#newbook – Page 3 – Simple Harvest Reads

Side by Side Review

Congratulations to Kathryn, the winner of a copy of Side by Side. Enjoy!

Side by Side by Jana Kelley is a 221 page novel in the Contemporary Missionary Fiction genre. It is published by New Hope Publishers and was released on November 17, 2014. To purchase your copy through Amazon, please click here or through Barnes and Noble, click here.

Overview

In the dusty, Islamic country of Sudan, Mia’s life collides with that of another young woman.

A young Christian American mother, Mia finds more than one dark secret on the streets of Khartoum. She finds Halimah, a young, upper-class Arab student with a bright future in her family’s business whose risky and secretive decision has put her life in danger. What happens when the path of young mother intersects with that of a spunky Sudanese student? God transforms them both . . . forever.

Part of New Hope® Publishers’ contemporary missional fiction line, Side by Side opens the reader’s eyes to the life of Muslims in Sudan as well as some of the struggles that Christians face when living under Islamic law. The reader will be inspired to pray for those who are persecuted for their faith as well as pray for the salvation of those who persecute.

My Two Cents

Side by Side is a powerful and life-changing novel. Jana draws from her experiences as a missionary to weave real-life events to cast a story that will leave the reader changed forever.

Each day we go about our lives without a second thought to the blessings we have: food, housing, opportunities, choices, and most of all freedoms. Freedom to speak our minds, have choices over our bodies, and to share our love of Christ. Side by Side pulls us into a different world where Christians risk their lives everyday to stand up for Jesus. It also conveys the sacrifices missionaries and their families make on a daily basis to share the Gospel and minister to others. Side by Side gives the reader an appreciation for the blessings they have and will compel the reader to evaluate what they are willing to sacrifice for Christ.

Jana’s characters are open and honest in her novel. The reader can see the struggles of selfishness, pride, and frustration. I liked that those feelings are included and not glossed over. This makes her characters real and believable; it also encourages us to empathize with the characters. Jana additionally shows the plight of women in Muslim countries by including difficult topics such as female circumcision with tact. Her knowledge of the culture and her love of the Muslim people shine through in her characters.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. This book will change your worldview, give you first hand knowledge of the dangers of missionary work and give you information on how to pray for missionaries. Side by Side is a must read for all Christians who would like to know how better to minister to Muslims.

Thank you to the Litfuse Chicks and New Hope Publishers for a free copy of Side by Side in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Jana Kelley is a Texan who hardly ever lives in Texas. Raised in Southeast Asia, Jana developed a love for cross-cultural living early in life. Her love for writing came soon after. Jana returned to Texas to attend college. She and her husband married a month after she graduated and by their second anniversary, they were living in a remote African town. Together with her husband and three boys, Jana enjoys travel and overseas living. After thirteen years in Africa and the Middle East, Jana and her family moved to Southeast Asia where they currently live.

Find Jana online: website, Facebook, Twitter

Giveaway

Enter to win a copy of Jana Kelley’s Side by Side by clicking “Entry-Form” below.

Entry -Form

The last date to enter is May 7th, 2015

The Inn at Ocean’s Edge Review

The Inn at Ocean’s Edge by Colleen Coble is a 336 page novel in the Christian suspense genre. It is published by Thomas Nelson and was released on April 14, 2015. To purchase your copy from Amazon, click here or from Barnes and Noble, click here.

Overview

Claire’s visit to a luxury hotel in Maine awakens repressed memories, threatening all she holds dear.

In 1989, Claire Dellamare disappeared from her own fourth birthday party at the Hotel Tourmaline on the island of Folly Shoals, Maine. She showed up a year later at the same hotel, with a note pinned to her dress but no explanation. Nobody knows where Claire spent that year—and until now, Claire didn’t even know she had ever been missing.

But when Claire returns to the Hotel Tourmaline for a business meeting with her CEO father, disturbing memories begin to surface . . . despite her parents’ best efforts to keep them forgotten.

Luke Rocco lost his mother under equally mysterious circumstances—at the same time Claire disappeared. After a chance encounter reveals the unlikely link between them, Claire and Luke set out together to uncover the truth about what happened that fateful year.

