From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four stories about reuniting with those you love.
Their True Home by Amy Clipston
When Marlene Bawell moved from Bird-in-Hand ten years ago, she was in the deepest of mourning for her mother. Now they have moved back so her father can seek employment after being laid off. To help save money, Marlene works at the hardware store owned by Rudy Swarey’s father. She knew Rudy growing up and didn’t think much of him—because he was so immature! But just as she starts to realize how much Rudy has changed, her life is once again turned upside down. Will Marlene ever have a chance to find her own true home?
A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman
Elizabeth and Gideon Beiler experienced one of life’s most tragic events. Unable to get past their grief, the couple abandoned their Amish faith and went in different directions, though neither could bear to formally dissolve the marriage. When their loved ones reach out to them to come home for a family reunion, Elizabeth has reason to believe that Gideon won’t be there. Gideon also thinks that Elizabeth has declined the invitation. Family and friends are rooting for them to reunite, but will it all be enough for Elizabeth and Gideon to get past their grief and recapture a time when they were in love and had a bright future ahead of them?
A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller
Cevilla Schlabach, Birch Creek’s resident octogenarian matchmaker, is surprised when Richard, a man from her Englisch past, arrives in Birch Creek for a visit. While he and Cevilla take several walks down memory lane, they wonder what the future holds for them at this stage of life—friendship, or the possibility of something else?
Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin
At eighteen Hannah Kauffman made a terrible mistake. Her parents and members of her Jamesport Amish community say they’ve forgiven her. But she feels their eyes following her everywhere she goes with eighteen-month-old Molly. Thaddeus, Molly’s father, escaped this fate by running away to Jamesport. Now that Thaddeus is gone, Hannah’s old friend Phillip is stepping up to be by her side. He has waited patiently for Hannah to realize just how much he cares for her. But when Thaddeus returns after two years, Hannah can’t deny the love she feels for him. Does the fact that Phillip has waited patiently for her all this time mean that she owes him something? Can she trust either one of them? Can she trust herself? She has repented and been forgiven by the One who is most important—her heavenly Father. But is she willing to risk making more mistakes by opening herself up to love?
Hi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.
Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish) The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021) The View from Coral Cove (2022) On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022) Something Old, Something New (2023) Starstruck (2023) Finding You (2024) With This Ring (2025) Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025) The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)
Stand Alone Amish Fiction Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)
Guideposts Amish Suspense A Heart Set Free (9/2025)
An Amish Legacy 1. Foundation of Love (2022) 2. Building a Future (2022) 3. Breaking New Ground (2023) 4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)
An Amish Marketplace 1. The Bake Shop (2019) 2. The Farm Stand (2020) 3. The Coffee Corner (2020) 4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)
An Amish Homestead 1. A Place at our Table (2017) 2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018) 3. Seat by the Hearth (2018) 4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)
An Amish Heirloom 1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015) 2. The Courtship Basket (2016) 3. The Cherished Quilt (2017) 4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)
Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel 1. A Hopeful Heart (2013) 2. A Mother’s Secret (2014) 3. A Dream of Home (2015) 4. A Simple Prayer (2015)
Kauffman Amish Bakery 1. A Gift of Grace (2009) 2. A Promise of Hope (2010) 3. A Place of Peace (2011) 4. A Life of Joy (2012) 5. A Season of Love (2012)
Amish Anthologies • An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story) • An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret) • An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe) • An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket) • An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story) • An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story) • Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer • An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table • An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table • Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love • An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing • An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story) • An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston) • An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story) • An Amish Barn Raising (2021) • An Amish Schoolroom (2021) • An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)
Young Adult 1. Roadside Assistance (2011) 2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book) 3. Destination Unknown (2014) 4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)
Non-Fiction A Gift of Love (2014)
Seasonal • A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011) • Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012) • An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift • An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat • An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) • An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) • On the Way to Christmas (2022)
This is a novella collection of four Amish short stories. Let me tell you how much I enjoyed every story here. I've read many book by all of these popular Amish genre writing authors and the shorter stories don't make the stories any less enjoyable. All of these novellas have complete story lines and I loved them! They all revolve around some type of reunion. We all sin and do wrong sometimes pretty big, wrongs,I love seeing how freely forgiveness is given among the Amish. Pub Date 09 Apr 2019. I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own. Check out this and all my reviews on my blog https://cnnamongirl.wixsite.com/website
A book that read like M&M’s, you can’t read just one and leave, they draw you in so that you don’t want to leave, and keep on page turning. Each story offers something different, but all take place within an Amish community, and bring smiles and tears. With one I was reading a conclusion to a story I had been following and loved being back with old friends. Four novellas by four of my favorite authors and life is fun, and each of these offer a different read, and a different age group of characters, and I highly recommend them!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.
Wow....I had gotten used to the formulaic writing of these four-book omnibuses, but this one really surprised me! Each of the stories plays around the central theme of reunification of a couple, whether previously romantically involved or not, but all four are very different stories. One involves friends who have suffered loss, another involves a couple who had a child out of wedlock, and yet another involves the loss of a child. My favorite, however, involved an elderly couple from different backgrounds -- it was my favorite because I recently read a full-length novel featuring these two (further down the road) and it was so sweet to have this backstory and understand where and how their relationship began. Many of these stories are tie-ins to full-length novels, or even series, that add interesting tidbits. If you find one that's connected to something you've read, you'll probably enjoy it the most! That said, you do not have to have read anything else to both follow and enjoy these stories.
An Amish Reunion : Four Stories By: Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, and Kelly Irvin
An Amish Reunion is about four Amish authors writing Amish stories about reuniting with those you love.
Their True Home By: Amy Clipston This is a story about Marlene and her dedication to her family. Will she ever have a home and love? I really loved this story.
A Reunion of Hearts By: Beth Wiseman A Couple is faced with a tragic event in their lives that you don’t hear about much in the Amish. Will their love overcome everything else? Do they have a future together? I really enjoyed this story very much.
A Chance To Remember By: Kathleen Fuller This story was so sweet. Is second chances real ? Can they happen when you are older.
Mended Hearts By: Kelly Irvin Forgiveness and second chances. Another story that you don’t hear much about in the Amish. Will there be a second chance? Loved this story and felt so sorry for Hannah.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I loved this book. I liked it because there are 4 different stories all of them about a reunion of some type or other. There's something in these novellas for all different types of people. I used to not like these stories until I found out that some are a continuation of several of my favorite books by certain authors. Here are two I never tire of hearing about and Cevilla is my most favorite character of all. I love her spunk, ability to love and help others no matter the need. And, I'm also pretty sure she still looks good even after all these years!! She reminds of my own grandmother on my mom's side. Here are my two favorites that I enjoyed:
A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller I love Kathleen's stories about Cevilla because she's an interesting person. I enjoyed this novella but problem is it's too short!! It's like there's more left waiting to be told!! I feel you're never too old to love again or to be loved. God has his reasons. I love to think that maybe someday that Cevilla will marry the love of her life. I just hope it's not too late for either of them!! Next up is Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin!! Now this is an author you must definitely read!! She is on my long list of favorite authors to read!!
Mended Hearts is another 2nd chance at love story!! I really admire Hannah!! She has taken a lot of the brunt while a certain someone runs away. Ain't that like most men? Men that don't wanna take responsibility? I guess it takes a lot for some men to grow up and take responsibility. We know of one such person don't we? This why I like Kelly's writing. I could actually feel these characters pain throughout this novella. I But God has a way of working things out doesn't he. I enjoyed watching these two change their ways and I just loved little Eve. I could her Eve when she's happy or howls lol!
I strongly recommend this book for ppl who love to read Amish Romances in one book. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher with no compensations received. All opinions are my own!
An Amish Reunion is an anthology by four of my favourite author's of Amish Fiction. Each of these stories is a second chance romance, which is a bit different. One has a young woman returning home to her childhood community and realizing that a boy she grew up with is still single and they are attracted to one another; a story about a couple getting divorced but when they help each other heal after the death of their child, their feelings change; a woman who had a child out of wedlock, but the father of her child returns and wants to marry her; and a pair of older, mature childhood friends that realize they want to spend their final years together.
Although these were novellas, I felt the characters were well developed and the stories long enough to feel like a complete story. I liked that they featured characters of various ages and situations. Each story was emotional and heartwarming. The characters all had to do some soul searching and in some cases ask for forgiveness. A wonderful book I recommend to those who enjoy Amish Fiction and Romance.
An Amish Reunion by Amy Clipson, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin is a wonderful compilation of 4 sweet stories of different Amish reunions. The stories were heartwarming, fun to read and very enjoyable. I loved Kelly Irvin's book which centered around the location of Jamesport, the first Amish town that I personally visited and so it made it a great read for me as I could picture the town and the people as I saw them there.
