Gathering the Threads (The Amish of Summer Grove, Bk 3) – Cindy Woodsmall

Returning to her Amish home, was a joyful event for Ariana Brenneman. And then, sitting at the family table, listening to her father dictate what was to be done, triggered an unease in the young woman.

Forced to live in the ‘Englisch’ world, when it was discovered, she was unintentionally swapped, at her birth, along with Skylar Nash, was an eye-opening situation. Relying on Quill Schlabach wasn’t an ideal, but he was her friend, despite the strained relationship, and he helped her out when she needed it.

Isaac, Ariana’s Amish father, is in disbelief that his daughter, would defy him, his authority. At least her relationship with Rudy (the man she plans to marry) is still going strong. His wife, Lovina, is worried that the two won’t see eye-to-eye. After all, Ariana now knows what it is to live in the Englisch world. Can they truly expect her to be the same?

Now that Ariana is back in the Amish world, will the fact that she wishes to keep the phone and occasionally contact Quill be condoned by the Bishop? And, how much more understanding will Rudy be about that aspect of her life?

Finding her feet, and her place, in the Brenneman family, as well as the Amish community, Skylar is on the road to recovery from drug addiction. Just as she feels that she has control back in her life, in walks Ariana. What happened to spending a whole year outside of this community? And how come her Englisch father, Nicholas, seems so much more understanding of Ariana’s woes than he ever was of hers?

Will the two ‘sisters’ find common ground? To be able to grow together in the Amish way? Whilst Ariana questions her belief in an (almost) oligarchical system, she knows her faith in God is unwavering. How can she be a part of two different worlds, when neither seem to want to understand the other?

In the last part of theSummer Grove series, the story is focused more on Ariana, rather than Skylar, but doesn’t fail to impress. Whilst it would be easy to tie up loose ends, Woodsmall, spins a thoughtful, absorbing story, that is far from predictable. I really enjoyed how she pushed Ariana's thinking, yet being respectful of the Amish culture. There were so many emotions for the characters in this final installment - frustration, anger, disbelief, love, hope,  happiness - that, as a reader, I was experiencing them along the way. As always, Woodsmall's characters have depth, personality and traits, that make them all endearing.

An excellent series and a highly recommended read for, not only, all fans of Amish and Christian fiction, but those who enjoy a really good story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review from WaterBrookMultnomah as part of their blogging program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Ties That Bind - Cindy Woodsmall

A firm believer in the Old Ways, as well as loving her family with fierce devotion, twenty year old Ariana Bennenman has two things to accomplish. One is to open a café and the other, prevent other Amish from leaving with Quill Schlabach.

Still hurt from when he and Ariana's good friend Frieda ran off together, she's taken aback to meet him five years later - with the intent of helping someone leave - someone from her own family. Little does Ariana know that when Quill helps a family leave, he and his brothers ensure the person leaving does so with absolute certainty.

But unbeknown to the young girl, her world is about to turn upside down.

Quill confirms the suspicions of Ariana's 'mamm', Lovina, suspicions that she's had for a long time about what happened after Ariana (and her twin brother) was born and a possible mix-up. The hardworking mother was never sure if to pursue the matter until she studies a leaflet detailing a show to be put on by local (Englisch) students. Suddenly that day comes rushing to forefront of her family life. Now Quill finds himself in an unenviable position of helping. Will he and Ariana ever be able to re-establish their friendship?

All he's ever wanted and still wants, is to protect Ariana. He knows her devotion to God and her inner strength will carry her through the inevitable unbalancing of her world but how strong is she really? Quill knows he must do everything he can to safeguard her - even help her get her café - all without  ever expressing his true feelings.

The first in a series, the Amish of Summer Grove promises to be an outstanding set of stories. Woodsmall yet again has written a book filled with such likable, strong characters each with a story to tell that combine to make an intricate and absorbing plot.

As with all of the author's novels, they are easy to read and completely engrossing from the first page to the last. Her style and language pulls you into the Amish existence easily and with this particular novel focusing on the conflict met with the Englisch, it certainly does so sympathetically and thoughtfully.

Ariana's story is so inviting and so heartbreaking. I was actually disappointed when it came to the end! I can't wait to read what happens next and am looking forward to book two. A very highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Water Press blogging program. The opinions expressed here are my own and I am not expected to give a positive critique.

Wishing on Willows - Katie Ganshert

Robin Price has a lot on her plate; an energetic three year old, a cafe that's struggling to make ends meet, yet both are reminders of a much loved husband, Micah, who died nearly four years ago.

