Firestorm

The Amish of Mackinac County #1

by Laura V. Hilton

When Bridget Behr and her family migrate from a bustling Amish community in Ohio to the remote and isolated Upper Peninsula of Michigan, they’re met with an ugly surprise: the house they had bought sight unseen is an uninhabitable wreck. While her father and brother try to find work in the area, the family is forced to live in tents until the house and barn are rebuilt. Bridget can’t shake the guilt that it was her fault her family moved—and is too afraid to trust anyone, especially the flirtatious, overly-friendly Amish man who lives next door.

Gabriel Lapp has made Michigan his home out of necessity, but can’t wait to move back to Florida with its sunshine and warmer temperatures. But when Bridget’s family seeks refuge with Gabe during a fierce thunderstorm, he can’t help but feel a tug of responsibility for them—especially the girl with the dark green eyes.

Just as Bridget is finally settling into friendship, a new life, and maybe even love, a devastating forest fire ravages the county, destroying both land and the Behr's dreams. Now Bridget and her family must decide: will they leave behind the ashes and start anew in another Amish community?  Or will they dare to fight for the future they’d hoped for in Mackinac County?
 

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

240 pages, Paperback

Published July 10, 2018

About the author

Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.

Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.

She has self-published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens.

Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer and blogs for Putting on the New and Seriously Write.

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Laura V. Hilton doesn’t write about Amish utopias. Her characters are flawed, and they struggle with living rightly just like we do. They make mistakes. They sin. They say things they shouldn’t. They react in anger. They get caught up in passion. They also like to joke, grin, laugh, eat, and KISS.

In Firestorm, we are treated to more delightfully relatable characters, and despite the frigid Michigan winter the temps are heating up from some mighty fine kisses too. Gabe Lapp is a flirt, plain and simple, with mischievous twinkling eyes that wink audaciously at Bridget to rile her up. He’s not a ‘typical’ Amish hero – as evidenced by the fact that when we (and Bridget’s family) first meet him he’s in psychedelic lime green pajama pants. Bless him, he can’t quite seem to do anything right – at least that’s how he perceives himself. Yet, tucked behind a somewhat misguided-at-times facade beats a true heart that longs to be loved for who he is, mistakes and all.

Bridget is a young woman who has survived one harrowing situation already before we meet her. Now she and her family are thrust into a new life, one her father may not have prepared for as well as he thought he had. Stuck in an RV that sleeps 6 if you pile on each other … with a family of 7 … in the middle of an Upper Peninsula winter with no home yet to speak of. I would not have handled the same situation with nearly as much grace as Bridget does. When you also factor in her uncertainty of the solidity of Gabe’s so-called feelings for her, she has a lot of conflicting emotions to juggle as the story progresses. Hilton weaves this in naturally, and Bridget’s thought processes are easy to identify with.

The other characters in Firestorm are just as intriguing, and I’m really excited to see where Hilton will take some of them in future books. Even Agnes, I must admit, even though she made my whomping purse twitchy a time or two. I loved the bishop! He seems like a great guy with much wisdom – even if some of it made me laugh out loud. Suffice it to say I will never look at a grapefruit quite the same way again.

Bottom Line: Firestorm kicks off a brand new series – in a brand new setting – for Laura Hilton, and her signature style is spot on, once again! Sizzling romantic chemistry and some pretty intense kisses add another of Hilton’s books to my KissingBooks 1o1 syllabus for future lessons here on the blog, too. Her characters are engaging and honest, with humor and heart and faith all combined to give them dimension and relatability. I really like this author’s writing style and I’m looking forward to more in this series!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I bought for my own collection.)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fire Storm is book one in The Amish of Mackinac County by Laura V. Hilton. Laura has written a wonderful story that is packed full of emotions. Characters and a story line that you will surly love. Love, faith, devotion, determination, stubbornness and so much more.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting new series from gifted author Laura V. Hilton, one you don’t want to miss.
I loved this Christian story of Amish life in Michigan, what a change from Ohio, and we experience it first hand through the eyes of the author and her main characters of Bridget Behr and Gabriel Lapp.
A love story, but so much more is included here, a new beginning for a family fleeing a stalker, and wait until you see the house they have purchased sight unseen. Oh my! Then we experience this remote area, with unusual activities for the Amish, Polar Bear Plunge, really?
Yes, we face a lot of adversary conditions, and yet, we see faith unbroken, and you might want to keep the tissue handy as you read this.
This story is so action packed, and keeps you on your toes, you will never see what is coming next, and you don’t want to.
I received this book through the Publisher Whitaker House, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firestorm by Laura Hilton is the first novel in The Amish of Mackinac County series. Bridget Behr and her family arrive in Mackinac County, Michigan from Ohio on a frigid, stormy November night. Her father has bought a house sight unseen and they are shocked at the ramshackle building they see when they arrive. They are unable to stay in the home that night, so the driver drops them at the Amish neighbors. They are unprepared for Gabe Lapp in his brightly colored pajamas. Gabe is immediately taken with Bridget and her beautiful, bright green eyes. Bridget, though, is unprepared to date after a terrifying experience in Ohio even if the individual is charming and handsome. Gabe works in construction and offers his assistance to Hosea Behr, Bridget’s father. The house was recently used for the Halloween haunted house and Gave recommends it be demolished. The Behr’s will also need to build a barn. Gabe is not enjoying the icy Michigan weather and cannot wait until he returns home to Pinecraft, Florida. While Gabe is a hardworking and helpful man, he tends to get into trouble with his youthful exuberance (and when he is bored). But troubling times are ahead, and it could be just what is needed to help Gabe grow up and become the man God knows he can be. Bridget is attracted to Gabe, but can she overcome her reservations and her father’s objections (it seems someone told him about Gabe’s misadventures). The road to future is a bumpy one, but it is a fulfilling one. Join Gabe and Bridget on their journey in Firestorm.

I thought Firestorm was well-written and had a nice lively pace. I was drawn in right away with the sentence regarding Gabe’s colorful pajamas. Gabe is a delightful main character. He has a quirky personality with his openness to try new and different things. His character provides light-heartedness to the story (his antics had me snickering). Gabe has many good qualities and I liked seeing him mature. Bishop Miah Brunstetter was kindly man who guides his flock with a steady, calm spirit. There is plenty going on in Firestorm with the nightmare house, construction, miscommunication, Gabe’s various antics, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year and so much more. Christian elements are present throughout the story. Prayer and steadfast faith are important to lead a Christian life. The one thing we tend to forget is that we are not in control and things will happen in God’s timing (not when we want it to happen). Laura Hilton’s descriptions of the area helped me to visualize it especially the cold temperatures (which makes me glad I am in Florida). While snow can be beautiful, the cold temperatures can be deadly. Life is never easy as we see in Firestorm, but all things happen for a purpose. I look forward to the next installment in The Amish of Mackinac County series.

[Tina Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven't read the Amish genre because you think you can't relate to them, I'm sorry to tell you you are wrong. The Amish are just like us, humans. Human beings that go through life trials that includes, temptations, birth, loss, death, grief, marriage, teasing, financial struggles, health issues, from nature like floods, fires, and storms, and so much more.

Laura V. Hilton writes an action packed book that keeps you on the edge of your seat! Characters come alive! Scenes that place you right there in the moment. Emotions, thoughts and dialogues all pulls the reader in more through the turning of the pages. I know I wanted more of Gabe and Bridget's story. Can't wait for book two in the Amish of Mackinac County series.

Bridget Behr's dad uproots their Amish family from Ohio to an isolated community in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Their first night in the Upper Peninsula in a thunderstorm is a shocker about the property.
The Behr family finds themselves in the care of Gabriel Lapp. Gabe feels responsible for the family - especially the girl with green eyes.
Just when things are settling down and coming together, a devastating forest fire destroys both land and dreams for the Behr family. Decisions have to be made: rebuild or move again?

I received an ARC from the author and publisher. No money was exchanged. The only thing asked of me was an honest review. These are my words and my positive review.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

im so very sorry that I took so long to write this but I wanted this to be a good review BC I enjoyed this book so very much!!
This is by far, the best that Laura has ever written and now has become my favorite!!
I enjoyed this story because the story takes place in my most favorite place in the world!!
New characters and new friends to be made in this can't put down book
Be sure to not have anything to do around your house because you'll want to read straight through!! Its soooo very good!!!

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

A different kind of Amish story -- and I love that about Laura V. Hilton's books. Struggling to find a way to explain what exactly is different. The setting for starts -- Michigan's Upper Peninsula, an area I've had a secret fascination for ever since I read Colleen Coble's Rock Harbor series. The newly settled Amish community faces unique challenges in the remote northern location which adds interest to the story.

Plus, the author doesn't sugar-coat the Amish faith or lifestyle. Her characters are flawed, the families aren't perfect. There's brokenness and relationship issues and any number of negative behaviors in the face of adversity. But there's also the desire to do better, make amends, confess and repent and try again. And those journeys are what make this story so compelling.

Gabe is a major flirt with a devil-may-care attitude that pretty much guarantees trouble. He's got a chip on his shoulder that shows up in a defiant attitude at times, and makes him too quick to concede defeat. His brashness hides insecurities and this is very much a coming of age story for him.

Bridget has a tendency to withdraw, to throw up walls which make her seem unapproachable -- stuck up even. Their romance sizzles in fits and starts as they both send off mixed messages which adds to the confusion and angst. But when these two are 'on' they are so on. Toe-curling, swoonilicous, stick-my-head-a-snowbank kissing scenes which might just scorch your finger tips as you turn the pages!

A great cast of secondary characters adds so much spice to the mix. I'd be spitting mad one second and then succumbing to side-splitting laughter the next. And Bishop Miah might just be one of my favourite characters ever. A mix of wisdom and humour...with the patience of Job!

Firestorm is a spectacular start to Hilton's newest series -- The Amish of Mackinac County and I can't wait for more.

[Tiffany Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura V. Hilton has once again made me say, "This is my new favorite book by this author."
Firestorm grabbed me from page one, as the Behr family is uprooted from their home in Ohio because of someone stalking their daughter Bridget, to the Upper Peninsula of Maine. If this sudden move is not bad enough, they arrive in the middle of the night to their "new home", which was bought sight unseen by their dad, and it is an absolute disaster!
They are taken in by Gabe Lapp, who is also a new comer to the area from Florida, and a bit of a trouble maker, but none the less has his eyes set on Bridget Behr. As they all try to make a new life and home in this new place, one thing after another happens to test their physical strength and faith in God. Will they have the strength and faith to overcome? It will take every ounce of faith they can muster to survive what they are going to face.
This first book in The Amish Of Mackinac County, had me turning page after page as I laughed, held my breath, and felt the sorrow and pain of these characters as the story unfolded. This Amish love story, is so much more than a love story, it is full of real life struggles, hardships, and a test of faith and trust in the Lord.
I give this captivating book 5 stars!

I received an ARC of this book from the author and Whitaker House Publishing. I was not required to give a positive review. This is my honest opinion of this book.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fire Storm is this author's very best accomplishment to date! I became so deeply involved with Gabe's life that I found myself in tears several times. All of the characters in this book are real people in my mind. Described with such raw and primal depth and sensitivity, I melted emotionally. I will be reading this book again and again. My heart ached as one tragedy transcended to another.

I have been a fan of Amish fiction for many years, but I find that this author goes far beyond the norms of the genre, and expands her characters and action into unexplored territory. Written with passion and great sensitivity, this book will remain a lifelong favorite!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book with no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great start to a new series: The Amish of Mackinac County". I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. One of the things that I love about this author is how she writes the scenes. I loved how I felt like I was actually there. This book is action packed. I love the main characters: Bridget Behr and Gabriel Lapp. They are well written and readers can identify with them. Amish are humans just like us. With struggles and heart ache. This book moves at a comfortable pace.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.

[Crissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura asked me to read a copy of her book and that is always a welcome surprise to get you hands on a book before it is out.
I wasn't disappointed, I feel as if Laura goes out of her way to research the area and then give you a story that really makes you think. This book talked to me as it showed how we can't rely on ourselves and how easy that is to try and do.
Laura again made the characters come alive and feel like friends and family.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another captivating and emotional read by Laura V. Hilton with Firestorm. I always look forward to reading Hilton’s book and this one didn’t disappoint. Firestorm is the first one in the series set in Mackinac County, Michigan. This action packed story is filled with strong characters, vivid descriptive scenes, thoughts and dialogue that kept this reader from putting it down. Readers will appreciate the depth, wisdom and God’s unfailing love and greatness even during devastating times that Laura V. Hilton interlaced into her latest Amish fiction along with Amish proverbs and Biblical Scriptures.

Gabriel (Gabe) Lapp is awaken by the Behr family in the middle of the night when they arrived at the Zook’s home in the isolated area of the Upper Peninsula in Michigan, Gabe is taken by Bridget Behr’s green eyes and with his nicknames for girls, she became “green eyes”. The shock the family received upon their arrival was heart retching with a house that had been used by the local volunteer fire fighter’s as their haunted house a few weeks earlier. Hosea Behr and Gabe butted heads from the start, but Bishop Nehemiah asked Gabe to assist the family till the community could assist them with building a barn and decide what would be best for the uninhabited house. Gabe proved himself in finding the necessary items for the family but he failed to protect Bridget when they attended activities, which wasn’t always the normal activity of the Amish youth. The realism of their young lives and adventures, the family and community struggles, along with Gabe’s skills as a carpenter, and Bishop Nehemiah’s wisdom and Gabe’s dad arriving in the community Hosea’s perspective toward Gabe improved. When a fire devastated the community and vulnerability of lives loss I was in right in the midst of the action and pain, with the realistic elements of true to life loss of homes, belongings, lives, and natural surroundings. Will the Behr family, Gabe, Mr. Lapp and the community members be able to heal? This top notched Amish story has a beautiful message of finding an inner peace in the midst of tragic through God’s love, grace, mercy and letting go of anger from the past to start over with blessings of family members.

I received an ARC complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher, Whitaker House. I was not required to write a positive review but have expressed my honest thoughts. I’ll abide my time till the next book from Laura V. Hilton is released. She’s a favorite author and never fails to create a story that is not your normal Amish fiction but is filled with depth, realistic action, perseverance of characters and a wonderful faith message.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

When Hosea Behr thought he was making the right decision when he uprooted his family and moved his family to an isolated Amish community in Upper Peninsula of Michigan. But his troubles started when the house he purchased, sight unseen, was a house of horror.
Gabe Lapp had the shock of his life when he wakes up in the middle of the night to find an Amish family taking over the house he lived in with the Zooks. But he sure liked flirting with the daughter, Green eyes!
Firestorm is the best from Laura Hilton so far! Of course that’s what I say about each of her new books! I love that Ms. Hilton’s Amish stories have a different twist than other Amish stories. And I love that she always writes the Gospel into each of her stories, and it’s done in a neat way that’s not ‘preachy’ at all.
From the first page of Firestorm, I was just plain hooked! The books starts off when the Behr family arrives at their new house, after dark, and as Bridget says, ‘It’s a nacht-mare!’ The only thing good about this night was meeting the flirty guy in the lime green pajama pants. Maybe daylight would find the house in better condition, but it didn’t happen. And thanks to pajama pants man, who’s name is Gabe, he rounds up a huge tent and an RV for the family until something could be decided about the house. But as the story goes, nacht-mare after nacht-mare happens. Was moving really the right decision?
This awesome story is full of character I grew to love, with the exception of Hosea that is. He was a high tempered and manipulated man, one that couldn’t manipulate Gabe, though! And I loved Gabe and Bridget, and the chemistry between the two. And Gabe kept me first laughing and crying throughout the story! And Gabe’s dad the preacher and the Bishop were pleasant Godly men who succeeded in keeping Hosea in check.
If you haven’t read a Laura V. Hilton book, Firestorm is a great book to start with! I know you will find this story as captivating, intriguing and entertaining as I did! I received this book from the author and publisher to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Firestorm, the newest series from author Laura V. Hilton, we find ourselves in a small Amish town in the isolated Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The Behr family, along with daughter, Bridget, have uprooted themselves in Ohio and relocated sight unseen to their new home in Michigan. What they didn’t expect to find was the communities “haunted house” was their new home. Unable to live in the rundown residence, her father and oldest brother, must decide how to rebuild a home for their family.
Gabriel Lapp is a new resident of Michigan himself, but is counting the days until his father lets him return to sunny Florida. When Gabe is disturbed in the middle of the night, he doesn’t expect to find the Behr family seeking refuge from a thunderstorm. He immediately notices the girl with the dark green eyes, and knows that he has to help her and her family.
With the assistance of Gabe, the family is able to get tents and an RV to live in until they decide what to do about their home situation. Just as Bridget has caught Gabe’s eye, he has caught hers, but she can’t get over the past and let her heart learn to trust the overly flirtatious man next door.
Just as life starts to look up for the Gabe and the Behr family, a tragic forest fire swipes the county! Lives, homes and dreams are lost.
A great story about faith and trust!
It was interesting to read about Amish in an unknown settlement area. As always, Hilton does a wonderful job bringing her characters to life. I was easily swept away in Gabe and Bridget’s story and couldn’t put the book down!
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves Amish or Inspiration fiction.
I received a copy of from the author and Whitaker House in return for my honest review.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great read that isn’t just a mundane Amish Book. I love that Laura Hilton is more gritty and delves deeper into relationships and real life disasters and disappointments. Therefore you can identify with the characters heartbreaks and triumphs. This is the first book in a new series and I can’t wait for book two. I’m impressed with how the characters grow and develop in their faith and in how they deal with life in general. Not a fluffy read, but one that has you turning pages and not able to put down. The romance between Bridget and Gabe shows the vulnerability of young love. All in all this is a very enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Vicki Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura V. Hilton is one of the finest Amish writers I have had the pleasure of meeting and reading her books! They are a joy to read and never a dull moment!

Take this new one for instance Fire Storm!! It takes place in Upper Peninsula Michigan with Hosea Behr and his family moving to there new home bought sight unseen! They arrive on a terrible rainy night and there driver pulls up in front of their new home that turns out to be an uninhabitable wreck!(Get your hankies ready) The driver suggests they stay next door with the neighbor and sort things out the next day. He drops them off and tells them to just go on in cause the door ain’t locked. They sure weren’t in Ohio anymore!

This is where Gabe and Bridget’s story begins or so it seems. She doesn’t want anything to do with men and he is supposed to be going back to Florida just as soon as his dad will let him. Their story goes back and forth. They like each other and they don’t! Can’t seem to make up their minds. “Green Eyes” as he calls her finds him fascinating and he can’t seem to keep his mind off of “Green Eyes”! Always dreaming about her!

Gabe helps the Behrs out with just about anything he can. He even draws up the plans for their new house after he convinced Hosea he would be better off with a new one instead of remodeling that old haunted house!

Tents, RV’s, Volunteer firefighters, the polar plunge, ice skating, courting, Forrest fires, destruction and devastation, missing people, and more!

I was sent this book by Laura V. Hilton to read and review. I was not paid any money for doing so!

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A firestorm was brewing between Bridget and Gabriel. No matter how hard they fought their attraction to each other- it was GOD's plan for them to be together. Or was it?

Everytime Gabriel and Bridget ventured out, a catastrophe occurred. Shouldn't this be a warning?

Has anything ever happened to you where you realized how truly blessed you are? We need to start each day thanking GOD for all his blessings. GOD has blessed us with his presence. He is with us every step of the way.

Romantic, suspense, and intense describes this book.
I received this free to review.
About the Book
Title: FirestormFires Storm
Author: Laura Hilton
Genre: Christian Amish
Release Date: July, 2018
Bridget Behr and her family migrate from the bustling Amish community where she grew up in Ohio to the mostly unpopulated Upper Peninsula of Michigan after a stalker breaks into their home. While her father and brother try to find work in the area, the family is forced to reside in a borrowed RV until the house and barn are rebuilt. While Bridget is hoping for a fresh start, she’s afraid to trust anyone—even Gabriel, the overly-friendly Amish man who lives nearby. Bridget thinks he’s a flirt who serial dates and doesn’t even remember the girls’ names.
Due to not enough construction work in his Florida community to keep him out of trouble, Gabriel Lapp has been sent to Michigan to work. His father is desperate for his son to settle down. When the family walks into Gabe’s home in the middle of a thunderstorm and he discovers their circumstances, he offers to help with construction. For Gabe, the beautiful girl he teasingly calls “the recluse” once he discovers she doesn’t attend youth events, confuses him like none other.
As Gabriel and Bridget grow closer, they realize there is more to a person than meets the eye. Just as Bridget is finally settling into her new life, and perhaps finding love, tragedy strikes. Now Bridget and her family must decide if they should move to another Amish community, or dare to fight for the future they’d hoped for in Mackinac County.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author
Laura pictureLaura V. Hilton is an award-winning, sought-after author with over twenty Amish, contemporary, and historical romances. When she’s not writing, she reviews books for her blogs, and writes devotionals for blog posts for Seriously Write.
Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas. One son is in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is a pastor’s wife, and homeschools her two youngest children.
When she’s not writing, Laura enjoys reading, and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter, her favorite holiday is Christmas.

Guest Post from Laura Hilton
I read a series of books a year or so ago by another Amish author who had set her books in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. As a Michigan native, I was curious, and I researched, but found nothing about Upper Peninsula Amish except a notation that one had tried and failed. So I contacted the author. She told me that she’d never been there, and her research had all been hearsay, so with that lack of firsthand knowledge and no trip to the Upper Peninsula planned, no trip to see for myself would be possible. At least at that time.
Then God intervened. My son who is in the United States Coast Guard was stationed in the Upper Peninsula this past summer (2017.) He saw the Amish driving around in their buggies. And he felt like a stalker as he followed one to see where he went and drove through the area. He even sent pictures. (Shhhh.)
Yes, there are Amish in the Upper Peninsula – at least at the time this book was written.
Okay, as a Michigan native, I used some terms that may not be familiar to non-Michiganders. A Yooper is someone who lives in the Upper Peninsula. A Troll is someone from the Lower Peninsula. A pastie is kind of like a Hot Pocket, except it’s a meat pie made with root vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and rutabagas. They are so good. And the straits are the area of the Great Lakes connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
As for the wildfire, the earliest wildfire I could find any documentation on in the Upper Peninsula was in April. It is generally a snowy area — trust me. I lived near the Muskegon area and saw snow drifts in May. We sometimes had over six feet of snow on the ground at one time. So, to get the wildfire when I wanted/needed the wildfire I used artistic license. Yes, fires really happened in Michigan’s history. Just not in the month mentioned in the book.
firestorm 1
I am attaching a meme about Michigan seasons. We’ll call the fire set in “fool’s spring.” My son got married during the “third winter” this year. April 21 and there’s snow on the ground. He and his beautiful bride got married at a water fall (Tahquomenon Falls) very near where the story is set.
Firestorm 2

Thanks for reading Firestorm!!
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Giveaway
661efd24-7e0d-4a03-acf3-ceb92148d227
To celebrate her tour, Laura is giving away
Grand prize: Firefighter Puppet 9 (Melissa & Doug), Copies of Amish Firefighter and Firestorm by Laura Hilton.
First place prize of “I Love You to the Cross & Back” Mug (Gardenfire) & Firestorm by Laura Hilton!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/cf87/fires...

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish of Mackinac County by Laura V Hilton Fire Storm
What can I say but Wow another great book by Laura V Hilton. Right from the beginning this book pulls you in and holds your attention all the way through. Bridget Behr has recently moved with her family to the isolated Upper Peninsula of Michigan from Ohio, what a culture shock!
Gabe Lapp has made Michigan home for some time but can’t wait to be back to his beloved Florida sunshine.
What happens when you realize the home you purchased sight on seen is not fit it live in? Bridgett’s family seeks help from Gabe and in doing so one thing after another arise,
How will they every survive this foreign land away from everyone and everything they know and now they don’t even have a Proper home. Laura V Hilton has a way of making her characters realistic, fun loving, you are pulled into their story. This is another amazing book. I truly look Laura V Hilton’s books and I. Sure you will as will. Come walk down the Mackinaw county road you won’t regret it.

[Jackie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Did I read the same book as everyone else? This was pure Amish porno scantily clad with what may be the worst plot I have ever had the misfortune to read. I could say about a million things that were wrong with this book but to be respectful of your time I will try to pare this down while still warning you that YOU SHOULD NOT READ THIS BOOK.

1) As previously stated, this is Amish porno. Multiple lines/scenes throughout the book reference Bridget's curves, Gabe's muscular chest, her sitting on his lap, him removing her kapp and playing with her hair, etc. There are detailed descriptions of Gabe's and Bridget's inappropriate thoughts about each other. These scenes are all intermixed with phrases such as "tingling nerve endings" to describe the fiery passion of their lust - I mean, love? This physical attraction was the main plot point of the book and was a huge disappointment. Gabe's "flirtatious" nature was just gross to me. If he had any respect for Bridget or himself, he wouldn't go around talking about smooching and beyond just because he thinks it would be a good time.
2) Going off my first point, Gabe and Bridget "love each other" and "want to get married" because.....they can't have sex morally otherwise? They know NOTHING about each other, neither of them has a personality, and the plot does nothing to remedy this. Speaking of the plot,
3) WHAT a train wreck. Too-good-to-be-true timing, a stalker, hypothermia, ice-skating accidents, colon cancer, groin injuries, broken wrists, a fire - there is no need for all of this in ONE book. I was getting whiplash trying to keep up with these events which are only in this story because the author apparently does not know how to move a plot along without something serious happening.
4) Gabe didn't want to be with Agnes because....she's ugly, I guess. She was actually described as chunky and stuttering. WHY in books like these does the non-love interest who has been inserted only to cause drama HAVE to be ugly with at least one other un-admirable trait? Is it because the main character is too stupid to make a decision unless it's between a hot girl and some sort of swamp ogre? Why couldn't Agnes be pretty but not the girl for Gabe? Also, why did she get the shortest end of every stick? Gabe isn't interested in her, she's apparently unappealing, and to add insult to injury, her entire family died in that fire at the end of the book. Was that necessary? No, but nobody at all cares about Agnes and somebody had to die, so her family was chosen as the sacrificial lamb.
5) God wasn't mentioned in the book until He came down and saved Gabe because Gabe decided to start doing right when it was convenient for him. I guess if I had to choose between dying alone in a forest fire or praying, praying would be easier.
6) Hosea was a terrible character. His flip-flopping was supposedly to show a Christian change at the end, but really it was just to create drama in the plot and supposedly keep Gabe away even though there was no way the man wasn't going to end up with Bridget. It's not like he was actually going to give Agnes a chance !!!
7) Gabe's groin injury would have had me in stitches laughing if it hadn't been so stupid that it lowered my IQ to such a level that it took months of intensive therapy for me to even be able to read again. Seriously, WHAT was that whole scene? This hottie who is perfect in every other way can't stay up on ice skates? Then his injury is so serious that he has to use a wheel chair, but he still constantly thinks of doing the nasty with Bridget? I would not be able to take Gabe seriously if he wheeled himself over to me and insisted we do the freak. For anyone reading this who had any doubts, torn groin muscles are NOT a good injury to put in your story, especially when they were received in THE most ridiculous manner possible.

I guess that's it for now. This book made me so irrationally angry. I just can't believe it got published. And people LIKE it?

0/10 would rather end up in a forest fire

[Alex Jacobson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed "Firestorm" and I’ll tell you why and I will also include some things about this Amish Fiction that gave me pause. Overall I enjoyed the book and loved that it set me up for another book to come out and continue the story, I would totally continue to read, which does tell you I liked the book. I’d give the book four stars because of the few hangups that even now after I’ve completed the book I can recall. Almost like a stick in my craw.

The story itself had some fun elements to it that made it a quick and easy read. The characters were likeable and while it has the tell tale romance there were some fun bits that kept the story entertaining. I’ll be honest and tell you that the fact that it’s a contemporary setting paired with the Amish community is something I am familiar with. However, Hilton did some things I’m not quite as familiar with. One of these elements really kind of bothered me and one of the similar elements made the story better for me. Hilton used some words, lingo, that is modern but I just couldn’t envision Amish people using, or at least using without internal conviction or external reprimand. However, it is true with all the current worldly elements even Amish people face in our world… I mean think about the TLC, reality type, televisions shows about things like “Breaking Amish” or “Return to Amish” that maybe I’m off base here and it is as common as the book seems to make it. When Hilton had the main character Bridget use “hot” to describe a brand new love interest, had her father use “idiot” to insult Gabriel – the same love interest, and then used the term “sexy” later in the book I just couldn’t quite get past it, I found it distracting.

It is clear that Bridget has some beliefs that may have been explicitly taught or implicitly obtained in her Amish upbringing that when she faces adulthood and making her own choices she finds herself struggling, and feeling a bit lost. For example, she has some guilt when reading the Bible for herself, dislikes having decisions made on her behalf, and the level of care and love she feels like she is given by the men in her life leaves her feeling unknown or cared for. These all contribute to her worldview and experience which makes for an interesting internal struggle and intriguing story as she pursues Gabriel and he seems contradictory to all she knows. I thank Hilton for these undercurrents and it’s what made me keep reading.

It is clear that Bridget has some beliefs that may have been explicitly taught or implicitly obtained in her Amish upbringing that as she faces adulthood and making her own choices just don’t seem to sit well with her. Guilt when reading the Bible for herself, having decisions made on her behalf, and the level of care and love she feels like she is given by the men in her lives were all part of her worldview and experience that make for an interesting internal struggle and intriguing story as she pursues him and he seems different. I thank Hilton for these undercurrents and it’s what made me keep reading.

In the end I really did enjoy the book, would pass it off to another Amish Fiction lover, and honestly might even suggest it for someone who hasn’t read any Amish Fiction before especially if they had avoided it due to the unrealistic level of innocence in the community. I would also be intrigued to know more about this Amish community in Michigan that is just budding at the time of this story. Hilton did a great job of leaving me wanting more and also helping me enjoy an interesting piece of Amish history.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own. Thanks Celebrate Lit Blogging group!

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIRE STORM by Laura V. Hilton is the first book in the The Amish of Mackinac County series. It’s the story of the Behr family’s move from Ohio to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the kindling romance between Bridget Behr (Green Eyes) and Gabriel Lapp (Gabe).

Bridget’s family left Ohio to get away from a stalker who was brazen enough to even invade their home during the night. Hosea felt that since it was a church leader’s relative and won’t handle the situation properly, that moving was his only option to keep his family safe. However, buying land with a home sight unseen proved to be a very bad decision since the house was inhabitable.

Gabe was shipped off, with no explanation, to Michigan by his Dad after he had gotten mixed up the wrong sort of people. Even though he was able to get out of sticky situations, his reputation was tarnished and his thinking was still off kilter. In his new home, he found himself all alone feeling like no one cared and started doubting his faith. Gabe is hardworking and has no problem finding work and even becomes a volunteer fireman.

Gabriel wants fun and adventures. He sure wasn’t looking for a permanent relationship or a steady girl. But he’s immediately smitten with Green Eyes when her family shows up where he is staying late on the night of their arrival needing a place to stay. Bridget is determined not to date unfoundedly feeling that something she did had brought on the unwanted advances that caused their move from Ohio, but she can’t help but notice this man in the green pajama pants that welcomed them to stay the night.

Gabe is instrumental in finding the Behr family shelter, notifying the Bishop of their arrival so that a barn raising can come about and then helps with construction of their new home. This makes him around Bridget more and more which makes them both happy and miserable at the same time.

The relationship between Gabe and Bridget, but also between Gabe and Hosea and between Gabe and his Dad are heartwarming and will keep you turning the pages to see IF or HOW it’s going to work out. You can see Gabe maturing through the pages of the book – both in mind and faith.

Will Gabe’s thrill for adventure mean fun for everyone or will it get them into trouble or injured? Can Gabe chance Hosea’s opinion of him? After disaster strikes, will it mean Bridget leaving Michigan or will she stay?

Laura V. Hilton telling a faith bases story while at the same time showing that the Amish, like all people, are human. We are all less than perfect, struggle to make ends meet, find changes in life or starting over difficult, show compassion for our fellow man, and sometimes struggle to find faith in the face of adversity. Like Gabe, if we pray and keep our eyes upwards, through God all things are possible.

You will love FIRE STORM if you enjoy reading a great Amish story, swoon at a wonderful romance, and thrill to an exciting adventure that keeps you turning pages. Highly recommend FIRE STORM and I know that you will be grabbing the rest of the books in this series after you finish reading this one. Although part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone book.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firestorm
Laura V. Hilton

A humorous, yet insightful Amish adventure

Bridget’s daed had made a big mistake. In an attempt to get his daughters away from a creepy stalker, he purchased land and a house in Northern Michigan. Sight unseen. So the family ended up having to live in tents. In Michigan. In November!

What a book! I was laughing and then pondering and then swooning and then laughing again. And I kept marking lines to create quote images; far too many to use without being sued for plagiarism. Seriously, Gabe and Bridget were such a fun couple to read about. Also fun were the subtle plays on Bridget’s family name, Behr.

I was drawn in by Gabe’s flirtatious, cocky, arrogant and yet insecure ways. His behavior, a cry for acceptance and attention from his dad, was so painful and yet touching. I really loved the way that he still had a heart searching for a relationship with God; that he was willing to really talk to the bishop and the way that things ended up working out between Gabe and his daed.

Bridget’s dad’s temper was quite amazing, but not necessarily in a good way. He kept saying things he regretted later but had so much pride it was hard for him to apologize. I enjoyed seeing how God worked in his heart, especially when he was so angry with Noah. Again. And again.

It is interesting to realize how the Amish have such an appearance of holiness and a close relationship with God, but they often know so little about Him or even the Bible. The very fact that Bridget feared that she would get into trouble for even wanting to read the Bible was shocking.

It made me smile to find out where the quote I saved from Plain Everyday Heroes came from about calling the black lab Butterscotch. Yes, I read the books in the wrong order but it just may have made that even more fun doing it this way. I’m glad that Noah got his own story there. I might have to re-read it now despite having just read it. . .

One of the things that I enjoy about Laura V. Hilton’s Amish stories is the life that is in them. Maybe it is the other Amish stories I have read but it seems like most are very serious with the characters being very staid and proper. This author’s characters are playful, they have fits, they tease and have thoughts sometimes bordering on “improper” (yet totally clean) about those of the opposite gender. Like real people.

This review was originally posted on Among the Reads

I would like to thank Celebrate Lit for giving me this copy of the book. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never liked moving when I was young. It was nice to stay in one place and feel secure. I can't imagine how Bridget must have felt when her family moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It seemed almost deserted and oh my it was freezing cold there. The author does a great job of describing the terrain and the snow that fell constantly. It was going to be a new start for the family, but who buys a house unseen? To say that the house her father bought was scary is an understatement. I could picture the house falling down at any minute. It sure isn't a welcome start for the family.

Gabe is a very good character. He tries so hard to help Bridget and her family, but her father doesn't seem to like him or trust him. I loved the part where a tradition was fulfilled in the area. All I can say is brrrr. Unfortunately for Gabe, he makes a huge mistake with Bridget that causes friction between Gabe and her father. The relationship between Gabe and Bridget's father Hosea is very entertaining. It is so hard to convince someone you are a good person, when rumors have been spread about you that are untrue.

One of the subjects in the book is about pride. It can turn a person into one who is bitter. They become suspicious of others and can ruin relationships. I loved how the author handled the subject and showed us how people deal with it. It is so hard to say you are sorry sometimes, but walking around with a prideful spirit pushes people away. The relationship between Gabe and Bridget is complex and I loved reading how they each struggled with their feelings for each other.

The author talks about acceptance. I have always wanted the approval and acceptance from my parents. I never received it but this passage in the story really helps. "You need Him more than you need anyone else. Gott spreads around forgiveness and grace like you used to spread jelly on toast." We are free to spread as much jelly as we want on our toast, just like God covers us with His grace and forgiveness for as long as we need it. I really enjoyed the story and reading about Bridget's family as they try to overcome loss. It is a powerful book that reminds us to forgive quickly, be quick to lend a hand, and not to judge others.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion."

[Renee Knoblauch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firestorm is the first novel in The Amish of Mackinac County series. This is also the first time I have read anything from author Laura Hilton.

The story grabs your attention fairly quickly when the Berh’s meet their neighbor Gabe Lapp in his untraditional Amish pajamas. I was immediately drawn to Gabe’s delightful and fun character. His character brought in something different for the Amish genre. I read a lot of authors in this genre. A few things and saying stood out that I couldn’t imagine with the Amish. I’m not looking for complete genuine Amish stories and I’m okay with a few twist.
The first thing that draws me into a new author is the characters. I like stories where the characters are realistic and not shallow. All the characters are great. Bridgette and Gabe are the best.

The plot grabbed my attention also. It was interesting scenario with Bridget’s family selling their house and moving to a new community due to Bridget having a stalker. The firestorm! With all the fires going on now!

Bridget’s father buys a house without ever seeing it. It seems a bit drastic to do that. Regardless when they get to the house they see that it is beyond livable. The family ends up having to live in tents in November in Michigan! Laura does an excellent job in her description of the house and the community. Not to mention the frigid temperatures! The firestorm! With all the fires going on now!

Then you have the element of faith. Real flaws from pride, and wanted a closer relationship with God. The willingness to talk things out with someone despite the hard situation he had with his father.

I’m not one to give away spoilers because I dislike them myself.

I look forward to future books from Laura Hilton and I hope that there are more books in the Amish of Mackinac County series.

I received an ARC copy of this product

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just start by saying, "Wow!" This book was really wonderfully written and totally unexpected. There's just so much involved with the story that I don't know exactly where to begin.

Laura Hilton is an amazing author and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.

Fire Storm tells the story of Bridget Behr, the Behr Family and Gabriel Lapp. Recently, I found that I have Behr lineage in our family background so I was excited to see this name used. Though my family doesn't hail from Ohio or from Michigan, it's still a terrific name.

The story starts right out with the Behr's relocation to Michigan from an Amish Community in Ohio, which they truly loved. However, a stalker caused great issues for them there and they were forced to find a new home to escape. They weren't expecting to find a run-down mess of land though, which is exactly what they found upon arrival.

The family was forced to make do by living in a tent. Boy, can I relate to that?! You do what you must to survive!

Gabrielle Lapp isn't fond of the cold and was really looking forward to moving back to Florida where the temps were so much warmer. In come the Behr's, with their green-eyed girl though, and all the world whirls out of control. Gabrielle can't deny the attraction he feels even with the fires flaming all around them.

That's right - I said fire. There's a blazing forest fire burning out of control which no one expected. Will it cause all the hopes and dreams of these two families to go up in flames or will they find the strength to stay, despite the frigid temps and rebuild their lives? Firestorm will not disappoint to add fuel to your love of reading and bring warmth to your heart.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is quite possible that Laura V. Hilton could be my favorite author of Amish fiction. Although her characters are mostly Amish and her stories are set in Amish communities, I like how there is not so much emphasis on the rules and regulations according to the Ordnung. In Firestorm, a time or two Bridget wonders if certain expectations are the same as in her previous community and more than once Gabe is certain he will be reprimanded by the pastors. Yet overall, Hilton’s books are real life stories about everyday people who live and love and make mistakes just like you and me.

