This is my first time I think reading a novella (or three). I enjoyed it because the stories were short and quick to read. They kind of flew by, and it didn't take long to get into the story. The characters were relatable (in-spite of the fact they were Amish). For the most part, the stories were predictable, but I would guess that to be common in a novella, since there is really not much time to build the plot to a conclusion. It does include the use of quite a few "Amish" words in it, which can be understood relatively well even if they are not English.
My favorite story was Molly Jebber's Unexpected Christmas Blessing. Charity is a widow and having a hard time getting over her late husband. She has two young children who are polite and lovable kids, although a little outspoken at times, but what kids aren't. A single man, Luke, moves in next door and begins helping her with some needed handiwork as well as entertaining the children. Although he is kind, he is not very open, and seems to be hiding something from his past. Charity needs a husband and her children need a father, but she may have to settle for someone else who is interested in her, even if she has feelings for Luke. Will he open up and let her in? Or will he lose her forever?
I guess my next favorite was Amy Lillard's, A Mamm for Christmas. It is a fun story of three girls whose mother passed away. They are in desperate need of a woman in their lives and they think their father is in need of a wife. So they set about to find him one concocting their own devious way of doing it. The plan somewhat backfires but not before interest is sparked and their father recognized he must move on to take care of his family. Hence Jess' process of looking for a wife begins. And although his daughters would like him to take interest in their school teacher Bernice, his interests seem to lie elsewhere. I think the readers will enjoy this sweet story and these conspiring little girls.
Lastly, Kelly Long's book, A Sleigh Ride on Ice Mountain. Although I really liked the plot in the story, there were several things which I was not particularly pleased with. The plot consisted of a single toy maker with a secret past and his involvement in helping better the life of a young single woman who is taking care of her crippled brother. Her parents had been killed in an accident - the same one in which her brother was injured. Kate is doing her best to make ends meet, when Sebastian comes along and sweeps her off her feet. But when his secret comes out, will Kate still be able to love him?
As I mentioned before, I enjoyed the story itself. Sebastian's kindness, the way he tried to help make her life better without making her a charity case, and how he took her younger brother under his wing. But I was a little bothered by all the sexual intimacy going on. Several times throughout the story there was some heated sensual scenes. It's not usually my preference to read that particular type of content in a book. I sort of got the impression this man had one thing on his mind. Of course, he was in love with Kate.... This content may not bother everyone, but I wouldn't recommend this book for a younger audience. Had the author been a little more discreet, I think I would have enjoyed her book more.
All in all, I am giving this book four stars, because the other stories really were good clean stories. I would love to read another book by Molly Jebber, or ever Amy Lillard. I felt like their stories were true to the Amish traditions I recognize and associate with.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.