The Amish Author's Christmas

by Ashley Emma

What will happen when an undercover author stays in an Amish home to do research for her next novel—but doesn’t tell her new Amish friends she’s writing about them?

On the outside, Ivy Everwood seems to have it all—money, fame, and a seemingly successful author career. Truthfully, she’s alone and unhappy, and her career is actually about to fall apart. What Ivy needs is inspiration and a new perspective.
After seeing a brochure for Isaiah’s Amish Buggy Rides in Unity, Maine, Ivy knows instantly that’s where she wants to set her next romance novel. Ivy calls to inquire about staying with an Amish family, and she’s stunned when Isaiah Miller invites her to stay with his family.

The Millers have no idea Ivy’s agent wants her to write a novel about them. When Ivy shows up at Isaiah’s house, she doesn’t expect his parents and sisters to welcome her, treat her like family, and ask her to spend Christmas with them since she has no family of her own. As she grows closer to the family--especially Isaiah--guilt eats at her.

She doesn’t expect to feel at home for the first time in her life…or to fall in love.

Will Ivy have the courage to reveal the truth before it gets out on its own?

The Amish Author's Christmas is a new standalone novella with its own happily ever after.

Genres: Amish, Christmas, Romance, Novella, Amish Fiction

121 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 5, 2021

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another new-to-me author! It was fun to watch Ivy’s somewhat misguided attempts to get much needed inspiration for her next novel by tagging along for an Amish Christmas, and of course falling in love with more than just Isaiah. Her faith journey is quite touching, and I appreciated how naturally the author worked that into the story without being preachy or feeling forced. I also enjoyed getting to know Isaiah’s family through Ivy’s eyes – and her through theirs. A lovely story all around!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book in a novella collection which I purchased for myself.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Lynda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ivy Everwood is an author. When she meets with her literary agent, Meg, about her newest book, Ivy is told her writing has grown stale and the publisher won’t touch it. The plot is formulaic. The scenes are repeats of her previous work. Meg won’t even accept a new outline. Meg tells Ivy she needs to get “a new perspective“, a new idea or her contract with the publisher is over.

Ivy knows this wasn’t her best work but …
While getting coffee, she peruses a rack of travel brochures and her eyes light on Isaiah’s Amish Buggy Rides in Unity, Maine. Aruba, Hawaii, et al are not appealing but staying in a “Picturesque Amish Village” is.
Totally different.
Definitely a new perspective.

I wish this were *not* a novella because the idea of an author, a successful but lonely one, as a lead of an Amish book is appealing. To keep it a novella, everything works out easily for our author, Ivy. No hotel/motel/B&B. No problem. Isaiah’s family is thinking about opening a B&B. And so it goes to the end of the novella.

It’s a nice read but do not expect 111 pages; the story itself ends on page 77 or 65%. The rest is descriptions of other Ashley Emma books and the first chapter of “Amish Beauty and the Beast”.

Personally, I dislike books shown to be over 100 pages and have 35% filler. Thus, loss of one star. Loss of the other star is other than the interesting premise, this too was formulaic. Everything was accomplished too easily. It’s not a book I will re-read. Okay, one more “nitpik” — The author is NOT Amish. A better title would be ‘The Author’s Amish Christmas’.

If you are looking for a “sweet”, easy, and quick read, then The Amish Author’s Christmas is for you.

Rating: 3 stars.
Cover rating: Very good and fitting the novella’s plot.

#TheAmishAuthorsChristmas #AshleyEmma #kindleunlimited

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Amish Author’s Christmas by Ashley Emma is a sweet Amish tale. I thought it contained good writing and the story moved along at a steady pace. The characters were relatable and friendly. I enjoyed the descriptions of Unity, Maine. The author really brought the area alive. I can see why people would want to take Amish buggy tours there. I thought the buggy tours were a great idea. I had not heard of them previously nor read about it in an Amish story. I liked the Miller family. They were such a kind family with a deep faith and big hearts. I had to laugh at Ivy’s questions about the Amish and their traditions. She really had to clue about the Amish. I enjoyed watching Ivy change as she spent time with the Miller’s. I did feel the romance between Ivy and Isaiah was a little rushed, but it was sweet. I loved the stories ending. The Amish Author’s Christmas is a story about kindness, community, faith, forgiveness, hope, and love. The Amish Author’s Christmas is a feel-good Amish novella a bevy of baked goods, two sweet sisters, an assertive agent, a pushy publisher, inspiring inspiration, and a cheery Christmas.

[Linda Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivy is an author who lives in New York City and writes full-time. She has managed to make a career in writing, but has lost her inspiration and ability to write interesting novels. Her agent suggests that she take a trip somewhere to gain inspiration for writing again, or she is going to lose her publishing deal.

Ivy happens to pick up a travel brochure that features an Amish tour. Ivy calls the company offering horse-drawn carriage tours and is connected to the owner of the carriage tours, Isaiah Miller. Ivy says she wants to learn about Amish life to help her make a decision as to whether or not she wants to become Amish. Isaiah falls for her lie and invites her to stay with his family in their home for a week while she immerses herself in Amish life.

There are surprises for Ivy that she did not expect as she gains an understanding of what she really wants for her life. This is an original and interesting story featuring a relationship between Ivy and Isaiah with an HEA. I was given an advance copy of the book for posting my honest opinion.

[Maryann Skaritka · Rating 4 out of 5]

When New York author Ivy Everwood deals with writers block her agent encourages her to take a much needed Christmas vacation.
She find the perfect place at an Amish B & B with the Miller Family in Unity, Maine.
I enjoyed getting to know the Miller family. They were warm and welcoming as was the local Amish community. Sisters Laura and Lydia were sweet and inquisitive about Ivy’s Englisch life.
Ivy wants to immerse herself in the Amish culture while secretly planning to write a book about the Millers.
She is also drawn to Isaiah Miller who has secrets of his own.
Hearts and secrets are shared, forgiveness and acceptance are given. The true meaning of Christmas is shared and important life decisions are made.
A sweet short Amish read perfect for the Christmas holidays.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

When author Ivy Everwood travels to Maine Amish country to gain inspiration for her next romance novel, she gains much more than she bargained for! I love the realistic portrayal of the Amish family and how they had a life-changing effect on Ivy’s life. Wonderful characters, a well-written and steadily flowing plot, an inspiring faith journey, and sweet romance combine to make a lovely, entertaining novella that will make you smile. I enjoyed this story very much and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

The amish authors Christmas

This was a very great and captivating book which made it where you couldn't put the book down. The author went to a amish community to get ideals for a story. She wrote truth about the community and showed how much she loved and respected the families in the community.

[Althea Hillier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Conquers All

I love the Amish stories. They are so clean and sincere showing their love for God and respect for the family. This story is no exception. What started out as a deception turned into something amazing. You will be touched by the love this family had for this English girl whose life is truly transformed.

[Glenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice concept that may have been inspired in part by author's own experience. Dissapointed that the story wasn't expanded to include details of more of the day-today events and MCs thoughts leading up to the important plot points within the story. It was read a little like an outline or summary story rather than a fully finished novel. Would enjoy reading more.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book a sweet Amish Romance was an excellent read. I just loved reading sweet romance about the author and the Amish.
I found the book intriguing, romantic, interesting, easy to read. page-turner and so much more.
I recommend this book and hope to read it in print format in the future.

[Gail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Different

An English young woman goes to an Amish community under the pretext that she wants to !earn about Amish life and possibly join a community. A good but short story. It could have been better if more was written between the author's confession and her marriage.

[Bonnie Jarrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love reaches far

As wonderful collection of Amish stories. Each one was different but they all had a story to tell. The author Emma brought so many way in which to get long y our neighbors. She e did a great job of writing.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this short story of Ivy trying to save her career as an author. I'm not sure it's true to Amish life but it is a story so I don't fault the author. I'm glad it has a happily ever after for Ivy & Isaiah.

[Cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivy's home

Ivy's agent tells her that her publisher is tired of formula romance. She needed to find something to change it. Ivy spies an advertisement for buggy rides in Amish country. This could be away to freshen her stories.
Very good story with characters that you'll love

[Debra Torgerson]

Unexpected blessings,

A writer with writers block goes to an Amish community to be inspired. She finds inspiration and a family. Her life is changed forever. Sweet read for young and older women.

[Denise Glisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From One Life to A New One

From the very first page I have enjoyed this book. It's amazing how ones change of scenery and slowing down can open your eyes to new possibilities. Please come and meet Ivy, a foster care child and meet some wonderful, God creating and loving people.

[Joyce Schwartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding herself

I enjoyed reading this book. It was written in a way to understand how the Amish community lives and why they live a simple life. It was interesting how Ivy wrote her story from coming into their lifestyle and learned to embraced it.

[Rita Dail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Amish Christmas Story

This was a sweet story about a young author that didn’t belong anywhere found faith, love, family and a husband to love.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book! It totally drew me in; I felt like I was a fly on the wall watching Ivy and Isaiah!

[Ann Kelleher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet

this was a sweet love story with a twist of anxiety mixed in. I would recommend it to anyone who like Amish love stores

[Marie Buccellato · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute story

[Katrien Geeroms · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is not much suspense in the book, but the story is told lively.

[Vickie Jameson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Story

I chose this book for my monthly book club challenge. It did not disappoint. I enjoy this author's work and look forward to reading more of her books.

[Phylis Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish story

This story is sweet and wholesome full of learning and understanding of the Amish ways and beliefs. Easy to follow and enjoy.

[jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good read

Wonderful hard to put down. Takes you right into the story to feel the love and heartwarming lives of the Amish community.

[Deb Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice read for Christmas.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Author’s Christmas by Ashley Emma
Ivy Everwood walked briskly down the chaotic sidewalk of New York City, avoiding eye contact with every person who passed her.
She pulled her cashmere scarf tighter around her to ward off the biting cold wind, ignoring the bright, twinkling Christmas decorations in every store window. Christmas was definitely not her favorite time of the year. It wasn’t any fun when you had no one to share it with. Ivy opened the coffee shop door and stepped
Christmas was definitely not her favorite time of the year. It wasn’t any fun when you had no one to share it with.
This is Ivy Everwood and Isaiah Miller's story.
“Hi,” a tentative female voice said. “I have kind of a weird question. I’d like to come by and stay in town for a while and try out the Amish lifestyle. And also take some buggy rides, of course.”
“Really?” Isaiah dropped his broom and leaned against the desk. “Why do you want to try out the Amish lifestyle?” This ought to be good.
Just another tourist wanting to escape their life for a while, no doubt.
Isaiah’s Amish Buggy Rides in Unity, Maine, one brochure said, and she picked it up. Escape Your Chaotic Life with Peaceful Buggy Rides Through a Picturesque Amish Village.
Isaiah Miller vigorously swept the floor of his family’s barn, then wiped down the benches where customers sat while waiting for buggy rides.
Isaiah’s Amish Buggy Rides was a fairly new business in Unity, Maine, but it was already flourishing. Not everyone in the church had approved of the new attraction at first, but it brought tourists to the other local Amish businesses as well, including his mother’s bakery and the Unity Community Store down the lane.
I highly recommend reading.
The Amish Author’s Christmas by Ashley Emma is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Ashley Emma.

[Norma Wiegert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read an early copy of Ashley Emma's story 'The Amish Author's Christmas', one of the stories included in the Amish Christmas Miracles Collection' releasing November 10, 2020. This book is a compilation/anthology of 14 different stories by 14 authors. I am anxious to read the rest of the stories! I received an ARC of this story and this is my honest and voluntary review.

Ivy is a writer who lives in New York. She is suffering from writer's block, and it is Christmas time. This would be a good time for a much needed vacation with some rest and relaxation. She decides on a bed and breakfast in Unity, Maine. Isaiah is the son of the owner of the bed and breakfast and Ivy and Isaiah become attracted to each other. During her time in Unity Ivy gets an Idea for a story about the family she is living with. She writes the story without their knowledge. Will this secret destroy Isaiah's love for her? This is another great story by Ashley Emma.

[Chanover55 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivy has had much success as an author but her publisher wants something new from her. Her agent, Meg, urges her to get away & recharge her batteries. By chance Ivy comes across a brochure for Miller's Amish Buggy Rides, calls to see if my chance their is a hotel or B & B in the area. Isaiah, the owner, invites her to stay with his family, who are thinking of turning their home into a B & B. Thus Ivy steps into the Amish world and finds it to her liking. But lies, to protect her, come to light, and threaten the friendships she has made. To make matters worse, she has sent a few chapter of a book proposal to her agent and now Ivy has real problems. Can the Millers forgive her will the reject her or has she found a new home?

[Margaret Fraleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story of Ivy Everwood, an author who has a writer's block.

Her agent suggests she take a vacation to get inspired.

She decides to go to am Amish Community and learn everything about their way of life.

She is welcomed to stay in the home of Ed and Mae. They have two daughters Lydia and Laura and a son Isaiah.

Ivy starts her book and has a couple of chapters in draft form.

The family asked Ivy to stay with them for Christmas and she realizes she cannot continue to book about this family
without their permission.