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Journey to Pleasant Prairie #1
Hannah's Choice
Hannah Yoder loves her quiet life on the banks of the Conestoga Creek. In 1842, this corner of Lancaster County is settled and peaceful--yet problems lurk beneath the placid façade. Hannah's father worries about the spread of liberal ideas from their Mennonite and Brethren neighbors. And Hannah blames herself for a tragedy that struck their home nine years ago. She strives to be the one person who can bind the threads of her family together in spite of her mother's ongoing depression and her sister's rejection of their family. But her world is threatening to unravel.
When two young men seek her hand in marriage--one offering the home she craves and the other promising the adventure of following God's call west--Hannah must make a choice. Faithfully perform her duties to her family? Or defy her father and abandon her community?
When two young men seek her hand in marriage--one offering the home she craves and the other promising the adventure of following God's call west--Hannah must make a choice. Faithfully perform her duties to her family? Or defy her father and abandon her community?
390 pages, Paperback
First published January 19, 2016
201 people are currently reading
792 people want to read
About the author
Jan Drexler
31 books343 followersJan Drexler brings a unique understanding of Amish traditions and beliefs to her writing. Her ancestors were among the first Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s, and their experiences are the inspiration for her stories. Jan lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota with her husband of thirty-eight years, where she enjoys hiking in the Hills and spending time with their expanding family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 10, 2016
Some books grab you from the minute you begin reading and don’t let you go until you’ve finished; not in the ‘I-can’t-put-it-down’ sense, but in the ‘I’m-still-thinking-about-it-even-though-I-have-put-it-down’ sense. This was one of those books. All through the story I could feel the tension in the choices before Hannah (and the other characters) and I honestly had no idea how things would resolve until the last moment. I wasn’t even sure which way I wanted it to resolve at times. What’s more, the writing flowed so naturally that I often forgot I was even reading, if that makes sense. I guess you could say I became fully immersed in the world of the story.
Hannah’s world centres around her family, her faith, and her home, and they are all beautifully and realistically portrayed. Each is also a cause for concern. Hannah’s mother still suffers frequent bouts of depression following the death of three of Hannah’s younger siblings nine years ago. As a result, Hannah shoulders much of the responsibility for keeping the household running and looking after her younger siblings. Her sister Liesbet is increasingly determined to escape the confines of the Amish way of life and has been secretly meeting an Englischer teamster whom she plans to marry, refusing to heed Hannah’s warnings. And Adam, the Mennonite boy who has been Hannah's best friend from childhood, has begun to speak to her of marriage. But unless he becomes Amish, accepting his proposal would be turning her back on her faith and her family.
When Hannah’s father announces the family will be moving west to help establish a new Amish community, Hannah cannot bear the thought of leaving the home their ancestors built. If she accepts Adam’s proposal, it will allow her to stay in Conestoga Creek. But would that be worth abandoning her faith and being separated from her family? When she discovers that Adam is assisting escaped slaves via the Underground Railroad she becomes even more uncertain. The Good Book tells them to obey the civil authorities, and yet Adam says he is obeying God by helping his fellow man. When he needs Hannah’s help as a guide, she finds she cannot refuse and suddenly things aren’t so black and white anymore. Could this really be God’s will for Adam? And what would that mean for any future marriage to him?
Into this mix steps Josef Bender, a redemptioner nearing the end of his term who also plans to travel west and purchase land. He makes it clear from the outset that he is looking for a wife and wishes to court Hannah. Hannah barely knows him, yet she cannot deny the pleasure his company brings. What’s more, he is Amish. But when Hannah shares her desire to stay in Conestoga Creek she learns he can be stubborn too. He is adamant his future is in the west, and he wants Hannah there beside him. Over the winter, as the family prepares for their journey west, Hannah’s decision becomes even more difficult as those around her make choices that have far reaching repercussions.
I loved the way this novel presented such a wide array of characters and beliefs without pronouncing judgement on them. Each of the characters acted in accordance with their own convictions, and the consequences of their actions spoke for themselves. And through it all, we see the interplay between God’s law on one hand, and his mercy and compassion on the other. The characters were well drawn, the story was engaging, and the writing was seamless. I really could not ask for more and look forward to seeing where this series heads next.
