Annie's Christmas Wish

Quilts of Lancaster County #4

by Barbara Cameron

Ever since her step-mom brought her a snow globe of the New York City skyline, Annie has wanted to visit the beautiful, big city. Since it’s nearing the time of Annie’s umschpringe — the time when Amish youth experience Englisch life to make a decision whether to live in that world or become baptized into the Amish faith—the family decides a visit is a good idea. They watch the Macy’s Christmas parade, admire the decorated store windows, skate at the Rockefeller Center rink and — Annie’s favorite — get a glimpse of a writer’s life while visiting the New York Times building. But others aren’t as thrilled with Annie’s lure to the Big Apple. Aaron has long been attracted to Annie and is sure he’s in love. As he watches her engage in big city life, he grows concerned that she won’t want to return to their quieter life. Will Annie follow Aaron back home? Or stay and pursue her dreams? Competing for her attention, Aaron sets out to show Annie that Christmas isn’t about the glitz and glamour, but about family, love, and the birth of Jesus.

Genres: Amish, Christmas, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction, Fiction, Holiday, Romance

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2013

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

CBD, CBA, and ECPA bestselling author of 24 books (including new series upcoming for Abingdon Press in 2011/2012) including fiction and non-fiction books for Abingdon Press, Thomas Nelson, Harlequin, and other publishers.

I sold three films to HBO/Cinemax and am the first winner of the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.

My two novellas won the 2nd and 3rd place in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest from the Faith, Love, and Hope chapter of RWA. Both were finalists for the novella category of the Carol Award of the American Christian Writers Award (ACFW).

Reviews

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie Bontrager's formerly Englisch stepmother was a well-known writer from New York City. On a return trip after becoming Amish and marrying Annie's father, she brought Annie a snow globe of the New York City skyline. Since her mother was chosen to receive an award for her writing the family planned a trip to New York City as a family vacation. Annie's brother was unable to join them, so Annie's long-time friend, Aaron was invited to take his place. Annie had been writing since could put pencil to paper, and this trip meant the world to her. She was finally going to see firsthand what a writer's world was all about. Throughout the trip Aaron became more attracted to Annie, more than just the friendly relationship they had always shared. As events over the course of the vacation concerned Aaron that Annie might decide to stay in New York City, tensions escalated. A learning experience for the entire family, this vacation was a crossroads for Annie. How would she react if she was offered a job there? Would she follow her dream to become a big city writer, or would her Amish roots beckon her home?

I thoroughly enjoyed Annie's Christmas Wish. I admire Barbara Cameron for taking a different approach in this Amish story. The Amish take vacations to various resorts and landmarks comparable to other families, and the Bontrager'sNew York City adventures were refreshing. Seeing city life through the eyes of the Amish was captivating. The simple way of life yet strong beliefs of the Amish were brought to life numerous times throughout this story of radical differences in culture. The author is well educated in the Amish way of life, and her descriptive talent is commendable. Her characters were very well defined and engaging, and the descriptive qualities of the landmarks of both theBontrager's farm and the bright lights of big city were illustrative and expressive. This book is far from just a Christmas story. I recommend reading it any time of year.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Abingdon Press and the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

[Rhonda Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Cameron has created a lovely picture of an Amish Christmas in Annie's Christmas Wish, Book #4 in her Quilts of Lancaster County series. The Amish place great value on family, love, and Jesus' birth and this is reflected in every aspect of this book. I have never been to New York either, so it was wonderful to view it through Annie's eyes. I actually felt as though I was actually there too. Seeing the attractions of New York through the eyes of an Amish young lady and her family was almost as good as going there myself. It made me want to visit New York!
Readers will delight in following Annie as she has now grown from a young girl who was unable to speak with ease to an articulate, attractive young woman. I loved seeing Jenny and all the rest of the family again too.

I received a free pdf version of this book from netgalley and the publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the premise for this book and like the characters, but I highly encourage the author to use beta readers. The 12 year old brother who has a significant place in the book came across as possibly a 6 year old. A good beta reader would have picked up on that. It really pulled me out of the story. Happy reading/listening!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: ANNIE’S CHRISTMAS WISH
Author: Barbara Cameron
Publisher: Abingdon Press
October 2013
ISBN: 978-1426733895
Genre: Amish / Christmas

Will New York City lure Annie away from her home…and the possibility of love?

