BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: Amy Clipston, Ruth Reid, & Kelly Irvin

Title: An Amish Christmas Gift

Authors: Amy Clipston, Ruth Reid, & Kelly Irvin

Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishing

Ages: Adult

Synopsis:

Naomi’s Gift by Amy Clipston…twenty-four-year-old Naomi King has all but given up on marriage and children. As Christmas approaches, Naomi is certain that her life will be spent as an old maid, helping with the family’s quilting business and taking care of her eight siblings. Then she meets Caleb, a young widower with a seven-year-old daughter, and her world is once again turned upside-down.

An Unexpected Joy by Ruth Reid…Being a caregiver for Micah Zook’s grandmother is the answer to Abigail’s prayers. In fact, the elderly lady keeps finding ways to set Abigail up with her grandson. Desite Abigail’s constant chatter, Micah realizes he’s beginning to care for herr…until he makes a decision that leaves her feeling betrayed. With Christmas in the midst, can Micah find a way to reconcile with Abigail and to reveal the true feelings of his heart?

A Christmas Visitor by Kelly Irvin…Frannie knows her parents have the best of intentions when they send her back to Bee County, Texas, to live with her aunt and her aunt’s new husband Mordecai. After all, Frannie knows nothing can come of a relationship with Rocky, the handsome Englisch farm boy back in Missouri. But all best are off when Rocky follows Frannie to Texas to plead his case. Could he be the Christmas gift to end all gifts?

Why I think you should read it:

A collection of novellas is just what the spirit needs during this time of year. Each story is craftily woven with just enough emotion and intrigue to keep readers coming back for more. My personal favorite is A Christmas Visitor because of the length Englisch born Rocky goes to show Frannie and her family they deserve a chance to be together. Heartwarming and hopeful, this Amish holiday collection would make a great addition to any library.

Like-o-meter Rating scale **: 4 out of 5...think about it.

**

5 out of 5...grab it!

4 out of 5...think about it.

3 out of 5...take it or leave it.

2 out of 5...maybe not for you.

1 out of 5...forget about it!

Blurb: Addie comes from a long line of readers or "story catchers" as her family likes to call themselves. Every time Addie tries to catch a story on her own the wiggly words play tricks on her. She tries different ways to make those words sit still but it will take a little faith for Addie to become the next STORY CATCHER.

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: Kathleen Fuller

Title: A Reluctant Bride

Author: Kathleen Fuller

Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishing

Ages: Adult

Synopsis:

Sadie Schrock wants to be left alone and be able to take over the family business when her parents are ready to retire. But all of her other Amish friends are courting and marrying,  while she is being pressured to consider a marriage proposal from someone who tried to attack her six years earlier.

At first Sadie stays strong to her chosen path but the tragic death of her parents by a reckless driver and her younger sister’s mounting hospital bills force Sadie to do something she swears she will never do…marry. Not to just anyone, but to the brother of the man who attacked her years before. Only time and faith can heal old wounds and allow two wedded strangers a chance at falling in love.

Why I think you should read it:

Stories written from an Amish point of view will always capture my attention. It’s my natural curiosity for another culture and Ms. Fuller’s book does not disappoint. Full of cultural references as well as suspense and romance, A RELUCTANT BRIDE will leave readers eagerly turning the next page to see if this reluctant bride stays reluctant for long. A good addition to any library.

Like-o-meter Rating scale **: 4 out of 5...think about it.

**

5 out of 5...grab it!

4 out of 5...think about it.

3 out of 5...take it or leave it.

2 out of 5...maybe not for you.

1 out of 5...forget about it!

Blurb: Addie comes from a long line of readers or "story catchers" as her family likes to call themselves. Every time Addie tries to catch a story on her own the wiggly words play tricks on her. She tries different ways to make those words sit still but it will take a little faith for Addie to become the next STORY CATCHER.