This was such a sweet small town, second chance romance! I really loved both Dakota and Hudson as characters. Dakota was a very stubborn, but hard working, go getter type. While Hudson was consumed by grief that he wasn’t ready to acknowledge.

The two of them together made such a realistic and relatable pair. The awkwardness of the first time seeing your ex since breaking up to just the undeniable connection and love between the two was really beautifully written.

Not only did I love Dakota and Hudson, all the side characters mentioned throughout were so fun and relatable and stole my heart as well!

This is my first Amy Clipston book, but it definitely won’t be my last! I’m so excited to dive into her other novels!

I would highly recommend this to my book besties who love second chance romance, small town settings and deep, relatable characters!

Thank you so much to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me the ARC of this book! 🫶🏻

I was given an ARC of this book through NetGalley to honestly read and review.
I love a second chance romance and this book did not disappoint. Dakota and Hudson dated through high school and college. They were engaged to be married until Dakota called the wedding off and Hudson left for NYC. A few years have passed. Hudson did all he set out to do and is now ready for something new. Dakota has opened her own business but things are not going well.
Hudson gets a call from his little sister and she is engaged to be married. What is a brother to do but head home and try to talk some sense into his baby sister. Can he go back home and still avoid seeing the one who broke his heart?
I enjoyed this story so much. I especially liked how eventually Dakota and Hudson both took responsibility for their actions in the past and the present. However, the miscommunication got a little tiring throughout this book. Hudson's attitude needed a major adjustment. Dakota needed to grow up and learn to admit when she was struggling. I would recommend just know going in that miscommunication or lack of any communication is strong is this one.

I usually adore a second chance love story so I was excited for the premise of this book. Unfortunately it didn’t work out for me. It was slow and dull. More of the plot was focused on the side relationships than the main relationship. I never felt a spark from the couple and the reason they broke up in the first place didn’t fully make sense to me. Sadly a miss.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone.

"With this Ring" by Amy Clipston is such as sweet and clean, second chance romance book. Dakota is someone that's relatable. She's a girl who can sew amazing dresses, has the cutest sounding wedding dress shop and loves to roller skate. Then there's her ex Hudson - rich, handsome and has a need to control everyone and everything around him. The supporting characters in this one are great as well, especially Dakota's teenage niece Skye. Overall enjoyable cast of characters.

The story was well paced. The struggles Dakota has with her dress shop are relatable for anyone who has started their own small business. The scenes in the roller rink were fun and well executed (including cute kids giving some sweet energy to the book) and Hudson's strong willed sister and her wedding add an extra layer of tension in the book. This one kept me engaged from beginning to end.

I really like the modern romances that Clipston is writing these days. Her Flowering Grove books are all standalones in a cute small town. She's built a world worthy of a Hallmark type movie.

I'd recommend this one to ages 16+. Content is clean and story is appropriate for older teens.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Hudson & Dakota

I didn’t like Hudson. Not at first. I almost thought of him as the bad guy. He’d chosen money and work, over Dakota. At least that’s what I’d thought.

Turns out… when a relationship ends… both people are usually at fault. And that was true for Hudson and Dakota.

I loved watching them work through their fears, addressing their issues and inconsistencies, admitting their wrongs — to each other and to their families.

But thanks to NetGalley and ThomasNelson for the chance to read and review early!

4.5 stars. I really enjoyed reading this book! The town of Flowering Grove is small town Americana. I love the roller rink! It brought back many fun memories to me.

The characters' personalities are very realistic. Life is not all sunshine and roses. Dakota is dealing with huge problems in her personal and business life. I totally related with her because I too like to handle everything by myself and find it hard to ask for help. Hudson acts like a huge jerk for most of the book. However, when he reveals the truth about his concerns, his heart is in the right place. Kayleigh is the perfect best friend. She offers great advice but isn't pushy. Aunt Trudy is a gem. She has a heart of gold.

The love story is a slow burn, but for good reasons. A lot of heartache had to be repaired along with trust. It's a clean romance with a few kisses. The ending of the book is heartwarming!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

This book is a second chance romance filled with lots of tension and lessons to be learned by all. Dakota is a struggling business owner in her hometown and in walks Hudson back to town. Hudson is a well respected and rich business man who seems to intimidate those close to him with his money and stubborn opinions.

Although he is back for a good reason Hudson finds himself struggling with family and relationship issues but he learns a heartwarming lesson in the end. Will his turnaround be in time to save probably one of the most important relationships of his lifetime? 4.5 stars

I really enjoyed the location of this book. Flowering Grove, NC is a charming little town, and I really enjoyed getting to meet Dakota and her shop - Fairytale Bridal Shop. I loved how it stressed how overworked she was, how stressed and tired she was, and just how she worked so hard. to provide a happily ever after for others - not for herself. Hudson has grown up, moved away and started a successful tech company - only he kind of loses his way when he sells it and finds himself back in his hometown. He returns and enters a great deal of chaos - his sister is getting married and needs help to plan everything. Only problem? That just leads him straight back to his ex - the one he broke up with and has regretted ever since. He and Dakota work together to give his sister the ultimate wedding and they grow close, only to evaluate everything - all the prior things that came up that drove them apart.

I wish there had been more - more after the reconnection, more of the longing even - the slow building second chance romance was fine - i just think it lacked a bit more depth.

Thank you to NetGalley for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.

With This Ring is the first book I have read written by Amy Clipston. It was an easy read with hallmark like vibes. The story caught me right from the start.
The character development was good. It was fun getting to know Dakota and Hudson as they worked through their past relationship and what drove them to become who they are today.
The setting and storyline had the making of a hallmark movie. I loved the small town. I loved that Dakota owned a wedding dress shop. It was a fun setting.
The romance was closed door and perfect. I loved the rekindled relationship between Dakota and Hudson.
The faith aspect was a little on the light side. I would have liked to have a little more.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

With This Ring was the most adorable second chance book. Not just a second chance in love but also with family. Dakota & Hudson were precious & now i want to open my own bridal shop! I loved all the vivid detail in the story, and felt like I was there with the characters. This was my first book by Amy Clipston but it won't be my last!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3/5 stars

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

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

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

It's a very good story that I enjoyed reading

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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