Category Archives: Zebra Books

September 13, 2021 · 12:02 am

Review: Christmas Comes to Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

Title: Christmas Comes to Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard
The Maidels of Morning Star Series Book Three
Publisher: Zebra Books
Genre: Contemporary, Amish, Romance
Length: 338 pages
Book Rating: B+

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

For fans of Beverly Lewis and Cindy Woodsmall comes a new Amish inspirational romance set at a most joyful time of year–Christmas!—in the heartwarming community of Morning Star, Missouri, with its mouthwatering marketplace, close-knit community, and blessings for everyone—even enterprising, noodle-making, unmarried twin maidels who’ve given up on love and families of their own.

Founded by five unmarried and enterprising Amish maidels, the new Morning Star Marketplace in small-town Missouri is preparing for a joyous Christmas season. But will the holiday also bring unexpected tidings of love?
 
Twin sisters Molly and Marietta Helfing are eagerly anticipating Christmas, with Marietta fully recovered from cancer and their noodle making business thriving. But Molly clearly misses having former tenant Pete Shetler and his rambunctious dog, Riley, around. Marietta can’t ignore Molly’s feelings for Pete—or the anxiety it stirs within her. Convinced her illness has made her unmarriageable, Marietta wonders what kind of life she’ll have if her sister marries—despite Molly’s promise to never leave her behind. . .

Then a fire destroys the home of Amish neighbors and Molly and Marietta graciously make room for widower Glenn Detweiler, his dat, and his two young boys. When Pete returns to help the family rebuild, Molly relishes her reunion with the handsome carpenter, while Marietta delights in mothering Glenn’s boys—and is surprised by her poignant bond with their quiet, brooding father. Soon everyone is wondering if this season will bring the blessing of a merry double wedding to Morning Star . . .

Review:

Christmas Comes to Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard is a marvelous Amish holiday romance. Although this latest release is the third novel in The Maidels of Morning Star series, it can be read as a standalone. However, I highly recommend all of the books in this wonderful series.

Molly and Marietta Helfing are twin sisters in their mid-thirties. They share their family home and they own a very successful homemade noodle business. Since the Morning Star Marketplace opened, they are busier than ever.

In addition to the noodle business, they also rent portions of their home during the tourist season. Now their previous tenant, Pete Shetler and his rambunctious pup Riley, has moved out, Molly and Marietta find their home a little too quiet. But after a devastating housefire destroys Glenn Detweiler’s home, they gladly open their doors to him, his children and his dat.

Marietta has mostly recovered from her breast cancer treatments. She is certain no man will want to marry her so she remains committed to living with Molly. When widower Glen Detweiler temporarily moves in, she takes charge of his seven-year-old son Billy Jay and baby Levi. Marietta is completely smitten by the children and she beginning to experience tender emotions for Glenn.

Glenn’s year has been absolutely heartbreaking as he mourns the loss of his wife and mother. He is lost in his grief and he is barely coping with the added childcare duties. Luckily his dat, Ruben lives with him, but his father’s mind appears to be atarting to slip. Crushed under the weight of grief and responsibility, Glenn is devastated at the loss of family’s home. He is appreciative of the community’s help in rebuilding his home and more grateful than words can express as both his sons blossom while in Marietta’s care.  Glenn is surprised when he begins to care for Marietta but will she be receptive to a romantic relationship?

Molly misses Pete but she cannot envision a future with him since he has not been baptized and clings to his English ways. He is also a little immature and acts before he thinks. So, she taken off guard when he is selected to oversee the construction of Glenn’s new house. However, unbeknownst to Molly, Pete is taking stock of his life and begins making some interesting changes. But will his impulsivity ruin his chances for a future that might include Molly?

Christmas Comes to Morning Star is a charming Amish romance with a delightful cast of characters. Marietta and Molly are wonderful, independent women who genuinely care about others. Glenn initially feels lost and hopeless but as he regains his faith, he finally realizes what he needs to do if he wants a life with Marietta. Molly is upbeat, feisty and caring when Pete needs her most. The Amish community selflessly come together when one of their own need a loving hand. With characters realistically growing and evolving, Charlotte Hubbard brings this heartfelt Christmas story to an uplifting, happy conclusion. With one secondary story arc unresolved, old and new fans will be impatiently awaiting the next installment in The Maidels of Morning Star series.

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Filed under Amish, Charlotte Hubbard, Christmas Comes to Morning Star, Contemporary, Rated B+, Romance, The Maidels of Morning Star Series, Zebra Books

August 2, 2021 · 12:02 am

Review: An Unexpected Amish Courtship by Rachel J. Good

Title: An Unexpected Amish Courtship by Rachel J. Good
Surprised by Love Series Book Two
Publisher: Zebra Books
Genre: Contemporary, Amish, Romance
Length: 368 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

The luscious scent of fresh-picked peaches and summer apples . . . the warming promise of grilled corn, sweet and savory baked goods . . . and love. In Rachel J. Good’s uplifting Amish romance series, blessed hearts come together in a bustling Pennsylvania community and farmer’s market . . .

Jilted by her first love, Sovilla Mast fled her hometown to live in Pennsylvania with an aunt she’s never met. Only after she arrives does she realize that the cantankerous woman has left the faith and alienated everyone around her. To take her mind off her sadness, Sovilla turns to baking homemade pet food and treats to sell at the Valley Green Farmer’s Market. It’s there she meets dog breeder Isaac Lantz . . .

Shy and kind-hearted, Isaac breeds Labrador retrievers and works as a puppy raiser for assistance dogs. When he and Sovilla bond at the market, he is immediately drawn to her. And when he tells her he needs a new puppy raiser, Sovilla jumps at the chance. But as their friendship deepens, Isaac can’t help but notice that Sovilla keeps herself at a safe distance. Gaining a puppy’s trust and affection has been easy for Isaac, yet he has no idea how to win the heart of the woman he’s fallen in love with—until Sovilla needs advice in dealing with her aunt. Soon, Isaac is putting his lessons from man’s best friend, and his faith, to work for the good of all involved . . .

Review:

An Unexpected Amish Courtship by Rachel J. Good is a charming Amish romance. Although this newest release is the second book in the Surprised by Love series, it can be read as a standalone.

After nineteen-year-old Sovilla Mast’s controlling uncle sells the house she lives with her Mamm and sisters, her mother sends her to live with her Aunt Wilma. Dismayed to leave her family behind, Sovilla tries to make the best of her new situation. Unfortunately, Wilma has been deeply hurt in the past and she is extremely unpleasant to everyone around her. Sovilla’s deep faith serves her well as he exercises patience and forgiveness with her crotchety aunt.

One of the few truly bright spots in her day comes when she spends time with Isaac Lantz. Wilma is very strict so Isaac and Sovila must make the most of their moments together. Sovilla also guilt over how drawn she is to Isaac since left behind a boyfriend when she moved. When she discovers why she has not heard from him, will Sovilla and Isaac have any chance for a future together?

Sovilla is a sweet young woman with a kind heart. Although Wilma is verbally abusive, Sovilla remains pleasant and understanding of her aunt’s obvious deep-seated pain. She enjoys spending time in Isaac’s calming presence. Sovilla is also welcomed by his family and she is thrilled when they invite her to their home.

Isaac has difficulty speaking and fortunately for him, Liesl Vandenberg, the owner of the Green Valley Farmer’s Market offers advice that helps him with his speech. He is a quiet man with who lacks confidence especially when he is around Sovilla. Isaac is very thoughtful and he would never to anything to hurt Sovilla.

Wilma has never gotten over a traumatic event that occurred during her teenage years. She has made her own way and she supports herself with her pickle sales at the farmer’s market. Facing an upcoming hip replacement, Wilma gets her affairs in order. Very fearful about her surgery, she tells Sovilla enough about her past that explains her deep unhappiness. What will Sovilla do with this shocking information?

An Unexpected Amish Courtship is a sweet Amish romance that is well-written and engaging. Sovilla and Isaac are wonderful characters whose deep faith guides them through life’s difficulties. Wilma is a thoroughly disagreeable woman whose emotional barriers are no match for Soviall’s kind-hearted presence. With unexpected twists and turns, Rachel J. Good brings this delightful romance to a wonderful conclusion. Old and new fans of the Surprised by Love series are sure to enjoy this latest installment.

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Filed under Amish, An Unexpected Amish Romance, Contemporary, Rachel J Good, Rated B, Review, Romance, Surprised by Love Series, Zebra Books

May 28, 2021 · 12:01 am

Review: The Preacher’s Daughter by Patricia Johns

Title: The Preacher’s Daughter by Patricia Johns
The Infamous Amish Series Book Two
Publisher: Zebra Books
Genre: Contemporary, Amish, Romance
Length: 352 pages
Book Rating:

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

For a Pennsylvania Amish family whose faith has been tested, the blessings of marriage, home, and togetherness seem impossible. Patricia Johns brings her trademark warmth to this story of love’s powerful redemption.

With her preacher father in prison for fraud, Elizabeth Yoder’s life in the community of Bountiful has been painfully uprooted. Mindful of wearing out her welcome with her family, she jumps at the chance to stay with elderly Bridget Lantz while the woman’s daughter is away. Elizabeth has secret plans to leave for another Amish community where she might get a fresh start, but here with Bridget, she feels comfortable—until Bridget’s strapping grandson, Solomon, returns from eight years with the English, and inspires feelings that shake Elizabeth’s resolution . . .

Solomon has had his own trouble with the law, after falling in with some bad influences. He’s paid the price, despite his innocence, but the Amish are even more wary of him than they are of spirited Elizabeth. With good reason, he supposes—he’s not sure he’s ready to commit to this way of life again, especially since the Englishers are the ones offering him solutions. The only thing that seems certain is his attraction to Elizabeth. As they strive to find their places in the community, and with each other, can they open their hearts to the blessing of love?

Review:

The Preacher’s Daughter by Patricia Johns is a thought-provoking Amish romance. Although this newest release is the second installment in The Infamous Amish series, it can be read as a standalone.

Elizabeth Yoder lives under the cloud of her once respected father’s arrest and conviction for fraud. She is also still very upset she has not heard her youngest sister, Lovina, who left their community a year earlier. Elizabeth is temporarily staying with Bridget Lantz, an elderly widow who needs a little assistance while her daughter-in-law is out of town. Elizabeth is considering her plans for the future since she would like to marry and have a family. With her family name so tarnished, her prospects in her community are dim. Will the arrival of Bridget’s grandson Solomon change her mind about her plans?

Solomon left the Amish community and fell in with the wrong crowd. Having paid for his mistakes, he is looking for a fresh start. Solomon hopes the community will show him grace but he is discovering forgiveness and trust are in short supply. He is finding comfort in the time he spends with Elizabeth. However, a life together seems impossibly out of reach as he considers what he will do next.

Elizabeth is surprised by how much she likes Solomon, but she is hoping to become a respected person within her community. She knows a relationship with him is impossible but she cannot deny the attraction between them. With few options open to him, Solomon is hoping to convince Elizabeth to agree to his plans. But is there any chance she will say yes?

The Preacher’s Daughter is a very sweet romance with a realistic storyline. Elizabeth and Solomon are both wonderfully developed characters with relatable strengths and flaws. The plot is well-written with true to life problems to solve. With an unexpected twist, Patricia Johns brings this captivating romance to a very satisfying conclusion. Old and new fans of The Infamous Amish series are sure to enjoy this heartwarming love story.

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Filed under Amish, Contemporary, Patricia Johns, Rated B+, Review, Romance, The Infamous Amish Series, The Preachers Daughter, Zebra Books

April 30, 2021 · 12:01 am

Review: Loving Mrs. Bontrager by Loree Lough

Title: Loving Mrs. Bontrager by Loree Lough
A Little Child Shall Lead Them Series Book Three
Publisher: Zebra Books
Genre: Contemporary, Amish, Romance
Length: 320 pages
Book Rating: B+

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

Amid the New Order Amish community of Oakland, Maryland, an unexpected gift of comfort and tender caring can help spark a surprising dream of love . . .

Between raising three grieving children and running a booming business, recent widower Aaron Bontrager desperately needs help—even if it means a marriage of convenience only. He couldn’t be more surprised by his new wife, ebullient Bethel Mast. With an unconventional, joyful sense of purpose, she’s starting to turn his house back into a home and bring stability and peace to his children’s lives. And somehow, her gentle understanding is reigniting impossible hope in Aaron’s guarded, lonely heart . . .

Bethel never had a fair chance for a home and family of her own. She doesn’t want to replace Aaron’s first wife, but she’ll face any challenge to aid him and his children. And she soon finds Aaron’s formidable exterior hides a sensitivity and caring that she’s quietly drawn to. Can Bethel show him that their practical arrangement is blossoming into so much more—and can be the start of a wonderful future together for all of them?

Review:

Loving Mrs. Bontrager by Loree Lough is an absolutely heartwarming Amish romance. Although this newest release is the third book in the A Little Child Shall Lead Them series, it can be read as a standalone.

