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An Amish Family Christmas
After tragedy strikes the family of young Naomi Miller, her friend Rebecca Bachman does all she can to help. But things get complicated when Rebecca’s brother, Micah, returns from a combat tour in Afghanistan. For one thing, he chose to serve in the military even though he served as a medic and never picked up a gun. For another, he is under the Meidung—the shunning— because of that and none of the Amish are permitted to speak to him or eat with him. And finally, he is not only Rebecca's brother, he is Naomi's husband! But how can Naomi pick up where their marriage left off after he turned away from her and his people to enlist in the army? How can Naomi and Micah even begin the process of healing their relationship when he will not repent of what he has done and the Amish will not forgive him for what he has done? Naomi despairs of ever again having a happy married life with her husband.
But God has a way of working on the hearts of His people—especially at Christmas time. When an unexpected turn of events sets things right, miracles happen to the Amish community, to the Miller family, and to Naomi and Micah, miracles that transform everyone.
Here is warm and tender story of faithfulness, love, and reconciliation at the most wonderful time of the year.
But God has a way of working on the hearts of His people—especially at Christmas time. When an unexpected turn of events sets things right, miracles happen to the Amish community, to the Miller family, and to Naomi and Micah, miracles that transform everyone.
Here is warm and tender story of faithfulness, love, and reconciliation at the most wonderful time of the year.
144 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
23 people are currently reading
2595 people want to read
About the author
Murray Pura
150 books747 followersreader, writer, author, free thinker
books published in 2023
KINGFISHER CROSS
NEVENA IN LOVE
CLARA RAVEN
UNDER THE STONES
available on Amazon, B&N, Indigo, etc.
listed for Best Series of the Year Award 2023
Hemingway Award 2022 Seattle
Word Guild Award 2022, 2012 Toronto
books published in 2023
KINGFISHER CROSS
NEVENA IN LOVE
CLARA RAVEN
UNDER THE STONES
available on Amazon, B&N, Indigo, etc.
listed for Best Series of the Year Award 2023
Hemingway Award 2022 Seattle
Word Guild Award 2022, 2012 Toronto
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 20, 2015
This book was my introduction to Murry Pura. To be completely honest, I didn't pay attention to the author's name and had no idea that the book was written by a man until the end. Before reading this book, I had only read Amish fiction written by women. Murray won me over with this book. His writing style is wonderful and he gently pulls you into the story and keeps you there until the last word.
This book was wonderfully written and realistic. The characters are genuine and complex. They have problems and aren't living the perfect stress-free life so many people think the Amish live.
The storyline of this book was different from any I had read in the Amish fiction genre. I found this unique and refreshing. It added to the authenticity of the characters are made for a wonderful read. In fact, there is a lot packed into this 146-page book but it is so well written that I finished the book quickly.
This book will leave you with a happy heart. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Amish fiction.
This book was wonderfully written and realistic. The characters are genuine and complex. They have problems and aren't living the perfect stress-free life so many people think the Amish live.
The storyline of this book was different from any I had read in the Amish fiction genre. I found this unique and refreshing. It added to the authenticity of the characters are made for a wonderful read. In fact, there is a lot packed into this 146-page book but it is so well written that I finished the book quickly.
This book will leave you with a happy heart. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Amish fiction.
October 2, 2013
Young Micah has returned from Iraq where he felt called by God to heal wounded soldiers. But there is one very big problem--Micah is Amish. Amish do not believe in fighting in wars and do not allow their church members to serve in the military in any capacity--even healing. Naomi's family has been killed and her surviving brother, Luke, is in a catatonic state. Naomi and her friend and sister-in-law, Rebecca, work to restore Luke to full health and Micah returns from the war. The church puts him under the bann when he refuses to say that he was wrong to serve in the war as a medic. Micah and Naomi can not speak or even sleep in the same room. They long to be together as a husband and wife are meant to be. Can they change the Ordnung ? Will Luke ever speak again or get up and walk?
MY REVIEW: This is a very compelling story. I felt the agony that Micah and Naomi were experiencing as Murray Pura's words are so descriptive and heartfelt. I have read many Amish Christmas stories and this one is far different from all of the others. I simply can not imagine enduring a shunning of my own spouse! Micah has been away from his wife and family for a year and he and Naomi long to hold each other. They are forbidden to do so. I will be honest and say that I do not think I could obey the rules of the Amish church in this respect. I value many of their practices and beliefs but not this one! So, to be preparing to celebrate Christmas, it would lack joy and wonder for me with shunning being practiced. I was eager to read this book and when I had to stop to do housework, I was anxious to get back to my kindle to see how Murray Pura resolves these incredible conflicts. This story shows God's forgiveness and miracles, for sure and certain. The bann is dealt with honestly and accurately.
