One More Time for Joy

Paradise Valley #3

by Amy Lillard

Joy Lehman has pressed on faithfully since losing her husband, raising their children and running a thriving bakery alone. Even caring for her oldest son, Johnny—seriously injured after a fall—has not shaken her fierce independence. Johnny will walk again, she’s sure. Until then, a meeting of the Widows’ Club at her home makes it clear that Joy must consider some costly renovations. Her brother-in-law, Uriah, is happy to provide the lumber and the labor—if Joy will accept his help.

Uriah understands family challenges—he’s a widower himself, and father to four daughters. Yet he can see that Joy’s struggle lies deeper than house repairs, in learning to accept an altered future for her son. As Uriah’s daughters begin helping in the bakery, and Joy and Uriah’s bond grows deeper, a new possibility glows bright—the unexpected happiness that lies in embracing one strong, united family, filled with support and love . . .

Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Romance

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2023

About the author

I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)

Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I connected to this story from the first page. I love it when this happens! This was a sweet Amish Romance by Amy Lillard. It’s a family story and at times an emotional one. In my opinion that’s what makes a book a good read. It is the third book of the Author’s Paradise Valley series. I found it to be entertaining and it was hard to put the book down once I started to read it. I loved the Characters and the Author did a great job of taking me, the reader, inside the minds of the main characters. I found it interesting to read that the little Amish girls played with English dolls and faceless dolls were described as a thing of the past.
This is a story of an Amish widower, Uriah Lehman, and an Amish widow , Joy Lehman. The two are actually in-laws by marriage. Between them there are eight kids of various ages. One is a disabled wheel chair bound teenager. When Uriah decides to gift Joy with the extension of a dawdyhaus to her home the two in-laws spend a lot of time together . The extension to Joy’s house is totally necessary to help Johnny B get around with his wheelchair. The kids have mixed feelings about about their parents spending so much time together. Find out how things turn out for these two families when you read this beautiful and heartfelt story about two lonely adults and eight children who are missing one of their late parents .

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading Amish fiction and clean romance. This book is part of a series but I think that it could be read as a stand alone.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#OneMoreTimeforJoy#NetGalley

[Tina Loves To Read]

This is an Amish Fiction book, and this is the third book in the Paradise Valley series. I have read and reviewed the first two books in this series. I have to say I really did not like any of the characters in this book, and I could not connect to any of them. I ended up DNFing this book because I just found the characters just said the same things over and over. I was just really done with this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this book.
It was such a powerful and uplifting that I felt so good while I was reading it and even afterwards.
In this third book in the Paradise Valley series the “Whoopie Pie Widow’s Club,” a group of widowed women whom Joy is a part of help each other and others in need in the community in their time of need. In Joy's case she has a wheelchair bound son who is bitterly disappointed when doctors tell him he'll never walk again.
I just loved Joy's character, after her husband's death she has to support her children and she works long, exhausting hours in her home bakery, with very little help.
Widower Uriah, who happens to be her brother-in-law is contacted by the Widowers club to help with some home improvements at Joy's home to accommodate her son's wheelchair.
Joy and Uriah both being widowed with children have challenges in their daily lives but do have a positive outlook on life. I loved seeing the children from each family become more involved with the other family in trying to bring their parents together. I very much enjoyed meeting Johnny, Joy's wheelchair bound son and hope we'll see an update on him in a future book.
There is support from each family member as the relationship between Joy and Uriah progresses and I think they know how the relationship will turn out before the couple does.
Such a positive and uplifting book that I was happy to have read.

Pub Date 28 Mar 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

One More Time For Joy by Amy Lillard is book three in her Paradise Valley chaste romance series.

Widow, Joy Lehman has her hands full as a mother and businesswoman. Uriah Lehman is a widower with his own hands full as a father of four daughters and a flourishing lumberyard. In-laws, Joy and Uriah both face widowhood bravely, but now consider a new idea of family.

Amish life and religion are again front and center in this series. The characters are lively and believable. The plot is interesting with compelling dialogue. The story is inspirational on multiple levels. I give One More Time For Joy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of Christian romance.

My thanks to Kensington Books, Zebra, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy and Uriah have each lost their marriage mates and have several children each. In fact, Uriah is Joy's brother-in-law, and had been instrumental in helping Joy and her family after she lost her husband. He got on with his life and at some point became a widower. Currently, Joy's oldest son had an accident and is facing life permanently in a wheelchair. When Uriah offers to make Joy's family home more wheelchair friendly for Joy's son Johnny, especially as Joy is very busy with her bakery, both Joy and Uriah begin to make a connection that neither of them expected.

With a bond forming between Joy and Uriah, there are the children to think about. I loved this story of what would eventually become a blended family, especially since Joy and Uriah are in-laws and their children are cousins. Amy Lillard did a remarkable job with the connections and emotions with all of the children, and Joy and Uriah and their sensitivities with the possibility of becoming a family.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Accepting God's will is what the Amish have been raised and taught to do but when faced with trial after trial, they turned and began to question God's will. Not because the person was bad or unholy, but they were human. Somethings took some people more time to process and accept.

Joy had face trial after trial. The death of her husband, the accident of her son. To cope with these trials, she held on to her independence. She had a successful baking store, and she was driven by being in charge. She was determined that her son Johnny would walk again even after the doctors said that he would not. Uriah her brother in law had his own share of trials. He had lost his wife years ago and was raising young girls that needed a woman's touch. Uriah had approached his sister-in law about his nephew and wanting to help be independent. A turn of events of his kindness to Joy's family became something more.

The journey of faith and trusting God in relationships fits this story so well. How we cope with our own trials becomes a control mind game we play that we always lose. I appreciated the reminder in Joy and the kindness and patience of Uriah. A sweet romance of one more time for love.

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

[Nancy Lepri · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy by Amy Lillard
Zebra
March 28, 2023
10-1420155245

The Amish community of Paradise Valley, Missouri, is the setting where local widows share their bond of grief and faith in the “Whoopie Pie Widow’s Club.” Taking on the sole responsibility of caring for her four children is tedious, so member Joy Lehman missed many meetings since losing her beloved husband, Rudy. Then when her oldest son, Johnny B, falls from the loft in the barn and sustains injuries that may prevent him from ever walking again, Joy finds free moments are scarce.

Johnny B is morose after being relegated to sleep in the living room for he is unable to climb the stairs to the room he shares with his younger brother, Chris. This causes more tension in the household. Joy not only worries about him, but she tends to coddle him, too, something no 18-year-old young man wants. Losing his ability to navigate is horrendous enough, but having his bedroom out in the open and among all the family members is depressing.

Chris doesn’t like this situation either, for he is now moody and hostile, and insists everyone call him “Topher”—the last half of his name. Joy does not like this, but what can she do? With so much to contend with, after Rudy's death, she needs to support herself and her children. She opens a bakery—a popular one—which keeps her extremely busy. She loves baking, but between her business and caring for her family, her life is not her own. No wonder she is wrung out and under constant stress. Thank goodness, her oldest daughter Leah helps in any way she can, taking some of the burdens off Joy. And, her youngest, Jane, never complains or causes any fuss, for which Joy is grateful.

Joy loves her independence and fiercely guards it, even with all the duties she sets for herself though she is constantly fatigued. Proud her business is doing well without relying on others, she lives by the power of her faith and is determined Johnny B will walk again, though the doctors think differently.

When Rudy’s brother, Uriah, offers to add a bedroom addition to the house for Johnny B to guarantee his own space and privacy, Joy is against it. Not only would it be expensive, but her pride will not allow her to accept his offer; she can take care of her family by herself. However, Uriah owns a lumber yard and can attain the materials at cost. He feels the need to help her for his brother’s sake.
Uriah too, suffered a loss when his wife passed from cancer, leaving him with four daughters to raise alone. The oldest Rebecca, 18, and Rachel, 16, are reliable, but he worries about the two younger ones and how the impact of losing their mother affects them.

