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The Days of Redemption #3.5
Snowfall: A Days of Redemption Christmas Novella by Shelley Shepard Gray
Snowfall by Shelley Shepard Gray has descriptive copy which is not yet available from the Publisher.
Paperback
First published October 21, 2014
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About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
126 books2,313 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 112 reviews
January 6, 2024
SNOWFALL is book 3.5 in the Days of Redemption series. Here you will meet the Rhodes family. Martin Rhodes is a widower with six children and he is looking for someone to come and help him for one month while his regular care giver goes on vacation. Lovina Keim had agreed to watch the children, but after one day she knew she wasn’t cut out for this. She’s too old, has no patience anymore, and six kids is just too much for her. She tells Martin she will find someone to take her place.
Enter Ruth Stutzman! She’s never had children and has never cared for kids, but she is recently unemployed, needs a job, and is not afraid of six young children. Martin doesn’t have much hope for this nanny either but it’s Christmas and he owns a Christmas tree farm. He will lose too much money if he doesnt work. I love how Shelley made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.
SNOWFALL by Shelley Shepard Gray is a great addition to the new Days of Redemption series. You will laugh, maybe shed some tears, be swept up in a growing romance, but most of all you will be fascinated with one very unique Amish family; a family that sure looks perfect and ordinary to outsiders except sometimes the “simple life” is not so simple after all. I’m so happy I have the other books that I have missed. I truly enjoyed every minute of SNOWFALL and was sad that it ended, but I can’t wait to read more by Shelley Shepard Gray
Enter Ruth Stutzman! She’s never had children and has never cared for kids, but she is recently unemployed, needs a job, and is not afraid of six young children. Martin doesn’t have much hope for this nanny either but it’s Christmas and he owns a Christmas tree farm. He will lose too much money if he doesnt work. I love how Shelley made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.
SNOWFALL by Shelley Shepard Gray is a great addition to the new Days of Redemption series. You will laugh, maybe shed some tears, be swept up in a growing romance, but most of all you will be fascinated with one very unique Amish family; a family that sure looks perfect and ordinary to outsiders except sometimes the “simple life” is not so simple after all. I’m so happy I have the other books that I have missed. I truly enjoyed every minute of SNOWFALL and was sad that it ended, but I can’t wait to read more by Shelley Shepard Gray
November 6, 2021
I had read this book years ago in 2014. It has always been one of my favorites. This year I decided to read the audio version of it. This book is all I remembered it to be when I last read it. Full of the Christmas Spirit with the added touch of a Christmas Romance. I thought it was very well narrated and I'm glad I decided to read it again this year.
January 18, 2017
Snowfall was a fascinating and enjoyable read by Shelley Shepard Gray. My heart went out to Ruth Stutzman who had been shuffled around from one relative to another after losing her parents. When asked if she would care for Martin Rodes’ six unruly children she accepted the position. She needed to be able to care for her own expenses and she was up to the challenge of caring for the motherless children. Ruth had no experience with children but knew sadness from her own childhood. Ruth offered so much to the Rodes’ household. Will the children and Martin be able to accept the changes Ruth wanted in this sorrowful home?
Gray is a talented author with depth and heartfelt stories. The characters in Snowfall will wow readers as well as some of the characters being disappointing. Snowfall is filled with adventure, realistic community members, determination, healing, forgiveness, faith and love. I look forward to reading more delightful stories by Gray that are deep and thoughtful that will uplift and inspire.
I received a complimentary signed copy of Snowfall from the author as a winner from a Facebook chat with Shelley Shepard Gray. I was not required to write a review but have expressed my honest opinion of this delightful novella.
Gray is a talented author with depth and heartfelt stories. The characters in Snowfall will wow readers as well as some of the characters being disappointing. Snowfall is filled with adventure, realistic community members, determination, healing, forgiveness, faith and love. I look forward to reading more delightful stories by Gray that are deep and thoughtful that will uplift and inspire.
I received a complimentary signed copy of Snowfall from the author as a winner from a Facebook chat with Shelley Shepard Gray. I was not required to write a review but have expressed my honest opinion of this delightful novella.
August 15, 2014
I don't normally read novellas because I really like to sink my teeth into a novel with the more in-depth story line. Shelley Shepard Gray has changed my thoughts on this though with Snowfall. This book was such a delight to read!
