Stitches in Time ~ Review

Stitches in Time
The Deacon's Family #2
By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Luke Schrock is about to have the worst possible thing happen to him - he is about to become Stoney Ridge's newest deacon. Yup, super scary thought at least in Luke's mind and in at least half the community's too. But Luke has grown up from the troubled prankster who tormented all who had the misfortune to know him. And as his first project as a deacon, he urges members of the church to open their homes to children within Lancaster's foster system.

Mollie Graber is simply beside herself when Luke makes known his promise to Amos Lapp - she would simply LOVE to open her home to a pair of sisters in need of a loving home. And she's determined to make sure this dream becomes a possibility even if she has to bug Luke every day about it.

Sam Schrock is the brother most people don't notice, not after all of Luke's antics and he likes it that way. The one person he wants to notice him is Mollie, Stoney Ridge's newest teacher doesn't associate him with Luke's troubled years and that suits him just fine. Sam spends most of his time retraining and calming the young Thoroughbreds that he and his stepfather Galen King bring home. He just can't understand why Mollie is willing to set herself up for a world of hurt by opening her small home to foster children. He knows her heart is behind it but he knows she doesn't realize the potential trouble she is inviting in.

This is another lovely visit to Stoney Ridge that those familiar with Suzanne Woods Fisher's work will enjoy. If you are unfamiliar with her work this would be an okay book to read even though it is the second book in the series one can easily follow along (you can go back and read all the other Stoney Ridge books later). This book was particularly interesting as homes are opened to young girls who are need of temporary homes. These girls aren't Amish so it makes for a few interesting interactions between the characters. It's hard to believe that a previously almost unlikeable character can become a favorite but Luke is definitely one of those characters (I've known a few people who are like this so I know this is possible and not just a bit of fiction on the author's part). This book definitely gives one a sense of home and comfort throughout.making for a pleasurable experience.

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:

Keeping people at arm's length had worked 

well as a life strategy for Sam Schrock.

Until he met Mollie Graber.

Schoolteacher Mollie Graber has come to Stoney Ridge for a fresh start. Aware of how fleeting and fragile life is, she wants to live it boldly and bravely. When Luke Schrock, new to his role as deacon, asks the church to take in foster girls from a group home, she's the first to raise her hand. The power of love, she believes, can pick up the dropped stitches in a child's heart and knit them back together. Mollie envisions sleepovers and pillow fights. What she gets are sleepless nights and police at the door.

There's only one thing that breaks through the girls' hard shells--an interest in horses. Reluctantly and skeptically, horse trainer Sam Schrock gets drawn into Mollie's chaotic life. What he didn't expect was for love to knit together the dropped stitches in his own heart . . . just in time.

Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to the little Amish community of Stoney Ridge for a touching story of the power of love.

A Christmas Haven ~ Review

A Christmas Haven
An Amish Christmas Romance
By Cindy Woodsmall
  and Erin Woodsmall

Ivy Zook wants to leave the confinement of her Old Order Amish upbringing behind - she wants the freedom to be herself. But to do this she'll have to hurt her family and walk away from the family farm. Not wanting to leave her mother with the daily labor of the farm she pushes her mother to sell the farm. But with her sister Holly's wedding soon to be upon them Ivy temporarily postpones her plans.

Arlan Keim is desperate to get his sister Magda the medical help she needs. His family is an ultraconservative sect that shuns everything modern and any perceived sin is met with the strictest measures by their father. But when their trip for medicine ends with a crash into Greene's Pharmacy their plans are suddenly upset.

The Zooks open their home to the Keim siblings as Magda recovers and Arlan offers to help around the farm - milking the cows, making repairs, and helping out with the crops. Can the kinder freer attitude of the Zook's community offer something that will appeal to Arlan and Magda?

 Christmas is a time for miracles and grace and A Christmas Haven has both as Ivy, Holly, Arlan, and Magda all find something worth having. At approximately 200 pages this book is a surprisingly quick read. The story is well-paced and enjoyable. One can relate to the characters as they navigate life and try to find where they fit in it. I really like Ivy and like how her character just comes alive and she makes the scenes something more with her very presence.

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



About the Book:

In a desire to grow her budding party-planning business,

Ivy plans to leave behind her Old Order Amish community

and enter the modern world as an Englischer.

Old Order Amish Ivy Zook is wrestling with her need to shed her community's ways so she can grow the business of her dreams: planning parties. As long as she's stuck living without modernization, she can barely get her business on its feet. But if she leaves too soon, she'd cause trouble for her sister, Holly, who is planning her wedding to Joshua Smucker. All of their plans become twice as complicated when an old car crashes into the storefront of Greene's Pharmacy, carrying a Swartzentruber (ultra-conservative sect) Amish man, Arlan, and his very ill sister.

The Zooks take in Arlan and Madga, tending to the woman's illness and Arlan begins helping around the family farm. Ivy and Arlan are on different tracks, one wanting to leave her community and the other to return to his. But both young people are trying to discover what God has in store for their futures and what miracles might lie around the corner this Christmas season.

The Tinderbox ~ Review

The Tinderbox
By Beverly Lewis

Sylvia Miller has always been fascinated by her father's tinderbox. A box that has always been locked and put up out of her reach. But when she discovers it unlocked her curiosity gets the better of her and she looks inside to see what treasures from the past Dat has hidden away. But when she sees everything that there is to see she instantly regrets it especially when she fears that her father is hiding a secret that he shouldn't.

Ernest Miller came to Hickory Hollow as a young man and with a broken heart was more than willing to embrace the life that the Old Order Amish community offered. He thought he could leave the past behind him but recently his past decisions and mistakes have begun to weigh on him.

Meanwhile, Sylvia and her boyfriend Titus are soon to make a commitment to the church and possibly a future with one another. But when the truth about her father's past comes to light even her plans for the future begin to weigh on her. But with helpful advice from Ella Mae, aka the Wise Woman, Sylvia is given much to think about at the key period of her life - a time for decisions that will affect her future.

The Tinderbox is not a book complete in itself so be on the lookout this fall for the continuation with The Timepiece. That is no way means you can't enjoy this latest Beverly Lewis offering which does conclude the main focus of the book the tinderbox and the secrets it has held for more than 20 years. Those who are familiar with Hickory Hollow will enjoy visiting with the Miller family and getting glimpses of those who they are familiar with. This is a story of family and forgiveness.

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


About the Book:

I've marveled at Dat's ability to accept the Old Ways

so readily, considering his modern upbringing. 

Mamma says it's like he was born to be Amish. 

Maybe so, but all the same, I wished I knew 

something more about his past.

With her parents' twentieth anniversary approaching, eighteen-year-old Sylvia Miller finds her father's cherished brass tinderbox left unlocked. Against her better judgment, Sylvia opens the heirloom, not realizing that what she is about to discover will splinter apart her happy life and alter everything for her close-knit Old Order Amish family. As the long-kept secret emerges into the light of day, can the Millers find a way forward through the turmoil to a place of forgiveness?

Mending Fences ~ Review

Mending Fences
The Deacon's Family #1
By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Luke Schrock is back home in Stoney Ridge and life there has gone on while he was in rehab. His past has made a definite impact on those who had to live through his pranks and jokes. And as part of his continued healing, he has been encouraged to mend fences with those he hurt over the years.

But mending these fences is more than offering an apology and receiving the expected forgiveness the Amish are known for. No, Luke is supposed to ask just how his careless and cruel antics have impacted each person's life. And with Luke's history, it is a long list to work through.

With trust at an all-time low, Luke has been offered a bed at Windmill Farm in exchange for helping Amos Lapp with a variety of chores. Another young person in need has been taken in by Fern and Amos and to Luke's surprise, Izzy Miller is immune to his charms. Worse Izzy seems to despise him and his ways. Izzy is making a new life for herself and she's known enough guys like Luke to not get caught in his trap of charm.

Mending Fences is the first book in The Deacon's Family series and it promises to be the first offering in some potentially momentous changes in Stoney Ridge. There is an unexpected link to the past which is tied to painful events is several character's lives. And most importantly we are shown the potential of what Luke's life might become. Those who have visited Stoney Ridge in the past will enjoy another visit with some old friends.

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


About the Book:

Every saint has a past. 

Every sinner has a future.

Luke Schrock is a new and improved man after a stint in rehab, though everyone in Stoney Ridge only remembers the old Luke. They might have forgiven him, but nobody trusts him. He has been allowed to live at Windmill Farm under two conditions. First, he must make a sincere apology to each person he's hurt. Second, he must ask each victim of mischief to describe the damage he caused. 

Simple, Luke thinks. Offering apologies is easy. But discovering the lasting effects his careless actions have caused isn't so simple. It's gut-wrenching. 

And his list keeps growing. Izzy Miller, beautiful and frustratingly aloof, also boards at Windmill Farm, and Luke's clumsy efforts to befriend her only insult and annoy her. Eager to impress, Luke sets out to prove himself to her by locating her mother. When he does, her identity sends shock waves through Stoney Ridge. 

The Christmas Remedy ~ Review

The Christmas Remedy
By Cindy Woodsmall
     and Erin Woodsmall

Holly Noelle Zook is determined to prevent any needless Amish deaths, not when they could be prevented with basic medical care and knowledge. The loss of her father has driven her to help out in the nearby English pharmacy for years. And she hopes to further her own education so she can help her friends and neighbors even more.

When an emergency threatens everything she's ever worked and Greene's Pharmacy could be shuttered Holly Noelle has to accept help from Joshua Smucker. Josh is everything an Amish girl could want unless she's Holly Noelle. Working outside the home is not an option for an Amish woman should she marry and Holly is determined not to marry. EVER! So dating is out of the question - though if she and Josh could just be friends...

Brandon Greene is just this close to having his pharmacy license when his dad needs him. Not that his dad would ask but Holly Noelle let him know. And once again his life is on hold thanks to the unexpected. He had been happy to leave Raysburg behind but now it looked as if he was back at least for a short stint.

With time counting down Holly, Josh and Brandon have their work cut out for them if they are going to get to the truth of what happened before everything went wrong. Where was the paperwork they so desperately needed or had Doc Greene done something wrong?

This is a nice Christmas read, one that has the Amish and English life woven together in a mutually caring community that is just starting to break down the barriers and mistrust that have divided them. There are characters that one can connect with almost instantly and see the varying viewpoints from each one's perspective and sympathize accordingly. Maybe everything doesn't work out just how everyone would have hoped but that could be a good thing in the end. If you want a feel-good read, pick this one up, curl up in your favorite corner and while away a few contented hours.

I received this book from the publisher through their book launch program. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
When an Old Order Amish woman takes a job at a small-town pharmacy struggling to survive in a world of "big box" stores, her motive is to help her Plain community. But the advent of the holiday season brings an unusual mystery to the surface--and possibly love.

Twenty-four-year-old Holly Zook lives a unique life for a young Amish woman. Years ago, her bishop allowed her to continue her education and become the lead technician for Greene's Pharmacy, an old-timey drugstore that looks out for the Amish community--a group largely without secure healthcare plans. She knows she can't marry and hold onto her professional job. She's Amish, and she can only have one or the other, so she spurns love and works toward addressing treatable diseases--like the one that claimed her father's life.

As long as Holly continues to avoid Joshua Smucker, the one man who draws her like a warm hearth in winter, she should be fine. When something unexpected threatens Greene's Pharmacy, Holly and Joshua must work together to unravel what's happened and find the "missing" patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. As the snows of December arrive, with Christmas in the air, will Holly succumb to the generous spirit of the season?

When an Old Order Amish woman takes a job at a small-town pharmacy struggling to survive in a world of “big box” stores, her motive is to help her Plain community. But the advent of the holiday season brings an unusual mystery to the surface–and possibly love.

Twenty-four-year-old Holly Zook lives a unique life for a young Amish woman. Years ago, her bishop allowed her to continue her education and become the lead technician for Greene’s Pharmacy, an old-timey drugstore that looks out for the Amish community–a group largely without secure healthcare plans. She knows she can’t marry and hold onto her professional job. She’s Amish, and she can only have one or the other, so she spurns love and works toward addressing treatable diseases–like the one that claimed her father’s life.

As long as Holly continues to avoid Joshua Smucker, the one man who draws her like a warm hearth in winter, she should be fine. When something unexpected threatens Greene’s Pharmacy, Holly and Joshua must work together to unravel what’s happened and find the “missing” patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. As the snows of December arrive, with Christmas in the air, will Holly succumb to the generous spirit of the season?

When an Old Order Amish woman takes a job at a small-town pharmacy struggling to survive in a world of “big box” stores, her motive is to help her Plain community. But the advent of the holiday season brings an unusual mystery to the surface–and possibly love.

Twenty-four-year-old Holly Zook lives a unique life for a young Amish woman. Years ago, her bishop allowed her to continue her education and become the lead technician for Greene’s Pharmacy, an old-timey drugstore that looks out for the Amish community–a group largely without secure healthcare plans. She knows she can’t marry and hold onto her professional job. She’s Amish, and she can only have one or the other, so she spurns love and works toward addressing treatable diseases–like the one that claimed her father’s life.

As long as Holly continues to avoid Joshua Smucker, the one man who draws her like a warm hearth in winter, she should be fine. When something unexpected threatens Greene’s Pharmacy, Holly and Joshua must work together to unravel what’s happened and find the “missing” patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. As the snows of December arrive, with Christmas in the air, will Holly succumb to the generous spirit of the season?

The Sound of Distant Thunder ~ Review

The Sound of Distant Thunder
The Amish of Weaver's Creek #1
By Jan Drexler

Katie Stuckey and Jonas Weaver know that they are meant to marry and they want to do it as soon as possible. But Katie's father thinks she is too young at 17 years. And Jonas he feels is just not responsible enough to marry his youngest daughter. Gustav is relieved when Jonas agrees to wait.

With the country caught up in a war about slavery and state rights, the Amish of Weaver's Creek are caught in their problem those who want to embrace the change of the world and those who want to hold tight to their traditions. War is the furthest thing on their minds as they refuse to participate in violence. But when Ohio implements a draft the Amish community is faced with a dilemma - take up arms (against the church), pay a fee to avoid serving, or pay a substitute to fight for them.

When Samuel, Jonas's older married brother's name is drawn he is faced with a dilemma. Samuel vowed to never pay a fee nor pay a substitute to take his place. As one who had joined the church serving in the war could cost him dearly - shunning.  Jonas feels drawn to the war not that he wants to fight but he feels that God has something for him to do. Taking his brother's place means that Jonas will have to put his plans on hold and he will be separated from Katie. 

With Jonas gone Katie faces challenges that will test her. Can she hold onto the promise that Jonas will return to her? Can Jonas stay true to his beliefs or will war change him forever?

The Sound of Distant Thunder is an apt title for this book as thunder is a reoccurring theme throughout - thunder that is accompanied by a storm and that that is the distant call of battle coming. I have not read Jan Drexler's work before so came to this book with no expectations. I found the first few chapters to be a little slow but once the book got into it with the characters established the pacing and story seemed to move along quicker.

Those who like historical American fiction will enjoy this one as it is set in the early 1860s and if you have a fondness for Amish fiction consider this a bonus read as it offers both. This book focuses on family and the idea of hold firm to your principles.  Overall I would recommend this book which is the first in a new series The Amish of Weaver's Creek.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Revell with no expectations but that I give my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

For two hopeless romantics, 

the Civil War will be the ultimate test . . .

Seventeen-year-old Katie Stuckey is starry-eyed, in love with the idea of being in love, and does not want to wait until she is eighteen to marry Jonas Weaver as her parents insist. Twenty-year-old Jonas knows war is at odds with the teachings of the church, yet he can't help being taken in by the romance of the soldiering life, especially for the abolitionist cause.

When his married brother's name comes up in the draft list, Jonas volunteers to take his brother's place. But can the commitment Katie and Jonas have made to each other survive the separation?

Shattered Silence ~ Review with Giveaway

Shattered Silence
Echo Falls #3
By Marta Perry

Rachel Hartline's marriage has ended and as soon as she gets her husband's signature she can sell their home - the home she can't afford on her teacher's salary - the home she put so many hours into. But getting Paul's signature is no easy task and this attempt to get it is about to put her smack dab into the latest of Paul's schemes - one that could very well implicate her in a crime and places her in danger.

Clint Mordan is determined to get to the truth of what Rachel knows and just how deeply she and her "ex" are involved in this theft from his company. No matter how Rachel tries to avoid him and his questions he won't be put off.

When the situation takes a dangerous turn Rachel returns to the only place she ever called home. But will the danger that drove her from her home find her in the Amish community she used to love? And will those she loves be in danger now as well?

Shattered Silence is a romantic suspense that has an Amish element to it, but it isn't an Amish fiction per say.  The suspense is a constant almost throughout the whole story with the romance just a tad behind. The whole corporate espionage element was an intriguing twist - was he or wasn't he guilty? And as to the guilty party or parties, I have to say truly evil and uncaring - not anyone I'd care to associate with.

This is the third book of the Echo Falls series which I did not know before reading this book. I no way did I feel lost as if I had missed out on something, perhaps as this book deals mainly with Rachel whose life was outside of Echo Falls has a bearing on this. But be assured that this book can stand-alone. This book is an easy read and the suspense won't keep you awake into the wee hours of the morning unless you just decide to keep reading the night away. Fans of Love Inspired Suspense will want to pick up this one.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through TLC Book Tours with no expectations of a positive review - all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A woman on the run seeks sanctuary 

in a peaceful Pennsylvania Dutch 

community—and finds a protector 

in the most unlikely of men…

One moment Rachel Hartline is secure in her career and community. The next, she’s in the wrong place at the wrong time—watching her ex-husband commit a crime that puts her in unfathomable danger. Fear and hurt send her home to an Amish farm and the family she’s always trusted. But a private investigator is close behind—and he may be a threat to her in more ways than one…

Cold, calculating Clint Mordan isn’t convinced Rachel is as innocent in her ex-husband’s schemes as she claims, but when her ex’s enemies target Rachel, Clint is driven to keep her safe. Maybe the terror in her beautiful eyes and the target on her back aren’t an act. But as his feelings toward her deepen, Clint realizes he’s the only one who can keep Rachel alive in a game where only the killer knows the stakes.

Purchase Links

Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes and Noble

About Marta Perry:

Marta Perry realized she wanted to be a writer at age eight, when she read her first Nancy Drew novel. A lifetime spent in rural Pennsylvania and her own Pennsylvania Dutch roots led Marta to the books she writes now about the Amish. When she’s not writing, Marta is active in the life of her church and enjoys traveling and spending time with her three children and six beautiful grandchildren.

Connect with Marta 

Website | Facebook

GIVEAWAY:

Enter for a chance to win 1 (one) copy of 

Marta Perry's Shattered Silence.

Open to readers with a US postal address.

Runs from August 7 - August 12, 2018.

One random entry will be chosen

via the Rafflecopter website and
have 48 hours to reply with
their US Mailing Address
which will be shared with
the publisher.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to visit the other Marta Perry’s TLC Book Tours Stops:

Tuesday, July 24th: Reading Reality

Wednesday, July 25th: Books a la Mode 

Wednesday, July 25th: @girlandherbooks

Friday, July 27th: Moonlight Rendezvous

Monday, July 30th: A Holland Reads 

Tuesday, July 31st: Books & Spoons

Thursday, August 2nd: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom

Thursday, August 2nd: Stuck in Books 

Monday, August 6th: Cheryl’s Book Nook

Tuesday, August 7th: Blooming with Books 

Tuesday, August 7th: What is That Book About 

Wednesday, August 8th: Mystery Suspense Reviews

Thursday, August 9th: Mel’s Shelves

Friday, August 10th: Jathan & Heather

Monday, August 13th: From the TBR Pile

Tuesday, August 14th: Book Reviews and More by Kathy 

Words From the Heart ~ Review

Words From the Heart
An Amish Letters Novel #3
By Kathleen Fuller

Ivy Yoder's life has changed much recently and it is about to once again as her job at Miller's Bookbinding is coming to an end. With her closest friends and sister married and no prospects of marriage in her future Ivy feels a bit adrift.

When an older woman within the community asks for Ivy's help she agrees - after all she has the time. But cleaning up Cevilla Schlabach's attic has a few stipulations attached to it - she has to do it with Cevilla's great-nephew Noah. And even more perplexing is Cevilla's insisting that Ivy and Noah have to be in the attic together working together no solo work, but at her age Cevilla is allowed a few peculiarities.

Noah is hoping to make so finds of importance - he is after all an auctioneer and articles of value intrigue him. Ivy is curious as well but most of the boxes hold little of monetary value though there are a few treasures that with a little TLC might be of note. But when they come to a box of old letters they discover the true treasure that the attic is hiding - but these letters hide a secret one that affect them both.

Those around them are convinced that Ivy and Noah are perfect for one another - but Ivy and Noah aren't convinced. Ivy like her life and the closeness she shares with her family in Birch Creek while Noah like traveling around as an auctioneer and he doesn't even call the state of Ohio home. And Noah has a secret of his own one that could have a last effect on what his future holds.

This is the third book in the Amish Letters series and continues the story of those who call Birch Creek, Ohio, home. If you have not read the two previous books you can still easily follow this story you just won't have the back story of the secondary characters. This is a lovely story about family, friendship and a second chance at love. And fans of Amish fiction will enjoy yet another book from Kathleen Fuller.

I was provided a review copy by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program with no expectations of a positive review ~ all opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

Her fingertips brushed against 

something else in the box of doilies. She lifted a bundle 

of letters, neatly tied with a thin red ribbon . . .

Ivy Yoder hasn’t heard from John King in over a year. She knows it’s time to let go of the idea that they will one day marry, but she’s humiliated to be one of the oldest single women in her Amish community of Birch Creek. When quirky Cevilla Schlabach asks her to help clean out an attic, Ivy is grateful for the distraction.

Noah Schlabach isn’t from Birch Creek, or even Ohio. His job as an auctioneer takes him around the country and away from a typical Amish life, but he still remains devoted to his family. So when his aging aunt asks him to help clean out her attic, he agrees. Plus, who knows what curious items he might find up there?

As Noah and Ivy work side by side, they come across a different kind of treasure: a packet of letters written during the Korean War. Soon they are swept up in the story of two young people falling in love—even as they remain determined not to fall in love themselves.

Words from the Heart is a moving story of lost love letters, fragile fears, and the beauty of taking another step forward.

The Celebration ~ Review

The Celebration
Amish Cooking Class #3
By Wanda E. Brunstetter

Heidi and Lyle Troyer are adjusting to their new role of foster parents to Randy and Marsha. Hoping to help her young charges to adjust Heidi with Lyle's encouragement embarks on a new cooking class. But this time the class is for children instead of adults.

But from the opening moment of the first class tensions are high. Heidi's nervous about how this new twist will play out especially with Randy and Marsha now involved.  And then some of the children who are signed up are less than thrilled about the idea of cooking classes. Can everything work together or will this be the final class Heidi ever offers?

Children in her home has been Heidi's dream but children of their own wasn't meant be. And being foster parents to two young children who have tragically lost their parent wasn't something they had ever expected. But Lyle and Heidi are determined to help these two hurting children and offer  them all the love and caring that they would have offered their own had they been so blessed. Can Heidi's kitchen provide the bonding that will heal hurting hearts of not only her home but her students?

Life isn't perfect and each of Heidi's new students and their respective family is experiencing their own trials. But as in the past Heidi's lessons and caring spirit make a difference in the lives of all involved. There is romance, broken families, cute pets and good cooking - what more could one want in a sweet book that will divert the reader from the everyday for a few hours of comfort reading.

Fans of Wanda Brunstetter's Amish Cooking Class series will enjoy this book and don't skip ahead but the final pages will leave you with a happy feeling perfect for what could be the ending of this series. And don't forget to enjoy the recipes that Heidi shared! You may discover a new favorite, I'm looking forward to trying the Surprise Muffins and the Strawberry Shortcake.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

Return to Holmes County, Ohio, for Amish style cooking class.

Lyle and Heidi Troyer have taken in a brother and sister, who were orphaned when their parents were killed in a car accident. Hoping to help the children adapt and make friends, Heidi decides to hold a series of cooking classes for kids. But kids are always accompanied by an adult—and that is where the trouble arises.
 Will hearts be healed over plates of Amish food? 

The Promise of a Letter ~ Review

The Promise of  Letter
An Amish Letters Novel #2
By Kathleen Fuller

Leanna Chupp has no ideas of ever getting married - after all who would want to court a young woman who can't cook and would rather spend her time repairing equipment. Though she doesn't fit the conventional mold of an unmarried Amish woman Leanna is content with her life.

When Leanna finds the life she has made for herself in jeopardy she is unsure how to fix what has gone wrong especially when her job with Daniel Raber may go to his irresponsible younger brother Roman. But surprisingly Roman doesn't seem to be the same person he was before. But can he be trusted or will he again let everyone down when they most need him?

When a crisis occurs and Leanna and Roman must work together they just may discover what has been missing in their lives.

This is the second book in the Amish Letters series and it is again set in Birch Creek and the same characters who were in the first book Written in Love are again in this book. If you are wondering how this book fits in with a series that is about letters it is because both Roman and Daniel have received letters from their grandmother following her death. Letters that ask for one last promise - an attempt to reconcile and bridge the divide of hurt that has divided these two brothers.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the Fiction Guild with no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A letter brings him back to his Amish family. 

It will take someone truly 

extraordinary to make him stay...

Roman is on the verge of leaving the Amish ways. Feeling confined by the strict rules, he longs to do something more with his life. But when things don’t go as planned, Roman’s prospects outside of the community dwindle. Upon learning that his beloved grandmother has died and left a letter urging him to reconcile with his brother in Birch Creek, Roman decides to return home. But he doesn’t plan to stay for long.

Leanna Chupp has always made her own way in her small community of Birch Creek. Though some may call her unconventional—strange, even—Leanna is happy. Her unique outlook on life has meant she’s never had many suitors pursuing courtship, which Leanna doesn’t mind. She is content being single.

But when Roman and Leanna find themselves working together again, everything changes. Though neither fit squarely within the strictures of the Amish faith, their differences could be the very thing to help them form a deeper connection to their community and to each other. The question remains: will this strengthening bond be enough to make Roman stay for good?

Written in Love ~ Review

Written in Love
An Amish Letters novel #1
By Kathleen Fuller

A misdirected letter finds Phoebe Bontrager starting an unexpected correspondence with Jalon Chupp. For both this correspondence is one that touches both their hearts. But letters give an anonymity that allows them to keep the secrets of their past.

For Phoebe, Jalon's letters are the highlight of her life. Living with her aunt is a burden that she has to live with. It is the price she must pay for the choices she made. And revealing the truth is something she doesn't want to do as her friendship with Jalon isn't something she is willing to risk. But Jalon wants to meet Phoebe and to share his own past with her and his hopes for the future.

When the truth comes out Phoebe and Jalon must decide how next to proceed especially when Phoebe's aunt discovers this friendship and Phoebe's future is in doubt.

Those who enjoy Amish fiction will enjoy this offering from Kathleen Fuller as she starts a new series with this book. And who doesn't enjoy getting a letter in the mail? I know I've always enjoyed getting news from a friend, the surprise of a letter in the mailbox and the anticipation of revealing what news will be revealed.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the Fiction Guild with no obligation to post a review positive or otherwise. All opinions expressed are my own. 


About the Book:

"Dear Mr. Chupp"–with those three words, 

a pen-pal relationship is ignited and two 

lives are changed forever.

Jalon Chupp has a past he isn’t proud to claim. He’s worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his Amish faith. When he receives a sweet note included in a piece of misdirected mail, he can’t help but write back. Soon, the letters he receives from Phoebe are the highlights of his days, and with a hopeful heart, he suggests they meet in person.

Phoebe, too, looks forward to every single one of Jalon’s letters. Living with her overbearing aunt, Phoebe doesn’t have too much to look forward to. Then Jalon suggests they meet, and she panics—although she has shared some of the deepest longings of her heart with him, she hasn’t been entirely truthful about her past. But when Jalon shows up at her aunt’s doorstep, everything is revealed. And she can only pray he’ll forgive her for holding back the truth.

In order to reach beyond the errors of their pasts, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something—or Someone—bigger than either of them could pen.

The Return ~ Review

The Return
An Amish Beginnings Novel #3
By Suzanne Fisher Woods

The Return continues the story of the early days of Stoney Ridge and this chapter is set, for the majority of the story, in 1763. For those who enjoyed the story of Anna Konig and Bairn Bauer and the journey that brought them together aboard the Charming Nancy and to the New World, this is the third book in their story. Time has passed and not only have they married, they have a daughter Tessa, who is on the threshold of womanhood and all the anguish that that entails. Tessa Bauer has a decided personality that once set on a particular path is hard to detour to a better one. Fortunately or not she speaks her mind and often to the dismay of her mother and those around her

Tessa Bauer has long sought the attentions of Hams Johann Bauer to no avail. Hans' heart has been captured by Betsy Zook, a new arrival to the New World and Pennsylvania. Tessa has an admirer whom as a child offended her and unfortunately for him, Tessa's good opinion (much like Mr. Darcy's) once lost is likely to be forever lost. But Martin Gingerich is not easily dissuaded to Tessa's annoyance.

But when an Indian raid occurs, many who lived outside of the Stoney Ridge settlement are slaughtered or captured. And Betsy Zook is among those who are taken. Those of Stoney Ridge are shocked and saddened by the news and to Hans disgust are unwilling to take action against those who perpetrated this savage attack.

The Return is a story told from two vastly different viewpoint - that of those in Stoney Ridge (particularly Tessa) and that of Betsy as she lives among a people who are much more than savages. But hatred is a two edged sword that thrusts both ways with tragic consequences often for those who are innocent. This was a world in turmoil as the old and new tried to establish a balance and protect what they believed was theirs.

I really believe that this series Amish Beginnings is one that anyone who has a love of historical fiction would enjoy (even someone who is not into Amish fiction). There is a depth to this story that will make one stop and think. Hate and the thirst for vengeance is examined along with its tragic and costly ending - a timely book no matter what year it is.

Of note - if you have not read the previous books in the series that is not a problem as one can quite easily read this book on its own without the backstory. Either way, this is an excellent book that should not be missed.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Revell with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

In a wild country, the true 

cost of love may be 

more than they can bear

Beautiful and winsome, Betsy Zook never questioned her family's rigid expectations, nor those of devoted Hans--but then she never had to. Not until the night she's taken captive in a surprise Indian raid. Facing brutality and hardship, Betsy finds herself torn between her pious upbringing and the feelings she's developing for a native man who encourages her to see God in all circumstances. 

Greatly anguished by Betsy's captivity, Hans turns to Tessa Bauer for comfort. She responds eagerly, overlooking troubling signs of Hans's hunger for revenge. But if Betsy is ever restored to the Amish, will things between Hans and Tessa have gone too far? 

Inspired by true events, this deeply layered novel gives a glimpse into the tumultuous days of pre-revolutionary Pennsylvania through the eyes of two young, determined, and faith-filled women.

The Blessing ~ Review

The Blessing
Amish Cooking Class #2
By Wanda E. Brunstetter

The Blessing is the second book in the Amish Cooking Class series and Heidi Troyer is trying to decide if she wants to offer a second six lesson cooking class. She and her husband Lyle are anticipating the arrival of their soon-to-be adopted baby and Heidi wants to be sure to have plenty of time for their long desired baby. But Heidi decides to offer a second class (if she didn't the series would need a different name) for reasons not to be revealed in this review. And various characters from the first book make an appearance in this book (in case you are wondering).

With six new students, Heidi has a new round of people to whom she can minister. And believe me, they all can use a little help with the various situations they find themselves in at present. But these students are a tad more difficult than Heidi's first group and there seem to be tensions between her students that hint at their need for her special brand of care.

Overall this is a fine story, though the reader could potentially get lost in the various character viewpoints that the book jumps between. But those familiar with Wanda's writing should be fine in story navigation department. For those new to Wanda Brunstetter's world if you haven't read her previous book in this series don't worry as you'll easily get brought up to speed as the backstory is referenced throughout. I personally enjoyed the first book over this book but I still found this one to be an enjoyable read while waiting in the car. (Yes, I'm one of those people who always has a book or two with me at all times.)

Of note, if you are so included to sample some Amish recipes for yourself the recipes that Heidi teaches in her class are included in the back of the book along with some discussion questions.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Gathering the Threads ~ Review

Gathering the Threads
The Amish of Summer Grove #3
By Cindy Woodsmall

Ariana dreamed and longed to return home to the life and family she had always known. A life that was taken away from her by the parents she didn't know. But her time away has changed her - opening her eyes see her once beloved life differently. And even more unsettling Skylar the young woman with whom she was mixed-up is still living with the Brenneman family.

Skylar isn't ready to leave the Brennemans and return to her old life. She hasn't embraced the Amish lifestyle yet some aspects have helped her as she fought her addictions. But Ariana's return threatens the peace that Skylar is discovering.

As Ariana struggles to once again find her place she has to deal with the suspicions of others within her community. Her ties with her Englisch family are cause for concern as is her re-established friendship with Quill Schlabach. Can Ariana be true to who she really is and the truths that she discovered about God? Or will she allow the pressures of her old life to suppress and constrict her new thoughts?

Gathering the Threads is the concluding book in the Amish of Summer Grove trilogy. This book continues the look at family and what is more important in making a family - blood or love. It is also a study in how belief determines how we react to others and their beliefs. I find it interesting how Ariana's siblings treat her upon her return as compared to her parents, especially her Daed. 

I think one could most definitely describe this as an emotional book - not that it causes the reader to go through a range of emotions or even to get emotional. Rather this book expresses a range of emotions as the various characters work through their hopes and their fears. 

If you haven't read the first two books in the series you can get a quick synopsis at the beginning of the book and enjoy the story that is found within these covers. However, if you read the first two books you'll more fully appreciate what Skylar and Ariana are confronting when there are each presented with their new biological identities. I mean, who wouldn't have an issue or two to learn that you aren't quite whom you always thought yourself as being. 

The book and series conclude in a satisfying manner though I wouldn't have minded another book in the series (or another 100 pages or so in this book). If you're looking for a vacation read give this one a try. This book (and series) would be an excellent choice for a book club selection. 

I was provided a review ARC (advanced reviewer copy) of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:

Finally back in the Old Order Amish world she loves,

Will Ariana’s new perspectives draw her family closer together—

or completely rip them apart?

After months away in the Englisch world, Ariana Brenneman is overjoyed to be in the Old Order Amish home where she was raised. Yet her excitement is mixed with an unexpected apprehension as she reconciles all she’s learned from her biological parents with the uncompromising teachings of her Plain community. Although her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, hopes to help her navigate her new role amongst her people, Ariana’s Daed doesn’t understand why his sweet daughter is suddenly questioning his authority. What will happen if she sows seeds of unrest and rebellion in the entire family?  
 
Meanwhile, Skylar Nash has finally found her place among the large Brenneman family, but Ariana’s arrival threatens to unravel Skylar’s new identity—and her sobriety. Both Ariana and Skylar must discover the true cords that bind a family and community together and grasp tight the One who holds their authentic identities close to His heart. 
 
Gathering the Threads is the third and final novel in The Amish of Summer Grove series.

Fraying at the Edge ~ Review

Fraying at the Edge
Amish of Summer Grove #2
By Cindy Woodsmall

For twenty years Ariana knew she was a Brenneman. And she was as Amish as she could be with her certainty that whatever those in authority said was the truth. But in an unexpected twist, she discovered that what she knew to be true was not as black and white as she had always believed. Her parents weren't her birth parents and she had no siblings. And the beliefs she had always held in highest regard were being attacked to her face and she wasn't allowed to be who she had always been. And worse, another young woman, a Skylar Nash was supposed to be living the life she had had. But Ariana was willing to be separated from the people she knew and loved to protect them from the man she had discovered was her biological father.

Meanwhile, Skylar is having issues of her own - no technology of any kind, banishment to the 18th century, sharing a bedroom, and no access to pills (to help her cope). And to top it all off the Brenneman's aren't that happy to see her thanks to her not being their precious Ariana. And they expect her to work like the rest of the family. But the Brenneman's is better than her other option rehab. But Skylar's biggest issue is that her not parent parents were more than eager to throw her over for a chance at a better daughter.

For both Ariana and Skylar life has just become so confusing as they struggle to make sense of who they are with their switched at birth identities revealed. And Ariana's siblings are having to find their new place without Ariana around to carry the load and make things better. The one hardest hit with the change is Abram - Ariana/Skylar's twin. And then there is Ariana's just purchased cafe that the Brenneman's are left with operating after two weeks of Ariana's guidance. Can we just say potential disaster in the making?

As Ariana and Skylar both confront the changes that life has just thrown at them they both have choices to make. And these choices could either make or break them. And for Ariana, her only hope of holding onto what makes her who she is is if she can withstand the pressures that Nicholas is placing on her. And to do that she will need to reach out to the one person who knows what she is going through - Quill Schlabach. But can Ariana trust someone who left the faith and broke her heart five years ago? And can she hold firm to who she is while being made to take part in a world she never wanted to know? And can Skylar use this separation from the world to get her life straightened out and get clean?

This the second book in the Amish of Summer Grove series continues the theme of family and familial ties. But this time it focuses more on what makes an individual a part of a family is it blood ties, the ties of rearing, or is it a decision made of the heart? And the back and forth between Ariana and Nicholas on matters of faith and belief makes for some interesting exchanges and Quill's insights offer even greater insights.

This book is both intriguing and thoughtful. But if you haven't read book 1 Ties that Bind you have to read it first! Much of this book would lose something without the backstory provided in book 1, though there is a The story so far... synopsis to refresh the reader's memory if needed. This is an excellent book that examines life and how circumstances play a part in our lives but the biggest influence on anyone is the choices they make. I highly recommend this book and anticipate the concluding book in this series Gathering the Threads which is releasing on August 15, 2017.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:

Family, community, faith, and love.

These “quilt blocks” sewn together made Ariana’s beautiful life.

When they are pulled to pieces,

will anything familiar remain?

The Old Order Amish life Ariana Brenneman loved vanished virtually overnight with the discovery that she was switched at birth twenty years ago. Now she’s immersed in the Englischer world, getting to know her mother and under the authority of her biological father, an atheist intellectual with resolute plans to expand Ariana’s worldview. Only Quill Schlabach, a childhood friend living Englisch, can steady the tilting ground between Ariana’s two worlds, but can she trust him after so many betrayals?

At the same time, Skylar Nash is forced to choose rehab or spend several months with her true relatives, the large Brenneman family and their seemingly backward life—no electricity, no technology, no fun. What the young woman can’t leave behind is her addiction to illegal prescription drugs and a deep emptiness from the belief that she doesn’t belong in either family.

New ties are binding Ariana and Skylar to the lives they were meant to have. Can they find the wisdom and strength they’ll need to follow God’s threads into unexpected futures?

Fraying at the Edge is the second novel in The Amish of Summer Grove series.

An Amish Summer ~ Review

An Amish Summer
Four Novellas
By Shelley Sheppard Gray,
      Amy Clipston,
        Kathleen Fuller, and
           Kelly Irvin

If you love reading collections of stories all wrapped up together in one book and you love Amish fiction you are in for a treat. Get ready to enjoy summer in four different Amish communities as the path to love is strewn with different obstacles.

A Reunion in Pinecraft is a fun bit of mistaken identity that could lead Graham Holland into big trouble. For six months Graham has been remembering the wrong sister to whom he has been corresponding. Can he remedy the situation before he loses his chance at happiness and marriage? And adding to the confusion is the reactions of the Kramer sisters to Graham's behavior and attention to them. This reunion may be the best or worst thing that ever happened to any of them!

Summer Storms finds Ariana Smucker and Jesse Nook in a quandary after a day of fun with their youth group. After an accident brings Ariana's father wrath down on both Jesse and Ariana's brother Tobias - their engagement is off. And nothing Jesse or Arianna say will change her father's mind. But with a little encouragement from his brother and the memory of Tobias's words Jesse is determined to prove that he is worthy of Ariana and that she is worth the effort to win. Can love overcome a loss of trust?

Lakeside Love finds Esther Coblentz in the shadow of her younger sister's head-turning beauty, especially where Judah King is concerned. Esther is only of interest to Judah when he needs her to give Sarah a message. But when Esther resigns herself to Judah's indifference and shares a summer friendship with an Englischer who is boarding with her family, she starts to attract some attention of her own. But can she trust what she is seeing? Or will she lose out to Sarah in the end?

One Sweet Kiss finds Martha Byler beside herself with her boyfriend Jacob King. Jacob is anything but manly in his behavior as far as Martha is concerned. And his friends are even worse. The last thing Martha needs in her life is a boyfriend who is less grown-up than her younger siblings. But not everything is as it seems and Jacob just needs to prove to Martha that he is the man she wishes he was but an encounter with an alligator may be just what they need to smooth everything out.

This was a fun collection of stories that because they were 4-in-1 made it easy to put it down when the end of one story was reached, or it should have been if I wasn't such a bookworm and have trouble putting books down all the time. But seriously if you have time constraints this is the perfect format to feel a sense of accomplishment while not finishing the book in one sitting (for various reasons including needing to get to work on time). This is also a fun way to discover unfamiliar authors as each story is by a different writer. And if you are familiar with these authors think of this as a tide over till their next full-length book comes out.

I was provided a free copy of this book and no expectations of a positive review were required. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A new novella collection of sweet, summer romances from 

some of our favorite Amish authors!

A Reunion in Pinecraft by Shelley Shepard Gray

When sisters Sharon and Sherilyn Kramer attend a wedding in Shipshewana, one of them returns with a new penpal while the other returns to her job at the bakery. After sending weekly letters back and forth, Sherry and Graham Holland arrange a reunion in Pinecraft. Upon Graham’s arrival, however, he realizes he’s been writing to the wrong sister. He decides to use the reunion as a way to get to know both sisters, but can he sort through the confusion in time to turn the worst vacation ever into something truly wonderful?

Summer Storms by Amy Clipston

Ariana is counting down the days until her wedding to Jesse. They have been friends longer than Arianna can remember, and that friendship turned into love over the past couple of years. But when Arianna’s brother Tobias, who happens to be Jesse’s best friend, gets them both into trouble, Arianna’s father puts an end to her engagement to Jesse. Some summer storms pass quickly, but Arianna is afraid the damage from this one may be too much to repair.

Lakeside Love by Kathleen Fuller

Esther has always lived in the shadow of her beautiful younger sister Sarah. Even the boy she has known—and loved—her entire life, Judah, only has eyes for Sarah. But when a handsome young Englischer comes to live with the family for a summer, everything begins to change.

One Sweet Kiss by Kelly Irvin

Everybody in little Bee County, Texas, can see the obvious: Jacob King and Martha Byler are meant to be together. Everyone, that is, but Martha. Ever since her mother died when Martha was a young girl, she has taken over the role of caregiver to her large family. And reckless Jacob, who has had a little too much fun on his rumspringa, only seems to add to the list of people to manage. But one summer changes everything, and these two may just find a way to meet in the middle and share one sweet kiss.