Samuel’s Return by Susan Lantz Simpson. I love this series about the people in Southern Maryland! Most of the characters are in Susan’s other books in this small community of the Amish.
But first the scripture and photo. Psalm 119:105 is a most reassuring verse! No matter what’s going on in our lives, God promises that His word will be a lamp for our feet and a light for our path. If we focus on Him, He will guide us through anything.
Now for Samuel’s Return by Susan Lantz Simpson.
The first scent of blooming flowers, fresh green fields, and invigorating days of sunshine. A Southern Maryland Amish spring bursts with hope, bright promise—and a practical young widow’s chance to try love anew . . .
Two lively daughters, an active newborn, and a huge farm to tend. Lena Troyer has no time for impossible what-ifs. She just can’t let Samuel Mast’s unexpected return distract her. Even though her childhood sweetheart became the man she longed to marry, Samuel never saw or wrote Lena again after his family abruptly moved away. Now a widow, Lena is determined to keep Samuel’s helpful ways and irresistible good humor at arm’s length. No matter how often he’s there when she needs him most . . .
A restless father with a shameful secret was the reason Samuel’s many letters never got to Lena. Samuel can’t bring himself to tell Lena the truth—though he’s doing everything he can to regain her trust and prove he’s worthy of the resourceful woman she’s become. But as a rival for his affections complicates matters, Samuel and Lena must somehow put the past to rest—and believe that faith, honesty, and rekindled love will be more than enough to finally build a family together . . .
My take:
I’ve enjoyed each of Simpson’s books in this series, and this was another one I couldn’t put down. I’m not normally an Amish reader, but Simpson drew me in with Lena’s poignant story. A widow with three small children, and a determination to not let Samuel hurt her again.
Samuel was her first love, and then his father dragged the family off to Pennsylvania. It didn’t stop there. He also confiscated every letter Samuel wrote to Lena. No wonder she was so hurt. And no wonder she didn’t trust him when he suddenly shows up and buys a farm right next to her. Although determined to ignore Samuel, she can’t ignore the way her children adore him–and he them!
I love stories of second chances. Goodness knows, I’ve been given more than my share. This is a story of forgiveness, trust, and love. Samuel never gave up on Lena. He just has to convince her of that.
Another thing I like about these stories is catching up on characters from other books in the series. Rebecca (Becky) Zook and Atlee Stauffer show up from The Reconciliation. I loved getting to see the outcome of their story!
In these trying times, it’s so refreshing to read about a simpler way of life and people who trust God with everything. Well, mostly, or we wouldn’t get such good, conflicted stories. 🙂
You can find purchase links for Samuels Return here.
Book Birthday! Samuel's Return by Susan Lantz Simpson! Don't miss this uplifting story that will leave you smiling in these trying times. Leave a comment and I'll enter you in a drawing for a book from my library! Share on X
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Comments 31
Samuel’s Return sounds like a sweet story. Congratulations to Ms. Simpson on this new release!
Author
Hi Priscilla! It is a sweet story, something I really needed this week. 🙂 So glad you stopped by.
It does sound good. I love happy endings.
Author
Yes, me, too Delores! Good to ‘see’ you!
God’s Word definitely lights our feet and our path. We still stumble, but that’s why He gives us multiple chances. We need them! How gracious is our God! Beautiful photo, Pat.
Author
Thanks, Tim. I love that scripture and find myself humming it often. Good to ‘see’ you here, today!
I live in Southern Maryland so it’s fun to find an author who has written about it! Now I’m doubly interested in the story!
Author
Welcome to my blog, Mimi! I think you’ll really enjoy Samuel’s Return!. Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
I used to read a lot of Amish books, but then I gave it up for a while. This may draw me back in.
I’ve not read any of Susan Simpson’s books, but this sounds like a wonderful one! I’d love to read it.
Author
Suzanne, I love Susan Simpson’s books. I think you’d enjoy the whole series! Thanks for stopping by.
Sounds like a good book. I don’t usually read much Amish fiction but I may have to check this one out after reading your review.
Author
Megan, I’m not a big Amish reader, either but this Susan Lantz Simpson does such a great job of drawing me in that I can’t put the book down. I find myself really enjoying being around these characters. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by.
I enjoy an Amish book from time to time. This is a new to me author but will keep her in mind. The scripture immediately brought Amy Grant’s song to mind. Love it and the scripture.
Author
Gloria, I think you would really enjoy Susan’s books! I know I do. Thanks for stopping by.
Great verse! The picture suits it with the church steeple and the glow of the sun. Love it!
I don’t think I have read any books by this author, although I have read a fair number of Amish stories. Most of them bring a degree of peace and calm with them. Sometimes not, but they seem to work out well in the end.
Author
Edward, I think you’d enjoy Susan’s stories as much as I do. Thanks for stopping by!
Love the scripture and photo, Pat! Ms. Simpson is a new author for me.
Happy Friday!
Author
Happy Friday, Caryl! I really enjoy Susan’s books!! Thanks for stopping by.
Congratulations on your new release Susan Lantz Simpson! This book sounds like a Very good read and the book cover is beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing about this book Patricia, I will be adding it to my TBR list. Have a Great weekend and stay safe. God Bless you and your family.
Author
God bless you and your family, too, Alicia! Thanks for stopping by. I thing you’ll really enjoy Susan’s books.
I like the idea of getting a second chance at love. Thanks for the chance.
Author
Me, too, Lynn. This book will very quickly draw you into the story. So glad you stopped by!
Love the photo and scripture! Book sounds wonderful!Susan is a new author to me too
Author
I’m so glad you like the photo and scripture, Shelia! And I think you would enjoy Susan’s books!
I enjoy Amish stories for several reasons: they’re a clean, Christian read’ some settings are near where I live (Wayne County, OH) there is usually references to food & some books include recipes, and I enjoy the simple, disciplined way of life
Author
I agree, MS Barb, although these are set in Southern Marilyn…which I didn’t know had an Amish settlement. Thanks for stopping by.
It sounds like a really interesting book. Thank you for sharing.
Author
Diana, I really enjoyed this book by Susan Lantz Simpson! So glad you stopped by.
I love Amish fiction! The simple lifestyle, the strong community ties, close knit families, and faith. Sometimes you just need a feel-good read like that!
Thanks for the book recommendation, I’ll have to check out Susan’s book!
Author
I like reading about the simple lifestyle, too, Trixi. Thanks for dropping by and commenting!