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The Amish Classics #5
Mount Hope: An Amish Retelling of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park
When her father can no longer provide for his large family, Fanny Price is sent away from her small Amish community in Colorado to live with her aunt’s family in Mount Hope, Ohio. Fanny immediately feels out of place at the Bontrager farm but finds a friend in her aunt’s stepson, Elijah Bontrager.
As time passes, Fanny begins to long for their friendship to blossom into something more, but her hopes are dashed when Elijah starts to court someone else. With her uncle pressuring her to marry a man who can take her off his hands, Fanny must learn to rely on God for her future.
As time passes, Fanny begins to long for their friendship to blossom into something more, but her hopes are dashed when Elijah starts to court someone else. With her uncle pressuring her to marry a man who can take her off his hands, Fanny must learn to rely on God for her future.
304 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
35 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Price
135 books651 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 36 reviews
January 23, 2017
I thought the values of Mansfield Park translated very well to an Amish setting!
August 17, 2016
A blend of the Amish life and Jane Austen's classic tale, Mansfield Park was a curiosity that I just could not pass up particularly after enjoying the earlier released Sense & Sensibility story in the same series.
While part of the Amish Classics series, each of these books are standalone sharing only the classic story retelling set in the Amish world.
As with the last book I read by this author, I felt that by placing the stories in the Amish world that there aren't as many problems cause by cultural and societal differences in the times. The Amish daily life, family, courtship, religion, and character parallel the England of two hundred years ago quite well. Being immersed in the Amish world was intriguing for me and it all felt authentic from the way the characters thought and acted to the settings described and the activities they engaged in.
The author stays pretty close to canon with her retellings in that the story line and characters are easily recognizable. I did note nuances that are different for each character and even small adjustments to the plot. I think the one change that was small, but it made a profound difference for me came near the very end. I will say that the change was to Elijah (the Edmund Bertram character) and raised him a bit in my eyes as a romance hero. Oh, don't get me wrong, he's still in want of smacking for his obliviousness, but as a young Amish man, his actions made a bit more sense and he came to his senses sooner.
Fanny is the sole narrator for this one and really the focal character so the reader gets the scenes colored with her perspective and opinion. Her thoughts could be harsh and even snitty when she was so jealous of her rival for Elijah. But I also felt some pity and understanding, too. Fanny is written as this young woman who has grown up knowing she was unwanted by her parents and treated like an inconvenient burden when she arrives to hear her two aunts fussing over who will get stuck with her. From childhood on, she learns that she must blend in, stay in the shadows, and make herself indispensable because of knowing she is unwanted and unloved by those who are her family. In fact, the author writes the uncle character to be more harsh with her and her fears are realized when she angers him and he lashes out in an unjust brutal way. Aunt Naomi (Norris) is even more hard and demanding of others and self-centered causing misery and pain for everyone around her particularly Fanny. Mary is the object of her jealousy and a little envy because how easy this other girl has it and that she captured Elijah's attention without effort. Fanny can't compete because she only knows how to give selflessly and be true to what is right even if it doesn't bring her the object of her desire.
Speaking of Mary...this particular story had me so curious to see certain characters as Amish. I just couldn't imagine Aunt Norris, Maria Bertram, Henry and Mary Crawford, and Tom Bertram as Amish. I know Amish are just ordinary people, too, but this group of characters were a stretch to imagine them living humble, simple lives and following strict religious rules. And as I read, I was intrigued by how the author managed them as Amish. They lack some of the sparkle and wit that showed up in the original tale, but the change over to Amish folks was enough so that the lack didn't show up in the story.
The author did some snipping so that the plot and pace moved along at a better clip. I appreciated that she didn't feel she had to do a one to one scene ratio with the original. I don't think this story is lacking for her choice to ditch some of the extra and stick with the more prominent story threads.
In summary, this was picked up as a curiosity piece, but I ended up impressed again with the author's voice, her adaptation in this retelling, and her creative way to bring the Austen story and characters to life Amish-style. I would recommend this story to those who enjoy Austenesque stories, inspirational fiction, and sweet romance.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange of an honest review.
This review is for The Book Rat blog's Austen in August event and copied here.
While part of the Amish Classics series, each of these books are standalone sharing only the classic story retelling set in the Amish world.
As with the last book I read by this author, I felt that by placing the stories in the Amish world that there aren't as many problems cause by cultural and societal differences in the times. The Amish daily life, family, courtship, religion, and character parallel the England of two hundred years ago quite well. Being immersed in the Amish world was intriguing for me and it all felt authentic from the way the characters thought and acted to the settings described and the activities they engaged in.
The author stays pretty close to canon with her retellings in that the story line and characters are easily recognizable. I did note nuances that are different for each character and even small adjustments to the plot. I think the one change that was small, but it made a profound difference for me came near the very end. I will say that the change was to Elijah (the Edmund Bertram character) and raised him a bit in my eyes as a romance hero. Oh, don't get me wrong, he's still in want of smacking for his obliviousness, but as a young Amish man, his actions made a bit more sense and he came to his senses sooner.
Fanny is the sole narrator for this one and really the focal character so the reader gets the scenes colored with her perspective and opinion. Her thoughts could be harsh and even snitty when she was so jealous of her rival for Elijah. But I also felt some pity and understanding, too. Fanny is written as this young woman who has grown up knowing she was unwanted by her parents and treated like an inconvenient burden when she arrives to hear her two aunts fussing over who will get stuck with her. From childhood on, she learns that she must blend in, stay in the shadows, and make herself indispensable because of knowing she is unwanted and unloved by those who are her family. In fact, the author writes the uncle character to be more harsh with her and her fears are realized when she angers him and he lashes out in an unjust brutal way. Aunt Naomi (Norris) is even more hard and demanding of others and self-centered causing misery and pain for everyone around her particularly Fanny. Mary is the object of her jealousy and a little envy because how easy this other girl has it and that she captured Elijah's attention without effort. Fanny can't compete because she only knows how to give selflessly and be true to what is right even if it doesn't bring her the object of her desire.
