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The Amish Matchmakers
This Amish matchmaker is an expert at finding love for others, but will she find it for herself? Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie are the town innkeepers—and the town matchmakers. But when a new tenant moves into a guest cottage at their Peony Inn, the sisters are shocked to discover that maybe this time, one of them might finally find a match of her own. Retired dentist Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus has signed a six-month lease at the cottage—and gentle Esther and spirited Lizzie are in a surprising competition for the kind doctor’s affections. Dr. Stoltzfus doesn’t appear to be Amish, but his last name and his mysterious background have the sisters guessing—and open to the possibility of finding love again. Things really heat up when Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy, comes to visit. Escaping her big-city life in Texas, Mindy has moved to Amish country to be closer to her grandfather and to embrace the simpler life she has longed for. But she’s unprepared for what happens when an attractive young Amish man, who spends time at the inn helping out the widows, runs his lawnmower right into her little red sports car. Sure, Gabriel is cute and funny and nice—but can a romance between an Englisch girl and an Amish boy end well? As Mindy and Gabriel find themselves thrown together time after time, they forge a friendship and start making matchmaking plans of their own. Which sister would be better for Mindy’s grandfather—Esther or Lizzie? And as the two young people put their energy into playing Cupid, it looks like love and the life they’ve both dreamed of might also be finding them.
336 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2023
58 people are currently reading
2307 people want to read
About the author
Beth Wiseman
138 books1,439 followers"I wish I had the time to review books and chat with you here, but my writing deadlines just don't allow it. Please like my Fans of Beth Wiseman Page on Facebook where I try to post any news and interact with readers."
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.
You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.
You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
December 2, 2023
I don’t usually read books with Amish storylines but The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman caught my eye and I decided to give it a try. It was a good choice on my part because I really enjoyed it. I listened to the audiobook that was very well narrated by Lauren Berst. The Amish Matchmakers was the first book that I have had the pleasure of reading by Beth Wiseman. It was part of a series but I found that it could be easily read as a standalone book. At some point, I may go back and read the preceding books in the series just to get a more complete understanding of the characters and how they got to where they were in this book. I will look for books in the future by Beth Wiseman since I enjoyed her writing and the themes she wrote about.
There were two widowed Amish sisters who were as close as sisters could be. However, Esther and Lizzie were also as different from one another as they could be. The two things the sisters shared in common were their unconditional love and respect for each other and the love of matchmaking. The sisters, Esther and Lizzie, also ran the Peony Inn together since their husbands died. They had recently rented out their guest cottage for six months to a retired dentist by the name of Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus. Unbeknownst to the sisters, their matchmaking skills were about to take a different path. Each sister thought that the other sister would be a good match for Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus. Even though Stoltzfus was an Amish name, their renter insisted that he was not Amish. Could either Esther or Lizzie be a match for the handsome and intriguing dentist that was renting their cottage?
In the meantime, Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus had a granddaughter who he recently got reacquainted with. She purposely sought out a house to purchase in Amish country so she could be closer to her grandfather. Shortly after her grandfather’s arrival at the cottage, Mindy had come to visit him to see how he was doing. Her grandfather was showing Mindy around his cottage when she heard a loud noise. When Mindy looked out the front window, to her astonishment, Mindy saw that her little car had been struck by a lawnmower. Gabriel, a local Amish young man who had been hired by Esther and Lizzie to take care of the grounds that surrounded the Peony Inn, had hit Mindy’s car with the lawnmower he was using. Gabriel felt terrible but he was also very attracted to Mindy. There was an instant attraction between both Mindy and Gabriel. Could there be two budding romances? Usually the Amish frowned upon mingling with the English. Would Gabriel have enough willpower to resist his feelings for Mindy? Did their romance stand a chance?
I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. It would be nice if this series continued. The characters were engaging and likable. It was about family, friendship, trust, matchmaking, sisterly love, community, faith, romantic love, second chances and following one’s heart. I enjoyed The Amish Matchmakers very much and highly recommend it.
Thank you to the publisher, Harper Collins Christian Publishers/Zondervan for allowing me to listen to The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
There were two widowed Amish sisters who were as close as sisters could be. However, Esther and Lizzie were also as different from one another as they could be. The two things the sisters shared in common were their unconditional love and respect for each other and the love of matchmaking. The sisters, Esther and Lizzie, also ran the Peony Inn together since their husbands died. They had recently rented out their guest cottage for six months to a retired dentist by the name of Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus. Unbeknownst to the sisters, their matchmaking skills were about to take a different path. Each sister thought that the other sister would be a good match for Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus. Even though Stoltzfus was an Amish name, their renter insisted that he was not Amish. Could either Esther or Lizzie be a match for the handsome and intriguing dentist that was renting their cottage?
In the meantime, Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus had a granddaughter who he recently got reacquainted with. She purposely sought out a house to purchase in Amish country so she could be closer to her grandfather. Shortly after her grandfather’s arrival at the cottage, Mindy had come to visit him to see how he was doing. Her grandfather was showing Mindy around his cottage when she heard a loud noise. When Mindy looked out the front window, to her astonishment, Mindy saw that her little car had been struck by a lawnmower. Gabriel, a local Amish young man who had been hired by Esther and Lizzie to take care of the grounds that surrounded the Peony Inn, had hit Mindy’s car with the lawnmower he was using. Gabriel felt terrible but he was also very attracted to Mindy. There was an instant attraction between both Mindy and Gabriel. Could there be two budding romances? Usually the Amish frowned upon mingling with the English. Would Gabriel have enough willpower to resist his feelings for Mindy? Did their romance stand a chance?
I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. It would be nice if this series continued. The characters were engaging and likable. It was about family, friendship, trust, matchmaking, sisterly love, community, faith, romantic love, second chances and following one’s heart. I enjoyed The Amish Matchmakers very much and highly recommend it.
Thank you to the publisher, Harper Collins Christian Publishers/Zondervan for allowing me to listen to The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2024
A delightful and unique book that I enjoyed reading. This was my first time reading one of Beth Wiseman’s books and it didn’t disappoint. Although it was Amish Fiction it was different from other books in this genre. I loved that the Author wrote senior romance and also featured a younger couple. The book was a simmering pot of emotions that made for an excellent read. There was wit and humor but there was also sad times too. The story held my interest from the first chapter till the last one.
Two elderly Amish sisters who run a bed and breakfast Inn in Montgomery find the opportunity to do some matchmaking in this book. When a handsome Englisch Widower, a retired dentist rents a rustic cabin from them for the winter he turns both their heads. The innkeepers get busy trying to match up each other to the lone Englisch man. Dr. Stoltzfus is a man with a lot of secrets but he’s a real charmer even at his age. But there’s more matchmaking going on than for the seniors when their Amish handyman at the inn becomes smitten with the Dentist’s granddaughter. See how all this turns out when you read the book.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction and to fans of Beth Wiseman. It can be read as a standalone.
I purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
Two elderly Amish sisters who run a bed and breakfast Inn in Montgomery find the opportunity to do some matchmaking in this book. When a handsome Englisch Widower, a retired dentist rents a rustic cabin from them for the winter he turns both their heads. The innkeepers get busy trying to match up each other to the lone Englisch man. Dr. Stoltzfus is a man with a lot of secrets but he’s a real charmer even at his age. But there’s more matchmaking going on than for the seniors when their Amish handyman at the inn becomes smitten with the Dentist’s granddaughter. See how all this turns out when you read the book.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction and to fans of Beth Wiseman. It can be read as a standalone.
I purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
November 5, 2023
I highly recommend The Amish Matchmakers to every reader who enjoys stories of faith, trust, family, friendship, and laughter. This five-star entertaining novel is comprised of lovable characters with such unique personalities and talents.
Beth Wiseman, best-selling author and multi-award winner, writes what I call escape scapes! I so greatly enjoy the humor, bantering, and the Bible-based faith elements throughout this story. Each person in this story represents the Amish community in a real-life manner -- complete with illnesses and challenges. Wiseman explains many Amish traditions which I appreciate as I love to learn new things.
Besides Lizzie, Esther, and Mindy, what I loved the most about The Amish Matchmakers are the many messages woven throughout the tale to bring each reader closer to God and remind the reader of His absolute truths.
The Amish Matchmakers is such a wholesome, satisfying, funny, lovable page-turner.
I received an eArc of The Amish Matchmakers from Zondervan through NetGalley.com. I was not required to write a review or paid to do so. The words above are my honest review of this fabulous book that I'm sure to re-read many times!
Beth Wiseman, best-selling author and multi-award winner, writes what I call escape scapes! I so greatly enjoy the humor, bantering, and the Bible-based faith elements throughout this story. Each person in this story represents the Amish community in a real-life manner -- complete with illnesses and challenges. Wiseman explains many Amish traditions which I appreciate as I love to learn new things.
Besides Lizzie, Esther, and Mindy, what I loved the most about The Amish Matchmakers are the many messages woven throughout the tale to bring each reader closer to God and remind the reader of His absolute truths.
The Amish Matchmakers is such a wholesome, satisfying, funny, lovable page-turner.
I received an eArc of The Amish Matchmakers from Zondervan through NetGalley.com. I was not required to write a review or paid to do so. The words above are my honest review of this fabulous book that I'm sure to re-read many times!
October 17, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers is an adorable, feel-good story. I truly enjoyed listening to the book. The narrator did a great job of voicing all of the characters. The characters are so very likable. Especially the older and quirky Lizzy. I think anyone who wants a fun escape from reality will enjoy this light hearted, and heart-warming read.
*I was given a copy of the audio version of the book, and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of the audio version of the book, and this is my honest opinion.
August 27, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an advance copy of this book in return for my honest opinions.
Publication Date: : 17 Oct 2023
Beth Wiseman is one of my favorite authors. This book was a bit different because it contain information that the Amish Inn is supposedly haunted! I just loved that little addition
The two main characters sisters Lizzie and Esther are both widows, own the Amish Inn and are total opposites . Ben, and an older widowed gentleman, a retired English dentist, rents their small cabin to be closer to his Granddaughter.
Both Lizzie and Ester are attracted to him. As the story progresses many secrets are revealed. It is a beautiful story full of sweet romance, mystery and a happy ending. I'm a sucker for happy endings!
Five Stars. Highly recommend.
Publication Date: : 17 Oct 2023
Beth Wiseman is one of my favorite authors. This book was a bit different because it contain information that the Amish Inn is supposedly haunted! I just loved that little addition
The two main characters sisters Lizzie and Esther are both widows, own the Amish Inn and are total opposites . Ben, and an older widowed gentleman, a retired English dentist, rents their small cabin to be closer to his Granddaughter.
Both Lizzie and Ester are attracted to him. As the story progresses many secrets are revealed. It is a beautiful story full of sweet romance, mystery and a happy ending. I'm a sucker for happy endings!
Five Stars. Highly recommend.
December 30, 2023
Such a feel good heart warming story!!
Narration was excellent!!!
So much depth and relativity written into the characters and the storyline. Was fun and easy to follow. Some emotional scenes for sure but overall such joy and goodness in the writing. Really enjoyed the quirkiness and sister relationship between Esther and Lizzie!! So cute! Young love and old love too!! Definitely recommend!
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collin’s Christian publishing for my advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Narration was excellent!!!
So much depth and relativity written into the characters and the storyline. Was fun and easy to follow. Some emotional scenes for sure but overall such joy and goodness in the writing. Really enjoyed the quirkiness and sister relationship between Esther and Lizzie!! So cute! Young love and old love too!! Definitely recommend!
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collin’s Christian publishing for my advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 23, 2023
I am a big fan of Beth Wiseman’s books and this one did not disappoint. It continues the story of Amish sisters Lizzie and Esther. They live together and run the Peony Inn. This time the matchmakers turn their attention on each other. I loved the characters in this book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes Amish fiction. I am eagerly looking forward to Beth’s next book!
December 18, 2023
If you love someone enough, you give them the freedom to choose.
I have enjoyed this series with the older sisters Lizzy and Esther that own Peony Inn. They are known for their antics in match making but the tables have turned this time around. Englisher Benjamin Stoltzfus is renting the old cottage the sisters had rented to an old spunky friend that had passed away. The sisters are quite taken with Ben and each have decided to play matchmaker with the other to Ben. Things become interesting when Ben's granddaughter Mindy is attracted to the sisters help Gabriel. This becomes a mutual attraction. A few threads going on with Mindy and Gabriel. Mindy and her grandfather. Grandfather with the sisters. At times, it has serious tones but mostly it is light hearted on second chances and waiting for God to reveal his plan. In the words of Gabriel's mother, if you don't know what God's plan is go find out. Each of them were confused with the what comes next but were comforted by how God confirmed those plans. I think we all have experienced that. It was a great reminder that God is involved in the details.
A special thank you to Zondervan Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
I have enjoyed this series with the older sisters Lizzy and Esther that own Peony Inn. They are known for their antics in match making but the tables have turned this time around. Englisher Benjamin Stoltzfus is renting the old cottage the sisters had rented to an old spunky friend that had passed away. The sisters are quite taken with Ben and each have decided to play matchmaker with the other to Ben. Things become interesting when Ben's granddaughter Mindy is attracted to the sisters help Gabriel. This becomes a mutual attraction. A few threads going on with Mindy and Gabriel. Mindy and her grandfather. Grandfather with the sisters. At times, it has serious tones but mostly it is light hearted on second chances and waiting for God to reveal his plan. In the words of Gabriel's mother, if you don't know what God's plan is go find out. Each of them were confused with the what comes next but were comforted by how God confirmed those plans. I think we all have experienced that. It was a great reminder that God is involved in the details.
A special thank you to Zondervan Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
April 24, 2023
This was a wonderful book about love and faith and family. It shows you have a little faith abd ove. You will find the right person who you belong too. I enjoyed the characters and storyline. This book was approved by netgalley and the publisher for me to read and review.
January 20, 2024
A sweet storyline with happy ending. A little different from other Amish books I have read on the interactions but still very engaging and heartwarming.
May 7, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers is a very well written Amish romance. I recommend this book to those whe enjoy Amish fiction. Thanks to Netgalley for my advance ebook.
April 27, 2025
Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie are the town innkeepers and the town matchmakers. Retired dentist Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus has signed a six-month lease at the cottage, part of the Peony Inn. His name is Amish, but he is not a baptized Plain man. Why has he come to Amish Country. It seems that the sisters might be making a match for one another, or maybe even themself. When Benjamin's granddaughter, Mindy, comes to visit, she meets Gabriel, an Amish man who runs his lawnmower into her little red sports car. Mindy decides to stay to be closer to her grandfather and live a simpler life, but what will this mean for a relationship between this Englischer and young Amish man? As Mindy and Gabriel become friends, they also decide to help her grandfather make a match with one of the sisters, but which one?
I enjoyed this book. Esther and Lizzie might have been sisters, but they couldn't have been more different from one another. Lizzie is the spirited one, and Esther is quiet and gentle. They make a good team. I enjoyed the banter between the sisters and how they tried to match each other with Benjamin. They were cautious about Mindy and Gabriel though, especially as a young man falling for an Englischer could cause him to leave the faith and become shunned. This story made me laugh several times as these possible matches played out. There is a serious tone as well, surrounding a secret that Benjamin is keeping and the reason he moved to Montgomery, Indiana. I loved the ending of this book and thought it was well written. If you enjoy Amish Fiction, I recommend The Amish Matchmakers.
I enjoyed this book. Esther and Lizzie might have been sisters, but they couldn't have been more different from one another. Lizzie is the spirited one, and Esther is quiet and gentle. They make a good team. I enjoyed the banter between the sisters and how they tried to match each other with Benjamin. They were cautious about Mindy and Gabriel though, especially as a young man falling for an Englischer could cause him to leave the faith and become shunned. This story made me laugh several times as these possible matches played out. There is a serious tone as well, surrounding a secret that Benjamin is keeping and the reason he moved to Montgomery, Indiana. I loved the ending of this book and thought it was well written. If you enjoy Amish Fiction, I recommend The Amish Matchmakers.
September 30, 2023
Beth Wiseman tells a wonderful story about two old sisters Esther and Lizzie who run a bed and breakfast. When a handsome older retired dentist shows up and rents one of the cabins on the property, the two women find themselves secretly trying to match him up with each other. Esther knows that her health isn’t good and is hiding her Parkinson's. She feels if Lizzie had someone to love, she wouldn’t be left alone. Lizzie worries that Esther will need someone to care for her as she ages, so she wants the dentist for Esther. Unfortunately, Lizzie finds herself more and more attracted to the man for herself.
In the meantime, Ben (the old dentist) has his own secrets about his health and his past and has moved to the cabin to be close to his granddaughter, Mindy. Mindy loves her grandfather and after visiting him finds herself falling for the attractive Gabriel who help around the sisters’ property.
The story moves seamlessly between the sisters’ schemes for Ben, and Mindy and Gabriel’s growing attraction. Ben isn’t Amish, neither is Mindy - a problem for any future love match. The sisters discover a jealousy that hadn’t ever existed between them. The tug and pull of love versus loyalty, versus family keeps the reader turning the pages.
Being an older reader myself, I thoroughly enjoyed the love story of the sisters and the dentist. It is sensitively and delightfully written. It is rare to find a romance novel these days that wants to tackle love stories for people who are older and this one does so brilliantly. And of course, Mindy and Gabriel’s young love is passionate and sweet and balances out the other story. This was a really delightful read.
I received an advance reader copy of this book for free and I am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
In the meantime, Ben (the old dentist) has his own secrets about his health and his past and has moved to the cabin to be close to his granddaughter, Mindy. Mindy loves her grandfather and after visiting him finds herself falling for the attractive Gabriel who help around the sisters’ property.
The story moves seamlessly between the sisters’ schemes for Ben, and Mindy and Gabriel’s growing attraction. Ben isn’t Amish, neither is Mindy - a problem for any future love match. The sisters discover a jealousy that hadn’t ever existed between them. The tug and pull of love versus loyalty, versus family keeps the reader turning the pages.
Being an older reader myself, I thoroughly enjoyed the love story of the sisters and the dentist. It is sensitively and delightfully written. It is rare to find a romance novel these days that wants to tackle love stories for people who are older and this one does so brilliantly. And of course, Mindy and Gabriel’s young love is passionate and sweet and balances out the other story. This was a really delightful read.
I received an advance reader copy of this book for free and I am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
October 17, 2023
So…I was holding off on this one, as I thought I was not going to love it. I do like the Amish crafts, and appreciate their way of life…but a book about this?? Really?? Well, I wasn’t sure.
Well…I was TOTALLY WRONG!!
I loved this book!!
It had me chuckling SO MANY times throughout!
It also made me laugh. Out Loud!! Brought me to tears. And…made me think more about God…and their simpler way of life and living…
Esther and Lizzie are widowed sisters, in their 70’s (I think) who run The Peony Inn. Esther is quieter and sweet. Lizzie is a hell raiser…or spirited, as they say! 😂 Quite the pair!
Dr. Ben has just rented one of their cottages for six months! Not only are they interested in seeing what makes him tick…but, he’s HANDSOME too!!
His granddaughter Mindy has recently moved to the area in pursue of a nursing degree…and he wants to be close with her as he’s getting older…
Did I mention that Esther and Lizzie are known as the town matchmakers??
Only one problem! They are Amish. Ben is not!
The story progresses and you feel like you are there, living it with them, thru the good and bad…
Beautifully written.
Loved each and every character…and that is rare (for me!)
Brought out ‘all the feels’…
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsChristianPublishing for an ARC of the audiobook which releases October 17th! (Today)
#TheAmishMatchmakers by #BethWiseman. Narrated by #LaurenBerst.
Check out all my book reviews on Instagram @ #BookReviews_with_emsr.
Thanks for reading! 📚📖
Well…I was TOTALLY WRONG!!
I loved this book!!
It had me chuckling SO MANY times throughout!
It also made me laugh. Out Loud!! Brought me to tears. And…made me think more about God…and their simpler way of life and living…
Esther and Lizzie are widowed sisters, in their 70’s (I think) who run The Peony Inn. Esther is quieter and sweet. Lizzie is a hell raiser…or spirited, as they say! 😂 Quite the pair!
Dr. Ben has just rented one of their cottages for six months! Not only are they interested in seeing what makes him tick…but, he’s HANDSOME too!!
His granddaughter Mindy has recently moved to the area in pursue of a nursing degree…and he wants to be close with her as he’s getting older…
Did I mention that Esther and Lizzie are known as the town matchmakers??
Only one problem! They are Amish. Ben is not!
The story progresses and you feel like you are there, living it with them, thru the good and bad…
Beautifully written.
Loved each and every character…and that is rare (for me!)
Brought out ‘all the feels’…
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsChristianPublishing for an ARC of the audiobook which releases October 17th! (Today)
#TheAmishMatchmakers by #BethWiseman. Narrated by #LaurenBerst.
Check out all my book reviews on Instagram @ #BookReviews_with_emsr.
Thanks for reading! 📚📖
July 19, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers is a very entertaining story about Amish widows, Lizzie and Esther, who are experts at helping their friends find love. When Ben, a retired dentist, rents one of the guest cottages at the inn, the sisters try to match each other with the handsome and kind doctor. Mindy, Ben’s granddaughter, and Gabe, who helps out around the inn, also try their hand at matching Ben with one of the sisters. Things get really interesting when secrets start to come out, and it turns out that just about everyone is keeping some kind of secret.
Beth Wiseman is a master storyteller who does an amazing job of balancing serious and hilarious plotlines. The characters are all very well-developed, especially the sisters, who we’ve been following through previous books in the Amish Inn series. The entire story is funny and engaging, especially the scrapes that the sisters wind up in during their matchmaking process. The budding romance between Mindy and Gabe just added even more enjoyment to an already great story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction or Amish stories. And if you haven’t already, you will definitely want to read the previous books in the Amish Inn series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Beth Wiseman is a master storyteller who does an amazing job of balancing serious and hilarious plotlines. The characters are all very well-developed, especially the sisters, who we’ve been following through previous books in the Amish Inn series. The entire story is funny and engaging, especially the scrapes that the sisters wind up in during their matchmaking process. The budding romance between Mindy and Gabe just added even more enjoyment to an already great story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction or Amish stories. And if you haven’t already, you will definitely want to read the previous books in the Amish Inn series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 29, 2023
This stand-alone read took me back to the Peony Inn and the world of Ms. Wiseman’s Amish Inn series where I first met the sisters who headline this story—spunky, unpredictable Lizzy and conventional, levelheaded Esther. These lovable septuagenarians are at it again with their matchmaking but this time with a twist—matchmaking for each other with the same man! What ensues is a laugh-out-loud, heartwarming chain of events. There is also another romance brewing which adds interest to the story with some Amish/Englisch complications. The cleverly constructed, attention-keeping plot moves at a fitting pace. The wonderful characters are well-developed and realistic. I especially appreciate the valuable faith lessons on trusting God and following His guidance. Lizzie and Esther’s story left me feeling happy! I think other Amish fiction fans will embrace it, too!
I received a copy of this book from Zondervan via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from Zondervan via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 7, 2023
I love Beth Wiseman's Amish Fiction- she is one of the best author's in this genre. In this installment, she tackled a romance between one of our beloved Peony Inn sisters and a new character. The widows have been one of the staples and highlights of this series and reading this book felt like returning home. Warm and cozy, full of heart and mirth. Tackling a romance between characters that are in their 70s has to be handled deftly not to create agism stereotypes and while two of the three older characters have health problems, I think it is probably realistic. Lizzie is quirky, but I think she was just as quirky as a twenty year old then a 70 year old...it's just her personality. I think she handled the romance well....as well as the younger romance that was also featured. The epilogue sealed the book for me...because there was hope for the other beloved widow to find her second love, which I was rooting for...one more book for the sisters, please?
thanks to #Zondervan fiction and #netgalley for the ARC.
thanks to #Zondervan fiction and #netgalley for the ARC.
July 31, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman is another adventure with Lizzie and Esther at the Peony Inn. Let me just say: I loved it! I read it all in one sitting. I smiled. I cried. I laughed out loud several times. Between the sisters trying to set each other up with the same man and Lizzie worried about a haunted cottage, there was plenty of fun. There was also plenty of heart. Truth spoken and hope for the future. Thank you NetGalley and the author and the publisher. As always, I am grateful for the chance to read her books.
April 19, 2025
Exactly what I needed to cheer me up for the holidays. I found myself giggling out loud a lot during this book. It was so wholesome and sweet ♥️ The language is simple and overall has a very feel good vibe to it. This is the type of book that you pick up after a long stressful day at work with some tea, warm lighting & a blanket
November 19, 2023
I am destined to be an outlier on this one, but I did not find much enjoyment in reading "The Amish Matchmaker," by Beth Wiseman. I have avoided books of this genre, unless an Amish family happens to be included in mainstream contemporary fiction, rather than it being a book with Amish in the title and part of a genre that has grown around a fictional Amish community. I love learning about The Amish, and respect their way of life (which is often not as peaceful as the public thinks it is), but I sensed that novels of this genre would be simplistic and a bid preachy. I gave this one a true to satisfy my curiosity, and it will probably be the last I read of this sort.
Everything about the novel felt contrived and totally predictable. Elder widowed sisters, Lizzie and Esther, are innkeepers in their small town amidst The Amish community. The Peony Inn has guest cottages on the property, and at the start of the tale, a retired dentist named Benjamin Stoltzfus comes to stay in one of those cottages, despite there being no electricity or running water. The women fuss over him, offering to do his laundry and take care of anything he might need. They offer him another rental that does have all the modern conveniences, but he is insistent to staying in this little Amish Cottage despite not being Amish himself. His name perplexes those who meet him, as it certainly sounds like an Amish name, though he states repeatedly he has no connections to The Amish community. There is a lot of silliness over which woman should date this man, each sister assuming it should be the other. Benjamin's granddaughter, Mindy, comes to live in the town as well, leaving her busy life in Texas behind. She wants to be near her grandfather and get to know him better.
Mindy has her own reasons for wanting to live in a sleepy Amish village. She yearns for a simple life, and tries her best to embrace it. When she meets a young Amish man named Gabriel sparks fly, but Gabriel is soon to be baptized, and engaging with an "English" (or as The Amish say, "Anglish") woman seems to be impossible if he is to stay in the community. Their connection, however, is too strong to be ignored, which is all very predictable. What was not apparent from the start, however, are the secrets Mindy's grandfather has been keeping from her, and from everyone around him, secrets that when revealed, will change the lives of all these characters. I would have liked a tidier ending than the author provided and some more in depth conversations between characters. Thankfully, this novel was not terribly long, so it was over and done quickly.
I listened to the audiobook of "The Amish Ancestors" and I will say that the narration was really good, especially with the narrators pronunciation of the Pennsylvania Deutch way of speaking. It often sounds like German and/or Yiddish to me, which makes sense as it is actually derived from a German dialect, not Dutch, as many people wrongly assume. The Pa. Deutch were German immigrants who maintained their way of speaking for generations in this country. I learned a few new words, so there was something positive to come from the hours I spent listening to this mediocre story. My rating is really 2.5 stars, but there is no way to do that on Goodreads, so I rounded up.
Everything about the novel felt contrived and totally predictable. Elder widowed sisters, Lizzie and Esther, are innkeepers in their small town amidst The Amish community. The Peony Inn has guest cottages on the property, and at the start of the tale, a retired dentist named Benjamin Stoltzfus comes to stay in one of those cottages, despite there being no electricity or running water. The women fuss over him, offering to do his laundry and take care of anything he might need. They offer him another rental that does have all the modern conveniences, but he is insistent to staying in this little Amish Cottage despite not being Amish himself. His name perplexes those who meet him, as it certainly sounds like an Amish name, though he states repeatedly he has no connections to The Amish community. There is a lot of silliness over which woman should date this man, each sister assuming it should be the other. Benjamin's granddaughter, Mindy, comes to live in the town as well, leaving her busy life in Texas behind. She wants to be near her grandfather and get to know him better.
