Book Review: Her Forbidden Christmas Match by Emma Miller

Yes, I will read Christmas themed books any time of the year. But actually, I did read this on in December and decided to share with everyone. Even if you’re ready to pack up your decorations and call Christmas done for this season, it’s not to late to build your TBR for Christmas 2025. And this one is an excellent one to put on the list!

Her Forbidden Christmas Match by Emma Miller
Series: Seven Amish Sisters – Book 5 of 6
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired
Publication Date: September 24, 2024
Genres: Amish Romance | Holiday Romance
Pages: 208
Format: paperback
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An Amish woman. A man who’s lost his way.

Can they find love this Christmas?

After leaving a harsh religious community, widower Aaron Raber won’t let anything separate him from his five-year-old daughter—not even his new job on a construction site. But that’s before he meets the disapproval of Willa Koffman. The stubborn Amish woman is convinced she has the perfect solution: she’ll babysit the little girl while the cranky Mennonite works. But neither expects their growing attraction. Now Willa must make a choice before Christmas—between the community she loves…and the man she doesn’t want to live without.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

When Aaron Raber moves into town with his five-year-old daughter, Maggie, Willa Koffmann couldn’t help but notice. Mostly because Aaron was parked behind her family store and about to work with the construction team on the expansion. Oh, and he was going to leave his daughter in the cold car while he worked. Willa certainly had something to say about that. 

This book is so good, there are some very surprising plot lines that are not your typical Amish read which make it intriguing. I was really drawn in by Aaron and his reluctance to be away from his daughter for even a minute. And Maggie was such a well-adjusted child despite her unconventional upbringing (sorry, can’t say – spoiler). Willa was not afraid to speak her mind and had a bold but soft heart.  

I connect with characters who question God or organized religion. It just feels authentic. So, of course, Aaron captured my attention. Willa’s impulsive nature was also endearing. And, of course, with that comes being stubborn and not always wanting to admit when she is wrong. Which got her in a jam. 

Overall, this was an absolute wonderful read. From Willa and Aaron’s first encounter, right up to the end, you’ll be hooked. This is a great quick read for when you want that holiday feeling any time of the year. 

Are you still reading Christmas stories?


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4 responses to “Book Review: Her Forbidden Christmas Match by Emma Miller”

  1. buffywnabe Avatar

    I don’t read a ton of holiday reads at other times of the year, unless it is for review. But you are right, I’m always adding ones to read come November. Great review, glad you enjoyed this one!

    https://lisalovesliterature.bookblog.io/2025/01/10/e-galley-review-chase-lovett-wants-me-by-helena-hunting/

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Carla Bruns Avatar

      Oh, if I do take a break for with holiday reading, it’s a very brief time. I usually start reading in September. I also like reading holiday books in July because people are always having Christmas in July things.

      Like

  2. yvonne473 Avatar

    This sounds really good. Great review.

    I often read Christmas themed books when it’s not Christmas time. Since I read many series books, sometimes a Christmas (or any holiday) themed book will come up at other times of the year. So it doesn’t bother me at all.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Carla Bruns Avatar

      That makes sense. I love series too.

      Liked by 1 person

Tell me something good….

Welcome to Carla’s Book Crush where I share my favorite clean, Christian reads. I review everything from Amish and historical romance to suspense, contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and the occasional devotional. If it has heart, hope, and a message that points back to Christ, it’s probably on my shelf. I also love chatting with authors and featuring interviews that give you a peek behind the pages. Whether you’re looking for a new release, a cozy weekend read, or just something uplifting and well-written, you’re in the right place. Clean stories. Encouraging faith. Books worth reading.

5 Stars – Overwhelmed me in a good way!
4 Stars – Strongly moved me
3 Stars – Entertaining, worth the read
2 Stars – Meh, take it or leave it
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