Loving Jenna (A Wells Landing Romance Book 9) by Amy Lillard

Book Description:

In this new novel set in the beloved Oklahoma Amish community of Wells Landing, three generations of women challenge themselves and each other to make a fresh start in faith, family—and love. 

 Jenna Burkhart is tired of being “special” and hearing about what she can't do. Even though she suffered a head injury in a childhood swimming accident, she wants a life of her own just like any Amish woman. But now that she, her mamm, and her mammi have moved to Wells Landing, she's having a hard time fitting in. . . . Until she meets Buddy Miller, a boy just like her, who gives her the confidence to reach for the impossible . . .

Like Jenna, Buddy is used to being the boy no one expects much from, the one people see as “different.” Still, being around Jenna’s lively, kind-hearted ways makes him strive ever-harder to become the self-sufficient Amish man she deserves. But in the face of family disapproval and their own fears, will Jenna and Buddy's courage be enough to give them a forever happiness together?

About the Author:

Amy Lillard is an award-winning author of over forty novels and novellas ranging from Amish romance and mysteries to contemporary and historical romance. Since receiving a Carol Award for her debut novel, Saving Gideon (2012), she has become known for writing sweet stories filled with family values, honest characters, a hometown feel and close-knit communities. She is a member of RWA, ACFW, NINC, and the Author's Guild. Born and bred in Mississippi, she now lives with her husband and son in Oklahoma. Please visit her online at www.AmyWritesRomance.com.

My Thoughts:

Jenna - She remembers some parts of her life before the accident, when all was “normal.”  But since the accident, her new normal is being referred to as  “simple” or “special.”  It would probably be a little easier to handle if people would stop looking at her and treating her as if they feel sorry for her.  All Jenna wants is a life of her own, which seems impossible until she meets Buddy.

Buddy - Because he was born with Down Syndrome, Buddy’s  normal has always been that he is “special/simple.”  Yet people have always treated him kindly and made him feel accepted.  However, when Buddy lays eyes on a blue eyed angel, he decides all the more that he wants a life of his own.  

I was drawn in by how the author tells the story from Jenna and Buddy’s perspectives.  It took me on an emotional roller coaster ride.  At times it made laugh, and other times it made me sad, upset and even frustrated with how the actions of others affected Jenna and Buddy.  The author’s way of unfolding how their friendship and relationship began and developed was so special, tender and heartfelt.  Even when their families couldn’t see beyond their “uniqueness” to allow their relationship to grow, and even when adversities and challenges came their way, Jenna and Buddy remained steadfast and never gave up. They were truly inspirational.

Amy Lillard has outdone herself with Buddy and Jenna’s story.  The way she tells the story of these two “special” characters is simply flawless and I absolutely loved it!

*****I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All comments  and opinions and are strictly my own.*****

An Unlikely Amish Match (Indiana Amish Brides) by Vannetta Chapman

Book Description:

Is she about to fall for trouble?

She could never love an Amish rebel…Or could she?

Susannah Beiler is determined to protect the other young marriageable Amish women from falling for the new bad boy in town…by pretending to date Micah Fisher herself! Their deal is simple: she’ll keep him company if he stays away from her friends. But she doesn’t count on finding out there’s more to Micah than his reputation…

Indiana Amish Brides

About the Author:

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She is the author of over twenty novels, including the Pebble Creek Amish series, Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series, and Plain and Simple Miracle series. Vannetta is a Carol award winner, a Christy finalist, and she also received more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She currently writes Christian suspense, Amish romance, and Amish mystery. She was a teacher for 15 years and resides in the Texas hill country. For more information, visit her at: 

webpage -- www.VannettaChapman.com 

blog -- http://vannettachapman.com/blog

facebook -- www.facebook.com/VannettaChapmanBooks

pinterest -- http://pinterest.com/vannettachapman

instagram -- https://instagram.com/vannettachapman

twitter -- https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman

My Thoughts:

Susannah Beiler is considered serious, cautious and mature for her age.  But illness at a young age can do that to a person.  Micah Fisher, on the other hand, is more of a free spirit.  Maturity and seriousness don’t rank very high on his radar.  

Shortly after Micah arrives in Susannah’s community, gossip begins about his bad boy reputation.  Susannah tries to not to pass judgment, but she is concerned about him and how his ways will affect her friends, and thus makes it her job to protect them.  So, when Micah asks her about inviting one of her friends on an outing, Susannah shoots down that idea real quick.  She also makes excuses about all of her other friends.  Although Susannah had shut herself off from dating, she suggests herself as Micah’s “buddy/companion,” all in the name of protecting her friends.  And there begins Susannah’s journey into new and unfamiliar territory.

Things are a little different for Micah.  He’s the youngest child and only boy in his family.  Therefore, he’s always been coddled and catered to.  As a result, Micah struggles with being more “mature and serious.”  He enjoys life in the moment, seizing the day so to speak.  He and Susannah couldn’t be more polar opposites. Yet, Micah agrees with Susannah’s suggestion of being “buddies,” and thus also begins his own journey into new and unfamiliar territory.   

How will these two “buddies” fare in their new journeys?  Will Susannah let go of her fears and seriousness enough to begin enjoying life in the moment?  Will Micah be able to let go of living in the moment to become more mature and serious?  Will these polar opposites be able to see eye to eye?

Author Vannetta Chapman’s An Unlikely Amish Match is a sweet and wonderful story.  It’s a story of love, mystery, forgiveness, tenderness, sadness, joy, hope and faith.   It will draw you in from the start, keep you hooked, and leave you with a feeling of contentment and a smile on your face.  It’s definitely a read you won’t want to miss.

****I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All comments and opinions are my own.

The Amish Wedding Promise (Hidden Springs Book 1) by Laura V. Hilton

Book Description:

Could this bride's wedding disaster be a blessing in disguise?

Grace Lantz always imagined her wedding day would be a blissfully happy occasion. But after a tornado swept through town, she finds herself relieved that the ceremony is delayed. After all, her groom-to-be hasn't even bothered to check on her. Instead, it's the handsome volunteer Zeke Bontrager who selflessly offers Grace his strong shoulders to lean on.

Zeke came to Hidden Springs to assist a community in need. He didn't expect to meet his soul mate. Determined to ignore his feelings, Zeke promises to help reunite kind, beautiful Grace with her groom. But after spending time together, Grace confesses that she might not want to marry her fiancé after all. Can Zeke convince her that her true love is standing right in front of her? And can she find the courage to follow her heart?

About the Author:

Laura V. Hilton is an award-winning author with more than twenty Amish, contemporary, and historical romances. When she's not writing, she reviews books and writes devotionals for Seriously Write.

Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas.

When she's not writing, Laura enjoys reading, and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter, and her favorite holiday is Christmas.

To learn more about Laura, read her reviews, and find out about her upcoming releases, readers may visit:

lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com

www.familyfiction.com/authors/laura-v-hilton

www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q

booksbylaura.blogspot.com

My Thoughts:

Grace Lantz’s wedding day is interrupted by a horrible tornado.  However, instead of being sad, Grace is relieved.  Even so, she can’t understand why her fiancé hasn’t checked on her.  On the one hand, Grace wonders if the events are an answer to prayer, but on the other hand, she feels somewhat guilty wondering what has happened to her fiancé.  Grace is caring, loving, and dedicated to following God’s will.  But right now, the events have muddied the waters and she struggles to find answers about her future.

Enter Ezekiel “Zeke” Bontrager.  Zeke is part of a team from Shipshewana that has been sent to help in the aftermath of the tornado.  Zeke is also caring, loving, and dedicated to following God’s will.  What he knows is that God’s will would be easier if Grace were not in the picture.  As Zeke and Grace are drawn to each other, both know that due to Grace’s missing fiancé and a rule that forbids relief workers from dating, they must stay in the friend zone.  

As the story continues to unfold, you’ll meet some very special supporting characters (one of which is a funny temperamental dog) that add a special touch to the story, without overshadowing the main characters.  I especially applaud Laura V. Hilton for including Grace’s sister, Patience.  It’s not often that a special needs character is included in a story.  Ms. Hilton flawlessly portrayed Patience realistically and with all sincerity which made the story that much more endearing.

The Amish Wedding Promise is not just a story of love.  It’s a story of trusting God and fully seeking His will, especially when you can’t even imagine what plan and path He has for you.  I recommend you read it for yourself.  You will thoroughly enjoy it!  

****I received a copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are my own.

Dead Wrong (Agatha's Amish B&B Book 1) by Vannetta Chapman

Book Description:

A new Amish cozy mystery from Vannetta Chapman.

Who killed Russell Dixon?
When Agatha Lapp’s brother and sister-in-law are tragically killed in a buggy accident, Agatha relocates to the new Amish community in Hunt Texas, nestled in the Texas Hill Country. She’s there to make a success of her brother’s dream--an Amish B&B. Agatha is friendly, efficient, and capable. She's also a fifty-five year old widow who has learned to be independent. When she discovers Russell Dixon’s lifeless body in Cabin 3, she runs next door where retired detective Tony Vargas lives. The police determine that her guest died of natural causes, but as Agatha and Tony put together the events of the previous two days they become convinced that the police are Dead Wrong.
Dead Wrong is a story of discovering new friendships and embracing a different path in the midst of tragedy. Above all else, it's a story of God's grace and provision.

About the Author:

Vannetta Chapman is the author of 30 published books. She has written for Abingdon Press and Harvest House Publishers, and she currently writes for Harper Collins Christian Publishing and Harlequin/Love Inspired. Her books have hit the CBD Bestseller list, the Amazon bestseller list, and her most recent release, A Widow's Hope, debuted at #17 on Publishers Weekly mass market list. She's received numerous awards including the ACFW Carol Award for best mystery (Falling to Pieces), and she was a Christy Award finalist (Anna's Healing). She recently signed a contract for an additional six books with Harlequin/Love Inspired.

Chapman has a BA and MA in English literature from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has taught for numerous writing groups and speaks around the country on writing, how to publish, and steps to finding an agent and landing a publishing contract. Chapman’s releases include Amish romance, cozy mystery, novellas, romantic suspense, and dystopian. She has tutored writers in these genres and more. She currently teaches English at Central Texas College and writes full time. She's also the president for the Central Texas Chapter of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers).

For more information, visit her at
webpage -- www.VannettaChapman.com
blog -- http://vannettachapman.com/blog/
facebook -- www.facebook.com/VannettaChapmanBooks
pinterest -- http://pinterest.com/vannettachapman
instagram -- https://instagram.com/vannettachapman
twitter -- https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman

My Thoughts:

A Whodunit That Will Keep You Guessing Til the Very End!

From the minute I heard about Vannetta Chapman’s new Amish mystery series, I couldn’t contain my excitement.  Needless to say it was worth the wait!

One of the first things I loved about the story is that Agatha, the main character, is not a twenty or thirty something.  I’m not biased against that age group, but it was refreshing to have a main character that is a little more seasoned in age.  And what a fun and delightful character she is!  Agatha is strong in her faith.  She’s a hard worker and very caring, There were many times when her answer to questions and situations brought a smile to my face.  It would especially happen when she would matter of factly respond with, “I’m Amish,” as if that explained everything.  Although Agatha moved to Texas to take over her deceased brother’s  B&B, her attitude about the difficult situation was  accepting it as God’s will.  

Anthony “Tony” Vargas was almost Agatha’s exact opposite.  He’d suffered his wife’s illness and passing.  In his case, the loss kept just coasting day to day.  He was a a retired detective until Agatha’s knock on the door changed it all.  

As Agatha and Tony work together to solve the mystery of Russel Dixon’s death, a strong friendship is formed.  Along with the friendship comes healing to a hurting soul.  Add to that some fun moments, hold your breath moments, and a whodunit that has you wondering til the very end and you have a wonderfully entertaining cozy mystery which is sure to leave you wanting more. All of these reasons are what made me love this story, and I’m sure you’ll love it too!

*I received an advanced copy of this book by the author.  All opinions and comments are strictly my own.*

Hearts in Harmony by Beth Wiseman (An Amish Journey Novel Book 1)

Book Description:

They both love music. Will God deny what brings them such joy? 

Musical prodigy Levi Shetler hasn’t touched a piano since he secretly played one years ago. His strict Amish community forbids instruments or the singing of any music not in their approved songbook. Levi asks God often why music tempts him when playing an instrument isn’t allowed in his world. 

One person knows Levi’s talents: Mary Hershberger, the girl who promised years ago to keep his secret. Mary comes from a more liberal district than Levi, but she’s facing family troubles of her own. The mutual care for an aging Englischer, Adeline, reunites Mary and Levi as young adults. They realize that, despite their differences, they have a shared love of music—and a shared confusion about whether their talents are God-given gifts or temptations luring them into the Englisch world. 

The couple realizes they must compromise or part ways, but a tragic accident shakes their decision. Both Mary and Levi will need to reconcile what they love with what their hearts say is right—because even as their passion for music brings them together, it could be what tears them apart. 

The first novel in the new Amish Journeys series by bestselling author Beth Wiseman, Hearts in Harmony explores how far the heart will travel for the melody of love.

About the Author:

Bestselling and award-winning author Beth Wiseman has sold over two million books. She is the recipient of the coveted Holt Medallion, a two-time Carol Award winner, and has won the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award three times. Her books have been on various bestseller lists, including CBD, CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly. Beth and her husband are empty nesters enjoying country life in south central Texas. Visit her online at BethWiseman.com; Facebook: AuthorBethWiseman; Twitter: @BethWiseman; Instagram: @bethwisemanauthor.

https://www.amazon.com/Beth-Wiseman/e/B001JP7RNS/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

https://twitter.com/bethwiseman

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBethWiseman/

My Thoughts:

What is family?  Traditionally, we look at family as blood relatives.  However, author Beth Wiseman has created a delightful story which shows that family isn't just limited to the traditional definition, but it can be so much more.

Adeline, Levy, Mary, and Natalie.  At one time, all were strangers, each with his or her own challenges, struggles, and beliefs. However, a series of events unexpectedly brings these individuals together. As they come together, their bond is strengthened through moments of sadness and laughter, moments where beliefs are questioned, moments where challenges are faced, and moments where difficult decisions are made.  

Their story will immediately draw you in and keep you turning pages with its twists and turns.  There are moments that will have you smiling and laughing while others will have you reaching for tissue. But through it all, the bonds of love, faith and trust in God will bring their hearts together in harmony through the love of family.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

An Amish Reunion: Four Stories by Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, and Kelly Irvin

Book Description:

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four stories about reuniting with those you love. 

Their True Home by Amy Clipston

When Marlene Bawell moved from Bird-in-Hand ten years ago, she was in the deepest of mourning for her mother. Now her family has moved back so her father can seek employment after being laid off. To help save money, Marlene works at the hardware store owned by Rudy Swarey’s father. She knew Rudy growing up and had a secret crush on him, though he never seemed to notice her. But just as a friendship between them begins to blossom, her life is once again turned upside down. Will Marlene ever have a chance to find her own true home?

A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman

Ruth and Gideon Beiler experienced one of life’s most tragic events. Unable to get past their grief, the couple abandoned their Amish faith and went in different directions, though neither could bear to formally dissolve the marriage. When their loved ones reach out to them to come home for a family reunion, Ruth has reason to believe that Gideon won’t be there. Gideon also thinks that Ruth has declined the invitation. Family and friends are rooting for them to reunite, but will it all be enough for Ruth and Gideon to get past their grief and recapture a time when they were in love and had a bright future ahead of them?

A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller

Cevilla Schlabach, Birch Creek’s resident octogenarian matchmaker, is surprised when Richard, a man from her Englisch past, arrives in Birch Creek for a visit. While he and Cevilla take several walks down memory lane, they wonder what the future holds for them at this stage of life—friendship, or the possibility of something else?

Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin

At eighteen Hannah Kauffman made a terrible mistake. Her parents and members of her Jamesport Amish community say they’ve forgiven her. But she feels their eyes following her everywhere she goes with eighteen-month-old Evie. Thaddeus, Evie’s father, escaped this fate by running away from Jamesport. Now that Thaddeus is gone, Hannah’s old friend Phillip is stepping up to be by her side. He has waited patiently for Hannah to realize just how much he cares for her. But when Thaddeus returns after two years, Hannah can’t deny the love she feels for him. Does the fact that Phillip has waited patiently for her all this time mean that she owes him something? Can she trust either one of them? Can she trust herself? She has repented and been forgiven by the One who is most important—her heavenly Father. But is she willing to risk making more mistakes by opening herself up to love?

My Thoughts:

An Amish Reunion is a collaboration by four authors.  The stories are about love, faith, hope, family, and healing, and yet, each story is different.  Each author has woven these themes into their stories in their own unique way making this collaboration an inspiring and delightful read.

Their True Home by Amy Clipston

After ten years, Marlene Baxwell returns back to her home town.  She reintegrates into the community and runs into Rudy Swarey, her former crush from their school days. A friendship blossoms, but will it become more?

A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman

Can a couple recover what they once had after suffering a tragic loss?  Does time heal all wounds?  Ruth and Gideon Beiler reflect on these as they are reunited after years of separation.  Will love and God’s faithfulness bring these two back together?

A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller

Although one is Amish and the other Englisch, Cevilla Slabach and Richard Johnson were great friends in their younger days.  But decades have passed since they’ve seen or heard from one another.  However, life situations bring fond memories back to Richard and he decides to try and reconnect with Cevilla. Is love possible after all these years?

Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin

Mistakes in life are painful.  Hannah Kauffman lives this every day as she feels her community has forgiven, but not forgotten. Even so, she works hard and is doing her best in raising her child as a single parent. When Thaddeus Yoder returns home, Hannah struggles even more, not just with what others think, but about what she feels for Thaddeus.  He also feels the pain of life’s mistakes, but is working to change and make things right.  Will their love grow?  Will it bring forgiveness and healing?

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Perfect Amish Match (Indiana Amish Brides) by Vannetta Chapman

Book Description:

Every courting disaster has led him to her.

An Indiana Amish Brides story

After three failed relationships, Amish bachelor Noah Graber would rather disappoint his parents than try again. But when matchmaker Olivia Mae Miller agrees to provide courting lessons, Noah’s perfect match becomes clear—it’s Olivia Mae herself! With ailing grandparents at home, she hadn’t planned on love or marriage. Might a future with Noah be everything she’s been missing?

About the Author:

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She is the author of over twenty novels, including the Pebble Creek Amish series, Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series, and Plain and Simple Miracle series. Vannetta is a Carol award winner, a Christy finalist, and she also received more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She currently writes Christian suspense, Amish romance, and Amish mystery. She was a teacher for 15 years and resides in the Texas hill country. For more information, visit her at: 

webpage -- www.VannettaChapman.com 

blog -- http://vannettachapman.com/blog

facebook -- www.facebook.com/VannettaChapmanBooks

pinterest -- http://pinterest.com/vannettachapman

instagram -- https://instagram.com/vannettachapman

twitter -- https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman

My Thoughts:

Olivia Mae Miller’s stereotypical description of a matchmaker: “Old, maybe. Using a cane. Peering at you over my glasses and shaking my knitting needles at you.”

In reality this description does not even remotely describe Olivia Mae.  Old? Glasses? A cane? Not at all.  Olivia Mae is young, pretty, and never been married.  Yet, she’s known in her community as a very successful “matchmaker.”  And she’s also her grandparents’ caretaker. Although being their caretaker doesn’t affect her matchmaking skills, it constantly keeps challenges coming her way.

Enter Noah Graber.  Noah insists he’s “happily single” and that has no need for a matchmaker.    However, pressure from his family places him dead center in need of Olivia Mae’s matchmaking skills. 

What happens next takes these two on a humorous, challenging, faith filled, romantic  adventure that had me continually laughing and smiling (especially at Noah’s jokes) up to the very end. 

All in all, I found A Perfect Amish Match to be a thoroughly entertaining sweet, funny inspirational romance.  So, if this sounds like your kind of story, I highly recommend that you check it out.  And if it’s not your kind of story, check it out anyway.  You will be pleasantly surprised.

I was given a copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are my own.