July brought a bit of everything—some suspense, some small-town charm, and plenty of Amish romance (my favorite). I read a pretty average amount for me, and what I did read gave me a mix of comfort, surprise, and a few heart squeezes along the way. Some stories made me laugh, others brought me to tears, and one goose completely stole the show. Ready to see which books made an impression? Let’s take a look.

Here’s a quick peek at what I read, what I loved, and what’s coming next.

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July Reads

The Fire Chief’s Surprise by Chris Maday Schmidt
This sweet small-town romance centers around a single dad, a surprise guardianship clause, and a kindhearted baker determined to help. While I read it during a hard time in my life and didn’t connect with it as deeply as I might have, I know it’s a book worth revisiting when my emotions are in a better place—it’s heartfelt and full of meaningful themes. Full review here.

The Amish Baby Scandal by Virginia Wise
Emma is strong, sincere, and beautifully written—a young woman facing judgment while walking in grace. This story gave me the emotional lift I needed, with a slow-burn romance, tender friendships, and even an unforgettable goose named Belinda. It’s a lovely reminder that God’s love isn’t conditional. Full review here.

A Family on His Doorstep by Alena Auguste
This one broke from typical romance formulas in a refreshing way, focusing more on internal growth than external conflict. Rebecca’s quiet strength and Walker’s compassion made this story feel honest and steady. I appreciated that it didn’t center on shame or repentance, just two people navigating life with care and grace. Full review here.

Shadowed Witness by Angela Carlisle
This suspense novel surprised me—in the best way. I thought I had it figured out, but I stayed up past midnight finishing because the twists just kept coming. Allye and Eric were so real, leaning on faith and each other as they faced danger, doubt, and healing; it’s one of the best romantic suspense’s I’ve read in a while. Full review here.

An Amish Baby in Her Arms by Patricia Johns
This book hit me deeply—sweet, emotional, and full of spiritual insight. Miriam and Zaac’s story of was full of grief, faith, and finding purpose. A tender and honest read that shows how we can wrestle with God without losing faith. Full review coming soon. Full review here.

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele
I felt everything while reading this book—hope, joy, laughter, and even a few tears. Leah and Joe’s friendship-turned-romance was touching, especially as they both wrestled with the roles they believed they were allowed to play in life. It was exactly the story I needed at the time: emotionally rich, spiritually grounded, and full of heart. Full review here.

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July Highlights

Favorite Book: Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele
Favorite Character: Belinda the Goose – Yeah, I know that’s not what you were expecting. What can I say?
Most heartwarming: The Amish Baby Scandal by Virginia Wise
Most intense: Shadowed Witness by Angela Carlisle. I didn’t read enough suspense but this one may have won out even if I had slipped another in.
Most faith filled: An Amish Baby in Her Arms by Patricia Johns
Quickest read: The Fire Chief’s Surprise by Chris Maday Schmidt

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Reading Stats

• Books read: 6
• Formats: 4 paperbacks, 2 ebooks
• Genres: Amish romance, contemporary Christian romance, romantic suspense
• Average star rating: 3.92
• Pages read: 1,744

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Reading Reflections

July was my first month without Jeffrey. I’m an emotional reader but it’s hard for fiction to grab emotions when real life has me ugly crying. It may have kept me from feeling the feels I would normally have when reading. Even from some favorite authors that know how to tug at my heartstrings. Or, could it be that now that I’ve been reading and rating books for almost a year that my expectations are higher? I guess we’ll never know for sure.

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August TBR

One of my main focuses is getting my NetGalley list cleaned up. Once that’s done, I’m going to approach NetGalley in a different way. I’ll be requesting books that I’m also getting from book tours (to keep my percentage up) and from favorite (and mostly likely Amish) authors that I might not be able to get otherwise. Here’s what I’m hoping to read this month:

• An Amish Widow’s Promise by by Winnie Griggs (NetGalley)
• The Marriage Pact by Kathleen Fuller (NetGalley)
• Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Grey (NetGalley)
• Kissing the Texas Ranger by Cari Lynn Webb (book tour)
• The Pretender by Wanda E. Brunstetter (NetGalley & book tour – third in a an incredibly good series)
• A Scheming in Parliament by Erica Vetsch (book tour)

Other hopefuls if I increase my reading speed:

• Last Light over Galveston by Jennifer L. Wright (book tour – not required to read)
• Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills (book tour – not required to read)

A little of my normal mix in the above – romantic suspense (and Amish – bonus!!), Amish romance, contemporary romance, and historical romance. But, yes, always the romance.

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What was your favorite July read? What are your August plans?
Let me know in the comments!