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theavidreaderandbibliophile's review against another edition
5.0
Lovely stories. The stories are well-written and enjoyable to read. I will post my review soon!
scoutmomskf's review against another edition
4.0
A Cup Half Full by Beth Wiseman
Newlyweds Sarah and Abram's lives forever changed when a buggy accident left Sarah confined to a wheelchair. While she recovered in the hospital, Abram started transforming their home. He wants nothing more than to show his love for her by making life easier for her, but it comes at a higher price than he expected. He struggles to find a way out of debt without burdening Sarah with his troubles. Meanwhile, Sarah is bitter about the loss of her perfect dreams, and fearful of what the future might bring.
I ached for both Abram and Sarah as they struggled alone with their issues, neither wanting to burden the other. Sarah was filled with self-pity at the beginning, but gained inspiration from an unlikely source. I liked seeing her begin to embrace her new normal, though there were still challenges to overcome. Her conversation with her mother was an eye-opener for her, coupled with an amusing revelation. I also liked her conversation with Abram's coworker, Brenda, and the unexpected partnership that came from it.
Abram quickly discovered that he was in over his head when the bills came due for his work on the house. I shook my head at his naivete when he got involved with the quick loan guy and knew there would be trouble there. I liked his friendship with his coworker, and the support she gave him. I understood his reluctance to share his problems with Sarah, since she was fighting her own battles. I liked his conversation with his father-in-law and the surprising resolution that came from it.
The biggest thing that both Sarah and Abram discovered was that their problems were easier to deal with when they were shared with each other.
Home Sweet Home by Amy Clipston
Chace and Mia are a young couple who have fallen on hard times. When they are evicted from their apartment Chace's Amish boss offers them the small house on his property. Though grateful for the roof over their heads, both are overwhelmed by how different their lives are from what they had planned. Though they came from very different backgrounds, Chace and Mia's love for each other and their baby daughter was strong. I ached for them both as the stress of their situation aggravated their fears of inadequacy. Chace was never accepted by Mia's wealthy and snobby parents, and he feels guilty about not providing for them the way he feels he should. Mia is terrified of being a bad mother, thanks to the cruel things her mother said to her. Though the stress frequently caused them to lash out at each other, they never doubted their love for one another.
I enjoyed seeing how Isaac and his family gave the couple the support they needed. Unfamiliar with Amish ways, Mia was stunned by everything that was offered. I liked seeing the friendship that grew between Mia and Vera, and how that friendship helped Mia gain a little confidence in herself. I hurt for Chace when one thing after another seemed to go wrong, stretching him to the breaking point. I loved how Isaac provided the kind of guidance that Chace had never experienced before.
When baby Kaitlyn got sick, it brought many of their fears bubbling to the surface. Erupting tempers did nothing to calm those fears. I liked seeing both of them finally face those fears, and with a little help find their way back together.
A Flicker of Hope by Ruth Reid
This is a story told in flashbacks, back and forth from the present day to fifteen years earlier. Thomas and Noreen have been married for fifteen years. The book opens in the present as their house burns down and they lose everything. The reader immediately gets the sense that things are not well with their marriage, and the fire adds to the strain that is already there.
In the flashbacks, we see their courtship and early marriage. Thomas irritated me during these parts. He professes his love for Noreen, but it seems like he is more interested in what he wants. Noreen's father is not in favor of their courtship or of Thomas wanting to marry her. Instead of biding by her father's wishes for them to wait, Thomas continues to push. A tragedy ends up forcing her father's consent, but he makes Thomas promise to always put her needs ahead of his own. The early days of their marriage are blissfully happy until a devastating loss drives a wedge between them. For the next fifteen years their relationship slowly disintegrates, leaving both lonely and bitter.
It seems as if the fire may be the final straw that drives them apart. Both Thomas and Noreen blame themselves, and the guilt causes them to withdraw rather than lean on each other for support. I liked the way that their community banded together to help, but even that added a bit of stress to the couple's life, as it became more difficult to hide their problems. As they combed through the rubble of their home, now and then something would remind them of the love they shared at the beginning. Just as things seem to be looking up, another devastating loss adds insult to injury. Fortunately, Thomas also receives a kick in the seat that reminds him of what is most important. I loved the ending with its two surprises for a new beginning.
Building Faith by Kathleen Fuller
Faith misses her grandfather deeply. She feels closest to him when she works with the wood they both loved. Since his passing, Faith spends all of her free time in the shop, shutting out everyone else. When her cousin and best friend, Martha, asks Faith to build the cabinets in her new kitchen she is happy to take on the challenge. That is, until she discovers that she has to share the job with her ex-fiancé, Silas.
Silas works as a carpenter with his father. He hasn't always been the most reliable of workers, but he's had to make the effort lately. His father is busy taking care of Silas's sick mother, leaving Silas to run the business. With mounting bills to pay, Silas can't afford to turn down any work. When his friend, Melvin, hired him to build the cabinets in his new home, Seth felt a great deal of relief. He was determined to do a good job, and was dismayed to find out he would have to work alongside Faith.
This was a good opposites attract story. Faith and Silas courted and became engaged, in spite of their differences. Silas was a bit of a dreamer, with creative ideas but lacking in the ability to follow through. Time meant nothing to him and he was always late. Faith is ultra-organized, preferring to plan and schedule everything to the minute. Silas's attitude frustrated her, but when he didn't show up for her grandfather's funeral, she'd had enough and ended their engagement without explanation. Living in the same district, they can't avoid seeing each other, though they do their best.
Neither was happy to discover that they'd each been hired to build the cabinets, but they tried to put aside their differences for the sake of their friends. There were some intense clashes between Faith and Silas. Faith can't forget the issues that drove them apart, and Silas is frustrated by Faith's controlling ways. A big blowup between them opens Faith's eyes to some uncomfortable truths. I liked the scene the next day as they finally talked to each other instead of their usual sniping. I loved how they worked things out. The conclusion was sweet and satisfying.
Newlyweds Sarah and Abram's lives forever changed when a buggy accident left Sarah confined to a wheelchair. While she recovered in the hospital, Abram started transforming their home. He wants nothing more than to show his love for her by making life easier for her, but it comes at a higher price than he expected. He struggles to find a way out of debt without burdening Sarah with his troubles. Meanwhile, Sarah is bitter about the loss of her perfect dreams, and fearful of what the future might bring.
I ached for both Abram and Sarah as they struggled alone with their issues, neither wanting to burden the other. Sarah was filled with self-pity at the beginning, but gained inspiration from an unlikely source. I liked seeing her begin to embrace her new normal, though there were still challenges to overcome. Her conversation with her mother was an eye-opener for her, coupled with an amusing revelation. I also liked her conversation with Abram's coworker, Brenda, and the unexpected partnership that came from it.
Abram quickly discovered that he was in over his head when the bills came due for his work on the house. I shook my head at his naivete when he got involved with the quick loan guy and knew there would be trouble there. I liked his friendship with his coworker, and the support she gave him. I understood his reluctance to share his problems with Sarah, since she was fighting her own battles. I liked his conversation with his father-in-law and the surprising resolution that came from it.
The biggest thing that both Sarah and Abram discovered was that their problems were easier to deal with when they were shared with each other.
Home Sweet Home by Amy Clipston
Chace and Mia are a young couple who have fallen on hard times. When they are evicted from their apartment Chace's Amish boss offers them the small house on his property. Though grateful for the roof over their heads, both are overwhelmed by how different their lives are from what they had planned. Though they came from very different backgrounds, Chace and Mia's love for each other and their baby daughter was strong. I ached for them both as the stress of their situation aggravated their fears of inadequacy. Chace was never accepted by Mia's wealthy and snobby parents, and he feels guilty about not providing for them the way he feels he should. Mia is terrified of being a bad mother, thanks to the cruel things her mother said to her. Though the stress frequently caused them to lash out at each other, they never doubted their love for one another.
I enjoyed seeing how Isaac and his family gave the couple the support they needed. Unfamiliar with Amish ways, Mia was stunned by everything that was offered. I liked seeing the friendship that grew between Mia and Vera, and how that friendship helped Mia gain a little confidence in herself. I hurt for Chace when one thing after another seemed to go wrong, stretching him to the breaking point. I loved how Isaac provided the kind of guidance that Chace had never experienced before.
When baby Kaitlyn got sick, it brought many of their fears bubbling to the surface. Erupting tempers did nothing to calm those fears. I liked seeing both of them finally face those fears, and with a little help find their way back together.
A Flicker of Hope by Ruth Reid
This is a story told in flashbacks, back and forth from the present day to fifteen years earlier. Thomas and Noreen have been married for fifteen years. The book opens in the present as their house burns down and they lose everything. The reader immediately gets the sense that things are not well with their marriage, and the fire adds to the strain that is already there.
In the flashbacks, we see their courtship and early marriage. Thomas irritated me during these parts. He professes his love for Noreen, but it seems like he is more interested in what he wants. Noreen's father is not in favor of their courtship or of Thomas wanting to marry her. Instead of biding by her father's wishes for them to wait, Thomas continues to push. A tragedy ends up forcing her father's consent, but he makes Thomas promise to always put her needs ahead of his own. The early days of their marriage are blissfully happy until a devastating loss drives a wedge between them. For the next fifteen years their relationship slowly disintegrates, leaving both lonely and bitter.
It seems as if the fire may be the final straw that drives them apart. Both Thomas and Noreen blame themselves, and the guilt causes them to withdraw rather than lean on each other for support. I liked the way that their community banded together to help, but even that added a bit of stress to the couple's life, as it became more difficult to hide their problems. As they combed through the rubble of their home, now and then something would remind them of the love they shared at the beginning. Just as things seem to be looking up, another devastating loss adds insult to injury. Fortunately, Thomas also receives a kick in the seat that reminds him of what is most important. I loved the ending with its two surprises for a new beginning.
Building Faith by Kathleen Fuller
Faith misses her grandfather deeply. She feels closest to him when she works with the wood they both loved. Since his passing, Faith spends all of her free time in the shop, shutting out everyone else. When her cousin and best friend, Martha, asks Faith to build the cabinets in her new kitchen she is happy to take on the challenge. That is, until she discovers that she has to share the job with her ex-fiancé, Silas.
Silas works as a carpenter with his father. He hasn't always been the most reliable of workers, but he's had to make the effort lately. His father is busy taking care of Silas's sick mother, leaving Silas to run the business. With mounting bills to pay, Silas can't afford to turn down any work. When his friend, Melvin, hired him to build the cabinets in his new home, Seth felt a great deal of relief. He was determined to do a good job, and was dismayed to find out he would have to work alongside Faith.
This was a good opposites attract story. Faith and Silas courted and became engaged, in spite of their differences. Silas was a bit of a dreamer, with creative ideas but lacking in the ability to follow through. Time meant nothing to him and he was always late. Faith is ultra-organized, preferring to plan and schedule everything to the minute. Silas's attitude frustrated her, but when he didn't show up for her grandfather's funeral, she'd had enough and ended their engagement without explanation. Living in the same district, they can't avoid seeing each other, though they do their best.
Neither was happy to discover that they'd each been hired to build the cabinets, but they tried to put aside their differences for the sake of their friends. There were some intense clashes between Faith and Silas. Faith can't forget the issues that drove them apart, and Silas is frustrated by Faith's controlling ways. A big blowup between them opens Faith's eyes to some uncomfortable truths. I liked the scene the next day as they finally talked to each other instead of their usual sniping. I loved how they worked things out. The conclusion was sweet and satisfying.
jazzyjan94's review against another edition
4.0
This review appears on my blog: https://confessionsofabookwormweb.wordpress.com/2019/12/27/book-review-an-amish-home-by-various-authors/
For those of you who have been long-time readers of the blog, you’ll probably remember that I used to read a lot of novella collections a few years back, however I stopped after a while because sometimes I didn’t really like the stories. However, since I jumped back into reading more Amish and Christian fiction a couple months ago, I discovered that there were a lot of Amish fiction novella collections available and I was curious to try them out. An Amish Home is the first one I picked up, and I was not disappointed!
As I’ve done for previous reviews of novella collections, I am going to write a review for each one and then do an overall review for the entire collection at the end.
A Cup Half Full by Beth Wiseman
Beth Wiseman is one of my new favorite writers that I’ve discovered in the last few months, I’ve really been enjoying her Daughters of the Promise series, and I also really enjoyed this novella by her. “A Cup Half Full” follows a young Amish woman, Sarah, who was in an accident a month before the start of the novella that left her legs paralyzed. She starts to adapt to life in a wheelchair, however she also harbors bitterness towards God for allowing her to live. Her husband, Abram, does everything he can to help her adjust to a new way of life, but also holds on to the hope that someday they can have children, but Sarah’s fears of her ability to take care of a child hinders that. I really enjoyed this story and I felt like the author did a good job of dealing with a somewhat difficult topic, however she did it in a really good way and in such a way that it didn’t seem like the story was rushed in the end or that everything was tied up neatly. 4/5 Stars.
Home Sweet Home by Amy Clipston
Amy Clipston is an Amish fiction author I’ve been meaning to read from for a few weeks, but I just haven’t gotten the chance to. “Home Sweet Home” follows Chance and Mia who are forced to move into the daadi haus belonging to Chance’s boss after they are evicted from their apartment. However, as they adjust to life without modern conveniences, they also have to deal with being in debt and a newborn, and the stress that comes with all the issues they are currently facing. Will they ever feel at home in their new dwelling place? This was another good novella, it deals with issues such as finances and how that can put stress on a marriage, and even some of the resolution wasn’t quickly tied up, it also left some loose ends, which is realistic. The end gave the feel that yes, things are looking up for Chance and Mia, but that doesn’t mean its going to be perfect and that they still have issues that they need to work through in the future. There were a couple of times I found Mia to be somewhat exceedingly cruel to her husband, however it did make sense considering all the stress they are going through. I look forward to reading more of Amy Clipston’s novels in the future. 3.5/5 Stars.
A Flicker of Hope by Ruth Reid
Ruth Reid is an author who was completely new to me, I had not heard of her until I picked up this collection, but I was not disappointed! A Flicker of Hope follows a style that I really enjoy, a story set in the present day, while also switching to events the characters’ past that had effect on the present day. I felt like the author did a go great job in switching back and forth and as well as dealing with very real issues. This novella follows Amish couple Thomas and Noreen King, who have been married for fifteen years, the marriage started out well, but after facing many trials their marriage is strained and appears to be getting worse. However, when a fire destroys their house, it might just be the very thing that finally starts to bring them back together. I really enjoyed this story, and it seemed to progress naturally towards the end and it ended happily, but not in the cliche sort of way. I’m definitely keeping Ruth Reid’s works on my radar in the future. 4/5 Stars.
Building Faith by Kathleen Fuller
Kathleen Fuller is another Amish Fiction author that has been on my radar ever since I started reading Beth Wiseman’s books, but I haven’t had a chance to check out her books, but this novella was a good introduction to her writing. “Building Faith” follows Faith Miller who longs to be a carpenter, and finally gets a job making cabinets for her friend, but she soon finds that she will have to work with her ex-fiance, Silas. However, it could be a good opportunity for them to work through differences. I liked the story, but I honestly wish that the communication between Silas and Faith had been better, especially when readers find out how Faith broke off her engagement. Overall, there was a happy ending, but the story was a tiny bit melodramatic. But it also made sense, a little. I’m looking forward to reading some of Kathleen Fuller’s full-length novels in the future. 3.5/5 Stars.
An Amish Home was a great collection of four novellas. I enjoyed each story and I definitely want to continue reading more works from each of these authors in the future. I’m also looking forward to reading more of these novella collections in the months to come. Overall, I am giving the whole collection 4/5 Stars.
For those of you who have been long-time readers of the blog, you’ll probably remember that I used to read a lot of novella collections a few years back, however I stopped after a while because sometimes I didn’t really like the stories. However, since I jumped back into reading more Amish and Christian fiction a couple months ago, I discovered that there were a lot of Amish fiction novella collections available and I was curious to try them out. An Amish Home is the first one I picked up, and I was not disappointed!
As I’ve done for previous reviews of novella collections, I am going to write a review for each one and then do an overall review for the entire collection at the end.
A Cup Half Full by Beth Wiseman
Beth Wiseman is one of my new favorite writers that I’ve discovered in the last few months, I’ve really been enjoying her Daughters of the Promise series, and I also really enjoyed this novella by her. “A Cup Half Full” follows a young Amish woman, Sarah, who was in an accident a month before the start of the novella that left her legs paralyzed. She starts to adapt to life in a wheelchair, however she also harbors bitterness towards God for allowing her to live. Her husband, Abram, does everything he can to help her adjust to a new way of life, but also holds on to the hope that someday they can have children, but Sarah’s fears of her ability to take care of a child hinders that. I really enjoyed this story and I felt like the author did a good job of dealing with a somewhat difficult topic, however she did it in a really good way and in such a way that it didn’t seem like the story was rushed in the end or that everything was tied up neatly. 4/5 Stars.
Home Sweet Home by Amy Clipston
Amy Clipston is an Amish fiction author I’ve been meaning to read from for a few weeks, but I just haven’t gotten the chance to. “Home Sweet Home” follows Chance and Mia who are forced to move into the daadi haus belonging to Chance’s boss after they are evicted from their apartment. However, as they adjust to life without modern conveniences, they also have to deal with being in debt and a newborn, and the stress that comes with all the issues they are currently facing. Will they ever feel at home in their new dwelling place? This was another good novella, it deals with issues such as finances and how that can put stress on a marriage, and even some of the resolution wasn’t quickly tied up, it also left some loose ends, which is realistic. The end gave the feel that yes, things are looking up for Chance and Mia, but that doesn’t mean its going to be perfect and that they still have issues that they need to work through in the future. There were a couple of times I found Mia to be somewhat exceedingly cruel to her husband, however it did make sense considering all the stress they are going through. I look forward to reading more of Amy Clipston’s novels in the future. 3.5/5 Stars.
A Flicker of Hope by Ruth Reid
Ruth Reid is an author who was completely new to me, I had not heard of her until I picked up this collection, but I was not disappointed! A Flicker of Hope follows a style that I really enjoy, a story set in the present day, while also switching to events the characters’ past that had effect on the present day. I felt like the author did a go great job in switching back and forth and as well as dealing with very real issues. This novella follows Amish couple Thomas and Noreen King, who have been married for fifteen years, the marriage started out well, but after facing many trials their marriage is strained and appears to be getting worse. However, when a fire destroys their house, it might just be the very thing that finally starts to bring them back together. I really enjoyed this story, and it seemed to progress naturally towards the end and it ended happily, but not in the cliche sort of way. I’m definitely keeping Ruth Reid’s works on my radar in the future. 4/5 Stars.
Building Faith by Kathleen Fuller
Kathleen Fuller is another Amish Fiction author that has been on my radar ever since I started reading Beth Wiseman’s books, but I haven’t had a chance to check out her books, but this novella was a good introduction to her writing. “Building Faith” follows Faith Miller who longs to be a carpenter, and finally gets a job making cabinets for her friend, but she soon finds that she will have to work with her ex-fiance, Silas. However, it could be a good opportunity for them to work through differences. I liked the story, but I honestly wish that the communication between Silas and Faith had been better, especially when readers find out how Faith broke off her engagement. Overall, there was a happy ending, but the story was a tiny bit melodramatic. But it also made sense, a little. I’m looking forward to reading some of Kathleen Fuller’s full-length novels in the future. 3.5/5 Stars.
An Amish Home was a great collection of four novellas. I enjoyed each story and I definitely want to continue reading more works from each of these authors in the future. I’m also looking forward to reading more of these novella collections in the months to come. Overall, I am giving the whole collection 4/5 Stars.
diamondc's review against another edition
4.0
An Amish Home consist of 4 short novellas all based on struggles, love, redemption and over coming obstacles. I enjoyed all four stories and the characters in them. My favorite two stories were:
An Amish Home by Beth Wiseman is a really great story about love, faith and finding your way again. After an accident left Sarah in a wheel chair and unable to walk, her life changed. She questioned her faith, God and her marriage. Follow Sarah and Abram story in this great story about making the best of your life no matter what happen
Home Sweet Home by Amy Clipston is the second Novella in the "An Amish Home" book. I loved reading this story and it touches my heart. The main Characters Mia and Chace are Englischers who were evicted from their home. Chace's Amish boss allowed them to stay in his farm house until they get things together financially. Mia & Chace struggle with their new home, finances, being young parents and their marriage. I felt their pain, tears and struggles. This young couple had to learn to love each other through their struggles and let GOD lead the way
An Amish Home by Beth Wiseman is a really great story about love, faith and finding your way again. After an accident left Sarah in a wheel chair and unable to walk, her life changed. She questioned her faith, God and her marriage. Follow Sarah and Abram story in this great story about making the best of your life no matter what happen
Home Sweet Home by Amy Clipston is the second Novella in the "An Amish Home" book. I loved reading this story and it touches my heart. The main Characters Mia and Chace are Englischers who were evicted from their home. Chace's Amish boss allowed them to stay in his farm house until they get things together financially. Mia & Chace struggle with their new home, finances, being young parents and their marriage. I felt their pain, tears and struggles. This young couple had to learn to love each other through their struggles and let GOD lead the way
nataliesboooks's review against another edition
2.0
A Cup Half Full (Beth Wiseman) - 1 star
I didn’t like this one at all. The couple didn’t seem compatible and weren’t honest with each other. The conflict was fairly major and seemed to be wrapped up way too quickly. Also, the title is somewhat ironic, since I found the two main characters to be extremely pessimistic.
Home Sweet Home (Amy Clipston) - 4 stars
Amy Clipston has done it again. I really felt for this couple and though they had their problems, they seemed compatible overall. I’m hoping the Amish family of this novella will appear in some of the author’s other works, because these characters don’t seem to be connecting to any of her existing series.
A Flicker of Hope (Ruth Reid) - 1 star
VERY depressing. It seemed like one bad thing after another happened to this couple, to the point that it was almost unrealistic. They didn’t seem compatible either, and again, weren’t honest with each other. I think the flashbacks were supposed to show how they were perfect for each other, but if anything they showed the opposite to me. It’s also the longest in the collection and it felt dragged out and somewhat repetitive.
Building Faith (Kathleen Fuller) - 3 stars
This seemed very short and the conflict was resolved very quickly. The issue with Silas’s mother almost seemed like a copout to me. I did like that Silas and Faith actually talked about the issues they had with each other.
I didn’t like this one at all. The couple didn’t seem compatible and weren’t honest with each other. The conflict was fairly major and seemed to be wrapped up way too quickly. Also, the title is somewhat ironic, since I found the two main characters to be extremely pessimistic.
Home Sweet Home (Amy Clipston) - 4 stars
Amy Clipston has done it again. I really felt for this couple and though they had their problems, they seemed compatible overall. I’m hoping the Amish family of this novella will appear in some of the author’s other works, because these characters don’t seem to be connecting to any of her existing series.
A Flicker of Hope (Ruth Reid) - 1 star
VERY depressing. It seemed like one bad thing after another happened to this couple, to the point that it was almost unrealistic. They didn’t seem compatible either, and again, weren’t honest with each other. I think the flashbacks were supposed to show how they were perfect for each other, but if anything they showed the opposite to me. It’s also the longest in the collection and it felt dragged out and somewhat repetitive.
Building Faith (Kathleen Fuller) - 3 stars
This seemed very short and the conflict was resolved very quickly. The issue with Silas’s mother almost seemed like a copout to me. I did like that Silas and Faith actually talked about the issues they had with each other.
kristi518's review against another edition
5.0
From four different authors come four very different stories focusing on family and home. Each author has a unique story and voice that brings a realness to the story. There is something for everyone in this collection.
First is Beth Wiseman's novella. Beth writes about a newlywed Amish couple trying to adapt to marriage and the very new reality of Sarah being confined to a wheelchair. I found myself quickly immersed in this story and wanting a happy ending for this couple.
Next up is Amy Clipston with a different kind of story. Her story focuses on a young couple who end up living in the daadihaus on an Amish family's property. As this young couple struggles, they also find comfort in the friendship the Amish family provides. It was very interesting to read of the interaction between the two different cultures.
Ruth Reid brings a story of an Amish couple struggling with their relationship. It was nice to read about an Amish couple who are facing problems in their marriage. I think it is easy to forget the Amish have the same problems as everyone else and this wonderful story showcased this in a very believable way.
Last but certainly not least is Kathleen Fuller's story. Kathleen has a way of telling a story that makes you want to know more about the characters and want only the best for them. I liked Faith and Silas and found the situation they found themselves in very unique and entertaining.
All of the novellas in this collection are quick reads. All four have good, solid storylines. Each story is told in a way that leaves the reader feeling as if the story is complete at the end. This is a great collection for fans of the genre and those looking for fast, yet meaningful, reads.
I received a free copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
First is Beth Wiseman's novella. Beth writes about a newlywed Amish couple trying to adapt to marriage and the very new reality of Sarah being confined to a wheelchair. I found myself quickly immersed in this story and wanting a happy ending for this couple.
Next up is Amy Clipston with a different kind of story. Her story focuses on a young couple who end up living in the daadihaus on an Amish family's property. As this young couple struggles, they also find comfort in the friendship the Amish family provides. It was very interesting to read of the interaction between the two different cultures.
Ruth Reid brings a story of an Amish couple struggling with their relationship. It was nice to read about an Amish couple who are facing problems in their marriage. I think it is easy to forget the Amish have the same problems as everyone else and this wonderful story showcased this in a very believable way.
Last but certainly not least is Kathleen Fuller's story. Kathleen has a way of telling a story that makes you want to know more about the characters and want only the best for them. I liked Faith and Silas and found the situation they found themselves in very unique and entertaining.
All of the novellas in this collection are quick reads. All four have good, solid storylines. Each story is told in a way that leaves the reader feeling as if the story is complete at the end. This is a great collection for fans of the genre and those looking for fast, yet meaningful, reads.
I received a free copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
booksforchristiangirls's review against another edition
2.0
About this book:
“From bestselling authors Beth Wiseman, Amy Clipston, Ruth Reid and Kathleen Fuller comes a beautiful collection of four novellas that spread the warmth of Amish living with every page.”
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“A Cup Half Full” by Beth Wiseman
About this book:
“Sarah Lantz always dreamed of the perfect home, the perfect husband, the perfect family. When she married Abram, she knew she was on her way to securing her perfect life. All of that changes in one moment when an accident leaves her unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair, dashing all of her dreams. As Abram starts to transform their home, Sarah begins a transformation in her spirit, and she begins, once again, to see her cup as half full.”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & His will; ‘H’ are capital when referring to God; Sarah is not happy with God after the accident & thinks He has forsaken her; Mentions of God, His will & hope; Mentions of prayers, thanking God & blessings over food; Mentions of a bishop, church services & church going; Mentions of a Bible; A few mentions of blessings; A couple mention of miracles.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘geez’ and a ‘shut up’; A bit of eye rolling; Drinking, beers & a bar; Mentions of an injured duck & blood (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of nightmares (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a car accident & injuries; Mentions of debts; Mentions of lies; A mention of almost cursing; A mention of manure; A mention of throwing up.
Sexual Content- a hand/figure kiss, two cheek kisses, a forehead kiss, a almost kiss, a not-detailed kiss, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Touches & being carried to a bed (twice) (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to embrace & feeling physical love; Noticing; Hinted intimacy (truly just hints of barely-above-not-detailed); Many mentions of marital intimacy on a wedding night & nights after (and how it went), hinted intimacy in a novel, Abram hoping to have intimacy with his wife that night, being ready for intimacy & baby making in a bedroom (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of flirting, winks, dating, break-ups, & jealousy; A few mentions of what a man is longing for in their bedroom; A few mentions of thinking a husband might be cheating; A couple mentions of a married couple enjoying themselves; A bit of love & being in love;
*Notes: A few mentions of a man just wearing a pair of boxers, hoping for intimacy with his wife; A couple mentions of a wife’s bare shoulders; A couple mentions of Sarah being fertile & it being safe in a few days for embraces; A mention of playing hooky with a wife; A mention of nursing; A mention of a curvy woman.
-Sarah Lantz, age 23
-Abram Lantz
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Home Sweet Home” by Amy Clipston
About this book:
“Down on their luck and desperate after they are evicted from their small apartment, Chace and Mia O’Conner reluctantly take Chace’s Amish boss up on his offer to rent them the daadihaus located on his property. They are certain they will never feel at home in the rustic cabin without any modern conveniences, and they start to blame each other for their seemingly hopeless situation. But with the help of their new Amish friends, Chace and Mia begin to enjoy their cozy cabin and realize that home really is where the heart is.”
Spiritual Content- A Scripture is quoted, talked about & remembered; Prayers; Going to a church; Talks about God; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of churches, church going, church services, Amish beliefs, youth group, & singings; A few mentions of blessings; A couple mentions of guardian angels; A couple mentions of peace;
*Note: There is a scene at a church talking to a woman who’s called a pastor.
Negative Content- A bit of sarcasm; Mentions of hate filled comments & verbal abuse; A few mentions of robbing a place, shooting someone & ending up in jail; A few mentions of a thief & stealing; A few mentions of gossip; A couple mentions of jealousy.
Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, a head kiss, a not-detailed kiss, two barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and two semi-detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss (once); Touches, Smelling, Tingles, & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Mia & Chace had an unplanned pregnancy & then got married (no details on how it happened); a ‘babe’; Mentions of leaving a spouse; A few mentions of noticing; A bit of love, being in love & the emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of breastfeeding; A mention of a short skirt.
-Mia O’Conner
-Chace O’Conner, age 24
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“A Flicker of Hope” by Ruth Reid
About this book:
“Fifteen years ago, Thomas and Noreen King were blissful newlyweds. Young, naive, and in love, life was rosy . . . for a while. Then trials and tribulations rocked their foundation, shattering them emotionally, and soon, their marriage was in shards. All hope for restoring their previously unshakable union seems lost. When fire destroys their home, Thomas and Noreen are left to sift through the rubble. As uncovered items from the remains of the house shake loose memories of the past, Thomas and Noreen begin to draw closer and a flicker of hope—and love—is re-ignited.”
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; Scriptures are quoted, mentioned & remembered; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Thomas is upset at God in the beginning; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & blessings over food; Mentions of a bishop, church, church services, church going, & singings; A few mentions of being blessed & blessings; A couple mentions of Bibles & reading.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: 2 ‘stupid’; Injuries, pain & bruises (up to semi-detailed); A fire, trying to get out and put it out, smoke & pain (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of the fire; Mentions of pain, blood & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of burglaries, vandalism & slaughter livestock (and vandalism with pig’s blood); A few mentions of throwing up; A couple mentions of manure.
Sexual Content- six forehead kisses, four barely-above-not-detailed kisses, four semi-detailed kisses, and a detailed kiss; Touches, Embraces, Smelling & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); A labor, screams & miscarriage (semi-detailed); Mentions of marital intimacy, undressing & bare skin (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of reputation & being alone with the opposite gender; Mentions of blushes; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of doing nothing more after a detailed kiss; Love, being in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of miscarriages; A mention of a woman’s biological clock; A mention of a husband just wearing pajama bottoms.
-Noreen King
-Thomas King, age 39
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Building Faith” by Kathleen Fuller
About this book:
“Faith Miller knows that carpentry is an unlikely hobby for a young Amish woman, but she loves the work and it keeps the memory of her grandfather alive. So when her cousin asks Faith to build the cabinets in her new home, Faith is only too happy to take on the job, even if it is the most ambitious project she has ever taken on. The only catch is that she has to work with her ex-fiance, Silas. As they work to build Martha’s kitchen, can they put the past behind them and start to build faith in one another again?”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God & His will/plan; Mentions of prayers & blessings over food; Mentions of church, church services, & church going; A few mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of blessings.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘stupid’; Sarcasm; A few mentions of lies.
Sexual Content- a barely-above-not-detailed kiss and a semi-detailed kiss; Touches, Embraces, Nearness & Butterflies (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of dating & break-ups; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Faith Miller, age 22
-Silas Graber, age 22
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Beth Wiseman’s: I am a firm believer that Christian Fiction needs to have more diverse characters, including those with disabilities. The only thing I liked about this novella was Sarah. I honestly was very disappointed in all the intimacy mentions and some comments felt like…not typical Amish comments. They really needed to talk things out. So much miscommunication, which I never enjoy in my reading. This novella was more focused on the physical kind of love, than the emotional, just being loving kind of love; if that makes sense.
Amy Clipston’s: Different from her previous Amish books, the main couple aren’t Amish! I really enjoyed that fact and enjoyed it. There was a lot of angst though, that made me hold on to my heart at many moments. ;)
Ruth Reid’s: This one seemed more than a bit depressing to me; the majority of the chapters in this novella go back-n-forth between present day and fourteen to fifteen years earlier, happy times. Thankfully, this novella ends better, but I still wasn’t thrilled with all the miscommunication.
Kathleen Fuller’s: My second favorite after Amy Clipston’s, but it felt much shorter than the rest of the novellas. The bickering got to be a bit much and then it did a one-eighty, but I like the ending. ;)
I wasn’t expecting this novella collection to have the majority of them be about married couples (which can be fine depending on mentions). I wouldn’t say this was my favorite Amish novella collection, but I did enjoy Amy Clipston’s novella the best and would love to see/read about that couple again in one of her books.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogspot.com/2017/02/an-amish-home-by-beth-wiseman-amy.html
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from one of the authors for this honest review.
“From bestselling authors Beth Wiseman, Amy Clipston, Ruth Reid and Kathleen Fuller comes a beautiful collection of four novellas that spread the warmth of Amish living with every page.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“A Cup Half Full” by Beth Wiseman
About this book:
“Sarah Lantz always dreamed of the perfect home, the perfect husband, the perfect family. When she married Abram, she knew she was on her way to securing her perfect life. All of that changes in one moment when an accident leaves her unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair, dashing all of her dreams. As Abram starts to transform their home, Sarah begins a transformation in her spirit, and she begins, once again, to see her cup as half full.”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & His will; ‘H’ are capital when referring to God; Sarah is not happy with God after the accident & thinks He has forsaken her; Mentions of God, His will & hope; Mentions of prayers, thanking God & blessings over food; Mentions of a bishop, church services & church going; Mentions of a Bible; A few mentions of blessings; A couple mention of miracles.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘geez’ and a ‘shut up’; A bit of eye rolling; Drinking, beers & a bar; Mentions of an injured duck & blood (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of nightmares (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a car accident & injuries; Mentions of debts; Mentions of lies; A mention of almost cursing; A mention of manure; A mention of throwing up.
Sexual Content- a hand/figure kiss, two cheek kisses, a forehead kiss, a almost kiss, a not-detailed kiss, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Touches & being carried to a bed (twice) (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to embrace & feeling physical love; Noticing; Hinted intimacy (truly just hints of barely-above-not-detailed); Many mentions of marital intimacy on a wedding night & nights after (and how it went), hinted intimacy in a novel, Abram hoping to have intimacy with his wife that night, being ready for intimacy & baby making in a bedroom (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of flirting, winks, dating, break-ups, & jealousy; A few mentions of what a man is longing for in their bedroom; A few mentions of thinking a husband might be cheating; A couple mentions of a married couple enjoying themselves; A bit of love & being in love;
*Notes: A few mentions of a man just wearing a pair of boxers, hoping for intimacy with his wife; A couple mentions of a wife’s bare shoulders; A couple mentions of Sarah being fertile & it being safe in a few days for embraces; A mention of playing hooky with a wife; A mention of nursing; A mention of a curvy woman.
