The Melody of Love by Wanda E. Brunstetter and Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach

This was an enjoyable and touching book.  Amelia's son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, something I have also found myself serving as a caretaker for.  It can be very difficult depending on the person, but the book addresses it kindly and with understanding.  Amelia is a widow and doesn't plan or expect to find love again.  She and her sisters go on atrip to help with a wedding where she meets Christian.  But a long distance romance doesn't seem to be a possibility.  The story is a tender account of difficult adjustments, love, and patience.

It is a very nicely explained story that will touch your heart.

I received an ARC copy of this book from the publisher.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Reimagined Life of Jade Morrow by Vannetta Chapman

This was a very different read for me by this author.  So it was an adventure for me to read this very different genre for the author as well as for myself.  Jade is a best selling author.   At the beginnings of chapters, an except of the lives of famous persons appears and then the story changes from how their lives proceeded, to another way that Jade creates.  It is quite interesting and a fun read as well.  The story also revolves around Jade's life as well as she rewrites her own path in life.  The book makes you think a bit and that is a very interesting way to look at things!  There is more then one direction that life can go. The "what ifs" are definitely worth considering!

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Girl From Tomorrow's Town by Naomi Musch

 

This was a different type of book for me and I found that very interesting.  Starting with the Orphan Train, which I have read about before, and then the departure from the orphanage and the issues that brought that Lily had to endure.  Lily meets someone upon her leaving who has quickly befriended her and helped her as well.  Francis is a roustabout working for a traveling circus.  He is a hard working member of the circus “family” and helps in all ways that he can.

I enjoyed this book very much.  I felt the struggles that Lily has experienced by the author’s description and even though she has left the orphanage environment, things still are not always as hoped.  It is a good story and definitely one to read. 

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Chance For Kallie Mae by Ann H. Gabhart

This was a sweet story taking place in 1911,  The Bertram and Spencer families have a feud that has gone on causing their family members to not be able to interact in any way. Kallie. a Bertram and Quinn, a Spencer are in love and this is a definite bad situation for them.  Kallie has been taking care of her family since the death of her mother, putting her life on hold in many ways.   As a caretaker, she has not been able to attend school.  It is a story taking place in the Appalachians, so schooling is not as we know it today.  This being an area, were feuds and contentions are a critical part of their lives.  It is a story that makes you think of how she should deal with the love she has for Quinn and the family that she is a part of.  

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All thoughts and opnions are my own.

Silent Witness by Tracy Fredrychowski (An Amish Book Club Mystery Book 4)

I have always enjoyed a good mystery. This book as well as the  previous books of the series, were exactly that. I have read each one and enjoyed them very much.  This book starts with several fires in the Amish community and a body. I love the three ladies of the book club, how they write down each possible clue and try to compile all the evidence.  They are a fun bunch of ladies that never give up trying to resolve the problems in their community.  The characters were well developed and the storyline was well paced.  I am hoping the series continues!

I received an ARC of this book from the author.  All opinions are my own.

The Amish Rancher's Return by Amy Lillard

 I love a good second chance story.  It was a sweet story of Isaiah who was in love with Priscilla and suddenly decides to go to Montana to ranch.  Priscilla is devastated by this and takes matters into her own hands and moves on with her life.  Life continues and he return's.  Is it too late to make amends?  

It is a good read and I really enjoyed the storyline and also the secondary story line of the store being put  up for sale where Priscilla has her Amish things to sell.  I think that Amish book readers will really enjoy this book.  I highly recommend it!

I received an ARC from the author.  All thoughts and opinions were my own.

Murder on the Leon by Bruce Hammack

 This was an enjoyable mystery read including an Alaskan cruise.  There was a little romance going on that I would like to continue reading about in future books.  The mystery part of the book was a little slower moving than usual, maybe because of the cruise vacay. I loved the setting. It was a fun book, definitely clean and well worth reading.  I could see that the author is well versed in criminal justice.   I also enjoyed the painting storyline for Fen both in this book and earlier ones. I have enjoyed this series of mysteries and look forward to each new book and adventure!

I recieved an ARC from the author.  All thoughts and opnions are my own.

Mail-Order Viscountess, Lords of the Rockies Series Book 3 by Misty M. Beller

This was an excellent read.  I couldn't get enough of it!  It checked all the boxes for me!  When the older family members, brothers and their wives plan a mail-order bride unbeknownst to Thomas, he is not too happy.  But he feels he will just pay her way back to her previous home.  She arrives, along with a sister in tow and their story begins.  There is lots of adventure, and the scene in Montana seems pretty accurate with unexpected blizzard and its trials that go along with it.  I wasn't able to put the book down as there was no slow paced parts.  Always lots going on and so, yes, it was a page-turner for me.  Can't say enough.  

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

HIdden Poison: An Amateur Amish Sleuth Cozy Mystery by Tracy Fredrychowski

 

This series is great.  Both books in the series have just held my attention till the very end.  No slow or dull moments.  I loved both of these books.  The book club trio of Amish ladies are always finding clues to solve the case that has happened.  When the grouchy bishop of the Amish collapses and passes away in the cafe, a town becomes greatly concerned as to who dun it and what really happened.  It's a great read and very full of suspence. It's a book you won't be able to easily put down!  

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Winning the Bull Rider's Heart by Melinda Curtis (The Cowboy Academy Series)

This is Sophie Jean and Noel's story.  Noel left Sophie Jean and his goal was to become a member of the rodeo circuit as a bull rider. Noel finds his way back "home" to the Done Roamin' Ranch to join his foster mother's birthday planning.Upon his return he sees that things are a little different than he expected. This is the second chance story  for Sophie Jean and Noel.  But there are lots of past issues to work through.  The story has some twists and turns.  Will they work through the situation they find themselves in or not?  

This was a nice read and I enjoyed it very much.  I loved seeing Frank and Mary who are in the past books of the series and makes you feel like you are with old friends. I loved the series and how this couple fostered Noel and many others.  

I received a copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Native Patriot by Pegg Thomas

 This was a great read.  I felt I learned so much about history in this Revolutionary War period.  It comes at such a historical year for our country as well!  So a perfect book for us at this time.  The historical facts and events were so well incorporated into the romance of Mark Running Bear and Grace.  Although you could see their attraction, things were not perfect for Mark whose past life events caused him to think about the direction he should follow. Such a well written book and not a dull moment found in the entire book.  In my profession as a genealogist I remembered many people looking for their Hessian soldiers in Pennsylvania, many of whom did not return to their home.  So that was really an interesting historical read for me as well as the Oneida tribe which plays a part in this book. It was a Christian book showing faith and following God's plan for us.

It was excellent and I highly recommend this book.  I received an ARC copy from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Heart on Consignment by Mindy Steele (The Heart of the Amish)

This was a sweet romance with Salina's parents worrying about her marital status.  Having difficulty finding the right person, Salina pours her heart into helping those whose lives have been upended by a terrible storm. Seth is a newcomer in the community with a sad experience as well.Salina and Seth meet and slowly their relationship grows.  Salina's mother is very determined to find the man for her but what will be her opinion of someone not of their community?  Salina's self-esteem revolves around her height, plain hair and face. But her kindness and friendliness makes up for what she feels is lacking.

It is a nice story and was enjoyable to read. I am sure readers of Amish fiction will find the book interesting and a good read.  I received an ARC copy of this book from the publisher.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Buried Secrets: An Amatuer Amish Sleuth Cozy Mystery by Tracy Fredrychowski

I love an intriguing mystery and this book filled the bill!  The storyline kept me wondering just what would happen next.  I never knew what to expect.  Many people knew "bits and pieces"  And everyone has their opinions as to what happened and things continue to worry the townspeople. I think this book will be enjoyable and interesting reading for all. There are some exciting moments that will keep you on your toes.  Rosie, Irma and Lovina, bookclub sleuths, will leave no stones unturned!

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

 

Can't Help Falling in Love with My Hockey Player Husband By Jennifer Spredemann with Brandi Gabriel

This book touched on some "real-life" situations.  It was handled appropriately and was a very good read.  It was a story of Amish Ivy and "Englisch" Jude.  They have known each other a long time.  Ivy finds herself in a difficult situation and Jude is her good friend and she tells him of her situation.  Together they try to find their way.  They both deal with many of life's difficulties and you can tell of their feelings for one another, although they may not realize it themselves.

The book is about faith, forgiveness and the need of God's guidance. It was a very good book.  I really loved reading it and stayed up late to see how things turn out. I enjoyed it very much and readers of Amish fiction will find this a great book to read and enjoy.

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Garden Cottage

 

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!

Katie's Amish Journey Of Hope By Tracy Fredrychowski (The Amish Women of Lawrence County Book 8)

 

Katie's mother has passed away and her heart and soul are broken.  She no longer can function as she has in the past.  Her depression seems only to deepen as she draws further from family and friends.  Her husband needs her as do her little children.  As she experiences these feelings, loving friends help as best as they can.  

This was a very touching story.  As Katie and family work through the trials they are now facing, there is always a ray of light that comes from an unknown person.  I am sure many of us have had these feelings to work through or had family or friends with these experiences.  It is a book of love, faith, hope and patience as the troubles are worked through.  I recommend this sweet story to those who enjoy Amish books.  The author has done a great job of bringing the different topics in the book to good closure at the end of the book. I received an Arc copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Mail-Order Baroness by Misty M. Beller

This book was probably number 1 of my favorite books read in quite a while!  I loved the storyline, the drama and the challenges that James and Rose face to keep her safe from a very evil man.  It's such a well written book, that I read it so quickly to see what happens.  I loved this book so much that I can hardly wait for the next book in the series!  If you love adventure and historical romances, this book is definitely for you!  I highly recommend this book.

I received an ARC of this book from the author.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Jolene's June Prayer by Ashley Emma

I really, really enjoyed reading this book. It held my attention from the very start to the very end.  Jolene is heartbroken that she has no children and this is her biggest dream after two losses.  Her heart breaks seeing the joy others have with their children and when they cry and she finds herself holding and trying to comfort another's little one. As an unknown pregnant woman appears at her door, in need of help, she finds herself helping and becoming fond of her.  Till her trust is broken.  

This is a lovely story of healing, faith and forgiveness.  I recommend this book!  

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