Reviews

Listening to Love by Beth Wiseman

kbranfield's review against another edition

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4.0

4.5 stars.

Listening to Love is a thought-provoking Amish story of love, healing, friendship and family. Although this latest release is the second installment in Beth Wiseman's An Amish Journey series, it can be read as a standalone.

Nineteen year old Natalie Collins is an Englischer whose relationship with God has grown through her friendship with Lucas Shetler. Through an unexpected inheritance and her friends' generosity, Natalie is going to college where she plans to achieve her life-long dream of becoming a veterinarian. Despite all of the positive things in her life, Natalie is troubled by her mother Cecelia's inability to move past her hurt and bitterness from her divorce. She is also dipping into her college savings to help support Cecelia whose financial situation is becoming dire. The time Natalie spends with Lucas is a huge bright spot in her life but do their feelings for one another run deeper than friendship?

Natalie is a caring and very responsible young woman but she is growing weary of financially and emotionally supporting her mom.  She is also a bit concerned about the career path she has chosen for herself. Natalie and Lucas live in very different worlds but they are trying to remain true to the plans that God has for them. Both of their friends and families are growing worried that their relationship might turn into a romance. Thankfully, Natalie has Lucas and God to help her navigate the unexpected obstacles that suddenly appear in her life.  

Lucas and his family are Old Order Amish which is very strict and eschews modern technology. Even in the face of his mother's disapproval, he cannot deny how drawn he is to Natalie. If they are to have a future together, one of them will have to sacrifice the life they are currently living. Can Lucas walk away from his family and faith in order for them to be together?

Cecelia has been trying hard to overcome the betrayal of her husband divorcing her. She feels guilty over relying so heavily on her daughter and she is growing desperate as she searches for employment. When Cecelia meets Lucas's neighbor Moses Schwartz, she does not hesitate to accept his job offer. She is happily settling into her new position and she is finally beginning to regain her lost confidence. But will Cecelia revert to destructive coping mechanisms when faced with an unexpected crisis?

Listening to Love is a heartwarming Amish novel with an engaging romance and endearing characters. Natalie and Lucas are winsome characters who are faced with life-altering decisions once they fall in love. They both grow and change as they work together to make the right choice for their future. Cecelia's story arc is quite uplifting but challenging as she begins healing from her painful divorce. Old and new fans of Beth Wiseman's An Amish Journey series are going to love this newest addition to this heartfelt series.

arjayebrewerforestfern's review against another edition

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5.0

Another great book in the series and like the first you’ll want to keep reading to find out more. What a story with unexpected turns and twists in events. I enjoyed hearing more about Mary and Levi and also hearing about Natalie and Levi too oh how much their lives both changed.

It’s a wonderful read and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves Christian fiction and or Amish novels.

rachel93's review against another edition

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5.0

I’m loving this new series. Listening To Love focuses on Natalie and Lucas’s story. With the return of previous characters as well. This one was more of a shocker then a tear jerker. I did not see some of it coming. I’m glad all worked out and I’m pleased with the growth of Natalie’s mother. I liked that Lucas helped Natalie learn about God. Just as well written as the first book. I’m can’t wait for the next and hope that it won’t be the last.

Highly recommend you check this out if you’re a fan of Amish fiction.

travelerswife4life's review against another edition

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5.0

Such a good story!
When I started reading this book I immediately realized I had already read the first book in this series. This book can totally be read as a stand alone. This continuation of Natalie and Lucas's story, I think it is one of the best I've read in a while. Both Natalie and Lucas have to learn the art of communication, dealing with emotions, and over coming obstacles of change.
I give this story 5 out of 5 stars for the unique and unexpected twists, the overcoming spirits that the characters display, and the great story line.
I love Beth Wiseman's stories and this one did not disappoint, just leaves you wanting more.
I volunteered to read this book from Zondervan Fiction in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

melmo2610's review against another edition

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5.0

I am a huge fan of this series and these characters and I was thrilled to get to “visit” them again. The plot of this one was interesting with a bit of a mystery angle. I really enjoyed this one-nearly as much as book 1 in the set. I am excited to see how the series finishes up in book 3.

that_little_drop_of_poison's review against another edition

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hopeful slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

kristi518's review against another edition

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4.0

It seems as if a common theme in Amish fiction these days is an attraction between an Amish person and a non-Amish person. Such is the case in Listening to Love. I feel like this is one of the best stories dealing with this storyline that I've read. It seemed very realistic with the warnings both received from family and friends. It also seemed realistic because there were problems in the relationship due to the differences in backgrounds. The author did a great job of portraying both sides of the story and in a way that was honest and genuine.

While this is the second book in the series it can totally be read as a standalone. However, I would recommend reading the series in order to have the entire story and background of these characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
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