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My Amish Boyfriend
Sixteen-year-old Shannon McNamara plans to get three things this summer--a driver's license, a job, and a tattoo--until a move to rural Ohio and a handsome Amish boy make her think twice.
Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fans another sweet story of worlds--and families--colliding, exploring themes important to teen girls through an engaging tale.
Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fans another sweet story of worlds--and families--colliding, exploring themes important to teen girls through an engaging tale.
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 4, 2014
38 people are currently reading
890 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
425 books3,296 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 23, 2014
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
This is a really sweet book to read. Shannon wasn’t expecting to like it when visiting her mom’s Amish family, but she finds out that there are good looking Amish boys! Even though this is a teen fiction I enjoyed the interaction between Shannon and the Amish family they were staying with. The characters here were realistic and believable, and the Amish household was it’s useful peaceful and quiet place. Melody Carlson is a gifted storyteller and tells an awesome story here in this book. And with the many twists and turns throughout the story, its difficult to put this sweet book down after you start reading. Mix and English and Amish family together, and you have and interesting story to follow!
And if you have teenagers, this is a wonderful book, and a wonderful series to have them read! I received this book from Revell 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
This is a really sweet book to read. Shannon wasn’t expecting to like it when visiting her mom’s Amish family, but she finds out that there are good looking Amish boys! Even though this is a teen fiction I enjoyed the interaction between Shannon and the Amish family they were staying with. The characters here were realistic and believable, and the Amish household was it’s useful peaceful and quiet place. Melody Carlson is a gifted storyteller and tells an awesome story here in this book. And with the many twists and turns throughout the story, its difficult to put this sweet book down after you start reading. Mix and English and Amish family together, and you have and interesting story to follow!
And if you have teenagers, this is a wonderful book, and a wonderful series to have them read! I received this book from Revell 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
February 18, 2021
Well, there goes a few hours of my life I'll never get back. I should have stopped reading it the first time I thought of it instead of toughing it out to the end.
November 7, 2025
Great book to pass time. i recommend hiding it while you read tho (a lot of people laughed at me)
October 7, 2016
Shannon McNamara had her entire summer planned out from start to finish. Though, that soon changed; she had to go reside in her grandparents home. The issue? She had never even met them before. Even though some obstacles in her life were problematic, she tried to get through each one. She went through these obstacles, by the help of her family. Even though she had to deal with these issues she got through them. This book was also about a boy who she ends up liking but does he really like her? Her cousin Rachel enjoys Shannon’s company until Shannon does something that will hurt her. She cries every night before she goes to bed. Later in the book Shannon takes her mother to the doctors and she has a MRI done and they finally figure out what’s wrong with her.
My book didn’t have many weaknesses but one was that the dialogue at some parts were confusing on who was talking. My book had a lot of strengths including the story seemed like it meant something to the author like this happened to her at some point in her life. Another strength this book was the mood the author did, if it was suppose to be a sad part she used certain words to show that mood.
I personally give this book a 5 rating because I like how the story flows and goes along swiftly. I like the characters description in this book too.
I think people who like Amish books and stories with twists and also direct at some points. I think people who also like books where the characters have to live a totally different lifestyle and try to work there way around certain obstacles would like this book.
Some other books Melody Carlson has wrote besides My Amish Boyfriend are The Jerk Magnet which is about a girl who has to deal with her father getting remarried and dealing with a new family and Double Take is about these two girls who look the same but are from two different lifestyles, like one lives in New York and the other is Amish and they switch lives for a few weeks.
The author’s writing is more teenage style and she makes it so all audience can understand how the story goes. She is also good at plots and having a problem and solving it by the end of the book.
My book didn’t have many weaknesses but one was that the dialogue at some parts were confusing on who was talking. My book had a lot of strengths including the story seemed like it meant something to the author like this happened to her at some point in her life. Another strength this book was the mood the author did, if it was suppose to be a sad part she used certain words to show that mood.
I personally give this book a 5 rating because I like how the story flows and goes along swiftly. I like the characters description in this book too.
I think people who like Amish books and stories with twists and also direct at some points. I think people who also like books where the characters have to live a totally different lifestyle and try to work there way around certain obstacles would like this book.
Some other books Melody Carlson has wrote besides My Amish Boyfriend are The Jerk Magnet which is about a girl who has to deal with her father getting remarried and dealing with a new family and Double Take is about these two girls who look the same but are from two different lifestyles, like one lives in New York and the other is Amish and they switch lives for a few weeks.
The author’s writing is more teenage style and she makes it so all audience can understand how the story goes. She is also good at plots and having a problem and solving it by the end of the book.
February 21, 2014
MY AMISH BOYFRIEND by Melody Carlson is an interesting Inspirational Amish Teen Fiction set in Amish country in Ohio. Meet sixteen - year old, Shannon McNamara as she and her mother move to Ohio in the Amish country. Her mother has fallen ill and so off they go to her relatives who can help them. Shannon meets a young Amish boy, Ezra, but is he what or who she really thinks he is or what she really wants in life?
"My Amish Boyfriend" is not just another Amish tale of a simple life but a tale of struggles, hardship, decisions, faith and so much more. This story has so much to offer not just teens, and young readers, but adults as well. It shows us so much and once again Ms. Carlson has written a story of faith, family, friendship, with spiritual truths and the struggles teens are faced with on a daily basis. It was interesting to watch as Shannon matures and grows not only in her faith, but in her desires also. A quick read! Well done, Ms. Carlson! Received for an honest review from the publisher.
