The Amish Midwife's Hope

Hearts of Lancaster County #1

by Barbara Cameron

A midwife gets a second chance at having a family in this first installment of the new Amish romance series -- Hearts of Lancaster County -- from award-winning author Barbara Cameron.

Rebecca Zook has always dreamed of being a midwife. It's a bittersweet occupation for an Amish widow who didn't have children before she lost her true love. Now the only babies she holds are those who will belong to others. But Rebecca is afraid of risking her heart again, afraid that having had a miscarriage when she was married means she can't have more children.
Samuel Miller is a widower and single father new to Lancaster County. He's drawn to Rebecca but reluctant to date her when he finds out she's a midwife. Her occupation is a reminder that he lost his wife in childbirth. Yet their attraction to each other is strong and they begin dating. But when a terrible storm sweeps the town and Rebecca must help with a difficult birth, will it bring back memories they'd both rather forget?

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

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 1, 2020

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

CBD, CBA, and ECPA bestselling author of 24 books (including new series upcoming for Abingdon Press in 2011/2012) including fiction and non-fiction books for Abingdon Press, Thomas Nelson, Harlequin, and other publishers.

I sold three films to HBO/Cinemax and am the first winner of the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.

My two novellas won the 2nd and 3rd place in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest from the Faith, Love, and Hope chapter of RWA. Both were finalists for the novella category of the Carol Award of the American Christian Writers Award (ACFW).

Reviews

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife’s Hope by Barbara Cameron is the first novel in A Hearts of Lancaster County series. This is an inspiring novel. I thought the story was well-written with developed characters. Rebecca Zook and Samuel Miller were two people who had both lost their spouses in tragic circumstances. They meet and there is an instant spark of attraction between them. You could tell that they were excited at the prospect of a new relationship, but they were also scared. They wonder if it is the right time to move on and should they risk their heart again. It is also exciting because this relationship is different from the one they had with their first spouse. They did not grow up with each other, so they have so much to learn about each other. You could feel the characters emotions. Lizzie, Samuel’s daughter, was a delight. She was precocious and added humor to the story. I liked that we get to see what life is like for an Amish midwife. It is more than delivering healthy babies to happy parents. Emma Graber is someone that needs Rebecca’s help and guidance. I hope we get the rest of her story in a future book. The Amish Midwife’s Hope was an engaging story. I am looking forward to reading The Amish Baby Finds a Home when it comes out next year. The Amish Midwife’s Hope is a poignant novel about life, family, grief, friendship, love, and second chances.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barbara Cameron has released a delightful Amish book, The Amish Midwife's Hope. This is the first book in the Hearts of Lancaster series.
Widow Rebecca Zook is a midwife who loves her work in her Pennsylvania community.
She has been widowed for several years and still hurting after the death of her husband and unborn child.
New to the area Samuel Miller lives with his daughter and despite hurting from the loss of his wife several years ago there is a connection and between him and Rebecca.
It's beautiful to see hearts reawakening to love after being dormant , it's all in God's perfect timing as we trust him to bring us back to love and trusting.
Beautiful heart warming story you'll want to read more than once.
I really love Barbara Cameron's writing style, it's so realistic and
written with caring and compassion.
I recommend this author's books.

Pub Date 10 Nov 2020 by Forever.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife's Hope by Barbara Cameron is a touching Amish romance.

Rebecca Zook's career as a midwife helped her work through her grief when her husband died in a farming accident. She is dedicated to her patients so she is careful to monitor them for any problems that might arise during pregnancy or birth. Rebecca is a genuinely kind and compassionate woman who  is mostly successful in not dwelling on her fears and concerns.  She has not been ready for a new relationship despite introductions to available men.  Which explains why Rebecca is so surprised at her reaction when she meets newcomer Samuel Miller and his adorable six year old daughter Lizzie.

Samuel moved to Paradise, PA to escape the reminders of his beloved wife who passed away due to childbirth complications.  So far, the new beginning has been beneficial since his grief is finally abating. Samuel keeps busy with settling into his new home, caring for Lizzie and preparing the farm for winter.  Upon settling into the new community, Samuel is initially drawn to Rebecca. However, after learning she is a midwife, Samuel pulls away from her. When Lizzie brings him and Rebecca back together, will he allow his fears ruin their chance at love?

The Amish Midwife's Hope is an sweet romance with a delightful cast of characters and engaging storyline. Rebecca and Samuel are an appealing couple whose relationship is an absolute delight to watch unfold. Lizzie is an little charmer who is impossible not to love. With a late in the story conflict to resolve, Barbara Cameron brings this heartwarming romance to a gratifying conclusion. Fans of the genre are going to love this first installment in the Hearts of Lancaster County series.

[Jaime Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the perfect start to my 2021 reading. A sweet story, lovable characters and a happy ending. Everything was fairly predictable, but sometimes the comfort of knowing what’s going to happen is exactly what I need in a book.

[Annette]

This novel tugged at my heart. Both characters were coming from dealing with grief and trying to find a new outlook on life. I hope that the next book in the series is just as well written. I enjoy cheering on my 'friends', as they travel life.

[Chloe (Always Booked) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This was a really sweet, albeit basic, Amish romance. Rebecca is a widowed midwife who gives her all to the mamas she serves. Sam is a single dad who has also lost his spouse. Sam and his daughter offer to give Rebecca a ride home one night and theres an attraction, but this is definitely a chaste courtship that starts in friendship. I think thats why I love Amish fiction-- its very wholesome and has an inherent sweetness. This is very predictable and doesn't offer too much beyond your basic storyline, but it was still a nice writing style and reading experience.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife's Hope by Barbara Cameron
(Hearts of Lancaster County, 1) November 10, 2020
A midwife and single father have a second chance at the family they've always dreamed of in this heartwarming Amish romance from award-winning author Barbara Cameron.
Widow Rebecca Zook adores her work delivering bopplin in her close-knit Amish community, but the young midwife secretly wonders if she'll ever find love again or have a family of her own. When she meets handsome newcomer Samuel Miller, her connection with the widowed single father is immediate-Rebecca even bonds with his sweet little girl. It feels like a perfect match, yet Samuel seems hesitant . . .
In Paradise, Lancaster County, Samuel hoped to find the fresh start he and his dochder need . . . and perhaps a second chance for love. He never imagined he'd discover both so quickly and in one lovely, kind woman. But as Samuel falls for Rebecca, he worries that her job will only remind him of his past heartaches. Rebecca isn't willing to sacrifice her beloved calling, but she is ready to embrace the future . . . if only Samuel can open his heart once more.
This is Rebecca Zook and Samuel Miller's story.
Rebecca Zook held the squirming boppli in her arms and decided nothing could possibly be better than being a midwife and helping to bring new life into the world.
She wrapped a blanket around the boppli and gently placed him in his mudder’s arms. “You have a beautiful sohn.”
“Look at him, David,” Lovina whispered as she ran a finger down her kind’s cheek. “So tiny. So perfect.”
Turning, she stared up at Samuel Miller. Then she glanced toward the back of the buggy where his six-year-old dochder, Lizzie, watched her with an expression that was too serious for a kind.
“Nee, danki,” she said. “I’m fine.” “It’s going to rain.”
“I should make it home before then.” But just as she said it, a large, cold drop of water hit her face.
I highly recommend reading.
The Amish Midwife's Hope by Barbara Cameron is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Barbara Cameron
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved loved this book because the main theme of this book is Hope. Even after all that has happened in Rebecca's life the Lord still has a plan for her. I love that God isn't done with us even if we have lost loved ones or have gone our wayward ways. He loves us no matter what! This is what I love about Amish novels. They offer hope at the end of a long dark tunnel no matter what situation you may find yourself in.
I felt Rebecca's pain. Or at least some of it. It's never easy even when you have your work to help you through it or other people in the community to help with your needs. Sometimes, memories come back to haunt you when you least expect it. It happens to me from time to time. I'll be doing something and then bam! They come from out of nowhere! Ever happened to you?
In many ways the simplicity of Amish life fascinates me. Like how they help one another and the food especially! I believe I found myself drooling at every meal Rebecca and Samuel had. Some of the meals are my most favorite! The Amish are great cooks!
In my honest opinion Lizzie and Josh stole the show so to speak. It seems like the children are the ones who forgive the easiest and they are the ones who grieve the hardest in their own way. It's never easy to understand why God does what He does or why certain person were taken. Only God knows those things.
I loved how the little boy worried about his mom Hannah. My heart went out to him and I sighed with relief when all was well.
I'm going to end the review here. I don't want to spoil the book for you but I will say that I finished well after midnight. It was so good!
When Cameron comes out with a story which isn't often, you know you're going to get an awesome read! Her books never disappoints me either. More please!
Wish I could give this book more than 5 stars. It certainly deserves it.
The cover is beautiful too! It makes you curious in what the character is thinking about as she's looking at the precious baby.
Highly recommend!
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own!
5 stars for sure!

