Author J. M. Hochstetler

Enthralling historical fiction that brings the past alive . . .

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The Return
Book 2 of the Northkill Amish Series

Ripped from their home.
Separated from one another.
Can the captives find their way back?

In this deeply moving conclusion to the Northkill Amish Series, Joseph and Christian are adopted into separate Delaware clans and families and gradually reconcile to their new lives. Jakob, however, plots a perilous escape in spite of overwhelming odds against succeeding. But even if he can get away, could he survive a harrowing journey over the hundreds of miles of rugged terrain that lie between him and his Northkill community? Does home still exist? Are his older son and daughter, Johannes and Barbara, still alive? Will he ever find his boys and bring them home?

5-Star Review from Evangelical Church Library Association

Beginning where the first book left off, this historical novel follows the lives of Jakob Hochstetler and his two sons, Joseph and Christian. Having been captured by local Indian tribes and now separated from his sons, Jakob struggles with plans of escape while longing to learn what happened to his boys. Joseph and Christian are each forced to grapple with their religious faith in the midst of the Indian’s religion and their new homes among their captors.

The Return puts the reader into the shoes of the characters, showcasing how difficult the decisions are that the Hochstetlers have to make.

Nicely paced and engaging, this book draws together historical elements, cultural differences, and internal human struggles. The Return puts the reader into the shoes of the characters, showcasing how difficult the decisions are that the Hochstetlers have to make. It guides the readers through their own beliefs by exploring the minds and emotions of each of these fictional characters. This book continues to deliver well written descriptions and dialogue that make the setting and times come alive in the mind of the reader.

The Return masterfully paints a picture of the life of Jakob Hochstetler and his family, with the bulk of the book spanning nine years. It forces readers to examine feelings related to racism and cultural differences, as well as human love, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice. Competently bringing together the genres of historical, Christian, and Amish fiction, The Return is a sequel worth reading.

This book forces readers to grapple with the morality of hard decisions that do not have simple yes or no answers. It looks at issues from varied perspectives, showing the reader multiple interpretations of individual dilemmas. This book also highlights the idea that God has a plan in the end; no matter what happens, He can be trusted.

Theresa M. Hughes, professional writing major, Taylor University

Valley of the Shadow
Book 5 of the American Patriot Series

With the American army facing another desperate winter, Carleton races to reach Elizabeth, held aboard a British prison ship in New York Harbor. Can he save them both from the Valley of the Shadow?

“An outstanding series. The American Patriot books are the most complete, complex, and textured retelling of the Revolutionary War I’ve found in historical fiction. Hochstetler is not only a masterful storyteller, but a genuine historian. These are timeless classics, destined to be read—and relished—more than once.” —Jocelyn Green, award-winning author of the Heroines Behind the Lines Civil War Series

“Reading J. M. Hochstetler’s The American Patriot Series is like watching a thrilling historical television mini-series. With each new season, something new enthralls the reader and keeps her coming back for more. In the long-awaited Book Five: Valley of the Shadow, Hochstetler maintains her gripping action, suspense, and star-crossed romance. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend this latest installment in a very fine, meticulously researched American Revolution series.” —Louise M. Gouge, author of Then Came Love

“In Valley of the Shadow, master wordsmith J. M. Hochstetler has woven together an enthralling page turner brimming with authentic history, thrilling suspense, breathtaking description, and memorable characters. The love letters written between Jonathan and Elizabeth are among the most beautiful and emotive I’ve ever read. The golden thread running throughout this intricate tapestry depicts a loving God who will bring about the best for those who love and trust Him no matter the circumstances. I eagerly await Book Six in this amazing series, The American Patriot.” —Susan F. Craft, SIBA award-winning author of The Chamomile and Laurel

Northkill is the winner of Foreword Reviews’ 2014 INDIEFAB Book of the Year Bronze Award in historical fiction!

“Based on a true happening in Pennsylvania history, Northkill is one of the finest novels of the American frontier I have ever read. Convicting, moving, evocative, vivid and more, this is a story that stays with you. The issues raised within had me examining my own faith and convictions and marveling at how well the authors linked present and past as they shared their family heritage. A novel to savor again and again.” —Laura Frantz, author of the Ballantyne Legacy series

“The spirited wordplay and attraction between Elizabeth and Jonathan keep the book moving at a quick pace. But the real strength lies in the well-crafted research and historical details that illuminate the brick mansions of Beacon Hill, the bustling alleyways of downtown Boston, and the carnage of Bunker Hill . . . Daughter of Liberty will appeal to fans of historical fiction, strong female characters, smart romance novels, and series. At the end of the story, the reader undeniably will want to tuck into the next American Patriot book to learn more about how Elizabeth and Jonathan are helping to craft the future of a young and fledgling America.” —Dana Rae Laverty, ForeWord Magazine

In One Holy Night “J. M. Hochstetler dug deep into the well of emotions and came up with a story that strikes the heartstrings in a tender and yet also provocative manner. The characters are so well drawn, they’ve stayed in my mind long after reading the book, almost as if they were real people that I’ve known for a long time. Being the daughter of a Vietnam Vet, I also appreciated Hochstetler’s gentle handling of one of the most tumultuous times in our country’s history. And even though it’s set during the Vietnam era, there are lessons to be learned and truths to be taken away from this beautifully crafted story for today. Highly recommended.” —Kaye Dacus, author of Follow the Heart