The Flower Quilter

The Heart of the Amish #1

by Mindy Steele

Barbara Breaks from Amish Tradition to Express Her Artistry Full of faith, hope, and romance, this new series takes you into the Heart of Amish country. Barbara Schwartz was born into a family of quilters, but she would rather eat dirt than partake in another quilting frolic or sew on another binding. When her parents send her to Indiana to help her grandmother in her quilting shop, she finds herself amongst a very different community. It's only one summer and then she will be back in Kentucky where she belongs. Melvin Bontrager's world stopped six years ago when his parents died. Now when his only means of providing for his widowed sister and niece is threatened, Melvin finds his landscaping business disappearing too. When spring delivers a newcomer who is immune to his salty moods, Melvin does something he has never done before, accepts help. What blooms is the last thing Barbara ever expected, and everything Melvin could ever want.

Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Audiobook, Christian, Inspirational

249 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2023

About the author

Born and raised in Kentucky's timber country, Mindy Steele writes inspirational romance and captivating suspense from her natural surroundings. A best selling author that enjoys coffee indulgences, weekend road trips, and all things peanut butter. To learn more about Mindy, go to https://mindysteeleauthor.wordpress.com

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this sweet Amish Romance by Mindy Steele. Her writing style has a smooth flow and she has the ability to carry her readers away into the midst of her stories. . Mindy writes about realistic things in every day life. In The Flower Quilter readers get to learn more about landscaping and the gift of being able to arrange different types of plants into beautiful flower quilting. The Author skillfully weaves a beautiful romance story around the flower quilts. I thought this story was well researched and it kept my interest through the entire book. The story was filled with different emotions and the beautiful ending bought this reader to tears of joy for the two main characters. Very well written!

I recommend this book to readers of Amish Romance Fiction and Women’s Fiction. This is the first book in The Heart of the Amish series. It’s scheduled to be released on 9/1/23.

I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

#TheFlowerQuilter #NetGalley

[linda hole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book feels like being out in the sunshine after a Long gloomy cold winter. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Publication Date: 09.01.23 by Barbour Publishing 256p
Genre: Christian, Romance
5 Stars!

I highly recommend this Christian romance novel as it completely delivers, as promised, a glorious story full of faith, hope, tender romance, and love!

The two main characters, Barbara and Melvin, are well-developed, realistically flawed, and oh so lovable. The author perfectly developed the storyline, kept this reader entertained and turning the pages, and left this completely enchanted to the end.

The faith content which includes Scripture and prayers, blooms with genuineness. With God at the center of it all, family, friendships, and love are wonderfully cultivated and exquisitely cherished. May I always be mindful that every good and perfect gift comes from above (James 1:17).

Here is one of a multitude of engaging quotes I highlighted: “For as long as she could remember, Barbara had focused more on doing things she didn’t particularly like instead of what stirred her heart. With time untethered and no one about to question her wandering, she let herself ponder as she strolled along. She inhaled the sweet fragrances and drank her fill in this connection with God and nature. A person could learn much from nature. One could either be part of the garden, or they could forge out another path and create their own garden.”

I hope to read all of Mindy Steele’s books based on how well I loved the writing style of this happily-ever-after, all-emotions-engaged story!

