Cover Image: Marrying Jonah

Marrying Jonah

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

Amy Lillard is one of my favorite Amish Fiction authors and Marrying Jonah is part of an amazing series of books from Amy. If you love a great story line with well developed characters and lots of cute twist and turns you will truly enjoy reading this book.

Was this review helpful?

From the very first page right through the epilogue this book held my attention and quickly the pages flew, only now I miss this story and want more. We catch up all those we have come to love in Wells Landing Oklahoma, our tractor driving Amish friends, and see how things have changed and yet stayed the same in their lives.
This is Jonah’s story and the Amish teacher Sarah, a woman who has loved and wanted Jonah forever, and has previously made herself a pest at doing so. Now a moment of compassion and passion and these two are headed for the altar, but do they even have a chance?
What a rocky road these two set upon and you will have to wonder if they will ever end up on the same path? Will Sarah end up the being the “town oddball”, and take in mending? Or will Jonah end up embracing the English life, and leave the community. The answers are here and we are along for the journey that these two take towards, or away for one another, they do both.
I have loved my stay in this community and getting to know everyone here, and really hate to say goodbye, makes me want to go visit Oklahoma.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.

Was this review helpful?

Each book in the wealth landing series gets better and better that's for sure. Jonah and Sarah's story is a difficult one to read because of all of the situations and complications of their life. Several things happened in the story that will warm your heart. One thing that stands out for me is the way Sarah and Jonah's mamm's did everything they could to bring the two of them back together. Especially after Jonah's mamm Gertie was so rude to Sarah in the beginning. I was really annoyed with Gertie because of her attitude toward Sarah.
I appreciate how author Amy Lillard deals with serval difficult situations in this book, and waves them together to show that God can work his miracles and even the most difficult situations we face.
I received this book from The author, Amy Lillard to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

Was this review helpful?

In this book Sarah has always loved Jonah but he loves someone else. Sarah finally gives up on getting Jonah's attention and one chance encounter changes both of their lives forever. Because of this encounter they marry out of convenience but a loss cause a rift between them. Sarah moves back home with her parents thinking Jonah would be better without her and can leave for the English world. Jonah soon realizes that he loves Sarah and tries without fail to talk to Sarah and tell her but she will have no doings with him. During a snow storm on Valentines day, Sarah leaves a party upset that Jonah is going to sell their home she runs out of gas in the tractor. With luck Jonah finds her and takes her to his parents house because of the snowstorm. Sarah ends up with a high fever and several days later she says she wants to go home. Will Jonah be able to convince her that he loves her or not.
I loved this book. I had to keep reading to find out what happened. It is a must read and we find out that things are not as they seem.

Was this review helpful?

Worth the Wait!

Well it finally arrived! Jonah Miller’s story is finally being told! Marrying Jonah, the latest in Amy Lillard’s Wells Landing series, is worth the wait. Once you get started, you’ll be sucked in.

Jonah Miller is still recovering from Lorie Kauffman’s rejection (not only of him, but their entire Amish community.) Sarah Yoder has loved Jonah for YEARS. But those days are over – she’s turning over a new leaf and leaving Jonah behind. But the results of one great misjudgment put both of their lives into a tailspin. Will they find true love? Will Jonah stay Amish? He wouldn’t be the first to jump the fence from Wells Landing. Will beauty come from the ashes? Read and find out!

I was given Marrying Jonah in exchange for my honest review. It was so worth the wait. At first I was unsure what to make of it – the plot reminded me of another Amish-genre novel I have read recently and it seemed to move slow. And then I realized: NO, it is not like the other novel (at all) – it’s better! Lillard steadily created some very unforgettable characters. Marrying Jonah is a solid, well-crafted novel. The characters have rich layers and depth. Before you know it, the novel is over and you’re craving for more. The ending was well thought-out and memorable. A definite must-read.

(Although characters from previous novels are mentioned, it is not distracting. This title may be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend catching up on the Wells Landing crew!)

Was this review helpful?

They were married bound for life. The only thing that they had in common was time. All things change with time. A farmer's mentality, with time, seeds became plants, and plants became more. With time the seasons changed. All things with time.

Sarah Yoder has always loved Jonah from afar. A crush that was well known in the community but never returned. However, circumstances change between them when they both needed a friend and in their weakness; they succumb to a bad decision that they cannot deny because of their faith and the Amish way.

To make it right, they both agree to marriage and in their young marriage must learn to trust each other. There is much tension as they both fight their hurt and misunderstanding to make a life a together. It speaks of what love really is where there is no love but only mistrust. How each of them comes to discover love not in the emotional way but a way that is eternal.

I loved this story and the how the pain turned something ugly to something beautiful and lovely. How Jonah and Sarah became intentional above love and commitment and discovered the fruit that last forever. I highly recommend.

A Special Thank You to Kensington and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

When consequences of a choice that happened, changes more than one life, and it can't be taken back, the only consequence is to follow through. Marriage is forever in the Amish communities. Death till you part.

This is Jonah Miller's and Sarah Yoder's story. Jonah was in love with Lorie Kauffman, who is now English and married, while Sarah is in love with Jonah, or so she thought. Sarah gets tired of waiting on Jonah to notice her, so she commits herself to her second year of teaching.

One night, Jonah does take a notice, absence of a human-being being around you, to Sarah.
Will it be too late for Jonah to gain Sarah's full attention?

"Marrying Jonah" is book number six in the Wells Landing series. "Marrying Jonah" by Amy Lillard is where a reader fan can catch up on the character from Wells Landing. Amy keeps the detailed words flowing from page one to pages ending the book. Easy flow moving story of love doesn't always come easy, some times you have to fight to make a marry work, and some times you REALLY have to fight and work HARD to all the loving connections with your partner come together. Marriages have up and downs; they are not always roses.

I love Marrying Jonah; think it's my favorite so far out of the Wells Landing series. I have loved reading this inspirational series, getting to know all of the characters, learning different life lessons, and also reading the updates on past main characters in the other books as they are read. I do look forward to reading more books written by Amy Lillard.

I received a free copy from NetGalley with the only request to write an honest review about the book. No money was exchanged. This is my review written in my own words.

Was this review helpful?

Marrying Jonah by Amy Lillard is the sixth book in the Wells Landing series. Sarah Yoder has been smitten with Jonah and everyone knows it. But Jonah is in love with Lorie Kauffman. Unfortunately, Lorie decided to leave the Amish and recently married another. Jonah is still pining for Lorie. Sarah has decided to turn over a new leaf. She is going to ignore Jonah and find a way to move on. One night after a youth event, Jonah happens upon Sarah who is walking home (the young man who was driving her home became fresh). While driving Sarah home, Sarah asks if they cannot find a way to be friends. They end up stopping by the lake to talk, and Jonah ends up seeking comfort from Sarah. Six weeks later, Sarah discovers that she is with child. Jonah does the honorable thing and offers to marry Sarah (after adjusting to the news). She wanted Jonah as her husband, but Sarah wanted him to love her. The last thing she wants is a man who does not love her in return. Unfortunately, they are not given an alternative and are quickly married. The marriage gets off to a rocky start when the pair must live with Jonah’s parents. Gertie Miller, Jonah’s mother, is not partial to Sarah and makes her feelings quite evident. Jonah decides to make things easier by finding a house for them. Slowly, Jonah begins to see the kind, caring and lovable woman he married. But then tragedy strikes, and it looks like their relationship is doomed. Is there a chance for these two-young people? If they are to have a future, Jonah needs to prove his love to Sarah and open the lines of communication.

Marrying Jonah is a sweet and nicely written Amish novel. I liked the characters and the storyline. It was interesting to see Jonah’s reaction to Sarah once she quit paying attention to him. The book had a good flow and can be read in a few hours. There are some good lessons in this novel (forgiveness, doing the right thing). Readers get to see how important love and communication are to a relationship. While Marrying Jonah is the sixth book in the series, it can be read alone. Each book is about a different set of characters. I give Marrying Jonah 4 out of 5 stars. I did become frustrated at times at the lack of communication between Sarah and Jonah. I wanted to tell these two to grow up and start talking. Sarah, though, did not make things easy for Jonah. Marrying Jonah is my favorite book in the series. It is a moving novel with a special ending. I really appreciated the epilogue and how the author provided updates on the characters from the other novels in the Wells Landing series.

Was this review helpful?

Marrying Jonah is part of the Wells Landing series. I have read most of the series as each can be read as a standalone. I enjoy visiting Wells Landing and all of the families that live there.

