a different can of worms, but everyone knows that worms can catch a nice fish for supper (if you eat fish anyway, lol. Because I don't.) Anyway, I felt the book didn't start picking up until like 30-50% or something like that.
Finally, at last Louisa did leave her situation causing things to get a little better.
Okay.... So there is also was very abusive situation going on between Esther and her husband Zeke. And then this happens:
Then at the end of the novel, I knew this was coming, BUT NOT LIKE THIS!!!
Content in Book:
1. Abuse (physical, verbal, emotional, and spiritual)
2. A kidnapping and possible murder (they found someone's remains buried in someone's field.)
3. A baby getting born. (Non-descriptive)
Will I Read the Other Books In this Series???
No. Look, I like Beverly Lewis's books a lot. She is a fantastic author and I totally recommend her. But, this particular book made me too upset to continue so I don't think I will continue with the series (and I believe I know how it's going to end and honestly don't want to have to read it). I will read other series by Beverly Lewis though, because as I said, she is a fantastic author.
The Good Things About This Book:
My favorite character in the whole book is Annie. I found myself relating to her the most in the novel. I loved her passion for art and the way she uses it to find God's beauty. I love how she follows the ways of her people and submits herself in the proper way toward men. She didn't submit herself when a man was being abusive and she stood up for herself when necessary. (some of the time anyway.)
And Louisa was pretty cool. I love how she would put on Amish dresses to fit in and how she didn't complain because things are different to how she was used to living to.
Muffin the cat was so cute.
All the art in this book gave me all the feels and made me so happy.
And the mystery of the kidnapping/murder of this young Amish kid, made the story very interesting.
Why I Was SOOO Frustrated With This Book:
So, I'll try to mark any spoilers, but beware.
Okay, first off the story took forever to take off. LIKE FOREVER!!!! I couldn't connect with any of the characters, I wanted more of the side characters to have more of a role (like Annie's brothers, hello!). I was extremely bored, and I kept yelling the characters to "JUST LEAVE YOUR SITUATION ALREADY!!!!" Really, I thought that if the characters just leave, they would not have the current problems they were having, they would just open a different can of worms, but everyone knows that worms can catch a nice fish for supper (if you eat fish anyway, lol. Because I don't.) Anyway, I felt the book didn't start picking up until like 30-50% or something like that.
Finally, at last Louisa did leave her situation causing things to get a little better.
Okay.... So there is also was very abusive situation going on between Esther and her husband Zeke. And then this happens:
Then at the end of the novel, I knew this was coming, BUT NOT LIKE THIS!!!
Content in Book:
1. Abuse (physical, verbal, emotional, and spiritual)
2. A kidnapping and possible murder (they found someone's remains buried in someone's field.)
3. A baby getting born. (Non-descriptive)
Will I Read the Other Books In this Series???
No. Look, I like Beverly Lewis's books a lot. She is a fantastic author and I totally recommend her. But, this particular book made me too upset to continue so I don't think I will continue with the series (and I believe I know how it's going to end and honestly don't want to have to read it). I will read other series by Beverly Lewis though, because as I said, she is a fantastic author.
April 10, 2009
This is my first Beverly Lewis novel and I loved it. 'The Preacher's Daughter' is the first book in a series called "Annie's People". The second is "The Englisher" which I'll be reading next.
From back cover:
"The Preacher's Daughter begins the captivating new series ANNIE'S PEOPLE and introduces an Amish community in Paradise, Pennsylvania - a heavenly sounding place, but one that has seen its share of heartache and mystery. A moving story of friendship, secrets, and love.
Annie Zook, the only daughter of an Old Order Amish preacher, wants to please her parents and her Plain community, but a hidden passion stands in the way. Creating fine art is strictly forbidden by Annie's church district. Her secret has already cost her the affection of handsome Rudy Esh. She must choose between her art and the People...the only life she knows.
