Beneath the Summer Sun

Every Amish Season #2

by Kelly Irvin

Jennie Troyer knows it’s time to remarry, and with two men pursuing her, she doesn’t have to look far. But after the pain she’s experienced, can she open her heart to love?


It’s been four years since Jennie’s husband died in a farming accident. Long enough that the elders in her Amish community think it’s time to shed her grief and remarry for the sake of her seven children. What they don’t know is it isn’t grief that’s holding her back, but rather a fear of a repeat of her abusive marriage.


Paul Graber has known--and loved--Jennie since they were children, and he’d hoped to court her when they were teenagers. But when he was fourteen, Paul’s father died suddenly in his arms. Ever since he’s been afraid of the searing pain of loss that comes from opening himself up to love. Now Jennie’s free again and he’s fighting to have the courage not to lose her a second time.


Nathan Walker is a Mennonite book salesman who makes it a point to stop by Jennie’s farm as often as he can. He’s grown to care for her, but he knows he has no right to court her unless he resolves his own struggle with his faith. He will have to change everything about his life in order to join the Jamesport Amish community. But would he be embracing a new life or running from his old?


The path isn’t clear for any of them. These three people, drawn together by circumstances and God’s plan, must come to grips with their pasts in order to discern God’s plan for their futures and find peace beneath the summer sun.

Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian Romance

366 pages, Paperback

Published January 16, 2018

About the author

Best-selling author Kelly Irvin splits her writing time between Amish romances and romantic suspense. Her latest release is Trust Me (2/8/22), a romantic suspense novel set in San Antonio's historic art district. It explores broken trust and whether trust can ever be restored. Publishers Weekly called it a "whirlwind romantic thriller" and "an emotional rollercoaster."

Her latest Amish romance is Love's Dwelling, the first book in the Amish Blessings series, which released in July 2021. The series takes place in Yoder and Haven, Kansas, and looks at adoption among the Amish. The series follows her Amish romance series, Amish of Sky Country includes Mountains of Grace, followed by The Long Bridge Home, and Peace in the Valley. The series explores Amish communities in northwest Montana and how they are impacted by wildfires.

Other romantic suspense novels include Her Every Move, which Publishers Weekly called gripping suspense and said, "loving descriptions of San Antonio’s attractions enhance the well-paced plot."

The publication called Closer Than She Knows a "brisk, smoothly written, thriller."

Kelly's Every Amish Season series includes Upon A Spring Breeze, Beneath the Summer Sun, Through the Autumn Air, and With Winter's First Frost from Zondervan/HarperCollins Christian Publishing. This follows the Amish of Bee County series, The Saddle Maker's Son, released in June 2016. It is an ECPA bestseller. It follows The Bishop's Son, and the critically acclaimed bestseller, The Beekeeper's Son, which earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly. The reviewer called it "a beautifully woven masterpiece." The Beekeeper's Son was a finalist in the romance category of the 2016 ACFW Carol Awards Contest.

Kelly is also the author of the Bliss Creek Amish series and the New Amish Amish series. The first series includes To Love and To Cherish, A Heart Made New, and Love’s Journey Home, published by Harvest House. The New Hope Amish series includes Love Still Stands, followed by Love Redeemed, which was an ACFW Carol Award finalist, and A Plain Love Song.

Kelly has also penned two other romantic suspense novels, A Deadly Wilderness and No Child of Mine..

The Kansas native is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and ACFW's San Antonio local chapter Alamo City Christian Fiction Writers.

A graduate of the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism, Kelly has been writing nonfiction professionally for thirty years. She studied for three semesters at the University of Costa Rica, learning the Spanish language. As a journalist, she worked six years in the border towns of Laredo and El Paso.

She worked in public relations for the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department for 22 years before retiring earlier this year. Kelly has been married to photographer Tim Irvin for twenty-eight years. They have two young adult children and have three grandchildren. In her spare time, she likes to write short stories, read books by her favorite authors, and looks forward to visits with her grandchildren.

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all carry secrets with us some a lot worse than others. Jennie has been a widow for 4 years and has seven children. Her oldest was only 10 when his father died but he is a smart boy and knows how his father mentally and physically abused his mother even though she tried to hide it. Amish marriages are for life though and she couldn't divorce him to get out of it. Her oldest son and Jennie are both glad he has passed away even though she'll never admit it or bad mouth him to her children.
Her abuse has her flinching at men's raised voices or a gentle touch on the arm. People in the community talk and know something was wrong in her marriage but not what it is.
Two men, very different men are attracted to her and she wants to love again but is afraid to since her husband was nice to her before their marriage. He hid what he was truly like from her until after the vows. Her flashbacks of his behavior steers her clear of starting another romantic relationship.
One man who vies for her attention is Amish the other is not. Can the ice in her heart begin to thaw? She will do anything to protect her brood and if it means not having another man in her life that's the way it'll be. Her oldest acts up,leaving the house,being out all night,disrespectful behavior. How can she reach him when he feels guilty for the way his father treated her? He wanted to protect her from his father but he was just a 10 year old boy. Even though this story does contain an abusive relationship I hope anyone in one will get the help they need and be encouraged to do so even more after reading this book. The National Domestic Violence Hotline, available 24/7 1-800-799-7233 as listed in this book.
Pub Date 16 Jan 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and Zondervan Fiction for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed book number two of An Every Amish Season series.

I liked Jeannie, Nathan, and Leo's story. I could not wait to see what Gods plan for Jeannie's life was.

A widow with a house full of kids, she needed a helpmate but which one was the one for her?

You are going to love the out come of this one.

Again Kelly does not disappoint, I gladly gave this book 4 stars and I recommend it.

The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is such a good addition to the Every Amish Season series! The author handles the very difficult topic of spousal abuse and the after effects of that kind of treatment. Jennie Troyer had a lot of fear, doubt, and guilt to overcome and this story walks with her on the journey to healing and trusting again.

There were two men vying for Jennie’s attention and hoping for her love. I definitely had a favorite of the two men and felt that only he would be capable of the patience needed to love Jennie while she figured things out. I also liked the way he related to her children. Both men were kind and both men were good to her children, but I enjoyed watching Jennie realize who really had her heart.

Beneath the Summer Sun is the second book in the series, however, it can be read as a stand alone novel.

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Tiffany Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

**FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW.**

Four years have passed since Jennie Troyer’s husband, Atlee, died in a farming accident, leaving her to raise their seven children on her own. Long enough that the elders in her Amish community feel that it’s time for her to remarry, for the sake of her children. What they don’t know is that it isn’t grief that’s holding Jennie back, but the fear of finding herself in another abusive marriage. Now that there’s talk about the possibility of her remarrying, she won’t have to look far to find someone, as there are two very different men pursuing her. Leo Graber has known and loved Jennie since they were children and he had originally planned to court her when they were teenagers. But, when he was fourteen, his father died suddenly, in his arms. Ever since then he’s been far too afraid of the devastating pain that comes from losing a loved one to even think about opening himself up to love someone. Now, Jennie is available again and he’s fighting to have enough courage to not lose her again for the second time. Nathan Walker is a Mennonite traveling book salesman who makes a point of visiting Jennie as often as he can manage. He has grown to care for her but knows that he has no right to court her until he gets his struggles with his faith taken care of. In order to even have a chance with her, he will have to change almost everything about his life and join the Jamesport Amish community. If he does this, is he embracing a new life or running from his former life? Can Jennie put aside her fears and trust that she can trust the one God has chosen for her? Can all of them put aside past hurts and embrace God’s plans for them?

I really enjoyed reading this sweet story and getting another visit with some of my favorite characters from “Upon a Spring Breeze” while getting to know and love Jennie, her children, Leo, and Nathan. I found myself relating to Jennie and her fear of putting her trust in another man, and that fear that he will hurt her again and thinking that it might be better just stay alone rather than take the risk. Leo was such a wonderful character, right from the beginning and my heart really went out to him. My heart also went out to Nathan for most of the book but at the end, I found myself really having some hard feelings concerning him. This story was very well written and one of the main themes was that even when we don’t understand why something has happened or why we’re experiencing something, we can always trust in Gods plans for us, along with the power of forgiveness. There really are some wonderful themes or lessons that really stood out for me. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book so I can see what happens next to this sweet family and I genuinely hope that we find out what happens to Nathan and his journey, as well.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even the Amish have real problems, family issues, secrets. This story dealt with a very serious issue that is often hidden from others. Jennie is an Amish widow with seven children. She had been physically and emotionally abused by her deceased husband Atlee, who also harshly abused their children. She felt guilty for feeling relieved that he died. Because he treated her well before they married and changed right after, she has a hard time trusting any man. But with so many children to care for she also struggles with finances. Trusting God to lead her in His will for her life is very difficult. She finds two men vying for her attention but is untrusting of either.
The characters were so real to me. I hurt for Jennie as she recalled some of her interactions with Atlee. I cried more, rejoiced some, held my breath a time or two, and almost found myself praying for her. Now that's a great portrayal of a character! Follow along with Jennie and her story to see what her future holds and where God leads her. I'm sure it will draw you in as it did me.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher through the Fiction Guild but was not required to write a review.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun by Kelly Irvin is the second installment in An Every Amish Season series. Jennie Troyer is a widow with seven children in Jamesport, Missouri. It has been four years since her husband, Atlee passed away, and Jennie is content to live without a spouse. Jennie never told a soul about the type of husband Atlee was and how she can still hear his voice in her head belittling her. Leo Graber has been in love with Jennie since they were young. His guilt over his father’s death has prevented him from pursuing a relationship with Jennie or living a happy, fulfilling life. Nathan Walker is a Mennonite traveling book salesman who has fallen for Jennie. He visits her farm whenever he is in the area and enjoys spending time with Jennie and the children. Nathan has been unable to settle down in one place because of resentment towards his parents for their mission work and leaving him behind when he was younger. He is contemplating becoming Amish to be with Jennie. Matthew Troyer, Jennie’s oldest son, has been moody, rude, sneaking out of the house at night and refuses to discuss what is troubling him with Jennie. What will it take for the four of them (Jennie, Leo, Nathan, and Matthew) to resolve their issues and move forward with their lives?

While Beneath the Summer Sun is the second book in the series, it can be read alone. You need not have read Upon a Spring Breeze which involves different characters (but in the same community). Beneath the Summer Sun is well-written and engaging. I appreciate this author’s writing style (makes for an easy and enjoyable novel). I was drawn in right away and my attention was held until the end of the book. The story contains lovely characters that are nicely constructed and develop over the course of the book. They are realistic and relatable as well as the issues that they are experiencing. I like how Ms. Irvin handled the subject of domestic abuse (physical and mental). It is an issue that is generally not addressed in Amish novels and the author shows that abuse is not limited to Englischers (as we are called). I am grateful that the author does not paint the Amish in a picture-perfect world. The author has a way of incorporating Christian values into the book (light touch). It flows nicely with the story and does not come across as preachy. Some of the issues that are addressed are faith, following God’s path for your life, power of prayer, scripture, trust, forgiveness (of oneself and others), love, grace and guilt. Beneath the Summer Sun is a captivating book that will stay with you long after you finish it. I am eager to read the next book in An Every Amish Season series which is Through the Autumn Air. We get Mary Katherine Ropp’s story who is in Beneath the Summer Sun.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres. However, sometimes I feel like the genre becomes a bit stale or cookie cutter. That's why I find books like Beneath the Summer Sun refreshing. This book has complex characters with real problems. I was entranced in the story from the first page and found myself reading the entire book over the weekend.

There are three main characters in this story and each one has thier own story. They share a common bond of trying to let go of the past and moving forward. Jennie was so easy to like and have sympathy for. A widow of four years she is trying to raise seven children on her own. All under the watchful eye of the church leaders. Nathan is a Beachy Amish Mennonite book salesman who is tired of traveling around in his minivan named Bunny and wants to settle down and perhaps join the Amish faith. Leo Graber is an Amish carpenter who says very little. At first it might seem like he is shy but as the reader gets to know him it is revealed that shyness is not is problem but he suffers from guilt. There are several secondary characters including the seven children and Jennie's friends and community members. I didn't have any trouble keeping the characters straight in my mind while reading and I credit that to the personalities the author gave them. It was like meeting a group of people and getting to know them better.

I like Kelly Irvin's writing style. She has a way of pulling the reader into the story. From the first sentence of the book I felt like I was part of the story. She also writes about a serious topic in this book and does it in a way that provides enough detail to the story without being too much.

While this book is part of a series it isn't necessary to read the previous book first. This book reads fine as a standalone. This book would be a great introduction into the genre or Kelly Irvin books. This is a book that I highly recommend.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refreshingly different from the same-old Amish fiction plots, with compelling characters. There is usually a clear reader's choice when it comes to a love triangle but in this case both men were equal contenders. More review to come...

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the second in a series of four called Every Amish Season. Although I think it could be read as a standalone, there is a lot of backstory that will make more sense if you read them in order.

I really identified with the main character in this book, Jennie Troyer. She had been in an abusive marriage (yes, they do exist among the Amish), but wouldn't leave because of her vows. When her husband is killed in a freak accident, she suffers guilt because of the relief she feels at his death. Moreover, she is continually overwhelmed by the memories of the abuse and the after effects of being the target of physical, mental, verbal, and emotional abuse. Four years later, now a widow with seven children, she is doggedly putting one foot in front of the other, trying to survive and keep her household fed.

While she has never told anyone about the abuse, some of those close to her have guessed that all was not right. In fact, there are two men who would love to get close enough to really help her in her struggles. One is Nathan, a Mennonite book salesman who comes by periodically, but is willing to do what is necessary to become Amish so that he can marry her. The other is Leo Graber, the man she wanted to marry, but who was too shy to ask. Now he is gathering his courage for another attempt. But Jennie is fearful of any new relationship, and definitely doesn't trust men. What if another husband should turn out like the first one? He was wonderful until they married, and she is afraid it will happen again.

One thing I appreciate about Kelly Irvin's novels is that she doesn't take the easy way out. Her characters are plain and earthy; they are very real and relatable. Dilemmas are not solved right away or even the first or second time remedies are offered. One of the themes in this novel is refinement through the fire of affliction. Recommended for fans of Amish fiction who want the deeper look into spiritual lives.

[January · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun by Kelly Irvin
Every Amish Season #2
369-page Paperback story ends on 357

Genre: Christian Romance, Amish Fiction,

Featuring: Praise, Author's Bibliography, Epigraph, Deutsch Vocabulary List, Character List, Jamesport, Missouri; Widows, Second Chance Trope, Multiple POVs, Guilt, Abuse Recovery, Trust Issues, Mennischt, Not Looking Trope, Triangle, Flashbacks of Spousal Abuse, Problem Child, Fear, Shops, Discussion Questions, Domestic Violence Resources, Advertisements for the Every Amish Season series and the Amish of Bee County series

Rating as a movie: PG-13


Authors and books mentioned: Shelley Shepard Gray, Beth Wiseman, Amy Clipston, Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder; Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🪦☀️

My thoughts: 📖 Page 119 of 357/369 FIFTEEN - Yes! This is exactly what I hoped for matches for the other widows. Unfortunately, they also have the same triangle trope as the last book between an old friend and an outsider. I still like this plot and story more than the previous book.

This was a surprising story. I wasn't expecting it to take the direction it did. It was quite good. I'm definitely going to be continuing this series, especially after that ending.

Recommend to others: Yes. This was an interesting take on these situations.

Every Amish Season
1. Upon a Spring Breeze (2017)
2. Beneath the Summer Sun (2018)
3. Through the Autumn Air (2018)
4. With Winter's First Frost (2019)

[⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm · Rating 2 out of 5]

More of the same with this series, though I forced myself to get through it faster this time around, just so I could get to the ARC. I liked that the author addressed another tough topic in the Amish community, and how it affected the entire family. However, I felt that the love triangle angle was a bit unnecessary, and it ultimately dragged the story out longer than it needed to be. I also enjoyed the little updates we got on the couple from the first book in the series! Ultimately, though, I see the series starting to go downhill for me.

[Katherine Bartlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

If ever a book could convey such much emotion, it would be this one. I cried through this book and was so happy to see Jennie find love and trust again. This book brought out emotions and feeling for the characters like they were real. It was such an amazing read.

[Debi Stout · Rating 4 out of 5]

You will enjoy Beneath the Summer Sun without reading the first book, as it does serve as a stand alone. The three complex main characters are Jennie Troyer, Leo Graber, and Nathan Walker. All are facing problems of letting go of their past so that they can move forward with their lives.

Jennie carries a secret about her husband, Atlee. The Amish do not divorce as they marry for life, so she told no one about her husband’s mental and physical abuse. Jennie’s husband died from a farming accident four years ago and left her with 7 children to raise on her own under the eyes of the church leaders.

Jennie's son, Matthew was ten years old when Atlee died. He knew of the abuse his mother suffered at the hands of his father, and many times he was taken to the shed by his father for beatings.  In truth, both Jennie and her son were relieved that Atlee had died.  The Community knew something was wrong in her marriage, but not what it was. Jennie was a very likeable person and many had sympathy for her.

When Jennie began getting used to life without a husband, two different men took interest in her, and Jennie knew that it was time to remarry. Matthew started sneaking out at night and became moody and rude, but he refused to tell Jennie what was bothering him. 

Both men who profess to love Jennie had good hearts. First, there is Jennie's childhood friend Amish, Leo Graber, who had been in love with Jennie from the time they were young and attending the same church. He felt so guilty over his father’s death that it prevented him from any social activities. He worked alone building furniture and did not have a happy life.

Next, there was Mennonite, Nathan Walker, who was a traveling salesman unable to settle down in one place because he resented that his parents left him behind with relatives while they did mission work in other countries. He was seriously thinking of becoming Amish to be with Jennie. He wanted to settle down with Jennie in her hometown of Jamesport, Missouri.

Will Jennie, Leo, Nathan, and Matthew be able to put the past behind them? Who will Jennie choose to love and care for her children? Will she able to trust another man? Atlee was sweet until they spoke their vows, can she believe the sweet words of either man?  Three hearts try to discern God’s plan for the future—and find peace beneath the summer sun.

Domestic abuse is addressed in this story with showing that faith, trust, forgiveness of yourself, and through the power of prayer we are able to overcome our past and move forward to a healthy, happy life. This is a story that will stay with me for a long time.  Thank you Kelly Irvin for a wonderful story and I am looking forward to reading the third book in An Every Amish Season series, which is due out in August of this year, entitled Through the Autumn Air.

I received a paperback copy of this book without cost from the publisher through The Fiction Guild, a Thomas Nelson/Zondervan Elite Reader book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own, or in this case, my mom's.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun is the second book written by Kelly Irvin in her An Every Amish Season series. I enjoyed this book immensely and I highly recommend it to others. The characters are amazing and I felt like they were old friends.

The author takes us back to Jamesport once again to read the story of Jennie Troyer. Jennie has been a widow for four years and is trying to be mother and father to her seven kinner. The oldest, Mathew, who has witnessed alot in his parents marriage starts sneeking out at night and hanging out with older kids. Jennie keeps trying to decide if she is ready to reach out for a second chance at love but meMories keep flooding back causing her to reject the idea. Leo a long time friend seems to in the right place when Jennie as youngest, Francis, needs rescuing. A relationship forms between the two that I found very enduring. With two men trying to win the attention of Jennie who will she choose?

I loved the storyline the author chose to tell this story. This is a very serious matter for an author to use but she did it with style and grace. It was easy to bond with the characters of this book. The story was so interesting it kept me turning pages to see what would happen next.

I was given an advanced complimentary eBook copy from Netgalley and Kelly Irvin to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable review. All opinions and statements expressed are strictly my own. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of an outstanding story that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Kelly Irvin on delivering another amazing story for her readers to enjoy. I will be anticipating the next book to be released in this series to continue the story on.

[Christa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun is a beautifully written story about second chances. This is the second novel in An Every Amish Season series by Kelly Irvin.
Many in the Amish community did not realize the life Jennie Troyer had with her husband. Even though he passed away four years ago, she still has flashbacks of those terrible days. She does have seven beautiful children who have gotten her through those hard times. She has caught the attention of two men, Nathan, a traveling Mennonite book salesman and Leo, an Amish man. Would she risk letting go of her faith to pursue a relationship with Nathan? What of Leo? He has had his fair share of pain and hurt in the past and has a hard time opening up to people. What future does God have in store for her? Is it with either of them?
Kelly Irvin is an amazing author and I always enjoy reading the books she writes. When you start reading Beneath the Summer Sun you will feel like you are right there with the characters in beautiful Jamesport, Missouri. The characters experience circumstances that we can all relate to including fear, hurt, faith, hope and love. Once you start reading this book, you won't want to put it down! I definitely recommend picking up a copy of this book for yourself and a friend, it would make the perfect gift!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the publisher and have given my honest opinion.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the reasons I love reading books by this author is because with a few words I am swep away to another place. Her vivid description of the setting takes my breath away. She is an excellent writer and I fall in love with the characters each time. I loved the story and wanted to sit down with Jennie and hold her hand. She had kept a dark secret for many years. Not every marriage is perfect but Jennie’s was like living a nightmare. Her fear of doing something wrong kept her on egg shells. Now that she has seven children to raise on her own, what will she do? Can she continue to scrape by, or will she follow what the church thinks she needs to do?

One of the things I found so fascinating was learning the difference between Anabaptist and Mennonites. There are many things the Mennonites allow, that the Anabaptist don’t. I loved how the author brings Nathan into the story. He is a good man, but I’m not sure he can get Jennie’s attention. They come from different backgrounds and for Jennie she doesn’t want to go against her church. He wants to make roots in the community, but devastating news may change that. What will Nathan decide?

Leo is the kind of man who would make a great husband. He is a good hard working man. He is very quiet and hard to talk to though. Many people have talked to him about his guilt over his father’s death. Leo feels responsible and he will have to lean on God to heal him. I loved the turmoil that Jennie and Leo are going through. They each have guilt that is overwhelming them. For Jennie , will she learn to trust another man, or stay in her own raising her children? Can Leo learn to forgive himself ?

The story is like a walk through the countryside with beautiful things waiting to be explored. It can bring you new adventure and give you a sense of peace while allowing God to heal hearts. I loved this story and wanted it to not end. I loved this quote from the story ,”It’s a sign of overwhelming pride when a man thinks he’s the only one who can do God’s work.”

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

[Yvie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been four years since Jennie’s husband died in a farming accident. Long enough that the elders in her Amish community think it’s time to marry again for the sake of her seven children. What they don’t know is that grief isn’t holding her back from a new relationship. Fear is. A terrible secret in her past keeps her from moving forward. Mennonite book salesman Nathan Walker stops by Jennie’s farm whenever he’s in the area. Despite years of conversation and dinners together, she never seems to relax around him. He knows he should move on, but something about her keeps drawing him back. Meanwhile, Leo Graber nurtures a decades-long love for Jennie, but guilt plagues him—guilt for letting Jennie marry someone else and guilt for his father’s death on a hunting trip many years ago. How could anyone love him again—and how could he ever take a chance to love in return? In this second book in the Every Amish Season series, three hearts try to discern God’s plan for the future—and find peace beneath the summer sun. (First book : Upon a Spring Breeze)

I'd already ready Spring and, after this book, am looking forward to the close of the series in Autumn. We continue to follow the story of Jennie Troyer, who struggles with caring for her seven children alone. She's got a teenager who is being a typical teen...pushing boundaries...as well as younger children who need better supervision; but what's a single (widowed) mom to do? Enter two men, both who want her affection, and you have a love triangle on top of everything else! It's not a light-hearted book, though; in spite of the tone of this review, the author tackles some serious subjects, such as domestic abuse, hardened hearts, and the struggle for forgiveness.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB

(copied from Amazon.com)

Jennie Troyer knows it's time to remarry. Can she overcome a painful secret and open her heart to love?



It's been four years since Jennie's husband died in a farming accident. Long enough that the elders in her Amish community think it's time to marry again for the sake of her seven children. What they don't know is that grief isn't holding her back from a new relationship. Fear is. A terrible secret in her past keeps her from moving forward.



Mennonite book salesman Nathan Walker stops by Jennie's farm whenever he's in the area. Despite years of conversation and dinners together, she never seems to relax around him. He knows he should move on, but something about her keeps drawing him back.



Meanwhile, Leo Graber nurtures a decades-long love for Jennie, but guilt plagues him--guilt for letting Jennie marry someone else and guilt for his father's death on a hunting trip many years ago. How could anyone love him again--and how could he ever take a chance to love in return?



In this second book in the Every Amish Season series, three hearts try to discern God's plan for the future--and find peace beneath the summer sun.





MY REVIEW

As with all of Kelly's other books I've read this was a very good read. She pulls you into the world of abusive that can happen in Amish communities just as it does in the English ones, the struggle to 'not' blame yourself for everything that happens to you and finding the strength and faith to move on with your life and let yourself be happy again. I am really enjoying this series and would suggest that you read the books in order. Now onto the third book "Through the Autumn Air", can't wait!!

[Becky Fleming · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to admit Amish fiction is just not my favorite genre. I don"t hate it, it's just not my favorite. So, honestly my expectations were not that high for this book. But I have to say I ended up loving this one!

This is the second in a series of books, Every Amish Season, by Kellie Irvin. I am sure I missed a lot of back story as I have not read the first. But it worked as a stand alone just fine.

This book does not follow the typical pattern for most Amish fictions. The characters were well developed and complex. There were some tough issues dealt with like spousal abuse, cancer, childhood trauma, and death.

I loved the love triangle between Jenny and Leo and Nathan! Had me guessing for a good long while as to who would (or should) win her heart!

The abuse Jenny suffered from her late husband left her with PTSD and crippled her ability to move on in life. It strained all her relationships. My heart grieved for her! I felt her pain, her trauma, her grief, and her lack of trust. And then when her son, Matthew started to rebel and act out, I felt her shame and her feeling of helplessness. But I also felt his pain - of what it must feel like to be a child and feel desperate to protect your mother from your abusive father, to be abused by him and fear him and hate him but at the same time love him.

I loved this book so much that I want to go back and read the first book and read the first book!

I recommend this book to anyone who loves Amish fiction and to those, like me, who just sort-of enjoy it. It is well written and it will definitely move your heart!

I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, and all opinions are mine alone.

[Danielle Urban · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun by Kelly Irvin is an interesting tale. One full of faith, hope, and love. Three protagonists have their own dilemmas to face. The question of them being able to move forward and find happiness caught my attention. Pain, loss, and fear cloud the characters as they struggle to face their issues.

Clean and heartfelt, I felt like I was there with the characters.
Kelly Irvin has created a believable plot. Jennie is scared to love again after her abusive marriage. But with all of her kids, she needs a man in her life. Nathan is looking for love too, but he struggles accepting his faith. He must first find that before he can love anyone. Leo like Jennie has faced a loss. He lost his father and struggled with wanting to save others especially Jennie. But his fear of not being able to save someone he loves has him stuck in a rut.

A love mess with two Christian men chasing after one widow, made me smile. It gave a shed of lightness to Jennie's dark marriage and to Leo's loss. Having a third character brought out a little more in Leo. It gave me more of the push he needed to go after Jennie. Jennie is super easy to connect to...her situation made her likable. She felt real. I really liked her.

Beneath the Summer Sun was a sweet journey. A path to finding oneself and one's heart. Having faith helped these characters face their lives in the present. Slow but steady, I think these characters will have found what they're looking for in life. Overall, I enjoyed reading this novel.

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review notary review.

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

Jennie lost her husband four years ago and she is struggling to make ends meet with seven kids. Atlee was not a nice husband and has forever scarred her emotionally to love again or so she thinks.

Nathan, a Mennonite bookseller, has fallen in love with Jennie over the years he has stopped by her place trying to sell her books. He thinks he wants to become Amish but us he doing it for the right reasons?

Leo used to be in love with Jennie when they were younger but life got in the way from him pursuing her further. Can he overcome his own demons and learn to love again?

I truly enjoyed this book even though it was not a light hearted Amish read as most. Kelly Irvin tackles abuse between husband and wife and child and father. She tackles death from all sides with the upside of new life. I feel as if she really gets down and deep into true Amish life as much as one can to keep the reader still interested. We read to escape reality in some way and don't want constant reminders of the "real world". Irvin has it down to a science to write about real subjects but not fully immersing in to real world. We still get our fairy tale ending.

This is the second book in the Every Amish Season series and both books are a true work of art. If you want an Amish fiction story with a little more grit I suggest starting with this book that can be read as a stand alone with no problems.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the surface, Jennie Trotter might not seem like a woman who would have two men wanting to declare their interest. She's a thirty-seven year old widow with seven children who tries to avoid men. She knows that her Amish community will expect to marry again, but she is emotionally scarred and fears repeating past mistakes.

Jennie's trauma is experienced through vivid flashbacks, as memories are triggered by the simplest of things, sending her spiraling into panic. Trauma she doesn't realize has affected her oldest son as well, until he begins acting out. It is in this and other life challenges that Leo and Nathan attempt to help Jennie, with varying degrees of acceptance and success.

As I consider this book, it is possibly the relationships between each man and the Trotter children that endeared them to me beyond the way they treated Jennie. Though I would wish that more of the children felt more fleshed out, the three that are were just right for this story.

This was a sweetly satisfying, gently paced novel of wounded people in need of healing. The writing sweeps you into the story and the characters hold you there. A wonderful follow-up to Upon a Spring Breeze, and I'm looking forward to continuing this series.

This review refers to a finished paperback I voluntarily received from Thomas Nelson and Zondervan's Fiction Guild. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner from the talented Kelly Irvin! I have been looking forward to more stories of the three older Jamesport widows in this unusual series, but this book went beyond my expectations.

Who couldn't empathize with Jennie Troyer - a devoted mother of seven, carrying such a painful secret that her life seemed an endless round of chores and fearful flashbacks? But she's not the only one hurting from old wounds; three of the most important males in her life find their attitudes and choices shaped by missing fathers. Each character has to decide whether to keep hiding their scars and disappointment inside, or risk opening their hearts and admitting their need for healing. Each has to trust God to mend their traumatized spirits and show them the path He has for them.

If you read Amish fiction to escape your "real" world for a gentle, old fashioned place, Irvin's books are not for you. Instead, she vividly shows us what struggles we all have in common, and how only God can untangle our hearts' messy knots, while giving us a well-researched peek into the Plain life. Let me warn you, your heart will race as page-by-page you discover the secrets of Jamesport (Does this sound like a pacifist to you? "If I had known...It would have ended or I would have ended him.")! This is the second book of the "Every Amish Season" series, and although they can be read as stand-alone novels, do yourself a favor and read "Upon a Spring Breeze" first. You'll meet some familiar characters, and recognize anew how long love can endure dormancy before blossoming.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via the Fiction Guild, and was not required to post a review.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun is the second book in Kelly Irvin’s An Every Amish Season series.

We returned to Jamesport, Missouri to follow Jennie Troyer, another woman in the close-knit group of widows. Jennie lost her husband, Atlee, four years ago and has been struggling to be both mother and father to her seven children. Jennie did not have as happy a marriage as her other widowed friends. She is faced with nightmares and memories that seem to flood her thoughts at all times. Her oldest child, Matthew, is facing his own set of issues due to his father. He starts his Rumspringa earlier than intended and Jennie is left with trying to address not only her memories but that of her son. Nathan, a traveling book salesman, and Leo, a long-time friend, both take an interest in Jennie. She is left to decide if her heart can handle trying again or if the memories of an angry husband will run her change at a second hope.

Ms. Irvin touches on a very hard topic in this story line, domestic abuse. The author presents this topic with grace. The characters were all easy to love and befriend and the storyline keep me from wanting to put the book down.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from netgalley in return for my honest opinion of the book. All opinions and statements expressed are strictly my own.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Gripping Read!

Kelly Irvin knows how to tell a good story (her Amish of Bee County series being among my faves.) But her latest Every Amish Season series seems to be pulling in for a close second. Book Two in this series, Beneath the Summer Sun, is the most recent release and it’s a keeper!

Jennie Troyer is widowed and the mother of seven (yes, seven) children. It’s been four years since her husband has passed and she is afraid – but her fears run much deeper than finding a new husband. She’s petrified by a haunting past.

Nathan Walker is a book-loving Mennonite and natural-born salesman. He too has a hurtful past and longs to be a part of the Amish community – and Jennie’s life.

Leo Graber is yet another character that has unresolved issues from his past…like loving Jennie from afar for the last couple of decades.

Can all three of these people come to terms with their individual pasts? Is love a possibility for any of them? Read and find out!

I was given Beneath the Summer Sun in exchange for my honest review. Although this is Book Two in the series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone. It was a gripping read. Irvin pulled me in from the first chapter. I had no choice but to stay up late and read the whole thing. Get reading – you won’t be disappointed!

[Serendipity Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t usually read emotional novels set in Amish enclaves, but when I do it is by Kelly Irvin. Irvin’s “Beneath the Summer Sun” is the second in a seasonal series that includes “Upon a Spring Breeze” and “Through the Autumn Air.”

Irvin’s writing style builds several characters well enough to explain the story that is lavishly told here. The writing style is direct and details daily activities of the characters in the midst of complex relationship choices – both those made and missed. Irvin also includes a glossary for several pennsylvania Dutch terms used by those characters. Though, most if not all are easily discerned through context, so flipping back and forth isn’t necessarily required.

What is not detailed is the Amish cultural mindset, which is necessary context for getting engrossed in the story. If this is a context you are familiar with, then the characters’ choices will make sense with the limited character development used and you will quite likely enjoy this novel. However, if you are not familiar with this context, the characters will fall a bit flat and this probably isn’t a read you will thoroughly enjoy.

I received my copy through a Goodreads giveaway.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kelly Irvin is a very talented writer, and this book showcases her talent. This is an emotional, heart-wrenching book to read. The main theme throughout the book is recovery from both physical and emotional domestic abuse. Ms. Irvin successfully brings all the heartache and emotions to the story from the viewpoint of the abused wife and her older son. As we follow Jennie though the storyline, we experience her fear, sorrow, anger and even undeserved guilt over being glad that she was rescued from the situation by the accidental death of her husband. The characters of Leo, Jennie, and Nathan are very compelling. Their lives intersect for a purpose as they seek to find hope and faith again.

This book is not light reading. But even though the topic is abuse, Kelly Irvin effectively communicates this without any bad language or inappropriate scenes. Definitely a book for mature readers. If you have a young teen girl, I’d suggest first reading it yourself.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review. This is my honest opinion of the book.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author had me guessing from beginning to end as to who Jennie’s choice would be, or if she could ever commit again.
Shocking facts come out about her marriage to a sadist and shows that abuse crosses all cultures, and Jennie and her seven children are survivors. Will Jennie ever be able to trust her heart again, widows are expected to remarry and provide a father figure for their children, but will she ever be able to trust again.
The candidates are a friendly Mennonite man with hidden childhood hurts, and a very quiet Amish man who once had his chance to be with Jennie. I know I found myself rooting for one, and was right, but there is a lot going on to bring myself to the conclusion.
We are Jamesport, Mo and back with old friends, and walk with this Amish Community as they go about their everyday life, and try to make ends meet, and we watch as they survive the trials that come their way.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beneath the Summer Sun by Kelly Irvin was a terrific second book in the An Every Season Amish series. I love how her novels keep the same characters while adding depth to the ones I’ve already grown to love and introducing yet even more. What a beautiful depiction of a subject relevant to today’s headlines; yet not very talked about privately. I thought she did a great job interweaving the healing of similar but different issues along with a myriad of other themes effortlessly. My heart went out to Jennie’s oldest son, Matthew, and I love how healing was portrayed for him too. The theme of friendship and family ties, always prevalent in Amish stories are portrayed even more so in this series. I cannot wait to continue my friendship with Adian and Bess, Jennie, Laura, Mary Katherine, and Leo in the next book, slated to release this summer. I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Kelly Tyree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Beneath the Summer Sun. It focuses on a widow, Jennie Troyer, with seven children who was emotionally and physically abused by her husband. She carries the scars of that relationship with her. Her oldest child carries those scars as well. Jennie knows the community wants her to remarry but she is scared she will fall victim to another abusive relationship.

Leo Graber has suffered loss. Those losses have made him withdraw. He knows he needs to begin to heal so that he can have the family he longs for. He missed out on Jennie when they were younger. Now that she is a widow, he longs to take care of her.

As Leo and Jennie begin to see each other more their feelings for one another begin to grow but both have their own issues to work through. When Leo begins to help Jennie with her oldest son, they decide they want to take a chance. But there is another man who has thrown his hat down and wants a future with Jennie. Who will she choose and can she ever trust a man fully?