Thank you to Revell Books for giving me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Hannah’s world centres around her family, her faith, and her home, and they are all beautifully and realistically portrayed. Each is also a cause for concern. Hannah’s mother still suffers frequent bouts of depression following the death of three of Hannah’s younger siblings nine years ago. As a result, Hannah shoulders much of the responsibility for keeping the household running and looking after her younger siblings. Her sister Liesbet is increasingly determined to escape the confines of the Amish way of life and has been secretly meeting an Englischer teamster whom she plans to marry, refusing to heed Hannah’s warnings. And Adam, the Mennonite boy who has been Hannah's best friend from childhood, has begun to speak to her of marriage. But unless he becomes Amish, accepting his proposal would be turning her back on her faith and her family.
When Hannah’s father announces the family will be moving west to help establish a new Amish community, Hannah cannot bear the thought of leaving the home their ancestors built. If she accepts Adam’s proposal, it will allow her to stay in Conestoga Creek. But would that be worth abandoning her faith and being separated from her family? When she discovers that Adam is assisting escaped slaves via the Underground Railroad she becomes even more uncertain. The Good Book tells them to obey the civil authorities, and yet Adam says he is obeying God by helping his fellow man. When he needs Hannah’s help as a guide, she finds she cannot refuse and suddenly things aren’t so black and white anymore. Could this really be God’s will for Adam? And what would that mean for any future marriage to him?
Into this mix steps Josef Bender, a redemptioner nearing the end of his term who also plans to travel west and purchase land. He makes it clear from the outset that he is looking for a wife and wishes to court Hannah. Hannah barely knows him, yet she cannot deny the pleasure his company brings. What’s more, he is Amish. But when Hannah shares her desire to stay in Conestoga Creek she learns he can be stubborn too. He is adamant his future is in the west, and he wants Hannah there beside him. Over the winter, as the family prepares for their journey west, Hannah’s decision becomes even more difficult as those around her make choices that have far reaching repercussions.
I loved the way this novel presented such a wide array of characters and beliefs without pronouncing judgement on them. Each of the characters acted in accordance with their own convictions, and the consequences of their actions spoke for themselves. And through it all, we see the interplay between God’s law on one hand, and his mercy and compassion on the other. The characters were well drawn, the story was engaging, and the writing was seamless. I really could not ask for more and look forward to seeing where this series heads next.
Thank you to Revell Books for giving me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 30, 2016
HANNAH'S CHOICE is the first book in Ms. Drexler's debut Amish historical, and I am very impressed. The story started out sad, depressing even, with the mandatory historical formula deaths. But instead of one dying, it was four, all children. Mamm was grieving, the family torn asunder, and I actually considered putting the book down, reading it in portions. In fact, when I had an hour of quiet time today between services at church (I read this on May 29) I took another book along to read, just in case this book got too depressing for words.
BUT once we got past the mandatory death(s) the story picked up. I will admit I LOVE Adam. He is strong, courageous, he loves Hannah and his family and follows what he believes is God's will without counting the cost. Then Josef came on the scene. I didn't like his strong cockiness, his arrogance, his assumption that just because he speaks Hannah will jump. He took a lot for granted and got angry when she did something he didn't like even though they weren't even courting at the time. And the black moment? (Shaking my head.) Hannah was a good girl, obedient to her parents, loving to her brothers and sisters, going the extra mile for both Adam and Josef and others, and confused about who she should choose to marry. I cheered more for one than the other, but since they both have several scenes in their point of view, then readers can choose their favorites.
A good book, one that made me sigh when I closed it, so I was glad I made it past the rough, depressing beginning. Recommended.
BUT once we got past the mandatory death(s) the story picked up. I will admit I LOVE Adam. He is strong, courageous, he loves Hannah and his family and follows what he believes is God's will without counting the cost. Then Josef came on the scene. I didn't like his strong cockiness, his arrogance, his assumption that just because he speaks Hannah will jump. He took a lot for granted and got angry when she did something he didn't like even though they weren't even courting at the time. And the black moment? (Shaking my head.) Hannah was a good girl, obedient to her parents, loving to her brothers and sisters, going the extra mile for both Adam and Josef and others, and confused about who she should choose to marry. I cheered more for one than the other, but since they both have several scenes in their point of view, then readers can choose their favorites.
A good book, one that made me sigh when I closed it, so I was glad I made it past the rough, depressing beginning. Recommended.
November 5, 2016
Hannah's Choice is set in 1842 Pennsylvania. The story provides insight into the differences between Amish and Mennonite faiths and lifestyles. Learning about those differences was my favorite part about the novel.
Main character Hannah is torn between Adam, a Mennonite friend since childhood and Josef, a newcomer that shares her Amish faith. Both men have traits that cause her to pause. While I could relate to the questions she had about each of them, the ultimate romance that buds fell a bit short for me.
Secondary story lines were with Hannah's mother Annalise and Hannah's sister Liesbet. Annalise suffers from depression following the loss of three young children. Liesbet wants to escape what she seems as the stifling Amish life. Both of their journeys were engaging and believable.
Overall I enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next in the series.
Main character Hannah is torn between Adam, a Mennonite friend since childhood and Josef, a newcomer that shares her Amish faith. Both men have traits that cause her to pause. While I could relate to the questions she had about each of them, the ultimate romance that buds fell a bit short for me.
Secondary story lines were with Hannah's mother Annalise and Hannah's sister Liesbet. Annalise suffers from depression following the loss of three young children. Liesbet wants to escape what she seems as the stifling Amish life. Both of their journeys were engaging and believable.
Overall I enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next in the series.
October 24, 2021
I enjoyed this. Felt a bit long at times. I want to read the second in the series.
January 2, 2016
The title of the book Hannah’s Choice complements the theme of this story, and who will win her hand and heart.
This book takes place in the Lancaster PA area before the Civil War, and with slave hunters coming through the area looking for escaped slaves. We find at the end of this book that the author is related to former Amish, or Brethren who left the area and went to Indiana.
Hannah lives with her family on a farm that has been in her family for generations. It is situated on the banks of the Conestoga River, and we get to journey around on this beautiful land. How wonderful to live with so much family history surrounding them. Some is heart breaking especially with the death of three of her siblings.
When a couple of fellow Amish stop at the farm and offer up an opportunity to move to new land at low prices, Christian, Hannah’s Dad, thinks this will be a good solution to go to where there are more Amish, and to get away from the grief that has surrounded his wife and family. He is also worried about his children going worldly and marrying outside of their religion.
I was quickly consumed by this book and was turning the pages to find the answers, and I struggled, as did Hannah, as to whom she should choose to marry. If she chooses her neighbor and childhood friend Adam, she risks looking her family to the bann, but she can continue to live where she loves, and if she chooses the Josef will she be marrying for love, but she follows her religion.
This is a wonderful read about the Amish in Pennsylvania before it was a major settlement, and life in the 1840’s in America.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell and was not required to give a positive review.
This book takes place in the Lancaster PA area before the Civil War, and with slave hunters coming through the area looking for escaped slaves. We find at the end of this book that the author is related to former Amish, or Brethren who left the area and went to Indiana.
Hannah lives with her family on a farm that has been in her family for generations. It is situated on the banks of the Conestoga River, and we get to journey around on this beautiful land. How wonderful to live with so much family history surrounding them. Some is heart breaking especially with the death of three of her siblings.
When a couple of fellow Amish stop at the farm and offer up an opportunity to move to new land at low prices, Christian, Hannah’s Dad, thinks this will be a good solution to go to where there are more Amish, and to get away from the grief that has surrounded his wife and family. He is also worried about his children going worldly and marrying outside of their religion.
I was quickly consumed by this book and was turning the pages to find the answers, and I struggled, as did Hannah, as to whom she should choose to marry. If she chooses her neighbor and childhood friend Adam, she risks looking her family to the bann, but she can continue to live where she loves, and if she chooses the Josef will she be marrying for love, but she follows her religion.
This is a wonderful read about the Amish in Pennsylvania before it was a major settlement, and life in the 1840’s in America.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell and was not required to give a positive review.
February 19, 2016
Heart engaged.
Tears shed.
Mourning period begun.
Truly, my heart hasn't quite settled yet. I was so immersed in Hannah's story that I think I worried years off my life before she finally made her choice. (Awesome title tie-in, by the way.) In fact, I have never been so tempted to sneak a peek at the last few pages of a book. I was desperate to find out Hannah's choice and at the same time dreading that ultimate revelation. And that's because Drexler has fleshed out these characters to breath-taking proportions. I came to care for all of them, including both suitors so my heart is slightly crushed right now. This author should be reported for cruelty to readers. :-)
Love the mix of Amish and Historical and the author does an amazing job of bringing that rich history to life. Funny to think that the Pennsylvania Amish of 1842 worried about the encroaching world threatening their way of life just as much as their 21st century counterparts. I was also thrilled to find an underground railroad story woven into this read. Lots of scope for conflict and battles of conscience right there. More for Hannah to struggle with as she stretches and grows in her faith.
And speaking of struggling -- hello -- two suitors that would lead her in two different directions. A family suffering with a brokenness only God can heal...if the individuals are willing. And Hannah in the centre of it all trying to be everything to everybody while following her own faith journey. Riveting stuff.
A compelling read that's sure to thrill both Amish and Historical Fiction readers.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.
Tears shed.
Mourning period begun.
Truly, my heart hasn't quite settled yet. I was so immersed in Hannah's story that I think I worried years off my life before she finally made her choice. (Awesome title tie-in, by the way.) In fact, I have never been so tempted to sneak a peek at the last few pages of a book. I was desperate to find out Hannah's choice and at the same time dreading that ultimate revelation. And that's because Drexler has fleshed out these characters to breath-taking proportions. I came to care for all of them, including both suitors so my heart is slightly crushed right now. This author should be reported for cruelty to readers. :-)
Love the mix of Amish and Historical and the author does an amazing job of bringing that rich history to life. Funny to think that the Pennsylvania Amish of 1842 worried about the encroaching world threatening their way of life just as much as their 21st century counterparts. I was also thrilled to find an underground railroad story woven into this read. Lots of scope for conflict and battles of conscience right there. More for Hannah to struggle with as she stretches and grows in her faith.
And speaking of struggling -- hello -- two suitors that would lead her in two different directions. A family suffering with a brokenness only God can heal...if the individuals are willing. And Hannah in the centre of it all trying to be everything to everybody while following her own faith journey. Riveting stuff.
A compelling read that's sure to thrill both Amish and Historical Fiction readers.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.
January 30, 2016
Family and freedom of self, what's your choice?
That's a tough question to answer, isn't it? With Hannah, there's also the choice of the man she grew up with, who's a Mennonite and the man she's come to know and respect who shares the same Amish faith. What would the choice be?
A historical Amish novel that brings to light the Amish ways and their ideals. Jan Drexler wrote a story as much about family as it is about the Amish order. I enjoyed the story for the most part, but did find the flow of the story somewhat choppy, from Liesbet's ways to Adam's involvement with rescuing the slaves to the main romantic triangle of the story. I felt Hannah's focus is more on following and obeying the Amish law rather than what Christian beliefs are about. Yes, she's done things aside from her Amish upbringing, but her thoughts center around the Amish law, more than what God has to do with it. The weakness of inspirational messages aside, I do agree with Hannah's choice at the end of the story, and I think the last scene in chapter 33 was the best part, for seeing what love meant. In truth, none of the characters appealed to me much . However, the story itself still kept me entertained and intrigued enough to want to know what happened at the end. And that I give credence to Jan as a writer. Then, there's the fact the cover is gorgeous sure helps to imagine the setting.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Revell for an honest review.
http://justcommonly.blogspot.com/2016...
That's a tough question to answer, isn't it? With Hannah, there's also the choice of the man she grew up with, who's a Mennonite and the man she's come to know and respect who shares the same Amish faith. What would the choice be?
A historical Amish novel that brings to light the Amish ways and their ideals. Jan Drexler wrote a story as much about family as it is about the Amish order. I enjoyed the story for the most part, but did find the flow of the story somewhat choppy, from Liesbet's ways to Adam's involvement with rescuing the slaves to the main romantic triangle of the story. I felt Hannah's focus is more on following and obeying the Amish law rather than what Christian beliefs are about. Yes, she's done things aside from her Amish upbringing, but her thoughts center around the Amish law, more than what God has to do with it. The weakness of inspirational messages aside, I do agree with Hannah's choice at the end of the story, and I think the last scene in chapter 33 was the best part, for seeing what love meant. In truth, none of the characters appealed to me much . However, the story itself still kept me entertained and intrigued enough to want to know what happened at the end. And that I give credence to Jan as a writer. Then, there's the fact the cover is gorgeous sure helps to imagine the setting.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Revell for an honest review.
http://justcommonly.blogspot.com/2016...
January 31, 2016
Hannah’s Choice was a very interesting story, full of trials and temptations, questions and dilemmas, family and friends. Although there is a love triangle, of sorts, between Hannah and two men, this book seemed to me to be much more about the dynamics of the Yoder family and important decisions that they must make.
I was unsure for a large portion of the book about which man Hannah was going to end up with. There were positive and negative aspects to each relationship. I’m happy with how everything worked out.
The struggles of the Yoder family were quite sad, including depression and an older child who was beginning to sway from the Amish faith. Yet I found this book to be enjoyable and the sad situations did not weigh down the story, but added to it. I thought that the history and interactions between the Amish and Mennonite families was very interesting. Hannah’s family was concerned that the local Mennonite families were influencing the Amish families and drawing them away from the faith. I liked learning about these differences.
This was a very good book and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I was unsure for a large portion of the book about which man Hannah was going to end up with. There were positive and negative aspects to each relationship. I’m happy with how everything worked out.
The struggles of the Yoder family were quite sad, including depression and an older child who was beginning to sway from the Amish faith. Yet I found this book to be enjoyable and the sad situations did not weigh down the story, but added to it. I thought that the history and interactions between the Amish and Mennonite families was very interesting. Hannah’s family was concerned that the local Mennonite families were influencing the Amish families and drawing them away from the faith. I liked learning about these differences.
This was a very good book and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 8, 2016
"Hannah's Choice" is story about a young woman struggling to find her place in life. Hannah has always felt responsible for a family tragedy years before. Her mother is always depressed and her sister does not want the family anymore. Hannah is trying to keep her family together. All of a sudden two men want to marry her. She alone must make a decision that will determine the rest of her life. She isn't sure if she wants to be safe and secure or does she want something different for her future. Her father has told her which one he wants her to choose. Should she does as she is told, or should she make up her own mind? I really liked this story and I give it a 4/5. I was given this book for reviewing and these are my opinions.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
December 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this novel! I also liked the fact that it took place in Ohio the state I was raised in!!
Making choices is sometimes most difficult especially where Hannah's is concerned
The Story does start out slow but eventually it picks up and ends up being delightful!
Jan is an excellent storyteller. I love her writing style simply because she can make her books into a movie and sometimes that even better than the book itself!
I love that she mixes Amish in with the historical setting of Ohio.
I felt like this almost rivaled Laura's books and in a way Hannah is a pioneer lady just like Laura. I think that is why I really liked about this book.
Making choices is sometimes most difficult especially where Hannah's is concerned
The Story does start out slow but eventually it picks up and ends up being delightful!
Jan is an excellent storyteller. I love her writing style simply because she can make her books into a movie and sometimes that even better than the book itself!
I love that she mixes Amish in with the historical setting of Ohio.
I felt like this almost rivaled Laura's books and in a way Hannah is a pioneer lady just like Laura. I think that is why I really liked about this book.
August 15, 2022
I enjoy reading books about the Amish. Too often we romanticize their lifestyle, reading about them reminds one's that even in a "simple" life there are constant struggles. This is about choices, family ties, relationships, difficult life decisions. Well written, keeps one's interest. I would certainly read more of this series as well as others by the author.
If you like family sagas, clean reads, historical fiction: I recommend this.
If you like family sagas, clean reads, historical fiction: I recommend this.
April 2, 2016
This was the first time I read a book from this author. I really enjoyed the historical aspect of this book. When you read books about the Amish it's always set in today's current style. This was a delightful book!
May 11, 2019
This is the first novel I’ve read of Jan Drexler’s and I was enthralled with Hannah’s story right from page one.
The story follows Hannah Yoder’s family, one of the last Old Order Amish families living along the Conestoga River near Lancaster, PA. So much history lives on her family’s property but pressures from the world closes in on the few families left in the area. Fathers are afraid of losing their children to the world, and need to make the difficult decision of whether to stay or leave – risks are heavy with either decision.
Hannah is loath to leave her childhood home, and best friend Adam Miller (who happens to be Mennonite). They’ve buried three of her siblings there and she can’t fathom living anywhere else, but when tragedy strikes their family, Hannah is forced to see things from a different perspective.
A delightful surprise was the subplot of the Underground Railroad. I’ve never considered what it would have been like for the Amish to have slaves escaping across their property when they are forbidden to disobey the laws of the land. It’s a curious, but fascinating struggle Hannah has to face when someone very near and dear to her gets involved with the plight of the runaway slaves.
Then, there is Josef.
Sigh. I didn’t like him from the start and I really didn’t like him at the end.
Read the book. You’ll see why. And I’m sure, there will be many of you who’d agree with me that Josef is…well, Josef.
I’ve already dived into the second book of this series and will share my thoughts once that one is read too. All I can say, is that drama continues to follow the families from the Conestoga, and it will be interesting to see where these adventures take them.
The story follows Hannah Yoder’s family, one of the last Old Order Amish families living along the Conestoga River near Lancaster, PA. So much history lives on her family’s property but pressures from the world closes in on the few families left in the area. Fathers are afraid of losing their children to the world, and need to make the difficult decision of whether to stay or leave – risks are heavy with either decision.
Hannah is loath to leave her childhood home, and best friend Adam Miller (who happens to be Mennonite). They’ve buried three of her siblings there and she can’t fathom living anywhere else, but when tragedy strikes their family, Hannah is forced to see things from a different perspective.
A delightful surprise was the subplot of the Underground Railroad. I’ve never considered what it would have been like for the Amish to have slaves escaping across their property when they are forbidden to disobey the laws of the land. It’s a curious, but fascinating struggle Hannah has to face when someone very near and dear to her gets involved with the plight of the runaway slaves.
Then, there is Josef.
Sigh. I didn’t like him from the start and I really didn’t like him at the end.
Read the book. You’ll see why. And I’m sure, there will be many of you who’d agree with me that Josef is…well, Josef.
I’ve already dived into the second book of this series and will share my thoughts once that one is read too. All I can say, is that drama continues to follow the families from the Conestoga, and it will be interesting to see where these adventures take them.
February 16, 2018
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
When love and family conflict,
will she listen to her head. . .or her heart?
Hannah Yoder loves her quiet life on the banks of Conestoga Creek. In 1842, this corner of Lancaster County is settled and peaceful---yet problems lurk beneath the placid facade. Hannah strives to be the one person who can bind the threads of her family together in spite of her father's worries, her mother's depression, and her sister's rebellious ways. But her world threatens to unravel.
When two young men seek her hand in marriage---one offering the home she craves and the other promising the adventure of following God's call west---Hannah must make a choice. Will she stay true to the faith of her family or defy her father and abandon her community?
MY REVIEW
Jan really takes you on a different road than most Amish novels take you. There is a lot going on, a lot of indecision, grief and love of family. She keeps you interested throughout and just when you think you know what Hannah will do, you quickly change your mind.
When love and family conflict,
will she listen to her head. . .or her heart?
Hannah Yoder loves her quiet life on the banks of Conestoga Creek. In 1842, this corner of Lancaster County is settled and peaceful---yet problems lurk beneath the placid facade. Hannah strives to be the one person who can bind the threads of her family together in spite of her father's worries, her mother's depression, and her sister's rebellious ways. But her world threatens to unravel.
When two young men seek her hand in marriage---one offering the home she craves and the other promising the adventure of following God's call west---Hannah must make a choice. Will she stay true to the faith of her family or defy her father and abandon her community?
MY REVIEW
Jan really takes you on a different road than most Amish novels take you. There is a lot going on, a lot of indecision, grief and love of family. She keeps you interested throughout and just when you think you know what Hannah will do, you quickly change your mind.
August 20, 2017
This is the first is the Journey to Pleasnat Prairie Series by Jan Drexler "Hannah's Choice"
Hannah Yoder absolute loves her life living along the Conestoga Creek with her family who have lived there for generations. Will Hannah listen to her heart or her head? Adam Hannah's lifetime friend wants nothing more than a life with Hannah which would mean Hannaah would always have a home along the creek banks or would it? But could she leave her faith to be with Adam?
The there is Josef could she learn to love him? And if so that would mean moving and how could she possibly do that?
Jan Drexler has done a wonderful job with this historical Amish fiction so much so that you will begin to wonder if it's really fiction, I know I did! All the characters are such wonderfully written and entertwened that you get a sense that God truly had a hand in Jan's writing as this story Begins to folded. Don't miss reading Hannah's Choice and I look forward to book two in the series. Mattie's Pledge
Hannah Yoder absolute loves her life living along the Conestoga Creek with her family who have lived there for generations. Will Hannah listen to her heart or her head? Adam Hannah's lifetime friend wants nothing more than a life with Hannah which would mean Hannaah would always have a home along the creek banks or would it? But could she leave her faith to be with Adam?
The there is Josef could she learn to love him? And if so that would mean moving and how could she possibly do that?
Jan Drexler has done a wonderful job with this historical Amish fiction so much so that you will begin to wonder if it's really fiction, I know I did! All the characters are such wonderfully written and entertwened that you get a sense that God truly had a hand in Jan's writing as this story Begins to folded. Don't miss reading Hannah's Choice and I look forward to book two in the series. Mattie's Pledge
April 25, 2018
I found this on the library new book shelf and picked it up because of the Indiana setting, which is unusual, though this one is set in Pennsylvania before the family moves west. I went back the next day to get the second one in the series.
Hannah's Choice is, of course, about marriage. And her final choice won't surprise you. However, the journey is a lot of fun. The characters are well rounded and believable, and the author, though she does repeat herself, does a good job of incorporating the language and history into the story in a believable and interesting way.
If you like Amish romance, this is one of the better examples.
Hannah's Choice is, of course, about marriage. And her final choice won't surprise you. However, the journey is a lot of fun. The characters are well rounded and believable, and the author, though she does repeat herself, does a good job of incorporating the language and history into the story in a believable and interesting way.
If you like Amish romance, this is one of the better examples.
November 15, 2020
Another outstanding Jan Drexler book
Drexler's Amish books always reach beyond the he/she/stumbling block/HEA. Well titled since this story truly is about choices. Hannah has two major life changing decisions to make with a deadline for both. The characters are rich and yes, you will want to turn Lisabet over your knee and give her some attention steps. Definitely recommend. Add this to your "would give it 6 🌟 if I could.
Drexler's Amish books always reach beyond the he/she/stumbling block/HEA. Well titled since this story truly is about choices. Hannah has two major life changing decisions to make with a deadline for both. The characters are rich and yes, you will want to turn Lisabet over your knee and give her some attention steps. Definitely recommend. Add this to your "would give it 6 🌟 if I could.
October 28, 2022
I read this for an author study for my editing work, and was surprised how much I enjoyed it. The author kept my interest the whole book, as I wondered who/what would Hannah choose. I don’t care for the Amish religion, but these characters are good people living complicated lives that I appreciated very much. I now plan to read the whole series.
May 28, 2017
In all honesty, I probably would've given this a 3.5 stars but rounding happened et voila! 4 stars it is. Anyway, in regards to the actual book... It was definitely different in its own way. I also never knew who to ship. Yay.
December 2, 2017
If I could give this book 10 stars I would. My heart has moved across the pages and my eyes have smiled and shed tears. I highly recommend this book. Jan is a very gifted writer. Thank you for opening my world with this novel. Bless you.
July 9, 2018
A hopeful future
To preserve his families Amish heritage the Daed decided to.move his family to Indiana. Leaving the generational home is hard for the family. A story well researched embellished to tell the author tells the story of her ancestors. A good read.
To preserve his families Amish heritage the Daed decided to.move his family to Indiana. Leaving the generational home is hard for the family. A story well researched embellished to tell the author tells the story of her ancestors. A good read.
November 8, 2019
I have read quite a bit of Amish fiction. I appreciated that this was set in the 1800s. That was new to me.
Not sure why it was called Hannah's Choice though... it didn't seem like she had very much of one in the end.
Not sure why it was called Hannah's Choice though... it didn't seem like she had very much of one in the end.
February 12, 2020
I like this book and it's connection to Amish, Mennonite, Brethern and Quakers. The story brought out a bit of the differences and who each affects the other. This one is specifically about the Amish girl and her life.
December 11, 2020
This was my very first Amish fiction and overall, I liked it. The love triangle became tiresome and was extended out way too much but I am a fan of historical fiction and I enjoyed learning about a time period and a group of people I knew little about.
March 5, 2023
Hannah loves a man who isn't Amish and when another Amish man is interested in her she has to make a choice between them. Hannah's parents are moving and she is trying to decide if she will go with them. Lots of troubles affect the family.
August 9, 2017
Very good book!
Very good book. Hard to put down. Can't wait to read the next book. First time I have read this author's writing .
Very good book. Hard to put down. Can't wait to read the next book. First time I have read this author's writing .
February 10, 2019
A very good book. Can’t wait to read the second one in series
January 2, 2020
3.5 stars
January 24, 2020
This is the first book I have read by Jan Drexler and I really enjoyed it. This was a quick read, with relatable characters who struggle with decisions just like we do.
February 24, 2020
Fantastic read
I really enjoyed this book. It was my first time reading this author, but surely won't be my last .
I really enjoyed this book. It was my first time reading this author, but surely won't be my last .
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