Ever since her step-mom brought her a snow globe of the New York City skyline, Annie has wanted to visit the beautiful, big city. Since it’s nearing the time of Annie’s rumschpringe—the time when Amish youth experience English life to make a decision whether to live in that world or become baptized into the Amish faith—the family decides a visit is a good idea. They watch the Macy’s Christmas parade, admire the decorated store windows, skate at the Rockefeller Center rink and— Annie’s favorite—get a glimpse of a writer’s life while visiting the New York Times building. But others aren’t as thrilled with Annie’s lure to the Big Apple.

Aaron has long been attracted to Annie and is sure he’s in love. As he watches her engage in big city life, he grows concerned that she won’t want to return to their quieter life. Will Annie follow Aaron back home? Or stay and pursue her dreams? Competing for her attention, Aaron sets out to show Annie that Christmas isn’t about the glitz and glamour, but about family, love, and the birth of Jesus.

ANNIE’S CHRISTMAS WISH is the fourth book in Ms. Cameron’s Quilts of Lancaster County series, but it easily stands alone. Still, readers will want to read the other books in the series, specifically, A Time to Love as it’s about Annie’s Mamm, Jenny. Books two and three are A Time to Heal and A Time for Peace.

I enjoyed getting to know Annie as a grown-up, and really liked how Aaron noticed everything about her. Most quiet bookworms like Annie seem to go unnoticed, but he took note of everything about her, even how she observed others, as if studying them. That was impressive that he cared for her so much.

If you like Amish fiction, then ANNIE’S CHRISTMAS WISH is one you’ll want to pick up. Recommended. $14.99. 304 pages. 4 stars.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delightful Read!

It was so good to reunite with Jenny and Matthew Bontrager again. I don’t think I will ever tire of reading about their life together. They both are important to this story but Annie, their daughter, takes center stage.

Annie wants to visit New York City. The desire began when one year for Christmas her Mom, Jenny, gave her a snow globe of the skyscrapers. Watching the snow gently float down over the city fascinated her. How wonderful it would be to see where her Mom use to work and live before she converted to Amish.

Even though Jenny isn’t Annie’s biological mother, they share a close bond and a love of writing stories.

Aaron, a friend of Annie’s, has deep feelings for her but he knows she doesn’t share the same feelings he has. He knows that Annie is going on a visit to New York City and he jumps at the chance when he is asked to go along. He fears he will lose Annie to the big city.

This storyline captured me right from the beginning. I am a huge fan of author Barbara Cameron and I haven’t read a book of hers that I haven’t loved. She keeps us guessing right to the very end on some important issues in this book.

I had so much fun in New York City but wait, I didn’t leave my living room. Each scene described was alive and colorful. I love it when a book does this for me.

The lesson that I received from this book is, we can’t control every situation in life. We must trust God to know what is best.

I gave this book 5 stars, that’s how much I loved it. You could definitely read this book as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading the previous books in this series first, A Time to Love, A Time to Heal, and A Time for Peace.

I wish to thank Barbara Cameron and Abingdon Press for giving me a copy to read and review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

[DianFlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Christmas Time In The City...




In Annie's Christmas Wish, the reader visualizes the bustling city of New York through a vacationing Amish family's eyes...the diverse shops and restaurants, beautifully lit holiday decor, the Rockefeller Center skating rink, the Empire State Building, and plenty of glistening snow!




Ever since Annie was a child and received a snow globe of New York City from her stepmother, Jenny, she has dreamed of going there. Annie is filled with a vivid imagination and dreams of being a writer like her step-mom and wishes to visit the New York Times building. Jenny is to receive a prestigious award for her writing and the whole family goes with her to New York, accompanied by Annie's boyfriend, Aaron. Awed by the sights and sounds of a magical Christmas in New York, Annie's excitement is marred only by the fact that her father and Aaron are afraid she will stay in the city and no longer be content to live in her Amish community of Paradise. And then Annie receives two tempting offers that could forever change her destiny...which one will she accept?




Barbara Cameron is such a great storyteller that although I have never been to New York, I feel as though I have just visited there! Her descriptive imagery will finely tune all of your five senses and some tough issues such as a homeless, pregnant teenager, and the plight of the homeless in rescue missions were touched on--all with compassion and finesse. I feel as though her portrayal of the Amish was very realistic (although this sect didn't seem to be as strict as some) and her characters very endearing. So put another log on the fire, grab a cup of hot chocolate...and snuggle up with this magical, heartwarming holiday novel! It's Christmas time in the city!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I love that Barbara Cameron wrote a 4th book in the Quilts of Lancaster County, and it’s a Christmas book too! I really did enjoy the trip back to the little Amish community with the Bontrager family. And this time it is Annie, and her dream of writing and visiting New York, a dream she has had since her mom, Jenny brought her a snow globe back from New York when Annie was a little girl. But Annie’s beau Aaron does’t care of the idea because he is afraid of losing Annie to the Big city!

Following the Bontrager family to NYC was rather fun, and especially since they were an Amish family. But I like the fact that they are Amish, but since Jenny was a big name reporter in the Englisch world, the family is exposed to a lot of the Englisch ways. And it was so heartwarming that Matthew and Jenny has such a strong relationship that even the lights and sounds, and everything NYC has to offer, it doesn’t faze their relationship. All in all, this is a great story that I really enjoyed reading. If you enjoy Amish fiction, you will love this one. And don’t forget to check out the first three books in The Quilts of Lancaster County Series.

I received this book from the publisher Abingdon Press to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barbara Cameron (2013) ANNIE'S CHRISTMAS WISH (AUDIOBOOK)
Audible - Audible, Inc.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 out of 5 stars

Audible writes, "Ever since her step-mom brought her a snow globe of the New York City skyline, Annie has wanted to visit the beautiful, big city. Since it's nearing the time of Annie's rumschpringe - the time when Amish youth experience Englisch life to make a decision whether to live in that world or become baptized into the Amish faith - the family decides a visit is a good idea. They watch the Macy's Christmas parade, admire the decorated store windows, skate at the Rockefeller Center rink and - Annie's favorite - get a glimpse of a writer's life while visiting the New York Times building. But others aren't as thrilled with Annie's lure to the Big Apple. Aaron has long been attracted to Annie and is sure he's in love. As he watches her engage in big city life, he grows concerned that she won't want to return to their quieter life. Will Annie follow Aaron back home? Or stay and pursue her dreams? Competing for her attention, Aaron sets out to show Annie that Christmas isn't about the glitz and glamour, but about family, love, and the birth of Jesus."
=====
Could've quite happily have listened to this for a few more days tbh. Too short. Have read that many books or listened to any audiobooks which feature Amish characters. Only one I can think of off the top of my head is Jodi Picoult's Plain Truth actually.
=====
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[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

The fourth book in the Quilts of Lancaster County series is a well-written tale of life in the Amish community as well as a glimpse at what it is like for them when they step out of their comfort zone. Experiencing New York through the eyes of an Amish family helps the reader envision how different city life is from the Amish community. The reader gets the full experience of being in New York at Christmas-time with a look at Lincoln Center, a trip to the Central Park Zoo and ice skating in Central Park.

After losing her mother when she was very young, Annie has only known Jenny as a maternal figure. Jenny acts as a stepmother and mentor to Anne as she wants to become a successful writer just like Jenny. Both of their dreams are about to come true: They've been invited to New York to attend an award ceremony for Jenny and her friend for the work they did helping children in countries ravaged by war. Being in New York opens Annie's eyes to all the things out there for her to be and do. Sadly Aaron, who has recently gone from friend to more than a friend, fears he is going to lose Annie to the big city. After touring a TV studio and a newspaper, Annie is offered a writing internship and must choose between her love of writing and her love for a good man.

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth in the Quilths of Lancasther County Series by Barbara Cameron "Annie's Christmas Wish"
Annie has always wanted to go to New York every since her step mother bought her a snow globe when she was a little girl of the New York Skyline, she also wants to visit the city where her mother came from, worked, and lived. Annie's dream is too be a writer just like her step mom and she longs to experience some of the same things her mother did in this exciting city but will that come at to big of a cost? Aaron Annie's friend is a simple man and longs for a simple life with Annie by his side but he also knows that he can't take Annie away from the way she feels and he does not want too, he wants her just as she is he just hopes she will choose the simple life after she sees the city. Barbara Cameron will pull in and you will feel part of this wonderful family. I truly loved this whole series and I'm sure you will as well.

[Kayla · Rating 2 out of 5]

If Barbara Cameron was going for something completely different in Annie's Christmas Wish when she wrote the novel, she succeeded. However, the differences are not necessarily good.

Unlike in the first three books in the series, the story follows Annie Bontrager, which has its pros and cons. One major pro is that readers can see the woman the cutest Bontrager child becomes. On the other hand, the most important con is that it is harder to connect with Annie and her love interest, Aaron. Part of this has to do with the setting of the novel as well. Instead of taking place in Paradise, Pennsylvania, the Bontrager family (plus Aaron) travels to New York City. This overall gives the story a completely different feel from the rest of the Quilts of Lancaster County, and at times the pace of the plot is a bit rushed. (If you are looking for something positive, I can say with utter honesty that there are as many sweet, romantic moments as there are in the previous books.)

I have mixed feelings about Cameron's conclusion to this series. I do not believe it is necessary to read it in order to be satisfied by Jenny's happily ever after, but should you wish to find happy endings for all of the Bontragers, then Annie's Christmas Wish awaits you.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ever since Annie's mother gave her a snow globe of the New York skyline, this young Amish woman has wanted to visit New York City. Her English/Amish mother is being given a writing award in New York City, so most of the family will go with her along with Annie's boyfriend. Annie finds out that there is both good and bad to be found in NYC and also discovers what true love is along the way.

Easy, enjoyable read along with wonderful descriptions of NYC. Fun to see NYC at Christmas time through the eyes of an Amish family.

[Joy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Cameron never disappoints. Annie has always been fascinated by the snow globe from New York City that her stepmother gave her years ago. Her stepmother who was once a famous journalist is being honored at a dinner. Annie is thrilled that the whole family is going to visit New York. Will the pull of the Big Apple lure Annie who also wants to be a writer? What about her relationship with Aaron who desires for Annie to his wife?

[Linda Homishak · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars.
I love Christmas stories and I love Amish stories. I didn’t love this though. It was pretty far fetched. The biggest annoyance was the little brother. He was 9 or 10; the story, and the narrator, made it seem like he was around 5. Also, for all her prowess with words, Annie didn’t use them well with Aaron. I thought she treated him pretty badly. I would not recommend this book. I listened to this on audio.

[Kat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Amish novels are apparently just not my cup of tea.

[Missy · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars (Excellent)

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was very good

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not often you find a great Christmas novel with a compelling and lasting message regarding extended family, but I think Barbara Cameron has managed to do just that with Annie's Christmas Wish, book 4 in her Quilts of Lancaster County Series. This is perfect for those that enjoy Amish fiction or even a great contemporary romance because that is exactly the blend that Barbara has managed to create.

Annie Bontrager knows that she desires to become a writer at some point in her life. She carries around a notebook so that she can capture whatever thoughts or ideas come to her wherever she might be like all great writers do. She carries that inspiration from being around her step mother Jenny who was a famous newspaper reporter when she used to live in New York City. Jenny was raised English and thus was never really subject to the terms one usually finds in an Amish community. However when a bomb exploded while covering a story on children who were living in a war zone, she found comfort and love recovering in the Amish community of Paradise, Pennsylvania under her grandmother's care. It was there she discovered healing and love in the being reunited with David, Annie's father who was born Amish but decided not to join the church and in a way incorporated the love of both English and Amish upbringing in the children. Annie's mother died when she was just a child and had known no other mother but Jenny. To her, she was as real as a mother could be.

The family is on the brink of making a trip to New York City for vacation and Jenny hopes to show Annie not only the major tourist sites but also take her on a tour to her old office as well as to the New York Times, something Annie has only dreamed about doing for as long as she can remember. All she knows is that the desire to write is just as strong in her blood as it was for her mother and even though she knows at some point she might find love, she isn't the least bit interested right now.

Yet Aaron Beiler who has grown up with Annie as a close childhood friend has been making plans for what he believes will be his future with Annie working as a carpenter and furniture maker in town. Now if only he can convince Annie that his feelings go beyond that of just her friend and into something more. With the trip to New York coming up however, Aaron fears that Annie's love for writing might take her someplace she may never want to return. He just want's a wife that will take care of the home and any future children they might have and leave making a living up to him. What if Annie goes to New York and decides to never return? Is there anything he can do to change her mind?

