| Title | : | A Love for Leah (Amish of Pontotoc, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 352 |
| Publication | : | Published July 31, 2018 |
Independent-minded Leah Gingerich has always been outspoken. And even though she is now a progressive Mennonite, she's rediscovering the joys of family traditions back in her Amish hometown. Yet she can't help but clash with her handsome new Amish neighbor, Jamie Stoltzfus. He's too hard-headed and old-line to see that his traumatized young nephew, Peter, needs faith and help—or that a woman who stands up to him may be what he needs to heal . . .
After a devastating tragedy, Jamie moved to Pontotoc with his nephew for a fresh start. Holding fast to his beliefs is the only way he feels he can aid Peter—and himself. But somehow, Leah's freethinking ways and feisty challenges are sparking a happiness he's never felt before. Soon, Jamie can't imagine his life without her. But are their differences ultimately too great to overcome—or can love bridge their way to a future together?
A Love for Leah (Amish of Pontotoc, #2) Reviews
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I usually enjoy reaching Amish fiction. This was the second one of the series entitled 'Amish of Pontotoc'. They inspire romance, faith, and a positive message. Most of the characters carried over from the first book, but this one focuses on Lea, Jamie, and Peter. I definitely enjoyed this book better than the first one.
Drebbles excerpt: "Although Leah Gingrich has left the Amish faith and become Mennonite, she has remained close to her Amish family and is in fact helping raise her sister Hannah’s son Brandon. When a new neighbor moves in near her parents’ house, for some reason Leah immediately clashes with him even though they have a lot in common - Jamie Stolzfus is also raising his nephew. However, as much as they clash, the two are soon drawn to each other. But how can their love be if he is Amish and she is Mennonite?"
For the Amish of Pontotoc, Mississippi, faith can open minds—and hearts—to create surprising bonds for a lifetime . . .
In most books, the old Amish church leaders preached part of the services in high German, which most members didn't even understand and they discouraged members from reading the Bible, much less memorizing verses. Yet, in this series this family spouts off scriptures at whim. They don't offend me. It just makes me wonder if the author researched this genre thoroughly.
Independent-minded Leah Gingerich has always been outspoken. And even though she is now a progressive Mennonite, she's rediscovering the joys of family traditions back in her Amish hometown. Yet she can't help but clash with her handsome new Amish neighbor, Jamie Stoltzfus. He's too hard-headed and old-line to see that his traumatized young nephew, Peter, needs faith and help—or that a woman who stands up to him maybe what he needs to heal . . .
This story revealed how to demonstrate faith in God in all things, even though it appeared that some were beyond their control. Religion was a huge obstacle in their world and it definitely took a toll on the relationship between Leah and Jamie.
After a devastating tragedy, Jamie moved to Pontotoc with his nephew for a fresh start. Holding fast to his beliefs is the only way he feels he can aid Peter—and himself. But somehow, Leah's freethinking ways and feisty challenges are sparking a happiness he's never felt before. Soon, Jamie can't imagine his life without her. But are their differences ultimately too great to overcome—or can love bridge their way to a future together?
This is able to stand alone, is clean and wholesome, and against all odds, it delivers a H.E.A.
This series is currently available through the Amazon Kindle Unlimited program.
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This is the second book in the Amish of Pontotoc series. Amy Lillard really knows how to write a book that keeps my attention. A beautiful inspirational story that has heartbreak in it but before the story ends it becomes heartwarming. Lillard gives us a real sense of the Amish, they like us are not perfect but with faith,hope,prayer and God's wisdom mistakes are forgiven and wrongs are turned around with understanding and compassion. This book gave me a beautiful sense of well being and inspired me to want to do better in life. Readers of Amish fiction will really enjoy this inspiring and hope filled journey.
Pub Date 31 Jul 2018
I received a complimentary copy from the author/ NetGalley through Kensington Books. All opinions expressed are my own. -
I loved the second book in this series, and yes you can read alone, but I enjoyed being back with this family that I have really come to know through the words of the author, Amy Lillard.
