A Simple Christmas

Simple Gifts #3

by Charlotte Hubbard

"Hubbard writes Amish stories with style and grace."
--RT Book Reviews

The rustic beauty of a country Christmas fills the Simple Gifts crafts shop, while the Amish residents of Willow Ridge pull together in uncertain times--and in the face of an unexpected homecoming.

Nora Hooley's shop is abuzz with preparations for the holiday open house, and Rosalyn Riehl is handcrafting wreaths from evergreen boughs, pinecones, and other natural materials. The work is a welcome diversion for the only unmarried daughter of Cornelius Riehl: her gruff dat has been receiving envelopes marked Past Due, leaving dutiful Rosalyn to manage the household's inexplicably shrinking budget. Then another distraction swaggers into Simple Gifts--blue-jeaned and leather-jacketed, with a reputation that precedes him.

Marcus Hooley hightailed it to Willow Ridge on a wing and a prayer--not that he's the praying type. He rejected his Amish roots long ago. But behind the bad-boy attitude is a gifted horse trainer who's counting on some
bent-but-not-broken family ties to throw him a lifeline. He can't erase his past, but a sparking attraction with strong, spirited Rosalyn holds the promise of a second chance . . . and of shedding light on shadowy secrets to build a bright tomorrow.

Praise for A Simple Vow

"Charlotte Hubbard has a way of writing that draws you into the story from beginning to end."
--Romance Junkies

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

304 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published September 25, 2018

About the author

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian Charlotte Hubbard (a.k.a. Naomi King) writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Seasons of the Heart series. Like her heroine, Miriam Lantz, Charlotte considers it her personal mission to feed people—to share hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and food preservation are hallmarks of her lifestyle, and the foundation of her earlier Angels of Mercy series. She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Charlotte now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Hubbard takes her time introducing you to each of the characters and their problems and how they are feeling. I immediately felt as if I knew them all and was right there at the kitchen table hashing things out and praying. In no time, I was totally sucked in to their lives and the issues they were dealing with. The plot is very interesting and had me turning the pages late into the night. Be prepared not to do anything else once you start reading this well written and hopeful tale. I found myself thinking about all of these wonderful characters long after I finished reading A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS.

There’s no place like Willow Ridge at Christmas time! Charlotte Hubbard takes readers back to the small Missouri town and its mix of Englisch, Amish, and Mennonite residents in A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS. Nora Hooley is busy getting her Simple Gifts shop ready for her holiday open house and working with the Riehl sisters to stock the handmade items they make to sell in the shop. Roslyn Riehl has her heart set on Marcus Hooley but Marcus has strayed from the Amish path. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to many more from Charlotte Hubbard.

Charlotte Hubbard is now on my author radar and she will have me running to every book she releases and A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS is exactly why. When it was over, I wanted to keep reading and stay in the character’s business. I was giggling, laughing out loud and even holding back tears as I watched each of the characters grow. Charlotte Hubbard pulls you right in to all of their lives and once you start, you won’t be able to put this wonderful story down.

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

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas by Charlotte Hubbard is the third book in the Simple Gifts series. Nora Hooley’s shop, Simple Gifts is full of beautiful handcrafted Amish items including wreaths made by Rosalyn Riehl. Rosalyn works in the shop part-time as well happy to escape from her crotchety father. Rosalyn is the last unmarried daughter of clockmaker, Cornelius Riehl. They have been receiving bills with Past Due on them and Cornelius is providing less money for household expenses including food. Cornelius spends a great deal of time locked away in his workshop and his attitude, which has never been cordial, has gotten worse of late. Rosalyn is thankful her sister and her husband are still living with them.

