His Unexpected Amish Twins

Unexpected Amish Blessings #1

by Rachel J. Good

When Micah Miller’s brother and sister-in-law are killed in a buggy accident, he’s devastated. But he fulfills the promise he made when their twins were born seven years earlier: to raise Abby and Isaac should tragedy strike. Still, coping with the children’s grief as well as his own, requires extra support. Micah takes them to a counselor who recommends animal therapy. He’s surprised to find an Amish farm that offers just that . . .

Hope Graber had to find a way to save the family farm after her daed’s health forced him to stop breeding horses. Providing animal therapy proved to be the answer—thanks to the help of expert trainer Logan Russell. Together, they not only pay the bills, they make positive changes in children’s lives. Hope loves working with each child, but she takes a special interest in the Miller twins. She even makes Micah smile again—and he does the same for her. In fact, as Micah emerges from his depression, he longs to make them one happy family. But will Hope’s debt to her Englisch trainer, and their close partnership, stand in the way?

Genres: Amish, Christian, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Ebooks

345 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2020

Reviews

[Natalia R · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Micah Miller's brother and sister-in-law are killed in a buggy accident, he's devastated. Now he must learn to be a parent to his niece and nephew while coping with his and their grief.

Hope Graber is struggling to deal with her father's gambling problem while trying to open her horse therapy business. When she comes across a devastating buggy accident, she accompanies the two children to the hospital and stays with them until their uncle Micah arrives. Hope immediately forms a bond with the grieving family and does everything she can to help and support them.

His Unexpected Amish Twins by Rachel J. Good is a beautifully written and heartwarming story of love, compassion, healing, and forgiveness. The characters are wonderful and well-developed. The author provides a realistic description of a grieving family trying to heal after a tragedy. Hope was a lovable and kindhearted character. It was very easy to root for her as she tried to make her business a success and struggled to cope with a family secret. I really enjoyed learning about her horse therapy business and all of its benefits. Micah's character was easy to like. I rooted for him as he tried to be the best parent he could be for his niece and nephew, and as he slowly overcame his fear of horses. The romance between them progressed at a good pace and didn't feel rushed which suited the story. This is an inspirational Amish story that will tug at your heartstrings. I look forward to the second book.

I received an ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

On her way back from a visit to her friend Priscilla, Hope Grabner comes across an accident between an Amish buggy and a car. In this accident Micah Miller’s older brother Ben and his wife Anna are killed? Their twins Chloe and Jabin survive. Hope stays at the scene of the accident and then at the hospital to comfort Chloe and Jabin.
Micah struggles to deal with his own grief and that of the two children he has suddenly become sole parent to. He is struck by the caring, compassionate nature of Hope. What he does not know is the shame and family secret Hope carries.
Attempting to rectify money issues and help children Hope starts up a horse therapy business. Her assistant is Logan, a horse therapist. Hope believes horse therapy can help the two grieving children, even if Chloe claims she no longer believes God answers prayer. Despite his own fear of horses, as a result of a dramatic, childhood incident, Micah agrees for the twins to give it a try.
Despite the mutual attraction Hope and Micah seem destined for it to go no further. Not only are their views on horses too far apart but Hope has decided never to marry.
This delightful Amish story checked a lot of emotional boxes. Hope is such a generous caring person and Micah is lovely. Very easy to want the best for them. Women, in particular Sylvia and her daughter Susie seem determined to look after Micah whether he wants the attention or not. But Micah’s focus is elsewhere. Chloe and Jabin both react differently in their grief after the death of their parents. It is easy to sympathise with them. Hope’s father, Isaac,is a complex chapter battling his own issues.
This story got me in from the outset and never let me go. I have not read anything by this author before but would be definitely keen to read more.
As it is set in an Amish community there is a lot of talk about trusting God and of prayer. It all is exactly in keeping with the lifestyle and ethos of the characters. A beautiful book to read, I heartily recommend it.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best Amish romance books I have had the pleasure of winning and reading.
Made me cry, made me cry more, gave me hope, gave me cheer and made me cry with joy!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Good never fails to deliver a compelling, soul-searching Amish novel. “His Unexpected Amish Twins” has become my new favorite, and admittedly part of the reason I chose to read it is because it had twins in the title; twins have always fascinated me, and I always wanted to be one. Of course, being familiar with the author’s works, I also knew that it would be a good read, and I was not disappointed!

This novel provides ample indications of how God works out so-called coincidences, and how He makes good out of even the most devastating of circumstances. Hope Graber just happens to stumble upon a collision between an Englischer car and an Amish buggy, and her actions have lasting repercussions, both for her and for her father and her loved ones. This brings up another aspect of Amish life that I hadn’t really considered before, the tip for being gracious and kind regardless of circumstances or personal feelings for those, even among the Amish themselves. The Amish struggle with temptation is ultimately no different than ours.

I love the use of hippotherapy in this story, and it fits into the plot and direction of the novel so well. Both horses and dogs can help people heal, as can other animals, and I am delighted to read about horse therapy and find it explored in a novel, particularly an Amish novel. Not only that, but the fact that adults and children both can benefit from equine therapy. It demonstrates the versatility of equines and how important they are to both Amish and English alike.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Micah Miller is devastated by the loss of his brother and sister-in-law when they were killed in a buggy accident. He had no problem taking on the responsibility for caring for the couple's twin children. Despite the pain Micah is feeling at the loss, his love for the children pairs well with the duty before him.

Hope Graber has taken a chance with her family's farm. Her father has fallen ill and in order to keep things going, Hope goes into business with an English man, Logan Russell, and the two create an animal therapy business. Micah has been helping at the farm, and it does not take long for Hope to see a deep need in the children and they then began to spend more time at the farm. And, by extension, so does Micah.

However, Micah has deep seated depression and a secret fear he has never shared. Little did he expect that Hope's business would be of help to him as much as it has helped the children. Along the way, feelings are being cultivated between Micah and Hope, but there is something - or someone - that could get in the way of that.

I loved this book because it touched on so many issues: loss, death, grief, addiction and attraction. All of these things blended together to create an absolutely lovely story. I shed many a tear while reading this book, but as always with Rachel J. Good's sweet Amish books, was rewarded with a touching conclusion. I look forward to the next two books in the series, His Pretend Amish Bride (which I grabbed on NetGalley the moment it became available) and His Accidental Amish Family.

If you enjoy wonderful Amish stories that always have a strong family vibe, then I encourage you to pick up this book, as well as her previous series, Love and Promises.

Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Unexpected Amish Twins is a very emotional story written by Rachel Good. This story starts out with a devastating accident that will bring you to tears and tug at your heartstrings. I could not stop reading this book for so many reasons. This story is filled with tragedy, compassion, love, faith, and forgiveness. There is also two incredible secrets that play out throughout the story. The characters are well developed and make this story come to life.

Hope is a very strong, sensitive, loving, and forgiving young Amish woman who is struggling to deal with the secret within her family while opening her new horse therapy business. Hope longs for marriage and children of her own but doesn't see that in her future. Micah is a strong faith basedyoung Amish man who carries a secret that he never plans to reveal. The twins, Chloe and Jabin, are as different as night and day but because of these differences the story is never without excitement.

As the story opens Hope has come upon a devastating buggy accident and her mothering skills kick in. When she accompanies the twins to the hospital she has no idea what is in store for her future. Micah receives the heartbreaking phone call about the accident and travels to be with the twins who are his neice and nephew and he as well has no idea what the future holds for him. This is where the story takes on such emotion and compassion it is difficult to stop reading.

Healing comes in many forms throughout this story, forgiveness plays a huge role as well. When secrets get revealed Hope and Micah find their way to deal with the children and the secrets. The author has does an amazing job telling this incredible story for readers of the Amish genre.

I did accept an advance copy of this story thru the author and Netgalley but was not approacjed to post a favorable response just an honest one. All statements and opinions are strictly my own. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Rachel Good on once again writing such an inspiring story for readers of all genre. I will be anticipating her next release.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was quite a page turner! The author did a great job of capturing the emotions that all of the main characters were experiencing. The twins were very believable in how they processed losing their parents in a buggy crash. I appreciated that their emotional recovery was different for each twin, based on what they had experienced and also on their personalities.

I really liked the way the attraction and chemistry developed between Micah and Hope. Both of these characters were such nice people and were kind to others. They both had issues from their pasts to deal with, which added some drama to the story, as well.

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story will tug at readers’ heartstrings with the tragic buggy accident that Hope came upon. Hope was a compassionate, sensitive and caring young lady who kept her family secret hidden from the community. Comforting young Chloe came naturally to her until responders arrived. She was the Good Samaritan to Chloe and Jabin as she stayed with them at the hospital until a relative arrived.

Micah was distraught and fighting past fears as he entered their hospital room. Hope’s eyes of comfort and strength drew Hope to him. The emotional roller coaster of the twins was realistic along with what Micah and Hope held inside about their past. Hope’s new business was unusual with horse therapy but she knew it would be beneficial to the twins. The more Micah and Hope saw each other the stronger the pull. The unforeseen twists and turns in the story brought true to life panic in situations along with recognizing the need to confront buried fears and secrets. Isaac Graber, Hope’s dad, enjoyed the twins and their presence gave way to his character to change with honesty and asking forgiveness from Hope and others.

His Unexpected Amish Twins is a story of hope, trust, healing, forgiveness, God’s unconditional love and new beginnings for multiple characters. Amish fans will enjoy book one in Good’s new series, Unexpected Amish Blessings. I look forward to reading book two, His Pretend Amish Bride.

Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books and the author for an advance ARC digital copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a positive review but have shared my own opinion.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

God knew what he was doing when he put Hope Graber at the scene of a horrible fatal accident. A woman who has a heart to help children, she has a gift of helping those in need succeed, and she helps these kids with their grief.
Enter the uncle of these orphans, he made a commitment to take care of these seven year old twins, if the unthinkable happened.
We are also given mothers who throw their daughters at the single bachelor, a man who is damaging his family with his vice, and also Amish man afraid of horses.
As we journey in the Amish community, you will see God at work in their lives, and we witness healing, and the bloom of love.

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Unexpected Amish Blessings series. Love that theme for a series because so often blessings come out of the unexpected as in the tragic circumstances that propel Micah Miller and Hope Graber into each others lives.

Good really messed with my emotions in this complex multi-layered story. There's depth in character and plot and the way she breathes life into a fictional community is sheer magic. I literally felt my way through to the end -- alternately fuming / laughing / swooning my way to that last page. Such brilliant storytelling! I love when a story completely consumes me like this one did. And my critter lovin' self found the horse therapy aspect so interesting. An unusual business venture for an Amish enterprise which made it all the more intriguing.

And --- hooray -- since I was late starting in on this series, the second book, His Pretend Amish Bride is already out so I get to dive back into more unexpected blessing goodness asap!

[Carrie Tripp · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts
Suggested Beverage Pairing: Homemade Lemonade
Characterization
The heroine is Hope Graber. Hope is a young woman doing many things which aren’t necessarily typical for a single Amish woman. She takes care of the home she and her daed live in, runs the household finances, and is starting a therapy business with an Englischer. While Hope’s responsibilities seem outside the norm for her religion, they are inline with the life situations she has been born into. It is not surprising in the least that Hope immediately gets involved with Micah Miller and his twin niece and nephew. She is a giver, through and through. Hope must face the reality that she will have to share her familial burden with someone if she is ever to marry. While she would do anything to help someone, she is unwilling to allow someone else to carry part of her load.

Micah Miller finds himself a father to his twin niece and nephew after a tragic accident. Due to a tragic accident in his own past and the recent family tragic accident, Micah has some fears that are uncommon to Amish men. His fears do nothing to deter him from providing the best life he can for his niece and nephew. However, they do put a damper on the possibility of a relationship with Hope. Micah knows Hope is what he and the twins need, but can his fear and her business ever align?

The Plot
I rate books based on their ability to make me cry or make me laugh out loud. Both of those things typically rate a book at 5 stars. His Unexpected Amish Twins was a sweet read that did not cause me to do either of those things. But I’m still going to rate it a 5 star read.

His Unexpected Amish Twins deals with a very tragic accident with a buggy and a drunk driver. Our local community had a fatal accident last summer with a Mennonite buggy and a young vehicle driver. It very much impacted our entire community. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to hold my emotions in check for this book. However, author Rachel J. Good did an amazing job of telling the story without creating a dark and depressing setting.

The book blurb itself talks about Micah’s depression. I don’t think I would have characterized Micah as depressed in this book. Did he suffer anxiety? Absolutely. Saddened by loss of life? Yes. However I never felt he was depressed.

This book dealt with a variety of mental health concerns within a religious community which we don’t often hear of mental health issues. Mental health issues are not a respecter of persons. Religion does not exempt a person from fear, doubt, anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, or any other mental health concern. I truly appreciated that Ms. Good did not try to gloss over the concerns simply by presenting scripture. The characters in this book each needed healing through process, not platitudes.

The book talks about Jesus not wanting to go to the cross, but accepting the Father’s will. Within the context of the story, Ms. Good is telling the reader that when we don’t understand what God is doing in our life, we can ask and tell Him what we want. It isn’t wrong of a Christian to ask God why or to tell God what they’d prefer. Using Jesus asking for the cup to pass from Him, was a great way to emphasize this concept. We don’t always get an answer to the question, “Why do bad things happen to good people?”, but we do get to see how these things work out for good.

[Ruth Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

First of all, this is a clean, Christian-Amish book/romance. The tenets of the Christian faith were woven into this book, and there is nothing inappropriate. While I am not Amish, the book still speaks to all Christians and people who have suffered a loss, and I applaud the author for tackling a subject like this in the way she did.

I found myself sympathizing with the twins in this story. While the characters were not always the most intriguing for me personally, I cannot fault the way the issue of loss is handled in all its many facets. Furthermore, I enjoyed the inclusion if special needs children in an Amish book. I do not remember ever reading this genre and having this situation mentioned.

The biggest issue I had with the book was truly infinitesimal. This seemed a bit mundane and typical within this genre. While a couple of different issues were raised, it would have been nice to see a bit more spiciness and unusual elements in the book and developed. However, should the author choose to write a sequel to this book, I believe she will have a solid basis with which to write a more engrossing tale. The characters are strong and interesting.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet story about trusting God

My rating is 4.5 stars

Micah had a phobia of horses. Considering he was an Amish man, it caused him some very awkward moments even with his father attempting to shield him from it. Despite his insecurities and feeling that he never measured up to his brother's worth, he never hesitated to step up and take over the care of his seven-year-old niece and nephew and to love them as if they were his own. I enjoyed watching him discover his own value and overcome his fears.

Hope had determined that her father's problem was bad enough that she would never be able to marry. She would never dream of saddling a man with a father-in-law like him! When Hope came across the buggy accident that took the life of Micah's brother and his wife, leaving the twins injured and orphaned, she didn't think twice about accompanying them to the hospital and staying with them until their oenkle arrived - despite him being over five hours away!

I loved Hope's gentle kindness. She was more concerned for others and gave sacrificially. She was also patient and unselfish. She never berated her father, even when his actions hurt her so much!

I appreciated getting a more in-depth look at hippotherapy than I had previously and the additional insights about Amish life that were gently sprinkled throughout the story.

His Unexpected Amish Twins is a sweet story of faith and overcoming fears. If you enjoy Christian romance, you will want to be sure to read it.

Read my full review at Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

His unexpected Amish Twins

In His unexpected Amish Twins Micah receives an phone that his brother and his wife was killed in an accident. Micah is needed to come care for the twins. Before he gets to the hospital Hope is staying with them.

Also in His unexpected Amish Twins Hope has a horse therapy business. It helps the children a lot. Micah is scare of horses though. Will he be able to overcome his fear? Hope has a lot to deal with her dad also. I loved Hope’s character so much. She was so patient with her father and the children.

This is one of the best books I have read recently. I always enjoy books with children in it. Having twins makes it even better. Chloe and Jabin were different in many ways. I loved how the author wrote it that way.

This book kept my attention from the first page to the last page. It as so refreshing to read a book that I didn’t want to put down.

I received an advanced copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.

[Carolyn Vandine West · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2if we could give halves.
When a buggy accident kills the parents of twins Chloe and Jabin, uncle Micah enters their life permanently. Hope, a bystander at the accident scene stays with them at the hospital until Micah arrives. Although the twins were thrown from the buggy and have minor injuries, their mental trauma takes longer to heal. Unknown to Hope, as a child Micah has been kicked by a horse and severely injured. He had stayed in this same hospital alone before his family was able to come to him.
Micah was grateful that Hope was able to comfort the twins while he was traveling to be with them. After discharge from the hospital, Jabin was very withdrawn.
Hope has a horse therapy business that she offered to let the children take a few lessons on help with their trauma.
As a result Micah and Hope began spending more time together. I really enjoyed this sweet story. There were many side stories but not enough to make it confusing and a great ending.
If you like Amish stories I’m sure you will enjoy this one.
I received a free e-copy of this book from NetGalley. This did not effect my review.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written story of tragedy and faith, His Unexpected Amish Twins tells a story of Hope, a girl that happens upon a tragic buggy and car accident. The two adults are dead, bur the two twin children, survive. She doesn't know this family, but feels like she should go with them to the hospital so they won't be afraid. She contacts the children's remaining family and this is how she meets their handsome and single uncle, Micah. It's a well written story that I enjoyed reading, ill enjoy reading again. Great ending!

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.Hope...Her name alone represents  comfort. She is attempting to start a business that will give hope to others.  She tries to help her father even when his behavior stands in the way of making her dreams come true. But she is really put to the test when she meets two small children suffering from a major loss. 


