Leslie Gould's Amish Weddings

Whenever I read a book written by Leslie Gould I am immediately hooked by the characters she creates. If the book is part of series it is even better!  Amish Weddings, Neighbors of Lancaster County series book three is a book I heartily recommend if you enjoy stories of faith, love and forgiveness.

Set in Lancaster County, the story begins with the upcoming wedding plans for Lila Lehman and Zane Beck. I enjoyed their story in Amish Sweethearts and was pleased to tag along for their upcoming wedding.  Their plans are disrupted, however, when Lila is critically injured in a buggy accident. With a long recovery looming she must recover not only her bodily strength but also her spiritual strength.

Zane's love pours itself out in numerous ways as this man who gave up his Englisch life navigates a system that is far different in the plain world.  Uncertainty is like a shroud that threatens their future happiness.

Lila's sister Rose is a lively young woman who enjoys a good time but is ready to settle down with Reuben Byler, the bishop's son.  Reuben is waiting to settle on announcing a marriage to Rose until after Lila and Zane are wed. Rose is captivated by a young man who served in Afghanistan with Zane. He is as exciting to Rose as the bright red sports car he drives.  He is the opposite of Reuben and quick to declare how he feels about Rose.

Tim Lehman, the girls' widowed father enjoys keeping company with Beth Yoder.  He would marry her in a heartbeat if not for her long ago divorce. The divorce is like a shadow over the relationship because the church does not recognize divorce.

This is Rose's story and the journey she completes toward becoming a woman in her own right. Her mother died when she was just a little girl and she was raised by Lila who was just a girl herself. Her father was busy keeping them fed and housed as a single parent. She is an impetuous young woman who faces consequences that bring her full circle to the woman she was meant to be.  At times I was angry with her and  others I felt she was just a young woman who lost her mother's love and guidance far too soon.  I was happy with the ending of the story and am happy to recommend Amish Weddings without reservation.