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The Quakers of New Garden: Four-in-One Collection
The Quakers of New Garden, a Four-in-one collection by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Ann E. Schrock, Claire Sanders & Susette Williams.
I very much enjoyed these three stories. Each was different, but all were compelling in their own way.
The First, New Garden's Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, is the story of Ruth and Josiah, an engaged couple and the trials, tribulations, heartache that come from how we all can misunderstand the actions of another. Without asking for an explanation (or not being willing to listen to one) Ruth sets the stage for what is to come.
New Garden's Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock was next, with it's story of Deborah, a Quaker involved with the underground railroad, and Nathaniel, a slave hunter who has come a far piece from his own Quaker roots. Can he change? Can Deborah learn to trust him?
New Garden's Inspiration By Claire Sanders follows Leah Wall as her Uncle, who's family took her in after her parents died, arranges a marriage between Leah and a farmer, Caleb Whitaker, who was widowed, and now is joining the Civil war and needs a new wife to care for his family while he is gone. Leah wants a true marriage. What does Caleb expect from his new wife? Caleb is wounded in the war and Leah must care for him. Will this be enough for them to build a true marriage relationship?
New Gardens Conversion by Susette Williams Beginings with Catherine taking care of a young man who was shot. Through him she meets Jaidon Taylor, a young Lawyer who volunteers at a youth center in a bad part of the city. Catherine finds herself volunteering at the same center. As their relationship becomes closer, she confides to him her promise to her late father, that she would never marry a man who wasn't a Quaker. What will they do when her church refuses to let Jaidon join?
I very much enjoyed these three stories. Each was different, but all were compelling in their own way.
The First, New Garden's Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, is the story of Ruth and Josiah, an engaged couple and the trials, tribulations, heartache that come from how we all can misunderstand the actions of another. Without asking for an explanation (or not being willing to listen to one) Ruth sets the stage for what is to come.
New Garden's Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock was next, with it's story of Deborah, a Quaker involved with the underground railroad, and Nathaniel, a slave hunter who has come a far piece from his own Quaker roots. Can he change? Can Deborah learn to trust him?
New Garden's Inspiration By Claire Sanders follows Leah Wall as her Uncle, who's family took her in after her parents died, arranges a marriage between Leah and a farmer, Caleb Whitaker, who was widowed, and now is joining the Civil war and needs a new wife to care for his family while he is gone. Leah wants a true marriage. What does Caleb expect from his new wife? Caleb is wounded in the war and Leah must care for him. Will this be enough for them to build a true marriage relationship?
New Gardens Conversion by Susette Williams Beginings with Catherine taking care of a young man who was shot. Through him she meets Jaidon Taylor, a young Lawyer who volunteers at a youth center in a bad part of the city. Catherine finds herself volunteering at the same center. As their relationship becomes closer, she confides to him her promise to her late father, that she would never marry a man who wasn't a Quaker. What will they do when her church refuses to let Jaidon join?
350 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
1 person is currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Claire Sanders
31 books24 followersI love to write sweet romance - both historical and contemporary. Check out my website:
www.clairesandersbooks.com
www.clairesandersbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 1, 2020
Some of the stories in this were well written, but the last annoyed me.
I wanted to something “fun” so I choose this book. This book didn’t explain things very well and it fell back on common misperceptions of Friends.
I wanted to something “fun” so I choose this book. This book didn’t explain things very well and it fell back on common misperceptions of Friends.
July 3, 2012
It took me a little while to get accustomed to "thee" and "thy" but it eventually became a nice rhythm. Each story had a different tilt them and I enjoyed their differences and their similarities.
I thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read ahead of my friends.
I thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read ahead of my friends.
June 17, 2017
Sweet inspirational romances focused on the Quakers of today and yesteryear!
New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
I enjoyed this book immensely! I haven't read very many Quaker books but I love the simple life and the focus on God. It seems very similar to the Amish except for the time period! Although I don't know much really about either faith. Jennifer is a new author to me, but I'll be sure to check out her other books! I'm glad they have a Happy Ever After, but it sure didn't end like I expected! That's probably a good thing, I like authors to keep me guessing and to not be too predictable!! My favorite part was the inclusion of the historical James and Dolley Madison!! I love my fiction to have historical facts mixed in!
New Garden’s Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock
This was a wonderful book! I loved the connection to the previous couple in Jennifer's book! I'm learning a lot more about the Quaker faith and their lifestyle! I wish there were some pictures of the clothing for this time period I could refer to! I especially loved hope the story was about redemption and the power of God's sovereignty!! Ann is also a new author to me although I'm looking forward to reading her selection in The American Dream Romance Collection!!
New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders
I read this selection in another collection. Here's a copy of my review from Where The Heart Is Romance Collection.
Oh, Claire! I could just kiss you for writing such an incredible book! I cried buckets of tears when Caleb went after Leah on the Minister’s horse! I have often felt like Leah, even though I’ve been married for 20 years, my husband has never complimented my looks! He enjoys many things with me and about me, but my deepest longing is to hear him tell me that I’m beautiful! Thank you! I know I’m not the only one who needs to read this!
New Garden’s Conversion by Susette Williams
This is a beautiful story of living for God and loving him through service to others! I was wonderfully surprised that this was a contemporary romance! I loved the story! I have enjoyed several or Susette's books before but I think this is my favorite! It has more depth to the characters and the whole youth group and hospital scenes feel more real and tangible! Excellent way to end this collection!!
New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
I enjoyed this book immensely! I haven't read very many Quaker books but I love the simple life and the focus on God. It seems very similar to the Amish except for the time period! Although I don't know much really about either faith. Jennifer is a new author to me, but I'll be sure to check out her other books! I'm glad they have a Happy Ever After, but it sure didn't end like I expected! That's probably a good thing, I like authors to keep me guessing and to not be too predictable!! My favorite part was the inclusion of the historical James and Dolley Madison!! I love my fiction to have historical facts mixed in!
