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The Amish Quiltmaker #4
The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match
Not yet published
Expected 2 Jan 79Filled with her trademark humor and relatable characters, award-winning author Jennifer Beckstrand's blends quilting, matchmaking, and a close-knit Colorado community in her newest Amish Quiltmaker novel, as independent-minded quilter Esther Kiem sets her sights on an unusual match between the shyest Yoder sister and a professional baseball player…
Perfect for fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Wanda Brunstetter, and Linda Byler.
Though Mary Yoder longs to marry someday, she finds caring for her community’s injured and sick is much easier than courting. But when Englischer Clay Markham crashes his car nearby, Mary’s nursing shows her his hidden wounds are more painful than his injuries. Though she’s irresistibly drawn to his kind nature, can she risk letting him into her heart?
On the run from his troubled past, ex-pro baseball player Clay can’t believe the quiet sanctuary he’s found under Mary’s care. Her gentle faith and knowledge are somehow giving him hope he can change his life—and offer her the love she truly deserves. But when his secrets catch up with him, can he and Mary find the courage to face the truth, set things to rights . . . and make way for a future together?
Perfect for fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Wanda Brunstetter, and Linda Byler.
Though Mary Yoder longs to marry someday, she finds caring for her community’s injured and sick is much easier than courting. But when Englischer Clay Markham crashes his car nearby, Mary’s nursing shows her his hidden wounds are more painful than his injuries. Though she’s irresistibly drawn to his kind nature, can she risk letting him into her heart?
On the run from his troubled past, ex-pro baseball player Clay can’t believe the quiet sanctuary he’s found under Mary’s care. Her gentle faith and knowledge are somehow giving him hope he can change his life—and offer her the love she truly deserves. But when his secrets catch up with him, can he and Mary find the courage to face the truth, set things to rights . . . and make way for a future together?
272 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Expected publication January 2, 2079
84 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Beckstrand
60 books887 followersJennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, The Honeybee Sisters series, The Petersheim Brothers series and The Amish Quiltmaker series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Her sweet romantic Western series, Cowboys of the Butterfly Ranch, features feisty heroines and tough-as-nails cowboys sprinkled with Jennifer’s trademark humor and happy endings. Maggie and Max is the third book in that series. Dandelion Meadows is her new, sweet small-town romance series, set in a quirky little town in Idaho. Jennifer has written thirty-eight Amish romances, three sweet romantic Westerns, two sweet contemporaries, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. Jennifer is a member of ACFW and is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency. She and her husband have been married thirty-nine years, and she has six children and eleven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 23, 2024
Jennifer Beckstrand never fails to draw me into her books and The Amish Quiltmaker’s Unlikely Match didn’t disappoint this reader. The Author’s books are usually humorous and this story had me laughing out loud . Actually this book had a lot of different emotions blended into the story. I loved the characters and the plot of the story. I thought it was a cute romance but not very realistic. That isn’t a bad thing however when I take into account that I’m reading fiction. I loved the cover and the book’s title suits the story. I’m glad I got to read this delightful book.
Mary Yoder isn’t interested in romance. At 28 years of age she’s considered to be an old maid by her Amish friends and family . That was before Clay Markham accidentally came crashing into her life. The two had absolutely nothing in common. She’s Amish and he’s an Englischer. She’s plain and he’s famous. She makes quilts and he’s a Major League Baseball pitcher. Is this a fairytale or what? This is their story and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Romance, Christian Fiction and Women’s Fiction. It’s part of a series but can be read as a standalone. This book is scheduled to be released on 1/23/24.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance readers copy of The Amish Quiltmaker’s Unlikely Match. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#TheAmishQuiltmakersUnlikelyMatch #NetGalley
Mary Yoder isn’t interested in romance. At 28 years of age she’s considered to be an old maid by her Amish friends and family . That was before Clay Markham accidentally came crashing into her life. The two had absolutely nothing in common. She’s Amish and he’s an Englischer. She’s plain and he’s famous. She makes quilts and he’s a Major League Baseball pitcher. Is this a fairytale or what? This is their story and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Romance, Christian Fiction and Women’s Fiction. It’s part of a series but can be read as a standalone. This book is scheduled to be released on 1/23/24.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance readers copy of The Amish Quiltmaker’s Unlikely Match. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#TheAmishQuiltmakersUnlikelyMatch #NetGalley
October 23, 2023
Such a lovely Amish love story.
You hope it ends well, but the story has many turns you ate not sure until the end how it will work out.
Amish stories are such calming stories to read. Love them and this new author to me has written with a flowing style that you just want to keep reading.
Thankyou. Loved it
You hope it ends well, but the story has many turns you ate not sure until the end how it will work out.
Amish stories are such calming stories to read. Love them and this new author to me has written with a flowing style that you just want to keep reading.
Thankyou. Loved it
October 16, 2023
This was a difficult read for me, I love this author's books, but this one was not one of them!
The values of the Amish and the adherence to the rules that keep them in their faith, and yes, they do have rumspringa, but this is a story of a woman whom had already been baptised.
There is a lot of drama here and the news media, especially one, that you will really dislike. Then again, for the Amish to call the news and participate?
You will need to judge for yourself, but this is not a typical story.
I dd enjoy the ending!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
The values of the Amish and the adherence to the rules that keep them in their faith, and yes, they do have rumspringa, but this is a story of a woman whom had already been baptised.
There is a lot of drama here and the news media, especially one, that you will really dislike. Then again, for the Amish to call the news and participate?
You will need to judge for yourself, but this is not a typical story.
I dd enjoy the ending!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 30, 2023
Love, mistakes and forgiveness
I loved, loved Mary and Clay heartwarming, healing and sweet Amish romance. This one had me feeling all the feels - laughing, crying, swooning, cringing, teeth gritting, and cheering. Mary is Amish and is one of four sisters. At 28 she accepts that she’s an old maid. Clay is an Englischer and a pitcher for a professional baseball team. After pitching poorly in a championship game, he drives drunk and crashes into Mary’s family’s barn. Instead of just paying for the damage, Clay agrees to fix it himself. Thus begins their beautiful journey of love and healing. Mary and Clay really spoke to my heart. I have a soft spot for people, like Clay and Mary, who are a bit uncomfortable in their skin because they don’t feel like they fit in or are worthy. So I love when they finally see their true worth and they get swoon worthy HEAs. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline. It was a beautifully crafted story of painful pasts, grace, forgiveness, and love all within the beautiful backdrop of the Amish community’s faith and lifestyle as shown through sweet moments, mundane life snippets, supportive family, friendships, and life choices. I loved the juxtaposition of Mary and Clay’s reactions to and misunderstandings of their vastly different lifestyles and backgrounds with the many ways they were the same as messy children of God.
I loved, loved Mary and Clay heartwarming, healing and sweet Amish romance. This one had me feeling all the feels - laughing, crying, swooning, cringing, teeth gritting, and cheering. Mary is Amish and is one of four sisters. At 28 she accepts that she’s an old maid. Clay is an Englischer and a pitcher for a professional baseball team. After pitching poorly in a championship game, he drives drunk and crashes into Mary’s family’s barn. Instead of just paying for the damage, Clay agrees to fix it himself. Thus begins their beautiful journey of love and healing. Mary and Clay really spoke to my heart. I have a soft spot for people, like Clay and Mary, who are a bit uncomfortable in their skin because they don’t feel like they fit in or are worthy. So I love when they finally see their true worth and they get swoon worthy HEAs. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline. It was a beautifully crafted story of painful pasts, grace, forgiveness, and love all within the beautiful backdrop of the Amish community’s faith and lifestyle as shown through sweet moments, mundane life snippets, supportive family, friendships, and life choices. I loved the juxtaposition of Mary and Clay’s reactions to and misunderstandings of their vastly different lifestyles and backgrounds with the many ways they were the same as messy children of God.
October 17, 2024
I've liked others of this author's books, but I'm having major issues with this one.
By chapter 9, I'm finding that I really don't like Clay (the male protagonist) very much. He looks pretty childish and thinks everything can be handled with cash and gifts. He has not taken the time to understand the Amish way of life at all. Mary has a way of making things worse (at least in her mind) and does what I consider a lot of non-Amish things to keep him around the farm because she has fallen madly in love with him in this short amount of time.
However, by the end of chapter 9, most of Clays' issues will have been revealed, making me a little softer toward him and understanding why he is the way he is.
The secondary character I like the most is Cathy, a non-Amish family friend and driver for the Amish. She is 84 years old and says what's on her mind, no matter who she hurts. She does always apologize for it, though, and that redeems her!
Lastly, what we read towards the end of this book...well, let's say that we have to suspend our disbelief just a little too far, in my opinion. I think the Bishop would have banned Mary for the stunt she pulls!
But all in all, it was a fast, pleasant read.
*ARC supplied for review by the publisher Zebra Books, the author, and NetGalley.
By chapter 9, I'm finding that I really don't like Clay (the male protagonist) very much. He looks pretty childish and thinks everything can be handled with cash and gifts. He has not taken the time to understand the Amish way of life at all. Mary has a way of making things worse (at least in her mind) and does what I consider a lot of non-Amish things to keep him around the farm because she has fallen madly in love with him in this short amount of time.
However, by the end of chapter 9, most of Clays' issues will have been revealed, making me a little softer toward him and understanding why he is the way he is.
The secondary character I like the most is Cathy, a non-Amish family friend and driver for the Amish. She is 84 years old and says what's on her mind, no matter who she hurts. She does always apologize for it, though, and that redeems her!
Lastly, what we read towards the end of this book...well, let's say that we have to suspend our disbelief just a little too far, in my opinion. I think the Bishop would have banned Mary for the stunt she pulls!
But all in all, it was a fast, pleasant read.
*ARC supplied for review by the publisher Zebra Books, the author, and NetGalley.
August 23, 2023
When Mary Yoder, an experienced quiltmaker decides to work on a Drunkard’s Path design for her quilt, her eighty-year-old Englisher friend superstitiously warns her that what she is working on could come into her life. Mary laughs at the silly thought but literally a day later baseball superstar bad boy, Clay Markham crashes his car into her barn. Mary’s father insists the young man fix the damage himself and not just write a check and soon Clay becomes a fixture in the Yoder household. A beautiful love starts to develop between the shy Mary and the lost, depressed, and newly sober Clay. Everyone can see that the situation is going to have a bad ending, he is English, and she is Amish. But Mary’s heart doesn’t get the message.
