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New Augsburg
The year is 2117, and Lydia Klein has lived a sheltered life in New Augsburg, a small town established as an oasis in an increasingly secular world. In the face of a government that heavily regulates publishing of explicitly Christian materials, Lydia’s family operates a privately owned press dedicated to printing books that proclaim the timeless Word of God.
Faced with the loss of their parents, her brother’s unwillingness to carry on the family business leaves Lydia uncertain of the future.
When the charming and polished Zachary Barrett, a wealthy son of the town, expresses interest in marrying her and buying her family’s press, she imagines that her problems may soon be solved. But as disagreements and new acquaintances threaten to come between them, will Lydia learn to act out of trust or be trapped in fear?
Faced with the loss of their parents, her brother’s unwillingness to carry on the family business leaves Lydia uncertain of the future.
When the charming and polished Zachary Barrett, a wealthy son of the town, expresses interest in marrying her and buying her family’s press, she imagines that her problems may soon be solved. But as disagreements and new acquaintances threaten to come between them, will Lydia learn to act out of trust or be trapped in fear?
332 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2023
38 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Christa Petzold
7 books53 followersChrista Petzold is a pastor’s wife and stay-at-home mother of four. Her passion is writing fiction and nonfiction that highlights the love of Christ for His Bride, the Church. She holds a master’s degree in Theology from Concordia University Irvine, a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Lutheran Secondary Education from Concordia University Wisconsin, and is currently pursuing a PhD in History of Exegesis through Concordia Seminary. She lives with her family in Antioch, Illinois, and spends her time homeschooling, writing, reading, and studying church history.
Find her on Instagram @christa.petzold and at christapetzold.com.
Find her on Instagram @christa.petzold and at christapetzold.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
March 26, 2025
Sweet, wholesome, clean, Christian romance. Some skilled characterization. Dialogue isn't the best, but also isn't constantly over the top. Descriptions are enough to create background without being distracting. Set 100 years in the future with only subtle hints of future technologies and events.
Explores themes of insecurities, confidence, loneliness, and trust. Asks the all-important question: Is it okay to think a man attractive in a clerical? (I laughed aloud at that.)
Sequel please! A romance for Elizabeth? I must know how she manages to escape Zach’s clutches.
Giving this five stars just so the Goodreads algorithm will support the book. We need more books like this. Can we start a publishing movement of LCMS romance fiction written by pastors' wives? CPH needs to publish this kind of thing.
Explores themes of insecurities, confidence, loneliness, and trust. Asks the all-important question: Is it okay to think a man attractive in a clerical? (I laughed aloud at that.)
Sequel please! A romance for Elizabeth? I must know how she manages to escape Zach’s clutches.
Giving this five stars just so the Goodreads algorithm will support the book. We need more books like this. Can we start a publishing movement of LCMS romance fiction written by pastors' wives? CPH needs to publish this kind of thing.
October 29, 2023
This book surprised me in the best way. I wasn’t sure I would enjoy a book set in the future when I don’t often enjoy contemporary settings, but our main character Lydia has a heart for preserving the past, especially the great writings of the Christian faith that are all but banned by the government-controlled publishers.
Having recently lost her mother and with her brother not equally committed to preserving her family’s small press, Lydia finds herself facing tough choices alone. One of those choices relates to marriage. Though the book has a bit of a love triangle, I was only ever cheering for one of the men interested in Lydia. I won’t give it away, but the hero really steals the show. He’s just the best!
Through all of this, Lydia is learning to trust the Lord to preserve His church and His truth—and to direct her life. Highly recommend for Christian fiction lovers of any denomination, and totally appropriate for teens as well as adults.
Having recently lost her mother and with her brother not equally committed to preserving her family’s small press, Lydia finds herself facing tough choices alone. One of those choices relates to marriage. Though the book has a bit of a love triangle, I was only ever cheering for one of the men interested in Lydia. I won’t give it away, but the hero really steals the show. He’s just the best!
Through all of this, Lydia is learning to trust the Lord to preserve His church and His truth—and to direct her life. Highly recommend for Christian fiction lovers of any denomination, and totally appropriate for teens as well as adults.
June 14, 2025
I'd classify this novel as a cozy dystopian Christian romance - a genre I didn't know existed until I read this book. :) Great character development. Once I got about halfway through I couldn't put it down! Audiobook is well done and made the story all the more immersive and enjoyable. I'm excited to read the next two books in the trilogy!
March 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next in the series. It’s set about a hundred years in the future, but the issues facing the characters, the familial relationships, and the love stories intertwined, could all take place today. Of course the troubling times that they live in, which caused the town of New Augsburg to be set apart from others, does make the storyline unique. But what I really loved was the honest way the characters talk with each other and the realistic dialogue. It kept me completely immersed in the story and anxious about how loose ends would tie up. And while some did, and the ending was very satisfying…some will continue on in the next book of the trilogy!
November 3, 2023
New Augsburg is a page-turner! Set in the future, Petzold takes us to an idyllic Christian town, where a local press still operates outside of hostile government control. Lydia’s circumstances—the loss of her parents and her brother’s unwillingness to take over the family business—lead her to pursue a relationship that might solve all her problems. Or will this perceived solution only lead to new difficulties? You won’t be disappointed by all the twists and turns along the way.
October 13, 2023
Is the year 2117 or 1817? In some scenes, it's hard to tell the difference, and this is because New Augsburg is a community set apart--both literally in rural Wisconsin and culturally as an outpost of faithful Christians in an increasingly anti-Christian world. While many of the town's residence--like the lovable and young Lydia and Danielle, matronly Maybelle, and tried-and-true Pastor Pederson--embrace a more antiquated yet faithful lifestyle, others--like Lydia's own brother Micah--are discontented, or--like the powerful Barrett family--look for ways to bridge the gap between a wayward culture in the outside world and the survival of a community trying to fly under the radar.
In her debut novel, Christa masterfully creates an old-yet-new community set in the future. The characters are fresh and engaging, ready to sweep you into their love stories and dilemmas. The characters and plot will draw you in and keep you turning the pages all on their own, but that's not all there is to this work of speculative fiction. Christa allows us to consider and imagine what the role of the Church may look like in the future and what trying decisions Christians may have to make. While part of the plot is moved along by Lydia's developing romance, the other aspect of the plot deals with Lydia's family owned press and the troubles posed by lack of funding, the government's overreach and content suppression, and ownership drama within the New Augsburg town council. At times, the reader--and Lydia herself--isn't sure what the right next step is or whom to root for!
Christa has written a refreshing love story with characters who are imperfect yet striving to keep Christ at the center of their lives and live in God-honoring relationships. This is done without feeling contrived or moralistic. Simply put, this is a story that Christians can relate to and yet allows the imagination to stretch itself in the futuristic setting. New Augusburg is a delight to read, and a book that will have you itching for the sequel when you've turned the final page.
In her debut novel, Christa masterfully creates an old-yet-new community set in the future. The characters are fresh and engaging, ready to sweep you into their love stories and dilemmas. The characters and plot will draw you in and keep you turning the pages all on their own, but that's not all there is to this work of speculative fiction. Christa allows us to consider and imagine what the role of the Church may look like in the future and what trying decisions Christians may have to make. While part of the plot is moved along by Lydia's developing romance, the other aspect of the plot deals with Lydia's family owned press and the troubles posed by lack of funding, the government's overreach and content suppression, and ownership drama within the New Augsburg town council. At times, the reader--and Lydia herself--isn't sure what the right next step is or whom to root for!
Christa has written a refreshing love story with characters who are imperfect yet striving to keep Christ at the center of their lives and live in God-honoring relationships. This is done without feeling contrived or moralistic. Simply put, this is a story that Christians can relate to and yet allows the imagination to stretch itself in the futuristic setting. New Augusburg is a delight to read, and a book that will have you itching for the sequel when you've turned the final page.
October 23, 2023
Such a fun, refreshing read! Christa has masterfully woven a story that reinvigorated my desire to read, telling a story that was difficult for me to put down. The setting was well crafted, the characters carefully fleshed out, and the theology well researched.
Even though New Augsburg is set in 2117, it feels as though it could happen today. Christa did an excellent job building the world of New Augsburg, Wisconsin and the surrounding world. The worries and doubts of the residents of New Augsburg regarding the secular world and how it would impact them is easily paralleled with some of the same worries and doubts among Christians today.
New Augsburg is a relatable story, something the reader can easily insert herself into. From her quick wit and humor to her temper, Lydia is a well-rounded character I was excited to spend time with. Her growth is continuous throughout, and it’s refreshing to read a romance novel where the female lead is not ditzy or air-headed. David is kind and caring, and is a strong juxtaposition to Zach. You can clearly see Christa’s passion for Biblical gender roles woven in the characterization of David and how he cares for Lydia when Zach does not. He is a strong example of Biblical masculinity, something that is not seen in much of pop culture today.
New Augsburg is full of rich theology and Biblical truth, a clear example of Christa’s knowledge of Lutheran doctrine and history. I found myself making note of several of the truths shared as reminders for myself when I struggle.
I absolutely loved New Augsburg and cannot wait to recommend it to others. I’m anxiously waiting the next book!
Even though New Augsburg is set in 2117, it feels as though it could happen today. Christa did an excellent job building the world of New Augsburg, Wisconsin and the surrounding world. The worries and doubts of the residents of New Augsburg regarding the secular world and how it would impact them is easily paralleled with some of the same worries and doubts among Christians today.
New Augsburg is a relatable story, something the reader can easily insert herself into. From her quick wit and humor to her temper, Lydia is a well-rounded character I was excited to spend time with. Her growth is continuous throughout, and it’s refreshing to read a romance novel where the female lead is not ditzy or air-headed. David is kind and caring, and is a strong juxtaposition to Zach. You can clearly see Christa’s passion for Biblical gender roles woven in the characterization of David and how he cares for Lydia when Zach does not. He is a strong example of Biblical masculinity, something that is not seen in much of pop culture today.
