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Wells Landing #7

The Quilting Circle

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United by faith, and bonded by their quilting circle, the Amish women of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, are there for one another through all life’s joys and challenges . . .
 
MORE THAN FRIENDSHIP
Youngest quilter Clara Rose Yutzy is planning her wedding to her longtime beau—which is why she resolutely ignores newly warm feelings for her best friend, Obidiah. But Obie is certain God intends them to be together. With the Lord’s help, he’ll prove to Clara Rose how much he loves her . . .
 
MORE THAN A PROMISE
Mariana Miller prayed for a child throughout fifteen years of marriage. But now, newly widowed, Mariana discovers she’s pregnant—with twins! She’s more grateful than ever for her caring community—especially Reuben Weisel, her late husband’s business partner and best friend. Reuben’s quiet strength comforts her—until he proposes marriage . . .
 
MORE THAN A MARRIAGE
Tess Smiley is new to Wells Landing and newly married. But her marriage isn’t the harmonious union she envisioned. Tess loves Jacob with all her heart, but her heart tells her she must take a stand—and ask for support. Only then does Jacob see how he has hurt her. But is he too late? . . .

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2017

73 people are currently reading
508 people want to read

About the author

Amy Lillard

101 books672 followers
I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)

Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Deanne Patterson.
2,407 reviews120 followers
November 17, 2017
Amy Lillard has done it again, that is publish a fun,compassionate Amish book.
There are 3 stories taking place in this collection all taking place with the same characters in Wells Landing .The Quilting Circle ladies are in all three of the books and you can count on them for a listening ear,a helping hand and a beautifully produced quilt.Down home and small town Amish story with caring people that you would want for your neighbors.
Pub Date 31 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
3,922 reviews1,763 followers
November 27, 2017
Isn't this a pretty cover? Very distinctive from anything out there, especially in the Amish genre. The pretty lilac colour makes me smile and invites me to stay awhile. Which I did to immense reader satisfaction.

I think this might be the first time I've read a novella set where all the stories are written by the same author. Lillard takes her readers back to the Amish community in Wells Landing, Oklahoma which is the setting for six of books in the aptly titled Wells Landing series. You don't need to have read those books as these three stories read fine as standalones though they share some of the same characters from the series.

Love the way each novella centers around a quilting circle and how the members look out for each other. They gently insert themselves into three rocky romances much to the delight of this reader. Funny, sweet and poignant.
1,157 reviews13 followers
February 25, 2018
This is a collection of three short stories all set in the same town but they focus on three different people. The first one is about Clara Rose who has been friends with Obie since they were children. Since he never mentioned courting her, she has agreed to marry another. Days before the wedding Obie starts to object and minutes before the ceremony, Obie declares his love for Clara Rose. They end up married soon after. The second story centers around Mariana whose husband just died. He had a long battle with cancer. She recently discovered that she was pregnant. His business partner, Reuben starts to pay her a lot of attention and even though he promised Leroy that he would look after his wife after he died, he is in love with Mariana. Bed rest is prescribed for Mariana because she is older and having twins. The third story is about a young married couple who are having marital problems. Since Amish marry for life, they have a problem. It is all worked out in the end. My favorite was the second story.
Profile Image for Becky.
847 reviews18 followers
November 22, 2017
Amy Lillard writes good Amish fiction, and it's enjoyable even on a re-read. There are three novellas in this book and each one has many of the same characters so that the reader feels a familiarity with the population of Wells Landing and a friendship with all of the ladies of the quilting circle. It is easy to feel empathy for the struggles that the characters endure--from unrequited love to childlessness to unhappiness in marriage. There are times every reader has been in similar positions, but what Amy does is show how the Amish deal with such disappointments.

I've read a couple of the stories before in different collections, so they weren't new to me, but they were like meeting up with old friends. This is a five star collection, with two thumbs up, and a new quilt to keep you warm.