*Coming in February from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group*
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: Sweet
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
"My Amish Boyfriend" is not just another Amish tale of a simple life but a tale of struggles, hardship, decisions, faith and so much more. This story has so much to offer not just teens, and young readers, but adults as well. It shows us so much and once again Ms. Carlson has written a story of faith, family, friendship, with spiritual truths and the struggles teens are faced with on a daily basis. It was interesting to watch as Shannon matures and grows not only in her faith, but in her desires also. A quick read! Well done, Ms. Carlson! Received for an honest review from the publisher.
*Coming in February from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group*
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: Sweet
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
September 12, 2014
I loved this book! It was written very well and had a very interesting plot. In the book Shannon and her mother go to visit her Amish family. While they are there during the summer, many events happen and cause Shannon to step back and put her faith in God, and what it means to be Amish.
October 10, 2025
There's too much Amish and not enough Boyfriend going on around these parts...
Jokes aside, this book is... not good. The Amish information is a nice touch, and Shannon's rite of passage story might assist younger readers into further understanding romantic love and learning the perspective of believing you are like the Amish and actually being Amish (which could be applicable to other scenarios), but it just feels kind of heavy handed. The resolution is sweet and all, but it felt rushed, like the author was about to hit a deadline.
Some people may find Shannon to be rather obnoxious, and I honestly agree with them. But she's 16, and a lot of teens around that age are rather shortsighted and immature. I'm surprised she actually was able to think "Dang man, I was infatuated with Ezra. I was never in love with him, just in love with the idea of love." That's not something you typically just realize around that age as far as I know (but considering what transpired before this revelation of hers, it's not as farfetched as it could be). I found Ezra to be far more obnoxious than Shannon, though.
People may say that the romance between Shannon and Ezra is unrealistic, but infatuation to this degree doesn't sound quite as unbelievable as I find it to be (crushes can be very much full-blown unreasonable at times), considering Shannon is still very much new to the whole idea of romantic love as far as we can tell. Certainly can't say the same for Ezra, who I found myself rather disgusted by at times throughout the story.
What I do find to be unrealistic is the whole romantic resolution between Ezra and Rachel. I personally don't see it working out very well post-story considering that Ezra was talking about how much he doesn't like to be Amish and how interested he was in becoming English, was willing to be shunned just to get away from Rachel, was behaving in a way that Rachel found to be undesirable which led to them breaking up in the first place, and was willing to have a short fling with Rachel's cousin, Shannon. A fling, in which, he may have been about to sexually assault Shannon at a party. They have no concrete chemistry portrayed in the story at all, and I can't help but feel like this was shoehorned in just to get some semblance of romantic satisfaction out of the story. I feel like Ezra needs to understand what he wants in life before getting back together with Rachel. As it was mentioned many times before in the book, you cannot be baptized and be Amish solely because you want to marry someone else who is Amish.
Shannon thinking that being told off by Ezra, a man she's met only about a week ago at this point, about how she's pretending to be Amish (true) rather than being Amish and that she doesn't know about being Amish as well as she thinks she does (also true) is worse than her father's death was kind of hilarious. I'll cut her some slack and chalk it up to potentially just being very much in the moment, but it feels very unbelievable and downright bizarre for there to be such a comparison.
That being said, the title My Amish Boyfriend is comically misleading considering that Ezra doesn't end up with Shannon (although that is 100% for the better for both of them). The story feels more like it's about Shannon's mother and Shannon herself than anything, casually tossing aside the romance aspect of the story through the second half of the book.
It's not a good book by any means, but I did enjoy reading it dramatically to my friends.
Would I recommend it though? No. Please don't read this book expecting it to be a seriously good experience. There's nothing of actual value to be gained here that couldn't be obtained anywhere else.
Jokes aside, this book is... not good. The Amish information is a nice touch, and Shannon's rite of passage story might assist younger readers into further understanding romantic love and learning the perspective of believing you are like the Amish and actually being Amish (which could be applicable to other scenarios), but it just feels kind of heavy handed. The resolution is sweet and all, but it felt rushed, like the author was about to hit a deadline.
Some people may find Shannon to be rather obnoxious, and I honestly agree with them. But she's 16, and a lot of teens around that age are rather shortsighted and immature. I'm surprised she actually was able to think "Dang man, I was infatuated with Ezra. I was never in love with him, just in love with the idea of love." That's not something you typically just realize around that age as far as I know (but considering what transpired before this revelation of hers, it's not as farfetched as it could be). I found Ezra to be far more obnoxious than Shannon, though.
People may say that the romance between Shannon and Ezra is unrealistic, but infatuation to this degree doesn't sound quite as unbelievable as I find it to be (crushes can be very much full-blown unreasonable at times), considering Shannon is still very much new to the whole idea of romantic love as far as we can tell. Certainly can't say the same for Ezra, who I found myself rather disgusted by at times throughout the story.
