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Behind Blue Curtains: A True Crime Memoir of an Amish Woman's Survival, Escape, and Pursuit of Justice
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.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2021
478 people are currently reading
861 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
February 8, 2023
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.
October 11, 2021
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.
May 5, 2021
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
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
April 23, 2021
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.
September 4, 2021
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.
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.
February 16, 2022
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.
July 9, 2025
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.
July 26, 2021
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.
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.
April 11, 2021
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.
August 22, 2021
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!
May 11, 2021
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.
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.
July 21, 2024
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.
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.
March 23, 2024
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!
October 21, 2024
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.
June 22, 2021
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.
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.
October 28, 2021
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!
October 28, 2021
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!
September 3, 2021
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.
July 12, 2021
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.
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.
June 10, 2022
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.
October 19, 2022
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.
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.
June 22, 2021
This is a nonfiction book, and I'm glad I read. The author is not a writer, but she needed to tell her story.
July 1, 2021
A very personal, but painful story that needed to be told.
July 22, 2021
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.
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.
April 8, 2022
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!!!
October 23, 2022
Blue curtains.
Heartbreaking true story of the life of girls in the Amish community. So glad it was exposed. A good read.
Heartbreaking true story of the life of girls in the Amish community. So glad it was exposed. A good read.
April 15, 2026
People tend to be curious and fascinated by the Amish culture. Their simple and gentle way of life. They keep to themselves, and live by their own strict rules. That lifestyle sets them up for a darker side of their culture. Men have the upper hand in their lifestyle, women have little say and must be obedient to their Husbands or elders. This is not the first time I have heard, read or watched documentaries about the abuse that goes unreported by the Amish community. There is a pattern of control and abuse that we are hearing more and more about as the younger generation is deciding to escape from it and talk about it. The Author Lizzie was born and raised Amish.The oldest child of the family with the most responsibilities.She was subjected to sexual abuse first by an Uncle and later by a man whom she was hired by to help with his family ( like a maid and Nanny) he was 27 yrs old and she was only 14 when he started grooming her to take advantage of her. Word got around and it was Lizzie who was accused of being the instigator. After a few attempts to break away from the Amish, she finally leaves for good at 18. Fast forward 30 yrs and she is a married mother of 4 and a Teacher. A scandal involving a sexual relationship between a fellow teacher and student triggers her darkest memories and she finds the strength to report her abuse to police. Her offender admitted his guilt and was only sentenced to a short jail sentence, but it has inspired Lizzie to fight for all children who are victims of sexual abuse. This was a good and quick read.
July 2, 2022
A must-read for Amish and their friends
I have a heart for the Amish, as one of my dearest friends is an Amish great-grandma many times over. When it came to my attention that an English midwife has been involved in the births of babies from incest, and that an Amish allegedly had 15 infant bodies in her shed waiting for the spring thaw, I have wondered what I could do to help the children who are being abused but have no voice, no one to go to for help when this horribly traumatic experience happens to them. This book is incredible! This author one of the most courageous people I’ve come across! I’d like to give a copy to every household in the nearby Amish community!
I have a heart for the Amish, as one of my dearest friends is an Amish great-grandma many times over. When it came to my attention that an English midwife has been involved in the births of babies from incest, and that an Amish allegedly had 15 infant bodies in her shed waiting for the spring thaw, I have wondered what I could do to help the children who are being abused but have no voice, no one to go to for help when this horribly traumatic experience happens to them. This book is incredible! This author one of the most courageous people I’ve come across! I’d like to give a copy to every household in the nearby Amish community!
March 5, 2026
I wasn't anticipating the emotional journey I would end up going through while reading this memoir. Lizzy is brutally honest, and open about her experiences. Having to shift her life over and over again, all to end up joining English society must have been so incredibly difficult. Testifying against the man who abused you feels like an impossible task, but she did so with grace, and with a village full of support. There were things said that were hard to listen to, and were heavy, but the story shared is important and should be heard. If you are curious about the wrongdoings that can occur in the Amish community, Lizzy Hershberger provides a raw and honest first hand experience.
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May 16, 2023Really interesting look into one of the most strict Amish groups in the US. I had quite a lot of contact with Amish in the midwest growing up, and never cared for how dead-eyed the children and women always were. I've mostly heard negative things about the way their men treat the women, how the men and women treat the children, and how poorly all of them treat animals. Sounds like a horrible way of life. This poor woman's life with the Amish sounded awful. Really glad I didn't grow up like this!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews