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Indiana Amish Brides #8
An Amish Baby for Christmas
Holiday blessings aren’t always easy…
in this novel by USA TODAY bestselling author Vannetta Chapman
With a baby on the way…
can this struggling widow save her home?
In danger of losing her farm after her husband’s death, Abigail Yutzy needs help—even if she can’t afford it. At her bishop's insistence, property manager Thomas Albrecht pitches in to aid the pregnant widow. With his troubled past and her shattered heart, their arrangement must stay business only. But their uneasy holiday alliance might just heal both their hearts…
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Indiana Amish Brides
Book 1: A Widow's Hope
Book 2: Amish Christmas Memories
Book 3: A Perfect Amish Match
Book 4: The Amish Christmas Matchmaker
Book 5: An Unlikely Amish Match
Book 6: The Amish Christmas Secret
Book 7: The Baby Next Door
Book 8: An Amish Baby for Christmas
in this novel by USA TODAY bestselling author Vannetta Chapman
With a baby on the way…
can this struggling widow save her home?
In danger of losing her farm after her husband’s death, Abigail Yutzy needs help—even if she can’t afford it. At her bishop's insistence, property manager Thomas Albrecht pitches in to aid the pregnant widow. With his troubled past and her shattered heart, their arrangement must stay business only. But their uneasy holiday alliance might just heal both their hearts…
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Indiana Amish Brides
Book 1: A Widow's Hope
Book 2: Amish Christmas Memories
Book 3: A Perfect Amish Match
Book 4: The Amish Christmas Matchmaker
Book 5: An Unlikely Amish Match
Book 6: The Amish Christmas Secret
Book 7: The Baby Next Door
Book 8: An Amish Baby for Christmas
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2021
26 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Vannetta Chapman
128 books1,448 followersVannetta Chapman is a New York times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over t0 novels. She has sold over one million copies and writes in a variety of genres that include dystopian, suspense, dystopian, romantic suspense, romance, and cozy mystery.
Chapman has 25 years educational experience as an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a free ebook! For more information, visit her at http://vannettachapman.com
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Chapman has 25 years educational experience as an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a free ebook! For more information, visit her at http://vannettachapman.com
https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman
https://www.facebook.com/VannettaChap...
http://vannettachapman.com/blog/
https://www.instagram.com/vannettacha...
http://vannettachapman.com/book-list/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 26, 2022
This is an Amish Christmas Romance, and this is the 8th book in the Indiana Amish Brides series. Abigail is trying to figure out how to move on after losing her husband to a heart attack. Thomas never wants to get married because he is scared of becoming his father. He is an Amish property manager, so the church ask him to help Abigail. This is a cute and sweet story. I loved all the characters in this book, and I could not put this book down. I read this book in one sitting because I loved it so much. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin Love Inspired) or author (Vannetta Chapman) 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.
September 15, 2021
I loved this story. Abigail has lost her husband and is expecting her first child. Her husband left her with a financial burden that is going to make the times very difficult for her. Her Bishop arranges to have Thomas Albrecht help her with her work on the farm and other duties. Although she is hesitant, she realizes, that yes, she does need help.
They each have some issues that cause them to consider their future paths as the days pass.
This is a sweet Christmas story that will make you feel good, happy and blessed by reading it. As they work towards healing, they both need a little nudging in the right direction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
They each have some issues that cause them to consider their future paths as the days pass.
This is a sweet Christmas story that will make you feel good, happy and blessed by reading it. As they work towards healing, they both need a little nudging in the right direction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
November 18, 2021
Abigail Yutzy is a pregnant widow who needs help on her farm. Her bishop gets Thomas Albrecht to help her out. It's a great story of love and faith. I gave it 5 stars.
September 26, 2021
Vannetta Chapman gave readers another heartwarming story with this book. Abigail Yutzy found herself alone after losing her husband with a large farm. Thomas Albrecht was asked by the bishop to go and offer his services as a property manager. With hesitation, Abigail finally consented. Their story is one filled with growing up in a dysfunctional family with issues still bothersome to them. With complications developing for Abigail, Mammi Troyer was sent to help with her care. Mammi was a warmhearted, loving and filled with faith. Abigail found her a joy and found herself gaining insight into her own personal struggles. Abigail and Thomas Christmas story will bring smiles to readers as they discover gems of Amish wisdom, faith and forgiveness will and can change lives as Chapman beautifully wove into their tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without any obligation to write a review. I have expressed my own thoughts.
September 21, 2021
God sometimes uses the thing we are most afraid of to remind us of His sovereignty.
A surprisingly sweet romance. Abigail Yutzy husband passed away months ago and she is currently pregnant. They have a rather large farm in their Amish community. Abigail is not from this Amish community, and has no one to rely on for help. She has pretty much done things on her own so taking help from strangers was very difficult for her. Her Bishop realized that she needed a special kind of help and asked Thomas Albrecht from a neighboring community to help. Their first meeting was a fireworks of words and Abigail was not looking for any help. Thomas was struck by Abigail and with his background was able to talk her down from her pride to accept help one step at a time. Each step brought them closer together and their relationship provided healing from lies believed and insecurities that would not let them go.
I enjoyed their banter and the their struggle of being vulnerable to each other. The birth of Abigails baby added to the change in their relationship and realizing what is important. I also enjoyed meeting others of their small community and how they banded together. It takes patience to take down the walls of insecurity but it also takes an act of love. Highly recommend.
A special thank you to Harlequin Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A surprisingly sweet romance. Abigail Yutzy husband passed away months ago and she is currently pregnant. They have a rather large farm in their Amish community. Abigail is not from this Amish community, and has no one to rely on for help. She has pretty much done things on her own so taking help from strangers was very difficult for her. Her Bishop realized that she needed a special kind of help and asked Thomas Albrecht from a neighboring community to help. Their first meeting was a fireworks of words and Abigail was not looking for any help. Thomas was struck by Abigail and with his background was able to talk her down from her pride to accept help one step at a time. Each step brought them closer together and their relationship provided healing from lies believed and insecurities that would not let them go.
I enjoyed their banter and the their struggle of being vulnerable to each other. The birth of Abigails baby added to the change in their relationship and realizing what is important. I also enjoyed meeting others of their small community and how they banded together. It takes patience to take down the walls of insecurity but it also takes an act of love. Highly recommend.
A special thank you to Harlequin Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
October 25, 2021
This Christmas tale was absolutely delightful and had such a warm and cozy ambiance to it! I have always enjoyed this author’s books, and An Amish Baby for Christmas is now one of my favorites of hers.
Abigail, Thomas, and Mammi were wonderful characters. Mammi provided the love and nurture that Abigail had been missing for her entire life.
Thomas carried a lot of worry about his past. He did a great job of tending to Abigail’s farm and it was clear that he was beginning to care for Abigail. Yet he was afraid to give her his heart and risk hurting her.
Abigail began the book as a sad woman who was very scared and lonely. Things definitely changed as the book progressed! Abigail learned a lot about herself, about friendship and love, about trusting in God, and about giving grace to others. I really loved this story from start to finish.
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...
Abigail, Thomas, and Mammi were wonderful characters. Mammi provided the love and nurture that Abigail had been missing for her entire life.
Thomas carried a lot of worry about his past. He did a great job of tending to Abigail’s farm and it was clear that he was beginning to care for Abigail. Yet he was afraid to give her his heart and risk hurting her.
Abigail began the book as a sad woman who was very scared and lonely. Things definitely changed as the book progressed! Abigail learned a lot about herself, about friendship and love, about trusting in God, and about giving grace to others. I really loved this story from start to finish.
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...
November 11, 2021
Abigail Yutzy is a widow who is expecting her first baby. She needs help with her farm, but Abigail will not accept it. The bishop contacts Thomas Albrecht who is an Amish property manager. Thomas does what is needed for each of his clients. Thomas can tell that this job is going to be unique. Abigail is stubborn and independent. She does not want to accept help, but Abigail knows that she needs it. Thomas wants to help Abigail, but first he must find a way to persuade her. An Amish Baby for Christmas by Vannetta Chapman is the 8th Indiana Amish Brides novel. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone. An Amish Baby for Christmas is a cute story. I enjoyed reading it. I love when a book makes me laugh. I thought An Amish Baby for Christmas was well-written with realistic main characters. I enjoyed getting to know Abigail and Thomas. I felt bad for Abigail who is in the rough stage of pregnancy when your feet swell, your hot all the time, the baby is pushing on the wrong places, you have the need to use the bathroom every half an hour, and you are just plain miserable. The poor thing could not get her feet into her shoes (she needed a good pair of slippers). Thomas is a kind man who has a unique business. I thought he had come up with a clever way to make money. I loved Mammi Troyer. She is a sweet woman whose faith is strong and she is just who Abigail needed. I enjoyed the humor sprinkled throughout the story as well as the wise sayings. There was one scene with Thomas and a diaper that cracked me up. We need more feel-good stories like this one. An Amish Baby for Christmas is a touching Christmas story that will leave you with a smile on your face when you finish it. An Amish Baby for Christmas is a heartfelt tale with puffy feet, a mothering Mammi, fallow fields, a demanding mother, financial difficulties, and a cheery Christmas.
February 24, 2022
I'm really enjoying the Indiana Amish Brides series! The author has a way of bringing emotion to her characters, and I quickly become invested in their story. Abigail is grieving, overwhelmed, and at her wits end. Thomas excels at finding solutions, and as they work together to find options for Abigail's future, a friendship blossoms and sweetens into something more. I loved how Thomas gave her the support and empowerment she missed in her marriage, and she became stronger with each step forward she took. The wisdom of the bishop is the quiet, encouraging type, and I appreciated his style of leadership and service. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
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.
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.
November 1, 2021
A heartfelt Christmas story of new beginnings and listening to your heart.
Truly a heartwarming book that will fill you with joy.
I read An Amish Baby for Christmas in one sitting. Yes, Amish stories like this can be predictable but this one brought a unique twist that I totally could get into and imagine.
Abigail and Thomas are so endearing with each other.
Definitely a great clean Christmas romance to relax with.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
*Bookstagram @shortbookthyme
Truly a heartwarming book that will fill you with joy.
I read An Amish Baby for Christmas in one sitting. Yes, Amish stories like this can be predictable but this one brought a unique twist that I totally could get into and imagine.
Abigail and Thomas are so endearing with each other.
Definitely a great clean Christmas romance to relax with.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
*Bookstagram @shortbookthyme
October 16, 2021
I liked this story very much. Thomas Albrecht has a pretty good life. He works as a property manager, meaning he goes to the aid of Amish families in need, mostly widows and helps with repairs and chores under the Bishop's request.
Abigail Yutzy is a new widow with a great deal on her shoulders. When Thomas is sent to help her his aid is the last thing she wants but desperately needs.
I can understand the complexity of both Abigail and Thomas's underlying problems. The dynamics of a family can greatly affect the lives of it's members, throughout their younger years and into the future.
This is a character driven story with sadness, great humor and intelligent people. Additional characters help carry the story forward to a sensible and sweet ending. As the title hints at, I grasped a bit of Christmas spirit too.
For readers who enjoy Amish stories with realistic challenges, the feel of Christmas and a strong sense of faith during drastic times I recommend this newest book in Vanetta Chapman's series. I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. It's a good pre-Christmas read.
Abigail Yutzy is a new widow with a great deal on her shoulders. When Thomas is sent to help her his aid is the last thing she wants but desperately needs.
I can understand the complexity of both Abigail and Thomas's underlying problems. The dynamics of a family can greatly affect the lives of it's members, throughout their younger years and into the future.
This is a character driven story with sadness, great humor and intelligent people. Additional characters help carry the story forward to a sensible and sweet ending. As the title hints at, I grasped a bit of Christmas spirit too.
For readers who enjoy Amish stories with realistic challenges, the feel of Christmas and a strong sense of faith during drastic times I recommend this newest book in Vanetta Chapman's series. I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. It's a good pre-Christmas read.
October 12, 2021
Vannetta has once again created a meaningful, heartwarming tale in The Amish fiction genre, Book 8 in the Indiana Amish Brides Series. This book will keep the reader deeply involved with all of the main characters. Abigal tugs at your heartstrings as she struggles as a young widow and mother to be. Along with there challenges of being left alone, Abigail discovers that her husband has left her finances in a dire state. How can the future ever be bright?? Along comes Thomas, a property manager, who decides he must help this dear lady .Thomas is also fighting his own battles within. Both characters are so vividly described that one can easily identify with each one. I found myself walking alongside them in their journey , feeling every hurt and joy.
September 16, 2021
This is an enjoyable Christmas-themed Amish novel. It's part of a series (Indiana Amish Brides), but it could easily stand alone.
Chapman has crafted relatable and realistic characters, and you can't help but root for Thomas and Abigail. Their struggles and concerns for the future will likely resonate with many readers.
This sweet romance is a quick read, and the holiday season just adds to the overall charm of the story. I look forward to reading more books in the series (and from Chapman).
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Chapman has crafted relatable and realistic characters, and you can't help but root for Thomas and Abigail. Their struggles and concerns for the future will likely resonate with many readers.
This sweet romance is a quick read, and the holiday season just adds to the overall charm of the story. I look forward to reading more books in the series (and from Chapman).
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
December 13, 2021
An Amish Baby for Christmas is an inspiring story written by Vanetta Chapman. The author has developed the perfect characters to tell this story. The author takes us on a journey with Abigail Yutzy as she tries to regain her life after the unexpected death of her husband. Abigail is a feisty, strong-willed Amish woman and she makes it difficult for Thomas Albrecht to help her maintain her farm. Abigail soon learns the truth of the condition of her finances which has her leaning on Thomas for support. Thomas is determined to help Abigail but at the same time remain emotionally unattached. Thomas is scared of newborn babies and with Abigail expecting around Christmas he sees no way for a relationship developing between them plus the secret Thomas carries with him everyday is another reason to stay unattached. This story is filled with love, loss, secrets, and second chances at life.
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 story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. This is the perfect story to read at Christmas.
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 story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. This is the perfect story to read at Christmas.
December 31, 2021
Widowed and pregnant Abigail Yutzy is struggling to keep the farm running, so the bishop sends property manager Thomas Albrecht to help her.
Thomas is used to working with widows, helping them tie up the loose ends of a farm after the loss of a loved one, but he is shocked to find that Abigail is much younger than his usual clients and pregnant. Thomas is a kind and considerate man, he wants to do everything he can to help her, convincing her to begrudgingly accept his help. He is focused and organized, with the know-how to get the job done.
I loved how the community came to help Abigail, even though she struggled to accept their assistance. Mammi is a wonderful friend to Abigail, sitting with her and giving words of wisdom.
A wholesome Amish romance, with excellent characters, well paced plotting, strong faith and a worthy hero.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thomas is used to working with widows, helping them tie up the loose ends of a farm after the loss of a loved one, but he is shocked to find that Abigail is much younger than his usual clients and pregnant. Thomas is a kind and considerate man, he wants to do everything he can to help her, convincing her to begrudgingly accept his help. He is focused and organized, with the know-how to get the job done.
I loved how the community came to help Abigail, even though she struggled to accept their assistance. Mammi is a wonderful friend to Abigail, sitting with her and giving words of wisdom.
A wholesome Amish romance, with excellent characters, well paced plotting, strong faith and a worthy hero.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 16, 2021
An Amish Baby for Christmas is a wonderful story written by Vannetta Chapman. This book is the eighth book in the Indiana Amish Brides Series. The main characters in this story are Abigail and Thomas. Abigail has just lost her husband to a heart attack. Her husband left her with a huge debt and acres of farm land that she is unable to care for. She is also pregnant. Thomas is an Amish Property Manager. The bishop askes Thomas to help Abigail out. Thomas agrees. Thomas is a very kind and hard working Amish man. He does have his own personal fears and has vowed never to marry.
This story is a wonderful read! You will fall in love with Abigail and Thomas. Once you start reading this book, you won't want to put it down. I read it in one sitting!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Vannetta Chapman.
This story is a wonderful read! You will fall in love with Abigail and Thomas. Once you start reading this book, you won't want to put it down. I read it in one sitting!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Vannetta Chapman.
October 6, 2021
An Amish Baby For Christmas ( Indiana Amish Brides #8 )
BY: Vannetta Chapman
An Amish Baby For Christmas is the eighth book in the series Indiana Amish Brides. Chapman does it again. She weaves another wonderful Amish story that will warm your heart. I did not want to put it down. This is Abigail and Thomas story. Abigail has lost her husband and she is expecting her first child. She has found out that her husband has left her in a financial burden. Thomas is a property manager and the bishop has sent him to help her. Can Thomas help her and will she let him? I loved this story and Chapman did not disappoint.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
BY: Vannetta Chapman
An Amish Baby For Christmas is the eighth book in the series Indiana Amish Brides. Chapman does it again. She weaves another wonderful Amish story that will warm your heart. I did not want to put it down. This is Abigail and Thomas story. Abigail has lost her husband and she is expecting her first child. She has found out that her husband has left her in a financial burden. Thomas is a property manager and the bishop has sent him to help her. Can Thomas help her and will she let him? I loved this story and Chapman did not disappoint.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 27, 2021
We were alone for Christmas and our phone, internet, and cable were out so I read this for entertainment and what a great choice that was. The characters were real and likable and drew you into their story immediately. I loved how helpful Thomas was and how he made Abigail reason out her difficulties. I enjoyed their interaction and at times they made me laugh. Thomas struggles with his feelings while Abigail struggles with preparing for her unborn child and financial difficulties. A well rounded Christmas read by a go to author. I recommend adding this to your TBR list as babies and Christmas are great anytime.
I won a copy of this book from the author newsletter. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I won a copy of this book from the author newsletter. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
September 29, 2021
Vannetta Chapman never disappoints. I am madly in love with this book and did not want it to end. Hope there is a sequel.
October 20, 2021
Vanetta Chapman once again wrote a heartwarming story of a young widow mother to be going through a rough time. With a help of a young property manager and Mammi by her side she was able face her obstacles that came her way. She was able to find love with Thomas and heal her heart. This is a great holiday read and I couldn’t put it down.