What I do find to be unrealistic is the whole romantic resolution between Ezra and Rachel. I personally don't see it working out very well post-story considering that Ezra was talking about how much he doesn't like to be Amish and how interested he was in becoming English, was willing to be shunned just to get away from Rachel, was behaving in a way that Rachel found to be undesirable which led to them breaking up in the first place, and was willing to have a short fling with Rachel's cousin, Shannon. A fling, in which, he may have been about to sexually assault Shannon at a party. They have no concrete chemistry portrayed in the story at all, and I can't help but feel like this was shoehorned in just to get some semblance of romantic satisfaction out of the story. I feel like Ezra needs to understand what he wants in life before getting back together with Rachel. As it was mentioned many times before in the book, you cannot be baptized and be Amish solely because you want to marry someone else who is Amish.
Shannon thinking that being told off by Ezra, a man she's met only about a week ago at this point, about how she's pretending to be Amish (true) rather than being Amish and that she doesn't know about being Amish as well as she thinks she does (also true) is worse than her father's death was kind of hilarious. I'll cut her some slack and chalk it up to potentially just being very much in the moment, but it feels very unbelievable and downright bizarre for there to be such a comparison.
That being said, the title My Amish Boyfriend is comically misleading considering that Ezra doesn't end up with Shannon (although that is 100% for the better for both of them). The story feels more like it's about Shannon's mother and Shannon herself than anything, casually tossing aside the romance aspect of the story through the second half of the book.
It's not a good book by any means, but I did enjoy reading it dramatically to my friends.
Would I recommend it though? No. Please don't read this book expecting it to be a seriously good experience. There's nothing of actual value to be gained here that couldn't be obtained anywhere else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2022
I grabbed this book at a library sale for $2 purely on the name of the author. I have read many books by this author. I did not know she wrote Amish as well. The attention she gives to detail and nuances are one of the many reasons I love her.
Shannon is preparing for the summer of her life. Then, her plans change due to her mother's illness. What happens next is a step back in time, a new life and a time to reflect on what is really important in life.
This book is a rites of passage if you will for Shannon. It tackles, image, crushes, God, and family. It's a young adult read but anyone can gain wisdom from its pages.
Shannon is preparing for the summer of her life. Then, her plans change due to her mother's illness. What happens next is a step back in time, a new life and a time to reflect on what is really important in life.
This book is a rites of passage if you will for Shannon. It tackles, image, crushes, God, and family. It's a young adult read but anyone can gain wisdom from its pages.
February 6, 2018
I just wanted to dig into YA again, after leaving my 8th grade classroom years ago. This is light, breezy, on the surface - summer romance, 16-year-old girl with too much responsibility. But I could put it in the hands of a girl who needs to think about people who do not live the way she does, and it could be an eye-opener. The main character lives with her previously unknown Amish relatives when her sick mother needs more care. Mildly religious, the book allows a glimpse into day to day routines and details.
February 28, 2025
I picked up this book as a bit of a gag, and then I kept reading it because I’m too stubborn to DNF. Learn from my mistakes. Don’t pick it up in the first place.
The writing itself if fairly bad, and the plot seems poorly thought out, but by far the worst part of this book is the main character, Shannon. She’s absolutely infuriating. To give you a taste, at one point, Ezra, her titular Amish boyfriend, tells her that she can’t hack it as an Amish girl, and Shannon just starts crying and says that his words broke her heart worse than HER DAD DYING. What the heck, Shannon? Insufferable.
The writing itself if fairly bad, and the plot seems poorly thought out, but by far the worst part of this book is the main character, Shannon. She’s absolutely infuriating. To give you a taste, at one point, Ezra, her titular Amish boyfriend, tells her that she can’t hack it as an Amish girl, and Shannon just starts crying and says that his words broke her heart worse than HER DAD DYING. What the heck, Shannon? Insufferable.
January 20, 2018
Shannon wants an escape this summer and she had big plans. However those plans go by the wayside when her and her sick mother go to stay with relatives she had no idea existed. Relatives that are Amish!
I didn't know what to expect exactly with this book, but I wasn't disappointed. I liked the fact that Shannon grew and changed during her Amish summer. I'm having to control my self from going into more detail, but I liked how she progressed throughout the story.
I didn't know what to expect exactly with this book, but I wasn't disappointed. I liked the fact that Shannon grew and changed during her Amish summer. I'm having to control my self from going into more detail, but I liked how she progressed throughout the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2021
I picked up this book randomly when I was checking in books at work, and I decided to read it because the title made me laugh and it’s a genre I’ve never read before. To my surprise, I actually kind of enjoyed this book. The title is misleading and I was anticipating a very Christian type of book with Shannon deciding to become Amish blahblahblah. To my delight, this didn’t happen, and Shannon found her own spirituality in her own way. Overall enjoyable and sweet read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2024
Ok, this book was definitely not one of my favorites. I struggled getting into it because it kind of felt like the introduction just went on and on. When she ended up in Amish Country, it felt like the story sped up to 100 mph. It all happened so fast and definitely didn't end up the way I wanted it to. Her mom got better, but there was no love story at the end which was kind of disappointing. Overall, I struggled reading this but it may be something you enjoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2018
I so wish this book had a better title and cover. This is a story of a young girl who, during a summer spent with Amish relatives, learns about herself and what she values. I liked how at the end of the book she was able to decide what was important to her, and she was true to herself in the choices she made.
