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An Angel by Her Side
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Katie has lived through tragedy and heartache. But with the angel Elias by her side, the best years...
Rachel King (13 KP) rated Autumn Winds (Seasons of the Heart #2) in Books
Feb 11, 2019
I've been anxiously awaiting the sequel to Summer of Secrets, and this book was worth the wait. A few matters that were left unfinished in the previous book are accounted for here, such as Rachel and Micah's wedding, and the humbling of Bishop Hiram's brash behavior. The introduction of several new characters, such as Ben's two maidel aunts, served to add color to the community of Willow Ridge and even added a dash of humor to the several romance-heavy sub-plots.
I thoroughly enjoyed following along in the lives of Miriam Lantz and her daughters, especially when reading about all of the mouth-watering food that the Sweet Seasons Bakery and Cafe served up everyday. I plan on trying out of a few of the recipes in the back of the book, and I was pleasantly surprised to find a bread recipe that I've tried among those listed.
The background of Amish culture I have also continued to find fascinating, as I learned more of the nuances in speech, behavior, and traditional beliefs. While I find some things too restrictive, such as the clothing and lack of electricity, the adherence to gender roles, the respect they give to one another, their beliefs in the Bible, and their use of wholesome and naturally-grown foods are all things I greatly admire. This book only serves to bring it all to life and make it that much more appealing. I look forward to reading more of this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed following along in the lives of Miriam Lantz and her daughters, especially when reading about all of the mouth-watering food that the Sweet Seasons Bakery and Cafe served up everyday. I plan on trying out of a few of the recipes in the back of the book, and I was pleasantly surprised to find a bread recipe that I've tried among those listed.
The background of Amish culture I have also continued to find fascinating, as I learned more of the nuances in speech, behavior, and traditional beliefs. While I find some things too restrictive, such as the clothing and lack of electricity, the adherence to gender roles, the respect they give to one another, their beliefs in the Bible, and their use of wholesome and naturally-grown foods are all things I greatly admire. This book only serves to bring it all to life and make it that much more appealing. I look forward to reading more of this series.
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated The Seekers (Amish Cooking Class, #1) in Books
Feb 25, 2019
I absolutely love Wanda Brunstetter and her work. I was so excited to get the chance to read and review this book, her first in the Amish Cooking Class series. Setting down to read it, I knew I would be in for fun, but just how much, I had no idea! This book is filled with laughter, romance, faith, hope, inspiration and lots of gut cooking!
Ms. Brunstetter once again creates a novel filled with heart warming characters, plot lines that keep you hooked and messages woven that will leave you thinking and reflecting long after the book is closed. All the characters within this novel face a different challenge in their lives, but through faith and coming together to cook, Ms. Brunstetter sends us on a ride that leaves us smiling at these characters that have come to try and learn to cook.
This is beyond a 5 star book. It's the first of the series, and I'm already wishing I had book 2, The Blessing. If you are looking for a fast paced, inspirational book about the simple life, look no further than this fabulous book. As a bonus, you'll get some great recipes from the teacher in the book! Yum! Bravo, once again, Ms. Brunstetter. Bravo.<a href="http://cafinatedread.com/2017/03/13/barbour-review-crew-review-the-seekers-by-wanda-brunstetter/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Ms. Brunstetter once again creates a novel filled with heart warming characters, plot lines that keep you hooked and messages woven that will leave you thinking and reflecting long after the book is closed. All the characters within this novel face a different challenge in their lives, but through faith and coming together to cook, Ms. Brunstetter sends us on a ride that leaves us smiling at these characters that have come to try and learn to cook.
This is beyond a 5 star book. It's the first of the series, and I'm already wishing I had book 2, The Blessing. If you are looking for a fast paced, inspirational book about the simple life, look no further than this fabulous book. As a bonus, you'll get some great recipes from the teacher in the book! Yum! Bravo, once again, Ms. Brunstetter. Bravo.<a href="http://cafinatedread.com/2017/03/13/barbour-review-crew-review-the-seekers-by-wanda-brunstetter/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated The Amish Midwife's Secret (Love and Promises #2) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
Having not read book 1 in this series, I thought that I may get confused with reading this story. But, pleasantly, I was not and I thoroughly enjoyed this novel by a new to me author. Her writing style is captivating and her characters are heartwarming and friendly. Each page brought me something new to the story and before I knew it, I was on the last page.
This is a story of love, hope, longing and following God's plan for your life, no matter whether you were expecting it, or not. Kyle, Leah, Ben and all the characters within are facing everyday challenges and have to rely on God to help them find their ways. These sweet characters become more than just characters, they become a part of your heart and pull you into their circle. I loved that feeling!
This page turning novel is one that you don't want to miss! You'll be transported to Amish Country, feeling like you've put on that solid colored dress, jumped in the buddies and are following these sweet ladies and men around their homes. If you are looking for a novel that will captivate your mind and soul, grab this 4 star read now. You won't want to miss it! I can't wait to grab book 1 and see where it all began.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
This is a story of love, hope, longing and following God's plan for your life, no matter whether you were expecting it, or not. Kyle, Leah, Ben and all the characters within are facing everyday challenges and have to rely on God to help them find their ways. These sweet characters become more than just characters, they become a part of your heart and pull you into their circle. I loved that feeling!
This page turning novel is one that you don't want to miss! You'll be transported to Amish Country, feeling like you've put on that solid colored dress, jumped in the buddies and are following these sweet ladies and men around their homes. If you are looking for a novel that will captivate your mind and soul, grab this 4 star read now. You won't want to miss it! I can't wait to grab book 1 and see where it all began.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated His Risk (The Amish of Hart County #4) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
Amazing! Another amazing novel and addition to the Amish of Hart County series. To date, I think this is her best one yet in the series, though I did love all of them. Ms. Gray, whose talent has always intrigued me, wrote a novel that pulled me instantly to the center of the story with Calvin and his life. I fell head over heels instantly with him and loved following his risky story.
When Ms. Gray introduced me to Alice, yet another character to fall in love with, I knew this book would be one I would be up long into the night reading. I was right. Seeing Alice with the kinner in her class, then watching her fight her feelings for Calvin, really tugged at my heart through the story!
This is definitely a 5 star worthy novel in this series. The ups, downs, twists, and turns that Ms. Gray add to this absolutely inspirational novel of risking all for love, is wonderful and keeps the reader hooked. I can't wait for the next and final book in the series to get back to Hart County and see what Ms. Gray gives us next. Hats off and twenty thumbs up to a talented author on this one!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse Blog Tours/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
When Ms. Gray introduced me to Alice, yet another character to fall in love with, I knew this book would be one I would be up long into the night reading. I was right. Seeing Alice with the kinner in her class, then watching her fight her feelings for Calvin, really tugged at my heart through the story!
This is definitely a 5 star worthy novel in this series. The ups, downs, twists, and turns that Ms. Gray add to this absolutely inspirational novel of risking all for love, is wonderful and keeps the reader hooked. I can't wait for the next and final book in the series to get back to Hart County and see what Ms. Gray gives us next. Hats off and twenty thumbs up to a talented author on this one!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse Blog Tours/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated The Lopsided Christmas Cake in Books
Feb 27, 2019
In trademark fashion, Wanda Brunstetter, along with Jean Brunstetter, has created another captivating Amish novel. It's a fantastic start to a new series, and kept me hooked until the end. The blended writing style of these two talented ladies was a refreshing experience!
Thelma and Elma's characters stole my heart completely! Their characters are unique! They are identical twins, but they are older, in their 30s. That's unusual in books like these but I loved that twist to the story! They are twins, yet so different. These sweet ladies really kept me smiling! Their devotion to their grandparents, God and to each other was really wonderful. The mishaps of their lives, the possibility of being old maids and never finding love, the quirkiness woven into the story, all of it kept me engrossed in the story. Watching one lopsided yummy cake change that, well it was not what I was expecting but was also refreshing.
I loved Joseph and Delbert's characters, too. They really livened up the story!
This is definitely a book worth 5 stars and 2 thumbs up. It's going to the top of my list of 2017 top reads. If you love yummy cakes, quirky characters, God and family, be sure and snatch this one up! You'll be left wanting more mishaps from these lovely twins! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/review-the-lopsided-christmas-cake-by-wanda-and-jean-brunstetter/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Thelma and Elma's characters stole my heart completely! Their characters are unique! They are identical twins, but they are older, in their 30s. That's unusual in books like these but I loved that twist to the story! They are twins, yet so different. These sweet ladies really kept me smiling! Their devotion to their grandparents, God and to each other was really wonderful. The mishaps of their lives, the possibility of being old maids and never finding love, the quirkiness woven into the story, all of it kept me engrossed in the story. Watching one lopsided yummy cake change that, well it was not what I was expecting but was also refreshing.
I loved Joseph and Delbert's characters, too. They really livened up the story!
This is definitely a book worth 5 stars and 2 thumbs up. It's going to the top of my list of 2017 top reads. If you love yummy cakes, quirky characters, God and family, be sure and snatch this one up! You'll be left wanting more mishaps from these lovely twins! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/review-the-lopsided-christmas-cake-by-wanda-and-jean-brunstetter/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated The Brides of the Big Valley in Books
Feb 23, 2021
Three unique perspectives into Amish life.
The first story is about a widow and her son with Down Syndrome and how she finds love again with a man she least expects. I loved the perseverance in this story! No matter what obstacles many come your way we can't give up but need to figure out ways to over come those obstacles.
Second we have a women at a crossroad in her life, she has to trust fully that God will lead her in the right direction even when it seems everyone around her is against what she believes God is telling her to do. I think this one was a great story on listening to God and not giving in to what the world wants you to do.
Last we have a story about a young women who is very shy who learns to overcome her fears to find love, loss, and a family of her own. This one was probably my favorite. It really is true that you have to stop thinking about what people might think of you and just be yourself or you will never grow into the person you are supposed to be.
I loved this book and would highly recommend adding it to your TBR pile.
I volunteered to read this book from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
The first story is about a widow and her son with Down Syndrome and how she finds love again with a man she least expects. I loved the perseverance in this story! No matter what obstacles many come your way we can't give up but need to figure out ways to over come those obstacles.
Second we have a women at a crossroad in her life, she has to trust fully that God will lead her in the right direction even when it seems everyone around her is against what she believes God is telling her to do. I think this one was a great story on listening to God and not giving in to what the world wants you to do.
Last we have a story about a young women who is very shy who learns to overcome her fears to find love, loss, and a family of her own. This one was probably my favorite. It really is true that you have to stop thinking about what people might think of you and just be yourself or you will never grow into the person you are supposed to be.
I loved this book and would highly recommend adding it to your TBR pile.
I volunteered to read this book from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Lindsay (1693 KP) rated An Amish Family in Books
Jun 14, 2019
Kathleen does herself well with her writing. I do not know if she can out do herself anymore with her stories. Each one that I have read has been good enough for me to want to read more. I have yet to to come across any that is not good.
These stories show the stuggles and faith though out the book. Each story is different and yet endearing to read. You will not know the ending until you get to the last page of that story. Then you will want to know know more about that family and how they are doing.
Building Trust:
In Building Trust, Grace and Joel are eager to marry. Though Grace does not know why her father or anyone else in her family can figure out why her father is acting so angry at Joel King? Joel can not recall why Grace Miller father is upset or recall the reason. Though as you read we find out. Will Joel be able to build trust with Grace father? Grace is told she can not marry Joel King.
Joel King is determined to find out why he can not marry Grace. Will it he get to marry Grace? Will Vernon be able to forgive Joel?
A Heart Full of Love:l(In An Amish Cradle)
Ellie is expecting her first child with her husband. Though when she gives birth to twins. Her mother decides that will take care of the twins and keep them safe. In doing so, she will not let Ellie bond with her daughters.
What is Ellie's mother dealing with that she won't let Ellie take care of her own daughters. Ellie knows she will need help with her daughters. Ellie wants time with her daughters and takes care of them.
Ellie starts to have questions about what happen with a girl named Rachel. She goes over to her parents house and to find the answers. What a sweet ending his story has.
Surprised by Love
Emily feels the need to be seen with a boy. Out of nowhere she chooses Reuban. Will her ploy work with her mother? Emily finds out that Reuban's mother is pressuring him to marry as well.Reuban play along.
Will it be really a match by god, Both do not know it until the past seeks up on them. Do they even know that love is being created by them both seeing each other. Or will they find that they were surprised by love, that they may have started an everlasting love?
A Gift For Anne Marie: (In An Amish Second Christmas)
In A Gift for Anne Marie, Anne Marie wondering about the changes that are coming. She finds out about her mothers letters. When she does she finds out that her mother is getting re-married and they are moving. Anne Marie does not like it at all. She start to feel the changes between her and Nathaniel. Nathaniel does not like the fact that Annie Marie may be moving. Is there anything either can do about it?
These stories show the stuggles and faith though out the book. Each story is different and yet endearing to read. You will not know the ending until you get to the last page of that story. Then you will want to know know more about that family and how they are doing.
Building Trust:
In Building Trust, Grace and Joel are eager to marry. Though Grace does not know why her father or anyone else in her family can figure out why her father is acting so angry at Joel King? Joel can not recall why Grace Miller father is upset or recall the reason. Though as you read we find out. Will Joel be able to build trust with Grace father? Grace is told she can not marry Joel King.
Joel King is determined to find out why he can not marry Grace. Will it he get to marry Grace? Will Vernon be able to forgive Joel?
A Heart Full of Love:l(In An Amish Cradle)
Ellie is expecting her first child with her husband. Though when she gives birth to twins. Her mother decides that will take care of the twins and keep them safe. In doing so, she will not let Ellie bond with her daughters.
What is Ellie's mother dealing with that she won't let Ellie take care of her own daughters. Ellie knows she will need help with her daughters. Ellie wants time with her daughters and takes care of them.
Ellie starts to have questions about what happen with a girl named Rachel. She goes over to her parents house and to find the answers. What a sweet ending his story has.
Surprised by Love
Emily feels the need to be seen with a boy. Out of nowhere she chooses Reuban. Will her ploy work with her mother? Emily finds out that Reuban's mother is pressuring him to marry as well.Reuban play along.
Will it be really a match by god, Both do not know it until the past seeks up on them. Do they even know that love is being created by them both seeing each other. Or will they find that they were surprised by love, that they may have started an everlasting love?
A Gift For Anne Marie: (In An Amish Second Christmas)
In A Gift for Anne Marie, Anne Marie wondering about the changes that are coming. She finds out about her mothers letters. When she does she finds out that her mother is getting re-married and they are moving. Anne Marie does not like it at all. She start to feel the changes between her and Nathaniel. Nathaniel does not like the fact that Annie Marie may be moving. Is there anything either can do about it?
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated A Seat by the Hearth in Books
Feb 27, 2019
Another hit! I can't sing the praises high enough. Mrs. Clipston has brought us Mark's story. I've been waiting patiently (or, those that TRULY know me, know it's not all that patient!) to see what Amy Clipston had in store for Mark and Priscilla. Let me tell you this: she truly had a wonderful story for them. They were absolutely perfect in every way for this moving, heartfelt, gripping addition to the Amish Homestead series.
Mark and Priscilla had to endure an "arranged" marriage but they didn't let that stop them from making the best of it, and learning about one another. Their pasts catch up to them, they learn a lot about what it means to wholly accept oneself, and they learn that there will always be a seat by the hearth for each other to continue their journey in life as not just friends, but as an actual couple.
This book is filled with ups, downs, hope and understanding. Amy Clipston's trademark messages of acceptance and love are woven perfectly through out this incredible journey. God is definitely working on Mark and Priscilla within these pages and I won't soon forget them! They are on my keeper shelf to stay. Mark's play boy ways, and Priscilla's uneasiness are over come by the true love of friendship. Definitely a 5 star worthy novel in this reader's honest opinion! I can't wait for another beautifully chiseled novel from this talented author!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Mark and Priscilla had to endure an "arranged" marriage but they didn't let that stop them from making the best of it, and learning about one another. Their pasts catch up to them, they learn a lot about what it means to wholly accept oneself, and they learn that there will always be a seat by the hearth for each other to continue their journey in life as not just friends, but as an actual couple.
This book is filled with ups, downs, hope and understanding. Amy Clipston's trademark messages of acceptance and love are woven perfectly through out this incredible journey. God is definitely working on Mark and Priscilla within these pages and I won't soon forget them! They are on my keeper shelf to stay. Mark's play boy ways, and Priscilla's uneasiness are over come by the true love of friendship. Definitely a 5 star worthy novel in this reader's honest opinion! I can't wait for another beautifully chiseled novel from this talented author!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Lindsay (1693 KP) rated The Hawaiian Discovery in Books
Aug 30, 2018
Ever wonder what it like to run a bed and breakfast? Well we learn about it a bit though the book of The Hawaiian Discovery. This is only at the beginning. This is where we start out at. Mandy and her husband Ken are the owners of the B and B. Their friend Ellen works there. Ken’s mother calls and we get where they fly back to Hawaii.
We are left Ellen managing the B and B. There are some tragedy and a few surprises along the way. We meet with Ron and Tavi. We start to learn about Ron. This take place mainly in Hawaii and I do not want to give away the ending.
Ellen get to fly to Hawaii for Emergency and spend time there. What happens and what develops while there is really sweet and surprises all. What find out and discovery will be the reason of the title.
Wanda does a wonderful job writing this book with her daughter in law Jean. What a story this and will Ellen get her wish? Ellen seem to be wanting what all Amish want but will she find it in Hawaii or will she not? You fall in love with the characters as you read the book. This book focus on Mandy and Ken and Ellen mostly.
Is Ron who he says he is or is he someone completely different? What could Ron be hiding, if that even his name. All these mysteries. What happens to Ken?
We are left Ellen managing the B and B. There are some tragedy and a few surprises along the way. We meet with Ron and Tavi. We start to learn about Ron. This take place mainly in Hawaii and I do not want to give away the ending.
Ellen get to fly to Hawaii for Emergency and spend time there. What happens and what develops while there is really sweet and surprises all. What find out and discovery will be the reason of the title.
Wanda does a wonderful job writing this book with her daughter in law Jean. What a story this and will Ellen get her wish? Ellen seem to be wanting what all Amish want but will she find it in Hawaii or will she not? You fall in love with the characters as you read the book. This book focus on Mandy and Ken and Ellen mostly.
Is Ron who he says he is or is he someone completely different? What could Ron be hiding, if that even his name. All these mysteries. What happens to Ken?