Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer

 Beyond the Gray Mountains
Book Summary

Marianna Sommer always dreamed of a simple Amish wedding, but there’s nothing simple about marrying rock star Ben Stone. Marianna struggles with trying to embrace new things while also longing for the traditions of her past. Yet wedding planning becomes the least of Marianna’s worries when the man she loves discusses putting their wedding on hold. Will Ben’s past regrets and worries for Marianna push them apart?

When Marianna’s father, Abe, insists on taking Ben to the mountains to “hear from God,” Ben has no grand illusions that an outfitting trip will provide any answers. As trouble finds them high on the continental divide, Ben must turn to God for survival. It’ll take a miracle for Ben, Abe, and Abe’s brother, Ike, to make it down alive.
The media is alerted when a runaway horse with blood on the saddle shows up near the trailhead, and Marianna’s worst fears come true. Will she lose her uncle, her father, or Ben? Suddenly wedding worries pale to her more significant concerns—having three men she loves come home alive.

As Marianna spends time with Ben’s music manager, she discovers a part of Ben she didn’t know before. Will Marianna be brave enough to step out of her comfort zone to help the man she loves? Or will she allow her fears to cause her to miss out on a future more wonderful than she’d ever dreamed of?
About the Author

Tricia Goyer writes out of her passion for God and her love for family and others. The author of more than 70 books, she writes both historical fiction and nonfiction related to family and parenting.

This USA Today best-selling author has won a two Carol Awards and a Retailer’s Best Award. She was also an ECPA Gold-Medallion Nominee and a Christy Award Nominee and won Writer of the Year from the Mt. Hermon Christian Writers Conference.

Tricia’s contemporary and historical novels feature strong women overcoming great challenges. She is a beloved author of Amish fiction, having written the Big Sky and Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series.

Whether for fiction or nonfiction, Tricia’s writing style is vivid and heartwarming, allowing readers to take home more than engaging stories, but also messages that inspire faith and hope. Her goal is to write stories that matter.

Connect with Tricia by visiting triciagoyer.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

My Thoughts

Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer is the first A Big Sky Amish Novel.  The story takes us to West Kootenai, Montana.  Marianna Sommer is engaged to Englischer and rock star, Ben Stone.  It is a big change for Marianna who was raised Amish.  As people begin asking about the plans for the wedding, both Marianna and Ben realize the changes in store for them.  Doubt and fear begin to plague both of them.  Marianna’s father, Abe feels that God is compelling him to take Ben on a journey into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area.  Abe’s brother, Ike will be their guide.  It will give Ben an opportunity to think and pray.  Unfortunately, the three men have an encounter with a mama bear and her two cubs that leaves two of them injured and with no way to call for help.  Will Ben make it back to Marianna?

Beyond the Gray Mountains is the first book in this new series, but, in the beginning, it felt like I had missed a book that introduced the characters.  I did a little research and discovered that it is a continuation of the Big Sky series.  As I got further into the story, I got more of the character’s backstory.  I enjoyed the author’s vivid descriptions of the mountains and the Bob Marshall Wilderness area.  We get to see that you need to be prepared when you go into the wilderness.  It may be beautiful, but it is dangerous.   It is going to be difficult for Marianna and Ben to merge their worlds.  It will take compromise, communication, and faith.  Ike and Annie are adorable.  It is obvious that they care for each other.  One of them needs to make the first move.  I like how faith was incorporated into the story.  Marianne has been reading the Bible and going to church with Annie.  I liked how the Sommer family was reading the Bible.  They were learning more about God and his ways.  I would have liked less repetition.  Certain details are repeated throughout the story.   Beyond the Gray Mountains is a touching tale with magnificent mountains, bouncy bear cubs, wedding worries, an alarming accident, a phantastic tour, and a rare romance.

Excerpt

Saturday, June 24, Kalispell, Montana

“How hard can it be to plan one wedding?” Marianna Sommer mumbled to herself as she strode down Main Street in Kalispell toward the dress shop—the Englisch dress shop. The warm spring breeze blew softly, ruffling strands of light-brown hair that, for most of her life, had been neatly secured under her kapp.

But no longer.

On one side of Marianna paced her friend Annie Johnson, wearing her typical jeans, flannel shirt, and cowboy boots. In her mid-forties, Annie was the owner of the Kootenai Kraft and Grocery. Along with providing a location where one could buy anything from bulk flour and garden seeds to fencing and fishing supplies, Annie was also known to provide a listening ear and a boost of moral support. And this was why she’d offered to take Marianna and her mother dress shopping today.

Marianna had never attended an Englisch wedding, much less planned one. Yet now that she was marrying Ben Stone—the handsome musician with his dark hair, bright blue eyes, and easy smile—many changes would be taking place.

Starting with choosing a wedding dress.

Mem padded on the other side of Marianna in a typical Amish dress, apron, and kapp. She walked with her head lowered and shoulders slumped. She crossed her arms over her chest and uncrossed them as if she didn’t know what to do with herself. It was partly because Mem didn’t have baby Joy on her hip. Yet Marianna also knew this wasn’t how Mem had planned her life. First, losing her oldest two daughters years ago in a buggy accident, and now, having Marianna marry an Englischer. Every Amish mother dreamed of her daughters growing up and following in her footsteps. For Mem, this wouldn’t be so.

Lord, help me to get through this with peace…marrying the man I love yet also honoring my family and Amish friends. Was that even possible?

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Beyond the Gray Mountains and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Beyond the Gray Mountains JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 27, 2023

and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 6, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks

of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only.

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Beyond the Gray Mountains is available from Amazon*, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, and IndieBound.  The next two books in the Big Sky Amish series are On Golden Cliffs (March 21) and Under the Blue Skies (August 8).  You can find Tricia Goyer's Big Sky series here (Marianna's journey before Big Sky Amish series).  Thank you for stopping by today.  Tomorrow I will be featuring Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter.  It is the debut of The Friendship Letters series.  I hope that you have a joyful day.  Take care and Happy Reading!


Kris

The Avid Reader 

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Thursday, February 23, 2023

In Farm's Way by Amanda Flower

 In Farm's Way
Book Summary

When the biggest catch at the annual Ice Fishing Derby is the body of brewmaster Wallace, Shiloh must reel in the killer before her farm goes belly-up. 

Shiloh Bellamy still expects the last few Winter months to be busy with repairs, spring planning, and networking with local businesses. She might even be able to broker a new partnership with Fields Brewery and its organic brewer's association. Well, she could if the owner, Wallace, wasn't found murdered at the county Ice Fishing Derby.

Once again, Shiloh gets tangled up in the investigation when the police ignore an entire crop of suspects to blame one of her friends. She'll have to dig deep to find the truth, reel in a killer, and convince her city-slicker pug to wear his winter boots. But with Bellamy Farm still struggling, can Shiloh spare the time to look into the town's fishy characters? Or will her dream farm be the next thing floating belly up?

USA Today bestselling Amanda Flower returns to the Farm to Table cozy mystery series with another exciting sleuthing adventure!

My Thoughts

In Farm’s Way by Amanda Flower is a cute cozy mystery.  We return to Cherry Glen, Michigan where the town is getting ready for the Lake Skegemog Ice Fishing Derby.  Shiloh Bellamy’s father, Sully is participating.  Sully will be fishing with Quinn Killian, a friend of Shiloh’s, and his twelve-year-old daughter, Hazel.  After dropping off Sully, Shiloh and Huckleberry, her cute pug in his orange winter coat and boots, are heading off the ice when they stumble upon someone under the ice.   Wallace Fields, a local brewery owner, has served his last brew.  Shiloh gets a distraught call from her bestie, Kristy.  Unfortunately, Kristy’s husband, Kent is in hot water.  Kristy wants Shiloh to investigate and get her husband off the hook.  Shiloh dons her deerstalker cap and begins asking questions.  Shiloh will have her work cut out for her if she is to reel in the worm who turned Wallace into fish food.  

In Farm’s Way is the third book in the Farm to Table Mysteries.  While it can be read as a standalone, I think it is best to read the series in order.  It will allow you to get to know the characters and the town.  I like Amanda Flower’s writing style.  It is lighthearted and friendly.  The characters are relatable and quirky.  Shiloh Bellamy is a former television producer who is working to turn Bellamy Farm organic.  She takes her cute pug, Huckleberry with her everywhere.  Huckleberry is not a fan of his new winter boots.  I had to laugh at the descriptions of Huckleberry shaking his various limbs trying to rid himself of the boots.  I like the balance between the lighthearted moments and those that are more somber or reflective.  An example is when Shiloh sees her father with Hazel and wishes he had been like that with her when she was a child.  The mystery kept Shiloh on her toes.  As she asks questions, Shiloh’s suspect list grows longer.  She needs to be discreet because law enforcement has warned her (multiple times) to keep her nose out of the case (like that is going to happen).  The reveal was suspenseful and entertaining.  We get to learn about cherry beer (how it is created) and organic farming.     The author weaved all the elements together to provide a delightful tale.  In Farm's Way had me laughing often.  I am eager to read the next Farm to Table Mystery to learn how Shiloh fares on her first date with an unexpected fellow.  There is a recipe for suet (winter food for the birds) at the end of the book.   In Farm’s Way is delightful tale with ice fishing fun, a pooch’s uncomfortable boots, a cherry craft beer competition, a bumped off brewer, and a sleuthing Shiloh.

In Farm's Way will be out on February 24 and it can be preordered from Amazon*.  The other novels in the Farm to Table Mysteries can be found here.  You can find Amanda Flower's other entertaining stories here.  Amanda Flower has Blueberry Blunder publishing on May 23.  It is the eighth An Amish Candy Shop Mystery.  Thank you for joining me today.  I will return on February 28 with Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer.  It is the first A Big Sky Amish Novel.  I hope you have an entertaining weekend.  My weekend is all booked!  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader 

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

It's One of Us by J.T. Ellison

 

It's One of Us

Book Summary

From the New York Times bestselling author comes this twisting, emotionally layered thriller about a marriage torn apart when the police arrive at an infertile couple’s door and reveal the husband’s son is the prime suspect in a murder. The perfect blend of exhilarating suspense and issue-driven book club fiction.

Everybody lies. Even the ones you think you know best of all . . .

Olivia Bender designs exquisite home interiors that satisfy the most demanding clients. But her own deepest desire can’t be fulfilled by marble counters or the perfect rug. She desperately wants to be a mother. Fertility treatments and IVF keep failing. And just when she feels she’s at her lowest point, the police deliver shocking news to Olivia and her husband, Park.

DNA results show that the prime suspect in a murder investigation is Park’s son. Olivia is relieved, knowing this is a mistake. Despite their desire, the Benders don’t have any children. Then comes the confession. Many years ago, Park donated sperm to a clinic. He has no idea how many times it was sold—or how many children he has sired.

As the murder investigation goes deeper, more terrible truths come to light. With every revelation, Olivia must face the unthinkable. The man she married has fathered a killer. But can she hold that against him when she keeps such dark secrets of her own?

This twisting, emotionally layered thriller explores the lies we tell to keep a marriage together--or break each other apart . . .

About the Author

J.T. Ellison is the NYT and USA Today bestselling author of more than 20 novels, and the EMMY-award winning co-host of A WORD ON WORDS, Nashville's premier literary show. With millions of books in print, her work has won critical acclaim, prestigious awards, and has been published in 26 countries. Ellison lives in Nashville with her husband and twin kittens.

Author Links

Author website: https://www.jtellison.com/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/jtellison14 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrillerchick

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrillerchick

Excerpt

Park whistles as he whisks eggs in a bright red bowl. Park’s breakfasts are legendary. Savory omelets, buckwheat blueberry pancakes, veggie frittatas, yogurts and homemade granola—you name it, he makes it. Olivia handles dinner. If she cooks three nights out of seven, she considers that a success. They eat like kings in the morning and paupers at night, and they love it.

She pauses at the door, watching him bustle around. He is already dressed for work, jeans and a button-down, black lace-up brogues. His “office” is in the backyard, in a shed Olivia converted for his use. A former—reformed—English professor on a semipermanent sabbatical, Park has launched a second career ghostwriting psychological thrillers. He claims to love the anonymity of it, that he can work so close to home, and the money is good. Enough. Not obscene, but enough. They’ve been able to afford four rounds of IUI and two in vitros so far. And as he says, writing is the perfect career for a man who wants to be a stay-at-home dad. There’s no reason for him to go back to teaching. Not now.

A pang in her heart, echoed by a sharp cramp in her stomach. They are throwing everything away. She is throwing everything away. This round of IVF, she only produced a few retrievable eggs, and this was their last embryo.

My God, she’s gotten clinical. She’s gotten cold. Babies. Not embryos. There are no more frozen babies. Which means she’ll have to do it all again, the weeks-long scientific process of creating a child: the suppression drugs, the early morning blood tests, the shots, the trigger, the surgery, the implantation. The rage and fear and pain. Again.

The money. It costs so, so much.

She has frozen at the edge of the kitchen, thoughts roiling, and Park senses her there, turns with a wide smile. The whisk clicks against the bowl in time with her heartbeat.

“How are my darlings feeling this morning? Mama and bebe hungry?”

She is saved from blurting out the truth—mama no more, bebe is dead—by the ringing of the doorbell.

Park frowns. “Who is here so early? Watch the eggs, will you?”

Even chickens can do what she cannot.

It’s infuriating. House cats escape into the woods and sixty days later purge themselves of tiny blind beings. Insects, birds, rats, rabbits, deer, reproduce without thought or hindrance.

Nearly four million women a year—a year!—manage to give birth.

But not her.

She’s not depressed, really, she’s not. She’s come to terms with this. It happens. Today will be a bad day, tomorrow will be better. They will try again. It will all be okay.

Mechanically, Olivia moves to the stove, accepts the wooden spatula. Park disappears toward the foyer, shoulders broad and waist nearly as trim as the day she met him. She will never get over his handsomeness, his winning personality. Everyone loves Park. How could you not? He is perfect. He is everything Olivia is not.

The television is blaring a breaking news alert, and she turns her attention to it, grateful for something, anything, to focus on beside the intransigent nature of her womb and the fear her husband will abandon her. The anchor is new, from Mississippi, with a voice soft as honey. Tupelo? No, Oxford, Olivia remembers; Park took her to a quaint bookstore there on the square one summer, long ago.

“Sad news this morning, as it has been confirmed the body found in Davidson County earlier this week belongs to young mother Beverly Cooke. Cooke has been missing for three months, after she was last seen going for a hike at Radnor Lake. Her car was found in the parking lot, with her purse and phone inside. Metro Nashville Police spokesperson Vanda Priory tells Channel Four Metro is working with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and Forensic Medical to determine her cause of death. The Cooke family released a statement a few minutes ago. ‘Thank you to everyone who has helped bring Beverly home. We will have more information on her burial soon. We ask for privacy during this difficult time.’ Metro now turns their attention to identifying a suspect. In this morning’s briefing, Homicide Detective William Osley stated that Metro has a lead and will be pursuing it vigorously. Next up, time to break into the cedar closet, it’s finally sweater weather!”

Olivia sighs in regret. That poor woman. Like everyone in Nashville, Olivia has followed the case religiously. To have a young mother—the kind of woman she’s so desperate to mold herself into— disappear into thin air from a safe, regularly traveled, popular spot, one Olivia herself hikes on occasion, has been terrifying. She knows Beverly Cooke, too, albeit peripherally. They were in a book club together a few years ago. Beverly was fun. Loud. Drank white wine in the kitchen of the house and gossiped about the neighbors. Never read the book.

Are you ready to read It's One of Us?  It's One of Us is available from Amazon*, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, IndieBound, and Books-a-Million.  You can find J.T. Ellison's other novels here.  Thank you for stopping by today.  Tomorrow I am featuring In Farm's Way by Amanda Flower.  It is the third book in the Farm to Table Mysteries.  I hope you enjoy the rest of your day.  Take care and Happy Reading!


Kris

The Avid Reader 

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

 Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge
Book Summary

With two spring weddings to celebrate, friends and family are reunited at the Amish community of Promise Lodge, where nothing—and no one—can derail an unexpected new love when it’s part of a glorious plan . . .
 
In the year since he lost his wife in a tragic accident, Lester Lehman has found healing and purpose—helping construct Dale Kraybill’s new bulk store, enjoying the Kuhn sisters’ hearty meals, and settling into a tiny, built-for-one lakeside house. Falling in love again is surely not on Lester’s mind. Yet despite his firm “no,” two available ladies have set their kapps on the handsome widower—in a boisterous rivalry that weaves mayhem among the wedding festivities . . .
 
A welcome escape comes from a fresh-faced newcomer. Marlene Fisher disarms Lester with her witty quips on his romantic predicament, while her sparkling eyes inspire surprising thoughts of a shared future. But the heartbreak that brought Marlene to Promise Lodge runs deep, and the pretty maidel believes she’s not meant to marry. In a season of vows to love and honor, scripture holds the key to building their happiness together: love is kind, and above all . . . patient.

My Thoughts

Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard is a charming Amish tale.  I was happy to return to Promise Lodge.  It is a friendly, welcoming community that is comprised of Amish and Mennonite.  Many of the Amish who reside at Promise Lodge escaped the bullying bishop from the Coldstream district.  The newest residents are no exception.  Marlene Fisher and her twin brother, Mose have lost both of their parents.  They are eager for a fresh start at Promise Lodge.  The siblings hope to avoid Bishop Obadiah while they clear out the family home.   Marlene does not plan on marrying, but God may have a different plan for her life.  Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge is the latest Promise Lodge novel.  While it can be read on its own, I recommend reading the series in order.  It will allow a reader to get to know the characters and the community.  I have enjoyed seeing the community grow and prosper.  I was hoping the author would write Lester Lehman’s story after reading New Beginnings at Promise Lodge.   I thought the story was well-written with steady pacing.  I like the realistic and relatable characters.  Marlene Fisher is a great addition.  She is a kind, thoughtful woman who is always willing to lend a helping hand.  She is also spunky. Marlene’s twin brother, Mose is a gentle giant.  An incident from his childhood has caused Mose to avoid crowds and people whom he does not know.  

I laughed often while reading this story thanks to Agnes and Elverta.  Both women have come to Promise Lodge determined to win Lester Lehman.  Their bickering did get on my nerves a little, but it was overshadowed by their entertaining antics.  Faith was nicely woven into the story.  I like how Easter and its meaning was incorporated into the story.  It is a good time to take stock of your life and forgive those who have caused you harm.  Faith, hope, and forgiveness are the key messages in the story.  The author does touch on a difficult subject that some people will find uncomfortable.  I thought the topic was handled beautifully.  I like how the romance progressed between Lester and Marlene.  I like that Marlene and Lester were able to have candid conversations.  The delectable desserts mentioned will make your mouth water.  There are recipes for some of the tasty treats at the end.  I hope there will be many more stories in the Promise Lodge seriesFamily Gatherings at Promise Lodge is an inspiring and witty tale with a kindhearted newcomer, wrangling women, a shy sibling, convivial nuptials, a bullying bishop, and a caring community.  


Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge is available from Amazon*.  You can find the other novels in the Promise Lodge series here (they can be read for free if you are a Kindle Unlimited member).  You can find Charlotte Hubbard's other novels here.  If you follow Charlotte Hubbard on Amazon on Amazon, you will receive an email when she has a new book release.  Thank you for stopping by today.  Here are a few of the other books released today:  A Half-Baked Murder by Emily George, Murder Served Neat by Michelle Hillen Klump, Primer and Punishment by Diane Kelly, Falling for the Amish Bad Boy by Emma Miller, It's One of Us by J.T. Ellison, and No Small Murder by Lena Gregory.  Tomorrow I am featuring It's One of Us by J.T. Ellison.  I hope that you have a magical day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader 

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Rachael's Decision by Molly Jebber

Rachael's Decision

About the Book

Book: Rachael’s Decision

Author: Molly Jebber

Genre: Amish Romance

Release date: January 24, 2023

In 1915 Ohio, anyone entering the Amish Charm Bakery is greeted by the sweet warmth and delicious fragrance of cinnamon and vanilla wafting from freshly baked cookies and pies. And newcomers to this Amish community will find friendship on the menu, too—and perhaps for a lucky few, even lasting love . . .

Rachael Schlabach’s first chance for a husband ended in a tragic accident that left her with a limp. Though happy to work in the beloved Amish Charm Bakery, she hasn’t abandoned her romantic dreams, but she has focused on a widower with two adorable kinner she would love to raise as her own. Then handsome, single Caleb Yutzy arrives on the scene.

Caleb is eager to court pretty, warm-hearted Rachael, and tells her so. But their frank conversations reveal a truth that dashes her hopes—Caleb very much wants kinner, the one thing Rachael can’t give him. Even when Caleb assures her it’s no matter, she can’t bring herself to be so selfish. Yet love is beyond all planning, and with faith Rachael and Caleb may discover the lifetime of love they were meant to share . . .

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Molly Jebber is a best-selling and award-winning author of Amish Historical Romance. Molly’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly Best Ten lists, USA Today’s HEA, featured in live video on Naples News, many media outlets across the U.S. You’ll find her books on most stores the first three months of their release across the U.S, UK, Canada, and more. She’s been interviewed on television, and she’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, other women’s professional organizations, and she offers presentations on writing, agent or no agent, publishing, and marketing.

She also speaks about the Amish lifestyles and traditions. She says the most rewarding part about writing stories is meeting wonderful readers who become friends through social media and at her speaking events. Please visit her website: http://www.mollyjebber.com for a full list of her books (and options of stores to buy them), speaking events and recipes. Her book, Liza’s Second Chance, is being made into a movie for Sony/Pureflix.

She loves God, her family, and friends and Florida sunshine. She says yes to swimming, the beach, golf, and time with her family and friends, and no to coconut, onions, and skydiving!

More from Molly

Rachael in Rachael’s Decision has a limp. You’ll be surprised why when you read the story!

Rachael’s Decision is the sixth book in my Amish Charm Bakery Series. Each book can be read as a standalone. But if you read them in order, you’ll recognize how their lives intertwine. You’ll remember the sheriff and Dr. Harrison, and why they matter, and you’ll fall in love with Charm, Ohio.

Liza’s Second Chance

Ellie’s Redemption

Hannah’s Courage

Maryann’s Hope

Magdelena’s Choice

Rachael’s Decision

I loved writing this series in a bakery setting, except I gained weight just reading about the desserts and found myself craving cakes and cookies. Rachael has an interesting past, and she has a loving heart. You’ll want to laugh with her and root for her. You’ll love Caleb, and you’ll root for him, too! This book has twists, turns, and it’s full of surprises.

The most fun I have is meeting readers like you who I consider friends through social media, at conferences, and that I’ve met at Amish talks, Amish Girlfriend Getaways, and many other places. If I wasn’t writing and speaking, I would’ve never met people like you. That’s what keeps me writing. Thank you so much for your interest in my books.

My daughter, Misty, had a little girl, Jolene, and she keeps me busy, and she’s so much fun. Some days, she sits on my lap, and we write together! Thank you for joining me here today! I hope you’ll connect with me on Facebook!

My Thoughts

Rachael’s Decision by Molly Jebber takes us back to Charm, Ohio in 1915 where Rachael Schlabach works at the Charm Bakery.  An accident cost Rachael her fiancé and gave her a limp.  Since the death of Nathan Wagler’s wife, Rachael has been helping him with household chores and with his two kinner.  Rachael had hopes that Nathan would ask to court her, but he is still grieving.  One day Caleb Yutzy walks into the bakery.   Caleb is instantly attracted to Rachael.  He immediately asks her to share dinner with his family the next day.  When Caleb asks to court her, Rachael accepts, but she fails to share some news that might make him change his mind.  As Rachael begins spending time with Caleb, Nathan and his children miss her presence in their lives.  Nathan invites Rachael to dinner and asks if he can court her.  Rachael is torn between the two men.  Rachael will need God’s guidance so she can make the right decision.  

Rachael’s Decision is the sixth book in the Amish Charm Bakery series.  It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series.  The story contains good writing with realistic characters.  The story moved at a gentle pace.  There was a good flow to the story.  I enjoyed getting to know Rachael, Nathan, and Caleb.  Nathan’s children, Joy and Thad are sweethearts.  Joy stood out to me.  She is a precocious child.  I like that we get to catch up with the characters in the other Amish Charm Bakery novels including Sheriff Williams and Dr. Harrison.  I like how the author uses Sheriff Williams and Dr. Harrison’s having breakfast and reading the paper to add historical details.  I found Rachael’s Decision to be an emotional story.  It is a story that tugs at your heartstrings.  Faith was beautifully incorporated into the story.  The characters trust God and rely on Him to guide them.  I like that they pray about a decision before making it.  I like how the characters had the love and support of family, friends, and community.   Rachael’s Decision is a poignant tale with a caring community, a bevy of baked goods, a sweet suitor, two sweet kids, an upsetting secret, and a generous God.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Molly is giving away the grand prize of a $75 Amazon gift card and copy of Rachael’s Decision!!  Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click here to enter.  Good Luck!

Rachael's Decision is available from Amazon*.  You can find the other novels in The Amish Charm Bakery series here (if you belong to Kindle Unlimited, you can read them for free).  You can find Molly Jebber's other books here.  Thank you for joining me today.  Remember to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a $75 Amazon gift card and a copy of Rachael's Decision.  Good Luck!  I will return on Tuesday, February 21 to feature Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard.  It is the latest novel in the Promise Lodge series. I hope the rest of your week is enjoyable and that you have a relaxing weekend.  Take care and Happy Reading!


Kris

The Avid Reader 

Blog Stops


Vicky Sluiter, February 3

Texas Book-aholic, February 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 5

Simple Harvest Reads, February 5 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Lighthouse Academy, February 6 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 7

For Him and My Family, February 8

deb’s Book Review, February 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 9

Holly’s Book Corner, February 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 10

She Lives to Read, February 11

Older & Smarter?, February 11

Jeanette’s Thoughts, February 12

Cover Lover Book Review, February 13

Connie’s History Classroom, February 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 14

The Avid Reader, February 15

Girls in White Dresses, February 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 16

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.