Abigail Stutzman thought it was bad enough being dropped at the nearest bus station and sent to live several states away with some relatives she'd never even heard of, much less met. But now, just a week after her arrival in Jamesport, Missouri, she finds herself at the scene of a barn fire. An intentional barn fire. And all fingers are pointed at her. She's desperate to prove her innocence and protect her reputation, but nobody's making that easy to do. And God certainly doesn't seem willing to help.
Sam Miller is in the process of turning over a new leaf. Determined to atone for the follies of his past, he is a volunteer firefighter, an EMT, and a paramedic-in-training. With suspicious barn fires escalating, and the Miller family being among the victims, no one is more determined to see the perpetrators brought to justice than Sam.
When their paths first cross at the site of a barn burning, the emotional intensity rivals the warms of the flames. Soon, they must decide whether this fire is one they should feed or fight. And they'll discover that the truth can prove more dangerous than a blazing inferno.
Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.
Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.
She has self-published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens.
Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer and blogs for Putting on the New and Seriously Write.
The Amish Firefighter is a story filled with accusations, misunderstandings, and secrets. Sam Miller is the Amish firefighter, who is dabbling dangerously in the Englisch world, as he hasn’t taken steps to join the church. Abigail Stutzman finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong friends. Sam is not in the mood for mercy after finding Abigail at the site of yet another barn burning. But as Sam and Abigail spend more time together they uncover secrets that reveal there are consequences not only for their actions but others' as well. Abigail believes Sam is a rescuer in every sense of the word but is he helping her because he feels sorry for her or does he really care? This is a well-written and endearing story of God’s love and forgiveness as well as learning to listen for God's voice. I thoroughly enjoy Laura’s books and think this is my favorite yet. Some of the characters are familiar from her other books but is definitely stand-alone. You will want this on your to-be-read list!
The Amish Firefighter is a book that you will want to read once you read the first page of this book. This a story about a young girl, Abigail that is sent away from her home for what ever reason she was not given even a clue about why. Abigail was planning on marry a young man, but he also didn't even tell her really good by just said, it is better this way. She found herself living with a Aunt an Uncle that she didn't even know she had. Miranda came into her life an was suppose to be a friend. She came by and asked Abigail to go with her which was a very bad mistake. Abigail was left at a farm an she didn't know what to do, the ones that brought her there ran out of this barn an the smell of fire reached Abilail's nose so she went in to the barn an found it on fire. Not knowing what to do she went looking for water an ended up falling an the next thing she found herself being picked up by some very strong arms an people were coming to get the animals out she was pumping water for buckets an trying to help. She is told to go in house an she was being called a firebug by the man that picked her up. Then her life went right down for several weeks, she has many adventure over the next weeks. Sammy is the man that picked her p and for some reason feels special feeling for her She ends up with a cast on her knee. It is a very well written story about what can happen when you pick the wrong friends lets them get you into trouble. There so many special people that come into her life an she wonders why life has put her in this way, comes to the conclusion that God doesn't love or care for her an so with Sammy who also feels that he can't forgive himself for the things he did. He thinks he is in love but afraid to feel it. There is so much to learn about the two of them and that all it takes is learning to trust. The people in the community tries to show Abigail is a special person an to trust them an then after all the ups an down God sends a message to everyone just how good life is when you trust. There is so much more that I would like to tell you but then you would miss so much of the book get the book asap an find a quiet spot an enjoy a very good book, you will not be sorry at all. You might even read it twice it is that good.