Jennifer Beckstrand’s novel is a delightful, well-written, romantic read. Her characters feel real, and the story sparkles with humor and wisdom. The side character 80 year old Englisher Cathy who often drives the Amish around is wonderfully funny and intrinsic to the plot. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you up all hours reading. For those who love Amish stories, I highly recommend this one.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Jennifer Beckstrand’s novel is a delightful, well-written, romantic read. Her characters feel real, and the story sparkles with humor and wisdom. The side character 80 year old Englisher Cathy who often drives the Amish around is wonderfully funny and intrinsic to the plot. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you up all hours reading. For those who love Amish stories, I highly recommend this one.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
July 8, 2023
Thank you netgallery for this ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. Jennifer Beckstrand is a new author for me to read and I enjoyed every page. The humour in the writing and the characters was a pleasant surprise as I haven't come across that in any of the Amish stories I have read before. I find the Amish culture and way of life so interesting and inspiring, reading these stories is a great way to escape from the modern world. I shall read more from this author. I recommend this book!
September 16, 2023
I always enjoy Jennifer Beckstrands books. They are well written, light hearted and easy to connect with the characters. Any time you have matchmakers in a book, be prepared for funny mishaps, unlikely matches and misunderstandings.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
July 20, 2023
I really enjoyed Clay and Mary's story. Two caring loving people from two different worlds finding each other and maybe having a happy ending.
October 18, 2023
I’ve loved all of the books in Jennifer Beckstrand’s Amish Quiltmaker Amish romance series and “The Amish Quilt Maker's Unlikely Match” may be my favorite yet (although I think I say that after each book in the series!). This book takes two seemingly different characters – Mary Yoder is Amish, a bit shy but a very good at taking care of the sick in her community; Clay Markham is a millionaire baseball player who is used to the limelight – yet their romance is (mostly) believable. As the book goes on readers discover that the two have more in common than they think – both have secrets in their past that are keeping them from moving forward. This is done nicely with just the right amount of humor to balance the more serious parts – Englisch driver Cathy continues to be one of my favorite characters in any series that I have read. I really enjoyed the romance between the two although I had to suspend belief a few times – Mary must have the most lenient Bishop (and father for that matter) in the history of the Amish! Still it is a book full of memorable characters, a nice romance, and a great deal of humor and I highly recommend reading it.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
October 9, 2023
I received an advanced copy of this book from Kensington Publishing, opinions expressed in review are completely my own. A car crashes into Mary Yoder's family barn late one night. It ignites a fire, not only to the barn but to the hearts of Mary and baseball player Clay Marham. Each has secrets to their pasts that pop up in the most unopportune time. While Clay must fix the damage he has made to the barn he finds solice in the simple life that Mary has but a pushy reporter wants the story on the suspected relationship they have. The story has twist and turns but this reader felt the portrayal of Clay was a bit self centered and some of the things they did were not traditional Amish. The author could have left out the quilt storyline and wrote another book. To this reviewer the title and story doesn't really match. The Amish driver charator could have her own book. I really like this book up until the last couple chapters because of Clay's behavior and the seemingly unfinished quilt story.
August 10, 2023
When you catch yourself smiling for no apparent reason? Yeah, that's what The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match by Jennifer Beckstrand did for me. Such a delightful read. After all, what can happen when a pro baseball pitcher literally crashes into an Amish barn in the middle of the night?
A copy was provided for my review, but all opinions are my own.
A copy was provided for my review, but all opinions are my own.
July 17, 2023
I throughly enjoyed this book. There are amazing characters in this book about Mary and Clay. They are humorous, have trust issues and very different life styles. The plot is riveting with all the twists needed to make this a book you won’t put down. I will definitely read this author again.
January 6, 2024
Listen, if there was ever any doubt that I'd be willing to read ANY sports romance, let's put that to rest right now.
Clay Markham is a famous, but recently disgraced MLB pitcher. One night after drowning the sorrows of his recent playoffs loss, he drunkenly crashes his car into Mary Yoder's barn. She takes it upon herself to nurse him back to health, and rather than letting him pay for the damage, her father decides that Clay should complete the repairs himself in order to learn his lesson. And what if they... fall in love???
I... liked this? I want to be clear that you really have to take a book like this in context. It is of course wildly unrealistic and the dialog is often painfully cheesy. However, the fact that it's set within a community that I know next to nothing about (literally, I watched For Richer or Poorer a lot as a kid -- this is my whole exposure) helped remove it a bit from reality for me, which made those criticisms matter much less than they would in an ordinary contemporary romance,
I thought this was really sweet. Both Mary and Clay were self-sacrificing fools, which can be a bit frustrating, but they were very earnest and wholesome, and I couldn't help but feel very tender toward them. Even when he gave her a goat fecal testing kit as a gift.
This is moderately religious, which I am certainly not. But it didn't feel particularly grating or preachy, and did make sense in context, so I don't believe that you also have to be religious to buy into the fact that religion is important to Amish people, and just accept it as part of the culture.
CW: drunk driving, alcoholism, sexual assault (past, off-page, not detailed), adoption, medical content (concussion, stitches, surgery, post-op infection)
**eARC provided by NetGalley and Kensington
Clay Markham is a famous, but recently disgraced MLB pitcher. One night after drowning the sorrows of his recent playoffs loss, he drunkenly crashes his car into Mary Yoder's barn. She takes it upon herself to nurse him back to health, and rather than letting him pay for the damage, her father decides that Clay should complete the repairs himself in order to learn his lesson. And what if they... fall in love???
I... liked this? I want to be clear that you really have to take a book like this in context. It is of course wildly unrealistic and the dialog is often painfully cheesy. However, the fact that it's set within a community that I know next to nothing about (literally, I watched For Richer or Poorer a lot as a kid -- this is my whole exposure) helped remove it a bit from reality for me, which made those criticisms matter much less than they would in an ordinary contemporary romance,
I thought this was really sweet. Both Mary and Clay were self-sacrificing fools, which can be a bit frustrating, but they were very earnest and wholesome, and I couldn't help but feel very tender toward them. Even when he gave her a goat fecal testing kit as a gift.
This is moderately religious, which I am certainly not. But it didn't feel particularly grating or preachy, and did make sense in context, so I don't believe that you also have to be religious to buy into the fact that religion is important to Amish people, and just accept it as part of the culture.
CW: drunk driving, alcoholism, sexual assault (past, off-page, not detailed), adoption, medical content (concussion, stitches, surgery, post-op infection)
**eARC provided by NetGalley and Kensington
December 4, 2023
Mary Yoder along with her family, is starting a quilt to honor her grandmother. When someone suggests Drunkards Path quilt, she had no ideal that she would meet and fall in love with Clay Markham. He literally came crashing into her family's Amish barn. With her father and herself home when the tragedy occurred, Clay had received some bad news that lead to drinking that resulted in a crash. Mary and her father took in Clay in and nursed him back. Not knowing who he was or the circumstances, Mary's father in his wisdom saw that Clay needed to learn a lesson in what happened. That there was more to his accident that needed character building. That is when he proposed that Clay work for their family in restoring the damages. Both Mary and Clay seemed drawn to each other in what God was teaching them.
The love story is sweet with some entertaining characters. All set in Colorado on a an Amish goat farm, the ups and downs of baseball - love is in the air for these two. A feel good read.
A special thank you to Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
The love story is sweet with some entertaining characters. All set in Colorado on a an Amish goat farm, the ups and downs of baseball - love is in the air for these two. A feel good read.
A special thank you to Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
April 17, 2024
When a drunken athlete crashes quite literally into Mary Yoder's life, she never expected to fall in love.
A quick and enjoyable read with likable characters, and an upbeat plot. Clay is running from his bad boy past, when he meets the kind and honest-hearted Mary Yoder. Clay is a charming man, with a sincerity about him despite his demons. I liked his and Mary's friendship, and how he is always brightening the days of others. Mary is a very kind and honest woman, and she brings out the best in Clay. They have a sweet chemistry, and I loved how Mary encourages Clay to turn to God for answers.
This was a fun read, with the added tension of a doomed attraction. Engaging story with familiar faces from previous books, and a sweet romance. It was the perfect lighter read to recover from a little reading slump.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A quick and enjoyable read with likable characters, and an upbeat plot. Clay is running from his bad boy past, when he meets the kind and honest-hearted Mary Yoder. Clay is a charming man, with a sincerity about him despite his demons. I liked his and Mary's friendship, and how he is always brightening the days of others. Mary is a very kind and honest woman, and she brings out the best in Clay. They have a sweet chemistry, and I loved how Mary encourages Clay to turn to God for answers.
This was a fun read, with the added tension of a doomed attraction. Engaging story with familiar faces from previous books, and a sweet romance. It was the perfect lighter read to recover from a little reading slump.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 5, 2024
Beckstrand's The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikelly Match is her newest release and the fourth book in the Amish Quiltmaker series. This was a unique Amish novel to me, as the main male character is a pro baseball player. Even though I'm not a sports fan by any stretch of the imagination, this book grabbed and kept my attention from page one to the end!
When Clay Markham crashes his car into Mary's family's barn and the barn starts on fire, Mary grabs the two fire extinguishers from the house and helps her dad put the fire out. After that, she uses her nursing skills on Clay, who has a nasty gash on his forehead, a concussion, and needs to be extricated from his totaled car. Who is this personable mystery man? And what's to be done with Mary's growing feelings for him as hesticks around to help her dad repair the damage he's caused?
This is my favorite book of Beckstrand's that I've read thus far. If you're an Amish romance fan, you won't want to miss this one!
Thanks to #NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced e-pub of this book.
All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
#TheAmishQuiltmakersUnlikelyMatch #NetGalley
When Clay Markham crashes his car into Mary's family's barn and the barn starts on fire, Mary grabs the two fire extinguishers from the house and helps her dad put the fire out. After that, she uses her nursing skills on Clay, who has a nasty gash on his forehead, a concussion, and needs to be extricated from his totaled car. Who is this personable mystery man? And what's to be done with Mary's growing feelings for him as hesticks around to help her dad repair the damage he's caused?
This is my favorite book of Beckstrand's that I've read thus far. If you're an Amish romance fan, you won't want to miss this one!
Thanks to #NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced e-pub of this book.
All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
#TheAmishQuiltmakersUnlikelyMatch #NetGalley
December 27, 2023
really enjoyed this book. I love Jennifer Beckstrand writting style. It only took me two days to read this as I was so excited to see what happened. Sometimes we need to tackle a problem head on to face it. After crashing into an Amish family barn Clay is nursed back to health by Mary. Along the way will Clay and Mary find themselves and each other?
November 13, 2023
Jennifer Beckstrand is one of my favorite authors of Amish fiction, and this is another great story by her. Mary lives a very quiet life with her father and sisters until a professional baseball player crashes his car into the family’s barn. Mary helps Clay recover from his injuries, and he repays the family by repairing the damage his accident caused to their fence and barn. Mary and Clay each have secrets from their pasts that they need to overcome to move toward the future.
This story was entertaining and enjoyable. Watching Mary and Clay working to navigate the other’s lifestyle was very interesting. And of course, the author’s characteristic humor makes the story even more of a joy to read. The plot is not what you would expect from a typical Amish story, but that makes it an even more entertaining read.
