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The Amish of Lawrence County #1
Secrets of Willow Springs 1
Secrets from the past come to light in this Amish Fiction Book. Her family’s hidden history could destroy her. Will forgiveness set their future free?Emma Byler can’t wait for her sixteenth birthday and to experience a taste of freedom. With her Amish Rumspringa relaxing some of her usual restrictions, she’s desperate to spend time with a special boy. But she fears tensions at home and her father’s increasingly short-temper could make him pull back the reins.
Sixteen years ago, Jacob Byler made a promise. But as his daughter’s celebration draws near, he dreads the emotional upheaval she’ll go through when she learns the truth. And all he can do is pray that God will grant him the courage he needs to come clean.
As Emma tries to deal with her father’s worsening behavior, she’s forced to keep her own confidences. And Jacob reaches the breaking point when his son befriends a youth who could topple the whole house of cards.
Will honesty shatter the close-knit family, or will their faith help them open their hearts?
Secrets of Willow Springs is the first book in the captivating Amish of Lawrence County family drama series. If you like detailed accounts of traditional life, complex relationships, and stunning twists, then you’ll love Tracy Fredrychowski’s enthralling tale.
Buy Secrets of Willow Springs to make peace with the past today!
Amazon
Amish & Mennonite Fiction
Amish Romance (Kindle Store)
Mennonite Christianity (Kindle Store)
Amish Christianity Amish Romance (Books)
Can secrets be revealed in this Amish fiction book by Amish Author, Tracy Fredrychowski?
Sixteen years ago, Jacob Byler made a promise. But as his daughter’s celebration draws near, he dreads the emotional upheaval she’ll go through when she learns the truth. And all he can do is pray that God will grant him the courage he needs to come clean.
As Emma tries to deal with her father’s worsening behavior, she’s forced to keep her own confidences. And Jacob reaches the breaking point when his son befriends a youth who could topple the whole house of cards.
Will honesty shatter the close-knit family, or will their faith help them open their hearts?
Secrets of Willow Springs is the first book in the captivating Amish of Lawrence County family drama series. If you like detailed accounts of traditional life, complex relationships, and stunning twists, then you’ll love Tracy Fredrychowski’s enthralling tale.
Buy Secrets of Willow Springs to make peace with the past today!
Amazon
Amish & Mennonite Fiction
Amish Romance (Kindle Store)
Mennonite Christianity (Kindle Store)
Amish Christianity Amish Romance (Books)
Can secrets be revealed in this Amish fiction book by Amish Author, Tracy Fredrychowski?
552 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2020
509 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Fredrychowski
38 books359 followersGo to https://dl.bookfunnel.com/v9wmnj7kve to subscribe to the newsletter and download The Amish Women of Lawrence County as a thank you gift.
I’m a country girl at heart, an author, a homesteader, and a lover of all things simple living. My passion lies in capturing the essence of the simpler side of life, much like the one I enjoyed growing up in rural Pennsylvania.
My life has always been intricately linked with Amish culture, and it’s only fitting that I have a deep, genuine love for their simplicity, sense of community, and God-centered way of living.
Growing up in Northwest Pennsylvania, I spent my childhood immersed in the heart of Amish Country. The rhythmic clip-clop of horse and buggies was my morning soundtrack as Amish men journeyed past my home to work. A pivotal moment in my young life was shaped by a tragic Amish murder, a story detailed in “Crimson Stain” by Jim Fisher. Jake, a key figure in that true story, was my uncle.
Now residing in South Carolina, my family and I frequently travel through the Amish regions of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin. These journeys are not just visits but research expeditions. I take pride in writing Amish fiction that authentically represents their culture, thanks to the invaluable insights from friends within these communities.
If the Amish lifestyle fascinates you, join me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and check back here often for new short stories and updates on upcoming book releases. Together, let’s explore the serene and captivating world of the Amish.
I’m a country girl at heart, an author, a homesteader, and a lover of all things simple living. My passion lies in capturing the essence of the simpler side of life, much like the one I enjoyed growing up in rural Pennsylvania.
My life has always been intricately linked with Amish culture, and it’s only fitting that I have a deep, genuine love for their simplicity, sense of community, and God-centered way of living.
Growing up in Northwest Pennsylvania, I spent my childhood immersed in the heart of Amish Country. The rhythmic clip-clop of horse and buggies was my morning soundtrack as Amish men journeyed past my home to work. A pivotal moment in my young life was shaped by a tragic Amish murder, a story detailed in “Crimson Stain” by Jim Fisher. Jake, a key figure in that true story, was my uncle.
