What do you think?
Rate this book
Falling for the Amish Rival
On the farm, they’re enemies…
On paper, they’re falling in love.
Amanda Stoltzfus would love to get married, but most Amish men aren’t interested in a woman who prefers farmwork to housework. Good thing her secret pen pal L.D. values her for who she is, unlike Amanda’s snarky rival, the irritating new goat farmer, David Troyer. But when Amanda arranges a long-anticipated meeting with her pen pal, she discovers it’s David! Soon they find themselves locked in a battle that will make or break the future of both their farms. Can they set aside their rivalry and look beyond the surface to find their perfect match?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm
Book 1: His Amish Christmas Surprise
Book 2: Falling for the Amish Rival
On paper, they’re falling in love.
Amanda Stoltzfus would love to get married, but most Amish men aren’t interested in a woman who prefers farmwork to housework. Good thing her secret pen pal L.D. values her for who she is, unlike Amanda’s snarky rival, the irritating new goat farmer, David Troyer. But when Amanda arranges a long-anticipated meeting with her pen pal, she discovers it’s David! Soon they find themselves locked in a battle that will make or break the future of both their farms. Can they set aside their rivalry and look beyond the surface to find their perfect match?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm
Book 1: His Amish Christmas Surprise
Book 2: Falling for the Amish Rival
- GenresAmish Fiction
203 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
7 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Virginia Wise
48 books71 followersVirginia Wise is a New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of inspirational romance. A romantic at heart, she loves a happily ever after. You might find her wandering Lancaster County's Amish country where she enjoys meeting new people who inspire her heartwarming stories. When she's not writing, Virginia enjoys painting, spending time with family and friends, and taking long walks in the woods. Visit her online at VirginiaWiseBooks.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was the sweetest romance! From the synopsis alone, I knew these two would go on an emotional roller coaster to reach their HEA, and it was totally worth it.
David and Amanda are goat farmers who bond anonymously as pen pals over their shared love of goats. As their letters continue, they’re drawn to the person on the other end. In real life, though, they’re reluctant rivals. They can admit there’s attraction, but neither wants to act on it. David is fighting to keep his family farm afloat, while Amanda struggles for acceptance as a woman who chooses the outdoors over the kitchen. Both are determined to prove the value of their farms, putting them directly at odds.
When they learn each other’s identities, they’re forced to question if they can be more than rivals, maybe friends, or something more. But with both competing for the same contracts, the tension is real. Their hearts want them together, but only one farm can survive. Lose your farm, or lose your love?!
The arguments, teasing, letters, chemistry, and growing friendship were so sweet, and the conflict felt completely understandable. I loved how their loved ones tried to help them navigate their struggles, and how their respect for each other was always clear, even when the future wasn’t.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
David and Amanda are goat farmers who bond anonymously as pen pals over their shared love of goats. As their letters continue, they’re drawn to the person on the other end. In real life, though, they’re reluctant rivals. They can admit there’s attraction, but neither wants to act on it. David is fighting to keep his family farm afloat, while Amanda struggles for acceptance as a woman who chooses the outdoors over the kitchen. Both are determined to prove the value of their farms, putting them directly at odds.
When they learn each other’s identities, they’re forced to question if they can be more than rivals, maybe friends, or something more. But with both competing for the same contracts, the tension is real. Their hearts want them together, but only one farm can survive. Lose your farm, or lose your love?!
The arguments, teasing, letters, chemistry, and growing friendship were so sweet, and the conflict felt completely understandable. I loved how their loved ones tried to help them navigate their struggles, and how their respect for each other was always clear, even when the future wasn’t.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
February 23, 2026
This story exceeded my expectations. There were endless twists besides the romance. It left me asking: “is he going to win the goat contest?” “Who’s going to get the goat contract?” “Why are Amish so into goats?”
The writing left much to be desired. Wise tended to over explain every action in a way that just repeated what was said in action and dialogue. I suppose that this is just the case with novels of this genre. It was painful. It gave me the feeling that she thought her readers to be too dumb to draw any conclusions of their own.
…
Oh, my favorite part? The part on page 141 where at first all seemed well. Then there is plot twist and Amanda has to leave abruptly and says “I think we both know that I do.” … “We’re rivals again now.” One of the greatest twists in American literature.
