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Sisters of the Quilt #1
When the Heart Cries
When Hannah dares to love across the boundaries of tradition, will she lose everything?
Despite being raised in a traditional Old Order Amish family, seventeen-year-old Hannah Lapp desires to break with custom, forgo baptism into the faith, and marry outside the cloistered community. She's been in love with Mennonite Paul Waddell for three years, and before returning to college for his senior year, Paul asks Hannah to be his wife. Hannah accepts, aware that her marriage will change her relationship with her family forever.
On the evening of their engagement, tragedy strikes and in one unwelcome encounter, all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed. As she finds herself entangled in questions that the Old Ways of her people cannot answer, Hannah faces the possibility of losing her place in her family, in her community- and in the heart of the man she loves.
When the Heart Cries is book one in the Sisters of the Quilt series.
Despite being raised in a traditional Old Order Amish family, seventeen-year-old Hannah Lapp desires to break with custom, forgo baptism into the faith, and marry outside the cloistered community. She's been in love with Mennonite Paul Waddell for three years, and before returning to college for his senior year, Paul asks Hannah to be his wife. Hannah accepts, aware that her marriage will change her relationship with her family forever.
On the evening of their engagement, tragedy strikes and in one unwelcome encounter, all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed. As she finds herself entangled in questions that the Old Ways of her people cannot answer, Hannah faces the possibility of losing her place in her family, in her community- and in the heart of the man she loves.
When the Heart Cries is book one in the Sisters of the Quilt series.
337 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
144 people are currently reading
3682 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
68 books1,118 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 551 reviews
September 8, 2012
This is a TERRIBLE BOOK! I wanted to read a book in the subgenre of Amish Romance, which I thought would be a sweet and gentle love story.
*spoiler alert*
Now, I must admit first that I did not read the entire book. I read the first chapter and the last, and I was completely outraged. I then scanned through the rest of the book.
The gist of this book is, Hannah loves a boy who is a Mennonite. She is going to break with her family and church and marry him. In the meantime, she is raped and becomes pregnant. WHAT? WHAT KIND OF CRAP IS THIS? This isn't romance, it's a Law and Order SVU episode. End of the book, she loses the baby and embarks on a life on her own outside the community and family who shunned her. But she trusts God that everything will turn out okay, and she and Paul will someday be reunited. REALLY? This is why it's fiction. In real life, she would develop a drinking problem and have to go to therapy for years.
*spoiler alert*
Now, I must admit first that I did not read the entire book. I read the first chapter and the last, and I was completely outraged. I then scanned through the rest of the book.
The gist of this book is, Hannah loves a boy who is a Mennonite. She is going to break with her family and church and marry him. In the meantime, she is raped and becomes pregnant. WHAT? WHAT KIND OF CRAP IS THIS? This isn't romance, it's a Law and Order SVU episode. End of the book, she loses the baby and embarks on a life on her own outside the community and family who shunned her. But she trusts God that everything will turn out okay, and she and Paul will someday be reunited. REALLY? This is why it's fiction. In real life, she would develop a drinking problem and have to go to therapy for years.
April 5, 2011
I don't know where to begin about how I felt about this story. This is the first Amish story I have ever read and so I wasn't quite sure what to expect but I was blown away! This is about a young Amish girl named Hannah who was in love with a Mennonite named Paul for three years. He was in college but came every summer to the community in which Hannah lived to help his grandmother and Hannah worked for his grandmother and that is how they became friends. He proposed to Hannah before he left for college his senior year. Hannah said yes knowing that this relationship could change everything for her, she was going outside tradition and the affect could be damaging. The day Paul left, Hannah was struck by a huge tragedy that changed her life forever.
This story was so deeply moving that I could not put it down even when I wanted to. It made me cry in so many ways and then also rejoice with things that happened. Hannah was such an amazing character that you instantly loved her and everything about her. Cindy Woodsmall did an amazing job connecting you with the characters. It has rarely happened to me that I went to bed still thinking of the story and woke up to pick it right back up. I couldn't get enough of the heartache, the rejoicing, and the struggles of this amazing woman.
I requested a review copy of the third book of the series, Sister of the Quilt, so I felt like I had to read the first two books in the series first. It's a good thing I did it that way because there is no way I could have waited for a long time to read the final book in this series. When the Heart Cries made my heart cry and made me just want to reach out and help this family and situation. It really was an amazing book. I recommend anyone who enjoys Amish stories to pick this one up, and if you just like Christian romance, with a side of tragedy then you will like this one also! Great read!
This story was so deeply moving that I could not put it down even when I wanted to. It made me cry in so many ways and then also rejoice with things that happened. Hannah was such an amazing character that you instantly loved her and everything about her. Cindy Woodsmall did an amazing job connecting you with the characters. It has rarely happened to me that I went to bed still thinking of the story and woke up to pick it right back up. I couldn't get enough of the heartache, the rejoicing, and the struggles of this amazing woman.