My thanks to Kensington Press for allowing me to read and review this book.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,189 reviews
October 30, 2017
The Quilting Circle ( Wells Landing Quilting Circle #1-3 )
By: Amy Lillard
The Quilting Circle is book one through three and about a group of Amish women from Wells Landing are bonded together and will do anything to help one another out in time of need.
More Than Friendship
I loved this novella . Clara is preparing for her wedding when an old friend is trying to tell her something . Will she listen ?
More Than a Promise
Love this novella and it brought tears to my eyes. A Tragedy happens and what does God Do?
More Than a Marriage
Love this novella too. This is the last novella in this book by Amy Lillard. This is Jacob and Tess’s story . Tess is not happy with Jacob and the way things are going between them. Can they resolve their problems? This was another novella that brought tears to my eyes . You want to tell then to stop and listen to each other.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was bot told that i had to give a positive review.
Profile Image for Sylvia.
1,578 reviews75 followers
April 13, 2018
I Loved this book!! loved all the stories in the book!! Great author starting to read her books!!
467 reviews50 followers
January 25, 2018
The Quilting Circle is a wonderful collection of Novella’s by Amy Lillard. If you love Amish fiction, faith, love, heartache then this is a book for you. Amy has written stories that will surely capture your heart. I can picture the ladies chatting away, while they are sitting around working on their quilting squares for the school fundraiser.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,081 reviews134 followers
October 29, 2017
The book is a wonderful setting where women get together to sew and fellowship. Each story is short but filled with so much emotion and a sense of family. I loved each one and didn’t want the stories to end. Amy knows how to put the right touches on a character to make them come to life. Readers feel like they are sitting in the ladies quilt circle listening to each other share their thoughts. I loved how characters from each story appear in the other stories to make a circle of sorts. They all are friends and share the good and the bad with each other. It is truly a Quilting Circle.

More Than Friendship

I loved this one because Clara Rose was genuine in her relationship with her best friend who happens to be a man. They have known each other forever . Obie is one of those guys you can’t help but like. He is always there to lend a hand and bring a smile to Clara Rose. What happens when Obie finds out that Clara Rose is getting married? Will he step aside and keep his feelings to himself? The story is chocked full of what ifs and trusting yourself. I loved how the author showed us that sometimes we do things thinking it will make us happy. We tend to rush into things without really thinking through how we feel. Don’t miss this lovely story of friendship and true love.

More Than A Promise

Mariana has just lost her husband and is trying to deal with what to do next. Her friends mean well, but sometimes you just need to be alone to grieve. Her friends at the Quilting Circle become concerned when Marianna faints. What secret is Marianna hiding from everyone? The news she gets from the doctor is quite a shock and now she has to have bed rest. How can she do all this on her own? The stress is dangerous for her health and her friends step in to help. I loved her friends and thought they were so supportive of Marianna. I thought her friend Rueben was such a great person. He was her husband’s best friend and I think he felt that he needed to step in and help her out. I cried when Rueben gave her a special gift. My heart went out to Marianna knowing that her road ahead would be hard at times but her trust in God was helping her cope. What I loved about this story is a decision that Marianna makes will have some people questioning her actions. Will Marianna find love again? Will her secret divide the community ? It is a great story about trust and finding happiness .

More Than A Marriage

Tess longs to have children with her husband Jacob. She feels lonely around her husband with him being on a cell phone all the time. I found it strange that he would have a phone but I guess with his work it was a needed item to have. The problem is Jacob spends more time on his phone than quality time with Tess. He seemed to be distracted a lot and Tess soon feels like she wants to go visit her family for awhile. How will Jacob take the news that Tess wants time away from him? When Tess sees how happy her friends are , she longs for the same in her marriage. This made me think that sometimes we run from our problems instead of staying and working them out. Will Tess realize she and Jacob need to communicate their feelings before it is to late? I love when Clara Rose tells Tess, “Don’t let pride get in the way of your marriage.” How many of us are guilty of staying mad because our pride gets the best of us? I really related to this story the most. I always thought things were greener on the other side. Guess what? They aren’t and I really had to swallow my pride and admit I was wrong. This story will give you hope and remind you that God and communication is the key to a good marriage .

I received this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,268 reviews
November 8, 2017
The The Quilting Circle is filled with three wonderful novellas with characters from Lillard’s Wells Landing series along with new members belonging to the quilting circle. I was in the moment with the quilting circle ladies and the primary character of each tale. There were moments of laughter and then tears.

More Than Friendship is about the youngest member, Clara Rose Yutzy, of the quilting circle. Clara Rose and Obie had been the best of friends with Obie expressing he did not feel good about Clara Rose's upcoming marriage to Thomas Lapp. She continues with her wedding plans; however, Obie continues to interfere. Thomas questioned Clara Rose about her relationship with Obie as he should be her best friend with their upcoming wedding. Will this triangle of relationships be resolved when Thomas and Clara Rose are married?