Firestorm is filled with unexpected problems from the very beginning when Bridget’s family is unpleasantly surprised by the condition of their new home that was purchased sight unseen. Fortunately the community rallies to help get things into shape but one accident after another slows their progress. The characters are vivid and so realistic. Several of them struggle with common human failings such as pride and low self-esteem but as they walk through difficulty and tragedy, the Lord sharpens and heals them. Despite all the difficulties and tragedy within its pages, Firestorm contains a good measure of humor that helps keep it from getting too dark.

I particularly liked the powerful scene during the fire when Gabe understood the true power of God, perhaps for the first time. This author’s books are the perfect blend of drama, romance and faith. If you haven’t read anything from Laura V. Hilton, please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Firestorm, the first volume of The Amish of Mackinac County series.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every time I read a book by Laura Hilton, I know it's going to be good. Not only does she write interesting, outside the box Amish stories, but she writes characters that you can easily connect to, and it's not hard to get swept up into their stories. There's not a lot of kissing scenes in your typical Amish fiction, but when Laura Hilton is around, you can be sure to have a fan nearby. To be honest, I like them included. Amish people do have passion - and it's nice to see it portrayed in Amish fiction! 

I have to say that this book had me laughing. The first part of the book where Bridget and her family are seeing their new house for the first time, both at night and during the day just had me giggling. Then the mix up with the address (you'll have to read to understand), I thought to myself, how does Laura come up with these crazy scenes? They are hilarious! And there is laughter throughout the book, which gave a nice tone to the book. It wasn't all sorrow, or having just character development. It was fun. It was interesting. It made me want to keep reading and not stop! That being said, there was some fantastic character growth in both Gabe and Bridget, both together and separately. They both had so much to overcome and in true Laura Hilton fashion, they are able to keep moving forward with some help from the Lord, even with the bumps in the road. 

Yes this novel offers excitement, action, fun, and some swooning, but it also offers a faith element that will really speak to you. I cannot wait to see what comes next in this already terrific series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firestorm is the first book written by Laura V. Hilton in her new series The Amish of Mackinac County. This book is set in the upper peninsula of Michigan. The author gives such amazing descriptions of the land and weather. When it was sleeting, snowing, or gale force winds I actually felt it. I was cold throughout the first couple of chapters. The storyline keeps building throughout the entire book and ends on an up note. I enjoyed this story very much.

The characters are amazing and with their descriptions I could actually picture them right next to me. I had several characters that I enjoyed. Bridget(Green Eyes) is a very insecure young Amish lady who has gone through a very life threatening event but this makes her stronger as the story intensifies. Gab, a young Amish man, has been transplanted from Florida and is really out of his element and is struggling to find himself. Hosea is the father of Bridget and comes from the old school Amish. He is very strong willed but loves his family and faith. These 3 characters are prominent throughout the story and they clash many times. Hosea has uprooted his family of 7 from Ohio to Michigan and has never seen the house be has purchased.This sets the tone of Hosea's personality. The author has done an amazing job creating all the characters to tell her story.

I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars because this story has meant my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to anyone who loves the Amish genre. I look forward to the next book to continue the story.

CONGRATULATIONS to Laura V. Hilton on writing another fantastic story for her readers to enjoy.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Talk about bad luck, if you believe in that sort of thing, (which I don’t) but this family, the Behr’s really did not have a lot going for them; except that had each other. Leaving their home state to keep his daughter safe from a stalker, Hosea Behr buys a house sight unseen in Michigan. I tell you, I was getting worried about this family and how things would work out when finally they come to their new home, a home that has caution tape all around it and was just used as a haunted house for Halloween.

Enter their temporary neighbor Gabriel Lapp who has a bit of reputation of being a bad boy. He wasn’t necessarily “bad” he just sometimes did not think through all of his schemes. One thing for sure, he certainly had a bright outlook on life. He was a bit rebellious but he did have a big heart. He was a Florida boy who longed for the southern sun, unfortunately he had father issues.

As soon as the Behr’s arrive, especially Bridget, Gabriel’s life gets more interesting and a lot more complicated. This was a story of a family trying to get back on their feet after some devastating circumstances and learning that pride can certainly make you fall all over again. I learned a bit about Michigan and more about the Amish culture that I had previously been unaware of.

I am not the biggest fan of Amish fiction, but in author Hilton’s capable hands Amish fiction becomes most interesting and quite an adventure.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB

When Bridget Behr and her family migrate from a bustling Amish community in Ohio to the remote and isolated Upper Peninsula of Michigan, they're met with an ugly surprise: the house they had bought sight unseen is an uninhabitable wreck. While her father and brother try to find work in the area, the family is forced to lime in tents until the house and barn are rebuilt. Bridget can't shake the guilt that it was her fault her family moved---and is too afraid to trust anyone, especially the flirtatious, overly-friendly Amish man who lives next door.

Gabriel Lapp has made Michigan his home out of necessity, but can't wait to move back to Florida with its sunshine and warmer temperatures. But when Bridget's family seeks refuge with Gabe during a fierce thunderstorm, he can't help but feel a tug of responsibility for them---especially the girl with the dark green eyes.

Just as Bridget is finally settling into friendship, a new life, and maybe even love, a devastating forest fire ravages the county, destroying both land and the Behr's dreams. Now Bridget and her family must decide: will they leave behind the ashes and start anew in another Amish community? Or will they dare to fight for the future they'd hoped for in Mackinac County?



MY REVIEW

Yet another good start to a series by Laura. You will find this book hard to put down as there always seems to be some kind of small conflict, be it large or small, between two people or within their own minds, kind of like some people go through on a daily basis, just another day in the life of . . .

An enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to "The Amish Candymaker" as the series continues.