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The Amish of Apple Grove #3
A Cowboy at Heart
A Cowboy at Heart, an engaging Amish-meets-Wild West adventure from bestselling authors Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith, weaves a clever and romantic tale of new starts and second chances.
1886—Jesse Montgomery is beginning to feel restless. Though he’s grateful to his friends Colin and Emma for helping him get on his feet again after a few bad choices and some hard living, surely the Lord doesn’t want him to stay in Apple Grove forever. Doesn’t the Almighty have plans for this reformed rowdy cowboy to build a life of his own?
When an unscrupulous cattle baron tries to steal Amish land, Jesse intervenes and is wounded. Lovely Katie Miller, the young healer in the district, attends to him while trying to guard her heart. This sweet Amish widow cannot risk falling in love with an Englisch cowboy, charming though he may be. And yet—she believes God has a life for her too that is more than what she can presently see. Could there be a future with Jesse only He could bring about?
1886—Jesse Montgomery is beginning to feel restless. Though he’s grateful to his friends Colin and Emma for helping him get on his feet again after a few bad choices and some hard living, surely the Lord doesn’t want him to stay in Apple Grove forever. Doesn’t the Almighty have plans for this reformed rowdy cowboy to build a life of his own?
When an unscrupulous cattle baron tries to steal Amish land, Jesse intervenes and is wounded. Lovely Katie Miller, the young healer in the district, attends to him while trying to guard her heart. This sweet Amish widow cannot risk falling in love with an Englisch cowboy, charming though he may be. And yet—she believes God has a life for her too that is more than what she can presently see. Could there be a future with Jesse only He could bring about?
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2013
97 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Lori Copeland
195 books536 followersLori Copeland was born on 12 June 1941. She had a relatively late start in writing, breaking into publishing in 1982 when she was already forty years old. Over the next dozen years, her romance novels achieved much success, as was evidenced by her winning the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and Walden Books' Best Seller award. She has been inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame.
Despite her success in more mainstream romantic fiction, in 1995, she decided to switch focus. Her subsequent books have been in the relatively new subgenre of Christian romance. She has also collaborated with authors Angela Elwell Hunt or Virginia Smith on a series of Christian romance novels.
Lori and her husband of over forty years, Lance, live in Springfield, Missouri, surrounded by the beautiful Ozarks. They have three grown sons, three daughter-in-laws, and six wonderful grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters. She and her husband are very involved in their church, and active in supporting mission work in Mali, West Africa.
Despite her success in more mainstream romantic fiction, in 1995, she decided to switch focus. Her subsequent books have been in the relatively new subgenre of Christian romance. She has also collaborated with authors Angela Elwell Hunt or Virginia Smith on a series of Christian romance novels.
Lori and her husband of over forty years, Lance, live in Springfield, Missouri, surrounded by the beautiful Ozarks. They have three grown sons, three daughter-in-laws, and six wonderful grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters. She and her husband are very involved in their church, and active in supporting mission work in Mali, West Africa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 24, 2013
This was the third and final book in The Amish of Apple Grove. This time we caught up with Jesse, Luke's best friend (book one) and the man Rebecca thought she loved (book two).
Jesse came full circle. He was a wild and rough cowboy with a quick temper and dislike for the Amish in book one, a down on his luck drunk in boom two, and a man looking for peace, love, and a home in book three. The surprise to himself was finding everything he wanted not only in Apple Grove, but in an Amish widow named Katie.
Katie was a favorite daughter in Apple Grove. She was also the widowed daughter-in-law of the district Bishop. Katie was the closest thing to a doctor Apple Grove had. So it was only logical that she care foe Jesse when he was shot defending an Amish friend.
Although good, book three was a little slow in comparison to book one. For me, I did not feel the chemistry between Jesse and Katie. The ending was sweet, but lacking somehow. The epilogue did help.
There's also a bonus short story at the end of the book outlining how Jonas and Caroline. It too is sweet, but also lacking something.
Jesse came full circle. He was a wild and rough cowboy with a quick temper and dislike for the Amish in book one, a down on his luck drunk in boom two, and a man looking for peace, love, and a home in book three. The surprise to himself was finding everything he wanted not only in Apple Grove, but in an Amish widow named Katie.
Katie was a favorite daughter in Apple Grove. She was also the widowed daughter-in-law of the district Bishop. Katie was the closest thing to a doctor Apple Grove had. So it was only logical that she care foe Jesse when he was shot defending an Amish friend.
Although good, book three was a little slow in comparison to book one. For me, I did not feel the chemistry between Jesse and Katie. The ending was sweet, but lacking somehow. The epilogue did help.
There's also a bonus short story at the end of the book outlining how Jonas and Caroline. It too is sweet, but also lacking something.
Read
January 23, 2013A lovely romance book based in the 1880's involving the Amish community. There were 2 books written prior involving the characters which I wish I had read but will now read before the 4th book is released. Easy to read, characters were brought to life, took me 1 day to read as I didn't want to put it down. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read it before the book was released.
January 22, 2013
Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith hit a home run with this heart warming story of lost love, loosing ones house, life's difficult moments and overcoming it all. The trials of each character were real life trials that we all might encounter, even though the book takes place in 1886. The book is about trusting God to see us through all our trials and helping us overcome them in a manner pleasing to Him.
Katie is a young widow of her Amish Bishop's son. She is adamant that she will never marry again because she cannot have children. She does not want to have a man suffer through the same pain as he deceased husband. Katie is blessed as a healer and midwife and plans to live her life helping others.
