Serenity's Secret

The Heart of the Amish #6

by Lisa Jones Baker

Serenity Holds Her Secrets Close
 
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
 
Serenity Miller has much to love about life as the owner of The Pink Petal in Arthur, Illinois, and enjoys trying natural remedies and exploring garage sales. Then comes the day her neighbor, Stephen Lantz, saves her from trespassers on her property and their friendship deepens into an attraction Serenity knows can never lead to marriage. She holds secrets she can never divulge, despite Stephen’s way of wooing her. But how can Serenity return to her life of contentment after a taste of love? And when danger returns, will it steal her last hope for a bright future?
 
Other books in the Heart of the Amish
The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele
Ruth’s Ginger Snap Surprise by Anne Blackburne
The Quilt Room Secret by Lisa Jones Baker
Courting the Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele
Mary's Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne
 

Genres: Amish

261 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

Lisa Jones Baker grew up near a small Amish town in Illinois that she frequented with her family on weekends. She's also a dog lover and a fan of Scottsdale, Arizona, where she spent nearly two decades. Lisa graduated from Illinois State University with a French major, has been on 5 out of 7 continents, and considers her parents the best in the world. Raised in a Christian home, Lisa has always been blessed with love and support.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Serenity’s Secret, Lisa Jones Baker invites us into the heart of Amish country, weaving a tale rich with faith, hope, and unexpected romance. Serenity Miller, the owner of The Pink Petal in Arthur, Illinois, finds joy in simple pleasures, from exploring natural remedies to scouring garage sales. However, her life takes an emotional turn when her neighbor, Stephen Lantz, steps in to protect her from trespassers on her property, leading their friendship to blossom into something deeper.

What makes this story shine is the sweet romance intertwined with the complexities hidden within Serenity’s heart. She carries a heavy secret that shapes her decisions and understanding of love. Serenity’s journey serves as a poignant reminder that “there’s good in every situation … pay close attention, or you’ll miss the lesson that life teaches us.” Her struggles echo the truth that life isn’t perfect, and neither are people.

The impact of Serenity’s secret, along with the cozy mystery woven throughout, keeps the reader engaged. Gentle reminders of faith, love, contentment, and forgiveness resonate beautifully, providing a backdrop for reflections on trusting God’s plan, even when circumstances feel overwhelming. As Serenity confronts external threats and her internal battles, the narrative illustrates the transformative power of love.

Stephen emerges as a protective figure, balancing strength with tenderness, offering the reassurance Serenity needs. Their connection beautifully highlights how love can bloom in unexpected places and inspire the courage to share our secrets.

As both Serenity and Stephen confront their fears and vulnerabilities, the truth of 1 Peter 5:7—“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you”—comes to mind. They learn to surrender their burdens to God, letting go of preconceived notions and personal dreams. Through this process, they embrace the support offered by one another and God's guidance, which helps them flourish amid challenges and leads them toward a deeper understanding of His true plan for their lives.

Overall, Serenity’s Secret is a delightful read filled with warmth and authenticity. Baker crafts a narrative that speaks to the heart, celebrating the beauty of friendship, romance, and the importance of family and community. I found myself swept away in Serenity’s world; her journey is one I won’t soon forget. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of Amish fiction and anyone seeking a story that intertwines faith, love, and the courage to share secrets with those you love and trust.

I received a digital ARC of Serenity’s Secret from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity Miller has been accosted by trespassers. Fortunately, her neighbor, Stephen Lantz, showed up at just the right time. Serenity, as well as her dear parents, are beyond grateful. Perhaps that is when the spark was lit between these young people, but there will no doubt be obstacles that get in the way with regard to their future together.

But, romance is the furthest thing from Serenity’s mind, as after her recovery from a very serious illness, she has a dream. Serenity has always dreamed of opening her own flower shop. She feels like she has been blessed by God more than once, and she continues in her strong faith. However, while holding a secret close to her heart, Serenity is trying not to be frozen by fear.

While holding a secret close to her heart, Serenity is determined not to let fear paralyze her. Stephen and Serenity are both kind and compassionate individuals, and their story showcases the deep bond they share with their families and friends. However, I particularly enjoyed the gradual development of their romantic relationship. In our fast-paced world, it is refreshing to witness a slow-burning romance that allows for a deeper connection between the characters.

Although I have not read the previous books in this series, I am thoroughly impressed with Amish fiction and this particular story. It has become one of my favorites, and I eagerly really would like to read the other books in the series.

Many thanks to Barbour Publishing and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Megan Rang · Rating 5 out of 5]

*****I received this free ARC ebook from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

This was a great Amish story. It had a bit of everything! It had mystery, secrets and of course love. I really enjoyed how it was all intertwined throughout the story. A fantastic read!

[Sarah Woodhouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just absolutely love these Heart of the Amish books and this one was no exception. I find them fascinating and heartwarming all at the same time. This one was especially close to my heart as her secret relates to me as well. You feel for Serenity so very much. She's the epitome of kindness, patience, and strength.

After all the challenges that she has already went through in her life and then to have what happened to her in the barn happen? That would have broken a lot of other people. Not Serenity though. She chooses to use it to fuel her faith in God and to keep having hope. I admire her a lot for that. Not everyone would be able to do that.

I especially loved her friends. They clearly love and adore each other. It's something that I myself wish for and do not yet have. You can feel how they care for one another. I especially loved her parents and Steven as well.

He is so protective of her, and I love that in a man. Yes, things happen and maybe he didn't handle things right at first, but he is only human like the rest of us. I respect him for going out of his road to try and fix things.

Overall, just another wonderful addition to this book series. I hope the stories keep coming.

Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Lisa Jones Baker for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are my own and are completely honest.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has been a very nice story where two people learn how to forgive and trust. Serenity is a delightful character who has this special bond with a horse. I loved how the horse could sense when something was wrong. It was sweet to see that Serenity adored her horse and believed it knew when danger was near. Her love for flowers and plants make her a gifted florist . The community loves her stunning designs as the flowers blend together to bring joy to others.

Stephen is a man who adores Serenity and wants very much for their relationship to move forward. He feels like her protector and when danger comes her way, he blames himself for not being there to rescue her. I liked that he was determined to find out who attacked her. The mystery about the men who attacked Serenity upsets the community. Will they come back to harm others?

Midway through the story I figured out what the men were after but still didn’t know why. We learn how greed and secrets can be harmful in this story. Serenity has kept a secret from Stephen which could cause him to not want to continue their relationship. I loved how the author illustrates that God is there when you need Him. As our main characters rely on their faith we see a slow change of becoming more faithful and to trust God to keep them safe. Great story with a wonderful ending.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Amish fiction is my favorite genre, and Lisa Jones Baker is becoming a favorite author! There's intrigue, a mystery, and a friend's to lovers romance. The mystery really kept me guessing until the end!

There are familiar characters from the previous books. The characters are well developed and easy to like. I enjoy reading about the friendship of Trini, Abby, and Serenity. Their support and love for each other is comforting. My favorite character, though, has to be Angel the horse! His personality is epic, and his love for Serenity is apparent to everyone.

I hope a story for Abby is coming soon! I certainly am looking forward to reading more books by this author!

[J.E. Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret has mystery, suspense, and a wholesome clean romance. Serenity Miller is saved from an attack in her barn by Stephen Lantz. Being friends for a long time, their lives are about to change.

The Amish life in the story is well-written and the everyday life of their dedication to God and hard work is inspirational. I liked the way the characters strengths and flaws are both laid out for the reader. Lots of surprises in the story that kept me turning the pages. Everything wrapped up nicely in the end.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Shelby · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. It was my first Amish story and was a cute read. I enjoyed following the characters throughout the plot and liked the little details that wove the story together.

[Connie Cassell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity hid secrets from her friends about her health. She wanted nothing more than to run her store and have her friends come visit her. She had a health problem when she was younger, and not many people thought she would live, but she surprised them and ended up owning a store she ran by herself. Her two friends she had known since she was small always told her she could do anything she wanted too. She fell in love with Stephen, but was afraid to Mary him because of her secret. He loved her enough that he didn’t care about her secret, he just wanted her to be his wife, and live the rest of his life with her! This is a book that is well worth reading to find out what Serenity’s secret actually was!!

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book by Lisa Jones Baker. I was surprised to learn that Serenity had more than one secret-she had two and it was definitely not what I thought they would be. A suspenseful Amish love story, it has you guessing as to why this sweet Amish girl was attacked in her own barn when she didn’t have any enemies. Would she be able to identify her attackers or would she and the town she lived in constantly be in fear? The storyline is a constant reminder of faith and forgiveness. I highly recommend this book. I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All words are my own.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

Serenity Holds Her Secrets Close
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Serenity Miller has much to love about life as the owner of The Pink Petal in Arthur, Illinois, and enjoys trying natural remedies and exploring garage sales. Then comes the day her neighbor, Stephen Lantz, saves her from trespassers on her property and their friendship deepens into an attraction Serenity knows can never lead to marriage. She holds secrets she can never divulge, despite Stephen’s way of wooing her. But how can Serenity return to her life of contentment after a taste of love? And when danger returns, will it steal her last hope for a bright future?
This is Serenity Miller and Stephen Lantz's story.
Only Gott knew her secret. For some reason, it played heavily on her mind today. Serenity Miller wasn’t sure why. Perhaps it was because of the gusty wind that continuously picked up speed and its low, eerie whistle as it met the cracks in her tall, old barn in Arthur, Illinois.
Maybe it was due to the strong flashes of bright lightning that made loud crackling noises. Or the root of her uneasiness could have something to do with the unique smell of rain and damp air—nature’s obvious signals that a May downpour would start any second.
Before sunrise, Stephen Lantz stepped to the side of the blacktop that led from the Lantz house to Serenity’s and walked toward her home. As usual, he made his way to the side entrance. He knocked. And hummed.
No answer. He knocked louder. Still nothing. He turned to face her shed and glimpsed Serenity’s buggy through the large window.
She’s not inside. I’ll check her barn.
Behind the bales, he spotted Serenity face down on the floor.
Immediately, he knelt next to her and began to untie the face covering. She fought.
His voice shook when he attempted to reassure her. “It’s okay, Serenity. It’s me. It’s Stephen! I’m going to roll you over so that you’re face up. Here.”
I recommend this book.
Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Lisa Jones Baker.

[Carla Bruns · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Serenity's Secret, the sixth book in The Heart of the Amish series, I jumped in without reading the earlier books, and even though I usually dislike constant reminders in a series, it worked out this time. The pacing was slow ant first, and it took me five days to finish, which is longer than usual for me. I was busy during those days, so it probably would have been more like a three-day read under normal circumstances. As I read more, I found myself getting drawn into the story. Early on, I thought I had figured out Serenity's secret, but I was completely surprised by the ending! It was so well done that I’m now considering going back to read the previous five books.

The relationship between Serenity and Stephen is sweet, slowly evolving from friendship, which is one of my favorite tropes because it feels more believable. At one point, Trini (secondary character) mentions that when something bad happens to one of the women, the guy falls for them. Nothing like mentioning the trope within the story.

The story had a bit of suspense in it with the trespassers on Serenity’s property. Although I was confused about why this would even play out this way eventually Baker explained everything and it all made sense.

Because this is part of a series, there are many secondary characters, but they were easy to follow thanks to the reminders of who they are. Trini plays a pretty major role in the story and her predicament helps Stephen with some of his thinking about Serenity.

As a Midwesterner myself, I appreciated that the book is set in Arthur, Illinois. By the end of the book, I was hooked on the series and Baker. I can’t wait to read more!

Thank you to Barbour Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Sally Mander · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars, An Angel saves the day!

SERENITY'S SECRET: THE HEART OF THE AMISH BOOK 6
by Lisa Jones Baker

Serenity Miller is an adult Amish woman who lives by herself in Arthur, Illinois, and owns a local flower shop. Her neighbor and good friend is single, Amish man Stephen Lantz. They help each other with different stuff, on their farms.

Stephen would like to be more than friends, but he's not sure that Serenity is ready for more, yet. He rescues Serenity from strangers who have held her hostage in her own barn. This makes Stephen want to rescue Serenity in more ways.

