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Temptation
Winner of the Golden Quill Best First Book Contest, the Holt Medallion for Best Mainstream/Single Title
and the Holt Award of Merit for Best First Book
Laura Hayes has been acting since she was an infant, making Hollywood the only home she has ever known. But when she moves to Pennsylvania's Amish country to film her next movie, she discovers there's more to life than a pair of Jimmy Choos and a Marie Claire cover.
Intrigued by the Amish simplicity, she's soon gardening and baking plum pies--and enjoying it. And when her neighbor turns out to be the local heartthrob and a talented furniture maker, she realizes that what's missing from her life might be the love of a good man--not to mention the perfect heirloom tomato.
Jacob fights the urge to question the teachings of his Amish beliefs--despite his desire to create furniture that is beautiful as well as useful--and struggles with his longing for the sexy stranger who makes him feel truly alive for the first time. As his attraction grows, so do his doubts, until he's forced to face temptation and decide once and for all what is truly worth the fight.
and the Holt Award of Merit for Best First Book
Laura Hayes has been acting since she was an infant, making Hollywood the only home she has ever known. But when she moves to Pennsylvania's Amish country to film her next movie, she discovers there's more to life than a pair of Jimmy Choos and a Marie Claire cover.
Intrigued by the Amish simplicity, she's soon gardening and baking plum pies--and enjoying it. And when her neighbor turns out to be the local heartthrob and a talented furniture maker, she realizes that what's missing from her life might be the love of a good man--not to mention the perfect heirloom tomato.
Jacob fights the urge to question the teachings of his Amish beliefs--despite his desire to create furniture that is beautiful as well as useful--and struggles with his longing for the sexy stranger who makes him feel truly alive for the first time. As his attraction grows, so do his doubts, until he's forced to face temptation and decide once and for all what is truly worth the fight.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
322 pages, ebook
First published February 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Barrett
4 books65 followersKathryn Barrett reluctantly put aside childhood dreams of becoming an author and took a more practical approach, majoring in Business Administration in college. But after marrying an Air Force officer, she realized a career in high finance didn’t suit an itinerant lifestyle. She happily returned to her first love, writing stories that feature larger-than-life characters, family relationships, and of course, a happy ending.
Having lived all over the United States, Kathryn and her family now live in England, just outside London. She enjoys walking her dog in the Chiltern hills and exploring crumbling castles, and only occasionally reads the Financial Times.
Having lived all over the United States, Kathryn and her family now live in England, just outside London. She enjoys walking her dog in the Chiltern hills and exploring crumbling castles, and only occasionally reads the Financial Times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 5, 2015
Laura Hayes has been acting since she was a child, guided by her demanding and ambitious mother. Her latest film, an Amish romance, takes place in the tiny village of Serenity Pennsylvania. She decides to buy one of the quaint Amish homes in the community since the movie shoot is a lengthy one.
Initially, she behaves like the stereotypical Hollywood celebrity in that she is used to getting exactly what she wants with her money, beauty, and fame. However, attempting to bring as much authenticity to her role as the wanton Amish woman Hannah, she immerses herself into the lifestyles of the "plain" people around her. Slowly, she begins to love the simple tasks and peaceful existence of the Amish, especially the ruggedly handsome widower Jacob and his young son who live just a couple of fields away. Jacob is a talented and creative furniture designer and Laura desires all of him in the worst way.
This becomes the crisis of this passionate but painful romance - the clash of lifestyles between these two that spans an emotional gulf that seemingly can never be bridged!
A delightful cast of secondary characters try to pull the two of them away from each other, from Laura's pushy and demanding director to Jacob's very traditional mother who desperately wants him to marry an Amish woman steeped in their faith.
Although some in the Amish community cautiously befriend Laura, most of them want the obnixious presence of the film crew to just leave. Although it is "not the Amish way," someone is threatening Laura with notes posted at her home and on the movie set with an attempt at sabotage.
Pressured by his Bishop and deacons, Jacob secretly chafes at the restrictions placed on his emerging artistic brilliance with woodworking and going beyond the confines of "plain Amish designs."
Normally, I will put a book down that depicts the sex-act in graphic detail but I gave this book a pass because the Love-making here is so totally necessary and central to the plot and crisis throughout the story.
This debut book is obviously not your typical Amish romance but explores the depths of desire, longing and angst between two people from impossibly different lives who are passionately and inexorably drawn to each other, despite their differences.
How they wrestle with their choices and what finally settles out creates for the reader the most ultimately satisfying and suspenseful "what-if" romance imaginable.
Initially, she behaves like the stereotypical Hollywood celebrity in that she is used to getting exactly what she wants with her money, beauty, and fame. However, attempting to bring as much authenticity to her role as the wanton Amish woman Hannah, she immerses herself into the lifestyles of the "plain" people around her. Slowly, she begins to love the simple tasks and peaceful existence of the Amish, especially the ruggedly handsome widower Jacob and his young son who live just a couple of fields away. Jacob is a talented and creative furniture designer and Laura desires all of him in the worst way.
This becomes the crisis of this passionate but painful romance - the clash of lifestyles between these two that spans an emotional gulf that seemingly can never be bridged!
A delightful cast of secondary characters try to pull the two of them away from each other, from Laura's pushy and demanding director to Jacob's very traditional mother who desperately wants him to marry an Amish woman steeped in their faith.
