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The Amish Women of Lawrence County #2

Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored

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Lies and secrets surround a young woman's heart. Can this shame-filled believer salvage her life and find true happiness?

Rebecca Byler is struggling with the truth. While this young Amish woman is determined to push everyone away, Eli Bricker is set on discovering the pain that holds her captive. When Rebecca finds little reassurance from her Old Order's strict ways, she's drawn to Eli's ailing grandmother, Mary, and a letter from her deceased mother.

Still blaming herself for a series of tragedies, Rebecca plans to leave Willow Springs in hopes of saving Eli from God's wrath. But Mary sets a plan in motion to share the love of Jesus with Rebecca and force her hand in marriage to keep both Eli and her from giving up on love.

Can this sharp-tongued woman find the courage to face her past and seek forgiveness from the Almighty?

Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored is the inspirational second book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series of women's fiction novels. If you like spiritual explorations, real-life challenges of emotional bravery, and basking in God's light, then you'll adore Tracy Fredrychowski's exploration of hope.

325 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 12, 2022

254 people are currently reading
1398 people want to read

About the author

Tracy Fredrychowski

36 books360 followers
Go 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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Sunnie.
1,005 reviews47 followers
March 22, 2022
Rebecca's personality is anything other than the typical sweet Amish woman. Her past continues to haunt her as she struggles to not allow others to come to close to her. She is definitely in need of something in her life that will help her chart a better course for her future.
She finds herself caring for an Amish woman whose past also haunts her. The two of them find a common road traveled with secrets that they can't find a way to resolve their pasts. I love the lessons learned, the trust that only God can provide and repentance and forgiving oneself. It's an excellent example of Christian faith and love.

I read this book in one session. It was too good to put down. And there were no slow moments. It was totally captivating. It had me on page one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,838 reviews160 followers
April 12, 2022
This book is so special! There is an intriguing plot that kept me turning the pages, realistic characters that evoked a wide range of emotions, and a profound faith message that tugged at my heartstrings. We all know that God wants us to love our fellow man, but Rebecca Byler made it almost impossible for the people of Willow Springs! As I started reading this story, I was taken aback, because her hateful and self-centered nature was so opposite of Amish dispositions. Then I discovered why she acted that way! Rebecca had secrets that she couldn't share and guilt that wouldn't let go. How could she let anyone get close to her? She had no hope, until God's Plan went to work, and Rebecca discovered true friendship, a reason to hope, and an acceptance that comes from total forgiveness.

It's apparent that author Tracy Fredrychowski has a deep respect for the Amish, and she often writes about the unique aspects of their lifestyle, but in this book, she shares another perspective. I loved how Mary Bricker and her grandson Eli had discovered a deeper awareness of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and shared it with Rebecca when she needed it most. Her life was transformed because gentle Mary knew the damage of keeping secrets, and had discovered, along with Eli, the joy that comes from trust and faith.

Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored is the second book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series, and the ending left me eager to learn what else is brewing in Lawrence County. Is Rebecca's heart truly restored? Will she finally believe that she deserves to be happy, and can she be an example for others?

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Bruce Dinsman.
1,556 reviews3 followers
October 9, 2024
And many more were saved

What a great rendering of the overhaul in the Amish Faith. god is calling his people back and I pray the message of Jesus will reach more of the Old Order before they are surprised by their ending. I trust Anna will figure prominently in the next book?
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,270 reviews
April 6, 2022
If you enjoy Amish fiction filled with flawed characters you will want to read Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored. Rebecca is not the typical Amish young lady as she’s harsh, harbors secrets, and will not allow anyone to get close. Throughout this beautiful tale meet individuals who truly cared and understood what Rebecca needed most in her life. The story is complex with dimensional loving characters who desired to truly follow Biblical teaching with plenty of twists and turns within their lives. I really enjoyed how Rebecca’s mother’s influence in the community before her passing came to life. Fredrychowski weaving of Biblical truths and teaching are gentle and not preachy making this a touching and heartwarming story that readers can relate to.

I received an early e-copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion.
Profile Image for Theresa Himes.
7 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2022
Rebecca harbors painful memories from the past and to hide them, she outwardly is out of sorts and harsh with those around her. The top of her list is Eli, a neighbor she courted five years ago and ended with a lie that involved her brother-in-law. Much to Rebecca’s dismay, Eli’s grandmother needs assistance and Rebecca is sent to help. The distrust and anger continue day in and day out as Eli and Rebecca attempt to keep their differences in check. A very engaging book that is the second In the series, but is able to stand alone if the reader hasn’t read the first book. Tracy Fredrychowski has brought us another engaging look into the lives of the Amish.
(I received an advance reader copy from the author. All opinions are my own.)
877 reviews4 followers
April 17, 2022
Grumpy to grateful

Rebecca is a woman who does not handle criticism well. She lost her first love to bad choices. Eli has to find someone to take care of his aging grandmother. Rebecca is sent by her father to help. So much happens in this book. A must read.
Profile Image for Kristina Anderson.
4,062 reviews82 followers
April 8, 2022
Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored by Tracy Fredrychowski is a story about how God can take a person’s troubled heart and transform it into a loving one with help from the right people. Rebecca pushes those who love her away with her caustic comments. Her father and new stepmother are at their wits end. They are also worried about Rebecca’s twin, Anna who lives in Rebecca’s shadow. Anna goes out of her way to avoid people especially at the twin’s fiber shop. Mary Bricker needs help after a recent medical setback. Taking care of Mary is the last thing Rebecca wishes to do especially since she would have to see Eli, her ex-beau every day. Her father, though, is adamant. Mary wants to help Rebecca during the time she has left. She knows what it is like to live with a secret. Secrets have a way of eating at your soul. Mary wants to help Rebecca find God who will be able to give her forgiveness and help Rebecca forge a new path. Mary hopes she has enough time left to accomplish her task. If not, Mary has an alternate plan, but she knows it will cause an uproar in the lives of two people close to her. I thought Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored was well-written with realistic, developed characters. I liked hearing about the natural dyes the twin’s used on their alpaca fibers. Their shop is a place I would love to visit. I know I would not do well in this Amish community where men rule the roost and the community. It would be impossible to be an individual (unique) in a community where sameness (like all their clothing looking alike) is the normd. Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored is a story that will resonate with many people. My favorite phrase from Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored is, “The truth shall set you free.” Faith is a big element in this book. We learn the importance of accepting Jesus Christ as our Savior and asking his forgiveness. While Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored is the second novel in The Amish Women of Lancaster County series, it can be read as a standalone. I do, though, want to go back and read Emma’s Amish Faith Tested. I am looking forward to reading Anna’s Amish Fear Revealed when it comes out in late summer. Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored is a tender Amish tale with Rebecca’s acerbic tongue, Eli’s gentle heart, Mary’s mission, Anna’s bashfulness, and God’s gentle ways.
Profile Image for Drebbles.
790 reviews9 followers
April 12, 2022
Haunted by some of her past actions, Rebecca Byler has pushed away everyone close to her. Eli Bricker has tried in the past to get close to her but she refused to let him. When Eli’s beloved grandmother Mary becomes ill and asks for Rebecca to nurse her, Eli begins to think he has a second chance with Rebecca. But Rebecca isn’t the only one haunted by her past – Mary has secrets that has torn her family apart. Eli has secrets too – secrets that may ruin any chance of happiness with Rebecca.

“Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored” is a nicely done Amish Romance. I admit that I did not like Rebecca at first – she really did her best to be unlikable (well done by author Tracy Fredrychowski) – but she slowly grew on me as a character. This book was full of surprises – I thought this was going to be a typical romance where a young person befriends an elderly person who shows them the error of their ways but this was far from a typical romance. All of the main characters (Rebecca, Eli, and Mary) have secrets that are haunting them and Fredrychowski does an excellent job of slowly revealing those secrets. While Rebecca’s secret is heartbreaking and it is easy to understand, why she is tormented by it, Mary’s secret is the one that really got to me and lingers with me even long after I have finished the book. Eli’s secret surprised me – it is not what I expect when I read an Amish romance but it certainly got me thinking and it will be interesting to see what happens in the next book in the series. The ending of the book was interesting, while there are some happy endings, there are also some sad moments – Fredrychowski did not wrap up everything in a pretty little bow. I look forward to the next book in the series to see what happens with certain characters.

“Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored” is a nicely done Amish Romance.
1,626 reviews28 followers
April 12, 2022
Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored by Tracy Fredrychowski
Lies and secrets surround a young woman's heart. Can this shame-filled believer salvage her life and find true happiness?
Rebecca Byler is struggling with the truth. While this young Amish woman is determined to push everyone away, Eli Bricker is set on discovering the pain that holds her captive. When Rebecca finds little reassurance from her Old Order's strict ways, she's drawn to Eli's ailing grandmother, Mary, and a letter from her deceased mother.
Still blaming herself for a series of tragedies, Rebecca plans to leave Willow Springs in hopes of saving Eli from God's wrath. But Mary sets a plan in motion to share the love of Jesus with Rebecca and force her hand in marriage to keep both Eli and her from giving up on love.
Can this sharp tongued woman find the courage to face her past and seek forgiveness from the Almighty?
This is Rebecca Byler and Eli Bricker's story.
The rhythmic movement of Rebecca Byler's spinning wheel picked up speed as she thought about her run-in with her younger schwester, Emma.
In all her twenty-three years, she'd never been more aggravated than she was at that moment.
When the roving of alpaca fiber she let slide through her thumb and index finger hit a clump of dark matter, she pulled back and let the draft of yarn fall to the floor.
Eli left his father’s home in Lancaster and moved to Willow Springs to care for his grandmother.
That spoke mountains of truth into Eli’s character.
She wondered why Rebecca or any other young girl in Lawrence County hadn’t noticed.
Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored by Tracy Fredrychowski is a wonderful well written 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.

Profile Image for Cherese Akhavein.
423 reviews
March 13, 2022
Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored by Tracy Fredrychowski is Book 2 in The Women of Lawrence County Series.
Have you ever meet someone that has such a nasty disposition that you wonder why you would or for that matter anyone would want to be around them? In this book you will see how Rebecca and her sour disposition have created trouble not only for her but her family as well. What holds the secret to that negativity? Can the pain of one’s past cause her/ him to form a hard shell of protection in order to save further pain and heartache or what they may perceive to be.
I have come to really enjoy this authors books her writing style leads to compassion and sincerity for all her characters, I have always believed that those who have a tough exterior are those who need that little bit of extra understanding and those who have an underlining pain that is just waiting for the right set of circumstances to draw it out. And in this book you will see that through God’s Grace and understanding, along with true faith everything works together to not only heal a heart and release a hidden past of secrets but it forms a community of true believers.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest opinion and I can honestly say I look forward to everyone of Tracy Fredrychowski’s books as each one brings a new since of well being and spiritual understanding. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Keren Herrera-Lyles.
332 reviews18 followers
March 13, 2022
Always looking forward to a story from Author Tracy and this story was good. I enjoyed reading about Rebecca and Amish girl with a strong attitude. She spoke her mind and sometimes that brought consequences that were not good. And she took them to heart pushing people especially the ones she cared and loved away from her for fear of an awful fate for them. But a young Amish man was the only one that did not give up with the feelings she had for her.

We come along with knowing many characters, Mary, the young Amish man's grandmother. Her past made her understand Rebecca's feelings and know her more than she knew herself.

But when Eli needs help with his grandmother is Rebecca who is called and then that's when little by little her heart starts getting softer. And realizes with Mary's help that she can change and that there is forgiveness for her and all her bad thoughts.

It's a story that you'll follow a young women's belief of rejection to the knowledge of God's love and acceptance, Forgiveness and a bright future.

I was given an ARC to read from the author. All the comments here are my own.
Profile Image for Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read.
1,196 reviews27 followers
April 11, 2022
I love this author’s books because she gives us real-life situations in which her characters experience deep struggles that help us identify with them as individuals. She shows her deep respect for the Amish and their chosen lifestyle, yet she also addresses the serious flaws in their religious beliefs. I thought this book was very well-written and found myself wanting to read “just one more chapter” to find out what was coming next for these characters.

If I had to pick a theme for this book, it would be transformation and redemption. The author does an amazing job of taking her main character, Rebecca, from being a bitter, unhappy young woman to one who found herself looking beyond herself and having compassion for others. As changes come to their Amish community, Rebecca found herself facing some major decisions that have an impact not only on the church, but Rebecca’s own family.

This story is filled with faith, hope, and love. I’m already looking forward to learning more about the wonderful characters in this book.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Nyla Kay.
Author 1 book24 followers
April 19, 2022
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.
208 reviews14 followers
April 12, 2022
“The truth will set you free”

Rebecca is in a prison of her own making. The more she hides her dark secrets, the more they struggle to get out. No one wants to be around the angry, hateful young Amish woman, but God has not left her. He uses circumstances and people around her to show her how to face the truth. And once she does, everything changes and she can finally be free.
This is a wonderful story of love and redemption, freely given at the worst of times. I could not put it down. As the second book in a series, it stands alone very well, but I do recommend reading Emma’s story to get more of the background. Anna’s story is next and I can’t wait! This is good, clean Amish fiction at its best.
*I was given an advance copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Profile Image for Tammy.
Author 6 books23 followers
April 21, 2022
Having lived near an Amish community, it's a breath of fresh air when an author writes Amish stories that are real and truthful for the struggles they face, which aren't always unlike ours.

This story about a young Amish girl named Rebecca shows a side of Amish we don't always hear about. They have their own personalities, just as we do - and Rebecca's is certainly a big one! Her bitterness and rudeness is surprising. But then again, anytime we face someone like that it catches us off guard.

However, Eli sees something others don't. He becomes determined to dig deep and find the real Rebecca.

I recommend this book. It's an encouraging story about transforming a bitter heart and bring it back to joyful and loving.

Disclaimer: I received this book from the author with no expectations in return. The opinions are my own.
1 review
March 11, 2022
This second book series in the Amish women of Lawrence county it's exhilarating to read. It's a great book about a real-life story about life challenges and bravery and lots of gods glory to love. Rebecca Byler finds the courage to help Eli from God's outrage. Rebecca's friend Mary helps her find ways to keep Rebecca's marriage together with the help of Jesus. This Amish book written by Tracy Fredrychowski is astonishing because it gets you intrigued with the story and it wants you to help Rebecca out as I do. It's a cute story and I really enjoy reading it. Thank you Tracy Fredrychowski for publishing this book so we readers can enjoy it. I would like to read more of Tracy Fredrychowski books she's a great book writer.
Profile Image for Michelle Rhoden.
524 reviews17 followers
March 11, 2022
Such a great book with a lot of thought provoking depth to it. I love how the author, Tracy, uses the character Rebecca to show that no matter how hard her heart appears to be, no matter how imperfect she feels she is and no matter what sin she thinks she may have committed that would cause God to turn his back on her, God loves unconditionally. I also enjoyed how Rebecca was put in a situation that she saw first hand Christ truly living inside someone just by their actions and began to follow their example.

I can’t wait to see what Tracy has in store for us with Anna’s story. I was given a copy of this book from the author for my honest review and opinion.
56 reviews3 followers
April 12, 2022
Rebecca's Amish Heart Restored is book 2 in The Women Of Lawrence County series. Rebecca has become so wrapoed up in guilt & pain from her past, that she's ecome a spiteful, sharp tongued young woman. Unable to forgive herself for past transgressions, she's sure no one & especially God, will never forgive them either.

Through two special friends & a series of unusual events, Rebecca confesses her darkest secrets. She comes to a forbidden relationship with Jesus, that melts her hardened heart & brings many changes to her life.

I didnt want to put the book down & read it in one sitting! I just had to know what happened next. Cant wait to read book three!! A must read book & series!
Profile Image for Evelyn Foreman.
723 reviews30 followers
April 12, 2022
Rebecca’s Amish
After living with lies and deceit, distancing herself from everyone she loves and who loves her for so many years, is there any chance Rebecca can or will find forgiveness and peace? As seeds of The Truth are sewn in her heart, how can she leave her Amish heritage and be shunned? Is loving Eli worth the price and pain of letting go of the past? You have to read this book by this amazing author, not just to read a story, but to be pointed to Christ, the true answer, all throughout! I received a copy of this book from the author and even though I was not required to leave a positive review, I simply could not pass up the opportunity!
Profile Image for Donna.
26 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2022
This new book, #2 in the series, is at most times frustrating, yet with glimpses of caring concern for this young Amish woman for whom the book is entitled, Rebecca Byler. I even felt anger at her selfishness, and lack of concern for her twin sister, Anna, and adopted sister, Emma. Rebecca has many in her community trying to help her, as time goes on. But would she feel their love and concern, or hold on to her anger and sefishness?
What this books shows through it's story is how the Amish are as real with the same emotions as those in the world they prefer to shield themselves from.
I was pleased to be accepted as a pre-launch reader of this book, and post my honest views
Profile Image for Dawn.
596 reviews6 followers
April 19, 2022
If I could give this book 10 stars I would. This book will take you through a range of emotions from anger, to sorrow, to encouragement, to happiness. Rebecca's character is strong willed and butts heads with everyone around her. The secrets and lies she carries almost become the end of Rebecca and the relationships around her. Eli's grandma Mary is one who cause Rebecca to see the error of her ways and make amends. Mary know herself the cost.

I receive a copy of this book for free from the author and I am under know obligation to give a positive review. Thank You Tracy for allowing me to read this book.
Profile Image for Barb Beechy.
244 reviews6 followers
March 13, 2022
Rebecca was holding onto lots of secrets in her life, and was miserable... until she started working with her ex boyfriends mom, Mary. What a great turn of events that unfold in this story. This story is about how God can turn a hardened heart, into a loving heart, if the right people are there to help along the way. I love how the group of family members turn people to the lord, and at rhe same time, help Rebecca to know the truth will set her free.. Eli also helped change Rebecca from being mean to loving.. I was given an early copy for my honest opinion..
Profile Image for DianeLikesToRead.
676 reviews5 followers
April 13, 2022
Rebecca is not like any Amish girl I ever read about. She is a bit sassy for her community. However, under that tough exterior is a woman who is struggling with her past. Her father sends her to help at her neighbor’s house and she is reunited with her former flame, Eli Bricker. Through Mary Bricker, Rebecca learns about Jesus, who can heal the broken-hearted.
If you like reading about characters with similar struggles to ours, then this book is for you! I finished it in two days- it was that good!
I want to thank the author for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
361 reviews8 followers
May 16, 2022
Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored - another EXCELLENT book

Book 2 in the series is excellent, as was the first one. It tells of forgiveness which is not always easy, especially forgiving one’s self. And the message of salvation is so clearly stated, as in the first book. I recommend reading these books in order. I look forward to the third one. Tracy Fredrychowski books don’t ever disappoint me.
25 reviews
August 11, 2023
Awesome!

This one really became personal, I have battled years of negativity even after becoming a Christian. Everything Rebecca did to shut people was exactly how I did it, except mine was a generational curse and not stemming from anything in my past. Slowly overt the years God has been changing me for His purpose what that is I am not sure but I know if you are reading this series it will make you crave to more Jesus more.
Profile Image for Patti Sherman.
74 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2022
I was sent a coppy of Rebecca's Amish Heart by the Author.
I so enjoyed Rebecca's Story. The peoples that were in this book were a hoot. I cried. I laughed. I thoroughly loved this book. I highly reccomend this book. I cannot wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you Tracy for the enjoyment
159 reviews4 followers
April 12, 2022
Another great story by Tracy. I love that there are real life situations and real struggles. Secrets are never held forever. Having a relationship with God is the way of life for us and he loves us unconditionally. This story is filled with love,hope, and faith . Looking forward to the next book. I was given this book to read and this is my own personal review of it.
Profile Image for Sheila Lewis-Lorum.
18 reviews
October 6, 2022
Tracy did it again. The second book in the series kept me turning the pages. Rebecca is not unlike a lot of us, keeping secrets that we think can never be forgiven. But our God is the perfecter of forgiveness. Putting the right people in our path to show us the way. We need only be open to His still small voice and be obedient.
Now on to see what Anna is up to these days.
1,095 reviews4 followers
January 30, 2023
A very interesting book

The old order Amish believe in rules the ministers and the bishop have made up. This creates alot of not being able to understand the German Bible. It was nice to see some read the English Bible and find that putting God in control and believing with all your heart was the true way to worship God. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
Profile Image for Julie Brown.
119 reviews14 followers
March 12, 2022
This was an amazing book. I could not put it down. Was full of love, trusting the Lord and letting go of passed sins. It was so wonderful how two women can come together with the same goal in mind to help out one person. I'm happy for Rebecca that she finally opened her eyes and found Jesus!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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