Lost my attention at times. ( )

An interesting view into the life of the Pennsylvania Amish, and a feel-good story overall, but it bogs down and stalls about two thirds of the way through into what feels like the main character complaining about every little thing in her life. Could have used better editing. Still somewhat enjoyable if you'd like a peek into the Amish world. ( )

Another great Amish novel from Sarah Price! A mother who is constantly beset with requests (or demands) of help feels herself being worn down. She keeps giving but everything is starting to lose its luster. She keeps praying to God to give her back her zeal and positivity but each day is a challenge. After her emotionally abusive and alcoholic husband died in accident she spent a few lonely years with her two children until she was approached by a widower and re-married. Things have been mostly good - but he's not use to children or living on a farm. Sometimes he's harsher on his new wife then intended - and to top it off there is a new Amish woman working at his leather shop who is causing all sorts of problems. A quick and satisfying read that obviously has a happy ending. ( )

Sarah Price is an author whose books I shall be watching out for in the future. I have read very few books based on the Amish and this is the first that I have read by this author. Usually a book takes me a few days to read, but this book certainly had me hooked. Hooked to the point that I had sore eyes from reading this book within the day!

I seldom write a synopsis, as I always afraid of spoiling a good story for others. Rosanna Zook was the main character in the book and one to whom I could easily relate to as a mother. It is not surprising that she ended up with depression with friends and family expecting too much from her and being unable to say ‘no’ due to her beliefs. I could feel for Nan, as I do have some knowledge of mental health issues.

I would certainly recommend this book, which deserves it’s 5 stars. I was lucky to receive this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. ( )

An Empty Cup by Sarah Price is an Amish novel. In the beginning Rosanna is married to Timothy Zook. He was so sweet when they were courting, but he was hiding the fact that he drank. After their marriage the drinking continued to get worse especially after the birth of their daughter, Cate. Timothy doted on his son, Aaron but would not have anything to do with Cate. One night Timothy got into his buggy drunk and was hit by a car.

Three years pass and Rosanna is courted by Rueben Troyer. Rueben owns Troyer Harness Shop and is a kind, gentle man. Rueben and Rosanna marry. Rueben moves out to the farm and rents out his home next to the harness shop (it was too small for the married couple along with the two children). To spend more time with his family, Rueben hires newcomer Nan Keel to help in the harness shop.

Nan and her brother, Samuel come from a different district. Nan is ambitious, zealous, and rude. She is not like the other women in their community. Nan’s main focus is expanding the harness shop. Soon Rueben starts coming home later and becomes critical (and demanding). Rosanna keeps quiet and just continues to help. Rosanna is unable to say no when asked for help. Rosanna is a giver. She continues to run the household, take care of the garden, and much more. She starts experiencing anxiety attacks (though she does not know that is what they are). Slowly Rosanna becomes quieter and starts shutting down. Rueben is so busy with the shop that he does not notice.

Rosanna also has to deal with a problem neighbor. Gloria is their non-Amish neighbor who continually harasses the family over the low fence. It gets so bad that Rosanna nor Cate wants to work in their garden. Rueben refuses to address the issue.

When one of the preachers passes away, Rueben draw the lot to become the new preacher. This is just too much for Rosanna and she shuts down. To find out what is wrong with Rosanna, please read An Empty Cup.

I give An Empty Cup 4 out of 5 stars. It is well-written and has a good message, but it is not a novel that will make you smile. An Empty Cup deals with a serious issue and Sarah Price handles it beautifully. It is important to remember that an empty cup cannot give!

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ( )