Louisa Stratford, Annie's longtime pen pal, is a modern Denverite who shares Annie's love of art. When Louisa escapes her own problems to go to Paradise for a taste of the simple life, will she nudge Annie closer to all she has known and loved...or tempt Annie to pursue her own dreams?"
From back cover:
"The Preacher's Daughter begins the captivating new series ANNIE'S PEOPLE and introduces an Amish community in Paradise, Pennsylvania - a heavenly sounding place, but one that has seen its share of heartache and mystery. A moving story of friendship, secrets, and love.
Annie Zook, the only daughter of an Old Order Amish preacher, wants to please her parents and her Plain community, but a hidden passion stands in the way. Creating fine art is strictly forbidden by Annie's church district. Her secret has already cost her the affection of handsome Rudy Esh. She must choose between her art and the People...the only life she knows.
Louisa Stratford, Annie's longtime pen pal, is a modern Denverite who shares Annie's love of art. When Louisa escapes her own problems to go to Paradise for a taste of the simple life, will she nudge Annie closer to all she has known and loved...or tempt Annie to pursue her own dreams?"
July 28, 2024
3.5 stars. This book is definitely a series starter so a lot of plot lines are started, but not a ton actually happens in this book. The book follows Annie, a preacher's daughter in an Amish community. She is about of the age where she needs to decide if she wants to stay in the community or become English. Her English penpal comes to visit because her engagement just ended and she wants some time to live the simple life. We also get the story of a boy who went missing or was killed years ago and some people are trying to keep it from being discovered, but theres not much about that. We get the story of her best Amish friend Esther (Essie) and her terrible husband. She is being banished because she stands up for herself. Finally, we get introduced to an English boy that Annie meets and they're attracted to each other.
August 26, 2016
All these Amish books seem just the same...
September 26, 2022
I had this book on my Kindle for a long time and finally read it. I just couldn't put it down!
I identified with the main characters and a certain supporting character in a big way. Parts of the story were difficult to read because they brought up some very triggering memories from the past. The author really described those feelings so well.
The story drew me right in. I wish the ending had resolved some things—it seems like so much is left hanging! Then again, this is book one of a series. I definitely want to read the rest of Annie's People.
I identified with the main characters and a certain supporting character in a big way. Parts of the story were difficult to read because they brought up some very triggering memories from the past. The author really described those feelings so well.
The story drew me right in. I wish the ending had resolved some things—it seems like so much is left hanging! Then again, this is book one of a series. I definitely want to read the rest of Annie's People.
May 18, 2020
I enjoy reading about Amish lifestyles.
October 2, 2016
This book has 4 different plots all moving at the same time. 3 of them are interesting and relatively engaging. Oh sure, the writing is subpar and written in a way that implies "young adult" instead of "adult fiction." But these plots - Annie's struggle between religion and art, Esther's attempt to escape an abusive household, and a 10+ year old mystery of a murdered boy are all worth reading about.
But then...there's...LOUISA. Louisa is HORRIBLE. She's the completely unnecessary "Englisher" of the book who comes to live with the Amish after a breakup. She comes from a wealthy household in Colorado and her sections are written in a way that's supposed to emphasize this point of view - except she doesn't come off as a wealthy Colorado girl because she doesn't come off as HUMAN. None of her motivations make ANY sense - she hates her fiance because he actually cares about and likes his job and wants to succeed at it - which is probably important since she all but admits she can't support herself. She hates her parents because they set her up with her fiance - even though they got along great after they met. Everything in her POV references "Louisa's Mercedes, Louisa's smart phone, Louisa's jaccuzzi tub, Louisa's Palm" - NOBODY THINKS LIKE THIS. Oh and the attempts to give her "modern day" slang dialogue is SO cringe-inducing. Are you listening Beverly Lewis? DO NOT TRY TO WRITE IN MODERN SLANG.
Louisa is the Cousin Oliver to this Brady Bunch. Make Louisa go away.
But then...there's...LOUISA. Louisa is HORRIBLE. She's the completely unnecessary "Englisher" of the book who comes to live with the Amish after a breakup. She comes from a wealthy household in Colorado and her sections are written in a way that's supposed to emphasize this point of view - except she doesn't come off as a wealthy Colorado girl because she doesn't come off as HUMAN. None of her motivations make ANY sense - she hates her fiance because he actually cares about and likes his job and wants to succeed at it - which is probably important since she all but admits she can't support herself. She hates her parents because they set her up with her fiance - even though they got along great after they met. Everything in her POV references "Louisa's Mercedes, Louisa's smart phone, Louisa's jaccuzzi tub, Louisa's Palm" - NOBODY THINKS LIKE THIS. Oh and the attempts to give her "modern day" slang dialogue is SO cringe-inducing. Are you listening Beverly Lewis? DO NOT TRY TO WRITE IN MODERN SLANG.
Louisa is the Cousin Oliver to this Brady Bunch. Make Louisa go away.
Read
September 4, 2007annie zook has quite a dilemma. as the daughter of an old order amish preacher, she is forbidden to pursue her talent in art. but she is driven to continue secretely, hiding her art studio and masterpieces at an art studio. the only one who knows this is annie's worldly pen pal louisa, who has problems of her own after breaking off her engagement with her materialistic boyfriend. louisa feels that she needs a change of pace and asks to come visit annie and her family. louisa's designer jeans make quite a splash in amish country, though she soon adapts to the native dress. annie is thrilled to have a fellow artist (annie is an art teacher) but soon her dilemma about choosing her art or the amish church comes to a head. [return][return][return]style characterisics: pacing, clarity, structure, narrative devices, etc.[return]lewis does a wonderful job of creating realistic characters and drawing the reader into an empathy with their dilemmas. the contrast of louisa's rich worldy background with annie's created some good scenes, like when louisa joins annie at an amish singing where couples usually pair up for courting. subplots with an abused wife and a possible romance add even more tension to keep the reader turning the pages. [return][return][return]how good is it?[return]excellent
May 6, 2011
Having lived in Wayne County in Ohio for 15 years, I have had some experience with the Amish and had heard about these books but never picked one up until it was on the freebie shelf at the library. Funny thing is now I live near Lancaster, Pennsylvania - so both places were mentioned in the book. I had to laugh when Annie mentioned the hitching post outside Walmart (at least I think it was Walmart)because I could visualize it from the hitching post at the Walmart in Wooster, Ohio where I used to live! Too funny! The Harrisburg Airport was also mentioned and I have been there several times too! Love when I can read about places I am familiar with in real life!
The story was decent but at times I felt some of the details just weren't there - such as the skeleton of the young boy that was found and the whole situation with Zeke. In my mind, I personally feel Zeke was connected to his brother's death but the story never went there. I also really don't understand completely why Esther was shunned in the book. Also, what happened exactly with her relationship to Zeke. Just a lot of under-developed loose ends. What about Annie and Ben?
I may or may not read more by this author.
The story was decent but at times I felt some of the details just weren't there - such as the skeleton of the young boy that was found and the whole situation with Zeke. In my mind, I personally feel Zeke was connected to his brother's death but the story never went there. I also really don't understand completely why Esther was shunned in the book. Also, what happened exactly with her relationship to Zeke. Just a lot of under-developed loose ends. What about Annie and Ben?
I may or may not read more by this author.
May 28, 2017
A review from my old blog...
Even though I have read the last book in the series and know how everything ends, Mrs. Lewis' writing compels me to keep reading the other books in the series and find out even more about these characters.
Although a couple subplots are evident underneath the primary plot Mrs. Lewis weaves them together to create a story so whole that one plot/story cannot be told without the other. Perhaps that comes fromt the fact that the lives of those in an Amish community are already so closely intertwined.
As always, reading one of Lewis' books makes me think about the Amish lifestyle in relation to a relationship with God.
*Update*
This book did not survive a second read. I will add that this book was not as particularly egregious as a few of the other books of Mrs. Lewis' that I have reread recently. However, nothing particularly held my attention. Some of the things that I dislike about her books were present in this one as well. The thing that bothers me the most is her frequent shift in narrators. She shifts so often that readers have difficulty identifying with any of the characters. Also, everything seems to work out perfectly well in the end whether it's the end of the book or the end of the series.
Even though I have read the last book in the series and know how everything ends, Mrs. Lewis' writing compels me to keep reading the other books in the series and find out even more about these characters.
Although a couple subplots are evident underneath the primary plot Mrs. Lewis weaves them together to create a story so whole that one plot/story cannot be told without the other. Perhaps that comes fromt the fact that the lives of those in an Amish community are already so closely intertwined.
As always, reading one of Lewis' books makes me think about the Amish lifestyle in relation to a relationship with God.
*Update*
This book did not survive a second read. I will add that this book was not as particularly egregious as a few of the other books of Mrs. Lewis' that I have reread recently. However, nothing particularly held my attention. Some of the things that I dislike about her books were present in this one as well. The thing that bothers me the most is her frequent shift in narrators. She shifts so often that readers have difficulty identifying with any of the characters. Also, everything seems to work out perfectly well in the end whether it's the end of the book or the end of the series.
March 28, 2015
Another gem from the master story-teller of Amish life and romance. My only frustration is the author usually writes books in series (good grief, her Abram's Daughterw series has FIVE volumes) Normally, I do not like to read an entire series and prefer self-contained "stand-alones." However, Beverly Lewis gets a rare "pass" because her stories put a hook in my heart that I cannot release. On to the next one in the Annie's People trilogy. For me, flawless work by the author, as always. This is a narrowly defined genre and an acquired taste but once acquired - almost impossible to resist!
October 21, 2011
good book, new series about amish, about a preachers daughter who has a passion for drawing/painting which is a big nono in this particular amish order. towards the end i think it starts getting predictable, i have a feeling on how the ending will happen, even though two more books are in the series
January 12, 2013
This was my first Beverly Lewis book and I enjoyed it. At first I thought it was a little light but then things happened that I wanted to know the outcome. Interesting to read about the life of the Amish. I will try another one of her books.
December 30, 2017
I read this when I was like 11 because I grew up very conservative and my mom only wanted us to read good clean things. Amish fiction is the absolute worst. It made me think I hated reading until I was like 18 because reading Amish fiction is boring and makes me angry.
January 29, 2023
I didn’t like this book very much. I have read other books by this author and they were much more eventful. This book was better to read at the beginning when changes were happening but towards the end you could always guess what was coming next.
July 2, 2008
Amazing book. Takes you into another culture. It's the start of a three book series that you can't put down.
February 15, 2009
I liked this series slightly better than that of Abram's Daughters. It was fairly predictable and a fast read, but it was enjoyable all the same. Definitely good for a relaxing, quick read.
June 25, 2011
Excellent!
September 10, 2016
I really enjoyed this book..very good
November 2, 2024
October 11, 2024 - 1.5 stars, rounded down
I wanted to like this book, I really did, but I unfortunately had to DNF it about halfway through. I'm just plain (no pun intended) bored. What should have been a really interesting story—an Amish girl struggling to remain in her community due to her secret passion for art; a rich city girl abandoning the only life that she's ever known to stay with her Plain pen pal after breaking her engagement—somehow manages to be astoundingly boring.
Annie took me off-guard because of how upbeat and optimistic she was; I expected her to be sadder and more depressed by her circumstances. But never mind that; I suppose that the other reviews prepared me for a different kind of story. I started off liking Louisa, but that feeling nosedived once she arrived at the Zook household. Are you telling me that this young woman, who has conversed with Amish Annie for at least a decade and thus probably knows a lot more about Amish life than your average American, shows up to their house without even trying to dress modestly? She thinks that "English" dresses (you know what they look like) will suffice at an Amish church service? And how doesn't she know about the Saturday-night baths? You practically invited yourself over, Louisa. At least try to be appreciative of your host family's hospitality and don't complain about the conditions? She came off as extraordinarily tone-deaf, which I didn't like. (Side-note, this book was written before I was even born, so I had to look up what a "Palm" was. They look cool, not gonna lie, but that's because I'm a sucker for old technology. Other reviewers have said that nobody calls it a "Palm" anymore. Take that with a grain of salt.)
I don't understand why Jesse got to be a narrator. That felt pointless to me. I also don't understand why Annie allowed her mother into her room when she and Louisa were drawing. You have literally spent years and years cultivating a secret talent that you have kept from the community this entire time, yet you allow your mother to just walk in on you? Really? All that you had to do was just give Louisa the drawings and pretend that she was showing them to you! It was that simple!
I was actually interested in Esther/Essie's storyline—I wanted to see how an Amish woman deals with abuse from her husband—but there were such short blips dispersed throughout the boring story that I don't feel like continuing just for this minor (?) storyline's sake.
Final verdict: Interesting concept, poor execution.
Addition from November 1, 2024
Since I was bored, I DNF'ed this book... and since I was bored, I went right back to it yesterday and finished it today. I liked Louisa "Lou" a little better this time around, but I was still frustrated that pretty much nothing gets resolved in this book. I don't know why Annie didn't use an anonymous name when she submitted her artwork into the magazine contest. Annie's mother initially didn't like Louisa, but out of nowhere, Mamm tells Annie, "I've warmed up to her" (when we've been shown none of this). Annie's grandmother makes approximately two appearances in the book and never shows up again.
Something about this book that frustrated me was how the author would always skip over big conversations that I really want to hear. Preacher Jesse telling Zeke about the dead bones? Nothing. Michael's letters to Louisa? Nothing. Louisa's phone calls with Trey? Nothing. Preacher Jesse talking to the bishop? Nothing. Esther hearing the Good News from Julia and coming to accept Jesus as her Savior? Nothing. Esther being shunned in her own home because her husband is ABUSING HER?
NOTHING!!!
Annie's conversation with Esther when Esther was trying to tell Annie about Zeke frustrated me. Annie, when your lifelong friend is telling you that she and her children are being abused by her husband and she's asking, "Are you sayin' it's alright for a man to strike his wife if she doesn't [respect and obey him]?" you say: "NO!" Not: "Well, we both know there are plenty of men who demand submission, and they use the Ordnung to back that up... Usually, the men say it's the women's fault..."
HOW IS THAT HELPFUL TO ESTHER, ANNIE?
What Annie actually says:
Sorry that your husband is abusing you and your children, Esther, but at least I'M not getting married anytime soon.
I wanted to like this book, I really did, but I unfortunately had to DNF it about halfway through. I'm just plain (no pun intended) bored. What should have been a really interesting story—an Amish girl struggling to remain in her community due to her secret passion for art; a rich city girl abandoning the only life that she's ever known to stay with her Plain pen pal after breaking her engagement—somehow manages to be astoundingly boring.
Annie took me off-guard because of how upbeat and optimistic she was; I expected her to be sadder and more depressed by her circumstances. But never mind that; I suppose that the other reviews prepared me for a different kind of story. I started off liking Louisa, but that feeling nosedived once she arrived at the Zook household. Are you telling me that this young woman, who has conversed with Amish Annie for at least a decade and thus probably knows a lot more about Amish life than your average American, shows up to their house without even trying to dress modestly? She thinks that "English" dresses (you know what they look like) will suffice at an Amish church service? And how doesn't she know about the Saturday-night baths? You practically invited yourself over, Louisa. At least try to be appreciative of your host family's hospitality and don't complain about the conditions? She came off as extraordinarily tone-deaf, which I didn't like. (Side-note, this book was written before I was even born, so I had to look up what a "Palm" was. They look cool, not gonna lie, but that's because I'm a sucker for old technology. Other reviewers have said that nobody calls it a "Palm" anymore. Take that with a grain of salt.)
