The More the Merrier: An Amish Christmas Romance

Linda Byler

Oct 2019 · Sold by Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

From beloved Amish writer Linda Byler, comes a heartwarming Christmas romance set during the Great Depression.

It’s 1931, and times are tough for the Miller family, who are raising eight children in the midst of the Great Depression. When Eli Miller passes away unexpectedly, and then a fire destroys their barn, Annie has no idea how she’ll make ends meet. The Amish community rallies around her and the children, as is their custom, but as days turn into weeks and then into months, Annie’s friends and neighbors return to their own routines and seem to expect Annie to do the same. Annie knows she needs to stay strong for the children and figure out a way to keep everyone warm and clothed and fed, but she is heartbroken and exhausted. She reminds herself that God will provide, but every day feels like an uphill battle.

When Annie receives a letter from a widower with six children of his own, she tries to put it out of her mind. Her critical mother reminds her that it's too soon to start a new friendship with a man, and warns her that blending a family will be complicated. In the weeks and months to follow, Annie must learn to make her own decisions—and accept the consequences, good and bad—face her past, and embark on a new journey that will transform her and her large, complicated family. When life seems especially complicated one summer, she finds herself saying that by Christmas everything will start to come together, but she has no idea the challenges—and ultimately blessings—headed her way.

Ratings and reviews

The More the Merrier by Linda Byler is a sweet story. Annie Miller is left a widow with eight children to raise during the depression. Her eldest child has been hired out and his wages to help. But Annie needs to find a way to provide. Then her barn burns down and she almost dies. Annie is rescued by Dan Beiler who is a widower with six children of his own. Dan continues to think about Annie and decides to write her a letter to see if she would be interested in a friendship. The More the Merrier is a story about second chances, forgiveness and love. Linda takes us back to 1931 when everyone (except the 1%) is struggling to survive. We see Annie struggle each day to put food on the table for the kids. Annie must learn to make the decisions now that her husband, Eli is gone. Her life hits an all time low when the barn catches fire. Things always seem to get worse before they get better. Annie prays for guidance to make the right choices for herself and her children. Dan also worries about disrupting his kids’ lives and prays to God. They both want to follow His lead. I liked how they both had such a strong faith. We see that God answers our prayers in His own way and in His timing. I thought the story was realistic with engaging characters. I enjoyed The More the Merrier and look forward to reading more stories by Linda Byler. The More the Merrier is a heartwarming and inspiring story.

About the author

Linda Byler grew up Amish and is an active member of the Amish church today. She is the author of several bestselling fiction series, all set in the Amish world: The Dakota Series, Hester’s Hunt for Home, Lancaster Burning, Sadie’s Montana, and Lizzie Searches for Love. She has also written several Amish Christmas romance novels including A Dog for Christmas, Mary’s Christmas Goodbye, Little Amish Matchmaker, and Becky Meets Her Match. Linda is also well known within the Amish community as a columnist for a weekly Amish newspaper. She lives near Lancaster, Pennsylvania.