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An Amish Holiday #2
The Promise of Easter
As Promise Glen prepares for the Easter season, one woman discovers that forgiveness is freedom—and maybe forever after.
Anna Stoltzfus lives a quiet but fulfilling life in Promise Glen. Though she lost her beloved brother in a tragic accident, her family is supportive and close-knit, and her job as a cherished teacher at the Orchard Hill Amish School fills her heart with joy each day. Anna knows one day she’ll find someone she can love and marry, but she’s perfectly happy with the life she created. Anna’s comfort is quickly dashed, however, when the man Anna deemed responsible for James’s death returns to the Amish community—Matthew King.
Forgiveness is at the heart of being Amish, and no one else blames Matthew; his grief and pain over losing his dear friend are obvious. Still, no matter how she tries, Anna can’t let go of the reckless night that ended her brother’s life so soon. The ache had been more tolerable after Matthew left Promise Glen, but now, not only has he returned, Anna’s father accepts his offer to work on their farm.
As the preparation for Easter begins, Anna’s regular contact with Matthew introduces her to a man far different than the boy she knew before. Perhaps the season of solemn reflection and joyous remembrance might be exactly what they both need to find forgiveness for the past for a hopeful future…
Anna Stoltzfus lives a quiet but fulfilling life in Promise Glen. Though she lost her beloved brother in a tragic accident, her family is supportive and close-knit, and her job as a cherished teacher at the Orchard Hill Amish School fills her heart with joy each day. Anna knows one day she’ll find someone she can love and marry, but she’s perfectly happy with the life she created. Anna’s comfort is quickly dashed, however, when the man Anna deemed responsible for James’s death returns to the Amish community—Matthew King.
Forgiveness is at the heart of being Amish, and no one else blames Matthew; his grief and pain over losing his dear friend are obvious. Still, no matter how she tries, Anna can’t let go of the reckless night that ended her brother’s life so soon. The ache had been more tolerable after Matthew left Promise Glen, but now, not only has he returned, Anna’s father accepts his offer to work on their farm.
As the preparation for Easter begins, Anna’s regular contact with Matthew introduces her to a man far different than the boy she knew before. Perhaps the season of solemn reflection and joyous remembrance might be exactly what they both need to find forgiveness for the past for a hopeful future…
272 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published February 7, 2023
24 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Marta Perry
201 books769 followersMarta Perry is a Pennsylvania-based author of over 35 novels, many of them inspirational romances. She uses her rural Pennsylvania life and her Pennsylvania Dutch heritage in writing her books, especially in her Pleasant Valley Amish series for Berkley Books and her new Amish-set suspense series for HQN Books.
Marta and her husband live in a centuries-old farmhouse in a quiet central Pennsylvania valley. They have three grown children and six beautiful grandchildren, and when she's not busy writing her next book, she's usually trying to keep up with her gardening, baking for church events, or visiting those beautiful grandkids.
Marta and her husband live in a centuries-old farmhouse in a quiet central Pennsylvania valley. They have three grown children and six beautiful grandchildren, and when she's not busy writing her next book, she's usually trying to keep up with her gardening, baking for church events, or visiting those beautiful grandkids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 12, 2023
I have always enjoyed AMISH Fiction throughout the years that has been written by Marta Perry. The beautiful cover and the book’s title made me want to pick it up and read it. The theme of the story is forgiveness and letting go of past hurts. I loved all the characters that were a part of this story. I thought the story was realistic, entertaining and unpredictable at times. I love the Easter season and what it stands for and this story takes place during the spring. Romance is a part of this book but before that happens there must be a time of forgiveness and healing.
The two main characters of this story are Anna Stoltzfus and Matthew King. The Stoltzfus family was a big family and Matthew King was a friend of James Stoltzfus and well excepted in their home. Then an accident happens that changes everything and Matt jumps the fence and becomes English. Overcome by his part in the accident he returns two years later hoping to make amends with the Stoltzfus family. Anna’s heart is bitter towards Matthew and she cannot forgive him. In order to take Easter communion in the Amish church members must not be unforgiving towards others . Can Anna give her bitterness in her heart to God and forgive Matt for the hurt he has caused her family?
Readers of Amish Fiction and fans of Marta Perry will enjoy this book. It’s book two of the AmishHoliday Novel series.
I borrowed a copy of this book from the local library. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
The two main characters of this story are Anna Stoltzfus and Matthew King. The Stoltzfus family was a big family and Matthew King was a friend of James Stoltzfus and well excepted in their home. Then an accident happens that changes everything and Matt jumps the fence and becomes English. Overcome by his part in the accident he returns two years later hoping to make amends with the Stoltzfus family. Anna’s heart is bitter towards Matthew and she cannot forgive him. In order to take Easter communion in the Amish church members must not be unforgiving towards others . Can Anna give her bitterness in her heart to God and forgive Matt for the hurt he has caused her family?
Readers of Amish Fiction and fans of Marta Perry will enjoy this book. It’s book two of the AmishHoliday Novel series.
I borrowed a copy of this book from the local library. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
February 2, 2023
I have been reading Perry's books for years and she never disappoints. I love the Easter season, so this made this read even more special.
You are going to enjoy this spring read and want to share it with all your friends.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
You are going to enjoy this spring read and want to share it with all your friends.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
February 12, 2023
Marta Perry’s books are always a delightful way to spend an afternoon or a weekend, and The Promise of Easter is no exception. I especially love this Promise Glen setting, which we’ve had the joy of visiting on the pages for several books in the Amish Holiday series and The Promise Glen series just before it. There’s something so cozy about Promise Glen and, even though the community is not without its problems or sins, relatable characters and heartwarming plots abound nonetheless. Don’t worry, though, if you haven’t read the others; it works just fine as a standalone title.
Matthew King has returned home to Promise Glen after an extended absence, and he feels a bit like the prodigal son with the shadow of his best friend’s death still looming over his shoulder. And while most everyone welcomes him back with open arms, Anna Stoltzfus still blames him for her brother’s tragic accident. The more time they spend together, however, the more he desperately wants her forgiveness – and her love. I really enjoyed meeting Anna and Matthew. Their characters were nicely layered, and while they had obstacles (both internal and external) to work through it was never overly dramatic. Instead, as readers move through these pages, they will feel the same stirrings of hope that the first signs of Spring bring to us – the promise of new life and restoration lingering between the lines. Not only for Matt and Anna but also for a hurting little family in need of grace.
Bottom Line: The Promise of Easter addresses several meaningful themes, including survivor’s guilt, PTSD, depression, faith and forgiveness. Yet Perry does this with a tender touch, never making the tone too heavy or the solutions too trite. Readers will fall in love with Matt, Anna, their families and their community, and you’ll close the book with a smile in your heart. An uplifting romance set during a season when new life, grace, and redemption are contemplated and celebrated. Looking forward to book 3!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Matthew King has returned home to Promise Glen after an extended absence, and he feels a bit like the prodigal son with the shadow of his best friend’s death still looming over his shoulder. And while most everyone welcomes him back with open arms, Anna Stoltzfus still blames him for her brother’s tragic accident. The more time they spend together, however, the more he desperately wants her forgiveness – and her love. I really enjoyed meeting Anna and Matthew. Their characters were nicely layered, and while they had obstacles (both internal and external) to work through it was never overly dramatic. Instead, as readers move through these pages, they will feel the same stirrings of hope that the first signs of Spring bring to us – the promise of new life and restoration lingering between the lines. Not only for Matt and Anna but also for a hurting little family in need of grace.
Bottom Line: The Promise of Easter addresses several meaningful themes, including survivor’s guilt, PTSD, depression, faith and forgiveness. Yet Perry does this with a tender touch, never making the tone too heavy or the solutions too trite. Readers will fall in love with Matt, Anna, their families and their community, and you’ll close the book with a smile in your heart. An uplifting romance set during a season when new life, grace, and redemption are contemplated and celebrated. Looking forward to book 3!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 28, 2023
Another enjoyable book in this series
February 19, 2023
The Promise of Easter by Marta Perry, book five in her Promise Glen series, is an inspiring and heartwarming tale of forgiveness and holiday celebrations in the Amish community. Matthew King has returned home to Promise Glen after an extended absence, feeling a bit like the prodigal son with the shadow of his best friend’s death still looming over his shoulder. While most everyone welcomes him back with open arms, Anna Stoltzfus still blames him for her brother’s tragic accident. The more time they spend together, however, the more he desperately wants her forgiveness; and her love. Anna and Matthew were wonderful and caring people who had to let go of the hurts and obstacles keeping them apart. As the story progresses, those feelings and stirrings of hope that the first signs of spring as well as Easter bring; that promise of new life and restoration can be found between the lines. Not only for Matthew and Anna but also for another family hurting and in need of grace.
Ms. Perry wrote a wonderfully sweet and moving story that had me feeling all the emotions; smiling, tearing up, crying of heartbreak, and the handling of mental well-being. The message of love, faith, and forgiveness stood strong; making this sweet and inspirational read one I could not put down, drawing me in, making me forget it was fiction. I highly recommend The Promise of Easter to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Perry wrote a wonderfully sweet and moving story that had me feeling all the emotions; smiling, tearing up, crying of heartbreak, and the handling of mental well-being. The message of love, faith, and forgiveness stood strong; making this sweet and inspirational read one I could not put down, drawing me in, making me forget it was fiction. I highly recommend The Promise of Easter to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 3, 2022
This book is a perfect definition of snuggles. It was one cozy, enjoyable and a perfect contemporary holiday romance that I couldn’t seem to get enough of. It was a sweet story, that very handled the topic of mental well-being. I loved the characters. Along with that, the word-building and pacing was simply marvellous.
October 6, 2022
The Promise of Easter is another sweet entry in Marta Perry's Promise Glen series. I really appreciate how she incorporates mental health issues within the Amish community. I really enjoyed it!
I received an advance reader copy of this title from the publisher.
I received an advance reader copy of this title from the publisher.
March 24, 2023
I absolutely love the way Marta Perry tells a story and this Promise Glen series is one of her finest. The way she portrays multi-generational family dynamics makes me all kinds of happy and the Stoltzfus clan is certainly memorable. Chock full of humour and wisdom…and the kind of angst you’d expect in a large family. Anna is certainly blessed to have their love and support…even when she is harbouring a very misguided (and un-Amish) dose of blame towards Matthew.
So, kind of a frenemies to more romance. They were friends in their youth, up until the horrible accident that took Anna’s brother’s life. And then Anna projected all her heartache and fury onto Matthew. She was relieved when he left the community for the Englisch world and furious when he returns.
Easter time is the perfect setting for a redemption story — and both Anna and Matthew find forgiveness and grace through the course of this read. Learning to forgive — both ones self and others is a big part of the inspirational message. Love how Anna and Matthew are on a journey, but they are not alone. There are wonderful secondary characters who walk along side them, encouraging (and speaking plainly when needed…I’m looking at you Aunt Ella!) and helping them put the past and the present into perspective so they are finally free to look ahead to a future full of hope.
The Stoltzfus family puts me in mind of an Amish Waltons — same touch of heartwarming mixed with laughter while dealing with true-to-life issues that can happen to anyone. I wish there was an entire series dedicated to them! (Hint to the author…after all, there are a lot of children who will need matchmaking at some point in their futures!)
So, kind of a frenemies to more romance. They were friends in their youth, up until the horrible accident that took Anna’s brother’s life. And then Anna projected all her heartache and fury onto Matthew. She was relieved when he left the community for the Englisch world and furious when he returns.
