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Amish ABCs #3
C Is for Courting
Surprises abound in the latest heartwarming inspirational tale of four English-raised siblings who return to their grandparents’ Ohio community with plans to become Amish—but discover, one by one, that even the simple life has its complications . . .
The second eldest, Beth Schrock always believed herself the most level-headed sibling. After all, in the wake of their parents’ divorce, it was she who emerged as the caretaker and steadying presence. Yet after almost two years in Ohio, Beth’s life remains the most unsettled.
Unlike her younger sister and brothers, Beth has yet to become Amish, or fall in love, much less marry.
Still, she is about to take on the biggest responsibility of them all. She is going to be a mother. A single mother. While she’s not proud of her actions, she is excited, and hopeful about the sense of purpose this change will bring.
When Beth happens to meet family acquaintance Junior Lambright, they bump heads a bit. But after she takes a part-time job at his successful candle factory, it doesn’t take long for sparks to ignite—or for Junior to decide to be the friend Beth clearly needs.
Still, neither expects a romance. Ten years older than Beth, Junior seems content to devote himself to work and his two senior Labradors. And as Beth’s due date looms, she must choose a path. She considers returning to Cleveland and her high-paying, high-stress, realtor job. She could hire a nanny. But she’d miss so much about Walden—including Junior.
And then, Junior proposes.
Beth is sure Junior’s sweet offer is only to save her reputation. . . . Unless, like her, Junior is also yearning for something more. With faith, and the courage to open their hearts, they might soon find out . . .
The second eldest, Beth Schrock always believed herself the most level-headed sibling. After all, in the wake of their parents’ divorce, it was she who emerged as the caretaker and steadying presence. Yet after almost two years in Ohio, Beth’s life remains the most unsettled.
Unlike her younger sister and brothers, Beth has yet to become Amish, or fall in love, much less marry.
Still, she is about to take on the biggest responsibility of them all. She is going to be a mother. A single mother. While she’s not proud of her actions, she is excited, and hopeful about the sense of purpose this change will bring.
When Beth happens to meet family acquaintance Junior Lambright, they bump heads a bit. But after she takes a part-time job at his successful candle factory, it doesn’t take long for sparks to ignite—or for Junior to decide to be the friend Beth clearly needs.
Still, neither expects a romance. Ten years older than Beth, Junior seems content to devote himself to work and his two senior Labradors. And as Beth’s due date looms, she must choose a path. She considers returning to Cleveland and her high-paying, high-stress, realtor job. She could hire a nanny. But she’d miss so much about Walden—including Junior.
And then, Junior proposes.
Beth is sure Junior’s sweet offer is only to save her reputation. . . . Unless, like her, Junior is also yearning for something more. With faith, and the courage to open their hearts, they might soon find out . . .
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
47 people are currently reading
2527 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
127 books2,326 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 25, 2025
C is for Courting, the third of the Amish ABCs series, is my favorite of the series. I have enjoyed watching the four English Schrock siblings explore the Amish faith of their grandparents as each has spent time with them. In the first two books, two have joined the Amish faith and are happily married. The two oldest are not there yet. Now, Beth is living with the grandparents, pregnant and unsettled, after a bad decision. She is a successful woman working in real estate so she needs something to do. She starts working free for Junior, a new Amish friend, at his candle company. Martin really cannot decide what to do but he does love Patti, a young Amish woman., who has been baptized. I really liked Beth and Junior's chemistry, his care and support in her situation. Martin and Patti are really going through a stress filled time. All make decisions in the end. Some might be surprising. Sweet story and likable, realistic characters, including sibling bickering.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
January 23, 2026
January 23, 2026
I know fully well that I don't like Shelley Shepard Gray's books, yet for some reason I keep reading them. I think that it's only to finish the series that I've started. Unfortunately for me, that meant that I had to wait seven months for this book to release, another two months to actually get my hands on it, and over a week to read it. I had no expectations at all for this book and I was still caught off-guard by how utterly terrible it was.
I'm going to start with the characters first. Despite the synopsis being about Beth and Junior, a large portion of this book was about Martin and Patti. I'll focus on the latter couple first since I think that I have more to say about them. I read the first book in this series back in September 2024 and don't remember much of this couple, but I didn't get the sense that they were right for each other (despite the text's numerous declarations that they were). I got the feeling that they were more in love with each other's looks than each other as people. They barely even felt like friends, never mind romantic interests.
Speaking of Martin and Patti, let's take a look at chapter seventeen because... yikes. Yikes. YIKES.
...
...
...
WHAT?
A few things. First, if I were Patti, I would slowly be backing away from him and then running away as soon as I was out of the room. Patti is an Amish woman and she is supposed to be modest. A modest woman would be utterly mortified to hear that weird, mildly creepy speech while she's doing something as mundane as making hot chocolate in the kitchen. Second, why did Mrs. Gray feel the need to include this in what's supposed to be clean Christian fiction? Why? Martin could have said something far more normal such as complimenting her dress or something, but he had to go with THAT instead?
Oh, and not to mention that there's hardly a reaction from Patti to this. She just says, "Oh," and moves on like it's the most normal thing in the world for her to hear. No. No, it isn't! Patti is Amish. Her strong Christian upbringing should have her mind waving a legion of red flags at Martin's speech. Part of being a Christian is saving it for marriage. Martin sounds horribly suggestive in this speech here.
To be clear, I wouldn't have as much of an issue with this if it were in a secular novel. In fact, this speech would be pretty mild for that genre. But this is Christian fiction and it's supposed to be clean. I don't feel as though that kind of speech belongs here.
There's another issue. Here's the dilemma: Martin and Patti are in love, but Martin is "English" and doesn't want to become Amish. Patti is a baptized Amish woman. In the end, they decide to both live in Cleveland and Patti will give up her faith. That wouldn't be such a huge deal except for the fact that she's baptized. When you get baptized, you make a vow to the Amish church. Leaving the church means that you broke your vow, and that gets you shunned. The community can't talk to her or really interact with her. I think that Mrs. Gray forgot about shunning because Patti leaves the community with absolutely NO consequences at ALL. Heck, she even talks to the preacher and the BISHOP about it and we don't hear a peep about shunning. She comes back later in the book to have a picnic with Martin's Amish siblings and she's perfectly welcome. Patti being a baptized woman should have been a huge point of tension in her relationship with Martin because she would be shunned if she left, but since she's not shunned, the tension that they have holds no weight. It's a meaningless stake.
With all of that out of the way, I can now talk about Beth and Junior. I'm first going to point out an inconsistency. Beth is twenty-eight and it's stated in the synopsis that Junior is ten years older, which would make him thirty-eight. But he is later described as being thirty-five, so he's actually seven years older. That makes it... slightly less weird, I guess.
Now that I think about it more, I'm skeptical of the entire premise of Beth's story plot. She got pregnant because she and a friend had a bit too much to drink and made a foolish decision. Oh, really? What happened to being smart, assertive, and driven (with an emphasis on smart) as the book itself describes her? Would this smart, assertive, and driven young woman really find herself in a position where she's had too much alcohol and is now getting it on with a friend? I don't believe that it's in-character for her, and yes, my argument still stands because I was given no explanation as to why she decided to go that route.
I also don't think that the folks of Walden really would have been so warm and welcoming to her because of her situation. The Amish don't just drive buggies and host three-hour church services (which were curiously absent from this book except for one service) and not use electricity; their beliefs are pretty different from ours. Having a baby out of wedlock is a pretty big deal because it means that you didn't save intimacy for marriage and that's a kinda hefty sin. Just my two cents.
