An Amish Barn Raising: Three Stories

by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come three sweet stories centered around Amish traditions and the possibility of romance. 

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston

Though they’ve known each other a long time, Kathryn and Anthony have finally decided to try becoming more than friends—but they are devastated when Kathryn’s father won’t allow them to date. He wants his daughter to marry a man with a more respectable job than building gazebos for Englishers. But when Kathryn’s father’s dairy barn burns down during a thunderstorm, Anthony is the one to arrange a barn raising. Will Kathryn’s father realize he has misjudged Anthony?

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin

A year after the wildfires, life has returned to normal for the West Kootenai Amish community. Evan Eicher, son of Deacon Tobias Eicher, has done his best to move on too. Helping his neighbors and friends rebuild has helped soothe a heart broken when Delilah Mast—the woman he loves but never had the courage to approach—moved with her family back to Kansas. At his father’s urging he courts Anna Burkholder, a sweet woman who adores him. But when Delilah moves back to teach school, Evan must wrestle with feelings he’s tried so hard to put in the past. And an accident at a barn raising will force Anna, Delilah, and Evan to face the truth about their hearts.

Love’s Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller

Devon Bontrager only returned to his old hometown to make good on a past misdeed. He hadn’t counted on reconnecting with Nettie Yoder, especially since she strung along his younger twin brothers some years ago. Nettie knows she’s made some mistakes in the past, but she’s determined to be an asset to her community from now on. But just as she’s making headway, her family’s barn burns to the ground. Why does it seem like God is punishing her family when she’s finally starting to turn her life around? Can she convince Devon that she has changed? Can Devon trust the woman who broke his brothers’ hearts? 


Three sweet contemporary Amish romances
Stand-alone novella collection
Book length: 80,000 words
Includes discussion questions for book clubs

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

352 pages, Paperback

First published April 6, 2021

About the author

Hi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.

Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)

Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)

Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)


An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)

An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)

An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)

An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)

Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)

Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)

Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)

Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)

Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)

Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)

Reviews

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the unity and service that is shown when a community comes together for a barn raising! What a great theme for a collection. There is often a tragedy that occurs in order for there to be a need for a new barn, and the outpouring of love and support is reflected in the gathering. The first story was a bit melodramatic with Kathryn and Anthony's forbidden love, and I found it surprising that her father would hold to such an attitude about non-farming Amish. It makes me wonder if that is based on reality. I liked the second story even though there is a love triangle, and was able to connect to the emotions of the characters. The stand-out story for me was the third by Kathleen Fuller, since I recently read the full-length book that serves as a prequel to this novella. Nettie's 180 degree change in attitude and perspective was surprising, and I enjoyed the way Devon gave her another chance even though he knew about her past. Great chemistry!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun collection of 3 novella length stories by authors who I always look forward to reading their books.
Each story is faith filled and has the common theme of a barn raising with the possibility of a romance in the mix.
An Amish Barn Raising is an excellent read you should recommend to all your friends!

Pub Date: 06 Apr 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the way these three authors have put their own unique spin on a common theme and there's nothing as iconic to the Amish as a barn raising! Each novella delivers depth in both character and plot, providing the kind of sigh-worthy happily-ever-after this reader loves. Times three!

And -- bonus (to this reader, at least, who might just have worn her eyeballs out from a life time of reading) -- this collection comes in the larger paperback format (traditional Christian Fiction paperback vs mass market pocket size!) so it was a real pleasure to read!

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this collection of 3 short stories.

Building A Dream (Amy Clipston) - 4 stars

This connects to her Amish Marketplace series which wrapped up earlier this year. It was a very cute friends to more story, with plenty of faithfulness and heart.

To Raise A Home (Kelly Irvin) - 3 stars

This is connecting to the Big Sky Country series (I think) which I have not read. I don’t think I’ve read an Amish book or novella set in Montana so that was interesting. However, I’m giving this 3 stars simply because I don’t really like to read romance or love stories where one or both of the main characters are dating someone else at first. This one didn’t have cheating (which I appreciated) but I still felt like Evan strung his girlfriend along a bit too long for my liking.

