Lydie doesn't feel she fits into her Amish community. She is almost always late, gets fired from jobs frequently and rarely finishes anything. None of this is intentional, it is just how she is. Her family is often frustrated with her, but her long term friend, Nathan loves her as she is. He can't understand why she has told him to find someone else and she is unable to tell him the truth.

While much of the story focuses on Lydie, her father David and friend Nathan play important roles in the narrative. The author skillfully presents and intertwines the crucial aspects of each of the characters lives. Important issues are presented candidly and with sensitivity. All the characters, whether they are protagonists or secondary, are vividly drawn.

I found this book to be a pleasure to read. It is well written, informative and engrossing. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Lydia is Amish, but she is not the typical Amish female. She loses every job she's had, in a very short time of employment. To make matters worse, her father is the Bishop and she feels she's under everyone's microscope.
Nathan has feelings for Lydia, but she knows she's not good enough for him. She also made a promise to his father that she'd stay away from Nathan.
As heartbreaking as it would be for her, she is seriously considering leaving the Amish. She just feels it would be better for everyone if she did.
Then, her father's sister who had gone English, offers Lydia a job filling in at her medical clinic where is is a physician. It is temporary while her employee is on leave. Lydia just knows deep down that she will be a disappointment here, also. But, she is in for a surprise. Her aunt understands Lydia's struggles as she, herself, has them also and has learned to cope.
Nathan's brother, Mick tries to make everything a competition, and now their father has forced the brothers into a situation where they are competing for the family farm. Mick believes in having crops sprayed with chemicals, while Nathan has been studying organic farming and wants to give it a try. Now, he has the chance to do so. I found all the information about organic farming most interesting.
Then, Lydia's grandmother comes for a visit. She is bossy and takes over the household. She is the one person the Bishop cannot seem to stand up to. His wife and two little boys left to go help his older daughter who is on bed rest. He knows Birdie won't be back until his momma is gone. What is he to do?
This was a most delightful story!
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Revell through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to write a positive review, but how could I not? Wonderful story!

Anything but Plain, the newest Amish novel by Suzanne Woods Fisher, departs from the genre's usual tired storylines to concentrate on mental illness, particularly ADHD. Lydie Stoltzfus, the main character, is a 19-year-old bishop's daughter who discovers she has ADHD. She doesn't find out she has it straight away, though—she gets a job working for the local doctor, and it's he who sees her symptoms and eventually gives her an ADHD diagnosis.

That pretty well sums up Anything but Plain's primary narrative; however, there is a subsidiary plot (sometimes known as Plot B) centered on Nathan, Lydie's love interest, whose father wants to divide the family land. Sincerely speaking, Nathan's story was hackneyed, dull, and predictable; it seemed like filler and slowed down the novel's tempo.

Many readers have given Anything but Plain high marks; while I'm pleased for them, I don't count myself among them. I had an issue with Lydie—I couldn't connect with her. If I can't connect with the protagonist, I lose interest in the narrative rather quickly. The Plot A storyline held some promise for me, but there was just too much "preaching" that I found distracting.

Overall, Anything but Plain is a straightforward story—involving a heavy subject—hampered by clichéd genre conventions. ╌★★½✰✰

Lydie Stoltzfus, she doesn't have an easy life. Feeling like the square peg in a round hole she's the Bishops daughter and that gets her constantly judged. She doesn't fit in with the other Amish girls, sometimes she doesn't care,sometimes she feels left out. She usually takes a bit longer to do things,getting distracted easily and needing a detailed list for things. She understands things a bit differently.
I have learned a lot about ADHD , (Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.) I feel a strong compassion towards those having this. The author explained it so well and handled it so respectfully.
I was impressed with the idea of organic farming, no spraying of crops and how well the son who did this type of farming does with sales. I am all for organics, so much tastier and healthier.
Like all of us the characters are mightily flawed and may not be at first but they seek redemption,forgiveness,God and to better not only themselves but themselves for others. I was so touched by the forgiveness that was asked for and also given. A Lot of characters started out one way and changed to a much better God seeking way.
I always feel so good when I read one of this author's books.

Pub Date 04 Oct 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

I always enjoy Suzanne Woods Fisher's books. Anything but Plain was no exception. It was a bit slow to start for me, but once I got into it, I really enjoyed it.

The character of Lydie was unlike any other I've read in Amish fiction. I loved how she learned to deal with her ADHD and use her strengths and gifts to her advantage.