More Than a Promise brought Marianne Miller’s struggles to life and how the quilting circle friends reached out to her. She was uncertain of her future after losing her husband, Leroy Miller of 15 years. She couldn’t believe she was pregnant with twins and all the worries of how she would support herself and the twins. She appreciated her quilting circle friends coming by to assist her along with her deceased husband’s business partner, Reuben Weisel. Reuben was attentive and wanted to do all he could for Marianne. Marianne discovered some information one day that ended with her pushing Reuben out of her life. Will Marianne be able to truly see and open her heart to Reuben?

Tess and Jacob Smiley are the primary characters in More Than a Marriage. Jacob’s family resides in Wells Land while Tess’s family remained in Clairta. Tess wanted to live a simple life while Jacob was becoming more absorbed into the Englisher life with him working for a roofing company. He was more focus on his cell phone than listening to Tess when they did have time alone. There were great struggles and Tess felt like she was all alone when she would see her quilting circle friends and their happiness being married. Marriage takes work and Tess felt as if she had done all she could to have Jacob’s attention. When Jacob mentioned selling her goats---well that was the end for Tess. She was going to leave and return to her family in Clairta. She spent time with Clare Rose and Ollie. Will this happily married couple be able to assist Tess and Jacob in seeing one another in a new light? What will happen to Tess’s goats while she is staying with Clare Rose? Will love cover a multitude of misunderstanding? Will forgiveness and their first love be reunited?

Readers of Lillard’s Wells Landing series will enjoy each account in The Quilting Circle and be able to identify with the members. The characters are realistic with true to life issues. I enjoyed rereading each novella that comprise The Quilting Circle book, as I had read each novella as they were released. I received an ARC of The Quilting Circle from the author and was not required to write a positive review. I have shared by sincere thoughts about these charming stories.
195 reviews9 followers
October 28, 2017
THE QUILTING CIRCLE BY AMY LILLARD

A group of Amish women of Wells Landing meet together to quit, share life's joys, sorrows and they are bound together by their faith and friendship.
The Quilting Circle written by Amy Lillard is a book consisting of three short novellas about the women of this quilting circle.
MORE THAN A FRIENDSHIP
Clara Rose Yutzy is engaged to be married to Thomas Lapp in about six weeks. Her wedding dress is made, her attendants have been chosen and other details have been finalized.
When Obiaiah "Obie" Brenneman , Clara Rose's best friend since childhood, tells Clara Rose that she is making a "big mistake" in marrying Thomas. Clara Rose starts to question her feelings, towards Obie, as she is truly in love with Thomas.
Will Clara Rose go through with her wedding with Thomas and will her and Obie be able to remain best friends, after her marriage to Thomas. Will Clara Rose get over the doubts she is having about her true feelings.
MORE THAN A PROMISE
Mariana Miller has prayed to God for the last fifteen years of her marriage that her and her husband be blessed with a child. When her husband passes on from brain cancer, Mariana finds out that she is pregnant. Knowing that she will be faced with raising this child on her own, Mariana wonders how she can support herself and her child.
Ruben Weisel was Marianan's husband's best friend and business partner. Unknown to Mariana, her husband had ask Ruben to "take care" of her when he passes on. Ruben starts to visit with Mariana, everyday to help her with her chores and spend time with her.
Will something else, other than a promise made to a friend, develop between Mariana and Ruben.
MORE THAN A MARRIAGE
Tess Smiley and her husband moved to Wells Landing after their marriage. All is not harmonious between the two of them. Tess had been hoping for her own house and children; but it seems that Jacob is more occupied by other "things" than paying attention to Tess.
When Tess decides to return to Clarta, where her parents live, what will it take for Jacob to do before it is too late and he almost loses Tess for good.
The Quilting Circle is a book that is full of romance, friendship, and faith and how a group of Amish women are bound together, in helping each other through life's challenges.
The stories are well written and includes other characters from Amy Lillard's Wells Landing series.
I would highly recommend this book. I was provided a copy of The Quilting Circle by the author and publisher


141 reviews3 followers
October 19, 2017
The Quilting Circle is a beautiful collection of three novellas written by Amy Lillard. The Quilting Circle gang is comprised of many remarkable Amish women of Wells Landing, Oklahoma. Each of these novellas share a lovely story of a member of the Quilting Circle.
More Than Friendship is the first novella in the collection and is a very enjoyable read! Clara Rose Yutzy is preparing to be married to Thomas Lapp in six short weeks. Her best friend, Obadiah “Obie” Brenneman, tells her not to marry Thomas because he has a bad feeling about it. Will she listen to her best friend’s advice or will she follow through with her marriage, something she has always looked forward to? This novella can easily be read in one sitting, it’s so good you won’t want to put it down!
The second story in the collection is More Than a Promise. Mariana Miller has recently lost her husband of fifteen years to cancer. They could never have children, but she recently discovers that she is indeed pregnant and having twins! Because there are some complications, the doctor puts her on bed rest. The Quilting Circle gang and her late husband's business partner, Reuben, are most welcome company and a huge blessing! Could her friendship with Reuben develop into a stronger relationship? You will definitely enjoy reading this sweet novella and finding out the rest of Mariana's story.
More Than a Marriage is the final story in this collection. Jacob and Tess Smiley have been married for over three years now. Tess is very frustrated because Jacob is always checking his facebook account on his cell phone and ignoring her. The English roofing company he works for gave him a cell phone for his job. Tess is also upset because of Jacob’s wants to sell her beloved goats! Tess decides her best option is to move back home to her family in Clarita. On her way back she ends up staying awhile with her friend Clara Rose. Is there any way Clara Rose and her husband Obie can help Jacob and Tess? Can Jacob and Tess find the love they once had at the beginning of their marriage?
I definitely recommend checking out this collection of beautifully written novellas. You will feel like you are right there with the characters is lovely Wells Landing-a most pleasant place to be!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the author and have given my honest opinion.
811 reviews13 followers
October 31, 2017
Amy Lillard has put three of her best stories in one book for all to enjoy. Her characters center around a quilting circle in one Amish community. These circles provide many Amish women the chance to get together and bond. To show support for their fellow neighbors. I love how these stories not only tell one quilters story but also follow the lives of others we have met. Amy Lillard brings a sense of love to this circle. Her characters are real and relatable.
More Than A Friendship tells the story of Clara Yutzy. She is the youngest of the quilters and planning her wedding to the perfect guy or so she thinks. Her long time pal Obie has other ideas. Will he convince Clara that they can have More Than a Friendship? This is a story of trusting ones choice even as we second guess ourselves. And just maybe the correct answer has been standing in front of us all the time.

More Than a Promise is the sad tale of Mariana MIller. She prayed for years for children to bless she and her husband with children. Recently widowed, she feared her dream would never be realized. By the grace of God she finds that she is pregnant to her late husband with twins. When complications arise, she finds herself on bed rest. Never fear the Quilting Circle vows to help and take care of her. However, it is her late husband's business partner, Reuben, who gives her the most help and friendship. Will she come to be able to love and trust again so soon after her husband's death? This story embraces the idea that sometimes we have to just trust that the Lord knows best.

Finally More than a Marriage. Tess and Jacob recently relocated to Wells Landing. Tess loves her husband but feels lonely because he spends more time with his cell phone and work then with her. She longs for the love and teamwork that she sees in her friends marriages. When Jacob decides to sell the one thing Tess finds comfort in, Tess feels like she needs to stand up and be heard. When her decision to move back to her family confuses Jacob, Tess finally asks for help. Will Jacob come to understand that he is about to lose the best thing that has ever happened to him? Or will he let Tess slip away? Sometimes in life our choices lead us on paths we may not have realized we were on.
Profile Image for Lorraine.
158 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2017
Amy Lillard compiles three stories of friendship, love, doubt, forgiveness, and seeking God’s will into one book.

More Than Friendship is the story of young Clara Rose Yutzy. Clara Rose is part of a quilting circle in her community of Wells Landing. She is just weeks away from marrying Thomas Lapp but did she really love Thomas or did she love the idea of being married? When questioned about marrying Thomas, her answer was always “he’s the one God sent me”. Thomas was a good man and very understanding of her friendship with Obadiah Brenneman. Clara Rose and Obie had known each other all their lives and were best friends.

More Than a Promise is the story of Mariana Miller, another of the quilting circle ladies. Mariana and her husband of 15 years never had any children despite her constant prayers. Leroy had a brain tumor which eventually caused his death. Shortly before his death, Marianna discovered she was pregnant. After all these years and now that she was widowed! Not just with one baby either but with twins! Thankfully she had her friends from the circle and Leroy’s business partner and best friend Reuben Weisel to call upon.

More Than a Marriage is the story of another of the quilters, Tess Smiley. Tess is the newest member of the group having moved to Wells Landing after her marriage to Jacob not quite three years ago. They moved from Clarita where her parents live to Wells Landing where his parents live. Not being able to afford a farm, Jacob got a job as a roofer until he can save up enough money. He therefore is allowed a cellphone for work. Tess is not only lonely for her parents but she’s also lonely for her husband. If only he could pay as much attention to her as he does his cellphone.

You’ll want to read Clara Rose, Mariana and Tess’s stories. These are really three great stories that capture and keep your attention!

Does Clara Rose marry Thomas? What of her best friend Obie?
How does Mariana manage twins by herself? Is she by herself?
Does Tess leave Jacob to return to her family in Clarita? Does Jacob ever put the cellphone down long enough to pay attention to his wife? Do they work out their differences and save their marriage?

I was given this book by the author and this is my honest review.

Profile Image for Tina.
60 reviews3 followers
January 20, 2018
The Quilting Circle by Amy Lillard is a collection of 3 Novellas that will make you cry tears of laughter and sadness. Come with me, as we head back to Wells Landing, a place I have missed and a place you will be sure to love.

In More Than A Friendship, ClaraRose is set to marry Thomas and can't believe how fast time has gone. Her best friend Obie, just weeks before the wedding, tells her she shouldn’t be marrying Thomas. He won't give her a real reason as to why? ClaraRose is confused and is not sure why her best friend is just now brining this up. She assumes Obie, is just nervous that once she’s married, it will change their friendship. Are these concerns just nerves, or could they stop ClaraRose from plans and dreams to marry?

The second story, More Than A Promise, introduces us to Mariana, whose husband has passed away, and leaves her wondering how’ll she move on and find a way to support herself. She doesn’t have long to dwell on this, as she soon learns that she is expecting. It is during this time her late husband’s business partner, Ruben comes to care for her everyday during lunch. You’ll have to read to see if this friendship shows promise of blossoming into something more.

The last story, More Than A Marriage, starts with Tess who starts to feel disconnected from her husband, and feels that something needs to change for her marriage to feel right again. The problem with the marriage is much bigger than Tess has yet to realize. Her disconnect from her husband only grows more when she starts comparing her marriage to her friends. Find out what happens with Tess and Jacob’s marriage, and if they will find a way to reconnect or continue on with their current state.

Amy Lillard, thank you for taking me back to Wells Landing. The stories here never disappoint in their beauty and ability to pull on my heart. The lives of the characters you depict always have me reflecting on my own. I hope my next visit to Wells Landing isn’t too far away, I can’t wait to get back there!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my review which I have given above.
Profile Image for Amy.
134 reviews
January 16, 2018
In More Than a Friendship we see what happens when we rush and not think about what we really need in our lives. Clara Rose has two people vying for her heart. Will she be able to trust and not second guess her emotions? Will Obie be able to win her heart?

I really liked Obie in this story and his persistence in this story. Amy Lillard has a way of really bringing her characters to life.

In More Than a Promise Mariana is pregnant, with twins! Newly widowed and needing space to grieve she faints and needs to go on bedrest. I loved the way the community rallied around her while she was going through this difficult time.

Rueben, another great character, was so thoughtful and kind. His generous nature and kind acts tugged at my heart.

In More Than a Marriage Tess finds herself trying to compete for her husband Jacob's affection with a smartphone! She feels ignored and unhappy. Jacob is frustrated that his wife wants to keep pesky goats and he can't provide for her in the way he feels that an Amish man should. This story delves into the heart of a marriage and you find yourself wondering if Tess and Jacob can ever find common ground.

Amy Lillard gives us a glimpse into a world that isn't all buggy rides and picnics. She draws you in with characters that have beautiful real life flaws and you find yourself rooting for them. With the help of caring neighbors will Tess and Jacob find their way back to each other? Or will they hang on to their pride and keep comparing what others have to what they have?

This was a really great series and I'm so glad that they all are in one place for you to enjoy. So come home to one of my favorite places and pick up your copy today. Welcome to Wells Landing, where there is a story on every corner and a place you will enjoy visiting every time. Happy Reading.
Profile Image for Diana Montgomery.
844 reviews8 followers
November 11, 2017

What a wonderful book. It is put together with 3 novellas Amy wrote for Wells Landing Romance. They are so well written and just loved the characters. Amy's books are always a sweet romance and inspirational.

More Than a Friendship
Clara has always been friends with Obidiah. Then she is now going to marry someone and Obie is determined she should not marry him but that God has told him he is to marry her. Obie needs to find a way to show her just how much he really does love her. Can he stop this wedding?

More Than a Promise
I so felt for Mariana. She has been married 15 years and no baby but all her friends around her are having children or adopting. Her husband has passed away and she finds she is with child. But not just one God has blessed her with twins. What is she going to do? How can she care for them with no husband no income to support them? Her community is trying to help her some but one person is really doing all he can to help up to the point of proposing marriage to her. What will Mariana do?

More Than a Marriage

Poor Tess she loves her husband very much, but she always feels so alone even when he is home he isn't paying attention to her. Like today with English he is busy on his cell phone. What could he be doing on it all the time. He tells her it is business. She wants a family. But are not getting along to well. He is tired of renting a place to live he wants a place of his own. Both seem to be going in different directions. Tess really has no one she has moved away from her family. Can they find a way back to each other before it is to late?
Profile Image for Kathryn at Book Ink Reivews.
140 reviews11 followers
October 25, 2017
A copy of this review can be found at Book Ink Reviews.

Thank you to NetGalley, Amy Lillard, and Kensington Books for this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Quilting Circle introduces us to three unique short stories about women who are very much like the rest of us in different stages of life. A young woman falling in love the first time, a pregnant widow finding love in love with her late husband's best friend, and a young married couple on the brink of brokenness as they learn to court and communicate again will wrap you in a warm sweater as you sit down to read this fall.

I can't say enough nice things about Lillard's collection of short stories. I needed this in a way I didn't even realize. I needed to connect to women that were in the same walks of life as me, and I needed to read something sweet and innocent after the crazy of the world. I knew that an Amish romance would at least fulfill sweet and innocent reading, but I didn't realize that I would have so much in common with the three women. That is really where The Quilting Circle shines. No matter your religious opinions or if you're only fascinated by the Amish, there is a kinship here that cannot be denied. The stories are told simply and wrap up with the perfect little bow. No complicated plots, no loose ends, and certainly no unhappy endings. But that's okay. Sometimes we just need happy.
Profile Image for JoAnne.
3,148 reviews32 followers
October 29, 2017
Another enjoyable read by Amy Lillard, one of my favorite authors. Three stories that return us to Wells Landing, Oklahoma and all things Amish. Quick reads that had my emotions involved - both laughter and tears along with sadness, heartache, happiness and love. As always nice sweet reads with a core of family, friends, their Church and love. Who could ask for anything more?

All three stories were interrelated and involved us in the community of Wells Landing that I've grown to love. Such different stories all ending in happily-ever-afters that didn't seem possible with the turmoil and strife going on in their lives. Often it was only one-sided of who was in despair and why. Did the other even get their feelings of sorrow or just continue on with their lives? Were they uncaring or just caught up too much in their own side of things?

All the stories flowed beautifully with well developed plots and characters. I had to dig deep to get to know them and also to understand where they were coming from and why they acted the way they did. There was nice closure to each story and I'm hoping to return to Wells Landing again to catch up on all the community members lives and see what they're up to, if their dreams have come true and if their lives have taken detours or ended up as they planned.

If you haven't given Lillard's books a try you really should. You won't be disappointed if you like this genre of books.
Profile Image for Readsandeats.
1,081 reviews24 followers
November 17, 2017
The Quilting Circle by Amy Lillard.
This book contains three short stories all set in the same Amish community.
The first story concerns Clara, who is engaged to Thomas and looking forward to marrying him. Her friend Obie starts acting strangely and she is becoming upset by this. She begins to question her friendship and her engagement.
This is a well written story with lovely characters who you believe in and want the best for.

The second story concerns Marianna. Her husband has just died and she has always wanted children. She faces many challenges in widowhood and her friends all rally round to help. Will Marianna ever become a Mum and will she discover that friendship may turn to love?
It was lovely to be back in this Amish community. Not only did you get this story but you caught up with the other characters from the previous book. Such a great thing to keep the continuity going.