I received a free kindle version of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
MY REVIEW: This is a very compelling story. I felt the agony that Micah and Naomi were experiencing as Murray Pura's words are so descriptive and heartfelt. I have read many Amish Christmas stories and this one is far different from all of the others. I simply can not imagine enduring a shunning of my own spouse! Micah has been away from his wife and family for a year and he and Naomi long to hold each other. They are forbidden to do so. I will be honest and say that I do not think I could obey the rules of the Amish church in this respect. I value many of their practices and beliefs but not this one! So, to be preparing to celebrate Christmas, it would lack joy and wonder for me with shunning being practiced. I was eager to read this book and when I had to stop to do housework, I was anxious to get back to my kindle to see how Murray Pura resolves these incredible conflicts. This story shows God's forgiveness and miracles, for sure and certain. The bann is dealt with honestly and accurately.
I received a free kindle version of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
December 11, 2025
I wanted a short and quick read, and this was the smallest book on my shelf, only 137 pages. It was a little repetitive, but I did enjoy it.
September 9, 2013
Naomi Bachman is grieving the passing of her parents and sister after a tragic accident. Her brother Luke was wounded in the accident and lost the control over his limbs and the ability to speak. Her husband Micah was gone on a tour of duty in Afghanistan while the tragedy occurred. Sister-in-law Rebecca is staying with Naomi and is doing her best to help and encourage her.
Naomi doesn’t know what to think of her husband. She doesn’t understand why he left her to go to war and broke the rules of the Ordnung by enlisting.
When Micah comes home, he is shunned and not allowed to speak or eat with other Amish. He is living under the same roof with his wife, but cannot speak to her, touch her, nor eat with her. The shunning will be lifted as soon as he repents of having gone to war, but Micah cannot repent because he felt it was God who sent him there to do the work of a medic and save people’s lives.
Christmas is nearing and letters and postcards from grateful family members of soldiers, whose lives Micah had saved, start to arrive. Naomi is beginning to see another side of her husband by reading the letters and notes and slowly she starts to understand some of the reasons why he enlisted. She takes the mail to the bishop, hoping that he will also be touched by reading the letters and will do something to stop the shunning. She prayes that hearts and rules will be changed.
When an accident occurs in their community, and Micah rushes to offer his help, will it change the thinking of the Ministers of the Amish church, or will it only make Micah’s predicament worse?
Such a captivating and moving story! Once I started reading it, I had a hard time putting it down. I think the author beautifully portrayed that even if we don’t always understand the things that are happening around us, that doesn’t mean it’s not from God.
A wonderful novella for Christmas, or any time of the year!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*
Naomi doesn’t know what to think of her husband. She doesn’t understand why he left her to go to war and broke the rules of the Ordnung by enlisting.
When Micah comes home, he is shunned and not allowed to speak or eat with other Amish. He is living under the same roof with his wife, but cannot speak to her, touch her, nor eat with her. The shunning will be lifted as soon as he repents of having gone to war, but Micah cannot repent because he felt it was God who sent him there to do the work of a medic and save people’s lives.
Christmas is nearing and letters and postcards from grateful family members of soldiers, whose lives Micah had saved, start to arrive. Naomi is beginning to see another side of her husband by reading the letters and notes and slowly she starts to understand some of the reasons why he enlisted. She takes the mail to the bishop, hoping that he will also be touched by reading the letters and will do something to stop the shunning. She prayes that hearts and rules will be changed.
When an accident occurs in their community, and Micah rushes to offer his help, will it change the thinking of the Ministers of the Amish church, or will it only make Micah’s predicament worse?
Such a captivating and moving story! Once I started reading it, I had a hard time putting it down. I think the author beautifully portrayed that even if we don’t always understand the things that are happening around us, that doesn’t mean it’s not from God.
A wonderful novella for Christmas, or any time of the year!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*
October 12, 2013
The convictions of a brave man who would bring relief to suffering by serving as a medic in to American troops and others in need in the conflict in Afghanistan meet a wall of convictions shared by the Amish community where he has belonged.
That wall believes the service conviction violates the no involvement with war. In keeping with other policies in the community, the declaration that Micah will be excluded and/or shunned by all except in an emergency extends even to his wife, Naomi. Naomi and Micah have been separated by his absence for service since they were first married. When he returns from serving, they are still under the edict of exclusion although they may share a house
Murray Pura addresses the different aspects of the two conviction aspects without painting any character as a classic bad guy. The tender treatment helps readers feel the spiritual discomfort of all who are involved. As we would hope in a good tale, the story turns on the faith of the characters to bring them into a different point of view. Naomi determines to connect with her husband regardless of rules at the risk of her own exclusion.
An emergency calls for Micah to share his skills, saving the life of a community member. That tender care opens enlightenment for leadership who are struggling to maintain faith, who are hungry for spiritual direction over the potential of power driven by fear.
Without diminishing the statement of their community and being 'un-Amish' the group comes to a higher, gentler spiritual level as this sweet Christmas story works through.
Any reader's convictions regarding faith practices has to be sensitive to the spiritual path of the characters in this story...a spiritual path that may be reflected in the real lives of neighbors who represent many cultures. Pura brings the spiritual to the forefront without focusing over much on the 'politics'.