Now residing in South Carolina, my family and I frequently travel through the Amish regions of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin. These journeys are not just visits but research expeditions. I take pride in writing Amish fiction that authentically represents their culture, thanks to the invaluable insights from friends within these communities.
If the Amish lifestyle fascinates you, join me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and check back here often for new short stories and updates on upcoming book releases. Together, let’s explore the serene and captivating world of the Amish.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 19, 2019
Secrets
Tracy Fredrychowski is a new author for me to read. Secrets of Willow Springs is a wonderful story. Emma and Daniel and Anna Mae teach readers that Faith in God is your most important character trait. No matter where you have been, where you go, what ever happens if you hold tightly to your Love and Trust in God, life is good. Their journey is really just beginning in this Book 1 and I am excited to read Book 2!
Tracy Fredrychowski is a new author for me to read. Secrets of Willow Springs is a wonderful story. Emma and Daniel and Anna Mae teach readers that Faith in God is your most important character trait. No matter where you have been, where you go, what ever happens if you hold tightly to your Love and Trust in God, life is good. Their journey is really just beginning in this Book 1 and I am excited to read Book 2!
June 10, 2023
I like this author
I got to know the characters and the story line easy to follow
Look forward to reading more of her work
I got to know the characters and the story line easy to follow
Look forward to reading more of her work
August 14, 2019
Secrets of Willow Springs by Tracy Fredrychowski was a sweeping captivating story with the hidden secrets. The characters are amiable facing some real life issues especially as the time approached for Emma Byler to be informed of her family’s secret. There were precious moments of compassion and times of intense pain and heartache. The story was filled with plenty of descriptive dialogue, action, secrets, romance, grief, and overcoming by God’s forgiveness, love and grace. The unexpected twists and turns of the past were brought to life to give insight to the great sacrifice some had endured.
This was the debut book for Fredrychowski; however, as an avid reader I was enthralled from the start of this story to the last page that was the prologue for book two in the series. Another bonus was the recipe for Melt-in-Your Mouth Amish Sugar Cookies. I look forward to reading many more inspirational Amish books by this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. I have shared my own personal thoughts.
This was the debut book for Fredrychowski; however, as an avid reader I was enthralled from the start of this story to the last page that was the prologue for book two in the series. Another bonus was the recipe for Melt-in-Your Mouth Amish Sugar Cookies. I look forward to reading many more inspirational Amish books by this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. I have shared my own personal thoughts.
May 15, 2019
This is the first book in the series, and I look forward to book 2. Congratulations on your debut book Tracy This was an excellent Book, from start to finish it held my attention and I looked forward to every page as if I was sitting right their in the heart of Amish country with good friend listening to them telling me their own story as it unfolded.
I won’t give any spoilers, however I will say if you want to read how faith, love and grace can heal a heart you won’t want to miss this book. Jacob,Emma, and Daniel’s story is one of secrets, pure love that goes beyond a mother’s deep pain, and of healing beyond what you thought you were capable.
This Author takes you on a natural look at own one can survive if you keep to your belief and love for what and who you Truly believe in. Don’t miss you chance in reading this excellent book.
I won’t give any spoilers, however I will say if you want to read how faith, love and grace can heal a heart you won’t want to miss this book. Jacob,Emma, and Daniel’s story is one of secrets, pure love that goes beyond a mother’s deep pain, and of healing beyond what you thought you were capable.
This Author takes you on a natural look at own one can survive if you keep to your belief and love for what and who you Truly believe in. Don’t miss you chance in reading this excellent book.
May 22, 2019
I loved this book!! Great story!!
June 12, 2019
This is a Great Book to read!! I love it ❤️. Can't wait to read next book. ❤️. I have never heard of this Author books. I happen to see in a group on Facebook. So glad I got it to read. I have other books to read, but I felt the need to read this one :).
August 5, 2019
Secrets of willow springs
I was. Surprised reading this book, I didn't realize the story until I had gotten close to the end. I did feel that Daniel and Emma were related, when Daniel made the trip to where they used to live. Great story, I definitely recommend it.
I was. Surprised reading this book, I didn't realize the story until I had gotten close to the end. I did feel that Daniel and Emma were related, when Daniel made the trip to where they used to live. Great story, I definitely recommend it.
June 23, 2019
Secrets of Willow Springs is an outstanding story written by Tracy Fredrychowski. This story is full of mystery, love, and family. The incredible storyline moves along at a pace to keep the readers interest. The characters are very likeable and I enjoyed getting to know their stories.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Tracy Fredrychowski for writing a really inspirational story for her readers enjoyment. I look forward to the release of book 2 to continue this story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Tracy Fredrychowski for writing a really inspirational story for her readers enjoyment. I look forward to the release of book 2 to continue this story.
December 7, 2019
One of the best compliments I can give any book is that after I have finished reading it, I feel as if I had actually come to know the characters and the community. That’s how I felt after finishing this first book in the “Willow Springs” series. Tracy Fredrychowski’s description of the Byler family and the other Willow Springs residents made their characters come to life.
Emma Byler is eagerly looking forward to her sixteenth birthday and the changes that will bring to her life. She’s excited about attending her first Amish youth gathering. But as her birthday draws closer, she senses some tension about her birthday from her parents, especially her father. The secret that her parents have been keeping will change Emma’s life and challenge her faith and in part, their community. It’s an intriguing storyline that will keep you reading to the end of the book to see what choices Emma will make.
I loved following Emma’s story. This book is truly filled with faith, hope, and love. I’m looking forward to reading Book Two in this continuing series about Willow Springs.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Emma Byler is eagerly looking forward to her sixteenth birthday and the changes that will bring to her life. She’s excited about attending her first Amish youth gathering. But as her birthday draws closer, she senses some tension about her birthday from her parents, especially her father. The secret that her parents have been keeping will change Emma’s life and challenge her faith and in part, their community. It’s an intriguing storyline that will keep you reading to the end of the book to see what choices Emma will make.
I loved following Emma’s story. This book is truly filled with faith, hope, and love. I’m looking forward to reading Book Two in this continuing series about Willow Springs.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
September 21, 2019
Oh my goodness!
I honestly couldn’t put this story down until I reached the end. The author has truly done her research in a big way — and it shows. If you’re a Amish fiction reader and you’ve always wondered about Lob Lieb… you know, the second song the Amish sing at every Sunday church meeting… well, the author has generously included the English translation of the song so you can enjoy and appreciate it, too.
There are so many twists and turns, but the author does a fantastic job of bringing each one to a complete and satisfying close… and in a wonderful way. Even so, I can’t wait until the next book in this series is released so I can visit Willow Springs again.
Grab a copy of this amazing story today!
Happy Reading!
Read
March 14, 2022I loved this book! It also helped me with me walk with God. I love reading Amish stories especially love stories. I have always admired how the Amish put God first, then family, and community. We all could learn from them. I had such a peace after reading this book.
July 29, 2025
The story itself was fairly good. It made the phrase "it's a small world" even smaller, because everyone was connected to everything.
The rating is lower because I'm convinced the author did not have a copy editor. There were many, many, many grammatical errors, to the point it was confusing and I had to reread sentences more than once. There, also, weren't clear indicators that we were shifting character perspectives, so my brain had to work double time when we're in character "A" perspective and shift to character "B" perspective the next paragraph just to go back to character "A" the next. It wouldn't be as bad if it were just two perspectives, but we went through *at least* eight different character perspectives. That's kind of a lot of you don't have adequate writing skills to communicate with your readers what's happening.
I will probably still read the rest of the trilogy because it was a gift, and I'm curious to learn the rest of the story, though I have no hope for grammar improvement in the next two books. It makes the book less enjoyable.
The rating is lower because I'm convinced the author did not have a copy editor. There were many, many, many grammatical errors, to the point it was confusing and I had to reread sentences more than once. There, also, weren't clear indicators that we were shifting character perspectives, so my brain had to work double time when we're in character "A" perspective and shift to character "B" perspective the next paragraph just to go back to character "A" the next. It wouldn't be as bad if it were just two perspectives, but we went through *at least* eight different character perspectives. That's kind of a lot of you don't have adequate writing skills to communicate with your readers what's happening.
I will probably still read the rest of the trilogy because it was a gift, and I'm curious to learn the rest of the story, though I have no hope for grammar improvement in the next two books. It makes the book less enjoyable.
November 1, 2021
As I was reading this I felt I was having deja vu and then it occurred to me that I read this book years ago. I figured since I’m already halfway through at this point that I’ll finish it.
It was a sweet story about love and loss and innocence. I like reading books about the Amish life because it seems they live in a sort of simpler time. I realize they experience the same hardships as anyone, but I feel warm inside knowing there is such love of God (Gott) and family and the primary focus on God. That’s a special relationship.
The secrets were difficult to get out, but with the closeness of family everything was finally revealed and made many closer than ever. Some things brought a tear to my eye because they were sad, but also such loving involved.
My next choice is “Take What You Can Carry: A Novel” by Gian Sardar.
It was a sweet story about love and loss and innocence. I like reading books about the Amish life because it seems they live in a sort of simpler time. I realize they experience the same hardships as anyone, but I feel warm inside knowing there is such love of God (Gott) and family and the primary focus on God. That’s a special relationship.
The secrets were difficult to get out, but with the closeness of family everything was finally revealed and made many closer than ever. Some things brought a tear to my eye because they were sad, but also such loving involved.
My next choice is “Take What You Can Carry: A Novel” by Gian Sardar.
November 24, 2025
Read this for book club. No one liked in especially. Don't waste your time.
Why? Well, the story line could have been really great but it was not developed out enough. The amish names were too generic and similar and I kept getting confused about who was who. I had to make a cheat sheet. There is one in the front of the book, but it would have been tricky to go back and forth on the paperwhite. You already know how it is going to end ~ in general ~ by the middle of the book, but I stuck with them thinking the how they got there would be better, but it was not.
And the end? It just stops! No closure, no ~ so what happens?? This is book 1, but I got the idea book 2 was just going to start up a few years later and not even go back to cleanly wrap up the mess left at the end of book 1!!
Why? Well, the story line could have been really great but it was not developed out enough. The amish names were too generic and similar and I kept getting confused about who was who. I had to make a cheat sheet. There is one in the front of the book, but it would have been tricky to go back and forth on the paperwhite. You already know how it is going to end ~ in general ~ by the middle of the book, but I stuck with them thinking the how they got there would be better, but it was not.
And the end? It just stops! No closure, no ~ so what happens?? This is book 1, but I got the idea book 2 was just going to start up a few years later and not even go back to cleanly wrap up the mess left at the end of book 1!!
August 15, 2019
Readers of Amish fiction will love Tracy's debut book. The plot is woven in such a way that you are pulled into the story from the first page. To my delight, there are no boring parts and the book does not lag. I'm typically a slow reader, but I read the book in two days because I had to find out what happens next. Intriguing plot with twists and turns, this is one story you won't be able to put down! This definitely will not be my last Tracy Fredrychowski book. Looking forward to book two in this series. It can't come quickly enough!
*Disclosure: I received a copy of this book via the author. I was not required or asked to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and are honestly given.*
*Disclosure: I received a copy of this book via the author. I was not required or asked to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and are honestly given.*
August 8, 2020
A great read from a new author Tracy Fredrychowski! The first book in a series that will have you hooked and looking forward to the next one. Set in an Amish community you will feel peace, solitude and a closeness to God. The secrets and events happing will have you turning pages to see what will happen next. Each character will take a piece of your heart as they struggle with secrets and troubles. A quick read that is suitable for everyone. Grab a copy and get ready for a great series that you are sue to enjoy! I received and advanced readers copy of this book.
October 25, 2020
Young woman finds that no matter if she's Amish or English, God provides.
I chose this rating because I love the simple life of the Amish. In 1989 I had the opportunity to meet several Amish and Mennonite people who came to help repair the homes of those in our community who had heavy damage from Hurricane Hugo, and they are God fearing, loving people. I read as many books as I can about the Amish.
I chose this rating because I love the simple life of the Amish. In 1989 I had the opportunity to meet several Amish and Mennonite people who came to help repair the homes of those in our community who had heavy damage from Hurricane Hugo, and they are God fearing, loving people. I read as many books as I can about the Amish.
November 5, 2020
Secrets
Parents have a secret they're been keeping for almost sixteen years They made a promise to tell their daughter the truth on her sixteenth birthday. A young man decides it is time as his mother has been asking him to find his sister. An easy flowing story
with well developed characters who come to life as the story evolves. At the end I wanted more. I'll read the next book in the series.
Parents have a secret they're been keeping for almost sixteen years They made a promise to tell their daughter the truth on her sixteenth birthday. A young man decides it is time as his mother has been asking him to find his sister. An easy flowing story
with well developed characters who come to life as the story evolves. At the end I wanted more. I'll read the next book in the series.
August 10, 2022
It was an excellent book. Emma was a wonderful character to read about. She went through a lot living as an Amish daughter while be born to an English woman. The secrets & now the changes she faces now that she knows the truth it going to be very hard for her to go through. Her whole life is about to change. It was a very good story that kept me interested from start to finish. I cant wait to read book 2 & 3.
Tracy i a new author for me & I find her excellent as author & story teller.
Tracy i a new author for me & I find her excellent as author & story teller.
March 5, 2021
Interesting turn of events
This book was slow at times but there were so many storylines in play that you knew it would get better at any moment. And boy did it ever. I saw a few things coming but the journey while slow at times, was not expected. Going to continue to see if all storylines are resolved.
This book was slow at times but there were so many storylines in play that you knew it would get better at any moment. And boy did it ever. I saw a few things coming but the journey while slow at times, was not expected. Going to continue to see if all storylines are resolved.
August 10, 2021
Secrets
Oh my! What a fabulous story! I didn't want to put it down. This is my first time reading any of Tracy's books and I look forward to reading more. The characters are well developed and engaging. What a beautiful mixture of story and God's love! His love is unfailing for imperfect people.
Oh my! What a fabulous story! I didn't want to put it down. This is my first time reading any of Tracy's books and I look forward to reading more. The characters are well developed and engaging. What a beautiful mixture of story and God's love! His love is unfailing for imperfect people.
October 10, 2021
Secrets never stay secret.
A horrible treatment for her Mother led to Elizabeth becoming Emma.. An act of love gave her two parents who needed help themselves. How hearts can take love of another and still have room to give that love to someone else.. God has a way of working out what a person needs even when they don't know themselves.
A horrible treatment for her Mother led to Elizabeth becoming Emma.. An act of love gave her two parents who needed help themselves. How hearts can take love of another and still have room to give that love to someone else.. God has a way of working out what a person needs even when they don't know themselves.
June 2, 2022
Who Am I?
This was a beautifully written story of a Englisher girl who was raised as Amish as the result of her mothers incarceration shortly after her birth. At the age of16 her Amish parents relate to her the story of how she came to them and why she was raised Amish. It was a touching story that was hard to put down and one that I would highly recommend!
This was a beautifully written story of a Englisher girl who was raised as Amish as the result of her mothers incarceration shortly after her birth. At the age of16 her Amish parents relate to her the story of how she came to them and why she was raised Amish. It was a touching story that was hard to put down and one that I would highly recommend!
September 28, 2020
Secrets
This was an awesome book. The characters were well developed, and the storyline compelling. This is definitely a page turner. This is my first time reading from this author, and I'm hooked.
This was an awesome book. The characters were well developed, and the storyline compelling. This is definitely a page turner. This is my first time reading from this author, and I'm hooked.
January 14, 2022
Just ok
I enjoy reading Amish books but I had a hard time getting interested in it and as I was slowly getting there with the discharge, boom, it was over, next book please! I do not plan on going on to book two.
I enjoy reading Amish books but I had a hard time getting interested in it and as I was slowly getting there with the discharge, boom, it was over, next book please! I do not plan on going on to book two.
March 30, 2022
Excellent story!
A moving page turning Amish story with suspense and romance. I loved the plot and the strong characters. Perfect story for those who enjoy the Amish story genre.
I’m very glad I was able to read this book!
A moving page turning Amish story with suspense and romance. I loved the plot and the strong characters. Perfect story for those who enjoy the Amish story genre.
I’m very glad I was able to read this book!
May 29, 2022
Fantastic
Excellent cast of characters. The
storyline just pulls you in. I finished Book 1 and immediately started Book 2. Can't wait to get to Book 3. So so happy with the writings of this author!
Excellent cast of characters. The
storyline just pulls you in. I finished Book 1 and immediately started Book 2. Can't wait to get to Book 3. So so happy with the writings of this author!
January 27, 2023
A very emotional book
This was a very good book and it really touches your heart for all the people this book affected. It was a good testimony of faith and trust in God. It is very well written. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
This was a very good book and it really touches your heart for all the people this book affected. It was a good testimony of faith and trust in God. It is very well written. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
December 10, 2024
The book brings you right into the story, it doesn't bore you nor ever make you think you know what's going to happen next. Great book! And very interesting and informative, learning about the Amish. Highly recommend!
November 27, 2019
This is another book I could not put down. What a great read of secrets, Gods blessings and forgiveness.. must read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews