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An Amish Christmas Romance #1
The Christmas Remedy: An Amish Christmas Romance
When an Old Order Amish woman takes a job at a small-town pharmacy struggling to survive in a world of "big box" stores, her motive is to help her Plain community. But the advent of the holiday season brings an unusual mystery to the surface--and possibly love. Twenty-four-year-old Holly Zook lives a unique life for a young Amish woman. Years ago, her bishop allowed her to continue her education and become the lead technician for Greene's Pharmacy, an old-timey drugstore that looks out for the Amish community--a group largely without secure healthcare plans. She knows she can't marry and hold onto her professional job. She's Amish, and she can only have one or the other, so she spurns love and works toward addressing treatable diseases--like the one that claimed her father's life. As long as Holly continues to avoid Joshua Smucker, the one man who draws her like a warm hearth in winter, she should be fine. When something unexpected threatens Greene's Pharmacy, Holly and Joshua must work together to unravel what's happened and find the "missing" patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. As the snows of December arrive, with Christmas in the air, will Holly succumb to the generous spirit of the season?
299 pages, Library Binding
Published November 7, 2018
120 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
68 books1,118 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
December 4, 2020
This short and sweet read has a different storyline than the usual Amish romance novels. The main character, Holly, is unique among the Amish with life dreams that don’t easily conform to traditional Amish roles. Her calling is to serve the Amish community’s medical needs through nursing and pharmaceutical work which definitely goes against an Amish woman’s destiny to serve first and foremost as a wife and mother. Pharmacy student Brandon also faces his own internal struggles regarding his future. These parallel characters and instances in their lives nicely illustrate that we should focus on what’s really important in life and love. My only disappointment was that this wasn’t the Christmas read I hoped for. Only the last two chapters really had real mentions of the holiday, while I had hoped for a Christmas theme throughout.
September 26, 2022
A sweet Amish romance. Holly, who is Amish, is working at a pharmacy owned by a non-Amish pharmacist that services the Amish community. When the pharmacist has a medical event and some prescriptions are called into question that he can’t recall, Holly has to team up with Joshua, who is rather Mr. Darcy like in his aloof unfriendliness, to solve the mystery of the missing patient so the pharmacy that serves their community won’t be closed. This was a neat book with lots of great characters and an interesting variation on Amish romances that I hadn’t read before. The writing is excellent and sucks you right in, and I loved getting to know all the side characters. I’ll definitely be reading more books by Cindy Woodsmall.
April 2, 2024
Keep the tissues close by as you are reading THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY. These authors will have your emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to all of these characters. All of the characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. Holly Zook has a dream to bring health care to her Amish people. Her ultimate dream is to become an LPN, so she will then have the right to do more than deliver the life-giving medicines she takes to the area Amish homes that need them.
Just because THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY is only two hundred pages, doesn’t mean you will feel cheated. The story is just the perfect length to meet and care for each character. Holly goes into action after an illness, false claims, and sabotage threatens to close Greene’s Pharmacy. When she needs a friend to help her, Josh steps in. If you have never read these authors, this book would make a perfect introduction to the reader. Get comfortable in your favorite chair and be ready to be totally entertained by these wonderful authors.
THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY is without a doubt one of the best novellas I’ve read. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Cindy and Erin Woodsmall really know how to write about family drama, heartbreak, faith and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more stories by them. They are among my favorite Amish fiction authors and this novella are exactly why.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Just because THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY is only two hundred pages, doesn’t mean you will feel cheated. The story is just the perfect length to meet and care for each character. Holly goes into action after an illness, false claims, and sabotage threatens to close Greene’s Pharmacy. When she needs a friend to help her, Josh steps in. If you have never read these authors, this book would make a perfect introduction to the reader. Get comfortable in your favorite chair and be ready to be totally entertained by these wonderful authors.
THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY is without a doubt one of the best novellas I’ve read. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Cindy and Erin Woodsmall really know how to write about family drama, heartbreak, faith and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more stories by them. They are among my favorite Amish fiction authors and this novella are exactly why.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 1, 2018
This is a sweet Amish story with a mystery to be solved. I thought it was sad that Holly felt like she had to sacrifice marriage and a family in order to have a fulfilling career that would be so beneficial to the members of her Amish community. I liked Joshua and how he helps Holly, even after he discovers he has no hope with her. The element of light suspense kept the plot moving forward and I liked seeing how interconnected the Amish families are and how they were all happy to help. There is a definite warm feeling despite the snowy setting, and I was satisfied with how everything all worked out.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
September 24, 2018
THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY is the first collaboration of Cindy Woodsmall and her daughter-in-law, Erin, although it is the third collaboration published. I like they wrote an Amish Christmas book together. Unlike Ms. Cindy Woodsmall's other Amish Christmas novellas this one has more than hero/heroine's point of view. There is also a touch of mystery (who is sabatoging the pharmacy and why?) And the druggist's son's point of view. There is also a hint of a secondary romance forming as the story unfolds.
I greatly enjoyed THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY and recommend it as a not to be missed Christmas read with a nontraditional Amish lady, a sweet hero raising baby Easter chicks (I researched something there--did you know they lay precolored eggs? Neither did I. Romance books can be educational! Check it out: https://www.fresheggsdaily.com/2012/0...)
I did guess who the bad guy was and why he was doing it, but how was yet to be discovered and I didn't know how he'd be caught. I really enjoyed this story, and now is a great time to preorder it since you'll get another not to be missed book with it. I love the cover of this book, too - an old timey pharmacy on the cover.
Great book.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
I greatly enjoyed THE CHRISTMAS REMEDY and recommend it as a not to be missed Christmas read with a nontraditional Amish lady, a sweet hero raising baby Easter chicks (I researched something there--did you know they lay precolored eggs? Neither did I. Romance books can be educational! Check it out: https://www.fresheggsdaily.com/2012/0...)
I did guess who the bad guy was and why he was doing it, but how was yet to be discovered and I didn't know how he'd be caught. I really enjoyed this story, and now is a great time to preorder it since you'll get another not to be missed book with it. I love the cover of this book, too - an old timey pharmacy on the cover.
Great book.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
November 17, 2018
This story centers around Greene’s Pharmacy family run business. Holly has worked full time at the pharmacy with Lyle Greene since her dad passed. At 15 years old the bishop gave her permission to work full time. Holly Noelle Zook’s passion is to help bridge the gap between the Amish way of life and for them to get the medical care and education they need! Her life’s calling is do further her education in the medical field.
