Picture an American storyteller who weaves heartfelt tales of Amish life with authenticity and grace—meet Cindy Woodsmall! A New York Times bestselling author, Cindy has captivated readers with over twenty novels, blending romance, faith, and the simplicity of Plain communities. Her unique friendships with Amish families bring a rare depth to her stories, making her a beloved voice in Amish fiction.
From her debut novel in 2006 to her latest time-slip adventures, Cindy’s work invites readers into a world where faith and love conquer all. Ready to step into her cozy, inspiring universe? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable author.
The Making of Cindy Woodsmall
Born Cindy McBrayer, Cindy’s journey to becoming a literary star began in Maryland’s dairy country. At ten, she befriended Luann, a Plain Mennonite girl, whose prayer kapp and strict lifestyle sparked Cindy’s lifelong fascination with Amish and Mennonite culture. This friendship, though challenged by cultural differences, planted seeds for her future novels. Years later, as a homeschooling mom in Georgia, Cindy’s desire to write grew. Encouraged by her husband, Tommy, she dove into fiction, drawing on her connections with Old Order Amish families, including her dear friend Miriam Flaud, to craft authentic stories.
Cindy Woodsmall’s Unforgettable Stories
Cindy’s novels are a heartfelt blend of romance, faith, and the complexities of Amish life. Her debut, When the Heart Cries (2006), kicked off the Sisters of the Quilt series, following Hannah Lapp’s struggle between love and tradition. This series, with its New York Times bestselling sequels, showcases Cindy’s knack for tackling tough issues like betrayal and redemption with sensitivity.
The Ada’s House series, including The Hope of Refuge, explores love and second chances, earning rave reviews for its emotional depth. Cindy’s time-slip novels, like Yesterday’s Gone (2022, co-authored with Erin Woodsmall), add a fresh twist, blending Amish life with historical settings. Her nonfiction work, Plain Wisdom, co-written with Miriam, offers a glimpse into Amish values, enriching her fiction’s authenticity. Cindy’s lyrical prose and focus on faith make her stories resonate with readers seeking hope and connection.
Whether it’s the Amish Vines and Orchards series or standalone novels like The Englisch Daughter, Cindy’s work stands out for its real-life inspirations. Her friendships with Amish communities ensure every detail, from prayer kapps to community dynamics, feels true to life.
Why Cindy Woodsmall Matters
Cindy Woodsmall is more than an author—she’s a bridge between the Amish and English worlds. Her novels, praised by the Wall Street Journal as among the top three in Amish fiction, offer readers a window into a culture often misunderstood. By addressing real issues like family, faith, and forgiveness, she connects with readers worldwide, earning awards like Fiction Book of the Year and a Christy Award nomination.
Her media features, from ABC Nightline to National Geographic, highlight her role as a cultural ambassador. Cindy’s stories remind us that love and faith can thrive in any setting, making her a cherished figure in Christian fiction.
- Debut Novel: When the Heart Cries (2006)
- Key Series: Sisters of the Quilt, Ada’s House, Amish Vines and Orchards
- Awards: Fiction Book of the Year, Reviewer’s Choice, Christy Award finalist
- Fun Fact: Lives in Georgia’s North Georgia Mountains with her husband
About Cindy Woodsmall
Snag When the Heart Cries or Yesterday’s Gone and dive into Cindy Woodsmall’s heartwarming Amish world! Her stories are perfect for cozy evenings with a cup of tea.