PA Dutch Words and a Contest
In July, while at the International Christian Retail Show in Orlando, my publisher told me that my three books in the Sisters of the Quilt series will be coming out in audio format. I was THRILLED. It’s something many readers have asked me about. The publisher mentioned that the narrator would contact me in a few weeks so we could discuss correct pronunciation of some of the Pennsylvania Dutch words in the book.
Um . . . I don’t actually speak the language. I work really hard to get it written correctly. I’m blessed with three things that make me able to write the Pennsylvania Dutch words.
One, I have an Old Order Amish friend who’s willing to make sure each character is saying the correct turn of phrase.
Two, I have a very rare copy of a Pennsylvania German dictionary.
And three, I work with a woman who has taught the language to college Englischers for years. She covers the grammar and usage part, because speaking a language and being able to spell the words correctly are vastly different from writing something grammatically correct.
A week after I heard the news about my audio book, I received an e-mail stating that the narrator would be JILL SHELLABARGER, Christian author and the actress who played Carol in the NBC TV series Chicago Story. She also played Amanda White in the audio drama series based on the Left Behind books. She is a fabulous voice actor. My excitement soared!
She and I talked on the phone, and I was blessed to be able to put her in contact with an Amish woman who speaks the language fluently. I sent Anna* an overnight package with all three glossaries.
A few days later, Jill contacted me about a song Hannah sings in book one. She asked if I knew the tune that went to it.
The Old Order Amish sing a cappella, so the book I had taken the song from doesn’t show any musical notes. However, I know the tune of that song for Englischers. It’s in every hymnal I’ve ever seen. But because the Amish don’t use written music, I didn’t know how it would be sung by the Amish today. And since the song was written more than two hundred years ago, I thought it likely that the tune would be different now from when it was originally incorporated into their worship.
Thankfully, all this back-and-forth among me, my Old Order Amish friends, and Oasis Audio took place during the summer, because I try to avoid calling a phone shanty in winter. We think it’s interruptive to get a phone call during a movie. What if we had to don hats, coats, and boots and then shiver in the snow while talking on the phone? EGAD!
I called Anna’s phone shanty and left a message, knowing that her husband checks the phone out near the barn every day or two. When I heard back from her, I shared my predicament. She assured me she’d find the song, memorize the tune for it, and speak to Jill within the week.
You know, I’d hate to have to try to sing a song for a stranger on the phone. But as always, Anna came through for me. Now everyone who purchases the audio version will get to hear Jill Shellabarger sing as Hannah just the way Anna sang the song to her via phone. What a blessing!
*Anna is the name I use for all my female Old Order Amish friends. It gives them double privacy because I use the same pseudonym for several people.
Contest News:
A winner has been drawn randomly from the last blog entry. Commenter number 52, Jordan, will receive an autographed copy of each book in the Sisters of the Quilt series. Jordan’s comment for her contest entry said:
My sister loves your books, and it would be awesome if I could get these [the Sisters of the Quilt series, autographed] for her because she will not shut up about the third book and it’s getting on my nerves. So enter me, please.
Okay, Jordan, we’ve done our part to make your sister shut up. Now answer the e-mail I sent a few days ago by sending me your postal address. The books await you . . . uh . . . your sister. 
It’s time for another contest!
For a chance to win an autographed copy of each book in the Sisters of the Quilt series, all you need to do is leave a comment on this blog. You can share your thoughts or simply post “enter me.” This contest will last approximately two weeks. Anyone who entered the last contest after the drawing took place (that’s commenters 85 to 94 on “Winner, a Contest, and Detasseling”) will be moved to this contest. A winner will be drawn in approximately two weeks.
August 29th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
Well, leave it to me. I have all the ladies at our small town library hooked on the series. Now, it’s a scramble to see who gets to read the third book first when it finally arrives. Can’t wait… but hopefully I can win the autographed ones so I will have the biggest bragging rights!!!
August 29th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
Please enter me in your contest. I would love to win all three books and have them autographed too. i have borrowed the books from my local library to read. I loved the first two books and can’t wait to read the third one. I have loved following Hannah.
August 29th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Hey Cindy! Please enter me!! (again) I’m dying to get the third book and I loved the first two. I made the mistake of getting the first one from the library and I keep kicking myself because I should have just bought it. I would go and buy it too, if I didn’t have husband book buying regulations. *sigh* The things us wives have to put up with in rules… But I’m not limited on the contests I can enter. So here I am! Sign me up!
August 30th, 2008 at 6:29 am
Cindy, I have soooo enjoyed reading your first two books! I am eagerly awaiting the third! I have read most everything amish, I always said I wanted to be an amish mans wife, since I was a teenager and took my first trip to shipshawana.
Living vicariously through your books! Lisa S
August 30th, 2008 at 8:07 am
CINDY, REALLY ENJOYED WHEN THE HEART CRIES EVEN THOUGH IT MADE ME CRY, COULDN’T PUT THE BOOK DOWN. TRIED TO COOK AND READ AT THE SAME TIME.THEN WITH WHEN THE MORNING COMES I WAS THE SAME. CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK TO SEE HOW THINGS TURN OUT WITH HANNAH.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:08 am
I agree with Becky #7, [#7 on Winner, a contest, and detasseling]Your books need to made into a movie the way they did Janette Oaks books. I love everyone of those movies in the series. Maybe we can all keep writing asking for it and they will do that. I have read the first one and waiting to get the second one in the mail from Crossings. You are a very gifted writer. Keep up your wonderful work and we will keep looking for them.
God Bless
August 30th, 2008 at 8:10 am
Please enter me in this contest!! I read the first 2 books, & can’t wait to read the third!!
August 30th, 2008 at 8:12 am
Hi, I wanted to write I read both books couldnt put them down. I cant wait to get number 3 ,I generally read bevery lewis books, but something about the cover drawn me to your books. Which I am very thankful for now. I am an old country girl and in where I grew up there are many amish family moveing to the area now. In western new york, which makes me happy, when I see the families I think of the books I read and some how I feel close to them.
Please continue to write your books are inspiring, .
August 30th, 2008 at 8:13 am
I just purchased your first 2 books,(When the Heart Cries, and When Morning Comes). I read the first one day and the second the next day. I can’t wait until your next book comes out.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:14 am
I love to read about the amish! I also cherish signed books. It would never enter my mind to ask a “celebrity” for an autograph! Reading is my passion and I enjoy all your series. Thank you for taking the time to spend learning about the amish and sharing your stories with us.
Jayne
August 30th, 2008 at 8:15 am
Enjoyed the first 2 books and can’t wait to get the 3rd. When reading your books it is just like being back in the Amish country.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:15 am
I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!! My favorite one was When the Morning Comes. I’m happy that my close friend got an autographed copy of it from you at the CBA conference in Florida. I thank God almighty for blessing you with the talent to write and show his loving mercy through your books! PRAISE GOD
AND GOD BLESS YOU!!
August 30th, 2008 at 8:16 am
How very special your books are. Thank you for sharing. Sept. 16 seems so far away. I am looking forward to “When the Soul Mends”. In this stressful world of ours it is so nice to be able to find relaxation and enjoyment in reading your books. Thanks again.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:17 am
Cindy I think your books were wonderful, My mother gave them to me to read and I couldn’t but the down I would love to win an autographed copy of each of the books, I want the 3rd one so bad, I can’t wait for it to come out. Thanks again for such a wonderful series of books.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:17 am
I love your writing I cant wait to get home from work just to read the next chapter, I have told all the girls at work about how good your books are, also told our local bookstore they need to get your books and I checked the other day and there your books were. Looking forward to your new one in September.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:19 am
Hi, Cindy!
I have to say that I was hooked from Book 1! I was so impressed with your writing style and Hannah’s story. I am looking forward to Book 3 — and have been talking about it for months to my husband! I can’t decide which way I want Hannah to step — and I can’t wait to find out how her story ends! Thanks for sharing with us!
August 30th, 2008 at 8:20 am
i just loved your 1st book. i couldn’t put it down. your book, with the real problems like rape, have not been in the other amish books i have read. i just got your 2nd book today and couldn’t wait to get home so i could start it. i got on this site to see when the next one will be out. thank you so much, l love reading about the amish and their way of life.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:21 am
Cindy,
After seeing your comment about being sick and under a deadline, [Winner, a contest, and detasseling] I prayed immediately that God would heal you quickly, give you creative insight and continue blessing your ability to share this story. I am in full-time ministry too and know sometimes God has to slow us down with sickness because we drive ourselves so hard. We have family members with ongoing mental problems and addictions and it helps to read how we can help even when they don’t want or accept it. As we travel, you help me slow down my hectic pace and be refreshed. Maybe I won’t have to be slowed by sickness as much because your excellent writing makes me want to find moments just for me to read and rest. Thank you!
