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Valley of Choice #1
Accidentally Amish
Software creator Annie Friesen seeks refuge with an Amish family in the San Luis Valley. She’s fascinated by their culture, even more so when she discovers an ancestral link to the Amish and becomes attracted to cabinetmaker Rufus Beiler. How much is she willing to sacrifice to stay in his life forever?
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
194 people are currently reading
1514 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Newport
58 books626 followersHello!
I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.
We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us.
Here the adventure begins. When we meet someone new, we never know where it might lead.
I’ve been married over 40 years and have two adult kids and a son-in-law. We live in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where the day lilies in my back yard grow as tall as I am. (No short jokes, please.)
Not every piece of my life is pretty, though. Some days I want to throw out whole chunks. But I am living each day looking for the grace of God to me, in me, and through me. Having your companionship along the way will help uncover a lot of great stories.
I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.
We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us.
Here the adventure begins. When we meet someone new, we never know where it might lead.
I’ve been married over 40 years and have two adult kids and a son-in-law. We live in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where the day lilies in my back yard grow as tall as I am. (No short jokes, please.)
Not every piece of my life is pretty, though. Some days I want to throw out whole chunks. But I am living each day looking for the grace of God to me, in me, and through me. Having your companionship along the way will help uncover a lot of great stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
August 4, 2013
Annie Friesen is a 27 year old software developer who owns her own company. She no longer trusts her boyfriend, (who is also her lawyer), and while fleeing from him, stows away in the back of a pickup truck and ends up on an Amish farm, where she meets Rufus Beiler and his family. As she is trying to figure out a way to save her company, she finds a sense of peace and contentment as she is living among the Amish and getting to know Rufus and his family.
When she learns that she may share a common ancestor with the Beilers, she becomes interested in genealogy. She traces her family back to the 1700's. Interwoven with the present day story is the story of Jakob and Verona Beyeler, who are on a boat with their 5 children to settle in Pennsylvania.
I enjoyed this story, especially the chapters about her ancestors. I have read a lot of Amish fiction, but this is the first time I have read a story about them set in the 1700's, when the Amish were just beginning to settle in America. After reading this, I can understand why Pennsylvania has one of the largest populations of Amish. I also liked the way the character of Annie changed and grew in her faith in a believable way.
The ending was satisfying, and left me wanting more, but in a good way. There are 3 books in this series, and I have just started the next one, In Plain View. I know I will be anxious to read the third book also, but that one will not be released until February 2014.
When she learns that she may share a common ancestor with the Beilers, she becomes interested in genealogy. She traces her family back to the 1700's. Interwoven with the present day story is the story of Jakob and Verona Beyeler, who are on a boat with their 5 children to settle in Pennsylvania.
I enjoyed this story, especially the chapters about her ancestors. I have read a lot of Amish fiction, but this is the first time I have read a story about them set in the 1700's, when the Amish were just beginning to settle in America. After reading this, I can understand why Pennsylvania has one of the largest populations of Amish. I also liked the way the character of Annie changed and grew in her faith in a believable way.
The ending was satisfying, and left me wanting more, but in a good way. There are 3 books in this series, and I have just started the next one, In Plain View. I know I will be anxious to read the third book also, but that one will not be released until February 2014.
February 1, 2019
I enjoyed this book about a young woman who is having problems with her start-up company. Her partner and her lawyer are trying to steal the company away from her. She fears for her life. She runs away and ends up in the back of a truck headed to Amish country. Annie meets Rufus and his family and falls in love with him and his lifestyle. The part of the book that I enjoyed the most were chapters from the 1700's of distant relatives who settled in Pennsylvania. Their lifestyle had similarities to present day. The two generations had some of the same problems with the English vs. Amish lifestyle
November 19, 2012
Annie is a software creature and her product is in jeopardy of being stolen and if she is not careful her life could also be in danger. While trying to flee from harm she hides in the back of a truck which ends up in Amish country. She ends up in the barn owned by Rufus’s family. Even though they don’t know her Rufus and his family help her out. She is hiding out for a while and tries to keep her software and herself safe. At first Annie find the Amish way of like hard with the lack of electricity and other modern convinces but the more time she spends with them the more she starts to feel at home and to question where she is going in life. Rufus knows to keep his distance from the pretty English lady but he finds himself caring for her. Can these two over come their social differences and find love? Will Annie keep her software and herself safe?
I was not sure how I was going to like this book when I first read the description but it turned out to be a pretty good book.
What I liked: This book had a little of everything. Romance, Suspense, Amish and even Historical. I liked both Annie and Rufus as well at Rufus’s sister Ruth. There was also a interesting side story dealing with past relatives back in the 1700-1800 hundreds. I thought all the different angles of this story flowed pretty well together.
What I did not like: I thought the suspense part of the story was a little weak. I expected a little more suspense at the climax but there wasn’t much. I am also going to say the idea of someone like Annie turning Amish really does not seem likely. Of course it could happen but it seems quite unbelievable to me. As much as I liked the historical side of the story and it did fit okay into the whole storyline I kind of wish it has been a book itself. I liked the characters and wish we could have spent more time with them.
Over all this was a good book and I enjoyed it. I am interested to see where the 2nd book goes. This book is different them some I have read and think others will enjoy it as well it has something for everyone.
As I was writing this review I came across what the 2nd book is going to be about. It appears this is going to be a 3 part series on Annie and her struggle to turn Amish which makes this book more believable. Now I am really looking forward to the rest of the series!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/1...
I was not sure how I was going to like this book when I first read the description but it turned out to be a pretty good book.
What I liked: This book had a little of everything. Romance, Suspense, Amish and even Historical. I liked both Annie and Rufus as well at Rufus’s sister Ruth. There was also a interesting side story dealing with past relatives back in the 1700-1800 hundreds. I thought all the different angles of this story flowed pretty well together.
