Loved reading this book. Amazing story and the characters lend to the charm of this book. I would highly recommend this book. You would not be disappointed.

The Stoney Creek Church is in shock when the director of a nearby girls home needs immediate housing for 11 teens and preteens. Though all the families are not ready to take in the needy girls, the girls temporary foster situation bring mayhem and joy and ultimately affect the entire settlement.

The new young schoolteacher, Mollie, is, at first, the only one ready and eager to take in foster girls and she idyllically imagines girls she can love and help, but the reality of their rebellious havoc and misbehavior almost does her in.

Brothers Luke and Sam Schrock get drawn into the chaos through love and a deathbed promise. Both of the young men are wounded from their family history, but are drawn into the drama: Luke in helping his wife Izzy to heal from her own past wounds, and Sam begins to open his heart as he watches Molly fighting not to quit fostering.

Luke and his wife Izzy (formerly a foster child) are newlyweds, unprepared for the many changes within their lives and overwhelmed with responsibilities of their farm, Izzy’s yarn shop, and the church when Luke is selected for a demanding position he never wanted.

What a beautiful story that is applicable in so many areas of our lives.

I love Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish novels, there's so much depth to them and she has such a gift for writing fully three dimensional characters with all their hopes and flaws.

This is book 2 in the Deacon's Family series, and can be read as a stand alone story, but I highly recommend reading book 1 first, for background to Stoney Ridge and it's people.

Mollie is the recently arrived schoolteacher, who longs for a child. When Luke Schrock, Stoney Ridge's new Deacon, asks members of the church to take in foster children, she eagerly jumps at the chance. But her dreams of cosy motherhood are shattered by the 11-year-old twins who bring calls from the school and visits from the police. And who then accuse her of drug abuse... The only thing which seems to bring any light into the situation is their interest in horses. And Sam Schrock trains horses... but isn't so keen on people.

This is another enjoyable read which is so much more than light entertainment. Don't get me wrong, it's easy reading, ideal for winter evenings, but there is so much richness in the story and the characters, and a real sense of wondering how things are all going to end up for Mollie and Sam, and some of the other residents of Stoney Ridge, too. There's plenty of faith elements here, as you would expect, but these are demonstrated as well as spoken, and there is much of faith, hope, and love - and of what that actually means in the reality of living your dream, when that turns out to be absolutely not the dream you had in mind.

A recommended read.

When it comes to Amish fiction Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite authors. I have not read a book of hers that I have not loved. The current series, The Deacon's Family is one of the best yet!

In Stitches in Time, book two of the series, we get to revisit some of the well loved characters from the first book. Even though this story focuses more on the relationship between Mollie and Sam, we also get a continuation of the story of Luke and Izzy which I really loved. You wouldn't necessarily have to read the first book in the series to enjoy this novel, but I would definitely recommend it.

More about the book:

Detachment had worked well as a life strategy for horse trainer Sam Schrock. Until he met Mollie Graber..

New to Stoney Ridge, schoolteacher Mollie has come to town for a fresh start. Aware of how fleeting and fragile life is, she wants to live it boldly and bravely. When Luke, new to his role as deacon, asks the church to take in foster girls from a group home, she's the first to raise her hand. The power of love, she believes, can pick up the dropped stitches in a child's heart and knit them back together.

Mollie envisions sleepovers and pillow fights. What the eleven year old twins bring to her home is anything but. Visits from the sheriff at midnight. Phone calls from the school truancy officer and the most humiliating moment of all: the girls accuse Mollie of drug addiction.

There's only one thing that breaks through the girls hard shell... An interest in horses. Reluctantly, Sam gets drawn into Mollie's chaotic life. What he didn't expect was for love to knit together the dropped stitches of his own heart... Just in time.

I highly recommend this book for Christian fiction fans. It's such a heartwarming story that you are sure to love!

Thank you to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Oh, it is a delight to revisit Stoney Ridge with the characters of Mending Fences, Luke and Izzy (along with a potential new couple, Sam and Mollie, of course). Fans of Suzanne Woods Fisher and Amish fiction will not be disappointed with the continuation of the Deacon’s Family series, Stitches in Time.

Teacher Mollie Graber is new to town, but does not hesitate when Luke Schrock needs the community to foster girls from a group home. When the fostering life proves more challenging than she anticipated, horses have a way of making a difference—which brings Sam Schrock across her path.

Stitches in Time delivers a heartwarming story, full of challenges, questions, romance, family, and Psalm 23. I enjoyed my time with the characters, as their story unfolded, feeling the emotions, insecurities, and hope alongside them. I look forward to seeing them again in Two Steps Forward (plus Jimmy Fisher!).

I have read other Amish fiction books by this author so I was familiar with some of the characters mentioned in previous books and series. The author also included a listing of characters in the beginning of the book which was helpful if you’re read her other books.

The Deacon’s Family Book #2 focuses mostly on Luke and Izzy, Molly, and Sam’s stories. Lots of great mini stories throughout including fostering, becoming an Amish Deacon, raising sheep, medical issues, marriage… lots of laughs, tears, frustrating moments, and various emotions. God’s love, faith, forgiveness and trust were all important elements in this book.

I really enjoy this story and characters and can’t wait to read more from this series!

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite Amish authors, and I think I have read all of her books, except the first book in this series,  and I love them all! In Stitches in Time, being a school teacher, Molly feels life would be fun if she takes in preteen twins from a group home. But she was definitely not expecting everything that would happen to change her life. And there’s Sam, who wants nothing to do with anyone, but somehow, he has developed a crush on Molly. Sam’s brother Luke sure wasn’t expecting to be drawn as deacon, he has some quick growing up to do! And Luke’s wife Issy has her hands full with her Stitches In Time yarn shop, in addition to wanting a baby so bad. Two couples, four people with issues that only God can fix.

I just love these characters, each having their own issues that draw them closer to my heart. My heart hurts for Izzy because she wants a baby so bad, and loving to crochet,  I would love to visit her yarn shop. I kept wanting to tell them both to drop everything and spend more time together.  Sam and his issues, well, he just needs to claim his feelings for Molly. And then poor Molly, having the twins that constantly get into trouble, having the police at her house. I was grieving with her as she continued to teach these girls.

This is such an awesome read, from beginning to end. The main thing I love about this book is that this story clearly shows that what we want doesn’t matter, it’s what God wants for our lives that makes us content and happy. Whether its romance, family, jobs, or other issues, He can fix it, if we only have the faith to trust Him. I highly recommend Stitches In Time. Especially if you love Amish stories. And if you have never read an Amish book, this would be a great book for you to try!

A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Stitches in Time is the follow up to one of my favorite reads last year, Mending Fences. A lot of favorite characters' stories continue and we also get introduced to some new characters as well. In this book, Luke is embracing and learning his new role as a deacon while his new bride, Izzy, is struggling to accept his new position. When the Amish community joins forces and takes in several foster children from a group home, everyone's lives -especially Luke's and Izzy's - are changed in the most remarkable ways.

I have really enjoyed this series by Suzanne Woods Fisher. I will always pick up her books and I look forward to reading the next book in this series. My favorite part of this book is when Izzy begins to search for stories in the Bible about the Shepherd and the sheep. It is so enlightening and comforting to think of our Christian faith in that manner.

Thanks so much to the publisher, author, and netgalley for the chance to read and review this book!

This book isn't quite what I was expecting but it was wonderful just the same. I was surprised by how much of the story is about Luke (from the previous book Mending Fences) and his new and unexpected role as deacon. I didn't realize how involved that calling is, and that it is a lifetime of service. It was interesting to read so much of the story from a (somewhat obtuse) man's perspective, and especially watch his process of growth from a prodigal son to a leader in the community. The bishop is a wonderful source of wisdom and friendship for Luke as he navigates his way with his new marriage and new calling.

Mollie and Sam are just forming a tentative friendship when Mollie eagerly jumps into fostering two girls from the local group home, who turn out to be the most troublesome of the bunch. Sam does his best to support her while also trying to open her eyes to a more effective way of dealing with the girls' misbehavior. Mollie is a naive optimist, but this experience gave her more than she bargained for, providing opportunities for growth and learning and sacrifice. The shenanigans were at times funny, but grew in seriousness. Sam's influence on both Mollie and the girls was steadying, while Mollie brought light and excitement into his life. I enjoy this author's thoughtful writing style and the way she explores difficult themes with grace.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Stoney Ridge, Pennsylvania has to be one of the most interesting towns to live in as there is never a dull moment. For this visit we had a surprise deacon election, a need for foster parents and a trampoline terrorizing sheep just to name a few.

Woods went in a direction that I've not seen before in Amish fiction and maybe that is because I've not read enough yet. She incorporated a group of African American foster children. I loved it as it promoted positive love among races. I'm not saying that to start a race\discrimination discussion. I'm saying because this is what we need for our future. Families want children to live no matter skin color, country of origin or difference in religious background. Kids just want to be wanted and loved.

The premise of the story is We all have dropped stitches in our life like dear of trusting others and we need someone to be out stitch in time to fix our dropped stitch. I found the imagery of knitting and not leaving a dropped stitch as it would cause a hole very fitting and beautiful. If we don't go back and mend our dropped stitches in life we can't be our best. I know I have dropped stitches I need to fix. I think we all do.

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

Stitches in Time by Suzanne Woods Fisher is book two in her The Deacon’s Family series. It is a fine example of Amish fiction, as is book one in the series, Mending Fences. Many of the characters in this series are old friends from previous series. The novel can be read as a standalone, but the background from book one will enhance the reading, so I suggest reading the series in order. Stoney Ridge, the setting for the series, feels like home. Book three, Two Steps Forward, is definitely on my to-read list.

Mollie Graber, teacher at the Stoney Ridge school and horse trainer, Sam Schrock, are drawn to each other but have fundamental differences. If they are ever to have a lasting relationship, Sam must break out of his protective shell so he can understand Mollie and her view of life, and Mollie must release the fears from her past and make Sam an integral part of her life.

Suzanne Woods Fisher has written another bestseller. There are many characters in this novel, but the listing of characters at the beginning is very helpful. The plot is interesting. There is a continuing theme of God as shepherd and humans as sheep with a focus on the Bible’s twenty-third Psalm. Of course time is also an important theme. The example of dropped stitches in knitting is used metaphorically.Those dropped stitches have to be repaired. Some situations are just stitches in time or maybe a stitch just in time. Most importantly with time a life can be rewritten. This time theme reminds me of the mythological Fates who spun, measured and cut the thread of each life, thereby determining a person’s destiny.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a master of Amish fiction and Stitches in Time continues her legacy in the genre. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and look forward to the continuation of the series. Included in the novel is an intriguing teaser for the next book. Fans of chaste romance and/or religious fiction, especially Amish fiction, will enjoy this novel. Those bothered by religious themes may want to skip this one.

My thanks to Revell and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

First, this is the second book in The Deacon’s Family series, but it definitely could be read as a stand alone. The book follows the lives of Mollie Graber, Sam Schrock and Luke and Izzy Schrock who each have their own unique set of struggles and I think it’s really cool that the author wrote each of the main characters in a way that we can relate to each of them. Mollie feels led to do something big for God (she wants to make an impact in two girls lives) and unfortunately, it’s not as easy as she throught it was going to be, Sam is struggling with trusting people, because every time he loves someone, they pass away, Luke is struggling with this job that he has been given and is worried that he will let those he love down and Izzy is worried that God will not ever bless her with a child and even though she has her sheep, they just don’t seem to fill the void in her heart. The story was really good, and I LOVE the ending (it will almost make you cry – don’t worry, it’s in a good way), definitely hoping that there will be another book in the series.

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit, Netgalley and Suzanne Woods Fisher. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone

I enjoyed this heartwarming Amish story. Suzanne always writes delightful characters and I like that she has well written side characters as well!

I knew I would be missing out if I didn’t read Stitches in Time. Suzanne Woods Fisher has a way of knitting spiritual truths into the very fabric of her stories that touches my heart every time!

I loved Luke and Izzy from Mending Fences. Watching Luke turn from a life where he cared only about himself and seeking to please the Lord and care for others – yeah, what a great story! When I saw this one was going to have Luke chosen as a deacon for their community, I had to see how that happened!

I was fascinated to learn how the deacons are selected in Amish communities. Luke’s nomination and then selection came as a surprise to almost everyone – he even thought it was a joke. As he learned what it would be like to fill this role and had to navigate being newly married and caring for the needs of the congregation, there were some great life lessons learned.

I didn’t remember Izzy caring for sheep in the previous story. But she did. And learned so much about the Good Shepherd in the process. It was so great seeing the entire congregation memorizing Psalm 23 while seeing a shepherdess realizing personally what these verses meant in her life. If you have never heard a Bible study taught on this psalm, you are bound to learn many new and insightful truths from the lessons Izzy learned.

Mollie was a wonderful woman who cared deeply for the children in her charge. She had so much love; she was excited at the prospect of being able to take in a couple of sisters! When the realities of what it takes to be a successful foster parent became known, she was so surprised! I did love her innocence and optimistic attitude toward the girls and to life in general, especially once I learned what she had been through already. Moreover, I loved how she was able to draw Sam out of his shyness.

Sam was probably my favorite character. With a painful childhood, living in the shadow of his father and older brother’s reputations, neither of whom was respected. Having experienced a painful loss, he was afraid to give his heart to anyone and even refused to name the horses he trained, not allowing himself to get so close to them. His reaction to Mollie’s girls and their behavior was great! And then to see him willing to let down his walls and to begin to trust. Yay!

I can’t neglect to mention David, the bishop of the community. I loved the way he treated Luke in Mending Fences and helped to restore him not only to the community but also to God. He continually showed faith in Luke’s redemption in this story and helped him navigate the waters of being a deacon in such a great manner.

Stitches in Time is rich in truth and romance. Even if you don’t care for other Amish stories, I encourage you to give this one a try.

What a beautiful and powering story on adoption and the foster care system in an Amish community. I'm glad Suzanne Woods Fisher wrote this story on the subjects.

The Amish not only help each other but they also assist their neighbors too. That's what happens in Stoney Ridge, helping an all girls group home AND the teenage girls. Is Mollie in over her head with fostering two teenagers?

Being a newly elected Deacon isn't what young Luke Schrock had in mind in his twenties, but someone saw him as capable. Can him and his young new bride Izzy find an even balance with their marriage, their jobs, household, and at every turn a Deacon duty?

I can't wait to read book three, "Two Steps Forward" in February to find out what happens next in Stoney Ridge.

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

This is not your normal Amish Fiction book. It's not a whole lot of romance, but it's about healing the wounds of life. And every wound that has healed is called a stitch in time.

Luke Schrock has promised Amos (who was on his deathbed) that he would do what he could to empty the foster group homes in Lancaster County. When black mold is found in the group home, the Amish gather together to help the girls by taking them in. Luke wants to take in a girl, but his wife, Izzy, is resistant to the idea because she was once a foster child.

Mollie Graber is the new school teacher and would like to foster some young girls--preferably siblings. When she is assigned twins, she didn't realize that she was getting a pair of delinquents with mischief for morals and values. Sam Schrock (Luke's brother) has noticed Mollie and finds her intriguing, but he also sees that she's in over her head, especially when the girls assigned to Mollie try to steal his buggy and go for a joy ride.

Suzanne Woods Fisher does her research when she is writing an Amish book, and this is one of her absolute best. She makes the characters realistic enough to be believable. They are not perfect people, but they are people dealing with real-life situations and problems, and they do so with aplomb.

I give this book five stars, two thumbs up, and a foster child to change your life.

Revell and NetGalley.com provided the galley I read for this review. My opinions are totally my own.

This was my first book by Suzanne Woods Fisher but it will most certainly not be the last.

Effortlessly engaging, whimsical and thoughtful – what an endearing story!

Good deeds are often praises and therefore it might seems obvious that one must do it, but little is spoken about the fear and anxiety brought by them as well. When the group home for orphans undergoes renovation, the Stoney Ridge community must step in and to take care of the children. Through this opportunity to love another, the characters in this book need to face their own expectations and unknown preconceptions in order to give the best to the children put in their care.

Through mistakes and failures, humanity is shown and they learn to walk together and love each other well.

Stitches In Time is the second book in the Deacon's Family series. First let me say I am never disappointed in a new book by Suzanne Woods Fisher. I am very familiar with the Amish and read a ton of Amish fiction, but I always find a fresh and interesting story with a new book by Ms Fisher. Her writing style and character development are oustanding. This book is unique and loaded with characters from her Stony Ridge series.
This delights me, although its not necessary to have read those book to enjoy this one. I throughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one.

Stitches in Time is the second book in The Deacons Family series. Long time readers of Fisher’s novels will recognize the main character, Sam Schrock, from previous novels. It is great to read his and newcomer, Mollie’s, story as well as catch up with Luke Schrock and see his character continue to grow as a new deacon in the church. This book is both heartfelt and humorous and you will be very excited to read it if you love Amish fiction or Fisher’s previous books.

This book seem to get down to a more personal level with the Amish than many I've read. The more you read Stiches in TIme, the more you realize the Amish has as many problems as we do. Just like us, many would like to keep their problems many times a secret. Secrets, that can sometimes keep us from getting the help and guidance we need.


Mollie was my favorite character. She wanted to help and she wouldn't let anyone forget. I was sad that she thought everything was her fault.

Izzy's and Luke's story though came in though a close second. The descriptions of the store and the wonderful herd of sheep made me feel like I was right there. Nothing though is as peaceful as it seems.

I laughed, cried, I was shocked, and shed tears of joy so this book had me from the beginning and kept me turning the pages till the end. I read the preview of the next book and I can't wait to read more!


A great, great read!