The View from Coral Cove

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CLIPSTON, AMY

THE VIEW FROM CORAL COVE

When a jilted romance novelist escapes to a small beach town, the last thing she expected to find was the start of an even better love story.

In the wake of a broken engagement and the death of her last surviving family member, romance novelist Maya Reynolds moves to the haven of Coral Cove, North Carolina, to take over her great-aunt's toy store. Some of her grief is immediately ease by imaginative eight-year-old Ashlyn Tanner, who talks her into adopting a kitten and inspires Maya to create a princess tea-party room in the store.

Ashlyn's dad, local veterinarian Brody Tanner, is quickly smitten by the newest resident of his hometown. As a single parent, he sacrifices a lot in order to give Ashlyn the world, so a romantic entanglement Maya is not an entanglement he's looking for.

As the three develop a deepening bond in the seaside town where Maya experienced some of her happiest childhood memories, clouds cast a shadow over Maya's hopes for the future: an impossible deadline looms over her next novel, a long-held secret by her late mother about Maya's absent father comes to light, and Brody's resolve to avoid romance seems unbreakable. 

But together, they might just discover that sometimes happy endings happen outside the pages of Maya's novels too.

My Review:

What an enchanting story! The next best thing to a bookstore is a toy shop  in my opinion so the setting is perfect! And the meet-cute is all kinds of adorable, orchestrated by a precocious child and a naughty kitten. :-) 

And here's where I get to squeal over the veterinarian hero! Squeeep!!! An animal loving man who adores his daughter sets my heart racing. BUT, Brody does come with some baggage which results in a reluctance to become romantically involved with anyone...except he can't seem to resist the lure of the new owner of the toy shop. Especially after Maya enlists the aide of his daughter on an inspired store project.

The seaside town makes a great backdrop to this love story with plenty of wonderful secondary characters to cheer our couple on. And young Ashlyn is a scene stealer all the way through. The epitome of a feel good holiday beach read...with a healthy does of angst. :-)

Please note: This is from Thomas Nelson's 'clean' line (as opposed to Christian Fiction) so no faith content.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy. Winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The View from Coral Cove, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday September 17 2022 . Offer open to 

Naomi's Gift

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO RE-READ DAY!

CLIPSTON, AMY

NAOMI'S GIFT

Naomi King has been unlucky in love. Longing for marriage and children, she pursued love full tilt, disregarding traditional courtship. Now, at the ripe old age of twenty-four, Naomi has been burned twice, certain she'll spend her life helping with her mother's quilt business and caring for her eight siblings.

As Christmas approaches -- at time of family, faith, and hope for many others -- Naomi is resigned to what she believes is God's will for her, and she throws herself into tending the quilt booth at the farmers market. Even so, she longs for love.

Enter Caleb Schmucker, a young widower with an eight-year-old daughter. Visiting family for the holidays, Caleb is dealing with his own guilt, uncertainties, and longings.  As he and Naomi find themselves together at social gatherings and holiday events, both treasure their budding, relationship.

Caleb finds the friendship awakening feelings he's suppressed since his wife's death. Naomi begins to experience emotions deeper than any she's ever felt. Slowly, cautiously, Naomi finds the courage to open her heart to this thoughtful, faith-filled man.

With her belief in love already shaken, Naomi must once again reconsider her hopes and dreams and reexamine her faith.

My Review:

published in 2016

Sniffle...reading this review from 11 years ago was bittersweet because my old man sheltie was still alive and clamouring for walks. :-( Luckily, the story distracted me. :-)

---

I was transfixed by this novella. Read it in one sitting as a matter of fact. Poor Simba missed another walk on account of a good book. I have to stop doing that or both our waistlines will suffer! Clipston weaves a tight plot line with surprising depth and characterization that makes this a rewarding read. Her pacing is impeccable, nothing drags, rather each scene builds seamlessly to the climax. I think it's more difficult to write a really good short novel but Clipston has certainly mastered the art. I felt as satisfied as if I'd just finished an epic Amish trilogy. Speaking of which -- readers who have read The Kauffmann Bakery Series will be excited to catch glimpses of old friends. I haven't read the series (but certainly will now!) but didn't feel anything lacked in Naomi's Gift because of that. A lovely Christmas read that captures the essence of the season.

 GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a gently read hardcover copy. (I discovered I have the same title in a two book bind up so this one is up for grabs.) 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Naomi's Gift, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday July 30 2022 . Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

An Amish Singing

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RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

CLIPSTON, AMY

AN AMISH SINGING

Romance is bound to strike a chord when the young people of Bird-in-Hand join together to bring their community a gift of song.

