Diane M. (bookaholic) -
Helpful Score: 8
If you enjoy reading about the Amish, you won't want to miss this awesome book that starts Cindy Woodsmall's Sisters of the Quilt trilogy. The story of Hannah Lapp, a seventeen year old from the Old Order Amish is a moving, touching, emotional, tragic and powerful tale. From the time that she secretly accepts not only the marriage proposal of a Mennonite man but all the changes that will entail with the disapproval and detachment of her family and the Old Order Amish, her story enfolds. She knew it would not be easy but one brutal act will set off a chain of events that would change her life forever.
This story is a riveting page turner from beginning to end as she faces one challenge after another. Yet through it all the thread of hope also prevails. You will definitely want to have the second book in the series. WHEN THE MORNING COMES, close at hand when you finish this one so you can continue Hannah's intriging story right away. The detail of Amish life, the cast of believable characters, the plot and her wonderful writing makes it truly amazing that this is her first novel! Great job!
This story is a riveting page turner from beginning to end as she faces one challenge after another. Yet through it all the thread of hope also prevails. You will definitely want to have the second book in the series. WHEN THE MORNING COMES, close at hand when you finish this one so you can continue Hannah's intriging story right away. The detail of Amish life, the cast of believable characters, the plot and her wonderful writing makes it truly amazing that this is her first novel! Great job!
Michelle P. (SouthernChelz) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 216 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
A very good book with a excellent setting. It gives a lot of insight to the Amish and they way they think about things. Warning though, this book is a cliffhanger! I am still waiting for book three to come out.
A modern day, well sorta, of Romeo and Juliet in the setting of an Amish settlement.
A modern day, well sorta, of Romeo and Juliet in the setting of an Amish settlement.
Melissa A. (mjalley) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I loved this book. I read it in one day..not because it's a short book but because I could not put it down. I can't wait to read the others. I love the main person Hannah, she is so sweet and misunderstood. I really liked reading about Amish beliefs and traditions also. You will not be disapointed, a lot happens in this book!
Madge C. (dmconn1) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 234 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
Very interesting novel. Cindy Woodsmall writes a captivating story about an innocent young lady who is basically punished for a crime committed to her. I am anxious to read the 2nd novel in the series. We will see a lot more of this new author in the Christian circuit. If you haven't had an opportunity to read her work, this is a great piece to start with.
Laura H. (lollipops) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 109 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Seventeen year old Hannah Lapp is in live with Paul Waddella Mennonite that her Old Order Amish family has forbidden her to see. Paul is getting ready to return to college for his senior year, but before he goes, he asks Hannah to be his wife. Hannah accepts, knowing full well what that choice means.
But on the way home that evening, Hannah is brutally attacked, and in one swoop all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed. Now Hannahs reputation is in ruins and Hannah might lose her family, her community, and Paul.
WHEN THE HEART CRIES is the first book in the Sisters of the Quilt series. It is said that fans of Beverly Lewis will love Cindy Woodsmalls books. Ive read both, and Cindys voice is totally different than Beverlys. I think Cindy will find her own, well-deserved fan base.
Hannah is a realistic heroine, and she totally had my sympathies even as her life crashed down around her feet. Written in several different points of view, the reader is able to understand different characters opinions, even if they couldnt be farther from the truth. I read this book in one day, unable to put it down. I cant wait for the next book in this series, When the Morning Comes, available in September of 2007. Way too long to wait between books. Readers will not want to miss WHEN THE HEART CRIES. Its a fantastic read. A glossary of Amish terms are included at the end, in case the reader is unfamiliar.
But on the way home that evening, Hannah is brutally attacked, and in one swoop all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed. Now Hannahs reputation is in ruins and Hannah might lose her family, her community, and Paul.
WHEN THE HEART CRIES is the first book in the Sisters of the Quilt series. It is said that fans of Beverly Lewis will love Cindy Woodsmalls books. Ive read both, and Cindys voice is totally different than Beverlys. I think Cindy will find her own, well-deserved fan base.
Hannah is a realistic heroine, and she totally had my sympathies even as her life crashed down around her feet. Written in several different points of view, the reader is able to understand different characters opinions, even if they couldnt be farther from the truth. I read this book in one day, unable to put it down. I cant wait for the next book in this series, When the Morning Comes, available in September of 2007. Way too long to wait between books. Readers will not want to miss WHEN THE HEART CRIES. Its a fantastic read. A glossary of Amish terms are included at the end, in case the reader is unfamiliar.
BARBARA D. (TINKER) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 354 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
THIS IS AGREAT READ,THE GIRL DEPICTED IN THIS BOOK WAS SO REAL,I JUST WANTED TO HELP HER SO BAD.IF YOU CAN'T GET BEVERLY LEWIS TRY THIS ONE.
LaVonne W. (Grnemae) -
Helpful Score: 3
WOW - hard to believe this is a debut novel. LOVED it. I wept with Hannah, I felt her denial, her fears, her loneliness. The plot for this story would have played out well in any setting but to have it set in a "plain" community makes it all the more heart wrenching.
I liked this book better than any of the Beverly Lewis or Wanda Brunstetter books that I have read. Can't wait to read the next 2 books in the series.
I liked this book better than any of the Beverly Lewis or Wanda Brunstetter books that I have read. Can't wait to read the next 2 books in the series.
Helpful Score: 2
Cindy Woodsmall is an amazing new author!
I loved the new air that was breathed into the Amish setting in this book. It is not your typical type of book about Amish life, love, and resolve. Instead this book goes into some of the other topics of life and answers some additional questions that many readers would have about Amish lifestyle. I think that this book is amazing! I cried, cheared and was blessed by the story in this amazing new book.
I can't wait for the next one in this series, "Sister's of the Quilt".
I loved the new air that was breathed into the Amish setting in this book. It is not your typical type of book about Amish life, love, and resolve. Instead this book goes into some of the other topics of life and answers some additional questions that many readers would have about Amish lifestyle. I think that this book is amazing! I cried, cheared and was blessed by the story in this amazing new book.
I can't wait for the next one in this series, "Sister's of the Quilt".
Geraldine C. (gerric) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
If you enjoy reading books by Beverly Lewis, you will enjoy this one. I found it hard to put it down once I started reading it.
Elizabeth W. (homeschool2) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
THis was a great read. I had a hard time putting it down and was disappointed to have to wait for the other 2 in the series to come out. This is a book that makes you cry and was well written.
Brandi F. (Fitzysmom) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 23 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first novel for the author, Cindy Woodsmall. In my opinion she did an excellent job in giving us a peek into the life of the Old Order Amish. I look forward to the rest of the series.
Helpful Score: 1
I found the book very readable (i.e., I didn't want to put it down), but I didn't *enjoy* reading it. I just wanted it to be over--to find out what happens and be done with it. I didn't look forward to getting into bed and reading.
I had expected it to be more sweet and romantic. There was a very violent scene at the beginning that caught me off guard; then it was just trauma and upset for the entire book, with practically no relief. Also, the author kept switching point-of-view which I found disconcerting; I didn't think it was very well written.
I felt very disappointed with the ending, and then realized that it is part of a trilogy; so I googled to read the plots of books 2 and 3 so I could find out the ending without reading them.
I would not recommend this to someone looking for romance, or lovers of young adult literature. It is very soap opera-like, if you're into that.
I had expected it to be more sweet and romantic. There was a very violent scene at the beginning that caught me off guard; then it was just trauma and upset for the entire book, with practically no relief. Also, the author kept switching point-of-view which I found disconcerting; I didn't think it was very well written.
I felt very disappointed with the ending, and then realized that it is part of a trilogy; so I googled to read the plots of books 2 and 3 so I could find out the ending without reading them.
I would not recommend this to someone looking for romance, or lovers of young adult literature. It is very soap opera-like, if you're into that.
Shellie M. (SewMuchFun) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
An absolultly wonderful book. This book will grab you and draw you in. You wont be able to put it down. This is one of those WOW books. Highly recommend.
Debbie G. (hopehope) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 163 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is Cindy Woodsmall's first novel... Very good story... a must read if you like to learn and know more about the plain people's lives... I am so looking forward to reading the next in the series "The Sister's of the Quilt"...dg
Lisa G. (g8rfan) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. The storyline was engrossing and kept my interest throughout the book. I enjoyed learning more about the Amish way of life. I felt like I was living in their community. Hannah, the main character, has to choose between her love of the Amish people and her love for Paul, a young man from a neighboring Mennonite community. She is determined to marry Paul despite the obstacles, but one summer afternoon changes the course of their lives and those of their family. Great book and great author!I look forward to reading the second in this series!
Carolyn C. (Liztonlady) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 48 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is a wonderful story - you can not put the book down - I can not wait to read the next one she writes to see what happens!!! One of the better Amish type books I have read. You will love it!!!
Charla S. (Charla) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first book in a new series. Anyone curious or who has a soft spot in their hearts for the Amish will enjoy this book.
Despite being raised Amish, the young woman decides that she may want to leave that community and her upbringing.
Despite being raised Amish, the young woman decides that she may want to leave that community and her upbringing.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one book I could not put down. I was reading it at red lights while transporting my kids to and from school (I had them watch for when the light turned green, ha!)
I highly recommend it, it was excellent!
I highly recommend it, it was excellent!
Helpful Score: 1
Really enjoyed getting a glimpse of what an Amish family faces and their view of the outside world. Can't wait to read #2 and #3.
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful book first int he seriesSister of the quilt.
Helpful Score: 1
heartwarming and well written. Great story
Rose B. (msrose) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 33 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Very good book with an unusual twist. An young Amish woman is raped and left for dead on the side of the road. Her bishop and elders, because of a delay in telling them of the incident, don't believe that she was raped. Because she was not a member yet, she was not shunned, but she was ostracized by her community. She ended up leaving the man she planned to marry (not of her church jurisdiction, a forbidden act in her community) and moved to another community in another state, hoping to make a new life for herself. I hope that the next book in the series tells us what happened to her as she traveled and made her new home.
Helpful Score: 1
Book was excellent!!! I think Cindy Woodsmall is running a close second to Beverly Lewis.
Did not want to put this book down. Kept your undivided attention from beginning to end!!!
Did not want to put this book down. Kept your undivided attention from beginning to end!!!
Very good book!
Good book. Leaves you wait for the next book to see what happens.
Susanne S. (susieme) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
Can't miss with this series. An excellent read.
I loved this book!!! I read a lot of books about the Amish and this has been my favorite one in a long time. I believe this is the author's first novel and she did an excellent job detailing an interesting story.
Kim T. (morningsong) - , reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
Overall I enjoyed this book. It took me awhile to finish it. For the first few chapters it didn't hold my interest (and I'm a big Amish fiction fan) so I set it aside. Then one day I picked it back up and for some reason I really started enjoying it. Midway through the book the story really begins to move. The quilting bee at Mary's really had me in stitches and was my favorite part.
Leola C. (swamponkeymom) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 353 more book reviews
I loved this author! Can't wait for more from her.
Shirley M. (rabbimc) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
Although I had not read books by Cindy Woodsmall before, I tried this one, (actually 3 stories) and am SO glad I did! It took me a while to finish it, since this is a very large book and I had much work to do, including keeping my 10 month old grandson 3 days a week. I also kept going back in it to make sure I had my characters right. I enjoy Amish books anyway, but this one is probably one of the best I've read. Very heart-wrenching!
Shirley J. (nannyjames) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
I was not to sure that I would like this book at first because it is not like a lot of the other Amish books that I have read. It gets int the meat of things with in the first 59 pages and it is not all warm and fuzzy in that the girl in the book is a sweet girl that gets into some hard situations partly from her own making and partly not. I like this book because it also teaches a person the value of not keeping secrets from the people who are important in your life, I it also teaches about trust and truth! If any thing was gained from this book it was the fact that I found out that the Amish and the Mennonite are no different from the rest of the world, they have their problems just like the rest of us.
Vickie W. (spunky7478) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 26 more book reviews
This book really made it hard to put down. It is one of those stories that keeps you interested. Poor girl, not like getting raped wasn't enough but she did not deserve to be treated the way she was by her community.
vickie
vickie
Teresa G. (tgriffis) -
What a wonderful debut novel by this author! She had me hooked from the very first chapter. Highly recommend, but have the next in the series so you don't have to wait.
Margaret C. (cherryblossommj) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 157 more book reviews
My heart complete breaks and repairs through this book. This story is told giving perspective into many of the characters lives and it makes you look back on your own with perspective.
***SPOILER ALERT***
Imagine leading a plain, normal strict life, yet having a desire for a man you know will not receive approval in the eyes of your family your people and struggling to find a way. Then as everything looks like it will work out just find, you're raped by a stranger and nobody believes you. Then when you finally accept the reality of a pregnancy, you lose that too. Only through the grace of God can life be repaired.
Usually I despise books that leave things wanting, but this book was perfect. It ended at just the right time and I look forward to reading a sequel When The Morning Comes
***SPOILER ALERT***
Imagine leading a plain, normal strict life, yet having a desire for a man you know will not receive approval in the eyes of your family your people and struggling to find a way. Then as everything looks like it will work out just find, you're raped by a stranger and nobody believes you. Then when you finally accept the reality of a pregnancy, you lose that too. Only through the grace of God can life be repaired.
Usually I despise books that leave things wanting, but this book was perfect. It ended at just the right time and I look forward to reading a sequel When The Morning Comes
Loved this series. the first I've read by the author and will definetly read more.
Terri K. (GrammyTerri) -
Being a big fan of the Beverly Lewis Amish novels I was a bit skeptical. This novel by Cindy Woodsmall was wonderful.
A amish girl who has to deal with a horrific experience and the disappointing way the people in her community deal with the problem. We can all learn from this story and reflect on how we would react in such a situation.
Cindy S. (cindyellen) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Cindy Woodsmall is my favorite Amish genre author. She weaves a wonderful tale and her characters are well developed and her plot keeps me fully engaged and wanting to get to the end quickly!
This book was wonderful. This girl endured so much and yet stood strong. I felt her heartache every step of the way. Just ordered the second book. Can't wait to read it.
Jeanette B. (jnet) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 147 more book reviews
On the evening of their engagement, tragedy strikes and in one unwelcome encountre, all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed. As she finds herself entangled in questions that the Old Ways of her peoople cannot answer, Hannah faces the possibility of losing her place in her family, in her community-and in the heart of the man she loves.
A Very Good Book, great reading.. a marvelous author.
A Very Good Book, great reading.. a marvelous author.
excellent book I love reading about the Amish they are so informational that you can picture what the author is writing about.
Diane K. (ladydimarie) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
This charming novel enchants one. It takes the reader down a realistic path smattered with romance.
Dolores H. (redroses12) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Great book to read .Cant wait to read the rest of her "Sister of The Quilt " Series.
Tami Jo L. (MKLadyTJ) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 53 more book reviews
When Hannah dares to love across the boundaries of tradition, will she lose everything? Despite being raised in a traditional Old Orde rAmish family, 17 yr old Hannah Lapp desires to break w/custom and marry outside the cloistered community. She's been in love with Mennonite Paul Waddell for 3 yrs and before returning to college for his senior yr Paul proposes. Hannah accepts, aware that her choise will change her relationship with ther family forever! On the evening of their engagement, tragedy strikes and in one unwelcome encounter all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed.
A fabulous read! I cannot wait for book 2!
A fabulous read! I cannot wait for book 2!
Excellent story
This book was wonderful!! I loved it and can't wait to get the second in the series!!!!!
A warm look at the Amish!!
Kathy H. (skaytes) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 226 more book reviews
Terrific book!! The sequel to this book will come out next year..this is direct from a email from her to myself as I wrote her after reading this book. I think she may also have posted this info on her web site now as well.
Jessie A. (grandmajessie) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
The book I received was in excellent condition. I loved the book. I loved the whole series. When you put one down you can hardly wait to get to the next one.
Toni C. (oneperkychick) - , reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 176 more book reviews
I've enjoyed every book I've read by Cindy Woodsmall. She transports you to the Amish/Menonnite community in a captivating way. Quick read! As always--it's about following God and His ways.
Old order Amish Hannah Lapp wants to break with tradition and marry Paul Waddell, a college student and Mennonite. The day that Paul proposes, she is raped by a stranger on the road.Hannah denies it and becomes pregnant from the rape. Paul finds out and turns against her as do almost all of the old Order Amish. Hannah has the baby several days later but the baby is way too early and dies right after birth. They bury the baby in a 1 foot casket and Hannah decides to leave and so live with Aunt ZAbeth in Ohio. Can she make it on her own with an 8th grade education? It is amazing all that Cindy Woodsmall has put into this little book. She has twists and turns and mysteries and I was constantly wondering what would happen next.
This is the author's first novel and the first series of Sisters of the Quilt. I read book 2 first, and I can't wait to read book 3! Great book.
Jennifer M. (mccullar) reviewed When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, Bk 1) on + 55 more book reviews
very good wanted to keep it but saw lots of people want to read it!
I hate this book. Such saying and writings about Amish when they don't even do these things. They would never run away and date English men this way. All these dumb authors.
