5 or 6 years ago, I read some Beverly Lewis Amish books in a series. I enjoyed them. They were my first exposure to this genre. Now that I am in charge of the library, I try to read some of the fiction books to be familiar with what is available. I am burned out on Bonnet Books. They all seem so similar. An inner conflict between staying with the Amish or leaving for the world, often an Amish lady attracted to an Englischer man. A few times difficulty deciding between two Amish suitors. That sums up most of them.
The Jerry Eicher books were pretty good, though with the stereotypical characters and the formula plot. I hated Wanda Brunstetter’s books. I read a few thinking maybe I had made poor selections since so many of the library users seem to love them. There is no depth to her characters. I find her books shallow and boring.
My sister-in-law recently read Cindy Woodsmall’s Amish books. She suggested that I try them as she found them “different” than the typical Amish fiction. I just finished The Hope Of Refuge (Ada’s House series). I really liked it. There are the usual Amish/Englischer conflicts, but the characters have lots of complexity, and they deal with relationship issues and misunderstandings within the community besides the stereotypical plot. It was not heavy on using the Pennsylvania Dutch, just a few words. Amish beliefs and practices are nicely woven into the story without lengthy passages describing them. I plan to read the second book in this series in the next few weeks.
There are other authors who produce Amish fiction. For example, I haven’t tried any by Linda Byler. Maybe next year after a long sabbatical from her, I will try another Brunstetter. But if it confirms my first impressions, there won’t be a third chance.
What Amish authors have you read? Which do you prefer? Why?
