Description
In this new novel set in the beloved Oklahoma Amish community of Wells Landing, three generations of women challenge themselves and each other to make a fresh start in faith, family—and love.
Jenna Burkhart is tired of being “special” and hearing about what she can’t do. Even though she suffered a head injury in a childhood swimming accident, she wants a life of her own just like any Amish woman. But now that she, her mamm, and her mammi have moved to Wells Landing, she’s having a hard time fitting in. . . . Until she meets Buddy Miller, a boy just like her, who gives her the confidence to reach for the impossible . . .
Like Jenna, Buddy is used to being the boy no one expects much from, the one people see as “different.” Still, being around Jenna’s lively, kind-hearted ways makes him strive ever-harder to become the self-sufficient Amish man she deserves. But in the face of family disapproval and their own fears, will Jenna and Buddy’s courage be enough to give them a forever happiness together?
Praise for Amy Lillard and her Wells Landing novels
“An inspirational story of romance, faith, and trust . . . will appeal to fans of Wanda Brunstetter and Beverly Lewis.”
—Library Journal
“Fans of inspirational romance will appreciate Lillard’s vivid characters and positive message.”
—Publishers Weekly
Purchase a copy here:
My Review:
This is one of the sweetest Amish romances I’ve ever read. This story is told from the first-person viewpoints of Jenna and Buddy, Jenna almost drowned when she was little girl, and now her mother refers to her thought processes as “simple”. Buddy was born with Down’s Syndrome. Both Jenna and Buddy are loved, cherished, and protected by their families. But although Buddy and Jenna may not think the same way a “normal” person does, doesn’t mean that they aren’t capable of living the full life that God has for them. Now they have to convince their families that not only are they capable of living that life, they want to live it together as a married couple.
I adored Jenna from the beginning of this book. She realizes that she’s different from others, and has never thought that she would have a boyfriend or get married. But after she meets Buddy, she begins to believe that God may possibly have a wonderful plan in store for them. Jenna is a truly loving and caring person, and Buddy deeply wants to be the one taking care of Jenna. There were scenes between them that were just too sweet for words. I loved the way the Amish community was portrayed as to the love and care they extended to Jenna and Buddy, and they way they rallied around them to help them.
This book highlights the value that God places on each individual. Amy Lillard has given us a beautiful couple in this book, and I’m hoping we’ll see more of them as this series continues.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
About the Author:
About Amy Lillard
I’m a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I’ve retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I’m from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son-a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels-not necessarily in that order. I’m a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I’m shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I love to write inspirational romances. The two go hand-in-hand for me.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I’m a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that’s me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I’ll get to it or I won’t, either way I’m good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I’m alone on this last one, and again, I’m good with it.)
Favorite movies-(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven’t seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn’s and Audrey’s.