The last book is about Tess. She has married Jacob and moved to this community because his parents are nearby. This means however that she is a long way from her family and support network. She looks at other people she has come to know and made friends with and sees how they live and how their relationships are. She begins to question if she has made the right decision.
Again you get not only this story but you catch up with the other characters you have met before.
I would recommend this book and will read more books by this author in the future.
Profile Image for Gail Hollingsworth.
1,003 reviews52 followers
November 1, 2017
A group of Amish women of all ages meet year round to make quilts for charity. They quilt, share problems and joys, and of course eat.
The youngest of the group, Clara Rose, is planning her wedding. She's known her groom for a long time but why does her best friend Obie, tell her not to marry him but doesn't give a reason?
Newly widowed Mariana Miller has just discovered she is pregnant with her husband's babies, twins no less! She is put on bed rest and worries about how she is going to support herself much less two babies.
Tess Smiley is new to the community. Newly married her husband moves her away from her family to be near his family. He is so absorbed with his job and the cell phone connected to his job that he ignores his wife. The last straw for her is when he threatens to sell her beloved goats.
I enjoyed reading about these characters in this community. They were real with real problems. No perfect Amish life was portrayed. Seeing them work through their problems and turn to God for help was refreshing. Even though there were three novellas in one book, I came to care about the characters and even wonder about them now. I wouldn't mind a bit if they showed up again in another book or books by Amy Lillard.
I was given an ARC of this novel from the author/publisher but was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise.
Profile Image for Joanne.
149 reviews
November 14, 2017
Book In One Hand Coffee In Another
The Quilting Circle is about a group of Amish women from Wells Landing, who come together in and bond while quilting. They support each other through the good and bad times. The quilting Circle consists of three short novellas about the women of this quilting circle. There are stories of friendship, romance and faith.
This book is one that you will enjoy and will not want to put down, it is so well written and you just want more. I truly enjoyed reading these three novellas, Amy Lillard has done it again!
I would highly recommend this book.
More Than Friendship
Clara Rose Yutzy and Obiaiah "Obie" Brenneman are best of friends. Obie tells Clara Rose that he does not feel good about her upcoming marriage to Thomas Lapp. Will she listen to Obie? Or will she follow her heart?
More Than a Promise
Mariana Miller has just found out the she is pregnant with twins. Her husband has just recently passed away. Can Mariana cope with having and raising twins on her own?
More Than a Marriage
Tess Smiley and Jacob are not happy in their marriage and are questioning their relationship. Can they find a resolution their problems? Can their marriage survive?
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Books for a copy in exchange for an open and honest review.
Profile Image for Linda.
455 reviews23 followers
October 29, 2017
Communication is the key to any relationship and especially so in a marriage. The Amish are not immune to this problem. In this series of novellas set in Wells Landing, Oklahoma there are all kinds of miscommunication going on. Will Clara Rose Yutzy and best friend, Obadiah Brenneman find more than a friendship? Will Marianna Miller and Reuben Weisel realize more than a promise? Will Tess and Jacob Smiley discover more than a marriage? Each novella is aptly named, and you will find yourself drawn into each story. The common thread is a group of friends that enjoy creating quilts to donate to the Clarita School Auction as well as supporting each other through difficult times. Author Amy Lillard writes endearing stories that will make you smile with an occasional giggle as well as the desire to thump a few heads! It’s like going home to Wells Landing and getting an update on ‘friends’ you’ve met from other books in the series. Filled with inspiration, lovable relatable characters, and romance you will find these novellas delightful.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Carol.
733 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2017
The Quilting Circle is a wonderful three novella . How can I put it into words? These three, each one was incredible. Each one was incredible, each one is intertwined – well not intertwined per se but they do associate with the Quilting Circle which include the prior characters – savvy? One story is about unrequited love who isn't the fiancé but the best friend. Will it be the love that will be returned or scorned by getting married to the fiancé? The second is about keeping a dying wish. Will that wish be into turning true love and if it does will it be trusted or will he just believe he is just keeping the dying promise? The third and final one is about unrequited love in a marriage. He doesn't feel he loves him. He doesn't feel he loves her and they don't communicate . She wants to leave him but friends intervene . Will they work it out ? ? The stories are phenomenal. Worth the read . I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Anna Marie.
1,389 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2023
Three stories continuing the saga of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, and the Amish that live there.

In the first, Clara is torn between a love of her best friend Obadiah Brenneman or the love of marriage and a fiancé she can't find fault with and loves in a more romantic way.

In the second story, Mariana's husband dies, leaving her 40 and unexpectedly pregnant with twins. When his business partner steps in to help, Mariana discovers two things: first, that he claims he has secretly loved her for years, and second, that her husband made him promise to take care of her. So... which is the reason he's proposed marriage? And does obligation trump feelings?

In the third story, Tess is in a marriage that feels cold to her. She's lost the spark, doesn't feel loved, and when looking at how happy her friends are in their young marriages, she feels trapped. But is it something that Jacob has done, or a discontent that she needs to deal with in herself.

The first was sort of an immature read (but then, Clara is very young). The second was a lovely story that I really very much enjoyed, but Tess' story seemed to run against what we're told about her character, and I don't feel like her qualms were unjustified. He wouldn't take her home to see her parents. He was nose-deep in Facebook all of the time. He was short-tempered and didn't pay attention to her.
Profile Image for Barbara Thompson.
461 reviews13 followers
October 31, 2017
The Quilting Circle is three novellas bringing different circumstances to the forefront but God is there and also puts people in place to help.

In the first novella, some people cannot see what's in front of them has been the best all along. The author wrote this great novella in bringing the truth to this character before it was too late.

The second novella touched my heart showing tragedy happening, but God comes to the characters and gives back so much more happiness.

The author wrote about a sensitive subject and did a fantastic job in this third novella. When a person is in a troublesome situation, sometimes you need help from someone else who can help and guide you.

All the novellas are fabulous and have marvelous purposes that can speak to many people. I was hooked on this book from the beginning. Author Amy Lillard wrote a magnificent book that can help people today. I highly recommend reading "The Quilting Circle" .

I received a complimentary copy from the author. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
Profile Image for Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs.
1,959 reviews38 followers
October 31, 2017
A collection of three novellas centered around three women in a quilting circle. The stories focus on love, family and learning what makes you happy.

In More than Friendship, Clara Rose is set to marry Thomas until her best friend, Obie, throws a snag into the plans. Will Clara Rose be able to figure out where her heart belongs before it is too late?

In More than a Promise, Mariana learns she is pregnant soon after she buries her husband. She turns to her husband’s best friend, Reuben, in her time of need. Will they find love together?

In More than Marriage, Tess and Jacob have hit a rough patch. There is more arguing than sweet words of love. Will Tess leave Jacob or will she see a way to find the love in her marriage?

I enjoyed these novellas and found them short enough to read the entire book in under 24 hours. The strangest thing for me was their use of tractors to get around. That was a first. These novellas have made me curious about the Amish in Oklahoma.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review in my own words.
293 reviews1 follower
October 27, 2017
I love that all three of these wonderful stories are now combined into one book! I have already read two of the books so it was a pleasure to read More than a Promise. Amy Lillard takes us back again to Quilting bee of Wells Landing in More Than a Promise. The focus in this book is on Mariana and I grew to love reading about her. Page after page it drew me into her life and situation.

She was blessed when the quilting bee heard about her need and rallied around her. Don't get me wrong, she was strong but we all need help at different times in our lives.

Reuben comes in to the story and muddles the waters with his helpful nature. I admired him for his hard work and never give up attitude.

The situation and the suspense of the romance made this a great read!

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Profile Image for Kristi.
629 reviews9 followers
November 30, 2017
While not a big fan of novellas I enjoyed all three of these stories from Amy Lillard. It was nice revisiting the town of Wells Landing and getting to spend time with the people there. These three stories were nice, easy reads.

Sometimes novellas can seem rushed or unfinished but not these. All three of these stories were well- written and told a complete story that left me feeling satisfied. My favorite novella told the story of Tess and Jonah, a married couple of three years. Their marriage is going through a tough spell because of a lack of communication. I found it easy to understand each of the characters in the story. I liked them and wanted them to be able to work through their issues.

Fans of Amish fiction and Amy Lillard are guaranteed to love this book. This would be a great way to introduce readers to the genre or Amy. Set aside a little time to read these three novellas. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Nancy Horton.
18 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2019
this is an enjoyable book. I liked how the story progressed on through each short story. Each story ended in a very postive way. Clara Rose could no longer say that she didn't love Odibiah more than a best friend. Thomas loved clara Rose so much that he got up at the wedding service to announce that there would be no wedding but for the guests to stay and eat the food prepared. Mariana and Reuben found out that they loved each other and would raise her twins girls together. Tess & Jacob Simely needed to communicate to each other more. So glad that Tess's friend Clara Rose wanted to help get Tess & Jacob's marriage back on track. Verna was a good friend to all the ladies in the Quilting group.
Profile Image for Pamela Pavkov.
1,263 reviews25 followers
April 22, 2020
The Quilting Circle is a wonderful book written by Amy Lillard in her Wells Landing series. This book is confused of three individual novellas. Each novella tells a story of love, faith, family, and forgiveness. The characters are all likeable and have just the right personalities to tell each story. The author has done an amazing job with each individual story.

I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful book that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Amy Lillard on releasing another inspiring book for her readers enjoyment.
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