Newcomers are always welcome in the rural Amish community of Walden, Ohio, but in this heartwarming inspirational romance from beloved New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Shelley Shepard Gray, a 50-something couple planning for early retirement learn even the simple life can sometimes be complicated. For fans of Beverly Lewis, Amy Clipston, and Charlotte Hubbard—and anyone who enjoys wholesome, uplifting stories about faith, family, and love.
SIMULTANEOUS HARDCOVER AND TRADE PAPERBACK RELEASE!
Early retirement never sounded so good to Mervin and Ruthie Miller. After a lifetime in Millersburg, where Mervin worked at a furniture and shed factory and Ruthie helped out at a fabric store, they have exciting They’re going to become “Amish Gentlemen Farmers.” That means buying a 30-acre, ramshackle farm, and all that comes with it—no matter what their grown children, friends, and aching muscles think . . .
Aaron Miller is worried about his parents, but there’s little he can do now that he lives in Kentucky and has a baby on the way. Then his childhood best friend, Kyle Burkholder, makes a heaven-sent he’ll move in with Aaron’s parents to teach them about raising cows, sheep, and chickens, and even give weekly reports to Aaron.
The arrangement is going well—until Kyle stumbles upon Daisy Lapp who’s just been in a bicycle accident. When he takes her to the hospital, he knows there’s something special between them. So does Daisy. But her something special is the fact that Kyle lives on the farm she’d always dreamed of buying one day. She knows it’s wrong, but she’s jealous. She wants nothing to do with Kyle and politely tells him so.
Still, like the Millers, Kyle’s not one to give up easily. Not on himself, not on the farm, and certainly not on Daisy. With dedication and a leap of faith, the lives they envisioned just might come true . . .
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations. Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
Loved this book about an retired Amish couple who decide to buy a farm. They need help farming and Kyle promises them a year of help running the farm for them. Kyle meets Daisy who lives next door and they become friends. Just when Daisy and Kyle are getting to know each other, Kyle meets Winter and they start seeing each other. It’s a great story to enjoy.
I loved this wonderful Amish romance. I loved Daisy, Kyle, Mervin and Ruthie. I enjoyed that Mervin and Ruthie wanted to try farming even though they had no idea what they were doing. I loved watching as the romance grows between Daisy and Kyle with a few hiccups along the way. I loved the few twists and turns as the story unfolds. I look forward to the next book in the series. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.
Featuring: Series List for The Amish ABCs Series and The Amish of Apple Creek Series, Epigraphs, January, Walden, Ohio; Kentuckian LI, Resentment Trope, Roadblocks Trope, Siblings, Grandparents, Farming, Old Order Amish, New Order Amish, Joining the Community Trope, Dual POVs, Family Dynamics, Leg Cast, Bully, Friends-to-Lovers, Matchmaking, German, Dreams, Purpose, September, Self-Actualization, Author’s Note, Acknowledgements
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🐄🌼🩼✝️
My thoughts: I was hoping this series would go the distance. I don't care if Z is for Zucchini or Zimmermann, I don't want this series to end. We have moved on for the original English-raised siblings, but we're still in Walden. It seems the next 3 books, hopefully through F, will feature a older couple who recently purchased a farm. I'm not sure if the love matches will center around Daisy's brothers, but I'm hoping for it. Clearly Ruthie has a good eye for matchmaking. I enjoyed this story and practically read it in a single sitting with a few distractions in between. I can't wait till the next installment this autumn, although I'm even more excited for the start of the Amish Widows Club series.
Recommend to others: Yes! Shelley Shepard Gray crafts the most heartfelt characters who face challenges within the embrace of family and community.
