When romance comes knocking on Mary Yoder’s door it isn’t without challenges. Mary is a beautiful young single Amish lady with a disability. She really hasn’t given much thought to romance or marriage in her life because of her limitations. When Doctor King steps into her life they become good friends but soon they are smitten with one another. This can’t become a relationship because Mary is a baptized member of the Amish faith and Reuben is English and worldly. If God didn’t want them to be together why did he bring them together? Could it be that He will make a way for them to have a life together? And what part does Mary’s Calico have in this story? Could the cat be Mary’s Hope ?

I enjoyed reading this warm hearted story. I loved how the community stuck together and helped one another. I thought the book was realistic because there was both good and bad times in the story . Two
characters had decisions to make concerning their health and both needed to learn to place their faith and trust in God. I was drawn into the story and it kept my interest till the ending. This is my first time reading a book by Anne Blackburne and it didn’t disappoint. I hope in the future to be reading more of her books.

I recommend this book to readers of Amish Romance and Christian Fiction. This book is scheduled to be released on 6/1/24. It is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.

I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are entirely my own.

#Mary’sCalicoHope #NetGalley

Mary's Calico HOPE is a story filled with wholesome twists, turns, gasps and a happy ending, what more could you want? I really enjoyed reading this story and learning about Mary, Lydia and Reuben...such wonderful characters. Of course, there was also an antagonist, Amelia Schwartz, who really throws a metaphorical wrench into things! I really appreciated Mary's journey as she decides on whether or not to have the surgery that could improve her life, and how she trust Reuben, who really is a bit overzealous with his desire to see Mary take the opportunity for the surgery. It is a well-rounded story and even though the ending was well done, I still wanted to read more about Mary and Reuben, a sequel perhaps?

Mary’s Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne – Likeable Characters, Faith, Friendship and Hope

I was excited to read Anne Blackburne’s newest book Mary’s Calico Hope, the fifth book in The Heart of the Amish series.

Mary Yoder’s life has not been easy. Daily she deals with the injuries, pain, and mobility issues that she sustained at the age of four in a buggy accident. Despite the daily challenges she faces, Mary has hope and faith and trusts God. She works hard to supports herself. She lives in her own place, yet she also has the support of her family whose home connects to her small dawdi haus.

When the new doctor, Reuben King, meets Mary he investigates a surgical procedure that may help relieve her pain and help improve her mobility. Mary has been down the surgery road one to many times with mixed results. As they continue to interact and get to know one another, Reuben is attracted to Mary. He appreciates not only her outward beauty but also her inward spirit. Will their relationship be anything but friendship, since Mary is Amish and Reuben is a Mennonite?

I enjoyed reading this book and found the characters very likable. Mary and her family and friends were caring, loving and supportive of one another. Reuben was a dedicated doctor, cared about his patients and developed friendships in the Amish community. I appreciated that faith was foundational to Mary and the other characters. They lived out their faith daily. The author brought back some of the characters from earlier novels in this series.

In every town there will always be that person who likes to stir up trouble. Will Bishop Troyer see through Amelia’s critical eye and gossiping tongue? Will he address the sin that is in her heart? Or let her go unchecked?

One thing I struggled with was the characters belief that God was speaking to their hearts, outside of Scripture, and telling them what to. (A belief that is very prevalent today.) As opposed to God speaking to believers through inerrant Scripture alone. Absolutely I believe God directs our steps (Proverbs 16:9).

Some aspects of the Amish faith, I struggle to understand. Like the Amish not being able to become doctors without leaving the faith. I had never heard of the Beachy Amish and found that interesting.

If you enjoy Amish stories that incorporate faith into the storyline, I recommend reading Anne Blackburne’s newest book Mary’s Calico Hope. Anne’s characters are well developed and seem to go deeper than other books. I appreciate how the characters showed love and support to one another and had a reverent attitude towards God.

I would like to thank Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Mary’s Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne. I was provided a complimentary copy of the book, but was under no obligation to give a favorable review. This book will be published June 1, 2024.

In Mary's Calico Hope, Anne Blackburne seamlessly weaves together themes of faith and uncertainty against the backdrop of Amish country life. Mary's internal struggle, torn with her feelings for Reuben and a decision of whether or not to undergo another surgery, reflects the complexities of human emotion and the quest for God’s guidance.

Throughout Mary's journey, Blackburne skillfully depicts the transformative power of prayer and the comfort found in surrendering to God's plan. Each decision Mary makes is guided by her unwavering faith.

As readers immerse themselves in the sweet narrative, they are reminded of the constant need for God's guidance in all aspects of life, not just during moments of crisis. Through Mary's example, Blackburne encourages us to trust in God's wisdom and embrace His guidance, even in the darkest of times.

Mary's Calico Hope is more than just a tale of faith; it's a delightful exploration of love and resilience in the face of adversity. It serves as a powerful reminder that, regardless of the challenges we encounter, God's presence, grace, and love are ever-present, offering strength, solace, and answers to those who seek Him.

I received a digital copy of Mary’s Calico Hope from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

Mary’s Calico Hope is a great story of love, trusting God and being willing to follow his will even when it hurts. Mary, who us Amish, was gravely injured in a buggy accident as a child and after several surgeries still must use crutches and has pain. Dr Reuben King, the new doctor in town is Mennonite. He believes a new surgical procedure can give Mary more freedom of movement and less pain. She is skeptical and as they spend time discussing the pros and cons they realize that there is love growing between them but he does not wish to give up his life as a doctor and she will be shunned if she chooses to leave her Amish community. Can God show them a way to a compromise?
Excellent ending that surprised me.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I cannot seem to get enough of these 'The Heart of the Amish' books. This is my second one and I have truly fallen in love with this series. Mary is so brave, yet so frustratingly stubborn that I really connected with her. I have a lot of the same issues with her, sometimes I choose to be stubborn instead of face what I know is best for me.

It's really nice to see her face her fears and be able to move past that personal stumbling block. My heart really ached for her and Reuben. They clearly are so perfectly made for each other. They are so alike that you would think they were actually speaking a different language when they were trying to communicate with each other. They're both saying the same things, just in a different way. Part of me wanted to knock their heads together and part of me wanted to help push them along a little faster.

I do not know what I find the most fascinating about the Amish, or why I do, but lately it is most of what I enjoy reading about. It's not just about the people but almost like stepping into a bygone era of time. I enjoy the community aspect of them as well. Everyone helps everyone. Everyone pitches in.

I also loved Mary's mom and dad. They were so loving and understanding. I loved that they fussed over her, even when it frustrated her. And Mary's brothers and Reuben's sister Eliza were all a complete joy.

I loved the message that the story brought, of hope and trust. It made my heart feel warm and fuzzy. I loved the ending as well, I wish it was a little longer though!

I highly highly recommend this book and all of them in the series.

Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Anne Blackburne for the ability to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone.

Loved reading the inspirational and awesome story. Even though Dr. Reuben King is a Mennonite doctor, and Mary Yoder is a baptized Amish woman, Rueben and Mary are attracted to each other with growing feelings and don't know if there is a way for them to be together. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read riveting romance story.

I loved that Mary has such a great attitude despite the difficulties that she's experienced. Reuben is such a patient doctor and is so selfless. I always enjoy a story where it appears that there is no way that the characters can be together and the progression along the way. It was so fun to "see" Lydia again, she is such a great character.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

Absolutely Wonderful

Mary's Calico Hope is full of faith, hope, and romance, and that description fits the book to a T. The book also has wonderful characters, which author Anne Blackburne exceptionally describes in a way that just draws you into the story. 

In Mary's case, I could feel her strength and determination, as well as her hurts and fears. But most of all, I could feel her strong faith as she always looked to God's will. Even when God's will left her feeling like nothing would work out in a certain way, she stayed true to her conviction while pressing forward. 

As for Reuben, his deep care and kindness truly touched my heart. And just like Mary, his trust in God's will kept him true to his faith and convictions, even when he had no clue where the path would take him. 

More than anything, Mary and Reuben's interactions and conversations deeply touched me as they got to know each other. Watching their relationship blossom was so sweet and endearing, even when they knew it might not go anywhere. But again, God's will was always at work, and that brought in a little unexpected twist from an unexpected source. It was the icing on the cake, which added an extra special touch, that made this such a wonderful story. 

Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

The fourth book in The Heart of the Amish Series, this book is a quick, enjoyable read.

If God wills. is a phrase seen throughout this book that centers around faith, hope, healing, doubt, fear and romance.

Main character, Amish girl, Mary Yoder, who was injured in an accident when she was a child, has had to go through many surgeries on her legs and spine and still lives in pain daily and still has to walk with crutches. New Dr.Reuben, who is a Mennonite, comes to town. He meets Mary and feels that there much be some new procedures available to help her mobility. After research, he finds a procedure and presents it to Mary, who is hesitant since the last two surgeries she had did not help at all.

A deep friendship develops, but they know there cannot be anything between them since Mary is Amish and Reuben is Mennonite. If God wills, plays into the decisions Mary must make for further surgery, and Reuben has to make if he wants to return to the Amish upbringing he had grown up with but would require him to give up being a doctor. It seems impossible that they can have a future together with so many obstacles, including a busy body lady in the church that runs to the bishop trying to ruin the reputation of both Mary and Reuben. Many prayers are raised to God to see what His will is concerning these areas of their lives. Can there be an amicable solution to their relationship?

I enjoyed this so much and would highly recommend it to those who enjoy reading Amish romances. I received a copy of this book from Barbour and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read Mary’s Calico hope by Anne Blackburn. The opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.

Ms. Blackburn takes us on an exciting journey though the lives of Mary Yoder, an Amish young woman who had been injured in a buggy accident when she was only Four years old. The accident left her in pain, and the Dependency up on crutches, in order to walk, and Mennonite doctor Reuben KIng, who has a desire to help Mary overcome some of her major difficulties by recommending a new surgery that has the potential to help her.

The characters are wonderfully developed, and so realistic you read through the story. The plot and theme are well developed.

We can see that there is a attraction between Mary and Reuben from first Encounter, but that idea needs to be left alone because she is a baptized Amish and he is Mennonite.

As we follow the struggles of these two, we are shown that God is still in control of his perfect plan. He knows the outcome long before we do.

I highly recommend this 5-star read and can’t wait to read more from this outstanding new author.

Mary has no expectations of marriage after a childhood buggy accident left her with 2 crutches and pain. She has made a good life for herself living in her family's Dawdi Haus, raising chickens, creating baskets, and fly fishing lures. The new Mennonite doctor Reuben KIng believes that there are new procedures that could help Mary walk easier and decrease her pain. Mary isn't sure about going through another surgery that might not help or might make things worse. Reuben is attracted to Mary's beauty and her character. With their differences in religion, he isn't sure how they will have a future. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. This is a sweet Amish romance that I really enjoyed. I really liked Mary and Reuben because they are both caring and honorable. I was rooting for them to find a way to be together.

This was a very interesting book and it dealt with a woman who had gotten injured in a buggy accident when she was four years old. The accident claimed the life of her father and left her crippled for life. Even though Mary has had many surgeries none of them made her able to walk without crutches and constant pain. The book takes place when Mary is 29 years old. She lives at home but independently in her grandparent’s house next door to her parents. She is able to do her daily chores and is loved by her community. She also has several small jobs that bring her in a decent income. One day there’s a knock on the door and it is the new Mennonite doctor who is seeking directions. Mary talks to him and he immediately notices her disability. The story centers around them getting to know each other, the problems they face with their religions, and a new surgery that should help her only rely on a cane and help the level of her pain. I give this book 5 stars and highly recommend it.

What a beautiful story of a couple who has to overcome great odds in their own lives as well as in order to be together. When it seems impossible they turn to prayer and God’s will to guide them. Of course there is always at least one crusty old crabby lady who try’s to thwart their efforts.

Mary’s Calico Hope is the fifth installment from the multi author series, The Heart of the Amish. Anne Blackburne's contribution is full of faith and delight. I loved getting to know the main characters, Mary and Reuben. It is a sweet story that made want to continue to turn the pages up until the very end. It was easy reading the whole book in one sitting. A wonderful way to spend a cold, rainy day.

I am giving Mary’s Calico Hope five stars. I believe lovers of clean Amish Romance will not pass up on this one. I am looking forward to the next installment from The Heart of the Amish series, Lisa Jones Baker's Serenity's Secret.

I received a copy of Anne Blackburne's Mary’s Calico Hope from the publisher but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Mary's Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne has such engaging characters that rely on God's plan for their lives. Mary, injured as a toddler in a buggy accident that claimed her father's life, lives with pain and an inability to walk on her own. When she is presented with the option of a new surgery by the new doctor, will she trust in God's plan or be too afraid to take the chance? Will the new doctor, a Mennonite, be a temptation Mary cannot resist? Or is everything all in God's plan? I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Barbour Publishing for this book.

Anne Blackburne is a new Amish writer for me. I throughly enjoyed reading Mary's story and watching the romance develop between her and the menonite doctor, Reuben King.

It was a beautiful story. I love how not all the Amish characters are portrayed as straight laced and perfect. The gossiping bussybody woman is a perfect example.

The writer did an excellent job and I look forward to discovering and reading more books by Anne Blackburne.

This was a wonderfully done romance novel, it had everything that I was looking for and enjoyed how well everything flowed well. The characters were wonderfully done and were realistic in the story. I enjoyed the way Anne Blackburne writes and creates a strong story to it. It was a great fifth book in the Heart of the Amish series.

Mary’s Calico Hope is a wonderful story about overcoming tragedy and having Faith.

When we do not know if there will be a way, in God’s timing he makes a way. This story is about trusting in God and having faith and hope.

Mary and Reuben coming from two different religions, Amish and Mennonite. They cannot be together without one of them getting hurt. They stay faithful to their faith and God makes a way!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, opinions express in this review are completely my own.

I was hooked when I read the first sentence of the description, “If God wills it, Mary Yoder will do it, even if that means using crutches for the rest of her life.” The rest of the description settled it. Had to request this one.

Mary was badly injured in a buggy accident as a child and has gone through more operations than you or I want to think about. That same accident took her father’s life. Mary is 29 and lives in the Dawdi Haus. She is in pain, well, all of the time. Sometimes worse than others. She is blessed with a little calico kitty named Hope, a gift from a friend Lydia Coblentz. I met Lydia in Ruth’s Ginger Snap Surprise by the same author. Hope, the calico cat, will make you smile throughout the book.

An Amish man becomes a doctor. Of course, he’s not Amish anymore — he is Mennonite. He has taken over the practice of Doc Smith. His name is Reuben King. I found it amusing that upon meeting the dokter, Mary’s mother comments that Mennonite isn’t THAT far from Amish. I guess she really would like to see Mary married. And so would Mary but she knows the chances of that happening are remote.

Mary makes fishing flies to sell. Unique ones and they sell! She raises special roosters for their feathers. This reviewer has never fly-fished. Cane pole, cork that bobs, and a worm on a hook, yep. And I had to dig for the worms. Turns out Reuben had never fly-fished either.

Yes, you can tell what’s about to happen. But it is HOW it happens that makes Mary’s Calico Hope special. You will love Mary, Reuben, and Lydia. A section deals with courage. You want to know what courage is? Mary’s definition is exceptional. “It’s smiling when your heart is breaking so you don’t force your troubles onto other people.”

Reuben is well-meaning. He believes Mary can have more mobility and less pain with another surgery — but at times, he puts his foot in his mouth up to his kneecap. How Reuben went from being an Amish teen to being a doctor is believable. Mary struggles with having another surgery — for good reason.

When I read any book, some passages or words trigger memories. One of those was buckwheat pancakes. I hadn’t thought of this in years. My daddy LOVED buckwheat pancakes. I couldn’t stand ’em. Tasted gritty to me but the second I read those words I started smiling.

I forgot to mention THAT woman. The one who always has an opinion is a busybody, loves to gossip, and tattles to the bishop. She doesn’t bother to get her facts straight. If it could be seen as BAD, she’s in hog heaven.

Hope’s observance and thoughts perfectly end the book.

Okay, okay. I had a beautiful calico cat when I was a teenager. His name was Butterly and he loved to lay on top of my old upright piano while I practiced. Everything. But Butterfly HATED one piece, Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in C# minor. The minute I started playing it — the piece begins with huge, crashing chords — Butterfly would turn, if necessary, to the treble part of the piano. With much dignity, he would march his way to the end of the keyboard. Then cat pawed his way to the middle of the keyboard and lay his whole body across my hands and fingers. Why he always regally descended via the treble side? I have no idea.

I liked this story. Loved some of the moments. Loved the memories that popped up. And enjoyed, oh how I enjoyed Amelia’s (THAT woman) comeuppance. All that led to a five-star rating for me.

I received a complimentary DRC (digital review copy) of Mary’s Calico Hope via NetGalley from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 5 stars
Series: The Heart of the Amish, #6
Cover: Just okay. The cat is NOT a calico.
Pages: Unknown at time of review but probably about same length as book #2 in the series by Ms. Blackburne which was 258.
Publish Date: 1 June 2024
#MarysCalicoHope #NetGalley #AnneBlackburne