When tragedy strikes, will this young Amish couple be able to overcome one of life's most challenging circumstances?
Loss, depression, and pain face Samuel and Emma Yoder as they maneuver through their first year of marriage.
When secrets become too much to bear, Samuel and Emma pull away from each other. Will they be able to admit their fears and heartache to find their way back to God?
Young love is tested in this first book of The Amish Women of Lawrence County Series.
Adhering to their Old Order ways means they must turn their backs on the truth they find in Jesus. Will this young couple be able to step out in faith to save both their marriage and their community?
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.
An amazing book, so well written! I cried over Emma’s story of loss. And I loved the story and look forward to the rest of the series. This author, Tracy Fredrychowski is one I’m not real familiar with. But it’s obvious that she is very talented. Great book for those who love Amish fiction with real believable characters. I was given a copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
Emma''s story is a touching, heartfelt love story, in which God has such a powerful hand! Emma and her husband Samuel are struck with tragedy and their marriage becomes very strained. Emma loses her faith in God and kind of loses her way. She gets sent away to her mom's house in Sugarcreek, which spirals into a spiritual, rollercoaster ride of sorts for her. She finds her way out of her dark hole that she has been in since her tragedy, and she realizes she needs God more than ever! She ends up in Pinecraft, Florida with her grandma and Samuel ends up finding out she's there. They discover a new truth about Jesus that their Old World Amish Life has been "hiding" from them. They are happy with their new outlook on life and what is in their hearts. But, how will their Amish Community react? What will happen to them if their "secret" is found out? Get your copy and read this amazing story of faith, love, God, and so much more! I received an ARC of this book and the opinions are all my own.
Emma’s Amish Faith Tested is a story that found me immersed into this touching, heartfelt and faith filled story from the start. Emma and Samuel tragedy of losing their first child brought struggles, strained their marriage and tested Emma’s upbringing deeply. This moving story gave way to multiple twists and turns where Emma found herself feeling lost, alone and making a quick decision that was not normal for a married Amish woman. The unfolding of events gave way to many emotions from tears to smiles. There is an affectionate weaving of Biblical truths that God’s way is higher than ours and that He is the source for peace during the darkest valley of our lives. How will Emma and Samuel move forward? Fans of Amish Christian fiction will not want to miss reading this amazing book.
The characters are dimensional and well developed with the scenes being vividly authentic and picturesque woven into this masterful story. I will be looking forward to read the next book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County Series, knowing Fredrychoowski write from her heart and what God inspires her to create for readers.
I received an advance copy of the book from the author without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion.
I couldn’t put this one down. I was so immersed in the story from the beginning and could identify with the feeling of loss that Emma experienced. I loved the spiritual journey that she finds herself in as she searches for truth instead of accepting what she has known and been told since she was a child. This story shares the wonderful message of Christ and deals with loss, family, friends, and the love of a husband and wife. Real characters with flaws and situations that need to be worked through. I throughly enjoyed this book but needed tissues. This is a new author to me and I definitely want to read all that she has written. I won a copy of this book. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Emma's Amish Faith Tested - The Amish Women of Lawrence County Series - Book 1 by Tracy Fredrychowski is a touching story. Emma is expecting her first baby with her husband Samuel. Then the unexpected happens- Emma loses her precious baby. Emma and Samuel are Old Order Amish and they are taught to “move on” after their loss. This book is about Emma’s healing journey. Tracy Fredrychowski’s characters are so believable and relatable! This is not your typical Amish book. The issues in this story- loss of a child, questioning your faith, are issues that many of us have dealt with. You will enjoy this story of love and faith. I want to thank the author and The Tracer Group for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I enjoy books that make me think on a personal level and this one did just that.
Emma is a young Amish mom-to-be who experiences the unthinkable. At war with herself, her husband, and the Old Order church she agrees to go visit her English turned Amish mom for healing. On her way home, she makes the decision that changes her life forever.
This was a much different Amish read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is very heavy on the religious aspect. Much talk of going out and spreading God’s word as the Bible instructs. It also teaches us that all marriages will have difficulties but we must listen to each other and find ways to compromise and work together. We need more of that instead of the easy out of divorce as the first thought.
I have previously read a short story/novella by the author but this was my first full-length book. I am already checking to see if my library carries her previously published books.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
Hello Readers, This book is the first in the new series The Amish Women of Lawrence County. As an author, there are times when a story takes on a personal message, and this book did just that.
Emma and Samuel have to face so many challenges as a newly married couple that they have no choice but to turn to the only one that can give them true peace. Who of us hasn't had to face the same thing at some point in our lives? When their Old Older Amish upbringing prevents them from finding the truth, they may have to challenge the Bishop in the process.
