Authors New to Me



Dale Cramer

 When I started this blog, my intention was to talk about books that I enjoyed as well as authors whose work impressed me greatly. I have found several authors who were new to me-- Dan Walsh, Denise Jones, Ann Tatlock, Karen Witemeyer, to name just a few.

But my greatest surprise has been finding Dale Cramer, an author of Amish fiction. I've devoured three of his books and am waiting for the next one in his series as soon as it's available at my library.

I downloaded Paradise Valley on my Kindle, the first in the series The Daughters of Caleb Bender, and when I finally got around to reading it, I was blown away. Cramer took experiences from his family history in the 1920s and wove them into an unforgettable saga. Next, I went to the library and checked out Levi's Will. As was my custom, I read the author's musings in the back and in the prologue. I like to know about the book before I start it. I learned that the main character was the author's grandfather and this was a true story which took place during the time of World War II. The lead character left his Amish home and became an "Englischer", living in the world, working a job, and fighting in a World War in spite of his Pacifist roots.

Then I read the second book in The Daughters of Caleb Bender series, The Captive Heart. I devoured that book in two days. My, what adventures this family and several others had while establishing an Amish settlement in Mexico. They suffered an outbreak of diphtheria and were stalked by Mexican bandits, yet they would not defend themselves with weapons.

The third book Though Mountains Fall, is on my list next, as soon as it becomes available at the library. I can hardly wait to get it in my hands and I know nothing will get done around my house when I bring that book home, until it is finished. Amazon's page about Dale Cramer states that he writes like T. Davis Bunn and Gilbert Morris. I have read many of Gilbert Morris's books, and I can agree with that. Cramer wove wonderful stories of romance and adventure throughout each of the books I read.

Most Amish writers are women and I have read books written by many of them-- Beverly Lewis, Wanda Brunstetter, Beth Wiseman, Cindy Woodsmall-- and new authors of Amish fiction are coming on the scene every day. Dale Cramer has a unique style. If you have not read any of his books, you should treat yourself and try one. His book, Paradise Valley, may still be available for Kindle for a free download. I hope you will check it out.