Unshaken is another really good story by a favorite author, Shelley Shepard Gray. It is intense, fast-paced and has some twists and turns that kept my interest from beginning to end. I had a hard time putting the book down. The characters are realistic and relatable and some are portrayed as people one would like to have as friends. A young Amish woman who as an orphan was taken in by unloving relatives, witnesses a murder and her life is totally disrupted. Can a tough former military man keep her safe from the shooter? Readers who enjoy Amish romance with a bit of suspense will not want to miss Unshaken. I was given a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.

Unshaken

A very suspenseful story. Stephanie is a witness to a murder. She is from the Amish community. Bev gets her brother Hardy to keep Stephanie safe from the bad guys. Stephanie discovers things like old TV shows and other modern things that the Amish didn’t have. Will Hardy be able to keep her safe? Read this exciting story to find out.

I received an advanced copy of the book from NetGalley and the Publisher. This book review is my own opinion.

I enjoyed this book very much. It’s not your typical Amish story, it’s about Stephanie who is at the dollar store and witnesses a shooting. This story has suspense, mystery and romance. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. Another winner by Shelley Shepard Gray. Thank you to NetGalley and Revell.

This is the first book in this series that I have read. I felt that it was a very different book for the author, though she does write both suspense and Amish fiction. Simply put, I loved this book. It was engrossing because of the circumstances, and because of the way that the author developed the characters. Even the bad guy was compelling. I was hooked from the beginning, and didn't expect the way she wrapped up the story. It was a great, feel-good book, and I really needed a book like that!

Also posted on FB, Goodreads, B&N, Amazon, BookBub, CBD. I struggle with those silly links!

This book took me on such an adventure as Stephanie goes into "witness protection" after being a witness to a murder.

I loved how Hardy, Carter and Bev stepped up to protect a woman that was a complete stranger. The strength and courage that Stephanie displayed as she was separated from her Amish community was amazing.

It was hard to see the challenges of kids who were not supported adequately in the foster care system.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

Only on Amazon will you see "Unshaken: Contemporary Amish Romantic Suspense with a Protective Hero Set in Southern Ohio". Otherwise, the title is one word: "Unshaken."

The author in 'Dear Readers' at the end of the book tells the challenges "Unshaken" gave her. And how neighbors helped. Because "They liked Stephanie. They liked Hardy.

They understood Bev and Carter." And THAT in three short sentences states the MUST HAVE for me to rate a book a five-star.
A lead character is Stephanie, an orphan taken in by her aunt & uncle who, IMHO (in my humble opinion), treated her like an unliked servant, not a niece.

The other lead is Hardy, who is former military, tough yet compassionate, a loving brother, a friend who stands by you, and a leader of a security team for a very wealthy man's ranch.

There are three other key characters: Carter, the wealthy man who served with Hardy. Bev, Hardy's sister, is a social worker for young people who truly cares. And Timothy, one of Bev's "kids," has made a bad choice.

You've read the description. Most of this story transpires outside of the Amish neighborhood. The settings are vivid. There are tough scenes without the ugly details. Infused throughout is the strong faith of Hardy, Bev, and Carter.

Stephanie lacked that deep faith, but that is not surprising given her life with the uncaring aunt & uncle. And what was happening to her now.
A note for the author: "Unshaken" may have been challenging to write, BUT you ended up with one of your best books yet. Definitely five stars. A book I highly recommend.

I received a complimentary DRC (digital review copy) of “Unshaken” via NetGalley from the publisher, Revell. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 5 stars
Cover: Perfect -- once I read the book.
Pages: 300
Publish Date: 3 June 2025
#Unshaken #NetGalley #ShelleyShepardGray #netgalleyreviewer

“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!