The Gift

By Wanda E. Brunstetter

Book 2 in the Prairie State Friends trilogy!
A Modern Amish Couple Enters Marriage of Convenience

Follow the heart-wrenching story of Adam Beachy, whose mother walked out on him and his family—and away from the Amish faith. Now he balks at the idea of ever marrying and having a family of his own. But when tragedy strikes, Adam is suddenly a father figure to his three nieces and finds himself needing a wife. Despite their differences over her practice of reflexology, Leah Mast seems the best option to fill that role. Can they make it work in a modern-day marriage of convenience? 

Book 1 - The Decision
Book 3- The Restoration

• Language: English
• Publisher: Barbour Publishing
• Release date: Aug 1, 2015
• ISBN: 9781634095617

Wanda E. Brunstetter

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written more than 100 books translated in four languages. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards. Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs. When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com. 

Book preview

Arthur, Illinois

As clouds, black and boiling, filled the darkening sky, Leah Mast pedaled her bicycle harder, knowing that if she didn’t get home soon, she’d be caught in a downpour. The muscles in her calves felt as if they could give out at any moment, but she ignored the pain, concentrating on just getting home. Leah had noticed the sky darkening before she left the house. So much for thinking she could outsmart the weather.

Guess this is what I get for taking my bike instead of the horse and buggy, she muttered, moving to the shoulder of the road as a car sped past. Too bad I can’t pedal as fast as that car.

Right after eating breakfast and helping her mother with the dishes, Leah had bicycled to Family Health Foods, a mile south of Arthur, to buy some massage lotion. She’d scheduled a few people for foot treatments this afternoon and needed to restock her supply.

With determination, Leah continued her trek toward home. Attempting to keep her mind off the leg cramps that threatened with each downward push, she thought about the special relationship she’d had with her maternal grandmother, who had taught her reflexology. During her lifetime, Grandma Yoder had helped a good many people with her gift of healing.

Leah had the gift too. At least that’s what Grandma had always told her. Many Amish people in Leah’s community, as well as some Englishers, came to her for foot treatments. Of course she couldn’t charge a set fee for her services, since she didn’t have a license to practice reflexology. But the people who came to Leah always gave her a donation. She treated back and shoulder pain, sinus congestion, sore throats, headaches, and insomnia. She also used reflexology to help folks relax, balance their body, and increase blood circulation. When people came to her with more serious illnesses, she always suggested that they see a doctor, because some things she simply could not help.

A clap of thunder sounded, bringing Leah’s thoughts to a halt. Big drops of rain pelted her body and stung her face. This was a cloudburst, not an ordinary gentle rainfall. If it kept up, she’d be drenched by the time she made it home—that is, if she could see well enough to get there. The rain came down sideways, and Leah could hardly keep her eyes open. She hoped this was just a freak storm that would move out as quickly as possible. Well, there was nothing she could do about the weather except keep pedaling as fast as she could.

The clip-clop of a horse’s hooves caused Leah to look over her shoulder. She guided her bike farther off the road and was surprised when the horse and buggy stopped behind her. The driver’s side door opened, and Adam Beachy called, Do you need a ride?

Astonished by his invitation, Leah quit pedaling. What about my bike? she asked as the rain dribbled over her face.

Not a problem. Adam stuck his blond head out and pointed to the rear of his buggy. It was then that Leah realized he was driving his market buggy. Partially enclosed, it had an open wooden bed that extended from the back. If it was empty, there would be plenty of room for her bicycle in the bed.

Leah climbed off and was about to push the bike around back, when Adam shouted, If you’ll get in my buggy and hold the reins, I’ll put your bicycle in and snug it in place.

Shivering from the drenching rain, Leah climbed into Adam’s buggy and grabbed the reins, while Adam stepped out and picked up her bicycle.

Leah felt soaked clear through to her skin, and her muscles continued to cramp. It would be a miracle if she ever warmed up. Even though it was the middle of June, a storm like this could chill a person to the bone.

"Danki," Leah said when Adam climbed back into the buggy. Her breathing was getting back to normal, but her wet clothing clinging to her drenched skin made her feel icy cold.

Leah handed the reins back to Adam, and using the sleeve of her dress, she wiped rainwater from her face. I appreciate you stopping, because I need to get home and change out of these wet clothes before Sara Miller comes for a reflexology treatment this afternoon.

