What an interesting concept for an Amish book, as I love knowledge and this shows how Dok Stella uses plants and herbs from nature to promote healing and health . I enjoyed the Notes the author shares at the beginning and the glossary as well as recipes at the end. I loved the characters and how Stella learns it is okay to trust and depend on others even though you have been deeply wounded by family. Ellie was the star of the show in my opinion as a faithful companion to Stella and the humor she brought to the story. Simon was a great hero in my opinion as he broke the mold for how you usually feel about an Amish bishop. Watching him grow and heal from the loss of his wife was encouraging especially with the relationship he had with his son. This is very well written and kept me engaged till the end. My sisters also read and like myself they recommend reading also.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required. ( )

In Amish and Christian fiction, a rich tapestry of stories is woven with themes of faith, community, and resilience. Mindy Steele’s “Courting the Amish Bishop,” the fourth installment in The Heart of the Amish series, is a testament to these themes’ enduring power.

From the moment I delved into the pages of this captivating novel, I found myself spellbound, unable to tear my eyes away from the rich narrative that unfolded before me. At the heart of the story lies Simon Graber, a widowed bishop and devoted father whose life is deeply intertwined with his Old-Order Amish community. Yet, the arrival of Stella Schmucker sets the wheels of change in motion.

With her gifts as an herbalist and healer, Stella brings fresh air to the community when the threat of influenza looms. However, beneath her serene exterior lies a past marred by abuse—a heartbreaking revelation that serves as a stark reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

What struck me most about “Courting the Amish Bishop” was the tender and genuine relationship that blossomed between Simon and Stella. Despite their respective scars, they find solace and strength in each other, highlighting the transformative power of love and faith.

Steele’s masterful storytelling not only immerses readers in the quaint world of the Amish but also delves deep into the complexities of human emotions and experiences. Through Stella’s journey of healing and self-discovery, the author deftly explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the unwavering belief in humanity’s inherent goodness.

Moreover, the novel serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community and the bonds that unite us in times of adversity. As Stella’s presence breathes new life into the tight-knit Amish community, it becomes evident that it is through shared faith and solidarity that they find the strength to overcome life’s trials.

In conclusion, “Courting the Amish Bishop” is a testament to the power of storytelling to uplift, inspire, and touch the depths of our souls. With its richly drawn characters, heartfelt narrative, and profound themes, Mindy Steele’s latest offering will resonate with readers who seek solace and hope amidst life’s challenges. So, if you’re a fan of Amish and Christian fiction, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the pages of this captivating tale.

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

One of the things I noticed right away about this story is that trust is the key in this book. Some of the Amish don’t really like Stella using herbs to heal sickness. I liked that Stella was not discouraged when she came upon those who didn’t trust her ways. Her gentle spirit and compassion helps her reach people who would otherwise not trust a woman doctor. The author did a lot of research to make this story authentic with details of herbs and what they are used for. It fascinated me to learn there are so many plants that could be used to help with sickness.

Simon is the widowed and trying to do the best he can raising his son, make a living and have responsibilities as the bishop. When he finds himself in need of a doctor, Stella shows up. I think he did the best he could in keeping an open mind with her ways of healing but I’m sure he had a little doubt.

When Stella’s past is slowly revealed I wanted to cry. She dealt with so much pain emotionally and physically from her parents that it caused her not to trust. As a child even her brothers abused her and there were days she wasn’t fed. Her strength to overcome her past is illustrated beautifully. When she finds herself without a place to stay after a storm destroys the home she lives in, Simon offers her a place at his mothers.

With faith and many trials this story will entertain readers. I loved how the author takes a young woman with flaws and slowly rebuilds her confidence and trust. Will Simon and Stella become an item? Find out when you grab a copy of this book.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

Courting an Amish Bishop, by Mindy Steele, is book 4 in the Heart of the Amish series. This is a series of nicely written, easy to read stories that are written by different authors. In this story we meet Simon and Stella. When illness spreads through the Old Order Amish community, Simon reaches out to herbal healer Stella in the neighboring community for help. A storm hits as Stella is helping Simon's community and destroys her home. As she spending time staying with Simon's mother and helping the sick, she and Simon develop a friendship neither thought possible.

This is an enjoyable story to read. I especially enjoyed reading of the different herbs Stella uses to treat the sick people. I like how she has used her knowledge of herbs to provide for herself. I enjoyed the parts in the story that deal with both Simon and Stella's pasts and how that has affected how they are now. I was totally surprised at the reason she was estranged from her family and how that affected her. Yet, she put that behind her when she was summoned back home to help care for a family member.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review. ( )

Courting an Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele is a sweet story. My attention was captured right away. I enjoyed getting to know Stella Schmucker and Bishop Simon Graber. Bishop Graber’s son, Michael added humor to the story. It was interesting learning about the various herbs and their uses. I can tell that the author did her research. Those struck down with this virulent strain of flu in Cherry Grove, Kentucky certainly needed Stella and her knowledge. I liked the fact that Stella and Simon were middle-aged (instead of a man and woman in their early twenties). There are life and faith lessons throughout the story. Courting an Amish Bishop is the fourth book in The Heart of the Amish series, but it can be read as a standalone. This was an enjoyable story to read. Courting an Amish Bishop is a heartwarming Amish tale with benevolent bishop, a pervasive sickness, healing herbs, a cliffside house, a nasty storm, and a close-knit community. ( )