The first book was Hannah’s and we continue with parts of her life here, but this story is mainly about her twin Leah. We walk in Leah’s shoes through the eyes of the author, and at time you’re going find your world upside down.
Loved the sparing that goes one between Leah and new comer Amish man Jamie, and you wonder how these two could even be in the same room with each other, but then you meet Peter, a young boy who has suffered so much tragedy in his short life.
This book will keep you page-turning, one very Mennonite and clinging to her new church, and the other set in his Amish ways, how can the two ever get together or should they even try.
A don’t miss book by this talented author.
I received this book through the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review. -
Another amazing book, A Love for Leah, written by Author Amy Lillard. The plot captured my attention immediately with the different struggles happening. I love the characters even though a few were unusual, but the little boy is sweet and fantastic. This book is Book Two in the Amish of Pontotoc series. I'm looking forward to Book Three in this series.
I received a copy from the author, but was not required to review it. This review is one hundred percent my opinion. -
Love for Leah was a beautiful story filled with characters that were dimensional with imperfections but lovable. It was nice to reconnect with the characters and the community in Pontotoc, Mississippi from book one, A Home for Hannah. Amy Lillard’s characters and their lifestyles drew me in from the start. This tale is Leah’s story (Hannah’s twin) and Jamie Stolzfus who recently relocated to Pontotoc with his young nephew, Peter. I appreciated how the Gingerich family reached out to Jamie and Peter. Leah and Jamie initial encounter gave wrong impression to each other, but yet there was an attraction. Leah wanted to ensure she could help Peter but Jamie thought Leah was too worldly with her modern Mennonite church. Jamie was a true Amish man that held tightly to the Ordnung. The true to life struggles of the characters and their personal faith of their culture gave perspective to some of the differences between Amish and Mennonite. The differences between Leah and Jamie increased their frustration with one another but also drew them together with their persistence, focusing on the needs of Peter and the grace of God. There are some unexpected twists and turns and heart break along with seeking redemption and God’s will. Lillard interwove a stronger faith message in this book than some of her other Amish series. Readers of Amish genre will appreciate this latest book by Amy Lillard that can be read as a standalone; however, I highly recommend reading Home for Hannah first.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author without a favorable review being required. I have shared my honest opinion for A Love for Leah. -
A Love For Leah ( Amish of Pontotoc #2 )
By: Amy Lillard
A Love For Leah is book two in Amish of Pontotoc series by Amy Lillard. The author writes another winner and a great read. I love the story and the characters. I was drawn in at the start and did not want to put it down. This is Leah and Jamie’s story. One is Amish and one is Mennonite. There are struggles to overcome in this story. I love reading about the difference between the Amish and the Mennonites. If you love to read a good Amish story then you will love A Love For Leah.
I was given a complimentary ARC copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own. -
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Leah Gingerich has had no trouble making her own decisions. This including staying very close to her family. This could have been very difficult, as she left the Amish faith and became Mennonite, preferring more freedom in her life. One of the things Leah is doing is opening up a second-hand shop. This helps her family in one particular way when it comes to her sister Hannah's son Brandon. Hannah has returned to the Amish faith. However, since Hannah left the Amish years ago, she married and had a teen son,Brandon, and he was raised English.
Leah takes Brandon in while Hannah prepares for baptism and eventual marriage to Aaron Zook. That story is in the first book in this series, A Home for Hannah. Leah is happy in her life, and proves to be just perfect for Brandon. Then she meets Jamie Stoltzfus, a new man in Pontotoc who has arrived with his six-year-old nephew, Peter. The child lost his family in a fire, and has suffered serious injuries. He doesn't speak, and Jamie will do whatever he can to bring joy to Peter's life once again.
Leah senses a connection with Jamie and Peter. Well, with Jamie, they rub each other the wrong way at first. But, Peter is something special. Jamie knows that finding a wife is something he must do, but he is Amish and Leah is not. It doesn't take long for the two to realize that they must deal with their attraction without upsetting the importance of their faiths.
