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Trading Secrets
Back in fifth grade, Micah Knight got an Amish pen pal, and over the years, they've exchanged many letters--and many secrets. At age seventeen, Micah finally has the chance to meet her pen pal face-to-face. The only problem is that because of confusion about her name when the pen pals were assigned, her pen pal was a boy, Zack Miller. And all this time, Micah's never told Zack that she's actually a girl! While she wants nothing more than to experience life on Zack's Amish farm, she's afraid he'll hate her for deceiving him all these years. But she makes up her mind to face the music--and that's where the fun really begins.
Bestselling author Melody Carlson brings young adults another fascinating tale of worlds colliding, secrets being revealed, and friendships forming. Teens will love this story of miscommunication and mishaps along the way to the truth.
Bestselling author Melody Carlson brings young adults another fascinating tale of worlds colliding, secrets being revealed, and friendships forming. Teens will love this story of miscommunication and mishaps along the way to the truth.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
32 people are currently reading
963 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
430 books3,259 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
September 15, 2022
About this book:
“The truth may set you free—but it might also land you in some uncomfortably hot water.
Over the years, Micah Knight has exchanged many letters—and many secrets—with her longtime Amish pen pal, Zach. But Micah’s kept quiet on the secret of all—that fact that despite her name, she’s a girl.
Now Micah finally has the chance to meet her pen pal face-to-face. She wants nothing more than to experience life on Zach’s Amish farm, but she’s more than a little anxious. Will he be angry at her for deceiving him all these years? And will she risk losing his friendship to find something more?”
Series: As of now, no. {But there needs to be a sequel!}
Spiritual Content- Mentions of Zach witnessing to Micah in their letters; Bible reading; Mentions of Church going; Talks about God (but the ‘H’s aren’t capital); Prayers; Mentions of Scriptures;
*Note: A kitchen is described as “h*ll’s kitchen”; “Amish goddess” is said.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘crud’, a ‘darned’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘idiot’s, two ‘skanky’s, three ‘wimpy’s, seven ‘stupid’s; Two Mentions of two hurt animals (that are okay now); A foal is born & then vet stuff (gross; border-line barely-above-not-detailed and semi-detailed); A dog is hit by a car (but is okay; blood; border-line barely-above-not-detailed and semi-detailed).
*Note: Lizzie names her cat Bella & Micah calls her a Tw*light freak.
Sexual Content- two ‘hot’s and five ‘hottie’s; Mentions of crushes & if Micah likes Zach; Micah wears two sport bras under her clothing; Katy pulls out Micah’s undies and says they’re so small (“How can they fit you?”); Jealousy; Rachel flirts; Mentions of a girl kissing a boy.
-Micah Knight
First person P.O.V. of Micah
278 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
I’ve enjoyed Melody Carlson’s other Amish teen books. “Trading Secrets” was interesting & I’d like to see a squeal! I really can’t say anything else because of spoilers. ;)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this review.
“The truth may set you free—but it might also land you in some uncomfortably hot water.
Over the years, Micah Knight has exchanged many letters—and many secrets—with her longtime Amish pen pal, Zach. But Micah’s kept quiet on the secret of all—that fact that despite her name, she’s a girl.
Now Micah finally has the chance to meet her pen pal face-to-face. She wants nothing more than to experience life on Zach’s Amish farm, but she’s more than a little anxious. Will he be angry at her for deceiving him all these years? And will she risk losing his friendship to find something more?”
Series: As of now, no. {But there needs to be a sequel!}
Spiritual Content- Mentions of Zach witnessing to Micah in their letters; Bible reading; Mentions of Church going; Talks about God (but the ‘H’s aren’t capital); Prayers; Mentions of Scriptures;
*Note: A kitchen is described as “h*ll’s kitchen”; “Amish goddess” is said.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘crud’, a ‘darned’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘idiot’s, two ‘skanky’s, three ‘wimpy’s, seven ‘stupid’s; Two Mentions of two hurt animals (that are okay now); A foal is born & then vet stuff (gross; border-line barely-above-not-detailed and semi-detailed); A dog is hit by a car (but is okay; blood; border-line barely-above-not-detailed and semi-detailed).
*Note: Lizzie names her cat Bella & Micah calls her a Tw*light freak.
Sexual Content- two ‘hot’s and five ‘hottie’s; Mentions of crushes & if Micah likes Zach; Micah wears two sport bras under her clothing; Katy pulls out Micah’s undies and says they’re so small (“How can they fit you?”); Jealousy; Rachel flirts; Mentions of a girl kissing a boy.
-Micah Knight
First person P.O.V. of Micah
278 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
I’ve enjoyed Melody Carlson’s other Amish teen books. “Trading Secrets” was interesting & I’d like to see a squeal! I really can’t say anything else because of spoilers. ;)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this review.
January 24, 2015
I really enjoyed this young adult novel. There is a nice mixture of Amish and "English" culture discussed in the book and the straightforward, first-person perspective that is used helped me feel as if I was really in the mind of the teenage girl, Micah. I know that first-person dialogue is a fairly popular way of writing young adult novels.
I enjoyed watching Micah try to fit in with Zach's Amish family. It was refreshing to hear about what she liked and disliked. And Micah was not treated the same way by everyone in the family. Some were unhappy to have her visit, and others were very welcoming. It felt authentic to me.
I think that Micah presents a good role model for girls reading this story. She became frustrated at the way she was being treated by some of the Amish community, however, she controlled her temper and did not say anything unkind or sarcastic toward those who gave her grief.
The storyline is interesting and the author does a good job of portraying Micah and Zach as the older teenagers that they are. They don't always make the right decisions, but they are trying to do so and they are attempting to find out where they both belong in the world. This was a very enjoyable story. And on another note...my fourteen year old daughter borrowed this book from me before I even had a chance to read it and she absolutely loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell, through The Book Club Network, in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I enjoyed watching Micah try to fit in with Zach's Amish family. It was refreshing to hear about what she liked and disliked. And Micah was not treated the same way by everyone in the family. Some were unhappy to have her visit, and others were very welcoming. It felt authentic to me.
I think that Micah presents a good role model for girls reading this story. She became frustrated at the way she was being treated by some of the Amish community, however, she controlled her temper and did not say anything unkind or sarcastic toward those who gave her grief.
The storyline is interesting and the author does a good job of portraying Micah and Zach as the older teenagers that they are. They don't always make the right decisions, but they are trying to do so and they are attempting to find out where they both belong in the world. This was a very enjoyable story. And on another note...my fourteen year old daughter borrowed this book from me before I even had a chance to read it and she absolutely loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell, through The Book Club Network, in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 6, 2015
This was another fantastic book by Melody Carlson. In one scene, I even cried a little. I will pick up some of her other Amish fiction later on this year.
January 26, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am not really into the Amish Fiction thing, but having read another Melody Carlson book that had to do with the Amish, I figured I'd give this one a try. I had liked the first one, so I assumed this one would be at least okay too. I SHOULD NOT HAVE DONE THAT.
There are a ton of problems with this book; characters, plot, themes...it was a struggle to read.
First off, none of the characters are likeable. Well, I take that back. Zach's sister was likeable, though not all that exciting as a character. But aside from her, I didn't like any single character in the book.
First, we have Micah. Her problem is that she comes off as a bit stupid. First off, her plan that she hatches in the beginning of the book to dress up as a boy to meet Zach was horrible. Why would you do that. Why. She ended up causing only more trouble for herself. Then, just because she finds Zach a wee bit attractive, she starts wondering what would happen if he asked her to marry him. She also wishes to be Amish just so Zach would be attracted to her. Honey, no. First off, you've known this guy for like a week. Second off, becoming Amish for a guy...that's a recipe for disaster.
Zach's mother is a total witch. She insults Micah every other sentence of the book and just seems bitter overall. I almost felt sorry for Micah, because even though she wasn't the smartest, she really did try to get this vindictive woman to like her. Zach's father wasn't much better. He was portrayed as very stuck in his ways.
Enter Rachel. She is very snarky, and painted as trying too hard to win Zach's love. She didn't seem to like Micah very much, but when you are a star baker/cook and you meet a girl who literally thinks creaming the ingredients means you put cream in them I suppose I could see why you don't like her, let alone the fact that she's crushing on the guy you want.
The plot seemed very boring. Micah tried to leave that Amish farm at least twice, and somehow just kept coming back to lengthen interactions between her and Zach, it seemed, and it annoyed me.
Plus, almost all Amish people in this book were seen as judgemental and stuck in their ways. I felt like it was a bit dangerous, and I assume that was not the author's attention, but there were very few positively portrayed Amish.
I really did not care for this book. There were no redeeming qualities in it; the characters were the low point of this book for me, but the other factors weren't great either. Considering I've read books by Melody Carlson before that I've liked, I won't write her off as an author I'll read, but I don't think I'll be reading more of her Amish fiction books. Or anyone's Amish fiction books for that matter.
I am not really into the Amish Fiction thing, but having read another Melody Carlson book that had to do with the Amish, I figured I'd give this one a try. I had liked the first one, so I assumed this one would be at least okay too. I SHOULD NOT HAVE DONE THAT.
There are a ton of problems with this book; characters, plot, themes...it was a struggle to read.
First off, none of the characters are likeable. Well, I take that back. Zach's sister was likeable, though not all that exciting as a character. But aside from her, I didn't like any single character in the book.
First, we have Micah. Her problem is that she comes off as a bit stupid. First off, her plan that she hatches in the beginning of the book to dress up as a boy to meet Zach was horrible. Why would you do that. Why. She ended up causing only more trouble for herself. Then, just because she finds Zach a wee bit attractive, she starts wondering what would happen if he asked her to marry him. She also wishes to be Amish just so Zach would be attracted to her. Honey, no. First off, you've known this guy for like a week. Second off, becoming Amish for a guy...that's a recipe for disaster.
Zach's mother is a total witch. She insults Micah every other sentence of the book and just seems bitter overall. I almost felt sorry for Micah, because even though she wasn't the smartest, she really did try to get this vindictive woman to like her. Zach's father wasn't much better. He was portrayed as very stuck in his ways.
Enter Rachel. She is very snarky, and painted as trying too hard to win Zach's love. She didn't seem to like Micah very much, but when you are a star baker/cook and you meet a girl who literally thinks creaming the ingredients means you put cream in them I suppose I could see why you don't like her, let alone the fact that she's crushing on the guy you want.
The plot seemed very boring. Micah tried to leave that Amish farm at least twice, and somehow just kept coming back to lengthen interactions between her and Zach, it seemed, and it annoyed me.
Plus, almost all Amish people in this book were seen as judgemental and stuck in their ways. I felt like it was a bit dangerous, and I assume that was not the author's attention, but there were very few positively portrayed Amish.
I really did not care for this book. There were no redeeming qualities in it; the characters were the low point of this book for me, but the other factors weren't great either. Considering I've read books by Melody Carlson before that I've liked, I won't write her off as an author I'll read, but I don't think I'll be reading more of her Amish fiction books. Or anyone's Amish fiction books for that matter.
July 23, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
When I come across any book centering on pen pals, it immediately has my attention. I love the idea of writing letters, so those types of plots always fascinate me – and Melody Carlson’s Trading Secrets is no exception. Though not too many actual letters are involved within the story, it does explore the antics of two long-term pen pals meeting each other in person. It was an entertaining and fun read with spiritual themes of faith, uncertainty and the future, and I especially liked seeing how the different cultures clashed and connected. I think anyone looking for a sweet, clean YA read will enjoy Carlson’s Trading Secrets. It’s a delight.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of Trading Secrets and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
When I come across any book centering on pen pals, it immediately has my attention. I love the idea of writing letters, so those types of plots always fascinate me – and Melody Carlson’s Trading Secrets is no exception. Though not too many actual letters are involved within the story, it does explore the antics of two long-term pen pals meeting each other in person. It was an entertaining and fun read with spiritual themes of faith, uncertainty and the future, and I especially liked seeing how the different cultures clashed and connected. I think anyone looking for a sweet, clean YA read will enjoy Carlson’s Trading Secrets. It’s a delight.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of Trading Secrets and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
May 29, 2023
I saw this book in a store while visiting Ohio, in Holmes County. It was with all the other Amish Inspirational fiction and the storyline looked cute. I had no idea it was for teens until I started reading it. This book was interesting and educational and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Of course, since it was written for teens, it was an easy and quick read. I don’t want to give any spoilers so I won’t say more about the story, except I loved both Micah and her dad’s relationship. I loved her dad’s trust in his daughter and their concern for others. I would recommend this book, even for adult reading.
September 7, 2015
*Book Description*
Micah McKnight had an Amish pen pal that she has been writing letters to since the fifth grade. Micah's friend Lizzie heard that Micah's pen pal wanted to know if he could come visit his pen pal that he has been writing for awhile and has assumed all this time. that Micah was a boy. when plans of Zach coming to visit Micah got canceled Zach asked Micah if he wanted to come to visit him on his Amish farm on Micah's spring break. Micah accepted Zach's invitation to come meet him. when Micah gets there he is welcomed into the Amish home( they don't know Micah is a girl yet) was shown around invited for dinner. At dinner Micah was asked to remove the baseball cap and that's when the truth of Micah being a girl came out, Zach then didn't want anything to do with Micah he wanted her out of his house. Then Zach's parents weren't happy neither.
Micah spent the night at Zach's house. The next day while Zach and his family was away at church Micah had planned on getting the bus back home to her house, but before she left she wrote a letter to Zach, his sister's and Zach's parents. When she had made it into town she had missed the bus. Micah had decided to have dinner in town and was going to get a hotel room when Katy Zach's sister spied Micah in town and talked her into going back home with Katy. Katy had Micah hide in the loft until the next morning but that didn't work out all that well because Zach decided to stay out in the barn with Molly the mare that was about to deliver a colt. Micah heard a lot of thrashing being made by the horse and Molly had Zach pinned to the back of the stable. Micah climbed down from the loft to help Zach with Molly, but Zach wasn't to pleased that Micah was hiding in the loft. Molly had given birth to a baby colt that night and Micah had to call her uncle that was a vet because Molly wasn't doing well after the birth of her baby colt. The vet came the next day and stated that Molly needed antibiotics to get well. Micah toke the last of the money she had to help with the vet Bill but Zach wasn't to happy about that idea. Micah still gave the vet her money, Micah felt that Molly was worth saving even though Molly could not be the brood mare anymore due to age. Zach choose to go to Micah's home with her. Zach had gotten an opportunity to ride in a plane which is not something normal for an Amish boy.
* what I Liked*
I liked the idea that Micah decided to tell the truth, which shows loyalty, honesty. I know it was hard for Micah to tell the truth about being a girl.I happy that Zach was there for Micah around the time of Micah's mothers death. Zach had finally forgave Micah and now he understands why she did what she did. Honest is the best policy in all situations.
*what I didn't like*
I didn't like that Micah's best friend Lizzie was to interested in boys. instead of being there to help Micah through her losing her Mother.I didn't like the way that Zach reacted to Micah after finding out that, Micah was a girl not a boy.
* my rating*
5 stars
I rated it 5 stars because it is well thought out, and I think that it speaks out to young adults to be honest and loyal. Which is a very good characteristic to have. I really enjoyed reading about Micah and Zach's story. I would recommend it to all young adults and adults.
* This was given to me by Revell publishing group.This review is in my own words and I was not compensated in any other way.
Micah McKnight had an Amish pen pal that she has been writing letters to since the fifth grade. Micah's friend Lizzie heard that Micah's pen pal wanted to know if he could come visit his pen pal that he has been writing for awhile and has assumed all this time. that Micah was a boy. when plans of Zach coming to visit Micah got canceled Zach asked Micah if he wanted to come to visit him on his Amish farm on Micah's spring break. Micah accepted Zach's invitation to come meet him. when Micah gets there he is welcomed into the Amish home( they don't know Micah is a girl yet) was shown around invited for dinner. At dinner Micah was asked to remove the baseball cap and that's when the truth of Micah being a girl came out, Zach then didn't want anything to do with Micah he wanted her out of his house. Then Zach's parents weren't happy neither.
Micah spent the night at Zach's house. The next day while Zach and his family was away at church Micah had planned on getting the bus back home to her house, but before she left she wrote a letter to Zach, his sister's and Zach's parents. When she had made it into town she had missed the bus. Micah had decided to have dinner in town and was going to get a hotel room when Katy Zach's sister spied Micah in town and talked her into going back home with Katy. Katy had Micah hide in the loft until the next morning but that didn't work out all that well because Zach decided to stay out in the barn with Molly the mare that was about to deliver a colt. Micah heard a lot of thrashing being made by the horse and Molly had Zach pinned to the back of the stable. Micah climbed down from the loft to help Zach with Molly, but Zach wasn't to pleased that Micah was hiding in the loft. Molly had given birth to a baby colt that night and Micah had to call her uncle that was a vet because Molly wasn't doing well after the birth of her baby colt. The vet came the next day and stated that Molly needed antibiotics to get well. Micah toke the last of the money she had to help with the vet Bill but Zach wasn't to happy about that idea. Micah still gave the vet her money, Micah felt that Molly was worth saving even though Molly could not be the brood mare anymore due to age. Zach choose to go to Micah's home with her. Zach had gotten an opportunity to ride in a plane which is not something normal for an Amish boy.
* what I Liked*
I liked the idea that Micah decided to tell the truth, which shows loyalty, honesty. I know it was hard for Micah to tell the truth about being a girl.I happy that Zach was there for Micah around the time of Micah's mothers death. Zach had finally forgave Micah and now he understands why she did what she did. Honest is the best policy in all situations.
*what I didn't like*
I didn't like that Micah's best friend Lizzie was to interested in boys. instead of being there to help Micah through her losing her Mother.I didn't like the way that Zach reacted to Micah after finding out that, Micah was a girl not a boy.
* my rating*
5 stars
I rated it 5 stars because it is well thought out, and I think that it speaks out to young adults to be honest and loyal. Which is a very good characteristic to have. I really enjoyed reading about Micah and Zach's story. I would recommend it to all young adults and adults.
* This was given to me by Revell publishing group.This review is in my own words and I was not compensated in any other way.
October 31, 2014
The picture on the front of this book drew me in, and the concept also intrigued me. When the story unfolds we have a young girl/woman going to visit her Amish pen pal, which she has been corresponding with for a number of years. Her name is Micah, and you can guess what Zack Miller thinks, yes, and she never corrected him during the several years of letters going back and forth.
I can just picture her as she arrives at the farm dressed as a boy. When I think of the strict Amish culture, it does bring a chuckle to think of this girl and her using a fake voice while addressing them. I can just picture their reaction when they find out the boy is actually a girl.
You will wonder if the friendship/bond that has developed over the years between these you people, will be able to survive the deceit. Also can a girl get away working as a boy, and for how long?
Then we have a strict Amish mother, who decides it is time for her son to find an Amish wife, to what extreme will she go to? Just wait until you are busy eating a meal in this house!
Think as you go along in the story your going to find out just who was in for a culture shock. Between the parents and the teens, all are in for a real change.
I loved this book, and look forward to more by this author!
I received this book through Revell Publishing Book Reviewers Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
I can just picture her as she arrives at the farm dressed as a boy. When I think of the strict Amish culture, it does bring a chuckle to think of this girl and her using a fake voice while addressing them. I can just picture their reaction when they find out the boy is actually a girl.
You will wonder if the friendship/bond that has developed over the years between these you people, will be able to survive the deceit. Also can a girl get away working as a boy, and for how long?
Then we have a strict Amish mother, who decides it is time for her son to find an Amish wife, to what extreme will she go to? Just wait until you are busy eating a meal in this house!
Think as you go along in the story your going to find out just who was in for a culture shock. Between the parents and the teens, all are in for a real change.
I loved this book, and look forward to more by this author!
I received this book through Revell Publishing Book Reviewers Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 22, 2014
I loved this sweet YA novel about two teenagers – Amish Zach and Englisch Micah. They start out as pen pals, have a big misunderstanding, and end up as friends (with a hint of maybe more).
This is a perfect, clean, appropriate relationship story for ages 11 and up. Carlson makes the dialogue come to life, and shows authentic teenage emotions and behavior. I was invested in Zach and Micah’s relationship. I wanted their friendship to work out. Carlson provided a wonderful balance of heartbreak, emotional baggage, family obstacles; and authoritative understanding, blessings, and reaping what you sow.
I especially enjoyed the contrast in the dynamics between Zach/his mom and Micah/her dad. Zach’s actions showed integrity and courage! And even despite teenage angst, mutual respect and a happily ever after won in the end.
Trading Secrets is a fun, smart, contemporary take on the Amish and their relationship to the Englisch world. Its characters are relatable and flawlessly written. It’s neither preachy nor smarmy. I certainly hope this is the beginning of a series so I can keep reading – and then place on the coffee table for my pre-teen daughters.
NetGalley provided me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a perfect, clean, appropriate relationship story for ages 11 and up. Carlson makes the dialogue come to life, and shows authentic teenage emotions and behavior. I was invested in Zach and Micah’s relationship. I wanted their friendship to work out. Carlson provided a wonderful balance of heartbreak, emotional baggage, family obstacles; and authoritative understanding, blessings, and reaping what you sow.
I especially enjoyed the contrast in the dynamics between Zach/his mom and Micah/her dad. Zach’s actions showed integrity and courage! And even despite teenage angst, mutual respect and a happily ever after won in the end.
Trading Secrets is a fun, smart, contemporary take on the Amish and their relationship to the Englisch world. Its characters are relatable and flawlessly written. It’s neither preachy nor smarmy. I certainly hope this is the beginning of a series so I can keep reading – and then place on the coffee table for my pre-teen daughters.
NetGalley provided me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2014
I don’t normally read Amish fiction, but this book sounded interesting and I’ve liked other books written by Melody Carlson, so I picked this one to read. I really liked it! It did seem a bit unrealistic, but it was a sweet coming of age story for young adults with themes of friendship, trust, and truthfulness. It was interesting to read about some of the Amish culture and I liked reading about the characters’ reactions to each other’s lifestyles and the contrasts shown between the Amish and English lifestyles. I also liked that the story was mainly about friendship instead of romance. I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it for teens. I would also love to see a sequel!
Some of the questionable content: References to actors and movies including Twilight; crushes, flirting, and mentions of kissing; Micah and Lizzie watch Amish reality shows; mentions of girls’ undergarments
Language included: stupid; dumb; 1 crud; skanky; “Amish goddess”; hottie and hot used multiple times in reference to guys’ looks
* I received this book for free from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
Some of the questionable content: References to actors and movies including Twilight; crushes, flirting, and mentions of kissing; Micah and Lizzie watch Amish reality shows; mentions of girls’ undergarments
Language included: stupid; dumb; 1 crud; skanky; “Amish goddess”; hottie and hot used multiple times in reference to guys’ looks
* I received this book for free from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
December 20, 2014
What a hope giving book! The characters were down to earth and easy to like. When you start writing to a pen pal you never know what will happen. Will they write in return, ignore your letters, or become more than a pen pal? Micah has not shared the complete truth with her Amish pen pal Zack but soon discovers that it is a painful mistake. Her world and the Amish world meet in a challenging and uncomfortable way. She learns much about life through this experience and becomes a more honest person. Zack has secrets of his own. As Micah and Zack travel through to finding the truth for both of them they mature and land with life changing realities.
I enjoyed this quick read and recommend it. I felt it would be great for the young adult reading community.
I received this book from NetGalley and have given an honest review.
I enjoyed this quick read and recommend it. I felt it would be great for the young adult reading community.
I received this book from NetGalley and have given an honest review.
September 18, 2014
There are no easy answers in life, and no easy solutions, but this YA book about friendship, honesty, and the importance of being true to yourself explores what happens when long-time penpals finally meet and discover the realities about each others' lives... and a secret that may end their friendship.
The faith element is much more lowkey than in some other books by the same author, and shouldn't be offputting to nonreligious readers.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The faith element is much more lowkey than in some other books by the same author, and shouldn't be offputting to nonreligious readers.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2015
This was a really sweet story of two friends who've written to each other for years. This was a very clean book and it was very refreshing to read it. I've read quite a few books by Melody Carlson and each book I've read of hers as not been disappointing.
January 3, 2015
Loved this one.
July 6, 2024
3.5 stars
Hmm. The idea of this book was VERY interesting. But something was off.
The plot felt almost fake, (I know, it's fiction so it IS fake), but it felt very unrealistic.
I highly doubt a teen girl would come up with a plan so bad as to go to her friends house disguised as a boy, and then just blurt it out over dinner that she's in disguise. Like, really?
And then in the process she nearly loses her friendship with her pen pal, and they're not on speaking terms.
No. *laughs* Just no.
And I don't know how this book got the romance tag. I didn't mind, in fact, I think the focus on friendship was better. And her friendship with Zachs little sister is so cute!!
I don't have many other thoughts on this book, but it wouldn't make my favorites list. I don't know of I'd read more Melody Carlson. But here are a few pros.
-the plot is very fast paced and a good, quick read for if you need something light and kind of fake feeling, I guess?
✅Great Christian morals
✅A trip to an Amish farm!!
Age recommendation: 12+
CW/TW: One embrace, a few mentions of "secretly crushing on someone and secret crushes", a mention of a sports bra, Micahs best friend says that she has great legs and should wear more dresses, mentions of cute guys, some mild noticing handsome guys, Katy says that Micas underwear are so small", Micah says that they stretch, mentions of exes, boyfriends, and girlfriends, some talk about kissing, Katy and her sister giggle about "what Zach is doing in the kitchen with Rachel" (nothing happened, they imply that he was kissing her), blushes, wondering if an amish girl and a guy alone "have anything to be embarrassed about" (they don't), some jealousy, Zach and Micah are alone in the apartment together but nothing happens
A horse gives birth and nearly dies, some semi detailed descriptions about the birth and blood, remembering her dead mother, (the doctors couldn't cure her so she died), A few wimpys and wimps, a stupid, A mention of someone being a phone addict, a mention of Zach's house being like hells kitchen, joking about getting killed by getting chopped into little pieces with an axe, mentions of drinking, A mention of divorce, A dog is hit by a car and goes into surgery, not shown on the page.
Note: A mention of twilight and a twilight freak
Hmm. The idea of this book was VERY interesting. But something was off.
The plot felt almost fake, (I know, it's fiction so it IS fake), but it felt very unrealistic.
I highly doubt a teen girl would come up with a plan so bad as to go to her friends house disguised as a boy, and then just blurt it out over dinner that she's in disguise. Like, really?
And then in the process she nearly loses her friendship with her pen pal, and they're not on speaking terms.
No. *laughs* Just no.
And I don't know how this book got the romance tag. I didn't mind, in fact, I think the focus on friendship was better. And her friendship with Zachs little sister is so cute!!
I don't have many other thoughts on this book, but it wouldn't make my favorites list. I don't know of I'd read more Melody Carlson. But here are a few pros.
-the plot is very fast paced and a good, quick read for if you need something light and kind of fake feeling, I guess?
✅Great Christian morals
✅A trip to an Amish farm!!
Age recommendation: 12+
CW/TW: One embrace, a few mentions of "secretly crushing on someone and secret crushes", a mention of a sports bra, Micahs best friend says that she has great legs and should wear more dresses, mentions of cute guys, some mild noticing handsome guys, Katy says that Micas underwear are so small", Micah says that they stretch, mentions of exes, boyfriends, and girlfriends, some talk about kissing, Katy and her sister giggle about "what Zach is doing in the kitchen with Rachel" (nothing happened, they imply that he was kissing her), blushes, wondering if an amish girl and a guy alone "have anything to be embarrassed about" (they don't), some jealousy, Zach and Micah are alone in the apartment together but nothing happens
A horse gives birth and nearly dies, some semi detailed descriptions about the birth and blood, remembering her dead mother, (the doctors couldn't cure her so she died), A few wimpys and wimps, a stupid, A mention of someone being a phone addict, a mention of Zach's house being like hells kitchen, joking about getting killed by getting chopped into little pieces with an axe, mentions of drinking, A mention of divorce, A dog is hit by a car and goes into surgery, not shown on the page.
Note: A mention of twilight and a twilight freak
October 15, 2014
This review is filled with spoilers in a fairly detailed summary and in my reflections upon reading the novel. I've omitted a few sentences here on Goodreads, but the full version can be found on my blog.(The link is below at the bottom.)
Trading Secrets, a young adult novel by Melody Carlson, is the story about Micah Knight, a seventeen year old, and Zach Miller, who have been penpals since they were both eleven. Zach is Amish, while Micah has grown up in a modern, contemporary "English" (non-Amish) community. However, the penpals have shared many things with each other over many letters, and Micah is grateful for Zach's friendship especially with the latter helping the former in matters of faith and through some dark times, especially when Micah's mother died.
However, with spring break approaching, Zach writes and asks if he could visit and stay with Micah's family. This presents a huge problem for Micah, because Zach has been completely unaware throughout their correspondence that Micah is actually a girl. The book presents a plausible reason for this; our protagonists became penpals through a letter writing exchange between an Amish class and English class; however, Zach's teacher removed the photographs that had been attached to the letters from the English class. With Micah's unusual name, it was not surprising that Zach assumed that Micah was a boy. For all these years, Micah has not corrected him from that assumption, because of her fear that he would stop corresponding with her.
Micah wins a bit of a reprieve when Zach writes again, and informs her that his father requires his help to work on the family farm. Since he cannot visit her, would she like to visit him on the farm and help him with the spring planting instead?
At this point in the novel, I could hear myself telling Micah to just not do it, but our intrepid teenage girl does! She also visits Zach's family disguised as a boy, but that subterfuge does not last for very long. On the very first day of the visit, after Zach's father conducts a devotional on the importance of honesty from the book of Proverbs, Micah reveals herself to be a girl, stating that she did so in order to meet Zach, because it was something that she had wanted to do for such a long time. Zach does not handle this revelation very well; he is furious with Micah and tells her to leave.
After revealing her secret, Micah tries to hop on the bus to return home, but due to circumstances, is not able to leave immediately, and is persuaded by one of Zach's sisters to stay with the Miller family until she can find her way home.
The rest of Micah's stay is like the reverse of watching "Amish in the City," the reality television show that depicts Amish youth experiencing rumspringa in an urban setting. In Micah's case, she is now immersed in the Amish lifestyle. Unfortunately, she does not find a friend with Mrs. Miller, Zach's mother, and is made to feel inadequate by Rachel Yoder, an Amish girl who hopes to catch Zach's eye. Since Micah does not feel welcome in the Miller's house, she goes to help Zach and his father outside with the farm work. As the days pass, she is able to mend bridges with Zach and eventually wins over Zach's father's respect for her willingness to do hard work. Micah also learns that Zach's heart is not in working on the family farm; he loves working with and caring for animals instead. Zach is also struggling with his family's expectations for him; they expect him to help with the farm and also to marry Rachel, but he doesn't have the desire to do either of these things.
Micah is finally able to leave Zach's community when her father, a pilot, comes by in his plane to take her home. However, Zach also leaves with them, but realizes after a few days in the English world, that it would be difficult for an Amish person to survive there with limited skills and education. However, during this time, he meets Micah's Uncle Brad, a veterinarian.
Here's where I confess that I read this novel from the perspective of a mother who worries a bit about her children's safety especially if they would be staying overnight for a week at some stranger's place. I probably wouldn't have allowed Micah to go alone on such a trip without having some previous personal contact with the family that she would stay with or without knowing that this family was screened in some sort of official capacity by an authority that I could trust. But of course, in this story, Micah does not have a mother, and Micah's father seems to be a lot more relaxed about the whole matter with Micah visiting Zach than I would have personally felt comfortable with, even though Micah is 17 and already in her senior year of high school.
I was also cringing at how Micah ended up stranded in Zach's community for the week, as she first missed the bus because she arrived too late for return trip on that first day, and also when she ran out of funds later on and could not purchase the bus fare home. She needed to wait until her father could fly out to pick her up, which took several days. This is a bit foreign to my own experience of growing up. If I were Micah, at that age, my parents would have made sure that there were already contingency plans in place either to wire money or to retrieve me as quickly as possible should the need arise. They would have definitely been more accessible for emergency contact than how Mr. Knight appeared in this story.
Having said that, I did think that it was still completely plausible for the plot to unfold as it did in Trading Secrets. I could see and imagine a gutsy 17 year old acting as Micah did to fulfil her desire in meeting a boy that she had a crush on. Micah's voice and thoughts sounded youthful, immature and impulsive enough to go ahead and carry out her plans even though the decision making and execution of those plans were a bit questionable. She is mature enough to realize that she is not in love with Zach, and I would say that this novel didn't really seem like much of a romance, even though Zach is pursued by Rachel. Instead, the focus on the plot turns to the choices that Zach needs to make; will he remain with his Amish community or will he attempt to pursue his own dreams for a different future than the one his family expects for him to have?
I wonder if Ms. Carlson will write a sequel if she hasn't already. I would love to find out what happens to Micah and Zach. Micah seems to have a romantic attraction to Zach that she may not be quite ready to acknowledge, but Zach seems rather clueless to the interest of the females surrounding him.
I enjoyed reading this novel, and would probably consider reading more of Melody Carlson's work.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of Trading Secrets from NetGalley in exchange for a review. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://whatiscbreading.blogspot.ca
Trading Secrets, a young adult novel by Melody Carlson, is the story about Micah Knight, a seventeen year old, and Zach Miller, who have been penpals since they were both eleven. Zach is Amish, while Micah has grown up in a modern, contemporary "English" (non-Amish) community. However, the penpals have shared many things with each other over many letters, and Micah is grateful for Zach's friendship especially with the latter helping the former in matters of faith and through some dark times, especially when Micah's mother died.
However, with spring break approaching, Zach writes and asks if he could visit and stay with Micah's family. This presents a huge problem for Micah, because Zach has been completely unaware throughout their correspondence that Micah is actually a girl. The book presents a plausible reason for this; our protagonists became penpals through a letter writing exchange between an Amish class and English class; however, Zach's teacher removed the photographs that had been attached to the letters from the English class. With Micah's unusual name, it was not surprising that Zach assumed that Micah was a boy. For all these years, Micah has not corrected him from that assumption, because of her fear that he would stop corresponding with her.
Micah wins a bit of a reprieve when Zach writes again, and informs her that his father requires his help to work on the family farm. Since he cannot visit her, would she like to visit him on the farm and help him with the spring planting instead?
At this point in the novel, I could hear myself telling Micah to just not do it, but our intrepid teenage girl does! She also visits Zach's family disguised as a boy, but that subterfuge does not last for very long. On the very first day of the visit, after Zach's father conducts a devotional on the importance of honesty from the book of Proverbs, Micah reveals herself to be a girl, stating that she did so in order to meet Zach, because it was something that she had wanted to do for such a long time. Zach does not handle this revelation very well; he is furious with Micah and tells her to leave.
After revealing her secret, Micah tries to hop on the bus to return home, but due to circumstances, is not able to leave immediately, and is persuaded by one of Zach's sisters to stay with the Miller family until she can find her way home.
The rest of Micah's stay is like the reverse of watching "Amish in the City," the reality television show that depicts Amish youth experiencing rumspringa in an urban setting. In Micah's case, she is now immersed in the Amish lifestyle. Unfortunately, she does not find a friend with Mrs. Miller, Zach's mother, and is made to feel inadequate by Rachel Yoder, an Amish girl who hopes to catch Zach's eye. Since Micah does not feel welcome in the Miller's house, she goes to help Zach and his father outside with the farm work. As the days pass, she is able to mend bridges with Zach and eventually wins over Zach's father's respect for her willingness to do hard work. Micah also learns that Zach's heart is not in working on the family farm; he loves working with and caring for animals instead. Zach is also struggling with his family's expectations for him; they expect him to help with the farm and also to marry Rachel, but he doesn't have the desire to do either of these things.
Micah is finally able to leave Zach's community when her father, a pilot, comes by in his plane to take her home. However, Zach also leaves with them, but realizes after a few days in the English world, that it would be difficult for an Amish person to survive there with limited skills and education. However, during this time, he meets Micah's Uncle Brad, a veterinarian.
Here's where I confess that I read this novel from the perspective of a mother who worries a bit about her children's safety especially if they would be staying overnight for a week at some stranger's place. I probably wouldn't have allowed Micah to go alone on such a trip without having some previous personal contact with the family that she would stay with or without knowing that this family was screened in some sort of official capacity by an authority that I could trust. But of course, in this story, Micah does not have a mother, and Micah's father seems to be a lot more relaxed about the whole matter with Micah visiting Zach than I would have personally felt comfortable with, even though Micah is 17 and already in her senior year of high school.
I was also cringing at how Micah ended up stranded in Zach's community for the week, as she first missed the bus because she arrived too late for return trip on that first day, and also when she ran out of funds later on and could not purchase the bus fare home. She needed to wait until her father could fly out to pick her up, which took several days. This is a bit foreign to my own experience of growing up. If I were Micah, at that age, my parents would have made sure that there were already contingency plans in place either to wire money or to retrieve me as quickly as possible should the need arise. They would have definitely been more accessible for emergency contact than how Mr. Knight appeared in this story.
Having said that, I did think that it was still completely plausible for the plot to unfold as it did in Trading Secrets. I could see and imagine a gutsy 17 year old acting as Micah did to fulfil her desire in meeting a boy that she had a crush on. Micah's voice and thoughts sounded youthful, immature and impulsive enough to go ahead and carry out her plans even though the decision making and execution of those plans were a bit questionable. She is mature enough to realize that she is not in love with Zach, and I would say that this novel didn't really seem like much of a romance, even though Zach is pursued by Rachel. Instead, the focus on the plot turns to the choices that Zach needs to make; will he remain with his Amish community or will he attempt to pursue his own dreams for a different future than the one his family expects for him to have?
I wonder if Ms. Carlson will write a sequel if she hasn't already. I would love to find out what happens to Micah and Zach. Micah seems to have a romantic attraction to Zach that she may not be quite ready to acknowledge, but Zach seems rather clueless to the interest of the females surrounding him.
I enjoyed reading this novel, and would probably consider reading more of Melody Carlson's work.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of Trading Secrets from NetGalley in exchange for a review. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://whatiscbreading.blogspot.ca
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2018
Since grade five Micah had had a penpal, Zach, who is Amish. But what Zach did not realize then, something that seemed unimportant so long ago, is that Micah a girl. And now that Zach wants to come for a visit, this oversight from the past suddenly assumes huge proportions.
To complicate matters, at the last minute Zach’s father decides he needs his son’s help with the planting and so Zach invites Micah to the farm instead, with a warning that it might be a lot of work for an English boy.
What on earth can Micah do? Her penpal Zach is, in many ways, her best friend....
This lighthearted teen book filled some difficult hours with laughter, joy, and the wholesomeness of Melody Carlson’s writing. I loved the characters, except for Zach’s mother whom I felt sorry for and the determined Rachel, who was attempting to test the idea that kissing makes a young man think about marriage. I loved Zach’s sparkly sister Katy, the scenery, the humor, the plot, and, especially, Micah.
This was a delightful story in a Christian context. Not perfect Christianity, by any means, but a clear view of how we live out our lives, trying to serve God but often serving ourselves at least as much. For those who have no Christian background, there are things to learn. Even for those with a Christian background, there are things to realize about ourselves, as well as things about Christianity that the book got right and things that it got wrong.
Although often much negativity is aimed at light Christian reading, it has this value: It acknowledges that God exists, that he matters to us, and that both we and our actions matter to him. Deep theology? No. Valuable refreshment and invitation to think? Yes.
I recommend this book for teen girls. (And for adults who are looking for a sunny, humorous story.)
To complicate matters, at the last minute Zach’s father decides he needs his son’s help with the planting and so Zach invites Micah to the farm instead, with a warning that it might be a lot of work for an English boy.
What on earth can Micah do? Her penpal Zach is, in many ways, her best friend....
This lighthearted teen book filled some difficult hours with laughter, joy, and the wholesomeness of Melody Carlson’s writing. I loved the characters, except for Zach’s mother whom I felt sorry for and the determined Rachel, who was attempting to test the idea that kissing makes a young man think about marriage. I loved Zach’s sparkly sister Katy, the scenery, the humor, the plot, and, especially, Micah.
This was a delightful story in a Christian context. Not perfect Christianity, by any means, but a clear view of how we live out our lives, trying to serve God but often serving ourselves at least as much. For those who have no Christian background, there are things to learn. Even for those with a Christian background, there are things to realize about ourselves, as well as things about Christianity that the book got right and things that it got wrong.
Although often much negativity is aimed at light Christian reading, it has this value: It acknowledges that God exists, that he matters to us, and that both we and our actions matter to him. Deep theology? No. Valuable refreshment and invitation to think? Yes.
I recommend this book for teen girls. (And for adults who are looking for a sunny, humorous story.)
January 3, 2019
I don't read Amish books as a rule of thumb. I don't understand this Christian fiction trend of being obsessed with the Amish, and I don't partake in it. But when I saw this blurb, I was intrigued. I had to know how it played out, and I've read quite a few Melody Carlson books, enough to know that I liked her writing, and decided to give this one a chance.
This one was interesting, to say the least. If you know anything about the Amish, then you should know enough to know that boys and girls mixing is no bueno. Which is why Micah hid the fact that she was a girl once she was old enough to understand their culture. But now that she has the chance to meet him face-to-face, she doesn't know what to do.
This was a fun story. I had a point, that I said if Micah didn't tell them she was a girl, then I was going to stop reading. But she does tell them, and I kept reading. And it was interesting. I did enjoy the culture, and the differences between Amish and the English. But we also got to see both sides, from Micah going there and liking it, to Zack wanting to leave the farm and go out into the world. Both sides were represented, and there wasn't a bias of which one was better.
Micah enjoyed her time at the farm, even with Zack's mother hating her, and I felt both Micah and Zack learned a lot from the experience. Zack's siblings were adorable as well. This was a fun and entertaining story, and I am definitely happy with the way everything worked out.
I received a copy from the publisher, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
This one was interesting, to say the least. If you know anything about the Amish, then you should know enough to know that boys and girls mixing is no bueno. Which is why Micah hid the fact that she was a girl once she was old enough to understand their culture. But now that she has the chance to meet him face-to-face, she doesn't know what to do.
This was a fun story. I had a point, that I said if Micah didn't tell them she was a girl, then I was going to stop reading. But she does tell them, and I kept reading. And it was interesting. I did enjoy the culture, and the differences between Amish and the English. But we also got to see both sides, from Micah going there and liking it, to Zack wanting to leave the farm and go out into the world. Both sides were represented, and there wasn't a bias of which one was better.
Micah enjoyed her time at the farm, even with Zack's mother hating her, and I felt both Micah and Zack learned a lot from the experience. Zack's siblings were adorable as well. This was a fun and entertaining story, and I am definitely happy with the way everything worked out.
I received a copy from the publisher, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
October 26, 2020
Trading Secrets: A Novel
Melody Carlson
Copyright 2019
Publ: Revell
Micah Knight is a girl with a guy’s name. That has created a problem. Her Amish pen pal for the last 6 years is a boy who thinks she is a boy. Now he wants to visit, and she doesn’t know how to tell him she isn’t a “he”.
At the last minute she gets a letter telling her he can’t come because he has to stay and help with the spring planting. He offers her a chance to visit his farm instead. After talking with her father and best friend Lizzie she decides to go for the visit disguised as a boy.
So begins the story of the tangle created when a secret gets out of hand. We watch what happens when Zach finds out she isn’t a “he”. We watch how his family, who prize the truth, reacr. Micah is everything that an Amish girl is not. Zach is more than Micah bargained for.
Micah experiences Amish life and is surprised by what she sees.
Melody Carlson paints an honest picture of Amish life. She neither paints it all rosy, nor does she focus on only the negatives. Her depiction of the characters is honest and real. The plot is intriguing and full of laughter and angst. Her description of the scenery makes it easy to paint a picture in your mind’s eye.
Melody has once again given us a wonderful, well-written story. I highly recommend this book. Even though the two main characters are teenagers, adults will be drawn in to the very surprising end.
I received this book for an honest review.
Melody Carlson
Copyright 2019
Publ: Revell
Micah Knight is a girl with a guy’s name. That has created a problem. Her Amish pen pal for the last 6 years is a boy who thinks she is a boy. Now he wants to visit, and she doesn’t know how to tell him she isn’t a “he”.
At the last minute she gets a letter telling her he can’t come because he has to stay and help with the spring planting. He offers her a chance to visit his farm instead. After talking with her father and best friend Lizzie she decides to go for the visit disguised as a boy.
So begins the story of the tangle created when a secret gets out of hand. We watch what happens when Zach finds out she isn’t a “he”. We watch how his family, who prize the truth, reacr. Micah is everything that an Amish girl is not. Zach is more than Micah bargained for.
Micah experiences Amish life and is surprised by what she sees.
Melody Carlson paints an honest picture of Amish life. She neither paints it all rosy, nor does she focus on only the negatives. Her depiction of the characters is honest and real. The plot is intriguing and full of laughter and angst. Her description of the scenery makes it easy to paint a picture in your mind’s eye.
Melody has once again given us a wonderful, well-written story. I highly recommend this book. Even though the two main characters are teenagers, adults will be drawn in to the very surprising end.
I received this book for an honest review.
October 27, 2020
Micah didn't pick her name. Her mom insisted on naming her that, even though it meant giving her daughter a boy's name. At first she didn't mind, because her tomboy attitude made her name rather realistic. She also got a great Amish pen pal out of the deal. Zach assumes she's a boy because of her name, and she knows enough about the Amish that if he knew she was a girl he wouldn't be allowed to write to her. So she leave that fact a secret, and their friendship grows over the year. Now shes a senior in high school and Zach wants to come visit her, which will reveal her secret to him. When the plans change she finds herself going to visit him, and trying to find a way to break her secret to him without breaking her sandwich. If only he wasn't so cute this would be much easier to leave him behind.
All in all not a bad book. Not entirely certain it was necessarily realistic. I know they take their beliefs seriously but I don't know how she could keep something like being a girl a secret for so many years. I also feel like Zach's mom wouldn't actually be that miserable. It is entirely possible. I do think if you want to read Amish fiction your best bet is to go with someone like Wanda Brunstetter instead. Don't get me wrong, I love Melody Carlson's works, I just think her normal fiction is better written
All in all not a bad book. Not entirely certain it was necessarily realistic. I know they take their beliefs seriously but I don't know how she could keep something like being a girl a secret for so many years. I also feel like Zach's mom wouldn't actually be that miserable. It is entirely possible. I do think if you want to read Amish fiction your best bet is to go with someone like Wanda Brunstetter instead. Don't get me wrong, I love Melody Carlson's works, I just think her normal fiction is better written
January 22, 2025
Melody Carlson’s Trading Secrets is a charming and heartwarming story that blends faith, romance, and self-discovery. The unique premise of two pen pals—Micah and Johanna—finally meeting after years of writing letters creates an engaging setup for the story. Carlson’s writing captures the awkwardness, humor, and heartfelt moments of their first face-to-face interaction beautifully.
The contrast between Johanna’s modern city life and Micah’s simple Amish lifestyle is thoughtfully explored, and the cultural differences add depth and intrigue to their relationship. The characters are relatable and endearing, making it easy to root for them as they navigate their unique circumstances.
The only reason this isn’t a 5-star review is that the story’s pacing felt a bit rushed in some parts, and I would have loved more time to explore certain aspects of the characters’ relationship.
Overall, Trading Secrets is an enjoyable and uplifting read that leaves you with a smile and a renewed appreciation for friendship and faith. A solid 4 stars!
The contrast between Johanna’s modern city life and Micah’s simple Amish lifestyle is thoughtfully explored, and the cultural differences add depth and intrigue to their relationship. The characters are relatable and endearing, making it easy to root for them as they navigate their unique circumstances.
The only reason this isn’t a 5-star review is that the story’s pacing felt a bit rushed in some parts, and I would have loved more time to explore certain aspects of the characters’ relationship.
Overall, Trading Secrets is an enjoyable and uplifting read that leaves you with a smile and a renewed appreciation for friendship and faith. A solid 4 stars!
March 24, 2020
Melody Carlson penned a tale of an 'English' girl and Amish boy exchanging letters since grade school. Due to Micah's name, Zach mistakenly thinks his pen pal is a boy. When Micah learns the truth, it's too late for her to confess her identity as she fears losing her new friend.
As the years go by, Micah and Zach's friendship grows stronger. In order to meet him, she disguises herself as a boy to visit his family's farm. While there, she realizes that despite the land's beauty, there's a shadow of doubt covering its surface. While Micah began the journey shrouded in secrecy, Zach's the one with the hidden agenda.
Thank you to #Netgalley for the opportunity to read #TradingSecrets. I enjoy Christian fiction and Zach and Micah's friendship creates a memorable read. I eagerly awaited Zach's decision and for Micah to come to terms with her feelings. There's no secret that Melody Carlson crafts charismatic tales.
As the years go by, Micah and Zach's friendship grows stronger. In order to meet him, she disguises herself as a boy to visit his family's farm. While there, she realizes that despite the land's beauty, there's a shadow of doubt covering its surface. While Micah began the journey shrouded in secrecy, Zach's the one with the hidden agenda.
Thank you to #Netgalley for the opportunity to read #TradingSecrets. I enjoy Christian fiction and Zach and Micah's friendship creates a memorable read. I eagerly awaited Zach's decision and for Micah to come to terms with her feelings. There's no secret that Melody Carlson crafts charismatic tales.
January 10, 2026
I think that this is the best book that Melody Carlson has written. Its about a girl who is called Micah who plans to meet with her amish penpal. The problem is that her penpal thinks she is a boy due to her name. Micah dresses up as a boy and meets her penpal but later reveals that she is actually a girl. Her penpal and his family are mad and Micah tries to go home but her dad is unable to get her right away so she ends up staying. While Micah is there one of the horses has trouble having a foal so Micah gets her uncle on the phone and he gives intructions to the penpal. Later Micah's dad picks her up and the penpal decides to go along with them.
August 16, 2021
Melody was recommend to me recently and this was her first book I read… now I want to read all of them!!! I started reading this last night and stayed up later than I planned and then finished it this evening. It was hard to put down and extremely interesting. The only thing that was different was she wrote in present tense instead of past tense, but she had consistent grammar and no misspelling—this was important for me. I look forward to reading more of her books!
May 10, 2020
This tale of penpals finally meeting each other has a twist, as one does not realize the other is actually a girl instead of the boy he thought he'd been writing to. Some of Carlson's books are greatly entertaining. This was not one of them. The first-person narrative stood out too much, rather than making the story more convincing. Overall it had a very simple plot, not very interestingly told.
January 23, 2018
I like how this wasn't focused solely on romance. It was a story about a girl wanting to get to meet her long time pen pal... Who just happens to be an Amish boy. I like how it ended, and know I won't tell you. 😜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2019
I don't usually pick up books pertaining to Amish culture as I find sometimes the terms a challenge to understand. This book however captivated me from the first pages. If you are looking for a great read, this is one you will not want to put down.
March 6, 2018
Interesting and Entertaining story. I like both characters Zack and Micah. I wanted both of their relationships to work out.
March 9, 2020
I grew up with Amish kids and let me tell you, not a single one was anywhere near as naive as Zach.
February 26, 2021
this was an adorable YA book, just cute from the beginning to the end...and I love the ending made me happy!
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