Loving Jenna (Wells Landing #9) by Amy Lillard

Loving Jenna (Wells Landing #9) Reviews

• 
  Connie Lynch

  When I began reading books by Amy Lillard she took me to a place called Wells Landing.....I fell in love with the place, the stories and the characters, Jenna and Buddy are no exception. This book has been written with much thought and care with the story of two youngies with special hearts and minds. Amy Lillard has created a wonderful and thoughtful story about a "special" couple. Jenna and Buddy are wonderful characters with a story that needed to be told. Thank you Amy for allowing me the privilege to read and visit Wells Landing again..(BTW I still want to go there!)
• 
  Linda

  So enjoyable to return to the fictional Amish community of Wells Landing, Oklahoma with this inspirational story of two “special” characters, Ivan “Buddy” Dale Miller and Jennifer “Jenna” Abigail Burkhart. Will Buddy and Jenna’s parents stop insisting they know what is best for them in their so-called efforts to protect them? Will they willingly let Buddy and Jenna make their own mistakes and find their own way? Is it an error to presume to know how someone else feels without giving them a chance to express themselves? A definite must-read to find the answers for Buddy and Jenna. Hope and faith are hallmarks of Author Amy Lillard’s Wells Landing series. Each is stand-alone with an occasional sprinkling of characters from a previous book. Don’t miss this one!
  I received a copy from the author. The opinions are my own.
  
• 
  Deanne Patterson

  Wow!!!!!!
  This is a really special book! Authors that write Amish books are now branching out and writing about many different subjects in their books now.
  This one has very vivid character portrayal that you can see yourself becoming friends with .
  Inspirational romance at it very best you'll fall in love with the tender romance in this story.
  The uniqueness in this book will keep you reading to uncover all the layers of the story. Just when you think it can't get any better the conclusion will melt your heart!
  
  Pub Date: 25 Feb 2020
  I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you
  All opinions expressed are my own.
  
  
  
  
• 
  Marilyn

  I love the cover for Loving Jenna. Then to find a sweet and heart touching story inside was a treasure. I was enthralled reading Jenna's and Buddy's story. Lillard penned a beautiful story as we watched them blossom with their lives even though they faced challenges, being called “simple” or “special” and others saying they couldn't do something. Their connection when they first met brought them a lot of determination, fortitude and admiration for one another despite the negative remarks. Jenna and Buddy took a leap when they both wanted jobs to prove their independence. Buddy’s love for animals and Jenna’s gentleness and soothing way with babies brought wonderful results for Titus and Abbie. Will they be able to survive the storm they faced during a conversation?
  
  Fans of The Wells Landing Series by Amy Lillard will not want to miss this book which can be read as a standalone, too. I appreciate how Lillard penned this story from the heroine and hero perspective. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All thought are my own for this wonderful story.
• 
  Brittany

  It was a joy to return to the town of Wells Landing! If you have read other books in the series, you will recognize various characters throughout this story. And if you have read Marrying Jonah, you will definitely know the main character, Buddy, from that novel. However, this book can easily be read as a stand alone novel if you are jumping in mid-series.
  
  I think that it must not be an easy thing to write a love story from the viewpoints of two main characters who have special mental challenges, capturing the authenticity of their feelings while and also showing their frustration with certain limitations that are placed on them. However, the author reached inside both Jenna and Buddy and did a very good job of telling this sweet love story from both of their points of view. She didn’t shy away from various challenges that Buddy and Jenna faced and even a couple of misunderstandings that arose between them, while providing a satisfying love story for the reader.
  
  I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
  
  You can read this review on my blog:
  
  https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
• 
  Annette

  This book touches a special place in all parents and grandparents’ hearts. Amy Lillard has written a new series, set in our beloved tractor-driving Amish community of Wells Landing, Oklahoma. Old friends from past novels appear in the background, which is always a huge enjoyment for me because I wonder how my ‘friends’ are doing.
  
  “Loving Jenna” strives to show both sides of love for those with disabilities who want to protect their loved ones and the desire of those ‘special’ souls to live life on their terms. Buddy Miller and Jenna Burkhart feel that God has led them to be together. However, their parents are extremely overprotective and fear for their children. This roadblock sets off a series of events in all their lives.
  I recommend you read the last novel from Amy Lillard and be prepared to root for Buddy and Jenna, as they realize they’re stronger than anyone else realizes, especially as a team. Everyone needs that someone special that believes in them. This novel reminded me of the fact everyone is loved by Him.
  
  All opinions in this review are solely mine and were not compensated.
  
• 
  romancejunkie

  cute and touching
• 
  Pamela Pavkov

  Loving Jenna is such a sweet love story written by Amy Lillard in her The Wells Landing series. I was drawn to this story from the first page. After getting to know Buddy through the other books I couldn't wait to see what life held in store for him. Buddy is considered special needs as he was born with Downs Syndrome. Buddy has never let his condition to stop home from what he thinks is right. His character is so loveable.
  
  Jenna is also considered special needs after a drowning accident when she was twelve years old. Jenna's mamm is unwavering in her beliefs that Jenna will never marry and stops at nothing to keep her away from all activities that could help her. Jenna, however, has a mind of her own and takes action to change her life. When she meets Buddy everything changes. The two hit it off right away and decide they are going to be friends regardless of both of their mamm's interference. The things that both of them do to prove their worth is unbelievable and sweet. However when things start looking up for them it all comes crashing down. Their journey is filled with friendship, faith, love, and determination. Their story is definitely an amazing one.
  
  I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. All statements are my own.
  
  Congratulations to Amy Lillard for writing such an inspiring story for her readers enjoyment.
• 
  Maureen Timerman

  I loved this book, and found myself rooting for these young adults, yes, they have disabilities, but they are trying to break the chains of their limitations.
  What a beautiful inspiring story the author gives us, and found myself walking in both the mom’s and their children’s shoes.
  I do know that a child with “special” needs are so wanted, loved and treasured, especially in their Amish community, but these young adults object to the “special” term. Love how these moms are ready to do battle to keep their offspring safe, but when do the kid gloves come off? Probably never, but we get to see how these people deal with their children spreading their wings.
  I love that old friends reappear in this stand-alone read, and we are back in Wells Landing Oklahoma, and our tractor driving Amish
  
  I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
  
• 
  Virginia Winfield

  This was one of my favorite stories by Amy Lillard. I loved how she wrote about a young man with Down Syndrome and a young girl who had a brain injury and almost died. This shows how these characters interacted with their friends and their families. I laughed and cried. I really liked Jenna and Buddy but didn’t always care for either of their mothers. The mothers had to learn that even though Jenna and Buddy had some handicaps they were still becoming adults. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
• 
  Kristina

  Loving Jenna by Amy Lillard is a very special Amish novel. It is the eighth novel in A Well’s Landing series, and it can be read as a standalone. Jenna Burkhart along with her mother and grandmother have moved to Well’s Landing, Oklahoma. A swimming accident when she was a child left her with brain damage. She is tired of people calling her “special” and being told what she cannot do by her mother. Jenna wants the same things as other young Amish women (a husband, a home, and a family), but her mother tells her that it is not possible. Then Jenna meets Buddy Miller who has Down’s syndrome. Buddy has had similar experiences to Jenna with people not expecting him to hold down a job, live on his own or marry. Jenna and Buddy fall in love, but they are met with opposition. The pair set out to prove they can be self-sufficient so they can marry. Will they succeed in the face of their family’s disapproval? Will their fears and doubts get the best of Jenna and Buddy? Loving Jenna is a charming Amish story. It is unlike any other Amish book that I have ever read. I like that authors of Amish fiction are branching out into different subjects (very refreshing). Loving Jenna is well-written with developed characters. The author provided expressive depictions of Well’s Landing and the Amish who live there. I think it is funny that they drive tractors to get around except on Sunday’s when they can only use horse and buggy. Jenna and Buddy are truly special people. I enjoyed watching their romance progress. They were trying so hard despite discouragement from their parents. You will find it hard to put down Loving Jenna once you begin reading. Loving Jenna is a touching and unique tale with a poignant conclusion.
• 
  Jasmine

  Sometimes love takes a little persistence...
  
  If there's one thing that you can count on when picking up an Amy Lillard novel it's that she will always surprise you. She takes on those tough family issues that are universal to Amish, Englisher, and beyond. Loving Jenna is definitely one of those.
  
  Some reviews are hard to write. Not because the book was bad, but because the topics in the story are either difficult or require some sensitivity. If, like me, you are not in the know on the current PC terms and phrases it can be a virtual minefield. You don't want to be hurtful to anyone but you aren't exactly sure how not to.
  
  While I strongly sympathized with Jenna and Buddy, I also fully understood their parents' concerns and desire to protect them. Loving Jenna is very thought provoking as two young adults with disabilities navigate the perils of love and responsibility, while their parents struggle with letting them step into the lives they wish to lead.
  
  Amy Lillard has penned another great story, told with sensitivity and kindness, that is sure to entertain as well as make you think. Loving Jenna is a sweet story, different than most Amish romances as all of Amy Lillard's books are, and it's a great addition to her Wells Landing series. Oh, and you can't help falling in love with a little character named PJ...I sure did...
  
  (I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
  
• 
  Ida Davis

  Amy Lillard you did it again. the book will make you cry and laugh i love Buddy and Jenna. Their parents didnt want them together at first . but when they saw how happy they was they changed their mind. Jenna and Buddy got in an argument and Jenna went back home. and her mother didn't like the way Jenna was acting around the house so Jenna's mama went back to the Lambert's farm to see if Jenna can get her job back and Jenna went back to the Lambert's farm to live and take care of the babies. Buddy was still living there to help Titus with the camels. Buddy and Jenna went for a walk and they want to friends and more then friends. that is when Buddy couldn't sleep cause of Jenna. He love her and he want her to be his wife and he ran out the barn and Jenna had just gotten thru with the babies with she look out the window and saw Buddy and PJ [the fur baby] toward the house where the Grandparents lived but they stayed with their daughter and son in law. he told her he love her and want her to be his wife and at first she said no but when she saw Titus and his wife on the porch she told Buddy yes and they got married. i would recommend this book . this book is book 9 in the series if you haven't read any of Amy Lillard the series of A Wells Landing Series.
• 
  Jeanie

  Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD'S purpose that prevails.
  
  After a terrible swimming accident that almost killed Jenna, she has been told that her brain is weak. She is not like other Amish girls. With a recent move to a new community with her mother and grandmother, Jenna's family is looking for a fresh start with other another Amish community. It is love at first sight for Buddy when he see's Jenna at church. She looks like an Angel. Buddy has Down Syndrome and when he learns that Jenna has learning disabilities as well, he wants to be her friend.
  
  Their meeting together is unfiltered and sweet. However, both of their parents see only trouble if a friendship develops. Their parents have always protected their children and now that they are young adults, Jenna and Buddy want a relationship with each other. Their friendship develops into love. A love that is persistent as the parents do not make it easy for them to know each other.
  
  It is a sweet love story that shows any love is persistent and love never gives up. I loved it.
  
  A Special Thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
• 
  Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read

  This is one of the sweetest Amish romances I’ve ever read. This story is told from the first-person viewpoints of Jenna and Buddy, Jenna almost drowned when she was little girl, suffered some mild brain damage, and now her mother refers to her thought processes as “simple”. Buddy was born with Down’s Syndrome. Both Jenna and Buddy are loved, cherished, and protected by their families. But although Buddy and Jenna may not think the same way a “normal” person does, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t capable of living the full life that God has for them. Now they have to convince their families that not only are they capable of living that life, they want to live it together as a married couple.
  
  I adored Jenna from the beginning of this book. She realizes that she’s different from others, and has never thought that she would have a boyfriend or get married. But after she meets Buddy, she begins to believe that God may have a wonderful plan in store for them. Jenna is a truly loving and caring person, and Buddy deeply wants to be the one taking care of Jenna. There were scenes between them that were just too sweet for words. I loved the way the Amish community was portrayed as to the love and care they extended to Jenna and Buddy, and they way they rallied around them to help them.
  
  This book highlights the value that God places on each individual. Amy Lillard has given us a beautiful couple in this book, and I’m hoping we’ll see more of them as this series continues.
  
  I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
• 
  Janice Sisemore

  Loving Jenna
  
  Loving Jenna and Buddy, I love their story. Jenna suffered a head injury in a swimming accident. After that she is considered “special” by her family. She is protected by her mother.
  
  Buddy has Down syndrome and is considered “special “ by his family. Will Buddy and Jenna get together?
  
  In Loving Jenna, Buddy meets her and they become good friends. Their family are trying to keep them apart. I felt bad for Jenna and Buddy at times. Especially felt bad for Jenna, she was growing up but her mother was scared. I could see her mother point of view also.
  
  I loved how Buddy and Jenna found jobs for they could earn their own living and prove themselves. Everyone can find love no matter who you are.
  
  I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
• 
  Lorraine

  She had died…. drowned in a swimming accident when she was twelve. Thankfully someone in the group she was with knew CPR. The accident did affect her brain though and left her with a “weak brain” as her mother told her all the time.
  
  He was born with Down’s Syndrome. He didn’t look like anyone else and he was “slow”.
  
  Lillard takes us back to Wells Landing and into the lives of two special young people. Jenna Gail Burkhart and “Buddy” Ivan Dale Miller. Jenna, her mother, and her grandmother had moved to Wells Landing from Kansas. Buddy lived there all his life with his parents and siblings.
  
  Jenna and Buddy’s mothers didn’t allow either of them to do things “normal” young people did. They were always told they were “special” and couldn’t do this or that. They each kept their children close.
  
  Close, that is, until Jenna and Buddy met each other at church one Sunday. From then on things were different around the Burkhart and Miller homes. Unlike the obedient Amish children that we always read about, they questioned their parents. Why can’t I? I don’t want to. I’m almost twenty-one, I should be able to.
  
  Were Jenna and Buddy able to prove to their parents that they weren’t “special”? That just because it took them a little longer to “get” things didn’t make them simple or weak brained? That they could live happy and productive lives?
  
  Read Jenna and Buddy’s love story. It’s a change from the norm in this genre and I absolutely loved it! I can’t remember reading another Amish fiction story of someone with “special” needs. Thank you Amy for a wonderful read!
  
• 
  Melissa Henderson

  One of the sweetest love stories I have read. Love can be found in different situations. Judgement and worry from family and friends could hurt this new love between two special people. Through determination, faith, love and trust, Jenna and Buddy face obstacles and learn how to overcome. I enjoyed this story very much. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
• 
  Rhonda

  5 Stars: 5/5 star rating
  Jenna and Buddy just want to be treated with respect. But everyone sees what they can't do, not what they can do. Their families don't want to let them grow up, even though they are both grown adults with many talents. Buddy has Downs Syndrome and Jenna suffered brain trauma when she died in a drowning and was revived. Jenna and Buddy find each other and fall in love, but their families don't want them together and do everything to stop it.
  This book handles special needs and the thoughts and emotions of those with special needs in a sensitive, respectful manner. I fell in love with Jenna and Buddy and was rooting for them from the very moment they met! Readers will enjoy following their love story and seeing how the story is resolved. Will they work things out or will their family succeed in keeping them apart and not allowing them to live independently?
  I received a digital ARC of this book from netgalley and Zebra Publishing. All opinions expressed are my own.
• 
  Elizabeth

  Loving Jenna ( Wells Landing #8 )
  By: Amy Lillard
  Loving Jenna is book eight in the series Wells Landing. This is Jenna and Buddy’s story. A special young couple with big hearts. I fell in love with this story and the characters, both are well written and well developed. This story touched my heart. I caught myself with tears in my eyes several times. The author drew me in at the start and i did not want to put it down. I was not disappointed. A beautiful love story that you will not forget.
  I was given a complimentary copy of this book . All opinions are my own.
• 
  Lori

  Love is all around. Yes indeed it is. God's love for each and every one of us. No matter how or what happened to us in life.
  I think for starters Charlotte was way too hard on Jenna. I felt that she was extremely overprotective and I'm feeling like calling Charlotte all kinds of names. Gertie too lol
  Yes as I read I started to understand Charlotte but still her being too hard on Jenna was over rated. I didn't like how she kept telling Jenna that she was special.
  Thank goodness for Nadine. She's my heroin. I love how she tells Charlotte to lay off Jenna. "She has enough trouble without you staying on her all the time."
  ( This would make a great meme).
  Another one I didn't like was when Buddy's dad kept saying you understand? I think it's because of the way people say it like we're dumb or something. People use that word with me all the time. I have to remind them not to say that word.
  Jenna is a sweetheart. I really loved her. I applauded her because the more her mother said no the more she dug her heals in. Kind of like me when I was growing up.
  I liked Buddy well enough but I loved sweet Jenna more.
  God's plan. I think I like that very much.
  If God wants two people like Buddy and Jenna to be together then who's to say they can't? Oh we can try and stop it but if it's meant to be then no one should interfere.
  Buddy and Jenna are human too. They have a right to be happy just like anyone else.
  I think that's why I didn't like the story. Gertie and Charlotte interfered way too much like Nadine said. And that's why I loved and cheered for Nadine.
  I still strongly recommend this book because Lillard is a magnificent storyteller. The story is realistic in some ways and others no quite so.
  I was NOT required to write a review. No compensation was received and all opinions are my own.
• 
  Amy

  So not only is this book set in my favorite corner of the fiction world it also touches on topics near and dear to my heart. INCLUSION and REPRESENTATION. There are not a lot of stories that represent people of the disabilities community. People like my children.
  
  This book shows that people with disabilities want what everyone else wants. A normal life. The main characters, Jenna and Buddy, don't want to be seen as "special". They want to work, fall in love, and get married. But just like real life, things don't always run smoothly. Jenna and Buddy's mamms are having a hard time letting go.
  
  Overall this book touched a really special place in my heart. Amy Lillard really did an excellent job with the characters and representing and including characters with disabilities. It was so awesome to see them take the main stage as well. I really hope she writes more about Jenna and Buddy.
  
  
  
  Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
• 
  Carrie Tripp

  My Thoughts On Loving Jenna by Amy Lillard
  Suggested Beverage Pairing: Black Coffee or a Cold Pepsi
  Characterization
  Jenna. Well, the book is about loving her, so we best start with her first. Twenty-year-old Jenna Burkhart is special. As a young girl she had a near drowning. Actually, she did drown, but they brought her back. Jenna was restored to life, but now her life was special. Jenna’s mamm and mammi moved her to Wells Landing Amish community to start over. Jenna’s mamm has been overbearingly protective since Jenna’s accident. Jenna is not allowed to participate in age appropriate activities because she is “too young” in her brain. By all accounts and observations, Jenna actually is developmentally on target for her age. It may take her a little longer to do something, but she can fully complete normal daily tasks.
  
  Buddy, Ivan Dale Miller, is the absolute most endearing hero I’ve come across in a while. Buddy has Down syndrome. When he first sees Jenna, he’s sure he’s seen an angel. All of the sudden, Buddy wants to be an Amish man rather than the child he’s still treated as. Buddy’s dialogue throughout the novel was so realistic. He is open and honest. He’s funny. He loves big and he gets good and angry. Buddy has a deep faith, however, and understands perseverance.
  
  “True love is persistent,” he said.
  
  The Plot
  Buddy and Jenna both have parents prepared to do whatever it takes to keep them apart and both living at home for all of their lives. That’s most definitely not what Buddy and Jenna want after the meet each other. The two are sure that they are in love and can grow up and settle down as normal Amish people do.
  
  Throughout the book the mothers attempt to thwart all Buddy and Jenna’s plans, but the two of them keep coming up with ways to see each other. Other characters in the community seem to come along to help Buddy and Jenna experience romance and have opportunities to contribute to the Amish community.
  
  When Jenna gets mad at Buddy for not asking her to marry him, she moves back home to her mamm. A heartbroken Jenna is what finally gets through to her mamm, though, and mamm decides to get Jenna and Buddy back together.
  
  This sweet, sweet story of two special needs Amish people is more than a love story. Loving Jenna is a story of hope, growth, faith, and a powerful example of how a community can truly support every member.
  
  I laughed out loud several times in this book. Five stars to Amy Lillard and Loving Jenna.
  
  #LovingJenna #NetGalley
• 
  Deana Dick

  The author has captured a sweet story that focuses on two people considered “different.” I loved the way the characters are introduced and how gentle their story is told. The topic of Down Syndrome is one that few books are written about. It is easy to fall in love with Jenna and Buddy. Their connection is pure and filled with joy. Being accepted has always been both of their desires and finding each other really boosts their confidence. Jenna is considered to be “simple” since her accident. Both mothers seemed overprotective and Jenna and Buddy set out to prove their independence.
  
  I didn’t care for Jenna’s mother at all. She never let Jenna do anything and continuously reminded her that she was “special.” Oh how my heart broke for Jenna. Her mother was a bit abrupt with Buddy and her attitude towards his mother made me upset. I began to wonder if maybe Jenna’s mother was angry at God and didn’t know how to get past it. I loved when Jenna and Buddy ran into each other at the bakery. You could feel how excited they were to see each other. When I read that Buddy’s favorite cake was chocolate cake with peppermint frosting I smiled. My grandmother use to make that for my birthday every year. Oh how I loved that cake and how special it made me feel.
  
  I loved getting to read about Jenna and Buddy as their relationship grew. Two people who saw only love with no handicaps at all will warm your heart in this well written story. The author does a great job of showing us how we should not judge others and that family is important. I can’t help but think of how pure God’s love is and that is represented in this story by Jenna and Buddy. It was interesting to see if the families would accept a relationship that they were against. The bond between Jenna and her mother will be tested and trust will play a big part in teaching parents to let go and give their children to God. This story has become my favorite from the author with emotions that grab your heart as you witness unconditional love.
  
  I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
• 
  Faith

  Loving Jenna. *****
  
  This is the touching story of two very special children of God. They are loved and cherished by their families to the extent they are being stifled and not allowed the life God had chosen for them.
  
  The author shows us how we, in our well meaning ways do this. We talk about them in front of them thinking “They will not understand what I am saying” and they do hear and understand.
  
  Then we talk to friends and family in whispers so they cannot hear, but they not only hear you, they hear what others are saying as well. The gossips and rumors that are prevalent in small towns, conclaves and gatherings.
  
  Both Buddy and Jenna are special and they are different but look closely at any child and they too are as different and are as special to someone(s) or everyone. We are as God created us to be and we are as special to Him as we are to family, friends and spouses.
  
  Both Buddy and Jenna rise above all of this to forge a relationship that each secretly hopes ends in marriage. I loved the “first date” with the parking of the tractor, and the sharing of the meal. It remind d me of my husband and how we also shared our food when eating out and how he assisted me in getting in and out of small, tight parking spaces. Neither of us is as special as these two are.
  
  I acknowledge the author for choosing this subject to write about. It opened my eyes to seeing and hearing in a different way. I feel blessed to witness the growing attraction and then, the love between Jenna and Buddy.
  
  I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own
• 
  Dali Castillo

  Loved It!
  
  Jenna - She remembers some parts of her life before the accident, when all was “normal.” But since the accident, her new normal is being referred to as “simple” or “special.” It would probably be a little easier to handle if people would stop looking at her and treating her as if they feel sorry for her. All Jenna wants is a life of her own, which seems impossible until she meets Buddy.
  
  Buddy - Because he was born with Down Syndrome, Buddy’s normal has always been that he is “special/simple.” Yet people have always treated him kindly and made him feel accepted. However, when Buddy lays eyes on a blue eyed angel, he decides all the more that he wants a life of his own.
  
  I was drawn in by how the author tells the story from Jenna and Buddy’s perspectives. It took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. At times it made laugh, and other times it made me sad, upset and even frustrated with how the actions of others affected Jenna and Buddy. The author’s way of unfolding how their friendship and relationship began and developed was so special, tender and heartfelt. Even when their families couldn’t see beyond their “uniqueness” to allow their relationship to grow, and even when adversities and challenges came their way, Jenna and Buddy remained steadfast and never gave up. They were truly inspirational.
  
  Amy Lillard has outdone herself with Buddy and Jenna’s story. The way she tells the story of these two “special” characters is simply flawless and I absolutely loved it!
  
  *****I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions and are strictly my own.*****
  
• 
  Tina

  When I asked to read Loving Jenna by Amy Lillard, I thought it was an extension of her Pontotoc Amish Series. It wasn't until I started reading that I realized it was part of her Wells Landing Series, which I have not read yet. However, I fully enjoyed meeting the people of Wells Landing! And, I especially enjoyed meeting Buddy and Jenna and reading their story. I think I may have to look at more of these stories and get to know the people even more! But, about this story....When Jenna was younger she was in an accident; she drowned and was actually dead until she was brought back. However, her brain was affected and she has a harder time learning things than others do. Buddy was born with Down Syndrome and he too is slower than those around him. When the two of them meet, all they want is the opportunity to spend time together and get to know each other. However, their families are against it, saying that they are not ready, nor will they ever be ready, to make that kind of decision or take that step. What ensues is the two of them fighting for each other with persistence, heart, and love. I laughed many times reading this book. It was a lot of fun, but it also has a great story line. Love, especially love ordained by God, is stronger than we can imagine. Go get it and see for yourself!
  I received a copy of this story from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review.
  All opinions are my own.