Room on the Porch Swing

Amish Homestead #2

by Amy Clipston

When tragedy strikes, can two young Amish people find the hope that lies on the other side?

Laura Riehl is no stranger to heartache. Less than a year after her mother's death, Laura finds herself burying another loved one: her best friend, Savilla, who has died after a brief and sudden illness. Laura feels heartbroken and alone, but her pain is nothing compared to that of Allen, the husband Savilla has left behind. He now faces a life so different from the one he imagined--plus a baby to care for on his own.

When Laura offers to help Allen with baby Mollie, he jumps at the opportunity until a permanent solution can be found. She'd do anything to lend a hand to Allen and to honor her best friend's memory. Rudy, Laura's boyfriend, is initially supportive of her plan, but the more time Laura spends with Allen, the more jealous and frustrated Rudy seems to become.

As Laura and Allen face hardships together, their friendship takes a surprising yet comforting turn--and she discovers an attraction she's never felt with Rudy. Would falling for Allen betray the people she cares about most, or would denying those feelings betray her heart? This latest installment in the Amish Homestead series returns us to Lancaster County, home of the beloved Riehls, where a family's strength--and advice from a new friend--may help Laura find God's direction.

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

498 pages, Library Binding

First published May 8, 2018

About the author

Hi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.

Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)

Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)

Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)


An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)

An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)

An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)

An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)

Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)

Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)

Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)

Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)

Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)

Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About this book:

“When tragedy strikes, can two young Amish people find the hope that lies on the other side?
Laura Riehl is no stranger to heartache. Less than a year after her mother’s death, Laura finds herself burying another loved one: her best friend, Savilla, who has died after a brief and sudden illness. Laura feels heartbroken and alone, but her pain is nothing compared to that of Allen, the husband Savilla has left behind. He now faces a life so different from the one he imagined—plus a baby to care for on his own.
When Laura offers to help Allen with baby Mollie, he jumps at the opportunity until a permanent solution can be found. She’d do anything to lend a hand to Allen and to honor her best friend’s memory. Rudy, Laura’s boyfriend, is initially supportive of her plan, but the more time Laura spends with Allen, the more jealous and frustrated Rudy seems to become.
As Laura and Allen face hardships together, their friendship takes a surprising yet comforting turn—and she discovers an attraction she’s never felt with Rudy. Would falling for Allen betray the people she cares about most, or would denying those feelings betray her heart? This latest installment in the Amish Homestead series returns us to Lancaster County, home of the beloved Riehls, where a family’s strength—and advice from a new friend—may help Laura find God’s direction.”


Series: Book #2 in the “Amish Homestead” series. Review of Book #1 Here!


Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are mention, quoted, & read; Prayers; Church going; Talks about God; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God & His will; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; Mentions of church, church going, services, sermons, hymns, ministers, & youth gatherings; Mentions of Bibles; Mentions of singing Christian children’s song; Mentions of being blessed & blessings; Mentions of sins & being sinful; A couple mentions of Christian novels;A mention of praising God; A mention of a Christian man.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘shut up’ and two ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm & eye rolling; A sudden death & seeing another throw up (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a sudden death, illnesses, & throwing up (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of an accident & death; Mentions of pain, injuries, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of lies/fibs & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of car accidents & injuries.


Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, a head kiss, a not-detailed kiss, a border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kiss, and a semi-detailed kiss; Touches, Embraces, & Shivers (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Remembering touches (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Staring; Many mentions of dating, dates, boyfriends, girlfriends, break-ups, & jealousy; Mentions of reputations; A few mentions of cheating/affairs; A few mentions of touches; A couple mentions of a possible out-of-wedlock pregnancy; A couple mentions of kisses & kissing (not-detailed); A couple mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of blushes; A couple mentions of crushes; A mention of a wedding night; Love, falling in love, trying to not be in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of unmentionables.

-Laura Riehl, age 22
-Allen Lambert
P.O.V. switches between them
321 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
While this wasn’t my favorite Amy Clipston Amish book, it was a light four-star read that I enjoyed. Some readers might not like the back-and-forth of Laura and Allen’s emotions, but I thought that they were realistic. I think I would share nearly the same reactions as they did if I was in their shoes. Like other connected series, it was nice to see the couple from the first book and get hints about the third book. :)


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Zondervan) for this honest review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Room on the Porch Swing

Amy Clipston

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.


ROOM ON THE PORCH SWING is the second book in the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston. It is the story of Laura Reihl and how she is dealing with the death of her mother. Soon after that, her best friend, Savilla passes away and Laura is crushed. She is immediately worried about Savilla's husband, Allen and her baby girl, Mollie. Allen's mother in law steps in to care for Mollie as well as taking care of the house but soon she has a bad fall and winds up in the hospital.


Laura quickly steps in to help Allen even though her boyfriend Rudy is very unhappy with this. How can Laura turn her back on Allen and Mollie? They need her and soon she finds out that she needs them. Amy Clipston sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with the family dealing with all their troubles and ROOM ON THE PORCH SWING is exactly that! She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Amy Clipston book if you are a fan of the Amish genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a family can stand before it completely breaks down and splits.


ROOM ON THE PORCH SWING is a heart tugging story filled with grief, loneliness, heartbreak, and love that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once I started this heartwarming story, it was very hard to put down! Amy Clipston isn't afraid to write about subjects out of the norm as far as the Amish genre goes. When the community starts to question why Laura is sleeping over at Allen's house, Amy handled it perfectly! Oh, as a warning to the reader, keep the tissues handy and do not read the ending in a public place unless you don't mind crying in front of strangers! I'm so excited to continue with this series.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in the Amish Homestead series. I really enjoyed reading Laura and Allen's story. Less than a year after her mother's death Laura finds herself faced with the loss of another loved one. This time it's her best friend, Savilla. Savilla and Allen are a newly married couple with a newborn baby. When Savilla passes away Allen is devastated, this is where Laura comes in. Newborn baby Mollie really misses her mamm and Allen is lost without his new fraa. Allen's mother inlaw will take over caring for the baby and and do the housework but then she has a bad fall and is unable to care for the baby and house. Laura sees the need and being that the Amish all help one another when the need arises she jumps in while Allen's motherinlaw recovers. Laura and Syvilla were best friends so she's happy to help out. Laura has been in a relationship with Ruby but no marriage proposal so far. Why not? When confronted Ruby says he doesn't feel ready for marriage. When people in the community comment Laura seems like Mollie's mamm and Allen's wife she must step back and examine her relationship with Allen and his daughter. Has she overstepped her bounds and committed herself to the family too deeply ? Will Ruby get his act together and propose or are they just in the relationship because of habit not love? This can be read as a stand alone even though it'she second in a series.
Pub Date 08 May 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan Fiction through NetGalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Tiffany Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

**FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW.**

When her best friend, Sevilla, died unexpectedly six months ago, Laura Reihl vowed to make each day count. So, she should probably acknowledge that she and her longtime boyfriend, Rudy, have been growing apart and break off their relationship. But they’ve been together for several years and his friendship means the world to her. When Savilla’s widower, Allen, asks for her help taking care of his daughter, Mollie, she jumps at the chance, thinking that a change of pace may give her some perspective. Besides Allen has always been a good friend to her and he was her best friend’s husband! When she arrives at Allen’s house, she finds a man she barely recognizes. Allen is exhausted and distraught, still blaming himself for not getting Sevilla to the doctor sooner, convinced that her death was his fault. As Laura helps Allen through his grief, she finds herself remembering just how easy he is to talk to. She discovers an attraction that she’s never felt for Allen before. She can’t be falling for her best friend’s widower, can she? Wouldn’t that be a betrayal of the two people she cares about the most: Sevilla and Rudy? But, if she denies her feelings, won’t she be betraying herself?

This was yet another of Amy Clipston’s sweet stories about the sweet families in The Amish Homestead series. We’ve already seen them deal with tragedy when the Reihl family lost their mother, unexpectedly, in an accident. This book picks up several months later and the two families are even closer. They’re still mourning but handling things. Tragedy struck quickly and unexpectedly this time with the loss of Savilla. This book deals with some heavy subjects like second chances at love and being able to move on. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters even better and really feel like she matched Laura and Allen together perfectly. I’d love to see Rudy find someone, as well as Mark. I know I’m alrea looking forward to reading the next book, as Amy Clipston is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors. I’m just flat out addicted to her writing!

[Kristi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started reading this book on my lunch break and the opening scene was so intense and I was so interested in it I was almost late going back to work. (That's not really a bad thing though, right?) I couldn't wait to get home to dive into the story again. However, once I was able to get back to the story I found that it had lost that spark I found it in earlier. I found the story to be predictable and nothing really surprised me on the journey to the end.

Laura was a caring character and I liked that she wanted to help out her deceased friend by taking care of her infant daughter. Taking care of the daughter leads to taking care of the baby's dad and it's easy to see where this story is headed. There isn't a lot of drama or dramatic events but just the day-in and day-out lives of the widower, the friend, and the baby. I feel like there should have been more interaction and conflict between Rudy and Laura. There never really seemed to be a bond between the two that made me care if they stayed together or not. A bright spot in the story is Laura's twin, Mark. He added charm and life to the story and I can't wait to read his story. It should be interesting as he is quite the charmer!

Even though I didn't love this story I still love Amy's writing. She has that ability to pull readers into a story and make them a part of it. Her descriptions made the story come alive and made it easy to picture things as they happened. Amy Clipston is one of my favorite authors and I can't wait to read her next book.

I received a free copy from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.

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

I'm so excited to be back on the Homestead with another amazing hit from the incredibly talented hands of Amish author, Amy Clipston. She is one of my top authors when it comes to writing Amish novels and she has once again managed to completely capture my heart and my soul with these beautifully created characters and this page turning plot line.

Instantly, I'm drawn to Allen. Bless him, from the start, I had tears in my eyes and I wanted to wrap my arms around him and tell him God's in control and all will work out. He was wonderfully chiseled, wonderfully life-like and I fell in love with him instantly. Laura's character was wonderful, as well, and I was so happy she was there in a tragic time! She really made the story pop. And sweet Mollie......oh sweet Mollie. A little character that was a perfect addition (not that I think that because of our names, though spelled differently, being the same!). These characters, while suffering from tragic events, were characters that became a part of me, wholly, like family.

I highly recommend this 5 star addition to the Amish Homestead series. You'll be instantly captivated, turning page after page, long into the night. This book is emotional, yet full of God's grace, God's timing and characters that you'll want to invite to your own porch swing and sip tea and visit with until the sun sets on the horizon. Ms. Clipston, you've done it again and I can't sign praises high enough for another hit! 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.*

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story also deals with heartache and blame but also healing.

In this second book in An Amish Homestead series, I enjoyed reading about healing and forgiveness taking root in the lives of Kayla Dienner and Jamie Riehl.

Heartache was once again coming to the Riehl home though. Jamie’s sister Laura lost her best friend, Savilla Lambert when she suddenly became very ill one night. By the time Savilla’s husband Allen heard her calling his name in the middle of the night and got her to the hospital, it wasn’t long before she passed away leaving behind her husband of only a couple of years and a baby girl not even one-year-old. Allen blamed himself for not hearing Savilla’s calls sooner. She was only twenty-two and she was gone. They didn’t have enough time together. Mollie wasn’t even one yet and she was motherless. How could he have not known his wife needed him? The blame, grief, and being a single father to a baby girl were hard on Allen.

Read Allen’s story. How Laura stepped in to care for her best friends’ baby girl. How she loved little Mollie. Laura’s boyfriend Rudy was constantly accusing her of stepping into Savilla’s shoes in the Lambert household. Did she put up with his accusations? They’d been a couple for a long time although he never mentioned marriage. Does Allen forgive himself and allow healing to take place?

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet story that will pull on your heartstrings starting on page one. The characters are relatable and baby Mollie is adorable. When Allen Lambert becomes a widow and his mother-in-law takes a fall, he is in desperate need of help with little Mollie. Allen’s late wife, Savilla, was Laura Riehl’s best friend so she decides, with her family’s support, to help Allen until Irma Mae gets back on her feet. Laura doesn’t inform her boyfriend, Rudy Swarey, of her decision. Their main problem is communication and commitment. Will Rudy finally step up and be ready to make a commitment to Laura? Is Laura getting too attached to Allen and baby Mollie? Is their special friendship blossoming and growing into love? During one of their conversations on Allen’s front porch, Allen tells Laura, “there’s room on the porch swing for you”. After losing the love of his life, is Allen ready to tell Laura, “there’s room in my heart for you”? Author Amy Clipston writes with passion inviting you in to be a part of her stories. I think this is a great book to add to your stash!
I was provided a complimentary copy from NetGalley. The opinions are my own.

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite books by Amy Clipston. The storyline is one of pure selflessness from family and friends as they help newly widowed, Allen care for his infant daughter. I expected that the Amish community would in fact do just that, what I didn’t expect was Laura giving of her time so freely and putting Allen and his daughter, Mollie’s needs before her own.

I loved that Laura treasured her friendship with Savilla, her deceased friend and Allen’s wife. As the story unfolded, I started to see how much Savilla meant to the characters and how much friendships play an important part in the community. I also started to see that Rudy just wasn’t a person that has too much consideration for other people’s feelings. I’m interested to see if he’ll be the next book in the series.

The relationship between Laura and Allen seemed natural which was something that I really liked and I loved Mollie.
Overall, I found the story both heartbreaking and heartwarming. The characters are endearing and will cross my mind occasionally.

I received a copy from the publisher and was not required to write a give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this sweet Amish story, and I loved that baby, Mollie, and her trying to say Laura.
There is a lot of heart break here, and we are there when Allen loses his young wife, and Mollie her Mom. We relive the death of Laura’s mom, when she fell down the stairs, and with all this grief we follow these folks as they try to put their lives back together and live their faith.
This book has so many heartwarming moments and rebirth of ones lives and faith to continue despite all that has happened. Of course, there is this sweet baby and those that love her, a bit of romance, and a wedding to plan for. This is the second book in this series, and can be read alone, the author does supply a lot of information to keep you up to date, but you don’t want to miss the first one.

I receive this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet and special addition to the Amish Homestead series. Room on the Porch Swing is book two in the series, but can easily be read as a stand alone novel.

I absolutely loved these two main characters. Allen had such a love for his daughter, Mollie, and his late wife, Savilla. And he was just a great guy, capable of enormous caring. Laura was a precious soul, whose love for her late best friend carried over into compassion and true friendship for Allen and Mollie. I loved watching these two friends fall for each other. It was natural and very well-written.

I have enjoyed both books in this series so much, and anxiously await book three.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I think author Amy Clipston can’t write a better book, here comes Room on the Porch Swing. I read it in two days, only because I had to go to work. Seriously, I couldn’t put this book down.

This heartwarming story deals with some of the heavy stuff of life. Loss of a spouse, grief, insecurity; things that aren’t fun but are real. And through it all is God; forgiveness, compassion, and love. Second chances.

The characters are so well written that they come to life as the story plays out. Written with such depth of emotion you’ll probably shed a few tears, gasp, and laugh. I really would love to go visit these people. I’m sure we’d be friends. I highly recommend reading this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Room on the Porch Swing is a good second installment to Amy Clipston’s series, Amish Homestead. I enjoyed the first book of the series, A Place at Our Table, but enjoyed this one so much more. Laura’s story starts off with heartbreak and turmoil. I had a hard time putting the book down because I wanted to know where her heart would go next. So many readers would find it relatable and be inspired by it. I give Room on the Porch Swing a full five stars.

Highly recommended

I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review was 100% my honest opinion.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yet another adorable Amish read from Amy Clipston. Her stories have so much heartbreak and sadness in them, but they also have a hopeful tone and a happy ending.

I liked both Allen and Laura. Little Mollie was really sweet as well. I could sympathize with both Laura and Rudy. They each had valid points about their relationship.

I also enjoyed seeing the couple from the first book together and happy.

Overall a cute and sweet romance. I can’t wait to read the next installment in November.

[Karen · Rating 2 out of 5]

So predictable. The main characters appeared to be clueless. Their behavior and situations were inappropriate and they could not or just did not admit it. I am not a fan of Amish novels to begin with and this story just solidified my opinion.

[Dawn Wells · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an amazing book and so relatable. It was a true good read. It has grief, heartbreak, loneliness and discovery, friendship and love.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was by far Amy's nest book to date. I loved this love story. Such a sweet romance. I can't wait to get my hands on book two in An Amish Homestead series.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Laura is such a sweetheart, and loves taking care of baby Mollie. She and Allen grieve Savilla together and focus on the care of Mollie, who requires extra comfort as she is going through teething. Contrary to the book synopsis, Laura is not thinking about breaking up with Rudy, and they make extra attempts throughout the book to stay connected despite Rudy's frustrations that she is spending too much time at Allen's home. They have all been friends for years, and Laura finds comfort in her friendships.

Laura finds joy and purpose in her job caring for Mollie and making sure Allen takes care of himself. It's a natural progression as they begin to be attracted to one another, connecting on a deeper level and understanding the changes in each other. I didn't understand why she kept trying to make things work with Rudy when she knew that they didn't have anything in common anymore and didn't act like a caring couple. After some conflict and drama, it was good to see them finally come to terms with the inevitable.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Debi Stout · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a book blogger with the Fiction Guild's Elite Reader Program, and often I receive books that my mother and I love to read. Today's book is a book by one of my mother's favorite authors, Amy Clipston, and since she had already read and reported on the first book in this series back in January of this year (see review HERE), I knew she was eager to read this book too.  Here's what my mom had to say:

"Room on the Porch Swing is the second and final book of the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston.  This is a touching sweet story that continues with some of the same real created characters from book one, A Place At Our Table.  This story, Room on the Porch Swing, begins where book one ends, but is still a great standalone story as well. The story is an emotional one dealing with life’s heavy situations such as grief and loss.  The story also offers second chances.

Laura Reinl lost her mother less than a year ago.  She is sad, feeling alone and heartbroken and trying to heal when unexpectedly, her best friend Savilla dies leaving behind her husband, Allen and their two-month old daughter, Mollie.  Because Savilla was like a sister to her, Laura is crushed that she has lost her best friend. Savilla and her husband were newlyweds when she died, having only been married for one year, and Allen is devastated.  Savilla’s mother, Irma Mae, is also feeling the pain of the tragic loss of her daughter but she offers to help Allen take care of baby Mollie and help him by doing the housework. Allen owns his own business repairing and selling buggies and needs to return to the shop. Unfortunately Irma Mae has an accident when she falls and breaks her leg and hip. She must have surgery and rehabilitation for several months to completely recover and learn to walk again.

Laura innocently offers to help Allen by being a nanny for baby Mollie as Irma Mae is unable to do so.  While Laura’s boyfriend, Rudy, is supportive of her plan in the beginning, he quickly becomes unhappy, jealous, and angry.  Rudy and Laura have been in a relationship for over four years but Rudy doesn't offer Laura a marriage proposal in all that time saying he doesn't feel ready.  Laura wonders if what she and Rudy share is even love or simply just a habit.  After working for Allen for several months, Laura finds herself starting to have feelings for Allen. She is Rudy’s girlfriend but cannot turn her back on Allen and baby Mollie.

Allen needs Laura and soon Laura needs Allen and Mollie. Their community is talking and they feel that Laura seems like Mollie’s mother and Allen’s wife, which causes her to examine their relationship.  Has she overstepped her boundaries? Will Rudy propose?

Amy Clipston knows how to make the reader feel like part of the family.  You want to help. You feel all the pain they are dealing with. I always enjoyed reading anything written by Amy Clipston, she is one of my favorite authors, but this book is the best!!  I’m looking forward to reading her next book."

We received a paperback copy of this book without cost from the publisher through The Fiction Guild, a Thomas Nelson/Zondervan Elite Reader book review bloggers program. We were not required to write a positive review. The opinions we have expressed are my own or my mother, Gloria's. 

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Room on the Porch Swing by Amy Clipston is An Amish Homestead Novel. Laura Riehl lives in Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania where her best friend, Savilla Lambert has passed away. It has been less than a year since Laura’s mother died and now her best friend passes after a quick illness. Allen Lambert and Savilla were married such a short time and now he is a widower with a baby girl to raise. The following summer, Irma Mae falls in Allen’s kitchen and her injuries require surgery. Irma Mae, Savilla’s mother, has been Mollie’s caretaker and now Allen must find someone to watch her while he is working. Laura offers to care for Mollie until Irma Mae recovers. Allen and Laura soon discover that they can talk truthfully (open and honestly) to each other. They find their chats on the porch swing helpful and comforting. Rudy, Laura’s beau, is not happy with the time she is spending at Allen’s home and he becomes resentful. As time passes, Laura becomes comfortable with caring for Mollie and her feelings for Allen begin to change. But she has been dating Rudy for four years and is not sure she should give up on their relationship. The time is approaching when Laura will need to make a choice.

Room on the Porch Swing takes us back to Bird-in-Hand and the Riehl family. It was nice to catch up with Jamie and Kayla from A Place at Our Table along with Mark (Laura’s twin) and Cindy (the youngest Riehl). While Room on the Porch Swing is part of a series, it can be read alone (but why would you want to miss out on A Place at Our Table). Change is in the air and Laura is not ready for it. Room on the Porch Swing is an emotional book as Laura and Allen deal with their grief. Every person handles grief in a different way as we see in this novel. Their romance is sweet and progresses slowly. It is not something Laura or Allen are looking for or expect. I thought Room on the Porch Swing was well-written and engaging. My attention was captured from the very beginning and it was held throughout. Laura and Allen are great characters. I thought they were well-developed and perfect for this story. While Rudy was needed for the story, I had many unkind thoughts regarding him. I did not like how he was using Laura and then grew resentful of the time she spent at the Lambert home caring for Mollie (Rudy would go a week without contacting Laura). I like how the faith elements are woven into the story (especially the importance of prayer). We need to remember that things happen in God’s timing, not ours. There is a reason for the events that happen in our lives (tragedy, heartbreak). We must be open to change and be prepared (open/accepting) for what will happen next. Room on the Porch Swing contains hope, grief, joy, heartbreak, faith, and more. It is a heartwarming novel that will have you laughing, crying, and sighing (a happy one at the end). Sit down for a spell in a comfy chair and spend some time with Room on the Porch Swing.

[Hanne · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well. Honestly, I'm surprised that this was a book written by Amy Clipston: her books are usually less cliche than this? By the time I was two chapters in, I had essentially predicted the ending of the book, and the rest of the book was a drag: I thought it was never going to end.

Honestly, the only bright spot about the entire book was Mollie: she was a darling little thing and she was so cute! I enjoyed seeing her grow up and learn how to walk and talk and she was adorable!

I don't know if it's because I've already read enough of Clipston's books to predict what was going on (the timeline basically followed the same ones as the ones in the Amish Heirloom series, the only other books by her I've read), or because it really was that flat, but this story really had no life for me. Her writing style is superb: she is able to draw readers into the scene and really bring it to life, but I really did not see the point of the entire book.

Laura and Rudy's relationship really just felt lifeless (which was the point), but it felt simply frustrating because it kept dragging on. The relationships between the family was also weird; usually there is a lot more camaraderie between the families in these books and it just felt not there this time.

The descriptions of scenes was also a little too . . . much? The descriptions of "falling in love" not only mirrored EVERY SINGLE OTHER falling in love scene ever, but also seemed unwarranted and extra. In addition, some of what Laura did/felt towards Allen just felt inappropriate (and I am nowhere as conservative as the Amish should be!)

Overall, this book, while I am loathe to say was useless, was one that I was glad I finished. The storyline fell very flat for me, and I felt like it would have worked a lot better as a short story.

My Ranking-
1/10

Things liked-
Mollie! She was a darling little thing

Things disliked-
You mean, aside from the fact that I PREDICTED THE ENTIRE BOOK?
A lot of [thoUGHTS]
Honestly, it was much too long? I wanted the book to be oVER ALREADY
Inappropriate guy/girl scenarios
Kind of lack of family? or at least, a disconnected family?
Would have worked a lot better as a short story
The same storyline was basically the same thing as the Amish Heirloom series
Despite the story seeming long, the love still seemed to move way too fast
I didn't like the character of Laura in general? She seemed to forward at times and then was baffled by where the feelings came from? I didn't really get it?

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review; I was not required to write a positive review.

This review first appeared on https://rockandminerals4him.wordpress...

[Gina Holder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Change can be scary. If you’re like me, you have a conflicting relationship with change. You cringe at monotony—can’t imagine doing the same thing or living in the same place for years and years, but at the same time you can’t imagine moving away from the people you care about or giving up a job you love—or throwing out your firstborn’s old ragged teddy bear. No matter how you feel about changed, there are certain changes no one desires to face—the lose of a loved one.
And that’s where we find our characters in “Room on the Porch Swing.” Laura and Allen have both come face to face with the most frightening change of all. Laura lost her mother and Allen—his wife. Both sudden deaths. These two bleeding hearts come together over one common goal. Little Mollie Faith needs someone to care for her. And Laura just wants to help. Savilla was her best friend and she’d do anything for her. And without considering the consequences, she does.
But Laura’s boyfriend Rudy is not happy that his girlfriend is spending so much time with another man, even spending the night at his house. In a way I don’t blame him for getting jealous, but I will agree that Laura definitely deserved better.
Room on the Porch Swing is a beautiful Amish love story about hope and healing after facing a tragedy. It’s about finding love and support from those God has placed in your life. It’s about accepting his will in all things and opening your heart to the next step. I enjoyed this book. It’s about wanting “God’s best” and not accepting “good enough.” Come with Allen and Laura as they seek faith to overcome the heartache they carry and move forward into the beautiful future God has prepared for them.
My favorite quote from the book is, “We can’t allow ourselves to question God’s plans for us or blame ourselves for what’s not in our control. We all know God is in control. He has the best plan for our lives because it’s his plan.”

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

ROOM ON THE PORCH SWING is the second book in the Amish Homestead series by Amy Clipston and I enjoyed it more than the first. It is the story of Laura Reihl, and how she is dealing with grief. She lost her mother at the end of the last book, and her best friend, Savilla, dies tragically with a virus that caused her heart to stop. Savilla had been married for a short time and left behind her young husband, Alan and months old daughter, Mollie. When Savilla's mother, who is taking care of Mollie and the house has an accident and ends up in the hospital, Laura steps in to help her friend's widower. Laura's boyfriend of four years, Rudy, is not happy about the situation and doesn't like how it will look to others. Will Laura and Rudy ever get married? How will Laura fight the feelings towards Alan that are budding in her heart?

Amy Clipston does a wonderful job of making you feel present in the story. The emotions and struggles are so real, in fact, many readers have probably experienced similar situations. As I read the book, I felt my emotions going up and down. I wanted things to turn out for Laura and kept telling her that Rudy was not ready for a commitment. Alan seemed like the perfect man. He loved and was devoted to his daughter, he was caring and did not want anyone to get the wrong idea about Laura. He was very astute about other's feelings and tried to help when he could. The rest of Laura's family was present and again, I felt like I was meeting up with old friends. They are also dealing with things and they seem to be working out. The power of prayer and their beliefs came through strongly, but did not overpower the story. Room on a Porch Swing is a heart tugging story filled with grief, loneliness, heartbreak, and love that will grip you right from the first page. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series. The publisher, Zondervan, generously provided me with a copy of this book to read.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Room on the Porch Swing written by Amy Clipston is the third novel in her Amish Homestead series. The author grabs her readers attention in the beginning with such a compassionate, heartwarming scene that will bring tears to your eyes. She continues these feelings through out the entire book . The storyline is absolutely amazing. The author as a wonderful writing ability that allows the reader to take part in the story.

The characters are described with great detail and makes each one appear unique not only in appearance but also their personalities. I felt great compassion for Laura and Allen because of the loss they have each experienced. I really enjoyed getting to know Molly and watch her grow. Every time she learned something new I felt the same joy as the characters. The author has created the right mix with her characters.

The cover for this novel definitely draws your attention and it sets the scene for the entire story. The swing plays an important role through out the story. Many important conversations take place on this swing. The author was able to describe the feelings during these conversations to let her readers feel the heartwarming friendship that was building between Allen and Laura.

I was given a complimentary eBook copy of this book by Netgalley to read and review. I was never approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars because the author has written a very special story. All opinions and statements expressed are strictly my own based on this amazing story.

Congratulations to Amy Clipston on writing another outstanding story for her readers to enjoy. I will be highly recommending this book to all those who love the Amish genre. I will also be watching for more amazing books by this author in the future.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this is book 2 in the Amish Homestead series, I did not have any trouble reading it as a stand alone due to the background provided by the author in the forenotes. I will go back and read book 1 though.

Amish buggy maker Allen Lambert has lost his young wife to death and is left to raise his months old daughter by himself. His mother in law, Irma Mae, has been caring for Molly; but an accident has incapacitated her. His wife's best friend, Laura, has offered to step in and be housekeeper and Nanny until Irma Mae recovers from her broken hip and leg. Allen's mind may not be ready to move forward, but his heart has a different idea. Laura is in a relationship with Rudy that has gone nowhere in 4 years. Will sparks fly between these two Amish or will their pasts hold them back?

I was an avid reader of Amish fiction when it first became popular. But after reading it for many years, I quit because I found they had all become very formulaic. But I applaud Clipston for developing a plot that is very different from the normal run-of-the-mill Amish fiction. The plot was predictable but had enough twists and turns to make this a different kind of Amish fiction.

The characters were well developed. Laura was a very caring person and showed her concern for both Allen and Mollie in everyday life and activities. Allen was a devoted father and a hardworker. Rudy was both immature, somewhat controlling, and self-absorbed as he showed little concern for Laura in the difficulties she faced. I really was exasperated when he conned his mother into going to the bishop when Laura wouldn't bend to his will.

An enjoyable Amish read if you like Amish fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

[kerrycat · Rating 4 out of 5]

(reviewed on Romantic Times Book Reviews, 4 stars: https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...)

This heartbreaking series continues to take a fearlessly honest look at grief, as hopelessness threatens to steal what happiness Allen has treasured within his marriage and recent fatherhood. Clipston takes these feelings seriously without sugarcoating any aspect of the mourning process, allowing her characters to make their painful but ultimately joyous journey back to love and faith. Readers who have made this tough and ongoing pilgrimage themselves will appreciate the author’s realistic portrayal of coming to terms with loss in order to continue living with hope and happiness.

Laura doesn’t know how to help her best friend’s widower, Allen, as they both struggle to accept Savilla’s untimely and shocking death, focusing instead on caring for the couple’s baby daughter, Mollie. Her boyfriend Rudy is suspicious of the time she spends with Allen and Mollie, as well as the concern Laura continues to express for Allen. Taking over a wife’s duties and spending the night to care for Mollie, Laura begins to realize her feelings for Allen have changed, but how is true love supposed to feel? The depth of her care for him exceeds her affection for Rudy, who still hasn’t made a commitment to her, but Allen has distanced himself, and Laura isn’t sure he will ever return her feelings. Can the two of them find a way to make a life together, honoring Savilla’s memory while accepting the happiness they deserve?

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Amish Homestead book 2, Room on the Porch Swing, Laura Reihl is mourning the loss of her best friend, Sevilla. When Sevilla’s widower, Allen, asked for help with their young daughter, Mollie, she can’t say yes fast enough. Allen, Sevilla, Laura, and her longtime boyfriend, Rudy, have been friends for several years and she would do anything to help her friend out. Although she yearns to help Allen cope with Sevilla’s passing, she can’t see her own relationship issues. She and Rudy have been growing apart and she hates to break off their relationship because they have been together four years.

Allen is exhausted and still blames himself for not getting Sevilla to the doctor sooner, convinced that her death was his fault. As she talks to Allen and helps him with Mollie and his own grief, Laura soon discovers she is falling for her best friend’s widow.

Amy Clipston has written another captivating story. Laura is no stranger to loss as in the first Amish Homestead book, she lost her mother to an accident. This book touches on grief and coping with loss, as well as, second chances.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from netgalley and Zondervan Fiction in return for my honest opinion of the book. All opinions and statements expressed are strictly my own.

[Zac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Journey with me into the pages of Room on the Porch Swing by Amy Clipston.

Room on the Porch Swing was a well-written story with the perfect amount of complexities to create tension and a believable storyline. Laura Reihl has been in a relationship with Rudy, but their relationship doesn't have the sparks of true love.

Savilla's widower, Allen, needs help with the baby Savilla has left behind. He asks Laura to take care of the baby. Since Savilla's death, Allen is different from who he was before. Rudy is Allen's best friend, but as Laura begins to spend more and more time with Allen's baby, division comes between Laura and Rudy.

One thing I love about this series is the tension Amy creates in the story. It was so real that I felt it as I read the story. In one way I wanted the two to talk and work things out and then, on the other hand, I felt like they weren't meant for each other. I also enjoyed Mark in this story. He has an attitude, but there is something about him that I like.

This series is becoming one of my favorite Amish Fiction ones and I'm excited for the next book to release!

*I received a free copy of this product to facilitate this post, however you, my readers, come first and all opinions are my own.

[Robbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my! Amy Clipston gets the waterworks going in the first chapter, and it continues into the second chapter, so be sure to have your Kleenex ready. However, DON’T let this stop you from reading Room on the Porch Swing!

Clipston writes a story of tragedy with keen insights and observations. She brings just the right notes of loss, despair and healing to the novel.

I felt for each of the characters and their struggles; my heart especially broke for little baby Mollie. I cheered for some people, who exhibited kindness and compassion, and booed at others while wondering how they could be so blind, indifferent and callous.

I also relished seeing more of the individuals from A Place at Our Table, and even though Room on the Porch Swing is the second in the series, it works well as a standalone.

I have always enjoyed the books Amy Clipston writes. She doesn’t shy away from difficult, stressful situations and weaves wondrous tales of love, redemption and Biblical values without being didactic.

Room on the Porch Swing is Amy Clipston’s second novel in the Amish Homestead series.

I received this book from NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story by Amy Clipston. I love the fact that the characters from the first book in the series, “A Place at Our Table”, all appear in this book and that their stories all continue. And I absolutely love the fact that there is a “Cindy” in this series. I’m Amish if only in a book. Ha! Heartache plays a major part in the plot, and I went through a few tissues while reading this story. I wish I could have smacked Rudy upside his head – what a selfish, no good person. But as usual in Amy’s stories, love prevails in the end, and we get that warm fuzzy feeling we all love to feel.

I highly recommend this story. You don’t have to read the first book in the series, but I think you should, so you get a better feel of the Riehl family and learn more about who’s who. I can’t wait for the next book in Amy’s Amish Homestead series. And a little bird told me there will be a book all about me in this series, oh I mean Cindy Riehl, too. Now that is something to look forward to. Woot woot!