An Amish Quilting Bee

by Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Shelley Shepard Gray

Three charming stories of cozy quilting circles and budding romance

  Patchwork Promises  by Amy Clipston 

When Colin Zook and his beloved grandmother lose everything in a fire, their greatest loss is a beloved family heirloom quilt that helped keep her dementia at bay. When Joanne Lapp hears about the loss, she decides to re-create the quilt. Colin soon feels himself developing feelings for her, but he’s held back by the knowledge that a future with him would involve care of his grandmother and his farm. Will Joanne look past his list of responsibilities and see him for who he truly is?

A Common Thread  by Kathleen Fuller 

Susie Glick returns from a shopping trip laden with beautiful fabric for her quilting group. On the bus ride, Alex Lehman—her crush from three years ago—sits next to her. Alex left Middlefield to explore the country, and now he’s back and ready to join the church. Susie was just a kid when he left, but now she’s a woman—and she definitely has his interest. The women in her quilting circle aren’t as excited about Alex’s return, assuming that he’ll leave again in search of adventure. Susie is convinced they’re wrong, but just as they start dating, Alex tells Susie he has to leave. He says he’ll return, but Susie must decide whether or not she can trust the man she fears has captured her heart.

Stitched Together by Shelley Shepard Gray 

Rosie’s joy is her yearly project for the Pinecraft Mennonite Quilt Sale, and she dreams of being the top earner. But she’s worried that she’s bitten off more than she can chew with her latest entry. To make things even more confusing, after coming to terms with her single state, she’s recently formed a friendship with Tim Christner. He’s only in town for a month, but he has Rosie wondering if she’s found love at last. Now all she has to do is figure out how to get the quilt done so she can concentrate on him. But with her once very organized life in total disarray, everything comes to a head just before the sale. Rosie is forced to reexamine her priorities before she loses not only her place in the quilt show but everything else she’s ever wanted.


Sweet Amish novellas with happily-ever-afters
Book length: 75,000 words
Includes discussion questions for book clubs

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

336 pages, Paperback

First published December 7, 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

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This a collection of three Amish Romance Short Stories. The first story is Patchwork Promises by Amy Clipston, and That one was the one I liked the least out of these three. The second story is A Common Thread by Kathleen Fuller, and it was my favorite of these three stories. The third story is Stitched Together by Shelley Shepard Gray. The characters in all these book where developed, and I think for short stories the storylines where done very well. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zondervan) or author (Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Shelley Shepard Gray) 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.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab your favorite quilt , a mug of tea and snuggle up for these delightful stories by three wonderful Amish story writing authors.
These are perfect for when you don't have time to devote to reading a whole book , there are three novella length stories here that are so enjoyable to read.
These stories have a common thread and it is sewing/quilt making. I enjoyed reading how the characters came together in each story and helped the others through their actions that are faith filled.
There is kindness and understanding when an older woman has dementia in one of the stories. In another a woman has a change of heart when she sees things aren't as she had assumed they would be. In another a second chance at romance is a possibility but romance is always give and take. Faith filled stories I will read again.

Pub Date 07 Dec 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

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

I love these Amish novella collections! They are perfect for the end of a busy day, when I'd like to read and finish a story quickly before falling asleep. I grew up tying quilts with my grandma, and I've loved admiring Amish quilts when visiting Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

In the first story Patchwork Promises, Joanne helps Colin by recreating his grandmothers beloved quilt, a sweet gesture of service. It took her a long time to do by herself, and I didn't understand why she didn't enlist the help of others during a quilting bee (especially since it's the theme of the collection) in order to get it done as soon as possible so the grandmother didn't have to suffer anguished nights any longer. It seemed like she wanted all the credit, and it didn't even occur to her to allow others the opportunity to serve with her.

The second story by Kathleen Fuller was my favorite. She excels at bringing depth and emotion to her stories and characters. Susie and Alex are sweet together, with an immediate attraction when they are reunited, yet both uncertain of the others' feelings. The conflict comes from Susie's mother, who has abandonment issues from when her husband left their family, and she tries to influence Susie against Alex because of his past as a wandering traveler. An unforeseen separation, letters back and forth, an intervention from the quilting ladies, and a providential reunion bring Susie and Alex together as well as heal the relationship between Susie and her mother.

The final story tests the patience of Rosie as she takes pride in her quilt entry and the admiration of others, yet learns humility through several experiences and mishaps out of her control. It was nice to see her able to let go of her expectations of perfection of herself, and learn to find joy in her relationships.

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.

[linda hole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I seriously do not have a lot of things to say about This book. IT is a 3 novellas book from 3 well known authors. It was sweet, the romance was cute. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read This e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

[Kav · Rating 4 out of 5]

A 'wunderbaar' collection of stories that made me 'froh'! (Enjoyed the glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch words as well! :-) Honestly, you can't go wrong when it comes to these three authors and I enjoyed dipping into a novella in-between my longer reads the past few weeks. Christmas with all its busyness, seems to be the perfect season for novellas. Loved each quilt-centric story and the unique twist each author brought to theirs.

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

A cozy comfort read that will make you want to wrap in a quilt of your own with a hot mug of tea.

Patchwork Promises - A sweet story beginning with much sadness and ending with happiness. A story to show how far we will go for those we love.

A Common Thread - A story that shows us a leopard can change its spots when it comes from the heart. Everyone deserves a second chance.

Stitched Together - Love deserves a second chance and we must be willing to bend and grow as it develops.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed above are entirely my own.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed all three stories in this book but especially the last one. If you are a fan of romance involving the Amish you will love this book. This book make a great gift for somebody this Christmas. I was given a copy for you and all opinions are my own

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Quilting Bee
By: Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, And Shelley Shepard Gray
Patchwork Promises By Amy Clipston
A Common Thread By, Kathleen Fuller
Stitched Together By, Shelley Shepard Gray
Three wonderful authors comes together for this collection of short stories. Each story is Amish and they all center around quilting theme, quilts, and romance. these three wonderful stories were well written and the characters were different in each story and was well developed. The authors kept you reading in each story to see what was going to happen next. Loved the stories and would recommend to readers who love and enjoy a good relaxing book.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice collection of stories focusing on putting other's interests and well-being before your own.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amish Quilting Bee consists of three delightful Amish stories written by different authors. Each author has their own unique Amish charm to share in their stories. The common thread between each story is quilting, family, friendships and romance.
4🌟Patchwork Promise by Amy Clipston:
4🌟A Common Thread by Kathleen Fuller:
4🌟Stitched Together by Shelley Shepard Gray:
Each story will make you smile and touch your heart.
Definitely recommend to readers who would enjoy sitting with a cup of tea and enjoy 3 heartwarming, relaxing books.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and authors for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amish Quilting Bee contains three stories that all have a quilt as an important part of the story. Patchwork Promises by Amy Clipston is the story of Colin Zook and Joanne Lapp. Colin and his grandmother are the only family they have left. After a fire destroys their home, Colin is also dealing with his grandmother's advancing dementia. When Joanne hears that she is distraught about the loss of her family heirloom quilt, she recreates it. She also spends time with them to help wherever she can. As they spend time together, they begin to develop feelings for one another, but both of them are sure the other does not share their feelings. 'A Common Thread' by Kathleen Fuller introduces us to Susie Glick and Alex Miller. Susie is on the bus returning from a shopping trip to purchase quilt materials, when she ends up sitting next to Alex. They share a conversation with one another and become friendly. Alex left Middlefield to travel and after three years, he has returned, ready to be baptized and take his place in the Amish Community. As Susie becomes interested in Alex, her family and friends in her quilting circle try to discourage her, sure that he is going to leave once again. Susie is convinced they’re wrong, but just as they start dating, Alex tells Susie he has to leave, but saying he will return. Can Susie trust him to come back to her? Stitched Together by Shelley Shepard Gray is Rosie's story. She is a wonderful quilter who is hoping to create a gorgeous quilt for the Pine Craft Mennonite Quilt Sale. It is a very difficult and complicated quilt that needs a lot of time and attention. When her sister ends up in the hospital, she has to help her family with their two children. At the same time her brother-in-law's brother comes to town and stays to help the family as well. Rosie and Tim begin to develop a relationship with each other, but the quilt and the children get in the way. Rosie gets angry when things happen to the quilt, until she begins to realize what is really important.

I really enjoyed this book and all three stories it contained. The three authors are all very well known in the Amish Fiction/Romance genre and they did not disappoint with this anthology. There were frustrations, anxiety, self-reflection, family love and romance in each story that was sweet and emotional. I often find novellas lack a detailed plot and storyline, but all three of these stories gave me an well-written and plotted story with great character development. If you enjoy Amish Romance, especially with family relationships, then I recommend this one. The quilting storyline is a nice bonus. Lauren Berst does a very good job with this book. Her voice and expression added enjoyment to each of the stories, as well as giving voice to a variety of characters.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amish Quilting Bee by Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Shelley Shepard Gray contains three charming Amish tales. I enjoyed all three tales of these sweet novellas. Patchwork Promises by Amy Clipston has Colin Zook taking care of his dairy farm and his grandmother on his own. They have endured a great deal of loss recently including a fire that destroyed their home and belonging. His grandmother particularly feels the loss of a beloved quilt. Joanne Lapp learns about the quilt and sets out to recreate it. Joanne wants to make sure to get it right which results in spending time with Colin. Colin finds himself falling in love with Joanne, but he is sure that she could not care for him because of his responsibilities. What does God have in store for Joanne and Colin? A Common Thread by Kathleen Fuller has Susie Glick thrilled to discover that Alex Lehman has returned to town after two years. Susie was a teenager when Alex left, but now he notices that she is a lovely woman. They just begin dating when Alex must leave town. Alex is shocked when he gets a letter from Susie calling off their courtship. He does not understand Susie’s change of heart. Will Alex accept her decision or fight for the woman he loves? Stitched Together by Shelley Shepard Gray has Rosie working on an intricate quilt for the annual Pinecraft Mennonite Quilt Sale. The proceeds help mission efforts, and the top quilt gets special recognition. Rosie is worried she will not get the quilt done in time. Then she meets Tim Christner, her sister’s brother-in-law. Rosie wants to spend time with Tim while he is in town, but she has other obligations. Everything is spiraling out of control for Rosie. Can Rosie get her priorities in order before it is too late? I thought the three stories were well-written with realistic, developed characters. I liked the life lessons we get from these novellas. The importance of faith and what we are willing to do for those we love, everyone deserves a second chance and people can change, and as love develops, we must grow with it. We also see the importance of communication in a relationship and to always follow God’s lead. I like how the quilt theme ties the three stories together. I enjoy stories that touch my heart and leave me smiling. An Amish Quilting Bee has three sweet tales that are perfect for reading on a cold afternoon while snuggling under a cozy quilt.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book of novellas that have the common theme of quilting and sweet romance. Each author brings their own flavor to their stories that make you want to curl up under your favorite quilt, sip hot cocoa, and settle in for an enjoyable time of reading. Patchwork Promises deals with dementia and brought tears to my eyes. Joanne and Colin are so compassionate and caring that I couldn’t wait for them to find each other. A Common Thread was engaging as Susie navigates old feelings and a mom who needs to deal with past hurts. Stitched Together had me laughing at the antics of the twins and the elusive hamster. I enjoyed the lessons contained that we could all learn from. It was nice to see Rosie grow and get her priorities in order. You will definitely want to add this to your TBR pile.
I received a complimentary from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book contains three different novellas by three different authors. I loved each and every one of them. They are all set around a quilting theme and some romance. I loved the characters and the story lines. Each story was very well written. That I found myself reading faster to find out what was going to happen next. I love it when a book does that to a reader. I would definitely recommend this book to others.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When was the last time you read a story that made you smile and just feel good at the end? That's what this book did for me. The book contains three unique and different stories that revolve around a quilting theme. The stories were of different characters, different locations and all were sweet romances. These were written by some very talented Amish writers that I have been familiar with for many years. They have kept me reading and enjoying Amish fiction for a very long while.
After I finished the last story, I felt happy and I realized that in each of the stories, there was no super amazing thing that happened, they were all stories of ordinary people doing ordinary things, but written so that the stories were interesting and captivating and made me smile. It was a very pleasing book and if you want to read an enjoyable and relaxing book, this book is for you.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Kailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet collection of stories! It makes you want to wrap up in a quilt while you enjoy the book! I thought that each one was well written and didn’t feel rushed. They were the perfect length to be read in one sitting.


I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection of novellas are centered around quilt making, assisting others and finding romance in the mix.

Patchwork Promises by Clipston found Colin Zook caring for his aging grandmother after a tragedy that was adding increased pressure to his life. A young maiden offer to assist him with his grandmother with finding a solution for her longing of a beloved quilt could be beneficial in several ways.

Fuller tale A Common Thread centered around Alex Lehman returning to his community, where he had broken the heart of Susie Glick. A shopping trip together could bring a new appreciation for the art of quilt making and all that is involved.

Stitched Together by Shelley Shepard Gray was my favorite tale. Rosie’s and Tim’s story gave way to finding that self imposed goals may not be the ones that are the most important ones in life.

Each tale is set in different Amish communities where assisting others, faith and romance is a common thread in Amish tales. This collection will have readers wanting to snuggle under a handmade quilt or even try their hands at making a quilt.

I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy of this book from one of the authors without any obligation to write a review. I have expressed my own thoughts.

[kerrycat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can always count on these sweet romance collections to clear my head - quick and easy reads with realistic emotional situations and hopeful, happy endings.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good set of stories that were fun listens. I liked the quilting aspect of the stories. These are easy reads/listens perfect for a light read.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

3 great stories by 3 great authors!!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has 3 great stories! Each story features a quilt and romance.
I really enjoyed all 3 stories!

[Josette D’Amato · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read. I’d say these three stories were similar to a hallmark story romance in an Amish setting with quilting being the common thread. Short and sweet.

[Virginia'dele Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three cute and quick stories that feature quilters in their Amish communities. I enjoyed all three of them!

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is three short stories, all involving Amish women who love to quilt. One takes place in Pennsylvania, one takes place in Florida and the other takes place in Ohio. Having an interest in quilts in general, I loved the discussion of the various quilt patterns and the piecing and quilting methods used. Beyond that they are typical Amish romances, written by really great authors from the genre. I like these books of short stories because when I sit down to read if I get into the story at all I don't want to put it down till I'm finished. These short stories make for shorter "down time." I highly recommend this book to those that enjoy the genre.

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

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Patchwork Promises - Pensylvania
A Common Thread - Ohio
Stitched Together - Florida

These stories takes place in the summer and autumn. Each story involves at least one special quilt. Some are for someone special, and some are for contests. There is romance and friendship and faith. The stories have happy endings, and the characters learn lessons about love and life and themselves.

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can be better than three of the BEST Amish writers collaborating on a book? Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller and Shelley Shepard Gray wrote three amazing stories with quilting as the common theme. Wrap yourself up in a quilt and get ready to enjoy these sweet stories.
In “Patchwork Promises”, Joanne Lapp sets out to recreate a quilt for Colin Zook’s grandmother. As Joanne is creating the quilt, she starts to have feelings for Colin. Will the quilt bring these two together?
In “A Common Thread” by Kathleen Fuller, we meet Susie Glick. Susie is a quilter who meets up with her old crush Alex Lehman. Alex is returning home from missionary work. They start to become acquainted but Alex has to leave and help a friend. Will he come back to make this romance work?
In “Stitched Together”, by Shelley Shephard Gray, Rosie is working on a special quilt to enter into a contest. She meets Tim, her sister’s brother-in-law. Will she have time to start a romance with Tim and finish her quilt?
Get yourself a cup of tea to enjoy these stories. I want to thank Amy Clipston, Zondervan Fiction and Netgalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Amish fiction, and I love novella collections, so this was an ideal match! If you're a fan of sweet romances, this is a great book to add to your TBR pile. The stories are written by three of the top authors in Amish fiction: Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Shelly Shepard Gray. Each story stands alone, but they have a common thread: quilts. All three authors created realistic characters and couples that you can't help rooting for. It's a great collection to read while snuggling up with a blanket and a hot drink.

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

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amish Quilting Bee is a book with three special stories written by Shelley Shepard Gray, Kathleen Fuller, and Amy Clipston. Each author has used their own unique writing styles to give their readers an excellent story. The characters are special for each story and the individual stories are amazing. I also loved the cover which helps to draw the readers interest

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

[Sherry Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab a quilt, cover up, and enjoy the three novellas in this book that centers around quilts, quilting bees and romance. These are all stories you will enjoy and can read in one setting.

Favorite Amish genre authors Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Shelley Shepard Gray come together to give us heartwarming stories.

I highly recommend this book for those who love to read Amish books. I received an advanced copy of this book from Zondervan and NetGalley.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! Loved all the stories in the book!! Amy clipston’s story was my favorite!! Love all the authors books!!