Speaking of Mary...this particular story had me so curious to see certain characters as Amish. I just couldn't imagine Aunt Norris, Maria Bertram, Henry and Mary Crawford, and Tom Bertram as Amish. I know Amish are just ordinary people, too, but this group of characters were a stretch to imagine them living humble, simple lives and following strict religious rules. And as I read, I was intrigued by how the author managed them as Amish. They lack some of the sparkle and wit that showed up in the original tale, but the change over to Amish folks was enough so that the lack didn't show up in the story.
The author did some snipping so that the plot and pace moved along at a better clip. I appreciated that she didn't feel she had to do a one to one scene ratio with the original. I don't think this story is lacking for her choice to ditch some of the extra and stick with the more prominent story threads.
In summary, this was picked up as a curiosity piece, but I ended up impressed again with the author's voice, her adaptation in this retelling, and her creative way to bring the Austen story and characters to life Amish-style. I would recommend this story to those who enjoy Austenesque stories, inspirational fiction, and sweet romance.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange of an honest review.
This review is for The Book Rat blog's Austen in August event and copied here.
October 8, 2022
Insopportabile: è il primo retelling di Mansfield Park in cui trovo che Mary e Henry siano i personaggi migliori, quelli che si ribellano un po' a questo sistema rigido e opprimente della vita in una comunità Amish!
Pensare che il teatro - che sarebbe completamente al di fuori delle possibilità dei nostri poveri personaggi - viene ridotto al semplice fatto di cantare inni sacri in inglese anziché in tedesco!... E naturalmente, Henry non va a trovare Fanny dai suoi quando viene mandata via dallo zio (che si chiama Timothy, per lasciare il nome Tom al figlio maggiore, mentre Edmund diventa Elija e Maria è Miriam, mentre zia Norris è Naomi) perché sarebbe altamente disdicevole! 🙅♀️
Pensare che il teatro - che sarebbe completamente al di fuori delle possibilità dei nostri poveri personaggi - viene ridotto al semplice fatto di cantare inni sacri in inglese anziché in tedesco!... E naturalmente, Henry non va a trovare Fanny dai suoi quando viene mandata via dallo zio (che si chiama Timothy, per lasciare il nome Tom al figlio maggiore, mentre Edmund diventa Elija e Maria è Miriam, mentre zia Norris è Naomi) perché sarebbe altamente disdicevole! 🙅♀️
July 16, 2020
So good and I'm so sad this series is over. I mean I get it, there are only so many Jane Austen novels you can adapt, but I really enjoyed this. I like Sarah Price's writing style and these books are just nice fluffy reads that you know will wrap up nicely. Per usual I won't summarize this one because I assume that anyone reading this adaptation will have read the original, Mansfield Park. Remarkably similar, I like the few tweaks they made to make it finish in a modern day Amish community. Instead of getting caught by their father putting on plays, they get caught singing hymns in English! The scandal!! Fantastic as always!
October 30, 2022
Mansfield Park is the Jane Austen novel with which I am least familiar, so it was interesting to me to read this book with no real way to compare the original story to the retelling.
That being said, I did like this story as its own creation. I thought it was interesting the way Fanny was treated almost as a servant, but definitely not a cousin/family member during her time with the Bontrager family. It says much of her character that she was able to understand the difference between right and wrong and know in which ways God wanted her to behave. I really enjoyed her character.
I also enjoyed Elijah, as well . . . though there were definitely some points where I had to shake my head and wonder: 'what ARE you thinking???'.
I liked that, even when she was sure that Elijah was making the incorrect choice, she prayed for God to give him peace.
3.5 stars
That being said, I did like this story as its own creation. I thought it was interesting the way Fanny was treated almost as a servant, but definitely not a cousin/family member during her time with the Bontrager family. It says much of her character that she was able to understand the difference between right and wrong and know in which ways God wanted her to behave. I really enjoyed her character.
I also enjoyed Elijah, as well . . . though there were definitely some points where I had to shake my head and wonder: 'what ARE you thinking???'.
I liked that, even when she was sure that Elijah was making the incorrect choice, she prayed for God to give him peace.
3.5 stars
October 21, 2019
Oh, I really liked this! Another that didn't disappoint!
Love the series as a whole :) It made me want to go read the rest of Jane Austen's books I haven't read yet!
This series is a MUST read!
Love the series as a whole :) It made me want to go read the rest of Jane Austen's books I haven't read yet!
This series is a MUST read!
September 27, 2023
The Amish Classics series by Sarah Price has become a new favorite of mine over the past few years. I've been a Jane Austen fan for as long as I can remember, and I love how Sarah has managed to write tasteful retellings of her beloved stories set within the Amish community. I can't even imagine the research and whatnot that must have had to go into each of these stories, and I applaud the author for the originality showcased in choosing to retell Austen's masterpieces this way.
Now if I'm being honest, I wasn't looking quite as forward to Mount Hope, as I was the rest of the series, as Mansfield Park is the only Austen novel I have actually yet to read. However, my fears were quickly diminished, and I ended up enjoying this wonderful story, and the many Austen bits brought to life on the page.
My heart broke for poor Fanny, and the horrific circumstances life seemed to continually throw at her. However, I admired how she was determined to follow God's will, and insisted on doing her best despite never getting any credit for doing so. Of course, her cousins, uncle, parent's and Henry grated on my nerves, and had me wanting to throw the book at certain points, but they definitely added the typical villainous counterpart to the story, and served their parts well.
All in all, I don't want to say too much about this one as I don't want to give away any spoilers, but it's safe to say that it's another wonderful addition to the Amish Classics series, and another winner in my eyes from Sarah Price.
Mount Hope has definitely inspired me to get on with reading Mansfield Park in the very near future, and now being somewhat more familiar with the characters, I think I'm going to love it even more.
Final Rating: 4/5.
I definitely enjoyed this one, and would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Amish fiction or Jane Austen retellings.
Now if I'm being honest, I wasn't looking quite as forward to Mount Hope, as I was the rest of the series, as Mansfield Park is the only Austen novel I have actually yet to read. However, my fears were quickly diminished, and I ended up enjoying this wonderful story, and the many Austen bits brought to life on the page.
My heart broke for poor Fanny, and the horrific circumstances life seemed to continually throw at her. However, I admired how she was determined to follow God's will, and insisted on doing her best despite never getting any credit for doing so. Of course, her cousins, uncle, parent's and Henry grated on my nerves, and had me wanting to throw the book at certain points, but they definitely added the typical villainous counterpart to the story, and served their parts well.
All in all, I don't want to say too much about this one as I don't want to give away any spoilers, but it's safe to say that it's another wonderful addition to the Amish Classics series, and another winner in my eyes from Sarah Price.
Mount Hope has definitely inspired me to get on with reading Mansfield Park in the very near future, and now being somewhat more familiar with the characters, I think I'm going to love it even more.
Final Rating: 4/5.
I definitely enjoyed this one, and would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Amish fiction or Jane Austen retellings.
August 12, 2016
I have never read Jane Austen's Mansfield Park so I can't compare this book to it. I can, however, tell you that this book is one awesome read! A great storyline and an interesting cast of characters all set against the backdrop of Amish country made this a quick and easy read.
I immediately liked and sympathized with Fanny Price. I can't even begin to imagine myself in the situation she found herself. Things weren't really better for her in Ohio with the Bontrager family. They aren't the typical Amish family I'm used to reading about. They have issues just like the non-Amish have and this made the story more real. It was interesting to see how they handled their problems or just ignored them as long as they could.
Sarah Price has a way of telling a story that pulls you in and makes you feel a part of it. I definitely felt that way while reading this book. I wanted to give Fanny a hug and tell her things would be ok. I also found myself mentally yelling at the various members of the Bontrager family. This family made me so mad at times. I would love to see a book about Fanny's younger sister, Susan. She was a breath of fresh air and I would enjoy reading more about her.
This is definitely a must read for fans of the Amish fiction genre. This would also be a great book to read if you wanted to try out the genre. I highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
I immediately liked and sympathized with Fanny Price. I can't even begin to imagine myself in the situation she found herself. Things weren't really better for her in Ohio with the Bontrager family. They aren't the typical Amish family I'm used to reading about. They have issues just like the non-Amish have and this made the story more real. It was interesting to see how they handled their problems or just ignored them as long as they could.
Sarah Price has a way of telling a story that pulls you in and makes you feel a part of it. I definitely felt that way while reading this book. I wanted to give Fanny a hug and tell her things would be ok. I also found myself mentally yelling at the various members of the Bontrager family. This family made me so mad at times. I would love to see a book about Fanny's younger sister, Susan. She was a breath of fresh air and I would enjoy reading more about her.
This is definitely a must read for fans of the Amish fiction genre. This would also be a great book to read if you wanted to try out the genre. I highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
August 18, 2016
Fanny Price’s family moved from Pennsylvania to Colorado because her father wanted a bigger farm and couldn’t afford one in Lancaster County. Farming wasn’t easy in Colorado. Daed struggled with the farm and Maem raised five children in their small house.
As they continued to struggle, it was decided that ten-year-old Fanny and her older brother William would be sent to family to lessen the burden. Fanny was sent to live with her mother’s relatives in Ohio (whom she’d never met) to help with their basket making business. William was sent to his father’s Uncle in Lancaster County to learn the carpentry trade.
This story focuses mainly on Fanny and the hardships she endures from her hateful widowed Aunt, falling in love with her cousin and best friend and watching him fall in love with someone else, her Uncle trying to force her to marry someone she doesn’t even like let alone love, and the consequences her faces for standing up to him.
As always, Sarah Price gives us another well written book that I enjoyed reading. I felt so bad for Fanny at times and cheered for her at other times. Pick up a copy and read Fanny’s story. You’ll be glad you did!
As they continued to struggle, it was decided that ten-year-old Fanny and her older brother William would be sent to family to lessen the burden. Fanny was sent to live with her mother’s relatives in Ohio (whom she’d never met) to help with their basket making business. William was sent to his father’s Uncle in Lancaster County to learn the carpentry trade.
This story focuses mainly on Fanny and the hardships she endures from her hateful widowed Aunt, falling in love with her cousin and best friend and watching him fall in love with someone else, her Uncle trying to force her to marry someone she doesn’t even like let alone love, and the consequences her faces for standing up to him.
As always, Sarah Price gives us another well written book that I enjoyed reading. I felt so bad for Fanny at times and cheered for her at other times. Pick up a copy and read Fanny’s story. You’ll be glad you did!
August 27, 2016
This story is the retelling of Jane Austin’s Mansfield Park with an Amish Twist. Fanny Price is an obedient young girl and helps her family as much as she can at eight years; the family is very poor and struggling to survive in Colorado. Now the parents make a life changing decision for Fanny and she is sent to live with her mother’s sisters in Ohio, can you imagine doing such a thing?
Fanny Price becomes a model Amish woman, and again is very obedient, although she tries to meld into the woodwork; she is very attentive to her aunts. Her one solace is her aunt’s stepson, Elijah, who talks to her and really seems to see her, the one person she can share with.
Of course life can never be smooth, and we travel these rough spots though Fanny’s eyes, and really walk in her shoes. Will she ever find her own man, home and children, or is she destined to be a caretaker for the older members of the family.