Marcus Hooley, a horse trainer, arrives in town for his new job with Wyatt McKenzie. Marcus’ wild ways have gotten him fired from his last three jobs despite his excellent skills and he is worried that someone is following him to Willow Ridge. Marcus was raised Amish, but he jumped the fence and has been enjoying the Englisch lifestyle. Despite his unorthodox arrival at his farm, Wyatt hires Marcus with certain conditions. This is Marcus’ last chance and he knows it. When Marcus meets Rosalyn, he is attracted to the lovely Amish maidel. Spending time with Rosalyn and the residents of Willow Ridge, makes Marcus rethink his life choices. Marcus beings to notice some oddities and may be able to shed some light on hidden secrets.

A Simple Christmas is a lovely, heartwarming Amish story. I thought it was well-written with steady pacing. It is an engaging novel that captured my attention right away and held it until the end. There is a complex plot involving Cornelius with unexpected twists along the way. I was eager to find out what secrets Cornelius has been keeping from his family and the town. Cornelius is the type of character that readers will dislike (just like we are supposed to). Rosalyn is a caring, thoughtful woman with a good heart. Marcus was the perfect partner for Rosalyn. It was nice to see him evolve. Charlotte Hubbard creates wonderful characters, and I love the town of Willow Ridge (I want to live there). Such a charming small town with thoughtful residents. It was nice to spend more time with Wyatt and Rebecca. Readers will be happy with the developments in their relationship. A Simple Christmas is not a standalone novel. You need to read the books in the Simple Gifts series in order as each book builds upon the previous one. I am giving A Simple Christmas 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). While the romance is predictable, is it sweet and romantic. One of the main Christian themes is putting our worries in God’s hands and let Him handle it. A Simple Christmas is an uplifting novel that will warm your heart and have you humming Christmas carols.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte has once again created a novel that kept me engrossed from beginning to end!! Never, has this author disappointed me with her creative writing style, and her ability to involve readers immediately into the lives of the dear folks of Willow Ridge, some of whom we have already encountered in the previous two books of the Simple Gifts Series, "A Simple Vow" and "A Simple
Wish".

Rosalyn is a twenty eight year old single Amish woman who has convinced herself that she will likely never get the chance to marry and have a family. After her mother passed away, her father experienced a severe period of grief that seemed to change his whole personality and desire to stay true to the Amish faith, although he tended to do a satisfactory job of pretending to do so. He led a life that was very different from the faith of Plain People , while giving a false impression to the community. Difficult family issues were dealt with that we don't imagine taking place in an Amish home. I quickly became totally one with Rosalyn, feeling her every desire, hurt and challenge. The "bad boy" enters the story with a bang! Marcus was a rebellious man who had totally rejected his Amish roots and become a true Englischer. I grew to love him as he developed in his relationships and faith. These characters are so well described that identifying with them is not an option!

The plot was full of unexpected twists and turns. Just when I thought I had the full understanding of what was going to happen, there would be another surprising block in life's journey. Charlotte Hubbard has succeeded in writing a book that focuses on the Plain Community experiencing challenges that we have never imagined. She does this with empathy and understanding.

DEFINITELY a five star book!! I highly recommend to all fans of the Amish genre. Those who have never enjoyed this genre would be impressed. It is a novel that differs from the norm in Amish fiction. Now, I am eagerly awaiting the next book by this fabulous author!

I received an advanced copy of this book. The opinions and thoughts expressed are honest and my own.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's no place like Willow Ridge at Christmas time! Charlotte Hubbard takes readers back to the small Missouri town and its mix of Englisch, Mennonite, and Amish residents. There's never a dull moment in this small town and Christmas coming just adds to the hustle and bustle.

As usual, it took me a bit of time to get into the story. I'm not sure what it is about Hubbard's books but it takes me a good 40-50 pages to get into the story and get all the characters sorted out. But once that happens I find myself devouring the story. And that was just the case with this book. The story was interesting and centers on Rosalyn, the eldest of the Riehl sisters and the only unmarried one. There is also the continuation of the storyline involving Cornelius Riehl and the secrets he is keeping from the community. I enjoyed this storyline even though I didn't like Cornelius and thought him a jerk. (My apologies to the author for not liking him but she did a wonderful job in creating a character I despised.


I really liked Rosalyn and felt sorry for her because she had to deal with her father on a daily basis but loved the sense of family and how her younger sisters looked out for her and supported her. I also liked Marcus and how he changed throughout the story. I thought his and Rosalyn's friendship was well-written and a bit swoon-worthy at times.

Fans of Amish fiction will surely enjoy this story. Even though it's the third installment in the series it can be read as a standalone. I do, however, recommend reading the other two books first so you will have a complete understanding of the "Cornelius storyline". I would love to see more books about these characters and be able to catch up with their lives. Happy reading!!!

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

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of this authors work for many years and am always delighted to read any of her books but since I’ve grown fond of her characters in Willow Ridge, I was especially happy to revisit them and find out what is going on in their lives. Well, there is quite a lot going on in their lives.

Nora Hooley is busy getting her Simple Gifts shop ready for her holiday open house and working with the Riehl sisters to stock the handmade items they make to sell in the shop. I would totally frequent that shop if it existed just to hear the conversations, to enjoy the decorated sugar cookies, spiced cider and purchase the handmade Amish goods. As usual and unfortunately Cornelius Riehl continues to be a fly in the ointment. He has been one of the most maddening characters in this series. He’s a selfish man, a really bad father and a pretty poor choice for a deacon. Having said that, he adds to both my enjoyment and anger in this storyline and I’ve been waiting for him to get his comeuppance.

I liked that Rosalyn gets more of her story told this time and I have to say that I felt so sorry for her being the older and unmarried sister and the one that’s more controlled by her father. When Marcus Hooley showed up in Willow Ridge, I didn’t like him at first. I thought he was rude and too full of himself but as the story progressed, I started to grow fond of him. As did Rosalyn which was the perfect and fun plot twist that made this book so much fun to read!

I’m always eager to see what’s on the menu and who will be popping in at the Grill N Skillet which is one of my favorite places of business in the community. That’s where I’ve met some of my favorite characters and watched how their lives have changed. There have been many changes in the community as the Amish, Mennonite and English continue to grow closer and work together to make better and prosperous lives for themselves and to make Willow Ridge a great place to live
.
I don’t like to admit this but as the story unfolded and we find out why Cornelius behaved the way he did, I felt a tiny bit sorry for him and understood his bad behavior. I love how Ms. Hubbard mixes both good and bad characters and explains their actions in the end.
If you are a reader of Amish fiction you will definitely want to read this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Hubbard has done it again, kept me up late and loving this sweet read!
We are updated on some of the folks from past reads, but it is a stand-alone book, I just love being with these folks, and lessons can be learned.
A page-turner for sure, and when I was finished I wanted to keep right on reading, now if I could find a way to move into a book?
We also see first-hand how some way ward individuals can and do turn their lives around, but others, well, you need to pick up this book!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hubbard sucks you in to the story from the very beginning.
I love her simple way to bring the Amish to you in so many ways.
She is a storyteller like no other.
Are you ready for a Christmas book that you can't put down?
You are going to really enjoy this one.
4 stars and highly recommend.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas by Charlotte Hubbard is the third book in the Simple Gifts series. This is the first one I read and had no trouble loving this story without reading the first two. Nora Hooley’s shop, Simple Gifts, is full of beautiful handcrafted Amish items including wreaths made by Rosalyn Riehl. Rosalyn works in the shop part-time, happy to escape from her miserable father. Rosalyn is the last unmarried daughter of clockmaker, Cornelius Riehl. There is suddenly a problem with money in the house, past due notices, bills not being paid and no money for groceries. Cornelius has been having problems since the death of his wife and he expects Rosalyn to take care of him. When Marcus Hooley, a horse trainer, shows up at the shop when he arrives in town, Rosalyn has feelings for this rude and handsome young man. He has been hired to work for Wyatt McKenzie. He was recommend by his cousins, but Marcus’ wild ways have gotten him fired from his last three jobs. He is hoping he will get a chance to show what he can do, but does not want to get too involved in the Plain life. Wyatt hires Marcus with certain conditions. This is Marcus’ last chance and he knows it. As he makes himself comfortable in Willow Ridge, Marcus becomes attracted to Rosalyn. There are secrets being kept about something her father has done and is supposed to confess, but his confession does not happen. He becomes more abusive to Rosalyn and is not happy when he realizes there is an attraction between Marcus and his daughter. Marcus has questions about what Cornelius is doing, and he wants to find out so he can share it with Rosalyn.

A Simple Christmas is a lovely, heartwarming Christmas and Amish story. It is an engaging novel that captured my attention from the start. It was well paced and I read it in one day. There are several twists involving Cornelius and I was eager to find out what secrets he has been keeping. I did not like Cornelius and I could not even pity him once his secrets finally came out. Rosalyn is a caring woman with a good heart, who finds it difficult to not be the dutiful daughter she has been taught to be all her life. Marcus was a wonderful character and it was great to see his growth as the story evolved. I enjoyed the setting of Willow Creek. The Amish businesses, the tourists, family and friends all make it seem like a great place to live, Amish and Englisch. One of the main Christian themes of putting our worries in God’s hands and trusting Him to handle it, is central to the story. I enjoyed A Simple Christmas and will definitely go back and read the first two in this series. The publisher, Kensington Books, generously provided me with a copy of this book. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.

[Kav · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas is anything but as this prodigal son story morphs into so much more. Plenty of angst and drama and complications galore. I wasn't enamored with Marcus in the beginning. He's pretty brash and intolerable but it isn't long before the good folk of Willow Ridge work some Christmas magic on him -- along with some much needed tough love! And the lure of Rosalyn Riehl goes a long way towards smoothing some of Marcus's rough edges. This is the kind of love story that pulls at your heartstrings and surprises a reader with unexpected twists and turns.

A Simple Christmas is the third book in the Simple Gifts series and I think it's best if you read the books in order. I didn't, and while I enjoyed the story, there were times I floundered a bit as a few plot points have been carried over from previous books. Plus, there's an extensive list of secondary characters to get acquainted with all at once. I still enjoyed the read though --- a sweet seasonal love story guaranteed to deliver some holiday cheer.

[Connie Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy Amish Fiction then a must read is the Simple Gifts series by Charlotte Hubbard. She brings characters to life. In this wonderful Christmas story you follow the Riehl family's daughter Rosalyn and her deep Amish faith. She has her heart set on Marcus Hooley but Marcus has strayed from the Amish path. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to many more from Charlotte Hubbard. I hope there are more Simple Gifts to enjoy. Thank you Charlotte Hubbard for sharing your gift of Amish Fiction.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hubbard has a way to bring her characters to life even with their flaws. This is Rosalyn Riehl’s story, the last daughter of Deacon Cornelius Riehl in Willow Ridge. There’s so much involved at Christmas time in this Amish community with the deceitfulness of their deacon. Readers will want to allow plenty of time to sit and read to see if Marcus Hooley will return to his Amish roots and what will become of Cornelius at the most wonderful time of the year.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas is the third installment from the Simple Gifts series. I enjoyed this sweet story. I give 4 stars.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! Great story!! Read a few of this author's books!! Will read more of her books!!

[Carole Jarvis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas is an uplifting story of faith, family, and community. It's a story of repentance, grace, and second chances. Hubbard's writing flows easily and there's good depth in the narrative.

I didn't care much for Marcus at first, and certainly didn't see how such an unlikely match could ever work out. But that's where the mysterious ways of God come in. I especially liked Wyatt and the way he let his poor behavior as a young adult affect his belief in and offer of grace to Marcus. Although this story can stand alone, I missed a lot of character development by not having read the first two books.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas is the third book written by Charlotte Hubbard in her amazing series Simple Gifts. As with the first two books the author involves her readers instantly in the lives of Willow Ridge residents. I was drawn back into the characters lives with no hesitation. The author's writing style creates wonderful characters and visions of Willow Ridge for her readers. The cover of this book is a great visual aid so we can have a glimpse as to the appearance of Rosalyn Riehl and the festive wreaths that she hand crafts. The storyline flows very smoothly and creates an amazing story to enjoy at anytime of year. As I started to read this story I could actually recall all the events and characters from the previous books.

The characters are well thought out and fit into this story with ease. I enjoyed getting to know Rosalyn and her story. Although Amish women are taught to respect their father's I found it very enlightening when Rosalyn went against her father's wishes and continued to work for Nora at her consignment shop. A new character was introduced immediately into the story and he really turns Willow Ridges residents into a tailspin. The author has really out done herself when she created this English bad boy. He makes his first appearance in Nora's store and really knocks the wind out of Rosalyn not only with his good looks but she is stunned by him running off at the mouth. This, however, intrigues Rosalyn and she finds herself dreaming of seeing him again. Marcus Hooley will definitely catch your attention and keep it throughout the entire book. But let's not forget Deacon Cornelius Riehl. He is back and reeking havoc not only on his own household but the community as well. You will be shocked when his indiscretions are revealed. This heartwarming story made me yearn for all the feelings of the holiday season. The author left nothing to the imagination in this wonderful story.

I did receive an advanced readers copy of this amazing story from Charlotte Hubbard. I was never approached or encouraged to post a favorable review by anyone. I have rated this fantastic story with five stars because the author was able to grab my attention on page one and keep my attention to the end. I highly recommend this heartwarming story to all readers regardless of their preferred genre. There is love, family, second chances, mystery, and faith all wound together in this story.

Congratulations to Charlotte Hubbard for writing this fantastic story for her readers. Charlotte has once again created a story that demonstrates her amazing writing talent.

[M.J. Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each year during Advent, I take a break from my usual reading to enjoy books specifically about Christmas. This year I didn't read as many as usual, and the ones I did read were much gentler. This was an intentional decision because, like many other people, I find that virtual meetings--even social activities--take more organizing, more preparation, and are more tiring. Having said all that, I will say the four books I did read, although not the best literature, comprised a tonic for my taxed soul. All four were free "bonus books" from electronic sources.

The first was "A Simple Christmas". I didn't realize when I started the book that it is the third of a trilogy. The author does a fairly good job of establishing the characters in a way that I don't think would be boring for those who had read the first two books, but I found the context to be sketchy.

It is a typical story of its genre, Amish Romance, but there are some unique features. It takes place in a recently established community that is more tolerant than most old order communities. In fact, many of the characters seem to have backgrounds that have resulted in them being given up as lost in their communities of origin. Although a strict community, forgiveness is at its core.

The book has two plot foci. The first is the romance between Rosalyn and Marcus. She is the daughter of a mean father, but she is much loved by her sisters and extended family. Her greatest fear is being an "old maid" and having to live with her father indefinitely.

Marcus is a new resident of the community. He never returned to his community of origin following his Rumspringa, and he has engaged in some credit card theft and fraud and is trying to clean up his life working as a trainer for a local non-Amish horse farmer. The last thing he wants is to return to the old order life.

The second storyline is about Rosalyn's mean father, (did I mention he was mean?) disliked by and in debt to most of the community, and the secret he is hiding. There are a few surprises as his activities become revealed.

It is definitely a book of a specific genre. It is well written and takes a few twists and turns, so it is an enjoyable read for those who like this genre.

[Betsy Cypress · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book with my own money and did not receive a free copy.
I loved this book! After reading the first two books in this series, I pre-ordered the third and final book months ago. It did not disappoint - except it made me wish there were more books coming in the series! I love the characters and the atmosphere. It is an idealist community, yet they have their troubles and sin and heartaches. It seems that the author is weaving in more and more Scripture, prayers, and thoughts about God as she writes more of these books. That is important to me as I believe it gives a better picture of a true, strong Christian. Faith is part of everything and everything hinges on God.
What I didn’t care for - words like “crap” and most especially taking Hod’s name in vain. That really was unnecessary. I understand the author is trying to show what kind of person the character was and to eventually show change in the individual’s heart, mind, and soul - but it could have been done without blaspheme. Perhaps that was the choice of the editor, not the author. Hopefully that won’t happen in any future books.
If it hadn’t been fir that, I would’ve given 5 stars. It really was a beautiful read and reminds us of what is truly important - that a simple Christmas can be a beautiful Christmas of worship and enjoying family. ❤️🎄
P.S. I also ended up baking quite a bit in the past few days as I was inspired by the book. Zucchini bread muffins, chocolate chip banana bread, apple crisp, and cinnamon muffins. We have a family of 9, so they had no trouble eating these items quickly!

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

It's Christmas in Willow Ridge! Rosalyn is the only daughter left to take care of her father, Cornelius, and that is a job unto itself. To get away a few hours several days a week she has started working in Nora's shop and selling her homemade wreaths. It also allows her to buy groceries and items for the house when needed since her dad has been receiving bills marked past due. While working one day, Amish bad boy, Marcus walks in and turns Rosalyn's life upside down. She knows he is trouble but her heart thinks differently. Will Marcus be able to heal Rosalyn's heart with his love when the unthinkable happens to her father and family?

A Simple Christmas is book 3 in the Simple Gifts series. For fans of Amish fiction, this is a must read series. It is a little edgy with some of their beliefs but it is a good edgy in my opinion. I think it shows there are Amish sects out there that are relaxing some beliefs to let them be sustainable in an ever-changing world that is becoming more and more dependent on technology. This community still believes in living in a simple world but understands it needs the English and the ability to communicate with them. Cells phones and computers can be a wonderful addition to a business but it does come with evils that can lead you far away. Your faith must be strong to not go down those dangerous paths. Just ask Cornelius.

Cornelius has always ruled with an iron fist but more so since his wife died and he moved his family to Willow Ridge. As the years go by he finds himself living a double life. A life that will eventually lead to his ruin. He thinks he can strong arm Rosalyn into staying and taking care of him but he does see that he is pushing her further and further away.

Rosalyn believes deep in her heart that she will always be a "maidel" the rest of her life and she is fine with that. What she is not fine with is taking care of her ungrateful father. She finds he is making her life more and more unbearable. If not for her job in Nora's store, I have no idea how Rosalyn would have survived.

Each book in this series can be read as a stand-alone. You will find yourself loving the characters as much as I do. I dare you!

I received a complimentary copy from Kensington through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

[Lucy Nix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Continuation of Seasons of the Heart

I started reading Charlotte Hubbard's series Seasons of the Heart a few months ago, I have read the complete set including the Simple Gifts and her novellas in other Christmas books. I have come to love all her characters, they are like family. The inspiration and kindness found within the Willow Ridge community will leave you wishing you could become a member of such a community.
Charlotte Hubbard's writing style, her characters, and locations will draw you in and you will find yourself wanting to read more of her books. I hope she will continue writing about the Willow Ridge Community and the characters I've come to love. I have lost myself for many hours of entertainment over the past few months while obtaining the Seasons of the Heart Series and her other books that pertain to Willow Ridge, thru her characters daily struggles, their belief in God and living their Old Order Amish lifestyles they come together as a community in showing Love, compassion, and forgiveness of others sins. This book ties together the loose ends of the first two in the series, it explains lots of the twists from the first two and actually leaves openings for more books to follow. I highly recommend reading all of Charlotte Hubbard's books!!!

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely tale of hope, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
A Simple Christmas is book three of Charlotte Hubbard’s Simple Gifts series. We travel back to Willow Ridge and Rosalyn Riehl, the oldest of the Riehl sisters and the only one left unmarried. Rosalyn loves her job at Nora Hooley’s shop not only because she gets to work on her crafts and be around others but because she can be free from her father’s watchful eye and sour temper.
Marcus Hooley has finally showed up looking for a job as a horse trainer that Wyatt has offered him weeks ago. He has rejected his Amish roots and now has a reputation that far precedes him. He is quickly intrigued with Rosalyn and her father’s shady secrets. What he doesn’t know is that his past may be about to catch up with him.
I really liked the previous books in this series and recommend that the reader start from the beginning to see the full story, but it could be read on its own. Hubbard did a terrific job telling Rosalyn’s story and as always her writing draws the reader into Willow Ridge.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from netgalley.com and Kensington Books in return for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Simple Christmas by Charlotte Hubbard is a sweet Amish tale. There is plenty of trouble, intrigue, and emotion to keep the pages turning. A person runs from his  life only to head straight into another mess. Only this one leads his heart  into a bright future. But until he figures out his path, a lot of mischief and sadness follow him everywhere. Another young person, is dealing issues with her father. A secret that is eating up the family and soon tears them apart. Meeting each other, leads them to hope...and maybe, happiness. Charlotte Hubbard brings a warm heartfelt story to life. Her characters are open and inviting. It is easy to get lost within their journey. Themes such as forgiveness, family, and faith is inserted into this book. I am in love with the novel. Perfect, clean, and inspiring...to read. Overall, I recommend to all Christian readers. This Amish tale is must read. 

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

[Pam Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her Simple Gifts books Charlotte Hubbard has told the sometimes complicated stories of the Riehl sisters, their secretive deacon father, and other residents of the fictional town of Willow Ridge, Missouri. The stories have included love, mystery, deceit, and heartache -- among a number of other elements. A Simple Christmas ties together the loose ends from the previous books, answering questions that were woven into those stories.

This is one of my favorite of Charlotte Hubbard's books. The characters are full of life, and the story moves at the perfect pace to keep things very interesting. Fans of good Amish fiction should enjoy this story, a great way to begin reading your way into the Christmas season.

A Simple Christmas would best be enjoyed following the previous books in the series -- A Simple Vow and A Simple Wish.

Thanks to the author for providing a copy of the book. I am happy to share my own thoughts in this review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed visiting with all the characters around Willow Ridge again in this Simple Gifts series Book 3. As the weather cools and the holidays approach, a new guy moves to the community—Marcus Hooley, a cousin to some of the others. He’s an accomplished horse trainer, but ready to escape his Amish roots. Watching his and Rosalyn Riehl’s struggles and growth add to the enjoyment of this compelling story. The books are best read in order since they have continuing characters and story lines. It seems Charlotte Hubbard’s novels usually contain an unsavory character, and, sad to say, often an Amish church leader. Can Cornelius Riehl be redeemed or will he continue to make himself and his family miserable? As the tale progresses, readers have opportunity to consider their own lives and motives, prompted by the events unfolding on the page. Thanks to the author for an advance review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Tammy Bernadt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was not aware of the series to this book. I really enjoyed reading this book to the beginning to the end. The cover has caught my eye. I have read some of the books this Author had written and I was very glad I pick up to read. I really like the Authors novels that I have read.

I love the characters in this book, but one. The father. What he has done completely upset me what he has done to his daughters. The Author had made these Daughter awesome how they have handle their father and the secret what he has done wrong. He has no caring heart at all :(. Very happy how all Amish handle what the father has done. Wow Auction and all that gave money nice touch.
Charlotte Hubbard loved this Novel.
I believe I will pick up the first and second books. Sometimes I end up reading a last novel book then realize there is books before it lol. Makes a change in my reading. I find myself liking that lol.

I am not good writing review at all.

You can read this alone.

[DJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is such a great series!

Rosalyn Riehl is overjoyed that her sister Loretta and new brother-in-law Drew is continuing to live with her and her dat. Rosalyn knows how difficult it is for them, but her life would be so much worse without their help.

In the meantime, her dat seems to be getting worse, and no one knowing what to do — or what he’s doing. So a distraction, in the form of one Marcus Hooley, might be just the best thing for her.

Marcus is trying to clean up his act, but his attraction to Rosalyn just won’t go away. And trouble seems to have followed him to Willow Ridge. Who’s following him? And what do they want from him?

This sequel tied up the loose ends found in the series perfectly… I knew something weird was going on, but I had no idea just how bad it was! If you’ve been reading the series with me, don’t miss this one. It’s a page-turner, for sure and for certain!

Happy Reading!!!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Hubbard is one of my favorite Authors. her Amish stories are just so great. They are filled with love, family, true feelings, struggle and so much more. A Simple Christmas is no different. It is the 3rd book in the Simple Gifts Series, and I believe it is the last. Each of the books features one of the Riehl sisters. This book is the oldest sister Rosalyn's story.

Rosalyn is 28 and has never been in love much less married. She has resigned herself to living with and caring for her Father. That is until Marcus Hooley rolls into town.

Marcus Hooley shows up in Willow Ridge all cocky and rude, as a horse trainer, he feels like he has stepped back in time. I mean their isn't even a gas station in this town. Marcus was born into the Amish faith but walked away years ago for the English life. But when he lays eyes on Rosalyn and meets people in this town maybe he has been given a second chance on life.

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rosalyn at twenty eight, feeling like the weather, crazy and mixed up. Wondered what her Dad is doing,the past due bills that come to the house.
He is also a deacon, and doesn’t like that she works for a woman in town, and not married.
Marcus was back, wasn’t much on the outside for training horses, especially when he has been fired from the last three jobs. He is not truthful and lands into trouble here. Meeting Rosalyn, and the Old Order community which he turned against when he went with the English.
Finding out what her father was doing. His ways and with woman, give him the title of “bad” and her father disapproves.Could there be any chance for Rosalyn and Marcus. This was book 3 and can be read alone. Given ARC by Net Galley and Kensington for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.

[Lisa Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading Charlotte's books. Roslyn and Marcus are both trying to figure out their lives and where they fit. Roslyn has a father who is demanding and cold. She and her sister work outside the home to free themselves from him. With Christmas around the corner the gift shop they work for keeps them quit busy. Marcus comes into town running from his last mistake. He has come to take a job training horses . His boss Wyatt is trying to set him on the right track. Roslyn isn't sure what to think about Marcus and his worldly past. Roslyn's father is involved in something that will hurt their little town. There is a mystery to be solved. I hope you enjoy reading this book as much as i have and Charlotte's other books also. I was given this book as a ARC from net galley for my honest review

[Susan Faloon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Hubbard writes Amish stories that aren't all sweetness and light. They have a true bite of realistic conflict. A Simple Christmas features another Rhiel daughter, Rosilyn, who is under the all too stifling orders of dat, Cornelius. As the oldest daughter she questions the hope of her dream of ever being a wife and mother one day. When she meets Marcus Hooley her father immediately orders that she is not to have anything to do with the young man.
This story shows the possibilities for things to go very wrong even in the simple lifestyle of the Amish, especially when one leader feels he is above others. I enjoy Hubbard's stories and the lessons they teach.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher and NetGalley. I enjoy a good story about the celebration of Christmas during the holiday season. This is a very good one for this year.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved being back in Willow Ridge. It felt like I got to catch up with old friends and also meet new ones, like Marcus Hooley. For a small town they had a lot happening some good and some not so good. You will be surprised at the turn of events that will leave you breathless, when you learn the latest in Willow Ridge.

So do I recommend this book, you bet, hands down, Charlotte has once again manage to take me and transport me to the lovely town of Willow Ridge, where you will be welcome by the most warm and wonderful folks around.

This will make a great gift for someone in you family or friend and you may just want to pick up one yourself. You can find Charlottes books at most retail stores where books are sold.

I was given a copy of this book and was under no obligation to give a review.