What I did not like: I thought the suspense part of the story was a little weak. I expected a little more suspense at the climax but there wasn’t much. I am also going to say the idea of someone like Annie turning Amish really does not seem likely. Of course it could happen but it seems quite unbelievable to me. As much as I liked the historical side of the story and it did fit okay into the whole storyline I kind of wish it has been a book itself. I liked the characters and wish we could have spent more time with them.
Over all this was a good book and I enjoyed it. I am interested to see where the 2nd book goes. This book is different them some I have read and think others will enjoy it as well it has something for everyone.
As I was writing this review I came across what the 2nd book is going to be about. It appears this is going to be a 3 part series on Annie and her struggle to turn Amish which makes this book more believable. Now I am really looking forward to the rest of the series!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/1...
January 9, 2013
I think it's no secret that I quite like Amish-related books. There's something about the simplicity and utter disconnect from the world that appeals to me. And if you remember, some time back, I reviewed the fustrating yet addictive book Temptation (link to review!). Well, this is like that - English and Amish.
But so different.
For one thing, Annie (Analise), meets Rush (the Amish guy) when she stows away while running from a terrible lawyer (yes, lawyers are THAT scary). After a few misunderstandings, he helps her, and somehow, they meet more often and often. The more she sees him, the more intrigued she is with the Amish lifestyle, and the more she starts to fall in love with him (Difference #1 - It's no instalove)
Intertwined with this plot, is Difference #2 - the subplot. Annie finds out that they're very distantly related (like, they had a common ancestor a few hundred years ago). So the book flashes between the now, and then, when the Amish first came.
And in both plots, the tension between the Amish and the English way of life was present. It actually led to me consider - how Christian is the Amish lifestyle?
Before you start firing bunches of angry comments at me, let me explain.
As I understand it (but correct me if I'm wrong. Like really, false premises will never give true conclusions), the Amish are apart because they believe that they're are "chosen race" (First Peter 2:9), and to avoid loving the world (1 John 2:5, James 4:4). But if I am right, we are also called to be the Salt and Light of the world. For what use is salt if it loses it taste? It is thrown out. How does separation let one be the salt of the world? It's like being a lamp hidden in under a bushel.
If anyone knows the answer, please comment. I'm really interested in this.
In addition, this book is a very good introduction to the Amish lifestyle. It explains why they don't adopt morden technology (well, they're reluctance to adopt technology is a better word). The comparison between Annie and Rufus's lives really drove home this point.
This book is definitely a series. But the cliffhanger isn't very terrible.
Definitely a must-read for fans of Amish fiction
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.
First posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
But so different.
For one thing, Annie (Analise), meets Rush (the Amish guy) when she stows away while running from a terrible lawyer (yes, lawyers are THAT scary). After a few misunderstandings, he helps her, and somehow, they meet more often and often. The more she sees him, the more intrigued she is with the Amish lifestyle, and the more she starts to fall in love with him (Difference #1 - It's no instalove)
Intertwined with this plot, is Difference #2 - the subplot. Annie finds out that they're very distantly related (like, they had a common ancestor a few hundred years ago). So the book flashes between the now, and then, when the Amish first came.
And in both plots, the tension between the Amish and the English way of life was present. It actually led to me consider - how Christian is the Amish lifestyle?
Before you start firing bunches of angry comments at me, let me explain.
As I understand it (but correct me if I'm wrong. Like really, false premises will never give true conclusions), the Amish are apart because they believe that they're are "chosen race" (First Peter 2:9), and to avoid loving the world (1 John 2:5, James 4:4). But if I am right, we are also called to be the Salt and Light of the world. For what use is salt if it loses it taste? It is thrown out. How does separation let one be the salt of the world? It's like being a lamp hidden in under a bushel.
If anyone knows the answer, please comment. I'm really interested in this.
In addition, this book is a very good introduction to the Amish lifestyle. It explains why they don't adopt morden technology (well, they're reluctance to adopt technology is a better word). The comparison between Annie and Rufus's lives really drove home this point.
This book is definitely a series. But the cliffhanger isn't very terrible.
Definitely a must-read for fans of Amish fiction
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.
First posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
November 18, 2012
One day I was on Netgalley, lurking for some new books to read when I saw Accidentally Amish. Now, here's something you may not know about me - I have a secret love for Amish Fiction! Every few months, I'll grab a few and read them like crazy! Well, when I saw that this one took place in Colorado's San Luis valley? I thought "Hey, a local Amish book?? I'm grabbing it!"
The book starts out a bit slow for my liking, although with the quick action you could claim otherwise! Annie is running from a work scandal (and her fiance - Rick- who may be at the core of this scandal), and she finds her way into the back of a truck which takes her to an Amish farm in Westcliffe Colorado. There she falls in love with the beautiful view of the Sangre De Cristo Mountain Range (my picture is posted here!) and she also grows curious about the Amish way of life.
Rufus, the Amish man who "rescued" Annie is also drawn to her, but knows that he is Amish to the core. He's a likable "hero" and has a fascinating journey as far as growing his business, which leads to a mystery all of it's own - and a hospital stay when he is attacked.
SPOILER ALERT!! This next paragraph has a possible (small) spoiler!
There are two things about this book that caused me to give it 3 stars instead of 4 or 5. The first being the amount of things that were left unanswered. What was Rick really up to? I felt like that was never really answered. Also - Was Karl Krammer behind the attack on Rufus?? I felt like I would have enjoyed this book more if there was more of a resolution for me.
END SPOILER!!
Also, I wasn't a huge fan of the Amish Tale from the 1700's added in. I get that Annie finding her relation to the Beiler family is important, but I found myself starting to skim this story, as it didn't really feel like my type of thing.
In the end, Accidentally Amish is a solid tale, of Annie finding who she is and falling in love with Rufus. The whole "Let Go and Let God" undertelling is definitely present.
The book starts out a bit slow for my liking, although with the quick action you could claim otherwise! Annie is running from a work scandal (and her fiance - Rick- who may be at the core of this scandal), and she finds her way into the back of a truck which takes her to an Amish farm in Westcliffe Colorado. There she falls in love with the beautiful view of the Sangre De Cristo Mountain Range (my picture is posted here!) and she also grows curious about the Amish way of life.
Rufus, the Amish man who "rescued" Annie is also drawn to her, but knows that he is Amish to the core. He's a likable "hero" and has a fascinating journey as far as growing his business, which leads to a mystery all of it's own - and a hospital stay when he is attacked.
SPOILER ALERT!! This next paragraph has a possible (small) spoiler!
There are two things about this book that caused me to give it 3 stars instead of 4 or 5. The first being the amount of things that were left unanswered. What was Rick really up to? I felt like that was never really answered. Also - Was Karl Krammer behind the attack on Rufus?? I felt like I would have enjoyed this book more if there was more of a resolution for me.
END SPOILER!!
Also, I wasn't a huge fan of the Amish Tale from the 1700's added in. I get that Annie finding her relation to the Beiler family is important, but I found myself starting to skim this story, as it didn't really feel like my type of thing.
In the end, Accidentally Amish is a solid tale, of Annie finding who she is and falling in love with Rufus. The whole "Let Go and Let God" undertelling is definitely present.
July 3, 2016
Annie is running from the danger surrounding her company. By chance she lands in an Amish barn for the night. That chance encounter will change her life forever. Finding family history and perhaps a chance at love are just a few of the things that happen because of her ride into Amish country.
The characters were fun and the story was engaging. The book alternated between the current story and giving a little back story on the ancestors of the main characters. It lent an interesting twist to the story and provided information on some of the reasons the characters chose their path in life.
I enjoyed the story, but it wasn't one of my favorites. It intrigued me enough to look at the 2nd book when it comes out, but it certainly isn't gripping and high suspense. It also left quite a few questions unanswered.
I received this book free of charge from Goodreads in exchange for my honest review.
The characters were fun and the story was engaging. The book alternated between the current story and giving a little back story on the ancestors of the main characters. It lent an interesting twist to the story and provided information on some of the reasons the characters chose their path in life.
I enjoyed the story, but it wasn't one of my favorites. It intrigued me enough to look at the 2nd book when it comes out, but it certainly isn't gripping and high suspense. It also left quite a few questions unanswered.
I received this book free of charge from Goodreads in exchange for my honest review.
September 26, 2018
Accidentally Amish is a contemporary Amish read intermingled with a dual time period. When Annie Friesen found herself in Amish country with Beiler family she wanted to find her own family roots. Annie was a successful business woman escaping because of her partner and lawyer filing a law suit against her. There were parallel in the historical account of the Beyeler family coming to America on the Charming Nancy and settling in Pennsylvania as Annie and Ruth Beiler, Amish born, were struggling where they fit in. The story is continued in book two, In Plain View. It will be interesting to see how the author continues the story with Annie, Ruth, Rufus and the Beiler family. I’ve had this book sitting on my shelf for a while knowing it was a contemporary Amish story with an English heroine that didn’t draw me in like a lot of other Amish books blurb does.
February 12, 2022
Meet the Beiler/Byler family - from their immigration in the early 18th century in Pennsylvania to life in 21st century Colorado, this dual timeline story will keep your attention.
Anna is a wealthy tech company owner. She’s built two companies and is only in her late 20’s. There’s trouble, big trouble with her partners but she’ll figure it out. Rufus and his family left Pennsylvania for a better opportunity in Colorado but the Amish community is very small. His woodworking business is getting high praise but the local big contractor wants him gone; big trouble. A bizarre turn of events brings Anna and Rufus together.
Jakob and Verona along with their 4 children survived the crossing to America; many families did not arrive complete, loosing precious members to illness during the long voyage. Shortly after setting up for their first winter, Verona delivers baby #5 but doesn’t survive long after. Without a mother, neither does the infant. Before she passed, Verona made Jakob promise he would love again but the Amish community in Pennsylvania is still very small, in fact, there’s not even a bishop. He has found a young woman 18 years his junior that’s godly and very much interested in him but not Amish. Jakob seeks the Lord’s guidance and marries Elizabeth. They have almost 40 years together and a life that straddles two worlds.
“Accidentally Amish” weaves the story of early Belier immigrants and contemporary Byler families looking for context. The story is a mix of mystery, adventure, history and love with history leading the way. Author, Olivia Newport, is gifted at historical fiction and I found myself wanting more of the 18th century family than the contemporary. Perhaps the 2 following books will give more of Jakob’s children.
Newport crafts deep characters that are highly nuanced. It takes a while for them to develop but you will know them well and care about them. Her prose is delightful, rich in detail without being overbearing. My one issue with this story was the number of scene changes, (too many) and length of them, (too short), making the entire reading experience feel jerky at times. On the other hand, if you’re a short attention span type or only have limited time to devote to a book, this feature will be perfect for you.
Looking forward to the next book in this faith based series📚
Anna is a wealthy tech company owner. She’s built two companies and is only in her late 20’s. There’s trouble, big trouble with her partners but she’ll figure it out. Rufus and his family left Pennsylvania for a better opportunity in Colorado but the Amish community is very small. His woodworking business is getting high praise but the local big contractor wants him gone; big trouble. A bizarre turn of events brings Anna and Rufus together.
Jakob and Verona along with their 4 children survived the crossing to America; many families did not arrive complete, loosing precious members to illness during the long voyage. Shortly after setting up for their first winter, Verona delivers baby #5 but doesn’t survive long after. Without a mother, neither does the infant. Before she passed, Verona made Jakob promise he would love again but the Amish community in Pennsylvania is still very small, in fact, there’s not even a bishop. He has found a young woman 18 years his junior that’s godly and very much interested in him but not Amish. Jakob seeks the Lord’s guidance and marries Elizabeth. They have almost 40 years together and a life that straddles two worlds.
“Accidentally Amish” weaves the story of early Belier immigrants and contemporary Byler families looking for context. The story is a mix of mystery, adventure, history and love with history leading the way. Author, Olivia Newport, is gifted at historical fiction and I found myself wanting more of the 18th century family than the contemporary. Perhaps the 2 following books will give more of Jakob’s children.
Newport crafts deep characters that are highly nuanced. It takes a while for them to develop but you will know them well and care about them. Her prose is delightful, rich in detail without being overbearing. My one issue with this story was the number of scene changes, (too many) and length of them, (too short), making the entire reading experience feel jerky at times. On the other hand, if you’re a short attention span type or only have limited time to devote to a book, this feature will be perfect for you.
Looking forward to the next book in this faith based series📚
January 14, 2019
Title: Accidentally Amish
Author: Olivia Newport
Series: Valley of Choice, #1
Format: ebook
Length: 788 pages (iPhone)
Rating: 2.5 stars
Synopsis: Escape the helter-skelter of the modern culture and join software creator Annie Friesen, hiding at the home of an Amishman. With her high-tech career in jeopardy, Annie runs from fast-paced Colorado Springs—and straight into the hospitality of San Luis Valley’s Amish community. There she meets cabinetmaker Rufus Beiler, and the more time she spends with him, the more attracted she becomes. When Annie finds she shares a common ancestor with Rufus, she feels both cultures colliding within her. But is her love for Rufus strong enough for her to give up the only life she’s ever known?
Favourite character: Ruth
Least favourite character: N/A
Mini-review: This felt confusing, not gonna lie. It’s four stories combined into one and the only thing really holding it together is their family tree, one of the stories taking place in the 1700s, which made it feel a bit…I don’t really know what the word is, but longer than necessary, I suppose. Then there was the fourteen different ways of spelling Beiler. It was also very stilted in writing, kind of like like the British or a robot or a British robot. Except for “I’m” there were no contractions, which you could expect from the Amish, but it’s everywhere and everyone, from the Amish, to the English, to the descriptions. It was “do not” instead of “don’t.” Which is fine, but when there’s one on every page, you start to pick up on it. It just doesn’t feel natural. Despite all of those things, I enjoyed it. I will most likely be finishing the series.
Fan-cast:
Annie Friesen - Jennifer Lawrence
Rufus Beiler - Kendall Schmidt
Rick Stebbins - Alan Ritchison
Franey Beiler - Brooke Shields
Myra Friesen - Laura Dern
Lee Solano - Stanley Tucci
Ruth Beiler - Billie Lourd
Author: Olivia Newport
Series: Valley of Choice, #1
Format: ebook
Length: 788 pages (iPhone)
Rating: 2.5 stars
Synopsis: Escape the helter-skelter of the modern culture and join software creator Annie Friesen, hiding at the home of an Amishman. With her high-tech career in jeopardy, Annie runs from fast-paced Colorado Springs—and straight into the hospitality of San Luis Valley’s Amish community. There she meets cabinetmaker Rufus Beiler, and the more time she spends with him, the more attracted she becomes. When Annie finds she shares a common ancestor with Rufus, she feels both cultures colliding within her. But is her love for Rufus strong enough for her to give up the only life she’s ever known?
Favourite character: Ruth
Least favourite character: N/A
Mini-review: This felt confusing, not gonna lie. It’s four stories combined into one and the only thing really holding it together is their family tree, one of the stories taking place in the 1700s, which made it feel a bit…I don’t really know what the word is, but longer than necessary, I suppose. Then there was the fourteen different ways of spelling Beiler. It was also very stilted in writing, kind of like like the British or a robot or a British robot. Except for “I’m” there were no contractions, which you could expect from the Amish, but it’s everywhere and everyone, from the Amish, to the English, to the descriptions. It was “do not” instead of “don’t.” Which is fine, but when there’s one on every page, you start to pick up on it. It just doesn’t feel natural. Despite all of those things, I enjoyed it. I will most likely be finishing the series.
Fan-cast:
Annie Friesen - Jennifer Lawrence
Rufus Beiler - Kendall Schmidt
Rick Stebbins - Alan Ritchison
Franey Beiler - Brooke Shields
Myra Friesen - Laura Dern
Lee Solano - Stanley Tucci
Ruth Beiler - Billie Lourd
June 12, 2017
Three stars because it is a decently written novel. Not winning any national prizes, but this book clearly had a decent writer and/editor. Another pro for this book is that there was no "easy" conversion for our English heroine to Amish, which, especially for a romance novel, demonstrates considerable restraint!!! In fact, by the end of the book our heroine Annie has only just converted her house to all propane and electricity! And! It is not even clear if she and her Amish squeeze Rufus are officially courting!!! The book ends with a kiss, not a marriage! A sneaky way to work in a sequel? Probably. Negatives for the book (let me count the ways):
1. An entire useless side story about a common Amish ancestor our OTP share over one hundred years ago thinly sold to me as "back story." Pretty sure there are less boring ways of making your book 300 pages long.
2. The constant bring up and resolving minor conflicts (except I guess both our OTP characters not being Amish. Pretty big hurdle, I have to admit. ) She is being chased by an ex-lover out for her fortune! Her business partner has also betrayed her! But now she is falling in love with an Amish man! But she constantly screws up Amish traditions/beliefs! But she HAD to be mean to her former business partner! Her ex-lover is stalking her! She kissed Amish Rufus! She forced a meeting between Rufus and his estranged sister! Annie has a concussion! Rufus has a concussion!
3. Stop using concussions as a plot device!!!!!
4. Rufus's fixation on her hair. When is someone going to realize this is not chaste thoughts about a woman but rather fetishization?
5. When a 27 year old can't talk to anyone about her feelings. Like we're in high school playing yes/no/maybe
6. Point of the estranged sister side plot??? (Clearly also another possible sequel here.)
7. Violet-blue eyes. NO. I BID YOU GOOD DAY, SIR.
1. An entire useless side story about a common Amish ancestor our OTP share over one hundred years ago thinly sold to me as "back story." Pretty sure there are less boring ways of making your book 300 pages long.
