I thought I would share one of my favorite things with you today. I have a love of stories about the Amish. I enjoy the simple way of life they lead and sometimes envy it. Although their lives are simple they are not without complications. Reading the many stories both fiction and nonfiction most center around some personal trial.

Earlier today I had the opportunity to sit in on a chat with one of my favorite Amish authors Cindy Woodsmall. She has a way of writing about her characters that makes you wish the book would never end and you could continue to follow the story. You can check out Cindy Woodsmall on Amazon and see a listing of all her books that are available.

If you are starting to think about Christmas I highly recommend picking up a copy of The Sound of Sleigh Bells for a good read for yourself or for a gift. The following is a summary of the book.

Beth Hertzler works alongside her beloved Aunt Lizzy in their dry goods store, and serving as contact of sorts between Amish craftsmen and Englischers who want to sell the Plain people’s wares. But remorse and loneliness still echo in her heart everyday as she still wears the dark garb, indicating mourning of her fiancé. When she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth’s soul responds and she wants to help the unknown artist find homes for his work–including Lizzy’s dry goods store. But she doesn’t know if her bishop will approve of the gorgeous carving or deem it idolatry.

Lizzy sees the changes in her niece when Beth shows her the woodworking, and after Lizzy hunts down Jonah, the artist, she is all the more determined that Beth meets this man with the hands that create healing art. But it’s not that simple–will Lizzy’s elaborate plan to reintroduce her niece to love work? Will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she’s always dreamed of and a second chance at real love–or just more heartbreak?

One of the nice things about The Sound of Sleigh Bells is it is a short read. So those of you who feel like you don’t have time for a book can squeeze this story in easily.

If you find you enjoy this book make sure to check out other books by Cindy Woodsmall. If you are already familiar with her then don’t miss out on The Bridge of Peace: A Novel (An Ada’s House Novel) which was released August 31, 2010.