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The Bishop's Family #1
The Imposter
Katrina Stoltzfus needs time to heal her broken heart. What she doesn't need is attention from Andy Miller, a farm hand who always seems to say the right thing, and be in the right place, at the right time. Is Andy for real, or too good to be true?
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2015
About the author
Suzanne Woods Fisher
74 books4,163 followersSuzanne Woods Fisher is a Christy finalist, a Carol and Selah winner, a two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, and Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of more than forty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances, and Amish fiction.
She and her husband live in a small town in California. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young (plus, they all provide grit for the oyster).
Visit Suzanne on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
She and her husband live in a small town in California. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young (plus, they all provide grit for the oyster).
Visit Suzanne on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
August 26, 2015
I think I've finally recognized why Suzanne Woods Fisher is my favorite author of Amish fiction. She focuses on family relationships, her characters are realistically flawed, and despite the imperfections and conflict they experience, there is an undercurrent of hope and a message of peace found in submitting to God. All these elements are woven together so seamlessly in The Imposter. It is not obvious who in the small Amish community fit the title, and by the end of the story there are some unexpected outcomes.
My favorite character was Katrina's father, David. As the minister he has a grounded perspective on Amish life, and a special compassion and concern for the members of the church. He struggles with the changes the new bishop is implementing, but receives support from an unlikely source in the bishop's sister Birdy. She is another favorite with her cheerful and thoughtful personality full of hidden depths.
We get to know the children of David's family and several members of the community, but I never felt overwhelmed. Each character in the cast moved the story forward in a lovely balance of various points of view. While the book wrapped up nicely, there are continuing story lines that will draw us in to the next book in the series, The Quieting. I already can't wait to read it!
(Thank you to Revell Publishing and Celebrate Lit Publicity for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
My favorite character was Katrina's father, David. As the minister he has a grounded perspective on Amish life, and a special compassion and concern for the members of the church. He struggles with the changes the new bishop is implementing, but receives support from an unlikely source in the bishop's sister Birdy. She is another favorite with her cheerful and thoughtful personality full of hidden depths.
We get to know the children of David's family and several members of the community, but I never felt overwhelmed. Each character in the cast moved the story forward in a lovely balance of various points of view. While the book wrapped up nicely, there are continuing story lines that will draw us in to the next book in the series, The Quieting. I already can't wait to read it!
(Thank you to Revell Publishing and Celebrate Lit Publicity for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
October 4, 2016
The Imposter
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Received from Netgalley for an honest review.
THE IMPOSTER is the first book in The Bishop's Family series.
I've always loved reading Suzanne Woods Fisher's stories and THE IMPOSTER is exactly why. None of her characters are perfect, they all have flaws or secrets and that makes them very relatable. There is a new preacher in Stoney Ridge and it is David Stolzfus. He has been a widow for only a year and looks at Stoney Ridge as a place for a new start for himself as well as his children. He tells Elmo, the bishop that he thinks of Stoney Ridge as The Garden of Eden. Bishop Elmo tells him to be careful. He says there is a snake in the garden. You won't believe who it is!
David's daughter, Katrina is nursing a broken heart. Her boyfriend has devastated her by telling her he doesn't love her anymore. He is now engaged to someone else and at the same time, Katrina has a big secret and she can't tell anyone! She goes to work on Moss Hill and meets Andy, the caretaker. They agree to become friends and nothing more. Well, you know how that goes right? THE IMPOSTER is filled with secrets, lies, second chances, and love. I was holding my breath at certain parts, afraid of what was coming next.
THE IMPOSTER is also filled with twists and turns and when you get caught up on all that is going on like I did, it will be a very quick read. At times I felt like I was riding a roller coaster with all of my emotions I was feeling. One minute I was happy one minute sad. Then the next thing I knew I was almost in tears. Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite Amish authors and I love devouring her books. I'm excited for the next book in this series, The Quieting, to see what my new Amish friends are up to.
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Received from Netgalley for an honest review.
THE IMPOSTER is the first book in The Bishop's Family series.
I've always loved reading Suzanne Woods Fisher's stories and THE IMPOSTER is exactly why. None of her characters are perfect, they all have flaws or secrets and that makes them very relatable. There is a new preacher in Stoney Ridge and it is David Stolzfus. He has been a widow for only a year and looks at Stoney Ridge as a place for a new start for himself as well as his children. He tells Elmo, the bishop that he thinks of Stoney Ridge as The Garden of Eden. Bishop Elmo tells him to be careful. He says there is a snake in the garden. You won't believe who it is!
David's daughter, Katrina is nursing a broken heart. Her boyfriend has devastated her by telling her he doesn't love her anymore. He is now engaged to someone else and at the same time, Katrina has a big secret and she can't tell anyone! She goes to work on Moss Hill and meets Andy, the caretaker. They agree to become friends and nothing more. Well, you know how that goes right? THE IMPOSTER is filled with secrets, lies, second chances, and love. I was holding my breath at certain parts, afraid of what was coming next.
