Hunting for a Husband

The Heart of the Amish #9

by Mindy Steele

Love Is the Bull's-Eye Leah Aims For
 
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
 
Ten years ago, Joe Shetler took a leap, and it cost him his ability to walk. Accepting that this is God’s will for him, Joe finds his independence running Shetler Outdoors, an archery and outdoors shop.
 
Leah Wicky moves to Kentucky where her father has set up a deer farm. With a strong desire to marry, she soon sets her sights on Joe who, despite his disabilities, has determination and an easy way about him. A sticky situation finally affords the opportunity for a friendship to form between them.
 
When the Wickey’s prize buck attracts attention in the community—and attempted poachers—Leah is caught in the crosshairs, and Joe’s fears of inadequacy haunt him when he fails to protect her. A future once bright has dimmed.
 
The Heart of the Amish Series
The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele
Ruth’s Ginger Snap Surprise by Anne Blackburne
The Quilt Room Secret by Lisa Jones Baker
Courting the Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele
Mary’s Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne
Serenity’s Secret by Lisa Jones Baker
Stolen Kiss by Mindy Steele
Lizzie's Little Mouse by Anne Blackburne
 

Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Fiction

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2025

About the author

Born 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

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

In my review of Mindy Steele’s novella in the A Lancaster Amish Christmas anthology, I wondered if we would see Leah Wickey again. After all, her two sisters Beth and Louise got their respective love stories in that novella but poor Leah needed a happily-ever-after too. And I’m delighted to report that we get to watch her fall in love with a worthy hero at last in Hunting for a Husband – complete with a fun meet-cute that’s definitely original!

Speaking of original… so is Leah’s family’s form of livelihood – a deer farm. Not the usual type of farm in Amish fiction, or any other genre for that matter, and I enjoyed the unique elements it added to the plot. Something else that sets this story apart is Joe Shetler, the man who captures Leah’s heart. We don’t see many heroes (Amish or otherwise) in a wheelchair, and we don’t see many Amish men running outdoors shops or making archery bows, but Joe is all of the above and just an all-around good guy too. He and Leah form a sweet friendship that gradually turns into more, but there are of course some bumps in the road to an HEA, obstacles that add dimension and reflection to the journey. Though this Kentucky community IS full of mostly good and genuine (though not perfect) people, this isn’t a novel set in a ‘rosy Amish utopia’. Steele instead treats us to a layered story that explores the flaws and insecurities of its characters as much as it does the strengths and the successes, and this is exactly how I prefer my Amish fiction.

Bottom Line: Hunting for a Husband is another delightful novel by Mindy Steele, and I continue to enjoy her warm writing voice and likable characters. Leah and Joe have aspects to their lives that make them different from the typical Amish couple and all the more fun to watch as they go from strangers to friends to people in love. A dash of suspense and some medical drama kept the anticipation high in the last half of the novel and kept me invested in the outcome of more than just the romance. I really loved getting to know Leah and Joe and their families better, and now I’m hoping we see more of Leah’s brothers in future books too! Whether you’re already a fan of this author or just discovering her books, make sure that Hunting for a Husband is on your TBR list!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet story! I couldn't have guessed all the twists and turns awaiting me when I started reading.

Leah is hunting for a husband. Joe wants a wife but doesn't believe that's in his future after an injury leaves him in a wheelchair. As Leah and Joe strike up a friendship, they begin to see each other in a different light. They quickly become each other's daily support, even vowing to marry one another if neither finds a spouse by 30. But as their bond deepens, a threat arises to Leah's family business and another man comes courting. Will Joe and Leah remain just friends?

This was such a heartwarming read. I always enjoy stories set in Amish communities. There’s something peaceful and refreshing about stepping into their world and lifestyle through the pages of a book.

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Hunting for a Husband" by Mindy Steele is an Amish romance. It is a little different it that the main family raises deer. This book deals with forgiveness. Joe struggles with trusting God and believing that God wants to heal him and Leah wants to find love but thinks it is impossible. I found Mammi Iolene's quote inspiring. This story also has a bit of mystery on who stole the deer and attacked Leah, the bad guy might be a surprise to some readers.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good example of what the heart feels versus simply physical attraction. Ten years ago Joe did a foolish thing that altered his life. Leah is wondering when will her life mate show up, especially after both her sisters have mates. Their path is brought together during a heavy rain storm.
I followed the progression of their relationship and what had Joe changing his direction about his own life. Heartwarming and feel good story in which I enjoyed getting to know the characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a beautiful read. I found the story of Leah and Joe enchanting. Sometimes you just know the person who you are meant to with forever.

If you are an Amish fiction/romance and are interested in reading beyond your typical settings of Pennsylvania and Indiana then I heartily recommend Mindy Steele’s books set in my home state of Kentucky.

This is book nine in a series but is perfectly able to read as a standalone.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not required to write a positive review. The review above is in my own words.

[Alexa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you for the free ebook!

As you might know from reading my reviews on romance novels, I tend to rate them low or show my distaste for that genre. Reading at least one Amish romance novel was actually on my bucket list. I guess it's because of the plethora of them I see in stores. This isn't something I'd normally read again, but I felt like it wouldn't be fair to rate it low. This book was actually not that bad, and I could see why people like this genre, but sadly it's not my style.

The new terms were definitely confusing at first, and I'm now obsessed with saying the word bopplin now lol.

My gripes:

I had a feeling this book was going to magically allow Joe to walk again. I wished that he just found the confidence in himself by Leah's side despite the wheelchair.

Doctor Stella isn't even a doctor but apparently has a lot of knowledge on the magical surgery she wants Joe to get. Same with Leah doing "research." I'm pretty sure Leah doesn't even have an iPhone, let alone a computer.

Why are there so many L names in this book?! Ex: Leah, Lena, Laura, Linda, and Lizzy.

I guess I'm glad it got addressed about how her family just dunks on her ability to do anything. Can't even go a day without mentioning how bad her cooking is and about her ex, Connor.

Didn't expect there to be a mystery in this novel, but I feel like it was missing something.

Also, I still have mega beef with Abel.

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent Amish romance story! Original and refreshing. Believable characters in Leah and Joe. Definitely one I’ll recommend to my friends. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This new installment in The Heart of the Amish series has a few surprises as Leah’s family have a deer farm which is an unusual occupation. I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding the farm which made the story more compelling. The family dynamics are interesting to navigate. I love the friendship that developed between Leah and Joe. It was nice to see how they related to each other on so many levels but they both held back because of not feeling adequate for each other. Joe is living with a disability but Leah does not mind and sees him for the kind heart he has. A sweet romance is blossoming and Joe has some hard decisions to make. You will enjoy watching these characters grow and develop throughout the story. I enjoyed getting to know them and recommend that you will too. An added bonus is the recipes at the end.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just love a faith-filled Amish romance! Hunting for a Husband is such a sweet, heartwarming read, with a fresh plot and easy-to-love characters.

I connected with Leah, and my empathy went into overdrive. No wonder she yearned for love! And Joe a genuine guy with unique struggles. Their friendship-into-more journey is paced nicely and gave me the feels.

Witnessing Joe and Leah’s growth is evident and the touches of mystery and family dynamics added to the depth of the book. Such a sweet read. No worries if you haven’t read the other books in the series. This quick read works great on its own.

First Line (Prologue): Sometimes in the midst of falling snow and a newly kindled fire it’s difficult to decide which to linger in.
Series: Heart of the Amish, book 9
Genre: Amish Romance
Author: Mindy Steele
Page Count: 256

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.

[Wendy Andrus]

Hunting for a Husband is such a sweet Amish romance, full of faith and hope. Both Leah and Joe are relatable characters. I love that bird watching is one of the main things they have in common, since I am an avid birder, myself.

