Liza's Second Chance

Molly Jebber

Jan 2018 · The Amish Charm Bakery Book 1 · Zebra Books

About this ebook

The sweet welcome of straight-from-the-oven sugar cookies and hot cocoa. The warm invitation of apple pie and fresh cold milk. In 1912 Ohio, the Amish Charm Bakery is the heart of a close-knit, faith-nourished community, where people can find a refuge, a place to start again—and love that can make their lives new . . .

For Liza Schrock, the bakery her late husband bought was an unexpected haven from their unhappy arranged marriage. Now she's perfectly content to cook up mouth-watering delights for her hometown, give to those alone or in trouble—and remain happily unwed. And though she's willing to give handsome, newly-arrived widower Jacob Graber all the help he desperately needs, she is sure they can stay just friends . . .

But as Liza also tries to aid Jacob's troubled teenage daughter, she starts caring far too much for his gentle ways and steadfast hopes. And when a wrenching secret she must keep comes between them, can Liza find the faith to risk opening her heart again—and reach for one more chance at real love?

Praise for Molly Jebber’s Keepsake Pocket Quilt novels

“Endearing characters and a delightful story make this a keeper for fans of Amish romance.”
--Emma Miller

“Jebber is a talented author who always gives readers what they have come to expect from her books.”
– RT Book Reviews

Ratings and reviews

Liza’s Second Chance by Molly Jebber is the first novel in The Amish Charm Bakery series. We go back in time to 1912 in Charm, Ohio. Paul Schrock purchased the bakery for Liza (as an investment), and Liza considers the bakery her haven. Liza was happy to be off in her bakery each day making delectable delights for her customers. It allowed her to be away from her husband’s criticisms (mental abuse). Paul projected a different persona to the community. Liza never told a soul about her miserable marriage. He has been gone a year, and Liza is happy with her single status. Then Jacob Graber and his troubled daughter, Ellie arrive in town. Esther, Liza’s sister, believes Jacob would be the perfect mate for Liza (a matchmaker at heart). Ellie has a belligerent attitude and ruined Jacob’s last relationship. Jacob moved them to Charm to give Ellie a chance to start over, but the outside world fascinates her. Liza aids Jacob and Ellie in adjusting to the new town. She introduces Ellie to her niece, Hannah hoping they will become friends (and it will help Ellie’s attitude). Things seem to be improving with Ellie, but then she disappears into the English world with a young man. Why did she take off and where did she go? While Ellie is away, Jacob and Liza spend time together and grow closer. Jacob wishes to marry, but Liza is reluctant. What would happen when Ellie returns? Will there be a happily ever after for Liza and Jacob? Liza’s Second Chance is nicely written and has a nice flow. I found the book easy to read. The author incorporated major events from the time-period like the sinking of the Titanic, the Olympics, and Harry Houdini. I did find a repetition of information. Details surrounding Liza’s first marriage for example are repeated several times. Amish words are interjected into the dialogue. The meaning of them can be discerned from the text. Christian elements include scripture, accepting God and his plan for a person’s life, forgiveness, power of prayer and having faith. We get to see the importance of family and friends. Liza has a close relationship with her family and they are happy to include the Graber family. I felt that the author could have developed the characters more. There is a lack of details on the main characters background that could have given them depth. I did become annoyed with Jacob at times. Liza wants to allow time for a friendship to develop between herself and Ellie, but Jacob keeps forcing the issue. His lack of understanding was frustrating for me. Liza’s Second Chance is a light, sweet Amish romance that will appeal to fans of Amish fiction.

I bought the paperback.it is really good. :)

About the author

Molly Jebber’s award-winning books have been featured on Publishers Weekly’s Best Ten Recommended Reads, in USA Today’s HEA, RT Book Reviews and many other media sites. You’ll also find her on RWA’s Honor Roll. She tours and speaks about Amish history/traditions, writing, marketing, publishing, and about her books. She loves God, her family, friends. She enjoys swimming, golf, reading, and says yes to butterscotch pie and parasailing, but no to coconut and skydiving! Visit www.mollyjebber.com for a complete list of her books and speaking events.