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An Amish Love
A marriage of the heart
Three Kelly Long Amish novellas—available for the first time in one collection.
Christmas Cradles—When Anna takes over for her aunt, the local midwife, Christmas night heats up with multiple deliveries, three strangers' quilts, and unexpected help from the handsome, brooding Asa Lapp.
A Marriage of the Heart—Since her mother’s death, Abigail Kauffman has lived alone with her father. She longs to escape the emptiness of the farmhouse that has never felt like home. Joseph Lambert is a newcomer in their close-knit community. Only after suddenly marrying do they begin to understand the tender truths of life-long love.
A Perfect Secret—Rose’s betrothed, Luke, is safe and dependable—maybe a little too safe. Or so she thought, until she ran into him into the woods one night and learned there was more to him than she ever suspected. Now his secret haunts her. She wasn’t sure about marrying a man she knew too well. But should she marry a man she doesn’t understand at all?
Christmas Cradles—When Anna takes over for her aunt, the local midwife, Christmas night heats up with multiple deliveries, three strangers' quilts, and unexpected help from the handsome, brooding Asa Lapp.
A Marriage of the Heart—Since her mother’s death, Abigail Kauffman has lived alone with her father. She longs to escape the emptiness of the farmhouse that has never felt like home. Joseph Lambert is a newcomer in their close-knit community. Only after suddenly marrying do they begin to understand the tender truths of life-long love.
A Perfect Secret—Rose’s betrothed, Luke, is safe and dependable—maybe a little too safe. Or so she thought, until she ran into him into the woods one night and learned there was more to him than she ever suspected. Now his secret haunts her. She wasn’t sure about marrying a man she knew too well. But should she marry a man she doesn’t understand at all?
352 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2012
48 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 3, 2018
Thank you, Ms. Long, for writing an epic guy character WHO HAS GLASSES. <33 This should totally be a thing. #moreguyswithglassesplz
January 20, 2013
I had read A Perfect Secret when it was released on its own and enjoyed it. I did not remember all of the details, though, and read it again. Each of the three novellas gave me such a good feeling. It made me think of my own first love, giving birth to my own daughters, and the wonderful experiences I had. Rose made me think of adventure and the discontent that the ordinary, safe, life can leave us with each day. You will love reading how Rose and Luke find a way to "spice up life".
Anna and Asa's story was so touching. Anna is a marvelous example of the curvy woman finding her own way in the world. I love that we have an example of a woman who is not 80 pounds. Anna also has her own successful career as an Amish midwife so she serves as a positive role-model in several different ways. You will enjoy traveling through the snow and blizzard with Anna and Asa as they help to bring new lives into the world.
Abigail and Joseph made me think of arranged marriages, though it is a bit different from them, it does have many similarities. They start off their marriage with some definite obstacles to overcome. Can they find love together? Anna wants to leave her father's home? Will she get her wish or will she be stuck in that loveless, strict home forever? I found great pleasure in reading the story of these various young Amish people. I believe that you will also be filled with good feelings as you read Kelly Long's novellas.
Anna and Asa's story was so touching. Anna is a marvelous example of the curvy woman finding her own way in the world. I love that we have an example of a woman who is not 80 pounds. Anna also has her own successful career as an Amish midwife so she serves as a positive role-model in several different ways. You will enjoy traveling through the snow and blizzard with Anna and Asa as they help to bring new lives into the world.
Abigail and Joseph made me think of arranged marriages, though it is a bit different from them, it does have many similarities. They start off their marriage with some definite obstacles to overcome. Can they find love together? Anna wants to leave her father's home? Will she get her wish or will she be stuck in that loveless, strict home forever? I found great pleasure in reading the story of these various young Amish people. I believe that you will also be filled with good feelings as you read Kelly Long's novellas.
March 29, 2019
I enjoyed this story because it was different from the Amish stories I usually read. This story has a pretty Amish girl with plenty of self centered flaws. She was raised by a strict father with no influence from a mother that would have taught Abby how to cook and do all the other household chores. All she could think about was getting away from her rigid father and live in the English world. When a young man, formerly Amish and now English, comes to visit his relatives, Abby comes up with a plan. Force him to marry her by claiming that he forced his attentions on her so she could be English. The plan went well except after the wedding the man informs Abby he intended to return to the Amish faith. He moves in with her and her father and begins farming. Not what Abby wanted at all. I liked the characters in this story. They weren't the type of Amish characters we usually read about. Abby because she didn't have the guidance of a mother had grown up self centered, scheming and not at all humble. I enjoyed reading this story by Kelly Long – A Marriage Of The Heart. One of three novellas in a paperback book with two other authors titled an Amish Love.
