Step into the heartwarming world of Prairie State Friends, where love, faith, and Amish traditions weave a tapestry of unforgettable stories! Written by New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter, this Christian Amish fiction trilogy set in Arthur, Illinois, captures the essence of community and resilience. With its authentic portrayal of Amish life and relatable characters, Prairie State Friends invites readers to explore a simpler, faith-filled world.
Brunstetter’s trilogy follows a rotating cast of characters navigating life’s challenges, from heartbreak to hope, all while rooted in the values of friendship and trust. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Amish fiction or new to the genre, this series promises to tug at your heartstrings and leave you inspired.
How Prairie State Friends Began
Wanda E. Brunstetter, a pioneer of Amish fiction, drew inspiration for Prairie State Friends from her deep connections with Amish communities. Her husband’s Mennonite roots and their travels across states like Illinois sparked her fascination with the Amish’s peaceful lifestyle. Set in Arthur, Illinois—the fourth-largest Amish community in the U.S.—the series reflects Brunstetter’s personal research and friendships with Amish families. Launched in 2015, the trilogy builds on her earlier Discovery series, introducing fresh characters and stories that resonate with readers seeking faith-driven narratives.
The Heart of Prairie State Friends
The Prairie State Friends trilogy comprises three novels: The Decision, The Gift, and The Restoration. In The Decision, Jonah Miller, heartbroken after being left at the altar, relocates to Illinois and meets Elaine Schrock. Their budding romance faces obstacles when Elaine prioritizes family loyalty, testing Jonah’s faith in love. The Gift follows Adam Beachy, who enters a marriage of convenience with Leah Mast to care for his orphaned nieces, despite clashing over her reflexology practice. Finally, The Restoration dives into a love triangle as Priscilla Herschberger is courted by childhood friend Elam and outsider David, with jealousy threatening their Amish community.
The series shines through its themes of friendship, forgiveness, and the power of faith. Brunstetter’s vivid storytelling brings Arthur’s rolling prairies and tight-knit community to life, while her characters grapple with universal struggles—grief, trust, and the search for belonging. The trilogy’s Christian undertones and focus on Amish traditions, like buggy-making and communal dinners, offer a refreshing escape into a world of simplicity and sincerity.
Why Prairie State Friends Resonates
Prairie State Friends has left a lasting mark on Amish fiction, thanks to Brunstetter’s authentic voice and emotional depth. Fans praise the series for its relatable characters and clean, inspirational storytelling, with reviews highlighting its ability to blend heart-wrenching drama with uplifting resolutions. The trilogy’s focus on friendship as a binding force resonates deeply, reminding readers of the importance of community in overcoming life’s trials. With over 12 million copies of her books sold, Brunstetter’s work continues to draw readers to the Amish genre, cementing Prairie State Friends as a beloved series.
- Publication Years: 2015–2016
- Number of Books: 3
- Setting: Arthur, Illinois
- Genres: Christian Fiction, Amish Romance
Grab The Decision and dive into Prairie State Friends’s heartwarming world of faith and love today!