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The Amish Classics #3
Second Chances: An Amish Retelling of Jane Austen's Persuasion
At twenty-five years of age, Anna Eicher has never married. When she was seventeen, her parents convinced her to break off her courtship with Freman Whittmore, the youngest son in the Whittmore family and her best friend. Afterward, a distraught Freman moved away from Lancaster County.
Eight years later Freman has returned to visit his sister, who is renting the Eichers’ house for the winter. Now the owner of the largest dairy farm in his church district, Freman has neither married—nor forgiven Anna.
Although he begins courting someone else, Anna hopes to convince him that she has never stopped loving him. Will Freman be persuaded to forgive Anna and open his heart again?
Eight years later Freman has returned to visit his sister, who is renting the Eichers’ house for the winter. Now the owner of the largest dairy farm in his church district, Freman has neither married—nor forgiven Anna.
Although he begins courting someone else, Anna hopes to convince him that she has never stopped loving him. Will Freman be persuaded to forgive Anna and open his heart again?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2015
45 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Price
135 books646 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)
-------------------------
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 52 reviews
August 11, 2022
jane austen i am so sorry
July 15, 2020
Perfect!! Honestly - this series is money in the bank! Hands down my favorite Jane Austen adaptations. They just go so perfectly together! A very faithful adaptation of Persuasion set in modern Pennsylvania in an Amish community. I won't summarize it because I will assume if you're reading this, you've already read Persuasion. What more could you want? The writing is good and everything. This is a series I will definitely read again!
December 23, 2016
I had trouble with this book, but then Jane Austen’s Persuasion was hard to read also. You know going in that it is a tragedy of the heart and that you will have to wade through it.
In reading the reviews, everyone wants to dump on Anna. You have to realize, she did not have her mother’s influence. After her mother’s death her older sister took on an authoritative roll over her and her younger sister. So not only did Anna lose her mother, she lost the fellowship of her sisters as well as the emotional connection with her father. The younger sister learned to get attention with negative inappropriate behavior, sulking, complaining, getting out of chores by feigning illness, etc. Anna, being the middle child, tried to keep things going by placating to the younger sister. It was easier to give in to her than to hear her complain.
Thus you have a pattern for life for everyone. The father in his grief failed his daughters by checking out emotionally, by not being economical and spending more than he should. That placed them in debt and in a position of seeking help from their church community if they did not change their financial situation.
Strength of character…she was only 17 when presented with a marriage proposal. Her father was against her marriage into such a family. Her mother’s best friend Lydia also persuaded her to not accept. She was not of an age to go against her family. She was underage, just newly baptized and thus felt she should follow the wishes of her father, as taught by the church.
Not sure if she had approached their bishop if his response would have been different. Oh, the grief she felt for the next eight years. It seemed more intense then in JA’s version. It seemed to go on forever, as well as her misunderstanding as to who was getting married.
There were parts I felt were missing and were not addressed, and threads left hanging. I don’t want to **spoiler** here so I won’t mention them. I just wonder what happened to a character(s) that was/were mentioned and then we hear no more of them.
I enjoyed the book; I just had to work really hard for it. I also was emotionally drained with all the angst Anna dealt with. I tried to realize the cultural setting and what influenced the characters to do what they did. I think in the end it was rushed and that is why there were threads left hanging.
In reading the reviews, everyone wants to dump on Anna. You have to realize, she did not have her mother’s influence. After her mother’s death her older sister took on an authoritative roll over her and her younger sister. So not only did Anna lose her mother, she lost the fellowship of her sisters as well as the emotional connection with her father. The younger sister learned to get attention with negative inappropriate behavior, sulking, complaining, getting out of chores by feigning illness, etc. Anna, being the middle child, tried to keep things going by placating to the younger sister. It was easier to give in to her than to hear her complain.
Thus you have a pattern for life for everyone. The father in his grief failed his daughters by checking out emotionally, by not being economical and spending more than he should. That placed them in debt and in a position of seeking help from their church community if they did not change their financial situation.
Strength of character…she was only 17 when presented with a marriage proposal. Her father was against her marriage into such a family. Her mother’s best friend Lydia also persuaded her to not accept. She was not of an age to go against her family. She was underage, just newly baptized and thus felt she should follow the wishes of her father, as taught by the church.
Not sure if she had approached their bishop if his response would have been different. Oh, the grief she felt for the next eight years. It seemed more intense then in JA’s version. It seemed to go on forever, as well as her misunderstanding as to who was getting married.
There were parts I felt were missing and were not addressed, and threads left hanging. I don’t want to **spoiler** here so I won’t mention them. I just wonder what happened to a character(s) that was/were mentioned and then we hear no more of them.