I couldn't put this book down!! I love Laura Hilton's books. I was hoping that Laura would write about Sammy. Sammy was the trouble maker in the Birdhouse. I loved Sammys story. It seems God still works miracles today even. I laughed and I held my breath waiting to see what would happen to Abigal who was constantly getting blamed for everything that happened. I think It is terrible the way her family has treated her but maybe God has led her to live with her family in Jamesport for a reason. Abigal isn't perfect by any means. She is confused and unhappy and winds up in the wrong places at the wrong time and with the wrong crowd. This is what happened to my brother in law. He got mixed up in the wrong crowd. Thankfully, he has finally straightened himself put. We all need God. He knows every hair on our head out thoughts even before we know ourselves sometimes. God has many names but one I haven't seen is de herr. I've heard yaway Jehovah etc. Sammy is learning to grow up and admit his mistakes through trust in God. Too many times we want to do things our way instead of His will on His timing. We get in a big hurry and I'm definitely guilty of this and mess things up. My very favorite verse is That who so ever believes in me shall have eternal life. This means me too!!! I'm so very glad that Jesus loves me no matter what!! Whenever we turn to God in prayer sometimes He answers our prayers but not always in the way we want. I'm glad that Abigal and Sammy got their answers. Also on short note people don't always aplogize Whenever they do wrong to us or vise versa. Laura, you've outdone yourself on this novel. The cover is awesome!! Thank you for letting me read and review your book. I have this book 5 stars because the story made me laugh and cry and even stunned in some places!! Abigal is an ok gal!!! I kept my fingers crossed for her through the entire book.
I received an ARC of this book to read and give my opinion. I have read other books by Laura and was thrilled to get a chance to read this book. I was not disappointed as the story line was interesting, easy to follow, and very down to earth.
I was confused with the title, how can an Amish person be a firefighter in a traditional way you think of firefighters? Sammy we find is not a traditional Amish man, but he has not yet knelt so he has a few more freedoms. Sammy is a very believable young man who is trying to figure out how to best fit into the community and what he plans to do with his life. Enter Abigail, wrong place wrong time in more ways than one. Moving to a new community, trying to fit in, and trying to make friends.
This book pulled me right in wondering about the secrets these two had and how they would work their way into the story. We find their secrets aren't the only ones to worry about. Goes to show anyone can and will keep secrets, but at some point they need to be brought forward.
This book was an easy read, we visit characters we have been briefly introduced to before but if this is your first Laura Hilton book don't worry you won't be lost.
I slipped away for a few minutes and next thing I know an hour had passed along with most of my book. There is no reading this book slowly and trying to make it last, you finish a chapter and have to know what is going to happen next.
There's absolutely no denying it. Once I pick up one of Laura V. Hilton's books, I cannot stop reading it until I've read the entire thing. No matter how much I tell myself, "Just one chapter," it never happens, and The Amish Firefighter is definitely no exception to that rule. It is a beautifully written can't put it down page turner with a perfectly woven mix of romance, mystery, humor, and inspiration.
Abigail Stutzman is a young woman who has been thrust into a new place, with family members she barely knows, and with no real explanation as to why. This question of why nudges at her constantly, to the point of even affecting her faith. There are too many unanswered questions and too many people telling her, "It's not my story to tell." Even though she doesn’t understand everything, Abigail attempts to find her place in her new home. Unfortunately she ends up befriending the wrong people and finds herself being falsely accused of setting a barn on fire, all the while claiming that she is innocent.
However, Sam Miller doesn't see it that way. As a volunteer firefighter and EMT, Sam knows arson when he sees it. And from what he sees, he thinks Abigail definitely had a hand in starting the fire. No matter how much Abigail claims her innocence, Sam is bound and determined to prove that she was involved in some way.
As Sam takes on the task of discovering Abigail's involvement, he and Abigail find themselves more and more in each other's company. They discover that things aren't always what they appear to be on the surface, and this ultimately brings them to some discoveries about themselves and each other. As Abigail and Sam venture through this journey, they also find out that these discoveries often involve very difficult answers which result in some very difficult, life impacting decisions, all of this while trying to discover who the real "feurezeug" is.
Laura V. Hilton has once again written a lovely story that will not only tug at your heartstrings, but will also have you doing some reflecting and discovering of your own.
*****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and viewpoints are my own.
The Amish Firefighter is full of heat, and I’m not just talking about all the barn fires being set in Jamesport. Lots of marvelous (clean) romantical tension and sparks and chemistry and KISSES! Along with the heat, there is the kind of subtle humor that I love. It doesn’t distract from the romantical chemistry or the meaningful faith threads of the story, though. Instead, the bits of humor shore up each of these elements, provide some comic relief from the tension (both the chemistry-induced kind and the angsty kind), and make The Amish Firefighter a very well-rounded story.