I really enjoyed this read, and as some of the sinister members try to take hold, we hope for the best for our Fanny.
I received this book through Net Galley the Publisher Realms, and was not required to give a positive review.
Fanny Price becomes a model Amish woman, and again is very obedient, although she tries to meld into the woodwork; she is very attentive to her aunts. Her one solace is her aunt’s stepson, Elijah, who talks to her and really seems to see her, the one person she can share with.
Of course life can never be smooth, and we travel these rough spots though Fanny’s eyes, and really walk in her shoes. Will she ever find her own man, home and children, or is she destined to be a caretaker for the older members of the family.
I really enjoyed this read, and as some of the sinister members try to take hold, we hope for the best for our Fanny.
I received this book through Net Galley the Publisher Realms, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 13, 2017
Wonderful!!
So, I haven’t read Jane Austin’s “Mansfield Park” YET! but I thought this story was great as a stand-alone!! I’ve read a few of Sarah Prices other Amish renditions of Jane Austin’s novels and they’ve been true to story (so I assume this one is too). The characters in here are well pieces together and Fanny (main character) actually has quite a bit of depth! You really get to hear her thoughts and, in a way, become Fanny in the story! You feel her emotions and go through everything with her, even feeling all the frustrations she must have felt (although not always written) toward the others because, like I said, you can really put yourself in her shoes for the entire story! Overall, great read! Definitely recommend it for those looking for a wholesome Amish story and/or a well composed twist of a Jane Austin favorite!!
So, I haven’t read Jane Austin’s “Mansfield Park” YET! but I thought this story was great as a stand-alone!! I’ve read a few of Sarah Prices other Amish renditions of Jane Austin’s novels and they’ve been true to story (so I assume this one is too). The characters in here are well pieces together and Fanny (main character) actually has quite a bit of depth! You really get to hear her thoughts and, in a way, become Fanny in the story! You feel her emotions and go through everything with her, even feeling all the frustrations she must have felt (although not always written) toward the others because, like I said, you can really put yourself in her shoes for the entire story! Overall, great read! Definitely recommend it for those looking for a wholesome Amish story and/or a well composed twist of a Jane Austin favorite!!
January 30, 2019
This just isn't a book for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Charisma House for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Its interesting to look into the Amish community and I learned a lot about them. But the pace was slow and I became disinterested in the characters. I also didn't like how cult like the Amish society is.
Thanks to Netgalley and Charisma House for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Its interesting to look into the Amish community and I learned a lot about them. But the pace was slow and I became disinterested in the characters. I also didn't like how cult like the Amish society is.
October 15, 2016
I rather liked this. Henry was slimey in just the right way. Genuinely moving in places.
December 5, 2016
Loved this book. Sarah price always writes such Great books that can get in to and not keep my eyes off . love the cover as well.
July 1, 2019
Another great book by Sarah Price. I really enjoy her Amish romance series’s. Always good character descriptions. If you like a Christian romance, this is excellent choice.
February 11, 2022
Well, I do have to give this retelling full credit for keeping the Edmund/Fanny love story intact and not romanticizing Henry's creepy pursuit of a woman who'd very politely told him to go boil his head.
(you writers who have failed in this area know who you are, shame on you:
)
That said, and despite it being an enjoyable read, there was just something MISSING in a lot of this; it felt like some of the side characters kind of got the shaft in this version, or that certain events reimagined from the original happened too quickly.
For example, while I enjoyed that this Henry DOESN'T visit Fanny in Colorado the way the original creep followed her to Portsmouth, because I'm not a Crawford(s) fan and any change that keeps the focus less on them and more on Fanny's feelings and revelations and struggles is good, it DID make his affair with the "Maria" character in this really a special kind of random. (Not to mention stupid.)
Wasn't he waiting to see if she'd relent? I mean, in this version her being sent away is much more overtly a punishment than the original. The uncle flat out tells her she can't come home if she doesn't agree to marry Henry. Here it's not a case of Henry's desire to win Fanny going too slow and him wanting immediate pleasure, it's just him randomly having an out of context affair with her cousin in a barn with no build up.
Then I just didn't like how Thomas despite being the oldest didn't get the farm in the end. Like, great for Elijah (Amish Edmund) and Fanny, I'm happy for them, but Thomas literally just went through freaking trauma and almost died, and all that happens is he gets better, does more chores, but inherits jackpoo-poo?
So, it's a good book, the writing isn't bad (maybe not my favorite style, personally, but not bad), and the plot translated reasonably well, however if you want a more compelling and believable Christian fiction update of Mansfield Park where Tom Bertram is done justice as well as Edmund and Fanny, maybe try "The Beresfords" instead. It's clearly the superior retelling.
As you can see from my updates however, I really did love this book's prologue, and was disappointed in how it didn't hold up. Even her relationship with William, so beautifully built up in the opening peters off.
(you writers who have failed in this area know who you are, shame on you:
)That said, and despite it being an enjoyable read, there was just something MISSING in a lot of this; it felt like some of the side characters kind of got the shaft in this version, or that certain events reimagined from the original happened too quickly.
For example, while I enjoyed that this Henry DOESN'T visit Fanny in Colorado the way the original creep followed her to Portsmouth, because I'm not a Crawford(s) fan and any change that keeps the focus less on them and more on Fanny's feelings and revelations and struggles is good, it DID make his affair with the "Maria" character in this really a special kind of random. (Not to mention stupid.)
Wasn't he waiting to see if she'd relent? I mean, in this version her being sent away is much more overtly a punishment than the original. The uncle flat out tells her she can't come home if she doesn't agree to marry Henry. Here it's not a case of Henry's desire to win Fanny going too slow and him wanting immediate pleasure, it's just him randomly having an out of context affair with her cousin in a barn with no build up.
Then I just didn't like how Thomas despite being the oldest didn't get the farm in the end. Like, great for Elijah (Amish Edmund) and Fanny, I'm happy for them, but Thomas literally just went through freaking trauma and almost died, and all that happens is he gets better, does more chores, but inherits jackpoo-poo?
So, it's a good book, the writing isn't bad (maybe not my favorite style, personally, but not bad), and the plot translated reasonably well, however if you want a more compelling and believable Christian fiction update of Mansfield Park where Tom Bertram is done justice as well as Edmund and Fanny, maybe try "The Beresfords" instead. It's clearly the superior retelling.
As you can see from my updates however, I really did love this book's prologue, and was disappointed in how it didn't hold up. Even her relationship with William, so beautifully built up in the opening peters off.
May 16, 2023
Feeling fully welcomed and wanted was not always a reality for Fanny Price. Having to leave her home in Colorado because her Amish family could no longer provide for her left her 10 year old self wanting to prove herself worthy. Coming to Mount Hope to live with her mother's sisters, Fanny thought she would have some sympathy. Instead of living in self-pity, she saw opportunities of good character in the lot she was given. Living with her aunt and uncle and their children, I felt like I was reading an account of Cinderella. I have not read Mansfield Park so after reading Mount Hope's account, I will have to make a point. There was a prince charming in Fanny's life and that was her cousin by marriage. Her uncle had children from a previous marriage and Elijah Bontrager was her knight and shining armour in Amish style.
Eight years later, the family dynamics are changing with a brother and sister visiting from another community that do not hold to tradition Amish teachings. They bring havoc to the family and the friendship of Elijah and Fanny.
Fanny is a strong character that holds to what is right and wrong. Her faith is not means to an end but because it is right. Strong lessons of faith that I always appreciate.
A special thank you to Charisma House and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Eight years later, the family dynamics are changing with a brother and sister visiting from another community that do not hold to tradition Amish teachings. They bring havoc to the family and the friendship of Elijah and Fanny.
Fanny is a strong character that holds to what is right and wrong. Her faith is not means to an end but because it is right. Strong lessons of faith that I always appreciate.
A special thank you to Charisma House and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 16, 2021
Questo è uno di quei titoli che ho iniziato a leggere con l'atteggiamento da "perché no?" per passare un pomeriggio, e ha risposto alle aspettative nel senso che mi ha intrattenuto senza troppe pretese. Non so quanto possa interessare al di fuori della nicchia degli appassionati di Jane Austen. L'unica critica che gli devo muovere - al di là di scelte e interpretazioni - è il modo in cui l'apatia di Martha, l'equivalente di Lady Bertram, viene alla fine presentata come una depressione a cui lei non ha saputo opporsi, come se il disagio mentale fosse una scelta. Ecco, questo mi ha disturbato molto.
March 14, 2025
sweet love story
I was not familiar with Mansfield Park until I read this adaptation. Fanny is a long suffering heroine who has had a very hard life. My heart just broke for her many times in this story. I was so thrilled when she finally got her HEA and who she got it with. A beautiful story of romantic love, and most of all God’s love. We may not always see His plan, but He always has our best at heart. Highly recommend!
I was not familiar with Mansfield Park until I read this adaptation. Fanny is a long suffering heroine who has had a very hard life. My heart just broke for her many times in this story. I was so thrilled when she finally got her HEA and who she got it with. A beautiful story of romantic love, and most of all God’s love. We may not always see His plan, but He always has our best at heart. Highly recommend!
July 13, 2019
Loved this book!
December 19, 2020
This was a good way to retell Mansfield Park in an Amish setting.
February 24, 2021
This was really nice. I love that all of these books have closure.
April 11, 2023
I’m so enjoying the Amish Classic series by Sarah Price. This was no exception. A marvelous read.
March 27, 2024
Got this book from a small bookstore. I loved it.
All the characters were very interesting even Henry.
Keep me interested and turning the page.
All the characters were very interesting even Henry.
Keep me interested and turning the page.
July 17, 2022
I really like this retelling of Mansfield Park. The Amish setting works so well for the story. I only wish the ending hadn't felt so rushed.
August 27, 2016
Mount Hope è la rivisitazione in chiave Amish di uno dei romanzi meno conosciuti di Jane Austen, Mansfield Park.
Quinto per uscita dopo i retelling degli altri classici più noti della stessa autrice, è, con grande sorpresa, il mio preferito finora (non in assoluto in quanto per me manca ancora all'appello Sense and sensibility).
La storia comincia con la descrizione delle condizioni in cui versa la famiglia della protagonista Fanny, ancora decenne, in Colorado, in una comunità Amish non molto prospera né promettente.
Ho amato il primo capitolo, per lo stile e il modo in cui la vicenda è introdotta, con la povera Fanny che si ritrova di punto in bianco mandata via dalla sua casa per andare incontro a un destino incerto a Mount Hope, in Ohio.
Il romanzo prosegue in modo abbastanza aderente all'originale, con dei piccoli cambiamenti dovuti alla nuova ambientazione, che ben si presta all'adattamento di un libro scritto nel XIX secolo.
Fanny cresce così nella casa dell'abbiente famiglia Bontrager, con i due cugini nati dal primo matrimonio dello zio, le due cugine Miriam e Julia e la zia Martha, qui caduta in uno stato di profonda prostrazione e depressione a causa del carattere prepotente del marito e delle pesanti ingerenze della sorella Naomi, vedova del vescovo, nella gestione della casa.
Fanny cresce sentendosi non voluta, sfruttata dalle indolenti cugine, ma amata almeno da Elija, il suo Bontrager preferito.
Il silenzio e l'umiltà della protagonista sono compensati da un'acuta capacità di osservazione, che le permette di accorgersi delle condizioni sempre più critiche della zia Martha, del carattere superficiale delle cugine, e, soprattutto, di smascherare immediatamente i fratelli Coblentz, Mary ed Henry.
La prima è causa di tremendo dolore per Fanny, che si accorge, sola, che la ragazza non è interessata ad Elija, il quale ad un certo punto è davvero innamorato di lei, bensì solo alla sua futura eredità.
Il secondo è qui ritratto in modo anche peggiore rispetto all'Henry originale: non solo è un ragazzo sfrontato che non segue le regole della comunità e flirta con entrambe le sorelle Bontrager, ma non pare nemmeno interessato a Fanny, quanto piuttosto alla sfida di conquistarla; non si cura dei suoi bisogni, non la ascolta, non tiene la porta aperta per lei proprio quando sta cercando di affascinarla.
Purtroppo nella storia manca del tutto l'apparizione di Henry in casa Price - che aspettavo con molta curiosità -, cosa forse non adattabile al mondo Amish.
Mi è piaciuto molto come l'autrice ha descritto i rapporti di Fanny con la sua famiglia d'origine: il breve incontro con il fratello prima prediletto, William, finisce per risultare molto triste, in quanto la protagonista si rende conto che ormai non sono altro che estranei l'uno per l'altra, mentre il ritorno della ragazza in Colorado mi ha fatto quasi palpare tutto lo squallore di quella casa isolata e la mancanza di calore e affetto in una famiglia povera e senza speranze di miglioramento.
Come gli altri volumi della serie, il romanzo ci permette di conoscere più da vicino gli usi e costumi delle comunità Amish, e questa storia in particolare ci fa assistere a un battesimo, una cerimonia con cui i giovani adulti scelgono di vincolarsi alla chiesa - quindi alla vita Amish - dopo il rumschpringe, il periodo in cui è a loro permesso vivere nel mondo al di fuori della comunità.
http://iltesorodicarta.blogspot.it/20...
Quinto per uscita dopo i retelling degli altri classici più noti della stessa autrice, è, con grande sorpresa, il mio preferito finora (non in assoluto in quanto per me manca ancora all'appello Sense and sensibility).
La storia comincia con la descrizione delle condizioni in cui versa la famiglia della protagonista Fanny, ancora decenne, in Colorado, in una comunità Amish non molto prospera né promettente.
Ho amato il primo capitolo, per lo stile e il modo in cui la vicenda è introdotta, con la povera Fanny che si ritrova di punto in bianco mandata via dalla sua casa per andare incontro a un destino incerto a Mount Hope, in Ohio.
Il romanzo prosegue in modo abbastanza aderente all'originale, con dei piccoli cambiamenti dovuti alla nuova ambientazione, che ben si presta all'adattamento di un libro scritto nel XIX secolo.
Fanny cresce così nella casa dell'abbiente famiglia Bontrager, con i due cugini nati dal primo matrimonio dello zio, le due cugine Miriam e Julia e la zia Martha, qui caduta in uno stato di profonda prostrazione e depressione a causa del carattere prepotente del marito e delle pesanti ingerenze della sorella Naomi, vedova del vescovo, nella gestione della casa.
Fanny cresce sentendosi non voluta, sfruttata dalle indolenti cugine, ma amata almeno da Elija, il suo Bontrager preferito.
Il silenzio e l'umiltà della protagonista sono compensati da un'acuta capacità di osservazione, che le permette di accorgersi delle condizioni sempre più critiche della zia Martha, del carattere superficiale delle cugine, e, soprattutto, di smascherare immediatamente i fratelli Coblentz, Mary ed Henry.
La prima è causa di tremendo dolore per Fanny, che si accorge, sola, che la ragazza non è interessata ad Elija, il quale ad un certo punto è davvero innamorato di lei, bensì solo alla sua futura eredità.
Il secondo è qui ritratto in modo anche peggiore rispetto all'Henry originale: non solo è un ragazzo sfrontato che non segue le regole della comunità e flirta con entrambe le sorelle Bontrager, ma non pare nemmeno interessato a Fanny, quanto piuttosto alla sfida di conquistarla; non si cura dei suoi bisogni, non la ascolta, non tiene la porta aperta per lei proprio quando sta cercando di affascinarla.
Purtroppo nella storia manca del tutto l'apparizione di Henry in casa Price - che aspettavo con molta curiosità -, cosa forse non adattabile al mondo Amish.
Mi è piaciuto molto come l'autrice ha descritto i rapporti di Fanny con la sua famiglia d'origine: il breve incontro con il fratello prima prediletto, William, finisce per risultare molto triste, in quanto la protagonista si rende conto che ormai non sono altro che estranei l'uno per l'altra, mentre il ritorno della ragazza in Colorado mi ha fatto quasi palpare tutto lo squallore di quella casa isolata e la mancanza di calore e affetto in una famiglia povera e senza speranze di miglioramento.
Come gli altri volumi della serie, il romanzo ci permette di conoscere più da vicino gli usi e costumi delle comunità Amish, e questa storia in particolare ci fa assistere a un battesimo, una cerimonia con cui i giovani adulti scelgono di vincolarsi alla chiesa - quindi alla vita Amish - dopo il rumschpringe, il periodo in cui è a loro permesso vivere nel mondo al di fuori della comunità.
http://iltesorodicarta.blogspot.it/20...
August 10, 2017
"Mount Hope: An Amish Retelling of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park" starts out in a small Amish community in Colorado, that morning Fanny Price finds out that she and her brother will be leaving the family, and each will be living with different family members back east. In less than thiry-six hours, Fanny is living with her aunt and family in Mount Hope, Ohio. Feeling out of place at the Bontrager farm, Fanny finds a friend in her older cousin, Elijah Bontrager.
As years have passed, Fanny has not over come her shyness, preferring solitude, but is very observant. Her relationship with Elijah takes a shift in a different direction. Fanny finds herself conflicted as to what to do about it.
When her uncle presses her to marry a guy she doesn't feel is worthy of her hand, Fanny can't seem to find it in herself to tell her uncle the whole truth. It's what her uncle does and the events afterwards that the eyes are opened!
Sarah Price writes with ease, that makes the story flow smoothly, and not missing a bit of details. Her characters take on human-like persona. Sarah stays true to the Amish culture and faith of the area she's writing about, but most importantly of Amish districts and people.
I have nothing but good comments and praises to say about Sarah Price's books. I have read all of her work beginning with "Fields of Corn" to her current book "Mount Hope: An Amish Retelling of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park". I must admit I haven't read Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park", but I can't imagine that it could be any better than Sarah Price's Amish twist on the story. I think Sarah Price is very skilled at illustrating how well Jane Austen’s world can translate to Amish culture in her stories.
I look forward to reading more of Sarah Price's books in the future.
I received a free copy from NetGalley with the only request to write an honest review about the book. No money was exchanged. This is my review written in my own words.
As years have passed, Fanny has not over come her shyness, preferring solitude, but is very observant. Her relationship with Elijah takes a shift in a different direction. Fanny finds herself conflicted as to what to do about it.
When her uncle presses her to marry a guy she doesn't feel is worthy of her hand, Fanny can't seem to find it in herself to tell her uncle the whole truth. It's what her uncle does and the events afterwards that the eyes are opened!
Sarah Price writes with ease, that makes the story flow smoothly, and not missing a bit of details. Her characters take on human-like persona. Sarah stays true to the Amish culture and faith of the area she's writing about, but most importantly of Amish districts and people.
I have nothing but good comments and praises to say about Sarah Price's books. I have read all of her work beginning with "Fields of Corn" to her current book "Mount Hope: An Amish Retelling of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park". I must admit I haven't read Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park", but I can't imagine that it could be any better than Sarah Price's Amish twist on the story. I think Sarah Price is very skilled at illustrating how well Jane Austen’s world can translate to Amish culture in her stories.
I look forward to reading more of Sarah Price's books in the future.
I received a free copy from NetGalley with the only request to write an honest review about the book. No money was exchanged. This is my review written in my own words.
November 1, 2016
This is the first of Sarah Price’s Amish Jane Austen retellings that I’ve read. Mansfield Park is not my favourite of Jane Austen’s novels, but that being said, the story translates well to the Amish setting, and was generally an enjoyable read.
For those who are familiar with the original story, there won’t be any surprises in the plot. For those who are not familiar with it, much of the action revolves around the arrival of brother and sister, Henry and Mary Coblentz, in the Mount Hope Amish community. The novel opens with a prologue showing ten year old Fanny being sent to live with her aunt and uncle in Mount Hope, and then skips forward eight years to a time when Fanny and her four cousins, Thomas, Elijah, Miriam, and Julia, are all of marriageable age.
Fanny tends to be overlooked by her cousins, barring Elijah, unless they want her to complete their chores so they may go courting; or, in the case of Thomas, get up to whatever young Amish men get up to on Rumschpringe. But when Mary Coblentz arrives with her brother, even Elijah seems to have turned his attention elsewhere. Fanny is the only one reluctant to socialise with a man who doesn’t hesitate to flirt with engaged women, and to see beyond the veneer of respectability the siblings present. She is also the only one who can see the tensions that are mounting as Miriam and Julia vie for Henry’s attention, right under the nose of Miriam’s betrothed. And she knows ‘for sure and certain’ that Mary is the wrong woman for Elijah.
The one things that slowed this story down for me was the author’s habit of telling (at length) rather than showing, and of spending time explaining aspects of Amish life beyond what was required to understand the story. I’m the sort of reader who prefers a simple ‘Elijah shifted his weight from one foot to another’, rather than the longer and more unwieldy, ‘She noticed that Elijah shifted his weight from one foot to another as if he felt uncomfortable with his father’s words.’ I don’t want the characters to interpret what they see for me. It’s far more engaging for me, as a reader, if I am able to interpret the character’s actions for myself, without the help of the narrating character.
I will say, however, that there is a nice flow the writing, and if the idea of a Jane Austen novel in an Amish setting appeals to you, then you will probably enjoy this one. Personally, I'm interested to see how she handles Pride & Prejudice in First impressions.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.
For those who are familiar with the original story, there won’t be any surprises in the plot. For those who are not familiar with it, much of the action revolves around the arrival of brother and sister, Henry and Mary Coblentz, in the Mount Hope Amish community. The novel opens with a prologue showing ten year old Fanny being sent to live with her aunt and uncle in Mount Hope, and then skips forward eight years to a time when Fanny and her four cousins, Thomas, Elijah, Miriam, and Julia, are all of marriageable age.
Fanny tends to be overlooked by her cousins, barring Elijah, unless they want her to complete their chores so they may go courting; or, in the case of Thomas, get up to whatever young Amish men get up to on Rumschpringe. But when Mary Coblentz arrives with her brother, even Elijah seems to have turned his attention elsewhere. Fanny is the only one reluctant to socialise with a man who doesn’t hesitate to flirt with engaged women, and to see beyond the veneer of respectability the siblings present. She is also the only one who can see the tensions that are mounting as Miriam and Julia vie for Henry’s attention, right under the nose of Miriam’s betrothed. And she knows ‘for sure and certain’ that Mary is the wrong woman for Elijah.
The one things that slowed this story down for me was the author’s habit of telling (at length) rather than showing, and of spending time explaining aspects of Amish life beyond what was required to understand the story. I’m the sort of reader who prefers a simple ‘Elijah shifted his weight from one foot to another’, rather than the longer and more unwieldy, ‘She noticed that Elijah shifted his weight from one foot to another as if he felt uncomfortable with his father’s words.’ I don’t want the characters to interpret what they see for me. It’s far more engaging for me, as a reader, if I am able to interpret the character’s actions for myself, without the help of the narrating character.
I will say, however, that there is a nice flow the writing, and if the idea of a Jane Austen novel in an Amish setting appeals to you, then you will probably enjoy this one. Personally, I'm interested to see how she handles Pride & Prejudice in First impressions.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.
September 13, 2016
A Wunderbar Amish Classic!
Eloquent and masterful storyteller, Sarah Price, pens a unique Amish tale superbly blended with Jane Austen's classic, Mansfield Park, and distinctly makes it her own! In this timeless tale we perceive that the road to love is oftentimes very rocky and appearances can be very deceiving.
When her father can no longer provide for his family he sends Fanny Price to live with her aunt's family in Mount Hope, Ohio. Never feeling a part of the Bontrager family, Fanny is basically a loner—not taking part in the young people's activities and singings—but choosing instead to stay at home and do whatever work is needed on the large prosperous farm. Befriended only by her aunt's stepson, Elijah, Fanny so yearns for their special friendship to turn into something deeper.
However, when two strangers visit their Amish community—the lovely, Mary Coblentz and her charming, flirtatious brother, Henry—Elijah's attentions are swiftly diverted, much to Fanny's dismay. What ensues are plenty of twists and turns as the roguish Henry causes plenty of jealousies to arise, Elijah becomes besotted with Mary, and the heartbroken Fanny finds herself with a suitor as well. Will he help her to forget the only man she has ever loved?
Author Sarah Price has written a fascinating tale of deceit, betrayal, and unrequited love that finely parallels Jane Austen's classic masterpiece! I literally could not put it down except out of necessity. Fanny is truly a stick-in-the-mud, but with good reason. She tries so hard to gain acceptance from her new family by doing everything for them, that she loses herself in the process. She so seldom laughed or had fun, that when she did it brought a smile to my face as well. I so wanted her to find her mouth even if I had to shake her to bring that about! lol I honestly didn't care who Fanny ended up with as long as she was happy and I wasn't at all sure who that "someone" would be until almost the very end of the book. I love unpredictable and that's why I so enjoyed this "out of the box" Amish book with its capricious characters! You don't have to be an Amish book lover or even a Jane Austen fan to thoroughly relish this enjoyable, never boring new release! Be sure to order your copy today!
Eloquent and masterful storyteller, Sarah Price, pens a unique Amish tale superbly blended with Jane Austen's classic, Mansfield Park, and distinctly makes it her own! In this timeless tale we perceive that the road to love is oftentimes very rocky and appearances can be very deceiving.
When her father can no longer provide for his family he sends Fanny Price to live with her aunt's family in Mount Hope, Ohio. Never feeling a part of the Bontrager family, Fanny is basically a loner—not taking part in the young people's activities and singings—but choosing instead to stay at home and do whatever work is needed on the large prosperous farm. Befriended only by her aunt's stepson, Elijah, Fanny so yearns for their special friendship to turn into something deeper.
However, when two strangers visit their Amish community—the lovely, Mary Coblentz and her charming, flirtatious brother, Henry—Elijah's attentions are swiftly diverted, much to Fanny's dismay. What ensues are plenty of twists and turns as the roguish Henry causes plenty of jealousies to arise, Elijah becomes besotted with Mary, and the heartbroken Fanny finds herself with a suitor as well. Will he help her to forget the only man she has ever loved?
Author Sarah Price has written a fascinating tale of deceit, betrayal, and unrequited love that finely parallels Jane Austen's classic masterpiece! I literally could not put it down except out of necessity. Fanny is truly a stick-in-the-mud, but with good reason. She tries so hard to gain acceptance from her new family by doing everything for them, that she loses herself in the process. She so seldom laughed or had fun, that when she did it brought a smile to my face as well. I so wanted her to find her mouth even if I had to shake her to bring that about! lol I honestly didn't care who Fanny ended up with as long as she was happy and I wasn't at all sure who that "someone" would be until almost the very end of the book. I love unpredictable and that's why I so enjoyed this "out of the box" Amish book with its capricious characters! You don't have to be an Amish book lover or even a Jane Austen fan to thoroughly relish this enjoyable, never boring new release! Be sure to order your copy today!
July 30, 2016
Fanny is only 10 years old when her and her brother William her their parents talking and whispering, they wonder if they are going to sell the farm and go back to Lancaster County. What she didn't expect was being send off to her moms family in Ohio. When she arrives she tries to find her place. Now 8 years later she still is trying to find her place and also she is trying to find the love of her life, or has she already found him?
I really really enjoyed this book, Sarah has really knocked it out of the park with this book oh who am I kidding she always does. I have to admit I have never read anything Jane Austen and I know this book is mirrored after one story, however I feel this book was very much a twisted cinderella story. I loved the sassiness, but the tender heart of Fanny. I hated, ok maybe thats a strong word but I totally did not like Timothy, Naomi, or Mariam my dislike for them is because Sarah did an amazing job at connecting the reader with the characters. Sarah has a way in her books of making the reader connect in a way that you feel like you are catching up with a friend and not just reading a story and she has done that again in this book. There is nothing I did not like about this book. I loved that its a good christian/clean read. If you have never read any of her book seriously grab this one and have fun.
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
I really really enjoyed this book, Sarah has really knocked it out of the park with this book oh who am I kidding she always does. I have to admit I have never read anything Jane Austen and I know this book is mirrored after one story, however I feel this book was very much a twisted cinderella story. I loved the sassiness, but the tender heart of Fanny. I hated, ok maybe thats a strong word but I totally did not like Timothy, Naomi, or Mariam my dislike for them is because Sarah did an amazing job at connecting the reader with the characters. Sarah has a way in her books of making the reader connect in a way that you feel like you are catching up with a friend and not just reading a story and she has done that again in this book. There is nothing I did not like about this book. I loved that its a good christian/clean read. If you have never read any of her book seriously grab this one and have fun.
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
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