The Brides of Big Valley by Wanda, Jean, and Richelle Brunstetter

I really enjoy books that family write together.  It's really neat to see how the stories interweave, yet stand apart with the writer's unique style.  

In the Bride's of Big Valley we see three generations come together for stories from unique Amish communities.  From the description: In an area of Pennsylvania called The Big Valley, a uniquely blended Amish community thrives in which 3 distinct groups of Amish identify themselves by the colors of their buggy’s top—white, black, or yellow. Join New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter, her daughter-in-law, and granddaughter in experiencing the stories of three young women who search for faith and love within this special place. Deanna is a widow who sees her second chance of love slipping away. Rose Mary is at a point in life where she must choose the path of her faith and the right man to walk with her on it. Leila is burdened with family responsibilities and wonders when she will ever start a family of her own.

I really enjoyed the stories, they could stand alone but work well together as characters overlap.  There is a little explanation of the different Amish groups highlighted, but I like having more background on unique cultures so I did a bit of my own research and that really was helpful in understanding more about the groups and made the reading much better. 

In Deanna's Determination Deanna is left widowed with a special needs child.  Elmer has loved Deanna but an accident leaves him bitter and unable to see a future with her.  The story had sad parts, but just like real life, things aren't always rosy.  I enjoyed how the characters were portrayed and how they worked through their challenges.  

In Rose Mary's Resolve Rose Mary meets a pilot who crashes and the family nurses him to health.  He is drawn to their simple way of life and family bond.  Kevin's father is, well, he's kind of a jerk and pushy.  I really liked how Kevin grew in faith and matured as the story went along.  The story had a nice flow and pace. 

Leila's Longing was probably my favorite in the book.  You really felt for Leila and wanted her to find her place in the community and love.  How many times do we feel that we are never enough?  Leila was the character who changed the most in my opinion in the stories.  I found myself caring for her and invested in her being happy.  This was a great story to end the book with!

All in all I enjoyed this book.  It's going to be a great addition to my shelf.  So pick up your copy today!  Happy Reading!   

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*