She’d told herself she’d never go back home. But that was before the accident–before life changed forever. After the tragic death of her parents, Jonica Muller must return to the Amish community she left in shame five years ago. Tasked with settling her father’s estate, she plans to keep her visit as brief as possible so she can return to Cedar Ridge and start a life with Ephraim, a widower who … widower who has offered her and her five-year-old son the stability of a family.
But Jonica’s childhood home in Posen, Michigan, won’t let her go so quickly. Her father’s sister, Aenti Edna, is showing signs of a slipping mind. To Jonica’s alarm, Edna’s begun entertaining a mysterious redheaded Englischer who has unclear intentions toward the aging woman and the Mullers’ property.
Caleb is a young farmer working Edna’s land, trying to hide his own secret shame from his family and his girlfriend, Darleen. But when Jonica asks him to come to Edna’s aid, she unwittingly sets events in motion that change everyone’s ability to live in the shadows of their lives.
Steadfast Mercy is a tender love story at the intersection of heartbreak, forgiveness, and grace.
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Steadfast Mercy by Ruth Reid is the 3rd An Amish Mercies Novel. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. I thought Steadfast Mercy was well-written with a developed storyline and steady pacing. I liked the characters in the story especially Aenti Edna and Mr. Jordan. The author took the time to flesh out the main characters and gives them room to grow. Caleb and Jonica each have secrets and are grieving the loss of loved ones. These two also have guilt and regrets. They need help overcoming their issues so they can move forward. Jonica also worries that she is not a good mother to her son, Stephen. I like that Jonica and Caleb are realistic characters with struggles. I enjoyed the character of Mr. Joran. His presence added something special to the story. I appreciated that we get to catch up with Faith from Abiding Mercy. The point-of-view alternates between Jonica and Caleb which allows readers to see situations from both of their perspectives. It always amazes me how different men and women can be, yet we are so similar. The romance was sweet with some bumps along the way. We see the detrimental affect of gossip on people. People fail to realize that when the share their juicy tidbits, it can cause sorrow to the people involved. Faith, forgiveness, healing, and mercy are the themes present in Steadfast Mercy. The Christian elements are beautifully woven into the story. My favorite line from Steadfast Mercy is, “For Your mercy is steadfast and Your love endures forever.” I also liked, “All things are possible for those who believe.” I was delighted that that there was an epilogue that nicely wrapped up the book. Steadfast Mercy is a touching Amish novel that wraps up their charming series.
I reall like reading all Amish books
Letting go of the past can be hard especially when you have to step back to a place you never want to return to. So it was for Jonica. Losing her parents was hard but harder was returning to her former district and coming in contact with Calab.
Her fierce love for her son and family was so heart touching and sweet. It was sad to see how she protected herself from people but I like people like Caleb who broke through those barriers even though unintentionally.
This story goes from the present to the past and back again in a beautiful redemptive and love filled way.
I recieved a copy of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
This is the third book in this series, but you won’t be lost to read just this one, but the others are so good!
A young Amish woman, having just lost her parents, returns to her previous home after being gone five years, but she is not staying. She is at her Aunts, and her darling aunt is having memory problems and there seems to be a man hanging around that causes our Jonica to question his motives.
Enter an Amish man who is recalling from the unexpected death of his brother, whom he blames himself for, Caleb seems to be a blessing in all their lives.
Jonica has a young, delightful son, whom you will grow to love, and he is the catalyst to some of the questions you will be having.
I wished I could go on in the lives of these individuals, what a great read, and visit!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
Steadfast Mercy by Ruth Reid is an interesting Amish novel.
Jonica and Caleb are two characters you need to meet in this book. I admired them both. You need to watch out for Mr. Jordan. I am happy he was put into the plot among other characters. His words will stay in your heart after reading this book.
All those food mentioned in this novel made me hungry. I really want to live in an Amish community so I can eat freshly baked bread with a glass of milk.
Themes of faith and prayer were explored here. I love how bible verses and prayers were sprinkled in this novel without them being too preachy.
Other themes were navigated thoroughly. You really need to read this novel.
The story played like a movie in my head. You will feel all kinds of emotions while reading this book.
“All things are possible for those who believe” was quoted by Mr Jordan to Caleb. That is my favourite bible verse. I had to smile and read it over and over.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This sweet Amish love story set in Michigan captured my interest from the beginning and kept it through the satisfying end! It is decidedly one of the best Amish stories I have ever read. The narrative follows the lives of single-mom Jonica Muller and farmer Caleb Schulmann both of whom are dealing with their own personal losses, guilt, and regret. The characters are well-developed and engaging. The story flows at a steady pace, and the faith element is beautifully woven into the narrative inspiring hope and forgiveness. Steadfast Mercy is the third book in the Amish Mercies series, but works well as a stand-alone read. This is my first read from Ruth Reid. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the first two books of the series. I highly recommend this book especially for lovers of Amish fiction.
I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Ruth Reid’s Steadfast Mercy gives us hope that angels walk among us. This a beautiful story of faith, hope, and second chances that will warm readers’ hearts and leave them wanting more.
What a charming story! Author Ruth Reid pens a tale that is different than most, due to a mysterious red head, but I won’t give anything away. You’ll need to read the book yourself. And you’ll want to.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters, who were very life-like. I’d love to visit Posen and have coffee with Aenti Edna. And who can resist a cute five year old?
If you enjoy a story with lovable characters, a great story line, and some twists along the way, then I highly recommend Steadfast Mercy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.