Love’s Solid Foundation (Kathleen Fuller) - 3.5 stars

This one was cute! I really liked the curmudgeonly Elmer, and I liked the themes of forgiveness and self improvement. Nettie showed a lot of maturity and the romance between her and Devon was cute.

[Carla Bruns · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read this book a couple of times. The most recent version I read was an audiobook narrated by Lauren Berst. All three stories are amazing! Of course, this is a group of my favorite authors. Lauren’s narration was excellent—she balanced the different characters, both men and women, with distinct voices while still sounding natural and animated.

In the first story, Building a Dream by Amy Clipston, I really liked the characters. I felt bad for Kathryn and how her dad was so prejudiced against certain career choices, which really isn’t the Amish way—especially since Anthony was nothing but a perfect gentleman.

I enjoyed Kelly Irvin’s story, To Raise a Home. It’s a second-chance romance, and I do love that. I thought the Montana location was unique—it’s not a typical setting for an Amish romance. It almost made it feel a little bit like a ranch/western story with the Amish. I do think Evan’s perspective on what is right and wrong when it comes to courting was a little off, but it was also a driving force of the story. I just couldn’t believe anyone would think the way he did!

For this collection, Kathleen Fuller’s story, Love’s Solid Foundation, was my favorite. Nettie’s desire to change from a selfish, snooty young girl into a caring woman was touching. I also liked that she subtly did this—she didn’t point it out to people, but they just started seeing the change in her. That’s why, when Devon realizes this is the new Nettie, it’s all the more special.

I’d say this is a book I’d read again—but I already have!

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed these three stories. All three had a barn raising somewhere in the story. They also each had a good combination of love, angst, and growth for the various characters. As they are novellas, things developed quickly throughout the stories, yet it was just the kind of read I was looking for.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three different Amish novellas centered around barn raisings and featuring characters we have met in previous series. I think my favorite was the story by Amy Clipson, but I enjoyed them all. I like these books because sometimes we get to see the story of someone who is more of an afterthought in the series. It is a great way to step back into the story and see where the characters are at in their journey.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston

Longtime friends Kathryn and Anthony find themselves longing for more but Kathryn's strict father doesn't approve of Anthony's family or their profession. Does their forbidden love have a chance?

A heartwarming romance born of friendship, engaging and with characters that you want to cheer for. I also liked that they both have other close friends that they can confide in and find encouragement. Kathryn is a sweet young woman, and I like that she respectfully challenges her father's misguided convictions.

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin
Delilah Mast returns to Kootenai to to find her former flame seriously courting another, though she tries, Evan is impossible to forget.

A second chance romance, that was captivating from the start as I wondered how and if they would ever find their way to one another. Delilah and Evan are both admirable characters who are thoughtful and don't like to rock the boat. I especially admired Delilah's maturity throughout, and her respectfulness of Evan's relationship. Sam is an intriguing character, straightforward with a good heart. A wholly enjoyable read.

Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller
Devon Bontrager returns home to make amends, he is surprised to find himself working along Nettie Yoder, who has made self-serving choices in the past that hurt others. He is even more surprised to find himself drawn to her.

I really liked Nettie, even though she wasn't always a very likable person, I admired how she acknowledged her hurtful behavior and made the effort to make amends. Elmer is a gruff, but sweet old man, who ended up being one of my favorite characters. A sweet romance of those at odds attracting.

Overall, a enjoyable collection of novellas each set in different communities about couples who come together through barn raisings. Sweet swift reads for when you don't want something too heavy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Christa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is a collection of three beautifully written novellas by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin and Kathleen Fuller.
The first novella in this collection is Building a Dream by Amy Clipston. Kathryn and Anthony have been good friends all of their lives and have started to think they might be able to take their relationship to the next level. The only problem is that Kathryn's father does not approve of Kathryn dating Anthony. Is there any way Anthony can make her father see that they are meant to be together?
To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin is the next story in this collection. Delilah has moved back to her Amish community in Montana, only to find out that her special friend, Evan has moved on and is dating Anna. Can Delilah and Evan put their feelings behind them and look towards the future as just friends?
The final novella in this collection is Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller. Devon Bontrager has returned to his hometown and starts to form a friendship with Nettie Miller. It seems Nettie has changed for the better, trying to put her past behind her. Can Nettie prove to Devon that she is a trustworthy friend?
This collection contains three unique short stories. I highly recommend reading this book! A great read!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the author and have given my honest opinion.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

The three novellas in this collection are written by different authors but they all share the common themes of barn raisings, Amish living, and of course, romance! Authors Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, and Kathleen Fuller share sweet stories of love in various stages, and each novella leaves a lasting impression. You will laugh, you may cry, but you'll certainly sigh over the strong romantic feelings that they create. There are also thought-provoking incidents that remind us of the deep faith that is prevalent in the Amish culture.

Reading a story by any of these authors is a treat in itself, but having all three in the same collection is fantastic! I recommend An Amish Barn Raising to fans of Amish fiction and Christian fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the author but there was no obligation to post a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love novella collections, especially when they are from three of my favorite Amish-fiction authors.

The three sweet stories are separate, but they share a common theme of Amish barn raisings. And if you're familiar with prior books from these authors, you'll recognize some of the characters, as well. However, this book can be read as a standalone. Due to the novella nature of the book, it's a quick read. The cover, like the characters, is charming and a nice complement to the book.

Each author crafts realistic characters with relatable struggles and vivid detailing that pulls the reader in and makes them feel a part of the story. It's always heartwarming to see how the Amish community comes together for each other.


Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

4 stars:
Building a Dream (Amish Marketplace) - Pennsylvania
Love's Solid Foundation (Amish Letters/Amish Mail-Order Bride) - Ohio

2 stars:
To Raise a Home (Amish of Big Sky Country) - Montana

These take place in the spring and summer. They are about finding love in difficult circumstances. Two out of three involve people moving back to their hometown. The stories I liked were quite separate from the series they are a part of. The other story, the one I didn't like, is directly connected to the series.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are offered three different stories, by three different authors, and they have all incorporated the building of a new barn in the reads.

These are three short stories, and some with familiar surroundings and characters, but can be read alone. Each story is complete in a short period of time, and you will quickly find yourself reading the next! The unfortunate part, I read this in one sitting and when finished, I wanted more!

Now I am looking for more by these authors!

I received this book through Edelweiss and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Mimia The Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book with 3 short stories that in some way or another involve a barn raising. The stories are not related between themselves but have characters mentioned in other books from the authors.

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston

3.5 stars
This story was a good one. With a good conflict, good characters (that we've already met in The Coffee Corner), good writing and a good lenght. The only thing that made me reduce the rating half a star was that I kept thinking the main characters were like 13 instead of in their 20s which reduced my enjoyment of the story. I have no idea why I'd think that but it was weird...


To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin

2 stars
I did not enjoy much of this story. It felt like it was written with some detachment from the characters and, although I don't mind wondering who the main girl will end up with and that can be a point in favor of the story, the ending felt weird and rushed and just a little too convenient. Most of all, the way the characters acted didn't right true for how humans actually are for me and that trumped my enjoyement of this one.


Love’s Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller

4 stars
This one was probably my favourite story of the all book (and made me wish to read the series these characters came from). I liked the characters and their development and most of all it was simply a joyous simple read. The ending felt a lot rushed which is a shame because the story would have been a lot closer to those shiny 5 stars if it wasn't.

[Arjaye-Rose Brewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Building a dream by Amy Clipston

An amazing love story of friendship, perseverance, and showing community spirit. When tragedy takes place and the barn burns down Kathryns father finds it hard to except Anthony’s and his families help. He soon sees that he was wrong and while Jesus was a carpenter too, he now sees that being a carpenter is doing Gods work and is also a respectful job.

Amy writes so beautifully in a way that captures Amish stories and make you feel like your living among the Amish. Time to set off in search of another book by Amy, think I’ve read nearly all of her books now. I’d recommend them all to anyone they are relatable, heartwarming, written in a way that honours God through the characters, community spirit, their friendships, the plots of the books and morals, I love the scriptures and references to God and his nature throughout her books.

To raise a home by Kelly Irvine

A wonderful story about a long distance courtship that didn’t turn out as they’d planned. Evan sets out to soothe his heart by helping friends after his special friend Delilah moved back to Kansas, and after a loss the letters between the two of them soon stop with letters left unanswered. Evan does his best to move on with Anna but once Delilah is back in West Kootenai he’s wrestling with his feelings, while Delilah is trying her best to move on with her life too. Delilah finds a job, however after a mistake she is soon sadly and unfairly dismissed from her job but it looks like God had other plans for her. After an accident they all must face the truth about where their hearts lie.

Beautifully written, relatable for anyone whose tried a long distance relationship. Great reminder to pray about what is weighing heavily on your heart and that things will work out in Gods timing just as it’s meant to.

Love’s solid foundation by Kathleen Fuller

An amazing book on community coming together, helping one another when they need help even when people don’t seem to want help. Devon and Nettie help Elmer out both for different reasons but both make an impact on his health and well-being. While still recovering he decides to help Netties family too along with Devon. God works wonders in people’s lives and I loved hearing the changes within some of the characters lives as a result.

A beautifully written book with encouragement for anyone going through a tough time along with a good reminder in the story that we can trust the Lord to get us through the hard times we are going though.

All 3 of these stories show just how having a reliable community of friends and family that supports you and is there for you can be so helpful and also wonderful to be apart of and give back to too. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves stories about friendship, community, love and faith.

[Tiffany Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This trio of sweet Christian stories center around Amish traditions with the possibility of finding true love. In Building a Dream by Amy Clipston, Kathryn and Anthony have known each other for a long time and have decided to try being more than friends. But, they're devastated when Kathryn's father forbids them to date. He wants his daughter to marry a man who has a more respectable job than building gazebos for Englishers. When, Kathryn's father's barn burns down during a thunderstorm, Anthony is the one to arrange a barn raising. Will this be enough to make Kathryn's father realize that he has underestimated Anthony? To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin is set in West Kootenai, an Amish community that has been devastated by wildfires. A year after the fires, Evan Eicher, son of Deacon Tobias Eicher, has done his best to move on. He's been helping his neighbors and friends rebuild in an effort to sooth his broken heart from when Delilah Mast, the girl he's always loved but never had the courage to approach, moved with her family back to Kansas. He gives in to his father's urgings to court Anna Burkholder, a sweet girl who obviously adores him. When Delilah moves back to teach school, Evan must decide if he's truly been able to move on from his feelings. An accident at a barn raising forces Anna, Delilah, and Evan to face the truth about how they feel. In Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller, Devon Bontrager only returns to his hometown to make up for a past misdeed. He didn't count on reconnecting with Nettie Yoder, the girl who strung along his younger twin brothers years ago. Nettie is fully aware of her mistakes from the past but she's grown and is determined to be a blessing to her community. Just as she's making progress, her family's barn burns to the ground. She feels like God is punishing her family, just as she finally starts to turn her life around. Can she convince Devon that she's changed? How can Devon ever trust the woman who broke his brothers' hearts?

I always enjoy Amy Clipston's sweet stories and this one is no exception. She always writes such sweet, relatable characters. I've always been fascinated with the sense of service and community involved with the Amish barn raising tradition and Amy's story is a fun, easy read. I've read Kelly Irvin's work before and they're always simple, sweet reads. Kathleen Fuller is another writer that I enjoy, who writes sweet, romantic stories and it was a treat to find one of her stories included with Amy's and Kelly's. I enjoyed the theme of community, faith, service, second chances, and forgiveness. If you're looking for a sweet, fun read, this trio of stories will definitely fit the bill.

I received a copy of An Amish Barn Raising in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review.

[SOS · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book of 3 novellas about Amish couples. They were all entertaining stories, but I’ll be honest, I enjoyed the third story, Love’s Solid Foundation, the best. For me, it came across as less formulaic and predictable than the other two.

1. Building a Dream: This is a sweet story about a girl, Kathryn, and a boy, Anthony, who have to figure out a way to convince Kathryn’s father to allow them to date. There’s definitely some divine intervention involved. I did like this story, but I thought the constant insertion of Amish words became distracting. Since everyone seemed to speak English, the dropping of those words, over and over, acted more as a disruption rather than a reminder that it was taking place in the Amish world. I also didn’t find Kathryn’s father at all believable. He lives in a community of people who do participate in various careers. I couldn’t believe that he would close himself, and his family, off to anyone who wasn’t a farmer.

2. To Raise a Home: I really liked Evan, Delilah, and Sam. Somehow, I couldn’t warm up to Anna. She was nice, but something felt off about her, maybe she was too perfect and organized. Overall, the characters were lovely, every one of them. This is very much a second chance at love story. I loved Delilah’s sister, Christine, but if I was the word “bopli” one more time, I’d have likely ripped up this story. There’s no reason to be so repetitive.

3. Love’s Solid Foundation: Nettie and Devon were wonderful. The inclusion of a non-Amish character, and Englisher, Each character in this book had their own problems, but Devon and Nettie did all they could to help themselves and everyone else deal with their problems. Nettie’s Mamm was a bit over the top, but in some respects, I think that was understandable. Including a small-minded minister added an interesting touch to the story. All in all, this is a tale about love and remaking one’s self. It offered more depth than the other two.

All in all, an wonderful diversion of a book.

I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. I thank all involved for sharing it with me, but their generosity had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.

[Pam Graber · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising features three premier Amish fiction authors, Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin and Kathleen Fuller. If you love Amish fiction, you can't go wrong picking up this book. It's a fast read. I read the entire book in a day. The stories are sweet, with enough angst to make them interesting.

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston features Kathryn Beiler and Anthony Gingerich, who have been best friends since childhood. When they realize that their friendship is leading to more, they are both devastated when Kathryn's father won't allow them to date. Anthony's occupation of building gazebos and lawn furniture for Englischers is not worthy of his daughter in his eyes. Only a farmer will do. When the Beiler stable burns to the ground and Anthony organizes the barn raising to replace it, will Kathryn's father see that the world needs carpenters, too?

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin takes readers to West Kootenai, Montana where Evan Eicher has started dating Anna Burkholder, even though his heart still pines for the girl whose family left following the wildfires. Delilah Mast is thrilled when her family returns to Montana for a visit. She intends to stay, and takes on the job as the school teacher in order to be allowed to remain. All she has ever wanted was to return to Evan and the relationship they had begun prior to her leaving. Can she convince her heart to let him go when she learns he's dating someone else?

Finally, Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller brings the story of Devon Bontrager's return to Fredericktown to repay a debt that no one knows he owes. Nettie Miller has been a spoiled rich girl all her life, but as her family's circumstances change, she's trying to turn over a new leaf. When she discovers that the neighbor she's been helping is also the man that Devon has come to help, she's wary. Does Devon know what she did to his younger brothers? If he does, could he ever forgive her and see that she is different now?

I loved all three of these stories. Each has a nearly insurmountable problem that love helps to solve. Readers who love Amish romance should definitely pick this one up. It's worth it just to read about Delilah's one-day adventure in teaching! I definitely recommend.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three best selling authors, have come together, to give us 3 stories centered around building, rebuilding and metamorphosing. I must confess, that I love the three authors and have read many of their novels. This one is like hitting the Trifecta!!!

The first novella, Building A Dream, centers on two friends, who have known each other since their school years. However, there is a problem....Kathryn's father is not going to allow her to date Anthony. Anthony is not a farmer and in Kathryn's father's opinion, there is no work as worthy as farming. So, how will they remedy this problem? Can they find a way to try and show her father that Anthony's work is just as worthy as farming? Time will tell.....

The second novella, To Raise a Home, we find former friends, Delilah and Evan, who had courted before Delilah moved away. Well, it's been over a year and Delilah is back, but Evan is now courting Anna!! Oh, how Delilah tries to come to terms with this turn of events, but it is hard....very hard on her heart! How does this complication turn out? Who has Evan's heart and will that be enough?

The third novella, Love's Solid Foundation takes place in Birch Creek. Nettie Yoder would put you in mind of Nellie, from Little House on the Prairie!!! She is someone that has her own idea of life and how to live it!! She takes no prisoners, but leaves enough casualties along the way!! Enter Devon Bontrager, the brother of Zeb and Zeke, twins whom Nettie had betrayed by playing one against the other. Devon is also on a way of redemption for past transgressions. But, Nettie is trying to change and change is hard. Sometimes, you go one step forward and two steps back. Follow these two people in their journey to become better people.

This was a wonderful set of stories. I would carve out some time to sit and read, and enjoy each and every journey these stories will take you on.....I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Zondervan Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Ayla Will · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is a collection of inspirational novellas by three of Amish Christian fiction's most popular authors. Two of the stories featured side characters from previous novels, and I really enjoyed getting to "see" some of the characters from books I'd already read.

Building A Dream features Kathryn and Anthony. They've been best friends for years and have recently started to see each other in a different light. However, there's one big problem--and he just might keep them apart, forever! This was one of my favourites from the book. Despite my feelings towards Kathryn's daed, I enjoyed seeing how both Kathryn and Anthony trusted God to make everything right in the end.

In To Raise a Home, we meet Evan Eicher and Delilah Mast. Evan has always loved Delilah, but when she moved away, he decided he needed to move on. Fast forward a few years, and Delilah is back in town, and so are the feelings the two have for each other. The only problem? Anna Burkholder, the sweet woman Evan has been dating for nearly a year. This story had quite the love triangle going on, and although I often tend to struggle with getting into stories like this, I actually really enjoyed To Raise a Home. I did wish there had been a little more honesty and communication between some of the characters towards the end, however.

The final novella, Love's Solid Foundation, tells Devon Bontrager and Nellie Yoder's story. Devon has temporarily returned to his former hometown to try to right a wrong from many years before, but Nellie was the last person he expected to see. I'd already "met" Nellie in one of Fuller's previous novels and found her quite unlikeable, so I was quite excited to see what changes this book would bring for her. I loved seeing Nellie change from a selfish dishonest person to a someone who wanted to reflect Christ to those around her. I loved this story!

An Amish Barn Raising is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys inspirational Amish fiction. This is definitely a book I would re-read.

*I received a complimentary copy of An Amish Barn Raising through the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

[LisLovesReading E.Espinoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is a tenderhearted novella collection featuring stories by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, and Kathleen Fuller. Three different Amish communities form the backdrops for these touching tales of family, loss, love, and second chances. Page after page, this book offers moving stories of faith and forgiveness with themes of community, barn raising, and hope threaded throughout each novella.

In all three of these novellas, the authors have crafted uplifting stories that are thoughtful and engaging. Swiftly invested in the plot of each novella, I was easily drawn to the characters within each story. These characters are interesting and authentic. With faithful perseverance, they confront their own insecurities, misunderstandings, and heartaches. They pursue forgiveness, nurture humility, and endeavor to find contentment in the grace and goodness of God. Their honest struggles as well as their desire to do what is right are thoroughly meaningful and encouraging. There is also a relevant harmony among these three stories as they each affirm the value of grace, kindness, faith, family, and community.

An Amish Barn Raising is a special, inspirational book with three edifying stories that will certainly delight and entertain Amish fiction fans. Enriching and heartwarming from start to finish, I gladly recommend this book to all readers.

*I was given a copy of this book by the author. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for a weekend read that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face? This is the perfect book to cozy up to on a chilly Spring afternoon, so what you are waiting for!

Three delightful stories by the amazing trio of Amish romance authors, Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin and Kathleen Fuller are sure to thrill Amish and Romance book lovers alike.

Ms. Clipston brings us the story of Building a Dream. We learn about friends Kathryn and Anthony who have realized they want to take their relationship beyond friendship but one thing stands in their way. Kathryn's father has different ideas about what an appropriate suitor looks like for his daughter.