The writing left much to be desired. Wise tended to over explain every action in a way that just repeated what was said in action and dialogue. I suppose that this is just the case with novels of this genre. It was painful. It gave me the feeling that she thought her readers to be too dumb to draw any conclusions of their own.
…
Oh, my favorite part? The part on page 141 where at first all seemed well. Then there is plot twist and Amanda has to leave abruptly and says “I think we both know that I do.” … “We’re rivals again now.” One of the greatest twists in American literature.
January 29, 2026
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise (2026)
Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm #2
5h 22m narrated by Tanya Eby, 203 pages
Genre: Christian Romance > Amish Fiction
Rating as a movie: PG
Featuring: Epigraph, Pen Pals, Sisters, Goat Farm, Auction, Enemies-to-Lovers, German, Secret Identity Correspondence Trope, Dual POVs, Characters From Previous Book, Full House, Family Dynamics, Rivals Trope, Pride, Jealousy, Pining, Orphans, Business, Author's Note - Next Book
Books and Authors mentioned: First Epistle to the Corinthians by Paul the Apostle
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🐐✝️
My thoughts: This was a nice cozy Amish Romance. I decided not to read Book 1 and that was good because it's not needed. The characters from Book 1 are present and they tell you they are together, but there are no spoilers about their courtship, so you can just jump in here and save Book 1 for the Christmas season. Anyway, I enjoyed this story, it was comforting but not predictable. I will be reading more from this author, including the rest of the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Yes. This is a bit more contemporary than the Amish I usually read, but all of the elements are there and the plot is refreshing.
Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm
1. His Amish Christmas Surprise (2025)
2. Falling for the Amish Rival (2026)
3. A Forbidden Amish Suitor (2026)
Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm #2
5h 22m narrated by Tanya Eby, 203 pages
Genre: Christian Romance > Amish Fiction
Rating as a movie: PG
Featuring: Epigraph, Pen Pals, Sisters, Goat Farm, Auction, Enemies-to-Lovers, German, Secret Identity Correspondence Trope, Dual POVs, Characters From Previous Book, Full House, Family Dynamics, Rivals Trope, Pride, Jealousy, Pining, Orphans, Business, Author's Note - Next Book
Books and Authors mentioned: First Epistle to the Corinthians by Paul the Apostle
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🐐✝️
My thoughts: This was a nice cozy Amish Romance. I decided not to read Book 1 and that was good because it's not needed. The characters from Book 1 are present and they tell you they are together, but there are no spoilers about their courtship, so you can just jump in here and save Book 1 for the Christmas season. Anyway, I enjoyed this story, it was comforting but not predictable. I will be reading more from this author, including the rest of the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Yes. This is a bit more contemporary than the Amish I usually read, but all of the elements are there and the plot is refreshing.
Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm
1. His Amish Christmas Surprise (2025)
2. Falling for the Amish Rival (2026)
3. A Forbidden Amish Suitor (2026)
February 6, 2026
What a fun enemies to more romance! And I love the added secret identity trope that surrounds Amanda and David’s first few ‘real-life’ meetings. Such a contrast between their blossoming pen pal relationship and their almost instant dislike at first meet. I really enjoyed watching them sort that out, though there were times Amanda got my dander up. She was sooooo…..gah! But there’s tons of chemistry between these two, including some banter and teasing.
A goat farming heroine is unique and creates some interesting inner conflict for Amanda who never feels she measures up to the community’s norms. She loves working with her goats and she is a savvy businesswoman. Brilliant plot twist that she’s the expert mentoring David. That adds another dimension to their relationship and I so appreciate David for respecting her knowledge and being willing to accept her guidance.
A sweet Amish romance with lighthearted family drama to add extra dimension to the storytelling.
My thanks to HarperCollings, Harlequin Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.
A goat farming heroine is unique and creates some interesting inner conflict for Amanda who never feels she measures up to the community’s norms. She loves working with her goats and she is a savvy businesswoman. Brilliant plot twist that she’s the expert mentoring David. That adds another dimension to their relationship and I so appreciate David for respecting her knowledge and being willing to accept her guidance.
A sweet Amish romance with lighthearted family drama to add extra dimension to the storytelling.
My thanks to HarperCollings, Harlequin Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.
January 29, 2026
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
Book 2 of 3: Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm
On the farm, they’re enemies…
On paper, they’re falling in love.
Amanda Stoltzfus would love to get married, but most Amish men aren’t interested in a woman who prefers farm work to housework. Good thing her secret pen pal L.D. values her for who she is, unlike Amanda’s snarky rival, the irritating new goat farmer, David Troyer. But when Amanda arranges a long-anticipated meeting with her pen pal, she discovers it’s David! Soon they find themselves locked in a battle that will make or break the future of both their farms. Can they set aside their rivalry and look beyond the surface to find their perfect match?
My favorite quote is
It’s funny that two pen pals who’ve never met could have so much in common. I’m pretty sure you’re the only person who gets why I love farming more than housework. Sure, I know how to cook, clean, sew and all that. But after my father died, my brother was the only one left on our goat farm to do the men’s work, so I’ve been able to get away with doing those chores, since he needed help. My sisters have to do a good bit of the farm work too. It takes a team effort to keep this place running. But they don’t love it like I do.
I recommend this book.
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise
is a 5 -star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Virginia Wise.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
Book 2 of 3: Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm
On the farm, they’re enemies…
On paper, they’re falling in love.
Amanda Stoltzfus would love to get married, but most Amish men aren’t interested in a woman who prefers farm work to housework. Good thing her secret pen pal L.D. values her for who she is, unlike Amanda’s snarky rival, the irritating new goat farmer, David Troyer. But when Amanda arranges a long-anticipated meeting with her pen pal, she discovers it’s David! Soon they find themselves locked in a battle that will make or break the future of both their farms. Can they set aside their rivalry and look beyond the surface to find their perfect match?
My favorite quote is
It’s funny that two pen pals who’ve never met could have so much in common. I’m pretty sure you’re the only person who gets why I love farming more than housework. Sure, I know how to cook, clean, sew and all that. But after my father died, my brother was the only one left on our goat farm to do the men’s work, so I’ve been able to get away with doing those chores, since he needed help. My sisters have to do a good bit of the farm work too. It takes a team effort to keep this place running. But they don’t love it like I do.
I recommend this book.
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise
is a 5 -star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Virginia Wise.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Title: Falling for the Amish Rival
Series; Sisters of Stoneybrook Farms Book #2
Author: Virginia Wise
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Tanya Eby
Publisher: Harlequin Audio/Love Inspired
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4.3 stars
Pub Date: January 27, 2026
Page: 203
David is a goat farmer. Story starts when David is betting for goats and is out bitted by a woman. He is very disappointed and overhears that she is thinks the goats are cute! Yikes- she wants a pet and he was out betted on angora goats – his lively-hood!
Amanda Stoltzfus and Lloyd David Troyer actually are both goat farmers who connect as pen pals over their love of goats. They used initials~ Amanda- MM and David uses LD. They did not connect their rival at the auction.
They continue writing to each other; they are drawn to the person on the other end. In real life, though, they’re reluctant rivals. They can admit there’s attraction, but neither wants to act on it. David is fighting to keep his family farm afloat, while Amanda struggles for acceptance as a woman who chooses the outdoors over the kitchen. Both are determined to prove the value of their farms, putting them directly at odds.
This was such an enjoyable read. I typically like Amish stories and this one did not disappoint.
Want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Audio/Love Inspired for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date is schedule for January 27, 2026.
Series; Sisters of Stoneybrook Farms Book #2
Author: Virginia Wise
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Tanya Eby
Publisher: Harlequin Audio/Love Inspired
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4.3 stars
Pub Date: January 27, 2026
Page: 203
David is a goat farmer. Story starts when David is betting for goats and is out bitted by a woman. He is very disappointed and overhears that she is thinks the goats are cute! Yikes- she wants a pet and he was out betted on angora goats – his lively-hood!
Amanda Stoltzfus and Lloyd David Troyer actually are both goat farmers who connect as pen pals over their love of goats. They used initials~ Amanda- MM and David uses LD. They did not connect their rival at the auction.
They continue writing to each other; they are drawn to the person on the other end. In real life, though, they’re reluctant rivals. They can admit there’s attraction, but neither wants to act on it. David is fighting to keep his family farm afloat, while Amanda struggles for acceptance as a woman who chooses the outdoors over the kitchen. Both are determined to prove the value of their farms, putting them directly at odds.
This was such an enjoyable read. I typically like Amish stories and this one did not disappoint.
Want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Audio/Love Inspired for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date is schedule for January 27, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I laughed until I cried throughout this story. My husband kept asking me what was so funny and I told him.
This book was such a delight it made my day. I love this author's stories and I look forward to reading them because they make me happy lol.
I loved Amanda and Daniel! I knew I would even before opened this sweet book.
Belinda the goose made laugh too. But I loved the goats more. I learned much about them.
They're sweet but they get antsy too. Especially when a certain scene happened.
This book shows that all things work out for the good in God's plans if we only trust Him.
5 stars for a wonderful adventure that I simply absolutely adored.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this sweet book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine!!!
This book was such a delight it made my day. I love this author's stories and I look forward to reading them because they make me happy lol.
I loved Amanda and Daniel! I knew I would even before opened this sweet book.
Belinda the goose made laugh too. But I loved the goats more. I learned much about them.
They're sweet but they get antsy too. Especially when a certain scene happened.
This book shows that all things work out for the good in God's plans if we only trust Him.
5 stars for a wonderful adventure that I simply absolutely adored.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this sweet book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine!!!
February 4, 2026
The characters were charming and easy to root for, especially the FMC. She was a total spitfire with so much personality, and she quickly became my favorite part of the story. I loved her strength, her attitude, and the way she brought energy to every scene she was in. Even though the book wasn’t quite my style, I can appreciate how well it was written and how sweet the romance was overall.
This book was really well written and genuinely cute, but ultimately it just wasn’t the right fit for me. It ended up being my first and probably only Amish romance, simply because that genre isn’t usually my thing. That said, if you do enjoy Amish romances, I can absolutely see why you’d love this one.
This book was really well written and genuinely cute, but ultimately it just wasn’t the right fit for me. It ended up being my first and probably only Amish romance, simply because that genre isn’t usually my thing. That said, if you do enjoy Amish romances, I can absolutely see why you’d love this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Stoneybrook Farm held lots of memories, but no one could have guessed the new ones to come, all because of penpals, LD (Lloyd’s David) and MM (Mini Manda). It seemed sparks could fly even in their written correspondence, but would meeting in person evoke the same? With a farm to save, a contract to be renewed, competition could prove to be the deciding factor. And let’s not forget the ever constant watchgoose, Belinda, who is on the job 24/7! A witty, fun, sweet story leaving a smile on my face as I read The End!
January 31, 2026
This is an Amish romance. It was short, just over 5 hours long, so there wasn't much depth to this book. Amanda's family had one of the largest goat farms in the area. She had been corresponding with a man called L.D. who is learning about goat farming. Amanda is at a sale in a bidding war against a man called David for a pair of prized goats. She wins the bid, but gains a friendship.
3 stars
Many thanks to Net Galley and Harlequin Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
Many thanks to Net Galley and Harlequin Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2026
Fantastic
This is an absolutely fantastic story! I loved Amanda and David's initial meeting and how the pieces to their relationship fell into place little by little. I found myself laughing numerous times with their back-and-forth banter. Their family members who contributed to their relationship were also quite amusing. Amanda and Dave each have their own share of difficulties to deal with, which cause more than one bump in the road to their relationship. However, the way it all plays out is sure to touch your heart and put a smile on your face.
This is an absolutely fantastic story! I loved Amanda and David's initial meeting and how the pieces to their relationship fell into place little by little. I found myself laughing numerous times with their back-and-forth banter. Their family members who contributed to their relationship were also quite amusing. Amanda and Dave each have their own share of difficulties to deal with, which cause more than one bump in the road to their relationship. However, the way it all plays out is sure to touch your heart and put a smile on your face.
March 31, 2026
This was a shortie but a goodie. My first Amish Romance and it was so fun to get a glimpse into those kinds of dynamics. David was so sweet and just wanted to do right by his family, Amanda was whitty, stubborn and was determined to be the goat farmer she knew she could be. the banter had my laughing out loud and the romance aspect was super sweet.
