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Amish of Seymour County #1
Patchwork Dreams
Ever since returning from her rumspringa pregnant and unwed, Becky Troyer has been a pariah in her Amish community in Missouri. Even after the young mother confesses her sin and rejoins the church, her peers continue to shun her, and she despairs the unlikelihood of marrying for love. It seems that her only hope is to eventually marry a widower with a family of his own.
Becky's world changes when Jacob Miller arrives at her family's farm with the understanding that he will help with chores during the summer and then return to Pennsylvania. What Jacob does not know is that his father, who disapproves of Jacob's sweetheart, Susie, sent him away as part of a plan to introduce new blood into the Amish community of Seymour. In addition to his work around the farm, Jacob undertakes the task of cheering up the lovely yet listless Becky, inviting her to various youth gatherings and offering her the only unconditional friendship she's known.
As their relationship grows, the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Will Becky and Jacob overcome their insecurities and self–doubts so that their love can grow, or will Jacob keep his pledge to Susie and turn his back on Becky, as so many others have done?
Becky's world changes when Jacob Miller arrives at her family's farm with the understanding that he will help with chores during the summer and then return to Pennsylvania. What Jacob does not know is that his father, who disapproves of Jacob's sweetheart, Susie, sent him away as part of a plan to introduce new blood into the Amish community of Seymour. In addition to his work around the farm, Jacob undertakes the task of cheering up the lovely yet listless Becky, inviting her to various youth gatherings and offering her the only unconditional friendship she's known.
As their relationship grows, the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Will Becky and Jacob overcome their insecurities and self–doubts so that their love can grow, or will Jacob keep his pledge to Susie and turn his back on Becky, as so many others have done?
216 pages, ebook
First published April 1, 2010
45 people are currently reading
1673 people want to read
About the author
Laura V. Hilton
39 books654 followersAward winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.
Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.
She has self-published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens.
Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer and blogs for Putting on the New and Seriously Write.
Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.
She has self-published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens.
Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer and blogs for Putting on the New and Seriously Write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
January 3, 2013
ugh...between her imagining he was saying stuff he wasn't and him jumping to conclusions it was just a little too much for me.
February 13, 2011
This is the first book of Laura’s that I have had the privilege of reading. I was interested to read Patchwork Dreams, because one of the Amish characters has a child out of wedlock. I have read many books about the Amish and their rumspringa, but I don’t recall any of them dealing with such a sensitive topic. I was curious to see how this storyline would play out considering the Amish ban and their strict religious rules.
The story begins with Jacob Miller angry at his father for sending him away from his home and his sweetheart Susie, to work for a distant cousin he’s never met. His father doesn’t approve of Susie’s beliefs or her love of the (forbidden) guitar and works quickly to separate the two. Jacob is surprised at himself and caught off guard when he arrives in Seymour, Missouri and is quickly drawn to Becky, a young woman who has a baby daughter.
Becky Troyer doesn’t trust men – especially after being used, left alone and ashamed. One night of her rumspringa changed her life forever, but her baby daughter Emma is one unexpected change she doesn’t regret. While Jacob has moments of homesickness and misses his Susie, he also finds himself comparing her to Becky and realizing they are as different as night and day. Jacob struggles with both guilt and excitement at his feelings for Becky that seem to grow stronger the more time he spends around her. Although Becky avoids Jacob’s overtures at first and tries not to encourage his interest in her, her heart isn’t agreeing with her head. Terrified that she’ll be forced to marry a man she doesn’t love, Becky begins to hope that Jacob’s interest in her isn’t just meaningless flirtation.
Patchwork Dreams is a sweet love story that proves second chances are possible. The back of the book includes a glossary of Amish terms, which is very helpful if you are new to Amish fiction. Those who enjoy this genre will want to watch for the release of this book in April 2011.
To learn more about the author visit: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com
The story begins with Jacob Miller angry at his father for sending him away from his home and his sweetheart Susie, to work for a distant cousin he’s never met. His father doesn’t approve of Susie’s beliefs or her love of the (forbidden) guitar and works quickly to separate the two. Jacob is surprised at himself and caught off guard when he arrives in Seymour, Missouri and is quickly drawn to Becky, a young woman who has a baby daughter.
Becky Troyer doesn’t trust men – especially after being used, left alone and ashamed. One night of her rumspringa changed her life forever, but her baby daughter Emma is one unexpected change she doesn’t regret. While Jacob has moments of homesickness and misses his Susie, he also finds himself comparing her to Becky and realizing they are as different as night and day. Jacob struggles with both guilt and excitement at his feelings for Becky that seem to grow stronger the more time he spends around her. Although Becky avoids Jacob’s overtures at first and tries not to encourage his interest in her, her heart isn’t agreeing with her head. Terrified that she’ll be forced to marry a man she doesn’t love, Becky begins to hope that Jacob’s interest in her isn’t just meaningless flirtation.
Patchwork Dreams is a sweet love story that proves second chances are possible. The back of the book includes a glossary of Amish terms, which is very helpful if you are new to Amish fiction. Those who enjoy this genre will want to watch for the release of this book in April 2011.
To learn more about the author visit: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com
September 5, 2011
I found a new favourite Amish author! I think this is her debut Amish story and there's a sneak preview of the next in the series which has me really excited. I'd been experiencing a bit of an Amish drought lately and was just so excited to get into one again.
Hilton reeled me in from the very first page and there was enough emotional tension to keep me turning pages until the very end. The developing friendship between Becky and Jacob defines the story and I loved how Hilton drew them together and then apart and back together again. And though she deals with serious topics that had me in raging hissy fits on more than one occasion during the read, she has peppered Patchwork Dreams with some surprising and delightful humour. A winning combination in my books.
Becky is in such a hard place and so unwilling to trust -- resigned to not having a life beyond the walls of her family's home. At times I wanted to shake her and tell her to smarten up because some of her views were so skewed. Thank goodness Jacob had an unending source of patience and his determination to help Becky, including his teasing flirtations were so much fun to read.
How their friendship blossomed into romance and the angst that embroiled them until the very end made for a fascinating and satisfying read. I'll definitely be watching out for A Harvest of Hearts when it comes out in September.
Hilton reeled me in from the very first page and there was enough emotional tension to keep me turning pages until the very end. The developing friendship between Becky and Jacob defines the story and I loved how Hilton drew them together and then apart and back together again. And though she deals with serious topics that had me in raging hissy fits on more than one occasion during the read, she has peppered Patchwork Dreams with some surprising and delightful humour. A winning combination in my books.
Becky is in such a hard place and so unwilling to trust -- resigned to not having a life beyond the walls of her family's home. At times I wanted to shake her and tell her to smarten up because some of her views were so skewed. Thank goodness Jacob had an unending source of patience and his determination to help Becky, including his teasing flirtations were so much fun to read.
How their friendship blossomed into romance and the angst that embroiled them until the very end made for a fascinating and satisfying read. I'll definitely be watching out for A Harvest of Hearts when it comes out in September.
April 27, 2011
About The Author
Laura Hilton graduated with a business degree from Ozarka Technical College in Melbourne, Arkansas. A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, she is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with more than a thousand reviews published on the Web. Prior to Patchwork Dreams and A Harvest of Hearts, books one and two in her Amish of Seymour series with Whitaker House, she published two novels with Treble Heart Books, Hot Chocolate and Shadows of the Past, as well as several devotionals. Laura and her husband, Steve, have five children, whom Laura homeschools. The family makes their home in Arkansas. To learn more about Laura, read her reviews, and find out about her upcoming releases, readers may visit her blog at http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/.
Book Blurb from the Publisher
Ever since returning from her rumspringa pregnant and unwed, Becky Troyer has been a pariah in her Amish community in Missouri. Even after the young mother confesses her sin and rejoins the church, her peers continue to shun her, and she despairs the unlikelihood of marrying for love. It seems that her only hope is to eventually marry a widower with a family of his own.
Becky's world changes when Jacob Miller arrives at her family's farm with the understanding that he will help with chores during the summer and then return to Pennsylvania. What Jacob does not know is that his father, who disapproves of Jacob's sweetheart, Susie, sent him away as part of a plan to introduce new blood into the Amish community of Seymour. In addition to his work around the farm, Jacob undertakes the task of cheering up the lovely yet listless Becky, inviting her to various youth gatherings and offering her the only unconditional friendship she's known.
As their relationship grows, the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Will Becky and Jacob overcome their insecurities and self-doubts so that their love can grow, or will Jacob keep his pledge to Susie and turn his back on Becky, as so many others have done?
MY REVIEW
This is a story of mainly Jacob Miller and Becky Troyer, two young people from Amish communities in different states. Jacob’s father sends him to a cousin who lives in a rural Missouri town to hopefully change his mind about his sweetheart in Pennsylvania. That’s the one thing Jacob’s daed forgot to tell him though, Jacob though he was only moving to help out his cousin on the farm. As for Becky, she ends up with a boppli and single because of her wild rumspringa time. Upon Jacob’s arrival at their farm, there was a noticeable attraction between the two of them from the beginning. But Becky knew when Jacob found out about her secret, he would never come near her, and with Jacob, there was someone back home named Susie. Jacob noticed that Becky never smiled, and after he found out about her daughter, he knew something bad had happened, so he decided to make it his priority to be her friend and eventually bring her smile back.
Even though Becky has been before her church and confessed her sins, being shunned for 6 weeks because of them, can she overcome her past and trust another man into her live to love and trust?
And what about Jacob’s sweetheart Susie back home, they are to me married during the Amish marriage season in December. Will their time away from each other prove their forever love, or will his attraction to Becky grow stronger, maybe even as far as loving her?
I loved this book from Laura Hilton. In her writing this, she shows that being Amish is not always a perfect life. During the rumspringa years, some young people make bad decisions that will affect the rest of their lives. In most of the Amish books I have read, the daed was always the harsh type, almost as far as being just mean. It was clear they loved their children, but they tried to keep the ‘head of the house’ rule strict I guess. But in Patchwork Dreams this was different. I really liked the attitude of Becky’s parents Daniel and Leah. Daniel wasn’t afraid to hug his girls anywhere, letting them know his love for them. He didn’t agree with the Bishop on all things concerning Becky. (Don’t want to tell you all so you can read and find out for yourself.) Becky’s mamm even suggested the family would move to another Amish community to keep Becky from being forced to hurtful situations. This was just really heartwarming to me, to see her parents love and support for her. And the way they loved her daughter Emma, well the heartwarming love was easy to feel as you read the story.
If you love Amish, this is a must read! If you don’t know, or haven’t read any Amish books, then this would be a great start for you! I can’t wait for the second book in this series to be out. The series is ‘The Amish of Seymour’ and you can look for it, I think around fall of 2011.
A huge THANK YOU to Laura Hilton for providing me a copy of this book to read. I love the way Laura tells the story, and the characters she creates, making them real life. I didn’t want the book to end!
The book review and the opinions are totally mine. It was my honor to write the review for Laura!
November 6, 2021
Great Amish love story. Very informative on Amish culture and dialect.
March 18, 2019
PATCHWORK DREAMS by Laura V. Hilton is the first book in the Amish of Seymour County series. It’s the story of Becky Troyer and Jacob Miller.
After becoming pregnant during her rumschpringe, Becky is the object of whispers, cruel remarks and remains in the shadows even after confessing her sins and joining the church. If not for the love for her daughter, Emma, the lone friendship of Annie and the family that stuck by her, she truly is alone. Unless matched off to some older widower with many children needing tended to, she is sure she is to remain unmarried.
Jacob Miller was sent by his father to Seymour to help a distant cousin’s family with summer chores only to find out he’s been sent as part of a man swap to bring new bloodlines to the community. His father hoped that the separation from his current girlfriend would open his eyes to reality before he makes a mistake that may follow him for a lifetime. He is drawn to Bex, his nickname for Becky, and determined that while he’s there he will get her to smile.
Daniel, Becky’s Dad, starts teaching Jacob how to be a blacksmith and finds him to be a fast learner. Although at first Jacob found it to be hard, dirty work, he soon finds that he enjoyed it and could see himself supporting a family doing it back home. He also starts to rethink his relationship with Susie, his girlfriend back home. He has no desire to leave the church as she has mentioned doing and their thoughts on life are so different. A break in their relationship is in order – evidently on both sides from her letter.
Jacob tries to get Becky out to singings and socials so that she can find a nice man to court her. However, Becky is fearful of men and the least bit of affection or teasing sends her into a tail spin and withdrawal. It also seems that others aren’t as forthright with forgiveness and hold her past against her. How will it affect everyone when the real truth comes out? Can his closeness and his never giving up trying bring her out of her shell – especially when she sees how fond he is of Emma – and give him that smile? When she does, will her smile win Jacob’s heart? Can Jacob prove to Bex how special she is, how fortunate anyone is to have her in their life and that she is definitely worthy – of happiness, love, and having a family? Will that someone be Jacob?
Laura V. Hilton tells an amazing story within the pages of PATCHWORK DREAMS. It’s a story of love – love of family that will stick by you regardless, love of a couple trying to find their way through past mistakes for a future together, and most of all the love of God. In this story, we not only read a wonderful Amish story, but we learn that all people, Amish or not, have flaws, problems and dreams. It’s when we put our lives in God’s hands that we can come to our full potential and fulfill his desire for us.
PATCHWORK DREAMS can definitely be read as a standalone, but I know you will be looking for the other books in this series once you read this one. I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a well-written story, the Amish genre, a Christian romance or just a well-rounded great book.
After becoming pregnant during her rumschpringe, Becky is the object of whispers, cruel remarks and remains in the shadows even after confessing her sins and joining the church. If not for the love for her daughter, Emma, the lone friendship of Annie and the family that stuck by her, she truly is alone. Unless matched off to some older widower with many children needing tended to, she is sure she is to remain unmarried.
Jacob Miller was sent by his father to Seymour to help a distant cousin’s family with summer chores only to find out he’s been sent as part of a man swap to bring new bloodlines to the community. His father hoped that the separation from his current girlfriend would open his eyes to reality before he makes a mistake that may follow him for a lifetime. He is drawn to Bex, his nickname for Becky, and determined that while he’s there he will get her to smile.
Daniel, Becky’s Dad, starts teaching Jacob how to be a blacksmith and finds him to be a fast learner. Although at first Jacob found it to be hard, dirty work, he soon finds that he enjoyed it and could see himself supporting a family doing it back home. He also starts to rethink his relationship with Susie, his girlfriend back home. He has no desire to leave the church as she has mentioned doing and their thoughts on life are so different. A break in their relationship is in order – evidently on both sides from her letter.
Jacob tries to get Becky out to singings and socials so that she can find a nice man to court her. However, Becky is fearful of men and the least bit of affection or teasing sends her into a tail spin and withdrawal. It also seems that others aren’t as forthright with forgiveness and hold her past against her. How will it affect everyone when the real truth comes out? Can his closeness and his never giving up trying bring her out of her shell – especially when she sees how fond he is of Emma – and give him that smile? When she does, will her smile win Jacob’s heart? Can Jacob prove to Bex how special she is, how fortunate anyone is to have her in their life and that she is definitely worthy – of happiness, love, and having a family? Will that someone be Jacob?
Laura V. Hilton tells an amazing story within the pages of PATCHWORK DREAMS. It’s a story of love – love of family that will stick by you regardless, love of a couple trying to find their way through past mistakes for a future together, and most of all the love of God. In this story, we not only read a wonderful Amish story, but we learn that all people, Amish or not, have flaws, problems and dreams. It’s when we put our lives in God’s hands that we can come to our full potential and fulfill his desire for us.
PATCHWORK DREAMS can definitely be read as a standalone, but I know you will be looking for the other books in this series once you read this one. I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a well-written story, the Amish genre, a Christian romance or just a well-rounded great book.
March 7, 2011
Patchwork Dreams is a sweet story that takes place in the Amish county of Seymour. I've always enjoyed reading Amish novels and this one was no exception. The lives of the Amish have always held great interest for me and I love reading about them. Patchwork Dreams allowed me to dive right into the Amish lifestyle.
Becky's character was easy to like. Her sinful past leaving lasting scars made her seem very practical and believable. She knew she had made bad decisions in the past and only wanted to move on and live her life the way she knew would please her God and her church. She was easy to relate to. I felt bad for her, as her friends refused to forgive her for a long time and still frowned upon her for her past sins.I was a little annoyed at how she kept turning Jacob away, but I could understand why she would think he wouldn't want her. She was also overly suspicious of every woman that Jacob mentioned; even after he made known that he liked her, which bothered me a bit since every relationship should be built on trust. :)
Jacob was extremely persistent. I loved that about him. He never gave up on the girl he loved even after she tried to push him away because she thought she wasn't good enough; which proved that he really cared for her. The fact that he cherished Becky was very evident throughout the book. Jacob was a very likeable character.
While I did enjoy reading the book, I did have a problem with it...I didn't find Jacob and Becky's immediate, love-at-first-sight romance realistic. It seemed very...plastic, but that may just be me. ;)
I also wish that Becky's baby was more prominent in the book. The babe was mentioned so little that I began to wonder what had become of her. It may just be me, but I think that the baby should have been a bigger part of the story.
As for the content, I do have something to mention. Becky was in a relationship with a non-amish man before the book opens up and became pregnant. While it seemed at first that she was just careless, it was later proven that she was raped. There are no scenes or anything and there is only minor discussion about it, but it is something that may not be suitable for young readers.
All in all, when I turned the last page I did not regret picking the book up. Aside from a few minor problems I had with it, I enjoyed the book. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a simple Amish romance. Look forward to this book's release on April 5th, 2011!
Becky's character was easy to like. Her sinful past leaving lasting scars made her seem very practical and believable. She knew she had made bad decisions in the past and only wanted to move on and live her life the way she knew would please her God and her church. She was easy to relate to. I felt bad for her, as her friends refused to forgive her for a long time and still frowned upon her for her past sins.I was a little annoyed at how she kept turning Jacob away, but I could understand why she would think he wouldn't want her. She was also overly suspicious of every woman that Jacob mentioned; even after he made known that he liked her, which bothered me a bit since every relationship should be built on trust. :)
Jacob was extremely persistent. I loved that about him. He never gave up on the girl he loved even after she tried to push him away because she thought she wasn't good enough; which proved that he really cared for her. The fact that he cherished Becky was very evident throughout the book. Jacob was a very likeable character.
While I did enjoy reading the book, I did have a problem with it...I didn't find Jacob and Becky's immediate, love-at-first-sight romance realistic. It seemed very...plastic, but that may just be me. ;)
I also wish that Becky's baby was more prominent in the book. The babe was mentioned so little that I began to wonder what had become of her. It may just be me, but I think that the baby should have been a bigger part of the story.
As for the content, I do have something to mention. Becky was in a relationship with a non-amish man before the book opens up and became pregnant. While it seemed at first that she was just careless, it was later proven that she was raped. There are no scenes or anything and there is only minor discussion about it, but it is something that may not be suitable for young readers.
All in all, when I turned the last page I did not regret picking the book up. Aside from a few minor problems I had with it, I enjoyed the book. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a simple Amish romance. Look forward to this book's release on April 5th, 2011!
January 2, 2012
Becky Troyer faces a life of raising her child alone without a husband. Who would want her after the mistake she made during her rumschpringe? She is an outcast in her own community. People talk and snicker about her behind her back.
Jacob Miller arrives at the Troyer farm sent there by his father. Jacob is there with the understanding that he is to help Cousin Daniel with chores for the summer. Jacob soon learns that his father wasn’t truthful with him and he was sent away to separate him from his girlfriend Susie.
What starts out as a friendship between Jacob and Becky soon becomes apparent that they are drawn toward one other. Jacob has hopes of courting Becky but will she agree to courting him?
Becky does not want to be hurt again after what happened to her during rumschpringe. What man would ever be interested in her?
Will Becky learn to accept God’s forgiveness and forgive herself for what she has done?
Will Jacob give up trying to win Becky’s heart?
I’m happy that the author Laura V. Hilton addresses the issue of a young Amish girl pregnant and unwed. I think at times we tend to idolize the Amish way of living. They struggle with the same issues that we do.
It was refreshing that the author gave Becky such supportive parents. God’s love shines through the way this situation was handled.
This book drew me in from page one all the way to the end. I did not want to put this book down and read it every spare moment that I had. This is the first book I have read by this author. I am looking forward to reading A Harvest of Hearts, the second book in this series.
Jacob Miller arrives at the Troyer farm sent there by his father. Jacob is there with the understanding that he is to help Cousin Daniel with chores for the summer. Jacob soon learns that his father wasn’t truthful with him and he was sent away to separate him from his girlfriend Susie.
What starts out as a friendship between Jacob and Becky soon becomes apparent that they are drawn toward one other. Jacob has hopes of courting Becky but will she agree to courting him?
Becky does not want to be hurt again after what happened to her during rumschpringe. What man would ever be interested in her?
Will Becky learn to accept God’s forgiveness and forgive herself for what she has done?
Will Jacob give up trying to win Becky’s heart?
I’m happy that the author Laura V. Hilton addresses the issue of a young Amish girl pregnant and unwed. I think at times we tend to idolize the Amish way of living. They struggle with the same issues that we do.
It was refreshing that the author gave Becky such supportive parents. God’s love shines through the way this situation was handled.
This book drew me in from page one all the way to the end. I did not want to put this book down and read it every spare moment that I had. This is the first book I have read by this author. I am looking forward to reading A Harvest of Hearts, the second book in this series.
January 23, 2011
Becky Troyer is sure that she will never find love or be anyone's frau, ever. Branded as used goods, after an incident during her rumspringa leaves her pregnant, and the Englischer who did saying it is not his baby and spreading horrible rumors about her. When a distant relative arrives from Pennsylvania to help out around their home, Becky finds that the attraction to Jacob Miller is distracting.
When Jacob tells Becky he has a girl in Pennsylvania that he wants to marry, Becky tries desperately to distance herself from him, but it isn't working. In fact it seems that the more she tries to avoid him, the more he seeks her out. It almost feels like he is torturing her with the attention he is paying to her. Jacob does not mean to cause her embarrassment or to torture her with unwanted attention, he just wants to see Becky smile, and to know she is happy. Will Jacob return to Pennsylvania to marry Susie, the girl his father seems determined to seperate him from, or will Becky claim his heart and keep him in Seymour Missouri?
A fast paced story, which features an unmarried young Amish mother, is a fresh look at this new Amish book! The first of a new series about the The Amish of Seymour, Laura Hilton draws you into the story, hook line and sinker! Do not miss this story, and look forward to book two coming out later this year from Whitaker House. 256 pages $6.99 US 5 stars.
This book was provided by Whitaker House for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
When Jacob tells Becky he has a girl in Pennsylvania that he wants to marry, Becky tries desperately to distance herself from him, but it isn't working. In fact it seems that the more she tries to avoid him, the more he seeks her out. It almost feels like he is torturing her with the attention he is paying to her. Jacob does not mean to cause her embarrassment or to torture her with unwanted attention, he just wants to see Becky smile, and to know she is happy. Will Jacob return to Pennsylvania to marry Susie, the girl his father seems determined to seperate him from, or will Becky claim his heart and keep him in Seymour Missouri?
A fast paced story, which features an unmarried young Amish mother, is a fresh look at this new Amish book! The first of a new series about the The Amish of Seymour, Laura Hilton draws you into the story, hook line and sinker! Do not miss this story, and look forward to book two coming out later this year from Whitaker House. 256 pages $6.99 US 5 stars.
This book was provided by Whitaker House for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
January 8, 2014
For anyone who enjoys Amish fiction, this is not the book or the series for you. I was unable to finish the entire book. I did skip through and read bits here and there - enough to get an accurate picture and the book is just not for me.
The writing is not at all realistic of the way the Amish speak or behave or interact. It's more like someone wrote a "Christian" novel and threw in a few Amish words and phrases to make it work. The writing itself is not bad and I probably would have enjoyed it so much more if it had not been for the major inconsistencies.
For example: The Amish do not complain like we do. Jacob might have been a bit disgruntled but he would not have gone on for half the book about how unfair it all was. And I know Becky's mom would NEVER have challenged Daniel over something so silly as a dinner. That's not the way Amish women are. It's the way we English are though so I can see where the author might not have realized her mistake.
I had planned to finish the trilogy but I don't see that happening now.
My suggestion: if you decide you want to read the book anyway, check it out from your local library.
The writing is not at all realistic of the way the Amish speak or behave or interact. It's more like someone wrote a "Christian" novel and threw in a few Amish words and phrases to make it work. The writing itself is not bad and I probably would have enjoyed it so much more if it had not been for the major inconsistencies.
For example: The Amish do not complain like we do. Jacob might have been a bit disgruntled but he would not have gone on for half the book about how unfair it all was. And I know Becky's mom would NEVER have challenged Daniel over something so silly as a dinner. That's not the way Amish women are. It's the way we English are though so I can see where the author might not have realized her mistake.
I had planned to finish the trilogy but I don't see that happening now.
My suggestion: if you decide you want to read the book anyway, check it out from your local library.
July 12, 2011
This was a delightful Amish story. A real insight into the Amish Culture. Jacob Miller is set to live with his distant cousin Daniel, where he learns the blacksmith trade. He comes from PA to Seymour, Missouri he thinks to appease his father. He is dating Suzie and has every intention to return in a few months and marry her.
At the door to Daniel's place he meets Becky. Does he believe in Love at first sight? Can't be there is Suzie? The Amish in PA are trading some young men with MO, in order to help with some of the birth defects that are common in each Community. Jacob hopes to return when the others arrive, if not before.
Both Becky and Jacob need to accept God's Grace and forgiveness. They are now thrown together along with Suzie.
I recommend this book...what a great Summer read.