Adamant to assist Joy, Uriah states it is the Amish way. Seeing the strain she is under, he believes it’s his duty to his late brother to look after her and the family. Before long, Uriah and his helpers are busy adding a “dawdihaus” addition for Johnny B—not just a bedroom, but his own separate apartment with a bedroom/living room, tiny kitchen, and bath, so this way he can be self-sufficient.

Joy and Uriah argue about this:

“‘Uriah, I barely agreed to a room. A dawdihaus?’ She shook her head. ‘That is way more than I planned for.’ . . .

. . . “‘What if Johnny B doesn’t walk again?’

“‘But he will.’

“‘You can have all the hope in the world, but you should consider the fact that if he doesn’t, he may very well live in this house until he dies. He might not get married. He will certainly need some care from his family.

“‘Now a dawdihaus would add value to your own house, give him some independence as he gets older, and since we’re already building this, we can lower the cabinets and countertops so he can utilize the space.’

“Forever. Until he dies.

“It was a staggering thought, and one she hadn’t allowed herself to have. Until now. She was taking it one thing at a time. And first up was getting him to walk again. Once that happened, she could deal with the rest.”

While Uriah works on the addition, he and Johnny B talk about everything and anything. Uriah understands it is hard for Johnny B to discuss guy things with his mother, so he fills in by becoming a mentor. Also worried about Chris’ recent behavior, he pulls him aside to find out what is going on with him. He thinks it is important to help Joy by alleviating some of her pressures any way he can.

Soon, Uriah suggests the two families spend Friday nights together for take-out dinners and board games. Joy is relieved her youngsters are happy, but observes something is up with Rebecca and Rachel, Uriah’s oldest daughters. The two young women consider Joy is trying to trap their father into marrying her, and they don’t like it one bit. Secretly they share a plot to put a wrench in the whole possible wedding scenario.
The girls discuss:

“‘Pay attention tonight,’ Rebecca told Rachel.

“‘To what?’ her sister asked.

“‘Everything. Anything. We have to find something about her that will show him her true colors. Once we have that, we can make sure it doesn’t go any further than him building this addition to her house.’”

As the holidays approach, Joy realizes she needs help in the bakery. She hires a young girl who is not good for much except for keeping company with Johnny B. Joy wonders how she’ll be able to handle all her orders when Rebecca and Rachel offer to work for her. The girls think if they become more friendly with her, they can find out her intentions with their dad. She is their aunt, yet they don’t trust her and don’t want their family to deal with another upheaval. They believe things are fine as they are and do not want another mother and more siblings.

Uriah spends more time working on the addition, and he and Joy are thrown together often. Surprisingly, a stirring of desire erupts between them. But Joy tries not to think about her sudden feelings for Uriah. She refuses to give up her business and independence. As time passes, she recognizes what a loyal man he is with her children, and he notices how well she gets along with his daughters. Most important is their attraction. Can they deny it?

Book #3 in the Paradise Valley series is a sweet tale focused on love and loss for a woman trying to raise a large family as a single parent. It asks the question, Can there be a second chance for her? Many Amish stories not only give insight into their quiet and peaceful lives but demonstrate they share many of the same trials and tribulations as the non-Amish experience. Giving a great view into another way of life with confidence and faith as strong motivators in this quick-paced novel, the reader is also provided with a few mouth-watering recipes.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good story! A slow burn, friends to more romance that involved two characters who were widowed in-laws to each other. Plus a passel of kids!

Both of these characters had been carrying a lot on their own since the respective deaths of their spouses. Joy, especially, had a lot of worry and concern for her oldest son, who was badly injured and unable to walk. I thought the author did a really good job of showing the various ways that the death of Joy’s husband and their son’s accident had affected the entire family. There was love in their household, yet also a lot of tension. Uriah and his daughters seemed to be managing fairly well in their grief, yet even in their family a few things stuck out as unusual behavior for a couple of Uriah’s daughters.

I enjoyed watching these two begin to care for each other in a romantic way, however, Joy definitely had some issues she needed to work through before she could allow herself to believe that there was a reason to hope for a new love and happiness.

(4.5 stars)

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...

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy by Amy Lillard is a sweet story. One More Time for Joy is the third book in the Paradise Valley series. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. I have enjoyed each book in this charming series. We get to catch up with the characters from the first two stories. I like the characters in this story. They are kind, hardworking individuals. Joy is doing her best to raise her children on her own since the death of her husband. Joy’s oldest son, Johnny was injured in an accident. He is confined to a wheelchair. Unfortunately, Joy’s house is not setup for someone in a wheelchair. Joy’s brother-in-law, Uriah wishes to help. It will make life easier for Johnny and Joy. Uriah just needs to convince Joy. The story centers on family and faith. Joy and Uriah are both hardworking individuals who love their kids. Uriah is a widower with four daughters. There is some repetition of key details especially Joy’s hope that her son will walk again. I like that the author addresses the challenges handicapped individuals face in a home. Uriah is a kind and patient individual. He is going to need that patience when dealing with Joy. The romance is sweet, and it progressed at the right pace. I enjoyed the humor sprinkled throughout the story. Joy learns the importance of trusting God and following His path. One More Time for Joy is an uplifting tale with constricted doorways, delectable bread, an obliging brother-in-law, troubled daughters, an optimistic mother, and a giving God.

[Quickbeam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet story of second chance love after grief. Lillard’s Amish stories have a universal realism and don’t shy away from stress, overwork, loneliness and hardship. This story includes a son with a spinal cord injury which is handled well. You don’t have to worry about too much detail but the aspects of sexuality after a SCI are dealt with sensitively. I can’t say that there was any mystery or surprise but it’s a very fast read with a happy ending.,

[JoAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy is a beautifully written Amish romance. I enjoyed the plot, characters and the setting. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance book. This is my unbiased review.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time For Joy ( Paradise Valley, #3)
by Amy Lillard
One More Time For Joy is the third book in the series Paradise Valley. This is a sweet Amish romance that will touch your heart. This is Joy and Uriah’s story. Both have seen loss in their family. Each is raising four children. I loved the interaction with these eight children as they go through the story. Loss, love, trusting God, family, and second chance at a second chance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well written book by Amy Lillard. Joy lost her husband Rudy and is struggling as a mother to raise her family and run her bakery business. Add to her struggles, her son Johnny B., and not being able to walk after he fell from the barn loft and her son Chris who is wanting to change his name to “Topher”. Rudy’s brother, Uriah, owns a lumberyard and is also a widower, sees Joy struggling. When he offers to build a dawdi house for Johnny B to make it more convenient for him to get around, will Joy be able to put her pride aside to allow him to help? When Uriah decides to have family suppers and game nights with his family and Joy’s family, his daughters fear that their Aunt Joy is trying to set her hooks into their dad. Will the two families be able to mesh together for strength, happiness and hope? Sometimes we have to learn the hard way that often times we need help and that there are some things we cannot do alone.

I highly recommend this book and enjoyed the delightful characters. I would love to see another book emerge from this series.

