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Hawaiian #1
The Hawaiian Quilt
New York Times best-selling author Wanda E. Brunstetter and her daughter-in-law, Jean, take listeners to Hawaii on an Amish woman’s adventure of a lifetime.
Mandy Frey has always longed to see Hawaii, so before joining the Amish church and considering marriage to her boyfriend, Gideon, she convinces three friends to join her on a cruise of the Hawaiian Islands.
Captured by the enchanting scenery and culture in Hawaii, their vacation turns into an extended stay. Special friendships are soon made, but home, family, and Gideon await Mandy back in Indiana. Will time away from the Amish community change Mandy’s view of the world, her faith, and true love? Does a Hawaiian quilt have the power to bring two hearts together?
Mandy Frey has always longed to see Hawaii, so before joining the Amish church and considering marriage to her boyfriend, Gideon, she convinces three friends to join her on a cruise of the Hawaiian Islands.
Captured by the enchanting scenery and culture in Hawaii, their vacation turns into an extended stay. Special friendships are soon made, but home, family, and Gideon await Mandy back in Indiana. Will time away from the Amish community change Mandy’s view of the world, her faith, and true love? Does a Hawaiian quilt have the power to bring two hearts together?
Audio CD
First published September 1, 2016
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561 people want to read
About the author
Wanda E. Brunstetter
216 books2,329 followersNew York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
March 30, 2019
Mandy Frey has dreamed of a trip to Hawaii for years. She and her four friends work hard to save up for a cruise of the Hawaiian Islands and excitedly await their departure. Since none of them have been baptized into the Amish faith, their trip has been approved by their parents and community. They are all having a wonderful time until Mandy and her friend Ellen miss the cruise ship and are stranded on Kauai. By the grace of God they are led to a Bed and Breakfast run by a Christian couple. Mandy feels a connection to the beauty of her surroundings and was happy to step up to help the couple in their time of need. The longer she stays, the more she questions her future. What will she decide?
A sweet story of discovery and learning to follow your heart. With a few twists, a nice change from the typical Amish novel.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
A sweet story of discovery and learning to follow your heart. With a few twists, a nice change from the typical Amish novel.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
June 3, 2018
I've mentioned a hundred or so times how I'm an emotional reviewer. I do my best rambling about a book when it's fresh in my mind. The more time I put between the rambling and the book the less panache I have to put into a review. All that to say I'm struggling here people. I finished this book a couple of days about but there's a whole real life and day job thing that too precedence over writing. And here I sit not sure I can pull all those immediate thoughts to the front of my brain and out my fingers.
Wanda consistently gives me vibrant, simple characters. She gives me amazing stories that soothe my heart. I mean this in the most glowing way possible. Simple characters with little to no drama just living their life and figuring out the next best thing for them. Wanda lets me slow down and just enjoy life. I love that about her books. With 'The Hawaiian Quilt' Wanda stepped out a bit, all in good ways. First, this story reads like her older books, greater depth of content. We tag along as Mandy and Ellen find themselves in a situation that you don't plan for. We watch as they find a way to make it work for them and their new friends. I mean I spent the last half of the book talking myself out of flipping to the end to see what Mandy chose. For me those decisions were pretty important. It was a need to know situation. Secondly, can we just say Hawaii. I mean you don't really think about the Amish in Hawaii. I didn't even know your could take a cruise from the mainland to Hawaii.
To be honest, the only thing that I didn't love in this book was Ellen. Unexpectedly set in a tropical paradise with amazing new friends and she can't embrace any part of it. I feel like Ellen threw away an amazing opportunity to explore her world in a way she may never have again. No one asked her to forget her faith or even her devotion but I feel like she used her legalistic view of her faith as an excuse to not enjoy the paradise she unexpectedly found herself in. Her I was disappointed in. Wanda, along with her daughter-in-law Jean, have created engaging characters while weaving a story that is different than their norm. And I loved it! I'm waiting impatiently for the next book to release in just a couple of weeks. This book though? Came out nearly two years ago. That's a long time to wait impatiently for a sequel.
Originally posted at https://fizzypopcollection.com/the-ha....
Wanda consistently gives me vibrant, simple characters. She gives me amazing stories that soothe my heart. I mean this in the most glowing way possible. Simple characters with little to no drama just living their life and figuring out the next best thing for them. Wanda lets me slow down and just enjoy life. I love that about her books. With 'The Hawaiian Quilt' Wanda stepped out a bit, all in good ways. First, this story reads like her older books, greater depth of content. We tag along as Mandy and Ellen find themselves in a situation that you don't plan for. We watch as they find a way to make it work for them and their new friends. I mean I spent the last half of the book talking myself out of flipping to the end to see what Mandy chose. For me those decisions were pretty important. It was a need to know situation. Secondly, can we just say Hawaii. I mean you don't really think about the Amish in Hawaii. I didn't even know your could take a cruise from the mainland to Hawaii.
