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Hunting for a Husband: Volume 9
256 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2025
50 people want to read
About the author
Mindy Steele
36 books351 followersBorn and raised in Kentucky's timber country, Mindy Steele writes inspirational romance and captivating suspense from her natural surroundings. A best selling author that enjoys coffee indulgences, weekend road trips, and all things peanut butter. To learn more about Mindy, go to https://mindysteeleauthor.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 4, 2025
Hunting for a Husband is a tender sweet Amish romance by Mindy Steele. The story is set in Kentucky and it’s about two young Amish adults who become smitten with one another. The two main characters are Leah Wickey and Joseph Shetler. Leah’s Amish family has just moved to Kentucky because her Father was looking for more land so he could start a deer farm. Leah is just getting over a three year relationship with a man that she thought loved her but in reality he was just stringing her along. In her mid twenties she’s ready to get married and start a family. Joseph is a disabled Amish man in a wheel chair. He’s fortunate enough to own his own business but has been overlooked by all the available Amish ladies in the community. He feels he isn’t good enough because of his disability. He would love to marry and have a family but that seems out of his reach. Then an almost accident brings the two together as friends. And so their story begins. Grab a cup of coffee and get comfortable because this is a book that you won’t want to put down anytime soon.
This book totally drew me in almost from the beginning. I loved all the characters. There is an element of mystery in this story that kept me turning the pages. There’s some edge of seat moments also. This book has it all. Romance, mystery and suspense. The ending was beautiful and bought closure to the story.
I highly recommend Hunting for a husband to readers of Amish romance, Christian Fiction and Women’s Fiction. It’s part of The Heart of the Amish series but can be read as a standalone. It is scheduled for release on 7/1/25.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thought and opinions expressed here in this review are solely my own.
#HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley
This book totally drew me in almost from the beginning. I loved all the characters. There is an element of mystery in this story that kept me turning the pages. There’s some edge of seat moments also. This book has it all. Romance, mystery and suspense. The ending was beautiful and bought closure to the story.
I highly recommend Hunting for a husband to readers of Amish romance, Christian Fiction and Women’s Fiction. It’s part of The Heart of the Amish series but can be read as a standalone. It is scheduled for release on 7/1/25.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thought and opinions expressed here in this review are solely my own.
#HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley
May 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ A sweet, heartfelt Amish story with unique touches
Hunting for a Husband surprised me in some really lovely ways. The storyline felt fresh thanks to details I’ve never seen in Amish fiction before—like the deer farming family (so interesting!) and Joe’s portrayal as a character living with a physical challenge. His perspective added depth without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Leah was a standout—strong, compassionate, and easy to root for. While the pacing dragged a little in places for me, overall it was a warm and charming read.
If you enjoy cozy, character-driven stories with a few unexpected elements, I’d definitely recommend it—and I’ll be picking up more in this series! 🦌💛
Thank you Netgalley for the early copy!
Hunting for a Husband surprised me in some really lovely ways. The storyline felt fresh thanks to details I’ve never seen in Amish fiction before—like the deer farming family (so interesting!) and Joe’s portrayal as a character living with a physical challenge. His perspective added depth without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Leah was a standout—strong, compassionate, and easy to root for. While the pacing dragged a little in places for me, overall it was a warm and charming read.
If you enjoy cozy, character-driven stories with a few unexpected elements, I’d definitely recommend it—and I’ll be picking up more in this series! 🦌💛
Thank you Netgalley for the early copy!
June 2, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A really sweet and engaging romance set in Amish country, “Hunting for a Husband”, by Mindy Steele, features vivid characters, with a compelling wounded hero and a complex heroine, that complement each other in a lovely way.
Joe is such a great character: the acceptance of his limitations and learning to do things differently is so positive.
I loved his job and his passion for it, and how, paradoxically it may seem, is so capable at it, an efficiency acknowledged by the community.
Leah is also a great heroine, trying to find herself. I liked her inner strength, stubborness and how she embraced her dreams.
The story is really enjoyable and a pleasure to read, showing how the characters challenge themselves and adapt to changes.
Joe’s healing and parcial mobility recovery process seemed realistic.
I liked the depiction of the traditions and way of life of the Amish community and the differences within it.
A really sweet and engaging romance set in Amish country, “Hunting for a Husband”, by Mindy Steele, features vivid characters, with a compelling wounded hero and a complex heroine, that complement each other in a lovely way.
Joe is such a great character: the acceptance of his limitations and learning to do things differently is so positive.
I loved his job and his passion for it, and how, paradoxically it may seem, is so capable at it, an efficiency acknowledged by the community.
Leah is also a great heroine, trying to find herself. I liked her inner strength, stubborness and how she embraced her dreams.
The story is really enjoyable and a pleasure to read, showing how the characters challenge themselves and adapt to changes.
Joe’s healing and parcial mobility recovery process seemed realistic.
I liked the depiction of the traditions and way of life of the Amish community and the differences within it.
June 24, 2025
Hunting for a Husband is book 9 in the Heart of the Amish series. I am loving this series and can’t wait for the next book. Leah Wicky’s family moves from Pennsylvania to Kentucky to have more land to raise deer. Leah is wanting to marry but her last boyfriend jumped the fence. Joe Shetler is in a wheelchair and runs Shetler Outdoors. Chance meetings, sharing rides, and a missing Buck. This book has it all, mystery, romance, Faith, Hope and Family. You won’t want to miss this one! Than you to #NetGalley and #Barbour Publishing for this Arc. Releases July 1 2025. This is my honest review.
July 29, 2025
I am starting to collect Mindy Steele books, and I couldn’t be happier. I can’t even begin to tell you all of the emotions that I felt reading this book—or maybe it was all of them.
This is the story of Leah Wickey, who’s been unlucky in love. She wants a husband but also wants to make sure that she’s picking the right guy for her after having been left by a man she spent three years with. When she moved to Kentucky, she met Joe Shetler, and they quickly became friends. Joe wasn’t necessarily unlucky in love. He was afraid to try love after an accident left him unable to walk at the age of 15. He felt that being married and having a family wasn’t really in his future, but the more he and Leah got to know each other, the more he started changing his mind about the way he thought about things.
Oh, there were so many things that I loved about this book. One thing was that I learned more about the Amish faith—things that I didn’t know before. They could be unique to the Kentucky Amish, but I enjoyed learning them. Joe’s acceptance and non-acceptance of his disability is so clear. On one hand, he was upbeat and quick-witted, but he also had thoughts about himself that really weren’t true. He let his disability define him.
Leah often made me laugh. She said she didn’t have a list of what the perfect man would look like, but she kept ticking off imaginary checkboxes in her head when she would meet men or would make references to the fact that they wouldn’t mark off the box. It’s a good thing that she had this nonexistent list, because she kept checking off more and more boxes whenever she thought of Joe.
I saw themes of discerning God‘s will for yourself, learning to trust—not only others but yourself—and acceptance of who people are deep down, not on a superficial level. It was a fictional story that didn’t take me long to read because it was so good and really came at a time when I needed it most. Not necessarily for the strong Christian themes, which I, of course, always love to have in my books, but because it really made me feel. It really brought out true emotion, and for those of us who really love happily ever afters, you won’t be able to stop smiling with this one.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This is the story of Leah Wickey, who’s been unlucky in love. She wants a husband but also wants to make sure that she’s picking the right guy for her after having been left by a man she spent three years with. When she moved to Kentucky, she met Joe Shetler, and they quickly became friends. Joe wasn’t necessarily unlucky in love. He was afraid to try love after an accident left him unable to walk at the age of 15. He felt that being married and having a family wasn’t really in his future, but the more he and Leah got to know each other, the more he started changing his mind about the way he thought about things.
Oh, there were so many things that I loved about this book. One thing was that I learned more about the Amish faith—things that I didn’t know before. They could be unique to the Kentucky Amish, but I enjoyed learning them. Joe’s acceptance and non-acceptance of his disability is so clear. On one hand, he was upbeat and quick-witted, but he also had thoughts about himself that really weren’t true. He let his disability define him.
Leah often made me laugh. She said she didn’t have a list of what the perfect man would look like, but she kept ticking off imaginary checkboxes in her head when she would meet men or would make references to the fact that they wouldn’t mark off the box. It’s a good thing that she had this nonexistent list, because she kept checking off more and more boxes whenever she thought of Joe.
I saw themes of discerning God‘s will for yourself, learning to trust—not only others but yourself—and acceptance of who people are deep down, not on a superficial level. It was a fictional story that didn’t take me long to read because it was so good and really came at a time when I needed it most. Not necessarily for the strong Christian themes, which I, of course, always love to have in my books, but because it really made me feel. It really brought out true emotion, and for those of us who really love happily ever afters, you won’t be able to stop smiling with this one.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2025
Starting over in a new Amish community after her twin sister is wed leaves Leah feeling alone and uncertain of her own future. A disabled young man with a kind heart, who just happens to be her new neighbor, may bring the answer to Leah's search for God's will for her life.
This is a lovely story with many touching moments and a tender romance between two people who seem to share the sense of feeling left behind. It was infused with Amish wisdom and faith as the two main characters look for guidance and help in moments of need. I enjoyed the blooming of a sweet romance from friends to something more as they encourage each other. A bit of peril and a mystery added some tension and kept the plot moving at a faster pace. The Amish people are always impressive with their strong sense of community and faith, work ethic, respect and kindness to others.
Recommend to readers who enjoy clean inspirational romances.
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.)
This is a lovely story with many touching moments and a tender romance between two people who seem to share the sense of feeling left behind. It was infused with Amish wisdom and faith as the two main characters look for guidance and help in moments of need. I enjoyed the blooming of a sweet romance from friends to something more as they encourage each other. A bit of peril and a mystery added some tension and kept the plot moving at a faster pace. The Amish people are always impressive with their strong sense of community and faith, work ethic, respect and kindness to others.
Recommend to readers who enjoy clean inspirational romances.
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.)
May 21, 2025
***** I received this ARC ebook free from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I loved how this Amish romance was more than your typical romance novel. It had a bit of mystery as well as hardship entwined within the romance setting. A fun read!!
I loved how this Amish romance was more than your typical romance novel. It had a bit of mystery as well as hardship entwined within the romance setting. A fun read!!
June 14, 2025
NetGalley review for "Hunting for a Husband" by Mindy Steele ~ Pub. date: 1 Jul 2025 ~ Genre: Amish mystery
Leah Wickey was left at the altar. Well, not exactly. Amish marriages are not performed before an altar, BUT her intended left the community -- in the middle of the night -- without even hinting he was doing so. The last few months had been hard. Her "Daed" (father) moved the family, leaving the people she had always known to move to Kentucky. Daed is confident that his deer farm will do better there and be less expensive to maintain.
Leah felt that every decision she had made in the last two months was a poor one. The plus of the new community was that no one knew her flaws... yet.
At 15, Joe Shelter made a poor decision, and it cost him the use of his legs. Not long after, his life was forever changed with the loss of family. Confinement to a wheelchair has limitations, but he is the owner of his own business, Shelter Outdoors & Archery. His workshop is 'wheelchair capable'. Outfitted so that he could cut, assemble, and varnish without spasming.
All goes well until ... one of the Wickey's prize deer is killed ... by an arrow. And Leah is almost ... And Joe makes archery equipment ...
"Hunting for a Husband" is the ninth in the series, The Heart of the Amish. I have read & reviewed several in this series. (The most recent was "Lizzie's Little Mouse".) I liked #9 and do recommend it. It was a four-star read for me. Perhaps it was the unexpected, if not downright strange, deer farm. The story was also a bit overlong. While I "liked" Leah & Joe, neither of them pulled me into the story, where I had a hard time closing my Kindle.
I received a complimentary DRC of “Hunting for a Husband” 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: 4 stars
Series: The Heart of the Amish, book 9
Cover: Fits the story
Pages: 256
Publish Date: 1 July 2025
#HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley #MindySteele #netgalleyreviewer
Leah Wickey was left at the altar. Well, not exactly. Amish marriages are not performed before an altar, BUT her intended left the community -- in the middle of the night -- without even hinting he was doing so. The last few months had been hard. Her "Daed" (father) moved the family, leaving the people she had always known to move to Kentucky. Daed is confident that his deer farm will do better there and be less expensive to maintain.
Leah felt that every decision she had made in the last two months was a poor one. The plus of the new community was that no one knew her flaws... yet.
At 15, Joe Shelter made a poor decision, and it cost him the use of his legs. Not long after, his life was forever changed with the loss of family. Confinement to a wheelchair has limitations, but he is the owner of his own business, Shelter Outdoors & Archery. His workshop is 'wheelchair capable'. Outfitted so that he could cut, assemble, and varnish without spasming.
All goes well until ... one of the Wickey's prize deer is killed ... by an arrow. And Leah is almost ... And Joe makes archery equipment ...
"Hunting for a Husband" is the ninth in the series, The Heart of the Amish. I have read & reviewed several in this series. (The most recent was "Lizzie's Little Mouse".) I liked #9 and do recommend it. It was a four-star read for me. Perhaps it was the unexpected, if not downright strange, deer farm. The story was also a bit overlong. While I "liked" Leah & Joe, neither of them pulled me into the story, where I had a hard time closing my Kindle.
I received a complimentary DRC of “Hunting for a Husband” 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: 4 stars
Series: The Heart of the Amish, book 9
Cover: Fits the story
Pages: 256
Publish Date: 1 July 2025
#HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley #MindySteele #netgalleyreviewer
June 17, 2025
(thank you barbour publishing and netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review)
This was my first Amish book and I had such a great time!
Leah Wickey has experienced multiple changes in the last few months. The man she’s been courting disappeared in the night, leaving his home, faith and her after years of false promises. Her two sisters are married and leaving home and her father is moving the entire family to Kentucky. It’s a lot. But she trusts in God’s plan for her.
Joseph Shetler took a leap that cost him his ability to walk. After some years of hatred and anger, he’s accepted his life and now strives for independence from his family. He has his own job and successful business but he secretly longs for a family of his own. Sadly, not many women want to be with a man in a wheelchair.
Then they meet. What starts as neighbours helping each other out in a time of need, grows into a friendship that blossoms into a loving romance.
I ate this up.
Yet another genre to add to my unendingly growing TBR.
“Soll diese nun die letzte sein. Von meinen Lebensstunden. So schliesse mich durch den Glauben ein.” This should now be the last one of my life's hours. So enclose me by faith.
This was my first Amish book and I had such a great time!
Leah Wickey has experienced multiple changes in the last few months. The man she’s been courting disappeared in the night, leaving his home, faith and her after years of false promises. Her two sisters are married and leaving home and her father is moving the entire family to Kentucky. It’s a lot. But she trusts in God’s plan for her.
Joseph Shetler took a leap that cost him his ability to walk. After some years of hatred and anger, he’s accepted his life and now strives for independence from his family. He has his own job and successful business but he secretly longs for a family of his own. Sadly, not many women want to be with a man in a wheelchair.
Then they meet. What starts as neighbours helping each other out in a time of need, grows into a friendship that blossoms into a loving romance.
I ate this up.
Yet another genre to add to my unendingly growing TBR.
June 11, 2025
Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele is the ninth book in The Heart of the Amish series. This was another delightful read to me, and it is the story of Leah and Joe. Joe had a diving accident while growing up, and he's been in a wheelchair for ten years. Because of this, he thinks no female would ever want him for a husband. Leah has been burned before when her boyfriend left her for the Englisch world. Will they learn to trust each other, and will Joe take a chance on getting surgeries that could restore the use of his legs?
This book is set to release on July 1. If you're an Amish fiction fan, you won't want to miss this one!
Thanks to #NetGalley for an e-pub of this book.
All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
#HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley
This book is set to release on July 1. If you're an Amish fiction fan, you won't want to miss this one!
Thanks to #NetGalley for an e-pub of this book.
All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
#HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley
June 7, 2025
Very enjoyable story. I absolutely loved that their was a character that was very much different to many Amish stories. This story sat differently to many others because of the MMC being in a wheelchair. I loved this because it dealt with the heartache of once being an able bodied teen to a man that struggled with ongoing pain and also an emotional wound of believing he was unlovable in his chair. My favourite moment was
"“Because no matter what you have been told, hope is always there. Sometimes doctors get it wrong.This Dr. Gorman cannot know what Gott does."
Being a nurse I see this time and time again, it is a fabulous reminder of who really is control of everything, who created us and who has a plan for us.
Loved it
"“Because no matter what you have been told, hope is always there. Sometimes doctors get it wrong.This Dr. Gorman cannot know what Gott does."
Being a nurse I see this time and time again, it is a fabulous reminder of who really is control of everything, who created us and who has a plan for us.
Loved it
June 5, 2025
The Heart of the Amish books have become some of my favorites and this one is no different. I love Leah and Joe's story. It's full of stubbornness, hopefulness, and pure love. Neither of these two thought they would ever marry, though it was in their heart of hearts that they wished to do so, badly.
This is a perfect example of God giving us what we need opposed to what we want. Oftentimes, it's always better. Sometimes we have to go through heartache in order to understand and be ready for true love.
This story is just lovely. It has so many ups and downs and even when it's staring them both in the face, they still fight it. I love that everything turned out the way it was supposed to be and the way God intended it to be.
This book (and the series) is heartwarming and makes you believe in humanity and in love again. I love these books so much!!
Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Mindy Steele for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are my own and are completely honest.
This is a perfect example of God giving us what we need opposed to what we want. Oftentimes, it's always better. Sometimes we have to go through heartache in order to understand and be ready for true love.
This story is just lovely. It has so many ups and downs and even when it's staring them both in the face, they still fight it. I love that everything turned out the way it was supposed to be and the way God intended it to be.
This book (and the series) is heartwarming and makes you believe in humanity and in love again. I love these books so much!!
Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Mindy Steele for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are my own and are completely honest.
May 24, 2025
A sweet Amish romance filled with hope, acceptance, and faith.
Moving with her family from Lancaster to Kentucky, Leah is hoping her past does not follow her. Praying her dreams will come true.
Having been injured as a young teen and confined to a wheelchair, Joe has accepted his dream of a frau and kinner may never come true.
Can the friendship Leah and Joe form become even more?
Releases July 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Moving with her family from Lancaster to Kentucky, Leah is hoping her past does not follow her. Praying her dreams will come true.
Having been injured as a young teen and confined to a wheelchair, Joe has accepted his dream of a frau and kinner may never come true.
Can the friendship Leah and Joe form become even more?
Releases July 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 24, 2025
Hunting for a husband by Mindy Steele is such a touching story from the very beginning with great unique fun-loving characters, touching moments along with a hint of danger, mystery and love.
This is not your typical Amish love story. You will find yourself laughing, crying, holding your breath and celebrating all with the turn of a page.
I highly recommend, this the 9th book in the series Heart of the Amish.
#mindysteele
#huntingforahusband
#heartoftheamish
#amish
#cleanreading
This is not your typical Amish love story. You will find yourself laughing, crying, holding your breath and celebrating all with the turn of a page.
I highly recommend, this the 9th book in the series Heart of the Amish.
#mindysteele
#huntingforahusband
#heartoftheamish
#amish
#cleanreading
May 22, 2025
Mindy Steele has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Her take on Amish life has introduced me to some of the quirkiest characters, and instead of the staid, sober Amish characters that often show up, her characters know how to laugh, most often at themselves.
Leah Wickey moves with her family to Kentucky. In her mid-twenties, she's practically an old maid by Amish standards. It's not that she never dates, it's that something always happens to get in the way. She was so late to her last date (because of her job helping Dok Stella) that he ended up stranding her at the auction house and taking another girl home.
Joe Shetler took a leap at 15 that changed his life and consigned him to a wheelchair. Now 25, he has watched nearly all of his friends fall in love and marry, but what woman would want a man who can't walk beside her through life? Resigned to a life alone, his new friendship with the new girl in the district is a bit of a surprise. Is that interest he sees in her eyes? He knows he's interested in her, but why in the world would she choose him? When poachers set their sights on Leah's father's prize bucks, can Joe's knowledge of hunting protect Leah from harm?
Readers who love Amish romance with a strong dose of mystery will enjoy Hunting for a Husband. While it is book 9 in the Heart of the Amish series, it can be read as a stand-alone story. I highly recommend Hunting for a Husband!
Leah Wickey moves with her family to Kentucky. In her mid-twenties, she's practically an old maid by Amish standards. It's not that she never dates, it's that something always happens to get in the way. She was so late to her last date (because of her job helping Dok Stella) that he ended up stranding her at the auction house and taking another girl home.
Joe Shetler took a leap at 15 that changed his life and consigned him to a wheelchair. Now 25, he has watched nearly all of his friends fall in love and marry, but what woman would want a man who can't walk beside her through life? Resigned to a life alone, his new friendship with the new girl in the district is a bit of a surprise. Is that interest he sees in her eyes? He knows he's interested in her, but why in the world would she choose him? When poachers set their sights on Leah's father's prize bucks, can Joe's knowledge of hunting protect Leah from harm?
Readers who love Amish romance with a strong dose of mystery will enjoy Hunting for a Husband. While it is book 9 in the Heart of the Amish series, it can be read as a stand-alone story. I highly recommend Hunting for a Husband!
May 16, 2025
Wow! This book is now my new favorite! Leah and Joe hit it off from the start. They seemed to have an understanding upon meeting for the first time and instantly had a connection that developed into more very fast. No one seemed to understand Leah and always was vocal about what they thought she needed to do or correcting what she did do. But Joe instantly got her quirks and wanted to be part of them so bad, he made some drastic changes in his life so he could be the man she would need! He became her protector and the love of her life fast and that was definitely what she needed. Relationships were not her expertise and always failed her. Great book! Hope to read more of their story!
I was given an advanced copy of this book and the opinion is solely my own!
I was given an advanced copy of this book and the opinion is solely my own!
May 7, 2025
If you’re a fan of Amish fiction then you’re going to enjoy Mindy Steele’s newest book, Hunting for a Husband! This story begins when Leah Wicky has to uproot her life in Pennsylvania Amish country to move with her family to a much smaller community in Kentucky. Though her heart is bruised from a recently failed relationship, Leah relies on God to help her make friends and find a purpose in her new community. One of the first friends Leah’s makes is Joe Shetler, a local business owner who was injured, years ago, because of a silly teenage prank. Joe, who now spends life in a wheelchair, has accepted his disability, almost to the point of limiting himself to the possibility of living life to the fullest. As Leah and Joe discover, sometimes God works in mysterious ways and life doesn’t always go as planned.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I was provided a free copy by Net Galley in exchange for my honest review. Hunting for a Husband releases July 1, 2025.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I was provided a free copy by Net Galley in exchange for my honest review. Hunting for a Husband releases July 1, 2025.
August 12, 2025
Don’t let the title fool you. This finely crafted story explores the lives and desires of two unique Amish individuals. Leah, who has been hurt by a young man she had courted who abandoned her. And Joe, who was injured as a youth and confined to a wheelchair but manages to run his own business. They both long for more, and their lives become interwoven as friendship blossoms between them. In addition to the sweet love story, suspense stalks the novel’s pages, with poachers attacking Leah’s family’s deer farm. The authentic characters and engaging plot drew me into the community and made me feel a part as I witnessed this touching tale unfold. The author did a good job developing a memorable drama that works its way into your heart and mind. I would like to read more books about this extended family. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #HuntingforaHusband #NetGalley
June 13, 2025
Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele
Rating: Four Stars
Language/Profanity: None
Faith: Praying; faith; going to church;
Romance/Sex: Falling in love; wanting to marry; wanting to kiss; kissing (Very light).
Violence ect.: Knocked out.
Other: None
Part of a Series: A part of the Heart of the Amish multi author series..
Synopsis:
Thoughts:
I really liked this story, the characters and the mystery, and also the glimpse into how the Amish live, and their different rules for each community. I like how Leah wasn't like a lot of other women in books. In the other book it seems like if something happens because people weren't careful then the woman holds anger and a grudge until the guy can convince her through lots of trying that they are sorry. Leah on the other hand had this very wise thought.
Accidents happen
That is what made me really like her.
I also liked Joe, and how he still looked on the bright side of things and didn't just sit around after the accident, but proved that he could do things on his own. Though he was giving off serious vibes of the guy on a roof while the flood waters are rising. The guy is asking God for help but won't take the help of the boat that comes by. Eventually though, Joe learned that God can show His will though people.
*Slight Spoiler ahead, if you want to read it it is Written backwards*
I od hsiw taht eh dah denreal taht eh t'ndid deen ot klaw ot eb a dnabsuh, dna daetsin deyats woh eh saw. Esuaceb ton enoyreve lliw eb elba ot klaw niaga, dna ti smees, ni a yaw, ot ecrofne eht thguoht taht uoy deen ot klaw ot eb a danbsuh.
*End spoiler*
By the way, it feels like the spoiler took longer to write than any of my other thoughts....
Over all. I really like this book, and think sometime I'll read the author's other works.
Bible Verse
Isaiah 64:8 KJV
[8] But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
Rating: Four Stars
Language/Profanity: None
Faith: Praying; faith; going to church;
Romance/Sex: Falling in love; wanting to marry; wanting to kiss; kissing (Very light).
Violence ect.: Knocked out.
Other: None
Part of a Series: A part of the Heart of the Amish multi author series..
Synopsis:
Thoughts:
I really liked this story, the characters and the mystery, and also the glimpse into how the Amish live, and their different rules for each community. I like how Leah wasn't like a lot of other women in books. In the other book it seems like if something happens because people weren't careful then the woman holds anger and a grudge until the guy can convince her through lots of trying that they are sorry. Leah on the other hand had this very wise thought.
Accidents happen
That is what made me really like her.
I also liked Joe, and how he still looked on the bright side of things and didn't just sit around after the accident, but proved that he could do things on his own. Though he was giving off serious vibes of the guy on a roof while the flood waters are rising. The guy is asking God for help but won't take the help of the boat that comes by. Eventually though, Joe learned that God can show His will though people.
*Slight Spoiler ahead, if you want to read it it is Written backwards*
I od hsiw taht eh dah denreal taht eh t'ndid deen ot klaw ot eb a dnabsuh, dna daetsin deyats woh eh saw. Esuaceb ton enoyreve lliw eb elba ot klaw niaga, dna ti smees, ni a yaw, ot ecrofne eht thguoht taht uoy deen ot klaw ot eb a danbsuh.
*End spoiler*
By the way, it feels like the spoiler took longer to write than any of my other thoughts....
Over all. I really like this book, and think sometime I'll read the author's other works.
Bible Verse
Isaiah 64:8 KJV
[8] But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
June 20, 2025
HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND by Mindy Steele is the fabulous story of Leah Wickey and Joseph “Joe” Shetler as they find friendship, helping each other overcome their past, enjoy the present and dare to dream of a possible future.
Leah’s sisters have move on to families of their own. While Leah is extremely joyful for them, she wonders if it will ever happen to her. In Amish communities, twenty-four is considered a spinster. Dumped after of three-year courtship, she feels like maybe her chance has passed her by. While sad to leave her best friend, she’s thrilled at the prospect of the family moving to a new state. There they will continue to raise deer and no one will know her past. However, things soon seem to be the same. She’s either being rejected or has no attraction to a particular man. Against matchmaking, Leah wants to wed for love not convenience. There’s no wedding in sight in Leah’s future. She has met a man whose company she really enjoys and feels she can be herself with, but they’re just friends. And she’s happy working for Dok Stella taking care of her little one.
When Joe was fifteen his life changed. With the urge to be “first”, he dove into the water hitting a boulder. May surgeries and a long stay away from home left him alive but in a wheelchair. It took years, but he’s come to be at peace with his situation and God after learning the valuable lesson that sometimes the answer is simply no. He finds Leah beautiful and loves being around her. Joe gave up on having a fraa. A fraa needs a man that can take care of and protect her. Things he can’t do.
While Leah’s heart continue to get broken? Will her family stop trying to fix her up? Who’s trying to steal the deer and why? Will Leah finally learn how to cook? Will Leah telling Joe “Isn’t all life hard if we see only the stones in the path and not the road ahead?” be what it takes to have him taking Dok Stella’s advice? Do two friends dare to dream about a possible permanent relationship?
HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND is an exceptional story that will have you loving the Wickey family – including Mammi Iolene’s quotes, having admirations for those overcoming obstacles and pulling for the underdog as it keeps you turning pages hoping for friendship to grow into something special. Mindy Steele gives us a book of second chances, determination, the treasure of friendship, family, a sprinkling of humor and wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND is emphatically a FIVE STAR story that I highly recommend to everyone! Although part of The Heart of the Amish series, it can most definitely be read as a standalone book.
I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#HuntingForAHusband
Leah’s sisters have move on to families of their own. While Leah is extremely joyful for them, she wonders if it will ever happen to her. In Amish communities, twenty-four is considered a spinster. Dumped after of three-year courtship, she feels like maybe her chance has passed her by. While sad to leave her best friend, she’s thrilled at the prospect of the family moving to a new state. There they will continue to raise deer and no one will know her past. However, things soon seem to be the same. She’s either being rejected or has no attraction to a particular man. Against matchmaking, Leah wants to wed for love not convenience. There’s no wedding in sight in Leah’s future. She has met a man whose company she really enjoys and feels she can be herself with, but they’re just friends. And she’s happy working for Dok Stella taking care of her little one.
When Joe was fifteen his life changed. With the urge to be “first”, he dove into the water hitting a boulder. May surgeries and a long stay away from home left him alive but in a wheelchair. It took years, but he’s come to be at peace with his situation and God after learning the valuable lesson that sometimes the answer is simply no. He finds Leah beautiful and loves being around her. Joe gave up on having a fraa. A fraa needs a man that can take care of and protect her. Things he can’t do.
While Leah’s heart continue to get broken? Will her family stop trying to fix her up? Who’s trying to steal the deer and why? Will Leah finally learn how to cook? Will Leah telling Joe “Isn’t all life hard if we see only the stones in the path and not the road ahead?” be what it takes to have him taking Dok Stella’s advice? Do two friends dare to dream about a possible permanent relationship?
HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND is an exceptional story that will have you loving the Wickey family – including Mammi Iolene’s quotes, having admirations for those overcoming obstacles and pulling for the underdog as it keeps you turning pages hoping for friendship to grow into something special. Mindy Steele gives us a book of second chances, determination, the treasure of friendship, family, a sprinkling of humor and wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND is emphatically a FIVE STAR story that I highly recommend to everyone! Although part of The Heart of the Amish series, it can most definitely be read as a standalone book.
I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#HuntingForAHusband
July 2, 2025
5 stars, Thank God for Unanswered Prayers
HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND (THE HEART OF THE AMISH: VOLUME 9)
By Mindy Steele
You never know what God has in store for you. Leah Wickey found this out, after basically being dumped after three years of courting with an Amish man who chose the Englisher world over her. She doesn't know what to do with herself, now.
During a chance encounter at an area wide sale she meets Joe Shetler. He is a disabled Amish man in a wheelchair. He thinks he is less than.
They begin to talk a bit and realize they have some of the same interests.
The book takes interesting turns through Leah's family business. Through it all, she is left feeling that she is less than.
But, come to find out, in God's scheme of life, Joe and Leah both have much to offer each other and others.
The story felt extra special to me, because I am disabled. Thankfully, this happened after I was married for 20+ years, but my husband is a good man who takes great care of us. We give thanks to the Lord who reminds us to be thankful for unanswered prayers.
Once, we had our hearts set on a Mennonite farm, but went home and prayed about it. We were led to the piece of property that we've lived on for more than 20 years. We would have been limiting what God could do in our lives, if we had "settled" for the Mennonite farm.
I thankfully received a complimentary copy of HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND by Mindy Steele I was not obligated to post a review.
#disabled #Amish #love #unsansweredprayers #BarbourFiction #BarbourPublishing #MindySteele #bingedbook #favoritebook #ChristianFiction #inspirational #AmishRecipes #contemporary
HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND (THE HEART OF THE AMISH: VOLUME 9)
By Mindy Steele
You never know what God has in store for you. Leah Wickey found this out, after basically being dumped after three years of courting with an Amish man who chose the Englisher world over her. She doesn't know what to do with herself, now.
During a chance encounter at an area wide sale she meets Joe Shetler. He is a disabled Amish man in a wheelchair. He thinks he is less than.
They begin to talk a bit and realize they have some of the same interests.
The book takes interesting turns through Leah's family business. Through it all, she is left feeling that she is less than.
But, come to find out, in God's scheme of life, Joe and Leah both have much to offer each other and others.
The story felt extra special to me, because I am disabled. Thankfully, this happened after I was married for 20+ years, but my husband is a good man who takes great care of us. We give thanks to the Lord who reminds us to be thankful for unanswered prayers.
Once, we had our hearts set on a Mennonite farm, but went home and prayed about it. We were led to the piece of property that we've lived on for more than 20 years. We would have been limiting what God could do in our lives, if we had "settled" for the Mennonite farm.
I thankfully received a complimentary copy of HUNTING FOR A HUSBAND by Mindy Steele I was not obligated to post a review.
#disabled #Amish #love #unsansweredprayers #BarbourFiction #BarbourPublishing #MindySteele #bingedbook #favoritebook #ChristianFiction #inspirational #AmishRecipes #contemporary
June 25, 2025
Heartfelt
Before I read a book, I read the description, which gives me an idea of how it will end. Knowing the end is one thing, but the ride to get there is what it's all about. And I can easily say that Leah and Joe's ride was fantastic! It was heartfelt, funny, introspective, full of faith, and at times even painful. I greatly enjoyed getting to know them and loved author Mindy Steele's pacing of their blossoming friendship and more. It was just perfect, as was her descriptive writing that had me visualizing the scenes in my mind and feeling what the characters were feeling.