New Augsburg is full of rich theology and Biblical truth, a clear example of Christa’s knowledge of Lutheran doctrine and history. I found myself making note of several of the truths shared as reminders for myself when I struggle.
I absolutely loved New Augsburg and cannot wait to recommend it to others. I’m anxiously waiting the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2025
Christa is a new-to-me author, so when I got the chance to check out her audiobook release of New Augsburg, I jumped at the chance, and I'm happy to say that it did not disappoint.
This falls under the umbrella of "dystopian Christian fiction," and it is fairly unique. Dystopian always fascinates me because it can be present or future that often has a vibe from the past. In this case, New Augsburg is a town founded to maintain a certain kind of life and is run pretty much off the grid and only by a handful of families in the community. It is meant to be a kind of utopia, but as all humans are susceptible to temptation, not all is as it seems.
You won't find big battles in this dystopian story, and the only world at stake is the town of New Augsburg. However, there is a fairly significant struggle for power as the sweet FMC tries to keep her family business and considers a marriage of convenience to make it happen. She was so relatable, and I really loved the internal struggle she went through as she tried to evaluate what she must to to keep her family's press business. The worst bad guys are also sometimes the ones that feel the most real and you know could really happen (and possibly have IRL).
The story captivated me, and the narration was excellent. I will definitely be continuing on through the series to find out what happens next!
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to listen to and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
This falls under the umbrella of "dystopian Christian fiction," and it is fairly unique. Dystopian always fascinates me because it can be present or future that often has a vibe from the past. In this case, New Augsburg is a town founded to maintain a certain kind of life and is run pretty much off the grid and only by a handful of families in the community. It is meant to be a kind of utopia, but as all humans are susceptible to temptation, not all is as it seems.
You won't find big battles in this dystopian story, and the only world at stake is the town of New Augsburg. However, there is a fairly significant struggle for power as the sweet FMC tries to keep her family business and considers a marriage of convenience to make it happen. She was so relatable, and I really loved the internal struggle she went through as she tried to evaluate what she must to to keep her family's press business. The worst bad guys are also sometimes the ones that feel the most real and you know could really happen (and possibly have IRL).
The story captivated me, and the narration was excellent. I will definitely be continuing on through the series to find out what happens next!
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to listen to and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
November 9, 2025
This delightful romance feels like Jeanette Oke meets Katie Schuermann meets Jane Austen! Christa Petzold is a gifted writer, able to tell an engrossing story that's sweet without being sappy. The novel weaves together themes of faith, grief, family relationships, and the tension of living as a Christian in an increasingly hostile world. Unlike some romances with characters either too perfect or too flawed, Petzold's characters are refreshingly-- and sometimes uncomfortably-- realistic and relatable, enabling readers to see themselves, saint and sinner, reflected in the pages. The book's ending is satisfying without wrapping up every loose end, which left me eager and excited to continue the series!
March 1, 2024
What a wonderfully delightful book for this age. Lydia is charming, real, and human. She experiences the same feelings and issues i imagine most of us face, and it's encouraging to have her Jesus-centered approach to life, love, and happiness.
It is scary to consider this as an actual possibility for our future, especially based on where we are now and what is starting to be considered hate-crimes. Will the Bible one day be marked with red stamps or sold only with pieces left out because of the "hate speech"?
I had to just laugh out loud when Lydia wonders, "Is it okay to think a man attractive in a clerical?" Good question!
It is scary to consider this as an actual possibility for our future, especially based on where we are now and what is starting to be considered hate-crimes. Will the Bible one day be marked with red stamps or sold only with pieces left out because of the "hate speech"?
I had to just laugh out loud when Lydia wonders, "Is it okay to think a man attractive in a clerical?" Good question!
October 23, 2023
There aren’t wholesome books like this anymore- thank you Christa! It’s so refreshing to read something wholeheartedly Christian with an engaging story to get lost in.
This story had me dreaming about wanting to preserve the old (like learning to waltz!) and remaining faithful through trying cultural climates. It had me contemplating different aspects of the Christian life more deeply, like courting and preserving Christian writings. The friendships and relationships of the town are inspiring. We all need a mentor like Maybelle, a best friend like Danielle, and a Pastor like Pastor Pederson. I’d like to move to New Augsburg!
This story had me dreaming about wanting to preserve the old (like learning to waltz!) and remaining faithful through trying cultural climates. It had me contemplating different aspects of the Christian life more deeply, like courting and preserving Christian writings. The friendships and relationships of the town are inspiring. We all need a mentor like Maybelle, a best friend like Danielle, and a Pastor like Pastor Pederson. I’d like to move to New Augsburg!
May 29, 2025
This is the Lutheran dystopian I have been waiting for! Set in the distant future, this book does an amazing job of incorporating the Lutheran faith while also creating a dystopian world that is hostile to the Gospel. It also shows that not even Lutheran communities are perfect, and that all people are flawed by sin. Amazing read!