There was enough of a story to sink my teeth into and the characters were fully developed and well rounded. I loved the sayings from the kids at the beginning of every chapter. Those were so sweet and sometimes funny. These along with the kids interactions in the book showcases Shelley's talent as an author. She can write a very believable scene with kids and grownups that will keep the reader wanting more. The story line was good and moved at a quick pace keeping my interest from beginning to end.
This book would be a perfect gift for anyone who loves Amish fiction, a sweet romance, and the holidays. It is the perfect book to read over a weekend!
There was enough of a story to sink my teeth into and the characters were fully developed and well rounded. I loved the sayings from the kids at the beginning of every chapter. Those were so sweet and sometimes funny. These along with the kids interactions in the book showcases Shelley's talent as an author. She can write a very believable scene with kids and grownups that will keep the reader wanting more. The story line was good and moved at a quick pace keeping my interest from beginning to end.
This book would be a perfect gift for anyone who loves Amish fiction, a sweet romance, and the holidays. It is the perfect book to read over a weekend!
July 24, 2015
I love Christmas stories and you’ll love traveling back to join The Days of Redemption characters. Snowfall centers around the Rhodes family…widower Martin and his six children. Martin is very busy this time of year with his Christmas tree farm and making sure his children are cared for.
You’ll remember Lovina Keim. She watched the children for one day. They were too much for her to handle she said. Ruth Stutzman had recently lost her job and Lovina talked her into replacing her as the Rhodes sitter.
I’m sure you’ll love the antics of the little children, the relationship they develop with Ruth, and the relationship Martin and Ruth develop as much as I did. Once again, Shelley, thank you for another wonderful read!!
You’ll remember Lovina Keim. She watched the children for one day. They were too much for her to handle she said. Ruth Stutzman had recently lost her job and Lovina talked her into replacing her as the Rhodes sitter.
I’m sure you’ll love the antics of the little children, the relationship they develop with Ruth, and the relationship Martin and Ruth develop as much as I did. Once again, Shelley, thank you for another wonderful read!!
December 13, 2014
Snowfall is one of the most delightful books that I've ever read. I often marvel at the talents of Shelley Shephard Gray and this book is no exception.
The recipe for success in this book is:
Start with two lonely adults
Add six rambunctious, loveable children
One precious pup
Add a dash of unexpected surprises
Sprinkle liberally with love, patience and laughter.
Mix all of the above together and Shelley has cooked up another novel meant to be savored.
The characters will warm your heart in what is sure to become a Christmas story that you will want to read for years to come.
It's a book that you can share with both older adults and young teens.
The recipe for success in this book is:
Start with two lonely adults
Add six rambunctious, loveable children
One precious pup
Add a dash of unexpected surprises
Sprinkle liberally with love, patience and laughter.
Mix all of the above together and Shelley has cooked up another novel meant to be savored.
The characters will warm your heart in what is sure to become a Christmas story that you will want to read for years to come.
It's a book that you can share with both older adults and young teens.
August 7, 2014
"Snowfall" was the absolute perfect book! It's a very simple story, really, about some people who need some change in their lives, and then the Lord moves in His gentle ways to give each person what they need.
This book reminded me of everything I love about being part of a family. Sometimes it's messy and inconvenient, but there are glimmers of joy, hope and comfort in the simplest of moments.
I highly recommend this book. It's like a warm hug!
This book reminded me of everything I love about being part of a family. Sometimes it's messy and inconvenient, but there are glimmers of joy, hope and comfort in the simplest of moments.
I highly recommend this book. It's like a warm hug!
February 7, 2017
This was a cute Novella to listen to while driving. Ruth took on the job of watching five active Amish children after losing her job. The whole time I couldn't wait for her to tell their Dad how she felt.
My only issue was that I didn't read the previous books in this series. I definitely plan to catch up.
My only issue was that I didn't read the previous books in this series. I definitely plan to catch up.
August 7, 2014
Another great book by Shelley Shepard Gray. I tried to read the book slowly so I could make the wonderful story last a long time. I wanted to savor its sweetness, but alas the story drew me in and I could not keep from finishing the book quickly. This story involves some very precocious and precious children at least in my eyes because I love children and fell in love with these children very quickly. This is a Christmas book that I will want to read over and over. Even though it is a Christmas book, it is one that can be enjoyed any time of the year. It was great to revisit the Keim family but also to meet a new family. I find myself wanting to read more of these families. I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for giving an honest Review.