Amish ABCs 1. A is for Amish (2024) 2. B is for Bonnet (2025) 3. C is for Courting (2025) 4. D Is for Daisy (2026) 5. E Is for Englischer (2026)
Books and Authors mentioned: The Book of Philippians by Apostle Paul with Timothy
Memorable Quotes: “Everyone has difficulties, don’t they?”“I reckon so.”He swallowed, “I don’t know if this will help, but someone once told me that life isn’t a windy road. It’s more of a long journey through jungles and prairies and sometimes even river crossings.”Daisy raised her eyebrows. “That’s a lot.”“I’ve always liked that comparison because it felt apt. Like a river crossing. Sometimes, the river is shallow. Or calm. Or it’s just a little thing, something that wasn’t hard to swim across without even getting winded. But other times, it’s a perilous thing. The water is deep, the current is strong. Or there are water moccasins in it.”“Or maybe it’s not too terrible, but the traveler never learned to swim,”she said softly. He nodded, liking her example a lot. “Exactly. That river crossing might not be difficult for an Olympic swimmer. But for someone who never learned to do much besides dog paddle? It’s a scary, dangerous thing indeed.”Leaning back, he shrugged. “But who is to say that one person is better than the other?”It’s just where they are in life, ain’t so?”“The Olympian might have no experience trudging through the prairie.”Glad she understood what he’d been trying to convey, Kyle smiled at her again. “This moment in your life might be your treacherous river crossing, Daisy Lapp. And what that means to me is that I don’t care if you need to take double the amount of time as other people, or that you need a life preserver, or even if you have to walk down a mile and cross where it feels safer. All I think you should care about is getting across.”
D Is for Daisy (Amish ABCs) by Shelley Shepard Gray Book 5 of 5: Amish ABCs
Newcomers are always welcome in the rural Amish community of Walden, Ohio, but in this heartwarming inspirational romance from beloved New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Shelley Shepard Gray, a 50-something couple planning for early retirement learn even the simple life can sometimes be complicated. For fans of Beverly Lewis, Amy Clipston, and Charlotte Hubbard—and anyone who enjoys wholesome, uplifting stories about faith, family, and love.
SIMULTANEOUS HARDCOVER AND TRADE PAPERBACK RELEASE!
Early retirement never sounded so good to Mervin and Ruthie Miller. After a lifetime in Millersburg, where Mervin worked at a furniture and shed factory and Ruthie helped out at a fabric store, they have exciting plans: They’re going to become “Amish Gentlemen Farmers.” That means buying a 30-acre, ramshackle farm, and all that comes with it—no matter what their grown children, friends, and aching muscles think . . .
Aaron Miller is worried about his parents, but there’s little he can do now that he lives in Kentucky and has a baby on the way. Then his childhood best friend, Kyle Burkholder, makes a heaven-sent offer: he’ll move in with Aaron’s parents to teach them about raising cows and chickens, and even give weekly reports to Aaron.
The arrangement is going well—until Kyle stumbles upon Daisy Lapp who’s just been in a bicycle accident. When he visits her in the hospital, he knows there’s something special between them. So does Daisy. But her something special is the fact that Kyle lives on the farm she’d always dreamed of buying one day. She knows it’s wrong, but she’s jealous. She wants nothing to do with Kyle and politely tells him so.
Still, like the Millers, Kyle’s not one to give up easily. Not on himself, not on the farm, and certainly not on Daisy. With dedication and a leap of faith, the lives they envisioned just might come true . . . My favorite quote is Still, Kyle's not one to give up easily. Not on himself, not on the farm, and certainly not on Daisy. With dedication and a leap of faith, the lives they envisioned just might come true... I recommend reading this book. D Is for Daisy (Amish ABCs) by Shelley Shepard Gray is a 5-star book. I am looking forward to reading more books by Shelley Shepard Gray. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
I would like to thank Goodreads for sending me a copy of D is for Daisy which is book #4 in this Amish ABC's and the first book I have read in the series. I enjoyed reading the book and want to read other books in the series. Daisy Lapp is 24 years old and lives with her parents and two brothers on their Amish farm. Daisy has always dreamed of having her own farm and she was trying to work saving money to buy the neighbors farm and she thought they had an agreement but they sold their farm to an early retirement couple, Mervin and Ruthie Miller, who thought they would enjoy farming but knew little about the job. They have two adult children and their son Aaron Miller is worried they need help farming and he invited his childhood best friend, Kyle Burkholder, to come work for his parents. Kyle needs a distraction from a break-up with his girlfriend and accepts the job. Kyle also has a sister who has a hearing disability. Kyle meets Daisy when she has an electric bike accident that breaks her leg and leaves her in a cast. Daisy is different from most girls. She loves farming and animals. She helps Ruthie with her depressed cow, Velvet. Daisy would rather farm and spend time with the animals than sew, cook and clean. Daisy is a bit awkward and a bit of a tomboy. Kyle meets a girl named Winter Walker who is beautiful but not very nice. Kyle doesn't really know her and likes her because she is feminine and appears to need him. Daisy doesn't tell Kyle that Winter was mean to her growing up but Daisy has always felt like a bit of a misfit. She is loved by her family and her brothers are protective of her. Daisy is creative and even makes a chicken swing. I highly recommend that you buy, gift, but most importantly read this story of Daisy and Kyle and see how their relationship progresses. Daisy learns that the only thing she can completely control is the way she viewed herself. She learned that all she needed to be was herself and the Lord had already planned for everything to happen in His perfect timing. I loved this story. Ruthie was kind to her neighbors, the Lapps, baking cakes and pies and helping Kyle find his way. I liked the way they talked to Velvet the milk cow. I know you will enjoy this read and won't be disappointed.
