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Plain Fame #6
Plain Christmas
It’s been nine years since Cuban singer Alejandro Diaz’s limousine collided with a young Amish woman named Amanda Beiler as she was crossing a New York City street—an accident that ignited the couple’s cross-cultural romance. Amanda loves her husband and their three children, but their fast-paced, lavish Miami lifestyle troubles her. Will her kids grow up never knowing what it’s like to simply be, without chauffeurs, social media, and paparazzi complicating their lives? When she receives a letter from her mother in Pennsylvania inviting the family to visit for Christmas, she seizes the chance to show her children a different way of life.
During their weeklong stay among the Amish community of her youth, Amanda and her family will bake cookies and milk cows, sled and crochet—and reconsider what’s truly important in life. As they prepare for their family Christmas holiday, they’ll have to make momentous decisions about their future and what “happily ever after” truly means.
During their weeklong stay among the Amish community of her youth, Amanda and her family will bake cookies and milk cows, sled and crochet—and reconsider what’s truly important in life. As they prepare for their family Christmas holiday, they’ll have to make momentous decisions about their future and what “happily ever after” truly means.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2016
136 people are currently reading
459 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Price
135 books649 followersECPA Christian Fiction Bestseller (June 2014, July 2014)
Amazon Top 100 Author for Books & eBooks (January 2016, September 2013, August 2013, May 2013, April 2013, February 2013, January 2013, December 2012)
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The author of over 30 novels, Sarah Price publishes with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall, an imprint of Brilliance Audio.
Her book, An Empty Cup, was #3 on Amazon Top 100 eBooks in January 2016.
Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice
FAMILY HERITAGE
During the early 1700s, the Preiss family arrived in America aboard an old sailing vessel called the Patience. The family left Europe, escaping Catholic persecution for their Anabaptist beliefs. Sarah Price comes from a long line of devout Mennonites, including numerous church leaders and ministers throughout the years.
In 1969, Sarah Price was born in Pennsylvania and lived on the land of her ancestors, Johannes Preiss and "King Tammany", otherwise known as Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape nation in the Delaware Valley.
In the early 1970s, her family moved to Morristown, New Jersey where she still resides with her husband, two children, and assortment of animals.
Ms. Price has advanced degrees in Communication (MA), Marketing (MBA), and Educational Leadership (PhD).
Ms. Price was a former full-time college professor. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, she now writes full-time.
Amazon Top 100 Author for Books & eBooks (January 2016, September 2013, August 2013, May 2013, April 2013, February 2013, January 2013, December 2012)
-------------------------
The author of over 30 novels, Sarah Price publishes with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall, an imprint of Brilliance Audio.
Her book, An Empty Cup, was #3 on Amazon Top 100 eBooks in January 2016.
Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice
FAMILY HERITAGE
During the early 1700s, the Preiss family arrived in America aboard an old sailing vessel called the Patience. The family left Europe, escaping Catholic persecution for their Anabaptist beliefs. Sarah Price comes from a long line of devout Mennonites, including numerous church leaders and ministers throughout the years.
In 1969, Sarah Price was born in Pennsylvania and lived on the land of her ancestors, Johannes Preiss and "King Tammany", otherwise known as Tamanend, a chief of the Lenni Lenape nation in the Delaware Valley.
In the early 1970s, her family moved to Morristown, New Jersey where she still resides with her husband, two children, and assortment of animals.
Ms. Price has advanced degrees in Communication (MA), Marketing (MBA), and Educational Leadership (PhD).
Ms. Price was a former full-time college professor. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, she now writes full-time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
October 15, 2017
This story seemed a bit unrealistic to me. Seemed like a fairy tale really. Amish girl meets super mega star literally by accident? They fall in love, marry and have children and live a very hectic life style with much fame and wealth.
It seemed somewhat unreal, even though it is fiction. Wives of mega stars usually don't share the lime light with their husbands unless maybe they are movie stars themselves. So in this respect it seems that Alejandro and Amanda Diaz were more like royalty. Such as Princess Diana and Prince Charles or Princess Catherine and Prince William.
The ending also was very unrealistic to me. Perhaps if I had read the entire series before reading Plain Christmas it would have made more sense to me. The book was a gift to me last Christmas . I loved the cover and just got around to reading it this year. Mayhaps I should read the entire series so I can then do an add on here and give more stars to my rating.