Junior himself was just boring. I didn't find anything about him to be interesting. I also found it very strange that he was using a computer a lot. You could say that he had to use it for work, and that would be a fair explanation. But then you consider the rest of the book and how many other un-Amish things there are and my suspension of skepticism is broken.
Now that I'm done with the characters, I can talk about other things. I spotted multiple grammar errors, including...
Not to mention that the text states, "This was one of those times," and then says, "...this was another one of those times" just a little further down the page. On page 36, Patti says, "Martin, you mustn't push the buggy up and down the grocery store aisles for me." That is utterly ridiculous dialogue and no human being on the planet speaks like that, but what I actually wanted to point out was that it's called a "buggy" even though it's a shopping cart and is referred to as such later in the chapter. In page 58, Junior says that his office is warm, but on the next page, his office is described as "cool and comfortable." Also on page 58, the text says, "Oh, who was he kidding?" (It should be "whom." Grr.) On the very next page, it says, "Oh, who was she kidding?" It's repetitive.
Then there was this bombshell:
Oh, but it gets better:
I don't recall Beth ever being referred to as "Bethy" by her family members in previous books. Maybe I just don't remember, or maybe it is another editing error because this is also the series that calls the father Mark in book one but Matt in book two.
I have to suffer through D Is for Daisy, which has nothing to do with the Schrock family, and then I can finally be free of my misery. June 30 can't get here fast enough.
Original review:
March 12, 2025
I hope that there is a longer gap between this third book and the second (280 days, or nine months and seven days) than the first book and the second (210 days, or six months and 27 days) so that there can be very thorough editing. The editing on the second book was absolutely awful.
I know fully well that I don't like Shelley Shepard Gray's books, yet for some reason I keep reading them. I think that it's only to finish the series that I've started. Unfortunately for me, that meant that I had to wait seven months for this book to release, another two months to actually get my hands on it, and over a week to read it. I had no expectations at all for this book and I was still caught off-guard by how utterly terrible it was.
I'm going to start with the characters first. Despite the synopsis being about Beth and Junior, a large portion of this book was about Martin and Patti. I'll focus on the latter couple first since I think that I have more to say about them. I read the first book in this series back in September 2024 and don't remember much of this couple, but I didn't get the sense that they were right for each other (despite the text's numerous declarations that they were). I got the feeling that they were more in love with each other's looks than each other as people. They barely even felt like friends, never mind romantic interests.
Speaking of Martin and Patti, let's take a look at chapter seventeen because... yikes. Yikes. YIKES.
[Martin was] close enough to notice that the port-wine stain on her neck was more than one shade—and he thought it was sexy. (139)I kid you not, my jaw just about fell open when I read that because it came entirely out of left field. That's the kind of sentence that you'd expect from secular romance, not Christian romance. But don't worry, dear reader, because it's about to get so much worse.
[Martin] ran a finger along the line of her neck. "I was thinking about how much I would like to one day kiss every inch of that mark." He lowered his voice. "I want to taste your skin. I want to discover if the nape of your neck tastes as sweet as your lips. I want to hold you close and run my hand along your body. I want to find out if you can get chill bumps in other places besides your arms. If the scent of lavender and vanilla smells just as strong at your neck as it does on other parts of you." (140)
...
...
...
WHAT?
A few things. First, if I were Patti, I would slowly be backing away from him and then running away as soon as I was out of the room. Patti is an Amish woman and she is supposed to be modest. A modest woman would be utterly mortified to hear that weird, mildly creepy speech while she's doing something as mundane as making hot chocolate in the kitchen. Second, why did Mrs. Gray feel the need to include this in what's supposed to be clean Christian fiction? Why? Martin could have said something far more normal such as complimenting her dress or something, but he had to go with THAT instead?
Oh, and not to mention that there's hardly a reaction from Patti to this. She just says, "Oh," and moves on like it's the most normal thing in the world for her to hear. No. No, it isn't! Patti is Amish. Her strong Christian upbringing should have her mind waving a legion of red flags at Martin's speech. Part of being a Christian is saving it for marriage. Martin sounds horribly suggestive in this speech here.
To be clear, I wouldn't have as much of an issue with this if it were in a secular novel. In fact, this speech would be pretty mild for that genre. But this is Christian fiction and it's supposed to be clean. I don't feel as though that kind of speech belongs here.
There's another issue. Here's the dilemma: Martin and Patti are in love, but Martin is "English" and doesn't want to become Amish. Patti is a baptized Amish woman. In the end, they decide to both live in Cleveland and Patti will give up her faith. That wouldn't be such a huge deal except for the fact that she's baptized. When you get baptized, you make a vow to the Amish church. Leaving the church means that you broke your vow, and that gets you shunned. The community can't talk to her or really interact with her. I think that Mrs. Gray forgot about shunning because Patti leaves the community with absolutely NO consequences at ALL. Heck, she even talks to the preacher and the BISHOP about it and we don't hear a peep about shunning. She comes back later in the book to have a picnic with Martin's Amish siblings and she's perfectly welcome. Patti being a baptized woman should have been a huge point of tension in her relationship with Martin because she would be shunned if she left, but since she's not shunned, the tension that they have holds no weight. It's a meaningless stake.
With all of that out of the way, I can now talk about Beth and Junior. I'm first going to point out an inconsistency. Beth is twenty-eight and it's stated in the synopsis that Junior is ten years older, which would make him thirty-eight. But he is later described as being thirty-five, so he's actually seven years older. That makes it... slightly less weird, I guess.
Now that I think about it more, I'm skeptical of the entire premise of Beth's story plot. She got pregnant because she and a friend had a bit too much to drink and made a foolish decision. Oh, really? What happened to being smart, assertive, and driven (with an emphasis on smart) as the book itself describes her? Would this smart, assertive, and driven young woman really find herself in a position where she's had too much alcohol and is now getting it on with a friend? I don't believe that it's in-character for her, and yes, my argument still stands because I was given no explanation as to why she decided to go that route.
I also don't think that the folks of Walden really would have been so warm and welcoming to her because of her situation. The Amish don't just drive buggies and host three-hour church services (which were curiously absent from this book except for one service) and not use electricity; their beliefs are pretty different from ours. Having a baby out of wedlock is a pretty big deal because it means that you didn't save intimacy for marriage and that's a kinda hefty sin. Just my two cents.
Junior himself was just boring. I didn't find anything about him to be interesting. I also found it very strange that he was using a computer a lot. You could say that he had to use it for work, and that would be a fair explanation. But then you consider the rest of the book and how many other un-Amish things there are and my suspension of skepticism is broken.
Now that I'm done with the characters, I can talk about other things. I spotted multiple grammar errors, including...
"How are you settling in at your grandparents?"
"How are you settling in at your grandparents'?"
"If everyone brings something, I think it will be perfect. I don't want you to have to make all the snacks. Looking around at their grandmother's kitchen phone, Beth said, "I'll reach out to Treva and Kelsey now."
"If everyone brings something, I think it will be perfect. I don't want you to have to make all the snacks." Looking around at their grandmother's kitchen phone, Beth said, "I'll reach out to Treva and Kelsey now."
"Cream?" Wasn't that, like a thousand calories?"
"Cream?" Wasn't that, like, a thousand calories?