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irwin tells the story of a seemingly lost relationship - one that never had a chance to start. However, before Tobias can move forward in another direction the object of his affection returns. This definitely complicates Tobias' situation.

Finally, in Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller, both Devon and Nettie are trying to regain footing and make things right with themselves and their community. However, Devon doesn't trust Nettie after behaviors from the past. Can he now trust Nettie or is she still toying with boys' emotions after all these years?

A soft easy read of three enjoyable stories. If you are a fan of these authors or these genres don't miss adding An Amish Barn Raising to your personal library.

I was provided a copy of this book with no obligation other than an honest review. Thank you.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is a well-written anthology.

To Build A Dream (Amy Clipston)

Kathryn Beiler and Anthony Gingerich had been friends for years but how was Kathryn going to let him know she had a crush on him? Anthony also wanted something more with Kathryn. They both pondered how they would tell the other they wanted something more. However, Kathryn’s father disapproved of Anthony’s occupation and forbade Kathryn to have anything to do with Anthony. This is a beautiful story of friendship to something more.

To Raise A Home (Kelly Irvin)

To Raise A Home begins with a snowball fight and a wedding in Montana. The good Lord brought Delilah Mast back to Montana after Evan Eicher committed to another. Would they be able to stay friends?

Love’s Solid Foundation (Kathleen Fuller)

Nettie Miller was a pretty girl from a well-off family. It didn’t bother her to toy with a man’s feelings. But, it has caught up with her.

I appreciated reading the familiar names of the characters in these stories. The stories were not usual Amish romances. I give An Amish Barn Raising 4*/5*

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

[Sunnie]

I enjoyed this compilation so much. Nice, enjoyable and sweet romance. What could be better?!
I will do a short review on each of the three stories.

To Build a Dream by Amy Clipston

Very nice romance story of two Amish people finding that her father was opposed to them dating, forbidding contact between them. This was a story of trusting in God and what he has in store for us. I really liked the sweet feelings this book brought to me. I really thought it was a well written and enjoyable story.

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irwin

This story was another sweet romance with some rough patches along the road. Delilah returns to her home town after a year hoping that her situation with her special friend, Evan will continue as before. But Evan has moved on. It's a sweet heartwarming story and very enjoyable.

Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller

Devon Bontrager's twin brothers have a unhappy past with Nettie Yoder and yet as Devon returns to his hometown, there is something there between them. It is fun to see characters from previous stories come into play. I love that! And this was a story of trust in God and others.

All three of the stories have a barn raising theme and there are all so fun to read. I received a copy of this book from the author and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

[C Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is a collection of Amish stories, one each by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, and Kathleen Fuller.

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston
After growing up together and being best friends, Kathryn and Anthony decide their friendship is more than just friends. There is only one problem, Kathryn's Dad. He says NO. Can anything change his mind?

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin
Delilah and Evan had just begun to date when the wildfires brought destruction to the West Kootenai Amish community, When Delilah returned, Evan had moved on with his life and was dating a sweet girl, Kaylee Plank. What would it take for them to see they should follow their hearts?

Love’s Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller
Devon Bontrager only returns to his hometown to help out an old English man who had once been kind to him.
Nettie, a friend from childhood, has come to realize she has caused many hard feelings by mistakes she has made in the past. Could Devon forgive and forget?

The stories are wonderful, well-written, and very enjoyable. You will enjoy them as stand-alone stories, but you will really enjoy them if you have read other books by these authors featuring these characters..

Thank you, authors and Zondervan for allowing me to read the ARC of this 5-star collection. Pre-order your copy today that will be released April 6, 2021,

[Irene S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these sweet Amish anthologies. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. Amy Clipton's story is about a young couple that is best friends that have fallen in love but her father won't allow them to date. I love how they were true to each other. The second story by Kelly Irvin focuses on former beaus Delilah and Evan. Delilah's family moved out of state after the wildfires. Now Delilah has returned to find that Evan is courting Anna. Delilah struggles to accept the situation while Evan is trying to be honorable. I really felt both Delilah and Evan's emotions throughout the story. The last story is my favorite by Kathleen Fuller. Devon is back in town to repay a past misdeed. In the past, Nettie played with people's feelings until she received a letter from Devon's twin brothers. Nettie has vowed to change herself and how she treats others. Both Devon and Nettie are both trying to help the town's grump. Even though Devon feels drawn to Nettie, he doesn't forget his brothers' warning about her. I love the idea of a person being able to see and change herself for the better and for that to be reflected. I really enjoyed this anthology.

[Tish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three novellas in one. Building a Dream by Amy Clipston is a story about Kathryn and Anthony. Kathryn's father refuses to let Kathryn date Anthony, because he is not a farmer. Anthony refuses to give up hope. How can he convince Kathryn's father to give him a chance. The second story To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin. This is the story of Delilah and Evan. Delilah's parent move from West Kootenai and when they move Delilah and Evan grow apart. Evan starts to date another women. When Delilah moves back to teach school there feelings are still there. Will Delilah and Evan be able to move on or will there feelings bring them together. The third book Love’s Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller. This is the story of Nettie and Devon. Nettie was a rich Amish girl who was spoiled Devon's family was poor and moved away. When Devon moved back to help a English man he meets Nettie also helping the old man. Nettie has changed her family business was in bad shape and financially doing poorly. Will Devon she the change in Nettie and can they find love? Each book has to do with a barn raising. The characters were wonderful and the stories really were a delight.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is a collection of three Amish stories immersed in tradition. Each one is by a different author. Two of them I have never read any books by before, and have been missing out. The glossary in the front helped out with the German dialect used in the stories.

The romance in each one was sweet, tender, and filled with true love. The hurtful circumstances portrayed by some of the characters and then their sense of needing to change and ask forgiveness showed a wonderful feeling of faith. I admired their strength in helping neighbors in their time of need regardless of what they were personally experiencing in their own life.

The stories were easy to read. There were exciting and tense moments that kept me guessing how things would turn out. All three authors described the country Amish lifestyle to the point that I felt as though I was there with the characters. The characters were real people with sometimes normal and not-so-normal circumstances they had to deal with. I would highly recommend this collection.

I won a copy in a Goodreads giveaway and choose to review it.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Raising is three novellas from three superb Amish fiction writers: Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, and Kathleen Fuller. As always, I enjoyed the stories that they brought to us. Clipston’s story centers on Anthony, little brother to Bethany from her book, The Coffee Corner. Anthony has feelings for Kathryn, his long time friend, and she returns them. However, her father is against them dating because Anthony isn’t a farmer. In Irvin’s story, Delilah returns to West Kootenai, Montana after the wildfires that raged there and changed so many lives. Still in love with Evan, she is hurt when she finds him courting someone new. And in Fuller’s novella, we meet Devon, older brother to the Bontrager brothers, Zeb and Zeke, from Birch Creek. Devon returns to their hometown to help an old man who is sick and dying, only to find Nettie, once a spoiled and mean young lady, helping also. Can these couples find love? And how do the local barn raisings make it happen! Read it today to find out! You’ll be glad you did! Thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read the book. All thoughts are my own. #bookstagram
#all_the_pages

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Barn Rising is an amazing collection of Amish stories. Each one was irresistible! I fell for each of the main characters. The first story in this beautiful collection is by Amy Clipston. It’s about two young Amish people who are in love yet the girl’s father doesn’t approve of the young man’s or Hyde young man’s carpenter business. Her father thinks it’s not Amish enough. I felt so sad and torn for these two. Despite not being able to date they pray and hope God will answer their prayers. What I loved was that neither one gave up hope. Even though her dad rushed any ideas of them ever getting together. Sweet, heartfelt, and well-written, Amy Clipston is the best! The other two stories by two other bestselling writers were my favorites too! They captured my full-attention and had me wishing the books were bigger. I didn’t want the tales to end. Addictive, engaging, and emotionally driven-this Amish collection is a must read for all!

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