Amy Lillard is a fantastic author and I thoroughly enjoyed her newest book, A Love for Leah. The book is well written with believable characters. Enjoyed the plot and the Mississippi setting. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC. This is my unbiased review.

We return to Pontotoc, Mississippi in book two of the Amish of Pontotoc series by Amy Lillard. In A Love for Leah we return to the lives of the Gingerich sisters. Leah has returned to Pontotoc but she is not there to rejoin the church. She has joined the Mennonite church and really feels like she belongs.
Jamie, a single Amish man, has recently moved to Pontotoc with his nephew who has recently overcome a devastating house fire where he was the only survivor. I really admired this character. It is great to see a strong Christian lead that has a tender heart and a longing to follow God’s call. I also loved little Peter and my heart broke for the trauma and turmoil that a young boy was going through.
I liked the interaction between Leah and Jamie. They are both strong characters that are not afraid to speak their mind and air their beliefs. It was interesting to really hear the differences between the two faiths laid out the way Leah did.
I loved how Amy continued to talk about faith throughout the novel. I especially liked how one character questioned their faith and if they had enough. It really hits home with readers as we have all questioned our faith and our patience to wait upon the Lord.
I really liked how Leah’s church got together to share the love of God by painting rocks and placing them around town. This new craze has sweep the country and it was refreshing to see how someone could use something so simple to spread God’s Word and love.
I did wish that there was a little more to the story. I wouldn’t have minded reading a longer novel to get a little more detail at the end. All in all, though, it was a great book that I felt could be a stand alone novel but would go better if you read the first book in the series, A Home for Hannah.
I received a copy of this novel from netgalley.com and Kensington Books in return for my honest review.

I really enjoyed reading the difference between the Amish and Mennonites. I didn't realize how much more modern thinking the Mennonites were. It was so interesting to get to know more about their culture. There is a saying I have heard before that fits this story perfectly. The saying is "Opposites Attract." I just wonder if Leah believes that?

Leah is Mennonite but her family is Amish. She is very independent and sure doesn't mind speaking her mind. I loved her ability to take up for herself and loved the times she shared with her family. Her shop is prosperous and seems to being going well for her.The question is , is she really happy?

Jamie is a great character and I admired his dedication to his nephew. When they move next door to Leah's family, they welcome him except maybe Leah. He sure has his hands full trying to make friends with her. They think differently and Leah is quick to give her opinion of how Jamie can best help his nephew Peter. This makes for some heated arguments that cause friction between them. I loved how the author talked about faith and how one of the characters questioned if they had enough faith to trust Him. It is hard sometimes to wait on God, but I find when I don't I mess things up.

The story gets exciting when Jamie's ex- girlfriend shows up unannounced. Is that jealousy I see on Leah? Deborah doesn't take no for an answer from Jamie and continues to persuade him to come back home and marry her. I loved how the author brought out the tension between them and how Jamie turned to God for answers. It's a great story that shows how much someone is willing to fight for the person they love. Leah has so many reasons why her and Jamie won't work out, but will she turn to God to help her discover what is best for her?

There is a part in the story that really intrigued me. It's a very unique way to share God's word and I thought it was such a great idea that I have decided to do it as well. There is nothing better to know God hasn't forgotten you when you discover an unexpected word from Him in a way you never expected. Jamie has a lot of anger about his nephew not willing to speak. Can someone show him that God is the answer?

I loved the story for several reasons. The author showed us the differences between Amish and Mennonite beliefs but the bottom line she emphasized is that we all love God. Jamie and Leah came from different backgrounds but the author elegantly delivered the message that God is who they serve and believe in. Is it possible for two different beliefs to come together and marry? I also liked the pulling apart between Leah and Jamie. There were times I thought they needed a time out. It reminds me of my husband. We are so opposite and boy does he have his hands full with me, but unconditional love prevails. I won't tell you if Leah and Jamie get together, but I will say that this is the best book the author has written.

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

3.5 stars is the rating I will give A Love For Leah by Amy Lillard. This is a sequel to the book A Home For Hannah.
The things I loved about this book:

1. Lillard writes characters that make the reader care for them and their plight. I instantly felt for little Peter and Jamie.
2. I loved Leah’s extended family and the care and compassion they showed Peter and Jamie.
3. I truly love a good Christian book. This one is a mix of Amish and Christian fiction which was a first for me!

The things I didn’t like about this book:

1. This is a sequel but there is no mention of that fact. I had to do a Google search to find out! A lot of the back story is alluded too but not filled in. Many authors make it easy to read a sequel without having to read the first book in the series. Reading “A Home For Hannah” first really is a must in order to understand much of the plot.

2. Leah’s reluctance’s to go back to the Amish baffled me throughout most of the book. No real reason was given until nearly the end of the story as to why she didn’t want to return to the Amish.

3. The love story between Leah and Jamie felt very forced. They argue non-stop and all of a sudden, they are in love?? It was just off-putting.

I do recommend this book for a number of reasons. It is a good, clean Christian book. For the person who enjoys Amish/Mennonite fiction, this book is for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. #ALoveForLeah #NetGalley

I love Amy Lillard books. Her characters draw you in while her storylines are easy to follow and very relatable. A Love for Leah continues the series Amish of Pontotoc. We follow the Gingerich family in this series. The first book followed Hannah and her journey back to her family. In this story we follow her sister Leah. Both left when they were young. Leah became settled in a progressive Mennonite community close to home. She feels that she can really embrace their beliefs. However, she becomes confused when she finds herself enjoying the family traditions of her old Amish life. Adding to the confusion is Jamie Stoltzfus. He is an old order Amish such as her parents. However, he is stirring feelings inside of her that she didn't think she would ever feel. Meanwhile, after a devastating tragedy, Jamie is feeling lost and confused. He is trying to raise his nephew. Clinging to his old ways is what he feels is necessary. However, Leah's feisty and carefree ways are appealing to him. Will they be able to find a common ground? Will their love be enough? I received a copy through Netgalley. A positive review was not required.

I was hoping we would get Leah's story next!!

This was a very interesting but also believable story about two people from similar religions who happen to fall in love. In their world the couple must be in the same church for a marriage to occur. Watching the two of them not only tackle their attraction to each other (which they both denied) but then try to figure out how they could be together in the long term kept this story interesting.

My only complaint was the ending; it felt rushed to me. I would have liked to read a little more, maybe an epilogue. Where did everyone end up living? How did Jamie end up adapting to his new life?

Living not far from the Pontotoc Amish, and having visited their community, I was quite excited to read Amy Lillard’s first story in her new series, A Home for Hannah and really enjoyed it. However, this one, A Love for Leah, is my favorite of the two. It was just so good. I don’t know much about the Mennonite faith so I was excited to learn more. Also, Leah was just a great character. Her hopes and dreams and feelings and faith all seemed to mirror moments in my own life. And her relationship with Jamie also showed so much growth and love as they struggled to see where God wanted them and His will for their lives. I truly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one in the series! If you love Amish fiction then this is a great read. You won’t be disappointed!
I received a free copy of this story from NetGalley for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own!

Leah is the Mennonite daughter of an Amish family. Several years ago, Hanah, Leah's twin sister, wanted to leave home, so Leah went with her knowing that Hannah would come back to the family and to the church. When Leah came back home, she'd joined the Mennonite church where she found more peace than she's ever had before.

When Jamie moves to town with his mute nephew, he's hoping to find healing for Peter. It is when Peter is with Leah that he begins talking again. Leah is not really interested in Jamie at first because he's Amish and she's not willing to leave the Mennonites.

Amy Lillard did such a wonderful job on this book, it was an incredible pleasure to read. I learned some things about the Amish I didn't know before, and I learned a bit about the Mennonites. I watched the characters define themselves by their beliefs and by their own closeness to God. It is always inspirational to see a character grow and learn things from his/her growth that I can apply to my own life.

Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and the joy of finding Jesus Christ as your own!

Penguinn/Random House provided the galley I read through NetGalley.com. I appreciate the opportunity they provided me.

A Love for Leah, book two from the Amish of Pontotoc series, is a good read. I recommend it for Amish fiction books and I give it four stars.

I love Amish fiction. I have for more than 25 years. I really like Amy Lilliards writing style. She certainly knows her subject. I loved the characters. If you love Amish and Mennonite fiction, this book is one you will love. I highly recommend it. Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for an Arc. The review is my opinion.

Amy Lillard's books are a pleasure to read! I love curling up with one of her novels, and returning to the characters she writes about with such depth that I feel they are old friends. In A Love for Leah, readers are re-introduced to Leah, in Pontotoc, Mississippi, which is a very conservative Amish community. Leah is now Mennonite, but has reunited with her close Amish family, including her twin sister Hannah.
Leah's family has embraced Jamie, who is new to Pontotoc, along with his young nephew Peter. Jamie is now raising Peter after Peter's parents have died in a fire. Jamie feels helpless and powerless to help Peter with his grief, and to help Peter be willing to speak again. When Leah and Jamie meet there is instant chemistry, but also instant antagonism, as Jamie does not have much tolerance for a former Amish person turned Mennonite. He is extremely mistrusting of Leah's motives as she seeks to help him with Peter. Jamie is also quite caught up in the "rules" and "regulations" of Amish life, but has closed himself off to other opinions and to the joy of community living. Leah seeks to open his mind at the same time she seeks to help Peter.
I invite fellow readers and fans of the Amish genre to read "A Love for Leah". I believe you will wholeheartedly enjoy this novel.

I really adored this story very good! It's story about Amish and Mennonite combined. Leah fell in love with Jamie she didn't even know it, tried to help Peter his nephew who Jamie had custody over. Find out more you'll have to get your copy..I love amy lillard books have to have a copy every time one comes out...

Love Amy Lillard's books. This book is another winner from her. I enjoy reading about the Amish way of life and their trials and troubles and romances. Amy does her research, and writes amazing books. Keep up the great work!

Leah left the Amish society years ago. She is now a Mennonite. When she goes home to visit she meets Jamie who holds the Amish culture dear
Jamie is taking care of his nephew Peter who has been through some trauma and is mute. He is trying his best to care for his nephew. Leah's family has been helpful but he can't seem to get along with Leah who is so opinionated.
When they begin to fall for each other their attachment to their faith and culture stands in the way.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was funny in a number of places.
I however felt cheated in the resolution of the impasse as i didn't see how Jamie became questioning. Trying not to drop some spoilers and I hope I am making sense.
I would recommend this to friends who love Christian romance without hesitation
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read this.
This is my honest opinion.

Another great read by Amy Lillard. I always look forward to her stories and she never disappoints me.
A wonderful set of new characters and Leah finally gets to tell her story.
I finished this book in two sittings it was that good!!
The only thing I didn't like were Jamie's and Leah's stubborn personalities. Especially where Leah kept saying she's Mennonite and he's Amish. It got on my nerves because I wanted to knock their heads together sooooo bad!!
I believe if two people are attracted to each other and they really and truly care for each other then to me, it shouldn't matter.
Love is strong. Love is faithful. That's my belief.
I still think Brandon is special. I don't know why. He's like any typical teenager. Sort of reminds me of my son. Maybe that's why I"m attached to him. One minute they can be the best kid or kids you ever raised and then mooooood swing!! You never know.
There were many scenes in the book that made me snicker and then laugh outright. I just enjoyed the story for what it was. It's too bad that it had to end so quickly!!
There was a certain place in the book that I cried tho. I sure hate to see a family split up like that.
But, maybe she'll find her way back home. Only the Lord knows.
Thank you Amy for another great story! Please keep writing!!

A great story involving life struggles, emotion and physical pain, finding trust again and learning to love. Differences in backgrounds and family life can cause problems, but the way the characters deal with their circumstances is touching and inspiring. I enjoyed this one. I received a copy of this book and this is my personal honest opinion. No review was required.

This was a sweet book. It's definitely part of a series...I'm guessing that Hannah was the focus of the first book and Gracie will be the focus of the third, just based on what we were already supposed to know...but the author does a good job of bringing us up to speed throughout the story. At it's heart, it's a story about overcoming differences. You've got an Amish and a Mennonite in love, and they have to somehow overcome those differences to be together. You also have a little boy who is desperately in need of love and assistance. I'll be curious to see how the decisions they made at the end of this book, and any consequences thereof, end up playing out in book three.

This was the first book I read by Amy Lillard and I really enjoyed it. I will be looking for more books by this author. I loved how the book ended. Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books Zebra for the ARC copy of this book. This is my honest review of the book.

I had previously read Hannah's story, so was eager to read this one, since Leah is her twin sister. While Hannah decided to go back to the Amish church, Leah did not, and is now a Mennonite. When she meets Jamie, an Amish man raising his 6 year old nephew, the sparks fly. They argue, they consult each other and help each other. I really enjoyed watching them grow together, and really enjoyed this book. The only thing that got a little tiresome was how long it took Leah to finally agree to marry him. Other than that, would highly recommend this great book and series and author. Hopefully Gracie has a book out soon.

Leah, opening her Twice Blessed store, her mantra was “please Lord”.
Her mom was always looking for lost souls, and especially those for marriage, so once again, company for dinner. An uncle and son, after a fire to start over. He questions about her being a Mennonite, yet, it was the closest, to being accepted by the Amish, and her family. Every time she is around Jamie,they clash, and heated words. Though Peter, the young boy was drawn to her, as a need for a mother. Conflict continue to mount, as they are together, till he is asking her to marry. Which means leaving the Amish faith, as she won’t let him. A story that deals into what is the path that God has chosen for each of them. Would it be sacrifices, or a blend of what was important. A powerful story, that readers will enjoy, and one can connect to the people in this. Given ARC by Net Galley and Kensington for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.