An Amish Christmas Kitchen

Three Novellas Celebrating the Warmth of the Season

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Pub Date Sep 03 2019 | Archive Date Oct 03 2019
Bethany House | Bethany House Publishers

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Description

As the weather grows cold and the nights grow long, the cheer and warmth of the Christmas season is one thing all readers can find comfort in. This collection from bestselling Amish fiction novelists Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler, and Kate Lloyd finds the beating heart at the center of the holiday and offers three novellas that celebrate family, faith, and especially the sights and smells of a bustling holiday kitchen.

Leslie Gould tells the story of how, in the wake of a heartbreaking loss, a young Amish woman finds unexpected comfort and hope in a yearly baking tradition surrounding the local Lancaster Christmas market. Jan Drexler offers a sweet tale of a shy Amish woman who decides to use her gift for sweets to woo a local Amish boy with her beloved Christmas cookies. And Kate Lloyd offers a heartwarming tale of a woman's unexpected discovery about the truth of her past, and the warm and welcoming Amish family table she finds herself invited to on Christmas.

As the weather grows cold and the nights grow long, the cheer and warmth of the Christmas season is one thing all readers can find comfort in. This collection from bestselling Amish fiction novelists...


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9780764233838
PRICE $14.99 (USD)
PAGES 304

Average rating from 49 members


Featured Reviews

This book is 3 novellas by three of the best Amish Fiction authors out there. Each story is unique and captivating. I enjoyed all three and would recommend these to friends who like this kind of story. I have read some weird Amish fiction lately and none of these stories are like that. They are all realistic, intriguing stories about Amish / Mennonite people and how they live today. I love these books of Christmas stories from favorite authors and the fact that this is both Christmas and Amish fiction makes it even more fun.

I received a Kindle copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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What a fun Amish Christmas trio of novellas! Each novella can be read as a standalone as they are all by different authors and about different characters. Each novella is a delight to read as you get a peek into 3 different Amish families during the Christmas season. GREAT book!

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Here are three sweet novellas that will get you in the Christmas spirit! Each focuses on an Amish woman who is overcoming something, and there are delicious-looking recipes included at the end of each story. The kitchen features prominently in the romances, as you can imagine from the title. Perfect for fans of Amish fiction!

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Three sweet novellas, well written and engrossing. I liked them, they're well written and a perfect depiction of the Christmas spirit.
Recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

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I love this time of year when Christmas books come out. If you don't already, it's a good time to reflect on why we celebrate this season. When you have 3 authors that can bring you stories that will give you the reminder why we celebrate Christmas and tug on your heart you know just how good God is for giving the gift of writing to Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler, and Kate Lloyd. So before you sit and open this book up, you must have a few things with you. Tissues, a cup of tea find your comfy spot and be prepared to be moved as you read each story.

An Amish Christmas Kitchen is Three Novellas that will bring the true meaning of the Holiday. You will be blessed with each story in this Novella.

First, you will have Leslie Gould's An Amish Family Christmas story and meet Noelle, As Noelle prepares to take over the family business she will learn more about herself and other events that have been haunting her for a while. An amazing story of forgiveness and love. I know you will love it as much as I did. Thank you, Leslie, for a touching story.

Next, we have An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler and here you will meet Ada Weaver who is concerned that she will never find the right person that will love her and just want to be with her. Ada is taken by the newest Amos who is just downright rude and Ada doesn't see the perfect man right in front of her. Many times we often don't see the things right in front of us until we are hurt. A great story of listening to what God has planned for us. Thank you, Jan for a wonderful story and recipe.

This last story in this Novella is written by Kate Lloyd Unexpected Christmas Gift. Here is where you may have to grab a few more tissues for this story.

Have you ever had a feeling that feeling down deep inside thinking to yourself, I don't belong, I'm different? Well, Maria has felt that way for a while. She learns through a DNA test that she had been adopted. She sets out and hopes to find something familiar in Lancaster, PA. when the test relieves there is a match. but when things don't seem to turn out the way she thought Kate puts a twist and big surprise that will leave you gasping.
A wonderful story of showing love, grace, and understanding to those who don't understand the true love of God.

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An Amish Christmas Kitchen: Three Novellas Celebrating the Warmth of the Season is a collection of three stories. These stories include:
An Amish Family Christmas by Leslie Gould
An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler
An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Kate Lloyd
I enjoyed every one of these stories. I can not just pick which one I liked the best. I loved all three of them. My favorite part of the book was the recipes a the end of each story.
I give this collection four and a half stars. Recommended.

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Bethany House Publishing finds the best authors to publish and they have accomplished that in the collection of novellas they put together for Christmas season. An Amish Christmas Kitchen tells three stories of young Amish ladies trying to win the man's heart the old fashioned way--through his stomach.

In the novella by Jan Drexler, An Amish Recipe Box, Ada is trying to get a young man's attention by baking her best cookies for him every week. Since he works for her father, she doesn't have to go far to deliver them. The young man she's after is only making fun of her because of the extra pounds she carries. BUT, there is a man who is noticing her, not only for her cooking, but also for her Christian values and caring attitude.

All of the novellas have a sweetness to them that makes them fun to read for a couple of hours on an afternoon with nothing else to do.

This is a five-star book, with two thumbs up, and a cookie to calm your sweet tooth.

My thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley.com for providing the galley I have reviewed.

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Three sweet Amish stories that will warm reader's hearts. Each story gives readers a glimpse into the Amish culture and their love for each other. The Amish kitchen is a special place for love, fellowship, and family. Novellas are a great way to read a sampling of different author's stories. Love the special Christmas recipes provided. Highly recommended!

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3.5 stars

I've read a number of individual books by these authors, and I've read a number of Amish-themed novella collections, so I was looking forward to this upcoming release.

The stories are sweet and engaging, and the book helps set the stage for the upcoming holiday season. Themes of forgiveness, grace, and love are key in each story. There are a few unexpected twists, as well, particularly in the third story (by Kate Lloyd).

If you're a fan of Amish novels, or just want to try out the genre, this is a good book for you, as it gives you a feel for three popular authors.

I love that there are yummy sounding recipes included!

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this book has 3 stories about amish on Christmas holiday.
-An amish family Christmas - Leslie Gould
Noelle is the youngest daughter of Schrock family, she takes care of Dad, and bakes pies and cakes for Christmas market to help the family.
Nice and lovely story, inspirational and attractive. I barely put down the book, eager to read about all the wonderful characters.
-An amish Christmas recipe box - Jan Drexler
Leroy'shop grows: new goods to sell, new employee to work in, and hope new customers and tourists buy wood works and fornitures, cookies baked by Ada.
"Don't delay in mending fences. Bad feelings quickly become offenses." Nice amish lifestile story.
-An unexpected Christmas gift - Kate Lloyd
Maria, after unexpected revelation about their family, goes away to search her heritage: a new world welcome her.
"Don't judge a book by its cover", in fact before judge a person and the choices he/she made, you must know his/her history and past.
This story could be realistic, it makes me cry, love it.

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Three Beloved Amish Fiction authors have joined to bring heartwarming novellas that will get you into the Christmas spirit early.


Leslie Gould's story An Amish Family Christmas is about a family coping with grief and loss. Shy Noelle, the youngest daughter in a large family is tasked with manning the family stall at the market where all of her baked goods are sold. She is more comfortable behind the rolling pin than greeting customers. It is a case of when what works for someone else doesn't work for you, she rises to the occasion. I enjoyed seeing a young woman with potential emerge along with a new lease on life for her entire family as she sets about bringing the family together. A chance meeting with a fellow vendor mixes things up for her in ways she will always be grateful.


Jan Drexler's An Amish Christmas Recipe Box is a wonderful story of unrequited love. A delightful young woman bakes up a flurry of goods to sell in the family furniture store. Two young men working for her father play a pivotal role in this season of her life. As this story unfolded it warmed my heart. The cliche "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach" plays a role in how she seeks to woo the man she believes to be the one she is to marry.


Kate Lloyd's "An Unexpected Christmas Gift has just the hint of mystery you expect from Kate's books when a lone visitor arrives on Christmas Eve. A blizzard, a sleigh and a bit of confusion keeps the pages turning as you try to get to the bottom of this well written story of a family that comes together under circumstances nobody could have ever planned.


I enjoyed all three of these novellas and I can't pick a favorite. Each author has unique strengths that keep me coming back to their books. Rather than watch 25 days of Christmas movies, why not settle down instead with one of these novellas. You will be happy you did. I plan to read them again with a cup of tea and a cookie or two.

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An Amish Family Christmas by Leslie Gould

This is a heartwarming story where an unhappy Amish girl has a second chance at love and how her new friendship with a Mennonite woman opens her heart to her ex-boyfriend. I enjoyed An Amish Family Christmas. It deals with heartache and how words misunderstood had led to the breakup between Noelle and the hero.

It took me a bit of time to warm up to the heroine. Noelle’s tender concern and care for her ill father helped me see her in a better light. That shows her true nature. Noelle’s friendship with the Mennonite young woman, Holly, was the best thing for Noelle. Holly’s vivacious and optimistic personality helped her a great deal. Ms. Gould does a credible job taking Noelle from a depressed young woman to one who is willing to give Jesse a second chance.

Jesse is the hero. He went to Montana, leaving Noelle to deal with her ill mother and heartbroken. Now, he’s returned a widower with an infant daughter. I liked Jesse from the start. He tries so hard to talk to Noelle, but she kept pushing him away. Fortunately, Holly plays the matchmaker and makes it possible for him to finally speak with Holly. While the ending is positive, it felt rushed to me. Nonetheless, an enjoyable Christmas tale with a positive message.

An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler

A heartwarming Christmas romance with engaging characters and lesson to look beyond the surface. Ada has a crush on Amos who works in her father’s woodworking shop. Another young man befriends her, offering friendship and a sympathetic ear.

When the Amos derides Ada’s efforts to attract his attention, Matthias stands up for her. That sealed the deal for me, and I really hoped Ada’s eyes would be opened to the much better man in her life.

I enjoyed the message and the emotional writing in An Amish Recipe. It shows how looks are not everything. The heart of a person is much more important, and Matthias has a heart of gold. I am glad I had the chance to read this well-written novella, my favorite of the three!

An Unexpected Christmas Gift By Kate Lloyd

This story is about a young woman searching for her birth mother. Her search takes her to Amish country where she meets relatives that she discovered from a DNA test. It shows the open hearts of the family, and Maria yearns to be a part of this loving family.

The romance is lightly sprinkled in lightly and is more eluded to than shown. I liked the characters, especially the matriarch of the family. It has an enjoyable, if somewhat abrupt ending.

If you enjoy sweet Amish Christmas stories with engaging characters and heartwarming plots, then you will love An Amish Christmas Kitchen. It’s sure to put you in the mood for the upcoming holidays. Happy reading!

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This is an excellent collection of Amish stories written by three talented and popular authors. These three novellas are each their own unique story. Each story has a theme of love, forgiveness, second chances, and hope. The book is perfect to read during a busy Christmas season, as the stories are shorter and could be read in one sitting. But even though these are shorter stories, the storylines feel complete and the endings are not rushed. I think my favorite story in this book was “An Amish Christmas Recipe Box” by Jan Drexler. I loved the character of Anna in this story and really wanted her to find her happily-ever-after. Fans of Amish fiction will love this book.

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

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I enjoyed these sweet, gentle stories. The world building details filled out the pictures in my mind. The plots were character driven, providing backstory as it was necessary for character development and for moving the story forward. The characters showed honest emotions quietly and privately. I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of angst over whether the relationship was headed in a serious direction. Recommended for all audiences.
I requested and voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.

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Earlier I had reported that Netgalley copy was messed up and it is! So I waited on my print copy.
Some pretty fabulous authors and stories in here for certain sure.
There's a little something for everyone and I know I spent a wonderful afternoon reading with no one to bother me. If you're an early Christmas reader then this will get you into the Christmas mood. Me I'm a procrastinator. I don't like celebrating Christmas too early. It has a tendency to ruin it for me.
I think that my favorite story will be the one by Leslie Could.
There are great characters in here and a love and friendship like no other. This story will also make you drool but then every Amish does because of their famous cooking and as always with any Amish book there are some wonderful recipes at the end of each chapter like for example An Amish family Christmas has Baked Creamsticks. Never heard of them but they sure sound good!!
The 2nd one
An Amish Christmas Recipe Box certainly will make you grin as we watch this young woman Ada try woo an Amish man named Amos. I like that name. It was my uncle's name. They always did say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Some cases this is true even for Englishers. Although how Amos acts I want to pop him one. His attitude stinks.
Will he and Ada get together or does God have something or someone else in mind for Ada? You'll just have to read the story to find out!
I loved this one too.! Jan is an awesome writer. She sweeps you away in the 1st chapter of the novella
My favorite cookie is the sugar cookies. My mom's specialty. She'd yell at me if I touched the dough.
There's another neat recipe at the end of this novella. Sounds yummy!
Kate Lloyd story An Unexpected Christmas gift is good too. The recipe Carmel Christmas Cake sounds yummy too. I think I'd like to try this this year.
Each story is a delight! For Amish fans a like will enjoy these sweet stories and get excited about Christmas
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
I will reread this book as it gets closer to Christmas.

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This book contains three different, but the same in that the time period is around Christmas, and contains yummy Amish food [some awesome recipes included], and each offers a little sweet romance.
Now I found myself quickly into each story, and like the “you can’t eat just one”, well I couldn’t read just one, and if life didn’t get in the way I would have finished this in one sitting!
Loved how the minds of these author worked, and each story pulled me in and kept my attention, only complaint, I didn’t want to leave them!
You don’t want to miss this one!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

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I found all three of these novellas to be sweet and on par with typical Amish Fiction. Kate Lloyd’s seemed to be the most outside-the-box in that it includes a woman outside the Amish community searching for her roots.

The recipes included with each story sound delicious and I can’t wait to try them out.

After reading these novellas, I can’t wait for Christmas. The settings of each story and the love and attention to detail set a perfect stage. Each author did a marvelous job of creating delightful characters, with just enough backstory to draw the reader in for the duration.

There was a deep sense of faith and family in each novella, and the love found encompassed the entirety of the season while giving honor to God and the birth of His son.

I was provided a copy of this book through NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

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An Amish Christmas Kitchen by Kate Lloyd, Jan Drexler and Leslie Gould contains three heartwarming holiday stories. I thought all three novellas were well-written and engaging. I started reading An Amish Family Christmas one evening and just kept reading until I finished all three (it was a late night). The novellas contain great characters and lovely settings. We see how the Amish focus on family and the true reason for the holiday season. I like the life lessons featured in each story with my favorite being a person’s heart is more important than their appearance. The romance plays out softly in each story which I appreciated. The stories are realistic with feel good endings. One of my favorite phrases is, “Life is only as short and hard as we make it.” It is important to remember the true meaning of Christmas and that only He can bring us the peace and joy we desire. There is a recipe for one of the mouthwatering baked goods featured in the story at the end of each novella. An Amish Christmas Kitchen will have you wanting to drag out your Christmas decorations and start baking your favorite Christmas cookies.

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A collection of three novellas, An Amish Christmas Kitchen showcases the work of three well known Amish fiction writers: Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler, and Kate Lloyd.

The first novella, An Amish Family Christmas, tells the story of a young Noelle who struggles to find her place in the family business. Always behind the series, a busy Christmas season pushes her into the forefront as she must take her sister's place selling pies at the Christmas market. While there, she encounters new friends and an old flame. And when her sister begins acting strangely about the family Christmas plans, Noelle must decide for herself how she sees her future.

The second novella, An Amish Christmas Recipe, follows Ada as she seeks to win a young man's affections ... through baking him Christmas cookies, of course. But when the young man's character proves to be questionable, a new beau emerges. A wonderful story that proves looks can sometimes be deceiving.

The final novella, Unexpected Christmas Gift, introduces Maria, who through a strange turn of events, finds herself in Amish country looking for her birth family. Stranded by the side of the road in a snow storm, Maria bring her heart ache, and her English ways, into the lives of the Miller family as she looks for answers.

Each novella highlights new characters and can be read as a stand alone story. Centered around the Amish/Mennonite communities, the stories are lighthearted and draw on the theme of hospitality in the kitchen. My favorite of the three novellas was the first by Leslie Gould. An Amish Family Christmas has the most in-depth storyline within the confines of a smaller space. These shorter, themed collections are perfect for relaxing in the midst of a busy holiday season.

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

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I'm always saying I'm not a huge fan of novellas and that remains true today. However, I enjoyed reading these three stories by popular Amish fiction authors. These holiday-themed stories were well-written and complete stories. The stories never felt rushed or lacking in any way.

This would be a great collection to add to the shelves of Amish fiction readers. It would also be a great way to introduce someone to the genre.

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

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I love Christmas, I love novellas (they’re fast and easy to read!), and I love Amish, so what better combination than all three wrapped up into one amazing collection? There isn’t anything better, if you ask me. And, I have to say, this collection was worth the anticipation, worth the wait. All these authors did a fabulous job!

But, one specific story I want to focus on is Kate Lloyd’s An Unexpected Christmas Gift. After reading all of Lloyd’s other novels, I knew I needed to read this story. And, I will tell you, I was not disappointed! It was a quick read, I read it in just an hour, but it was packed full of amazing characters, and one heart warming, soul moving message of truth and forgiveness.

Following Maria Romano and her story was moving. I loved every minute of this holiday novella. I fell in love with Naomi, Nancy, Anna and Silas, the Amish family that invited her in, I fell in love with Maria herself and Naomi’s sister Linda, I loved Troy Bennett and despite my food allergies and not able to eat a lot of delicious amazing food, I fell in love with the recipe that Lloyd included in the story. I will definitely be making the Christmas Caramel Cake for my guys!

If you’re a fan of Christmas, Amish, and working in the kitchen, then I will tell you right now. This is a collection of stories you don’t want to miss. All the stories are worthy of 4 stars and have a touch of romance woven in. Don’t miss it! You’ll be sharing this collection of holiday stories with all your book loving, Amish loving friends.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher, Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

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Make a cup of hot chocolate and sit down to enjoy this collection of Amish novellas. You will soon be humming Christmas carols and be ready to start your Christmas baking with the delicious sounding recipes included with each story. I found myself getting into the Christmas spirit by the end of the first chapter. If you are like me, you devour a good read and this book certainly whet my appetite.

Each story brings you to an Amish kitchen , the center of family life. An Amish Family Christmas by Leslie Gould is focused on a young woman who has lost her mother in recent months and is now working hard to work at the family bakery as well as care for her father. Then.... a former boy friend appears on the scene. This thought provoking story deals with all the important things in life, forgiveness, love and having faith when times are tough.

An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler tells a very different, unique love story showing the importance of baking delicious treats to gain the attention of a certain young man.... however it's the wrong man!!! Ada finds love in the most unexpected way!

All three novellas had realistic characters who grabbed you and pulled you into the story. Every joy, hurt, challenge and success could be felt as you walked alongside these dear people.

Although each novella was short, the plots were intricately woven, filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping the reader's interest from beginning to end.

This is the perfect easy read for the Christmas season. Don't miss it.

This book was supplied by the authors. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own.

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"An Amish Christmas Kitchen" contains three novellas written by different authors. Each is well written and stands on its own as a worthy read. In each story, the main characters deal with different issues and problems: ailing parents or family members, past heartaches, and seeking a new life. The stories all feature strong female lead characters. Each is satisfactorily wrapped up in the end. While they take place at Christmas time, the holiday is not the main focus of the stories. They focus primarily on family situations and interactions.

These stories do not sugar coat the Amish life, but present a realistic picture of people dealing with daily problems. That is what I liked most about these novellas. The plots and settings were realistic, described in enough detail to allow the reader to picture them, yet not too wordy. The Christian message is clear, yet fits in well as a thread without overwhelming to the story line.

Readers who enjoy short stories and strong female lead characters, as well as a depiction of Amish life, will enjoy this book.

I received this book from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

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Christmas came early this year with the release of a brand-new Amish novella collection! Three sweet love stories, based on the holidays and Amish traditions, will warm your heart and delight your senses. All three are delightful reads, though the second story, An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler was my favorite. As an over-weight woman myself, I related best to the main character. Each story had a bit of sadness and melancholy as well as lots of love, laughter, and holiday cheer. Kate Lloyd’s story, An Unexpected Christmas Gift is different from the others in that it is in first person and from the perspective of an “Englisher,” an outsider, which gives it a more contemporary feel than the others. I loved the plots involving the DNA test, as well as the Christmas market. Each novella concludes with a recipe straight from the story.
I recommend these stories for lovers of Amish fiction and Christmas novellas. They are a wonderful addition to your holiday TBR.

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This was a really wonderful set of novellas, one of the best i have read in years. Each story is engaging. An Amish Family Christmas deals with loss that could rob the family of their traditions. An Amish Christmas Recipe sheds light on how blinded a person can become when trying to impress someone who doesn't care about them. The final book An Unexpected Christmas Gift brings the Amish community into the age of DNA testing and how it can effect people.

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First, I want to thank Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler, and Kate Loyd for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.

An Amish Christmas is a book filled with three novellas’ celebrating the warmth of the seasons. In this book you will read Leslie Gould’s An Amish Family Christmas, Jan Drexler’s An Amish Christmas Recipe Box, and last but not least Kate Loyd’s An Unexpected Christmas Wish.

I absolutely fell in love with the cover of this book. It was one of the many reasons that captured my attention in wanting to read this book. The graphic artist captured the essence of the stories perfectly onto the cover. Not to mention the font and the placement of the tile and author were well done too. Kudos to the graphic artist on a job well done.

One sweet thing that all three of the authors did in this book was contribute one or two recipes at the end of their book. They really good too! I am a sucker for anything caramel! So, I may be trying the caramel icing that Leslie Gould mentioned!

Another thing that is common through the novella’s is you will see mention of God or bible verses.
Speaking of Leslie Gould her novella is called An Amish Family Christmas. Her novella was dedicated to her husband Peter who makes Christmas magical every year. This story pulled on my heart strings for all the heartache in the family that they have had.

Everything about the market run and owned by the family touched my heart. I myself love family run business and frequent them often.

As a reader I could not help smile when Holly and Noelle meet and you hear their story. It brought love into your heart it was just so sweet.

Jan Drexler’s novella is called An Amish Christmas Recipe Box. Boy after reading this story I am craving Christmas cookies and pies!! Not to mention all the meal prep she had to do for Thanksgiving! I wanted to jump in the story and join them for the festivities. Those ladies seem like amazing cooks and bakers!

I loved Matthias storyline how he wanted to be the man of the house now that his father had passed. However. his Mom still saw him as a boy!

There was a part in the story that I cracked up laughing! Someone came into the store looking for a rolling pin for her daughter. However, she does not bake. Ada gave a laugh and said maybe she wants to use it on her husband.

Ruth wrote this in the memory of Ruth Ann.

They saved the most incredible story of the three for last! The story that grasped my attention from the start and was fast paced until the end. A story that is in a different class above the others. Kate Lloyd’s The Unexpected Christmas Gift is the novella I am referring to. Never has an Amish book swept me off my feet as this one did. Great job Kate!

Rumspringa is a fascinating tradition to me in the Amish world. So, any storyline around that I find very intriguing. Hence the story of Maria trying to find out who her real mother is. There is a twist to the story that I never saw coming.

I learned something from Kate that I had not known prior. Amish don’t drive but Mennonites do.

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I really enjoyed reading all 3 novellas in this collection. All three authors did a wonderful job of creating the spirit of Christmas with a bit of romance for good measure. I haven't read many Amish stories for a while because I was tired of the same old stories, but these three were fresh and really drew me in. I loved the Christmas setting and all of the characters. The plots were well developed and even though they were novellas the stories were complete. As an added bonus there are recipes included at the end of each story. So grab a cup of hot chocolate and some whoopie pies and settle in for a great read.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

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I fell in love with all three of these novels. So beautifully written about the Amish lifestyle, they take you right in to their homes. Each book was unique and I couldn't wait till I was able to read the next one!

I laughed, cried, and rejoiced in the happiness of the Christmas season. Although this was a Christmas book I had no problem reading it in the middle of August.

All three women struggle with finding the love of their life and are convinced they need to find their future husbands soon. I loved reading about their hopes and dreams. At times I was very concerned they would fall for the wrong one! All of them were very hard working and I could almost smell the baking of cookies and cakes (some of the recipes are included). I would love to have all their energy!


These novellas will warm your heart. A great great Amish read!

This book was given to me by Netgalley. All of the opinions were my own.

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5 STARS: 5/5 stars for each novella
Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler, and Kate Lloyd have all written heartwarming novellas centered around the Christmas season among the Amish and the kitchen which is the heart of the Amish home. What Amish kitchen is complete without delicious food? None, of course. Baking, cookies, and holiday meals are important to each of the stories. Each story made my mouth water as well as my eyes. I honestly can not choose a favorite among the three novellas as I thoroughly enjoyed each of them. I believe readers will as well. Grab a cup of coffee and curl up with a warm blanket and prepare to be enchanted.
I received a digital version of this novella collection from netgalley and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

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This book contains three short Amish romances, all taking place during the holiday season. I loved all three very much, so it is really hard to pick a favorite. All three stories had well developed characters and I came to know them and care about them as the stories progressed. The only author I had read of the three was Leslie Gould and her stories never disappoint. This was no exception. I am so excited to add two more Amish authors to my list. If you are looking for some quick and satisfying reads over the holidays, I highly recommend this book. Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for the copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Although I enjoyed this book, it took awhile to get into it. I'm glad I stuck with It, because it turned into a very enjoyable read.

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An Amish Family Christmas.
By Leslie Gould.

Noelle. Can God fill her with hope again? That was the story from her perspective. A lot of loss had happened to her, the man she thought she'd spend the rest of her life with left her or so she thought. She withdrew into a shell until life brought back a lot more that she thought she could handle. I loved her efforts in bringing her family together. I loved reading about how she learnt to stand up for herself.
Jesse filled with his own pain returned home and to the woman he loved. I loved reading about how he tried to make things better between himself and Noelle. His patience with her was remarkable.
I enjoyed reading about how they found their way back to each other.
One profound lesson I learnt is not to presume or listen to gossip but thrive to know the truth.


An Amish Christmas Recipe box. By Jan Drexler

Awwww Ada and Matthias.
Beautiful love story.

Ada has always taken Matthias as a friend while she was pinning over another. Mathhias has always liked her and sort her attention.
Love unrequited drove them together in this beautiful story.
I love reading about how he adored her even when she wasn't sure of herself. I loved Ada's beautiful heart and cheerful spirit.
Love is always worth waiting for, I loved the emphasis of that in this beautiful novella.
Everyone needs a sweet family like Ada's.


An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Kate Lloyd.

After taking a test, Maria's life toppled and she sort for answers in an Amish community where she met with a wonderful Amish family and her Beau Troy.
I enjoyed how the story unravelled and the love and beautiful community of the Amish people.
A wonderful story of love and second chances.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgallery for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed here are mine.

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An Amish Christmas Kitchen is a wonderful collection of 3 novellas written by bestselling Amish fiction writers to get your holiday season off to a special start. The three featured authors are Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler and Kate Lloyd. Each of these authors created a beautiful Christmas story that centered around a kitchen theme and to me the best possible ad-on with each novella is a recipe for you to make that comes straight out of the story. 

An Amish Family Christmas by Leslie Gould

Noelle loves to bake for their local Lancaster Christmas Market. She and her sister Salome have been a team for this annual event for a while and Noelle has always done the behind the scenes part of the actual baking and Salome was the person that interacted with customers and made the in person sales. But this year, Salome is injured and Noelle finds that she must do both jobs, baking and selling despite her shyness. To make matters even harder at the Christmas Market, her old beau Jesse King has returned, and he will also be at the market so she can no longer avoid seeing him.

An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler

Ada Weaver has been interested in one of the workers of her family business, Heritage Amish Furniture. Her sister Rose convinces her to do what she does best to woo him, and make special holiday cookies that she can bring in to all of the furniture makers to try and get their impression. She isn't having much luck getting Amos' attention, but her baking skills have built a friendship with the newest hire, Matthias Yoder. 

An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Kate Lloyd

Maria and her sister took a DNA test and right before Christmas Maria learned that she was not related to her sister. She went to her father (her mother had died two years earlier) and found out that she had been adopted. In the middle of a blizzard Maria is traveling to try and find the connection that she found thanks to her DNA test. As she skidded and crashed her car, she finds herself taken in by a family that insists that she stay with them until the weather clears. 

If you are looking for book to start off your holiday season, the three novellas in An Amish Christmas Kitchen will be sure to fill you with holiday cheer!

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"3 novellas in one book with have you wanting to read more. Each story delves into each characters life and the things they must overcome.
Leslie Gould's story bring the main character out of her shell, a friendship and forgiveness.
Jan Drexler's story show that main character that things are not as you want them to be and sometimes the gift is right in front of your eyes.
Kate LLoyd's story that the unexpected news the character receives bring her an unexpected place.

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Great sit down and relax kind of book. I truly enjoyed these stories, they kept my mind busy on the story and made me relax for the afternoon. It is nice to immerse yourself into these stories.

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An Amish Family Christmas is a great story to show how gossip is usually incorrect and hurts those involved. Sometimes the hurt can be mended but not always.

An Amish Christmas Recipe Box is a fast-moving love story filled with sweetness to get you in the mood for Christmas baking.

An Unexpected Christmas Gift was a surprising story of how even in close-knit families we don’t always know everything.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Bethany House Publishers, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

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What a fun way to get ready for Christmas by reading An Amish Christmas Kitchen and getting to read stories by familiar and new (to me) authors. I always enjoy a good novella collection, especially around the holidays. Centering around the theme of kitchens and baked goods got me even more excited to make Christmas cookies.

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Can 3 girls find love during Christmastime...?

I've waited awhile to read, An Amish Christmas Kitchen, I've had it on my Kindle since it released, but somehow it seemed fitting to read this book at Christmastime. So I waited, even though two of the three authors, Leslie Gould and Kate Lloyd, are favorite Amish fiction authors of mine, until now with snow on the ground and the smell of freshly made fudge floating through the house.

This novella collection was enjoyable to read on a cold and snowy day. The heartwarming stories chasing the cold back outside where it belongs. I liked all three of the novellas in this collection, not just from my favorite authors, but also from somewhat new-to-me author Jan Drexler. They are sweet, easy to read, shorter than a full novel, like a cookie is to an entire cake.

If you are looking for a good holiday read for yourself or want to give a book to an Amish fiction loving friend An Amish Christmas Kitchen would be a great choice. You'll fall in love with the characters, find the Amish Christmas customs interesting, and be charmed by the variety of settings. Oh, and you'll seriously drool over the food mentioned. It's a good thing each story has an accompanying recipe because you'll be hungry by the time you finish the book!

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

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An Amish Christmas Kitchen is a collection of three novellas, each one written by a different author with the focus on Christmas time in an Amish kitchen.

"An Amish Family Christmas," written by Leslie Gould tells the story of while mourning and selling her family's traditional baked goods at the local Lancaster Christmas Market, a young Amish woman finds unexpected comfort and friendship.

Jan Drexler's "An Amish Christmas Recipe Box" is a sweet story of a shy Amish woman who uses her kitchen talent to woo a local Amish boy with her beloved recipes of Christmas cookies.

And Kate Lloyd offers "An Unexpected Christmas Gift," of a woman's unforeseen truth of her past and welcome invitation to an Amish family's table on Christmas.

All three novellas had multiple messages to take to heart for not only Christmas but throughout the year as well.

I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is my honest review in my own words.

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Triple Delight!

Get ready to enjoy this book with three sweet Amish tales set at Christmas time.

An Amish Family Christmas by Leslie Gould

Noelle has been jilted by her fiancé, Jesse; and her mother, as well as, her bakery business partner has died. Now her older sister, Salome, demands shy Noelle take over the selling of the products at the Christmas market. On her first day there, of all people, Jesse shows up working in a booth close to Noelle. Additionally, Salome announces their annual Christmas gathering is cancelled.

Will Noelle stand up to Salome? Can she clear the air with Jesse? Answers to these questions, plus some surprising information will surface in this intriguing story.

An Amish Christmas Recipe Box by Jan Drexler

Ada has been trying to get Amos to notice her by making homemade cookies for him and his co-workers. He ignores her while he gorges himself on her goodies. Matthias, the new guy, thinks the world of Ada, but she only has eyes for Amos—who despite being Amish, is rude, lies, and chases girls. Will Ada ever notice what she has right in front of her?

An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Kate Lloyd

After taking one of those on-line DNA tests to trace your heritage, Maria is shocked to discover she was adopted. Even more surprising, she is related to an Amish Family! She sets out in blizzard conditions to find her “roots”, only to end up crashing her car and going into a ditch. Taken in by the Amish family she targeted as a possible relative, will they open up to a stranger, an Englischer, about family secrets? Will knowing the truth make her happy?

All these mouth-watering stories are written from a Christian point of view, and each will draw you in to find out what will happen. As a bonus, recipes are including for a yummy item from each tale (see them on the bookreadingtic blog). I recommend this 5-star book who enjoy Amish stories that will touch your heart.
Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, An Amish Christmas Kitchen, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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This is a trio of sweet Amish stories that are surrounded by the joy and simple traditions of Christmastime. I have enjoyed reading books by Leslie Gould and Jan Drexler over the years. Kate Lloyd is new to me. These stories are nice and enjoyable for quick reads during this busy time of year.
Each author combines faith, romance and different holiday activities with interesting characters and challenges for this book. There are some yummy sounding recipes included too.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy.

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These stories are great. Each story had it own unique story-line an characters. However what they had in common was the feeling it left you with after reading them. These stories left you feeling warm, fuzzy, wishing for the simplicity of Christmas, and most of all love and cherished. Which I believe we need it in a time like this. This is a great a book if you are looking for something uplifting and heart warming. Happy reading my friends!

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A very nice book collection. I’ve never read any book by these authors before so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the stories and the characters.

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If you are looking for a festive collection of Amish reads, this is for you! I love the fact that I get a “big book” to read, but it feels like it takes no time at all since these are shorter books. Leslie Gould, Jan Drexler, and Kate Lloyd all do fabulous jobs of bringing unique elements into their individual stories. Even though the stories are shorter, the characters still have a chance to develop nicely and plot lines flow well..

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I've been binge reading Amish novella collections, and loving it! This is a lovely one with a baking theme and unique stories of vulnerable young women. I enjoyed the first story the most, with Noelle going out of her comfort zone to sell her baked items at the busy Christmas market, and the unlikely friendship she develops with the Latina girl at the booth across from hers. Also a frustrating story of second chance love... let's just say I wasn't a fan of the older sister and the gossip she spreads.

I felt sorry for Ada and how she idolizes a young man at her father's shop who does not deserve her. Matthias can see his true colors, but it drives a wedge in the sweet friendship he has developed with Ada as she makes cookies for them. It's always difficult when someone falls off the pedestal we put them on. I liked the interactions Matthias had with Ada's father and the encouragement he receives with his work.

The last story was definitely one I haven't read anything similar to, but I wasn't a fan of the first person perspective. Maria's recent discovery that she was adopted leads her to the Amish family via a DNA test and database. It was neat to see her immersed in the family with their holiday traditions during a snowstorm, and the potential for romance with the Mennonite neighbor.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

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