Jesse is a former range cowboy and alcoholic. He believes that no woman will ever love him for the life he led, drinking his way through life. He is now sober and yearns for a home and family. He is also English living with Jonas' daughter who left the Amish faith along with his other daughter. Jesse works on their farms, he is a long time friend of Emma's Husband a former range cowboy.
Jonas is a widower with a farm he has lived on for 20 years. He wakes up one morning to see a fence running right through the middle of his hard earned and hard worked farm. A rich cattle baron has come to town to get as much land as he can and has decided that Jonas' spread has perfect access to water for his cattle. Because the Amish do not fight He has decided to take half of Jonas' land.
Jonas is in the process of trying to get his land back while remaining true to his Amish beliefs Jesse is shot in the back helping him. Katie comes to Jonas' farm to minister to Jesse's wounds and hopefully keep him alive.
Will Jonas keep his land? Will Jesse live through his grave injury and find a home and family of his own? Will Katie trust God and marry again? Will she ever be a mother? Read this wonderful heart warming book to find out. It is well worth the time to read it and the money to purchase it!
Katie is a young widow of her Amish Bishop's son. She is adamant that she will never marry again because she cannot have children. She does not want to have a man suffer through the same pain as he deceased husband. Katie is blessed as a healer and midwife and plans to live her life helping others.
Jesse is a former range cowboy and alcoholic. He believes that no woman will ever love him for the life he led, drinking his way through life. He is now sober and yearns for a home and family. He is also English living with Jonas' daughter who left the Amish faith along with his other daughter. Jesse works on their farms, he is a long time friend of Emma's Husband a former range cowboy.
Jonas is a widower with a farm he has lived on for 20 years. He wakes up one morning to see a fence running right through the middle of his hard earned and hard worked farm. A rich cattle baron has come to town to get as much land as he can and has decided that Jonas' spread has perfect access to water for his cattle. Because the Amish do not fight He has decided to take half of Jonas' land.
Jonas is in the process of trying to get his land back while remaining true to his Amish beliefs Jesse is shot in the back helping him. Katie comes to Jonas' farm to minister to Jesse's wounds and hopefully keep him alive.
Will Jonas keep his land? Will Jesse live through his grave injury and find a home and family of his own? Will Katie trust God and marry again? Will she ever be a mother? Read this wonderful heart warming book to find out. It is well worth the time to read it and the money to purchase it!
May 6, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
He’s a recovering alcoholic who has been taken in by the Amish. He’s not Amish, but he appreciates what they have done for him and he’s adjusting to a slower life on the farm. She’s an Amish widow and still feels the loss of her husband. She also has a very over-bearing father-in-law.
I enjoy reading books about those who choose to live a simpler life and follow their own religions. One of their concepts about protecting against jealousy or envy is to wear the same color and style of clothing. That’s something the Catholic school required when I was growing up. We all wore the same uniforms. I always thought it was boring, but it stops those with more or less money from standing out in the crowd, as well as dressing fancier for flirting.
The authors have done a good job of representing the Amish community and lifestyle and how everyone takes care of each other. They also make this a story that shows there can be conflict even within an Amish community. That made it very interesting to read for me, along with the cattle baron trying to take over a ranch and Jesse trying to stop that. What I most appreciated most was that the authors had their characters stay true to the Amish way; they didn’t take the easy way out.
I found it entertaining with a good plot and a nice word flow. Almost every character in this book changes in some way and it was fun to watch them develop new strength and survive the crisis in their life. If you like Amish stories, this one is better than average. You should give a try.
He’s a recovering alcoholic who has been taken in by the Amish. He’s not Amish, but he appreciates what they have done for him and he’s adjusting to a slower life on the farm. She’s an Amish widow and still feels the loss of her husband. She also has a very over-bearing father-in-law.
I enjoy reading books about those who choose to live a simpler life and follow their own religions. One of their concepts about protecting against jealousy or envy is to wear the same color and style of clothing. That’s something the Catholic school required when I was growing up. We all wore the same uniforms. I always thought it was boring, but it stops those with more or less money from standing out in the crowd, as well as dressing fancier for flirting.
The authors have done a good job of representing the Amish community and lifestyle and how everyone takes care of each other. They also make this a story that shows there can be conflict even within an Amish community. That made it very interesting to read for me, along with the cattle baron trying to take over a ranch and Jesse trying to stop that. What I most appreciated most was that the authors had their characters stay true to the Amish way; they didn’t take the easy way out.
I found it entertaining with a good plot and a nice word flow. Almost every character in this book changes in some way and it was fun to watch them develop new strength and survive the crisis in their life. If you like Amish stories, this one is better than average. You should give a try.
April 24, 2013
I have been fortunate enough to have read this series from beginning to end, and really have enjoyed it. In "A Cowboy at Heart" we are transported to 1886. Can a rough and tumble cowboy and an Amish widow ever find a way to be together? Jesse Montgomery wants to change his life but getting shot wasn't part of the plan, Katie Miller is a healer in her Amish community and comes to Jesse's aid when he gets caught in the crossfire over some land. As Jesse heals his heart is drawn toward Katie, but is there even a chance, after all she is Amish, he isn't and the Bishop isn't happy about their relationship. While a bit predictable overall I found this to be a light easy read, and since I really do enjoy the Amish genre this book and entire series was right up my alley.
December 10, 2019
Jesse and Kate how he has changed over the previous books. From being a quick temper, and wanting nothing to do with the Amish.
Finding in the Widow Kate and Apple Grove was what he did need.
A good series, if one reads all three for they characters follow thru.
GivenARC audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Cecilia White added to the story and was enjoyable to listen to.
Finding in the Widow Kate and Apple Grove was what he did need.
A good series, if one reads all three for they characters follow thru.
GivenARC audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Cecilia White added to the story and was enjoyable to listen to.
April 11, 2024
A cowboy finds an Amish girl to love.
Enjoyed being with this author again. Jesse and Katie story was s story of renewal. Jesse left his old life and came into the Amish way. Katie found someone to love her completely and to give her a family of her own. So happy that Jesse got to be with his friends. Will read more by Lori and Virginia.
Enjoyed being with this author again. Jesse and Katie story was s story of renewal. Jesse left his old life and came into the Amish way. Katie found someone to love her completely and to give her a family of her own. So happy that Jesse got to be with his friends. Will read more by Lori and Virginia.
June 1, 2024
This is Jesse’s story when he went to Apple Grove to recover from his downward spiral of life after Rebecca realized she did not love him. What’s going to happen to Jesse when he is injured by greedy cattlemen from Texas in the peaceful Kansas Amish community?
I borrowed this book from our library, thus a review was not required.
I borrowed this book from our library, thus a review was not required.
April 26, 2019
Great ending
This book in the series is by far m favorite. We get to see all the previous characters and how they have developed. Plus you get to see a good man become a better man through The Lord and the people he surrounds himself with and their teachings.
This book in the series is by far m favorite. We get to see all the previous characters and how they have developed. Plus you get to see a good man become a better man through The Lord and the people he surrounds himself with and their teachings.
September 29, 2017
This was such a lovely romance - I would recommend to others.
August 17, 2018
This was a great way to wrap up this series. I am glad Jonas and his family found peace and Jesse got a happy ending. It was a sweet family to read about throughout this trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2018
A nice comfortable book with a happy ending.
November 19, 2018
Good book
October 31, 2020
Another awesome sequel in a very good series.
November 27, 2021
Didn’t realize this was part of a trilogy, but it can be a stand alone novel. It has loss, grief, alcoholism, and happiness, all in one story. The plot is well developed as well as the characters.
July 22, 2024
It was a good story, but from this story it seemed that the Amish put their rules before what the Bible teaches.
April 17, 2013
This book made me hungry!! I should probably explain that a bit. Living in Pennsylvania, and the specific area I grew up in, I can remember heading to Lancaster PA (better known as Amish Country!) where they have the most amazing Amish culture where you get to see how the Amish live and if you are very lucky you can speak with them and learn quite a bit. Also I have a friend who lives all the way on the other side of the coast and up in Canada who has an ongoing joke with me about me being Amish, but I see myself going far away from my book review and the reason this book made me hungry! My apologies to you, dear book review reader. Anyway, as for the hungry thing, if you are ever in Lancaster PA, please do yourself a favor and go to the Shady Maple. You will understand the meaning of the hunger and likely thank me for it later (unless you are on a diet or something)! This book made me hungry, and it also made me glad I took the time to read it because it was a fitting final book in the series, highly enjoyable to read, and very well written!
This is the third and final book in the series. It follows, “The Heart’s Frontier” and “A Plain and Simple Heart”. You are quite able to read this book on its own if that is what you choose to do, it’s what I did. However, I would probably recommend not doing that! I really sort of wish I had read the first two, well, first. I actually didn’t realize there were two others because I don’t always pay attention like that when I get myself all excited to sit down and read a book knowing I’m going to be writing up a review. I think it would be a better deal to read the first two so that you know the characters a bit better and have the chance to know some of the other characters mentioned. However, that said, you can just read this one as it is and follow along just fine. I am going to go backwards though and get the first two soon because I can’t really not read them since this one was really very good.
If you’ve ever read my reviews before, you likely know I don’t give away the story; at all. You really must read for yourself because that’s the way of it. Go get the book and read it! It’s worth it no matter what to be able to say you did it! However, I will say that this book had many good points. I really enjoyed how well it was written by the authors. The historic research that went into it was brilliant. The characters held onto their beliefs and faith through everything and struggled with dilemmas that challenged both at times. The emotions they had felt real and, thanks to the cover picture of the book, you pictured the character as you felt what they did through the wonderful writing. You cried with them, laughed with them, and sometimes wanted to kick a person or two! I really enjoyed the writing and the character development.
Although the book could be a bit predictable at times, it was one of those times where predictability just worked. In the really real world sometimes things are predictable, but you still have to take the time to get there and that’s where the story lies. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking at more by these two authors!
This is the third and final book in the series. It follows, “The Heart’s Frontier” and “A Plain and Simple Heart”. You are quite able to read this book on its own if that is what you choose to do, it’s what I did. However, I would probably recommend not doing that! I really sort of wish I had read the first two, well, first. I actually didn’t realize there were two others because I don’t always pay attention like that when I get myself all excited to sit down and read a book knowing I’m going to be writing up a review. I think it would be a better deal to read the first two so that you know the characters a bit better and have the chance to know some of the other characters mentioned. However, that said, you can just read this one as it is and follow along just fine. I am going to go backwards though and get the first two soon because I can’t really not read them since this one was really very good.
If you’ve ever read my reviews before, you likely know I don’t give away the story; at all. You really must read for yourself because that’s the way of it. Go get the book and read it! It’s worth it no matter what to be able to say you did it! However, I will say that this book had many good points. I really enjoyed how well it was written by the authors. The historic research that went into it was brilliant. The characters held onto their beliefs and faith through everything and struggled with dilemmas that challenged both at times. The emotions they had felt real and, thanks to the cover picture of the book, you pictured the character as you felt what they did through the wonderful writing. You cried with them, laughed with them, and sometimes wanted to kick a person or two! I really enjoyed the writing and the character development.
Although the book could be a bit predictable at times, it was one of those times where predictability just worked. In the really real world sometimes things are predictable, but you still have to take the time to get there and that’s where the story lies. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking at more by these two authors!
July 28, 2013
Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith in their new book, “A Cowboy At Heart” Book Three in The Amish Of Apple Grove series published by Harvest House Publishers takes us into the lives of Katie Miller and Jesse Montgomery.
From the Back Cover: She loves me… she loves me not… she loves me
Kansas, 1886–Jesse Montgomery is beginning to feel restless. He’s been off the Chisholm Trail and on a family farm for a year now. Though he is grateful to Luke and Emma for helping him get on his feet again after a few bad choices and some hard living, surely the Lord doesn’t want him to stay in Apple Grove forever. Doesn’t the Almighty have plans for this reformed rowdy cowboy to build a life of his own?
When an unscrupulous cattle baron tries to steal Amish land, Jesse intervenes and is wounded. Lovely Katie Miller, the young healer in the district, attends to him while trying to guard her heart. This sweet Amish widow cannot risk falling in love again–especially with an Englisch cowboy, charming though he may be. And yet–she believes God has a life for her too that is more than what she can presently see. Could God possibly have a plan for both of them far beyond what they can see?
This is the third and last book in this series, which I am sorry to see come to an end, and this time the focus is Jesse Montgomery. You can read this volume as a stand alone with no problem but it is a lot more fun when you know the character’s growth from the first two books. If this was a movie it would be the kind that John Wayne made during his middle period and he would be Jesse. There is a cattle rancher trying to drive off the Amish farmers and Jesse stands up to him almost getting killed in the process. Katie tends to him and the sparks fly but each is wounded and needs to heal before their romance can actually work. In the meantime the battle is on for the safety of Apple Grove. ”A Cowboy At Heart” is a romance but it is much, much more. Ms. Copeland and Smith explore the themes of Grief over the loss of a spouse and Standing your spiritual ground when it seems that all is lost. I enjoyed this book a lot and am looking forward to the next series from this talented duo.
You can find “A Cowboy At Heart” at a discount at http://www.deepershopping.com/item/co...
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Harvest House Publishers for this review. 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Back Cover: She loves me… she loves me not… she loves me
Kansas, 1886–Jesse Montgomery is beginning to feel restless. He’s been off the Chisholm Trail and on a family farm for a year now. Though he is grateful to Luke and Emma for helping him get on his feet again after a few bad choices and some hard living, surely the Lord doesn’t want him to stay in Apple Grove forever. Doesn’t the Almighty have plans for this reformed rowdy cowboy to build a life of his own?
When an unscrupulous cattle baron tries to steal Amish land, Jesse intervenes and is wounded. Lovely Katie Miller, the young healer in the district, attends to him while trying to guard her heart. This sweet Amish widow cannot risk falling in love again–especially with an Englisch cowboy, charming though he may be. And yet–she believes God has a life for her too that is more than what she can presently see. Could God possibly have a plan for both of them far beyond what they can see?
This is the third and last book in this series, which I am sorry to see come to an end, and this time the focus is Jesse Montgomery. You can read this volume as a stand alone with no problem but it is a lot more fun when you know the character’s growth from the first two books. If this was a movie it would be the kind that John Wayne made during his middle period and he would be Jesse. There is a cattle rancher trying to drive off the Amish farmers and Jesse stands up to him almost getting killed in the process. Katie tends to him and the sparks fly but each is wounded and needs to heal before their romance can actually work. In the meantime the battle is on for the safety of Apple Grove. ”A Cowboy At Heart” is a romance but it is much, much more. Ms. Copeland and Smith explore the themes of Grief over the loss of a spouse and Standing your spiritual ground when it seems that all is lost. I enjoyed this book a lot and am looking forward to the next series from this talented duo.
You can find “A Cowboy At Heart” at a discount at http://www.deepershopping.com/item/co...
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Harvest House Publishers for this review. 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 25, 2013
In 1886 - Jesse Montgomery is feeling restless, however, he feels better than he ever did now that he has conquered his alcoholic demons and hard living ways. Staying with his newly married friend Colin and his wife Emma Jesse has contemplated whether or not he might be able to settle down and assimilate a similar lifestyle change for himself. When asked to ride over and attempt to help out Colin’s father-in-law, an Amish man, from an unscrupulous cattle baron who is trying to steal his land, Jesse was shot, seriously wounded and but for the grace of God, might have died.
Katie Miller, a young Amish widow with a healing touch, luckily was on hand to help tend Jesse during his recovery. Even though Katie found herself attracted, she could not risk falling in love with an Englisch cowboy. Yet, she believes that God does have a plan for her, but questions whether that future included a reformed cowboy?
*** Although this was not the first book in the AMISH OF APPLE GROVE series, I had no problem whatsoever in following the gist of the story signifying that A COWBOY AT HEART is definitely a stand-alone book! The writing team of Copeland and Smith made this a total enjoyable read with lovely characters and a very inspiring story. I was very impressed with Jesse’s horse Rex who was something of a hero in this story as well. However, the entire cast with the exception of the scurrilous cattle baron and his employees, were a wonderful treat whom the authors created with great feeling and love.
While reading I did have an inkling as to the reason of why Katie, who was quite attracted to Jessie, was so adamant as to not wanting to re-marry again. The inclusion of Katie’s exceptionally stern father-in-law, so soured on life after the death of his son, was a good tool used to give more depth to the insurmountable hurdles Jessie and Katie faced before there might be a happily-ever- after for them. Naturally, the entire scenario of what the cattle baron was trying to do to the peaceable Amish was thoroughly disgusting, but made for a great plot point as well, and gave Jessie the opportunity to do something very heroic.
Bottom Line: A COWBOY AT HEART was a great inspirational read and included a lovely romance with great characters and a solid story that moved along very nicely and at a very good pace.
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
Katie Miller, a young Amish widow with a healing touch, luckily was on hand to help tend Jesse during his recovery. Even though Katie found herself attracted, she could not risk falling in love with an Englisch cowboy. Yet, she believes that God does have a plan for her, but questions whether that future included a reformed cowboy?
*** Although this was not the first book in the AMISH OF APPLE GROVE series, I had no problem whatsoever in following the gist of the story signifying that A COWBOY AT HEART is definitely a stand-alone book! The writing team of Copeland and Smith made this a total enjoyable read with lovely characters and a very inspiring story. I was very impressed with Jesse’s horse Rex who was something of a hero in this story as well. However, the entire cast with the exception of the scurrilous cattle baron and his employees, were a wonderful treat whom the authors created with great feeling and love.
While reading I did have an inkling as to the reason of why Katie, who was quite attracted to Jessie, was so adamant as to not wanting to re-marry again. The inclusion of Katie’s exceptionally stern father-in-law, so soured on life after the death of his son, was a good tool used to give more depth to the insurmountable hurdles Jessie and Katie faced before there might be a happily-ever- after for them. Naturally, the entire scenario of what the cattle baron was trying to do to the peaceable Amish was thoroughly disgusting, but made for a great plot point as well, and gave Jessie the opportunity to do something very heroic.
Bottom Line: A COWBOY AT HEART was a great inspirational read and included a lovely romance with great characters and a solid story that moved along very nicely and at a very good pace.
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
April 15, 2013
This story, set in 1886 Kansas, finds the Amish world and the cattle baron world colliding. While the Amish community determines to follow their beliefs and not fight back against an unscrupulous rich man determined to take their land, rowdy cowboy Jesse Montgomery steps in to help and almost pays with his life. Enter sweet, young, Amish widow, Katie Miller, who is drawn to Jesse as she helps to restore his health, but she carries a secret that keeps her guarding her heart against Jesse.
In case you didn't notice, A Cowboy at Heart is the third book in the Apple Grove series by these two authors. Although I guessed during reading the novel that prior stories probably had been told before, I didn't feel left out or like I was missing any details I needed. I was able to read the entire story and follow it without ever getting confused by prior events.
What I Liked
I found the pace very good. As with most stories, the main part of the story takes place quickly considering all that happens, yet the authors write in such a way that it is easy to go along without objecting to the timing.
The characters were well developed, some showing great spiritual or emotional growth and others far less. The emotions the people dealt with were real, and the authors were careful to show struggle while keeping them firmly within their convictions.
Although I am no expert on either the time period or the Amish, I didn't read anything that caused me to pause. The research seemed reasonable and the tidbits of history flowed well within the story without sounding forced or lecturing.
The Bottom Line - 5 stars
Was the storyline predictable -- maybe, but so what? A surprise every now and then is good, but mostly I pick up fiction to relax and enjoy the ride. With that in mind, I loved this book! It had action, a good storyline, compounding problems, believable solutions, people seeking God's answers, raw emotions and so much more. I enjoyed picking it up and had trouble putting it down.
If you enjoy historical romances or Amish stories, then I recommend giving this book a try. Even if you hesitate on Amish novels, this one is fairly well balanced by the addition of several Englischers.
In case you didn't notice, A Cowboy at Heart is the third book in the Apple Grove series by these two authors. Although I guessed during reading the novel that prior stories probably had been told before, I didn't feel left out or like I was missing any details I needed. I was able to read the entire story and follow it without ever getting confused by prior events.
What I Liked
I found the pace very good. As with most stories, the main part of the story takes place quickly considering all that happens, yet the authors write in such a way that it is easy to go along without objecting to the timing.
The characters were well developed, some showing great spiritual or emotional growth and others far less. The emotions the people dealt with were real, and the authors were careful to show struggle while keeping them firmly within their convictions.
Although I am no expert on either the time period or the Amish, I didn't read anything that caused me to pause. The research seemed reasonable and the tidbits of history flowed well within the story without sounding forced or lecturing.
The Bottom Line - 5 stars
Was the storyline predictable -- maybe, but so what? A surprise every now and then is good, but mostly I pick up fiction to relax and enjoy the ride. With that in mind, I loved this book! It had action, a good storyline, compounding problems, believable solutions, people seeking God's answers, raw emotions and so much more. I enjoyed picking it up and had trouble putting it down.
If you enjoy historical romances or Amish stories, then I recommend giving this book a try. Even if you hesitate on Amish novels, this one is fairly well balanced by the addition of several Englischers.
January 23, 2016
A COWBOY AT HEART was sweet and predictable but still enjoyable if you are looking for a light read.
Katie Miller, a widowed, Amish healer comes to Jesse Montgomery’s aid when he is shot in a battle over land. While caring for him, her feelings turn from just caretaker to something stronger. Knowing he is an Englisch Cowboy, she ignores her heart. But her heart is not easily put off.
Jesse Montgomery is trying to put his rowdy life and bad choices behind him. He comes to Jonas Switzer’s aid when a cattle baron tries to muscle him out of his land. Getting shot was not what he had in mind. But when the demure Katie Miller sees to his wounds and his recovery, he daydreams about what life would be like with a woman such as Katie by his side. Knowing that will never happen because she is Amish–and he doesn’t deserve the likes of her–he instead turns his energies toward securing Jonas’ land.
As Katie and Jesse struggle with their feelings for each other, the Bishop–who happens to be Katie’s father-in-law–scolds both Katie and Jesse separately for the time they have spent together. His harsh attitude towards them and the others in the community of Apple Grove spurs the community to find a new settlement. Seeing this as the perfect opportunity, Jesse makes his feelings known to Katie. For Katie, his declaration confuses her heart even further.
First, I have to say, that Amish books have to be my least favorite in the fiction arena. So, when A COWBOY AT HEART showed up with the picture of an Amish woman on the cover I cringed. But, knowing I had to be responsible, I still went ahead and read it. I was pleasantly surprised that the book kept my interest for the duration. I appreciated the dedication Katie had to her Amish family and the respect Jesse had for Katie. Since most Amish books have to do with someone either hiding in the Amish community or someone deciding if they should leave or stay, the storyline was pretty predictable, but entertaining none the less.
Book provided for review purposes.
Katie Miller, a widowed, Amish healer comes to Jesse Montgomery’s aid when he is shot in a battle over land. While caring for him, her feelings turn from just caretaker to something stronger. Knowing he is an Englisch Cowboy, she ignores her heart. But her heart is not easily put off.
Jesse Montgomery is trying to put his rowdy life and bad choices behind him. He comes to Jonas Switzer’s aid when a cattle baron tries to muscle him out of his land. Getting shot was not what he had in mind. But when the demure Katie Miller sees to his wounds and his recovery, he daydreams about what life would be like with a woman such as Katie by his side. Knowing that will never happen because she is Amish–and he doesn’t deserve the likes of her–he instead turns his energies toward securing Jonas’ land.
As Katie and Jesse struggle with their feelings for each other, the Bishop–who happens to be Katie’s father-in-law–scolds both Katie and Jesse separately for the time they have spent together. His harsh attitude towards them and the others in the community of Apple Grove spurs the community to find a new settlement. Seeing this as the perfect opportunity, Jesse makes his feelings known to Katie. For Katie, his declaration confuses her heart even further.
First, I have to say, that Amish books have to be my least favorite in the fiction arena. So, when A COWBOY AT HEART showed up with the picture of an Amish woman on the cover I cringed. But, knowing I had to be responsible, I still went ahead and read it. I was pleasantly surprised that the book kept my interest for the duration. I appreciated the dedication Katie had to her Amish family and the respect Jesse had for Katie. Since most Amish books have to do with someone either hiding in the Amish community or someone deciding if they should leave or stay, the storyline was pretty predictable, but entertaining none the less.
Book provided for review purposes.
January 4, 2014
Title: A COWBOY AT HEART
Authors: Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
April 2013
ISBN: 978-0736953412
Genre: Amish / historical
A Cowboy at Heart, an engaging Amish-meets-Wild West adventure from bestselling authors Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith, weaves a clever and romantic tale of new starts and second chances.
1886--Jesse Montgomery is beginning to feel restless. Though he's grateful to his friends Colin and Emma for helping him get on his feet again after a few bad choices and some hard living, surely the Lord doesn't want him to stay in Apple Grove forever. Doesn't the Almighty have plans for this reformed rowdy cowboy to build a life of his own?
When an unscrupulous cattle baron tries to steal Amish land, Jesse intervenes and is wounded. Lovely Katie Miller, the young healer in the district, attends to him while trying to guard her heart. This sweet Amish widow cannot risk falling in love with an Englisch cowboy, charming though he may be. And yet--she believes God has a life for her too that is more than what she can presently see. Could there be a future with Jesse only He could bring about?
A COWBOY AT HEART is book three in The Amish of Apple Grove series. Readers will want to read the first two books The Heart’s Frontier and A Plain and Simple Heart as the books don’t completely stand alone. Jesse is in all three of the books.
I enjoyed getting to know Jesse and Katie in this story, and getting to know Jonas better as well. It was interesting and thought-provoking what he and Jesse went through with the land issues.
If you like historical fiction and Amish fiction and western fiction, you’ll want to read A COWBOY AT HEART. This book—and the whole series—was great. $13.99. 304 pages. 5 stars.
Authors: Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
April 2013
ISBN: 978-0736953412
Genre: Amish / historical
A Cowboy at Heart, an engaging Amish-meets-Wild West adventure from bestselling authors Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith, weaves a clever and romantic tale of new starts and second chances.
1886--Jesse Montgomery is beginning to feel restless. Though he's grateful to his friends Colin and Emma for helping him get on his feet again after a few bad choices and some hard living, surely the Lord doesn't want him to stay in Apple Grove forever. Doesn't the Almighty have plans for this reformed rowdy cowboy to build a life of his own?
When an unscrupulous cattle baron tries to steal Amish land, Jesse intervenes and is wounded. Lovely Katie Miller, the young healer in the district, attends to him while trying to guard her heart. This sweet Amish widow cannot risk falling in love with an Englisch cowboy, charming though he may be. And yet--she believes God has a life for her too that is more than what she can presently see. Could there be a future with Jesse only He could bring about?
A COWBOY AT HEART is book three in The Amish of Apple Grove series. Readers will want to read the first two books The Heart’s Frontier and A Plain and Simple Heart as the books don’t completely stand alone. Jesse is in all three of the books.
I enjoyed getting to know Jesse and Katie in this story, and getting to know Jonas better as well. It was interesting and thought-provoking what he and Jesse went through with the land issues.
If you like historical fiction and Amish fiction and western fiction, you’ll want to read A COWBOY AT HEART. This book—and the whole series—was great. $13.99. 304 pages. 5 stars.
June 20, 2013
Let me start by saying that I am not a fan of Amish fiction. That genre simply never grabbed my attention. I am, however, a fan of Lori Copeland and so I read book 1 of this series The Heart's Frontier and loved it. When I read the synopsis and learned the story would be about Jesse Montgomery (from books 1 & 2) I had a feeling that I knew how this book would end as far as the love story went. Long story short...I was right. I wasn't expecting to like the ending, but found myself pleased and satisfied with the turn of events and surrounding situations. The actual plot for this story was very well done! I was frustrated, touched, and singing for joy by turn! Reading this one did make me want to go back and read the second book (A Plain & Simple Heart) which I missed, though I didn't feel lost having not read it. I also really liked the short story afterwards (A Home in the West)!
Overall, an enjoyable read.
**I received this book through a First-Reads giveaway and was not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Overall, an enjoyable read.
**I received this book through a First-Reads giveaway and was not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.**
October 8, 2013
I LOVED this book. It grabs you from the beginning and opens up a great story with even greater characters. This is the first in this series that I have read and I would LOVE to get and read the previous books. While this is a stand alone book, without too much mention of previous books (but some), when Cowboy at Heart does reference the books that came before it they are explained wonderfully and in a way that makes you feel like you're not missing anything (As I read I found my self wanting to read the other character's stories to see how they got to where they were!). I loved the story line and the way these two authors blend western and Amish together. I have always enjoyed reading Amish books and since I live and grew up on a ranch I'm country to the core! So blending these to themes makes for a wonderful read in my opinion. That is actually what drew me to this book in the first place: the blend of genres, but it was better than I could have thought. Filled with conflict, the right thing to do, and leaning to God's understanding instead of your own. Cowboy at Heart touches on serious issues with great victories, and how what we think and what God has planned can be two VERY different things! :) This has made it to my Favorite Books List! :) Excellent read by two wonderful authors! :)
My songs for Cowboy at Heart are: "Fix me Jesus" by Queen Latifah, "How Great Thou Art" by Carrie Underwood, and "Amazing Grace" by George Jones (R.I.P. George)
Proverbs 3:5
~ASC
My songs for Cowboy at Heart are: "Fix me Jesus" by Queen Latifah, "How Great Thou Art" by Carrie Underwood, and "Amazing Grace" by George Jones (R.I.P. George)
Proverbs 3:5
~ASC
June 21, 2013
This is a satisfying conclusion in the Amish of Apple Grove trilogy! Jesse Montgomery has mended his ways, turning from alcohol to God and staying with his friends while he got sober. When he finds out his Amish friend Jonas is being forced off his land, he tries to intervene and is shot. Widow Katie Miller is the healer in the district and comes to nurse him back to health. They're attracted to each other, but there are more obstacles to their being together than just the differences in their faith.
I really liked the characters in this story. I've read book two and it was fun to see the changes in Jesse from that book. The discussions about resisting evil and living a life of peace were very interesting, especially regarding something as serious as losing your farm and livelihood. I wished there was more to the romance and relationship between Jesse and Katie. This story works as a stand-alone and is more serious than the second book, but I enjoyed the issues discussed. There's also a bonus short story about Jonas as a young man, which was sweet. Check out this well-written novel, especially if you like Amish stories!
I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the characters in this story. I've read book two and it was fun to see the changes in Jesse from that book. The discussions about resisting evil and living a life of peace were very interesting, especially regarding something as serious as losing your farm and livelihood. I wished there was more to the romance and relationship between Jesse and Katie. This story works as a stand-alone and is more serious than the second book, but I enjoyed the issues discussed. There's also a bonus short story about Jonas as a young man, which was sweet. Check out this well-written novel, especially if you like Amish stories!
I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2013
“A Cowboy at Heart” is a novel by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith. It is part of The Amish of Apple Grove books. I really liked this book and will be looking for the other novels in this series. The novel takes place in Kansas when the land was there for the taking by homesteaders and ranchers. Of course some of those people were greedy and mean and the Amish gentlefolk had to deal with that.
Jesse Montgomery is a cowboy who is friends with some of the Amish settlers. He has overcome a few bad choices and a drinking problem to become a man who wants to settle down and have a family. Katie Miller is a widow who is also very adept at nursing and midwifing. Jesse needs her skills when he is shot in the back by the unscrupulous rancher who is out to take over the homesteaders’ property.
I enjoyed reading this novel and finding out how the Amish were able to deal with the threats and violence without losing their gentle ways.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book for my honest review from the publisher. The opinions expressed here are my own.
You can read my review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-60
Jesse Montgomery is a cowboy who is friends with some of the Amish settlers. He has overcome a few bad choices and a drinking problem to become a man who wants to settle down and have a family. Katie Miller is a widow who is also very adept at nursing and midwifing. Jesse needs her skills when he is shot in the back by the unscrupulous rancher who is out to take over the homesteaders’ property.
I enjoyed reading this novel and finding out how the Amish were able to deal with the threats and violence without losing their gentle ways.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book for my honest review from the publisher. The opinions expressed here are my own.
You can read my review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-60
April 20, 2013
The year is 1886 and Jesse Montgomery, has finally kicked the demon whiskey! With the help of his friends Colin and Emma, he has waged his battle and won.
When someone tries to steal Jonas and Mammi Switzer's farm, he goes out to help, only to be shot in the back. Young Widow Katie Miller, comes and helps the Doctor, and stays to help the young cowboy. Sparks tend to fly between them, but Katie is Amish.
Loved spending more time in this Apple Grove Amish Community. Good to see and hear from old friends. Will this be the end of the Settlement, they will not fight to save what is theirs. This peaceful society, will turn the other cheek. Will Jesse be able to help them? Will the Bishop Miller let them accept the help of the English Jesse?
Loved the twists and turns of this story. Through out it all, we see a strong love to follow the Lord's ways.
Don't miss the final story in this trilogy, you can read this one alone, but don't deprive yourself of two other great books!
I received this book through First Wild Card Book Tours, and was not required to give positive review.
When someone tries to steal Jonas and Mammi Switzer's farm, he goes out to help, only to be shot in the back. Young Widow Katie Miller, comes and helps the Doctor, and stays to help the young cowboy. Sparks tend to fly between them, but Katie is Amish.
Loved spending more time in this Apple Grove Amish Community. Good to see and hear from old friends. Will this be the end of the Settlement, they will not fight to save what is theirs. This peaceful society, will turn the other cheek. Will Jesse be able to help them? Will the Bishop Miller let them accept the help of the English Jesse?
Loved the twists and turns of this story. Through out it all, we see a strong love to follow the Lord's ways.
Don't miss the final story in this trilogy, you can read this one alone, but don't deprive yourself of two other great books!
I received this book through First Wild Card Book Tours, and was not required to give positive review.
July 14, 2013
This is the third book in The Amish of Apple Grove series. I read the first two books as well, and it was nice to have the characters from the previous books in this one as well. Once again these two authors wrote a splendid story that I thoroughly enjoyed. The lifestyle of the Amish is rather interesting, so reading about them makes for a nice relaxing read.
I loved the main characters. Jesse is an Englisch cowboy who was an alcoholic and finally got his life straightened out staying with his friends, Luke and Emma. When one of their Amish friend’s land is taken, Jesse goes to stay with him to help protect the rest of the land. In the process of defending the property, Jesse gets hurt. He is tended to by Katie Miller, an Amish widow. Katie begins falling in love with Jesse, but does not see any hope for a relationship with Jesse since he is not Amish.
I would definitely recommend this book, and also the two previous books in this series. These two authors work very well together in creating stories that are pleasant to read and keep me coming back for more.
I loved the main characters. Jesse is an Englisch cowboy who was an alcoholic and finally got his life straightened out staying with his friends, Luke and Emma. When one of their Amish friend’s land is taken, Jesse goes to stay with him to help protect the rest of the land. In the process of defending the property, Jesse gets hurt. He is tended to by Katie Miller, an Amish widow. Katie begins falling in love with Jesse, but does not see any hope for a relationship with Jesse since he is not Amish.
I would definitely recommend this book, and also the two previous books in this series. These two authors work very well together in creating stories that are pleasant to read and keep me coming back for more.
June 6, 2013
Another good book by dual authors.
I could so see ranchers doing Amish the way Mr. Littlefield did Jonas. Because the Amish are peaceful, the English treat them with no respect. We are all people.
But the forgiveness of Mr. Littlefield y Jonas is the big picture. A lesson for us all. I've really never thought about Amish being around in 1800s.
Having read the story of Jesse before on cattle drives with Luke, it was refreshing to read of his struggles with whiskey and faith.
God's plans for Jesse, Jonas, Amos and Katie were revealed.
My 12 year old granddaughter was reading the title yesterday and asking questions about the story.
Jesse's recovery from a bullet wound and a bishop who was so hard and ungracious to people were interesting.
A true story of forgiveness and the struggle with doing it.
I could so see ranchers doing Amish the way Mr. Littlefield did Jonas. Because the Amish are peaceful, the English treat them with no respect. We are all people.
But the forgiveness of Mr. Littlefield y Jonas is the big picture. A lesson for us all. I've really never thought about Amish being around in 1800s.
Having read the story of Jesse before on cattle drives with Luke, it was refreshing to read of his struggles with whiskey and faith.
God's plans for Jesse, Jonas, Amos and Katie were revealed.
My 12 year old granddaughter was reading the title yesterday and asking questions about the story.
Jesse's recovery from a bullet wound and a bishop who was so hard and ungracious to people were interesting.
A true story of forgiveness and the struggle with doing it.
July 7, 2013
I received this book as a goodreads giveaway to read an review.
This is the 3rd book in the Apple Grove Series. I did not read the first two but did not feel as though I missed any major details with the way the final book was written.
Copeland and Smith do a wonderful job showing the differences between some Amish ways and our ways along with the reasoning behind them.
There are some good lessons to be found in this book. My favorite is summed up in a quote by Jesse, "It takes more courage to control your anger than to lash out at somebody who's treating you unfairly. And a lot of strength."
I plan to pick up the first two books in the series to see what I missed.
This is the 3rd book in the Apple Grove Series. I did not read the first two but did not feel as though I missed any major details with the way the final book was written.
Copeland and Smith do a wonderful job showing the differences between some Amish ways and our ways along with the reasoning behind them.
There are some good lessons to be found in this book. My favorite is summed up in a quote by Jesse, "It takes more courage to control your anger than to lash out at somebody who's treating you unfairly. And a lot of strength."
I plan to pick up the first two books in the series to see what I missed.
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