I like that true love sees beyond the outside, such as one's disability, or beyond one's lack of (cooking) abilities, and beyond all the flaws. That demonstrates God's love for each of us.

If you enjoy a sweet Amish romance, be sure to add this one to your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband: A Tender Exploration of Love and Resilience in Amish Country
Rating: 4.6/5

Mindy Steele’s Hunting for a Husband is a heartfelt addition to The Heart of the Amish series, weaving themes of faith, disability, and quiet courage into a romance that feels both tender and grounded. As someone who appreciates Amish fiction but often craves deeper character complexity, this novel surprised me with its nuanced portrayal of Joe and Leah’s relationship—a bond built on mutual growth rather than idealized perfection.

Why This Book Stands Out
Steele’s strength lies in her ability to balance gentle romance with unflinching realism. Joe’s disability is neither romanticized nor dismissed; his struggles with self-worth (fears of inadequacy) and adaptive independence (running an archery shop) are rendered with quiet dignity. Leah’s proactive pursuit of love—a refreshing twist in Amish narratives—avoids cliché by pairing her determination with vulnerability. The deer farm setting adds earthy texture, and the poaching subplot injects subtle tension without overshadowing the emotional core.

Emotional Impact & Revelations
This book stirred unexpected emotions: frustration at societal assumptions about disability, warmth during Joe and Leah’s tentative friendship (their sticky situation meet-cute is delightful), and a lump-in-throat moment when Joe’s protective instincts clash with his perceived limitations. Steele’s depiction of God’s will as a journey rather than a fixed destination resonated deeply—especially when Leah’s dreams collide with reality.

Constructive Criticism
While the pacing suits the genre, the poaching conflict resolves somewhat abruptly. A deeper dive into Leah’s family dynamics (particularly her father’s role in her marital aspirations) could enrich her arc. The faith elements, though organic, occasionally lean didactic—a lighter touch might broaden appeal.

Final Verdict
A standout in Amish romance, perfect for fans of The Flower Quilter or Beverly Lewis. Steele crafts a love story that honors both heart and hardship.

Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways and the publisher for the gifted copy. This was a comforting yet thought-provoking read—like a quilt stitched with equal parts hope and humility.

Pair with: The Quilt Room Secret for another gentle Amish tale or A Stolen Kiss (Steele’s other work) for more nuanced romance.

For fans of: Anne Blackburne’s warmth, Cindy Woodsmall’s emotional depth, and stories where love blooms in unexpected soil.

Note: Keep tissues handy—this one sneaks up on you with its quiet poignancy.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele
(The Heart of the Amish Book 9)
Book 9 of 9: The Heart of the Amish
Love Is the Bull's-Eye Leah Aims For
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
Ten years ago, Joe Shetler took a leap, and it cost him his ability to walk. Accepting that this is God’s will for him, Joe finds his independence running Shetler Outdoors, an archery and outdoors shop.
Leah Wicky moves to Kentucky where her father has set up a deer farm. With a strong desire to marry, she soon sets her sights on Joe who, despite his disabilities, has determination and an easy way about him. A sticky situation finally affords the opportunity for a friendship to form between them.
When the Wickey’s prize buck attracts attention in the community—and attempted poachers—Leah is caught in the crosshairs, and Joe’s fears of inadequacy haunt him when he fails to protect her. A future once bright has dimmed.
This is Joe Shetler's story.
This is Leah Wicky's story.
This book has Romance, mystery and suspense.
Mamm does this at least one a month, Joe whispered beside her. she and many of the other woman fear the younger ones will not keep up ours songs. So they invite friends over to sing.
Leah Wicky moves to Kentucky where her father has set up a deer farm.
The Wickey family soon find themselves at the mercy of poachers.
Leah meets Joe during a storm.
When Leah and Joe are both caught in a rainstorm, they help each other out.
I highly recommend this book.
Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steeles is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Mindy Steeles.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Fiction is a genre that I absolutely LOVE. Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele is Book 9 in The Heart of the Amish Series. The series is written by various authors and this is the 4rd book in the series written by Mindy Steele. I have been enjoying this series from the beginning!