With water dripping off his chin, Adam’s brown eyes squinted as he wrinkled his nose like some foul odor had permeated the buggy. So you’re still foot doctoring, huh? He reached behind his seat and handed Leah a small blanket.

She gave a quick nod, wrapping the cover around her shoulders. Even though the blanket pressed her soggy dress against her skin, Leah was grateful for its warmth.

Humph! I can’t believe there are still people who believe in all that hocus-pocus.

Gritting her teeth, Leah pulled the blanket tighter. Reflexology is not hocus-pocus; it’s a form of bodywork that focuses on the feet, and—

And nobody’s ever been cured of anything by having their feet massaged. Adam snapped the reins and directed his horse onto the road. You oughtta quit taking people’s money for something that’s fake and get a real job, Leah.

Fuming, Leah nearly had to bite her tongue to keep from shouting at him. In all her twenty-five years, she’d never met such an opinionated, rude man! Adam had only said a few words to her whenever she’d visited his hardware store, and he had never made eye contact until now. Leah had also observed how, after their biweekly church services, Adam often hurried off, sometimes not even staying for the meal that followed. She’d always thought it was strange that he didn’t linger to visit with the men after church, like most others did. Apparently he wasn’t much for socializing. No wonder he isn’t married, she thought. No woman looking for a husband would put up with being talked to like that. And what does he know about reflexology, anyway?

Unable to hold her tongue, Leah snapped her head in Adam’s direction. For your information, Mr. Beachy, there are reflex areas on people’s feet that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body. Those who practice reflexology believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the corresponding organs through energetic pathways.

Puh! Is that so? Just what illnesses have you helped cure, Leah?

Many, in fact. Leah held up one finger. Some people who come to me get relief from headaches and stress.

Adam flapped his hand in her direction, which only fueled her irritation. Any kind of massage can make a person relax and feel less tension. Besides, I wouldn’t call stress an illness.

Maybe not in itself, but stress can lead to many different ailments, including headaches. Leah held up a second finger. Some folks who get reflexology treatments have found relief from back pain. Before Adam could respond, a third finger came up. And some with digestive disorders or insomnia have felt better after I’ve worked on their feet. I believe my ability to help them is a gift.

Adam shook his head. I’m not interested in hearing a bunch of mumbo jumbo. If people are willing to pay whatever fee you’re charging and believe they’ll get well, that’s up to them, but I’m not a believer in that sort of thing.

His tone cut like glass. Leah crossed her arms and glared at him. The people who come to me for treatments believe in what I’m doing, and I don’t have a set fee. I work on anyone’s feet for a donation, which means whatever they can afford.

Adam glowered at her. At least Leah thought it was a glower. To give him the benefit of the doubt, she supposed he could have a case of indigestion. Well, he said with a huff, you’ll never catch me taking off my shoes and socks so someone like you can press on my feet.

Someone like me? Leah’s face burned. Oh, you don’t have to worry about that, Adam Beachy. Even if you gave me a hundred-dollar donation, I would never touch your smelly feet!

You have a right to your opinion, she muttered.

That’s right, I sure do.

And I have a right to mine. Refusing to look at Adam, Leah focused on the road ahead. Her folks’ house wasn’t too far from here, so she should be able to make it that far without saying anything more. She would have liked to give Adam some specific details on reflexology, but what would be the point? He had obviously made up his mind, so she probably wouldn’t get very far defending her skill.

I wish now I’d never accepted a ride from him, she fumed. I’d have been better off riding my bike the rest of the way home, even in the drenching rain.

Where have you been that you got caught in this storm? Adam’s deep voice penetrated Leah’s angry thoughts.

She looked down at the plastic sack in her hands, unwilling to tell him that she’d bought massage lotion to use on Sara’s feet. He’d probably have something negative to say about that too. I just needed something at the health food store, she murmured, wiping a drop of water as it trickled down her nose.

Adam clucked to his horse to get him moving a bit faster. He was probably as anxious to drop Leah off at her house as she was to get there.

Leah watched Adam pull back on the reins, guiding his horse through a waterlogged area. The small creek, which normally flowed through a pipe under the road, now splashed across the asphalt pavement. As the horse walked slowly through the fast-flooding creek, she noticed the cause of the rising water. The pipe was clogged with debris that had washed down from farther up. Small branches and clumps of dead leaves had caused the creek to detour from its natural flow. The water was still shallow, but if the rain kept coming down like it was, the road might become impassable. Thankfully, they’d made it this far and would hopefully make it home before the storm got any worse.