I enjoyed the book; I just had to work really hard for it. I also was emotionally drained with all the angst Anna dealt with. I tried to realize the cultural setting and what influenced the characters to do what they did. I think in the end it was rushed and that is why there were threads left hanging.
October 3, 2021
I skipped half of the book and went to the end. Still bored me to death. You can't mix the Persuasion era with an Amish culture. It just doesn't work, which Sarah Price proved.
I was generous giving it one star.
Sorry Sarah, I usually love all of your books. Please don't do this again.
I was generous giving it one star.
Sorry Sarah, I usually love all of your books. Please don't do this again.
July 24, 2015
Do you believe in second chances? A second chance to correct wrongs, to repair family relationships or friendships, to find love again?
This book held my attention from the very beginning. I literally could not put it down! I love reading stories that have characters so real you have people in your life that you can identify them with. Not to mention yourself! This is one of those stories!!
Best-selling author Sarah Price takes us to Ohio to spend time with the Eicher family. Father, William, is a widower with three daughters….Elizabeth, Anna, and Mary. With the death of his wife Anne, Anne’s best friend Lydia Rothberger made herself available for the girls to come to for advice.
Elizabeth, the oldest and most like William, took on the role of matriarch of the family. She was involved in decision making. Anna, the middle daughter, had a loving, servant heart like her mother. She is the family peacemaker. She abides by everyone’s wishes putting her own on the back burner. This trait has cost her dearly. The youngest, Mary, well…she’s just a brat! Mary is totally self-centered and without regard to the feeling of others.
Anna is torn between her love for Freeman and her duty of obedience to her father. William and Lydia had expressed their belief that Freeman’s family was not good enough. Anna chooses obedience and spends years living with regret and a broken heart. Other men have tried to court her but her broken heart belongs to Freeman.
While following the Eicher and Whittmore (Freeman’s family) families, we go through the ups and downs of all families…. heartache, love, forgiveness…
Do you believe in second chances? Do Anna and Freeman get a second chance at love or have they moved on?
This book held my attention from the very beginning. I literally could not put it down! I love reading stories that have characters so real you have people in your life that you can identify them with. Not to mention yourself! This is one of those stories!!
Best-selling author Sarah Price takes us to Ohio to spend time with the Eicher family. Father, William, is a widower with three daughters….Elizabeth, Anna, and Mary. With the death of his wife Anne, Anne’s best friend Lydia Rothberger made herself available for the girls to come to for advice.
Elizabeth, the oldest and most like William, took on the role of matriarch of the family. She was involved in decision making. Anna, the middle daughter, had a loving, servant heart like her mother. She is the family peacemaker. She abides by everyone’s wishes putting her own on the back burner. This trait has cost her dearly. The youngest, Mary, well…she’s just a brat! Mary is totally self-centered and without regard to the feeling of others.
Anna is torn between her love for Freeman and her duty of obedience to her father. William and Lydia had expressed their belief that Freeman’s family was not good enough. Anna chooses obedience and spends years living with regret and a broken heart. Other men have tried to court her but her broken heart belongs to Freeman.
While following the Eicher and Whittmore (Freeman’s family) families, we go through the ups and downs of all families…. heartache, love, forgiveness…
Do you believe in second chances? Do Anna and Freeman get a second chance at love or have they moved on?
May 7, 2015
One of my favorite Jane Austen novels has now been retold in an Amish setting and takes its place as one of my favorite Amish stories!
This retelling of Persuasion was very well done. The characters are both authentically Amish, yet the storyline stays true to the original Austen book. The author does a great job of changing various settings and events to become decidedly Amish, while keeping the original Austen storyline flowing.
I loved these characters! Anna Eicher and Freman Whittmore lost out on their first chance of love together and they need a second chance. However, the author builds in great tension throughout the book and Anna’s hurt is truly palpable. She struggles with her emotions as she has to be around Freman and is constantly reminded about what she gave up.
Austen was a master at creating complex characters and also adding in frustrating family members and situations they must deal with. Sarah Price captures that same essence in her retellings of these famous works. I enjoyed this story so much!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This retelling of Persuasion was very well done. The characters are both authentically Amish, yet the storyline stays true to the original Austen book. The author does a great job of changing various settings and events to become decidedly Amish, while keeping the original Austen storyline flowing.
I loved these characters! Anna Eicher and Freman Whittmore lost out on their first chance of love together and they need a second chance. However, the author builds in great tension throughout the book and Anna’s hurt is truly palpable. She struggles with her emotions as she has to be around Freman and is constantly reminded about what she gave up.
Austen was a master at creating complex characters and also adding in frustrating family members and situations they must deal with. Sarah Price captures that same essence in her retellings of these famous works. I enjoyed this story so much!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this retelling of 'Persuasion'. I thought the way the author brought the characters and storyline into an Amish setting was very well done. I also liked the little 'nod' to the Blank family, though was surprised to see that this novel was set before the events of 'First Impressions' (the first book in this series).