August 22, 2025
This book was such an amazing book. I wish I knew about it sooner. As I was listening to it I could envision myself standing next to the characters and feeling what they feel. I would recommend this book to anyone that was looking for a good read. It was a wholesome book, yet there was some unexpected turns in the relationships of the characters. I can not wait to read the next book.
February 29, 2024
It’s giving timeless Louisa May Alcott vibes with a dash of the Gospel and the gift of the Church. Loved every second! Can’t wait for the next one!
December 7, 2025
Spoilers below!
I had such a good time with this book. It is quite possibly the first of its kind-a dystopian future, young adult novel based squarely in Lutheranism. There were Scripture references, but also references to beloved hymns, the Seminary, the Call Process, and general beliefs about the virtue and value of modesty, homemaking, and the like. It was refreshing to be able to read a book and not have to sigh when something inappropriate happens. The story was squeaky clean, still managing to build tension and suspense. Can more modern writers do this, please?
For me, the part I was least enthralled with was Lydia's relationship with Zach. As someone who was once a young woman, I can definitely see where she was coming from with her reservations and hesitations to make him the bad guy. (In fact, I "dated" someone in high school for close to four years simply because he showed interest in me, without me ever really considering if I loved him back). But as a slightly less young woman, now, I spent most of the book yelling at Lydia. "Girl, dump him! He's toxic!" I think that the choice to give him a real villainous turn halfway through the book (instead of the Austinean "let's do this in the last 50 pages") was helpful for the development of the story, and that the natural consequence of him actually having to manage the press after the publishing deal was deemed unnecessary worked well in the story's context. It's tricky to criminalize emotional manipulation, especially when the manipulator isn't self-reflecting and realizing wrongs. This is blown to catastrophic proportions if the person is also the member of an influential family in a small town. I appreciate that it's clear that New Augsburg isn't a perfect place, but it's home all the same.
I'm glad a book like this exists. I hope that when my daughter grows up, there will be more like this that she can read and fall in love with. It's not perfect, but it was made with such incredible love and passion that I couldn't put it down.
My favorite line was the one about David looking handsome in a clerical. Lydia was so unsure of if she was allowed to think that. Girl, I bet all pastor's wives think their husbands look handsome in clericals. :)
I had such a good time with this book. It is quite possibly the first of its kind-a dystopian future, young adult novel based squarely in Lutheranism. There were Scripture references, but also references to beloved hymns, the Seminary, the Call Process, and general beliefs about the virtue and value of modesty, homemaking, and the like. It was refreshing to be able to read a book and not have to sigh when something inappropriate happens. The story was squeaky clean, still managing to build tension and suspense. Can more modern writers do this, please?
For me, the part I was least enthralled with was Lydia's relationship with Zach. As someone who was once a young woman, I can definitely see where she was coming from with her reservations and hesitations to make him the bad guy. (In fact, I "dated" someone in high school for close to four years simply because he showed interest in me, without me ever really considering if I loved him back). But as a slightly less young woman, now, I spent most of the book yelling at Lydia. "Girl, dump him! He's toxic!" I think that the choice to give him a real villainous turn halfway through the book (instead of the Austinean "let's do this in the last 50 pages") was helpful for the development of the story, and that the natural consequence of him actually having to manage the press after the publishing deal was deemed unnecessary worked well in the story's context. It's tricky to criminalize emotional manipulation, especially when the manipulator isn't self-reflecting and realizing wrongs. This is blown to catastrophic proportions if the person is also the member of an influential family in a small town. I appreciate that it's clear that New Augsburg isn't a perfect place, but it's home all the same.
I'm glad a book like this exists. I hope that when my daughter grows up, there will be more like this that she can read and fall in love with. It's not perfect, but it was made with such incredible love and passion that I couldn't put it down.
My favorite line was the one about David looking handsome in a clerical. Lydia was so unsure of if she was allowed to think that. Girl, I bet all pastor's wives think their husbands look handsome in clericals. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2023
At once timely and timeless, New Augsburg transports readers to a seemingly idyllic community in Wisconsin almost 100 years in the future. New Augsburg shelters her people from the increasingly hostile and overreaching government while actively working to preserve the message of Christ and His Church. Lydia Klein, our heroine, plays a small but mighty part in that mission, and the first installment in the New Augsburg trilogy follows her struggles and successes in managing the both her family’s press and her various vocations.
Through well-rounded characters and a descriptive plot, readers encounter themes of grief, loneliness, vocation, trust, faithfulness, forgiveness, and legacy. Add in a gentle romance, strong Christian female friendships, an air of mystery and suspense, and an underlying love letter to the power of the enduring Word, and New Augsburg is sure to delight and encourage readers as they draw parallels to living in today’s society. This book had me reflecting on my own role in the life of the Church, and the legacy I desire to leave for the next generation.
Petzold is a gifted writer with a passion for encouraging the Church, and both her fiction and nonfiction deserves a space on every Christian reader’s bookshelf!
Through well-rounded characters and a descriptive plot, readers encounter themes of grief, loneliness, vocation, trust, faithfulness, forgiveness, and legacy. Add in a gentle romance, strong Christian female friendships, an air of mystery and suspense, and an underlying love letter to the power of the enduring Word, and New Augsburg is sure to delight and encourage readers as they draw parallels to living in today’s society. This book had me reflecting on my own role in the life of the Church, and the legacy I desire to leave for the next generation.
Petzold is a gifted writer with a passion for encouraging the Church, and both her fiction and nonfiction deserves a space on every Christian reader’s bookshelf!
July 22, 2025
This is a lovely little book, one to make LCMS Lutherans (in particular) to feel right at home.
Taking place 100 years in the future in Wisconsin (my current residence), the biggest changes in the world are political, causing a small town to turn inward and cautious.
The politics aren’t overt, and the story focuses mainly on Lydia’s path to grow in love and into adulthood after the recent passing of her mother.
At times, the writing was not quite as rich as I prefer, but the story was well written, and as I said, made me feel comfortable and at home. Looking forward to reading the subsequent books in the series and am grateful to have Lutheran Literature by yet another author.
Taking place 100 years in the future in Wisconsin (my current residence), the biggest changes in the world are political, causing a small town to turn inward and cautious.
The politics aren’t overt, and the story focuses mainly on Lydia’s path to grow in love and into adulthood after the recent passing of her mother.
At times, the writing was not quite as rich as I prefer, but the story was well written, and as I said, made me feel comfortable and at home. Looking forward to reading the subsequent books in the series and am grateful to have Lutheran Literature by yet another author.
October 31, 2023
New Augsburg invites the reader to a place of delight and relaxation – a slower pace of life, an intent focus on the Word and the Church’s teachings of it. In the midst of this lovely picture, however, Christa weaves a thread of tension that goes beyond the fear of the idyllic breakdown of New Augsburg, but the question of how are Christians to live in the world while remaining people of the Word.
January 15, 2026
I really enjoyed this story, and at a quick pace, too! If you are interested in a clean love story, set in an interesting small town, with just the right amount of predictability, along with a few curve balls thrown in, then you will like this book. I particularly enjoyed the Lutheran theology woven throughout and the nods to quality literature and classical education.
I'm interested to read the next book in the series in hopes to see what is happening in the world outside of New Augsburg!
I'm interested to read the next book in the series in hopes to see what is happening in the world outside of New Augsburg!
September 23, 2024
This is not in my normal genre realm. It took me awhile to get into the utopian setting of New Augsburg, but the thorough development of the characters made it an interesting read…I even started to develop strong dislike for ZB! And that’s what good writing does…makes the reader feel connected! I didn’t think I would be interested in part two, but now I want to know what happened to Micah!
October 2, 2025
Sweet and easy listen (on Audible). Great book to wind down with in the evenings! There was some unexpected drama and clean romance. Loved that there were LCMS doctrines, hymns, and beliefs mentioned throughout.
January 24, 2026
I loved Book 1
I look forward to books 2 and 3.
Full of anticipation, with worrisome moments, and character twists, book 1 had me turning kindle pages as I grew to love with Lydia's little town. I am excited to find how new stories unfold in the next two books.
I look forward to books 2 and 3.
Full of anticipation, with worrisome moments, and character twists, book 1 had me turning kindle pages as I grew to love with Lydia's little town. I am excited to find how new stories unfold in the next two books.
January 4, 2025
New Augsburg was excellent! The story was wonderfully written and the character development was top notch. The story wrapped up nicely, but definitely left me waiting for the next one!
September 18, 2024
Well, three stars... That might seem a little low for this 4 to 5 star rated book. It's not that I didn't enjoy the book, I did like it, but there are reasons my rating is lower.
First, from what I had heard about this book from my mom, it sounded like it would be a book based on the position of church and Christians in the future. Don't get me wrong, that was certainly present and interesting, but there was more to it than that and it seemed to be a small detail.
Second, throughout the first 200 or so pages of the book I was very upset with the main character and her poor decisions. Through my frustration I found it pretty hard to actually enjoy the book.
There were good things in this story, certainly. I thought it was well written and the Mrs. Petzold did a wonderful job stating what she wanted to say clearly.
First, from what I had heard about this book from my mom, it sounded like it would be a book based on the position of church and Christians in the future. Don't get me wrong, that was certainly present and interesting, but there was more to it than that and it seemed to be a small detail.
Second, throughout the first 200 or so pages of the book I was very upset with the main character and her poor decisions. Through my frustration I found it pretty hard to actually enjoy the book.
There were good things in this story, certainly. I thought it was well written and the Mrs. Petzold did a wonderful job stating what she wanted to say clearly.
February 3, 2025
This was an enjoyable light read. I think Mrs Petzold's writing has great promise, however this book lacked a few things that would have really made it shine.
I think this book would benefit immensely from more world building. It felt like it could have been set only twenty or so years from now, considering how little change was mentioned to technology etc. There was one mention of a war, but she didn’t expound on it. There’s also mentions of an anti Christian government, but the mentions of the issues are too vague. I think a prologue chapter setting up the world would have helped get me understand the world better and interested me in the world more.
I think also Mrs Petzold could have gone into more detail about the setting of the town and its customs. I think it would have been helpful to have a description of what the town looked like, mainly because I couldn’t envisage what the town looked like (especially at the beginning). It would have also helped with the wider world building, eg showing how architecture has changed in 100 years.
The town’s working in the field routine only featured one mention, which was a bit of a downer. I think if you want to really get a feel for the world and the rhythm of the society you need to mention those everyday routines a bit more, instead of just once.
Mrs Petzold went into great detail about the clothing, and honestly it sounded like what we wear today, except maybe a little more country like, which felt kind of unrealistic considering it’s set like a hundred years from now. She could have created an explanation for why fashion remained unchanged, or she could have just set it twenty years from now.
Something that irked me was the whole women not being allowed on the town council, and that Lydia couldn't inherit the press herself. That made no sense at all, considering that in the Bible women without next of kin were allowed to inherit (and even if they had next of kin they were provided for) and throughout history women have been able to inherit and own property. Also, she mentions that the town began in the late 2020s and I'm assuming their governance system and everything else was set up then, and I'm just saying, but no middle of the road Christian would see that as right or reasonable, and no woman in her right mind in this day and age would stand for that.
I think the moment of disagreement in the relationship between Lydia and David needed to be rethought and reworked. I don't get the whole him being upset at her proposing because he "wanted to lead" in their relationship. That was just a really weird moment that didn't make much sense. I agree with her that there needed to be some sort of "falling out", but I think if she had spent more time on it she could have found another issue for them to fall out over that would have made more sense.
I also found Maybell going "Zach's nice, but Davids the guy" when she hardly knows David a bit weird. I think it would made more sense if Maybell had either known David better or had dropped hints that Zach wasn't as nice as he made out to be.
Faith wise, I found it was more natural than many Christian books I’ve read, however there’s also an element of perhaps a little lack. We don’t really see Lydia pray as she’s facing these difficulties, I think it would have been better to see just a little more of this, especially since we see whole paragraphs of her thinking about conversations she’s had with other people and analysing them, which personally I don’t think where entirely necessary. Perhaps just a “she spent the afternoon thinking about their conversation” would have sufficed.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book despite it's deficiencies.
I think this book would benefit immensely from more world building. It felt like it could have been set only twenty or so years from now, considering how little change was mentioned to technology etc. There was one mention of a war, but she didn’t expound on it. There’s also mentions of an anti Christian government, but the mentions of the issues are too vague. I think a prologue chapter setting up the world would have helped get me understand the world better and interested me in the world more.
I think also Mrs Petzold could have gone into more detail about the setting of the town and its customs. I think it would have been helpful to have a description of what the town looked like, mainly because I couldn’t envisage what the town looked like (especially at the beginning). It would have also helped with the wider world building, eg showing how architecture has changed in 100 years.
The town’s working in the field routine only featured one mention, which was a bit of a downer. I think if you want to really get a feel for the world and the rhythm of the society you need to mention those everyday routines a bit more, instead of just once.
Mrs Petzold went into great detail about the clothing, and honestly it sounded like what we wear today, except maybe a little more country like, which felt kind of unrealistic considering it’s set like a hundred years from now. She could have created an explanation for why fashion remained unchanged, or she could have just set it twenty years from now.
Something that irked me was the whole women not being allowed on the town council, and that Lydia couldn't inherit the press herself. That made no sense at all, considering that in the Bible women without next of kin were allowed to inherit (and even if they had next of kin they were provided for) and throughout history women have been able to inherit and own property. Also, she mentions that the town began in the late 2020s and I'm assuming their governance system and everything else was set up then, and I'm just saying, but no middle of the road Christian would see that as right or reasonable, and no woman in her right mind in this day and age would stand for that.
I think the moment of disagreement in the relationship between Lydia and David needed to be rethought and reworked. I don't get the whole him being upset at her proposing because he "wanted to lead" in their relationship. That was just a really weird moment that didn't make much sense. I agree with her that there needed to be some sort of "falling out", but I think if she had spent more time on it she could have found another issue for them to fall out over that would have made more sense.
I also found Maybell going "Zach's nice, but Davids the guy" when she hardly knows David a bit weird. I think it would made more sense if Maybell had either known David better or had dropped hints that Zach wasn't as nice as he made out to be.
Faith wise, I found it was more natural than many Christian books I’ve read, however there’s also an element of perhaps a little lack. We don’t really see Lydia pray as she’s facing these difficulties, I think it would have been better to see just a little more of this, especially since we see whole paragraphs of her thinking about conversations she’s had with other people and analysing them, which personally I don’t think where entirely necessary. Perhaps just a “she spent the afternoon thinking about their conversation” would have sufficed.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book despite it's deficiencies.
November 13, 2023
I absolutely adore this book! It has the grace and charm of a Jane Austen novel blended seamlessly with the intrigue of a speculative fiction tale set in the future.
In the idyllic community of New Augsburg, Wisconsin, a town sets itself apart from a world and government growing increasingly hostile to Christians. While the townspeople of New Augsburg have chosen to separate themselves for the preservation of the Gospel of Christ and His Church, factions both inside and out threaten their way of life. At the center of the conflict is the Klein Press, an underground book printing company run by Lydia Klein after the loss of her parents.
Lydia is a delightful character, imbued with the grace, wit, and moral character of our favorite classic heroines. Her passion for the press, her determination to protect it, and her honest reflections were such an inspiration. It's easy to identify with her humanity as we walk with her through challenging circumstances, impossible decisions, and a very charming budding romance with a certain distinguished gentleman, but though she is presented realistically, Lydia's defining characteristic is her heart for the Lord and her desire to pursue strong moral character.
Petzold is a skilled and gifted writer. Her writing style is so clear and fresh. Through her plot and characterization, she weaves intrigue, church history, theology, and the most precious, budding romance with a futuristic world that still has the comforting ring of vintage vibes. New Augsburg feels like a classic novel in all the best ways.
It is a clean, wholesome, and pure story that I wouldn't hesitate to give my own teen daughters or any young ladies in my life.
I had the great honor and privilege of being the editor of this book! I highly recommend it to everyone but most especially to those of us who love classic novels but struggle to find them in the modern day. This is the book for us!!! Can't wait for Book 2!
5/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In the idyllic community of New Augsburg, Wisconsin, a town sets itself apart from a world and government growing increasingly hostile to Christians. While the townspeople of New Augsburg have chosen to separate themselves for the preservation of the Gospel of Christ and His Church, factions both inside and out threaten their way of life. At the center of the conflict is the Klein Press, an underground book printing company run by Lydia Klein after the loss of her parents.
Lydia is a delightful character, imbued with the grace, wit, and moral character of our favorite classic heroines. Her passion for the press, her determination to protect it, and her honest reflections were such an inspiration. It's easy to identify with her humanity as we walk with her through challenging circumstances, impossible decisions, and a very charming budding romance with a certain distinguished gentleman, but though she is presented realistically, Lydia's defining characteristic is her heart for the Lord and her desire to pursue strong moral character.
Petzold is a skilled and gifted writer. Her writing style is so clear and fresh. Through her plot and characterization, she weaves intrigue, church history, theology, and the most precious, budding romance with a futuristic world that still has the comforting ring of vintage vibes. New Augsburg feels like a classic novel in all the best ways.
It is a clean, wholesome, and pure story that I wouldn't hesitate to give my own teen daughters or any young ladies in my life.
I had the great honor and privilege of being the editor of this book! I highly recommend it to everyone but most especially to those of us who love classic novels but struggle to find them in the modern day. This is the book for us!!! Can't wait for Book 2!
5/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 29, 2023
This is such a sweet Christian romance novel- I read through it very quickly. Although the novel takes place in a very different future, I was drawn into the story and the sweet romance.
New Augsburg is a town set apart in an America that no longer tolerates Jesus. It is an America where Christian publications receive a ‘red mark’ because they are believed to be hateful. New Augsburg is a town, though, that still very much knows the importance of The Church. It’s a community that is a safe haven to still be a Christian and not have to hide that fact. Christa does an excellent job drawing the reader into this community and then creates a sweet, challenging, and charming Christian romance story.
I especially appreciated ‘getting to know’ the main character, Lydia. It was very clever the way Christa wove so many of Lydia’s thoughts into the story. It was fun to see how Lydia was challenged and learned so much about herself. Lydia was dealing with a lot: grief, new romance, and running a business that was not where she needed it to be. She had so much change happening in her life, but her one constant was her reliance on God. It was easy to feel the emotions Lydia was feeling because of the craftiness Christa used with us continually being invited in to Lydia’s thoughts. Christa excelled at inserting in theology and Christian culture in a way that was believable and not cheesy.
I highly recommend this book! Christa is so skilled with words. The book had a classic feel to it and was a delight to read.
New Augsburg is a town set apart in an America that no longer tolerates Jesus. It is an America where Christian publications receive a ‘red mark’ because they are believed to be hateful. New Augsburg is a town, though, that still very much knows the importance of The Church. It’s a community that is a safe haven to still be a Christian and not have to hide that fact. Christa does an excellent job drawing the reader into this community and then creates a sweet, challenging, and charming Christian romance story.
I especially appreciated ‘getting to know’ the main character, Lydia. It was very clever the way Christa wove so many of Lydia’s thoughts into the story. It was fun to see how Lydia was challenged and learned so much about herself. Lydia was dealing with a lot: grief, new romance, and running a business that was not where she needed it to be. She had so much change happening in her life, but her one constant was her reliance on God. It was easy to feel the emotions Lydia was feeling because of the craftiness Christa used with us continually being invited in to Lydia’s thoughts. Christa excelled at inserting in theology and Christian culture in a way that was believable and not cheesy.
I highly recommend this book! Christa is so skilled with words. The book had a classic feel to it and was a delight to read.
October 31, 2023
Christa Petzold's fiction book, New Augsburg, takes place in 2117, in a small town in Wisconsin. Orphan Lydia Klein runs her family's Christian printing press alone as brother Micah is away at university, and wants no part of the press. Problems are close-at-hand as government censorship threatens what is sacred content while Lydia fights for possession and control of her treasured press, the legacy of her parents and grandparents. New Augsburg's debonair, rich "perfect-on-paper" bachelor, Zachary Barrett offers Lydia hope in keeping her dreams alive. As Z. B. gains more control, visiting Lutheran seminarian student, David Schaeffer meets Lydia. While David learns of Lydia's situation, he challenges Lydia to seek God's will in the conflicts. Lydia's acted-on solutions for her professional and personal struggles cause things to go from bad to worse. It will take patience, humility and grace for Lydia to get the ending that not even she could see, but would be proud to print.
Christa has done a remarkable job in telling the story of New Augsburg. The characters are masterfully created to support the plot. The plot is well-developed and paced appropriately and doesn't have a "rushed" finish at the end. As you read New Augsburg, you will feel as if you are a resident of this quaint town. You will hold your breath, you will cheer, and you will relate to the not-so-perfect Lydia. The surprise ending is well worth the read in this page-turning novel!
Christa has done a remarkable job in telling the story of New Augsburg. The characters are masterfully created to support the plot. The plot is well-developed and paced appropriately and doesn't have a "rushed" finish at the end. As you read New Augsburg, you will feel as if you are a resident of this quaint town. You will hold your breath, you will cheer, and you will relate to the not-so-perfect Lydia. The surprise ending is well worth the read in this page-turning novel!
September 3, 2025
This was a sweet and enjoyable read. As a Christian, I can see how a future like this could be possible (if the Lord tarries). The FMC was kind and likable, though at times her interactions felt a bit childish for the age she was portrayed to be. I also found myself wishing for more background on the town itself—beyond the church, library, and press shop. For instance, is there a grocery store? How do the other residents make a living? Without these details, the community felt a little unrealistic, and I was left with several questions. Still, I enjoyed the story enough to continue with the second book, which I’m currently reading, and I hope the rest of the series gives more insight into the community’s day-to-day life and structure.
Some of my favorite lines in the book:
"David’s sermon was everything a sermon should be—aptly drawn from the Scripture reading, explicit in its application of the law, sweet and powerful in its administration of the Gospel".
> Speaking of Law and especially the Gospel in a fiction book, finally!!!
"The Church stands together, sharing what resources it has in common."
> Absolutely! Great truth!!!
"Jesus will be back, and His Church will be here waiting for Him, just as He promised."
> Soli Deo Gloria!!! Another amazing and anticipated truth!
Some of my favorite lines in the book:
"David’s sermon was everything a sermon should be—aptly drawn from the Scripture reading, explicit in its application of the law, sweet and powerful in its administration of the Gospel".
> Speaking of Law and especially the Gospel in a fiction book, finally!!!
"The Church stands together, sharing what resources it has in common."
> Absolutely! Great truth!!!
"Jesus will be back, and His Church will be here waiting for Him, just as He promised."
> Soli Deo Gloria!!! Another amazing and anticipated truth!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2023
Living as a Christian in a world decidedly hostile to our beliefs and values can make us wonder what it would be like to be surrounded daily by those with similar mindsets. If this sounds familiar, wonder no longer, fellow Christian!
Christa Petzold will plunk you down in the middle of just such a community set in a future that feels like the past. If you think such a life would be idyllic, Christa's characters (and the sound theology behind her writing) will remind you that life in this world is never perfect. Her well-drafted characters prove flawed and sinful yet relatable. They will remind you of folks you know, make you smile and give you a taste of life in the not-s0-distant future where struggles still exist and Christ's gifts still comfort and strengthen.
Lutheran Christians will feel especially at home in New Augsburg. Christa's characters, history and little details sprinkled throughout will resonate with those who have experienced a love of all things Lutheran.
Christa Petzold will plunk you down in the middle of just such a community set in a future that feels like the past. If you think such a life would be idyllic, Christa's characters (and the sound theology behind her writing) will remind you that life in this world is never perfect. Her well-drafted characters prove flawed and sinful yet relatable. They will remind you of folks you know, make you smile and give you a taste of life in the not-s0-distant future where struggles still exist and Christ's gifts still comfort and strengthen.
Lutheran Christians will feel especially at home in New Augsburg. Christa's characters, history and little details sprinkled throughout will resonate with those who have experienced a love of all things Lutheran.
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