To be honest, the only thing that I didn't love in this book was Ellen. Unexpectedly set in a tropical paradise with amazing new friends and she can't embrace any part of it. I feel like Ellen threw away an amazing opportunity to explore her world in a way she may never have again. No one asked her to forget her faith or even her devotion but I feel like she used her legalistic view of her faith as an excuse to not enjoy the paradise she unexpectedly found herself in. Her I was disappointed in. Wanda, along with her daughter-in-law Jean, have created engaging characters while weaving a story that is different than their norm. And I loved it! I'm waiting impatiently for the next book to release in just a couple of weeks. This book though? Came out nearly two years ago. That's a long time to wait impatiently for a sequel.
Originally posted at https://fizzypopcollection.com/the-ha....
November 16, 2017
I have been a fan of Wanda Brunstetter's for many years, which is why this is hard. But, I feel like her writing has gone downhill recently. I used to find her stories really engaging, and now it takes a while for me to become invested in a story and its characters.
That was definitely the case with this book. I felt like too much 'telling' was done, when if she'd worded a sentence slightly differently, it wouldn't have come across as 'stilted'. To be honest, it was rather distracting.
Add to that, the fact that there were dilemmas that Mandy and her friends were faced with that should have been handled differently: talking to proper authorities in a few instances would have made things quite different. Of course, if the girls had done *that*, there would not have been a story line!
I found that I was frustrated with characters more than I was rooting for them to succeed. That said, the descriptions of Hawaii and the 'Aloha Spirit' were lovely and spot-on for what I understand of that place and mindset.
2.75 stars
That was definitely the case with this book. I felt like too much 'telling' was done, when if she'd worded a sentence slightly differently, it wouldn't have come across as 'stilted'. To be honest, it was rather distracting.
Add to that, the fact that there were dilemmas that Mandy and her friends were faced with that should have been handled differently: talking to proper authorities in a few instances would have made things quite different. Of course, if the girls had done *that*, there would not have been a story line!
I found that I was frustrated with characters more than I was rooting for them to succeed. That said, the descriptions of Hawaii and the 'Aloha Spirit' were lovely and spot-on for what I understand of that place and mindset.
2.75 stars
July 13, 2016
When I read this book's description I thought it sounded really interesting. Four Amish girls going far from home and two getting separated and stranded in Hawaii. I wondered how they would get back home and couldn't wait to read the book and find out.
The first half of this book was a really quick read for me as I found it to be interesting to read about the girls' trip across the country and then across the ocean to the islands of Hawaii. I liked all four girls and found each of them had their own personalities and it was fun to discover each. I found the descriptions of their sight-seeing to be well-written and it was easy to picture things and places as I was reading about them.
The second half of the book wasn't as enjoyable for me. After the two become separated I found I didn't really care for Mandy all that much and found the changes in her to be a bit off-putting. I found myself liking Ellen more and more because she seemed authentic and true to her roots.
The story goes back and forth between the girls' destination and Indiana, where their families are. I liked this aspect as I found the parts that took place in Indiana really kept the Amish feel to the story. If not for this it would have been easy to forget this story was about Amish girls.
I also thought the writing in this book wasn't as smooth as in other books by Wanda E. Brunstetter. There were a few times I found dialogue to be a bit awkward. I also found the story was maybe geared towards the young adult audience as most of the characters are in their early 20's.
All in all, this was a book that I enjoyed reading and think fans of the genre will enjoy the story. It is a different story for the Amish fiction fan and would be a good introduction for younger readers to the genre.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
The first half of this book was a really quick read for me as I found it to be interesting to read about the girls' trip across the country and then across the ocean to the islands of Hawaii. I liked all four girls and found each of them had their own personalities and it was fun to discover each. I found the descriptions of their sight-seeing to be well-written and it was easy to picture things and places as I was reading about them.
The second half of the book wasn't as enjoyable for me. After the two become separated I found I didn't really care for Mandy all that much and found the changes in her to be a bit off-putting. I found myself liking Ellen more and more because she seemed authentic and true to her roots.
The story goes back and forth between the girls' destination and Indiana, where their families are. I liked this aspect as I found the parts that took place in Indiana really kept the Amish feel to the story. If not for this it would have been easy to forget this story was about Amish girls.
I also thought the writing in this book wasn't as smooth as in other books by Wanda E. Brunstetter. There were a few times I found dialogue to be a bit awkward. I also found the story was maybe geared towards the young adult audience as most of the characters are in their early 20's.
All in all, this was a book that I enjoyed reading and think fans of the genre will enjoy the story. It is a different story for the Amish fiction fan and would be a good introduction for younger readers to the genre.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
May 28, 2023
I enjoyed this story of several friends visiting Hawaii together.
They enjoy the lovely scenery and they make new friends.
I liked the connection of the quilt in the story.
This book features friendship, faith and love.
They enjoy the lovely scenery and they make new friends.
I liked the connection of the quilt in the story.
This book features friendship, faith and love.
July 22, 2023
It was a pleasant read but I never really connected with the characters. I
August 16, 2016
*I received this book free from the Publishers for my honest review*
When I read the description for The Hawaiian Quilt, I was intrigued and excited to read about the 4 Amish friends Journey. Four Amish Girls took a trip of a life time to visit Hawaii before joining the Amish Church. During one of their port visit 2 of the girls missed the ship. The author took great passion in describing the cruise and each island port the girls visited.
I enjoyed reading about the activities and the details of the landscape. The book picks up fast and kept me entertained while picturing each place.
When Mandy and Ellen missed the ships departure time you were really able to learn about their separate personalities. Mandy was a care free, kind hearted person who was still trying to find her way. Being in Hawaii caused her to lose some of her Amish ways and be more carefree then her friend Ellen. It was interested that even when the girls were stranded in Hawaii the Author still wrote from the view points of their families back home waiting.
Over all I think this was a good book However, I felt that it could have been shorter or had more interested details to change up their day to day activities after being on the Island for so long. The concept of this story was well thought out but was different from other books by Wanda E. Brunstetter.
I enjoyed the ending and was happy to see that Mandy ended up happy and followed her heart to love.
When I read the description for The Hawaiian Quilt, I was intrigued and excited to read about the 4 Amish friends Journey. Four Amish Girls took a trip of a life time to visit Hawaii before joining the Amish Church. During one of their port visit 2 of the girls missed the ship. The author took great passion in describing the cruise and each island port the girls visited.
I enjoyed reading about the activities and the details of the landscape. The book picks up fast and kept me entertained while picturing each place.
When Mandy and Ellen missed the ships departure time you were really able to learn about their separate personalities. Mandy was a care free, kind hearted person who was still trying to find her way. Being in Hawaii caused her to lose some of her Amish ways and be more carefree then her friend Ellen. It was interested that even when the girls were stranded in Hawaii the Author still wrote from the view points of their families back home waiting.
Over all I think this was a good book However, I felt that it could have been shorter or had more interested details to change up their day to day activities after being on the Island for so long. The concept of this story was well thought out but was different from other books by Wanda E. Brunstetter.
I enjoyed the ending and was happy to see that Mandy ended up happy and followed her heart to love.
August 27, 2022
Good book with an unusual setting for an Amish book. Mandy has been fascinated with Hawaii since her cousin visited, so she talks her three best friends, Ellen, Sadie, and Barbara, into taking a cruise to the Islands with her. All four young women are still in their "running around" years before joining the church, so their families and church leaders permit the trip. Of the four, only Mandy has a boyfriend, Gideon. He wants to marry Mandy and isn't very happy about her trip.
We get to know the girls a little bit on the days it takes the ship to get from California to Hawaii. All are excited about visiting Hawaii as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I enjoyed seeing them experience life on the cruise ship, from Ellen's unfortunate seasickness to their enjoyment of the variety of foods. But as the days went on, I felt that Mandy was questioning her commitment to the Amish faith. Unlike her three friends, she is in no hurry to take the final step to join the church.
Once they reached the islands, the girls paired up, each touring something different and telling the others about their experiences. I thought this was a terrific way to maximize their time and get the most out of their trip. I enjoyed the descriptions of their tours of Oahu. Ellen and Barbara went to the Polynesian Cultural Center, looking forward to learning about the history and culture. Meanwhile, Mandy and Sadie visit the Arizona Memorial, as both are interested in WW2 history. I could feel their sadness as they contemplated the events of that day. It made a deep impression on both. Their next stop was Kauai, where Barbara and Sadie paired up to tour Waimea Canyon, and Mandy and Ellen decided to strike out on their own. Unfortunately, Mandy lost her phone and, taking time to look for it, she and Ellen missed the ship's departure. Their dismay and worry were evident. Fortunately, they were rescued by a couple who took them to a local B&B.
Here is where suspension of disbelief comes into play. Mandy and Ellen immediately latch on to the idea that they are stranded and must wait for the next cruise ship to resume their trip. In reality, there are multiple flights from Kauai to the Big Island each day. If they don't want to fly, there is also a ferry between the islands. They could have taken either option and met up with their ship the next day. But that would have made for a very short book! Instead, they stay with Luana and Makaio at the B&B while they wait for a ship. I liked how easily Mandy and Ellen connected with their hosts. With no luggage, Mandy and Ellen end up purchasing some non-Amish clothing. While Ellen is uncomfortable in the strange clothing, Mandy discovers she likes the freedom of the muumuu she bought. She also meets Ken, a young man she had encountered the previous day, who works on his parents' chicken farm, surfs, and plays ukulele at their church.
When Makaio is badly injured, Mandy and Ellen offer to extend their stay and help Luana run the B&B. I loved their willingness to help in a crisis. During their extended stay, Mandy and Ellen have the opportunity to see more of the island. Here we begin to see some differences crop up between Mandy and Ellen. Ellen is always conscious of the requirements of their faith. She frequently speaks of home and how she misses it. Mandy is fascinated by everything she experiences, from the lush gardens and plant life to the vastly different lifestyle. She spends more and more time with Ken, who shows her around the island, teaches her to swim, and is quite charming. Mandy begins questioning her feelings for Gideon as her feelings for Ken grow but has no idea if Ken feels the same way about her. Ellen sees all this happening and worries about her friend's commitment. Her interference causes Mandy to question herself right before they return to Indiana.
Upon their return, Mandy tries to settle back into her old life, but she's been changed by her experiences in Hawaii. The more she tries, the more she realizes that she no longer fits in her community. I felt her heartache as she remembered her time in Hawaii and yearned to return. When a stunning discovery sends her back to Hawaii, she finds she has unexpected options for her future. I loved how it worked out and enjoyed seeing Mandy's happiness.
The book's point of view flipped back and forth between the girls and the people back in Indiana. Much of the Indiana viewpoint is that of Gideon. He misses Mandy and often thinks of their plans to join the church and get married. I didn't care for the way he was against her trip as it felt a little controlling to me. I felt terrible for him when he would call the B&B and Mandy would be away, often with Ken or just too busy to talk. Barbara and Sadie returned from the trip without Ellen and Mandy and picked up their regular lives. But Barbara's sympathy for Gideon becomes more, and Sadie worries about the wisdom of that friendship. What will happen when Mandy finally comes home?
The title of the book, The Hawaiian Quilt, comes from Luana's story about a quilt she owned. Her mother had made a beautiful quilt for Luana and Makaio when they first married. But the quilt was lost when they moved from the Big Island to Kauai to open the B&B. The quilt's story has an inspiring ending, and I love how it fits into the book.
#netgalley
We get to know the girls a little bit on the days it takes the ship to get from California to Hawaii. All are excited about visiting Hawaii as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I enjoyed seeing them experience life on the cruise ship, from Ellen's unfortunate seasickness to their enjoyment of the variety of foods. But as the days went on, I felt that Mandy was questioning her commitment to the Amish faith. Unlike her three friends, she is in no hurry to take the final step to join the church.
Once they reached the islands, the girls paired up, each touring something different and telling the others about their experiences. I thought this was a terrific way to maximize their time and get the most out of their trip. I enjoyed the descriptions of their tours of Oahu. Ellen and Barbara went to the Polynesian Cultural Center, looking forward to learning about the history and culture. Meanwhile, Mandy and Sadie visit the Arizona Memorial, as both are interested in WW2 history. I could feel their sadness as they contemplated the events of that day. It made a deep impression on both. Their next stop was Kauai, where Barbara and Sadie paired up to tour Waimea Canyon, and Mandy and Ellen decided to strike out on their own. Unfortunately, Mandy lost her phone and, taking time to look for it, she and Ellen missed the ship's departure. Their dismay and worry were evident. Fortunately, they were rescued by a couple who took them to a local B&B.
Here is where suspension of disbelief comes into play. Mandy and Ellen immediately latch on to the idea that they are stranded and must wait for the next cruise ship to resume their trip. In reality, there are multiple flights from Kauai to the Big Island each day. If they don't want to fly, there is also a ferry between the islands. They could have taken either option and met up with their ship the next day. But that would have made for a very short book! Instead, they stay with Luana and Makaio at the B&B while they wait for a ship. I liked how easily Mandy and Ellen connected with their hosts. With no luggage, Mandy and Ellen end up purchasing some non-Amish clothing. While Ellen is uncomfortable in the strange clothing, Mandy discovers she likes the freedom of the muumuu she bought. She also meets Ken, a young man she had encountered the previous day, who works on his parents' chicken farm, surfs, and plays ukulele at their church.
When Makaio is badly injured, Mandy and Ellen offer to extend their stay and help Luana run the B&B. I loved their willingness to help in a crisis. During their extended stay, Mandy and Ellen have the opportunity to see more of the island. Here we begin to see some differences crop up between Mandy and Ellen. Ellen is always conscious of the requirements of their faith. She frequently speaks of home and how she misses it. Mandy is fascinated by everything she experiences, from the lush gardens and plant life to the vastly different lifestyle. She spends more and more time with Ken, who shows her around the island, teaches her to swim, and is quite charming. Mandy begins questioning her feelings for Gideon as her feelings for Ken grow but has no idea if Ken feels the same way about her. Ellen sees all this happening and worries about her friend's commitment. Her interference causes Mandy to question herself right before they return to Indiana.
Upon their return, Mandy tries to settle back into her old life, but she's been changed by her experiences in Hawaii. The more she tries, the more she realizes that she no longer fits in her community. I felt her heartache as she remembered her time in Hawaii and yearned to return. When a stunning discovery sends her back to Hawaii, she finds she has unexpected options for her future. I loved how it worked out and enjoyed seeing Mandy's happiness.
The book's point of view flipped back and forth between the girls and the people back in Indiana. Much of the Indiana viewpoint is that of Gideon. He misses Mandy and often thinks of their plans to join the church and get married. I didn't care for the way he was against her trip as it felt a little controlling to me. I felt terrible for him when he would call the B&B and Mandy would be away, often with Ken or just too busy to talk. Barbara and Sadie returned from the trip without Ellen and Mandy and picked up their regular lives. But Barbara's sympathy for Gideon becomes more, and Sadie worries about the wisdom of that friendship. What will happen when Mandy finally comes home?
The title of the book, The Hawaiian Quilt, comes from Luana's story about a quilt she owned. Her mother had made a beautiful quilt for Luana and Makaio when they first married. But the quilt was lost when they moved from the Big Island to Kauai to open the B&B. The quilt's story has an inspiring ending, and I love how it fits into the book.
#netgalley
May 5, 2019
I've read this book before but forgot that I had read it :) I really enjoy the different location for the story. It was a fun story to read!
September 2, 2016
A very different type of Amish story, we are going to Hawaii, and we are using cameras and cell phones, and doing tourist things, we are also on a cruise ship.
Four dear friends decide to take a trip of a lifetime, and decide to take a cruise to Hawaii and Mexico, this is happening before they join the Amish church. Now you can picture these sheltered young women being on this exciting journey, how different for them. Mandy, Ellen, Barbara and Sadie decide early on their trip to each take separate side trips and then share their experiences with each other so that they are able to see more.
Well you can guess what happens and yes, Mandy and Ellen are late getting back to the ship while in Kawai and when they get to the dock the ship is gone. Now what? This part of the story will change lives forever.
These girls sure had God’s hand on them, you can imagine all kind of bad things happening, but they end up staying with Christians and this is where the lost quilt comes into the story.
I enjoyed this quick read, questioned some of Mandy’s actions, but then remembering they are in their run around time, but I could see that Ellen was more set in her faith. The ending to me left a lot to be desired, it seemed a bit rushed, but then I didn’t write the book, and as I said this is a very different Amish story.
I received this book through Net Galley and Barbour Press, and was not required to give a positive review.
Four dear friends decide to take a trip of a lifetime, and decide to take a cruise to Hawaii and Mexico, this is happening before they join the Amish church. Now you can picture these sheltered young women being on this exciting journey, how different for them. Mandy, Ellen, Barbara and Sadie decide early on their trip to each take separate side trips and then share their experiences with each other so that they are able to see more.
Well you can guess what happens and yes, Mandy and Ellen are late getting back to the ship while in Kawai and when they get to the dock the ship is gone. Now what? This part of the story will change lives forever.
These girls sure had God’s hand on them, you can imagine all kind of bad things happening, but they end up staying with Christians and this is where the lost quilt comes into the story.
I enjoyed this quick read, questioned some of Mandy’s actions, but then remembering they are in their run around time, but I could see that Ellen was more set in her faith. The ending to me left a lot to be desired, it seemed a bit rushed, but then I didn’t write the book, and as I said this is a very different Amish story.
I received this book through Net Galley and Barbour Press, and was not required to give a positive review.
September 7, 2016
The Hawaiian Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter and Jean Brunstetter is all about personal growth, and the mixing of cultures in the beautiful setting of Hawaii. Once you start reading it you will not want to put it down.
I love the author's ability to weave a story that is so realistic I found myself living the story. It was so easy to get into the tale and identify with the storyline. Wanda E. Brunstetter's down to earth style of writing made the story come alive to this reader. There are no limits to God's plan for your future and this story re-enforces that truth to the reader.
Wanda E. Brunstetter has a knack of developing characters that are realistic and easy to identify with. Through their personal growth and adventure they force the reader to look inward and grow. I found it very easy to identify with the characters and follow along their individual storylines.
I really liked The Hawaiian Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter and Jean Brunstetter and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
(Book was read & reviewed by Larry and Sara Gray)
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
I love the author's ability to weave a story that is so realistic I found myself living the story. It was so easy to get into the tale and identify with the storyline. Wanda E. Brunstetter's down to earth style of writing made the story come alive to this reader. There are no limits to God's plan for your future and this story re-enforces that truth to the reader.
Wanda E. Brunstetter has a knack of developing characters that are realistic and easy to identify with. Through their personal growth and adventure they force the reader to look inward and grow. I found it very easy to identify with the characters and follow along their individual storylines.
I really liked The Hawaiian Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter and Jean Brunstetter and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
(Book was read & reviewed by Larry and Sara Gray)
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
September 4, 2016
The Hawaiian Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter & Jean Brunstetter is a refreshing new twist on Amish fiction. This is not your typical Amish story. There is such faith, hope, dreams, heartbreak and determination throughout this wonderful story. This one will keep you turning pages right up to the very end so you can see how it ends. Characters that you will surely fall in love with. Be sure to order your copy of The Hawaiian Quilt today by Wanda E. Brunstetter & Jean Brunstetter. 5 stars! I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
February 24, 2019
Full disclosure: I read this purely to be amused by the strange combination of Amish country and Hawaii, since I now live in the former and grew up in the latter. And it IS amusing, if you enjoy reading books that appear to have been written by a bot that was fed info from other Amish romances plus a Hawaii guidebook. Which I did, very much. I laughed out loud several times, thus the two stars. It is delightfully awkward and ridiculous.
July 31, 2018
This was such a fun story. I enjoyed reading about Hawaii and the quilts. I also liked the romance and the way it built up slowly. I was curious to see if Mandy chose Gideon or Ken, Indianna or Hawaii. I like the choices she made.
June 7, 2018
I don’t read too many Amish books because they are usually very predictable! When I saw the 2nd book come out in this series it intrigued me because it had the word Hawaiian in its name. Since the eruption of Mt. Kilauea on The island of Kauai is so prevalent in the news right now I decided to pick up The Hawaiian Discovery and read it, BUT several of the reviews noted that this story would be a better read if The Hawaiian Quilt was read first.
I am so glad I decided to read a copy of this book as I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pages took me back to 1977 when I visited the island of Oahu for my Senior trip from H.S. and the memories I have of The Polynesian Cultural Center, Luau’s & the pristine blue water of the ocean. When the girls visit the island of Kauai they even go on a tour of Mt. Kilauea, and is interesting to hear the way it is described: it is almost like you feel you are standing right beside it.
There is even a mention of Ensenada, Mexico in the book & I have fond memories of the time when my sister and I were there.
I loved the story interwoven throughout the pages of this book, but without giving away any spoilers I just found that there were way too many instances where almost a miracle would have had to happen to make everything fall together the way it did. One or two things might have worked, but not all of them so therefore I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5.
I am so glad I decided to read a copy of this book as I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pages took me back to 1977 when I visited the island of Oahu for my Senior trip from H.S. and the memories I have of The Polynesian Cultural Center, Luau’s & the pristine blue water of the ocean. When the girls visit the island of Kauai they even go on a tour of Mt. Kilauea, and is interesting to hear the way it is described: it is almost like you feel you are standing right beside it.
There is even a mention of Ensenada, Mexico in the book & I have fond memories of the time when my sister and I were there.
I loved the story interwoven throughout the pages of this book, but without giving away any spoilers I just found that there were way too many instances where almost a miracle would have had to happen to make everything fall together the way it did. One or two things might have worked, but not all of them so therefore I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5.
January 3, 2023
This was so enjoyable! Mandy Frey has a dream of seeing Hawaii before she ddecides to join her family's Amish church. When she and three of her friends go to Hawaii, Mandy and her best friens, Ellen, get left behind when the cruise ship pulls away without them on it.
I knew by the way Mandy wasn't bothered about being stranded that she was leaning towards not joining the church. Also, when she meets Ken, i knew that those two would end up together.
I was glad to see that Gideon was able to move on from Mandy and find a new future with someone else.
I can't wait to see what the 2nd book of this duology has in store!
Also, Happy New Year everyone!
I knew by the way Mandy wasn't bothered about being stranded that she was leaning towards not joining the church. Also, when she meets Ken, i knew that those two would end up together.
I was glad to see that Gideon was able to move on from Mandy and find a new future with someone else.
I can't wait to see what the 2nd book of this duology has in store!
Also, Happy New Year everyone!
March 17, 2023
Another good Amish read. Mandy went with three other girls on a trip to Hawaii and due to an unforeseen problem had to remain there for several months. She met Ken and struggled with her feelings for him since she had a boyfriend back in Indiana. She also struggles with the decision whether or not to join the Amish Church. She makes her decision at the end.
March 16, 2019
I really loved this book! So much that I read it in one night. I loved Mandy's character and how when she saw Hawaii, she felt like she had come home. It was a beautiful story and I was so happy that she found the right man to marry in the end.
March 15, 2024
A wonderful story of making a choice of living the life you have always lived or living the life God is leading you toward.
June 27, 2024
Sweet but extremely predictable. I got a little tired of reading the same tumultuous inner dialogue of the characters. It was very repetitive.
June 18, 2025
Not my favorite type of book but easy to read. A comfortable fluffy romance with a predictable ending.
June 22, 2025
This is a cute book. The dialogue felt like the girls were 87 year olds, but maybe that’s how Amish girls talk. I started this one night and finished the next afternoon, so it’s a quick read. I really like Wanda Brunstetter and will read more of her work in future!
April 28, 2017
Wow, this book was amazing! It has been a while since I read a book in 1 day. :)
Full review coming soon.
Full review coming soon.
October 8, 2018
Loved this book ESPECIALLY the mention of history on Hawaiian Quilts!! Reading this made me wish my one Grandma was still here since she loved to Quilt herself.
I'm glad the book ended on a good note!!
I'm glad the book ended on a good note!!
February 23, 2017
As with all of Wanda's books this wasn't a disappointment, as a matter of fact I believe it was one of her best. I so enjoyed the girls going on a Hawaiian vacation, even though two of the girls had an extended stay on one of the islands. After being there for a few months Mandy found herself falling for Ken, and as the story goes all's well that ends well, thanks to a lost and found quilt.
August 25, 2022
Four friends with cameras and cell phones embarking on a cruise to Hawaii. Nothing unusual until you realize that the four friends are Amish and they are making this trip before they officially join the Amish church. 'The Hawaiian Quilt' offers a new perception of the Amish lifestyle as Mandy, Barbara, Ellen and Sadie leave their Indiana homes to travel to the Hawaiian islands for a four and one half day sightseeing trip. When Mandy and Ellen miss their return ship they are stranded and you can only imagine what could happen to these young women. Luckily, they are befriended by a Hawaiian couple and invited to stay in their home until they can return to their own homes. This unexpected stay allows Mandy and Ellen to witness a happily married non- Amish couple and this causes Mandy to question not only her decision to join the church but also her expected marriage to her Amish boyfriend Gideon. Adding to her confusion is her new friendship with a young Christian man who lives there in Hawaii and we readers witness her pain as she reluctantly returns to Indiana. It is the accidental discovery of a Hawaiian quilt that matches the description of the wedding quilt lost by her Hawaiian friends that triggers a life altering decision for Mandy.
This is not a typical Amish story from beloved author Wanda Brunstetter and her daughter- in-law Jean Brunstetter but it is an enjoyable read that I think you will enjoy.
I was given a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and the author in exchange for my review.
This is not a typical Amish story from beloved author Wanda Brunstetter and her daughter- in-law Jean Brunstetter but it is an enjoyable read that I think you will enjoy.
I was given a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and the author in exchange for my review.
August 28, 2016
I just lived this book! From the first paragraph until the last paragraph, I enjoyed it all!
Four Amish girlfriends decide to take a vacation to Hawaii before they join the Church.
They go on a cruise ship.
They see and enjoy many sights on the Islands. One thing that they do is to split up into pairs so that they will be able to enjoy more things.
On one day, two of the girls (Mandy and Ellen) go to one place. While, Barbara and Sadie go to another. Mandy had a cell phone with her. She realizes that she lost her phone. So Mandy and Ellen go looking for it. Losing track of time, when they go to the place where they are to board the ship, the ship has already left. Wow! They missed the boat! Now what would they do??
They meet another couple who takes them to a nice little B & B. And...another adventure begins! You will enjoy the owners of the B & B.
You will want to see if Mandy and Ellen can get home.
There is a missing quilt that you will learn about. As I read this book, I wondered what the quilt would come into play. Boy! Was I surprised!
I highly recommend that you read this book!! You will not be disappointed!!
Four Amish girlfriends decide to take a vacation to Hawaii before they join the Church.
They go on a cruise ship.
They see and enjoy many sights on the Islands. One thing that they do is to split up into pairs so that they will be able to enjoy more things.
On one day, two of the girls (Mandy and Ellen) go to one place. While, Barbara and Sadie go to another. Mandy had a cell phone with her. She realizes that she lost her phone. So Mandy and Ellen go looking for it. Losing track of time, when they go to the place where they are to board the ship, the ship has already left. Wow! They missed the boat! Now what would they do??
They meet another couple who takes them to a nice little B & B. And...another adventure begins! You will enjoy the owners of the B & B.
You will want to see if Mandy and Ellen can get home.
There is a missing quilt that you will learn about. As I read this book, I wondered what the quilt would come into play. Boy! Was I surprised!
I highly recommend that you read this book!! You will not be disappointed!!
July 17, 2016
What initially piqued my curiosity and made me want to read this book is the fact that this wasn’t the usual winter excursion to Pinecraft, Florida! Not that I don’t love that particular setting because I do.
I liked the characters and of course I liked the excitement the girls felt as they set out on a once in a life time opportunity to experience their Hawaiian cruise.
I enjoyed the descriptive scenes of the girls touring beautiful and unique sites when they disembarked their ship.
All goes well until Mandy and Ellen don't return to the ship in time and get separated from their friends.
What happens to the two young and inexperienced girls fills the rest of the story. Their families and friends in Indiana want them to come home. People and circumstances change and sometimes a change is needed.
The Hawaiian Quilt is suitable for all ages of both Amish and Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and have given my honest opinion.
I liked the characters and of course I liked the excitement the girls felt as they set out on a once in a life time opportunity to experience their Hawaiian cruise.
I enjoyed the descriptive scenes of the girls touring beautiful and unique sites when they disembarked their ship.
All goes well until Mandy and Ellen don't return to the ship in time and get separated from their friends.
What happens to the two young and inexperienced girls fills the rest of the story. Their families and friends in Indiana want them to come home. People and circumstances change and sometimes a change is needed.
The Hawaiian Quilt is suitable for all ages of both Amish and Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and have given my honest opinion.
October 22, 2016
Mandy Frey and 3 Amish girlfriends take a cruise to the Hawaiian Islands while still in their traditional running around years. Their plan was to return and join the Amish church, with Mandy possibly marrying her boyfriend, Gideon. Armed with nontraditional items such as cell phones and cameras the girls enjoy Hawaii until Mandy and her travel partner miss their cruise ship, and become stranded on the island of Kauai.
I found this to be a very different style from Ms. Brunstetter's previous books. The characters were somewhat shallow and the book moved somewhat slowly for me until the last few chapters. I had expected the Hawaiian quilt to be a strong feature in this story, but it was a minor detail compared to the rest of the story line. I enjoyed the book except for the minor details. Wanda Brunstetter still remains a favorite Amish storyteller.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own No monetary compensation was received for this review.
I found this to be a very different style from Ms. Brunstetter's previous books. The characters were somewhat shallow and the book moved somewhat slowly for me until the last few chapters. I had expected the Hawaiian quilt to be a strong feature in this story, but it was a minor detail compared to the rest of the story line. I enjoyed the book except for the minor details. Wanda Brunstetter still remains a favorite Amish storyteller.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own No monetary compensation was received for this review.
September 15, 2016
I loved it!! It is different than your typical Amish novels. I think this why I enjoyed it so much! In my opinion I thought it was geared more towards young adults in stead of adults. Even so, it was delightful because I very much enjoyed going to Hawaii.
Wanda is a fantastic writer and so this is why I wanted to read it. I love all of her books!!
I liked the fact that all four friends could go on a boat and I loved the buddy system except when Mandy and Ellen got left behind!!
I liked that there are Christians everywhere and there are good people no matter where you go!
I think this what the author intended to show us plus the friendships of 4 young women that will last a lifetime!!
Oh and did I say that the cover of this book is absolutely beautiful!! Makes me feel like I'm there!!
Wanda is a fantastic writer and so this is why I wanted to read it. I love all of her books!!
I liked the fact that all four friends could go on a boat and I loved the buddy system except when Mandy and Ellen got left behind!!
I liked that there are Christians everywhere and there are good people no matter where you go!
I think this what the author intended to show us plus the friendships of 4 young women that will last a lifetime!!
Oh and did I say that the cover of this book is absolutely beautiful!! Makes me feel like I'm there!!
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