However, there was more. Along with Leah and Joe's story is a touch of mystery, which played beautifully into the story. It didn't overshadow the main storyline but added more depth to it by making it more intriguing.
I also greatly enjoyed the self-discoveries that Leah and Joe made about themselves. It was so true to life that I found myself saying, "Yah, that's exactly how it is," which added an extra layer of wow to this great story.
Hunting for a Husband is a wonderful and heartfelt story that should definitely be added to your TBR list, and I hope you do just that.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and voluntary.
Before I read a book, I read the description, which gives me an idea of how it will end. Knowing the end is one thing, but the ride to get there is what it's all about. And I can easily say that Leah and Joe's ride was fantastic! It was heartfelt, funny, introspective, full of faith, and at times even painful. I greatly enjoyed getting to know them and loved author Mindy Steele's pacing of their blossoming friendship and more. It was just perfect, as was her descriptive writing that had me visualizing the scenes in my mind and feeling what the characters were feeling.
However, there was more. Along with Leah and Joe's story is a touch of mystery, which played beautifully into the story. It didn't overshadow the main storyline but added more depth to it by making it more intriguing.
I also greatly enjoyed the self-discoveries that Leah and Joe made about themselves. It was so true to life that I found myself saying, "Yah, that's exactly how it is," which added an extra layer of wow to this great story.
Hunting for a Husband is a wonderful and heartfelt story that should definitely be added to your TBR list, and I hope you do just that.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and voluntary.
July 23, 2025
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: https://bookreadingtic.com/2025/07/23... THANK YOU, AND PLEASE FOLLOW ME, THANK YOU
Fitting In
Leah's boyfriend of three years has dumped her, then her dad decided to move them hundreds of miles away. Leah misses her best friend, and her two recently married sisters who did not make the move with them.
Only in her early twenties, her Amish community is beginning to look at Leah as a spinster. She has had trouble fitting in. Leah has made one good friend, Joe, a man who is wheelchair bound. They understand each other in ways no one else does, and they both love watching birds together.
Then tragedy strikes when Leah is attacked, and the prized deer they raise are hurt. Maybe the family made a mistake moving. Joe believes his growing love for Leah is useless if he can't protect her.
This tale has lots going on, including the problems of someone who is disabled, and the rejections they face. This is not just a serious story, there are fun and humorous things going on throughout it, along with the mystery of who is behind the attack.
This book will grab your interest from the first page, and I highly recommend this five-star book.
Thanks to Barbour Books for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.
Fitting In
Leah's boyfriend of three years has dumped her, then her dad decided to move them hundreds of miles away. Leah misses her best friend, and her two recently married sisters who did not make the move with them.
Only in her early twenties, her Amish community is beginning to look at Leah as a spinster. She has had trouble fitting in. Leah has made one good friend, Joe, a man who is wheelchair bound. They understand each other in ways no one else does, and they both love watching birds together.
Then tragedy strikes when Leah is attacked, and the prized deer they raise are hurt. Maybe the family made a mistake moving. Joe believes his growing love for Leah is useless if he can't protect her.
This tale has lots going on, including the problems of someone who is disabled, and the rejections they face. This is not just a serious story, there are fun and humorous things going on throughout it, along with the mystery of who is behind the attack.
This book will grab your interest from the first page, and I highly recommend this five-star book.
Thanks to Barbour Books for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.
June 14, 2025
The latest in the The Heart of the Amish Series is coming July 1, 2025. It is Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele.
This is Joe Shetler and Leah Wicky‘s story. Joe is the owner of Shetler Outdoors, an archery and outdoors shop, and although is confined to a wheelchair, has normal desires for his life. While Leah is a new member of the community who has moved here with her family and their deer farm, she too comes with the desire for a husband and family of her own.
Ms. Steele has very good perspective of Amish life by which she is able to use in her writings. She lives beside an Amish community in Kentucky. With the help of Amish neighbors, she is able to bring the true Amish life setting into her books. This make the books very realistic.
A true plot of hope and dreams run throughout the book. While we travel the story, we are lost in the story as it moves quickly from one sene to another. As stated, the characters are 100% believable and become personal friends.
If you haven’t considered getting this book, now is the time. It Is 5-star all the way!
I was given an ARC by the author but was not expected to give a positive review. Ideas are all my own. Order yours today.
This is Joe Shetler and Leah Wicky‘s story. Joe is the owner of Shetler Outdoors, an archery and outdoors shop, and although is confined to a wheelchair, has normal desires for his life. While Leah is a new member of the community who has moved here with her family and their deer farm, she too comes with the desire for a husband and family of her own.
Ms. Steele has very good perspective of Amish life by which she is able to use in her writings. She lives beside an Amish community in Kentucky. With the help of Amish neighbors, she is able to bring the true Amish life setting into her books. This make the books very realistic.
A true plot of hope and dreams run throughout the book. While we travel the story, we are lost in the story as it moves quickly from one sene to another. As stated, the characters are 100% believable and become personal friends.
If you haven’t considered getting this book, now is the time. It Is 5-star all the way!
I was given an ARC by the author but was not expected to give a positive review. Ideas are all my own. Order yours today.
July 2, 2025
Leah Wickey has moved with her family to Kentucky where her father has started a deer farm. She is looking around the community with thoughts of marriage. She wants to settle down with a good man and start a family. She's already marked a couple of the locals off of her potentials list. One in particular shows her interest but all he talks about is the deer farm which is quite odd.
Joe Shetler has a sporting goods business. He has a challenge or two in life because he is wheelchair bound due to a diving accident. He knows in his heart that he can't marry, no matter how much he wants a wife and family.
I want to thank Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read this book which I received through NetGalley. My unsolicited opinion is that this is an excellent story. I've enjoyed every book in this series. It is a sweet, clean romance with a bit of suspense and danger added in.
The facts involving raising deer were quite interesting.
The two main characters are endearing. I particularly liked that Leah looked past the wheelchair and into Joe's good heart.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a clean read with an Amish setting and characters. It's a five-star read in my opinion.
Joe Shetler has a sporting goods business. He has a challenge or two in life because he is wheelchair bound due to a diving accident. He knows in his heart that he can't marry, no matter how much he wants a wife and family.
I want to thank Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read this book which I received through NetGalley. My unsolicited opinion is that this is an excellent story. I've enjoyed every book in this series. It is a sweet, clean romance with a bit of suspense and danger added in.
The facts involving raising deer were quite interesting.
The two main characters are endearing. I particularly liked that Leah looked past the wheelchair and into Joe's good heart.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a clean read with an Amish setting and characters. It's a five-star read in my opinion.
June 28, 2025
First let me say that each book in this series is a stand alone, so go ahead and read them in any order.
Author Mindy Steele lives in an Amish community and does a fabulous job of portraying the Amish of Kentucky accurately. That gives so much realism to her stories. Hunting for a Husband is unique in that we learn that many Amish families do have deer farms. I enjoyed learning about them and usually learn something new from her books..
Wonderful characters drew me in right away. Leah is sweet and warm hearted. Joe is strong, even though he doesn’t always see past his wheelchair when it comes to girls. They make a perfect match. She is the daughter of a deer farmer. He runs his own outdoors shop. But will they see that they’re meant for each other?
A story with sweet romance, it also has suspense and at some points will keep you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend it if you enjoy Amish fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
Author Mindy Steele lives in an Amish community and does a fabulous job of portraying the Amish of Kentucky accurately. That gives so much realism to her stories. Hunting for a Husband is unique in that we learn that many Amish families do have deer farms. I enjoyed learning about them and usually learn something new from her books..
Wonderful characters drew me in right away. Leah is sweet and warm hearted. Joe is strong, even though he doesn’t always see past his wheelchair when it comes to girls. They make a perfect match. She is the daughter of a deer farmer. He runs his own outdoors shop. But will they see that they’re meant for each other?
A story with sweet romance, it also has suspense and at some points will keep you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend it if you enjoy Amish fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
May 12, 2025
There is something refreshing about reading this series. It's like coming home to family that you haven't seen in a long time. This book can be read as a stand alone but once you read it, you will want to read the other books. This book is about Leah who has just moved to Kentucky with her parents, grandmother and younger siblings. Leah's former boyfriend has left her and the Amish faith. Then there is Joe who is in a wheelchair from an accident when he was a teenager, that runs his archery and outdoors shop. Joe and Leah becomes friends, while their friendship blooms there are people who are trying to poach the deer that her parents raise. The story will draw you in and you won't want it to end. I love that the story is about someone with a disability who doesn't let it interfere with their life. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are in my own words what I thought of this book.
May 13, 2025
Mindy Steele yet again spun a story that kept me turning the pages till I was at the end!!!
Leigh has to leave her hometown to seatle down in Kentucky, after having a terrible end to a three year courtship, Leigh doesn't know if she will ever be truly courted.
Joe doesn't feel like he will ever be able to court someone due to his disabilities, who would want to be courted by someone that can't be everything she needs?
Becoming friends is just what these two need to help each other and grow within themselves.
This book pulls you in to these two people's lives and will make you feel the heartaches and celebrations as they figure out that they are important and someone is out there that understand them. I highly recommand this book to anyone who enjoys overcoming obsticales and falling in love.
I was given an ARC however all thoughts and opinions are soley my own.
This book will be out on July 1st 2025
Leigh has to leave her hometown to seatle down in Kentucky, after having a terrible end to a three year courtship, Leigh doesn't know if she will ever be truly courted.
Joe doesn't feel like he will ever be able to court someone due to his disabilities, who would want to be courted by someone that can't be everything she needs?
Becoming friends is just what these two need to help each other and grow within themselves.
This book pulls you in to these two people's lives and will make you feel the heartaches and celebrations as they figure out that they are important and someone is out there that understand them. I highly recommand this book to anyone who enjoys overcoming obsticales and falling in love.
I was given an ARC however all thoughts and opinions are soley my own.
This book will be out on July 1st 2025
July 13, 2025
Hunting for a Husband is such an engaging story! Leah Wickey is afraid that she may never have a husband and family, and a swimming accident has left Joe Shetler spending his life in a wheelchair. Their unusual introduction sets the stage for a budding friendship filled with humor, compassion, and self-discovery, but soon, sparks of romantic interest begin to ignite!
Steele's latest novel is flavored with great supporting characters, a hint of mystery, unexpected danger, and a special reunion with Dok Stella, a character from a previous story. Best of all, there is heartwarming romance and a reminder that God is always there!
I highly recommend Hunting for a Husband to all who enjoy Amish Christian romance.
I received a copy from the author. There was no expectation of a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
I invite you to visit my blog for my full review. https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
Steele's latest novel is flavored with great supporting characters, a hint of mystery, unexpected danger, and a special reunion with Dok Stella, a character from a previous story. Best of all, there is heartwarming romance and a reminder that God is always there!
I highly recommend Hunting for a Husband to all who enjoy Amish Christian romance.
I received a copy from the author. There was no expectation of a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
I invite you to visit my blog for my full review. https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
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