Winner, an excerpt, and a contest . . .
Happy July!
The temps are hot, the pantry needs restocking again, and the sink needs emptying . . . again, and summertime rolls on. The good news is the neighborhood pool has plenty of water 
Offered in the last blog contest was an autographed copy of When the Soul Mends, to be sent when available.
Our winner is commenter number twenty-three: Julie.
A new contest!
For a chance to win an autographed copy of all three books: When the Heart Cries, When the Morning Comes, and When the Soul Mends just leave a comment below. But before you do, I’d like to share an excerpt from my newsletter that I enjoyed getting to share.
If you’d like to sign up for it, click here: Plain News Newsletter
When you sign up for the newsletter, you’ll receive a welcome letter that has a link to June’s newsletter. Plain News goes out four times a year, is free, and is chocked full of things related to the Amish. The last newsletter had parts one and two of my article “Connecting to the Old Order Amish.” It also had a link for reading the first chapter of When the Soul Mends, tidbits from author Tamera Alexander, and some suggested reads from my editor.
An excerpt from Plain News: A tidbit about Amish life
After a week of sweltering temps, it’s a beautiful day today in Pennsylvania. I know this because Anna [1] called me from her phone shanty and told me so. She’s been busy this week weeding her garden and mowing—all in prep for taking a few days off and going to visit some cousins who live out of state.
To mow the yards, Amish use reel mowers. When living in Maryland as a child, I saw several neighbors use reel mowers to cut their grass.
For Englischers, “living green” is trendy—from recycling everything we can, to using cloth diapers instead of disposable, to avoiding fuel emissions. Much of what society is returning to in order to slow the negative impact on this planet the Amish have never stopped doing.
Today, as I shared with Anna what the “tidbit about Amish life” section in this newsletter would be about, she said that in the spirit of Tom Sawyer, anyone interested in seeing how a reel mower works is welcome to come experience using one on her yards.
And that, my dear readers, is Anna’s sense of humor in a nutshell. She makes me wish I lived next door and not seven hundred miles away!
[1] names have been changed to assure their privacy
For a chance to win an autographed copy of all three Sisters of the Quilt books, just leave a comment below. The contest will continue throughout July.
Bis schpeeder, (til later)
July 3rd, 2008 at 7:39 am
Thank you so much for sharing from your newsletter. I so enjoy reading it!
July 3rd, 2008 at 8:02 am
I developed a love of reading from my favorite aunt, Wanna. She and I have traded books through out the years. Recently we got together and she shared with me the Sister of the Quilt series. I love them! I cannot wait until September. I will be one of the first one’s to buy the book!
Thanks,
July 3rd, 2008 at 8:25 am
I just finished reading the first book and cannot wait to read the second and then third when it comes out. Aside from the story being told, it is so fascinating to learn about the Amish life, since it is rather foreign to me.
July 3rd, 2008 at 10:59 am
Like Erin above, I just finished your first book recently & was just blown away by it. I think of Hannah often & can’t wait to read the second one. I also really like your newsletter; it’s very original in its approach & I think the mix of recipes, Amish notes, & info on other authors as well as yourself is great!
Thanks Cindy!
July 3rd, 2008 at 4:38 pm
I am SO excited for your 3rd book to come out. I can hardly wait for September. If you get any early copies let me know! Please continue to write these stories on the Amish!
July 3rd, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Looking forward to your newsletter. Cannot wait for third book! We need more books like yours!
July 3rd, 2008 at 11:47 pm
I just finished reading the first book that a friend let me borrow. It was great and I can’t wait for her to lend me the second. I love discovering new authors!
July 4th, 2008 at 3:40 am
I have absolutely loved your first two books. I could not put them down when I started reading them, I just had to find out what would happen next. I am so excited to see that the next one will be out soon. I cannot wait! I will be buying it that first day its available! Thank you for great writing. Blessings to you!
July 5th, 2008 at 11:22 am
Thanks for an escape from this crazy, fast pace world. Reading books like this are such an enjoyment and we need more of them. Keep writing!!!
July 5th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
I’ve only minutes ago finished reading “When the Heart Cries”. Tell me–how can I possibly wait for Book 3 to come out???!!!! Agony. Sheer agony. I love stories of the Plain people, which is so much like my own upbringing on a Manitoba farm in the forties. Thanks, Cindy. God bless you as you write more wonderful novels.
Betty
July 5th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
I’m a big fan of Amish fiction and I can’t wait to read your books! My library doesn’t have them, so maybe I’ll be a winner!
I’ll definitely be signing up for the newsletter. Take care!
July 5th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
I absolutely LOVED your first book, When the Heart Cries! I feel so connected to Hannah, and I love following her story. I’m planning on starting the second book, and I can’t wait to see what happens next! Thanks for writing such great, inspirational books!
July 6th, 2008 at 4:12 am
I just finished reading When the Heart Cries, and I loved it. I have always loved reading fiction novels about Amish life. I have read so many that when I saw an Amish girl on the front of the book, I picked it up. Boy, am I glad I did. I am so looking forward to obtaining the next book that I can hardly sleep. I can’t wait to find out what happens with Hannah and Paul. Keep writing and continue to be inspired to write more novels like this one. May Christ bless you and your family in all you do.
July 6th, 2008 at 10:08 am
I’ve really enjoyed the ‘Sisters of the Quilt Series. I like the way it describes the struggles not only the Amish may go through but how it relates to the trials of many families and how people can deal with the issues in their lives. It also shows that although we may lives our lives differently we are all loved by God and have the chance to truely love Him in return. I only read novels with Christian values and content. I am pleased to see that as we trust in the Lord He will bring results that will honour Him.
July 6th, 2008 at 11:57 am
I stumbled into the first book by accident and fell in love with the characters. Also, fell in love with Amish fiction and Had to read the second book. And I have been waiting for the 3rd book to come out for a couple of months now, and I can’t wait ’til it does. Hopefully, it doesn’t stop with this third book so I can continue reading about Hannah, her father, and her family.
July 6th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
I grew up using the reel lawn mower. I was so excited when they finally brought about a catcher so I did not have to rake the grass from the lawn.
I read your first book for Waterbrook Press as a former buyer and Christian retailer who had to retire on disability. I gave them a BIG THUMBS UP!! I wish the marketing was a bit inclusive with you, Brundstetter and Lewis as all of you have your own writing style and write so well.
I am using your books for a Book Club at my church. The women are getting very impatient for the 3rd book.
Bless you in all you do.
Robin
July 6th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
I wanted to thank you for bringing reading back into my life! On vacation, in Lancaster, our home away from home, I purchased your first two books and haven’t been able to put them down. So are looking forward to the next one due in September. I hope that the series continues with maybe other members of the first books; Luke & Mary, Matthew & Elle or maybe Sarah & Jacob!
July 6th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
I have just finished “When the Morning Comes”, and was so engrossed in the lives of all the characters, that I could hardly believe that I would have to wait until Sepember to finish the series. I will be waiting, with baited breath, to be the first one to buy the book. Thanks for writing such an inspiring novel. Such writing comes along very seldom. Thanks again.
July 6th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
The reel lawn mower brings back memories of summer visits to my grandmother’s house.
Looking forward to book #3.
Neva
July 6th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
I was just pointed to your website when talking to a friend about the books we have been reading. I can’t wait to buy yours and get started! I love stories about the Amish and look forward to reading all yours.
Thanks!
Debbie
July 7th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Reading your books let us know more about Amish people,I can’t wait to read what is next.
Looking foward reading the 3rd book
Carmen
July 8th, 2008 at 10:06 am
I absolutely am so excited for the third book, I am just about to open up the second book today! You are such an excellent writer and you inspire me completely! Thanks Cindy for your wonderful outlook on life!
July 8th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Cindy, thank you so much for a new series about the Amish. I have read both of your books and they are great. I can not wait for book #3 and the news letter. Linda Williamson
July 8th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
On one of those sick days, my mother bought “When the Morning Comes” for me as a pick-me-up gift, not knowing it was the second in the series. I read it and absolutely loved it. As soon as I finished reading it, I went to the store to buy the first book. I love reading and learning about the Amish culture so I was really engrossed in these books from the beginning. What I think really captured me, though, was how easy it was to relate to the characters. Now I am anxiously (if not impatiently) awaiting the third.
July 8th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
I am so happy to add you to my list of favorite authors. Amish fiction are #1 on my reading list. My daughters and I cannot read enough of them, as we pass books among us. Thank you for helping us learn about Amish culture.
July 9th, 2008 at 7:57 am
I am hooked on your books. We have a few Amish families moved into our neighborhood and it is interesting learning about their culture. Thank you so much for sharing.
July 9th, 2008 at 8:55 am
I just finished reading “When the Heart Cries” and got online to see if you have any other books out. Thank goodness you do. Can’t wait to get them!
July 9th, 2008 at 11:05 am
September can not get here fast enough. I am so ready for the next book. God Bless You!!
July 9th, 2008 at 11:49 am
It was such a sad week when I found a great book and read it, two days later got the second, loved it and then found the third was not out yet. Just joking, I am waiting patiently for September. These are two of the best books I have ever read and I have passed them aroung my circle and now everyone is waiting for the third. Thanks for a good wholesome series and I hope you have more to come. Norah
July 9th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
As summer quickly flies by me I have written in bold letters on my calendar to be on the lookout for your new book. It will fill the hours when I have to let me children return to school. Even though they are 21 and 15 those first few days of the new school year make me sad because I realize how quickly they are growing up. I love all of your books and this one I’m sure will be a real page turner. God Bless You.
July 10th, 2008 at 7:37 am
I’ve signed up for your newsletter, I loved reading When The Heart Cries. Wonderful book it’s won of my favorites.
July 10th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
I was given “When Cries The Heart” as a christmas gift from a co-worker. I loved the book so much I searched the web until I located your website. I anxiously waited until “When The Morning Comes” was released and purchased it the first time I found it. I can not wait until your third book comes out. These books are so good at capturing your emotions it is hard to put them down. Keep writing, you have a special gift!!
July 10th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Cindy~
I enjoy your writing, and am anxious for the publishing of book #3 to arrive. Also, I am always glad to read your newsletter and learn about what you have been up to.
July 10th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
I have really enjoyed both of Hannah’s books. Can’t wait for the next one. Have not read any others, but will be on the look out for them. Write very, very fast please.
July 10th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
Thank you Cindy for your books. I love to read about the Old Order Amish. I can’t even begin to think of the life decisions that Hannah must make as she returns to her childhood home. I am looking forward to ‘When the Heart Mends’. Keep up the good work. God Bless You!
July 11th, 2008 at 12:40 am
The first two books of Sisters of the Quilt have been an exciting blessing. I was raised Mennonite and left that denomination when I married my non-Mennonite husband, but much of that early influence remains within me. Thank you for using your talents and heart for the Plain life to inspire readers like me. I will be in line for my copy of the third book in September.
July 11th, 2008 at 7:02 am
Two of the best books that I have read in a long time. The characters in these books seem real & do things that any person would do regardless of their religon background. It shows us Englishers another side of life on how another group of people live. I cannot wait until the 3rd book comes along. I really enjoy your books ad PLEASE keep them coming. God Bless.
July 11th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
I have never read any of your books but recently your books have been discussed on a stitching message board when someone asked for a good “Christian” book to read. After visiting your web site and reading your “Tidbit” today I know I would enjoy reading your books especially about the Amish as their lifestyle has always been fascinating to me. Thank you for writing such great books (based on comments I’ve read from others and the write up on the books on your web site). Also thank you for the opportunity to be able to enter this contest and get a taste of reading your books and I wish you continued success in your writings.
Have a great day, Judy
July 12th, 2008 at 12:12 am
I can’t wait for your new book to come out. I am anxious to see how the story ends. You have a way of making me feel like I know these characters personally. Thanks
July 12th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
It is like reading memories from the past as I grew up on the outskirts of an Amish community, fasinated by a religion and culture bound together, working together and living lives centered on God and family. I can’t wait to keep reading your story.
July 12th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
I’ve read When the Heart Cries and When the Morning Comes and I’ve been waiting patiently for the third book. I really enjoy your style of writing and love your caracters. I’ve read alot of amish books from all the other writers and I enjoy yours the most. Tell those publishers to hurry up with that third book!!
July 13th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
I’ve enjoyed the first two books and can’t wait for the third book to come out in September. It is great to have nice christian type books to read. I really feel close to the characters you’ve created. Keep up the good work.
July 14th, 2008 at 1:39 am
I love ,love the first two books and cann’t wait till the third one comes out. These are by far the best books i have read about the amish.It makes you feel so close to the people in the books. God Bless and please keep up the good work.
July 14th, 2008 at 9:03 am
I say this with my husband in mind….it is good the 3rd book will not be out until Septmeber. I have read the first 2 in the series in about 5 days. Every spare moment I have I am reading those books. I feel like I know the people.
I have tried to instill the love to read n my children but they are still young and don’t understand my passion. I love to read because I live someone else’s life for a little bit and Hannah, Sarah, Paul and everyone else can look, smell,gesture and anything else the way I portray them. Isn’t the imagination a wonderful gift from God!
You are an excellent author and I hope you continue to write!
July 14th, 2008 at 11:20 am
Your books sound fantastic. Would like to read them soon.
July 14th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
I just love your books. Like everyone else, I can’t wait for book number 3 to be released. It’s so nice to be able to get some insight into the Amish way of life through your books.
I live in Oxford, PA (about 20 miles from Lancaster) and have some wonderful Amish neighbors. Isreal and his wife bake the most delicious pies and cookies. He brings them to the house when there are extras left over in the evening. He also brings the freshest and tastiest fruits and vegetables. Another Amish neighbor’s cows came to my front lawn and porch for a visit one day. That was quite an experience.
It helps me feel closer to my Amish neighbors to understand more about their way of life and to understand that they experience the same sorts of trials and joys that we “Englishers” do.
Keep up the good work!
July 14th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
I have so enjoyed your books immensly and it has been a great escape from the pressures of single motherhood, busy work and church life. Simple pleasures and joy! What a treasure you are and a fine talent the Lord has blessed you with. Peace and joy to you!
July 15th, 2008 at 12:05 am
Wow you’re books are amazing. It is so nice to read something fresh and different. I love how you include so much insight into the Amish home. They have always intrigued me, and by reading your books I have learned so much. Thanks so much! Like Lisa said above, God has blessed you with such a great talent that will impact many for a long time.
July 15th, 2008 at 10:11 am
I just recently heard about your books from one of the craft groups I belong to and I can’t wait to read them
July 15th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
I just finished reading Book 2, When the Morning Comes, and cannot wait until Book 3 is released to find out what happens. I love learning about the Amish ways in your books. We visit Amish Country in PA very often. Keep up your wonderful writing and may God bless you.
July 15th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
I fell in love with your books!!! I was totally taken in at the moment I started reading the first one.
I can’t hardly wait for the next one to come out.
Keep up your hard work!! You are a great writer!!
July 15th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
I have just finished reading “When the Heart Cries” and oh how I cried. What a great book. I have always been facinated by the Amish life and this book just added some more things that I already knew. Thank you for letting the Lord work through you with the words that need to be written.
God Bless!
July 15th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
I just have gotten done reading When the Morning Comes. I love this story. I cant weight to read the next book. Thank you for Hannah`s story.
July 15th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
I Love, Love, Love your books, and I can’t wait for the next one to come out! I hope you’ll continue writing novels in the future!
July 16th, 2008 at 10:37 am
I gave my sister your 1st two books for her birthday. We share each other’s books and She has just raved about how good they are. She is just finishing the 2nd. one so I will start them real soon. She wanted me to ck and see when the next one was coming out and she was happy to learn that she did not have long to wait. I have read a lot of Amish Books and love their simple life. We are Quakers so we have a little bit of the simiplicity in our blood. When things get rushed and I start to feel the stress during the Christmas holidays I laugh and tell my friends that I am joining the Amish. I love their ways!
Looking forward to starting your books in the next week. Thanks, Betty
July 16th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
I love these books. I think even more than Beverly Lewis’ Amish series. I can’t wait for the conclusion to the series. It’s going to be a long couple of months!
July 16th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
I read both of your books when they first came out and have been anxiously awaiting the third in the series. I grew up in a strict religion very similar to the conservative Mennonites and Amish, it so interesting and exciting to read your books. I live close to an Amish community in IL and respect their way of life.
Thanks for the great books so far and I look forward to the 3rd!!
July 16th, 2008 at 4:08 pm
When the Heart Cries- what a wonderful novel.I could’t put it down. I love to read a book that makes you laugh as well as cry. And cry I did. I can’t wait to get to our Christian Bookstore to find the next one in the series. I look forward to getting book 3 in September. I hope you will have many more books like this in the future.
Thank you & God bless.
July 16th, 2008 at 5:23 pm
We called reeled mowers push mowers when I was a kid and we had one for years after my parents bought their house and couldn’t afford a gas mower. The previous owners had left the push mover behind. I remember my mother cutting the grass every week with it.
July 16th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Dear Cindy: When I began reading your first
book- I couldn’t put it down. Then the second book. I read until midnight at times. Now- I need the third book. ASAP.
I’ll be looking for it every time I am on line or at the Christian Book store.
Thanks – this helps while away the long evenings since my husband passed away 2 years ago.
Sincerely;
Carolyn Wiens
July 16th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
it is so good to be able to read Good Clean books like yours. With so much “ugly” stuff around us it is refreshing to know when you read these books you don’t have to worry about any “ugly stuff”. Look forward to the next installment of the sisters of the quilt series. it will be hard to have to wait until september but wait I will!!!
July 17th, 2008 at 2:09 am
I love reading books about the Amish! A friend of mine loaned me a book from another author and I got hooked. I think I have read all of her books she has out about the Amish. I found another, got one more to read of hers. Then I found yours at a store and fell in love with it. I see now that the other two books are out. I really am looking forward to reading them. I must say that I really enjoyed your writing style! Looking forward to more!
July 17th, 2008 at 7:23 am
I have read the first two books in the Sisters of the Quilt series and eagerly await the third installment! As soon as I started reading the first one, I was so captivated by the characters that I just couldn’t put it down! We have amish people who live near my hometown and I have always thought their lifestyle was interesting. That’s what first got me to reading the amish heritage books. Now I am so glad I have! You write so wonderfully! Thank you for the excellent reading material!
July 17th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
I just love your books… They are fabulous..I just finished the 1st and am just starting the 2nd…I am so glad it is summer because everyday when my kids are in the pool I can read for hours(of course I still have 1 eye on the kids) They are so hard to put down… Thanks for the great writing Keep them coming..
July 17th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
I went to Ohio a couple years ago to Amish country and we stayed for a week in a beautiful b&b. I don’t know that I have ever been on a vacation that I enjoyed anymore than this one. We rode thru the country and stopped at some of the farms and talked with some of the families. It was great and so peaceful. My sister and brother-in-law took me with them and it was wonderful. She has read the first 2 books in this series and is waiting for the 3rd. If I was to win it I would give it to her for she is the one that introduced me to the Amish and the peaceful life that they live. Thanks so much and will be waiting to hear more from you.
July 17th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
I really loved reading your first two books. The charactors seem so real and their conflicts so common to all. I can’t wait to read the next book and fidn out what happens to Hannah, Paul, Luke,mary and the rest. Please don’t stop writing!!
July 17th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
Hi Cindy & everyone who likes to read about the Amish.,
Cindy, I have read your first book and just started reading your 2nd,When The Morning Comes.
You are right up there with the other authors, that write about the Amish, their way of life, and their trials and tribulations.
I recently became friends with an Amish woman, and her family, and will be visiting them in a few days.
From the Amish books we read (I pass them on to my friend), we have picked up many PA dutch words, and use them in our everyday language. When we talk this way around other Amish (many go to Walmart)they look at us, in wonderment.
My friend & I go to a Mennonite church. Did you know the Mennonites came before the Amish?
You have a wonderbaar time reading..Jay?
We both go to a Mennonite church
July 17th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
I would love to have these three book. I already have the first two, and I love the story so much. It takes me into a life I couldn’t imagine having to live and encourages me to find who I am through the things I’ve endured.
July 18th, 2008 at 12:01 am
I love your books! You have become one of my favorite authors! Can’t wait for more!
July 18th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
I have been reading Amish books for about a year now (Wanda Brunstetter and Bevery Lewis) And I’m pleased I’ve found your books now as well. I look forward to getting ‘When The Heart Cries’ from the library and begin reading it! I’ve also signed up for the newsletter
Thanks.
July 18th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
I dearly love reading about the Amish. They have a great lifestyle and loving families. I have enjoyed reading When the Heart Cries and When the Morning Comes. I am looking forward to the third book coming out and know that it will be as good as the first two. I have stayed at a Bed and Breakfast in Amish Country and eaten at one of their homes. It was a great experience.
July 19th, 2008 at 12:36 am
I am a reading fanatic. In fact, for the longest time I debated about even having a TV in my new home because I don’t think that a TV and a Piano and Books can belong in the same room
I compromised and it is in a nice armoire. A friend of mine recommended your books to me and I have been so pleased to find something that is wholesome, has a riveting story line and feeds the soul. So, from an avid reader, school teacher and adict to wholesome, uplifting entertainment and literature — Thank You!
July 21st, 2008 at 5:55 pm
I haven’t gotten to reading your books, but I’m really looking forward to them. By the sounds of things they must be really good. Keep up the great work, and God bless.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Thanks for sharing. I love your books. Cannot wait for book #3. It’s a pride thing for me to know and enjoy other Georgians.
July 21st, 2008 at 10:22 pm
I was going through my Mom’s book collection when I saw your book and started reading it. I just finished the second book and can’t wait until Sept 16th!! You are a wonderful writer and I hope to see more of your books in the future!
July 22nd, 2008 at 12:17 am
Trying to be patient waiting for the next book. Your books are just great and I have read everything by B. Lewis and W. Brunstetter. You are right up there with the best.
July 24th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
I loved the first book and look forward to reading the rest of the series! Thanks for the chance to win!
July 24th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
Hi everyone. I loved both books. I read both books in 2 weeks and I am passing then on to friends. My friends like to read them and then they pass them on to other friends. It is great. We have read all of Beverly Lewis and Wanda Brunstetter books and they are great, but your books are different, they have a different perspective on the Amish life than they do. It is great to be able to enjoy them. I can not wait for the third book in the series to come out. It seems like forever. That is why I came onto you website, to see when the next book comes out. Is this the last of the series?????
July 28th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
I’ve heard so many good things about your books. Please enter me!
July 28th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Have passed on books, both one and two of series “Sister of the Quilt” Anxiously awaiting the third and conclusion. Then — will send them out to waiting friends in all their glory. Thanks
July 28th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
I enjoyed book one and book two very much, and am looking forward to the release of the third. Wouldn’t this series make a wonderful movie! One of my travel dreams is to make a trip to Amish country and see some of the places and people whom you have described so well. It is easy to feel as though you are right there without having to spend so much on gas!!! So, until I get to make that dream a reality, I will keep reading your books, anticipating each one with great pleasure.
July 28th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
I loved reading your first two books. Once I started reading them I couldn’t put them down. If I didn’t have to get up so early to go to work I would have stayed up all night reading. I just found out the 3rd book isn’t out yet and I am so disappointed. I can’t wait until September to find out what Hannah will do.
July 28th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
I absolutely love your books, Mrs. Woodsmall. I cannot wait for the release of When the Soul Mends. Thank you so much for putting out good books for young Christian women to read.
July 29th, 2008 at 12:02 am
I’ve read everything Amish I can get my hands on. As far as fiction goes, though, I HAVE to say I absolutely love your writing style above all others! I just found these two books for the first time and was so happy to find a series I hadn’t read yet.
What drew my attention that you would be a different kind of author to read was not too far into the first book….when Luke and Mary had the accident. In one sentence I’m saddened that Mary is dead and then begin to realize Luke is most likely dead as well (which did make me feel better that he’d not have to live without her). And, then totally surprised and elated that they were both alive and actually made a full recovery (well, unless something happens to Mary later on in delivery????). What an ingenious way to use words!
Keep up the good work and the happy endings!!
July 29th, 2008 at 12:11 am
May I say one more thing??? I also love the way you fold in the use of the Dutch without having the next character answer by ‘explaining’ it in English. The index of words and their meanings is great. A fresh, new way of including the language without dumbing it down.
July 29th, 2008 at 6:13 am
WOW! I love these books. A real “can’t putter down” and so full of emotion. I cried, I laughed and I can’t wait until the next book comes out. Looking foward to hearing the rest of Hannah’s story.
July 29th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
I’ve just finished reading your “When [the Morning] Comes” book on the Amish. Aren’t they beautiful people?!! I have 3 Amish families named Miller living close to me and my kids. We buy baked goods from them, and they are so awesome. Me and my kids love them so much, but we respect their homes, their culture, and most of all their privacy, so we don’t intrude on them or their time. We would like to buy them some gifts,but we don’t know what to get, any helpful hints? We love your books!!!!. Keep writing, as we’ll keep reading and buying them. We love you!!!. Thanks.
Sincerely Yours
Michelle Perry
July 29th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
I would love these books to be honest I’ve never read any of your books but I love amish stories read just about everything near me of Beverly Lewis’s books. I would use some of the words I learned in conversation or in writing just because I liked them and saw them all the time. Please please sign me up and
Denki for such a gut give-away ! !
July 29th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
I picked up the first book in the Sister of the Quilt series and read it over a weekend because I couldn’t put it down. I immediately went out and bought the second book and read it just as fast. September can’t come soon enough. I have shared my books with several people now and they have all received the same enjoyment I have and are just as excited for the third book. Thank you.
July 30th, 2008 at 11:43 am
I have enjoyed all your books so much! I am counting the days until “When the Soul Mends”
Some of my highlights of weekends away have been in Amish communities. It is definately a stress reducer and we could stand to learn some of the ways of “the people.” Please keep up the writing and I will keep reading. God Bless!
July 30th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
I just read the first two books in the Sisters of the Quilt series and I can’t wait for the third to hit the shelves! You are an incredible storyteller and author. I lived near an Amish community in Illinois and I very much appreciate the attention you have paid to making sure their lives and religion are portrayed accurately.
July 30th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
I hungrily read your first two books. I can’t wait for the third to come out. I have always been intrigued about the Amish and wanted to know more about them. Reading your books have been a learning experience as well and enjoyable. Your knowledge enables you to bring their lives to our world. When I read your books, I felt like I their living their life with them. I also find myself telling my husband about your books and sharing little tidbits from them. Thanks for writing these books for us.
July 31st, 2008 at 12:06 am
Cindy,
I never considered myself a reader until I read one of your books. Since then I can’t put them down. I have read When the Heart Cries and When the Morning Comes and was prepared to run right out and buy When the Soul Mends when I found out it wouldn’t be out until September. What a hugh disappointment!!
I became interested in the Amish when I was in college and had to write a term paper on a minority group and I chose the Amish. The interest just grew and grew. I visited Lancaster County and now most of my house is decorated in Amish style. I am a Christian so it is so refreshing to read a Christian book. I am retired,cannot drive,kids are grown and gone,so I have a lot of time on my hands so keep up the good work. The Lord certainly gave you a gift.
Waiting for September,
Kay Arender
July 31st, 2008 at 7:00 am
Love your books! I’ve gotten several friends addicted, too! We are all waiting for the third. My brother married an Amish woman, and is now raising his family in Nappanee, IN, so I always think of my neices and nephew (all teenagers!) when I read your books.
July 31st, 2008 at 4:00 pm
All the ladies from the Gordonsville Public Library in Gordonsville, TN send their love! I am the librarian at our small town small library… But no matter how small the library (or budget) is there will always be PLENTY of room for Cindy Woodsmall and her books! I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the third book… can’t somebody do something to speed up the release, lol!!!!
Looking forward to the End of Summer Now
Lauren Greenwood
July 31st, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Dear Cindy, I just finished reading “When the Heart Cries” and I can’t begin to tell you how much I loved it. I’ve never read any books about the Amish before and I cannot wait to read more. So I thank you so very much for introducing me to your beautifully written insight of the Amish life style.
July 31st, 2008 at 6:16 pm
I’ve enjoyed reading your books so much! Please keep up the good writting! I love Hannah and Martin together and really hope that they’ll stay together.
July 31st, 2008 at 10:43 pm
I just love your books. I can not wait till the new book comes out.
July 31st, 2008 at 11:18 pm
I love your books. I can’t wait to read the last one!
August 1st, 2008 at 8:41 pm
I bought your first book, When the Heart Cries, at a gas station in Iowa outside of Cedar Rapids. I was on a few hour drive and it was my friend’s turn to drive – I wanted something to read. I read the first few chapters, and when Hannah was violated, I cried and sobbed for the rest of the drive. I put the book down, and looked at it every day for 6 whole months before I could pick it up again! Then, I couldn’t put it down! I was so excited to learn there was more to her story! (I apologize for yelling at you when I thought that was the very end
I am counting down the days until When the Soul Mends is released – 46 after today!! Thank you so much for sharing all this with us. I recommend it to every person I know!
August 1st, 2008 at 10:23 pm
Just wanted to say thank you for giving us readers more information about the amish with your newletter I have forward your site onto several of my friends and family as I did with your books You received lots of praise about both. My mom said I didn’t need to read your first book because it was a series and it was going to leave me wanting more and boy did it so when the second one came I read the first one all over again and it was as good the second time as it was the first I can’t wait to get the third book.
August 2nd, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Thank you for information about the Amish, I look forward to series #3 when it comes out. It takes me awhile to read as I have a bum eye (hole in the iris) but read several times a day (am retired)even if it is only a few pages at a time.
August 3rd, 2008 at 4:05 pm
As a former school teacher who loves to teach reading to middle grades, I found myself predicting what was going to “happen next” at the end of WHEN THE MORNING COMES. I am torn! Is September here yet?
August 4th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
My husband purchased your first book as a gift for my birthday. As soon as I started reading it, I began searching for the second book because I knew I was going to want to know more. Then, upon finishing the second book, I was left wanting to know the rest of the story! I am glad to see the release date is coming up very soon. I can’t wait!
August 4th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Hi I just want to say I love your books as a teengager I feel that the book was so inspiring and that I love the fact how a girl from nothing is getting it all, and I cannot wait for September to come so I can go get the third book.
August 4th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Love your books and eagerly waiting the new arrival of book 3. I live among the amish and so it’s so easy to relate to your writings when you really know these people and their simple ways of life. It always gives me more of a perspective of how my life is way to complicated at times.
August 4th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
I am now living in Florida, and I lived in New Jersey, most of my life, I visited the Lancaster area 3-4 times a year because I just find the history so facinating. Your book made me feel like I was right there in Hannah’s world. Made me feel like I was home. Your writing is so right on the mark of the amish times in todays world. You have done wonderful writing keep it up. thanks
August 4th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
First of all I have to say, your books are wonderful.
My younger sister gave me the first to the series in March of 2007 and informed me that they were a series of three, so naturally I picked it up right away and flew threw it, well unbeknownst to me your 2nd novel had not even hit the shelf yet… I was thoroughly excited and disappointed all at the same time, I immediately started to count down the days to the next novel, when finally I could see the end in sight you announced that it would be another year until the next one (the third and final) so now I am again counting down the days until I can get my hands on your wonderful novel (I have yet to buy it because I wanted to buy them all at the same time). Again thank you for your hard work and dedication to putting your talent on paper for all of us who love the stories but don’t have the imagination or ability to put pen to paper so effortlessly.
Again Many thanks
Simona Walters
August 4th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Thank you! I am so thankful for an author who writes great stories and yet is able to keep it healthy for my soul!!! I am looking forward to the next one!
August 5th, 2008 at 11:28 pm
I have read both When the Heart Cries and When the Morning Comes and can’t wait until When the Soul Mends comes out next month. These are wonderful stories. I enjoy them because as a little girl I grew up in Pa. Dutch country around the Amish and Mennonites. I admire their way of life.