Each story was individual and unique and different to read. Some of the topics were very serious and thought provoking. I think it was a realistic way to present some difficult and hard issues of the Amish. Sometimes we don't read about the difficulties that also come to them as well.
A very good book. I am very glad that I was able to read it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Four great Amish authors and four wonderful stories about Amish life. The first story Their True Home by Amy Clipston has to do with the reunion of children all grown up meeting again. When Marlene Bawell's family has to move back to Bird In Hand, it's been ten years, and she is all grown up and so is the boy, Rudy, whom she had a crush on in elementary school. Love and a sweet relationship by one of my favorite authors. A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman is about love lost. Ruth and Gideon were married but when circumstances beyond their control and grief has taken a toll on their marriage. Unable to get past their grief but, also, unable to dissolve their marriage they leave their families and Amish faith to find two different paths in life. So, when they are each invited to a family reunion they both believe that the other will not be there. AHA! Can their grief be mended? A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller is a fun read. A matchmaker in her eighties is surprised when a man from her past arrives in her small town. Can a matchmaker take a chance on love so late in life? Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin pens a somewhat sad tale of a young girls who makes an unwise decision. Even though the community all say they have forgiven her, she constantly feels the eyes of ht people are upon her as she and her daughter go throughout the community. Can love over come obstacles? Four great short stories in one book! And all such fantastic stories.
I love reading novellas, specifically Amish novellas. They are short, quick reads full of life, love, beautiful characters and inspirational messages. Each author creates a story that is different, yet within the collections they blend beautifully.
I loved all four of these novellas but my favorite was Amy Clipston’s Their True Home. I love Clipston’s writing style and how she instantly hooks you into the story. Her characters are flawed, yet perfect. Her messages flow magnificently within the story and by the time you realize you’re at the end of the story, you want more.
In Their True Home, Marlene returns home, and reconnects with old friends, especially Rudy. But, it’s not easy, and God truly is felt through this story of renewal, faith, and hope. Clipston had me hooked from page one, and I felt myself being transported to Bird-In-Hand, working along side Rudy and Marlene, feeling the emotional roller coaster they went through. The connection between Rudy and Marlene is powerful, and I loved watching them find their true place in life!
If you love the simplicity of the Amish life, the way they love with all they have and the way they believe in hope and forgiveness, then order this book now. It’s filled with tender characters, hope filled messages and beautiful writing styles. Definitely 4 star worthy!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, Zondervan and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
An Amish Reunion is a collection of four Amish stories. These stories include: Their True Home by Amy Clipston A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin I enjoyed this collection and am giving it four and a half stars.
An Amish Reunion is a very well-written and enjoyable group of novellas. Each novella is independent of the others in the collection, however, they all have a theme of reunion and coming home.
I enjoyed all four novellas a lot. I had two favorites stories in this collection, A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman and Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin. These two novellas really captured so much angst from the past and I felt very invested in hoping that these couples could reconcile and have a future together.
I definitely recommend this collection and enjoyed each of the four novellas that are included in it.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
An Amish Reunion contains four charming Amish stories by Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kelly Irvin and Kathleen Fuller. Their True Home by Amy Clipston takes us to Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania. Marlene Bawell is happy her family has returned to her hometown after ten years. Her father was laid off from the RV factory in Indiana and was unable to find other work. Marlene wants to help her father save for a place of their own and obtains a job at Lancaster Hardware & Supply owned by Rudy Swarey’s father. Rudy and Marlene went to school together and she had a crush on him as a teen. Rudy is taken with Marlene and can tell she needs a friend. They become close while working together. Before they can take the next step in their relationship, Marlene’s father has an announcement.
Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman has us journeying to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Ruth and Gideon Beiler lost their daughter five years earlier. Their grief drove the couple apart and away from their Amish faith. Ruth has returned for her family’s reunion and to help Gideon get their home ready to sell. While Ruth and Gideon have been living in separate states, they are still married. When Ruth encounters Gideon at the cemetery, old feelings rush back. They have both found a way to work their grief and back to God. Ruth’s sister, Esther has a little girl named Becky who talks openly about Ruth’s daughter, Grace. It allows Gideon and Ruth to remember the good times. Ruth and Gideon are meant to be together, but will they realize this in time?
Kathleen Fuller gives us A Chance to Remember set in Birch Creek, Ohio. Cevilla Schlabach is surprised when Richard Johnson shows up at her house. Cevilla has not seen Richard since she was eighteen and left her English life behind to join the Amish. They spend time reminiscing about the past and catching up on their lost years. There friendship is renewed and there are flickers of something more. Cevilla has always said that God is enough for her, but has He led Richard to her to give her love in her golden years?
Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin transports readers to Jamesport, Missouri. Hannah Kauffman had her daughter, Evie out of wedlock twenty-one months ago. She has not seen Evie’s father, Thaddeus since he chose to leave town rather than repent. Now he reappears wanting to see their daughter and prove to Hannah that he has changed. Phillip Schwartz has been there for Hannah since the beginning. He has been a good friend, but he is in love with Hannah and wants to court her. Hannah is grateful to Phillip for standing by her, but her feeling for Thaddeus have not changed. She is afraid, though, of trusting any man again. Marriage would make her respectful in the eyes of the community. Hannah needs to pray for guidance and see what is the right path for her and Evie’s future.
An Amish Reunion contains four heartwarming and appealing stories. I found them to be well-written with steady pacing. All four stories contain relatable characters and situations. They deal with grief, heartbreak, self-doubt, loss of faith, and trust issues. Grief affects each one of us differently. As one of the characters said in Reunion of the Hearts “people say all kinds of things when they are grieving”. People say things they do not mean and later regret. We get to see how it affected our characters and changed their lives. I enjoyed getting the stories on characters I have come to know and love from these authors series. Cevilla is known for playing matchmaker and now the tables are turned. Hannah was shunned for her disobedience, but while she has been forgiven, no one has forgotten. I have wanted to know what happened to Hannah after her shunning (and now I do). One of the phrases I appreciated from this novella was “it is never too late to right a wrong”. The Christian elements are woven throughout each story. We see the importance of faith and prayer in one’s life. Amy Clipston’s Their True Home was an engaging story. I am drawn in immediately, read too quickly and am sorry when the story ends (best kind of books). My favorite story was A Chance to Remember featuring Cevilla. It was such a sweet story that reminds us it is never too late to reconnect with a friend or to find love. My favorite phrase from that story is from Cevilla “I always put my trust in God and always will”. One expression that is especially meaningful is “love is a home where your heart can live forever”. There are discussion questions after each novella. I delighted in reading these four heartfelt and impactful Amish novellas.
Merlene her dad and sister Anna are back in Bird-In-Hand, Pa. They recently moved back there from Indiana after being gone for 10 years. Merlene dad isn't happy being back there since his wife passed away. While being back Merlene is getting reacquainted with the people in the community. Merlene gets a job at the hardware store to help her father out. Rudy also works there as his father owns it.
As time goes on Merlene enjoys being back in Bird-In-Hand. She's made friends and her and Rudy seem to have gotten closer. Will Merlene convince her father to stay or go back to Indiana?
A Reunion of Hearts- Beth Wiseman
Ruth and Gideon Beiler are a happy married couple. All that changes one day when something very tragic happens. Things have changed now and they both end up leaving the Amish and going their separate ways. There family is having a family reunion. Both families are hoping they will show up. It's 5 years since they last lived together. Now they show up to sort through their belongings and to sell the house they once shared.
A Chance To Remember- Kathleen Fuller
Richard wants to go to visit a friend that lives in Amish country. Richard is an older gentleman, so his granddaughter tells him she will take him. Cevilla gets a knock at her door. When she opens it she finds Richard and his granddaughter on the other side.
As time goes on throughout the days they catch up on life and things that have happened. As time passes they get closer but not too close to tell each other . Will they be able to express their feelings to each other before Richard has to go back home?
Mended Hearts- Kelly Irvin
Hannah is eighteen and she has made a mistake. Since this has happened Hannah, has a problem believing everyone in the community including her parents have forgiven her.
Hannah has a friend Phillip and they hang out. They are showing interest in each other. All that changes one day when Thaddeus shows up. Thaddeus is the father of Hannah's baby Evie. What will happen now? Are things going to change?
I was given a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I liked seeing Rudy’s story. He and Marlene were cute together, and I liked the message of letting go of fear. This wasn’t my favorite Amy Clipston novella, but I still liked it.
A Reunion of Hearts (Beth Wiseman) - 3.5 stars
This one was close to home, as friends of mine recently lost their child. The story is about the grieving process of the parents as they struggle to cope with the massive loss. It was quite bittersweet, but had a hopeful message. Becky was just adorable. However, the fact that Gideon had a girlfriend while still legally married and a few suggestive comments kept this from being a full 4 star read.
A Chance to Remember (Kathleen Fuller) - 2 stars
The romance seemed out of the blue, and I didn’t like that it had an open ended ending. Meghan was a total snot, and despite the fact that Cevilla was Amish, the story had next to nothing to do with Amish life because Richard and Meghan were not. It didn’t seem authentically Amish either. There were a number of things that were said or done that didn’t seem like they would quite fit with the rules of the community.
Mended Hearts (Kelly Irvin) - 1 star
Ugh. I couldn’t stand Thaddeus and was mad that Hannah got back together with him. I liked Philip a lot more. I didn’t like the subject matter in general of this one, and I wasn’t happy with how it was resolved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loved reading these awesome stories… by some of my favorite Amish fiction authors.
THEIR TRUE HOME — Amy Clipston
I enjoyed the reunion of Marlene Bawell and Rudy Swarey… and sweated bullets worrying about if Marlene’s father would force her to move away from Bird-in-Hand again just as she’s finally beginning to hope for a future in her beloved town. I was a bit surprised at the ending but, as usual, Amy did a great job!
A REUNION OF HEARTS — Beth Wiseman
The story of Ruth and Gideon Beiler is very sad… with several twists and turns along the way. I was more than a little thrilled to discover how they worked to overcome the past… and find a way to put their sorrow behind them.
A CHANCE TO REMEMBER — Kathleen Fuller
Cevilla Schlabach is amazing! I just love her! When she meets someone from her past, is there any chance for love to finally bloom? Chances are slim, considering she’s Amish and he’s English. Kathy came up with the best ending for this story! It’s one that I’ll enjoy reading again and again.
MENDED HEARTS — Kelly Irvin
Hannah Kauffman has paid for her past sins… but those in her community, although they forgave her, refuse to forget it — and she feels as if she’ll never overcome the shame and humiliation of it. If only Thaddeus had stayed… and married her, everything would be different now.
Of course, he would return… just when Phillip, one of the few people who remained friends with her, is ready to make her his wife! Thaddeus is determined to convince Hannah that he wants her to marry him! Oh gee, what’s a woman to do! What will she do? Who can she trust?
I won’t say anything more about it, except that I was delighted with Kelly’s solution… and the rest of the story.
I enjoyed this collection of stories with a second chance at love theme. The circumstances that separated each couple were very different, but a range of emotions was present in each. Sadness, grief, and loneliness created a sharp contrast to the hopeful feelings that the reunions brought, with a blossoming of love not only for each other but for the Lord. The paths our lives take are not always clear, but trusting in God and His will is a strong tenant of the Amish faith. I was engaged as I read about the journeys of these characters and the heartbreak they endured and overcame with a renewed healing.
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.
An Amish Reunion is a wonderful book with four stories written by Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, and Kelly Irvin. These four authors write individual stories in their own unique writing styles about a family reunion. In each story the authors have created exceptional characters to relay their story to their readers. Throughout the entire book you will find love, family, heartache, and forgiveness. Each author has an inspiring storyline which keeps the readers interest.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful book that I can highly recommend to others.
Four superstar authors of Amish fiction come together with a collection of stories focusing on reunions. Each story is unique in the situations the characters find themselves in making this a charming set of stories that are sure to delight fans of the genre. My favorite part of this collection is that I got to visit characters from series these authors have written. It was nice to read more about these characters and get to see them have their own stories.
This book is a must-have. The stories are heartwarming and will touch readers hearts. It is a collection I could easily see myself reading again and again. This book would be a perfect addition to someone's Amish fiction collection or a great way to start one. Either way, it's a book not to be missed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
Another truly inspiring collection of Amish stories centering on reconciliation, which can be difficult even when you want it to happen so much. These stories and characters are really in emotional straits in their relationships, and at times it doesn't seem like there is a solution that will make both parties happy or even content. But as always, faith and prayer, along with the support of family and friends, gives them the strength they need to follow their hearts and take chances that turn into happy endings.
Their True Home (The Amish Homestead): 4 stars A Reunion of Hearts: 2 stars A Chance to Remember (The Amish Brides of Birch Creek): 4 stars Mended Hearts (Every Amish Season): 2 stars
Each story involves a reunion of two people that will fall in love for the first time or fall in love again. The stories that I liked had likeable characters and stories that were interesting. I enjoyed seeing them get to know each other again and fall in love. The other stories had things in them that I didn't like, especially the last one.
