| Title | : | Amish Christmas Miracles |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 720 |
| Publication | : | Published November 10, 2020 |
Amish Christmas Miracles Reviews
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A new teacher, Leah Miller, comes to an Amish one room school house a few weeks before Christmas. On her first day as teacher she gets her students involved in putting together a Christmas program for their parents. One shy little girl isn't happy about singing in front of a room full adults. A very handsome blue eyed Amish man finds excuses, other than bringing firewood, to be at the school house every afternoon. Leah got a late start on the Christmas program. Will the students be ready to play their parts in time for the scheduled program. Will romance be a part of Leah's Christmas ?
I thought this short story was very Christmassy and cute. Leah is a good teacher who took the time to convince a student she should take part in the Christmas program. There was a little unexpected twist to the story near the end.
If you like Amish Christmas novellas you will love this story by Laura Bradford. I recommend it for your reading pleasure.
I received an ARC copy of Laura Bradford's story The Christmas Program. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
The Christmas Program is part of the Amish Christmas Miracles to be released on November 10th 2020. -
I just finished an ARC of The Christmas Fudge Miracle by Susan Lantz Simpson that is featured in Amish Christmas Miracles, and what a day brightener it was. BethAnn Byler is sent (actually set up) by the Christmas Cookbook cronies, as she calls them, to get a favorite fudge recipe from the son of one of their group who has passed away. Except she goes about it all wrong, angering the son, and he refuses to give it to her. The story that follows is both poignant and humorous. Based on The Christmas Fudge Miracle, I preordered the book and can’t wait to read the rest of the stories!
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I have read an early copy of Jennifer Spredemanns story' An Unexpected Christmas Gift ; one of the stories included in the Amish Christmas Miracles Collection, releasing November 10, 2020.
This story kept my attention from the first page to the last page. It had me laughing out loud a few times, made me wonder and gave me tears as well..
I loved Janie Mishler from the start, and her dat, Joash, he made me smile a lot..
I have read a lot of Jennifer Spredemanns books and I love how she puts the word of God into each one. In this story it bought a lesson to us about God's love for all of us.
I would recommend this story to all ages and hope it brightens their day as it did mine while reading this story. -
You know...sometimes a story just gives you exactly what you need at the perfect time. I was honored to review a copy of Susan Lantz Simpson’s story “Christmas Fudge Miracle” and it was the perfect read for this wild and wacky 2020. It transported me to a simpler place when Beth Ann Byler is commissioned to acquire a coveted fudge recipe from grieving young furniture maker, David. The romance was sweet, the touch of mystery endearing, and the talk of sweets made my mouth water for some chocolate cloud fudge! The real world is in a muddle right now, but it is a joy to step into fiction that brings to mind snowy days, hot chocolate, warm fires and sweet love.
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ok. here goes Kathleen Fuller has whetted my appetite for so much more then just this Sleigh Bells Ring short story. I want to find out more about this Holmes County community....what is the back story for Jonas, Rachel and Junita. I can not wait until December to read all of the stories in this book. Great Christmas read.
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Before I look at each individual novella in this collection, I have to say that Amish Christmas Miracles is a fabulous read from start to finish. While – as is always the case with a multi-story collection – there were certain stories I loved slightly more than the others, there were absolutely none that fell flat. Each story is full of love, family, faith, and Christmas – with engaging characters and heartwarming plots that hold your attention from beginning to end.
Peanut Butter Christmas by Jennifer Beckstrand
Oh how I adore this author’s humor & the way she incorporates it so perfectly into her stories. I fell in love with precocious twin brothers Benji & Alfie in Andrew and they quickly became my favorite of her characters… well, next to Felty & Anna Helmuth and Bitsy Weaver. Anyway, the youngest Petersheim brothers are once again up to their misguided (not to mention hilarious and infinitely endearing) matchmaking efforts, and readers won’t be able to read this one without a huge grin on their faces.
The Christmas Prayer by Lenora Worth
This is such a sweet, heartfelt story of second chances and forgiveness. Thomas and Lizzie’s love for each other hasn’t faded but other people’s choices have kept them apart for five years. When Lizzie summons him home at his dying grandmother’s request, the magic of the season and a soul that needs to right a grievous wrong work overtime to stir those feelings to the surface once again. The author beautifully captures the poignancy to these scenes, and you may find yourself a little misty-eyed as I was on a couple of occasions.
