Foundation of Love

An Amish Legacy #1

by Amy Clipston

They were “only friends” . . . but they wanted so much more.

Crystal Glick is grateful to live with her brother’s family since her father died and her fiancé, Owen, broke their engagement. Crystal loves her bruderskinner and cheerfully helps her sister-in-law through a difficult pregnancy with babies number seven and eight, but she yearns for a husband and children of her own.

Duane Bontrager is mourning the recent death of his wife, Connie, after twenty-four years of marriage. He and his grown sons have a thriving roofing business but can’t get used to life without her. As the young men prepare to launch out on their own, Duane can’t imagine life alone—nor with anyone but Connie.

When a roofing job at the Glicks introduces Duane and Crystal, they’re attracted in spite of their fourteen-year age difference. But their bishop thinks Duane is better suited for the sweet widow Tricia, and Duane’s sons object to his interest in anywoman. Crystal’s family fears losing her indispensable help. If she must go, they’d rather she be reunited with Owen in spite of his betrayal.

They’re the only two who believe they’re a match made in heaven, can Duane and Crystal overcome the obstacles to love?

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

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2022

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

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Clean Amish Romance, and this is the first book in An Amish Legacy series. I have to say I loved this book so much. This is a book of two people that falls in love with each other fast, but they have to overcome a lot before they can be together. I also love that Duane did not go with what his church wanted and he chose his heart. This was a lovely and cute story that I just could not read fast enough. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zondervan) or author (Amy Clipston) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

FOUNDATION OF LOVE is the first book in the Amish Legacy series. Crystal Glick always puts everyone else’s needs before her own and that is why she is staying with her brother and helping his family who are waiting on the birth of a set of twins, which will be child # 7 and 8. But she also realizes her dream of having a husband and children of her own isn’t going to happen if she continues to put everyone’s needs before her own. FOUNDATION OF LOVE is filled with love, grief, forgiveness, second chances, romance, and healing.

Duane is a widower who owns a roofing company. He meets Crystal one day while he is working on her brother’s farm. Duane is older than Crystal and has three grown sons, one who is very upset with his father seeming to try and forget all about their late mom. Crystal and Duane are happy together and want to marry, but most of the people do not think that they are meant for each other because of their age difference. Duane is fourteen years older than her. Duane also has to deal with his bishop and his friends opinions and the reactions of his sons who are still mourning their mom who died two year ago. Amish fiction seems to be getting more diverse and FOUNDATION OF LOVE proves that fact.

Amy Clipston has created a wonderful series filled with beautiful families and characters. Her descriptions of each setting had me feeling as if I were right there in the Glick kitchen giggling with all of the children. FOUNDATION OF LOVE was a quick read for me because I had a hard time putting it down once I started. Everyone believes that two people, fourteen years apart in age, can never find happiness together, and Duane’s sons can’t imagine another woman taking their mother’s place. I found myself cheering for Crystal and hoping she could get Duane’s walls to come down. I love the way she never gave up on him no matter how hard he pushed her away. I’m excited to continue this series.

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

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Foundation of Love by Amy Clipston has Crystal Glick living with her brother and sister-in-law along with their six children. Her sister-in-law is currently expecting another set of twins. Crystal spends her days taking care of the house and the children. Duane Bontrager is a widower with three grown children. All four of them miss Connie, Duane’s deceased wife. Duane struggles to manage his roofing business and the household chores. Duane is replacing the barn roof at the Glick’s when he meets Crystal. Duane and Crystal find themselves attracted to each other, but various obstacles stand in the way of their happily ever after. Foundation of Love by Amy Clipston is the first An Amish Legacy Novel. I thought Foundation of Love was well-written with realistic, developed characters. What could be more wonderful than two people falling in love? Unfortunately, family and friends do not make it easy for Duane and Crystal. Even Duane’s bishop has an issue with him falling in love with Crystal. I liked how the story (Duane and Crystal’s relationship) was not rushed. We get to follow Duane and Crystal as their relationship progresses. We get to see them meeting, falling in love, having doubts, and dealing with their concerned friends and family. There is a great cast of supporting characters. The troublesome bishop who wants what is best for the whole community, Crystal’s nieces and nephews, and Duane’s three sons. Crystal’s nieces and nephews were a busy bunch. I thought Hope was a sweetie. I do not know how Crystal handled the day-to-day work of caring for six children plus the cooking, cleaning, and laundry (I would have gone mad). Faith is important part of these characters lives. I liked how Duane and Crystal prayed about their relationship and how to deal with the obstacles in their path. Prayer can work miracles. Amy Clipston combined faith, family, friends, and love into one heartwarming Amish story. I cannot wait to read Building a Future this summer. Foundation of Love is a touching Amish tale with an ardent aunt, a big brood, a tender roofer, a bothersome ex-beau, a burdensome bishop, sensitive sons, a lasting love, and a gracious God.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crystal is very grateful to live with her brother and her sister-in-law and take care of their six children while Leona is on bedrest for the upcoming twins. Crystal has spent her entire life taking care of people including her father who recently died. Crystal and Owen were planning to marry, but Owen left the area to start a new business in Ohio. Crystal is heartbroken but is very happy to take care of her nieces and nephews. Duane is a recent widower and he owns a roofing company. He meets Crystal while he is working on her brothers farm. Duane is older than Crystal and has three grown sons. Crystal and Duane are happy together and want to marry, but many people do not think that they are meant for each other because of their age difference. Of course Owen comes back into the picture and wants to marry Crystal, but luckily she will not have anything to do with him. I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it to others.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crystal Glick is in her 30s and never married because the man she thought she was going to marry moved to Ohio instead of staying and settling down with her. Then her father died and she moved in with her brother and his ever growing family. She was pretty resigned to her lot until Duane Bontrager and his sons came to work on the roofs on her brother's farm. Duane was 14 years her senior but there was an instant connection on both their parts. Crystal has to work through her ex-boyfriend suddenly moving back after 5 years away and trying to restart their relationship, exhaustion trying to keep up with her brothers 8 children -- all young -- two sets of twins, and the input of everyone around her. Duane also has to put up with the opinions of his bishop and his friends and deal with the reactions of his grown sons who are still mourning this mothers death two years earlier. This is a fun book with lots going on. I enjoyed it thoroughly and read right through it in a day.. Amish fiction is getting more diverse and much more fun to read and I especially like Amy Clipston's take on Amish life.

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Foundation of Love was a book I simply could not set down. I don’t know exactly what it was about this novel, but I think it was a combination of factors that has definitely cemented this story as one of the best Amish fiction books I have read.

The author captured the grief that these two characters experienced so well. Duane’s grief was from the loss of his wife. He was a good father to his adult sons, ran a successful business, yet his heart was grieving.

Crystal was grieving too, yet it was a different type of grief. It was a grief that existed when she had a moment of time to sit down, looked at her life, and realized that she would probably never have a husband or children of her own. She was grieving that even though she loved her brother’s family, she thought that the possibility of marriage and children had passed her by.

The author wrote great conflict into the novel as well as great attraction. I loved the way Crystal and Duane’s romance began and I really felt for them as they kept hearing over and over again from their families and friends that they believed they were not right for each other. The conflict was especially heated with one of Duane’s sons and felt like a very realistic reaction to Duane wanting to date someone.

I could physically feel the tiredness that Crystal experienced as she juggled all of the demands of the growing family that she lived with. The fact that she loved them all was clear, yet it drained her emotionally and physically at times. I liked that even though it was easy to see that Crystal’s brother and sister-in-law truly had relied on her doing so much of the work over the years, they did not actually realize that they were doing this. It wasn’t malicious. They were just overwhelmed.

If the entire series was available right now, I believe that I would not be able to rest until I read each book. That is how much I enjoyed this story and how anxious I am to know what happens in future books. As it is, I will try to patiently wait as each book is released, but it won’t be easy!

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

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

[Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't personally think that Amy Clipston could write a bad book if she tried, and I always look forward to her new book releases. Foundation of Love is the first book in her brand new Amish Legacy series, and it's everything her readers have come to expect when they pick up one of her heartwarming stories.

I really enjoyed this one, and found it to be a breath of fresh air within the Amish fiction genre. Crystal has basically spent her entire life living for others, and she's currently living with her brother and sister in law helping them raise their six children as they prepare for the arrival of their twins. Her and Duane meet by default-when Crystal's brother Kane hires Duane and his son's to fix the roofs on various buildings on their family's farm.

The two feel an instant connection, but so many obstacles stand in their way. I'm not used to reading Amish books that feature an age gap couple, and I really found myself enjoying that element in this one. While Crystal and Duane both know their feelings are genuine, they also realize they're at very different points of their life. Duane is a widower with three grown sons, and Crystal's still hoping to meet a man she can start a family with. Not all of Duane's sons are thrilled with the idea of him dating again, and Crystal's ex boyfriend seems to keep popping up around every corner.

With everything working against them, Duane and Crystal will truly have to learn to let go and let God, and also come to terms with the fact that His way is the best way no matter how it may seem in the moment.

With a beautiful plot, a vivid setting, and a well rounded cast of secondary characters, Foundation of Love is a beautiful, heart wrenching story that will stick with every reader long after they've finished reading it.

I can't wait to continue reading this series, and I highly recommend checking this one out if you're a fan of Amish fiction.

Thanks so much to Zondervan for allowing me to advance read and review this!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Zondervan) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you learn how precious true love is and when God leads you to it, you should not give up on it. Instead, you should hold on to it tightly and guard it with everything you have.

Crystal Glick lives with her brother and his young family. It is growing in Amish way. With twins on the way, the Glick family loves their Aunt Crystal. She helps the young ones and keeps the family going. She has no time for herself or romance. That all changes when Duane Bontrager and his 3 older sons come to work on the Glick roof. Crystal and Duane have a connection. They both see something in the other that leaves them both wanting more. There is a 14 year year difference between the two and Crystal desires to have a baby of her own. At first the friendship is sweet and both families seem to get along nicely but when Duane and Crystal make their true feelings known, both families have a terrible time dealing with their budding romance.

Both Crystal and Duane are concerned about those that they love and they don't have the attitude that what others think does not matter. They have to work thru these difficulties with faith and patience has God leads them to what really matters. Patience is a strong virtue in this romance and it makes their love even stronger.

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

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I should of sampled this one before buying. The author tried too hard to incorporate a new modern version of Amish names in all of these characters. I was exhausted by the repetitive emotions and thoughts that for the most part I didn't feel like seemed true to Amish life.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Foundation of Love is a wonderful story about a friendship that develops between Duane Bontrager and Crystal Glick, and I was rooting for them to find a deeper bond. Duane is just about perfect! He remains devoted to his recently deceased wife, he is trying to be a calming, supportive father for his three grown sons, and he is a hardworking and respected member of his Amish community. Is it any wonder that he might be considered a prime catch?

Crystal is also special, and she's endured tremendous hurts. Her parents are dead, her fiancé walked away, and she's being taken advantage of! I had a time hard with Crystal's brother and sister-in-law, because they seem completely oblivious to the demands that they place on her. Poor Crystal! She loves her nieces and nephews and she's thankful to have a roof over her head but taking care of this family of ten leaves her no time for herself. If she did find a suitor, how would she find the time to court? She hungers to hold her own baby, but what hope is there for a single woman in her thirties?

This is a touching portrayal of how we allow others to cloud our vision and alter our perspective. Everyone believes that two people, fourteen years apart in age, can never find happiness together, and Duane's sons can't imagine another woman taking their mother's place. Clipston proves that the heart knows best and we readers are gifted with a heartwarming story of two people who find romance when they least expect it. We're reminded that love can come at any age, and we should never, ever turn down a chance for happiness. Hope, faith, and trust are woven into Duane and Crystal's sweet romance and I'm truly looking forward to the next Amish Legacy novel!

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

[Lori Wilen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, I should like to thank Amy Clipston and Zac Weikal for my autographed ARC. Where to begin....can I give this book 10 stars or more? 5 doesn't really do it justice. A very touching and endearing story featuring characters who feel so real that I should love to travel to Lancaster County to meet them. This was a brilliantly researched and wonderfully written look into Amish family life. It was more than a romance but it touched on so many issues and situations that are real for all of us...Amish and English alike. Through the eyes of the main characters we are given a true view of some of the events and occurrences that any of us could potentially face in our lifetimes. Amy, thank you for this wonderful book and I know I am going to recommending it to all wherever and whenever I can. If you love Amish fiction then this is a MUST for you. If you have never read Amish fiction before and have always wondered why it is such a popular genre then this book is a great introduction and a MUST read. I cannot wait to read the next book in what promises to be a wonderful series. Again, my thanks to Amy Clipston and Zac Weikal for this treat to my mind, my heart and my soul.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wholly enjoyable romance of second chances, new beginnings and fighting for love.

I was cheering for Crystal from the very beginning, she is hardworking and selfless to a fault. I adored that she and Duane are slightly older than your typical fictional couple, and have their own unique set of challenges to face together.

Engaging from the start, my heart went out to Crystal who longs for a family of her own, but things just didn't work out for her in the past. She has a heart for children, and selflessly helps her brother and sister-in-law. Duane is a kind-hearted man, he is wise and has done his best to raise his boys, I loved how the young children trusted him right away.

Overall, this was a wonderful read that I didn't want to put down. I related a lot to Crystal, and loved that she and Duane both stood up for their relationship. A well written read, with a heartwarming romance, adorable children, I loved how they both brought their relationship before God in prayer throughout the story. Highly recommend this well written, feel-good Amish romance.

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

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Foundation Of Love
By: Amy Clipston
Amy Clipston has done it again, another winner. She pens a sweet Amish romance between a mature couple that will keep you turning the gages. I could not put it down. I was not disappointed. Both Crystal and Duane has felt lost. Crystal lost her father she had been taking care of, a broken engagement, and moved in with her brother and his family to help them out. I felt so sorry for Crystal. Duane lost his wife, and him and his three sons are trying to keep their roofing business going. They are older and still at home. Crystal feels that she will never have a husband and children of her own. I enjoyed the budding romance between these two. Could there ever be anything between them but friends? The boyfriend who broke her heart is back and wants her back. I loved the story it is well written , and the characters are well developed. There were times when i had tears in my eyes. I did not want it to end..
I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to read this first book in An Amish Legacy series as Amy Clipston always delivers a different spin on an Amish story that shows they are flawed just like everyone else. I loved Crystal and admired her tenacity to keep going when she was wore out and needed a life of her own. I felt she was taken advantage of by her brother and sister-in-law but she also needed to find the strength to choose her own path in life. Duane and his family were interesting and I particularly appreciated that he talked with his sons and encouraged them to air their feelings. In spite of obstacles and discouragement from others they both find a way to pursue a relationship and the attraction they feel for each other. I throughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the next book in this series.
I won a copy of this book from a blog. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

He he loved this story!
I wanted to start by saying that I am a huge fan of Amy Clipston. Anything she writes is a win win in my book
The Amish are certainly a fascinating people and I love how this author shows us that even the Amish aren't perfect.
I felt like I was a part of this family in so many ways that I didn't want to let go. My dad came from a family like this. 8 kid in all
Tyler is my favorite. He's just so grown up and responsible! I loved that about him.
Korey is my least favorite. He whines too much my opinion.
And Jayden well he's just Jayden with a lot of patience for his brothers. I love how things just rolls off his shoulders. I wish I could be like that. I think I'm a mixture of Korey and Tyler.
The person I most admired was Duanne. How he kept track of his sons was amazing to me.
I felt sorry for Crystal but in many ways I didn't. I still liked her though. She sure had a lot of patience.
I didn't really like Kane or Leona. Simply because I thought they were pretty selfish people who only thought of themselves.
I really appreciated some of the decisions that were made in this novel.
It just goes to show you that you should follow your heart and see what God has in store for you.
This story will leave you thinking about them long after the story is over.
Clipston has a way of doing that to you.
My thanks for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own. I was NOT required to write a positive review.

[Andrea Fleury · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very sweet book. Clean but still a bit of romance . Crystal was hurt by Owen who had left her 5 years ago. She had forgiven him but wouldn't go back to him.a man named Duanne and his 3 sons are working on Crystals brothers roof. Crystal takes a liken to Duanne the dad.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite by far. So well written and inspirational. I couldn't stop reading. So happy with how the story ended. This is the first in a series so I'm excited to start on the second.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy Clipston does a great job in this book of sharing what struggles a family might encounter when a parent moves forward after the loss of their spouse. The chance of finding love the second time in a lifetime brings joy and happiness to two people. I loved this book.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this read, and the pages flew, I couldn't put it down. The characters are wonderful, even those my mind questioned as using someone else, and the author gives us a young woman who feels life has passed her by. Crystal Glick has made her home with her brother and his large family of six children [soon to be eight], and with her SIL on bed rest this lady sure has her hands full, but she accepts and fills her life with grace and love.

Enter a man who has grown sons and is hurting from the loss of his wife, Duane Bontranger, enjoys his family, and has been blessed in his work of fixing and repairing roofs, and having his three sons in the business.

Can a May/December romance work for these two? Well, there are some good twists and turns here, and a chance for romance with others. Solutions appear, and they are not what you expected!

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

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Foundation of Love” by Amy Clipston is a 'wunderbar' story of falling in love at a ‘mature’ age. And the challenge of a second marriage. It is the the first installment of Amy Clipston’s “Amish Legacy” series.

Duane Bontrager’s wife of twenty-four years died over a year ago but he and his sons miss her deeply. He is operating a successful roofing business with his grown-up sons but especially at night he misses Connie, his wife. Duane also has a bishop and how that man loves to dictate what people should do and who they should do it with.

Crystal Glick lives with her brother’s family and remarkably, I think, gladly helps them with their six children who she loves dearly. Her sister-in-law is pregnant with twins, again, and having a difficult pregnancy. Crystal is tired and babies seven and eight aren’t even here yet. Privately, she longs for her own husband and her own babies.

The Glick buildings need new roofs and that is how Duane meets Crystal. You know how you meet someone and within an hour, you feel immediate friendship? That is Duane and Crystal. They enjoy talking with each other. There is always something to talk about. At first, Duane’s sons are fine…

Duane also sees that Crystal’s brother and sister-in-law take advantage of her. Crystal has no time for herself. When you have no time for yourself, your life feels empty even if the hours are beyond full.

Complicating matters is Owen. He was Crystal’s special young man in her youth. He choose to move out of state to start a business with his cousin. That was five years ago. She has not heard from him in all that time. And now, he is back! He is determined to get Crystal back.

As the friendship between Duane and Crystal grows into love, both of their families are not happy about the development. Her family states a considerable age difference and Owen is back… His sons feel it is too soon after their mother’s death.

Then there is Duane’s bishop who seems determined that Duane should marry a nice widow with young children as the continued support of the widow and children was monetarily heavy on the 'Gmay'.

The development of this story is thankfully not rushed. The progression of the growing love and their own personal doubts as well as joy of having a person who they can share the ups and downs of life is handled so well.

The supporting characters are marvelous. From that very aggravating bishop to the oldest of Crystal’s children who is delightful. Is it acceptable for this reviewer to say Evie, one of the twin 'bruderskinner', has been spoiled rotten? A child who screams when she wants Crystal.

This is simply a delightful story. And highly recommended by this reviewed for your Must-Read List.

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

Rating: 5 stars
Cover rating: Exactly right.
Expected Publish date: 1 February 2022

#FoundationofLove #NetGalley #AmyClipston

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet, Amish fiction story that revolves around Crystal who is an amazing aunt to her brothers kids. She becomes friends with the roofer, Duane, but both parties wonder if their differences would keep them apart.

The story was charming and a quick and easy read. Crystal was so selfless in the care for her brothers kids. I at times was tired for her and a little sad that her brother and sister in law took advantage of her.

Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Bonnie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audio

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

This is a sweet, heart-touching story of two people who are struggling to find their way in life again after suffering great loss. Crystal Glick has spent most of her young life taking care of family members. Her father has died; her fiancé broke their engagement, and Crystal finds herself living in her brother’s household and helping with the care of their six children. Her sister-in-law is expecting twins, and is experiencing a difficult pregnancy. The majority of the care of the household now falls on Crystal’s shoulders. She loves her family and loves helping with them, but at times she wonders if she’ll ever experience the joy of having husband and family of her own. Duane Bontrager is still recovering from the loss of his wife of 24 years. Crystal and Duane meet and feel an instant connection to each other. But with 14 years of age between them, their match is not looked on with favor by their friends and family. To add to the confusion, Crystal’s fiancé returns to try to win her love again. There are quite a few complications for Duane and Crystal to work through, and I found myself reading quickly to find out what happened next for them.

I loved the characters of Crystal and Duane and the author did an excellent job of allowing us to get to know them. This helped me feel compassion for these characters and that added depth to their story. I had a difficult time warming up to the characters of Crystal’s brother and sister-in-law. Although kind to her, I felt their lack of recognition of Crystal’s situation went on a little too long. But I also liked the fact that not every problem was resolved for Crystal and Duane by the end of the book. It made the story seem more true to life, and highlighted their decision to move forward with their lives in hope and faith. This is a great beginning to a new series, and I’m already looking forward to the next book.

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

[Angela Mack · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Amy Clipston’s newest book “Foundation of Love” we are introduced to Duane Bontrager & Crystal Glick. Duane, a widower & father of three, owns his own roofing company. Crystal is a single woman taking care of her brother’s children during her sister-in-law’s incredibly high-risk pregnancy. Both Duane & Crystal feel the pain of loss & the hope of love, but will either of them find that love?

My Thoughts:

Amy Clipston has brought to life a new world of characters who experience crazy, unwanted situations, overzealous friends/family overstepping boundaries, and drama, all the while, struggling through a myriad of emotions & surprising revelations. Fighting for a resolution, Duane & Crystal soon turn to God, asking Him to step in & guide them through. I see this reflected in my own life & felt a real connection to the trials & tribulations that Duane & Crystal had to face.

Favorite Line:

“Lord, please stop this bitterness and resentment that’s consuming me today. Help me keep my eyes focused on you.” – Crystal Glick

I enjoy this line because it is a gentle reminder that we all struggle with our day-to-day emotions and a little prayer goes a long way.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet romance with just enough conflict to give anticipation about what will happen next. Amy Clipston certainly knows how to set up situations that make me think, catch my reactions to a circumstance and even compare myself to characters in the story as I react.
Crystal is a strong character who is definitely being taken advantage of. It seems she has been taken for granted by family, friends and the supposed love of her life, Owen. This story certainly shows that it is easy for others to make assumptions and even make decisions for others without truly considering their wants, desires or needs.
Duane, an older widower comes into her life, nearly under the noses of all who surround her and truly sees Crystal. I like how their friendship develops and how she discovers life can be different for her.
I enjoyed this book that was provided to me by the publisher and NetGalley. This is my own unsolicited opinion and I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love Amy Clipston books and this is no exception. I really love that this book is about an older father who loses his wife and finds love again. Both Crystal and Duane have known loss in their lives and they click the first time they meet. I am looking forward to the next books in the series to see how Duane, Crystal and his sons handle being together. The romance is sweet and this is an emotional book. I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Mindy Steele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh how I love these two characters. Chrystal is one of the most selfless heroines I have ever met!!!
Clipston takes us on two journeys of loss and commitments that ultimately ends in a true love that will have you smiling until the last page.

[kerrycat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crystal and Duane are so likable and had some really emotionally difficult obstacles to their relationship - this was a hard-won and well-deserved happy ending.

[Kendra KB.HG · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ate this up. I always had a soft spot for the Amish and this was a super cute mid life romance. Can’t wait to read the second one

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming, lovely, clean Amish romance impacted by family & friends concerns/obstacles. Full written review will be posted soon.