The Christmas Remedy Review

 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? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I just love Christmas books. The covers are beautiful and the stories cozy. I really like Cindy's books because she always takes you on a unique adventure. This story talks a lot about modern medicine but from an Amish perspective. There is a perfect mix of mystery and romance that make this book a fun Christmas read. I thought the romance was a bit rushed and not really my favorite part. What I really liked about this book is how it made me think. I am not medical minded in any way and it got me to researching Amish ways and how their life expectancy has always been longer. Truly interesting topic and if you are expecting the typical Amish story you will be surprised. 

I also have really been enjoying the collaboration of Cindy and Erin, it makes for great reading! 

Four Stars. 

"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

The Return Book Review

About the Book

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 when she's taken captive in a surprise Indian raid. During her captivity, Betsy faces brutality and hardship, but also unexpected kindness. She draws strength from native Caleb, who encourages her to find God in all circumstances. She finds herself torn between her pious upbringing and the intense new feelings this compelling man awakens within her.
Handsome and complex, Hans is greatly anguished by Betsy's captivity and turns to Tessa Bauer for comfort. Eagerly, Tessa responds, overlooking troubling signs of Hans's hunger for revenge. When Betsy is finally restored to the Amish, have things gone too far between Hans and Tessa?
Inspired by true events, this deeply layered novel gives a glimpse into the tumultuous days of prerevolutionary Pennsylvania through the eyes of two young, determined, and faith-filled women. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I picked up this book because of all the great reviews this entire series was getting. Before reading this one I went back and read book one, which I thought was helpful but not necessary. Amish can be very hit or miss for me so I will say if you want a unique Amish story line, look no further. This series is all about wonderful history including a great story line with Native Americans. I love any book that has this type of thread in it and it was my favorite part of the book. Now I will say that there was a lot going on, multiple stories happening from different points of view. Honestly at times I just wanted to read about Betsy and her life with the Indians. Also, the end of the book took me by surprise just a tad and I have mixed feelings on how it ended. I think for Amish readers, you will enjoy this book. History lovers will find it interesting. I thought it was okay. Not my favorite but still a great idea/setting.

"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own."

Gathering of Threads Book Review

 

 About the Book

After three months ofdraus in da Welt, Ariana has returned to Summer Grove, the Old Order Amish community where she was raised for twenty years, and life with her Brenneman family. Skylar Nash, the Englisch-raised young woman is working in Ariana s cafe while getting to know her birth family and their Plain way of life. Skylar's time in Summer Grove has changed her outlook, just as Ariana has grown to see her personal faith in God in a different light than the manner she was taught while growing up. Both women will have to make decisions about their paths and Ariana must decide what role her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, will play in her life.
Gathering the Threadsis the third and final novel in the Amish of Summer Grove series." (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

This is the last book in this trilogy about two young women whose lives got turned upside down starting in book one. If you haven't read these books in order, you really should or many things simply won't make much sense. I think this final book wrapped things up nicely. Both Ariana and Skylar grew a lot as did the many secondary characters. I feel like perhaps things were rushed a bit at the end. The story moved a bit slow for me and then all of the sudden the book was over and issues solved. That being said, Cindy Woodsmall does a terrific job when it comes to Amish fiction. If you aren't sure about reading Amish books, she is a great author to start with! While this hasn't been my favorite series by her, I still enjoyed these books and I look forward to what Woodsmall writes next!

"Thanks to Blogging for Books for giving me a free copy to review. All opinions are my own." 

Fraying at the Edge Book Review

 

 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 help steady Ariana s tilting ground between the 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 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 pray for 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." (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

This is the second book in a series and suggest that you read book one in order to fully understand Fraying at the Edge. Cindy Woodsmall has such a way of capturing Amish life and making it an enjoyable story. She makes life real and not fluffy. This book continues the crazy lives of Ariana and Skylar. They are totally lost in their new worlds and we get to see their journey. So not only do you read about Amish life, but how different it is from the outside world. I liked the secondary characters as well and I am curious to read what happens next. The book left me hanging so I'm sure there will be a third addition. Cindy Woodsmall is my favorite Amish author so I recommend all of her books!

Four stars. 

"I received this book from Blogging For Books for free in exchange for an honest review."

Amish Christmas At North Star Review

 

 About the Book

One night four lives entered the world by the hands of an Amish midwife, just outside North Star, Pennsylvania.
Rebekah’s Babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, a possibility of love, and the wonder of Christmas.

Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Curiosity gets the best of Englischer Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?

Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac.  Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jesse, an angry Englischer, or someone else?

In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Heartbroken Kore Detweiler avoids North Star after Savilla Beiler rejects his love.  But when he is unexpectedly called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.

Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner left North Star to join a new Amish settlement in Mississippi. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in a reclusive widower’s life.

 My Thoughts

Amish is not what I always love to read, but since Katie Ganshert wrote one of the stories I had to read it! I also like Cindy Woodsmall as well and ends up their two stories are my favorite in this book. The first story is so very good and it leads into the rest of the stories as well. Each story, while different, all tie in together which makes this book one of the better collections I have read. The setting is a cozy Christmas scene and makes you want it to start snowing! All of the characters are well written by each author and if you like reading Amish fiction you will enjoy this book!

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."

Gather Around the Amish Table Cookbook

About the Book

Straight from Amish kitchens to yours, this cookbook offers favorite family recipes and charming stories from Amish and Mennonite cooks. Bake the pecan rolls that taste best after an ice-skating party, or try the hoagies that a community sold to help an Amish family with hospital bills. Discover the cocoa cupcakes with instructions to “stir by hand” that one young cook took literally, or whip up the whoopie pies that one Amish woman took to market in her horse and buggy.

These cherished recipes speak of comforting traditions, lively communities, and strong Christian faith. Gather your family around the table to sample the nourishing fare and trademark charm of the plain people. In the words of one cookbook contributor: “Bake someone happy!” (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Amish food is so very delicious. They use basic ingredients but make really unique dishes that I never would have even thought of. Most of the recipes have a little story to go with them. Simple instructions, such as: wrap leftover pizza in foil for kids to take to school so they can heat them up on the wood stove. This made me smile because I grew up with a wood stove. There are also instructions on how to feed 180 men for a barn raising, you have to appreciate communities such as that! Anyway the book  has given me new ideas, such as different chowders, desserts, and ways to cook potatoes.

 The only thing is that there really aren't very many pictures. I realize me saying that sounds silly, but in this day and age there are A LOT of cookbooks and some make more sense to me because of the many pictures.

So this is a great book if you are looking for some yummy Amish recipes!

Five Stars.

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

Incorporate Amish cooking traditions this fall in your kitchen with Lucy Leid's Gather Around the Amish Table. Straight from Amish kitchens to yours, this cookbook offers favorite family recipes and charming stories from Amish and Mennonite cooks. Gather your family around the table to sample the nourishing fare and trademark charm of the plain people. In the words of one cookbook contributor: “Bake someone happy!”

Get your fall baking underway with an Amish baking basket giveaway from Lucy and MennoMedia!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Gather Around the Amish Table
• An Amish baking basket full of goodies

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 29th. The winner will be announced September 30th on the Litfuse blog.

Ties That Bind Review

 About the Book

Ariana’s comfortable Old Order Amish world is about to unravel. Will holding tightly to the cords of family keep them together—or simply tear them apart?

Twenty-year-old Ariana Brenneman loves her family and the Old Ways. She has two aspirations: open a café in historic Summer Grove to help support her family’s ever-expanding brood and to keep any other Amish from being lured into the Englisch life by Quill Schlabach.

Five years ago Quill, along with her dear friend Frieda, ran off together, and Ariana still carries the wounds of that betrayal. When she unexpectedly encounters him, she soon realizes he has plans to help someone else she loves leave the Amish.
*
Despite how things look, Quill’s goal has always been to protect Ariana from anything that may hurt her, including the reasons he left. After returning to Summer Grove on another matter, he unearths secrets about Ariana and her family that she is unaware of. His love and loyalty to her beckons him to try to win her trust and help her find a way to buy the café—because when she learns the truth that connects her and a stranger named Skylar Nash, Quill knows it may upend her life forever.

Ties That Bind is the first novel in the Amish of Summer Grove series. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Cindy Woodsmall is a talented writer and I tend to enjoy her Amish stories more than other authors. This book was a bit slow for me. I liked the overall story line of past secrets and Amish life along with the outside world. It was just a bit predictable. At the start of the book it's made into a big mystery and I was super confused. Then the story line continued and moved really slow. There is a mixture between Amish life and the lives of some characters that aren't Amish so that was different. 

I guess this book just didn't stick with me, though it was well written. 

Four stars. 

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."

Called to be Amish Review

 About the Book

Fewer than one hundred people have joined the Old Order Amish and stayed since 1950. Marlene C. Miller is one of them. In this rare memoir, Marlene recounts her unhappy and abusive childhood, how she throws herself into cheerleading and marching band, and how she falls in love with Johnny, the gentle young Amish man who helps her lace her ice skates. Against the wishes of both sets of parents, Marlene and Johnny get married and begin a family. Follow the author on this unusual journey to find out how God s love called her out of bitterness and depression and into the warm embrace of her new Amish community. Accompany her as she dons an Amish dress and prayer covering and gets baptized. Learn how she endures the strain of ten children, a hundred-acre farm, and accidents and tragedy, and find out how she comes close to walking away from it all. Turning Amish has proven to be anything but plain and simple for this former majorette. But nearly fifty years later, Marlene is still living out God s call as an Old Order Amish woman.(Goodreads)

My Review

  I love reading about other people's lives and this book takes you into the heart of Amish life. There are so many fiction accounts on Amish romance and whatnot but I found this book to be interesting because it's a real story. Marlene grew up in the modern world of her time but after meeting a young man things changed and she is one of the very few who have joined the Old Order Amish community and stayed. While at times the book seemed to jump around from one story to another I really enjoyed it. I liked reading about the work, how things are done, children, and the faith. I think this book really opens your eyes to this life and how generations of people have lived strictly for years. If the Amish interest you, you will find this book rewarding to read. 

Highly recommend. 

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1ESK6eR

About the author:

Marlene C. Miller joined the Amish as an adult and has been a member of the Old Order Amish for almost 50 years. She and her husband of 48 years live on a farm in Ohio surrounded by their nine children, more than 40 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Christmas at Rose Hill Farm Book Review

About the Book

Bess Riehl is preparing Rose Hill Farm for her Christmas wedding, but her groom isn't who she thought it would be. Billy Lapp is far away from his Amish roots working as a rose rustler for Penn State and wants nothing to do with Stoney Ridge, his family, or Bess. And that suits Bess just fine. Why should she think twice about a man who left without a word, without any explanation? It's time she moved on with her life, and that meant saying yes to Amos Lapp, Billy's cousin and best friend. But as Bess and Amos's wedding day draws near, her emotions tangle into a tight knot. She loves Amos. Yet she can't forget Billy.

When a "lost" rose is discovered at Rose Hill Farm, Billy is sent to track down its origins. Get in, identify the rose, and get out. That's his plan. The only catch is that he's having a hard time narrowing down the identity of the lost rose, and he can't get those tropical blue eyes of Bess Riehl out of his mind.

As the history of the lost rose is pieced together, it reminds Bess and Billy--and Amos, too--that Christmas truly is the season of miracles.

Join bestselling, award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher for an Amish Christmas to remember. Filled with heart-twisting moments amid the sweet anticipation of love, this story will charm readers into the holiday spirit. (Goodreads)

My Review

I was actually happily surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I have read many Amish books and I never know if I will enjoy them or not. This book has great characters-realistic characters that sucked me into the story line. I also LOVE all of the information about roses! I had no idea how anyone saved or grafted roses let alone think about the ones that were brought over from Europe. This book really spurred my interest in flowers, I think I might have to do some research myself.

The storyline is a bit predictable but I was still intrigued by the romance.

I liked this view of the Amish life as well.
Great Christmas read or anytime read.

Highly recommend! Even if you aren't a huge Amish fan, this book is really pretty good.

"I received this ARC book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."

A Love Undone Book Review

via

 About the Book

A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone. A young woman who sacrificed her dreams. How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way? At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face. Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him – that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene. As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God’s guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?(Cindy Woodsmall)

My Review

 

I really enjoy Cindy's writing because I find it to be unique. Many Amish stories are all too similar but Cindy does a good job in keeping the stories real and different. This book has a great twist to it that I definitely did not see coming. The characters I really loved. Jolene goes through so much in such a short time, grief, more grief, confusion, hope, and shattered dreams. Jolene's love for her siblings was evident and I really like that because it seems so easy for families to be ripped apart. I think that was my favorite aspect in this book. The closeness of family, even when it's a difficult decision to remain close. 

While I still don't understand why the Amish do some things, why some things are forbidden, I still like reading about a different lifestyle. This book has so much to it and Cindy has created another beautiful story. 

I rate four stars, simply because it got a little slow in the middle. 

• More Info
• Author Bio

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."

Seasons of Tomorrow Book Review

 

 About the Book

As love restores Rhoda, a sudden tragedy is the test of faith she never saw coming...
More settled in her heart than ever before, Rhoda Byler feels a newfound confidence living in the Old Order Amish settlement she helped establish in Orchard Bend, Maine. Though it has been almost a year since one brother left, Rhoda is happy to be working alongside the other brother as they tend and nurture the settlement's orchard. Time has helped to heal Rhoda's wounds, and she finds that even her unusual gift of profound intuition is less of a burden as she continues to seek God's wisdom and purpose for her life.
But when an Englischer friend's grandchild is taken deeper into hiding from her grandmother, can Rhoda's gift make a difference or will it simply be a catalyst to another season of doubt and misunderstanding? As she resolves to stay on course, suddenly a shocking tragedy challenges the young settlement like never before, threatening to uproot Rhoda's peace and the future of everything she holds dear. (Goodreads)

My Review

Cindy Woodsmall is a great story teller. I have enjoyed her books from the start and I am not a huge fan of Amish fiction. This entire series has been so unique and different I have no choice but to continue reading! The first book in the Amish Vines and Orchards series is the best but they are a continuing story and go together as one main story line. The last book adds a great closure to the story lines and I really enjoyed the last few chapters. One of things I love is how Cindy includes a section at the beginning of the book to say what has happened in the past books. This helps the reader remember the details then continue on with the story.  I wish more book series had this because a little refresher is so helpful! 

This books addresses the complicated love triangle that started in book one but also includes varying characters which I thought added more to the last book. 

If you are new to Amish fiction or looking for a different Amish story line, these books are a must read. 

Learn more about the author and the books:

• Author's Website
• Facebook
• GoodReads
• More Info
• Author Bio

"I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review."

Read my reviews for the previous books: 

A Season for Tending

For Every Season

A Christmas Gift For Rose Book Review

Picture Credit

 About the Book

Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But as she prepares to marry, she's thrown into confusion when she learns the truth of her birth. She was born Englisch and abandoned when the family moved on in search of work. Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind---Englischers? And was her intended's gift of discovering her birth family given out of love or fear? 

My Review

For an Amish book this is one of my favorite. This is one of the best books that I have read by Tricia Goyer. The plot is creative and I love that it is based on a true story. Miss Rose is Amish and her love has come back from war, she is hurt that he disrespected his Amish roots and is worried they can no longer get married. Meanwhile Rose discovers a secret about her past and is unsure on how to handle her future with the new knowledge. As Rose works through her new mystery she discovers what is really important. Overall I enjoyed this book, though at times Rose was over dramatic for me. Amish readers will enjoy this cozy Christmas read! 

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

 Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her first Christmas novella, A Christmas Gift for Rose, with a Christmas Gift giveaway! 

Enter to win a NEW Kindle Fire HDX for you AND one for a friend!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX and one to give away to a friend!
• A Christmas Gift for Rose, by Tricia Goyer for you and your friend!

Four second place winners will receive:

• A Christmas Gift for Rose Christmas pack (includes a recipe card, bookmark, a signed book plate, discussion questions, and a Gathering & Giving handout!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 19th. All winners will be announced October 21st at Tricia's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Tricia's blog on the 21st to see if you won one of the great prizes! (Or better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)

A Plain Disappearance Book Review

Picture Credit

 About the Book

USA Today recently hailed award-nominated author Amanda Flower for A Plain Death, calling it “the first Amish rom-com . . . bring on the next one!” As the enthusiastic reviews continue to mount, she’s back with her third Appleseed Creek mystery, A Plain Disappearance. It’s Christmastime in Amish Country, and Chloe Humphrey has begun settling into her life in Appleseed Creek excited to see where her new relationship with Timothy Troyer will lead. Unfortunately it leads to murder when the couple discovers the body of Amish teenager Katie Lambright while on their first date. Near the scene there is evidence that Timothy’s friend and auto mechanic Billy Thorpe is involved with the crime. The police reveal Billy is not really who he said he was and has been living the last decade in Knox County under a stolen alias. Now, Chloe and Timothy must find Billy, bring him to justice, or prove his innocence.  

My Review 

This is the first Appleseed Creek Mystery I have read and I will say I was impressed. Most Amish books are very similar and this one was a lot different since there is a murderer on the loose. I enjoyed following Chloe and Timothy throughout the book to find the killer. This is a very well written thought out mystery that has a great surprise ending. For those who enjoy a little mystery and Amish lifestyle this is a great read! 

 "I received this book from Handlebar for free in exchange for an honest review."

For Every Season Book Review

Picture Credit

About the Book

Working hard to develop a new Amish community outside of Unity, Maine, Rhoda Byler is fully committed to rehabilitating an orchard with business partner Samuel King. But an impulsive decision has created an unexpected strain in her relationship with her beau, Samuel’s brother, Jacob, threatening plans for the orchard. Amidst mounting tension in matters of the heart and business, Rhoda finds that this fledging settlement feels like the home she has always longed for, and she begins to embrace the God-given, heightened intuition that has always felt like a burden to her. She longs for Jacob to fully be free of his past, so they can work towards the future together.

But as Rhoda uses her gift to unpack an old secret with her Englisch neighbors, it is not her beau but an unlikely ally that cheers her on. With the orchard on shaky ground and Jacob’s plans in question, Rhoda is determined to see things through to harvest. But can she trust her insight to direct her path in matters of the heart? (Goodreads)

My Review

Having read the first two books in the Amish Vines and Orchards Series I had to read For Every Season. Throughout the books there has been an ongoing love triangle that has confused me to no end. While this is not my favorite part of story, I was anxious to know what Rhoda decided. I really love the character of Rhoda because she is so different than the many other Amish fiction girls I have read about. Premonitions that Rhoda seems to have are discussed in more detail in this book which is what I enjoy reading about. While I'm sure this pushes the edge for many who read Christian fiction, I think that it is a great gift that Rhoda has. 

Overall the first book in the series is still my favorite but the third is a must read if you have followed the rest of the series. If you have not read the first two books, I don't recommend reading this one separately. There is far too much information in the previous books that continue on into this one. 

For Amish fiction lovers you will enjoy this series!

By the way have you seen the cover? Beautiful!

"I received this book from WaterBrook Multnomah for free in exchange for an honest review."

To learn more about this series stop by Cindy's website.

The Letters Book Review

Picture Credit

 About the Book

Rose Schrock is a plain woman with a simple plan. Determined to find a way to support her family and pay off her late husband's debts, she sets to work to convert the basement of her Amish farmhouse into an inn. While her family, especially her cranky mother-in-law, is unhappy with Rose's big idea, her friend and neighbor, Galen King, supports the decision and he helps with the conversion. As Rose finalizes preparations for visitors, she prays. She asks God to bless each guest who stays at the Inn at Eagle Hill. As the first guest arrives and settles in, Rose is surprised to discover that her entire family is the one who receives the blessings, in the most unexpected ways. And she's even more surprised when that guest decides to play matchmaker for Galen King.
With her signature plot twists combined with gentle Amish romance, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites readers back to Stoney Ridge for fresh stories of simple pleasures despite the complexity of life. Fisher's tale of God's providence and provision will delight her fans and create many new ones. Welcome to the Inn at Eagle Hill. (Goodreads)

My Review

When I got this book I was really hoping that it would be uniquely Amish and a fun story. There are some good parts, and the general idea of the book is good- starting an inn to support her family while learning life lessons. But this was not a book that I could get into reading, or relate with characters. I kept getting to the next chapter and flipping to see how much longer the book was. I hate to say that about any book but that is what happened. Amish lovers will enjoy the twist and tales but if you are on the edge about reading much Amish fiction I wouldn't pick this book up. 

"I received this from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

 

Suzanne Woods Fisher is celebrating the release of the first book, The Letters, in her new series by giving away 2 iPads, 2 Kindle Fires and 2 Nook HDs! Wow!

Two grand prize winners will receive:

• An iPad
• The Letters by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Four second place winners will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HD or a Nook HD - winner's choice!
• The Letters by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 17th. All winners will be announced August 19th at Suzanne's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Suzanne's blog on the 19th to see if you won one of the great prizes! (Or better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)

Still Life in Shadows

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 About the Book

It’s been fourteen years since Gideon Miller ran away from his Amish community in Carlisle, Pennsylvania as a boy of sixteen.  Gideon arrives in the Smoky Mountains town of Twin Branches and settles in at the local auto mechanic's garage. He meets a host of interesting characters –the most recent acquaintances are Kiki, an autistic teen, and her sister Mari. Known as the "Getaway Savior" he helps other Amish boys and girls relocate to life in modern America.
On day the phone rings. On the other end is his brother Moriah calling from Florida. Of course Gideon welcomes his brother to stay with him and offers him a job. But Moriah is caught in a web which ends in his death and forces Gideon to return to the town of his youth, with his brother’s body in the back of a hearse and Mari and Kiki at his side. He must face not only the community he ran away from years ago but also his own web of bitterness. Will he be able to give his anger over to God and forgive his father?(Goodreads)

  

My Review

I had read a lot of reviews about this book before I received it in the mail. The start of the book I was completely interested. There is intrigue and multiple characters and events happening. After the first few chapters it was difficult to continue to read. I like the main character, Gideon, but he was the only person I really liked. There is an overall sense of mystery throughout the book and it is completely unique from typical Amish fiction. Still this was not my favorite book and I can't recommend it. But seeing all of the positive reviews, others are enjoying it so perhaps you might too!

"I received this book from Moody Publishers for free in exchange for an honest review."

 

Pennsylvania Patchwork Book Review Litfuse Blog Tour

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Pennsylvania Patchwork by Katie Lloyd is the second book in the Legacy of Lancaster Series.

 

About the Book

 

Seattle native Holly Fisher is smitten by Lancaster County, its simplicity and her long lost relatives. In the sequel to bestselling Leaving Lancaster, Holly embraces the Amish culture, learning to slow down to see what - and who – really matters. Meeting the family that her mother had kept hidden from her, Holly comes face to face with her real life and blood legacy. She also falls for the charming Zach, a handsome Mennonite veterinarian who is everything she’s ever wanted in a husband: confident, kind, successful, and authentic. And Zach proposes marriage. Is this too soon? Is this the right choice? Mother and Amish grandmother think she’s rushing into too much of a lifestyle change. Holly is in love with Zach and that precludes everything. Until she meets an attractive Amish man. And an old suitor shows up.
Pennsylvania Patchwork is the moving, richly told story of one woman’s heart, her faith and trust, and the choices she makes. Never easy, but one choice can change your destiny.(Goodreads)

 

My Review

 

This is the first book in the series that I have read and it can easily be read by itself. The story line is a bit of a love triangle and at times it was difficult for me to follow. The characters I couldn't really relate with. The mother figures in the story were entertaining at times but the romance and setting were not my favorite. It is full of drama, a little too must for my taste. If you like romance/family drama and Amish life you will like this book. The main aspect of this book is confronting your past and moving on with the future.

 

 

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kate Lloyd is celebrating the release of book two in her Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy, Pennsylvania Patchwork, by giving away an authentic Amish-made quilt!

 
  One "grand" winner receive:

• An authentic Amish-made Quilt
• Pennsylvania Patchwork and Leaving Lancaster by Kate Lloyd

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 29th. Winner will be announced on July 1st at Kate's blog.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Ray of Light Book Review



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Ray of Light by Shelley Shepard Gray is the second book in the Days of Redemption Series.
 
About the Book

When two hearts connect on a beach in Florida, is it a brief romance . . . or the start of a lasting love?

After family secrets come to light, causing an uproar, Roman Keim is taking a much-needed vacation to Pinecraft, the Amish snowbird community in Florida. The warm weather is a welcome break from the bleak Ohio winter, as is a week off from all his family's drama. But Roman's own drama begins when he meets his next-door neighbors: Amanda Yoder, a beautiful young widow, and her adorable daughter, Regina.

In the two years since her husband died, Amanda has never looked at another man. She certainly doesn't intend to get married again. But she can't deny that there's something special between her and Roman. As his week in Pinecraft comes to a close, Amanda knows that, in spite of her attempt to remain distant, she's given Roman a piece of her heart. And her daughter seems to have fallen in love, too.

Is there hope for a second chance at love for Amanda? Or will duty call Roman home first, far from the two women who have captured his heart?(Goodreads)

My Review

I have not read the first book to this series and perhaps I should have before I read this book. I was really disappointed with the story line. I could not get into readng the story, it just seems like the other Amish books I have read. I am always hoping for something different, this book is set in Florida, which is a nice change from the typical Amish setting. The rest of the story was just nothing new to me. I know a lot of people will love it because of the author and setting, but this was just not the book for me.

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."







Bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray brings inspirational romance to life in this sweet tale of love in the Amish community, Ray of Light, the second installment of her Days of Redemption series.
Roman Keim just wants a break from the family drama at his snowy Ohio home when he heads to an Amish snowbird community in Florida. There he meets Amanda Yoder and her daughter Regina who soon are warming his heart. But will Roman return to Ohio or will he stay and help the young widow embrace a second chance at love?
The author of the series Sisters of the Heart and Seasons of Sugarcreek, Shelley Shepard Gray delivers an honest, tender love story in Ray of Light, featuring the challenges of faith, family, and romance.
Purchase a copy here.
Learn more at Shelley’s website.

The Tempted Soul Book Review

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The Tempted Soul by Adina Senft is the third book in the Amish Quilt Series.

About the Book



Carrie Miller longs for children, but after ten years of marriage, that blessing eludes her. So she fills her days with caring for her home, making artistic gifts and fancy cakes, and caring for her flock of chickens, every one of whom has a name and who under no circumstances will go in the soup pot. Carrie also finds support in the friendship she shares with her two best friends Amelia and Emma, and relishes the weekly afternoons they share working on their quilts.

Carrie and her husband Melvin love each other, and together have survived many lean years. If not for the kindness of their church community, they would have had to miss more than one meal a day. But now, Melvin has found work that finally provides a good living. Carrie hopes that having more to eat will finally allow them to start a family. Yet month after month, they remain childless. So when Carrie overhears two English women talking in the fabric store one day about medical options available to non-Amish women in her situation, she takes it as a sign from God. Melvin and the bishop see it differently, however. Is it really God's will that she pursue this, or is her longing to be a mother tempting her to stray from her Amish beliefs?(Goodreads)

 

 My Review

 

This book was a refreshing Amish read as it looked at life from a completely new perspective. Carrie is a married Amish woman but unlike many of the families around her she does not have any children. The doctor has told her that she is perfectly fine but her husband refuses to have himself checked out. The idea of doing what the English do in order to have children is considered a sin and not natural. While Carrie is considering the idea, her husband refuses and she must rely on her faith in God in a very trying situation. As the story continues God prevails and adds a twist in the story that surprised me.  

God is so good even when it doesn't seem like it at times. He has a much greater plan for a bigger picture that we know nothing about.

 

I reccomend if you are interested in a different Amish story line and to those who struggle having children.

 

 

 

 "I received this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review."

 

 

 

The Promise Box Book Review

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The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer is the second book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series.

Every year, young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive "resident" status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides!

In The Promise Box, the second book of bestselling author Tricia Goyer's Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series, Lydia Wyse, a book editor from Seattle who grew up Amish, returns to the small community of West Kootenai, Montana to give comfort to her father after her mother's death. She is drawn back to the familiar Amish ways after finding her mother's most precious possession, a Promise Box of prayers and scripture. What her publisher sees, though, is an opportunity for a sensational "tell-all" book about the Amish.

Lydia soon finds herself falling in love with Amish bachelor Gideon Hooley. She wants nothing more than to forget her past and look forward to a future as an Amish bride. Will the pain of her childhood---and her potential betrayal of her community---keep her from committing her whole heart?(Goodreads)

Tricia Goyer is a talented author, she weaves stories in creative ways and I really do enjoy her writing. This book is not my favorite. I have not read the first book in this series but I loved the setting in Montana, not many Amish stories are set in Montana. The story line just seemed like something I have read before, while Tricia is a great author, this was just like any other Amish book that I have read. If you are an Amish fiction fan, you will love this book. I like Amish fiction, but I also like unique stories. I will say that I did like Lydia grows and the character development is fun to read.

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

   

Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her lastest novel, The Promise Box (Zondervan), by hosting an Amish Baking Box giveaway and connecting with readers during her June 12th Book Chat Party!

One "promising" winner will receive:

• Apron, hot mitts, and kitchen towels
• Amish baking items (rolling pin, pie plate, etc...)
• Sherry Gore's Simply Delicious Amish Cooking
• The Memory Jar and The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 11th. Winner will be announced at the "The Promise Box" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 12th. Connect with Tricia for an evening of Amish fun - book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tricia will also share an exclusive look at the next book book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Promise Box and join Tricia on the evening of June 12th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 12th!