An Amish author who writes in secret and is a man? A social media guru who needs to essentially get off the map for a while? Ummm....sign me up! KrummAn Amish author who writes in secret and is a man? A social media guru who needs to essentially get off the map for a while? Ummm....sign me up! Krumm had my attention simply from the book blurb and I'm happy to report that continued as I devoured the story. Lyla and Rueben were wonderfully crafted characters with secrets, flaws, and lots of moments that made me smile.
Perhaps the most interesting thing to me was how Lyla and Rueben's relationship went. At first they of course had some, well different thoughts on things I'll say. But over time they started to warm up to each other, and I really enjoyed their relationship. Yes, people from two very different worlds can come together in a way that is natural, and honestly felt like they should have always been together.
Krumm also gives a wonderful faith lesson in trusting the Lord, and letting go of the past mistakes you have made. Beating yourself up over them doesn't do any good, and I think it's something we all need to be reminded of. On the Golden Cliffs is a beautifully written story and will appeal to contemporary and Amish fiction fans alike. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Friends, if you are looking for a different kind of Amish Fiction, then this one is for you. First of all, I love how Goyer allows the main character Friends, if you are looking for a different kind of Amish Fiction, then this one is for you. First of all, I love how Goyer allows the main character to question some things about the Amish faith, but stay respectful to the faith at the same time. Marianna isn't shy about her her relationship with the Lord, but it isn't in your face or preachy. It's just natural conversation and thoughts when appropriate. Wonderful faith theme.
What makes this different then other Amish books is that technically the main character isn't Amish anymore, and is marrying someone who is not Amish, and a musician nonetheless, but still has a great relationship with her family. I'm not sure if I can describe how it changed the dynamic of the story but it did in a fantastic way. Most Amish books are just too predictable for my liking anymore, and that is not the case here. Goyer really bridges the gap between the contemporary fiction world and the Amish fiction world in a beautiful way. This may even open some new readers eyes to some amazing Amish fiction books that are out there these days!
Beyond the Gray Mountain is a book filled with faith, friendship, danger (I would say more so the last third of the book), and more. You do not need to be an Amish fiction fan to enjoy this book!
Strength in the Storm is a different kind of amish book, and that's what I liked about it. Instead of just the run of the mill romance, you add in theStrength in the Storm is a different kind of amish book, and that's what I liked about it. Instead of just the run of the mill romance, you add in the layer of the reporters and movie makers. And here's what it reminded me - the amish are just people too. I know that sounds a bit elementary but it's true. I think we, as a society, look at them with a microscope. They are different and it makes us want to know everything about them, peer at them, study them and kind of insert ourselves into their lives. But we need to put ourselves into their shoes. Samuel wasn't afraid to tell the English to back off. That they wanted to be left alone. And while most amish aren't confrontational like that, I wonder how many might be thinking it.
Okay, onto the story. Blount maintained my interest during the whole read. I felt so bad for Emma, and essentially you could see how not only her sister, but she herself was suffering from a little PTSD. In her own way I think. She needed something, or some one (enter Sam's aunt!) to give her a reason to move forward in life. I like the journey Blount took Emma on. I don't want to say too many things due to spoilers, but it's a story that will touch your heart.
Overall Blount has given us a good story that shows hope, consequences of actions, love, understanding and new beginnings. I think fans of Amish fiction will really enjoy it. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
This was an interesting read to me, probably because it is unlike any amish novel I’ve ever read. Our wonderful heroine has a way with horses. Horses!This was an interesting read to me, probably because it is unlike any amish novel I’ve ever read. Our wonderful heroine has a way with horses. Horses!! She trains them, which really blew my mind. It’s not often in the Amish community that you see a working woman. I really enjoyed reading about Grace’s love for all things horses. The fact that she was out there working with them was amazing to me, and inspiring!
I have to be honest, all eyes were on Isaac while reading this. He had a story to tell, and I was perfectly content to sit back and watch him figure Grace out while I was waiting to hear it. They had some good banter, and some laughable moments which the story enjoyable to read.
There were times the plot went a little slow for my taste, however that may not be the same for everyone. But overall this was a story I enjoyed reading with lovable characters, fun, laughter, and maybe even some cute animals! I think Amish fiction fans will love this story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Hilton has a knack for writing fantastic Amish stories, and with one that's set at my favorite time of year, I know I was going to enjoy it. What I diHilton has a knack for writing fantastic Amish stories, and with one that's set at my favorite time of year, I know I was going to enjoy it. What I didn't expect was how much some parts were going to touch my hear.
First of all, Levi's love and devotion to his sister was so unexpected. Yes I know Amish people are typically like that anyways, but I feel like Levi's was a step beyond. And while part of it was probably guilt, I do think most of it was just respect and love. Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy reading romance stories, this one included. But I also enjoy seeing other kinds of love represented in a story. Friendship, family, community, etc... I'm so happy Hilton included this!
Now, let's get to Levi and Elsie - yeah they had a great love story. And wow there were some swoony scenes, which Hilton is known for. But my favorite part of their story was just their interaction with each other. Hilton held my interest from start to finish, wondering when they'd connect, how they would end up together, when would they make me laugh again, and when would I get that foot popping kiss I know Hilton is going to write. Not to worry - she delivered on all of these!!
Although set at Christmas, I do think this story could be read any time of year. Amish fans, and Hilton fans will devour it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
What a fantastic collection of stories!! Oh my goodness, I have been away from the Amish genre for a little bit, and I forgot how much I missed it. AnWhat a fantastic collection of stories!! Oh my goodness, I have been away from the Amish genre for a little bit, and I forgot how much I missed it. And these authors are the best at writing sweet stories that will hold your attention from start to finish.
The stories are easy reads, and could easily be read in one sitting, well four total. And even better is you’ll find similar themes throughout – family, God, and faith. But also, how to overcome trials. Each story had its’ own trial, whether big or small, and seeing how the characters handled it was just a joy for me. The authors did a fantastic job of showing how good things can come even from something difficult.
Amish fiction fan or not, I think these sweet holiday stories will lift your spirits, bring a smile to your face, and get you ready for the Christmas season!! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
What a sweet set of stories to get you in the mood for the Christmas Season! And adding babies to the mix, well who doesn't love a baby in a story, anWhat a sweet set of stories to get you in the mood for the Christmas Season! And adding babies to the mix, well who doesn't love a baby in a story, and two for that matter! These stories just pulled at my heartstrings! Oh my goodness. What I enjoyed most was that it wasn't just romance stories. It was about family, and working through trials and heartache, and so much more.
I can't really decide which story was my favorite. Honestly, I loved them all. These three authors did such a fantastic job of writing stories that went so well together. That can be hard to do! The ultimate message here is that family is not necessarily blood. And God allows things to happen at certain times in our lives for a reason. I do hope you'll read this and allow these stories to speak to your heart. You will be glad you did!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
This was such a unique Amish story, that included camels of all things! The thing I enjoy about Rachel Good's stories is that they are different than This was such a unique Amish story, that included camels of all things! The thing I enjoy about Rachel Good's stories is that they are different than your typical Amish story. Here we have a young Amish woman who is keeping this enormous secret, one I personally felt she shouldn't have kept. And yet in keeping it, it made the storyline that much better. Priscilla sacrificed so much by keeping this secret, and it showed a lot of her character - in a good way. I'm not sure I would have been able to do it.
Then you add Gabe to the storyline. Oh sweet Gabe. He had a secret of his own, which I did NOT see coming AT ALL. Wow, Good really got me on that one, and I loved it! Anyways, Gabe tried so hard to be strong, and in some ways he was. But at the end of the day he was shy, or at least had trouble speaking up for himself. At first I was annoying that Priscilla would kind of swoop in and take over, but as I continued the story, I found myself really enjoying their relationship - each one of them contributed their strength and they really were best when together.
It's been awhile since I've read an Amish story, and I was glad to have one in my hands again. Good managed to teach me, intrigue me, and keep me turning the pages. With camels (I still can't get over that!), special needs children, love, twists and turns, His Pretend Amish Bride was an enjoyable story. Amish fiction fans will love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
Irvin takes readers into the beautiful West Kootenai region of Montana in A Long Bridge Home. My heart ached for Christine and the entire community asIrvin takes readers into the beautiful West Kootenai region of Montana in A Long Bridge Home. My heart ached for Christine and the entire community as the wildfires spread and took their homes. Irvin’s descriptive writing had me right there with them, running throughout the house, trying to get the necessary items. At times I felt as if I could even smell the smoke, see the haze in the distance, and feel the fear of having to escape. At a time when wildfires seem to be across the world, it certainly made them more real to this New Yorker, and my empathy for those in the path of the wildfires has doubled.
But Irvin paints a picture of how God can turn something tragic, life a wildfire destroying a community, into something beautiful. Christine meets Raymond Old Fox, and their friendships is perhaps the most beautiful part of this entire story, and just what readers needs to see in today’s world. Two people, with different cultures and beliefs, are able to come together and teach each other about their ways. Each had an open mind to listen to the other, contemplate what they’d heard, and amicably speak about their differences. Neither placed judgement. There was no heated arguments, or pressure to change viewpoints. It was simply talking, teaching, and inspiring. Christine learned that while Raymond’s beliefs were different, there was some value to them. There was away she could apply portions of it to her own life while still honoring God. And isn’t that what we are supposed to do? Find ways to honor our Lord? I can’t express how deeply their friendship moved me as I was reading.