I jumped right into the book and from the beginning it was clear that the story was going to have a good storyline. The 2 main characters in this book are Joe Shelter and Leah Wicky. The setting is Kentucky. Leach was a featured character in a previous book and has recently moved to Kentucky to help her Father with the Deer Farm he recently purchased. Joe is a resident of the town that Leah is now residing in and she meets him almost immediately. Joe had an unfortunate accident about 10 years ago and is now Wheelchair bound. He runs an Archery and Outdoor shop and LOVES his job. Leah still dreams of being a wife and having a family and she takes interest in Joe. Joe wasn't sure he would get his chance at having a family because of his disability. I really LOVE that a opportunity arises that gives them the chance to really get to know each other. Joe really steps in and helps Leah's family when someone is disrupting the Deers on the Farm and one goes missing. Leah and Joe discover they really have eyes for another but they also have to heal from their individual hurts fron their past. The book is one of healing, moving forward, trust and hope! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Amish Fiction! AMAZING BOOK!

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele, book nine in The Heart of the Amish series, is a reminder that love will find you, even if you weren’t looking or expecting to ever find it or believe you deserve it. Leah Wicky’s family moves from Pennsylvania to Kentucky in order to have more land to raise deer. Leah wants to marry, but her last boyfriend jumped the fence, causing her to question to attract and choose the right man. Joe Shetler runs Shetler Outdoors, an archery and outdoors shop, but a youthful decision has left him in a wheelchair. Chance meetings, sharing rides, and a missing Buck all lead to Leah and Joe to time spent together. All this time with Leah has Joe reevaluating his future, his reliance on the wheelchair, and the possibilities to make changes: an adaptive carriage, a surgery to repair his spine, to accept this chance of having a wife and family.

Shenanigans occur when some prize deer go missing from the Wicky’s farm. Joe helps in finding the culprits, as English hunters who poach and talk too much leave clues for him to follow; when they don’t realize he is listening. Hopefully, this will be enough to prove his feelings to Leah that he wants a future with her. This book has it all, mystery, romance, faith, hope and family.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#NetGalley #Barbour #HuntingForAHusband

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband, by Mindy Steele, is the ninth book in The Heart of the Amish series. This is a series of stand-alone Amish stories that are written by different authors. Some of the stories do contain the same characters so I found it easier to read the stories in order. However, the authors do a great job of introducing characters and filling in past events. In this story we are introduced to Joe and Leah. Joe owns a local outdoors business and Leah has recently moved to the area with her parents to have a deer farm. While both dream of having a family someday, they feel it won't happen due to their age and disability.

This is a well written inspirational story that is easy to read. I enjoy how strong Joe is and how hard he has worked to overcome his injury from a swimming accident. I appreciate how Leah feels about her future with how her recent relationship ended and her age. While this story focuses on Joe and Leah, their friendship and growing relationship, it also contains suspense and mystery with events that happen on her family deer farm. I like how the story gives a look into the struggles Joe has with being in a wheelchair, yet it shows how his disability does not stop him from having a full life.

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

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has been such a nice story to read. I appreciate how the author slowly builds a friendship between Joe and Leah. They both have longed to fit in but something holds them back. I like how Joe is able to share things with Leah that isn’t always easy to hear. Forgiveness plays a big part in the story.

I don’t think Leah has ever thought about how she has not forgiven someone that hurt her deeply. It has made her a little unsure of herself. She gets a wake up call when Joe mentions forgiveness, but Leah turns the conversation around on Joe instead of taking responsibility for her feelings. To be fair , Joe still has bitterness about his accident. Two lonely people who share a common thread make this a great teaching moment for readers.

