Dakota runs Fairytale Bridal Shop in her smalltown of Flowering Grove, NC. Her shop is struggling after a leaking roof and she is trying her best to keep everything afloat until she get her financials back into the black.

Hudson left town, and Dakota, for the big city years ago to start a software company. After selling his company, he returns home for a brief stint to help his family and be by his sister as she gets married. Hudson thinks his sister is too young for marriage and tries to get her to slow down and reconsider marriage but she is set on starting her life with her fiance.

With Dakota and Hudson back in the same town, they can't help but bump into each other, especially when he rents the house next door to hers. When old feelings resurface, will they take another chance at love or will she really be the one that got away?

Hudson left me with a bad taste in my mouth. With his sister he was pushy, overbearing, and just overall not supportive of any of her decisions. He wanted to pay for everything for the wedding but then would hold it over her head. I wasn’t a fan. He was very controlling and just an overall jerk.

With Dakota, she was stubborn and refused to ask for help when her store was floundering. She had too much pride and also wouldn't listen when her niece brought her ideas to help.

I feel like their initial break-up was a huge case of miscommunication or better yet, non communion between two young people. It was probably for the best that they didn't get married initially because they were both too immature to deal with any issues that arose between them. I did appreciate the growth that they both went through in regards to their relationship and that they were able to figure out what went wrong all those years ago. It was sweet and the ending was satisfying.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for sharing this book’s digital advanced review copy with me in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book through a digital ARC from NetGalley
Author: Amy Clipston
Genre: Romance
Troupe: Second Chance Romance

This was a great second chance unexpected love book! Amy writes with such a beautiful story telling ability and her romance is clean and closed door!

As my family are all "rink rats," I loved the roller skating setting, music, activities, theme nights, etc. It brought back many memories of weekends at the rink.

I enjoyed seeing a bit of what it would be like to have a bridal gown store. I hadn't thought about the stresses of dealing with all types of people and changes in plans.

This was an enjoyable read for the most part. The main issue for me was that the two main characters were both pretty annoying for a good long while. They both had their good points but they got overshadowed in a big way.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley for review. My opinions are my own.

3/5 stars

I enjoyed this book. It was cute. I just didn’t looooove it. It had enough substance to keep me entertained but I felt the characters were a bit surface level. I wanted to know MORE about Hudson’s parents and his childhood, growing up with Aunt Trudy. I wanted to know MORE about Dakota and Hudson’s past relationship.

This is definitely a clean romance, so if you like that, this is for you. Second chance, moving home, small town romance are other tropes.

Dakota and Hudson were high school sweethearts and were even engaged at one point. Then he decided to go to the city to make his way. He was very successful, where Dakota is struggling with her bridal shop after some pipes burst and ruined most of her dresses. When he comes back to town for his sister's wedding, they meet again and sparks are still there. The question is whether they are willing to try again and if he wants small town lilfe again.

It's a very good story that I enjoyed reading

I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review

Amy Clipston's "With This Ring" is a touching and poignant story that delves into themes of love, loss, faith, and second chances. As part of her popular Amish fiction series, this novel stands out with its beautifully crafted characters and deeply resonant narrative that captures the essence of Amish life and the universal struggle of dealing with grief and finding hope.

The story revolves around Sarah Yoder, a young Amish widow who has been living with the pain of losing her beloved husband, Jacob, in a tragic accident. Consumed by her sorrow, Sarah has withdrawn from her community and her faith, finding it difficult to envision a future without Jacob. Her days are filled with routine tasks, and her heart remains shrouded in the past.

Enter Matthew Glick, a kind and compassionate man who has admired Sarah from afar. Matthew has his own scars and losses, but he harbors a deep hope that he can help Sarah heal and perhaps, one day, win her heart. His persistent kindness and patience become a beacon of light for Sarah, slowly drawing her out of her shell. However, their path to love is not an easy one. Sarah's loyalty to Jacob's memory and her fear of moving on create emotional hurdles that both must navigate.

Clipston’s portrayal of the Amish community is both authentic and respectful. She captures the simplicity and beauty of Amish life, where faith, family, and community are intertwined. The setting serves as a serene backdrop for the story, providing a contrast to the inner turmoil faced by the characters.

The character development in "With This Ring" is noteworthy. Sarah's journey from grief to healing is depicted with sensitivity and realism. Clipston delves into the complexities of Sarah's emotions, allowing readers to feel her pain, confusion, and eventual hope. Matthew’s character is equally well-developed. His unwavering support and quiet strength make him a compelling and endearing hero. The secondary characters, including Sarah's family and friends, add depth to the story, each contributing to Sarah's journey in meaningful ways.

One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of faith and its role in healing. Sarah’s struggle with her faith is portrayed honestly, without sugar-coating the difficulty of maintaining belief in the face of profound loss. Matthew’s faith, in contrast, remains steadfast, serving as a guiding force for both of them. Clipston’s handling of this theme is nuanced, offering readers a thoughtful reflection on the power of faith and community support in overcoming life’s challenges.

Clipston’s writing style is engaging and heartfelt. She has a talent for creating vivid descriptions and crafting dialogue that feels natural and true to the characters. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, allowing for moments of introspection as well as forward momentum in the plot. The love story between Sarah and Matthew unfolds gradually, with a focus on emotional intimacy and mutual respect.

"With This Ring" is more than just a romance; it’s a story about resilience and the courage to embrace a new beginning. It’s about finding light in the darkest of times and learning to trust in the possibility of happiness after heartbreak. Readers who enjoy Amish fiction, or simply love a well-told story about love and redemption, will find much to appreciate in this novel.

"With This Ring" by Amy Clipston is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page. Clipston has created a touching and inspirational story that speaks to the heart, making it a must-read for fans of her work and newcomers alike.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Thanks for NetGalley for the ARC was super cute.
It was giving small town romance vibes. A whole lot of Grumpy/sunshine vibes through out the whole book. Dakota is a the owner of a bridal shop. She loves helping brides but hope to be one day. One day she runs into her ex Hudson next door. Hudson moves back from New York. He was wealthy business owner. They gave a love/hate relationship..they ended up finding they're back to each other.

This is another good read by Amy Clipston. Dakota and Hudson have been a couple since high school with plans to marry. When Hudson leaves for a career in New York, they break up. Now, 7 years later, Hudson is back in town for his sister's wedding. Dakota owns the bridal shop in town and is hired by Hudson's sister Layla to remake her mother's wedding dress to wear on her wedding day. Their mom passed when Layla was a child. Hudson and Dakota still have feelings for one another. There was no closure when they broke up. They have a lot of obstacles to overcome before they could possibly reunite. This book is about love, forgiveness, second chances and family. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #netgalley #Thomasnelsonfiction

With This Ring is a captivating romance about love, loss, family, and second chances.
Dakota and Hudson were high school sweethearts on the path to happily ever after. When their paths went in two different directions, they broke up and never spoke again. Dakota stayed in their small town and is trying to make a go of her bridal business. Hudson went off to NYC to conquer the business world, after all money is everything.
When Hudson's little sister announces she is getting married, Hudson feels it is his job to come home and stop the wedding. However, throwing his money around and giving his opinion as often as possible is not always the best way to get people to listen.
Truly a cute love story with real feelings and emotions. I loved the characters, flaws and all.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Dakota and Hudson were engaged . They both lived in Flowering Grove. While they were in college they got engaged and then it was broken. Dakota stayed in town and started her own Bridal shop and Hudson off to the city and went in with a partner to start a software company which they are in the process of selling when the story starts. In the meantime, Hudson's sister, Layla calls to let him know she is getting married what a great time to go home. See how he is as a big brother and support to Layla about her getting married.. She wants Dakota to redo her Mom's wedding dress which brings her and Hudson together. Does Layla get married ? and Does Dakota and Hudson get things straightened out. A VERY GOOD READ

Another wonderfully written book by Amy Clipston! I absolutely loved this story and couldn’t put it down! Dakotah Jamison lives in Flowering Grove, NC where she runs a bridal boutique. The love of her life and the one who broke her heart, Hudson Garrity, returns for his sisters wedding. Can they put past hurts aside? Can they find their way back to each other? This is a must read! Thank you to the Author, Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for this ARC book. This is my honest review.

Honestly, this book was boring. I understood the premises and initially loved the idea that Dakota had a wedding dress shop. She was an unlikable character to the last chapter. I did like Skye and the family dynamics but this book wasn’t for me. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review this book.

Readers who like second chance books will enjoy this sweet story. Loved Dakota’s determination to make it on her own but sometimes she was too stubborn for her own good. Lack of communication between characters was an important theme throughout. Hudson was way too strong in his opinions but story slowly reveals his reasoning. Loved the setting of the wedding boutique. Enjoyable story. Recommended.

A sweet second-chance romance. Many family and business issues. A few heartwarming moments causing misty eyes. It is always a relief when people finally talk and resolve their differences and misunderstandings. Many challenges along the way. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.

3.5 STARS!
The premise of the book got my attention and rightfully so. The female lead is proud, over worked, and stubborn in her quest for success with her dream business. The male lead character is caring, never stops loving her, and wants to help her. But with that comes issues.

Clipston develops the story with engaging interactions between friends and family, continually connecting Dakota and Hudson due to the small-town proximity. But all was not well between them initially. We can feel the hurt and pain, both needing to find forgiveness and healing and especially knowing how to communicate with each other.

With This Ring is a powerful reminder that the heart can heal if we open our minds, listen, and forgive ourselves and others. I love the way the author allowed the characters to grow with their self-realization of what was needed to love again.

This is a clean romance about family connections with a super slow building second chance. I do wish it had more after the reconnection.

I wasn't sure what to rate this book.
I LOVED Dakota and Hudson when they were together. The dialogue was fantastic.
However, I didn't like them when they were interacting with other people.
The plot was intriguing, and the writing was good. I read it quickly because I was interested in how the story would conclude.
I was also a little disappointed there was no faith element to the story, considering the publisher. I'm not sure if that was an author or publisher decision, so I didn't take off stars for it.

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction Publishing for an ARC of Amy Clipston’s With This Ring in exchange for an honest review.

I found the story's premise interesting, so I requested the book. Former lovers who reconnect is one of my favorite tropes. The storyline itself was cute. I liked Dakota’s independence, although it was obstinate on her part.

Then there is Hudson, the big brother who feels he must protect his sister and aunt from everything, including the man his sister is about to marry. Hudson’s inability to see how overbearing and controlling he is damages his relationship with his sister and her future husband.

I found this story to be rather long, and not only was the book slow, but the slow burn was really slow.

#AmyClipston #WithThisRIng #NetGalley #ThomasNelsonPublishing #Romance #Fiction #RealisticFiction #ContemporaryFiction #Family #FriendsLikeFamily #Friends #ProtectiveOlderBrothers #SlowBurn #BrokenHearts #Misunderstandings #YoungLove #November #2024

With This Ring by Amy Clipston is filled with angst, obstacles, and second chances. Dakota just cannot get a break in her business. One catastrophe after another and she's wondering if her business will fold. Hudson Garrity is returning home after seven years to attend his sister's wedding. Unless he can break up the couple. I really did not like Hudson but wanted to. Can he change and get a second chance with his sister? His hometown? and the love of his life Dakota?

Releases Jan. 14th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

3.5 Stars

With This Ring is a perfectly sweet and equally frustrating romance. The characters are well-written, entertaining, and easy to relate to. While this story is a clean romance, there is definitely a lot of great chemistry and pull between the characters that will leave you wanting more.

Yes, this book had some really frustrating moments and the writing was a little rough in some spots, but when it comes down to it, With This Ring is a solid read and I'd definitely be interested in reading more from this author in the future.

*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*

A huge shout out to Amy Clipston and Netgalley for the ARC of With This Ring!

This was my first Amy book, and I really enjoyed it! While second chance romances aren't always my favorite trope, I feel like this was well done. I really enjoyed the small town setting, especially with the bridal store being involved. It gives Hallmark vibes in the best way! Overall a sweet book!