It seemed somewhat unreal, even though it is fiction. Wives of mega stars usually don't share the lime light with their husbands unless maybe they are movie stars themselves. So in this respect it seems that Alejandro and Amanda Diaz were more like royalty. Such as Princess Diana and Prince Charles or Princess Catherine and Prince William.
The ending also was very unrealistic to me. Perhaps if I had read the entire series before reading Plain Christmas it would have made more sense to me. The book was a gift to me last Christmas . I loved the cover and just got around to reading it this year. Mayhaps I should read the entire series so I can then do an add on here and give more stars to my rating.
October 19, 2016
This is the weakest of the plain fame books. However, it does bring the story full circle so definitely worth reading for those who enjoy the series!
The strongest parts of the books is definitely all the family scenes. More character development would have definitely helped the book and the series in general.
The strongest parts of the books is definitely all the family scenes. More character development would have definitely helped the book and the series in general.
December 30, 2024
A heart warming story about faith and coming together as a family . Amanda and family learned the true meaning of Christmas.
Well done!
Well done!
October 28, 2016
We are back with our unusual couple, Amanda and Alejandro, she grew up Amish and he has a Cuban background, she plain and he a national rock star, two unlikely people, but a successful couple.
Alejandro’s mother has arrived and has begun her Christmas preparations when Amanda receives a letter requesting her and the family to come home to Pennsylvania for Christmas. Sounds impossible with all the plans that have already been made, but Alejandro can never refuse Amanda, and so the family heads to Amish Country, and life is about to change for this family.
Come enjoy a simple Christmas and the true meaning of the Holiday, and along the way enjoy the happenings that bring this family closer. The sixth book in this series and this one is one of the best, I really enjoyed it.
I received this book through NetGalley and the Publisher Waterfall, and was not required to give a positive review.
Alejandro’s mother has arrived and has begun her Christmas preparations when Amanda receives a letter requesting her and the family to come home to Pennsylvania for Christmas. Sounds impossible with all the plans that have already been made, but Alejandro can never refuse Amanda, and so the family heads to Amish Country, and life is about to change for this family.
Come enjoy a simple Christmas and the true meaning of the Holiday, and along the way enjoy the happenings that bring this family closer. The sixth book in this series and this one is one of the best, I really enjoyed it.
I received this book through NetGalley and the Publisher Waterfall, and was not required to give a positive review.
November 18, 2016
Starting this book was like being reunited with old friends I hadn't seen in a while. I loved the first five books in the series and was so happy to find out there was a new book added and it is a Christmas story! What fun it was to catch up with everyone from the previous books, as well as new family members added in the nine years that passed between then and now. In this book, they go back to Amanda's hometown for Christmas and there are definitely some fun things that happen to the family! This is a sweet, Amish read that I'd highly recommend.
** Thank you to NetGalley and Waterfall Press for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review. **
** Thank you to NetGalley and Waterfall Press for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review. **
November 22, 2016
A plain Christmas? Something maybe we all need to remember what Christmas is really about.
This is book 6! For some reason when I grabbed it from Netgalley I had not realized that. I delved in anyway, hoping for the best and that Sarah Price would add enough background that I would be able to understand what in the world was happening!
Sadly, to begin with I did feel a disconnect with the characters. They felt like they were at arm's reach. As I continued to read, because the story really was intriguing, I got to know them and understand where everyone was coming from. Not know any of the characters I was waiting for their life to go up in smoke! And it does in a way.
How is it you are so busy yet still keep track of my schedule?" she marveled. She heard him chuckle. "Ahh, that's a secret, mi amor," he said, his voice low and teasing. "Shall I whisper it into your ear when I arrive home tonight?"
Allejandro really reminds me of Pit Bull! Just his lifestyle and being in the music business as well as living in Miami.
Oh, and the Cuban food! Being from Florida I was so excited to see so much talk about Cuban food! Growing up with this lifestyle makes it hard to leave so there was quite a bit of nostalgia for me.
Now enter the idyllic, and hard to get used to, life! With so much to get used to, and so far from friends, it is difficult for everyone but that is the wonderful part of this story.
What did give her reason for pause wa show many things she missed about her life as an Amish woman.