Serenity has a close, loving relationship with Angel, her rescue horse. Angel is quite definitive about who he likes and doesn't like. If he doesn't like you, you are likely to be trod upon or even bitten!

Serenity has a secret, at least one that she keeps even from her besties Trini and Abby. Some secrets are meant to be shared, Serenity will have to decide what to do with her secrets.

This novel has a lot of mystery that is divulged at the end, secrets, faith, and love all that make this a story worth reading.

Serenity, Stephen, and Stephen's Aendi Margaret are all wonderful characters.

I have read all of the books in this series, they are all wonderful. Highly recommend any of them. Each story is a completed standalone. There are little snippets of Pennsylvania Dutch sprinkled throughout the book.

I received a complimentary copy of #SerenitysSecrets by #LisaJonesBaker from #BarbourBooks #NetGalley#BarbourFiction I was not obligated to post a review.

#AmishFiction #Horses #Mystery #romance #standalonebookseries #inspirational #Christianfiction #PennsylvaniaDutch #TheHeartOfTheAmishSeries

[Debra Gaynor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity’s Secret (The Heart of the Amish, 6)
Lisa Jones Baker
Genre: Amish Mystery, Romance
Readers are fascinated with the Amish life; I believe it is because deep down inside we all want a simpler lifestyle and a deeper walk with the Lord; perhaps we desire the innocence that we see in the Amish books.
1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Our main characters are sweet but flawed. Like all of us they have things that bother them, things they aren’t proud of. Serenity Miller lives alone in Arthur, Illinois, where she owns the Pink Petal, a flower shop. She enjoys the simple things in life. Serenity has faced adversities that would have broken a lesser woman. She has taken the challenges life has thrown at her and used them to draw closer to the Lord. Serenity is blessed with friends and family that love her dearly.
Stephen Lantz is Serenity’s neighbor. He is interested in more than friendship, but he isn’t sure Serenity is ready for a relationship. They help each other out as needed. When some men hold her hostage in her barn, Stephen comes to her rescue. He wants to take care of her. What begins as a friendship turns into so much more. However, Serenity has a secret, she allows the secret to influence her thoughts and her choices. Readers watch as Serenity comes to terms with her secret. She learns that even what we perceive as a storm will Passover and there will be sunshine again. Stephen is the perfect mate for Serenity; he has an inner strength that she can depend on.
This is the sixth book in this series however, it stands well alone.
I received a copy of this book for review from NetGalley.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 stars ~ Genre: Amish Mystery ~ Pages: 261 ~ Publish Date: 1 Oct 2024

Serenity has a secret. She is almost a recluse except for owning The Pink Petal Flower Shop. When not there, she is at home—alone, with her doors locked. She lives with the knowledge that she can never marry and never have even one sweet bobbli.

But recently something has been happening on her property. Could it be trespassers? Or is it someone with more sinister motives? A neighbor has been showing up doing such chores as chopping wood. Or repairing something. She stays hidden. But one day, she is attacked and this same kind neighbor saves her from further harm.

The neighbor, Stephen Lantz, also carries a private burden. And somehow, these two hurting people grow to be friends.

“Serenity’s Secret” is a poignant story and sixth in the ‘The Heart of the Amish‘ series. Serenity is first introduced in the third book, “The Quilt Room Secret", also by Lisa Jones Baker. However, book six can be read without having read “The Quilt Room Secret". You will enjoy this story as Serenity does have a reason to lock her doors. And Stephen is right, there is something very wrong and she needs protecting.

I received a complimentary DRC of “Serenity’s Secret” via NetGalley from the publisher, Barbour Publishing | Barbour Fiction. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 5 stars
Series: The Heart of the Amish, book 6
Cover: Poignant
Pages: 261
Publish Date: 1 October 2024
#SerenitysSecret #NetGalley #LisaJonesBaker

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker, book six in the Heart of the Amish series, is an enjoyable and sweet story where two people learn how to forgive and trust. Serenity Miller had a major health problem as a teen; so seriously ill, few people thought she would live. As a result, the illness has affected her future, one that could seriously be a problem for an Amish woman. She has told no one, not even her closest friends, about this; keeping it a secret. She enjoys running her flower shop, visiting with her friends, while she lives alone. Serenity was confronted by trespassers and left tied up in her barn. Fortunately, her neighbor, Stephen Lantz, showed up at just the right time. Stephen adores Serenity and wants to move their relationship forward. Serenity is in love with Stephen, but afraid to marry him because of her secret. Once he learned the secret, he had to convince Serenity that he loved her enough and didn’t care about her secret; he just wanted her to be his wife, and live the rest of his life with her. Together, they will face Serenity’s health issue, as well as keep her safe in case those trespassers return. Between prayer, forgiveness, acceptance and love, Serenity and Stephan will find a way to a life together.

Maybe because I enjoy reading Amish stories, I was able to figure out Serenity’s secret early on. The greed and entitlement of the trespassers, along with what they were looking for, was evident early on also. Despite this, I still enjoyed this story and recommend it to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#NetGalley #Forever # BarbourPublishing

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity’s Secret by Lisa Jones Baker is the sixth book in The Heart of the Amish series. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series, but I recommend reading the series in order (it will allow you to get to know the characters and their stories). Serenity’s Secret is well-written and engaging. I like that the character’s are realistic with strengths and flaws. It is nice that the relationship between Serenity and Stephen began as a friendship and slowly developed into something more. Of course, if the pair are to have a future, Serenity must reveal her secret. I liked Serenity’s relationship with her rescue horse, Angel. Angel is a horse who knows who he likes and, more importantly, whom he does not like. Serenity’s family and friends have learned to steer clear of Angel, especially the men. I enjoyed catching up with Trini, Abby, and their families. Abby needs to be less pushy and slow her roll if she plans to push Gabriel into courting her. The story is told from Serenity and Stephen’s point-of-view. This does lead to some repetitive details. There is one scene near the end that had me laughing out loud (it cracked me up). I enjoyed learning about the meaning of the different flowers. It is amazing what you can say with a bouquet of flowers. The story has a sweet ending that left me smiling. I like how Serenity’s Secret combines romance, mystery, hope, suspense, forgiveness, and faith into one pleasing story. Serenity’s Secret is a touching tale with intruders on the farm, a secret shame, the Pink Petal, a rescue horse, a thoughtful family, and facing the future.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity Miller is the owner of the Pink Petal Flower Shop. She lives quite close to the Lantz brothers' home they inherited from their Aendi Margaret. When trespassers invade her property Stephen finds and rescues her. His protective nature kicks in along with the growing love he feels for the woman. But Serenity has a secret. She has determined to stay single because of it.

I received an e-copy of the book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. I am expressing my own personal opinion about this novel. This is the sixth book in the series. Abigail and Trini, her best friends along with the Lantz brothers are in the interesting group of characters.
The author, Lisa Jones Baker, writes about Epstein Barr and how it has affected Serenity's past, present and future after suffering with it as a girl. After the trespass Stephen and Serenity grow closer, but her secret is a barrier. There is a shadow over the community as the culprits are being sought. Why did they pick Serenity's property? Are they still watching? What is Serenity's secret?
I like that Aunt Margaret is still a presence in the story as characters recall things she has said or done that was meaningful in their lives. Information about the Epstein Barr virus is interesting. I didn't realize how devastating is can be. This is a good addition to this series with challenges of life today.
Grief and trauma are felt in the story. Faith is crucial to get past these situations.
I give this a 4.5 rating out of 5. I highly recommend Barbour Publishing for stories of faith, honoring God and clean reads.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Fiction is my favorite Genre of books. Serentity's Secret is Book 6 in The Heart of the Amish Series. The series is written by various authors and they can be stand alone books. I have read the other books in this series and I am excited to read this book!

WOW, I can honestly say this is my favorite book from this series. Serenity Miller and Stephen Lantz are the 2 main characters in this book. Serenity loves her life in the Amish community in Arthur, IL. Garage Sales and Natural things are her focus. Stephen, who has known Serenity since childhood, rescues her from attackers on her property. Their friendship really begins to grow and show more then friends. Serenity feels if she were to reveal a secret or 2 to Stephen, then he would not want more then a friendship. I was encouraged by this storyline. Stephen was so geniune and caring man. He had a heart for Serenity since childhood. Serenity knew what she wanted in life and was successful in her business and around the community. I really LOVE that Stephen wasn't deterred by the secrets that Serenity held. I also really enjoyed the suspense of keeping the secrets until she was ready to reveal. Stephen and Serenity's faith is strong in this book. The book is one of Mystery, Faith, Hope, LOVE and trusting God. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Amish Fiction! FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity’s Secret by Lisa Joe Baker is the sixth book in The Heart of the Amish series. This Amish/Christian Fiction work was enjoyable to read. Serenity Miller loves much about life as the owner of The Pink Petal in Arthur, Illinois. She enjoys exploring natural remedies along with yard sales. But when she deals with trespassers on her land and her neighbor Stephen Lantz rescues her, she faces thoughts and choices that cause her to struggle with her future. She has secrets that must be kept no matter how much Stephen tries to woo her.

Stephen rescues Serenity and imagines a future with her. The author does an excellent job of building the story around the secrets Serenity tries to hide and the secrets of Stephen’s aunt. The author also does a great job of developing the characters.

While you could read this book independently, I recommend reading the books so you fully appreciate Serenity, her friends, their families, and the community. I look forward to reading more books in this series.

So, if you want an Amish/Christian Fiction book, check out Serenity’s Secret by Lisa Joe Baker.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity’s Secret is a fun Amish romance novel with a hint of something more thrown in as well. It’s also part of a series as well. You’re going to love this one. I would say you can read this as a stand-alone novel but it is best read as a series.

Serenity has not had a sweet life. It’s been hard. And even now hard things are happening to her. Things that she doesn’t know why they’re happening. Her neighbor steps in to help her and they form a bond. But can anything happen from it?

This is a sweet book. It’s a romance. It’s a Christian romance as well. But there is also a hint of mystery within as well. And our characters have rough goes of it as well. It’s not all roses and herbal remedies here.

Serenity is a florist and brings people joy from her creations. But when she’s attacked in her barn (and saved by her neighbour) things start moving right along!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity and Stephen are perfect for each other. Furthermore, they have both fallen in love with the other. Why does Serenity push Stephen away whenever he tries to talk about a future together? Could it be her emotional upset from the trauma she just went through?
This is a story of love that goes beyond, superficial, deep into the heart of God and reaches through to others as we love them in return. This is about lasting friendships, strong sibling relationships and a community that comes together to help when needed. This is about believing God can make a way, even when there seems to be no way. Hardships seem to come one after another but the faith of Serenity and Stephen remains strong. Will they eventually be able to drop the barriers surrounding their hearts and surrender to a love they never dreamed possible? Lisa Jones Baker truly touches the heart with this one along with a bit of intrigue and mystery that kept me turning the pages.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to write a review

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in Illinois Amish country, Serenity’s Secret is the sixth book in the multi-author The Heart of the Amish series. There is a lot going on in this story including a whodunit mystery, secrets, and a touching side story. Although a bit predictable, the well-paced plot with well-placed twists kept me reading with interest. A well-crafted cast of characters, featuring a strong yet vulnerable heroine and a protective hero, drive the story. I appreciate the gentle faith lessons on forgiveness and trusting in God’s plan regardless of the circumstances. Amish fiction fans will like and appreciate this story. NOTE: Although there are carry over characters from a previous book in the series, this book can be easily read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Helen]

Serenity's Secret, by Lisa Jones Baker, is the sixth book in The Heart of the Amish series. This is a series that is written by different authors. While the stories contain some of the same characters, this is a great stand alone story. This story focuses on Serenity and her neighbor Stephen. This is a heartwarming story with wonderful characters. I enjoyed how nicely written this story is. It is easy to read and imagine. I enjoyed the humor in the story surrounding Serenity's horse and how it responded to men. The story has mystery and suspense as well with the unknown visitors to her home and why they were there. I found it very heartwarming to see how members of the community come together to make a memorial for Stephen's aunt. This is an enjoyable story of nice characters who rely on their faith and trust in God.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

This touching Amish tale is part of a continuing series, but the book can stand on its own. The three friends featured take up the story where the previous book left off. This novel focuses on Serenity and Stephen and whether they can overcome the challenges standing as a roadblock to a deeper relationship. I was surprised by some things in the book—like when he took off her shoes and socks and rubbed her feet. It doesn’t seem something an Amish man would do even for a close female friend—and in private too. Also, he didn’t seem very nonresistant since he wanted to fight off her attackers and didn’t show the faith and trust readers expect the Amish too. I prefer seeing characters stay true to their church’s teaching. In places the author gives too much unnecessary details that slow the pacing and aren’t needed for the plot. Still, the sweet love story tugs at the heart. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Shilo Goodson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. While it is an Amish book, I didn't feel like it was your typical Amish book. Serenity comes from a less strict Amish community than I've seen portrayed in other Amish books. She has more opportunities than many of the Amish women I've found portrayed in other books, and there wasn't as much of a focus on the simple as I've found in some of the other books about the Amish community. She's allowed to enjoy beauty rather than just focus on life being simple.

The main reason this got only 4 stars and not 5 was that the author made a few things too obvious. I don't want to ruin anything, so I'll just say that I would have liked a little more mystery concerning how things were going to turn out and why Serenity was so secretive about things.

This is a clean book. There's no swearing, sexual content, or graphic violence. The main character does get attacked in her barn, but that doesn't get too graphic.

[Debbie Earls · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret is a really good story. Serenity and Stephen meet and became friends through Stephen's aunt. Serenity becomes ill and was diagnosed with Epstein Barr syndrome. Stephen's Aunt Margaret helped her get through the illness when she was at her worst. Serenity has lasting affects from the illness that she keeps secret from her friends and Stephen. As they grow closer, will Serenity be able to be honest with Stephen and dislose her secret to him? Can she have the courage and honesty to tell him her deepest secret? Will Stephen be able to accept the secret she's holding so tightly to? Can they compromise and have a future together? You will have to read the book to find out! I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to leave a review. #netgalley #barbourpublishing

[EM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret is Book 6 of the series "The Heart of the Amish," by Lisa Jones Baker. It was well written, the characters were endearing & the storyline keeps you interested. Serenity Miller's life as the owner of the Pink Petal is going well until she is found bound & gagged in her barn. As she struggles with why this has happened to her, she is rescued by her neighbor, Stephen Lantz. As they spent time together to try to sort through the events that led up to what happened, Stephen realizes his feelings for Serenity are much more than being friends & neighbors. He wants to be more than just her protector. He doesn't know that Serenity has a secret or two & she isn't ready to let him in the deepest part of her heart. As they continue to work together to solve the mystery in the barn, Stephen hopes he can solve the mystery that is Serenity.

[Janet P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret is the sixth book in The Heart of the Amish Series. Written by Lisa Jones Baker readers will love the flow of the storyline.
When Serenity finds herself attacked and tied up and left on the floor of her barn a mystery ensues that will keep readers guessing as to the why of her attack.
Serenity finds peace among her friends and a young Amish man, Stephen who cares a great deal for her but she is tied down with her floral business and her friends but she is also harboring a secret that could make Stephen change his mind.
I really enjoyed this book very much. It kept me interested and intrigued to find out what secret Serenity held so close to her heart. Very heartwarming. A five star review!
I was given an ARC of this book by Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker is book #6 in The Heart of the Amish series. This is the story of Serenity Miller, Arthur, Illinois' local florist, and Stephen Lantz, a local bean and corn farmer. As their friendship grows, Serenity's secret is tearing them apart. And who are the mysterious men who tied up and gagged Serenity in her barn? Will these issues ever be reslolved so life can go back to normal again?

This was a really fun read to me, as one gets re-acquainted with old friends and makes new ones. And I learned a lot of different things about plants, both health-wise and the different meanings of them. If you're an Amish fiction fan, and you've read other stories in this series, you won't want to miss this one!

Thanks to #NetGalley and #Barbour for an advanced e-pub of this book. All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.

#SerenitysSecret #NetGalley