Widower Aaron Bontrager has struggled to balance raising his three children and running his very successful sawmill. His kids need stability and he needs someone he can rely on to stay with them on a more permanent basis. Between his brother-in-law Karl and his Bishop, they arrive at a solution: Aaron should enter into a marriage of convenience with Karl’s cousin Bethel “Beth” Mast. Despite his uneasiness at marrying a stranger, Aaron and Beth have a few conversations before she moves to Maryland. Beth has a few reservations of her own, but she knows she needs to escape her father and brother. Although their introduction has a few hiccups, Beth is determined to keep her end of their bargain. Aaron continues to harbor doubts as he is plagued with guilt over his mistakes with his first wife. Will this practical arrangement turn into a loving marriage?

Beth is immediately charmed by eight-year-old Molly, six-year-old Matthew and ten-year-old Sam.  She has a take charge attitude when it comes to getting the house in order.  But she is always caring and compassionate with Aaron’s kids. Molly eagerly welcomes her into the family and Matthew is a sweetheart. Young Sam is a tough nut to crack, but with patience and understanding, Beth hopes he will accept her into his life. Beth is a little more tentative with Aaron but he is soon thankful for her thoughtful attention to everyone’s needs.

Aaron would do anything to make ensure his kids’ happiness. He remains uncertain he is making the right decision but he soon quite taken with his soon-to-be wife. Beth is unflappable in just about every situation which he very much appreciates as he works long hours to keep up with his hectic schedule. Aaron enjoys spending time with her and they go through with their wedding plans. As they get to know each other, will their feelings deepen into love?

Loving Mrs. Bontrager is a captivating Amish romance with marvelous characters and a relatable storyline. Beth is a warm-hearted and giving woman who does not let her past define her. Aaron struggles to reconcile his memories of his first marriage with his very different experience with Beth. All of the kids are wonderful and Beth handles the difficulties with settling into the new family with serenity and grace. Loree Lough brings this lovely romance to a sigh-worthy conclusion. Old and new fans are sure to enjoy this latest addition to the A Little Child Shall Lead Them series.

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Filed under A Little Child Shall Lead Them Series, Amish, Contemporary, Loree Lough, Loving Mrs. Bontrager, Rated B+, Review, Romance, Zebra Books

April 27, 2021 · 12:01 am

Review Picnic in Someday Valley by Jodi Thomas

Title: Picnic in Someday Valley by Jodi Thomas
Honey Creek Series Book Two
Publisher: Zebra Books
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 336 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

The charming and uplifting new novel from the legendary author of dozens of unforgettable romances! Travel to the small town of Honey Creek where ties run deep and happiness is just around the next river bend…

Marcie Latimer longs to run away from Someday Valley—especially since her ex-boyfriend spun a web of lies that almost led to tragedy in neighboring Honey Creek. Little wonder so many locals have turned their backs on her. But not Brand Rodgers. The quiet cowboy comes to listen every time she sings at Bandit’s Bar, offering a glimpse of safety and calm that Marcie’s rarely known.

After Texas Ranger Colby McBride saved Honey Creek’s mayor, Piper Mackenzie, from a fire, she claimed him with a kiss. That was five months ago, and Colby still isn’t sure where they’re headed. Piper loves her town—but does she love Colby? And is he even ready for what comes next?

Pecos Smith, Honey Creek’s emergency dispatcher, is grateful to have a new bride he adores and a baby on the way—even if one vital piece of the puzzle is missing. But as trouble comes stalking through the valley, lives will cross surprising paths. And Marcie, who’s always felt that a forever love was out of reach, might discover that Someday is the perfect place to find it .

Review:

Picnic in Someday Valley by Jodi Thomas is a sweet, homespun, romance. Although this newest release is the second novel in the Honey Creek series, it can be read as a standalone.

Marci Latimer has been down on her luck ever since her previous boyfriend’s arrest and conviction. She is living in an unsafe area but it is close to the bar where she sings on weekends. Marci’s car is currently out of commission so she has not followed through with the plans she has been making for her future. After a group of drunken bar customers try to hurt her, she and local cowboy Brand Rodgers form a friendship that  quietly grows into something deeper. The threat of flooding in nearby Honey Creek provides an unexpected opportunity that could help her get back on her feet. With one of the men who tried to attack her threatening her, Marci decides it is time for her to stop being so timid. With Brand’s assistance, she is prepared for whatever comes her way.

Marci loves spending time with Brand but the taciturn cowboy does not reveal much about himself. They enjoy quiet evenings together and he makes her feel incredibly safe and cared for during their time together. Brand is very supportive of Marci’s recent decisions and he will do anything to keep her out of harm’s way.

In nearby Honey Creek, farmer, widower and father of three Jesse Keaton is suddenly smitten with bakery owner Adalee. He makes up excuses to see her but he does not see any way he can ask her out. Between working his farm and caring for his children, Jesse has very little free time. Needless to say, he is taken off guard when Adalee appears to be attracted to him as well. But is there any chance they will be able to see where a relationship between them might go?