Hymn of Praise -- Sharon Lambert and Jay Smoker have been friends for a long time, but lately Jay has seen Sharon in a new light. They begin spending time together, and Sharon invites Jay to her family's home to serve dinner and sing traditional hymns for their English guests. When Jay decides that this tramples upon his doctrinal believes, can there's two dear friends compromise and find love? Or will Jay's strict views keep them apart?

Amazing Grace -- Dave Ash is broken with guilt after a recent tragedy. When Alice Blank, an acquaintance from school and youth group, invites him to join an informal singing group that performs for community members in need, Dave doubts he will enjoy himself -- let alone find peace. Will Alice's friendship help Dave learn how to forgive himself the way God already has?

Great is Thy Faithfulness -- Darlene Bender's mother has been battling cancer, and Darlene can't understand why God would allow someone so wonderful go through such a terrible time. She finds strength in her singing group and friends, and when Andrew Detweiler senses that Darlene needs a confidant, he approaches and befriends her. As love blossoms between them, Darlene might soon realize that God was with her all along.

O Holy Night -- Elaine Lantz and her parents have just moved tot own from New Wilmington. After leaving behind some painful events and a group of deceitful friends, Elaine worries she'll never be able to trust again. But the young people of Bird-in-Hand don't give up, and Calvin King takes it upon himself to make Elaine feel welcome. Perhaps friendship and love await Elaine in her new hometown.

My Review:

published in 2020

I have no idea how I missed the release of this book two years ago! It's unusual in that it's a collection of novellas written by the same author and I love the continuity that brought to the read. And what a great theme to centre stories around -- hymn singing!

Four sweet faith-inspiring love stories focused around a group of friends who share their joy of traditional songs with folks in need. And I love the way the author matched a hymn with the inspirational content of each story! 

A wonderfully unique approach to a novella collection. 

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice. 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of An Amish Singing leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the Draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday June 11 2022. Offer open to International Readers.

The Coffee Corner

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY

THE COFFEE CORNER

In this third instalment of Amy Clipston's Amish Marketplace series, an acquaintance grows into love over a few well-timed cups of coffee.

Algonside her cousins who have booths of their own, Bethany Gingrich runs a busy and successful coffee and donut stand at the Amish market. Since she has cafe-style tables and chairs, her regular customers enjoy purchasing a morning treat sot they can sit and talk to their friends.

Micah Book and his grandfather, Enos, visit Bethany every Saturday morning to purchase coffee and donuts before going to work at Enos's custom outdoor furniture shop. Bethany enjoys talking to Micah and Enos, and she's always thought Micah was handsome -- but she doesn't think her crush will ever result in anything more.

When Micah and his grandfather don't come to see her one Saturday morning, Bethany begins to worry. And when she learns that tragedy has struck, she wonders how to help Micah in his time of need. Turns out he needs a friend now more than ever, and Bethany may be just the kind of friend that God has provided for him.

My Review:

What's starts out seeming to be a straight forward, if somewhat angsty, romance turns into something so much more in this riveting addition to  Amy Clipston's Amish Marketplace series. I've been reading the books out of order and have had no issues with continuity. 

Basically, the series centres around four cousins who all have unique booths in the marketplace. Each book highlights the romance of one of the cousins but we also get some great 'girl time' scenes as well and I really love that aspect of the series.

Bethany is feeling the odd girl out as her cousins begin to pair off and she can't help feeling left behind. She's had a secret crush on a young man in her district but Micah doesn't seem to know she exists other than the pleasant interactions they share during his habitual visit to her coffee booth every Saturday morning. My heart was all a flutter as I settled in to enjoy what was sure to be a sweet romance...which it was, in between the emotional sucker punches Clipston delivered with fine storytelling precision.

Wowza! But this book went deep -- especially into Micah's story, both past and present. There's tons I want to say, but won't because that would venture into spoiler-y territory. Let's just say this is a story of friendship and forgiveness and the joy that comes from being part of a community that stands with you during the toughest of times.

I listened to the audible edition narrated by Lauren Berst who did a great job of fleshing out these characters with her voice. I enjoyed every last second.

Goal Update: #2 Catch up on series I'm behind in

 GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Coffee Corner, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the Draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday April 30 2022. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck 

An Amish Barn Raising

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY

IRVIN, KELLY

FULLER, KATHLEEN

An Amish Barn Raising

Three sweet stories entered around Amish traditions and the possibility of romance.

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston -- Though they've known each other a long time, Kathryn and Anthony have decided to becoming more than friends -- but they are devastated when Kathryn's father won't allow them to date. He wants his daughter to marry a man with a more respectable job than building gazebos for Englishers. But when Kathryn's father's dairy barn burns down during a thunderstorm, Anthony is the one to arrange a barn raising. Will Kathryn's father realize he has misjudged Anthony?

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin -- A year after the wildfires, life has returned to normal for the West Kootenai Amish community. Evan Eicher, son of Deacon Tobias Either, has done his best to move on too. Helping his neighbours and friends rebuild has helped soothe a heart broken when Delilah Mast -- the woman he loves but never had the courage to approach -- moved with her family back to Kansas. At his father's urging, he courts Anna Burkholder, a sweet woman who adores him. But when Delilah moves back to teach school, Evan must wrestle with feelings he's tried so hard to put in the past. And an accident at a barn raising will force Anna, Delilah, and Evan to face their truth about their hearts.

Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller -- Devon Bontrager only returned to his old hometown to make good on a past misdeed. He hadn't counted on reconnecting with Nettie Miller, especially since she strung along his younger twin brothers some years ago. Nettie knows she made some mistakes in the past, but she's determined to be an asset to her community from now on. But just as she's making headway, her family's barn burns to the ground. Why does it seem like God is punishing her family when she's finally starting to turn her life around? Can she convince Devon that she has changed? Can Devon trust the woman who toyed with his brothers' hearts?

My Review:

Love the way these three authors have put their own unique spin on a common theme and there's nothing as iconic to the Amish as a barn raising! Each novella delivers depth in both character and plot, providing the kind of sigh-worthy happily-ever-after this reader loves. Times three!

And -- bonus (to this reader, at least, who might just have worn her eyeballs out from a life time of reading) -- this collection comes in the larger paperback format (traditional Christian Fiction paperback vs mass market pocket size!) so it was a real pleasure to read!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook -- reader's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of An Amish Barn Raising, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday January 15 2022. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

The Jam and Jelly Nook

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY

THE JAM AND JELLY NOOK

Since her husband died, Leanna Wengerd has done her best -- raising her son, Chester, and running her Jam and Jelly Nook at the Amish market. When Chester gets into trouble for trespassing, he winds up at the police station with his friend Maggie. Leanna comes to the police station to fetch Chester and meets Emory, Maggie's other. Emory is also a widower, raising Maggie alone. Over time, Emory and Leanna become closer friends. The two have feelings for each other -- but when they try to date, their children resist. Will God pave a way for them to build a family together, or will hurdles block the path to a second chance at happiness?

My Review:

This has been a great series and this Amish Marketplace novel caps it off nicely. There's lots of glimpses into the other heroes and heroines' happily-ever-afters as Leanna and Emory strive to find their own. Their meet-cute is kinda funny -- can't say I've read an Amish novel where the couple meet in the police staton! And that first encounter really shows what an upstanding man, Emory is. Have to say I was intrigued before Leanna! :-)

This is a gentle love story that grows out of a friendship bonded by mutual loss. It's been years for both Leanna and Emory and yet they've never felt the need to look beyond their single solitude...until that fateful midnight meeting! The addition of two less than enthusiastic and polar-opposite teens makes the possibility of romance that much more tentative. And, of course, there's plenty of opinionated family members around to add a little chaos and misdirection to the mix. :-) 

A lovely, faith-infused look at loss and grief and the hope of second chances.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Jam and Jelly Nook, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday December 18 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

An Amish Christmas Bakeshop

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RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

CLIPSTON, AMY

WISEMAN, BETH

FULLER, KATHLEEN

IRVIN, KELLY

AN AMISH CHRSTMAS BAKERY

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four delicious stories perfect for celebrating love, joy, and the holiday season.

Cookies and Cheer by Amy Clipston -- As Christmas draws near, Alyssa Byler decides to build a sugar cookie nativity scene for the window display of the bakery where she works. She just needs the right cookie cutters -- and handsome blacksmith Kyle Smoker can help. The striking display brings more tourists to the bakery than she can handle, and when shoppers request handmade cookie cutters of their own, Kyle finds himself overwhelmed by the demand. Together, they must put aside the holiday rush and spend time celebrating the season that has brought them together.

Loaves of Love by Beth Wiseman -- Katie Swartzentruber has been left in charge of her family's bakery, but she soon finds herself overwhelmed with orders during the holiday season. She is tempted to move her Old Order family into the modern world of using a propane oven to help with the world. Meanwhile, her childhood friend Henry Hershberger is trying to find the courage to tell Katie he's harboured a secret crush on her for years. As the demands of the bakery grown more intense, both Katie and Henry have to decide what really matters...and find the courage within themselves to go after it.

Melting Hearts by Kathleen Fuller -- Mattie Shetler is an expert baker, so when her aunt Carolyn begs for help during the busy Christmas rush, Mattie eagerly packs her bags and heads to Birch Creek. What she doesn't know is that her uncle has also asked for help with the bakery's new expansion, and he's asked none other than Peter Kaufman, Mattie's sworn enemy. With Christmas just around the corner, Mattie and Peter must open their hearts to the greatest gifts of the season; forgiveness and maybe even love.

Cakes and Kisses by Kelly Irvin -- Martha Ropp works hard at her family's bakery, making cakes and pies in preparation not only for Christmas but the many community weddings, including her sister's. Before Martha's mother passed away, she hired Ambrose Hershberger to make deliveries during their busy season. Martha remembers Ambrose as a gentle giant from her school days but soon discovers that still waters run deep. The more they work together, the more they want to spend time together outside of the bakery, but both Martha and Ambrose are too timid to make the first move. That's when the town matchmakers step in.

My Review:

published in 2019

There's something about Amish novella collections at Christmas that make me all warm and cozy inside. I actually start craving them in September and by the time the snow flies I'm eager to curl up with the kind of classic, timeless, heartwarming stories that you'll find in this collection. I mean, you can't go wrong with this line-up of all-star Amish Fiction authors, right? And do they ever deliver! 

Love the common thread of the bakery setting (is there anything more Christmas-y than a bakeshop?) And I'm amazed at how each author uses her unique voice to create four distinctive stories. There's humour, angst,  and the simple pleasure of enjoying the true meaning of Christmas...and romance...through the eyes of these delightful characters.

A stellar collection.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback copy.

*please note -- I attempted to take a nasty price sticker off the  front cover of this book and, while I succeeded, it lifted off some of the border garland in the upper right hand corner of the cover. It's not ripped or hole-y or anything though -- phew!!!. 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of An Amish Christmas Bakeshop, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday December 4 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

Amish Midwives : Three Stories

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY

GRAY, SHELLEY SHEPARD

LONG, KELLY

AMISH MIDWIVES : THREE STORIES

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come three sweet stories about new life, hope, and romance.

Bundles of Blessings by Amy Clipston

Lost in grief after the death of her husband, Kristina Byler gave up remarrying and found comfort and purpose in becoming a midwife. She is surprised when Aidan Smoker -- her ex-boyfriend and the man she was sure she'd one day marry -- moves back to the community after living in Ohio for the past eight years. They're both certain there's too much pain in their shared past for them to have a future, but they keep finding themselves drawn together. As Kristina helps other women bring children into the world, she starts to wonder if a family of her own might be possible after all.

A Midwife for Susie by Shelley Shepard Gray

Haunted by secret guilt after a tragic accident, Joanna Zimmerman is sure she's left midwifery behind her. She keeps to herself, certain this is for the best. Her childhood friend Dwight Eicher knows that Joanna hasn't been herself lately, but every time he's tried to talk to her about what's wrong, she's avoided his questions. When his sister, Susie, becomes pregnant, Joanna must decide if she can find the courage to return to the job she once felt so called to. Meanwhile, both Dwight and Joanna face romantic feelings that have the potential to change their friendship forever.

Christmas Cradles by Kelly Long

(also published in An Amish Christmas)

When Anna Stolis takes over for her aunt, the local midwife, Christmas night heats up with multiple deliveries, three strangers' quilts, and unexpected help from the handsome and brooding Asa Mast.

My Review:

There's something for every reader who loves Amish romances in this collection. From reunion romance to insta-love to friends-to-more. I happen to like all of the above so I was a happy reader three times over. :-) And I loved the midwifery thread that's common to them all.

These well-known authors deliver what they do best -- riveting stories with heart and hope and the occasional toe-curl. Each story is a quick, satisfying read and -- hooray! -- this collection comes in trade paperback format (as opposed to the teensy-weensy mass market paperback) so the print's big enough to read! 

