Conversations With Kav – Amish Fiction, Yay or Nay? + Giveaway

Did you know that this is Amish in April month? It’s an annual booktube challenge that encourages readers to explore the many facets of Amish fiction. From prim and proper sweet romances to edgier general market thrillers, there’s something for everyone. You’ll notice more Amish fiction on the blog this month as I celebrate the genre with some well-loved re-reads as well as new-to-me stories.

I used to read a lot more Amish Fiction though my consumption has unintentionally tapered off over the last few years. I’ve been trying to figure out why and this is what I’ve come up with so far:

• Repetitive plot lines, especially in the romance category. Which is strange, because the same could be said of contemporary romance or historical romance. Maybe it’s because Amish fiction is limited somewhat because of the nature of the culture and lifestyle?
• There seems to be fewer Amish novels being released by Christian publishers so choices are limited and/or they don’t seem to get a huge online presence (at least not in my sphere of the internet) so I’m missing them.
• I’ve noticed more general market publishers picking up Amish fiction BUT it feels like they don’t give the same research and care with authenticity and that really irks me. I’ve picked up many an Amish paperback from the library only to be disappointed with all the major errors I come across. It’s like the authors are just playing dress up with regular contemporary heroes and heroines. Slap on an apron or suspenders and call them Amish. Seriously, I read an Amish romance where wedding plans were being made and the bride to be was deciding on bridesmaids dresses, flower arrangements, decorating the chapel (she was Old Order Amish!) etc. Oh, and getting the bridal party’s nails done professionally! Whhhhhaaaaattttt???? I was so disillusioned and I think those ‘surface’ Amish books put me off the genre.

The kind of Amish Fiction I like to read has:

• Humour. I think of Suzanne Woods Fisher’s Stoney Ridge series and all the spinoffs! Some of those characters are a hoot and the situations her younger characters get into are so much fun!
• Mystery. I really love a mix of Amish and Mystery especially cozy mysteries.And the Amish adjacent ones are really intriguing. That’s where the main characters aren’t Amish but the story is set in an Amish community and there are lots of Amish secondary characters. Amanda Flowers, Isabelle Alan, Emma Miller and Laura Bradford have written some great series.
• History. There aren’t many historical Amish novels out there but I have been intrigued by the ones I have read. Jan Drexler has written two fantastic historical series.
• Dysfunction. Complicated family dynamics and the way issues are dealt with (or not dealt with) in a community. Tons of storytelling fodder there! Instead of the cliche ‘perfect’ Amish family all the time. Shelley Shepard Gray is an author who excels at this kind of story.

And now I have questions!

• Are you a fan of Amish fiction?
• Why or why not?
• If your interest has waned, why?
• What kind of themes do you like to see in your Amish Fiction?
• Favourite authors of Amish Fiction?

Important Bonus Question:

Do you have any recommendations for independently published Amish fiction authors? Please and thank you!

Giveaway Opportunity:

Share your thoughts/answer a question or two in the comments and you will be entered in a draw for:

Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday April 18 2026