To begin with, we get a note of suspense as a mother aged twenty-five travels with her two little girls aged three to visit her relatives, hoping to evade followers. Dressed in red and purple, she couldn't look less Amish if she tried. But seeing them start to walk from the bus stop after gaining directions, a blacksmith of the Plain folk knows his duty is to offer a lift in his wagon. Willa Chase is a widow now, but she was only a teenager when her parents decided to leave the strict community. Due to unfortunate circumstances Willa has to keep moving on the wintry roads, hoping to find shelter among other relatives at Hope Springs all while expecting another baby.

John Miller, the farrier, has dedicated himself to his work since the early death of his wife. When Willa and the girls arrive in need of care, his determined little mother, Vera, is thrilled to see children around the farm and makes the most of the opportunity. To keep anonymity from outsiders, Willa reverts to her maiden name Lapp, but changing back to the faith she left won't be as easy as changing clothes. And suppose she has been traced? Her presence makes quandaries for John, even aside from shepherding her twins and teaching them the Deitsch names for the livestock. Plus, he has a sleigh to mend and deliver!

I really enjoyed seeing the contrast with the more progressive community of Bowman's Crossing, showing that whatever preconception we might carry of an Amish district is not necessarily correct. Another great character is the midwife, Nurse Janice Willard, who is trusted by Amish women although she is not one of them. She also appears to be much in demand in the farming community. Willa was unfortunate to suffer from a post-partum illness first time around and she is desperately afraid it will occur again. This well-written romance is suitable for adults or mature teens. Wrap up well for this Christmas themed novel, AMISH CHRISTMAS TWINS, and enjoy the characters finding their ways to reconciliation.

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