I requested a review copy of the third book of the series, Sister of the Quilt, so I felt like I had to read the first two books in the series first. It's a good thing I did it that way because there is no way I could have waited for a long time to read the final book in this series. When the Heart Cries made my heart cry and made me just want to reach out and help this family and situation. It really was an amazing book. I recommend anyone who enjoys Amish stories to pick this one up, and if you just like Christian romance, with a side of tragedy then you will like this one also! Great read!
May 9, 2021
Never in my life would I have thought to read an Amish romance, but when someone in a Facebook reading group mentioned this genre and I saw lots of great reviews for this book, I thought I'd give it a try... why not try something new? I've always been intrigued by the Amish culture.
Well! It was unputdownable! It was not at all a romance in the sense that I know them to be. During my early university days I devoured romance novels, as they were easy to read in between heavier science textbooks. Lots of Nora Roberts.
In this book we meet Hannah, a 17 yr old Amish girl. In short order we learn she loves Paul, an "Englisher" (non-Amish, outsider). He is Mennonite, but it's still too wild for her Amish family. The novel is not really about her love for Paul and her family's objection, although this theme is woven through the story. The novel explores male/female relationships in all kinds of situations, in the context of the Amish community and its expectations.
The most terrible things that could happen to a woman happen to Hannah. At each turn we see the reactions of the men and women towards her. Like in any culture there are awful people and wonderful people. The author researched the Amish quite a bit while writing this book so I assume much of the behaviour would be true to life. This is what was fascinating to me: learning about the community. At the same time it's hard to reconcile what seems to be a peaceful and simple people with such extremism towards male/female expectations.
It's interesting to read because, as I was reading, it would feel like a historical fiction (when the characters are hand washing laundry and riding around in horse-drawn buggies) but then others in the novel are driving cars, getting snacks at vending machines and working in modern hospitals. I had to remember it takes place in modern times.
Less 1 star because it relied a bit on the trope where characters have all kinds of feelings, thoughts and questions, but keep them bottled up so there were a lot of misunderstandings leading to conflict.
Anyway, a great story and I want to know what happens to Hannah so I'm going to read the next book in the trilogy.
Well! It was unputdownable! It was not at all a romance in the sense that I know them to be. During my early university days I devoured romance novels, as they were easy to read in between heavier science textbooks. Lots of Nora Roberts.
In this book we meet Hannah, a 17 yr old Amish girl. In short order we learn she loves Paul, an "Englisher" (non-Amish, outsider). He is Mennonite, but it's still too wild for her Amish family. The novel is not really about her love for Paul and her family's objection, although this theme is woven through the story. The novel explores male/female relationships in all kinds of situations, in the context of the Amish community and its expectations.
The most terrible things that could happen to a woman happen to Hannah. At each turn we see the reactions of the men and women towards her. Like in any culture there are awful people and wonderful people. The author researched the Amish quite a bit while writing this book so I assume much of the behaviour would be true to life. This is what was fascinating to me: learning about the community. At the same time it's hard to reconcile what seems to be a peaceful and simple people with such extremism towards male/female expectations.
It's interesting to read because, as I was reading, it would feel like a historical fiction (when the characters are hand washing laundry and riding around in horse-drawn buggies) but then others in the novel are driving cars, getting snacks at vending machines and working in modern hospitals. I had to remember it takes place in modern times.
Less 1 star because it relied a bit on the trope where characters have all kinds of feelings, thoughts and questions, but keep them bottled up so there were a lot of misunderstandings leading to conflict.
Anyway, a great story and I want to know what happens to Hannah so I'm going to read the next book in the trilogy.
September 27, 2017
The Good: A sweeping story that is both touching and heartbreaking; great writing; a likable heroine; plenty of Amish charm...what's not to like?
The Bad: Nothing, really; I just save the highest possible rating for absolutely outstanding works.
Conclusion: Amish fiction has sold like hotcakes in recent years; several Christian authors have written multiple novels about the Pennsylvania Dutch and their quaint way of life. Fans of such stories know what to expect from a book like this, and that's what they'll get.
The Bad: Nothing, really; I just save the highest possible rating for absolutely outstanding works.
Conclusion: Amish fiction has sold like hotcakes in recent years; several Christian authors have written multiple novels about the Pennsylvania Dutch and their quaint way of life. Fans of such stories know what to expect from a book like this, and that's what they'll get.
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April 8, 2009This is a strange book. I will not rate it because part of me wants to give it 1 star and part wants to rate it 4. Parts of the story was completely ridiculous and unbelievable and yet it was a page turner. I neglected life by reading it.
I did not agree with the author that this family would turn on each other like this especially in the Ammish religion. I don't have a perfect family but I cannot think of anything they could do that would make me react the way this family did.
The other reason I do not agree with this family's vengence is because of when in real life the man shot and killed those ammish children in the ammish school a few years back, the ammish forgave immediately. I just can't believe they would only treat outsiders this way and not their own flesh and blood.
There were other discrepencies in the book but this was the one I just could not swallow.
It is the first book of three. As soon as I finished this book I went immediately to library to get the other three. However the library was closed for the day, ugh.
I did like how clean and spirtual it is. I liked learning more of the Ammish life.
I did not agree with the author that this family would turn on each other like this especially in the Ammish religion. I don't have a perfect family but I cannot think of anything they could do that would make me react the way this family did.
The other reason I do not agree with this family's vengence is because of when in real life the man shot and killed those ammish children in the ammish school a few years back, the ammish forgave immediately. I just can't believe they would only treat outsiders this way and not their own flesh and blood.
There were other discrepencies in the book but this was the one I just could not swallow.
It is the first book of three. As soon as I finished this book I went immediately to library to get the other three. However the library was closed for the day, ugh.
I did like how clean and spirtual it is. I liked learning more of the Ammish life.
November 9, 2010
I am ambivalent about this book, but I'm completely hooked and have to know how the series ends. It would probably save time if I just picked up the third book and read the last four chapters :)
This is an "Amish" story, but I have a hard time believing their faith and culture were accurately portrayed. The gossip, back-biting, shunning and other unkind and ungodly behaviors bothered me. The "Old Order Amish" are extremely conservative, but I'm disheartened to think any family would shut-out a daughter who has been through such trauma. I found certain character behaviors just ignorant and reactive. I did get frustrated with the book's pacing in places.
HOWEVER, I will probably read the other two books just to find out what happens, and because I'm curious to see if Woodsmall can develop as a writer. The book was well-written enough to hold my interest even through the tedious "religious" parts.
It's really a 2.5 star.
This is an "Amish" story, but I have a hard time believing their faith and culture were accurately portrayed. The gossip, back-biting, shunning and other unkind and ungodly behaviors bothered me. The "Old Order Amish" are extremely conservative, but I'm disheartened to think any family would shut-out a daughter who has been through such trauma. I found certain character behaviors just ignorant and reactive. I did get frustrated with the book's pacing in places.
HOWEVER, I will probably read the other two books just to find out what happens, and because I'm curious to see if Woodsmall can develop as a writer. The book was well-written enough to hold my interest even through the tedious "religious" parts.
It's really a 2.5 star.
November 2, 2010
A difficult, rambling read with more pain than joy.
January 3, 2012
I had a very hard time reading this book. The Amish books I've read, and there haven't been many, always show a loving supportive family who have a strong faith and a bond that seems to be tight. This book, When the Heart Cries, isn't like that. You have an abusive father who controls his family through fear. A wife afraid of her husband and children (even the older ones) afraid of their father.
Hannah Lapp has a desire to escape the Amish community she was raised in and promises to marry a young Mennonite man before he heads off to finish his last year of college. The day he leaves Hannah walks home after telling him goodbye and ends up being viciously raped. Even with that I thought the book would only get better but when she arrives home, in shock, torn and shaking - her mother collapses, her father swears her to silence - so he can decide if he is going to tell the Bishop and tells her it is not their way to seek revenge by contacting the police. Not even to save another girl from going through what Hannah went through.
To top it off, Hannah now feels that Paul isn't going to want her if he finds out what happened to her. She withdraws to the bedroom and the top floor of the house and it isn't until her brother gets into a car-buggy accident and she and her mother go to the hospital to help him that she finds out that she has rights as a woman. Her family turns against her and Hannah is in a tailspin....
I think it's obvious I didn't care for this book. I found it really hard to read - the father more than any other character in the book bothered me and I would of liked to see him taken down a peg or two. Personally I don't think I would put this book out around your kids - unless it's a book that you and your daughters are reading together - but please don't read this until your girls are at least 16 years old. It is definitely not for younger teens - but for older kids it would be a good opportunity to discuss women's rights, safety and what to do in a bad situation.
Hannah Lapp has a desire to escape the Amish community she was raised in and promises to marry a young Mennonite man before he heads off to finish his last year of college. The day he leaves Hannah walks home after telling him goodbye and ends up being viciously raped. Even with that I thought the book would only get better but when she arrives home, in shock, torn and shaking - her mother collapses, her father swears her to silence - so he can decide if he is going to tell the Bishop and tells her it is not their way to seek revenge by contacting the police. Not even to save another girl from going through what Hannah went through.
To top it off, Hannah now feels that Paul isn't going to want her if he finds out what happened to her. She withdraws to the bedroom and the top floor of the house and it isn't until her brother gets into a car-buggy accident and she and her mother go to the hospital to help him that she finds out that she has rights as a woman. Her family turns against her and Hannah is in a tailspin....
I think it's obvious I didn't care for this book. I found it really hard to read - the father more than any other character in the book bothered me and I would of liked to see him taken down a peg or two. Personally I don't think I would put this book out around your kids - unless it's a book that you and your daughters are reading together - but please don't read this until your girls are at least 16 years old. It is definitely not for younger teens - but for older kids it would be a good opportunity to discuss women's rights, safety and what to do in a bad situation.
December 3, 2017
Well, I really messed this series up. Apparently I read #2 and #3 in 2008, and just now finished #1, having no recollection of the other two. The reason I even know this is because this story ended with no ending...just the main character leaving, with her future unknown. So I wanted to see if I had the next books in my cloud storage. That's when I found I not only had them, but had read them. Ugh. I guess I'll have to read them "again" to see what happened to her...again. Lol.
This story haunted me. I had a hard time putting it down because I kept hoping for some sort of happy outcome after this poor Amish girl named Hannah was a victim in an unfortunate incident.
It's a good book. I used to read Amish books a lot, but for the most part quit until just recently. So many of them sounded alike. This was a bit different, so, although hard at times, it was still good. I'm expecting better things, clarifications, answered prayers and relationships to be reconciled in the following books I'm rereading...since, typical for me, I don't remember them at all.
This story haunted me. I had a hard time putting it down because I kept hoping for some sort of happy outcome after this poor Amish girl named Hannah was a victim in an unfortunate incident.
It's a good book. I used to read Amish books a lot, but for the most part quit until just recently. So many of them sounded alike. This was a bit different, so, although hard at times, it was still good. I'm expecting better things, clarifications, answered prayers and relationships to be reconciled in the following books I'm rereading...since, typical for me, I don't remember them at all.
October 17, 2012
My heart complete breaks and repairs through this book. This story is told giving perspective into many of the characters lives and it makes you look back on your own with perspective.
***SPOILER ALERT***
Imagine leading a plain, normal strict life, yet having a desire for a man you know will not receive approval in the eyes of your family your people and struggling to find a way. Then as everything looks like it will work out just find, you're raped by a stranger and nobody believes you. Then when you finally accept the reality of a pregnancy, you lose that too. Only through the grace of God can life be repaired.
Usually I despise books that leave things wanting, but this book was perfect. It ended at just the right time and I look forward to reading a sequel When The Morning Comes.
***SPOILER ALERT***
Imagine leading a plain, normal strict life, yet having a desire for a man you know will not receive approval in the eyes of your family your people and struggling to find a way. Then as everything looks like it will work out just find, you're raped by a stranger and nobody believes you. Then when you finally accept the reality of a pregnancy, you lose that too. Only through the grace of God can life be repaired.
Usually I despise books that leave things wanting, but this book was perfect. It ended at just the right time and I look forward to reading a sequel When The Morning Comes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2009
There was nothing especially exciting or clever about the writing style of this author, but the story line kept me hooked the whole time. Every time I tried to put it down, there would be a new twist and I'd have to read just a little more. This is a series, so the ending was inconclusive, which was a little frustrating--I guess I'll just have to read the next one!
Added Note: Though the story was captivating, I just kept on thinking while reading it that the descriptions of how people acted and reacted probably weren't very accurate. The author is not Amish, and no matter how much research you do, you just don't know a culture and people unless you're really a part of it. That kind of bothered me because the main character's family was not put in a very good light.
Added Note: Though the story was captivating, I just kept on thinking while reading it that the descriptions of how people acted and reacted probably weren't very accurate. The author is not Amish, and no matter how much research you do, you just don't know a culture and people unless you're really a part of it. That kind of bothered me because the main character's family was not put in a very good light.
November 5, 2009
I really liked the idea of these books and the story was pretty good. I was interested in what happened, which kept me reading all three books. The problem I had with them was the poor writing. Some passages were almost laughable. I wish they had been written by a better author and then I think I would have loved them. The story is set in an Amish town with Amish characters and I found it very interesting to learn a little more of their culture, I would have liked to learn even more. I enjoyed the books as they went on and I think my favorite was the third book, When the Soul Mends, Because of all the different characters and cultures that were brought together.
December 15, 2009
I've said before that I think Cindy Woodsmall is one of the better authors out there writing Amish Fiction. When the Heart Cries is the first in a three book series about Hannah Lapp. Hannah has been raised in an Old Order Amish family, but as a teen fell in love with a neighbor, a Mennonite. On the way home, after agreeing to marry him, she is raped and almost run down by a car. Her parents don't call the police, but want her to tell the bishop what happened. She doesn't want to talk about it, and eventually finds out that the experience left her pregnant. What happens to her relationship to her family? Her church? Her fiancee? No spoilers here, but I enjoyed the story.
May 22, 2016
Wow! I enjoyed this so much more than I was expecting! From the opening chapter I was hooked and I pretty much didn't put the book down until I finished it. Hannah had such terrible things happen to her, but at the same time had she been honest about them some of her trouble might have been avoided. I got so irritated at her parents, especially her Daed, but can't say why without spoilers. I'm hoping things will be resolved in the next book, but if not at least by the third and final one. If you enjoy Amish fiction you should definitely love this book, but if you usually don't I think you should give this one a try since it was different than most Amish fiction I've read.
January 25, 2014
This was a very different Amish story for me because everything is not all calm, loving and happy. It delves in some very hard topics that are not handled well. I had a hard time reading about a rape that was hidden from everyone and not acknowledged. The victim was never able to work through it and was shunned for it. Your heart goes out to her and I wanted to reach inside the book and knock some sense into some of the characters.
The ending was not a warm fuzzy either. It really leaves with nothing resolved. I have to read the next one though because I have to know what happens!
Obviously well written to draw me in so entirely.
The ending was not a warm fuzzy either. It really leaves with nothing resolved. I have to read the next one though because I have to know what happens!
Obviously well written to draw me in so entirely.
August 26, 2009
I guess that my experience with the Amish people leads to wonder why this author choose to focus her novel on all of the possible negative stereotypes of this people. I'm sure that the Amish people have their own struggles, but I didn't see any of the wonderful parts of their lifestyle portrayed here at all. The female lead drove me crazy with her lack of judgment in several circumstances which lead to the community having a really poor opinion of her. An ounce of foresight would have made her realize the risks that she took involving several different males in her community.
June 16, 2012
This book was excellent! I thought it was well written and very well told! I have to say though that this book made me Extremely Angry!! Made me Weep like a baby as well! I have to say that I am very blessed to have the family I have and that I am grateful that I am NOT Amish!! I will definitely read this book again and I hope there is another one in this series to come!
February 26, 2012
Favorite line at the end: "She was beginning a journey between her and God. It had to be worth taking."
Lots of trauma in the book in a very short time. Enjoyed learning more about the Amish culture.
Lots of trauma in the book in a very short time. Enjoyed learning more about the Amish culture.
June 20, 2008
excellent read! I am so glad I read Cindy's books. Great series. I am waiting for the 3rd one to this series. It was hard to put down.:)
February 10, 2012
Loved this first book in the trilogy.
November 7, 2017
Seriously.....? I think I'm officially a fan of Amish fiction.
August 13, 2023
Per My Original Rating, I still feel the same way about this book as i did 16 years ago.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Rape and Discriptive Bloody Scenes. If you or someone you know has gone through those i HIGHLY Suggest you dont read those parts of this book.
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was my first time reading this series by Cindy so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i enjoyed this one very much. Loved how she did alot of research from her Amish Friend to write this book. I could really tell that she put her heart and soul into this book especially with the 2 accidents that were mentioned.
The Characters were fun and interesting to read about. Hannah Lapp and Mary Yoder were definately my favorites. I really felt for them with all that they went through.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in the book while reading, especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenal Book 1 in this Contemporary Amish Fiction Series!! Can't wait to read more in this series and by Cindy in the future!!
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Rape and Discriptive Bloody Scenes. If you or someone you know has gone through those i HIGHLY Suggest you dont read those parts of this book.
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was my first time reading this series by Cindy so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i enjoyed this one very much. Loved how she did alot of research from her Amish Friend to write this book. I could really tell that she put her heart and soul into this book especially with the 2 accidents that were mentioned.
The Characters were fun and interesting to read about. Hannah Lapp and Mary Yoder were definately my favorites. I really felt for them with all that they went through.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in the book while reading, especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenal Book 1 in this Contemporary Amish Fiction Series!! Can't wait to read more in this series and by Cindy in the future!!
February 21, 2018
This book is very emotional. I could tell sweet, caring Hannah was digging herself into trouble. There are some Godly lessons shared. This story keeps you tuned in hoping things work out for Hannah. They don't work out as planned in book one, so on to book two.
(I'll post a fuller review soon.) Rating 4.5 for good writing, well developed characters and engaging plot.
(I'll post a fuller review soon.) Rating 4.5 for good writing, well developed characters and engaging plot.
August 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this book and it’s characters. It had many surprises that kept me reading and wanting more. Now I am eager to read the 2nd book in the series.
