Starting from Scratch

Lancaster Discoveries #2

by Kate Lloyd

An Old Flame Brings a Spark of New Hope

En Alt Maedel—an old maid.

At age twenty-nine, that's what Eva Lapp considers herself. And who could argue with her? Finding a good Amish husband at her age will be next to impossible. Plus, Eva's unwarranted bad reputation in Lancaster County precedes her. Maybe living the Englisch life would be better.

Squeezed out of her childhood home by her brother's boisterous family, Eva finds lodging and a new job managing a small café at a local plant nursery. But the challenge of her new position isn't enough to distract from her current predicament.

To Eva's surprise, her first love, Jake Miller, suddenly returns to Lancaster County. Flooded with emotions and filled with questions about Jake's past, can Eva trust what she's feeling?

Jake and Eva face many obstacles in their quest for a fresh start in the community, but perhaps with God's help, they can find the redemption they both desperately need.

Genres: Amish, Christian Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Amish Fiction, Christian, Contemporary

352 pages, Paperback

Published March 21, 2018

About the author

A native of Baltimore, bestselling author Kate Lloyd and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, the setting of Reinventing Ruthie. She has worked a variety of jobs, including restaurateur and car salesman. When she isn’t writing she enjoys travel, but would rather walk the beach with her cairn terrier, Piper. She still misses her dear Welsh corgi and couldn’t live without a dog.

Learn more about Kate on her website: https://www.katelloyd.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/katelloydbooks
Instagram:@katelloydauthor
Giveaways on her Blog: https://katelloyd.com/feed
Pinterest: @KateLloydAuthor

Reviews

[Jody McGrath · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting book. I liked learning more about the Amish and their relationships to people outside their faith and those not yet baptized into their faith.

I think the biggest problem I had with this book was the main character, Eva. She was 29 years old and considered a spinster, but once she was out in the world around men, every man around her decided that she was the one. Before that she was considered "on the shelf". Did she never see men at her church or in her community? Was she only attractive once she lived in a different community? And then of course the boy who broke her heart 10 years ago comes back to town. There are 4 contenders for Eva's heart. What should she do?

I am not going to spoil the ending, but I didn't like it. I can't say anymore or get on my soapbox. The whole love angles just ruined a good story for me. I wish it wasn't a romance, lol! Probably not the correct answer.

*I requested a copy of this book from Netgalley and have voluntarily given an honest and unbiased review *

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready for a book that you can't put down.This is not your average Amish book. Not a story that you have heard before. It is a great afternoon read.

Great plot, great characters. This is a 5 star read. I HIGHLY recommend this book.

The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

STARTING FROM SCRATCH is a great new Amish romance from acclaimed author Kate Lloyd. Written in first person, you are in Eva's head and privy to only her thoughts and opinions, which leaves the reader guessing. Will Eva find someone to love? Jake is back, but rumors abound that he'd married another. Has he? What about Mark, a younger Amish guy five years Eva's junior who seems smitten with her? Or Stephen, a Mennonite man who seems interested? Or the widowed bishop? A love dilemma with many angles and I was left guessing, forming opinions and changing my mind as I got to know each character.

I felt for Eva forced out of her home by her brother's wife and hired at a job she really wasn't prepared for. Manager of a restaurant when she could barely cook and didn't read a recipe all the way through before starting? God must have been laughing at that. Add in a rather grumpy Italian widow who disapproves of everything Eva ever does and judges her on her past, an Amish teen with a major crush on one of Eva's prospective beaus and thunderstorms galore (God's judgement on Eva?) and you have a page-turner sure to hold you captive from start to finish.

Kate Lloyd expertly wrote a character who his vulnerable and hurting, one I couldn't help but root for.

[Diana Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of Kate's books but I think this is my favorites so far. Well written characters. Story of a past love who comes back and think he is automatically going to be accepted. Eva Lapp is 29 and pretty much believes her life is not going to include a husband or children. Things are changing on the home front when a brother and family move back in to take over family home. Not enough room for everyone. Eva decides to move out and away from home to work for someone else. Not knowing if she is still truly in love with Jake Miller she is leaving options open. In pass that was easy to do. But now there is Jake, Mark, Stephen and also a bishop who has their eye on her. What is she to do? This story has romance but also a mystery in it. Loved it!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting from Scratch ( Lancaster Discoveries )
By: Kate Lloyd
Starting from Scratch is book two in Lancaster Discoveries Series. Ms. Lloyd has really gone all out on Starting from Scratch . I believe it is one of her best. The story is well written and the characters are well developed. This is a series , but it can be read as a stand-a-lone without any problems. The author has written about Amish life and romance in Lancaster County, Pa. This is a page turner that will have you trying to read faster to see what is going to happen next. I really loved this story and I know you will too.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Ms Lloyd creates a picturesque and action filled novel of Amish life in Lancaster County, PA. Eva Lapp is thrust into a life of independence rather unexpectedly, and is somewhat skeptical which direction her life is headed, even at the age of 29. Unsure of herself and concerned about past rumors she attempts to move forward with her life, still hopeful for a home and family of her own.

Numerous characters fill the pages of this Amish fictional tale, some likable, some not so much! Character development is well done, and as in the past this author captures and portrays the settings exceptionally well. I was transported to the countryside of Amish farms, and enjoyed the setting of a locally owned nursery with gift shop and cafe.

Original and fast paced, Starting From Scratch is filled with lessons in living, particularly for one lonely Amish woman. Pick up a copy for a great reading experience, particularly if you love reading about the Amish way of life.

I received a copy of this book as a gift, with no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy Kate Lloyd's Amish books and this one added to that feeling!

This was a book of redemption, of misconstrued gossip and misunderstanding of truth.

As Jake and Eva try to redeem themselves, things seem to get in the way of that goal. Yet they continue to work towards that goal.

This book has some romance, some mystery and suspence. It is written in first person, Eva. So you can understand her thoughts and feelings as the book progresses.

In a well-paced book, Eva goes through the process of making important decisions in her life, never rushing to meet everyone's approval of being baptised into the faith. I felt that she was a careful person, not wanting to make a mistake and wanting to do the best she could for both herself and others.

This was probably my favorite book from this author. It wasn't a "cookie-cutter" Amish, a term that I have seen regarding descriptions of some Amish books, but had a new and unique concept which was very enjoyable to me.

I highly recommend this read. And it will keep you up reading late!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be prepared to spend an afternoon or evening reading Starting from Scratch by Kate Lloyd. A winsome story from the perspective of Eva Lapp as she had to start a different journey in life—new community, manager of a cafe, potential admirers, gaining cooking skills, and even trying to handle a drunkard Englischer who stole from the café and other offenses he committed. This is not your typical Amish romance story. Beatrice, housekeeper/nanny for the café’s owner with her Italian heritage, Mennonites running the nursery, friendly officers, widowed Bishop, mystery, faith, forgiveness, resilience and multiple unexpected twist and turns. This book represents life’s struggles in dimensional ways with a multiple of characters that are realistic. I obtained this book through our library inter-loan service. A review was not required; however, I have expressed my since thoughts. I’ve read each one of Lloyd’s thus far with each new one topping the previous one, thus I’ll abide my time till the next one is released.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was Kate's best yet!
I loved how she mixed humor with drama.
I believe in giving a person a chance to come around even if you're not sure at first.
I guess what I mean is don't judge a person before you get to know them.
Gossip is an evil thing. It can ruin a person before they get a chance to defend themselves!!
I loved Eva. I loved her determination to set thing right
I also don't like ppl being pushy! The more ppl push me to do something that I don't want to do I balk!!
I loved Eva for this reason so I definitely can relate to her in that area!!
Sometimes I also believe in giving ppl a second chance as that is what Jesus would do.(Forgiveness) from te heart.
Jake is a perfect example. I
I enjoyed the mystery that was in this awesome novel. I think that's what made it so good!
I can't wait for y'all to read this awesome book!!
I received this book for free. All opinions are my own.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has presented us with a story of an Amish woman whom the rumor mill has tried to destroy her reputation, and at twenty-nine has still not joined the church.
While Eva Lapp has tried to go on with her life after the love of her life left their community, she is in for a surprise when Jake comes back. Here is another character that gossip has tried to destroy his character, and now he has returned after many years and he wants Eva.
Eva is now in a position of working and being on her own, and there are at least three men interested in this sweet lady. Will she end up with any of them? I found myself rooting for one and then the other.
We are given a bit of romance, mystery, and family dynamics, as Eva’s brother moves home to take over the farm.
What a great story here, and there is never a dull moment, and when the book ended, I really wanted more!

I received this book through the Publisher Harvest House, and ws not required to give a positive review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting from Scratch is a great read! It is probably my favorite written by Kate Lloyd.
5 plus stars.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

One book that will have you guessing till the end. Strong characters, humor and mystery intermixed in the story. Edge of your seat page turner.

[Trisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eva Lapp is an interesting contradiction. She is independent, yet longs to be married. She wishes for something different in her life, yet she dreams of the past and what could have been and when change comes to her routine she's fearful of it. I was never quite sure what to expect from her. Written in first person, you really gain an intimate perspective of the heroine.

With a fun cast of eccentric characters, including an Italian nanny, who enjoys cooking and meddling,  several suitors for Eva to choose from, and a host of energetic dogs to keep track of, one is kept guessing till the end of how it will all turn out. 

At its core, this story points out the dangers in gossiping as well as reminding us that behind the perfect facade we create, lies the fact that we all fall short, and are in need of grace and forgiveness. 

Fans of Amish fiction are sure to be delighted with this latest story from Kate Lloyd.

(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Starting from Scratch is well-written and has gentle pacing. It can be enjoyed without having read A Letter from Lancaster County (first book in Lancaster Discoveries series). I was not a fan of Eva. I found her to be contradictory. She is twenty-nine, but she acts like someone who is sixteen. I fond her immature in many respects. Eva takes a job and has no clue what she will be doing. She has never inspected the cottage where she will be living and is not prepared to move out on her own. Eva does not bring sheets, towels, or kitchenware with her. If Marta had not packed her clothing, I have a feeling she would have been without that as well. Eva left a job at a quilt shop that she loved to work at the nursery in the hopes that she will meet some eligible men. I wondered if no men lived in her town or went to her church. I did not feel that Eva is ready to be married. Eva is a woman who needs to be comfortable with herself (become independent) before she embarks on a relationship. Beatrice Valenti starts out gruff in the beginning and as a little pushy. I like how she softens over the course of the novel as her story is revealed. The Christian theme is prevalent throughout the book. Forgiveness, grace, acceptance of others, in God’s timing, and following the path God has planned for you are some of the Christian elements. In Starting from Scratch there is a homeless man, a barn fire, a past mystery that needs to be resolved, and someone is breaking into the café. I liked the way the author tied the various events together in the story. I was, though, disappointed in the ending. I would have liked to see Eva make a different choice where she is truly starting from scratch. The story is told strictly from Eva’s point-of-view (first person). It would have helped to know what some of the other characters were thinking and feeling. It would have added more depth. I am giving Starting from Scratch 3 out of 5 stars. Starting from Scratch felt like it was missing something (not sure what) and there were unresolved issues at the end of the book.

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading A Letter From Lancaster County and loving it, I knew I had to get my hands on this book. I was so excited when I got that chance! Don't get me wrong, when it comes to Amish Fiction, I'm very picky. With favorites like Wanda Brunstetter, Beverly Lewis and Amy Clipston, I have high expectations when it comes to well written, inspiring simple lives of the Amish variety. Ms. Lloyd is right up there with them and I loved every second of this page-turning, scrumptiously written, novel.

The characters within this novel are chiseled flawfully and beautifully. Jake and Eva remind me a lot of my own husband and myself. We both had a rough go for many years, and after meeting each other, and seeking God, we got to start over with each other, start from scratch and create a beautiful life together. Eva and Jake are captivating both alone in their stories, and when they are together. Watching them come to terms with their need to seek God in all they do, and for their need to start over and move on from the past, really tugged at my emotions.

Ms. Lloyd is truly talented. This novel is so worthy of the 5 star praises I'm singing to people. This book will wrap you up, twist you inside out, and land you in a place that only God can prepare for you. The inspiration that Ms. Lloyd pieces into the pages is beyond amazing and before I knew it, I was done with this novel. I can't wait for another fantabulously done, awesometastic Amish story in this incredible series! Well done, and hats off to you, Ms. Lloyd! Bring on the next!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book left me with mixed emotions. At first I was really drawn into the story like a magnet. But then as I continued into the story it seemed that Eva Lap the main character of the story drew more and more potential suitors that it seemed very far fetched. Near the end there were actually 4 which left me wondering if this book was meant to be humorous. Eva Lap seemed to be confused over who she wanted to be with and even if she wanted to stay Amish or jump the fence and go English.
I would have to say I enjoyed the first book of the series much better than this one. It's a shame because I thought the cover was so cute. But sorry to say that I wasn't overly impressed with the last half of this book.

[Connie Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is delightful. You get a glimpse of Amish life when the rumor mill is running. We also learn the lesson of "In God's Time". Eva Lapp feels she is too old for finding someone special in her life. Circumstances send her to work and live among the Englisch and she meets Stephen and runs into her past love, Jake Miller. A series of twist and turns and new friends can make Starting from Scratch a joy to read. (PS you will love Beatrice!). Thank you Kate Lloyd for sharing your gift of telling a story.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eva Lapp is a young girl or woman. She takes a job that her cousin Olivia recommends. Her brother and his family show up at her parents home two days early. Her sister-in-law decides to send her on her way.

When she gets to Yodel’s Nursery she is in surprise for she thinks she goes to be working with plants. There a surprise when she finds out she is to manage the small cafe.

She seems to be getting suitor left and right, though she does not feel them. She thinks they are either too young or she does not know for sure.

Jake returns and Eva has a feeling for him. Are they true or is she just think she got feelings. Things get a little bumpy when someone breaks into the cafe or at least looks that way. Stephen seems to have a feeling for Eva but does Eva have a feeling for Stephen?

There is an adventure at every turn once you start reading. Some folks keep blaming Jake for the burned down fire? Did Jake do it? Eva also is having trouble with whether to stay Amish or to go English? Kate Lloyd writes a completing story and shows how Eva Lapp is snuggling with her problems. Can she overcome them? Will Jake and Eva turn towards God for help?

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real page turner

Kaye Lloyd has a style of writing that makes you not want to put the book down. The first night I read 5 chapters before falling asleep reading. The next night I read the remaining 46 chapters having to prop up my eyes to keep from falling asleep. It was that good.
After Eva leaves her family home to become the cafe manager at a nursery live on her own for the first time, she experiences many challenges including an older woman who she feels is stepping on her shoes in the cafe, an overbearing sister in law and an Amish and Mennonite suitor as well as her long lost love who has joined the English world.
She somehow gets into some sticky situations which has rumors flying and keeps you wanting to give her your two cents worth. The ending was a surprise for me. A refreshing twist.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has the most attractive cover!! It immediately caught my attention and drew me into guessing what it could be about, baking utensils, flour, and a display case full of goodies! Why is a young Amish girl looking at these delicious goods?? I have enjoyed all of the novels that I have read by this author, however, I must say that I think that "Starting from Scratch" is THE BEST!! It was unique in that it didn't follow my usual expectation of the Amish genre. It was NOT a girl meets guy, falls in love, type of story! In fact, it definitely was not a "love at first sight" romance.

The characters are so realistically and well described that I at once became part of their lives and walked alongside them in their rocky journey through life. I easily identified with Eva, a twenty nine year old single woman. After all, I, myself , was 35 when I married. The sense of hopelessness of finding a partner at her age seemed next to impossible. I, too, experienced that dilemma. Family problems abound as Eva attempts to become more independent. Leaving one's home and beginning a new life is not easy. It was difficult for Eva to face her challenges. I became totally engrossed while reading of her family problems, rumors and troubles that arise. She had so much to deal with and faced so much judgement from others. Her meeting with her first love, Jake, caught me by surprise, as she debated if she should trust him, despite a somewhat questionable past. I could feel Eva's struggle in deciding if he had really changed.

The plot moves at a steady pace with just enough twists and turns to keep the reader fully occupied from beginning to end of the novel. So many obstacles appeared in Jake and Eva's path. Could they ever get a fresh start in life ? Can people forgive and forget??? The description of this Amish community was so well done that I could picture the rolling hills and the well kept farms.


This is a MUST READ for all lovers of Amish fiction. To those who normally are not attracted to this genre, try it ! Kate Lloyd writes in her unique style that appeals to all. Her somewhat quirky characters leave you wondering what will happen next in their lives.



This book was received as a gift. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book from start to finish. The twist and turns keep you captivated. It tugs at your heart, for sure. If you love Lancaster County, you will be sure to fall in love with this book.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting from Scratch is enjoyable from start to finish. Entertaining and rich in details, Kate Lloyd masterfully weaves the lives of her characters into a captivating story, rewarding the reader with a highly satisfying read that is difficult to put down. When I finished the book I found I wanted to read more of Kate's books, and God willing, I shall. Mrs. Lloyd truly has a God-given talent for writing, and I do hope to see many more books from her pen.

Starting from Scratch is told in first-person narrative, and the main character, 29-year-old, unmarried Eva Lapp, presents her day to day life in a way that authentically reflects her struggle
between staying with the Amish community, or cutting the ties and living in the verboten world of Englichers.
She is basically uprooted from her childhood home and relocated into a new job as the manager of a small cafe at a plant nursery which is fairly close to her old home. I liked how she persevered, and how she handled uncomfortable situations with insight and good-natured repartee.

A little bit of romance, not too much, and a lot of skillful relationship building.
Truly a good, clean Christian fiction book about the Amish, I recommend this to anyone who enjoys
Christian fiction.
Starting from Scratch (Lancaster Discoveries Book 2), reads very nicely as a stand alone
novel, too.
Kate Lloyd, author of Starting from Scratch:
Her Website: http://katelloyd.com/

Kate’s Blog: http://katelloyd.com/blog/ Connect with Kate: https://twitter.com/KateLloydAuthor

Her pinterest pages: https://www.pinterest.com/katelloydau...

Kate Lloyd on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katelloydau...

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Starting from Scratch" by Kate Lloyd is the second book in the (Lancaster Discoveries) series. This is a story about a second chancer at love.

When Eva is focused to move out of her mother's home, she takes a job and is surprised to found that her old flame is back in town. This is a story of how rumors and not talking things over with loved ones leave a lot of hurt and lots of years living with questions and regrets.

Jake and Eva are both victims of rumors, and Eva has three suitors trying to win her hand. Which one wins, I really didn't have a preference for two of them, either one was fine with me but one of them I was like no, Eva you can't really marry him because he isn't the right one for you. ok. Don't judge me, I bet most reader have though that when reading books that are about a character choosing a mate.

This is a love story but there is also a mystery, why does Heath, the dog, keep coming up missing and who sets the barn fires?

I would recommend this book to any reader who likes the Amish genre and I think a reader would enjoy the novel even if you haven't read the first in the series or any other books by Kate Lloyd.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author. These are my opinions.

[Cherese Akhavein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Lancaster Discoveries Series by Kate Lloyd “Starting from Scratch”
In a way a can’t help but think this book truly is a book of fresh starts not only for the characters, but I get the feeling that our beloved author Kate Lloyd has grown by leaps and bounds with this wonderful book. I have always loved Kate’s books but this one took it to a whole new level.
Not to many of us get the chance to re invent our life or as the title states, Start from Scratch but as you read in this book Eva Lapp gets the opportunity to do just that,
I won’t give any spoilers with this book what I will say is that the cast of characters are carefully written and you will feel the power of the story line right down to the finest detail.
Problems arise when old meets new as it normally does, Jake Miller is Eve’s old boyfriend and first love, just when Eve thinks she may be on the road to that fresh start Jake shows up, Is it possible to get over our first love? Can we move forward from the past and all that happened? Don’t miss the opportunity to read this wonderful book, it was fabulous, I highly recommend it.

[Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something about the simple life of the Amish that is very intriguing. Here in “Starting From Scratch”, we see Eva leaving her family home to live and work elsewhere and at the ripe old age of 29, start her life from scratch. Soon after, unbeknownst to Eva, the suitors begin to stack up. Should she see what she has left in the past or should she venture out to see what new hearts she can find? A tried and true recipe for romance along with some great twists and turns makes for one book you won’t want to miss.

Is this a "Guys Book"? Not really, as this genre has romance written all over it. But you never know, you pick this book up and you might learn a thing or two about romance 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eva Lapp is a unique protagonist, she is not a starry-eyed young lady planning a wedding and dreaming of a family of her own while waiting to marry the man of her dreams. In fact, her story is quite different which is probably why I enjoyed it as much as I did.

I felt so bad for her when she’s forced to leave her childhood home, but once I saw the possibilities of a fresh start for her, I liked the direction the author was taking her in. Yes, even by placing Eva in a position of managing a cafe she was quite frankly not cut out for. I found that to be a clever way of meeting and getting to know some of the other characters. What characters they are, too!

Overall, I found the characters to be well-developed, interesting and facing real challenges as best as they can with the circumstances they are in. If you enjoy Amish fiction and would prefer something with more mature characters, than I recommend this one.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book and have given my honest opinion.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starting From Scratch is another winner by a favorite author, Kate Lloyd. Although part of the Lancaster Discoveries series, this is definitely a stand-alone read. Eva Lapp has been ousted from her family home with the arrival of her brother's family and begins life anew in Lancaster County. Life changes, gossip, and new relationships are intertwined with barn fires, unexpected intruders and missing sheep to keep the story moving at a good clip. And add to the mix the love interests that seem to show up...Jake, an old love from teenage years, Stephen, the Mennonite man Eva reports to at her new job and even the widowed bishop. The author keeps the reader wondering to the very end of the story which one will win Eva's heart. I loved the character Beatrice, an older woman who comes off as a bit gruff at first and yet is such a good friend to Eva. I listened to a library copy of the audiobook and the narrator, Wendy Tremont King did a great job telling Eva's story, making for an enjoyable listening experience.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Pleasant, Enjoyable Book!
I absolutely loved reading Starting from Scratch, from the beginning to the end. The characters were great especially Beatrice, an Italian woman who at first I didn’t like but grew to love her as the story went on. Steven, a Mennonite was my choice for Eva but in the end, Eva chose Jake, the love of her life (who I thought was a little immature). I thought Eva at the age of 29 did very well after moving to a cottage by herself away from her parents, managing a café at a local nursery and putting up with many incidents that were occurring in her life with Beatrice, three men and running the café. The book was very well written, very pleasant and very enjoyable. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading Amish fiction. You won’t be disappointed!
I received this book from the author/Harvest House Publishers and this review is my honest opinion.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Kate Lloyd writes Amish fiction I don't read her books for the Amish setting but because she touches my emotions with her heartwarming stories. Great character development, they have self issues and sometimes problems that stem from their families. The problems and how they solve them are things that can happen in any family any where. In this book Kate shows how gossip can hurt others and wrong impressions are formed. Our heroine Eva Lapp has pulled into herself due to an unwarranted reputation ruined by gossip. Join Eva, her family and friends and see how they deal with the issues affecting their lives and self-worth.

I received this book from the Harvest House Publishers and I received it free of charge for my honest review. All opinions are my own. I highly recommend anything written by Kate Lloyd. Her books always touch my heart.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Lloyd put a different spin on Amish life in Starting from Scratch, that I never thought about before, leaving me captivated in the first few pages. With her vivid descriptions she deposited me right in to the midst of mystery and romance.

So many great charactors kept this story going for me. I cared for each one but Eva just captured my heart with the way she was treated and the words spoken against her. She was loving, hard working, and followed God. It reminds me not to believe everything I hear.

This story kept me guessing on how it would end. Then, it didn't go as I imagined it would. I'm over it though and I enjoyed every page.

A great great read.
This book was given to me by the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review.