Nathan's journey into organic farming was interesting to me, too. I learned many facts along the way as he struggled with his brother for control of the land.

Finally, the family dynamics in both the Stolzfus and Yoder families provided even more to enjoy in this fresh take on Amish life. Rather than simply using the same old tropes many writers fall back on, Fisher tells the story by exploring the intersection of faith, family, tradition, and duty.

This book earned 4 out of 5 stars from me!

This time the story centers on Lydie Stoltzfus who is the daughter of the Bishop. She's absolutely delightful but she's also a disaster just waiting to happen. These mishaps not only bother Lydie but they also frustrate those around her. The arrival of her grandmother just exacerbates the situation. Actually the arrival of grandma throws the whole household into chaos.

In the midst of this storm the only calm seems to be with Lydie's neighbor and childhood friend Nathan Yoder. He's been smitten with Lydie for some time but has been thrown for a loop when she suddenly decides to distance herself from him.

The story itself allows the reader to step inside the world of someone with ADHD. It's something that we hear about in the English world quite frequently but probably don't think much about it being present among the Amish. I thought it was very enlightening to picture how this disorder would be handled among the Plain community.

Of course the subject is serious, but do not fear that it would be an emotionally heavy read. Just when things get to be depressing you can always count on Hank Lapp bulldozing onto the scene to lighten thing up.

I absolutely adore a trip to Stoney Ridge and recommend this and other Stoney Ridge books to anyone who needs a little lift to their spirit.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

In Anything But Plain, Suzanne Woods Fisher introduces us to a young woman who is “anything but plain” in the traditional Amish sense.

Lydia “Lydie” Stoltzfus, a young Amish girl, seems to be an accident waiting to happen. Everything she does or attempts to do, it seems, ends in failure or turns into a disaster. Her track record of failing jobs is infamous and legendary.

Nathan Yoder struggles to assist his father in managing their farm, which has deteriorated from outmoded and destructive agricultural practices.

Despite the fact that Lydie and Nathan care for one another, external factors (including Lydie) work against their relationship. Can kindhearted "Dok," the neighborhood physician and Lydie's relative, help?

I always enjoy reading Suzanne Woods Fisher's books, and this one is no exception. I especially enjoyed the premise of the story. Her Amish stories are real and wholesome. Anything But Plain will deeply move you and tug mightily on your heartstrings.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit through NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

Suzanne Woods Fisher has a way with writing stories that make the reader really ponder. She tackles tough subjects. Anything but Plain brings us back to Stoney Ridge. Lydie Stoltzfus, the youngest of the Bishop's daughter, has felt a failure all of her life. She has been fired from every job she has ever held. No one wants to hire her. Nathan Yoder claims to love her, but will she only disappoint him as well? Pondering leaving Stoney Ridge, Lydie agrees to help the local doctor at the front desk until she decides. While working with the doctor, it is discovered that she has a rare condition in the Amish Community. Will her treatment help to keep her in the community?
So many times symptoms are overlooked in our society. We treat people harshly without knowing a cause for their behavior. I love how Ms. Fisher brought the symptom awareness and diagnosis to light. I really enjoy visiting Stoney Ridge and loved this story. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

I have enjoyed all of Suzanne Wood Fisher’s books that take place in Stoney Ridge. This book did not disappoint as a book in the setting I love a hard time putting the book down and wanted to know how everything was going to play out in the end.
Lydie has great intentions, but she doesn’t seem to get things right. She begins to question where she might belong because it certainly doesn’t seem to be with the Plain people. She is tired of disappointing her father most of all.
Through many events, Lydie’s aunt thinks she knows what is happening with Lydie. The book was a marvelous perspective on ADHD as well as solutions to help people who struggle. As a parent of a child with ADHD, it helped me view it differently with a new perspective.
I would definitely recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

Anything but plain by Suzanna Woods Fisher

Anything written by Susanna Woods Fisher is great. She is a excellent writer when in comes to stories of the Amish community.

"Anything But Plain" is one great read. The story is about Lydia Stoltzfus. She is a Amish young lady that is at the point of staying with the Amish community or leaving it. She has struggled with the thought that she is different till someone may have the answer.

Lydia is a strong character, like so many, in this story. I love how you feel like your part of the story. It is a page-turner!

I would recommend this book to others.

I rate this a 5out of 5

I received this complimentary book from Revell for a honest review. All thought and opinions are mine and my alone

Good book that brings to light a disorder that can be helped. I will be recommending this to our library patrons.