-Sarah Lantz, age 23
-Abram Lantz
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Home Sweet Home” by Amy Clipston
About this book:
“Down on their luck and desperate after they are evicted from their small apartment, Chace and Mia O’Conner reluctantly take Chace’s Amish boss up on his offer to rent them the daadihaus located on his property. They are certain they will never feel at home in the rustic cabin without any modern conveniences, and they start to blame each other for their seemingly hopeless situation. But with the help of their new Amish friends, Chace and Mia begin to enjoy their cozy cabin and realize that home really is where the heart is.”
Spiritual Content- A Scripture is quoted, talked about & remembered; Prayers; Going to a church; Talks about God; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of churches, church going, church services, Amish beliefs, youth group, & singings; A few mentions of blessings; A couple mentions of guardian angels; A couple mentions of peace;
*Note: There is a scene at a church talking to a woman who’s called a pastor.
Negative Content- A bit of sarcasm; Mentions of hate filled comments & verbal abuse; A few mentions of robbing a place, shooting someone & ending up in jail; A few mentions of a thief & stealing; A few mentions of gossip; A couple mentions of jealousy.
Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, a head kiss, a not-detailed kiss, two barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and two semi-detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss (once); Touches, Smelling, Tingles, & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Mia & Chace had an unplanned pregnancy & then got married (no details on how it happened); a ‘babe’; Mentions of leaving a spouse; A few mentions of noticing; A bit of love, being in love & the emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of breastfeeding; A mention of a short skirt.
-Mia O’Conner
-Chace O’Conner, age 24
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“A Flicker of Hope” by Ruth Reid
About this book:
“Fifteen years ago, Thomas and Noreen King were blissful newlyweds. Young, naive, and in love, life was rosy . . . for a while. Then trials and tribulations rocked their foundation, shattering them emotionally, and soon, their marriage was in shards. All hope for restoring their previously unshakable union seems lost. When fire destroys their home, Thomas and Noreen are left to sift through the rubble. As uncovered items from the remains of the house shake loose memories of the past, Thomas and Noreen begin to draw closer and a flicker of hope—and love—is re-ignited.”
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; Scriptures are quoted, mentioned & remembered; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Thomas is upset at God in the beginning; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & blessings over food; Mentions of a bishop, church, church services, church going, & singings; A few mentions of being blessed & blessings; A couple mentions of Bibles & reading.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: 2 ‘stupid’; Injuries, pain & bruises (up to semi-detailed); A fire, trying to get out and put it out, smoke & pain (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of the fire; Mentions of pain, blood & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of burglaries, vandalism & slaughter livestock (and vandalism with pig’s blood); A few mentions of throwing up; A couple mentions of manure.
Sexual Content- six forehead kisses, four barely-above-not-detailed kisses, four semi-detailed kisses, and a detailed kiss; Touches, Embraces, Smelling & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); A labor, screams & miscarriage (semi-detailed); Mentions of marital intimacy, undressing & bare skin (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of reputation & being alone with the opposite gender; Mentions of blushes; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of doing nothing more after a detailed kiss; Love, being in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of miscarriages; A mention of a woman’s biological clock; A mention of a husband just wearing pajama bottoms.
-Noreen King
-Thomas King, age 39
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Building Faith” by Kathleen Fuller
About this book:
“Faith Miller knows that carpentry is an unlikely hobby for a young Amish woman, but she loves the work and it keeps the memory of her grandfather alive. So when her cousin asks Faith to build the cabinets in her new home, Faith is only too happy to take on the job, even if it is the most ambitious project she has ever taken on. The only catch is that she has to work with her ex-fiance, Silas. As they work to build Martha’s kitchen, can they put the past behind them and start to build faith in one another again?”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God & His will/plan; Mentions of prayers & blessings over food; Mentions of church, church services, & church going; A few mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of blessings.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘stupid’; Sarcasm; A few mentions of lies.
Sexual Content- a barely-above-not-detailed kiss and a semi-detailed kiss; Touches, Embraces, Nearness & Butterflies (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of dating & break-ups; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Faith Miller, age 22
-Silas Graber, age 22
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Beth Wiseman’s: I am a firm believer that Christian Fiction needs to have more diverse characters, including those with disabilities. The only thing I liked about this novella was Sarah. I honestly was very disappointed in all the intimacy mentions and some comments felt like…not typical Amish comments. They really needed to talk things out. So much miscommunication, which I never enjoy in my reading. This novella was more focused on the physical kind of love, than the emotional, just being loving kind of love; if that makes sense.
Amy Clipston’s: Different from her previous Amish books, the main couple aren’t Amish! I really enjoyed that fact and enjoyed it. There was a lot of angst though, that made me hold on to my heart at many moments. ;)
Ruth Reid’s: This one seemed more than a bit depressing to me; the majority of the chapters in this novella go back-n-forth between present day and fourteen to fifteen years earlier, happy times. Thankfully, this novella ends better, but I still wasn’t thrilled with all the miscommunication.
Kathleen Fuller’s: My second favorite after Amy Clipston’s, but it felt much shorter than the rest of the novellas. The bickering got to be a bit much and then it did a one-eighty, but I like the ending. ;)
I wasn’t expecting this novella collection to have the majority of them be about married couples (which can be fine depending on mentions). I wouldn’t say this was my favorite Amish novella collection, but I did enjoy Amy Clipston’s novella the best and would love to see/read about that couple again in one of her books.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogspot.com/2017/02/an-amish-home-by-beth-wiseman-amy.html
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from one of the authors for this honest review.
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