June 13, 2018
I really enjoyed these three stories. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be Christmas Cradles about a single Amish woman who was a midwife filling in for her aunt who is taking a break.
The first story, A Perfect Secret was a bit unbelievable. The male protagonist was Amish, but was disguising himself as an Englisher in order to carry out some secret activities. I'm not sure how he thought that his fiance wouldn't recognize him in his disguise. I would equate it to Clark Kent and his glasses. It was still a very enjoyable story.
The first story, A Perfect Secret was a bit unbelievable. The male protagonist was Amish, but was disguising himself as an Englisher in order to carry out some secret activities. I'm not sure how he thought that his fiance wouldn't recognize him in his disguise. I would equate it to Clark Kent and his glasses. It was still a very enjoyable story.
May 11, 2017
Loved it. I love and collect Amish novels and very much enjoy they're simplified way of life and how they care for one another, as well as praising God and looking to HIM for everything.
December 21, 2018
I love sweet, clean romantic stories like this! It is fun to see how each character changes and the blessing the gift of love can make in someones life!
September 9, 2022
Good stories. Lovely listen.
January 3, 2023
Read before joining this platform but enjoyed the story line. I read audio books on the Libby app.
September 5, 2023
I only really like a marriage from the heart story. The other 2 were eh and was paces way too fast.
July 10, 2019
BORROWED HOOPLA AUDIO
October 22, 2012
A Marriage of the Heart is three Kelly Long Amish novellas—available for the first time in one collection. Since it is a 3-in-1 collection I will be reviewing each story individually within this review. Something I have never done previously! So, bear with me if it is rough around the edges!
A Perfect Secret:
Rose has accepted her best friend's marriage proposal but she secretly wishes for something more. While she loves him as a friend she desires to feel that spark of romance from him. That moment when he will kiss her and the world stops moving. Instead, it seems to her that he isn't attracted to her and simply proposed because they were friends. Then, she finds out a secret that Luke has been carrying and her entire perception changes. She is intrigued by the "new Luke" and she is desperate to get to know that side of him, even as it threatens to tear them apart. This was a sweet little story about the unknown when it comes to romance and how you can know someone as a very close friend for years and still miss the inner workings of their mind and heart.
Christmas Cradles:
The Lord Giveth and the Lord Taketh. As a midwife, Anna knows this lesson well. She prays that the Lord will give her patients protection and safe deliveries on a cold winter night, Christmas to be exact! Covering for her aunt who is also a midwife, Anna braves bad weather to attend to three births in the community. With the poor weather, she is relying on Asa Lapp to get her to the homes of her patients safely. It is her first time meeting Asa as she is not from the same Amish community, therefore she doesn't know the true reasons for his brooding personality. What she does know is that she is completely intrigued by this man. As she spends the evening with him going from home to home...she can feel herself falling for him. Likewise, he is falling for this quirky and determined midwife! Our past has a way of creeping up on us though and a dark secret threatens to ruin this budding romance. Can Anna trust in the Lord enough to hear him out? Or will she judge him for past sins that are quickly bubbling to the surface?
I really enjoyed this story and though it was over pretty quickly and seemed a little rush, that is pretty typical for a novella. I think you will not be disappointed at the conclusion! If you're like me, you might even develop a little book crush on the obviously handsome Asa with his husky voice and dreamy personality!
A Marriage of the Heart:
Abby is a beautiful and yet manipulative girl who finds herself married to a wonderfully patient man. Despite the fact that she trapped him into marrying her. Joseph is genuine in his desire to get to know Abby and even to love her but Abby is eager for the ways of the world. Joseph has had his fill of the world though, having been "English" he wants for nothing more than to forget his past. A past that he hopes Abby can never finds out. Abby is reluctant at first but she can't help but to start to fall for her new husband and she is surprised by the desire in her heart to learn to cook, to sew, to do all the things a good Amish wife should do for her husband. With his help and gentle patience, he slowly wins her heart and helps her find her true self and in turn, he relies on Abby to help him confront his dark past.
Joseph's character was so dreamy to read about! I think I developed at least two crushes in this collection of novellas. Kelly Long certainly knows how to paint an appealing Amishman! I think this was my favorite out of the three stories. I kept hoping that things would work out for Abby and Joseph. I was not disappointed with this story in the least! It met all the criteria I look for in a good Amish romance!
Places to Buy:
Amazon
CBD
Barnes&Noble
About the Author:
Kelly Long is the author of Sarah's Garden, the first novel in the Patch of Heaven series. She was born and raised in the mountains of Northern Pennsylvania. She’s been married for nearly 25 years and has five children.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
A Perfect Secret:
Rose has accepted her best friend's marriage proposal but she secretly wishes for something more. While she loves him as a friend she desires to feel that spark of romance from him. That moment when he will kiss her and the world stops moving. Instead, it seems to her that he isn't attracted to her and simply proposed because they were friends. Then, she finds out a secret that Luke has been carrying and her entire perception changes. She is intrigued by the "new Luke" and she is desperate to get to know that side of him, even as it threatens to tear them apart. This was a sweet little story about the unknown when it comes to romance and how you can know someone as a very close friend for years and still miss the inner workings of their mind and heart.
Christmas Cradles:
The Lord Giveth and the Lord Taketh. As a midwife, Anna knows this lesson well. She prays that the Lord will give her patients protection and safe deliveries on a cold winter night, Christmas to be exact! Covering for her aunt who is also a midwife, Anna braves bad weather to attend to three births in the community. With the poor weather, she is relying on Asa Lapp to get her to the homes of her patients safely. It is her first time meeting Asa as she is not from the same Amish community, therefore she doesn't know the true reasons for his brooding personality. What she does know is that she is completely intrigued by this man. As she spends the evening with him going from home to home...she can feel herself falling for him. Likewise, he is falling for this quirky and determined midwife! Our past has a way of creeping up on us though and a dark secret threatens to ruin this budding romance. Can Anna trust in the Lord enough to hear him out? Or will she judge him for past sins that are quickly bubbling to the surface?
I really enjoyed this story and though it was over pretty quickly and seemed a little rush, that is pretty typical for a novella. I think you will not be disappointed at the conclusion! If you're like me, you might even develop a little book crush on the obviously handsome Asa with his husky voice and dreamy personality!
A Marriage of the Heart:
Abby is a beautiful and yet manipulative girl who finds herself married to a wonderfully patient man. Despite the fact that she trapped him into marrying her. Joseph is genuine in his desire to get to know Abby and even to love her but Abby is eager for the ways of the world. Joseph has had his fill of the world though, having been "English" he wants for nothing more than to forget his past. A past that he hopes Abby can never finds out. Abby is reluctant at first but she can't help but to start to fall for her new husband and she is surprised by the desire in her heart to learn to cook, to sew, to do all the things a good Amish wife should do for her husband. With his help and gentle patience, he slowly wins her heart and helps her find her true self and in turn, he relies on Abby to help him confront his dark past.
Joseph's character was so dreamy to read about! I think I developed at least two crushes in this collection of novellas. Kelly Long certainly knows how to paint an appealing Amishman! I think this was my favorite out of the three stories. I kept hoping that things would work out for Abby and Joseph. I was not disappointed with this story in the least! It met all the criteria I look for in a good Amish romance!
Places to Buy:
Amazon
CBD
Barnes&Noble
About the Author:
Kelly Long is the author of Sarah's Garden, the first novel in the Patch of Heaven series. She was born and raised in the mountains of Northern Pennsylvania. She’s been married for nearly 25 years and has five children.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
March 11, 2015
A MARRIAGE OF THE HEART (A Collection of Amish Novellas) - Kelly Long
(*SPOILER ALERT!!!*)
A Perfect Secret
Oh my word, this novel is so cute! And soo romantic! (swoon)
Luke is a wonderful, mysterious, charming sweetheart! He's so romantic. And his Englisch side - or should I say, his true self - is so tantalizing, and mysterious, and amazing! Yikes, he gives me shivers!
Rose is so sweet, and passionate, and daring! Such an adventurer. I like her spunk too. Can't blame her for being confused about Luke's behavior. His two personalities - who he was and who he pretended to be - were so completely different. They're just so perfect together!
Priscilla seems sweet. I certainly hope her wedding goes well.
Luke's daed is so kind and thoughtful. I'm glad he and Luke opened up to each other.
Rose's aunt Tabitha is really nice as well. I think she and Luke's father would be great together.
Sylvia is sweet too. That's funny how she thought Luke being Amish was ridiculous. Ally's a sweetheart.
I think the whole "Robin Hood", guy-not-being-who-she-thought-he-was plot was cute. And very engaging. Great novella.
5 stars.
Christmas Cradles
Goodness, that was short!
Day one - Single midwife Anna moves into town to help her aunt. Later that night she meets handsome Asa Lapp. He drives her to a house to deliver a baby.
Day Two - The baby's born. They talk on the way to another house and start to like each other. She delivers a breech baby. They, once again, make their way to another house through a blizzard. (They like each other a little more.) They get to the house and meet a snappy woman. Anna tells her off and delivers yet another baby. Asa gets sick and Anna stays with him. Asa says something in his sleep. Anna goes home to rest.
Day Three - Anna wakes up and finds still-sick Asa at her door. He explains what he said the previous night. They definitely like each other.
The end.
You just read the entire book in three paragraphs instead of eighty pages.
It was a good story. The characters were nice. It was just short.
Very short.
3 stars.
A Marriage of the Heart
I actually didn't care for Joseph very much at first. He was too carefree. I mean, I liked that he added humor and everything. But he just seemed like he wasn't acquainted with grief. Like he hadn't experienced the trials of life. Boy, was I wrong!
Joseph was amazing. He was kind, and romantic, and fun, and sweet. His strength in turning his back on his addiction was awesome. And he was so kind to Abby, though I do have to admit he annoyed me some. I liked how he taught her to cook. And, goodness, he such a stinker! (Remembering the time when he teased her as she bathed.)
Abigail was super sweet. She was considerate, scheming, and a bit sassy. She never really experienced true love. There was her father's love, but he hid a lot of it in his sternness. I'm glad Joseph showed her what love is. I do wish he'd told her that he loved her though. I know he did, but I still wish he'd voiced it.
Abby's father was such a sweetheart. He was all stern and gruff to hide his pain and love. Oh, the moment he cried and revealed himself to Abby was so sweet I almost bawled along with him!
Everyone else was great - except for Molly, of course.
Thank you, Kelly, for writing another wonderful story.
4.5 stars.
(*SPOILER ALERT!!!*)
A Perfect Secret
Oh my word, this novel is so cute! And soo romantic! (swoon)
Luke is a wonderful, mysterious, charming sweetheart! He's so romantic. And his Englisch side - or should I say, his true self - is so tantalizing, and mysterious, and amazing! Yikes, he gives me shivers!
Rose is so sweet, and passionate, and daring! Such an adventurer. I like her spunk too. Can't blame her for being confused about Luke's behavior. His two personalities - who he was and who he pretended to be - were so completely different. They're just so perfect together!
Priscilla seems sweet. I certainly hope her wedding goes well.
Luke's daed is so kind and thoughtful. I'm glad he and Luke opened up to each other.
Rose's aunt Tabitha is really nice as well. I think she and Luke's father would be great together.
Sylvia is sweet too. That's funny how she thought Luke being Amish was ridiculous. Ally's a sweetheart.
I think the whole "Robin Hood", guy-not-being-who-she-thought-he-was plot was cute. And very engaging. Great novella.
5 stars.
Christmas Cradles
Goodness, that was short!
Day one - Single midwife Anna moves into town to help her aunt. Later that night she meets handsome Asa Lapp. He drives her to a house to deliver a baby.
Day Two - The baby's born. They talk on the way to another house and start to like each other. She delivers a breech baby. They, once again, make their way to another house through a blizzard. (They like each other a little more.) They get to the house and meet a snappy woman. Anna tells her off and delivers yet another baby. Asa gets sick and Anna stays with him. Asa says something in his sleep. Anna goes home to rest.
Day Three - Anna wakes up and finds still-sick Asa at her door. He explains what he said the previous night. They definitely like each other.
The end.
You just read the entire book in three paragraphs instead of eighty pages.
It was a good story. The characters were nice. It was just short.
Very short.
3 stars.
A Marriage of the Heart
I actually didn't care for Joseph very much at first. He was too carefree. I mean, I liked that he added humor and everything. But he just seemed like he wasn't acquainted with grief. Like he hadn't experienced the trials of life. Boy, was I wrong!
Joseph was amazing. He was kind, and romantic, and fun, and sweet. His strength in turning his back on his addiction was awesome. And he was so kind to Abby, though I do have to admit he annoyed me some. I liked how he taught her to cook. And, goodness, he such a stinker! (Remembering the time when he teased her as she bathed.)
Abigail was super sweet. She was considerate, scheming, and a bit sassy. She never really experienced true love. There was her father's love, but he hid a lot of it in his sternness. I'm glad Joseph showed her what love is. I do wish he'd told her that he loved her though. I know he did, but I still wish he'd voiced it.
Abby's father was such a sweetheart. He was all stern and gruff to hide his pain and love. Oh, the moment he cried and revealed himself to Abby was so sweet I almost bawled along with him!
Everyone else was great - except for Molly, of course.
Thank you, Kelly, for writing another wonderful story.
4.5 stars.
November 21, 2012
Title: A MARRIAGE OF THE HEART
Author: Kelly Long
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
November 2012
ISBN: 978-1401687564
Genre: Amish
These three novellas by Kelly Long were all published before in three different collections with Thomas Nelson—An Amish Love, An Amish Wedding, and An Amish Christmas, expanded edition. I have read all these books previously and loved them, and it is nice to have all of Kelly Long’s novellas in one collection.
A Perfect Secret—Rose Bender has always known she’d marry her long time best friend Luke Lantz. But there is a thief in their Amish neighborhood and when Rose catches a glimpse of the English thief he seems so much more intriguing than her intended. Luke is harboring a secret too. One that could cost him his good standing in his Amish community, not to mention rip Rose from his arms forever.
Christmas Cradles—Anna Stolis has gone to relieve her aunt of her midwifery duties for the night so she can get away. But there are three women expecting. Anna’s aunt arranges for Asa Mast to stay in the barn just in case there is need of Anna acting as midwife. Sure enough, the first call comes and Anna and Asa take off in a blizzard to deliver a first child. With God’s design three babies are born that night and Asa finds a new hope for his life. But is it enough to make her give up her own practice and stay to help her aunt?
A Marriage of the Heart—Abigail Kauffman told a lie. Angry that Joseph Lambert ignored her beauty, she lied about him making inappropriate moves toward her and they are forced to marry. Joseph knows it’s a lie, but he agrees, because he wants a way into the community. Abby is looking for a way out. But instead Joseph moves into her home, with her father, and prepares to stay. Is there any hope for this marriage built on deceit?
At first I didn’t like Abby Kauffman in A Marriage of the Heart, but have to say that I loved Joseph, and I loved the sparks between them. Abby did grow on me. This story was the most fun to read in this novella collection. I loved this story. Kelly Long is getting a reputation as being an edgier Amish writer, and I have to admit that I do love the passion she has in her stories. They are clean, but there is a lot of sexual tension, and she does that so very well. If you read the previous collections, but didn’t like all the stories or wanted only the ones by ones by one author, then A MARRIAGE OF THE HEART is a great collection. If you haven’t read the previous collections listed at the beginning—do. A Perfect Secret is part of a wedding story that is ongoing through the whole book, An Amish Wedding. The other two are stand-alone. $12.99. 352 pages.
Author: Kelly Long
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
November 2012
ISBN: 978-1401687564
Genre: Amish
These three novellas by Kelly Long were all published before in three different collections with Thomas Nelson—An Amish Love, An Amish Wedding, and An Amish Christmas, expanded edition. I have read all these books previously and loved them, and it is nice to have all of Kelly Long’s novellas in one collection.
A Perfect Secret—Rose Bender has always known she’d marry her long time best friend Luke Lantz. But there is a thief in their Amish neighborhood and when Rose catches a glimpse of the English thief he seems so much more intriguing than her intended. Luke is harboring a secret too. One that could cost him his good standing in his Amish community, not to mention rip Rose from his arms forever.
Christmas Cradles—Anna Stolis has gone to relieve her aunt of her midwifery duties for the night so she can get away. But there are three women expecting. Anna’s aunt arranges for Asa Mast to stay in the barn just in case there is need of Anna acting as midwife. Sure enough, the first call comes and Anna and Asa take off in a blizzard to deliver a first child. With God’s design three babies are born that night and Asa finds a new hope for his life. But is it enough to make her give up her own practice and stay to help her aunt?
A Marriage of the Heart—Abigail Kauffman told a lie. Angry that Joseph Lambert ignored her beauty, she lied about him making inappropriate moves toward her and they are forced to marry. Joseph knows it’s a lie, but he agrees, because he wants a way into the community. Abby is looking for a way out. But instead Joseph moves into her home, with her father, and prepares to stay. Is there any hope for this marriage built on deceit?
At first I didn’t like Abby Kauffman in A Marriage of the Heart, but have to say that I loved Joseph, and I loved the sparks between them. Abby did grow on me. This story was the most fun to read in this novella collection. I loved this story. Kelly Long is getting a reputation as being an edgier Amish writer, and I have to admit that I do love the passion she has in her stories. They are clean, but there is a lot of sexual tension, and she does that so very well. If you read the previous collections, but didn’t like all the stories or wanted only the ones by ones by one author, then A MARRIAGE OF THE HEART is a great collection. If you haven’t read the previous collections listed at the beginning—do. A Perfect Secret is part of a wedding story that is ongoing through the whole book, An Amish Wedding. The other two are stand-alone. $12.99. 352 pages.
December 18, 2012
I recently finished reading A Marriage of the Heart. Of course, I fell in love with the name of the book! There were three stories included, all about Amish couples and their struggles in their lives. I really enjoy a good romance and found myself wanting to know how things were going to work out for them. It's fun when I find a great book that pulls me in and it feels like I'm in another world.
The first story, A Perfect Secret, is about two lifelong friends that we're happy with each other but Rose wondered if their was more adventure somewhere else and if she was just settling for normalcy. There is some secrets going on that Rose didn't know about with her friend and she finds herself involved in a way that is surprising and exciting.
The second story, Christmas Cradles, was my favorite. I once thought about becoming a Midwife but didn't want the full responsibilities involved with bringing a new life into this world. I also love anything medical with me being a Nurse. The story is about Anna Stolis who is a Midwife, her Aunt goes on a vacation and she works for her while she is away. The winter weather has brought a big storm to complicate the possible deliveries that Anna has to attend to. An Amish man was assigned to help her drive the buggy to the three women that were in need. During these trips, they have challenges and adventures that draw them closer together and they learn things about themselves that they didn't know before.
The third story, A Marriage of the Heart, starts out with a lie from Abigail about Joseph and his inappropriate advances. This causes her father to request that Joseph marry his daughter or leave the community. Joseph decides to marry her and then they have to work on figuring out their real relationship. There is many ups and downs but the whole story is full of true love and commitment.
The first story, A Perfect Secret, is about two lifelong friends that we're happy with each other but Rose wondered if their was more adventure somewhere else and if she was just settling for normalcy. There is some secrets going on that Rose didn't know about with her friend and she finds herself involved in a way that is surprising and exciting.
The second story, Christmas Cradles, was my favorite. I once thought about becoming a Midwife but didn't want the full responsibilities involved with bringing a new life into this world. I also love anything medical with me being a Nurse. The story is about Anna Stolis who is a Midwife, her Aunt goes on a vacation and she works for her while she is away. The winter weather has brought a big storm to complicate the possible deliveries that Anna has to attend to. An Amish man was assigned to help her drive the buggy to the three women that were in need. During these trips, they have challenges and adventures that draw them closer together and they learn things about themselves that they didn't know before.
The third story, A Marriage of the Heart, starts out with a lie from Abigail about Joseph and his inappropriate advances. This causes her father to request that Joseph marry his daughter or leave the community. Joseph decides to marry her and then they have to work on figuring out their real relationship. There is many ups and downs but the whole story is full of true love and commitment.
November 11, 2012
"A Marriage of the Heart" consists of three short novellas written by one of my favorite Amish authors Kelly Long. Short and satisfying is how I would describe them.
"A Perfect Secret" Rose Bender was certain that she knew her fiance Luke Lantz, but when she discovers a secret that he has been keeping, it causes her to question what she really knows about him?
"A Marriage of the Heart" is the story of Abigail Kauffman and Joseph Lambert. When a lie forces these two to be married, they decide to make the best of things.
"Christmas Cradles" ~ Anna Stolis is a midwife who is filling in for her aunt Ruth while she takes a much needed vacation. With a snowstorm, and babies wanting to be born, Anna needs someone to drive her, and help comes in the form of Asa Lapp.
I had actually read "A Perfect Secret" in another collection, but actually enjoyed re-reading it. While I enjoyed all three of these short stories, easily my favorite had to be "A Marriage of the Heart." I really enjoyed the characters and because of the way the marriage started out I wasn't sure how it might turn out but really hoped for the best, and I wasn't disappointed. While each story is short enough to read in one sitting,the author provided enough information to draw me in and allow me to connect with the characters. I always expect satisfying Amish stories whenever I read anything by Kelly Long, and she always delivers. Fans of Amish fiction will certainly enjoy this collection, and the cookie recipes included are an added bonus.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
"A Perfect Secret" Rose Bender was certain that she knew her fiance Luke Lantz, but when she discovers a secret that he has been keeping, it causes her to question what she really knows about him?
"A Marriage of the Heart" is the story of Abigail Kauffman and Joseph Lambert. When a lie forces these two to be married, they decide to make the best of things.
"Christmas Cradles" ~ Anna Stolis is a midwife who is filling in for her aunt Ruth while she takes a much needed vacation. With a snowstorm, and babies wanting to be born, Anna needs someone to drive her, and help comes in the form of Asa Lapp.
I had actually read "A Perfect Secret" in another collection, but actually enjoyed re-reading it. While I enjoyed all three of these short stories, easily my favorite had to be "A Marriage of the Heart." I really enjoyed the characters and because of the way the marriage started out I wasn't sure how it might turn out but really hoped for the best, and I wasn't disappointed. While each story is short enough to read in one sitting,the author provided enough information to draw me in and allow me to connect with the characters. I always expect satisfying Amish stories whenever I read anything by Kelly Long, and she always delivers. Fans of Amish fiction will certainly enjoy this collection, and the cookie recipes included are an added bonus.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2012
A PERFECT SECRET
It a great story. There is some one steals from others in the Amish community. Though no one knows who or why at first, the reasoning is heart filling.
Luke and Rose are to be married, now that Rose accepted his proposal. They were best friends since they were kids. Rose finds out Luke is hiding something and you could never guess what until it is literally spelled out. They had a good ending. I loved the descriptions.
CHRISTMAS CRADLES
Awesome story about Anna, who is a mid-wife. She goes to help her Aunt out with her mid-wife business while she goes on a vacation. She meet Asa who is her driver, that will help her to the birthing(s) if there is any that night. There are 3 possibilities for births, and at least one will come, or even more...
I couldn't stop reading once i started, i just had to finish it.
A MARRIAGE OF THE HEART
At the beginning a girl, Abigail Kauffman, is annoyed by a guy (by his casual dismissal of her beauty), Joseph Lambert, and to pay him back she says that "he . . . well . . . just made me feel a little uncomfortable with the way he was kissing me . . . and touching . . . and I . . ." Her father then says he will talk to him and they will be married, but that wasn't what she wanted, but her father said to dress in blue (which is the color for marrying). Now she will have to face his scorn.
This story, when read in full, warms the heart. It made me smile in a lot of different parts of the story. Great story that is well written.
It a great story. There is some one steals from others in the Amish community. Though no one knows who or why at first, the reasoning is heart filling.
Luke and Rose are to be married, now that Rose accepted his proposal. They were best friends since they were kids. Rose finds out Luke is hiding something and you could never guess what until it is literally spelled out. They had a good ending. I loved the descriptions.
CHRISTMAS CRADLES
Awesome story about Anna, who is a mid-wife. She goes to help her Aunt out with her mid-wife business while she goes on a vacation. She meet Asa who is her driver, that will help her to the birthing(s) if there is any that night. There are 3 possibilities for births, and at least one will come, or even more...
I couldn't stop reading once i started, i just had to finish it.
A MARRIAGE OF THE HEART
At the beginning a girl, Abigail Kauffman, is annoyed by a guy (by his casual dismissal of her beauty), Joseph Lambert, and to pay him back she says that "he . . . well . . . just made me feel a little uncomfortable with the way he was kissing me . . . and touching . . . and I . . ." Her father then says he will talk to him and they will be married, but that wasn't what she wanted, but her father said to dress in blue (which is the color for marrying). Now she will have to face his scorn.
This story, when read in full, warms the heart. It made me smile in a lot of different parts of the story. Great story that is well written.
December 1, 2012
The first story...A Perfect Secret, is not really a perfect one. We meet Rose and her intended Luke Raber. This one is a very different, not what one expects! We are taken on late night adventures, and some not so nice accidents. Also some very caring [???] bouquets of flowers!
In Christmas Cradles we have a beautiful story of Romance and Forgivness. Asa and Anna..Anna being a midwife and ending up delivering three babies, while Asa is her buggy driver, and assistant.
Reliving mistakes made as a young man, while sick. One baby born in a stable...just like a Christmas of long ago. A sweet story of renewal and happiness.
The last story A Marriage of the Heart.. is about a hurting girl who tricks an newly baptized Amishman into marriage. Loved how this story unfolded and how love and forgiveness abounds.
Three quick, good stories, they are a fast and sweet read. Enjoy!
I received this book through Publisher Thomas Nelson's Book Sneeze Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
In Christmas Cradles we have a beautiful story of Romance and Forgivness. Asa and Anna..Anna being a midwife and ending up delivering three babies, while Asa is her buggy driver, and assistant.
Reliving mistakes made as a young man, while sick. One baby born in a stable...just like a Christmas of long ago. A sweet story of renewal and happiness.
The last story A Marriage of the Heart.. is about a hurting girl who tricks an newly baptized Amishman into marriage. Loved how this story unfolded and how love and forgiveness abounds.
Three quick, good stories, they are a fast and sweet read. Enjoy!
I received this book through Publisher Thomas Nelson's Book Sneeze Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
March 8, 2014
3 Amish Novellas
A Perfect Secret
I thought this story seemed a bit unrealistic. But on the other hand, maybe that is because my brain is flashing, “Danger! Danger!” Rose is very trusting and naïve. Her behavior is not in the least prudent, but she is young and curious. Also, being Amish, she probably didn’t have any experience with the deceitful ways of the world, so she felt no fear of unnamed possibilities.
With all that being said, this is a sweet and innocent love story with quite a bit of humor thrown in.
A Marriage of the Heart
This story tugs at my heart-strings. It is the story of another young woman, whose actions are not well planned. However, the results were far from what she expected. It is exciting to see how she grows to be a very special woman, in spite of the girl she was.
Christmas Cradles
This is my favorite novella of the three. It is a sweet and poignant story of love. Both Anna and Asa are charming characters. Their path to happiness together was obviously planned by God, which is a surprise to them both.
A Perfect Secret
I thought this story seemed a bit unrealistic. But on the other hand, maybe that is because my brain is flashing, “Danger! Danger!” Rose is very trusting and naïve. Her behavior is not in the least prudent, but she is young and curious. Also, being Amish, she probably didn’t have any experience with the deceitful ways of the world, so she felt no fear of unnamed possibilities.
With all that being said, this is a sweet and innocent love story with quite a bit of humor thrown in.
A Marriage of the Heart
This story tugs at my heart-strings. It is the story of another young woman, whose actions are not well planned. However, the results were far from what she expected. It is exciting to see how she grows to be a very special woman, in spite of the girl she was.
Christmas Cradles
This is my favorite novella of the three. It is a sweet and poignant story of love. Both Anna and Asa are charming characters. Their path to happiness together was obviously planned by God, which is a surprise to them both.
April 14, 2013
This book is composed of three short novellas with "A Marriage of the Heart" being my favorite. Each story was good in it's own right which made the book twice as good as a whole. I must admit the situations that the characters found themselves in aren't what I usually find in the Amish fiction which makes them more interesting and exciting. I was easily drawn in to each story and sad when each one ended. The cookie recipes look wonderful and hopefully I will get to make them sometime. I have not read anything by this author before but will definitely be looking for more books by her in the future. If you are a fan of Amish Fiction then I definitely would recommend this book to you.
December 13, 2014
This relationship started out on the wrong foot, in that they were nearly complete strangers when they married and they married under a lie. I would have liked this a lot more if a slow romance had started, but from where it started, it was hard to enjoy it..I think the relationship was cute, well-written and there was a slow build to the feelings between these two, which was nice and even though they were married first, without that they may have never gotten to know each other and it worked in this novella. I spent most of book not liking Abby because of her lie, then I understood her reasons and then she started changing slowly and became a true wife to Joseph...really lovely
January 10, 2022
The first of a Kathy Long book I’ve read, I can’t wait to read more of her books!!!
An usual storyline for an Amish story, but that’s what I loved about it, it’s not like the other Amish novels I’ve read. A story about a girl grown up to fill shoes she was too young to fill, longs for something different but it isn’t what she expected to happen.
Friendship, forgiveness and love blooms over time bringing a family together along with a community.
An usual storyline for an Amish story, but that’s what I loved about it, it’s not like the other Amish novels I’ve read. A story about a girl grown up to fill shoes she was too young to fill, longs for something different but it isn’t what she expected to happen.
Friendship, forgiveness and love blooms over time bringing a family together along with a community.
December 7, 2012
LOVED IT!!! Three short stories by Kelly Long. A Perfect Secret/
Christmas Cradles/A Marriage of the Heart. Kelly Long is my favorite author who writes Amish books. I really enjoyed all of the stories, but my favorite was A Marriage of the Heart. I had a hard time putting this book down, I stayed up late reading this one.
Christmas Cradles/A Marriage of the Heart. Kelly Long is my favorite author who writes Amish books. I really enjoyed all of the stories, but my favorite was A Marriage of the Heart. I had a hard time putting this book down, I stayed up late reading this one.
January 13, 2013
Cute stories of hope, forgiveness and faith. Each story felt too short for me however and each seemed to end before any resolution that made me feel I had reached the end of the character's journey or experience. I'm starting to feel that novellas may not give me the HEA wrap up I need as a reader.
November 9, 2013
The stories were predictable, but sweet. I listened to the audiobook and the narrators were HORRIBLE. They read too fast and rushed through obvious sentence breaks. They didn't even try to differentiate between the different characters. I'd probably read more of this author, but actually read the books instead of listen to them. ;)
July 22, 2015
It was ok. A little too Englisch for my taste, when reading an Amish story. I know it was a novella but things seemed to clean up too easily. On the other hand it seemed like there were weeks or months she passed by where they didn't develop at all in their relationship?
A fun easy feel good read but could have been better.
A fun easy feel good read but could have been better.
April 30, 2021
Kelly Long's books are just not for me, they are such a strange mix of things that don't work for me! Super old-fashioned, you'd think they're set in days of yore - forced weddings and "hip baths" - on one hand, but then again the characters are horny and all over each other all the time in a weird, pseudo-modest way. Full of clichés, too.
July 17, 2024
This was three stories of 3 Amish girl's courtship. Of the three, Levin, is married and the courtship is by her husband who left his family for one year. Abby lives with her father and without warning or knowing Josepha find herself married to aa stranger. Ellie is blind and thinks no man would want to marry her but, to her surprise sparks begin to fly with Chris.
December 27, 2012
I think Kelly Long is my favorite Amish Romance author. This book had three novellas in it. I was disappointed in the first story, the ending just seemed to drop and I was left hanging. But I liked the second story, and absolutely loved the third!
January 6, 2013
While I like all three stories in this book, I think A Marriage of the Heart is my favorite. I recommend this to anyone who likes Amish stories and witty humor. I will be reading more from Kelly Long.
December 30, 2012
I loved how each of these 3 stories tied to each other. If you love Amish stories than this book is a must read!
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