Having Willow Tree Cafe allows Robin to be thankful that her business is a strong part of the community especially that of the One Life ministry to whom she gladly provides refreshments, free of charge.

Then one day, handsome developer Ian McKay turns up on the doorstep of her beloved town Peaks talking of a development of condominiums - to be built where the cafe and two other shops reside. Is the town going to let this happen? The Mayor, a loyal customer of the Willow Tree, is a fan of the plans. Would people let a vital ministry fade away? Shatter her dreams that she shared with Micah? With both Robin and Ian determined to win the ensued battle, a town becomes divided. But there's more to this change. Both have a past that they need to let go of, let go before they lose out on the opportunity to have a future together. One that they both don't see rushing towards them.

Will they be able to take this second change that God has created for them? Or will them remain alone and wonder when the pain of their old lives will recede?

Consumed by grief that many feel is stopping her live again, Robin is a beautiful yet stubborn woman. Faultlessly devoted to her son, the real question is - how long should she mourn for her husband? Beautifully written, Ganshert has created a story that is heartbreaking yet filled with so much hope. All the characters are robust and scripted perfectly. Amanda, Robin's sister-in-law, takes some of the limelight which breaks up the intensity of the burgeoning love story between Ian and Robin as well as the condo development.

Hooked from the first few pages, this is an easy to read book. Whilst there are characters from the authors previous book, Wildflowers From Winter, it's still very much a stand alone novel. Characterization is well thought out as is its dialogue. A true testament of a good writer is evoking emotions from the reader and for me a lot was annoyance with Amanda's 'meddling'. Even if she meant well, it still grated on my nerves somewhat. That aside, the romance is there bubbling nicely away and what I really like about Ganshert is that she isn't afraid to question God's intentions. She does this in an honest, every day life way and gives answers that makes sense. Overall, another great book - a highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Blogging for Books program, part of WaterBrookMultnomah publishing. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive review.

Echoes (The Glenbrooke Series - Book 3) - Robin Jones Gunn

Despite things happening to her - a perm gone badly, ordering scallops when she's allergic to them - Lauren Phillips didn't expect her fiance, Jeff, to break off their engagement. Throwing her thoughts into turmoil over his decision to leave her to start a new life in another city, Lauren starts to really question her life. 

When he hears the news, younger brother Brad jumps into his car and heads down to Nashville in the hopes of cheering her up. With him he brings a computer which he sets up and introduces Lauren to a new way of creating an online social life. Not long after the pretty twenty-five year old hooks up with a fellow God-Lover (GL in the online world) called KC. 

After inadvertently sending KC an email meant for her brother, Lauren soon finds herself sharing more of her personal life with the enigmatic man. With the intermittent correspondence, her shattered heart is slowly healing. Despite the faith-full advice from her friend Mindy, Lauren has done a good job of keeping her feelings to herself and is seemingly happy to close the door on the break-up.

A year of keeping in touch with KC brings the opportunity to meet. Will she have enough courage to meet the man who understands her, shares her ideals and faith? And even more so, a man who accepts her just as she is so much more than Jeff ever did. 

With a hint of 'You've Got Mail/Shop Around the Corner', Gunn's tale of finding faith in love is immediately captivating. Lauren is a young, spirited and spiritual young woman who is very much lost and is searching for some sort of peace from her heartbreak but also to rediscover her path in life. KC, through his letters, is seen as kind, generous and very down to earth. Together, they would make a dynamic couple. Yet, their letters are all that unites them - for now. 

All the characters met are well defined with likable traits. The author's simple descriptions allows the thoughts of Lauren to shine through adding a deep warmth to the story. With a healthy dose of romance, the real theme is saying to let God into your life wholly, without reservation and allow His love to fill and complete you - and you can't go far wrong. 

As my first introduction to the Glenbrooke Series, I was completely hooked by this installment. With both funny and poignant moments to memorable lines - 'How could she help but fall in love with a man who could quote Robert Browning, Isaiah, and the Beatles with such eloquence?' this story is heartwarming and so very easy to read, it won't fail to bring about a smile at the end. It carries you along in a wave of love and I highly recommend it to both fans of romance and christian fiction.

Find out more on the Glenbrooke series at Robin Gunn's site or waterbrookmultnomah.com

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books program part of WaterBrookMultnomah publishing.  The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive review. 

Christmas in Apple Ridge (Three in One Collection) - Cindy Woodsmall

Book 1: The Sound of Sleigh Bells
Headstrong with great business acumen but a heavy heart, Beth Hertzler runs the dry good store with her aunt. Still single, the community wonder when she will stop wearing black. Her fiance died nearly a year ago and for many it's about time she moves on.

Whilst Beth is lost in her somber thoughts, Lizzy (her aunt) takes things into her own matter when Beth is awakened by a wood carving. The craftsman behind the captivating scene is Jonah. A kind man who carries his own wounds. Through a series of letters Beth and Jonah open themselves up not knowing who they're actually talking to. Can Lizzy's well meaning matchmaking see two wounded people find each other, giving Beth a second chance at love?

Book 2: The Christmas Singing
When Gideon suddenly ends his engagement to Mattie, she leaves her family behind heartbroken and pursues her ambition to become a cake decorator. Three years on and and she's involved with Sol - a man that she has some affection for and knows won't hurt her. But a devastating fire causes her to return home. There she is faced with further anguish when she sees Gideon. Will she find out why he left her so dramatically all those years ago? Will Gideon find the strength to reveal his true reason for breaking up with Mattie? With so many questions swirling around their lives like a snowstorm, can they reconcile and enjoy Christmas again?

Book 3: The Dawn of Christmas
Finding her fiance in the arms of her cousin, Sadie calls off the wedding the night before. Distraught that no-one believes what she saw, but with the support of her Daed, she lives Brim behind. Four years later with mission trips behind her, Sadie's family insist she return home, settle down and marry. But how can she? Leading an independent life has been transforming, she doesn't have time for love.

A confirmed bachelor, Levi lives with his brother and nephew and after his brothers heartbreak, doesn't trust women. So when he meets Sadie and they concoct a plan to stop all the badgering of finding a partner crops up, they both jump at the chance to be left alone. Will the barriers of prejudice and resentment that they've built tumble down as their friendship solidifies?

Each story has been carefully crafted evoking the magic of Christmas entwined with finding true love. Woodsmall's characters are real, vivacious and amiable. From Beth's strong will to Sadie's fear of being hurt,  their stories reveal the vulnerability of human nature. How easily it is to misunderstand, to build up mistrust and stop others from healing the wounds created. Whilst each story is a stand alone novel, read together, the lives of these three couples intertwine creating a warming continuity and underlining the strength that comes from being part of an Amish community.

Another excellent set of stories from Cindy Woodsmall. Her seemingly effortless story telling of an Amish community where its occupants come together to face adversity head on. There are moments of laughter, deep love and compassion as well tearful and heartwarming ones. The authors skill at letting the characters drive the story along comes shining through and linking these stories to the magical time of Christmas lends the tales an enchanting quality. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrookMultnomah Publishing to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Finding Our Way Home - Charlene Ann Baumbich

Sasha Davis, principal ballerina at a Boston-based ballet company, suffers an injury that causes her career to end. She returns home, with a heavy heart and healing body, to her childhood home in Minnesota. Her injuries are limiting and living in her deceased mother's home, seems to compound the healing process.

Realising that she cannot do this alone, she enlists the help of Evelyn Burt. Evelyn has so much energy and despite Sasha's curt attitude towards the lively 19 year old, it doesn't stop Evelyn from seeing the world filled with opportunities just waiting to be grabbed. Slowly, the women form a friendship and "discover the astounding power of even the smallest act done in the name of love".

This story is simply lovely and heartwarming. It tells of friendship, patience and ultimately love. That a broken body can be healed and even if you were following one path, veering off it can sometimes bring its own rewards. Baumbich's characters are diverse when compared to each other; Sasha - a diminutive, regal dancer and Evelyn - a large-boned tomboy. Yet, the unfolding respect and friendship that blossoms between them is admirable. That a 37year old can learn how to live life, find enjoyment in it from a 19 year old shows that friendship doesn't see age.

As the story progresses, the once seemingly perfect life of Evelyn is thrown in to turmoil. Then, it's Sasha turn to help Evelyn to heal, to understand that heartache and heartbreak are part of the course of life, but it shouldn't stop you from living. Through this tough time, Sasha reunites with her husband who she tried to shun from her life since the accident, but realised how much she missed and needed him and realise that he felt the same way.

Essentially this is an uplifting tale of finding grace and seizing second chances. Baumbich style of writing is effortless - well written with rich characters that I easily sympathized with, liked and understood. A recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterbrookMultnomah as part of the Blogging for Books program. The opinions expressed here are my own.