Lizzie's Heart

The Amish of Southern Maryland #5

by Susan Lantz Simpson

Fall in Southern Maryland’s Amish country is a time of fiery falling leaves, a bountiful harvest, and bracing, frost-touched days. It’s the perfect season for one irrepressible maidel to try an unexpected match . . .

Good-hearted and impulsive, twenty-year-old Lizzie Fisher has many chores—and secrets. She’s caring for kittens abandoned by their mother and practicing her drawing talent away from disapproving eyes. So the last thing she needs is someone like handsome Stephen Zimmerman constantly “helping” her out of trouble. But when she discovers they both have lovelorn siblings, she has an idea: why can’t she and Stephen bring his older brother and her older sister together? After all, how hard could matchmaking be?

Even though he’s the youngest son of an Old Order Mennonite family, Stephen is used to looking out for everyone else. Yet somehow the romantic schemes he and Lizzie cook up keep going awry—in ways that hint they may suit each other. But their deepening bond is both delightful and complicated. For bridging their differences will take bravery, compromise—and faith in their hopes and dreams . . .

Genres: Amish, Romance, Amish Fiction, Christian Fiction

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2020

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author Susan Lantz Simpson has been writing stories and poetry ever since she penned her first poem at the age of six. She has always loved the magic of words and how they can entertain and enlighten others. Her love of words and books led her to earn a degree in English/Education. She has taught students from Prekindergarten to high school and has also worked as an editor for the federal government. She also holds a degree in nursing and has worked in hospitals and in community health. She writes inspirational stories of love and faith and has published a middle-grade novel (Ginger and the Bully) in addition to her inspirational romances (Plainly Maryland Series and Southern Maryland Amish Romances Series). Her novella, The Christmas Fudge Miracle is included in the USA Today Bestseller Amish Christmas Miracles Collection. She was a finalist in the OCW Cascade fiction contest. She is a member of ACFW. She lives in Maryland and is the mother of two wonderful daughters. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, walking, and doing needlework.

Reviews

[Natalia R · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Lizzie's Heart by Susan Lantz Simpson is a heartwarming and inspirational Amish romance about family and God's perfect timing. Set during the fall time in Southern Maryland's Amish country, the story follows Lizzie Fisher, a lovely and kind-hearted Amish girl who loves animals and drawing, and Stephen Zimmerman, a Mennonite who meets Lizzie when he follows her into a burning building to rescue kittens. There's an immediate spark between the two, but they live in different communities and are doubtful that they'll ever see each other again. A few days later, Lizzie goes to a Mennonite woman's house to teach her how to weave and is surprised to see that the woman's son is none other than the handsome blue-eyed boy who helped her rescue her beloved kittens. During her visits to Stephen's house, their relationship grows and deepens. But will their different religious backgrounds prevent them from having a future together?

Susan Lantz Simpson is a wonderful storyteller. She knows how to keep the reader engaged and turning pages. The setting was beautiful and the cast of characters was well-developed. Lizzie was such a lovable character. You couldn't help but root for her and admire her determination to stay positive in negative situations. Her family experiences were relatable and realistic. The relationship between her and Stephen progressed at a good pace. I thought they were perfect for each other, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Mary was also a wonderful character and her friendship with Lizzie was very heartwarming. I loved learning some of the differences between the Amish and Mennonites. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read, and I will definitely be reading more books by this author.

Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really been enjoying this series set in Southern Maryland.
I lived in Maryland for nine years myself so this author's books have a place in my heart.
This is a sweet and charming Amish Inspirational novel. Though it's part of a series all can be read as stand alones with no problem.
The plot was well thought out and the characters are realistic and likable.
The book really made me happy to read it and I really felt like Lizzie would be a great friend to have.
I loved Lizzie's caring heart for animals, it made me so happy to see. I am the same way about animals.
I love the covers of this author's books as well, her books and covers are very appealing!
I can't wait to see what the author will come up with next as I've read all of her books and I just loved them. Do not miss this one!

Published May 26th 2020 by Zebra
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mindy Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Susan Lantz Simpson never disappoints when it comes to sweet Amish romance. Lizzie and Stephen live in different worlds, but their hearts and whit are clearly matched. These characters are so perfectly described. The twist and turns lead you in one direction, just as Simpson masterfully lured her main characters, and suddenly happy ever after shifts elsewhere. I love learning about the Amish of Maryland, as Simpson often writes, and the art of weaving was very interesting to learn more about. This is a story of God's timing, sibling love at its best, and how one too many four-legged friends can bring hearts together. I sure hope there is a book two. Seth needs a story..

[melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really adored this book.
I was given the copy from Susan.
I really loved all the character's, but lizzie was my favorite. I liked the same animal's as she did. I loved the relationship between Lizzie and Stephen. some moment's made me giggled and smiled. I honestly think we can hear more about the sister. I hope so.
I also think Lizzie and Stephen is different names in the Amish and Mennonites stories.I don't hear often. I think it's nice to read about both of Amish and Mennonites. this is my second favorite book of the year. I loved the setting, I loved the cover and the title fit the story. can't wait to read more from susan.
I have read all her book's now.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A chance encounter with a strange, a plain gentlemen, has a life changing effect on Lizzie Zimmerman. Of course this encounter leads to a incident that is almost life ending for the both of them, and it is repeated again in this book
If you have a love of animals, this one is going to make you smile, and while others in Lizzie's family do not agree with her, I enjoyed the family dynamics.
You feel sorry for Lizzie's sister Frannie, but when the facts come out you wonder why she is so prickly, but keep reading!
We get a glimpse into two different plain families, and I'll have to admit there was one that I would prefer to live in, but you will have to decide for yourself!
Come and get lost in this sweet Amish read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is sweetest story I ever read.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lizzie's Heart is the fifth remarkable story written by Susan Lantz Simpson in her series The Amish of Southern Maryland. I enjoyed the journey the author took me on in this story. I was hooked from the first few pages. The characters were perfect and very likeable. The storyline is fast paced and really kept my interest. The cover is definitely one that draws you into the story.

Lizzie is not your typical young Amish woman and she is hiding a secret as well. Stephen is a strong Amish young man who can be very private about things and he as well harbors a secret. These two keep getting thrown together while rescuing kittens which endangers their lives. There is also a sweet golden retriever involved in this story named Sunny. These two share a love of animals but not so much of each other. Infact they are downright rude to each other at times. The real problem between the two is Lizzie is Amish and Stephen is Old Order Mennonite. There is also another reason they keep getting thrown together which adds to the story.

I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Susan Lantz Simpson for writing another inspiring story for her readers enjoyment.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a winner from the cover to the last page. It is a heartfelt story from the author set in the Maryland Amish community Simpson is known for in her Amish stories. The heroine Lizzie Fisher is a compassionate, quick witted, spunky and a lovable person with her talents and care for abandoned animals. Her family didn’t see all of her qualities as her characteristics were more of her great mammi than siblings especially with her weaving on the loom she inherited from Mammi Lena. Lizzie had another talent that was hidden until Stephen Zimmerman discovered her secret. The amusement of Lizzie and Stephen interaction was humorous as well as touching with the depth of their nature and inner heart toward others, animals and the talent God blessed them with shined forth. The drawback was being Amish and Old Order Mennonite they didn’t see how they could be together.

I would like to see a sequel to this story for Lizzie’s sister Frannie who was a total opposite of Lizzie or even Stephen’s older brother Seth in the future. Their character in this story will make another great read for their own story to unfold into a more delightful person t o be around.

I received an ARC complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. I have shared my own opinion.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this uncertain time, it was lovely to escape onto the sweet world of Lizzie Fisher, in Lizzie’s Heart. I loved the various romantic schemes that are cooked up along with those yummy Amish treats that leave me hungry. There is a liberal dose of adorable animals and plenty of humor.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

LIZZIE'S HEART is my absolute favorite of Ms. Simpson's books to date. I absolutely loved Lizzie and Stephen and couldn't get enough of their fun romance.

Lizzie has the tendency to rush right into danger without thinking about the consequences. As a result, she endangers her life and needs rescued..Stephen is fun and thoughtful of others, but then so is Lizzie.

I don't want to give away spoilers, but I could rave about this book and characters all day. If you like Amish romance, grab your copy of LIZZIE'S HEART today.

I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own...

[Tambra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it, Its set in my Hometown of Md. I love Amish books, this is a great book. Great characters and some new things I learned.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author, and it won’t be my last. It really did have all the feels. You will laugh and cry, and get frustrated. Lizzie’s Heart was incredible!

Lizzie, as described, is good hearted and impulsive. I often chuckled at what she thought but didn’t say, yet the things she did say really made me laugh. And Stephen is a real gem for a damsel in distress. Throw in kittens and puppies and this is a wonderful, heart warming story that I’ll read again. Here’s hoping for a book 2!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Barb Beechy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is very well done, ups and downs, laughs and cries. Loved this story.. so will you.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! Great story!! Hope she writes more books to this series!! Read all her books!! Love this author's books!! Received this book from Kensington books from netgally!!

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lizzie’s Heart by Susan Lantz Simpson is a sweet, heartwarming Amish novel. Lizzie’s Heart is the 5th book in The Amish of Southern Maryland series. Each book can be read on its own. I thought Lizzie’s Heart was well-written with friendly characters and relatable situations. I enjoyed the descriptions of Maryland. Lizzie Fisher is twenty years old with a knack for weaving, knitting, and sewing. She also has a soft heart where animals are concerned. She has a habit of bringing home strays much to her mother’s dismay (she prefers an orderly, scheduled day). Lizzie also likes to draw but she keeps it a secret. She is afraid that the church elders will not approve and tell her to stop. I liked Lizzie’s upbeat personality and that she tries to see the best in people and situations. Lizzie encounters Stephen when races by him to save the kittens from a burning house. Lizzie has a way of getting herself into sticky situations. Stephen makes wood furniture and raises Golden Retrievers as service dogs. He admires Lizzie’s artwork and Lizzie. But Stephen recently had a bad experience with a woman and is not eager for a new relationship. They each have an elder sibling and attempt to do a little matchmaking. I laughed often while reading this Amish story. I appreciated that the author took the time to explain the differences between Old Order Amish and Old Order Mennonite. I found this fascinating. I enjoyed the interactions between Mary and Lizzie. Mary is such a kind woman who can roll with the punches after raising four boys. I admit that I am fascinated with weaving and liked this being included in the book. It is unique for an Amish novel. Lizzie’s Heart is a heartening and witty Amish tale with cavorting kittens, learning a loom, playful puppies, and matchmaking mayhem.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet book will give you the perfect all of the feel good emotions You laugh, cry and sometimes you'll "hear" Lizzie's thoughts even though you really can't. Some will make you snicker too!
Lizzie is tender hearted. Especially with animals of all kinds. I claim her as my heroine. She's a lot like me who wears her heart on her sleeve like I do. We also have another thing in common.
Lizzie reminds me of a friend of mine taking in animals like that.
I love this author a lot and she always puts out wonderful stories like this one. She has a way of drawing you into her stories from the beginning and the book will not let you go until it is finished. They will leave you full and satisfied.
I love Amish stories in particular because of the beautiful inspirational messages. The author really does a nice job with these.
I especially loved the friendships that were formed because of mutual interets. God has a way of doing that doesn't he?
I highly recommend this sweet book. It's a fun, clean and sometimes it will make you laugh. I think we all need a laugh in times like these don't you?
My thanks to Netgalley and Kensington publishers for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars: 4/5 Star Rating

Lizzie and Stephen are quite the pair and they meet under highly unusual circumstances. I won't reveal the exact circumstances as it would be a huge spoiler but it's a good one, and it may even involve danger. Lizzie seems to constantly put herself in need of rescuing and Stephen always seems ready and able to come to the rescue....much like a "knight in shining armor" and much to Lizzie's chagrin. They come up with a scheme to match their older siblings though and unite in this scheme, but maybe the real match is them! Are they really made for each other and don't even realize it? Will they ever see the truth? Will they overcome the obstacles? He is Old Order Mennonite and she is Amish, but those two religious sects are very similar and it's not unheard of for them to marry, but they would have to work out many issues, and first they would have to fall in love, right???? This is quite an amusing story and readers will be sure to get a kick out of Stephen and Lizzie and their tale. There are also cute fuzzy kitties included.

I received a digital ARC of this book from netgalley and Zebra Publishing. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Patricia Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captivated me from the first page when Lizzie was on a mission to save three kittens from a burning house. And Stephen helped her even though he wondered if she was sane.

These two were such a joy to read about as they dealt with stubborn and cranky siblings and then Lizzie had to deal with her ma'am who didn't like animals. Lizzie is a talented artist who feels she must hide her drawings because she fears the church elders will frown upon her talent. It's one reason she hasn't joined the church yet. Then she meets Stephen who isn't Amish but is Old Order Mennonite.

And that creates another problem--he has already joined his church and can't become Amish without being shunned by his family. So they both fight this attraction they feel toward each other. It's a compelling story as they struggle with different problems. If you're looking for a sweet romance and what seems to be insurmountable obstacles, Lizzie's Heart is for you. It's a story I've found myself revisiting in the days since I've read it.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet story about a young couple who bond through animals but must deal with religious differences. Lizzie is Amish; she's a devoted daughter, sister, and friend to animals. She's also a talented weaver and artist. Stephen is Old Order Mennonite. They meet cute, part, and then meet again. Simpson provides good information on the differences between Amish and Mennonite, and nice atmospherics from the Southern Maryland setting. You probably can guess what will happen but it's a lovely journey with good characters (keep your eye on Franny too!). Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A nice positive read and I'm hopeful this is the first in the series as I'd like to spend more time with everyone.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be very uplifting and fun to read at a difficult period. The characters are fun and warm . I feel like they are someone I could go and in the community and meet. Though , for the first chapter or two, I wasn't sure I really wanted to continue to read the book,boy I am so glad I continued.. I love that Lizzie was so upbeat especially with her sister who seemed to really not like people. Stephan, the other main character has a similar brother., Seth. Lizzie and Stephen try to match make and get their siblings together. I will leave the outcome to the readers. I do so hope the author plans on a follow up so as to find out what happens with the siblings.
#LizziesHeart #NetGalley

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a fan of the books written by Ms. Simpson for a couple of reasons, first of all her novels are filled with sweet. Likable characters and secondly, I am very familiar with the Sothern Maryland Amish because I live nearby and visit quite frequently. I always feel like I’m visiting friends when I read a book penned by this author.

After having read Lizzie’s Heart I can honestly say this is my favorite book that I’ve read by Ms. Simpson. Lizzie Fisher is sweet, charming and truly has a kind heart for animals and freely gives her time to help others in her community and her family. I thoroughly enjoyed the friendship Lizzie had with an Old Order Mennonite family, Stephen Zimmerman and his mother. I felt like I really knew the Fisher and Zimmerman families and loved spending time with them. There is warmth, love and plenty to smile about.

Overall, I though this was a sweet, fun read with an idyllic setting and a perfect weekend read. It was nice to escape to a peaceful place in a loving community.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[C Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been introduced to a new to be author, Susan Lutz Simpson, through Kensington Press, zebra through Netgalley.

Lizzie's Heart is Lizzie Fisher and Stephen Zimmerman delightful love story. By accident, Lizzie and Stephen meet with Stephen helping Lizzie rescue 3 kittens from a burning house, just so happens Stephen’s mother, Mary is trying to locate a Lizzi Fisher to teach her how to work a weaving loom.

As time passes, Lizzie wins the heart of not only Mary, but Stephen also.

Will Stephen and Lizzie commit to each other, or will Lizzie being Amish and Stephen being Mennonite be an insurmountable problem?

Read this book. You will not be sorry. It is wonderful.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lizzie Fisher loves animals and weaving and drawing, but her passions sometimes bring her into conflict with her mother and her Amish expectations and practices. Her endearing character drew me in and made me care about what happened to her. She struggles with relationships in her own family and with an Old Order Mennonite man she meets. She longs to live pleasing to God but it seems her giftings and desires may conflict with the perception of what such a life means. The first part of the novel developed slowly but blossomed into a beautiful story of hope and acceptance. I think it will be encouraging to readers. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

[LuAnn Welker Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have received an AUP copy of this book for review. It is a terrific book. It is a lighthearted romp through the life of Amish girl Lizzie Fisher. Lizzie is an animal lover and protects them so much she puts her life in danger. She is also very talented and is trying to balance that with the rules of the Amish. She is misunderstood by her more negative family. This is just the type of light reading in these times of corona. I give this book 5 stars. These opinions are my own. Purchase this book releasing May 26,2020. You will enjoy.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet story about an adventurous, loving and talented young Amish woman. She meets Steven in an extraordinary way when they both end up running into a burning home.He has a no idea why she is doing that but wants to rescue her.They have several adventures as a result of her love of rescuing animals and her hidden talent that she is afraid to display in her Amish community.This story moves along with delightful writing and story line giving the reader an insight into the Amish and Mennonites communities and their faith.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lizzie's Heart tells the story of two fun and spunky young adults who must try to come to terms with their inner strengths and their talents. Lizzie is Amish. Stephen is Old Order Mennonite. Will they be able to come to terms with their religious differences? This story is about perseverance, love, and the journey to get to understanding. I love how Susan Lantz Simpson brings her characters to life and has the reader turning the page. I look forward to more stories from this author. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lizzie’s Heart by author Susan Lamb Simpson is a delightful Christian Romance Amish tale. It is the story of an Amish girl and a Mennonite man who fall in love. They must fight to overcome their religious differences. The characters were realistic. I loved the author’s gentle style of writing. It was easy to follow. She threw in a few surprises to keep readers on their toes. I loved the kittens! This is a sweet book to get lost in for a few hours. I highly recommend this book and author. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided from Net Galley, but these are my honest words.

[Sheila Hendrix · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely fantastic read. I really enjoyed it. Lizzie and Stephen are amazing characters and the story is irresistible. I’ll say again, I never really thought I would like Amish books. It’s not that I don’t like the Amish, I do, but I just never thought it would be something I would like to read, I was so wrong. I fell in love from page one. It has romance, humor and even a little bit of mystery. The characters are strong and realistic and when you add in the kittens. It can’t miss. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a feel good story that will make you laugh. Susan Lantz Simpson is a wonderful storyteller and I can’t wait to read her other books.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lizzie's Heart is a clean, wonderful story of Lizzie, an Amish girl with a love for animals, and Stephen a Mennonite, who meet while rescuing kittens from a burning building.That might have been all of their friendship, since they live some distance away, but Stephen's mother wants to learn weaving, which, Lizzie happens to excel at. She begins teaching Stephen's mother, and while doing so, their relationship grows and deepens. It's a wonderful, decent story I enjoyed reading!

[Ann Readyoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

#LizziesHeart#HerBalist
Pizza is a twenty year old Amish girl who is impulsive especially when it comes to animals. Stephen a local Mennonite and he becomes her friend as he helps her and keeps her secrets. Stephens mom is taking loom weaving lessons from Lizzie but Stephen is shocked that it is his Lizzie giving the lessons. As they spend more time together tissue questions her faith and Stephen realises his much he means to him. This was a great story, it is warm and loving story.