Her Reluctant Amish Heart ~ Review

Her Reluctant Amish Heart

Humble Blessings #3

By Pamela Desmond Wright

Elam Muller pulled away from his Amish roots following the death of his parents. He sought a feeling of belonging, and he thinks he's found that in the Englisch world and his love of fixing automobiles. But when he makes a decision that could have cost a young man his life, Elam's life is upended, and he finds himself doing community service on the very farm of the young man who was hurt. 

Anika Glick's life is a mess. After a tragic accident changed everything, the last thing she needed was for her younger brother to be injured when a former Amish young man makes a selfish decision. When Elam Mueller shows up at her door to work off his community service hours, well, she is not pleased. 

But as Elam helps out, Anika comes to realize just how much her life has changed in the last couple of years, of how much she has lost. And Elam discovers how much he gave up when he left the faith and beliefs that guided him before he lost his way. But can he give up the outside world, the excitement, the cars, the racing for a simple life?

This was a good read that showed how loss affects people differently. Both Anika and Elam respond differently, but at the root of both their reactions is pain and grief. As they work together, their lives begin to change, and their hearts open up to new possibilities. But can they truly break free of the shackles of their old destructive choices? If you're a fan of sweet romance, second chances, and Amish fiction, I would recommend this book, which can be read as a standalone title. And as this is a Love Inspired title, you can be assured of a clean read, wholesome level one romance, and a satisfactory ending with a happily-ever-after in their future.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Can her guarded heart

find its way to love and redemption?

When a reckless street race injures her brother, Anika Glick wants nothing to do with the man responsible—especially when he’s sentenced to help her family. But Elam Muller is desperate to prove he’s changed. As they work together on her family farm, Anika finds herself drawn to Elam’s remorse and kindness. But when they're presented with one last risky race that could secure their future or destroy it all, everything they’ve built is put to the test. Will their growing love survive the pull of the past—or will it all come crashing down?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

An Amish Widow's Hope ~ Review

An Amish Widow's Hope

By Pamela Desmond Wright

Evan Miller left his Amish roots behind sixteen years ago, following a personal tragedy. But he left more than a way of life behind when he chose a law enforcement career; he left his family, the woman he loved, and his peace. Everything he has given up becomes clear when he answers a call at Isla Stohl's home. Regrets have never tasted so bitter. 

When Evan left without a word, Isla's world and life were thrown into chaos. She married and had a family, but it wasn't the life she and Evan had planned. Now Isla is widowed and struggling to make ends meet when she is robbed. She never expected Evan to walk back into her life, leading the investigation as sheriff.

As Evan does what he can to solve this rash of burglaries in the Amish community, he is put at a fork in the road, so to speak. What does he want from the rest of his life?  And then there is Isla. Could they have a chance at the future they had once dreamed of before he made a decision that should have been theirs to make, not his?  

An Amish Widow's Hope is a story of second chances, new beginnings, and finding one's way back home. There is a touch of mystery involved, but the focus is on rebuilding what has been lost and family. All said, this was a lovely read, and one I would highly recommend to those looking for clean reads and love stories that feature the power of redemption and forgiveness.

I was gifted a copy of this book by the author with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Regrets from the past

could lead to a chance for redemption…

After a terrifying break-in, widowed dressmaker Isla Stohl finds herself leaning on town sheriff Evan Miller. Sixteen years ago, Evan chose a law enforcement career over her and their Texas Amish community, and now he’s determined to make amends. Evan vows to keep Isla and her two children safe, but old feelings begin to arise once more. As he’s drawn back to his heritage and faith, he must decide if he can leave behind the life he built for himself in the Englisch world for the woman he’s never been able to let go of.

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness, and hope.

Available to purchase at:

 ChristianBooks.com,  Target.com, Walmart.com, Amazon.com

You can find more of  Pamela's Amish books online at Harlequin.com.

About the Author:

Pamela Desmond Wright
New York Times & Publishers Weekly bestselling author Pamela Desmond Wright grew up in a small, dusty Texas town. Like the Amish, Pamela is a fan of the simple life. Her childhood includes memories of the olden days: old-fashioned oil lamps, cooking over an authentic wood-burning stove, and making popcorn over a crackling fire at her grandparents' cabin. The cabin was later donated to The Muleshoe Heritage Center in Muleshoe, Texas, where it can be viewed by the public. 

For more info, visit Pamela online at: www.pameladesmondwright.com

Unforgiven ~ Review

Unforgiven

Shelley Shepard Gray

One hears about the forgiving spirit of the Amish community and the dislike of anger and violence, Unforgiven paints a far different story for those who live within the community and stray from the dictated way. 

Seth Zimmerman made a mistake when he accidentally killed a man while protecting someone else. But his actions put him in jail, allowing English influences to change him. And if certain rumors are to be believed, he wasn't as innocent as he claimed, nor was the young woman he aided.

Tabitha Yoder was the community's schoolteacher until her husband demanded that she give up the position. When she filed for divorce after she was abused, it didn't elicit sympathy. Rather, she was expelled from the community. After all, her husband deserved a second chance and she didn't give it to him.

Two people are judged for doing what they felt was right. Victims are re-victimized. And forgiveness is withheld from themselves. For both Seth and Tabitha yes their own community didn't step up and support them as they should but both were also driven by their own guilt in the incidents that marked their lives. 

This book explores tragic events and the impact they have on the lives of those involves years later. This book explores the guilt we carry for what at the time seemed like a simple right or left question and the consequences were so much larger. This is a well-written book that makes one think and I love books that make me think. This isn't your typical Amish read, but something much better.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Ex-con Seth Zimmerman has spent the last three years making amends by helping the vulnerable in his former Amish community. Lately, this mission includes calling on Tabitha Yoder, whose divorce from her abusive husband has isolated her from the community. Even though she never comes out of her house to talk to him, Seth knows she watches him from the window while he chops wood, clears her driveway, and drops off food.

An uneasy friendship is just starting to take hold between them when small gifts begin to appear at Tabitha's home--gifts that can only be from her ex-husband. Seth might be Tabitha's only hope at maintaining her hard-won freedom from the man whose violent outbursts had almost cost her life. But coming to her rescue might mean he ends up behind bars once again.

Get swept up in this emotional story of two outcasts who may be each other's only hope for happiness and redemption from New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray.

Her Secret Hope ~ Review

Her Secret Hope

A Season in Pinecraft #3

By Shelley Shepard Gray

Lilly Kurtz wants to reset her life, leaving her past and her sense inferiority behind.  Pinecraft, Florida, is the perfect place to start over. She has friends there and it's comfortable.  

With a job at the Bed and Breakfast that she first stayed in two years ago, Lilly's new life is on track. What Lilly never expected was to find the possibility of love so soon after leaving Ohio behind. 

Eddie Byler has taken time from his busy life as a farmer to bring his grandmother on a vacation to Florida. But Eddie is in more need of a break from his busy life than his grandmother. Since his plans for the future and a family were shattered he's been all about work. Lilly has managed to make an impact on him with her sweet and caring personality. And the time she's given to his grandmother is even more important to him.

But Lilly has a secret, one she knows will change everything. One that she's afraid to share. One that shows she's not worthy of love.

Her Secret Hope is an excellent read. This book delves into the feelings that can plague someone who has been adopted. Not knowing why has a way of affecting the way one thinks, feels, and interacts with and around others. This book is moving and in a way explains Lilly desire to please and do her best. When an incident occurs and her new life is thrown into disarray, Lilly is faced with a choice - run from the past yet again or face it. 

 I really enjoyed this book. The depths of emotion that were presented as Lilly faced new challenges were moving. One could feel her anguish when accusations were made against her. Her shock at being treated as she was. The adage of the customer is always right even when they are wrong is on full display here and such a policy is most definitely wrong if absolutely enforced all the time. Let's just say I would have been in tears too. 

This is the best book in the series, and can be read as a standalone title if you haven't read the previous two books. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys contemporary or Amish fiction.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Almost two years after Lilly Kurtz first traveled to Pinecraft, Florida, with friends, she's decided to make a fresh start there. She's ready to be new-and-improved Lilly, a Lilly without a past, a Lilly with no secrets. At first, everything goes well. She gets a job, her coworkers feel like family, and she enjoys reconnecting with her friends. But it turns out the past is reluctant to be left behind.

When Lilly meets hardworking farmer Eddie Byler, she can't get him off of her mind. But then she discovers that Eddie actually lives just a few miles from her hometown in Ohio. Lilly knows that he's not going to like it when he finds out what secrets she's been running from. And she knows she could never follow the man she's falling in love with back to a place where she's never felt accepted.

Will Lilly have to give up on love in order to find peace? Or could it be that love is actually the solution to all of her problems?

Lost and Found ~ Review

Lost and Found

By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Sometimes we allow the holds of the past to take root and keep us from actually moving on, from growing up. This is a story of friendship that has the hope of becoming something more, until a message from the past convinces Micah Weaver to take actions he might not have. 

Trudy Yoder has long had feelings for Micah. But for years Micah could only see her older sister Shelley. But their shared enjoyment over birding, finding that one unique bird, locating a hidden nest has allowed them to form a friendship. And now Trudy has hopes for a future with Micah. But then Shelley intrudes even though she is miles and miles way. And until Micah can truly decide what he wants she will always be a second choice.

This book is set in Stoney Ridge, which is a little like visiting a familiar haunt. The setting and characters are comfortable and known (IF you've read any of the author's other Stoney Ridge books /series). And what is nice about this book is if you haven't read any previous Stoney Ridge books you can fully enjoy this one. The author writes in such a way that each book can be read as a standalone title. The story is complete in and of itself. 

I feel that that this book is a story about growing up. Yes, Micah is in all senses of the word a grown-up but he needs to mature internally. He needs to make the decision to move on in his life to the next place that he needs to be. This doesn't mean physically moving, though it is a possibility for those living in Stoney Ridge. No rather this is a mental moving forward, a mindset to move on to the next phase of his life. And this journey is one that offers a most intriguing story in the process. 

I really like books that are about internal growth. And no this isn't a self-help book but rather in the entertaining it provides an opportunity to look internally at one's own life. And it is just a subtle thread so if you are reading just for the story it isn't something that will jump out and go "Look at this. Key moment of internal change coming up." No I think it is something that is all about mindset and during the reading certain scenes they just clicked with me.

But no matter how you read this was an enjoyable book and one I would recommend. It isn't a heavy read and easily read over a few days or if you like to consume your books as soon as you get them a long afternoon could certainly be undertaken and enjoyed. And the title Lost and Found perfectly suits.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Trudy Yoder shares a passion for birding with Micah Weaver--and she has an even greater passion for Micah. Their friendship is finally turning romantic when Micah abruptly grows cold. Worse still, he wants to leave Stoney Ridge.

Micah Weaver thought he was over Trudy's older sister. A year and a half ago, Shelley had broken his heart when she ran away from Stoney Ridge to pursue a singing career in Nashville. Then, out of the blue, she's started to leave distressing phone messages for him.

When the bishop asks for volunteers to scout out a possible church relocation in Tennessee, Micah is the first to raise his hand. Despite scant details, he's confident he can find Shelley. After all, his reputation as a field guide is based on finding birds that don't want to be found.

What Micah doesn't know is that what you're looking for isn't always what you find.

Hunted For Christmas ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Hunted at Christmas by Dana R. Lynn, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Hunted at Christmas
Amish Country Justice
By Dana R. Lynn

Addison Johnson is a wanted woman and she has no idea until a hitman nearly ends her before bounty hunter Isaiah Bender stops him. What Addison doesn't understand is why someone is after her. Even more shocking she's been accused of crimes shenever committed. 

Convinced of Addison's innocence Isaiah agrees to help her and her son stay safe until they can get the answers they need. Even if it means he has to return to the life he never wanted to return to. Returning to his Amish life and the family left behind all those years ago is difficult. But when his need to protect Addison puts everyone in danger he needs to redouble his efforts and seek help he never thought he'd need to ask for. But family is there for you as he soon learns.

Get ready for heart pounding excitement almost from the first word as action quickly finds Addison on the run for not only her life but that of her three-year-old son. Faith maybe the only thing that will get them through thecrisis they find themselves in the midst of!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Hunted at Christmas
Series: Amish Country Justice
Author: Dana R. Lynn
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Wanted by a bounty hunter. 

 Chased by a killer. 

When single mother Addison Johnson is attacked by a hit man, she learns there’s a price on her head. And Isaiah Bender—the bounty hunter hired to track her down for crimes she didn’t commit—is her only hope for survival. Protecting Addison and her young son from armed assailants means seeking refuge in Amish country. But when their holiday hideout is discovered, can he clear an innocent woman’s name and keep her alive?  

From Love Inspired Suspense:

 Courage. 

Danger. 

Faith.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

 

more Amish Country Justice series titles

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About the Author

Dana R. Lynn is an award winning author of romantic suspense and Amish romance who believes in the power of God to touch people through stories. Although she grew up in Illinois, she met her husband at a wedding in Pennsylvania and told her parents she had met her future husband. Nineteen months later, they were married. Today, they live in rural Pennsylvania and are entering the world of empty nesters. She is a teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by day and writes stories of romance and danger at night. She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray with the Steve Laube Agency. Dana is an avid reader, loves cats and thinks chocolate should be a food group.

Connect with Dana by visiting danarlynn.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will win a $10 Amazon gift card, a pen and a mug!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 27, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 4, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for pen & mug. Egift card only in case of CAN winner. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Hidden Amish Target ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 

Hidden Amish Target by Dana R. Lynn, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Hidden Amish Target  
Amish Country Justice #16
By Dana R. Lynn

A case of wrong place, wrong time seems to be the recent pattern to Molly Schultz's life. First, there was an "accident" that forever scarred her family and changed her future. And now she's running for her life after witnessing the shooting of her employer. Whoever the shooter is, he wants to silence her and anyone who attempts to help her.

When she runs away, she finds herself accepting help from family friend Zeke Bender. Soon she and Zeke are caught up in something even more dangerous when the killer learns her identity.

Hidden Amish Target is a suspense-filled read that keeps the reader wondering if Molly and Zeke will survive long enough for the killer to be identified and brought to justice. I have to admit I was glad knowing this book was part of the Love Inspired Suspense collection or I would be more than a little worried as to whether there would have been a satisfying ending. The suspense was definitely in the clean-read category and the only thing to keep one up all night is wondering what came next and not nightmares from graphic descriptions.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Hidden Amish Target 
Series: Amish Country Justice #16
Author: Dana R. Lynn
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: July 25, 2023
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

She’s an accidental witness. 

Now she’s running for her life… 

Witnessing a murder puts a target on Molly Schultz’s back, and now she’s on the run from a gunman dead set on silencing her. She turns to family friend Zeke Bender for help, but when Molly’s identity and location are exposed, they’re left with a criminal among her Amish community. Can Zeke safeguard Molly long enough to catch the culprit—or will they fall prey to their merciless hunter?  

From Love Inspired Suspense: 
Courage. Danger. Faith.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

more Amish Country Justice series titles

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About the Author

Dana R. Lynn is an award-winning author of romantic suspense and Amish romance who believes in the power of God to touch people through stories. Although she grew up in Illinois, she met her husband at a wedding in Pennsylvania and told her parents she had met her future husband. Nineteen months later, they were married. Today, they live in rural Pennsylvania and are entering the world of empty nesters. She is a teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by day and writes stories of romance and danger at night. She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray with the Steve Laube Agency. Dana is an avid reader, loves cats, and thinks chocolate should be a food group.

Connect with Dana by visiting danarlynn.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

 

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will win a $10 dollar Amazon gift card & print copy of Hidden Amish Target!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 25, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 1, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for print copy. Digital copy available instead for CAN. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Her Only Wish ~ Review

Her Only Wish

A Season in Pinecraft #2

By Shelley Shepard Gray

Her Only Wish follows Betsy Detweiler, whom we were introduced to in Her Heart's Desire. Betsy has decided to return to Pinecraft, Florida, in an attempt to get out from under the excessive hovering of her family. As a young girl Betsy's asthma more than once led to her being hospitalized, and her parents have never gotten over the fear of nearly losing her. But Betsy needs to break out on her own, to convince her parents that she can handle life. She has a life list and has given herself a month to fulfill as much of it as possible.

First up on Betsy's list taking golf lessons so that she can play a round of golf. Her first foray into the world of golf finds her in the middle of the green at Snow Bird Golf Course, which isn't the safest place to be. Fortunately for her, she is spotted by August Troyer, who just so happens to be who she needs to talk to when it comes to playing golf and taking lessons. Meeting August just might be the best thing to happen to her as they both connect and quickly form a friendship that could become something more with time.

Soon Betsy meets Annie, who, with her sister Danielle has the means to help Betsy mark another item off her life list. Learning to swim is up next. But we are also given a chance to get to know Annie, who is rediscovering her sister. Where Annie and Danielle are concerned, it is interesting how Annie's observations about Danielle differed from what was taking place in her life. 

This is an excellent read. There are emotional highs and lows as the various characters work through the issues they are each facing. I enjoyed getting to know each character, and revisiting some of the characters from the first book in the series was fun. This is a book that gently pulls one into it. There isn't a sudden drop into the life-shattering action, but rather a pleasant stroll onto the beach. If you want a pleasant read that will help you unwind, I would recommend this. Depending on the character, you will either love them or wish they would log out of Skype. (You'll need to read the book to get it, but yeah, just get off Skype.)

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own. 

About the Book:

Return to Pinecraft, Florida, for a Sweet Amish Romance

Sheltered yet adventurous, Betsy Detweiler is on a mission to get out of Kentucky and experience new things in life. She's got a list--a life list. What better place to start than with her friends in beautiful Pinecraft, Florida?

From the moment Betsy walks into the Snow Bird Golf Course to sign up for lessons, August Troyer is mesmerized. Betsy is a mass of contradictions--beautiful yet awkward, outgoing yet unsure, joyful yet hesitant. She's like no one he's ever met before, and as the only child of missionary parents, he's met a lot of people.

As Betsy and August embark on a month of enjoying life to the fullest, they'll encounter several reasons to back off and play it safe. But playing it safe has its own consequences. This tender romance reminds us that life--and love--requires a fair amount of risk.

Her Heart's Desire ~ Review

Her Heart's Desire

A Season in Pinecraft #1

By Shelley Shepard Gray

Mary Margaret Miller needs to escape her Amish community. A community that has judged and condemned her based on an incident in her past, an incident that was exacerbated by the malicious lies spread by others. A vacation in Pinecraft, Florida, seems the perfect way to escape her past and allow her to be herself. Perhaps even make a friend, someone who doesn't judge her before she has a chance to meet them.

Jayson Raber has decided to make his life better than it has been. His younger sister will be provided for, and he'll have a steady job. The only catch is he has agreed to marry a girl back in Kentucky. This vacation in Pinecraft will be his last on his own. But then he meets Mary. Surely a vacation friendship is okay. 

Her Heart's Desire is the first book in the A Season in Pinecraft series. For those who don't know, Pinecraft, Florida, is a vacation destination favored by the Amish because of the small Amish / Mennonite community that calls it home. This community offers the various characters who have made this vacation destination a safe place to leave their cares and worries behind. But all too soon, the past has a way of catching up.  Each character - Mary, Betsy, Lilly, Esther, Jayson, and Michael - faces choices. Choices to remain trapped by the past with its judgments, fears, and hurts or to embrace a new future one not dictated by what was but rather what will be. I enjoyed getting to know each character as they tried to decide what would come next. Taking an honest look at one's life is often a difficult thing to do. They needed friends to help them see themselves. 

This is a contemporary fiction with a touch of romance. In my opinion, friendship is the many focus of the book. Everyone needs a friend. Friends help us deal with times of pain. They accept us for who we are, but they also help us grow to our fuller potential. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series and just what comes next for these new friends.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations, but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

What happens when we allow our 

pasts to define our futures?

Mary Margaret Miller needs an escape from her small Amish community. She boards a bus, all alone, for a vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Meeting Betsy and Lilly on the way, she's amazed to find two kindred spirits. They become fast friends and determine to have the best two weeks of their lives. For Mary, it starts when she meets Jayson Raber. The handsome and charming carpenter is taken by Mary from the get-go, but he has responsibilities back home in Kentucky--including a girl he's supposed to marry.

When someone from Mary's past shows up in Pinecraft, it seems like her perfect vacation is ruined. But that's nothing compared to what's coming when she realizes what Jayson has been hiding.

Take a vacation with New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray as she explores what happens when we allow our pasts to define our futures in this story of friendship, romance, and new beginnings.

Anything But Plain ~ Review

Anything But Plain

By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Lydie Stoltzfus has always been the "trouble child" in David Stoltzfus's family, and the scrutiny she was under only grew once he was bishop. She knows her intentions might be good, but somehow, something always goes wrong, getting her into a mess. Worse, she can't keep a job - some last mere hours before she's asked to leave (or, in some cases, ordered away).

As Lydie struggles with her inability to fit in, her neighbor, Nathan Yoder, wants to use organic farming methods on the family farm. But change doesn't come easy, and Nahan's family is all into pesticides and thinking more is better.

Anything But Plain is a standalone title set in Suzanne Woods Fisher's much-loved Stoney Ridge community. But when her "non-Amish" Aunt Ruth (aka Dok) discovers Lydie's struggles, she could hold the key to helping Lydie, giving her hope that leaving all she knows and loves might not be her only choice.

This book looks at Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and its effects on not only the life of the person with it but how it affects those around them - friends and family. But the secondary storyline of organic farming versus pesticides/herbicides is timely and important. And somehow, the author manages to weave these two threads into her story so that it doesn't feel forced or preachy. I appreciated the insights this book offers. This would be an excellent book club selection as there is much to discuss.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

It's not easy being the bishop's daughter, especially for Lydie Stoltzfus. She's not like other Amish girls, as much as she wishes she were. The only thing she does well is disappoint others. Leaving her family and church seems unbearable, but staying might be worse.

Knowing Lydie is "between" jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she's going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder--the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he's in love with her, but she knows she's not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan's father reminds her frequently.

As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of a disorder rare among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?

Bestselling and award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge, a small town that feels like an old friend.

Among the Innocent ~ Review

Among the Innocent

By Mary Alford

Ten years ago, Leah Miller was the sole survivor of an attack that stole the lives of her family. The police laid the blame on Leah's friend, who later died in an act of suicide. But it seems the police were wrong, and the killer is back, and he wants Leah to know.

Leah is now with the police, and she is determined to get justice for her family and the new victims. The new police chief Dalton Cooper is determined to prove that this new murder isn't a copycat but rather the work of the same man. But where has "John" been all these years, and why does he seem intent on not only targetting Leah but "connecting" with her?

Calling on all the forces at their disposal, Leah and Dalton work together to stop a killer who takes cruel pleasure in hurting the Amish and their daughters. But to take down this killer, the past and all its secrets must be revealed. Someone knows something - the only question is, who knows what?

I don't think I would call this book a gentle read or a cozy mystery. I wouldn't say it is overly graphic, but some of the imagery is detailed so that the horror of the crimes is more than hinted at. This book is classified as a Romantic Suspense, and as such, the two main characters are drawn to one another. Is it true romance or just a product of the stress and the personal nature of the attacks? That's something you'll have to discover for yourself when you read the book. The story's pacing is well suited to an almost desperate search for clues while not coming across as frantic. I have previously read the author's work from Love Inspired Suspense, and this is equal to those but with more to the story.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

When Leah Miller's entire Amish family was murdered ten years ago, the person believed responsible took his own life. Since then, Leah left the Amish and joined the police force. Now, after another Amish woman is found murdered with the same MO, it becomes clear that the wrong man may have been blamed for her family's deaths.

As Leah and the new police chief, Dalton Cooper, work long hours struggling to fit the pieces together in order to catch the killer, they can't help but grow closer. When secrets from both of their pasts begin to surface, an unexpected connection between them is revealed. But this is only the beginning. Could it be that the former police chief framed an innocent man to keep the biggest secret of all buried? And what will it mean for Leah--and Dalton--when the full truth comes to light?

USA Today bestselling author Mary Alford keeps you guessing as two determined souls plumb the dark depths of the past in order to forge a brighter future--together.

Finding Her Amish Home ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Finding Her Amish Home by Pamela Desmond Wright, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Finding Her Amish Home

Humble Blessings #1
By Pamela Desmond Wright

Maddie Baum is the only mother her nephew Josh can remember and she's determined to protect him from the father she blames for her twin sister's death. Leaving Pennsylvania behind for a small unknown Amish community in Wisconsin seems to be her best option.

When she gets a friendly welcome from Abram Mueller, she feels that perhaps she has found her forever home. Most welcome Maddie and Josh but not everyone is happy about an Englisher spending time as part of the community.

Finding Her Amish Home is a story of new beginnings, second chances, and hope. The story is fairly straightforward with one wondering just what Maddie isn't sharing. One is rooting for Maddie and Abram to get the family that they have wanted but seemed unattainable. This is also a story of fear - fear of what might go wrong, of rejection, and of letting go of the past and its mistakes. Overall a good story and a good fit with the Love Inspired brand.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.                                  

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Finding Her Amish Home 

Series: Humble Blessings #1 

Author: Pamela Desmond Wright 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: June 28, 2022 

Genre: Contemporary Amish Romance, Christian 

What she wants more than anything 

Could also be the most dangerous… 

After her twin sister’s death, Maddie Baum flees to Wisconsin Amish country with her nephew in tow in the hopes of protecting him from his criminal father. Befriending Amish shopkeeper Abram Mueller gives her a glimpse of the happiness she’s been yearning for all along. Can she find a fresh start with Abram—or will old sins tear them apart? 

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

  

Pamela Desmond Wright grew up in a small, dusty Texas town. Like the Amish, Pamela is a fan of the simple life. Her childhood includes memories of  the olden days; old-fashioned oil lamps, cooking over an authentic wood-burning stove and making popcorn over a crackling fire at her grandparent’s cabin. She also loves needlepoint and has dozens of projects to work on! Someday, she hopes to move into van life, living on the road as a traveling writer.

CONNECT WITH PAMELA:

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

Main Prize - (1) winner will receive a Kindle eReader 1st runner-up
(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card 2nd runner-up
(1) winner will receive a signed print copy of Finding her Amish Home and a King James version of the Bible

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 12, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 19, 2022. US only. Items may vary from image. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Amish Cradle Conspiracy ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 
Amish Cradle Conspiracy by Dana R. Lynn, 
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Amish Cradle Conspiracy
Amish Country Justice #13
By Dana R. Lynn

Someone is abducting pregnant Amish women and young children. When a possible sighting of the missing Amish woman is reported, Nicole Dawson, a sergeant with the local PD, and her partner respond. But from there, everything goes wrong - shots are fired, and officers are down. Lucy is recovered, but her toddler Leah is not. Time is against them as they look for clues as to where a young child of whom there are no photographs could be hidden away.

With lives on the line, Nicole is partnered with Jack Quinn, a special agent with the FBI, who also happens to be her ex-fiancé - YIKES! Working together is both awkward and familiar, but both are determined to focus on the case, find Leah, and bring these men to justice. 

Suspense is high in this thirteenth book in the Amish Country Justice series. Each step forward seems to bring them into even greater danger. Soon an even more heinous series of crimes comes to light. If there is any way to stop these criminals, Nicole and Jack are going to have to see what isn't easily seen, think outside of the norm, and stay alive to bring them down. 

Amish fiction with a twist is more than evident in this Love Inspired Suspense offering. And if you love clean reading romance and contemporary suspense, this is an edge-of-your-seat, late-night-read you don't want to miss! 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion ~ all thoughts expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Amish Cradle Conspiracy
Series: Amish Country Justice #13
Author: Dana R. Lynn
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: May 24, 2022
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

To protect an Amish community… 

She’ll make herself a target. 

After a pregnant Amish woman and her toddler are abducted, police sergeant Nicole Dawson charges in to save them. But when the kidnapper escapes with the child—and thinks Nicole can identify him—she becomes his new obsession. Determined to protect his ex-fiancée, FBI special agent Jack Quinn joins the case. But the clock is ticking in their race to uncover the baby-trafficking ring before another innocent is taken… 

From Love Inspired Suspense: 

Courage. 

Danger. 

Faith.

PURCHASE LINKS*: 

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

  

more Amish Country Justice series titles

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About the Author

 

Dana R. Lynn is an award-winning author of romantic suspense and Amish romance who believes in the power of God to touch people through stories. She grew up in Illinois. She met her husband at a wedding and told her parents she had met her future husband. Nineteen months later, they were married. Today, they live in rural Pennsylvania and are entering the world of empty nesters. She is a teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by day and writes stories of romance and danger at night. She is an avid reader, loves cats, and thinks chocolate should be a food group. She enjoys engaging with readers and can be found on social media or contacted via her website www.danarlynn.com. 

CONNECT WITH DANA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of Amish Cradle Conspiracy and 

a $10 Amazon gift card! (print US, ebook elsewhere)

 

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 13, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 20, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. print US only, ebook elsewhere. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Strength in the Storm ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Audiobook Blog Tour for 

Strength in the Storm by Laurel Blount, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Strength in the Storm  

Johns Mill Amish Romance #2 

By Laurel Blount 

Read by Stina Nielsen 

Emma Hochstedler's life and world were destroyed when her parents were murdered. She has been living with her grief and guilt. Her younger sister was traumatized by the event and Emma's attempts to help have only hindered her sister's healing. But Emma needs to be useful and helping the Christner family with their aunt seems to be best for everyone involved.

For years, Emma has held a special place in Sam Christner's heart she's the only one he can see a future with even if Emma can't see it. With his sister needing time to heal from the loss of her husband, Sam agrees to have Emma nurse his Aunt Ruth. And as an added bonus he can see Emma more frequently when checking on Ruth.

As Emma appears to begin thinking of Sam as more than her childhood friend, Sam experiences hopes for the future. But once again tragedy befalls the small community of Johns Mill. As Emma, Sam and those closest to them try to sort out the latest life-changing events to impact them and their community they will have to learn to lean on the strength of one another to weather and survive the coming storm. Can healing come while staying strong just for the appearance or does it come when accepting help from those who offer it? Only time will tell (and reading the book).

The audio edition of this book is excellent. The narrator does a superb job in relating the story and giving voice to the various characters. I really appreciate the depths that each character reveals. I also like seeing how Sam adjusted to his circumstances allow other newfound strengths to surface when he most needed them.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book via Libro.fm with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Strength in the Storm audiobook 

Series: Johns Mill Amish Romance #2 

Author: Laurel Blount 

Narrator: Stina Nielsen 

Publisher: Books On Tape (audiobook) 

Release Date: February 22, 2022 (audiobook) 

Genre: Amish Romance / Christian 

In this touching Amish romance, a brokenhearted woman and a steadfast man discover that the safest place to weather tragedy is in each other’s arms. 

After the murder of both her parents, Emma Hochstedler returns to the small community of Johns Mill, hoping to resume her quiet existence. Reclaiming her place proves harder than expected—especially now that a movie is being made about her family’s loss. But then, an old friend offers her a lifeline that gives her new purpose. 

Amish builder Samuel Christner is the biggest—and the strongest—man in town. In fact, the gentle giant has only one weakness—Emma. Even though she broke his heart, he won’t let his childhood sweetheart face her troubles alone. He hires Emma as a nurse for his elderly aunt…and finds himself falling for her all over again. 

But while romance blooms, storm clouds gather. And when darkness falls, it will take all Sam’s strength—and all their love—to see them through. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Books On Tape | Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author Laurel Blount writes captivating romances full of grit and grace—with characters who’ll walk right off the page and into your heart. She lives on a farm in Georgia with her husband, their four fabulous kids, and an assortment of ridiculously spoiled animals. Connect with her at www.laurelblountbooks.com

CONNECT WITH LAUREL: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway began at midnight March 21, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 28, 2022. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.