Lyle Green’s son, Brandon lives in the city and going to school. He’s waiting to take the pharmaceutical test when the emergency room calls him about his dad. His father needs him but is too proud to ask for help at the store. Brandon can’t really step up and write prescriptions because he’s not licensed. Brandon is very surprised at how busy the store is and gets help. Then the unthinkable happens and another crisis brings father and son together as they have a short time to get evidence needed to solve a mystery. A mystery (if not solved) that could put Greene’s Pharmacy out of business.
Many topics are brought up in this book like, What makes a family? Can Holly combine her work and a family? What makes a place home? I enjoyed the story, but I missed the depth of character and the natural spiritual thread running through the whole book. There was a good message about Martha and Mary near the end.
It’s a fun intriguing read with characters I liked. I enjoyed the peek into health care from a pharmacist POV and all they go through to help their customers.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://tinyurl.com/y9lwbfrs
SVP Promotion
Lyle Green’s son, Brandon lives in the city and going to school. He’s waiting to take the pharmaceutical test when the emergency room calls him about his dad. His father needs him but is too proud to ask for help at the store. Brandon can’t really step up and write prescriptions because he’s not licensed. Brandon is very surprised at how busy the store is and gets help. Then the unthinkable happens and another crisis brings father and son together as they have a short time to get evidence needed to solve a mystery. A mystery (if not solved) that could put Greene’s Pharmacy out of business.
Many topics are brought up in this book like, What makes a family? Can Holly combine her work and a family? What makes a place home? I enjoyed the story, but I missed the depth of character and the natural spiritual thread running through the whole book. There was a good message about Martha and Mary near the end.
It’s a fun intriguing read with characters I liked. I enjoyed the peek into health care from a pharmacist POV and all they go through to help their customers.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://tinyurl.com/y9lwbfrs
SVP Promotion
January 10, 2019
Holly Zook is unique among the Amish women in her community. This 24 year old Old Order Amish woman has the permission of the bishop in her community to further her education past the usual eighth grade education Amish receive. She has become the lead technician for Greene's Pharmacy an old fashioned drug store where the pharmacist treats her like family . Holly knows she is unable to marry because she knows Amish women are expected to marry young and raise babies right away. Her job wouldn't leave room for both and she knows an Amish man wouldn't allow her to work, she should be in the home he would think. Avoiding the one man should would consider for a romance, Joshua Smucker is not as easy as it should be when they keep seeming to run into each other. The work together to find a "missing" patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. Will Holly let her attraction to Joshua become a romance when she realizes his deep interest in her?
Sweet subtle romance with intrigue and an investigation as well. Very interesting to read about how the Amish feel about health care and pharmacies.
I have always enjoyed books by this author and look forward to reading many more. Highly recommended!
Pub Date 23 Oct 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook & Multnomah through NetGalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sweet subtle romance with intrigue and an investigation as well. Very interesting to read about how the Amish feel about health care and pharmacies.
I have always enjoyed books by this author and look forward to reading many more. Highly recommended!
Pub Date 23 Oct 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook & Multnomah through NetGalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 3, 2018
About this book:
“When an Old Order Amish woman takes a job at a small-town pharmacy struggling to survive in a world of "big box" stores, her motive is to help her Plain community. But the advent of the holiday season brings an unusual mystery to the surface--and possibly love.
Twenty-four-year-old Holly Zook lives a unique life for a young Amish woman. Years ago, her bishop allowed her to continue her education and become the lead technician for Greene's Pharmacy, an old-timey drugstore that looks out for the Amish community--a group largely without secure healthcare plans. She knows she can't marry and hold onto her professional job. She's Amish, and she can only have one or the other, so she spurns love and works toward addressing treatable diseases--like the one that claimed her father's life.
As long as Holly continues to avoid Joshua Smucker, the one man who draws her like a warm hearth in winter, she should be fine. When something unexpected threatens Greene's Pharmacy, Holly and Joshua must work together to unravel what's happened and find the "missing" patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. As the snows of December arrive, with Christmas in the air, will Holly succumb to the generous spirit of the season?”
Series: As I can tell, no.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Blessings over food; Christmas & Hymns; Talks about God & those in the Bible; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of those in the Bible; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of bishops/deacons & ministers/preachers; Mentions of Christmas & the reason; Mentions of hymns/Christmas songs & youth groups; A couple mentions of thanking God; A couple mentions of miracles; A mention of being blessed;
*Note: a ‘for Pete’s sake’ is said; A mention of atheists.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘dumb’, a ‘rats’, and four ‘stupid’s; A bit of eye rolling; A few mentions of curses (said, not written); Mentions of finding people passed out & one who died after (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of illegal actions; Mentions of baby chickens dying or being killed; Mentions of lies & lying; A few mentions of injuries & possible deaths; A couple mentions of gossip; A mention of kidnapping; A mention of gambling.
Sexual Content- two hand kisses, two head/forehead kisses, two barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Noticing (lightly x2); Mentions of singles events, being asked out, dating/courting, dates, girlfriends, & breakups; A couple mentions of mistletoe kisses; Love, falling in love, & the emotions (lightly x2);
*Note: A mention of some Amish men believing a woman’s calling is to find a husband, serve him well, and populate the earth with obedient, well-behaved offspring (Holly says “Thanks, but no”); A mention of fertility issues & the Amish church frowning on getting help; A mention of a life of celibacy.
-Holly Noelle Zook
-Joshua Smucker
P.O.V. switches between them & Brandon
198 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
{Add ½ to a full star for older girls interested in pharmaceutical careers.}
While this book was way more pharmaceutical and medicine related than I was expecting, it still had some parts I liked. It wasn’t as Christmassy as I was expecting either, though, with page 147 being when Christmas started to get mentioned out of 198 pages with a couple song mentions earlier. Not quite my cup of tea, but it was very clean, so I appreciate that. :)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Waterbrook) for this honest review.
“When an Old Order Amish woman takes a job at a small-town pharmacy struggling to survive in a world of "big box" stores, her motive is to help her Plain community. But the advent of the holiday season brings an unusual mystery to the surface--and possibly love.
Twenty-four-year-old Holly Zook lives a unique life for a young Amish woman. Years ago, her bishop allowed her to continue her education and become the lead technician for Greene's Pharmacy, an old-timey drugstore that looks out for the Amish community--a group largely without secure healthcare plans. She knows she can't marry and hold onto her professional job. She's Amish, and she can only have one or the other, so she spurns love and works toward addressing treatable diseases--like the one that claimed her father's life.
As long as Holly continues to avoid Joshua Smucker, the one man who draws her like a warm hearth in winter, she should be fine. When something unexpected threatens Greene's Pharmacy, Holly and Joshua must work together to unravel what's happened and find the "missing" patient before the Board of Pharmacy shuts them down. As the snows of December arrive, with Christmas in the air, will Holly succumb to the generous spirit of the season?”
Series: As I can tell, no.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Blessings over food; Christmas & Hymns; Talks about God & those in the Bible; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of those in the Bible; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of bishops/deacons & ministers/preachers; Mentions of Christmas & the reason; Mentions of hymns/Christmas songs & youth groups; A couple mentions of thanking God; A couple mentions of miracles; A mention of being blessed;
*Note: a ‘for Pete’s sake’ is said; A mention of atheists.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘dumb’, a ‘rats’, and four ‘stupid’s; A bit of eye rolling; A few mentions of curses (said, not written); Mentions of finding people passed out & one who died after (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of illegal actions; Mentions of baby chickens dying or being killed; Mentions of lies & lying; A few mentions of injuries & possible deaths; A couple mentions of gossip; A mention of kidnapping; A mention of gambling.
Sexual Content- two hand kisses, two head/forehead kisses, two barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Noticing (lightly x2); Mentions of singles events, being asked out, dating/courting, dates, girlfriends, & breakups; A couple mentions of mistletoe kisses; Love, falling in love, & the emotions (lightly x2);
*Note: A mention of some Amish men believing a woman’s calling is to find a husband, serve him well, and populate the earth with obedient, well-behaved offspring (Holly says “Thanks, but no”); A mention of fertility issues & the Amish church frowning on getting help; A mention of a life of celibacy.
-Holly Noelle Zook
-Joshua Smucker
P.O.V. switches between them & Brandon
198 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
{Add ½ to a full star for older girls interested in pharmaceutical careers.}
While this book was way more pharmaceutical and medicine related than I was expecting, it still had some parts I liked. It wasn’t as Christmassy as I was expecting either, though, with page 147 being when Christmas started to get mentioned out of 198 pages with a couple song mentions earlier. Not quite my cup of tea, but it was very clean, so I appreciate that. :)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Waterbrook) for this honest review.
July 27, 2018
Holly Zook has a dream to bring health care to her Amish people. When her father died young of a completely preventable condition, Holly's zeal to get her people to understand their need for health care began. She got permission from her bishop to pursue her education past the 8th grade, and got her certification as a pharmacy tech. Even though she is beautiful, and often pursued by the area bachelors, she knows that in order to stay her course, she can never marry. Her ultimate dream is to become an LPN, so she will then have the right to do more than deliver the life-giving medicines she takes to the area Amish homes that need them.
When Joshua Smucker comes to Greene's to pick up his mother's insulin, Holly is confronted with the one man who might have a chance to knock her off her course. When Greene's Pharmacy is hit by dual problems that threaten to put them out of business, can Joshua and Holly work together with her English bosses to keep the store open, and the Amish community served? Most important, can Josh convince Holly to give them a chance at forever, together?
This Christmas novella drove home to me more of the hardships that the Amish endure. Cindy & Erin Woodsmall use a gentle hand, always pointing out the good that comes with the bad in Amish life, and always showing the Amish reliance on God for their provision. Cindy Woodsmall has long been a favorite of mine in the realm of Amish fiction, and this one did not disappoint. I definitely recommend it!
When Joshua Smucker comes to Greene's to pick up his mother's insulin, Holly is confronted with the one man who might have a chance to knock her off her course. When Greene's Pharmacy is hit by dual problems that threaten to put them out of business, can Joshua and Holly work together with her English bosses to keep the store open, and the Amish community served? Most important, can Josh convince Holly to give them a chance at forever, together?
This Christmas novella drove home to me more of the hardships that the Amish endure. Cindy & Erin Woodsmall use a gentle hand, always pointing out the good that comes with the bad in Amish life, and always showing the Amish reliance on God for their provision. Cindy Woodsmall has long been a favorite of mine in the realm of Amish fiction, and this one did not disappoint. I definitely recommend it!
November 26, 2018
Not your typical young Amish woman, Holly feels a calling to help her Amish community with their health needs. She was given permission to get her GED in order to take nursing classes to be an LPN. She works in the town’s pharmacy and has no plans to marry. But no matter how well-planned a life is, something is bound to happen to upset those plans. In this case, it is a young Amish man named Josh. Still, Holly will not give up her dream, even if it means giving up Josh. This co-authored book is an interesting departure from a typical Amish story in that Holly has more than an eighth-grade education and her district allowed her to have that and more. How it all comes about and how the young couple work out their differences, as well as plot involving the problems the pharmacy faces, make for an entertaining and delightful Christmas tale.
September 26, 2018
This Amish Christmas story centers around Greene's Pharmacy. Lyle, the pharmacist and owner, his son Brandon, Holly, a pharmacy tech, and Josh, the young farmer. Holly is a young, independent Amish woman dedicated to modern healthcare and preventative methods, especially for the Amish. She has the blessing of her Old Order Amish Bishop to work as a tech while studying to become an LPN. Holly goes into action after an illness, false claims, and sabotage threatens to close Greene's Pharmacy. When she needs a friend to help her, Josh steps in. This contemporary novel has a little romance, drama, and mystery that combines to make it a real page turner. I received a copy of this book from the publisher Waterbrook & Multnomah in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2018
I love a good Christmas story, so the cover of The Christmas Remedy, with its charming snowy scene depicting old-timey Greene's Pharmacy, drew me right in.
The story centers around Holly Zook and the choices she must make as an Amish woman. Does she follow her heart and help her community understand and embrace quality healthcare through her job as a pharmacy tech, or does she do what's expected of an Amish woman and accept the traditional role of wife and mother. This seems to be an "either or" choice with little room for compromise. Holly's attraction to Josh Smucker makes the decision all the more difficul to make. There is so much to admire and respect about the Amish people and their values, but I was glad to see a nontraditional role presented as a possibility for Holly.
