As I read this emotional story, I kept wondering how I would feel and how I would react to the problems facing Emma Hochstedler and Samuel Christner. Would I be as grief-stricken, and feel as guilty, if my parents had been murdered? No, Emma wasn't responsible, but a disturbed Englischer's obsession with her had led to their deaths. Would I be as unsettled, as unsure, about my future? What if I had a chance to help someone that I had loved most of my life? Would I be like Sam, and do whatever I could, until.... I was dealt a blow that might forever change my own future. Would I be too broken, or too proud, to reach out to the love of my life?

Author Laurel Blount has written another powerful story about the people of Johns Mill, and the many storms that they experience. Strength in the Storm is a story of the heart---hearts that ache, hearts that break, and finally, hearts that are healed and restored. Faith, hope, and love are great healers, and Blount shows their effects on these hurting hearts!

Realistic characters, a wonderful setting, and a powerful faith message make this a story to remember. I recommend Strength in the Storm to all who enjoy Amish romance, and I look forward to reading more about the loving and supportive Johns Mill community.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

I was given an ebook through NetGalley to read and review. This review is freely given, and my own, honest opinion.
Most books like this have a "happily ever after, all is well" ending. The ending of this book was not what I expected.
The book was well written and in the Christian fiction genre. It did a great job of showing how a person/persons use their faith in hard times. It also shows that even though you are a Christian, you may not always live as you should.
The characters were well developed, good and bad. The story flowed well. My biggest disappointment was that I felt not all the sub-stories were wrapped up. I felt there were loose strings, so to speak.
If you like Amish books, you will like this though it is less about being Amish and more about using your faith.
I give this book a 4 out of a 5-star review.

Loved the storyline and characters. Laurel tells a great story. Can’t wait for the next book to come out for the continuation of the story.

Definitely not your typical Amish novel, author Laurel Blount kept me on the edge of my seat with this one. Hiding from a murderer, an annoying movie producer, and add in a gentle giant who wants to product everyone he cares about. So much is packed into Strength in the Storm.

Tragedy happens more than once in this story yet through it all is determination to trust God. Loss, hope, and faith all come together for an unexpected ending. Read it and see!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Wow, what a story! This one had a fairly major twist I did not see coming that changed the whole trajectory of the book. It was done really well, but it was definitely a surprise to me. I really enjoyed this one as much as the first one, but I am really hoping there is going to be a book three in this series since there are definitely unfinished storylines at the end of this book. All in all, this is a really great read/listen. Recommended!

Also make sure to read book one "Shelter In The Storm" before reading this one.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own. I also purchased my own Audible copy of this book as well.

Strength in the Storm is book two of Laurel Blount’s Johns Mill Amish Romance series, although I did not read the first in the series. I will definitely rectify that soon. The first book deals with the murder of Hochstedler parents in their store. It is referred to often and alluded to that it was Emma's fault, so I really want to read it. This is Emma's story, her romance with her childhood best friend, Samuel Christner. Samuel has loved Emma since he was in his early teens, in fact he asked her to marry him when they grew up. As they got older, Emma thought it was just a childish promise and moved away from her relationship with Samuel. Circumstances in both their lives has brought them back together again. When tragedy strikes Sam's family, it will take love and faith to move forward beyond grief and guilt.

This is my first book by Laurel Blount but it won't be my last. She is a wonderful storyteller as she spins a complicated, emotional story involving a group of friends and family members. I loved the characters in this story, with the exception of one. They were caring, loved one another and willing to do what was necessary to help one another even when it hurt. Emma is looking for a purpose and finds it by looking after Samuel's bitter, spinster Aunt. Samuel's Aunt Ruth was so very unlikable. I think we all know a Ruth, someone who is so unhappy that they want to make everyone else miserable. Samuel always depended on his strength and size to help his community. He is in construction, but also well known for having a hand with training horses. He sees Emma for her inner beauty and strength, not just her outer beauty. When there is a serious accident, he finds himself learning the same lessons as Emma. They are drawn together and find strength in their faith and their love. I enjoy Amish stories for their faith, and this story shows how living your faith can give you strength, hope and love. If you enjoy Amish stories, I definitely recommend this one.

Strength in the storm is appropriately titled with Emma’s and Samuel’s story. Emma and Samuel both suffered major losses but through many twists and turns they found strength to continue on with their lives. Their relationship had shifted many years ago but with Emma back in Mills Creek to assist her family after their tragedy that happened in book one. She’s soon offering to help care for Samuel’s aunt, as that was who Emma was. Samuel was one strong and big Amish man that had intervened for Emma when movie individuals kept bothering her.

This is one dimensional story that was spell binding till the end. The unpredictable scenes, dialogues, twists and turns along with a lot of emotions, faith and off and on romance kept me engaged. I wanted the story to continue to see how and if certain characters were remorseful for their actions that caused such heartache in this Amish community.

Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own opinion

Emma’s family suffered a tragic loss when her parents were gunned down by an “Englischer” (a non-Amish person) obsessed with Emma. The event has left her sister, Miriam, who was present, shaken and with PTSD. Unfortunately, it seems Emma is hindering Miriam’s recovery being a little too helpful.