I don't understand why Jesse got to be a narrator. That felt pointless to me. I also don't understand why Annie allowed her mother into her room when she and Louisa were drawing. You have literally spent years and years cultivating a secret talent that you have kept from the community this entire time, yet you allow your mother to just walk in on you? Really? All that you had to do was just give Louisa the drawings and pretend that she was showing them to you! It was that simple!
I was actually interested in Esther/Essie's storyline—I wanted to see how an Amish woman deals with abuse from her husband—but there were such short blips dispersed throughout the boring story that I don't feel like continuing just for this minor (?) storyline's sake.
Final verdict: Interesting concept, poor execution.
Addition from November 1, 2024
Since I was bored, I DNF'ed this book... and since I was bored, I went right back to it yesterday and finished it today. I liked Louisa "Lou" a little better this time around, but I was still frustrated that pretty much nothing gets resolved in this book. I don't know why Annie didn't use an anonymous name when she submitted her artwork into the magazine contest. Annie's mother initially didn't like Louisa, but out of nowhere, Mamm tells Annie, "I've warmed up to her" (when we've been shown none of this). Annie's grandmother makes approximately two appearances in the book and never shows up again.
Something about this book that frustrated me was how the author would always skip over big conversations that I really want to hear. Preacher Jesse telling Zeke about the dead bones? Nothing. Michael's letters to Louisa? Nothing. Louisa's phone calls with Trey? Nothing. Preacher Jesse talking to the bishop? Nothing. Esther hearing the Good News from Julia and coming to accept Jesus as her Savior? Nothing. Esther being shunned in her own home because her husband is ABUSING HER?
NOTHING!!!
Annie's conversation with Esther when Esther was trying to tell Annie about Zeke frustrated me. Annie, when your lifelong friend is telling you that she and her children are being abused by her husband and she's asking, "Are you sayin' it's alright for a man to strike his wife if she doesn't [respect and obey him]?" you say: "NO!" Not: "Well, we both know there are plenty of men who demand submission, and they use the Ordnung to back that up... Usually, the men say it's the women's fault..."
HOW IS THAT HELPFUL TO ESTHER, ANNIE?
Esther blew her nose as they continued walking. "Don't you see? I feel I may be in danger... and the children, too." She put her hands on her protruding stomach. "With the next baby coming, well... I just don't think it's a good idea to stay put."What Annie should say: "Yes, Esther, your husband is abusing you and your children. It's absolutely not safe for you. Let's find you a place where you can stay until we sort everything out."
What Annie actually says:
"Are you afraid of Zeke?"Esther's response: "Yes, awful much." She then begins to cry and tells Annie that he's impossible to understand and that her husband is very moody. And then the conversation turns to Zeke's kidnapped younger brother for some reason, and the conversation ends with Esther saying, "I should have kept quiet," and Annie thinking, Well! Maybe it's good I'm not getting married anytime soon. Even if I ever meet a man who measures up to Rudy.
Sorry that your husband is abusing you and your children, Esther, but at least I'M not getting married anytime soon.
February 15, 2024
Problem #1. Old Order Amish don’t believe in the assurance of Salvation which is basically “faith” by works, which is un-Biblical according to both Romans and Ephesians. After having done slight research on the differences between New and Old Order Amish, I’ve come to the conclusion that Old Order missed the point of Christ’s death on the Cross and His Resurrection. Those acts of Love negated the need for strict rules regarding (in Old Order Amish case) Plain clothing, beards, etc, as was set down in the Old Testament. Judging creative expression (art, music, writing, dance, etc) goes against the creative Nature of our Creator God, who, by His Spirit, gives us His Gift of creative expression, meant to glorify Him.
Granted, this is the main source of conflict for the story. I would have liked more in-depth showcasing of Old Order Amish life and culture, that way Annie’s artistic ability is more dramatic.
Problem #2. For all of Louisa’s support of Annie’s artistic ability, I think she made the wrong decision to tell Annie to try expressing herself in acceptable Old Order ways. Annie never really had a running around time, and I think she needed a real one by the end of the book, instead of kowtowing to her Dad out of fear. I think she could have stayed at her Cousin Julia’s initially, then found a friend of her cousin’s to stay with who would still be Amish (just New Order) and approve of her artistic expression.
This is also the second time I’ve read this, and I waited too long between books to finish the series, but since I know how it ends, I still think Annie would have been better off having a time to fully express herself artistically.
Granted, this is the main source of conflict for the story. I would have liked more in-depth showcasing of Old Order Amish life and culture, that way Annie’s artistic ability is more dramatic.
Problem #2. For all of Louisa’s support of Annie’s artistic ability, I think she made the wrong decision to tell Annie to try expressing herself in acceptable Old Order ways. Annie never really had a running around time, and I think she needed a real one by the end of the book, instead of kowtowing to her Dad out of fear. I think she could have stayed at her Cousin Julia’s initially, then found a friend of her cousin’s to stay with who would still be Amish (just New Order) and approve of her artistic expression.
This is also the second time I’ve read this, and I waited too long between books to finish the series, but since I know how it ends, I still think Annie would have been better off having a time to fully express herself artistically.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2025
I wanted to like this, but I felt completely let down. For, this is a book that didn’t really know what direction it wanted to go in. Annie, an Amish girl, has been writing to a pen pal, Louisa (not Amish) for years. When Louisa decides to cancel her wedding and come to Pennsylvania to visit Annie, the girls meet for the first time.
We are told several times that the Amish community of Paradise is ‘peaceful’ and yet, the story begins with the abduction of a small boy, who Annie was close to. The ‘wisdom’ of her community was to cover it up and never do anything about it. When Annie’s father finds (what we assume to be) the boy’s bones buried in a field, they dig him up and bury him in the dark of the night without telling anyone. Sound peaceful yet?
Poor Annie has a love of drawing and painting and for that, she is unable to join the People and church. I’ve got to say, I understand there are different rules for different sects, but I once walked through an Amish farmhouse I was thinking of buying, and upstairs there was a room with a ton, and I do mean a ton, of paperback romance books that weren’t about the Amish. So, they all had cover art. I just don’t get it.
I also hated that the mystery went flat. Nothing solved. Why should it be? They didn’t care which is creepy to me. A peaceful community isn’t one where abuse and murder get pushed aside and ignored. I also hated that Louisa’s storyline never got resolved either. In fact, my ebook was missing some pages during the epilogue.
2 stars
We are told several times that the Amish community of Paradise is ‘peaceful’ and yet, the story begins with the abduction of a small boy, who Annie was close to. The ‘wisdom’ of her community was to cover it up and never do anything about it. When Annie’s father finds (what we assume to be) the boy’s bones buried in a field, they dig him up and bury him in the dark of the night without telling anyone. Sound peaceful yet?
Poor Annie has a love of drawing and painting and for that, she is unable to join the People and church. I’ve got to say, I understand there are different rules for different sects, but I once walked through an Amish farmhouse I was thinking of buying, and upstairs there was a room with a ton, and I do mean a ton, of paperback romance books that weren’t about the Amish. So, they all had cover art. I just don’t get it.
I also hated that the mystery went flat. Nothing solved. Why should it be? They didn’t care which is creepy to me. A peaceful community isn’t one where abuse and murder get pushed aside and ignored. I also hated that Louisa’s storyline never got resolved either. In fact, my ebook was missing some pages during the epilogue.