Not to mention that the text states, "This was one of those times," and then says, "...this was another one of those times" just a little further down the page. On page 36, Patti says, "Martin, you mustn't push the buggy up and down the grocery store aisles for me." That is utterly ridiculous dialogue and no human being on the planet speaks like that, but what I actually wanted to point out was that it's called a "buggy" even though it's a shopping cart and is referred to as such later in the chapter. In page 58, Junior says that his office is warm, but on the next page, his office is described as "cool and comfortable." Also on page 58, the text says, "Oh, who was he kidding?" (It should be "whom." Grr.) On the very next page, it says, "Oh, who was she kidding?" It's repetitive.
Then there was this bombshell:
After all, her mom had been raised Amish too.You can't be serious. How in the world can you start off a series by saying that these four kids have a "divorced lapsed-Amish father and English mother" (so says the synopsis of A Is for Amish) and then turn around and say that the "English mother" was raised Amish? No. I don't accept that. It's narratively wrong and it's horribly lazy from an editing perspective. How on earth did you not catch that?
Oh, but it gets better:
Her mother had been adopted as a baby by an older couple. They'd long since passed.This is book three of a four-book series. Why am I just now learning this? Oh, and speaking of the mother, she came to Walden for a visit and then just vanished into thin air in the next chapter. She met with her kids and their spouses, mostly off-page, and then never showed up in the story after that.
I don't recall Beth ever being referred to as "Bethy" by her family members in previous books. Maybe I just don't remember, or maybe it is another editing error because this is also the series that calls the father Mark in book one but Matt in book two.
I have to suffer through D Is for Daisy, which has nothing to do with the Schrock family, and then I can finally be free of my misery. June 30 can't get here fast enough.
Original review:
March 12, 2025
I hope that there is a longer gap between this third book and the second (280 days, or nine months and seven days) than the first book and the second (210 days, or six months and 27 days) so that there can be very thorough editing. The editing on the second book was absolutely awful.
July 15, 2025
I love that the author is doing an alphabet series. It's so much fun as we once again meet up with the four Englisher siblings who after moving to Ohio and their Amish grandparents farm must decide if the Amish way of life is actually for them or the English world has too much of a hold on them.
This is sibling, Beth Schrock's story. Second oldest in the group she's the rock, the one the others come to for comfort and who always seems to have the right advice. So why is she feeling so unsettled after finding herself in an unexpected situation? Beautifully told story with both Amish and English characters
We see the vulnerability in a character everyone thinks of as strong but sometimes we all need a little help. I enjoyed seeing relationships blossom and grow including a special and unexpected one. Faith filled Amish romance. Loved the characters and look forward to the next in the series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is sibling, Beth Schrock's story. Second oldest in the group she's the rock, the one the others come to for comfort and who always seems to have the right advice. So why is she feeling so unsettled after finding herself in an unexpected situation? Beautifully told story with both Amish and English characters
We see the vulnerability in a character everyone thinks of as strong but sometimes we all need a little help. I enjoyed seeing relationships blossom and grow including a special and unexpected one. Faith filled Amish romance. Loved the characters and look forward to the next in the series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
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December 3, 2025Review to follow!💜💜
February 2, 2026
Junior was grosssssss
January 25, 2026
First, don't read the description of the book; it isn't accurate, and it gives spoilers.
Second, this series is best read in order, start with book one.
Third, I enjoyed it, but I was also disappointed.
Book two left off on a major cliff-hanger with Beth, so I was super excited to finally read her story and see what happened, and where she would go from there. I was disappointed. Because, while this is her story, it is also Martin's story, which has been developing since the first book.
I didn't feel like Beth's character and story were fleshed out as well as they should have been. While she does have some character growth, it still wasn't what you would expect; it was very surface-level. And, once she gets into a relationship, it isn't fleshed out either. I think the book would have been better if we had gotten more of her story, and either less of Martin's (her brother), or the book was just longer to get it all in. Even Martin's story ended more abruptly than it should have.
I will read D is for Daisy, although I don't know if we will continue to see these same main characters, or if that will start another set of characters.
I do recommend the series, and again, they should be read in order for the best enjoyment.
Second, this series is best read in order, start with book one.
Third, I enjoyed it, but I was also disappointed.
Book two left off on a major cliff-hanger with Beth, so I was super excited to finally read her story and see what happened, and where she would go from there. I was disappointed. Because, while this is her story, it is also Martin's story, which has been developing since the first book.
I didn't feel like Beth's character and story were fleshed out as well as they should have been. While she does have some character growth, it still wasn't what you would expect; it was very surface-level. And, once she gets into a relationship, it isn't fleshed out either. I think the book would have been better if we had gotten more of her story, and either less of Martin's (her brother), or the book was just longer to get it all in. Even Martin's story ended more abruptly than it should have.
I will read D is for Daisy, although I don't know if we will continue to see these same main characters, or if that will start another set of characters.
I do recommend the series, and again, they should be read in order for the best enjoyment.
December 6, 2025
is for Courting
5 stars
This is the third book about four grown siblings who decide they want to explore Amish life. Their mother was Amish, but she left her church to marry an English man.
The four siblings, two young men and two young women visit their grandparents and tell them that they want to explore the Amish lifestyle. Since the grandparent’s home is very small, they tell them that they can only handle one grandchild at a time. This book is about two of the siblings and their decision to become Amish or not. I especially liked Beth, the best of all, and I really liked Junior who is an Amish man that she meets.
5 stars
This is the third book about four grown siblings who decide they want to explore Amish life. Their mother was Amish, but she left her church to marry an English man.
The four siblings, two young men and two young women visit their grandparents and tell them that they want to explore the Amish lifestyle. Since the grandparent’s home is very small, they tell them that they can only handle one grandchild at a time. This book is about two of the siblings and their decision to become Amish or not. I especially liked Beth, the best of all, and I really liked Junior who is an Amish man that she meets.
December 31, 2025
3.75 stars. Wholesome Amish romance. Story follows 2 siblings return to Amish roots and fall in love with Amish partners. This is my first book in the series. Thanks to Goodreads Giveaways..
December 19, 2025
I am confused. Wouldn't Patti have been shunned?
October 29, 2025
Such a delightful read. Out of the three books so far in this series this was my favorite.
Beth has found herself in the family way after a one night stand with a friend. She has come to live with her Amish grandparents to figure out where she belongs. She is pretty confident where that is and is even more so when she starts working for Junior at his candle factory. Now Beth needs to learn how to let others in her life. Can Junior show her the way?
Martin, Beth’s brother, has decided he does not wish to follow in the footsteps of his brother and sisters. There is a catch with that decision. He is in love with Patti, his grandparents neighbor, whom has already professed her faith to the Amish church. What seems a dead in may not be so if he lets Patti have a say in their future.
It has been a joy to follow the changing lives of Martin, Beth, Johnny, and Treva. I am very excited to see what the four will get into next and whose life they will be “helping” along.
Beth has found herself in the family way after a one night stand with a friend. She has come to live with her Amish grandparents to figure out where she belongs. She is pretty confident where that is and is even more so when she starts working for Junior at his candle factory. Now Beth needs to learn how to let others in her life. Can Junior show her the way?
Martin, Beth’s brother, has decided he does not wish to follow in the footsteps of his brother and sisters. There is a catch with that decision. He is in love with Patti, his grandparents neighbor, whom has already professed her faith to the Amish church. What seems a dead in may not be so if he lets Patti have a say in their future.
It has been a joy to follow the changing lives of Martin, Beth, Johnny, and Treva. I am very excited to see what the four will get into next and whose life they will be “helping” along.
November 12, 2025
C is for Courting is book 3 in the Amish ABCs series by Ms. Gray. In the past two books we met all 4 Schrock siblings and watched as they all decided to explore their Amish heritage and faith with their grandparents. Each one must determine if the Amish life is the right life for them. This time around we get Beth and her brother Martin's stories. Beth will soon be a single mom who ends up meeting Junior, a man who owns a candle making business and Martin is still seeing Patti the Amish neighbor. I really enjoyed their romances and watching how the siblings interact with one another and their families. This is a great addition to this series!
Looking forward to book 4...D is for Daisy!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 28 October 2025
Looking forward to book 4...D is for Daisy!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: 28 October 2025
November 1, 2025
I loved this romantic Amish story filled with inspiration and love and family. I loved how Beth and Martin are the last of their family to decide if they want to remain Englishers or become Amish. I loved how Beth and Junior and Martin and Patti decide what they will do with their lives. I loved how this family sticks together and helps each other. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.
January 12, 2026
This series is not Ms. Gray's best, to say the least. I don't know if the author used wrong grammar on purpose to make the characters look uneducated or if the proofreading department messed up. "We're a chip off grandpa's shoulder"? ( "a chip off the old block ") Not to mention the abundance of "I could care less" and typos.
The Amish lifestyle is portrayed in an odd way. This community seems very modern: an unwed pregnant woman is accepted in their midst without question and even encouraged by the bishop. Junior uses modern technology in his business - ok. But the grandparents seem to have a phone in their kitchen AND a phone shanty they share with Patti? Who seems to do her clients' accounting with pencil and paper...why doesn't she get to use modern equipment, like Junior? (Who prefers to calculate with an abacus, apparently, despite working on his computer all the time, lol) Patti's "suitor" is portrayed as backwards when he insists on not visiting with her without a chaperone. Patti's flippant attitude shocked me a bit tbh. "Haha, I have lots of single male clients who come over to my house, no big deal", and she turns her back on her faith without a second thought when Martin refuses to even think about a compromise. Hm.
At least now the drawn-out story of the four siblings is finally told. No need to continue the series.
The Amish lifestyle is portrayed in an odd way. This community seems very modern: an unwed pregnant woman is accepted in their midst without question and even encouraged by the bishop. Junior uses modern technology in his business - ok. But the grandparents seem to have a phone in their kitchen AND a phone shanty they share with Patti? Who seems to do her clients' accounting with pencil and paper...why doesn't she get to use modern equipment, like Junior? (Who prefers to calculate with an abacus, apparently, despite working on his computer all the time, lol) Patti's "suitor" is portrayed as backwards when he insists on not visiting with her without a chaperone. Patti's flippant attitude shocked me a bit tbh. "Haha, I have lots of single male clients who come over to my house, no big deal", and she turns her back on her faith without a second thought when Martin refuses to even think about a compromise. Hm.
At least now the drawn-out story of the four siblings is finally told. No need to continue the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
Shelley Shepard Gray is a delight, as always!
November 25, 2025
D is for Danki for writing this cute romance book.
September 27, 2025
The Schrock family continues to make life decisions about joining the Amish along with their grandparents. This story focuses mostly on Beth, one who considers herself level-minded but who is pregnant and unwed when she moves in with her mommi and dawdi. She seems to be unsettled and unfocused until she finds her mission, working in Junior Lambright’s candle factory and helping him straighten out his paperwork. The secondary story focuses on Martin and his attraction to Patti but his reluctance to be baptized as Amish. Both young people face some difficult choices and have all kinds of people, family members and others, offering them advice about the best thing they can do. I enjoyed the pace of the story as well as the dual storyline that definitely kept me engaged. When I was reading about Martin, I wanted to hurry to get back to Beth and vice versa. The dynamics between the characters was interesting and the growth shown in the characters from the previous books in the series gave me hope for Beth and Martin to resolve their issues. This is a story of choices, forgiveness, moving forward and faith, all told in a way that is relatable and charming.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
January 8, 2026
I like this series and author but this 3rd book was so rushed. I wanted to see Beths story more and then Martins.
Ughhhh Martin reallyyyyy… I am disappointed. I know it’s not feasible for all to turn out the same, but at the end the whole thing just focused on Happiness happiness and more happiness. Not faith not the vows patty took. The characters were doing some deep soul searching and then poof epilogue mushed it all together. I wish there were separate books for Beth and Martin. I also wish Martins journey was different.
Also read the preview for D ..: new characters 😭
Ughhhh Martin reallyyyyy… I am disappointed. I know it’s not feasible for all to turn out the same, but at the end the whole thing just focused on Happiness happiness and more happiness. Not faith not the vows patty took. The characters were doing some deep soul searching and then poof epilogue mushed it all together. I wish there were separate books for Beth and Martin. I also wish Martins journey was different.
Also read the preview for D ..: new characters 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2025
It's an easy 5 star for me. I have loved this series so much. The family dynamics, their hearts to find happiness and a sense of belonging. Their abilities to see past mistakes as just that and to recognise the grace of God in all aspects of their lives. My favourite part of this book was the mending of bridges between Beth and her mum. It was beautiful.
December 9, 2025
C is for Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray (2025)
Amish ABCs #3
289-page Kindle Ebook story pages 10-282
Genre: Christian Fiction > Amish Fiction, Inspirational; Romance > Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Series List for The Amish ABCs Series and The Amish of Apple Creek Series, Epigraphs, October, Walden, Ohio; Unplanned Pregnancy Trope, Siblings, Grandparents, Old Order Amish, Joining the Community Trope, English Mom - Switched to Former Amish in This Book, Former Amish Dad, Multiple POVs, Cleveland, Ohio; Lakewood, Ohio; Instalove, Matchmaking, German, June, Family Dynamics, The Story Continues, Preview of D is for Daisy by Shelley Shepard Gray - Cover, Blurb, Opening Chapter
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Books and Authors mentioned: Epistle to the Ephesians by Paul the Apostle
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½🤰🏼🕯👴🏻👵✝️
My thoughts: I love this series and I wondered what would happen after all of the siblings found a match. The preview of Book 4 was a bit confusing to me, but I'm looking forward to it. I enjoyed Elizabeth/Beth's story, but Martin not so much. I'm not sure if it's because it was drawn out over 3 books or because it was rushed in the end but that storyline stopped me from entering the 5-star zone.
Recommend to others: Yes. I love this series and I hope it goes all the way, I feared it would end in C or D.
Amish ABCs
1. A is for Amish (2024)
2. B is for Bonnet (2025)
3. C is for Courting (2025)
4. D Is for Daisy (2026)
Memorable Quotes: Today, it felt like every one of her troubles had doubled in size, but she had less of an idea about how she was ever going to solve them. What had happened to her? How could she have gone from being the most levelheaded of her family to being pregnant, unwed, and unsettled? Patti’s door opened just as Beth reached the front steps. “Beth, what in the world are you doing here?” Patti asked as she stepped out to lend a hand. She held up two mittened hands. “Obviously, I’m delivering Mommi’s bread.” But instead of looking pleased, Patti’s scowl deepened. “I canna believe you!” she scolded as she reached for her arm. “You should not be outside. It’s sleeting.”
“Come on. Please? You’re the friendliest person I’ve ever met. You always know stuff about people.” “That doesn’t mean I gather information in order to gossip with my nephew.” “I don’t want to hear gossip about her. I only want to try to get to know her better.” Her eyes narrowed as she picked up a cookie and took a bite. “I think it’s time you gave me more information, too, Junior. I’m curious about why you need to know such personal things about Beth.” “Fine. When I stopped by Patti’s, we got to talking. I ended up giving her a buggy ride home. There’s something about her that I really liked. Since she’s not Amish, I feel like she and I are on uneven ground. I just want to know a little bit more about her.” “I believe she finished high school, went to college, and does something in real estate.” “She’s a real-estate agent?” “Perhaps? Or, maybe she does something with mortgages or loan applications?” She shrugged. “All that I know for certain was that she is successful.”
Martin was also staring at her so sweetly. “I hardly know what to think about you right now.” That was the truth, too. He was acting both flirty and familiar. How could that be when it had been weeks and weeks since they’d seen each other in person? His expression turned more serious. “Patti, I know we’re in a hard place and I don’t know what the Lord intends for us to do in the future. But that said, I don’t want to pretend that we haven’t gotten close. Do you?” “Nee.” When he looked at her steadily, she realized that she was going to explain herself. She was going to need to be honest and even a little bit vulnerable. “One of my favorite parts of the day is when we talk on the phone at night.” “Me, too. I’ve blown off dinner with friends in order to make sure I was around for those phone calls.” “You didn’t have to—” “What I’m trying to say is that I enjoy hearing about your day. And how you listen to me and give me advice. I really enjoy that.” He lowered his voice. “I’ve come to believe that I need your perspective in my life. It helps center me.”
Amish ABCs #3
289-page Kindle Ebook story pages 10-282
Genre: Christian Fiction > Amish Fiction, Inspirational; Romance > Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Series List for The Amish ABCs Series and The Amish of Apple Creek Series, Epigraphs, October, Walden, Ohio; Unplanned Pregnancy Trope, Siblings, Grandparents, Old Order Amish, Joining the Community Trope, English Mom - Switched to Former Amish in This Book, Former Amish Dad, Multiple POVs, Cleveland, Ohio; Lakewood, Ohio; Instalove, Matchmaking, German, June, Family Dynamics, The Story Continues, Preview of D is for Daisy by Shelley Shepard Gray - Cover, Blurb, Opening Chapter
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Books and Authors mentioned: Epistle to the Ephesians by Paul the Apostle
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½🤰🏼🕯👴🏻👵✝️
My thoughts: I love this series and I wondered what would happen after all of the siblings found a match. The preview of Book 4 was a bit confusing to me, but I'm looking forward to it. I enjoyed Elizabeth/Beth's story, but Martin not so much. I'm not sure if it's because it was drawn out over 3 books or because it was rushed in the end but that storyline stopped me from entering the 5-star zone.
Recommend to others: Yes. I love this series and I hope it goes all the way, I feared it would end in C or D.
Amish ABCs
1. A is for Amish (2024)
2. B is for Bonnet (2025)
3. C is for Courting (2025)
4. D Is for Daisy (2026)
Memorable Quotes: Today, it felt like every one of her troubles had doubled in size, but she had less of an idea about how she was ever going to solve them. What had happened to her? How could she have gone from being the most levelheaded of her family to being pregnant, unwed, and unsettled? Patti’s door opened just as Beth reached the front steps. “Beth, what in the world are you doing here?” Patti asked as she stepped out to lend a hand. She held up two mittened hands. “Obviously, I’m delivering Mommi’s bread.” But instead of looking pleased, Patti’s scowl deepened. “I canna believe you!” she scolded as she reached for her arm. “You should not be outside. It’s sleeting.”
“Come on. Please? You’re the friendliest person I’ve ever met. You always know stuff about people.” “That doesn’t mean I gather information in order to gossip with my nephew.” “I don’t want to hear gossip about her. I only want to try to get to know her better.” Her eyes narrowed as she picked up a cookie and took a bite. “I think it’s time you gave me more information, too, Junior. I’m curious about why you need to know such personal things about Beth.” “Fine. When I stopped by Patti’s, we got to talking. I ended up giving her a buggy ride home. There’s something about her that I really liked. Since she’s not Amish, I feel like she and I are on uneven ground. I just want to know a little bit more about her.” “I believe she finished high school, went to college, and does something in real estate.” “She’s a real-estate agent?” “Perhaps? Or, maybe she does something with mortgages or loan applications?” She shrugged. “All that I know for certain was that she is successful.”
Martin was also staring at her so sweetly. “I hardly know what to think about you right now.” That was the truth, too. He was acting both flirty and familiar. How could that be when it had been weeks and weeks since they’d seen each other in person? His expression turned more serious. “Patti, I know we’re in a hard place and I don’t know what the Lord intends for us to do in the future. But that said, I don’t want to pretend that we haven’t gotten close. Do you?” “Nee.” When he looked at her steadily, she realized that she was going to explain herself. She was going to need to be honest and even a little bit vulnerable. “One of my favorite parts of the day is when we talk on the phone at night.” “Me, too. I’ve blown off dinner with friends in order to make sure I was around for those phone calls.” “You didn’t have to—” “What I’m trying to say is that I enjoy hearing about your day. And how you listen to me and give me advice. I really enjoy that.” He lowered his voice. “I’ve come to believe that I need your perspective in my life. It helps center me.”
November 2, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
C is for Courting is the third title in the Amish ABCs series, and brings us Beth’s story, which is full of decisions to be made by a woman who doesn’t regret her choice in any way, shape, or form… but longs for that special, unique relationship that she’s yet to find. She might find what she’s seeking in Junior, a slightly older candlemaker who offers her a job, friendship, and perhaps, exactly what she’s looking for. Yet, Beth still has decisions to make, and as she searches her heart, the answer might have been right in front of her all along.
Beth is the second eldest of the siblings. She’s always been considered level-headed, the caregiver of the group, and perhaps, the one with one of the most stressful careers. She often longs for a simpler life, like what her Amish grandparents have, and although she believes she can embrace the Amish life, there’s a part of her that, as a soon-to-be mother, begins to see that the choice she makes will affect not only her but her baby as well. She “could” go back to the English way of life that she’s lived with all of its stress, but also with the financial stability a child needs. She could hire a nanny, but she’d miss so much of her child’s life… and she really does feel more comfortable here in this caring Amish community, especially with Junior. She didn’t count on the quiet love of a man who is caring, non-judgmental, and sees her for who she truly is deep within. Love is the answer to her questions; she simply has to be brave enough to see her own worth as just Beth.
Martin and Patti are the second couple highlighted in C is for Courting. We met them in the first story, and now we’ll see what the ramifications of Martin’s decision will be for them both. I don’t want to give any of that away… but it is emotional, and true to themselves.
I enjoyed C is for Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray so much. We get updates on all the members of this family, including a person we’ve only known off-page up to this point. Each sibling’s story has been told with love and a balance of what their lives were and what they could be should they embrace the Amish life. I’ve loved the journey thus far, and certainly hope there will be more to come. If you enjoy a well-written, emotional romance filled with life decisions mixed with laughter, and finding that just right person for you, then you’d enjoy this one.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
C is for Courting is the third title in the Amish ABCs series, and brings us Beth’s story, which is full of decisions to be made by a woman who doesn’t regret her choice in any way, shape, or form… but longs for that special, unique relationship that she’s yet to find. She might find what she’s seeking in Junior, a slightly older candlemaker who offers her a job, friendship, and perhaps, exactly what she’s looking for. Yet, Beth still has decisions to make, and as she searches her heart, the answer might have been right in front of her all along.
Beth is the second eldest of the siblings. She’s always been considered level-headed, the caregiver of the group, and perhaps, the one with one of the most stressful careers. She often longs for a simpler life, like what her Amish grandparents have, and although she believes she can embrace the Amish life, there’s a part of her that, as a soon-to-be mother, begins to see that the choice she makes will affect not only her but her baby as well. She “could” go back to the English way of life that she’s lived with all of its stress, but also with the financial stability a child needs. She could hire a nanny, but she’d miss so much of her child’s life… and she really does feel more comfortable here in this caring Amish community, especially with Junior. She didn’t count on the quiet love of a man who is caring, non-judgmental, and sees her for who she truly is deep within. Love is the answer to her questions; she simply has to be brave enough to see her own worth as just Beth.
Martin and Patti are the second couple highlighted in C is for Courting. We met them in the first story, and now we’ll see what the ramifications of Martin’s decision will be for them both. I don’t want to give any of that away… but it is emotional, and true to themselves.
I enjoyed C is for Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray so much. We get updates on all the members of this family, including a person we’ve only known off-page up to this point. Each sibling’s story has been told with love and a balance of what their lives were and what they could be should they embrace the Amish life. I’ve loved the journey thus far, and certainly hope there will be more to come. If you enjoy a well-written, emotional romance filled with life decisions mixed with laughter, and finding that just right person for you, then you’d enjoy this one.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
November 4, 2025
Well, that was an odd Amish story.
There is something to be said about a lot of stories that are about Amish love. There is the fight between doing what is right and what is wrong. There is that struggle to obey God over man. We all struggle with that even when we aren't Amish, but there is something upheld to a higher level due to the Ordnung that Amish people follow.
In this third book for this series, the story focuses once again on Martin and Patti but also on Beth and her situation randomly mentioned at the end of the second book (that seemed completely out of character for Beth, in my opinion). Finally, their mother is also mentioned in this story, but just a slight.
The story is about four siblings who grew up under two former Amish parents who were divorced. They are adults now and are thinking about all becoming Amish and want to move back with their Amish grandparents.
Two of the four siblings have chosen which life they want, but the other two are still a little torn up, especially Martin.
What didn't make sense to me about this story is how easily accepted Beth's situation was. I don't think she would be treated with the ease she was in the community she was in. I also think the love interest of Junior she had, who is a baptized Amish man established in his ways, would not have treated her in the way he did. I do like his character. I don't think that their relationship started out in a way that would have worked out how it did. I feel there needed to be a little bit more to their story, honestly. I do like how it turned out and it was sweet, but it seemed very unrealistic for an Amish story. Also, I understand a lot of Amish businesses do use electricity, but it wasn't explained as to why Junior's business had so much of it or any of it for those who are unaware of that.
As for Martin and Patti's story, I feel like their story was long dragged out and it was about time we got a conclusion for them. I do think that Martin was very vocal in a lustful intention he had for Patti at one point in this story though. It just seemed a bit shocking and I don't think a baptized Amish woman would have reacted as she did. Also her vows of baptism are deep.
I just feel like a lot of this story made it seem like love makes a way to decide things rather than to actually do what they believe is right according to their denomination and to God. I just didn't feel good about this story. There also was not enough talk about faith in this story. Everything was on feelings instead of on God, to be honest. It was a disappointing book.
There is something to be said about a lot of stories that are about Amish love. There is the fight between doing what is right and what is wrong. There is that struggle to obey God over man. We all struggle with that even when we aren't Amish, but there is something upheld to a higher level due to the Ordnung that Amish people follow.
In this third book for this series, the story focuses once again on Martin and Patti but also on Beth and her situation randomly mentioned at the end of the second book (that seemed completely out of character for Beth, in my opinion). Finally, their mother is also mentioned in this story, but just a slight.
The story is about four siblings who grew up under two former Amish parents who were divorced. They are adults now and are thinking about all becoming Amish and want to move back with their Amish grandparents.
Two of the four siblings have chosen which life they want, but the other two are still a little torn up, especially Martin.
What didn't make sense to me about this story is how easily accepted Beth's situation was. I don't think she would be treated with the ease she was in the community she was in. I also think the love interest of Junior she had, who is a baptized Amish man established in his ways, would not have treated her in the way he did. I do like his character. I don't think that their relationship started out in a way that would have worked out how it did. I feel there needed to be a little bit more to their story, honestly. I do like how it turned out and it was sweet, but it seemed very unrealistic for an Amish story. Also, I understand a lot of Amish businesses do use electricity, but it wasn't explained as to why Junior's business had so much of it or any of it for those who are unaware of that.
As for Martin and Patti's story, I feel like their story was long dragged out and it was about time we got a conclusion for them. I do think that Martin was very vocal in a lustful intention he had for Patti at one point in this story though. It just seemed a bit shocking and I don't think a baptized Amish woman would have reacted as she did. Also her vows of baptism are deep.
I just feel like a lot of this story made it seem like love makes a way to decide things rather than to actually do what they believe is right according to their denomination and to God. I just didn't feel good about this story. There also was not enough talk about faith in this story. Everything was on feelings instead of on God, to be honest. It was a disappointing book.
September 6, 2025
In the third installment of the charming Amish ABCs series, Shelley Shepard Gray delivers a heartfelt, quietly powerful romance that celebrates faith, second chances, and the courage to open your heart.
C Is for Courting revisits the Schrock family—four English-raised siblings who have recently returned to their grandparents' peaceful Ohio Amish community only to discover that the simple life is far from uncomplicated. This time, the spotlight falls on Beth Schrock, the "ever-level-headed" second-eldest sibling, who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant and thrust into a new, daunting chapter of her life.
Beth, who once thrived in high-stress real estate in Cleveland, now navigates the emotional and spiritual upheaval of impending single motherhood. Her sanctuary becomes the modest candle factory owned by Junior Lambright—a man ten years her senior, a loyal caretaker to his two elderly Labradors, and quietly steady in his faith. Their connection, initially rooted in mutual understanding and kindness, gradually blossoms into something deeper, though Beth worries Junior’s proposal is less about love and more about preserving her reputation.
Gray weaves a narrative that balances gentle romance with complex emotional realities. Beth’s struggle between returning to her old life—with its comforts and financial security—and embracing the tender, rooted life in Walden offers a realistic portrayal of faith-based transformation. The setting, infused with community and quiet strength, amplifies the emotional stakes without drowning the story in melodrama.
Pros: Relatable, grounded heroine; authentic emotional tension; supportive small-town Amish atmosphere; a satisfying, hope-filled resolution.
Cons: A few minor narrative threads feel lightly sketched—particularly in the subplot involving Beth's brother Martin’s lingering doubts about Amish life.
Overall, C Is for Courting is a quietly stirring, faith-centred romance that will deeply resonate with fans of Shelley Shepard Gray and the Amish genre. It earns a solid 4-star rating—heartwarming, just-right pacing, with characters who stay with you long after the final page.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
C Is for Courting revisits the Schrock family—four English-raised siblings who have recently returned to their grandparents' peaceful Ohio Amish community only to discover that the simple life is far from uncomplicated. This time, the spotlight falls on Beth Schrock, the "ever-level-headed" second-eldest sibling, who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant and thrust into a new, daunting chapter of her life.
Beth, who once thrived in high-stress real estate in Cleveland, now navigates the emotional and spiritual upheaval of impending single motherhood. Her sanctuary becomes the modest candle factory owned by Junior Lambright—a man ten years her senior, a loyal caretaker to his two elderly Labradors, and quietly steady in his faith. Their connection, initially rooted in mutual understanding and kindness, gradually blossoms into something deeper, though Beth worries Junior’s proposal is less about love and more about preserving her reputation.
Gray weaves a narrative that balances gentle romance with complex emotional realities. Beth’s struggle between returning to her old life—with its comforts and financial security—and embracing the tender, rooted life in Walden offers a realistic portrayal of faith-based transformation. The setting, infused with community and quiet strength, amplifies the emotional stakes without drowning the story in melodrama.
Pros: Relatable, grounded heroine; authentic emotional tension; supportive small-town Amish atmosphere; a satisfying, hope-filled resolution.
Cons: A few minor narrative threads feel lightly sketched—particularly in the subplot involving Beth's brother Martin’s lingering doubts about Amish life.
Overall, C Is for Courting is a quietly stirring, faith-centred romance that will deeply resonate with fans of Shelley Shepard Gray and the Amish genre. It earns a solid 4-star rating—heartwarming, just-right pacing, with characters who stay with you long after the final page.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 23, 2025
C Is for Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray
(Amish ABCs)
Surprises abound in the latest heartwarming inspirational tale of four English-raised siblings who return to their grandparents’ Ohio community with plans to become Amish—but discover, one by one, that even the simple life has its complications . . .
The second eldest, Beth Schrock always believed herself the most level-headed sibling. After all, in the wake of their parents’ divorce, it was she who emerged as the caretaker and steadying presence. Yet after almost two years in Ohio, Beth’s life remains the most unsettled.
Unlike her younger sister and brothers, Beth has yet to become Amish, or fall in love, much less marry.
Still, she is about to take on the biggest responsibility of them all. She is going to be a mother. A single mother. While she’s not proud of her actions, she is excited, and hopeful about a new sense of purpose.
When Beth takes part-time work at Junior Lambright’s candle factory, it doesn’t take long for unexpected sparks to ignite—or for Junior to become the friend Beth clearly needs. But neither expects a romance. Ten years older than Beth, Junior seems content to devote himself to work and his two senior Labradors. And as Beth’s due date looms, she must decide whether to return to Cleveland and her high- paying,
high-stress, realtor job. She could hire a nanny. But she’d miss so much about Walden—including Junior. And then, Junior proposes.
Beth Schrock is living with her Amish grandparents.
Beth is sure Junior’s sweet offer is only to save her reputation. Unless, like her, Junior is also yearning for something more. With faith, and the courage to open their hearts, they might soon find out .
Junior Lambright has a candle factory.
Martin, Beth, Jonny and Kelsey the Schrock family.
Read this book to find out what Beth and Martin decision is.
I recommend this book.
C is For Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray is a 5-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Shelley Shepard Gray.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
(Amish ABCs)
Surprises abound in the latest heartwarming inspirational tale of four English-raised siblings who return to their grandparents’ Ohio community with plans to become Amish—but discover, one by one, that even the simple life has its complications . . .
The second eldest, Beth Schrock always believed herself the most level-headed sibling. After all, in the wake of their parents’ divorce, it was she who emerged as the caretaker and steadying presence. Yet after almost two years in Ohio, Beth’s life remains the most unsettled.
Unlike her younger sister and brothers, Beth has yet to become Amish, or fall in love, much less marry.
Still, she is about to take on the biggest responsibility of them all. She is going to be a mother. A single mother. While she’s not proud of her actions, she is excited, and hopeful about a new sense of purpose.
When Beth takes part-time work at Junior Lambright’s candle factory, it doesn’t take long for unexpected sparks to ignite—or for Junior to become the friend Beth clearly needs. But neither expects a romance. Ten years older than Beth, Junior seems content to devote himself to work and his two senior Labradors. And as Beth’s due date looms, she must decide whether to return to Cleveland and her high- paying,
high-stress, realtor job. She could hire a nanny. But she’d miss so much about Walden—including Junior. And then, Junior proposes.
Beth Schrock is living with her Amish grandparents.
Beth is sure Junior’s sweet offer is only to save her reputation. Unless, like her, Junior is also yearning for something more. With faith, and the courage to open their hearts, they might soon find out .
Junior Lambright has a candle factory.
Martin, Beth, Jonny and Kelsey the Schrock family.
Read this book to find out what Beth and Martin decision is.
I recommend this book.
C is For Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray is a 5-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Shelley Shepard Gray.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
October 28, 2025
I won a free copy of this in a Goodreads giveaway. Here is my honest review:
C is for Courting is a cute, short, quick read romance that alternates between two couples: One involving a pregnant woman named Beth, who is on her way to converting to the Amish lifestyle like two of her siblings before her; and the other with Martin, another of Beth's siblings, who isn't yet Amish and can't bring himself to leave his regular life behind, even after having fallen for a nice Amish woman.
This book was my first experience with this author and series.
I'm also not too familiar with the Amish lifestyle beyond the general facts taught in school, so I can't speak much on that. If there were any inaccuracies regarding the lifestyle, I wouldn't have noticed. Since this is my first book of this type, I'm also judging it based on how it works as a standalone, and not how it fits into an ongoing series.
I liked the two couples. They seemed well-matched and healthy in that they communicated well, and there was no huge imbalance of power. Both of them suffered from a lack of pagetime, though, due to having to share the space with another. This book is short enough, as is, without the constant POV couple switches. That's probably why not much happens, plotwise, in this book. There just wasn't time for it. Maybe this would be fixed by reading the other books.
Regardless, I had fun with this. It was nice to read something sweet and innocent after some of the other crap I've been sampling lately. Sometimes, it's nice to read a romance where the men are still capable of acting like gentlemen and there's not a sex scene every few pages.
C is for Courting is a cute, short, quick read romance that alternates between two couples: One involving a pregnant woman named Beth, who is on her way to converting to the Amish lifestyle like two of her siblings before her; and the other with Martin, another of Beth's siblings, who isn't yet Amish and can't bring himself to leave his regular life behind, even after having fallen for a nice Amish woman.
This book was my first experience with this author and series.
I'm also not too familiar with the Amish lifestyle beyond the general facts taught in school, so I can't speak much on that. If there were any inaccuracies regarding the lifestyle, I wouldn't have noticed. Since this is my first book of this type, I'm also judging it based on how it works as a standalone, and not how it fits into an ongoing series.
I liked the two couples. They seemed well-matched and healthy in that they communicated well, and there was no huge imbalance of power. Both of them suffered from a lack of pagetime, though, due to having to share the space with another. This book is short enough, as is, without the constant POV couple switches. That's probably why not much happens, plotwise, in this book. There just wasn't time for it. Maybe this would be fixed by reading the other books.
Regardless, I had fun with this. It was nice to read something sweet and innocent after some of the other crap I've been sampling lately. Sometimes, it's nice to read a romance where the men are still capable of acting like gentlemen and there's not a sex scene every few pages.
November 10, 2025
Thank you to Shelley Shepard Gray, Kensington Publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me early access to an eARC to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Beth Schrock and her three siblings were raised English, but a couple of years ago decided they wanted to attempt to join their Amish grandparents and covert to Amish ways. The two youngest have met and married their mates and have converted. Martin, the oldest boy has fallen in love with an Amish girl, but has decided the Amish way of life is not for him. When Beth comes to try her hand at the Amish way of life, she is pregnant and at loose ends. She volunteers helping a candle making company and she and the owner have sparks. There are so many issues that must be worked out for Beth and Junior and Martin and Patty.
As a whole, I enjoyed this series but this particular book felt like it was missing things. I needed more. Maybe Martin and Beth should have had two separate stories. There were many things that felt very abrupt and unfinished. I love the idea that one couple did the unconventional and one had unconventional situation for an Amish person to deal with.
If you enjoy sweet Amish fiction you might enjoy this book, but if you are looking for a meaty story this might not be the story for you.
#CisCourting #NetGalley
Beth Schrock and her three siblings were raised English, but a couple of years ago decided they wanted to attempt to join their Amish grandparents and covert to Amish ways. The two youngest have met and married their mates and have converted. Martin, the oldest boy has fallen in love with an Amish girl, but has decided the Amish way of life is not for him. When Beth comes to try her hand at the Amish way of life, she is pregnant and at loose ends. She volunteers helping a candle making company and she and the owner have sparks. There are so many issues that must be worked out for Beth and Junior and Martin and Patty.
As a whole, I enjoyed this series but this particular book felt like it was missing things. I needed more. Maybe Martin and Beth should have had two separate stories. There were many things that felt very abrupt and unfinished. I love the idea that one couple did the unconventional and one had unconventional situation for an Amish person to deal with.
If you enjoy sweet Amish fiction you might enjoy this book, but if you are looking for a meaty story this might not be the story for you.
#CisCourting #NetGalley
November 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It is the third book in this author's Amish ABCs series and continued to share the story of the Schrock siblings as the four decide whether a leaving the English life and becoming Amish is the correct future for themselves. This book shares Beth and Martin's stories as they make their decisions for where they feel they belong. Beth is soon to be a single mother and is looking for her place and a focal point in her life. She takes a job working in the office of Junior Lambright's candle shop and finds herself developing a relationship with her new boss. Martin continues his relationship with his Amish grandparents' neighbor, Patti Coblentz, but is struggling with his personal decisions for his life and how they will affect Patti. I enjoyed the dynamics between the characters and the interactions the siblings have between themselves and with their grandparents. This is a story filled with emotional life decisions, family, and hope for what is to come swirled with romance and faith. The book does a fairly good job of giving enough background of the characters and storyline that it can be read alone, but I encourage readers to enjoy the first two books in the series as well. Overall, an amiable and relatable read. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
I was gifted a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I was gifted a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 29, 2025
C is for Courting by Shelley Shepard Gray, which is the third book in the Amish ABCs series. It works as a standalone, but reading the series in order is recommended (it will allow you to get to know the characters and their backstories). We get to catch up with the four Schrock siblings. It's often difficult to change your view of a sibling you've known all your life as we see in this story. C is for Courting centers around Beth with the secondary storyline focusing on Martin. While their siblings are happily married and enjoying their new lives, Beth and Martin are still struggling to determine where they belong (Englisch or Amish). Beth meets Junior Lambright, an Amishman, who owns a candle factory. Martin cares for his grandparents’ neighbor, Patti, but he is reluctant to become baptized in the Amish faith. Friends and family give advice, solicited or not. I enjoyed the interactions between Beth and Junior. The epilogue effectively concludes the Schrock siblings' story. Some of the themes in C is for Courting are choices, forgiveness, self-discovery, family, love, and faith. C is for Courting is a charming Amish anecdote with an unexpected pregnancy, satisfied siblings, perceptive grandparents, romance worries, a peculiar receptionist, enchanting candles, and God’s guidance.
November 5, 2025
This sweet Amish story mostly follows Beth and Martin’s stories. Beth and Martin are from the Schrock siblings of 4 who travel to Walden to live with their grandparents and become Amish. The other sibling stories are from the 2 previous books in this series.
Beth has a hard journey ahead of her with being a single mom and I liked reading her determination to work and to help people around her. Despite being treated poorly by others, she continues to work hard in Junior’s office and stay optimistic. Martin and Pattie are trying to figure out how they can have a relationship and stay true to their beliefs. All of the siblings struggle with how they want to live their life (Amish or Plain?) and their relationships with each other.
It’s hard to believe 5 years have passed since the beginning of A is for Amish when this series started! I have loved getting to know Beth, Kelsey, Jonny and Martin as they individually and together as a family embark on their journeys about life, love, faith and contentment-whether they choose to be plain or Amish.
I highly recommend reading this feel good, Amish family series! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
Beth has a hard journey ahead of her with being a single mom and I liked reading her determination to work and to help people around her. Despite being treated poorly by others, she continues to work hard in Junior’s office and stay optimistic. Martin and Pattie are trying to figure out how they can have a relationship and stay true to their beliefs. All of the siblings struggle with how they want to live their life (Amish or Plain?) and their relationships with each other.
It’s hard to believe 5 years have passed since the beginning of A is for Amish when this series started! I have loved getting to know Beth, Kelsey, Jonny and Martin as they individually and together as a family embark on their journeys about life, love, faith and contentment-whether they choose to be plain or Amish.
I highly recommend reading this feel good, Amish family series! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
August 24, 2025
Fantastic
I greatly enjoyed this beautiful story of love, faith, family bonds, trust, hope, and what happens when we seek the Lord's will.
In C is for Courting, the story of the Schrock siblings continues with its main focus on Beth, who is facing many choices that she never expected. Junior Lambright plays a part in her choices and adds a sweet and entertaining touch to their story. Their journey had me smiling and rooting for them, and it did not disappoint.
I was also happy to see Martin's story woven along with Beth and Junior's story. He, too, is facing some major issues that affect him and a struggle he's been dealing with for some time, which includes love and an important life choice. Needless to say, I was also rooting for him and was not disappointed with the outcome.
The story is a fantastic conclusion to this series. And while the book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend the entire series. This emotional and heartwarming story of family, love, and faith should definitely not be missed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and voluntary.
I greatly enjoyed this beautiful story of love, faith, family bonds, trust, hope, and what happens when we seek the Lord's will.
In C is for Courting, the story of the Schrock siblings continues with its main focus on Beth, who is facing many choices that she never expected. Junior Lambright plays a part in her choices and adds a sweet and entertaining touch to their story. Their journey had me smiling and rooting for them, and it did not disappoint.
I was also happy to see Martin's story woven along with Beth and Junior's story. He, too, is facing some major issues that affect him and a struggle he's been dealing with for some time, which includes love and an important life choice. Needless to say, I was also rooting for him and was not disappointed with the outcome.
The story is a fantastic conclusion to this series. And while the book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend the entire series. This emotional and heartwarming story of family, love, and faith should definitely not be missed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and voluntary.
October 31, 2025
C is for Courting is Beth’s story. We often can’t outrun our past mistakes, as she is finding out. But God will never leave us or stop loving us because of our mistakes. Beth is dealing with so much. Single motherhood. The decision to become Amish…or not. A part time job that isn’t really a job. It was intriguing to watch her grow.
Junior is a single Amish man, which is frowned upon in the community. But he has two senior Labradors and a growing candle company. And a brother he’s estranged from. Like Beth, Junior is struggling. He makes a good hero. He’s kind and wants to help people. I really liked him.
I will admit I was confused by Martin, another Shrock sibling. C is for Courting is partly his story as well. Martin is not Amish. Doesn’t want to become Amish but is dating a baptized Amish woman, Patti. I don’t want to give anything away, but let’s see if you are confused as well.
I really enjoyed C is for Courting, and recommend it if you like Amish fiction. Do read books 1 and 2 as they are following the same family and are equally as good.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
Junior is a single Amish man, which is frowned upon in the community. But he has two senior Labradors and a growing candle company. And a brother he’s estranged from. Like Beth, Junior is struggling. He makes a good hero. He’s kind and wants to help people. I really liked him.
I will admit I was confused by Martin, another Shrock sibling. C is for Courting is partly his story as well. Martin is not Amish. Doesn’t want to become Amish but is dating a baptized Amish woman, Patti. I don’t want to give anything away, but let’s see if you are confused as well.
I really enjoyed C is for Courting, and recommend it if you like Amish fiction. Do read books 1 and 2 as they are following the same family and are equally as good.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
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