Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman's Survival, Escape, and Pursuit of Justice

by Lizzy Hershberger, Molly Eagan

When Lizzy Hershberger turns fourteen, her schooling ends at eighth grade, and she has no choice but to leave home to work as an unpaid maid for another family. To avoid being rejected by her ultra-conservative Swartzentruber Amish family and community, Lizzy is forced to abandon her dreams because they are “too worldly.” After being raped by an Amish deacon over two dozen times, Lizzy makes her first attempt at “jumping the fence” to pursue a non-Amish lifestyle. But without any modern life experience or education, Lizzy must decide whether the risks of this unpredictable and dangerous world are worth losing the ties to her Amish friends and family forever. Almost thirty years later, after she has created a new life for herself, her small community is rocked by disturbing sexual assault allegations. Lizzy must decide whether to keep silent for her newly-created family’s sake or come forward against the church to advocate for the Amish children she left behind. In 2019, Lizzy Hershberger successfully brought her abuser to justice in an extraordinarily rare case addressing sexual abuse in the Amish church. She faced death threats and intense pressure to stop telling her story. Lizzy refused to back down, and she forged ahead to spark a national movement bringing awareness to the prevalence of sexual assault in isolated communities protected by religious liberties. This gripping true crime memoir reveals the truth behind one of America’s most revered and secretive religious sects—hidden behind the blue curtains of the Amish lifestyle.

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction, Memoir, Cults, Biography Memoir, Biography, Amish

174 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2021

Reviews

[Em Reiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book came recommended to me after I read 'In the name of Mission Work'.. wouldn't recommend reading a lot of these books back to back or you might want to throw your anabaptist- ism in the garbage to not be affiliated remotely with any of these people, churches, and the horrible stories. It's a well written account though, and worth the read, though heartbreaking.

[Jolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman’s Survival by Lizzy Hershberger with Maeve Egan. Lizzy Hershberger was raised by ultra-conservative Swartzentruber Amish in Minnesota. This is her true story of what went on behind blue curtains in her community. Her family and the community denied this abuse and blamed her for what happened. Thirty years later she came forward and filed charges against her attacker because she was 14 and he was 27 and her employer. A heart-wrenching story written to protect the children in future generations from this type of abuse and an attempt to finally break the cycle.

[Lynn Perry · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Limited Memoir: Missing 30 Years

This book was not what I was expecting in that it was basically about Lizzy's life prior to her final abandonment of her Amish family, with a very brief look into her life 30 years later when she sought prosecution of her childhood sexual abuser. There is absolutely no info re the 30 intervening years of her life as she broke away from the society she knew and integrated (presumably) into English society. The book did provide a good, but limited, introduction to the Amish culture, particularly with regard to its sexual standards. Aside from not adressing Lizzy's post-escape life in any detail, her story also ended very abruptly, leaving it unstated as to what punishment, if any, her abuser actually received. Overall, the book was interesting; it just didn't have the breadth I was expecting

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up with the Amish community right in my back yard and little did I know past the hard work, adorable children and delicious baked goods. This book is beautifully written and you won't want to put it down. A story of true strength and bravery. A book that will make you appreciate everything you have and show how much we can do even with nothing to work with. Lizzie is an inspiration! I encourage everyone to read this.

[Gisela K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent, heartbreaking, impactful memoir!

This is a wonderfully written true crime memoir. Lizzy's story is heartbreaking and yet, comforting in the sense that it helped me realize that I am not alone in my own trauma. Her brave pursual of justice decades later is inspiring and positively impacts so many lives, breaking the cycle of abuse in many cases. Thank you, Lizzy.

[Regina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A familiar story that all to often goes unread. The more I learn about the rampant sexual abuse in the Amish community, the more disgusted I become. It takes a lot of courage for the author to speak out but I'm glad she did.

[Jennifer Myers]

Per my own rules, I don’t give star ratings to memoirs. I certainly learned more about the Amish way of life, and while it seems like we as humans always expect people behaving badly, this is another example of how power imbalances are at play, even in a community that’s always been billed as “gentle and simple” (at least that’s my view). Some of the things described are downright disgusting and hard to fathom, so be warned. This memoir was more like a woman’s essay or journal on her life, so don’t expect a captivating writing style- but it’s important to get experiences like this out in the public so that hopefully the cycle of abuse can be disrupted.

[Lory Sakay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short read but not an easy read as it delves into very difficult topics I was unaware ran so rampant within the Amish community. I was expecting a mystery, from the summary, but what I got was a punch in the gut, hearing the author recount horrendous and traumatic events throughout her childhood. I didn’t particularly enjoy the writing style but fully appreciated Hershberger’s courage in sharing her story despite decades of community pressure to remain silent.

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking on the link below. It is also posted in full.

https://novelsalive.com/2021/07/26/3-...
I rated the book 3.5 stars but rounded to 4 stars here and on other sites.

Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman’s Survival, Escape and Pursuit of Justice by Lizzy Hershberger was eye-opening in the crimes committed and how adults and those holding positions in the church or the members who looked the other way if not directly participating in the crimes themselves. The story had more darkness than light, and although I was able to read it in a few hours, I had to put it down several times and distance myself from the ugliness.

The story was a little confusing going back and forth from past to present and was choppy as a result. Lizzie is at the heart of the story, as is her family and extended family. Her mom is awful in her parenting skills and her dedication to her Amish roots and beliefs. It was sad to see the picture that was painted but heartwarming to see that Lizzie wanted to protect those who couldn’t defend themselves. She had very few people she could count on and so many that tried to take advantage of her in both the Amish and English communities.

The pictures were unexpected, especially since the Amish don’t like to have their photos taken. The diary entries were cold. The ending gave some closure but did any of it make a difference if it’s still happening in their communities? The cover was apropos to the story.

The subject matter of Behind Blue Curtains is exceptionally disturbing, and it may have changed my perception of Amish life, and It may be difficult to enjoy the genre as I have in the past. However, it took great courage for Ms. Hershberger to bring the abuses to light and to fight against a patriarchal society that not only perpetuates these abuses but intimidates others into silence and capitulation. That is such a difficult system to fight against.
While this book may not be for everyone, I do think it did a great job highlighting hidden abuses within the Amish faithful. Abuse should always be called out wherever it lurks and should not be hidden. For this, Lizzie should be applauded.

I rated the book 3.5 stars but rounded to 4 stars here and on other sites.

[Brenda Kominek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Began to read this book before going to bed. Big mistake. I could not put it down! And finally fell asleep and finished the book the next morning. My heart aches for the author and all she has been through. I admire her courage and care to protect those who come after her. Her compassion for those still being hurt fueled her courage to stand agaisnt her abuser. Very inspiring.

[Julie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing book. I was a little nervous about this book at first. Of course being a true story. Well I couldn't put it down. I was such a tear jerking story. My heart goes out to Lizzy, Royal and any other victim. Can't wait for your next book!

[Amie Nixdorf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devastating and heartbreaking are the two descriptions that flow immediately after finishing this book. The fact that religious belief continues to veil sexual predation and protect predators from justice is appalling and sickning.

The fact that the women participated in the cover up of rape and the isolation/shaming of a 14 year old child is even worse. Any religion that teaches men can use women however they see fit needs to be discarded.

I’m glad she escaped, found her voice, and continues to advocate for other Amish children hidden behind the wall of silence.

[kimberly k griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for woman warriors everywhere.

Just finished reading this heartbreaking but inspiring true story. I am ugly crying. Lizzie endured so much, as have so many young Amish girls.I am so proud of her and so many others who are speaking out against the rampant sexual abuse within those communities.You are truly Voices of Hope. May we all be warriors for truth and take a stand to protect the children. Lizzie Hershberger, I am proud to call you friend.

Molly Eagan - you did a beautiful job.

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Raped Amish Girl

Lizzie shares her experience growing up Amish and the hardships that she faced. As a young teenager, she was forced to work for a deacon in their community who raped her repeatedly. Finally, as an adult, she was able to escape the community and eventually brought the perpetrator to justice.

[Tracy McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only giving the 4 Star rating because the part 2 would have been better included throughout part 1. As for the book itself, I am sad for any child (or adult) who has gone through such a horrible ordeal. May God Bless you!

[Brynne Schweigel-Skeers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am glad Lizzie shared her story. This was a hard read, despite its short length. She is an inspirational leader and has changed the world by speaking out, whether she knows it or not.

[Erika · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5* Really enjoyed this read. It’s not something I’ve ever read about. I would have liked more detail about their way of life in general but still very interesting and sad.

[Wendy M Shepard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this true story

Very well written with content graphic enough to understand events and Lizzy's age and mindset. It is incomprehensible that these events transpired, everything from the rape(s) to the community backlash toward a child.
As a survivor of sexual assault at 13 years old, the trauma was difficult to read about but necessary to walk through the fire. I was shushed, shamed and overlooked. I live with the very real reality there had to be other victims. When your assailant is not only an adult, older, to be respected and an authority figure the turned heads are all the more hurtful.
My heart cries out a huge thank you to Lizzy for speaking out and standing up for the children left behind. True judgement is God's alone, vengeance is His.

[Sunshine Hoover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent book. I applaud the bravery of Lizzie! I have always had a fascination with the Amish people and culture. This book explores the darker, seedier side of the Amish that I always knew was there, but no one ever really spoke about. I hate that young Lizzie had to endure such abuse in her young life, and then to make it worse, the shunning from her own family! Thank you for sharing your story and being an advocate for the young children who haven't yet found their own voice!

[Sunshine Hoover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent book. I applaud the bravery of Lizzie! I have always had a fascination with the Amish people and culture. This book explores the darker, seedier side of the Amish that I always knew was there, but no one ever really spoke about. I hate that young Lizzie had to endure such abuse in her young life, and then to make it worse, the shunning from her own family! Thank you for sharing your story and being an advocate for the young children who haven't yet found their own voice!

[Mary Deighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met Lizzy in SHIPSHEWANA Indiana this past August she presented her true story to our group, I bought this book and set out to read it 2 days ago . I read this book in 2 days it had an emotional impact on my life and feel that Lizzy is a very strong woman and talented writer. I am looking forward to reading more of he books in the future.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read .

Another powerful story about how the plain community does a good job of sweeping these things under the rug and manage to make the victim feel as if it’s their fault . Hopefully as more of these stories come to light the perpetrators will be held accountable.

[Janine Holter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thank the author for having the courage to tell her story. This was a difficult and necessary read. I have property near the area this took place. As in any community, there are predators, and it seems the most repressive ones use so call rules of piety to hide their own terrible sins.

[Calvin H Budgell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye Opener Into Amish Way of Life

This book is a must read. I have read many books on the Amish but this one is by far the most informative and heart wrenching. Thank you to the Author for sharing your sensitive life with me.

[Myra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nonfiction book, and I'm glad I read. The author is not a writer, but she needed to tell her story.

[Brit · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very personal, but painful story that needed to be told.

[Ashley Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

A well-written memoir that invokes sadness, anger and every emotion in between. A look into a life not normally seen by outsiders. A must read.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Really enjoyed this book. I found the author did a great job at transporting me to a different time and place and walking me through Lizzy’s life. Great book!!!

[Anne Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blue curtains.

Heartbreaking true story of the life of girls in the Amish community. So glad it was exposed. A good read.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lizzy Hershberger and her co-writer, Molly Maeve Eagan, do an amazing job with some very difficult material. I bought this memoir after seeing a screening and live discussion between Lizzy Hershberger and "Nightbitch" author Rachel Yoder of the PBS film "Keep Quiet and Forgive," which features Lizzy's journey to advocacy for women and children from Plain groups who have been abused in their communities. The book illustrates how trauma is passed from one generation to another and how one of the most beautiful aspects of Amish faith--the seriousness with which it takes Jesus' command to forgive--is turned against victims of rape, abuse, and incest.
Worse, women are blamed for these crimes. As Lizzy says in her victim impact statement, "[My abuser] Aden's supporters would have you believe that at fourteen, I was a sophisticated homewrecker." The mercy that the church demands for the abusers is withheld from the victims.
Lizzy's view, though, is nuanced. Through her eyes, we see different degrees and locales of humanity and inhumanity. Although abuse in her Amish community is pervasive, she observes with curiosity an Amish family that doesn't exhibit these patterns; she also meets English folks (Amish term for non-Amish) who prey on vulnerable young women as well as English folks who are generous and kind. Everywhere, we see people who look the other way.
Over the span of 30 years, we see Lizzy's shame, confusion, and mixed feelings towards her abusers gain clarity and resolution with the perspective offered by validation and a modicum of justice. She is able to both condemn and forgive. Importantly, she is able to parent differently than she was parented.
For those with an anthropological bent or an interest in Amish, note that, amid the horror of abuse, the book offers fascinating glimpses of culture--Schnapps and late night parties, menstrual superstitions, the religious policing of curtain fabric, the methods of Amish mean girls, the wonder of a barn raising, the irrelevance of the Bible, the awkwardness of bundling (the Amish courtship practice of going to bed together with a sheet between), and the outsized role of chiropractors in Amish healthcare, to name a few. But all this rich detail is in service of Lizzy's remarkable story.