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Amish Midwives, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 14 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Courtship Basket

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

CLIPSTON, AMY

THE COURTSHIP BASKET

Years ago, a picnic basket brought two hearts together. For Rachel and Mike, history may be about to repeat itself.

Rachel Fisher is devastated when the young man she's loved for years leaves her to date her best friend. Her heart is broken, and she has all but given up on love. Determined to keep her mind off her pain, she starts teaching at an Amish school for children with learning disabilities.

Since his father became ill, Mike Lantz has been overwhlemed with the responsibility of providing for his family and caring for his six-year-old brother, John. When John joins Rachel's class and she learns that his mother is deceased and his father sick, she desperately wants to help the family, even with something as simple as a meal.

With her parents' old picnic basket, Rachel begins sending food to the Lantz family. As the weeks go by, John's grades start to improve, and the attraction grows between Rachel and Mike. They can't deny that their friendship is growing toward something more, but both of them are hesitant to risk a more serious relationship.

The last thing Rachel wants is another heartbreak, and Mike is worried about providing for his loved ones. Will the two be able to reconcile their past hurts with new hope for the future?

My Review:

published in 2016

I've been kinda binge-reading Amy Clipston novels in an attempt to catch up and keep current and I'm amazed at how she can bring fresh, new perspectives to every single story. Essentially, the plots are similar: two people struggling with past hurts seek to find happiness together. But each plot delivers so much character depth and unique challenges that each book stands out in it's own way and I'd be hard pressed to identify a favourite.

Absolutely love the courting basket theme in this emotionally complicated romance. The title perfectly ties in with the story which makes my bibliophile heart giddy with delight. :-) I fell in love with these flawed characters -- both stubborn and short-tempered at times. Ah, all that clashing of wills and unyielding resolve! Makes a romance spark and sizzle.

Another exceptional romance from one of my favourite Amish fiction authors. (I may not be able to pick a fave story, but I can absolutely say that Amy Clipston is now high, high, high, on my auto-buy/read list!)

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Courtship Basket, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winners announced on Saturday February 13  2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck! 

A Welcome at Our Door

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

CLIPSTON, AMY

A WELCOME AT OUR DOOR

After a devastating loss, Cindy Riehl is still searching for peace. Will she find it in the community she calls home -- or will love send her down a new path?

Over the last few years, Cindy Riehl -- the youngest of the Riehl children -- has watched her siblings find love and happiness in Lancaster County. But as her family has settled down and grown, Cindy has continued to grieve her mother, whose death left an enormous hole in her heart. Since that haunting day, Cindy has sturggled to find peace and wonders if the community is the place for her -- and if her faith in God will ever feel the same as it once did.

When a handsome and kind Englisher named Drew crosses Cindy's path one surprising day, the two of them become fast and easy friends. Drew dreams of starting a family after some losses of his own, and before long, he and Cindy discover that their feelings for each other are romantic. As they spend more time together -- often in secret -- Cindy is drawn further and further away from the Amish community and the family she loves. In time, she faced with a difficult choice that threatens to upend her world.

Will Cindy find contentment and love, and will she ever find restored comfort in God and her beloved community? In this final installment of the Amish Homestead series, we return to the charming town of Bird-in Hand for a story of healing, family, and God's perfect provision.

My Review:

published in 2019

I'm having fun doing a major catch up on Amy Clipston novels while trying to keep current with her multiple new releases this year so I don't get behind again. Oh, the bibliophile anxiety when must-reads books overwhelm my TBR pile! But the plus side is I have lots of happy reading hours ahead for me!

I love the way this author brings depth and heart to her characters and their struggles. I was so invested in Cindy's story that I had a lump in my throat for most of the read. She's been adrift in her grief over the death of her mother for much too long and she feels like no one in her family or close knit community understands. 

And then Englischer Drew moves in next door and her world is turned upside down all over again. Because Drew gets her and their undeniable connection feels like a lifeline. It isn't long before friendship heats up into something much deeper and that presents a whole new set of challenges.

Honestly, heart in throat the whole read through. Talk about doomed romance! I could not figure out how the author was going to work out a happily ever after. Thankfully she does, but there are so many twists and turns and gut-wrenching decisions to be made along the way! This story consumed me and left me emotionally shell-shocked by the end. Which makes me a very happy reader. :-)

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice

If you would like a chance to win a copy of A Welcome at Our Door, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winners announced on Saturday February 6 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Farm Stand

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY

THE FARM STAND

Salina Petersheim runs her own produce booth at the Amish market and has been dating Josiah for almost a year now. Her religious parents approve of community member Josiah, but to Salina, he feels more like a friend than a boyfriend. Then Will Zimmerman, a Mennonite chef who runs a local restaurant, comes along. He wants Salina to supply the produce for his restaurant, and as they forge a business relationship, they find themselves falling in love -- even as they feel stuck in their current relationships. Will they follow their hearts or bow to the pressure of family? Or will God provide a surprising new road for them?

