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Susanna's Christmas Wish
From the pen of bestselling Amish fiction author Jerry Eicher, (more than 350,000 books sold), comes a truly delightful and inspiring Christmas novella. Fans will be delighted by this peek at an Amish Christmas, complete with the romantic wish of Susanna Byler to spend the holidays with the man of her dreams. But who is the man of her dreams? Is it the competent but plain Amishman she married for convenience....or is it her first love--an Englisha man with whom she has recently had an unexpected encounter--and who wants her back in his life? A perfect holiday delight for lovers of Amish fiction...and those who love a heartwarming and tender Christmas tale.
144 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2012
12 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
About the author
Jerry S. Eicher
70 books201 followersJerry Eicher’s bestselling Amish fiction (more than 210,000 in combined sales) includes The Adams County Trilogy, the Hannah’s Heart books, and the Little Valley Series. After a traditional Amish childhood, Jerry taught for two terms in Amish and Mennonite schools in Ohio and Illinois. Since then he’s been involved in church renewal, preaching, and teaching Bible studies. Jerry lives with his wife, Tina Eicher, and their four children in Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 12, 2022
4,5 stars - English Ebook
A truly delightful and inspiring Christmas novella.
Fans will be delighted by this peek at an Amish Christmas, complete with the romantic wish of Susanna Byler to spend the holidays with the man of her dreams.
But who is the man of her dreams?
Is it the competent but plain Amishman she married for convenience….or is it her first love, an Englisha man with whom she has recently had an unexpected encounter, and who wants her back in his life?
A perfect holiday delight for lovers of Amish fiction…and those who love a heartwarming and tender Christmas tale.
Being newly married and learning to adjust living with a spouse and different ways of doing things is sometimes hard enough; but throw in an old flame who shows up and causes problems, a bossy mother in law and big differences in how the two families celebrate Christmas and its a wonder this couple survives.
The young wife relies on the Lord to set things right and tries to please her husband and His mother.
This is a short but good story. I'd love to see a second story about this couple as their life continues with children.
A truly delightful and inspiring Christmas novella.
Fans will be delighted by this peek at an Amish Christmas, complete with the romantic wish of Susanna Byler to spend the holidays with the man of her dreams.
But who is the man of her dreams?
Is it the competent but plain Amishman she married for convenience….or is it her first love, an Englisha man with whom she has recently had an unexpected encounter, and who wants her back in his life?
A perfect holiday delight for lovers of Amish fiction…and those who love a heartwarming and tender Christmas tale.
Being newly married and learning to adjust living with a spouse and different ways of doing things is sometimes hard enough; but throw in an old flame who shows up and causes problems, a bossy mother in law and big differences in how the two families celebrate Christmas and its a wonder this couple survives.
The young wife relies on the Lord to set things right and tries to please her husband and His mother.
This is a short but good story. I'd love to see a second story about this couple as their life continues with children.
December 23, 2012
*I want to apologize in advance for my mistakes if there are, I am not a native English speaker. Thank you!*
I always believed in the magic of the holidays, and of Christmas in particular because it brings people together, makes them better and more gentle, helps them feel in their souls the happy and dreamy children that they were once. No matter how far you are, when Christmas is coming is inevitable not to think about your family, the loved ones, and want to return as soon as possible at home and spend some of those great moments with them. And this is my favorite holiday, it's inevitable for me feeling excited when I look for the perfect gifts that will bring smiles on the faces of those I love, feeling happy like a child when the first snow settles, and not become melancholic because of the cute decorations.
So when Byler Susanna feels very sad and disappointed when her husband, whom she married recently, explained her very clear that they will never celebrate Christmas, because that is how things were always in his Amish family, rather strict when it comes to their beliefs, I perfectly understand her suffering. Both she and Herman are part of the Amish community are followers of the same religion, one in which modesty, simplicity and the traditional life is all.
It is inevitable that Susanna is upset with her husband, since Christmas was a very dear celebration of her, and her family always celebrated it in a simple way.
She wonders if she made the right decision marring him, and her thoughts go to Matthew, her first fiance, whom she loved with all my heart but now is a Englisha because chose to leave the community and live together with other people who do not share the same beliefs, and she did not want to accompany him at that moment.
When her ex comes back in the community, regretting his choices from the past and wanting to return here, especially for Susanna, who he still loves, things become complicated. His appearance could threaten her marriage.
Herman even begins to feel small in the eyes of his wife, being a simple and modest man, a worker, but not nearly as beautiful and charismatic as her ex.
Love and kindness will be the solution this time, but it remains to find out who will get it between the two .. Herman, her husband strict in terms of winter holidays, or Matthew, who is not seen well in the eyes of the community The magic of Christmas will help Susanna take the best decision ..
When I asked to review this book I wanted to read something specific for Christmas, and I think you already understand why..because I love it. I haven’t read carefully the description, I liked the cover, and since the action took place during the holidays, other details did not matter to me. Well, here comes the surprise I had when I started reading it. Christmas is more the décor, and things about Amish community and issues that Susanna is facing are the important ones.
I had no idea what Amish is when I started reading the novella. Many times I looked at the description on the cover to see if last period when the action happens. In my mind, I thought it was somewhere in the past, because of the behaving, thoughts and beliefs of the characters.
Obviously I could not feel the beauty of the book as a reader belonging to this religion will do. But the story is pretty inspiring, it shows that goodness and kindness help you get over any obstacle. Susanna is a young woman with a big and beautiful heart. Eventually, Christmas magic has a contribution, you'll see how, overall resulting a pleasant winter read, and as any book we learn something from is good from my point of view, so it is this one.
I always believed in the magic of the holidays, and of Christmas in particular because it brings people together, makes them better and more gentle, helps them feel in their souls the happy and dreamy children that they were once. No matter how far you are, when Christmas is coming is inevitable not to think about your family, the loved ones, and want to return as soon as possible at home and spend some of those great moments with them. And this is my favorite holiday, it's inevitable for me feeling excited when I look for the perfect gifts that will bring smiles on the faces of those I love, feeling happy like a child when the first snow settles, and not become melancholic because of the cute decorations.
So when Byler Susanna feels very sad and disappointed when her husband, whom she married recently, explained her very clear that they will never celebrate Christmas, because that is how things were always in his Amish family, rather strict when it comes to their beliefs, I perfectly understand her suffering. Both she and Herman are part of the Amish community are followers of the same religion, one in which modesty, simplicity and the traditional life is all.
It is inevitable that Susanna is upset with her husband, since Christmas was a very dear celebration of her, and her family always celebrated it in a simple way.
She wonders if she made the right decision marring him, and her thoughts go to Matthew, her first fiance, whom she loved with all my heart but now is a Englisha because chose to leave the community and live together with other people who do not share the same beliefs, and she did not want to accompany him at that moment.
When her ex comes back in the community, regretting his choices from the past and wanting to return here, especially for Susanna, who he still loves, things become complicated. His appearance could threaten her marriage.
Herman even begins to feel small in the eyes of his wife, being a simple and modest man, a worker, but not nearly as beautiful and charismatic as her ex.
Love and kindness will be the solution this time, but it remains to find out who will get it between the two .. Herman, her husband strict in terms of winter holidays, or Matthew, who is not seen well in the eyes of the community The magic of Christmas will help Susanna take the best decision ..
When I asked to review this book I wanted to read something specific for Christmas, and I think you already understand why..because I love it. I haven’t read carefully the description, I liked the cover, and since the action took place during the holidays, other details did not matter to me. Well, here comes the surprise I had when I started reading it. Christmas is more the décor, and things about Amish community and issues that Susanna is facing are the important ones.
I had no idea what Amish is when I started reading the novella. Many times I looked at the description on the cover to see if last period when the action happens. In my mind, I thought it was somewhere in the past, because of the behaving, thoughts and beliefs of the characters.
Obviously I could not feel the beauty of the book as a reader belonging to this religion will do. But the story is pretty inspiring, it shows that goodness and kindness help you get over any obstacle. Susanna is a young woman with a big and beautiful heart. Eventually, Christmas magic has a contribution, you'll see how, overall resulting a pleasant winter read, and as any book we learn something from is good from my point of view, so it is this one.
September 28, 2012
Susanna Wagler is trying hard to move forward and hoping to leave her past behind. But when your heart has been badly broken, it's hard to find ways to mend it again. She gave her heart many years ago to Matthew Yoder, who loved her and brought out all the goodness and love she had to offer. She believed after so many years of getting to really know him, that they would be married. In fact, when he asked, she was more than willing and ready to say yes. But little did she know that that simple answer would cause Matthew to realize he didn't really love her as much as she loved him. He left Susanna behind and went to live among the English. Now Matthew's been banned and Susanna has wondered if she could ever learn to love again.
Herman Wagler had waited most of his life for opportunity to present itself with Susanna. However, this was not the opportunity he had in mind, when he would spend months trying to find ways to heal her broken heart and restore the love she had inside. She did agree to marry him, but her heart just wasn't there. He hoped in time, she could come to love her as much as she loved him. But they were both raised to accept certain family traditions. For Susanna, her family celebrated Christmas as the English did on December 25th, while his family held on to the beliefs that it should be celebrated on January 6th. When Susanna asked him about spending time with her family on Christmas, Herman reminded Susanna that now that they were married, they would be establishing their own traditions and he would follow in the way he was raised and forbid Susanna to spend time with her family.
In the novel by Jerry Eicher, Susanna's Christmas Wish, invites the reader into a difficult time for newlyweds, Herman and Susanna Wagler. While this is just one of the many situations causing them conflict, Susanna is trying to fight her feelings of love and realizes, she loves Herman differently than she did Matthew. She knows she has to push back her past and try to find ways to really love Herman like she should and life suddenly becomes more complicated when Matthew comes to visit his family and is hoping Susanna's feelings for him, haven't changed.
I received Susanna's Christmas Wish compliments of Harvest House Publishers and Net Galley for my honest review. I am a huge fan of Christmas books and especially Amish romance novels, so when the opportunity presented itself to review this one, I knew I would enjoy it. I was not disappointed and truly admire Susanna's character. The choices she makes are admirable even despite not getting her way with trying to please her new husband, Herman. It shows that not all of our life choices are easy, but with grace and doing the right thing, great blessings can come from them. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Herman Wagler had waited most of his life for opportunity to present itself with Susanna. However, this was not the opportunity he had in mind, when he would spend months trying to find ways to heal her broken heart and restore the love she had inside. She did agree to marry him, but her heart just wasn't there. He hoped in time, she could come to love her as much as she loved him. But they were both raised to accept certain family traditions. For Susanna, her family celebrated Christmas as the English did on December 25th, while his family held on to the beliefs that it should be celebrated on January 6th. When Susanna asked him about spending time with her family on Christmas, Herman reminded Susanna that now that they were married, they would be establishing their own traditions and he would follow in the way he was raised and forbid Susanna to spend time with her family.
In the novel by Jerry Eicher, Susanna's Christmas Wish, invites the reader into a difficult time for newlyweds, Herman and Susanna Wagler. While this is just one of the many situations causing them conflict, Susanna is trying to fight her feelings of love and realizes, she loves Herman differently than she did Matthew. She knows she has to push back her past and try to find ways to really love Herman like she should and life suddenly becomes more complicated when Matthew comes to visit his family and is hoping Susanna's feelings for him, haven't changed.
I received Susanna's Christmas Wish compliments of Harvest House Publishers and Net Galley for my honest review. I am a huge fan of Christmas books and especially Amish romance novels, so when the opportunity presented itself to review this one, I knew I would enjoy it. I was not disappointed and truly admire Susanna's character. The choices she makes are admirable even despite not getting her way with trying to please her new husband, Herman. It shows that not all of our life choices are easy, but with grace and doing the right thing, great blessings can come from them. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
December 11, 2017
This book put me into the Christmas spirit. You can feel the love between the main characters. A newlywed Amish couple struggle about how to celebrate Christmas as their families are different in their Amish beliefs.
December 2, 2012
Title: SUSANNA’S CHRISTMAS WISH
Author: Jerry S. Eicher
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
September 2012
ISBN: 978-0736951517
Genre: Amish / Christmas novella
Susanna married Herman Wagler, on the rebound. She loved Matthew Yoder with all her heart, but when Matthew left the community, Susanna agreed to let Herman take her home from singings, and then agreed to marry him. But even after marrying Herman, she isn’t madly in love. She tries to be, she pretends to be, but it just isn’t there. It is worse when she learns that Herman doesn’t believe in celebrating Christmas and he won’t let her celebrate with her family.
Herman does believe in Thanksgiving, so he allows Susanna to go to her sister’s house to set up for the festivities. But when Matthew is there also, things in Herman’s and Susanna’s marriage go from bad to worse. Tongues wag, questioning Susanna’s ethics. Herman is jealous, and Susanna’s heart is torn asunder. Will she remain true to her vows and find a lasting love with Herman?
SUSANNA’S CHRISTMAS WISH is a sweet little Christmas novella by acclaimed Amish author, Jerry Eicher. Being formerly Amish, I put a lot of faith in Mr. Eicher’s fiction about the people and their faith.
Susanna is a bit dramatic. She is determined to be the perfect frau and so she is constantly telling herself and Herman how much they love each other, they do, and rushing to make things absolutely perfect for him. I think she overdoes it, and her actions are transparent, making Herman struggle a bit more in his faith of Susanna. The characters could be fleshed out a bit more, making them more likeable, but this is a novella and there isn’t a lot of room for in depth point of view.
If you are looking for a cute, quick, Amish Christmas themed book, then SUSANNA’S CHRISTMAS WISH is a sweet little novella that you might love. I read it through in a day, and would have loved it to have been a longer, full length book. But it is perfect for a quick read. 4.5 stars $10.99. 144 pages.
Author: Jerry S. Eicher
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
September 2012
ISBN: 978-0736951517
Genre: Amish / Christmas novella
Susanna married Herman Wagler, on the rebound. She loved Matthew Yoder with all her heart, but when Matthew left the community, Susanna agreed to let Herman take her home from singings, and then agreed to marry him. But even after marrying Herman, she isn’t madly in love. She tries to be, she pretends to be, but it just isn’t there. It is worse when she learns that Herman doesn’t believe in celebrating Christmas and he won’t let her celebrate with her family.
Herman does believe in Thanksgiving, so he allows Susanna to go to her sister’s house to set up for the festivities. But when Matthew is there also, things in Herman’s and Susanna’s marriage go from bad to worse. Tongues wag, questioning Susanna’s ethics. Herman is jealous, and Susanna’s heart is torn asunder. Will she remain true to her vows and find a lasting love with Herman?
SUSANNA’S CHRISTMAS WISH is a sweet little Christmas novella by acclaimed Amish author, Jerry Eicher. Being formerly Amish, I put a lot of faith in Mr. Eicher’s fiction about the people and their faith.
Susanna is a bit dramatic. She is determined to be the perfect frau and so she is constantly telling herself and Herman how much they love each other, they do, and rushing to make things absolutely perfect for him. I think she overdoes it, and her actions are transparent, making Herman struggle a bit more in his faith of Susanna. The characters could be fleshed out a bit more, making them more likeable, but this is a novella and there isn’t a lot of room for in depth point of view.
If you are looking for a cute, quick, Amish Christmas themed book, then SUSANNA’S CHRISTMAS WISH is a sweet little novella that you might love. I read it through in a day, and would have loved it to have been a longer, full length book. But it is perfect for a quick read. 4.5 stars $10.99. 144 pages.
June 6, 2013
Young newlyweds, Susanna and Herman Wagler are adjusting to their new life together. Susanna still holds onto memories of her past love, Matthew Yoder, who left the Amish community during his rumspringa. As preparations for Thanksgiving Day were being made at Susanna’s sister's home Matthew suddenly shows up. Matthew’s presence threatens Susanna’s relationship with Herman, and places Herman in a depressed state, worried that his wife doesn’t truly love him. To complicate matters Susanna is heartbroken that Herman refuses to celebrate Christmas with her family. Is Susanna strong enough to conquer the obstacles set before her by her old boyfriend, and the strict beliefs of her husband?
This story of young Amish love is poignant and emotional. Formerly Amish, Jerry Eicher is very familiar with the Amish culture and their practices. He pens a well defined portrayal of the community and activities common to the Amish. His characters are realistic and true to their identities. The locale is well described with accuracy and familiarity. His personal insights into Amish tradition enhance this story of struggle in the young lives of Herman and Susanna. Although a novella, much transpires throughout this story of past love, new commitments and adjustment.
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received as a result of this review.
This story of young Amish love is poignant and emotional. Formerly Amish, Jerry Eicher is very familiar with the Amish culture and their practices. He pens a well defined portrayal of the community and activities common to the Amish. His characters are realistic and true to their identities. The locale is well described with accuracy and familiarity. His personal insights into Amish tradition enhance this story of struggle in the young lives of Herman and Susanna. Although a novella, much transpires throughout this story of past love, new commitments and adjustment.
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received as a result of this review.
September 16, 2012
A wunderbar book !!! Jerry Eicher has once again stolen my sleep as I have not been able to put Susanna's Christmas Wish down to close my eyes to get some sleep! I am a big Jerry Eicher fan, to begin with, and I love love love Christmas books. Poor Susanna is faced with a dilemma though: her new husband, Herman, does not celebrate Christmas as his family of origin felt it was an English custom and should only be celebrated in January on Old Christmas and in a VERY simple manner. Then her old boyfriend, Matthew, who left the Amish and is under the bann, returns and starts talking and causing trouble. Susanna is trying so hard to be a good frau to Herman. I will not disclose more as I do not wish to spoil the book for other readers, but it is wunderbar! It is worth the time to indulge in reading. You will not be disappointed. This is a sweet, sweet book!!
September 18, 2012
I just finished reading "Susanna's Christmas Wish" by Jerry Eicher. I give it 5 stars. Susanna is in love with Matthew and they are going to get married but then he wants to go to the English world and leaves her behind. She gets married To Herman and then Matthew returns. Susanna's Christmas wish is to make her marriage a good one. Does she get what she wants? I'll leave that for you to found out for yourself! But I think you will be surprised.
December 9, 2020
Susanna's Christmas Wish is a very heartwarming story written by Jerry Eicher. This is a quick read but we'll worth it especially at Christmas. This story is filled with love, regrets, misunderstandings, and being try to one's self.
Sudanna Jeim has recently married Herman Eaglet and things are not as they should be. Herman along with his family do not believe in celebrating Christmas but Sudanna does. Along with the stress she already feels she must decide whether to follow her husband on this stance.
When Susanna's former beau returns home she is torn how she really feels towards him. When Mathew spills things between him and Susanna before she married Herman things start to unravel. Susanna struggles with where her true love resides. Susanna is seeking God's will and peace before Christmas but what does Herman wish for?
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with four stars for the emotional packed story that it is.
Sudanna Jeim has recently married Herman Eaglet and things are not as they should be. Herman along with his family do not believe in celebrating Christmas but Sudanna does. Along with the stress she already feels she must decide whether to follow her husband on this stance.
When Susanna's former beau returns home she is torn how she really feels towards him. When Mathew spills things between him and Susanna before she married Herman things start to unravel. Susanna struggles with where her true love resides. Susanna is seeking God's will and peace before Christmas but what does Herman wish for?
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with four stars for the emotional packed story that it is.
October 29, 2019
Susanna’s Christmas Wish is an enjoyable novella by Jerry S. Eicher. This short tale brought Susanna’s and Herman’s early marriage to life with their struggles. Herman came from a strict Amish family that didn’t celebrate Christmas on Christmas Day. Susanna was determined to love Herman, despite her heartbreak of not being with her family on Christmas. The love and pampering Susanna had for Herman during his illness after wondering around in frustration from words Matthew, Susanna’s old fiancé had told him, may bring a new perspective of Christmas to this young couple.
October 15, 2012
Susanna Keim married Herman Wagler after being jilted by Matthew Yoder who happened to be her sisters brother-in-law. Matthew and Susanna had been going out for two years and were engaged when he decieded to leave the Amish. He wanted Susanna to go with him but she refused so the engagement was broken since he is under the bann.
After a few months she finally agreed to let Herman take her home and since his Mamm agreed, he asked Susanna to marry him. She agreed even though she wasn't as in love with him as she'd been with Matthew, she thought she could grow to love him just as deeply.
Thanksgiving is around the corner and then there will be Christmas, she could hardly wait until Christmas day to spend with her family at her Mamm and Daedt's house. They always had a large family breakfast with everyone then spent the day enjoying the visiting and snacking before everyone would leave to go home. She knew that the Wagler's didn't celebrate new Christmas, they kept with the old Christmas, but she didn't think it would be a problem. Herman finally told her that they would not be going to her parents home because their family tradition would be as the Wagler tradition was always celebrated, the old Christmas. Susanna just didn't know how she would tell her family this and how she was going to get through this holiday season.
To make things worse, when she goes to her sister Mary's house to help prepare for Thanksgiving dinner she sees an Englisch car parked by the barn, she doesn't think too much about it until Mary meets her at the door and tells her that Matthew showed up the night before. Now she has to tell Herman that Matthew is back just after they'd had their first argument. When they return to Mary's for Thanksgiving dinner, Matthew still hasn't left like he said that he would, making the day very stressful for them. Not only is he there, he wants to talk privately to Susanna, she refuses, but he does catch Herman as he's getting the buggy ready to leave.
On the way home Susanna and Herman have quite the conversation and all does not go well. Herman stays out in the snowstorm until early morning making himself sick. Matthew has talked to the preacher stirring up trouble, and meddling Ivy, Herman's mother, comes over and stirs up more problems. This marriage doesn't seem to be going too well at this point.
I really did enjoy this short story! It gives you a glimpse into how, what I get the impression of anyway, a lot of Amish marriages start out. The bride and groom are just friends, marry for convenience (marrying a widow or widower to help with children for example), or because they are getting past the 'marrying age' and want to hurry and do so. Some couples grow to love one another and some don't, but they stay married regardless. Herman and Susanna have a lot of things working against them at a time that is supposed to be happy, being newlyweds and the holiday season. You'll have to read to find out what happens.
I would recommend that you get this book to read this holiday season, you won't be sorry.
I received this book from Harvest House Publishers for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
After a few months she finally agreed to let Herman take her home and since his Mamm agreed, he asked Susanna to marry him. She agreed even though she wasn't as in love with him as she'd been with Matthew, she thought she could grow to love him just as deeply.
Thanksgiving is around the corner and then there will be Christmas, she could hardly wait until Christmas day to spend with her family at her Mamm and Daedt's house. They always had a large family breakfast with everyone then spent the day enjoying the visiting and snacking before everyone would leave to go home. She knew that the Wagler's didn't celebrate new Christmas, they kept with the old Christmas, but she didn't think it would be a problem. Herman finally told her that they would not be going to her parents home because their family tradition would be as the Wagler tradition was always celebrated, the old Christmas. Susanna just didn't know how she would tell her family this and how she was going to get through this holiday season.
To make things worse, when she goes to her sister Mary's house to help prepare for Thanksgiving dinner she sees an Englisch car parked by the barn, she doesn't think too much about it until Mary meets her at the door and tells her that Matthew showed up the night before. Now she has to tell Herman that Matthew is back just after they'd had their first argument. When they return to Mary's for Thanksgiving dinner, Matthew still hasn't left like he said that he would, making the day very stressful for them. Not only is he there, he wants to talk privately to Susanna, she refuses, but he does catch Herman as he's getting the buggy ready to leave.
On the way home Susanna and Herman have quite the conversation and all does not go well. Herman stays out in the snowstorm until early morning making himself sick. Matthew has talked to the preacher stirring up trouble, and meddling Ivy, Herman's mother, comes over and stirs up more problems. This marriage doesn't seem to be going too well at this point.
I really did enjoy this short story! It gives you a glimpse into how, what I get the impression of anyway, a lot of Amish marriages start out. The bride and groom are just friends, marry for convenience (marrying a widow or widower to help with children for example), or because they are getting past the 'marrying age' and want to hurry and do so. Some couples grow to love one another and some don't, but they stay married regardless. Herman and Susanna have a lot of things working against them at a time that is supposed to be happy, being newlyweds and the holiday season. You'll have to read to find out what happens.
I would recommend that you get this book to read this holiday season, you won't be sorry.
I received this book from Harvest House Publishers for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 8, 2017
Pleasantly surprised with this one, since I had an idea about what the ending might be, and it was different from what I expected.
I read a lot of Amish fiction, and while I am no expert, I am at least familiar with the Amish culture. It was a little off to read the Pennsylvania Dutch words in a slightly different form than I am used to, but they were easy enough to understand. I wish there was a mini-dictionary at the back of the book for reference though.
But I still enjoyed this author and may read more of his books.
I read a lot of Amish fiction, and while I am no expert, I am at least familiar with the Amish culture. It was a little off to read the Pennsylvania Dutch words in a slightly different form than I am used to, but they were easy enough to understand. I wish there was a mini-dictionary at the back of the book for reference though.
But I still enjoyed this author and may read more of his books.
September 13, 2012
Title: Susanna's Christmas Wish
Author: Jerry S. Eicher
Post Date: September 12, 2012
Blog URL: http://sweetpea0944.wordpress.com
Review Link: http://sweetpea0944.wordpress.com/201...
Susanna's Christmas Wish was the first novel I have read by Mr. Eicher. I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down to write this review and found that Jerry Eicher is a man and not a woman as I had assumed. His writing is wonderful and he beautifully expresses the heart of the female character in this book. I found the book to be very enjoyable and finished reading it in one day.
Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and this book addressed issues that I have never encountered in any other Amish literature. Susanna and Hermann are newlyweds and face the issues that come along with the joining of a couple and the traditions and ways that each bring from their individual families. The couple face some difficult situations as they begin their new life together but handle them with dignity and grace. I could relate to the problems the young couple encountered in blending their lives. Mr. Eicher gave me a new dimension of the Amish that I have never thought about before. I'm sure that there is some resistance in an Amish marriage just as in the English world. Individual families have their unique ways of interacting and have small differences even though they come from very similar backgrounds.
I give Susanna's Christmas Wish 4 out of 5 stars and look forward to reading more books by this wonderful author.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Susanna's Christmas Wish through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are solely my own and are unbiased.
Author: Jerry S. Eicher
Post Date: September 12, 2012
Blog URL: http://sweetpea0944.wordpress.com
Review Link: http://sweetpea0944.wordpress.com/201...
Susanna's Christmas Wish was the first novel I have read by Mr. Eicher. I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down to write this review and found that Jerry Eicher is a man and not a woman as I had assumed. His writing is wonderful and he beautifully expresses the heart of the female character in this book. I found the book to be very enjoyable and finished reading it in one day.
Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and this book addressed issues that I have never encountered in any other Amish literature. Susanna and Hermann are newlyweds and face the issues that come along with the joining of a couple and the traditions and ways that each bring from their individual families. The couple face some difficult situations as they begin their new life together but handle them with dignity and grace. I could relate to the problems the young couple encountered in blending their lives. Mr. Eicher gave me a new dimension of the Amish that I have never thought about before. I'm sure that there is some resistance in an Amish marriage just as in the English world. Individual families have their unique ways of interacting and have small differences even though they come from very similar backgrounds.
I give Susanna's Christmas Wish 4 out of 5 stars and look forward to reading more books by this wonderful author.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Susanna's Christmas Wish through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are solely my own and are unbiased.
January 16, 2016
REVIEW
Jerry S. Eicher wrote a heart warming Amish holiday read. Susanna and Matthew were going to be together forever, or so she thought. Matthew "jumped the fence" and entered into the Englisch world. Susanna decides to go on with her life. She begins to see Herman Wagler. They decide to marry and things are going good. Herman 's family doesn't celebrate Christmas. Herman doesn't want Christmas in his house either. On top of that, Susanna finds out that Matthew has returned. Will Susanna stay with Herman, the one she married out of convenience or will it be the man she truly loves, Matthew.? Will Susanna get her wish? What will happen when Christmas comes? Will they celebrate or not? The author, Mr. Eicher, as usual wrote a lovely Christmas book. The book holds a little suspense and a little sadness. Susanna married for convenience and that is sad. She is not with the one she loves. Mr. Eicher always leaves you with your heart feeling warm. The book shows a lot of love and the ability to admit you are wrong. I would recommend this book to anyone. It is a short read and it would be a good one to read with Christmas not too far down the road. The author has penned a beautiful, warm and loving Christmas read. Why not pick up a copy and find out if the Christmas wish comes true.
I would give this novella 4 STARS.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, SUSANNA'S CHRISTMAS WISH by the author, Jerry S. Eicher for my unbiased review.
Jerry S. Eicher wrote a heart warming Amish holiday read. Susanna and Matthew were going to be together forever, or so she thought. Matthew "jumped the fence" and entered into the Englisch world. Susanna decides to go on with her life. She begins to see Herman Wagler. They decide to marry and things are going good. Herman 's family doesn't celebrate Christmas. Herman doesn't want Christmas in his house either. On top of that, Susanna finds out that Matthew has returned. Will Susanna stay with Herman, the one she married out of convenience or will it be the man she truly loves, Matthew.? Will Susanna get her wish? What will happen when Christmas comes? Will they celebrate or not? The author, Mr. Eicher, as usual wrote a lovely Christmas book. The book holds a little suspense and a little sadness. Susanna married for convenience and that is sad. She is not with the one she loves. Mr. Eicher always leaves you with your heart feeling warm. The book shows a lot of love and the ability to admit you are wrong. I would recommend this book to anyone. It is a short read and it would be a good one to read with Christmas not too far down the road. The author has penned a beautiful, warm and loving Christmas read. Why not pick up a copy and find out if the Christmas wish comes true.
I would give this novella 4 STARS.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, SUSANNA'S CHRISTMAS WISH by the author, Jerry S. Eicher for my unbiased review.
August 28, 2012
Susanna’s Christmas Wish - A Delightful Holiday Read!
This was a quick enjoyable read. I picked it up as often as I could. I just had to find out what was happening with Susanna and Herman.
Susanna and Herman had not been married long when they had their first disagreement. Herman was adamant about keeping his family’s tradition when it came to Christmas. Susanna was upset that she wouldn’t be able to spend Christmas at her Mom and Dad’s this year. She was determined to be a good wife to Herman and go along with his family’s tradition.
Matthew turns up at Susanna’s sister’s house a week before Thanksgiving. Matthew was engaged to be married to Susanna at one time but left her for the Englisha world leaving Susanna heart broken. What was Matthew doing back in the community? Did he hope to get back with Susanna? Was he here to stay? Susanna was a married woman now. What was she to do?
This story shows how insecure two people can be when a marriage is threatened by outside forces.
I really loved this emotional read. Well, my emotions took over anyway. I will admit that I did shed some tears while reading this story. I found it to be a touching one.
I am looking forward to more great reads by this author!
I wish to thank Harvest House Publishers and Jerry Eicher for sending me this book to read and review. The opinions are mine alone.
This was a quick enjoyable read. I picked it up as often as I could. I just had to find out what was happening with Susanna and Herman.
Susanna and Herman had not been married long when they had their first disagreement. Herman was adamant about keeping his family’s tradition when it came to Christmas. Susanna was upset that she wouldn’t be able to spend Christmas at her Mom and Dad’s this year. She was determined to be a good wife to Herman and go along with his family’s tradition.
Matthew turns up at Susanna’s sister’s house a week before Thanksgiving. Matthew was engaged to be married to Susanna at one time but left her for the Englisha world leaving Susanna heart broken. What was Matthew doing back in the community? Did he hope to get back with Susanna? Was he here to stay? Susanna was a married woman now. What was she to do?
This story shows how insecure two people can be when a marriage is threatened by outside forces.
I really loved this emotional read. Well, my emotions took over anyway. I will admit that I did shed some tears while reading this story. I found it to be a touching one.
I am looking forward to more great reads by this author!
I wish to thank Harvest House Publishers and Jerry Eicher for sending me this book to read and review. The opinions are mine alone.
October 24, 2012
I only had one bad thing to say about this book of Jerry Eicher,
It is not long enough.....
"Susanna's Christmas Wish" by Jerry Eicher
Great story about Susanna who loved Matthew and the two planned marriage and happy ever after-well at least Susanna did. As the years went by she could see that Matthew had a restless spirit and when he talked of leaving the community she knew there would be no life for them together. Susanna loved her amish life and faith and would never think of leaving it.
After Matthew left and broke her heart she slowly went to singings again and after much time she could tell that Herman Wagler a shy young man had feelings for her and after asking many times she fianally accepted. Herman came from a home that was strict amish and didnt believe in frivolity, they beleived in work and more work living a "Good life",
She knew that they could have a good life together and ask God to help her love this young man, she made the decision to marry when he ask because she had some feelings for him and knew he cared deeply for her.
Susanna came from a large family that always gathered for holidays and knew this was problem for Herman and his family.
Read Susanna's story and learn how her faith helped her live a different life then she had first chosen for herself and how God made it a better one as time went by because of her faithfulness....
It is not long enough.....
"Susanna's Christmas Wish" by Jerry Eicher
Great story about Susanna who loved Matthew and the two planned marriage and happy ever after-well at least Susanna did. As the years went by she could see that Matthew had a restless spirit and when he talked of leaving the community she knew there would be no life for them together. Susanna loved her amish life and faith and would never think of leaving it.
After Matthew left and broke her heart she slowly went to singings again and after much time she could tell that Herman Wagler a shy young man had feelings for her and after asking many times she fianally accepted. Herman came from a home that was strict amish and didnt believe in frivolity, they beleived in work and more work living a "Good life",
She knew that they could have a good life together and ask God to help her love this young man, she made the decision to marry when he ask because she had some feelings for him and knew he cared deeply for her.
Susanna came from a large family that always gathered for holidays and knew this was problem for Herman and his family.
Read Susanna's story and learn how her faith helped her live a different life then she had first chosen for herself and how God made it a better one as time went by because of her faithfulness....
November 13, 2012
A Christmas tale of love and learning.
When newlywed Susanna's old flame comes back to their district, causing troubles in her new marriage to the love of her life, Herman Wagler. It get's harder when Herman announces that he doesn't want to celebrate Christmas with a big to do. Will Susanna and Herman be able to patch things up in time for Christmas?
This is actually the first novel by Jerry Eicher that I have personally read, and it exceeded my expectations by far. It wasn't your typical heartwarming Christmas tale, (not that it wasn't heartwarming), it was more of a romance about a young couple learning and working out the difficulties in their young marriage.
I found the characters to be wonderful well developed, and I loved how this book wasn't your typical Christmas novella. The story was compelling, and heartfelt. I really wanted Herman and Susanna to finally be able to connect and understand each other better.
Overall lovely love story, in a sweet novella, from Jerry Eicher. After reading this story I know that I will definitely be reading more from Mr. Eicher in the future! A lovely Christmas love story.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
When newlywed Susanna's old flame comes back to their district, causing troubles in her new marriage to the love of her life, Herman Wagler. It get's harder when Herman announces that he doesn't want to celebrate Christmas with a big to do. Will Susanna and Herman be able to patch things up in time for Christmas?
This is actually the first novel by Jerry Eicher that I have personally read, and it exceeded my expectations by far. It wasn't your typical heartwarming Christmas tale, (not that it wasn't heartwarming), it was more of a romance about a young couple learning and working out the difficulties in their young marriage.
I found the characters to be wonderful well developed, and I loved how this book wasn't your typical Christmas novella. The story was compelling, and heartfelt. I really wanted Herman and Susanna to finally be able to connect and understand each other better.
Overall lovely love story, in a sweet novella, from Jerry Eicher. After reading this story I know that I will definitely be reading more from Mr. Eicher in the future! A lovely Christmas love story.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 26, 2012
Author: Jerry S.Eicher
Published By: Harvest House Publisher
Age Recommended: YA
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4
Review:
"Susanna's Christmas Wish" by Jerry S.Eicher was a nice holiday Amish novel. This novel was of how Susanna who thought that she would be happy ever after with Matthew, however, he decided to leave the Amish community and enter the English world. At this point Susanna knows that this would be no life for her so, she moves on and becomes interested in Herman Wagler....later they get married and life is good for them until Matthew comes back to his brother's home and then Susanna learns that Herman's family didn't celebrate Amish Christmas. Now there were two things that didn't sit well with Susanna and that was the return of Matthew and Herman not wanting his wife to celebrate 'christmas.' What will happen with all of this? This is where I say you must pick up "Susanna's Christmas Wish" to see if she got her wish!
I would recommend that you read "Susanna's Christmas Wish"... story and learn how her faith helped her live a different life than she had first chosen for herself and how God made it a better one as time went by because of her faithfulness.
December 30, 2014
I love reading Amish books written by Jerry Eicher!
They make me laugh... too often they make me cry (on many occasions)... but their truth and fullness always enrich my life. I put a lot of stock in Jerry’s books about the Amish people and their faith. Jerry Eicher had a traditional Amish childhood, then he taught in Amish and Mennonite schools, so naturally he would be a great source of information concerning the Amish people. I’m sure this is why his books seem like true stories!
Sweet Susanna Keim suffers a broken heart after her boyfriend leaves the church and the community. When Herman Wagler courts her, she turns to him for comfort. After they marry, she finds it's not as easy as she hoped it would be to fall in love with Herman. It's even harder when she discovers that Herman expects her to give up things dear to her heart.
When Matthew, her boyfriend from the past, returns to spend Thanksgiving with their family, Herman’s and Susanna’s marriage suffers. Will Susanna turn to Matthew, or will she remain true to her vows and find a lasting love with Herman?
This is a great Christmas novella... you'll be glad you took time to read it.
June 28, 2015
Life as a newlywed is tough for all newly married people. For Susanna and Herman it is tougher because she married Herman after the one man she truly loved, Matthew, left the Amish Community. To make life more difficult she tries to convince both herself and her new husband that they truly do love each other. Then there is the culture clash. Herman’s family doesn’t celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December. Her family had always celebrated on the date the English celebrated. In his culture they celebrate it on the 6th of January. Since they are married he expects her to adapt to his culture since they are now one. She goes to her sister’s house to help with Thanksgiving and learns Matthew has returned. When they go for Thanksgiving he is still there and that creates more stress. Matthew is stirring up trouble. Herman is so insecure in his marriage and then his mother gets involved. What is Susanna to do except rely on her faith in God to get her through this touch time, and to save her marriage. This is a wonderful novella. It is great no matter what time of year.
I received a copy to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I received a copy to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
November 15, 2012
I’m a sucker for Christmas novellas and I’m so glad I had the chance to read this book! Susanna’s Christmas Wish is a beautiful Amish Christmas novella that took little time to settle into and get acquainted with newlyweds Susanna and Herman – both set in their ways and traditions. I could totally relate to Susanna’s struggle in learning to be submissive to your husband especially when he comes from a different background as well as Herman’s struggle to stick with his old traditions without thinking about what all that would entail for Susanna and the new family.
When it was over I felt happy that they learned to make both the old and new work for everyone but I so want to hear more about Susanna and Herman’s life as they go on and add to their family and how they go about the struggles in life that will be sure to come forth after the Christmas celebration begins. If you want a short book to put you in the Christmas frame of mind then be sure to check out Susanna’s Christmas Wish.
When it was over I felt happy that they learned to make both the old and new work for everyone but I so want to hear more about Susanna and Herman’s life as they go on and add to their family and how they go about the struggles in life that will be sure to come forth after the Christmas celebration begins. If you want a short book to put you in the Christmas frame of mind then be sure to check out Susanna’s Christmas Wish.
October 2, 2012
Looking for a quick book with Amish believers as the main characters? This book is just what you are looking for! You will love every page.
The author, Jerry Eicher, does an excellent job of writing an easy to read and enjoy story. The characters are intriguing and their conversations will keep your attention. I thought the story itself about Christmas, past loves and current situations was relevant and everyone will enjoy it!
I gave this book 5/5 stars. I liked the story and how the characters interacted with each other. I also liked the struggles the main character Susanna went through when deciding how to celebrate Christmas. I thought the ending fit the story and I would definitely read this book again!
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
The author, Jerry Eicher, does an excellent job of writing an easy to read and enjoy story. The characters are intriguing and their conversations will keep your attention. I thought the story itself about Christmas, past loves and current situations was relevant and everyone will enjoy it!
I gave this book 5/5 stars. I liked the story and how the characters interacted with each other. I also liked the struggles the main character Susanna went through when deciding how to celebrate Christmas. I thought the ending fit the story and I would definitely read this book again!
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
September 20, 2012
I really enjoyed this story, I loved the newness of the relationship between Susanna and her husband, and how the author showed how their everyday trials helped their relationship become closer and stronger. Really enjoyable.
February 18, 2020
This book was tough because the writing style seemed "lower quality" if there is such a thing. However, there was something important I took personally from this book that helped me resolve a struggle in my own mind, so I feel there was a reason I was drawn to this book and I am thankful for that.
December 2, 2013
Even though this book is a short story, the words and message is still very powerful.
I did have to laugh at the scene of Suasanna and her mother-in-law.
I did have to laugh at the scene of Suasanna and her mother-in-law.
Read
January 21, 2013Excellent BOok
December 20, 2012
Good story. Undeveloped subplot and character(Matthew) but it's Christmas Novella, so meant to be short.
January 14, 2013
I really enjoyed this story, but there were many spots that were repetitive.
January 26, 2013
good quick little read.
November 18, 2013
A very sweet, simple love story about a newlywed Amish couple, and the compromises they make Very enjoyable quick read
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