As a 'recovering people pleaser' myself, I really empathised with Anna's desire to please others, especially her family and honourary family member, Lydia. Throughout the events of the book, I could easily see how I, in my younger years, might have made similar choices. I'm so glad to say that Anna, as well as I, has realised that the only One Whom we need to be concerned with pleasing is God.
I really liked Freman, though we saw him only through Anna's eyes. From his care and concern for others, especially for Anna, it was easy to see that he was a man who truly tried his best to live out his faith in Jesus.
As a 'recovering people pleaser' myself, I really empathised with Anna's desire to please others, especially her family and honourary family member, Lydia. Throughout the events of the book, I could easily see how I, in my younger years, might have made similar choices. I'm so glad to say that Anna, as well as I, has realised that the only One Whom we need to be concerned with pleasing is God.
I really liked Freman, though we saw him only through Anna's eyes. From his care and concern for others, especially for Anna, it was easy to see that he was a man who truly tried his best to live out his faith in Jesus.
August 4, 2018
Sarah is wonderfully talented writer. However, I was deeply offended by the hand that natural treatment for cancer is not the way to go. As a three-time survivor never once using medical treatments, I know this is the Way to go, and a very valid choice. The suggestion that it is not was very offensive.
Also, no one should ever read any version of the Bible other than the King James version! Don’t believe me? Check out the end of acts. That is only one example of why the king James Bible is the very best version if you read in English.
So, while I love the writing of this author, I am deeply disappointed in some of the doctrine that are hinted at in her books.
Also, no one should ever read any version of the Bible other than the King James version! Don’t believe me? Check out the end of acts. That is only one example of why the king James Bible is the very best version if you read in English.
So, while I love the writing of this author, I am deeply disappointed in some of the doctrine that are hinted at in her books.
February 28, 2025
so angst….romantic
I must admit that “Persuasion” is my favorite Jane Austen story. Anne and Frederick just steel my heart. Sarah Price did an incredible job re-telling this beautiful story. Even though I knew how the story goes, I still waited with bated breath for the HEA. Anna and Freman in this book, pulled me in emotionally….so much angst….so much heartache until they finally make their way back to each other. The letter Freman writes Anna is so beautifully written….so romantic. I give this book, this love story, my highest recommendation! It is also a very inspirational book, emphasizing God’s great love for each of us. So awesome!
I must admit that “Persuasion” is my favorite Jane Austen story. Anne and Frederick just steel my heart. Sarah Price did an incredible job re-telling this beautiful story. Even though I knew how the story goes, I still waited with bated breath for the HEA. Anna and Freman in this book, pulled me in emotionally….so much angst….so much heartache until they finally make their way back to each other. The letter Freman writes Anna is so beautifully written….so romantic. I give this book, this love story, my highest recommendation! It is also a very inspirational book, emphasizing God’s great love for each of us. So awesome!
September 5, 2022
Ok, I don't even really like Jane Austen, but what I appreciate about her work is the depth of her writing and a strong social critique, neither of which is well-done here. True to the plot, sure, but really that is hugely missing the point of Persuasion. The writing was boring and many points felt very forced in their attempt to follow the plot of the original to a T. I guess if you read Jane Austen for the fundamentals of the plot and nothing else then you might like this one?? But really why not just read a more contemporary romance at that point? I should have DNF'd this one.
September 17, 2019
I won a copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. I am paying it forward by passing this book along to a family member who I think will enjoy it too.
January 11, 2024
“Persuasion” is my favorite Jane Austen novel, for personal reasons. So I always enjoy a good adaptation of the classic story. This was good. Not phenomenal, but it was sweet and pretty close to the original story.
May 12, 2024
Not a bad reimagining
Being very familiar with the Jane Austen version, this wasn't a bad adaptation. I think I see a bit of Anne/Anna in myself, which is probably why I like this story so much. I love a happy ending and this is one of my favorites.
Being very familiar with the Jane Austen version, this wasn't a bad adaptation. I think I see a bit of Anne/Anna in myself, which is probably why I like this story so much. I love a happy ending and this is one of my favorites.
April 11, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Sarah Price. It was a moving story and a sweet, though difficult, romance.
May 15, 2018
It was a nice story but very slow moving!
December 13, 2018
Cute and clean.
August 17, 2019
Love this retelling of Jane Austin's Persuasion!
October 8, 2019
Another great read! Loving this series!
December 14, 2020
This is a pleasant retelling of Persuasion within the Amish culture. For me it was satisfying.
January 15, 2023
This book got a little tiresome with Anna being such a wimp and her sister being so entitled.
Read
September 16, 2023Love. Mix of Austen and Amish. Kind of weird for arrogant Amish people, but just proves we are all human.
March 5, 2017
Second chances è il retelling in salsa Amish di Persuasione di Jane Austen. E' il romanzo che aspettavo di più tra tutti quelli scritti da Sarah Price, e forse proprio per questo motivo si è rivelato anche il più deludente. Leggendo, ho avuto la sensazione che fosse molto meno curato rispetto agli altri, scritto con meno attenzione.
Peccato, perché avevo trovato i romanzi precedenti molto interessanti e abbastanza appassionanti. Ma questo, dopo mesi dalla lettura, non mi ha lasciato nulla.
Protagonista è Anna, una ragazza che già a venticinque anni è considerata oramai senza speranze matrimoniali nel villaggio Amish di Holmes County in Ohio, dove vive con il padre e le sorelle dopo la prematura morte della madre.
Come la Anne del romanzo originale, anche Anna vive il grande dolore di aver rinunciato all'amore della sua vita e, probabilmente, ad ogni speranza di felicità, per assecondare la volontà del genitore e i consigli dell'amica di famiglia Lydia.
Il padre, una volta vedovo, si è dimostrato incapace di gestire la famiglia, sia emotivamente che economicamente, e si ritrova a dover chiedere soldi alla comunità per appianare i suoi debiti, proprio lo stesso motivo per il quale, otto anni prima, si era opposto al matrimonio della secondogenita con Freman Whittmore. Un contrappasso piuttosto azzeccato.
Il protagonista, dopo essersi trasferito a Lancaster County e poi in Indiana, torna in Ohio ormai ricco e in cerca di una moglie.
Il suo riavvicinamento ad Anna è graduale, così come il cambiamento della ragazza, che impara finalmente a preoccuparsi della sua vita e della sua felicità, piuttosto che dei bisogni dei suoi egoisti parenti.
L'ambientazione in un villaggio Amish è piuttosto adatta a questa storia, in quanto in tale cultura una ragazza dell'età di Anna - solo venticinque anni - quasi sicuramente non sarà mai né una moglie né una madre, ma di sicuro un peso in futuro per la sua famiglia, che si aspetta una sorta di "servaggio" silenzioso da parte sua.
Ammetto che leggere questo tipo di romanzi chiarisce molto come si viva all'interno di quelle comunità, e, almeno per quel che mi riguarda, contribuisce ad annullare del tutto l'equazione vita Amish = paradiso terrestre o giù di lì.
Ritornando al romanzo, ho trovato carino l'accenno ai "Bennet" del villaggio di Lancaster in Pennsylvania; l'autrice è stata brava nel delineare l'insensibilità di Lydia in poche battute, così come la solitudine e il mancato senso di appartenenza di Anna verso la sua casa, mentre mi sarebbe piaciuto poter "sbirciare" nella nuova residenza del padre e della sorella - il corrispettivo di Bath del romanzo originale -.
http://iltesorodicarta.blogspot.it/20...
Peccato, perché avevo trovato i romanzi precedenti molto interessanti e abbastanza appassionanti. Ma questo, dopo mesi dalla lettura, non mi ha lasciato nulla.
Protagonista è Anna, una ragazza che già a venticinque anni è considerata oramai senza speranze matrimoniali nel villaggio Amish di Holmes County in Ohio, dove vive con il padre e le sorelle dopo la prematura morte della madre.
Come la Anne del romanzo originale, anche Anna vive il grande dolore di aver rinunciato all'amore della sua vita e, probabilmente, ad ogni speranza di felicità, per assecondare la volontà del genitore e i consigli dell'amica di famiglia Lydia.
Il padre, una volta vedovo, si è dimostrato incapace di gestire la famiglia, sia emotivamente che economicamente, e si ritrova a dover chiedere soldi alla comunità per appianare i suoi debiti, proprio lo stesso motivo per il quale, otto anni prima, si era opposto al matrimonio della secondogenita con Freman Whittmore. Un contrappasso piuttosto azzeccato.
Il protagonista, dopo essersi trasferito a Lancaster County e poi in Indiana, torna in Ohio ormai ricco e in cerca di una moglie.
Il suo riavvicinamento ad Anna è graduale, così come il cambiamento della ragazza, che impara finalmente a preoccuparsi della sua vita e della sua felicità, piuttosto che dei bisogni dei suoi egoisti parenti.
L'ambientazione in un villaggio Amish è piuttosto adatta a questa storia, in quanto in tale cultura una ragazza dell'età di Anna - solo venticinque anni - quasi sicuramente non sarà mai né una moglie né una madre, ma di sicuro un peso in futuro per la sua famiglia, che si aspetta una sorta di "servaggio" silenzioso da parte sua.
Ammetto che leggere questo tipo di romanzi chiarisce molto come si viva all'interno di quelle comunità, e, almeno per quel che mi riguarda, contribuisce ad annullare del tutto l'equazione vita Amish = paradiso terrestre o giù di lì.
Ritornando al romanzo, ho trovato carino l'accenno ai "Bennet" del villaggio di Lancaster in Pennsylvania; l'autrice è stata brava nel delineare l'insensibilità di Lydia in poche battute, così come la solitudine e il mancato senso di appartenenza di Anna verso la sua casa, mentre mi sarebbe piaciuto poter "sbirciare" nella nuova residenza del padre e della sorella - il corrispettivo di Bath del romanzo originale -.
http://iltesorodicarta.blogspot.it/20...
May 26, 2015
Do family members walk over you? Are you a push-over person?? Do you have a hard time telling others "NO"?
Well then, this is the book for you to read!
Eight years prior, Anna Eicher was courting Freman Whittmore, but before announcements could be made public to their Amish church district, Anna called off their engagement, due to Lydia Rothberger speaking on behalf of Anna's father that Anna and Freman's marriage shouldn't happen.
Anna Eicher is currently twenty-five years old living in an Amish community in Ohio. Anna's family and family friend, Lydia Rothberger, are once again making decisions for the whole family and asking Anna for her opinions, she does give them, but not what she wants deep down in her heart, but what others' want to hear.
Anna has not known what had become of Freman Whittmore over the last eight years, until shortly after Anna moving in with her younger sister's family's home to live and help with her two young nephews.
Freman Whittmore moved from Charm, Ohio eight years ago to his aunt's home in Lancaster County, PA, and then later to Indiana. His return to Ohio is to do one thing, find a wife. With his sister and brother-in-law renting Eicher's place he wasn't sure if he would see Anna or not.
Who will Freman marry? Will another man have intentions for Anna?
I can't tell you the answer to those questions and more, but you can by reading the book and finding the answers to them.
Sarah Price's version of Jane Austin's books to me are so much better to read. Why? I feel Sarah Price's version are better to read because Price's books flow, easier to follow along in what you are reading from the pages even if they are adapted to the Amish. Still fictional but based around the Amish way of life, beliefs, and community.
I am glad Anna was looking out for her two nephews. I wished Anna had stood up for herself more, but then the events in the books would not have happened if she had. I plan to read more books written by Sarah Price.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. No money was exchanged and this is all my opinion in my own words.
Well then, this is the book for you to read!
Eight years prior, Anna Eicher was courting Freman Whittmore, but before announcements could be made public to their Amish church district, Anna called off their engagement, due to Lydia Rothberger speaking on behalf of Anna's father that Anna and Freman's marriage shouldn't happen.
Anna Eicher is currently twenty-five years old living in an Amish community in Ohio. Anna's family and family friend, Lydia Rothberger, are once again making decisions for the whole family and asking Anna for her opinions, she does give them, but not what she wants deep down in her heart, but what others' want to hear.
Anna has not known what had become of Freman Whittmore over the last eight years, until shortly after Anna moving in with her younger sister's family's home to live and help with her two young nephews.
Freman Whittmore moved from Charm, Ohio eight years ago to his aunt's home in Lancaster County, PA, and then later to Indiana. His return to Ohio is to do one thing, find a wife. With his sister and brother-in-law renting Eicher's place he wasn't sure if he would see Anna or not.
Who will Freman marry? Will another man have intentions for Anna?
I can't tell you the answer to those questions and more, but you can by reading the book and finding the answers to them.
Sarah Price's version of Jane Austin's books to me are so much better to read. Why? I feel Sarah Price's version are better to read because Price's books flow, easier to follow along in what you are reading from the pages even if they are adapted to the Amish. Still fictional but based around the Amish way of life, beliefs, and community.
I am glad Anna was looking out for her two nephews. I wished Anna had stood up for herself more, but then the events in the books would not have happened if she had. I plan to read more books written by Sarah Price.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. No money was exchanged and this is all my opinion in my own words.
June 8, 2015
The story of Anna and Freman is filled with anguish and loss, but underlying hope lingers. Anna's controlling family has essentially stolen her freedom and any opportunity for happiness. Although 8 years has passed since she broke off her courtship with Freman at her family's insistence, heartbreak and melancholy remain her constant companions.
Unexpectedly Freman returns to Ohio, and Anna is forced to face her feelings, and her hopes and dreams that a second chance with Freman may be possible. In keeping with Jane Austen's book, "Persuasion," Sarah Price has created an Amish version of this memorable story, and added her own flare.
Anna's character reflects the Amish lifestyle of meeting the demands and responsibilities of her family, but has her lack of fortitude cost her a future of love and happiness? After her mother's death she allowed her father and Aunt Lydia to dictate her future, causing her to lose the love of her life. The author has developed Anna's character to reflect authenticity and a deeply emotional reflection. The story flows in tandem with Austen's "Persuasion," and is exquisite in detail!
Anna continues to allow others to dictate how she lives her life, and unhappiness accompanies her days. This personality trait of feeling obligated to please others at her own expense is representative of how many of us go through life, denying our own needs and desires in order to help others achieve their goals.
"Second Chances" is Sarah Price's finest! The detailing is impeccable and the story flows seamlessly. I was completely captivated by this book, from the very beginning to the end. I highly recommend this poignant and masterfully written Amish representation of Austen's "Persuasion."
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Unexpectedly Freman returns to Ohio, and Anna is forced to face her feelings, and her hopes and dreams that a second chance with Freman may be possible. In keeping with Jane Austen's book, "Persuasion," Sarah Price has created an Amish version of this memorable story, and added her own flare.
Anna's character reflects the Amish lifestyle of meeting the demands and responsibilities of her family, but has her lack of fortitude cost her a future of love and happiness? After her mother's death she allowed her father and Aunt Lydia to dictate her future, causing her to lose the love of her life. The author has developed Anna's character to reflect authenticity and a deeply emotional reflection. The story flows in tandem with Austen's "Persuasion," and is exquisite in detail!
Anna continues to allow others to dictate how she lives her life, and unhappiness accompanies her days. This personality trait of feeling obligated to please others at her own expense is representative of how many of us go through life, denying our own needs and desires in order to help others achieve their goals.
"Second Chances" is Sarah Price's finest! The detailing is impeccable and the story flows seamlessly. I was completely captivated by this book, from the very beginning to the end. I highly recommend this poignant and masterfully written Amish representation of Austen's "Persuasion."
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
May 24, 2015
A Totally Classic Tale!
In Second Chances, masterful storyteller Sarah Price pens a delightful retelling of the classic tale of Jane Austen's Persuasion harmoniously intermingled with the Amish! The Amish community in Ohio where lovely Anna Eicher resides is peaceful, and beautifully replete with rolling hills and white picket fences, grazing Guernsey cows, and red barns with lofty silos. But life also has its problems and heartaches as Anna knows all too well.
It's been eight long years since Anna broke up with Freman Whittmore, the man of her dreams, and nary a night has gone by that she has not spilled tears on her pillow from the pain of their separation. She had allowed her father and a close family friend to persuade her to break it off with Freman on the grounds that he was not good enough for her. Freman moves to Indiana and becomes quite successful, and much to Anna's amazement returns after lo these many years to find a wife. Anna patiently looks after her complaining sister's children, still pleasing her family at the expense of her own happiness. Watching Freman and her close friend, Leah, flirting and spending time together just adds to her misery. Will Anna ever learn the valuable lesson of saying "no" to people and yes to God?...and will the God of second chances grant her just one more?
Readers everywhere will fall in love with the frustrating Anna, who in her inability to say "no" to others, brings much heartache upon her own self. At times I wanted to shake her and say, "Stop doing this!!", but realizing she couldn't brought a tear to my eye. An eloquent tale of family, forgiveness, second chances, and a surprise twist at the end -- this is one that will long be remembered even after the last sigh-worthy page is turned!
"If a book is well written I always find it too short." ~Jane Austen~
In Second Chances, masterful storyteller Sarah Price pens a delightful retelling of the classic tale of Jane Austen's Persuasion harmoniously intermingled with the Amish! The Amish community in Ohio where lovely Anna Eicher resides is peaceful, and beautifully replete with rolling hills and white picket fences, grazing Guernsey cows, and red barns with lofty silos. But life also has its problems and heartaches as Anna knows all too well.
It's been eight long years since Anna broke up with Freman Whittmore, the man of her dreams, and nary a night has gone by that she has not spilled tears on her pillow from the pain of their separation. She had allowed her father and a close family friend to persuade her to break it off with Freman on the grounds that he was not good enough for her. Freman moves to Indiana and becomes quite successful, and much to Anna's amazement returns after lo these many years to find a wife. Anna patiently looks after her complaining sister's children, still pleasing her family at the expense of her own happiness. Watching Freman and her close friend, Leah, flirting and spending time together just adds to her misery. Will Anna ever learn the valuable lesson of saying "no" to people and yes to God?...and will the God of second chances grant her just one more?
Readers everywhere will fall in love with the frustrating Anna, who in her inability to say "no" to others, brings much heartache upon her own self. At times I wanted to shake her and say, "Stop doing this!!", but realizing she couldn't brought a tear to my eye. An eloquent tale of family, forgiveness, second chances, and a surprise twist at the end -- this is one that will long be remembered even after the last sigh-worthy page is turned!
"If a book is well written I always find it too short." ~Jane Austen~
March 5, 2015
A moving love story once told by Jane Austin and now by master storyteller Sarah Price. One in old time England, and the other in the American Amish Community, the same and yet very different telling of the same story.
From the beginning of the retold story we meet Anna Eicher, and we feel the heartbreak that she is feeling when she gives her love Freeman Whittemore his walking papers. Not because she doesn’t love him, but because her family disapproves, mainly her father.
Eight years go by and we find Anna not really living a life of her own, she has never married and now more or less living as a maid for her sister Mary. This girl needs a backbone, and is severely lacking in her own life.
Enter Freeman visiting now from Indiana, and seems to be looking for a wife, he also has never married. Circumstances seem to put Anna and Freeman together, but he is interested in Mary’s sister-in-law Leah.
All of a sudden there seems to be several men interested in Anna, and I wondered if she will end up in Lancaster PA? Or with the pushy distant cousin who seems to be interested.
We get an in-depth look at Amish family life, and the submissiveness of the children to their parents, but at what cost? I don’t agree with some of the actions of these characters toward the youngsters, and thank goodness others are looking out for them.
Will there ever be any happiness for Anna, or will she be stuck as Mary’s helper, and you will wonder what Mary will ever do without her. Will Freeman ever settle down and have his own life as a family man. These and other questions are answered, and we have an epilogue at the end, which I love. Enjoy!
I received this book from the Author, and was not required to give a positive review.
From the beginning of the retold story we meet Anna Eicher, and we feel the heartbreak that she is feeling when she gives her love Freeman Whittemore his walking papers. Not because she doesn’t love him, but because her family disapproves, mainly her father.
Eight years go by and we find Anna not really living a life of her own, she has never married and now more or less living as a maid for her sister Mary. This girl needs a backbone, and is severely lacking in her own life.
Enter Freeman visiting now from Indiana, and seems to be looking for a wife, he also has never married. Circumstances seem to put Anna and Freeman together, but he is interested in Mary’s sister-in-law Leah.
All of a sudden there seems to be several men interested in Anna, and I wondered if she will end up in Lancaster PA? Or with the pushy distant cousin who seems to be interested.
We get an in-depth look at Amish family life, and the submissiveness of the children to their parents, but at what cost? I don’t agree with some of the actions of these characters toward the youngsters, and thank goodness others are looking out for them.
Will there ever be any happiness for Anna, or will she be stuck as Mary’s helper, and you will wonder what Mary will ever do without her. Will Freeman ever settle down and have his own life as a family man. These and other questions are answered, and we have an epilogue at the end, which I love. Enjoy!
I received this book from the Author, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 24, 2015
Have you ever wanted to please everyone around you so much that you lost yourself? Have you took their advice to make them happy and found yourself miserable? Have you ever made a decision and immediately knew you would regret that decision forever? These are issues our main character, Anna, was contemplating in Second Chances. I really connected with Anna. I think many people have struggled making others happy at the risk of losing themselves and their own happiness. Anna’s sisters and father took her for granted never stopping to think of her sacrifice nor the love she has shown them. It was just what was expected of her and she always did met those expectations because she loved them.
What I love about Sarah Price’s writing is there is always something I can apply to my own life after reading her books. Second Chances left me contemplating the fine line between love and sacrifice for your family and letting your family take advantage of you. There were places where I felt as if Sarah was writing my story. Sarah has a such a way of writing that it draws you in and you can see the world through her characters eyes.
Sarah does a wonderful job retelling Jane Austen’s Persuasion yet stays true to the Amish culture. The themes of love, forgiveness and mercy are beautifully intertwined into this charming story. I could not put Second Chances down from the time I picked up. This must be on your summers TBR list.
I give Second Chances 5 out of 5 stars. This is Sarah at her best. My favorite book so far!
Thank you to Sarah Price for a free copy of her book. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
What I love about Sarah Price’s writing is there is always something I can apply to my own life after reading her books. Second Chances left me contemplating the fine line between love and sacrifice for your family and letting your family take advantage of you. There were places where I felt as if Sarah was writing my story. Sarah has a such a way of writing that it draws you in and you can see the world through her characters eyes.
Sarah does a wonderful job retelling Jane Austen’s Persuasion yet stays true to the Amish culture. The themes of love, forgiveness and mercy are beautifully intertwined into this charming story. I could not put Second Chances down from the time I picked up. This must be on your summers TBR list.
I give Second Chances 5 out of 5 stars. This is Sarah at her best. My favorite book so far!
Thank you to Sarah Price for a free copy of her book. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
May 10, 2023
I continue to be in awe of Sarah Price's talented abilities to pen Amish stories unlike any other on the market. Before picking up the titles in her Amish Classics series, I never would have been able to imagine the idea of mixing the Amish fiction genre with Jane's Austen's beloved tales, and yet I've thoroughly enjoyed each of the titles I've read within this series so far. I love how they manage to stay true to both the genre itself, and Jane's classic novels at the same time.
I was especially excited picking this one up, as I couldn't wait to see Persuasion adapted to fit within this particular genre. I was definitely not left disappointed, and I kind of wish the real world could have ceased to exist for a couple of hours so I could have just read this one straight through in one sitting.
All of the things us longtime readers of Jane Austen have come to know and love were effortlessly transported to the Amish genre, and it was refreshing to read about the second chance romance between "Anna and Freman", the snobbery of Anna's father and eldest sister, and the cringe worthy antics of everyone's least favorite character, Mary.
This was another delightful addition to a wonderful series, and I adored it from start to finish.
I'm so thankful I discovered Sarah Price's beautiful stories a couple of years back, and I continue to enjoy working my way through her many available titles.
Final Rating: 4/5.
I would highly recommend this one, especially if you're a fan of either Jane Austen or Amish fiction.
I was especially excited picking this one up, as I couldn't wait to see Persuasion adapted to fit within this particular genre. I was definitely not left disappointed, and I kind of wish the real world could have ceased to exist for a couple of hours so I could have just read this one straight through in one sitting.
All of the things us longtime readers of Jane Austen have come to know and love were effortlessly transported to the Amish genre, and it was refreshing to read about the second chance romance between "Anna and Freman", the snobbery of Anna's father and eldest sister, and the cringe worthy antics of everyone's least favorite character, Mary.
This was another delightful addition to a wonderful series, and I adored it from start to finish.
I'm so thankful I discovered Sarah Price's beautiful stories a couple of years back, and I continue to enjoy working my way through her many available titles.
Final Rating: 4/5.
I would highly recommend this one, especially if you're a fan of either Jane Austen or Amish fiction.
June 21, 2015
"Second Chances"
By Sarah Price
Another winning novel by Sarah Price!! It happens to be the best of the best!! I must apologize as I am not in the best of health at the moment, that I intended to write a complete review, however, find myself at a loss. I have no energy to do so.
BUT I cannnot let this great book go by without some fanfare.
I did write an endorsement for Sarah that appears in the front of the book, which follows:
Sarah Price has once again written a book with a meaningful message. The theme of forgiveness and the ability to overcome, with God's direction, is evident throughout the intricate plot. Again, Sarah has used her unique talent to develop characters that are realistic and somewhat quirky individuals who appeal to the reader's emotions and sense of humor. Indeed, they become part of you. As you get lost in the plot, everyday life will be forgotten, and you will find yourself transported to this small Amish community. "Second Chances" is yet another Sarah Price book that will live on in your thoughts long after you finish reading!
This book was supplied in exchange for a fair and honest review.
By Sarah Price
Another winning novel by Sarah Price!! It happens to be the best of the best!! I must apologize as I am not in the best of health at the moment, that I intended to write a complete review, however, find myself at a loss. I have no energy to do so.
BUT I cannnot let this great book go by without some fanfare.
I did write an endorsement for Sarah that appears in the front of the book, which follows:
Sarah Price has once again written a book with a meaningful message. The theme of forgiveness and the ability to overcome, with God's direction, is evident throughout the intricate plot. Again, Sarah has used her unique talent to develop characters that are realistic and somewhat quirky individuals who appeal to the reader's emotions and sense of humor. Indeed, they become part of you. As you get lost in the plot, everyday life will be forgotten, and you will find yourself transported to this small Amish community. "Second Chances" is yet another Sarah Price book that will live on in your thoughts long after you finish reading!
This book was supplied in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 28, 2015
No one writes a Jane Austin re-telling like Sarah Price!
First Impressions: An Amish Tale of Pride and Prejudice (Amish Classics #1)
The Matchmaker: A re-telling of Emma (Amish Classics #2)
Second Chances: A re-telling of Persuasion (Amish Classics #3)
Ms. Price is just amazing… I have read the titles shown above – and I have learned that book #4 – Sense and Sensibility – will be released next year, and I’m so excited about this series!
Honestly, when you begin reading, the story doesn’t immediately remind you of Persuasion, but keep reading… you’ll see it.
Anna Eicher and Freman Whittmore… well, I admit it broke my heart when she told him she couldn’t marry him, but Anna’s hurt was so tangible, I truly felt her misery as she struggled with being reminded of what she gave up whenever she was around him.
Sarah Price is a genius at creating complex characters and frustrating family members – it began with First Impressions and she’s still doing a marvelous job. While the characters are authentically Amish, Ms. Price does a superb job showing the Amish ways, yet the original Jane Austen story shines through!
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