I enjoyed this story very much, and I recommend it to anyone who likes Christian fiction or Amish stories. If you haven’t read the other books in this series, be sure to check them out as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This story was entertaining and enjoyable. Watching Mary and Clay working to navigate the other’s lifestyle was very interesting. And of course, the author’s characteristic humor makes the story even more of a joy to read. The plot is not what you would expect from a typical Amish story, but that makes it an even more entertaining read.
I enjoyed this story very much, and I recommend it to anyone who likes Christian fiction or Amish stories. If you haven’t read the other books in this series, be sure to check them out as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 19, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.
Was so excited to read this one! I love Amish romance books. This one in particular caught my eye the first time I read the synopsis and knew I had to add it to my list.
The book was even better than I expected. I lived ever aspect of the story and am sure you will too. Jennifer Beckstrand has been added to my must be read list of authors.
Highly recommend.
Was so excited to read this one! I love Amish romance books. This one in particular caught my eye the first time I read the synopsis and knew I had to add it to my list.
The book was even better than I expected. I lived ever aspect of the story and am sure you will too. Jennifer Beckstrand has been added to my must be read list of authors.
Highly recommend.
November 10, 2023
Another wonderful Amish book from Jennifer Beckstrand. Mary and her sisters are Amish and live a very contained life until that is challenged when Clay crashes into their barn one night. A book exploring when an Amish girl and an English man try and combine their worlds. Thanks to Jennifer and her publisher.
September 18, 2023
*****I received this ARC free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This book was a very sweet romance. The characters were fun and a few were even funny however, I didn’t give this book 5 stars But really fell more under the romance genre rather than the Amish romance. It was a bit over the top for what would be expected in Amish romance. Still an enjoyable read.
This book was a very sweet romance. The characters were fun and a few were even funny however, I didn’t give this book 5 stars But really fell more under the romance genre rather than the Amish romance. It was a bit over the top for what would be expected in Amish romance. Still an enjoyable read.
January 10, 2024
The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match by Jennifer Beckstrand
Related to: The Amish Quiltmaker
Filled with her trademark humor and relatable characters, award-winning author Jennifer Beckstrand's blends quilting, matchmaking, and a close-knit Colorado community in her newest Amish Quiltmaker novel, as independent-minded quilter Esther Kiem sets her sights on an unusual match between the shyest Yoder sister and a professional baseball player…
Perfect for fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Wanda Brunstetter, and Linda Byler.
Though Mary Yoder longs to marry someday, she finds caring for her community’s injured and sick is much easier than courting. But when Englischer Clay Markham crashes his car nearby, Mary’s nursing shows her his hidden wounds are more painful than his injuries. Though she’s irresistibly drawn to his kind nature, can she risk letting him into her heart?
On the run from his troubled past, ex-pro baseball player Clay can’t believe the quiet sanctuary he’s found under Mary’s care. Her gentle faith and knowledge are somehow giving him hope he can change his life—and offer her the love she truly deserves. But when his secrets catch up with him, can he and Mary find the courage to face the truth, set things to rights . . . and make way for a future together?
This is Mary Yoder and Clay Markham's story.
This is Mary Yoder, sisters and father's story.
Mary and her sisters are making a quilt for their Great Grandmother.
They each choose a block pattern they wish to use.
Their friend Esther, who runs a Quilt shop brings her friend Cathy to help them with the quilt.
“Help, help! Don’t eat me! Don’t eat me!”
Mary Yoder snapped her gaze out the window, and her heart did a somersault and two backflips. An elderly Englisch woman in a bright magenta parka and lemon-yellow pants ran toward the house with all four goats and the dog chasing after her. Ach, vell, she wasn’t exactly running. She looked too old to be able to muster any speed, but she was certainly shuffling her feet very rapidly in an attempt to escape the animals. “Dat!” Mary yelled. “There’s trouble out front.”
Clay Markham is a famous, but recently disgraced MLB pitcher. One night after drowning the sorrows of his recent playoffs loss, he drunkenly crashes his car into Mary Yoder's barn. She takes it upon herself to nurse him back to health, and rather than letting him pay for the damage, her father decides that Clay should complete the repairs himself in order to learn his lesson.
I recommend this book.
The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match by Jennifer Beckstrand is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jennifer Beckstrand.
If you like to read Amish stories you will love this book.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Forgiveness, hope and love .
Related to: The Amish Quiltmaker
Filled with her trademark humor and relatable characters, award-winning author Jennifer Beckstrand's blends quilting, matchmaking, and a close-knit Colorado community in her newest Amish Quiltmaker novel, as independent-minded quilter Esther Kiem sets her sights on an unusual match between the shyest Yoder sister and a professional baseball player…
Perfect for fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Wanda Brunstetter, and Linda Byler.
Though Mary Yoder longs to marry someday, she finds caring for her community’s injured and sick is much easier than courting. But when Englischer Clay Markham crashes his car nearby, Mary’s nursing shows her his hidden wounds are more painful than his injuries. Though she’s irresistibly drawn to his kind nature, can she risk letting him into her heart?
On the run from his troubled past, ex-pro baseball player Clay can’t believe the quiet sanctuary he’s found under Mary’s care. Her gentle faith and knowledge are somehow giving him hope he can change his life—and offer her the love she truly deserves. But when his secrets catch up with him, can he and Mary find the courage to face the truth, set things to rights . . . and make way for a future together?
This is Mary Yoder and Clay Markham's story.
This is Mary Yoder, sisters and father's story.
Mary and her sisters are making a quilt for their Great Grandmother.
They each choose a block pattern they wish to use.
Their friend Esther, who runs a Quilt shop brings her friend Cathy to help them with the quilt.
“Help, help! Don’t eat me! Don’t eat me!”
Mary Yoder snapped her gaze out the window, and her heart did a somersault and two backflips. An elderly Englisch woman in a bright magenta parka and lemon-yellow pants ran toward the house with all four goats and the dog chasing after her. Ach, vell, she wasn’t exactly running. She looked too old to be able to muster any speed, but she was certainly shuffling her feet very rapidly in an attempt to escape the animals. “Dat!” Mary yelled. “There’s trouble out front.”
Clay Markham is a famous, but recently disgraced MLB pitcher. One night after drowning the sorrows of his recent playoffs loss, he drunkenly crashes his car into Mary Yoder's barn. She takes it upon herself to nurse him back to health, and rather than letting him pay for the damage, her father decides that Clay should complete the repairs himself in order to learn his lesson.
I recommend this book.
The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match by Jennifer Beckstrand is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jennifer Beckstrand.
If you like to read Amish stories you will love this book.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Forgiveness, hope and love .
January 31, 2024
It all began with a discussion about a new quilt to be made for Great-grandmother Beulah, to celebrate her one hundredth birthday. The ladies are gathering to select the blocks they will make for the new quilt.
Master Quilt Maker Cathy Larsen is invited to the gathering to offer help and advice and even though she is acerbic, she has a kind heart, pointing out no matter what pattern they choose to sew, every quilt has a little bit of magic sewn into it.
Mary Yoder, selects the Drunkards Path an intricate pattern that she believes will look wonderful when complete. At the age of 28 years, she is considered a spinster in the Amish County. Even though she would dearly love to marry and have a family, she is happy with her life on the farm. She would rather stay single than marry the wrong person.
When a car crashes through their fence hitting the barn, she and Dat rush out to rescue the driver, only to discover he is trapped in the car, with flames beginning to lap up the barn wall. He is dragged out of the car, and once the flames are extinguished, Mary realises he is not only drunk, he has concussion and a serious gash on his head that needs attention.
As Clay heals from his injuries, he finds the gentle nature of the Amish family soothes the deeply felt wounds of his past and recent present. Mary is not at all sure who he is and why he is so upset. When she accidently discovers he is a famous baseball player whose team missed section due to what is considered his bad pitching, she vows to learn all she can about baseball. And him!
As the time slowly drifts past Clay’s fame brings disruption to the small family. Eventually Mary and Clay have to make the decision to confront the past to begin to form a new future together, but can they overcome so many of the obstacles fame and being Amish place in their way.
This well written, gentle story The Amish Quiltmaker’s Unlikely Match unfolds along unexpected pathways to deliver a heart-warming story about kindness, love, courage and strength which is perfect for a lovely weekend at home indulging in a well written, charming and delightful little bit of captivating escapism!
Master Quilt Maker Cathy Larsen is invited to the gathering to offer help and advice and even though she is acerbic, she has a kind heart, pointing out no matter what pattern they choose to sew, every quilt has a little bit of magic sewn into it.
Mary Yoder, selects the Drunkards Path an intricate pattern that she believes will look wonderful when complete. At the age of 28 years, she is considered a spinster in the Amish County. Even though she would dearly love to marry and have a family, she is happy with her life on the farm. She would rather stay single than marry the wrong person.
When a car crashes through their fence hitting the barn, she and Dat rush out to rescue the driver, only to discover he is trapped in the car, with flames beginning to lap up the barn wall. He is dragged out of the car, and once the flames are extinguished, Mary realises he is not only drunk, he has concussion and a serious gash on his head that needs attention.
As Clay heals from his injuries, he finds the gentle nature of the Amish family soothes the deeply felt wounds of his past and recent present. Mary is not at all sure who he is and why he is so upset. When she accidently discovers he is a famous baseball player whose team missed section due to what is considered his bad pitching, she vows to learn all she can about baseball. And him!
As the time slowly drifts past Clay’s fame brings disruption to the small family. Eventually Mary and Clay have to make the decision to confront the past to begin to form a new future together, but can they overcome so many of the obstacles fame and being Amish place in their way.
This well written, gentle story The Amish Quiltmaker’s Unlikely Match unfolds along unexpected pathways to deliver a heart-warming story about kindness, love, courage and strength which is perfect for a lovely weekend at home indulging in a well written, charming and delightful little bit of captivating escapism!
January 4, 2024
We meet Mary Yoder she is happy living at home with her Dad and sisters. She is a quiet lady and in many ways doesn't push herself forward, she is happy in the background. Herself and her sisters are making a quilt for their Great Grandmother, they each choose a block pattern they wish to use. Their friend Esther, who runs a Quilt shop brings her friend Cathy to help them with the quilt. A quote that struck me was "there is magic in every stitch you sew into a quilt block". As each sister chooses their pattern Cathy makes a comment about what the block represents, which I found really interesting.
Mary and her Dad stay home one weekend when her sisters go to see family for a wedding. There are reasons for them both to stay home, her Dads is to avoid Mary's Aunt, Mary wishes to avoid her cousin Peter. One night they are both awakened by a crash and run out to find a car has smashed into their barn, the barn is a light and there is a man in the car. Once the fire is out they get the man out of the car, he is injured but doesn't wish to go to hospital. Mary agrees to look after him, with her Dads permission.
They find you the man's name is Clay, he offers to pay for the damage he has caused but Mary's Dad thinks it would be better for Clay to learn a lesson and do the repairs himself. Clay readily agrees. The more time Clay and Mary spend together, the more they like each other but how can things work out for them?
Both have secrets that they would rather keep hidden but can they help each other?
This was a well written book, the plotline was well thought out and had me wondering right up to the end how it would be resolved. I like the characters, Cathy added much as the Englisher, she was very forth right and that was good. The character development for both Mary and Clay was extremely well written and was believable. A really good read.
Mary and her Dad stay home one weekend when her sisters go to see family for a wedding. There are reasons for them both to stay home, her Dads is to avoid Mary's Aunt, Mary wishes to avoid her cousin Peter. One night they are both awakened by a crash and run out to find a car has smashed into their barn, the barn is a light and there is a man in the car. Once the fire is out they get the man out of the car, he is injured but doesn't wish to go to hospital. Mary agrees to look after him, with her Dads permission.
They find you the man's name is Clay, he offers to pay for the damage he has caused but Mary's Dad thinks it would be better for Clay to learn a lesson and do the repairs himself. Clay readily agrees. The more time Clay and Mary spend together, the more they like each other but how can things work out for them?
Both have secrets that they would rather keep hidden but can they help each other?
This was a well written book, the plotline was well thought out and had me wondering right up to the end how it would be resolved. I like the characters, Cathy added much as the Englisher, she was very forth right and that was good. The character development for both Mary and Clay was extremely well written and was believable. A really good read.
July 26, 2023
I wanted to start off by using this quote because I've never heard life described this way and I thought it was perfect.
This is Clay telling Mary about his dad.
I certainly know how he feels in regards to that statement.
I've wanted my dad's attention for years but he never gave it. So sad.
You would think I’d be over it by now. I’m thirty-four years old, and I still have hang-ups about my childhood. It’s sort of pathetic.”“Don’t say that. Emotions can run deep. My mammi always says that pain has a long shelf life, like a bottle of home-canned peaches.
I liked this story simply because it is different. It's from a man's pov. and his regrets. In my opinion it takes a strong man to step up and say he's sorry.
For that reason alone I admired Clay and Mary's friendship.
Here's another favorite quote that speaks truth.
Mary talking to Clay.
“You give us the gift of yourself every day. You fix things around the house, you play with the goats, you literally mend fences. When you walk in the door, the whole house lights up with happiness. "You couldn’t give us a greater gift. You don’t need to buy us presents to prove how important you are to us. We already know.”
All it takes is that special person and for that special person to finally see what's in front of them the whole time.
Forgiveness, hope and love are the themes of this story.
I loved this story so much that I finished it in one day.
Esther and Winnie are still my favorite characters. Winnie is just so adorable!
I'm hoping for a story just about Esther and Ivy someday. Ivy makes for an interesting character.
5 stars for a well written book. I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is Clay telling Mary about his dad.
I certainly know how he feels in regards to that statement.
I've wanted my dad's attention for years but he never gave it. So sad.
You would think I’d be over it by now. I’m thirty-four years old, and I still have hang-ups about my childhood. It’s sort of pathetic.”“Don’t say that. Emotions can run deep. My mammi always says that pain has a long shelf life, like a bottle of home-canned peaches.
I liked this story simply because it is different. It's from a man's pov. and his regrets. In my opinion it takes a strong man to step up and say he's sorry.
For that reason alone I admired Clay and Mary's friendship.
Here's another favorite quote that speaks truth.
Mary talking to Clay.
“You give us the gift of yourself every day. You fix things around the house, you play with the goats, you literally mend fences. When you walk in the door, the whole house lights up with happiness. "You couldn’t give us a greater gift. You don’t need to buy us presents to prove how important you are to us. We already know.”
All it takes is that special person and for that special person to finally see what's in front of them the whole time.
Forgiveness, hope and love are the themes of this story.
I loved this story so much that I finished it in one day.
Esther and Winnie are still my favorite characters. Winnie is just so adorable!
I'm hoping for a story just about Esther and Ivy someday. Ivy makes for an interesting character.
5 stars for a well written book. I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 19, 2024
Clay Markham is a famous major league baseball pitcher who lost the recent game and has incurred the ire of many of his fans. In frustration and depression, he gets drunk and crashes his car into the Yoder family's barn. Mary and her father come to Clay’s assistance and pull him out of the wreckage and bring him home. The rest of the night, Mary spends by Clay’s side, staying awake to ensure Clay does not fall into a coma due to the concussion.
When he finally wakes up in the morning, Mary is finally able to convince him to get the wound on his head stitched up and checked by a doctor. Only at the hospital when confronted by some irate fans and the television in the waiting room area, does Mary begin to realise who Clay is, that he is a famous person.
Things are further complicated when reporters start descending at the hospital in the hope of getting a scoop and an update on Clay’s most recent breakup. Once they can get away, and to lie low for the moment, he agrees to help Dat with the repairs to the fence and barn caused by his crash. Dat refuses to take a cheque for the repairs as he feels Clay needs to make restitution the by repairing the damage he has caused.
While the attraction between Mary and Clay is instantaneous, I love how it grows into something much deeper and more substantial and long lasting the more time they spend with each.
This was such a wonderful story of second chances, learning to love who you are and being open to possibilities. I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my honest review.
When he finally wakes up in the morning, Mary is finally able to convince him to get the wound on his head stitched up and checked by a doctor. Only at the hospital when confronted by some irate fans and the television in the waiting room area, does Mary begin to realise who Clay is, that he is a famous person.
Things are further complicated when reporters start descending at the hospital in the hope of getting a scoop and an update on Clay’s most recent breakup. Once they can get away, and to lie low for the moment, he agrees to help Dat with the repairs to the fence and barn caused by his crash. Dat refuses to take a cheque for the repairs as he feels Clay needs to make restitution the by repairing the damage he has caused.
While the attraction between Mary and Clay is instantaneous, I love how it grows into something much deeper and more substantial and long lasting the more time they spend with each.
This was such a wonderful story of second chances, learning to love who you are and being open to possibilities. I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my honest review.
January 14, 2024
This may be the best Amish romance I've ever read. It is different than most Amish books I've read, with some serious topics not usually part of Amish romance (sexual abuse, addiction). There were times I wasn't sure where the story was going and there were some surprises along the way.
Clay Markham is a well-known pro-baseball player when he crashes his car into the barn of an Amish family, a father and several sisters. He was injured in the wreck and the family takes him into their home. He doesn't want to go to a hospital, so a local doctor comes by and tends to his wounds.
Clay is in hiding from his own life. He is a very charming man, and thrilled to be somewhere where no one knows him. Mr. Yoder insists that Clay repair the barn himself when he is well enough, rather than writing a check. It's not long before Clay is introduced to the challenges of gathering eggs and milking goats.
Mary Yoder is a very shy young woman. At 28, she is considered to be a spinster unlikely to marry, and tends to freeze up around men. Taking care of Clay when he is unable to be a threat seems to bring her out of her shell, and his charm and sense of humor does the rest.
But he is an Englisher and she is Amish, and he has a career as a baseball player. Can they overcome these obstacles? I received an e-arc of this book from the publisher Kensington Books/Zebra, and voluntarily read and reviewed it.
Clay Markham is a well-known pro-baseball player when he crashes his car into the barn of an Amish family, a father and several sisters. He was injured in the wreck and the family takes him into their home. He doesn't want to go to a hospital, so a local doctor comes by and tends to his wounds.
Clay is in hiding from his own life. He is a very charming man, and thrilled to be somewhere where no one knows him. Mr. Yoder insists that Clay repair the barn himself when he is well enough, rather than writing a check. It's not long before Clay is introduced to the challenges of gathering eggs and milking goats.
Mary Yoder is a very shy young woman. At 28, she is considered to be a spinster unlikely to marry, and tends to freeze up around men. Taking care of Clay when he is unable to be a threat seems to bring her out of her shell, and his charm and sense of humor does the rest.
But he is an Englisher and she is Amish, and he has a career as a baseball player. Can they overcome these obstacles? I received an e-arc of this book from the publisher Kensington Books/Zebra, and voluntarily read and reviewed it.
January 11, 2024
The title was definitely an appropriate one, as the unlikely match was indeed unlikely. As Mary starts her quilt design, called the Drunkard's Path, she has no idea that something will quickly change life as she knows it. A handsome drunken driver crashes onto the family's property and into the barn. Mary helps in his rescue and as he offers to pay for all damages, Mary's father feels it more important to have him learn a lesson than to simply have him pay for the damages. So handsome Clay begins his time as barn repairman. No one of the family knowing who this man really was.
There are lots of twists and turns as a sweet romance starts between Mary and Clay. As Clay becomes accustomed to the family, he also becomes a close friend. As unexpected things start to occur, Mary finds out there is more to this man.
I really enjoyed this read and there was some humor, as is typical for this author, but there is also lots of drama. Each character grows in their own ways in the story and it is nice to see the changes that take place. I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts are my own.
There are lots of twists and turns as a sweet romance starts between Mary and Clay. As Clay becomes accustomed to the family, he also becomes a close friend. As unexpected things start to occur, Mary finds out there is more to this man.
I really enjoyed this read and there was some humor, as is typical for this author, but there is also lots of drama. Each character grows in their own ways in the story and it is nice to see the changes that take place. I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts are my own.
January 14, 2024
The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match by Jennifer Beckstrand is a sweet, emotional, and humorous story that had me laughing out loud. Mary Yoder isn’t interested in romance. At 28 years of age she’s considered to be an old maid by her Amish friends and family. Clay Markham crashes his car into her barn. Mary’s father insists that Clay fix the damage himself and not just write a check and soon Clay becomes a fixture in the Yoder household. A beautiful journey of love and healing develop between the shy Mary and the lost, depressed, and newly sober Clay. Though these two had absolutely nothing in common: she’s Amish and he’s an Englischer, she’s plain and he’s famous, she makes quilts and he’s a Major League Baseball pitcher, they found a way to connect as they both feel like they do not fit in or are worthy of love.
Ms Beckstrand adds another outstanding installment to a wonderful series; drawing me into the story making me feel as if I’m part of the story rather than a spectator. This was a beautiful story of second chances, grace, forgiveness, and love all within the beautiful backdrop of the Amish community’s faith and lifestyle, as shown through sweet moments, supportive family, friendships, and life choices. I highly recommend The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms Beckstrand adds another outstanding installment to a wonderful series; drawing me into the story making me feel as if I’m part of the story rather than a spectator. This was a beautiful story of second chances, grace, forgiveness, and love all within the beautiful backdrop of the Amish community’s faith and lifestyle, as shown through sweet moments, supportive family, friendships, and life choices. I highly recommend The Amish Quiltmaker's Unlikely Match to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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