Four very well written and entertaining novellas. I enjoyed each selection. My thanks to the publisher for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.

An Amish Picnic is a charming novella collection featuring stories by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller, and Vannetta Chapman. Set in a variety of different Amish communities, this book contains four, unique stories in which picnics shared with friends serve to foster deeper relationships, inspire hope, and even nurture a bit of romance. The novellas in this collection feature genuinely endearing characters who seek to build connections with each other as they overcome insecurities, misunderstandings, and unmet expectations. The characters offer forgiveness, embrace new beginnings, and find more reasons to open their hearts to fresh dreams and unexpected joys.

In each of these novellas, I was thoroughly entertained by the enjoyable stories the authors shared. I easily found interest in the details of each novella as I experienced authentic emotional connections to the characters within each story. Their struggles, perseverance, and faith captivated and encouraged me as I read. Thoughtfully connected by the themes of picnics, reconnection, and romance, these novellas are memorable and engaging. There is a meaningful connection among these four stories as they emphasize grace, kindness, friendship, faith, family, and community.

An Amish Picnic is a heart-warming and uplifting book brimming with four very special stories. A true pleasure to read from the first page to the last, I eagerly recommend it to all readers.

*I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher through Netgalley. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.

Four talented authors of Amish fiction have worked together to produce this wonderful collection of novellas, just in time for the sunny days of spring, soon to arrive, I hope!

Each tale is written in the author's unique style, resulting in well developed, heartwarming stories all dealing with the picnic season in the Amish communities. The stories, although different in characters and outcomes, complement one another in dealing with a developing romance , despite fears, miscommunication , uncertainty and challenges, some apparent, others hidden deep within the characters. Quirky characters, mystery and love abound within the pages of this book.

I always am leery when reading a novella, afraid that the plot will not hold my attention, as it is a short piece of work, and this type of book doesn't always leave me feeling satisfied and fullfilled. "An Amish Picnic", to my delight, was a book that I will read again! The stories seemed to lead into the following one , all the while holding me captive until the last page was read. The plots were well developed with just enough twists and turns to keep one thoroughly engaged in the characters' lives.

These four authors came together to write Amish tales that will quickly get you into the mood for the nicer weather that is sure to come our way very soon!

Definitely a five star book! Don't miss it!!




This book was supplied by CelebrateLit. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own. A positive review was not required.

This book was a collection of four Amish stories which all had a picnic as a theme. The stories were heartwarming and just what I needed during this time. I am longing for summer!
Many thanks to Zondervan Fiction and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book is a collection of four stories by the above authors. The first one, Baskets of Sunshine, by Amy Clipston, made me want to pack a picnic immediately and take it outside. It's a very simple sweet romance between Phoebe and Kevin which was full of misunderstandings, teaching us to be up front and truthful with those we love. It was a quick read but really did make me have thoughts of summer and happier days.

The second one, Candlelight Sweethearts by Kelly Irvin, was set in a grocery store, which I thought was a very original setting. It's about Esther who struggles with a problem she thinks is impossible to overcome. She finds solace in working the in the family owned grocery store where she feels useful. She also has to step in and help the store's owner's son, Jasper from time to time and they do NOT see eye to eye. Can they work together when a medical issue affects the store's owner?

I got excited when I saw the third story, Reeling in Love, by Kathleen Fuller because it was about Nina and Ira, who we have seen in her last book, The Innkeeper's Bride. Nina and Ira are best friends, but recently, Nina is seeing Ira in a different light. This is a classic case of when one person wants more in a relationship but is afraid to disturb the status quo. Also, when a young Amish woman, Margaret, shows up on the scene, Nina really thinks her chances are shot. Find out if things work out for the best buddies.

Finally, in Picnics and Prospects, Faith and David find a box of mysterious, old letters hidden beneath some kudzu on an outing. They set off trying to figure out who the letters belong to and along the way, they learn things about each other that surprise both of them. But, it's going to take a lot for Faith to get past what she sees as huge obstacles. As we all know, though, love can conquer a lot IF we let it.

This was a nice little collection of stories that I enjoyed. In this time of uncertainty, I always find it refreshing to read simple stories to keep what's important in perspective. I really recommend getting this book!

Thank you to Netgalley, Kathleen and Zac. All opinions are my own!

An Amish Picnic is a collection of novellas. A novella is a short story. This collection of novellas is based on the same topic, Amish picnic. Each novella was written by one of the authors.

I loved reading An Amish Picnic. Each author used a picnic in their story uniquely. All four novella was different but they came to life through the characters and author's detailed description. Along with their own inspirational message as well. All four authors did an amazing job writing their novella.

Highly recommend reading An Amish Picnic. I can't wait to read the next collection of novellas in the near future.

I received a free copy from NetGalley with no money exchanged, only an honest review. This is my honest review in my own words.

If you enjoy Amish fiction then you’ll love this book! All four stories are wonderful, especially since I’m reading about summer picnics during a cold Michigan winter.

You’ll read about characters you’ve met before in Baskets of Sunshine. Someone with a speech challenge and a family emergency in Candlelight Sweethearts. In Reeling in Love you’ll go fishing...and watch hurts heal. And finally Picnics and Prospects will teach you about claustrophobia and it’s devastating results.

I seriously can’t choose one over the other. All of them have wonderful characters that I came to love, and all of them describe areas of the country I would love to visit. Heartwarming, charming, challenging, and picnic worthy, I thoroughly enjoyed these novellas!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

I loved this book!! Loved all the stories in the book!! Love Amy clipston, Kelly Irvin and Kathleen fuller books!! Haven't read much by vannetta Chapman !! Received this book from zondervan fiction from netgally!!

"An Amish Picnic" is a delightful set of Amish romance novellas but four of the best Amish story authors on the market. Each story is a standalone with the theme of a "picnic" in each story. If you are familiar with the authors & their other books, you will likely recognize a few of the main characters. This book is an easy read, a sweet read, very clean and authentic. What a fantastic read!!!

I always love these novella collections! I love being able to sample different authors and read more from favorites. My favorite novella in this one was Baskets of Sunshine by Amy Clipston. It was great to catch up with some favorite characters from her other books. I’m looking forward to reading more from each of these authors!



I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

An Amish Picnic is a delightful novella collection from four very different Amish authors. Each story features a unique picnic that inspires romance and will have you wishing for a beautiful day to plan a picnic with someone special! Whether it’s a picnic basket loaded with favorite foods or something spontaneous the characters discovered a picnic was a wonderful way to relax and get better acquainted. A novella collection is also a perfect way to try a new author. You won’t be disappointed with this charming assortment!
I received a copy from the NetGalley and an author. The opinions are my own.

Baskets of Sunshine was a sweet book about finding love right in front of you and having the courage to walk in faith. Both of the main characters were fun and relatable, I enjoyed seeing their perspectives on age difference in a relationship. They both overcome the obstacles set before them with minimal fuss and a good dose of forgiveness.

Candlelight Sweethearts had an interesting storyline. The characters had very vivid descriptions and were both very shy and sweet, which made it an obstacle for them to overcome. The characters in this book really grow into themselves by the end of the story.

Reeling in Love was my favorite book in this collection, probably because I can see myself doing several of the things that the main character does. The story was well written, the scenes believable and it made me smile. I can totally see the situations presented happening in real life. Both the characters have struggled to overcome things and hurt feelings to mend, in the end, though they rely on God to help them muddle through.

Picnics and Prospects This was a fun mini mystery story! The characters played well off each other and I really enjoyed getting to know them (I do wish it could have been a longer story, just so I could have gotten to know the characters’ stories a little better). Overall, though this was a fun read. Both of the characters had to come to the realization that sometimes first impressions can be wrong and everyone deserves a second chance.

I give these stories 4 out of 5 stars for their creative picnic ideas, the interesting characters, and the themes of faith and forgiveness.

*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

An Amish Picnic is four stories by four well-known authors of Amish fiction. It is sweet and heart-warming and if you like Amish fiction, then you will definitely want to read it! The first story is called Baskets of Sunshine by Amy Clipston. It centers on Phoebe, younger sister to Christiana Kurtz, who we met in The Bake Shop. Phoebe meets Kevin, who works for her dad, at a job site one day and finds herself thinking of him more and more. Kevin likes Phoebe too, but he thinks he is too old for her. He also worries that dating her will cause him problems at work, since he works for her father. Will they be able to make things work between them?
In Candlelight Sweethearts by Kelly Irvin, Esther Marie, who we met in A Long Bridge Home, has a stutter. She is sure that no man would ever want her for a wife, since even speaking is hard for her. Jasper works the family farm supplying their store with all the produce that it needs. He has secretly like Esther Marie for years, but has a hard time talking to people. When Jasper has to take over the running of the store,will the two of them finally find the courage to get to know each other?
In Reeling In Love by Kathleen Fuller, Ira and Nina spend their Saturdays fishing side by side, as best friends. But Nina has recently realized that she feels more than friendship. When she tries to take a picnic to their fishing hole one day and reveal her feelings, everything gets twisted. Can the two of them work things out? Maybe, with a little help from their resident match-maker!
The final story is Picnics and Prospects, by Vanetta Chapman. In it, Faith and David had one disastrous date four years prior. Now, though, they seem to end up together at different events. When one of those events leads them to find a stack of letters from 1970, they work together to solve the mystery of who they belong to. Will they also solve the mystery of their relationship?
I had fun reading these stories. They are always light-hearted and leave me with a feeling of contentment. I especially love how they incorporate God's word into their messages, while still bringing a good story. Five stars!
I received a free copy of this story from NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own!

An Amish Picnic is a collection of four charming novellas that is sure to put the reader in the mood for summertime and picnics. Written by some of my favorite authors, I enjoyed each of these stories about young Amish couples who found romance as they picnicked together. Each story has its own interesting twist as the authors each touch on different aspects and issues of life. Stuttering, claustrophobia, and age differences each bring realism and relatability to the characters. In each story there is a struggle that the couples work to deal with and it is uplifting to watch them overcome. I enjoyed how the authors blend a sincere faith in God into their characters lives. This collection of stories is truly heartwarming, and readers who love Amish romance will not want to miss it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required, and the opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.

This collection of stories clearly points out that each one of us is not perfect. Everyone of us have strengths and weaknesses. GOD loves us faults and all.


Genesis 1:27 English Standard Version (ESV)
27 So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

We are GOD's creation. He knows our pain. He comforts us. He hears our prayers. We can celebrate his love for us.

This message is demonstrated in the four stories of AN AMISH PICNIC. A picnic is a time to enjoy GOD's gift to us. Who doesn't like a picnic? It involves being with friends and family celebrating with delicious food. And they had some delicious food in the stories....chicken, cookies...yum!

Each character in the stories were not perfect. They had fears. They had disabilities. They had flaws. But with prayer, faith and trust in GOD'S love...anything can happen.

I loved the stories and the message I took away from them.

I received this free from Celebrate Lit to review.

Wonderful stories of romance and I enjoyed how picnics are featured to bring these couples together. Each story unique as to the trials and handicaps they had to handle. I really enjoy the friendship shown among the Amish. I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary.

An Amish Picnic is a collection of four Amish stories by four of the most popular Amish authors. These stories include:
Baskets of Sunshine by Amy Clipston – Kevin seeks to find a way to take care of himself. He soon meets his boss’s daughter, Phoebe. The two become fast friends and fall in love. Only there are a few obstacles they need to get through to make it possible. Is it worth it to become a couple?
Candlelight Sweethearts by Kelly Irvin – Esther has had to deal with a stutter all her life and works for Jasper’s family business. The two do not get along. They soon find themselves in a situation where they have to deal with their differences and soon to find out how they really feel for one another.
Reeling in Love by Kathleen Fuller – Friends Nina and Ira love fishing together. Just when Nina discovers she has feelings for him and wants to let him know, things happen to keep her from doing so.
Picnics and Prospects by Vannetta Chapman – Faith and David decision years ago that they were not a match. However, after they team together to solve a mystery, they start to wonder if they should rethink about their past decisions.

I enjoyed all four of the stories from An Amish Picnic. They were all sweet and clean Amish reads. They were mostly predictable but still very much enjoyment. I am giving this collection four stars.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

If you're looking for clean romance involving a picnic, young Amish looking for love and romance but feel they won't ever find it, then this book of four Amish novellas is perfect to read! All four authors are excellent and know how to how my attention. I enjoyed each journey.
The book is so enjoyable, I recommend reading it very soon!

Amish authors Amy Clipson, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller, and Vannetta Chapman have written novellas for An Amish Picnic.  This collection of four Christian Amish Romances is so sweet.  Each novella is a stand-alone and does not build upon any of the others.

Baskets of Sunshine, written by award winning author Amy Clipson, is the opening story.  It is fabulous and the perfect way to start this book.  This is the story of Phoebe Kurtz, Amish daughter of Freeman.  She assists her sister with her booth at the Amish Market and also helps at home.  She is a sweet yet feisty pretty teenager.  Kevin works for her father and is a couple of years older than Phoebe.  This beautiful tale shows that age difference in a relationship does not always matter.

Candlelight Sweethearts by Author Kelly Irvin is a cute story.  Esther Marie is a lovely Amish girl but has a stutter.  She works at Jasper’s family store and really likes him.  He notices her, too.  Showing that a speech impediment impacts person’s life, this tale is filled with faith, encouragement, and hope.

Author Kathleen Fuller offers Reeling In Love. Nina Stoll realizes that she is in love with her best friend, Ira Yoder.  They meet each week to go fishing.  Things become complicated when his cousin comes to visit.  Nina’s family coach her on what to do and the result is emotional and funny.  It is a tale of friendship turning into love and miscommunication.

Closing the book is author Vannetta Chapman’s Picnics and Prospects.  This is the tale of a Faith Troyer.  She suffers from claustrophobia and panic attacks.  David Lapp has a history with her.  Now he builds tiny houses and cabinets.  He wants to help Faith and make up for his past mistakes.  This is a story if healing, trust, forgiveness and redemption.

Each story in this Amish collection is encouraging, inspirational, and inspiring.  It gives a message of hope and healing.  I really enjoyed it.  Everyone will enjoy this sampling from four extremely talented authors.  All four stories and the collective book receive a 5 star rating.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own honest words.

It is with great honor that I introduce a book filled with hope, forgiveness , trust and unconditional love. These amazing authors have gathered to bring four stories that weave emotions throughout the book as readers fill their hearts with encouragement and joy. I love reading books where author‘s collaborate to give readers a taste of different writing styles. I loved reading about the different places the characters had a picnic at and the delicious selections of food. Now it’s time to sit back, get comfy and enjoy your adventure to Amish country.
Baskets Of Sunshine by Amy Clipston
I loved following Phoebe and Kevin as they start to get to know each other. The author explores how two young people learn to trust a God as they make decisions about their relationship. It was interesting to see how Kevin struggled with the age difference even though I didn’t find it to be such a big problem. Kevin is guarded around Phoebe which cause a little friction as they develop a relationship. I loved the picnic they went on and all the fun activities they joined in as Kevin slowly starts to open his heart to love.
It’s funny how two people who like each other can have such bad communication between them . It is so easy for us to think someone doesn’t like us and allow thoughts to push us away from them. Kevin and Phoebe’s story is sweet and filled with hope.
“We’ll take everything step by step and in God’s time.”
Candlelight Sweethearts by Kelly Irvin
I fell in love with Esther Marie right away . Having a speech problem makes her shy and uncomfortable. Oh how I wanted her to find courage and strength to know she was loved by God. I couldn’t wait to see where the author would take us as the story unfolded.
Jasper finds himself helping out at the deli when his father becomes ill. He sure seemed a little on edge with customers and Esther Marie. This story made me chuckle because Jasper really likes Esther Marie but is a bit scared to say it. His pride and stubbornness is going to get in the way of happiness if he is not careful. I liked how the author emphasized that looks aren’t as important as a pure heart. The story is a wonderful look at trusting God and letting go of insecurity.
“God was made strong in His weakness.”
Reeling in Love by Kathleen Fuller
Oh how nice to realize that you are in love with the young man you always were friends with. Nina and Ira have a standing date to go fishing together every Saturday. They have been friends forever and enjoy each other’s company. Something changes one day and it hits Nina how much she cares for Ira. Nina is feeling a little uncomfortable as she realizes she is not like most Amish girls. She would rather be fishing than baking or cleaning like most her age like to do. Is that why Ira doesn’t want to court her?
Nina has big plans Saturday as a surprise picnic has been planned so she can tell Ira how she really feels about him. Well you know the saying, “the best laid plans.” Nina is in for a big shock as she goes to their favorite fishing spot. The author does a great job of sharing how a misunderstanding can lead to heartbreak. Nina’s heart is broken and her conversation with her Grandmother is very special as she shares that God will mend her broken heart. It is a great lesson in not giving up and realizing how important you are to God.
“What seems impossible can be possible with God.”
Picnics and Prospects by Vannetta Chapman
A good way to feel old is to be a chaperone to those younger than you. That is just what Faith and David find themselves doing in this fun story about picnics, mystery and romance. I couldn’t wait to find out what is the package they found as they rescued a puppy while on an outing. I loved the addition of the dog and how it fit so well into Faith’s life.
The author really piqued my interest in the letters that were found. What I really liked was how those mysterious letters find Faith and David spending time together as they try to figure out who the letters from 1970 belong to. Faith’s anxiety about closed in spaces has caused her to shy away from going places. Perhaps with a mystery to solve she will find confidence to let go of her fear and learn to trust others as well as God. The story is full of surprises and I loved learning about Tiny Houses. They play a big part in the story as well as the letters. It was wonderful to read about lost love and finding hope.
“God has designed us in His image.”
I really enjoyed the stories and learning new things about the Amish. I think I will plan a picnic with my husband and make memories to last forever.
I received a copy of this book from Kelly Irvin and Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.