“Don’t you think that God has your back? Don’t you think God is big enough to hold on to your worries for you?”

Author Shelley Shepard Gray writes to show us the difficulty when the place we consider a refuge (home in a small town Amish settlement) becomes the most dangerous place of all.

Twenty-three-year-old Stephanie Miller witnesses a murder and is saved by a quick-thinking passerby. Bev Anderson, a social worker, understands the gravity of the situation and the importance of grabbing Stephanie, a complete stranger, and driving her to safety. Bev knows that the killer or his handler won’t give up searching for Stephanie, the only eyewitness, until she’s been silenced.

What would you do if you could never go home again? Or at least while a killer is on the loose.

Stripped of everything she identifies with, “dressed like an Englisher”, far from family and running scared, she’s sent to Bev’s brother for safe-keeping. We need more Hardys in this world!

I appreciated Gray’s focus on the lengths we’ll go to feel ‘belonging’, the importance of being accepted for who you are, the necessity of caring for yourself before reaching out to help others, and the weight of risk and our choices.

Two things I’ll remember:
1. Gratitude and happiness didn’t always walk hand in hand
2. Make a decision to be different from who you were the moment before.

I love that Stephanie finds relaxation in The Love Boat reruns - me, too!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

This isn't your typical Amish fiction story.

This book is a page turning, edge of your seat wanting to find out what is going to happen next.

From witnessing a murder, to being on the run to hiding to keep away from a deadly gang and adjusting to living a different way there is lots to keep you interested.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and NetGalley. The review expressed here is my honest opinion.

What a story! You have grit, suspense, and romance.

Stephanie, an Amish girl, witnesses a horrific murder while stopping at a store to buy her monthly treats. Another witness, Beverly, whisks her away from the scene. Beverly, a local social worker, knows the killing is gang related. Fearing for Stephanie’s life she sends her to her brother, Hardy, in Kentucky. Can Hardy protect Stephanie?

I liked the multi person view points. You see the situation from the gang initiate, Stephanie, and Hardy. Your heart goes out to all as life is never “simple” no matter if you’re Amish or English.

I received a complimentary copy from the author with no requirement to review in a positive manner. The above review is my own words.

I loved this story filled with romance and suspense. I loved Stephanie, Hardy, Bev and Carter. I enjoyed all the action as Stephanie and Hardy try to stay alive. I could not put this book down. I laughed and I cried. I received a copy of the book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Unshaken is a quick Amish Suspense story that I read in one wonderful afternoon as I recuperated from a long vacation. Stephanie is a young Amish woman who is at the wrong place at the wrong time! Luckily for her, Beverly, a social worker and also witness to the crime that Stephanie sees, has a strong, former military man for brother and calls him to help hide Stephanie on the large ranch he works on in Kentucky. It's a whirlwind for Stephanie as she navigates changing into English clothes and takes a bus out of Ohio to find Hardy who will be there to help her. I found this to be fast-paced and I thoroughly enjoyed this suspenseful love story between not only Stephanie and Hardy but Beverly and Hardy's friend/boss Carter as well.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 3 June 2025

Unshaken is about an Amish girl Stephanie who happens to be at the wrong place and the wrong time and witnesses a gang related incident. Thankfully she is rescued by an English woman Beverly who contacts her brother Hardy and his boss Carter to help protect them.

I liked reading about the different friendship dynamics between Carter, Beverly, Hardy and Stephanie; and seeing Stephanie's character evolve as she struggles with her Amish identity. I liked reading more about Beverly's social work and her determination to help her boys, especially from gangs. It was sad to read about Timothy and the choices that he made impacting his future.

This story had great characters, storyline and setting. I really loved this story and highly recommend it and series- I can't wait to read more! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This has everything I want in a book- an Amish story AND a page turning thriller! I wish I could give this beautiful book more stars. It is absolutely a Five Star Gold book!
Stephanie Miller lives a sheltered life. She goes to a dollar store and witnesses a murder. She’s quickly thrust into a high energy escape with a stranger.
I was on the seat of my chair waiting to see how the story would play out. Loved it! Many thanks to the author and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#Unshaken #ShelleyShepardGray #Revell #AmishFiction #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BooksSetInAmishCountry #AmishThriller

I am a huge fan of Amish romances and Shelley Shepard Gray is one of my go to authors for these kinds of reads. UNSHAKEN was one such romance with an edge of suspense and danger.

My heart when out to Stephanie for the unfortunate circumstances she found herself in. Her home life was tragic and then she became the target of a gang after witnessing a murder. Enter her protector, Hardy. I love a big, gruff, alpha male and Hardy did not disappoint. His protective instincts made sure to care for the Amish woman all while resisting his feelings for her. A relationship between them was improbable but not impossible.

I read this in one sitting and have zero regrets. I’m giving UNSHAKEN the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Gray captured my attention right away. I felt for Stephanie who is scared and on the run after witnessing a murder. Hardy is a sweet guy, but he is protective of Stephanie. Hardy’s sister asked him to keep Stephanie safe, and he takes this task seriously. I also liked Hardy’s sister, Bev and his boss, Carter. The author’s picturesque descriptions allowed me to envision the setting. I enjoyed the suspense and action which had me quickly turning the pages to see what would happen next. I like the thread of faith that was stitched through the story. I loved the epilogue which nicely wrapped up the story. I closed the book with a happy sigh and a satisfied smile on my face. Unshaken has a well-crafted plot that blends suspense, romance, and faith along with great characters into one gripping tale.

"...doing what everyone expects doesn't feel as good as one might think. But doing what your heart wants? Well, that fills you up and makes all the other garbage in life seem like it don't mean a thing" (location 3533). There are several characters who have an internal struggle trying to belong and fit in and be accepted. Often it has bad results. Trying to figure out what to do next really proves who they are.

I felt for Stephanie. She was in a terrible position. It was nice seeing her blossom as she experienced a little freedom. Hardy was special too. He instinctively wants to protect Stephanie and goes to great lengths to do so. I wish there had been a little more about Bev and Carter. I felt they could have had their own book.

This is an Amish book but it didn't really talk too much about being Amish. It took place mainly in an "Englisher" environment and Stephanie adapted quickly and well.

I enjoyed this book. It deals a little with gangs and foster care. It makes me glad I grew up where and how I did. Some kids don't have a lot to rely on. I'm blessed. Thank you to Revell for providing me with an e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Gray is riveting, suspenseful read from the get-go! When Bev, a Social Worker, shows up at the local dollar store, she is shocked to see one of her former Clients, Timothy, shoot a man and injure an Amish Woman as part of a gang initiation. Bev does the only thing she knows to do: send the Amish Woman to the safest place she knows—the Ranch where Bev’s brother Hardy works. Stephanie, the Amish Woman rescued by Bev, is rattled by just more than being shot at and having to go into hiding. Having lost her Parents at 16, Stephanie has lived with her Aunt and Uncle helping them with their household and kids. While grateful for a place to live, Stephanie knows that she is not really wanted by her Aunt and Uncle by the way they treat her. Meanwhile, Hardy is more than willing to help Stephanie and Bev by taking Stephanie to the Ranch where he works for his Army Buddy, Carter, and runs Carter’s Ranch. As Hardy protects Stephanie, they form at tight bond. When the Gang finds Stephanie at Carter’s Ranch, Carter and Bev travel to the Ranch to help Hardy protect Stephanie. On the way to the Ranch, Carter and Bev form a bond themselves. When they all unite at the Ranch for Stephanie’s behalf Hardy, Stephanie, Carter, and Bev form an unbreakable bond and learns lessons about God and themselves that will last a lifetime.

Shelley Shepard Gray’s Unshaken was full-speed ahead and captured me from the get-go! I love how Unshaken had multiple storylines going on within the book, looking at it from the perspectives of multiple characters. I like meeting Stephanie, Bev, Hardy, and Carter. I was shocked that Bev put Stephanie directly into hiding without having Stephanie talk to police after the incident, but understand that it was needed for the plot. I thought Stephanie was a sweet. I felt for what Stephanie went through. I admired Stephanie’s soul-searching through the book and the things she learned about herself and God because of it. I appreciated Hardy’s tenderness and protectiveness towards Stephanie. Everyone needs a friend like Hardy and everyone needs a friend like Carter. I love that Carter was very generous with his time and resources to help those in need, not afraid of the cost or what he needed to do to help. I loved the theme of being unshaken and being dependent on God through the unknown that I saw through the book. I also thought that Carter and Bev were perfect for one another and that Hardy and Stephanie were perfect for one each other as well. I love the high-paced escape that Unshaken gave me and how it reminded me to remain unshaken in my Faith and dependent on God no matter what may come! I highly recommend Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Gray!

Have you read Unshaken? What did you think of the book?

Thank you to Jean for giving me a copy of Unshaken via NetGalley and the Publisher to review, letting me be on Shelley’s Street Team, and for giving me the information I needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My Review is also Amazon, Goodreads, and my blog Leslie's Library Escape.

What does one do when your whole world is turned upside down? Stephanie Miller, unfortunately, ends up at the wrong place at the wrong time. Out for her once a month shopping trip, Stephanie witnesses a murder. Beverly whisks her away from the scene. She realizes she must protect Stephanie at all costs from the gang. With help from her brother Hardy, they hide this shy Amish girl amongst their Engish friends. Will they be able to keep her alive?

This is truly a suspenseful cozy romance which keeps the reader turning the pages. I really enjoyed the pace of the story. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

Unspoken is a Christian, Romantic Suspense that starts with Stephanie Miller, a young Amish woman, witnessing a murder. Stephanie is terrified, but she has help running from the scene to a safe place.

As the story unfolds, there are two budding romances that begin, along with plenty of twists to keep your interest.

Pick up this Shelley Shepard Gray book, I think you'll enjoy the read!

Cinderella but she’s Amish!! Honestly I had a good time with this book. It’s not a new favorite for me, but I enjoyed it all the same. Also, forced proximity by way of witness protection?! Yes yes and yes. This is my first book from Shelley Shepherd Gray (though I’ve heard her name many times), and I’ll be sure it’s not the last!

Will you let your past define your future? Stephanie Miller hadn’t had the easiest life after her parents were killed in a accident. As the only child, she was sent to a distant family members home to live as a maid not as a loving family member. Stephanie didn’t get to leave the property but about once a month. She had went to do her monthly shopping visit to not only do a little shopping but to have a little bit of relaxation from all the chores. Little did she know what she soon would witness would change her life forever.
While shuffling her packages to get ready to take her walk back to her house, she looked up to see 2 men fighting. She couldn’t believe her eyes when she seen one man fall. Her eyes locked with the killer. Thankfully, Beverly while in her car had witness the scene and come to Stephanie’s rescue. Quickly, Beverly knows she must get Stephanie to her brother Hardy’s home which was hours away. Change her clothes and location, she has to be safe..right??
This is a fast pace story and page turner! It is a love story and it is so nice to see Stephanie not allow her past to change her. She finally finds love and a home where she feels love.

4.5 stars

I always love Shelley Shepard Gray’s books, but I especially love it when she delves into romantic suspense with an Amish twist. So, Gray’s latest Crittenden County romantic suspense, Unshaken – which checks all of those boxes – is right up my alley!

Stephanie Miller is a resilient young Amish woman who is treated like Cinderella by her guardians but, like that classic fairy tale heroine, she maintains a sweet and gracious spirit in spite of it. Needless to say though, she isn’t expecting her dollar store run to turn into a run for her life. But after witnessing a murder in broad daylight and being rescued by a Good Samaritan, she is forced to blend into the Englisch world, at least temporarily, and rely on strangers to protect her. Something made a little bit easier – and simultaneously more difficult – by the fact that the Good Samaritan’s handsome, ex-military brother is her new protector. There’s something about Gray’s tough-but-protective heroes that is so swoony, and Hardy is <blissful sigh> the top of the list. I got all gooey over him with his first amused half-smile in Stephanie’s direction, crushed on him a little more when he starts feeling all proprietary over her protection, but I really fell for him while he and Stephanie are watching TV together. That scene is so cute and sweet for several reasons, not the least of which is that we get to see his softer side & his sense of humor. In fact, if you’re thinking now that you might want to read the book just to discover that scene, I wouldn’t even blame you.

Another reason I enjoyed Unshaken involves the focus of the opening prologue – Timothy. The author weaves his perspective into the story at different intervals, a technique I thought added to the suspenseful tension as well as the overall emotional depth. It’s a good reminder that no one is only what we see externally but rather an intricate system of layers made up of our backstories, our fears, our hopes and dreams, our faith (or lack thereof), how loved we feel (or don’t) and our current circumstances. I truly had no idea how his story would end up, and Gray does a great job of bringing it to a resolution that is just as emotionally complex as his role in the story as a whole.

Bottom Line: Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Gray had me fully invested from the prologue to the epilogue and is my new fave of her recent releases. Stephanie and Hardy are a delightful pair of characters to spend time with, and watching them fall in love made me smile. Hardy’s past may have made him an intimidating presence but Gray gives him an endearing soft side around Stephanie and I adored the combination. The suspense delivered some of my favorite elements – like forced proximity and witness protection – and it’s done in such a layered way that I even felt sympathy for one of the antagonists. Unshaken was truly a pleasure to read in every way!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Gray
Unshaken: Contemporary Amish Romantic Suspense with a Protective Hero Set in Southern Ohio
He helps her hide until danger has passed. She hopes her cover lasts long enough.
When Stephanie Miller planned her visit to a dollar store in southern Ohio, she was expecting to pick up a few items she couldn't find in her Amish community. She was not expecting to find herself an innocent bystander as a drug deal went horribly wrong. The sole witness to a murder, now Stephanie is targeted by the gunman.
Hardy Anderson is always ready to help his social worker sister, Bev--which now includes hiding an Amish woman until a killer can be brought to justice. Surely if they dress her in English clothing, Hardy can hide her at the sprawling ranch where he works. But the killer is desperate--and there's no telling what lengths he will go.
This is Stephanie Miller's story.
This is Hardy Anderson's story.
This is Bev Anderson's story
This is Carter's story
This story is about Stephanie, an Amish girl who witnessing a murder at the dollar store.
Another witness Bev Anderson saves Stephanie as the gunman is aiming his gun at her.
Hardy, Bev, and Carter work together to protect Stephanie.
The suspense will keep you reading to the end of this book.
Amish readers who love suspense and mystery will love this book.
I recommend reading this book.
Unshaken by Shelley Shepard Gray is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Shelley Shepard Gray.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.

When a young Amish woman witnesses a murder, she is quickly whisked away from her everyday life to live under protection on a ranch far from her home. Bev, a social worker, sees what happened and decides immediately to send young Stephanie to her brother who lives and works on a ranch with a gate guard and ranch hands to protect her. Bev’s brother Hardy works for the wealthy ranch owner Carter and both men served in the military together. While Stephanie is on the ranch, she has to be on her guard, watching for possible danger, but she is also relaxed for the first time since her parents died and left her to live with her demanding aunt and uncle. I really enjoyed Stephanie’s dynamic growth of self-discovery in this novel as well as her growing independence and enjoyment of many things that most individuals take for granted, like snacks and TV shows. I especially liked the way the relationship between Hardy and Stephanie developed. He is a hero but not a particularly handsome one, just one who is willing and capable. The second developing romance was a pleasant and additional surprise. The danger is real as there is a gang of killers who want Stephanie dead, but Hardy is devoted to safeguarding her. I liked the way the action intensified and the drama increased at the same time. I also liked the way the author brought all of the threads of the plot together and concluded it all in a satisfactory way that made me glad that I read the story. This is a book not to be missed by fans of Amish fiction combined with romantic suspense.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review of the book, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Unshaken is a tightly plotted, read in one sitting Amish suspense thriller you can’t put down. Written with an understanding of Amish culture and how they relate to people outside their community, added an extra depth of interest to the book.

After witnessing a murder Stephanie is frozen with fear and rescued by Bev, a social worker. Injured and scared she allows Bev to find a safe place for her with Hardy, Bev’s younger brother. The unease and fear are palpable in the writing as Stephanie has to come to terms with her new circumstances.

I love Hardy. He’s a man of quiet character and a born protector. His patience and empathy with Stephanie made me a fan right from the start. It was apparent from the beginning that he was the perfect man for her, and she was the missing piece of his life. Age and circumstances, rather than being obstacles, helped cement the relationship.

There’s a strong faith thread throughout the book that ties everything together, including Tom, the young man hunting Stephanie. I liked the fact that his story was intertwined with theirs as the story progresses.

This excellent Amish suspense was given to me courtesy of Revell through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of the book.

Amish fiction readers will enjoy this new novel. When Stephanie, a young Amish woman is caught up in a robbery of the local dollar store her life is changed forever. Social worker Bev recognizes the shooter and sets our 5o get her brother to help protect Stephanie. Hiding and protecting proves to quite challenging. Suspense with a little romance. Recommended.