I really enjoyed the first book in this series so anticipated enjoying this sequel, but it wasn't up to par. I finished and it was okay, but I wouldn't even classify this as Amish Lit. The author is very skilled at bringing characters alive, using rich description of the setting, and the details make it a fun, easy read. The main romance really sizzles. But I was really disappointed to discover the lack of genuine conflict with other characters, which was repeatedly sidestepped and glossed over. Sara could have had some really interesting, pointed discussions about violence, and other cultural differences with her new friends. Instead every time a question was raised, I thought Sara either avoided or quickly dismissed it if it distracted from the romance. Maybe it's just a frustrating flaw with the main character that I thought she'd grow out of, but I hoped for more from Sara, especially after Jayne's transformation. The most glaring example is the lack of any real theological inquiry. It is full of movie and pop culture references, but doesn't quote one scripture. Characters who debated what to wear for pages resolved their theological differences with cliche platitudes. Cupcake bakeries and fabric shops are sensuously described but worship services are vaguely summarized. In the middle I thought Sara's relationship with God and the church would be her primary conflict, jumping off from Jayne's yes-or-no to Jesus into a deeper exploration of differences between Sara's church choices outside of Amish life. Instead that conflict became a minor theme, resolved indirectly through Sara's love relationship. God is agape, not eros. This is the first time that I have read any Amish literature. I really enjoyed it. I immediately was hooked on the story and liked the main character, Sarah Burkholder. I identified with her too. We both had very protected childhoods and were maybe too trusting. She was raised in an Amish community and since her passion was fashion design, she decided to leave and become English. As the story goes on, all the differences between Amish living and English living become apparent, a few are no mirrors or telephones in the homes, no cameras, no Santa Clause, no hair salons and no higher education. This book is the second of a two. The first book, 'Plain Jayne' dealt with the romance between Jayne Tate and Sara's brother who also decided to become English. What really stood out in the book was Sarah's relative saying that maybe some people were meant to be Amish.I like that simple acceptance of reality and lack of judgment associated with it.I recommend this book to all who are curious about the Amish and those would just love a good read.
What do You think about Simply Sara (2010)?
*Thanks to Jeane Wynn of Wynn Wynn Media for providing a Manuscript ARC for review.*
—kwebb
Amazing writing. Very insightful. Can't recommend it enough.
—marineldiaz