I was given a copy of this book by the publishers, but was not required to write reviews. It was a pleasant task to read and review another excellent story from Murray Pura
That wall believes the service conviction violates the no involvement with war. In keeping with other policies in the community, the declaration that Micah will be excluded and/or shunned by all except in an emergency extends even to his wife, Naomi. Naomi and Micah have been separated by his absence for service since they were first married. When he returns from serving, they are still under the edict of exclusion although they may share a house
Murray Pura addresses the different aspects of the two conviction aspects without painting any character as a classic bad guy. The tender treatment helps readers feel the spiritual discomfort of all who are involved. As we would hope in a good tale, the story turns on the faith of the characters to bring them into a different point of view. Naomi determines to connect with her husband regardless of rules at the risk of her own exclusion.
An emergency calls for Micah to share his skills, saving the life of a community member. That tender care opens enlightenment for leadership who are struggling to maintain faith, who are hungry for spiritual direction over the potential of power driven by fear.
Without diminishing the statement of their community and being 'un-Amish' the group comes to a higher, gentler spiritual level as this sweet Christmas story works through.
Any reader's convictions regarding faith practices has to be sensitive to the spiritual path of the characters in this story...a spiritual path that may be reflected in the real lives of neighbors who represent many cultures. Pura brings the spiritual to the forefront without focusing over much on the 'politics'.
I was given a copy of this book by the publishers, but was not required to write reviews. It was a pleasant task to read and review another excellent story from Murray Pura
November 13, 2013
An Amish Christmas
By: Murray Pura
A major accident has left Naomi’s parents and one sister dead and a brother who may not be himself again. Their buggy was broadsided by drunk driver. Turned Naomi’s world upside down. She is there to face it alone her husband Micah has gone off to war. Not even knowing he will come alive. And if he does he will be shunned. Going off to war is against the Ordnung. If Micah comes back they can not be together as husband and wife. How will things workout? Can changes happen? There is another major accident going to happen in the book life and death situation. Please get the book it is really good. This book is a 5 star book. Another great writing by Murray Pura.
I was given this book in exchange for my own honest review. Thanks Netgalley
By: Murray Pura
A major accident has left Naomi’s parents and one sister dead and a brother who may not be himself again. Their buggy was broadsided by drunk driver. Turned Naomi’s world upside down. She is there to face it alone her husband Micah has gone off to war. Not even knowing he will come alive. And if he does he will be shunned. Going off to war is against the Ordnung. If Micah comes back they can not be together as husband and wife. How will things workout? Can changes happen? There is another major accident going to happen in the book life and death situation. Please get the book it is really good. This book is a 5 star book. Another great writing by Murray Pura.
I was given this book in exchange for my own honest review. Thanks Netgalley
December 18, 2024
One of the most meaningful Amish books I have read in a long time. Highly recommend.
October 22, 2013
About the Book:
After tragedy strikes the family of young Naomi Miller, her friend Rebecca Bachman does all she can to help. But things get complicated when Rebecca's brother, Micah, returns from a combat tour in Afghanistan. For one thing, he chose to serve in the military even though he served as a medic and never picked up a gun. For another, he is under the Meidung--the shunning-- because of that and none of the Amish are permitted to speak to him or eat with him. And finally, he is not only Rebecca's brother, he is Naomi's husband! But how can Naomi pick up where their marriage left off after he turned away from her and his people to enlist in the army? How can Naomi and Micah even begin the process of healing their relationship when he will not repent of what he has done and the Amish will not forgive him for what he has done?
Naomi despairs of ever again having a happy married life with her husband. But God has a way of working on the hearts of His people--especially at Christmas time. When an unexpected turn of events sets things right, miracles happen to the Amish community, to the Miller family, and to Naomi and Micah, miracles that transform everyone. Here is warm and tender story of faithfulness, love, and reconciliation at the most wonderful time of the year.
About the Author:
Murray Pura was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, just north of the Dakotas and Minnesota. His first novel was released in Toronto in 1988 and was a finalist for the Dartmouth Book Award. Since that time he has published ten more novels, two collections of short stories, and several nonfiction titles including the Zondervan books Rooted and Streams and the Baker devotional Majestic & Wild. He has been a finalist for several awards in the US and Canada and in 2012 won the Word Award of Toronto for Best Historical Novel.
Murray lives and writes in southwestern Alberta and is currently published by Barbour, Baker, Harper One, Zondervan, and Harvest House - he works with publishers in Canada, America, the UK, and Holland. His releases for 2013 include the novels: Ashton Park, The Rose of Lancaster County, A Road Called Love, Seven Oaks, The Painted Sky, Whispers of a New Dawn, Beneath the Dover Sky, The Name of the Hawk, and An Amish Family Christmas. His diverse writing spans many genres including: historical fiction, contemporary fiction, literary fiction, romance, adventure, western, suspense, fantasy, Amish, and inspirational. Most of his work is available in ebook format for Kindle, Kobo, and Nook as well as in paperback.
My Review:
It is all Naomi could just to stand upright much less be kind and forgiving to the Lord for what she felt like He allowed to happen. But her faithful friend, Rebecca, was right by her side to help her pick up the pieces and sort it all out. But it is no wonder this poor girl was beside herself with grief, with her husband gone off to war in Afghanistan, maybe to never return, and her family having a fatal buggy accident with the sole survivor being her brother. She wondered if God was there at all.
But thankfully we have a God that loves to strut His stuff and he proves to this young, married Amish girl and the entire local Amish community that He is indeed a God of miracles and this story proves to be no different. After Naomi's brother returns home from the hospital after the accident he is certainly not himself. The buggy accident left him in a catatonic state, so Naomi and Rebecca take to caring for him. If that wasn't enough Micah returns from the war ready to begin his life again, but the Bishop and the ministers have other plans.
This is the first time I have read a book by Murray Pura and I have to say he is an excellent writer. I read the whole book cover to cover and I found myself in tears and happy, with shouts of victory. This is the perfect book to read during the holidays or anytime.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Harvest House.
After tragedy strikes the family of young Naomi Miller, her friend Rebecca Bachman does all she can to help. But things get complicated when Rebecca's brother, Micah, returns from a combat tour in Afghanistan. For one thing, he chose to serve in the military even though he served as a medic and never picked up a gun. For another, he is under the Meidung--the shunning-- because of that and none of the Amish are permitted to speak to him or eat with him. And finally, he is not only Rebecca's brother, he is Naomi's husband! But how can Naomi pick up where their marriage left off after he turned away from her and his people to enlist in the army? How can Naomi and Micah even begin the process of healing their relationship when he will not repent of what he has done and the Amish will not forgive him for what he has done?
Naomi despairs of ever again having a happy married life with her husband. But God has a way of working on the hearts of His people--especially at Christmas time. When an unexpected turn of events sets things right, miracles happen to the Amish community, to the Miller family, and to Naomi and Micah, miracles that transform everyone. Here is warm and tender story of faithfulness, love, and reconciliation at the most wonderful time of the year.
About the Author:
Murray Pura was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, just north of the Dakotas and Minnesota. His first novel was released in Toronto in 1988 and was a finalist for the Dartmouth Book Award. Since that time he has published ten more novels, two collections of short stories, and several nonfiction titles including the Zondervan books Rooted and Streams and the Baker devotional Majestic & Wild. He has been a finalist for several awards in the US and Canada and in 2012 won the Word Award of Toronto for Best Historical Novel.
Murray lives and writes in southwestern Alberta and is currently published by Barbour, Baker, Harper One, Zondervan, and Harvest House - he works with publishers in Canada, America, the UK, and Holland. His releases for 2013 include the novels: Ashton Park, The Rose of Lancaster County, A Road Called Love, Seven Oaks, The Painted Sky, Whispers of a New Dawn, Beneath the Dover Sky, The Name of the Hawk, and An Amish Family Christmas. His diverse writing spans many genres including: historical fiction, contemporary fiction, literary fiction, romance, adventure, western, suspense, fantasy, Amish, and inspirational. Most of his work is available in ebook format for Kindle, Kobo, and Nook as well as in paperback.
My Review:
It is all Naomi could just to stand upright much less be kind and forgiving to the Lord for what she felt like He allowed to happen. But her faithful friend, Rebecca, was right by her side to help her pick up the pieces and sort it all out. But it is no wonder this poor girl was beside herself with grief, with her husband gone off to war in Afghanistan, maybe to never return, and her family having a fatal buggy accident with the sole survivor being her brother. She wondered if God was there at all.
But thankfully we have a God that loves to strut His stuff and he proves to this young, married Amish girl and the entire local Amish community that He is indeed a God of miracles and this story proves to be no different. After Naomi's brother returns home from the hospital after the accident he is certainly not himself. The buggy accident left him in a catatonic state, so Naomi and Rebecca take to caring for him. If that wasn't enough Micah returns from the war ready to begin his life again, but the Bishop and the ministers have other plans.
This is the first time I have read a book by Murray Pura and I have to say he is an excellent writer. I read the whole book cover to cover and I found myself in tears and happy, with shouts of victory. This is the perfect book to read during the holidays or anytime.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Harvest House.
October 29, 2013
After tragedy strikes the family of young Naomi Miller, her friend Rebecca Bachman does all she can to help. But things get complicated when Rebecca's brother, Micah, returns from a combat tour in Afghanistan. For one thing, he chose to serve in the military even though he served as a medic and never picked up a gun. For another, he is under the Meidung--the shunning-- because of that and none of the Amish are permitted to speak to him or eat with him. And finally, he is not only Rebecca's brother, he is Naomi's husband! But how can Naomi pick up where their marriage left off after he turned away from her and his people to enlist in the army? How can Naomi and Micah even begin the process of healing their relationship when he will not repent of what he has done and the Amish will not forgive him for what he has done? Naomi despairs of ever again having a happy married life with her husband.