THE IMPOSTER is also filled with twists and turns and when you get caught up on all that is going on like I did, it will be a very quick read. At times I felt like I was riding a roller coaster with all of my emotions I was feeling. One minute I was happy one minute sad. Then the next thing I knew I was almost in tears. Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite Amish authors and I love devouring her books. I'm excited for the next book in this series, The Quieting, to see what my new Amish friends are up to.
March 26, 2016
Complete review at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/1UQ6IGX
Read any book by Suzanne Woods Fisher and you will discover a gold mine, for hidden gems await you that can’t be readily seen on the surface. Rich characterization will always be found, but it goes much deeper than that. I think the best way to describe Suzanne’s writing is that she has her finger on the very heartbeat of life – joys, sorrows, dreams, heartbreaks, longings, temptation – all beautifully conveyed through the daily life of her characters.
The Imposter, book #1 in The Bishop’s Family series, brings us back to Stoney Ridge and familiar characters that we’ve come to love. Suzanne’s skilled writing flows effortless across the page and is filled with all the emotion, humor, unexpected twists, and spiritual depth that are signatures of her stories. While definitely entertaining to Amish fans, its appeal extends to any reader who enjoys a character-driven story that confronts life in a realistic way.
One strength of The Imposter is its vivid characterization, for Suzanne has a gift for describing this ensemble cast in a way that firmly implants them in your memory. Here are just a few interesting people you will meet . . .
--Hank Lapp, a wild-eyed fellow, who always seemed slightly off-kilter
--Edith Fisher, “a woman who didn’t like the wind to blow unless she told it which way to go”
--Five elderly sisters from the Sisters’ House who “had lived together for so many years that they had grown to resemble each other, wizened and bent as apostrophes and nearly telegraphic in their talk”
--Freeman Glick, who “always looked freshly ironed, with a touch of starch. Not his clothing; Freeman himself.” Freeman “would never let God interfere with the running of the church.”
--Birdy Glick, always cheerful, “liked by all but loved by none”
There are so many wonderful relational themes, particularly between Katrina and Andy, but David and Birdy would have to be my favorites. David stands out to me, personally and also as the type of spiritual leader that the world needs more of – quiet, compassionate, humble, a man who listened to others, especially his children, and could admit when he’d been wrong. Birdy was “an unadorned woman whose simplicity and good-heartedness made anyone else seem artificial and hard. He (David) felt as if he was waking up after a long winter’s nap to find that spring had arrived.”
Amidst all this are the spiritual gems that Suzanne seamlessly weaves throughout. It always amazes me how, for a people devoted to God and community, the Amish can be so gossipy and condemning of the spiritually wounded – and therein lies a message for all of us. But it’s the theme of God revealed in His creation that always touches me most in Suzanne’s stories. Particularly memorable is the scene where Birdy and David were watching a hawk in flight, “not fighting the wind, but embracing it. Recognizing it as God’s presence, engulfing us.”
The Imposter goes on my “best of the best” list, and I not-so-patiently await book #2, The Quieting, which releases in April.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Revell for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read any book by Suzanne Woods Fisher and you will discover a gold mine, for hidden gems await you that can’t be readily seen on the surface. Rich characterization will always be found, but it goes much deeper than that. I think the best way to describe Suzanne’s writing is that she has her finger on the very heartbeat of life – joys, sorrows, dreams, heartbreaks, longings, temptation – all beautifully conveyed through the daily life of her characters.
The Imposter, book #1 in The Bishop’s Family series, brings us back to Stoney Ridge and familiar characters that we’ve come to love. Suzanne’s skilled writing flows effortless across the page and is filled with all the emotion, humor, unexpected twists, and spiritual depth that are signatures of her stories. While definitely entertaining to Amish fans, its appeal extends to any reader who enjoys a character-driven story that confronts life in a realistic way.
One strength of The Imposter is its vivid characterization, for Suzanne has a gift for describing this ensemble cast in a way that firmly implants them in your memory. Here are just a few interesting people you will meet . . .
--Hank Lapp, a wild-eyed fellow, who always seemed slightly off-kilter
--Edith Fisher, “a woman who didn’t like the wind to blow unless she told it which way to go”
--Five elderly sisters from the Sisters’ House who “had lived together for so many years that they had grown to resemble each other, wizened and bent as apostrophes and nearly telegraphic in their talk”
--Freeman Glick, who “always looked freshly ironed, with a touch of starch. Not his clothing; Freeman himself.” Freeman “would never let God interfere with the running of the church.”
--Birdy Glick, always cheerful, “liked by all but loved by none”
There are so many wonderful relational themes, particularly between Katrina and Andy, but David and Birdy would have to be my favorites. David stands out to me, personally and also as the type of spiritual leader that the world needs more of – quiet, compassionate, humble, a man who listened to others, especially his children, and could admit when he’d been wrong. Birdy was “an unadorned woman whose simplicity and good-heartedness made anyone else seem artificial and hard. He (David) felt as if he was waking up after a long winter’s nap to find that spring had arrived.”
Amidst all this are the spiritual gems that Suzanne seamlessly weaves throughout. It always amazes me how, for a people devoted to God and community, the Amish can be so gossipy and condemning of the spiritually wounded – and therein lies a message for all of us. But it’s the theme of God revealed in His creation that always touches me most in Suzanne’s stories. Particularly memorable is the scene where Birdy and David were watching a hawk in flight, “not fighting the wind, but embracing it. Recognizing it as God’s presence, engulfing us.”
The Imposter goes on my “best of the best” list, and I not-so-patiently await book #2, The Quieting, which releases in April.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Revell for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 14, 2015
You know what I was thinking when I closed the final page of this story? "If these were real people, I'd become Amish too, just to live among them." That's how much I loved these characters! Now, if you read the back of the book you might think that Katrina and Andy are the primary characters and so expect them to be your favourite. But while I found each of them to be wonderful characters in their own right, it is really Birdy who stole the show for me. Already considered an old maid in the Amish community, Birdy is convinced that no one will ever really love her enough to want to marry her. Because of this, she turns into a bundle of nerves every time she even comes near Katrina's father, David Stolzfus. Most people in their community are used to just passing her by without giving her much thought. And yet it is Birdy who captured my attention in this story as she discovers the gifts she has and the place God has given her. It was Birdy's story that brought tears to my eyes in the final pages of the book, and I dare you to keep your own eyes dry!
"The Imposter" is character-driven writing at its best, as this story will not only have you falling in love with the characters, but will hold you captive as you encounter one twist and turn after another.
You will enjoy encountering the nuances of the Amish culture, but you will also see yourself in their struggles and failures. You will encounter grace and forgiveness, and just want to linger among them for awhile.
Quite possibly, this is my favourite Fisher book yet! I highly recommend this novel and award it 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
"The Imposter" is character-driven writing at its best, as this story will not only have you falling in love with the characters, but will hold you captive as you encounter one twist and turn after another.
You will enjoy encountering the nuances of the Amish culture, but you will also see yourself in their struggles and failures. You will encounter grace and forgiveness, and just want to linger among them for awhile.
Quite possibly, this is my favourite Fisher book yet! I highly recommend this novel and award it 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
December 28, 2015
Suzanne Woods Fisher writes the kind of Amish fiction I love to read. Charming but realistic characters (flaws and all!), humor, heart, and truth I can apply to my own life. She weaves subtle humor between profound truths and packages it all in an engaging style that keeps readers absorbed from cover to cover. The reminder to let God write your story is one that anybody – Amish, non-Amish, even someone just curious about Jesus – can embrace and take to heart. The cleverly-selected title, which could be applied to any number of people in Stoney Ridge, adds yet another dimension to the talented writing style evident throughout.
Each character in The Imposter adds strength to the novel in his/her own way and ensures that readers will be waiting impatiently for the next installment in the series! Speaking of next installments, while a thread or two of this particular storyline was tied up nicely by the end of the book, there are still several open-ended subplots going on that left me gobbling up the teaser preview for The Quieting included in the back. Is it May yet? ;)
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Each character in The Imposter adds strength to the novel in his/her own way and ensures that readers will be waiting impatiently for the next installment in the series! Speaking of next installments, while a thread or two of this particular storyline was tied up nicely by the end of the book, there are still several open-ended subplots going on that left me gobbling up the teaser preview for The Quieting included in the back. Is it May yet? ;)
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Read
June 3, 2015This review is also posted on Book by Book.
By now, when I pick up a book by Suzanne Woods Fisher, I know I’m going to enjoy it - so it comes as no surprise to me how much I loved her newest novel, The Imposter. The beginning of a new series in the familiar town of Stoney Ridge, this novel offers its readers both familiar and new characters, exploring a various storylines with emotional twists and turns. A wonderful read for fans of Amish fiction, The Imposter is a novel I would not have a hard time recommending. It’s an enjoyable read and has me looking forward to seeing where the Bishop’s Family series goes next.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of The Imposter and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
By now, when I pick up a book by Suzanne Woods Fisher, I know I’m going to enjoy it - so it comes as no surprise to me how much I loved her newest novel, The Imposter. The beginning of a new series in the familiar town of Stoney Ridge, this novel offers its readers both familiar and new characters, exploring a various storylines with emotional twists and turns. A wonderful read for fans of Amish fiction, The Imposter is a novel I would not have a hard time recommending. It’s an enjoyable read and has me looking forward to seeing where the Bishop’s Family series goes next.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of The Imposter and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 28, 2016
Amish/Mennonite Fiction with a couple of exceptions (Jolina Petersheim and Bob Hostetler) is not a genre I typically read. However, I won two Amish Fiction books as part of a book bundle so wanted to give this series a try. While I was not awash in pleasure while reading The Imposter, it was a good novel.
In the Imposter, David is a widowed minister trying to maintain integrity in Stoney Ridge. His son Jesse is getting into trouble while trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. David's daughter Katrina is also trying to find her path in life after a buggy accident which killed her mother. David's struggles in the church were believable and he handled them well. Katrina's story had a rather large surprise and I was hitting internet search engines after nearly dropping the book in that part of the novel.
I'll continue their story in The Quieting.
In the Imposter, David is a widowed minister trying to maintain integrity in Stoney Ridge. His son Jesse is getting into trouble while trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. David's daughter Katrina is also trying to find her path in life after a buggy accident which killed her mother. David's struggles in the church were believable and he handled them well. Katrina's story had a rather large surprise and I was hitting internet search engines after nearly dropping the book in that part of the novel.
I'll continue their story in The Quieting.
February 20, 2017
This book was okay. My favorite character is Birdie. I also liked David. I hope that Birdie gets her HEA. Those are the only two characters that I liked. If I had liked more of the characters in this book, I would have liked this story more. I was surprised by some of the topics that were in this story. It made the story interesting enough for me to finish this book.
April 10, 2017
I loved this book. This is the story of the Bishop's family. Their loves and losses, their human faults and their attributes. I am going to read the next book in this series right now. I highly recommend this book
July 2, 2018
This is certainly an unusual Amish romance. A young woman is expecting a baby without being married - and everyone swivels to look when she comes to church. A family make a living from harvesting moss on their wooded farm, which is nicely described in some detail. And a man carries knuckledusters, deals with a gambler and crook. A girl uses a pea-shooter secretly in school. Upon the preacher telling everyone that if they are to be Amish they must do it wholeheartedly, several young men drop out of baptism classes. The district leaders apparently can come around and scrutinise accounts.
I did find the jumping back and forth a little hard to follow and still empathise with the characters. The tale is interesting and will amuse.
I downloaded an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
I did find the jumping back and forth a little hard to follow and still empathise with the characters. The tale is interesting and will amuse.
I downloaded an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
September 17, 2020
Normally I am all in on Amish fiction but this one just didn't do it for me. I don't know if my "belief" was suspended by all the modern conveniences (washing machines, pregnancy tests, bobby pins, etc.) or if I just didn't love any of the characters. Our sweet and innocent protagonist turns out to be carrying a pretty big secret that was never alluded to and was in fact, the most scandalous thing ever. My favorite character is hands down, Birdie. The gentle giant that falls for David. I'll continue with the series and hope the rest resonates with me.
January 1, 2025
This is the first book in the series and I have already read one of the later books. I wanted to read the entire series so I started reading book one. It’s a very sweet story about David, a widowed minister and his family. He’s having a hard time with his children. I really liked Birdy and hope she’s in the next book in the series.
October 21, 2015
My thoughts or rather my coworker, Bonnie's thoughts:
Dawn here: Every once in a while I'll accidentally request a book that I didn't want to review. That's what happened here. Amish fiction is not one of the genres I enjoy reading, and I knew that I wouldn't be able to give an honest review. So I asked one of my co-workers, Bonnie, if she'd like to read the book and review it for me this month. You see, Amish fiction is a genre that she enjoys. She was happy to do so, and asked me when the review had to be posted by. I told her the end of October. What follows is her review of the book. The thoughts and opinions expresses are that of Bonnie and not me. I did receive the book for free from Revell Books for the purpose of reviewing. In order to provide a truly honest review, I passed the book along to Bonnie.
Widowed David Stolfus feels that he has come to the Garden of Eden as a minister in Stoney Ridge, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Amish community. He is fulfilling his calling as a minister and running a little store. Little does he realize that things are not well in the garden. For one thing, the new bishop, Freeman Glick, enjoys power too much. Freeman and his brother, Levi use their influence to intimidate the members of the church. When David resists, Freeman tries to split the community. It does not help when David’s children have problems of their own that are embarrassing.
David’s oldest daughter, Katrina, is still struggling with the loss of a relationship with a boy she knew before they moved. Jesse, David’s 16-year-old son is trying to find an interest while he deals with a desire for lots of money. Of course, his greed gets him into trouble. Ruthie, David’s 14-year-old daughter, is trying to protect her younger sisters, Molly, 11, and twins Lydie and Emily, 8. Molly struggles to learn to cook for the family.
Freeman and Levi’s sister, Birdy, has recently started teaching and has found her niche. Loving nature, especially birds, she is able to help the children appreciate God and His world. Molly finds Birdy a great deal of help in her endeavor to learn to cook properly.
Katrina finally finds that she loves helping Thelma, the widow of the last bishop, with her moss business.
The author, Suzanne Woods Fisher, paints such great descriptions of the characters, that they come to life from the pages. From the very beginning of the book, I felt a desire to keep reading to find out what happened to each character. The story has some unique twists that make is even more delightful.
Rating - 5 stars
Dawn here again: This book would be recommended to fans of Amish fiction, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beverly Lewis.
No compensation was given for this review. It expresses the honest thoughts and opinions of Bonnie.
Dawn here: Every once in a while I'll accidentally request a book that I didn't want to review. That's what happened here. Amish fiction is not one of the genres I enjoy reading, and I knew that I wouldn't be able to give an honest review. So I asked one of my co-workers, Bonnie, if she'd like to read the book and review it for me this month. You see, Amish fiction is a genre that she enjoys. She was happy to do so, and asked me when the review had to be posted by. I told her the end of October. What follows is her review of the book. The thoughts and opinions expresses are that of Bonnie and not me. I did receive the book for free from Revell Books for the purpose of reviewing. In order to provide a truly honest review, I passed the book along to Bonnie.
Widowed David Stolfus feels that he has come to the Garden of Eden as a minister in Stoney Ridge, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Amish community. He is fulfilling his calling as a minister and running a little store. Little does he realize that things are not well in the garden. For one thing, the new bishop, Freeman Glick, enjoys power too much. Freeman and his brother, Levi use their influence to intimidate the members of the church. When David resists, Freeman tries to split the community. It does not help when David’s children have problems of their own that are embarrassing.
David’s oldest daughter, Katrina, is still struggling with the loss of a relationship with a boy she knew before they moved. Jesse, David’s 16-year-old son is trying to find an interest while he deals with a desire for lots of money. Of course, his greed gets him into trouble. Ruthie, David’s 14-year-old daughter, is trying to protect her younger sisters, Molly, 11, and twins Lydie and Emily, 8. Molly struggles to learn to cook for the family.
Freeman and Levi’s sister, Birdy, has recently started teaching and has found her niche. Loving nature, especially birds, she is able to help the children appreciate God and His world. Molly finds Birdy a great deal of help in her endeavor to learn to cook properly.
Katrina finally finds that she loves helping Thelma, the widow of the last bishop, with her moss business.
The author, Suzanne Woods Fisher, paints such great descriptions of the characters, that they come to life from the pages. From the very beginning of the book, I felt a desire to keep reading to find out what happened to each character. The story has some unique twists that make is even more delightful.
Rating - 5 stars
Dawn here again: This book would be recommended to fans of Amish fiction, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beverly Lewis.
No compensation was given for this review. It expresses the honest thoughts and opinions of Bonnie.
August 21, 2015
"By watching you cope with the problems you were facing. You didn't run away. You didn't look for the easy way out. You faced things, head-on, and tried to work through them, not around them. You woke up my world. "
See reviews first on my blog
When David decided to move his family to another community after the death of his wife, he had no real idea what he was getting himself into besides the warning the bishop gave him before he died.
"Beware, David. A snake is the garden."
After I read that I was hooked and had to know who/what this snake could be and why it was such an important thing that he knows that. I was not disappointed.
This story is told in multiple perspectives:
David – The new minister and is trying to take care of his six kids and run a store.
Katrina – David’s daughter, who is trying to get over, a heartbreak, and deal with something that has happened because of how in love she was.
Jesse – David’s troubled son who is a con artist in the making.
Birdy – New school teacher, who is the new bishop’s sister.
It was always easy to tell which person the story was following next, and I loved all of the different points of view and how they showed more of what was happening to everyone and how certain things were affecting others.
This was different from most Amish novels as it isn’t focused on someone getting married. There were a few relationships that might start in the next book, but it wasn’t the main focus. This is more of a family dynamic book and what happens as children grow older and have been the minister’s children. It also shows what happens when things are taken instead of left up to chance.
I don’t want to say too much and ruin the story because it is a really good one, and refreshing to see after the more romance filled Amish books I’ve been reading.
In the past, I have always loved Fisher’s writing and was curious to see if that was still the case. Which it is and having read this made me realize how much I missed it. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, and see what happens to this community next.
If you like Christian and clean fiction then I think this is a must-read.
"Everyone's journey begins somewhere."
Thank you to Netgalley and Revell for an E-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
See reviews first on my blog
When David decided to move his family to another community after the death of his wife, he had no real idea what he was getting himself into besides the warning the bishop gave him before he died.
"Beware, David. A snake is the garden."
After I read that I was hooked and had to know who/what this snake could be and why it was such an important thing that he knows that. I was not disappointed.
This story is told in multiple perspectives:
David – The new minister and is trying to take care of his six kids and run a store.
Katrina – David’s daughter, who is trying to get over, a heartbreak, and deal with something that has happened because of how in love she was.
Jesse – David’s troubled son who is a con artist in the making.
Birdy – New school teacher, who is the new bishop’s sister.
It was always easy to tell which person the story was following next, and I loved all of the different points of view and how they showed more of what was happening to everyone and how certain things were affecting others.
This was different from most Amish novels as it isn’t focused on someone getting married. There were a few relationships that might start in the next book, but it wasn’t the main focus. This is more of a family dynamic book and what happens as children grow older and have been the minister’s children. It also shows what happens when things are taken instead of left up to chance.
I don’t want to say too much and ruin the story because it is a really good one, and refreshing to see after the more romance filled Amish books I’ve been reading.
In the past, I have always loved Fisher’s writing and was curious to see if that was still the case. Which it is and having read this made me realize how much I missed it. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, and see what happens to this community next.
If you like Christian and clean fiction then I think this is a must-read.
"Everyone's journey begins somewhere."
Thank you to Netgalley and Revell for an E-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
August 15, 2016
This was my first read by Suzanne Woods Fisher and it definitely won't be my last. Suzanne has a way of telling a story that completely absorbs the reader and makes them feel like they are part of the story. I was hooked from the prologue.
This book begins with David Stolzfus moving his family to Stoney Ridge. He makes a comment to Bishop Elmo that the town seems like The Garden of Eden to which Elmo responds, "There is no such thing, David." On the next page, Elmo whispers, "Beware, David. A snake is in the garden." I shivered when I read these lines and couldn't wait to find out what (or who) the snake was.
This book is full of characters. One of the first we meet is a character himself. Hank is quite the cantankerous fellow and brings some laughter to the pages. Birdy is referred to nicely as a "bull in a china shop" because of her clumsiness and the mishaps that occur when she is around. Jesse, David's only son, is a bit on the wild side but means no harm. Katrina, one of David's daughters, is heartbroken over the boyfriend she left behind, John, and the state of their relationship. There is also Andy, the somewhat mysterious handyman hired by Thelma, Elmo's widow, who is wise and kind and grandmotherly. And who can forget Bishop Freeman and Levi? I found myself wanting to smack them upside their heads many times because they frustrated me so.
There are so many twists and turns and jaw-dropping surprises in this story. About halfway through, when I thought I couldn't be any more interested, there was another surprise that took my interest up another notch or two. This book kept me on my toes as to what was going to happen next.
The residents of Stoney Ridge have their issues for sure and certain. They aren't like your typical Amish characters with barn raisings and quilting bees. Nope. These characters are faced with all sorts of issues that made them seem real. I found this book to be a fresh take on the Amish fiction genre and I can't wait to see what is in store next for these people. I definitely recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
This book begins with David Stolzfus moving his family to Stoney Ridge. He makes a comment to Bishop Elmo that the town seems like The Garden of Eden to which Elmo responds, "There is no such thing, David." On the next page, Elmo whispers, "Beware, David. A snake is in the garden." I shivered when I read these lines and couldn't wait to find out what (or who) the snake was.
This book is full of characters. One of the first we meet is a character himself. Hank is quite the cantankerous fellow and brings some laughter to the pages. Birdy is referred to nicely as a "bull in a china shop" because of her clumsiness and the mishaps that occur when she is around. Jesse, David's only son, is a bit on the wild side but means no harm. Katrina, one of David's daughters, is heartbroken over the boyfriend she left behind, John, and the state of their relationship. There is also Andy, the somewhat mysterious handyman hired by Thelma, Elmo's widow, who is wise and kind and grandmotherly. And who can forget Bishop Freeman and Levi? I found myself wanting to smack them upside their heads many times because they frustrated me so.
There are so many twists and turns and jaw-dropping surprises in this story. About halfway through, when I thought I couldn't be any more interested, there was another surprise that took my interest up another notch or two. This book kept me on my toes as to what was going to happen next.
The residents of Stoney Ridge have their issues for sure and certain. They aren't like your typical Amish characters with barn raisings and quilting bees. Nope. These characters are faced with all sorts of issues that made them seem real. I found this book to be a fresh take on the Amish fiction genre and I can't wait to see what is in store next for these people. I definitely recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
September 9, 2015
It seems that somehow every autumn I end up visiting Amish country. Unfortunately this year is one of the few times that I haven't yet had the opportunity to explore Sugarcreek, Ohio, and the surrounding towns in person. As all bookworms know, however, you can journey just about any where through the pages of a book.
Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish stories are always my go-to reads when I'm looking to experience Plain life in print. This time we are once again invited to Stoney Ridge through her new series, The Bishop's Family. While this series isn't quite as gripping as her previous series' (ugghhh the Lancaster County Secrets series) or as light-hearted as her Stoney Ridge series, it is a promising start. There were too many characters and too many different directions that this story took, but as the first book it is definitely more of, say, an introduction than a story with a plot that really grips you and pulls you in. That said there was a plot twist with one of the protagonists that I did not see coming. At. All. It's extremely rare for me to be truly surprised by Christian fiction, so that was nice.
If you're a fan of Amish stories or just a fan of this author in general, it's definitely worth checking out. That said, whether or not it's a keeper shelf book will have to be determined after the series unfolds a little more. This book definitely feels incomplete.
~My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars~
*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish stories are always my go-to reads when I'm looking to experience Plain life in print. This time we are once again invited to Stoney Ridge through her new series, The Bishop's Family. While this series isn't quite as gripping as her previous series' (ugghhh the Lancaster County Secrets series) or as light-hearted as her Stoney Ridge series, it is a promising start. There were too many characters and too many different directions that this story took, but as the first book it is definitely more of, say, an introduction than a story with a plot that really grips you and pulls you in. That said there was a plot twist with one of the protagonists that I did not see coming. At. All. It's extremely rare for me to be truly surprised by Christian fiction, so that was nice.
If you're a fan of Amish stories or just a fan of this author in general, it's definitely worth checking out. That said, whether or not it's a keeper shelf book will have to be determined after the series unfolds a little more. This book definitely feels incomplete.
~My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars~
*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
October 7, 2015
I was sent a copy of The Imposter by Suzanne Woods Fisher from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Earlier this year I read Suzanne Woods Fisher’s novel The Choice and couldn’t put it down. So when I saw that she was releasing a new series I jumped at the chance to read and review it. I went into The Imposter with high expectations and I definitely wasn’t disappointed.
I found the two female leads to be quite relatable. Despite Jesse’s knack for getting himself into less than proper situations, his storyline was very entertaining. Then there was David. I am not normally one to crush on book characters, but I certainly did in this case. Not only was he was he a good father, but the strength he had in his faith and convictions never wavered.
Unlike other books I have read, The Imposter showed a lot of growth in its characters and their relationships. My favourite perspectives varied from Birdy and David. I loved how her mindful observations of the nature around her positively influenced David and his sermons.
Reading about the Stoltzfus family was an enjoyable cozy experience and I can’t wait for the release of the second book in this series. I would recommend The Imposter to fans of the genre who are looking for a warm curl-up-by-the-fire type novel.
To read my full review of Suzanne Woods Fisher's The Imposter please visit my blog:
http://mlsmanyreads.blogspot.ca/2015/...
Earlier this year I read Suzanne Woods Fisher’s novel The Choice and couldn’t put it down. So when I saw that she was releasing a new series I jumped at the chance to read and review it. I went into The Imposter with high expectations and I definitely wasn’t disappointed.
I found the two female leads to be quite relatable. Despite Jesse’s knack for getting himself into less than proper situations, his storyline was very entertaining. Then there was David. I am not normally one to crush on book characters, but I certainly did in this case. Not only was he was he a good father, but the strength he had in his faith and convictions never wavered.
Unlike other books I have read, The Imposter showed a lot of growth in its characters and their relationships. My favourite perspectives varied from Birdy and David. I loved how her mindful observations of the nature around her positively influenced David and his sermons.
Reading about the Stoltzfus family was an enjoyable cozy experience and I can’t wait for the release of the second book in this series. I would recommend The Imposter to fans of the genre who are looking for a warm curl-up-by-the-fire type novel.
To read my full review of Suzanne Woods Fisher's The Imposter please visit my blog:
http://mlsmanyreads.blogspot.ca/2015/...
October 17, 2015
Another great book from Suzanne Woods Fisher. I have to say this book threw me for more loops than a roller-coaster. I would begin to think I knew where she was going with this story, only to be tossed a curve. I love it! Favorite character? Birdy, she was so real, and so refreshing to read. Least favorite character? Jesse, he was a scam artist, it will be interesting to see where Suzanne takes this character. This story is refreshing, it is different from most Amish novels because no one, well no one except old Hank Lapp got married and he has been trying to marry the widow Edith Fisher forever. This story seemed a bit slow in the beginning but once I was drawn in, it seemed to pick up the pace. This is book one in the new series The Bishop's Family, but it is set in Stoney Ridge, where her last series was set, so familiar characters appear throughout the story.A definite fun fall read, with a 4.5 star rating from this reviewer. This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
October 30, 2015
AMAZING! Returning to these characters and Stoney Ridge is like being reacquainted with old friends! :) I feel that the book is different than the book description though. Instead of being just centered around Katrina, like I originally thought, it's more about her whole family. Shocking twists and things I never saw coming blew my mind and the humor kept me laughing so much I couldn't read this book in public! :D I absolutely LOVE this book and I can't wait for the next one! A Must Read in my opinion! :)
Songs: I really felt like this song belongs with this book, and it reminds me of Birdy in particular! :) "Soar" by Meredith Andrews.
I also want to put "It Is Well With My Soul" with this book, but I can't find a version I like to add a link.
Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC
Exodus 14:14
~ASC
*I requested and received this book from Revell for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about The Imposter. ~ASC
Songs: I really felt like this song belongs with this book, and it reminds me of Birdy in particular! :) "Soar" by Meredith Andrews.
I also want to put "It Is Well With My Soul" with this book, but I can't find a version I like to add a link.
Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC
Exodus 14:14
~ASC
*I requested and received this book from Revell for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about The Imposter. ~ASC
November 22, 2015
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Katrina Stoltzfus is struggling with the accident that killed her mother, as well as seriously injuring herself, but she cannot move on because of taking care of her dad and siblings. That is until a widow lady needs help with her new business and Katrina’s dad decides Katrina should be the one to help. What Katrina wasn’t expecting was the attraction to Andy Miller, the new hired help. As with all of Suzanne Woods Fisher’s books, this is another awesome read! Filled with a host of secrets coming from all directions, The Imposter is sure to capture your attention and give you several hours of enjoyable entertainment. Check out this latest book from Ms. Fisher HERE.
I received this book from Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
Katrina Stoltzfus is struggling with the accident that killed her mother, as well as seriously injuring herself, but she cannot move on because of taking care of her dad and siblings. That is until a widow lady needs help with her new business and Katrina’s dad decides Katrina should be the one to help. What Katrina wasn’t expecting was the attraction to Andy Miller, the new hired help. As with all of Suzanne Woods Fisher’s books, this is another awesome read! Filled with a host of secrets coming from all directions, The Imposter is sure to capture your attention and give you several hours of enjoyable entertainment. Check out this latest book from Ms. Fisher HERE.
I received this book from Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
October 24, 2015
I really liked the ending. I liked the spiritual knowledge.
I didn't like that it was not really Amish. More like mainstream Christian with a prayer cap.
I got very frustrated by the lack of authenticity.
I didn't like that it was not really Amish. More like mainstream Christian with a prayer cap.
I got very frustrated by the lack of authenticity.
September 7, 2022
This was such an excellent read. I actually highlighted some of her quotes and wisdom because the words stirred my heart. I want to read everything Suzanne wrote. I lingered while reading the words because the writing was so beautiful.
Read
May 27, 2015There is a reason why fans of Amish fiction love books by Suzanne Woods Fisher. Her writing style is warm and inviting, and you'll feel very much at home with her delightful characters.
June 29, 2017
This was a loving story like Little House on the Prairie. However, I prefer My Lady Jane and Throne of Glass.
Read
October 15, 2021I didn't love the style of this book; there was too much explanation at times. In addition to that, there were too many characters and perspectives to keep straight at first try. But in this case the content made up for it.
What makes a book good is the way you can or cannot relate to the characters. In "The Imposer" I could relate to almost all the characters. It felt as though there was a little bit of me in all of them.
The story held some unexpected twists along the way, but it was the characters that keep me turning the pages.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Favourite quotes:
"The bright side is not always the right side."
"Evidence of God is everywhere if only we take the time to find it."
"In the chaos of life, God remainded in the buisness of making beautiful landscaotes out of our messes.
"There is no dark so deep you can't see God, if you try."
What makes a book good is the way you can or cannot relate to the characters. In "The Imposer" I could relate to almost all the characters. It felt as though there was a little bit of me in all of them.
The story held some unexpected twists along the way, but it was the characters that keep me turning the pages.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Favourite quotes:
"The bright side is not always the right side."
"Evidence of God is everywhere if only we take the time to find it."
"In the chaos of life, God remainded in the buisness of making beautiful landscaotes out of our messes.
"There is no dark so deep you can't see God, if you try."
January 27, 2021
The story was gentle and heart-warming, with a vast array of characters from adorable to irritating (as they were meant to be). The relationships were complex, and the growth in those critical to this first book in the series believable. Lovers of Amish fiction will likely enjoy this series.
May 26, 2020
The Imposter was a bit slow going at the start, and I had a hard time keeping track of who was who. But 3/4 the way through something happened and suddenly the reading began to flow quickly for me. A few revelations came as sweet surprises, and I found that I was enjoying this little Amish district of Stoney Ridge that Suzanne Woods Fisher created.
July 25, 2025
Shed a couple of tears, but with no mascara smears ☺️
June 8, 2022
Weird title considering the, like, point of it is mostly irrelevant for 90% of it. Might as well call the Annihilation movie "Dancing With Myself" or something.
December 22, 2024
A wonderful Amish fiction book with relatable and genuine characters!
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