2 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2025
I really liked this book and almost gave it four stars. I didn't because she had some very interesting stories in the book that I felt deserved much more attention. I would've loved to have known more about Louisa's parents and Michael and how they responded to her "change of mind". Character development here could've resulted in a deeper, more interesting story.
And then there were Esther and Zeke. SUCH an important and volatile topic that was hardly addressed, and even more so, how the Amish community actually deals with such matters.
There's so much here that could've gone deeper and it just didn't. Too much "cutesy, quippy" anticdotes that just took up valuable space.
Also, there is a huge amount of Amish fiction passing itself off as Christian, but if you look at the history and religious beliefs and practices of the Amish community, that seems to be the exception as oppsed to the rule and this is very misleading, which gives believers a false interpretation of the Amish beliefs and practices of faith.
Beverly Lewis is more honest than most Amish Christian fiction writers, but there's so much that can really be dug into at a realistic and honest level and it just seems to fall a little short for me.
I am, however, going to continue with the next two books in the series, though I had already figured out one of the big "mysteries" before I finished this book but is really addressed in the second book.
And then there were Esther and Zeke. SUCH an important and volatile topic that was hardly addressed, and even more so, how the Amish community actually deals with such matters.
There's so much here that could've gone deeper and it just didn't. Too much "cutesy, quippy" anticdotes that just took up valuable space.
Also, there is a huge amount of Amish fiction passing itself off as Christian, but if you look at the history and religious beliefs and practices of the Amish community, that seems to be the exception as oppsed to the rule and this is very misleading, which gives believers a false interpretation of the Amish beliefs and practices of faith.
Beverly Lewis is more honest than most Amish Christian fiction writers, but there's so much that can really be dug into at a realistic and honest level and it just seems to fall a little short for me.
I am, however, going to continue with the next two books in the series, though I had already figured out one of the big "mysteries" before I finished this book but is really addressed in the second book.
August 4, 2023
Complexity
Everyone think s that living the Amish life is hard work and no choices. This is pretty much true! It must be so difficult to be Amish and be a gifted artist, or want to write stories, or have a talent for singing, because in most Amish communities these things are forbidden. This is the story of Annie Zook, who is talented in drawing,painting,,and other artistic ways. Her parents disapprove, and want her to give it all up and join the church. Throughout the book, Annie struggle s with her decision. It does not help that her English friend, Louisa, comes to visit, who is also a very talented artist. The story also includes Annie's former best friend Esther, know the mother of three under the age of 6 with another on the way. Esther is married to Zeke, who is abusive to her and the children. At the end of this story, Ben Martin comes to Paradise. He finds himself attracted to Annie even though she is Amish and he is English. Disappointed that the end of the book did not resolve Annie's dilemma, Louisa's problems, Esther and Z eke is marital problems, or solve the mystery of the peach pits, that came out in the very last chapter. I'm sure their is a sequel to this book where the problems are resolved, but I would have liked at least one of the problems not left dangling.
Everyone think s that living the Amish life is hard work and no choices. This is pretty much true! It must be so difficult to be Amish and be a gifted artist, or want to write stories, or have a talent for singing, because in most Amish communities these things are forbidden. This is the story of Annie Zook, who is talented in drawing,painting,,and other artistic ways. Her parents disapprove, and want her to give it all up and join the church. Throughout the book, Annie struggle s with her decision. It does not help that her English friend, Louisa, comes to visit, who is also a very talented artist. The story also includes Annie's former best friend Esther, know the mother of three under the age of 6 with another on the way. Esther is married to Zeke, who is abusive to her and the children. At the end of this story, Ben Martin comes to Paradise. He finds himself attracted to Annie even though she is Amish and he is English. Disappointed that the end of the book did not resolve Annie's dilemma, Louisa's problems, Esther and Z eke is marital problems, or solve the mystery of the peach pits, that came out in the very last chapter. I'm sure their is a sequel to this book where the problems are resolved, but I would have liked at least one of the problems not left dangling.
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