2. The constant bring up and resolving minor conflicts (except I guess both our OTP characters not being Amish. Pretty big hurdle, I have to admit. ) She is being chased by an ex-lover out for her fortune! Her business partner has also betrayed her! But now she is falling in love with an Amish man! But she constantly screws up Amish traditions/beliefs! But she HAD to be mean to her former business partner! Her ex-lover is stalking her! She kissed Amish Rufus! She forced a meeting between Rufus and his estranged sister! Annie has a concussion! Rufus has a concussion!
3. Stop using concussions as a plot device!!!!!
4. Rufus's fixation on her hair. When is someone going to realize this is not chaste thoughts about a woman but rather fetishization?
5. When a 27 year old can't talk to anyone about her feelings. Like we're in high school playing yes/no/maybe
6. Point of the estranged sister side plot??? (Clearly also another possible sequel here.)
7. Violet-blue eyes. NO. I BID YOU GOOD DAY, SIR.
November 11, 2022
I never heard of this author before reading this book. Wow! I’m so impressed. I loved the history in this book. I can feel the hearts of the characters. It is not easily predictable. I checked it out and there really was a Charming Nancy ship that brought the Amish to America. Such a good story. My grandparents were Pennsylvania Dutch and I love the history of the people that fled to America for religious freedom.
I will definitely buy more books by this author.
I will definitely buy more books by this author.
October 6, 2012
Review: Accidentally Amish by Olivia Newport
4 STARS This book is a little bit different as it followed almost 3 storylines in one. I liked it even though I cried in parts. Thier was no sex scenes or swearing. Annie Friesen was scared of her lawyer and boyfriend. He tried to sneak extra papers for her to sign. He wanted to go to a meeting with her and she kept saying no. In fact she planned not to go but to leave town and go to where a rental car would be thier. But Rick followed her and when it was clear she was not going to the meeting kept calling her,texting her and was getting closer. She was figuring another way to get around him and parked in a hotel and threw the woods she could hear him shouting at her. She saw a truck in a different lot and it had a tarp she crawled in between the lumber and went where ever the truck was going. She heard a lot of the talking between the two men when they stopped. She snuck out when one men dropped off the other. Annie saw a barn it was night time and dark really dark. The horses made noises and when Rufus came to check found her. Annie told him she stowed away and asked where she was at. He told her she was close to small town and she could spend the night. He went and got her blankets and she slept in the straw. The next morning Annie was still thier when Rufus little brother and mother saw her so was invited in for breakfast. Annie with her cell phone could get the internet and she also got it on laptop but after a day she needed to plug in soon. She moved to the motel and stayed thier till a accident left her with concussion and hurt back. Rufus took her back to his family home. Annie was really attracked to Rufus and she loved the peace but she had a hard time with some of his beliefs of turning the other cheek. It Flashes back to when Rufus ancestors came to this country and some of the experiences they had. The choices they all made back then and how it affects the ones Annie faces now. The other story is Ruth and the choices she made to go to school to be a nurse. The story did not end with everything wrapped up. Would love to read more about Annie journey as she learns more about the Amish and want to know more about Ruth. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 10/01/2012 PUB Barbour Publishing, Inc.
4 STARS This book is a little bit different as it followed almost 3 storylines in one. I liked it even though I cried in parts. Thier was no sex scenes or swearing. Annie Friesen was scared of her lawyer and boyfriend. He tried to sneak extra papers for her to sign. He wanted to go to a meeting with her and she kept saying no. In fact she planned not to go but to leave town and go to where a rental car would be thier. But Rick followed her and when it was clear she was not going to the meeting kept calling her,texting her and was getting closer. She was figuring another way to get around him and parked in a hotel and threw the woods she could hear him shouting at her. She saw a truck in a different lot and it had a tarp she crawled in between the lumber and went where ever the truck was going. She heard a lot of the talking between the two men when they stopped. She snuck out when one men dropped off the other. Annie saw a barn it was night time and dark really dark. The horses made noises and when Rufus came to check found her. Annie told him she stowed away and asked where she was at. He told her she was close to small town and she could spend the night. He went and got her blankets and she slept in the straw. The next morning Annie was still thier when Rufus little brother and mother saw her so was invited in for breakfast. Annie with her cell phone could get the internet and she also got it on laptop but after a day she needed to plug in soon. She moved to the motel and stayed thier till a accident left her with concussion and hurt back. Rufus took her back to his family home. Annie was really attracked to Rufus and she loved the peace but she had a hard time with some of his beliefs of turning the other cheek. It Flashes back to when Rufus ancestors came to this country and some of the experiences they had. The choices they all made back then and how it affects the ones Annie faces now. The other story is Ruth and the choices she made to go to school to be a nurse. The story did not end with everything wrapped up. Would love to read more about Annie journey as she learns more about the Amish and want to know more about Ruth. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 10/01/2012 PUB Barbour Publishing, Inc.
March 9, 2014
Accidentally Amish isn’t a typical Amish book in that the main character, Annie Frieson, is not Amish. Also, this work is actually 2 parallel stories interwoven into one novel. In addition to the contemporary, romantic suspense of Annie, there is a second story about Annie’s ancestors, who came to America in 1737.
The main story, about Annie, takes the reader quickly on a chase as Annie flees from her former boyfriend and lawyer, whom she no longer trusts. Annie’s frightful flight from the city terminates in an Amish barn far from her hectic life as a software developer. There she meets the Beiler family as her world and her heart collide with the world of the Amish.
I enjoyed reading Accidentally Amish. I like the way the stories move right along. The characters are interesting and have unique personalities. I especially like the historical story about Jakob and Verona, who along with their five children, left Switzerland and came to American seeking religious freedom. The hardships they endured with resolution, for their faith, are difficult to imagine.
A common theme running through both stories is how to live your faith, stay true to your God and then accept the results of those decisions. The author did a great job in addressing this question.
I am not convinced that Annie’s decisions are totally realistic, so it will be interesting to see what happens in the book that follows.
The main story, about Annie, takes the reader quickly on a chase as Annie flees from her former boyfriend and lawyer, whom she no longer trusts. Annie’s frightful flight from the city terminates in an Amish barn far from her hectic life as a software developer. There she meets the Beiler family as her world and her heart collide with the world of the Amish.
I enjoyed reading Accidentally Amish. I like the way the stories move right along. The characters are interesting and have unique personalities. I especially like the historical story about Jakob and Verona, who along with their five children, left Switzerland and came to American seeking religious freedom. The hardships they endured with resolution, for their faith, are difficult to imagine.
A common theme running through both stories is how to live your faith, stay true to your God and then accept the results of those decisions. The author did a great job in addressing this question.
I am not convinced that Annie’s decisions are totally realistic, so it will be interesting to see what happens in the book that follows.
November 14, 2012
I have received this book for free in exchange for an honest review
This in no way affects my opinion
I loved this book!!
The characters are highly believable, and just completely pull you into the story.
Annie is a very well off, very professional person. However her life gets turned upside down when things start to go funny at work. Add that to the fact that she 'finds' herself in the back of a pickup - which takes her to Amish country and you have the start to a very interesting tale. Enter Rufus Beiler, a local Amish craftsman, and not only do you have a possible romance, but the recollection on Annies' part that there where Bylers in her family history. Combine all this and you have an enthralling tale. Then add a twist, and start doing flash backs to when the original Bylers came and settled in America from Switerland, and you really have a story like no other. This was a complete different story from many of the Amish based fiction I have read. It was wonderful and perfectly done.
I would LOVE a sequal, and would run out to buy it!!
Also, as an author note at the end, this story is based on actual history. The boat did sale, and the author distant ancestors did complete much the same journey.
Simply a book that can not be missed - even if you don't typically read Amish fiction.
July 6, 2013
This book goes back and forth between the 1700's and present day. Mystery, faith, lifestyle choices, religion,family relationships, and a sweet romance are all included. The two stories are tied together, and the book held my interest enough that I certainly plan to read the next two books in the series. However, the flashbacks didn't work well for me. Although the author had great reasons to tell both stories simultaneously, I would have liked to have read the older story, and then have it lead into the present day story. The characters were endearing, and the fact that there were some who wanted to leave the Amish way of life and some who were English but wanted to think about living a simpler life like the Amish and leaving most conveniences behind was fantastic, and the author did a fabulous job of helping you feel their emotions, their reasoning, etc. The other thing that bothered me a little bit is that it did not seem like any of the story lines came to a conclusion at all. The first book in a series will always have loose ends that will be continued in the books that follow, but this one leaves everything up in the air if you don't read the authors other books.
December 21, 2013
How I love a good Amish story! And this was a GOOD – a VERY GOOD – Amish story. On top of that I love a good genealogical based story – and this book fills that bill as well.
There is the driven 21st century woman. Smart. Successful. Determined. Generous. And wealthy by her own efforts before the age of 30. Enter someone who wants that wealth even though he certainly has not earned it. And who does not care one bit – not even a little teeny bit – who could be hurt as long as he obtains what he wants. If it destroys a life – so be it.
Enter a man of Amish faith who assists the woman and introduces her to a life that is a slower pace. As well as walking in the path of God’s grace and love. Add his loving family. A small town totally unlike the busy, even frantic city life.
As for the genealogy – turns out our 21st gal has roots going back to the Anabaptist era and lots of centuries.
Not only does this book handle the Amish world well, it also does more than just lip service to genealogy.
This book will go into my re-read stack. If you like either genre, don’t hesitate – READ NOW!
There is the driven 21st century woman. Smart. Successful. Determined. Generous. And wealthy by her own efforts before the age of 30. Enter someone who wants that wealth even though he certainly has not earned it. And who does not care one bit – not even a little teeny bit – who could be hurt as long as he obtains what he wants. If it destroys a life – so be it.
Enter a man of Amish faith who assists the woman and introduces her to a life that is a slower pace. As well as walking in the path of God’s grace and love. Add his loving family. A small town totally unlike the busy, even frantic city life.
As for the genealogy – turns out our 21st gal has roots going back to the Anabaptist era and lots of centuries.
Not only does this book handle the Amish world well, it also does more than just lip service to genealogy.
This book will go into my re-read stack. If you like either genre, don’t hesitate – READ NOW!
October 31, 2012
I like Amish books, I really do. I'll read anything really, and have read a lot of things along the spectrum; erotic, inspirational, amish, historical fiction, etc.
This novel seemed to just leave me hanging. The end really didn't have an ending, you were left wondering, well what happened to this person, that person, this situation, etc. I know there are going to be 2 more in the series (at least) so now I have to read those.
Just once I'd like to read a book that just wraps it all up. I don't have to wade through 3, 4, or 9 more books to find an ending.
SPOILER ALERT: I find it inconceivable that someone would give up all their money ( a LOT of money ) to live Amish when they don't even know if the person they care for will recipricate their feelings.
Overall, I basically finished the book because I always finish a book. I don't believe I will read the rest, and really don't look forward to them.
This novel seemed to just leave me hanging. The end really didn't have an ending, you were left wondering, well what happened to this person, that person, this situation, etc. I know there are going to be 2 more in the series (at least) so now I have to read those.
Just once I'd like to read a book that just wraps it all up. I don't have to wade through 3, 4, or 9 more books to find an ending.
SPOILER ALERT: I find it inconceivable that someone would give up all their money ( a LOT of money ) to live Amish when they don't even know if the person they care for will recipricate their feelings.
Overall, I basically finished the book because I always finish a book. I don't believe I will read the rest, and really don't look forward to them.
January 24, 2014
This book started out well with Annie, a highly successful entrepreneur in danger of losing her business to a sharp dealing lawyer/boyfriend, Rick. Somehow Rick has turned Annie's partner, Barrett, against her. Annie runs away from Rick, hides in a truck and meets an Amish man. Thus starts the tale of romance which isn't badly done, but too many questions are left unanswered...Why is Annie running away instead of just dealing with Rick legally? How did Rick manage to turn Barrett against Annie? It is suggested that Rick is a dangerous threat but we never know how this is so. Annie is 'spunky and gets what she wants" so why is she hiding from Rick? This is not consistent with her character. For an important character, Rick disappears suddenly from the story when Annie conveniently gets an offer to sell her business. All in all, a disappointing, rather annoying read.
May 18, 2013
This book started off good, as it held my interest with the touch of mystery when Annalise was running from Rick. As the story kept unfolding I found myself getting more and annoyed. It was unclear as to WHY she was running or WHY she wanted to protect herself, other then what was mentioned when it was said she needed to protect her buisness. I really had to push myself through this novel
I wanted to expand my genre of reading, and have always been fascinated with the Amish culture, but I should have chosen a different book
I wanted to expand my genre of reading, and have always been fascinated with the Amish culture, but I should have chosen a different book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2015
Loved the writing and the character development, but the ending was so scripted, it was a disappointment. Too many Amish romances are beginning to put unlikely couples (Amish and English) together, with the idea that the English will convert at the end of the story. As rare as that is, it does not seem like a fair representation in a story like this. Truthfully, it would be more satisfying if the character maintained his religious faith and found someone within his faith community to marry. But that doesn't sell books, does it...
January 9, 2013
This was a quick read, and fairly engaging. None of the characters stood out to me as particularly interesting. The corporate intrigue subplot was never resolved -- you never found out what the bad guys were up to, exactly, and that's unsatisfying. I like the overarching theme of choice, and there were some nice moments, but I won't seek out this series again intentionally.
October 1, 2014
Great story about what's truly important in life. I enjoyed how the author wrote two stories in one and how they came together in the end.
This is one of the better Amish fiction books that I've read. I plan to read more of Olivia Newport's work as I found her writing style to quite pleasing.
This is one of the better Amish fiction books that I've read. I plan to read more of Olivia Newport's work as I found her writing style to quite pleasing.
January 4, 2013
I loved it!
January 27, 2013
Fantastic. Loved it. Great story and romance.
October 11, 2014
Love love love this book!
November 11, 2019
Okay, so. Even though I read this as a joke, that doesn't mean I didn't want to give it a fighting chance. And tbh if I were into Amish guys, I'd probably have enjoyed this book a lot more. But sorry, as a Lancaster native, I can confidently say that the bowl-cuts and mustache-less beards just don't do anything for me.
Anyway, despite this book's absolutely ridiculous premise, the actual writing itself was pretty solid. I can appreciate that much. The rest of the book though....eh. I tried to suspend reality enough to accept that maybe there are some modern women out there who find being Amish a turn-on, and maybe there are "English" (eye roll) out there who would be legitimately willing to convert into the Amish community if given the chance. But for it all to happen this fast? This book seemingly took place in about the timespan of a month or so, and this girl goes from rich techie to wearing a bonnet by the end???? Come on. Also, Annie, you might have thought you were clever for ditching your Prius for a bike, but guess what, bikes are also against the Amish religion, so unless you remove the pedals and seat then I'm sorry but you won't be allowed to use that either.
More complaints: 1) the 1700s flashbacks were so boring and really slowed the story down. 2) Violet eyes??? No one has violet eyes!!! Stop! 3) Are we supposed to think it's cool that the two love-interests of the story end up being related??? Because that's not cool, it's just kind of icky. Since they're related so far back, I guess it's excusable but still...definitely not something I would find romantic if it happened to me. But maybe the fact that MC thinks it's so great is a hint that she's ready to be Amish? (low blow sorry) 4) Rufus is an asshole. He literally spends half the book putting Annie down and the whole time, no matter how unreasonable he is, she's all like "omg he's right!" Even when he's trying to tell her that she SHOULDN'T DEFEND HERSELF against someone who's harassing her??? Okay, sure dude. Maybe that's why you literally wind up in the hospital a few chapters later.
Anyway, the writing is what saved this book because in spite of how weird it was, it was actually readable. Would I recommend it? Maybe for a laugh, yeah.
Anyway, despite this book's absolutely ridiculous premise, the actual writing itself was pretty solid. I can appreciate that much. The rest of the book though....eh. I tried to suspend reality enough to accept that maybe there are some modern women out there who find being Amish a turn-on, and maybe there are "English" (eye roll) out there who would be legitimately willing to convert into the Amish community if given the chance. But for it all to happen this fast? This book seemingly took place in about the timespan of a month or so, and this girl goes from rich techie to wearing a bonnet by the end???? Come on. Also, Annie, you might have thought you were clever for ditching your Prius for a bike, but guess what, bikes are also against the Amish religion, so unless you remove the pedals and seat then I'm sorry but you won't be allowed to use that either.
More complaints: 1) the 1700s flashbacks were so boring and really slowed the story down. 2) Violet eyes??? No one has violet eyes!!! Stop! 3) Are we supposed to think it's cool that the two love-interests of the story end up being related??? Because that's not cool, it's just kind of icky. Since they're related so far back, I guess it's excusable but still...definitely not something I would find romantic if it happened to me. But maybe the fact that MC thinks it's so great is a hint that she's ready to be Amish? (low blow sorry) 4) Rufus is an asshole. He literally spends half the book putting Annie down and the whole time, no matter how unreasonable he is, she's all like "omg he's right!" Even when he's trying to tell her that she SHOULDN'T DEFEND HERSELF against someone who's harassing her??? Okay, sure dude. Maybe that's why you literally wind up in the hospital a few chapters later.
Anyway, the writing is what saved this book because in spite of how weird it was, it was actually readable. Would I recommend it? Maybe for a laugh, yeah.
September 7, 2025
Started a review but Goodreads hiccupped and it disappeared. Don’t have the energy to immediately start over to rewrite it so I’ll say the 5 star reviews I read here are mostly on target. It’s a good book!
One point, though, beyond the story itself and the Amish viewpoints embedded within it, is that this is yet another 1 of those books that is actually made up of 2 completely different books set in 2 completely different time periods with no characters or storyline in common. This is a contemporary authors’ trend employed for purposes that remain as clear as mud to me.
So, here are my thoughts about that for this particular book:
- Of the 48 chapters,32 tell a contemporary story of a techie wealthy woman and an Amish man, how they meet, what conflicts arise and are or aren’t resolved, how their relationship grows, stutters, reignites, and continues toward the onset of the 2nd book (of a 3 book series.)
- The remaining 16 chapters, which are interspersed among the contemporary ones, are about a Swiss/German Amish man and his family emigrating to and settling America in the late 1700s.
- Despite the Amish vs. everyone else themes and some romance and family dramas, these two tales never really complement or clarify or enhance each other. After the 5th interruption by a 1700s chapter both annoyed and distracted me from the longer “main” story, I stopped reading them but made note of each chapter number. After completing the 32 chapter book, I went back and read the 16 chapter book. Both were interesting in their own right, but neither was enhanced by the placement of fragments of the two books between the covers of the modern story.
I’ve decided in the future when I encounter a “2 books cohabitating in 1 ‘real’ book that has the title and consecutive chapter #s to define it”, I will read the ‘main’ book first and the ‘interrupter’ book separately. Can’t wait to see how that works out, staring with the 2nd book in this series when I find it.
One point, though, beyond the story itself and the Amish viewpoints embedded within it, is that this is yet another 1 of those books that is actually made up of 2 completely different books set in 2 completely different time periods with no characters or storyline in common. This is a contemporary authors’ trend employed for purposes that remain as clear as mud to me.
So, here are my thoughts about that for this particular book:
- Of the 48 chapters,32 tell a contemporary story of a techie wealthy woman and an Amish man, how they meet, what conflicts arise and are or aren’t resolved, how their relationship grows, stutters, reignites, and continues toward the onset of the 2nd book (of a 3 book series.)
- The remaining 16 chapters, which are interspersed among the contemporary ones, are about a Swiss/German Amish man and his family emigrating to and settling America in the late 1700s.
- Despite the Amish vs. everyone else themes and some romance and family dramas, these two tales never really complement or clarify or enhance each other. After the 5th interruption by a 1700s chapter both annoyed and distracted me from the longer “main” story, I stopped reading them but made note of each chapter number. After completing the 32 chapter book, I went back and read the 16 chapter book. Both were interesting in their own right, but neither was enhanced by the placement of fragments of the two books between the covers of the modern story.
I’ve decided in the future when I encounter a “2 books cohabitating in 1 ‘real’ book that has the title and consecutive chapter #s to define it”, I will read the ‘main’ book first and the ‘interrupter’ book separately. Can’t wait to see how that works out, staring with the 2nd book in this series when I find it.
April 20, 2022
Abandoned at chapter 16. The plot sounded interesting, but I couldn't get passed this smart, savvy, successful business woman (as she keeps telling us) literally running away and hiding. It makes absolutely no sense unless she felt she was in physical danger. Even then, she made it clear that money wasn't an issue. Hire a body guard and a team of lawyers. Her behavior was that of a kid who doesn't want to deal with consequences of bad behavior, and is not at all consistent with who she's supposed to be. Which made everything feel very contrived.
Honestly, she just kind of irritated me. She finally decides to get a lawyer after she strands herself in the middle of nowhere, whines about not believing the lawyer available would be competent, and then is shocked and dismayed when he proves himself to be very competent. And how dumb do you have to be to not realize that some strange woman gifting a 12 year old kid with an expensive piece of equipment might be an issue for his parents?
The writing is okay but slow, so not terribly compelling. And I just didn't care very much for any of the characters. The side plot with the Beyelers of the 1700s was interesting initially, but it was too slow to hold my interest.
Honestly, she just kind of irritated me. She finally decides to get a lawyer after she strands herself in the middle of nowhere, whines about not believing the lawyer available would be competent, and then is shocked and dismayed when he proves himself to be very competent. And how dumb do you have to be to not realize that some strange woman gifting a 12 year old kid with an expensive piece of equipment might be an issue for his parents?
The writing is okay but slow, so not terribly compelling. And I just didn't care very much for any of the characters. The side plot with the Beyelers of the 1700s was interesting initially, but it was too slow to hold my interest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2019
Did I finish this book within hours. Yes. Yes I did. It’s not often that I find books where one of the main characters joins the Amish. Actually, I’ve been looking for more like that to read. Accidentally Amish by Olivia Newport was a book I knew I wouldn’t be able to put down when I came crossed it. Not only was Anne and Rufus’ story interesting the the intertwine of their ancestors story was as well. I loved getting to learn about their ancestors and how parts of the family took different roads in life. In fact it makes me want to try and dig into my own Switz ancestry again. I believe this was my first time reading Mrs. Newport and I have to say I’m very impressed. Accidentally Amish is full of interesting characters and a greatly written story. Considering there’s two more book in the Valley of Choice series, I’m really looking forward to reading about Anne’s journey and her new life.
If you haven’t already read this I highly recommend it. I’m hoping to find more books with this similar storyline.
If you haven’t already read this I highly recommend it. I’m hoping to find more books with this similar storyline.
June 22, 2021
Picked this up at a garage sale because I was intrigued by a stack of books they had labelled as "Amish fiction." While not hers, the lady at the sale said that her friend liked them because they were "clean love stories." And I agree with that assessment! Nothing fancy about the writing style, a pretty typical romance format, except that what was keeping the couple apart was their religion, which when one is Amish also means a huge lifestyle difference (especially when she writes software!). I liked that the story flashed back to when their ancestors (spoiler alert...they're actually related, 200 years back!) arrived from Switzerland to escape religious persecution. And there's a parallel in the stories, because the man's first wife days and he marries a non-Amish woman next.
The plot line with the local home builder targeting the Amish carpenter because he was a threat was a little far fetched, but they did needed it to create drama for the couple.
Will I read more Amish fiction? Only if I see it at a garage sale! ;-)
The plot line with the local home builder targeting the Amish carpenter because he was a threat was a little far fetched, but they did needed it to create drama for the couple.
Will I read more Amish fiction? Only if I see it at a garage sale! ;-)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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