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks go to the publisher and Net-Galley for the complimentary copy of The Amish Midwife’s Hope by Barbara Cameron for the purpose of reading and reviewing prior to publication. My opinions are my own, and no one has influenced them.

The Amish Midwife’s Hope is a heartwarming tale with engaging characters and an intriguing plot involving a widower, his young daughter, and the midwife, who is also widowed. I enjoyed the story because the writing is emotional, and character development is excellent.

Rebecca Zook’s character has all the qualities I enjoy most in Amish fiction. She’s hard working, caring and loves her family. She has been able to move past her loss and embrace her future. I became vested in her character from the start.

Samuel Miller is an interesting hero. There’s no doubt he loves Lizzie and had adapted to caring for her without much support from family. His grief though, has him afraid to move forward and find another wife as his faith dictates he do. My heart hurt for the troubled man throughout the story.

The romance is lovely with all the hallmarks of this genre. It centers on growing affection and friendship between the couple. Lizzie is an intricate part of their relationship and added greatly to the story. I truly wanted Rebecca and Samuel to work through their issues and find their happy ending.

If you enjoy Amish fiction with characters will touch your heart and a plot that has a great message, then you like The Amish Midwife’s Hope. This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Cameron, and I enjoyed it. Happy reading!

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

A poignant second chance romance centered around the challenge of trusting God's plans for your future.

It's been three years since I read a novel by Barbara Cameron for some unknown reason (too many books, too little time?) but I'm committed to seeing this series through now and am thrilled to be back on the Cameron bandwagon! Why?

Because...this author knows how to pen an emotional, character-driven story that tugs at my heart.

Because...second chance romance!!! As young as they are, both Rebecca and Samuel have experienced a whole lot of trauma. And, while they are both determined to look to the future, they also have residual hurts that makes it hard to trust in a happily-ever-after. Their internal battles are real and relatable and choked me up a time or two.

Because...Lizzie! A precocious bundle of childish innocence who brightens every scene she's in with her earnest, cheery outlook and enthusiasm for all things boppli! Like, why can't her daed get her one? And if there has to be a mam first, well, Rebecca would suit her just fine, please and thank you. :-)

Because...the midwifery angle. I've been hooked on midwife stories since watching the brilliant BBC drama Call the Midwife and I enjoyed the Amish perspective in this novel. Not nearly as graphic as the TV show but there's something about the sisterhood of woman travailing together to bring new life into the world that stirs something deep in my soul.

So, altogether, a fabulous, entrancing Amish Second Chance Romance!

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebecca is a widow and a midwife in her Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, community. Samuel is a widower with a young daughter, who has recently moved to Lancaster from Indiana after inheriting a farm. Both have been widowed for about two years and are open to the thought of marrying again.

This is a pretty formulaic book where boy meets girl, boy gets girl, boy dumps girl, boy gets girl back. Samuel has a problem with Rebecca's vocation because his wife and son died in childbirth. While it wasn't the midwife's fault his wife died, he still has a problem with midwives in general. The problem is that his daughter, Lizzie, falls in love with Rebecca, and as he gets to know Rebecca more, he falls in love too. But when his sister begins her labor in the midst of a snowstorm, he has incredible reservations about his sister's safety in Rebecca's hands.
Barbara Cameron has written a sweet book, but the formula makes the story a bit trite. It is a fast read, and the story lines are easy to follow. Three and a half stars--rounded up to four.

Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

To worry is arrogant.

Rebecca Zook the Amish Community midwife knows the pain of being a widow and losing a child. She loves bringing new life into the world and helping mothers know the joy set before them. Being a midwife, you must have wisdom and compassion and she fits the role to a t. When another widower Samuel moves to the community with his young daughter, they naturally come together. However, the pain of losing his wife to childbirth is to painful as his relationship with Rebecca reminds him of what he lost. It is his young daughter that reminds him of what is to gain.

This romance has many different stories that share worry doesn't solve anything and keeps us away from the good that God has for us. The characters of mothers in Rebecca's care added to her story. No two mothers and their circumstances are alike. Samuel's daughter Lizzie brought a ray of sunshine and honesty to the story as well. It's hard to pick one favorite in this community.

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

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife's Hope by Barbara Cameron is an amazing Christian fiction novel. I was amazed by the strength of the characters. They lost, grieved, and were struggling to move forward. Then, them meet each other and they feel a renewed energy flowing within themselves. But life has a few curveballs to throw. It will be up to them to figure out where they want to be and with whom they want to be with forever. Being alone isn't as joyful as being with someone they love. Love, faith, and second chances are the main themes of this beautifully told story. The characters were the average kind even among the Amish. They like the rest of us, struggle with life's daily issues. Losing a loved one is never an easy journey. Putting themselves back out there and risking the hurt that can come with it, made them stronger. I loved the cast and the emotional rollercoaster ride that Barbara Cameron wielded together. This novel will brought tears to my eyes-both the sad and happy tears.

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.

[Sherry Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young widow, Rebecca Zook, who is a midwife, wonders if she will ever find love again and have her own family.

Widower, Samuel Miller, who lost his wife and baby in childbirth, moves to Paradise, PA from Indiana after his uncle wills his farm to him. He is glad to make this move in hope that it will help him and his young daughter, Lizzie, to leave the sorrowful memories behind and start a new life.

When Samuel meets Rebecca, there is an instant connection, however, when he finds out that she is a midwife, all of his hopes and dreams seem to be dashed as her profession, which she dearly loves, brings back all the hurts and fears from losing his wife.

Will he be able to overcome these feelings and start a new life with Rebecca?

This is a very enjoyable, quick read. I highly recommend it.

I received a copy of this book from Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.

[C Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife's Hope is a new book by Barbara Cameron and will be published, November 10, 220. I was given an ARC by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) through Netgalley. I am not required to give a positive review.

This is a very good book. Barbara does a great job of sharing a great story in her first book in the Hearts of Lancaster County series.

Rebecca Zook is a midwife and widow in her Amish community. Samuel Miller has moved to her community and is a widowed single father. Rebecca being a midwife and Samuel losing his wife while trying to give birth to their second child, seems to be a real issue. Although Rebecca falls for Samuel's precious daughter, Rebecca's occupation seems to be a real stumbling block to any notion of them becoming a family.

Read this great start to a new series. In my opinion, it is a 5* addition to Barbara Cameron's growing collection of books.

[Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a light romance with a good story. It portrays well the emotions of people who have lost a pregnancy by miscarriage or who have lost a spouse by death.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife’s Hope set in Paradise, Pennsylvania, chronicles the lives of Amish midwife Rebecca Zook and Amish farmer Samuel Miller as they seek to overcome the tragic loss of their spouses, learn to let go of fear, and take a chance on love again. Ms. Cameron is a new author to me, and I like her style. Her characters are well-crafted and endearing. The children Lizzie and Jacob are delightful. The plot flows at a suitable pace with some unexpected twists. The faith element is thoughtfully infused into the narrative. The inclusion of the Amish recipes is a nice touch. I highly recommend this book especially to lovers of Amish fiction and look forward to the second book in the Hearts of Lancaster series.

I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is quite a heart touching story. Rebecca, as a widow, has suffered loss in her life, but she continues to work tirelessly in her profession as a midwife. She truly desires to help other women and her compassion shows through in everything she does. She and Samuel, a widower with a young daughter, are drawn to each other from the time they first meet. But Samuel has a difficult time excepting Rebecca’s work as a midwife, and decides to not pursue a relationship with her. However, Samuel’s young daughter, Lizzie, loves Rebecca, and becomes the key to Samuel taking another look at their relationship. This wonderful story follows a theme of faith, hope, and love that will warm your heart and keep you turning pages as you follow Samuel and Rebecca’s story.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Irene S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amish widower Samuel Miller and his young daughter move to Pennsylvania for a fresh start after losing his wife and baby in childbirth. Samuel is drawn to widow Rebecca Zook, but pulls away when he learns that Rebecca is a midwife. His precocious daughter Lizzie is also drawn to Rebecca and wants Rebecca as her mother. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgallery. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. Rebecca is a strong resilient woman with a lot of common sense. It was interesting to experience a little of her life as an Amish midwife. Lizzie is darling. I love reading about her attempts to push Samuel into Rebecca's path. Samuel is still suffering from his loss. This is a pleasant and sweet Amish romance that I enjoyed reading.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in a brand new series by Barbara Cameron. Rebecca is a widow in her community in Lancaster County, Pa. She was married but she lost her husband while he was working the farm. Rebecca isn't the only one in the community who has lost a spouse. New comer Samuel also lost his spouse. Samuel moved to to Lancaster County from Indiana along with his daughter. Will things happen between Samuel and Rebecca where they could become a couple? You will need to read the book to find out.

I enjoyed reading this book. It was very well written and had wonderful characters. I didn't want to put it down. It held my attention from beginning to end. I love when a book does that.

I received a copy from Forever(Grand Central Publishing). All opinions are my own.

[Kristina Kohler]

The Amish Midwife's Hope
This book is about loss, love, family, friendship, life.
Samuel, is a widow with a little girl name Lizzie who you can not resist.
Rebecca also a widow and a Midwife..
This story really tug at my heart strings.
It is about second chances, learning to move forward after a loss.

I was given e-book from Net galley
This is my own personal opinions from reading the book..
Thank you Barbara for writing a amazing book love it.
I recommend this book ladies




..

[CR · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ended up loving this one! It was a great story about two people that both lost their loves to only find love again. I felt that these two characters were developed very well and that you just can't help but feel for them. The setting of the Amish community worked very well for this story and I think the author did well with it. This second chance romance was one of a kind. I usually say that these are all the same but this one really stands alone. If you are looking for a new story to fall in love with I would check this one out.



Go Into This One Knowing: Loss of Spouse

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in Cameron's new series Hearts of Lancaster County. The 2nd book is scheduled to come out in Aug 2021.

Rebecca Zook and Samuel have both lost their spouse. Rebecca is a midwife, and that's how Samuel lost his first wife-- in childbirth. As they fall in love with each other, with the help of Samuel's matchmaking daughter, Lizzie, can Samuel learn to put his faith back in God again, who is sovereign, even in the birth process?

I found this to be a delightful story and was sad to see it end.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife's Hope is a good story that is clean and sweet. Rebecca is a widow whose late husband died working their farm. They didn't really know how he died. Samuel and his daughter moved to their community after his uncle died and left him the farm. His wife died while giving birth. So when he meets Rebecca, even though he really likes her, since she's a midwife, it disturbs him and brings back memories of his late wife's death. Will things work out between them?

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Amish Midwife's Hope, we find the lives of Rebecca and Samuel as they unexpectedly find each other after both loosing their spouse. The story is full of hope and coming to terms with your grief. The book kept me engaged and I quickly finished it because I couldn't put it down. A must read!

I received an advance copy from Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was great! Rebecca and Samuel had the sweetest chemistry. Samuel’s daughter, Lizzie, was an adorable handful and quite the matchmaker! I really enjoyed this one! I wasn’t crazy about the plot twist and then the abrupt ending! The twist is resolved but I wanted a touch more from the ending! Otherwise, a charming read.


*I received a finished copy from Read Forever Publishing in exchange for a review.*

[Ash Luna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Amish Midwife's Hope is a great wholesome read. Like any other Amish romance read I like when it has a HEA ending and makes me have strong faith even more than I already do. This was just that it was a great book.

[Robin Dix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much, I didn’t want it to end! I hope there’s a sequel in the works. I fell in love with Lizzie. Rebecca and Samuel had some tough memories to deal with while trying to decide if they were meant to be together. It’s a winner!!

[Karen Holman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This Amish story by Barbara Cameron is the beginning of a new series. The creative characters, Pennsylvania setting, and an ending that hints of more to follow. As with most of the Amish stories it has the same type of story line but an enjoyable tale. copy right 2020 322 pages and recipes

[melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the story between Rebecca and Samuel and Lizzie. I loved the story bout second chances.
some sad and heart warming moment's! I can not wait to read more from Barbara Cameron.