New Garden’s Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock
This was a wonderful book! I loved the connection to the previous couple in Jennifer's book! I'm learning a lot more about the Quaker faith and their lifestyle! I wish there were some pictures of the clothing for this time period I could refer to! I especially loved hope the story was about redemption and the power of God's sovereignty!! Ann is also a new author to me although I'm looking forward to reading her selection in The American Dream Romance Collection!!
New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders
I read this selection in another collection. Here's a copy of my review from Where The Heart Is Romance Collection.
Oh, Claire! I could just kiss you for writing such an incredible book! I cried buckets of tears when Caleb went after Leah on the Minister’s horse! I have often felt like Leah, even though I’ve been married for 20 years, my husband has never complimented my looks! He enjoys many things with me and about me, but my deepest longing is to hear him tell me that I’m beautiful! Thank you! I know I’m not the only one who needs to read this!
New Garden’s Conversion by Susette Williams
This is a beautiful story of living for God and loving him through service to others! I was wonderfully surprised that this was a contemporary romance! I loved the story! I have enjoyed several or Susette's books before but I think this is my favorite! It has more depth to the characters and the whole youth group and hospital scenes feel more real and tangible! Excellent way to end this collection!!
January 28, 2019
Cliches and stereotypes. That said, I want to give each and every one of these four authors a shout-out for working within the restraints I imagine they were given! As Christian authors, they all had to include romance and marriage (but not sex--although alluded to in the third story) and talk about Quakerism (but with an evangelical slant)--not easy and it made for kind of a weird mash-up of thoughts at times: Quakerism as a "purer" religion and then in the last story, mean Quakers that send the heroine back to her boyfriend's megachurch! Each one of the settings was also rather surreal, but at the same time...interesting. Also, noted that the fourth author praises her copyeditor but there is a glaring error when she talks about the age of the protagonist when her father dies: in one place 14, in another, 12. If you didn't bother to add a lot of historical detail, or even realism, you could at least fix mistakes like this that make me a bit crazy!
December 4, 2024
I really enjoyed the first two stories but I didn’t care much for the second two.
June 11, 2012
Welcome to the early days of Quakers in Indiana! One of the things I enjoyed about this 4-in-1 collection of novellas was how this religious group fit into the politics of their times. I’m not sure this was an intentional theme running through but, to me, it helped set the stage.
‘Plain’ language consists of a certain rhythm of speaking. Quakers use a lot of thees and thous, and refer to each other as Friend Joseph or whatever. At times I found the dialect a bit overwhelming. I think it’s hard to be true to speech patterns without overdoing it.
The Quakers of New Garden is a collection of four stories centering around various generations of the Wall family starting in 1808 in Greensborough, NC, with their assistance in birthing a new city and tracing their migration to the non-slave state of Indiana. There, they face new struggles in their involvement with the underground railroad leading up to the Civil War, and cling to the plain ways of tradition and faith for 200 years until present day when a new generation is tempted to abandon plainness and step out in faith to a new life and a new love.
In the first novella, “New Garden’s Hope” by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Ruth Payne is stunned and cannot understand why Josiah Wall would ask to postpone their wedding date. . .for the second time. Heartbroken, she cancels their engagement. Obviously he does not love her as much as she loves him. Josiah is both a perfectionist and a political activist. He wants the house he’s built for Ruth to be furnished before they wed, and a lot of his time is taken up with standing against Governor James Madison’s campaign–a man who happens to be married to Ruth’s aunt.
What is the hope that will make Ruth and Josiah see that their love is strong enough, no matter what?
The second novella, “New Garden’s Crossroads,” is by debut author Ann E. Schrock. It centers around the famous Levi Coffin House in Newport, Indiana, which was one of the main stations on the Underground Railway for runaway slaves seeking freedom. Ann chose to pit a young female relative of the Coffins, Deborah Wall, against a bounty hunter who’d left his Quaker roots far behind. When the bounty hunter tries to cross a roaring creek behind escaping slaves and is tossed from his horse, the Coffin family takes him in and sees to his recovery. Deborah, quite frankly, would rather care for the horse, but as Nathaniel Fox softens, so does her heart.
As the house sits at a crossroads, so do Deborah and Nathaniel’s hearts. Is he willing to return to the Quaker way? And dare she leave it, if he doesn’t?
In “New Garden’s Hope,” author Claire Sanders introduces us to orphaned Leah Wall, who, at 24, is long on the shelf. Her uncle has spared no love for her and informs her that he’s agreed to her marriage to Caleb Whitaker, a nonQuaker man she’s never met. Widowed, he needs a wife to care for his two children while he returns to his regiment in the Civil War. But Leah didn’t know he’d planned for her to be a wife in name only. Caleb leaves for the war the morning after their wedding, while Leah struggles to make friends with his children and establish her bee hives on the new property.
When he’s injured, Leah has her chance to show him that she’s ready for love. But is Caleb? Are his children?
The final story in the collection, “New Garden’s Conversion,” is a contemporary novella. Author Susette Williams introduces us to Catherine Wall, the nurse on duty when D-Dog, a local gang member, is brought into the hospital with gunshot wounds. There she meets Jaidon Taylor, a Christian guy who runs an outreach program into gangland. Catherine is intrigued by Jaidon’s mission and soon becomes a regular volunteer at the outreach program. It’s a great match for a Quaker, as they’re against violence in any way. If only her grandfather hadn’t elicited a promise from her that she’d marry within the Quaker faith, she’d be tempted to take Jaidon’s growing affection more seriously. It’s not until gang activity hits closer to home that Catherine and Jaidon see things more clearly.
I’ve been interested in the Quakers since I read a Reader’s Digest condensed version of I Take Thee, Serenity many years ago. I enjoyed this collection of novellas quite a lot, especially seeing how the sect interacted with various turning points in American history.
‘Plain’ language consists of a certain rhythm of speaking. Quakers use a lot of thees and thous, and refer to each other as Friend Joseph or whatever. At times I found the dialect a bit overwhelming. I think it’s hard to be true to speech patterns without overdoing it.
The Quakers of New Garden is a collection of four stories centering around various generations of the Wall family starting in 1808 in Greensborough, NC, with their assistance in birthing a new city and tracing their migration to the non-slave state of Indiana. There, they face new struggles in their involvement with the underground railroad leading up to the Civil War, and cling to the plain ways of tradition and faith for 200 years until present day when a new generation is tempted to abandon plainness and step out in faith to a new life and a new love.
In the first novella, “New Garden’s Hope” by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Ruth Payne is stunned and cannot understand why Josiah Wall would ask to postpone their wedding date. . .for the second time. Heartbroken, she cancels their engagement. Obviously he does not love her as much as she loves him. Josiah is both a perfectionist and a political activist. He wants the house he’s built for Ruth to be furnished before they wed, and a lot of his time is taken up with standing against Governor James Madison’s campaign–a man who happens to be married to Ruth’s aunt.
What is the hope that will make Ruth and Josiah see that their love is strong enough, no matter what?
The second novella, “New Garden’s Crossroads,” is by debut author Ann E. Schrock. It centers around the famous Levi Coffin House in Newport, Indiana, which was one of the main stations on the Underground Railway for runaway slaves seeking freedom. Ann chose to pit a young female relative of the Coffins, Deborah Wall, against a bounty hunter who’d left his Quaker roots far behind. When the bounty hunter tries to cross a roaring creek behind escaping slaves and is tossed from his horse, the Coffin family takes him in and sees to his recovery. Deborah, quite frankly, would rather care for the horse, but as Nathaniel Fox softens, so does her heart.
As the house sits at a crossroads, so do Deborah and Nathaniel’s hearts. Is he willing to return to the Quaker way? And dare she leave it, if he doesn’t?
In “New Garden’s Hope,” author Claire Sanders introduces us to orphaned Leah Wall, who, at 24, is long on the shelf. Her uncle has spared no love for her and informs her that he’s agreed to her marriage to Caleb Whitaker, a nonQuaker man she’s never met. Widowed, he needs a wife to care for his two children while he returns to his regiment in the Civil War. But Leah didn’t know he’d planned for her to be a wife in name only. Caleb leaves for the war the morning after their wedding, while Leah struggles to make friends with his children and establish her bee hives on the new property.
When he’s injured, Leah has her chance to show him that she’s ready for love. But is Caleb? Are his children?
The final story in the collection, “New Garden’s Conversion,” is a contemporary novella. Author Susette Williams introduces us to Catherine Wall, the nurse on duty when D-Dog, a local gang member, is brought into the hospital with gunshot wounds. There she meets Jaidon Taylor, a Christian guy who runs an outreach program into gangland. Catherine is intrigued by Jaidon’s mission and soon becomes a regular volunteer at the outreach program. It’s a great match for a Quaker, as they’re against violence in any way. If only her grandfather hadn’t elicited a promise from her that she’d marry within the Quaker faith, she’d be tempted to take Jaidon’s growing affection more seriously. It’s not until gang activity hits closer to home that Catherine and Jaidon see things more clearly.
I’ve been interested in the Quakers since I read a Reader’s Digest condensed version of I Take Thee, Serenity many years ago. I enjoyed this collection of novellas quite a lot, especially seeing how the sect interacted with various turning points in American history.
January 17, 2012
From The Publisher
New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
After Josiah Wall postpones their wedding a second time, Ruth Payne refuses to reset their wedding date. But everything Josiah has worked for means nothing without Ruth. He sets out to win her back, but it seems that each attempt is thwarted by disaster. Will their love and faith overcome their differences, or could this be the end he’s always feared?
New Garden’s Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock
Deborah Wall is thrilled to work for the Coffins in their home, a hub of the Underground Railroad. Nathaniel Fox has been dismissed from the Society of Friends and becomes a bounty hunter for runaway slaves. When an injury takes him to the Coffins’ house, he tries Deborah’s patience and challenges her beliefs. But, after accepting Christ and revealing his love for Deborah, will Nathaniel give up his worldly ways to join her?
New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders
As an unwanted, poor relation, Leah Wall is surprised to discover that her Quaker uncle has arranged a marriage between her and widowed Caleb Whitaker. With little choice, Leah agrees to the marriage and finds herself a wife in name only, caring for Caleb’s children while he serves in the Union Army. When the two begin to exchange letters, will it be enough to make a marriage of convenience flourish into a marriage of love?
New Garden’s Conversion by Susette Williams
Christian Jaidon Taylor is determined to plead his case with Quaker Catherine Wall and convince her that they are not as different as she thinks. Catherine promised her father that she would uphold the family tradition of marrying within their faith. As Jaidon begins to rethink his own spiritual walk in his endeavor to find love, Catherine tries to show him why their relationship would never work. But are they really that different?
My Review
This book spans generations of the Wall family, rooted in their Quaker beliefs. The four short stories begin near the early 1800’s and end with the present day. It was interesting to learn about the ways of the Quakers, since I knew nothing about them. I enjoyed reading about their involvement in the Underground Railroad, although it plays a minor role in the most of the stories.
All four stories are about romantic relationships and how the characters deal with them. The main characters are grounded in their religious beliefs. My favorite story was New Garden’s Inspiration. Leah Wall thought she would always be single because she felt so plain. She was elated to marry, even if it was one of convenience.
At first it was hard to get adjust to “thee” that was used for “you” in the first three stories. I found myself wishing the authors let the reader know how the characters in the 3rd and 4th story were related to the previous stories’ characters. We only know they are related by their last name of Wall. The publisher’s description for New Garden’s Inspiration is not quite correct. While I did wonder if the marriage of convenience would flourish into a marriage of love, it was not because of letters. Caleb wrote to Leah but she never returned a letter to him. Overall, this set of inspirational short stories was enjoyable to read. I would recommend this book for those whose enjoy romance novels.
I received a free copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for my honest opinion.
New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
After Josiah Wall postpones their wedding a second time, Ruth Payne refuses to reset their wedding date. But everything Josiah has worked for means nothing without Ruth. He sets out to win her back, but it seems that each attempt is thwarted by disaster. Will their love and faith overcome their differences, or could this be the end he’s always feared?
New Garden’s Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock
Deborah Wall is thrilled to work for the Coffins in their home, a hub of the Underground Railroad. Nathaniel Fox has been dismissed from the Society of Friends and becomes a bounty hunter for runaway slaves. When an injury takes him to the Coffins’ house, he tries Deborah’s patience and challenges her beliefs. But, after accepting Christ and revealing his love for Deborah, will Nathaniel give up his worldly ways to join her?
New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders
As an unwanted, poor relation, Leah Wall is surprised to discover that her Quaker uncle has arranged a marriage between her and widowed Caleb Whitaker. With little choice, Leah agrees to the marriage and finds herself a wife in name only, caring for Caleb’s children while he serves in the Union Army. When the two begin to exchange letters, will it be enough to make a marriage of convenience flourish into a marriage of love?
New Garden’s Conversion by Susette Williams
Christian Jaidon Taylor is determined to plead his case with Quaker Catherine Wall and convince her that they are not as different as she thinks. Catherine promised her father that she would uphold the family tradition of marrying within their faith. As Jaidon begins to rethink his own spiritual walk in his endeavor to find love, Catherine tries to show him why their relationship would never work. But are they really that different?
My Review
This book spans generations of the Wall family, rooted in their Quaker beliefs. The four short stories begin near the early 1800’s and end with the present day. It was interesting to learn about the ways of the Quakers, since I knew nothing about them. I enjoyed reading about their involvement in the Underground Railroad, although it plays a minor role in the most of the stories.
All four stories are about romantic relationships and how the characters deal with them. The main characters are grounded in their religious beliefs. My favorite story was New Garden’s Inspiration. Leah Wall thought she would always be single because she felt so plain. She was elated to marry, even if it was one of convenience.
At first it was hard to get adjust to “thee” that was used for “you” in the first three stories. I found myself wishing the authors let the reader know how the characters in the 3rd and 4th story were related to the previous stories’ characters. We only know they are related by their last name of Wall. The publisher’s description for New Garden’s Inspiration is not quite correct. While I did wonder if the marriage of convenience would flourish into a marriage of love, it was not because of letters. Caleb wrote to Leah but she never returned a letter to him. Overall, this set of inspirational short stories was enjoyable to read. I would recommend this book for those whose enjoy romance novels.
I received a free copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for my honest opinion.
August 24, 2016
The stories cover four generations of Quaker women from New Garden, Indiana, and provided interesting insight into their beliefs, as each novella shows how the Society of Friends react to the situations of the day. I don’t know much about the Quakers beyond their pacifism and opposition to slavery, and these stories brought out both these beliefs well, and gave me a better understanding of the beliefs of this group.
In New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Josiah Wall and Ruth Payne are engaged, but Josiah upsets Ruth by postponing the wedding - again. Ruth breaks their engagement, believing that if Josiah isn't prepared to marry her when he promised that he doesn't love her enough. Josiah has to decide where his priorities lie – with Ruth, or with his own interests (specifically, campaigning on behalf of the Federalist candidate in the 1808 US Presidential Election).
At one point, on of the characters says of the election “if the campaigns were not over and the votes cast. In a few months, we’ll know the results”. This delay between the end of polling and the final result being known was an interesting point I had never thought of, as in modern politics we almost always know the result the day the polls close, or a day after at the latest.
The second story, New Garden’s crossroads by Ann E. Schrock, follows Deborah, daughter of Josiah Wall, who is a furniture maker and abolitionist in Indiana. Nathaniel Fox is a slave hunter, a long way from his own Quaker roots. An accident brings them together, and they develop feelings for each other but Nathaniel must recommit to the Society of Friends before they could marry as Deborah will not leave the faith. I liked Nathaniel, because his apparent worldliness underpinned a pragmatic realism that I felt the Quakers perhaps lacked: “Plain or lofty speech, plain dress or not, makes no difference to me.” He took another deep breath. “I’ve been out in the world and am not convinced that a man can be completely non-violent.”
In New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders, takes place during the War Between the States (the US Civil War), as the Quakers must decide if they will remain true to their non violent beliefs, or if they will fight to end slavery. Leah Wall marries widower Caleb Whitaker in order to care for his two children while he is away serving in the Union army in the war. This was a marriage of convenience story with a difference, in that Leah thought it was going to be a real marriage, so works to make it one.
The final story was my favourite, New Garden's Crossroads by Susette Williams. Set in the present day, it introduces Catherine Wall, a nurse who starts volunteering at a local youth centre after she meets the director, Jaidon Taylor, at a gang shooting. However, Jaidon is not a Quaker, so to marry him would mean leaving her church. I felt that this story gave a solid gospel message and showed the power of God to change lives. I would be interested in reading more about the origins and practices of the Quakers (officially known as the Society of Friends), perhaps examining some of the companies they founded.
Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
In New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Josiah Wall and Ruth Payne are engaged, but Josiah upsets Ruth by postponing the wedding - again. Ruth breaks their engagement, believing that if Josiah isn't prepared to marry her when he promised that he doesn't love her enough. Josiah has to decide where his priorities lie – with Ruth, or with his own interests (specifically, campaigning on behalf of the Federalist candidate in the 1808 US Presidential Election).
At one point, on of the characters says of the election “if the campaigns were not over and the votes cast. In a few months, we’ll know the results”. This delay between the end of polling and the final result being known was an interesting point I had never thought of, as in modern politics we almost always know the result the day the polls close, or a day after at the latest.
The second story, New Garden’s crossroads by Ann E. Schrock, follows Deborah, daughter of Josiah Wall, who is a furniture maker and abolitionist in Indiana. Nathaniel Fox is a slave hunter, a long way from his own Quaker roots. An accident brings them together, and they develop feelings for each other but Nathaniel must recommit to the Society of Friends before they could marry as Deborah will not leave the faith. I liked Nathaniel, because his apparent worldliness underpinned a pragmatic realism that I felt the Quakers perhaps lacked: “Plain or lofty speech, plain dress or not, makes no difference to me.” He took another deep breath. “I’ve been out in the world and am not convinced that a man can be completely non-violent.”
In New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders, takes place during the War Between the States (the US Civil War), as the Quakers must decide if they will remain true to their non violent beliefs, or if they will fight to end slavery. Leah Wall marries widower Caleb Whitaker in order to care for his two children while he is away serving in the Union army in the war. This was a marriage of convenience story with a difference, in that Leah thought it was going to be a real marriage, so works to make it one.
The final story was my favourite, New Garden's Crossroads by Susette Williams. Set in the present day, it introduces Catherine Wall, a nurse who starts volunteering at a local youth centre after she meets the director, Jaidon Taylor, at a gang shooting. However, Jaidon is not a Quaker, so to marry him would mean leaving her church. I felt that this story gave a solid gospel message and showed the power of God to change lives. I would be interested in reading more about the origins and practices of the Quakers (officially known as the Society of Friends), perhaps examining some of the companies they founded.
Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
July 9, 2012
quakers of new garden by Claire Sanders, Ann E. Schrock, Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Susette Williams
4 Stars Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor In the first story Ruth Payne fiance Josiah want to postpone their wedding for the second time. Ruth is hurt that Josiah does not want to marry her. Josiah is a Federalist and wants to put off the wedding till the election. Ruth thinks that Josiah really doesn't love her she is just a habit. Josiah can't believe Ruth won't marry him. Ruth's father cousin comes to visit with her husband. Molly Madison and James Madison. Crossroads by Ann E Schrock Slavers are chasing some runaway slaves. It was storming most turned back but one slaver wanted to check and make sure the slaves were not dying in the stream but he got washed over the bridge and hurt himself. He was brought into the house saying all are welcome. Nathaniel does not know if he can rejoin the society again and turn the other cheek. He does not want to join for the wrong reason. Deborah has changed her opinion of Nathaniel but she does want to marry in her faith. Inspiration by Claire Sanders Leah is about to be married to Caleb and minutes before the wedding meets him for the first time. Leah is hopeful to be finally wed and to have a family. Caleb is going to fight in the civil war and needs someone to care for his two kids his aunt has been helping with that but her health is slowing down. Caleb was not planning on getting married but Leah's Uncle says that if he marries her she would be a good mother for his kids. Leah is shocked to find out that it is to be a name only marriage right before her wedding night. After crying herself to sleep she wakes to find her groom already gone. Conversion by Susette williams Conversion by Susette Williams Jaidon Taylor is a lawyer but he gives a lot of time to a youth group in a bad part of town. He comes to the hospital when a young man is shot that he is trying to help and meets nurse Catherine Wall. Catherine decide to go help at the youth center after hearing about it from a young man she is nursing. Jaidon asks her out right away even when she tells him that she won't date marry out of her church. Jaidon invites her to his church and agrees to go to hers to see what each other belives. Shows good amd some not so good points about both as they try and help the youth. I liked all four stories but they were too short for me. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. At the back of the ebook is a survey questions that I thought I would answer here for me. 1, Did you enjoy reading the Quakers of New Garden? yes I did and would read more books like this. What influence me to buy this book. I did not buy but got it free because It looked good to read. and it was. 3. which is favorite book? I guess Inspiration was my favorite. 4 age 49 5 hours read each week? I can't count that high. I read between 7-14 books a week usually. Some of them I do listen to them on my kindle too. rhonda I am disabled and cant do a lot and reading helps me to cope with pain and uplifts me. Fairview UT 04/01/2012 PUB Barbour Publishing, Inc.
4 Stars Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor In the first story Ruth Payne fiance Josiah want to postpone their wedding for the second time. Ruth is hurt that Josiah does not want to marry her. Josiah is a Federalist and wants to put off the wedding till the election. Ruth thinks that Josiah really doesn't love her she is just a habit. Josiah can't believe Ruth won't marry him. Ruth's father cousin comes to visit with her husband. Molly Madison and James Madison. Crossroads by Ann E Schrock Slavers are chasing some runaway slaves. It was storming most turned back but one slaver wanted to check and make sure the slaves were not dying in the stream but he got washed over the bridge and hurt himself. He was brought into the house saying all are welcome. Nathaniel does not know if he can rejoin the society again and turn the other cheek. He does not want to join for the wrong reason. Deborah has changed her opinion of Nathaniel but she does want to marry in her faith. Inspiration by Claire Sanders Leah is about to be married to Caleb and minutes before the wedding meets him for the first time. Leah is hopeful to be finally wed and to have a family. Caleb is going to fight in the civil war and needs someone to care for his two kids his aunt has been helping with that but her health is slowing down. Caleb was not planning on getting married but Leah's Uncle says that if he marries her she would be a good mother for his kids. Leah is shocked to find out that it is to be a name only marriage right before her wedding night. After crying herself to sleep she wakes to find her groom already gone. Conversion by Susette williams Conversion by Susette Williams Jaidon Taylor is a lawyer but he gives a lot of time to a youth group in a bad part of town. He comes to the hospital when a young man is shot that he is trying to help and meets nurse Catherine Wall. Catherine decide to go help at the youth center after hearing about it from a young man she is nursing. Jaidon asks her out right away even when she tells him that she won't date marry out of her church. Jaidon invites her to his church and agrees to go to hers to see what each other belives. Shows good amd some not so good points about both as they try and help the youth. I liked all four stories but they were too short for me. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. At the back of the ebook is a survey questions that I thought I would answer here for me. 1, Did you enjoy reading the Quakers of New Garden? yes I did and would read more books like this. What influence me to buy this book. I did not buy but got it free because It looked good to read. and it was. 3. which is favorite book? I guess Inspiration was my favorite. 4 age 49 5 hours read each week? I can't count that high. I read between 7-14 books a week usually. Some of them I do listen to them on my kindle too. rhonda I am disabled and cant do a lot and reading helps me to cope with pain and uplifts me. Fairview UT 04/01/2012 PUB Barbour Publishing, Inc.
