The Amish Widower's Surprise

by Laurel Blount

They think they’re done with love…

Will working together change their minds?

All widower Eben Miller wants is someone to help him run his general store, but every Amish woman who applies is more interested in marriage than employment. Falling in love again feels impossible for Eben, who needs a worker, not a wife. Straight-talking Lilah Troyer is different. The spinster gave up on finding a husband a long time ago and is desperate for an income to remain independent. She’s even willing to forget Eben’s humiliating rejection of her back in their youth. It’s the perfect solution, until romance comes knocking on their door…

From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Hickory Springs Amish

Book 1: The Amish Widower's Surprise

Genres: Amish Fiction, Amish, Romance

210 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 24, 2024

About the author

Award-winning author Laurel Blount writes captivating romances full of grit and grace—with characters who’ll walk right off the page and into your heart. She lives on a farm in Georgia with her husband, their four fabulous kids, and an assortment of ridiculously spoiled animals. Connect with her at www.laurelblountbooks.com

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this romance of an Amish couple in their forties. Normally romances are the younger or senior citizen couples. I enjoy when men and women are bought together in a book and become attracted to one another. It’s a special time when couples first become smitten with each other and start dating.
Eben Miller and Lila Troyer have known each other since their school years. They got started off on the wrong foot and actually didn’t like each other. Eban is now a widower who has been grieving his late wife for three years. Lilah is a single woman and hasn’t even been on her first date. When Eban needs help in his general store he hires Lilah to fill the position. Lilah has tried to avoid being anywhere near Eban Miller for years but she needs a job in order to pay her rent. Can they actually work together in the same building?
This is the first book in a new series written by Love Inspired Author Laurel Blount. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books in the Hickory Springs Amish series. I thought the book was an easy read with a very good story line. I loved the characters and look forward to getting to know them more as new books in this series are written and released. Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and I love reading this Author’s books.
Readers of Amish fiction will like this book. If you read Love Inspired books you won’t want to miss reading The Amish Widower’s Surprise. It’s scheduled for release on 12/24/24.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are solely my own.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Widower's Surprise is the lovely beginning to a new series set in Hickory Springs, Tennessee. Laurel Blount has a way of creating wonderful, likable and well-developed characters. Lilah is on the verge of forty, an old maidel, and lost her job as a waitress for her outspoken opinions. Eben Miller is a grieving widower and owner of his own general store. Lilah doesn't like Eben but needs the job he offers her. Sparks fly but the two come to a workable relationship with admiration on both sides. Both are drawn to two young needy foster children who frequent the store. This is a sweet story with funny and tender moments and a lovely ending.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review and these are my thoughts.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE by Laurel Blount is not the first book I’ve ever read by Ms. Blount and it certainly won’t be the last! The Two main characters, Eben Miller and Lilah Troyer stole my heart and gained my respect. I really enjoyed the authors writing style and her ability to draw me into the story. Most of the chapters ended in a way that peaked my interest and left me eager to start reading the next one. You won’t be sorry you picked up THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE….your only decision will be which of the author’s other books you want to read next.

Tragedy, forgiveness, love, and other spiritual elements are scattered throughout THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE. Eban is a widower who has been grieving his late wife for three years. He needs help in his store, but all of the women who apply, want a husband not a job. Lilah is a single woman and hasn’t even been on her first date. Both of them are in their forties. Laurel Blount is an amazing writer, conveying every emotion into her characters. Laurel gives her readers a wonderful story of letting go of the past and leaning into the people who are standing by, waiting to help even if when you don’t realize they’ve been there all the time. THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE is not like most Amish stories. It is more like watching the evening news, and then having your heart break for everything these people are going through. I am eager to see what will come next!

THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE is a quick read and un-putdownable! There were quite a few times when reading it that I wanted to reach into the pages and hug a few of these people with what they were feeling and what they were going through. I found myself laughing one second and then tearing up the next. If you are looking for a beautiful emotional story to pull you out of your book slump, you can’t go wrong with THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE.

Laurel Blount is now an author I want to read more of. I loved Eben and Lilah, the primary characters, but I also fell in love with all of the secondary characters as well. Every one of them has an important part to play in this heart tugging story and even though I wanted to reach in and shake one or two of them every now and then, they all weaseled their way into my heart. My emotions were all over the place and I was even reaching for the tissues quite a few times.

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Amish & Mennonite, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Hickory Springs Amish (Book #1)

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eben and Lilah are both older and beyond considering being matched with anyone or “finding love.”
While working together, they annoy each other while renewing their acquaintance... but that's as far as things can go, right?

I really liked these characters and their story.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

After years of being single Amish woman Lilah Troyer has given up her dream of a husband and children. Amish widower Eben Miller needs help in his general store. The women who have applied want a husband not a job. Lilah needs a job and painfully recalls Eben’s rejection when they were younger. Setting aside their doubts Lilah and Eben concoct a plan to see if they can work together. She is not shy about giving her opinion and Eben does not hesitate to let her know when she has crossed the line. Will their arrangement work? Delightful, charming, enjoyable, and enchanting are a few synonyms that describe Author Laurel Blount’s style of writing Amish stories. A definite must-read!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions are my own.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

How refreshing to read a book with a totally different storyline than the others books that came out at the same time. All the characters grab at your heartstrings, especially the young foster children whose paths cross with Lilah and Eben. Such a sweet story that ended a little different than I would have thought, but enjoyable all the same. If you love Amish Genre, this book is a must read. Laurel Blount is an exceptional writer.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. All words are my own.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish widower’s surprise

I loved this story so much. Eben who is a widower needs help at his store. He ask for help from Lilah. She is outspoken, just what he needs but doesn’t realize it. I love the children in the story. I love the characters. Such a well written book. I definitely recommend this book.

I brought the book from Harlequin. Review was not required.

[Heidi Marais · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a phenomenal read! Laurel captured the emotions that any widowed person experiences. I hope she makes this into a series!

[Kim Vizzini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly loved and appreciated this story of love and second Chance as older adults the stubbornness kinda made me laugh truly a well written book.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE by Laurel Blount is the first book in the Hickory Springs Amish series. It’s the fabulous telling of a blooming romance between Lilah Troyer and Eben Miller in the small town of Hickory Springs, Tennessee.

Lilah is 40 years old and never stepped out with anyone or been kissed. Having been overlooked by everyone, she figured her life is meant to be that of a single maedel. She’s looking for ways to support herself so as not to be a burden on her siblings, who already have their houses and hands full. Being good at quilting, she had approached Eben with a business proposition of allowing her to sell her quilts in his shop for a percentage. Disappointed when he declined, but shocked when instead he offered her a job helping tending to his shop. Having recently lost her job, she’s desperate to find means of keeping her room at Susie Raber’s, a friend who herself needs the income, and keeping herself self-sufficient. With no other option, she took the job. Was it a mistake?

Eben is the owner of Miller’s General Store. Although his wife died a few years back, he’s still mourning her. He refused Lilah’s offer mainly because of his refusal to change the area she was suggesting she could use. It would mean taking down his wife’s last unfinished quilt and he’s not ready for that. However, seeing her downcast expression when he declined her offer and realizing she must be in need of funds, he quickly come up with the idea of offering her a job. Presently with no help, he’s hardly keeping up with all that needs done. He’s had help before, but it seems they all thought the job would be the first step to marriage, which wasn’t going to happen. Eben can’t see anyone taking Rose’s place in his heart. With Lilah, he knew he would be safe. He knew she was single, which had to be by her choice, now if he can handle some of her quirky attributes. Having to work with the public and her way of being blunt-spoken speaking what’s on her mind, especially when she disagrees with someone, made him wonder - had he made a mistake in hiring her?
Lilah was determined to do the best job possible. When she saw something that needed done, she didn’t wait to be told to do it. Eben liked her work ethics and how she didn’t need motivation to get things done. He did balk on some of her suggestions on how to improve or what merchandise to carry. Often though after her explanation on why and thinking about it, he could see things with fresh eyes. While they might have started off by thievery, they both enjoyed the visits to the store by the two underprivileged foster kids while they wondered how their foster parents could be so heartless. Taking it upon themselves to be their unofficial aenti and onkel showing them right from wrong, how to be proud of working for what one wants and what it was like to be loved. It was through the children that Eben and Lilah got to spend time together outside of work giving each a chance to see their real self.

When feelings began to resurface for Lilah, she had to remind herself of when they were back in school. Back to when she had allowed her dreams of Eben to be told aloud and those dreams to become public when a thoughtless friend leaked it to others. That’s when Eben had announced loudly, to Rose and to the world, that he wasn’t interested in Lilah – then and ever – crushing her dreams. Plus, as overheard by others, she was old and Eben needs a young maedel that could provide him with a household of children. Eden on the other hand begun to see Lilah in a different light noticing the small things, like the color of her eyes, and big things, like learning she wasn’t single by choice. He was looked forward to times he could spend with her outside of the store, even if it was business oriented.

Dare Lilah dream again or will she wrestle with her heart to do what she feels is best? Can Eden finally put the past behind him and move forward? Is it possible that two neglected little children may be the start of a family foundation? Will they listen to gossip and matchmakers’ dealings or will they listen to their hearts for a second chance?

THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE is a marvelous story that will have you quickly turning pages in this can’t put down book. The struggles of both Lilah and Eden will pull at your hearts as you hope for a happily ever after. The love flows both ways between the foster kids and Lilah and Eden as they remind the reader to be kind, that there’s more than one way to teach someone, and extend a hand to those in need may end up being a blessing to both giver and receiver. Laurel Blount has outdone herself with this first installment in the Hickory Springs Amish series. She delivered a story of hope, dreams, of true love knowing no time, kindness, second chances, selfless giving, enemies to more and romance. You are bound to laugh, fret and smile while reading this story giving a satisfactory sigh of happiness as you turn over the last page. Can’t wait to visit Hickory Springs again and see which other of the folks we met will be highlighted in the next book. Highly recommend THE AMISH WIDOWER’S SURPRISE – a FIVE STAR book - to anyone and everyone!

I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#TheAmishWidowersSurprise #HickorySpringsAmish #laurelblount #LoveInspired #InspirationalRomance

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Widower's Surprise by Laurel Blount
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
(Hickory Springs Amish Book 1)
They think they’re done with love…
Will working together change their minds?
All widower Eben Miller wants is someone to help him run his general store, but every Amish woman who applies is more interested in marriage than employment. Falling in love again feels impossible for Eben, who needs a worker, not a wife. Straight-talking Lilah Troyer is different. The spinster gave up on finding a husband a long time ago and is desperate for an income to remain independent. She’s even willing to forget Eben’s humiliating rejection of her back in their youth. It’s the perfect solution, until romance comes knocking on their door…
This is Eben Miller's story.
This is Lilah Troyer's story.
This is Corey and Bethany 2 neglected children's story.
All widower Eben Miller wants is someone to help him run his general store.
Straight-talking Lilah Troyer is different. The spinster gave up on finding a husband a long time ago and is desperate for an income to remain independent.
She needs a job and when Eben offers her a job in his general store, she accepts.
2 neglected children that are in foster care come into their lives.
“Kann ich dich helfa mitt ebbes?” Can I help you with something? A male voice spoke the standard shopkeeper’s greeting just behind her, making her jump.
“Oh!” She turned to find Eben studying her, his face stern. She’d not stood so close to him in years—at church she was always careful to keep her distance. He looked different. Same blue-gray eyes, same strong jaw, but a thread or two of silver shone through the gold in his hair, and new lines creased his face. Not laughing wrinkles, these. Sorrow had left its mark.
Oh, she didn’t want to do this. She really didn’t.
Lilah Troyer hesitated on the wooden porch outside Miller’s General Store and readjusted the tote bag full of sample quilt squares on her shoulder.
But all Lilah could think about was how badly she wanted to run back to her rented bedroom and hide.
“What are you waiting for? You’ll not sell Eben Miller any quilts from out here,” Susie Raber pointed out impatiently.
But without her job at Yoder’s Dinner Bell, she had no way to pay for her beloved, sunny little room—unless she could talk Eben into selling her quilts in his store.

I am looking forward to her next book.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read , Inspirational , Romantic , Wonderful characters, Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
I recommend this book.
The Amish Widower's Surprise by Laurel Blount is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a review.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Laurel Blount.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just got this book in the mail today, sat down to read it, and didn’t stop until I finished it! I loved it so much that I had to read some parts out loud to my husband and chat with him about Eben and Lilah. Laurel never disappoints! As a fan of Amish romances, this one had everything I wanted:

- 𝑶𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝑭𝑴𝑪/𝑴𝑴𝑪: 𝑳𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒉 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝟒𝟎, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑬𝒃𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒔 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝟒𝟎.
- 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒚: 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚’𝒓𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.
- 𝑬𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆: 𝑳𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒉 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑬𝒃𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒔𝒐.
- 𝑮𝒓𝒖𝒎𝒑𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒖𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒆: 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒆.
- 𝑮𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒑𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚: 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒔 𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒕𝒓𝒂 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒇𝒖𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒑𝒍𝒆.
- 𝑪𝒖𝒕𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒊𝒅𝒔: 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒑 𝒊𝒏 𝑬𝒃𝒆𝒏’𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑, 𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒅𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚.

When Eben finds he needs help at his shop, he hires Lilah, but it’s far from ideal. She can't stand him, and he's not thrilled about working with single women. Still, he knows she’s not interested in a future with him, so he thinks it’s the perfect arrangement. Eben lost his wife years ago and has no intention of falling in love again, but things start to change as he begins to see Lilah in a different light.

Lilah, who needs the job, is constantly at odds with Eben. She’s completely caught off guard when she starts to feel drawn to him. However, Eben made it clear that he hired her because he didn’t see any chance for a future together. But has that changed? Lilah struggles with the idea of being too old to give Eben the family he wants. He’s always wanted children, and he seems to light up around them. She doesn’t want to stand in the way of his chance at a future with someone younger, even though she may have started to consider a future with him.

This story was a rollercoaster of emotions—I laughed, I cried, and I was on the edge of my seat waiting for Eben and Lilah to finally open up to each other. Five stars all the way!

***I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it did not reflect the review or the rating.

Quotes I loved:
𝑳𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒉 𝒎𝒂𝒚 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕- 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏. 𝑶𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝒔𝒐 𝒇𝒂𝒓 𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒆'𝒅 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐.

𝑹𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒂 𝒃𝒖𝒈𝒈𝒚 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑬𝒃𝒆𝒏, 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌, 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚. 𝑨𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒕 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒔, 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒂. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒘𝒂𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝒂 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆.

𝑯𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒂𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒂 𝒃𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕- 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒎.

𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒂𝒔𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒆.... 𝑰 𝒂𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆...

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this first book in Hickory Springs Amish by Laurel Blount. Eben and Lilah was not the usual young couple but were middle age with their own struggles life had dealt them since their youth years. The twists and turns brought smiles, tears, joy and unexpected rudeness at times that turned to friendship and romance.

This is an easy to read book with the characters admirable, strong willed, speaking their minds at each other but tenderhearted toward some neglected foster children. Eben appreciate the work ethic of Lilah as she wasn’t looking for a husband like former employees in his general store had. Would members of the community interfere and start gossip when they see them together at a fair to seek out more items for the store?

I appreciate the way Blount penned this tale with the gentle side of Eben shining through to the children that needed someone to see the good in them along with Lilah’s input. Sometimes the unexpected can happen when old wounds are set aside with new opportunities to be truly happy and assisting the least fortunate.

I received an early copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own thoughts and will be waiting patiently till the next book is release in the Hickory Springs Amish series. Blount is a gifted author with her creating strong characters and tough situations to overcome.

[Lori Wilen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each time I receive a Laurel Blount ARC I think it cannot get better and I am always wrong. This 5 star book was absolutely wonderful. It came at a time when I am going through something extremely sad and gave me a reason to cry happy tears which turned into tears for my situation. That this book motivated me in such a way says so much for it. The characters were wonderful and very relatable. The children were delightful. The story was beautiful and I definitely loved Hickory Springs and look forward to visiting again. Thank you Laurel for another inspiring and beautifully written realistic book. Your writing amazes me and I loved everything about this book. I do not have a single criticism other than I wished it had been longer. Totally inspiring and perfect for the holiday season with joy, peace and hope. I highly recommend this to folks who have never read a Laurel Blount book before. I promise you that you will not be sorry to read it. For those who are familiar with Laurel's books are you ever in for a treat with this one. This is a great stocking stuffer book and I know it is one that I will definitely read again.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Amish Widower’s Surprise by Laurel Blount is a cute story. I like Laurel Blount’s writing style. It is friendly and engaging. I enjoyed the main characters, Lilah Troyer and Eben Miller as well as Susie, Lilah’s landlady and friend (who is also the local matchmaker). Lilah is plainspoken which tends to land her in trouble (with foot-in-mouth disease). I liked that Lilah spoke her mind. You always know where you stand with her, though, it can lead to hurt feelings (or you can find yourself trying to suppress a chuckle). The children were a charming addition to the story. The siblings allow us to see Lilah and Eben in a new light. I liked the character growth, and the sweet ending. I enjoyed the humor sprinkled throughout the story. The epilogue wrapped up the tale nicely. I hope we get to catch up with the characters in the next book in the Hickory Springs Amish series. I would like to see more of their delightful bishop. The Amish Widower’s Surprise is a sweet story with a sorrowful shopkeeper, a candid maedel, amiable matchmaker, cute foster kids, a dusty quilt, and rapid rumors.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the first book of her new series, author Laurel Blount introduces readers to Hickory Springs, and I can't wait to return! Widower Eben Miller has a store in Hickory Springs. Tennessee and Lilah Troyer needs a job. This sounds like a winning combination except for one thing! Eben is determined to keep things as they were when his wife was living and Lilah isn't a typical Amish maiden. She has strong opinions and isn't afraid to share them out loud! Is Lilah Troyer about to turn Eben Miller's life upside down?

I loved this sweet romance that proves that love has no age limits and that opposites attract! There's also the heartwarming addition of two neglected children who need attention and supervision. Will Eben succeed in leaving his past to enjoy his future? Is Lilah the woman who can help him do this?

The Amish Widower's Surprise is a delightful story of hope, faith, and forgiveness, with an epilogue that made me cheer! I recommend it to all who enjoy inspirational Amish fiction.

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

[Heather Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Laurel Blount is introducing us to a new series with The Amish Widower’s Surprise, and what an introduction it is! I’m already dreaming of living in Hickory Springs.
Widower Eben Miller runs the town’s general store. His wife has been gone a few years, and he is determined never to marry again, despite that being unusual in their Amish Community.
Outspoken and opinionated (not common traits of Amish women), independent woman Lilah Troyer needs a job. Eben decides she’s perfect for his store assistant. She doesn’t like him (and has told him so), so he’ll have no worries of her trying to googly eye him into marriage.
But as they work together and actually get to know each other more, could feelings start to shift for both of them? Set aside your chores and settle in for this sweet story that’ll stretch your smile muscles the whole read through. Plus did I mention it has my favorite, an epilogue? Yay!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest addition by Laurel Blount to the Love Inspired line did not disappoint! As usual Laurel’s characters popped off the page from the first chapter to the last.

Amish widower Eben Miller is not only NOT in the market for a new wife, he has been actively avoiding anyone who seems interested in a relationship. Lilah Troyer, he decides, may be the one person he can trust to help him in his general store. Lilah—plain spoken with a confessed dislike for Eben—seemed like a safe bet for him until two troubled foster children open both Eben and Lilah's eyes, and hearts, to new possibilities.

This is Laurel’s first story set in the small town of Hickory Springs, Tennessee. She has talent by the bucketfuls and builds fictional worlds that make you wish you could go visit. I cannot wait for the next book in this series to see what familiar characters find love in the ones to come!

[Debbie Earls · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another great read by Laurel Blount. This book centers around Lilah, a 40 year old maidel and Eben, a 40 year old widower who has been grieving his wife's death from cancer for 3 years. Lilah doesn't care for Eben too much because of hurtful things that were said when they were teenagers. However, she needs a job and when Eben offers her a job in his general store, she accepts. Eben isn't looking for a wife so he is happy when she tells him that she doesn't like him much. Lilah's friend and housemate, Susie, is trying to match them up with no success. However, when 2 neglected children that are in foster care come into their lives, things begin to change for all of them. Can they become a family of four? Read this inspiring book to find out what happens. This book releases on December 24th.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my. These characters. Eben wants everything to stay the same. Lilah is very outspoken. I couldn’t help but wonder how they would ever work together. Let alone have a romance develop at their age. (I appreciated that they aren’t in their early 20s.)

As you can imagine, a lot of sparks fly between these two. Both are stubborn in their own ways. Add two young foster children who need to be loved and you’ll see a different side to each of them.

The Amish Widower’s Surprise is just that. Full of surprises. Along with surprises it’s heartwarming and tear jerking. If you enjoy Amish stories, then I highly recommend this one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMS! This new series by Laurel Blount won’t leave you disappointed. You will love the story of Eben and Lilah. I know I did. Lilah has been written off and people think she is an old maid, but Lilah is everything Eben never knew he needed or wanted. Eben has hurt her in the past, but can she overlook what happened when they were teens. Lilah’s tell it like it is attitude gets her in trouble at times. She doesn’t told her tongue. Eben who is still getting over his wife finds her refreshing. He starts to smile & laugh again as they work together. I truly think this might be my favorite Love Inspired book. I loved Lilah and Eben and the townsfolk too. I can’t wait to read book #2. I was given a copy, but all opinions are my very own.

[Phylis Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ebon is a widower since he lost his Ruth three years ago. He has hired several women in the store to help him but most of them are looking for a husband to marry. He hires Lilah since she approached him to sell her quilts in his store. He told her no, but then he offered her a job. Ebon is a quiet man and he has a good heart. He treats everyone with kindness.

Lilah on the other hand, says what she thinks. For this reason, no one ever really tried to court her or ask her out.When Ebon offers her a job she tells him she doesn't know how that will work out because she doesn't like him much.

Every year I pick out a book I want to read on Christmas Eve and this year I picked this one. IT was an awesome choice. Check out the book I think you will agree.

[Lori Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story! Those two children were such a delight to get to know!
They brought back many memories of a time in .y childhood.
I loved Lilah too! She's amazing hardheaded and speaks her mind! I'd love to learn that!
I finished this delightful book in one evening of course.
The foster care system really is a piece of work. My heart went out to those children. I found myself rooting for them!
I feel like timing is everything that works according to God's plans for each of us.
Lilah and Eben are proof of that.
I really enjoyed watching Eben come around to Lilah's way if thinking lol.
That made my day lol.
My thanks for a copy of this sweet book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved It!

Lilah and Eben's story is such a wonderful one! I loved that they were not youngies but a more mature age. Also, their differences made their interactions and banter all the more entertaining and touching.

Poor Lilah lacks a filter between a thought that enters her head and what comes out of her mouth. It can come across as harsh, but it's often entertaining instead. And poor Eben as well. He is stuck in a deep rut that, while understandable, is one that it's high time he climbs out of.

As Lilah and Eben's relationship begins to change, they are faced with unexpectedly helping a very special pair. This adds an extra special sweet touch to their story, making it a 5-star read for me.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2024
Laurel Blounts new Hickory Springs Amish, starts off with a bang! Lilah, a "old spinster" in her 30's, is a wallflower always overlooked by men in her community. Eben is a widower store owner who needs help with his store, but every woman he's hired has basically applied hoping to be his new bride. The fun & craziness begins after Eben hires Miss Outspoken Spinster herself. This sweet story is well written, has outstanding funny, caring & stubborn characters & was a total delight to read. I can't wait to see what happens next in Hickory Springs. I was given an advanced copy to read, but was not expected to give a review.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED The Amish Widower's Surprise by Laurel Blount! This author is a must read Amish author for me so I was planning to read the book without even reading the description, but then to find out it's about a "spinster" who had no hope of getting married made me super excited to read it. It did not disappoint.

Lilah has been passed over by the men of her community and is still single in her late 30's. She's outspoken and lost her job because of it which puts her in a bind because she needs an income to pay rent. Lilah approaches Eben about selling her quilts in his shop, but ends up with a job at the shop instead. Eben is still grieving the loss of his wife and Lilah, in her direct and outspoken ways, brings him out of his grief.

This book just made my heart happy. Lilah did so much good for Eben just by being herself. I loved how their relationship progressed. Add in a pair of foster siblings and this is one of the most delightful books I've read this year.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurel has done it again. She always crafts stories that pull at every one of my heartstrings and this one did just that in spades! I loved Lilah and Eben and what their backstories brought to this read. Then Laurel added a surprise second layer to the story that I absolutely loved. Coming off her last series, this addition to the story was perfect. I am all in for this series! Laurel can’t write them fast enough for me!

I received a copy of this book feom the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Mary Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I absolutely adored this first installment of the new Hickory Springs series. What's not to love about an outspoken woman and a heartbroken widower? And two foster children who aren't getting the care they need? Or the way Lilah transforms a dusty store--and storekeeper? The author creates a sense of community that's hard to leave. I couldn't get enough of the quilting, the gossiping, and Eben's superb sense of humor. The author has done it again.Already looking forward to the next one.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an inspirational romantic read that I enjoyed reading. I like that Lilah and Eben were able to come to terms with each other and enjoy the other's company in this first book. It's an easy-to-read Amish story that is full of sweetness and the characters are playful too. I'm looking forward to reading more books in this series as well and to see if Lilah's family will have a happily ever after ending!