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Quilts of Love #11
The Christmas Quilt
Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself delivering the buggy to her brother Adam. Annie's sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2013
About the author
Vannetta Chapman
122 books1,411 followersVannetta Chapman is the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 40 novels. She has sold over one million copies and writes in a variety of genres that include dystopian, suspense, romantic suspense, romance, and cozy mystery.
Chapman was an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level for fifteen years. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.
For more information, visit her at http://vannettachapman.com
https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman
https://www.facebook.com/VannettaChap...
http://vannettachapman.com/blog/
https://www.instagram.com/vannettacha...
http://vannettachapman.com/book-list/
Chapman was an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level for fifteen years. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.
For more information, visit her at http://vannettachapman.com
https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman
https://www.facebook.com/VannettaChap...
http://vannettachapman.com/blog/
https://www.instagram.com/vannettacha...
http://vannettachapman.com/book-list/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
October 4, 2013
Annie took advantage of her rumspringa to become a nurse. After returning to her Amish roots Annie married Samuel Yoder who is an herbalist tending to the medical needs of the community. Together Annie and Samuel have assisted in numerous medical situations. The local midwife had asked for their assistance in monitoring Annie's dearest friend and sister-in-law, Leah, who is pregnant with twins and due to deliver in less than two months. Annie and Leah are as close as sisters, and with Annie also pregnant the two are excited about raising their children together. Annie has been planning to make a quilt for Leah's bopplin, but is slow in starting it. She finally has all of the fabrics and is ready to begin when Leah goes into early labor and is taken to a Philadelphia hospital with a neonatal intensive care unit in case the babies are born too soon. Leah's husband, Adam has daily farm necessities to tend to, and with Annie's nursing experience he agrees for his sister to stay with Leah at the hospital where she had worked as a nurse. With much time on their hands Leah and Annie work on the quilt while they share their deepest feelings, and pray for God's presence in their lives. Each square has a special significance.
In this Quilts of Love story numerous issues are broached. Leah and Adam's relationship had become stressful and communication had broken down. The stress of Leah's early labor brought numerous emotions and possible complications to the surface. As Leah and Annie spend a great deal of time in prayer and discussion their faith is increased. Vannetta Chapman has written a beautiful Amish romance interlaced with stressful circumstances and questioned faith while blending the lives of an Amish family and strengthening their ties. Issues of marital stress, complications of pregnancy, family, patience, faith and love are important factors brought to the surface in this beautiful story in combination with the significance of a very special quilt finished just in time for Christmas. This author is very creative and insightful, and her research into the subject matter is commendable! I highly recommend this book and would love to see a sequel!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
In this Quilts of Love story numerous issues are broached. Leah and Adam's relationship had become stressful and communication had broken down. The stress of Leah's early labor brought numerous emotions and possible complications to the surface. As Leah and Annie spend a great deal of time in prayer and discussion their faith is increased. Vannetta Chapman has written a beautiful Amish romance interlaced with stressful circumstances and questioned faith while blending the lives of an Amish family and strengthening their ties. Issues of marital stress, complications of pregnancy, family, patience, faith and love are important factors brought to the surface in this beautiful story in combination with the significance of a very special quilt finished just in time for Christmas. This author is very creative and insightful, and her research into the subject matter is commendable! I highly recommend this book and would love to see a sequel!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
September 30, 2013
A Heartwarming Read!
This is a book that will stay with me for awhile. Author Vannetta Chapman really knows how to capture your heart. She has taken a fictional story and made it believable. The characters wrap themselves around your emotions and hold you captive until the very end.
I believe this is the best Amish fiction book that I have ever read in the emotions department. The Christmas Quilt in this book tells quite a story and you can’t read about it without crying.
Two couples both connected by family ties but yet so different. One couple portrays the love, tenderness and caring that one expects in a marriage. One couple struggles with insecurities and distance between each other.
Sometimes it takes an event to occur in our life in order for everything to work itself out. In all circumstances it takes God’s word, praying, forgiveness, and faith to see us through.
I do believe this book might change your life. The lessons learned and the bonds that are formed are priceless. I pray that you will pick up a copy of this book. You will be Blessed!
This is a book that will stay with me for awhile. Author Vannetta Chapman really knows how to capture your heart. She has taken a fictional story and made it believable. The characters wrap themselves around your emotions and hold you captive until the very end.
I believe this is the best Amish fiction book that I have ever read in the emotions department. The Christmas Quilt in this book tells quite a story and you can’t read about it without crying.
Two couples both connected by family ties but yet so different. One couple portrays the love, tenderness and caring that one expects in a marriage. One couple struggles with insecurities and distance between each other.
Sometimes it takes an event to occur in our life in order for everything to work itself out. In all circumstances it takes God’s word, praying, forgiveness, and faith to see us through.
I do believe this book might change your life. The lessons learned and the bonds that are formed are priceless. I pray that you will pick up a copy of this book. You will be Blessed!
November 29, 2017
Annie spent her "rumspringa" in nursing school, and now uses her skills to serve her Amish community. She and her sister-in-law Leah are both pregnant, Leah with twins. When unexpected complications send Leah to an English hospital, Annie is there to support and help in her care. As they work on a quilt for the babies, they share stories relating to the nine fruits of the spirit.
A wonderful reminder of what Christmas is truly about, faith, family and community.
A wonderful reminder of what Christmas is truly about, faith, family and community.
December 7, 2019
Lovely story with endearing characters. The Christmas Quilt definitely fed my Amish addict. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. The narration is excellent and added greatly to my enjoyment of this book. Happy reading/listening!
October 7, 2013
My Comments
This book is the much anticipated sequel to Chapman’s A Simple Amish Christmas. Annie is now a newlywed and pregnant with their first boppli, but she’s not the only one! Leah, her best friend, and sister-in-law (although Leah is married to Annie’s brother, she’s more like a sister than an in-law) is also newly married to Adam and expecting their first boppli as well. It was interesting to see the difference in these two couples.
Couple #1 is very much in love, but then the pregnancy is a complicated one and the mom-to-be is moody and emotional. She’s also insecure and doesn’t understand why her husband gets so annoyed all the time. He works so much that she barely sees him and when she does, they tend to argue all the time. The husband is a wonderful man, but lacks maturity and has trouble communicating properly what he’s thinking. This only leads to frustration for this Amish couple. Being pregnant is supposed to be a joyful time, but this couple is far from rejoicing. Will they be ready when the baby arrives? Will they be able to get past their differences? How will this pregnancy affect their faith?
Pg. 70 “But there are others I care for as well. Annie, of course.” Their eyes met again, and Annie thought she felt the baby inside her move. “As well as Annie’s family. Leah is young and at a vulnerable time in her pregnancy right now. I consider her to be my family as well as one of my patients.” Samuel stepped closer and lowered his voice. “You will not speak rudely to her again. You will not devalue her in any way. If you have a difference of opinion with Eli, or any business matter that needs settling, you will save it—“
“But he—“
“You will save it for the proper time and place, which is not my home or any home on Sunday.” Rachel’s face blushed red.
Couple #2 is also very much in love, but they have a much better understanding of one another. He is in tune with her without saying anything, he is patient and considerate of her during her pregnancy, and most of all he is both affectionate and sensitive of her needs. This mom-to-be is fully enjoying her life as a new bride and she glows with the blessing of her husband and pregnancy. She also is struggling with fulfilling a task before her best friend’s baby is due, but she has strength she’s not even aware of in helping her sister become a new mom.
When Leah is hospitalized during her pregnancy, she gets the rest she needs and learns to focus more on God’s will than the circumstances around her. As Annie decides what steps to take with the quilting, she never leaves Leah’s side. Together, these precious friends/sisters see the hand of God and discover something much more important in this task than they could’ve imagined.
There’s a minor character in the story named Mrs. Grant, which is also my mom’s name, so I considered that very nice!
As always, Chapman does a brilliant job of mixing both the Amish and Englischers in this story and there are even a few characters from the first book that make appearances in the sequel! The way the Amish come together to help one another is both an enhancement and a treasure added into the plot that just makes the story that much more precious. I also really loved what Annie and Samuel name their baby, it was the perfect ending in another beautiful story! Readers who enjoy Chapman’s work will be utterly satisfied with The Christmas Quilt and the miracle of the season itself.
I want to thank the author and publisher for the review copy I received. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
This book is the much anticipated sequel to Chapman’s A Simple Amish Christmas. Annie is now a newlywed and pregnant with their first boppli, but she’s not the only one! Leah, her best friend, and sister-in-law (although Leah is married to Annie’s brother, she’s more like a sister than an in-law) is also newly married to Adam and expecting their first boppli as well. It was interesting to see the difference in these two couples.
Couple #1 is very much in love, but then the pregnancy is a complicated one and the mom-to-be is moody and emotional. She’s also insecure and doesn’t understand why her husband gets so annoyed all the time. He works so much that she barely sees him and when she does, they tend to argue all the time. The husband is a wonderful man, but lacks maturity and has trouble communicating properly what he’s thinking. This only leads to frustration for this Amish couple. Being pregnant is supposed to be a joyful time, but this couple is far from rejoicing. Will they be ready when the baby arrives? Will they be able to get past their differences? How will this pregnancy affect their faith?
Pg. 70 “But there are others I care for as well. Annie, of course.” Their eyes met again, and Annie thought she felt the baby inside her move. “As well as Annie’s family. Leah is young and at a vulnerable time in her pregnancy right now. I consider her to be my family as well as one of my patients.” Samuel stepped closer and lowered his voice. “You will not speak rudely to her again. You will not devalue her in any way. If you have a difference of opinion with Eli, or any business matter that needs settling, you will save it—“
“But he—“
“You will save it for the proper time and place, which is not my home or any home on Sunday.” Rachel’s face blushed red.
Couple #2 is also very much in love, but they have a much better understanding of one another. He is in tune with her without saying anything, he is patient and considerate of her during her pregnancy, and most of all he is both affectionate and sensitive of her needs. This mom-to-be is fully enjoying her life as a new bride and she glows with the blessing of her husband and pregnancy. She also is struggling with fulfilling a task before her best friend’s baby is due, but she has strength she’s not even aware of in helping her sister become a new mom.
When Leah is hospitalized during her pregnancy, she gets the rest she needs and learns to focus more on God’s will than the circumstances around her. As Annie decides what steps to take with the quilting, she never leaves Leah’s side. Together, these precious friends/sisters see the hand of God and discover something much more important in this task than they could’ve imagined.
There’s a minor character in the story named Mrs. Grant, which is also my mom’s name, so I considered that very nice!
As always, Chapman does a brilliant job of mixing both the Amish and Englischers in this story and there are even a few characters from the first book that make appearances in the sequel! The way the Amish come together to help one another is both an enhancement and a treasure added into the plot that just makes the story that much more precious. I also really loved what Annie and Samuel name their baby, it was the perfect ending in another beautiful story! Readers who enjoy Chapman’s work will be utterly satisfied with The Christmas Quilt and the miracle of the season itself.
I want to thank the author and publisher for the review copy I received. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 14, 2013
I am not usually a fan of Christmas stories but I know and love
Vannetta Chapman's
writing so knew there was a really good chance I would like The Christmas Quilt. I was close but not quite there. This book is my absolute favorite Christmas novel I have read yet!
This is the story of two Amish women that are not only best friends but sisters-in-law as well. Annie left the Amish to get her nursing degree but returned to her childhood faith and is now happily married. Leah is expecting twins and things seem to be a little distant between her and her husband.
When Leah has to stay in the hospital for an extended period of time Annie stays with her and the two women start working on the crib quilt together. Leah can't do much in that hospital bed so Annie starts telling a story for each block on the quilt. With 9 blocks they decide to tie the stories in with the Fruits Of The Spirit; some of these wonderful stories come from some rather unexpected sources.
No spine-tingling danger or romance, nonetheless this book kept me reading and I hated to put it down. Each of the characters, especially Annie and Leah, became a friend. I hated to finish the book and say goodbye and since I haven't read the previous story featuring these characters it will be fun to visit with them again, or I should say visit with them before.
Don't forget a box of tissues for you tender-hearted ladies. The Christmas Quilt is heartwarming and yet a little bit of a tear-jerker. Sweet with gentle lessons for everyone. Readers will not be disappointed in this lovely Christmas tale.
A gentle and moving story this is a Christmas must-read for any lover of Amish fiction or wonderful stories in general.
(A copy of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of this review. I did not receive any financial compensation for this review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.)
This is the story of two Amish women that are not only best friends but sisters-in-law as well. Annie left the Amish to get her nursing degree but returned to her childhood faith and is now happily married. Leah is expecting twins and things seem to be a little distant between her and her husband.
When Leah has to stay in the hospital for an extended period of time Annie stays with her and the two women start working on the crib quilt together. Leah can't do much in that hospital bed so Annie starts telling a story for each block on the quilt. With 9 blocks they decide to tie the stories in with the Fruits Of The Spirit; some of these wonderful stories come from some rather unexpected sources.
No spine-tingling danger or romance, nonetheless this book kept me reading and I hated to put it down. Each of the characters, especially Annie and Leah, became a friend. I hated to finish the book and say goodbye and since I haven't read the previous story featuring these characters it will be fun to visit with them again, or I should say visit with them before.
Don't forget a box of tissues for you tender-hearted ladies. The Christmas Quilt is heartwarming and yet a little bit of a tear-jerker. Sweet with gentle lessons for everyone. Readers will not be disappointed in this lovely Christmas tale.
A gentle and moving story this is a Christmas must-read for any lover of Amish fiction or wonderful stories in general.
(A copy of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of this review. I did not receive any financial compensation for this review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.)
November 26, 2020
Nice, if very predictable Amish christmas story.
I liked to see a bit into the live of an Amish - and liked that it was one of the more open communities, and not an especially strict one.
As so often in these stories I found all the characters to be just a bit TOO perfect and nice (Amish and English alike).
Never the less I really enjoyed the story and the winter feel it brought about - even if Christmas isn't itself a big topic of the book. (I'd have loved to read about an actual Amish Christmas celebration).
I also found it interesting to see just how different life is if you still do most of your washing, cooking, cleaning and so on yourself, instead of a modern washing machine, tumble dryer, vacuum and electric stove doing most of it...
If you want a look across the cultural boarder and don't mind it to be quite a bit cheesy this might be the perfect read for you. :)
I liked to see a bit into the live of an Amish - and liked that it was one of the more open communities, and not an especially strict one.
As so often in these stories I found all the characters to be just a bit TOO perfect and nice (Amish and English alike).
Never the less I really enjoyed the story and the winter feel it brought about - even if Christmas isn't itself a big topic of the book. (I'd have loved to read about an actual Amish Christmas celebration).
I also found it interesting to see just how different life is if you still do most of your washing, cooking, cleaning and so on yourself, instead of a modern washing machine, tumble dryer, vacuum and electric stove doing most of it...
If you want a look across the cultural boarder and don't mind it to be quite a bit cheesy this might be the perfect read for you. :)
October 3, 2013
The Christmas Quilt is a long-awaited return to the family we visited in A Simple Amish Christmas; Annie and Samuel, Leah and Adam, Rebekah and Jacob. Annie and Leah are anticipating the births of their first children. Annie decides to make a quilt for Leah's twins, and her decision to finish it before the babies are born becomes a mission for her and Leah. There are many nuggets of wisdom in this story for newlyweds, for new parents, for seasoned parents....as we travel this journey with them. Once again Vannetta Chapman has woven God's gifts to us into the fabric of her book, gently guiding the readers into a sweetly simple faith grounded in trust that He knows what He is doing in our lives, and everything we go through will become some sort of blessing.
October 16, 2013
Annie has a bit of a procrastination problem. Whenever she sets out to complete a project, she generally believes she will have more than enough time to complete it, yet each time, she finds herself rushing in an effort to complete it and often times has to ask for the help of others to get her projects complete. However in order to complete the quilt she has promised to make for her best friend, Leah who is expecting twins at the end of December, she honestly believes this time she will have more than enough time to complete it. If she can only find time between working with her husband Samuel, as one of the only certified Amish nurses as he makes his rounds as the town's herbalist and healer. She also lends a hand with the Amish mid-wife Belinda whenever she has need of her skills, along with herself being pregnant and expecting their first baby.
When an unexpected call in the early morning hours to Annie and Samuel warrant their medical assistance with Leah, who has gone into premature labor, she knows that without proper medical help at an English hospital, Leah may lose both of the babies. She learns that if Leah wants any chance at all at bringing her babies into this world healthy, she must remain for as long as she can in a hospital in Philadelphia that specializes in the very medical issue that Leah is facing. But how can Leah remain in the hospital while her marriage seems to be eroding between her and Adam? It was one thing before when it seemed that they might find a way to work through the issue of the growing separation between Leah and Adam, but now with miles separating them, is there hope they can work to make things right between them, even though they can't be together?
In the novel The Christmas Quilt by best selling author Vannetta Chapman, the true test of what love truly means is placed before not only Leah and Adam but for their families as well. With Leah's own health and that of her unborn babies being at the forefront of everyone living in the town of Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, it teaches each of them just how precious life really is and that none of us are guaranteed any amount of time here on earth. Those that believe they will have time to work things out another day are placed before the fire to take hold of the present and realize what a gift time truly is. This is the 11th novel in the Quilts of Love series and each can be read as a stand alone novel.
I received The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman compliments of Abingdon Press and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are my own. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and for those that love a Christmas theme to their standard Amish romance stories, than this is truly one you won't want to miss. Each of the pieces of the quilt that Annie begins to piece together tell the meaning and stories behind each of the nine fruit of the spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, self control, and gentleness as a reminder of what our lives should look like to others as believers in Christ. A discussion guide is included as well as a sneak peek into Ahola Rose, the 12th book in the Quilts of Love series.
When an unexpected call in the early morning hours to Annie and Samuel warrant their medical assistance with Leah, who has gone into premature labor, she knows that without proper medical help at an English hospital, Leah may lose both of the babies. She learns that if Leah wants any chance at all at bringing her babies into this world healthy, she must remain for as long as she can in a hospital in Philadelphia that specializes in the very medical issue that Leah is facing. But how can Leah remain in the hospital while her marriage seems to be eroding between her and Adam? It was one thing before when it seemed that they might find a way to work through the issue of the growing separation between Leah and Adam, but now with miles separating them, is there hope they can work to make things right between them, even though they can't be together?
In the novel The Christmas Quilt by best selling author Vannetta Chapman, the true test of what love truly means is placed before not only Leah and Adam but for their families as well. With Leah's own health and that of her unborn babies being at the forefront of everyone living in the town of Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, it teaches each of them just how precious life really is and that none of us are guaranteed any amount of time here on earth. Those that believe they will have time to work things out another day are placed before the fire to take hold of the present and realize what a gift time truly is. This is the 11th novel in the Quilts of Love series and each can be read as a stand alone novel.
I received The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman compliments of Abingdon Press and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are my own. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and for those that love a Christmas theme to their standard Amish romance stories, than this is truly one you won't want to miss. Each of the pieces of the quilt that Annie begins to piece together tell the meaning and stories behind each of the nine fruit of the spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, self control, and gentleness as a reminder of what our lives should look like to others as believers in Christ. A discussion guide is included as well as a sneak peek into Ahola Rose, the 12th book in the Quilts of Love series.
December 8, 2013
The Christmas Quilt is a five star story. It is part of the Quilts Of Love Series by Abingdon Press . This story picks up where “ A Simple Amish Christmas” leaves off.
Annie is happy in her life, helping her husband Simon, The closet thing that the Amish have for a doctor, and Belinda the midwife. Her sister-in-law Leah,(married to her brother, Adam), is expecting twins. Annie wants to make a special quilt for the twins and wants it to be done before they are born! But then Leah gets really sick in the middle of the night and doesn’t get it finished before the twins are born.
I had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen next! The scenes in this book were described so well I could almost believe I was there watching all of this happen!
But God used the fact that the quilt wasn’t finished before Leah was admitted to an English hospital. This story tells about special people that help Leah and Annie learn about the gifts of The Holy Spirit.
The time that Leah is in the hospital teaches Adam and Leah important lessons and brings them closer together. This book teaches that love is unselfish and does things for others.
There are a couple of unexpected romances in this story. If you have read “A Simple Amish Christmas” you will be reunited with Annie’s brother and sisters. Even if you haven’t read “A Simple Amish Christmas” you will love this family and be able to follow along with the story perfectly. However I encourage you to read both of these wonderful stories!
I want to read more about Annie and Simon, Leah and Adam, and the rest of the family.
I was given a free copy of this book by Abingdon Press Fiction for my honest review to be in the 2013 Christmas Blog Tour!
Annie is happy in her life, helping her husband Simon, The closet thing that the Amish have for a doctor, and Belinda the midwife. Her sister-in-law Leah,(married to her brother, Adam), is expecting twins. Annie wants to make a special quilt for the twins and wants it to be done before they are born! But then Leah gets really sick in the middle of the night and doesn’t get it finished before the twins are born.
I had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen next! The scenes in this book were described so well I could almost believe I was there watching all of this happen!
But God used the fact that the quilt wasn’t finished before Leah was admitted to an English hospital. This story tells about special people that help Leah and Annie learn about the gifts of The Holy Spirit.
The time that Leah is in the hospital teaches Adam and Leah important lessons and brings them closer together. This book teaches that love is unselfish and does things for others.
There are a couple of unexpected romances in this story. If you have read “A Simple Amish Christmas” you will be reunited with Annie’s brother and sisters. Even if you haven’t read “A Simple Amish Christmas” you will love this family and be able to follow along with the story perfectly. However I encourage you to read both of these wonderful stories!
I want to read more about Annie and Simon, Leah and Adam, and the rest of the family.
I was given a free copy of this book by Abingdon Press Fiction for my honest review to be in the 2013 Christmas Blog Tour!
January 3, 2018
A lovely story of two young couples in the first few years of marriage, set around the holidays. Anticipating the birth of twins, Leah and Adam struggle with the anxiety and change that comes with starting a family. When complications arise, Annie steps in to help with her nursing skills and encouragement. This story follows closely after A Simple Amish Christmas, but was easy to follow with the quick background filled in.
Anyone who has experienced a difficult pregnancy and trouble communicating in their marriage, will have a lot to relate to in Leah and Adam's story. I loved the idea that Annie and Leah had with focusing on the Fruit of the Spirit while making each quilt square, and the stories that went with each one. It was a lovely way to meditate on God's word and promises in the midst of a difficult time. I went back and read Annie and Samuel's story in A Simple Amish Christmas and enjoyed it also. It was interesting to learn how the community supports each other, financially even when necessary. It was like a glimpse at the early church.
Recommend to readers who like a well-written, character driven story with a Christian message.
(Thank you to the author for the book. All opinions are my own.)
Anyone who has experienced a difficult pregnancy and trouble communicating in their marriage, will have a lot to relate to in Leah and Adam's story. I loved the idea that Annie and Leah had with focusing on the Fruit of the Spirit while making each quilt square, and the stories that went with each one. It was a lovely way to meditate on God's word and promises in the midst of a difficult time. I went back and read Annie and Samuel's story in A Simple Amish Christmas and enjoyed it also. It was interesting to learn how the community supports each other, financially even when necessary. It was like a glimpse at the early church.
Recommend to readers who like a well-written, character driven story with a Christian message.
(Thank you to the author for the book. All opinions are my own.)
October 15, 2013
What a wonderful book. This book takes place three years after Annie left the community on her rumspringa to become a nurse. She later returned and married Samuel Yoder and together they meet the medical needs of their amish community. Annie's good friend and sister-in-law is pregnant with twins. They are very close and Annie goes with Leah to the hospital when Leah goes into premature labor. Annie is int he process of making Leah a baby quilt that is not quite ready. Leah has to stay in the hospital until the babies are born. Together Leah and Annie work on the quilt and mix stories of each block with family, patience, faith and love. This is a beautifully written story and Vannetta Chapman has done an excellent job.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
October 5, 2013
If The Christmas Quilt is your first Vannetta Chapman book, be warned, it will not be your last! This book follows A Simple Amish Christmas but is a stand-alone book. Vannetta has a unique way of weaving you into the lives of the characters in her books. The Christmas Quilt easily continues the lives of Leah & Adam and Annie & Samuel. Two things that impressed me the most is the reminder that ‘the Lord is our (my) strength and that it’s important to listen not only with our ears but our hearts as well. Leah & Annie share a common goal in their love of family. This is a great book to give as gifts during the Christmas season that can be read & re-read throughout the year. A definite must-read for Amish fiction lovers!
November 7, 2013
Oh I enjoyed this book thoroughly, I had read the first book where Annie was a nurse and so this follow-up book was very good. Vannetta Chapman really impressed me with her story telling ability. I enjoyed the stories with in the story and it really made the book over the top for me. A great book, you will not want to miss.
I loved the character of Leah and was often wanting to come to her defense as her husband stumbled his way through growing up. And of course Annie is as lovable as before and it is interesting to see where her life has gone from the last book.
Another great story in this Quilts of Love Series!
4.5 stars.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
I loved the character of Leah and was often wanting to come to her defense as her husband stumbled his way through growing up. And of course Annie is as lovable as before and it is interesting to see where her life has gone from the last book.
Another great story in this Quilts of Love Series!
4.5 stars.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
August 29, 2014
The Christmas Quilt by Vanetta Chapman charmed me with her believable and endearing characters, Leah and Belinda and their husbands. I am not a person who reads a lot of Amish novels, but the cover intrigued me and I'm glad I decided to read it. Vanetta's voice as an author is so readable that I felt comfortable right away in her story. The Christian content also flowed with story and felt so natural. The only element I wished Vanetta had spent more time on was the romance between the single mother storekeeper Rachel Zook and the older man she began to care for. That was prominent at the beginning but was merely in passing by the end. I wanted to know why the woman changed so. Except for that, I'd recommend this to anyone who enjoys Amish romance or sweet romance in general.
October 18, 2013
The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman is a story that not only touches your heart, but holds it. We are reunited with characters whom we already love, having met them in A Simple Amish Christmas. The quilt becomes so much more than material being stitched together; it is a story in itself that evolves into 9 stories told within the framework of their lives. These two ‘sisters’ who take this journey with the giving and receiving of love and strength are held together by the end as strongly as those stitches. Reading this heartwarming tale will be a Christmas gift to yourself!
October 9, 2013
This is a sequel to Vanettas first book I ever read by her.It's a tender story of a mother struggling to bring healthy babies into the world.It's Story of healing a marriage and tells the story of the meaning of the quilt as they sewed. I recommend this as you will find meaning of Christmas in this .
October 31, 2013
A wonderful Christmas story!!
November 10, 2023
The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman is a heartwarming tale. I like Vannetta Chapman’s writing style. It is engaging and friendly. I enjoyed getting to know more about Annie, Samuel, Adam, and Leah. Leah is in the third trimester of her pregnancy with twins. Leah feels like an overstuffed sausage casing and her emotions are bouncing all over the place. Communication between Adam and Leah has broken down leaving each one with doubts. Pregnancy complications add more stress to their marriage. Samuel and Annie’s marriage is the opposite of Adam and Leah’s. Annie and Samuel use their medical knowledge to serve their community. They have a loving marriage. Annie is also pregnant, and the couple is eager to welcome the newest addition to their family. Annie and Leah get to spend some time together. They work together on a quilt for the twins while discussing the Bible and issues of faith. I like how the Amish come together to help each other in times of need. We get to catch up with the characters from when Annie was working at Mercy Hospital. There are some special doctors and nurses at that hospital. The Christmas Quilt is the eleventh book in the Quilts of Love series. It can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend reading A Simple Amish Christmas. There are good life lessons in this story. Make sure to have a tissue handy while reading this one. The Christmas Quilt is an emotional tale about patience, friendship, family, friendship, love, and faith.
December 17, 2013
There’s a nice line in The Christmas Quilt that describes the book perfectly: “[Stories] involve you in another’s life, but our road only intersects theirs for a time.” The story is a sweet peek into the characters’ lives at a slow pace, like taking the panoramic route on a road trip. It makes you stop and think about the details we miss in our daily lives, giving us a lesson in appreciating every small blessing. The author, as always, writes a tender story with a great attention to detail, each scene blending into the next, each situation serving a purpose, adding richly to the story.
As well as in Mrs. Chapman’s other novels, you can immediately see the sweetness of each character, even of those who appear rude and unlikable in the beginning. Annie is so level headed and mature; Samuel is incredibly sweet to her. Leah and Adam, on the other hand, are quick to react, and on the defensive, very much like teenagers in the beginning. But their spiritual and emotional growth throughout the book is fantastic. Although they are all main characters, the book really belongs to Leah and Adam. You see them change, mature and give a wonderful about face in their relationship.
But the secondary characters also grab the spotlight if even for a split second, and here lies my one and only frustration with the story: these characters are so well written, their backstories so intriguing, that they each deserved at least a more satisfying side story. Rachel, Onkel Eli, and Reba would have added much more to the story had their stories been explored more. Rachel, in particular, was a wonderfully complex character in her relationship with her children and the people around her. I count her as a great missed opportunity in the book. Each of these characters had great stories of their own that could have made the story and its slow pace much more interesting.
As an Amish fiction, Amish wisdom is expected, and sometimes that predictability can be tiresome, mostly because authors tend to overuse Amish proverbs or make their characters so wise that they seem unreal. But Mrs. Chapman does a great job of showing us wisdom in almost every character in a very organic way. It’s the way they live, the way they face difficult situations, the way they see struggles and God’s hand in everything. Not every book of fiction can say this, but The Christmas Quilt is a great lesson in finding wisdom through our spiritual journey, growing in the fruit of the Spirit.
Also, there are instances of beautiful emotional and spiritual intimacy, such as an incredibly touching moment between Leah and Adam when the two of them became of one mind and heart over the Word of God, that left me speechless. It’s a great story about growing up spiritually and emotionally, showing grace to one another, and trusting God’s timing.
Although this is the second book of the series, the author does a great job of weaving the story interlacing past details with new ones so that you don’t feel lost or left out. But, nevertheless, I highly recommend reading the first book, A Simple Amish Christmas, which is my favorite Amish fiction book so far.
4 stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publishers through The Christian Manifesto in exchange of an honest review.
As well as in Mrs. Chapman’s other novels, you can immediately see the sweetness of each character, even of those who appear rude and unlikable in the beginning. Annie is so level headed and mature; Samuel is incredibly sweet to her. Leah and Adam, on the other hand, are quick to react, and on the defensive, very much like teenagers in the beginning. But their spiritual and emotional growth throughout the book is fantastic. Although they are all main characters, the book really belongs to Leah and Adam. You see them change, mature and give a wonderful about face in their relationship.
But the secondary characters also grab the spotlight if even for a split second, and here lies my one and only frustration with the story: these characters are so well written, their backstories so intriguing, that they each deserved at least a more satisfying side story. Rachel, Onkel Eli, and Reba would have added much more to the story had their stories been explored more. Rachel, in particular, was a wonderfully complex character in her relationship with her children and the people around her. I count her as a great missed opportunity in the book. Each of these characters had great stories of their own that could have made the story and its slow pace much more interesting.
As an Amish fiction, Amish wisdom is expected, and sometimes that predictability can be tiresome, mostly because authors tend to overuse Amish proverbs or make their characters so wise that they seem unreal. But Mrs. Chapman does a great job of showing us wisdom in almost every character in a very organic way. It’s the way they live, the way they face difficult situations, the way they see struggles and God’s hand in everything. Not every book of fiction can say this, but The Christmas Quilt is a great lesson in finding wisdom through our spiritual journey, growing in the fruit of the Spirit.
Also, there are instances of beautiful emotional and spiritual intimacy, such as an incredibly touching moment between Leah and Adam when the two of them became of one mind and heart over the Word of God, that left me speechless. It’s a great story about growing up spiritually and emotionally, showing grace to one another, and trusting God’s timing.
Although this is the second book of the series, the author does a great job of weaving the story interlacing past details with new ones so that you don’t feel lost or left out. But, nevertheless, I highly recommend reading the first book, A Simple Amish Christmas, which is my favorite Amish fiction book so far.
4 stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publishers through The Christian Manifesto in exchange of an honest review.
August 21, 2014
About the Book:
Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself delivering the buggy to her brother Adam. Annie s sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the "boppli" arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.
About the Author:
Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania.
Her novel, Falling to Pieces, was a 2012 ACFW Carol Award winner for best mystery. All of her books have been Christian Book Distributor bestsellers. She currently writes Amish fiction for Abingdon Press, Zondervan, and Harvest House. Chapman lives in the Texas hill country with her husband.
For more information, visit her at www.VannettaChapman.com or blog with her at http://vannettachapman.wordpress.com/. She can also be found at http://www.facebook.com/VannettaChapman.
My Review:
Slipping into a great Amish read with a Christmas twist has definitely been on my list for relaxing this season. You will feel the same way to when you read, The Christmas Quilt by beloved author Vannetta Chapman. She is as sweet and neighborly as her books and writings make you feel. The Christmas Quilt takes you back to the characters from its prequel A Simple Amish Christmas, now three years later with Annie and Leah both expecting. But the story seems to center more around Leah and the hormonal changes she is going through with the twins that are due very soon.
But as the book before it this one is not without some excitement along the way. Vannetta wasn't going to let us off that easily without some sparks, and sparks do fly. Jesse and Mattie show up at Samuel and Annie's home with Jesse in the middle of a health issue. But their teamwork seems to pay off and all seem to make it through. It's not long before we are all enlightened into what is troubling Adam and Leah and my heart just aches for them. Pregnancy is hard enough as it is but when you and your spouse are at odds that brings a special kind of trouble all its own.
Annie has started a baby quilt for Leah that she is sure she will have done before the babies arrive, but things don't really go as planned and Leah has been put in the hospital so the girls finish the quilt together. But that isn't where the story ends at all. The author has done a great job as always and has tied this book up with a neat little bow perfect for the holidays.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself delivering the buggy to her brother Adam. Annie s sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the "boppli" arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.
About the Author:
Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania.
Her novel, Falling to Pieces, was a 2012 ACFW Carol Award winner for best mystery. All of her books have been Christian Book Distributor bestsellers. She currently writes Amish fiction for Abingdon Press, Zondervan, and Harvest House. Chapman lives in the Texas hill country with her husband.
For more information, visit her at www.VannettaChapman.com or blog with her at http://vannettachapman.wordpress.com/. She can also be found at http://www.facebook.com/VannettaChapman.
My Review:
Slipping into a great Amish read with a Christmas twist has definitely been on my list for relaxing this season. You will feel the same way to when you read, The Christmas Quilt by beloved author Vannetta Chapman. She is as sweet and neighborly as her books and writings make you feel. The Christmas Quilt takes you back to the characters from its prequel A Simple Amish Christmas, now three years later with Annie and Leah both expecting. But the story seems to center more around Leah and the hormonal changes she is going through with the twins that are due very soon.
But as the book before it this one is not without some excitement along the way. Vannetta wasn't going to let us off that easily without some sparks, and sparks do fly. Jesse and Mattie show up at Samuel and Annie's home with Jesse in the middle of a health issue. But their teamwork seems to pay off and all seem to make it through. It's not long before we are all enlightened into what is troubling Adam and Leah and my heart just aches for them. Pregnancy is hard enough as it is but when you and your spouse are at odds that brings a special kind of trouble all its own.
Annie has started a baby quilt for Leah that she is sure she will have done before the babies arrive, but things don't really go as planned and Leah has been put in the hospital so the girls finish the quilt together. But that isn't where the story ends at all. The author has done a great job as always and has tied this book up with a neat little bow perfect for the holidays.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
August 25, 2015
The Christmas Quilt: Quilts of Love Series by Vannetta Chapman*****
This story follows the book: A Simple Amish Christmas were Annie Weaver became a nurse during her Rumspringa (or running around time) and has returned home to Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. She has married her long time friend Samuel Yoder, who is a herbalist-healer and together they provide medical care for their community.
Annie's sister-in-law, Leah and Annie are both expecting their first child. However, Leah is expecting twins. Annie plans on making a crib-quilt for one of Leah's bopplin (babies) as her mother is making the other twin a crib-quilt. But Annie is slow on getting fabrics and needed supplies for the quilt together, but feels she has plenty of time to complete it long before the twins arrive.
Before Annie gets started good on the quilt, Leah goes into premature labor and is taken to the hospital. When complications threaten the lives of the babies and mother she is transferred to Mercy Hospital in Philadelphia on the neonatal intensive care unit. Annie once worked at Mercy Hospital before she returned home. For the next 6 weeks or so, Leah is on bed rest until her twins can be safely delivered. Leah's husband, Adam is unable to stay for that long and returns home to care for the dairy farm but is thankful his sister Annie will be staying with Leah. During the weeks and long hours waiting, Annie and Leah work on the crib-quilt. While working on the quilt, they tell stories for each of the quilt squares that will be part of the quilt. Each story/quilt square represents a different aspect of the “fruits of the Spirit” found in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, goodness and self-control. Along with prayer and discussions their faith is strengthened as is their bond.
This is a beautifully woven Amish romance; the characters lives are intertwined in such a way they are “stitched”-together and each has an impact on the others. We read of their stressful circumstances, questions of faith, problems in a marriage, pregnancy complications, healing, forgiveness, family bonding, patience, faith and love all sewn together to make a lovely “living-quilt” of love and promise. I loved the way the “fruits of the Spirit” were woven into this very special quilt and ultimately into the lives of Annie, Leah, their families and the readers, forever reminding them/us of God's love. I loved this story and the way Vannetta draws the reader into the story, making the characters come alive with each page.
This story follows the book: A Simple Amish Christmas were Annie Weaver became a nurse during her Rumspringa (or running around time) and has returned home to Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. She has married her long time friend Samuel Yoder, who is a herbalist-healer and together they provide medical care for their community.
Annie's sister-in-law, Leah and Annie are both expecting their first child. However, Leah is expecting twins. Annie plans on making a crib-quilt for one of Leah's bopplin (babies) as her mother is making the other twin a crib-quilt. But Annie is slow on getting fabrics and needed supplies for the quilt together, but feels she has plenty of time to complete it long before the twins arrive.
Before Annie gets started good on the quilt, Leah goes into premature labor and is taken to the hospital. When complications threaten the lives of the babies and mother she is transferred to Mercy Hospital in Philadelphia on the neonatal intensive care unit. Annie once worked at Mercy Hospital before she returned home. For the next 6 weeks or so, Leah is on bed rest until her twins can be safely delivered. Leah's husband, Adam is unable to stay for that long and returns home to care for the dairy farm but is thankful his sister Annie will be staying with Leah. During the weeks and long hours waiting, Annie and Leah work on the crib-quilt. While working on the quilt, they tell stories for each of the quilt squares that will be part of the quilt. Each story/quilt square represents a different aspect of the “fruits of the Spirit” found in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, goodness and self-control. Along with prayer and discussions their faith is strengthened as is their bond.
This is a beautifully woven Amish romance; the characters lives are intertwined in such a way they are “stitched”-together and each has an impact on the others. We read of their stressful circumstances, questions of faith, problems in a marriage, pregnancy complications, healing, forgiveness, family bonding, patience, faith and love all sewn together to make a lovely “living-quilt” of love and promise. I loved the way the “fruits of the Spirit” were woven into this very special quilt and ultimately into the lives of Annie, Leah, their families and the readers, forever reminding them/us of God's love. I loved this story and the way Vannetta draws the reader into the story, making the characters come alive with each page.
October 15, 2013
The Christmas Quilt, Quilts of Love Series by Vannetta Chapman
Wanted to read this book because I've read most of the other books in the series and they are so varied-kept my interest. Love the holiday and have made one quilt for Christmas that I only bring out at that time.
Pregnant Amish woman with some modern technology that helps with the medical problems that arise.
The book really concentrates on the concerns the Leah, the mother has, fears that her husband doesn't love her, etc. very hormonal. Leah goes on about her life and does the laundry and hangs it outside where it's cold.
Her friend has had a baby earlier and is attempting to find time to actually make her friends new babies a quilt with Sunbonnet Sue and Overall Sam on blocks as she's having twins. The very detailed layout, picking of right pattern, colors of the quilt are described.
And the washing due to bleeding of the colors. While at the hospital she gets some yarn and starts crocheting a blanket, yellow for either a boy or a girl baby.
Modern technology also we take for granted today=sonogram. Sad they don't believe in pictures of infants.
Love that Annie is able to tell her a story for each of the Dutch children on the quilt. Some are about her early days at the hospital, some are passages from God. There are quite a few scriptures quoted that go along with the story line.
Love the nine patch and the color sequences and I can just picture them in my mind. Thanksgiving day and the doctor pays a visit and tells them why and he has a story to share to help with the quilt making.
The stories have themes of the nine fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, etc stories of the fruits of God's spirit.
The community comes together to help pay the hospital bill and it's amazing what people can do with their hands!
Comes with a glossary of foreign words so you can follow the story, discussion questions and an excerpt from the next Quilts of Love book=Aloha Rose.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
Wanted to read this book because I've read most of the other books in the series and they are so varied-kept my interest. Love the holiday and have made one quilt for Christmas that I only bring out at that time.
Pregnant Amish woman with some modern technology that helps with the medical problems that arise.
The book really concentrates on the concerns the Leah, the mother has, fears that her husband doesn't love her, etc. very hormonal. Leah goes on about her life and does the laundry and hangs it outside where it's cold.
Her friend has had a baby earlier and is attempting to find time to actually make her friends new babies a quilt with Sunbonnet Sue and Overall Sam on blocks as she's having twins. The very detailed layout, picking of right pattern, colors of the quilt are described.
And the washing due to bleeding of the colors. While at the hospital she gets some yarn and starts crocheting a blanket, yellow for either a boy or a girl baby.
Modern technology also we take for granted today=sonogram. Sad they don't believe in pictures of infants.
Love that Annie is able to tell her a story for each of the Dutch children on the quilt. Some are about her early days at the hospital, some are passages from God. There are quite a few scriptures quoted that go along with the story line.
Love the nine patch and the color sequences and I can just picture them in my mind. Thanksgiving day and the doctor pays a visit and tells them why and he has a story to share to help with the quilt making.
The stories have themes of the nine fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, etc stories of the fruits of God's spirit.
The community comes together to help pay the hospital bill and it's amazing what people can do with their hands!
Comes with a glossary of foreign words so you can follow the story, discussion questions and an excerpt from the next Quilts of Love book=Aloha Rose.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
October 19, 2013
Title: THE CHRISTMAS QUILT
Author: Vannetta Chapman
Publisher: Abingdon Press
October 2013
ISBN: 978-1426752773
Genre: Amish / Christmas
Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself taking the buggy to her brother Adam’s home.
Annie’s sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.
THE CHRISTMAS QUILT is part of Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series, yet it is a sequel to Ms. Chapman’s first Amish novel with Abingdon, A Simple Amish Christmas. It was nice to catch up with the characters in that series.
Both Annie and Leah are expecting babies – Leah, twins. But when an unhappy sister-in-law, marital problems between Leah and Adam, and other issues to deal with, the weeks following Thanksgiving are anything but peaceful. Instead, family strife rules, emotions erupt, and everything is harder than it needs to be.
I did enjoy reading THE CHRISTMAS QUILT, but the ending was rather odd. I won’t give any spoilers, but it seemed that a big part of the story went unaddressed and unsettled. It may be that Ms. Chapman has another book planned to answer the questions that readers will have. Or it may be that she’s leaving it to our imagination. I don’t know. I do know that both my daughters and another family friend who borrowed the book before I had a chance to read it, commented on it, and when I read the book today I saw what they meant. It felt unfinished.
However, it was a sweet Amish Christmas story. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $12.99. 256 pages.
Author: Vannetta Chapman
Publisher: Abingdon Press
October 2013
ISBN: 978-1426752773
Genre: Amish / Christmas
Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself taking the buggy to her brother Adam’s home.
Annie’s sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.
THE CHRISTMAS QUILT is part of Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series, yet it is a sequel to Ms. Chapman’s first Amish novel with Abingdon, A Simple Amish Christmas. It was nice to catch up with the characters in that series.
Both Annie and Leah are expecting babies – Leah, twins. But when an unhappy sister-in-law, marital problems between Leah and Adam, and other issues to deal with, the weeks following Thanksgiving are anything but peaceful. Instead, family strife rules, emotions erupt, and everything is harder than it needs to be.
I did enjoy reading THE CHRISTMAS QUILT, but the ending was rather odd. I won’t give any spoilers, but it seemed that a big part of the story went unaddressed and unsettled. It may be that Ms. Chapman has another book planned to answer the questions that readers will have. Or it may be that she’s leaving it to our imagination. I don’t know. I do know that both my daughters and another family friend who borrowed the book before I had a chance to read it, commented on it, and when I read the book today I saw what they meant. It felt unfinished.
However, it was a sweet Amish Christmas story. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $12.99. 256 pages.
November 20, 2013
I'm not a big fan of Amish novels, but that mindset is quickly changing as I have read books like "The Christmas Quilt"! When I originally saw this novel I wanted to read it because I LOVE the cover! I thought it was adorable and just had to find a way to discover this story!
"The Christmas Quilt" was nothing short of a beautiful love story between two married couples and the joy of having children as well as the support of true family! I absolutely loved the overall story of the making of the quilt concerning the fruits of the Spirit! I'm currently teaching a group of girls at church about the fruits of the Spirit and reading about these fruits as the quilt was being made took on a whole new concept for me! There is something always to be joyful or thankful for in every situation as Leah and Adam learn!
Beside the awesome quilt making with godly lessons, I really enjoyed this Amish story as a whole! I felt it was different and unique in the birthing process that Leah experiences as an Amish woman. Plus I sometimes perceive that in stories about the Amish and their ways of life that they are so perfect and peaceful, making it hard for me to relate too. However in this story that is not true and I appreciated that. It really brought the Amish culture to life for me since some of the main characters had struggles like I do which helped me to understand and relate to them.
Annie might have not completed the quilt for Leah in the timing she expected, but as the reader journeys with her in the completion of it, perfect love blossoms at it's fullest and a new, kindled relationship with the Lord grows for each character! I give this novel 4.5 out of 5 stars!
*I received this book for free from Litfuse and Abingdon Press in exchange for a honest review! All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review!*
"The Christmas Quilt" was nothing short of a beautiful love story between two married couples and the joy of having children as well as the support of true family! I absolutely loved the overall story of the making of the quilt concerning the fruits of the Spirit! I'm currently teaching a group of girls at church about the fruits of the Spirit and reading about these fruits as the quilt was being made took on a whole new concept for me! There is something always to be joyful or thankful for in every situation as Leah and Adam learn!
Beside the awesome quilt making with godly lessons, I really enjoyed this Amish story as a whole! I felt it was different and unique in the birthing process that Leah experiences as an Amish woman. Plus I sometimes perceive that in stories about the Amish and their ways of life that they are so perfect and peaceful, making it hard for me to relate too. However in this story that is not true and I appreciated that. It really brought the Amish culture to life for me since some of the main characters had struggles like I do which helped me to understand and relate to them.
Annie might have not completed the quilt for Leah in the timing she expected, but as the reader journeys with her in the completion of it, perfect love blossoms at it's fullest and a new, kindled relationship with the Lord grows for each character! I give this novel 4.5 out of 5 stars!
*I received this book for free from Litfuse and Abingdon Press in exchange for a honest review! All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review!*
August 12, 2016
In The Christmas Quilt, we revisit the characters and community first introduced by Vannetta Chapman in A Simple Amish Christmas. I loved returning to Mifflin County, Pennsylvania and catching up with this special Amish community!
Samuel and Annie Yoder continue to help the community with their medical needs. Expecting their first child, they are eager to share the experience of parenthood with Annie’s brother and sister-in-law, Adam and Leah Weaver. Leah is pregnant with twins and due to deliver before Christmas.
While Annie pregnancy has been a smooth experience, Leah has experienced some emotional and physical difficulties. When Leah goes into early labor, Annie hurries to her side and convinces her that going to an Englisch hospital is best.
As they wait for the arrival of the twins, Annie and Leah begin working on a nine-patch crib quilt for the babies. As they work on each square, they pray together and share stories inspired by the fruits of the Spirit. What started as way to fill the time begins to hold a far greater significance!
The Christmas Quilt is a wonderful story of faith and beautifully illustrates the fruits of the Spirit. I love The Christmas Quilt and would love to visit the residents of Mifflin County again!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Abingdon Press. All thoughts expressed are my own and no monetary compensation was received.
Samuel and Annie Yoder continue to help the community with their medical needs. Expecting their first child, they are eager to share the experience of parenthood with Annie’s brother and sister-in-law, Adam and Leah Weaver. Leah is pregnant with twins and due to deliver before Christmas.
While Annie pregnancy has been a smooth experience, Leah has experienced some emotional and physical difficulties. When Leah goes into early labor, Annie hurries to her side and convinces her that going to an Englisch hospital is best.
As they wait for the arrival of the twins, Annie and Leah begin working on a nine-patch crib quilt for the babies. As they work on each square, they pray together and share stories inspired by the fruits of the Spirit. What started as way to fill the time begins to hold a far greater significance!
The Christmas Quilt is a wonderful story of faith and beautifully illustrates the fruits of the Spirit. I love The Christmas Quilt and would love to visit the residents of Mifflin County again!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Abingdon Press. All thoughts expressed are my own and no monetary compensation was received.
October 25, 2013
This is a wonderful novel that will stay in your heart well after you have turned the last page. A must-read for anyone who wants that warm, hug-your-loved-ones-a-bit-closer, feeling that only the best books can bring. Readers will feel for the Amish couple, Leah and Adam as they watch them struggle through a difficult pregnancy all the while losing the one person that each of them wishes he/she could hold closer. When early labor threatens to take everything away, this wonderful couple must reassess their faith in each other, as well as in God.
The highlight of this story, for me, came in the quilt that Leah and her sister-in-law, Annie, make for the babies, all the while attaching stories from their life and experiences, and pouring love into each stitch. I was touched by this story, and these characters, and was left feeling as though my life was put back into perspective.
Although this is a follow-up to Ms. Chapman’s, A Simple Amish Christmas, it reads well alone (although the previous book is also wonderful). If you are a mother, or simply in need of some non-glitzy Christmas cheer, pick up this novel, and settle in for a true, feel-good read.
The highlight of this story, for me, came in the quilt that Leah and her sister-in-law, Annie, make for the babies, all the while attaching stories from their life and experiences, and pouring love into each stitch. I was touched by this story, and these characters, and was left feeling as though my life was put back into perspective.
Although this is a follow-up to Ms. Chapman’s, A Simple Amish Christmas, it reads well alone (although the previous book is also wonderful). If you are a mother, or simply in need of some non-glitzy Christmas cheer, pick up this novel, and settle in for a true, feel-good read.
March 27, 2015
The Christmas Quilt: Quilts of Love
by, Vannetta Chapman
The Christmas Quilt is a sequel to Simple Amish Christmas. It is also a book in Quilts of Love and they can be read along. I did not have any problems following the story or the characters.
They was some things that drew me to The Christmas Quilt , I am a quilter and I love Chapman’s books. I have not read any of her books that I did not love. While I was reading this story I laughed and cried with them. I could not read fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. There are two Amish Ladies who are both expecting their first child. There is a quilt being made in this story and I love that each quilt square is connected to Scripture and a story. I love that Chapman has weaved God’s work throughout the story, and a lesson learning to trust and rely on God. I really enjoyed this story and I know you will too. Thanks Vannetta Chapman for another good one.
I was given this book by the author for my honest review which I have given.
by, Vannetta Chapman
The Christmas Quilt is a sequel to Simple Amish Christmas. It is also a book in Quilts of Love and they can be read along. I did not have any problems following the story or the characters.
They was some things that drew me to The Christmas Quilt , I am a quilter and I love Chapman’s books. I have not read any of her books that I did not love. While I was reading this story I laughed and cried with them. I could not read fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. There are two Amish Ladies who are both expecting their first child. There is a quilt being made in this story and I love that each quilt square is connected to Scripture and a story. I love that Chapman has weaved God’s work throughout the story, and a lesson learning to trust and rely on God. I really enjoyed this story and I know you will too. Thanks Vannetta Chapman for another good one.
I was given this book by the author for my honest review which I have given.
November 20, 2013
I could really relate to Leah’s story in “The Christmas Quilt” because she’s due to deliver twins, something I was also about to do ten years ago! Leah is hoping for a home birth, like many Amish women have, but her complicated twin pregnancy (a common occurrence) makes a hospital delivery necessary. Leah’s sister-in-law, Annie, is also expecting a child, and so the two women are both learning to find their way as young married women and expectant mothers. I found Leah and Adam’s fears about being good parents and being able to sustain their love for each other to be very realistic. Both women discover that love isn’t always enough; communication and faith are also necessary ingredients for strong and successful marriages. I really loved “The Christmas Quilt,” a must-read for fans of Amish fiction and great stories!
October 14, 2013
Annie's friend Leah is pregnant with twins.Leah is also married to Annie's brother Adam.Adam and Leah has been having some problems and has not been as close as they once were.As Annie starts the quilt,a medical emergency sends Leah to the hospital.She is admitted and must stay until the birth of her babies.Annie volunteers to stay with Leah at the hospital.She takes along the quilt to work on while she sits with Leah,hoping to finish it before the babies arrive.With every block comes a story,an a meaning.As the quilt is worked on,it brings changes to Leah.Leah faces another medical crisis. Leah's and the babies lives are at risk,and the doctors has no choice but to deliver the babies.Christmas brings miracles and the Christmas Quilt brings so much love in every stitch.
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