September 10, 2021
Awesome book
October 21, 2021
Great love story.
November 2, 2021
Loved these characters so much. Abigale and Thomas stole my heart and didn't let go. No two Amish communities are truly alike, and I loved seeing just how much so sprinkled in the story. If you love Christmas romances with all the trimmings of humor, perseverance, and well...love, than I recommend this one.
August 23, 2021
Thomas Albrecht is an Amish man who is saving up to buy a farm. He is working as a property manager to do farm work for people who are unable to do their own. The bishop has asked him to help a young widow, Abigail Yutzy, whose husband died suddenly and left her alone on her farm and expecting a baby.
This is a very interesting story with engaging characters. I enjoyed reading it and recommend it to anyone who likes to read this genre.
I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This is a very interesting story with engaging characters. I enjoyed reading it and recommend it to anyone who likes to read this genre.
I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 9, 2021
A five-star book that fulfills two reading desires -- a good Amish story plus a sweet Christmas read. It is the eighth book in the "Indiana Amish Brides" series.
Thomas Albrecht has a unique profession for an Amish man; he runs a property management business, a suggestion by his bishop Ezekiel Hochstetler.
Abigail Yutzy is a new widow whose husband died with no warning. The bishop of her district talked to Ezekiel and now Thomas finds himself knocking on Abigail's door. Expecting an older person, after all -- she is a widow, he is surprised to have a young and quite pregnant Amish woman answering the door. She is also quite a stubborn pregnant woman who tells him she will manage. And says "Good riddance" to herself when she closes the door. But she didn't know the situation her husband had left her in -- yet. What Thomas sees is that she most definitely needs help.
What follows is a delightful read of Thomas, the giver and Abigail, the I-can-manage-everything-myself woman. I had to like her though -- her feet were so swollen in pregnancy she called them puffballs. I too had puffball feet during pregnancy.
And Thomas, When I read that he had a farmer's hands, I melted. I immediately thought of my Daddy's hands. The supporting characters are rich and not overly done. And that includes the goat!
A poignant story with wise sayings sprinkled here & there. There are moments that will make you chuckle. "Thomas held the diaper as if it was filled with toxic sludge." That had me laughing out loud; it brought back some memories.
A thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Harlequin Books, for the opportunity to read and review an ARC (advanced reader's copy) of this book. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Rating: 5 stars
Cover rating: Very good.
- The wreath over the mantle may not be appropriate for an Amish home.
#AnAmishChristmasBaby #NetGalley #VannettaChapman
Thomas Albrecht has a unique profession for an Amish man; he runs a property management business, a suggestion by his bishop Ezekiel Hochstetler.
Abigail Yutzy is a new widow whose husband died with no warning. The bishop of her district talked to Ezekiel and now Thomas finds himself knocking on Abigail's door. Expecting an older person, after all -- she is a widow, he is surprised to have a young and quite pregnant Amish woman answering the door. She is also quite a stubborn pregnant woman who tells him she will manage. And says "Good riddance" to herself when she closes the door. But she didn't know the situation her husband had left her in -- yet. What Thomas sees is that she most definitely needs help.
What follows is a delightful read of Thomas, the giver and Abigail, the I-can-manage-everything-myself woman. I had to like her though -- her feet were so swollen in pregnancy she called them puffballs. I too had puffball feet during pregnancy.
And Thomas, When I read that he had a farmer's hands, I melted. I immediately thought of my Daddy's hands. The supporting characters are rich and not overly done. And that includes the goat!
A poignant story with wise sayings sprinkled here & there. There are moments that will make you chuckle. "Thomas held the diaper as if it was filled with toxic sludge." That had me laughing out loud; it brought back some memories.
A thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Harlequin Books, for the opportunity to read and review an ARC (advanced reader's copy) of this book. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Rating: 5 stars
Cover rating: Very good.
- The wreath over the mantle may not be appropriate for an Amish home.
#AnAmishChristmasBaby #NetGalley #VannettaChapman
November 22, 2021
AN AMISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS BY VANNETTA CHAPMAN
I was immediately drawn to Abigail because she was vulnerable and needed help. Losing her husband was hard, but being pregnant with no help starts to cause Abigail to feel unprepared. She is used to doing things on her own, but now with the baby almost here, she needs to swallow her pride and accept help.
Thomas is one of those people who is willing to help anyone and never expect anything in return. He works so much that he doesn’t have time for himself. Deep down he is afraid of a relationship but his feelings for Abigail grow stronger every day.
My favorite character in the book is a sweet lady who comes to stay with Abigail during the last weeks of her pregnancy. This woman is full of love and wisdom. The time she spends with Abigail helps heal a broken heart and give her confidence that she has lacked most of her life. When I came upon this in the book I had to stop reading and take these words in. “Someone cannot show what they haven’t learned.” Oh my did that hit me hard. I suddenly understood why my parents never showed me love. They grew up not having anyone tell them they were loved and no one ever hugged them. No wonder that same thing happened to me growing up. Abagail’s mother isn’t able to express her feelings because she doesn’t know how to.
The story is a wonderful example of how our emotions can make us feel unloved . Abigail realizes that being able to share her feelings with her mother helped them grow closer. Letting Thomas help her with the farm allowed Thomas to feel needed. As Christmas approaches our couple find joy, love, happiness and a new beginning. I loved how the story ended and enjoyed the lesson on hope and sharing feelings in order to heal from your past.
September 18, 2021
“Someone cannot show what they haven’t learned”
Chapman has given us another gentle love story chock full of Amish wisdom, and wrapped in second chances. You just HAVE to love protagonists Thomas and Abigail…both raised in dysfunctional homes that left them with a distorted view of themselves (and marriage). When pregnant Abigail is suddenly widowed, an Amish handyman steps in to finish the autumn farm chores. With the addition of an Amish granny who could easily pass for a fairy godmother, we see Abigail’s pessimism about her future begin to shift. I absolutely loved how these broken singles slowly learned to trust each other. And who could resist falling in love together over “an Amish baby” at Christmastime?! This is a feel-good read for any time of year, for sure and for certain.
Chapman has given us another gentle love story chock full of Amish wisdom, and wrapped in second chances. You just HAVE to love protagonists Thomas and Abigail…both raised in dysfunctional homes that left them with a distorted view of themselves (and marriage). When pregnant Abigail is suddenly widowed, an Amish handyman steps in to finish the autumn farm chores. With the addition of an Amish granny who could easily pass for a fairy godmother, we see Abigail’s pessimism about her future begin to shift. I absolutely loved how these broken singles slowly learned to trust each other. And who could resist falling in love together over “an Amish baby” at Christmastime?! This is a feel-good read for any time of year, for sure and for certain.
September 20, 2021
AN AMISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS by Vannetta Chapman is the 8th book in the Indiana Amish Brides series. It’s the fabulous, heart hugging story of recently widowed and very pregnant Abigail Yutzy and Thomas Albrecht, an Amish man with the very unusual Amish job of property manager, in the close knit Amish community of Shipshewana, IN.
Thomas, a kind and giving man by nature, is fearful of becoming like his alcoholic father and determined not to go down the same path. He’s puts all his efforts into his work leaving no time for permanent or personal relationships. He works on one job to completion and then move on to the next. Just as he’s finished with one job, his bishop approaches him about taking on a job for a widow in an adjoining district. The only detail he gives him is that it’s a dire situation that needs his help. Thomas agrees to check into it right away.
Abigail marriage was arranged by her parents because they said it was time. Even though there was no love or tenderness in her marriage, this wasn’t entirely strange to Abigail because she hadn’t seen any examples of such growing up. While her physical needs were met, her emotional and personal ones had been greatly lacking. After finding her husband died, she now finds herself a young pregnant widow with a huge ranch to manage all with no money. Her husband hadn’t seen fit to put her name on anything and had left no will meaning she will have to probate the estate. She also find out he was greatly indebted meaning she’s not even sure what she will own when it is settled. The words of her mother - Learn to handle your own messes – keep ringing in her ears. That’s probably why she had keep refusing help from her bishop determined to do it on her own. With Thomas’ persistence and his offer to work for free until the estate is settled, she finally realizes that she can’t do this all by herself and accepts not only his help, but that of her district as well where she finds many new friendships extended to her.
Although their work relationship starts out on shaky ground, Abigail starts to see the softer side of Thomas and Thomas begins to wonder if he could possible settle down to a “normal” life and allow someone into his life for more than a brief period of time.
When Abigail develops severe problems late in her pregnancy, the doctor’s orders are to stay in bed. She’s at a loss on how she can do that, but also knows she will do anything to prevent harm to her unborn child. When the elderly Mammi Troyer arrives to help out, it is a blessing to all, including to Mammi - who now won’t be lonely and has a purpose to her life. It’s also at this time that Thomas begins to wonder if he is developing some strong feelings for Abigail.
Mammi not only keeps up with the chores and fixing meals, but she also teaches Abigail how to do useful things like knit and maybe how to understand her mother’s lack of emotions. Her statement of “People that can’t show emotion had often not had it shown it to them” opens her eyes, takes away the grudges and opens her heart more to her mother. Abigail is determined to show love and affection to her daughter that she always felt lacking in her upbringing.
Will Abigail’s bad case of influenza completely open Thomas’ eyes to what and who he wants in his life? Can Thomas get over his fear of “breaking” little ones and feel the love of having a baby wrap itself around his heart just as tightly as its little hand can grasps his finger? Will Abigail be THE woman to convince him he can have a “normal” Amish life?
What will happen once the estate is settled? Will Abigail be able to keep the farm and if not, where will her baby and she live? Will she be able to give her daughter the best first Christmas starting new traditions she wishes for her? Who will share this Christmas together? Could it be the first of many more years of traditions for them all?
AN AMISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS is so well-written that you will fall in love the characters within the first few pages. Abigail’s determination to do it on her own turns everyone away – except Thomas. Not to be one to give up on a job, he’s determined to help and his gentle ways and soft spoken words make it easy to see his reasoning. As you’re turning pages, you will see Abigail change from stubborn to one that understands that to receive help is giving others the chance to help. You will see Thomas learn that faults of the parents do not have to be carried forward by the child and that everyone is entitled to love if they only open themselves up to it. We all wish we had a Mammi in our lives to take care us when we are down or sick, open our eyes to things we are too blind to see, teach us new things and to love us unconditionally. This supporting character is so well developed that she would gladly be welcomed into my home – whether for a visit or a permanent stay. It was exciting to see the development of the relationship between Abigail and Thomas and to see them overcome things of their past to make a future possible. Their paths may have been different but they converge together in their journey through life at God’s timing in the little town of Shipshewana through the wonderful pages of AN AMISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS.
Although part of a series, AN AMAISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS can most definitely be read as a standalone book. If this is your first book by Vannetta Chapman, it will turn you into a lover of her books like I am. Her books always inspire, give one hope and the showing of true love always comes through within her words. A fabulous story to add to this holiday’s reading or for anytime reading. It’s a big FIVE STAR rating from me and I can’t wait for the next book by this author!
I was received an ARC copy with no requirement or obligation to write a review. All opinions are entirely my own.
Thomas, a kind and giving man by nature, is fearful of becoming like his alcoholic father and determined not to go down the same path. He’s puts all his efforts into his work leaving no time for permanent or personal relationships. He works on one job to completion and then move on to the next. Just as he’s finished with one job, his bishop approaches him about taking on a job for a widow in an adjoining district. The only detail he gives him is that it’s a dire situation that needs his help. Thomas agrees to check into it right away.
Abigail marriage was arranged by her parents because they said it was time. Even though there was no love or tenderness in her marriage, this wasn’t entirely strange to Abigail because she hadn’t seen any examples of such growing up. While her physical needs were met, her emotional and personal ones had been greatly lacking. After finding her husband died, she now finds herself a young pregnant widow with a huge ranch to manage all with no money. Her husband hadn’t seen fit to put her name on anything and had left no will meaning she will have to probate the estate. She also find out he was greatly indebted meaning she’s not even sure what she will own when it is settled. The words of her mother - Learn to handle your own messes – keep ringing in her ears. That’s probably why she had keep refusing help from her bishop determined to do it on her own. With Thomas’ persistence and his offer to work for free until the estate is settled, she finally realizes that she can’t do this all by herself and accepts not only his help, but that of her district as well where she finds many new friendships extended to her.
Although their work relationship starts out on shaky ground, Abigail starts to see the softer side of Thomas and Thomas begins to wonder if he could possible settle down to a “normal” life and allow someone into his life for more than a brief period of time.
When Abigail develops severe problems late in her pregnancy, the doctor’s orders are to stay in bed. She’s at a loss on how she can do that, but also knows she will do anything to prevent harm to her unborn child. When the elderly Mammi Troyer arrives to help out, it is a blessing to all, including to Mammi - who now won’t be lonely and has a purpose to her life. It’s also at this time that Thomas begins to wonder if he is developing some strong feelings for Abigail.
Mammi not only keeps up with the chores and fixing meals, but she also teaches Abigail how to do useful things like knit and maybe how to understand her mother’s lack of emotions. Her statement of “People that can’t show emotion had often not had it shown it to them” opens her eyes, takes away the grudges and opens her heart more to her mother. Abigail is determined to show love and affection to her daughter that she always felt lacking in her upbringing.
Will Abigail’s bad case of influenza completely open Thomas’ eyes to what and who he wants in his life? Can Thomas get over his fear of “breaking” little ones and feel the love of having a baby wrap itself around his heart just as tightly as its little hand can grasps his finger? Will Abigail be THE woman to convince him he can have a “normal” Amish life?
What will happen once the estate is settled? Will Abigail be able to keep the farm and if not, where will her baby and she live? Will she be able to give her daughter the best first Christmas starting new traditions she wishes for her? Who will share this Christmas together? Could it be the first of many more years of traditions for them all?
AN AMISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS is so well-written that you will fall in love the characters within the first few pages. Abigail’s determination to do it on her own turns everyone away – except Thomas. Not to be one to give up on a job, he’s determined to help and his gentle ways and soft spoken words make it easy to see his reasoning. As you’re turning pages, you will see Abigail change from stubborn to one that understands that to receive help is giving others the chance to help. You will see Thomas learn that faults of the parents do not have to be carried forward by the child and that everyone is entitled to love if they only open themselves up to it. We all wish we had a Mammi in our lives to take care us when we are down or sick, open our eyes to things we are too blind to see, teach us new things and to love us unconditionally. This supporting character is so well developed that she would gladly be welcomed into my home – whether for a visit or a permanent stay. It was exciting to see the development of the relationship between Abigail and Thomas and to see them overcome things of their past to make a future possible. Their paths may have been different but they converge together in their journey through life at God’s timing in the little town of Shipshewana through the wonderful pages of AN AMISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS.
Although part of a series, AN AMAISH BABY FOR CHRISTMAS can most definitely be read as a standalone book. If this is your first book by Vannetta Chapman, it will turn you into a lover of her books like I am. Her books always inspire, give one hope and the showing of true love always comes through within her words. A fabulous story to add to this holiday’s reading or for anytime reading. It’s a big FIVE STAR rating from me and I can’t wait for the next book by this author!
I was received an ARC copy with no requirement or obligation to write a review. All opinions are entirely my own.
October 26, 2021
Vannetta Chapman has given us an engaging story about Abigail Yutzy. She’s a young pregnant widow, living in a new community, who finds herself facing an impossible situation. Because of her pregnancy, she’s physically unable to take care of her farm. She is also facing a dire financial situation that seems almost impossible to solve. Bishop Ezekiel sends Abigail some help in the person of Thomas Albrecht to help her manage her property. Abigail wants to handle everything in her own strength, but soon finds that Thomas has some good ideas about running her farm. As she experiences the warmth and love of the Amish community, she begins to hope again. However, she doubts her heart will ever be able to trust enough to find love again.
Abigail’s story is compelling. As we follow her journey of learning to trust and hope, it’s a great reminder to us to trust God to make a way for us and to accept help from our friends when needed. I loved Abigail and Thomas, and enjoyed reading their story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Abigail’s story is compelling. As we follow her journey of learning to trust and hope, it’s a great reminder to us to trust God to make a way for us and to accept help from our friends when needed. I loved Abigail and Thomas, and enjoyed reading their story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
October 29, 2021
Another fantastic story by Vannetta Chapman.
If you have never been to an Amish community or by an Amish home, read this story. Vannetta will take you there. Your lives will be entangled with theirs. You can see the House, Barn, Garden, even the pesky goat. You feel like you are not just reading but you are there, in the house, rocking on the porch, even riding in the buggy.
This book brings warmth, love, laughter, guidance & suspense. The book was very hard to put down..It filled my heart with joy.
If you have never been to an Amish community or by an Amish home, read this story. Vannetta will take you there. Your lives will be entangled with theirs. You can see the House, Barn, Garden, even the pesky goat. You feel like you are not just reading but you are there, in the house, rocking on the porch, even riding in the buggy.
This book brings warmth, love, laughter, guidance & suspense. The book was very hard to put down..It filled my heart with joy.
December 5, 2022
The back cover introduces the book in a following way:
In danger of losing her farm after her husband's death, Abigail Yutzy needs help -- even if she can't afford it. After her bishop's insistence, property manager Thomas Albrecht pitches in to help the pregnant widow. With his troubled past and her shattered heart, their arrangement must stay business only. But their uneasy holiday alliance might just heal both their hearts.
A perfect blurb for this book. All I can add is that I liked the wisdom, faith, and peace of Mammi Troyer, a secondary character who became a role model to Abigail and a part of her new family.
In danger of losing her farm after her husband's death, Abigail Yutzy needs help -- even if she can't afford it. After her bishop's insistence, property manager Thomas Albrecht pitches in to help the pregnant widow. With his troubled past and her shattered heart, their arrangement must stay business only. But their uneasy holiday alliance might just heal both their hearts.
A perfect blurb for this book. All I can add is that I liked the wisdom, faith, and peace of Mammi Troyer, a secondary character who became a role model to Abigail and a part of her new family.
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