The Amish Widow's New Love (Indiana Amish Market Book 6) by Vannetta Chapman

Book Details: 

Title: The Amish Widow's New Love 

Series: Indiana Amish Market Book 6

Author: Vannetta Chapman

Publisher: Love Inspired

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Pages: 215  

Genre: Amish Romance/Contemporary Christian Romance

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Book Description:

She thinks she’s done with romance

But love has other ideas…

When newly widowed Hope Lambright moves to Indiana with her three sons, the last thing on her mind is romance. And much like his new neighbor, widower Amos Yoder thought love was part of his past. But when Hope boldly asks Amos for a job at his Amish outdoor market, he finds he can’t say no, and soon their professional relationship blossoms into something more. They’ve both loved and lost once. Will they be brave enough to risk their hearts for a second time? 

My Thoughts: Loved This Story!

I absolutely loved this story! Amos and Hope's story is so much more than just a story of romance and faith. It deals with many real-life issues that are not dealt with very often. 

Changes, effects, and difficulties associated with new stages of life

Changes, effects, and difficulties of starting over in the unfamiliar

The importance of community support

Effects and difficulties associated with unexpected situations, regardless of the person's age

Difficulties young people face, especially in trying to deal with changes

Tough love

Although I know these issues are dealt with in other stories, author Vanneta Chapman's descriptive writing brings them so much to life that it makes the reader feel every bit of what the characters are going through. And though this does come up often, I love that this story deals with a second chance at love during a later stage in life rather than at a young age. 

All of this makes for a wonderful and endearing story that should not be missed.

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

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About the Author: Vannetta Chapman

Vannetta Chapman is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 50 full length novels, plus various novella collections.

She has sold more than one million copies and has written for Abingdon Press, Harvest House Publishers, Harper Collins Christian Publishing, and Love Inspired. She also publishes dystopian and technothrillers independently. Chapman has received numerous awards including the ACFW Carol Award for best mystery (Falling to Pieces), and Christy Award finalist (Anna's Healing).

Chapman received an MA degree in English from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has 20 years of experience as a high school teacher as well as an adjunct college professor. She also speaks to writing groups on how to get published, plotting your novel, what's in a mystery, how to acquire an agent, and more.

Chapman is currently a full-time writer and makes her home in the Texas Hill Country. She is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Literary Agency.  

Lizzie's Little Mouse (The Heart of the Amish Book 8) by Anne Blackburne

Book Details: 

Title: Lizzie's Little Mouse 

Series: The Heart of the Amish Book 8

Author: Anne Blackburne

Publisher: Barbour

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Pages: 256  

Genre: Amish Romance

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Book Description:

Lizzie Has Dreams That Won’t Be Deterred
 
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this new series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
 
Ever since attending a wedding in Louisiana, Lizzie Miller has been fascinated by French baked goods. With permission of her parents and bishop, she did a two-year internship in a French bakery in New Orleans. When a local Amish bakery became available, she bought it and opened her own French inspired bakery.
 
But now someone wants her out of business. During her grand opening, a strange man accosts her, then a brick is tossed through her window wrapped in a note telling her to leave. Someone breaks into her apartment above the bakery, and her cat chases the intruder out.
 
With the help of her friends, Lizzie will get to the bottom of why someone wishes her to fail. And at the same time, she’ll realize that sometimes dreams can be fulfilled with what—or who—was always close at hand, just waiting to be noticed.

My Thoughts: Joy to Read

The story is such a wonderful mix! It is a mix of some long-standing relationships between friends that become even more solidified through work but also through a mystery that gets them working together in a different way. Through it all, one relationship takes on an entirely new direction, which is quite endearing and entertaining. Along the way, many sweet and funny occurrences had me laughing out loud more than once, making the story all the more captivating. When you add the mystery, romance, and faith together, along with one very intuitive little feline, you have a great story that is a joy to read. 

Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own. 

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About the Author:  Anne Blackburne

Anne Blackburne lives and works in Southeast Ohio as a newspaper editor and writer. She is the mother of five grown children, has one wonderful grandchild, and a spoiled poodle named Millie. For fun, when she isn’t working on Amish romance or sweet mysteries, Anne directs and acts in community theater productions and writes and directs original plays. She also enjoys reading, kayaking, swimming, searching for beach glass, and just sitting with a cup of coffee looking at large bodies of water. Her idea of the perfect vacation is cruising and seeing amazing new places with people she loves. 

 

Murder in the Appalachians by Susan Furlong

Book Details: 

Title: Murder in the Appalachians 

Series: 

Author: Susan Furlong

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Pages: 206  

Genre: Christian Suspense/Clean & Wholesome Romance

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Book Description:

On the run in the mountains…

with a killer on their trail.

After unearthing secrets from her late brother’s police notebook, journalist Emma Hayes discovers his death was no accident—he was murdered. Only someone doesn’t want Emma to find out the connection to the cold case her brother was investigating…and they’ll kill to keep it that way. Now Emma must rely on local ER doctor Logan Greer to help her stay alive and follow a trail of elusive evidence. But as they unravel a conspiracy, they realize that the killer could be anyone hiding in the mountains…

My Thoughts: Wow!

Wow! This is one book I could not put down! The mystery and intrigue had me guessing the entire time, and as much as I tried, I could not figure out "who had done it" until the end. Family, friendship, faith, and romance added even more to Emma and Logan's story, and the mystery surrounding it kept me on the edge of my seat. Every time I thought it was all wrapped up, another curve ball got thrown in. All of this made for a great read that I highly recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy that I received. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author:  Susan Furlong

Susan Furlong grew up in North Dakota where she spent long winters at her local library scouring the shelves for mysteries to read. Now, she lives in Illinois with her husband and children and writes mysteries of all types. She has over a dozen published novels and her work has earned a spot in the New York Times list of top crime fiction books of the year. When not writing, she volunteers at her church and spends time hiking and fishing.  http://www.susanfurlong.com/

 

The Farmer's Marrige Bargain (Triple C Ranch Book 4) by Heidi Main

 

Book Details: 

Title: The Farmer's Marriage Bargain 

Series: Triple C Ranch Book 4

Author: Heidi Main

Publisher: Love Inspired

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Pages: 211  

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance

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Book Description:

They agreed to a practical marriage

But love never goes as planned…

Raising three children alone was never part of the plan, but after losing her husband, Emma Bailey is doing the best she can. Until she discovers that she can’t afford the medication her youngest child needs. Suddenly, her late husband’s best friend comes to the rescue. Carter McCaw promised he’d always watch over the family and the farm. But when he proposes a marriage of convenience, Emma’s not so sure. It seems like the perfect solution…until love blooms between them and complicates everything. 

My Thoughts: Lovely Story

While the marriage of convenience trope is not usually my favorite, this one ultimately won me over. I loved that Emma and Carter had a history that connected them, the premise that they married under, and the way their relationship developed. But I especially loved the three little ones and how they fit into everything. 

The story is full of love, hope, family, overcoming, and faith. It is also about letting go of what we know and being comfortable with being open to God's leading to a new and unexpected path. Each element played a very special part in Emma and Carter's relationship that made theirs a very lovely, profound, and deeply felt story that was a joy to read and one that I recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary copy. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own. 

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About the Author: Heidi Main

Bestselling author Heidi Main writes sweet inspirational romance novels set in small towns. She lives in the suburbs, but dreams of acreage and horseback riding, which is why her novels include wide-open ranches and horses. Before starting her writing career, Heidi worked with computers and taught Jazzercise. A perfect Saturday is lounging on the deck with her husband and watching the many birds in their backyard. Learn more about her books at heidimain.com.  

Courting Daniel's Daughter (Daniel's Daughters series Book 1) by Mindy Steele

Book Details: 

Title: Courting Daniel's Daughter

Series: Daniel's Daughters, Book 1

Author: Mindy Steele

Publisher: Steele Publishing

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Pages: 218  

Genre: Amish Romance

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Book Description:

Jesse Plank promised to keep a secret. A secret that drove him away from his home eight years ago. But when his father is injured, Jesse must return to help provide for his family. Finding Catherine still the beauty he remembered might convince him to stay.
Becoming Amish wasn’t the same as being born Amish. Thankfully for Catherine Raber, her terrible school years are behind her and life is looking up. That was until the last person she ever wanted to see again arrived in Miller’s Creek. Worse, her father just gave him a job.

My Thoughts: Highly Recommend

Much to Catherine Raber's dismay, a family situation has brought Jesse Plank, her childhood nemesis, back home, which is sure to cause some unwanted and unsettling feelings and situations. As Catherine and Jesse find themselves constantly in each other's company, they each experience a myriad of emotions and "what ifs." 

The author's descriptive writing made me feel completely connected to the characters. I experienced an emotional roller coaster of feelings toward Catherine. One minute, I was cheering her on, and the next, I wanted to knock some sense into her. On the other hand, I found Jesse endearing. Despite all he had endured and continued to face, he remained steadfast, caring, loving, protective, and deeply grounded in his faith. 

Catherine and Jesse's story is one of faith, second chances, forgiveness, and love. It captivated me from the very first words and kept me engaged until the end. It is a beautiful, heartfelt story that I highly recommend. 

I received a complimentary copy of the book with no requirement to leave a review. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author: Mindy Steele

Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele writes Amish Romance peppered in humor, using her rural surroundings as her muse. She is a best selling author and the winner of the 2022 and 2024 FHLCW Reader's Choice award for sweet romance. Steele creates realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy ever after ending. Readers can find themselves, somewhere within her pages.   

Our Daily Bread for Kids: 90 Jesus & Me Devotions by Crystal Bowman & Teri McKinley

Book Details: 

Title: Our Daily Bread for Kids: 90 Jesus & Me Devotions 

Author: Crystal Bowman & Teri McKinley

Publisher: Our Daily Bread Publishing

Release Date: February 4, 2025

Pages: 112 

Genre: Children's Devotional Christianity Books

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Book Description:

Connect Kids to Jesus This Easter

This 90-day devotional encourages boys and girls ages 6 to 10 to recognize Jesus in God's big plan for the world and its people. Filled with beautiful, playful illustrations, each reading includes:

• Engaging stories from Genesis to Revelation
• Bible text from easy-to-understand versions
• "Explore More" reading suggestions
• "Talk to God" prayer starters
• Daily truths to remember
• And "Did You Know?" fun facts ranging through history and spanning the globe

Award-winning and best-selling authors Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley, along with illustrator Anita Schmidt, shine a spotlight on Jesus throughout the whole Bible—from His role at creation, to Old Testament prophecies and metaphors about the coming Savior, to the birth of God’s Son, to His present seat beside the Father.

Featuring selections from the popular Our Daily Bread for Kids: 365 Devotions from Genesis to Revelation, this edition makes a meaningful gift for the kids in your life at Easter, baptism, dedication, or any time! Children will discover for themselves God’s desire to be known and how He made a way through Jesus. 

My Thoughts: Perfect

I think this is a perfect devotional for children. The passages are a perfect length for children and include questions along the way to aid in discussion. Each story also has a Talking to God section that helps guide prayer. It also includes a Did You Know section that has a fun fact connected to the story. Each page is visually appealing, and the font is easy to read.

The suggested ages are 6 - 10, with the grade levels being Kindergarten - 3rd. However, with some of the vocabulary that is used, I feel the devotional is better suited for ages 7 - 11 and grade levels as mid to late 1st grade - 3rd. 

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Authors: Crystal Bowman & Teri McKinley  

Crystal Bowman is a bestselling, award-winning author of more than 100 books for children and families. More than three million copies of her books have been sold internationally, with several titles being translated into foreign languages. She and her husband enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren. 

Teri McKinley grew up in the world of publishing with her mother, Crystal Bowman, and is the coauthor of My Mama and Me—Rhyming Devotions for You and Your Child. She holds a master’s degree from Arizona State University and lives with her husband and two sons in east Texas.

With All Her Heart (Amish Calling Book 3) by Kelly Irvin

Book Details: 

Title: With All Her Heart 

Author: Kelly Irvin

Series: Amish Calling Book 3

Publisher: Zondervan

Pages: 381

Release Date: January 28, 2025

Genre: Amish Romance

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Book Description:

Elijah Miller is a quiet and painfully shy man with a talent for carving the handmade toys and furniture that tourists in the Amish shops love. The large, boisterous Miller family is anything but shy. With a thriving auction business, they want him to do what he hates most: taking the stage and calling the auctions. He loves his family and wants to support them, but will they allow room for Elijah to follow his own dream?

Bonnie Yoder began the Homespun Handicrafts with her friends, Sophia and Carol. Each has a physical disability to overcome but together they prove that wheelchairs and rollators will not stop them from building a business and a craft community. Bonnie, with her chestnut curls and pretty face, yearns for a husband and family of her own but fears her spinal condition will keep any Amish man from choosing a life with her. Can a man like Elijah see past her walker to the woman behind it?

With the support of his beloved dog, Slowpoke, Elijah finds the courage to bring in samples of his handcrafted toys for Bonnie to consider for display in the shop. Through her advice, Elijah begins to see a possible new life doing what he loves best. Bonnie, in reconnecting with this old school friend, fears that the hope for a relationship that she feels may be another disappointment.

Can Elijah and Bonnie help each other find the lives they want and the love they desire?

My Thoughts: Deeply Touching Story

This story is beautiful, touching, heartfelt, inspiring, and insightful. The author's description of the difficulties of dealing with illness and limited mobility is touching and sincere. This makes the characters that much more real, and I deeply feel everything about them: their challenges, their faith, their feelings, and so much more. 

The author also does a fantastic job of describing the difficulties and challenges faced when one cannot fully pursue what one's heart desires and one's talents dictate, especially when family logistics play a part. 

How those elements, along with faith, perseverance, and hope, played into Bonnie and Elijah's story is what makes With All Her Heart a beautiful and deeply touching story of love, faith, and God's will. 

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author: Kelly Irvin

Kelly Irvin is a bestselling, award-winning author of over thirty novels and stories. A retired public relations professional, Kelly lives with her husband, Tim, in San Antonio. They have two children, four grandchildren, and two ornery cats. Visit her online at KellyIrvin.com; Instagram: @kelly_irvin; Facebook: @Kelly.Irvin.Author; X: @Kelly_S_Irvin.