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The Amish of Southern Maryland #2
The Mending
With autumn’s golden glow, marriage season comes to Southern Maryland’s Amish country in a joyful romance from the author of The Promise. Malinda Stauffer is happy that her gutfrienden Phoebe Yoder may soon be married. Of course, Malinda can’t help wondering about her own future. She hopes someday to find the same contentment as a wife and mother that she has helping her own mamm care for Malinda’s father and five brothers. But a challenging health issue has her convinced no man wants the burden of a fraa who needs rest when there are farms to tend and businesses to run. Adding to her stress is the unwanted attention of an aggressive big city doctor smitten by her—an unsettling distraction she has kept to herself. Timothy Brenneman works alongside Malinda’s brother, Sam, handcrafting the finest Amish furniture in St. Mary’s County. He can’t recall when Sam’s little schweschder blossomed into a beautiful young woman—but he would do anything to hold Malinda close and soothe the sad yearning in her eyes. Sensing her unease at the mention of her doctor only confirms his desire to protect her. Healing, however, is in Gott’s hands, and a hard lesson in the true meaning of love may soon bless them both in ways they never imagined . . .Praise for Susan Lantz Simpson “Susan Lantz Simpson is a talented author and knows how to write authentic Amish fiction.” —She Lives to Read “Not many authors capture the humility of the Amish as well as Susan.” —Suspense Sisters
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 28, 2018
About the author
Susan Lantz Simpson
27 books99 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Susan Lantz Simpson has been writing stories and poetry ever since she penned her first poem at the age of six. She has always loved the magic of words and how they can entertain and enlighten others. Her love of words and books led her to earn a degree in English/Education. She has taught students from Prekindergarten to high school and has also worked as an editor for the federal government. She also holds a degree in nursing and has worked in hospitals and in community health. She writes inspirational stories of love and faith and has published a middle-grade novel (Ginger and the Bully) in addition to her inspirational romances (Plainly Maryland Series and Southern Maryland Amish Romances Series). Her novella, The Christmas Fudge Miracle is included in the USA Today Bestseller Amish Christmas Miracles Collection. She was a finalist in the OCW Cascade fiction contest. She is a member of ACFW. She lives in Maryland and is the mother of two wonderful daughters. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, walking, and doing needlework.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 16, 2018
This is the second book I've read by this author. This is a continuation to the first I read. Taking place in Southern Maryland,Malinda returns home from a relatives house to find the man she thought she had an understanding with having another girlfriend. She develops an interest in a childhood friend,Timothy who unknown to her has had an interest in her for years. He just wants her to be happy even if it does involve her having another boyfriend. With an illness that can be debilitating at times she doesn't feel deserving of love. In her mind, who would want a fraa who could have a debilitating flare up that could have her bedridden for days ? As an overachiever, Malinda's days are filled with cooking, cleaning and basically anything to prove that she is not sickly despite not knowing when her illness could flare. The tables become turned when her love interest becomes injured on the job and he's unsure if he'll be able to continue what he does to earn his lively hood. She now has to convince him he will be a worthy mate. I love seeing, Malinda's strong,persistent personality. She doesn't let her illness hold her back and she is such an encourager to Timothy when he has his time of need. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in this series as I've enjoyed getting to know this family.
Pub Date 28 Aug 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Thank you.All opinions expressed are my own.
Pub Date 28 Aug 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Thank you.All opinions expressed are my own.
August 19, 2018
THE MENDING is the second book in Ms. Simpson's series, and while it does stand alone, fans will want to read The Promise to learn Phoebe's story since it is mentioned in the story.
Malinda suffers from Crohns Disease and compares her plight to Paul (in the Bible) but unlike Paul she wants to marry and have babies. Unfortunately, all the young men in her district knows she suffers from a disease with no cure and no one will have anything to do with her. She's forever doomed to being an old maid.
Not quite true of course. Timothy has known and noticed and liked Malinda forever, but for whatever reason he never asked her for a buggy ride or expressed his interest or anything, so Malinda thinks his sudden concern for her is pity. That's all everyone feels. Even her own mamm thinks she's sickly....
THE MENDING is a sweet romance with all the trauma of young love. My heart hurt for Malinda and I wanted her to know that even with an incurable disease she was still worthy of loving and being loved. Timothy was a true sweetheart, kind and caring and oh-so-considerate. I felt bad for him and his traumatic experience.
I figured the third book would be about the third girl in the trio of friends mentioned in this one, so I read the excerpt for The Reconciliation included at the end of the book and was surprised to see I was wrong! I will admit my interest is piqued by what I read.
Fans of Amish fiction will want to read THE MENDING by Ms. Simpson. It is a sweet, clean, romance with a good faith message the characters have to learn.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
Malinda suffers from Crohns Disease and compares her plight to Paul (in the Bible) but unlike Paul she wants to marry and have babies. Unfortunately, all the young men in her district knows she suffers from a disease with no cure and no one will have anything to do with her. She's forever doomed to being an old maid.
Not quite true of course. Timothy has known and noticed and liked Malinda forever, but for whatever reason he never asked her for a buggy ride or expressed his interest or anything, so Malinda thinks his sudden concern for her is pity. That's all everyone feels. Even her own mamm thinks she's sickly....
