When They Met Again

Letters from Lancaster County #2

by Leslie Gould

It's love at first sight for Adam Slaybaugh, yet while Joanna Grebel finds him attractive and is intrigued when he declares his interest, she's less certain of the potential for a romantic future together. Instead, she proposes they be "just friends," but Adam's not willing to settle for anything less than a romantic relationship. In response, he leaves Lancaster County for Florida, and soon after, Joanna begins courting Jacob Byer--someone she deems a much more suitable match.

When Adam returns to Lancaster County years later to pursue a career in his grandparents' successful home renovation business, he finds Joanna suffering from a broken heart. Misunderstandings and matchmaking schemes begin a tender journey of healing and romance--but is Adam's love enough to finally win Joanna over?

Bestselling Amish romance author Leslie Gould pens a gently humorous and rich romance threaded with heart-deep characters and the traditions of simple Amish life.

Genres: Romance, Amish Fiction, Amish, Christian Fiction

368 pages, Paperback

Published March 17, 2026

About the author

Leslie Gould is the #1 bestselling and Christy Award-winning author of fifty novels. She received her MFA in 2009 and has taught writing on the university level. Leslie enjoys traveling, hiking, and history. She and her husband, Peter, are the parents of four adult children and two grandbabies. Visit her at http://www.lesliegould.com/.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not going to say too much about WHEN THEY MET AGAIN as to not give anything away, but truly, you will love this story if you have the chance to read it! I love how Leslie Gould tells a story and it feels like she is writing directly to me. She kept me engaged from the very first page! Adam Slaybaugh is in love with Joanna the moment he sees her. He never stops loving her, even when she starts dating another man. Adam decides to move to Florida. Eventually he comes back to help his grandparents with their home improvement business. Joanna was hurt by Jacob, who broke up with her twice. It’s very hard for her to trust a man again. She does trust God and asks him for his guidance in making sense of everything that is happening in her life.

WHEN THEY MET AGAIN is the second book in the Letters from Lancaster County. It is not your usual Amish story and it held my interest from the very first page until the last. Author Leslie Gould explores second chance romance, and the importance of circle letters. WHEN THEY MET AGAIN is filled with twists and turns and had me totally invested in all of the characters and their troubles. All of the characters have flaws and I really like how Leslie Gould shows the reader that The Amish, while living plain lives, still have problems and drama.

WHEN THEY MET AGAIN is filled with love, family, forgiveness, history, hope, and faith. Joanna and Adam both have some choices and hard decisions to make and they will break the reader’s hearts. Will Joanna stay in her grandparents home or will she go back? You have to give WHEN THEY MET AGAIN a try to find out! My emotions were all over the place while reading about the tough choices Joanna and Adam had to make and I found myself cheering both of them on, hoping they would find their happy places. Leslie Gould truly knows how to pull her readers in and never lets them go! I can not wait to continue with this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Hannah Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars personally.

I really enjoyed the first book in this series, but I struggled with getting invested in this one. The prose felt a bit clunky and repetitive for the first half, and I had a hard time connecting with the plot. Once we got past the halfway mark, the moment built and carried through to the end, though, and I did enjoy the messages the author chose to include.

I really liked Joanna as a character. She was very logical and grounded for the most part--she never thought about jumping the fence, but was rather a person of integrity, fully committed to her way of life, and so kind and hardworking. She did a feel a bit petty, especially toward the end, toward Adam, which got annoying because I just wanted our main couple TOGETHER finally.

Adam was a sweetheart. A bit too quick to move away, and at times pushy, but a good man overall. He had such a servant's heart, and his and Joanna's friendship was so sweet to watch blossom. Their first kiss felt kind of out of left field to me, but life can be that way sometimes, I suppose.

And then there were the grandmothers. I liked that they still had issues and struggles themselves and weren't just perfect, sweet, godly (and boring) role models. They made for some interesting additions to the plot with their own drama.

Also, I loved how bookish Adam and Joanna were, and how that played a role in their relationship (passing books like Little Women, Persuasion, and more!). It was especially cute since it's so uncommon in Amish fiction (they aren't really supposed to read ficiton).

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

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I enjoyed reading this book! I liked the setting and the characters but the love story was a bit frustrating.

Joanna is a wonderful character! She's a hard worker, kind and loyal to those she cares about. Unfortunately she thinks that she is unlovable due to unkind people in her life. Adam is very compassionate. He's also pretty clueless when it comes to wooing women. His awkward attempts lead to a lot of frustration. I do love that he reads classics like Little Women and Persuasion! Mammi Lu and Mammi Becky are my favorites! They are everything that grandmothers should be! They are gentle, kind and always available.

One of my favorite things about reading Amish fiction is the amazing concept of community. The community is available to celebrate the good times and to help in the bad times. When someone is sick, the men and women help out with chores and provide food. The barn raising is a good example. I'd love to see one in person because I've heard that it's extraordinary!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Baker Publishing Group via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Elizabeth Eckmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a beautifully written story about friendship and romance. I have read stories by Leslie Gould before. She is a talented writer. Her work is very engaging and keeps you wanting to know more!

Joanna Grabble is a young woman who comes to live with her grandparents. During this time so many changes happen with her family and herself. She first meets Adam and quickly realizes there is someone else for her. Things don't go the way she hoped and she begins to change for the better.

Adam Slaybaugh is in love with Joanna the moment he sees her. He holds on to his love for her when she starts dating another man and he decides to leave for Florida. Eventually he comes back to help his grandparents with their business.

This story was good and easy to get lost in. I loved the town of characters. I was frustrated with Joanna who never saw what was actually good for her. She was always looking at the worst of every situation. I was also frustrated by some of the characters that worked against the happiness of the story. I just felt frustrated through most of the story. All in all it was good and so was the ending.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House Publishing through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Adam Slaybaugh meets Joanna Grebel, it’s love at first sight. For him, anyway. Unwilling to settle for Joanna’s offer of friendship, he immediately moves from Lancaster County to Pinecraft. Which leaves Joanna to be courted by another man (who, let the record show, I disliked from the beginning). Okay, yes, Adam’s actions are impetuous and, frankly, immature, but there’s still something genuine about him that I could sense right away, a big heart that I knew could love Joanna well if they could both get past his decisions. And Joanna is a wonderful heroine – winsome, kind, smart – it’s easy to see why two guys want to court her. I especially enjoyed her and Adam’s shared love for reading and the nods to classic literature that author Leslie Gould weaves throughout When They Met Again. Their brief reunion during Joanna’s vacation to Pinecraft gave me hope that Adam would find a way out of the friend zone and solidified my belief that he was not only a great guy but the right guy for Joanna. When he returns to Lancaster County and they become coworkers at his grandparents’ business, I eagerly watched them develop a sweet friendship first that naturally allows Joanna to sort out her feelings between Jacob and Adam. With perhaps a little help from Jane Austen…

The highlight of this book for me, though, was the circle of friendships between Adam’s grandmother, Joanna’s grandmothers, and the local bishop’s wife. These ladies have been best friends since they were young, and finding out what they were like during their Rumspringa was really fun. I particularly loved Becky (Adam’s grandmother) and Lu (the grandmother Joanna lives with), though the other two grew dear to me too as the story went on. Lu is the quintessential Amish mammi, the kind you just want to hug and hang out with. Becky is more unique than how we typically see elder Amish women portrayed in fiction, and I loved her business savvy and the way she’s fully committed to her faith but also hasn’t quite done away with her funloving Rumspringa side either. Their friendship is so heartwarming, but I also appreciated that they aren’t meant to be perfect characters. They have fears, they have struggles, they have realistic flaws. And they’re exactly right to support Adam and Joanna on their respective journeys as well. (Unlike Joanna’s father Nehemiah who… oof… is a handful and then some.)

Bottom Line: When They Met Again by Leslie Gould is heartfelt and warm, and the literary nods sprinkled throughout delighted my bookish heart. Adam and Joanna’s journey to happily-ever-after kept me invested from its awkward beginnings to its sweet second chance. (And three cheers for a hero who isn’t afraid to admit he’s a fan of Jane Austen or Little Women!) But I have to say that I loved the friendships among the grandmothers the most, especially the humor, wisdom, and emotional depth they bring to this story and into Adam and Joanna’s life. I also appreciated the exploration of choosing to love people when it’s not easy, whether it’s a difficult family relationship, a gossipy friend, or a young woman who’s got you firmly in the friend zone. All of these elements together make When They Met Again a lovely and gently-written read, whether you’re a fan of Amish fiction or not.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Anne Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adam Slaybaugh is instantly attracted to Joanna Grebel when they meet on the way to a wedding. But Joanna is wary of Adam's interest, and fears he is like her unpredictable and impulsive father. She doesn't believe in love at first sight, and as a reader of classic romances, she knows she wants her true love to be based on friendship first. When she meets Jacob though, her attraction to him is instant. But their relationship is turbulent and rocky.
Then Adam returns to her home town...

I really like Leslie Gould's writing. She creates a lovely environment for her characters. I loved the decades-long friendship circle of Becky, Lu, Elaine and Rhoda. I REALLY love the beautiful relationship between Becky and her husband Ike - not to mention the story of how they met! Joanna's connection with her grandmother Lu is very sweet and not at all in a saccharine way.

I enjoyed reading about the developing friendship circle which Joanna is part of.
I almost cheered for Rhoda when she stood up to her overbearing son's demands at last, and when she realised how much her granddaughter Joanna means to her. It was good too to see the character development of Joanna's distant Mamm.

I could've shaken Joanna a few times though. For someone so kind and perceptive, her reaction to the discovery about her letter-writer seems overly strong. As does her determination to continue to be 'miffed' about it. I honestly couldn't understand that AT ALL.

A good read, overall. I've docked it a star because the ending felt abrupt. I liked the last letter, and would have liked to have a bit more of a rounded conclusion. I felt a bit short-changed with just the final scene on the stairs.

I read a pre-publication version supplied by the publisher. No review was required. All comments and opinions above are entirely my own.

[Edward Arrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the story opens, Joanna and her grandparents were riding with friends of her grandparents and their grandson Adam to a wedding in northwest Pennsylvania about five hours from their home in Lancaster County. Adam was immediately smitten with Joanna and asked if he could court her. Joanna was more flabbergasted by the question than anything else because she knew so very little about him. He had only moved in with his grandparents a week or two earlier, having grown up in a different area. She turned him down and said she would like to become friends. His answer caught her even more off guard when he told her that men and women could not be just friends. I cannot recall ever hearing anyone say such a ridiculous thing and still cannot figure out where he got such a notion. Sadly, another young man came along who was fine with just being friends, and Joanna started going out with him soon after. I think Adam grew to regret he had ever made such a statement. Throughout the story, I believe Joanna and Adam both learned so much about what true friendship really was. Watching their grandparents gave them some inspiring examples of the way friends interact and support each other. I enjoyed the back story of how the two sets of grandparents had met and fallen in love. The story has multiple layers of lessons about friendship, sticking together, and several others. Not only are there lessons of things to nurture friendships, but the author also wove in some lessons of things that should not be done. One that we all have heard from childhood, but that is so easy to slip into, is the bad habit of gossip. Friendship was a major theme throughout the story. It was a joy to see friendships develop, others that were restored, and some were strengthened. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own. #BHPFiction

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is easy to see why Leslie Gould is an award-winning author. She writes from the heart and gives readers meaningful stories to enjoy. When They Met Again is a perfect example of this.

This book tells the story of the many friendships a person can have and how those friendships are important. I liked the dynamic between Joanna and Mammi Lu, and also Mammi Becky. I also enjoyed the friendship of the four older ladies and how they helped each other out. I know this is the Amish way, and I think the author does a good job of relaying that to the reader. I also enjoyed the budding friendship between Joanna and Adam. There were places this story took turns that I wasn't expecting, but I like how they all tied together in the end.

I absolutely love Leslie Gould's writing style and the stories she tells. She writes in a way that makes it effortless to read her books. She tells stories that have depth to them. Writing about the Amish has to have its challenges since their lifestyle is different, but Leslie has found a way to write really good and meaningful Amish fiction. Her stories are realistic and authentic, and this makes her books an absolute joy to read.

This book is an excellent choice for fans of Amish fiction. Whether you are a seasoned Amish fiction reader or new to the genre, this is a good book to read. It is the second in the series, but by no means do you have to read the first book to understand what is going on with the characters in this book. I would, however, recommend the first book because it is excellent as well. I would also recommend reading all of Leslie's books because they are just really good reads.

Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Joanna Grebel meets Adam Slaybaugh, sparks don’t exactly fly on both sides. Adam is interested in Joanna, but Joanna isn’t quite sure about him as love match material. When Joanna expresses interest in friendship, Adam decides that won’t do. He pretty quickly takes himself out of sight, off to Florida to work construction. Joanna starts courting someone she thinks is a more suitable match, but she learns her judgment may have been a little off. Is there still a chance for a relationship between her and Adam?

I do love a good Amish romance. It took me a bit to get into this one. It didn’t grab me right away, and I couldn’t even really tell you why. It felt slow at first, but it picked up about a third of the way through.

Joanna and Adam were both lovely characters. I sure breathed a sigh of relief when Joanna washed her hands of Jacob. Then I was really rooting for her and Adam to figure things out!

I especially enjoyed how the author worked classic fiction into the story. Books play an important role in Joanna and Adam’s relationship, and I didn’t realize until I started seeing reviews for this book that the Amish don’t really read fiction. I love books where I learn something!

Even though I didn’t feel like the book sucked me in right away, it’s still a lovely second chance romance with very creative use of classic fiction. I enjoyed it, and I’d read more in the series!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Fiction is my ultimate favorite genre to read. When They Met Again by Leslie Gould is Book 2 in the Letters from Lancaster County series I really enjoy Leslie Gould's series, and had the opportunity to read Book 1 in this series!

WOW, this storyline is one that immediately had me connected to the story. Joanna Grebel and Adam Slaybaugh are the main characters in this book. Joanna lives with her Grandmother, Mammi Lu, and they have a great relationship. Adam notices Joanna and he is immediately intrigued and wants to be in relationship with Joanna. I really love that Joanna tells Adam she would prefer to remain friends. Adam feels he needs to move from Lancaster County to pursue other interests in Florida. Joanna does date someone else for awhile, but that doesn't work out. Adam eventually returns to Lancaster County to work the Family Business, which Joanna now also works at the Slaybaugh Construction and Renovation Company. I LOVE that when Adam returns he makes it known that he never lost his feelings from Joanna Joanna finally decides to give him a chance and they begin a romantic relationship. Adam sees that Joanna has a broken heart and he is hoping to help her through this part of life by being there for her. Their relationship grows at a perfect pace and the happiness in both of them is a wonderful thing so see. I rarely see "Second Chance Romance" in the Amish Genre, I was thrilled that this was a Second Chance Romance. Joanna and Adam are a sweet couple and their story is a WONDERFUL story! and I am excited for future books in this series!

[Keren Herrera-Lyles · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can't go wrong with a Leslie Gould story.

Joanna has a some personal hurt of feeling not seen nor treated nice.
Adam somewhat direct and impulsive on how he speaks puts her in a not sure if she can trust him. And while he wishes to court her, she wishes to be friends.

When another Amish boy shows up and makes her feel noticed and that they are friends. She says yes to be courted by him only to be hurt twice by him. Joanna believes she can not trust anyone and nobody can love her.

When they see each other again in Florida, Adam and Joanna seem to connect and she feels a friendship growing.

But with ups and downs. Twists and surprises Joanna notices that Adam is always with her. As a friend when she is happy and when she is sad.

I loved the friendship circle that Joanna's grandmother had. And the love between Adam's grandparents. Two things that put this story together. As well, as Joanna realizing that the two things she wishes in life she actually has already.

I enjoyed this story. Adam was a great friend. His attentive attention to Joanna was so sweet. Joanna, was hard worker, despite her fears I believe that's what made her a strong person even when she didn't see it herself.

I also like the way people came together to help Adam's grandparents.

This story has several elements. You will not be disappointed.

I received a ARC from the author publisher. All stated here are my own. I was not required a positive comment.

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been a minute since I read the first book in the Letters from Lancaster County series, so it took me a minute to get my bearings, but once I got the characters situated in my mind, is when this novel really started speaking to me. It didn’t help that I was reading this novel while dealing with a migraine, but honestly, this helped keep my mind off my pain if only for a moment.

While the start was a bit rocky, once I really sat and savored this novel, I really started to enjoy it. The novel is very character-driven and gives us a clear picture of just who these characters are at their core. Both Adam and Joanna are genuinely good people, and I loved seeing them interact and work together and see their friendship blossom over time.

The side characters were a favorite of mine, and the close friendships, particularly with the letter-writing ladies, had my heart. Jacob gave me the ick and for good reason, and sadly, I’ve known a few Jacobs in my life. This “man” made my blood boil, and I hope to see a redemption for him in future installments.

The ending was so sweet and definitely earned. It was very satisfying to see this couple get their happily ever after, and it was the perfect ending to a wunderbaar story.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[June Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

An inspirational story of Amish romance set in a tight-knit traditional Amish community . . .

Joanna Grebel lives in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, with her grandmother—Mammi Lu. She helps around the widow's farm by cultivating and cutting flowers for the farm stand on the property and by assisting others in the community.

Later Joanna is employed by an older couple in the community—Becky and Ike Slaybaugh—to work as an assistant in their construction business. The Slaybaughs purchase homes, renovate them, and flip them for a profit. Joanna is gifted at design and has excellent organizational skills. She is tasked with outfitting the homes with cabinets, fixtures, furniture, etc.

One of my favorite elements of this story is the many inspirational Bible Scriptures that are shared between the characters in letters and conversation. The other is the enduring friendship between four of the older characters—Becky, Rhoda, Elaine, and Lu. These four women were friends back in their Rumspringa time when they were teens. They have been there for each other through courtships, marriage, the deaths of children and spouses, and in good times, too.

The story is completely clean in language and content. I received a copy of this book from the publisher through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

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[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

"When They Met Again" by Leslie Gould is an engaging narrative. Leslie Gould demonstrates a commendable writing style throughout the work. Her stories are engaging, readable, and feature well-developed characters. I like the relationship Joanna had with her grandmother, Mammi Lu. They were friends as well as grandmother and granddaughter. Mammi Lu and her three friends were a hoot. I enjoyed hearing about their antics while they were on their rumspringa. I also valued the portrayal of the characters as imperfect individuals, each facing their own challenges. I liked the classics that were featured in the story (Little Women is my favorite). I was surprised that Adam read the stories (few men are willing to read Jane Austen). The romance between Joanna and Adam progressed slowly, but it gave them a chance to get to know each other and become friends first. The Amish are known for their strong communal bonds, providing mutual support during both prosperous and challenging times. There was only one thing that I found odd in the story, and it was Joanna’s reaction to the letters Adam left her. It was out of character for such an insightful and caring individual. The second book in the Letters from Lancaster County series was truly heartwarming, and I found When They Met Again to be thoroughly enjoyable.

[Ann Mcgraw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish fiction has long been an interesting genre to me. Perhaps it calls me back to a simpler time in my life. Perhaps it is because it is a culture so different from my own. But no matter the culture, some things are the same, such as complicated relationships and all the accompanying emotions!

Joanna, who is a competent young woman in almost anything she does, discovers she can’t trust her own feelings when it comes to some decisions in life. She lives with her widowed grandmother in a tight-knit Amish community and works for a home-renovation business owned by a couple who are like surrogate grandparents to her. The problem is that two young men working there are interested in her. One is the grandson of the owners, and the other is a charmer who wins her heart. It takes 3 years and much heartache for her to see clearly what others have been able to see for a long time.

It is charming the way the author creatively weaves classical literature into the plot. If you are fans of Louisa May Alcott, Jane Austin, Charlotte Brontë, and Lucy Maud Montgomery, you will especially enjoy this book.

[Pam Burke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leslie Gould ‘s When They Met Again was another delightful Amish story from an author whose work I have enjoyed several times. The book is written around an ongoing love story -- or maybe several -- worked into the pages, but at some points figuring out how things will work out is anyone’s guess. Joanna and Adam both have so many directions to go and decisions to make, and finding the right ones certainly makes their lives complicated. Family and friend connections add important and challenging pieces to the puzzle.
There are places where it seems parts of the story are a little disjointed, and the jumping from one element to another can be a little hard to follow. But that causes very little distraction to the story and keeps the many characters and situations moving along to the resolution.

I would recommend When They Met Again to true fans of Amish fiction. I have not had an opportunity to read the other books in this series but would love to enjoy those in the future.

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

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I pick up a book by Leslie Gould, I know I am in for a good read. When They Met Again did not disappoint. I enjoyed watching Joanna and Adam's relationship grow and mature throughout the book. Although I must admit, sometimes Joanna's actions/feelings were frustrating to me! I enjoy reading stories about the Amish — the bonding and fellowship of their communities. Gould does a wonderful job fleshing out her characters so that the reader truly feels like they are real people with very real struggles and heartaches. Strong friendships and family relationships are a recurring theme throughout the story. I was reminded of the importance of being a compassionate friend, mom, and grandmother-someone who can be trusted. Readers who enjoy stories about family and friends set in the Amish community will not want to miss When They Met Again I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a review, and the opinions are my own.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

These were such fun and interesting characters. You got to meet the older generation and learn some of their histories as well as the younger ones and some of the problems they were facing. I loved Adam right off but Jacob, not so much. But Joanna was attracted to Jacob right off. Love at first sight? Joanna did have a good heart and sense most of the time. She did want to be friends with those she was attracted to so that she could get to know them first before getting serious but does the heart always listen? Another interesting side to the story was Betsy and Ike and their house flipping business. This was my first Amish story with that sideline. This author gave enough background information to make the story interesting and believable. A great passage of time for me!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the author but was not required to write a review.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun story! It reminded me a little bit of my own love story, since I thought my husband would only ever be a friend when we first got to know one another. It turns out being friends with your spouse can be a great way to go!

Joanna gets the wrong first impression of Adam, sending her into the arms of Jacob instead. As time passes, and she has more chances to interact with Adam, she finds that all may not be as she originally assumed.

While the story is sweet, I thought the grandma age friend group stole the show! They are delightful, as they matchmake and pray for the young people, learning some valuable lessons along the way. I enjoyed all the characters, but they were especially fun. I loved how Ike and Becky show the beauty of a love that endures over time.

I look forward to reading more books in this series! If you like Amish fiction, I recommend picking this story up!

I received this books from JustRead. This is my honest review.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boy meet girl, love at first sight? Maybe, or maybe for only one? Enter another young Amishman, a very handsome fellow, and there is an attraction.
This is a story that takes place in the Amish settlement in Lancaster PA, but we do journey to Pinecraft FL, and hopes that there is a match somewhere here.
I loved how this Pennsylvania community pulls together to help one another, and surprise them. There are health scares, business problems, and relationship problems, but there is so much love for each other and concern, that I felt I wanted to be part of this community, which I was, even if it was just for a little while!
This was a journey that I'm glad I took!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first book of the series, so was very happy to receive book 2. It is a touching story of Adam and Joanna. Joanna has had an unfortunate time with Jacob and now she is less trusting to have a relationship. As Joanna and Adam work together and as their friendship grows, it was enjoyable to read about them and grow to appreciate them both. I loved the letter-writers. And there was a line that I especially enjoyed reading and seeing in the story, a quote from Mammi Lu, "It's better to give others a piece of your heart than a piece of your mind. That's what Jesus would do."
A good story, and you won't want to miss it! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Debbie Earls · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet story of how Joanna and Adam's working relationship turned to friendship and eventually courtship. Joanna was hurt by Jacob who broke up with her twice. It's hard for her to trust a man again. She does trust God and His guidance for her life. There's a lot of obstacles to overcome but Adam is determined to win Joanna over. Does he succeed? You'll need to read this book and find out! Wonderful characters. Sweet story. This book releases on March 17th, 2026. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own. #bhpfiction #whentheymetagain #lettersfromlancastercounty

[Misty Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet story that emphasizes second chances, forgiveness, and community. It is filled with wonderful characters, but my favorite were Becky, Lu, Elaine, and Rhoda who remind me of an Amish version of the Golden Girls. I loved their lifelong friendship, commitment to each other, and their antics while growing up.

Joanna was a great character with her tenderness, hardworking mentality, and perseverance. I admired her desire to be friends with a young man before courting. I did find the storyline with Adam frustrating at times as I felt she should have listened to her heart more.

Overall, this book contained all the things I love about reading Amish fiction- their deep faith and a strong sense of family and community. I would definitely recommend this book.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

When They Met Again is a very emotional story written by Leslie Gould in her Letters From Lancaster series. This story follows two main characters as they not only navigate life but also a complicated friendship. The characters will definitely pull you into the story. The storyline will have the readers turning pages to see what happens next. I really enjoyed getting to know Joanna and Adams story. There were times where laughter, sadness, and pure joy were brought to life. I enjoyed this story and look forward to more from this author.

[Wendy Andrus]

Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres, so I usually fit in a few throughout the year. When They Met Again is the second book in the "Letters from Lancaster County" series, and the first one I have read. It seems like it might work as a stand alone.

It's a bit interesting how Joanna is determined she doesn't want anyone to court her, even when Adam is trying to persuade her. But then Jacob comes along...From there, the story takes a few twists and turns.

If you enjoy Amish fiction with a bit of romance, you'll want to add this one to your TBR list.

[Laurel · Rating 3 out of 5]

When They Met Again is Gould's second book in the Letters from Lancaster County series. This is a story of second chance romance, faith, and forgiveness set in an Amish community.

This story really seemed to drag to me, and I wasn't that fond of it, frankly. I really disliked the character Jacob. I did enjoy Joanna, although she seemed really wishy-washy in her romantic ventures.

Thanks to author Leslie Gould and #BHPFiction for an early copy of this book.

All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.

#WhenTheyMetAgain

[Rhonda Nash-Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet love story! Joanna spends a long time running from her attraction to Adam. Is he going to give up and move away permanently? Or will he stay and fight for the woman he loves?
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy a good clean romance. I am a lover of Amish fiction as well. Joanna and Adam are Amish, but so is Jacob. Jacob begins courting Joanna when Adam moves away, but which man will win her heart? Read the book to find out. You won’t be disappointed! I I give this book 5 stars.

[Jean Volk · Rating 5 out of 5]

When They Met Again is a heartfelt and beautifully layered second installment in Leslie Gould’s Letters from Lancaster County series. I loved how this story blends family, faith, and forgiveness while deepening the emotional threads from book one. The characters feel so real, and their journeys—both personal and relational—pull you right in. Gould’s writing is gentle, thoughtful, and full of hope. A touching, engaging read that left me eager for the next book in the series.

[Julie Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When they met again by Leslie Gould

This is a sweet romance set in Amish country and features a young woman named Joanna Grebel whose affections are divided between two young men, Jacob and Adam.

Jacob is handsome, confident, and—as Joanna painfully discovers—shallow. Adam, on the other hand, is less charismatic but is kind, caring, and empathetic. As Joanna struggles with her emotions, she gains valuable insights observing successful relationships of older couples she admires.

[Tracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her latest Amish novel, When They Met Again, Leslie Gould introduces many plot twists. I loved her likeable, realistic characters Joanna, Adam, Lu, and Becky and their development. This story isn’t only an Amish romance, it’s also a story about family, relationships, and friendship. I appreciated how the author tied up all the loose ends in the story for a satisfying ending. I recommend this heartwarming story of friendship!