Thursday, February 27, 2020

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.*****