December 27, 2025
Oh, my gosh! Oh, my gosh! Oh, my gosh! This is one of those books that sneaks up on you and suddenly has you feeling everything at once. I kept thinking I would read just one more chapter, only to find myself far more invested than planned and wishing my workday would pause so I could keep reading.
The fact that Amanda and David were secret pen pals and couldn't recognize each other is so fun. This makes their first interaction so odd and strange. That hidden connection adds another layer to what is already an enemies to more romance, letting emotional closeness develop long before either one is willing to admit what is really happening.
There is so much here for readers who appreciate faith woven naturally into romance. Watching Amanda wrestle with humility and David confront his sense of failure made me think about how easily self worth can become tied to performance rather than faith. By the end, I was left with a renewed reminder that trusting God often means releasing our need to measure up.
The fact that Amanda and David were secret pen pals and couldn't recognize each other is so fun. This makes their first interaction so odd and strange. That hidden connection adds another layer to what is already an enemies to more romance, letting emotional closeness develop long before either one is willing to admit what is really happening.
There is so much here for readers who appreciate faith woven naturally into romance. Watching Amanda wrestle with humility and David confront his sense of failure made me think about how easily self worth can become tied to performance rather than faith. By the end, I was left with a renewed reminder that trusting God often means releasing our need to measure up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Virginia Wise writes about the unexpected rival of two secret pen pals. There are fun surprises as you read. Enjoy!
January 28, 2026
An adorable rival romance! The narrator did a good job with this story!
I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
February 23, 2026
I love this book. It’s the sweetest romance nonsexual book I’ve ever read!!! I would love to see more books like this.
March 10, 2026
Loved the story
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise is the second book in her Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm series. Loved this story of Amanda and David who become anonymous pen pals over their love of goats. Becoming rivals for the same contract puts a damper on the romance. Falling in love over pages can be easier than in person. Faith, Family and Friends, can Amanda allow David in? Read and find out! Thank you to #VirginiaWise for this Arc. This is my honest review.
January 29, 2026
This is not a bad read especially if you love amish goat farming. But for me, I went out on a limb reading this one. I wanted to broaden my reading a bit, and if I were ever going to read an Amish romance, this plot sounded like the one for me. Secret pen pals is my trope. However… this didn’t quite work for me the way I hoped. But I felt pretty lost towards the beginning. I was genuinely confused about how the main characters even became pen pals in the first place. How are they communicating? Are they writing letters? How did this all start? None of that was clearly explained, and it felt like important context was missing. I’m assuming this information is covered in book one (about a different sister), but a true interconnected standalone would remind you of that information incase you didn’t read the first book. Also… these are rival goat farmers, and they talk about goats. A lot. I was not emotionally prepared for how much of this book would be about goats and goat farming. If you love detailed farm life and livestock talk, this might be a plus .
February 5, 2026
Part of an interconnected series with characters that overlap. Can be read as a standalone but better if read in order.
Secret pen pals growing closer
Enemies at first sight
Both desperate to prove themselves
Unconventional personality
Both fluent in miss speaking
Both incapable of reading between the lines
Secret pen pals growing closer
Enemies at first sight
Both desperate to prove themselves
Unconventional personality
Both fluent in miss speaking
Both incapable of reading between the lines
February 5, 2026
This was a sweet Amish romance and my first Amish book I’ve read. It has enemies-to-lovers, pen pals and it has goats and so much more. The story line was really good and sweet and so was David and Amanda’s romance. I plan on reading the first book.
January 27, 2026
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise is the second book in her Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm series. Loved this story of Amanda and David who become anonymous pen pals over their love of goats. Becoming rivals for the same contract puts a damper on the romance. Falling in love over pages can be easier than in person. Faith, Family and Friends, can Amanda allow David in? Read and find out! Thank you to #VirginiaWise for this Arc. This is my honest review.
January 27, 2026
Falling for the Amish Rival by Virginia Wise is the second book in her Sisters of Stoneybrook Farm series. Loved this story of Amanda and David who become anonymous pen pals over their love of goats. Becoming rivals for the same contract puts a damper on the romance. Falling in love over pages can be easier than in person. Faith, Family and Friends, can Amanda allow David in? Read and find out! Thank you to #VirginiaWise for this Arc. This is my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews