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New Hope Amish #1
Love Still Stands
Readers of Kelly Irvin's Bliss Creek Amish novels will be overjoyed to discover her new series for lovers of Amish fiction: The New Hope Amish. In the first installment, Love Still Stands, a group of dedicated families leaves Bliss Creek to establish a new community in Missouri. Among them is Bethel Graber, a beautiful young woman with a passion for teaching. But after being disabled in a terrible accident, overseeing a classroom is out of the question...and romance seems a long-lost dream.
Bethel begins physical therapy, determined to make a fresh start. But that won't be easy in the town of New Hope, where the locals seem anything but eager to welcome their new Amish neighbors. Amid growing intimidation from the community, Bethel must find the strength to face her many challenges and the faith to believe that God still has a plan--and a love--for her life.
Bethel begins physical therapy, determined to make a fresh start. But that won't be easy in the town of New Hope, where the locals seem anything but eager to welcome their new Amish neighbors. Amid growing intimidation from the community, Bethel must find the strength to face her many challenges and the faith to believe that God still has a plan--and a love--for her life.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
91 people are currently reading
971 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Irvin
74 books831 followersBest-selling author Kelly Irvin splits her writing time between Amish romances and romantic suspense. Her latest release is Trust Me (2/8/22), a romantic suspense novel set in San Antonio's historic art district. It explores broken trust and whether trust can ever be restored. Publishers Weekly called it a "whirlwind romantic thriller" and "an emotional rollercoaster."
Her latest Amish romance is Love's Dwelling, the first book in the Amish Blessings series, which released in July 2021. The series takes place in Yoder and Haven, Kansas, and looks at adoption among the Amish. The series follows her Amish romance series, Amish of Sky Country includes Mountains of Grace, followed by The Long Bridge Home, and Peace in the Valley. The series explores Amish communities in northwest Montana and how they are impacted by wildfires.
Other romantic suspense novels include Her Every Move, which Publishers Weekly called gripping suspense and said, "loving descriptions of San Antonio’s attractions enhance the well-paced plot."
The publication called Closer Than She Knows a "brisk, smoothly written, thriller."
Kelly's Every Amish Season series includes Upon A Spring Breeze, Beneath the Summer Sun, Through the Autumn Air, and With Winter's First Frost from Zondervan/HarperCollins Christian Publishing. This follows the Amish of Bee County series, The Saddle Maker's Son, released in June 2016. It is an ECPA bestseller. It follows The Bishop's Son, and the critically acclaimed bestseller, The Beekeeper's Son, which earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. The reviewer called it "a beautifully woven masterpiece." The Beekeeper's Son was a finalist in the romance category of the 2016 ACFW Carol Awards Contest.
Kelly is also the author of the Bliss Creek Amish series and the New Amish Amish series. The first series includes To Love and To Cherish, A Heart Made New, and Love’s Journey Home, published by Harvest House. The New Hope Amish series includes Love Still Stands, followed by Love Redeemed, which was an ACFW Carol Award finalist, and A Plain Love Song.
Kelly has also penned two other romantic suspense novels, A Deadly Wilderness and No Child of Mine..
The Kansas native is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and ACFW's San Antonio local chapter Alamo City Christian Fiction Writers.
A graduate of the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism, Kelly has been writing nonfiction professionally for thirty years. She studied for three semesters at the University of Costa Rica, learning the Spanish language. As a journalist, she worked six years in the border towns of Laredo and El Paso.
She worked in public relations for the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department for 22 years before retiring earlier this year. Kelly has been married to photographer Tim Irvin for twenty-eight years. They have two young adult children and have three grandchildren. In her spare time, she likes to write short stories, read books by her favorite authors, and looks forward to visits with her grandchildren.
Her latest Amish romance is Love's Dwelling, the first book in the Amish Blessings series, which released in July 2021. The series takes place in Yoder and Haven, Kansas, and looks at adoption among the Amish. The series follows her Amish romance series, Amish of Sky Country includes Mountains of Grace, followed by The Long Bridge Home, and Peace in the Valley. The series explores Amish communities in northwest Montana and how they are impacted by wildfires.
Other romantic suspense novels include Her Every Move, which Publishers Weekly called gripping suspense and said, "loving descriptions of San Antonio’s attractions enhance the well-paced plot."
The publication called Closer Than She Knows a "brisk, smoothly written, thriller."
Kelly's Every Amish Season series includes Upon A Spring Breeze, Beneath the Summer Sun, Through the Autumn Air, and With Winter's First Frost from Zondervan/HarperCollins Christian Publishing. This follows the Amish of Bee County series, The Saddle Maker's Son, released in June 2016. It is an ECPA bestseller. It follows The Bishop's Son, and the critically acclaimed bestseller, The Beekeeper's Son, which earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. The reviewer called it "a beautifully woven masterpiece." The Beekeeper's Son was a finalist in the romance category of the 2016 ACFW Carol Awards Contest.
Kelly is also the author of the Bliss Creek Amish series and the New Amish Amish series. The first series includes To Love and To Cherish, A Heart Made New, and Love’s Journey Home, published by Harvest House. The New Hope Amish series includes Love Still Stands, followed by Love Redeemed, which was an ACFW Carol Award finalist, and A Plain Love Song.
Kelly has also penned two other romantic suspense novels, A Deadly Wilderness and No Child of Mine..
The Kansas native is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and ACFW's San Antonio local chapter Alamo City Christian Fiction Writers.
A graduate of the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism, Kelly has been writing nonfiction professionally for thirty years. She studied for three semesters at the University of Costa Rica, learning the Spanish language. As a journalist, she worked six years in the border towns of Laredo and El Paso.
She worked in public relations for the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department for 22 years before retiring earlier this year. Kelly has been married to photographer Tim Irvin for twenty-eight years. They have two young adult children and have three grandchildren. In her spare time, she likes to write short stories, read books by her favorite authors, and looks forward to visits with her grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 31, 2014
Really good. Highly r4eccomende if you enjoyed The Bliss Creek Amish series. Cannot wait for the next book.
October 21, 2013
Love Still Stands is the first book of the spin-off series following The Bliss Creek Amish. We follow Luke and his wife Leah as they move along with Bethel who is Leah’s sister to New Hope Missouri. A few other families have moved as well as they plan to start a new settlement. Bethel is still recovering from the tornado that left her badly injured. She now has to figure out what God wants for her as she is not married and can no longer be a school teacher due to her injuries.
Elijah has also moved to New Hope and after years of taking care of his parents he is now helping his brother farm and hoping to start a family of his own if he can find a wife. Bethel fears she can’t be a whole wife and does not want Elijah to feel sorry for her. Can they over come the past to face a brighter tomorrow?
In the Bliss Creek series we see and hear a lot from Luke and Leah but we don’t really get to know them. In this book as we follow Bethel and Elijah we also get to know Luke as he gets a voice in this book for the first time. Leah did not have a voice but through Luke we start to understand her and shed some light on her behavior. The first series was kind of dark and sad and this book starts out that way but by the end it feels happier over all.
What I liked: I really liked that we finally get to hear from Luke and learn more about Leah and why she is such an unhappy person. Both Bethel and Elijah are quite likable and I was cheering for Bethel to understand that even though her legs are not working right she still has a lot to offer and would make a good wife.
What I did not like: This was a good book but it’s still on the dark side. Not as bad as the first series so far but not a touchy-feely kind of read. Not a bad thing at all but not everyone likes books that feel so real to life.
Overall this was a good book. It deals with a lot of hard issues such as prejudice and depression and the road of recovery after an accident. Even though there were some tough subjects the book did a good job of being upbeat and the ending left me happy with how it turned out. I would strongly suggest you read the Bliss Creek series first as they follow each other and it will make it easier to understand the characters and how they are related etc..
Elijah has also moved to New Hope and after years of taking care of his parents he is now helping his brother farm and hoping to start a family of his own if he can find a wife. Bethel fears she can’t be a whole wife and does not want Elijah to feel sorry for her. Can they over come the past to face a brighter tomorrow?
In the Bliss Creek series we see and hear a lot from Luke and Leah but we don’t really get to know them. In this book as we follow Bethel and Elijah we also get to know Luke as he gets a voice in this book for the first time. Leah did not have a voice but through Luke we start to understand her and shed some light on her behavior. The first series was kind of dark and sad and this book starts out that way but by the end it feels happier over all.
What I liked: I really liked that we finally get to hear from Luke and learn more about Leah and why she is such an unhappy person. Both Bethel and Elijah are quite likable and I was cheering for Bethel to understand that even though her legs are not working right she still has a lot to offer and would make a good wife.
What I did not like: This was a good book but it’s still on the dark side. Not as bad as the first series so far but not a touchy-feely kind of read. Not a bad thing at all but not everyone likes books that feel so real to life.
Overall this was a good book. It deals with a lot of hard issues such as prejudice and depression and the road of recovery after an accident. Even though there were some tough subjects the book did a good job of being upbeat and the ending left me happy with how it turned out. I would strongly suggest you read the Bliss Creek series first as they follow each other and it will make it easier to understand the characters and how they are related etc..
September 22, 2019
Great read. A story of forgiveness, overcoming a trauma, and a dream coming true with God's blessings.
Glad I have the other two in the series to read. I was blessed to win this series from the author via a blog giveaway. I was not required to review but have shared my honest opinion.
Glad I have the other two in the series to read. I was blessed to win this series from the author via a blog giveaway. I was not required to review but have shared my honest opinion.
June 5, 2017
This was a bit of a different Amish Romance for me. There were some new issues and complexities to the relationships that I really enjoyed. They made the characters seem far less fictional and much more like real people dealing with real life. There's also more than one relationship that needs a little help if it's going to be everything it should.
Bethel is our main character. Recovering from an accident, she needs physical therapy. Which, as you can imagine, causes conflicts with some of her beliefs. Water therapy, weight training, and stretching are all hard to do in Amish traditional clothing. I feel like the author handled this conflict beautifully, showing the delicate balance between tradition/beliefs and doing what's best for their community. Their way of finding a way to stay true to what they stand for, while at the same time giving Bethel the things she needs, was amazing.
On the side we have Bethel's sister and brother-in-law fighting a very hard battle against depression. Another delicate balancing act between having faith in God to see them through and doing what needs to be done to keep people well. While this storyline took the backseat to Bethel's, I feel like it was an important one and loved how it gave a face to in issue that many just don't understand.
The downfall to me was the stress between the new Amish community and their country town neighbors. It was just one thing too many and really just made the non-Amish neighbors seem like complete jerks (with the exception of one or two). It was over-stereotyping and I just didn't seem to enjoy that little bit of the story.
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**
Bethel is our main character. Recovering from an accident, she needs physical therapy. Which, as you can imagine, causes conflicts with some of her beliefs. Water therapy, weight training, and stretching are all hard to do in Amish traditional clothing. I feel like the author handled this conflict beautifully, showing the delicate balance between tradition/beliefs and doing what's best for their community. Their way of finding a way to stay true to what they stand for, while at the same time giving Bethel the things she needs, was amazing.
On the side we have Bethel's sister and brother-in-law fighting a very hard battle against depression. Another delicate balancing act between having faith in God to see them through and doing what needs to be done to keep people well. While this storyline took the backseat to Bethel's, I feel like it was an important one and loved how it gave a face to in issue that many just don't understand.
The downfall to me was the stress between the new Amish community and their country town neighbors. It was just one thing too many and really just made the non-Amish neighbors seem like complete jerks (with the exception of one or two). It was over-stereotyping and I just didn't seem to enjoy that little bit of the story.
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**
October 18, 2013
We join some of the folks from Bliss Creek as they start their new life in The New Hope Amish community. If you read the first series (Bliss Creek) you will recognize and remember many of the characters. I enjoyed the book very much. While I am not a huge fan of continuing novels, I do enjoy meeting up with familiar characters. This is not a continuing novel, it will stand alone, but it does help to understand what is going on if you have read the Bliss Creek books.
I did find myself having to go back and read sections over again, because there are so many characters it can get a bit confusing. That being said, I enjoyed the book, and cried my way through it. There should be a tissue warning at the beginning. My heart broke as Leah dealt with the unknown issues and depression she was dealing with due to postpartum depression. My heart broke for Luke, who tried to understand his wife and balance the responsibilities of being the new bishop for The New Hope community. I wanted to shake Bethel at times, and at times I cried as she tried to figure out what she wanted from life, and what she felt like God wanted from her. This book will make you eager for the next installment of The New Hope Amish. A great story, with a beautiful ending. 4 stars! This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
I did find myself having to go back and read sections over again, because there are so many characters it can get a bit confusing. That being said, I enjoyed the book, and cried my way through it. There should be a tissue warning at the beginning. My heart broke as Leah dealt with the unknown issues and depression she was dealing with due to postpartum depression. My heart broke for Luke, who tried to understand his wife and balance the responsibilities of being the new bishop for The New Hope community. I wanted to shake Bethel at times, and at times I cried as she tried to figure out what she wanted from life, and what she felt like God wanted from her. This book will make you eager for the next installment of The New Hope Amish. A great story, with a beautiful ending. 4 stars! This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
January 20, 2015
LOVE STILL STANDS is the first book in Ms. Irwin’s Amish of New Hope series. As another reviewer said, this is a depressing book. The Amish have relocated to an imaginary community in Missouri and are not welcomed by the Englisch. The Englisch seem determined to run the Amish off or kill them off, whichever comes first. Very sad.
Bethel (lovely name) is recovering from another accident and needs the therapy she gets in New Hope to regain her strength—and hopefully she’ll someday teach school again. Elijah is a caregiver, having cared for both his parents. When he volunteers to help with Bethel, she pushes him away, not wanting his pity. Bethel’s sister is bitter and depressed from the move, her husband is the new bishop and stressed and other Amish are struggling, too.
A look at what it might be like to live in a non-welcoming community if you are Amish. Very well written. Full of action. Engaging. But sad.
3.5 stars.
Bethel (lovely name) is recovering from another accident and needs the therapy she gets in New Hope to regain her strength—and hopefully she’ll someday teach school again. Elijah is a caregiver, having cared for both his parents. When he volunteers to help with Bethel, she pushes him away, not wanting his pity. Bethel’s sister is bitter and depressed from the move, her husband is the new bishop and stressed and other Amish are struggling, too.
A look at what it might be like to live in a non-welcoming community if you are Amish. Very well written. Full of action. Engaging. But sad.
3.5 stars.
April 16, 2015
This was a good, safe, easy read. Nothing at all objectionable, but still enough tension to make it interesting.
June 19, 2025
Heartwarming without being cheesy
I loved this book! The characters had real, discernable physical and mental difficulties that didn't magically disappear, like some other books in this genre. Mrs. Irvin always brings us wonderful storied, and so eagerly await her next book!
I loved this book! The characters had real, discernable physical and mental difficulties that didn't magically disappear, like some other books in this genre. Mrs. Irvin always brings us wonderful storied, and so eagerly await her next book!
February 5, 2019
I loved this book!! Great story!! Can't wait to read the next book in the series!! Love this author's books!!
November 27, 2024
A good story with lots of action and tension that made it interesting.
I love anything Kelly Irvin writes.
I love anything Kelly Irvin writes.
February 25, 2014
Bravo for Kelly Irvin! A Great book! A Great read!
Kelly Irvin tackled several very difficult issues in “Love Still Stands” and she handled them all beautifully. I won’t go into so many details that I give the plot away but this book shows us just how human the Amish are and, for me, that makes the book so much more interesting.
Our world seems to have a view of the Amish community that is somewhat skewed – by a lack of knowledge and a feeling of intimidation.
I feel that, far too often, people do not see the Amish as normal or human and I feel that is due in a large part to seeing all that they give up for their faith.
The thing that people do not seem to understand is that, to them, it is not too much. To the Amish, it is not a struggle to give up electricity or vehicles. They are used to that kind of life. And I feel that Kelly shows us a lot of that in this book.
The English people of New Hope do not understand the Amish…at all - but I really feel that a large part of their dislike is rooted in intimidation.
To an outsider it would seem impossible that someone could happily live without electricity or a car but to the Amish, it’s what they have always known.
So, they don’t see it as giving up anything. They see it as normal.
There are several other issues that Kelly tackles in the book and she handles them with grace and skill, showing us that these issues are just as much a part of the Amish life as our own.
I really enjoy watching Bethel as she struggles to get better. Not that I get a kick out of watching how hard it all is for her – I enjoy watching her determination and strength. She does not just sit around, content to wallow in self-pity. She goes after healing and there is a lot of hard work involved.
I also greatly enjoy seeing her faith in God and how strong it is. As much as she accepts God’s will for her life, she is still determined to do everything she can to get better. And I am also relieved to see how Kelly shows the struggle this is for the new community. It’s not a normal type of thing for them and Kelly shows us this in the way their bishop struggles with decisions about her treatment and how the other members of the community react to it. There are several things about Kelly’s rehabilitation that affect their entire community and Kelly has handled that amazingly well. And everything she has written rings absolutely true to me. She has clearly done her research and done it well.
This is a wonderful story of life and the struggles that come with it. It is also a reminder to us that Faith is often the only thing we have to cling to in this tumultuous world.
I thank God that this genre exists. It is so refreshing to pick up a book and know that there is nothing nasty or inappropriate between the pages and it is a tremendous boon to my own faith to see how such a strong people handle their own sometimes-difficult life.
Now I just have to go back and read Kelly’s Bliss Creek series.
Oh and… fair warning, some might find it difficult to get into the story. I did at first. But it didn’t take long at all for the story and the characters to hook me good. It’s a GREAT story!
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Kelly Irvin tackled several very difficult issues in “Love Still Stands” and she handled them all beautifully. I won’t go into so many details that I give the plot away but this book shows us just how human the Amish are and, for me, that makes the book so much more interesting.
Our world seems to have a view of the Amish community that is somewhat skewed – by a lack of knowledge and a feeling of intimidation.
I feel that, far too often, people do not see the Amish as normal or human and I feel that is due in a large part to seeing all that they give up for their faith.
The thing that people do not seem to understand is that, to them, it is not too much. To the Amish, it is not a struggle to give up electricity or vehicles. They are used to that kind of life. And I feel that Kelly shows us a lot of that in this book.
The English people of New Hope do not understand the Amish…at all - but I really feel that a large part of their dislike is rooted in intimidation.
To an outsider it would seem impossible that someone could happily live without electricity or a car but to the Amish, it’s what they have always known.
So, they don’t see it as giving up anything. They see it as normal.
There are several other issues that Kelly tackles in the book and she handles them with grace and skill, showing us that these issues are just as much a part of the Amish life as our own.
I really enjoy watching Bethel as she struggles to get better. Not that I get a kick out of watching how hard it all is for her – I enjoy watching her determination and strength. She does not just sit around, content to wallow in self-pity. She goes after healing and there is a lot of hard work involved.
I also greatly enjoy seeing her faith in God and how strong it is. As much as she accepts God’s will for her life, she is still determined to do everything she can to get better. And I am also relieved to see how Kelly shows the struggle this is for the new community. It’s not a normal type of thing for them and Kelly shows us this in the way their bishop struggles with decisions about her treatment and how the other members of the community react to it. There are several things about Kelly’s rehabilitation that affect their entire community and Kelly has handled that amazingly well. And everything she has written rings absolutely true to me. She has clearly done her research and done it well.
This is a wonderful story of life and the struggles that come with it. It is also a reminder to us that Faith is often the only thing we have to cling to in this tumultuous world.
I thank God that this genre exists. It is so refreshing to pick up a book and know that there is nothing nasty or inappropriate between the pages and it is a tremendous boon to my own faith to see how such a strong people handle their own sometimes-difficult life.
Now I just have to go back and read Kelly’s Bliss Creek series.
Oh and… fair warning, some might find it difficult to get into the story. I did at first. But it didn’t take long at all for the story and the characters to hook me good. It’s a GREAT story!
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2013
4 STARS
This is a brand new series that Kelly Irvin wrote. It's a spinoff of Bliss Creek Amish novels. Which I have not read. But I would like to read more books by Kelly on how much I liked Love Still Stands. Love Still Stands deals with some real issues of postpartum depression, also the struggle with physical therapy.
This group of Amish decided to settle in Missouri where they could buy lots of farm land. They get to their new homes and find that vandals were their first. In Luke and Leah's new home every window was broken and they tried to burn it down from inside, spray painted all over the walls. Made sure they were unwelcomed. The Sheriff when he got their was not helpful but warned them they were not welcomed.
Leah is not happy person. She has 5 children under 10 and did not want to leave Kansas. She is not happy with her sister's health problems. Won't let her do things that she can and is rude to her.
Bethel is a school teacher or was when she got hurt when a storm tore it apart. The doctor did not think she would be able to walk again. She walks with crutches only. She wants to go back to teaching but can't till she gets better. She needs physical therapy. Then maybe her dream of getting married someday and having her own family will happen.
Elijah is helping his family with the move and working on Luke's farm for now. He volunteers to take Bethel into her physical therapy and runs errands for supplies while he waits to drive her back. On the first day they almost get hit by a car. Elijah spent the last 5 years taking care of his parents. He wants his own family soon.
Their is a lot of unwelcome to the Amish moving into town. Some is quite dangerous. They forgive those that cause them ill. Their is a lot of work to do to get their community started. New leaders are chosen. Some are not happy with it but they are willing to do the work they are called to.
Their is a lot of drama, lots of relationships, Lots of characters. Good Plot. It's a clean read. Not preachy just part of the story. I look forward to seeing more books set in New Hope.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
09/01/2013 PUB Harvest House Publishers 352 pages ISBN:0736954937
This is a brand new series that Kelly Irvin wrote. It's a spinoff of Bliss Creek Amish novels. Which I have not read. But I would like to read more books by Kelly on how much I liked Love Still Stands. Love Still Stands deals with some real issues of postpartum depression, also the struggle with physical therapy.
This group of Amish decided to settle in Missouri where they could buy lots of farm land. They get to their new homes and find that vandals were their first. In Luke and Leah's new home every window was broken and they tried to burn it down from inside, spray painted all over the walls. Made sure they were unwelcomed. The Sheriff when he got their was not helpful but warned them they were not welcomed.
Leah is not happy person. She has 5 children under 10 and did not want to leave Kansas. She is not happy with her sister's health problems. Won't let her do things that she can and is rude to her.
Bethel is a school teacher or was when she got hurt when a storm tore it apart. The doctor did not think she would be able to walk again. She walks with crutches only. She wants to go back to teaching but can't till she gets better. She needs physical therapy. Then maybe her dream of getting married someday and having her own family will happen.
Elijah is helping his family with the move and working on Luke's farm for now. He volunteers to take Bethel into her physical therapy and runs errands for supplies while he waits to drive her back. On the first day they almost get hit by a car. Elijah spent the last 5 years taking care of his parents. He wants his own family soon.
Their is a lot of unwelcome to the Amish moving into town. Some is quite dangerous. They forgive those that cause them ill. Their is a lot of work to do to get their community started. New leaders are chosen. Some are not happy with it but they are willing to do the work they are called to.
Their is a lot of drama, lots of relationships, Lots of characters. Good Plot. It's a clean read. Not preachy just part of the story. I look forward to seeing more books set in New Hope.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley.
09/01/2013 PUB Harvest House Publishers 352 pages ISBN:0736954937
November 11, 2013
I had the privilege of reading Kelly Irvin’s newest book, Love Stands Still, in her new series, The New Hope Series. What a great introduction to a new community and yet a chance to reconnect with old friends. In one sense she picks up where we left off before which I love (I love being part of her communities); yet, she starts new adventures, meets new friends, and draws me even closer to God in the process.
Ms. Irvin has a gift of digging deeper, peeling back even more layers from the family I have grown to love and endearing them even closer to my heart. I absolutely love the men in the Shirack family. Luke has grown in maturity since book #1, To Love and to Cherish, that introduced me the Shirack family. I also love how she writes about the men that the Shirack women fall in love with. These are men filled with integrity, grace, and compassion - all traits that are very manly and very much admired. They aren’t perfect; yet they live a life of dedication to their faith, their families, and their community.
I certainly couldn’t put the story down once I started reading it. Not only do I love each person in the community but the storyline was so interesting it kept me turning the pages long after I should have been sleeping.
Ms. Irvin has a special gift of making me want more long after I’ve turned the last page; yet, satisfying my love of feeling as though the story has reached a conclusion. I absolutely love the authenticity Ms. Irvin gives her characters in their relationship with God. It’s a nice blending of respect for God’s laws borne out of a desire to have a close relationship with their Father.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. As always, Ms. Irvin’s books linger in my mind long after I’ve turned the last page. I can’t wait to see what new adventure the Shirack family and their surrounding community will encounter next.
Ms. Irvin has a gift of digging deeper, peeling back even more layers from the family I have grown to love and endearing them even closer to my heart. I absolutely love the men in the Shirack family. Luke has grown in maturity since book #1, To Love and to Cherish, that introduced me the Shirack family. I also love how she writes about the men that the Shirack women fall in love with. These are men filled with integrity, grace, and compassion - all traits that are very manly and very much admired. They aren’t perfect; yet they live a life of dedication to their faith, their families, and their community.
I certainly couldn’t put the story down once I started reading it. Not only do I love each person in the community but the storyline was so interesting it kept me turning the pages long after I should have been sleeping.
Ms. Irvin has a special gift of making me want more long after I’ve turned the last page; yet, satisfying my love of feeling as though the story has reached a conclusion. I absolutely love the authenticity Ms. Irvin gives her characters in their relationship with God. It’s a nice blending of respect for God’s laws borne out of a desire to have a close relationship with their Father.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. As always, Ms. Irvin’s books linger in my mind long after I’ve turned the last page. I can’t wait to see what new adventure the Shirack family and their surrounding community will encounter next.
November 1, 2013
Readers of Kelly Irvin's Bliss Creek Amish novels will be overjoyed to discover her new series for lovers of Amish fiction: The New Hope Amish. In the first installment, Love Still Stands, a group of dedicated families leaves Bliss Creek to establish a new community in Missouri. Among them is Bethel Graber, a beautiful young woman with a passion for teaching. But after being disabled in a terrible accident, overseeing a classroom is out of the question...and romance seems a long-lost dream.
Bethel begins physical therapy, determined to make a fresh start. But that won't be easy in the town of New Hope, where the locals seem anything but eager to welcome their new Amish neighbors. Amid growing intimidation from the community, Bethel must find the strength to face her many challenges and the faith to believe that God still has a plan--and a love--for her life.
My Review:
While this book was not a feel-good, fuzzy/happily ever after type of Amish read, the characters and story are real to life. Not everything has a happy ending, and not everyone finds a pot of gold at the bottom of the rainbow. (Realistically, none of us do.) I have not read Irvin's first series, but based on my research, this is a continuation of the stories told in that set.
Bethel and Elijah are quite likable, and I felt so bad for Bethel as she tries to adjust to her new life. Luke and Leah had some serious issues going on in their lives as well, and it was with Luke I sympathized the most. He tried so hard to understand Leah and be there for her. Leah deals with depression and other problems, and throughout the book, life never stops for any of them. Overall, the best part of the book for me was that it was a new Amish settlement in the Midwest, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Looking forward to more!
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
Bethel begins physical therapy, determined to make a fresh start. But that won't be easy in the town of New Hope, where the locals seem anything but eager to welcome their new Amish neighbors. Amid growing intimidation from the community, Bethel must find the strength to face her many challenges and the faith to believe that God still has a plan--and a love--for her life.
My Review:
While this book was not a feel-good, fuzzy/happily ever after type of Amish read, the characters and story are real to life. Not everything has a happy ending, and not everyone finds a pot of gold at the bottom of the rainbow. (Realistically, none of us do.) I have not read Irvin's first series, but based on my research, this is a continuation of the stories told in that set.
Bethel and Elijah are quite likable, and I felt so bad for Bethel as she tries to adjust to her new life. Luke and Leah had some serious issues going on in their lives as well, and it was with Luke I sympathized the most. He tried so hard to understand Leah and be there for her. Leah deals with depression and other problems, and throughout the book, life never stops for any of them. Overall, the best part of the book for me was that it was a new Amish settlement in the Midwest, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Looking forward to more!
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2014
Amish schoolteacher Bethel Graber suffers a life changing injury during a storm at her school. Bethel joins her sister Leah's family and others as they move to New Hope, Missouri to establish a new Amish community.
Settling into life in a new community is not what anyone expected. They are met with prejudice by the townspeople who always seem cold, distant and unwelcoming. Many acts of vandalism and harm are inflicted on the Amish newcomers from the community.
Bethel tries to recover from her injuries by attending physical therapy sessions.There she meets Englischers and takes part in an emotional support group as well. She feels that these people understand her physical struggles and they get a glimpse into her faith as well.
Elijah Christner becomes her friend when he is asked to take her to these sessions. He is a single Amish man who is helping at his brothers farm.
Bethel is torn between getting well, wondering if she will find love, will that love be with Elijah and also dealing with Sean, a member of the support group.
Also in the book is the issue of Bethel's sister Leah's postpartum depression. Bethel tries to help her sister and Leah's husband Luke seems to not acknowledge there is a problem. Conflict over what help is needed and how to deal with this occurs in the story.
This book deals with many issues that you might not ordinarily think of when you read an Amish novel.
This book has lots of characters and families which I did find a little confusing at first. The author has included a family tree page in the beginning of the book.
I loved that Bethel had great faith and didnt blame God for her circumstances. She always tried to be better instead of bitter and make the best of her situation and never gave up.
Settling into life in a new community is not what anyone expected. They are met with prejudice by the townspeople who always seem cold, distant and unwelcoming. Many acts of vandalism and harm are inflicted on the Amish newcomers from the community.
Bethel tries to recover from her injuries by attending physical therapy sessions.There she meets Englischers and takes part in an emotional support group as well. She feels that these people understand her physical struggles and they get a glimpse into her faith as well.
Elijah Christner becomes her friend when he is asked to take her to these sessions. He is a single Amish man who is helping at his brothers farm.
Bethel is torn between getting well, wondering if she will find love, will that love be with Elijah and also dealing with Sean, a member of the support group.
Also in the book is the issue of Bethel's sister Leah's postpartum depression. Bethel tries to help her sister and Leah's husband Luke seems to not acknowledge there is a problem. Conflict over what help is needed and how to deal with this occurs in the story.
This book deals with many issues that you might not ordinarily think of when you read an Amish novel.
This book has lots of characters and families which I did find a little confusing at first. The author has included a family tree page in the beginning of the book.
I loved that Bethel had great faith and didnt blame God for her circumstances. She always tried to be better instead of bitter and make the best of her situation and never gave up.
January 23, 2014
A book about family, community, patience, and forgiveness. A group of families have decided to move to a new established community in Missouri. Since the Amish are very peaceful people, they don't understand why the people in the community don't like them, and continue to vandalize their property. Bethel Graber, one of the girls that had moved to Missouri is a young woman who puts God first and lives her life according to Amish Law. She has a passion for teaching, but since the accident that left her unable to walk without crutches, she is not able to oversee a classroom. While Bethel struggles with patience in the slow process of recovery, she begins to meet people of the community. At first they make fun of her but begin to slowly learn what a sweet and caring woman she is.
This is a very sweet book. I really enjoyed reading about Bethel's family and I felt as though I were on the farm with them. Elijah is a strong and willful man who is afraid of rejection which his mixed signals really confuse Bethel. The author is knowledgeable about the Amish way of life and it is well shown through this book. I love the fact that Luke is respectful and welcoming to the English who are nothing but rude to him. He shows the true meaning of forgiveness. I really enjoyed this book and would be interested in reading more by this author.
I received a copy of this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
This is a very sweet book. I really enjoyed reading about Bethel's family and I felt as though I were on the farm with them. Elijah is a strong and willful man who is afraid of rejection which his mixed signals really confuse Bethel. The author is knowledgeable about the Amish way of life and it is well shown through this book. I love the fact that Luke is respectful and welcoming to the English who are nothing but rude to him. He shows the true meaning of forgiveness. I really enjoyed this book and would be interested in reading more by this author.
I received a copy of this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
September 19, 2016
What would you do if you moved all your belongings to another town to start over — only to find the house vandalized — and no one welcomed you . . . this is just what happens when Bethel Graber’s brother Luke moves his family to a new town.
In the last book of The Bliss Creek Amish series, Luke had decided to move his family to the new settlement, along with several other families. I love how The New Hope Amish series begins where the other stopped . . . as if almost no time at all has passed.
Unfortunately, Luke and his family aren’t welcomed with loving arms by the community. Just the opposite, in fact. Even the sheriff pretty much tells them to “go back where they belong.”
What a predicament!
Kelly Irvin does an amazing job creating a new series, yet making it seem like the first series is continuing on . . . and we get to keep some of the characters from the first series that we’ve grown to love, plus add a few we aren’t quite certain we’re going to like — or not.
Will the Amish of Bliss Creek survive in New Hope? Who knows! Will Bethany ever be able to overcome her disabilities? Well, if you want to find out, pick up a copy of Love Still Stands and read it. If you’ve read The Bliss Creek Amish series, it’ll be like “coming home again.”
Happy reading!
March 20, 2013
What a great book! I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster throughout this book and seesawing between understanding Bethel's points and needs and Elijah's.
Bethel thinks she is unworthy of being loved because of her handicap and finds understanding in her support group which Elijah doesn't understand. To him it is black and white - I love her, does she love me. But in Bethel's mind she will never be a whole woman again and finds there are people in her support group, one in particular, who understand her fears and weaknesses. Will Elijah eventually understand? Can they build a life together? Does she even want to or would she rather pursue a relationship with an Englisher who understands her?
The author does a very good job of letting the reader see the and feel the emotions from Bethel, Elijah, and others in the book. There are a few twists and turns I wasn't expecting that made me keep turning pages long into the night. I highly recommend this book.
Bethel thinks she is unworthy of being loved because of her handicap and finds understanding in her support group which Elijah doesn't understand. To him it is black and white - I love her, does she love me. But in Bethel's mind she will never be a whole woman again and finds there are people in her support group, one in particular, who understand her fears and weaknesses. Will Elijah eventually understand? Can they build a life together? Does she even want to or would she rather pursue a relationship with an Englisher who understands her?
The author does a very good job of letting the reader see the and feel the emotions from Bethel, Elijah, and others in the book. There are a few twists and turns I wasn't expecting that made me keep turning pages long into the night. I highly recommend this book.
March 10, 2014
As the Amish believe, GOD has a time for everything big and small. I can truly say that HE had had a hand in me reading this book when I did. I needed to read the message that was in this book for my own better good.
GOD having a plan is one of the many messages in this book. Along with admitting when one needs help and not to feel bad that you have asked for help. Asking for help is not a weakness. Change takes time for everyone involved in those that are not your immediate family members but community members as well. Fight for what you want within reason.
My first time reading anything written by Kelly Irvin and I am ever a happy reader for reading this book.
I am looking forward into reading the rest of this series by Kelly Irvin and her other Amish books too.
GOD having a plan is one of the many messages in this book. Along with admitting when one needs help and not to feel bad that you have asked for help. Asking for help is not a weakness. Change takes time for everyone involved in those that are not your immediate family members but community members as well. Fight for what you want within reason.
My first time reading anything written by Kelly Irvin and I am ever a happy reader for reading this book.
I am looking forward into reading the rest of this series by Kelly Irvin and her other Amish books too.
January 27, 2018
Seven families leave Bliss Creek to start a new settlement in Missouri. The families welcome to New Hope is far from welcoming. The people of New Hope do not know anything about the Amish or have a desire to know these people that dress peculiar.
Bethel Graber, her sister Leah and Leah's husband Luke and 5 children were part of the new community. Bethel had been involved in a freak accident that ended her job as a teacher. She still needs physical therapy to ever hope to have normal movement again. Luke is called to Bishop for the new district.
There are many trials and tribulations for these seven families trying to settle in especially Bethel who needs to attend physical therapy in a town not anxious for Amish neighbors. This is a story of faith, endurance and most of how love can bridge even the worst gap. God has a plan for each of us.
This is a good start for a new series.
Bethel Graber, her sister Leah and Leah's husband Luke and 5 children were part of the new community. Bethel had been involved in a freak accident that ended her job as a teacher. She still needs physical therapy to ever hope to have normal movement again. Luke is called to Bishop for the new district.
There are many trials and tribulations for these seven families trying to settle in especially Bethel who needs to attend physical therapy in a town not anxious for Amish neighbors. This is a story of faith, endurance and most of how love can bridge even the worst gap. God has a plan for each of us.
This is a good start for a new series.
October 16, 2013
I connected with Bethel immediately--a long car trip stuck between two car-seats equals discomfort for even the most able-bodied. From there on, it was easy to see and feel everything through her eyes.
Kelly Irvin made reading Love Still Stands so enjoyable, I just didn't want to put it down. I went so far as to get up more than an hour before my normal wake-up time because I couldn't get the story out of my head. :)
Bethel's struggle in a new place came to life on the pages, as did the other characters'.
To be honest, before reading this story, I was reluctant to read "another" Amish novel, but this one was so different and refreshing, it has encouraged me to continue reading in this genre.
***I received this book from the author/publisher for the purpose of review. The above is my honest opinion.***
Kelly Irvin made reading Love Still Stands so enjoyable, I just didn't want to put it down. I went so far as to get up more than an hour before my normal wake-up time because I couldn't get the story out of my head. :)
Bethel's struggle in a new place came to life on the pages, as did the other characters'.
To be honest, before reading this story, I was reluctant to read "another" Amish novel, but this one was so different and refreshing, it has encouraged me to continue reading in this genre.
***I received this book from the author/publisher for the purpose of review. The above is my honest opinion.***
April 16, 2014
Kelly Irvin's first book of the New Hope Amish series takes us on a journey of new beginnings. A group of families is about to embark on the exciting task of creating a settlement in a new state. From the moment they arrive they are beset with difficulty and unforeseen challenges. The group hasn't had to deal with many of these challenges before and it will stretch their faith in places they never expected.
I admire Irvin's ability to capture the reality of Amish life vs. Englisch, comparing the different belief sets in a way that is compassionate to both sides...
I read the first two books of this series out of order, and I didn't find it mattered. The books deal with different families. I definitely recommend this series, and plan to continue reading more of Kelly Irvin's books!
I admire Irvin's ability to capture the reality of Amish life vs. Englisch, comparing the different belief sets in a way that is compassionate to both sides...
I read the first two books of this series out of order, and I didn't find it mattered. The books deal with different families. I definitely recommend this series, and plan to continue reading more of Kelly Irvin's books!
November 11, 2013
Bethel Graber has lost her greatest passion—teaching—and perhaps her chance for romance with Elijah Christner in a terrible accident. Several families move to New Hope to start a new community where Bethel lives with her brother and his family. Because she’s unable to walk without using crutches, Bethel is unable to help the family. She wants no one’s pity or help, especially from Elijah. He wants to help her but doesn’t understand why she won’t let him. Kelly Irvin gives us a sweet love story that meets obstacles around every bend because of Bethel’s desire for independence and Elijah’s stubbornness. Will they lean on God’s love to help their situation before they argue and make up for the last time? A story and characters you’ll remember long after you turn the last page.
April 14, 2023
I really enjoyed the many wonderful characters from the Bliss Creek series so I was anxious to read about their new settlement in New Hope though I was dismayed at the prejudice Luke and his family face upon their arrival. With faith and forgiveness in their hearts the new community struggles with adversity and vandalism along with the emotional struggles of Luke’s wife Leah who has postpartum depression. Her story is compelling as is Bethel’s slow rehabilitation process after she broke her back during the extreme weather event at school in Bliss Creek. I admired the steadfast faith and the emotional resilience of these wonderful characters as well as the romance that flourishes between Bethel and Elijah. I’m looking forward to reading more!
October 13, 2013
I’ve only read a few different Amish authors, and I have to say KELLY IRVIN is my favorite thus far. She writes well, with a good storyline.
LOVE STILL STANDS (THE NEW HOPE AMISH) by KELLY IRVIN is the first in a The New Hope Amish series. If you’ve read the books in the Bliss Creek series, you’ll recognize some of the characters.
Bethel Graber, along with several others, leaves Bliss Creek to establish a new community in Missouri. Bethel has hopes and dreams, but faces many challenges that she’ll need to trust God more than ever with.
*Please see my profile for more information on this review.
LOVE STILL STANDS (THE NEW HOPE AMISH) by KELLY IRVIN is the first in a The New Hope Amish series. If you’ve read the books in the Bliss Creek series, you’ll recognize some of the characters.
Bethel Graber, along with several others, leaves Bliss Creek to establish a new community in Missouri. Bethel has hopes and dreams, but faces many challenges that she’ll need to trust God more than ever with.
*Please see my profile for more information on this review.
September 26, 2015
After the roller coaster ride the last novel I read gave me, I greatly appreciated the peacefulness of an Amish novel. This was an interesting novel based primarily on the premise of what it would look like if a community weren't accepting of a new Amish community moving in and what that prejudice would cause in terms of minor persecution along with the inevitable romance being the main plot device. I really enjoyed the characters in this novel some of whom were unusual to an Amish novel, making the novel more unique and interesting. It was a well written novel, and I look forward to reading the rest of this trilogy and possibly the trilogy that prequels it.
June 21, 2017
Love Still Stands is the first book of Kelly Irvin’s new series, The New Hope Amish. Bethel Graber and her sister Leah and family have moved to New Hope, Missouri, along with a few other families and are eagerly ready to begin a new community of Amish. They are not exactly greeted with open arms from the town’s people. This town does not want newcomers, especially if they are different to come into their town and change their way of life.
For more of my review go to www.rebakaspot.blogspot.com
For more of my review go to www.rebakaspot.blogspot.com
November 30, 2019
Love Still Stands is not the typical Amish read. Bethel Graber and her sister Leah are not happy to be uprooted from their Bliss Creek Community to the start of an Amish community in New Hope. Bethel struggles with her physical injury while trying to assist her sister and husband with five children. The reception for the Amish families was not welcoming. There are unpredictable actions and even separation of the new elected Bishop Luke and Leah. Can Bethel truly overcome and have the longings of her heart fulfilled? Will New Hope gain a respect of the Amish before more disaster hit?
July 24, 2014
I really liked this story, although it was not a happy story. Having suffered from chronic depression for years, I could certainly relate to Leah. I felt so bad for her. Still it was a good story with a happy ending. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, Love Redeemed.
October 8, 2016
Love Still Stands
I love reading Kelly Irvin books. The characters are real and in this series they are just moving to Missouri. This book deals with the losses of home , health and mental health. Tough subjects that were handled well. Most of all the amish showed the love of God by turning the other cheek on several occasions. Which made their neighbors think twice about how they were treating them. Great story
I love reading Kelly Irvin books. The characters are real and in this series they are just moving to Missouri. This book deals with the losses of home , health and mental health. Tough subjects that were handled well. Most of all the amish showed the love of God by turning the other cheek on several occasions. Which made their neighbors think twice about how they were treating them. Great story
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