I am so thankful that via NetGalley and Barbour Publishing approved my request to view a complimentary eARC of The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele. It is such an enjoyable read! All opinions contained in this review are my own and authentic. I am not required to write a positive review.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele is a heartwarming Amish story. I thought the story was well-written with developed characters. I enjoyed getting to know Barbara Schwartz and Melvin Bontrager. I also liked Barbara’s grandparents (they are sweet, caring people) and Sarah (Melvin’s sister). Barbara’s mother and grandmother are both excellent quilters. Barbara would rather be outside working in the gardens than getting her finger pricked by a needle (she really should wear a thimble). Her quilting challenges were amusing. I understood her struggle. Barbara wants to please her family, but with regard to quilting, she is all thumbs. Barbara managed to get herself into some comical situations. I laughed often while reading The Flower Quilter. I enjoyed learning about quilt gardens and the Heritage Trail in Indiana. It turns out there is more than one way to quilt. It was interesting learning the differences and similarities between Amish communities (in this case, Kentucky and Indiana). I can tell that the author did her research for this book. The Flower Quilter is a story full of emotions, and I like that I was left smiling when I closed the book. The Flower Quilter is the first book in The Heart of the Amish series, and I am looking forward to the next installment. One of my favorite quotes is, “Finding something you love, even for as short as a single summer, is a gift. So is finding beauty in what others tend to overlook.” The Flower Quilter is an uplifting tale with quilt quibbles, beautiful blooms, troublesome twins, amusing misadventures, bevy of red barns, and gorgeous gardens.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book that makes you pause and smile or laugh out loud? This sweet story brought this out in me many times. Then I'd think, "I love this!"
Mindy Steele has fleshed out two delightful main Amish characters. Melvin, the brooding tough man with a growly demeanor and pure but aching heart that is ridden with guilt. Barbara, the ever sweet and long suffering young woman who in obedience tries hard to do what her mother expects of her even though she can't stand the family tradition. As the two start working together at her grandfather's request they get to observe and appreciate one another, establishing a friendship that could lead to more. Her need to return to her Kentucky home and his responsibilities in Indiana will separate them at summers' end.
There is descriptive writing and a loveable group of secondary characters that keeps the story flowing for a most enjoyable read.
I received the advanced reader's copy from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. This is my own unsolicited opinion about the book.

[Barb Beechy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Barbara Schwartz was sent to Indiana, from Kentucky, to help her grandmother, little did she know how her life would change. She never liked to quilt, she wanted to plant flowers and play in the dirt..
Melvin Bontrager lost his parents and had to find a way to keep money coming in for his sister and niece. He has a landscaping business, and he knew he needed help if he was to keep it going.
Can Barbara help Melvin, to keep the landscaping going with ideas of doing quilt gardens. Will it work? Will God help these 2 along the way? You need to find out by reading the story. I was given an ARC but not required to leave a review. These are my own words..

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet grumpy-sunshine novel, with two main characters who were both very devoted to their families. Barbara was very bad at and disliked quilting, which was what her entire family excelled at and her mother held up as the most important skill to have. Melvin was forsaking finding love on his own so that he could focus his support and care for his widowed sister and niece.

I liked the way Barbara brought Melvin out of his dour mood and back to life again in their everyday interactions. Neither one was looking for love because neither one really felt that they deserved it. There were many fun interactions between these two characters, as well as some times that Melvin pushed Barbara away instead of embracing the hope of love. This sweet story is the start of a new series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Sally Mander · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars, Quilting Mediums

THE FLOWER QUILTER
by Mindy Steele

Every family has that one member who rebels against everything. Barbara Schwartz feels like she can't be who she is meant to be, in her family of quilters. She'd much rather be working all day in the garden than be stuck inside, sticking her fingers with a needle.

Melvin Bontrager is losing his way of life in a landscaping business. He believes the only way he can survive and financially take care of his widowed sister and niece is to go work in a factory and be cut off from the wonderful outdoors that he loves.

Thankfully, God has more in store for them both. This is a delightful story, that shows us that you don't have to conform to a mold, to be a useful, productive person.

My favorite characters are Tough and Knot, a set of mischievous twin boys, Melvin, and Barbara.

"Worry over today, for tomorrow comes too quick." "Love never ends, and it bears all things."

I'm grateful for the complimentary copy of #TheFlowerQuilter by #BarbourPublishing #BarbourFiction @BarbourFiction I was not obligated to post a review.

#Flowers #Beauty #Landscaping #Love #InspyFic #ChristianFic #Quilting #Romance #NewRelease #MindySteele @MindySteele

[Megann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a wonderful story about a woman named Barbara who everyone wants to make into something she is not. Growing up she loved playing in the trees, chasing animals, being in the barns and in the dirt. But, her mother has her own ideas of what Barbara should do which is to make beautiful quilts. There is only one problem, Barbara can't sew and no matter how hard she tries it becomes a nightmare. Blood on the fabric from her fingers being torn by the needles, stitches that are way to far apart.
She has trouble sitting long enough to do a quilt because she would rather be outside working in her garden then inside during wonderful summer days.
In order to give her a break she goes to help out her grandparents and so begins her journey of love and a new way of life. She begins to work in landscaping with her friend Martin who takes her some time to get to know and realize he is a good guy. She develops an idea of how to plant flowers and begins to make the flowerbeds into quilts. The flowers come together to make the most beautiful displays and the company is getting more and more requests for them.
But of course life has a habit of turning the tables and both are struck by circumstances that they can't control and that they must handle. Will this tear them apart or can they find a way to achieve the dreams that each of them has.
Great summer reading, descriptions of the flower beds are outstanding and Mindy is just wonderful showing us the beauty that GOD has for us all around.

I received this book as an ARC read from Netgalley. Thank you Mindy and Vickie for thinking about me and letting me review the book. Also a big thank you to Barbour Fiction for making this available.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara feels like she doesn’t fit in with her own family because she is the only woman who doesn’t quilt. When Barbara visits her grandparents for the summer and ends up working for Melvin’s landscaping business, creating flower quilt gardens, it is there that she discovers that she does have a gift for quilting, however, just not with a needle and thread.

This is a sweet story with lovable characters, Barbara gives Melvin a reason to enjoy life again and Melvin helps Barbara see her gifts.

I recommend this book to lovers of Amish romance and look forward to reading more from this author.

Thank you NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the complimentary copy of this e-book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara feels like an outcast in her own family because she is the only one of the women who cannot learn to quilt. She would rather be outside gardening than stuck indoors poking her fingers with a needle. Melvin lives in guilt over his parents’ deaths and gives up his own future to care for his sister and niece, closing himself off to others and his own happiness. When Barbara visits her grandparents for the summer and ends up working for Melvin’s landscaping business creating flower quilt gardens, Barbara discovers she does have a gift for quilting, just not with a needle and thread. And Melvin learns to release his guilt and forgive himself. Together they find the way to overcome their pasts and embrace all the blessings God has for them.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Flower Quilter by new to me author Mindy Steele. Barbara and Melvin bring to mind Anne Shirley and Gilbert Blithe as they clash and misunderstand each other until they finally see what everyone else already has – God has put them together for a reason. Melvin helps Barbara see her positive qualities and gifts, and Barbara gives Melvin a reason to move on and enjoy life again. Themes of family, friendship, and love are woven throughout the story and show us a God Who gives hope for the future. I recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[SARAH TAYLOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele. Such an Amazing and Beautiful Story, As Barbara Swartz is headed to her grandparent's house for the summer can she overcome the one thing she wants her family to know! She doesn't enjoy quilting and she would rather be out in the sun and getting her hands in the dirt planting beautiful flowers! And in doing so she will meet a wonderful man Melvin who will need her help in making a wonderful pattern in his landscaping business. Can these two people come together and work side by side and be friends! I highly recommend this book ! I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well written, sweet story with lovable characters, Barbara and Melvin. Follow along as the two discover they have more in common than they realize and when they begin to work together, not only are their flower gardens growing, but so is their relationship. Mindy Steele, the author, knows how to write a story and keep you engaged. I have never been disappointed by any of her books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest opinion. All words are my own.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first book by Steele and I must say it wasn't that bad. If you are a fan of Amish fiction, then you might want to give this one a try.

[Pam Graber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! The sly humor that sneaks in when least expected had me laughing out loud as I read.

Barbara Schwartz is a failure as an Amish woman? Why? She can't quilt worth a lick. When she tries, her stitches are uneven and invariably have to be ripped out and she can't seem to do it without bleeding on the fabric because she is forever sticking her fingers with the needles. She can cook, she can clean, but the one thing her mother expects her to be able to do - because she comes from a long line of quilters - she just can't get her fingers to cooperate.

When Barbara is sent to Shipshewana from her Kentucky home to "help" her grandmother, she arrives expecting her grandmother to actually need help. Instead, she realizes that her mother sent her to HER mother so she could teach Barbara to quilt (since she wasn't having any success at it.) In the first week, her grandmother finally asks the question no one has ever asked her, "Do you want to learn to quilt?" The truth spills out, that Barbara would far rather be outside, working in the garden, than sitting inside working on a quilt, something she is NOT gifted for. Her grandfather finds her a job working for a local landscaper and she finds that creating quilt gardens feeds her heart. Could it be she's finally found something she's good at?

Melvin Bontrager's world crashed when a speeding truck hit the family buggy, killing both of his parents and leaving him seriously injured. When his sister's husband also dies, he takes on the care and support of his sister and his niece. He is slowly crawling out of the financial hole the accident left, but having to sell the family farm left him scrambling. His bishop (Barbara's grandfather) found him a place to live with a greenhouse on the property, so he started his own landscaping business. Grateful to his bishop, he agrees to take his granddaughter as an employee for the summer. At first, all he sees is how pretty she is, and how attracted to her he is, but then he finds that her garden designs make his flowers stand out. He sees her gift and falls hard, but how can they continue to work together or eventually be together when she makes no secret of the fact that she is going back to Kentucky?

As someone who has seen some of the beautiful flower quilts around Shipshewana, this story was a beautiful love story that envisioned how they might have come about. Barbara has always felt inadequate because the one thing her mother wanted her to be able to do completely escaped her. She's 24 and her 14-year-old sister is a better quilter. Melvin is deeply mired in guilt stemming from the accident that killed his parents. Even though it wasn't his fault, he always felt - as the buggy driver - that he should have done more to get out of the way. Working together, each find their strengths enhanced, and they find their hearts reaching toward one another as well.

Readers who enjoy Amish fiction or even just sweet romance will love The Flower Quilter. Be prepared for smiles, and even a few tears, as you read this one!

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

My description …
Ever feel like a square peg being forced into a round hole? That’s Barbara. Her mother is a quilter. Her grandmother is a quilter and by George — BARBARA IS GOING TO QUILT *AND* BE A GOOD QUILTER! Oh, her mother is not shouting but she might as well. Her parents send her to Indiana for the summer. Her task? Help her grandmother in her quilting shop. The Indiana community is different than her reserved Kentucky one. The difference? Understanding grandparents and a young Amish man (unmarried, of course) who has a landscaping business.

My review …
I was puzzled about the title and expected Barbara to make quilts that have flowers as the key element. I have a flower quilt hand-quilted by my mother that is a daisy pattern. There are all sorts of quilts that use flowers.

I felt for Barbara. Her mother was about as gentle as a heavy sledgehammer. Barbara tried; she really did. But her stitches were never even, etc. Fortunately, her grandmother and sweet grandfather understand after Barbara has been there for a while.

Enter Melvin Bontrager who has an unusual business for an Amish man. He does landscaping — and he is good at it. Melvin is single but he is responsible for his sister and her child. Now HOW Barbara figures into that, I’ll leave it to you to find out as you read the story.

I received a complimentary DRC (digital review copy) of The Flower Quilter via NetGalley from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 4 stars
Series: The Heart of the Amish, a multi-author series
Cover: Good. Engaging.
Pages: 259
Publish Date: 1 Sep 2023
#TheFlowerQuilter #NetGalley #Mindy Steele

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Barbour Publishing for sending me this FREE Copy last year as part of their Review Crew.

This was my first time reading a Novel by Mindy let alone in a Series but i have to say i really enjoyed this one more then i thought i would.

The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Barbara and Melvin were definately my favorites especially since i loved learning about their backgrounds growing up in Kentucky and Indiana.

The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Indiana while reading especially when the scenery was described.

Overall a Wonderful Book 1 in this Amish Fiction Series about The Heart of Amish Culture!! Can't wait to read more by Mindy in the future!!

[Ernestine Kaye Haggard · Rating 5 out of 5]

#Mindy Steele
#The Flower Quilter
#1 Book of The Heart Of Amish Series
Barbara Schwartz was born into a family of quilters in Kentucky.Melvin Bontrager is a landscaper who lives in Indiana .These two meet when Barbara goes stay the summer with her grandmother.What Does a quilter and landscaper have in common.you well never know unless you get the book.Love Trust,Faith, is what its about.Mindy Steele has out done her self another 5 star book

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the Flower Quilter very much. Barbara and Melvin’s story was a bit different from most Amish stories. They were from different districts with different restrictions. Barbara is not your traditional Amish woman, she would rather garden than quilt much to her mother’s dismay. Her parents send her to Indiana from Kentucky to help her grandparents. They hope she will learn to quilt from her grandmother. There she meets Melvin, who almost runs her over. With a little nudge/matchmaking from her grandparents, Barbara ends up helping Melvin with his landscaping business. There they both get to know each other better and uses Barbara’s designs that make quilt designs with flowers. I can’t wait for the next one. Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the E-ARC. This is my own opinion.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely story about two people who don't exactly fit into the traditional amish roles. Barbara's mother sends her from Kentucky off to Ohio thinking her grandmother needs help in her quilt shop. What her mother wants, is for her to learn how to quilt like herself, siblings and talented grandmother. Barbara hates it and has the bandaged fingers to show for it. On the first day she arrive Melvin Bontrager nearly runs her over with his buggy while crossing the street. This won't be the only time she runs into this fella. While Barbara confesses to her grandmother her dislike of sewing her grandfather comes up with a different plan. As a favor Melvin takes Barabara to one of his Landscaping jobs, what they both find out is how love blooms when you beleive in the creativity of life.

[Carolyn Vandine West · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Poor Barbara is pushed out of her beloved Kentucky to go help her grossdaddi and grossmammi for the summer. She finds after arriving that she will be working in the quilt shop and improving her quilting skills. Barbara does not like or have a talent for quilting. After pricking her fingers, bleeding and bandaging her poor fingertips, her grossdaddi takes pity on her. He finds her a job working with an Amish landscaper. That is her cup of tea, digging in the dirt and creating something beautiful with flowers. Rocky moments are had as Barbara and Melvin learn to create beautiful outdoor quilts. A wonderful story of past hurts healed and new beginnings. I think you will love this book as much as I do.
At the start of this book, the author says there are real flower quilt gardens in northern Indiana, near Goshen. We just moved to Kentucky from Indiana a few years back. But we are planning a trip there before we cut our roots there. Midwest Indiana is not that far away, but when you are raising children and working full time, it’s not the priority. Now we are retired, we can make that trip.
I received an ARC from Barbour publishing through NetGalley. This did not affect my review, totally my opinions. I look forward to the rest of this series.

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was totally involved with the characters of The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele from the first page. I could relate to trying to fit the mold expected by a parent and having to find my own voice. Each person has to find their own path in life and Barbara did just that.

Sent to help her grandparents, Barbara simply cannot quilt even with the help of her grossmammi, who is the best quilter. Her dawdi decides to step in and help her find her own voice. Thus enters Melvin. Melvin is a landscaper and is caring for his widowed sister and her daughter.

Barbara and Melvin have many heartaches and obstacles to overcome, including their dislike of each other. Will they be able to work together long enough to discover how much they have in common? And, how much they really care for each other?

A copy was provided for my review, but all opinions are my own.

[Doug Yonce · Rating 4 out of 5]

A classic Amish love story with all the character you expect and comfortable plot twists. Relationships that appear to impossible in the highly-structured communities somehow work out through the design of the author. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked how the author portrayed the various Amish towns and how they have a lot in common despite their differences. Barbara Schwartz had the guts to follow her heart, and the love of the outdoors. She felt free being a part of everything nature has to offer, including all the beautiful flowers and landscapes. Her heritage was something I enjoyed learning about. I loved going into quilt shops and picturing the fabric and quilt squares described in the book.. Fun!

I thought Melvin Bontrage was a stand-up guy. I respected the way he fought for his family and went after his goals. Despite how challenging it was, his devotion to his family kept him going.

Later, by accident, Melvin and Barbara run into each other (literary) Both agree they never want to see each other again. But you can’t help but bump into each other in a small community. Oh, when they meet the sparks fly and not in a good way.

The book is a happy story with close knit families, quilts, lovely scenery and flowers, mischievous twins, and hilarious antics. What’s not to love?. As you become engrossed in this intriguing story, you can't help but smile. If you love quilts like I do, you'll enjoy this story. If gardening is your passion, then this is also for you. This offers a relaxing and gratifying escape.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

[Debbie Earls · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another good book by Mindy Steele. It centers around Barbara and Melvin that are from different Amish districts but find themselves brought together by Barbara's grandparents. They share a love of flowers and create flower beds in quilt pattern designs. This book is about love, forgiveness and the power of prayer. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a sweet story. Barbara hates quilting but all the women in her family are known for it. On a visit to her grandparents her grandfather finds out that she would rather be gardening then quilting. So he gets her a job with the grumpy Melvin. Barbara shows Melvin how to make quilts out of flowers. Slowly they come to care for one another. HEA

[Kathleen Ryder · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLURB:
Barbara Schwartz was born into a family of quilters, but she would rather eat dirt than partake in another quilting frolic or sew on another binding. When her parents send her to Indiana to help her grandmother in her quilting shop, she finds herself amongst a very different community. It's only one summer and then she will be back in Kentucky where she belongs. Melvin Bontrager's world stopped six years ago when his parents died. Now when his only means of providing for his widowed sister and niece is threatened, Melvin finds his landscaping business disappearing too. When spring delivers a newcomer who is immune to his salty moods, Melvin does something he has never done before, accepts help. What blooms is the last thing Barbara ever expected, and everything Melvin could ever want.

MY REVIEW:
Oh, I loved this book! I am a massive fan of Amish romance novels, and Mindy is fast becoming a one-click for me.

The characters were relatable and likeable. The wholesome, sweet friendship and later romance, that bloomed between the two main characters was a delight to see unfold.

There was an underlying theme of perseverance, of never giving up, of remaining positive, which a lot of readers will relate to.

I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first quarter of the book was a little slow for me but once it got into the heart of the story, I really enjoyed it. I also really enjoyed learning more about the flower gardens that are in Indiana. I hope to check those out sometime soon. The characters of Sarah and Elli were my favorites!!

Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara and Melvin’s story in The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele, book one in The Heart of the Amish series, is an emotional, tug at your heart strings, sweet Amish romance that I could not put down. In this sweet, heartwarming story we witness faith, family, love and the power of a community as well as accepting that one’s talents cannot always conform to another’s expectations.

Barbara Schwartz loved playing in the trees, chasing animals, being in the barns and in the dirt while growing up, but her mother has her own expectations of what Barbara should be; that if to make beautiful quilts like all the women in her family. There is one major problem, Barbara can't sew and no matter how hard she tries, it becomes a nightmare; sticking her fingers with a needle, getting blood on the fabric, stitches that are way too far apart. Daydreaming while sewing doesn’t help, as she plans the gardens she would prefer to create than be inside during beautiful summer days. Her quilting challenges were amusing. Barbara wants to please her family, but with regard to quilting, she is all thumbs. Barbara managed to get herself into some comical situations. Frustrated, her mother sends Barbara to Indiana, from their home in Kentucky, to help her grandmother; little did she know how much this would change her life as she begins a journey of love and a new way of life.

Melvin Bontrager lost his parents and helps support his widowed sister and niece. He has a landscaping business, but the land he rents has been sold and believes the only way he can survive financially take care of everyone is to go work in a factory; cut off from the wonderful outdoors that he loves. In need of help this planting season, Melvin takes on Barbara to help with the landscaping, not expecting much from her. Working together and becoming friends, Barbara develops an idea of planting the flowers into quilt patterns which Melvin is willing to try. As the flowers come together they make the most beautiful displays and Melvin starts getting more and more requests for them. Unfortunately life interferes, providing circumstances that they are unable to control and that they must handle; with Barbara having to require to return home to Kentucky. This could tear them apart unless they can find a way to achieve the dreams they each have. Fortunately, G-d has more in store for them both.

Ms. Steele wrote a wonderfully sweet and moving story that is full of emotions. This delightful story exemplified and stressed that you don't have to conform to a mold in order to be a useful, productive person. Also, there is more than one way to quilt. The descriptions of the flower beds are outstanding and I enjoyed learning about quilt gardens and the Heritage Trail in Indiana. I highly recommend The Flower Quilter to other readers; an uplifting tale with quilt quibbles, beautiful blooms, troublesome twins, amusing misadventures, a bunch of red barns, and gorgeous gardens.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Flower Quilter” is a heartwarming Amish romance. The first line hints at the importance of family and faith in the Amish community, setting the tone for the story: “Next to Gott, family always came first.”

Barbara and Melvin are engaging characters, and their journey is filled with humor, emotion, spirituality, and romance. Barbara’s situation brought back memories of my youth when my grandmother urged me to sew like she did, but I had no interest. It was easy to connect with them and I rooted for them as they worked the land and strengthened their hearts, minds, and lives.

With a premise of following our passions and talents, this story is flavored with heart. I enjoyed the setting and characters, as well as learning more about quilting, gardening, and Amish living.

Faith, hope, and romance blossom in this unique flower quilting tale.

First Line: Next to Gott, family always came first.
Series: The Heart of the Amish book 1
Genre: Amish Fiction
Author: Mindy Steele
Page Count: 249

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.