Garden Cottage (Mackinac Cottages Series) By Carrie Fancett Pagels

The author has a love for this place, Mackinac Island, Michigan, and it shows in her writings as she writes about the beautiful surroundings and the events that take place in her books.  The book gave me a relaxed and peaceful feeling. It is a story about Paula and Gennaro and a second chance at love. The story is about family, romance and is a very sweet story.  It is great to see a romance of an "older" couple.  And that life and love can continue. The book shows a trust in God and I love how that is woven into the story. There is humor and all kinds of themes to read about.  There is also some intrigue that I always enjoy!

It was a good book and I recommend it.  I received an ARC copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

When They Met Again (Letters From Lancaster County Book 2) by Leslie Gould

I enjoyed the first book of the series, so was very happy to receive book 2.  It is a touching story of Adam and Joanna.  Joanna has had an unfortunate time with Jacob and now she is less trusting to have a relationship.  As Joanna and Adam work together and as their friendship grows, it was enjoyable to read about them and grow to appreciate them both.  I loved the letter-writers.  And there was a line that I especially enjoyed reading and seeing in the story, a quote from Mammi Lu, "It's better to give others a piece of your heart than a piece of your mind. That's what Jesus would do."

A good story, and you won't want to miss it!  I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.
 

Murder Unshelved by Vannetta Chapman (A Stitches, Perks and Pages Cozy Mystery)

This was a fun read.  It started out quickly with a murder discovered by the two sisters who have just purchased a building to start their two individual businesses.  Not a great way to start. The sisters proceeded with their plans, but there are more difficulties yet to come.  It's a great mystery with a little romance, as well.  The story is well paced and has some Amish people in the "cast" as well.  The sisters work together to resolve their difficult situation and to start their new lives in the little town of Fox Hollow.  I have always loved a good mystery so this just fit the bill for me.

I received an Arc copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Beginner's Quilt by Wanda E, Brunstetter

I have read lots of this author's books and I really enjoyed this one. It was a really sweet story of an Amish woman, who did not appear to have the same role expected talents.  Cooking and sewing were not her "thing".  Her mother had tried to teach her, but without success.  As Emma's mom realized she hadn't succeeded to teach her the things all Amish wives are expected to do, Emma was sent to her grandparents to learn those skills, hopefully.  

It was a very nicely paced story with engaging characters and themes of faith and forgiveness and love.  I enjoyed it very much, including Ivan's unfortunate experience in Rumspringa which might sadly turn his life around.  It was very well written and believable.  I enjoy a good Christian book which shows that we should all be responsible for our own actions.  I recommend this book!

Their Secret Courtship by Emma Miller

 

Two neighbors meet, become friends and maybe more?  They have lots of common interests and as their friendship deepens, they come to the realization that Bay's Amish mother who wants her married to a good Amish man, will not agree to a relationship with someone outside of their family faith.  When the unexpected happens decisions need to be made.  Will this make or break their friendship?

This was a really good read and quite an emotional twist towards the end.  I have to say, I loved this book and am so happy that I finally read this book that had been in my to-read book drawer since 2022!  I guess I was busy!  Since it was a book that I really enjoyed, I recommend it to Amish book lovers.  It was a good one.

Secret in an Amish Garden by Lenora Worth

This was a book published in 2022.  I had purchased it and finally had time to read it.  It was a nice story of two people that came together as Jeb came to town, not telling others of his past and his connection to the village and the people.  It was a story of redemption, hope and love.  There were some slower sections and the end kind of surprised me at that point and had more action and all came together at that time.  I enjoyed the read. 

Their Make-Believe Match by Jackie Stef

 Sadie is an enthusiastic single  Amish women.  She is different than other Amish women of her age and although she wants to marry, because of her personality, her parents feel she won't find anyone suitable for her.  She meets Lancaster newcomer, Isaac and they become friends.  He and his mother are there staying with his mother's sister in an effort to help her heal over a tragic death that has totally changed his mother. Isaac is also trying to handle this difficult loss and as he and Sadie become friends, they decide to have a courtship of convenience.

It is a sweet story and I enjoyed reading this book.  It is a book I purchased several years ago and that has sat in my drawer for all that time.  I am happy I read it!  Very nice book!