Four novellas filled with an abundance of faith, forgiveness, trust, love and family dedication. Each story shows lessons learned from life experiences. While reading each one, I felt as if I was right there with the characters and experiencing their emotions. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
Each time I read novellas by these four authors I’m amazed how they can tell such a complete, compelling story in such a short time frame. And they’ve done it once again.
Instead of leaving a review for each story, let me say that they are all incredible. I love the characters, I love the settings. I love everything about these stories. You’ll see old friends again and meet new friends. Riveting story lines will keep you turning the pages to see what’s next.
As always, it’s refreshing to read about people who take life slower than we do, who understand the importance of God and family, and who are not perfect. The romances are clean and suitable for even the teenage reader. I highly recommend An Amish Reunion!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Their True Home by Amy Clipston Finding love and a friend is what Marlene finds with Rudy. Both must overcome past hurts and learn to trust God's will.
A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman Sometimes loss is more than we can understand and we must lean on each other and family to get through the pain. This is what the characters learn in this story.
A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller Cevilla has a second chance with an old friend who shows up out of the blue.
Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin Hannah has lived with the mess she has made of her life for 2 years but she must learn to forgive when Thaddeus comes home.
An Amish Reunion encompasses four amazing amish authors with the main story focused on reunions. All four of these stories have amazing character development from previous storylines. It's neat to read more about these characters on a deeper level.
Each novella is heartwarming and will touch the readers emotions and heart. It is a beautiful collection and was a enjoyable read. My favorite novella was Their True Home by Amy Clipston. It as a fantastic book. This book is a fantastic book for your novella amish collection. I really enjoyed each one of these stories.
I love books like this because readers get to read stories from four amazing authors. They each have a gift for writing and giving us characters we can relate to. Sit back and enjoy these stories about reunions, family, love and hope.
THEIR TRUE HOME by AMY CLIPSTON
It is not always easy to come home especially for Marlene and her family. Her father is very concerned about providing for his family since he lost his job. His decision to return to their home they had ten years ago is very hard on the family. I loved how the family pitched in to help with chores and expenses. Her dad is still grieving the loss of his wife and I think his pride is a little hurt having to return to the town he left long ago. When Marlene finds a job to help out, I wondered if her father would be pleased with her. Rudy and Marlene hit if off pretty well and working together helps build a good friendship. I liked the story and how welcoming the community was to Marlene and her family. What will happen when Marlene’s dad gets news of a job from the town they just left? Can Marlene convince her dad that they are already home? Lovely story of finding your way home and falling in love.
A REUNION OF HEARTS by BETH WISEMAN
My heart ached as I read that Ruth was coming home for a reunion that would bring back painful memories. I could feel her grieve as she relived the day she received news that her precious daughter and mother-in-law had died in an accident. The pain was too much for Ruth and her husband Gideon. They both left their faith and went their separate ways. Will the reunion heal their wounds? Can it bring them back together? Ruth’s fear is great and she will have to let God help her through her grief and take away any fear she has. I felt sorry for Gideon who was hurting but didn’t really know what to say to Ruth. The story is about healing not just from losing someone but losing faith in God. It is emotional at times and I could feel Ruth and Gideon pain as they shared how hard it was for them to lose their child. Can God restore their marriage? Will forgiveness bring them closer to each other ? This reunion is full of tears, dealing with the past and allowing God to heal your broken heart.
A CHANCE TO REMEMBER by KATHLEEN FULLER
There is no way not to fall in love with Cevilla. She is a wonderful character who welcomes Richard and his granddaughter to stay with her while they are in town. I love Cevilla's take charge attitude and sincere love of life. It had been awhile since Cevilla and Richard have seen each other. The author gives us a lovely story of two mature adults who reminiscence about their past together and along the way find happiness again with each other. Meghan is out of sorts in her live and maybe this visit will be just what she needs. Her love for her grandfather is obvious and together they will come to terms with the past and find new memories to cherish. We are all worthy of love and these characters will find out how much they are loved in this heart warming story.
MENDED HEARTS by KELLY IRVIN
Hannah is a sweet young lady who made a mistake according to the community and had been banned for a period of time. For her it seems like people are still treating her like she has not been forgiven. I liked how Hannah took responsibility and does her best to support herself and her little girl Evie. It angered me to read that the father skipped out and left Hannah all alone with a baby. The story is a wonderful example of forgiveness. I don't know how I would respond if the father of my child deserted us and then shows up two years later. We all want to be forgiven but for Hannah it is much more than forgiveness. For Hannah it is about trusting someone who broke your heart and left you to face the community on your own. The story is an emotional journey as two people try to repair the hurt from their past. I thought it was a great example of how easy it is to hold on to something you thought you had forgiven.
I received a copy of this book from the authors and Fiction Guild. The review is my own opinion.
First story: Their True Home, by Amy Clipston. Let me say, if this had been the first book I’d ever read by Mrs. Clipston, I wouldn’t have read any more. Now, with that being out in the open, this short story was barely Christian, in my opinion. Sexually suggestive phrases were constantly being used. This story just doesn’t help anyone draw closer to Jesus. I don’t recommend it. What I don’t understand is why did Amy Clipston go so far away from decent Christian writing in this story? It’s about 2 young adults, Marlene and Rudy, who develop a friendship that becomes more. You can tell they are “falling in love” by the increased sexual innuendos. The characters had no depth. Not much of a plot, either.
Second story: A Reunion of Hearts, by Beth Wiseman.
Gideon and Ruth, formerly Amish, have returned to their Amish hometown for a family reunion. Beth Wiseman did a good job of exploring SOME the depths of depression, sadness, anger, and denial, that must go along with the loss of a child. Yes, it was a serious book, to a point, but then it rather unraveled when the author decided to talk about the sexual attraction the husband and wife still had for each other. Kind of a bizarre turn to take from the path I thought she was on in this story. It could have accomplished so much more if she had stayed true to the original storyline. Most of her story is decent, but I don’t recommend it for anyone but MARRIED adult women, because of the focus on the sexuality between husband and wife, who had been separated but not divorced, for about 5 years. Mrs. Wiseman could have taken a cleaner path, but kept focusing on the fleshly nature, instead of the spiritual nature. So far, this book has left me feeling cheated out of a good read. Let’s see if A Chance to Remember, by Kathleen Fuller, is better than these two.
Third story: A Chance to Remember, by Kathleen Fuller
Such a good story, I didn’t want it to end so soon! Clean Christian fiction about the Amish and an Englishcher. This is about an 80 year old Amish woman living in Birch Creek, and a man from her past, who comes by for a visit, after not having seen each other for decades. Cevilla and Richard enjoy old memories, and find they have an attraction for each other, after many visits. Meghan, Richard’s granddaughter, watches over him and drives him to see Cevilla. They are on a little vacation away from California, and Meghan has some issues of her own she needs to settle. All in all, this novella was highly enjoyable, and the characters had depth, and real personality. I hope to be able to read more books by Kathleen Fuller.
Fourth Story in “An Amish Reunion”
Mended Hearts, by Kelly Irvin
I was very happy to see this story is a continuation of some of the character’s stories I read in “With Winter’s First Frost”.
So nicely written, and clean! Kelly Irvin really does a good job of writing Amish fiction. She did a great job of writing about the struggles of a young unwed mother, who, after going through a bann, repented and was forgiven by most of her community, although as we know, there will always be those who like to keep gossiping about someone, and tearing them up. Such was the case in this story too, but it wasn’t the main focus. The main story is about Hannah, the unwed mother, her friend Philip, and her ex-boyfriend, Thaddeus, the father of her child. Thaddeus refused to marry Hannah, and he skipped town, which embittered Hannah towards him. The story is truly about forgiveness, remembering how Christ forgave us, and about recognizing that we sin, when we refuse to forgive others. It’s a great story.
When Marlene Bawell moved from Bird-in-Hand ten years ago she was in the deepest of mourning for her mother. Now he family has moved back so her father can seek employment after being laid off. To help save money, Marlene works at the hardware store owned by Rudy Swarey's father. She knew Rudy growing up and had a secret crush on him, though he never seemed to notice her. But just as a friendship between them begins to blossom, her life is once again turned upside down. Will Marlene ever have a chance to find her own true home?
A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman
Ruth and Gideon Beiler experienced one of life's most tragic events. Unable to get past their grief, the couple abandoned their Amish faith and went in different directions, though neither could bear to formally dissolve the marriage. When their loved ones reach out to them to come home for a family reunion, Ruth has reason to believe that Gideon won't be there. Gideon also thinks that Ruth has declined the invitation. Family and friends are rooting for them to reunite, but will it all be enough for Ruth and Gideon to get past their grief and recapture a time when they were in love and had a bright future ahead of them?
A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller
Cevilla Schlabach, Birch Creek's resident octogenarian matchmaker, is surprised when Richard, a man from her Englisch past, arrives in Birch Creek for a visit. While he and Cevilla take several walks down memory lane, they wonder what the future holds for them at this stage of life--friendship, or the possibility of something else?
Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin
At eighteen Hanna Kauffman made a terrible mistake. Her parents and members of her Jamesport Amish community say they've forgiven her. But she feels their eyes following her everywhere she goes with eighteen-month-old Evie. Thaddeus, Evie's father, escaped this fate by running away from Jamesport. Now that Thaddeus is gone, Hannah's old friend Philip is stepping up to be by her side. He has waited patiently for Hannah to realize just how much he cares for her. But when Thaddeus returns after two years, Hannah can't deny the love she feels for him. Does the fact that Phillip has waited patiently for her all this time mean that she owes him something? Can she trust either one of them? Can she trust herself? She has repented and been forgiven by the One who is most important--her heavenly Father. But is she willing to risk making more mistakes by opening herself up to love?
MY REVIEW
I am so glad I got this book. It was wonderful being able to read a continuation to a couple of series I have read, one by Amy Clipston's Amish Homestead series and Kelly Irvin's Every Amish Season series. I had most recently read the latest book in Kelly's series and really enjoyed finding out what happened to Hannah.
Beth Wiseman's story tore my heart apart, what a hard thing for Ruth and Gideon to endure. And Kathleens story was quite different and touching.
This whole book was amazing, the authors did a wonderful job of filling you with emotional feelings, you can't put the book down. A definite five star book!!!
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.
Fear blocks the voice of God Listen to Him and everything will be ok.
I loved each of these four short Amish reunion stories that grabbed your heart in a special way. With different circumstances, reunions can be difficult but as you overcome the fear, something beautiful emerges as told in these four stories of hope and redemption.
Their True Home-Marlene and her family have come back to their home. A home where she grew up and had fond memories of their mother. Since her mother's death, her father can't face the memories of home. Marlene hoping to change her father's heart from grieving to joy, she starts a new job where she becomes reacquainted with Rudy. Rudy whom she had a school yard crush on. Both have been hurt before and being in their late 20's, they were unsure of any type of relationship. Everything begins to change has their friendship grows deeper and her father plans to move the family once again.
Reunion of Hearts - Ruth is coming back home from a terrible loss. No longer living in the Amish community as her heart was terribly broken by the death of her 5 year old daughter. Ruth and her husband Gideon not able to share in their loss and grieve, separated from the Amish community and each other. Ten years later, a marriage of a mutual friend brings them both together again. Not knowing how the other feels, their re-connection brings back the past. Desiring to heal, Ruth seeks to share her daughter Grace legacy with her family. Gideon and Ruth must learn to share the grief that they ran away from. This was my favorite as it brought many emotions of parenthood, marriage and faith.
A Chance to Remember- A reunion that brings the English to the Amish. Cevilla has never been married and living the simple Amish life was all she wanted. She did find love once but it never came to pass until Richard Johnson and his granddaughter Megan came to visit from Los Angeles. Richard has had a successful life but as he aged, his thoughts came to Cevilla and wanting to see her again. To see if she was the same person as she was so many years ago. Megan has a special place for her grandfather and his desire to see Cevilla made her cautious for her grandfather's heart. Megan in her own pain has been dealing with pride. Pride comes in many forms has this sweet reunion will share.
Mended Hearts- Hannah having found redemption in the birth of her child out wedlock, has worked hard for it. When her finance Thaddeus skipped town before the wedding, she thought their indiscretion would not be known until she found herself pregnant and a the father of her baby girl Evie long gone. Hannah lived with the stares, the judgement and ultimately the forgiveness of her community and was ready to start fresh until Thaddeus came to the restaurant where she worked. Thaddeus is the prodigal son that has come back. Hannah's life has changed. With a friendship of another man Leo, Hannah must decide if Thaddeus deserves a second change. Can she forget what Thaddeus has done? Can she love another as she did Thaddeus? Can she protect her heart?
Each story is unique has it deals with pride, 2nd chances and love that is met unconditionally.
A Special Thank you to Zondervan and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.