Emma’s Amish Faith Tested by Tracy Fredrychowski When tragedy strikes, will this young Amish couple be able to overcome one of life's most challenging circumstances? Loss, depression, and pain face Samuel and Emma Yoder as they maneuver their way through their first year of marriage. When secrets become too much to bear, Samuel and Emma pull away from each other. Will they be able to admit their fears and heartache to find their way back to God? Young love is tested in this first book of The Amish Women of Lawrence County Series. Adhering to their Old Order ways means they must turn their backs on the truth they find in Jesus. Will this young couple be able to step out in faith to save both their marriage and their community? This is Emma and Samuel Yoder's story. Emma and Samuel face the struggles to accept God's plan for their life today! Read how this Old Order Amish couple come to know God's healing power. Emma Yoder snuggled in close to her husband, Samuel, and rested her hand on his arm. She took in the slow rise of his chest and thanked God for all the blessings He provided during their first year of marriage. Trying not to wake him, she listened as the winter wind whistled around the small doddi haus they called home. Samuel and her bruder, Daniel, were spending long hours building their new house in the field next to his parents. No heat and short days were making progress slow. In the wee hours right before dawn, Emma treasured the few moments of her husband’s warmth before the alarm jolted him from slumber. As she lifted her knee and laid it across his thigh, a small jolt from her protruding tummy woke him. In a raspy voice next to her ear, “I swear that boy will come out running.” She moved her cheek to his chest, “What makes you so sure it’s a boy?” He moved a wisp of her honey blonde hair from his chin and kissed the top of her head. “Wishful thinking, I guess.” I recommend reading. Emma’s Amish Faith Tested by Tracy Fredrychowski is a 5 star book. I am looking forward to reading more books by Tracy Fredrychowski. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Please note: This book deals with the loss of a child. If that’s emotional trigger for you, you may not want to read this review.
This is not a “boy meets girl, happily ever after” type of book. Instead, it’s a true look at the internal struggle that can happen when great loss and faith collide together in a tragic circumstance. There’s also hope and healing, and Emma’s story is about the journey to reach that point.
In this book, Tracey Fredrychowski has given us a storyline that’s very true to real life. Emma is deeply grieving the loss of her unborn child. Her grief is closing her off from her family and friends, and she’s finding it almost impossible to move forward in life. Although her husband, Samuel, is also grieving, he’s having a difficult time understanding the depth of Emma’s grief. But it’s not only the loss of her child that Emma is grieving, it’s the loss of her faith. She’s beginning to question the Old Order’s beliefs, and that sends her on a search to find what she truly believes about God and how He works in our lives.
The author did an incredible job of guiding us through Emma’s search for comfort and true faith. At times, it was difficult to read about Emma’s grief and it was almost as though I could share in her sorrow. However, the transformation that Emma goes through is worth reading about her struggle. I am so glad that the author clearly shows the way of salvation through faith in Christ. That’s the transformation point for all of us, and this story will definitely have an impact on the reader. Please don’t hesitate to read about Emma’s journey from despair to hope. You’ll be glad you read this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Tracy Fredrychowski has written the most thoughtful and heartwarming story of tragedy, loss, and redemption I've read in a long time. This story line is a topic that I'm sure a lot of women such as myself have dealt with. Emma and Samuel Yoder suffer through a tragedy that is heartbreaking and extremely painful for both of them especially Emma. As Emma's grief overcomes her she and Samuel grow distant with one another and the bitterness and hurt engulfs them both. When Emma takes herself on an unexpected trip that presented itself to her, she takes a chance and finds what she needs to begin the healing process. When friends and family suggest Samuel go after Emma he too finds an answer to his prayers. This is such a compelling story line. It is extremely relatable and the warmth in which Tracy weaves this story together will grab your heart. I giggled, felt the hurt and pain of Emma and Samuel, and traveled along on their road to healing. True to her writing style, Tracy weaves together a book that will deeply touch your heart. One of my favorite things about her books is the Godly messages she writes into them. I received an ebook copy from the author but was under no obligation to post a review. It was my absolute pleasure to write a review. This is a must read for fans of Tracy Fredrychowski!
Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored by author Tracy Fredrychowski is Book Two in her Christian Amish series, The Amish Women of Lawrence County. It may be read as a standalone, but I must tell you, I loved Book One. Author Tracy Fredrychowski is fast becoming a favorite of mine.
This is the tale of Rebecca. She is the opposite of what I imagine an Amish young lady might be like. She is bitter, rude, and just not nice. That is all on the outside. It is also the story of Eli, a caring Amish man taking care of his grandmother, Mary. He and Rebecca have a history, which makes things uncomfortable at first.
Beautifully written, this story is about how God can take a troubled heart and transform it into a loving one. He uses certain people as His vessels and everything works to His Glory. I loved the Christian messages that were woven like gold thread throughout the colorful tapestry of this heartfelt story.
I highly recommend this book. Any Amish fiction fan will adore this book. It will make a nice reading group selection because there are many things to discuss. It receives a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the author, but these are my honest words.
The stillborn birth of their first baby, puts a devastating strain on Samuel & Emma's marriage. The loss cripples Emma to the point that she questions if life is worth going on. As she completely shuts Samuel out, he has no idea how to help Emma cope with her grief & pain. Emma see Samuel as being cold & callus, as he throws himself into work to deal with his grief & frustration.
A spur of the moment decision secretly finds Emma on a bus to her Grandmothers home in Pinewood, Florida. There Emma meets a new friend, who also suffered the loss of a first baby & she helps Emma find her way back to God & Samuel.
Fredrychowski writes this tragic story of intense grief, loss of faith, marital discord, with a sweet & loving touch. She writes of renewed faith & new spiritual truths being revealed to Samuel & Emma, as healing occurs as well as a renewal of love.
I thoroughly enjoyed book one in The Women Of Lawrence County series & look forward to each successive story.
I was provided an advanced readers copy, but all thoughts are my own.
Emma is anxiously awaiting the birth of her child when tragedy strikes and claims all her happiness. She tries to cope but needs to find her way to recovery, but she can't find the peace she needs despite all the attempts to help her from family and friends. The firm ways of the Ordnung of her people is not helping in her situation. She searches for the way to peace through Jesus' teachings bringing the hope she needs to overcome her trials. I love how this book teaches us to rely on Jesus and the teachings of the Bible. And to have faith in God's love for us. It's a very engaging book of a strong Amish woman who needs to understand and follow God's plan for her and her family and find the resolve for her emotional journey.
I highly recommend this wonderful book!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required or asked to leave a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Emma by Tracy Fredrychowski is Book 1 in the Amish Women of Lawrence County Series This book spoke to my heart and brought me back to the days I helped young couples deal with some of the same problem Emma and Samual had to deal with. This book is one of heartache but also one of great joy that will remind us all that through great loss and pain we can concentrate on the negative and let it pull us down or we can choose to remember that God always as a master plan for each of each and even through the heart wrenching pain we will travel through it too can teach us something so much bigger if we just keep our faith and believe in his love for us. Life is never easy but it will be so worth the journey to our final destination. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and I believe you will too. I look forward to Book 2 in the series. I highly recommend this book, I was gifted a copy for my honest opinion and believe me when I say this is one you will be glad you purchased and read.
I enjoyed how the author, Tracy, brought the characters and storyline full circle in their faith. She incorporates faith, trust, and perseverance throughout the storyline. When Emma and Samuel suffer the loss of their unborn baby, their faith in God and each other is put to the test and it doesn’t help when they start keeping secrets from each other. The couple begins doubting God, having a lack of trust with each other and start questioning their faith. When different people and circumstances are put in their lives, they suddenly get a whole new perspective on what God’s word says and what it is teaching them if they just open their ears and hearts to His word.
Will they be able to salvage their marriage? How will the couple’s reading and studying God’s word affect their status in the Amish community?
I highly recommend this book and found it to be very engaging and thought provoking. I was given an ARC of this book from the author for my honest opinion and review.
If you enjoy reading a good Amish Fiction story, here's the next one you need to read. Having spent time over the last forty years visiting Amish and Mennonite friends in mid-Ohio's Amish community, it's refreshing to read an Amish story that is more accurate to what happens in their lives.
This story pulls you in and you want to sit and talk to Emma and hold her hand. Her heart is broken and you want to be a friend and give her a hug! It's a fast paced book full of conflict that keeps you turning pages to see the outcome. There might have been a tear or two - or more! The author has done a great job of keeping you wanting more.
I recommend this book.
Disclaimer: I have received a digital advanced reader copy of this book with no expectation in return. The comments above are my own honest thoughts regarding this book.
By far one of my favorite Amish fiction books that that I have read. I love every aspect of this story and how well written it is. The author pulls no punches in this book. You have a couple that deals with a tragedy and then finds hope in the gospel - which in and of itself leads to another dilemma for them. I particularly like how Mrs. Fedrychowski does not try to sugar coat what is going on with the couple or the Amish community in and of itself. It was cool that a lot of this story took place in Pinecraft which is across the state from me (I'm in Daytona).
Also - I have read a TON of Amish fiction. This book - to date - by far - has presented the gospel more clearly and succinctly than any other I have read. Well-done, sister - I look forward to the next one! I cannot wait to see what happens with mean-spirited and prideful Rebecca! Good things I'm sure....
Tracy Fredrychowski is one of my favorite authors. Each book she writes is better than the last and Emma's Amish Faith Tested is one of her best. Overcoming grief while trusting in the Lord is not easy. Emma has been waiting for the birth of her child when she suffers the loss of the child. Immediately her faith and the faith of her husband is severely tested. How can she move on and what is the Lord trying to teach her? Emma learns many lessons but most importantly she learns to develop a true trust in Jesus. I look forward to the next book in this series.
*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.
Emma's story touched my heart in so many ways. When she lost her baby, And was so upset, I wanted to cry for her. I felt so bad for Samuel because it was like Emma was so lost in grief that he didn't know what to do. But God knew what needed to be done. Samuel had a secret and he didn't tell Emma till later in the story. I love how Tracy Fredrychowski tells how the Bible shows us what God really wants from us, and what the ordung really teaches in the Amish church. I can't wait to read the next story as I want to see how God works for the good with the next sister..I was given an ARC copy for an honest review.. these are my own words.
In Emma’s Amish Faith Tested we are taken on a journey of faith tested and found wanting, to a new way of believing in an old religion. Emma Yoder, devastated by the death of her only child in the womb, finds little solace in her Old Order Amish faith. On impulse she goes on a trip to Florida and begins another journey, one of faith. Tracy Fredrychowski masterfully takes us through twists and turns as Emma discovers a new way of believing that will heal her heart and change her life.
Disclaimer. I was given an advance copy of this book by the author. I was not told or asked to give a positive review.
A breath of fresh air for Amish fiction readers, Emma’s Faith Tested finally sheds light on how some Amish districts interpret the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Fredrychowski’s real-to-life characters took me on a journey I won’t soon forget of love, life, and the Truth of the Gospel. The book not only entertained, but it inspired me in my own faith and reminded me of my call to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ with others.
I received this book as a gift from the author in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
I was daunted at first with the size of the book, then by the title. She lost an unborn child through an accident but couldn’t understand when her Bishop told her to suck it up and move on. So begins Emma’s journey of faith. Turns out the Old Order Amish are more like Pharisees than you’d think. Emma discovers what her mother wanted her to find: Salvation through faith, not adhering to ordnances of main that looks a whole like a works gospel. I’m hooked folks, buckle up.
One couples journey with loss, relationship problems, faith, finding oneself, dealing with grief abd and recovery. All this , in this story of a young Amish family finding their way with God and learning to live one another again. Great story, I can’t wait for the next in the series. I was gifted an early copy of this book for my honest opinion and review.
This is the first book I’ve read by Tracy and was unexpectedly captivated. I read it in one day and hung on to every word. The storylines and characters were carefully planned and executed. This is also the first Amish novel I have read that takes the characters raised by the Ordnung, to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. I can only pray there are these types of Christian Amish that are really spreading His Word as it is written. Now onto Book 2.
Emma's Amish Faith Tested is a story that holds your attention. Emma walks through a heart-wrenching tragedy and has trouble coming out the other side. She questions her faith and cannot bring herself to move forward. Will she learn what true faith in Jesus really is? This book is very well written and edited. I enjoyed it immensely! I received a copy of this book as an ARC in return for my honest opinion. Go ahead and read this book, you won't be disappointed!
What a beautiful story! Emma and Samuel have been married for one year and are expecting their first child. Emma loses the child in her seventh month and her faith is severely tested. A page turning story of how Emma and Samuel deal with the loss, their faith and their love. I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
Tracy Fredrychowski's first book of a new series Amish Women of Lawrence County, Emma's story as a young married Amish woman moves the reader through love, tragedy and mourning, faith struggle and forgiveness. I loved this book. I was moved immediately and found it difficult to put down, anxious to go back to it.
Tracy Fredrychowski is an amazing author. In writing Emma’s Amish Faith Tested it is easy to become riveted to the story line and you can’t stop reading. I highly recommend that you read this book to see how Emma and Samuel’s love and faith are tested. I received an advance reader copy (ARC) from the author, however all opinions expressed are mine.
I absolutely loved this book. I was sent Emma's book by the Author. THANK YOU TRACY.. I highly reccomend this book. You will fall in love with Emma and her family. Her Mommi is a riot. I laughed. I cried. I did a few awes. It was so good. I have a new favorite Author. I am excited for the 2nd book in the series
I wasn’t so sure about this book when I started reading, but it’s a beautiful story. I cried with her because the writing was so , I could feel her pain I could feel the feelings she was having. I felt connected, like I could call her up or go knock on her door and hug her and tell her God has never left you, he’s guided it all.