Review: Dating an Amish Flirt by Rachel J. Good

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

About the Book

Between heavenly homemade bread, irresistible desserts, and stunning crafts, Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Green Valley Farmer’s Market provides warm-hearted community—and love’s surprising possibilities . . .

With her sweet nature and delicate beauty, Rachel Glick attracts boys like bees to a flower—despite her best attempts to discourage them. Downhearted since her beloved brother’s death, and isolated as the sole caretaker to her invalid mother, Rachel would welcome the friendship of other girls. But her unfair reputation as a flirt leaves her snubbed. Yet she’s only ever loved Josh Yoder, her childhood best friend. Why he distanced himself from her in eighth grade, she’ll never understand. And now, though he’s been a blessing doing repairs around her farm, he is courting another girl, so there is no going back . . .

Josh has been in love with Rachel since he was a boy. But he can never forgive himself for hurting her—or for the reason behind it. He can only do his best to lighten her burdens and hope others see her good heart. Still, the sight of her fills him with fresh longing, much as he tries to focus on his girlfriend and forget the past. Yet when jealousy flares, igniting trouble, they both must look to faith to do what’s right—and bring joyous futures for everyone . . .

My Review

This has been a fun series to read and see how the lives intertwine in the close-knit Amish community. Mrs. Vanderberg, a local octogenarian with astoundingly accurate insights into the hearts of her neighbors, is known for her matchmaking abilities and uses her wealth and influence to help solve the problems the couples face. With the title, I anticipated this book to be light hearted, and was surprised with how angsty it was. Rachel is the supposed flirt, but she is actually mired in grief and isolated by the gossip and rumors from the other girls. Josh seems to have it all together, but he is a hot mess of guilt and self-punishment. Their thoughts of regrets and anguish get repetitive and I almost gave up on the book, but pushed through and got to the good stuff when Rachel receives an unexpected surprise and then when Mrs. V gets involved. It was frustrating to see Rachel not stand up for herself or communicate with Josh, and Josh was a bit of an idiot with his relationship with Anna Mary. The surprise that draws them together is a turning point and helps them realize that sharing the truth and giving forgiveness will bring healing and joy.  

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

The Surprised by Love series