All words and opinions are my own. I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time For Joy by Amy Lillard
Book 3 of 3: Paradise Valley
In an uplifting inspirational romance that will make your heart smile, award-winning, USA Today bestselling author Amy Lillard’s “Whoopie Pie Widow’s Club,” a group of women who share solace, friendship, and faith in the close-knit community of Paradise Valley, Missouri, rallies around a local widowed baker to help care for her wheelchair bound son. As she works with her brother-in-law to renovate her house to make it more accessible, they find their mutual strength of faith draws them together in unexpected ways.
At the heart of a Missouri Amish community, a circle of caring friends—the Widows’ Club of Paradise Valley—sees each other through life’s storms, in this uplifting series from award-winning author Amy Lillard . . .
Joy Lehman has pressed on faithfully since losing her husband, raising their children and running a thriving bakery alone. Even caring for her oldest son, Johnny—seriously injured after a fall—has not shaken her fierce independence. Johnny will walk again, she’s sure. Until then, a meeting of the Widows’ Club at her home makes it clear that Joy must consider some costly renovations. Her brother-in-law, Uriah, is happy to provide the lumber and the labor—if Joy will accept his help.
Uriah understands family challenges—he’s a widower himself, and father to four daughters. Yet he can see that Joy’s struggle lies deeper than house repairs, in learning to accept an altered future for her son. As Uriah’s daughters begin helping in the bakery, and Joy and Uriah’s bond grows deeper, a new possibility glows bright—the unexpected happiness that lies in embracing one strong, united family, filled with support and love . . .
This is Joy Lehman and children's story.
This is Uriah and his four daughters's story.
Joy Lehman has pressed on faithfully since losing her husband, raising their children and running a thriving bakery alone. Even caring for her oldest son, Johnny—seriously injured after a fall—has not shaken her fierce independence. Johnny will walk again, she’s sure. Until then, a meeting of the Widows’ Club at her home makes it clear that Joy must consider some costly renovations. Her brother-in-law, Uriah, is happy to provide the lumber and the labor—if Joy will accept his help.
Uriah understands family challenges—he’s a widower himself, and father to four daughters. Yet he can see that Joy’s struggle lies deeper than house repairs, in learning to accept an altered future for her son. As Uriah’s daughters begin helping in the bakery, and Joy and Uriah’s bond grows deeper, a new possibility glows bright—the unexpected happiness that lies in embracing one strong, united family, filled with support and love . . .
I recommend reading.
One More Time for Joy by Amy Lillard is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Amy Lillard.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
More books by Amy Lillard
Marry Me, Millie
Amy Lillard
Paradise Valley
The Amish Matchmaker
Amy Lillard
One More Time for Joy
Amy Lillard
Caroline's Secret (Wells Landing, #1)
Courting Emily(Wells Landing, #2)
Lorie's Heart (Wells Landing,3)
Just Plain Sadie (Wells Landing,#4)
and more books.

[Megann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I remember reading about Joy before and how hard her life was after her husband passes. She also has a son who has fallen from the barn hay loft and is a paraplegic. After her husband passed she set up a bakery in the basement of their home, moved her son into the living/dinning room and got a baby monitor so he could get in touch with her if he needed her. She then became an over bearing mother always doting on Johnny B and making it hard for him to come to terms with his disability and have any hope for the future.
Her son Christopher has decided he no longer wants to be named after his father, her children don't seem very happy and she is constantly stressed. While we can't blame her our hearts turn more to sympathy instead of love for what she is doing.
Then it happens, her brother-in-law starts talking to Johnny and the two of them come up with a plan to build a Dawdy Haus for him so that as he grows older he will have his own space but be close to the family.
Joy starts off being very angry at her brother-in-law Uriah because she feels he went behind her back to make this decision without discussing it with her first.
Her brother-in-law is a widower with 4 girls of his own and is having problems with them and their behaviors that he is not sure how to handle.
After one Friday of working hard the families decide that they will have a Friday game and dinner night with paper plates, take out food and relaxed enjoying time together. So you can imagine the complications this arises as he daughters wonder what is going on between them. Jealousies come to a head and each family wants to just have their own space and time with each other until an incident happens that drives Joy and Uriah apart.
This is another wonderful story about how families need each other and need to put others feeling before there own so that GOD's will can be done.
I received this book from Amy as an ARC read and agreed to give my reviews telling the truth on how I feel the book and story was.
This book is a simple read and would be a lovely sit at the beach or in a comfy chair by the fireplace.

[Sandra Broome · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy is a wonderful story about second chances in life and in love. Joy's husband has passed away, and she is left to raise her four children who are all grieving the loss of their father in very different ways. Even though Joy is also still grieving, she has to keep her bakery going while caring for her children, especially her oldest son who is now in a wheelchair after a disastrous accident. Joy's brother-in-law, Uriah, steps in to help even though he and his girls are still missing his wife who died several years ago. As Joy and Uriah work to help each other, they begin to see that second chances may be possible after all.

This story was very entertaining as well as meaningful. The author does an absolutely wonderful job with character development. We get a glimpse into the mindsets and motivations of not only the main characters, Joy and Uriah, but also each of their children. We get to understand and sympathize with each character's struggles and triumphs. It amazes me how well the author brings to life so many different characters and personalities, and how she does it so well. And I love the humorous parts with the children trying to figure out, first, how to keep their parents apart, then how to get them together.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story, as I have every Amy Lillard book that I've read. This was my first book in the Paradise Valley series, and I will definitely be going back to read the previous two stories. I would definitely recommend this book.

This book was provided to me courtesy of Kensington through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always jump at the chance when a favorite author offers me their latest book to read in exchange for my honest review. One More Time for Joy is the third book in the Paradise Valley series and since it is set in the same small town there was some connection to the previous stories.

This is Joy and Uriah's story along with their eight children. They each have four - he has four girls and she has two of each. They each lost their spouses and are in-laws. Joy's husband was Uriah's brother. Their families interact a lot due to a kindness from Uriah and I enjoyed their Friday night dinners and games night. There was some turmoil since the cousins weren't sure why their uncle/father was at Joy's house helping so much but it was their Amish way, or is there more? I liked how each of them was a good influence on their nieces and/or nephews since they could add a new perspective - that of the mom or dad who wasn't in their lives and was missed.

The story has their businesses along with others sprinkled throughout. There is also hard work, lots of food, working together, heartache, joy, their beliefs, memories, reminisces, and a little romance. There was a good flow to the story and some positive outcomes on various fronts. There was closure and a happily ever after that I would have liked to go on a little longer. Of course the author may be planning for us to meet up with them all again in Paradise Valley. I enjoyed the recipes in the back of the book and will definitely give at least one of them a try.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each family needs the other more than they know...

If there's one thing that I love about Amy Lillard's Amish fiction it's that her characters all come across as real people. They are not all cookie cutter perfection in looks or personality – and in the Paradise Valley series the heroines and heroes come in a variety of ages. In short, they are relatable. As expected, One More Time For Joy featured everything that I've come to enjoy in this series.

I love how Amy Lillard focuses more on her characters – with all of their quirks and foibles – and how they grow and learn in their day to day lives. The Amish world isn't always simplistic whoopie pies and and cheery handmade quilts. Nope, the heroine and hero of One More Time For Joy are both single parents – with several kids ranging from little to teens – trying to balance home and work in the businesses that they own. And then, there's Johnny. His world has been turned upside down twice and his mother seems to be having as difficult a time coming to terms with it as he is.

This third Paradise Valley novel was definitely on the heart-tugging side. A person can't help feeling involved in the lives of the two branches of the Lehman family and wanting the best for them. So, overall One More Time For Joy was a good read. I am definitely looking forward to seeing where Amy Lillard will take her residents of Paradise Valley in the next book...

(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Brandi Govia · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy, by Amy Lillard

One More Time for Joy is the 3rd book in The Paradise Valley Series and just as amazing as the first two, Marry Me, Millie and The Amish Matchmaker.

This story touched me closely as my husband and I have experienced some of the same heartaches with our blended family of 9. One More Time for Joy follows the families of widowers Uriah Lehman and Joy Lehman (in-laws by marriage) and their 8 children.

One more Time for Joy is full of faith, family and love. The characters are sincere and relatable. The story is very well-written, well-paced and touching. This is book #3 in the series and the author does well bringing past characters to this book by gracefully filling in the blanks allowing this book to easily be a stand-alone without being lost or confused. But I recommend reading books one and two first…They’re just so good. 😊 I sure do hope there are more to come in this series.

Amy Lillard once again has out done herself. Give this lovely Amish/Christian Romance a read, you will not be disappointed.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

I received a complimentary ARC from the author and publisher without any obligation. This honest review and recommendation are my own.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy Lehman has known the joy of finding someone that you want to spend your entire life with, but she's also experienced the pain and grief of losing that person to death. She's managed to endure, she has a successful bakery, and she's providing for her children. There are, however, many challenges associated with keeping a household and caring for a disabled son. Would she be willing to accept help from her widowed brother-in-law? Could she give up being an independent woman?

Author Amy Lillard poignantly captures the conflicting emotions of both Joy and Uriah as they enter this new phase in their lives. They could have happiness together if she'd only bend a little! Why, even their children think it's a good idea and there are lots of fun moments as they work to get their parents together.

This is a heartwarming story of mature love, second chances, and the joy that comes from allowing God's Plan to work in our lives. One More Time for Joy is delightful Amish fiction!

I received an advanced reader copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My full review can be seen at https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy by Amy Lillard is the third book in The Paradise Valley Series
This is a wonderful story about a great love, second chances and the ability to look past heartbreak to grasp that love even when you’re sure your heart will break to grab ahold, but God see’s that which we can’t and Amy Lillard shows us in this well created storyline that a deep love of a family can also bring us all that love.
Joy Lehman’s, and Uriah Lehman’s life story will pull at your heartstrings, their children will prove that the love they feel for each other and their extended family can at times be so confusing and yet wonderful at the same time.
What I loved about this story is that it shines like on the fact that even when your faced with the most devastating news as young Johnny B was it’s possible to have the life you once thought you could even when it may be a varied form of that life, you alter your perspective and move forward to obtain that it. I have really liked every one of this authors books and this one is no exception, I was gifted a copy for my honest opinion and I can say I know you all will be in for a great read. I look forward to see more in this series.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every book in this series just gets better and better. Joy is struggling with raising her children alone. Her oldest is in a wheelchair and the house just isn't accessible to him. Despite the doctor's predictions that he will remain wheelchair-bound, Joy is convinced he will walk in time.

Uriah, her brother-in-law steps in to help and build an accessible home. His daughters even start helping out as well. Uriah begins to have feelings for Joy but Joy doesn't seem to return them.

The kinner decide to take matters into their own hands and what ensues is a bit of chaos, comedy and maybe a second chance at love. With a great storyline and plot twists this was a great book in an already great series.

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

[C Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Amy Lillard and Kensington Books, Zebra for allowing me to read an advance copy of One More Time for Joy by Amy Lillard. This book will be released March 28, 2023.

Joy Lehman had been through so much since her husband’s death and her oldest son’s paralyzing fall. She has worked very hard to gain her independence by opening a profitable bakery.

Uriah Lehman, Joy’s brother-in-law, understands his brother’s family is struggling because he too struggles being a single parent of four girls. He offers to build a bedroom addition to the house for Johnny B to guarantee his own space and privacy and will allow Johnny to be more independent. Joy reluctantly agreed, but when the addition turns into a dawdihaus, Joy is very unsure of the whole process.

As Uriah and Joy work together on this project, a great plot is developed and the realistic characters and storyline weave and interesting tale.

This is definitely another 5 star addition to you Amy Lillard collection.

All views are my own, and I was not required to give a positive review.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was good. It reminded me too much of the movie Yours, Mine and Ours.
This book has all the feel goods that you could want in a book.
I love a good Amy Lillard book and I especially loved this one.
Sometimes though faith isn't the only thing you need. I loved the love and support of this family and after awhile I felt like I was a part of it. I've always wondered what a big family might feel like and this wonderful book did that for me. Thank you Ms. Lillard!
Your writing is superb as always.and I'm never disappointed in her books.
I thought this author has done a great job with the subject of changes. Changes are hard for some but with the Lord's will, timing and help it can happen. God does answer our prayers. Just not the way we think it should go.
5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a must read. Joy is a widow with four children, and Uriah, her late husband's brother, is a widower with four children as well. Joy's son, Johnny B, recently fell and is now paralyzed and wheelchair bound. She's struggling to manage being a mom, running a bakery in the basement of her house, and now dealing with her son's issues. Uriah to the rescue! He sees that Johnny B needs more room and builds a dawdihaus for him. This leads to Uriah being at Joy's house on a regular basis. One thing leads to another, and love happens. Along the way they each help the other's children with issues. But Joy doesn't want to let go her her hard-earned independence. I enjoyed this book more than most because as an older reader (53) a lot of romance books just don't appeal to me anymore. The characters in One More Time for Joy were closer to my age, and had life experiences I could relate to.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh how I loved this read! We are back in Paradise Valley, and yes, this can be read alone, there are some mentions of past books!

This is Joy and Uriah Lehman's story, they are related to one another by Joy's deceased husband, Uriah's brother. Joy is now supporting her family by running a successful bakery, but she sure has a lot of life's challenges.

This is a story of families, both dealing with the loss of a mother/father, and the blooming relationship of the survivors, but, there are those who are against this and we journey to see if there can be a uniting of these families.

Joy is such a strong parent, she found a way to survive and she is still hoping her son will overcome what the Doctors say is not possible. This is a hard story to leave, I wanted to continue in the lives of these people I had come to care about.

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

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy is an engaging Amish romance novel by Amy Lillard. I enjoyed watching Joy, a young widow with a disabled son, and her widower, brother-in-law, Uriah's journey to second chance love. Joy's reluctance to keep her independence and not remarry brings considerable romantic tension to the story. Even though the book is a part of the Paradise Valley series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone story. It is interesting to see characters from the first two books but the author does a good job filling in back stories so the reader is not left with a lot of questions or confusion. The reaction of Joy's and Uriah's children regarding their parent's relationship is great!! The community of friends and the Widow's Club, humor, and a thread of faith all kept my interest high. I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

One More Time for Joy is Lillard's third book in the Paradise Valley series. Joy Lehman's husband has died, and her oldest son, Johnny, has suffered a spinal injury from a fall from the hayloft and is unable to walk. Now wheelchair-bound, their house is not equipped for him to easily move about. Enter Uriah, Joy's brother-in-law, who is a widower. He owns the local lumberyard and is more than willing to provide the materials and labor to widen doorways and add on a dawdi haus for Johnny. Will joy allow Uriah to help her? And what kind of relationship might develop between the two of them?

I enjoyed this Amish fiction read. It did seem that there was some repetition in the story to me, but overall, it was an enjoyable read with an emphasis on forgiveness. .

Thanks to #NetGalley and #Kensingtonbooks for an ARC e-copy of this book.

All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.

#OneMoreTimeForJoy #NetGalley

[Connie Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

One More Time for Amy Lillard - she has a great writing gift - her characters are not just characters in a book they become Friends. Her setting is not just a location written on a page they become real places to the reader. One More time for Joy is a delightful story of lost love and grief and family tragedy. One More Time guides the reader through loss of a beloved family members, a family tragedy, a journey of independence for Joy, her children, Uriah, his children, and a blending of love, dependence, and dealing with grief. I have been given the privilege of reading an Advance Reader Copy of this book by Ms. Lillard and I am truly blessed and honored to be selected to give my honest opinion and review. It is my opinion if you read for the pleasure of reading then you MUST visit Paradise Valley and meet Joy, Uriah and their children, even though this is book #3 it would be a wonderful stand alone read. Happy Reading.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy is a widow, raising her four children, running her own bakery and is stubbornly independent. Uriah is a widower, raising his four daughters and also Joy’s brother in law. Joy’s son Johnny has been injured and is wheelchair bound. Uriah is trying to help his nephew by building on to Joy’s house. He feels like Johnny is needing more freedom to help himself and not depend so much on others.
All the cousins from both sides fear that their parents are getting too close. They make plans to discourage any ideas of marriage.
I loved the way the story unfolded and how the characters built on each other. I enjoyed getting to know them all and I learned so much from them. An added bonus is the recipes in the back of the book from Joy’s bakery and her nightly dinners. Yummy!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.