Shelter in the Storm is a great book. It is easy to recommend to readers who enjoy a sweet lovestory.

What a wonderful story! Very well written and the characters just seemed to come to life as I read. This was one of the best Amish stories I’ve read in some time. Highly recommend it and will definitely be looking for more from this author.

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

This was one story that will tug at your heart strings, When the unexpected happens and changes the lives of a family they learn to lean on someone they least expect. God has a way bring people into our lives when we least expect it. Well written

Shelter in the Storm is the first book in the Johns Mill series. A new Amish series by Laurel Blount. This one is about Joseph Hochstedler and Naomi Schrock. Joseph is now the head of the family after his parents are murdered in their general store. He must take care of his sister Miriam who was with her parents at the store. He asks Naomi a friend from childhood to help out. It’s a beautiful touching story. A story where in the midst of a tragedy, God can bring love.

Shelter in the Storm is an exciting and emotional read. I was engaged with the characters from the beginning, especially Naomi. Even with her past trials, she went through, she is a compassionate woman holding tight to her faith.

The story is about two Amish people trying to get over tragedy and continue on with a forgiving heart even though tragedy strikes again.

I loved the way the author provided a good picture of Amish life and realize they aren't much different emotionally. They struggle with some of the same issues we do. It's an inspirational story steeped in faith and second chances.

I received a complimentary copy of the book and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

This book what definitely not what I expected! I didn’t read the blurb before I started it because I wanted to be surprised. And boy was I surprised! This wasn’t like many other Amish books that I have read, so that was really nice. This one was very original. I really cared for these characters and the struggles they were dealing with I was able to get invested in the story and wanted to know what is going to happen next for them. I will happily look for more books from this author!


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

Shelter in the Storm is the first book in Laurel Blount's new John Mills Amish Romance series... and what a great start to the series it was.

This was not an easy book to read as it dealt with a lot of loss... you will certainly want to keep those tissues handy. More importantly though, it is a story of hope and a story of healing. The characters were very well written and as a reader I couldn't help but be drawn into their lives. This is the first book for the author within the Amish genre, and I think she did a great job of bringing the faith and community into the story.

Overall, a sweet read that fans of Amish fiction are sure to want to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

Having read and enjoyed other stories by Laurel Blount, I was curious to see what her Amish fiction would be like. I was delighted to discover an intriguing plot rich with deep concerns of the heart, such as grief, fear, and trust.

Joseph was a very godly man, full of grace even in the face of intense grief. His compassion for the parents of the man who murdered his parents was rather astounding. As he watched what remained of his family cope with the shooting in their own way, he felt as if his family was shattering before his very eyes.

Naomi had a heart that longed to give everything it had in service to others. And yet her health had prevented her from doing just that. And now, despite having surgery to repair the defects in her heart which enabled her to fully serve, her family treated her as a burden and too weak to do anything. My heart ached for her. I loved the way her compassion and serenity overflowed to those around her.

Even though they were very enjoyable characters with these admirable qualities, Joseph and Naomi were perfectly flawed as well, harboring secrets, fear, and anger, making them more relatable.

With the media's fascination with the shooting of Joseph's parents, a major conflict arose as the Amish attempted to stand with Joseph and his family. The horrific lies that were published and an event that occurred to drive Joseph to leave town created a multi-faceted story with an intricate plot.

I recommend Shelter in the Storm to all who enjoy Amish fiction, or even to readers who simply enjoy a story with plenty of conflict and sweet romance.

I saw a bookstagrammer reviewing this book and it sounded so good, I knew I had to take a chance requesting it. This was a great book and I'm so glad I did. The back stories were presented in a good and easy to follow way. There was a good balance of internal dialogue and dialogue between the characters. The story was heartfelt, you cared (and liked) all the characters involved. All in all, it gets 5 stars from me and I can't wait to read more.