An Amish Marketplace Novel

My Review:

Mercy, but I'm having a hard time keeping up with all of Amy Clipston's releases so I'm leaping into her Amish Marketplace series mid-stride. 

The Farm Stand is book two and it reads wunderbaar well as a standalone, once you get the cousins straight. :-) The series centers around four cousins who all have stalls in an Amish market and there's a great sisterly connection that shines through in this book (and I'm guessing all the others.) Love the teasing and heartfelt talks...even the tough love ones. :-) These four cousins make a great support network and this time round it's Salina who needs it most.

I'm usually not fond of romances where one (or both) of the protagonists are already in a relationship but I am completely enamored with Salina and Will's story despite the fact that they are both dating other people. Clipston does a great job of portraying their circumstances in a compassionate light and I found myself totally fascinated as their drama unfolds! 

And the angst is plentiful -- but it's also accompanied with enough lighthearted moments to strike a delicious balance. As well as the tummy-flipping excitement that comes with discovering true love! The perfect escape read for these long, COVID riddled wintry days!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Farm Stand, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winners announced on Saturday January 30 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

An Amish Christmas Wedding

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY

FULLER, KATHLEEN

IRVIN, KELLY

CHAPMAN, VANNETTA

AN AMISH CHRISTMAS WEDDING

From bestselling authors of Amish fiction comes four delightful stories perfect for celebrating love, joy, and the everyday miracles Christmas brings.

Evergreen Love by Amy Clipston -- Ryan Lapp had promised to marry Lorene Bontrager as soon as he was able to build them a house, but the day never came. Ryan moved away. Five years later, Lorene has settled in to her old mail role, and she's shocked when her younger sister announces her quick engagement to Ryan's younger brother. As they rush to plan the wedding, Lorene is constantly around the family she almost joined. Worse, she's forced to face Ryan himself, who has returned to town. As both Ryand and Lorene examine their own feelings, they must decided if they can find grace with each other -- and the young people they once were -- this Christmas season. There just might still be love in their future.

Wreathed in Joy by Kathleen Fuller -- Mary Wengerd and Jakob Mullet have been best friends since childhood. Pressured by friends and family, they decided to date -- with disastrous results. When they break up, their friendship is ruined. A year later, Mary is baking her Englisch friend's wedding and groom cakes for a Christmas Eve wedding. Mary loves the Christmas season, and had always dreamed of marrying during that time. Now she wonders if she'll ever marry. After she and Jakob form a tenuous new friendship, Mary breaks her arm. As he steps in to help her with the cakes, Mary is inexplicably and suddenly falling for him. But they've already dated, and that ended so horribly. Could it be better this time?

Holiday of Hope by Kelly Irvin -- Henry Lufkin is one of four bachelors who lived in the West Kootenai, Montana cabins that were destroyed by wildfires. He's the only one of them who hasn't since married, but he likes his solitude. Then an old friend asks him to care for his son, and Henry has to share his small cabin and his life with bewildered and rebellious ten-year-old Tommy. When the child encounters trouble at school, Henry reaches out to Tommy's teacher. Leesa Yoder never expected to find herself single and teaching sixteen young scholars, and she certainly didn't anticipate an inexperienced bachelor telling her how to do her job. Amid the flying sparks, can Henry and Leesa see that there might be hope and love in this unexpected situation?

A Christmas Prayer by Vannetta Chapman -- Widower Micah Miller runs the Amish Tour Company, offering Englischers a glimpse of a simpler life as well as tea at Rachel King's. Rachel has never married and has recently lost her parents. When Micah comes across an abandoned and injured dog, he gives it to Rachel for company. As Rachel is charmed by the dog and shocked by news of the existence of family she never expected, her heart and mind bend toward the possibilities of change in her life -- even toward the possibility of love.

My Review:

What a fantastic collection! How could it not be, given the authors who contributed to it. All four novellas are expertly developed so that they deliver all the heart-stirring, angst-anxious romance you'd find in a full-length novel. 

Amy Clipston's Evergreen Love bears all the mixed emotions that come with a reunion romance. I could feel both Lorene and Ryan's confusion and hurt. A classic case of how not talking things out resulted in a five year estrangement and now they are thrown together amidst the flurry of wedding preparations for their younger siblings. Loved the way they warily mended fences and then finally had that long overdue discussion. Clipston draws out the mystery behind their rift with page-turning perfection. A sigh-worthy holiday romance.

In Holiday of Hope by Kelly Irvin, a troubled orphan becomes the unlikely catalyst that draws widower and now confirmed bachelor Henry to disappointed-in-love teacher Leesa. There's a beautiful message about trusting God even in the hard times that resonates with all three characters. A second chance love story with lots of heart and few toe-curls!

I do so love a friends-to-lovers romance but in Kathleen Fuller's Wreath of Joy, things go terribly awry. Besties since childhood, Mary and Jakob allowed themselves to be swayed by friends and family into pursing something more. Six months of courting proved they were better friends than romantic partners. A year later and they still haven't managed to recapture that besties mojo...or shake the feeling that something more might still be a possibility. Their confusion and longing is palpable and creates the kind of angsty/tender ambiance that's perfect for a holiday romance.

Vannetta Chapman delivers a sweet and heartwarming later-in-life romance between Micah and Rachel in A Christmas Prayer. I'm still grinning over the surprise star of their story -- an injured stray dog that teaches Rachel something about love and acceptance and living fully in each moment. There's even a bit of a family history mystery to add to the festive holiday spirit. A timeless love story filled with the magic of Christmas.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice

If you would like a chance to win a copy An Amish Christmas Wedding, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday November 7 2020 . Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

An Amish Summer

GIVEAWAY

GRAY, SHELLEY SHEPARD
CLIPSTON, AMY
FULLER, KATHLEEN
IRVIN, KELLY
AN AMISH SUMMER

Four Amish stories about summer romance.

A Reunion in Pinecraft by Shelley Shepard Gray

When sisters Sharon and Sherrilyn Kramer attend a wedding in Shipshewana, one of them returns with a new penpal while the other returns to her job at the bakery. After sending weekly letters back and forth, Sherry and Graham Holland arrange a reunion in Pinecraft. Upon Graham's arrival, however, he realizes he's been writing to the wrong sister. Can he sort through the confusion in time to turn the worst vacation ever into something truly wonderful?

Summer Storms by Amy Clipston

Ariana is counting down the days until her wedding to Jesse. They had been friends longer than Ariana could remember, and that friendship had turned into love over the past couple of years. But when Ariana's brother, Tobias, who happens to be Jesse's best friend, gets them both in trouble, Ariana's puts an end to her engagement to Jesse. Some summer storms pass quickly, but Ariana is afraid the damage from this one may be too much to repair.

Lakeside Love by Kathleen Fuller

Esther has always lived in the shadow of her beautiful younger sister Sarah. Even the boy she has known -- and loved -- her entire life, Judah, only has eyes for Sarah. But when a handsome young Englischer cmes to live with the family for a summer, everything begins to change.

One Sweet Kiss by Kelly Irvin

Everybody in Little Bee county, Texas, can see the obvious: Jacob King and Martha Byler are meant to be together. Everyone, that is, except Martha. Ever since her mother died when Martha was a young girl, she has taken over the role of caregiver to her large family. And restless Jacob, who has had a little too much fun on his rumspringa, only seems to add to the list of people to manage. But one summer changes everything, and these two may just find a way to meet in the middle and share one sweet kiss.

My Review:

Love me a summertime read chock-full of summer romance. Add in the fact that they are all Amish novellas by some of the best authors in the biz and my bibliophile euphoria is complete. These compact stories deliver a satisfying punch of angst along with the sweet bliss of romance. There's a great mix in this collection -- humour, drama, emotional highs and lows and, of course, the sublime hope of not one but four happily-ever-afters! Absolutely perfect for some lazy, hazy summer days of reading.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of An Amish Summer, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday June 29 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

An Amish Cradle

GIVEAWAY

WISEMAN, BETH
CLIPSTON, AMY
FULLER, KATHLEEN
CHAPMAN, VANNETTA
AN AMISH CRADLE

Tiny fingers, tiny toes, and lives that will never be the same. Journey with four families as their lives are about to change forever.

In His Father's Arms by Beth Wiseman -- Ruth Anne has been dreaming about motherhood her entire life. Now she is doubly excited that she and her best friend are due with their children the same week. But when Ruth Anne's baby is born with Down syndrome, she and her husband struggle to understand God's plan.

A Son for Always by Amy Clipston -- Carolyn and Joshua are thrilled to be pregnant with their first child together. Carolyn was just a teenager when she had her son, Benjamin, and she still feels solely responsible to secure his future. As Joshua watches Carolyn struggle to accept his support, he knows he has to find some way to convince her that she -- and Ben -- will always be taken care of.

A Heart Full of Love by Kathleen Fuller -- Ellie's mother hasn't stopped meddling in her personal life since Ellie lost her sight -- and she's taken it up a notch now that Ellie's pregnant. When Ellie gives birth to twins, her mother insists on moving in to care for them. But when her mother's behavior becomes unbearable, Ellie is forced to take a stand...and finally find out why Mamm can't let go.

An Unexpected Blessing by Vannetta Chapman -- At 42, Etta thought she was finished having children, but she's pregnant again. After a frightening labor, Etta finally gives birth, but her constant worry over her estranged grown son, David, haunts her still. As a new mother again, Etta must hold tightly to the promise that God will watch over her children -- and that one day David will return.

My Review:

Published in 2015
As always, I am grateful to my public library for keeping me in retro reads!

What a captivating collection by some favourite Amish fiction authors! Amazing how you can give four authors a theme like new motherhood and they come up with four amazingly distinct stories! I'm not sure I can pick a favourite but I really liked the way this collection is bookended by nineteen-year-old first-time mom, Ruth Anne's challenging story about coping with the additional stress of giving birth to a Down syndrome baby and 42 year-old Etta's surprise addition to her nearly grown family. And, of course, the two novellas sandwiched in between are just as good. A heartwarming collection that celebrates the unexpected challenges and abundant joy families bring to our lives.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of An Amish Cradle, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . so it's easy to spot your entry. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 1 2018. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

An Amish Spring

GIVEAWAY

CLIPSTON, AMY
WISEMAN, BETH
CHAPMAN, VANNETTA
AN AMISH SPRING

A collection of three novellas by three amazing authors. Includes:

A Son for Always by Amy Clipston
(also published in An Amish Cradle)

Carolyn and Joshua are thrilled to be expecting their first child together. Carolyn was a teenager when she had her son, Benjamin, and she feels solely responsible to secure his future. As Joshua watches Carolyn struggle to accept his support, he knows he must find some way to convince her that she -- and Ben -- will always be taken care of.

A Love For Irma Rose by Beth Wiseman
(also published in An Amish Year)

The year is 1957, and young Irma Rose has a choice to make. Date the man who is "right" for her? Or give Jonas a chance, the wild and reckless suitor who refuses to take no for an answer? Irma Rose steps onto the path she believes God has planned for her, but when she loses her footing, she is forced to rethink her choice.

Where Healing Blooms by Vannetta Chapman
(also published in An Amish Garden)

Widow Emma Hochstetter finds her quiet life interrupted when she discovers a run away teenager in her barn, and then the bishop asks her to provide a haven for a local woman and her two children. Then, her mother-in-law, Mary Ann, reveals one of her garden's hidden secrets, something very unexpected.

My Review:

Three powerhouse Amish Fiction authors share their talent in this captivating collection of springtime romance. From young love to to mature romance, these stories embrace the hope of spring in diverse ways.

Amy Clipston's Carolyn struggles to be truly free from the shame of her past so she can embrace a future with her husband and the child they are expecting. Fans of the Hearts of the Lancaster Grand Hotel series will recognize Carolyn as the heroine of book two. I was thrilled to get a glimpse into her future with Joshua. She's still as infuriatingly stubborn! A Son for Always is a great addition to that memorable love story.

Readers of Beth Wiseman's Daughters of the Promise series will be thrilled at this glimpse into grandparents Jonas and Irma Rose's rocky courtship 53 years ago in A Love for Irma Rose. Sweet and funny...and poignant if you've read these books.

Vannetta Chapman has really embraced the concept of new beginnings in Where Healing Blooms. Love the sense of community in this novella and how events unfold to bring something new into Emma's life after a turbulent season. Uplifting and inspiring...I think this novella is my favourite of the three.

Cautionary warning for fellow readers -- Please note that these novellas have appeared in other collections as well so you might want to check before buying. See note under individual novellas for the title of the other book that novella appears in.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of An Amish Spring, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday June 3 2018. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!