MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I love reading a good, enjoyable Amish book, and author Mindy Steele’s The Flower Quilter sure fits this, and more. Even though Barbara Schwartz was born and raised in a family of quilters, she did not pick up that love for sewing like the rest of the family. When Barbara’s parents sent her to Indiana to help in her grandmother’s quilt shop, she was surprised to find a different Amish community than what she was use to. This could be a good move for Barbara, or it could be worse being around all those quilts.

I love the characters created by Mindy Steele, and especially Barbara. I could relate it her most, because though I grew up on a farm, anything that goes with farming is just not my thing. I was happy for for Barbara that she found other things to do besides quilting. There were some of the older ladies that were challenging for Barbara, but they didn’t define how Barbara would live her life.

I thing Steele did an amazing job writing this story, and reading a little more about the rough draft writing, it makes you enjoy the story even more. I’m giving this book Five Stars. I can’t wait for the second book in this series.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 ( )

What I think you should know:
The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele is a contemporary Christian Amish Fiction. It is the first book in The Heart of The Amish series. The book is set mostly in Shipshewana, Indiana, one of the largest Amish communities in the country.

What I think about this book:
This is such a sweet story, Barbara comes from a family of quilters, but has no interest or talent for sewing. When her mother sends her to stay with her grandparents she is overwhelmed by the size of the community and struggles to find a place that brings her joy. Barbara was not confident in herself because she didn’t live up to the expectations of her mother. It was nice to see her grow during the book. Melvin suffered the unexpected loss of both of his parents and feels responsible for the care of his sister and niece after his sister became a widow. After his loss he was determined to keep his heart safe even if it meant missing out on the joys of life. I really enjoyed watching the interactions between the characters. Both characters were relatable and had valuable insight, I look forward to reading more in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele is a work of Amish/Christian Fiction. Imagine being born into a family of quilters but you fail to meet their expectations of loving and excelling at quilting. Barbara Schwartz, of Kentucky, lives this experience. Her mother and sister fail to appreciate Barbara and her gifts and talents.

She finds herself shipped off to her grandparents in a much different community in Indiana to help in her grandmother’s quilt shop. She struggles to fit in with quilting there, fortunately, someone in her life pays attention to her situation.

After seeing Barbara struggling with quilting, her grandfather intervenes and finds the perfect opportunity for her love of flowers and the outdoors to flourish. But first, she needs to get past Melvin Bontager’s moodiness. Losing his parents six years ago caused his world to stop.

This book highlights the struggles that result when someone tries to force us to fit into their mold for what we should be. But we can flourish when we open our hearts, minds, and souls to the role God calls us to fill.

So, if you enjoy works of Amish fiction, check out The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele for yourself. I definitely recommend it. This story involving faith, flowers, and finding our true calling will draw you into this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

A beautiful story of finding your passion and following your heart. Ms Steele has a unique way of adding unexpected surprises to Amish Fiction that keeps you coming back for more. The picturesque storytelling has you visualizing Barbara pushing her glasses up with bandaged fingers from trying to quilt to please family. I loved that her grandparents saw her for who she was and encouraged and pushed her to color outside the lines of what was expected of an Amish woman. Melvin touched my heart with his caring ways for his sister and niece. I would love to step into the book and see the beautiful gardens he creates with great input from Barbara. This book has inspired me to create a flower quilt as I love gardening. An all around great book that keeps you turning pages but at the same time not wanting it to end.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required. ( )

Sewing Flowers!

This is her worst nightmare come true! Barbara is spending part of the summer in Indiana helping and quilting in her Amish grandmother's quilt shop. Despite years of trying, Barbara can't do anything but stick herself repeatedly with the needle, or constantly pull out her poorly done stitches.

After a few days of torture, her grandfather takes mercy on her, and finds her a different job. But it is with Melvin, who almost ran her over with his wagon the first day she arrived. He constantly seems to be in a bad mood, and always has a sour look on his face. Barbara dislikes Melvin so much, she is almost tempted to return to the quilt shop, almost.

Melvin is a landscaper, and Barbara is supposed to help him plant, and tend gardens. Getting her hands dirty is what Barbara loves most. Barbed comments, and head butting take place between them on the job. As she works, she suggests different ways to arrange the plants, a departure from the way Melvin has always done it.

For the first time in her life, Barbara is having romantic feelings for someone. She doesn't know how anything could come of it since she will be returning home to Kentucky. Barbara will never live anywhere else, not even for a relationship. But she knows she will never be happy because part of her heart will be left in Indiana.

This five-star book has a great story line that keeps you absorbed until the last page. Fans of Amish stories, and well-written tales will enjoy this clean book!

Thank you, Barbour Publishing, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own. ( )