THE MENDING is a sweet romance with all the trauma of young love. My heart hurt for Malinda and I wanted her to know that even with an incurable disease she was still worthy of loving and being loved. Timothy was a true sweetheart, kind and caring and oh-so-considerate. I felt bad for him and his traumatic experience.
I figured the third book would be about the third girl in the trio of friends mentioned in this one, so I read the excerpt for The Reconciliation included at the end of the book and was surprised to see I was wrong! I will admit my interest is piqued by what I read.
Fans of Amish fiction will want to read THE MENDING by Ms. Simpson. It is a sweet, clean, romance with a good faith message the characters have to learn.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2018
Malinda is happy to be out of the hospital in Ohio and heading back home to Maryland. As she settles back in the swing of home life she wonders if she will ever share the joy her friend Phoebe has with her boyfriend soon to be fiancé. Malinda has Chron's disease and feels she is a burden to everyone around her, especially her family.
Timothy has been in Malinda's life for as long as anyone can remember as he is her older brother, Sam's, best friend. Timothy has waited patiently for years for Malinda to grow up and be ready to accept suitors. Now that the time has come can he convince Melinda that she will never be a burden to him?
What a beautiful love story between Malinda and Timothy. The love and patience he has for Malinda would make any girl swoon, young or old, English or Amish. Both of them have a strong faith in God and the way it is portrayed is great. The author uses real life experiences to show how God is in each of our lives. The author writes with such knowledge that one would think you were reading a true story and not one of fiction.
This is the second book by Susan Lantz Simpson I have read and I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Book through NetGalley and any all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
Timothy has been in Malinda's life for as long as anyone can remember as he is her older brother, Sam's, best friend. Timothy has waited patiently for years for Malinda to grow up and be ready to accept suitors. Now that the time has come can he convince Melinda that she will never be a burden to him?
What a beautiful love story between Malinda and Timothy. The love and patience he has for Malinda would make any girl swoon, young or old, English or Amish. Both of them have a strong faith in God and the way it is portrayed is great. The author uses real life experiences to show how God is in each of our lives. The author writes with such knowledge that one would think you were reading a true story and not one of fiction.
This is the second book by Susan Lantz Simpson I have read and I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Book through NetGalley and any all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
September 14, 2018
This is a lovely book about the alternative lifestyle of the Amish people in Maryland; in particular, one young lady called Malinda who thinks she will never get a beau because of her occasional bouts of Crohn's disease. This inflammatory digestive condition makes her thin and tired, but she she is determined to carry on with the work of picking and canning, enjoying a busy autumn.
A pesky outside doctor who won't stop writing to the lady only adds to her stress, and every other young person is socialising and pairing off; almost everyone, that is. Timothy the furniture carver is better working with his hands than partying. But Malinda is pretty sure she's not wife material.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction and Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
A pesky outside doctor who won't stop writing to the lady only adds to her stress, and every other young person is socialising and pairing off; almost everyone, that is. Timothy the furniture carver is better working with his hands than partying. But Malinda is pretty sure she's not wife material.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction and Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
August 9, 2018
The author has given us a story that affects so many people, and many have the same decisions, but this one has a twist the patient is Amish, and she has the same wants and desires that most young Amish woman have, to be a wife and mother.
Add a young man who has secretly cared for her for most of his life, and you will think a quick romance, nope, we wonder right to the end if these two can overcome the obstacles to ever being together.
I loved that we are reunited and updated with some the characters from the first book in this series, The Promise, and yes this one can be read alone, and yet there is another one to come, and I personally cannot wait!
I did find this story a bit scary at times, and wondered what was going to happen, some people just won’t take “no” for an answer.
You don’t want to miss this one!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review.
Add a young man who has secretly cared for her for most of his life, and you will think a quick romance, nope, we wonder right to the end if these two can overcome the obstacles to ever being together.
I loved that we are reunited and updated with some the characters from the first book in this series, The Promise, and yes this one can be read alone, and yet there is another one to come, and I personally cannot wait!
I did find this story a bit scary at times, and wondered what was going to happen, some people just won’t take “no” for an answer.
You don’t want to miss this one!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 10, 2018
I got the pleasure of reading this newest book by Susan Lantz Simpson.
I loved it! I finished this book in one day bc it was so very good.
This story will want you to knock some heads together, laugh and cry with the new characters. And yes I even pretended that I was at the table eating dinner with them and boy! Saloma's food is gooooood!!
Im so very glad that Timothy stood his ground where a certain girl was concerned. Now, that's what I call a real man!!! He's everything and more!!
However; Im so proud of Malinda that I wanted to reach in the book and give her a big hug for being the strong woman I know she is.
Oh and before I forget we can't leave the fun loving Atlee out. I had to snicker with him. I do wish that he was the big brother that I never got to have.
This is one Amish story y'all just have to read!!
I received this book for free. All opinions are my own.
I loved it! I finished this book in one day bc it was so very good.
This story will want you to knock some heads together, laugh and cry with the new characters. And yes I even pretended that I was at the table eating dinner with them and boy! Saloma's food is gooooood!!
Im so very glad that Timothy stood his ground where a certain girl was concerned. Now, that's what I call a real man!!! He's everything and more!!
However; Im so proud of Malinda that I wanted to reach in the book and give her a big hug for being the strong woman I know she is.
Oh and before I forget we can't leave the fun loving Atlee out. I had to snicker with him. I do wish that he was the big brother that I never got to have.
This is one Amish story y'all just have to read!!