They rode in silence the rest of the way, and Leah felt relief when Adam directed his horse and buggy up her folks’ driveway. Except for that one small area of flooding, the drive had been without incident.

I’ll get your bicycle. Adam guided his horse up to the hitching rack. Before Leah could respond, he jumped out of the buggy, secured the animal, and went around back.

Leah climbed out too. Danki for the ride, she said when Adam pushed her bike around the side of the buggy. She noticed how the rain poured from the top of his hat.

Sure, no problem. Adam speedily untied his horse, stepped back into the buggy, and as he backed the horse away from the wooden rail, he gave a quick wave.

Leah waved in response then, dodging puddles, made a dash for the house. If Adam hadn’t acted so negatively toward her reflexology, in appreciation of him bringing her home, she might have invited him in for a cup of hot tea and the chance to dry off a little while waiting for the storm to subside. But after that conversation, Leah hoped she would never again be put in a position where she’d have to be alone with Adam Beachy. He might be the most attractive single Amish man in Arthur, but as far as she was concerned, he had the personality of a donkey!

Leah Mast may be pretty, but she’s sure opinionated, Adam muttered as he headed for home. No wonder she’s not married."

Adam had never met a woman as independently determined as Leah. Of course, he hadn’t known that many women personally, since he kept to himself as much as possible when it came to socializing. At a young age, Adam had reached the conclusion that he would never marry. It wasn’t that he had no interest in the opposite sex—he just didn’t trust them.

Bringing his thoughts to a halt, lest he start feeling sorry for himself, Adam concentrated on the road ahead. It was still raining hard, making it difficult to see. If he didn’t pay close attention, he could end up off the road. So far, his horse, Flash, was behaving himself and didn’t seem to mind the driving rain. Unfortunately, Adam couldn’t say the same about his own demeanor. Thanks to his generosity in giving Leah a ride home and then getting out in this horrible weather to transport her bike, he was wet and cold. Drips of rainwater still hung on the brim of his hat, and his shirt and trousers felt like a second skin. He couldn’t wait to get home and out of the soaking wet clothes. First and most importantly, though, Adam knew he had to keep his mind on the road, or he might not make it home at all.

Maybe I should have kept going when I saw Leah riding her bike. She was already soaking wet by the time I came upon her. If I hadn’t picked her up, we’d never have had that conversation about foot doctoring.

The more Adam thought about it, the more upset he became. Leah reminded him of someone he’d rather forget—not in looks, but in that sure-of-herself attitude. Well, the pretty woman with blue-green eyes and golden brown hair could practice reflexology all she wanted, but it wouldn’t change the fact that it was a waste of time. If certain people thought otherwise and wanted to give her a donation, that was their business, but Adam would never let Leah touch his feet!

"Ach, my, you’re sopping wet!" Mom exclaimed when Leah found her in the utility room, washing clothes.

I got caught in the downpour, Leah replied.

I wish you would have taken the buggy instead of your bike. I’m guessing by now you probably wish that too.

Leah nodded. Where’s Sparky?

Last time I looked he was lying just inside the barn.

Guess he doesn’t want to get wet either. Leah chuckled, wiping another drop of rainwater rolling down the middle of her forehead. "Schmaert dog."

Until I closed the window, the rain was actually blowing into this room, even with the large overhang on the porch to protect it. Mom handed Leah a clean towel. You’d better dry off some before you head to your room to change, or you’ll be leaving a trail of water.

Danki, Mom. Leah removed her saturated head covering and hung it on a wall peg; then she blotted her hair with the towel. I’d probably look even worse if Adam Beachy hadn’t come along and offered me a ride home.

A wide smile stretched across Mom’s face, and her thinning eyelashes fluttered above her dark brown eyes. That was sure nice of him. Did it give you a chance to get better acquainted?

A jolt of heat traveled from Leah’s neck to her face, despite the chill she felt on the rest of her body. Oh, we got better acquainted, all right. I found out that Adam doesn’t believe in reflexology, and he really didn’t have much of anything nice to say.

Mom’s lips compressed. I’m sorry to hear that. I was hoping …

What were you hoping … that Adam might be interested in courting me?

Mom pulled a towel free from the wringer washer and placed it in the wicker basket at her feet. Now that you brought up the subject, it would be nice if you had a suitor, don’t you think?

Leah shook her head. I don’t need a man in my life right now. What I do need is to get out of these wet clothes so I’m ready when Sara Miller shows up for her reflexology appointment.

Mom glanced at the battery-operated clock on the wall to her left. Oh that’s right. You did mention before you left that you had a few appointments this afternoon.

Leah nodded and turned toward the stairs but paused when she smelled a delicious aroma coming from the kitchen. Do you have something on the stove, Mom?

"Jah. It may be the middle of summer, but on a rainy day such as this, I thought a pot of vegetable soup would taste good for our supper tonight. I also made a loaf of homemade bread. Mom gestured to the adjoining room. Would you mind checking on the soup before you go upstairs?"

Sure, Mom, no problem. Oh, and if Sara gets here before I’ve changed, please tell her to go on down to the basement, and that I’ll meet her there.

Okay, I’ll let her know.

Leah blotted her arms and legs with the towel then went to the kitchen to check on the soup. Taking a sip of the broth, she smacked her lips. Yum. I can’t wait till suppertime. Turning the burner down so the soup could simmer, she left the room.

As Leah made her way up the stairs, she thought about her mother’s comment about a suitor. Although Leah acted like she didn’t care, she longed to be a wife and mother. But so far, the right man had not come along. No one, that is, who had swept Leah off her feet. It was probably wishful thinking, but she wanted to fall in love with a man who made her heart beat like a thundering herd of horses. Leah’s friends Elaine Schrock and Priscilla Hershberger both had boyfriends. Priscilla was being courted by Elam Gingerich, and Elaine had recently started seeing Ben Otto, who was fairly new to the area. She figured they’d both be married with children long before she had a suitor.

Leah entered her room, removed her wet clothes, and changed into a clean, dry dress. Here I am, twenty-five years old already, and I don’t even have a boyfriend, much less the prospect of marriage. Maybe it’s not meant for me to get married. Leah wasn’t going to marry just anyone merely because time was running out before she’d be considered an old maid. I must leave things in God’s hands and remember Isaiah 30:15, the verse I read last night: In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. Leah sighed. I am certainly not quiet by nature. Adam sure got under my skin today, and I probably said more than I should have in defense of myself. Well, he said more than he should have too.

When Leah entered the basement a short time later, Sara was sitting in the recliner with her shoes and stockings off. Her normally slender legs and feet looked a bit swollen, and several strands of her medium brown hair peeked out from under her head covering. Sara’s shoulders were slumped, and Leah noticed dark circles beneath her friend’s brown eyes.

Sorry for making you wait, Leah apologized. I rode my bike to the health food store earlier and got caught in that downpour, so I had to change out of my wet clothes.

It’s not a problem; I haven’t been here that long. Sara motioned to a plastic container on the small table to her right. I brought you some chocolate-chip cookies that I baked this morning.

Danki. That was nice of you. Except for bread, neither Mom nor I have done much baking lately. We’ve been too busy picking strawberries from our garden and making them into jelly. Leah smiled. Last night, I was going to make a strawberry cheeseball but decided to make a chocolate-chip one instead.

Sara smacked her lips. I’ll bet that was good.

Leah nodded and took a seat on the stool in front of the recliner to begin working on Sara’s feet. I enjoy making cheeseballs, and it’s always fun to try out new combinations. She picked up the bottle of lotion, poured some into her hands, and rubbed it gently into Sara’s feet. How have you been feeling lately? Are you having any unusual symptoms with your pregnancy?

No, not really. In fact, my symptoms have actually diminished, which the doctor said often happens to pregnant women who have MS.

That’s good to hear. So you’re not having any problems at all?

Not with my MS, but my lower back has begun to hurt, and it’s hard to sleep. Sara frowned. I’m only four-and-a-half-months pregnant, so I wasn’t expecting back pain this early. I didn’t experience it at all when I was carrying Mark, but I know that many women have trouble with their back—especially toward the end of their third trimester.

Leah began to work on the heel of Sara’s right foot. After a while, she moved to the other foot. Is that tender? she asked when Sara winced.

Sara nodded. Jah, a little.

Leah worked on Sara’s left foot for several minutes, then she asked her to stand and walk around for a bit.

My back feels much better. Danki, Leah. The dimples in Sara’s cheeks deepened when she smiled.

You’re welcome. Let me know if it flares up again or if you need another foot treatment just to help you relax.

I will. Sara put on her shoes and stockings.

Now let me rub your neck a bit before you go. Leah usually did that for most of her patients. It helped them relax and finished the treatment on a positive note.

As Leah massaged Sara’s neck, they talked about the weather.

How were the roads when you came here? Leah asked. Were any sections flooded?

At one place, Sara said as Leah worked the knots out of her neck, but my horse cooperated well and walked right through it without a problem.

That’s good. Some horses get spooked over things like water in the road.

You’re right about that. Sara slipped some money into the jar Leah had set on the small table near the chair. Guess I’d better go. Jonah took some time away from his buggy shop to watch Mark so I could come here, and I’m sure he’s anxious to get back to work.

Leah hugged Sara, and as the young woman headed up the stairs, Leah thought about her friend Elaine, who had once been courted by Jonah. Listening to Elaine talk about Ben, Leah wondered if she cared for him as much as she had Jonah.

Since she had a few minutes until Margaret Kauffman, their bishop’s wife, arrived for her treatment, Leah washed her hands and tasted one of the cookies Sara had brought. It was soft and chewy, and she relished the taste of chocolate along with the little bits of nuts inside. Tempted to eat a second cookie, she put the lid back on the container and took a seat in the recliner to wait for Margaret. Maybe later this evening, she’d have another cookie with a cup of hot tea.

Drawing in a deep breath, Leah closed her eyes. If she wasn’t careful, it would be easy to succumb to sleep. A vision of Adam Beachy flashed into Leah’s mind, and her eyes snapped open. Now why was I thinking about him again?

Leah stood and opened the lid on the plastic container. She was on the verge of taking another cookie, despite her resolve, when she heard footsteps coming down the stairs. Closing the lid, she turned and smiled at Margaret. Did your husband bring you here today, or did you come alone?

I brought my own horse and buggy. Margaret placed her black umbrella on the floor near the chair. It has stopped raining, but it sure came down hard for a while there. She removed her cape and black outer bonnet, revealing her white head covering, perched on top of her salt-and-pepper hair.

I know. I got caught in the downpour when I was riding my bike earlier. Leah motioned to the recliner. "If you’re ready, why don’t you take a seat? Oh, and if you’re hungry, there’s some chocolate-chip kichlin there on the table. Sara Miller made them."

Margaret’s pale blue eyes twinkled when she smiled and took two cookies. Anything with chocolate in it appeals to me. She took a seat in the recliner and ate both cookies before removing her shoes and socks. Suddenly, a strange look came over her face and she started wheezing, as though she was having trouble catching her breath. I—I think I’m having a reaction to what I just ate. I feel a strange tightness in my throat and chest—it’s like I can’t breathe.

Leah’s shoulders tightened as perspiration beaded on her forehead. She’d heard about allergic reactions to certain foods, but she’d never dealt with one before. Have you ever had an attack like this?

Margaret shook her head.

Knowing she needed to get help for their bishop’s wife, she told Margaret to lie back in the chair and try to stay calm. Then Leah rushed upstairs, quickly told Mom what had happened and asked her to go downstairs and keep an eye on Margaret, while she ran outside. Her heart hammering, she raced for the phone shack to call 911.

I heard that Margaret Kauffman had an allergic reaction while you were working on her feet yesterday," Leah’s friend Priscilla said as they ate supper together at Yoder’s Kitchen the following day.

Leah nodded and reached for her glass of lemonade. I never even got started on her feet, because it came on after she’d eaten a couple of the cookies Sara Miller had brought earlier. When Margaret said she was having trouble breathing, I knew I needed to get help for her right away.

Did you know it was a reaction to what she ate, or did you think it might be something else? Priscilla’s coffee-colored eyes revealed the depth of her concern.

"I wasn’t sure what to think at first, but then Margaret said she thought she was having an allergic reaction. So I asked my mamm to stay with her, while I rushed out to the phone shack and called 911. Leah paused to take a drink. When the paramedics got there, they knew what to do, and at the hospital, they ran tests that revealed Margaret’s allergic to walnuts, which were in the chocolate-chip cookies."

It’s good she found that out so she can be careful not to eat anything else with nuts, Priscilla said before taking a bite of salad. If she’s allergic to walnuts, she might have that same reaction to other kinds of nuts as well.

The doctor wrote Margaret a prescription for an EpiPen, which she will keep with her in case an incident like that ever happens again, Leah explained.

That must have been frightening, not only for Margaret, but for you as well.

Jah, it was. Leah sipped more lemonade. You know, it’s too bad Elaine couldn’t join us this evening. It’s been awhile since the three of us had a good visit.

I was hoping she could come too, but she has a dinner scheduled this evening for a large tour group.

That’s right; I do remember her saying that. Leah paused to eat some of her salad. Oh, I forgot to mention that Mom sent a container of vegetable soup for you and your parents. It’s in a cooler out in my buggy. I’ll get it for you after we eat. It might be something you can enjoy for lunch tomorrow.

Priscilla smiled. Please tell your mamm I said danki.

I will. She made enough soup to feed a small barn-raising crew, so she was more than happy to share.

We enjoy anything your mamm makes because she is such a good cook.

You’re right about that. I do all right in the kitchen, but my cooking skills aren’t nearly as good as hers. Glancing to her left, Leah cringed when she noticed Adam enter the restaurant. Trying to suppress a cough, she almost choked on the little tomato she was chewing. She was relieved when the hostess handed Adam a takeout box, which meant he wasn’t planning to stay.

Before Leah had a chance to look away, Adam glanced in her direction and gave a brief nod. She smiled in return then quickly focused on her salad.

Priscilla bumped Leah’s foot under the table. Your face is red. Are you okay?

I’m fine, Leah muttered. She glanced back at Adam and was relieved when she saw him go out the door.

Priscilla tipped her head, looking curiously at Leah. Are you interested in Adam Beachy? Is that why your cheeks are so pink?

Leah touched her hot cheeks. No, of course not!

Is he interested in you?

The only person Adam’s interested in is himself and his biased opinions.

What makes you say that?

Leah proceeded to tell Priscilla about the ride Adam had given her and his attitude toward reflexology. He thinks it’s hocus-pocus.

Priscilla’s eyes narrowed. "That’s lecherich."

You’re right, it is ridiculous.

How would Adam know anything about reflexology?

Leah shrugged. "All I know

Reviews for The Gift

[maydacat_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A tragedy leaves Adam to raise his three young nieces. Leah steps in watch the children while Adam is at work. Though they have only begun to be friends, their shared love for the children leads them to take a step toward a new life together. Adam is still dealing with the disappointments of his own childhood, which are brought to the forefront with the arrival of a stranger in town. This story is quite complex in structure. It deals with human fragility, suffering, grudges, struggles, and more. The characters are real; readers will feel their pain. The second in the trilogy, the novel ends but the story does not. This well-written tale will have readers reaching for the finale novel in the series post-haste.

[judyg54 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This story can stand alone in this series, but it does pick up where book one ended and has all the same characters in this book as the last one. This story is about Leah Mast and how her desire for a family is met in a most unusual way. Adam Beachy ends up with his three little nieces and needs help. Leah goes from watching them during the day, to agreeing to a marriage of convenience with Adam. Adam has some issues to work out regarding his past and together these two will make the marriage of convenience work and turn into one of love.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Leah Mast has an ability to help her neighbors and heal their ailments by practicing reflexology and she is thankful that God has given her this talent. Adam Beachy has total disdain for anyone who believes in this practice and he is very vocal about his aversion. Readers meet both of these characters in the first few pages of The Gift, the second book of the Prairie State Friends series, and we are immediately given a glimpse of how complicated a relationship between the two of them would be. Soon, Adam is faced with the prospect of raising his three orphaned nieces and who does he seek for help? Yes, it is Leah but it is only because he is desperate! A proposal of marriage follows but no love is involved; this will be a marriage for his convenience only.

As I read this, I found myself wondering if Leah is making a mistake because Adam is very judgmental and very unforgiving but Brunstetter has a talent for developing characters that are flawed people but ultimately, redeemable human beings.

This book also gives us an update on characters we met in The Decision, the first book in the Prairie State Friends series. It is nice to revisit them but their new situations and added conflicts leave us with questions that I hope will be answered in book three.

Wanda Brunstetter is famous for her Amish themed books and her fans will not be disappointed.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

[sandylw · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This novel continues the saga of Leah Mast and Adam Beachy. Adam has become a rather bitter young man who has difficulty getting along socially. Leah practices reflexology and is able to help many people who have a variety of ailments. The story continues to follow Jonah Miller and Elaine Strock as they continue on their parallel journeys. The story keeps the story moving at a nice pace and provides insight into Amish life. I enjoyed it very much. I read all three books in this trilogy and enjoyed each one of them.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Fantastic! This is the second book in the Prairie State Friends series. This seemed to stand alone but I recommend reading the first in the series because Wanda E. Brunstetter books are always wonderful. I have never read one of hers that I didn't like. This one has Leah Mast who has a gift of healing using reflexology and Adam Beachy who wants nothing to do with reflexology because of something that happened in his childhood. They meet because Adam has a tragedy and his sister and husband die and he is left to raise their children. Leah helps him to care for them. This book has a great bit of romance and just a hint of what will happen next. I really recommend this series. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion.

[jcgirl-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Gift a book by Wanda E. Brunstetter is the second in the series of Prairie State Friends. The story of Leah Mast, who has a special gift of healing, specifically reflexology, treating people ailments by putting pressure on the foot of her ailing patient. Adam Beachy is one of many in her community who thinks reflexology is harmful and should not be practiced. When a tragedy strikes, Adam must humbly turn to Leah to see if she will become his wife. Needing help to raise his nieces Leah thinks she can still practice reflexology, but Adam is totally against it. Putting aside her pride Leah decides to marry Adam and the remainder of the book shows the conflict between them as they grow in love and understand as a couple. Wanda E. Brunstetter
radiantly incorporate the Christian faith through the lives of her characters in the Amish community. I continue to adore the books by Wanda and once again this book did not disappoint. I am anxiously waiting for the third book in the series to come out because I know Wanda will not fail in bringing another fantastic installment of her series.

[arlenadean · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: The Gift
Author: Wanda E. Brunstetter
Publisher: Shiloh Run Press
Series: Prairie State Friends #2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Gift" by Wanda Brunstetter

My Thoughts....

I found 'The Gift' a second in this series was a good read as we get a well written story that will keep your attention as you will be kept turning the pages. We are presented with a Amish story where we find Adam Beachy needing help after a tragedy not that he hadn't already had one with the way his mom had left his family. What happens as he becomes caretaker of his three nieces will really be some read. And the fact that he needs a wife to help him...a marriage of convenience...well this is where Leah Mast comes into the picture as she cared for Adams' nieces during the day and did her reflexology in the evening until she decided to marry Adam for the sake of the children. Now, what will come of this...was there any love? What was up with Adam not believing in reflexology? I liked the way this author was able to present these characters life's to the reader where we find hope, love, disappointments, tragedy, struggles as well as longing through all the emotional parts of this storyline that flowed very well to even bringing in the hummingbirds and the other animals were a perfect fit into this story. Also the topic of reflexology was a great interesting part of this wonderful story as the reader will see Adam's past as well as Leah's. Be ready for many twist that you keep you alert because the author seems to do this so often in this novels. You will be definitely be kept wondering what will be coming next as the reader sees how well this author will bring it all out ...'love, loss and family issues.' Will Adams find forgiveness and peace that he needs in his life? Will he ever be able to 'trust, obey, love and forgive? There will be a lots going on in "The Gift" that will tie together toward the end, so you will have to keep up with this story [that is presented to the reader in third person point of view]. Even though this novel is a standalone read ... to understand a little more about some of the characters from the pass, I would suggest you read the first series...'The Decision' first. And as always...the author gives us a recipes ...this time from Leah...'a chocolate chip cheeseball.'

My final thoughts....

By the end of this story the reader will be left only wanting more of this inspirational read as we wait for the next series as we will be left with a cliffhanger with many unanswered questions as the reader will be left wondering .... will Adam be able to put aside the pass? I guess we will have to wait for this answer and more when the next series...'The Revelation' is ready to read.

I received a copy through NOR in exchange for an honest review.

[kykim-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An Awesome Story With Love, Forgiveness, acceptance, and tolerance for others.

The Gift by Wanda F. Brunstetter is the second book in the Prairie State Friend series, (The Decision is #1) , but is also a great stand-alone book. I didn't read the first book in the series and had no problem with following along in this one. Although now I want to go back and read The Decision.

I learned a few things about Leah's passions, hummingbirds and reflexology. Was interesting to read and learn about. Leah decides to take Adam up on his proposal of marriage to help him raise his 3 nieces, even though it will be a marriage in name only or will it?


The Gift is an awesome story with love, forgiveness,acceptance, and tolerance for others. The end of the book left me wanting more! Will Adam forgive Cora? Or will Cora and Jared move back to Chicago? Will Adam and Leah have a baby of their own to add to their family? I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series to see how these characters stories play out.

I received an ARC from Barbour Publishing and NetGallery in exchange for my honest review

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The Gift by Wanda E. Brunstetter is the second book in Prairie State Friends series. Leah Mast learned reflexology from her Grandmother Yoder as a teenager and she uses those skills to help those in her community. Since she is not licensed, she only accepts donations for her services. Adam Beachy is really against reflexology (there has to be a story behind his attitude) and makes it a point to tell Leah about his feelings when he gives her a lift home during the rain (she was riding her bike).

Adam is on his front porch waiting for the arrival of his sister, Mary and her family when police officers arrive. They were in an auto accident. Mary and her husband, Amos were severely injured and did not make it. Adam is left with taking care of their three girls (Amy-10, Linda-7, and Carrie-4). Adam is used to living alone and running his hardware store. Adam does not have a clue how to raise three girls. Leah’s mother until she has to go take care of her sister who is pregnant and bedridden. Leah takes over the care of the girls during the day. She schedules her reflexology appointments for evenings when she is at home (she feels that her talents for healing are a gift from God). When Leah tries to take care of Amy’s headache one day with reflexology, Adam is very upset. He insists that Leah not use it on any of his children. What does Adam have against reflexology? Adam is grateful for Leah’s help with the children, but he needs a wife. The children care for Leah and respond to her. Adam proposes a marriage of convenience. Will it work out between Adam and Leah?

Cora Finley is a nurse in Chicago, Illinois. She is divorced and has a teenage son named Jared. Jared has been getting into trouble since the divorce. He has been hanging around with the wrong crowd. Cora has decided to move to a more rural area and get her son away from the bad influences. Cora gets a job in Arthur, Illinois at a clinic. Cora’s past, though, is about to catch up with her. Jonah Miller and Sara have married and are expecting their first child. Jonah was courting Elaine Schrock until her grandmother became ill. Elaine had to take care of her grandmother, Edna so she told Jonah a little lie (that she did not care for him). Elaine was hoping that Jonah would still be available after her grandmother passed away and that he would understand her reasoning. Unfortunately, Jonah married Sara within a few months. Elaine has started the dinners again at her farm (English visitors get a traditional Amish dinner and can ask questions about their life and culture) trying to move forward, but she misses Jonah.

The Gift was a typical Wanda E. Brunstetter novel. It is well-written and enjoyable to read. There is a lot going on in the novel, but it all ties together. I give The Gift 4 out of 5 stars (which means I liked it, but I did not love it). This is the second book in the series, but it can be read without reading the previous book (but it really helps to have read The Decision).

I received a complimentary copy of The Gift in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own.

[passionforbooks_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Gift, is the second book in the Prairie State Friends series. Once again author Wanda Brunstetter did not disappoint. This book kept me turning pages just as fast as my eyes could read.

I was several chapters into the story when a couple of new characters entered the picture. I was a bit stumped to how they fit in. Patience soon made everything crystal clear. It was a light bulb moment for me. I should have figured it out sooner but I didn’t!

I enjoyed that this book was not cut and dried. Issues, problems, and concerns, that cropped up in this story, would easily fit in with today’s world.

Without God in our lives can we learn to trust, obey, love, and forgive? Sometimes it is easy to trust, obey, love, but forgive? That can be a hard one.

When I got to the end of this book I was disappointed that it ended. I wanted the story to continue on and on. I can’t wait for book three to be released to find out what happens to all my favorite characters in this book.

I highly recommend this book to all who read this review. If you haven’t read book one, The Decision, do so.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Gift is the second book in this series at Arthur IL Amish Community, and reunite with our old friends, and especially the bond of friends Leah, Priscilla and Elaine. We ended the first book on a cliff- hanger and expect the same with this read.
We get caught up with all of our friends and begin new relationships, with the focus on our friends and their trip to matrimony. There are some real chuckles here, and some very sad happenings.
With the introduction of the Englisher from Chicago into the story, my mind was trying to figure out how she fit, and yes I did guess it. We all make some choices that we regret later, and this story has several story points of this nature, and we get an in-depth look into their lives.
When the story ended Adam seemed to be on the road towards forgiveness, he has a lot of bitterness left, and we can only home he finds peace. I am looking forward to the next book and answers to the many facets of the lives in this small community.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, Inc., and was not required to give a positive review.