Surprised by Love
7 primary works
Book 1
Sometimes love is found in the most unexpected places--as three blessed men will discover in Rachel J. Good's heartwarming Amish romance series, set in a bustling Pennsylvania community...
When an organic farm causes rents to skyrocket at the Valley Green Farmer's Market, Fern Blauch's family baked goods stand is driven to the edge of eviction...Until a mysterious temporary reprieve. Fern is confused when she discovers the benefactor is barbecued chicken stand owner--and her longtime crush--Gideon Hartzler. She's grateful, but pridefully tells him she intends to pay him back. If only she can find a new place to sell her wares...
To stay competitive, and help as many others as he can, Gideon expands his stand to provide full meals--including dessert. That's where Fern comes in. As the two work long hours, side-by-side, business booms--and so does their attraction. Still, the demands of caring for aging parents and struggling relatives cause them to hide any feelings beyond friendship. But as new challenges emerge and Gideon and Fern turn more deeply to their faith, and to each other, will love find a place at their table?
When an organic farm causes rents to skyrocket at the Valley Green Farmer's Market, Fern Blauch's family baked goods stand is driven to the edge of eviction...Until a mysterious temporary reprieve. Fern is confused when she discovers the benefactor is barbecued chicken stand owner--and her longtime crush--Gideon Hartzler. She's grateful, but pridefully tells him she intends to pay him back. If only she can find a new place to sell her wares...
To stay competitive, and help as many others as he can, Gideon expands his stand to provide full meals--including dessert. That's where Fern comes in. As the two work long hours, side-by-side, business booms--and so does their attraction. Still, the demands of caring for aging parents and struggling relatives cause them to hide any feelings beyond friendship. But as new challenges emerge and Gideon and Fern turn more deeply to their faith, and to each other, will love find a place at their table?
Book 2
Sometimes love, guided by the Grace of God, is found in the most unexpected places or in unexpected ways. And in USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good's second Surprised by Love romance, the bustling Green Valley Farmer's Market and Auction is the perfect setting for a shy man who trains assistance dogs and a young woman with fledgling a homemade pet food business to find love when they least expect it...
The luscious scent of fresh-picked peaches and summer apples...the warming promise of grilled corn, sweet and savory baked goods...and love. In Rachel J. Good's uplifting Amish romance series, blessed hearts come together in a bustling Pennsylvania community and farmer's market...
Jilted by her first love, Sovilla Mast fled her hometown to live in Pennsylvania with an aunt she's never met. Only after she arrives does she realize that the cantankerous woman has left the faith and alienated everyone around her. To take her mind off her sadness, Sovilla turns to baking homemade pet food and treats to sell at the Valley Green Farmer's Market. It's there she meets dog breeder Isaac Lantz...
Shy and kind-hearted, Isaac breeds Labrador retrievers and works as a puppy raiser for assistance dogs. When he and Sovilla bond at the market, he is immediately drawn to her. And when he tells her he needs a new puppy raiser, Sovilla jumps at the chance. But as their friendship deepens, Isaac can't help but notice that Sovilla keeps herself at a safe distance. Gaining a puppy's trust and affection has been easy for Isaac, yet he has no idea how to win the heart of the woman he's fallen in love with--until Sovilla needs advice in dealing with her aunt. Soon, Isaac is putting his lessons from man's best friend, and his faith, to work for the good of all involved...
The luscious scent of fresh-picked peaches and summer apples...the warming promise of grilled corn, sweet and savory baked goods...and love. In Rachel J. Good's uplifting Amish romance series, blessed hearts come together in a bustling Pennsylvania community and farmer's market...
Jilted by her first love, Sovilla Mast fled her hometown to live in Pennsylvania with an aunt she's never met. Only after she arrives does she realize that the cantankerous woman has left the faith and alienated everyone around her. To take her mind off her sadness, Sovilla turns to baking homemade pet food and treats to sell at the Valley Green Farmer's Market. It's there she meets dog breeder Isaac Lantz...
Shy and kind-hearted, Isaac breeds Labrador retrievers and works as a puppy raiser for assistance dogs. When he and Sovilla bond at the market, he is immediately drawn to her. And when he tells her he needs a new puppy raiser, Sovilla jumps at the chance. But as their friendship deepens, Isaac can't help but notice that Sovilla keeps herself at a safe distance. Gaining a puppy's trust and affection has been easy for Isaac, yet he has no idea how to win the heart of the woman he's fallen in love with--until Sovilla needs advice in dealing with her aunt. Soon, Isaac is putting his lessons from man's best friend, and his faith, to work for the good of all involved...
Book 4
In USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s sweetly romantic inspirational series, the bustling Green Valley Farmer’s Market in Pennsylvania is an unexpected place for residents of nearby Amish communities to find the partner of their dreams. But as spring gives way to summer and the market fills with the season’s bounty, a new relationship begins to bloom as well…
When widower Stephen Lapp moves his five children from New York State to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, his only plan is to buy his family’s farm stand, Lapp’s Pastured Pork. That way, his brother can move closer to his fiancée and open his own stand. But on Stephen’s first trip to the market, his brave act of kindness nearly ends in catastrophe—until strong-willed Nettie Hartzler saves him—and makes an impression he can’t forget . . .
A widow with private heartaches of her own, Nettie has no interest in getting involved with any man, though she doesn’t discourage their respective children’s new friendships—despite Stephen’s contentious oldest daughter. But when Nettie runs into serious money worries and Stephen proposes a marriage of convenience, she’s distressed and conflicted. She’s come to know Stephen’s gentle heart and generous soul, and she can’t believe he’ll want her if she reveals the sins of her past. God has His own plans for the faithful, however, and this time they may include a second chance at love . . .
When widower Stephen Lapp moves his five children from New York State to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, his only plan is to buy his family’s farm stand, Lapp’s Pastured Pork. That way, his brother can move closer to his fiancée and open his own stand. But on Stephen’s first trip to the market, his brave act of kindness nearly ends in catastrophe—until strong-willed Nettie Hartzler saves him—and makes an impression he can’t forget . . .
A widow with private heartaches of her own, Nettie has no interest in getting involved with any man, though she doesn’t discourage their respective children’s new friendships—despite Stephen’s contentious oldest daughter. But when Nettie runs into serious money worries and Stephen proposes a marriage of convenience, she’s distressed and conflicted. She’s come to know Stephen’s gentle heart and generous soul, and she can’t believe he’ll want her if she reveals the sins of her past. God has His own plans for the faithful, however, and this time they may include a second chance at love . . .
Book 5
In USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s sweetly romantic inspirational series, the bustling Green Valley Farmer’s Market in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has everything your heart desires, from fresh-picked produce to oven-warm pies…and maybe even a chance to find love. Perfect for fans of Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard!
Hiding a painful secret, valley newcomer Noah Riehl is looking for a fresh start with few complications. He hopes his job at the Farmer’s Market will give him the quiet life he craves. But light-hearted Caroline Hartzler has other ideas. She practically falls in love with him at first sight. And when she asks Noah for a not-so-simple favor—and won’t take no for answer—he finds himself reluctantly agreeing…
Caroline refuses to listen to the gossip that has followed Noah into the valley, or even to her own daed’s warnings. She’s taken with Noah and his gentle, generous spirit. In fact, he’s the perfect person to help her discourage an unwanted suitor—by pretending they’re courting. Yet the more time they spend together, the more Caroline must remind herself that their relationship is just a temporary ruse. But she’s not the only one struggling. . . Secretly, Noah’s feelings for Caroline deepen more than he thought possible, helping him renew his faltering faith. But when rumors about his past threaten to ruin them both, they must pray that the truth leads them to the blessed union they long for…
Hiding a painful secret, valley newcomer Noah Riehl is looking for a fresh start with few complications. He hopes his job at the Farmer’s Market will give him the quiet life he craves. But light-hearted Caroline Hartzler has other ideas. She practically falls in love with him at first sight. And when she asks Noah for a not-so-simple favor—and won’t take no for answer—he finds himself reluctantly agreeing…
Caroline refuses to listen to the gossip that has followed Noah into the valley, or even to her own daed’s warnings. She’s taken with Noah and his gentle, generous spirit. In fact, he’s the perfect person to help her discourage an unwanted suitor—by pretending they’re courting. Yet the more time they spend together, the more Caroline must remind herself that their relationship is just a temporary ruse. But she’s not the only one struggling. . . Secretly, Noah’s feelings for Caroline deepen more than he thought possible, helping him renew his faltering faith. But when rumors about his past threaten to ruin them both, they must pray that the truth leads them to the blessed union they long for…
Book 6
In USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s sweet inspirational romance, the bustling Green Valley Farmer’s Market in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has everything the residents of nearby Amish communities could ever need…including a chance to find love when they least expect!
Perfect for fans of Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard.
Between heavenly homemade bread, irresistible desserts, and stunning crafts, Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Green Valley Farmer’s Market provides warm-hearted community—and love’s surprising possibilities . . .
With her sweet nature and delicate beauty, Rachel Glick attracts boys like bees to a flower—despite her best attempts to discourage them. Downhearted since her beloved brother’s death, and isolated as the sole caretaker to her invalid mother, Rachel would welcome the friendship of other girls. But her unfair reputation as a flirt leaves her snubbed. Yet she’s only ever loved Josh Yoder, her childhood best friend. Why he distanced himself from her in eighth grade, she’ll never understand. And now, though he’s been a blessing doing repairs around her farm, he is courting another girl, so there is no going back . . .
Josh has been in love with Rachel since he was a boy. But he can never forgive himself for hurting her—or for the reason behind it. He can only do his best to lighten her burdens and hope others see her good heart. Still, the sight of her fills him with fresh longing, much as he tries to focus on his girlfriend and forget the past. Yet when jealousy flares, igniting trouble, they both must look to faith to do what’s right—and bring joyous futures for everyone . . .
Perfect for fans of Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard.
Between heavenly homemade bread, irresistible desserts, and stunning crafts, Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Green Valley Farmer’s Market provides warm-hearted community—and love’s surprising possibilities . . .
With her sweet nature and delicate beauty, Rachel Glick attracts boys like bees to a flower—despite her best attempts to discourage them. Downhearted since her beloved brother’s death, and isolated as the sole caretaker to her invalid mother, Rachel would welcome the friendship of other girls. But her unfair reputation as a flirt leaves her snubbed. Yet she’s only ever loved Josh Yoder, her childhood best friend. Why he distanced himself from her in eighth grade, she’ll never understand. And now, though he’s been a blessing doing repairs around her farm, he is courting another girl, so there is no going back . . .
Josh has been in love with Rachel since he was a boy. But he can never forgive himself for hurting her—or for the reason behind it. He can only do his best to lighten her burdens and hope others see her good heart. Still, the sight of her fills him with fresh longing, much as he tries to focus on his girlfriend and forget the past. Yet when jealousy flares, igniting trouble, they both must look to faith to do what’s right—and bring joyous futures for everyone . . .
Book 7
Savory barbecue chicken . . . golden-crisp potatoes . . . and fresh-picked produce are just a few of the offerings at Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Green Valley Farmer’s Market—along with surprising opportunities to find forever friendships, comforting advice—and love’s most delicious possibilities . . .
Filled with faith, community, and sweet romance, USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s Surprised by Love novels are perfect for fans of Linda Byler, Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard.
Hard-working and caring, Anna Mary Zook does her level best to care for her depressed widowed mother and five siblings . . . all while working a new farmer’s market job. And coping with her longtime boyfriend falling for another girl. She couldn’t be more grateful when visitor Abe King helps lighten her load of responsibilities—and is there when she needs a friend. Even more surprising, he understands her better than anyone ever has. But what happens when his family commitments demand that he soon returns home . . . to stay?
Abe felt Anna Mary’s gentleness and determination was special from the moment they met. And with his own father needing help tending the King family farm in New York, he well knows the pressure she’s under. He’s more than willing to travel to Lancaster as often as possible to help Anna Mary, but she deserves so much more. Abe wouldn’t feel right asking her to uproot her family and life to marry him. But between faith and hope, can they somehow find a way to do right by their duties and their hearts?
Filled with faith, community, and sweet romance, USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s Surprised by Love novels are perfect for fans of Linda Byler, Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard.
Hard-working and caring, Anna Mary Zook does her level best to care for her depressed widowed mother and five siblings . . . all while working a new farmer’s market job. And coping with her longtime boyfriend falling for another girl. She couldn’t be more grateful when visitor Abe King helps lighten her load of responsibilities—and is there when she needs a friend. Even more surprising, he understands her better than anyone ever has. But what happens when his family commitments demand that he soon returns home . . . to stay?
Abe felt Anna Mary’s gentleness and determination was special from the moment they met. And with his own father needing help tending the King family farm in New York, he well knows the pressure she’s under. He’s more than willing to travel to Lancaster as often as possible to help Anna Mary, but she deserves so much more. Abe wouldn’t feel right asking her to uproot her family and life to marry him. But between faith and hope, can they somehow find a way to do right by their duties and their hearts?
Book 8
From stunning handmade crafts to fresh-picked produce and mouthwatering baked goods, Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Green Valley Farmers Market offers sweet surprises every day—including the chance to make new friends, find community—and even discover a forever kind of happiness . . .
Filled with faith, community, and sweet romance, USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s Surprised by Love novels are perfect for fans of Linda Byler, Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard.
Cathy Zehr prides herself on her skilled donut-making—and on her plain speaking. After all, talking about others’ failings is only telling the honest truth—and it might prevent others from making the same mistakes. But gossiping has made her an alt maidel—someone never courted to be a wife. And she’s finally at a loss for more than words when she must care for her ailing brother's young sons. To find out what not to do, she turns to reserved woodworker Myron King, a bachelor who raised his orphaned niece and nephew. His advice proves invaluable—plus, Cathy discovers they have much in common. Yet she fears their growing closeness will never overcome her deep trauma—much less lead to love . . .
Myron is taken aback by Cathy’s request—yet he’s also intrigued. Perhaps confessing his parenting regrets will ease some of his guilt. Still, he’s surprised when Cathy truly listens to him, even softening her blunt manner. Myron is even more surprised by his growing attraction to her—despite his fears about risking heartbreak again. But when their deepest secrets suddenly collide, can faith, forgiveness, and courage unite their longing hearts?
Filled with faith, community, and sweet romance, USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good’s Surprised by Love novels are perfect for fans of Linda Byler, Amy Clipston, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Charlotte Hubbard.
Cathy Zehr prides herself on her skilled donut-making—and on her plain speaking. After all, talking about others’ failings is only telling the honest truth—and it might prevent others from making the same mistakes. But gossiping has made her an alt maidel—someone never courted to be a wife. And she’s finally at a loss for more than words when she must care for her ailing brother's young sons. To find out what not to do, she turns to reserved woodworker Myron King, a bachelor who raised his orphaned niece and nephew. His advice proves invaluable—plus, Cathy discovers they have much in common. Yet she fears their growing closeness will never overcome her deep trauma—much less lead to love . . .
Myron is taken aback by Cathy’s request—yet he’s also intrigued. Perhaps confessing his parenting regrets will ease some of his guilt. Still, he’s surprised when Cathy truly listens to him, even softening her blunt manner. Myron is even more surprised by his growing attraction to her—despite his fears about risking heartbreak again. But when their deepest secrets suddenly collide, can faith, forgiveness, and courage unite their longing hearts?