February 2016, 176 pages, Ebook, Personal copy
Book summary
Newly widowed Amish woman, Anita Graber, has returned to live with her brother and his family in Lancaster County.
As an expectant widow, she is quite surprised when everyone from the bishop's wife to her brother decides that her baby needs a father. Anita endures many embarrassing moments as she's forced into one awkward situation after another.
Even though another man is the last thing on her mind, she finds a friend in her sister-in-law's brother, Simon. Anita wonders why everyone has rejected Simon as a suitable match for her.
Will Anita finally convince everyone that she and her baby are happy on their own?
Could the man that no one sees her with, be the very man who eventually captures her heart?
Nayu's thoughts
I haven't yet reviewed many Amish themed novels, but trust me when I say I've read quite a few! It's one of my favourite genres of fiction. Amish Widow's Hope has what love about the genre, some humour, strong family values based on religious values, a bit of sweet clean romance, and an ending that makes me feel happy and uplifted. I am planning on reviewing more in time because I do want to share the series I love.
Speaking of series Amish Widow's Hope is part of a large series which I hope to read in time: I think this one was free on Kindle, which is why I got it, and it's the first book I've ever read by Samantha.
What drew me to Anita's tale was the fact she was single, which as a mother isn't common in the Amish community. The lengths the well meaning neighbours went to to try and set her up with suitable bachelors was absolutely hilarious, despite the trouble it caused Anita. Even she found it funny, thankfully she has Simon who understands her situation, and treats her well in a considerate manner. Anita's brother in particular gets a bit upset with Anita spending time with Simon, which Anita doesn't understand for a long time, because Simon is kind and friendly, and a good man.
Of course being a romance novel he is the one she falls in love with, which is a joy to watch alongside the failed matchmaking attempts. In some ways you'd expect Amish characters to be respectful and not that forceful about what they want in life for someone, but the bishop's wife is an example that that simply isn't true at all. It's a testament to Anita's inner strength and her faith in God which helps her stick with her convictions and not keep the peace and do what her family wants her to do. Forging a new path isn't easy, but it's most definitely worth it, especially when her happiness is at stake.
I enjoy learning about the Amish culture which differs between communities through Anita's tale. Their devotion to God is admirable, the way they incorporate God into every part of their life is something I can relate to and despite being a different religion I feel at home with Amish fiction. Their traditional ways is appealing in a world full of technology, and while I love my video games too much to give them up, the simpler Amish way of life is inspiring in subtle ways. This is placed firmly on my reread shelf, and I look forward to reading the rest in the series.
Find out more about the series on Samantha's website.
Suggested read
Other Amish fiction titles include An Amish Year by Beth Wiseman (Amish Fiction, Christian fiction, 10E/10E, NetGalley, short 'n' sweet review)
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