"Shelter in the Storm" was a truly refreshing and well written amish story. There was so much depth, emotion, turmoil, and joy in this book that it was truly hard at times to cypher thru all of the emotions. I felt like I was within the pages of the story in the middle of Johns Mills town. I struggled with frustration and anger at how little respect the "englishers" showed toward the Hochstedler family, and would literally have to stop reading for a time to remind myself it was just a storyline. Ms. Blount is a new author for me, and I am hooked!

The many background stories were truly remarkable in this book. There was a main theme that took place around the murder that took place at the very beginning of the book. Joseph lost his parents to a violent crime. We watched as the family of the boy who committed the murder used their place in society (his father is an attorney) to convince many families outside of The Amish community to believe their son was just protecting himself. Of course, Joseph's brother (Caleb) didn't help matters much as he struggles with The Amish beliefs. He struck a reporter (and broke his nose!). Of course this is not how The Amish respond generally, but Caleb is on the fence of leaving the community for the outside world. We all know how the media is. They grabbed onto this one event presented to them and ran with it literally stirring up many feelings against The Amish community by their neighbors. Now, Hollywood has become involved and are making a movie of the whole debacle.

Anyhow, this was the main background story that appears to be the theme for what appears will be a series. Joseph and Naomi intertwined their love story thru this time frame in Josephs family. Naomi comes with her own struggles as she has a history of heart problems. She thought those problems were fixed several years back when she finally had a major heart surgery. However, she starts experiencing symptoms that worry her and challenge whether she will truly be able to be independent of requiring others help thru the rest of her life. All she ever wanted was to experience marriage and family. However, who wants a wife with such severe medical problems in her history? Well, you'll just have to read this book to see how it unfolds! It is truly worth the read! Well done, Ms. Blount!!! You have earned a faithful follower of your books to come!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkely Publishing Group through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Naomi Schrock has had a lifetime of heart problems, but a surgery finally restored her to good health. When she discovers that Joseph Hochstedler is in need of assistance, she steps in to help as much as possible with his business, but moreso with his sister. Joseph has experienced tragedy of the worst time and he does what he can to stabilize his family.

Since the tragedy that hit his family was so awful, it has drawn the media's attention. They have a bite and they will not let go. Meanwhile, Joseph and Naomi begin to develop feelings for one another. However, neither can trust their hearts, and putting their faith into the future seems truly impossible.

This heartwarming story shares the trials of a family that is rooted in faith, love and commitment. The story is also about values and compromise. Compassion for the characters in this wonderful book came quite easy, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read.

I love that Shelter in the Storm is the first book in a new series. I cannot wait to see what characters will be featured and how they deal with the pressures of life, all while remaining true to their faith, with love as a backdrop that leads to a happy future.

Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

SHELTER IN THE STORM is the first book in the JOHNS MILL AMISH ROMANCE series, and I can’t wait to be back for more. This Amish story has layers of richness and well-drawn characters. There is so much tragedy in the story, yet it’s mixed with hope and their faith. SHELTER IN THE STORM pits Englischers against the Amish in many ways, but it also shows instances of unexpected understanding from caring members of the outside world.

Naomi has traveled from Kentucky and is visiting her cousin in Johns Mill, Tennessee. While there, she renews her friendship with a neighbor, Joseph, and his family. Joseph and his family are dealing with tragedies and being torn apart by what has occurred and continues to occur. Naomi is a comfort to him during this time of upheaval and sorrow. And something more starts to develop between them.

SHELTER IN THE STORM is an emotional read. There are many references to the church and its teachings, which gives a better understanding of what the characters might be thinking or feeling. Family is central to the story, in addition to faith and love. There is nice closure with some hints of what could be in the future. I particularly liked the cover, since it shows a somewhat unsettling narrative that also has hope. It really speaks to me.

Recommended Read!

This is a great book with lots of different angles within the story. First, you’ve got the shooting. That changes everything for everyone in the story. It rocks the entire Amish community but also the English one as well as they are both involved.

Because of the shooting changes come to Joseph and Naomi. Joseph must take over as the man of his family now that his father is gone. Their milk business is gone and they own a store in town now, but Joseph wants nothing to do with the store with the fact that his parents were murdered there.

Add in a brother full of anger and rebellion and a sister so full of anxiety she can’t even leave her room and he has his hands full. When his brother leaves the Amish community to find the person responsible for killing his parents even more falls upon Joseph alone.

Naomi enters the story in that she once was close to Joseph as a friend when he was the only normal person who wanted to be with her due to her heart condition. Now that she’s had surgery she can live a normal life. She’s been helping her cousin postpartum to take care of her baby and house. Now she changes gears to care for Joseph’s sister.

But that’s not all that’s happening! This is a wonderful book and I really hope you read it. I enjoyed reading it. It read really quickly and I found myself driven to keep reading to get through and find out the ending.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

"I know that you are struggling now to set aside your own feelings for the good of the family, like you did when it came time to sell the hard. Two such hard blows back-to-back are not so easy to bear, but you must keep trusting in the Lord. When our world goes dark, then we must hold hard to the rope of our faith , and trust Gott to lead us out. He is merciful and will bring the good out of our troubles , in His own time."

The changes in Joseph's life are disappointing, heartbreaking and throughout the course of this book, even tragic. Faith is an important part of the Amish community, and Joseph is struggling to hang on to his. Naomi, who is in the community because she is helping out her cousin, ends up providing support to Joseph's hurting family. She has had struggles of her own and does not want to return to being dependent on everyone. She wants to be needed, and her peaceful optimism sustains all of them from despairing.

Although there are elements that are found in many Amish books (doubting the faith, family conflict, curious outsiders), I do think that the author managed to combine them in a fresh way. I made a note of quite a few quotes that I liked, so that is definitely a sign that the book spoke to me. There were some unpredictable elements. The author definitely is setting up the series well. Even though this is not always my favorite genre, I want to read more in this series. The characters were interesting, and the storylines were well-developed.

I did review this book through NetGalley as a part of a JustRead tour and was provided a complimentary copy. I voluntarily signed up for the tour. All opinions are my own.

Shelter in the Storm is written by Laurel Blount. This book is book 1 in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series. I have read a few books by this author, and this book is by far my favorite. You will want to make sure that you have a lot of time to read this book for you will not want to put it down.

A troubled English man opens fire on innocent people in Hochstedler’s General Store. This opening scene is emotional and heartbreaking. Joseph Hochstedler is trying to put his life back together after this senseless act of violence. Each member of the family is affected differently. They know that they are supposed to turn the other cheek - but how does that help with the grieving and healing process.

Naomi Schrock who has a heart defect wants to help. She knows that God wants her to live a life of service. However, as she and Joseph continue to weather many storms, her faith in God is tested and strengthened. They stay true to their Amish faith while dealing with so many blows. I enjoyed seeing their interaction throughout the book.

This book contains well written characters, a intriguing (and suspenseful) story line, and is a must read. I can't wait until the next book comes out!

I received a copy of this book through the JustRead Publicity tours - all thoughts are my own.

Never having read any books by Laurel Blount, I didn't quite know what to expect. Wow, I was kind of blown away right from the start. Shelter in the Storm is a book that starts out with an unbelievably tragic event and continues with a plot that keeps the pages turning. I read the book pretty much in one day as it was hard to put down. Emotions run high as Naomi and Joseph deal with difficult circumstances that are life-changing and seemingly never-ending. Back to back hard blows that were hard to bear, yet, they knew their faith in Gott would bring them through, no matter how deep the grief. I really liked the author's writing style, good dialogue and situations keep the reader's interest high. The characters are strong, relatable, and realistic. Naomi has been through struggles for much of her life and is such an encourager to others in her life. Joseph has ideas for his life and yet when impossible situations come and change is inevitable, he stands firm in his faith and doesn't give in to self-pity. I enjoyed watching the changing aspects of their relationship as the story progressed. The community characteristic of the Amish and strong family ties are something I admire and Blount portrays them well. A Shelter in the Storm is a heartfelt story with unforgettable characters and a message of hope despite desperate times. Readers who enjoy Amish romance will not want to miss this one. I was pleased to see that this book is the first in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book through JustReads Tours and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.

Some Amish books portray this way of life as simple, uncomplicated, and free of the trials that many Englisch people experience, but that certainly isn't true. Shelter in the Storm offers a realistic look of a family who suffer an unthinkable tragedy, and the steps they must take to find forgiveness and a new normal. It also touches on serious illness, dealing with emotional trauma, brothers interested in the same woman, and there's also the very human emotion of wanting revenge. But, above all, this is a story of faith, trust, and the ability to forgive, when your life seems to be falling apart.

Author Laurel Blount has created some amazing characters, and I was especially drawn into the relationship that develops between Naomi Schrock and Joseph Hochstedler. Joseph has endured overwhelming emotional heartache, and Naomi has dealt with physical heart issues, so is it any wonder that they still find comfort in their friendship that began in childhood? Friendship, or could there be so much more?

The title of this book is extremely appropriate to this story, but also relevant to everyone. All of us, Englisch or Amish, are susceptible to storms in our lives, and the only true shelter is our faith and trust in our Heavenly Father. Shelter in the Storm is a touching and heartwarming story that offers a poignant portrayal of Amish life. I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish fiction and I look forward to reading the next book in the Johns Mill Amish Romance series.

I received a copy of this book. There was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

This book was so good! I am very anxious to read more in this series. These were such tragic circumstances, yet the book was full of hope and the love story between Joseph and Naomi was perfect.

The author did a great job of showing the way the shooting and aftermath affected each member of the Hochstedler family. One carried guilt, another intense anger, and yet another ended up with PTSD symptoms. And then there was Joseph, trying to hold everyone together. Naomi was such a blessing to him and the family.

Both Joseph and Naomi also had such interesting backstories. Naomi’s health problems growing up made her very empathetic toward others. I really loved how she related to both Joseph and Miriam. And I loved seeing Joseph’s heart heal from his earlier heartbreak and open to Naomi. It was such a sweet connection.

I am so looking forward to reading more books in the series and returning to the Hochstedler family in the future.

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

This first book in the John’s Mill Amish Romance series by Laurel Blount is my new favorite by this riveting author. I have yet to read a book from her I didn’t like. As a fan of the Amish Romance genre I thought I had seen it all. This book has all the feels of a great Amish romance: Suspense, mystery, tender innocence and the simple daily pleasures of farm life. You are taken on a carriage ride to a bygone era and immersed in a culture of traditional family values and heartfelt religious beliefs. All of this is done with a twist that somehow makes this series feel unique in its genre. The Hochstedler family is dealt a tragedy that would shake any modern family and the community comes together to support this family through their toughest time.
Out of the ashes of tragedy come the themes of forgiveness and love as two hearts are drawn together in their suffering. From the first page until the last you will be drawn in and encouraged. You will laugh. You will cry. You will not be disappointed!
I was provided with an ARC from the author and publisher through Netgalley. The opinions expressed are all my own.

Shelter in the Storm by Laurel Blount was a very captivating story. Usually the Amish are a peace-loving people, not prone to violence. However in this story, an Englisher opens fire in an Amish owned general store killing the parents of a family.

The eldest son, Joseph is trying to hold his family together. One of his brothers is out for revenge which is totally against the Amish faith. He needs help and one of his life-long friends, Naomi steps in. Although all her life Naomi has suffered from a childhood heart ailment, she hopes for the kind of life all the other Amish girls have. She is in love with Joseph, but he is reluctant to deepen their friendship because of her illness. They must find the strength and courage to face life even though they may have health problems. This was a very heart-warming book.