This is another book about the people, Amish, of Stoney Ridge. There are many characters from other books, including Bishop David Stoltzfus. This kind of made it feel like you were visiting old friends.

The characters were well-developed and believable. The story flowed well and kept my interest. It also looked at autism through fresh eyes.

The only thing I didn't like about the story is that it left some things too open, but maybe they will be picked up in the next novel.

I really enjoyed this book. It shows God in quiet ways, not preachy at all. I rarely give 5-star reviews and this comes close but I do give it a definite 4-star review. I was given a copy of this book through the Revell Reads program and this review is freely given and my own opinion.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of those authors whose books I tend to read without needing to know anything about them. She has solid writing, and I always enjoy her books.

Anything but Plain has a unique storyline where an Amish young woman doesn't feel she fits in with her community but learns the reason she doesn't fit is because of a medical condition. I have never seen this particular topic discussed in Amish fiction before (and I have read a TON of Amish fiction).

The male lead also explores an avenue not commonly written about in Amish fiction. It's interesting to see both characters struggle with their families as well.

Anything but Plain shows what happens when jealousy and bitterness are left to stew too long. It deals with themes of sin, forgiveness, being different, healing, and hope. There are many layers to this story, but the story comes together nicely, although I felt it was a rather abrupt ending.

Thank you to Net Galley and Revell for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Anything But Plain is written by one of my favorite Amish Fiction authors Suzanne Woods Fisher. This book is well written and the storyline was unique. It's not often that you can read a story that has ADHD affecting the Amish. I felt the author did careful research and really brought awareness to something that affects so many.

Lyndie knows she is not like other girls - she is different. For this she wants to leave the Plain People. She takes a temporary job as a front office in a medical office. The doctor that she works for starts to notice some things that he wants to check out. Nathan is Lyndie's neighbor. He really cares for her - but his father keeps reminding Lyndie that she is not good enough for his son. I felt bad for Lyndie. I know when you are told something over and over you start to believe it.

I loved the character development in this book. The characters were real feeling and really came to life off the pages. I loved the research and accuracy the author put in with regards to ADHD. I have two children who have it - and it's something that is a life style to adapt with.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

This engaging story bursts with twists and surprises as we follow Lydie Stoltzfus and her struggles fitting in among her Amish community. The author explores identity, honesty, and forgiveness among other things in this heart-tugging novel. It also addresses ADHD as well as the conflict between organic farming and using chemicals. I enjoyed the way the author combined all these elements into an intriguing tale set in a place her readers know well, Stoney Ridge. Whether you have read her other work with many of these characters or not, this book stands as a complete story, which anyone who likes gardening should appreciate. Whether you prefer Amish dramas or not, this fiction will speak to you on multiple levels—it’s much more that a regular Amish story or contemporary fiction. The authentic characters and a compelling plot will draw you in. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #AnythingbutPlain #NetGalley

I always like to “research” where a book title comes into the story. Anything But Plain had a double meaning for me. Plain is what the Amish are called and Lydie felt like she didn’t belong in her community or even her family. But I also thought anything but plain could also relate to any of us. We are each special, created by God in His own image.
The characters were interesting to get to know. Lydie was having problems with her everyday life. Being consistently late, unorganized, never finishing a task, and concentrating were just a few of her issues. She kept getting fired from jobs and was constantly criticized by her grandmother. She wanted to “jump the fence” and leave the Amish. Lydie’s life began to change when her aunt, a doctor, gave her a diagnosis and ways to cope. But she still had setbacks.
Nathan, her next door neighbor and childhood friend, was being put down because he wanted to make their vegetable farm pure with no pesticides or chemicals. His brother Mick, who used chemicals for the farm, was put in a “contest” with Nathan by their Dad. They each had half the land to work with and at the end of harvest whoever had the best yield would inherit the whole farm as their own.
Nathan was doing well until an unfortunate incident sabotaged his efforts. What lessons will be learned by both these friends? Will they be able to move forward?
There were a few “bad apple” characters that made me dislike them immensely! But I even learned lessons from this story. I am quick to “judge” and slow to forgive but some characters in his book taught me a thing or two about loving all and praying for them. I enjoy when a book can make me think and even re-evaluate my life and this one was certainly one that did that!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise. All opinions are strictly my own.

It has been a while since I have visited Stoney Ridge and I was pleasantly surprised when this story was about Lydie Stoltzfus, Bishop David's daughter. Lydie is a woman who is easily distracted, so much so that it causes humorous situations in her life and others. Unfortunately, nobody finds at the time the situations remotely funny. I did while reading her story and yet I felt for her too as she obviously had something else going on. It took her aunt, Dok, to everyone to realize that she had ADHD and showed her exercises and ways to deal with it. In the meantime, her family life is exploding too.

Bishop David is about to get a surprise he does not want nor appreciates. Actually, none of his family does either. His mother, Tillie, is going to stay with him and help him get his life, store, and community back on track. At least where she thinks they should be, and never mind that he has a wife who is his help mate. Tillie is an overbearing, overopinionated, and oftentimes rude woman. Scaring and making life uncomfortable for her children, grandchildren, and even the neighbors. She scares them all. David needs to figure out something.

While all of this family drama is going on in the Stoltzfus home, their neighbors, the Yoder's are having quite a time as well. Nathan Yoder is very smart, and he wants to bring their family farm back into a profitable healthy farm again. His two biggest opponents are his father and brother. Not only that, but he is in love with Lydie.

This book was enjoyable even with all the family drama going around, and many times I laughed out loud. I also liked reading Nathan's very intelligent work on why organic farming was best for the plants, the soil, and the good bugs. Very interesting farming techniques. Dok's tips on helping Lydie cope and live with her ADHD were encouraging and educational as well. An Amish story yes, but full of practical life tips.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

I believe that this has been one of my favorite books by this author and one of my favorite stories this year. I love the romance. I love how this book talks about ADHD and how it can affect people differently. I loved Lydie and Nathan. I loved reading about what all one has to do to actually be called an organic farmer. I did not want to put the book down. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

ANYTHING BUT PLAIN hooked me from the very first page! I’ve never read a story about Amish special needs children and this one really will pull on the reader’s heart strings. ANYTHING BUT PLAIN is filled with forgiveness, family, and love and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Suzanne Woods Fisher was taking us and what would happen to this family. There is so much heart in Suzanne’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. Now I need to figure out how to fit more of Suzanne’s books into my reading plans!

ANYTHING BUT PLAIN is not the first book I’ve read by Suzanne Woods Fisher and it won’t be the last. She has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go and now I’m kicking myself for not making time to read all of her books! Shocking twists and turns I never saw coming blew my mind and the humor kept me laughing so much. As with all of Suzanne Woods Fisher’s books, this is another awesome read! Filled with a host of secrets coming from all directions, ANYTHING BUT PLAIN is sure to capture your attention and give you several hours of enjoyable entertainment.

Once I started reading ANYTHING BUT PLAIN it was very hard to stop. Even though it is 320 pages it was a very quick read. My emotions were all over the place and the special needs Lydie is dealing with, won my heart right away. My heart broke for Nathan with him not understanding what kept Lydie away from him and his heart. He never gave up on her and I was cheering for him all the way! I’m so excited to read more by this wonderful author. Suzanne has a way of telling a story that completely absorbs the reader and makes them feel like they are part of the story. Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite Amish authors and I love devouring her books.

I was given a copy of this book by CelebrateLit and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

In Anything but Plain, Suzanne Woods Fisher explores what ADD and ADHD would look like in a community where steadiness, purposefulness, and diligent attention to tasks is a way of living out faith. Poor Lydie just doesn’t understand that much of what she despises in herself is hardwired into her brain. She also can’t see that the things she thinks she needs to “fix” most are part of what Nathan Yoder loves most about her.

Mix up a father who only wants the best for his daughter (misguided as he is) and another father who only wants the best for his son (even more misguided and less sympathetic), and you’ve got a mess on your hands.

Can I just say that I love how while Suzanne Woods Fisher doesn’t idolize the Amish, neither does she grab onto unjust stereotypes and exploit them? I’m sick to death of the evil bishop trope, and here she shows a bishop who could be “the bad guy” but instead, is a loving father who just doesn’t understand. Ironic, isn’t it? How often do young people think their parents “just don’t understand” when those parents really do! (And it’s often why they are so determined to send their kids in another direction!) However, this father’s motives, deep down, are loving rather than solely self-serving, and I appreciated that.

Anything but Plain will capture your heart from the first page until the last–even if Amish Fiction isn’t your jam. Because this isn’t just genre fiction–it’s Christian fiction at its finest. Bravo, Ms. Fisher!