Christmas at Timberwoods

An Amish Husband for Tillie by Amy Lillard is the 4th novel in Amish of Pontotoc series. I recommend reading the series in order. This will allow you understand the sisters' stories. I was eager to read Tillie's tale. I found this emotional story to be well-written with steady pacing. The characters are realistic and developed. I was happy to that Tillie's large family was included and that we get to catch up with her sisters from the previous three books (Leah, Hannah, and Gracie). Tillie Gingerich is scared to return home after taking off for the English world with Melvin Yoder. We get to experience her fears and uncertainties. Tillie knows the rules of the community, but she wants to spend Christmas with her family. Her baby is due in less than a month which has her longing for the comfort of home and family. I thought the author did a wonderful job at expressing Tillie's emotions and thoughts. Amy Lillard does the same for Levi Yoder who is devastated when his pregnant wife dies unexpectedly. Levi goes from happy husband and expectant father to a widower. The approaching holidays are not helping his mood nor the caring ladies of the community who drop by with food. I could feel Levi's grief and how overwhelming it is to him. I could relate to his feelings regarding the holiday season. I did not understand the bishop's decision regarding Tillie considering that she was not a baptized member. I know it is fiction, but I found the situation harsh. I wanted to give that bishop a piece of my mind. I just loved Levi's sister, Mims. She is a force to be reckoned with when she is on a mission. You can tell how much she loves her brother. An Amish Husband for Tillie is a moving and inspiring story. We see that God's plan for our life may not be our plan. We never know what he has in mind for our lives. The story deals with love, faith, forgiveness, acceptance, trust, compassion, and second chances. Everyone deserves a second chance. An Amish Husband for Tillie is a touching and encouraging holiday story that will tug on your heartstrings.