There's a good amount of inside information about being a pharmacist and the running of a drugstore passed on through the characters of Lyle and his son Brandon. There's also a mystery concerning the pharmacy and whether it will be able to stay open if things don't improve.
I enjoyed this sweet story of a young Amish woman coming into her own, finding her place in this world and her surprise in discovering a young man who could love her just as she is, progressive ideas and all. The Christmas Remedy is a nice book to curl up with beside a glowing fireplace while indulging in a pot of tea and a plate of Christmas cookies, pure enjoyment.
I appreciate Waterbrook Press for making a copy of The Christmas Remedy available for review.
The story centers around Holly Zook and the choices she must make as an Amish woman. Does she follow her heart and help her community understand and embrace quality healthcare through her job as a pharmacy tech, or does she do what's expected of an Amish woman and accept the traditional role of wife and mother. This seems to be an "either or" choice with little room for compromise. Holly's attraction to Josh Smucker makes the decision all the more difficul to make. There is so much to admire and respect about the Amish people and their values, but I was glad to see a nontraditional role presented as a possibility for Holly.
There's a good amount of inside information about being a pharmacist and the running of a drugstore passed on through the characters of Lyle and his son Brandon. There's also a mystery concerning the pharmacy and whether it will be able to stay open if things don't improve.
I enjoyed this sweet story of a young Amish woman coming into her own, finding her place in this world and her surprise in discovering a young man who could love her just as she is, progressive ideas and all. The Christmas Remedy is a nice book to curl up with beside a glowing fireplace while indulging in a pot of tea and a plate of Christmas cookies, pure enjoyment.
I appreciate Waterbrook Press for making a copy of The Christmas Remedy available for review.
August 31, 2019
Holly Noelle, a young Amish woman who wants to continue working after marriage must reconcile her career aspirations with her romantic interest in Josh, a young Amish chicken farmer. The characters are sweet and engaging, but the Amish “setting” is minimal, probably due to the fact that the story revolves around Greene’s Pharmacy which is Holly’s workplace. Although set at Christmas time, that is definitely not the focus of the story but rather Holly’s attempt to get Amish people to go to medical doctors and take their prescriptions. Overly preachy on this subject which is a bit jarring especially at a time period in which lots of non-Amish are questioning the over-use of prescriptions pharmaceuticals. Otherwise a quick, fun read.
October 26, 2018
The Christmas Remedy is a lovely story of faith, romance and healing of family relationships and friendships. Holly Noelle Zook feels a calling to help her Amish people get health care that they normally would not seek. She works as a pharmacy tech for Greene's Pharmacy in her small rural town in Pennsylvania and has worked hard to plan a health fair for the community, in particular the Amish. Lyle Greene is the owner of the pharmacy and has devoted his life to help Amish and others who can't afford the medicines they need, get them, even if his business suffers. Julie is a nurse practitioner who could be earning more money in the city but feels led to help the rural population, including the Amish.
When Lyle has a stroke, his son, Brandon, has to come home to help out the pharmacy, even though he is in the middle of studying for his pharmacy state board exam. He has hopes of working for a large pharmacy in the city. Lyle and Brandon need to heal their relationship that has been strained since the death of their wife and mother.
When Joshua goes to pick up medicine for his mamm who has just been diagnosed with diabetes, he ran into Holly. The two enjoyed a light friendship through events in the church until he asked her out. Holly's calling to help the Amish means that she can't marry and have a family and work because the church prohibits it, so she avoids a relationship with Joshua.
When someone turns in the pharmacy for filling some prescriptions without a doctor's script, everyone starts working to solve what happened. The date of the prescriptions was on the Sunday before Lyle's stroke and he doesn't remember that day and no hard copies can be found to show what happened. A few fill-in pharmacists are working at the pharmacy to help since Lyle's stroke. Could one of them be involved in turning Lyle in? It is said that things happen for a reason and maybe God allowed the events to happen to bring people together to mend their relationships and see what is really important, especially at Christmastime. This is an uplifting story of putting others first with some romance and mystery interspersed.
I received an ARC from WaterBrook Publishing through NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions stated for mine only.
When Lyle has a stroke, his son, Brandon, has to come home to help out the pharmacy, even though he is in the middle of studying for his pharmacy state board exam. He has hopes of working for a large pharmacy in the city. Lyle and Brandon need to heal their relationship that has been strained since the death of their wife and mother.
When Joshua goes to pick up medicine for his mamm who has just been diagnosed with diabetes, he ran into Holly. The two enjoyed a light friendship through events in the church until he asked her out. Holly's calling to help the Amish means that she can't marry and have a family and work because the church prohibits it, so she avoids a relationship with Joshua.
When someone turns in the pharmacy for filling some prescriptions without a doctor's script, everyone starts working to solve what happened. The date of the prescriptions was on the Sunday before Lyle's stroke and he doesn't remember that day and no hard copies can be found to show what happened. A few fill-in pharmacists are working at the pharmacy to help since Lyle's stroke. Could one of them be involved in turning Lyle in? It is said that things happen for a reason and maybe God allowed the events to happen to bring people together to mend their relationships and see what is really important, especially at Christmastime. This is an uplifting story of putting others first with some romance and mystery interspersed.
I received an ARC from WaterBrook Publishing through NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions stated for mine only.
December 13, 2018
Holly Zook is not like other Amish women you might read about in Amish fiction. Holly has goals for her life. She has a GED and is a certified pharmacy tech working at Greens Pharmacy in Raysburg. She wants to be excepted into nursing school with the hopes of becoming an LPN. But most surprisingly she has done all of this with her bishops blessings.
Holly wants to educate the Amish of her community, to the importance of taking better care of themselves. Her father died much to young because he ignored the warnings his body tried to give him that all was not well. Holly is very committed to her mission even if it means not marrying and raising a family. But then along comes Joshua Smucker from another community, with his charming smile and tries to change her mind.
This story has a lot of characters, the main one being Holly. There's Lyle the head pharmacist and owner of Greens Pharmacy. Brandon is Lyle's son, who has completed his studies at the university and now going through the steps to get his license as a Dr. of Pharmaceutical medicine. Doc Jules who sends her Amish patients to Greens Pharmacy to get their prescriptions filled at a reasonable cost. Joshua Smucker who lives with his parents on their chicken farm and helps to run the business. These are only a few of the characters in this story.