A Stranger for Christmas by Serena B. Miller
Miller’s offering seems to be the longest story in this collection and looks to be the start of a new series. I really hope so because I wasn’t ready to be done with these characters yet, particularly with Lucas and Amy. But honestly I’m just as invested in Keenan-D and young Cameron too – for different reasons lol. The author wrote with touches of humor (the rooster scene!) and lots of heart. This is the perfect story to cozy up with in front of a roaring fire and let the spirit of Christmas wrap around your heart.
Sleigh Bells Ring by Kathleen Fuller
This is one of the shorter novellas of the group, but it carries the same warmth and talent as the others. Fuller makes use of every word, setting the scene and developing the characters as smartly as those of much longer novels. She soon has readers fully embracing Griffin and Hope and rooting for them to make their feelings known. Woven through the romance is a gentle message of the importance of community & belonging – and extending both to even the difficult people around us.
A Christmas to Treasure by Rachel J. Good
I always enjoy this author’s romances, and her novella in Amish Christmas Miracles is no exception. Full of emotion-laden romantic tension, Joshua & Rose’s story may make it difficult to breathe sometimes – from both the emotion and the romance. Lots of wounded people in a thrown-together family means tension of all kinds is in full display, and your heart will break for each of these characters. But with the grace I’ve come to expect from this author she adds well-timed doses of precious sweetness and wit to lighten the load … and wraps it all in the comfort of Jesus and the beauty of tentative new love.
An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Jennifer Spredemann
This author’s work is less familiar to me, so I really enjoyed getting this taste for her writing style. I loved her winsome characters as well as the clever plot, Rosco the dog, and Janie’s dad with a twinkle in his eye. Fun wit and humor are sprinkled throughout, as well as a full range of other emotions. Rob & Janie’s ‘meet cute’ is creative and leads to a very sweet romance with some great kisses. This is a really cute story that just makes your heart smile, and I’ll definitely be reading more of Spredemann’s books in the future!
A Christmas Homecoming by Mary Alford
Alford’s novella is another lovely second chance romance in a charming setting and a gentle faith message. I loved the parallels (whether intended or not) between Abby & Simon’s rekindling relationship, regrets over past choices for them both, and the restoration of Abby’s family home. It gave this story a lot of depth and additional layers, and watching them fall in love was really sweet and enjoyable.
The Christmas Program by Laura Bradford
Any time I have a new Laura Bradford read at my fingertips is a happy, happy occasion. I love her warmth, the dimensionality of her characters & plots, and the tender romance she weaves throughout. Her novella in Amish Christmas Miracles is everything I hoped it would be. Leah’s natural gift as a teacher and love for her students made my heart smile, and little Emily Mast stole the show for me. I loved watching this unlikely threesome help each other overcome fears & insecurities, and of course the sweet romance was icing on the sugar cookie! (And did I mention how much I adored Emily?!?)
Louisa’s Christmas Blessing by Dana R. Lynn
This is another favorite author of mine (though usually I’m reading her romantic suspense novels), and oh my goodness I loved this story! Tragedy derailed a budding romance between teenagers Caleb & Louisa and when we catch up with them nine years later it’s another tragedy that brings them together. And of course I fell headlong into love with Caleb’s young kids – they are so precious, adorable, and completely heart-stealing. The conversations between Caleb & Louisa are a delightful mix of witty and sweet, and it was truly a pleasure to watch their feelings for each other leap back to life. One of my fave stories in the collection!
The Heart’s Return by Adina Senft
While I’ve previously read and loved the majority of authors in the Amish Christmas Miracles collection, this is my first time reading anything by Adina Senft. I went into it with no expectations but quickly found myself enjoying it just as much as the other stories. Anna and Neil are great, though realistically flawed, characters and while they suffer from a typical lack of communication it doesn’t squelch their chemistry or the longing evident in both of them. I also really loved one of the supporting characters, and since this is part of a series, I’m hoping to discover more of her story as I catch up on the author’s other books!