September 12, 2022
Shannon’s summer plans are set aside when she is forced to take her mother and live with Amish relatives that she didn’t know she had. She thinks about joining the Amish and likes an Amish boy. She discovers that her life really isn’t with the Amish and tells the boy some real truths about his life. It does point out that that the silence of the Amish isn’t always helpful.
September 3, 2024
Excellent
Very well written and even more appropriate and accurate for everyday life. The lessons learnt by Shannon are lessons that we should all take to heart! Belief in God isn’t just skin deep it should influence every aspect of our lives! Waiting for the sequel!
Very well written and even more appropriate and accurate for everyday life. The lessons learnt by Shannon are lessons that we should all take to heart! Belief in God isn’t just skin deep it should influence every aspect of our lives! Waiting for the sequel!
October 31, 2017
Not a romance book. This is a book about relationships, forgiveness, and spirituality.
December 31, 2017
Eh, it didn't really grab me, and Shannon didn't make much sense half of the time. Not bad though.
January 3, 2019
Always refreshing. It is nice to read a wholesome book about the Amish
January 17, 2021
3 1/2 stars. I usually love Melody Carlson's books, but I don't think this was her best work.
April 30, 2024
I think I was too old for this one bc Shannon drove me bonkers :(
2.5 rounded up
2.5 rounded up
May 24, 2025
I appreciated the character development of Shannon in this book and the clearly researched information regarding the Amish lifestyle.
October 27, 2020
Shannon has 3 plans for this summer: get her drivers license, get a summer job, and get a butterfly tattoo. Her mom's health issues put those plans on hold though, and she finds them on a bus to go stay with her mom's family, who she not only didn't know existed, they also happen to be Amish. When her mom left as a teenager, she was shunned, and their welcome by the family has mixed feelings. Shannon gets the warmest reaction from the young Amish man who lives next door, Ezra. Even though she finds the simple life some of the hardest work she's ever done, maybe with the right incentive she could be persuaded to join the faith herself.
I personally found some of the characters in this book unbelievable. I don't personally know any Amish, but these ones seemed judgmental. I have read enough books that I know shunning is very serious, but that usually happens if they leave the faith after baptism and it doesn't sound like the mom ever was so she technically shouldn't be shunned. I suppose some communities might have stricter rules, but what the kids were getting away makes me think that's not the case here. I did enjoy the story and would recommend it still
I personally found some of the characters in this book unbelievable. I don't personally know any Amish, but these ones seemed judgmental. I have read enough books that I know shunning is very serious, but that usually happens if they leave the faith after baptism and it doesn't sound like the mom ever was so she technically shouldn't be shunned. I suppose some communities might have stricter rules, but what the kids were getting away makes me think that's not the case here. I did enjoy the story and would recommend it still
September 9, 2022
My Amish Boyfriend
By Melody Carlson
Publi: Revell c. 2014
Sixteen-year-old Shannon McNamara has her summer all planned as she heads home on the last day of school. She has 3 goals: get her driver’s license, get a summer job, and get a tattoo on her ankle.
When she steps into the hall where her apartment is located her summer plans explode. The neighbor who has been helping care for her sick mother Anna catches her before she can make it to her apartment. Anna and Mrs. Wimple have been talking that day and decided since Mrs. Wimple will be out of town for a while Shannon and her mother need to go to Anna’s parents in Ohio so Shannon will have someone to help her care for Anna. The tickets have been bought, transportation to the bus station has been arranged, and someone is lined up to pick them up at the bus station in Ohio to take them to Anna’s parents.
Shannon is first of all shocked that she has living relatives other than her mom. Her dad has died years before leaving just Anna and Shannon – or so she thought. When she arrives in Ohio not only is she shocked at the extent of family, but she is speechless to find out they are Amish. She finds out that her mom left her Amish family when she was 15 and hasn’t had any contact with them since.
Shortly after arriving Shannon meets Ezra Troyer. He is all the things she had dreamed of for the perfect boyfriend, except she never pictured herself with an Amish boyfriend. Shannon begins to dream about life as an Amish bride with Ezra by her side.
Because of the friction her non-Amish lifestyle and dress cause the family she begins to wear Amish-style clothes and to take part in the life of the family. She seeks to learn more about what the Amish believe and the lifestyle they live. This only causes her to dream more about life as an Amish bride.
Shannon’s mother continues to decline so Shannon arranges to take her to the doctor in Ohio. The exam and further tests reveal that Anna has a major health issue that needs immediate attention.
In the midst of Anna’s health crisis Shannon is forced to take a good look at her life and what she wants out of it. She faces her feelings about Ezra, about being Amish, about her family, and about her relationship with God.
This is a wonderful book about a young girl as she comes to grips with growing up. I highly recommend this book not only for young people but also for adults. It is eye-opening, honest, soul-searching, and thoroughly entertaining.
I was provided a copy of this book through The Book Club Network for my unbiased review.
By Melody Carlson
Publi: Revell c. 2014
Sixteen-year-old Shannon McNamara has her summer all planned as she heads home on the last day of school. She has 3 goals: get her driver’s license, get a summer job, and get a tattoo on her ankle.
When she steps into the hall where her apartment is located her summer plans explode. The neighbor who has been helping care for her sick mother Anna catches her before she can make it to her apartment. Anna and Mrs. Wimple have been talking that day and decided since Mrs. Wimple will be out of town for a while Shannon and her mother need to go to Anna’s parents in Ohio so Shannon will have someone to help her care for Anna. The tickets have been bought, transportation to the bus station has been arranged, and someone is lined up to pick them up at the bus station in Ohio to take them to Anna’s parents.
Shannon is first of all shocked that she has living relatives other than her mom. Her dad has died years before leaving just Anna and Shannon – or so she thought. When she arrives in Ohio not only is she shocked at the extent of family, but she is speechless to find out they are Amish. She finds out that her mom left her Amish family when she was 15 and hasn’t had any contact with them since.
Shortly after arriving Shannon meets Ezra Troyer. He is all the things she had dreamed of for the perfect boyfriend, except she never pictured herself with an Amish boyfriend. Shannon begins to dream about life as an Amish bride with Ezra by her side.
Because of the friction her non-Amish lifestyle and dress cause the family she begins to wear Amish-style clothes and to take part in the life of the family. She seeks to learn more about what the Amish believe and the lifestyle they live. This only causes her to dream more about life as an Amish bride.
Shannon’s mother continues to decline so Shannon arranges to take her to the doctor in Ohio. The exam and further tests reveal that Anna has a major health issue that needs immediate attention.
In the midst of Anna’s health crisis Shannon is forced to take a good look at her life and what she wants out of it. She faces her feelings about Ezra, about being Amish, about her family, and about her relationship with God.
This is a wonderful book about a young girl as she comes to grips with growing up. I highly recommend this book not only for young people but also for adults. It is eye-opening, honest, soul-searching, and thoroughly entertaining.
I was provided a copy of this book through The Book Club Network for my unbiased review.
February 13, 2014
About the Book:
Sixteen-year-old Shannon McNamara has exciting plans for the summer, and she can't wait to get to them. Unbeknownst to her, however, her widowed and ailing mother has plans of her own--to relocate them both to the heart of Amish country in Ohio where she has relatives who can look after her. Shannon quickly learns that living a "simple" life is actually a lot of hard work. But when a hot young Amish guy named Nate Troyer enters the picture, she's ready to get an Amish makeover and even consider making it a permanent change. But does Nate share her attraction? Will Shannon really make the jump into this new way of life? And will it be for the right reasons?
Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fans another sweet story of worlds--and families--colliding, exploring themes important to teen girls through an engaging tale.
About the Author:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than two hundred books, including the Life at Kingston High series, The Dating Games series, Double Take, and A Simple Song. She has received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. Melody and her husband live in Oregon. Find out more at www.melodycarlson.com.
My Review:
Shannon is a 16 year old girl with a plan for her summer vacation. She and her best friend Merenda discuss it on the last day of school as they ride home on the bus. First part of her plan is to get her drivers license and the second part is to get a job. But as soon as Shannon gets home that day from school it seems that her neighbor Mrs. Wimple lets her in on the "real" plan for her summer. Shannon and Mrs. Wimple have been caring for Shannon's ailing mother for sometime now. So the very kindly neighbor along with Shannon's mother Anna have devised a plan that involves Shannon and her mom to stay with family about 5 hours away in Hochstetler in Ohio.
Shannon feels like she is the parent in this situation and she wants her freedom. She even reasons with herself at maybe just placing her mom on the bus to leave and she, Shannon continuing on with her plan for the summer. But she soon realizes that that is not the best way to be, her mother needs her. Shannon soon finds out some family secrets about her mom. She even thinks she will have trouble adjusting to this kind of life, but soon some one crosses her path that could change her mind about the situation.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
Sixteen-year-old Shannon McNamara has exciting plans for the summer, and she can't wait to get to them. Unbeknownst to her, however, her widowed and ailing mother has plans of her own--to relocate them both to the heart of Amish country in Ohio where she has relatives who can look after her. Shannon quickly learns that living a "simple" life is actually a lot of hard work. But when a hot young Amish guy named Nate Troyer enters the picture, she's ready to get an Amish makeover and even consider making it a permanent change. But does Nate share her attraction? Will Shannon really make the jump into this new way of life? And will it be for the right reasons?
Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fans another sweet story of worlds--and families--colliding, exploring themes important to teen girls through an engaging tale.
About the Author:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than two hundred books, including the Life at Kingston High series, The Dating Games series, Double Take, and A Simple Song. She has received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. Melody and her husband live in Oregon. Find out more at www.melodycarlson.com.
My Review:
Shannon is a 16 year old girl with a plan for her summer vacation. She and her best friend Merenda discuss it on the last day of school as they ride home on the bus. First part of her plan is to get her drivers license and the second part is to get a job. But as soon as Shannon gets home that day from school it seems that her neighbor Mrs. Wimple lets her in on the "real" plan for her summer. Shannon and Mrs. Wimple have been caring for Shannon's ailing mother for sometime now. So the very kindly neighbor along with Shannon's mother Anna have devised a plan that involves Shannon and her mom to stay with family about 5 hours away in Hochstetler in Ohio.
Shannon feels like she is the parent in this situation and she wants her freedom. She even reasons with herself at maybe just placing her mom on the bus to leave and she, Shannon continuing on with her plan for the summer. But she soon realizes that that is not the best way to be, her mother needs her. Shannon soon finds out some family secrets about her mom. She even thinks she will have trouble adjusting to this kind of life, but soon some one crosses her path that could change her mind about the situation.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
February 26, 2014
My copy was provided by Netgalley.
Shannon is an everyday teenager who can't wait to have fun and grow up, but she didn't want to be a mother to her own mother. Her mother is suffering from a disease that makes her so dizzy that she can hardly stand up. Shannon has to take care of the house, her mother, and her grades which doesn't leave her a lot of free time. So when Shannon's mother decides to move back with the parents Shannon never knew about, her whole world turned upside down. It turns out Shannon's grandparents are Amish and for Shannon to help her mother, she must learn the ways of the Amish and make her own decisions on her future.
Shannon's feelings and frustrations were well expressed in this book. You could tell Shannon was angry about how she couldn't enjoy her life and was missing out on so many important things, but she didn't regret helping her mother. She wants to be accepted by her grandparents, especially the grandfather who seems to hate her. Shannon works hard, never backing down, just so she can gain the acceptance of her grandparents who never knew her for sixteen years.
I like how this book taught me about the Amish and their ways of life. Instead of glossing over the details, Carlson explained about their religion and the troubles they go through every day. Just like other families, the Amish have rough times, but they always persevere, never giving up the simple things in life.
The book was quick and quite enjoyable. What I didn't like was the relationship between Shannon and Ezra. They met only a few times and their second meeting involved Shannon saying she loves him. I mean, she barely knows the guy and she's already declaring her love for him. At the very most, she probably just had a crush on him.
And he doesn't discourage her. He said he loves her even though it's practically impossible to love someone you barely know that you only met two or three times. They even got close to having sex when they don't know anything about each other. Shannon doesn't know anything about Ezra's life, yet she's willing to give up everything for him. I found this aspect very unrealistic.
This was a fast read that kept me interested the whole time. I like how Carlson illustrated the relationship between Shannon and her mother and how Shannon would do anything to protect her mom, even if it meant giving up things she loves.
Shannon is an everyday teenager who can't wait to have fun and grow up, but she didn't want to be a mother to her own mother. Her mother is suffering from a disease that makes her so dizzy that she can hardly stand up. Shannon has to take care of the house, her mother, and her grades which doesn't leave her a lot of free time. So when Shannon's mother decides to move back with the parents Shannon never knew about, her whole world turned upside down. It turns out Shannon's grandparents are Amish and for Shannon to help her mother, she must learn the ways of the Amish and make her own decisions on her future.
Shannon's feelings and frustrations were well expressed in this book. You could tell Shannon was angry about how she couldn't enjoy her life and was missing out on so many important things, but she didn't regret helping her mother. She wants to be accepted by her grandparents, especially the grandfather who seems to hate her. Shannon works hard, never backing down, just so she can gain the acceptance of her grandparents who never knew her for sixteen years.
I like how this book taught me about the Amish and their ways of life. Instead of glossing over the details, Carlson explained about their religion and the troubles they go through every day. Just like other families, the Amish have rough times, but they always persevere, never giving up the simple things in life.
The book was quick and quite enjoyable. What I didn't like was the relationship between Shannon and Ezra. They met only a few times and their second meeting involved Shannon saying she loves him. I mean, she barely knows the guy and she's already declaring her love for him. At the very most, she probably just had a crush on him.
And he doesn't discourage her. He said he loves her even though it's practically impossible to love someone you barely know that you only met two or three times. They even got close to having sex when they don't know anything about each other. Shannon doesn't know anything about Ezra's life, yet she's willing to give up everything for him. I found this aspect very unrealistic.
This was a fast read that kept me interested the whole time. I like how Carlson illustrated the relationship between Shannon and her mother and how Shannon would do anything to protect her mom, even if it meant giving up things she loves.
February 23, 2014
My Amish Boyfriend
By Melody Carlson
Shannon McNamara has a plan for her summer and she's determined to get three things accomplished. First off is getting her driver's license, second a job, and third a tattoo.
But as the saying goes the best laid plans of mice and men soon go awry and so do Shannon's. Her mother's illness has become so great that she reveals to Shannon that she has a family in Ohio and they have no choice but to go there for help.
But the existence of family isn't all that Shannon's mother has hidden from her. Shannon's grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are all Amish!
Living a whole summer as Amish has an appeal to Shannon, until she starts playing Amish. The work is hard, but doable. The clothes are different than what she is use to. And who heard of pinning your clothes instead of buttoning or zipping them up?
But meeting Ezra Troyer may make it all worthwhile and it could be incentive for becoming Amish. But is love enough reason to become Amish? Shannon is about to find out!
My Amish Boyfriend is a book that will appeal to teen girls and fans of Melody Carlson. It takes a look at the difference in true love and a crush. It also looks at the current romanticism of the Amish lifestyle and how it is a belief system and not just a set rules.
With her mother shunned can Shannon really embrace a life that would forbid her to have contact with her mother? And how can her mother receive the proper care that her condition requires if she can't get her to a doctor with all the modern technology?
My Amish Boyfriend looks at the strains a single parent household faces when an unexpected illness reverses the roles that parent and child must play. In a sense Shannon's Amish fling is an escape, or at least attempt to escape the pressures of dealing with a chronically ill parent.