A couple of different mysteries run parallel to the characters in The Amish Firefighter as well. Who is setting all the barn fires? Why are they trying to frame Abigail? And possibly most pivotal to the story – why did Abigail’s family send her away so suddenly? But perhaps the most important element to The Amish Firefighter is its message: the exquisite, unfaltering grace of God. Sammy’s heart has been changed by this grace and while he and God are still polishing out some of his rougher edges, the book is full of his tender, personal prayers erupting naturally from this soul who has tasted redemption. God is not some faraway, distant teacher in The Amish Firefighter; rather, He is living and active and extends healing and mercy and love.
Mysteries, humor, romance, and faith – The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton has it all! Characters from her previous books return as the framework for this new series, so longtime fans will see several familiar faces on these pages. I, on the other hand, am looking forward to going back and meeting these characters for the first time as Laura Hilton is now on my list of go-to authors. This is a great read, with elements to appeal to a variety of readers as well as a touching & meaningful message of faith that will linger in your heart.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Forced from home by the only family she's ever known, Abigail Stutzman feels virtually abandoned. Being sent to live with family she's never met only creates more feelings of desertion. Her introduction to the Jamesport Amish community begins with an accusation she's set an Amish barn ablaze and Sam Miller is convinced Abigail is guilty of being the fire starter. Sam's abrasive attitude toward Abigail fuels the fires of her hopelessness.
As other barns are suspiciously set aflame the Amish are concerned about who the perpetrators are, and Abigail has not been ruled out. Sam is convinced of Abigail's guilt, but his attraction for her has begun to kindle sparks of their own. Their eyes lock with the warmth of glowing embers.
"His kiss was soft. Teasing. Yet gentle, as if she were something valuable that might shatter unless handled with utmost care. She wanted to cry at the awareness of it."
Returning to Jamesport is like picking up with a friend that you haven't seen for a while and embracing the relationship. Laura V. Hilton is a polished Amish author who knows how to create an in depth story of Amish life that contains its share of sizzle! Her characters smolder with attraction for one another, keeping the reader turning the pages in anticipation of where the relationship will go. Sam and Abigail will leave you breathless and weak in the knees, with questions of what the future holds for them. I highly recommend these new developments in Jamesport through The Amish Firefighter!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author and Whitaker House in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
How would you react when your family is shunning you AND sending you away to live with your uncle that you didn't even know exist in another state? Plus, you don't even know what you did wrong to cause all of this!
Abigail Stutzman gets bused from her home in Ohio to Jamesport, Missouri, to live with her onkel and aent. Where she finds herself in some trouble, her life being threatened, and bits and pieces to some of her confusion on a family secret.
What would you think if you saw someone laying in your burning family barn? Jump to conclusions? or wait to hear their story? Meet Samuel Miller, Jr., a volunteer Amish firefighter in Jamesport, does just that 'jumps to conclusions before finding out'. Now he is interested in Abigail's mystery.
"'What a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.'"
It is good to have Laura V. Hilton back among the writing Amish genre authors. She has out done herself with "The Amish Firefighter". It is easy flowing with very detailed storyline, that keeps your attention to keep reading to the very end. I look forward to reading more of Laura's books in the future.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review and endorsement, and this is my review in my own honest opinion and words.
Talk about Sizzle! Not sure 5 stars is enough for this story.
This book is on fire, WOW! While it is about a firefighter and acts of arson are part of the story, the fire is in the romance between the main characters. Laura Hilton never disappoints with her complex stories that weave in and out of the character's lives. We know these characters like family when we finish her books, and my question is always, "will there be more about them?" The Amish Firefighter is filled with familiar characters and we can read parts and bits of their continuing stories, in the back- ground of this exciting book. Finger pointing and whispering are about to cause years of deception to crumble. Who will be left standing when the truth finally emerges? Will there be hearts intact, or broken pieces left to pick up? Abigal and Sammy's story make The Amish Firefighter come to life. You will be vested in this story by the end, this book truly is a must-read for 2016. I do want to clarify, there is sizzling romance, but this is not a book that is lewd, graphic, or nasty. The Christian theme shines bright in this story, and yes Christians can have sizzling romances. This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
This book was so different from most of the Amish fiction books I have read. So many twists, turns, and secrets. A book that wasn't cut and dried.