June 19, 2012
Title: THE QUAKERS OF NEW GARDEN
Authors: Claire Sanders, Ann E. Schrock, Jennifer Hudson Taylor and Susette William6s
Publisher: Barbour Books
April 2012
ISBN: 978-1-61626-643-1
Genre: Inspirational/Quaker romance/mixed time periods
Love--plain and simple--finds a home in Indiana
New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor—Josiah Wall has postponed his wedding to Ruth Payne one too many times. Now, Ruth has called off their engagement and Josiah is crushed, especially when he learns she’s blabbing it around town that they broke up. Josiah fully intends to marry Ruth, he just wanted to wait until after the election. But now, he sets out to win her back, but each attempt is thwarted by disaster. Could this broken engagement really be the end?
New Garden’s Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock—Deborah Wall is thrilled when she lands a position working for a hub of the Underground Railroad. Nathaniel Fox has left the Society of Friends and now works as a bounty hunter. When an injury takes him to the Coffin’s house where Deborah works, he and Deborah are on each other’s last nerve. Will Nathaniel be able to give up his ways to join Deborah in hers?
New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders—Leah Wall is an unwanted, poor relation, and she’s stunned and horrified to discover her uncle has arranged a marriage between her and widowed Caleb Whitaker. Leah finds herself a wife in name only, caring for Caleb’s children while he fights for the Union Army. If he comes home from the war, can she hope for more?
New Garden’s Conversion by Susette Williams—Jaidon Taylor is instantly attracted to beautiful Catherine Wall, but she thwarts all his attempts to get close because she is a Quaker and he is not. Jaidon is determined to show Catherine they aren’t as different as she believes. As they work together with inner city kids, will Jaidon succeed in his mission? Or are they really as different as Catherine believes?
THE QUAKERS OF NEW GARDEN is a collection of four romances, three set in historical time periods, and one in contemporary times. I enjoyed reading all four stories, but did stumble over the “thee’s” used in the first three for awhile. The fourth story, being a contemporary had the Quakers dressed in modern clothes and using modern language, making the characters easy for reader to identify with. All four stories are very well developed and interesting and readers interested in learning about the Quakers while devouring a well-told romance (or four) will want to read this book. All four of the stories are well written with realistic characters and an interesting story line. Recommended. $7.99. 350 pages. 4.5 stars.
Authors: Claire Sanders, Ann E. Schrock, Jennifer Hudson Taylor and Susette William6s
Publisher: Barbour Books
April 2012
ISBN: 978-1-61626-643-1
Genre: Inspirational/Quaker romance/mixed time periods
Love--plain and simple--finds a home in Indiana
New Garden’s Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor—Josiah Wall has postponed his wedding to Ruth Payne one too many times. Now, Ruth has called off their engagement and Josiah is crushed, especially when he learns she’s blabbing it around town that they broke up. Josiah fully intends to marry Ruth, he just wanted to wait until after the election. But now, he sets out to win her back, but each attempt is thwarted by disaster. Could this broken engagement really be the end?
New Garden’s Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock—Deborah Wall is thrilled when she lands a position working for a hub of the Underground Railroad. Nathaniel Fox has left the Society of Friends and now works as a bounty hunter. When an injury takes him to the Coffin’s house where Deborah works, he and Deborah are on each other’s last nerve. Will Nathaniel be able to give up his ways to join Deborah in hers?
New Garden’s Inspiration by Claire Sanders—Leah Wall is an unwanted, poor relation, and she’s stunned and horrified to discover her uncle has arranged a marriage between her and widowed Caleb Whitaker. Leah finds herself a wife in name only, caring for Caleb’s children while he fights for the Union Army. If he comes home from the war, can she hope for more?
New Garden’s Conversion by Susette Williams—Jaidon Taylor is instantly attracted to beautiful Catherine Wall, but she thwarts all his attempts to get close because she is a Quaker and he is not. Jaidon is determined to show Catherine they aren’t as different as she believes. As they work together with inner city kids, will Jaidon succeed in his mission? Or are they really as different as Catherine believes?
THE QUAKERS OF NEW GARDEN is a collection of four romances, three set in historical time periods, and one in contemporary times. I enjoyed reading all four stories, but did stumble over the “thee’s” used in the first three for awhile. The fourth story, being a contemporary had the Quakers dressed in modern clothes and using modern language, making the characters easy for reader to identify with. All four stories are very well developed and interesting and readers interested in learning about the Quakers while devouring a well-told romance (or four) will want to read this book. All four of the stories are well written with realistic characters and an interesting story line. Recommended. $7.99. 350 pages. 4.5 stars.
January 23, 2012
The Quakers of New Garden, a Four-in-one collection by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Ann E. Schrock, Claire Sanders & Susette Williams.
I very much enjoyed these three stories. Each was different, but all were compelling in their own way.
The First, New Garden's Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, is the story of Ruth and Josiah, an engaged couple and the trials, tribulations, heartache that come from how we all can misunderstand the actions of another. Without asking for an explanation (or not being willing to listen to one) Ruth sets the stage for what is to come.
New Garden's Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock was next, with it's story of Deborah, a Quaker involved with the underground railroad, and Nathaniel, a slave hunter who has come a far piece from his own Quaker roots. Can he change? Can Deborah learn to trust him?
New Garden's Inspiration By Claire Sanders follows Leah Wall as her Uncle, who's family took her in after her parents died, arranges a marriage between Leah and a farmer, Caleb Whitaker, who was widowed, and now is joining the Civil war and needs a new wife to care for his family while he is gone. Leah wants a true marriage. What does Caleb expect from his new wife? Caleb is wounded in the war and Leah must care for him. Will this be enough for them to build a true marriage relationship?
New Gardens Conversion by Susette Williams Beginings with Catherine taking care of a young man who was shot. Through him she meets Jaidon Taylor, a young Lawyer who volunteers at a youth center in a bad part of the city. Catherine finds herself volunteering at the same center. As their relationship becomes closer, she confides to him her promise to her late father, that she would never marry a man who wasn't a Quaker. What will they do when her church refuses to let Jaidon join?
I very much enjoyed these three stories. Each was different, but all were compelling in their own way.
The First, New Garden's Hope by Jennifer Hudson Taylor, is the story of Ruth and Josiah, an engaged couple and the trials, tribulations, heartache that come from how we all can misunderstand the actions of another. Without asking for an explanation (or not being willing to listen to one) Ruth sets the stage for what is to come.
New Garden's Crossroads by Ann E. Schrock was next, with it's story of Deborah, a Quaker involved with the underground railroad, and Nathaniel, a slave hunter who has come a far piece from his own Quaker roots. Can he change? Can Deborah learn to trust him?
New Garden's Inspiration By Claire Sanders follows Leah Wall as her Uncle, who's family took her in after her parents died, arranges a marriage between Leah and a farmer, Caleb Whitaker, who was widowed, and now is joining the Civil war and needs a new wife to care for his family while he is gone. Leah wants a true marriage. What does Caleb expect from his new wife? Caleb is wounded in the war and Leah must care for him. Will this be enough for them to build a true marriage relationship?
New Gardens Conversion by Susette Williams Beginings with Catherine taking care of a young man who was shot. Through him she meets Jaidon Taylor, a young Lawyer who volunteers at a youth center in a bad part of the city. Catherine finds herself volunteering at the same center. As their relationship becomes closer, she confides to him her promise to her late father, that she would never marry a man who wasn't a Quaker. What will they do when her church refuses to let Jaidon join?
April 11, 2012
We've read about the Amish, now here come the Quakers!
This collection follows the Wall family through the generations, as their Quaker faith is challenged and the time marches swiftly by.
Not that the other stories weren't good as well, but my favorite was the first one in the collection. Maybe it's my fascination with politics, or just that I liked the colonial time period, or maybe I liked the idea of a young man trying desperately to win back his true love after postponing their wedding one too many times!
The other stories were also good, with one about an Underground Railroad, and a hero who did a total turn around, and became a wonderful upstanding man. And another about an arranged marriage in the turmoil of the Civil War, and another one set in modern days that gave me a rare peek into what being a Quaker means today!
As is often the tough thing with novellas I felt that the stories ended all too soon. And I wish that some of the stories had been longer, and had a bit more of a story progression. But then again, I love the convenience of the shortness of the stories.
Overall, I will say that it is always a struggle to write a review of a novella collection and do each novelette justice, but this was an interesting read and I learned alot about the Quakers, even though I didn't agree with some of their traditions and beliefs. This was an absolutely lovely novella collection, though and I would recommend it to Amish Fiction fans who might be looking for a little something different :)
I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. Thanks.
This collection follows the Wall family through the generations, as their Quaker faith is challenged and the time marches swiftly by.
Not that the other stories weren't good as well, but my favorite was the first one in the collection. Maybe it's my fascination with politics, or just that I liked the colonial time period, or maybe I liked the idea of a young man trying desperately to win back his true love after postponing their wedding one too many times!
The other stories were also good, with one about an Underground Railroad, and a hero who did a total turn around, and became a wonderful upstanding man. And another about an arranged marriage in the turmoil of the Civil War, and another one set in modern days that gave me a rare peek into what being a Quaker means today!
As is often the tough thing with novellas I felt that the stories ended all too soon. And I wish that some of the stories had been longer, and had a bit more of a story progression. But then again, I love the convenience of the shortness of the stories.
Overall, I will say that it is always a struggle to write a review of a novella collection and do each novelette justice, but this was an interesting read and I learned alot about the Quakers, even though I didn't agree with some of their traditions and beliefs. This was an absolutely lovely novella collection, though and I would recommend it to Amish Fiction fans who might be looking for a little something different :)
I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. Thanks.
April 8, 2013
The Quakers of New Garden
Claire Sanders, Ann E. Schrock, Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Susette Williams
Description: Four Quakers of New Garden face trials of the heart. When Josiah Wall postpones his marriage to Ruth Payne for a second time, Ruth is reluctant to give him another chance at love. Deborah Wall is thrilled to work at a hub of the Underground Railroad, until wounded Nathaniel Fox—a bounty hunter for runaway slaves—is left to her care. Leah Wall struggles to turn a marriage of convenience into a marriage of love. Christian Jaidon Taylor pursues Quaker Catherine Wall—but she’s convinced their differences will forever keep them apart. Will these women withstand the test of love?
Review: I really liked the story lines for all the books. They were well thought out and easy to read except for the ‘thee’ ‘thou’ and like language. It was OK at the start but became a noose during the reading because the weighed down the dialogue. I struggled through this with the start of each story until I could block it out. It seemed to me that it should have been phased out and I doubt that it would have bothered me. They were fun to see them blend from one part of the family to the next with characters that would pop into other stories. I am glad that I read it over all and look forward to hearing good things from these authors in the future.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Claire Sanders, Ann E. Schrock, Jennifer Hudson Taylor, Susette Williams
Description: Four Quakers of New Garden face trials of the heart. When Josiah Wall postpones his marriage to Ruth Payne for a second time, Ruth is reluctant to give him another chance at love. Deborah Wall is thrilled to work at a hub of the Underground Railroad, until wounded Nathaniel Fox—a bounty hunter for runaway slaves—is left to her care. Leah Wall struggles to turn a marriage of convenience into a marriage of love. Christian Jaidon Taylor pursues Quaker Catherine Wall—but she’s convinced their differences will forever keep them apart. Will these women withstand the test of love?
Review: I really liked the story lines for all the books. They were well thought out and easy to read except for the ‘thee’ ‘thou’ and like language. It was OK at the start but became a noose during the reading because the weighed down the dialogue. I struggled through this with the start of each story until I could block it out. It seemed to me that it should have been phased out and I doubt that it would have bothered me. They were fun to see them blend from one part of the family to the next with characters that would pop into other stories. I am glad that I read it over all and look forward to hearing good things from these authors in the future.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
May 30, 2012
I have come to really like the Romancing America series. Normally I am not a big fan of short stories but I love how these books are written and flow together and this book is no exception. This book is about Quakers. The first story takes place in the early 1800’s and the next three stories slowly bring us to present day with the final story.
What I liked: Even though the 4 stories are short they where well written. I liked all the stories a lot. The characters where likeable and the stories interesting. I did not know a lot about the Quaker history and beliefs and found this book informative and interesting.
What I did not like: The fourth story was not as good as the first three to me. Maybe its because we jumped from historical to contemporary. The third story was told by only the female character and the other three where told by both the male and the female so that story felt a little out of place.
Over all this was a fun book and I enjoyed reading it a lot. I think my favorite story was of Leah who married for convenience but found love. I could have read a whole book just about them! If you’re a fan of the Romancing America series your in for a treat with this book! If you have not read any of these books this is a good one to start with.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...#
What I liked: Even though the 4 stories are short they where well written. I liked all the stories a lot. The characters where likeable and the stories interesting. I did not know a lot about the Quaker history and beliefs and found this book informative and interesting.
What I did not like: The fourth story was not as good as the first three to me. Maybe its because we jumped from historical to contemporary. The third story was told by only the female character and the other three where told by both the male and the female so that story felt a little out of place.
Over all this was a fun book and I enjoyed reading it a lot. I think my favorite story was of Leah who married for convenience but found love. I could have read a whole book just about them! If you’re a fan of the Romancing America series your in for a treat with this book! If you have not read any of these books this is a good one to start with.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...#
May 14, 2012
These three historical and one modern inspirational romances involve several generations of a Quaker family, the Walls, in Indiana. Four Quaker women face trails of faith and the heart. Will they withstand the test of love?
In New Garden's Hope set in the early 1800's, will the love and faith of this this Quaker couple prove strong enough to overcome their differences.
New Garden's Crossroads take place during the days of the Undergrourd railroad, the Quakers ran. Will the hero, Nathaniel give up his worldly ways?
New Garden's Inspiration take place during the civil war. Will a way be made for Leah to find love?
New Garden's Conversion takes place in modern times. Are Catherine and Jaidon's spiritual beliefs really that different?
This is a heartwarming, sweet, inspirational romance of four novellas from four different authors. I fell in love with the characters and cried tears of joy while reading it.
In New Garden's Hope set in the early 1800's, will the love and faith of this this Quaker couple prove strong enough to overcome their differences.
New Garden's Crossroads take place during the days of the Undergrourd railroad, the Quakers ran. Will the hero, Nathaniel give up his worldly ways?
New Garden's Inspiration take place during the civil war. Will a way be made for Leah to find love?
New Garden's Conversion takes place in modern times. Are Catherine and Jaidon's spiritual beliefs really that different?
This is a heartwarming, sweet, inspirational romance of four novellas from four different authors. I fell in love with the characters and cried tears of joy while reading it.
December 23, 2013
Oh, these were interesting stories...mercy how they jumped through the history quickly. One does have to remember that this is historical fiction, meaning fact-based, but it's still a FICTIONAL STORY.
The first one was romantic, with a touch of Forrest Gump for the "famous" relatives meet.
Second story took us to the next generation...romance found a bit differently. Story started to drag a bit in this one. Seems more religious than the last one.
Third story is a time jump again and a cousin of some sort? *shrugs* Not as slow as the previous story.
The last story is the "present day" (though the present part is sort of questionable...there's an elder named "Matthew" in this one, which may or may not be the young Matthew from the previous story). Anyway, Quakers aka Friends behave a bit more modern in this one in some ways, though still cling to certain ways. The pace in this story is a bit better than the last two.
The first one was romantic, with a touch of Forrest Gump for the "famous" relatives meet.
Second story took us to the next generation...romance found a bit differently. Story started to drag a bit in this one. Seems more religious than the last one.
Third story is a time jump again and a cousin of some sort? *shrugs* Not as slow as the previous story.
The last story is the "present day" (though the present part is sort of questionable...there's an elder named "Matthew" in this one, which may or may not be the young Matthew from the previous story). Anyway, Quakers aka Friends behave a bit more modern in this one in some ways, though still cling to certain ways. The pace in this story is a bit better than the last two.
October 26, 2013
This was a 4-novellas-in-1-book format. I think that worked in some ways, but not in others. I would have liked to have had more time to get to know some of the characters, but enjoyed that there were 4 different time frames and perspectives of the Quakers of New Garden. I had a hard time with the 2nd of the 4 novellas for some reason that I can't quite put my finger on, so I avoided reading the book for several days and, to be honest, I almost didn't finish it. I'm glad I persevered, though. The 3rd and 4th novellas were much better!
July 6, 2012
*Four-In-One Collection* Each story is well written and a pleasure to read. I really enjoy these inspiring stories of faith, hope, love, and trusting God in all circumstances of life. Very powerful, meaningful stories, each one. I'm so glad I won this book. Thank you Goodreads, first-reads, Barbour and the very talented authors.
January 26, 2012
3.5
Reviewed for Booked Up . Stay tuned for the review to be posted on Booked Up's goodreads account and the Blog
Reviewed for Booked Up . Stay tuned for the review to be posted on Booked Up's goodreads account and the Blog
January 7, 2013
Play across generations of a family of Quakers, from the beginnings of American culture through the slave bounty hunters, my favorite, to present day, these four stories will entertain and delight you.
August 29, 2013
One of the most benign books I have ever read. Had I not committed to an acquaintance that I would read it, I would never have finished it. It's sappy, not very informative, and extremely boring. I would definitely not recommend it to anyone.
November 4, 2012
The stories were okay. Disappointed that a couple of the authors obviously didnt know much about Quaker theology besides plain speech and dress.
July 20, 2012
liked this book. the last story was a tad melodramatic, but overall still good.
July 21, 2012
I would have liked to review this book but my iPad would not cooperate
December 22, 2012
Like the first 3 stories. Did not care for the last one.
April 21, 2013
This 4story compelation was pretty good. I read it on a vacation and the historical connections in the 4stories were very good
May 19, 2013
A really interesting book well worth the read
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews