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.

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.

"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.

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.

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.*

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.