This is an enjoyable book that will appeal on many levels and I loved Shannon's efforts to learn about her newly discovered family and her attempts to fit in. I also find her discovers about herself and her identity to be believable. I wouldn't mind revisiting Shannon McNamara in a future book just to see where she goes.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Revell in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
By Melody Carlson
Shannon McNamara has a plan for her summer and she's determined to get three things accomplished. First off is getting her driver's license, second a job, and third a tattoo.
But as the saying goes the best laid plans of mice and men soon go awry and so do Shannon's. Her mother's illness has become so great that she reveals to Shannon that she has a family in Ohio and they have no choice but to go there for help.
But the existence of family isn't all that Shannon's mother has hidden from her. Shannon's grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are all Amish!
Living a whole summer as Amish has an appeal to Shannon, until she starts playing Amish. The work is hard, but doable. The clothes are different than what she is use to. And who heard of pinning your clothes instead of buttoning or zipping them up?
But meeting Ezra Troyer may make it all worthwhile and it could be incentive for becoming Amish. But is love enough reason to become Amish? Shannon is about to find out!
My Amish Boyfriend is a book that will appeal to teen girls and fans of Melody Carlson. It takes a look at the difference in true love and a crush. It also looks at the current romanticism of the Amish lifestyle and how it is a belief system and not just a set rules.
With her mother shunned can Shannon really embrace a life that would forbid her to have contact with her mother? And how can her mother receive the proper care that her condition requires if she can't get her to a doctor with all the modern technology?
My Amish Boyfriend looks at the strains a single parent household faces when an unexpected illness reverses the roles that parent and child must play. In a sense Shannon's Amish fling is an escape, or at least attempt to escape the pressures of dealing with a chronically ill parent.
This is an enjoyable book that will appeal on many levels and I loved Shannon's efforts to learn about her newly discovered family and her attempts to fit in. I also find her discovers about herself and her identity to be believable. I wouldn't mind revisiting Shannon McNamara in a future book just to see where she goes.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Revell in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
February 23, 2014
Shannon does not have it all but she does have goals for summer vacation that won't see her sitting idly by. Not bad goals for a girl of sixteen! Life does take a turn in this story though and sometimes reality is harder to believe than fiction. No matter how you plan it seems that life often takes those unexpected turns. Summer vacation has just begun and Shannon learns that her mother's parents are alive. Not only alive but they are Amish! Shannon and her chronically ill mother are to take the bus to Ohio the very next morning so that her mother can get well again. Hard to absorb this piece of news, it is harder yet when Shannon gets off the bus and waits for her uncle to pick them up in a horse and buggy.
As Shannon is adapting to living a plain life she is captivated by a young Amish man named Ezra who has all the looks and charms to sweep her off her feet. His smooth talking ways are sincere to Shannon, who has just met her first love. Is he truly in love with her? Would he love her more if she converted to the Amish faith? Would her mother's family accept her more too if she became one of them?
Her mother, Anna, is not improving and Shannon is faced with serious decisions to make that are not supported by her Amish family. She must take responsibility and come into her own identity. This is a coming of age story unlike many you have read. Melody Carlson tells a story of love and being true to self. I love how she weaves so many ideas through the story. A simple life is not as simple as it looks. Anyone who lives past their teen years knows from experience they are difficult in and of themselves.
I am impressed with the well written plot and character development of My Amish Boyfriend. My granddaughter saw my copy on my desk and is waiting to borrow it. It will be a fun book to discuss with her and I am sure we will talk at length of the characters. I wonder how she will react when she sees the plot twist and turn; I wonder what she will say about Ezra and his loyalty to his faith and family. This is the first time I have read one of Melody Carlson's books and I understand her appeal to young readers. The characters are easy to identify with and the story keeps the reader's interest.
As Shannon is adapting to living a plain life she is captivated by a young Amish man named Ezra who has all the looks and charms to sweep her off her feet. His smooth talking ways are sincere to Shannon, who has just met her first love. Is he truly in love with her? Would he love her more if she converted to the Amish faith? Would her mother's family accept her more too if she became one of them?
Her mother, Anna, is not improving and Shannon is faced with serious decisions to make that are not supported by her Amish family. She must take responsibility and come into her own identity. This is a coming of age story unlike many you have read. Melody Carlson tells a story of love and being true to self. I love how she weaves so many ideas through the story. A simple life is not as simple as it looks. Anyone who lives past their teen years knows from experience they are difficult in and of themselves.
I am impressed with the well written plot and character development of My Amish Boyfriend. My granddaughter saw my copy on my desk and is waiting to borrow it. It will be a fun book to discuss with her and I am sure we will talk at length of the characters. I wonder how she will react when she sees the plot twist and turn; I wonder what she will say about Ezra and his loyalty to his faith and family. This is the first time I have read one of Melody Carlson's books and I understand her appeal to young readers. The characters are easy to identify with and the story keeps the reader's interest.
April 9, 2014
For those of you who don’t know, I have a deep fascination with the Amish. As I started reading this book, I also started watching Breaking Amish for the first time on Netflix. I know there’s a lot of controversy surrounding the show and it’s credibility, but it is fun to watch. And I think it puts some aspects of Amish and Mennonite communities into perspective; especially their practice of shunning. A lot of times novels and TV Shows romanticize the Amish lifestyle, but it’s true that it is not without its complications.
At first, I thought this was going to be a book that praised the lifestyle and see no wrong in it. I’m not saying it is a bad lifestyle, please don’t get me wrong. We are all human though, and no matter your culture, we all have flaws. This book really delved into that, which I appreciate.
We meet our main character Shannon as she is planning her perfect summer. Her dreams however are crushed when she comes home to her sick mother. The doctors aren’t fully sure what’s wrong and give her a vague diagnosis. However, her mother is getting worse and the neighbor is unable to care for her. It is then that Shannon is introduced to the foreign fact that her mother actually has family. Her ever so kind neighbor ships the mother and daughter to their family. So much for a summer job and butterfly tattoo! Shannon was greeted by an Amish man in a buggy upon her arrival.
Shannon has to learn to accept the lack of electricity and hard work required living in the Amish community, but she doesn’t seem to mind. At least not after she meets the handsome Ezra. She even thinks that maybe being Amish isn’t so bad. But Ezra isn’t sure if he wants to be Amish. After all, he hasn’t been baptized yet and still goes to parties. Things take an interesting turn of events when Shannon finds out that her cousin had (or perhaps, has?) a thing for Ezra. So there it is — can Shannon get over her cousin’s past with Ezra? Will she join the Amish, or will Ezra leave the community? I suggest picking up a copy to find out. This book is totally worth it. I received it from Melody’s publisher for an honest review. I was not disappointed. I love Melody Carlson and all her books, she’s a wonderful author!
At first, I thought this was going to be a book that praised the lifestyle and see no wrong in it. I’m not saying it is a bad lifestyle, please don’t get me wrong. We are all human though, and no matter your culture, we all have flaws. This book really delved into that, which I appreciate.
We meet our main character Shannon as she is planning her perfect summer. Her dreams however are crushed when she comes home to her sick mother. The doctors aren’t fully sure what’s wrong and give her a vague diagnosis. However, her mother is getting worse and the neighbor is unable to care for her. It is then that Shannon is introduced to the foreign fact that her mother actually has family. Her ever so kind neighbor ships the mother and daughter to their family. So much for a summer job and butterfly tattoo! Shannon was greeted by an Amish man in a buggy upon her arrival.
Shannon has to learn to accept the lack of electricity and hard work required living in the Amish community, but she doesn’t seem to mind. At least not after she meets the handsome Ezra. She even thinks that maybe being Amish isn’t so bad. But Ezra isn’t sure if he wants to be Amish. After all, he hasn’t been baptized yet and still goes to parties. Things take an interesting turn of events when Shannon finds out that her cousin had (or perhaps, has?) a thing for Ezra. So there it is — can Shannon get over her cousin’s past with Ezra? Will she join the Amish, or will Ezra leave the community? I suggest picking up a copy to find out. This book is totally worth it. I received it from Melody’s publisher for an honest review. I was not disappointed. I love Melody Carlson and all her books, she’s a wonderful author!
February 24, 2014
Melody Carlson in her new book, “My Amish Boyfriend” published by Revell brings us into the life of Shannon McNamara.
From the back cover: Shannon’s summer just got a whole lot more . . . Amish?
Shannon McNamara has exciting plans for the summer–getting her driver’s license, a job, and more–and she can’t wait to dive in. But her ill mother has plans of her own: to relocate them both to the heart of Amish country in Ohio where she has relatives who can help her.
Turns out a “simple” life is actually a lot of hard work. But when a hot young Amish guy named Ezra enters the picture, Shannon’s ready to get an Amish makeover and even consider making it a permanent change. Will these plans come crashing down around her too? Or can she really make the jump into a whole new way of life?
Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fans another surprising story of worlds–and families–colliding.
“My Amish Boyfriend” is a coming of age tale unlike any other that I have read before. What do you do when there is a crisis? Why, you turn to family to help you through, of course. What do you do when you learn that you have family that you were not aware of before and they turn out to be Amish? Shannon has to worry about her ill mother and all the complexities of learning about her new family and what it means to be Amish. ”My Amish Boyfriend” is a story of love and about being true to self. Melody Carlson knows how to write and she has delivered a wonderful story about learning who we are and what we are about. There are great characters within these pages that we can like a lot with plenty of human relationships that we can identify with.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. 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 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Shannon’s summer just got a whole lot more . . . Amish?
Shannon McNamara has exciting plans for the summer–getting her driver’s license, a job, and more–and she can’t wait to dive in. But her ill mother has plans of her own: to relocate them both to the heart of Amish country in Ohio where she has relatives who can help her.
Turns out a “simple” life is actually a lot of hard work. But when a hot young Amish guy named Ezra enters the picture, Shannon’s ready to get an Amish makeover and even consider making it a permanent change. Will these plans come crashing down around her too? Or can she really make the jump into a whole new way of life?
Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fans another surprising story of worlds–and families–colliding.
“My Amish Boyfriend” is a coming of age tale unlike any other that I have read before. What do you do when there is a crisis? Why, you turn to family to help you through, of course. What do you do when you learn that you have family that you were not aware of before and they turn out to be Amish? Shannon has to worry about her ill mother and all the complexities of learning about her new family and what it means to be Amish. ”My Amish Boyfriend” is a story of love and about being true to self. Melody Carlson knows how to write and she has delivered a wonderful story about learning who we are and what we are about. There are great characters within these pages that we can like a lot with plenty of human relationships that we can identify with.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. 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 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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