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Amish Homestead #3
A Seat by the Hearth
Priscilla Allgyer, a young single mother, knows she cannot leave the past behind. But can love lead her toward the promise of healing?
Priscilla Allgyer left her community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return—along with her six-year-old son—to the place she thought she’d left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone.
As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever.
As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in the Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.
Sweet, inspirational read
Full-length novel (92K words)
Third book in Amy Clipston’s Amish Homestead series
Can also be enjoyed as a standalone
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
Priscilla Allgyer left her community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return—along with her six-year-old son—to the place she thought she’d left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone.
As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever.
As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in the Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.
Sweet, inspirational read
Full-length novel (92K words)
Third book in Amy Clipston’s Amish Homestead series
Can also be enjoyed as a standalone
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
352 pages, Paperback
First published November 13, 2018
102 people are currently reading
1707 people want to read
About the author
Amy Clipston
116 books2,199 followersHi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.
Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)
Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)
Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)
An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)
An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)
An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)
An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)
Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)
Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)
Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)
Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)
Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)
Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)
Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)
Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)
Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)
An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)
An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)
An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)
An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)
Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)
Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)
Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)
Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)
Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)
Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
September 15, 2022
About this book:
“Priscilla Allgyer knows she cannot leave the past behind. But can love lead her toward the promise of healing?
Priscilla Allgyer left the community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return—along with her six-year-old son—to the place she thought she’d left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone.
As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever.
As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed?”
Series: Book #3 in the “Amish Homestead” series. Review of Book #1 Here and #2 Here!
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Church going; Talks about God; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, answered prayers, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, bishops/ministers, hymns, sermons, youth groups, & Sunday school classes; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; Mentions of sins, sinning, & sinners; A few mentions of Christians; A couple mentions of miracles.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘stupid’s; Some eye rolling; Pain & Injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Hints of & mentions of an abusive (physically and verbally) home (Priscilla thinks if she had tried harder, it would have been better, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of alcohol, drinking, an angry drunk, & being injured by him (Priscilla’s son’s father, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a car accident, drunk driving, pain, & injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths from prior books; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of lies; A couple mentions of divorce;
*Note: A couple mentions of car brands.
Sexual Content- three almost border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss, and two detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss/to be kissed (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Nearness, Smelling, & Warmth (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing; two ‘harlot’s; Priscilla had a son out of wedlock & many mentions of the fact (including that he seduced her, and she lived with him, no details); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler* ; Mentions of being intimate behavior & touching/physical contact; Mentions of kissing, kisses, & an almost kiss; Mentions of a playboy reputation, flirting, dating, & girlfriends; Mentions of reputations; A few mentions of fulfilling wifely duties & in name only marriage; A few mentions of a rumor of why a couple is getting married quickly (pregnancy, which she’s not); A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of touches & kisses; A couple mentions of cute boys; A mention of not taking advantage of a woman; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of miscarriages; A mention of sitting on a rear end.
-Priscilla Allgyer, age 24 (?)
-Mark Riehl, age 26
P.O.V. switches between them
331 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
{Could be triggering to some readers for mentions of an abusive home & also being a marriage of convenience plot.}
Well. I truly have enjoyed many of Miss Amy’s other books, but this one was not my cup of tea at all. I really don’t like marriage of convenience or abusive stories because of the content. Priscilla and Mark both seemed really young (almost like high-school aged) in their thoughts and actions as well, so that also took away from the book to me. The detailed kisses are enough to get any book a low rating on here, even though I am very sad to give this author that rating. Just the longings of intimacy mentions were too much to me, but I do have a slight problem with Mark telling his older brother about the lack of intimacy with Priscilla after they were married and then Priscilla with her two friends. Not my favorite by this author to say that least. :(
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Zondervan) for this honest review.
“Priscilla Allgyer knows she cannot leave the past behind. But can love lead her toward the promise of healing?
Priscilla Allgyer left the community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return—along with her six-year-old son—to the place she thought she’d left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone.
As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever.
As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed?”
Series: Book #3 in the “Amish Homestead” series. Review of Book #1 Here and #2 Here!
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Church going; Talks about God; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, answered prayers, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, bishops/ministers, hymns, sermons, youth groups, & Sunday school classes; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; Mentions of sins, sinning, & sinners; A few mentions of Christians; A couple mentions of miracles.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘stupid’s; Some eye rolling; Pain & Injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Hints of & mentions of an abusive (physically and verbally) home (Priscilla thinks if she had tried harder, it would have been better, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of alcohol, drinking, an angry drunk, & being injured by him (Priscilla’s son’s father, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a car accident, drunk driving, pain, & injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths from prior books; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of lies; A couple mentions of divorce;
*Note: A couple mentions of car brands.
Sexual Content- three almost border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss, and two detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss/to be kissed (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Nearness, Smelling, & Warmth (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing; two ‘harlot’s; Priscilla had a son out of wedlock & many mentions of the fact (including that he seduced her, and she lived with him, no details); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler* ; Mentions of being intimate behavior & touching/physical contact; Mentions of kissing, kisses, & an almost kiss; Mentions of a playboy reputation, flirting, dating, & girlfriends; Mentions of reputations; A few mentions of fulfilling wifely duties & in name only marriage; A few mentions of a rumor of why a couple is getting married quickly (pregnancy, which she’s not); A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of touches & kisses; A couple mentions of cute boys; A mention of not taking advantage of a woman; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of miscarriages; A mention of sitting on a rear end.
-Priscilla Allgyer, age 24 (?)
-Mark Riehl, age 26
P.O.V. switches between them
331 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
{Could be triggering to some readers for mentions of an abusive home & also being a marriage of convenience plot.}
Well. I truly have enjoyed many of Miss Amy’s other books, but this one was not my cup of tea at all. I really don’t like marriage of convenience or abusive stories because of the content. Priscilla and Mark both seemed really young (almost like high-school aged) in their thoughts and actions as well, so that also took away from the book to me. The detailed kisses are enough to get any book a low rating on here, even though I am very sad to give this author that rating. Just the longings of intimacy mentions were too much to me, but I do have a slight problem with Mark telling his older brother about the lack of intimacy with Priscilla after they were married and then Priscilla with her two friends. Not my favorite by this author to say that least. :(
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Zondervan) for this honest review.
November 2, 2018
I LOVED this story!!!!!!!! I think the author has written her best work ever with a compelling story and characters it is impossible to dislike (ok, with the exception of a couple). I found this book heartbreaking and heartstopping at the same time. This book is just magnificent!!!!!!
I instantly fell in love with Priscilla and Mark. Priscilla has been emotionally and physically abused by her ex-boyfriend and son Ethan's father, Trent. It was easy to feel her emotions as she returns to her childhood home where she encounters Mark, her childhood best friend's brother. Mark is known to be a bit of a flirt but instead of me being turned off by this I found him to be friendly and charming. The way he cares about Priscilla without even knowing it just made my heart skip beats at times. Now some readers may not like the slow pace of the relationship between these characters, but I liked it. I liked the way Priscilla slowly let her guard down and how Mark's actions towards her spoke so much louder than any words. The author did a wonderful job in creating these characters and their personalities. They are a perfect match for each other and it is revealed page after wonderful page.
In addition to the abuse Priscilla received at the hands of her ex, there is also a very strained relationship with her father. There is a bit of a plot twist that I wasn't expecting in regards to this aspect of the story. I thought I knew how this story was going to progress and then *BAM* there it was and I was left rereading sentences to make sure I had correctly read them the first time. Once again Amy Clipston is proving that she is a top-notch author and can keep the reader's interest from beginning to end.
The pace of the story was perfect though at times I became a little impatient for these two characters to hopefully find their happily ever after. I chalk this up to the author's ability to create characters I loved and cared about so much. The descriptions made me feel as if I were there with the characters and experiencing everything along with them.
If I could only recommend one Amish fiction book to someone this would be the one. Everything about the book is perfect and showcases why Amy is one of (if not the) best writers of Amish fiction. This is the third book in the series but I feel like it would be ok to read as a standalone. You will have missed out on the backstory of some of the other characters but you won't feel lost. You can always go back and read the first two books later but this is one you definitely won't want to miss out on. This book is definitely going on my keeper shelf.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers. I was not required to write a review and all opinions are mine.
I instantly fell in love with Priscilla and Mark. Priscilla has been emotionally and physically abused by her ex-boyfriend and son Ethan's father, Trent. It was easy to feel her emotions as she returns to her childhood home where she encounters Mark, her childhood best friend's brother. Mark is known to be a bit of a flirt but instead of me being turned off by this I found him to be friendly and charming. The way he cares about Priscilla without even knowing it just made my heart skip beats at times. Now some readers may not like the slow pace of the relationship between these characters, but I liked it. I liked the way Priscilla slowly let her guard down and how Mark's actions towards her spoke so much louder than any words. The author did a wonderful job in creating these characters and their personalities. They are a perfect match for each other and it is revealed page after wonderful page.
In addition to the abuse Priscilla received at the hands of her ex, there is also a very strained relationship with her father. There is a bit of a plot twist that I wasn't expecting in regards to this aspect of the story. I thought I knew how this story was going to progress and then *BAM* there it was and I was left rereading sentences to make sure I had correctly read them the first time. Once again Amy Clipston is proving that she is a top-notch author and can keep the reader's interest from beginning to end.
The pace of the story was perfect though at times I became a little impatient for these two characters to hopefully find their happily ever after. I chalk this up to the author's ability to create characters I loved and cared about so much. The descriptions made me feel as if I were there with the characters and experiencing everything along with them.
If I could only recommend one Amish fiction book to someone this would be the one. Everything about the book is perfect and showcases why Amy is one of (if not the) best writers of Amish fiction. This is the third book in the series but I feel like it would be ok to read as a standalone. You will have missed out on the backstory of some of the other characters but you won't feel lost. You can always go back and read the first two books later but this is one you definitely won't want to miss out on. This book is definitely going on my keeper shelf.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers. I was not required to write a review and all opinions are mine.
January 2, 2019
A Seat by the Hearth
Amy Clipston
A SEAT BY THE HEARTH is the third book in the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston. It is the story of Priscilla Allgyer and how she is dealing with returning home to her Amish homestead, an unmarried woman, with a son. She left her Amish faith years ago after enduring years of verbal abuse from her father. Her mother is very happy that she has returned but her father is cold and distant. He allows her to stay in his home but she must return to her Amish ways. No more Englisch clothes and she must stand in front of the community and confess her sins.
Priscilla's old friend, Mark Riel quickly steps in to help Priscilla try to find her happy place. How can Priscilla's father turn his back on her and her son, Ethan? They need him and soon he finds out that he needs them. Amy Clipston sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with the family dealing with all their troubles and A SEAT BY THE HEARTH is exactly that! She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Amy Clipston book if you are a fan of the Amish genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a family can stand before it completely breaks down and splits.
A SEAT BY THE HEARTH is a heart tugging story filled with grief, loneliness, heartbreak, and love that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once I started this heartwarming story, it was very hard to put down! I really prayed that Mark would be able to convince Priscilla that she wasn't damaged and deserved to be loved and cherished. Amy Clipston isn't afraid to write about subjects out of the norm as far as the Amish genre goes. Oh, as a warning to the reader, keep the tissues handy and do not read the ending in a public place unless you don't mind crying in front of strangers! I'm so excited to continue catching up on all of Amy Clipston's previous books.
received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Amy Clipston
A SEAT BY THE HEARTH is the third book in the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston. It is the story of Priscilla Allgyer and how she is dealing with returning home to her Amish homestead, an unmarried woman, with a son. She left her Amish faith years ago after enduring years of verbal abuse from her father. Her mother is very happy that she has returned but her father is cold and distant. He allows her to stay in his home but she must return to her Amish ways. No more Englisch clothes and she must stand in front of the community and confess her sins.
Priscilla's old friend, Mark Riel quickly steps in to help Priscilla try to find her happy place. How can Priscilla's father turn his back on her and her son, Ethan? They need him and soon he finds out that he needs them. Amy Clipston sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with the family dealing with all their troubles and A SEAT BY THE HEARTH is exactly that! She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Amy Clipston book if you are a fan of the Amish genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a family can stand before it completely breaks down and splits.
A SEAT BY THE HEARTH is a heart tugging story filled with grief, loneliness, heartbreak, and love that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once I started this heartwarming story, it was very hard to put down! I really prayed that Mark would be able to convince Priscilla that she wasn't damaged and deserved to be loved and cherished. Amy Clipston isn't afraid to write about subjects out of the norm as far as the Amish genre goes. Oh, as a warning to the reader, keep the tissues handy and do not read the ending in a public place unless you don't mind crying in front of strangers! I'm so excited to continue catching up on all of Amy Clipston's previous books.
received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 7, 2018
Another hit! I can't sing the praises high enough. Mrs. Clipston has brought us Mark's story. I've been waiting patiently (or, those that TRULY know me, know it's not all that patient!) to see what Amy Clipston had in store for Mark and Priscilla. Let me tell you this: she truly had a wonderful story for them. They were absolutely perfect in every way for this moving, heartfelt, gripping addition to the Amish Homestead series.
Mark and Priscilla had to endure an "arranged" marriage but they didn't let that stop them from making the best of it, and learning about one another. Their pasts catch up to them, they learn a lot about what it means to wholly accept oneself, and they learn that there will always be a seat by the hearth for each other to continue their journey in life as not just friends, but as an actual couple.
This book is filled with ups, downs, hope and understanding. Amy Clipston's trademark messages of acceptance and love are woven perfectly through out this incredible journey. God is definitely working on Mark and Priscilla within these pages and I won't soon forget them! They are on my keeper shelf to stay. Mark's play boy ways, and Priscilla's uneasiness are over come by the true love of friendship. Definitely a 5 star worthy novel in this reader's honest opinion! I can't wait for another beautifully chiseled novel from this talented author!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Mark and Priscilla had to endure an "arranged" marriage but they didn't let that stop them from making the best of it, and learning about one another. Their pasts catch up to them, they learn a lot about what it means to wholly accept oneself, and they learn that there will always be a seat by the hearth for each other to continue their journey in life as not just friends, but as an actual couple.
This book is filled with ups, downs, hope and understanding. Amy Clipston's trademark messages of acceptance and love are woven perfectly through out this incredible journey. God is definitely working on Mark and Priscilla within these pages and I won't soon forget them! They are on my keeper shelf to stay. Mark's play boy ways, and Priscilla's uneasiness are over come by the true love of friendship. Definitely a 5 star worthy novel in this reader's honest opinion! I can't wait for another beautifully chiseled novel from this talented author!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
November 11, 2018
An enjoyable read from beginning to end, and kept me page turning. The author gives us a woman that leaves and abusive home and ends up in another, and to make it more interesting she is Amish.
When she returns to the Amish she comes with her sweet six-year-old son Ethan, and what a joy he is.
I loved how the situation with the violent boyfriend was resolved, and never saw it coming.
Now this is the third book in this series, and loved being back with old friends, but this book can stand alone.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.
When she returns to the Amish she comes with her sweet six-year-old son Ethan, and what a joy he is.
I loved how the situation with the violent boyfriend was resolved, and never saw it coming.
Now this is the third book in this series, and loved being back with old friends, but this book can stand alone.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.
February 26, 2019
A Seat by the Hearth is the third book in the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston, and I was sorry to see this series end. In this story we meet Priscilla Allgyer. Priscilla left the Amish Community and Faith years ago after enduring years of verbal and emotional abuse from her father. She is now returning, an unmarried mother and physically abused woman. Her mother is thrilled with her return and meeting her grandson, her father is not. He is cold, distant and once again demanding. He tells her that she can stay in his home with conditions. She must return to her Amish ways, wear Amish clothes, confess her sins in front of the church, attend classes and find a suitable Amish husband, quickly. Verbally, she agrees, but in her heart, she wants to learn to stand on her own two feet before becoming dependent on a man again.
The characters were well-developed and most were enjoyable. Priscilla was trying to be a strong woman and good mother to her son. Ethan was a delight. A little boy that found happiness in new things and people. He was innocent and wanted to get to know his new family. Her parents were not what I would have expected from an Amish family. Her father was not forgiving and loving, but cold and demanding. I was glad to see that he finally sees the error of his ways by the end of the book. Mark Riel, Priscilla's old friend was a great match for her. He was strong, upstanding and struggling with his future as well. I kept reading to see if Mark would be able to convince Priscilla that she wasn't damaged and deserved to find love. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and you will find yourself cheering for them; that they will work out their problems and find happiness. This story is full of emotion such as grief, loneliness, heartbreak, and love. At times I was angry with some of the characters. Once I started this book, it was hard to put it down. I read it in one day, neglecting other things I should have been doing. If you enjoy Amish Fiction and Romance, especially if you like Amy Clipston, then you don't want to miss this book or series. I am glad I didn't.
The characters were well-developed and most were enjoyable. Priscilla was trying to be a strong woman and good mother to her son. Ethan was a delight. A little boy that found happiness in new things and people. He was innocent and wanted to get to know his new family. Her parents were not what I would have expected from an Amish family. Her father was not forgiving and loving, but cold and demanding. I was glad to see that he finally sees the error of his ways by the end of the book. Mark Riel, Priscilla's old friend was a great match for her. He was strong, upstanding and struggling with his future as well. I kept reading to see if Mark would be able to convince Priscilla that she wasn't damaged and deserved to find love. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and you will find yourself cheering for them; that they will work out their problems and find happiness. This story is full of emotion such as grief, loneliness, heartbreak, and love. At times I was angry with some of the characters. Once I started this book, it was hard to put it down. I read it in one day, neglecting other things I should have been doing. If you enjoy Amish Fiction and Romance, especially if you like Amy Clipston, then you don't want to miss this book or series. I am glad I didn't.
October 31, 2018
Priscilla Allgyer left the community in hopes of escaping the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return to the place she thought she’d left behind forever—along with her six-year-old son. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone. As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, the two are compelled to enter an awkward, unexpected engagement. After Priscilla and Mark marry and live as friends, affection quietly grows between them—but Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in the Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.
I've read a couple of other books about this same family (A Place at the Table is one), and really enjoy the way that the author takes serious issues and shows how they are present across the board. Here, we are dealing with abuse, both emotional and physical, and it was just really surprising to see it show up in an Amish community...it's not something that I would think would happen there...but she shows that they have serious faults as well. She also shows the hard choices that many face to stay within their church boundaries, the restrictions that they cope with, and the character struggles that are common to young people everywhere. I felt like Mark was almost _too_ good to be true, but love how this story ended. I'll be interested to read the one about the final Riehl child, Cindy, and see how everything ties up for the siblings!
I've read a couple of other books about this same family (A Place at the Table is one), and really enjoy the way that the author takes serious issues and shows how they are present across the board. Here, we are dealing with abuse, both emotional and physical, and it was just really surprising to see it show up in an Amish community...it's not something that I would think would happen there...but she shows that they have serious faults as well. She also shows the hard choices that many face to stay within their church boundaries, the restrictions that they cope with, and the character struggles that are common to young people everywhere. I felt like Mark was almost _too_ good to be true, but love how this story ended. I'll be interested to read the one about the final Riehl child, Cindy, and see how everything ties up for the siblings!
November 6, 2018
Ms. Clipston continues to impress me with her ability to tap into so many of my emotions not only throughout this series but with this book in particular. The characters in this book managed to take a piece of my heart and I was more than willing to give it to them.
Priscilla and her son, Ethan were so easy to love and I felt as nervous as Priscilla did when she returned to her parents home after years of living in the English world. As it turned out, we were both right because her dad gave a less than warm welcome to his daughter. It was difficult to learn of the abuse that Priscilla had suffered at the hands of Ethan’s father and heartbreaking to learn of the years of verbal abuse by her father.
It didn’t surprise me that Priscilla was a conflicted character that had an instinct to run from certain situations given what she had been through. It made her relatable to me. I felt so bad for her when she realized how much she had missed while she had been away and how old friends would react to her coming home. Speaking of old friends, I loved catching up with Mark Riehl and his family.
I loved Mark and how kind he was to Priscilla but she didn’t warm up to him because of his flirtatiousness. Mark was harmless and had a great sense of humor but it was his fondness for Ethan that really made me love him.. I loved that he went to great lengths to help Priscilla in any way he could. I think that everyone needs a friend like Mark in their lives.
There were a few things I didn’t expect to happen in this book but that just made me love it even more when they did. For instance, I never expected to shed tears over the naming of two babies, but I did and I certainly never expected the slow but beautiful build up to a couple of relationships. There is just so much to love about, A Seat by the Hearth due to the author delivering some of her best work in this poignant novel.
I recommend reading the first two books in the series to familiarize yourself with the characters and the community. I’m pretty sure you will love all of them.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Priscilla and her son, Ethan were so easy to love and I felt as nervous as Priscilla did when she returned to her parents home after years of living in the English world. As it turned out, we were both right because her dad gave a less than warm welcome to his daughter. It was difficult to learn of the abuse that Priscilla had suffered at the hands of Ethan’s father and heartbreaking to learn of the years of verbal abuse by her father.
It didn’t surprise me that Priscilla was a conflicted character that had an instinct to run from certain situations given what she had been through. It made her relatable to me. I felt so bad for her when she realized how much she had missed while she had been away and how old friends would react to her coming home. Speaking of old friends, I loved catching up with Mark Riehl and his family.
I loved Mark and how kind he was to Priscilla but she didn’t warm up to him because of his flirtatiousness. Mark was harmless and had a great sense of humor but it was his fondness for Ethan that really made me love him.. I loved that he went to great lengths to help Priscilla in any way he could. I think that everyone needs a friend like Mark in their lives.
There were a few things I didn’t expect to happen in this book but that just made me love it even more when they did. For instance, I never expected to shed tears over the naming of two babies, but I did and I certainly never expected the slow but beautiful build up to a couple of relationships. There is just so much to love about, A Seat by the Hearth due to the author delivering some of her best work in this poignant novel.
I recommend reading the first two books in the series to familiarize yourself with the characters and the community. I’m pretty sure you will love all of them.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
November 1, 2018
This was a story that certainly touched my heart. I was quickly engrossed and unable to put it down. Priscilla's life held a whole lot of heartache but she was a a fighter on a mission to secure a better life for her young son and herself. The hope for everything to work out for her was an easily catalyst for finishing the book quickly.
My heart really went out to Priscilla's character. When conflict arises, her instinct is to run from it in order to protect her heart and her son. To be honest I could resonate with some of her thoughts in the book, as I have been a runner as well. I know what some of her thoughts feel like. What I loved about this story was that despite how Priscilla ended up back home, she had found a friend in a man who was willing to stand up for her at all costs. Even if things hadn't happened as they did, I still believe the outcome would be the same. When you love someone, you are willing and want to protect them. I really loved how their relationship evolved, especially with all of the curve balls thrown their way.
This is a story I would absolutely highly recommend. Although it's the third book in the series it's the first one I've read but I was able to successfully read it as a stand-alone. Having said that though, other characters present in the book are the main characters in the first two, and I DO wish I'd read them first. This is a wonderful series for Amish fiction fans.
*I received a free copy of this book from JustRead Publicity tours through NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
My heart really went out to Priscilla's character. When conflict arises, her instinct is to run from it in order to protect her heart and her son. To be honest I could resonate with some of her thoughts in the book, as I have been a runner as well. I know what some of her thoughts feel like. What I loved about this story was that despite how Priscilla ended up back home, she had found a friend in a man who was willing to stand up for her at all costs. Even if things hadn't happened as they did, I still believe the outcome would be the same. When you love someone, you are willing and want to protect them. I really loved how their relationship evolved, especially with all of the curve balls thrown their way.
This is a story I would absolutely highly recommend. Although it's the third book in the series it's the first one I've read but I was able to successfully read it as a stand-alone. Having said that though, other characters present in the book are the main characters in the first two, and I DO wish I'd read them first. This is a wonderful series for Amish fiction fans.
*I received a free copy of this book from JustRead Publicity tours through NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 8, 2018
Amy Clipston is one of my favorite authors and I've enjoyed all three of the Amish Homestead novels.
I love the ease of reading this story of Priscilla Allyger and how she so desperately wants to leave/escape from the Amish community.
She leaves the community but as life would have it...she's back. But now she has a six-year-old son.
Her mother greets her with open arms but her father keeps the letter of the law. Priscilla is welcome as long as she follows all the rules, again. Priscilla feels trapped.
Then she meets Mark Riehl. And he is a playboy. Priscilla gives him a wide berth but he has his sights set one her.
She tires to keep Mark at arm's length but he keeps pursuing her and she does need a friend, desperately.
And then the unthinkable happens, she and Mark are caught in a compromising situation. Well, compromising to her dad and the bishop and so her dad and the bishop insist on Mark and Priscilla getting married.
So, they enter an unexpected engagement.
This is not a typical Amish story. It's a little more about not being so Amish.
I was enthralled with Priscilla's story.
*This book was provided for review by BookLook*
I love the ease of reading this story of Priscilla Allyger and how she so desperately wants to leave/escape from the Amish community.
She leaves the community but as life would have it...she's back. But now she has a six-year-old son.
Her mother greets her with open arms but her father keeps the letter of the law. Priscilla is welcome as long as she follows all the rules, again. Priscilla feels trapped.
Then she meets Mark Riehl. And he is a playboy. Priscilla gives him a wide berth but he has his sights set one her.
She tires to keep Mark at arm's length but he keeps pursuing her and she does need a friend, desperately.
And then the unthinkable happens, she and Mark are caught in a compromising situation. Well, compromising to her dad and the bishop and so her dad and the bishop insist on Mark and Priscilla getting married.
So, they enter an unexpected engagement.
This is not a typical Amish story. It's a little more about not being so Amish.
I was enthralled with Priscilla's story.
*This book was provided for review by BookLook*
November 23, 2018
Such a sweet story! I loved that Priscilla and Mark were both able to grow and change as the story progressed. I really felt bad for all that Priscilla endured, and I didn’t like
Mark at all at first (I thought he was kind of a playboy) but as his character evolved, I liked him more. I don’t think the Amish Homestead series will end up being my favorite of Amy Clipston’s, but it’s still really cute and I’m looking forward to seeing how it will conclude with Mark’s sister Cindy’s story.
Mark at all at first (I thought he was kind of a playboy) but as his character evolved, I liked him more. I don’t think the Amish Homestead series will end up being my favorite of Amy Clipston’s, but it’s still really cute and I’m looking forward to seeing how it will conclude with Mark’s sister Cindy’s story.
September 25, 2018
Priscilla Allgyer left home and moved to Baltimore to get out from under her father's hyper-criticism. But what she did was jump from the frying pan into the fire. She got involved in a relationship with a man who physically abused her. In desperation, she takes her six year old son and goes back to Lancaster. In order for her to stay, her father lays down some rules: she must re-join the church, serve her shunning time, and find a husband.
Mark Riehl is the first face she sees when she returns to town. Mark has always had the reputation of being a flirt--always chatting up the other ladies to the point that two of the ladies believe he is going to ask them to marry him. Oh yeah, he also works for Yonnie Allgyer--Priscilla's father.
Mark tried to get Priscilla to talk to him, to open up to him, and allow him to share her burdens. He found her in the barn crying and was trying to talk to her there and she was trying to get away from him, but her sleeve got caught on a nail and tore. That is when Yonnie and John, the bishop, come in and find them together. Yonnie demands that they set the soonest wedding date possible.
Once Priscilla agrees to marry Mark, Yonnie has a self-satisfied look about him. He had manipulated the situation to his desires. His daughter is no longer his problem.
Amy Clipston does her research on the Amish life and makes the research come alive in her characters. A Seat by the Hearth is one of those slices of Amish life. My favorite part is when Mark comes in on Yonnie's tirade on Priscilla. He rips Yonnie a new one for his treatment of Priscilla and moves her out from under her father's thumb.
This is a five star book, two thumbs up, and a man who will stand up for you in all circumstances.
My thanks to Zondervan Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.
Mark Riehl is the first face she sees when she returns to town. Mark has always had the reputation of being a flirt--always chatting up the other ladies to the point that two of the ladies believe he is going to ask them to marry him. Oh yeah, he also works for Yonnie Allgyer--Priscilla's father.
Mark tried to get Priscilla to talk to him, to open up to him, and allow him to share her burdens. He found her in the barn crying and was trying to talk to her there and she was trying to get away from him, but her sleeve got caught on a nail and tore. That is when Yonnie and John, the bishop, come in and find them together. Yonnie demands that they set the soonest wedding date possible.
Once Priscilla agrees to marry Mark, Yonnie has a self-satisfied look about him. He had manipulated the situation to his desires. His daughter is no longer his problem.
Amy Clipston does her research on the Amish life and makes the research come alive in her characters. A Seat by the Hearth is one of those slices of Amish life. My favorite part is when Mark comes in on Yonnie's tirade on Priscilla. He rips Yonnie a new one for his treatment of Priscilla and moves her out from under her father's thumb.
This is a five star book, two thumbs up, and a man who will stand up for you in all circumstances.
My thanks to Zondervan Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.
December 16, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Priscilla and Mark had so many tough issues to work through and their story spun an engrossing web that unravelled finally in their love for each other. I am looking forward to reading the last book in this series.
September 16, 2018
In the third book of Amy Clipston’s Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth, we get Mark’s story. Mark has always been something of a playboy. He doesn’t see himself settling down with any of the young ladies who seem to trail after him. When Priscilla comes home after eight years in the English world with her small son, he seems drawn to her as he works for her father. However, she seems just as determined to keep him at a distance. She must complete her shunning and obey her father’s rules if she wants a place to stay for her and her son. Regardless of how much she pushes him away though, Mark is just as determined to be her friend and help her through this time. When the bishop and her father find them in a compromising position, they are forced to marry. Can they get passed their own insecurities and doubts to fins a love to last forever?
This was so good. I loved hearing Mark’s story. And Priscilla was such a relatable character for me. I am excited about the next book in the series as well, where we learn Cindy’s story. I have always loved clipston’s books and this one was no exception! I received a free copy of this story from NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was so good. I loved hearing Mark’s story. And Priscilla was such a relatable character for me. I am excited about the next book in the series as well, where we learn Cindy’s story. I have always loved clipston’s books and this one was no exception! I received a free copy of this story from NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2018
I absolutely loved this wonderful story! I have enjoyed every book in this series so far and can definitely say that the Amish Homestead series is proving to be one of my favorite Amish romance series that I have read. If you have not read the previous books, you should still be able to enjoy this one. Just know that previous siblings and their families play a large part in this book.
A Seat by the Hearth is not only a tale in which a gentle romance unfolds. It is also a story in which the brutal effects of abuse, both verbal and physical, is explored.
Priscilla and Mark are characters that I could not help but love. Mark’s lighthearted, teasing manner brought many fun moments into the story, yet the reader gets to see inside this ladies man to the caring and loving person he truly is. And Priscilla, a loving mother who wants to protect her child, has been so wounded in her past that she does not see herself as worthy of love. Mark is just the man to help her learn to understand what a treasure she is. I highly recommend this novel and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
A Seat by the Hearth is not only a tale in which a gentle romance unfolds. It is also a story in which the brutal effects of abuse, both verbal and physical, is explored.
Priscilla and Mark are characters that I could not help but love. Mark’s lighthearted, teasing manner brought many fun moments into the story, yet the reader gets to see inside this ladies man to the caring and loving person he truly is. And Priscilla, a loving mother who wants to protect her child, has been so wounded in her past that she does not see herself as worthy of love. Mark is just the man to help her learn to understand what a treasure she is. I highly recommend this novel and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
September 28, 2018
Pricilla and Mark's whirlwind romance rocked me to my core. This by far is one of Amy Clipston's most emotionally books ever. I cried more then ever before, but then was over with the warmth and faith she threw after every heartbreaking scene. Beautiful and satisfying. A MUST READ!
February 17, 2021
In this third book in the Amish Homestead series, we find the characters of Priscilla Allgyer and Mark Riehl.
Priscilla, who left the Amish community several years previously to live the English life, now has a young son and feels she has to escape the son’s abusive father, so returns to her Amish family. Her mother is overjoyed to have her return home, but her strict father, requires her to follow his rules in order to remain in their home. She struggles with doing this, or trying to go back out into the English world and be on her own.
Mark Riehl, who works for her father and is the brother of Priscilla’s best friend is drawn into her father’s plans for her and she wants nothing to do with it, however, feels she has to keep her son’s best interest above her own.
Will these two be able to overcome their fears and animosities to become more than just friends and discover love in their future?
This was a very enjoyable, easy to read book that I would highly recommend to others.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Priscilla, who left the Amish community several years previously to live the English life, now has a young son and feels she has to escape the son’s abusive father, so returns to her Amish family. Her mother is overjoyed to have her return home, but her strict father, requires her to follow his rules in order to remain in their home. She struggles with doing this, or trying to go back out into the English world and be on her own.
Mark Riehl, who works for her father and is the brother of Priscilla’s best friend is drawn into her father’s plans for her and she wants nothing to do with it, however, feels she has to keep her son’s best interest above her own.
Will these two be able to overcome their fears and animosities to become more than just friends and discover love in their future?
This was a very enjoyable, easy to read book that I would highly recommend to others.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 2, 2019
It was okay. I wish the author focused more on the son's adaptation to living in the Amish community. It was too quick and too easy. As a parent of a five year old, I would expect some more adjustment to not having electricity, TV, a car... heck anything.
ARC received from Netgalley
ARC received from Netgalley
November 5, 2018
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
Priscilla Allgyer knows she cannot leave the past behind,
But can love lead her toward the promise of healing?
Priscilla Allgyer left the community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return--along with her six-year-old son--to the place she thought she'd left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone.
As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day--while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won't give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn't realize it--and after Priscilla's father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever.
As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in teh Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.
MY REVIEW
This was a wonderful story, I read it in one day, which is fast for me considering the book was over 300 pages. A lot of different abuse in the story, can it be overcome through love and faith, can it be forgiven, you'll have to read to find out. I guess I missed out on the first two books in the series so I have to go back and catch up. From the blurbs on the first two books, it would be better to read the series in order.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers; book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Priscilla Allgyer knows she cannot leave the past behind,
But can love lead her toward the promise of healing?
Priscilla Allgyer left the community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return--along with her six-year-old son--to the place she thought she'd left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone.
As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day--while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won't give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn't realize it--and after Priscilla's father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever.
As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in teh Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.
MY REVIEW
This was a wonderful story, I read it in one day, which is fast for me considering the book was over 300 pages. A lot of different abuse in the story, can it be overcome through love and faith, can it be forgiven, you'll have to read to find out. I guess I missed out on the first two books in the series so I have to go back and catch up. From the blurbs on the first two books, it would be better to read the series in order.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers; book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 24, 2019
Although through the years I have read very few romance novels, or novels about the Amish, I saw this book mentioned in a large advertisement for author Amy Clipston’s new book and decided to read it. After all, it had my name on the cover!
It is quite remarkable how many Amish-related novels have been published in recent decades. Clipston (b. 1972) is one of the most prolific authors of such books. She has written dozens of novels, and most of them are about the Amish--and two more are due to be published later this year (2019). Two years ago it was announced that more than one million of Clipston’s books have been sold.
While it is not great literature or profound in any real sense, A Seat by the Hearth is a touching story about Priscilla, an Amish girl who left the Amish community and returned eight years later with a son born out of wedlock. Much of the book is about Priscilla’s struggle to fit back into the community, and her family dominated by her stern father.
A constant undercurrent in the book is Priscilla’s relationship with her father, particularly her deep feelings of not being loved by him. While his sternness was no doubt amplified by his strick Amish beliefs, the unsatisfactory father-daughter relationship is one that could occur in any family, Amish or not.
One of the things I liked about this book is how the Amish people are treated as “real” people. That is, while their distinctive beliefs and practices are respected, Priscilla, her family, and the other people in the book are treated as “normal” people with the same strengths and weaknesses that are found in the larger society.
So, even though it was a rare read for me, I much enjoyed this book and recommend it for those would like to read a book that is wholesome, sensitive to human relationships, and ends happily (as I knew it would; I just didn’t know how it was going to get there).
It is quite remarkable how many Amish-related novels have been published in recent decades. Clipston (b. 1972) is one of the most prolific authors of such books. She has written dozens of novels, and most of them are about the Amish--and two more are due to be published later this year (2019). Two years ago it was announced that more than one million of Clipston’s books have been sold.
While it is not great literature or profound in any real sense, A Seat by the Hearth is a touching story about Priscilla, an Amish girl who left the Amish community and returned eight years later with a son born out of wedlock. Much of the book is about Priscilla’s struggle to fit back into the community, and her family dominated by her stern father.
A constant undercurrent in the book is Priscilla’s relationship with her father, particularly her deep feelings of not being loved by him. While his sternness was no doubt amplified by his strick Amish beliefs, the unsatisfactory father-daughter relationship is one that could occur in any family, Amish or not.
One of the things I liked about this book is how the Amish people are treated as “real” people. That is, while their distinctive beliefs and practices are respected, Priscilla, her family, and the other people in the book are treated as “normal” people with the same strengths and weaknesses that are found in the larger society.
So, even though it was a rare read for me, I much enjoyed this book and recommend it for those would like to read a book that is wholesome, sensitive to human relationships, and ends happily (as I knew it would; I just didn’t know how it was going to get there).
November 12, 2018
A Seat by the Hearth, by Amy Clipston, is the third book in An Amish Homestead Novel. This book takes over when book two ends, so it is best to read them in order. However; enough background information is given that this can be read as a stand alone book. One of the things that I am liking the best about this series is that there is a tragedy that is behind each of the stories. The stories show how the characters struggle with what has happened and how they eventually open their hearts and minds to moving on with their lives.
In this story we visit the Riehl family again. Mark is the son of a farmer, yet he has chosen to work for the Allgyer's to save up the money to build his own house on this family's farm. Priscilla Allgyer left her parents home years ago. Fleeing an abusive relationship, she has no option but to take her 6 year-old son home to her parents. Her mother is so excited to have her home, but her father has not changed. He is still controlling. He has given her orders that she must follow to be able to stay with them and give her son a home. When her father sees her visiting with Mark, he forces them to get married. Mark has the reputation of being a playboy and has never seen himself being married. Priscilla has been in abusive relationships and does not trust men.
This is an enjoyable story to read. I enjoy having the story go back to the characters from the previous books. I feel anyone who enjoys reading Amish stories will enjoy this story. I received a copy of this book from Zondervan Publishing, through BookLook Bloggers. This is my honest review.
In this story we visit the Riehl family again. Mark is the son of a farmer, yet he has chosen to work for the Allgyer's to save up the money to build his own house on this family's farm. Priscilla Allgyer left her parents home years ago. Fleeing an abusive relationship, she has no option but to take her 6 year-old son home to her parents. Her mother is so excited to have her home, but her father has not changed. He is still controlling. He has given her orders that she must follow to be able to stay with them and give her son a home. When her father sees her visiting with Mark, he forces them to get married. Mark has the reputation of being a playboy and has never seen himself being married. Priscilla has been in abusive relationships and does not trust men.
This is an enjoyable story to read. I enjoy having the story go back to the characters from the previous books. I feel anyone who enjoys reading Amish stories will enjoy this story. I received a copy of this book from Zondervan Publishing, through BookLook Bloggers. This is my honest review.
December 7, 2018
Desperation came not just from a lack of love but from how she was treated. He wanted to be the one man that would respect and cherish her. He had to save her from the this endless cycle of abuse.
I have enjoyed this series of the Riehl family and those that they touch. A heartwarming story of the example of Christ and how he pursues each of us. Priscilla Allgyer escaped her father's verbal abuse and the Amish community 8 years ago . Desperate for love and acceptance, she met Trent an Englisher that swept her off her feet only to find herself in a different type of abuse. Trent was an alcoholic and became violent when provoked. Now with an 5 year old son, she knows she must escape again and go back to her family to find safe refuge for her son. As a shunned woman and still at odds with her father, she is on a emotional roller coaster. Is the Amish lifestyle for her son and can she stand up to her father.
Mark Riehl is now working for Yonnie Allgyer, Priscilla's father. Priscilla's knows Mark as her best friend twin brother and a big flirt. Mark knows Priscilla's as his twin's best friend. But seeing her back with her son and her confidence at a all time low, he wants to protect her and be her friend.
Both Mark and Priscilla must overcome emotions and manipulations before they realize what love is. Could not wait to see how they ended up together!
A Special Thank you to Zondervan and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
I have enjoyed this series of the Riehl family and those that they touch. A heartwarming story of the example of Christ and how he pursues each of us. Priscilla Allgyer escaped her father's verbal abuse and the Amish community 8 years ago . Desperate for love and acceptance, she met Trent an Englisher that swept her off her feet only to find herself in a different type of abuse. Trent was an alcoholic and became violent when provoked. Now with an 5 year old son, she knows she must escape again and go back to her family to find safe refuge for her son. As a shunned woman and still at odds with her father, she is on a emotional roller coaster. Is the Amish lifestyle for her son and can she stand up to her father.
Mark Riehl is now working for Yonnie Allgyer, Priscilla's father. Priscilla's knows Mark as her best friend twin brother and a big flirt. Mark knows Priscilla's as his twin's best friend. But seeing her back with her son and her confidence at a all time low, he wants to protect her and be her friend.
Both Mark and Priscilla must overcome emotions and manipulations before they realize what love is. Could not wait to see how they ended up together!
A Special Thank you to Zondervan and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
April 14, 2023
I was drawn into the lives of Priscilla and Mark, two very different people who find themselves in circumstances that spiral out of control. Priscilla was both desperate and courageous to return to her Amish home, even with a verbally abusive father. She has trust issues with men because of that dysfunctional relationship, and also the physically abusive relationship she left behind- causing her to mistrust charming men like Mark. Mark is from a wonderful family who have had their share of hardship, and I enjoyed his close relationship with his twin sister Laura. He is the ultimate bachelor, charming the girls but never committing because he considers them just friends. Plenty of drama and angst ensues as he is drawn to Priscilla who rebuffs his every attempt at friendship, while she adjusts to returning home and what that means for her future. Their story is compelling, but I wished for more time when they were actually getting along and not denying their growing affection- which they held onto stubbornly until the bitter end. The interactions with Mark's family and siblings were my favorite parts.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
November 10, 2018
A Seat by the Hearth by Amy Clipston is a novel that I completely lost myself within its pages. I was in deep on the protagonist's life, that I forgot my steaming mug of coffee! Amy Clipston's words swept me away. Inside, I found a young woman who found no love from her father. Only a stern critical man who would never trust or listen to her. He pushed her away from everything she loved. Including him. Now, she returns back home. Unwed, with a 6-year-old son, and determined to face what lies ahead. Her father once more gives her the cold shoulder that she has always known. He never once asked her what she has done or how she is. Feeling worn out, Priscilla thinks her only option is to move out once again. But the childhood boy she grew up with won't give up on her. He is determined to make her a friend. But then even that plan gets thwarted. Her dad once more becomes controlling as ever. Is is then that an unexpected arrival makes life even more complicated for her.
Sad, heartbreaking, but hopeful, A Seat by the Hearth gave a good vibe. It is a clean read. Despite the troubled past and present that the heroine faces, she ends up being stronger than she thought. Themes of abuse both in the marriage and family, are seen here. Major themes included faith, love, and second chances. I felt like I was living among these Amish characters. Amy Clipston has a way with her words. Overall, I recommend this novel to all.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
Sad, heartbreaking, but hopeful, A Seat by the Hearth gave a good vibe. It is a clean read. Despite the troubled past and present that the heroine faces, she ends up being stronger than she thought. Themes of abuse both in the marriage and family, are seen here. Major themes included faith, love, and second chances. I felt like I was living among these Amish characters. Amy Clipston has a way with her words. Overall, I recommend this novel to all.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
November 19, 2018
A Seat by the Hearth, by Amy Clipston, introduces us to Priscilla Allgyer along with her six-year-old son, Ethan. Priscilla, having fled her Amish roots, feels she must return to the Amish and their way of life in order to protect herself and her child.
I loved Ethan. A precocious child who loves easily, Ethan is able to leap from an Englisher (non-Amish) lifestyle to Amish with no problems or qualms and is thrilled to be learning more about horses from a grandfather he never knew he had.
I enjoyed Mark Riehl’s character, too. He came across as a flighty, flirty “playboy” type. However, deep down inside he had a heart of gold and a huge protective streak.
Clipston deals with several tough subjects in sensitive, sympathetic and insightful ways. The issue of domestic abuse is never an easy one to address, whether in fiction or real life, yet with Clipston’s portrayal, we can more fully understand Priscilla’s dilemmas. The issues of shunning, fear, trust and faith all complicate Priscilla’s life.
As with all of her books, Clipston pulls you into the story and doesn’t let go. You are left thinking about the stories, long after you have finished the books.
I received this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
#AseatByTheHearth #NetGalley
I loved Ethan. A precocious child who loves easily, Ethan is able to leap from an Englisher (non-Amish) lifestyle to Amish with no problems or qualms and is thrilled to be learning more about horses from a grandfather he never knew he had.
I enjoyed Mark Riehl’s character, too. He came across as a flighty, flirty “playboy” type. However, deep down inside he had a heart of gold and a huge protective streak.
Clipston deals with several tough subjects in sensitive, sympathetic and insightful ways. The issue of domestic abuse is never an easy one to address, whether in fiction or real life, yet with Clipston’s portrayal, we can more fully understand Priscilla’s dilemmas. The issues of shunning, fear, trust and faith all complicate Priscilla’s life.
As with all of her books, Clipston pulls you into the story and doesn’t let go. You are left thinking about the stories, long after you have finished the books.
I received this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
#AseatByTheHearth #NetGalley
November 11, 2018
Amy Clipston has a way of writing that brings her characters to life. The reader can easily relate to the ups and downs in which the characters must overcome in their lives. Her characters are well developed and her storylines are hard to put down. A Seat by the Hearth is the third book in this series. While I have enjoyed the other two, this one was hard to put down. Pricilla and Mark's story was by far the best. So many woman face the same trials that brought Pricilla back to her Amish heritage. While her first instincts are to run, her quiet resolve to protect her son is one that most can connect with. Mark was shown as a some what play boy who many thought would never find the right wife. Watching these two fall in love but have no idea that they are in love kept me turning the pages. I love how forgiveness, love, understanding, and the need to protect innocent ones played out in the story. Fear often drives us but with someone to love and protect, we can conquer our fears. I highly recommend this book and all of her books. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.
November 19, 2018
A Seat by the Hearth by Amy Clipston is book three of the Amish Homestead Novel series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. We follow Priscilla who has escaped an abusive relationship with her son and returned to her childhood home. It was easy to feel her emotions as she returns home where she encounters Mark, her childhood best friend's brother. Mark, who is known to be a flirt, is charming and sweet. He instantly cares about Priscilla and her son. I loved that he was okay with taking things very slow, letting her ease her guard down as she was ready.
I found the strained relationship between Priscilla and her father to be a surprise, as she was his only child. It was hard to believe some of the actions he took in the story, but it was very captivating and held my attention from beginning to end. Clipston did an amazing job creating characters that were easy to love. The descriptions brought them to life and made the reader feel everything they were experiencing throughout the book
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley.com and all opinions are my own.
I found the strained relationship between Priscilla and her father to be a surprise, as she was his only child. It was hard to believe some of the actions he took in the story, but it was very captivating and held my attention from beginning to end. Clipston did an amazing job creating characters that were easy to love. The descriptions brought them to life and made the reader feel everything they were experiencing throughout the book
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley.com and all opinions are my own.
November 12, 2018
In Book Three of The Amish Homestead Series, Author Amy Clipston takes us back to visit our favorite Amish family in Lancaster Co, PA, The Riehls. This time it’s Mark’s story, a confirmed bachelor with a reputation for enjoying spending time with the young women in the community. Priscilla Allgyer left her Amish home to escape her father’s expectations only to find herself in an abusive relationship. Once her situation becomes unbearable, she leaves with her son, Ethan. She returns home knowing she will be shunned. When she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, he is determined to reach out and be a friend. She is just as resolute to not be one of his conquests. Misunderstandings abound, and the emotions will pull at your heartstrings. I have enjoyed this series. Each is stand-alone. Definitely, a great addition for your to-be-read pile!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
November 26, 2018
A Seat by the Hearth is an amazing story written by Amy Clipston in her Homestead novel series. This story is very well written and Amy has done a fantastic job telling her story.
I enjoyed the characters of Pricilla and Mark very much. This story is filled with heartache, love, and unfortunately abuse. There is physical, verbal, and mental abuse that Pricilla has had to endure. This story has many twist and turns and will have you enduring many emotions. The author has developed her characters to tell her story so that the reader feels connected to them. I loved how this storyline played out.
I did not receive 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 for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others who enjoy the Amish genre.
Congratulations to Amy Clipston for writing another fantastic story for her readers to enjoy. I will be watching for more releases by this author in the future.
I enjoyed the characters of Pricilla and Mark very much. This story is filled with heartache, love, and unfortunately abuse. There is physical, verbal, and mental abuse that Pricilla has had to endure. This story has many twist and turns and will have you enduring many emotions. The author has developed her characters to tell her story so that the reader feels connected to them. I loved how this storyline played out.
I did not receive 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 for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others who enjoy the Amish genre.
Congratulations to Amy Clipston for writing another fantastic story for her readers to enjoy. I will be watching for more releases by this author in the future.
November 13, 2018
A Seat by the Hearth by Amy Clipston is book 3 in the Amish Homestead series. I have not read the first two yet. I can honestly say it can be read as a stand alone.
Having read other books by Ms Clipston I was excited to read this one and was not disappointed.
This is a heartwarming story that I did not want to put down. The main characters are great and the story flows. I love Mark, Priscilla, and Ethan. The supporting characters are also likeable.
Clipston tackles the stories of today and shows the Amish have to deal with the same life events of the English.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Having read other books by Ms Clipston I was excited to read this one and was not disappointed.
This is a heartwarming story that I did not want to put down. The main characters are great and the story flows. I love Mark, Priscilla, and Ethan. The supporting characters are also likeable.
Clipston tackles the stories of today and shows the Amish have to deal with the same life events of the English.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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