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An Empty Cup
Amish woman Rosanna Zook lost her self-confidence within the confines of a loveless and abusive marriage. In the years spent quietly dealing with her burdens and dutifully caring for others, she forgot her sense of self and ability to feel. But after her first husband’s untimely death, she gets a second chance with Reuben Troyer, a godly man who welcomes Rosanna and her two children into his life.
Despite the love and respect she finds in her new marriage, Rosanna soon learns that juggling the demands of her family and church community is more than she can handle. When Rosanna becomes ill, she is forced to confront a hard one empty cup cannot fill another. For a woman who has spent her life giving, will Rosanna finally be able to let go and receive?
Despite the love and respect she finds in her new marriage, Rosanna soon learns that juggling the demands of her family and church community is more than she can handle. When Rosanna becomes ill, she is forced to confront a hard one empty cup cannot fill another. For a woman who has spent her life giving, will Rosanna finally be able to let go and receive?
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2015
865 people are currently reading
1814 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Price
135 books647 followersECPA Christian Fiction Bestseller (June 2014, July 2014)
Amazon Top 100 Author for Books & eBooks (January 2016, September 2013, August 2013, May 2013, April 2013, February 2013, January 2013, December 2012)
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The author of over 30 novels, Sarah Price publishes with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall, an imprint of Brilliance Audio.
Her book, An Empty Cup, was #3 on Amazon Top 100 eBooks in January 2016.
Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice
FAMILY HERITAGE
During the early 1700s, the Preiss family arrived in America aboard an old sailing vessel called the Patience. The family left Europe, escaping Catholic persecution for their Anabaptist beliefs. Sarah Price comes from a long line of devout Mennonites, including numerous church leaders and ministers throughout the years.
In 1969, Sarah Price was born in Pennsylvania and lived on the land of her ancestors, Johannes Preiss and "King Tammany", otherwise known as Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape nation in the Delaware Valley.
In the early 1970s, her family moved to Morristown, New Jersey where she still resides with her husband, two children, and assortment of animals.
Ms. Price has advanced degrees in Communication (MA), Marketing (MBA), and Educational Leadership (PhD).
Ms. Price was a former full-time college professor. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, she now writes full-time.
Amazon Top 100 Author for Books & eBooks (January 2016, September 2013, August 2013, May 2013, April 2013, February 2013, January 2013, December 2012)
-------------------------
The author of over 30 novels, Sarah Price publishes with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall, an imprint of Brilliance Audio.
Her book, An Empty Cup, was #3 on Amazon Top 100 eBooks in January 2016.
Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice
FAMILY HERITAGE
During the early 1700s, the Preiss family arrived in America aboard an old sailing vessel called the Patience. The family left Europe, escaping Catholic persecution for their Anabaptist beliefs. Sarah Price comes from a long line of devout Mennonites, including numerous church leaders and ministers throughout the years.
In 1969, Sarah Price was born in Pennsylvania and lived on the land of her ancestors, Johannes Preiss and "King Tammany", otherwise known as Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape nation in the Delaware Valley.
In the early 1970s, her family moved to Morristown, New Jersey where she still resides with her husband, two children, and assortment of animals.
Ms. Price has advanced degrees in Communication (MA), Marketing (MBA), and Educational Leadership (PhD).
Ms. Price was a former full-time college professor. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, she now writes full-time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
April 15, 2015
My Review:
Oh my, hope I can sleep tonight I have just finished a book that the ending literally has me crying and thinking about my life. It is fiction but "So Real". Usually books are a good thing before sleep but this one might be an exception, not that the book is bad but just the opposite. All should read this book, especially those that are givers. The book is "An Empty Cup" by Sarah Price.
This book is about an Amish woman named Rosanna who in her first marriage is abused by her husband. She has learned to hide herself in giving to others but soon learns that there is a price to pay for doing so. Yes,this book is an fictional Amish story but not the typical one as it deals with a subject that we Englisches ( non Amish people) think they don't have to deal with which is depression.
It is easy to see that Sarah Price does her best to give her readers a complete look into the Amish culture in this book as she does with all her other books, ( I think "An Empty Cup" is my second favorite book by her, the first is "Fields Of Corn" just because that was the book that brought Sarah Price into my life).
I could go on and on and say why this book is so wunderbar (wonderful) but I won't. I will just say two things "One Empty Cup" cannot fill another, and "Givers need to receive too." You need to read this book and follow the life giving messages clearly written within the pages of this story.
I was given a copy by NetGallery and the publisher for my honest review!
Oh my, hope I can sleep tonight I have just finished a book that the ending literally has me crying and thinking about my life. It is fiction but "So Real". Usually books are a good thing before sleep but this one might be an exception, not that the book is bad but just the opposite. All should read this book, especially those that are givers. The book is "An Empty Cup" by Sarah Price.
This book is about an Amish woman named Rosanna who in her first marriage is abused by her husband. She has learned to hide herself in giving to others but soon learns that there is a price to pay for doing so. Yes,this book is an fictional Amish story but not the typical one as it deals with a subject that we Englisches ( non Amish people) think they don't have to deal with which is depression.
It is easy to see that Sarah Price does her best to give her readers a complete look into the Amish culture in this book as she does with all her other books, ( I think "An Empty Cup" is my second favorite book by her, the first is "Fields Of Corn" just because that was the book that brought Sarah Price into my life).
I could go on and on and say why this book is so wunderbar (wonderful) but I won't. I will just say two things "One Empty Cup" cannot fill another, and "Givers need to receive too." You need to read this book and follow the life giving messages clearly written within the pages of this story.
I was given a copy by NetGallery and the publisher for my honest review!
April 12, 2015
This book is quite easily my favorite by Sarah Price. I have read several of her books and enjoyed them all but this one grabbed me at the first page and didn't let go until the last word had been read. This book could very well be used as a textbook on how to write great Amish fiction.
I immediately felt a connection to the main characters in this book. They were easy to relate to and care about. The characters, even the not so nice ones, were well developed. The storyline was great. The reader can easily see it was well thought out and executed. The story moved along nicely and had a good flow to it. The book carries a good message and is well delivered. The author did a great job of writing about the topics of abuse and depression without the book being a dreary or depressing read. I think a lot of people believe the Amish don't have to deal with these issues and it was nice to see how they are just the same as everyone else and how they dealt with the struggles they were faced with. I am hoping there will be a sequel to this book as I would like to read more about this famiy and community.
This is a great read and if you are a fan of Amish fiction (or just really good books) you should pick up a copy today. This is one for the "keeper" shelf!
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I immediately felt a connection to the main characters in this book. They were easy to relate to and care about. The characters, even the not so nice ones, were well developed. The storyline was great. The reader can easily see it was well thought out and executed. The story moved along nicely and had a good flow to it. The book carries a good message and is well delivered. The author did a great job of writing about the topics of abuse and depression without the book being a dreary or depressing read. I think a lot of people believe the Amish don't have to deal with these issues and it was nice to see how they are just the same as everyone else and how they dealt with the struggles they were faced with. I am hoping there will be a sequel to this book as I would like to read more about this famiy and community.
This is a great read and if you are a fan of Amish fiction (or just really good books) you should pick up a copy today. This is one for the "keeper" shelf!
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 12, 2020
Another great Amish novel from Sarah Price! A mother who is constantly beset with requests (or demands) of help feels herself being worn down. She keeps giving but everything is starting to lose its luster. She keeps praying to God to give her back her zeal and positivity but each day is a challenge. After her emotionally abusive and alcoholic husband died in accident she spent a few lonely years with her two children until she was approached by a widower and re-married. Things have been mostly good - but he's not use to children or living on a farm. Sometimes he's harsher on his new wife then intended - and to top it off there is a new Amish woman working at his leather shop who is causing all sorts of problems. A quick and satisfying read that obviously has a happy ending.
April 8, 2015
I saw this book was up for a review at NetGalley and thought it looked very interesting. I have only recently been reading Amish stories and I think that is one of the reasons I found it so intriguing. This story primarily centers around Rosanna who is a very caring and giving Amish woman. One of the things I liked about this book is how real the characters felt while I was reading. This story shows both Rosanna's strengths and weaknesses. We meet Rosanna while she is married to Timothy, her first husband. As a young girl she had great hopes for a loving marriage and a house full of children, but her life is not what she hoped it would be. She is the mother of two children, Cate and Aaron, and a wife to a man that has problems no one in the community could have expected. After Timothy was killed in a vehicle versus buggy accident, Rosanna experiences a difficult life. Aaron has taken over the farm chores, but he is so young to have so much responsibility. When she meets Reuben Troyer a widower who owns store closer to town if this is the man God means for her. Rosanna is a person everyone turns to for help when they need anything, but suddenly she has no time for herself or help.
This is a wonderful story about the struggles of a young woman who like anyone else wants what is best for her family. She works hard and will do everything in her power to not shirk her duties. The underlying message is that sometimes we have to listen to God's message instead of trying to interpret it to fit our needs. There are times we pray and feel that God is not listening to us, but we must remember that God is always there. God does things on his timetable not ours. Sometimes he's telling to be patient.
This is a wonderful story and I would recommend it to anyone who likes Amish stories.
I received this from NetGalley for a honest review without bias as stated above. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a wonderful story about the struggles of a young woman who like anyone else wants what is best for her family. She works hard and will do everything in her power to not shirk her duties. The underlying message is that sometimes we have to listen to God's message instead of trying to interpret it to fit our needs. There are times we pray and feel that God is not listening to us, but we must remember that God is always there. God does things on his timetable not ours. Sometimes he's telling to be patient.
This is a wonderful story and I would recommend it to anyone who likes Amish stories.
I received this from NetGalley for a honest review without bias as stated above. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 14, 2015
What should matter to everyone is a simple "Thank You . . ." or a "Here let me help you with . . ." One or both of these is really appreciated even for the small meaningless tasks and or for the simplest acts of kindness that you receive daily or multiply times a day.
What did I think of An Empty Cup by Sarah Price? I felt like I was Rosanna Zook Troyer, the main character in An Empty Cup. Why do I say that? I say this because I can so relate to Rosanna; there is always something to do, something to clean, always somewhere to go, and or someone who wants my undivided attention. Us, mothers - regardless if we have a paying job or not, never seem to have enough hours in the day to meet our demanding to-do lists in our busy lives.
Sarah Price writes her stories that one can relate to the characters in one way or another while keeping true to the Amish culture and their beliefs. Her stories are fictional, characters are fictional, but the story line is based one true fact or a character's behavior.
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.
What did I think of An Empty Cup by Sarah Price? I felt like I was Rosanna Zook Troyer, the main character in An Empty Cup. Why do I say that? I say this because I can so relate to Rosanna; there is always something to do, something to clean, always somewhere to go, and or someone who wants my undivided attention. Us, mothers - regardless if we have a paying job or not, never seem to have enough hours in the day to meet our demanding to-do lists in our busy lives.
Sarah Price writes her stories that one can relate to the characters in one way or another while keeping true to the Amish culture and their beliefs. Her stories are fictional, characters are fictional, but the story line is based one true fact or a character's behavior.
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.
April 13, 2015
This book is fast moving and very well written. Each of the characters are integral to the story, and Ms. Price has made each one interesting and cohesive.
Roseanna is a character that I came to care for as she seemed real and believable to me. As did her relationships with her husband, children and community.
There is one character that I did not care for throughout the book, but in the end, I did have empathy for her.
This is a very good book with both heartache and happiness.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review
Roseanna is a character that I came to care for as she seemed real and believable to me. As did her relationships with her husband, children and community.
There is one character that I did not care for throughout the book, but in the end, I did have empathy for her.
This is a very good book with both heartache and happiness.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review
April 13, 2015
An Empty Cup by Sarah Price is an Amish novel. In the beginning Rosanna is married to Timothy Zook. He was so sweet when they were courting, but he was hiding the fact that he drank. After their marriage the drinking continued to get worse especially after the birth of their daughter, Cate. Timothy doted on his son, Aaron but would not have anything to do with Cate. One night Timothy got into his buggy drunk and was hit by a car.
Three years pass and Rosanna is courted by Rueben Troyer. Rueben owns Troyer Harness Shop and is a kind, gentle man. Rueben and Rosanna marry. Rueben moves out to the farm and rents out his home next to the harness shop (it was too small for the married couple along with the two children). To spend more time with his family, Rueben hires newcomer Nan Keel to help in the harness shop.
Nan and her brother, Samuel come from a different district. Nan is ambitious, zealous, and rude. She is not like the other women in their community. Nan’s main focus is expanding the harness shop. Soon Rueben starts coming home later and becomes critical (and demanding). Rosanna keeps quiet and just continues to help. Rosanna is unable to say no when asked for help. Rosanna is a giver. She continues to run the household, take care of the garden, and much more. She starts experiencing anxiety attacks (though she does not know that is what they are). Slowly Rosanna becomes quieter and starts shutting down. Rueben is so busy with the shop that he does not notice.
Rosanna also has to deal with a problem neighbor. Gloria is their non-Amish neighbor who continually harasses the family over the low fence. It gets so bad that Rosanna nor Cate wants to work in their garden. Rueben refuses to address the issue.
When one of the preachers passes away, Rueben draw the lot to become the new preacher. This is just too much for Rosanna and she shuts down. To find out what is wrong with Rosanna, please read An Empty Cup.
I give An Empty Cup 4 out of 5 stars. It is well-written and has a good message, but it is not a novel that will make you smile. An Empty Cup deals with a serious issue and Sarah Price handles it beautifully. It is important to remember that an empty cup cannot give!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Three years pass and Rosanna is courted by Rueben Troyer. Rueben owns Troyer Harness Shop and is a kind, gentle man. Rueben and Rosanna marry. Rueben moves out to the farm and rents out his home next to the harness shop (it was too small for the married couple along with the two children). To spend more time with his family, Rueben hires newcomer Nan Keel to help in the harness shop.
Nan and her brother, Samuel come from a different district. Nan is ambitious, zealous, and rude. She is not like the other women in their community. Nan’s main focus is expanding the harness shop. Soon Rueben starts coming home later and becomes critical (and demanding). Rosanna keeps quiet and just continues to help. Rosanna is unable to say no when asked for help. Rosanna is a giver. She continues to run the household, take care of the garden, and much more. She starts experiencing anxiety attacks (though she does not know that is what they are). Slowly Rosanna becomes quieter and starts shutting down. Rueben is so busy with the shop that he does not notice.
Rosanna also has to deal with a problem neighbor. Gloria is their non-Amish neighbor who continually harasses the family over the low fence. It gets so bad that Rosanna nor Cate wants to work in their garden. Rueben refuses to address the issue.
When one of the preachers passes away, Rueben draw the lot to become the new preacher. This is just too much for Rosanna and she shuts down. To find out what is wrong with Rosanna, please read An Empty Cup.
I give An Empty Cup 4 out of 5 stars. It is well-written and has a good message, but it is not a novel that will make you smile. An Empty Cup deals with a serious issue and Sarah Price handles it beautifully. It is important to remember that an empty cup cannot give!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2015
As the book opens we meet Rosanna and Timothy, a typical Amish couple. Nope not by a long shot, at least not Timothy, he sure doesn’t seem to live his faith.
Fast forward ahead a few years, and we find Rosanna living a better life, or is she? She is now married to Reuben and as we meet him we feel a breath of fresh air. He appears to care about his wife and children, and seems to be a man of deep faith.
Rosanna has a very full plate, taking care of her family, all her household chores, and her love of her community. We walk in her shoes as she goes about her daily chores, and those chores seem to multiply as each day comes. She seem to be at the breaking point at times, and you will worry about her health, how much can one woman take?
Enter a new woman whom Reuben seems to have taken under his wing, and has arrived at a time when he wants to cut back on his working. Nan looks like a Godsend, she is in love with the business, and has her hand in everything, including expanding.
Sounds like a perfect Amish life here, but things are not how they are being presented. Come along for another impossible to put down read by Master Story Teller Sarah Price, you will not be disappointed.
I received this book from the Author and was not required to give a positive review.
Fast forward ahead a few years, and we find Rosanna living a better life, or is she? She is now married to Reuben and as we meet him we feel a breath of fresh air. He appears to care about his wife and children, and seems to be a man of deep faith.
Rosanna has a very full plate, taking care of her family, all her household chores, and her love of her community. We walk in her shoes as she goes about her daily chores, and those chores seem to multiply as each day comes. She seem to be at the breaking point at times, and you will worry about her health, how much can one woman take?
Enter a new woman whom Reuben seems to have taken under his wing, and has arrived at a time when he wants to cut back on his working. Nan looks like a Godsend, she is in love with the business, and has her hand in everything, including expanding.
Sounds like a perfect Amish life here, but things are not how they are being presented. Come along for another impossible to put down read by Master Story Teller Sarah Price, you will not be disappointed.
I received this book from the Author and was not required to give a positive review.
April 8, 2015
I just couldn't get into this story. It didn't draw me in. For some reason it didn't seem realistic.
I couldn't connect with Rosanna. She seemed shut off, but that would be natural in her situation. I guess I just expected to see more of her internal struggle because as a writer you can take the liberty to enter a character's mind. I also found it hard to believe that Timothy could hide his use of drugs and alcohol so easily. Alcohol and drugs aren't something you can use at night and get up in the morning acting and looking like an upright Amish man. Things like that alter your behavior all the time. You really can't control yourself very easily after going down a path like that.
Then the fact that the story skipped after the first chapter to years later was strange in my opinion. I was looking forward to reading about a young lady who recovered after her last marriage and found love in another marriage but then struggled in receiving rather than giving as she was used to. In the second chapter I just couldn't connect with Reuben and Rosanna and her kids. I had been dropped into the middle of their life and I wasn't really sure what was going on.
Maybe my mood made me read the book in a bad light, but that's what I thought when I read this book.
I couldn't connect with Rosanna. She seemed shut off, but that would be natural in her situation. I guess I just expected to see more of her internal struggle because as a writer you can take the liberty to enter a character's mind. I also found it hard to believe that Timothy could hide his use of drugs and alcohol so easily. Alcohol and drugs aren't something you can use at night and get up in the morning acting and looking like an upright Amish man. Things like that alter your behavior all the time. You really can't control yourself very easily after going down a path like that.
Then the fact that the story skipped after the first chapter to years later was strange in my opinion. I was looking forward to reading about a young lady who recovered after her last marriage and found love in another marriage but then struggled in receiving rather than giving as she was used to. In the second chapter I just couldn't connect with Reuben and Rosanna and her kids. I had been dropped into the middle of their life and I wasn't really sure what was going on.
Maybe my mood made me read the book in a bad light, but that's what I thought when I read this book.
April 11, 2015
I've only been reading Sarah Price's books for a short time, but I've already learned what to expect -- and what I expect is the unexpected! The Empty Cup definitely fits that description. It is a story in a familiar setting to those of us who are great fans of Amish fiction, but it shows a side of the Plain life that we don't always see.
Rosanna Zook Troyer is a fairly typical Amish wife and mother, living her life doing the things expected of such a woman. But her past circumstances and an ever-increasing set of demands she allows to be put on herself continue to push her to a point of being an "empty cup" with very little time and energy left.
Sarah does an excellent job of bringing her readers into Rosanna's thoughts and feelings so that we can truly share in her experiences. Journeying with Rosanna through her ups and downs is a captivating experience which also offers a challenge to take a step back and do some self-reflection about your own day-to-day choices.
I highly recommend An Empty Cup to fans of great Amish fiction or anyone who might like a nice, introspective story.
Thanks to Sarah for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Rosanna Zook Troyer is a fairly typical Amish wife and mother, living her life doing the things expected of such a woman. But her past circumstances and an ever-increasing set of demands she allows to be put on herself continue to push her to a point of being an "empty cup" with very little time and energy left.
Sarah does an excellent job of bringing her readers into Rosanna's thoughts and feelings so that we can truly share in her experiences. Journeying with Rosanna through her ups and downs is a captivating experience which also offers a challenge to take a step back and do some self-reflection about your own day-to-day choices.
I highly recommend An Empty Cup to fans of great Amish fiction or anyone who might like a nice, introspective story.
Thanks to Sarah for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 8, 2017
Felt the ending was a little rushed in this book. Slow build up to an insignificant event. However reading about the life of Amish people was interesting.
May 11, 2015
"An empty cup cannot give!"
This story of Rosanna Troyer, an Amish wife and mother, could be the story of any woman who has struggled with the oftentimes debilitating effects of anxiety and depression. Rosanna's unloving and abusive first husband has left her with little self esteem, and her responsibilities weigh heavily on her. Recently remarried, she's a typical Amish wife and mother with endless tasks to complete. Being a godly woman she takes on outside activities to contribute to her community. Life has become an endless battle to keep up with what Rosanna feels is her duty.
One who struggles with anxiety and depression, I could easily relate to Rosanna and her overwhelming feelings of despair when she began to lose herself to all of the commitments in her life. She was taking care of everyone's needs but her own. Feeling it her duty to help others as a way of pleasing God, Rosanna found herself unable say "no" when asked to participate in activities and help in any way she could. The demands of even her loving family began to overwhelm her as she struggled to keep up a faster pace than she was able to bear. The more she gave the less she had left of herself, finally suffering physical symptoms that she could no longer deny.
Sarah Price has lived with the Amish and has a strong bond with the Lancaster County Amish community. Her knowledge of the life of an Amish woman is substantial. She portrays her characters with honesty, integrity and sensitivity. Rosanna is a broken woman. Her cup is empty, and this author has represented the resulting realities of anxiety and depression. I found this to be a very tastefully written story of the human condition that exists in all societies, regardless of religious beliefs or other differences.
Descriptive, sensitive, believable and honest, this representation of a very broken woman is familiar to many of us. Ms. Price has penned a very powerful testimony to the debilitating and destructive symptoms of anxiety and depression. I highly recommend this book, and feel that every woman should take the time to read it. For those who suffer the ravages of this affliction, "An Empty Cup" is an education in the realities that accompany the inability to say "no."
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
This story of Rosanna Troyer, an Amish wife and mother, could be the story of any woman who has struggled with the oftentimes debilitating effects of anxiety and depression. Rosanna's unloving and abusive first husband has left her with little self esteem, and her responsibilities weigh heavily on her. Recently remarried, she's a typical Amish wife and mother with endless tasks to complete. Being a godly woman she takes on outside activities to contribute to her community. Life has become an endless battle to keep up with what Rosanna feels is her duty.
One who struggles with anxiety and depression, I could easily relate to Rosanna and her overwhelming feelings of despair when she began to lose herself to all of the commitments in her life. She was taking care of everyone's needs but her own. Feeling it her duty to help others as a way of pleasing God, Rosanna found herself unable say "no" when asked to participate in activities and help in any way she could. The demands of even her loving family began to overwhelm her as she struggled to keep up a faster pace than she was able to bear. The more she gave the less she had left of herself, finally suffering physical symptoms that she could no longer deny.
Sarah Price has lived with the Amish and has a strong bond with the Lancaster County Amish community. Her knowledge of the life of an Amish woman is substantial. She portrays her characters with honesty, integrity and sensitivity. Rosanna is a broken woman. Her cup is empty, and this author has represented the resulting realities of anxiety and depression. I found this to be a very tastefully written story of the human condition that exists in all societies, regardless of religious beliefs or other differences.
Descriptive, sensitive, believable and honest, this representation of a very broken woman is familiar to many of us. Ms. Price has penned a very powerful testimony to the debilitating and destructive symptoms of anxiety and depression. I highly recommend this book, and feel that every woman should take the time to read it. For those who suffer the ravages of this affliction, "An Empty Cup" is an education in the realities that accompany the inability to say "no."
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
May 1, 2015
Is Your Cup Empty?
In An Empty Cup, Sarah Price has once again written a unique, heartrending tale of hard lessons learned, and the struggles and burdens of one Amish mother that parallels the harsh realities that many women from all walks of life face as well.
Rosanna Zook was the victim of an abusive and loveless marriage, one in which she totally lost her identity taking care of those around her and trying to keep the peace. Having very little self-esteem or feelings of self worth, Rosanna believes that in order to please God she cannot say "no" to others and wears herself out in the process. When a tragedy occurs she is given a second chance at love with her new husband, Reuben Troyer, a godly man who cherishes her and her two children. But Rosanna lacks the self-confidence and the ability to turn others down and as she gives her life to family, friends, and community there is no time left for herself. She becomes an empty shell of a person, exhausted, and unhappy. When she becomes very ill, she has to confront the ultimate question – can one empty cup fill another? Will she learn the hard way that God wants her life to be blessed by others as well?…and can she unashamedly accept that?
Having lived amongst the Amish, masterful storyteller Sarah Price doesn't present a cookie cutter, cushy view of them but a realistic one. They have problems, vices, and weaknesses just as the Englisch (term used for non-Amish people) do. I know so many well meaning family members, friends, and acquaintances that will thoroughly benefit from reading this wonderfully written, touching novel! God's grace is sufficient and we don't have to work our way into His kingdom. This book is not your typical boy meets girl romance, but it touched me deep down in my soul and will forever remain there. For I also had to overcome many self-esteem issues in my adulthood as the result of growing up under an abusive, alcoholic father. I totally "get" Rosanna and her need for self-affirmation. TOTALLY. Is your cup empty, my friend? Read this compelling story and find out! Highly recommended!
August 25, 2015
An Empty Cup**** e-book by Sarah Price
Rosanna Zook soon learned after marrying Timothy he has a secret—he drinks, often and becomes drunk and abusive. Rosanna tried her best to keep the peace the best she could and protect her son and daughter. One night a drunk Timothy goes out in his buggy and is hit by a car. Now a widow, Rosanna focuses on caring for her children and helping out in her Amish community wherever needed.
Reuben Troyer is a godly man who courts and marries widowed Rosanna. She is a bit apprehensive at first, will her new husband turn out to be like her deceased husband was? Timothy has a harness shop that is very successful and keeps him busy and away from home more than he would like. He hires a new helper so that he is able to spend more time with his family. However, things don't turn out the way he had hoped, he is actually spending more time at the shop than before. This leaves Rosanna with even more chores to do on top of her already stretched schedule. She finds herself overextending herself more and more to the point that she starts having anxiety attacks—which Reuben does not notice until she shuts down.
This story touches on many emotions, not all pleasant: alcoholism and abuse, pain, anger, fear, heartache, anxiety and depression—as well as forgiveness, allowing help from others, joy, healing, love and faith. I could “feel” Rosanna's struggle to keep herself together and care for others while feeling worse each day and not knowing what is wrong. Sarah Price deals with mental illness very openly and honestly in this story, as well as showing how mental illness impacts the whole family and that there is help available. I can relate to much of the emotions in this story as having lived through some of them myself. There was one character in the story that I didn't care for and wanted to warn Reuben about. A very well written book.
~I received an e-book copy of this book from Netgalley for my honest review~
Rosanna Zook soon learned after marrying Timothy he has a secret—he drinks, often and becomes drunk and abusive. Rosanna tried her best to keep the peace the best she could and protect her son and daughter. One night a drunk Timothy goes out in his buggy and is hit by a car. Now a widow, Rosanna focuses on caring for her children and helping out in her Amish community wherever needed.
Reuben Troyer is a godly man who courts and marries widowed Rosanna. She is a bit apprehensive at first, will her new husband turn out to be like her deceased husband was? Timothy has a harness shop that is very successful and keeps him busy and away from home more than he would like. He hires a new helper so that he is able to spend more time with his family. However, things don't turn out the way he had hoped, he is actually spending more time at the shop than before. This leaves Rosanna with even more chores to do on top of her already stretched schedule. She finds herself overextending herself more and more to the point that she starts having anxiety attacks—which Reuben does not notice until she shuts down.
This story touches on many emotions, not all pleasant: alcoholism and abuse, pain, anger, fear, heartache, anxiety and depression—as well as forgiveness, allowing help from others, joy, healing, love and faith. I could “feel” Rosanna's struggle to keep herself together and care for others while feeling worse each day and not knowing what is wrong. Sarah Price deals with mental illness very openly and honestly in this story, as well as showing how mental illness impacts the whole family and that there is help available. I can relate to much of the emotions in this story as having lived through some of them myself. There was one character in the story that I didn't care for and wanted to warn Reuben about. A very well written book.
~I received an e-book copy of this book from Netgalley for my honest review~
April 17, 2015
What a thoroughly interesting book this was! It is so very different than the usual Amish fare available to readers. An Empty Cup deals with issues that are hard to tackle. People don’t necessarily want to talk about depression or mental illness in a community setting such as the Amish. But that does not mean it does not exist. The author handles the story with grace and manages to set the stage for a very emotionally moving and uplifting tale.
As I watched Rosanna take on more and more, struggling with feeling unseen and uncared for, I felt myself experiencing the same despondency she herself was falling into. I was very impressed by the author’s ability to write a story that made me want to continue to turn the pages, hoping for a happy resolution, while being able to convey the hopelessness that had become Rosanna’s life.
This book was full of interesting characters and situations. It is not just a cut and dry piece of fiction. There were many levels to the people I met in these pages. Digging in and figuring out all of the complexities to this book took me on a thoughtful journey. I enjoyed this story and especially liked the last third of the book, as things began to finally fall into place in Rosanna’s life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
As I watched Rosanna take on more and more, struggling with feeling unseen and uncared for, I felt myself experiencing the same despondency she herself was falling into. I was very impressed by the author’s ability to write a story that made me want to continue to turn the pages, hoping for a happy resolution, while being able to convey the hopelessness that had become Rosanna’s life.
This book was full of interesting characters and situations. It is not just a cut and dry piece of fiction. There were many levels to the people I met in these pages. Digging in and figuring out all of the complexities to this book took me on a thoughtful journey. I enjoyed this story and especially liked the last third of the book, as things began to finally fall into place in Rosanna’s life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
April 13, 2015
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange of a fair review. Here's what I thought:
This is my first read of the author's writings and my first encounter with the Amish people. The story opens up in a rather blunt manner, exposing the life of Rosanna in particular. Throughout a well-sought pace which rapidly mounts to trigger interest, we discover the struggles, both physical and psychological, of being a woman who comes from an abusive household. The narrative is simplistic while depicting how in trying to be a shield for her children and reliving a new marital bond, Rosanna breaks down herself. "An Empty Cup" is a beautiful story of love, sharing and self-discovery which underlines an extremely powerful line of thought. It is a book I thoroughly enjoyed reading and would recommend to others.
This is my first read of the author's writings and my first encounter with the Amish people. The story opens up in a rather blunt manner, exposing the life of Rosanna in particular. Throughout a well-sought pace which rapidly mounts to trigger interest, we discover the struggles, both physical and psychological, of being a woman who comes from an abusive household. The narrative is simplistic while depicting how in trying to be a shield for her children and reliving a new marital bond, Rosanna breaks down herself. "An Empty Cup" is a beautiful story of love, sharing and self-discovery which underlines an extremely powerful line of thought. It is a book I thoroughly enjoyed reading and would recommend to others.
April 11, 2015
An Empty Cup is my first book to read by Author Sarah Price. I love reading Amish fiction, but this book brought out a different storyline than I've ever read before. The author does excellent in showing whether you're Amish, English, other nationalities or religions; we're all still human. We all go through some of the same emotions and feelings. What can we give from An Empty Cup? I love the author's style of writing in this book. I definitely recommend reading An Empty Cup by Sarah Price. I will be looking for another book to read by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
April 30, 2015
* I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley to review.
An Empty Cup started out to be promising and I liked the observation and depiction of Amish life but towards the latter part of the story I think my interest waned a bit. The story seemed to me not to have a clear focus. I understood that part of that focus was Rosanna's difficulty with saying no and allowing herself to be pulled in all directions by family and community. Though it just seemed to be not quite clear enough or either two-dimensional and not quite fleshed out enough for me. I was relieved that Rosanna finally learned that you can't give when you have nothing in your cup to give but darn I felt wrung out through the process.
An Empty Cup started out to be promising and I liked the observation and depiction of Amish life but towards the latter part of the story I think my interest waned a bit. The story seemed to me not to have a clear focus. I understood that part of that focus was Rosanna's difficulty with saying no and allowing herself to be pulled in all directions by family and community. Though it just seemed to be not quite clear enough or either two-dimensional and not quite fleshed out enough for me. I was relieved that Rosanna finally learned that you can't give when you have nothing in your cup to give but darn I felt wrung out through the process.
January 8, 2018
Have you ever said to yourself “you know, I could really go for a book that’s 75% about a housewife whining about housework. That sounds fun.” If so, this is your book. But, rather than tackle the issue like most intelligent people do- ask the husband and kids to help, accept untidy, hire a maid, whatever- this doormat of a housewife cries, prays and keeps cleaning. Clean cry pray repeat that’s most of the book.
The book was a gift from a friend who I may have to reclassify as a frenemy over this. I was stuck in a plane so I continued on, but had I been home this would have been recycled paper the second cleaning cycle in.
The book was a gift from a friend who I may have to reclassify as a frenemy over this. I was stuck in a plane so I continued on, but had I been home this would have been recycled paper the second cleaning cycle in.
April 11, 2015
When I think about this book, the first word that comes to mind is Dark. But that is not a very good word. There is not very much happiness in this book, Even for the Children and what little there happiness there is, is short lived. This book does send a message about depression and mental illness, but it leads you to believe that the Amish are not very happy people.
March 11, 2016
A good lesson
The main character reminded me of me so much that reading this book was a wake up call. I cannot give when my cup is empty. After all, I had been hearing people say that to me for decades and I think it took this book to make me realize it.
The main character reminded me of me so much that reading this book was a wake up call. I cannot give when my cup is empty. After all, I had been hearing people say that to me for decades and I think it took this book to make me realize it.
July 17, 2015
An Empty Cup
Nice easy read and good reminder that we can deplete ourselves without letting God refill and renew our spirits as we strive to imitate Christ and serve others.
Nice easy read and good reminder that we can deplete ourselves without letting God refill and renew our spirits as we strive to imitate Christ and serve others.
July 7, 2017
*** Spoiler Ahead ***
First of all, I'd like to point out, that I wholeheartedly agree with all the 4* and 5* ratings. Sarah Price deserves every single one for her writing, the way how she develops the story and brings the characters to life! I love how she leads us into the world of the Amish and how she addresses depression as an illness nobody should be ashamed of.
My difficulties with this book however result from the feeling of injustice. I don't feel as Rosanna is traded fairly.
Knowing her story, I don't see a post-traumatic depression but a depression caused by exhaustion. Sure, she is traumatized by her abusive first husband and his violent death. Of course, there was the overwhelming feeling of guilt. But the major caused of her breakdown was the constant flood of work without a rest and no token of appreciation by her environment.
Certainly, she turned nobody’s request down and feared to tell people „no“ but even when she had the courage to ask for help (for example with her neighborhood problems or when she stated that she needed her daughter’s help at least on Saturday) Reuben turned her carelessly down or even broke his promise. And this carelessness, the lack of respect for her limits and her ideas combined with all the work Reuben requested (sometimes even ordered) her to do cause a deep sense of hopelessness, worthlessness and fatigue. A deadly combination even for somebody who isn't through years of abuse…
I miss that Reuben's contribution to Rosanne's exhaustion isn't addressed appropriately in this book. Admittedly, when she fell ill he paused, started to reflect and reconsidered the situation and finally changed his behavior. However, there was never an apology for all his bad moods and his displeased behavior Rosanne and Cate had to endure. All his short-tempered and unjust accusations consumed Rosanne's last bit of energy – until there was just an empty cup left.
The lesson the book delivers is: you have to take care of yourself, too. Sometimes this implies that you have to keep your distance form people who are just like “black holes”. People who don't really seek someones help – just their energy. Furthermore, it implies you have to learn to say “no” and ask for help by yourself.
Yet, the missing lesson is that Christian love requires respect for others and their limits, too. And mindfulness is key!
Since this aspect is absent, once again Rosanna is forced to carry all the burdens alone. It seems as everybody believes that she sank into depression because she couldn't say “no”. But that's only half the story!
That's why, I rate “An Empty Cup” as a 4**** book (otherwise there would have been a 5+++).
First of all, I'd like to point out, that I wholeheartedly agree with all the 4* and 5* ratings. Sarah Price deserves every single one for her writing, the way how she develops the story and brings the characters to life! I love how she leads us into the world of the Amish and how she addresses depression as an illness nobody should be ashamed of.
My difficulties with this book however result from the feeling of injustice. I don't feel as Rosanna is traded fairly.
Knowing her story, I don't see a post-traumatic depression but a depression caused by exhaustion. Sure, she is traumatized by her abusive first husband and his violent death. Of course, there was the overwhelming feeling of guilt. But the major caused of her breakdown was the constant flood of work without a rest and no token of appreciation by her environment.
Certainly, she turned nobody’s request down and feared to tell people „no“ but even when she had the courage to ask for help (for example with her neighborhood problems or when she stated that she needed her daughter’s help at least on Saturday) Reuben turned her carelessly down or even broke his promise. And this carelessness, the lack of respect for her limits and her ideas combined with all the work Reuben requested (sometimes even ordered) her to do cause a deep sense of hopelessness, worthlessness and fatigue. A deadly combination even for somebody who isn't through years of abuse…
I miss that Reuben's contribution to Rosanne's exhaustion isn't addressed appropriately in this book. Admittedly, when she fell ill he paused, started to reflect and reconsidered the situation and finally changed his behavior. However, there was never an apology for all his bad moods and his displeased behavior Rosanne and Cate had to endure. All his short-tempered and unjust accusations consumed Rosanne's last bit of energy – until there was just an empty cup left.
The lesson the book delivers is: you have to take care of yourself, too. Sometimes this implies that you have to keep your distance form people who are just like “black holes”. People who don't really seek someones help – just their energy. Furthermore, it implies you have to learn to say “no” and ask for help by yourself.
Yet, the missing lesson is that Christian love requires respect for others and their limits, too. And mindfulness is key!
Since this aspect is absent, once again Rosanna is forced to carry all the burdens alone. It seems as everybody believes that she sank into depression because she couldn't say “no”. But that's only half the story!
That's why, I rate “An Empty Cup” as a 4**** book (otherwise there would have been a 5+++).
May 6, 2019
“An Empty Cup” Sarah Price tells the story of Rosanna Zook, married to Timothy. They have two children, Aaron and Cate. Timothy is a nice man in public, but an abusive husband and father in their home. Rosanna’s self-confidence after living in this marriage is extremely low. After Timothy’s accidental death, Rosanna meets a good man in Reuben Troyer, who welcomes Rosanna, Aaron, and Cate into his life.
Rosanna takes to heart the attitude that she must do for others and forget her self. She takes on more and more demands from her family, friends, and church community until it becomes too much. She becomes ill and is forced to listen to her body. She had no more in her to give. So as the saying goes: one empty cup cannot fill another. Until her family, friends and church community see that Rosanna is not going to be a doormat any longer, her life becomes richer in love.
I thought this book had a good message for many, including me. I sometimes take on more than I can possibly accomplish, which puts me in a bind emotionally and spiritually. This book was a good lesson for me.
I was granted a download of this novel by NetGalley.com in return for my honest review. You can find this review on my blog at https://wp.me/p2pjIt-xB. Other reviews can be found at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.
Rosanna takes to heart the attitude that she must do for others and forget her self. She takes on more and more demands from her family, friends, and church community until it becomes too much. She becomes ill and is forced to listen to her body. She had no more in her to give. So as the saying goes: one empty cup cannot fill another. Until her family, friends and church community see that Rosanna is not going to be a doormat any longer, her life becomes richer in love.
I thought this book had a good message for many, including me. I sometimes take on more than I can possibly accomplish, which puts me in a bind emotionally and spiritually. This book was a good lesson for me.
I was granted a download of this novel by NetGalley.com in return for my honest review. You can find this review on my blog at https://wp.me/p2pjIt-xB. Other reviews can be found at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.
May 3, 2019
An enjoyable read!
An Empty Cup by Sarah Price
I've always been partial to books about the Amish. Having a rather large community near me keeps them front and center in my mind. I know each community can be so very different. They all share a love of God and living simply. I know that they can experience anxiety and depression just like anyone, but have never really given much thought to how they would handle it. Most Amish that I know rely only on holistic medicine and distrust English medical doctors unless they absolutely have to. I honestly don't blame them there!
Sarah Price, like always, has written a book that just flows. You can't help but get sucked into her books. Her characters are always multi-dimensional and flawed. I enjoy getting to know them and watch as they slowly, or suddenly, show major growth and begin to get their lives together. The author has a knack for writing about some hard hitting subjects. She does a fabulous job painting a picture with her words. I once again found myself losing track of time while reading before bed, only to finish the books and realize it is already 7am and I just read through the night! There's nothing like a good book.
An Empty Cup by Sarah Price
I've always been partial to books about the Amish. Having a rather large community near me keeps them front and center in my mind. I know each community can be so very different. They all share a love of God and living simply. I know that they can experience anxiety and depression just like anyone, but have never really given much thought to how they would handle it. Most Amish that I know rely only on holistic medicine and distrust English medical doctors unless they absolutely have to. I honestly don't blame them there!
Sarah Price, like always, has written a book that just flows. You can't help but get sucked into her books. Her characters are always multi-dimensional and flawed. I enjoy getting to know them and watch as they slowly, or suddenly, show major growth and begin to get their lives together. The author has a knack for writing about some hard hitting subjects. She does a fabulous job painting a picture with her words. I once again found myself losing track of time while reading before bed, only to finish the books and realize it is already 7am and I just read through the night! There's nothing like a good book.
May 24, 2020
This was a very heartwarming book about Roseanne, an Amish woman who gave so much of herself and wanted nothing in return. She put all of her trust in God and strived towards being a dutiful wife and mother even with the mental abuse from her husband she still remained true to her vows. After a sudden and milk illness hit er unexpectedly, she had to learn how to say, "No," to the many demands that were pressed upon her from her community. But with the help of a wise woman, she learned how to stop doing so much for others while neglecting her own needs.
This was a terrific read with an adorable and likable character. I was in the story the entire time. I also took a liking to the variety of terms and traditions within the Amish community.
The audio version was clear and the emphasis on particular words, phrases, and scenes was right on point and placed me in the story from beginning to end. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to escape for a while from their stressful life and learn a bit about the Amish community in the process.
~Nicole
This was a terrific read with an adorable and likable character. I was in the story the entire time. I also took a liking to the variety of terms and traditions within the Amish community.
The audio version was clear and the emphasis on particular words, phrases, and scenes was right on point and placed me in the story from beginning to end. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to escape for a while from their stressful life and learn a bit about the Amish community in the process.
~Nicole
October 7, 2017
An Empty Cup is by Sarah Price. This book takes place in the Amish community of a small town. It is a story about second chances and forgiveness. The book is really good but a little different from the other books I have read.
Rosanna has resigned herself to having a loveless marriage. She thought it would be different; but Timothy changed after they married. He was happy when their son, Aaron, was born but very disappointed when their daughter, Celia, was born. In Timothy’s world, there were women’s chores and men’s chores and the two were never mixed. He was impatient and a mean alcoholic. Although it made things hard for the family, his death was a blessing and a relief.
Three years later, Rosanna thought she made a definitely different choice when she married Reuben. For the first time, she and her children were happy. Reuben treated them well and respected them. Then, things changed. What was going on? What would happen?
Rosanna has resigned herself to having a loveless marriage. She thought it would be different; but Timothy changed after they married. He was happy when their son, Aaron, was born but very disappointed when their daughter, Celia, was born. In Timothy’s world, there were women’s chores and men’s chores and the two were never mixed. He was impatient and a mean alcoholic. Although it made things hard for the family, his death was a blessing and a relief.
Three years later, Rosanna thought she made a definitely different choice when she married Reuben. For the first time, she and her children were happy. Reuben treated them well and respected them. Then, things changed. What was going on? What would happen?
August 14, 2017
Good view of Amish life
I've long had an interest in the Amish way of life . I've read books featuring Amish characters by several authors . I've read Dale Cramer's the Daughters of Caleb Bender series , Jodi Picoult's Simple Truths and two of Sarah Price's books. I would say that Ms. Price gives the reader a good look into the Amish way of life . On the other hand, the other two authors listed here write more interesting stories . This book and the other I've read by Sarah Price are too simple and too long for such a simple story line. So if you want an understanding of Amish life , read her books. But if you want a good read with some (limited) insight into the Amish way of life , I would recommend Ms. Picoult.
I've long had an interest in the Amish way of life . I've read books featuring Amish characters by several authors . I've read Dale Cramer's the Daughters of Caleb Bender series , Jodi Picoult's Simple Truths and two of Sarah Price's books. I would say that Ms. Price gives the reader a good look into the Amish way of life . On the other hand, the other two authors listed here write more interesting stories . This book and the other I've read by Sarah Price are too simple and too long for such a simple story line. So if you want an understanding of Amish life , read her books. But if you want a good read with some (limited) insight into the Amish way of life , I would recommend Ms. Picoult.
June 1, 2020
No one is perfect!
This book dealt with some very real issues one does not associate with the Amish. Sometimes life can be overwhelming, even when one leans on God for support. And a very favorite saying of mine comes into this story. Life isn’t just about supporting, caring for, helping others. It is about allowing other to gift you as well.
We can’t always be in "give" mode. Our cups DO need refilling as well. Trying to run on empty simply doesn’t work. If you were a car, you would need gas and oil, or you wouldn’t get very far. God can keep us fueled, but we need others as well. Just as giving makes you feel good, allowing someone else to give and feel good is just as important.
This book dealt with some very real issues one does not associate with the Amish. Sometimes life can be overwhelming, even when one leans on God for support. And a very favorite saying of mine comes into this story. Life isn’t just about supporting, caring for, helping others. It is about allowing other to gift you as well.
We can’t always be in "give" mode. Our cups DO need refilling as well. Trying to run on empty simply doesn’t work. If you were a car, you would need gas and oil, or you wouldn’t get very far. God can keep us fueled, but we need others as well. Just as giving makes you feel good, allowing someone else to give and feel good is just as important.
December 28, 2018
This book was a relaxing read. I enjoyed Rebecca's character development and the realistic way in which change was slow for herself. I enjoyed her giving living nature and I felt connected to her. She was a Psalm woman but forget the importance of helping herself. Which in her goodness of heart is a virtue I wish I had in myself. The abusive relationship she was in with her first husband irked me to no end....lol I'm glad he died. Her second husband was a sweet godly man yet I found him annoying for not being a fierce protector of his family...when it came to Man or the smiths. Overall it was a good novel. An happy ending! I loved that she was able to heal as a character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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