The Christmas Fudge Miracle by Susan Lantz Simpson
I’ve read (and enjoyed) one other book by this author but am still fairly new to her work, so I was very glad to see a story by her in the collection. First of all, I have to say that it made me super hungry for Christmasy food haha. I also really enjoyed spending time with BethAnn & David, getting a front row seat as they developed a sweet friendship that soon blossomed into something more. BethAnn is easily likable, and David is too, once he gets past his initial gruffness. Their wit and affection will leave a smile on your face for sure.
The Blessings Jar by Loree Lough
It’s been a while since I got to read something by Loree Lough, and I wasn’t disappointed at all by the chance to correct that oversight with The Blessings Jar. The author tackles some sensitive issues in her novella – and does so with great tact and grace, as well as dignity. My heart broke for David’s past and Anna’s present, and I wanted to give them both big hugs more than once. Nonetheless, this isn’t a heavy story, and there are plenty of opportunities to smile, chuckle, and swoon too. I even liked the quirky & affectionate turkey Broze (high praise from me since I share Anna’s bird phobia). Very sweet message throughout.
A Gift Worth Waiting For by Tracy Fredrychowski
This was my first read by this author, too, and it ended up being one of my favorites in the collection! Like some of the other stories in this book, Amanda & Adam’s romance is a blend of heartbreaking and heartwarming – and the author achieves the perfect balance of both. Lots of cute and humorous moments with the kids involved, plenty of gently swoony moments with the adults too. I loved both Amanda and Adam, as well as Amanda’s siblings, and all of their interactions even in the midst of their grief and uncertainty. A tender reminder that God cares and has plans for our good, no matter how unlikely.
The Amish Author’s Christmas by Ashley Emma
Another new-to-me author! It was fun to watch Ivy’s somewhat misguided attempts to get much needed inspiration for her next novel by tagging along for an Amish Christmas, and of course falling in love with more than just Isaiah. Her faith journey is quite touching, and I appreciated how naturally the author worked that into the story without being preachy or feeling forced. I also enjoyed getting to know Isaiah’s family through Ivy’s eyes – and her through theirs. A lovely story all around!
Bottom Line: Phew! That’s a lot of stories haha but wow – they were all so good! No weak one in the bunch. A collection like this is always a great way to find new authors and get a taste for their style, while also enjoying familiar favorites. I found that to be very true in Amish Christmas Miracles, and I heartily recommend it for fans of Amish fiction or just sweet holiday romance.
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)
first appeared on
Reading Is My SuperPower -
It was refreshing to read an early ARC copy of Christmas Fudge Miracle by Susan Lantz Simpson for this upcoming collection of Christmas stories. This delightful tale with Beth Ann and David brought plenty of smiles, laughs and tears. Their initial encounter didn’t go as Beth Ann planned, but with determination she kept trying to obtain the covet recipe the Christmas Cookbook cronies, as she called them, had requested. With misunderstandings, anguish, and sharing will Beth Ann be able to obtain the recipe for David’s mother’s fudge that was heavenly? This is a sensational story that gave way to a heartwarming Christmas message that still remains on my mind.
A Christmas to Treasure by Rachel J. Good is a touching read. I was immersed in the action, pain, devotion, sacrifice, faith, and love of the characters. Joshua and his daughters had suffered lost but he was determined to make it. Unforeseen circumstances and events resulted in a marriage more for convenience after he moved back to Lancaster. Rose’s gentleness, determination, fortitude, love, and faith added a lot to the marriage and the three younger girls adored her. Rose was determined to assist Joshua with finances even without asking him, when she became aware of their need. The unexpected turn of events with the Englishers in the area and their new Amish neighbors brought a beautiful illustration of God’s love, hope and peace not only at Christmas but any time of the year. I loved this novella and would like to see a continuation of these characters in another story by Good.
Tracy Fredrychowski’s story A Gift Worth Waiting For is a delightful tale. The Beiler’s girls were struggling after losing their parents. Adam Weaver was a neighbor and the Bishop instructing him to reach out to Amanda, the oldest sister. A letter penned to Amanda with “Gott will always show you something to smile about even on the darkest day" from Adam brought a smile to her sad face. Not understanding why life was like it was the exchange of simple letters brought hope and a peace in understanding and accepting Gott’s will. Had God orchestrated all the events for the Beiler’s to move as the Bishop Amos suggested or would there be a greater Christmas blessings that definitely was worth waiting for? It was nice to see the mention of Fredrychowski’s Apple Blossom Inn in this tale, but this novella cane be read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary ARC copy from each of the authors for each novella I’ve read thus far, and was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own sincere thoughts.