Rest assured there is much more to this beautiful story. Romance, faith, community, family, restoration, and the beauty of God’s creation. I highly recommend reading this delightful read. I hope it speaks to your heart as much as it did my own!...more
This was such a fun and unique Amish fiction book! First of all I thought it was so great that Holly worked in a pharmacy, and was allowed to take claThis was such a fun and unique Amish fiction book! First of all I thought it was so great that Holly worked in a pharmacy, and was allowed to take classes to further her education and be able to better help her Amish community. It's not too often you see this allowed, in the real or fiction world, and so the inclusion of this made it that much more enjoyable for me. Holly was a strong character - she didn't necessarily need a man, she was focused on doing what she felt God was calling her to do. Unlike most Amish women we read about.
I actually learned a lot about the pharmacy world in this book, and I think that is what intrigued me the most by reading it. That and the mystery to be solved. The Woodsmalls packed a lot of information in a short period of time (being a novella). Don't mistake that for info dumping, or being overwhelming. That was not it at all. Instead I found it to be a very informative and yet delightful read.
All in all I found this to be a quick, enjoyable read that readers who like a different kind of Amish story will enjoy. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
What a unique Amish story, unlike any I've ever read. Spredemann has captured my heart with her characters in this story - the young children especialWhat a unique Amish story, unlike any I've ever read. Spredemann has captured my heart with her characters in this story - the young children especially. She also write Amish characters differently, which I appreciate. I imagine that if a small child mistook an Amish Bishop for Santa Claus, he may not react the way Christopher did - with kindness and a chuckle. At least, I don't think. But that's what makes this book so special - Spredemann puts her own sweet spin on it.
The message that Spredemann presents in this story will absolutely touch your heart. There's something to be said about neighborly love and helping people out. Christopher and his wife certainly goes above and beyond, much like you see in many Christmas stories. But the way they take in Shannon and her siblings is so touching, and warm. Reading this was kind of like sipping warm hot chocolate while snuggling with a fuzzy blanket - it restores your hope in mankind and makes you smile.
Whether you are looking to get into the holiday spirit, or looking for a little inspiration, this is a book that you will enjoy. I encourage you to read this heartwarming story today! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Oh my goodness I think this just might be my favorite book in this series! First of all, Gracie is so shy and yet so forward with Matthew! I know it'sOh my goodness I think this just might be my favorite book in this series! First of all, Gracie is so shy and yet so forward with Matthew! I know it's in the book blurb, but it still caught me off guard. Here's the other thing about Gracie - she is such a strong person. Do I totally agree with her reasons for marrying Matthew? No. BUT there's a point in the story where I wasn't sure how she was going to continue in the relationship because of something that happens between her and Matthew. And Gracie just got up the next day and went about her business. I loved her character!
The heart of the story though, in my opinion, is the growth in Matthew. He so desperately needed to make peace with his wife's passing, and Lillard gives you little pieces of that story here and there, at just the right pace. I was flabbergasted when Matthew revealed to Gracie the truth behind his wife's death - but loved how Lillard weaved it into the story afterwards. It's something important that I think readers need to understand that Amish are not exempt from. It is certainly a topic that deserves more information in the world - and you'll find out why I feel this way if you read the story (sorry no spoilers!).
All in all, this was a fantastic read that I devoured in one day. I've been waiting for Gracie's story for awhile, and Lillard did not disappoint! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
Since I finished reading book one in this series last year, I have been anxiously awaiting to see what would happen between Sara and Michelle if they Since I finished reading book one in this series last year, I have been anxiously awaiting to see what would happen between Sara and Michelle if they were to meet. Plus, see how their futures shaped out. I really wasn't sure what would happen, and formulated many different scenarios in my mind. Let me just say the plan Ms. Brunstetter had was much better then any I imagined!
I will say this - Sara was very whiny and immature throughout a good portion of the book. And while it bothered me, I'm actually glad Brunstetter wrote it this way. I think had Sara's character been written any other way, her character growth and progression wouldn't have held the same meaning. Sara's journey was my favorite. Yes, Michelle had a lot of growth too, but Sara's was easier to connect with for me. I could see myself reacting exactly as she did throughout much of the book, and then scolded myself for thinking it! But that's what good books do - they make you think.
Forgiveness is such a difficult topic to read about, think about, and put into practice. Anytime I see that is going to be a big theme in a book, I almost cringe a little bit because I know it's going to get to me, and it did here too. Yes, it's a hard pill to swallow - but it's so worth it, as shown in several characters in this book.
Amish fiction fans will love this book. It's classic Brunstetter, easy to read and fun. The scirptures mentioned were great reminders, and ones that should be highlighted in all of our bibles. That another great thing about Brunstetter - she easily weaves the scriptures into her stories! And while it may seem like it should be easy to do in an Amish book, it really isn't. But Brunstetter makes it look that way :)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
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