A Christmas Home

The Promise Glen #1

by Marta Perry

National bestselling author Marta Perry captures the spirit of Christmas in this first novel of her all new series set in the quaint Amish community of Promise Glen.

After ten years spent keeping house and raising her younger siblings, Sarah Yoder returns home to Promise Glen determined to make a fresh start. Her new job with neighbor Noah Raber's furniture business seems promising—until she and the woodworker clash over everything from the best way to reach new costumers to how to raise his mischievous six-year-old twin boys.

Though Sarah longs for a home of her own, she fights the appeal of this ready-made family, resolved to maintain a professional distance. But when she and Noah both agree to help with the school's annual Christmas program, Sarah finds her heart touched by the motherless boys and Noah's quiet strength. Thrown together at work and at the school, their feelings continue to grow, and Sarah struggles to keep Noah at arms' length.

Loving Noah may seem impossible, but with faith, love, and a little help from their close-knit community, there may yet be a Christmas home for them both.

Genres: Christmas, Amish, Romance, Amish Fiction, Christian Fiction, Audiobook, Fiction

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2019

About the author

Marta Perry is a Pennsylvania-based author of over 35 novels, many of them inspirational romances. She uses her rural Pennsylvania life and her Pennsylvania Dutch heritage in writing her books, especially in her Pleasant Valley Amish series for Berkley Books and her new Amish-set suspense series for HQN Books.

Marta and her husband live in a centuries-old farmhouse in a quiet central Pennsylvania valley. They have three grown children and six beautiful grandchildren, and when she's not busy writing her next book, she's usually trying to keep up with her gardening, baking for church events, or visiting those beautiful grandkids.

Reviews

[Jennifer ~ TarHeelReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I needed a little break from the 90 degree heat and read this charming Christmas book, first in a new series from Marta Perry. I don’t often read books set in Amish country, but so many of my friends love them. More and more I can see why. Sarah has just returned home to Promise Glen for a fresh start. She works for Noah, the owner of a furniture business. The two find themselves clashing with each other though.

Something magical happens between Noah and Sarah when they agree to plan the annual Christmas program. This book is easy reading and so heartwarming. I love the way the community got behind Sarah and Noah’s relationship, loving seeing the two of them together. A quick read and perfect for the upcoming holiday season.

I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Mackenzie - PhDiva Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Filled with family, friends, love, faith, and magical winter days, this is a charming book. I really enjoyed the setting in Amish country, since this isn’t a setting I have read much about. It really transported me into a different place while reading it!

And of course, there is a love interest Noah Raber who is a man that is good with his hands, crafting beautiful furniture. Don’t we all kind of fall a bit for someone who is able to create with their hands??? When Sarah Yoder returns home and is asked to help Noah with his business, it seems like things might be coming together for a great love story. But things are so simple or predictable. There is a pretty big obstacle in the way of Noah and Sarah developing a relationship, and it’s not a simple one.

Noah is the father to a pair of rambunctious twins, whose mother mysteriously disappeared. Through an exploration of faith, integrity, and following your heart, we see their story unfold. This was a charming story and one that made me think a lot about the compass that we dedicate to guide us through life, and what happens when life doesn’t stay on course.

There’s also a section at the back with some Amish recipes and traditions that I thought was a cute addition. A sweet book that will give you all the right cozy winter feels!

Thank you to Berkley for my copy. Opinions are my own.

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Janie and Noah Raber, Amish married couple with new born twin boys. To the entire Amish community of Promise Glen the couple seemed to be happily married and enjoying their twin sons, Matthew and Mark. That is until Janie disappeared one day without a trace. Noah came in, from his furniture shop, for lunch and heard the babies crying from upstairs in their bedroom. Where was Janie? All her clothes were still in the closet. For days the community searched for her and still she was missing.
Sarah Yoder's mother died young leaving a motherless family behind with their Daadi. Sarah being the oldest child finds her self filling in for her mother. Caring for her brothers and sisters. Sacrificing her life to keep the family together. Then her father decided to move and leave all that's familiar in Promise Glen. Ten years later and after many moves Sarah has had enough. With her siblings all grown up and married with families of their own Sarah moves back home to Promise Glen.
Sarah gets a job working as Noahs book keeper for his business. Noah is a man of little words and would rather work alone. His business records are a mess and his filing system is the top of his desk. Layers and layers of invoices and recites. He has been unsociable for the past five years and has a chip on his shoulders against his wife who ran off leaving him and her two sons . Amish people don't believe in divorce so literally he is still married and unable to go on with his life. Janie is out there somewhere but life goes on. What has Sarah got herself into excepting this book keeping job with this troubled quiet disagreeable man?
A Christmas Home starts a new series for Marta Perry. Each year I choose a writer that I'd like to dedicate more time to reading their books. This year it was Marta Perry. I thought her latest release was very Christmassy. It's about families and not giving up on the hurting ones we love. I thought the twins Matthew and Mark were very cute. Identical but personalities that were so different in every way. The back of the book contains a Pennsylvania Dutch glossary, Amish recipes, Amish Christmas Customs and an excerpt from Naomi's Christmas book seven of the Pleasant Valley series.
If you are a fan of Amish fiction, Christian Fiction or love Marta Perry's books, A Christmas Home is for you. I truly enjoyed reading it and I know you would too.
I borrowed a paperback copy from the local library. A review was not requested. All comments and opinions expressed and shared here are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

A Christmas Home is everything you want in a Christmas read, Amish or not. Snowy days, family, faith, friends, yummy food, adorable kids, falling in love. The fact that it is set in Amish country adds even more charm to this heartwarming story.

Sarah Yoder is a tenderhearted young woman with an intuitive wisdom and a nurturing heart. This makes her the perfect choice to step in and help Noah Raber with the business side of his furniture side – but an even more perfect choice to capture his heart – and that of his precocious (and motherless) twin boys. The story isn’t as predictable as you might guess, though – one pretty insurmountable obstacle stands in their way and it’s a doozy. I loved that Noah and Sarah were both people of strong faith and integrity but also that they struggled realistically with the complications of life and their growing feelings for each other.

I thought I knew how it would probably play out – and I was right – but the process of getting there kept me second guessing my initial predictions. Along the way, I fell in love with all of them – Sarah, her grandmother, her cousin & his young family, Noah, his boys (especially tenderhearted Mark), and even his parents. I’m delighted that this is a series because I hope to see glimpses of all of the above in future books, too.

Perry’s writing is engaging and immediately draws you in to the setting, the plot, and the characters. If you’ve never read one of her books before, you’ll readily see why she’s such a popular writer. I never felt that the story lagged or that my attention waned – especially because I wanted to see how this potential romance was going to be possible. It’s a fairly quick read, perfect for a wintry evening (or a warm late autumn night that you wish were wintry) or weekend.

Bottom Line: Grab a mug of your favorite hot beverage and a handful of homemade cookies, and settle in for this delightful story of love, faith, and the holiday spirit. The gentle theme of knowing when to forgive, when to stand up for yourself, and when to accept help is woven organically throughout the story – along with flawed but endearing characters who win your heart. Really enjoyed this sweet romance! Looking forward to another visit to Promise Glen in the (hopefully) near future.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Christmas Home by Marta Perry is the first book in The Promise Glen Series. I always enjoy reading books from Marta Perry who has a charming writing style and relatable characters. Sarah Yoder lost her mother when she was eighteen. She has three younger siblings which meant she had to take charge of the household and raise them as well as taking care of her father. Sarah’s three siblings are now happily married and settled so she can have a life for herself. She has chosen not to join her father on his latest move. Sarah has returned home to Promise Glen, Pennsylvania to live in the grossdaadi haus with her grandmother, Etta Miller. She obtains a bookkeeping position with Noah Raber and helps to promote his furniture business. Sarah tries to resist falling for Noah and his busy twin boys because Noah is married. His wife left when the kids were babies and divorce is not an option for Amish. Can you imagine being stuck in a marriage for the rest of your life after your spouse has deserted you? I liked the characters in A Christmas Home from the insightful Etta Miller to Noah’s active twin boys, Mark and Matthew. There is a wonderful community with thoughtful, caring people as well as those who gossip. The book is well-written with steady pacing. The author’s depictions allowed me to visualize the settings and the characters. I could feel the character’s emotions in this heartwarming Christmas story. I like Christmas stories because it is a time of year when people are in better spirits and it seems that anything can happen during this magical season. The phrase I wanted to share from A Christmas Home is “You can always trust God to take care of the details.” There are recipes at the end of the book along with Amish Christmas customs. A Christmas Home is a touching tale with busy boys, furniture making fundamentals, scheming friends, bookkeeping bedlam, and family Christmas traditions.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas Home is a heartwarming story written by Marta Perry. This story deals with several types of loss, forgiveness, and second chances. The story is definitely written with style and grace. It moves along at a wonderful pace keeping the readers interest until the conclusion. The characters are very likeable and give great depth to this heartbreaking story. The author has taken great care with her characters and storyline.

Sarah Yoder, a young Amish woman, has returned home after many years following her daeds dreams in order to raise her siblings. Now her time has come to return to Promise Glen where her heart has always belonged. Making a new life for herself won't be easy but she is determined. Noah Raber is a young Amish furniture maker with twin boys. His unfolding story over his wife's mysterious departure is heartbreaking at every turn. He is stuck in limbo with no wife, no mother to his boys, and not being able to move forward and remarry. When Sarah's grossmammi sends her to Noah's to inquire about a job she is blind sided as to Noah's situation. The journey these two set out on as employer-employee is very touchy and fraught with many troubles. This story is full of emotions that have not been dealt with. I enjoyed Sarah's story immensely.

I was given an advanced copy of this amazing story to read through the author, Marta Perry. I was not under any obligation to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a fantastic story that I can highly recommend to others. This is definitely a Christmas must read.

Congratulations to Marta Perry for writing another superb Amish story full of mystery, love, and compassion for her readers enjoyment.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author gives us a young Amish woman who had to grow up early when her mother died and her younger siblings need her. She also had Dad with wanderlust, and was never able to stay in one place very long. Now she was home, at least where she began and is living with her Grandmother.
Add a struggling Amish man with twin motherless boys, and trying to run a business, and you could see where this story was going, but alas not all is at it first appears, and thus the story.
While I could figure out the end of this book, the author kept my attention and I found the read enjoyable.

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

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn't want to go home for Christmas? After a decade of being uprooted by her father's wanderlust, Sarah is ready to return to the place she thinks of as home and into the welcoming arms of her extended family -- without her father. (Or her siblings who have all settled into married life at various stopping points on their travels.) She's looking for a place to belong and that's Promise Glen -- at least the way she remembered it before her mam died and her life was upended.

Sarah is one of the most likable heroines I've ever met between the pages of a book. She's so vulnerable and hopeful, but pragmatic too. Generous and kind and outgoing. A born organizer who deftly manages situations...and people. Which kinda irks Noah even as he admires that quality in his new employee. Theirs is such a heart-tugging romance and I'm not going to tell you why -- you need to discover that on your own. I will tell you that I loved the way their relationship developed -- the rapport that builds, the desperate longing that they know must go unfulfilled. Laughter and arguments -- I don't know which made better scenes, the guarded moments or the unguarded ones.

And then there's Matty and Mark -- Noah's rambunctious twins who steal the spotlight whenever they make an appearance. More laughter and sweet heartache which means this was a blissfully emotional read for me. Just what I'm looking for in a Christmas romance.

Perry has done an exceptional job of setting up the Promise Glen series in this first book. There are agreeable...and not so agreeable...secondary characters and a wonderful sense of the Amish community and sweet hints (I think) at future heroines and maybe one hero? Crossing my fingers on that one! And the anticipation of a simple, faith and family filled Christmas shines out from every page. The author has even included a few recipes and notes on Amish Christmas customs at the end of the book which I think makes it the perfect kind of gift for the bibliophiles on your list.

[Nancy Carty Lepri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have reviewed this novel for New York Journal of Books where it will be posted the evening before the publication date.



"A Christmas Home" by Marta Perry
Berkley
October 8, 2019
10-1984803190
Inspirational Holiday Romance

Publicity Contact: NetGalley

Reviewed by Nancy Carty Lepri

Amish-raised Sarah Yoder lost her mother when she was 18, leaving her to nurture her younger siblings. She achieved her duty by protecting the children and keeping them happy though her father let no moss grow under his feet by constantly moving them to different places while he searched for employment. Now, with the youngest sibling married and settled, Sarah moves back to her beloved hometown of Promise Glen, a green valley tucked between sheltering ridges in central Pennsylvania.

Sarah’s Grossmammi welcomes her with open arms, thrilled she is back, and she settles in to live with her while her cousin Eli, his pregnant wife Ruthie, and their two-year-old daughter Mary live in the main house. Sarah is uncertain how Ruthie feels about her being there, and she insists she does not plan to take over Ruthie's domain.

Within a short time, Sarah is lucky to find employment with Noah Raber, a neighbor, and custom furniture maker. Though Noah is a master craftsman, he knows nothing about business, so Sarah resolves to get his books in order. Their relationship is strained in the beginning for Noah is introspective and reserved. Meanwhile, Sarah is more outgoing, but at first, she keeps to herself so as not to rattle him.

Mark and Matty, Noah's six-year-old twins, melt Sarah's heart, and she makes a concerted effort to connect with them. Janie, their mammi and Noah's wife left him and the boys when they were babies. Though Sarah dreams of having a family of her own, she refuses to marry a man for the purpose of raising his children, which she did with her brothers and sister. Sarah desires what every woman wants—a man who loves her for herself, not as a maid and a parent. This does not concern her too much, because Noah isn't divorced, and he has no idea of Janie's whereabouts. Even if he did know, divorce is not allowed in the Amish faith.

Sarah considers Noah could attain more customers if he advertised his business, yet when she broaches the subject, he becomes angry and puts her in her place by reminding her she is just his employee. Noah does not take to "forward women," which he considers Sarah to be, but she appreciates how expensive it is to raise youngsters. She pushes the issue until he acquiesces, though she finds his indifferent manner hurtful.

After a while, Noah observes how well Sarah and his children bond, and he soon acquires a soft spot toward her, but he can do nothing about it. Sarah starts to fall in love with Noah; however, she must lock her feelings away for being together is something that can never be.

"Noah slid into her thoughts despite her determination to keep him out. Maybe that was all of a piece—her growing affection for the twins, the fierce attraction that had led them so close to an embrace, even this yearning for a child. . . .

. . . "Her grandmother rounded the table to put an arm around Sarah's waist. 'Tell me, child. You have feelings for Noah, ain't so?'

"Sarah turned her face away, unwilling to meet those wise old eyes. 'We're friends. I . . . I care about him and the boys. I know it can't go beyond that.' Please don't ask me anything else. Please don't read my heart.

"'It's hard sometimes to understand God's doing.' She gave Sarah a squeeze. 'This is one of those times. All we can do is trust His plan.'"

While Sarah spends more time with Noah and his boys, her feelings for them grow as her heart breaks. Will she ever find true love, happiness, and a life with children of her own?

A Christmas Home is the first installation in The Promise Glen Series. As with Perry's other inspirational novels, A Christmas Home employs the loving bond of family and community along with longing and heartache, yet a strong trust in God that things will all work out in the end. This book also Includes some mouth-watering recipes, a glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch words and phrases, and information about Amish Christmas customs, making this a heartwarming read.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah and Noah’s story was a wonderful tale of two people struggling with the restrictions placed upon them by their religious community and family needs in A Christmas Home by Marta Perry, book one in The Promise Glen series. After the death of her mother, Sarah Yoder spent ten years keeping house and raising her younger siblings, following the wanderlust of their father. When she returns home to Promise Glen she is ready to make a life of her own. Sarah’s new job is with her neighbor, Noah Raber’s furniture business. Noah is the single father of six-year old twin boys. His young wife ran away, abandoning their family, looking for an adventure. There is no divorce in the Amish community, so Noah is married, but not; single, but not; at loose ends. He needs Sarah’s assistance in organizing his business but acts resentful. The two clash over everything from the arrangement of the work space, how to reach new costumers, or how to raise his mischievous twin boys. Despite longing for her own home, Sarah is conflicted with her feelings toward this ready-made family and especially Noah. When these two are forced to work together on the Christmas pageant, their feelings grow; forcing them to avoid being alone. Sarah knows that loving Noah will not end with a happy ending, but with faith, love, some help from their close-knit community, and maybe some Christmas magic, there might yet be a Christmas home for them both.

I felt sympathetic toward Sarah and Noah as both were in difficult spots. Noah was not a free man, able to pursue his interest in Sarah. As these two worked together, Noah recognized the strengths, kindness, and problem-solving skills that Sarah possessed; traits which made her perfect for him and his sons. Sarah wanted to be loved. Maybe more than that, needed to be loved and appreciated for who she was.

Ms. Perry wrote a sweet love story that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with emotions, attraction, chemistry, wonderful dialogue, and endearing characters in an interesting Amish community, all helping Sarah and Noah find a way to their own Christmas home. I highly recommend A Christmas Home to other readers and look forward to future books in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet Christmas romance


My rating is 4.5 stars

I truly can’t help it. Honestly, I didn’t try very hard. I completely fell in love with Mark!

You don’t need to re-read the synopsis, you didn’t miss anything there. The hero’s name really is Noah. And there isn’t another guy in the picture for Sarah. Unless you count Matty and Mark, Noah’s adorable sons. Matthew is cute with his “boy-sterous” energy and outgoing personality but Mark is the one who captured my heart. Took it for ransom and won’t give it back. This sensitive, shy child with his openhearted trust in Sarah. Talk about a heart-melting sweetness! Each time he leaned against Sarah, taking comfort in her kindness and understanding. . .

I was surprised to find out the reason for Noah’s boys not having a mother. It was a complication that I hadn’t expected. I don’t believe in giving spoilers so I’ll just say that it was a doozy!

I really appreciated Sarah’s take-charge-but-don’t-bulldoze-over-everyone attitude. Her heart was tender and kind, which is why she was so determined to help.

Noah had been deeply hurt and didn’t feel he had anyone to share his burdens. He struggled with anger as a result of the suppressed grief. Yet he knew how to love deeply and was an amazing father to the twins.

Read my full review at Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a 5 star read!!
A sweet, clean, and wholesome read. I think this is the true reason that I love Amish fiction. I love the closeness and they way they try and help one another out in this close knit community. I really enjoyed Martas books to fullest!! I've loved her books since I picked up her Pleasant Valley series.
Her writing style is unique and her characters are wonderful and easy to make friends with.
People talk and they always will because they're people and some just don't have anything better to do.
I loved this book for the sweet messages it has to offer.
The twins were so adorable!! I loved their enthusiasm about everything. I would love to have their energy. I especially loved their different personalities.
Sarah is delightful too!! I like her quiet strength and the way she taps to the boys like they were grownups instead of talking down to them like most adults do when they don't know how to talk to children.
I wouldn't mind having her around as a big sister. She's not as bad as Emma. I didn't like Emma at all!!
I think the one that I liked most was Noah. Like most men he really doesn't show his emotions much and he has a lot to work out.
Can he work things out with his wife's family? Can he and Sarah find a forever home? Will he be able to forgive as well?
I almost forgot! Be sure to read at the end the description of an Amish Christmas!! So very interesting and there's also some wonderful recipes too!!
I recommend that you read this book to find out. It really is a great read!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author with NO compensations received. All opinions are my own.

[Marie Buccellato · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story about never giving up and let your trust in God come first.

[Patricia Solla · Rating 4 out of 5]

A CHRISTMAS HOME by Marta Perry gives the reader an interesting insight into the Amish lifestyle. Sarah Yoder is returning to Promise Glen where she was born. Sarah has raised her younger siblings since her mother’s death when she was a very young girl. Sarah’s father has moved the family to other communities as his ‘next big thing’ philosophy dictates. All Sarah wants is a home, family and no more moving around. Wanting to be independent and encouraged by her grandmother, Sarah takes a job working for Noah Raber, who has his own furniture business. Noah has twin boys he is raising but his wife has left and is nowhere to be found. Noah is not much of a business man, he does beautiful carpentry work, but is laid back and doesn’t promote his business. Sarah takes a job doing the books for Noah and becomes involved not only with Noah and his business but also enjoys his twin boys. The author’s insight into the Amish lifestyle is very much in evidence in her writing and while using the vernacular of the Amish community does not over do it and the story is very easy to read. There’s a look at Sarah’s reintroduction to her brother and his family with whom she is going to live with which also includes her grandmother. Sarah’s character is shown to be understanding and accepting of the family hierarchy both with her brother’s family and Noah’s family. Noah and Sarah are aware of each other, but respect the dictates of the Amish community. As for the Christmas aspect of the story, I found the author’s explanation of the Amish celebration of Christmas quite informative. There is a HEA for Noah and Sarah as the story concludes with what has happened with Noah’s wife and Noah’s dealing with his grief and anger.

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Christmas Home is the first book in The Promise Glen series. Having read the next three books in the series I wanted to read this one to see where it all began. It did not disappoint and filled in some of the blanks for me. The story was heartwarming as well as heartbreaking. This is Sarah and Noah's story along with his twin sons, Matthew and Mark, who add a freshness to the story.

There are multiple storylines being woven together and Christmas and its activities play an important role. Noah makes beautiful one of a kind pieces of furniture and when Sarah returns home after ten years away she becomes his bookkeeper and more. We learn about their pasts a little at a time and while there's an attraction between they can't act on it. I liked the introduction of the various characters and their value to the story.

The emphasis on family and faith as well as friendships were themes throughout. The story has a good flow and was emotional at times. There is nice closure and a happily ever after in the offing. The Glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch Words and Phrases along with several recipes were a nice addition. The Amish Christmas Customs gave detailed information on the beliefs of the Amish and was very informative.

Ms. Perry is an author whose books I've enjoyed but not read enough of. I have added more of them to my always growing TBR pile.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was really sweet! Sarah Yoder returns home to Promise Glen and ends up working for Noah Raber - who has a "situation". Sarah also has to make certain her pregnant sister-in-law knows she's only there to help, not to take over. She soon discovers the "situation" Noah is in. It seems his very young wife left him shortly after their twin boys were born. The boys are now in kindergarten. Noah has no idea why she ran off and wonders if it is something he could've prevented. Sarah is able to catch up with friends from school and her best friend is not the school teacher. Soon Sarah is falling in love with the boys and their father - even though nothing can come of this because he is still married. Noah finally discovers where his wife is and thinks her father knew all these years and never told him. This is a huge misunderstanding that finally comes to light. A new baby, the boys' Christmas program learning to trust each other makes for a happy ending. The recipes help, too. I've already pre-ordered the nest story!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute little Christmas story all tied up in a bow. This Amish love story was a lot slower than expected despite its length but it may be because it stuck to the Christmas season. Though the Amish celebrate with an additional 2 days, one of which isn’t until January (Epiphany), so there could have been a longer timeline. However despite its slow pace the holiday spirit was alive and well!

From Christmas carols to school pageants to sleigh rides and snow, if you’re looking for Christmas it is here! Filled with family and enjoyable characters (even the most unlikeable ones) it’s a trip inside an Amish life and holiday.

Things were a little too rushed and neatly tied up at the end, despite a slight twist with Noah’s estranged wife that was explained away in a mere 2 paragraphs and therefore not a very informative explanation. But readers are given a happy ending for characters you can’t help but fall in love with (especially the children) and a Christmas season sense of joy that made me smile as I finished the final pages.

[Elaine Shorb · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Christmas Home" is a book that will tug at your heart. Sarah Yoder returns home to Promise Glen after taking care of her brothers and sisters for many years.
Sarah is ready to start anew. She moves in with her grandmother. She finds a job working for Noah Raber in his furniture shop.
Noah's wife left him after his 6 year old twins were born. Sarah will fall in love with the twins.
But, Noah and Sarah will clash over the way things are done at the shop.
You will be hooked to this book! I found that I could not put it down. Have the Kleenex handy.
I highly recommend that you read this book!
Thank you, Marta Perry, for this wonderful story!
"I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author and I was not required to post a positive review. All opinions are my own."

[Caroline Hedges · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't appreciate this was an Amish story when I received my ARC from Netgalley so I started reading with some trepidation. I soon became immersed in the story and enjoyed the mannerisms and language. It was still an old fashioned romance but purer and gentler than more modern tales with lots of sex scenes. It was full of family, community, love, kindness and understanding. Don't be fooled that it was all sweetness though, the characters had flaws like anger and guilt which made them more likeable. The ending was easy to spot because of Amish ways and belief in God but I didn't mind knowing what was to come. I enjoyed learning a little of the Amish ways and feel in love with the twins. Most of all it made me long for fresh snow and Christmas. A lovely, uncomplicated morning read.

[Mayda · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been ten long years, but Sarah has finally returned to her home community. She helped her father raise her siblings following her mother’s death, but the many moves initiated by her father leave her wanting to return to her roots, not sharing in his wanderlust. She needs a job, and connects with Noah, a woodworker, whose wife had abandoned him and their twins years before, shortly after she gave birth. It’s a lovely Christmas story, filled with interesting and well developed characters. It’s not all sunshine and happiness - there are real problems and tragedies - but it’s Christmas, so you can expect things will eventually work out somehow towards a happy ending.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thoughts: this was an interesting story of a strong-willed woman going to live with her cousin and his wife who are expecting their first baby. His wife's sisters are more strong-willed and she is needed to keep peace in the household,.. I enjoyed reading the story and getting to know the characters and seeing how they interact with one another. I also enjoyed the story of their nativity scene that they set up every Christmas. If you are looking for a good Christmas story based around the Amish you will want to read this book. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the simplicity of the Amish life, their strong faith and family life. Marta Perry had me fall in love with the characters and the story setting immediately. This story appealed to me because of the temperance of emotions. I didn’t have to worry about any sex scenes, crass language, or people backstabbing each other to get what they want. I will definitely look for the remaining books in this series and look for more books by this author. This book was a breath of fresh air.

[Justine Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas Home is a perfect read for this time of year. While Sarah Yoder does find she has romantic feelings toward her new boss Noah, the story is so much more. Sarah's life is full, with her job bookkeeping for Noah, helping her schoolteacher friend with preparations for the Christmas program, and helping at home, where her cousin's wife is about to give birth to her second child. The author even added recipes and information on Amish Christmas traditions.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful Christmas Amish story with a unique premise. I really enjoyed reading this. I read most of it in one day!

Great messages about love, forgiveness and trusting God.

Also included a section about Amish Christmas customs in the back of the book that I really appreciated too.

Some character development with Sarah's dad would have been nice but it wasn't that much of an issue for me to knock off a star.

[Susan Veach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why do I get excited about Christmas stories in September every year, even when I 'kind of know' how the story ends? Marta Perry's name promises affirmation in the same way that hearing "I love you" does, but the reader will also be challenged to consider what should be the highest standard of response to rejection, disappointment, and tragedy?

[Beverly Cvercko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful read!!
Marta Perry never disappoints.

[Kathy Aufleger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet story.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought that this was a really fun Amish Christmas read!

[Ann Haefele · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pretty thin plot.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas Home

I give this book five give stars! It was fun, emotional,dramatic and engaging. Cannot to read the next book in this series. Thanks M P