A Love for Leah by Amy Lillard (Amish of Pontotoc Book #2)

I'm always super excited when I get a new book from one of my favorite writers.  So when this gem showed up I couldn't wait to dive into it!  

YAY!!  Leah gets a turn at her own story this go around.  From the back:  For the Amish of Pontotoc, Mississippi, faith can open minds—and hearts—to create surprising bonds for a lifetime . . .

Independent-minded Leah Gingerich has always been outspoken. And even though she is now a progressive Mennonite, she's rediscovering the joys of family traditions back in her Amish hometown. Yet she can't help but clash with her handsome new Amish neighbor, Jamie Stoltzfus. He's too hard-headed and old-line to see that his traumatized young nephew, Peter, needs faith and help—or that a woman who stands up to him may be what he needs to heal . . .

After a devastating tragedy, Jamie moved to Pontotoc with his nephew for a fresh start. Holding fast to his beliefs is the only way he feels he can aid Peter—and himself. But somehow, Leah's freethinking ways and feisty challenges are sparking a happiness he's never felt before. Soon, Jamie can't imagine his life without her. But are their differences ultimately too great to overcome—or can love bridge their way to a future together? 

So first things first.  You need to read the first book, A Home For Hannah.  Think of it like this, you can go to a nice restaurant and get just a steak and be fine.  But isn't it much better to get the potato, salad, bread and dessert?  Some book series are like that.  You can just read this book and be fine, but to really understand and to have closer connections to what's going on you need to start at the beginning.  

I loved Leah.  Amy Lillard makes characters that come to life.  They have flaws and you find yourself drawn deeply into her worlds that she creates.  You find yourself connecting with her characters as well and caring for them.  I felt deeply for Peter and Jamie as well.  

There were a few places where I did want to bonk both Leah and Jamie.  They do argue quite a bit and that made me nuts.  The ending was a little too fast as well.  Maybe an epilogue to tie things together would have helped some?  

Will Leah and Jamie find what they are looking for?  Will they trust in God to lead them in the right direction?  Pick up your copy of A Love for Leah and enjoy a great story!  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.*