In Marrying Jonah, we follow the love story of Sarah and Jonah. Sarah has loved Jonah for a long time. He, however, only had eyes for another. When circumstances make it impossible for him to marry his love, he realizes he must move on. One fateful night will change both of their lives forever. Will Jonah be able to look beyond his love for Lorie and see the real Sarah? Can Sarah make Jonah love her? As we see this story unfold, it brings to mind what forgiveness and looking beyond the bad is really about.

I love how Amy Lillard brings her characters to life. We not only see what they are doing but feel what they are feeling. We read their thoughts and feel the hurt, love, sadness, and joy which they are living. It is like really being inside the community of Wells Landing. Her books bring a realistic side into a little understood culture. I highly recommend any and all of her books for the reader who enjoys actually living their books.
I received a copy through Netgalley. The review is my own thoughts and feelings.

Was this review helpful?

Marrying Jonah is an absolutely beautiful love story. I was immediately pulled into the story. The book has an excellent plot and well thought out characters.

Was this review helpful?

I think that this was one of my favorite books in this series. I love Sarah and Jonah. They battle through many troubles before the end of this book. They learn many lessons. I did not want to put this book down. I read this when I wasn't feeling great and this still kept my interest. As always Amy Lillard did not disappoint me. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Was this review helpful?

Amy Lillard's last installment in the outstanding Well's Landing series deals with a very relevant topic. Marrying Jonah allows us to enter the lives of Sarah and Jonah. With them we see their lives begin to crumble and their beliefs questioned. It is a tale of lost innocence, adult expectations, wavering faith, and hope for a better future.

Sarah Yoder has loved Jonah as far back as she can remember. She has chased after him to no avail. Jonah's heart belonged to another. He was deeply and whole heartedly in love with Lorie. However, fate can be cruel. Lorie leaves the Amish and marries into the outside world. Jonah is devastated. His life is in pieces, his goal is just to make it through one day at a time. Sarah is tired of waiting and gives up on Jonah until circumstances throw them together. They make one error in judgement which changes their lives forever.

This story rips at your heart in many ways. You feel the couples sadness and hurt. Your anger is stirred when neither wants to change or listen to the other. Hope arises when they seem to be getting along in marriage only to be crushed do to their shattering loss. God's grace and mercy is needed to get Sarah and Jonah through this difficult time, will they hand over their lives to Him? Marrying Jonah is an excellent novel. I highly recommend it.

I received a copy from Netgalley and the author in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

What a beautiful and emotional story the author has written. I love everything about her writing. She makes the characters so real you feel a part of the story. The author delivers a powerful story about a young couple filled with turmoil , pride and forgiveness. I enjoyed the depth of emotions that the author explored with the characters. Some may think that the Amish have a simple life with no problems but through the authors eyes she shows us real problems that couples face even among the Amish.


Sarah has loved Jonah forever it seems. She has always dreamed of being with him, but his heart has always belonged to Lorie. It is hard for Sarah to see them together but she must face the harsh truth that Jonah is in love with Lorie. I loved Sarah and thought she was a great character. I felt sad for her as she yearned for Jonah. Have you ever loved someone and they didn't feel the same way?

Jonah thought everything was great between him and Lorie. It must have been a shock to find out that the love of his life has run off with someone else. His heart is broken and knows he has to try to get over Lorie. One evening he runs into Sarah and their lives are changed forever. Have you ever done something you wish you could go back and undo? For Sarah and Jonah they have no choice but to marry. Sarah should be happy that she is marrying Jonah, but she feels little happiness on her wedding day.

As they adjust to married life tragedy strikes. It is a very emotional time for the couple and Sarah especially is having a difficult time. I was surprised how Sarah became so distant from Jonah and seemed to decide that he didn't love her. The author really does a great job of letting Sarah experience different emotions . I must say I was a bit sad as I read how this couple struggled with their feelings. Sarah seemed especially hard on Jonah and I wanted to tell her to stop being so stubborn. One of the things Sarah and Jonah lacked was communication and I loved how the author made that a focal point in the story.

It is a very touching and at times heartbreaking story. Will Sarah and Jonah stay together? Can they get past their pride and share their feelings with each other? You don't want to miss this story that shows how a couple struggles with their marriage and through prayer and guidance will try to find their way to forgiveness and reconciliation.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

Was this review helpful?

A beautifully enriching story showing love doesn't come easy no matter who you are. When the unexpected happens, being forced into marriage is something neither Jonah or Sarah wants. Jonah knows Sarah is a kind soul and has a heart of gold. She is a beautifully strong willed woman who doesn't feel that Jonah loves her or wants to be married to her.A beautifully written romance showing how the struggles are real but faith,forgiveness and perseverance wins in the end.
Pub Date 28 Mar 2017.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Books for a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Was this review helpful?

This is book 6 in the Wells Landing Series. I've been lucky enough to read every one of the books. I am kind of thinking that this was my absolute favorite one! It was a book I COULD NOT PUT DOWN!

In this story Sarah and Jonah's relationship is a truly difficult one and definitely has many trials to overcome. It is a story of not-so-perfect people, both hoping for a better situation. It's a story of romance, trust, mistrust and forgiveness. I think it crosses through almost every emotion.

The story is not your everyday Amish story line. It was so good. I know you will love it!

I received a copy of this book from the Author for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Very enjoyable addition to the Wells Landing series. Sarah had loved Jonah for ages but had given up on him until the unexpected happens. Being married to Jonah was nothing like she had anticipated. Since Amish do not divorce, it was interesting to see how the author wrapped up this story.

Was this review helpful?

Amy Lillard has written six books in the series, The Wells Landing Series. “Marrying Jonah” is the sixth book. These stories written about the Wells Landing community and its Amish residents portray life within the confines of the Amish religion. Sarah Yoder has been smitten with Jonah Miller for years, even as a young girl. But Jonah only has eyes for Lorie, who is torn between the English and Amish worlds and finally makes her decision to leave the community. Jonah still loves Lori and is not ready to take on a new love.

Sarah happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time when Jonah takes her to talk by the pond that they used to frequent as children. Her loving heart and his grieving heart come together and in comforting each other, they go over the line of good sense. After a few weeks, Sarah finds that she is pregnant and tells Jonah who reluctantly makes things right by marrying her. They both go through the shunning and the public confession that will let them stay in the church’s good graces. However, that does not mean that their marriage will be easy and happy.

Join Amy Lillard as she shows how doing the right thing isn’t always easy or rewarding. I enjoyed the book and the other books in this series.

I received a print advance reader’s copy of this book from NightOwlReviews.com in return for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

Marrying Jonah is the unconventional and somewhat unexpected love story of Jonah and Sarah. Jonah and Sarah find themselves in a sudden relationship and this book tells the story of their struggles to make it as a newly married couple. In my honest opinion, I did not feel a strong connection to Sarah and Jonah and they were actually quite annoying characters. I do, however, appreciate the plot of this book. The storyline was great...I just felt like something was missing. I also appreciate the happy ending. I would read more of this author's books in the future because I am an Amish fiction fan. I appreciate having the chance to read this eBook through NetGalley.

Was this review helpful?

Marrying Jonah is book six from the Wells Landing series. I found this book to be the hardest to read of the series. Some of the plot I was able to really relate to and it tugged at my heart. Definitely worth a read. Four stars

Was this review helpful?

Through Amy Lillard, I enjoy reading these books set in an Amish community in Oklahoma, certainly a non traditional area for Amish. Though the Amish are now settling in more states around the country in efforts to expand beyond farming or to find more fertile farmland. The fictional community of Wells Landing seems to reflect their desire to try to live off the land as much as possible while still embracing some necessary limited technology. In "Marrying Jonah", we become reacquainted with Jonah, who was Lorie Kauffman's boyfriend before she left Wells Landing for her newly discovered "English" family and new love. Jonah is trying to recover from Lorie's departure, and is uncomfortable around the local teacher Sarah-- Sarah has never made it a secret that she cares for him. One night they begin talking while at a youth gathering, and the unintended occurs. This leads to Jonah proposing out of honor. Jonah and Sarah marry amidst the concern of both their families, in their desire to do what is right. They strive to find a way to become closer to each other for the sake of the baby she is carrying. Just when a brighter future seems possible for them as a couple, a tragedy occurs. Their different ways of facing tragedy lead to misunderstanding and hurt on both sides. I encourage readers to pick up "Marrying Jonah" to learn what happens between Sarah and Jonah and how they find their way after tragedy and loss. Amy Lillard, as always, weaves a multifaceted and beautiful story.

Was this review helpful?