I’m never disappointed when I read a book by these three authors. They are some of my favorite authors and I know they’ll have a faith message in their stories and the lives of their characters. I look forward to reading rest of this collection when it is released in November. This is going to be a wonderful Christmas collection of Amish stories. -
I have read an early copy of Jennifer Spredemann's story 'An Unexpected Christmas Gift', one of the stories included in the Amish Christmas Miracles Collection' releasing November 10, 2020 . I really enjoyed this sort story. An Amish man turned English and gets his dream job. Then he meets an Amish women and wants to court her so he goes back to Amish. Find out how the met and what he had to ask the Bishop what he could still do when he joins the gmay.
Really a good Story! I do recommend and can't wait to read the other stories in the book! -
Amish Christmas Miracles is a collection of 14 Amish Christmas stories written by 14 different authors. Each author has their own style of writing which keeps the reader wanting to read each story. I have read other stories by each of authors which made me to definitely want to read this book. This book is filled with faith, hope, love, and Christmas Miracles.
Within this book you will find stories by Kathleen Fuller, Lenora Worth, Laura Bradford, Jennifer Beckstrand, Dana R. Lynn, Susan Simpson, Ashley Emma, Jennifer Spredemann, Rachel J Good, Serena B. Miller, Mary Alford, Lorre Lough, and Tracy Fredrychowski.
Congratulations to all of the authors for releasing such a sweet inspiring book for the Christmas season. -
I just finished reading an early copy of Jennifer Spredemann's story 'An Unexpected Christmas Gift', one of the stories included in the Amish Christmas Miracles Collection' releasing November 10, 2020.
This story has an unusual way that way these characters “accidentally” come together. If Hallmark made an Amish Christmas movie, this novella would be the perfect storyline. Janie and Rob have both faced heartache in the past; and each thinks that the life they now have is the best for them....until they meet, and hope begins to bloom in both their hearts. This is a sweet story with a theme of faith in God and the unexpected ways He works for our good.
If all the stories in this book are this good—and there’s some very gifted authors putting this collection together—this is going to be a wonderful book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Here’s my review of another wonderful story in this collection:
I have loved every book I’ve read by Jennifer Beckstrand, but I’ve especially enjoyed “The Petersheim Brothers” series that features
the young twin brothers, Alfie and Benji. Alfie and Benji have adventurous spirits and caring hearts, the combination of which keeps their mother on her toes.
Alfie and Benji also consider themselves expert matchmakers, and this time their attention is turned towards their grown-up friend, Mary. The twins deeply love Mary, because she gives them free homemade donuts and soda pop. They realize that Mary is deeply unhappy because her romance with Jerry has fallen apart. They come up with a perfect plan to reunite Mary and Jerry—-and this delightful story follows the twins as they get ready for Christmas and launch their matchmaking plan into action. Alfie wants his own cake for Christmas, but Benji wants a Christmas miracle. This is a charming story. I promise you’ll smile your way through every page of this story. If you’ve not read any of the books in this wonderful series, you’ll love this introduction to Alfie and Benji.
I’m looking forward to reading every story in this collection!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Another review of another lovely story in this collection:
A Gift Worth Waiting For
By Tracy Fredrychowski
This story is part of the “Amish Christmas Miracles” collection
What a sweet story! As I read the first few pages, my heart went out to Amanda Beiler, the main character in this story. Amanda’s mother has just passed away, and Amanda is now the sole caretaker of her seven younger sisters. As Amanda looks toward her future, she feels her dream of marriage and a family of her own is slipping away. Her faith is shaky, and life seems sad and uncertain. Adam Weaver, Amanda’s neighbor, is still grieving the loss of wife and child, but as he sees Amanda’s struggles, he feels compelled to help Amanda’s family in any way he can. I enjoyed following the growing friendship between Amanda and Adam, and seeing them both come to realize that God had wonderful plans for their lives that surpass what they could imagine.
Although this story is shorter in length, it’s full of hope, faith, and love. It’s perfect reading for the busy Christmas season and turning our thoughts towards God’s goodness to us.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Rachel J. Good’s beautiful contribution to this collection:
Christmas To Treasure by Rachel J. Good
A story from the “Amish Christmas Miracles” collection
Rose Beiler is 30 years old and still single. She longs for a husband and family of her own. Joshua King is a widower with four little girls to raise. When Joshua’s sister approaches both Rose and Joshua about considering a marriage of convenience, Rose quickly agrees. She had loved Joshua during their teenage years, and even though it’s a marriage of convenience, Rose is looking forward to the companionship of marriage. But Joshua has struggles he isn’t sharing with Rose; and Rose’s relationship with Joshua’s oldest daughter is off to a difficult start. Rose’s expectations of happiness seem very dim, and her dreams of a having a loving family during the Christmas season seems further away than ever before.
I loved the character of Rose. She’s a caring and unselfish young woman. Even when her path seems difficult, she always relies on her faith to carry her through. Throughout this whole story, I was hoping that Joshua would finally realize the true treasure he had found in Rose. This story tugged at my heart, and is a perfect story to highlight the spirit of unselfish giving during Christmas season.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own. -
This review is for the novella A Christmas to Treasure by Rachel J. Good. I really enjoyed this story! I could feel Rose's emotions throughout this entire novella.
As Joshua and Rose decided to marry, it was clear that Rose was going to have some challenges related to Joshua's oldest daughter, Hannah. I was so impressed by the way Rose related to Hannah and was understanding of the way Hannah was acting, even as Hannah behaved very poorly.
Rose worked hard to be a caring wife and mother and it was hard to see her feelings hurt by Joshua's actions. Even though, as the reader, I could see why Joshua was behaving as he did, I still felt the pain in my heart as Rose began to feel that there was no hope of ever being loved by him.
I didn't want to set this novella down. I really liked the way everything began to turn around for these two characters. I would have loved to have seen an epilogue on the end of this story, maybe six months in the future, so that I could see how things were going with these two and if that baby cradle was going to be put to use anytime soon!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. -
I just finished reading The Christmas Fudge Miracle by Susan Lantz Simpson featured in the anthology, Amish Christmas Miracles, and I absolutely loved it. Having studied the Amish for many years, I must say Susan's characters and situations and highly realistic. Her stories always entertain and inspire me. I can't wait to read the rest of the anthology.
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The following is a review of an advance copy of "Sleigh Bells Ring", a story by Kathleen Fuller within this collection. When the book has released, I'll come back and update my review after reading the entire work.
I've always had a fondness for multi-author Amish collections, but those I've read have all been collected novellas rather than short stories. So it was a treat to be able to read Kathleen Fuller's contribution to Amish Christmas Miracles, an eighteen-page story entitled "Sleigh Bells Ring". (Thank you to Kathleen Fuller for allowing me access to her story - I was not required to post a review or compensated; my opinions are my own.)
Fuller is a gifted writer who has a knack for creating vibrant characters. With "Sleigh Bells Ring", she manages to quicklly establish her two protagonists, the aptly-named Hope and Griffin, who has an interesting backstory. Additionally, and this is impressive within a short-story, Fuller even creates interest in secondary characters, Juanita and Jonas.I enjoyed the short time spent with these characters, witnessing their memorable exchanges. I'd like to see any of these four folks show up in a full-length work at some point.
Even though it's August and we're in the midst of the dog days of summer, by the time I finished "Sleigh Bells Ring", I could feel the Spirit of Christmas in the air! Kathleen Fuller's story has me excited for the rest of the collection. It's priced at only 99 cents on Kindle right now, so I pre-ordered. I look forward to reading the other 13 stories which are written by indie authors with whom I'm unfamiliar. That's the best part of these multi--author collections - you get a sampling of different authors and can discover some new favorites! -
Louisa's Christmas Blessing by Dana R. Lynn
Wonderful story line about forgiving oneself and realizing that God is with you always. Louisa is sweet on Caleb and after a tragedy Caleb ends up leaving because of it. Caleb does return but is he willing to let go of the past and ask for forgiveness. Delightful read for the holiday or any season.
I received an ARC copy from Dana R. Lynn and I am under no obligation to leave a positive review.
An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Jennifer Spredemann
This is a wonderful story of love after loss and despair with a miracle that is sent from God.
The characters will endear to your heart and you will be delighted in reading this book. -
A great collection, some I enjoyed more than others.