The main characters will have you rooting for them. My heart went out to Abigail Stutzman with all she went through. I wasn't sure about Sam Miller at first. He didn't want to hear Abigail's defense against a crime she didn't commit. Would he come to believe in Abigail's innocence?
This story is a good Christian fiction read. A book that I would not be ashamed to pass along to a fellow believer in my church.
I have read all of this author's books. She has a talent for story telling that I love.
I highly recommend this book. Five star worthy for sure!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and author for my honest review. The opinions expressed in this review is mine alone.
I recieved an Advanced Reader Copy of this book, and I must say this is the #1 read for 2016, Laura Hilton has done it again, no spoiler alert here, but all I can say is I Highly recommend this book, don't let 2016 go by without buying and reading this book, and this book also make an excellent gift for anyone on your gift giving list. all her books are 5 star ratings. so when your done with this one please check out her other books she has available to purchase, you will be glad you did.
The Amish Firefighter is, in my opinion, one of the best Amish novels I’ve read! I hope my words can describe how amazing this story is…
Laura has created a community with well-developed, easy-to-love characters, a strong plot and enough twists and turns to keep the reader involved until the very end.
Abigail Stutzman feels angry, alone, rejected. Why did her stepdad put her on a bus to go live with a relative in another state. Why did her mom not try to stop him? No sooner does she arrive, then trouble seems to follow. And it doesn’t help when Sam Miller, volunteer fireman, accuses her of being a fire starter.
I can’t reveal anything else; I don’t want to spoil it for you. You can see from my review how much I enjoyed reading this book.
If you enjoy reading Amish fiction, you’re going to love The Amish Firefighter!
Laura V. Hilton has written a perfect Amish story of faith, love, family, commitment – while giving readers an exciting look into situations even among the Amish that should be monitored more closely by members of the community.
Don’t miss out on this wonderful novel. Blessings!
Laura V Hilton writes a novel "The Amish Firefighter"
Abigail Stutzman has been taken to a bus station and sent many miles from home and family ,not knowing WHY...She is to live with an aunt that she never knew she had, to say she is heartbroken would only be a smidgin of what she feels.
Sam Miller is an amish man but has an unusual job,he likes to work with firemen and is an EMT. A paramedic-in-training. There have been too many fires in his community and he wants to know WHY...then Abigail shows up and also is found at one of the scenes of a barn fire.
How can she explain-she is only in the wrong place , not the "fire-lighter" as Sam calls her.
In the midst of making friends in a new community Abigail befriends some she should not. soon she learns but by then the damage has been done and Sam questions HOW Abigail always seems to be in the wrong place.
These two seem to be thrown together in the next few weeks and as they get to know one another, there are sparks that fly which each of them tries to squash not wanting there to be anything between them. Abigail and Sam soon realize there is no use to deny and come to terms with their budding relationship.
many have great comments for this author and her story but from a readers prospective this review is written to remind others that a book is just a book until you open and read the pages and immerse yourself with the characters who will touch your heart in the author's story.
"A beautiful young woman banished from home, a brave firefighter with an agenda of his own, a kindled flame neither one could have anticipated, " the tagline for this book is spot on. This latest novel from award-winning author, Laura V. Hilton, ignites on the first page and burns bright to a smoldering end.
This Christian romance is full of secrets and I can't show any here without spoiling your fun. I can tell you that my very favorite parts are the character arcs of Hilton's hero and heroine, Abigail Stutzman and Sam Miller.
Abigail just wants love and the decisions she makes revolve around that want. From choosing the wrong companions to pushing herself physically, she'll do whatever it takes to please -- until she meets Sam Miller, that is. The romantic push-pull between the two is constant, just as constant as the push-pull in Sam's mind.
Sam doesn't know what he wants. He can't even decide if he wants the Amish life -- teetering on the edge by driving and working on cars, even volunteering as a firefighter. As he learns Abigail's secrets, he'll have more decisions to make. Does he want to be a part of the Amish life? Does he want to be part of Abigail's life?
I totally enjoyed this novel and will look for more books by Laura V. Hilton. My sincere thanks to Whitaker House for a copy of The Amish Firefighter in exchange for my fair and honest review.
The Amish Firefighter - another great book by Laura Hilton. Again, the author never disappoints me in her writing. This book is about Abigail Stutzman who has been abandoned at the bus terminal by her stepfather and her then boyfriend whom she thought was her boyfriend until...well, you'll have to read the book to find out about him and the rest of her family. Abigail was left at the bus terminal to be sent to live with her Aunt and Uncle she never knew existed. She's been there only a week and already in trouble when a barn catches fire while she and a group of English friends were in it. Her English friends took off leaving her behind and she was caught by Sam Miller who is the Amish Firefighter. Abigail seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when more than one barn fire is started. Sam Miller who has not joined the church yet is training to be a firefighter while he is making decisions between living Amish or English. I could go on and on about the book but I highly recommend you buy it and read it for yourself. Every book I have read by Laura Hilton is very well written and hard to put down. I have yet to rate any of her books below 5 stars.
I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher for my honest review. The opinions expressed in this review is mine alone.
Laura Hinton’s new release The Amish Firefighter is anything but a pretty little Amish romance. For many years, I avoided this genre fearing predictable plots and flat characters. Hinton’s works have been a pleasant surprise for someone who loves complex, character driven novels.
Although The Amish Firefighter would probably not be categorized as a mystery novel, it abounds with suspense. The convoluted road to resolution makes you want to peek at the back of the book. I can guarantee you will not guess the ending.
If I make myself find something to criticize, it might be that Abigail seems to misinterpret Sam’s actions and motives to the point of being unbelievable sometimes. I found myself telling her, “You know that’s not what he meant.” But if I’m talking to the character, I’m engaged, and the author is doing something right.
I highly recommend The Amish Firefighter. I believe you will enjoy it.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Feeling rejected by her family, Abigail is sent away to another Amish community. Shortly after her arrival, barns are being set on fire. Is she the perpetrator, or just an innocent victim?
Sam, despite being attracted to Abigail, is sure she is at the heart of these fires and treats her accordingly. Will he uncover the truth, and allow his heart to fully embrace Abigail?
I want to see more stories like The Amish Firefighter from Hilton’s pen! This is one book I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The character arc is refined with a plot full of mystery and intrigue! Sometimes Amish fiction is just too ‘sweet’. The Amish Firefighter has much more suspense and action than the typical Amish book, and I read it in record time. It’s a page turner, for sure and for certain!
I appreciate the author and publisher sending me an advance copy for review purposes. Only my honest opinion is asked for. No compensation has been received.
Laura V. Hilton has knocked another one out of the ball park with this book!!! I absolutely loved the book. You will be drawn in from the first page. Abigail just doesn't understand why her mother has sent her away but she soon finds out it is not all it seems to be. She is caught in a few situations and things start to unravel. Will the truth finally come out and Abigail be told what is really going on? This is a page turner for sure.
I received this book for my honest opinion on the book and it is an awesome book. You will not be disappointed.
The Amish Firefighter is not your typical Amish story. Laura V. Hilton has created another well thought out plot that captured me from the first page. The Amish Firefighter is filled with characters that are complex with their struggles, personalities, and discovering what they want in life plus there is never a dull moment in this sensational book.
Imagine being abandoned by the only family you had ever known after your stepfather saw you kissing your step-brother? That's exactly what had transpired with Abigail Stutzman's life. She was sent to live with an aunt and uncle she didn't even know she had. After all, her parents had caused Abigail to believe she didn't have any relatives throughout her lifetime.
Sam Miller, a young Amish man, struggling in what he wants to do is a volunteer firefighter and pursuing his paramedic degree. When Sam arrived at his family's barn fire he discovered Abigail exiting the barn and assume she is guilty. However, when Abigail is brought into his parents' home his mother thought she was his girlfriend. What will happen to Abigail as she had only been in the area for a week?
Sam makes it his mission to assist Abigail. With more barn fires in the area and Sam discovering Abigail inside one of them can he really believe Abigail's story? I cannot share rest of the story. But be assured there are so many twists and turns throughout the pages you cannot stop reading till you discover what all has transpired. Are Sam's past actions still troubling him? Will Abigail discover family members that had disowned other family members? What will the current bishop in the community decide to do when past secrets have been hidden for years from members?
Order a copy of The Amish Firefighter and be prepared to sit and read until the last word has been read. Oh yes, you'll need some tissues while reading and maybe something to punch when certain characters' actions will aggravate you. I appreciate how Ms. Hilton brings in the love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness that God shows to all no matter their past along with scriptures that the characters claim as promises from God.
I received a complimentary copy of The Amish Firefighter from the publisher for my honest review which I have given, along with the book tour for The Amish Firefighter in June with CelebrateLit. 5 stars for The Amish Firefighter. Laura V. Hilton is one of my favorite authors and I look forward to her next novel release.
This is the first book I’ve read by Laura Hilton but WOW what an introduction! Abigail Stutzman has been living with her aunt and uncle in Jamesport, Missouri for one week. Abandoned at the bus stop by her step-father and step-brother, (who was also her “intended”) Abby is sent several states away to live with relatives she didn’t even know she had. Desperate for a friend, she accepts an invitation to attend a party with her young English neighbor only to find herself abandoned – for the second time in a week – this time at the scene of a barn burning. When Sam Miller arrives home to find the family barn ablaze and Abby stumbling out of the door, he jumps to the logical conclusion that she started it. The more he gets to know her, though, the more sure he is that the fire she lit wasn’t in the barn – it was in his heart. When Abby is found at the site of a second barn fire, drugged and unresponsive, Sam begins to see that she is a target, not a culprit. Can Sam and Abby unravel the mystery surrounding Abby’s banishment from her home before her new home gets her killed? What secret could possibly warrant virtually shunning your own child as Abby’s mother has done? Does Abigail know more than she is telling? I read this story in a day and a half and would have been done sooner if I hadn’t had to go to work. I couldn’t put it down. This story centers on the idea that secrets have a way of coming out no matter how carefully they are kept. It also has a strong theme of forgiveness that when we forgive it is often ourselves that we free from bondage. I loved Sammy. Still in his rumspringa , he drives a beater of a car and loves anything with an engine. He is also a strong shoulder for Abby when she needs one the most, helping her talk through what she is going through and standing up for her in ways the other Amish won’t do. While this appears to be a stand-alone novel, it does mention many of the characters in Hilton’s Jamesport Amish series. Now that I’ve read this one I’ll be looking for the other three! There was humor, grief, attraction, and mystery all wrapped up in one novel. Readers of Amish fiction will especially enjoy this book but I think romance or mystery readers will also find something to love here. I received this book through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
This is another outstanding book from a very gifted author. I loved this book so much, I read it in one day. Yes it is that good. It is not the typical feel good Amish story where everyone is happy and helps out. What it is though is a very intriguing book filled with shunning, accusations, mystery and an unforgettable story . Ms. Hilton delivers a very captivating story of characters that came to life.
Abigail has for some reason been sent to her aunt and uncles place to live. What would it feel like to one day wake up and be told you are no longer welcomed at your home? She is very confused by this, but of course obeys her family . She somehow gets mixed up with a group from the new town that seem to have trouble follow them wherever they go. Unfortunately one night while out with her friends, Abigail is somehow accused of a barn fire. There have been a rash of these devastating fires in the town and well you know the saying, Being at the wrong place at the wrong time. " How will Abigail convince a town that she just moved to that she is innocent of the fire?
Perhaps Sam can be of some assistance to her. He is a firefighter who seems to be positive that Abigail had something to do with it. I loved how the author wrote such strong independent characters who compliment each other well. As they get to know each other, you can feel the attraction come to life with gentle words of affection and a concern for each other's well being . Are there secrets in the town that could explain why Abigail was sent there? Does Sam have a past that he doesn't want anyone to know about? Well as the saying goes, " Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive ."
The book was outstanding and I love the Amish words and their meaning at the beginning of the book. The book captures the true meaning of forgiveness, intrigue and a bit of romance that keeps readers glued to the story.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network and Celebrate Lit for an honest review.
The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton Always fascinated by the job firefighters do and hope to learn more about that in this book. Book starts out with a gloassary of Amish terms used-this will be helpful to reference when the words are used in the book. Abigail Stutzman is trying to follow her new friend Mirancda and she discovers the barn they were in is on fire. She hopes to put it out but she stumbles and falls on the ground herself. Sam Miller is an EMT and volunteer fire fighter when he runs into Abigail and assumes she started the fire. They alert others and both help to put the fire out as she tries to escape but Sam finds her and so does his father. Lots of action. Bit hard to keep track of all the characters til you realize their connection. He tells Sam not to accuse her ... he does find out more details of the night of the fire while they are having a snack at McDonalds while waiting for his beau to finish her shopping. We learn more about why she's at her aunts house and not at her house in Ohio and his friendship with PJ. Interested to hear the talk of a real American teen, the slang used and how foreign it sounds to the Amish. Then again some of their words are foreign to us-Americans. Also what goes on at the church service, during and after. Shame she fell and ended up in the ER where she found out more news from home. She and Sammy had talked about how everybody in town knew she'd be there, at least a month before she even arrived. She's told to trust her mother but nobody will explain what happened. Just when things are going well with them both, they like each other, events are brought to the forefront and you wonder if they can ever get past them...prayers from everybody to help overcome the hurt and shame.. I received this book from The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review
The Amish FireFighter " by Laura V. Hilton is not your normal Amish type story. I couldn't put this book down till I had read it all. The cover lets you know that it isn't going to be a typical love story between two Amish people. Then you have the title, an Amish firefighter, not typical at all. This book is full of surprises from beginning to end. I didn't know "The Amish FireFighter " was part of a series till I read the guest post from Laura Hilton and I haven't read "The Postcard" where the hero, Sammy, was a bad guy. In the guest post, Laura Hinton says that is why she started this series (New Beginnings in Jamesport), and I really loved "The Amish FireFighter" and that it is a continuation of (The Amish of Jamesport) series so you don't have to know the background to enjoy this new book. But, I will be reading (The Amish of Jamesport) series. I am already anxiously awaiting the next two books in this series. This novel is full of twists and turns that will surprise any reader of the Amish genre. I certainly recommend "The Amish FireFighter" for readers that don't normally like Amish books. This story tells how secrets do come to light and then more damage is done than what would have been if the truth was dwelt with in the beginning! I almost forgot to say this story is also a love story, really a couple of love stories. "The Amish Firefighter" by Laura Hinton is definitely a five star novel. I was given a copy for an honest review in this book tour and these opinions expressed are my own.
How would you feel if your family took you to a bus station with nothing but the clothes on your back and left you? Sure you have a ticket but that takes you to a family and a community that you have never visited. Abigail Stutzman finds herself in just this predicament. She has never been to Jamesport and doesn't know her Aunt and Uncle. Just a week after her arrival she is accused of setting barn fires in the community. What is she to do?
Sam Miller caught the Fire starter or so he thinks. Determined to turn over a new leaf, he is an Amish firefighter, an EMT and a doctor to be. Catching the new girl at his family's barn fire, Sam doesn't quite believe that she is really the one. But could she be the one for him?
Sparks between Abigail and Sam are evident from the start. Will they be able to overcome all of the past turmoils and controversies? Will the real fire starter be found before more barns burn?
This is not your typical Amish story. I love how Laura Hilton adds just enough suspense and mystery to keep the reader turning the page. I really wanted to yell at some of the characters about how they handled the whole situation. The story was one I had not expected since the Amish try to stay away from the English world and the sins within. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Hilton's books in the future. I received a copy through Bookfun in exchange for my honest review.
" 'Water under the bridge and all that.' 'Seems that water hit a dam and flooded and now Abigail's caught in it.' " What a quote that neatly sums up much of this fantastic story, The Amish Firefighter, by Laura V. Hilton. If I wasn't a fan before, I'm a life-long fan now.
Hilton spins the tale of young Abigail, abandoned by her family to an aenti and onkel in a strange community. Searching for friends lands her as a lead suspect in Amish barn fires. Sam,an Amish firefighter, is the first to discover her after a fire. She sets his heart on fire, and he can't decide whether she needs help or incarceration.
Hilton deftly draws her characters so lifelike that the reader feels the angst of discovering the burning barns;the fear of rejection;the frustration of knowing people are sweeping your secrets under the rug (but not telling you); the taste of Zelda's dreaded bean soup.
Some messages gleaned: Secrets kept for protection often backfire. God is merciful to forgive. Christians need to be reliable. People tend to read Christians' failures as God's failures.
Can't wait for Laura V. Hilton's next book! I gratefully received this one from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
Wonderful story! Oh, how I am crushing on Sam. He's such a well-crafted character in this story and he steals the show. Strong, full of good morals, and sounds like the most beautiful man inside and out, what's not to crush on?! Abigail is one lucky girl! This town kind of angered me. How could they not know it wasn't Abigail? I knew it, just from who she was and how she acted, they should have known it too being God-fearing folk. It bothered me that some condemned her before knowing the truth. I also didn't like her mother holding information from her like she did. Having lived through that in my life, it was hard to read through seeing it done to someone else. No parent should deny a child from knowing who their parents or family are. It's a form of abuse in my opinion. Even if done with good intentions, those are actually selfish acts disguised as good intentions. But the writing of the story was well done, being my first time reading this author, I love the ease of flow with the writing. I also love a good Amish story, especially with some suspense thrown in. A good start to this series. I look forward to more!
This isn’t your typical Amish novel that portrays the Amish as perfect people living in their perfect world. The characters in this book experience life changing situations that are real and how they handle them are what makes this a most interesting read,
I liked Abigail and felt she was treated unfairly. It took me awhile to warm up to Sam. I actually liked him after a while and I enjoyed the relationship between him and Abigail. I don’t want to give too much away but. I can say that some of my favorite scenes took place at The Hen Haus. This is where Ms. Hilton lightens things up a bit with the three elderly ladies that are an integral part of the story. Zelda is very sweet and her cooking is a bit different to say the least. Overall, I found the book well written with well-defined characters. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest opinion.
THE AMISH FIREFIGHTER by Laura V. Hilton is the wonderful written story of Abigail Stutzman. For reasons unbeknownst to her, she is put on a train and sent off literally with only the clothes on her back leaving behind the only family she’s ever know headed to Jamesport, MO to live with her Uncle (Onkel) Darius and Aunt (Aenti) Ruch nevermore to be allowed to return home.
After arriving and trying to fit in somewhere, Abigail thinks she has made a new English friend, Miranda. However, after being invited to what she thought was going to be a party and then left to shoulder the blame when the barn is burned down, she realizes that once again she is on her own. But now she has to fight being labeled an arsonist – a feuerzeug – a fire-lighter, when she is found in a barn as it was burning.
Sam Miller is not only a volunteer firefighter, but also an EMT and a paramedic-in-training. Although he’s Amish, he hasn’t yet joined the church. He has done plenty that according to Amish rule is wrong which great shames himself. He has come to the realization that the English life isn’t for him and he’s trying to correct some of his wrongs. One thing he does know though is that too many innocent folks have been affected by the rash of barn burnings and homes being burnt down. His own family was affected not once when they lost their home a little over a year ago, but now twice that their barn was burnt down. He’s determined to find answers and the first one will come from the girl he caught inside their burning barn.
Abigail and Sam have great chemistry where sparks fly whenever they are together. Those sparks, at times, send them to opposite corners ready to fight, but eventually they learn that working together that they can help solve the mystery of who is behind the burnings and why and along the way help ease each other’s burdens. There is definitely a mystery to be solved, but can romance bring these two strong willed people together? Can Abigail find the answers to her past and explanations as to what happened? Can Sam find peace with is past and find forgiveness in those he has done wrong?
THE AMISH FIREFIGHTER is an amazing, well-written story of despair that can only be dispelled by faith, hope through prayer, learning what true friendship is, love that can overcome anything, the true meaning of the word family, and a book that will leave you happy, smiling and hoping to hear more of the story of Abigail and Sam as well as the town of Jamesport.
Whether you have read Laura Hilton’s books before or not, if you love a good clean Christian written novel, you will love THE AMISH FIREFIGHTER. It will have you going to check out her other amazing books. I know I will be!