An Amish Gift by Cynthia Keller

After her husband, Shep, loses his latest job, Jennie Davis is grateful to be in a car en route to beautiful Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Shep has inherited a house from a distant cousin, along with the cousin’s long-established bicycle shop. The move gives Jennie, Shep, and their two children a welcome chance for a fresh start.

While Shep dives into his new venture at the bike shop, Jennie carefully restores their broken-down house. She loves being a stay-at-home mom but yearns to find some fulfillment outside of her family—particularly as they struggle financially. On morning walks, she forges a friendship with her Amish neighbor, Mattie Fisher, who opens up about her modest way of life. Mattie’s unswerving good character in the face of adversity encourages Jennie to seek practical solutions to her own difficulties. A passing remark by Jennie’s son transforms desperation about their finances into inspiration, leading her to embark upon a candy-making enterprise.

Soon, Jennie’s newfound purpose collides with Shep’s growing stress at work and long-simmering tensions between husband and wife rise to the surface. As the holiday season approaches, their family is challenged as never before—until an unexpected visitor arrives to give Jennie the greatest gift of all.

My thoughts...

Shep's business is failing, debts are piling up, and he refuses to let Jennie work as he is the provider for the family. Living in a dumpy house that is embarrassing to her children, Jennie senses things are falling apart. Her relationship with Shep is almost non existant, her children are distant and constantly bicker. On a walk with her dog one morning Jennie meets the Amish woman she has seen many times while passing by. She's thrilled to finally meet Mattie, their friendship builds and the way of the Amish has its effect on Jennie and her family.

This is a sweet story with a good plot and good characters in a nice setting. The bond these two women form was one of true friendship, Mattie was a great influence on Jennie as was Mattie's family. Changes take place, hearts soften, children get hurt, and death occurs. A very good read! 5 out of 5 stars!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.