Note: the issues explored in the series plot are for mature readers 15 or older. Please ask your parents to advise you before reading this series, as it can arouse sensitive views.
This series is by far my favorite in the Amish genre. I tend think that most Amish fiction is dull, and the latest from Bev Lewis - in my opinion - is no exemption. Even with her books, I feel there just isn't enough new ideas or depth (development, plot, etc) needed for the reader to get into the story. Just about every author has the same plot idea about Englicher vs Amish, and "to fall in love or not fall in love". I don't know. I just wanted to read something original, and I found that with Cindy Woodsmall's "Sisters of the Quilt" trilogy. It kept my attention and I really routed for Hannah. Without giving spoilers away, Hannah is faced with the usual "stay or not stay" battle, but in addition, tragedy strikes - unlike any explored by other Amish fiction authors. Throughout the three novels, it was so wonderful to see Hannah's character develop in so much depth and her story seemed so "human". I think every girl in one way or another, could relate to Hannah Lapp and her efforts to pick up the pieces, be resilient and gather emotional healing from within as she slowly, surely finds her own way and her own reasons for believing in God and her life's purpose.
Because of the issues explored in this series, I recommend this to only mature readers, 15 or older. This series is not just "this happened, then that happened, then oops, I fell, but frolicked the rest of the way" (which is how I feel most Amish fiction is written like). This series is not sugar-coated, and it was refreshing in that there was something totally unexpected that occurred and it was believable and shocking and followed by waves of ups and downs. The romance in it is balanced and it the books provide various character perspectives. I give it 5 stars out of 5!!! A must read!