I received this book for free. All opinions are my own.
August 29, 2018
The Mending by Susan Lantz Simpson takes us to St. Mary’s County, Maryland. Malinda Stauffer is finally heading home after helping her Aunt Mary recover and then suffering a relapse of her Crohn’s disease that ended up with her hospitalized. Her physician, Dr. Todd McWilliams flirted with her, but Malinda did not encourage him, and she hopes the doctor took the hint that she is not interested in him in a romantic way. Malinda’s best friend, Phoebe Yoder is engaged to Ben Miller and will soon be getting married. Isaac was interested in courting Malinda before she departed, and she hopes he has not changed his mind. However, one glimpse of Isaac with Becky, Malinda knows it is too late. Malinda yearns for a normal life like the other young women in her district, but she feels her illness will keep men at bay. There is one man, though, that Malinda cannot keep away from her. Dr. McWilliams is persistent, and the added stress is causing her Crohn’s disease to flare up. Plus, someone is not happy with Dr. McWilliams interest in Malinda and they are sending her threatening notes.
Timothy Brenneman works at the local furniture shop with Malinda’s brother, Sam. Timothy noticed the lovely young woman Malinda has become, but he thought it was too late when he saw her with Isaac. Now that Isaac is courting Becky, Timothy wastes no time in letting Malinda know that he wishes to court her. The problem is convincing Malinda that he loves her and that her disease is not a burden. Follow Timothy and Malinda on their journey in The Mending.
The Mending is the second book in this series and follow The Promise (Phoebe’s story). The Mending can be read as a standalone, but I found it helpful to have read The Promise first. I thought The Mending contained good writing, but the pace was slow in some areas. I sympathized with Malinda who must deal with Crohn’s disease. However, I quickly tired of the lengthy pity party. I kept hoping someone would give her a good, long lecture (a reality check). I enjoyed the descriptions of St. Mary’s County and the daily life of the Amish. I cannot imagine living without a regular washing machine and dryer (or without air conditioning). I felt the situation with Dr. McWilliams was serious, but it felt overly dramatic. I never understood why Malinda would not talk with her parents or someone in authority (I know it is part of the story, but it did not feel realistic). For someone who wishes to marry and have children, Malinda failed to act like an adult. The resolution came about abruptly, and it seemed too easy. I thought the romance between Timothy and Malinda progressed at a realistic pace. However, the back and forth with Malinda saying she would be a burden and Timothy saying he loved her (and wants to marry her) and her condition was not a burden became tiresome. Malinda needed to learn that she is not defined by her illness. I felt that Malinda needed to grow as a person as her relationship with Timothy developed. A few tweaks would have made a difference in the story. Some of the Christian themes present are trusting in the Lord, the power of prayer, have faith in God, and that His grace is sufficient. My rating for The Mending is 3 out of 5 stars. For those readers who enjoy a sweet Amish romance, then come along to St. Mary’s County, Maryland in The Mending. There is a preview of The Reconciliation at the end of the book which will be Atlee’s story.
Timothy Brenneman works at the local furniture shop with Malinda’s brother, Sam. Timothy noticed the lovely young woman Malinda has become, but he thought it was too late when he saw her with Isaac. Now that Isaac is courting Becky, Timothy wastes no time in letting Malinda know that he wishes to court her. The problem is convincing Malinda that he loves her and that her disease is not a burden. Follow Timothy and Malinda on their journey in The Mending.
The Mending is the second book in this series and follow The Promise (Phoebe’s story). The Mending can be read as a standalone, but I found it helpful to have read The Promise first. I thought The Mending contained good writing, but the pace was slow in some areas. I sympathized with Malinda who must deal with Crohn’s disease. However, I quickly tired of the lengthy pity party. I kept hoping someone would give her a good, long lecture (a reality check). I enjoyed the descriptions of St. Mary’s County and the daily life of the Amish. I cannot imagine living without a regular washing machine and dryer (or without air conditioning). I felt the situation with Dr. McWilliams was serious, but it felt overly dramatic. I never understood why Malinda would not talk with her parents or someone in authority (I know it is part of the story, but it did not feel realistic). For someone who wishes to marry and have children, Malinda failed to act like an adult. The resolution came about abruptly, and it seemed too easy. I thought the romance between Timothy and Malinda progressed at a realistic pace. However, the back and forth with Malinda saying she would be a burden and Timothy saying he loved her (and wants to marry her) and her condition was not a burden became tiresome. Malinda needed to learn that she is not defined by her illness. I felt that Malinda needed to grow as a person as her relationship with Timothy developed. A few tweaks would have made a difference in the story. Some of the Christian themes present are trusting in the Lord, the power of prayer, have faith in God, and that His grace is sufficient. My rating for The Mending is 3 out of 5 stars. For those readers who enjoy a sweet Amish romance, then come along to St. Mary’s County, Maryland in The Mending. There is a preview of The Reconciliation at the end of the book which will be Atlee’s story.
September 18, 2018
The Mending brought moments of laughter with the teasing by Malinda Stauffer’s brothers along with tears for her with her chronic health problem of Crohn’s Disease. There was never a dull moment in this story. I really wanted someone to report the unprofessional behavior of Dr. Todd McWilliams, who had treated Malinda in the hospital while she was in Ohio caring for her ailing aunt. Malinda struggled with being home and believing no one would want her as a fraa with her illness, except for one persistent doctor that didn’t understand her no to him. Malinda had no desire to leave her Amish home and was baptized into the church after her return home. She was determined to carry her load of household chores even when she felt ill. Malinda found it was a struggle to be around the community at times as her boyfriend had found someone else while she was in Ohio. The hero in this story, Timothy Brenneman, had cared for her since she tagged along with him and her older brother Sam. The unexpected tragic that transpired while Timothy and Sam was working at the woodwork shop may bring a new awareness to her to accept that she was a loveable individual despite her chronic illness. I appreciated the strong family ties in the Stauffer’s family and the deep concern and care of young Timothy. Readers will enjoy this story more by reading book one, The Promise, since there’s mention of characters from that and all they had endured before finding their partner for life in The Mending.
I received this book from a friend. I was not required to write a review but have shared my own personal thoughts.
I received this book from a friend. I was not required to write a review but have shared my own personal thoughts.
November 25, 2018
Malinda Stauffer wants to marry and have children in her Amish hometown. After coming home from Ohio where she was helping her elderly auntie, she fears her hopes will never be realized because she has Chrone's Disease and has to take lots of expensive meds.
Timothy Brenneman has had his eye on Malinda for years and he makes his move when Malinda's former beau stops courting her. But Malinda isn't sure she wants to saddle any man with a wife who could have a chronic illness. Then to make things even more complicated, the man who treated her in Ohio insists on coming to Malinda's home to try to convince her to come back to Ohio. But she refuses, and fears what her father may do if he finds out what the doctor has in mind.
But the big question is whether Malinda can see that she is more than her illness, the answer of which only comes when Timothy is threatened with an injury that could spell the end of his work as a furniture maker.
Timothy Brenneman has had his eye on Malinda for years and he makes his move when Malinda's former beau stops courting her. But Malinda isn't sure she wants to saddle any man with a wife who could have a chronic illness. Then to make things even more complicated, the man who treated her in Ohio insists on coming to Malinda's home to try to convince her to come back to Ohio. But she refuses, and fears what her father may do if he finds out what the doctor has in mind.
But the big question is whether Malinda can see that she is more than her illness, the answer of which only comes when Timothy is threatened with an injury that could spell the end of his work as a furniture maker.
September 17, 2018
I've read several Amish books recently, but none that focused so much on the main character feeling bad about herself. The entire book was "woe is me, I have a medical condition." This was literally the premise of the entire book. The "challenging health condition" referenced in the blurb was exaggerated significantly. The "challenge" was every so often she might need to go to a hospital, she MIGHT need surgery in the future and she needs medication. Honestly it was her self esteem that was more challenging then the illness was.
September 21, 2018
I loved this book!! Great story!! 3rd book I read by this author!! Will read more of her books!!
July 2, 2024
Malinda was annoying. All she did was complain.
July 3, 2018
Malinda Stauffer can’t help but wonder what the future holds for her, especially as she is dealing with a health challenge. She is sure no man will want her as a fraa. She feels like a burden to her family, which adds to her stress and fuels her flare-ups.
Englischer Dr. Todd McWilliams cared for Malinda after a recent flare-up, and he is determined to win her heart and make her his wife. However, if Timothy Brenneman has anything to say about it, Todd will not succeed. Timothy works with Malinda’s brother, and Timothy’s had his eye on her for some time, though she has no clue he views her as anything more than Sam’s schweschder. Can Timothy convince Malinda that she’s worthy of love … specifically his love?
Malinda is a heroine that is well-drawn and easy to root for. The challenges associated with Crohn’s Disease and the impact it has on someone’s life (as well as the lives of those around them) are accurately depicted. The characters will have the readers near tears at times (sometimes from wanting to laugh, and others from wanting to cry). The secondary characters are key to the story, and I look forward to seeing them in upcoming books. Lantz really makes the reader feel a part of the family. Timothy is caring and easy for the reader to love, especially as he is in stark contrast to Todd’s aggressive nature. A preview of the next book is included, and I can’t wait to read it 😊
One of my favorite quotes (and also a great reminder for those dealing with a chronic illness): “Don’t let your illness define you… You are not your disease.”
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
Englischer Dr. Todd McWilliams cared for Malinda after a recent flare-up, and he is determined to win her heart and make her his wife. However, if Timothy Brenneman has anything to say about it, Todd will not succeed. Timothy works with Malinda’s brother, and Timothy’s had his eye on her for some time, though she has no clue he views her as anything more than Sam’s schweschder. Can Timothy convince Malinda that she’s worthy of love … specifically his love?
Malinda is a heroine that is well-drawn and easy to root for. The challenges associated with Crohn’s Disease and the impact it has on someone’s life (as well as the lives of those around them) are accurately depicted. The characters will have the readers near tears at times (sometimes from wanting to laugh, and others from wanting to cry). The secondary characters are key to the story, and I look forward to seeing them in upcoming books. Lantz really makes the reader feel a part of the family. Timothy is caring and easy for the reader to love, especially as he is in stark contrast to Todd’s aggressive nature. A preview of the next book is included, and I can’t wait to read it 😊
One of my favorite quotes (and also a great reminder for those dealing with a chronic illness): “Don’t let your illness define you… You are not your disease.”
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
July 23, 2018
There are points where the book drags, I have to admit, but it has quite a lot of the daily life description that I love in Amish or Homestead romances. Everything with the doctor was a bit overdramatic for my tastes, and it stayed the same level of menace with every encounter until it went away abruptly. Still, it was somewhat necessary to break up the constant "I'm too much of a burden to get married" "well, I still want to marry you" back and forth between Malinda and Timothy. While their love grew at a realistic rate with the time they spent together, the worry about Crohn's was static and didn't fluctuate as she grew to know and trust Timothy, although I wish it had.
March 1, 2025
The Mending is the 2nd book in The Amish of Southern Maryland series. Malinda Stauffer has crohn's disease and often has serious flare ups. She doesn't want to burden anyone with her issues and is hoping to find a job so she can support herself. She ended up in the hospital in Ohio, while there helping an elderly relative and this only cements that decision. Her doctor offers her the opportunity to remain in Ohio and marry him, turning mennonite, and with him there to care for her, but she wants no part of that. When she returns to her community, she is happy to see her friend Phoebe Yoder preparing for her wedding. Her previous beau has taken up with another young girl from the community and Malinda is okay with that, although she worries about them "jumping the fence". Timothy Brenneman works alongside Malinda’s brother, Sam, handcrafting the finest Amish furniture in St. Mary’s County, and suddenly sees the lovely Malinda in a new light. He would love to make her his wife and take care of her, but doesn't want to push. When the doctor reappears and Timothy has an accident, Malinda realized that maybe she can have a happy life as a wife and mother after all.
I really enjoyed The Mending. The characters are well developed and realistic. There are a lot of issues that Amish families deal with, but they are ones that others see as well. My daughter has crohn's disease, so I understand what Malinda was going through, although the medical care is different. I liked how Timothy treaded Malinda. She was his friend, and wanted her to be happy. He was sweet and didn't push her, but was there when she needed him. There are six books in this series and I am looking forward to reading more about the people I have met so far in this series. If you enjoy an amish fiction story, with some suspense, lots of friendship, some drama and a side of romance, then I recommend you pick this one up.
I really enjoyed The Mending. The characters are well developed and realistic. There are a lot of issues that Amish families deal with, but they are ones that others see as well. My daughter has crohn's disease, so I understand what Malinda was going through, although the medical care is different. I liked how Timothy treaded Malinda. She was his friend, and wanted her to be happy. He was sweet and didn't push her, but was there when she needed him. There are six books in this series and I am looking forward to reading more about the people I have met so far in this series. If you enjoy an amish fiction story, with some suspense, lots of friendship, some drama and a side of romance, then I recommend you pick this one up.
August 14, 2018
The Mending, book 2 in Susan Lantz Simpson’s newest series, is about coming to terms with oneself despite the flaws and accepting that sometimes God’s grace is enough. This is the second book by Simpson that I have had the honor of reading and once again I enjoyed it immensely.
Malinda Stauffer wants nothing more than to have the typical Amish fraa’s life, but one thing stands in her way, Chron’s Disease. Malinda struggles with her worth and the realization that maybe God will not offer healing no matter how much she prays.
Timothy Brenneman wants nothing more than to take care of Malinda, but he can’t seem to find a way to get through to her that she isn’t a burden.
I really related to Malinda in that I think we all have something that makes us feel inferior at times, like we are not a whole person. I liked how Simpson added the element of the stalker as this is not something you generally see in Amish Inspirational books. It added a second issue to Malinda’s life and a reason to cause her to have additional flare-ups which in turn caused her to question her worth even more. I loved that she ended up confiding in someone because struggling with those issues is not something one needs to do alone.
For those who have not read book one, fear not as this can easily be read as a stand-alone novel although I do recommend going back and reading Phoebe’s story.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Kensington Books, and netgalley.com in return for my honest opinion. All comments are my own.
Malinda Stauffer wants nothing more than to have the typical Amish fraa’s life, but one thing stands in her way, Chron’s Disease. Malinda struggles with her worth and the realization that maybe God will not offer healing no matter how much she prays.
Timothy Brenneman wants nothing more than to take care of Malinda, but he can’t seem to find a way to get through to her that she isn’t a burden.
I really related to Malinda in that I think we all have something that makes us feel inferior at times, like we are not a whole person. I liked how Simpson added the element of the stalker as this is not something you generally see in Amish Inspirational books. It added a second issue to Malinda’s life and a reason to cause her to have additional flare-ups which in turn caused her to question her worth even more. I loved that she ended up confiding in someone because struggling with those issues is not something one needs to do alone.
For those who have not read book one, fear not as this can easily be read as a stand-alone novel although I do recommend going back and reading Phoebe’s story.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Kensington Books, and netgalley.com in return for my honest opinion. All comments are my own.
August 29, 2018
Malinda Stauffer wants more than anything to be a wife and have many children, as that is what's expected of the Amish. But, she has Crohn's disease and worries no man will ever want to take on the responsibilities that comes with her illness. How could she possible run a household during a flare up? Then, there's the expense of her medications.
She traveled to Ohio to help care for an aunt who had broken her hip. While there, Malinda, had such a horrible flare up that it put her in the hospital. Her doctor, Dr. Todd McWilliams, took a liking to her. He made his feelings known to Malinda, and she made her feelings known to him. She did not share his interest. I felt he behaved in 'stalking' and psycho behaviors, as he wouldn't take 'no' for an answer and even showed up at her parents home, once she returned there. He also wrote her letters. It just all seemed too unbelievable. I think I could have given five stars if the entire scene with the doctor having feelings for her had been omitted.
Then, there is Timothy, who works with Malinda's brother, Sam, making furniture. Malinda was so wrong in thinking that he only saw her as her brothers little sister.
Can Malinda ever get past thinking she'll never marry? That her illness is something that will keep her single for life? That she'll have to learn to be content to being an aunt to her brothers children?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
She traveled to Ohio to help care for an aunt who had broken her hip. While there, Malinda, had such a horrible flare up that it put her in the hospital. Her doctor, Dr. Todd McWilliams, took a liking to her. He made his feelings known to Malinda, and she made her feelings known to him. She did not share his interest. I felt he behaved in 'stalking' and psycho behaviors, as he wouldn't take 'no' for an answer and even showed up at her parents home, once she returned there. He also wrote her letters. It just all seemed too unbelievable. I think I could have given five stars if the entire scene with the doctor having feelings for her had been omitted.
Then, there is Timothy, who works with Malinda's brother, Sam, making furniture. Malinda was so wrong in thinking that he only saw her as her brothers little sister.
Can Malinda ever get past thinking she'll never marry? That her illness is something that will keep her single for life? That she'll have to learn to be content to being an aunt to her brothers children?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 2, 2018
I loved The Mending. It was so well written and really gives us an inside view of what it is like to live with a chronic illness.
Malinda Stauffer leaves her community in Maryland to go to Ohio to visit her aunt and help take care of her after an injury. While Malinda is in Ohio, she has a flare up of her illness and lands in the hospital. A doctor at the hospital becomes interested in Malinda, but Malinda has no interest in him and tries to make that clear. When Malinda is discharged from the hospital, she returns to her community in Maryland. As Malinda settles back into her community, she continues to heal and get stronger. But she lives with fear of her illness flaring up again. She also believes no man would want her for his wife because of her illness.
Timothy Brenneman is a friend of one of Malinda's brother. Timothy has wanted to tell Malinda that he has feelings for her for a long time. Now that Malinda is back in the community, Timothy takes a chance and begins to talk with Malinda and let her know he in interested in her. Malinda responds well to Timothy and the two begin to spend time together, but Malinda's fear of making a husband live with her illness keeps her from getting serious with Timothy. When the doctor from Ohio returns to the community to see Malinda, things get very dicey and Malinda has no idea how to handle it.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest feedback.
Malinda Stauffer leaves her community in Maryland to go to Ohio to visit her aunt and help take care of her after an injury. While Malinda is in Ohio, she has a flare up of her illness and lands in the hospital. A doctor at the hospital becomes interested in Malinda, but Malinda has no interest in him and tries to make that clear. When Malinda is discharged from the hospital, she returns to her community in Maryland. As Malinda settles back into her community, she continues to heal and get stronger. But she lives with fear of her illness flaring up again. She also believes no man would want her for his wife because of her illness.
Timothy Brenneman is a friend of one of Malinda's brother. Timothy has wanted to tell Malinda that he has feelings for her for a long time. Now that Malinda is back in the community, Timothy takes a chance and begins to talk with Malinda and let her know he in interested in her. Malinda responds well to Timothy and the two begin to spend time together, but Malinda's fear of making a husband live with her illness keeps her from getting serious with Timothy. When the doctor from Ohio returns to the community to see Malinda, things get very dicey and Malinda has no idea how to handle it.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest feedback.
October 21, 2018
The Mending is another fantastic story written by Susan Lantz Simpson in her newest series set in Maryland's Amish country. This story takes on a journey with a young Amish lady who suffers with Crohn's desease. The struggles she is faced with causes her toquit thinking of marriage and afamily of her own. That is until a certain family friend starts showing an interest in her.
I loved the characters the author has utilized to help tell her story. She gives wondetful descriptions so that the readers can imagine them throughout the story. I also enjoyed getting to se what is happening with the characters of previous stories. The storyline is simply amazing and is clearly a page turner. There were a couple of characters that I didn't care for to much but you can decide for yourself. I loved the family dynamics in Malinda's family. She has three older brothers who definitely have her best interestat heart but heryounger brother Aden was a real hoot. Theiris a lot of love in this family and their faith is very strong.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Susan Lantz Simpson for delivering another amazing story for her readers to enjoy and I look forward to more amazing stories from this author in the future.
I loved the characters the author has utilized to help tell her story. She gives wondetful descriptions so that the readers can imagine them throughout the story. I also enjoyed getting to se what is happening with the characters of previous stories. The storyline is simply amazing and is clearly a page turner. There were a couple of characters that I didn't care for to much but you can decide for yourself. I loved the family dynamics in Malinda's family. She has three older brothers who definitely have her best interestat heart but heryounger brother Aden was a real hoot. Theiris a lot of love in this family and their faith is very strong.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Susan Lantz Simpson for delivering another amazing story for her readers to enjoy and I look forward to more amazing stories from this author in the future.
September 4, 2018
This is a well-written, clean, Amish fiction, and one I think you will enjoy. I give it five stars.
Melinda Stauffer is Amish to the very core. She has no desire to leave her church or her community. She has difficulties convincing her doctor, Todd McWilliams, of that. Obviously, not many women have resisted the handsome man's charms, especially Nurse Trudy. She tries to warn Melinda away.
Melinda goes home, pondering the depth of her health affliction and the probability that, no matter how careful she is, it will recur, sending her over and over again to the hospital. The young man she thought was contemplating courtship dumped her for another young woman while she was away with this most recent illness.
It's probably for the best. In an Amish household, every hand is needed, every person busy all day every day. No Amish man should be saddled with a wife who can't pull her share of the load.
Another young man, Timothy Brennemann, tries hard to convince her otherwise while the doctor tries to convince her to run away with him. Melinda firmly and quietly resists both.
Until ... Oh, wait. I can't tell you that. You'll need to buy the book. Available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but my opinions are my own.
Melinda Stauffer is Amish to the very core. She has no desire to leave her church or her community. She has difficulties convincing her doctor, Todd McWilliams, of that. Obviously, not many women have resisted the handsome man's charms, especially Nurse Trudy. She tries to warn Melinda away.
Melinda goes home, pondering the depth of her health affliction and the probability that, no matter how careful she is, it will recur, sending her over and over again to the hospital. The young man she thought was contemplating courtship dumped her for another young woman while she was away with this most recent illness.
It's probably for the best. In an Amish household, every hand is needed, every person busy all day every day. No Amish man should be saddled with a wife who can't pull her share of the load.
Another young man, Timothy Brennemann, tries hard to convince her otherwise while the doctor tries to convince her to run away with him. Melinda firmly and quietly resists both.
Until ... Oh, wait. I can't tell you that. You'll need to buy the book. Available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but my opinions are my own.
August 4, 2021
2nd book in series, my 1st book by author
I did read a Christmas novella by MS Simpson last year. It wasn't until I was 40+% into the book before I felt the tug of wanting to know what would happen next or how will author resolve this situation.
Melinda has Crohn's disease and one thing this book will do is enlighten you on how difficult the disease is to manage. And how stress can make it much worse.
An interesting part of the plot is the doctor who treated her while she was away from home and before she is released from hospital, is acting inappropriately with his patient. I'm giving nothing major away here. This comes out at the very beginning of the book.
Then there is the tacky Amish princess (only in her mind but her behavior makes you think of someone who sees themselves on a throne higher than the rest of us) who is Miss Nasty to Melinda and Miss Can You See My Eyelashes Flutter to Melissa's possible beau.
And then there is Timothy who has loved Melinda for years and waited for her to grow up. She sees herself as permanently broken. She can’t burden him with her illness AND the cost.
But my favorite character turns out to be one of Melissa's big brothers, Atlee. You might not like him at first but, trust me, he will grow on you.
I did read a Christmas novella by MS Simpson last year. It wasn't until I was 40+% into the book before I felt the tug of wanting to know what would happen next or how will author resolve this situation.
Melinda has Crohn's disease and one thing this book will do is enlighten you on how difficult the disease is to manage. And how stress can make it much worse.
An interesting part of the plot is the doctor who treated her while she was away from home and before she is released from hospital, is acting inappropriately with his patient. I'm giving nothing major away here. This comes out at the very beginning of the book.
Then there is the tacky Amish princess (only in her mind but her behavior makes you think of someone who sees themselves on a throne higher than the rest of us) who is Miss Nasty to Melinda and Miss Can You See My Eyelashes Flutter to Melissa's possible beau.
And then there is Timothy who has loved Melinda for years and waited for her to grow up. She sees herself as permanently broken. She can’t burden him with her illness AND the cost.
But my favorite character turns out to be one of Melissa's big brothers, Atlee. You might not like him at first but, trust me, he will grow on you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2018
I was intrigued to learn that this book based on Amish characters had a female lead with Crohn's Disease. It certainly brought to my mind the times I have wondered if I had gotten my own diagnosis when still single just how I would have dealt with the idea of putting my life's burden on to a man's shoulders. I can understand how the character, Melinda could react as she does in the story.
I was amused when reading about some of the things she ate as they would have sent me running to the bathroom in pain.
I really liked the male characters, Timothy and Atlee. Tim has wisdom, strength and kindness.
Now, in all honesty, I feel like there were too many protagonists and that disrupted the smooth flow of the plot. This is my personal reaction which could be based on my experience with many members of the medical community. One person would have been reasonable along with one problematic Amish girl but the inclusion of both nurse and doctor was a bit of a stretch.
Overall the inclusion of Crohn's Disease was handled well and I appreciate that the author brought it forward as a subject that others could become more aware of.
My thanks to Zebra and NetGalley for my copy of this book. I certainly want to read more by this author.
I was amused when reading about some of the things she ate as they would have sent me running to the bathroom in pain.
I really liked the male characters, Timothy and Atlee. Tim has wisdom, strength and kindness.
Now, in all honesty, I feel like there were too many protagonists and that disrupted the smooth flow of the plot. This is my personal reaction which could be based on my experience with many members of the medical community. One person would have been reasonable along with one problematic Amish girl but the inclusion of both nurse and doctor was a bit of a stretch.
Overall the inclusion of Crohn's Disease was handled well and I appreciate that the author brought it forward as a subject that others could become more aware of.
My thanks to Zebra and NetGalley for my copy of this book. I certainly want to read more by this author.
July 6, 2018
I was fortunate to receive an advanced reading copy (which mean it's an uncorrected proof) of this little gem, but I found no errors in the writing/editing one might find in this type of copy. Simpson takes us into the life of the Amish giving us a glimpse into their attitudes about their faith and daily life.
When protagonist Malinda, living with a chronic illness, ends up in a hospital several states away, she is surrounded with the Englisch (Amish/German spelling comes up throughout the book and is done in a way it adds, not distracts) lifestyle. When the doctor shows inappropriate behavior towards her, she can't get home fast enough.
Malinda ponders throughout the story whether she will ever marry. She does not want to be a burden to a husband. But God intervenes and, with a twist, she is shown that those who love her want to help. One brother helps her with the problems surrounding the Ohio doctor and we shout Hooray!
A sweet story of faith, family, and love.
When protagonist Malinda, living with a chronic illness, ends up in a hospital several states away, she is surrounded with the Englisch (Amish/German spelling comes up throughout the book and is done in a way it adds, not distracts) lifestyle. When the doctor shows inappropriate behavior towards her, she can't get home fast enough.
Malinda ponders throughout the story whether she will ever marry. She does not want to be a burden to a husband. But God intervenes and, with a twist, she is shown that those who love her want to help. One brother helps her with the problems surrounding the Ohio doctor and we shout Hooray!
A sweet story of faith, family, and love.
October 5, 2018
I really enjoyed this well-written and well-plotted story. It has everything I like about Amish fiction--the simpler lifestyle with a cast of characters big on family.
When Malinda goes to help her aunt after surgery, she suffers a flare-up with her Crohn's disease and has to be hospitalized. The doctor who treats her becomes smitten with her, causing her all sorts of problems, then when she returns home, the man she thought she would marry has a new girlfriend. Now Malina believes no man will want her because of her illness. Except for Timothy who had loved her for years. She rebuffs him because she doesn't think it's fair to saddle him with an ill wife. Malinda had a lot of spunk and a very strong sense of right and wrong.
Susan Lantz Simpson did a great job of showing how Malinda, and then Timothy learned to depend on God instead of fearing the future. It's a heartwarming story that will leave you feeling good about the world. And we certainly need that.
When Malinda goes to help her aunt after surgery, she suffers a flare-up with her Crohn's disease and has to be hospitalized. The doctor who treats her becomes smitten with her, causing her all sorts of problems, then when she returns home, the man she thought she would marry has a new girlfriend. Now Malina believes no man will want her because of her illness. Except for Timothy who had loved her for years. She rebuffs him because she doesn't think it's fair to saddle him with an ill wife. Malinda had a lot of spunk and a very strong sense of right and wrong.
Susan Lantz Simpson did a great job of showing how Malinda, and then Timothy learned to depend on God instead of fearing the future. It's a heartwarming story that will leave you feeling good about the world. And we certainly need that.
August 30, 2018
Malinda Stauffer went to Ohio to care for her aunt and ended up in the hospital when her Crohn’s Disease flared up. There, she unwittingly captured the attention of her young doctor. She is eager to return home to her Amish life and to join the church. However, she wonders if she’ll ever marry and have children because of the limitations of her chronic illness. Her brother’s friend Timothy Brenneman has been waiting for Malinda to grow up. Can he convince her he will be there for her no matter what? Challenges trouble their peaceful lives. Will they be able to overcome them and find happiness together, or will Malinda hold on to her belief that she shouldn’t saddle anyone with her burden? The characters seem authentic and make you care. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
May 14, 2019
Now I really should have realized these were part of a series, I read the one that comes after this one so I knew how it ended already so to speak! I felt so bad for Malinda, I can't imagine what it's like to live with a condition that's as debilitating as hers can be. That Doctor of hers was a HUGE creeper, and I was genuinely surprised he backed off so seemingly easily after driving so far to see her.
She did find a good man in Timothy though, it made me laugh a bit to see her throw his own words about sickness and health back at him when their situations were reversed! I'm looking forward to the rest of the books in this series now.
She did find a good man in Timothy though, it made me laugh a bit to see her throw his own words about sickness and health back at him when their situations were reversed! I'm looking forward to the rest of the books in this series now.
August 6, 2018
This book was my first one I read by this author and I loved it. I found it different than other Amish books I read and enjoyed it very much. I am looking forward to more of this story. This book kept me interested from the beginning to the end and I felt it had some interesting turns. If you love Amish books you will certainly enjoy this one. Thank You NetGalley allowing me to read for a honest review.
September 15, 2018
This is the second book in Simpson's The Amish of Southern MD series, & it's a continuation of the story, though the main female character in the story is one we just met at the end of the first story, Malinda. It's an interesting story where the two main characters learn to trust God w/ their future. If you read the first book, you'll definitely want to read this one. The third book, "The Reconciliation," is due to be out at the end of Feb. I'll be looking forward to it.
April 1, 2021
This is the second book I have read by this author and it didn't disappoint. She does a great job of creating believable characters. In this story, a character has a health condition that can be very difficult to live with. I felt like I was in the story with her. Also, because I'm pretty food-motivated (I'm like my dog that way), I really enjoy reading and imagining the delicious food described! This was an enjoyable book in so many ways. Keep them coming, Ms. Simpson.
July 12, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Susan Lantz Simpson and I absolutely loved it! This is a very well written book and I can't wait to see what she writes next. If you like Amish fiction, you will really enjoy this book. Thank you NetGalley and Kingston Books Zebra for an ARC copy of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.
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