When the aunt of Emma’s childhood sweetheart, Sam, needs caring for it seems like the perfect opportunity to get out of the house and give Miriam some space to progress in her healing. Aunt Ruth is not an easy patient and I admired Emma’s patience dealing with her. She was empathetic despite Ruth’s sharp tongue, but not to the point of being a doormat.

Emma and Sam were once best friends and a little more, or as much as you can be as young teenagers, but Emma broke Sam’s heart. Of course, caring for Aunt Ruth means Emma and Sam spend more time together. Being around Sam brings back some of the old feelings she had for him and now being more mature she’s able to appreciate his good qualities. His good looks certainly don’t hurt either! However, when another tragedy strikes, will the second chance they have at romance evaporate? These two had a bumpy road to cross. Their romance was full of longing and a bit of angst, and I loved every bit of it!

There’s a lot at play here with the “Englischer” who murdered Emma’s parents on the run and still posing a threat and then an accident that put their future together in peril. I loved how determined and steadfast Emma was. She dealt with so much, but she tried to stay positive. Sam went through a lot as well and like any normal person, didn’t deal with it well at times, but that was more because he didn’t want to be a burden.

I haven’t read many Amish romances, but I’ve enjoyed the ones I’ve read so far. I like the inspirational outlook presented in Strength in the Storm. With so much negativity out there it’s nice to read about characters, like Emma and Sam, who try to look for good wherever they can find it and persevere through adversity. I was rooting for their well deserved HEA.

"Nobody said it out loud, but everyone in the Johns Mill Amish community knew that if Emma Hochstedler had been less pleasing to look at, the Englischers would likely have lost interest by now."

Emma and Sam are childhood friends, but she has always had his heart. Sam has waited in the sidelines for her and tried to be her protector. When Emma offers to help take care of his aunt, will that change everything finally?

This book has some plot points that are key to what the characters learn throughout this book. I am going to avoid spoilers and instead talk about the lessons learned.

-Service. This book focuses on doing our best for others even when we are not appreciated or acknowledged. Hard to live out!
-Work. Does what we do matter? Are we more than our job?
-Attitude. Do we have the right to be cranky if life does not go our way?
-Family vs. community. Who should take responsibility when we cannot handle life on our own? Should it always be family? Or should our circles be bigger than that?

I feel like the author does a good job of presenting the Amish faith while avoiding stereotypes that can happen in this genre. She remains consistent with the ideals. While scenes do not take place at church, their pious lifestyle is evident. I rarely read Amish fiction, but I am glad to read books by this author.

This is book two in a series. I would recommend reading book one first. But the author does summarize the plot of book 1 enough that readers could probably follow along with one.
I did receive a complimentary copy of this book. I wanted to review it. All opinions are my own.

Another Masterpiece!
Wonderful characters:
- spunky and softhearted Emma with “a steely strength behind her sweetness”
- strong and protective Sam who heals from tragedies and struggles to move on in life
Sweet and heartwarming story of love, forgiveness, second chances, and so much more.
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.

Wow! Strength in the Storm is another powerful story in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series. It is the second book in the series and although you could probably pick this one up and understand what is going on, it will be so much more meaningful if you also read book one, Shelter in the Storm, which is another amazing book.

The author knocked it out of the park with this novel. Emma faced horrible tragedy with the murders of her parents in book one. She and the other members of her family are still picking up the pieces of their lives in book two. Things are looking up, yet the grief is still there.

In this story, Emma ended up serving as a caregiver to Sam Christner’s aunt. She was a difficult woman and not easy to be around. Yet, just as all seemed to be looking up, there were some big plot twists. Emma and Sam found themselves dealing with some overwhelming obstacles.

The author did a great job of capturing so many emotions in this novel. From grief, worry, guilt, and fear to hope, love, and new beginnings, Strength in the Storm had it all. What a deep and wonderful story!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Such a lovely book to spend the weekend with! Laurel Blount is quickly becoming a favorite author. She deals with tough subjects, but in a way that you feel lifted up instead of down and you can tell each book has a piece of her heart and soul. Strength in the Storm is part of the John Mills series and I have loved each book. Thank you to @Laurelblountauthor for being so gracious when I messaged you and begged for a chance to read this arc.

It Won't Be the Last

This is the first book I've read by author Laurel Blount, but it definitely won't be the last. This story was absolutely wonderful!

Emma Hochstedler and Samuel Christner have been friends since childhood, or rather, they were friends until Emma broke Samuel's heart. Regardless of that, Samuel, who is such a wonderful, sweet and kind "gentle giant" just can't keep from helping Emma in any way possible. As Emma and her family continue to grieve the loss of their parents, Emma seeks a new purpose in her life, and Samuel ends up being instrumental in helping her do that. Emma begins taking care of Samuel's elderly aunt, and that is where things begin to take a turn.

Strength in the Storm was absolutely amazing! It drew me in from the onset and kept me riveted to the story and turning pages until I got to the end. Every so often I thought I knew which way the story was going and then it was, Oops!, Detour! Guess again! Woven throughout were the themes of hope, faith, love, overcoming adversities, new beginnings, perseverance, and God's will. The story also takes you on a journey that may have you reflecting on things in your own life. All in all, it is a very touching and moving story whose impact will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.

***I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley from the publisher, Berkley Publishing Group. All comments and opinions are completely my own.***

“Strength in the Storm” by Laurel Blount is the second book in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series. This is not your typical Amish book. Emma Hochstedler and her family are still recovering from the brutal murder of her parents. Emma realized that she needs a new start, so she moves in with her friend Samuel Christner’s aunt to help her around the house. Sam and Emma were childhood sweethearts who drifted apart. They are becoming closer when a terrible accident throws their lives into disarray.
If you like Amish fiction, then this book is for you. It reminds you that you must have hope and love in your life. I highly recommend reading “Shelter in the Storm” first because this is a continuation of the series.
I would like to thank Berkley Books and Netgalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. #StrengthintheStorm #NetGalley

STRENGTH IN THE STORM is the second book in the JOHNS MILL AMISH ROMANCE series, and I can’t wait for more. This story has so many layers and is centered around family, the Amish religion, and its community. It’s an emotional read, and I cried several times throughout the story.

Emma is still feeling the effects of her parents being murdered by an Englischer and the hand she played in it. Guilt is definitely a strong emotion she’s dealing with. She’s trying to get on with her life, but it’s nothing but difficult. It doesn’t help that an Englischer wants to make a movie about the murders and interview her to give balance to the story. Also, the murderer, whom they know, has not been caught. That’s a danger in itself. Emma’s younger sister seems to rely on her too much, and her brother and his wife, while caring, need to make some changes in their own lives.

Emma and Sam have been friends for a long time. He’s been hoping for more since they were young, but Emma shut that down a while ago. Both Emma and Sam have troubles they have to deal with, and the story ebbs and flows as it twists and turns through many story lines. The stories are woven nicely together and smoothly transition throughout the book.

Filled with the Amish religion, STRENGTH IN THE STORM envelops family and friends and provides a thoroughly satisfying romance. There is wonderful closure with the epilogue that showed the future for several characters. The cover was appropriate for the different storms that the characters have to face. I look forward to reading more in this series along with more books by this new-to-me author.

A RECOMMENDED READ!

𝘚𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨!

I was supossed to post a feature of this book, but I decided to read a few chapters and ended up finishing it.
What a beautiful story about loss, healing, love and second chances, it was just so sweet and touching.

Thank you Berkley Publishing Group , Berkley Romance and NetGalley for this gifted copy.

Strenght in the Storm by Laurel Blount, Author releases tomorrow February 22, 2022.

A great story and a great addition to book one. Should be also good as a stand alone book. Great characters, in so that I felt like they were real. This story has mystery, drama, and romance. Perfect for those who love the Amish genre. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year!

Laurel Blount is one fantastic author! Strength in the Storm has everything I look for in an engaging and heart stirring story. There are page turning circumstances and difficulties to be overcome, and yet through it all, a bright hope for a future of love and family remains. This inspirational book tells a powerful story of love and loss. Readers will experience all the up and down emotions that go along with the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges the characters have to deal with. I loved every memorable word of it and it's on my list of favorite books of the year!

There are some great quotes in this story! Some of my favorites,
* "A cheap horse was an expensive lesson."
* "...the joy in her expression hit him square in the chest. He'd been kicked by mules and
felt it less."
* "Staying with an unhappy person like your aent has given me more desire than ever to keep on living-to really live, and not spend my time mulling over the past. I want to enjoy whatever pleasant thing Gott puts in front of me at the moment."

Strength in the Storm may have an Amish setting and characters and therefore be considered and "Amish" story, but it's phenomenal storytelling will appeal to readers of all genres who enjoy a refreshing story with depth, relatable characters and satisfying endings. Whatever Laurel Blount writes I'll be reading it. She is simply that exceptional a writer and not to be missed! I'm looking forward to the third book in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series. I appreciate Berkley Publishing making a copy of Strength in the Storm available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

This is the second book in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series. I have not read the first book. But I think it would make this book even more interesting. This book is the story of Emma and Sam. They learn and grow from their many trials and tribulations. With support from the community and faith in God, they overcome many challenges and find happiness. The supporting characters are also endearing and entertaining. A well written story that leave you feeling satisfied.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Laurel Blount is an amazing author who knows how to captivate an audience from page one to the end. This is book 2 in the John Mills series and I enjoyed reconnecting with some of the characters from the first book. Laurel does a good job in detailing how Sam and Emma’s lives are catapulted in complete and utter chaos. Imagine dealing with the murder of your parents, a buggy accident that causes you to lose your eyesight and causes permanent scarring on your young niece’s face and then having to listen to non stop cutting remarks from someone who relies upon your help. How much can one person take and will their faith be strong enough to provide the strength they need to get through their personal storms? Will their childhood friendship finally evolve into a lasting relationship that will help them weather their storms?

I found this book to be realistic and touching because everyone deals with their own struggles and we all handle them differently. I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next book in the series.