Honey Creek Mayor Piper Mackenzie is still involved with a long-distance relationship with Texas Ranger Colby McBride. But their time together is very limited due to both of their demanding careers. Piper is excited about Colby’s upcoming visit but their severe lack of communication is becoming a huge problem. Will Colby find a way to salvage their fractured relationship?

Picnic in Someday Valley is a heartwarming romance with a wonderful, downhome cast of characters. The various characters are vividly developed and very easy to like. The various story arcs fit together seamlessly as their lives begin to intersect.  The different  romances are marvelous to watch unfold as the couples figure out how to make their lives fit together. With a hint of suspense, Jodi Thomas brings this small-town romance to a heartfelt conclusion. Old and new fans of the Honey Creek are sure to love this newest installment.

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Filed under Contemporary, Honey Creek Series, Jodi Thomas, Picnic in Someday Valley, Rated B, Review, Zebra Books

March 25, 2021 · 12:01 am

Review: An Unexpected Amish Proposal by Rachel J. Good

Title: An Unexpected Amish Proposal by Rachel J. Good
Surprised by Love Series Book One
Publisher: Zebra Books
Genre: Contemporary, Amish, Romance
Length: 384 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

Sometimes love is found in the most unexpected places—as three blessed men will discover in Rachel J. Good’s heartwarming Amish romance series, set in a bustling Pennsylvania community . . .

When an organic farm causes rents to skyrocket at the Valley Green Farmer’s Market, Fern Blauch’s family baked goods stand is driven to the edge of eviction. . . . Until a mysterious temporary reprieve. Fern is confused when she discovers the benefactor is barbecued chicken stand owner—and her longtime crush—Gideon Hartzler. She’s grateful, but pridefully tells him she intends to pay him back. If only she can find a new place to sell her wares . . .

To stay competitive, and help as many others as he can, Gideon expands his stand to provide full meals—including dessert. That’s where Fern comes in. As the two work long hours, side-by-side, business booms—and so does their attraction. Still, the demands of caring for aging parents and struggling relatives cause them to hide any feelings beyond friendship. But as new challenges emerge and Gideon and Fern turn more deeply to their faith, and to each other, will love find a place at their table?

Review:

An Unexpected Amish Proposal by Rachel J. Good is a warm-hearted Amish romance.

Fern Blauch loves working in her family’s baked good stand at the Valley Green Family Market. She and the people who work the other stands have formed warm friendships over the years. They are shocked when the new owner, Russell Evans, raises their rent so high they will not be able to turn a profit. Realizing they will most likely go out of business, Gideon Hartzler steps in and strikes a secret deal with Russell in order to give Fern and the others the opportunity to decide their next steps. When the two months are up, what will happen to Fern and the others?

Fern is a kind-hearted young woman who genuinely cares about others. She has long had a crush on Gideon but she tries to hide her interest in him.  When she unexpectedly gets the chance to continue selling her baked goods, they spend their days in close proximity. Pleased to spend most of her days with him, Fern’s hopes are soon dashed he might view her in a more romantic light. When she believes someone else has captured his heart, will Fern continue to work with Gideon?

Gideon is a loyal person who always keeps his word. He bears more than his share of responsibility as he works his family’s chicken stand, helps his widowed sister-in-law with her children and takes on the mess his deceased brother left behind. Gideon often acts before he thinks and several situations in his life begin to spiral out of control. Then there is his inconvenient attraction to Fern…

The majority of the story takes place in the Market. The daily contact between Fern and Gideon gives each other even more to admire as they deftly handle issues with compassion. They also assist a troubled teen as his relationship with his father deteriorates. Gideon faces a new quandary when he feels vaguely threatened by a businessman who recently begins working at the Market. In between drama, misunderstandings and weighty personal obligations, Fern and Gideon’s feelings for each other continue to deepen.

With a tiny hint of mystery, An Unexpected Amish Proposal is a sweet Amish romance. The plot is engaging with interesting story arcs. Gideon and Fern are wonderfully developed with realistic foibles, strong faith and giving hearts.  Rachel J. Good brings this charming novel to a sigh-worthy conclusion. Fans of Amish romances are sure to enjoy this first installment in the Surprised by Love series.

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Filed under Amish, An Unexpected Amish Proposal, Contemporary, Rachel J Good, Rated B, Review, Romance, Surprised by Love Series, Zebra Books