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Ada's House #2
The Bridge of Peace
Love alone isn't enough to overcome some obstacles.
Lena Kauffman is a young Old Order Amish schoolteacher who has dealt all her life with attention raised by a noticeable birthmark on her cheek. Having learned to move past the stares and whispers, Lena channels her zest for living into her love of teaching. But tensions mount as she is challenged to work with a rebellious young man and deal with several crises at the schoolhouse that threaten her other students. Her lack of submission and use of ideas that don't line up with the Old Ways strengthen the school board's case as they begin to believe that Lena is behind all the trouble.
One member of the school board, Grey Graber, feels trapped by his own stifling circumstances. His wife, Elsie, has shut him out of her life, and he doesn't know how long he can continue to live as if nothing is wrong. As the two finally come to a place of working toward a better marriage, tragedy befalls their family.
Lena and Grey have been life-long friends, but their relationship begins to crumble amidst unsettling deceptions, propelling each of them to finally face their own secrets. Can they both find a way past their losses and discover the strength to build a new bridge?
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Lena Kauffman is a young Old Order Amish schoolteacher who has dealt all her life with attention raised by a noticeable birthmark on her cheek. Having learned to move past the stares and whispers, Lena channels her zest for living into her love of teaching. But tensions mount as she is challenged to work with a rebellious young man and deal with several crises at the schoolhouse that threaten her other students. Her lack of submission and use of ideas that don't line up with the Old Ways strengthen the school board's case as they begin to believe that Lena is behind all the trouble.
One member of the school board, Grey Graber, feels trapped by his own stifling circumstances. His wife, Elsie, has shut him out of her life, and he doesn't know how long he can continue to live as if nothing is wrong. As the two finally come to a place of working toward a better marriage, tragedy befalls their family.
Lena and Grey have been life-long friends, but their relationship begins to crumble amidst unsettling deceptions, propelling each of them to finally face their own secrets. Can they both find a way past their losses and discover the strength to build a new bridge?
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Audio CD
First published January 1, 2010
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About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
68 books1,118 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
September 27, 2010
I loved it! The characters are now part of my family. I laughed. I cried. I got angry. I cheered.
February 9, 2011
This is the 2nd in Cindy Woodsmall's Ada's House series of Amish novels. It's the story of Lena Kauffman, a single schoolteacher in an Old Order Amish community, facing both a challenging "scholar" in her classroom and a hostile school board ready to dismiss her for her independent ways. The trouble is that Lena isn't aware another enemy is lurking at every corner.
I haven't read anything by Cindy Woodsmall before. The author information page states that the author has a good grasp on the Amish community because of real-life family connections. So I was quite surprised when her characters didn't seem to fit the Amish stereotype, for lack of a better word, I have in mind. I've read several Amish novels written by another well-known writer, and her characters are vastly different in comparison. Woodsmall's characters seemed informal in their conversations, hardly an actual mention of God, and there were things the characters did that I just couldn't imagine the Amish would condone.
I found myself confused for the first 100 pages, too. There were so many different characters who were related to one another in some fashion, and I couldn't keep them straight. I believe it might be best to read the first book in the series before reading this one, in order to know who is whom. Once I caught on to the family and friend relationships, the story finally took off for me and gained momentum.
I truly wanted to love this book when I began, but I didn't. The story was somewhat interesting and a bit unpredictable, but I probably won't recommend it to my friends because it just didn't grab me. This one didn't quite compare to other Amish novels I've read and enjoyed. I will probably pass on others written by Woodsmall.
I wish to thank Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for providing me with a free copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I haven't read anything by Cindy Woodsmall before. The author information page states that the author has a good grasp on the Amish community because of real-life family connections. So I was quite surprised when her characters didn't seem to fit the Amish stereotype, for lack of a better word, I have in mind. I've read several Amish novels written by another well-known writer, and her characters are vastly different in comparison. Woodsmall's characters seemed informal in their conversations, hardly an actual mention of God, and there were things the characters did that I just couldn't imagine the Amish would condone.
I found myself confused for the first 100 pages, too. There were so many different characters who were related to one another in some fashion, and I couldn't keep them straight. I believe it might be best to read the first book in the series before reading this one, in order to know who is whom. Once I caught on to the family and friend relationships, the story finally took off for me and gained momentum.
I truly wanted to love this book when I began, but I didn't. The story was somewhat interesting and a bit unpredictable, but I probably won't recommend it to my friends because it just didn't grab me. This one didn't quite compare to other Amish novels I've read and enjoyed. I will probably pass on others written by Woodsmall.
I wish to thank Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for providing me with a free copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
September 24, 2011
Have you ever picked up a book that you couldn't put down but had to because you couldn't bear to read any more but then you picked it right back up again because you couldn't bear not knowing what's going to happen? LOL. Maybe I'm the only one who gets so emotionally involved with the characters that sometimes it just plain hurts to read. Anyway this was that kind of book for me.
It's the second in the Ada's House series, and while reading the first book, The Hope of Refuge, isn't completely necessary, it would enrich your enjoyment of this one. Be prepared for an edgy read, though. This isn't your typical Amish romance as Woodsmall introduces a darker element to the plot. A definite page-turner.
Lena is so much fun! I really enjoyed her character, her mischief-making and delight in sharing laughter with those around her. She's definitely a different image of what you might think a stereotypical Amish woman would be. And I adored the relationship she has with her father. So loving and gentle, with lots of teasing thrown in. He is such a haven for her as more and more difficulties arise.
I also appreciated the recurring roles of favourite characters, Cara, Ephraim, Ada and Deborah (not to mention Better Days) from the Hope of Refuge. Woodsmall deftly wove their stories in and around Lena's, making this book a rich and satisfying read. !
It's the second in the Ada's House series, and while reading the first book, The Hope of Refuge, isn't completely necessary, it would enrich your enjoyment of this one. Be prepared for an edgy read, though. This isn't your typical Amish romance as Woodsmall introduces a darker element to the plot. A definite page-turner.
Lena is so much fun! I really enjoyed her character, her mischief-making and delight in sharing laughter with those around her. She's definitely a different image of what you might think a stereotypical Amish woman would be. And I adored the relationship she has with her father. So loving and gentle, with lots of teasing thrown in. He is such a haven for her as more and more difficulties arise.
I also appreciated the recurring roles of favourite characters, Cara, Ephraim, Ada and Deborah (not to mention Better Days) from the Hope of Refuge. Woodsmall deftly wove their stories in and around Lena's, making this book a rich and satisfying read. !
October 15, 2019
If you're looking for a sweet little story about the good and simple Amish people, this will not fit the bill. There are some pithy issues dealt with in this story and the Amish are not portrayed in a perfect and idealized way. This is a romance novel, at its core and there are a lot of "misunderstandings" between people that one can expect from the romance genre. But it does all work out in the end (which is also to be expected from a modern-day romance). I enjoyed it, for the most part, with only a wee bit of eye-rolling at all of the confusion between the would-be couples.
Clean readers: 100% clean.
Clean readers: 100% clean.
September 7, 2017
It kept me on my toes and made me feel strong for Lena as she was dealing with so much.
November 3, 2025
An enjoyable feel good book about the struggles and trials of an Amish community.
March 7, 2011
Title: THE BRIDGE OF PEACE
Author: Cindy Woodsmall
Publisher: Waterbrook
August 2010
ISBN: 978-1-4000-7397-9
Genre: Inspirational/Amish
Lena Kauffman is the school teacher in an Old Amish community. She has a huge birthmark on the side of her face, which she feels mars her beauty. This has been compounded by the fact that over the years, no one has ever wanted to court her. This year is difficult. There is a new family in the community with a teen that is difficult to teach. He keeps flinging insults at Lena, and she stands up to him, but soon finds herself the target of even more vicious attacks.
Grey Graber is struggling with his marriage. He wants to get help, but his wife wants their issues kept private. But Grey doesn’t know how to reach her. When they begin to make strides toward healing tragedy strikes the family. Will Grey find the strength to move on?
Grey & Lena have been life-long friends, but circumstances are crumbling their friendship. Will they be able to face their secrets and restore their friendship?
THE BRIDGE OF PEACE is book two in An Ada’s House series. I was hopelessly confused in the beginning of the book, as I didn’t remember reading book one at all. I had, but apparently it didn’t make a strong enough impression on me that I remembered it almost two years later. But once I got into Lena’s story, I was captured. I was horrified by Dwayne’s actions, seriously that boy needs help, and I don’t think I’d want my daughters to read this Amish book…it didn’t leave that feel-good feeling that a lot of Amish books leave.
However, I totally adored Jonathan, and Ephraim, and even Grey, though he had his issues as well. And Lena, Deborah, and Cara were strong characters. Realistic. I’m giving this book five stars with reservations, mainly due to Dwayne, and the confusion in the beginning of the book. $13.99. 342 pages.
Author: Cindy Woodsmall
Publisher: Waterbrook
August 2010
ISBN: 978-1-4000-7397-9
Genre: Inspirational/Amish
Lena Kauffman is the school teacher in an Old Amish community. She has a huge birthmark on the side of her face, which she feels mars her beauty. This has been compounded by the fact that over the years, no one has ever wanted to court her. This year is difficult. There is a new family in the community with a teen that is difficult to teach. He keeps flinging insults at Lena, and she stands up to him, but soon finds herself the target of even more vicious attacks.
Grey Graber is struggling with his marriage. He wants to get help, but his wife wants their issues kept private. But Grey doesn’t know how to reach her. When they begin to make strides toward healing tragedy strikes the family. Will Grey find the strength to move on?
Grey & Lena have been life-long friends, but circumstances are crumbling their friendship. Will they be able to face their secrets and restore their friendship?
THE BRIDGE OF PEACE is book two in An Ada’s House series. I was hopelessly confused in the beginning of the book, as I didn’t remember reading book one at all. I had, but apparently it didn’t make a strong enough impression on me that I remembered it almost two years later. But once I got into Lena’s story, I was captured. I was horrified by Dwayne’s actions, seriously that boy needs help, and I don’t think I’d want my daughters to read this Amish book…it didn’t leave that feel-good feeling that a lot of Amish books leave.
However, I totally adored Jonathan, and Ephraim, and even Grey, though he had his issues as well. And Lena, Deborah, and Cara were strong characters. Realistic. I’m giving this book five stars with reservations, mainly due to Dwayne, and the confusion in the beginning of the book. $13.99. 342 pages.
February 16, 2011
This second book in the “Ada's House” series picks up right where the first one left off. While the central character in this novel is schoolteacher Lena, others that we've come to know and love in “The Hope of Refuge” continue their stories through these pages as well.
Lena is plagued by self-consciousness because of the birthmark on her face. She is convinced that no one can see past the blemish into her warm and fun-loving heart. Despite her fears she is quite a spunky lady and has come under the censure of the school board for following her own instincts and not the Old Ways to reach the children under her care.
Someone in the community does not like Lena at all. A dark plot to destroy Lena's reputation and even her life takes form. Tragedies begin happening in the schoolyard. The community is soon polarized over this woman whose best efforts seem to fall flat on their face time and again.
Cindy Woodsmall is an excellent writer, and while her stories do not ring completely true with my own experience of living near an Amish community in the Midwest, my interest was definitely held all the way through. It was a little confusing keeping all the characters straight and I thought it would have been helpful to have had a recap of who was who at the beginning. I had to chuckle when I turned the last page and saw there was indeed such a cast of characters, only it was placed after the story when it was too late to do the reader any good. Oh well.
I've enjoyed this series and will be watching for the final installment coming in Fall 2011!
WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group provided this book to me for free in exchange for this honest review.
This review originally appeared at http://wwww.reviewsbyerin.livejournal...
Lena is plagued by self-consciousness because of the birthmark on her face. She is convinced that no one can see past the blemish into her warm and fun-loving heart. Despite her fears she is quite a spunky lady and has come under the censure of the school board for following her own instincts and not the Old Ways to reach the children under her care.
Someone in the community does not like Lena at all. A dark plot to destroy Lena's reputation and even her life takes form. Tragedies begin happening in the schoolyard. The community is soon polarized over this woman whose best efforts seem to fall flat on their face time and again.
Cindy Woodsmall is an excellent writer, and while her stories do not ring completely true with my own experience of living near an Amish community in the Midwest, my interest was definitely held all the way through. It was a little confusing keeping all the characters straight and I thought it would have been helpful to have had a recap of who was who at the beginning. I had to chuckle when I turned the last page and saw there was indeed such a cast of characters, only it was placed after the story when it was too late to do the reader any good. Oh well.
I've enjoyed this series and will be watching for the final installment coming in Fall 2011!
WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group provided this book to me for free in exchange for this honest review.
This review originally appeared at http://wwww.reviewsbyerin.livejournal...
April 16, 2015
'The Bridge of Peace' is Woodsmall's second book in the Ada House
series and follows the story of Lena Kauffman. Lena is in her early
twenties and is an Old Order Amish schoolteacher with a visible
birthmark on her cheek, which she feels is the reason that she has
never been courted. Taunted mercilessly as a child, she is unable to
see her own beauty.
Grey Graber grew up with Lena and always admired her. However, being
7 years older, he never pursued a relationship with her. Instead her
married Elsie, a beautiful Amish girl with a dark cloud over her soul.
Their first child, Ivan, was born with a birth defect. This causes
Elsie to become withdrawn and depressed. The stillbirth of their
second child sent her into a downward spiral of bitterness and hate.
When tragedy strikes, Lena and Grey's lives seem to draw them to each
other. But Lena feels as if no man could truly love her and Grey has
his own issues that he must work through.
Meanwhile, storylines from the first book are being explored and
developed. Cara and Ephraim are still working on their upcoming
marriage and Cara's conversion to the Amish. Deborah is coming to
terms with Mahlon leaving and learning how to move forward with life.
Also, there are some new characters that are introduced, including
Dwayne, a troubled Amish boy who has a dangerous obsession with Lena.
I'm giving the book 5 stars because the characters were so real. I
loved Lena's spunk, Grey's faith in his son, Cara's blunt ways,
Deborah's journey to healing. I feel as if Woodsmall captured their
very soul and brought them to life. It would be hard to dislike the
characters in this series!
series and follows the story of Lena Kauffman. Lena is in her early
twenties and is an Old Order Amish schoolteacher with a visible
birthmark on her cheek, which she feels is the reason that she has
never been courted. Taunted mercilessly as a child, she is unable to
see her own beauty.
Grey Graber grew up with Lena and always admired her. However, being
7 years older, he never pursued a relationship with her. Instead her
married Elsie, a beautiful Amish girl with a dark cloud over her soul.
Their first child, Ivan, was born with a birth defect. This causes
Elsie to become withdrawn and depressed. The stillbirth of their
second child sent her into a downward spiral of bitterness and hate.
When tragedy strikes, Lena and Grey's lives seem to draw them to each
other. But Lena feels as if no man could truly love her and Grey has
his own issues that he must work through.
Meanwhile, storylines from the first book are being explored and
developed. Cara and Ephraim are still working on their upcoming
marriage and Cara's conversion to the Amish. Deborah is coming to
terms with Mahlon leaving and learning how to move forward with life.
Also, there are some new characters that are introduced, including
Dwayne, a troubled Amish boy who has a dangerous obsession with Lena.
I'm giving the book 5 stars because the characters were so real. I
loved Lena's spunk, Grey's faith in his son, Cara's blunt ways,
Deborah's journey to healing. I feel as if Woodsmall captured their
very soul and brought them to life. It would be hard to dislike the
characters in this series!
February 18, 2011
The metaphor of this story if what grabs me every time I read this book and this is the second time I have done so. The symbol of the “bridge” between two of the characters always makes me take a moment and savor the power of it.
There are several of such moments in this book, I wish I could share them all, but you’ll have to read the book to find them. Suffice it is to say I stop, dwell on the words, their rhythm and impact.
I love how Cindy’s books move with a very easy quality. There aren’t a lot of hundred dollar words, but she paints a picture of life in an Amish community that could very easily be any other community amongst you and I.
All the plots in this book make it an interesting read, but never a confusing one. Lena, Grey, Cara, Deborah, Jonathon, they all are painted with depth and precision and I am looking forward to book three getting here in a few months. It promises a fabulous conclusion. I would suggest reading this series in order.
I think above all the story is a prevailing one. It speaks to the heart with the characters and the words that make them dance across the page.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
There are several of such moments in this book, I wish I could share them all, but you’ll have to read the book to find them. Suffice it is to say I stop, dwell on the words, their rhythm and impact.
I love how Cindy’s books move with a very easy quality. There aren’t a lot of hundred dollar words, but she paints a picture of life in an Amish community that could very easily be any other community amongst you and I.
All the plots in this book make it an interesting read, but never a confusing one. Lena, Grey, Cara, Deborah, Jonathon, they all are painted with depth and precision and I am looking forward to book three getting here in a few months. It promises a fabulous conclusion. I would suggest reading this series in order.
I think above all the story is a prevailing one. It speaks to the heart with the characters and the words that make them dance across the page.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
September 1, 2013
I love the fact that my county is the back drop in this series.
Even a local doctor is featured in the first book with a few lines. I went to school with his children and graduated with his oldest son, who at 32 yrs old is going back to college to be a doctor too.
Enough about that. Cindy Woodsmall as always writes an excellent book.
Even a local doctor is featured in the first book with a few lines. I went to school with his children and graduated with his oldest son, who at 32 yrs old is going back to college to be a doctor too.
Enough about that. Cindy Woodsmall as always writes an excellent book.
January 11, 2017
Excellent writing. Good information about Amish in modern times. It shows that no matter your faith or denomination, we all go through the same struggles, have the same things affect us. Sin is not new! Those who have true Faith know how to deal with it.
September 15, 2017
The Bridge of Peace
by Cindy Woodsmall is the second book of a three book series: Ada's House. This trilogy reminded me how much I enjoy books by this author. Ms. Woodsmall creates tales with emotional dynamics that pulls me in, keeps me reading intently without wanting to put down the book, and connect with the well-developed characters so that I feel I have a vested interest in the outcome.
Cara and Ephraim's story is continued from the first book into this one. We also get to know Deborah, Ephraim's sister a little better since she, Cara and Ada live together in Hope Crossing now. Cara is helping Deborah recover when her fiance leaves her and his mother without support. It seems he even left the Amish lifestyle behind him. The three women eventually establish a good business as a bakery in their new setting in spite of a rough beginning, while Ada continues to mentor Cara.
Meanwhile back in Dry Lake, where the story originated, Teacher Lena is having difficulties in school with a rebellious and angry student, a bull in the neighboring pasture threatens the school children, Grey is having marital difficulties, Jonathan is attracted to Deborah, Israel is beginning to see Ada, and Dwane is being downright creepy. While we don't know these characters now, this authors manages to capture our interest in them quickly as our sense of community grows. Suspense builds, and so does the drama. I recommend you bring along a box of tissues when you read this book. The drama in this tale is just as heart-wrenching and touching as those in the first book.
Midst all the emotional valleys and mountain tops, this author holds it all together with great humor and meaningful life lessons. I found it helpful to read this book right after book 1 of the series. The three books together run seamlessly into each other, building on the storyline right at the beginning. You can read them independently, but you would lose some of the references to the action that went on before. Because of that, I recommend purchasing these books together.
One other thing really attracts me to this author's works. She weaves into her stories examples that steadfastly demonstrate God's involvement in our everyday lives. These stories are like word pictures in action. We're not preached at, but we see God's principles enacted throughout the book in such a way that it has to touch our hearts. Whenever I read her books, I find myself delving into deep thoughts of spiritual meaning, how God can live through me more effectively, showing how much He loves His children. All this comes so naturally to the author's pen, that we barely notice it while reading these tales. This is why Cindy Woodsmall is one of my top favorite authors.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Bethany House (a division of Baker Publishing). I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Cara and Ephraim's story is continued from the first book into this one. We also get to know Deborah, Ephraim's sister a little better since she, Cara and Ada live together in Hope Crossing now. Cara is helping Deborah recover when her fiance leaves her and his mother without support. It seems he even left the Amish lifestyle behind him. The three women eventually establish a good business as a bakery in their new setting in spite of a rough beginning, while Ada continues to mentor Cara.
Meanwhile back in Dry Lake, where the story originated, Teacher Lena is having difficulties in school with a rebellious and angry student, a bull in the neighboring pasture threatens the school children, Grey is having marital difficulties, Jonathan is attracted to Deborah, Israel is beginning to see Ada, and Dwane is being downright creepy. While we don't know these characters now, this authors manages to capture our interest in them quickly as our sense of community grows. Suspense builds, and so does the drama. I recommend you bring along a box of tissues when you read this book. The drama in this tale is just as heart-wrenching and touching as those in the first book.
Midst all the emotional valleys and mountain tops, this author holds it all together with great humor and meaningful life lessons. I found it helpful to read this book right after book 1 of the series. The three books together run seamlessly into each other, building on the storyline right at the beginning. You can read them independently, but you would lose some of the references to the action that went on before. Because of that, I recommend purchasing these books together.
One other thing really attracts me to this author's works. She weaves into her stories examples that steadfastly demonstrate God's involvement in our everyday lives. These stories are like word pictures in action. We're not preached at, but we see God's principles enacted throughout the book in such a way that it has to touch our hearts. Whenever I read her books, I find myself delving into deep thoughts of spiritual meaning, how God can live through me more effectively, showing how much He loves His children. All this comes so naturally to the author's pen, that we barely notice it while reading these tales. This is why Cindy Woodsmall is one of my top favorite authors.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Bethany House (a division of Baker Publishing). I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
January 13, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up. I didn't love this one as much as I loved book 1 of this series--the violence was a little much for me, as it included animal cruelty and my animal lover heart could barely take it. Thankfully it didn't get too detailed and it wasn't a big part of the plot, but if it got to be any more I probably would've DNFed.
Not only that, the last 70ish pages kind of annoyed me and didn't make much sense? Lol its hard to describe if you haven't read the book, but the protagonist was just annoying me and did a couple 180s with her feelings and actions.
That set aside, I still did enjoy this book and am enjoying this sereis! I did love that we got to see the character development of characters from book 1 and got to see how their stories were developing too! I really like the author's writing style and I'm excited to see how this series sends.
Not only that, the last 70ish pages kind of annoyed me and didn't make much sense? Lol its hard to describe if you haven't read the book, but the protagonist was just annoying me and did a couple 180s with her feelings and actions.
That set aside, I still did enjoy this book and am enjoying this sereis! I did love that we got to see the character development of characters from book 1 and got to see how their stories were developing too! I really like the author's writing style and I'm excited to see how this series sends.
December 24, 2018
Picking up where book 1 in this series left off, the story concentrates on Lena Kauffman, the community's school teacher. She loves her job and loves the children - and assumes she will be teaching for a long time as she has no prospects for marriage. She believes it's because of the large birthmark on her face, and she's made peace with it. But several things happen that get her into trouble with the school board, and she's eventually fired. Her one advocate on the board has no idea what happened because he is in mourning over his wife's accidental death. When he does learn of Lena's situation, he discovers it's worse than anyone realized and he finds himself saving her life....in more ways than one.
Another excellent novel by Cindy Woodsmall.
Another excellent novel by Cindy Woodsmall.
February 23, 2023
While Cara struggles to accept the Amish way of life and the teachings of the Ordnung, Mahlon’s abandonment of Deborah rocks her and Ada’s world and the three women struggle to make ends meet at Ada’s House. Meanwhile teacher Lena faces the challenge of a disruptive student, his violent older brother and a tragedy that rocks a husband and his young son. I was especially drawn to Grey’s character because of his guilt over the troubles in his marriage and the needs of his handicapped son but loved the dynamics of his friendship with Lena and her joyful spirit. It’s impossible not to become completely absorbed by Cindy Woodsmall’s storytelling, her well rounded characters and the deeply emotional trials, tribulations, and joys of Amish life.
February 9, 2018
I love Amish stories. This one is no exception, however, this book was a bit more intense than the usual books. It had some disturbing events, a couple so disturbing I had to keep reading until the images were out of my head. One messed up character for sure! But, I did love the story otherwise! And the characters other than the one were just wonderful. The story was well written and just a great read! I have not read the first in this series, but I am hoping to in the future. I found this onein a thrift shop and picked it up like I do most amish stories I find.
November 30, 2022
Disclaimer: I read this book first before I read the first one. I was lost at first but the character guide in the back helps keep all the characters together.
Overall I enjoyed this book. The characters were great. The plots were pretty solid. I will most likely go back and read the first one then read the third one. Also this book screams early 2000s with mentions of the twin towers and a character randomly named Dugger.
Overall I enjoyed this book. The characters were great. The plots were pretty solid. I will most likely go back and read the first one then read the third one. Also this book screams early 2000s with mentions of the twin towers and a character randomly named Dugger.
August 17, 2019
Insight
This book gives much insight into the many Amish rules about how things are supposed to be in Amish life especially of Old Order Amish. It is an excellent book. I enjoyed it immensely and recommend it to all who love reading Amish stories. I do advise the trilogy be read in order.
This book gives much insight into the many Amish rules about how things are supposed to be in Amish life especially of Old Order Amish. It is an excellent book. I enjoyed it immensely and recommend it to all who love reading Amish stories. I do advise the trilogy be read in order.
September 13, 2021
Epic! Wow! This book kept me on my toes. It is important to read the first book in the series. There was so much ups and downs in the book, it is hard to put down. Unexpected twists and plot turns baffle the reader. I highly recommend this book. I have yet to read a Cindy Woodsmall book that is not amazing.
December 2, 2018
Great Read!!
This was an amazing book, just like the first one. It is full of love, excitement, and intrigue. Cindy Woodsmall is a very talented writer. I look forward to reading more of her books.
This was an amazing book, just like the first one. It is full of love, excitement, and intrigue. Cindy Woodsmall is a very talented writer. I look forward to reading more of her books.
June 6, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. The characters are complex and the plot is intriguing. There’s a good deal of suspense as well. I’m so glad the MCs found their happy ending. Happy reading/listening!
November 29, 2020
This book has you going through a lot of emotional turns with the characters in the book.
I didn’t like the sections where one of the characters abuses some animals and his other deranged behavior.
December 27, 2021
There is a lot of drama in this second book of the Ada's House series. It held my attention and kept me guessing what was going to happen next. There was more romance than I expected and definitely more than I care for.
I'm looking forward to seeing how things wrap up in the next book.
I'm looking forward to seeing how things wrap up in the next book.
January 20, 2022
Lena is part of the Amish of the Old order and she is a school teacher who can be set in her ways..but this isn't just her story it's Grey's and Debbie's and many others all very close..they deal with love and death and imperfecions as well as other things..another good book
March 12, 2018
A great second book in this series.
April 9, 2019
Love this series!!
February 14, 2020
kept my interest through complete book, full of suspense when two older students in the amish school bully the teacher. Will Lena overcome on her own when the community isn't helping her.
October 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this story and the issues of following the Old Order Amish ways. It has suspense, love and romance.
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