Mindy has her own reasons for wanting to live in a sleepy Amish village. She yearns for a simple life, and tries her best to embrace it. When she meets a young Amish man named Gabriel sparks fly, but Gabriel is soon to be baptized, and engaging with an "English" (or as The Amish say, "Anglish") woman seems to be impossible if he is to stay in the community. Their connection, however, is too strong to be ignored, which is all very predictable. What was not apparent from the start, however, are the secrets Mindy's grandfather has been keeping from her, and from everyone around him, secrets that when revealed, will change the lives of all these characters. I would have liked a tidier ending than the author provided and some more in depth conversations between characters. Thankfully, this novel was not terribly long, so it was over and done quickly.
I listened to the audiobook of "The Amish Ancestors" and I will say that the narration was really good, especially with the narrators pronunciation of the Pennsylvania Deutch way of speaking. It often sounds like German and/or Yiddish to me, which makes sense as it is actually derived from a German dialect, not Dutch, as many people wrongly assume. The Pa. Deutch were German immigrants who maintained their way of speaking for generations in this country. I learned a few new words, so there was something positive to come from the hours I spent listening to this mediocre story. My rating is really 2.5 stars, but there is no way to do that on Goodreads, so I rounded up.
October 18, 2023
What a wonderful story with laughs, adventure and a sweet look at romance from young adults to older adults. I was so happy to read about my new friends Esther and Lizzie again. It is not a secret that they love to play matchmaker. The sisters are so different but they have one thing in common. They love the idea of romance and enjoy matching couples together. I loved how we get to see a bit more of their personalities and how much they look out for each other.
When a retired dentist moves in to the cottage near their Bed and Breakfast he causes quite a stir among the sisters. I laughed at one moment in the story when Lizzie thinks that Ben is dead. What she does to see if he is alive is almost like a I Love Lucy moment. The author brings humor to the story as both sisters seem to like Ben . They each are trying to play matchmaker for the other which leads to misunderstandings and a tinge of jealousy. I would love to be their neighbors because they are sweet , caring and full of life.
There is another little romance brewing between Ben’s granddaughter and an Amish young man. How they meet is a series of accidents that find Mindy and Gabriel pushed together. Oh it is so nice to see these young people get acquainted. They are from different backgrounds but that doesn’t stop them from having feelings for each other. It was nice to discover where the author would take the characters as she illustrates the importance of family, faith and love.
Lizzie and Esther have a close bond and are always looking out for each other. Ben does the same for his granddaughter. The family relationships are well defined in the story and I loved how this was used to show that families are to love each other unconditionally. They prefer each other and are an example of how God loves us.
There are some very emotional moments in the book as the author addresses a sensitive subject. My heart began to beat a little faster as I was so worried where the story would go. I loved the journey with these wonderful characters as I laughed and cried throughout the book. It is evident that God played a big part in this story and brought happiness and hope to many. This story will always be my favorite from this author. It touches on finding love again as we become older and to never give hope no matter what doctors say . My review will never give this book the recognition it deserves. I can’t express into words how much this story has touched me. Thank you Beth for giving me peace as I grow older and go through challenges that older people face. I will always remember Lizzy and Esther and their unconditional love for each other. Their hearts to help others find love is humbling and remind me of the scripture, “ No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for a friend.”
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The review is my own opinion.
When a retired dentist moves in to the cottage near their Bed and Breakfast he causes quite a stir among the sisters. I laughed at one moment in the story when Lizzie thinks that Ben is dead. What she does to see if he is alive is almost like a I Love Lucy moment. The author brings humor to the story as both sisters seem to like Ben . They each are trying to play matchmaker for the other which leads to misunderstandings and a tinge of jealousy. I would love to be their neighbors because they are sweet , caring and full of life.
There is another little romance brewing between Ben’s granddaughter and an Amish young man. How they meet is a series of accidents that find Mindy and Gabriel pushed together. Oh it is so nice to see these young people get acquainted. They are from different backgrounds but that doesn’t stop them from having feelings for each other. It was nice to discover where the author would take the characters as she illustrates the importance of family, faith and love.
Lizzie and Esther have a close bond and are always looking out for each other. Ben does the same for his granddaughter. The family relationships are well defined in the story and I loved how this was used to show that families are to love each other unconditionally. They prefer each other and are an example of how God loves us.
There are some very emotional moments in the book as the author addresses a sensitive subject. My heart began to beat a little faster as I was so worried where the story would go. I loved the journey with these wonderful characters as I laughed and cried throughout the book. It is evident that God played a big part in this story and brought happiness and hope to many. This story will always be my favorite from this author. It touches on finding love again as we become older and to never give hope no matter what doctors say . My review will never give this book the recognition it deserves. I can’t express into words how much this story has touched me. Thank you Beth for giving me peace as I grow older and go through challenges that older people face. I will always remember Lizzy and Esther and their unconditional love for each other. Their hearts to help others find love is humbling and remind me of the scripture, “ No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for a friend.”
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The review is my own opinion.
September 28, 2023
Enjoyable Characters, Friendship, Laughter, Romance
I find Amish fiction quite enjoyable and was excited to read Beth Wiseman’s newest book The Amish Matchmakers.
Retired dentist, Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus decided to move to Indiana to be near his only grandchild, Mindy. He has rented a small cottage at the Peony Inn. It is a bed and breakfast run by two Amish sisters, Esther, and Lizzie. They have a reputation for matchmaking. Now it seems they may have another match in mind, unbeknownst to one other. Things may get a little complicated.
I enjoyed reading this book, mostly because of the likable characters. Esther and Lizzie, especially Lizzie, are very different than most characters in Amish fiction. Lizzie has taken a liking to reading romance and true crime novels. She does not hesitate to speak her mind and has become superstitious. Esther is more sensible and down to earth, and tries to rein Lizzie in. Benjamin is a bit of a mystery and he has some secrets he is not ready to share. Ben’s granddaughter Mindy visits him regularly. Following a car mishap, she meets Gabriel who helps around the inn.
The characters are enjoyable and funny. Ben’s not the only mysterious one. It seems that each character has their own secrets they don’t want revealed. Esther and Lizzie are caring towards one another and welcome others into their lives. I liked Mindy and Gabriel’s relationship. They were caring, responsible, and level headed with a little romance.
I like Amish fiction because their world seems a little simpler and less complicated. I enjoyed reading The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. While I don’t fully understand the issues surrounding an Amish person being involved with an Englisch person, I appreciated how that aspect of relationships were approached. I also appreciated that this novel was clean.
I recommend The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. It is a good and enjoyable story with likeable characters. This book will be published October 17, 2023
I would like to thank Zondervan Fiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
I find Amish fiction quite enjoyable and was excited to read Beth Wiseman’s newest book The Amish Matchmakers.
Retired dentist, Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus decided to move to Indiana to be near his only grandchild, Mindy. He has rented a small cottage at the Peony Inn. It is a bed and breakfast run by two Amish sisters, Esther, and Lizzie. They have a reputation for matchmaking. Now it seems they may have another match in mind, unbeknownst to one other. Things may get a little complicated.
I enjoyed reading this book, mostly because of the likable characters. Esther and Lizzie, especially Lizzie, are very different than most characters in Amish fiction. Lizzie has taken a liking to reading romance and true crime novels. She does not hesitate to speak her mind and has become superstitious. Esther is more sensible and down to earth, and tries to rein Lizzie in. Benjamin is a bit of a mystery and he has some secrets he is not ready to share. Ben’s granddaughter Mindy visits him regularly. Following a car mishap, she meets Gabriel who helps around the inn.
The characters are enjoyable and funny. Ben’s not the only mysterious one. It seems that each character has their own secrets they don’t want revealed. Esther and Lizzie are caring towards one another and welcome others into their lives. I liked Mindy and Gabriel’s relationship. They were caring, responsible, and level headed with a little romance.
I like Amish fiction because their world seems a little simpler and less complicated. I enjoyed reading The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. While I don’t fully understand the issues surrounding an Amish person being involved with an Englisch person, I appreciated how that aspect of relationships were approached. I also appreciated that this novel was clean.
I recommend The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. It is a good and enjoyable story with likeable characters. This book will be published October 17, 2023
I would like to thank Zondervan Fiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
October 17, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman
Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie are the town innkeepers—and the town matchmakers. But when a new tenant moves into a guest cottage at their Peony Inn, the sisters are shocked to discover that maybe this time, one of them might finally find a match of her own. Retired dentist Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus has signed a six-month lease at the cottage—and gentle Esther and spirited Lizzie are in a surprising competition for the kind doctor’s affections. Dr. Stoltzfus doesn’t appear to be Amish, but his last name and his mysterious background have the sisters guessing—and open to the possibility of finding love again.
Things really heat up when Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy, comes to visit. Escaping her big-city life in Texas, Mindy has moved to Amish country to be closer to her grandfather and to embrace the simpler life she has longed for. But she’s unprepared for what happens when an attractive young Amish man, who spends time at the inn helping out the widows, runs his lawnmower right into her little red sports car. Sure, Gabriel is cute and funny and nice—but can a romance between an Englisch girl and an Amish boy end well?
As Mindy and Gabriel find themselves thrown together time after time, they forge a friendship and start making matchmaking plans of their own. Which sister would be better for Mindy’s grandfather—Esther or Lizzie? And as the two young people put their energy into playing Cupid, it looks like love and the life they’ve both dreamed of might also be finding them.
Charming Amish romance featuring a later-in-life love triangle
Stand-alone novel, but returning to the world of The Amish Inn series
This is Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie's story.
This is Mindy and Gabriel's story. Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy.
This is Dr. Benjamin's story.
This story has family, faith, mysteries, friendship and more.
If you enjoy Christian fiction and Amish stories you will love this book.
I recommend this book.
The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Beth Wiseman.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was under no obligation to post a review.
Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie are the town innkeepers—and the town matchmakers. But when a new tenant moves into a guest cottage at their Peony Inn, the sisters are shocked to discover that maybe this time, one of them might finally find a match of her own. Retired dentist Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus has signed a six-month lease at the cottage—and gentle Esther and spirited Lizzie are in a surprising competition for the kind doctor’s affections. Dr. Stoltzfus doesn’t appear to be Amish, but his last name and his mysterious background have the sisters guessing—and open to the possibility of finding love again.
Things really heat up when Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy, comes to visit. Escaping her big-city life in Texas, Mindy has moved to Amish country to be closer to her grandfather and to embrace the simpler life she has longed for. But she’s unprepared for what happens when an attractive young Amish man, who spends time at the inn helping out the widows, runs his lawnmower right into her little red sports car. Sure, Gabriel is cute and funny and nice—but can a romance between an Englisch girl and an Amish boy end well?
As Mindy and Gabriel find themselves thrown together time after time, they forge a friendship and start making matchmaking plans of their own. Which sister would be better for Mindy’s grandfather—Esther or Lizzie? And as the two young people put their energy into playing Cupid, it looks like love and the life they’ve both dreamed of might also be finding them.
Charming Amish romance featuring a later-in-life love triangle
Stand-alone novel, but returning to the world of The Amish Inn series
This is Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie's story.
This is Mindy and Gabriel's story. Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy.
This is Dr. Benjamin's story.
This story has family, faith, mysteries, friendship and more.
If you enjoy Christian fiction and Amish stories you will love this book.
I recommend this book.
The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Beth Wiseman.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was under no obligation to post a review.
September 12, 2023
Beth Wiseman has become one of my favorite authors within the Amish fiction genre, and I was looking forward to diving into this one. Such a fun, original idea for a story, and I was quite surprised by just how fast I was able to read through it.
I hadn't actually read the Amish Inn series before picking this one up, but I personally thought it read perfectly as a stand alone, with only a few mentions of occurrences from the previous books. Sisters Esther and Lizzie run the town's beloved Peony Inn, and are known all around for their matchmaking shenanigans. Only at their ages, they never thought they'd end up turning their talents towards finding each other a new love. When a retired dentist named Ben decides to rent one of the cottages on their property, both feel an instant connection with him, but aren't sure where they could see anything possibly going when Ben himself isn't Amish. Things turn even more complicated when Ben's granddaughter Mindy appears to be falling for the sisters' hired hand Gabriel, and happily ever after seems to be an impossibility. However, God always has a plan for His children if we're willing to trust Him, and this story ended up being a wonderful illustration of this truth.
Full of heartwarming moments, shenanigans and silliness what will have every reader laughing out loud, and a lovely reminder of the importance of faith throughout every circumstance we face, The Amish Matchmakers is another wonderful title from best selling author Beth Wiseman, and is truly unlike anything I've ever read before.
A couple of elements truly made this one stand out within the genre, and I loved how the plot twists and turns in ways I never saw coming. If you're a fan of Amish fiction, you're definitely going to want to pick this one up as I can guarantee you're in for a fun surprise.
Final Rating: 4/5.
Thanks so much to Zondervan for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Zondervan) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
I hadn't actually read the Amish Inn series before picking this one up, but I personally thought it read perfectly as a stand alone, with only a few mentions of occurrences from the previous books. Sisters Esther and Lizzie run the town's beloved Peony Inn, and are known all around for their matchmaking shenanigans. Only at their ages, they never thought they'd end up turning their talents towards finding each other a new love. When a retired dentist named Ben decides to rent one of the cottages on their property, both feel an instant connection with him, but aren't sure where they could see anything possibly going when Ben himself isn't Amish. Things turn even more complicated when Ben's granddaughter Mindy appears to be falling for the sisters' hired hand Gabriel, and happily ever after seems to be an impossibility. However, God always has a plan for His children if we're willing to trust Him, and this story ended up being a wonderful illustration of this truth.
Full of heartwarming moments, shenanigans and silliness what will have every reader laughing out loud, and a lovely reminder of the importance of faith throughout every circumstance we face, The Amish Matchmakers is another wonderful title from best selling author Beth Wiseman, and is truly unlike anything I've ever read before.
A couple of elements truly made this one stand out within the genre, and I loved how the plot twists and turns in ways I never saw coming. If you're a fan of Amish fiction, you're definitely going to want to pick this one up as I can guarantee you're in for a fun surprise.
Final Rating: 4/5.
Thanks so much to Zondervan for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Zondervan) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
September 24, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers (Amish Inn)
Beth Wiseman
This is the story of two widowed sisters, Esther and Lizzie. They live in Montgomery, Indiana where they own and manage The Peony Inn. The ladies are well known for their matchmaking skills. A retired dentist, Dr. Benjamin Stolzfus has signed and paid in advance a six-month lease on a small cottage from the ladies. The ladies are very different in personality, Esther is quiet and gentle, more refined while Lizzie is high spirited, speaks her mind. The sisters find themselves in competition for the doctor’s attention. Stolzfus is definitely an Amish sounding name; could the good doctor have Amish in his lineage.
Dr. Stolzfus moves to Montgomery to spend time getting to know his granddaughter, Mindy. While she was raised in Texas, she fell in love with the quiet and peaceful life of Montgomery, Indiana. From the moment Gabriel and Mindy lay eyes on each other the sparks start to fly. Gabriel is Amish and stands true to his faith while Mindy is a Christian but not Amish. What begins as a friendship soon grows into love. But how can an English and an Amish work.
I absolutely love this book. I found myself laughing at some of the antics between Esther and Lizzie. Their rivalry is so cute and their devotion to each other is touching. It is easy to see why the good doctor is drawn to Lizzie, life with her would never be boring. This book breaks the myth that mature adults do not fall in love and that all Amish are alike. I found several things interesting in this tale. I have Amish friends and have learned a lot about being Amish but did not know they do not pray out loud before a meal. The romance between Mindy and Gabriel is very sweet and show Christian values. Kudos to author Beth Wiseman for a well done book with a deep message.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes. My reviews are always my unbiased opinion.
Beth Wiseman
This is the story of two widowed sisters, Esther and Lizzie. They live in Montgomery, Indiana where they own and manage The Peony Inn. The ladies are well known for their matchmaking skills. A retired dentist, Dr. Benjamin Stolzfus has signed and paid in advance a six-month lease on a small cottage from the ladies. The ladies are very different in personality, Esther is quiet and gentle, more refined while Lizzie is high spirited, speaks her mind. The sisters find themselves in competition for the doctor’s attention. Stolzfus is definitely an Amish sounding name; could the good doctor have Amish in his lineage.
Dr. Stolzfus moves to Montgomery to spend time getting to know his granddaughter, Mindy. While she was raised in Texas, she fell in love with the quiet and peaceful life of Montgomery, Indiana. From the moment Gabriel and Mindy lay eyes on each other the sparks start to fly. Gabriel is Amish and stands true to his faith while Mindy is a Christian but not Amish. What begins as a friendship soon grows into love. But how can an English and an Amish work.
I absolutely love this book. I found myself laughing at some of the antics between Esther and Lizzie. Their rivalry is so cute and their devotion to each other is touching. It is easy to see why the good doctor is drawn to Lizzie, life with her would never be boring. This book breaks the myth that mature adults do not fall in love and that all Amish are alike. I found several things interesting in this tale. I have Amish friends and have learned a lot about being Amish but did not know they do not pray out loud before a meal. The romance between Mindy and Gabriel is very sweet and show Christian values. Kudos to author Beth Wiseman for a well done book with a deep message.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes. My reviews are always my unbiased opinion.
April 25, 2023
BLURB: Widowed sisters Esther and Lizzie are the town innkeepers—and the town matchmakers. But when a new tenant moves into a guest cottage at their Peony Inn, the sisters are shocked to discover that maybe this time, one of them might finally find a match of her own. Retired dentist Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus has signed a six-month lease at the cottage—and gentle Esther and spirited Lizzie are in a surprising competition for the kind doctor’s affections. Dr. Stoltzfus doesn’t appear to be Amish, but his last name and his mysterious background have the sisters guessing—and open to the possibility of finding love again.
Things really heat up when Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy, comes to visit. Escaping her big-city life in Texas, Mindy has moved to Amish country to be closer to her grandfather and to embrace the simpler life she has longed for. But she’s unprepared for what happens when an attractive young Amish man, who spends time at the inn helping out the widows, runs his lawnmower right into her little red sports car. Sure, Gabriel is cute and funny and nice—but can a romance between an Englisch girl and an Amish boy end well?
As Mindy and Gabriel find themselves thrown together time after time, they forge a friendship and start making matchmaking plans of their own. Which sister would be better for Mindy’s grandfather—Esther or Lizzie? And as the two young people put their energy into playing Cupid, it looks like love and the life they’ve both dreamed of might also be finding them.
REVIEW: I adore Amish romances and Beth is fast becoming a one-click author for me. This book was no exception. It was such a sweet, faith filled story of love and family, of commitment and friendships and community.
I devoured this in one sitting.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this in return for my honest review.
Things really heat up when Benjamin’s granddaughter, Mindy, comes to visit. Escaping her big-city life in Texas, Mindy has moved to Amish country to be closer to her grandfather and to embrace the simpler life she has longed for. But she’s unprepared for what happens when an attractive young Amish man, who spends time at the inn helping out the widows, runs his lawnmower right into her little red sports car. Sure, Gabriel is cute and funny and nice—but can a romance between an Englisch girl and an Amish boy end well?
As Mindy and Gabriel find themselves thrown together time after time, they forge a friendship and start making matchmaking plans of their own. Which sister would be better for Mindy’s grandfather—Esther or Lizzie? And as the two young people put their energy into playing Cupid, it looks like love and the life they’ve both dreamed of might also be finding them.
REVIEW: I adore Amish romances and Beth is fast becoming a one-click author for me. This book was no exception. It was such a sweet, faith filled story of love and family, of commitment and friendships and community.
I devoured this in one sitting.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this in return for my honest review.
October 13, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers by Beth Wiseman takes us back to the Peony Inn owned by Esther and Lizzie. I just love Esther and Lizzie. They are delightful characters. You never know what Lizzie will do next. The renter of their guest cottage, Dr. Benjamin Stoltzfus (a retired dentist) has Lizzie’s curiosity piqued. There is the tiny problem of Lizzie being afraid to enter the cottage because she believes the former lodger is haunting it. I enjoyed getting to know Ben as well as his granddaughter, Mindy. Mindy appears taken with Lizzie and Esther’s handyman, Gabriel. A relationship between the pair seems impossible since one is Englisch and the other is Amish. Of course, the same can be said for Ben and Lizzie. I laughed often while reading The Amish Matchmakers. Misconceptions, miscommunication, rivalry, and shenanigans provide plenty of humor. Life with Lizzie is never dull. They do say that laughter is good for the soul. There are touching moments as well. I love the closeness between Lizzie and Esther. They are sisters and best friends. If someone truly knows you, you cannot keep a secret from them. I like how faith was incorporated into the story. He has a plan for our lives. We need to put our faith in Him and follow the path He lays out for us. We get to see a beautiful illustration of this truth in The Amish Matchmakers. I appreciated that the author showed that you are never too old to fall in love (I am hoping there is a Mr. Right out there for me). I loved the epilogue which made sure I ended the story with a smile on my face. The Amish Matchmakers has family, friendship, love, and faith. The Amish Matchmakers can be read as a standalone, but you will be missing out on some entertaining stories. The Amish Matchmakers is a lively tale with compassionate sisters, a dashing dentist, a loving granddaughter, a friendly handyman, several secrets, and loads of laughter.
November 26, 2024
Two Amish elderly sisters, Esther and Lizzie, own the Peony Inn and two neighboring cottages which they rent out. The sisters have a reputation in their community as matchmakers, but in this story they turn their skills on each other. They love each other so much that neither wants her sister to be alone or lonely if she passes first. When retired Englisch dentist Ben Stotzfus leases one of the cabins for 6 months, each determines to make a match for her sister, but both widowed women are actually attracted to Ben.
Another part of the plot introduces Ben’s granddaughter Mindy. Ben was semi-estranged from that part of his family, but now that she is grown they have reconnected. Gabriel is an Amish young man who works for the sisters at the inn, mainly when they need outside work done. He and Mindy meet when an accident occurs at Ben’s cottage. A spark flies upon their meeting but they wonder if anything can come of it since Amish and Englisch romances often have bad endings.
As older adults, Ben and Esther have medical issues that they try to keep secret. Lizzie is an energetic, feisty woman who is an avid reader of romances. She has decided that the cottage is haunted by the ghost of a previous tenant even though that concept is not part of Amish beliefs. Esther frequently has to rein Lizzie in, suggesting that she get rid of books on ghosts and serial killers and calling her out on some lies.
Depending on the issue, the antics and interactions of Esther and Lizzie can be serious or humorous, but their actions, although sometimes extreme, are always well-intentioned. The setting centers around Thanksgiving and Christmas giving an Amish holiday air to The Amish Matchmakers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Another part of the plot introduces Ben’s granddaughter Mindy. Ben was semi-estranged from that part of his family, but now that she is grown they have reconnected. Gabriel is an Amish young man who works for the sisters at the inn, mainly when they need outside work done. He and Mindy meet when an accident occurs at Ben’s cottage. A spark flies upon their meeting but they wonder if anything can come of it since Amish and Englisch romances often have bad endings.
As older adults, Ben and Esther have medical issues that they try to keep secret. Lizzie is an energetic, feisty woman who is an avid reader of romances. She has decided that the cottage is haunted by the ghost of a previous tenant even though that concept is not part of Amish beliefs. Esther frequently has to rein Lizzie in, suggesting that she get rid of books on ghosts and serial killers and calling her out on some lies.
Depending on the issue, the antics and interactions of Esther and Lizzie can be serious or humorous, but their actions, although sometimes extreme, are always well-intentioned. The setting centers around Thanksgiving and Christmas giving an Amish holiday air to The Amish Matchmakers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 21, 2023
This was such a fun read! We get to experience love and romance in two different couples and age ranges. Solve a few mysteries. And fall in love with a wonderful array of characters.
I have to say that I can't choose just one character to say was my favorite. I loved Mindy but I also really adored Lizzy and Esther. Lizzy just has so much spunk and vivacity for someone her age! And Esther is the one that everyone would love to have for a grandma.
Maybe I should start with a bit more about the story.
Lizzy and Esther are both widows. They're also sisters. They run a bed and breakfast type place. Oh, and they're Amish.
They rent out their cottage to a retired dentist named Ben. His last name is definitely an Amish one but he's not Amish. His granddaughter lives in the area and he's staying for six months to be closer to her. Did I mention the cottage doesn't have electricity and Lizzy swears it's haunted by a ghost of a man named Gus?
Have I got you hooked yet?
I don't want to spoil it all but there are health challenges, faith challenges, trust challenges, and some good old-fashioned laughs to be had along the way while you read this book. You're going to love it. Trust me. It was amazing and definitely one I would read again.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I have to say that I can't choose just one character to say was my favorite. I loved Mindy but I also really adored Lizzy and Esther. Lizzy just has so much spunk and vivacity for someone her age! And Esther is the one that everyone would love to have for a grandma.
Maybe I should start with a bit more about the story.
Lizzy and Esther are both widows. They're also sisters. They run a bed and breakfast type place. Oh, and they're Amish.
They rent out their cottage to a retired dentist named Ben. His last name is definitely an Amish one but he's not Amish. His granddaughter lives in the area and he's staying for six months to be closer to her. Did I mention the cottage doesn't have electricity and Lizzy swears it's haunted by a ghost of a man named Gus?
Have I got you hooked yet?
I don't want to spoil it all but there are health challenges, faith challenges, trust challenges, and some good old-fashioned laughs to be had along the way while you read this book. You're going to love it. Trust me. It was amazing and definitely one I would read again.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
July 27, 2023
The Amish Matchmakers by bestselling and award-winning author Beth Wiseman is a Christian Amish fiction that everyone will enjoy. There are non-Amish people sprinkled in with the Amish. It is part of The Amish Inn Series, but most definitely may be read as a stand-alone. There is no way I can express how much I adored this captivating book.
Amish sisters, Lizzy and Esther,own and operate The Amish Inn. They live there together and are as different as night and day. A retired, widower named Ben rents out their small cabin. Both women are smitten by the good looking older man. He has come to be near his beloved granddaughter.
I found so much to love about this book set in a small Southern Indiana Amish Community. The characters are so personable that I want them to be my friends. They are believable and relatable. Descriptions made me feel like I was a fly on the wall watching things happen. At times I wanted to offer the characters my advice because I was so invested in them and their stories.
This is a beautiful tale of family, friends, hope, health, trusting God, and love. The entire story is crafted exquisitely and tied together with bits of scripture and inspiration. There are twists, superstitions, mysteries, emotional moments, and laughs. I would love to see this made into a movie. It is brilliantly written!
I highly recommend this page-turning, captivating book. Be forewarned, once you begin reading it do not expect to stop until it is finished. Yes, it is that good! I give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
Amish sisters, Lizzy and Esther,own and operate The Amish Inn. They live there together and are as different as night and day. A retired, widower named Ben rents out their small cabin. Both women are smitten by the good looking older man. He has come to be near his beloved granddaughter.
I found so much to love about this book set in a small Southern Indiana Amish Community. The characters are so personable that I want them to be my friends. They are believable and relatable. Descriptions made me feel like I was a fly on the wall watching things happen. At times I wanted to offer the characters my advice because I was so invested in them and their stories.
This is a beautiful tale of family, friends, hope, health, trusting God, and love. The entire story is crafted exquisitely and tied together with bits of scripture and inspiration. There are twists, superstitions, mysteries, emotional moments, and laughs. I would love to see this made into a movie. It is brilliantly written!
I highly recommend this page-turning, captivating book. Be forewarned, once you begin reading it do not expect to stop until it is finished. Yes, it is that good! I give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
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