I’ve read many good books this year and loved them. But this book—this book captured my whole heart. I laughed in parts at Luke Schrock and the great change that came into his life, but I was also moved to tears several times through this story. I’ll explain that in just a minute. But first, I want to write a note to two separate groups of readers.

To those of you who are reading a book from Suzanne Woods Fisher’s Amish series for the first time; The characters in this book have appeared in several of her series. You’ll understand more of their backstory if you’ve read those books, (especially Luke and Izzy’s stories) but it really isn’t necessary to read this one. You’ll be able to enjoy and love this story as it is.

To those of you who have kept up with these characters throughout these series: You are going to LOVE this one. Luke Schrock has been one of my favorite characters for a long time, and in this book he comes full circle from being a public nuisance to embracing his relationship with God on a whole different level. There’s a storyline about Luke and Izzy’s marriage and the challenges they face. But there’s so much more than that, as the Amish community takes in, on an emergency basis, several foster care children. This changes several lives of characters that we’ve know before. A sweet character we love faces a health care crisis; and and there’s still a couple of characters who are seeking God’s guidance in their lives.

As much as I love all the above, what touched me the most was the emphasis on Psalm 23 all throughout the book. Suzanne FIsher did an outstanding job bringing that Psalm to life in the lives of this Amish community. Although I laughed at Luke at times, these lessons from Psalm 23 as acted out in the lives of these characters brought me to tears at times. And the ending to this story is a total, unexpected surprise. It was with great reluctance that I finished reading this book and I’m already wishing for the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Stitches in Time by Author Suzanne Woods Fisher is Amish Christian Fiction at its best. Author Fisher is an expert wordsmith and masterfully weaves a captivating tale. It is engaging and so interesting that I could not put it down. It is about God doesn’t call the qualified but qualify the called.

There were so many relevant life lessons in the powerhouse of a book. Foster-care is discussed in all aspects. Marriage is dissected. Silence verses opening up is discussed as is being truthful.

If you are a longtime fan, there will be many familiar names pop up in the lovely book. For me it felt like a friendly reunion. Characters are so well described that the are like friends well before the end of the book. I am invested in their lives. In fact, I want to chat up on all the latest news while the new stuff is happening.

This tale had a strong spiritual message which I really appreciate in any Christian book. It had plenty of scripture, life lessons, and taught me things I did not know. Parts of it made me chuckle, angry, sad, and want to rejoice. This is the most different, yet refreshing, Amish story I have ever read.

There is a yummy recipe at the end. I am going to try that tomorrow. That is followed by a sneak peek for her next week. Then you will find Discussion Questions. Book Clubs, get this book! There is a lot to ponder and discuss. The author has included some notes, too. Be sure to read the section on Foster Care.

Anyone will glean something from this skillfully crafted novel. I highly recommend it. I think everyone will adore it. Even if you are an Amish fan, you will love this book. It gets a 5 out of 5 rating from me. I received a copy from NetGalley but these are my honest thoughts.