But God has a way of working on the hearts of His people--especially at Christmas time. When an unexpected turn of events sets things right, miracles happen to the Amish community, to the Miller family, and to Naomi and Micah, miracles that transform everyone.
Here is warm and tender story of faithfulness, love, and reconciliation at the most wonderful time of the year.
My Review:
Micah has done what he thought was right, but when you're Amish, that comes at a high price to pay. Choosing not to be a conscientious objector, Micah becomes a medic and joins the military in Afghanistan. But upon his return, his wife Naomi is not allowed to resume their married life because he is shunned. When it becomes clear that Naomi still loves Micah and desperately wants to be with him, it just broke my heart that the People were the cause of the division between two souls. I am a huge sucker for the story of lovers unable to be together, and this one was no different!
Pura brings the elements of Christmas, love that can't be changed by beliefs, and a beautiful story of faithfulness to life. While an incident in the story felt a little extreme in order to paint Micah in a good light, I will always love a good Christmas romance - especially when written by Pura! I would recommend this book to anyone, even if you're not fond of Amish fiction. This one is different and a perfect read for the upcoming holiday season!
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
But God has a way of working on the hearts of His people--especially at Christmas time. When an unexpected turn of events sets things right, miracles happen to the Amish community, to the Miller family, and to Naomi and Micah, miracles that transform everyone.
Here is warm and tender story of faithfulness, love, and reconciliation at the most wonderful time of the year.
My Review:
Micah has done what he thought was right, but when you're Amish, that comes at a high price to pay. Choosing not to be a conscientious objector, Micah becomes a medic and joins the military in Afghanistan. But upon his return, his wife Naomi is not allowed to resume their married life because he is shunned. When it becomes clear that Naomi still loves Micah and desperately wants to be with him, it just broke my heart that the People were the cause of the division between two souls. I am a huge sucker for the story of lovers unable to be together, and this one was no different!
Pura brings the elements of Christmas, love that can't be changed by beliefs, and a beautiful story of faithfulness to life. While an incident in the story felt a little extreme in order to paint Micah in a good light, I will always love a good Christmas romance - especially when written by Pura! I would recommend this book to anyone, even if you're not fond of Amish fiction. This one is different and a perfect read for the upcoming holiday season!
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2013
An Amish Family Christmas” by Murray Pura is wunderbaar . I wish I could give it more than five stars.This book is a great book to read for entertainment but it is a book to make you really think. I have read it twice and it has made me think about my thoughts on several issues. And the money I spent to purchase this book was well spent. ( I added this in this review because I don’t like to spent more than a few dollars on a ebook, but since I really like Murray Pura’s books and he likes to give out copies of his books and I have won a few of his books, I decided to risk it and spend the money. I have to say again I was not disappointed.) This was the book for an online book discussion and I will say anyone that hasn’t read this book is really missing out on a book that really touches on what is a really heartfelt subject for all people rather Amish or English, or any race or Nation.
Naomi has just lost her parents and sister in a wreck caused by a drunk driver, and her brother Luke is in a catatonic stupor from head injuries. She is angry and confused and feels alone. Her sister-in-law is there to help her but at first Naomi want listen to her because even through she is married, she claims she has no husband. Why would she claim this? It is because Micah has joined the war and helped to save lives. The Amish do not believe in this this. Micah is shunned because he won’t repent and say he was wrong!
But Micah returns and does Naomi hold to the bishop’s rule of shunning or does she hold on to her wedding vows? This book is truly a book of love and forgiveness and honest soul searching!
But then a tragic happens to one of the community's own! And opinions are changed!
I just love the ending! I really wish real life was like fiction! But then again maybe I don’t because then fiction would not be able to teach us anything!
Naomi has just lost her parents and sister in a wreck caused by a drunk driver, and her brother Luke is in a catatonic stupor from head injuries. She is angry and confused and feels alone. Her sister-in-law is there to help her but at first Naomi want listen to her because even through she is married, she claims she has no husband. Why would she claim this? It is because Micah has joined the war and helped to save lives. The Amish do not believe in this this. Micah is shunned because he won’t repent and say he was wrong!
But Micah returns and does Naomi hold to the bishop’s rule of shunning or does she hold on to her wedding vows? This book is truly a book of love and forgiveness and honest soul searching!
But then a tragic happens to one of the community's own! And opinions are changed!
I just love the ending! I really wish real life was like fiction! But then again maybe I don’t because then fiction would not be able to teach us anything!
November 25, 2018
This is a three-cry book. Get out the tissue and don't even try reading this before bed.
An Amish Family Christmas is only 144 pages, but it goes way beyond a typical novella. This is packed as full as a novel, and certainly not your average Amish story.
Naomi Miller has lost nearly everything. Her parent's buggy was hit by an automobile, killing them along with her sister, and leaving her brother alive but just this side of catatonic. On top of that, her husband Micah left a year ago to serve in Afghanistan as a medic which, by the way, is against Amish rules. They have nothing to do with the military, and making this decision has broken the Ordnung, which means he is shunned.
Naomi's brother Luke is being returned home from the hospital, still unable to care for himself. She's decided to live at their parent's farm in the event he recovers to any degree and needs the familiar surroundings. Rebecca, Micah's sister, has chosen to live with Naomi to help care for Luke.
Micah returns from his tour of duty to find his community has shunned him. Although he can live under the same roof as his wife Naomi, his sister and his brother-in-law, he's not allowed to share a room with his wife, he's not allowed to talk to or touch any of them, and if he eats meals in the house, he must take the meal to another room. Only repentance of his disobedience to the Ordnung will bring him back into fellowship with the church. Micah believed God directed him to help save lives in Afghanistan and refuses to repent of that decision.
How can they all live this way?
By prayer, and faith that God can work it out.
This was such a moving little book. Like I said, not a typical Amish book at all. Lives were changed in an unusual way as the wills and hearts of the people were affected by God. Lots of scripture shared for wisdom and lots of prayer.
Sweet book.
An Amish Family Christmas is only 144 pages, but it goes way beyond a typical novella. This is packed as full as a novel, and certainly not your average Amish story.
Naomi Miller has lost nearly everything. Her parent's buggy was hit by an automobile, killing them along with her sister, and leaving her brother alive but just this side of catatonic. On top of that, her husband Micah left a year ago to serve in Afghanistan as a medic which, by the way, is against Amish rules. They have nothing to do with the military, and making this decision has broken the Ordnung, which means he is shunned.
Naomi's brother Luke is being returned home from the hospital, still unable to care for himself. She's decided to live at their parent's farm in the event he recovers to any degree and needs the familiar surroundings. Rebecca, Micah's sister, has chosen to live with Naomi to help care for Luke.
Micah returns from his tour of duty to find his community has shunned him. Although he can live under the same roof as his wife Naomi, his sister and his brother-in-law, he's not allowed to share a room with his wife, he's not allowed to talk to or touch any of them, and if he eats meals in the house, he must take the meal to another room. Only repentance of his disobedience to the Ordnung will bring him back into fellowship with the church. Micah believed God directed him to help save lives in Afghanistan and refuses to repent of that decision.
How can they all live this way?
By prayer, and faith that God can work it out.
This was such a moving little book. Like I said, not a typical Amish book at all. Lives were changed in an unusual way as the wills and hearts of the people were affected by God. Lots of scripture shared for wisdom and lots of prayer.
Sweet book.
October 21, 2013
What a story. At first I was so mad at the predicament of this young couple I felt like going and kicking their minister’s butts. Who can resist living under the same roof with your beloved husband and not even talk to each other—I would go steer-crazy. But as the story went on I was amazed at the way author displayed God’s amazing work in that community. I don’t want to give out the juicy parts of it. But I will tell you this – there are stories – amazing heart- gripping stories where the ending is so quick and platonic or just not satisfying and completely ruins the whole read. This is not one of those stories. This is exactly opposite – at first it is very sad and sort of stuck but as the story moves towards the climax and Naomi’s temper start flaring the story gets juicy and the ending is a perfect cherry on top. Written by a man this book will surprise you with all the passion and emotion mixed in it. I thought it was only women that were romantics. Big surprise there!!!
Devoted Amish girl, former soldier doctor, stubborn ministers, and the unmoving Ordnag rules.. and a God – the artist of the impossible.
Even if you never read an Amish book I believe you will be taken with this one. Buy! Read! Enjoy!!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Harvest House Publisher, thought NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion.
Devoted Amish girl, former soldier doctor, stubborn ministers, and the unmoving Ordnag rules.. and a God – the artist of the impossible.
Even if you never read an Amish book I believe you will be taken with this one. Buy! Read! Enjoy!!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Harvest House Publisher, thought NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 5, 2014
A Story To Touch Your Heart!
This was such a heartwarming story. I was tearing up after a few pages in. Toward the end, more tears!
Can an Amish man, such as Micah Bachman, go to war and come back to his community unchanged? Surely he will be under the bann if he does so. Should he follow God or the Ordnung? If he follows God is he ready to walk away from the Amish life?
What about Micah’s wife Naomi? How has his choices affected her? Can she ever forgive Micah?
This story is such an emotional one. When hearts are hardened, can they be changed? Will division or forgiveness be extended? After all, the Ordnung is the Amish way isn’t it? God certainly would not put his hand of approval on Micah’s choice, would He?
For those who have not read this novella, I urge you to do so. I think we can take away a strong message from this book. Obedience to God, love, faith, and forgiveness, can win out if we open our hearts!
This was such a heartwarming story. I was tearing up after a few pages in. Toward the end, more tears!
Can an Amish man, such as Micah Bachman, go to war and come back to his community unchanged? Surely he will be under the bann if he does so. Should he follow God or the Ordnung? If he follows God is he ready to walk away from the Amish life?
What about Micah’s wife Naomi? How has his choices affected her? Can she ever forgive Micah?
This story is such an emotional one. When hearts are hardened, can they be changed? Will division or forgiveness be extended? After all, the Ordnung is the Amish way isn’t it? God certainly would not put his hand of approval on Micah’s choice, would He?
For those who have not read this novella, I urge you to do so. I think we can take away a strong message from this book. Obedience to God, love, faith, and forgiveness, can win out if we open our hearts!
May 27, 2016
This interesting novella takes place in a small Old Order Amish community. Pura often has his characters in a "twist" for the Amish communities. And this one is no exception.
Probably we've all heard of the pacifist position of the people. Turn the other cheek, do not resist, do not bear arms, and so on. So can you imagine an Amish man intentionally enlisting in the US Army to go to Afghanistan? He was shunned! His wife has weathered the situation while he was gone. Embarrassed, forced to go to her parents home, dealing with the loss of her parents and sister in an accident that left her brother catatonic. The husband has returned. Now what?
Probably we've all heard of the pacifist position of the people. Turn the other cheek, do not resist, do not bear arms, and so on. So can you imagine an Amish man intentionally enlisting in the US Army to go to Afghanistan? He was shunned! His wife has weathered the situation while he was gone. Embarrassed, forced to go to her parents home, dealing with the loss of her parents and sister in an accident that left her brother catatonic. The husband has returned. Now what?
Read
December 30, 2015People are sometimes set in their ways, but God can change them. In this unusual Amish plot, the church has shunned Micah. Micah had done the unthinkable be joining the army as a medic. Can you imagine being married, living under the same roof, yet not being able to touch or speak to your spouse? Will the church split or decease over the change to accept the decision to lift The ban and chose Micah as the minister? Only God can change the people's mind, but will He? I enjoyed this unusual Amish plot. I was given a copy for an honest review.
January 8, 2014
"An Amish Family Christmas" is such an amazing book that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit! It sucked me in from the very beginning, and you don't want it to stop! While I could easily give a synopsis of what happens, I would rather say that it is a must-read, and will (re)affirm your faith in God & in other people! As they say in the Bible (and as Murray mentions in the book), "all things are possible with God"! Never lose your hope!
February 19, 2019
This may be a perfect fit for someone who wants something they can fit in a few hours that will leave them feeling warm and fuzzy. There isn't a saturation of Christmas iconography just because the word is included the title but it does have a bit of a Chrismas feel. The plot was too predictable and the resolution too easy, but it wasn't badly done. The writing style was too simple for my tastes and I was put off with the ways the German injections were handled.
January 7, 2014
A wonderful Amish Christmas story! It's one of the unusual Amish novels that I have read because the character Micah joins the Army as a medic and serves in Afghanistan. Serving in the military is against the Amish belief. He comes home and is shunned. It was an emotional read and I highly recommend this book.
February 22, 2014
A sweet story about faith and the way God works even through unconventional means. There was a little bit of things falling into place way too neatly that I might have picked on in other books, but as Christian fiction, I guess it worked. This book was an eye-opener for me regarding Amish traditions.
* I received this book through Goodread's First Reads Giveaway
* I received this book through Goodread's First Reads Giveaway
December 12, 2013
I was captivated from the first paragraph .I felt as if I was right there with the characters because of the vivid descriptions used in the writing. I read this in one evening g because it was hard to put down. It's not a cliche romance story. Real struggles and feelings were explored and dealt with. I highly recommend this book.
May 4, 2016
I chose this book for a side book challenge I am doing--a book you can read in a day. It didn't say it had to be a great book.
There were no technical issues with this one, and the story was cookie cutter as you would expect. Someone stunned by disaster, someone shunned, someone almost dead, and after some heart-rending search, all is well. Nay, all is better than ever. The end.
There were no technical issues with this one, and the story was cookie cutter as you would expect. Someone stunned by disaster, someone shunned, someone almost dead, and after some heart-rending search, all is well. Nay, all is better than ever. The end.
December 3, 2015
This was a sweet read, with an interesting premise. The characters angst became repetitive as time drew on in the story, and the way the plot wrapped up was a little contrived. Three stars out of five- enjoyable story, but not one I'll pick up again.
November 3, 2013
Your going to have to read this book. So go ahead and buy it :) worth it.
July 29, 2014
Finished this in 2014
March 2, 2016
A short story. But, very good. The book held my interest.
January 12, 2018
Wow this book is amazing, don’t miss reading it! Micah Bachman left his Amish community and wife to follow God’s calling for his life, problem being that calling goes against everything he has been taught and that his community stand for. Micah know’s what the Ordnang says but he must follow his heart and God’s lead. After Micah finishes his tour in Afghanistan he comes home only to be shunned in his only home because of his decision to leave, now when his wife needs him the most after the tragic deaths of her parents and sister and her brother is seriously hurt he can’t be there for her.
Naomi Bachman loves her husband but how can she continue to live with a man she can not ever talk to?
This book holds everything you want in a great book suspense, love, and wonderful scripture. If you want a good cry this book is for you! If you want to learn and catch up on your scripture you can do it here. One of the reasons I love Amish Christian Fictian books is I always learn,and strengthen my scripture knowledge, Murray has done a wonderful job in this book please pick up a copy and read it you won’t be sorry.
God really can work miracles and when we believe all else is lost as long as we keep are faith it’s amazing the things God can show us.
Highly recommend
Naomi Bachman loves her husband but how can she continue to live with a man she can not ever talk to?
This book holds everything you want in a great book suspense, love, and wonderful scripture. If you want a good cry this book is for you! If you want to learn and catch up on your scripture you can do it here. One of the reasons I love Amish Christian Fictian books is I always learn,and strengthen my scripture knowledge, Murray has done a wonderful job in this book please pick up a copy and read it you won’t be sorry.
God really can work miracles and when we believe all else is lost as long as we keep are faith it’s amazing the things God can show us.
Highly recommend
January 16, 2018
Micah Bachman is not your typical Amish man. He has gone against the Ordnung when he feels called by God to help and heal those affected by war in Afghanistan where he served as a medic.
He left his wife Naomi and during that time she has suffered the tragic loss of her parents and sister in a buggy accident as well as the devastating injuries her brother Luke has suffered. Her sweet friend Rebecca, who also is Micah's sister is helping her in his absence.
When Micah returns he is placed under the bann due to his actions. Even under these conditions you can feel the love the couple has for each other as well as the family love from siblings Rebecca and Luke.
The bishop and ministers of the community decide what Micah's fate will be. They seek God's guidance and deal with the local Amish community memebers emotions as well.
I found this book thought provoking and refreshing as it covers issues generally not brought up in your typical Amish story. This community learns that Gods thoughts and ways are not necessarily our own and trusting God will bring peace. I also loved reading some of the Amish words and songs which I hadn't read before.
This sweet Amish novella will warm your heart for the holidays and remind you of God's love for us in all situations.
He left his wife Naomi and during that time she has suffered the tragic loss of her parents and sister in a buggy accident as well as the devastating injuries her brother Luke has suffered. Her sweet friend Rebecca, who also is Micah's sister is helping her in his absence.
When Micah returns he is placed under the bann due to his actions. Even under these conditions you can feel the love the couple has for each other as well as the family love from siblings Rebecca and Luke.
The bishop and ministers of the community decide what Micah's fate will be. They seek God's guidance and deal with the local Amish community memebers emotions as well.
I found this book thought provoking and refreshing as it covers issues generally not brought up in your typical Amish story. This community learns that Gods thoughts and ways are not necessarily our own and trusting God will bring peace. I also loved reading some of the Amish words and songs which I hadn't read before.
This sweet Amish novella will warm your heart for the holidays and remind you of God's love for us in all situations.
March 15, 2018
A tragic accident, most of her family is now gone. To have her husband return from the war, yet he is not, he went against the Amish way. The powerful dialog between him and the bishops of what Jesus did, was very moving. It moved Naomi and she now knew he was right. The bishops also knew, but they are hiding behind the ordnung. Heart filled story full of emotion,a yearning for love that doesn’t want to be denied. For him, he answered the call of God to go as a medic, to help the lives of hundreds. God is the arbitrator to solve, while the bishops demand is for him to repent. A story that doesn’t want to end in him being ban, to a life of silence. I love Murray’s books, the stories are strong, compelling one to read to the end. They are ones you take out again and again to read.
June 29, 2022
When Micah Bachman returns from being a medic in the Afghanistan War he is shunned by everyone, including his wife Naomi. The Amish frown on going to war whether one picks up a gun or not. However, letters received by Naomi from the many people that Micah had touched in his work as a medic begins a process of understanding for her but will they make a difference to the local Amish congregation? Perhaps it will take more than just prayer to make a difference. And, then the unthinkable happens and Micah rushes to save the life of a young Amish boy. Then there is much heated discussion about Micah and his worth to the community but will it change anything?
December 24, 2018
Amish Bann
An Amish man returns from a war he served in as a medic. He is given 3 days to repented or he will be placed under the Bann. His wife and family disagree but must obey it. As the story goes, it brought tears to my eyes and then happiness to my heart and a wish that I could have such faith. This is an amazing book.A wonderful Christmas read but also as a reading choice for anytime of the year. I would have rated this book higher if I could. Thank you Murray Pura for a fantastic book.
An Amish man returns from a war he served in as a medic. He is given 3 days to repented or he will be placed under the Bann. His wife and family disagree but must obey it. As the story goes, it brought tears to my eyes and then happiness to my heart and a wish that I could have such faith. This is an amazing book.A wonderful Christmas read but also as a reading choice for anytime of the year. I would have rated this book higher if I could. Thank you Murray Pura for a fantastic book.
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