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Families of Honor #2
The Protector
When Ella's father passes away, she's forced to auction most of his belongings, including her family's land. Though she knows she couldn't manage the fifty acres on her own, she can't stop the bitterness she feels toward the new owner, Loyal Weaver. Remodeling and repairing the Troyer's old farmhouse, he intends to make the farm profitable--as Ella had once dreamed of doing.
Protective of Ella's bruised feelings, Loyal asks her for help and advice for the home he's fixing up--the home that he secretly hopes will be hers again, as his wife.
But the one thing Ella guards against all else is her heart. Always the wallflower, she's used duty to mask her loneliness. Now, though, she can't deny the feelings she holds for Loyal and the happiness he promises. On her own for the first time, will she find the courage to risk everything to get the love she's always wanted?
Protective of Ella's bruised feelings, Loyal asks her for help and advice for the home he's fixing up--the home that he secretly hopes will be hers again, as his wife.
But the one thing Ella guards against all else is her heart. Always the wallflower, she's used duty to mask her loneliness. Now, though, she can't deny the feelings she holds for Loyal and the happiness he promises. On her own for the first time, will she find the courage to risk everything to get the love she's always wanted?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2011
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
134 books2,346 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
April 10, 2017
Very interesting novel, one that will obtain and keep your attention from the beginning until the very end. This is a novel made up of multiple stories, so if that is not your thing then this novel would not be your cup of tea; however, if you are on the edge I suggest that you give it a chance. I am not typically one for this type of story line (one with multiple branched off stories), but it was very good and I was not disappointed.
Every character was thoroughly developed and well thought out. There was suspense, love, and every mix of emotions in-between. I am definitely planning on reading more of Ms. Gray's novels in the near future.
Every character was thoroughly developed and well thought out. There was suspense, love, and every mix of emotions in-between. I am definitely planning on reading more of Ms. Gray's novels in the near future.
August 7, 2019
This was a new to me author book that wasn't bad but wasn't great either. It bugged me that the author didn't give the reader enough credit for context clues on the Pennsylvania Dutch, which resulted in dialogue that occasionally read like something from a first year foreign language workbook. Do you think she's schee? Yes, I think she's pretty.
The main characters were likable. Their relationship grew naturally, and I enjoyed following along. The "bad guy" was realistically creepy. However, Ella was described as a very shy and timid woman who later forces confrontations with said bad guy. That did not feel realistic.
While some of the minor characters were entertaining, their story lines were too separate. Sometimes I turned to a new chapter and felt as though I was picking up a completely different book. We even end up with a woman who has never spoken to Ella (expect possibly in the first book I didn't read) leading the charge to rescue her in the big climax. I was so confused by her sudden interest that it detracted from any tension the author was trying to build.
But then the romance wrapped up sweetly, and I found myself wanting to pick up the next book despite any complaints about this one.
The main characters were likable. Their relationship grew naturally, and I enjoyed following along. The "bad guy" was realistically creepy. However, Ella was described as a very shy and timid woman who later forces confrontations with said bad guy. That did not feel realistic.
While some of the minor characters were entertaining, their story lines were too separate. Sometimes I turned to a new chapter and felt as though I was picking up a completely different book. We even end up with a woman who has never spoken to Ella (expect possibly in the first book I didn't read) leading the charge to rescue her in the big climax. I was so confused by her sudden interest that it detracted from any tension the author was trying to build.
But then the romance wrapped up sweetly, and I found myself wanting to pick up the next book despite any complaints about this one.
June 8, 2025
A lovely follow on to The Caregiver.
May 8, 2011
Ella Hostetler was always enamored with Loyal Weaver, all through school she always dreamed of him, but he never noticed her, actually she felt as if no one really paid much attention to her. She wore glasses and always felt tall and gangly. After the death of her father, her mother became ill, and because Ella was an only child the responsibility of caring for her mother and taking care of the farm was sometimes overwhelming. The one person who checked on her regularly was Dorothy. So when Ella's mother dies, she decides to auction off the family farm. Her friend Dorothy helps her get a job at the library and rents her an apt. Turns out Loyal purchased the farm and is soon inviting Ella out to see the changes he has made. Could it be that after all these years Loyal is finally noticing Ella? As Ella's self confidence starts to bloom, Dorothy tries to put doubts in her mind. Will Ella finally have a chance at love?
This is the second book in the Family of Honor Series, and I must say I really enjoyed continuing to read about the characters from the first book. Ella really dealt with self esteem issues,but it was so nice to see her come out of her shell. The character of Dorothy was quite interesting. I think bitterness over what had happened to her when she was younger really warped her mind. I really don't think that I have ever read another Amish character quite like her.
I also enjoyed reading a bit more about Calvin and Lucy, and I love seeing things through young Katie's eyes.Her determination to get to the library and sign up for the summer reading program was so cute. The scenes that take place in the Kaffi Haus really had me wanting a donut!
