A Place at Our Table

Amish Homestead #1

by Amy Clipston

Kayla Dienner has suffered her fair share of heartache, which is why she vows to protect her heart at all costs . . . until she meets Jamie Riehl.

Along with his volunteer work at the local fire department, running his Amish farm keeps Jamie Riehl busy. He barely has time to eat at the family table, never mind find someone to date. But when he meets Kayla Dienner, he is smitten.

Kayla tries hard to deny her attraction to Jamie. After all, she’s spent the last year discouraging her younger brother, Nathan, from becoming a firefighter. The death of their older brother in a fire a year ago is fresh in her mind—she can’t bear the idea of putting her heart on the line every time the sirens blare.

Then tragedy strikes, and Jamie wants to extinguish any flame between him and Kayla. Can Kayla set aside her own fears to save the love she was determined to deny?

The first book in the Amish Homestead series, A Place at Our Table invites us to a quiet community in Lancaster County where love burns brightly no matter the cost.

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

327 pages, Paperback

First published November 14, 2017

About the author

Hi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.

Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)

Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)

Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)


An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)

An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)

An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)

An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)

Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)

Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)

Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)

Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)

Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)

Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Place at Our Table

Amy Clipston

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.


A PLACE AT OUR TABLE is the first book in the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston. It is the story of Jamie Riehl who is an Amish firefighter and also a dairy farmer. He is running ragged between both jobs and feels he never has enough time to get things done on the farm. After a tragedy strikes his family, Jamie blames himself and struggles to leave the guilt behind. Just before this happened, he met Kayla Dienner, when her families barn caught fire and he is instantly taken with her. At first Jamie doesn't entertain making her his girlfriend because he doesn't believe he has time in his life for dating plus his family needs him too much.


A PLACE AT OUR TABLE is about Kayla learning to trust her heart and Jamie and letting go of the past. Amy Clipston sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with the family dealing with all their troubles. She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Amy Clipston book if you are a fan of the Amish genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a family can stand before it completely breaks down and splits.


A PLACE AT OUR TABLE is a heart tugging story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once I started this heartwarming story, it was very hard to put down! All of the Amish value their family time at the kitchen table. It is where they come together after a long, hard day of work. Is there a place at the table for Kayla and Jamie? A PLACE AT OUR TABLE brought back many memories of my own family dinners at our kitchen table and I found myself smiling while reading. Will these two families ever overcome their grief of losing a loved one? I couldn't wait to finish this wonderful story to see if Jamie was able to find balance in his life or would he just keep working while life passed him by. I'm so excited to continue with this series.

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet Amish romance.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kayla Dienner meets Jamie Riehl the night her families barn is on fire. Jamie is an Amish firefighter. I've never heard of Amish firefighters before. Do the Amish even allow this? Kayla's younger brother Nathan, along with the rest of her family is having a hard time coping with the death of the oldest brother who died as a firefighter battling a blaze. Nathan needs someone to look up to since his brother is gone and latches onto Jamie and now wants to train as a firefighter as well. Kayla just can't allow her heart and her family to go through anymore heartache. What if she were to lose another brother to a fire as well? As we all know though the heart and brain aren't always in agreement and she can't seem to get her brain to not fall in love with Jamie. Is she willing to risk her heart on a firefighting man. When a tragedy happens in Jamie's family Kayla's family is there in full support. There is no set timetable when we are grieving it has to be a natural process and supported by those close around you. The romance between Kayla and jamie seems to on again off again throughout the book. I do wish it had been more consistent because I thought it would have shown better character development if it had. Both of the couple's families where there for each other throughout the story which was good. This was different than any Amish book I've read before, while it was good it wasn't bad but not a favorite of mine.
Pub Date 14 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Zondervan Fiction for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About this book:

“Kayla Dienner has suffered her fair share of heartache, which is why she vows to protect her heart at all costs . . . until she meets Jamie Riehl.
Along with his volunteer work at the local fire department, running his Amish farm keeps Jamie Riehl busy. He barely has time to eat at the family table, never mind find someone to date. But when he meets Kayla Dienner, he is smitten.
Kayla tries hard to deny her attraction to Jamie. After all, she’s spent the last year discouraging her younger brother, Nathan, from becoming a firefighter. The death of their older brother in a fire a year ago is fresh in her mind—she can’t bear the idea of putting her heart on the line every time the sirens blare.
Then tragedy strikes, and Jamie wants to extinguish any flame between him and Kayla. Can Kayla set aside her own fears to save the love she was determined to deny?
The first book in the Amish Homestead series, A Place at Our Table invites us to a quiet community in Lancaster County where love burns brightly no matter the cost.”


Series: Book #1 in the “Amish Homestead” series.


Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are quoted, mentioned, & talked about; Prayers; Church going; Talks about God, His will, & having faith; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God & His will; Mentions of thanking & praising God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, ministers, services, sermons, hymnals/hymns, & youth groups/gatherings; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A few mentions of faiths; A few mentions of a devotional & reading it; A few mentions of sinning.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘dumb’, an ‘idiot’, and two ‘stupid’s; Some eye rolling & sarcasm; Fires, smoke, injuries, & pain (semi-detailed); Seeing a dead body of a loved one (barely-above-not-detailed); Many, many mentions of fires, car accidents, accidents, injuries, blood/bleeding, pain, the possibility of harm/dying, & deaths (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of hatred; Mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of throwing up.


Sexual Content- a palm kiss, a cheek kiss, an almost kiss, and three semi-detailed kisses; Remembering a (cheek) kiss (semi-detailed); Wanting to kiss someone (once); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Smelling, Warmth, & Butterflies (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing & Staring (barely-above-not-detailed); Many mentions of dates, dating, asking someone out, couples, boyfriends, girlfriends, breakups, exes, & heartbreak; Mentions of flirting; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of kisses & kissing; A couple mentions of married couples kissing (not-detailed); Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A mention of butting into someone’s business; A mention of being the butt of people’s jokes.

-Kayla Dienner
-James “Jamie” Riehl, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them
327 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
It’s the start to a brand new Amy Clipston series!
And what a good start to a new series it was! :)
After being shocked with the tragedy the back cover mentions, I was a bit on the edge of my seat…wanting everything to go well from there on out. I truly could see both sides of Kayla & Jamie’s reactions, but I definitely was more on Kayla’s side the majority of the time. I really did love how much importance was placed on family.
It did feel a little bit more romance-y than Amy Clipston’s previous books with all the feelings and those ending kisses, but it’s still a very clean novel whose sequel I’m looking forward to reading!


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Zondervan) for this honest review.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was almost as if I were watching this story unfold in slow motion, and found myself yelling “No”, and knew exactly what was going to happen, and having no way to prevent it.
Heartache prevails here, and enough grief to cover everyone, and yet you feel God’s presence and love covering these souls.
Can a seasoned griever help one with new grief, or will they end up helping each other, and that is the hope.
This story shows personal grief, but because we are with the emergency responders, we meet a lot of tragic situations head on. Will working and living in this situation be the catalyst to bring two hurting people together, or the ultimate reason they go their separate ways.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful

This is truly a charming novel. It is a a love story sent in the Ammas community of Pennsylvania. It was special to me, because we grew up not far from this community. Although we are not Amish in anyway.

Character, strong, setting and overall fine.

[Amanda Tero · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amish fiction intrigues me. I realize it’s a super popular genre, which is probably why I’ve been hesitant to read it. I enjoy reading about life, not a romanticized version of life. And I do think that Amy Clipston captured this well in her novel. Her characters felt very real, and were definitely all very human with their ups and downs.

There didn’t seem to be a lot of Amish doctrine in here—Amish life, yes, but it didn’t go a ton into what they believe apart from everyday conversation about having faith in God, God’s will being done, and praying to him. Those were all a very strong thread. There wasn’t anything about the Gospel or salvation, but that’s not to say it didn’t have a message threaded through the pages. If anything, the message that stood out strongest to me was how to accept heartache and cling to God in grief.

I’d consider this book primarily a romance. There were, of course, other things that happened, but the primary plot and characters’ goals were obviously romance. And, as I must always put as a disclaimer, I’m just not a huge romance fan. It’s probably just my perspective but I thought that Kayla was kind of a selfish jerk. There was a ton about her hurt... and though her change of heart kind of was mentioned in the epilogue, I guess I just didn’t find it satisfying—which, could be me being just nit-picky. She pretty much just regretted her actions because of what she would lose (which, for me, is selfish). I’ll stop before I beat her up more, it just was maybe a little shallow there for me?
Back to the romance in general, while there were a lot of thoughts about getting married and finding a wife/husband, a lot of family teasing to “grab them before they slip by,” it really didn’t go into more than emotions with the romance. A couple of quick kisses were mentioned, but the presentation of the romance was fairly chaste (just... threading through the entire book, which isn’t my preference, but is what many people enjoy).

There was a ton of drama and loss—for some people, this one will be a real tear-jerker. All in all, it wasn’t a disappointing read.

*I received this book from Book Look Bloggers and happily provided my honest review*

[⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm · Rating 3 out of 5]

FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!

Having started out with the author's entire Kauffman Amish Bakery series, I have to say, this was not my favorite read by this author! It took me a while to read it, and I felt that I was really forcing myself to do so.

Part of my problem with this story was that I hated the on again/off again nature of the relationship between Jamie and Kayla. I hated how Kayla couldn't make up her mind if she would accept Jamie's volunteer firefighting or not. I also hated Jamie's almost "selfish" nature, when it came to balancing Kayla into his life.

Speaking of the volunteer firefighting, it seemed very out of place for an Amish community to center around firefighting! It seemed so atypical for the Amish, that it was difficult to actually believe in the concept!

Although I really struggled with the story, I am still looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Just Commonly · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Grief is tough. It has a way of sneaking up on you."

Grief. Such a heavy word. In A Place at Our Table, the first of a new series, Amish Homestead by Amy Clipston, grief lays claim as one of the major themes. It's not just the melancholic experience, but the premise of grieving, and finding the light of hope amidst the darkness that grief creates. And hope we will see.

I just love the author's writing. She has a way to bring readers into each of her story, at least in the ones I've read. In A Place at Our Table, readers will experience heartache as scenarios enfolds, just as our characters will. It's like Jamie, Kayla or each of their family and friends are personal friends of ours, at at least acquaintances that we know. The connection isn't just between our characters, but also with the readers as well. The community, and especially the support between the Riehl and Dienner families really brought out the kindness of neighbors, and it made me want to be a part of it.

Sadness from lost, stress when pulled too tight and guilt of what could've been all intertwined in the characters' lives, but how it played out, that's A Place at Our Table. The perfect articulation of dealing, of trusting and of forgiving, partnering with God's grace and mercy made for quite a insightful read. I love it and I look forward to the next books in the series.

"We always have a place at our table for our freinden."


This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.

Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion. Please note, all quotes are taken from ARC (essentially an uncorrected proof). Please do not share quote or if do, please make note that it is taken from an ARC.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Place At Our Table is the first book written by Amy Clipston in her An Amish Homestead series. The characters that Amy has chosen for this book are wonderful and very lifelike. I. found myself befriending all of them.

This is a heartwarming story involving two Amish families and how they deal with the loss of a loved one. As I read this story I found myself feeling exactly what the characters were feeling. This book describes exactly what each individual character is feeling to draw the reader right into the heart of this story.

I loved the character James who is established as a volunteer firefighter and shows the readers his struggles to divide his time between being a wonderful son, friend, and boyfriend. His struggles threatens to tear him a part from his family and girlfriend both of which he loves and is very loyal to. The author definitely delivered an amazing storyline thru her characters.

I highly recommend this book to all those who love the Amish genre. I have also rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations on a story that I would recommend to others.

I was given a complimentary eBook thru Net Galley. I was not asked to post a favorable review. This book is amazing and enjoyable.

Congratulations to Amy Clipston on writing another wonderful book for her readers. I will be anticipating the next book for release from this author.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy, another wonderful Amish story.I do love your writing style. An
A Mother's Prayer is my favorite!
I did however feel sorry for Jamie. I do know how it is to loose a parent especially a mom! I lost my mom in 1998 and I still miss her very much!
I lost dad in 2009. You never ever get over missing a mom, dad, or whatever the case may be.
I love how friendships were made through grief and isn't that how weird it works out?
Grief has no limit, time to go away. It does eventually get better and you learn how to cope without that person in your life.
I wound up blubbering and wiping my nose in certain scenes and rejoicing in other places!
I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
Thank you Netgalley for letting me read and review your books
No compensation was received and all opinions are my own.
All in all, a very well written book

[Marilyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

A predictable story with unsurprising themes about families, conflict, love and being hurt by love, and forgiveness. Read because I wanted to see what the hype was about with requests at our local Midwestern library for Amish novels. I found it tedious that every little thought was shared in dialog, the characters had no private feelings at all until they retreated to their bedrooms to cry alone. Grieving was recognized but not openly shared. Everyone had advice for everyone else, and always apologizing for slight or even perceived infractions. I found the writing lacking depth, and the heavy use of dietsch (Amish dialect, from the Deutschland Sprache) doesn’t redeem it.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jamie Riehl is a Firefighter in an Amish Community in Lancaster County. He is attending a barn fire on the property of the Dienner when he has to rescue the youngest child, Nathan. He meets Kayla, Nathan's sister and something clicks, that is until Jamie encourages Nathan to sign up for firefighter training. Simeon, Kayla's older brother was killed in a firefighting accident and they are still getting over it. Kayla just can't allow her heart and her family to go through anymore heartache. What if she were to lose another brother to a fire as well? What if she lets Jaimie into her heart and he is killed? She is not able to resist Jamie and she becomes more attached to him as the story progresses. The romance between Kayla and jamie seems to on again off again throughout the book. When a situation occurs that rocks Jamie's world, he is not sure if he will ever have time to devote to a girlfriend.

I really liked Jamie and Kayla and my heart went out to both of them. Kayla did aggravate me at times, not willing to give Jamie the benefit of the doubt, but then again, she was dealing with her past situations as well. As Jamie dealt with his guilt by working himself ragged at both the farm and firehouse, I wanted to give him a hug and a slap at the same time. It was nice to see how these two families became entwined in each other's lives so quickly, just like you would expect in a small community. I enjoyed this story and look forward to the next one in this series. This is the first book I have read by Amy Clipston and it seems that her previous books are even better than this one based on reviews. It looks like I may have found another wonderful author to follow. Thanks to Zondervan who generously provided me with a copy of this book to read.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I unfortunately read this series out of order, and this first book is the one I read last! I already knew from the later books one of the major plot points in this story, but I still wasn't prepared for the emotion of the scene. I loved the way Kayla kept reaching out to Jamie and his family during their difficult times. The book description isn't correct- Kayla doesn't have an issue with Jamie being a firefighter, she has difficulty trusting men who keep letting her down and not following through with promises. Jamie never wanted to "extinguish their flame" as described, he was begging for another chance when he let Kayla down. The angst between the two of them was a bit immature and premature- I think their relationship needed to develop more for the type of expectations Kayla had for Jamie. I love Jamie's family and it was great to see the earlier days of those characters that have their own stories in the other books in the series.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

This starts out as a classic love story -- boy meets girl, sparks fly, complications ensue -- but then it morphs into so much more. Because there is one complication that...well, it took my breath away. It had me closing the book in disbelief and dismay because this was so not where I saw things going. At all. And it made my heart hurt. And from that one situation a deeper story blossoms. One where the characters have to stop trying to figure God out and just trust Him. Where they have to face the hard stuff and get through just because it's the right thing...the only thing...to do. Where loving someone is as risky as it gets but also completely and utterly necessary. Because we aren't meant to live this life alone. We were created to love and support one another. And it's hard. And scary. But also thrilling. So, if you like your romance with a bit of kick to it, A Place at Our Table is the book for you.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awwwwwwwwwww!!!

This was so sweet!!! For some reason (I think because of the cover and the release date) I thought this book was set in the autumn around thanksgiving but it's actually set in the summer. Oh well.

My confusion about the setting aside, this was a really sweet book. It was very sad in parts, and I really felt for the characters and what they were going through. It was also very heartwarming.

I have enjoyed pretty much every book I've read by this author and I was very excited to start her new series. It's always fun to get to know the characters and how their lives intersect. I really hope Eva and Nathan get their own books later in the series.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clipston gives us a good look at the daily life of the Amish along with emergencies, grief, and tender romance. It's a gentle story of Amish life yet it also portrays the ups and downs they face just as other people do. A rich variety of characters that populate Bird-in-Hand Pennsylvania adds to the depth of the story.

Throughout the story, you definitely see that families are important and matchmaking is always on the women's minds. Jamie and Kayla are both dealing with grief due to the loss of family members. They also feel that they are to blame for their deaths in some fashion. Jamie is bashful and his sole focus is on the family farm and his volunteer work for the fire department. Kayla has been hurt by a previous courtship and is not sure she wants to go through that again. Can they both move forward and come to terms with the past?

Clipston definitely gives more depth to her Amish stories than so many of those that just follow a formulaic pattern of either Amish courtship or Amish meets English.

[Diamond Jones-Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #1 in The Amish Homestead series was a good read. I tried to understand what Jamie was going through. But, for some reason I kept yelling at him in my head doing this book. I know he was mourning and tried to have good intentions for Kayla. But his heart was in the wrong place. Jamie couldn't focus on what should have been important when starting a new relationship. I was hopeful that the two would figure out how to make things work when they both had experienced lost in their family. The setting, plot and characters were all great. Learning about the Amish volunteering for a fire department was so uplifting and nerve wrecking at the same time. Looking for to reading book #2.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great story by Amy Clipston!! Ran out and grabbed the second book today!

[Kimberly Rocha~ Book Obsessed Chicks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young Amish woman, Kayla Dienner has already lost one family member to tragedy, she doesn't want anything to happen to her younger brother,Nathan , who is all about becoming a firefighter after he meets part time firefighter, Jamie Riehl.

Kayla meets Amish firefighter, Jamie Riehl when he responds to a fire on the Dienner's property. Jamie was acquainted with the elder Dienner brother who perished in a fire the year before and when the younger Dienner, Nathan, shows an interest, he is glad to help in any way he can. Meeting Kayla also sparks an interest which Jamie has never had before, but knowing that Kayla is so against having Nathan go into firefighting, makes Jamie pause.

Jamie and Kayla begin a friendship and a courtship of sorts but both have reservations which can make or break their relationship. It seems to Kayla, that she cares more for whatever the two have together since Jamie misses dates with her. When a heartbreaking tragedy strikes Jamie's family, he feels the weight of the world on his shoulders doubt that he can ever be what Kayla needs.

Can two people who obviously care so much for each other overcome the obstacles blocking their paths? Can both Kayla and Jamie set aside their sadness and look to a future with one another? All these questions and more are answered in Amy Clipston's A PLACE AT OUR TABLE.

Having only started reading Amish romance novels the past year or so, I have quickly fallen in love with Amy Clipston's stories subject matters and the people she so eloquently describes. This story in particular hits home for me because I have a son who is a volunteer firefighter who wants to make a career of it in the FDNY. Kayla's feelings for her brother Nathan mimic this reader's and add to the appeal. I enjoyed learning about the Dienner family and the Riehl family and I hope to reading more about them in the future.

[kerrycat · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I gave this four stars in the November 2017 issue of RTBR: https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...) my personal rating - 4.5 stars

Clipston brings readers another intense family drama, as well as romance, thanks to her new series. The Amish Homestead series takes a look at the difficulties first responders have in their personal lives as they juggle their desire to help others with their dedication to family and friends. While Kayla and Jamie have many sweet moments together, the author never loses sight of the very real problems their relationship faces in light of their busy schedules and the personal losses they have each faced — even as the strength of their love and faith guides them to choose a life together.

Kayla is determined to avoid romance after the way her last boyfriend treated her, focusing on her family and her work at the restaurant they own, but Jamie makes her want to take chances with her heart again. Jamie is overworked between his chores on the family farm and volunteering as a firefighter, but his attraction to Kayla, who is not only beautiful but smart and hardworking, is undeniable. Kayla understands his devotion to his family and firefighting, but wants someone who will make her a priority in his life. After her brother died working as a firefighter, she knows how dangerous the job can be and wonders if she can handle worrying about losing Jamie to such a fate. Jamie is torn between all the responsibilities he takes on, but losing someone close to him makes him reconsider who and what is important in his life. Can Kayla give Jamie another chance to make their love work, and will Jamie take his father’s advice to live life to the fullest?

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

“A Place at Our Table” by Amy Clipston is the first book in the “Amish Homestead” series. It deals with very realistic issues and can be a heavier read at times, but the romance is so sweet. I don’t usually expect Amish books to deal with such complex topics, but I really enjoyed it!

The characters in this book deal with loss, fear, guilt and grief. I felt the first half of the book is rather heavy; but as it shifted to focus more on the romance, the tone turns lighter and sweeter. I really appreciate the lessons the story includes, such as trusting the Lord with our futures and that tomorrow is never promised so you should live your life to the fullest.

There are some great relationships and friendships in this book. I appreciate seeing the family and sibling relationships, which play a big role in the story. The romance is sweet and slow building. I found myself really rooting for Kayla and Jamie (our main characters) and their relationship.

All in all, I enjoyed this book. In the beginning it was slower for me and dealt with some heavy topics, but as the story progressed, I found myself invested in the characters. I would especially recommend this book to fans of Amish fiction.

Content: This is a clean read with no mature content.

Rating: I give this book 3.5 stars.

Genre: Amish; Christian fiction; Romance

I want to thank the Fiction Guild, Amy Clipston and Zondervan for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good read from the talented hands of Mrs. Clipston. I was super excited when I read the blurb for this book. Being married to a firefighter, I'm always partial to books that include a firefighter or anything to do with rescuing. So, when I saw that this was not only another awesome Amish novel, but that it was about an Amish firefighter, I was instantly pulled to it. And, I was pleasantly surprised with this one. It was a good combination.

Meeting Jamie and Kayla was like meeting up with long ago friends. Their characters were instantly a part of me and I loved watching their story unfold. Dealing with pain and tragedy, these two hearts beat as one from their first meeting. Watching them grow in their feelings for each other was a refreshing start to a new series.

Like Kayla, when the sirens go, my heart skips a beat. I hold my breath until my husband is home safe and sound. The way Mrs. Clipston blends everyday life of firefighting with the plain, simple living of the Amish is a treat for sure!

This is definitely a 4 star, highly recommended read if you want something different. It's detailed and rich, and the characters don't stay characters for long. Each page turn brings you closer to the hearts of Kayla and Jamie, and I am excited to see what Mrs. Clipston has in store for us with book 2! Fantastic job!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy Clipston, as usual, has done extensive research into the Amish faith and firefighters among the Amish and the Englisch for this first book in the Amish Homestead series. After reading this first book, I am eager to read the remaining books in series. The book begins with action and thrill as the firefighters receive a call to a fire in an Amish barn . There are animals and people to rescue and care for. Past trauma for Kayla as she lost her brother in a fire cause her to resist her attraction to Jamie because he's a firefighter too. Further developments for Jamie will put their relationship to the test.
Readers will be anxious to read and find out if Kayla and Jamie can move past their pain and grief to a relationship together or will they turn to others for their future partners? The Amish place great value in family and the thought of sitting around the kitchen table figure heavily into the Amish home. Is there a place at the table for Jamie? for Kayla?
I am rating this book 5 ***** stars. I highly recommend it to both adult and teenage readers.
I received an ebook of this selection from netgalley and Zondervan in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to post a positive review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a dynamic and emotional introduction to this new series! A Place at Our Table was a powerful book, full of heartache, uncertainty, guilt, love, loss, and so much more. The author truly delved deeply into the hearts of the characters, brought out their insecurities and failings, then allowed them to grow and persevere through the times that were so challenging.

A Place at Our Table was full of so many interestesting personalities. I especially liked the main characters, Kayla and Jamie. Even when they were making choices that I didn’t agree with, or having trouble balancing their new relationship in the midst of sorrow and worry, I enjoyed reading about them. They both had some growing to do and, unfortunately, that growth had some pain involved.

I could hardly set this book down and I already wish that I could pick up the next book in the series (which isn’t out yet)! I highly recommend this novel to fans of Amish fiction.

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

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

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Place At Our Table ( Amish Homestead #1 )
By: Amy Clipston
A Place at our Table is book one in Amish Homestead series. This is a very heartwarming story and I found myself saying No several times. Clipston drew me in right at the start and I was hooked. Love the story and the characters were well developed and lifelike. This story is about two Amish families and their loss and how they cope. Jamie and Kayla are the two main character. Jamie works on the family farm and also at the local fire department. Kayla has loss love and trying to protect her heart. These two are trying to find their way, but having struggles. I had tears in my eyes most of the times while reading A Place At Our Table.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley , but was not told that I had to give a positive review.

[Dwina Willis · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was disappointed in Amy Clipston's A Place at our Table. She writes about an James, a farmer & firefighter, who falls for Kayla who has lost her brother as he was fighting a fire. James's mother dies in an accident and James blames himself. While Kayla tries to comfort him, she is very demanding, insisting she should be first in his life -- above his family, farm, and firefighting. He blames himself for his mother's accident and tries to drown his guilt in work. She is very self-centered, and I wearied of reading about her demands on James. Eventually they both find some balance in their lives and solve their relational issues. It was not one of my favorites reads.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Place at Our Table is a pretty good read by Amy Clipston and is the first installment of the An Amish Homestead series. I absolutely loved the characters and found them to be delightful. The author really knew how to write true to life emotions and struggles that the characters were going through.
I found A Place at Our Table to be a fabulous beginning to a series and look forward to reading the others that will be part of it in the future.
Great Amish read. I would recommend it and give 4 stars.

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Place At Our Table is An Amish Homestead Novel by Amy Clipston. If you love to read Amish fiction than this is the book for you. She has a way of drawing the reader into the story. A Place At Our Table is my favorite book of Amy’s so far. I felt as though I was experiencing everything as it happened. There is so much love, faith, heartache, pain and so much more. Be sure to get your copy of the book today. I received a complementary copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion. 4.5 stars!

[Kati · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was another of those books where I can't figure out if the narrator was the problem, or the writing. The dialogue seems so "child-like", stilted and unnatural at times. I just find it hard to believe that Amish people talk that differently than the rest of us.

The epilogue was useless ... it simply rehashed the last bit of the book. I'm assuming the characters end up married, I think it would have been more useful and enjoyable for the author to use the epilogue to jump ahead to their wedding day or something.