June 12, 2018
When seventeen-year-old Hannah Lapp chooses to fall in love with someone her very strict father wouldn’t approve of and dares to select her own life path, will it cost her everything that she holds dear? Even though she was raised in a very traditional, Old Order Amish family, Hannah has made the decision to forgo baptism into the Amish church, totally breaking with tradition. She’s also fallen in love with her Mennonite neighbor’s grandson, Paul Waddell. She has managed to keep their relationship a secret for the past three years, and on his last day before returning to college for his senior year, Paul asks Hannah to marry him. Hannah joyfully accepts, knowing full well that marrying outside of the Amish faith will impact her relationship with her family and the members of her community forever. Their plan is to continue to keep their relationship a secret, for now, and after his graduation, Paul will move to the area and try to get a job working with Hannah’s father, and try to win his approval. They know it won’t be easy but are convinced that their love is strong enough for them to make it. But, on the evening of their engagement, as Hannah makes her way back home, the unmentionable happens, an event powerful enough to impact every aspect of Hannah’s life. In just one horrific encounter, everything that she has always believed in and known is completely shattered. As Hannah struggles to process what’s happened, she finds himself embroiled in hearsay and drama, and filled with questions that the Old Ways of her people simply can’t answer. Soon, she’s faced with the very real possibility of not only losing her place in her family and community, but also losing her place in Paul’s heart and life.
This was such a powerful story! It was definitely different from any other Amish fiction that I’ve ever read. There may be some who find the addition of what Hannah experienced to be too dark or too much for this genre, but I think that it’s part of what makes this such a powerful book. Who knows, this may be something that one of the people who reads this may be dealing with and Hannah’s experiences God’s Love and grace in the unimaginable, just may help them. I think that it was dealt with in a very tasteful and understanding manner. To clarify, I’m not saying that Hannah’s family or community, as a whole, handled things at all well, but that the author did a great job in how she wrote this storyline. And, really, there are people who really do end up having their families and loved ones make this horrible experience even worse. My heart broke for her so many times as I read this story. Hannah’s friends, Mary and Matthew, were just amazing. They were genuinely my favorite characters. Mary is so sweet and loyal, the perfect best friend. And, Matthew was so kind, and encouraging, and his loyalty and strength of character were to the extent that many times I wished that he and Hannah would wind up together. It takes a very special person to be willing to be there for a friend and to do the right thing, even if they may face negative consequences because of it. While there were some really horrible things that happened to Hannah, throughout the entire thing, she truly experienced God’s Love and faithfulness, that He really was with her every moment. This story really touched my heart and I know that the rest of the series is going to be just as powerful.
This was such a powerful story! It was definitely different from any other Amish fiction that I’ve ever read. There may be some who find the addition of what Hannah experienced to be too dark or too much for this genre, but I think that it’s part of what makes this such a powerful book. Who knows, this may be something that one of the people who reads this may be dealing with and Hannah’s experiences God’s Love and grace in the unimaginable, just may help them. I think that it was dealt with in a very tasteful and understanding manner. To clarify, I’m not saying that Hannah’s family or community, as a whole, handled things at all well, but that the author did a great job in how she wrote this storyline. And, really, there are people who really do end up having their families and loved ones make this horrible experience even worse. My heart broke for her so many times as I read this story. Hannah’s friends, Mary and Matthew, were just amazing. They were genuinely my favorite characters. Mary is so sweet and loyal, the perfect best friend. And, Matthew was so kind, and encouraging, and his loyalty and strength of character were to the extent that many times I wished that he and Hannah would wind up together. It takes a very special person to be willing to be there for a friend and to do the right thing, even if they may face negative consequences because of it. While there were some really horrible things that happened to Hannah, throughout the entire thing, she truly experienced God’s Love and faithfulness, that He really was with her every moment. This story really touched my heart and I know that the rest of the series is going to be just as powerful.
February 1, 2018
This book pulls the strings on every emotion I have. I laughed, cried, and got mad. I could not put it down until the very last page.
April 24, 2011
The copy that I have of this book is of the complete trilogy, which struck me when I was at the book store recently. I've been wanting to read a similar book "I am Hutterite" but haven't seen it at the bookstore, and haven't done a special order lately, so when I saw this, I thought it looked intriguing and might tie me over while I wait for some (hopefully great) books to be released in May.
The story is of an Amish district in Pennsylvania, from the perspective of a young lady as she moves towards her adulthood within the community. Interestingly, the Pennsylvania dutch (Amish, and Mennonite) have a term for this -rumschpringe - running around - that basically allows adolescents to experience a little more leniency, and are able to "sow their wild oats" without getting into trouble. It is also the period where the adolescents decide whether or not to become members of their church -so they are temporarily outside of church control. Of course, this needs to be taken with a grain of salt, since the local Bishops tend to bring concerns to the parents of the child, and the children don't want to get their parents in trouble. Still, I think it's an interesting concept, and an intriguing subject to write about.
Hannah, the main character, has many questions, and few answers, but as an attractive, successful member of the community, she becomes the target of exaggerated rumors by jealous members of her community - including her own sister. I don't want to give away the details, but I would say that the snarl she finds herself in seems like it can and probably does happen in isolated communities. I hate her father. He's a spineless jelly-fish. It was an absolute page turner, and an enjoyable story.
I would have given this book four stars, but although I have the rest of the books handy, objectively, the first book ends in a cliff hanger, and I hate cliff hangers. They immediately lose a star, so for consistency I dropped this down to three. Looking forward to getting to the next book!
The story is of an Amish district in Pennsylvania, from the perspective of a young lady as she moves towards her adulthood within the community. Interestingly, the Pennsylvania dutch (Amish, and Mennonite) have a term for this -rumschpringe - running around - that basically allows adolescents to experience a little more leniency, and are able to "sow their wild oats" without getting into trouble. It is also the period where the adolescents decide whether or not to become members of their church -so they are temporarily outside of church control. Of course, this needs to be taken with a grain of salt, since the local Bishops tend to bring concerns to the parents of the child, and the children don't want to get their parents in trouble. Still, I think it's an interesting concept, and an intriguing subject to write about.
Hannah, the main character, has many questions, and few answers, but as an attractive, successful member of the community, she becomes the target of exaggerated rumors by jealous members of her community - including her own sister. I don't want to give away the details, but I would say that the snarl she finds herself in seems like it can and probably does happen in isolated communities. I hate her father. He's a spineless jelly-fish. It was an absolute page turner, and an enjoyable story.
I would have given this book four stars, but although I have the rest of the books handy, objectively, the first book ends in a cliff hanger, and I hate cliff hangers. They immediately lose a star, so for consistency I dropped this down to three. Looking forward to getting to the next book!
April 5, 2011
"When Hannah dares to love across the boundaries of tradition, will she lose everything?"
Seventeen year old Amish Hannah Lapp has been seeing twenty one year old Mennonite Paul Waddell behind her parents' backs. On the eve of his return to college for his senior year, Paul asks Hannah to marry him and she agrees. Unfortunately, it all goes downhill from there.
When the Heart Cries is not a happy, breezy Amish novel. I've read a LOT of fiction about the Amish and this is definitely different to the majority of them. If you're looking for a positive Amish read, this isn't it. I actually found it difficult to read at times.
Why? First up, Hannah's family is extremely strict. The 'running around' time is considered a time for an Amish son or daughter to find their spouse, not for experiencing Englisch ways. Secondly, after Hannah experiences a severe trauma, her father demands that she look after her mother who is shocked at what's happened. To our culture, he comes across as very unfeeling. Thirdly, while the Amish actively practice forgiveness, no one in Hannah's community is willing to forgive her for events that unfold after her ordeal. In fact, very few people actually believe her story. Even Paul has doubts that are serious enough to upset their relationship.
Does that mean this is a bad book? Not at all. In fact, it's well written for a first published novel. I've also read other books by Woodsmall and enjoyed them. But it does portray a different kind of Amish to the hard-working, peaceful loving Amish we are used to reading about. If Amish novels have made you think you wouldn't mind being Amish, I can guarantee this will make you think differently! I also have to say that this is the first of the Sisters of the Quilt series, and I've not read the other two books that come after this. For all I know, things could change completely by book three!
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
Seventeen year old Amish Hannah Lapp has been seeing twenty one year old Mennonite Paul Waddell behind her parents' backs. On the eve of his return to college for his senior year, Paul asks Hannah to marry him and she agrees. Unfortunately, it all goes downhill from there.
When the Heart Cries is not a happy, breezy Amish novel. I've read a LOT of fiction about the Amish and this is definitely different to the majority of them. If you're looking for a positive Amish read, this isn't it. I actually found it difficult to read at times.
Why? First up, Hannah's family is extremely strict. The 'running around' time is considered a time for an Amish son or daughter to find their spouse, not for experiencing Englisch ways. Secondly, after Hannah experiences a severe trauma, her father demands that she look after her mother who is shocked at what's happened. To our culture, he comes across as very unfeeling. Thirdly, while the Amish actively practice forgiveness, no one in Hannah's community is willing to forgive her for events that unfold after her ordeal. In fact, very few people actually believe her story. Even Paul has doubts that are serious enough to upset their relationship.
Does that mean this is a bad book? Not at all. In fact, it's well written for a first published novel. I've also read other books by Woodsmall and enjoyed them. But it does portray a different kind of Amish to the hard-working, peaceful loving Amish we are used to reading about. If Amish novels have made you think you wouldn't mind being Amish, I can guarantee this will make you think differently! I also have to say that this is the first of the Sisters of the Quilt series, and I've not read the other two books that come after this. For all I know, things could change completely by book three!
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
November 8, 2013
i feel in love with this book.. Hannah was so amazing. young but so strong, through her trails. i found myself wiping tears through the first 10 chapters, but couldn't seem to put the book down..
would recommend this to anyone.. cindy woodsmall has done a wonderful job, bringing her characters to life.
Ms. Woodsmall's When The Heart Cries was a pleasant surprise; usually I'm not a big fan of Amish fiction because the stories tend to follow a similar pattern so when reading more than one it becomes harder to distinguish one story from another. But here I was pretty well hooked from page one. Hannah Lopp is such a sweet and innocent girl, that she is a heroine easy to like. She is in love with a Mennonite neighbor, Paul. She needs to decide if she wants to marry him and leave her faith, her family and community. After seeing how her family and her community treat her, I think by the end of the book that decision would be easier to make. Hannah is so happy in love, she is taken unawares and the unthinkable happens. From here on, she is shaken to the core. She begins to withdraw and hide away. Her family is not much help in the matter. They are not supportive or very understanding. Maybe that is just the Amish way but it's feels very wrong for parents to not act more caring and compassionate towards a hurting child. In this sense, the story becomes riveting- it's like a bad accident that even though what's happening is horrible and almost inhumane compared to commonly acceptable human behavior you can't help but read on. I am not that familiar with the Amish so I don't know how realistic this portrayal is but it makes for a very interesting read.
Wonderful novel with great characters ..
would recommend this to anyone.. cindy woodsmall has done a wonderful job, bringing her characters to life.
Ms. Woodsmall's When The Heart Cries was a pleasant surprise; usually I'm not a big fan of Amish fiction because the stories tend to follow a similar pattern so when reading more than one it becomes harder to distinguish one story from another. But here I was pretty well hooked from page one. Hannah Lopp is such a sweet and innocent girl, that she is a heroine easy to like. She is in love with a Mennonite neighbor, Paul. She needs to decide if she wants to marry him and leave her faith, her family and community. After seeing how her family and her community treat her, I think by the end of the book that decision would be easier to make. Hannah is so happy in love, she is taken unawares and the unthinkable happens. From here on, she is shaken to the core. She begins to withdraw and hide away. Her family is not much help in the matter. They are not supportive or very understanding. Maybe that is just the Amish way but it's feels very wrong for parents to not act more caring and compassionate towards a hurting child. In this sense, the story becomes riveting- it's like a bad accident that even though what's happening is horrible and almost inhumane compared to commonly acceptable human behavior you can't help but read on. I am not that familiar with the Amish so I don't know how realistic this portrayal is but it makes for a very interesting read.
Wonderful novel with great characters ..
July 1, 2009
Rating: 4 Stars
True to its title, this book will bring tears to the heart. Hannah is from an Old Order Amish family and has fallen in love with Paul, a conservative Mennonite. When Paul proposes, she accepts even though she might lose her family and community. With future plans all set, she is as happy as would be expected. That same night, as she is walking home, she is raped by a stranger. Through out the book, Hannah’s small world slowly unravels as she is forced to keep her tragedy a secret.
This tale is heart retching. As Hannah starts to overcome one tragedy, another one follows, followed by another. However, Hannah is not overly victimized or hateful. She tries her hardest to keep moving forward and endure, even when things are completely grim. As a reader, I have to admire her strength and determination. She never became resentful over her hardships and even learned to love life despite them.
I have to admit that part of me wanted a fairy tale ending. I felt that if anybody deserved a fairy tale, it was Hannah. Although, I know that such an ending would be unrealistic. I also know I would not have liked an all rainbows and sunshines ending. Lucky for me, there’s a sequel, so maybe I’ll get my happy ending after all.
Although sad, this book did keep my coming back. I would pick it up while waiting for pasta to boil for dinner or while waiting five minutes before heading out the door. Somewhere in the last 100 pages, I decided to finish it off in one night. During that time my eyes teared up and I was surrounded by soggy tissues and a small, comforting dog. Overall, I liked this book and am looking forward to the next two books.
True to its title, this book will bring tears to the heart. Hannah is from an Old Order Amish family and has fallen in love with Paul, a conservative Mennonite. When Paul proposes, she accepts even though she might lose her family and community. With future plans all set, she is as happy as would be expected. That same night, as she is walking home, she is raped by a stranger. Through out the book, Hannah’s small world slowly unravels as she is forced to keep her tragedy a secret.
This tale is heart retching. As Hannah starts to overcome one tragedy, another one follows, followed by another. However, Hannah is not overly victimized or hateful. She tries her hardest to keep moving forward and endure, even when things are completely grim. As a reader, I have to admire her strength and determination. She never became resentful over her hardships and even learned to love life despite them.
I have to admit that part of me wanted a fairy tale ending. I felt that if anybody deserved a fairy tale, it was Hannah. Although, I know that such an ending would be unrealistic. I also know I would not have liked an all rainbows and sunshines ending. Lucky for me, there’s a sequel, so maybe I’ll get my happy ending after all.
Although sad, this book did keep my coming back. I would pick it up while waiting for pasta to boil for dinner or while waiting five minutes before heading out the door. Somewhere in the last 100 pages, I decided to finish it off in one night. During that time my eyes teared up and I was surrounded by soggy tissues and a small, comforting dog. Overall, I liked this book and am looking forward to the next two books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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