We all need a Hope in our lives.  She is a good and loyal friend.  Micah has never met anyone like her.  He doesn't have time to court anyone.  He has just become guardian of his brother's children.  What was he going to do?  He was scared of this responsibility.  He needed to conquer his fears to live the life he dreamed of.


I loved the book.  At times, I admit it made me cry.  It demonstrates GOD's love for us.



I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit to review.

Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”About the Book

Book:  His Unexpected Amish Twins

Author: Rachel J. Good

Genre:  Amish Romance

Release Date: February 28, 2020

When Micah Miller’s brother and sister-in-law are killed in a buggy accident, he’s devastated, but he fulfills a promise to raise their seven-year-old twins, Abby and Isaac. While struggling to deal with the twins’ grief and Abby’s anger toward God, he discovers an Amish farm offering horse therapy for grief. And he’s thrilled to find the owner cares about and prays for the twins.

Hope Graber had to find a way to save the family farm after her daed’s unwise decisions. Even selling off many of the horses didn’t cover all the bills. After deciding to use the remaining horses for animal therapy, she brings on Logan Russell, an experienced trainer, to help her. Together they not only start paying off the debts, but they also make positive changes in children’s lives.

Hope loves helping each child, but she takes a special interest in the twins and determines to help them heal both emotionally and spiritually. As she gently guides Abby back to God and makes the little girl smile again, Hope also makes Micah’s life brighter. As he emerges from his depression, he longs to make them one happy family, but only God can overcome the many obstacles in their path.


Click here for your copy!



About the Author

USA Today bestselling author RACHEL J. GOOD writes life-changing, heart-tugging novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. She grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for her Amish novels. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farm and attending family events.

Rachel is the author of several Amish series in print or forthcoming – the bestselling Love & Promises, Sisters & Friends, Unexpected Amish Blessings, Surprised by Love (2021), and two books in Hearts of Amish Country – as well as the Amish Quilts Coloring Books. In addition, she has stories in many anthologies, including Love’s Thankful Heart,Love’s Christmas Blessings,Plain Everyday Heroes, Love’s Truest Hope,and the forthcoming Amish Christmas Twins (Fall 2020) with Shelley Shepard Gray and Loree Lough.


More from Rachel

Phobias and Faith


“Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14: 27b KJV)

In every book I write, I like the hero and heroine to experience character growth. I think it’s important that they change and become different. So, in His Unexpected Amish Twins, Micah faces several life-changing events. First, his life is turned upside-down when he becomes the guardian of his niece and nephew, seven-year-old twins. Although he loves the children dearly, as a young, single man, he isn’t quite ready to handle his lively, rebellious niece and his silent, withdrawn nephew, especially not when he’s grieving himself.

But with the help of horse therapist, Hope Graber, Micah puts aside his own pain to concentrate on caring for the twins. But Micah is also hiding a deep-seated phobia.

As a child, he had a terrible experience, one that scarred him for life. One that still haunts him and terrorizes him. One that may destroy his future relationship with Hope.

Getting over fear is never easy, and Micah prays for strength. But it isn’t until he’s forced to make a choice – give in to his fear or save a life – does he push past that fear.

Like Micah does, we often go through life hiding our fears. We make excuses not to do something that frightens us. When a fear turns into a phobia, it can become paralyzing.

For me, public speaking was my greatest fear. I managed to avoid it until I was asked to do a simple two-minute introduction each month for the Christian Women’s Club. I didn’t have to answer right away. They asked me to pray about it, and let them know my answer in a few days.

If they’d asked for an answer right away, I would have made an excuse. I had four small children and an ill husband. But the truth was – I was scared. Not just scared, but petrified. Petrified about even standing in front of an audience.

When I discussed this opportunity with my father, he suggested God might be giving me a chance to get over my fear because He had something greater for me to do in the future. My first thought was that it had better not have anything to do with public speaking.

Dad encouraged me to take a speech class, so I signed up for one. Eight people attended this informal course in the teacher’s living room. The first night we had to give a two-sentence introduction of ourselves. We didn’t even have to stand up.

I went last. My turn came, and my mind went blank. I couldn’t even remember my name. With prompting, the teacher got me to stumble through my name and hometown.

Our assignment for the following week was to prepare a three-minute demonstration of one of our hobbies. We could use notes and props. I mumbled through the speech, rushed out the door to my car, and vomited in the street. Yes, I was that frightened by public speaking.

I told my father I planned to quit the class, but he encouraged me to continue. And several months later, I stood in front of the women’s club. My eyes blurred, and I couldn’t see the people in front of me. I hurried through my memorized two-minute introduction clutching my note cards in case I forgot the words. I had no idea what I said, but several people mentioned that they liked it. And I went on to do it every month for two years.

And my father was right. God did train me for a future job. Wouldn’t Dad be surprised to know that, as an author, I speak in front of audiences around the country? He died before my first book was published, but I suspect he’s up in heaven cheering me on. And I could never have done it without God’s help.

Micah and I both had to learn to trust God’s promise: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1: 9 NIV)

Blog Stops

For the Love of Literature, March 4

Maureen’s Musings, March 5

The Avid Reader, March 5

Through the Lens of Scripture, March 6

Texas Book-aholic, March 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 7

For Him and My Family, March 8

janicesbookreviews, March 8

Inklings and notions, March 9

deb’s Book Review, March 9

Blossoms and Blessings, March 10

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 11

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 11

Vicky Sluiter, March 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 13

Splashes of Joy, March 14

Bigreadersite, March 14

Artistic Nobody, March 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blogging With Carol, March 16

Genesis 5020, March 16

EmpowerMoms, March 17

My Devotional Thoughts, March 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize package of an autographed copy of the book and $25 VISA gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f72a/his-u...

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

During a tragedy, one must come to their own understanding of God. Who is this loving God?


Hope Graber is trying to make a go of her own business of horse therapy. She lives with her widowed father who is struggling with his own demons. Because of her family situation, she is focused on her new business endeavor. She works with an Englisher and has the support of her best friend that is one of the few that knows the obstacles that she must overcome. Hope's life is changed when she witness a buggy accident that killed the parents of twins Chloe and Jabin Miller. She offers her help to the responders and is placed in the care of Chloe and Jabin Miller until family can be informed. She is taken with the twins and the trauma they had witnessed. She knows their recovery will not only be physical but emotional. When their uncle Micah arrives at the hospital, she is drawn into the Miller family.

This Amish Romance deals with tragedy and faith and overcoming fears. Micah and Hope are not attracted to each other physically but emotionally. They both are dealing with fears that they help each other face together. The horse therapy plays a key role in these fears and in the redemption of those fears. The ironies of horse therapy is spiritual in nature with building trust and communicating. The romance only added to a good thing. I was smiling and cheering these two families. Families that are not perfect but perfectly loved by the Father.

A special thank you to Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Tambra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel J Good is one of my go to authors for Amish books. I love her books. This was a great new fresh fun story that I cant wait for the next book. Sort of sad but I mean as a story overall it was new .

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable sweet Amish story with all of the right feels.
I enjoyed this book very much because Amish fiction is my favorite genre.
I love Good's stories because they are full of hope, love and family.
I liked Micah right off. By the end of this story he became my hero. I thought he picked up his responsibilities well and I admired him for being so caring and kind.
Hope is a sweet lady as well. I loved her personality a lot especially because of her willingness to help others. To me that shows a lot about a person.
The two children won my heart instantly! Bless them.
I highly recommend this book of you love Amish stories.
My thanks to Netgalley and Zebra publishers for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own

[Connie Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just as Expected

Rachel J Good puts so much joy in her writing! This is a story of loss, life, faith, and joy! Hope and Micah were brought together by a tragedy and God's love and trust showed them the way. What a wonderful story.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hope Graber is trying to start a horse therapy business to help needy children and help the family finances since her widowed dad can’t work anymore. When she comes upon a tragic buggy accident, her life abruptly changes as she gets involved with the injured twins. Micah Miller takes charge of his young niece and nephew and ends up with his life entangled with Hope’s. This touching tale tugs at the heart because the characters and their struggles seem so real. It’s great to see how horses help children heal. The story offers a good example at taking things one step at a time. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm excited about this series based on the first book. I found this book provided a fresh approach to Amish fiction. It is a complex story of grief from three different points of view, addiction in an Amish world, fear from a man's point of view, and a strong Amish business owner in a business other than the typical culinary business.

My interest was riveted from the first page to the last. It is a clean romance with parts that are tissue worthy.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a very sweet and heartwarming look at loss and fear. It was very sad when the twins lost their parents in an accident. The stay at the hospital for them was hard but thanks to Hope she helped them feel a bit at ease. It was no accident that Hope was there to help when the accident happened. God already had a plan to help heal the twins and allow Hope to show them unconditional love.

I liked the introduction of Micah who are the twins’ uncle. He is not very confident about caring for the twins and the author does a great job showing the emotional struggles that they each have. The children go through some emotional times as they come to grips with their new lives. It is not easy to lose someone you love and the author illustrates the grief process very well.

It is a nice addition to the story when we find out about Hope’s business of horse therapy geared to those who are struggling with depression, autism, grief and other issues that disconnect them from people. I remember going to church with a young woman who did horse therapy for handicapped children. I went to visit her one day and cried the whole time I was there. The children were laughing, smiling and even embracing the horses as their walls started falling around their broken hearts. I’m glad the author included the horse therapy in the story because it is a valuable tool to reach those who are emotionally hurting.

Out of all the characters in the story, my favorite was Hope’s father. He has had a hard time trying to provide for his family and seemed to be a little distant from everyone. When he opens his heart to the twins, I could feel grace surround him. He felt needed again and his connection to the twins will have a lasting impact on his life. His past is interesting and I couldn’t wait to see if he would turn away from the temptation that almost cost him everything he owned.

The author writes a wonderful story that shared grief, hurt, depression forgiveness and a promise of healing hearts. I loved reading how God’s love shows mercy to all and delivers a hope for new beginnings. I liked that the author included Chloe being angry at God. I was angry at God last year when he didn’t heal my brother. I prayed for God to heal him and not take him away. But after a year I am finally able to understand that God healed my brother , just not the way I wanted. The twins being angry is a natural process of grief that Hope and Micah will have to help them get through.

The ending is beautiful and the author has enclosed a peek at the next book in the series. I can’t wait for it to come out.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Donna C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
His Unexpected Amish Twins is contemporary Amish fiction by Rachel J. Good. It is the first book in Unexpected Amish Blessing series. Hope is in the process of starting a business to help people both within her Amish community and Englisher. However she is facing financial ruin. Micah is thrust into parenthood when his brother and sister in law are killed.

What you might need to know:
In the opening of the book the twins lose their parents in a tragic buggy accident. The book deals with grief and fear.

What I think about this book:
I was partially skeptical about the book based on the title, however being a fan of Good I wanted to give it a try and I am SO glad I did. Good goes beyond the typical Amish fiction and tackles hard issues in her book. I loved Hope and how she wanted to use hippotherapy to help children. She was not your typical Amish woman, she was in charge of her family finances and was working a job that would be frowned upon by most Amish communities. This book broke all of the cliches that you often see! Jabin and Chloe were heartbreaking, however they also added so much to the book. The big surprise for me was Micah, I quickly came to love him and enjoy how Good used his character. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chloe and Jabin are the only survivors of an accident between a buggy and a car. The biggest injury for the young children was the loss of their parents.

Hope was running errands when she came upon the accident, she got someone to call 911 and stayed with the children all the way to the hospital, then borrowed a phone to call their next of kin, and then stayed until their Uncle Micah got to the hospital. The next morning she took some food to them for breakfast, and promised to come back later with dinner.

After the children are released from the hospital, Micah takes them back to his parents' home, but it doesn't work out well. During a consultation with his parents, he decides to take the children back to their home.

Rachel J Good is a talented Amish Fiction author and this book is a testament to her talent. She has woven in some modern day problems and mindsets for the characters to overcome. The resolution of these problems is not only believable, but also pretty spot on. Overall a really good, quick read. Four strong stars.

Kensington Books and NetGalley.com provided the copy for this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

After the hanging of her father for robbing a bank and killing several people in his path, Ruby McCoy finds out she inherited all of his blood money. Determined to help all who suffered at her father’s hands, Ruby hits the road to all of the towns her father left suffering. When she arrives in Fairplay and meets Rex Truett, feeling she didn’t expect surfaced. Can she come clean with the town cop?

I really enjoyed this sweet story. Ruby was so torn over her father’s life, and it was heartwarming to see her determination to help all that he had hurt, which was no easy task. Ruby was such a sweet character. But Ruby’s mom was a different story. She really got on my nerves because she could have cared less about her husband’s evils, as long as she could live her pampered life. I’m not sure I would have handled her as calm as Ruby did!

Loree Lough does a nice job of creating characters that develop well throughout the story. The scenes were very detailed, the plot interesting and intriguing. If you enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend this book for a few hours of entertainment and enjoyment. Even though I didn’t read the first two books in this series, it was still and ok book for a standalone!

I received this book from Celebration Lit Blog Tours to read and review. 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 55.

 

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Unexpected Amish Twins by Rachel J. Good has Holly Graber starting a horse therapy business in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She is on her way home when she encounters an accident between a buggy and a car. Hope rushes to offer aid to the little girl thrown from the buggy. She ends up staying by Chloe and her twin brother’s side until a relative arrives. Micah Miller hurries from New York to Lancaster to be with his brother’s children. Unfortunately, Micah’s brother, Ben and his wife did not survive the accident. Micah finds himself overwhelmed and is grateful when Hope offers assistance with the twins. Micah is unsure how to handle the children’s grief. Hope suggests they try hippotherapy which terrifies Micah. He was kicked by a horse as a child which has caused Micah to be dread being around a horse (which is difficult when your Amish). Horse therapy may be just what Micah and his new charges need plus it allows Micah and Hope to spend time together. His Unexpected Amish Twins is a poignant Amish story. I thought it was well-written with developed characters. The story deals with grief, fear, pride, forgiveness, healing and love. Micah has felt he was always in competition with his brother and he felt that he never did as well. Plus, Micah has a fear of horses. Hope has been responsible for her family’s financial matters since she turned eighteen. Her father, Isaac has a gambling problem which Hope has done her best to keep from others. To help provide them with an income and use the horses they own, Hope has been training in hippotherapy. Hope is a kind, compassionate woman. I liked learning about hippotherapy and its benefits. Hope is naïve, though, because she does not understand her father’s addiction to gambling (the lengths one will go to get the money they need). I did feel that the father needed additional counseling from a minister or church elder. The description of a grieving family was realistic. I could relate to their overwhelming loss. I felt bad for the children who lost both their parents. Micah was trying to do what is best for the kids, but as expected, he makes a few missteps along the way. It can be difficult to raise one child much less two who are as different as the twins. Chloe is energetic, outgoing while her brother is quiet and reserved. I was rooting for Micah to overcome his fear of horses as Hope worked with him. The romance progressed at just the right pace for this story. Isaac, Hope’s father, struggle was evident along with his feelings of regret. I appreciated the epilogue which provided a sweet ending to the book. His Unexpected Amish Twins is an emotional story that will tug on your heartstrings. I look forward to reading the next book in the Unexpected Amish Blessings series.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts on His Unexpected Amish Twins:
I love Amish fiction and this is not an exception. The storyline moves quickly and keeps you engaged. I loved the twins and their different personalities. The theme within of fear and overcoming it is a really good one that I can relate to.

Hope found the accident and stayed with young Abby all the way through the hospital ride and sitting with her until her Uncle arrived. She can’t imagine how much grief the poor child is going through so she does understand some as she lost her own mother.

Isaac was always the quieter of the twins but now he’s stoic. He doesn’t want to talk and he rarely even shows any emotion. His Uncle Micah isn’t sure how to deal with him and help him past his grief.

That’s when he finds out Hope(who he actually seems to like) runs a farm to help children work through their grief. The only problem is that it’s with equine therapy and he’s petrified of horses since he was in an accident and spent a long time in the hospital himself as a child.

Can Micah overcome his fear of horses in order to help his niece and nephew? What about Hope? Can she overcome her fear of trusting anyone after the betrayals from her father?

This is an awesome and amazing book that I loved. I read it straight through and couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend you get a copy and read it as well.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Unexpected Amish Twins by author Rachel J Good is a delightful Amish Christian Romance. This is book one in the author’s Unexpected Blessings Series, and it has started the series off with a fantastic book one. I loved this sweet book that was filled with emotions.

This is the story of Hope Graber, a single Amish woman. She is driving home and happens upon an accident involving an Amish buggy. Twin seven year old children are hurt, but their parents are immediately killed. Hope comforts the children and even accompanies them to the hospital.

Micah Miller is their uncle and rushes in from out of town to care for them. His parents are elderly and not up to travel. By the time he arrives the twins have formed a bond with Hope.

It is a story of beauty from ashes. The beginning is sad and heartbreaking. I was immediately invested in the lives of the two little ones that had lost so much. The book became a page turner. I couldn’t put it down as I wanted to see what would happen next.

The author has a wonderful style of writing. There were twists, turns, and surprises as I kept reading. I learned things, rode an emotional roller coaster, and cheered for the children. This was a beautiful book that captured me and refused to let me go until the end.

I highly recommend this sweet story. There are no group discussion questions in the back nor recipes. In my opinion, both of those would have added to the book. This can easily be read in one sitting if you put dinner in the crock pot that morning. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.