I received Annie's Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron compliments of Abingdon Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are mind alone. This is such an incredible book and one of the few that really reach to the heart of what really makes a family even though in this case it is a blended one. Annie sees the relationship with Jenny as that of what a mother/daughter relationship is as well as one with Jenny as her friend as well. Jenny never tries to replace Annie's birth mother but gives her the room and the time to accept her as she is in her role as a mother and wife in their family. It also shows how difficult our choices can be when it comes to the true desires of our hearts, in this case with Annie's love of writing and how she will have to make a choice that will forever change the relationship in her family and possibly her community as well. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and think this makes the perfect Christmas addition to The Quilts of Lancaster County series!

[Narita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish fiction is one of my favorite reads, and I get especially excited when I see one like this that has a different story line. This is the perfect book for a comfy Christmas read (or anytime!).
Annie has always dreamed of being a writer, just like her stepmother. She lost her mother at a young age, and when her father remarried. Jenny, his new wife was a famous news correspondent in New York City before she married Annie’s dad and became Amish. The mother, daughter bond is as strong as if not stronger than any biological one.
Not only is Annie passionate about being Amish and being a writer, her other dream is to visit New York where her mother worked. Having been raised Amish she is very curious to know about Jenny’s life before coming to be a part of their family.
It looks like that dream is going to come true when Jenny receives an invitation to be honored for her past media work for children in worn torn countries. The whole family makes plans to attend, including Annie’s older and younger brother. Jenny shared many plans to show her family her old home before she joined the family: tourist sites, the television studio where she worked, the New York Times and more!
Annie was so focused on her writing career she never gave much thought to marriage and was shocked to realize Aaron Beiler was interested in her in that way. Her oldest brother is injured in an accident and the trip is almost canceled, but her grandmother saves the day by offering to stay with him. Aaron is invited to take his place. Annie sees it as an opportunity for them to get to know each other better. His fear that she might want to stay in New York ultimately causes tension between the two of them, possibly ending the romance.
The trip was everything Annie dreamed of and a few shocking surprises more. Opportunities arrive she could only dream of, but her heart is torn as to the right decision to make.
This story gave me those warm fuzzy feelings. The love and closeness being Annie’s parents and her family was so refreshing. The intimacy and understanding in Annie’s and Jenny’s interactions showed a bond every girl dreams of having with her mother. It was intriguing to see such a worldly place as New York through the eyes of the Amish, and also the experience of Jenny revisiting her old life after becoming Amish. I admired Jenny with how she was able to go back to her old life yet not be intimidated or feel out of place as an Amish woman. Being a part of their visits to tourist attractions was fun! It was especially meaningful to me the way Ms. Cameron brought so many biblical truths and applications into the character’s experiences. A must read! This is the first book of Ms. Cameron’s I have read but am definitely read the rest in this series!
I received this book free from Abingdon Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[April Baxley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barbara Cameron's Quilts of Lancaster County series is a delight from start to finish. I enjoyed the description of the Amish community and learned several new things about the people. All of the characters were portrayed in a realistic manner. It is nice to watch love grow slowly and over time. Matthew was a true testament of faith as was grandma in the series. I now find myself saying "It's arrogant to worry."

[LAWonder10 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a slightly unusual Amish story. It is published just in time to welcome the upcoming Holiday Season.

Unlike most Amish girls, Annie's main goal was not to be a wife and mother - although she would not discount that entirely - but her heart was set on becoming a writer. Now at age twenty-one, her goals were still the same. Would anything change them? She felt sure nothing would quell her desires - obsession- for writing. Luckily, her parents weren't a traditional Amish couple, so allowed, and even encouraged, her to develop this talent.

Her mother had been raised "Englisch" but had come to stay awhile with her Amish grandmother, years ago, and had grasped the Amish life whole-heartedly. Annie and her mother fit together so completely. This was a strange thing, due to circumstances.

Just before Christmas, her mother was to be honored for a very noble deed she initiated before she left New York City to live with her grandmother. To Annie, the thought of going wasn't to see the things most would want to see, but to visit the New York Times building and the television studio where her mother once worked. After giving it much thought, the mother and father decided to go, taking the whole family and turning it into a vacation - something that was extremely rare.

There were several unexpected and disappointing turn of events before their vacation could begin. There were even greater surprising events after the time their vacation was to begin!

Annie, along with other family members and a dear friend, experiences many new insights and increased awareness. This was a true season of celebration and change. Would Annie go to New York City and want to stay? If so, would she ever want to return to "plain" life? How else could Annie fulfill her dreams?,

The cover design is pleasant an immediately puts into one the feeling of the Holiday Season. I do like the effect of Annie's eyes above the title. It offers the added effect of joy and wonder. The colors are soft and pleasant. The cover has a very eye-catching effect.

There were a few typos and grammatical errors. The sentence structure was faulty in a few places throughout the story. The story, however, although slightly drawn out, was unique and brought out some very good points for thought and discussion. The characters involved were very solid and fun. It brought out the "human" side of some of the Amish yet still centered on their unique cultural ways.

Highlights: Romance, solid family relationships, acceptance, love, self-sacrifice, compromise, choices, adventure. It is written very chaste.

With my review of this book, I extend a Four Stars rating.

I was sent this book by a publisher for an honest review, of which I have given.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie's Christmas Wish: Quilts of Lancaster County by Barbara Cameron*****

In Annie's Christmas Wish we return to Jenny and Matthew Bontrager's family. Annie is now grown and is of an age to marry if she wishes. Aaron Beiler, her life-long good friend, has deep feelings for her but is unsure of her feelings for him. He is a regular at her home, often times sharing dinner with her and her family. He learns that Jenny and Matthew are planning a vacation trip to New York City and taking Annie and her brother with them. This concerns him greatly, he fears that once there she may want to stay and pursue her writing. When Annie's something happens preventing her brother from going on the planned trip, Aaron is asked to go in his place and he jumps at the chance to be near Annie during the trip. He hopes she will see him as something other than a friend.

Once in New York City, they are amazed at some to the sights there and at the same time their eyes are opened to a far different world than they live in. Annie is filled with excitement as she finally gets to see the place her mother Jenny used to live and work before she gave up that life to live in the Amish community and married her dad. Ever since Jenny had given her a snow globe with the New York City skyline, Annie has wanted to see it for herself. As they visit various places reporters and writers work, places her mother once worked at, Annie becomes even more excited. As days go by Aaron becomes more concerned about Annie and her possibly wanting to stay and not return home. This causes friction between them and as it gets closer to the time to return home, Aaron is heartsick over her possible decision. Will Annie return home only to pack up and leave again for New York City, leaving Aaron behind? Will Aaron let her go if that is what she wants, even though he wants to marry her?
And what plans does God have for Annie's future, for him?

There is so much woven throughout this story, close net family ties which shows their love for each other, friction between some of the characters and how they deal with it or not deal with it, important decisions to make, relying on God to guide them in those decisions and so much more. I enjoyed catching up on Jenny, Matthew and Annie's story.

~~I won a copy of this book from Whoppie Pie Book Club and the author for my honest opinion~~

[Kame · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie’s Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron
5 Stars
Annie loves to write and has been fascinated with New York City since her Mamm brought her snow globe back from there years ago. Her Mamm is being honored at a charity event and the family has planned a vacation trip to the city. Annie can not wait to take in all the sights and sounds of NYC. She has been so preoccupied with her interest in becoming a writer that she has not noticed her friend Aaron’s growing interest in something more than a friendship. Aaron thinks God has chosen Annie to be his wife, but he not sure Annie wants to live in Paradise. She is so fascinated with being a writer and NYC could she decide to leave their small Amish community?

I just love Barbara Cameron books, especially about Paradise. We first met Annie in book 1 as a small child with speech issue, and now she has grown to a lovely lady who wants to be a writer like her Mamm. Annie’s interests and open mind are wonderful, and at one point she tries to help someone in need with such a pure heart – it was a touching part of the book. She knows what she wants for a career and where she wants to live to make her happy. Aaron is a sensitive man who wants to make sure he makes the right choice for his wife. I enjoyed his interaction with Annie’s little brother, and I found his willingness to along with Annie to help someone in need heartwarming.

What I loved most about his book is the look at NYC at Christmas time. It was almost like seeing it through a child’s eye since most of the characters haven’t been to NYC before. Jenny was a fantastic tour guide and I enjoyed how she showed many parts of the city. I myself have visited NYC a few times and I could imagine some of the places mentioned in the book.

This is a wonderful Christmas time story that catches you up on the Matt and Jenny’s family. While I have read all books in the series I do not think it is imperative you read them before this book.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barbara Cameron is a wonderful storyteller that knows how to step outside the typical "Amish" box and provide a story with unique characters that certainly capture my attention from the beginning. With the fourth book in the Quilts of Lancaster series we get the story of Annie Botranger,who at the age of twenty-one is about to realize one of her dreams,seeing New York City. She isn't really in any hurry to get married like so many other Amish girls her age, instead she wants to become a writer and even plans on visiting the New York Times while she is in New York. Aaron Beiler is a friend of Annie's who knows that she is the perfect one for him, but he also knows that Annie doesn't feel the same way that he does. He is afraid that once she goes to New York that she might be lost to him forever. Will Annie find what she longs for in New York or will she realise what she wants is back home in Paradise, PA?

The descriptive writing with this story easily allowed me to imagine the setting of this story. I felt like I was seeing New York thru the eyes of the characters. Annie is different than most Amish female leads, she wants to become a writer like her stepmother Jenny, but also feels the strong pull of family. That's something that really stood out for me, the warmth and love that was easy to see with the Bontranger family. It was nice to see how Annie's parents got along, it was obvious that they truly loved each other. I thought the romance between Annie and Aaron was slow going, not one of the best that I have read. There are several messages that tie into the season with this one, such as faith, love and family. Overall, I enjoyed this book, and the author provides enough background information to make it easy to read this one as a stand alone, even though it's actually the fourth book in the Quilts of Lancaster Series. While I found the romance just ok, the characters, setting and positive messages made this story a winner for me!

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

How wonderful to read the continuing story of the Bontrager family! In this, the fourth book in the Quilts of Lancaster County series, we follow Annie and her family as they take a trip to New York City. Annie's Christmas Wish could be read as a stand alone book, however, I believe the reader would benefit greatly from reading the entire series. I have a real fondness for this series...A Time to Love, the first book in the series, was the very first Amish book I ever read! It introduced me to the Amish in a story that will forever be one of my favorites.

In Annie's Christmas Wish, Annie has grown into a delightful young woman. She loves her family and her Amish life, however, she would like to continue to grow her writing skills and perhaps find a way to put them to good use, as her stepmother does.

Aaron is in love with Annie and wishes to make her his wife. At first, Annie is totally taken by surprise by this shift in their relationship. She has only ever viewed Aaron as a friend. It is sweet to watch her feelings grow for him.

When the family and Aaron head for New York City to visit and support Annie's stepmother as she receives an award related to the work she has done (she wasn't always Amish), will the lure of the big city and opportunities that arise bring Annie and Aaron closer or put a rift in their developing relationship? Their relationship is still so new and miscommunications about Annie's hopes and desires threaten to bring the love that has begun to build between them crashing to the ground.

I recommend this book to fans of romance and of the Amish genre. I recommend the entire series, as well. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.

To read the review on my blog, visit http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had thought that A Time for Peace was going to be the last book in this series but I was wrong. In this book we see Annie as a young woman who wants to follow in Jenny’s footsteps and be a writer. She has wanted to go to New York City ever since her stepmom bought her a snow globe from there. Now with Jenny getting an award her dream is about to come true. But could her love for the big apple pull her away from her community?

I have really liked this series so far and was excited to see another book had been written.

What I liked: It was neat to see Matt and Jenny as older parents now. I also liked Annie. She does not quite fit the Amish mold with her love for writing and adventure yet she loves her family and community enough to stay rooted which made for a fun story. Aaron was an okay love interest. He was worried that Annie was going to want to stay in New York and not return home. Annie was not sure what she felt for Aaron so it was interesting to see how that part of the story played out.

What I did not like: As interesting as the love story was it was not that great. Aaron and Annie just did not seem to have a good spark between them and it just felt kind of lukewarm. I also found it a little unbelievable that they watched Christmas movies at the hotel. Vacation or not I would think that would have been heavily frowned upon no matter that Jenny had not always been Amish.

Over all this was an enjoyable book and more about Annie fulfilling a dream then it was about her finding love which is fine just a little disappointing. I strongly recommend this series. To better understand this book you really need to read the three books before it. Add them to your reading list today!

http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2013/1...

[Heidi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Annie’s Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron is the fourth book in the Quilts of Lancaster County series. It is the story of Annie Bontrager and her family as they plan and visit New York City.

Annie’s stepmother brought her home a snow globe of the New York City skyline when she was a small child. This fostered her desire to visit the big city. Annie gets a glimpse of the life of a writer, a job that her step-mother does, and a job that she would also like to have. She has a beau named Aaron Beiler. They have known each other for years and he has finally decided that he wants to pursue a relationship with Annie. Annie’s dilemma is whether she wants to go do an internship in New York City or whether she wants to pursue a relationship and eventual marriage to Aaron.

I must say, I was not as impressed with the story as other readers seemed to be. I found Annie to be a little wishy-washy on making a decision. I know that choosing to leave your family for a profession is a hard thing to do, but an internship isn’t forever and she could go back home. She seemed dead-set on being a writer, but she wasn’t really willing to go for it.

Her portrayal of Amish life and the reactions to the “Big City” seemed pretty accurate. I enjoyed the idea of the book, I just didn’t care for the characters.

Perhaps if I had read the other three books in the series, it would have made a difference, but I somehow don’t think so. I like reading Amish stories, but this one just didn’t appeal to me.

I received Annie's Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron for free from Abingdon Press and the Early Reader Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[My Book Addiction and More MBA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annie was dreaming of New York since the time her step mother brought her a NY snow globe. She was thrilled to find out Jenny her step mother was being honored for her work helping children. That meant the family would travel to New York. Jenny came into Annie’s life when Annie’s mother passed away. Jenny was like a true mother to her. They also both enjoy writing and have many things in common. Aaron was always a friend to Annie, but as they got older feelings started to arise and they both felt like there could be more to their friendship.

I was looking for a nice Christmas story to read, and I found one. The book was based in the Amish community. It had words used by the Amish, but they are very close to English and not hard to understand. It was also helpful that the author added a glossary at the end of the book. I enjoyed learning about the Amish community. The author tells us that the Amish young adults court (date) and then when they are about to be married then they notify the parents. Very different from how it is done in our society. A nice read about friendship and understanding, and ultimately love. I started with book 4 with no trouble. I would love to go back now and read the whole series.

Rating: 4

Heat Rating:Sweet

Reviewed By: Rae

Courtesy Of My Book Addiction And More

[Deby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab a cup of peppermint tea, snuggle under a comfy blanket, and prepare to be transported to Amish country for Christmastime in Annie’s Christmas Wish. This story is the fourth in the Quilts of Lancaster County series, but reads well by itself, with enough background knowledge that you will feel as though you know the Bontrager family pretty quickly. If you are looking for a novel that cuts through the production that has become Christmas, and gets to the heart of the season, this is the book for you.
Miss Cameron’s writing comes alive with the warmth and love of an Amish family that steps out of their everyday life, and travels to New York for a vacation before Christmas. Readers are taken around the city, experiencing everything through the eyes of a family that, for most members, have never seen anything like a big city Christmas. Annie, the title character, is easy to identify with as she struggles with juggling her dreams with the love she has for her family, and a possible future with a childhood friend, who might just be something more.
This novel left me feeling hopeful, warm, and thankful. It is a good, clean story about people who understand what is truly important, and it sets a good example that I wish to strive for.

[ChrisGA · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read with pleasure the first three books of the Quilts of Lancaster County series. I enjoyed meeting Jenny, the television news reporter who had traveled the world and Matthew,the Amish man who woos and wins her heart. This book picks up years later. Jenny and Matthew have become a happily married couple, and Jenny has become 100% Amish, raising the children while continuing to write books. Little Annie is now a twenty-one year old woman, still obsessed with writing and being courted by an Amish beau, Aaron.
A trip to New York City for Jenny to receive an honor for her books about child-victims of war-torn countries takes the family to a taste of the life Jenny left behind. They marvel at the glittering city life, the noise, the sights and excitement as they soak up what is to the Amish a foreign culture. They explore the glamorous life of the rich at a fundraiser banquet and the world of poverty experienced by the homeless at a soup kitchen. It is an eventful journey.
This was a sweet story of the Amish exposed to the outside world. It is also a nice love story as Annie tries to determine what plan God has for her life and with whom. I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway, but the opinions are my own.