August 30th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
I’m just waiting for the third release, it would be wonderful to win it here! please enter me!
August 30th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Please enter me in the contest. I love to read and can’t wait for more.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:38 pm
My friend got me hooked on your book, It has been along time since I have read a book so quickly. The moment I started reading the first book I couldn’t put it down then I would have to run out and get the next one. I am trying to wait patiently for the next one to come out. I would love to win. Ever since I started to read this series I have become so interested in the Amish and learning more about them. I have gotten my Mom hooked on the series and she keeps asking me when the next one comes out. Usually I go out and get the book read it first then give it to her, So it would be wonderful if I could give her her own copie for her birthday that is coming up, she would love it.
August 30th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
Haven’t gotten the chance to read the books, but i would love to. My mom really enjoys your books, but there is a long line of people wating for them at the library, so this would be the perfect chance to win your books. please enter my name in the draw. thanks.
August 31st, 2008 at 7:17 am
Great books! I’ve had the third one on preorder for several months now.
August 31st, 2008 at 9:30 am
All I have to say is that I absolutly loved the first two books and can’t wait for the third one! I hope that our school library can get it in there fast enough, if so you can be sure that I will be the first one to check it out! I love the twists and turns around every corner. Hannah’s journey has been uplifting and encouraging to me and I will be anxiously waiting to know how it will turn out!
August 31st, 2008 at 2:03 pm
I litterally just finished book two not 10 minutes ago. My mom told me about them a few weeks ago and was on the waiting list at the library. I saw that book 3 was still on order so decided to check out your site and see when book 3 would be ready. I can’t believe I will have to wait 16 days and however long it takes 4 people ahead of me on the list at the library, probably not long since they are soooooo good. My mom is also waiting to hear what happens next, since she just recently headed back to Guinea, West Africa as a missionary. I would love to be entered into this contest! It probably wouldn’t take long to read #3 and send it to her=) I know we are both looking forward to not only book 3 but other future works of yours!!
August 31st, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Cindy,
I have just bought your fist two books of Sister of the Quilt and finished book 1 and am ready to start book 2. Our public library was flooded in June along with our entire downtown and many homes. I miss the library and have resorted to waiting for new books to appear at the store or am buying them online. I would love to have this series autographed, not for me, but to give away next June at a women’s retreat my church is hosting.
September 1st, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Cindy,
I must admit I’m a big fan of Beverly Lewis and of amish books in general. My cousin gave my recently retired mom a bag of books she had read and in the bag I found your first two books in the Sisters of the Quilt series. I could not put the first book down, and being just halfway through When the Morning Comes, I’m already panicking about how and when I can get the third book. I checked your website and am assuming the third book will be published soon. Whether I win your three autographed copies or not, I will definitely be buying the third book, as well as any other books I can find that you may have written. With the way the world is today, it is wonderful to be able to retreat with one of your books and “leave the cares of the world behind.” With a full-time job, a husband and an 11 year old son with ADHD, I don’t get much time for myself. However, I can dive into one of your books and block out everything around me…if only for 30 minutes at a time. This is one luxury I’m going to make sure I have time for!!! I look forward to many more books written by you!! God Bless You!!
September 1st, 2008 at 5:44 pm
It has been a long wait for book number 3! I love your books and have wanted to find a way to tell you how talented you are. Thank you for providing books that are chaste! I would love to win the contest!
September 1st, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Mrs.Woodsmall I just wanted tp say that I love your books and that the are really inspiring.
September 1st, 2008 at 11:41 pm
Your books are awesome! I just moved to Duncannon PA where my husband is a pastor! Some ladies of the church gave me your first two books and I just finished the second one minutes ago a ran to the computer to see when the next one comes out. I can’t wait to see where Hannah ends up, and can’t wait to read more of your books!
Blessings!!
September 2nd, 2008 at 12:41 am
Cindy,
I never considered myself a reader until I became disabled by fibromyalgia and arthritis and had to stop my career as a psychiatric social worker. My sister got me started reading your books because she knows how much I love the Amish and value their lifestyle choices. I would love to win the autographed copies of the books and give them to her for her birthday in October. Your books have brought me out of a depression and have given me my life back. I can’t wait until the thrid one comes out. Thanks to my sister and your writings, I now have something to look forward to.
Thanks, Kay Arender
September 2nd, 2008 at 4:45 am
I’ve been hooked on Amish & Mennonite life since I first study about them in school (I’m in my 60’s). I keep checking out new Christian Authors that write on the subject. Each book gives a person so much to think about. Your two books are great and looking forward to when our State Library System get’s the 3rd. I would be honored to present the contest prize to my local library.
September 2nd, 2008 at 10:43 am
I can not wait till the audio books come out. I will get them for my grandmother. She will love them! I hope to see ya at Lifeway in September! KEEP ON WRITING!!!
~God Bless!~ Kim Chapman
September 2nd, 2008 at 10:50 am
Puh-lease enter me into your contest…:~) Can’t wait to read the last book in the series…
September 2nd, 2008 at 12:16 pm
I loved your first two books and can’t wait to read the 3rd one ! I’m very impressed with your books.
Blessings,
Lee
September 2nd, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Cindy please enter me in the contest…I picked up the first book in the series about a year ago. It was one of the featured books in the store I walked into. It was very different then the books I usually read which is mainly the trashy romance novels. When the heart cries caught my attention because I live very close to PA Dutch Country, and have grown up going to Amish run stores. After reading the book I was hooked. I picked up the second book this past spring, and became engrossed in it, finishing it in a little over a day. I even got my mom hooked on the series and we are both impatiently waiting for the final book in the series. Thank you so much for turning me on to another genre of books.
Please keep writing, you are great!
God Bless~Amanda
September 2nd, 2008 at 2:06 pm
Please enter me! Someone gave my Granny book one for Christmas in 2006 and now the entire family is hooked! I gave her book two for her birthday last year. We can’t wait for book three to come out soon!!
September 2nd, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Please enter me in the contest. I read When the Heart Cries in 2 days.. just couldn’t put the book down. I immediately went back to the library to get When the Morning Comes, and loved it. Can’t wait to get the 3rd book to see how the story ends.
September 2nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Love this series and can’t wait for the next book! Please enter me!! Thanks.
September 2nd, 2008 at 7:28 pm
I would love to be entered in your contest! Your writings amaze me. I love to read, and can not wait for the new book to be released…to win it would be icing on the cake!
September 2nd, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Found the first book randomly at the library and as soon as I finished it went out and bought the second! Love them, and so does my neighbor — we can’t wait for #3. Please enter me!
Thanks!
September 2nd, 2008 at 10:48 pm
I love your books, I’ve been waiting months for your 3rd book, I forget a lot of things but I haven’t forgot when your 3rd book comes out. I was never a reader until I started reading your books, I have read a few books from different authors, but get the most enjoyment out of yours! They GREAT!!
September 3rd, 2008 at 6:03 am
Waiting for new book to appear.
September 3rd, 2008 at 12:09 pm
Loved the other two books!! Can’t wait to see what’s coming next in the 3rd. Came to the site today to find out the release date. So glad it is soon. Keep more coming. Thanks!
September 3rd, 2008 at 12:28 pm
I just read your first book and finished in one day I really like how you describe things. I will go and get the second book today. Reading is a thing I like best and am always thankful to find a new author. [Soon] your third book is out so I will get both 2 and 3 of the sisters of the Quilt. Sign me up for your contest. I can pass on the ones I bought and keep the signed ones. Thanks for writing.
September 3rd, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Reading has not been a top priority for me, but the first two book were wonderful and I am patiently waiting for the third. Great books
September 3rd, 2008 at 2:12 pm
I received my copy of When the [Soul] Mends in the mail a few weeks ago. Had to force myself to wait to read it until I finished the others that I was reading.
Don’t want to give anything away, but the book was as amazing as the first two!! It was really hard to put it down this past weekend while camping.
September 3rd, 2008 at 6:14 pm
My mother-in-law gave me a copy of the first book to read, and I was HOOKED! I ran out promptly and purchased the second book…but it’s been so hard waiting on the 3rd book to be released!!! My mother-in-law and I have both finished the first two books, and I’ve got book number 3 on pre-order. I would love to have the autographed copies, though. I’m now an official Cindy Woodsmall fan!!! Great series that I can’t wait to finish!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 3rd, 2008 at 10:24 pm
Hi Cindy,
I have waited months for your 3rd book and am thrilled it is coming out this month. Yipeeeeeeeee!!!! I do hope Hannah returns to Martin and his two children, even though I do love the Amish. I love reading Amish books, but you are far my favorite Amish Author. I hope you write many more in the future.
Finally, if anyone reads this before 9/5 please watch the CBS, NBC, ABC joint special–Standup2cancer on behalf of so many suffering families nationwide.
September 3rd, 2008 at 10:50 pm
Please enter me in the contest for these books. I absolutely loved the first two and can not wait for the third to come out. As soon as I finished the first book I HAD to read the second and have been waiting with lots of anticipation to read the third book.
September 3rd, 2008 at 11:14 pm
My local librarian recommended your books to me because she knows that I love to read about the Amish. I think I like reading about the Amish so much because I crave a simpler life-style and can’t have it so I read about it. I loved your books and can hardly wait for the third one to come out. I can’t wait to see what happens to Hannah in the end and wonder which way she will choose. I am counting the days. The Lord has given you a great talent in writing and I am glad you are using it. You are blessed and are a blessing to those who read your books. I love your writing style. It keeps me wanting more. Thank you so much. I am hoping that I win the set of three books.
September 4th, 2008 at 8:57 am
As I read through the books you’ve written, I can relate to them so well. I feel like I am there…or they are here. I live in the country right in the middle of an Amish/Mennonite community here in Tennessee and enjoy the friendships I have with my Amish and Mennonite friends. As I read the novels, I picture all of Hannah’s life taking place right before my eyes. I don’t know of a lot of the problems the Amish have in their families, but when I see a teenage girl or a teenage guy I always wonder if they are a “Hannah” or a “Paul” or even a “Luke and Mary.”
I heard people say that reading can take you anywhere. Well, your novels have given me a sense of being right in the middle of all of Hannah’s drama.
Thanks and please enter me in the drawing.
Sincerely,
Amanda
September 4th, 2008 at 10:09 am
Cindy, Please enter me in your contest and thanks for your books! I hope you write many more!
September 4th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
I live to read! When I found your books I devoured them both! I bought them after getting them at the library and have requested they purchase your 3rd one. I also told all my friends how wonderful they are and each time I go to our half price book store and find you there I buy all the copies they have and give them out. You are the BEST of the Amish writers! What a talent you have for writing! God has blessed you and what a blessing I have gotten reading them. Thank you so much! Please enter me in your drawing.
September 4th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
Hello,
Cindy your storytelling is truly an art. I appreciate the way you make the reader feel your characters emotions. The twist and turns in the plot are so much like everyday life. Thank you for the work you do. I hope the third in the series is not the last. Please enter me, and God Bless!
September 4th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Your books are just amazing! I have enjoyed the first two books and I have just placed and order for the third book at my Family Christian Bookstore here in Georgetown, Texas. But hey it would be wonderful to get a signed copy (something that I have never done or had)that would just be a blessing. Please enter me.
Thanks - Angie
September 5th, 2008 at 11:14 am
Cindy
Thank you so much for your books. They are the first that I feel show the Amish as being so much like us, with issues in the family and struggle with secrects so often kept from others. Can not wait for the next book.
September 5th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
It’s so refreshing to find new writers portraying the Amish faith and their beliefs written so beautifully. Whenever I needed to get away from this “English world”, I thoroughly enjoyed picking up your first two books and am anxiously awaiting your third, and hopefully many more series to come. Thank you.
September 5th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I just read When the Heart Cries. That was amazing. I could not put it down and finished it in a day. Can’t wait to get my hands on books two and three. I recently returned from a trip to Lancaster and became facinated with the Amish and Mennonite way of life. This was an incredible way of learning more about them without feeling like I was intruding. Thank you for the expeience.
September 5th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Please enter me in the contest. I’m looking forward to reading about Hannah’s decision, and I want to give the last book to our library to complete the trilogy so others can check it out, too. Christian fiction is very popular at our little library, and I know people will enjoy this series.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
I love your Books…. Me and my mom enjoy sharing quilts and books!!!! We have read almost evey book!!! We would love to have an autographed copy to add to our book shelves!!!! Keep on writing!!!
September 5th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
I simply loved the other two books and can’t wait to read the third. I have been waiting impatiently. Thank you for your books. They are a blessing.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
I so enjoyed your first two books and waiting for last of the series. I read all and any Amish books that I find in the stores. In your books, I felt like I was right there and a part of one of the characters. You make it so interesting. I always ask if there are new books by you when ever I go to the Christian book store. Thank you for sharing your talent with us through your writing s. Please enter me in the contest for the autographed books. Bunny Quinn
September 5th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
Please Enter me.
I will give the first two books I have already to someone.
I am really wanting to read the third book bad.
September 6th, 2008 at 1:15 am
I just finished book two and I can’t stand it.! You left me hanging, big time. At least I didn’t finish until now because I won’t have to wait long for book three. My sister and I read all the Amish series by Beverly Lewis, Wanda Brunstetter, and now you. I love their books as well, but your seem to satisfy my longing for a good romance novel a little more. I am fascinated by and sometimes jealous of the Amish. I long for a simpler life and hope that we as Christians can be more like the Amish and help one another sacrificially and make the mundane tasks of life more enjoyable by sharing the workload. Keep writing! Quickly!!!! I hope I win the contest!!! I’ll share them with my sister.
September 6th, 2008 at 6:53 am
I never thought I would find another author that I liked as much as Beverly Lewis when it came to books about the Amish and their lives. Well, I was wrong!!! Cindy, you are an awesome write! I’ve got 3 ladies hooked to your books, too. We are all anxiously awaiting the 3rd book to this series, and can’t wait. Keep up the writing…you have 4 new fans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 6th, 2008 at 11:49 am
Hello Cindy …,
I grew up in Wayne County , Ohio and now living in So. California I crave the peaceful tranquility of the farm country I loved. I found reading your book brought me ‘home’ in heart and I am anticipating reading the 3rd book
I feel like I know Hannah and Paul . I lived a similiar situation.
Please enter me in the contest .
Heart towards Home. ~ Karen
September 6th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Dear Cindy
From all the books I have ever read about Amish, yours are by far the best.I have never read anything like it before. I really cant wait to get the third book, to find out what happens to Hannah. I know that my mother would love to receive three autographed books… She absolutely loved them and can’t wait for me to get the next one!!! She is always the first one to read my new books, sometimes even before I could think about reading them. I think she would be flattered, if she would receive these three books autographed.
We have never found such good books before.
September 6th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Dear Cindy,
I am so excited for your third book in this series. I must tell you that I never read a book until I read the back to your book When the Heart Cries at Walmart. I could not imagine what could happen to a young Amish girl that would be so tragic. It caught my attention and I could not put it down. Now I have a book on Amish fiction on the go all the time, I don’t read anything else. We live not far from Lancaster and have visited many times. I’m really interested the Amish and your books allow me to learn about them and there way of life.
Thank you so much!
September 6th, 2008 at 10:39 pm
I love your books and cannot wait to read book 3. Ithink your story of hannah is wonderbaar. Can’t wait to find out what happens. Danke, Marianne
September 7th, 2008 at 1:10 am
I’m in! Can’t wait to read your book. Not too much longer!:)
Thanks,
September 7th, 2008 at 7:54 am
Dear Cindy,
A friend of mine at work gave me my first book by you to read while she read the second in the series. Now I have read the second and am excited to read the third. Only a few more weeks to go…can’t wait. My friend and I are great fans. She lost her husband this past May and then in July found out she has some kind of infection which is leaving holes in her stomach. She is in such pain as they try to figure out what this is since it is not responding to treatment very fast. She still comes to work and does not complain even when you know she is in pain. I would love to present her with these books..although she would probably give them back to me to keep…that is how she is, very generous.
September 7th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Hi Cindy. I love these books!! I bought them on a whim, and I’m hooked! I can’t wait untill the third one come’s out! Please sign me up for your contest. Thanks!
September 7th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Hello Cindy,
One of my favorite things to do is heading out to “Amish Country” and being reminded of the blessings in my life. It immideately slows me down physically as well as in my spirit.
I appreciate your writings and they too, are a trip into the richness of life with all its struggles.
Thanks for writing. I am looking forward to this next book. Hopefully it won’t be the final word you share.
Heidi in Wisconsin <
September 7th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
I REALLY ENJOY ALL OF YOUR BOOKS. I LIVE IN DELAWARE AND WE HAVE A SMALL AMISH AND MENNO. COMMUNITY.I HAVE SEVERAL AMISH FRIENDS AND I CAN GET A REAL FLAVOR OF THEIR LIFE THROUGH YOUR BOOKS, WITHOUT HAVING TO ASK THEM TOO MANY QUESTIONS. I TEACH 1ST GRADERS AND SOMETIMES COME HOME VERY FRAZZLED. THAT’S WHEN I PICK UP ONE OF YOUR HEARTWARMING BOOKS AND UNWIND. I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THESE SIGNED COPIES FOR MY 14 YEAR OLD AUTISTIC NIECE. SHE HAS SUCH A CHILD-LIKE VIEW AND A VERY LOVING HEART. SHE LIVES AND N.J. AND COMES TO VISIT A FEW TIMES A YEAR . WE DRIVE THRU THE AMISH COMMUNITY AND SHE SAYS THAT IT REMINDS HER OF HER AMERICAN DOLL SERIES.
THANKS ,
NANCY
September 7th, 2008 at 11:59 pm
dear cindy my mother is 85 and is waiting anxiously for your third book. she would be so pleased to have an autographed one she has trouble walking because of broken hip- healed but she limps now. she has really enjoyed reading the first two books.thank you mary white moms name is irene guinn
September 8th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Cindy,
Please enter me in the contest to receive your books. I have the other 2 books and I give them to my mom to read after I finish them. I made the “mistake” of loaning out the first book to someone(?)and I never got it back. I guess she loved it as much as I did. I am SO excited about the third book coming out in a few days. I have already pre-ordered it. I would love to have the set to give to my mom, she has been such a wonderful friend to me.
Thanks and please keep writing.
September 8th, 2008 at 10:34 am
Cindy, I love your books, I can’t wait for the next one, when the [soul mends]. I would love to win a copy that you signed.
Thank you for writing such good books.
Rita
September 8th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Cindy, I read the first book when I came across it in the used book section at a local Christian ministries thrift store. Then I spent 8 agonizing months waiting for book number 2. It’s only a week left now and there is a hurricane on the way. I will be at the bookstore the day number 3 arrives. I also got my mother-in-law hooked on the series and we both are anxiously awaiting this last installment. With all the things going on in the world we seem to become jaded and a little hard-hearted as we relate to it all. Your books take us all to a simpler time and allows us to feel Hanna’s suffering and we cry real tears along with her. I’m so looking forward to Hanna’s “happily ever after” (hopefully) with which ever lucky man she chooses. The Hanna character makes a person want to be better. Thank you.
September 8th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
I cannot wait until next tuesday when the book comes out. I LOVE your books, and could not put down either of the first two until I finished them. Keep up the good work. You are a fantastic writer.
September 8th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
Cindy,
I have to admit; this is not a book I would have picked up off the bookshelf to read! Was I ever surprised when I loved this book! (the first one is all I’ve read so far.) While visiting my mother in law, she brought the book out and asked if I wanted to read it. My sister in law was also there and she went on and on about how the first two were so good. Well, I agreed. I started the 1st book this morning and have not been able to put it down until I finished it. I fell in love with the characters and I learned so much by reading this book.
Thanks! By the way, I am going to the bookstore tomorrow to get the second book as I can’t wait to see what happens!!
September 8th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
I just checked out the first two books of your series at the library and ready them both in one day. I couldn’t put them down until I found out what happened. Definitely looking forward to reading the 3rd one and would love to get copies of all 3 someday.
September 9th, 2008 at 12:02 am
I am soooo glad that the third book is finally out! To be honest I don’t like to get caught up in book series’ (?) but I fell in love with the first book before I knew there were two more. It has been an unbelievably long and excruciating wait for this third book, and I will be making a bee line for my local library tomorrow after work to see if they have it yet. I may just have to buy the set to keep. I even recounted the books to my friend, whom I carpool with, on our way to school each morning. She is getting ready to start reading the series, too. Thank you for using your God given talent to do something that affects so many people in such a positive way!
September 9th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
I am so excited about the last book in this series. I read the first two last winter and couldn’t wait for the third. The books kept me up late at night and made getting housework done somewhat difficult. That’s actually a good thing. Few books are that good. Thanks for writing such worthwhile books.
September 9th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Just finished book one and loved it!! Half way through book two and can’t wait for book three.
September 10th, 2008 at 12:19 am
My next-door neighbor got me reading these about a month ago and I have been counting down the days until book 3 comes out. It only took me 3 days to read the first 2! I could not put them down. I cannot wait for book three. I am so on edge to know how everything turns out. I feel like I know Hannah and need to know she is ok. After suffering a similar attack as a teen, I can absolutely relate. I will be at the bookstore the morning it is available.
September 10th, 2008 at 9:37 am
I have wondered several times about the correct pronunciation of PA-Dutch words. I would LOVE to have the audio books!! It would make it easier even when I am reading future books! I love ALL
your books and count the days until the new one is released. Please keep writing!! Tammy
September 10th, 2008 at 10:22 am
I have read the first two books, I am looking forward to getting the new one. They are very interesting. I dont know how to pronounce the dutch words, but I love the books.
September 10th, 2008 at 10:55 am
Cindy, your books are fantastic. I’m so happy that I’ve found a new author to read. I sit and cry and cry, and my husband says to me “are those books really worth that”? I respond with a big “OF COURSE THEY ARE”. I’ve shared you with my friends and I can’t wait till my daughter(age 9) will read them too. Keep up the fabulous work!!
April
September 10th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
I am hanging out for “When The Soul Mends” to reach New Zealand - to have an autographed copy of all three books would be beyond anything I could imagine. Thanks for the chance to enter
September 10th, 2008 at 11:54 pm
Hi! Please enter me in your contest! I absolutely love your books, and would be thrilled to own them! You are a great writer! Thanks!
September 12th, 2008 at 10:44 am
Love the series! Can’t hardly wait for the 3rd Book! God has gifted you with an AWESOME talent! Thank You!
September 12th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
I fell in love with Hannah immediately and have enjoyed your books so much. My mother couldn’t wait to read about Hannah, and recently my granddaughter chose When the Heart Cries to read after perusing my collection of Amish books. We have become a family of fans. Please enter me in the contest. Thank you and God bless.
September 14th, 2008 at 6:02 am
My cousin and her daughter both read your first 2 books and shared them with me. I read them each in a couple of days. We are now arguing over who gets to read the next one first…so we have each decided to buy a copy because none of us wants to wait until the other is done. I will just donate mine to our church library after my mom had read it:) You do a great job of making it all seem so real. In the Amish world, things are done differently and I respect that…don’t always understand it, but respect them nonetheless.
September 14th, 2008 at 10:52 am
I just love the first two books and had to stay in bed long hours just to read them! As I live in England UK I will have to wait 11 to 16 days after publishing date to receive my copy of the third book.. Amazon being the only place I can find to buy them, so a signed one would be most gratefully recieved. Diana
September 14th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
enter me!! I LOVED your first 2 books and can’t wait to read the 3rd one!! Thanx!
September 14th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
I love these books! My friend gave me the first one to read which I read in one day (we were taking a long car trip), ran to the library as soon I could to get the second one. Now I can’t wait to read the third one. I would certainly LOVE to win these books for myself!
September 14th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Hey Cindy,
Please,please, please let Paul be the one she chooses!
Sharon Raines
September 14th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
I have just finished reading your second Sisters of the Quilt book and had to jump online to see if our local library had the third in. Of course, when I didn’t see it there I checked here to find out that it isn’t even out yet. I have come to love stories about the Amish and these stories especially have me entranced. Thank you for writing them and please enter me for the contest.
September 15th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I loved reading the first two books and am awaiting to read the third. Thank you for giving us such good books to read.
September 15th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
HI Cindy!!!
I love reading about the Amish and would love to win the set of autographed books. The Amish are a true inspiration to simple living and family values. I would love live a more simple life and not have all the extra stress We deal with on a daily basis in today’s society.
Thanks for this wonderful opportunity!
Stephanie
September 15th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
please enter me in the contest.
October 28th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
I read “When the Heart Cries,” when it came out in 2006. There are no words to describe how much it touched me. I shared the book with everybody I know. I anxiously awaited the September, 2007 release date for “When the Morning Comes” and bought it the first day it was out. LOVED IT! Once again, I was anxiously awaiting the release of “When the Soul Mends” this past September. However, there was this guy out in the Gulf of Mexico by the name of Ike who decided to make his debut about the same time. Even thought we didn’t have electricity and gas was scarce I tried to track the book down. Turns out the book stores didn’t have electricity either (sometimes they didn’t even have a decent building left) and there were numerous logistical problems that kept me from obtaining the book. I finally found a copy toward the end of the month and I devoured it in two days. I have to tell you . . . It was worth the wait. The world would be such a nicer place if there were more Hannas in it. Cindy, keep on writing. Your books touch deep within the heart.
November 13th, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Please enter me in the contest
November 13th, 2008 at 11:54 pm
I love to read, please enter me