A Love for Leah is another very touching story in the Amish of Pontotoc series. This was another book that I could not put down. How could the impossible ever happen? Amy Lillard wrote a compelling story that really considered faith, prayer and grace. Although this could serve as a standalone, I believe the reader would be robbed if they didn't read the first book prior to this one. The family connection and continuity is very important to get the full effect that this book offers.
I eagerly devoured the third book in the series, A Family for Gracie, right after reading this one. What an incredible series! I look forward to making time to read as much of this author's work as possible. -
Another great read by Amy Lillard. I always look forward to her stories and she never disappoints me.
A wonderful set of new characters and Leah finally gets to tell her story.
I finished this book in two sittings it was that good!!
The only thing I didn't like were Jamie's and Leah's stubborn personalities. Especially where Leah kept saying she's Mennonite and he's Amish. It got on my nerves because I wanted to knock their heads together sooooo bad!!
I believe if two people are attracted to each other and they really and truly care for each other then to me, it shouldn't matter.
Love is strong. Love is faithful. That's my belief.
I still think Brandon is special. I don't know why. He's like any typical teenager. Sort of reminds me of my son. Maybe that's why I"m attached to him. One minute they can be the best kid or kids you ever raised and then mooooood swing!! You never know.
There were many scenes in the book that made me snicker and then laugh outright. I just enjoyed the story for what it was. It's too bad that it had to end so quickly!!
There was a certain place in the book that I cried tho. I sure hate to see a family split up like that.
But, maybe she'll find her way back home. Only the Lord knows.
Thank you Amy for another great story! Please keep writing!! -
This story was great! It is the second book in the Amish of Pontatoc series, yet I think that it could be read as a stand alone novel if desired. I definitely enjoyed returning to this interesting family. The author did a great job of keeping me wondering throughout most of the story as to how she would pull everything together in the end.
I appreciated these main characters and the way the author delved into the differences between the Amish and the Mennonite faiths. It was very interesting to view the two religions through the minds of the main characters, who had both been born and raised Amish.
I liked Jamie and Leah a lot. It was fun to see how they heatedly clashed for much of the first half of the book, revealing feelings that ran deeper than they realized. Jamie’s character was so interesting to read about, as he began to open to new ideas that he at first viewed as too liberal.
This was such a great story and I highly recommend it and book one of the series, A Home for Hannah, to fans of Amish fiction.
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... -
A great story involving life struggles, emotion and physical pain, finding trust again and learning to love. Differences in backgrounds and family life can cause problems, but the way the characters deal with their circumstances is touching and inspiring. I enjoyed this one. I received a copy of this book and this is my personal honest opinion. No review was required.
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I have been a fan of Amy Lillard for quite some time now, but this is by far the best book I have ever read by her. It is a lengthy book, but I devoured it. I read it in two sittings, and that was only because the first one was during my lunch break. I loved everything about the book - the characters, the setting, the arguing, and the fact that not all the characters were Amish (gasp!). Some were Mennonite, some were Englisch, and some were making their way back to the Amish. Even among their differences, all these characters had one common ground - their love for the Lord and helping others. It was such a wonderful way to showcase that even people who alter in their beliefs ever so slightly can become united and work together.
Leah and Jamie? Yeah, they'll be a couple that I will be thinking about for a long time. I absolutely love it when two people just argue with each other right from the get go, but you can see that deep down there really is something there between them. Most times it is the reader who can see this way before the characters even catch on. It's just this exciting tension that I cannot get enough of. Here you have Leah, a Mennonite by choice, who is a little more open minded when it comes to certain things. Mix that with Amish hero Jamie, who is a hero just by the fact that he took in his poor nephew after the rest of the family died in a fire. Jamie has a lot learn - mostly that sometimes you have to think outside the box a little bit and have faith that the Lord will be there every step of the way.
The showstopper in this book however, was sweet little Peter, Jamie's nephew. Peter had been through so much in his short little life, that I didn't really blame him for not talking. And while he wasn't a talking character, the parts he did play in the book put a huge smile on my face. Peter is proof that communication is not just from the lips, it comes in all different forms. I enjoyed seeing him grow with the help of Leah, and the scene where he just climbed into her lap melted my heart.
So how do an Amish man and a Mennonite woman come together? Well, I am obviously not going to spoil that. But I will tell you this - it happens a little differently that I imagined it would. Amy Lillard has managed to write a story outside the box, but not so far outside that it isn't realistic. Her writing continues to surprise me, and I cannot wait to see what comes next! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. -
A love for Leah is book 2 in the Amish of Pontotoc series . A wonderful series if you haven't read book 1 A home for Hannah you will want too. This is a great series. Amy always writes a great story. The characters are well written and great story line. Leah is a very strong willed lady now living Mennonite she still finds herself remembering her Amish life! She meets her neighbor not sure she likes him he is stubborn. (maybe a bit like herself) Jamie Stolzfus is busy raising his nephew Peter after a tragedy with his parents. Leah is also raising her nephew. Leah sees Peter needs help but is battling Jamie. Can she get him to see what Peter really needs. Can they put their faith in trust in God? She is drawn to him but can they works through their differences? Another great novel by Amy Lillard. Looking forward to a 3rd. one.
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I was hoping we would get Leah's story next!!
This was a very interesting but also believable story about two people from similar religions who happen to fall in love. In their world the couple must be in the same church for a marriage to occur. Watching the two of them not only tackle their attraction to each other (which they both denied) but then try to figure out how they could be together in the long term kept this story interesting.
My only complaint was the ending; it felt rushed to me. I would have liked to read a little more, maybe an epilogue. Where did everyone end up living? How did Jamie end up adapting to his new life? -
While I enjoyed this book I think from now on I'll stick to just reading Amish romance from Sarah Price. I really didn't like the two main characters that much. But it was a quick read.
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This is book 2 of this series by Amy Lillard. In this story, Jamie Stolzfus moves from his home with his nephew in order to start a new life away from the memories. His nephew, Peter, has been involved with a tragedy and is no longer able to speak, .
Jamie is Amish and meets Mennonite Leah. But this is a relationship that is not to be. They don't get along at all and in fact there is a lot of controversy going on. It's difficult for Leah to deal with Jamie's very strict Amish lifestyle. Leah is a free thinker and full of energy.
The story is a captivating one and it's hard to put the book down. It's a great read and I know you will enjoy this one!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own. -
Amy Lillard is back with the second installment in the Amish of Pontotoc series. In this book, we get to know Leah better. Leah is the twin sister of Hannah whom we met in the first book in the series. Leah is a headstrong character who butts heads with Jamie Stoltzfus, an equally headstrong character who is caring for his nephew Peter. Will these two headstrong people be enemies, friends, or more?
I found this book to be a quick read. I really enjoyed getting to know Leah better and I found her to be an interesting character. When her sister left the Amish years ago Leah went with her. Now both have returned and Hannah is going to join the Amish church. Leah is now a Mennonite and insists she can't join the Amish church. This causes problems because there is an attraction to Jamie, who is Amish. Leah leads an independent life although she is caring for Hannah's son, Brandon. I really liked the relationship between this aunt and nephew. They have a strong bond that shows through the pages and some of my favorite parts of the book include these two and their banter with each other.
Now, as much as I liked most of the characters in the book there is one I disliked with a passion. Deborah King, Jamie's ex-fiancee. I disliked her from the moment she set foot in Pontotoc and the more I knew of her the more I disliked her. At times I wanted to jump into the story and run her out of town. Seeing as how that's not possible I just had to deal with this Nellie Olson-like character. She did add to the story though and she's a fine example of Amy's ability as an author to create a wide range of characters so I didn't totally hate her, just strongly disliked, Perhaps despised, even.
I really enjoyed the storyline of this book and the focus on the differences between the Amish and Mennonites. This story is by no means a history of the two religions but delves into the differences between the two groups and how it plays in the lives of the two main characters and how they feel they can/can't be a couple due to their different religions. There is a lot of emotion in the book as well and I enjoyed it all from the easy banter between characters to the more emotional scenes with Peter, a little boy who can't find his words.
While this book is second in the series I suppose it could be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading the first book before this one though as to have an understanding of all the characters and the events that have brought them to where they are now. I'm excited to read the next book in this series to see how these characters are doing and to meet new ones! This is definitely a book for the keeper shelf.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine. -
I really enjoyed reading the difference between the Amish and Mennonites. I didn't realize how much more modern thinking the Mennonites were. It was so interesting to get to know more about their culture. There is a saying I have heard before that fits this story perfectly. The saying is "Opposites Attract." I just wonder if Leah believes that?
Leah is Mennonite but her family is Amish. She is very independent and sure doesn't mind speaking her mind. I loved her ability to take up for herself and loved the times she shared with her family. Her shop is prosperous and seems to being going well for her.The question is , is she really happy?
Jamie is a great character and I admired his dedication to his nephew. When they move next door to Leah's family, they welcome him except maybe Leah. He sure has his hands full trying to make friends with her. They think differently and Leah is quick to give her opinion of how Jamie can best help his nephew Peter. This makes for some heated arguments that cause friction between them. I loved how the author talked about faith and how one of the characters questioned if they had enough faith to trust Him. It is hard sometimes to wait on God, but I find when I don't I mess things up.
The story gets exciting when Jamie's ex- girlfriend shows up unannounced. Is that jealousy I see on Leah? Deborah doesn't take no for an answer from Jamie and continues to persuade him to come back home and marry her. I loved how the author brought out the tension between them and how Jamie turned to God for answers. It's a great story that shows how much someone is willing to fight for the person they love. Leah has so many reasons why her and Jamie won't work out, but will she turn to God to help her discover what is best for her?
There is a part in the story that really intrigued me. It's a very unique way to share God's word and I thought it was such a great idea that I have decided to do it as well. There is nothing better to know God hasn't forgotten you when you discover an unexpected word from Him in a way you never expected. Jamie has a lot of anger about his nephew not willing to speak. Can someone show him that God is the answer?
I loved the story for several reasons. The author showed us the differences between Amish and Mennonite beliefs but the bottom line she emphasized is that we all love God. Jamie and Leah came from different backgrounds but the author elegantly delivered the message that God is who they serve and believe in. Is it possible for two different beliefs to come together and marry? I also liked the pulling apart between Leah and Jamie. There were times I thought they needed a time out. It reminds me of my husband. We are so opposite and boy does he have his hands full with me, but unconditional love prevails. I won't tell you if Leah and Jamie get together, but I will say that this is the best book the author has written.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion. -
A Love for Leah by Amy Lillard is the second book in The Amish of Pontotoc series. Leah Gingerich is opening Twice Blessed, a secondhand store on Main Street in Pontotoc, Mississippi. Leah is an independent Mennonite woman with forward thinking ideas. Jamie Stoltzfus and his nephew, Peter have moved into a cabin on the Gingerich property. Peter lost his parents and baby sister in a house fire six months prior and has not spoken since that day. Jamie is a traditional and stubborn Amish man who has certain ideas on how to live life and raise his nephew. Leah and Jamie clash from the moment they meet and somehow, they keep finding themselves together (I believe there is some matchmaking taking place). Despite wanting to avoid Jamie, Leah feels that God is calling her to help Peter and Jamie. Unfortunately, while Peter enjoys spending time with Leah, Jamie does not want her assistance. Leah is not going to let that stop her. But will a blast from Jamie’s past ruin their chances? Can this unlikely duo find common ground?
A Love for Leah is the second book in The Amish of Pontotoc, and I recommend reading the series in order. It will provide you with a better understanding of the characters, their background, the town, etc. Leah is the twin sister of Hannah whom we met in A Home for Hannah. She is present throughout A Love for Leah. Leah is an independent and strong minded woman who cares for her nephew, Brandon. I like the bond between Leah and Brandon as well as their interactions. It is good that Leah is strong willed because she pushes Jamie to do what is best for Peter. God finds a way to help those in need. With Deborah King (Jamie’s ex-fiancé), the author created a character that readers will love to dislike. She is annoying and full of herself. I thought the story was nicely written and it had gentle pacing. I had trouble, though, getting into A Love for Leah and it failed to hold my attention. While it is a cute Amish romance, I found it to be expected. The story could have used editing to tighten it up and it desperately needed to be shortened (way too long). Some of the Christian themes present are having faith, staying hopeful, and the power of prayer. We get to see the importance of being close to family, having good friends, and allowing love into our lives. I like that we get to see some of the differences between the Amish and Mennonite faith. My rating for A Love for Leah is 3 out of 5 stars. A Love for Leah is an uplifting Amish romance that will leave you with a good feeling in your heart and a smile on your face. -
A Love for Leah is Amy Lillard's second book in her Amish of Pontotoc, MS series. You don't have to read the first one to enjoy it, but I highly recommend you read them in order.
Leah Gingerich and her twin sister, Hannah, left the Amish to join the English a long time ago. Although Hannah eventually came back and is joining the Amish church, Leah just doesn't feel it's right for her. She tends to be outspoken and very independent, these things don't go well in the Amish faith so Leah chose to become Mennonite. Even though she has a different faith she is still close with her family visiting often and even helping Hannah raise her son. Leah's life is perfect or so she thinks until she meets Jamie and his sweet but silent nephew, Peter.
Jamie Stoltzfus's life isn't going according to plan and hasn't been for a while. Not since about six months ago when a house fire killed his brother, sister in law and their infant daughter, leaving his nephew Peter without a family. Jamie was more than happy to step up and take care of Peter, but the boy hasn't said a word since that fateful day. With Peter's grandparents wanting to take him from Jamie if he doesn't start talking soon, Jamie is carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. He thought leaving their home in Ethridge, TN and moving to Pontotoc, MS might give both him and Peter the fresh start they need. But, when he meets Leah Gingerich, he's not so sure he made the right move.
Right from the start sparks fly between Jamie and Leah. He thinks she's too outspoken for her own good. She thinks he looks down on others who don't share his faith. It seems the only thing these two can agree on is to not agree on anything!
I really enjoyed A Love for Leah and I think you will too. I love how with Leah and Jamie it wasn't love at first sight, it wasn't even like at first sight! It took time for their friendship to build and even though there were mishaps along the way they you could tell they held a mutual admiration for each other. They both put Peter first and even when they didn't agree on what was best for him, like should he go to school or not, they each wanted him to be healthy and happy.
I can't say enough how much I enjoyed A Love for Leah. It reminds us that friendships can come in the most unlikely of forms and that love covers a multitude of sins and differences.
*I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own. -
A Love for Leah is the second book in the Amish of Pontotoc series. This book can be read a standalone, but I highly recommend you read the series in order. It will give you a better understanding of all the characters.
Leah and Hannah Gingerich are twin sisters and they left the Amish to join the English many years ago. Hannah returned to the Amish community in the first book in this series.
Leah has left the Amish faith and has become Mennonite. Leah is still close with her family, and she helping care for Hannah's son, Brandon. Leah is a headstrong and very independent.
Jamie Stoltzfus has recently moved to Pontotoc with his 7-year-old nephew after a house fire killed his brother, sister in law and their infant daughter, leaving his nephew Peter without any family. Jamie has taken care of him for the past six months but Peter has not said a word since that fateful day.
Sparks fly from the very start when Leah and Jamie meet. They are both opinionated and have different ideas on what is best for Peter. They can not seem to agree on anything. I enjoyed the interactions and banter between Leah and Jamie.
Leah is Mennonite and Jamie is Amish, will they be able to overcome their differences?
I certainly enjoyed A Love for Leah and reading the differences between the Amish and Mennonites.
Amy Lillard has written another inspirational book. I thoroughly enjoyed it from the very first page.
Amy Lillard does thorough research into her characters and settings. Amy has taken the setting from the real town of Pontotoc, Mississippi. And the characters have such genuine feelings and thoughts that the everyday person would have. You are going to feel every emotion along with the characters and it will make you laugh and cry.
If you are a fan of Amish Fiction you will not be disappointed. Grab a copy of Amy’s new book and curl up with a cuppa and enjoy.
I highly recommend this book!
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We return to Pontotoc, Mississippi in book two of the Amish of Pontotoc series by Amy Lillard. In A Love for Leah we return to the lives of the Gingerich sisters. Leah has returned to Pontotoc but she is not there to rejoin the church. She has joined the Mennonite church and really feels like she belongs.
Jamie, a single Amish man, has recently moved to Pontotoc with his nephew who has recently overcome a devastating house fire where he was the only survivor. I really admired this character. It is great to see a strong Christian lead that has a tender heart and a longing to follow God’s call. I also loved little Peter and my heart broke for the trauma and turmoil that a young boy was going through.
I liked the interaction between Leah and Jamie. They are both strong characters that are not afraid to speak their mind and air their beliefs. It was interesting to really hear the differences between the two faiths laid out the way Leah did.
I loved how Amy continued to talk about faith throughout the novel. I especially liked how one character questioned their faith and if they had enough. It really hits home with readers as we have all questioned our faith and our patience to wait upon the Lord.
I really liked how Leah’s church got together to share the love of God by painting rocks and placing them around town. This new craze has sweep the country and it was refreshing to see how someone could use something so simple to spread God’s Word and love.
I did wish that there was a little more to the story. I wouldn’t have minded reading a longer novel to get a little more detail at the end. All in all, though, it was a great book that I felt could be a stand alone novel but would go better if you read the first book in the series, A Home for Hannah.
I received a copy of this novel from netgalley.com and Kensington Books in return for my honest review. -
A Love for Leah was very different than what I expected when I first started reading. Many of the characters in the book were not what I have come to associate with the traditional Amish romance themes. Leah lad left the Amish community many years ago to follow her twin sister Hannah in her life among the English. However, now that her sister has returned to the Amish community, she has instead chosen to join the Mennonite church nearby.
Their lives seem to be going along just fine when Jamie moves to the Amish community with his young nephew Peter. Peter is a special boy that is dealing with a horrible tragedy that has led him to stop speaking. At first, Leah and Jamie seem destined to be enemies, but soon everyone realizes that there's more under the surface.
The part that stood out the most in this book was the way all the characters found their own path to the same God. While their lifestyles may be quite different, their core beliefs were so similar and the author was able to show them in a way that really highlighted the similarities. It also showed how a difference of faith and way of life shouldn't stand in the way of friendship and helping each other. Leah had to remind Jamie of that a few times, and I love how he was able to take her words to heart. Then when it came time for Jamie to share a lesson with Leah, she opened her heart to hear his words and wonderful things happened.
With a bit of a twist at the end that I didn't quite see coming, A Love for Leah was an amazing book. This may be a series that I need to pick up and read through so I can read more about the family and their community.
*I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book* -
A Love for Leah is a nice continuation of the Pontotoc Mississippi series and includes characters we've met before. There are heartwarming moments but some filled with heartache and despair as well. Leah has returned back to where she grew up but is no longer Amish but a Mennonite. Her store takes off and she becomes quite the storekeeper even having a free section for the Amish and never really forgetting her roots. Jamie and his nephew move to Pontotoc and live in a cabin on Leah's parent's property. When Jamie and Leah first meet, sparks fly but they always end up in an argument. Do they really dislike each other that much?
There's matchmaking going on since Jamie needs a mother for his nephew but things get dicey at times. Peter is a sweet boy but doesn't talk as a result of the tragedy that drove him and his uncle to Mississippi. There are church events, chores, lots of food, angst, heartache, sorrow, sadness, confusing feelings and ultimately love even if it's not the path the Amish would follow. There is a nice flow to the story with lots of descriptions of the land, the beliefs of the Amish vs. the Mennonites, family dynamics and feelings. There are lots of stories being told at the same time but they come together nicely. There is closure with a happily ever after but lots more stories to tell and hints about them. I liked how Brandon grew from the first book in the series, A Home for Hannah, to this one.
Ms. Lillard is one of my favorite authors of Amish fiction no matter where she sets the story. I always jump at the chance to read her next book. I can't wait to see what I'll be reading next! -
A Love for Leah is an exceptional love story written by Any Lillard in her The Pontotoc Mississippi series. I enjoyed getting reaquainted with the characters in this series. Each character has their own quirks which make each one unique. This story is so inspiring in so many ways. With two different faiths playing out in this story we learn just how much alike they are.
Leah who has left her Amish community has returned home but not to her Amish faith but to her family. She is help raising her sister's teenage son and opening a new business. When Leah meets newcomer Jamie their personalities class something fierce. They argue and differ on so many levels. Jamie who is now his nephew Peter's guardian has a lot to deal with. A devastated Peter has shut down and refuses to speak. Leah being the loving caring young Mennonite lady she is makes it her place to try to help both Jamie and Peter heal. The bumpy road she sets out on may be her hardest challenge ever. When things start changing between Jamie and Leah she turns to her faith for answers. Finding common ground for the two maybe impossible. Who changes in this story is simply amazing. The author has done an excellent job telling this story and it is truly and enjoyable read.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. All opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others who enjoy the Amish genre.
Congratulations to Amy Lillard on releasing another fantastic story for her readers enjoyment. -
So first things first. You need to read the first book, A Home For Hannah. Think of it like this, you can go to a nice restaurant and get just a steak and be fine. But isn't it much better to get the potato, salad, bread and dessert? Some book series are like that. You can just read this book and be fine, but to really understand and to have closer connections to what's going on you need to start at the beginning.
I loved Leah. Amy Lillard makes characters that come to life. They have flaws and you find yourself drawn deeply into her worlds that she creates. You find yourself connecting with her characters as well and caring for them. I felt deeply for Peter and Jamie as well.
There were a few places where I did want to bonk both Leah and Jamie. They do argue quite a bit and that made me nuts. The ending was a little too fast as well. Maybe an epilogue to tie things together would have helped some?
Will Leah and Jamie find what they are looking for? Will they trust in God to lead them in the right direction? Pick up your copy of A Love for Leah and enjoy a great story! Happy Reading!
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.* -
Amish born but a practicing Mennonite, Leah has returned to her hometown of Pontotoc, MS to help raise her sister Hannah's son and open her second hand store to help English and Amish alike. She does not expect to fall for newcomer Jamie, who is very set in his Amish ways. While he learns how to raise his nephew and help him overcome the effects of a devastating fire, he finds himself being frustrated and intrigued by Leah. Can they find a way to meet in the middle and follow their hearts?
A Love for Leah can be read as a stand alone novel in the series but my suggestion is to read the first novel, A Home for Hannah, first. I found myself re-reading pages to completely understand what was happening and the dynamic between Leah, Hannah and Hannah's teenage son.
Leah is a great strong female main character. She is not afraid to voice her opinions and stand her ground. The bad side of her being so strong is she is a bit stubborn at times and cuts her nose off in spite her face. Maybe some thinking before spouting off would help her have a little more tact.
This is my first Amish book set in Mississippi and I am ready to visit again. The first book in the series has already been put on my TBR list and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
