When Bridget Behr and her family migrate from a bustling Amish community in Ohio to the remote and isolated Upper Peninsula of Michigan, they’re met with an ugly surprise: the house they had bought sight unseen is an uninhabitable wreck. While her father and brother try to find work in the area, the family is forced to live in tents until the house and barn are rebuilt. Bridget can’t shake the … the guilt that it was her fault her family moved–and is too afraid to trust anyone, especially the flirtatious, overly-friendly Amish man who lives next door.
Gabriel Lapp has made Michigan his home out of necessity, but can’t wait to move back to Florida with its sunshine and warmer temperatures. But when Bridget’s family seeks refuge with Gabe during a fierce thunderstorm, he can’t help but feel a tug of responsibility for them–especially the girl with the dark green eyes.
Just as Bridget is finally settling into friendship, a new life, and maybe even love, a devastating forest fire ravages the county, destroying both land and the Behr’s dreams. Now Bridget and her family must decide: will they leave behind the ashes and start anew in another Amish community? Or will they dare to fight for the future they’d hoped for in Mackinac County?
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Laura has done it again! A sweet, fun, romantic book that touches on the heartstrings. I might be addicted. 🙂
FIRE STORM by Laura V. Hilton is the first book in the The Amish of Mackinac County series. It’s the story of the Behr family’s move from Ohio to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the kindling romance between Bridget Behr (Green Eyes) and Gabriel Lapp (Gabe).
Bridget’s family left Ohio to get away from a stalker who was brazen enough to even invade their home during the night. Hosea felt that since it was a church leader’s relative and won’t handle the situation properly, that moving was his only option to keep his family safe. However, buying land with a home sight unseen proved to be a very bad decision since the house was inhabitable.
Gabe was shipped off, with no explanation, to Michigan by his Dad after he had gotten mixed up the wrong sort of people. Even though he was able to get out of sticky situations, his reputation was tarnished and his thinking was still off kilter. In his new home, he found himself all alone feeling like no one cared and started doubting his faith. Gabe is hardworking and has no problem finding work and even becomes a volunteer fireman.
Gabriel wants fun and adventures. He sure wasn’t looking for a permanent relationship or a steady girl. But he’s immediately smitten with Green Eyes when her family shows up where he is staying late on the night of their arrival needing a place to stay. Bridget is determined not to date unfoundedly feeling that something she did had brought on the unwanted advances that caused their move from Ohio, but she can’t help but notice this man in the green pajama pants that welcomed them to stay the night.
Gabe is instrumental in finding the Behr family shelter, notifying the Bishop of their arrival so that a barn raising can come about and then helps with construction of their new home. This makes him around Bridget more and more which makes them both happy and miserable at the same time.
The relationship between Gabe and Bridget, but also between Gabe and Hosea and between Gabe and his Dad are heartwarming and will keep you turning the pages to see IF or HOW it’s going to work out. You can see Gabe maturing through the pages of the book – both in mind and faith.
Will Gabe’s thrill for adventure mean fun for everyone or will it get them into trouble or injured? Can Gabe chance Hosea’s opinion of him? After disaster strikes, will it mean Bridget leaving Michigan or will she stay?
Laura V. Hilton telling a faith bases story while at the same time showing that the Amish, like all people, are human. We are all less than perfect, struggle to make ends meet, find changes in life or starting over difficult, show compassion for our fellow man, and sometimes struggle to find faith in the face of adversity. Like Gabe, if we pray and keep our eyes upwards, through God all things are possible.
You will love FIRE STORM if you enjoy reading a great Amish story, swoon at a wonderful romance, and thrill to an exciting adventure that keeps you turning pages. Highly recommend FIRE STORM and I know that you will be grabbing the rest of the books in this series after you finish reading this one. Although part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone book.
Firestorm is an action packed story from the very first page, however, Laura gives us much more as I laughed, cried, and even held my breath a few times.
This is the most true to life emotionally filled romantic drama when it comes to Amish fiction that I have ever read. Each character was brought to life with their own distinct personality and issues to deal with. I was totally captivated from the very beginning by Laura’s character, Gabe, as I cannot get the image of his green pajama bottoms out of my mind, which makes me smile every time I think about the opening scene of the story. When it came to Hosea the head of the Behr family I had mixed emotions, but by the end of the story I felt for him with all that had happened.
Visually, Laura set all of the scenes well drawing me even more into the story as if I was member of the community. I easily pictured each and every inch of the nacht-mare house as if I was one of the Behr family upon arrival in the middle of the night. My teeth even chattered due to the frigid cold of the lake and sweat poured down my brow as the heat of the fire drew close.
The only regret I have is that Firestorm is the first book I have read by Laura V. Hilton, but it definitely will not be the last as she is now on my list of favorite Amish fiction writers. My reason for four stars instead of five is because at first it seemed more like a sequel than the beginning of a new series. I kept thinking that the reader should have known more as to why the Behr family left Ohio for those who had not read any of Laura’s previous books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via The Celebrate Lit book tour. All options expressed in this review are completely my own.
Laura Hilton hooked me into this story immediately. From the moment the Behr family arrived at their new home to meeting Gabe Lapp I knew I was in for an entertaining ride.
The characters are complex and the novel has a few side stories that keeps the reader’s interest. Bridget, who has been burned before is not going to let the handsome Gabriel Lapp into her life. She does not date. Period.
Gabe, who is freezing in Michigan after growing up in Florida is the guy you hope to introduce to your younger sister. He is nice, funny and will help you in any way he can. He is popular with the young ladies but nobody sparks his interest until he meets “Green eyes” aka Bridget, who does not date.
Hosea Behr’s strict no nonsense approach is such a sharp contrast to Gabe that one can feel their tension nearly leap from the page. It is interesting to see how these two men try to work together in the face of consequences that both face for their actions.
I enjoyed this book for the story but also because the characters are well written and believable. The struggles they face are not what you expect in an Amish story. Life can be a struggle and what you do with what you are handed is what makes or breaks a spirit. Laura Hilton manages to keep all together with a surprising solution for all. Five Stars for Firestorm!
It is quite possible that Laura V. Hilton could be my favorite author of Amish fiction. Although her characters are mostly Amish and her stories are set in Amish communities, I like how there is not so much emphasis on the rules and regulations according to the Ordnung. In Firestorm, a time or two Bridget wonders if certain expectations are the same as in her previous community and more than once Gabe is certain he will be reprimanded by the pastors. Yet overall, Hilton’s books are real life stories about everyday people who live and love and make mistakes just like you and me.
Firestorm is filled with unexpected problems from the very beginning when Bridget’s family is unpleasantly surprised by the condition of their new home that was purchased sight unseen. Fortunately the community rallies to help get things into shape but one accident after another slows their progress. The characters are vivid and so realistic. Several of them struggle with common human failings such as pride and low self-esteem but as they walk through difficulty and tragedy, the Lord sharpens and heals them. Despite all the difficulties and tragedy within its pages, Firestorm contains a good measure of humor that helps keep it from getting too dark.
I particularly liked the powerful scene during the fire when Gabe understood the true power of God, perhaps for the first time. This author’s books are the perfect blend of drama, romance and faith. If you haven’t read anything from Laura V. Hilton, please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Firestorm, the first volume of The Amish of Mackinac County series.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Firestorm
Bridget’s dad brought a house that was in foreclosure but did not know how bad it was. After traveling there they find it is unlivable. The first night there they stay at a neighbors house that is gone but find it is not empty. Gabe is staying there just for a days. Gabe is attracted to Bridget. Love the nickname he gives her of ‘green eyes”. I felt bad for the family moving there and not really having a home. Gabe helps out some but doesn’t hit it off with Bridget dad. Gabe was trying to find his way in life but had a hard time having things go his way. I really loved Gabe and he quickly became my favorite character. I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review.
This is an incredible Amish romance!
From the very beginning I was captivated by Bridget. She is an extremely well developed character with many facets. The fears and conflicted emotions that she has were easy to understand with the background information that is given about her life before moving to the Upper Peninsula.
The development of the rest of the main characters was just as thorough. I feel like I got to know them and the motivations for their actions too. There were so many heavy burdens that were being dealt with it seemed as if it were real life. This book is not a light escape as some are.
I loved the fact that there were strong believers. They were doing all that they could to help Bridget, Gabe and the others who were struggling, to draw closer to God and trust Him more. The journeys that Gabe and Hosea, Bridget’s daed, had to take were very realistic. They were both very understandable for men going on to be strong spiritual leaders.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.
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.*
Firestorm
Laura V. Hilton
A humorous, yet insightful Amish adventure
Bridget’s daed had made a big mistake. In an attempt to get his daughters away from a creepy stalker, he purchased land and a house in Northern Michigan. Sight unseen. So the family ended up having to live in tents. In Michigan. In November!
What a book! I was laughing and then pondering and then swooning and then laughing again. And I kept marking lines to create quote images; far too many to use without being sued for plagiarism. Seriously, Gabe and Bridget were such a fun couple to read about. Also fun were the subtle plays on Bridget’s family name, Behr.
I was drawn in by Gabe’s flirtatious, cocky, arrogant and yet insecure ways. His behavior, a cry for acceptance and attention from his dad, was so painful and yet touching. I really loved the way that he still had a heart searching for a relationship with God; that he was willing to really talk to the bishop and the way that things ended up working out between Gabe and his daed.
Bridget’s dad’s temper was quite amazing, but not necessarily in a good way. He kept saying things he regretted later but had so much pride it was hard for him to apologize. I enjoyed seeing how God worked in his heart, especially when he was so angry with Noah. Again. And again.
It is interesting to realize how the Amish have such an appearance of holiness and a close relationship with God, but they often know so little about Him or even the Bible. The very fact that Bridget feared that she would get into trouble for even wanting to read the Bible was shocking.
It made me smile to find out where the quote I saved from Plain Everyday Heroes came from about calling the black lab Butterscotch. Yes, I read the books in the wrong order but it just may have made that even more fun doing it this way. I’m glad that Noah got his own story there. I might have to re-read it now despite having just read it. . .
One of the things that I enjoy about Laura V. Hilton’s Amish stories is the life that is in them. Maybe it is the other Amish stories I have read but it seems like most are very serious with the characters being very staid and proper. This author’s characters are playful, they have fits, they tease and have thoughts sometimes bordering on “improper” (yet totally clean) about those of the opposite gender. Like real people.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I would like to thank Celebrate Lit for giving me this copy of the book. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
An Excellent Book
This is by far the best book I have read by Laura V. Hilton. I was so touched and moved by the characters I just couldn’t put the book down. I loved reading about the Behr family moving from Ohio to Michigan and how they manage to work through their struggles with a home that was inhabitable. With the help of a young Amish neighbor, Gabriel Lapp, everyone tried and failed but tried again to get along and rebuilt a barn and house. It was a very interesting book that I highly recommend anyone who likes Amish fiction to read it. The author did an excellent job with her research of the Amish in Mackinac County, Michigan. I’m really looking forward to reading more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher in return for my honest review.
Firestorm by Laura V. Hilton is a captivating story about an Amish community in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It is indeed a love story but it is so much more. There is tension in the relationship between Gabe and Bridget (or Green Eyes as Gabe affectionately calls her) throughout the book. One wonders if they will be able to overcome the difficulties that come at them. And as Gabe muses, ‘manhood often grows in the soil of hardship.’ Readers will cheer for, cry with and be drawn into the lives of this Amish community of colorful and riveting characters. The story flows well with action and emotion and has a few “oh, no!” moments where one wonders how will this turn out? Humorous scenes and dialogues, polar bear plunges into the freezing winter waters of Lake Michigan, and so much more keep the pages turning in this entertaining and inspirational book. It is a story not only of finding a home and romance in a new community but of realizing the faithfulness of God in times of trouble. I’m looking forward to more in this series of The Amish of Mackinac County.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and the opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
I never liked moving when I was young. It was nice to stay in one place and feel secure. I can’t imagine how Bridget must have felt when her family moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It seemed almost deserted and oh my it was freezing cold there. The author does a great job of describing the terrain and the snow that fell constantly. It was going to be a new start for the family, but who buys a house unseen? To say that the house her father bought was scary is an understatement. I could picture the house falling down at any minute. It sure isn’t a welcome start for the family.
Gabe is a very good character. He tries so hard to help Bridget and her family, but her father doesn’t seem to like him or trust him. I loved the part where a tradition was fulfilled in the area. All I can say is brrrr. Unfortunately for Gabe, he makes a huge mistake with Bridget that causes friction between Gabe and her father. The relationship between Gabe and Bridget’s father Hosea is very entertaining. It is so hard to convince someone you are a good person, when rumors have been spread about you that are untrue.
One of the subjects in the book is about pride. It can turn a person into one who is bitter. They become suspicious of others and can ruin relationships. I loved how the author handled the subject and showed us how people deal with it. It is so hard to say you are sorry sometimes, but walking around with a prideful spirit pushes people away. The relationship between Gabe and Bridget is complex and I loved reading how they each struggled with their feelings for each other.
The author talks about acceptance. I have always wanted the approval and acceptance from my parents. I never received it but this passage in the story really helps. “You need Him more than you need anyone else. Gott spreads around forgiveness and grace like you used to spread jelly on toast.” We are free to spread as much jelly as we want on our toast, just like God covers us with His grace and forgiveness for as long as we need it. I really enjoyed the story and reading about Bridget’s family as they try to overcome loss. It is a powerful book that reminds us to forgive quickly, be quick to lend a hand, and not to judge others.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.”
Firestorm by Laura Hilton is the first novel in The Amish of Mackinac County series. Bridget Behr and her family arrive in Mackinac County, Michigan from Ohio on a frigid, stormy November night. Her father has bought a house sight unseen and they are shocked at the ramshackle building they see when they arrive. They are unable to stay in the home that night, so the driver drops them at the Amish neighbors. They are unprepared for Gabe Lapp in his brightly colored pajamas. Gabe is immediately taken with Bridget and her beautiful, bright green eyes. Bridget, though, is unprepared to date after a terrifying experience in Ohio even if the individual is charming and handsome. Gabe works in construction and offers his assistance to Hosea Behr, Bridget’s father. The house was recently used for the Halloween haunted house and Gave recommends it be demolished. The Behr’s will also need to build a barn. Gabe is not enjoying the icy Michigan weather and cannot wait until he returns home to Pinecraft, Florida. While Gabe is a hardworking and helpful man, he tends to get into trouble with his youthful exuberance (and when he is bored). But troubling times are ahead, and it could be just what is needed to help Gabe grow up and become the man God knows he can be. Bridget is attracted to Gabe, but can she overcome her reservations and her father’s objections (it seems someone told him about Gabe’s misadventures). The road to future is a bumpy one, but it is a fulfilling one. Join Gabe and Bridget on their journey in Firestorm.
I thought Firestorm was well-written and had a nice lively pace. I was drawn in right away with the sentence regarding Gabe’s colorful pajamas. Gabe is a delightful main character. He has a quirky personality with his openness to try new and different things. His character provides light-heartedness to the story (his antics had me snickering). Gabe has many good qualities and I liked seeing him mature. Bishop Miah Brunstetter was kindly man who guides his flock with a steady, calm spirit. There is plenty going on in Firestorm with the nightmare house, construction, miscommunication, Gabe’s various antics, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year and so much more. Christian elements are present throughout the story. Prayer and steadfast faith are important to lead a Christian life. The one thing we tend to forget is that we are not in control and things will happen in God’s timing (not when we want it to happen). Laura Hilton’s descriptions of the area helped me to visualize it especially the cold temperatures (which makes me glad I am in Florida). While snow can be beautiful, the cold temperatures can be deadly. Life is never easy as we see in Firestorm, but all things happen for a purpose. I look forward to the next installment in The Amish of Mackinac County series.
I believe Firestorm is one of the best books Author Laura V Hilton has written. One characteristic that the Author portrayed in this novel are Amish are the same as us – humans. Good and bad things happen to all of us, but God is still in control. I so enjoyed reading Firestorm and by saying this, I believe this is a must read book. Firestorm is Book One of The Amish of Mackinac County by Author Laura V Hilton. Magnificent Book!!
I received a copy from the author, but was not required to review it. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
An exciting new series from gifted author Laura V. Hilton, one you don’t want to miss.
I loved this Christian story of Amish life in Michigan, what a change from Ohio, and we experience it first hand through the eyes of the author and her main characters of Bridget Behr and Gabriel Lapp.
A love story, but so much more is included here, a new beginning for a family fleeing a stalker, and wait until you see the house they have purchased sight unseen. Oh my! Then we experience this remote area, with unusual activities for the Amish, Polar Bear Plunge, really?
Yes, we face a lot of adversary conditions, and yet, we see faith unbroken, and you might want to keep the tissue handy as you read this.
This story is so action packed, and keeps you on your toes, you will never see what is coming next, and you don’t want to.
I received this book through the Publisher Whitaker House, and was not required to give a positive review.
Firestorm by Laura V. Hilton was another captivating and emotional read. I always look forward to reading Hilton’s latest book and this one didn’t disappoint. Firestorm is the first one in the series set in Mackinac County, Michigan. This action packed story is filled with strong characters, vivid descriptive scenes, thoughts and dialogue that kept this reader from putting it down. Readers will appreciate the depth, wisdom and God’s unfailing love and greatness even during devastating times that Laura V. Hilton interlaced into her latest Amish fiction along with Amish proverbs and Biblical Scriptures.
Bridget Behr and her family move to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan did not start out like they had anticipated. Gabriel (Gabe) Lapp was not the usual Amish young man but had a desire to do better and was trying his best to help the Behr family. The hero and heroine in this amazing story will provide laughs along with tears with their adventures, which were not the usual ones for Amish youth at times. The realism of their young lives the family and community struggles, along with Gabe’s skills as a carpenter, Bishop Nehemiah’s wisdom and Gabe’s dad arriving in the community brought a new perspective to why Gabe had been sent to Michigan to do construction work. When a fire devastated the community and susceptibility of lives being destroyed, I was right in the midst of the action and pain. The descriptive flow of words showed the realism of the situation with the loss of homes, belongings, lives, and natural surroundings. Will the Behr family, Gabe, Mr. Lapp and the community members be able to heal? This top notched Amish story has a beautiful message of finding an inner peace in the midst of tragic through God’s love, grace, mercy and letting go of anger from the past to start over with blessings of family members.
I received an ARC complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher, Whitaker House. I was not required to write a positive review but have expressed my honest thoughts. I’ll abide my time till the next book from Laura V. Hilton is released. She’s a favorite author and never fails to create a story that is not your normal Amish fiction but is filled with depth, realistic action, perseverance of characters and a wonderful faith message.