Step into the heartwarming world of Ada’s House, where love, faith, and Amish traditions weave a tapestry of unforgettable stories! Cindy Woodsmall’s Ada’s House trilogy is a captivating blend of romance and spirituality, set against the authentic backdrop of Amish life. With richly drawn characters and emotional depth, this series invites readers to explore universal themes of belonging, forgiveness, and personal growth in a way that lingers long after the final page.
How Ada’s House Began
Cindy Woodsmall, a New York Times best-selling author, drew inspiration for Ada’s House from her deep connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish communities. Her experiences, including contributing to a National Geographic documentary, lent authenticity to her storytelling. Launched in 2009 with The Hope of Refuge, the trilogy was born from Woodsmall’s desire to craft narratives that transcend typical Amish fiction, focusing on real human struggles and triumphs within a unique cultural setting.
The Heart of Ada’s House
The Ada’s House trilogy comprises three novels: The Hope of Refuge, The Bridge of Peace, and The Harvest of Grace. In The Hope of Refuge, Cara Moore, a widowed single mother, flees New York City with her daughter to escape a stalker, finding refuge in the Amish community of Dry Lake, Pennsylvania. Her journey intertwines with Ephraim Mast, who risks his Amish ties to help her. The Bridge of Peace follows Lena Kauffman, a schoolteacher with a noticeable birthmark, as she navigates community tensions and personal challenges. The Harvest of Grace introduces Sylvia Fisher, who rebuilds her life on a struggling dairy farm after a betrayal, finding unexpected allies.
Woodsmall’s storytelling shines through themes of grace, redemption, and the search for acceptance. Unlike conventional Amish novels, the series avoids clichés, portraying characters who grapple with poverty, betrayal, and societal expectations while embracing love and resilience. The vivid Amish setting, infused with Woodsmall’s insider knowledge, creates an immersive experience that feels both familiar and fresh.
Why Ada’s House Resonates
Ada’s House has carved a special place in Amish romance, praised for its emotional depth and relatable characters. Fans, including those on Goodreads and Amazon, rave about the trilogy’s ability to blend Christian values with thought-provoking narratives without being preachy. Woodsmall’s focus on universal struggles—finding community, overcoming fear, and forgiving others—makes the series accessible to readers beyond the Amish fiction niche. Its lasting appeal lies in its authentic portrayal of Amish life and its celebration of human strength.
- Publication Years: 2009–2011
- Number of Books: 3
- Awards: Finalist for prestigious awards like the Christy and Carol Awards
Grab The Hope of Refuge and dive into the soul-stirring world of Ada’s House today!