This first book in the series introduces the characters and the Spinster Club that some Amish women organized for get-togethers. It centers on Eli and the nephew he is raising, and Miriam, a single schoolteacher. They are both members of a new developing Amish community. Both characters have a damaged past and are seeking to overcome the difficulties they are dealing with. There is a lot a excitement in this story that compounds the problems the characters must solve before they can achieve their HEA. Well written and engrossing, it a great start to a new series. ( )

Eli Troyer is an Amish carpenter and has recently moved to Harmony Creek Hollow as he is now caring for his orphaned nephew. Eli feels blessed when the schoolteacher, Miriam Hartz offers to work with Eli, who is hard of hearing. Miriam is confident that she will be able to teach Eli to read lips.

In this sweet story, the time that Eli and Miriam spend together brings them very close. However, they both have sad pasts that might prevent them from ever finding happiness with each other. Eli's sadness is bone deep and it was very heartwarming to read this story as Miriam learned to work past her sadness in order to reach him.

Miriam has her own reason for sadness. She had planned on marrying but her intended chose someone else. Her pain was palpable. No wonder neither of them were prepared to find happiness and joy in their lives.

The Amish Suitor is an endearing story. I actually purchased this book because I had the third book in the series for review. As I am dedicated to reading series, I gladly obtained the prior books. While this book by Jo Ann Brown is my first read, it certainly won't be my last.

The other books in the series are The Amish Christmas Cowboy, The Amish Bachelor's Baby and the upcoming The Amish Widower's Twins. ( )