Shelley Shepard Gray is writing one of my favorite inspirational series, the Amish ABCs. Planned as a five-book series, the final installment, E Is for Englischer, is scheduled for release in November of this year. Set in the Amish community of Walden, Ohio, this series combines faith, heartwarming romance, and a close-knit community to create stories that are both uplifting and comforting.
This fourth installment, D is for Daisy, focuses on Kyle Burkholder and Daisy Lapp. Kyle is doing a favor for his best friend, Aaron, by moving in with Aaron’s parents, Mervin and Ruthie Miller, to teach them about farming. The Millers have purchased a farm despite knowing very little about farm life, and Aaron hopes Kyle’s help will ease his worries while he lives out of state.
One day, Daisy is injured in a bicycle accident, and Kyle rushes her to the hospital. The attraction between them is undeniable, but there is one significant obstacle. Kyle is now living on the very farm Daisy had long dreamed of buying herself. Although she can’t deny her growing feelings for Kyle, her disappointment over losing the farm makes it difficult to spend time with him. Hoping to protect her heart, Daisy is determined to keep her distance.
This is a lovely story about determination, second chances, and trusting God’s plan even when life doesn’t unfold as expected. Kyle is exactly the person the Millers need to help them succeed on the farm, and Mervin and Ruthie are such warm, endearing characters that it’s impossible not to root for them. Faith, hope, and perseverance blend beautifully with the sweet, slow-building romance between Kyle and Daisy, making this another wonderful addition to a series I continue to enjoy.
Many thanks to Kensington and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Coming to your favorite retailer this Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
I am a sucker for series. Don’t ask me how many I have going as I don’t even know. 😆 I have been so into the Amish ABCs by @shelley.s.gray
D is for Daisy is a clean slow burn romance. Daisy is a little different than your typical Amish woman. She has always dreamed of owning her own farm. Unfortunately, the farm she wanted was bought by another couple, Ruthie and Mervin. “Gentlemen” farmers meaning this is their retirement. They are not farmers and their son realizes they need help. Insert Kyle from Kentucky. He agrees to work on the farm for a year. Kyle rescues Daisy after a disastrous e-bike accident. Kyle and Daisy become friends but others think they should be more than friends.
I loved Daisy’s character. I could relate somewhat to her. I was a little different than a lot of others when I was younger. I felt her hurt when she would discuss being teased in school. Being that I had leg braces, glasses, and braces all through elementary school in that order I have heard all the names. Thank goodness for parents who taught me what really mattered.
Kyle has a good heart even if a woman beautiful on the outside but disgustingly ugly veered him in the wrong direction for a bit. I’m really hoping we get a book on his sister!
Go ahead and order your copy for release day. You can read these books in any order. Why not treat yourself to all four now? There will be more coming…
I received a complimentary copy from the author with no requirement to review positively. All thoughts and wording above are my own.
This story tugged on my heartstrings and stirred my imagination as I was mesmerized by the story of perceptive Kyle and low-esteem Daisy. Kyle leaves home and moves in with Ruthie and Mervin Miller, wannabe farmers who have no idea what they are doing so Kyle is a godsend. Kyle is a willing worker and is also a good friend to neighbor Daisy. Daisy has a broken leg after a bicycle accident and Kyle attentively brings her flowers and checks on her. The progression of their relationship seems natural and even when there are bumps on the road, like another young Amish woman to whom Kyle is attracted, their friendship continues. I enjoyed the well-written plot with the addition of the drama and the discovery by Daisy that she is talented and worthy of loving. The characters were realistic, the plot moved along at a good pace and kept me engaged in the story. My favorite character was Velvet the cow…yes, the cow! Velvet didn’t say anything with words but her actions said a lot and she contributed to the choices that the characters made along the way. Velvet was kind of like Lucy in the Peanuts cartoons, offering advice that the people already knew but they had to talk to her to know that they knew it. Velvet was a humorous and welcome addition to the story, and I hope she will be in future alphabet books in this series. I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Daisy Lapp has always dreamed of owning a farm and that dream shatters when the Millers take the farm she had her heart set on. After a chance encounter and a minor bicycle accident, tension and sparks fly between Daisy and Kyle, the farmhand the Miller's hired to help out. Daisy is initially envious and wants nothing to do with him, but Kyle’s persistence and dedication set the stage for a lovely journey of hope, community, and second chances.
While the central premise of the Miller farm is fun and charming, Daisy is hands down the standout character of the book. Her character arc is incredibly well-written, moving, and uniquely memorable. Watching Daisy transition from initial jealousy and self-doubt into a confident young woman who truly learns to believe in herself is deeply gratifying. Honestly, one of the coolest and most creative aspects of her journey was the development of the chicken swings! Watching her take pride in her chicken swing business adds a wonderful layer of charm and entrepreneurial spirit to her personal growth.
With a great mix of humor (who knew gentleman farming with a tempermental cow could be so chaotic?), strong family bonds, and a steady, believable romance, this novel is a cozy winner. Kyle’s determination paired with Daisy’s inspiring journey of self belief makes this a book you won't want to put down.
3.75 stars Out of all of the books in this series, this is my favorite one so far! It was so adorable and the story was fun and made me want to go to a farm and work.
Daisy has never had a beau. She does have a dream of having her own farm one day though. She was really close to buying the farm next door, but an Amish couple bought it instead. She's so devasted. When Kyle comes to help the couple out with their farmwork for the next year (their son is his best friend), he starts to meet the people in the community. This includes coming across Daisy, who just so happens to become severely injured as he watches.
This story is about the friendship formed between Kye and Daisy, their own relationships with their siblings (Kyle with his deaf sister and Daisy with her older brothers), and even the way the couple that bought the farm handle their farm as they get to know Kyle and Daisy too.
It was wholesome and sweet. There were some setbacks and issues that they went through here and there, and I really enjoyed how the story had been developed. It was one that made me smile a lot while I read it. The deaf representation was really well done too and I appreciated it.
content: injuries talked about and a bit of teasing and bullying
Shelley Shepherd Gray has given us a delightful book in Hirsch ABC series. Release day is June 30, 2027. Thank you so much Kingston publishing for allowing me to read an ARC of this five star book.
Mervin and Ruthie Miller retire to a small Amish farm in Millersburg. Needless to say, neither knew how hard farming could be. Their next-door neighbor, Daisy Lapp really wanted to buy the farm, but working in the bulk store couldn’t bring in enough money and besides, she was a girl.
Kyle Burkholder moves in with the Miller’s as their hired hand. After he helps Daisy after a bike accident, they become friends.
Through this book we are taught that patients is the key to following God‘s plan for our lives. Sometimes our plans are not God‘s plans.
The characters in the story are very realistic and likable. There is also a cow named velvet in the story that plays an important role.
I highly recommend this new addition to the series and suggest you read the others in order to follow and understand the chain of events.
All opinions are my own and I was not ask to give a positive review.
I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway.
D is for Daisy completely surprised me. While I usually gravitate toward darker, more suspenseful novels, this heartwarming Amish romance drew me in with its wonderful characters and had me eager to keep turning the pages.
Daisy was easily my favorite character. She never sacrificed who she was to fit other people’s expectations, and I found myself rooting for her from beginning to end. Her journey of following her heart was inspiring, and seeing the people who truly loved her stand beside her made for some of my favorite moments in the book.
The pacing felt smooth throughout, making it a quick and enjoyable read. Although there was one character whose actions continually frustrated me, that only made me care more deeply about Daisy and hope she would find the happiness she deserved.
Shelley Shepard Gray delivers a warm, uplifting story about family, faith, perseverance, and staying true to yourself. If you’re looking for a feel-good novel with memorable characters and a romance worth cheering for, I highly recommend giving D is for Daisy a read.
D is for Daisy is a fun read filled with family, faith, and romance. I enjoyed that the author styled Daisy as an atypical Amish woman that is more interested in animals, farming, and the outdoors than sewing, cooking, and quilting. Daisy wanted nothing more than to be able to purchase a neighboring farm and become a lady farmer but must deal with the disappointment of Mervin and Ruthie Miller beating her to the punch as they become retirement farmers. Kyle Burkholder, a friend of the Miller's son, agrees to come help on their new farm and teach them what they need to know. When Kyle meets Daisy after she has a bicycle accident, the excitement and romance begin, even if Daisy and Kyle don't realize it yet. As Daisy recovers from her accident injuries, she gets to know Kyle better and learns that sometimes what we think we want from life is not what God has planned. Sometimes there is something better. I enjoyed Daisy's character growth and seeing her friendship with Kyle bloom. This book was a pleasant read and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
D is for Daisy is Shelley Shepard Gray's fourth book in the Amish ABCs series. The two central characters are Daisy Lapp, a single Amish woman who doesn't fit the traditional mold for an Amish woman. She'd much rather be working out in the barn than sewing. Kyle Burkholder, a young Amish man who's come to Walden, OH, to help out a retired couple on their farm is the other main character. When Kyle stops on the road to help Daisy, who's been in an accident with her e-bike, he senses that there's something special about her. Will Daisy be able to see past the fact that Kyle is working on the farm that she so wanted to be hers?
This is the first book that I've read in the Amish ABCs series, and it was an enjoyable read to me. I liked the characters in the story, and I'm always pleased with a clean read where faith is involved. If you enjoy Amish romance, you won't want to miss this book releasing Jun 30.
Thanks to #KensingtonPublishing and #NetGalley for an advanced e-pub of this book.
D is for Daisy by Shelley Shepard Gray is a charming and heartwarming Amish story with delightful characters and an uplifting message. Daisy quickly won me over with her lively spirit and unconventional ways. Unlike many Amish women, she feels most at home in the barn rather than in the house, and her deep love for animals makes her especially endearing. Kyle is a wonderful match for her, and I enjoyed watching their story unfold. I also found Kyle’s bosses, Mr. and Mrs. Miller, to be entertaining additions to the story as they enthusiastically buy a farm without having any real idea how to run one. Their situation adds humor and warmth to the book. This sweet story blends hope, friendship, family, romance, and faith in a way that feels sincere and encouraging. Although D is for Daisy is the fourth book in the Amish ABC’s series, it can easily be read as a standalone. With its lovable characters, gentle humor, and heartfelt message, D is for Daisy is a sweet Amish romance that blooms with hope from beginning to end.
The fourth in the Amish ABC's series. D is for Daisy tells the tale of Melvin and Ruthie Miller. Early retirement has persuaded them to become farmers in the Walden Ohio. Since they know nothing about farming, Aaron Miller worries that his parents are in over their heads. Heaven sent best friend Kyle Burkholder agrees to move in with them in order to teach them how to farm. Enter D is for Daisy Daisy Lapp. Never one for women's work, Daisy enjoys farming and all that comes with it. With her eye on the 30 acres next door to her parents, Daisy dreamed of the day she could buy it and farm the land. Much to her disappointment, Melvin and Ruthie beat her to it. An accident brings Kyle and Daisy together. Feeling jealous that he lives and works the land she so wanted, Daisy is stubborn and doesn't exactly treat him kindly. Through dedication and a leap of faith, will Daisy and Kyle be able to come together? I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required. I look forward to the next in the series.
We are up to the fourth book in the Amish ABCs series and how fun it is. An older retired couple who doesn't really know anything about farming move to one and quickly find themselves in over their heads. Not really knowing how to run a farm but even their adult children see it and recommend they get help. With help from a newcomer to the area things start turning around. I loved meeting the variety of animals. We meet Amish woman Daisy as she has a bicycle accident. She had big dreams to buy the farm the retired couple just did. I really enjoyed all of the characters, Kyle and Daisy have a sweet slow burn romance, the retired couple are slowly getting it together and are so kind. I loved Daisy's smart way of making money and it happened on accident. Velvet the cow is such a sweetie as well. Greatly looking forward to continuing this series as it's full of down-to-earth relatable characters, perseverance, charm and humor.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Daisy finds her life turned upside down. She's in her 20's, the farm next door to her parent's farm that she's been saving her money for has been sold out from under her, she has no boyfriend, she's just had an accident on her new e- bike resulting in a broken leg and loses her job because of it Her life is sounding a lot like Job's. She is feeling very discouraged. When Kyle starts helping the new farm owners next door, she takes an interest in him. The interest is not returned. Instead, Daisy forms a friendship with Velvet the cow who also seems to be depressed As time goes on, things begin to change. Daisy realizes that God had a plan for her and her life all along. She just needed to trust Him and wait on His perfect timing. This is a good read with a lot of great characters. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #disfordaisy #kensington
D is for Daisy is part of the Amish Alphabet series set in Amish country in Ohio. Kyle is new to the community and is there to help the Millers, his friend's parents, who are struggling to work their new farm. Daisy lives on the farm next door and wanted to buy the Miller farm but wasn't able to afford it yet. Kyle and Daisy meet when she has a tumble on her electric bike, breaking her leg. This starts a friendship with ups and downs. It is a fun story with a cute cow named Velvet that is a good listener among lots of realistic, likable human characters. Daisy lost her job because of her broken leg and has some down time to ponder her future, learn some patience, and come to grips with being happy with herself. Kyle has his own time of soul searching and realizing what he wants. This is a sweet romance threaded with faith. I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review and these are my thoughts.
D is for Daisy by Shelley Shepard Gray is the fourth installment of the Amish ABC's Series and this is my favorite one so far.
There were so many engaging and fun and not so fun personalities throughout the entire story, it's always great to have a side character to add to the mix and make things interesting and create a twist.
I have to say that Daisy is my favorite of the story, I felt like I could relate to her in so many ways and have also felt some of the same emotions she was going through. Daisy was such a relatable character on so many levels.
Mervin and Ruthie seemed like a sweet couple and I would like to explore them a little more. Kyle sometimes I wanted to shake him to help him get his head on right. LOL
Also, we all need a Velvet the cow in our lives. I would highly recommend this story. Yes, it can be read as a stand-alone, but the entire series is really good.
Daisy Lapp's dreams are over. Everything is falling apart. Mervin and Ruthie Miller have purchased her dream farm out from under her. She's single with no plans left. There is no hope as she lies broken in body and spirit on the side of the rode, tangles in her bike. Kyle Burkholder left his community after having his heart broken by the woman he planned to marry. As a favor to Aaron Miller he offers to work on his good friend's parent's new farm to help the retirees learn how to live the farming life. The Millers aren't quite up to the different kind of life they have gotten themselves into. I want to thank Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy of Shelley Shepard Grays' fourth book in the Amish ABC's series. This is my own opinion of the book; D is for Daisy. I thoroughly enjoyed it. There is always a heart of soul in Gray's Amish stories and a thread of humor throughout. She certainly has a serious topic and a faith journey for her characters. The older Millers have no idea what they are doing dealing with livestock and planting crops. Ruthie can barely deal with a cow. Kyle comes in as a hero as more ways than one. He is not perfect and his adventure can give a reader angst. Daisy is the main person who had a lot to journey through. I really like how the author carried her along through hard changes and paths she never imagined. It's a good story and a new community for the Amish ABC's line. I like it very much. It's a 5-star read for me.
D is for Daisy is warm, charming, witty, and has depth. While I chuckled often, I still felt bad for Ruthie and Kyle. And Velvet the cow got to listen to all of it.
Ruthie learned the hard way that our plans don’t always line up with God’s. And while it’s for our best it can still hurt. And can cause us to place the blame on others. Like poor Kyle, who is just trying to help his friend’s parents learn how to be farmers. Kyle didn’t give up on Ruthie and I loved his tenacity.
I will say that this particular story didn’t have the easy flow that author Shelley Shepard Gray is known for. I struggled to find her voice in the writing. But I would still recommend it. The storyline is really good and the characters so enjoyable. It was a satisfying read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
Sometimes it's nice to slow down and read a story that feels gentle. D is for Daisy surprised me with how much I cared about the characters. I loved Daisy's determination and strength, especially in a world where women are expected to fit into a very specific role. She quietly challenges those expectations without losing the kindness that makes her so easy to root for.
One of my favorite parts was the relationship with her brother. His protectiveness came from a place of genuine love, and I enjoyed watching that dynamic unfold throughout the story.
The Amish courting process was another highlight. It was sweet, intentional, and a refreshing change from the fast-paced romances I usually read.
If you're looking for a wholesome, character-driven story with family, faith, and a quietly strong heroine, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try.
I love getting lost in these reads, so far four books in this series, and yes, these can be read alone! This is Daisy's story, but also Aaron, and Ruthie and Mervin, with this being the Miller's retirement! Loved the author's note that there will be more books featuring the Miller's! Daisy has not had an easy time of it, and right as she meets Aaron disaster strikes. I did chuckle with her amazing idea, and could just picture those chickens, and totally think it was feasible, knowing chickens! There is a bit or I should say a couple of sweet Amish romances, and a look at some Amish social events. I really can't wait for the next read in this story! I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
This book didn’t disappoint I have really enjoyed each book in this series. In this book Daisy is a heartwarming character who dares to step outside the quote normal role in her community. It’s a story of possibilities, character and trusting in your faith to carry you through those difficult times on your journey. It’s a story of coming to terms with your abilities and yet knowing it’s when we truly trust in the journey your world will blossom into something so much more than we thought possible. I can’t wait to see where the next book takes us and I really encourage you all to read this book as well as the series. I was blessed with a copy of this book however all opinions are mine. Happy reading.
Another Beautiful story by Shelley Shepard Gray. I fell in love with these characters. The way the story is written was so realistic. I could just picture myself looking through a window watching as Daisy and Kyle’s friendship blossoms. Daisy is a single Amish woman, with dreams of owning the farm next door to her parents. She knows this is unusual for an Amish woman but she had much rather be working outside than sewing and house work. When the farm sells to someone else Daisy is very unhappy until she meets the new owner’s new helper Kyle. He is attractive and very friendly. He only sees her as a good friend while he is courting a rude class mate of hers. Can Daisy just remain friends with Kyle after having such feeling for him?
“Everyone has been through something, and those experiences shape us all. Sometimes for the worse, and sometimes for the better.” I have really enjoyed this series and am glad that it will continue. D is for Daisy is the beginning of a new trilogy, so you do not have to read the previous books, but a few familiar characters do reappear. Sweet, and a bit predictable, Daisy and Kyle’s story is an enjoyable diversion and is a perfect summer read. I am looking forward to more in the Amish ABCs. *I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
D is for Daisy is a great addition to the Amish ABCs series. While some parts are lighthearted and fun, others are deep and carry messages to reflect on.
One of those messages is how we make our own plans, but our plans don't always line up with God's plans for us. Another is that focusing on outward appearances is not as important as what lies inside. This beautiful and endearing story blends those lessons with themes of self-discovery, romance, family, and more. It is a definite must-read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and voluntary.
I enjoyed reading more about the retired couple and their new venture into farming. It was fun to see them meddle in relationships, especially sending over baked goods.
The relationship and dynamic between Winter and Daisy was interesting but also made me sad.
I loved how all of the big brothers in the story were so protective of their sisters, even if the girls didn't enjoy it as much!
Daisy was such a sweet character and her love for animals was endearing. I particularly enjoyed how she worked with Velvet. It gave me a new perspective on animals.
I was given a copy of the book. The opinions are my own.