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Paradise #1
Chasing Paradise
Forbidden Love
Paul Fischer's a plain man with big dreams and an even bigger problem—gaining his uncle's approval. He's just settled on how to accomplish that while maintaining loyalty to his family and heritage, when a beautiful Englischer shows up threatening to defeat all his efforts.
A romantic relationship with Rachel is forbidden and he soon discovers it will take more than simply guarding his heart. The more time he spends with her, the more he wants to overcome every obstacle that's keeping them apart.
Rachel Adam's home was once filled with happiness. It now occupies only painful memories. Even still, she never dreamed she'd have to leave Florida. She's determined to return, until an unlikely attraction brightens her outlook. Drawn to Paul like a butterfly to a flower, she begins to imagine a future in Paradise. A future very different from her life-long plans. A future only Paul has the power to rewrite ... unless a devious plot destroys it first.
Chasing Paradise is a story rich in emotion that beautifully portrays love and loss and confronts the difficult question—How far would you go to protect the one you love?
Paul Fischer's a plain man with big dreams and an even bigger problem—gaining his uncle's approval. He's just settled on how to accomplish that while maintaining loyalty to his family and heritage, when a beautiful Englischer shows up threatening to defeat all his efforts.
A romantic relationship with Rachel is forbidden and he soon discovers it will take more than simply guarding his heart. The more time he spends with her, the more he wants to overcome every obstacle that's keeping them apart.
Rachel Adam's home was once filled with happiness. It now occupies only painful memories. Even still, she never dreamed she'd have to leave Florida. She's determined to return, until an unlikely attraction brightens her outlook. Drawn to Paul like a butterfly to a flower, she begins to imagine a future in Paradise. A future very different from her life-long plans. A future only Paul has the power to rewrite ... unless a devious plot destroys it first.
Chasing Paradise is a story rich in emotion that beautifully portrays love and loss and confronts the difficult question—How far would you go to protect the one you love?
Kindle Edition
First published January 27, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 30, 2017
This was not my cup of tea. Maybe for a teenager, or VERY young adult, but I found it just this side of sophomoric.
I didn't read enough reviews with actual synopses so I wasn't aware it had Amish characters.
Synopsis:
Seventeen year old Rachel and her mother move away from Florida after her beloved daddy was killed in an auto accident. Too many memories. They move to an old farmhouse in Lancaster County. The handyman her mother hires is a young good looking Amish man, okay 18 year old, but we'll say man because he owns his own fix-it/house remodel business. He needed customers or he'd have to give up his livelihood and work on his uncle's farm.
Rachel gets a job at a coffee shop in town and sees him (Paul) at a table then again next day at her mom's house. Immediately sparks fly. There's talk of muscles, hair, imagining a touch, holding hands, kissing...on and on and on. They both want to be with each other, but his Amish faith will not allow it. So they skirt around their feelings for 2/3 of the book, wondering if the other is interested in someone else, if he really likes her, if she really has feelings for him, if they should be honest with each other...but no, they don't want to look pathetic...and on and on. The angst from each brushed touch, or hands around a waist to lift her out of a buggy, or need to comfort fears or sadness was palpable....and old, very quickly old, and for sooooo long.
I was tired of it in the first quarter of the book. But I plodded along.
Yeah, I don't recommend this to anyone who truly likes good books.
I didn't read enough reviews with actual synopses so I wasn't aware it had Amish characters.
Synopsis:
Seventeen year old Rachel and her mother move away from Florida after her beloved daddy was killed in an auto accident. Too many memories. They move to an old farmhouse in Lancaster County. The handyman her mother hires is a young good looking Amish man, okay 18 year old, but we'll say man because he owns his own fix-it/house remodel business. He needed customers or he'd have to give up his livelihood and work on his uncle's farm.
Rachel gets a job at a coffee shop in town and sees him (Paul) at a table then again next day at her mom's house. Immediately sparks fly. There's talk of muscles, hair, imagining a touch, holding hands, kissing...on and on and on. They both want to be with each other, but his Amish faith will not allow it. So they skirt around their feelings for 2/3 of the book, wondering if the other is interested in someone else, if he really likes her, if she really has feelings for him, if they should be honest with each other...but no, they don't want to look pathetic...and on and on. The angst from each brushed touch, or hands around a waist to lift her out of a buggy, or need to comfort fears or sadness was palpable....and old, very quickly old, and for sooooo long.
I was tired of it in the first quarter of the book. But I plodded along.
Yeah, I don't recommend this to anyone who truly likes good books.
August 20, 2020
Cindy Patterson’s tender novel about a love that blooms between a young English woman and an Amish man unfolds in a warmhearted and memorable story that will leave you feeling satisfied that all is as it should be for them.
Rachel and her mom move to Amish county to escape their grief. Paul goes to work for Rachel’s mom to help make some needed repairs to their new home and property.
Sensing a growing, and forbidden, relationship between himself and Rachel, Paul tries hard to back off before it’s too late. But the love between them can’t be denied.
And so we follow the slow, tender build of their love for each other and watch as they overcome the obstacles to their future together.
The author is respectful of the Amish faith, while showing that things have a way of working out in the path to true love. Her writing is rich in detail of the Amish countryside and people so that you feel as if you are living the story along with the characters, cheering them on till the end.
This was my first book from this author. I look forward to read the next one.
Rachel and her mom move to Amish county to escape their grief. Paul goes to work for Rachel’s mom to help make some needed repairs to their new home and property.
Sensing a growing, and forbidden, relationship between himself and Rachel, Paul tries hard to back off before it’s too late. But the love between them can’t be denied.
And so we follow the slow, tender build of their love for each other and watch as they overcome the obstacles to their future together.
The author is respectful of the Amish faith, while showing that things have a way of working out in the path to true love. Her writing is rich in detail of the Amish countryside and people so that you feel as if you are living the story along with the characters, cheering them on till the end.
This was my first book from this author. I look forward to read the next one.
September 11, 2017
After Rachel Adam’s dad passed away, her mom uproots her and they move to Paradise, Pennsylvania, Florida. Rachel isn’t too keen on the move, that is until she meets Paul, a good-looking, teen, one year older than her. Her mom employed him to renew an old house she bought. The chemistry surges between them but there is one big problem for them developing a relationship. Paul is Amish and his faith forbids him to be unequally yoked. First off, we need more men in this world with Paul’s veracity. I was right away caught up in this story due to Cindy’s smooth yet fast paced writing style. Her characters are relatable and their dialogue is up to date. All in all, she has weaved a captivating tale full of integrity, love and faith. I’m a sucker for romance and this one is superb. Be prepared for some tugging on your heart strings.
March 23, 2018
Page turner!
I read this book in one day! I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t wait to see what God had in store for the characters!
I read this book in one day! I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t wait to see what God had in store for the characters!
April 13, 2017
Another wonderful, romantic novel by Cindy Patterson. Chasing Paradise was a beautifully put- together love story portraying two young adults, who had to face the struggles that came with a strict religious background compared to a contemporary faith. This amazing story displays the compelling influence of love and the invincible power of prayer. I can't wait for what the author has next!
May 18, 2020
Very nice and good read! I enjoyed it!
August 30, 2017
I really enjoyed Chasing Paradise by Cindy Patterson. It was an easy, fast-paced story about a young couple ultimately daring to take a chance on love. I highly recommend it! I'm looking forward to other books by this author.
June 4, 2020
I absolutely love this book! This book got my attention and held it until the end. I didn't want to put the book down. Looking forward to the next one of the series. highly recommended!
January 31, 2017
Another great book by Cindy Patterson. I was hooked after the first few paragraphs. Such a sweet story of young love between two teens that seem unlikely to form a relationship. The author weaves a story that will have you cheering for this couple from the beginning all the way to the end of this book. I enjoyed the small details she included about the simple life of the Amish as well as their traditions. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys well written and very relatable fiction.
April 13, 2017
Finished this amazing book in 5 days flat. Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and I definitely thought that Cindy Patterson did an amazing job with this book!!
June 13, 2017
Seventeen-year-old Rachel Adams and her mother have moved from Florida to Paradise, Pennsylvania, leaving behind the happy life they had up until her father died. While her mom is determined to make the best of things, Rachel isn't so sure. That is, until handsome, eighteen-year-old Amish Paul Fischer is hired to help renovate the old country house Mrs. Adams has bought. There's an immediate attraction between the two, but it must be quelled, because a relationship between an Amish and an Englischer is strictly forbidden by Amish custom. Nonetheless, the affection is real, and Paul makes a huge sacrifice to keep from hurting the girl he loves. When he finally learns a long-suppressed secret, it could either mean the end of all his hopes or the beginning of a new life.
Romance fans will really enjoy this sweet and poignant story of young love with its twists and turns and deeply satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
Romance fans will really enjoy this sweet and poignant story of young love with its twists and turns and deeply satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
August 14, 2017
> Heartwarming, Delightful and Enjoyable!
>
> The author has created a loving story that touches your heart. I enjoyed the delightful characters as they faced the difficulties that prevented them from showing their love for each other. I liked the references to scripture. This heartwarming novel illustrated how the main characters used Jesus to solve their problems when they turned to him. I would highly recommend this novel!
>
> The author has created a loving story that touches your heart. I enjoyed the delightful characters as they faced the difficulties that prevented them from showing their love for each other. I liked the references to scripture. This heartwarming novel illustrated how the main characters used Jesus to solve their problems when they turned to him. I would highly recommend this novel!
March 9, 2017
First off, the cover is gorgeous and so perfect to the story! Well done there.
Rachel's mother, though strong and admirable, needs a fresh start. Rachel is wounded, too, but doesn't want to leave her childhood home and all her beautiful memories and friends. When she packs her bags and leaves without complaint--all for love of her mother--I instantly admired her. She's a highly likeable character, but Paul is even more so.
The ideal male character to me is bold, hardy, daring, uber-masculine, and a leader of men. Amish heroes don't typically make the cut, but Paul does. He's a skilled carpenter and builder, and he owns his own construction company. He bucks conventions, and even though he's a pacifist, he protects the girl he loves. I enjoyed every one of his scenes and thought Cindy did a fine job crafting him.
You'll enjoy him, I promise you!
The story too. Rachel's discovery and quick appreciation of the Amish way of life was a fun road to walk, and since we walk it with Paul, all the better!
I have no regrets on this purchase, and you won't either.
Rachel's mother, though strong and admirable, needs a fresh start. Rachel is wounded, too, but doesn't want to leave her childhood home and all her beautiful memories and friends. When she packs her bags and leaves without complaint--all for love of her mother--I instantly admired her. She's a highly likeable character, but Paul is even more so.
The ideal male character to me is bold, hardy, daring, uber-masculine, and a leader of men. Amish heroes don't typically make the cut, but Paul does. He's a skilled carpenter and builder, and he owns his own construction company. He bucks conventions, and even though he's a pacifist, he protects the girl he loves. I enjoyed every one of his scenes and thought Cindy did a fine job crafting him.
You'll enjoy him, I promise you!
The story too. Rachel's discovery and quick appreciation of the Amish way of life was a fun road to walk, and since we walk it with Paul, all the better!
I have no regrets on this purchase, and you won't either.
March 18, 2017
Chasing Paradise is such an amazing and touching romance. Cindy Patterson’s story telling draws me deep into her world and doesn’t release me until the last page. Romance is alive and well!
February 9, 2018
A wonderful sweet romance to tickle anyone's heart.
May 26, 2018
Great book
I enjoyed getting to know the characters in Chasing Paradise and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters in Chasing Paradise and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 29, 2019
Wow! What a beautiful story!
I LOVED THIS STORY FROM BEGINNING TO THE END. I LOVED HOW GOD BROUGHT PAUL AND RACHEL BACK TOGETHER! ONLY GOD COULD DO SOMETHING SO WONDERFUL.
I LOVED THIS STORY FROM BEGINNING TO THE END. I LOVED HOW GOD BROUGHT PAUL AND RACHEL BACK TOGETHER! ONLY GOD COULD DO SOMETHING SO WONDERFUL.
August 4, 2020
I don't read Fiction much but this was a really good read. I enjoyed it.
March 2, 2021
Surprisingly Wonderful
I'm surprised how much I enjoyed this story. Rachel and Paul are fiery and sweet. This was a really good read for sure.
I'm surprised how much I enjoyed this story. Rachel and Paul are fiery and sweet. This was a really good read for sure.
August 30, 2019
Having read a previous book by this author with which I was quite impressed, I was excited to see that this story took place in the same universe as the first. Knowing some of the characters from the start made me feel more invested in the reading experience, as I was eager to read more about them.
Unfortunately, this book felt a little forced. There are a lot of clichés, and it seems to be quintessential love story – attraction leading to love, struggles that are resolved through grand gestures, and eventually a happy ending. I feel like the book should have had more depth since there were many factors present which could have been further explored.
If you are looking for a quick feel-good story – especially if you are a younger teen – then this book is not a bad read. Personally I was simply left unfulfilled.
Unfortunately, this book felt a little forced. There are a lot of clichés, and it seems to be quintessential love story – attraction leading to love, struggles that are resolved through grand gestures, and eventually a happy ending. I feel like the book should have had more depth since there were many factors present which could have been further explored.
If you are looking for a quick feel-good story – especially if you are a younger teen – then this book is not a bad read. Personally I was simply left unfulfilled.
July 21, 2018
From Florida to Pennsylvania, Rachel would be a senior in high school.
Her mom gave her a book about the Amish to read, and wondered if they really lived like that. An old house that her mother was going to fix up,
once she found a handyman to help her. We have Paul working with the English with his construction business, a thorn to his uncle, not understanding. He is young, eighteen, and soon smitten with Rachel. Her thoughts are to return to Florida. could a young love, change that. Parts of this didn’t seem real, the Amish don’t welcome the English right away, nor with Paul, being Amish, that would of raised a lot of concern in the community. Over all an enjoyable story, full of emotions, and young love.
Her mom gave her a book about the Amish to read, and wondered if they really lived like that. An old house that her mother was going to fix up,
once she found a handyman to help her. We have Paul working with the English with his construction business, a thorn to his uncle, not understanding. He is young, eighteen, and soon smitten with Rachel. Her thoughts are to return to Florida. could a young love, change that. Parts of this didn’t seem real, the Amish don’t welcome the English right away, nor with Paul, being Amish, that would of raised a lot of concern in the community. Over all an enjoyable story, full of emotions, and young love.
February 19, 2021
I don't normally read Amish Romance. This one may have changed my mind. Excellent novel about the forbidden relationship between Paul and Rachel, I barely put it down long enough to walk my poor little dog. This novel was well written and kept me interestede from start to finish.
As someone who normally reads jun mystery novels, thank you to Cindy for this well written novel.
As someone who normally reads jun mystery novels, thank you to Cindy for this well written novel.
July 24, 2025
Starting over and finding love
A tragic accident leads to a family moving to start a new chapter. The move proves beneficial to both. Rachel makes friends and falls in love with a local guy. They have some misunderstanding however they eventually work their relationship out and make it to happily ever after.
A tragic accident leads to a family moving to start a new chapter. The move proves beneficial to both. Rachel makes friends and falls in love with a local guy. They have some misunderstanding however they eventually work their relationship out and make it to happily ever after.
July 15, 2017
3.5/5.0
"Chasing Paradise" is a clean, refreshing romance about forbidden love.
Read full review in the 2017 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.
"Chasing Paradise" is a clean, refreshing romance about forbidden love.
Read full review in the 2017 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 5, 2018
Perhaps this was a young adult book and I didn't realize it. Just seemed to spin wheels without making forward progress. Character development was great, but otherwise the story seemed too repetitive and predictable.
February 26, 2021
Cute Romance
This is out of my reading spectrum but I decided to give it a try. The romance is slower than I'm used to but it was still very rich with striking conflict and believable plot. It was a good read.
This is out of my reading spectrum but I decided to give it a try. The romance is slower than I'm used to but it was still very rich with striking conflict and believable plot. It was a good read.
June 28, 2025
Trusting In Forever
Seeking new surroundings and release from grief and guilt,.can one find a new beginning? At times it seems possible but at others just too heart breaking. Join these survivors on the rocky path to tomorrow. Full of love, pain, fear and devastation.
Seeking new surroundings and release from grief and guilt,.can one find a new beginning? At times it seems possible but at others just too heart breaking. Join these survivors on the rocky path to tomorrow. Full of love, pain, fear and devastation.
July 20, 2025
Did not finish
July 23, 2025
Best Ever!
I don’t know why every book I read seems to be the best since the last book I read. Thus was a great story. Great characters. Read it.
I don’t know why every book I read seems to be the best since the last book I read. Thus was a great story. Great characters. Read it.
July 22, 2025
Was an interesting read, real quick and enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews