Naomi's Gift

Title: NAOMI’S GIFT
Author: Amy Clipston
Publisher: Zondervan
September 2011
ISBN: 978-0-310-32735-8
Genre: Inspirational/Amish/Christmas

Naomi King has had her heart broken twice and she is the laughing stock of her Amish community the way she has chased men. Now she is ashamed and wants to change her ways, determined she’ll stay single rather than make a fool out of herself over a man again. She is working at her family’s quilt booth, selling quilts and is trying to find her way, despite being ashamed to be out in public.

Caleb Schmucker and his daughter Susie are visiting family for the holidays. His wife has died two years prior and Caleb maintains he is not ready to move on despite his family’s attempts to match make. He notices the beautiful Naomi as soon as his daughter discovers her but despite attempts to get near her at community events, Naomi tries to avoid him. Not only that, but his family warn him away from her, saying that she’s bad news and inappropriate.

Susie has fallen in love with Naomi and seems determined to find her at every event. But Caleb’s family continue to warn him away. Will they back off enough to let Caleb and Susie find their own wife/mother? Or will they ruin any chance Caleb and Naomi have?

NAOMI’S GIFT is Ms. Clipston’s latest Christmas novella. It is a real cute story about a widower finding a second chance at love at Christmas time. Naomi is a realistic heroine who’d made a few mistakes and as a result was judged harshly by the community for every move she made. Caleb is still hurting and mourning his much loved wife, and he doesn’t want to be forced into another relationship when he’s not ready.

If you are looking for a new Amish Christmas novella to read then NAOMI’S GIFT is a good book to pick up. Short enough to be read in one sitting, but easy to put down if you need to go back a dozen cookies or wrap gifts or entertain unexpected guests. Discussion questions and a recipe are included at the end of the book. $14.99 hardcover. 180 pages.