At the door to Daniel's place he meets Becky. Does he believe in Love at first sight? Can't be there is Suzie? The Amish in PA are trading some young men with MO, in order to help with some of the birth defects that are common in each Community. Jacob hopes to return when the others arrive, if not before.
Both Becky and Jacob need to accept God's Grace and forgiveness. They are now thrown together along with Suzie.
I recommend this book...what a great Summer read.
January 28, 2013
I recently read Patchwork Dreams (Amish of Seymour County, #1) written by Laura V. Hilton. Another enjoyable read. I really connected with her characters. I felt the emotion, the frustration, the shame and the love of Becky or rather "Bex".
She had endured so much in her very young life and felt she did not deserve anything better. I think we all feel that way at times.
However, it took this young man who came to stay with her family~~a distant cousin ~~to help her realize that she was worthy of something better.
The on again /off again feelings and emotions were a bit frustrating at times, but I could not put this book down.
This novel did pull at my heart-strings. I just loved it. And, I would highly recommend it.
She had endured so much in her very young life and felt she did not deserve anything better. I think we all feel that way at times.
However, it took this young man who came to stay with her family~~a distant cousin ~~to help her realize that she was worthy of something better.
The on again /off again feelings and emotions were a bit frustrating at times, but I could not put this book down.
This novel did pull at my heart-strings. I just loved it. And, I would highly recommend it.
December 18, 2012
My mom found this book in a catalog and asked if I would be interested in reading it. After reading the first 9 words of the back cover I was SOLD! And I was very happy with the read! This is a FABULOUS book! Patchwork Dreams takes you on a journey of forgiveness, self worth, and finding out God's plans are far better than our own! Wonderful characters; you will fall in love with Jacob right along with Becky! But can Jacob let go of Susie to follow God's plans for him? Read Patchwork Dreams to find out! A wonderful, unique story. A MUST READ in my opinion! And this book will leave you wanting more! Harvest Hearts preview will sending you running to read it next!
My song choices are: "I Will" by Jimmy Wayne and "He Leadeth Me" by the Cluster Pluckers
John 3:15-16
~ASC
My song choices are: "I Will" by Jimmy Wayne and "He Leadeth Me" by the Cluster Pluckers
John 3:15-16
~ASC
May 20, 2012
A happy little romance. I would have given it 4 stars except for a few big holes: Jacob willingness to give up Susie is a little too fast. We later see the holes in their relationship (really in her) so it makes it feel better, but really, for a man so sure he's going home to marry a woman, he's awfully flirty. The other big issue for me is that toward the end the effort to keep Jacob and Becky apart by numerous misunderstandings and bad timing gets a little silly. Cutting this down to 200 pages and cutting out a lot of the 'keep them apart' antics of the last 50 pages of the story would have done wonders for me.
October 26, 2012
This was the 'incurable romantic's' first venture into Amish romances and I expected stereotyped drivel. Instead I found a captivating story, solid believeable characters, and quaint respectful references to the Amish way of life. The dialogue is replete with the peculiar Amish language and I was fascinated with the detailed descriptions of an old-fashioned black smith shop. This won't be my last Amish romance, if other authors approach Laura Hilton's style and competence. Highly recommended for anyone who loves any type of romance.
June 9, 2013
I was spellbound by this story from the very beginning. There are many good points to this book and I would have quickly given it five stars but found myself very frustrated by the last few chapters. I found the last part of the book very repetitive and the misunderstandings the characters kept having were not believable. The book should have reached its conclusion much sooner. I was so frustrated during the last two chapters that I was ready to throw my Kindle and scream.
August 14, 2024
The main characters in this story are very bad listeners and fickle. I just wanted to yell at them for much of this book. Jacob's father arranges for him to leave PA and go to Missouri as part of an exchange program for Amish men looking for brides. But the problem is Jacob has a sweetheart back in PA, but he wants to change her and he wants a good Amish wife. Becky is struggling with her choices during Rumspringa where she ended up pregnant by a boy who drove a fast car. She was ostracized by her community and may have to settle with an older widower if she wants to be married. From the very first page Jacob is all winky and flirty with Becky, really????
January 13, 2019
Patchwork Dreams is the first book I've read by Laura V. Hilton. A very good introduction to this author. The writing is very good, the character's very believable. Becky and Jacob's journey to happiness is filled with so many challenges. The reader can't help but stand and cheer for them.
What I like best about series based stories is that you aren't only introduced to the main characters, but to their families and their communities as well. I'm glad this author was recommended to me and I can't wait to read more of her books.
What I like best about series based stories is that you aren't only introduced to the main characters, but to their families and their communities as well. I'm glad this author was recommended to me and I can't wait to read more of her books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2018
Totally enjoyable!
I love a good Amish romance! This one was very good. I liked the characters, especially Bex and Jacob and rooted for them to get together from the beginning. Sometimes I just wanted her to tell him how she felt but I understood her reluctance. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys the Amish romance
I love a good Amish romance! This one was very good. I liked the characters, especially Bex and Jacob and rooted for them to get together from the beginning. Sometimes I just wanted her to tell him how she felt but I understood her reluctance. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys the Amish romance
January 8, 2019
This book is the first of three written in this series by Laura V. Hilton. The series is set in Missouri near the area of Springfield, Seymour county. The Amish characters are people that the reader will feel comfortable with in the story. The ending has bits of information that gives the reader a touch of the next book in this series. copy right 2011
October 15, 2020
I really enjoyed this story of redemption and friendship.
One thing I didn't like, was the treatment of Becky - by her community and even her relatives! I couldn't believe, in a 'forgiving' society, that her OWN COUSIN was slagging her, rather than defending her!! What happened to the kneeling confession clearing your sin away, and 'turn the other cheek', or the Golden Rule?
One thing I didn't like, was the treatment of Becky - by her community and even her relatives! I couldn't believe, in a 'forgiving' society, that her OWN COUSIN was slagging her, rather than defending her!! What happened to the kneeling confession clearing your sin away, and 'turn the other cheek', or the Golden Rule?
September 19, 2017
First read by this author.. Great free find on Amazon. I loved that this Amish story dealt with a little more heartfelt issues like unwed pregnancy.
July 25, 2021
Just okay.
May 23, 2012
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I wasn't at all sure what to expect as it was shorter than the usual Amish novels and I'd heard some mixed reviews, but I can definitely say that I'm now a fan of Laura Hilton. Although the storyline may be one that's been tried a hundred times before, Laura made me really care about Becky and Jacob and had me rooting for their relationship to work out. I especially liked how supportive Becky's parents were with their daughter - unlike some people in their community - and it was particularly nice to see such a kind-hearted father who stuck up for his daughter. Some of the men in Amish novels can be a bit stoic and not say a lot, so Becky's father was a welcome change.
My only real complaints about this book would be that Jacob could be a bit cocky at times, and the difficulties keeping Becky and Jacob apart got a bit repetitive. While I could appreciate that Jacob's winking and flirting could be offputting to Becky and be a real test of her trust, considering her past relationship with Kent, at others I really did think that he was being a bit too forward, considering how long he'd known Becky for. Their relationship was just a little bit too much "love at first sight", although this didn't bother me as much as I expected. As for the main conflict in this book, I did enjoy watching Becky and Jacob coming to trust and care for each other, but the conflict involving Jacob mistakenly thinking Becky was courting someone else seemed a bit too convoluted. While I understood that communication is an issue amongst the Amish, not having phones and relying on snail mail, I really just wished they'd talked more and confronted each other about their feelings.
Despite my misgivings about some aspects of the plot, I really did enjoy this novel. It was the perfect, relaxing story to read while enjoying the sunshine. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Becky and Jacob's relationship develop and them learning to trust each other. Even if this is a well-worn storyline, the plot about Becky's baby is definitely one I've not seen in Amish fiction before, and tied in with Jacob being sent off to Missouri by his parents, Laura definitely made this plot into something new. It's nice to come across such a refreshingly new voice in Amish fiction, particularly when publishers are churning out the books so fast that you're starting to wonder whether you're going to start to get bored of this genre! Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series, and I'm sure that the issues I had with this book will be smoothed out as Laura develops her writing style. 4*
My only real complaints about this book would be that Jacob could be a bit cocky at times, and the difficulties keeping Becky and Jacob apart got a bit repetitive. While I could appreciate that Jacob's winking and flirting could be offputting to Becky and be a real test of her trust, considering her past relationship with Kent, at others I really did think that he was being a bit too forward, considering how long he'd known Becky for. Their relationship was just a little bit too much "love at first sight", although this didn't bother me as much as I expected. As for the main conflict in this book, I did enjoy watching Becky and Jacob coming to trust and care for each other, but the conflict involving Jacob mistakenly thinking Becky was courting someone else seemed a bit too convoluted. While I understood that communication is an issue amongst the Amish, not having phones and relying on snail mail, I really just wished they'd talked more and confronted each other about their feelings.
Despite my misgivings about some aspects of the plot, I really did enjoy this novel. It was the perfect, relaxing story to read while enjoying the sunshine. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Becky and Jacob's relationship develop and them learning to trust each other. Even if this is a well-worn storyline, the plot about Becky's baby is definitely one I've not seen in Amish fiction before, and tied in with Jacob being sent off to Missouri by his parents, Laura definitely made this plot into something new. It's nice to come across such a refreshingly new voice in Amish fiction, particularly when publishers are churning out the books so fast that you're starting to wonder whether you're going to start to get bored of this genre! Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series, and I'm sure that the issues I had with this book will be smoothed out as Laura develops her writing style. 4*
March 7, 2011
Becky Troyer, through no fault of her own was attacked by her "Englisher" boyfriend and ends up with child. In the midst of her close knit Amish community she becomes something of an outcast, not fitting in among her single girlfriends or the young married women. She has all but given up on finding the love and acceptance of a good Amish man.
Jacob Miller, "new blood" from Pennsylvania was led to believe he was sent to Seymour, Missouri, to help out a distant cousin for the summer. Little does he realize that his daed had other plans and his heart will too. Can her learn to like Missouri? Will Becky learn to smile again? Can they both leave their pasts behind them and forgive? All of these questions and more are answered in Patchwork Dreams. All fans of Amish fiction will certainly want to read this story!
While not perfect or the most original of stories, I enjoyed it. I liked Becky, she was realistic and relatable. She was pressured into sex by an aggressive boyfriend, she had doubts about her faith and she had doubts about herself and her self-worth. I think all young girls can relate to at least one of these issues. I like to read stories that address those issues especially in fiction where most of the time characters can seem so perfect with lives as sweet as candy.
That said I thought that Jacob was a little too perfect. I didn't really like him, he never seemed to get into trouble and everything just seemed to fall in his lap. There were times towards the end of the book when trouble showed up in the form of an old friend from the past and in Becky's ex-boyfriend. I don't know why, I just didn't seem to feel as connected to him as I did Becky which is unusual for me, most of the time I like the hero and want to shake the heroine! All in all this was a good start to a new series of which I'm really looking forward to the next release. I want to read the goings on of the community of Seymour!
**Special thanks to Cathy Hickling of Whitaker House for sending me a review copy.***
Jacob Miller, "new blood" from Pennsylvania was led to believe he was sent to Seymour, Missouri, to help out a distant cousin for the summer. Little does he realize that his daed had other plans and his heart will too. Can her learn to like Missouri? Will Becky learn to smile again? Can they both leave their pasts behind them and forgive? All of these questions and more are answered in Patchwork Dreams. All fans of Amish fiction will certainly want to read this story!
While not perfect or the most original of stories, I enjoyed it. I liked Becky, she was realistic and relatable. She was pressured into sex by an aggressive boyfriend, she had doubts about her faith and she had doubts about herself and her self-worth. I think all young girls can relate to at least one of these issues. I like to read stories that address those issues especially in fiction where most of the time characters can seem so perfect with lives as sweet as candy.
That said I thought that Jacob was a little too perfect. I didn't really like him, he never seemed to get into trouble and everything just seemed to fall in his lap. There were times towards the end of the book when trouble showed up in the form of an old friend from the past and in Becky's ex-boyfriend. I don't know why, I just didn't seem to feel as connected to him as I did Becky which is unusual for me, most of the time I like the hero and want to shake the heroine! All in all this was a good start to a new series of which I'm really looking forward to the next release. I want to read the goings on of the community of Seymour!
**Special thanks to Cathy Hickling of Whitaker House for sending me a review copy.***
June 6, 2011
This is a story of hope for two young people who had assumed their futures were all figured out for them, whether they liked it or not. But when they met each other, hope rekindled when each realized they didn’t have to be confined to what they had assumed their future might be.
Becky has a fondness for McDonald’s “fancy” coffee, a.k.a. cappuccino. She and Jacob looked for any opportunity to take the buggy to McDonalds for a coffee. The plot has a few twists and turns, misunderstandings that almost lead to ruined relationships and a sweet love story that will capture the hearts of many readers. It’s a quick, light read for those who enjoy Amish fiction.
What I liked: I liked that this wasn’t just another Amish book. Unlike some, where the main character meets “an Englischer” and struggles with the decision to leave the order or stay, this book takes a refreshing break from that story line. It also shows a less idealized and more raw side of Amish life in that it depicts a young woman who has had a child out of wedlock. Readers will discover more about this circumstance as the story unfolds. The family has a warm and loving relationship that's endearing.
What I didn’t like: I though that Becky and Jacob fell in love unrealistically quick and Jacob acted way too familiar with her. It was only a day or two after they met that he was calling her Bex, and not too many more when he reached across the table for her hand. He often did things like wink at her. I would think that since she was an unwed mother, her parents would have protected her more from instant male attention, even if it was from an Amish man (one whom they barely knew).
I was also disappointed that most Englischers in the story were evil and worldly. The story felt a little imbalance in that so few were trustworthy. It also seemed like Becky’s annoying former Englisch beau had a habit of showing up at McDonalds every time she was there. Incidents similar to that made the story a little too predictable.
Becky has a fondness for McDonald’s “fancy” coffee, a.k.a. cappuccino. She and Jacob looked for any opportunity to take the buggy to McDonalds for a coffee. The plot has a few twists and turns, misunderstandings that almost lead to ruined relationships and a sweet love story that will capture the hearts of many readers. It’s a quick, light read for those who enjoy Amish fiction.
What I liked: I liked that this wasn’t just another Amish book. Unlike some, where the main character meets “an Englischer” and struggles with the decision to leave the order or stay, this book takes a refreshing break from that story line. It also shows a less idealized and more raw side of Amish life in that it depicts a young woman who has had a child out of wedlock. Readers will discover more about this circumstance as the story unfolds. The family has a warm and loving relationship that's endearing.
What I didn’t like: I though that Becky and Jacob fell in love unrealistically quick and Jacob acted way too familiar with her. It was only a day or two after they met that he was calling her Bex, and not too many more when he reached across the table for her hand. He often did things like wink at her. I would think that since she was an unwed mother, her parents would have protected her more from instant male attention, even if it was from an Amish man (one whom they barely knew).
I was also disappointed that most Englischers in the story were evil and worldly. The story felt a little imbalance in that so few were trustworthy. It also seemed like Becky’s annoying former Englisch beau had a habit of showing up at McDonalds every time she was there. Incidents similar to that made the story a little too predictable.
March 9, 2011
I loved this book, it's short and a quick read, but very enjoyable. I started it later in the evening on Friday night and finished it in the early hours of Saturday morning (and I usually don't stay up that late). I just could not put it down. I had to find out what would happen between Becky and Jacob.
I'll start with the characters. I like how Becky was introduced and how different she seemed from Jacob who was a little more spirited. But as the book goes on, more and more is revealed about Becky and how she is treated by her community and her family. I love that her family still treated her well even though she had a baby out of wedlock which I would guess is a huge no-no in the Amish community. Her parents were still loving and supportive and her best friend and her mother were supportive as well. I liked that - I am kind of turned off by the stories where the children are shunned by the family when they make a mistake. So that was refreshing. Jacob was great too. He has been sent away by his father because his father does not like Jacob's choice of a girl to marry since this girl seems to want to give up the Amish community. Only Jacob does not know this, he thinks he is being sent to help out for a time. I really like Jacob. He seems to make the best of his situation even when things seem really bad. I like how he changes during the book and how he finds making Becky smile to be a challenge and how sweet he really is to her and her baby.
The plot moves quickly with the reader learning more and more about the characters and with little surprises here and there. It is plotted well and I loved it from page one until I finished. It's just a light and enjoyable romance. Sweet, romantic at times and an interesting look into the Amish community.
So come and meet Becky and Jacob and the families of the Amish of Seymour County. I can't wait to meet more of the community in books to come and hopefully see some more of Becky and Jacob as well.
I'll start with the characters. I like how Becky was introduced and how different she seemed from Jacob who was a little more spirited. But as the book goes on, more and more is revealed about Becky and how she is treated by her community and her family. I love that her family still treated her well even though she had a baby out of wedlock which I would guess is a huge no-no in the Amish community. Her parents were still loving and supportive and her best friend and her mother were supportive as well. I liked that - I am kind of turned off by the stories where the children are shunned by the family when they make a mistake. So that was refreshing. Jacob was great too. He has been sent away by his father because his father does not like Jacob's choice of a girl to marry since this girl seems to want to give up the Amish community. Only Jacob does not know this, he thinks he is being sent to help out for a time. I really like Jacob. He seems to make the best of his situation even when things seem really bad. I like how he changes during the book and how he finds making Becky smile to be a challenge and how sweet he really is to her and her baby.
The plot moves quickly with the reader learning more and more about the characters and with little surprises here and there. It is plotted well and I loved it from page one until I finished. It's just a light and enjoyable romance. Sweet, romantic at times and an interesting look into the Amish community.
So come and meet Becky and Jacob and the families of the Amish of Seymour County. I can't wait to meet more of the community in books to come and hopefully see some more of Becky and Jacob as well.
July 17, 2016
Patchwork Dreams is not your typical Amish story. Laura V. Hilton created a masterpiece with her characters, story line and words that created scenes that connected the story even more. They were not empty words but words with heart felt emotions. I didn’t want to stop reading until I was finished; however, responsiblities of life prevented that. I read every spare minute I could till I read the final word in this top of the line Amish tale.
Jacob Miller was a disgruntled young man when he was sent to Seymour, MO from Pennsylvania, as a swap for young men to bring new blood into the Amish community. With Jacob’s arrival to his uncle’s farm, Daniel Troyer, Jacob noticed Becky Troyer and how she seemed down trodden by never smiling. Becky had suffered at the hand of a young Englisher guy and was paying the price daily in her life. Her family supported her and she gave all she had to assist the family with her wonderful cooking, baking and household chores. When Jacob and Becky went to McDonald’s for a fancy coffee, that Becky had developed a taste for while in her rumschpringe, Jacob encounter the Englisher. What transpired between the two men was not the typical response of an Amish man.
There are so many twists and turns with Becky even leaving to go assist her sister’s family. Who is stealing all the letters that were being sent to Becky? Why did Jacob’s girlfriend from Pennsylvania show up unannounced when she had asked for a break from Jacob after he went to Seymour?
Order a copy of Patchwork Dreams and discover this amazing story. This book is filled with determination, heartache, misunderstanding, faith, love and prayers being spoken throughout the story to show the strong faith of the characters. I felt each character’s emotion whether it was tears or laughter. I cannot wait to finish the second book, Harvest of Hearts, in The Amish of Seymour. I’m thankful the author included chapter one in this book.
Jacob Miller was a disgruntled young man when he was sent to Seymour, MO from Pennsylvania, as a swap for young men to bring new blood into the Amish community. With Jacob’s arrival to his uncle’s farm, Daniel Troyer, Jacob noticed Becky Troyer and how she seemed down trodden by never smiling. Becky had suffered at the hand of a young Englisher guy and was paying the price daily in her life. Her family supported her and she gave all she had to assist the family with her wonderful cooking, baking and household chores. When Jacob and Becky went to McDonald’s for a fancy coffee, that Becky had developed a taste for while in her rumschpringe, Jacob encounter the Englisher. What transpired between the two men was not the typical response of an Amish man.
There are so many twists and turns with Becky even leaving to go assist her sister’s family. Who is stealing all the letters that were being sent to Becky? Why did Jacob’s girlfriend from Pennsylvania show up unannounced when she had asked for a break from Jacob after he went to Seymour?
Order a copy of Patchwork Dreams and discover this amazing story. This book is filled with determination, heartache, misunderstanding, faith, love and prayers being spoken throughout the story to show the strong faith of the characters. I felt each character’s emotion whether it was tears or laughter. I cannot wait to finish the second book, Harvest of Hearts, in The Amish of Seymour. I’m thankful the author included chapter one in this book.
March 3, 2011
Patchwork Dreams is such an excellent book. I enjoyed it from the first page to the last.
Becky is paying for her past mistakes in a big way. During her running around time (rumspringa) in the Amish culture Becky has a baby and her peers keep shunning her, even after she has asked for forgiveness.
Then Jacob comes along. Jacob is sent to their farm(he thinks to only help out for the summer) but the others think he is sent here to bring new blood into the community. Only problem Jacob is already going to get married to a girl from his home.
So we follow these two. Jacob wants to get Becky to smile and that is the mission he sets out on. In Patchwork Dreams you will see many changes in both people and see how they grow up in different situations.
I don’t care for a lot of Amish stories, because the authors are usually judgmental of the English world and always put the Amish above them, but with Patchwork Dreams it isn’t like that at all. We see a story about everyone making mistakes, wrong choices and peace finally if we go in the right way.
The characters have a lot of love and commitment to the Lord, with a lot of touching scenes. This is the first of a new series about The Amish of Seymour by Laura Hilton
This is a book that I can feel good about recommending for all to read. It has everything a good novel should have from tenderness, sadness, forgiveness, peace and joy. So you need to buy this book if you love to read and Amish stories are some of your favorites. Even if you don’t like Amish stories this one is different and full of exciting happenings.
Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. 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
Becky is paying for her past mistakes in a big way. During her running around time (rumspringa) in the Amish culture Becky has a baby and her peers keep shunning her, even after she has asked for forgiveness.
Then Jacob comes along. Jacob is sent to their farm(he thinks to only help out for the summer) but the others think he is sent here to bring new blood into the community. Only problem Jacob is already going to get married to a girl from his home.
So we follow these two. Jacob wants to get Becky to smile and that is the mission he sets out on. In Patchwork Dreams you will see many changes in both people and see how they grow up in different situations.
I don’t care for a lot of Amish stories, because the authors are usually judgmental of the English world and always put the Amish above them, but with Patchwork Dreams it isn’t like that at all. We see a story about everyone making mistakes, wrong choices and peace finally if we go in the right way.
The characters have a lot of love and commitment to the Lord, with a lot of touching scenes. This is the first of a new series about The Amish of Seymour by Laura Hilton
This is a book that I can feel good about recommending for all to read. It has everything a good novel should have from tenderness, sadness, forgiveness, peace and joy. So you need to buy this book if you love to read and Amish stories are some of your favorites. Even if you don’t like Amish stories this one is different and full of exciting happenings.
Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. 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
June 11, 2011
Patchwork Dreams
The Amish of Seymour
By Laura V. Hilton
In Jacob’s parents eyes, he is flirting with danger when it comes to his relationship with Susie, Amish, but becoming more and more worldly. Jacob is sent to a distant cousin’s house in Missouri, his parents tell him it is to help out his cousin for a time. Really his parents have sent him there to forget about Susie and bring new Amish blood to the area.
Jacob meets distant cousin Becky and is instantly drawn to her, and takes it upon himself to get her to learn to smile again. Becky feels forsaken by the world and her involvement with an Englisher that had left her shunned for several weeks, and never really brought back into the fold of the church. Jacob and Becky’s friendship begins and as time goes on they realize there is much more to it than that.
Drama and conflict is thrown in with an elderly widower wanting to woo Becky, Jacob’s Susie coming for a visit, and running into the Englisher who brought so much heart ache.
A novel of forgiveness and redemption, centered in the Amish culture in Missouri, was a beautiful summer read.
I really enjoyed that the setting for this novel was somewhere other than Pennsylvania. I felt a new dimension was able to be added by researching a different group of Amish, and showing us a change of scenery. The characters were well developed and likeable. I often found myself rooting for Jacob, and wanting to shake Becky into realizing how good he was for her! There really are a lot of amish fiction novels presently on the market, many of them seeming very similar and familiar to each other. I found this one to be different enough that it kept my intrique and kept my fingers turning the pages.
I received this book free from Whitaker House in order to review it.
The Amish of Seymour
By Laura V. Hilton
In Jacob’s parents eyes, he is flirting with danger when it comes to his relationship with Susie, Amish, but becoming more and more worldly. Jacob is sent to a distant cousin’s house in Missouri, his parents tell him it is to help out his cousin for a time. Really his parents have sent him there to forget about Susie and bring new Amish blood to the area.
Jacob meets distant cousin Becky and is instantly drawn to her, and takes it upon himself to get her to learn to smile again. Becky feels forsaken by the world and her involvement with an Englisher that had left her shunned for several weeks, and never really brought back into the fold of the church. Jacob and Becky’s friendship begins and as time goes on they realize there is much more to it than that.
Drama and conflict is thrown in with an elderly widower wanting to woo Becky, Jacob’s Susie coming for a visit, and running into the Englisher who brought so much heart ache.
A novel of forgiveness and redemption, centered in the Amish culture in Missouri, was a beautiful summer read.
I really enjoyed that the setting for this novel was somewhere other than Pennsylvania. I felt a new dimension was able to be added by researching a different group of Amish, and showing us a change of scenery. The characters were well developed and likeable. I often found myself rooting for Jacob, and wanting to shake Becky into realizing how good he was for her! There really are a lot of amish fiction novels presently on the market, many of them seeming very similar and familiar to each other. I found this one to be different enough that it kept my intrique and kept my fingers turning the pages.
I received this book free from Whitaker House in order to review it.
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