Easter time is the perfect setting for a redemption story — and both Anna and Matthew find forgiveness and grace through the course of this read. Learning to forgive — both ones self and others is a big part of the inspirational message. Love how Anna and Matthew are on a journey, but they are not alone. There are wonderful secondary characters who walk along side them, encouraging (and speaking plainly when needed…I’m looking at you Aunt Ella!) and helping them put the past and the present into perspective so they are finally free to look ahead to a future full of hope.
The Stoltzfus family puts me in mind of an Amish Waltons — same touch of heartwarming mixed with laughter while dealing with true-to-life issues that can happen to anyone. I wish there was an entire series dedicated to them! (Hint to the author…after all, there are a lot of children who will need matchmaking at some point in their futures!)
June 13, 2023
Beautiful Story
Anna Stolzfus and Matthew King, her brother James' best friend, spent much of their youth years together. However, all of that hanged with her brother's death and Matthew's disappearance. As the saying goes, time heals all wounds, but it doesn't say how much time has to pass before the wounds heal. For Anna and Matthew, healing hasn't quite come full circle. They each bear the burdens of loss and guilt, and they each deal with it in their own way. Anna has dealt with her loss by blaming Matthew while struggling to move on. Matthew has dealt with his loss by doing plenty of soul-searching and making amends while attempting to figure out how to move forward.
Anna and Matthew's story completely tugged at my heart strings. I was completely drawn in as I felt the pain, the guilt, the sadness, the struggles and every emotion they experienced. I loved watching Anna and Matthew grow in their relationship while working toward overcoming the stumbling blocks in their own lives. The result is an absolutely beautiful story of hope, faith, forgiveness and love. It's definitely one that I highly recommend.
Anna Stolzfus and Matthew King, her brother James' best friend, spent much of their youth years together. However, all of that hanged with her brother's death and Matthew's disappearance. As the saying goes, time heals all wounds, but it doesn't say how much time has to pass before the wounds heal. For Anna and Matthew, healing hasn't quite come full circle. They each bear the burdens of loss and guilt, and they each deal with it in their own way. Anna has dealt with her loss by blaming Matthew while struggling to move on. Matthew has dealt with his loss by doing plenty of soul-searching and making amends while attempting to figure out how to move forward.
Anna and Matthew's story completely tugged at my heart strings. I was completely drawn in as I felt the pain, the guilt, the sadness, the struggles and every emotion they experienced. I loved watching Anna and Matthew grow in their relationship while working toward overcoming the stumbling blocks in their own lives. The result is an absolutely beautiful story of hope, faith, forgiveness and love. It's definitely one that I highly recommend.
April 4, 2024
I’m a sucker for books set around any holiday. Easter books are hard to find. I like those as they usually center around forgiveness and The Promise of Easter is no exception.
Matthew returns to the community after leaving as a result of a tragic accident which took the life of his best friend. His best friend was the brother of Anna which can’t seem to forgive Matthew for anything. As Anna navigates her teaching job she finds she needs Matthew’s help with a new family in the community. Will the new family’s struggles help Anna with forgiving Matthew? Will Matthew finally be able to forgive himself?
A clean read. This is book two in the Amish Holiday series but each book can be read as a standalone.
Matthew returns to the community after leaving as a result of a tragic accident which took the life of his best friend. His best friend was the brother of Anna which can’t seem to forgive Matthew for anything. As Anna navigates her teaching job she finds she needs Matthew’s help with a new family in the community. Will the new family’s struggles help Anna with forgiving Matthew? Will Matthew finally be able to forgive himself?
A clean read. This is book two in the Amish Holiday series but each book can be read as a standalone.
April 5, 2023
This is the second book in Perry's Amish Holiday Novels series and also takes place in the community of Promise Glen. This story is of Matt and Anna, who grew up together in the Amish Promise Glen community. After her brother's and Matt's best friend's accidental death, Matt leaves the community and becomes English and works in construction. After an accident at work, Matt returns to Promise Glen. Will James' death continue to tear Matt and Anna apart, or will they be able to forgive themselves and, perhaps, have a future together?
This was an enjoyable Amish fiction read with an emphasis on forgiveness and moving on.
This was an enjoyable Amish fiction read with an emphasis on forgiveness and moving on.
April 21, 2023
3.5 stars. This book was a bit dry to start, but turned into a great, wholesome story.
Anna is now the oldest of the children in her Amish family following the death of her brother. She is also the local teacher. With this comes the responsibility of worrying about a new family that has entered the community. In addition, her brother's best friend, Matthew, has returned. Anna has not spoken to Matthew since James' death and she has no intention of forgiving him.
Throughout the story, Anna and Matthew grow together to protect the new family in the community. Eventually, she learns to understand Matthew's point of view from the horrible night that changed their lives.
Anna is now the oldest of the children in her Amish family following the death of her brother. She is also the local teacher. With this comes the responsibility of worrying about a new family that has entered the community. In addition, her brother's best friend, Matthew, has returned. Anna has not spoken to Matthew since James' death and she has no intention of forgiving him.
Throughout the story, Anna and Matthew grow together to protect the new family in the community. Eventually, she learns to understand Matthew's point of view from the horrible night that changed their lives.
April 16, 2023
This book started slow bit got bettebetter. It was a really good book by Marta Perry. I enjoyed reading about Amish SchoSchoolteacher Anna Stoltzfus. She lost her brother James in a tragic accident bit her family is supportive and close knit. She works at the Orchard Hill School and she loves teaching there. Her comfort is dashed though, when the man she deems responsible for her brother's death returns to the community. Matthew King's pain over losing hos friend is obvious. Will Anna be able to forgive Matthew?
March 18, 2023
A fantastic book! The story is unique and engaging! The characters are wonderful and relatable! The setting of Easter time is perfect! Easter is my favorite holiday! Anna is a strong woman. She's fulfilled but struggling with unforgiveness. Matthew is holding onto pain from the past. They each must move forward so that love can be found! A story of forgiveness, love and the importance of faith! A definite must read!
April 11, 2023
My thoughts: Sometimes love comes softly, catching you by surprise. That was the case in THE PROMISE OF EASTER. Anna pretty much hated Matthew for killing her brother, but she didn't know the whole story. As Matthew helps out her family, she realizes he was not the man she thought he was. A good lesson on forgiveness and the way Amish celebrate Easter, and a sweet Amish romance. A couple recipes are included. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.
November 3, 2023
4.5 Rounded up - I thought this started a little slowly, but then I have been reading a lot of thrillers lately, so I kind of had to get used to a different pace. Once I did, I enjoyed this heartwarming story. Good characters and character development, enjoyable imagery of the Amish Easter celebration. Good story. Looking forward to reading the Thanksgiving book near the actual holiday.
March 20, 2023
This is so well written, even with the difficult subjects that this book is about. It doesn't place blame on anyone person or put any characters in a bad light even though they may come from bad situations. I am looking forward to this series. I enjoyed it very much.
May 4, 2024
Marta Perry's books are a clean entertaining story. The plot centers around a spiritual struggle and how it is overcome. They are a joy to read when I just want to relax. I listen to her books while I sew.
March 24, 2023
4 1/2 stars
April 1, 2023
I liked the themes of forgiveness. And Amish culture is fascinating to me; so that’s good, too.
April 24, 2023
I love happy endings.
July 17, 2023
It was interesting to see post-partum depression as a subplot in one of these books. This romance was not overbearingly religious and could easily have been set in the Englisch world.
July 26, 2023
Perry does a wonderful job creating characters dealing with grief, blame, and forgiveness. I also enjoyed learning about Amish Easter traditions.
July 30, 2023
Coming
February 21, 2024
Very nice clean Amish romance! I enjoy this authors books.
April 19, 2025
What a wonderful read and forgiveness,love and happiness
June 24, 2025
I loved this story ❤️
June 5, 2023
Ms. Perry has once again provided us another great book in the series. It's a standalone read; however, I recommend you read the whole series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews