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.

4.5 stars.

Green Pastures by Patricia Johns is a marvelous Amish novel of forgiveness, acceptance, and love.

Tabitha Schrock’s return to her family and her Amish faith has not been without its complications. She is unable to remarry so she needs to support herself. Her Bishop has approved her to work as a veterinarian but a woman working in a man’s job is complex. Tabitha is also hoping to renew her lost friendships and her relationships with her sisters, Rachel and Rose. While she has unique insight into certain issues, does anyone want to hear her advice?

Rachel was the most affected by Tabitha leaving the Amish to marry an Englischer. The scandal arrived at the time she should have been courting, but her few prospects fizzled out. Although Rachel has resigned herself to spinsterhood, information that Menno Weaver is hunting for a wife gives her renewed hope. She is well aware of his and his family’s reputation but Rachel does not want to let this opportunity pass her by. Will Rachel and Menno find their path to a future together?

Rose and her husband Aaron have married for two years. Their marriage is currently in a fragile state and she is unsure how fix their relationship. Despite some sensible advice, will the couple find a way to reconnect and find their way back to happiness?

Green Pastures is a riveting Amish novel with a beautiful undercurrent of faith. Each of characters is well-developed with relatable foibles and strengths. The various story arcs are interesting and easy to follow. The storyline is well-written and features real life issues to overcome. Patricia Johns brings this first installment in The Amish of Sheperd’s Hill season to a heartwarming conclusion.

Green Pastures is a very exciting Amish story. The plot unfolds with Tabitha returning to Shepherd's Hill to the family farm. Divorced from an Englisher, she hopes to fit back into the Amish community while working as a licensed Veterinarian in Sheperd's Hill Amish country.

The novel has well-developed characters with many layers. The characters deal with everyday issues but in the Amish way. The descriptions of Amish life were somewhat different because of Tabitha's occupation, but each order had its own rules to follow. I was drawn to Tabitha's courage and determination to fit in. The whole family dealt with heartbreak, forgiveness, and second chances.

There were biblical references, which gave the story more substance but did create some tension. I enjoyed the budding romance. Overall, a very enjoyable story. I hated to see it end.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own

This was a strong start to the Amish of Shepherd's Hill series, it had that romance element that I was looking for and was engaged with what was happening. The characters had that feel that I wanted and was wonderfully written. I was invested in what was happening and am excited for more in this series. Patricia Johns has a strong writing style and was glad I was able to get to read this.

GREEN PASTURES is the first book in Patricia Johns’s The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill series and was jam packed with new and interesting characters that kept my interest and wanting more from this special Amish community.

From the very first page I was intrigued by the multiple interconnected storylines and found myself following each character’s journey of self discovery and fulfilment, wanting to see how each one would end. By far my favourite part was Amanda and Menno’s love story. I adored both of them, especially Menno, who I wanted to wrap in the biggest of hugs and squeeze for all I’m worth. My second favourite thing was Tabitha’s story. I was truly impressed by the incredible woman she was and everything she had overcome. My one wish is that she and Jonas can somehow get together.

This book was an absolute pleasure to read and left me with a smile on my face and the hope that good things will come to those who never lose hope. I’m giving GREEN PASTURES the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

I can't recall ever reading a book by Patricia Johns. I'm glad I read the book because it's an enjoyable read. While the book is fictional, the author makes a very valid point that the Amish are not perfect people. They struggle with relationships just as much as we Englishers do. Our approaches are different, but our hearts often yearn for the same thing: a successful relationship built on love, trust, affection, and so much more.

The story revolves around the three Shrock sisters: Rose (married), Tabitha (divorced), and Amanda (single). Each sister has her own unique set of circumstances. The Amish have their own order--their own way of life. Governed by strict rules, they must try to make the best of their own situations while remaining committed to God, family, and community. It's heartbreaking. It's challenging. Sometimes life feels utterly unfair. Yet they soldier on!

It's a good read and I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.

This book was filled with relationships and faith, the best combination!


The relationship between the three sisters was so special! Sisters don't always get along but will always be on your side.

It was interesting to me how the community responded to Tabitha returning to the Amish faith. This was a different spin on the story, which I really enjoyed.

The idea of green pastures was intriguing and gave me a lot to think about. The theme of second chances amidst addictions added to the story as well.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.