August 19, 2014
Shelley Shepard Gray nailed another great book and love of mine - Christmas and Amish fiction wrapped up in one. Shelley knows how to draw you into the story and make you feel like you are there experiencing it all. From an Amish man selling Christmas trees, to his six sometimes "out of control" children, to someone new looking after those sometimes "out of control" children, to being loved, and to snowfall. So grab a cup of hot chocolate, find your favorite reading corner, and unwrap the storyline in Snowfall...one of those must reads for the Christmas season.
January 24, 2019
This was cute and fluffy - an adorable Christmas read - but I may have loved it more if I already knew the characters. Not that I think this doesn't stand well on it's own, it does, but I found Lovina and Annie's story a distraction from Ruth's, which was what I'd rather read.
August 29, 2014
There is something special about the first snow of the season. The beauty and serenity of white. That one moment in time when everything is still and quiet. The peacefulness that resides over the land and penetrates your mind. Each snowflake is unique and different just like Shelley's characters in Snowfall.
What a delightful story of family coming together, love and faithfulness, six rambunctious kids and one fluffy puppy. Even though some might be re-visiting some of the characters from the other books in the Days of Redemption series, this novella stands all on its own. Shelley always writes with a passion that shines through in all her characters. I totally loved how the kids had a voice in this story, so innocent in their intentions. Snowfall is all sugar and spice with a pinch of craziness that will have you laughing and smiling all the way to the end. I highly recommend this book!
What a delightful story of family coming together, love and faithfulness, six rambunctious kids and one fluffy puppy. Even though some might be re-visiting some of the characters from the other books in the Days of Redemption series, this novella stands all on its own. Shelley always writes with a passion that shines through in all her characters. I totally loved how the kids had a voice in this story, so innocent in their intentions. Snowfall is all sugar and spice with a pinch of craziness that will have you laughing and smiling all the way to the end. I highly recommend this book!
October 20, 2014
A Heart Tugging Christmas Read!
I have read many of author Shelley Shepard Gray’s Amish fiction novels. I have loved them all.
Snowfall is a novella that will warm you from head to toe. Kindness, Love, Trust, Faith, and Family oozes from this story. I found myself numerous times tearing up throughout the pages. I was deeply touched by this moving novella.
By the time I finished Snowfall I wanted to be part of the Rhodes family in the worst way. The children will melt your heart and you will have a strong urge to grab them and hug them tight.
Where does Ruth Stutzman belong? This dear, dear, young lady has been through so much. She has no idea what it feels like to be truly loved and wanted. Will she ever have the security and love of a real true family?
I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of Snowfall and treat yourself to a wonderful heartwarming read that will stay with you long after you read the last page.
I have read many of author Shelley Shepard Gray’s Amish fiction novels. I have loved them all.
Snowfall is a novella that will warm you from head to toe. Kindness, Love, Trust, Faith, and Family oozes from this story. I found myself numerous times tearing up throughout the pages. I was deeply touched by this moving novella.
By the time I finished Snowfall I wanted to be part of the Rhodes family in the worst way. The children will melt your heart and you will have a strong urge to grab them and hug them tight.
Where does Ruth Stutzman belong? This dear, dear, young lady has been through so much. She has no idea what it feels like to be truly loved and wanted. Will she ever have the security and love of a real true family?
I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of Snowfall and treat yourself to a wonderful heartwarming read that will stay with you long after you read the last page.
August 8, 2014
As we get reacquainted with some of the familiar characters from the Days of Redemption series, we are also introduced to some new likable characters. When Lovina Keim suggests that Ruth Stutzman take over for her as 'nanny' to widower Martin Rhodes' six rambunctious children, she has more than babysitting in mind. The children are not so accepting of Ruth at first but she wins them, and Martin, over. Ruth, an only child who was orphaned at an early age, was shuffled from family member to family member, no one seeming to want to keep her longer than the required time. So when Ruth is thrust into a family of seven, the fun begins! We also are reunited with some of the other 'Redemption' characters and each discovers something new about themselves. A warm, funny, lovely Christmas story as only Shelley Shepard Gray can tell.
August 7, 2014
I stayed up late in the night reading this story. I love Shelley Shepard Gray's books and this one is no exception. Filled with loveable characters and a wonderful storyline, this book pulls the reader in on page one. If you are looking for a book filled with family and faith, than this book is for you. I would recommend this book for all ages.
January 29, 2016
Light reading and fun !
December 13, 2014
Wonderfully written book by Shelley Shepard Gray. An unexpected love between Ruth and Martin. A love at Christmas time.
November 23, 2019
This Amish Christmas novella was an enjoyable read. Ruth Stutzman has lost her job as a caregiver at a nursing home. Widower, Martin Rhodes, is overwhelmed with his Christmas tree farm and taking care of his six kids who known for their misbehavior. Ruth, with her sweet temperament, takes on the job of caring for them. But will she be able to handle 6 kids from 8 to 2 with the chicken pox?
Watching the children and even their dog, Frank, learn to respond to Ruth's love and caring was very enjoyable. She made memories with them as they read books, made Christmas cards, played in the snow, and cared for them while they were sick. The children learned to love Ruth and perhaps there was a spot in Martin's heart too for a new bride.
Watching the children and even their dog, Frank, learn to respond to Ruth's love and caring was very enjoyable. She made memories with them as they read books, made Christmas cards, played in the snow, and cared for them while they were sick. The children learned to love Ruth and perhaps there was a spot in Martin's heart too for a new bride.
December 27, 2024
I was really close to giving this 5 stars. It was the perfect Christmas read at this point in my life. I always love this author’s writing. Her characters are so real and the plot is many times unexpected. This one may have been a bit expected but the sub-plot was just as precious and very unexpected.
Note: My 5 star ratings are reserved for books that are life-changing and/or will be with me for years to come.
Note: My 5 star ratings are reserved for books that are life-changing and/or will be with me for years to come.
December 15, 2019
Short and sweet
November 6, 2014
Description
New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray spins a beautiful holiday tale of finding love in unexpected places.
Twenty-year old Ruth Stutzman is a wonderful caregiver—but she has no experience with kinner. Laid off from her job at a retirement home due to budget cuts, she’s relieved to find work—even if it means temporarily watching widower Martin Rodes’ brood of six!
Martin has done the best he can since his wife’s passing, but he and the children need help. Their house, once full of laughter and light, has been darkened by sadness. Soon after Ruth arrives, the children are drawn to her warmth and gentleness, and so is Martin, even though he feels it’s wrong. But the harder he tries to ignore her, the deeper he begins to care for this attractive young woman who has brought joy back into his children’s lives . . . and his own.
Each passing day brings the Rodes closer to Ruth . . . and closer to Christmas, when she will have to say goodbye. Ruth, too, cannot deny the bond she feels with the children—and with Martin. When her old job becomes available again, Ruth finds herself torn. How can she stay with the Rhodes? Yet how can she go?
My Review
This book is a GREAT Christmas story. It is about Martin Rhodes and his 6 kinner (children). Martin is a widower and it is Christmas time and he works at a Christmas Tree Farm. He has to find a housekeeper and babysitter for his 6 kinner. These kinner are not the easiest ones to take care of either. As the book starts, Lovina Keim, who is in her 60’s is the housekeeper and babysitter, but she has had it because the children will not do what she says. So, she up and quits.
Lovina does find them another person, Ruth Stutzman. Ruth has had a rough childhood, losing both of her parents at an early age. So, Ruth takes care of the children and of Martin, too. In the meantime, Martin cannot believe how well behaved his kids are around Ruth. They love her in no time at all. In the meantime, the kinner get chicken pox, what a dreaded disease. I remember those things. Yes, all 6 have it. So, Martin asks Ruth to move in and Ruth is not so sure about that. But, she finally decides that the kinner need her and Martin does as well. In the meantime, Martin starts to fall for her. This is all I am going to say, because I don’t want to ruin the story for you. I would suggest this book to all my friends and family.
Thank you, Shelley for giving us such a GREAT book to read as Christmas draws near. I loved this story and I know you will also.
New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray spins a beautiful holiday tale of finding love in unexpected places.
Twenty-year old Ruth Stutzman is a wonderful caregiver—but she has no experience with kinner. Laid off from her job at a retirement home due to budget cuts, she’s relieved to find work—even if it means temporarily watching widower Martin Rodes’ brood of six!
Martin has done the best he can since his wife’s passing, but he and the children need help. Their house, once full of laughter and light, has been darkened by sadness. Soon after Ruth arrives, the children are drawn to her warmth and gentleness, and so is Martin, even though he feels it’s wrong. But the harder he tries to ignore her, the deeper he begins to care for this attractive young woman who has brought joy back into his children’s lives . . . and his own.
Each passing day brings the Rodes closer to Ruth . . . and closer to Christmas, when she will have to say goodbye. Ruth, too, cannot deny the bond she feels with the children—and with Martin. When her old job becomes available again, Ruth finds herself torn. How can she stay with the Rhodes? Yet how can she go?
My Review
This book is a GREAT Christmas story. It is about Martin Rhodes and his 6 kinner (children). Martin is a widower and it is Christmas time and he works at a Christmas Tree Farm. He has to find a housekeeper and babysitter for his 6 kinner. These kinner are not the easiest ones to take care of either. As the book starts, Lovina Keim, who is in her 60’s is the housekeeper and babysitter, but she has had it because the children will not do what she says. So, she up and quits.
Lovina does find them another person, Ruth Stutzman. Ruth has had a rough childhood, losing both of her parents at an early age. So, Ruth takes care of the children and of Martin, too. In the meantime, Martin cannot believe how well behaved his kids are around Ruth. They love her in no time at all. In the meantime, the kinner get chicken pox, what a dreaded disease. I remember those things. Yes, all 6 have it. So, Martin asks Ruth to move in and Ruth is not so sure about that. But, she finally decides that the kinner need her and Martin does as well. In the meantime, Martin starts to fall for her. This is all I am going to say, because I don’t want to ruin the story for you. I would suggest this book to all my friends and family.
Thank you, Shelley for giving us such a GREAT book to read as Christmas draws near. I loved this story and I know you will also.
November 12, 2014
Snowfall
Shelley Shepard Gray
Book Summary: Twenty-year old Ruth Stutzman is a wonderful caregiver—but she has no experience with kinner. Laid off from her job at a retirement home due to budget cuts, she’s relieved to find work—even if it means temporarily watching widower Martin Rodes’ brood of six! Martin has done the best he can since his wife’s passing, but he and the children need help. Their house, once full of laughter and light, has been darkened by sadness. Soon after Ruth arrives, the children are drawn to her warmth and gentleness, and so is Martin, even though he feels it’s wrong. But the harder he tries to ignore her, the deeper he begins to care for this attractive young woman who has brought joy back into his children’s lives . . . and his own. Each passing day brings the Rodes closer to Ruth . . . and closer to Christmas, when she will have to say goodbye. Ruth, too, cannot deny the bond she feels with the children—and with Martin. When her old job becomes available again, Ruth finds herself torn. How can she stay with the Rodes? Yet how can she go?
Review: I loved all the children. The storyline while part of a series is easy to jump into even if you have not read the other books. Ms. Gray even saved some secrets for when I go back and read the other books. I love the Christmas theme. Christmas is the best time of year. I can read about it any time of the year. Ruth was very special, someone who had heartache and now was getting to turn heartache for others into great joy. That is a theme I enjoy reading about. The Keim family was great to visit and read about people from previous books. It was interesting to read a book about the New Order Amish. I like simplicity of the Amish and their tremendous relationships that are highly valued. It was an enjoyable experience throughout the book. This will be a story I will revisit in the future.
I would like to thank Edelweiss Above the Treeline and Avon Inspire for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Shelley Shepard Gray
Book Summary: Twenty-year old Ruth Stutzman is a wonderful caregiver—but she has no experience with kinner. Laid off from her job at a retirement home due to budget cuts, she’s relieved to find work—even if it means temporarily watching widower Martin Rodes’ brood of six! Martin has done the best he can since his wife’s passing, but he and the children need help. Their house, once full of laughter and light, has been darkened by sadness. Soon after Ruth arrives, the children are drawn to her warmth and gentleness, and so is Martin, even though he feels it’s wrong. But the harder he tries to ignore her, the deeper he begins to care for this attractive young woman who has brought joy back into his children’s lives . . . and his own. Each passing day brings the Rodes closer to Ruth . . . and closer to Christmas, when she will have to say goodbye. Ruth, too, cannot deny the bond she feels with the children—and with Martin. When her old job becomes available again, Ruth finds herself torn. How can she stay with the Rodes? Yet how can she go?
Review: I loved all the children. The storyline while part of a series is easy to jump into even if you have not read the other books. Ms. Gray even saved some secrets for when I go back and read the other books. I love the Christmas theme. Christmas is the best time of year. I can read about it any time of the year. Ruth was very special, someone who had heartache and now was getting to turn heartache for others into great joy. That is a theme I enjoy reading about. The Keim family was great to visit and read about people from previous books. It was interesting to read a book about the New Order Amish. I like simplicity of the Amish and their tremendous relationships that are highly valued. It was an enjoyable experience throughout the book. This will be a story I will revisit in the future.
I would like to thank Edelweiss Above the Treeline and Avon Inspire for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
July 28, 2015
This is the first book of Shelley's that I have read and I loved it! Even though its the 4th in the series, I had no trouble reading it as a stand alone and just jumped right in.
Even though I am reading this Christmas novella in July, its a sweet read that will bring joy and warmth to your heart.
My heart broke for Ruth Stutzman as she was searching for a sense of belonging to a family.
She had a strong and quiet faith and a generally joyous heart for all that she had been through in her young life. Being passed around from relative to relative and seen as a responsibility for family members sure could wear on anyone's mind and heart but Ruth remained strong.
Martin Rhodes is a hard working widower with six sweet and rambunctious little ones. I liked his quiet simple faith and his wanting to trust,heal and love again.
Ruth and Martin are drawn together when Ruth agrees to fill in as the Rhodes babysitter over the Christmas holidays. We also read about the Keim family, especially Lovina who seems to have her own problems and loves to play matchmaker too.
This book is about a New Order Amish family, so it took some getting used to when I read about all the things they did that more conservative Amish families dont do.
A fun and delightful read that will warm your heart!
Even though I am reading this Christmas novella in July, its a sweet read that will bring joy and warmth to your heart.
My heart broke for Ruth Stutzman as she was searching for a sense of belonging to a family.
She had a strong and quiet faith and a generally joyous heart for all that she had been through in her young life. Being passed around from relative to relative and seen as a responsibility for family members sure could wear on anyone's mind and heart but Ruth remained strong.
Martin Rhodes is a hard working widower with six sweet and rambunctious little ones. I liked his quiet simple faith and his wanting to trust,heal and love again.
Ruth and Martin are drawn together when Ruth agrees to fill in as the Rhodes babysitter over the Christmas holidays. We also read about the Keim family, especially Lovina who seems to have her own problems and loves to play matchmaker too.
This book is about a New Order Amish family, so it took some getting used to when I read about all the things they did that more conservative Amish families dont do.
A fun and delightful read that will warm your heart!
October 21, 2014
Snowfall was such a great book that I sat down and read it all at once, could not put it down.
My heart really broke for Ruth, such a wonderful young woman, and instead of being bitter about her lot in life, she moved with sparkle. Yes she hurt and longed, but her heart was not bitter.
Then we have Martin, a very hard working Amish man who is a widower left with six children under the age of ten. Had to chuckle when the book opened and one of our old friends, Lovinia babysitting for the children.
Yes we are back in Sugarcreek with are dear friends, and the awesome Amish community here. We reunite with most of our friends here, and you’re in for some good surprises! Made me think of Mary Poppins, only there isn’t any magic, or is there?
There is such a great faith in God here, and loved how they all seemed to face adversity, and yet were there for one another. Is it by chance that Ruth is in Lovinia’s path that day? I think not.
Another great page turner by Shelley Shepard Gray and welcome back to Ohio, and life in this Community.
I received this book through Edelweiss and the Publisher Avon Inspire, and was not required to give a positive review.
My heart really broke for Ruth, such a wonderful young woman, and instead of being bitter about her lot in life, she moved with sparkle. Yes she hurt and longed, but her heart was not bitter.
Then we have Martin, a very hard working Amish man who is a widower left with six children under the age of ten. Had to chuckle when the book opened and one of our old friends, Lovinia babysitting for the children.
Yes we are back in Sugarcreek with are dear friends, and the awesome Amish community here. We reunite with most of our friends here, and you’re in for some good surprises! Made me think of Mary Poppins, only there isn’t any magic, or is there?
There is such a great faith in God here, and loved how they all seemed to face adversity, and yet were there for one another. Is it by chance that Ruth is in Lovinia’s path that day? I think not.
Another great page turner by Shelley Shepard Gray and welcome back to Ohio, and life in this Community.
I received this book through Edelweiss and the Publisher Avon Inspire, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 23, 2014
Sometimes you can judge a book by its cover. From the cover of the book (look at it - its beautiful!), to the last page this book has everything you are looking for: Christmas, family, love & a fantastic story.
Prayer is a terrific force of comfort, & combined with faith can bring forth wonderful results. Two separate people, pray for two different things in life, & as a result have their prayers answered in a way neither expect. From the moment that they first meet there is an immediate attraction / connection, & I smiled one Martin first sees Ruth. I thought it was classic.
I think this is a wonderful closing to the " Days of Redemption " series, but I wouldn't be opposed to a new series on Ruth, Martin & the rowdy adorable children.
This is truly a heart warming, page turning story & I do believe it is a new favorite!!
Prayer is a terrific force of comfort, & combined with faith can bring forth wonderful results. Two separate people, pray for two different things in life, & as a result have their prayers answered in a way neither expect. From the moment that they first meet there is an immediate attraction / connection, & I smiled one Martin first sees Ruth. I thought it was classic.
I think this is a wonderful closing to the " Days of Redemption " series, but I wouldn't be opposed to a new series on Ruth, Martin & the rowdy adorable children.
This is truly a heart warming, page turning story & I do believe it is a new favorite!!
January 6, 2015
This book made me giggle - often. Loved the humor and the story. Ruth Stoltzfus' parents died when she was very young so she spent the rest of her life being passed from relative to relative, spending just one year with each. She's never had a real family Christmas where she felt like an actual part of the family. When she's laid off from her job at the local retirement home, she takes a position at the other end of the age spectrum as a nanny to Martin Rhodes' six children. She's never cared for a child before, let alone six of them and these children have already run off every other nanny with their out-of-control behavior. Martin doesn't have high hopes for this nanny either but it's Christmas and he owns a Christmas tree farm. He has to work. What follows is at times hilarious, but always fun.
January 1, 2015
All the characters is this book have their share of problems, but to me this made them easier to relate to. The quotes from the Rhodes children(Martin's kids) that opened each chapter made me smile and helped me learn more about each child's individual personality. I loved watching the relationships or friendships develop between all the characters. My favorite to watch were Lovina/Annie(Viola's friend) and Martin/Ruth. Viola is one of Lovina's granddaughters who is a twin. I felt bad when all the Rhodes children got the chicken pox during their Christmas break from school. What a bummer, I was happy when Martin and Ruth agreed that the children could bundle up to go outside and enjoy the first snowfall of the season. Yahoo!Frehlicher Grischtdaag!(Merry Christmas in PA Dutch)
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January 3, 2015Snowfall, (A Days of Redemption Christmas Novella), By: Shelley Shepard Gray
This is such a wonderful story. It captured my from the start. I read this book in a day, it was that good! I love the characters in this story and the roles that they play in the story. A story of compassion, hope, faith and the desire to belong. To be able to experience the simple things in life that so many take for granted.
Be sure to get your copy today. Curl up in your favorite reading chair, kick back and enjoy this heart felt book. 5+Stars
This is such a wonderful story. It captured my from the start. I read this book in a day, it was that good! I love the characters in this story and the roles that they play in the story. A story of compassion, hope, faith and the desire to belong. To be able to experience the simple things in life that so many take for granted.
Be sure to get your copy today. Curl up in your favorite reading chair, kick back and enjoy this heart felt book. 5+Stars
December 3, 2014
After reading Snowfall by Shelley Shepard Gray I am reminded that the Christmas season isn't always joyful to everyone. We may let painful or sad memories invade our minds and hearts. Snowfall is a wonderful book to read to lift up spirits by looking into the lives in this book revealing sadness that can change into gladness. I highly recommend this Christmas novella.
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