With flashbacks swimming just beneath her consciousness and a murderer threatening her safety, Claire’s very life depends on unscrambling her past . . . even if her family refuses to acknowledge it. Someone-maybe everyone-is hiding something from Claire Dellamare, and it will cost her everything to drag the truth out into the light.

My Two Cents

The Inn at Ocean’s Edge is an edge of your seat thriller that keeps you guessing until the author wants you to know. The plot is edgy and full of twists and turns that keeps this novel moving at a fast pace. From the very first chapter, the reader understands that something is amiss and with each chapter, a new layer is added that makes the reader want to keep reading until the end.

Coble’s characters are varied and interesting. She uses them to make you rethink what constitutes a family. Coble also creates tension between the characters to make the plotline interesting and suspenseful. The only drawback to this novel is keeping track of the different settings and where they are in relation to each other. I found myself wishing I had a map of the area to look at as I followed the plotline.

If you like suspenseful thrillers, you will love The Inn at Ocean’s Edge. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Colleen Coble has written several romantic suspense novels including Tidewater Inn, Rosemary Cottage, and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series. Visit her website at www.colleencoble.com Twitter: @colleencoble Facebook: colleencoblebooks.

Thank you to Netgalley and Litfuse Publicity Group for the complimentary copy of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge in exchange for my honest review. All opinions in this review are my own and no monetary compensation was given for them.

Celebrate the release of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge by entering to win a Kindle Fire and RSVPing to her May 5th author chat party!

One grand prize winner will receive:

A Kindle Fire
A copy of A Heart’s Disguise
A copy of A Heart’s Obsession
A copy of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced May 8th on Colleen’s website. Plus be sure to clear your calendar on the evening of May 5th because Colleen is hosting an author chat party on Facebook to celebrate her A Journey of the Heart series and the release of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge! RSVP here!

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on May 5th!

Every Bride Needs A Groom Review

Congratulations to Ellen who won the giveaway for Every Bride Needs a Groom.

Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson is a 368 page novel in the Christian romance genre. Published by Revell, it is the first novel in the Brides With Style collection and was released on April 21, 2015. To purchase your copy of Every Bride Needs a Groom from Amazon, click here or from Barnes and Noble, click here.

Overview

Small-town girl Katie Fisher is busy planning her fairy-tale wedding. Sure, her boyfriend hasn’t managed to pop the question just yet, but that doesn’t mean she shouldn’t enter a contest in Texas Bride magazine to win the dress of her dreams, right? Anyway, she’s sure he’ll be getting down on one knee any time now. And a one-of-a-kind designer dress doesn’t just fall out of the sky right when you need it.

But when Katie’s boyfriend takes a job in another town and breaks up with her–on the very same day she wins her dream dress–her world is turned upside down. Dare she go to Dallas to claim her prize? And will the hunky pro basketball player who runs the beyond-swanky bridal shop–yeah, you read that right–discover her humiliating secret if she does?

My Two Cents

Every Bride Needs A Groom is a fun and charming book that is a fast paced read. Cute titles for each chapter and a quote from a famous person sets the theme for each chapter. The southern nuances add to the charm and makes the storyline believable.

The characters are quite the characters which makes the book an interesting read. The family dynamic casts tension throughout the book but reminds you of southern values where love and family are cherished. Thompson weaves humor into the story as well and some places had me laughing until I cried.

Every Bride Needs A Groom makes you yearn for small town life where you can meet at the local Dairy Queen on Friday nights. If you enjoy reading Christian romance, you will love this sweet story. I rate this book a 5 out of 5.

About the Author

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter. An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner. She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series, the Backstage Pass series, and the Weddings by Design series. She lives in Texas. Learn more at www.janiceathompson.com.

Thank you to Revell Publishers for a free copy of Every Bride Needs a Groom in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was given and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Giveaway

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Janice Thompson’s new book Every Bride Needs A Groom by clicking “Entry From” below.

Entry -Form

Contest ends Sunday, May 3 at midnight PST.

To Win Her Favor Review

To Win Her Favor is a 384 page novel in the Christian historical fiction genre. It was published by Zondervan and will be released on May 12, 2015. To pre-order your copy, click here.

Overview

A gifted rider in a world where ladies never race, Maggie Linden is determined that her horse will become a champion. But the one man who could help her has vowed to stay away from thoroughbred racing forever.

An Irishman far from home, Cullen McGrath left a once prosperous life in England because of a horse racing scandal that nearly ruined him. He’s come to Nashville for a fresh start, hoping to buy land and begin farming, all while determined to stay as far away from thoroughbred racing as possible. But starting over proves harder than he’d wagered, especially when Maggie Linden’s father makes him an offer he shouldn’t accept yet cannot possibly refuse.

Maggie is certain that her mare, Bourbon Belle, can take the top purse in the inaugural Peyton Stakes, the richest race ever run in America. Maggie only needs the chance to prove it. To give her that chance—and to save Linden Downs from being sold to the highest bidder—Maggie’s father, aging, yet wily as ever, makes a barter. His agreement includes one tiny, troublesome detail—Maggie must marry a man she’s never met. A man she never would have chosen for herself.

My Two Cents

To Win Her Favor is a lovely fast paced novel that has its setting right after the Civil War. The plotline pulled me in right away and Alexander kept me engaged with suspense, romance, and a bit mystery. The research completed for this book is thorough, accurate, and gives the story authenticity. The novel includes difficult historical topics both truthfully and respectfully. The reader can gain an understanding of how life could be during this time.

The characters of To Win Her Favor have personality, grit and a realness that makes you empathize with them even though we do not live in the same time period. For example, Maggie has worked hard for her dream and it would break her heart to lose it all so she makes a desperate decision. I think many of us can relate to how Maggie feels. Alexander does an incredible job of making a story authentic to the time period, yet relatable to today.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. This amazing romance will sweep you back in time and leave you wanting more when you are finished.

About the Author

Tamera Alexander is a best-selling novelist whose deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose resonate with readers. Having lived in Colorado for seventeen years, she and her husband now make their home in Nashville, Tennessee, along with their two adult children who live near by. And don’t forget Jack, their precious—and precocious—silky terrier.

Find Tamera online: website, Facebook, Twitter

A big thank you to Litfuse chicks and Zondervan for a free copy of To Win Her Favor in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation has been received and all opinions expressed are my own.

Celebrate the release of To Win Her Favor with a Kindle Fire and book giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

A Kindle Fire HD 6
A copy of To Win Her Favor

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 10th. Winner will be announced May 11th on Tamera’s blog. Plus stay tuned for more opportunities to win after May 11 with a special Pinterest contest—more details coming soon!

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

The Legacy Review

Congratulations to Danielle, the winner of my giveaway of The Legacy!

The Legacy written by Dan Walsh and Gary Smalley is a 336 page novel in the Christian Fiction genre. It was published by Revell on April 7, 2015. To order your copy from Amazon, click here or from Barnes and Noble, click here.

Overview

Doug Anderson has been drifting slowly but steadily away from both his family and his faith. His parents, along with Christina, a young woman taken into the family during a crisis pregnancy, have been trying to reach him before he falls too far. But sometimes you have to hit bottom before you’re ready to grow up and give your life over to God. Christina’s feelings for Doug have been growing, even though he writes her off as not worth his time. Will Doug’s own crisis finally clear his vision and help him focus on what he has right in front of him?

My Two Cents

The Legacy is book four in The Restoration Series. Although it is the first book I have read in the series, I was able to follow the storyline with ease. Jim and Marilyn have had a rocky marriage but have worked through their difficulties and have sought restoration with both each other and their adult children. Unfortunately, their youngest son, Doug, has drifted away from the family, his values and the Lord. The story was very encouraging, reminding us that we need to trust the Lord when things are beyond our control. The Legacy focused on the story of The Prodigal Son from the Bible and how we can apply that story to our lives, especially those of us who have adult children.

This is not the type of story I would usually pick out to read, but I am very glad I read it. Although the book was slow in some places, I finished the book feeling encouraged. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

About the Authors

Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of many books, including The Dance, The Promise, and The Desire with Gary Smalley. He has won three Carol Awards, and three of his novels were finalists for RT Book Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year. He lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he’s busy researching and writing his next novel.

Gary Smalley is one of the country’s best-known authors and speakers on family relationships and has appeared on national television programs such as Oprah, Larry King Live, and TODAY, as well as numerous national radio programs. He is the bestselling and award-winning author or coauthor of many books, including the Baxter Family Redemption series with Karen Kingsbury. Gary and his wife, Norma, have been married for 50 years and live in Missouri.

Thank you to Revell Publishers for a free copy of The Legacy in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was received for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Giveaway

To enter win a copy of The Legacy, click “entry-form” below:

Entry -Form

Giveaway ends Sunday, April 26 at 11:59 pm.

The Art of Losing Yourself Review

Congratulations to Patty! She is the winner of The Art of Losing Yourself giveaway! Enjoy Patty!

The Art of Losing Yourself by Katie Ganshert is a 320 page book in the Christian fiction genre. It is published by WaterBrook Press and released on April 21, 2015. To purchase your copy from Amazon, click here or to order at Barnes & Noble, click here.

Overview

Every morning, Carmen Hart pastes on her made-for-TV smile and broadcasts the weather. She’s the Florida panhandle’s favorite meteorologist, married to everyone’s favorite high school football coach. They’re the perfect-looking couple, live in a nice house, and attend church on Sundays. From the outside, she’s a woman who has it all together. But on the inside, Carmen Hart struggles with doubt. She wonders if she made a mistake when she married her husband. She wonders if God is as powerful as she once believed. Sometimes she wonders if He exists at all. After years of secret losses and empty arms, she’s not so sure anymore.

Until Carmen’s sister—seventeen year old runaway, Gracie Fisher—steps in and changes everything. Gracie is caught squatting at a boarded-up motel that belongs to Carmen’s aunt, and their mother is off on another one of her benders, which means Carmen has no other option but to take Gracie in. Is it possible for God to use a broken teenager and an abandoned motel to bring a woman’s faith and marriage back to life? Can two half-sisters make each other whole?

My Two Cents

The Art of Losing Yourself is a well written novel that will challenge you to change yourself and look at your problems from a different perspective. The novel deals with difficult issues such as alcoholism, abuse, and infertility. Ganshert shows how God can bring healing. Also how love and patience can bring people together.

The characters in The Art of Losing Yourself are raw and real. The reader can feel their emotions as well as their pain and it tugs on your heartstrings. They sweep you into a whirlwind that makes you want to keep turning the page to see what happens next. These characters deal with real-life issues that many struggle with on a daily basis, and show you how God’s love can shine through. Although there are weighty issues in The Art of Losing Yourself, the humor sprinkled throughout the novel keeps it from being a difficult read.

Ganshert unfolds the plot by showing the readers the story, not by telling the readers the story. For example, one of my favorite quotes, “….he didn’t seem to notice that I was a lone marshmallow in a sea of hot chocolate” (184) paints an incredible mental picture and gives authenticity to the novel because the reader can picture a teenager making this comment. We all have felt out of place at sometime in our lives – we are uncomfortable and feel as if everyone is watching us. Can’t you picture yourself as a marshmallow floating on top in these situations? I know I can. The imagery Ganshert employs in her novel paints some beautiful pictures through the pain of the characters.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. This is a book that will make you reflect on how you handle life’s problems and remind you that we cannot appreciate the good times without going through the valleys as well..

About the Author

Award-winning author, Katie Ganshert, graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for several years before staying home to write full-time. She was born and raised in the Midwest, where she lives with her husband, their young son, and their goofy black lab, Bubba. When she’s not busy writing or playing or reading or consuming chocolate, she is dreaming about the day her Congolese daughter can finally come home. You can learn more about Katie and her books by visiting her website at www.katieganshert.com.

A huge thank you to Katie Ganshert for a free copy of her book in exchange for my honest review. No money compensation was received for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Giveaway

To celebrate the release of Katie Ganshert’s new release, I am having a giveaway! Yay! One winner will receive a copy of The Art of Losing yourself.

To enter the giveaway, click “Entry-Form” below:

Entry -Form

Giveaway ends at Midnight on Thursday, April 23.

The Creole Princess Book Review

The Creole Princess by Beth White is a 352 page novel in the historical Christian fiction genre. It is published by Revell on April 7, 2015. Click here to purchase from Amazon or here to purchase from Barnes and Noble.

Overview

All along the eastern seaboard, the American struggle for independence rages. In the British-held southern port of Mobile, Alabama, the conflict brewing is quieter–though no less deadly. The lovely Frenchwoman Lyse Lanier is best friends with the daughter of the British commander. Rafael Gonzalez is a charming young Spanish merchant with a secret mission and a shipment of gold to support General Washington. As their paths cross and their destinies become increasingly tangled, Lyse and Rafael must decide where their true loyalties lie–and somehow keep Lyse’s family from being executed as traitors to the British Crown.

My Two Cents

The Creole Princess is a fast-paced novel that keeps you on your toes. It is very apparent that White did a lot of research on both the history of the time period as well as the setting in which the novel takes place; this shines through in her writing. There are several cultures represented throughout The Creole Princess and the nuances added to her characters from each culture make them very authentic. Added to all of this, the history represented is not very well known so you learn something new.

There are many solid characters in The Creole Princess; some you love and some you hate. They come to life and give you a small glimpse of what it would have been like to live during this time period. White excels at creating tension through her characters and their situations which makes it hard to put her book down. You can not wait to see what happens next. The main protagonist, Lyse, illuminates love, grace and forgiveness. She makes you want to be a better daughter, sibling, wife, and friend.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It will definitely be one I will read again!

About the Author

Beth White is the award-winning author of The Pelican Bride. A native Mississippian, she teaches music at an inner-city high school in historic Mobile, Alabama. Her novels have won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Carol Award, the RT Book Club Reviewers’ Choice Award, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. Learn more at www.bethwhite.net.

Thank you to Revell and Beth White for a free copy of The Creole Princess in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was received for my opinions expressed in this review.

An Empty Cup Review

Congratulations to Trixie O. The winner of The Matchmaker by Sarah Price. Thank you to all who entered!

An Empty Cup by Sarah Price is a 252 page novel in the Amish fiction genre. It is published by Waterfall Press and will be released on April 14, 2015. To purchase your copy from Amazon, click here or Barnes and Noble, click here.

Overview

Amish woman Rosanna Zook lost her self-confidence within the confines of a loveless and abusive marriage. In the years spent quietly dealing with her burdens and dutifully caring for others, she forgot her sense of self and ability to feel. But after her first husband’s untimely death, she gets a second chance with Reuben Troyer, a godly man who welcomes Rosanna and her two children into his life.

Despite the love and respect she finds in her new marriage, Rosanna soon learns that juggling the demands of her family and church community is more than she can handle. When Rosanna becomes ill, she is forced to confront a hard truth: one empty cup cannot fill another. For a woman who has spent her life giving, will Rosanna finally be able to let go and receive?

My Two Cents

Many novels bring enjoyment to their readers, not all do this and bring life applicable lessons with them. An Empty Cup deals with deep and real issues; many of which we as women experience on a daily basis. There are several teachable moments where we learn that even good things can be made into negative when we do not keep our lives balanced. This affects not only ourselves but others around us as well.

Price’s characters and storyline are very realistic. It is easy to feel empathy for Rosanna, the main protagonist, and see yourself through her. Even though An Empty Cup deals with difficult issues, it is not a struggle to read. The issues are handled with wisdom and provide tension to the story. As I finished this book, I found myself reflecting on Rosanna’s struggles and giving my life a good hard look.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It’s one that the reader will be able to read again and find encouragement.

About the Author

Sarah’s family settled in Pennsylvania when the first wave of Mennonites emigrated from Europe in 1705. She divides her time between her home outside of New York City and an Amish farm in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania where she writes and reconnects with her Amish friends and Mennonite family. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website at sarahpriceauthor.wordpress.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.

A special thank you to Sarah Price for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

Giveaway
Enter for your chance to win a copy of The Matchmaker by Sarah Price by clicking on “Entry-Form” below:

Entry -Form

Double Cross Review

Double Cross by DiAnn Mills is a 400 page novel in the mystery suspense genre. It is published by Tyndale House Publishers on March 20, 2015. To purchase your copy through Amazon, click here or from Barnes and Noble, click here.

Overview

FBI Agent Laurel Evertson’s investigation into a scam targeting the elderly takes an unexpected twist when key evidence leads her to Morton Wilmington, a felon she arrested five years ago on her first undercover assignment. That case has haunted her since, and though she’s vowed to forget Wilmington—and what she sacrificed to put him away—he is now her best lead.

Houston Police Officer Daniel Hilton fears his grandparents may be the scammer’s next targets, and he’ll do anything to protect his family—even force interagency cooperation. But he’s quickly drawn to Laurel’s empathy and zeal and agrees to follow her lead . . . even if it means teaming up with a felon.

As the unlikely trio uncovers evidence suggesting the scam is more extensive and deadly than they imagined, both Laurel and Daniel find themselves in the crosshairs of a killer. Together they must decide if they can trust Wilmington’s claims of redemption, or if he’s leading them straight into a double cross.

My Two Cents

Double Cross is the second book in the FBI: Houston series but it can be read as a stand alone. It was easy to read and to follow. The intrigue made the novel fast paced once the scene was set and I wanted to keep reading to find out what happens next.

This is my first experience with DiAnn Mills novels and it was not a disappointment. Although the book was slow at the beginning, Mills’ characters are well written with flaws that finds the reader feeling empathy for them. Mills uses her characters to show the reader how we can overcome our flaws with the help of our faith which was highly encouraging. I enjoyed how she interwove romance into the novel which made it very believable and not sappy. The relationship Daniel has with his grandparents is very sweet and endearing.

The research behind Double Cross is evident to the reader and it makes the plotline credible. Mills keeps you guessing who is on the side of the good and on the side of the bad and if everyone will make it out safe throughout the novel. I was not able to guess the truth until the author wanted it revealed.

I give this book 4 out 5 stars. If you enjoy reading suspense mysteries with a side of romance, you will enjoy DiAnn Mills’ Double Cross.

About the Author

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.

Thank you to Tyndale House Publishers for a free copy of Double Cross in exchange for my honest review. No compensation has been received for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.

An Amish Spring

An Amish Spring by Sarah Price is a 72 page novella in the Amish Christian fiction genre published by Amazon Kindle Services on March 21, 2015. Click here to order your copy.

Overview

It’s springtime in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Drusilla Riehl has just turned eighteen. While she’s attended youth gatherings and singings in the past, something feels just a little bit different now. As the eldest child, she has a lot of responsibilities, especially with her aging grandparents living in the smaller house attached to the Riehls’ farmhouse and with Drusilla’s mother expecting a baby soon. Follow the story of this young Amish woman as she comes of age in the springtime of her life, balancing her commitment to faith, family, and friends.

The Amish Seasons Series, a four-part series, follows the story of Drusilla Riehl as she passes through the seasons of life. The first of a four book series, An Amish Spring introduces readers to the Riehl family and their Amish community, both Amish and Mennonite, and will be sure to delight as you learn more about the Amish religion and culture from Sarah Price, one of the leading bestselling authors of Amish Christian fiction who bases her stories and books on authentic experience growing up Mennonite and living among the Amish.

My Two Cents

As the cold of winter is passing, we see spring bloom in the life of Drusilla (Dru) Riehl. Dru is a sweet, caring girl who genuinely cares for her family as well as others. An Amish Spring follows her life through the spring of the year. We get a glimpse of authentic Amish life through events, such as a barn raising, and we see how a young girl starts thinking differently about life through them.

An Amish Spring is a truly delightful story with real characters. Price’s knowledge of the Amish life shines through and gives the story credibility. Her descriptions of the setting and characters bring the story to life in the mind of the reader.

The four part series reminds me of the serials done in the Victorian Age by great authors like Charles Dickens. Best of all, the series celebrates the start of each new season! I am looking forward to watching Dru through each one.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a book not to miss!

About the Author

A special thank you to Sarah Price for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.