The authors poured a lot of research into this story, about the pharmaceutical industry , which made it seem more real. A lot goes into filling prescriptions that most of us don't give a thought to or have a clue about. I enjoyed the element of mystery when someone tries to sabotage Greens Pharmacy and the board of health does an investigation into the report with the possibility of high fines and shut down, with Lyle losing his license to fill prescriptions. Holly's determination to her cause and Joshua's willingness to help the pharmacy when things looked bad for it's future.
This is a nice Christmas read and all readers of Amish Fiction would enjoy it. I hope you will add The Christmas Remedy to your TBR pile .
Holly wants to educate the Amish of her community, to the importance of taking better care of themselves. Her father died much to young because he ignored the warnings his body tried to give him that all was not well. Holly is very committed to her mission even if it means not marrying and raising a family. But then along comes Joshua Smucker from another community, with his charming smile and tries to change her mind.
This story has a lot of characters, the main one being Holly. There's Lyle the head pharmacist and owner of Greens Pharmacy. Brandon is Lyle's son, who has completed his studies at the university and now going through the steps to get his license as a Dr. of Pharmaceutical medicine. Doc Jules who sends her Amish patients to Greens Pharmacy to get their prescriptions filled at a reasonable cost. Joshua Smucker who lives with his parents on their chicken farm and helps to run the business. These are only a few of the characters in this story.
The authors poured a lot of research into this story, about the pharmaceutical industry , which made it seem more real. A lot goes into filling prescriptions that most of us don't give a thought to or have a clue about. I enjoyed the element of mystery when someone tries to sabotage Greens Pharmacy and the board of health does an investigation into the report with the possibility of high fines and shut down, with Lyle losing his license to fill prescriptions. Holly's determination to her cause and Joshua's willingness to help the pharmacy when things looked bad for it's future.
This is a nice Christmas read and all readers of Amish Fiction would enjoy it. I hope you will add The Christmas Remedy to your TBR pile .
December 1, 2018
Holly Zook has respectfully pressed beyond the Amish social norms to become a pharmacy tech, and she is even pursuing further education with the support of her bishop. She sees the need for her people to realize that consistent medical care can save lives and reduce physical suffering. Understanding that this strange passion may lead her to a life of singleness, since working outside the home is frowned upon once a woman marries, Holly is willing to make the sacrifice.
Working at Greene's Pharmacy has been fulfilling for her, not just because she's able to help people, but also because pharmacist Lyle Greene has become a father figure in Holly's life after her own father's early passing. As our story opens Lyle is facing a health crisis of his own, and the complications that come with it may mean that the pharmacy has to permanently close its doors.
While fighting for her friend and the business close to her heart, Holly must work with Lyle's son Brandon, who is on the verge of receiving his pharmacist's license himself, and Joshua Smucker, a young Amish man from a neighboring district who has liked Holly from afar. As Christmas approaches, can they save Greene's Pharmacy and bring better awareness of medical care to Holly's beloved Amish people?
I appreciated Holly's determination to help her community and her willingness to push past tradition. I confess I found it hard to get into this book at first for a few reasons, but the more I got into the story the more I enjoyed it. I liked that the obstacles our characters faced all carried weight and were not easily overcome, because it gave the story a level of reality as they worked for a good outcome through all the trials.
If you enjoy heartwarming Amish fiction or holiday stories, this might be one for you to pick up!
I received an advanced reading copy from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
Working at Greene's Pharmacy has been fulfilling for her, not just because she's able to help people, but also because pharmacist Lyle Greene has become a father figure in Holly's life after her own father's early passing. As our story opens Lyle is facing a health crisis of his own, and the complications that come with it may mean that the pharmacy has to permanently close its doors.
While fighting for her friend and the business close to her heart, Holly must work with Lyle's son Brandon, who is on the verge of receiving his pharmacist's license himself, and Joshua Smucker, a young Amish man from a neighboring district who has liked Holly from afar. As Christmas approaches, can they save Greene's Pharmacy and bring better awareness of medical care to Holly's beloved Amish people?
I appreciated Holly's determination to help her community and her willingness to push past tradition. I confess I found it hard to get into this book at first for a few reasons, but the more I got into the story the more I enjoyed it. I liked that the obstacles our characters faced all carried weight and were not easily overcome, because it gave the story a level of reality as they worked for a good outcome through all the trials.
If you enjoy heartwarming Amish fiction or holiday stories, this might be one for you to pick up!
I received an advanced reading copy from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
October 3, 2018
The Christmas Remedy, by Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall is a nice little story that blends the English and the Amish lives. Holly took a job working at Greene's Pharmacy after the death of her father. She has received permission from her bishop to work towards becoming a nurse. Her desire is to help the Amish community become better aware of their health needs and understand the care recommended for them. To do this she feels she needs to give up being a wife and mother.
Holly's employer and dear friend, Lyle, suffers a stroke. A member of the State Board of Pharmacy shows up to investigate five prescriptions that were filled the day before Lyle's stroke. Lyle cannot remember that day at all. Trying to help get the information needed, Holly turns to Joshua Smucker, a young man from a nearby community, to help locate the person the medication was for.
This is a great story. With just 200 pages, the story is filled with goodwill, caring for others, restoring relationships, mystery and romance. The part of the story that really stands out to me is when Lyle's son comes home to help his father. The son is so resentful of his father's reaction after his mother's death as well as how his father runs Greene's Pharmacy. But with helping run the pharmacy and visiting with others in the community, the son is able to see the other side of the story. I also enjoyed reading the part of Holly's sister helping decorate the store. She admits she enjoys the Christmas tree, even though their religion does not allow for them to have one.
I really enjoyed this story. I feel anyone who enjoys reading Amish fiction will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook & Multnomah. This is my honest review.
198 pages
ISBN: 9780735291041
My Rating: 5 star
Holly's employer and dear friend, Lyle, suffers a stroke. A member of the State Board of Pharmacy shows up to investigate five prescriptions that were filled the day before Lyle's stroke. Lyle cannot remember that day at all. Trying to help get the information needed, Holly turns to Joshua Smucker, a young man from a nearby community, to help locate the person the medication was for.
This is a great story. With just 200 pages, the story is filled with goodwill, caring for others, restoring relationships, mystery and romance. The part of the story that really stands out to me is when Lyle's son comes home to help his father. The son is so resentful of his father's reaction after his mother's death as well as how his father runs Greene's Pharmacy. But with helping run the pharmacy and visiting with others in the community, the son is able to see the other side of the story. I also enjoyed reading the part of Holly's sister helping decorate the store. She admits she enjoys the Christmas tree, even though their religion does not allow for them to have one.
I really enjoyed this story. I feel anyone who enjoys reading Amish fiction will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook & Multnomah. This is my honest review.
198 pages
ISBN: 9780735291041
My Rating: 5 star
August 30, 2018
I've loved Cindy Woodsmall's writings for a while, and now she's collaborating with her daughter-in-law, Erin, and together they are making beautiful, novel music together. I know Cindy best for her Amish fiction, and now that she's collaborating with Erin, her Amish fiction has taken a step up in the quality department.
The Christmas Remedy is the kind of book that reaches to the dark corners of the heart and awakens them. Holly works as a pharmacy technician by the permission of her bishop. She did have to get her GED first, and now she's working toward her LPN degree to be more active in the health of the Amish people. With her nursing license, she could answer questions about the medications the doctors prescribed.
Because Holly delivers prescriptions for the Greene Pharmacy, she met Joshua Smucker. He is a sweet Amish man who has a distinct interest in Holly. Holly is equally interested but she's committed to her path of becoming a nurse, and she believes that precludes marriage.
Romance is not all that Cindy and Erin have put into this book, there is a bit of intrigue and investigation. Someone has framed the pharmacist for filling prescriptions without a doctor's order, and it takes all the resources of the pharmacy to find out the truth.
This is a five star book, a quick read, two thumbs up, and a fried apple pie, the Amish Way.
Waterbrook/Multnomah provided the galley I read through NetGalley.com. All they asked was a review with my honest opinion.
The Christmas Remedy is the kind of book that reaches to the dark corners of the heart and awakens them. Holly works as a pharmacy technician by the permission of her bishop. She did have to get her GED first, and now she's working toward her LPN degree to be more active in the health of the Amish people. With her nursing license, she could answer questions about the medications the doctors prescribed.
Because Holly delivers prescriptions for the Greene Pharmacy, she met Joshua Smucker. He is a sweet Amish man who has a distinct interest in Holly. Holly is equally interested but she's committed to her path of becoming a nurse, and she believes that precludes marriage.
Romance is not all that Cindy and Erin have put into this book, there is a bit of intrigue and investigation. Someone has framed the pharmacist for filling prescriptions without a doctor's order, and it takes all the resources of the pharmacy to find out the truth.
This is a five star book, a quick read, two thumbs up, and a fried apple pie, the Amish Way.
Waterbrook/Multnomah provided the galley I read through NetGalley.com. All they asked was a review with my honest opinion.
July 9, 2018
A delightful Christmas story surrounding Holly Noelle Zook, an Amish woman who has been able to get the permission of her bishop to continue her education to become a Pharmacy Technician, and to further become a nurse. She wants to help prevent any deaths that conventional healthcare might help to avoid in the Amish community. She also wants them to be comfortable with the English pharmacy when they need medications. Holly has worked Greene’s Pharmacy since her father died several years prior.
She knows that if she chooses to follow this career path, that as an Amish woman, she would not be able to marry and raise a family as the Amish require newlywed women and new mothers to stay home to focus on their family.
After the owner, Lyle Greene suffers a stroke, several things occur in the pharmacy that lead her and an Amish friend she had met in the past, Joshua Smucker, to try to solve the reasons that may cause the pharmacy to have to close. They work with Lyle Greene’s son, Brandon, to solve this mystery.
The book is a sweet story of traditional family and teachings, non-traditional family, and friendships crossing the Amish/English lines. Love also plays a big part in the story.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it to those loving to read Amish genre and Christmas books.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from Netgalley and Waterbrook/Multnomah publishers in return for my honest opinion.
She knows that if she chooses to follow this career path, that as an Amish woman, she would not be able to marry and raise a family as the Amish require newlywed women and new mothers to stay home to focus on their family.
After the owner, Lyle Greene suffers a stroke, several things occur in the pharmacy that lead her and an Amish friend she had met in the past, Joshua Smucker, to try to solve the reasons that may cause the pharmacy to have to close. They work with Lyle Greene’s son, Brandon, to solve this mystery.
The book is a sweet story of traditional family and teachings, non-traditional family, and friendships crossing the Amish/English lines. Love also plays a big part in the story.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it to those loving to read Amish genre and Christmas books.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from Netgalley and Waterbrook/Multnomah publishers in return for my honest opinion.
August 11, 2018
Cindy and Erin Woodsmall’s latest book about the Amish will bring smiles and laughter to readers. I will honestly say that I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it at first. I thought the premise…a young Amish girl allowed to work in a pharmacy…seemed odd and I didn’t think it would work. I am happy to report that I was wrong. I am glad I gave the story a chance because the characters really warmed my heart and brought a new dimension to the Amish I hadn’t given much thought too in the past: health care. The Amish have an innate distrust of “Englishers” and this includes doctors and nurses. When Holly Zook’s father dies because he was unaware of how to take care of himself when she was a young girl, Holly decides that nobody else in her community should suffer without proper knowledge. She becomes a certified pharmacy tech and works to teach others about healthy living and the importance of medication. She accepts that she will never marry and is okay with that. When the pharmacy that she works for is threatened, however, she must find a way to save it, with the help of the only man she ever wanted to be more than friends with. Will they save the pharmacy? And will he maybe save her as well?
This story is good clean fun and truly enjoyable. I would highly recommend it for lovers of Amish fiction. I received a free copy of the story in exchange for my honest review from NetGalley. All opinions are expressly my own.
This story is good clean fun and truly enjoyable. I would highly recommend it for lovers of Amish fiction. I received a free copy of the story in exchange for my honest review from NetGalley. All opinions are expressly my own.
August 31, 2018
First of all I love the cover! The book was well written, full of heart and warmth. Holly Noelle is in a "fight" to help her Amish community educate themselves on their health and ways to prevent illness. Sometimes it seems like an uphill battle against the Old Order ways and medicines they don't think they need. Their attitude, "when it's my time to go, God will take me no matter what." But Holly is determined after losing her father to a preventable illness.
Trying to help her is the pharmacist at Greene's Pharmacy but he soon has a health issue that prevents him from working. On top of that, a crisis befalls the welfare of the store that could shut it down for good.
This was full of emotion for me and I throughly enjoyed it. Put in a love for community, a little mystery, and budding romances and you have a first class trip to Raysburg.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook Publishers but was not required to write a review.
Trying to help her is the pharmacist at Greene's Pharmacy but he soon has a health issue that prevents him from working. On top of that, a crisis befalls the welfare of the store that could shut it down for good.
This was full of emotion for me and I throughly enjoyed it. Put in a love for community, a little mystery, and budding romances and you have a first class trip to Raysburg.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook Publishers but was not required to write a review.
September 12, 2018
Well, I love Amish fiction and I love Christmas books. So for me this was a great combo. Holly Noelle Zook works at a pharmacy and this is not your typical Amish occupation. But she tries to help her Amish people to get the help they need before things are too late and so she feels that this is her path for life. Not wanting the married, stay at home life she is expected to have.
This is a very interesting book with some mystery, romance and the combination of Cindy and Erin Woodsmall seems to work very well in this book.
I received an ebook copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
This is a very interesting book with some mystery, romance and the combination of Cindy and Erin Woodsmall seems to work very well in this book.
I received an ebook copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
September 26, 2018
Was approved if this book from NetGalley it is a very good story,
Holly went into the old pharmacy building where she worked. She closed the red door and entered into a room that smelled like an old attic. Lyle was the pharmacist there. Holly was taking classes to be an LPN which would help her work at the pharmacy. Holly and Lyle and Dr. Jules were working together to get the Amish to understand their medications better. But the event's of the holidays brings an unusual mystery to the surface and possibly love. Holly is my favorite character she is very unique for a amish women!!! Hope you pre-order your copy soon. You won't want to miss out on the adventures of Holly...
Holly went into the old pharmacy building where she worked. She closed the red door and entered into a room that smelled like an old attic. Lyle was the pharmacist there. Holly was taking classes to be an LPN which would help her work at the pharmacy. Holly and Lyle and Dr. Jules were working together to get the Amish to understand their medications better. But the event's of the holidays brings an unusual mystery to the surface and possibly love. Holly is my favorite character she is very unique for a amish women!!! Hope you pre-order your copy soon. You won't want to miss out on the adventures of Holly...
October 24, 2020
Holly Zook has a huge heart for her Amish community and has obtained special permission from her bishop to pursue a nursing degree. She's spent a number of years working at Greene's Pharmacy and loves her role.
Brandon Greene is close to becoming a pharmacist but has no desire to follow in his father's footsteps and run the family business.
When tragedy strikes, things change for both Holly and Brandon.
Joshua Smucker, a chicken farmer, is smitten with Holly. I would have liked for there to be a little more detail about his occupation as a free range chicken farmer.
The detail about running a pharmacy and the troubles that came about for Greene's Pharmacy added to the novel. Overall, a good Christmas story about family and being a Mary instead of Martha.
Brandon Greene is close to becoming a pharmacist but has no desire to follow in his father's footsteps and run the family business.
When tragedy strikes, things change for both Holly and Brandon.
Joshua Smucker, a chicken farmer, is smitten with Holly. I would have liked for there to be a little more detail about his occupation as a free range chicken farmer.
The detail about running a pharmacy and the troubles that came about for Greene's Pharmacy added to the novel. Overall, a good Christmas story about family and being a Mary instead of Martha.
November 25, 2018
Since her father's death, Holly has been able to live a different life for being Amish. She started working at Green's Pharmacy in town and she realized she loved being able to help her people with health questions. Her bishop has allowed her to get her GED, become a pharmacy tech and now take classes to become a licensed practicing nurse. This will allow her to answer customer questions when it comes to her deliveries of their medicines. She knows her love for her job will keep her from getting married or so she thinks. Holly did not expect to find someone like Joshua.
Joshua knows Holly from some local singings but then she disappeared. He never expected to run into her on her worst day. He runs to Greene's Pharmacy to pick up his mother's new diabetes medicine but when he gets there the pharmacy is closed. Holly returns from her deliveries and becomes concerned when the pharmacy is still closed. As she opens up she finds Mr. Greene laying in the floor. With Josh's help she able to get Mr. Greene the help he needs.
What will happen to the pharmacy and can Holly control her heart when Josh is around? Will her career stop before it even began?
I could not put this book down. The idea of an Amish being able to follow her calling without having to leave the faith was a wonderful change. If you think about it what could be better. We all trust those most like us, it is human nature. Holly understands their hesitancy to take medicine and go against the belief of "it is God's will". Her goal is to prevent deaths that were preventable if they had just gone to the doctor and took their medicine as prescribed.
I applaud the Woodsmall's for creating an Amish male character that is open to change and seeing the woman not just as a homemaker. Josh understands that Holly is invested in her community and is willing to give up a life with another to help keep her community healthy.
A beautifully written tale of romance and change. If you like Christian fiction pick this book up. You won't be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy from WaterBrook & Multnomah through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
Joshua knows Holly from some local singings but then she disappeared. He never expected to run into her on her worst day. He runs to Greene's Pharmacy to pick up his mother's new diabetes medicine but when he gets there the pharmacy is closed. Holly returns from her deliveries and becomes concerned when the pharmacy is still closed. As she opens up she finds Mr. Greene laying in the floor. With Josh's help she able to get Mr. Greene the help he needs.
What will happen to the pharmacy and can Holly control her heart when Josh is around? Will her career stop before it even began?
I could not put this book down. The idea of an Amish being able to follow her calling without having to leave the faith was a wonderful change. If you think about it what could be better. We all trust those most like us, it is human nature. Holly understands their hesitancy to take medicine and go against the belief of "it is God's will". Her goal is to prevent deaths that were preventable if they had just gone to the doctor and took their medicine as prescribed.
I applaud the Woodsmall's for creating an Amish male character that is open to change and seeing the woman not just as a homemaker. Josh understands that Holly is invested in her community and is willing to give up a life with another to help keep her community healthy.
A beautifully written tale of romance and change. If you like Christian fiction pick this book up. You won't be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy from WaterBrook & Multnomah through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
October 6, 2018
Cindy Woodsmall always satisfies with her distinctive Amish fiction. This is a real team effort, co-written with her daughter-in-law, Erin, and well-detailed with the professional help of Adam and Shweta Woodsmall,both PharmD. I really learned a LOT about pharmacies in this small book!
Main Amish characters Holly and Joshua are both likeable workaholics who are a bit backwards in the courtship department, according to their families. She is dedicated to bringing modern medical care to her sometimes reluctant Amish community; he is committed to bringing his father's poultry farm up to date in the free-range/organic market. They each admit to themself that they are attracted to the other, but somehow feel marriage is not a viable option. It takes some uncomfortable honesty for them to admit their similarities and differences before they can tackle a problem together that threatens their community's health. Their time and (successful) effort eventually bring them to see the inevitability of a future together. Like we readers didn't see THIS coming!
As usual, Woodsmall is an expert at weaving the Amish and Englicsh communities into a strong, beautiful fabric. The relationship between Old Order Holly and her old-fashioned boss Lyle is tender and heartwarming, and shows the capacity for compromise between cultures. This book was really a joy to read, and left me humming Christmas carols months ahead of schedule. I am so grateful I received an early uncorrected proof from the authors, and I heartily recommend The Christmas Remedy to all lovers of quality Amish fiction.
Main Amish characters Holly and Joshua are both likeable workaholics who are a bit backwards in the courtship department, according to their families. She is dedicated to bringing modern medical care to her sometimes reluctant Amish community; he is committed to bringing his father's poultry farm up to date in the free-range/organic market. They each admit to themself that they are attracted to the other, but somehow feel marriage is not a viable option. It takes some uncomfortable honesty for them to admit their similarities and differences before they can tackle a problem together that threatens their community's health. Their time and (successful) effort eventually bring them to see the inevitability of a future together. Like we readers didn't see THIS coming!
As usual, Woodsmall is an expert at weaving the Amish and Englicsh communities into a strong, beautiful fabric. The relationship between Old Order Holly and her old-fashioned boss Lyle is tender and heartwarming, and shows the capacity for compromise between cultures. This book was really a joy to read, and left me humming Christmas carols months ahead of schedule. I am so grateful I received an early uncorrected proof from the authors, and I heartily recommend The Christmas Remedy to all lovers of quality Amish fiction.
October 19, 2018
The Christmas Remedy by Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall is a lovely story about a young Amish woman who wants to help her community by becoming a licensed pharmacist. When the pharmacist she works for falls ill the pharmacy falls into trouble. The arrival of his son who is just about to get his license and the appearance of an old friend hurt the situation but in the end do we find they help?
It's a cute story set around Christmastime. It is a Christmas story but there's not much Christmas in it. I get the Amish don't have big celebrations. They celebrate the day and that’s it so for them they wouldn't be doing all the Christmasy stuff in December. But, Holly does work for a secular pharmacist. It's not even until the middle of the book Christmas is even mentioned. Then it slowly makes its way through the book by Holly and her sister decorating the store. I don’t mind Christmas not being more prevalent I just think it's odd with the title being The Christmas Remedy. The only thing Christmas is it is set at Christmastime. Christmas really has nothing to do with the plot.
It reminded me of a Hallmark story. If you like those movies you will enjoy this book.
On page 123 the end of the chapter seems to be a major typo. The final paragraph is as follows "Despite herself, she could feel heat creep up her own cheeks. For both their sakes, he needed to connect with Ivy. he"
It's a cute story set around Christmastime. It is a Christmas story but there's not much Christmas in it. I get the Amish don't have big celebrations. They celebrate the day and that’s it so for them they wouldn't be doing all the Christmasy stuff in December. But, Holly does work for a secular pharmacist. It's not even until the middle of the book Christmas is even mentioned. Then it slowly makes its way through the book by Holly and her sister decorating the store. I don’t mind Christmas not being more prevalent I just think it's odd with the title being The Christmas Remedy. The only thing Christmas is it is set at Christmastime. Christmas really has nothing to do with the plot.
It reminded me of a Hallmark story. If you like those movies you will enjoy this book.
On page 123 the end of the chapter seems to be a major typo. The final paragraph is as follows "Despite herself, she could feel heat creep up her own cheeks. For both their sakes, he needed to connect with Ivy. he"
October 9, 2018
I always love a good, cozy Christmas story and I had hoped that this early-season read would be just the thing to kick off my Christmas reading this year. I have to say I was kinda disappointed in that regard. It just didn't feel like a Christmas story to me. The novel centers around a pharmacy crisis, and while the story was kinda interesting, it just wasn't enough.
I really liked the main character, Holly and I loved the relationship she shared with the pharmacist, Lyle. Though he was not a blood relative, he was like a father to her and I love that the book recognizes the validity and depth of relationships between people that aren't related by blood. Close relationships and family are not always blood.
All in all, this was a decent read with likable characters and an okay story. It did nothing to kick off my Christmas reading, but it was a quick little read that I enjoyed. Also, the cover is beautiful!
#PRHpartner
*I received a copy of this book free of charge from Waterbrook/Multnomah in exchange for my honest review.
I really liked the main character, Holly and I loved the relationship she shared with the pharmacist, Lyle. Though he was not a blood relative, he was like a father to her and I love that the book recognizes the validity and depth of relationships between people that aren't related by blood. Close relationships and family are not always blood.
All in all, this was a decent read with likable characters and an okay story. It did nothing to kick off my Christmas reading, but it was a quick little read that I enjoyed. Also, the cover is beautiful!
#PRHpartner
*I received a copy of this book free of charge from Waterbrook/Multnomah in exchange for my honest review.
October 14, 2018
Wonderful story by the team of Cindy Woodsmall and her daughter-in-law, Erin. I love the way the story is told from several viewpoints, the heroine/hero Holly and Joshua and that of the Englischer, Brandon as well. Woodsmall is an expert at portraying both the Englisher and Amish worlds. The three are thrown together after a crisis threatens the future of a small town pharmacy. Holly has a burden to open the eyes of her Amish community to the need for better health care. This burden throws her into a different role than one usually carried by a young Amish woman. This is a wonderful story of community and family relationships, mystery and romance. While this story ends at Christmas, much of the story takes place in the fall. Makes for perfect reading at any time of year.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from author/publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from author/publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.
August 21, 2018
Amish stories are very popular right now and when you throw in Christmas it makes it even better. This is a sweet story about Holly, a young Amish woman, that works for the local pharmacy. Her goal is to help the Amish people receive better health care. She works for an Englisher who also tried to help the Amish. Holly has resolved herself to the single life because she enjoys her work and would never want to have to stop. But there happens to be a certain chicken farmer that has caught her eye. This story has a little bit of everything. There's a mystery, a medical emergency, and some romance. And let's not forget there some Christmas here as well. If you enjoy reading stories about the Amish you will enjoy this one. Maybe these characters will be back for more of their stories.
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