Sarah Price is able to take the reader, and her characters, to Amish country and show them this vivid world where I have no knowledge but felt like it was home. The one thing that started getting to me, but not really until the end, was the religious aspect. It only got thick a few times, and I really thank Sarah for that. I do not mind reading about a different religion, and here it really adds to the feeling, but I do mind being lectured. Never did I feel like I was being lectured but thought they way she did it matched the story's purpose.
I don't want to say too much because there is so much to be spoiled here. I am glad I was able to pick this up at book 6 but I recommend getting to know the characters first. I am positive that there is more going on behind the scenes that I do not know and only the first few would shed the light needed. Even still, Sarah Price does add in enough detail to allow new readers a glimpse at who these characters are and what their lives are like. Incredible job!
October 21, 2016
Christmas in Lititz, Pennsylvania with the Diazs. Let’s try it again. Christmas in Lititz, Pennsylvania with former Amish, Amanda, her three children and her Cuban husband, Alejandro. Sounds a bit more interesting that way.
Amanda left the Amish church to marry the man she felt God had chosen for her, although no one else seems to think her spending her life with a Cuban rapper is such a good idea. It seems she also left her Mami and sister, Anna behind when she left the farm for an exciting life with her new husband.
This is all past history and now Amanda and her family are returning to Lititz to spend Christmas with her Mami and Anna and her family whom Amanda doesn’t really know. Nine years is a long time to be away from family with only the occasional visit. The estrangement is obvious from Amanda’s lack of knowing how many children her sister has and that she is expecting another one any minute.
In general I liked the story but the character of Amanda, mother of three, seems to be so absorbed into her adoring husband’s way of life that she not only hasn’t see her family in over four years but she doesn’t seem that close to her own children. She’s supposed to be a good, honest, truthful person but I just couldn’t really like her. It seemed odd that a trip to visit her family is what it takes for her to finally wake up and realize she’s living her husband’s life and has no life of her own. I prefer stories with strong women who know how to stand up for themselves, so I think that’s why I found Amanda annoying at times.
I would have loved to have given this more stars but I’m trying to be honest in my review. I have read other Amish stories and the female characters were strong women who were interesting.
I received this in a First Reads giveaway
Amanda left the Amish church to marry the man she felt God had chosen for her, although no one else seems to think her spending her life with a Cuban rapper is such a good idea. It seems she also left her Mami and sister, Anna behind when she left the farm for an exciting life with her new husband.
This is all past history and now Amanda and her family are returning to Lititz to spend Christmas with her Mami and Anna and her family whom Amanda doesn’t really know. Nine years is a long time to be away from family with only the occasional visit. The estrangement is obvious from Amanda’s lack of knowing how many children her sister has and that she is expecting another one any minute.
In general I liked the story but the character of Amanda, mother of three, seems to be so absorbed into her adoring husband’s way of life that she not only hasn’t see her family in over four years but she doesn’t seem that close to her own children. She’s supposed to be a good, honest, truthful person but I just couldn’t really like her. It seemed odd that a trip to visit her family is what it takes for her to finally wake up and realize she’s living her husband’s life and has no life of her own. I prefer stories with strong women who know how to stand up for themselves, so I think that’s why I found Amanda annoying at times.
I would have loved to have given this more stars but I’m trying to be honest in my review. I have read other Amish stories and the female characters were strong women who were interesting.
I received this in a First Reads giveaway
October 16, 2016
Alejandro and Amanda are back. They have been at it for 9 years and are getting ready to close out the year and have so much going on. Amanda wishes she can get her family to disconnect from the world and reconnect as a family. When she gets a letter from her mom to please come home for christmas she wonders if that can happen and if maybe she can get her family to reconnect. But it seems like there are a few hurdles to cross before that all can happen. Can she and Alejandro work together to make it happen or will it be another christmas in Miami?
Sarah did not disappoint with this book at all. I really enjoyed this book and I have to say out of all the Plain series books this one hands down is my favorite. This one focused on family and finding the pieces of yourself that you can only find by going "home". This book is not just about christmas but its about the true mean of it and whats really important in life. In some of the Plain series I was not a fan of Alejandro in fact I felt in some case he was jerk and I wanted to smack him, however in this book that totally change and I fell in love with who he had become and how much growth he made. I absolutely loved the kids in this book, Sarah did an amazing job at making their little personality shine through especially little Nicolas, man him and Sofia are just spit fires.
If you are looking for a good clean read with a fun group of characters then this book is for you and you will not regret grabbing it.
Sarah did not disappoint with this book at all. I really enjoyed this book and I have to say out of all the Plain series books this one hands down is my favorite. This one focused on family and finding the pieces of yourself that you can only find by going "home". This book is not just about christmas but its about the true mean of it and whats really important in life. In some of the Plain series I was not a fan of Alejandro in fact I felt in some case he was jerk and I wanted to smack him, however in this book that totally change and I fell in love with who he had become and how much growth he made. I absolutely loved the kids in this book, Sarah did an amazing job at making their little personality shine through especially little Nicolas, man him and Sofia are just spit fires.
If you are looking for a good clean read with a fun group of characters then this book is for you and you will not regret grabbing it.
Read
November 2, 2016In a true Christmas novel Sarah Price in Plain Christmas re-introduces the reader to Cuban singer Alejandro Diaz and his wife Amanda. Amanda and Alejandro have been married 9 years now, and Amanda who was raised Amish, has adjusted to her busy life. They have enjoyed all the perks that Alejandro’s fame has provided them with, a beautiful home, private jets, the best private schools, all the tech gadgets the kids could want and very busy schedules. But with fame has come a lack of personal time, paparazzi, crowds, and few real friends.
Then Amanda receives a letter from her mother asking them to return home to Lititz, Pennsylvania and Amanda’s Amish home for Christmas. Can Amanda really go back home? How will her family respond to a simpler life? Can she and her family find happiness in both places?
This was really a fun book to read. It is actually the 6th book in a series but is written to stand-alone. It was difficult at first to see how an Amish girl could adjust to the life of being the wife to a music star, and the story seemed to crawl along. However, once they were back in the Amish community, I enjoyed it more. With it’s simple message about Christmas not being about presents but that it is a time of enjoying quality time with family and friends and the birth of Jesus, it truly had that Christmas book feel.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and Waterfall Press. I have voluntarily reviewed it.
Then Amanda receives a letter from her mother asking them to return home to Lititz, Pennsylvania and Amanda’s Amish home for Christmas. Can Amanda really go back home? How will her family respond to a simpler life? Can she and her family find happiness in both places?
This was really a fun book to read. It is actually the 6th book in a series but is written to stand-alone. It was difficult at first to see how an Amish girl could adjust to the life of being the wife to a music star, and the story seemed to crawl along. However, once they were back in the Amish community, I enjoyed it more. With it’s simple message about Christmas not being about presents but that it is a time of enjoying quality time with family and friends and the birth of Jesus, it truly had that Christmas book feel.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and Waterfall Press. I have voluntarily reviewed it.
January 1, 2017
It has been too many years since Amanda Beiler Diaz has been back to her family home in Pennsylvania. Her life is busy and revolves around her husband's singing career and their three children. She loves her life, but there is much she misses and she wonders if her children might be better off not living a rich, lavish life. When her mother writes and asks Amanda to come home for Christmas, she wants to show her children what truly makes life worth living.
Alejandro agrees and the family returns to Pennsylvania for a week. In that week, Amanda appreciates what she has missed out on while living in Miami. As she watches her children bloom in a loving, quieter environment, Amanda realizes that she and Alejandro have some decisions to make.
It was fun to see another Plain Fame book show up in Netgalley. I liked where the series ended in Plain Choice and that book was my favorite of the entire series. But, Plain Christmas picks up some years later and was just as enjoyable. It really brings Amanda and Alejandro's story full circle.
This is actually 6th in the Plain Fame series, but it can be read as a standalone book.
Alejandro agrees and the family returns to Pennsylvania for a week. In that week, Amanda appreciates what she has missed out on while living in Miami. As she watches her children bloom in a loving, quieter environment, Amanda realizes that she and Alejandro have some decisions to make.
It was fun to see another Plain Fame book show up in Netgalley. I liked where the series ended in Plain Choice and that book was my favorite of the entire series. But, Plain Christmas picks up some years later and was just as enjoyable. It really brings Amanda and Alejandro's story full circle.
This is actually 6th in the Plain Fame series, but it can be read as a standalone book.
Read
October 21, 2016Plain Christmas was book 6 in the Plain Fame series and it was the perfect ending to a wonderful series. In this book Amanda and Alejandro are living in Miami raising their three children. Alejandro has slowed down performing a bit and has become a producer in the music industry. Amanda receives a letter from her mother asking that their family spend Christmas in her home in Lititz, Pennsylvania. I love how this book incorporates humor into the story line. I was laughing aloud to some of the reactions her family had at the idea of an Amish Christmas. Then Alejandro gets Amanda to break the news to his mother which is so funny. Then to everyone's surprise she joins them in their trip.
What happens when they spend time in Lititz is really beautiful. I also love the relationship between Amanda and Alejandro which remains strong and romantic. The book ends with a huge surprise that Alejandro has for Amanda and her family.
Plain Christmas is a great book. I cannot say enough good things about this series. It is incredible and one that is hard to put down.
What happens when they spend time in Lititz is really beautiful. I also love the relationship between Amanda and Alejandro which remains strong and romantic. The book ends with a huge surprise that Alejandro has for Amanda and her family.
Plain Christmas is a great book. I cannot say enough good things about this series. It is incredible and one that is hard to put down.
October 21, 2016
*I was provided an advanced reader copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge fan of Amish novels, however, I have never read this series. Thankfully, this novel was written so that it can be read as a stand alone novel. Alejandro and Amanda live a life that is polar opposite to her Amish upbringing. After an unexpected Christmas invitation from home, the whole Diaz family return to Pennsylvania and the simple life of the Amish for a visit. Most of the family seem unhappy to be making the trip away from the sunshine, social media, and technology. However, once there, an unexpected shift starts to take place in the hearts of the entire family.
This novel is such a delightful read! There are moments when reading this that you are reminded that we all need to slow down and focus on the simpler things in life, especially time with family.
I am a huge fan of Amish novels, however, I have never read this series. Thankfully, this novel was written so that it can be read as a stand alone novel. Alejandro and Amanda live a life that is polar opposite to her Amish upbringing. After an unexpected Christmas invitation from home, the whole Diaz family return to Pennsylvania and the simple life of the Amish for a visit. Most of the family seem unhappy to be making the trip away from the sunshine, social media, and technology. However, once there, an unexpected shift starts to take place in the hearts of the entire family.
This novel is such a delightful read! There are moments when reading this that you are reminded that we all need to slow down and focus on the simpler things in life, especially time with family.
October 25, 2016
Oh wow - what an incredible faith ridden Christmas loving story - and I am just loving every moment of it. I just wanted to pull up a cuddly little blanket and spray some pine fragrance and cinnamon and make some hot chocolate and get on with the book, and I live in a very hot climate - lol - so this is a story of an Amish girl who marries a Rapper - can you believe that - they have 3 children and one Christmas her mother writes her and asks her to come home for Christmas and she has to get Alejandro to approve of it, and boy is that a task. They get there and Amanda realizes it is hard to go home but with GOD all things are possible. So, what happens? I cannot tell you that - you have to get the book to find that out but it is a doosy and you will love it. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 17, 2016
I thoroughly loved and enjoyed reading the amazing and awesome Christian romance written by the exceptionally talented Sarah Price. I received a free copy from NetGalley.
Alejandro, Amanda, and their three children go back to Lititz, Pennsylvania, for Christmas with Amanda's family. The three children all balk at the idea of leaving Miami, Florida, and their Grandma for Christmas. After Alejandro's mother, Alecia, gets over being upset that they are leaving for Christmas, Alecia decides to go with them. Amanda wants her family to experience a real Christmas, with the birth of Christ and family.
Read the highly recommended, beautifully written, engaging story line with wonderfully captivating characters that capture the reader's attention, and a must read love story of the continuing series of Alejandro and Amanda.
Alejandro, Amanda, and their three children go back to Lititz, Pennsylvania, for Christmas with Amanda's family. The three children all balk at the idea of leaving Miami, Florida, and their Grandma for Christmas. After Alejandro's mother, Alecia, gets over being upset that they are leaving for Christmas, Alecia decides to go with them. Amanda wants her family to experience a real Christmas, with the birth of Christ and family.
Read the highly recommended, beautifully written, engaging story line with wonderfully captivating characters that capture the reader's attention, and a must read love story of the continuing series of Alejandro and Amanda.
November 29, 2016
Plain Christmas seemed like a book I would not be able to put down. What better book to read than a Christmas themed one! It took me a little while to get into it, which may not have happened if I had read other books about these same characters. Once I did get into it, I had to finish it before walking away. It was not about being surprised as the story moved along. It was more of waiting for something to happen, then wondering if it would, and waiting until the end to find out if the story played out like you expected.
October 26, 2016
When Amanda asked Alejandro to take them to Pennsylvania for Christmas their lives will change. Alecia and the children are not happy about leaving Miami during the holidays. Once they are settled in at Amanda's family home every thing starts to change. Watching how the children and Alecia change is truly remarkable. The characters in this book are all very special people. You will feel God working throughout this whole book. This book deserves a higher rating than a five star review.
December 17, 2016
I like Christmas stories, and I like stories about the Amish because it gives me a glimpse into another culture that fascinates me. This book didn't satisfy either 'like'. I felt from the beginning that it just wasn't believable that a Cuban singing sensation would fall for an Amish girl.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
October 18, 2016
A beautiful, heartwarming story of the importance of the simple joys of childhood, family and faith. A wonderful telling of the true meaning of Christmas. I came away from this story feeling refreshed and brightened.
October 28, 2016
This is a wonderful twist to the story
I love the way the entire family was impacted by the Amish Christmas visit
I also love the love affair between husband and wife. Very refreshing.
I love the way the entire family was impacted by the Amish Christmas visit
I also love the love affair between husband and wife. Very refreshing.
December 17, 2016
The first 3 books of this series were well developed and well written. I struggled with this supposedly the last in the series because it was not as interesting, thought provoking and fun. I'm glad the story ends the way it does but not really sure this book needed to be added to the series.
March 28, 2017
Plain Christmas(Plain Fame Book 6)
Loved this book! Really enjoyed it! Love reading Amish books! Anyone who likes to read would really enjoy this book!!
Loved this book! Really enjoyed it! Love reading Amish books! Anyone who likes to read would really enjoy this book!!
October 20, 2016
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I have read all 6 books and have enjoyed them tremendously. The Plain series are great books. My granddaughter enjoys Sarah's writing also
I have read all 6 books and have enjoyed them tremendously. The Plain series are great books. My granddaughter enjoys Sarah's writing also
November 25, 2016
It was a beautiful story
November 20, 2016
The weird lifetime magic is still there.
November 27, 2017
Plain Christmas is the sixth book written by Sarah Price in her amazing series Plain Fame. This book can also be read as a stand alone. I have had this book for almost a year before I read it because I wanted to read it around Christmas time . I wish I would have read it when I received it because it was such an amazing story. I have read all the books in this series and I really hate to see it end. The author really puts you in the middle of this story with her descriptions of the characters and the scenery wherever it takes place.
I love the characters of Alejandro and Amanda. In this book their oldest daughter Isadora is now fourteen, their daughter Sofia is seven, and their son Nicolas is five. When Amanda receives a letter from her mother she is shocked when she asks Amanda and her family to come home to Lights, Pennsylvania for Christmas. Amanda is concerned because her mother has never made this request in the 9 years that Amanda has been married. Can Amanda convince Alejandro to make this happen? What will Alejandro's. mother say about changing theIr Christmas plans. Will this drive a wedge between Amanda and Alecia?
Amanda has always wanted to show her children a different way of life and to connect them with their cousins they have never met. Will the children embrace this Christmas vacation or will it cause more friction in the family? Can Amanda convince the kids that baking cookies, learning to Quilt and Crochet, and taking place in the Christmas program at the Amish school be a wonderful time?
There is a big surprise lurking through out this book but who is the surprise for? Will this change Amanda's family dynamics? What will this surprise do to Amanda and Alejandro's marriage. I loved this additional storyline that tIes into the original story. The author has really stepped up her story telling with this series and characters.
I was not given an advanced complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of an outstanding story that I can highly recommend to others no matter what genre they prefer. This story had me hooked from the front cover.
Congratulations to Sarah Price on once again writing another outstanding story for her readers to enjoy. I will be watching for more books from this author in the future.
I love the characters of Alejandro and Amanda. In this book their oldest daughter Isadora is now fourteen, their daughter Sofia is seven, and their son Nicolas is five. When Amanda receives a letter from her mother she is shocked when she asks Amanda and her family to come home to Lights, Pennsylvania for Christmas. Amanda is concerned because her mother has never made this request in the 9 years that Amanda has been married. Can Amanda convince Alejandro to make this happen? What will Alejandro's. mother say about changing theIr Christmas plans. Will this drive a wedge between Amanda and Alecia?
Amanda has always wanted to show her children a different way of life and to connect them with their cousins they have never met. Will the children embrace this Christmas vacation or will it cause more friction in the family? Can Amanda convince the kids that baking cookies, learning to Quilt and Crochet, and taking place in the Christmas program at the Amish school be a wonderful time?
There is a big surprise lurking through out this book but who is the surprise for? Will this change Amanda's family dynamics? What will this surprise do to Amanda and Alejandro's marriage. I loved this additional storyline that tIes into the original story. The author has really stepped up her story telling with this series and characters.
I was not given an advanced complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of an outstanding story that I can highly recommend to others no matter what genre they prefer. This story had me hooked from the front cover.
Congratulations to Sarah Price on once again writing another outstanding story for her readers to enjoy. I will be watching for more books from this author in the future.
November 23, 2017
I really enjoyed this sixth book in a fun (and sometimes suspenseful) series. I started reading this series because the premise of the first book seemed so different, and very intriguing: a romance between a Cuban-American rock star and an Amish girl. I wasn't sure if the storyline could be maintained, but the author has achieved that in ways that do not beggar belief or stretch credibility.
I later found out this series is classed as "Amish subject matter" and/or "Christian fiction" - and frankly, I would never have picked it up had I seen those labels in advance (no offence to people in those groups). I feel such labels can be misleading for books like this which would appeal to anyone - and are really unnecessary. (It's probably misleading to people IN those groups as well, as I have seen 'complaints" that there's not 'enough God', etc in the books.)
This latest book takes place about 9 years after the previous book. Amanda gets a letter from her mother asking if she might come home to the farm for Christmas. She immediately worries that something is wrong, since despite her visits to her mother being too few and far between (due to Alejandro's career and travels and Amanda's own business and family responsibilities), her mother has never asked her to come. However, plans are already in place for a big Christmas celebration in Miami, and Alejandro has committed to concerts during the holidays too. Dare she even ask him if they might possibly change everything and go to Lititz this year? And what will her mother-in-law Alecia say? Would the whole family even be able to "unplug" from modern technology for a stay in Pennsylvania farm country if they did go?
I loved how the story turned out. It seems like this book may be intended to be the finale in the series (although apparently an earlier book was originally meant to be!), but I hope it continues. There is certainly room for a continuing story - or even spin-offs!
I later found out this series is classed as "Amish subject matter" and/or "Christian fiction" - and frankly, I would never have picked it up had I seen those labels in advance (no offence to people in those groups). I feel such labels can be misleading for books like this which would appeal to anyone - and are really unnecessary. (It's probably misleading to people IN those groups as well, as I have seen 'complaints" that there's not 'enough God', etc in the books.)
This latest book takes place about 9 years after the previous book. Amanda gets a letter from her mother asking if she might come home to the farm for Christmas. She immediately worries that something is wrong, since despite her visits to her mother being too few and far between (due to Alejandro's career and travels and Amanda's own business and family responsibilities), her mother has never asked her to come. However, plans are already in place for a big Christmas celebration in Miami, and Alejandro has committed to concerts during the holidays too. Dare she even ask him if they might possibly change everything and go to Lititz this year? And what will her mother-in-law Alecia say? Would the whole family even be able to "unplug" from modern technology for a stay in Pennsylvania farm country if they did go?
I loved how the story turned out. It seems like this book may be intended to be the finale in the series (although apparently an earlier book was originally meant to be!), but I hope it continues. There is certainly room for a continuing story - or even spin-offs!
December 15, 2016
Realizing this filled her with a sudden sense of sorrow. Her children would never know what it was like to have a genuine support system like the Amish.
So I have come along Cuban singer Alejandro Diaz’s and the young Amish woman Amanda Beiler's story 10 years later which includes a marriage and 3 children. Amanda never took the baptism so she left her family without being shunned. It is only after baptism that they shun family members that leave the community. The Diaz family is in the middle of great success. Alejandro's career is on the rise with popularity and with that popularity is a demand for his time and attention. Amanda has projects of her own while supporting her husband and family. When her mother asks her to come home for Christmas, she is concerned. Will her husband support the request. How will her family respond to her family after 10 years apart.
Their story takes two worlds of the English and the Amish and points to how separated the two ways are. The demands of living a hurried lifestyle versus one that includes hard work but allows the family to enjoy the fruit together as one. Community versus individuality - the strength that is derived from community that frees you to be. The demands of individuality keeps you in chains.
I am anxious to know more of the Plain Fame adventures.
A Special Thank You to Waterfall Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
So I have come along Cuban singer Alejandro Diaz’s and the young Amish woman Amanda Beiler's story 10 years later which includes a marriage and 3 children. Amanda never took the baptism so she left her family without being shunned. It is only after baptism that they shun family members that leave the community. The Diaz family is in the middle of great success. Alejandro's career is on the rise with popularity and with that popularity is a demand for his time and attention. Amanda has projects of her own while supporting her husband and family. When her mother asks her to come home for Christmas, she is concerned. Will her husband support the request. How will her family respond to her family after 10 years apart.
Their story takes two worlds of the English and the Amish and points to how separated the two ways are. The demands of living a hurried lifestyle versus one that includes hard work but allows the family to enjoy the fruit together as one. Community versus individuality - the strength that is derived from community that frees you to be. The demands of individuality keeps you in chains.
I am anxious to know more of the Plain Fame adventures.
A Special Thank You to Waterfall Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 23, 2017
I really liked this book.
It’s been nine years since Cuban singer Alejandro Diaz’s limousine collided with a young Amish woman named Amanda Beiler as she was crossing a New York City street—an accident that ignited the couple’s cross-cultural romance. Amanda loves her husband and their three children, but their fast-paced, lavish Miami lifestyle troubles her. Will her kids grow up never knowing what it’s like to simply be, without chauffeurs, social media, and paparazzi complicating their lives? When she receives a letter from her mother in Pennsylvania inviting the family to visit for Christmas, she seizes the chance to show her children a different way of life.
During their weeklong stay among the Amish community of her youth, Amanda and her family will bake cookies and milk cows, sled and crochet—and reconsider what’s truly important in life. As they prepare for their family Christmas holiday, they’ll have to make momentous decisions about their future and what “happily ever after” truly means.
It’s been nine years since Cuban singer Alejandro Diaz’s limousine collided with a young Amish woman named Amanda Beiler as she was crossing a New York City street—an accident that ignited the couple’s cross-cultural romance. Amanda loves her husband and their three children, but their fast-paced, lavish Miami lifestyle troubles her. Will her kids grow up never knowing what it’s like to simply be, without chauffeurs, social media, and paparazzi complicating their lives? When she receives a letter from her mother in Pennsylvania inviting the family to visit for Christmas, she seizes the chance to show her children a different way of life.
During their weeklong stay among the Amish community of her youth, Amanda and her family will bake cookies and milk cows, sled and crochet—and reconsider what’s truly important in life. As they prepare for their family Christmas holiday, they’ll have to make momentous decisions about their future and what “happily ever after” truly means.
November 28, 2017
I don’t usually read novels during this busy time of year, but Plain Christmas is worth the splurge. Amanda grew up Amish, but her life dramatically changed when she married Alejandro, a Latin music superstar. Now a mom of three caught up in a lifestyle driven by fame and fortune, she plans to return to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania for the first time in years. Her family is not too sure about this drastic shift from their glamorous Miami celebrations, but Amanda is certain this is a change they all desperately need, maybe herself most of all.
My life in the Midwest is somewhere between Amanda’s fast-paced Florida living and the slow, quiet ways of her Amish homeland. I need to slow down this season. I look forward to this story unfolding in the snowy Northeast when I can snatch a few quiet moments here and there for myself this busy December.
Netgalley generously provided me a free copy of this book!
My life in the Midwest is somewhere between Amanda’s fast-paced Florida living and the slow, quiet ways of her Amish homeland. I need to slow down this season. I look forward to this story unfolding in the snowy Northeast when I can snatch a few quiet moments here and there for myself this busy December.
Netgalley generously provided me a free copy of this book!
January 11, 2020
I wasn't sure about reading a book about a world famous rapper falling in love with an Amish girl and I don't normally care for romance. But this book was reasonable. It wasn't so much that I liked the romance part. In fact, there was more detail in that area than there needed to be. But what I liked about the book is the idea of slowing our lives down to celebrate what is really important...family, relationships, and God. Why are we in such a hurry these days? The book talked about how with the fast paced and in public lifestyle that Amanda, Alejandro, and their family were living, that it all seemed so shallow, relationships were on a superficial level, and the kids even felt as if they were being used because of Alejandro's fame. There were a lot of great lessons in this book so I gave the book a 4.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
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