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Harvest of Hope #3
Summer's Promise
Can she leave everything she knows for love?
Summer Carson has lived near the Amish community in Paradise, Pennsylvania, all her life. Now she's following in her father's footsteps and earning her degree in agricultural science so she can continue his work helping local farmers.
In her job at the county extension office, Summer moves between the Englisch and the Amish worlds. While she sometimes finds herself speaking--and even thinking--in Pennsylvania Deitsch, the transition isn't always easy. But what has come naturally to Summer is her attraction to one of the farmers: Abram Yoder is handsome, steady, and hardworking. He's everything so many of the Englisch men she knows are not. And Summer quickly realizes that she's caught his eye as well.
Can Summer give up the comforts she's always known for a life with this Amish man? And is Abram willing to let her try?
Summer Carson has lived near the Amish community in Paradise, Pennsylvania, all her life. Now she's following in her father's footsteps and earning her degree in agricultural science so she can continue his work helping local farmers.
In her job at the county extension office, Summer moves between the Englisch and the Amish worlds. While she sometimes finds herself speaking--and even thinking--in Pennsylvania Deitsch, the transition isn't always easy. But what has come naturally to Summer is her attraction to one of the farmers: Abram Yoder is handsome, steady, and hardworking. He's everything so many of the Englisch men she knows are not. And Summer quickly realizes that she's caught his eye as well.
Can Summer give up the comforts she's always known for a life with this Amish man? And is Abram willing to let her try?
258 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2019
About the author
Barbara Cameron
92 books224 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
CBD, CBA, and ECPA bestselling author of 24 books (including new series upcoming for Abingdon Press in 2011/2012) including fiction and non-fiction books for Abingdon Press, Thomas Nelson, Harlequin, and other publishers.
I sold three films to HBO/Cinemax and am the first winner of the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.
My two novellas won the 2nd and 3rd place in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest from the Faith, Love, and Hope chapter of RWA. Both were finalists for the novella category of the Carol Award of the American Christian Writers Award (ACFW).
CBD, CBA, and ECPA bestselling author of 24 books (including new series upcoming for Abingdon Press in 2011/2012) including fiction and non-fiction books for Abingdon Press, Thomas Nelson, Harlequin, and other publishers.
I sold three films to HBO/Cinemax and am the first winner of the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.
My two novellas won the 2nd and 3rd place in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest from the Faith, Love, and Hope chapter of RWA. Both were finalists for the novella category of the Carol Award of the American Christian Writers Award (ACFW).
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 10, 2024
Summer and her mother are both struggling in different ways to come to terms with the death of her father and Marie’s husband. Marie is not well and Summer is trying to care for her, keep up with college and also work. Marie and her neighbour Carl are interesting and there are others plus a couple of a little abrasive characters. An interesting aspect is the way Summer has, since childhood, had dreams at night of being Amish. He grandmother was, her parents were not.
This is a gentle tory of two people, both believers but one is Amish. The other is Englisch. But, they reason they are just friends, nothing more. But is that the case? Some people watching on are concerned including the Amish bishop. Summer Carson and Abram Yoder are both likable and easy to empathise with and there is a range of strong secondary characters. Perhaps a little too neat and rushed with the epilogue, and a little repetitive at times, but overall I enjoyed this charming story.
This is book 3 in the Harvest of Hope series but it stands alone fine. A couple of things really spoke to me. One line was about, 'It's arrogant to worry, God knows what He is doing.' Good words to take note of and live by.
This is a gentle tory of two people, both believers but one is Amish. The other is Englisch. But, they reason they are just friends, nothing more. But is that the case? Some people watching on are concerned including the Amish bishop. Summer Carson and Abram Yoder are both likable and easy to empathise with and there is a range of strong secondary characters. Perhaps a little too neat and rushed with the epilogue, and a little repetitive at times, but overall I enjoyed this charming story.
This is book 3 in the Harvest of Hope series but it stands alone fine. A couple of things really spoke to me. One line was about, 'It's arrogant to worry, God knows what He is doing.' Good words to take note of and live by.
October 15, 2019
This book is a wonderful journey where two cultures collide. The author has done an excellent job of showing the differences between English and Amish traditions. One of the things I found intriguing was Christmastime. The Amish celebrate Christmas for two days. The first day is a spiritual time with family. What a wonderful traditional to have where you take time as a family to worship God and thank Him for His goodness.
Summer is a delightful character who has her hands full working, going to college and helping her mother around the farm. Just reading everything Summer is involved in made me tired. She has definitely taken on more than her share. Following in her father's footsteps is very important to Summer. Summer's mother was having a hard time dealing with a loss that was stating to cause her health issues. I loved the close relationship mother and daughter had.
Abram is a welcome addition to the story. Being Amish is something he embraces. It was fun to read how the young women in the community tried to catch his attention with food. Most unmarried men don't think about cooking decent meals and casseroles and baked goods are always nice to receive. The author does a nice job of developing a friendship between Summer and Abram. As they begin to get deeper feelings for each, they realize that someone will have to give up their lifestyle so they can be together. The story doesn't lack for well meaning people to give advice when Abram is seen with Summer. It made me think of all the times we judge others when we think they are in sin.
I love how the author writes a story that fills you with a sense of family and love. Summer's promise to her father is something she intends to honor. There are times in the story where I began to feel Summer's mother was hiding something about her health. Summer has great instincts and picks up that her mother is not quite acting herself. I could understand how Summer desired to have a relationship with Abram but was torn because she wanted to be there for her mother.
The author has written a story that shows a close relationship between mother and daughter and a promise that filters throughout the book in a touching way. Summer and Abram face hard decisions as they follow their heart and listen to God. I loved getting to know Summer and Abram and be a part of a blossoming relationship where God and family are rooted in their heart.
I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publishing Blog Tours. The review is my own opinion.
Summer is a delightful character who has her hands full working, going to college and helping her mother around the farm. Just reading everything Summer is involved in made me tired. She has definitely taken on more than her share. Following in her father's footsteps is very important to Summer. Summer's mother was having a hard time dealing with a loss that was stating to cause her health issues. I loved the close relationship mother and daughter had.
Abram is a welcome addition to the story. Being Amish is something he embraces. It was fun to read how the young women in the community tried to catch his attention with food. Most unmarried men don't think about cooking decent meals and casseroles and baked goods are always nice to receive. The author does a nice job of developing a friendship between Summer and Abram. As they begin to get deeper feelings for each, they realize that someone will have to give up their lifestyle so they can be together. The story doesn't lack for well meaning people to give advice when Abram is seen with Summer. It made me think of all the times we judge others when we think they are in sin.
I love how the author writes a story that fills you with a sense of family and love. Summer's promise to her father is something she intends to honor. There are times in the story where I began to feel Summer's mother was hiding something about her health. Summer has great instincts and picks up that her mother is not quite acting herself. I could understand how Summer desired to have a relationship with Abram but was torn because she wanted to be there for her mother.
The author has written a story that shows a close relationship between mother and daughter and a promise that filters throughout the book in a touching way. Summer and Abram face hard decisions as they follow their heart and listen to God. I loved getting to know Summer and Abram and be a part of a blossoming relationship where God and family are rooted in their heart.
I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publishing Blog Tours. The review is my own opinion.
October 7, 2019
My Review of Summer's Promise by Barbara Cameron: After reading two really bad Christian fiction books that I didn't even finish this was a breathe of fresh air, the story line was a new plot to me for Amish fiction in a good way. The busyness of the character is something I am sure many can connect with through this unique story of love with an Amish man and Englisch young college woman. I enjoyed the subtle romance and the changes through the book and it has the sweetest ending. The story is sweet, clean, though there are some people that are nosy - and somewhat annoying.
Rating: 3 and 1/2 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
Recommendation: 13 up for romance.
Verse: Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (King James Version.)
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Rating: 3 and 1/2 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
Recommendation: 13 up for romance.
Verse: Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (King James Version.)
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
November 15, 2020
While the setting was idyllic and the characters likable, I felt their dimension fell flat of my expectations of a deeper storyline. The friendship and attraction between Summer and Abram seemed to be the only element with a significant arc. I also thought the final “conflict” of the story was unrealistic – Summer’s lack of communication during this portion was immature when compared to the rest of her character’s behavior.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
November 4, 2025
3.5 out of 5 stars
November 3, 2019
This book is the third is a series entitled "Harvest of Hope". Barbara has penned this novel using her unique style of storytelling that grabs the reader's attention and won't let it go! Her strong ability to describe characters in a detailed , realistic way draws one right into the complicated lives so that you walk alongside them as they encounter all the challenges that life tends to present. The reader feels every challenge, hurt and fear.
Being Amish does not exempt one from having problems. When two individuals meet and are attracted to one another, one from the Englisch world and one from the Amish community, there are bound to be serious problems. The two worlds just do not mesh easily into one. Barbara Cameron capably weaves an intricate tale of two intelligent , young people who both love their lives the way they are, however when a romance begins to develop, the plot takes on unexpected twists and turns. Changes have to be made, but which world will draw these young people??? Summer and Abram both have strong, caring relationships with their respective families. Grieving for a family member, Summer is striving to help her mother as well as continue the legacy of her father. Abram is also grieving for her dad. This common factor draws them together in a unique way.
This book is one not to be missed! If you are looking for a novel in the Amish fiction genre, but are getting tired of the norm, this is one that is very different.
I am looking forward to Barbara's next creation!!!
This book was provided by the author. A positive review was not required. The opinions and thoughts expressed are honest and my own.
October 16, 2019
Summer's Promise is the wonderfully written novel penned by Barbara Cameron and is the third book in her Harvest of Hope series. I loved the maturity of Summer Carson, she is a determined young woman who is following in her father's footsteps and earning a degree in agricultural science while a working part-time and helping her widowed mother. The relationship between Summer and her mother is sweet and I love how they take care of and look out for each other.
That is a theme throughout this book, people helping each other, a community with kind, hardworking people who genuinely care about others, both Englisch and Amish lending a helping hand to those who need it.
I loved Abram Yoder from the beginning, his charm and kindness was delightful and his devotion to his Amish faith was never in question. His gentleness with animals was really what made him become a favorite of mine in this book. There was never a doubt in my mind that he and Summer would become friends and I appreciate the way the author wrote their relationship, taking care to nurture it.
I thought it was wonderful that Summer's father is remembered so fondly by the community and keeping his memory alive felt so right in this story because it's all about friends, family and community throughout this well written and well paced novel. This can easily be read as a standalone and is suitable for readers from the young to the young at heart.
I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publishing Blog Tours. Opinions expressed are my own.
That is a theme throughout this book, people helping each other, a community with kind, hardworking people who genuinely care about others, both Englisch and Amish lending a helping hand to those who need it.
I loved Abram Yoder from the beginning, his charm and kindness was delightful and his devotion to his Amish faith was never in question. His gentleness with animals was really what made him become a favorite of mine in this book. There was never a doubt in my mind that he and Summer would become friends and I appreciate the way the author wrote their relationship, taking care to nurture it.
I thought it was wonderful that Summer's father is remembered so fondly by the community and keeping his memory alive felt so right in this story because it's all about friends, family and community throughout this well written and well paced novel. This can easily be read as a standalone and is suitable for readers from the young to the young at heart.
I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publishing Blog Tours. Opinions expressed are my own.
October 19, 2019
This was a sweet story about two people from different worlds. I enjoyed getting to know both of them and seeing their attraction grow. Summer really had a lot on her plate as she was going to school, working two jobs and worried about her mother's health problems. It was interesting to try to figure out with them what was going on with her mother. I admired Summer's strong work ethic and also that she had taken time off to help take care of her dad when he was sick. She had her priorities in order. By contrast, Abram had a very peaceful life, able to work at his own pace and his parents were actually on an extended vacation in Florida. She was struggling some with her faith as she was angry at God for letting her dad get cancer and die while Abram's faith seemed to be strong. It didn't really seem like she addressed those feelings other than being glad she visited church again. I liked that Summer and Abram became friends first and got to know each other and that their romance developed slowly from there. Even though this was book three, it worked fine as a stand-alone. I had read the first book and it was nice to catch up on the characters from it. There was a little glossary at the back of Amish words and a few recipes. I would recommend this book if you like Amish stories!
I received this book from Kregel Publications. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
I received this book from Kregel Publications. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
October 18, 2019
Summer's Promise is the third book in the Harvest of Hope series by Barbara Cameron.
I liked reading Summer and Abram’s story. Summer is working hard to finish college on top of working and helping her mother. They are both grieving the loss of her father. Summer also feels the burden of caring for her mother when she begins to notice her health and memory seems to be declining. She has a lot on her plate right now.
Abram, an Amish man that lives nearby, comes along as a friend to Summer. They both enjoy each other's friendship but don't know if they can have a relationship because they are from differing lifestyles.
There were some things that confused me. I was not sure at first of Carl’s role and his relationship to Summer or her mother. I was confused about his age and role. Also, I didn’t know why it suddenly said Abram had a cell phone since the Amish do not typically use them. I couldn’t remember if I had missed it previously stating why he was allowed to have a phone. There were parts of the book that didn't flow well in my opinion, parts felt choppy and needed to be more developed or left out.
Overall I enjoyed the story.
I was not familliar with this author and had not read the others in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the Kregel blog tour for my honest review. Thank you.
I liked reading Summer and Abram’s story. Summer is working hard to finish college on top of working and helping her mother. They are both grieving the loss of her father. Summer also feels the burden of caring for her mother when she begins to notice her health and memory seems to be declining. She has a lot on her plate right now.
Abram, an Amish man that lives nearby, comes along as a friend to Summer. They both enjoy each other's friendship but don't know if they can have a relationship because they are from differing lifestyles.
There were some things that confused me. I was not sure at first of Carl’s role and his relationship to Summer or her mother. I was confused about his age and role. Also, I didn’t know why it suddenly said Abram had a cell phone since the Amish do not typically use them. I couldn’t remember if I had missed it previously stating why he was allowed to have a phone. There were parts of the book that didn't flow well in my opinion, parts felt choppy and needed to be more developed or left out.
Overall I enjoyed the story.
I was not familliar with this author and had not read the others in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the Kregel blog tour for my honest review. Thank you.
September 29, 2019
Summer's Promise is the third amazing book written by Barbara Cameron in her Harvest of Hope series. I enjoyed this story immensely and getting to know the wonderful characters. The storyline moves along at a great pace.
Summer Carson is a struggling young English woman trying to juggle taking care of her widowed mother, attending college, and working a part-time job. Summer is trying to walk in her late father's footsteps by working in the county agricultural office. This is how she meets Abram Yoder. The two hit it off and become instant friends. This is where there journey gets complicated.
There is an underlying mystery as to why Summer has been having dreams since her childhood that she is an Amish madael. As her dreams become more enhanced Summer tries to piece it all together. What she finally discovers shocks her but in a good way.
I did not receive a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others
Congratulations to Barbara Cameron for once again writing a fascinating story involving the Amish for her readers enjoyment.
Summer Carson is a struggling young English woman trying to juggle taking care of her widowed mother, attending college, and working a part-time job. Summer is trying to walk in her late father's footsteps by working in the county agricultural office. This is how she meets Abram Yoder. The two hit it off and become instant friends. This is where there journey gets complicated.
There is an underlying mystery as to why Summer has been having dreams since her childhood that she is an Amish madael. As her dreams become more enhanced Summer tries to piece it all together. What she finally discovers shocks her but in a good way.
I did not receive a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others
Congratulations to Barbara Cameron for once again writing a fascinating story involving the Amish for her readers enjoyment.
October 31, 2019
Summer's Promise" is a wonderful story about two cultures.
You will follow the friendship between Summer Carson and her Amish neighbor, Abram Yoder.
Summer does not have time to date. She works two jobs, goes to college, and is concerned with her mother's health.
Will their religions be a barrier between them? Is there any chance for something more between the two?
Add in a couple of twists and you will not want to put this book down.
I was hooked from the first sentence to the last paragraph!
I will.tell you that this book is part of a series. But, I was so excited to see that I did not have to read the first two books in order to read this one.
The author, Barbara Cameron, has written a wonderful book! I highly recommend it!
"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."
You will follow the friendship between Summer Carson and her Amish neighbor, Abram Yoder.
Summer does not have time to date. She works two jobs, goes to college, and is concerned with her mother's health.
Will their religions be a barrier between them? Is there any chance for something more between the two?
Add in a couple of twists and you will not want to put this book down.
I was hooked from the first sentence to the last paragraph!
I will.tell you that this book is part of a series. But, I was so excited to see that I did not have to read the first two books in order to read this one.
The author, Barbara Cameron, has written a wonderful book! I highly recommend it!
"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."
April 3, 2022
Boy how I wish this series was not ending because it’s that good!
Summer’s Promise by Barbara Cameron is Book 3 in the Harvest of Hope Series.
Sometimes when we Dream it’s just that a Dream but other times it’s telling us that we have meaning behind that Dream, in this story you will see that God does have reasons for all things that happen in our lives and in time we will see what those things meant, but we must keep our faith and trust the process.
Summer and Abram’s story will show you that a difficult road can be traveled and even if you encounter trials along the way you will find great joy and God’s Grace.
This book is packed full of wonderful characters, a great storyline and will show you that it’s possible to bridge that gap and follow God’s lead for your life.
I not only recommend this book but the entire series.
Summer’s Promise by Barbara Cameron is Book 3 in the Harvest of Hope Series.
Sometimes when we Dream it’s just that a Dream but other times it’s telling us that we have meaning behind that Dream, in this story you will see that God does have reasons for all things that happen in our lives and in time we will see what those things meant, but we must keep our faith and trust the process.
Summer and Abram’s story will show you that a difficult road can be traveled and even if you encounter trials along the way you will find great joy and God’s Grace.
This book is packed full of wonderful characters, a great storyline and will show you that it’s possible to bridge that gap and follow God’s lead for your life.
I not only recommend this book but the entire series.
October 18, 2019
Barbara Cameron has a wonderful storytelling ability and an unique way of crafting believable dialogue, which helps make this romantic story a page turner. The characters are likeable, which is always a plus for me. If I like a character, then I'll most likely connect with them. If I don't like a character, then I have a hard time getting interested in the story. The plot is nothing new in the Amish genre, it's just your typical romance story but thanks to the creative writing and intriguing characters, it never once did it feel cliched.
Overall, Summer's Promise is a cute, fast-paced, little read (269 pages) that I read in one sitting. I recommend it to any reader looking for a quick romantic read.
Overall, Summer's Promise is a cute, fast-paced, little read (269 pages) that I read in one sitting. I recommend it to any reader looking for a quick romantic read.
January 22, 2020
A very quick read. I enjoyed this book but felt it had a rushed ending. It felt like a few things did not get wrapped up.
September 7, 2020
I loved this story.
Want to Read
August 5, 2024O
October 18, 2019
Summer's Promise is a very sweet read that shows how important true love is and what two people are willing to give up to attain that goal. Summer is an Englisher who has always lived near her Amish community. She is up to her eyeballs in work and college yet she is a very sweet woman who honestly is trying her best at living. Even helping others in very spare time. She recently lost her father to cancer and she strives to live in a way that would make him proud. She also has a great relationship with her mother whom she lives with and it was refreshing to see a beautiful mother and daughter relationship.
Abram, an Amish man, has taken over his parents farm after they have moved to Florida for a quieter life. He is missing his family and bachelorhood is not something he actually likes. But he is bound and determined to wait for true love and sees that as something much more rewarding than having a wife for convenience sake. Unfortunately even though there are several young single Amish ladies, none has caught his eye. Only one has and she is not part of his world.
These two have a connection almost from the start yet they try to hide their feelings under their growing friendship. They know how they feel and what their hearts desire is, but their love seems almost impossible from the start. Especially when one of them would have to sacrifice much to be accepted in the other's society.
I enjoyed this lighthearted and inspirational romance. It was nice to just sit back and enjoy a story of romance at the heart of it all.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Abram, an Amish man, has taken over his parents farm after they have moved to Florida for a quieter life. He is missing his family and bachelorhood is not something he actually likes. But he is bound and determined to wait for true love and sees that as something much more rewarding than having a wife for convenience sake. Unfortunately even though there are several young single Amish ladies, none has caught his eye. Only one has and she is not part of his world.
These two have a connection almost from the start yet they try to hide their feelings under their growing friendship. They know how they feel and what their hearts desire is, but their love seems almost impossible from the start. Especially when one of them would have to sacrifice much to be accepted in the other's society.
I enjoyed this lighthearted and inspirational romance. It was nice to just sit back and enjoy a story of romance at the heart of it all.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
May 17, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a perfect relaxing reading during Covid-19 SAH. I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Summer and Abram. I knew how the ending would be but I liked how it all came together. I needed a happy ending story that made me smile. Thanks Barbara!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews