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North Country Amish #1
An Amish Wife for Christmas
Will marriage save her family?Christmas with the North Country AmishBethany Martin has until Christmas to prove to the Amish community that she can raise her siblings—including her mischievous brother—without a husband. Then handsome newcomer Michael Shetler arrives, winning over Bethany’s siblings. He might be the answer to their prayers, but Michael has a troubled past. Can Bethany love a man with secrets…even if it’s the only thing keeping her family together?
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2018
114 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Davids
142 books404 followersI was born and raised in Northcentral Kansas. I'm a farmer's daughter, but I now make my home in the city of Wichita. I'm an RN. Neonatal nursing has been the main focus of my career. What can I say? I love babies. I was invited to the highschool graduation of a baby I took care of. Talk about making me feel old!
In June of 2011 I became a widow after my husband of 36 years and 11 months died from multiple brain tumors. It was a very sad time, but thanks to the three f's, my faith, my family and my friends, life is moving forward. I have four brothers, one daughter and two grandchildren who all work at making me feel loved.
I'm the author of more than 30 books and I'm currently writing a series called The Brides of Amish Country for Love Inspired.
In June of 2011 I became a widow after my husband of 36 years and 11 months died from multiple brain tumors. It was a very sad time, but thanks to the three f's, my faith, my family and my friends, life is moving forward. I have four brothers, one daughter and two grandchildren who all work at making me feel loved.
I'm the author of more than 30 books and I'm currently writing a series called The Brides of Amish Country for Love Inspired.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 15, 2022
An encouraging story of two people helping each other in small but meaningful ways and building a new family along the way. There's a nice balance between some heavy topics of grief and PTSD and lighter themes of family, love, and healthy self-respect. I enjoyed the side story involving Ivan as it was another way of showing faith in the people we know and love and not judging before we know all the facts.
I really enjoy reading Love Inspired novels as there's always a line or two that reach me at just the right moment. Sometimes they bring new meaning, a new perspective, or a clearer understanding. This time it's "Our faith requires a strength of character..." Our character is what sustains our faith when it wavers, we find the strength to believe and trust in a God that oversees all. Faith is a choice to believe in something we can't see or know yet we trust that all things work together for good.
I really enjoy reading Love Inspired novels as there's always a line or two that reach me at just the right moment. Sometimes they bring new meaning, a new perspective, or a clearer understanding. This time it's "Our faith requires a strength of character..." Our character is what sustains our faith when it wavers, we find the strength to believe and trust in a God that oversees all. Faith is a choice to believe in something we can't see or know yet we trust that all things work together for good.
December 22, 2018
I enjoyed reading An Amish Bride for Christmas . The story centered on a young Amish single lady who was left in the position of raising her 14 year old brother and young sister . Trying to keep the family together Bethany Martin had a lot on her plate. Her brother Ivan was constantly in trouble to the point where the bishop made arrangements for him to go live with his Uncle Harvey. Even though he caused a lot of trouble in the community he was a big help for
his sister, by doing the chores . With out him Bethany might well lose the farm and her late grandfather's business.
The author introduces readers to a young Amish man who suddenly appears asking directions to her grandfather's house. Unbeknownst to Bethany the man had excepted a job working with her late grandfather and he didn't realize her grandfather had passed. Michael Shetler had made the trip from Holmes County Ohio in good faith that he would have a job and lodging when he arrived. He wasn't with out his own challenges and one was that he suffered from PTSD and the other being that he had spent all his money just to get to New Covenant in Maine. What would he do now that his job was no longer available?
I liked that the author centered the story around PTSD and how it effects it's victims with sudden flash backs of a traumatic experience in their lives. What can be done to help the victims with this disorder. Also I loved the importance placed on family and friends. Bethany worked hard to keep the family together because she loved her brother and sister. She kept a cool head even through Ivan seemed to try her at every turn. She had plenty of friends that stood behind her with more love and support.
I would highly recommend this book to all readers of Amish Fiction. All readers of Love Inspired books would also enjoy this story . If you are a fan of Patricia David's you won't want to miss out on this festive Christmas story. Very well written.
his sister, by doing the chores . With out him Bethany might well lose the farm and her late grandfather's business.
The author introduces readers to a young Amish man who suddenly appears asking directions to her grandfather's house. Unbeknownst to Bethany the man had excepted a job working with her late grandfather and he didn't realize her grandfather had passed. Michael Shetler had made the trip from Holmes County Ohio in good faith that he would have a job and lodging when he arrived. He wasn't with out his own challenges and one was that he suffered from PTSD and the other being that he had spent all his money just to get to New Covenant in Maine. What would he do now that his job was no longer available?
I liked that the author centered the story around PTSD and how it effects it's victims with sudden flash backs of a traumatic experience in their lives. What can be done to help the victims with this disorder. Also I loved the importance placed on family and friends. Bethany worked hard to keep the family together because she loved her brother and sister. She kept a cool head even through Ivan seemed to try her at every turn. She had plenty of friends that stood behind her with more love and support.
I would highly recommend this book to all readers of Amish Fiction. All readers of Love Inspired books would also enjoy this story . If you are a fan of Patricia David's you won't want to miss out on this festive Christmas story. Very well written.
March 1, 2020
Bethany Martin is raising her teenage brother and younger sister. Bethany is also struggling to hang on to her grandfather's farm. She has additional worries, however, and one major difficulty is that her brother has been getting into trouble and their Bishop has decided to send the teen out of state to their uncle. Bethany wants to do whatever she can to help her brother and to keep her small family together. The bishop informs Bethany that if she doesn't find a husband before Christmas - a mere five weeks away - he will have no choice but to act on his decision. If things don't change quickly, Bethany stands to lose a lot, the farm, her grandfather's business and her brother.
Michael Shetler has traveled quite a ways to join a clock repair business owned by Bethany's grandfather. However, when Michael arrived, he had no idea that Bethany's grandfather has passed away. Nonetheless, the business is helping Bethany in her efforts to keep the farm going, so she allows Michael to take over the business. It turns out that he is exceptionally skilled in clock and watch repair. However, what Bethany doesn't know is that Michael is hiding a secret from his past - the fact that he is suffering from PTSD - an issue I've not seen in Amish romance.
I so loved this story by Patricia Davids. I loved the responsibility Bethany showed to her siblings - the love was so strong, so wonderful. More impressive, however, was the sensitive and delicate way the issue of PTSD was handled. One remarkable factor that played into this situation with Michael was the fact that he found a canine friend that proved invaluable to him during his darker moments.Faith, family and love all played together nicely in this wonderful family.
I adore Amish romance novels, and this book by Davids is right up there as one of my favorite in this genre, as did the following two books in this series.
Michael Shetler has traveled quite a ways to join a clock repair business owned by Bethany's grandfather. However, when Michael arrived, he had no idea that Bethany's grandfather has passed away. Nonetheless, the business is helping Bethany in her efforts to keep the farm going, so she allows Michael to take over the business. It turns out that he is exceptionally skilled in clock and watch repair. However, what Bethany doesn't know is that Michael is hiding a secret from his past - the fact that he is suffering from PTSD - an issue I've not seen in Amish romance.
I so loved this story by Patricia Davids. I loved the responsibility Bethany showed to her siblings - the love was so strong, so wonderful. More impressive, however, was the sensitive and delicate way the issue of PTSD was handled. One remarkable factor that played into this situation with Michael was the fact that he found a canine friend that proved invaluable to him during his darker moments.Faith, family and love all played together nicely in this wonderful family.
I adore Amish romance novels, and this book by Davids is right up there as one of my favorite in this genre, as did the following two books in this series.
September 16, 2021
This is such an enjoyable book. It grabbed my attention from the beginning and held it to the end. I can read Christmas books anytime and I’m so glad I discovered this one. I recommend reading this one to get an early start on the holiday season.
November 1, 2018
Sqqquuueeeepppp! I'm letting out all my squeals and eeps in an ear-splitting crescendo of avid-Patrica-Davids-fan excitement! I love this author sooooo much and this book is the first of a new series -- North Country Amish! And if that isn't intoxicating enough -- this series is set in Maine and I do love going on location with the Amish.
New Covenant is a fledgling community experiencing some growing pains as the Amish settle in the predominately Englisch locale. Lots going on both within the community and without. And Bethany and her little family are smack in the middle of it all.
She's an older sister struggling to keep her family together but the Bishop has other ideas. When a newcomer shows up with connections to her deceased grandfather, things really get interesting. Though she can't help liking Michael, he's shrouded in mystery and Bethany has major trust issues. Love the way their friendship grows -- and the first time they meet is hilarious! Sweet romance at it's finest!
There's even a canine heroine -- Sadie Sue -- wonder dog extraordinaire inspired by the author's own furry rapscallion. An Amish Wife for Christmas is a treasure of a holiday read and I'm over-the-moon excited to be at the start of an exciting new series by Patrica Davids.
New Covenant is a fledgling community experiencing some growing pains as the Amish settle in the predominately Englisch locale. Lots going on both within the community and without. And Bethany and her little family are smack in the middle of it all.
She's an older sister struggling to keep her family together but the Bishop has other ideas. When a newcomer shows up with connections to her deceased grandfather, things really get interesting. Though she can't help liking Michael, he's shrouded in mystery and Bethany has major trust issues. Love the way their friendship grows -- and the first time they meet is hilarious! Sweet romance at it's finest!
There's even a canine heroine -- Sadie Sue -- wonder dog extraordinaire inspired by the author's own furry rapscallion. An Amish Wife for Christmas is a treasure of a holiday read and I'm over-the-moon excited to be at the start of an exciting new series by Patrica Davids.
August 15, 2018
This story takes place in a very small Amish community tucked way up at the top of Maine, and consists of just a few families. Bethany Martin’s Grandfather was the one responsible for making the move to this remote area, and now he has passed. This girl has a lot of responsibilities for a young woman, she is the sole caregiver for her teenage brother and six-year-old sister.
Enter a new comer who it seems has an arrangement with Bethany’s grandfather to work and live on the property. An answer to a prayer, well, she has a real challenge in her life, her young brother.
Will this new comer be able to help her and be the answer to her prayers, or will his demons keep him prisoner?
We find some really sweet moments, and see some very sad problems, but are there answers here, and in time for Christmas?
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.
Enter a new comer who it seems has an arrangement with Bethany’s grandfather to work and live on the property. An answer to a prayer, well, she has a real challenge in her life, her young brother.
Will this new comer be able to help her and be the answer to her prayers, or will his demons keep him prisoner?
We find some really sweet moments, and see some very sad problems, but are there answers here, and in time for Christmas?
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 22, 2018
I enjoyed this book. The struggles, oh so many struggles. How do you keep your faith when everything seems to be against you? Bethany's strength shines through. I loved that PTSD was a major factor. It is a hard subject that more people should know about. Very well done!
December 14, 2018
An unexpected Christmas romance
This is a new series in Maine for Patricia David’s.
Bethany Martin’s grandfather passed away. She has been helping to raise her siblings for a long time. Her brother Ivan keeps getting into trouble and the Bishop has decided Ivan Needs to be sent to an uncle to give a firm hand to the boy by Christmas. Bethany promised her mom she would keep the family together. The Bishop says if she can get married so her husband can give the boy a firm hand , then Ivan does not have to go to their uncle. Bethany is talking to Clarabell, the cow, about the situation when a stranger walks into the barn looking for a job her late grandfather had written to him about.
Michael is an Amishman who left the Amish for awhile. He suffered PTSD in New York City when the jewelry store he worked in was robbed and two people were murdered and he was hurt. His employer in New York had written Bethany’s grandfather about a job in watch making for Michael to give him a new start. He is dealing with PTSD and is just searching for some peace to heal. Bethany didn’t know anything about Michael.
Michael has no idea how his life will alter with two children, Bethany and a mangy mutt that is looking for a home too.
Heartwarming story, great characters, filled with wisdom and a nice read.
Patricia David’s this looks like a great new series!
This is a new series in Maine for Patricia David’s.
Bethany Martin’s grandfather passed away. She has been helping to raise her siblings for a long time. Her brother Ivan keeps getting into trouble and the Bishop has decided Ivan Needs to be sent to an uncle to give a firm hand to the boy by Christmas. Bethany promised her mom she would keep the family together. The Bishop says if she can get married so her husband can give the boy a firm hand , then Ivan does not have to go to their uncle. Bethany is talking to Clarabell, the cow, about the situation when a stranger walks into the barn looking for a job her late grandfather had written to him about.
Michael is an Amishman who left the Amish for awhile. He suffered PTSD in New York City when the jewelry store he worked in was robbed and two people were murdered and he was hurt. His employer in New York had written Bethany’s grandfather about a job in watch making for Michael to give him a new start. He is dealing with PTSD and is just searching for some peace to heal. Bethany didn’t know anything about Michael.
Michael has no idea how his life will alter with two children, Bethany and a mangy mutt that is looking for a home too.
Heartwarming story, great characters, filled with wisdom and a nice read.
Patricia David’s this looks like a great new series!
December 6, 2019
3.5*
A sweet Amish romance that delightfully revels in the Christmas spirit. Concerned for the fate of her younger brother, Bethany reluctantly agrees to allow the mysterious Michael to help her with her grandfather's shop - and her siblings. As Christmas nears, Michael must face his own demons to help Bethany keep her family together. Bound by faith and hope, Bethany and Michael find themselves growing closer together, despite the challenges surrounding them. Although a little slow, this novel weaves together a charming story of two people brought together by loss. I eagerly await reading the next entry in the "North Country Amish" series (the background of which is, by the way, quite creative and innovative in the sometimes repetitive Amish genre).
A sweet Amish romance that delightfully revels in the Christmas spirit. Concerned for the fate of her younger brother, Bethany reluctantly agrees to allow the mysterious Michael to help her with her grandfather's shop - and her siblings. As Christmas nears, Michael must face his own demons to help Bethany keep her family together. Bound by faith and hope, Bethany and Michael find themselves growing closer together, despite the challenges surrounding them. Although a little slow, this novel weaves together a charming story of two people brought together by loss. I eagerly await reading the next entry in the "North Country Amish" series (the background of which is, by the way, quite creative and innovative in the sometimes repetitive Amish genre).
January 5, 2026
An interesting start to the 'North Country' series. The community is relatively small, so I'm intrigued to see it grow over the next several books of the series.
I really liked Bethany and Michael, and how they interacted with each other and with Bethany's younger siblings. I appreciated that things with Ivan weren't as cut-and-dried as they seemed at first, and how Michael chose to be a blessing to him, even when his own circumstances were far from ideal.
Though some of the aspects of the book were serious and weighty, there were moments of joy as well. Jenny and Sadie especially made me giggle at times.
3.5 stars
I really liked Bethany and Michael, and how they interacted with each other and with Bethany's younger siblings. I appreciated that things with Ivan weren't as cut-and-dried as they seemed at first, and how Michael chose to be a blessing to him, even when his own circumstances were far from ideal.
Though some of the aspects of the book were serious and weighty, there were moments of joy as well. Jenny and Sadie especially made me giggle at times.
3.5 stars
January 1, 2022
I loved this story about Bethany who cares for her two younger siblings since her parents died. Her brother has gotten into trouble several times lately and the Bishop has said after Christmas he is sending Ivan to life with a male relative. Bethany needs to get married before Christmas so the Bishop will leave Ivan in her care. Jesse appears at Bethany’s door and the romance begins. Jesse does have some problems with PTSD.
January 6, 2022
I enjoyed this book very much. It is a very good story that features the challenges of PTSD. It also covers the trials of a broken family that is trying to survive. There are touches of humor and the heartbreak of grief. Several things are going on but it all flows smoothly for a hard to put down read.
October 5, 2021
Delightful! A "Twofer": A Christmas story AND An Amish Love Story
I like the way Patricia Davids writes. I was immediately pulled into the story by Clarabelle and no, I will *not* tell who she is. And Sadie Sue...how can you not fall in love with her?
This story deals with PTSD and how it affects not only the person but the people around him. It also includes something close to my heart, an ESA (Emotional Support Animal). I have an ESA and he has brought me through some very tough times. It's something that I hope you don't truly understand which probably means you've never needed one. The descriptions of what sweet Sadie Sue does to help her 'human' is exactly what mine does when needed.
I enjoyed this Christmas book and just might make it a yearly Christmas read. Yep! I definitely recommend.
I like the way Patricia Davids writes. I was immediately pulled into the story by Clarabelle and no, I will *not* tell who she is. And Sadie Sue...how can you not fall in love with her?
This story deals with PTSD and how it affects not only the person but the people around him. It also includes something close to my heart, an ESA (Emotional Support Animal). I have an ESA and he has brought me through some very tough times. It's something that I hope you don't truly understand which probably means you've never needed one. The descriptions of what sweet Sadie Sue does to help her 'human' is exactly what mine does when needed.
I enjoyed this Christmas book and just might make it a yearly Christmas read. Yep! I definitely recommend.
May 1, 2025
Don't judge. A romance is a romance. Surprisingly, it was pretty good.
January 7, 2026
I enjoyed this book. The characters are great, and Davids does a good job with the children, the PTSD sufferer, the older sister, and all their inter-relationships. I look forward to more in this series.
October 20, 2018
An Amish Wife for Christmas by Patricia Davids
(North Country Amish)
Will marriage save her family?
Christmas with the North Country Amish
Bethany Martin has until Christmas to prove to the Amish community that she can raise her siblings—including her mischievous brother—without a husband. Then handsome newcomer Michael Shetler arrives, winning over Bethany’s siblings. He might be the answer to their prayers, but Michael has a troubled past. Can Bethany love a man with secrets…even if it’s the only thing keeping her family together?
This is Bethany Martin and Michael Shetler's story.
teenage brother Ivan and sister Jenny.
It was the dream of Bethany Martin’s grandfather to start an Amish settlement far from the tourist centers and the influences of the outside world. He believed he had found the perfect place in New Covenant, Maine. After he passed away, Bethany is determined to continue his dream. The call has gone out to Amish settlements across the country recruiting Amish people who want to live closer to God and nature. The series will feature stories about the people who answer the call to a new plain life in Maine.
Bethany Martin’s grandfather Elijah had offer a job to Michael and a place to stay.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Patricia Davids.
Will marriage save Bethany family? read this book to find out.
I highly recommend reading.
An Amish Wife for Christmas by Patricia Davids is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
more books by Patricia Davids
His New Amish Family
An Unexpected Amish Romance (The Amish Bachelors)
Amish Christmas Twins
An Amish Harvest (The Amish Bachelors)
An Amish Noel (The Amish Bachelors)
His Amish Teacher: An Amish Romance (The Amish Bachelors)
Their Pretend Amish Courtship (The Amish Bachelors)
The Amish Christmas Letters
by Patricia Davids,Sarah Price and Jennifer Beckstrand
The Amish Widow's Wish
Brides of Amish County
1. Katie's Redemption
2. The Doctor's Blessing
3. An Amish Christmas
4. The Farmer Next Door
5. The Christmas Quilt
6. A Home for Hannah
7. A Hope Springs Christmas
8. Plain Admirer
9. Amish Christmas Joy
10. The Shepherd's Bride
11. The Amish Nanny
12. An Amish Christmas Journey
13. Amish Redemption
(North Country Amish)
Will marriage save her family?
Christmas with the North Country Amish
Bethany Martin has until Christmas to prove to the Amish community that she can raise her siblings—including her mischievous brother—without a husband. Then handsome newcomer Michael Shetler arrives, winning over Bethany’s siblings. He might be the answer to their prayers, but Michael has a troubled past. Can Bethany love a man with secrets…even if it’s the only thing keeping her family together?
This is Bethany Martin and Michael Shetler's story.
teenage brother Ivan and sister Jenny.
It was the dream of Bethany Martin’s grandfather to start an Amish settlement far from the tourist centers and the influences of the outside world. He believed he had found the perfect place in New Covenant, Maine. After he passed away, Bethany is determined to continue his dream. The call has gone out to Amish settlements across the country recruiting Amish people who want to live closer to God and nature. The series will feature stories about the people who answer the call to a new plain life in Maine.
Bethany Martin’s grandfather Elijah had offer a job to Michael and a place to stay.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Patricia Davids.
Will marriage save Bethany family? read this book to find out.
I highly recommend reading.
An Amish Wife for Christmas by Patricia Davids is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
more books by Patricia Davids
His New Amish Family
An Unexpected Amish Romance (The Amish Bachelors)
Amish Christmas Twins
An Amish Harvest (The Amish Bachelors)
An Amish Noel (The Amish Bachelors)
His Amish Teacher: An Amish Romance (The Amish Bachelors)
Their Pretend Amish Courtship (The Amish Bachelors)
The Amish Christmas Letters
by Patricia Davids,Sarah Price and Jennifer Beckstrand
The Amish Widow's Wish
Brides of Amish County
1. Katie's Redemption
2. The Doctor's Blessing
3. An Amish Christmas
4. The Farmer Next Door
5. The Christmas Quilt
6. A Home for Hannah
7. A Hope Springs Christmas
8. Plain Admirer
9. Amish Christmas Joy
10. The Shepherd's Bride
11. The Amish Nanny
12. An Amish Christmas Journey
13. Amish Redemption
November 16, 2018
An Amish Wife for Christmas is such a heartwarming story written by Patricia Davids in her new series North Country Amish. This story is one that takes on many topics but the big one is PTSD. The author has done her do diligence in her research of this topic and delivered a sensitive story on this subject. The storyline has many smaller storylines with in it and added altogether has made a wondetful story come to life.
The characters the author has developed to tell her story are very likeable and realistic. I enjoyed the characters of Bethany and Michael because of their abilities to compliment each other. Another amazing character was Sadie Sue and I enjoyed watching her antics play out during this story. She does what most dogs do and that is to bring peace, love, and joy to those around her. She was a wonderful addition to this story. The characters were able to reach off the pages and bring this reader right into the story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. I have read many stories by this author and have not been disappointed in any of them.
Congratulations to Patricia Davids on writing another fantastic story for her readers to enjoy and I will be watching for more releases by this author in the future.
The characters the author has developed to tell her story are very likeable and realistic. I enjoyed the characters of Bethany and Michael because of their abilities to compliment each other. Another amazing character was Sadie Sue and I enjoyed watching her antics play out during this story. She does what most dogs do and that is to bring peace, love, and joy to those around her. She was a wonderful addition to this story. The characters were able to reach off the pages and bring this reader right into the story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. I have read many stories by this author and have not been disappointed in any of them.
Congratulations to Patricia Davids on writing another fantastic story for her readers to enjoy and I will be watching for more releases by this author in the future.
March 3, 2019
This is a nice, gentle story about a young woman who is left in charge of the kid siblings when her clock-mending relative dies. The bishop is worried that she'll act as mother without getting the chance to be a wife (not mentioned, men of all religions seem to fear single women in the community and do all they can to marry them off) while some of the kids are getting out of hand.
Enter a young man recovering from PTSD due to a store robbery. He's able to help with the farm work and can try his hand at the clock store. Given it's winter, maybe it's a good time to have company. The days are short and crammed with activity, and the nights are long and dark.
My only complaint is that the title does rather give away the ending, but don't tell me you didn't see it coming. The romance is family friendly.
I downloaded a book from Net Galley and Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
Enter a young man recovering from PTSD due to a store robbery. He's able to help with the farm work and can try his hand at the clock store. Given it's winter, maybe it's a good time to have company. The days are short and crammed with activity, and the nights are long and dark.
My only complaint is that the title does rather give away the ending, but don't tell me you didn't see it coming. The romance is family friendly.
I downloaded a book from Net Galley and Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
June 5, 2019
Prolific author Davids starts a new series, set in Maine, with a fledgling Amish community and plenty of layers (and not just the outerwear needed for the stark cold and snow). The author’s trademark wit and charm are fully in place, and readers will fall in love with the endearing characters - particularly a dog named Sadie Sue who steals hearts just as much as she steals the show. Her relationship with Michael (who is recovering from PTSD) and with Jenny (the heroine’s little sister) are both so well-written that readers may find themselves wishing a dog like Sadie Sue would find them too. At the core of the story is Bethany Martin’s struggle to raise her siblings alone (particularly her troubled brother Ivan), her blossoming friendship with Michael, and Michael’s battle to overcome his PTSD. Well-written with a sweet romance and lovable characters, this is the perfect choice to get in the mood for Christmas and winter weather!
July 7, 2022
Bethany is trying to raise her younger siblings, but her younger brother Ivan is a handful and then some. Bethany’s father has deserted the family, her mother died years ago, and her beloved grandfather recently passed away, leaving Bethany on her own with her siblings. The Bishop has decided that Ivan is getting into too much trouble without a man in the family to rein in his wild ways, and is going to sent him to their uncle’s home in another community. Entering into this mix is a newcomer, an Amish man with baggage of his own that he deals with on a daily basis. The story continues as these characters find a way to cope, first by themselves and then by helping each other. It’s a nice story, a quick read, and a lovely romance.
August 12, 2018
I've read a number of Davids' books, and they're always enjoyable and well written. Her latest upcoming release is no exception. Bethany is a character that is easy to connect with and root for. It's a quick read with a sweet romance that develops at a realistic pace. This is a book to add to your list of holiday reads, as Christmas is the perfect time for miracles. Fans of Amish fiction, as well as those who are looking for a sweet read, will want to add this to their list of books to check out.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
May 20, 2024
First, thank the LORD that the copy I have is in a 2-popper book, because I shudder at how smug and awful the woman on this book is. Major turn-off.
*MOSTLY* I really love Patricia Davids' Amish books, and I recommend them highly on Goodreads to other people. ((((MOSTLY.)))) There are a couple that should never have been published, and I will buy copies of them just to throw away. Those are rare, however. With Davids, it's always been really good or homiGAWSH, kill-it-with-fire bad.
But this book? I'm waffling on how I feel about it, quite honestly. For a LI story, it's really not bad. It has more 'love' than just they typical "long, intense looks" and hand holding most LI stories have, which is a plus. Her brother getting into trouble as the conflict of the book, as well as Michael's battle with PTSD (which I mostly DO NOT tolerate in novels) is surprisingly well done. I'm not a fan o the PTSD schtick (in reality -OR- fiction), so when I say she did it well, it's a HUGE compliment.
However, this book has SO. MANY. OTHER issues.
For one, she has an Amish mother giving her baby a string of beads/buttons to "play with" during a three hour church service. Even idiot Amish would know that's a M.A.S.S.I.V.E. choking hazard, hello - and if they use plastic baggies, have propane hot water tanks and fridges in their houses?! They have a plastic toy key ring from a garage sale that's been boiled for sanitation, for the love of all that's holy.
Davids has written so many Amish series that she apparently forgot that this is a NEW one, about a NEW community "with only twenty adults" in it. She has Bethany walking to church, and there are "Amish families, both on foot and in buggies", with "numerous people offering her rides"... WHAT?!?! There aren't that many people, hello! Not counting the host family or neighbors, there would be eight families, minus hers (seven), minus the walkers (four)... we're down to POSSIBLY five buggies going past. IF they all lived in the same direction... which they wouldn't, since she's "on the edge of town".
BADLY, BADLY done.
On pg. 167 we're told no sin in unforgiveable. I can think of two - Matthew 12:31 (grieving the Holy Spirit), and Revelation 14:9-11 (taking the mark of the beast). Bibles, people. READ. YOUR. BIBLES.
GAHHHHHH!!!!!
On pg 168, Gemma and Bethany spend the day baking "new cookie recipes" and come away with... wait for it... oatmeal, chocolate chip, gingerbread, and sugar cookies". Those are THE LEAST NEW cookies you could possibly make. I mean, I have a Pillsbury baking book, and when I try a new recipe, it's gonna be Spanish peanut pinwheels or Cherry poppyseed or SOMETHING not considered a bloody staple, hello. LI authors apparently get lazy and don't even *TRY* to make it interesting for their readers...
"And what is an Amish settlement without a pizza parlor?" (pg 174).
I. Can't. Even.
"You once said you'd help me with anything I needed."
"I did."
"Here's what I WANT. I WANT... I WANT... I WANT...!!"
AAAARRRRRRRRGGGGHHHHHH!!!!
Would it have *KILLED* Davids to have had continuity and written "I NEED" instead of "I WANT?!" We don't say "WANT" in our house, anyhow, hello - it's greedy. Rub my fur backwards for an entire paragraph why don't you?! Whilst NOT keeping with the wording that would've made the romantic confession wonderful?! Talk about BLOWING it for the reader!!!!!
Another thing - there are *NO* Amish/German words in this book. Most LI authors write gut instead of 'good', and shwester instead of sister, etc. Davids didn't have the time or patience for any of it, and it definitely took away from the flavor of the Amish scene.
On the OTHER hand... The story is good. The characters are solid. The plot makes sense. The relationship is romantic enough to hold me. It's a good book. With too many issues. So... I don't know. I'm on the fence, and can't decide.
*MOSTLY* I really love Patricia Davids' Amish books, and I recommend them highly on Goodreads to other people. ((((MOSTLY.)))) There are a couple that should never have been published, and I will buy copies of them just to throw away. Those are rare, however. With Davids, it's always been really good or homiGAWSH, kill-it-with-fire bad.
But this book? I'm waffling on how I feel about it, quite honestly. For a LI story, it's really not bad. It has more 'love' than just they typical "long, intense looks" and hand holding most LI stories have, which is a plus. Her brother getting into trouble as the conflict of the book, as well as Michael's battle with PTSD (which I mostly DO NOT tolerate in novels) is surprisingly well done. I'm not a fan o the PTSD schtick (in reality -OR- fiction), so when I say she did it well, it's a HUGE compliment.
However, this book has SO. MANY. OTHER issues.
For one, she has an Amish mother giving her baby a string of beads/buttons to "play with" during a three hour church service. Even idiot Amish would know that's a M.A.S.S.I.V.E. choking hazard, hello - and if they use plastic baggies, have propane hot water tanks and fridges in their houses?! They have a plastic toy key ring from a garage sale that's been boiled for sanitation, for the love of all that's holy.
Davids has written so many Amish series that she apparently forgot that this is a NEW one, about a NEW community "with only twenty adults" in it. She has Bethany walking to church, and there are "Amish families, both on foot and in buggies", with "numerous people offering her rides"... WHAT?!?! There aren't that many people, hello! Not counting the host family or neighbors, there would be eight families, minus hers (seven), minus the walkers (four)... we're down to POSSIBLY five buggies going past. IF they all lived in the same direction... which they wouldn't, since she's "on the edge of town".
BADLY, BADLY done.
On pg. 167 we're told no sin in unforgiveable. I can think of two - Matthew 12:31 (grieving the Holy Spirit), and Revelation 14:9-11 (taking the mark of the beast). Bibles, people. READ. YOUR. BIBLES.
GAHHHHHH!!!!!
On pg 168, Gemma and Bethany spend the day baking "new cookie recipes" and come away with... wait for it... oatmeal, chocolate chip, gingerbread, and sugar cookies". Those are THE LEAST NEW cookies you could possibly make. I mean, I have a Pillsbury baking book, and when I try a new recipe, it's gonna be Spanish peanut pinwheels or Cherry poppyseed or SOMETHING not considered a bloody staple, hello. LI authors apparently get lazy and don't even *TRY* to make it interesting for their readers...
"And what is an Amish settlement without a pizza parlor?" (pg 174).
I. Can't. Even.
"You once said you'd help me with anything I needed."
"I did."
"Here's what I WANT. I WANT... I WANT... I WANT...!!"
AAAARRRRRRRRGGGGHHHHHH!!!!
Would it have *KILLED* Davids to have had continuity and written "I NEED" instead of "I WANT?!" We don't say "WANT" in our house, anyhow, hello - it's greedy. Rub my fur backwards for an entire paragraph why don't you?! Whilst NOT keeping with the wording that would've made the romantic confession wonderful?! Talk about BLOWING it for the reader!!!!!
Another thing - there are *NO* Amish/German words in this book. Most LI authors write gut instead of 'good', and shwester instead of sister, etc. Davids didn't have the time or patience for any of it, and it definitely took away from the flavor of the Amish scene.
On the OTHER hand... The story is good. The characters are solid. The plot makes sense. The relationship is romantic enough to hold me. It's a good book. With too many issues. So... I don't know. I'm on the fence, and can't decide.
August 23, 2020
This is about a young Amish man who is suffering from severe PTSD and wants to get away from everyone and be alone.He gets the opportunity when an older Amish man from another Amish Community offers him the chance to come there and work in his watch repair business.When he gets there he finds out the man has passed away and his grown grand daughter Bethany and 2 younger grand kids live in the house where the shop is located.He decides to stay in a cabin on the property and work for her.Will he be able to learn to cope with his PTSD and learn to love again with Bethany and her siblings?
November 29, 2019
This book addresses many topics in a short amount of time. Though the topics addressed were serious the book moved quickly through the resolutions. Not everything can be taken care of in such a short amount of time but the book did try to bring to light that even though people may try their best to shelter themselves from the evils of the world it can find you and you must seek the tools to live with or overcome what is presented to you. And it's always best to do it fully supported.
February 6, 2022
My colleagues started a "bad book club" - meaning a book that we would typically not read. This was the first choice. It's about an (Amish) woman whose grandfather dies and her community wants to send her brother away because there is no man in the house to be a role model. A "stranger" with a traumatic past shows up becomes intertwined with the woman and her family. As expected, it's a bit cheesy and patriarchal.
September 2, 2018
Patricia Davids is a go-to Amish romance author. Her characters stroll gently off the page and invite readers to get to know them. With humor and heartfelt romance, her stories are not easy to put down. I stayed up way too late last night reading Michael and Bethany's story. The giggles were many, but so were the heart wrenching moments. I loved this book!!
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December 6, 2019A fan of Patricia Davids !
A big fan of Patricia David's and her Amish romance books for years. Her stories are always so uplifting. This book is no exception. The story kept me reading late into the night. I believe this book is worth a read. First in a series but can be read as a stand alkne.
A big fan of Patricia David's and her Amish romance books for years. Her stories are always so uplifting. This book is no exception. The story kept me reading late into the night. I believe this book is worth a read. First in a series but can be read as a stand alkne.
January 24, 2020
My Musings
What a heartfelt Christmas tale with endearing characters and an emotionally charged plot. All the secondary characters added a great deal to this book. Amish fiction has become my first choice when looking another book to read. An Amish Wife for Christmas has so much to offer. The character development is amazing. Happy ☺reading 📚!
What a heartfelt Christmas tale with endearing characters and an emotionally charged plot. All the secondary characters added a great deal to this book. Amish fiction has become my first choice when looking another book to read. An Amish Wife for Christmas has so much to offer. The character development is amazing. Happy ☺reading 📚!
June 27, 2022
Both the Bishop and Ivan had me shaking my head. The Bishop could have been more of a leader and helped provide guidance if he chose to.
Ivan is 14 so he is old enough to know that his actions will tear his family apart if he continues. The fact that he didn't seek guidance from his sister, who has always been on his side, makes little sense.
Saddie stole the show.... Loved her so much.
Ivan is 14 so he is old enough to know that his actions will tear his family apart if he continues. The fact that he didn't seek guidance from his sister, who has always been on his side, makes little sense.
Saddie stole the show.... Loved her so much.
January 19, 2023
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jer. 29:11 NIV
When Bethany proclaims her concerns for the future to Clarabelle, so has no idea how God is about to show up unexpectedly and lay out His plans for her life.
Jer. 29:11 NIV
When Bethany proclaims her concerns for the future to Clarabelle, so has no idea how God is about to show up unexpectedly and lay out His plans for her life.
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