The author delivers a wonderful story that shares how two people learn to trust God more and find happiness. I like how the characters are relatable and shares issues that we face as well. For Joe it’s a lesson in trusting God and not giving up. Leah struggles with finding someone who will love her and believe in herself.

“If we have joy in the morning, we will have peace in the night.”

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

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband is a sweet romance with some twists and turns to make you question whether you’ve got it all figured out. Joe runs a business that specialises in outdoor stuff and archery, etc. Leah and her family move to the arrive and she forms a friendship with Joe.

I loved Leah’s character. Fun fact: her father started a deer farm. We live in the heart of the rural Midwest, and hunting is a huge deal. There are lots of hunting outfits that people pay to come hunt with them on their land. It can get interesting, and there is definitely sometimes tension between the resident hunters and the out-of-towners. Other fun fact, I once bartered part of my midwife fees with a deer that my daughter shot and we processed.

This was such a fun book, and I loved watching Joe and Leah become friends and then maybe more. Plus, the tension and then the twists and turns. You’re going to love this one, so grab your copy today!

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

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband by author Mindy Steele is an Amish Christian romance. This is book nine in The Heart of the Amish series. It may easily be read as a stand alone. This is both a nice story and very unique.

The characters are believable and relatable. Their words sounded authentic. One of my favorite ones was Mammi Iolene. She was feisty and offered some inspiration to the tale. The writing was smooth and allowed the story to progress at a nice pace. There is a bit of mystery as well as some sweet romance. The author has a surprise or two, also.

This is the story of Leah and Joe. He was in a car accident and is still harboring bitterness about it. He is struggling with his relationship with God. Leah just wants to find someone to love, and she is certain that she won’t. As their friendship goes so does their relation ship with God. This beautiful story is full of Christian and life lessons.

It would make a nice book club selection. There is a lot of material to discuss. I highly recommend Hunting for a Husband. It gets a 5 star rating from me. I thoroughly enjoyed. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele is the ninth book in The Heart of the Amish series and. This Amish/Christian book focuses on Joe Shelter and Leah Wicky. He took a leap some years ago that cost him the ability to walk. Meanwhile, she moves to Kentucky where her father set up a deer farm.

I loved how the author developed these characters as well as the storylines that include their family members and friends. A disability, poachers, an outdoor center, and more fill the pages of this book. Leah finds herself able to look past Joe’s disabilities, and see the man God created. The two find themselves courting, dealing with poachers and more. As the two become closer, it becomes clear that God has drawn them together.

While you may be able to read this book on its own, I definitely recommend reading the books in order to gain full appreciation for the characters.

So if you are looking for a work of Amish/Christian fiction, check out Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele, and the rest of The Heart of the Amish series.

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

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joe Shetler was all boy. This meant having fun, taking a few risks in the name of fun. But, the fun ended when Joe landed in shallow water and was left paralyzed. Move forward ten years. Joe is happy in his job in his own business that sells outdoor and archery equipment. He thought he'd never marry. Never have children.
Leah Wicky moves to the Amish community with her parents that Joe lives in. Her father sets up a deer farm which isn't a typical business for an Amish man. Leah feels somewhat used as back home she wasted three years on a guy who, in the end, ran off and left the Amish. Her siblings have married and while she is happy for them, she wonders if she will ever find a man who is content with their way of life.
Leah and Joe cross paths and Leah finds herself developing feelings for Joe. Joe has fears of inadequacy due to his handicap. Leah is not bothered by that at all. Joe helps Leah and her family by setting up cameras to catch the poachers on her dad's deer farm.
I, thoroughly, enjoyed their story! Great characters!
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Barbour Publishing through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

[Joy Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Mindy Steele did it again!! “Hunting for a Husband" is the latest in The Heart of the Amish series. Leah Wicky moves with her family to Kentucky. But she’s feeling left out and invisible, that is until she meets Joe Shetler. Joe is the first person who actually “sees” who Leah is. Joe is confined to a wheelchair due to a childhood injury. Can these two work out their differences and hit the bullseye?
Once I started, I couldn’t put this book down. It has a little bit of everything- sweet romance, Christian values and some mystery. I highly recommend it! Many thanks to the author and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#HuntingForAHusband #MindySteele #BarbourFiction #AmishFiction #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BooksSetInAmishCountry #BooksSetInKentucky

[Jess Reads Fiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele was an absolute delight from beginning to end. I loved watching Leah and Joe together—going from strangers to friends to more—all while navigating some atypical and quirky situations that made the story even more fun!

Leah was a relatable and well-written heroine, and the chemistry between her and Joe was sweet and slow-building, making their romance feel authentic and deeply satisfying. A little suspense and medical drama in the second half added a surprising layer of depth and kept things really moving, making it impossible to put down.

Mindy Steele has a way of weaving humor and heart with a strong thread of faith, reminding readers that God’s timing and plans are always better than our own. If you enjoy clean romance with a splash of sass, a dash of mischief, and a whole lot of heart, Hunting for a Husband is one you won’t want to miss!

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leah is sure that the man she thinks is close to being "the one" is truly the one, but then he isn't. Joe had a serious accident as a teen that changed his life. He finds himself in a difficult position and Leah is there to help despite the fact that helping is not so convenient! Then their story begins. It is a sweet Amish love story with some mystery as well. I love some mystery! Keeps me on my seat! It was a good story that will draw you in and touch your heart. Especially for those who know those with special needs and how hopes and dreams are not as easy to obtain. I think you will enjoy this book and the characters! I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mindy Steele did a great job with this book. Not only was it a sweet Amish romance but there was a bit of intrigue along with a clear understanding of the hardships involved in living with a disability. Joe was a great character, enough faults to make him real but still full of kindness and a genuine heart for his faith and family. Leah tried so hard to be content where she was, but couldn't quite manage it. My favorite thing about Leah was her willingness to look past Joe's disability and see the person, not the wheelchair. The aspect of the deer farm was so interesting and Mammy's character provided some levity. Overall, a great book, a sweet romance and a picture of Amish life with real problems thrown in.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leah Wickey didn’t relish moving to Kentucky with her family as she felt overlooked in many ways including a man to love her. Unforeseen circumstances left her alone when she saw Joe needed assistance to get out of the storm. His kindness was more than she anticipated but he felt no one would want a handicapped man. A deer farm, an archery range and sport store brought many visitors but when harm came it was not welcomed. Who’s going to show true character in caring, striving to move forward to overcome obstacles? There is a bit of mystery to who the troublemakers were that seemed to end abruptly. The tale did portray Amish life in Kentucky and differences.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Bloggers tour. I have shared my own thoughts.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked that the characters seemed to actually like each other, and care about each other, but I didn't like how his arc was "fixing" his disability and how all she seemingly wanted was to get married. That said I still really enjoyed this and I can finally say I read an Amish romance and enjoyed it. Literally no spice, just a super cute story of two people meeting and falling in love. I clocked the twist and drama immediately, but I tend to do that so I am not subtracting points for that. I think the only reason this book lost a star is because I didn't enjoy the different words, and while I know the Amish do use those words, it almost felt like I was mocking the Amish as I was reading. I probably am not the target audience for these books, but I still enjoyed it.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Sherry Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joe Shetler has been paralyzed after an unfortunate accident and spends his life in a wheelchair, often wondering if he could ever have a normal life of love and marriage.

Leah Wickey moves to the area with her family so her dad can have a deer farm.

Leah and Joe meet by accident and become close friends. Poachers come to the deer farm and after Lean is attacked, Joe realizes he cannot protect her. He is so upset and figures Leah will not have anything to do with him.

This is a book about hope, understanding and love. I highly recommend it to those who like to read Amish books.

Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.