I also like the continuing story of Maddie and her health issues. I really want her to find someone special of her own, although I feel as if she already has.
At the end of this book we get a brief teaser for "The Survivor," the next book in the series which is due out in August 2011, and I for one can't wait!
If your a fan of Amish fiction that isn't quite so predictable then you should definitely pick up this book. While it is the second book in the series it can easily be read as a stand alone work, but because the stories are so good I would suggest reading the first book in the series as well titled The Caregiver.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me an e-copy of this book for review.
This is the second book in the Family of Honor Series, and I must say I really enjoyed continuing to read about the characters from the first book. Ella really dealt with self esteem issues,but it was so nice to see her come out of her shell. The character of Dorothy was quite interesting. I think bitterness over what had happened to her when she was younger really warped her mind. I really don't think that I have ever read another Amish character quite like her.
I also enjoyed reading a bit more about Calvin and Lucy, and I love seeing things through young Katie's eyes.Her determination to get to the library and sign up for the summer reading program was so cute. The scenes that take place in the Kaffi Haus really had me wanting a donut!
I also like the continuing story of Maddie and her health issues. I really want her to find someone special of her own, although I feel as if she already has.
At the end of this book we get a brief teaser for "The Survivor," the next book in the series which is due out in August 2011, and I for one can't wait!
If your a fan of Amish fiction that isn't quite so predictable then you should definitely pick up this book. While it is the second book in the series it can easily be read as a stand alone work, but because the stories are so good I would suggest reading the first book in the series as well titled The Caregiver.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me an e-copy of this book for review.
September 12, 2014
Interesting book. The dichotomy of faiths - Christian and Amish - was intriguing, as well as the plot line. When Ella's mother passes on, she's left all alone and cannot maintain her family's farm. She is forced to move into town and is grateful when Dorothy helps her obtain a job at the local library.
Unfortunately, Dorothy has an agenda of her own. A bitter old maid, Dorothy is desperate to control anyone and everyone. That includes Ella. At first, Ella excuses her strange attempts to become more than friends, but Dorothy's obsession soon draws additional concern from Ella's friends. No longer does she feel safe and secure.
Dorothy is also jealous of Ella's growing attraction to Loyal Weaver, a handsome, kind man, who purchased Ella's family homestead at auction. Loyal always seemed to be too good for "Plain Ella", but he certainly doesn't seem that way now. As their friendship begins to grow into something rare and wonderful, Dorothy decides to take things into her own hands. She spirits Ella away in her buggy and it's anyone's guess whether help can arrive in time to save Ella from a terrible fate.
Unfortunately, Dorothy has an agenda of her own. A bitter old maid, Dorothy is desperate to control anyone and everyone. That includes Ella. At first, Ella excuses her strange attempts to become more than friends, but Dorothy's obsession soon draws additional concern from Ella's friends. No longer does she feel safe and secure.
Dorothy is also jealous of Ella's growing attraction to Loyal Weaver, a handsome, kind man, who purchased Ella's family homestead at auction. Loyal always seemed to be too good for "Plain Ella", but he certainly doesn't seem that way now. As their friendship begins to grow into something rare and wonderful, Dorothy decides to take things into her own hands. She spirits Ella away in her buggy and it's anyone's guess whether help can arrive in time to save Ella from a terrible fate.
April 17, 2013
This is a great read each book story is about a different family member but u hear about the other members from each book so u still hear how they are doing!
December 14, 2021
The Protector by Shelley Shepard Gray 304 296(282) pages
Families of Honor #2
Genre: Christian Fiction - Amish Fiction; Historical Fiction, Romance - Christian, Amish, Contemporary; Inspirational
Featuring: Recovery, Cancer, Stormy Drama, Library, Librarians and Storytime, Old Maids, Dual Storylines, Multiple POVs, Setup Next Season, Possibly Improper Situations, Children Discussion Questions, Next Book Preview 11 pages
Rating as a movie: PG
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My thoughts: Page 76 - I'm loving this book. Set in a library and reading Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, this is going to be fun. I was expecting more action from the previous book's setup. Jacob's Crossing feels more like a community in this story
Page 83 - 😀
Page 146 - I wasn't expecting drama this good. Lovin' it.
This book is the best of the series so far and one of the best books I've read by the author. First, the bad, I was hoping one of two minor storylines that were introduced in the first book would be the spotlight of the second book; instead, we have a new storyline and the other two are still singing in the background. Both storylines remain unresolved in this book so I am hoping they will be resolved in the next book, this allowed for a lot more tension to build, so much that I am thinking about skipping The Collective to start the third book immediately. The new storyline was great. I was excited to have a villainous character in an Amish Fiction book, and I don’t care if it's wrong. I was loving every bit of the obnoxious behavior, I think that part of the story even outshined the romantic portion. There was more than one unsavory character in this story which is why I'm so eager for the next book. Hooray for Dorothy, she made this book. I loved every character which is rare for me.
Recommend to others?: Yes. Best Amish Fiction I've read this year.
Families of Honor #2
Genre: Christian Fiction - Amish Fiction; Historical Fiction, Romance - Christian, Amish, Contemporary; Inspirational
Featuring: Recovery, Cancer, Stormy Drama, Library, Librarians and Storytime, Old Maids, Dual Storylines, Multiple POVs, Setup Next Season, Possibly Improper Situations, Children Discussion Questions, Next Book Preview 11 pages
Rating as a movie: PG
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My thoughts: Page 76 - I'm loving this book. Set in a library and reading Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, this is going to be fun. I was expecting more action from the previous book's setup. Jacob's Crossing feels more like a community in this story
Page 83 - 😀
Page 146 - I wasn't expecting drama this good. Lovin' it.
This book is the best of the series so far and one of the best books I've read by the author. First, the bad, I was hoping one of two minor storylines that were introduced in the first book would be the spotlight of the second book; instead, we have a new storyline and the other two are still singing in the background. Both storylines remain unresolved in this book so I am hoping they will be resolved in the next book, this allowed for a lot more tension to build, so much that I am thinking about skipping The Collective to start the third book immediately. The new storyline was great. I was excited to have a villainous character in an Amish Fiction book, and I don’t care if it's wrong. I was loving every bit of the obnoxious behavior, I think that part of the story even outshined the romantic portion. There was more than one unsavory character in this story which is why I'm so eager for the next book. Hooray for Dorothy, she made this book. I loved every character which is rare for me.
Recommend to others?: Yes. Best Amish Fiction I've read this year.
March 3, 2019
In book 2, Lucy (from book 1) is already married to Calvin Weaver, and her cousin Mattie is recovering from cancer treatment. This story follows Calvin's brother Loyal who buys the farm next door from Ella, whose parents died, her mother after a long illness. Although they went to school together, Loyal never thought about Ella much because she was always shy and quiet. After selling her family's farm, Ella moves into town to start living her own life. She moves into one half of a duplex owned by her friend Dorothy, who also got her a job with her at the library, which Ella loves. However, Ella soon learns that Dorothy isn't the person she thought she was, and she begins to fear Dorothy as Dorothy's behavior goes from irritating to dangerous. Meanwhile, Loyal is learning that there is more to Ella than he ever imagined.
Good story!
Good story!
May 16, 2021
Imagine a young woman who lost her mother, home and land all in a short period of time who feels all alone in the world. Then think how this young woman finds a controlling, invasive "friend" who upsets the shy Ella into living in fear!
Such an interesting story involving Ella's male dream guy, Loyal, his kid sister, Katie (the young book lover), scary Dorothy, and some other characters with their own lives. I enjoyed the library, the reading of books to the children. Ella's farm description is lovely too.
Good story, good book!
Such an interesting story involving Ella's male dream guy, Loyal, his kid sister, Katie (the young book lover), scary Dorothy, and some other characters with their own lives. I enjoyed the library, the reading of books to the children. Ella's farm description is lovely too.
Good story, good book!
May 29, 2021
I always enjoy Shelly Shepard Gray’s books and they never disappoint me. I have been reading her books for a long time and I enjoy how she brings real life situations into her story lines.
Everyone wants someone to protect them, make them feel safe and encourage them along the way and I felt this book was a true example of that.
Be sure you also read the other two books in the series...The Caregiver and The Survivor as some of the characters from The Protector have their own stories in this series.
Everyone wants someone to protect them, make them feel safe and encourage them along the way and I felt this book was a true example of that.
Be sure you also read the other two books in the series...The Caregiver and The Survivor as some of the characters from The Protector have their own stories in this series.
September 19, 2023
Another great read by Shelley Shepard Gray.
After the death of her father and taking care of her mother until her death Ella must sell the family farm. She has found a home to rent in town and a job at the local library.
When her farm goes up for auction, Loyal, a school mate whom she has had her eye on for many years wins the bid. He begins to make repairs on the home and invites Ella to see the repairs and to ask her opinion on some changes. Is he just “rubbing salt in the wound” or is he truly interested in becoming friends.
After the death of her father and taking care of her mother until her death Ella must sell the family farm. She has found a home to rent in town and a job at the local library.
When her farm goes up for auction, Loyal, a school mate whom she has had her eye on for many years wins the bid. He begins to make repairs on the home and invites Ella to see the repairs and to ask her opinion on some changes. Is he just “rubbing salt in the wound” or is he truly interested in becoming friends.
April 8, 2026
Ella's mother has finally passed away after a long illness. She has decided to auction the farm & their belongings to start a new life in town
. Loyal has been waiting to bit for Ella's land ever since he heard it was to be auctioned. He is buyer but feels guilty for wanting her property. But things start to change between them when he asks her to come and see some of the updates he has made to the house. She has been interested in him for years, he thought of her as "just Ella" but are things about to change. A wonderful book!
. Loyal has been waiting to bit for Ella's land ever since he heard it was to be auctioned. He is buyer but feels guilty for wanting her property. But things start to change between them when he asks her to come and see some of the updates he has made to the house. She has been interested in him for years, he thought of her as "just Ella" but are things about to change. A wonderful book!
August 23, 2019
So good! I’m really late reading this series so I’m not having to wait for another one to be published. Which is great because I don’t have to wait!
I really have enjoyed her writing. I did think Katie was a bit annoying in this book but precocious may be a better word for her.
I didn’t think there was enough of Lucy and Calvin in this book but I’m glad I got to know Loyal, Graham, Mattie and their Uncle John more.
I can’t wait to read the next one.
I really have enjoyed her writing. I did think Katie was a bit annoying in this book but precocious may be a better word for her.
I didn’t think there was enough of Lucy and Calvin in this book but I’m glad I got to know Loyal, Graham, Mattie and their Uncle John more.
I can’t wait to read the next one.
March 27, 2025
The Protector
I loved this book and was still reading it at 2:00 in the morning until I finished it! The Weaver family is wonderful and caring. The three women in the books, Lucy, Mattie and Ella, are such brave,
outstanding women and come to life in the Families of Honor books. I really enjoyed these books and am looking forward to reading more and more of Shelley Shepard Gray and
recommending them to my reader friends!
I loved this book and was still reading it at 2:00 in the morning until I finished it! The Weaver family is wonderful and caring. The three women in the books, Lucy, Mattie and Ella, are such brave,
outstanding women and come to life in the Families of Honor books. I really enjoyed these books and am looking forward to reading more and more of Shelley Shepard Gray and
recommending them to my reader friends!
March 12, 2026
Loved this book!
The author's masterful character development breathed vibrant life into the narrative, with Dorothy resonating so deeply that she felt like a familiar face from my own history. Katie's charming and precocious personality left me smiling. The tender love story woven throughout the novel added a rich emotional depth that truly elevated the entire reading experience.
The author's masterful character development breathed vibrant life into the narrative, with Dorothy resonating so deeply that she felt like a familiar face from my own history. Katie's charming and precocious personality left me smiling. The tender love story woven throughout the novel added a rich emotional depth that truly elevated the entire reading experience.
December 27, 2018
This book has a few different stories going at once. So it you don't like that, this is not the book for you. It was a cute book of overcoming troubles in life and learning to see others in a different light and making the best of our circumstances. What we think of ourselves has a big effect on the way we act.
August 27, 2022
Loved the continuation of this Amish community. The characters were interesting and lovable. The author’s books are always enjoyable. Ella makes great strides in her personal life in this book. On to Book 3 of the series!0
June 18, 2025
Another fantastic read by Gray. Although somewhat predictable, the storyline k
is captivating. Tangled, mismatched stories of romance. The character development may be one of my most favorite attributes Gray has as an author.
is captivating. Tangled, mismatched stories of romance. The character development may be one of my most favorite attributes Gray has as an author.
July 19, 2025
Another Great Book
Shelley Gray has done it again with this family of honor series. You will fall in love with the community she has built in these three books. This is the second book. Don't miss out on the adventure!
Shelley Gray has done it again with this family of honor series. You will fall in love with the community she has built in these three books. This is the second book. Don't miss out on the adventure!
November 25, 2025
Keeper!
This was another very real adventure through difficult situations but finding God guiding it all.
Ella goes through a lot and ends up married to the friend that bought her farm after she lost her parents. Loyal is definitely a Protector.
This was another very real adventure through difficult situations but finding God guiding it all.
Ella goes through a lot and ends up married to the friend that bought her farm after she lost her parents. Loyal is definitely a Protector.
June 13, 2019
Good book in a series
June 26, 2020
A wonderful drama that tells about life within the community.
August 17, 2020
Another very good book, with a happy ending!
October 30, 2020
A sweet Amish story
October 31, 2020
This book had more meat in it than a typical Amish story and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to the next in the series.
May 24, 2021
Another great story in the Families of Honor series. Absolutely love The Protector. I highly recommend putting this on your reading list.
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January 25, 2022Didn't like.
February 10, 2022
Good plot and enjoyed it in the continuing series. Looking forward to reading book 3
May 24, 2025
A quick read about an Amish woman who decides to sell her farm after both parents have died. It is just a sweet book with a little romance.
August 1, 2025
Amish meets Misery in this wilder than expected book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews