Amish Bishop Christopher Stoltz had no idea a shopping trip with his fraa could change his life. But when young Jaycee Parker mistakes him for Santa Claus, his heart is moved with compassion for the boy and his family. Will this unlikely pair discover more than just a holiday filled with food and gifts?
At eighteen, Englischer Shannon Parker is left the sole caretaker and provider of her three younger siblings. All she truly wants for Christmas is to be able to provide a happy holiday and decent gifts for each of them. Not an easy feat, given that her low-paying waitressing job is their only source of income. When a handsome stranger walks into the restaurant offering kindness, she has a feeling her life will never be the same again.
A faith-filled Christmas story sure to bring a smile to your face and warm your heart with the Joy of the season!
By the grace of God, USA Today Bestselling Author Jennifer Spredemann began writing professionally as J.E.B. Spredemann in 2012. The acronym J.E.B. stands for Jennifer, Emily, and Brandi. Emily and Brandi are Jennifer's two eldest daughters, and co-authored the Amish Girls Series books, along with A Christmas of Mercy. (Brandi also writes Christian Western Romance under the pen name, Brandi Gabriel.) You will find Jennifer's Amish-themed books under both Jennifer Spredemann and J.E.B. Spredemann. Jennifer also writes (non-Amish) Christian romance under the pen name Michelynn Christy. As of 2025, Spredemann has penned over fifty titles, the majority of which are Amish romance. Readers describe Spredemann's stories as books they "can't put down." Spredemann strives to tell intriguing stories that touch the hearts of her readers and bring glory to God.
This is a wonderful story of a Family whose door is darkened by loss and Opened by Faith, Love and learning to Love the Lord our Savior. Shannon and her brothers and sister learn that there are wonderful people who care about their neighbors if given the opportunity. If you love Amish Fiction and you love to read an Uplifting story do not pass this book up!!! Thank you Jennifer Spredemann for the opportunity to read this wonderful story.
What a unique Amish story, unlike any I've ever read. Spredemann has captured my heart with her characters in this story - the young children especially. She also write Amish characters differently, which I appreciate. I imagine that if a small child mistook an Amish Bishop for Santa Claus, he may not react the way Christopher did - with kindness and a chuckle. At least, I don't think. But that's what makes this book so special - Spredemann puts her own sweet spin on it.
The message that Spredemann presents in this story will absolutely touch your heart. There's something to be said about neighborly love and helping people out. Christopher and his wife certainly goes above and beyond, much like you see in many Christmas stories. But the way they take in Shannon and her siblings is so touching, and warm. Reading this was kind of like sipping warm hot chocolate while snuggling with a fuzzy blanket - it restores your hope in mankind and makes you smile.
Whether you are looking to get into the holiday spirit, or looking for a little inspiration, this is a book that you will enjoy. I encourage you to read this heartwarming story today! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Unlikely Santa provides a heartwarming winsome story of lives being touched deeply by showing love, sharing, and being a light for God to those less fortunate. Shannon was overwhelmed with caring for her three young siblings, stretching money to meet their needs until Jaycee meet his “Santa” on a store bench. This beautiful story is filled with moments of tears to laughter with Jaycee’s words. Christopher, Judy, Wesley and his parents are a blessing to the Parker family in so many ways with their love of God shining through bringing love, hope and joy to this young family. There are plenty of joyful times with the caring Amish couple, a budding romance, a caring Amish community, and the true meaning of Christmas revealed. Unlikely Santa by Jennifer Spredemann is definitely a must to read this Christmas season. I’m certain this is going to be one of my top favorite Christmas stories this year.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. I have expressed my sincere thoughts. I would like to see a sequel to this book with all the charming characters.
Second in An Amish Christmas Story series, this 5 star book does not disappoint. We get to visit with many of the characters from Unlikely Santa, the first of the series and we get to know some others in greater detail.
This inspirational story teaches us many lessons including forgiveness, love of the Lord, plus so much more, and is written in a beautiful style. It is also very unusual in that it incorporates the Englisch and Amish of one family and explains how they are the same and how they differ. It also shows that we are never too old to learn and to mend our ways.
If you love Christmas stories, Amish fiction, family, inspirational stories and friendship then this book encompasses it all. New to Amish fiction? Give this one a try. It does not focus as heavily on the Amish as do some other fiction books but is a beautiful place to start and hopefully will want you learning more and reading more in this genre.
Thank you Jennifer Spredemann for another beautifully inspirational, heart warming and uplifting book. Perfect to read this sweet book with a cup of cocoa and enjoy that chocolately sweetness along with it.
After Shannon's parents were killed in a car accident, she found herself taking care of her siblings, Brighton, Jaycee and Melanie. But little did she know that Santa, Or Christopher, would catch the eye of Jaycee at a store, then their lives changed for the best. The family found the love of another family and the love of God. Was it Gods will for Wesley to find Shannon and fall in Love, or fate? This is a must read..
#Unlikely Santa by Jennifer Spredemann is a must read this Holiday Season. Right from the start you will be pulled into this wonderful story that speaks right to your heart and tickle’s your funny bone with Little Jaycee who quickly became my favorite character, and I’m sure will be right up there with yours as well. Although sweet little Melanie will brighten your day as well.  Shannon Parker is a young woman who will come to realize that age old saying we so often forget and yet when we need it the most it’s as if it’s God sent. So pick up your copy of Unlikely Santa and find out for your self just what Shannon Parker’s Story is all about you won’t be disappointed. Jennifer Spredemann’s is an excellent author and i can’t wait for more books just like this. 
What a wonderful story of Love, Faith and Forgiveness. I loved the antics of little Jaycee, still a little rascal, he really makes me smile. My favorite characters are: Holly, she helped Randy to see God's love and helped to to forgive his grandparents. Christopher or " Santa" to Jaycee. He is so wise and loves God and family so much. My favorite line that moved me was: Forgiveness is not something that can be forced. It must come from the heart. Jennifer Spredemann has another #1 best seller to me. TO GOD BE THE GLORY..
Author Jennifer Spredeman reminds us how important it is to take care of each other as we travel through life together. Filled with wonderful characters, you’ll truly feel the wonder of Christmas while you’re reading this story
What a hallmark story!! Love, love, love this one. After their parents die in a car crash, Shannon steps up to take care of her two younger brothers and baby sister. Working as a waitress makes it extremely difficult to make ends meet. And her boyfriend breaks up with her. But then Wesley arrives on the scene, and so does an ‘unlikely Santa’! Jaycee, the adorable brother, meets him in the store. The whole story is about the incredible way that God works in lives. And it openly shares the truth about salvation. It would be a great book to share with others as well... find out more about Shannon and her hero and what capers little Jaycee is up to!
This is one of the most uplifting and enjoyable Amish stories I've read. It started off sad, but it didn't take long to pick up and go in a different direction. I simply couldn't stop reading once I started.
The characters were inspiring, and the more layers that were exposed, my fondness grew for them. My favorite character is Jaycee. I couldn't help but smile at some of his antics. And Christoper was wonderful as "Santa."
The storyline had enough surprises and twists to keep the story flowing well. The ending wrapped everything up nicely. Highly recommended. The perfect Christmas story!
Shannon is trying hard to raise her siblings. When Wesley walks in to her work she can’t believe how caring he was. Christopher is truly a amazing person. He can’t help to laugh at Jaycee the way he gets so excited about meeting him. When Christopher and Judy show up at Shannon’s home she is surprised at how special the couple are. This book is truly a inspirational story that you won’t be able to stop reading. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. You will feel God working throughout this wonderful book. I would give this book a higher rating than a five star review if I could.
Very good book. Warms your heart that there is still kindness in some people. I fell in love with the Parker family and of course the Stoltz's. Everyone needs to read this book. Wonderful job Jennifer Spredemann!
Ok, first and foremost any book by J.E.B.Spredemann is Awesome! Jennifer writes stories that you immerse yourself into and don't want to end. Characters who make you believe that there is still good in this world 🙏. And Santa really does exist.
This is an extremely well written book with a wide range of emotions included. I loved all the characters and how they interacted with each other. Inspiring and uplifting. Highly recommend. I received an advance reader copy from the author. Opinions are my own.
This is a sweet Christmas story that, even in October, made me want to pull out the Christmas decorations and bake Christmas cookies. This is an unusual Amish story. The three Parker children have recently lost their parents in a tragic accident, and 18 year old Shannon is now the head of the family. Five year old Jaycee sees Christopher, an Amish man, in Walmart, and thinks he’s Santa. Christopher buys Jaycee a candy bar, and realizes that the Parker children are in great need.
I liked the fact that this story showed the Amish community’s compassion for this orphaned “English” family and the way they stepped up to help them. There’s a sweet romance that quickly blooms between Wesley and Shannon that is the focus of most of the story. But my favorite scenes in the book were the ones that involved the younger children: Brighton, Jaycee, and Melanie. It’s through their eyes that the reader sees the wonder of the Christmas season.
There’s a strong salvation message in this book as Wesley shares his faith with Shannon. The themes of faith, hope, and love make this a touching story of the true message of Christmas.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
If you are a fan of a good Amish Christmas story this is the book for you. The author did a wonderful job of setting each character's personality so you felt like you knew them personally. This sweet story is one of heartache, hope, and love. I especially loved Wesley and Shannon and enjoyed reading how their story unfolds. A sweet story!
One of my favorite lines from the book...
His eyes widened as he laid his eyes on the girl of his dreams. Right there. In his grandmother’s kitchen. Looking as attractive as ever. Was he dreaming all this up?
The farther I read in Unlikely Santa, the more I fell in love with this book. The storyline is exquisitely written with each character having their own specially uniqueness. I love Christmas books, but I believe Author Jennifer Spredemann takes this book to a higher level. I highly recommend reading Unlikely Santa. I enjoyed reading this amazing book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
I can't believe this book held my full attention to the very end. If YOU are looking for a new yearly Christmas story this book will be it. My heart was full of love, tears, and happiness!
Unlikely Sweethearts by Jennifer Spredemann is an Amish Christmas Story that you won’t want to miss this Christmas Season and although you could read it as a stand alone I would highly suggest that you read Unlikely Santa ( book 1 ) first as many of these beloved characters that I and I know you will come to cherish cross over into both books. I was gifted an ARC for my honest opinion of this book but to tell you the truth I truly believe this book and these characters will capture your heart this holiday season and give you that warm cozy feeling that only Christmas evolved in us as we were children. Holly and Randy’s story will show you that through faith and understanding we can turn back to God and know that through him all things are possible. Of course like in book one my favorite characters were Little Jaycee, how can you not love his antic’s yet his zest for all things Christmas, simple things that bring such great joy like skating or yes spending time with his favorite two people, Santa ( also know as Amish Grandpa Christopher and Grandma Judy.) Then of course another character I loved from book one and again from this book is Christopher (Santa) he is wise, understanding and loving. His sage advice brings much needed healing to his family. The only negative thing I can say about this book is when I reached the last page as I was so very sad to see this book end. I highly suggest you read it, it’s a Christmas gift you can give yourself and pick it up for all your gift giving needs.
Oh how I love happy reading. Jennifer Spredemann delivers a delightful story that leads Randy and Holly to find each other. Holly brings out the best in Randy and Randy brings joy to Holly. So happy to be on the launch team for this wonderful happy holiday book. Do not let this book pass you by.
Unlikely Santa by Jennifer Spredemann What would you do if you were mistaken for Santa? Amish Bishop Christopher Stoltz had no idea a shopping trip with his fraa could change his life. But when young Jaycee Parker mistakes him for Santa Claus, his heart is moved with compassion for the boy and his family. Will this unlikely pair discover more than just a holiday filled with food and gifts? At eighteen, Englischer Shannon Parker is left the sole caretaker and provider of her three younger siblings. All she truly wants for Christmas is to be able to provide a happy holiday and decent gifts for each of them. Not an easy feat, given that her low-paying waitressing job is their only source of income. When a handsome stranger walks into the restaurant offering kindness, she has a feeling her life will never be the same again. A faith-filled Christmas story sure to bring a smile to your face and warm your heart with the Joy of the season! This is Shannon Parker and Brighton,Jaycee her two younger brothers and Melanie her baby sister's story. This is Shannon and Wesley's story. Christopher and Judy Stolez his wife's story. Shannon lost both of her parents. Shannon work as a waitress. Her low paying job makes it extremely difficult to make ends meet. She dug into her purse and counted her money once again. She grimaced. There was no way she’d be able to purchase all the items she’d planned for. She picked up a bag of dry beans—they’d last for at least two meals, and some rice. Rice was great for stretching the budget and filling bellies, she’d learned. It could also be used for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. She grabbed another bag. I highly recommend reading. Unlikely Santa by Jennifer Spredemann is a wonderful well written 5 star book. I am looking forward to reading more books by Jennifer Spredemann. Thank you Jennifer Spredemann for the opportunity to read this book.
Unlikely Santa is an emotional Christmas story filled with love, family, and healing written by J.E.B. Spredemann. This story is inspiring in so many ways. Devastation rocks the world of four siblings but because a young five year olds love for candy he discovers his real life Santa. The characters are absolutely loveable and will make their way into your heart. This storyline is fast moving keeping the reader turning pages.
This story brings two different worlds together for one common good. The author takes her readers on a journey that not only mends broken hearts but mends broken families. But most of all brings all together for form a new family. This story really touched my heart.
I was not given 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 will definitely be recommending to others.
Congratulations and thank you to J.E.B. Spredemann for writing such an uplifting story for the Christmas season. This book, however, could be read at anytime of the year for the message it tells.
I was so lucky to have won this book in a giveaway! I enjoyed very much reading this sweet Christmas story. Shannon's parents were killed in an accident, leaving her and her much younger siblings to find their way. Things are difficult both financially and otherwise. Her son meets an Amish man while shopping and their lives begin to change. At work, Shannon meets a handsome young man and another God-planned change begins as well. The story is very nice to read and makes a great addition to Christmas reading. Although the Gospel doctrines taught in the story are somewhat different than my own Gospel teachings, I see the values that are shared and loved how the story developed. There were some unexpected twists and turns to add interest to the story.
It was a easy to read book and gets you in the holiday Spirit!
I received this book in a giveaway and was not required to post a review.
Unlikely Sweethearts is an amazing Amish Christmas story written by Jennifer Spredemann. The characters are very likeable and realistic some of the characters have appeared in Unlikely Santa also written by the same author. Both stories gives the reader great insight as to the importance of family and faith. I enjoyed this story immensely. The storyline continues on a great place which keeps the readers interest.
My first impression of Randy Stoltz was that he was a playboy type and tosses women aside for the next one but as the story plays out his intentions toward Holly were pure and truthful. Holly is hiding a big secret and is very apprehensive to reveal it to Randy for fear she would loose him. Randy show his honest feelings and they may astound the reader. Randy has been estranged from his Amish grandparents since he was a very young boy but Holly is on a mission to try to heal his broken heart. This story is filled with love, compassion, family, and forgiveness. The author has once again delivered another incredible Christmas story for her readers.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. 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 Jennifer Spredemann on writing such an inspiring story involving the Amish for the Christmas season.
Shannon is caring for her siblings while their parents are on their 20th anniversary trip when the unthinkable happens. A police officer arrives to tell her that her parents have been killed in a head on collision. Fast forward 3 months: her boyfriend has left her and she is struggling to care for all that needs to be done. Her youngest brother sees an Amish man in Wal-Mart that to a 5 year old, looks like Santa. This starts a change for the family as well as a change for Shannon when she meets the grandson of the Amish couple. Sparks fly but trouble brews as well. A wonderful story and hard to put down. Looking forward to book 2!
Cute story about a 18 year old girl instantly having heart breaking news that changes her life forever making her responsible for her younger siblings. As she struggles to survive an Amish husband and wife end up meeting the family and falling in love with them helping in every way they can (even though this family is not Amish). While the Amish couple cares for the girl and her siblings the main character falls for a wonderful person she met at work who turns out to be the grandson of the Amish couple.
Shannon, who is 18, lost both her parents . She is struggling to raise her 3 siblings. Jaycee her younger brother sits down next to an Amish grandfather at a local Walmart. Jaycee thinks the Amish man is Santa Claus. This starts a Christmas miracle and hope. It’s a fun but inspirational starry. Great characters...perfect for Christmas reading. Thank you M’ Spreedemann for a delightful reminder God is always in control.
So heartwarming! This unique bishop is so kind when he’s mistaken for Santa. After all, what child doesn’t want to see Santa? And the sacrifices Shannon makes for her siblings are touching.
Author Jennifer Spredeman reminds us how important it is to take care of each other as we travel through life together. Filled with wonderful characters, you’ll truly feel the wonder of Christmas while you’re reading this story.
This was a sweet Christmas read. When Shannon’s parents are tragically killed in a car accident, 18 year old Shannon suddenly becomes “mom” to her 3 young siblings. Wesley’s Amish grandfather looks like Santa which captures the attention of her 5 year old brother. When Wesley and his Amish grandparents enters her life, it is completely changed-spiritually, emotionally and even financially- for Shannon and her siblings. This story is about love, family, hope and the real meaning of Christmas.
I loved Jennifer's book, Unlikely Santa! It is a delightful read full of surprises and sweet romance. Out of great sadness, God brings joy to Shannon Parker and her siblings. The characters are well-developed and it is inspirational to read how Wesley Stoltz shares his faith with Shannon. The relationship and fun dialogue between Wesley's Amish grandfather, Christopher Stoltz and Shannon's brother, Jaycee, adds a lot to this story. I highly recommend Unlikely Santa during this Christmas season.