If you’ve been around here for a minute, you know that I’m pretty picky about the Amish fiction I choose to read. I’m not super interested in the ones that make Amish communities into some type of utopia, but I do love the stories that feature characters with real flaws and strengths and dreams and hurts and faith and all the things that make us human. Green Pastures by Patricia Johns is exactly the kind of Amish fiction I enjoy, and I so appreciated all the multidimensional characters she introduced to us in this first book of her new series.

We meet Tabitha Schrock right away… as she sets a bull’s broken leg. Yeah, definitely not a typical scenario for an Amish female lead, right? But Tabitha isn’t a typical Amish female lead. After all, she jumped the fence during rumspringa to marry an Englischer and become a veterinarian, but she’s now back home and Amish once more after a heartbreaking divorce. I loved that she still gets to be the community’s veterinarian, in spite of all of the above, and I enjoyed watching her blaze a trail in proving herself and her work to longtime friends & family. It’s not an easy environment to come back to, especially as the consequences of her leaving carry forward with some lonely ramifications, but these are such intriguing layers to explore. And I’m really hoping that this book isn’t the last we’ll see of her story because I have a feeling her future isn’t quite as set as she thinks it is (looking at you, Jonas Peachy).

Tabitha isn’t the only complexly-layered character in Green Pastures, though. Not only are her younger sisters each dealing with complicated relationship plot twists in their own lives, but their father is a mass of contradictions himself. He mostly drove me crazy with his stubbornness (lol) but every once in a while he would show his heart as a tender dad who just wants to protect his girls. There’s also one unexpected scene that had me cheering out loud for him, and it endeared him to me henceforth and forevermore, general orneriness notwithstanding. As for Tabitha’s sisters, I so related to both Amanda and Rose, albeit in different ways and in different stages of my life. And then there’s the young man who’s dared to break some generational chains (oh his family is a heap of flaws and heartbreak), and he’s dared to do so in ways that are unconventional for the Amish. I absolutely adored Menno in every way and spent most of the book just wanting to give him a big hug.

Bottom Line: Green Pastures by Patricia Johns is a compelling combination of storylines that follow several different characters connected to the Schrock family of Shepherd’s Hill. Tabitha, Amanda, and Menno were particularly well-developed with growth arcs that aren’t quite as common in Amish fiction and layers that immediately drew my attention and kept me invested. I enjoyed the author’s engaging writing voice, the gently meaningful faith threads, and the seamless switch between the different character POVs. If you enjoy the storytelling styles of authors like Suzanne Woods Fisher & Shelley Shepard Gray, then you’ll definitely enjoy Green Pastures too. I am eager for more books in this series!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

GREEN PASTURES is the first book by Patricia Johns that I have read, but wow, it won’t be the last. Tabitha has come back to Shepherd’s Hill, Pennsylvania. While she was on her rumspringa, she jumped the fence and ran away. She married an English man and now being away from her family and living English for ten years, she is back. She is divorced and trying to get her life back together. Since she is now divorced, she knows she can’t marry an Amish man so she tries to put everything she is into her veterinarian practice. Of course, that alone, gets many of the Amish tongues wagging with gossip about her.

After reading GREEN PASTURES I found myself thinking about Tabitha and her sisters long after I finished their story. I was totally invested in their lives and was cheering for them the whole time I was reading. Often, I was yelling at Tabitha not to make the choices she was making and sometimes I was laughing out loud at the things she was saying. GREEN PASTURES is filled with love, forgiveness, letting go, and some romance. I loved the interaction between Amanda, Tabitha’s sister, and her neighbor, Menno. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. Patricia John’s writing held me captive from the very first page until the last page. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Amish of Shepherd’s Hill series.

GREEN PASTURES is about Amanda learning to trust her heart and Menno and letting go of the past. Patricia John sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with the family dealing with all their troubles. She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Patricia Johns book if you are a fan of the Amish genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again.

GREEN PASTURES really pulls at your heart strings. I was instantly caught up in the characters lives and business. It was almost as if I were sitting at the table with them and we were all friends. Tabitha’s friends and loved ones are all pulling for her and trying to help her adjust to moving back home to Shepherd’s Hill, Pennsylvania . It is wonderful that she has their support because she is really going to need it. Patricia Johns novel sure did leave me thinking about the choices I have made in my own life and how I can be a better person. I look forward to reading more of this heartfelt series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

This is probably one of the most intriguing Amish fiction books that I’ve read. The main character, Tabitha, is a prodigal daughter to the Amish way of life, and this book tells her story of choosing to come back to the Amish people. She is anything but a conventional Amish woman: divorced, a trained veterinarian, and willing to have a career instead of marriage and family.

The book tells her story of reintegration and also her sister’s story of her last attempt to avoid becoming an old maid.

All of the book points to finding meaning and purpose through your story and the people you surround yourself with:
“The foundational truth stood solid: There was strength in community.”

Overall, it’s a great book. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about the Amish culture, and anyone who is looking for a squeaky clean romance. Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy. A review was not required.

This Christian fiction book follows the story of 3 Amish sisters and their father Abram. Tabitha leaves the Amish faith and community to get married, becomes a vet, but then returns home after her divorce. Rose is married and lives close by the family farm but is having a hard time adjusting to her marriage after only two years. Amanda cooks, cleans and looks after this father and is considered old in her late 20's by not being married.

I liked the different Amish and English perspectives of the sisters on different topics like marriage, dating, communicating and every day life. I also liked reading Tabitha's and Amanda's experiences with providing medical care to the local animals and Tabitha trying to make a name for herself again in the Amish community where she grew up.

Relationships and friendships are introduced in this story and I wish all three girls received a "happily ever after" story to their lives because they all deserved it. I hope we will hear more about the sisters in future Amish of Shepherd's Hill books.

This story addresses hard things that unfortunately also happen in an Amish community like addictions, abuse, marriage problems, etc. I liked how the characters made these situations relatable and how God can help strengthen and direct his children.

I really enjoyed this sweet family Amish book about love, faith and second chances. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.

Patricia Johns' "Green Pastures" is a captivating, heartfelt novel that immerses readers in the rich traditions of the Amish community of Shepherd's Hill. With remarkable sensitivity and insight, Johns weaves together the compelling stories of the three Schrock sisters as they navigate the delicate balance between personal desires and community expectations.

Tabitha Schrock's return to her Amish roots after her rumspringa departure and subsequent divorce creates ripples throughout Shepherd's Hill. Her determination to pursue her veterinary ambitions while reintegrating into Amish society showcases the novel's central theme of reconciling individual dreams with communal responsibilities. Johns portrays Tabitha's struggles with such nuance that readers can't help but root for her journey toward healing and belonging.

Meanwhile, Amanda Schrock's character arc is equally engaging as she boldly pursues romance with a man carrying a complicated past. Her willingness to seek love after years of dimmed prospects (following Tabitha's departure) speaks to the resilience and hope that permeates this story. The youngest sister, Rose, despite her beauty and romantic hopes, provides a poignant counterpoint as she grapples with the harsh realities of matrimony and the weight of vows made before Gott and community, creating some of the book's most reflective and emotionally resonant moments.

What makes "Green Pastures" truly exceptional is Johns' ability to portray the Amish way of life with authenticity and respect while still examining the universal human struggles within this specific context. The lush descriptions of Lancaster County create a vivid backdrop for this tale of sisters bound by blood, faith, and their promises to both themselves and their community.

This novel will resonate deeply with readers who appreciate stories of family bonds, spiritual journeys, and the courage it takes to remain true to oneself while honoring traditions. Patricia Johns has crafted a warm, thought-provoking tale that lingers in the heart long after the final page is turned.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion

I am in awe of this story and what the sister have to deal with. Through it all they live by their faith and trust in God and his ways. You will not be disappointed by this story or the characters.
I was given a copy of this book and I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

I am a retired Veterinarian and I also enjoy reading books set in the Amish community. So, I jumped at the chance to read this book. Tabitha Schrock has returned to her Amish community after "jumping the fence" and marrying an Englisher. Unfortunately, her husband cheats on their marriage and she is now returning to her Amish community as a fully trained Veterinarian. But, the road to being able to fit in will be a long one and she is determined to work hard at being accepted, both as an unwed Amish woman and a Veterinarian.

Her younger sister, Amanda, has felt the effects of Tabitha's choice and now longs to be a wife and mother. But, she is having difficulty in finding a suitable man to fulfill her dreams. Then, there is the other Schrock sister, Rose, who is supposedly happily married. But, it soon becomes apparent that looks can be deceiving!

I especially enjoyed reading about Tabitha's veterinary cases and how her community comes to accept her expertise. It is wonderful to see the budding romance between Amanda and former wild boy Menno evolve into something truly special.

Throughout the book, the ideas of faith, community and relationships are explored and provide some emotional and uplifting scenes. As the characters discover:

"There was strength in community.
Gott was the Gott of second chances.
The treasures - it's us. Relationships. People."

This is a well-written book, with great characters, a touch of romance and wonderful reminders of what a deep faith in God will do for anyone who asks.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

Green Pastures is a wonderful Amish romantic fiction novel and the start of a new series that you won’t want to miss out on. This book follows one of a set of three Amish sisters. She left the Amish life behind. And now after a divorce, she’s back and returning to her faith. It’s a time of adjustment. It’s a time of reintegrating herself into her old life. But it’s also a totally different life because she is different.

This is a bit different than your normal Amish novel. They’re breaking stigmas and working in jobs that you don’t think are Amish. For instance, Tabitha is working as a vet.

These sisters have to learn to listen to each other. Not just listen with their ears but listen with their being, their heart, to what is really being said.

I really enjoyed the characters in this book. They were real and truly felt like real people that I was getting to know. I can’t wait to come back to this place in the next novel in the series. Nobody has a truly perfect life and I think we see that in this series. Each of the sisters has something they struggle with, a burden if you will, that they must overcome.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. 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.

“*The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.”*

This has always been one of my favorite Psalms, and restoration and reconciliation is such a beautiful message that was incredibly powerful and prevalent in Green Pastures.

I appreciate the premise of three sisters banding together to help one another navigate through life during a time of transition.  There is a lot of introspection as everyone is trying to navigate the next step in their lives while also reconciling choices of the past.  This is something we all do at one time or another in our lives and felt very real to me.  This is a novel that has a slower pace, which fits well with the feel of the Amish lifestyle while also giving time for the reader to absorb the characters and conflicts.

Second chances and giving people the opportunity to show that they’ve changed is a huge theme in this novel, which I think is a timely message and something that echoed with me long after I put down the book.  I enjoyed the pace and conflicts, but what I adored most of all was the support and love that were clearly highlighted.  Marriage is a major theme in this novel, but it’s more the love of family than romantic love that spoke to me the most and made this narrative feel even more special.

This story is about the love of three sisters who lead very different lives in their Amish community. It’s primarily from the point of view of the oldest sister, Tabitha, and the middle sister, Amanda.

Tabitha leaves the Amish community for ten years, living in the English world, getting married, and divorcing. When she returns, the Amish community is forgiving and welcomes her back, allowing her to continue working as a veterinarian, even though it’s considered men’s work. Since she is divorced, she cannot marry an Amish man, which brings a different type of heartbreak but Tabitha is content with her decision. I admire her bravery in returning and building a new type of Amish life for herself.

Amanda, is left unmarried partly because of her sister‘s decision to become English but longs for a family of her own. She learns that Menno Weaver is looking for a wife. His reputation isn’t the best because of his family’s choices and his own troubled past, but he is working hard to change. I feel connected to Amanda because choosing to love someone who fights an addiction daily is not an easy choice, but it can be worth the risk. And I absolutely fell in love with Menno myself!

This book is beautifully written. There were moments that made me laugh, times when I had tears in my eyes, and times when I couldn’t help but smile. Every part has meaning and depth, full of love for people of all types of backgrounds and God. There are hints of a possible love story for Tabitha in future books, and I can’t wait to see how that unfolds given her circumstances.

This is a great read for anyone who loves Amish romance, real-life marriage struggles (Amish or not), and stories that show what the power of family, community, and God can do.

𝘐 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Green Pastures, by Patricia Johns, is the first book in The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill series. This is a well written story that is easy to read with nice characters. The story focuses on the Schrock family, which include the father and three grown sister. This story gives a look into each of the sister’s lives and their struggles. It also shows how the father feels about certain things based on his past experiences.

This is an enjoyable story to read. It mainly focuses on family, faith, honesty and communication while it gives a look into some of the rules of the Amish faith. One of the things I enjoyed about this story is how it shows that women are capable of earning a degree and working in a field traditionally held by men. I enjoyed how the sisters worked together to held Tabitha care for the animals in the community and how they care for each other. I also enjoyed how accepting the community was of how she cared for them. One of the things that stands out for me in this story is when Tabitha explains to Amanda that their father is visiting with her boyfriends is not to make choices for her but for her father to get to know the man she has chosen and making peace with it.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

A standout introduction to her new series, author Patricia Johns gives us Green Pastures. This is not only a love story, it's a tender and thoughtful examination of the relationship of the Schrock family; sisters Tabitha, Amanda (the subject of this book's love story), and Rose, along with their widowed father.
The author touches on some hard-hitting subjects in this book, but also shows the light and hope that shines through trials and tribulations. While there is unwavering faith in "Gott", it's refreshing to read about the doubts, questions, and worries, and how they are addressed. I absolutely loved this story, and am already looking forward to the next in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

The more I read Patricia Johns’ Amish fiction, the more I enjoy it. Her simply sweet stories are both engaging and memorable. Everyone can relate to life not turning out the way you hoped or planned. But God is still there. These sisters, with their trials and triumphs, will find their way into your heart and refuse to leave long after the book is over. I especially loved the Psalm 23 references and eagerly look forward to book 2. Green Pastures, and the series it introduces, is not to be missed.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My Review
☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️

Green pastures.
Patricia Johns.

Perfectly written.

A wonderful amish story about sisters.

Tabitha, returns to the amish community to the faith and amish ways. A wonderful female veterinarian. something you don't normally see within the amish community.

Simply a wonderful story, i simply loved everything about this story. It actually touches your heart. So many wonderful characters. They just come alive in the story.

I loved how much love.The sister showed each other throughout the story. The amish bonds are strong.

Friendships love and laughter.
The amish ways are just absolutely wonderful.
Everyone cares for everyone.

Every time I read a book by this author. They get better and better.
I absolutely love her work.

Green Pastures by Patricia Johns revolves around the three Schrock sisters: Tabitha, Amanda, and Rose. The characters are developed and realistic. I appreciate seeing that Amish people are not perfect. The Amish struggle with the same issues as Englischers (alcoholism, stubborn fathers, gossipy relatives, negative thoughts, infertility, yearning for love, and more) and some problems that are unique to the Amish. The story is well-written and engaging. I liked that the story had a female Amish veterinarian (a rarity). I do not know how she performed her duties in a dress with an apron and a kapp (I would not have lasted a day in a dress). I liked the different story arcs and how they all tied together into one satisfying story. I wish, though, that one sister’s storyline had a better resolution (I cannot tell you because that would be a spoiler). I hope that this sister will be featured in an upcoming book and get the happy ending that she deserves. I like how faith was threaded throughout the book. I finished the story with a smile on my face. Green Pastures is the first installment in The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill series, and I cannot wait for Still Waters to come out at the beginning of November. Green Pastures is a heartwarming tale with a veterinarian sister, marital miseries, a suffering horse, an endearing runt, a bothersome brother, and learning that God is our friend.

Green Pastures is the first book I have read by Patricia Johns and it did not disappoint. Having ties to the Mennonite faith personally I can relate to the Amish on some level.

The character development in this story was great. There was a lot of charters that we see evolve throughout the book. The three sisters-Tabitha, Amanda and Rose are all in the middle of life changing experiences. I loved seeing Tabitha navigate her life after divorce and the Amish community while also trying to support herself through being a veterinarian. Amanda is trying to navigate courting Menno. Which Menno in himself goes through some amazing development battling alcoholism, abandonment, and the return of his mother. Rose going through a lot as a newlywed and navigating what it means to be a wife. There were so many layers to each character.

The setting was enjoyable. Who doesn’t love a good Amish story set on rolling farmlands in Lancaster County. The storyline was fun. It has been a while since I have read a story with so many main characters and intertwining stories.

The romance was sweet a low spice. Just the way I appreciate it. It was a slow build and courtship style.

Patricia Johns did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.

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

“Green Pastures” is a very heartwarming story about Amish life, love, and faith. It has very well-developed characters and a realistic portrayal of Amish life. I especially enjoyed Tabitha, and would love to read more about her life in following stories. This was the first book in the “Amish of Shepherd’s Hill” series. “Green Pastures” is a wonderful story that will appeal to fans of Amish fiction and romance.

Amish fiction readers will love this new series, The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill. This very realistic story focuses on relationships as the eldest sister returns home after a divorce. Tabitha tries to fit back into the community but as a licensed veterinarian, she will obstacles to overcome. Sisters Rose and Amanda both issues of their own to deal with. Real issues and relatable characters make this an engaging storyline. Highly recommended!

This is a lovely Amish story. Featuring the Shrock sisters, this story shows just how a family is affected by the return of a shunned member. There are second chances, romance, a marriage on the rocks, healing from the past, and redemption themes in this book. I really enjoyed Patricia’s books and can’t wait for the next in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC for my honest review.

I was thankful to be given a chance to read and review this book through LibraryThing. I enjoyed the story, it was a new twist to the Amish-themed books. The main characters were fairly well developed, and the story flowed well.

But there was still editing to be done. I realize this was an ARC, but with it being published by Bethany House I expected more. All in all I give it a solid 4 out of five star review. Mostly because of the unusual theme and it was well written.