Book Review: More Than a Marriage by Amy Lillard

More Than a Marriage (Quilting Circle Novella A) by Amy Lillard

From Amazon:

In the close-knit Amish community of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, a women’s quilting circle 

welcomes a new member who is struggling to keep her marriage together—or let it go . . .

Quiet and unassuming Tess Smiley is new to Wells Landing. She is also newly married to Jacob Smiley. But already she is finding that married life isn’t the gentle union of contented devotion she had envisioned. Rather, the old-fashioned qualities that had endeared her to Jacob have become a source of inner confusion. As his father did with his wife, Jacob has begun treating Tess like a servant, taking her for granted, no longer surprising her with little presents. And once he began his job at the Englisch shed company, he has become more interested in his company smartphone than in spending time with Tess . . .

Jacob can’t see what Tess is upset about and continues his boorish ways, ignoring her pleas to attend marriage classes. Tess loves Jacob with all her heart, but it’s her heart that tells her she must take a stand. With surprising determination, she asks for help from her new community and is welcomed into the home of her friend Clara Rose and her husband Obie. Only then does Jacob begin to see how deeply his behavior has hurt Tess. But is he too late? He may be contrite, but he will need to show much more than that to win her love all over again . 

My thoughts:

The story of Tess and Jacob of Well's Landing drew me in immediately.  I understood and remembered the feelings of a young couple new in their marriage. Insecurities, jealous feelings you may have of other marriage couples, and lack of communication, are issues that are addressed.  

Clara Rose was my favorite character.  She wasn't afraid to help Tess and Jacob in their marriage. She asks the right questions and tried not to interfere too much.  She spoke to Tess gently about second chances.  


Along the way Amy Lillard had me laughing and then the next minute stomping my foot along with Tess. More Than a Marriage is a great reminder that we are all human and everything may not be as it seems. 


Wonderful read!  

I was gifted this book by the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are my own.

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