Although some in the Amish community cautiously befriend Laura, most of them want the obnixious presence of the film crew to just leave. Although it is "not the Amish way," someone is threatening Laura with notes posted at her home and on the movie set with an attempt at sabotage.
Pressured by his Bishop and deacons, Jacob secretly chafes at the restrictions placed on his emerging artistic brilliance with woodworking and going beyond the confines of "plain Amish designs."
Normally, I will put a book down that depicts the sex-act in graphic detail but I gave this book a pass because the Love-making here is so totally necessary and central to the plot and crisis throughout the story.
This debut book is obviously not your typical Amish romance but explores the depths of desire, longing and angst between two people from impossibly different lives who are passionately and inexorably drawn to each other, despite their differences.
How they wrestle with their choices and what finally settles out creates for the reader the most ultimately satisfying and suspenseful "what-if" romance imaginable.
February 8, 2013
A forbidden romance between a Hollywood actress and an Amish furniture maker. Where socially liberal meets morally conservative – Alrighty you’ve got my attention!
Temptation by Kathryn Barrett is a strong debut novel, about forbidden love, choices and consequences.
Laura moves to Pennsylvania's Amish country to film her next movie, once she gets there she is so taken with the simplistic way of life that she decides to put down roots and buys herself a house.
The house also comes with a very attractive neighbor and it isn't long before Jacob and Laura strike a friendship, they are both intrigued and attracted to each other. Jacob talks Laura into taking up gardening and before you know it Laura is gardening and baking plum pies and loving it.
Though Laura and Jacob are attracted to each other and have feelings for each other they face major obstacles. In order for Laura and Jacob to have any kind of relationship Laura would either have to become Amish – and that would mean giving up her career and her whole way of life or for Jacob to leave his church, his family and become “English”. Read More
Temptation by Kathryn Barrett is a strong debut novel, about forbidden love, choices and consequences.
Laura moves to Pennsylvania's Amish country to film her next movie, once she gets there she is so taken with the simplistic way of life that she decides to put down roots and buys herself a house.
The house also comes with a very attractive neighbor and it isn't long before Jacob and Laura strike a friendship, they are both intrigued and attracted to each other. Jacob talks Laura into taking up gardening and before you know it Laura is gardening and baking plum pies and loving it.
Though Laura and Jacob are attracted to each other and have feelings for each other they face major obstacles. In order for Laura and Jacob to have any kind of relationship Laura would either have to become Amish – and that would mean giving up her career and her whole way of life or for Jacob to leave his church, his family and become “English”. Read More
February 18, 2013
If you have been reading my blog this year you may have noticed my love of Entangled Publishing books. Their publicists are awesome at selling you on their books. And then after you read a few all I have to do is get an email from a publicist I know is from Entangled, glance through and make sure it's a type of book I read and then I quickly shoot back an email and beg for the book. Entangled is really a great publishing house and is really being noticed. And I am thrilled. It's fun to have followed them since almost the beginning and see how they have grown. I honestly want to read all of their books and try to get as many of them for review as I can. So the other day I was going through Netgalley and Temptation caught my eye. Hmmm, I hadn't gotten a note on that one, but the premise is interesting, so I requested it, got it and read it over the weekend. And the verdict, another winner for Entangled.
So to the actual book. I have read Amish fiction on and off for several years now and really enjoy it, but let me tell you if you shy away from it, this is not your typical Amish fiction novel. It's called Temptation for a reason. But don't let that scare you either. I felt that Ms. Barrett handled a tough and interesting situation very well. What you have is a woman who is an actress, but basically, Laura is a good woman, she wants to be an actress but she wants to escape from some of the trapping of her life (her mother for one, and some other leeches on her life as well) and while she is making a movie focused on an Amish character she finds peace in a house she buys and the people around her even though they don't always like her. And she finds Jacob, an attractive Amish widower with a child and a mother who is facing his own battles within himself as well. Of course the sparks fly between the two of them, but Jacob is strong in his faith and tries to stay away from Laura. I won't give much else away, but a lot of the book is a struggle. I had a hard time reading at times because I could feel the struggle of both characters, more of Jacob's. At times I felt that Laura thought things were too easy, but as the book progressed she grew and I became less frustrated with her.
I loved the characters. Even with my frustration with Laura, I really liked her. She had a good heart, she was just trying to find her way. And in Hollywood today we know that can be so hard. Jacob I truly admired for his battle between his heart, mind and his faith. I found some of the Amish to be so strict but I understand they have to be that way. But I loved the Bishop and his gentle way. He was one of those guiding leaders that taught by instructing to follow what was in your heart and let God guide you. He never seemed judgmental and I really liked him and I really like how things work out with him.
Temptation is truly a different type of romance and Amish book. I applaud Ms. Barrett for writing it. I truly enjoyed it the whole time I was reading it because I didn't know what would happen. It truly felt real, the struggles were tough and they meant something to the characters. They weren't whims that they could just decide on and not care the next day. They were deep decisions not to be taken lightly. It was a fascinating story and I am really glad I found it and read it. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys reading about the Amish and reading a good romance (warning again this is not your typical Amish romance, it involves an Englisher involved with an Amish). It's not hot and steamy throughout, but let's just say it can get interesting in a good way ;) I'll end this review with a simple well done Ms. Barrett.
My Rating: 4.5/5
So to the actual book. I have read Amish fiction on and off for several years now and really enjoy it, but let me tell you if you shy away from it, this is not your typical Amish fiction novel. It's called Temptation for a reason. But don't let that scare you either. I felt that Ms. Barrett handled a tough and interesting situation very well. What you have is a woman who is an actress, but basically, Laura is a good woman, she wants to be an actress but she wants to escape from some of the trapping of her life (her mother for one, and some other leeches on her life as well) and while she is making a movie focused on an Amish character she finds peace in a house she buys and the people around her even though they don't always like her. And she finds Jacob, an attractive Amish widower with a child and a mother who is facing his own battles within himself as well. Of course the sparks fly between the two of them, but Jacob is strong in his faith and tries to stay away from Laura. I won't give much else away, but a lot of the book is a struggle. I had a hard time reading at times because I could feel the struggle of both characters, more of Jacob's. At times I felt that Laura thought things were too easy, but as the book progressed she grew and I became less frustrated with her.
I loved the characters. Even with my frustration with Laura, I really liked her. She had a good heart, she was just trying to find her way. And in Hollywood today we know that can be so hard. Jacob I truly admired for his battle between his heart, mind and his faith. I found some of the Amish to be so strict but I understand they have to be that way. But I loved the Bishop and his gentle way. He was one of those guiding leaders that taught by instructing to follow what was in your heart and let God guide you. He never seemed judgmental and I really liked him and I really like how things work out with him.
Temptation is truly a different type of romance and Amish book. I applaud Ms. Barrett for writing it. I truly enjoyed it the whole time I was reading it because I didn't know what would happen. It truly felt real, the struggles were tough and they meant something to the characters. They weren't whims that they could just decide on and not care the next day. They were deep decisions not to be taken lightly. It was a fascinating story and I am really glad I found it and read it. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys reading about the Amish and reading a good romance (warning again this is not your typical Amish romance, it involves an Englisher involved with an Amish). It's not hot and steamy throughout, but let's just say it can get interesting in a good way ;) I'll end this review with a simple well done Ms. Barrett.
My Rating: 4.5/5
April 12, 2013
Not only is Temptation's story a wonderfully unique concept, but I fell instantly in love with Kathryn Barrett’s writing. It was captivating and flew smoothly, sucking the reader in, and not letting go until reaching ‘The End’ (I know what I’m talking about, I read it ’till 4am, but it was SO worth it!).
I’ll start with a disclaimer so you know what to expect from this novel. Although Temptation is set in Amish county and its hero and many of its secondary characters are Amish, it is not a Christian or inspirational romance. Temptation is a contemporary romance featuring a modern heroine rediscovering life and falling in love in an Amish setting.
Laura came to this small Amish town as an outsider, not enjoying the shallow and glitzy celebrity life and wanting to fully experience the everyday life of the Amish people out of sheer curiosity, interest and dedication for her role. I found Laura a heroine I could really like because she was genuine, unpretentious, kind and relatable. When we “meet” her at the beginning of the story she is quite unhappy, her marriage was a failure, her mother is trying to run her life and she just doesn’t feel content, confident or at peace in her own skin. But as she discovers the way of a simpler life, and through the kindness of the people and the pleasure of tending to her small garden she discovers peace and happiness. And then there is her attraction, admiration and lust for Jacob, an Amish widower, whose wood furnitures amaze her.
Jacob was a hero I’m sure I will never forget. His humility, deep-felt sense of honour and integrity branded him forever in my mind, as well as his reverent love for Laura and his passion for wood and creating furniture:
"Wood fascinated him. No manmade substance was quite as practical, and certainly not as beautiful. He stroked the piece of cherry, admiring its properties, its intricacies, its willingness to bend to man’s desires…up to a point. It adapted in the face of hardship: weevils, stress, heat, cold, a thousand natural shocks that only made it more desirable."
But do not think he is a stuffy, old man, oh no, he was quite the Amish hunk: handsome and passionate! You just have to “meet” him!
Kathryn Barrett made a fantastic job portraying the differences between Laura’s and Jacob’s world
"A phone call—so forbidden for him, an everyday necessity for her."
and introducing the Amish beliefs and lifestyle to her readers. Being European, before reading Temptation I didn’t know much about the Amish, so I found it fascinating learning about their customs and rules. Kathryn Barrett did it all in a very interesting way without coming off as preachy or boring, to the contrary it was captivating!
“It’s not good to be different. Not here, among us,” he clarified. “It’s a sin to be an individual. To set oneself apart. To want to do something better than anyone else.”
Temptation is an amazing melding of some thought-provoking ideas:
“Tell me, why has God given us this need to know if he will only punish us when we ask these questions?”
A smile lifted his gray beard. “Because it is those questions that make our journey so interesting.”
unexpected chuckle out loud humour:
"The women inside greeted her warmly, with the exception of Rachel Hostetler, who looked at her as if she suspected Laura was on the advance team from Gomorra."
“I’m having guy problems.”
“I didn’t know you were dating anyone.”
“I’m not.” She sighed. “Oh, Meg, I think I’ve turned into a sexual predator. I’m really attracted to this guy. I attacked him on the set today, a full frontal assault—”
“You kissed him?” Meg asked, used to her sister’s hyperbole.
and words that just bleed passion and will tug at your heart-strings:
"His crimes on the library computer were minor compared to the sins that filled his heart lately. Confessing to the sin of using the Internet was a small price to pay for absolution, but he doubted God would grant it. He’d just have to stay away from Laura Hayes from now on. Forget that moment in the buggy. Forget the way her hair smelled and her face glowed. Forget the way his heart begged to be with her."
Verdict: Temptation was so different from the usual contemporary romances, its premise and setting were unique, and with Kathryn Barrett’s storytelling Laura and Jacob’s story was thought-provoking and deeply moving. Although Temptation is a story rich in secondary plotlines like portraying the Amish way of live, their beliefs and customs, it is at its core a love story. A powerful and all-encompassing love story between two people living very different lives who aren’t that different when it comes to what is really important. With wonderful characterizations, an easily flowing and captivating writing style Kathryn Barrett wowed me from start to finish. I discovered a new favourite author and I urge you all to discover her yourself, you’ll thank me! :-)
I give Temptation 4.5 stars!
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Cover: 8/10 - representing parts of the story, it suits it well.
I’ll start with a disclaimer so you know what to expect from this novel. Although Temptation is set in Amish county and its hero and many of its secondary characters are Amish, it is not a Christian or inspirational romance. Temptation is a contemporary romance featuring a modern heroine rediscovering life and falling in love in an Amish setting.
Laura came to this small Amish town as an outsider, not enjoying the shallow and glitzy celebrity life and wanting to fully experience the everyday life of the Amish people out of sheer curiosity, interest and dedication for her role. I found Laura a heroine I could really like because she was genuine, unpretentious, kind and relatable. When we “meet” her at the beginning of the story she is quite unhappy, her marriage was a failure, her mother is trying to run her life and she just doesn’t feel content, confident or at peace in her own skin. But as she discovers the way of a simpler life, and through the kindness of the people and the pleasure of tending to her small garden she discovers peace and happiness. And then there is her attraction, admiration and lust for Jacob, an Amish widower, whose wood furnitures amaze her.
Jacob was a hero I’m sure I will never forget. His humility, deep-felt sense of honour and integrity branded him forever in my mind, as well as his reverent love for Laura and his passion for wood and creating furniture:
"Wood fascinated him. No manmade substance was quite as practical, and certainly not as beautiful. He stroked the piece of cherry, admiring its properties, its intricacies, its willingness to bend to man’s desires…up to a point. It adapted in the face of hardship: weevils, stress, heat, cold, a thousand natural shocks that only made it more desirable."
But do not think he is a stuffy, old man, oh no, he was quite the Amish hunk: handsome and passionate! You just have to “meet” him!
Kathryn Barrett made a fantastic job portraying the differences between Laura’s and Jacob’s world
"A phone call—so forbidden for him, an everyday necessity for her."
and introducing the Amish beliefs and lifestyle to her readers. Being European, before reading Temptation I didn’t know much about the Amish, so I found it fascinating learning about their customs and rules. Kathryn Barrett did it all in a very interesting way without coming off as preachy or boring, to the contrary it was captivating!
“It’s not good to be different. Not here, among us,” he clarified. “It’s a sin to be an individual. To set oneself apart. To want to do something better than anyone else.”
Temptation is an amazing melding of some thought-provoking ideas:
“Tell me, why has God given us this need to know if he will only punish us when we ask these questions?”
A smile lifted his gray beard. “Because it is those questions that make our journey so interesting.”
unexpected chuckle out loud humour:
"The women inside greeted her warmly, with the exception of Rachel Hostetler, who looked at her as if she suspected Laura was on the advance team from Gomorra."
“I’m having guy problems.”
“I didn’t know you were dating anyone.”
“I’m not.” She sighed. “Oh, Meg, I think I’ve turned into a sexual predator. I’m really attracted to this guy. I attacked him on the set today, a full frontal assault—”
“You kissed him?” Meg asked, used to her sister’s hyperbole.
and words that just bleed passion and will tug at your heart-strings:
"His crimes on the library computer were minor compared to the sins that filled his heart lately. Confessing to the sin of using the Internet was a small price to pay for absolution, but he doubted God would grant it. He’d just have to stay away from Laura Hayes from now on. Forget that moment in the buggy. Forget the way her hair smelled and her face glowed. Forget the way his heart begged to be with her."
Verdict: Temptation was so different from the usual contemporary romances, its premise and setting were unique, and with Kathryn Barrett’s storytelling Laura and Jacob’s story was thought-provoking and deeply moving. Although Temptation is a story rich in secondary plotlines like portraying the Amish way of live, their beliefs and customs, it is at its core a love story. A powerful and all-encompassing love story between two people living very different lives who aren’t that different when it comes to what is really important. With wonderful characterizations, an easily flowing and captivating writing style Kathryn Barrett wowed me from start to finish. I discovered a new favourite author and I urge you all to discover her yourself, you’ll thank me! :-)
I give Temptation 4.5 stars!
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Cover: 8/10 - representing parts of the story, it suits it well.
March 3, 2013
Originally Posted on What I'm Reading
The past couple of days I have been reading Temptation by Kathryn Barrett. I must that it was awesome. Seriously, an amazing story. When I first started reading Temptation I wasn't sure what to expect.
You first meet Laura Hayes who happens to visit an Amish community before they start filming The Temptation of Hannah. Which happens to be about an Amish woman who commits a terrible sin for something she really wants. So, she has been getting to know the people of the area.
While there Laura gets to know Jacob Hostetler and finds herself attracted to him. Jacob is dealing with a lot of questions and with Laura coming to town only confuses him more.
Loved this story. I was amazed on how well this book was written. I mean I don't normally go for the forbidden love, but man this was amazing. I love how Jacob is fighting his inner conflict with trying to do what is right and what he wants. Then you have Laura who trying to tempt him from breaking from his Ordnung. As she gets to know him and the roll she's playing she starts to find her real-self.
If you can't guess it, I love this book. I love the title and the cover, because it fits the story so well. Ms. Barrett obviously did her research to produce such a wonderful read. Once I dove right into the story, I found myself not wanting to stop reading. If you get a chance to read Temptation, I would say go for it. If are a fan of forbidden love, this book is right up your alley.
Copy provide by the publisher.
The past couple of days I have been reading Temptation by Kathryn Barrett. I must that it was awesome. Seriously, an amazing story. When I first started reading Temptation I wasn't sure what to expect.
You first meet Laura Hayes who happens to visit an Amish community before they start filming The Temptation of Hannah. Which happens to be about an Amish woman who commits a terrible sin for something she really wants. So, she has been getting to know the people of the area.
While there Laura gets to know Jacob Hostetler and finds herself attracted to him. Jacob is dealing with a lot of questions and with Laura coming to town only confuses him more.
Loved this story. I was amazed on how well this book was written. I mean I don't normally go for the forbidden love, but man this was amazing. I love how Jacob is fighting his inner conflict with trying to do what is right and what he wants. Then you have Laura who trying to tempt him from breaking from his Ordnung. As she gets to know him and the roll she's playing she starts to find her real-self.
If you can't guess it, I love this book. I love the title and the cover, because it fits the story so well. Ms. Barrett obviously did her research to produce such a wonderful read. Once I dove right into the story, I found myself not wanting to stop reading. If you get a chance to read Temptation, I would say go for it. If are a fan of forbidden love, this book is right up your alley.
Copy provide by the publisher.
February 26, 2013
Laura is a career Hollywood star since infancy and is in Amish Country for her newest role that is being filmed there.
One day, Laura finds herself in the barn of one of local furniture makers to purchase a cradle for her sister. She is find herself attracted to the widow furniture maker, Jacob (and for Jacob as well).
But for the Amish way this is just a forbidden temptation. Laura finds herself enjoying the simple life the Amish but will it be enough for her to settle down and call the country side home. Will Jacob give into temptation and proverbially bite the apple to discover love once again?
When I saw the cover picture and read the synopsis of the book, the first thing that came to my mind was Adam and Eve. Then the locale that the author chooses for the book is just a hop, skip and a jump across the Susquehanna River for me (Lancaster, PA. I personally find it interesting when I see locales that are from this area.)
As you read the story you can tell that the author truly did her homework with research when it comes to the cultural and other aspects of the Amish community.
The story was a great contemporary read that I enjoyed.
I received the ARC book for an honesty opinion.
One day, Laura finds herself in the barn of one of local furniture makers to purchase a cradle for her sister. She is find herself attracted to the widow furniture maker, Jacob (and for Jacob as well).
But for the Amish way this is just a forbidden temptation. Laura finds herself enjoying the simple life the Amish but will it be enough for her to settle down and call the country side home. Will Jacob give into temptation and proverbially bite the apple to discover love once again?
When I saw the cover picture and read the synopsis of the book, the first thing that came to my mind was Adam and Eve. Then the locale that the author chooses for the book is just a hop, skip and a jump across the Susquehanna River for me (Lancaster, PA. I personally find it interesting when I see locales that are from this area.)
As you read the story you can tell that the author truly did her homework with research when it comes to the cultural and other aspects of the Amish community.
The story was a great contemporary read that I enjoyed.
I received the ARC book for an honesty opinion.
September 20, 2013
*I received a free ARC of Temptation from Entangled Publishing via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review*
Temptation is a beautiful story, of temptation, and of courage.
This and other reviews can also be found on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews.
Temptation is a beautiful story, about temptation, courage and love. Laura arrives in Pennsylvania to film her next movie, and little does she know how much temptation she will find in Amish country. When she first meets Jacob, she only wants to order a crib for her niece, and she notices how much he is a man – even if he is very different from all the men she has met before.
Temptation is a beautiful story, of temptation, and of courage.
This and other reviews can also be found on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews.
Temptation is a beautiful story, about temptation, courage and love. Laura arrives in Pennsylvania to film her next movie, and little does she know how much temptation she will find in Amish country. When she first meets Jacob, she only wants to order a crib for her niece, and she notices how much he is a man – even if he is very different from all the men she has met before.
March 31, 2013
Originally published at Reading Reality
Anything forbidden always seems so terribly tempting.
Laura Hayes is not merely an actress, she's also a celebrity. She enjoys the "work" but not the trappings that go with it. Including the mother who only sees Laura for what she can buy for her, and the ex-husband still trying to sponge off her. Laura longs for a "real life" like her sister Meg.
Jacob Hostetler is an Amish furniture maker. He enjoys the work but he longs to make the designs that are in his mind, designs that are more than the "Plain" designs permitted by his faith. He is inspired to make works of art modeled after the Arts and Crafts work of Frank Lloyd Wright that he has seen pictured in forbidden books he's borrowed from the public library.
These are two people who should never meet. But Laura is making a movie in Lancaster, PA, about an Amish woman who commits adultery to give her husband a son. It's a long film shoot, and Laura is tired of living in hotels and inns. She buys a house in Lancaster. Then she goes into Jacob's shop to buy a cradle for her sister's new baby.
Jacob is a widower. He never expected to find another woman who would fascinate him the way his late wife Susannah did.
Laura never thought that any of the Amish men would be young, not to mention gorgeous.
Lightning strikes where it shouldn't.
Through one very long summer, as Laura films a movie about an Amish woman committing an act that she would definitely be shunned for, Laura and Jacob meet, continue to draw sparks from each other, and pull away, both stung and stunned.
Laura doesn't understand the cost to Jacob if they act on what they feel. After all, they are both single and unattached.
Jacob has a young son and a mother. If he leaves the community, he loses them, and they lose his support. The price is high.
But he can't keep away. He tries to be just a good neighbor, helping Laura with her garden, fixing her porch roof when it breaks. making furniture when she asks.
There is always more between them, not acted upon, but not always unspoken.
And someone leaves Laura nasty notes because they know her relationship with Jacob is a threat.
While Jacob questions everything that he ever believed, because he also wants to build the furniture he wants, and not only the furniture he is supposed to. Cutting himself off from his art is like cutting off part of his soul.
His art is half of his soul, and Laura may be the other half. Without either of them, what does he have left?
Escape Rating B: The love story simmers through the whole book, and you can't help but get caught up in the "will they/won't they" question. As the reader, you want them to have a happy ending, but because of the bigger questions, you're not entirely sure what a "happy ending" really means.
Part of the happy ending, outside of the love story, is that Laura needs to put on her "big girl panties" and deal with her mother and the other leeches surrounding her celebrity life. She needs to get control of herself before she can give that self to anyone else.
It was good that it takes quite a while before you figure out who the "evildoer" is. There shouldn't have been any easy answers in this one, because this is not about black and white questions.
The "forbidden fruit" aspects of the love story made for good fiction, but I can't help but wonder how close to the Amish way of life the portrayal of Jacob might be. (Reviewer's note: My husband grew up in Lancaster, and he just shook his head at the description of the plot)
This story was still fascinating, and I couldn't put it down. It also makes me want to go and watch the movie Witness.
Anything forbidden always seems so terribly tempting.
Laura Hayes is not merely an actress, she's also a celebrity. She enjoys the "work" but not the trappings that go with it. Including the mother who only sees Laura for what she can buy for her, and the ex-husband still trying to sponge off her. Laura longs for a "real life" like her sister Meg.
Jacob Hostetler is an Amish furniture maker. He enjoys the work but he longs to make the designs that are in his mind, designs that are more than the "Plain" designs permitted by his faith. He is inspired to make works of art modeled after the Arts and Crafts work of Frank Lloyd Wright that he has seen pictured in forbidden books he's borrowed from the public library.
These are two people who should never meet. But Laura is making a movie in Lancaster, PA, about an Amish woman who commits adultery to give her husband a son. It's a long film shoot, and Laura is tired of living in hotels and inns. She buys a house in Lancaster. Then she goes into Jacob's shop to buy a cradle for her sister's new baby.
Jacob is a widower. He never expected to find another woman who would fascinate him the way his late wife Susannah did.
Laura never thought that any of the Amish men would be young, not to mention gorgeous.
Lightning strikes where it shouldn't.
Through one very long summer, as Laura films a movie about an Amish woman committing an act that she would definitely be shunned for, Laura and Jacob meet, continue to draw sparks from each other, and pull away, both stung and stunned.
Laura doesn't understand the cost to Jacob if they act on what they feel. After all, they are both single and unattached.
Jacob has a young son and a mother. If he leaves the community, he loses them, and they lose his support. The price is high.
But he can't keep away. He tries to be just a good neighbor, helping Laura with her garden, fixing her porch roof when it breaks. making furniture when she asks.
There is always more between them, not acted upon, but not always unspoken.
And someone leaves Laura nasty notes because they know her relationship with Jacob is a threat.
While Jacob questions everything that he ever believed, because he also wants to build the furniture he wants, and not only the furniture he is supposed to. Cutting himself off from his art is like cutting off part of his soul.
His art is half of his soul, and Laura may be the other half. Without either of them, what does he have left?
Escape Rating B: The love story simmers through the whole book, and you can't help but get caught up in the "will they/won't they" question. As the reader, you want them to have a happy ending, but because of the bigger questions, you're not entirely sure what a "happy ending" really means.
Part of the happy ending, outside of the love story, is that Laura needs to put on her "big girl panties" and deal with her mother and the other leeches surrounding her celebrity life. She needs to get control of herself before she can give that self to anyone else.
It was good that it takes quite a while before you figure out who the "evildoer" is. There shouldn't have been any easy answers in this one, because this is not about black and white questions.
The "forbidden fruit" aspects of the love story made for good fiction, but I can't help but wonder how close to the Amish way of life the portrayal of Jacob might be. (Reviewer's note: My husband grew up in Lancaster, and he just shook his head at the description of the plot)
This story was still fascinating, and I couldn't put it down. It also makes me want to go and watch the movie Witness.
March 27, 2013
Laura Hayes is in Pennsylvania where her latest movie, The Temptation of Hannah, is being filmed. She is playing the part of an Amish woman, and where better to be than in the midst of Amish country. The Amish are known for their furniture building and Laura has found out that Jacob Hostetler is considered one of the best craftsman around. When she pulls up at his house to inquire about a cradle for her sister's new baby, the last thing she expects is to be completely taken by this swoon-worthy Amish man. Jacob is a widower and has a small son, Daniel. They live with his mother Rachel, who is also a widow. When Laura leaves the Hostetler's house to head back into town, Rachel notices shortly thereafter that Daniel is missing. This sparks a community-wide search for him. Meanwhile, when Rachel gets back to her room, she finds Daniel asleep under a quilt in the back. She and Daniel hit it off immediately and she promptly takes him back home, where she is welcomed and thanked for taking care of him, though a little reluctantly by Jacob. It also turns out that the house she has bought to live in just happens to be next door to Jacob. Laura is very attracted to Jacob, and though Jacob doesn't want to admit it, he feels the same way towards Laura. Because he knows this type of relationship is forbidden by his religion, he tries his hardest to stay away from her and keep things platonic, but every time they turn around something happens that throws them together.
Jacob also helps Laura start her garden, something she soon finds to be one of the most enjoyable things she has ever done. Laura also discovers that her attraction to Jacob goes much deeper, he has become her friend. She comes to realize that the life she has lead has left an empty hole, a hole that Jacob fills. Laura finds herself much like Eve in the garden, a temptress, and Jacob finds it very hard to resist the apple she is offering. He also finds that his feelings for Laura are much deeper than mere attraction also. Unfortunately, the Amish community is not happen about the film and it results in many of them refusing to have anything to do with Laura, and Laura even finds herself being threatened, not only by someone there wanting her to leave, but also by her ex-husband. Meanwhile, Jacob is also questioning his faith and many of the little things regarding it that are really bothering him. When circumstances finally crescendo, Jacob must decide if he is willing to choose love over his Amish way of life.
I thoroughly enjoyed temptation. It is obvious that Kathryn Barrett has invested a lot of time and research into the Amish way of life and has done an excellent job in conveying that in her story. I loved both Laura and Jacob. There was definitely chemistry between them, and though the temptation was definitely there, it wasn't something that Jacob didn't take lightly. The relationship transpired over months, building friendship, as well as love. Kathryn Barrett also did a wonderful job in conveying the members of the Amish society, their different characteristics, and their beliefs, enabling you to feel like you got to know them as individuals and not such as "Amish." I loved the romance between Laura and Jacob. This story of an English woman and an Amish man falling in love, and all the hardships and challenges they face along the way was very enjoyable, and kept me interested from start to finish. The book also ended very well, and there is a fantastic epilogue, which left me feeling very satisfied and happy about where the story went. If you are a romance lover, then you definitely should check out Temptation.
Jacob also helps Laura start her garden, something she soon finds to be one of the most enjoyable things she has ever done. Laura also discovers that her attraction to Jacob goes much deeper, he has become her friend. She comes to realize that the life she has lead has left an empty hole, a hole that Jacob fills. Laura finds herself much like Eve in the garden, a temptress, and Jacob finds it very hard to resist the apple she is offering. He also finds that his feelings for Laura are much deeper than mere attraction also. Unfortunately, the Amish community is not happen about the film and it results in many of them refusing to have anything to do with Laura, and Laura even finds herself being threatened, not only by someone there wanting her to leave, but also by her ex-husband. Meanwhile, Jacob is also questioning his faith and many of the little things regarding it that are really bothering him. When circumstances finally crescendo, Jacob must decide if he is willing to choose love over his Amish way of life.
I thoroughly enjoyed temptation. It is obvious that Kathryn Barrett has invested a lot of time and research into the Amish way of life and has done an excellent job in conveying that in her story. I loved both Laura and Jacob. There was definitely chemistry between them, and though the temptation was definitely there, it wasn't something that Jacob didn't take lightly. The relationship transpired over months, building friendship, as well as love. Kathryn Barrett also did a wonderful job in conveying the members of the Amish society, their different characteristics, and their beliefs, enabling you to feel like you got to know them as individuals and not such as "Amish." I loved the romance between Laura and Jacob. This story of an English woman and an Amish man falling in love, and all the hardships and challenges they face along the way was very enjoyable, and kept me interested from start to finish. The book also ended very well, and there is a fantastic epilogue, which left me feeling very satisfied and happy about where the story went. If you are a romance lover, then you definitely should check out Temptation.
January 14, 2015
I received a bound preview copy of this book, I believe via a goodreads.com First Reads drawing, several months ago. And I put off reading it when I discovered it was set in Amish country and the author had mentioned "capital-G" God in the first pages. Nope, not for me, I decided, and set it aside for a time of reading desperation, when I had nothing else at hand to read *and* reading a dead-tree book was my only option. Eventually, that situation arose, so I reluctantly started Temptation...
... and was so pleasantly surprised! It's a really good book! Far from being a religious romance, it's a tale of people from vastly different backgrounds and lifestyles who are drawn together by circumstance and mutual attraction. I found the dilemmas and plotlines to be nuanced and believable enough to keep me entertained and concerned about the major characters.
I do indeed recommend this book. And I apologize to the author for my closeminded recalcitrance. It was truly my loss.
... and was so pleasantly surprised! It's a really good book! Far from being a religious romance, it's a tale of people from vastly different backgrounds and lifestyles who are drawn together by circumstance and mutual attraction. I found the dilemmas and plotlines to be nuanced and believable enough to keep me entertained and concerned about the major characters.
I do indeed recommend this book. And I apologize to the author for my closeminded recalcitrance. It was truly my loss.
March 29, 2013
TEMPTATION is a fun glimpse into the life of the Amish. Kathryn Barrett makes the story come alive for readers with her distinctive voice. TEMPTATION is full of diverse characters, a rich and imaginative story, and a well thought out plot. This is story telling at its finest!
Laura Hayes has just moved to the small town of Serenity. She is an actress who is working on a film. She would like to purchase a cradle for her sister who is expecting a baby soon. When she ends up at Jacob Hostetler’s workshop she falls in love with his work. She would like for him to build a cradle for her, but at first he is reluctant to do so. After a little bit of coaxing, Jacob finally agrees to build the cradle.
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Laura Hayes has just moved to the small town of Serenity. She is an actress who is working on a film. She would like to purchase a cradle for her sister who is expecting a baby soon. When she ends up at Jacob Hostetler’s workshop she falls in love with his work. She would like for him to build a cradle for her, but at first he is reluctant to do so. After a little bit of coaxing, Jacob finally agrees to build the cradle.
http://romancejunkiesreviews.com/artm...
April 9, 2013
I usually don't read romance novels but for various reasons I decided to read this one. I'm so glad I did. I fell in love with the characters- even the not so lovable ones. They were so real, so believable that I was totally swept up in the story. And the story was wonderful - full of those sweet tender moments, the moments of self loathing and pain, confusion and clarity, that make up our days. .
Ms Barrett spins a really nice tale - cant wait to read her next one
Ms Barrett spins a really nice tale - cant wait to read her next one
July 16, 2015
Wow. I wasn't sure Ms. Barrett could pull off a romance between an Amish furniture maker and a Hollywood movie star, yet she did it with (believable) aplomb!
The language flows beautifully, with a comfortable, homey feel that draws you in and keeps you reading. I was particularly impressed with the depth of knowledge about the Amish community and woodworking - Ms. Barrett obviously did her research.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, contemporary romance!
The language flows beautifully, with a comfortable, homey feel that draws you in and keeps you reading. I was particularly impressed with the depth of knowledge about the Amish community and woodworking - Ms. Barrett obviously did her research.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, contemporary romance!
April 7, 2013
My kind of romance! Great character development, serious issues, and an ending that felt real and still gave me the happily ever after glow.
June 19, 2018
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I just ordered the others.
Temptation is a well-paced story of two people who fall in love, but for so many reasons should never be together. What will it take for their lives to join? I questioned that throughout the book. How can this possibly end - I questioned that. too. Most importantly, how can it end truthfully?
Temptation is honest, right to the end. Believable. There is no doubt that this story could happen.
Temptation is a well-paced story of two people who fall in love, but for so many reasons should never be together. What will it take for their lives to join? I questioned that throughout the book. How can this possibly end - I questioned that. too. Most importantly, how can it end truthfully?
Temptation is honest, right to the end. Believable. There is no doubt that this story could happen.
February 24, 2013
Laura is in location in Amish country for her next film. She feels strongly about the character she'll be playing and wants to portray her as authentically as she can, so she delves into the culture and its people to learn more about them. What she discovers is herself being attracted to Jacob, a widowed, Amish carpenter and a need to simplify her life and find herself.
When I first read the blurb I was immediately drawn to the story about the forbidden love between a Hollywood actress and an Amish man. Although the premise was a great one I have to say that it wasn't everything I had hope for. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the way the author, Kathryn Barrett, went about bringing the Amish aspect to the story, but there were some issues I found I could not overlook.
First, try as I might I could not connect to Laura in any way. She came across as selfish woman who was oblivious to Jacob's struggles. She was determined to have her way no matter the cost, without even thinking of sacrificing her career or her lifestyle over Jacob. I could not get over that, she didn't even consider the possibility, she just expected Jacob to leave everything he's ever known for her. Pfffft!
Also, although I enjoyed the fact that she was an actress, I did not need a play by play of the scenes she was filming. I still can't see what it brought to the story, only that it confused me to suddenly find myself reading what Hannah was doing and thinking. I think the story would have flowed better if it only focused on Laura and her feelings, regardless if they were being influenced by playing Hannah or not.
Last and certainly not least I could not find the romance part of the story believable. Even though their chemistry was palpable from the moment they met, I just could not picture Jacob, a strong, level-headed man, with a woman like Laura. I'm not saying that he was wrong in his decision to leave, I just think she was not worth the trouble. I want to be clear that the fact that the romance was not believable to me is mostly because I did not like Laura and not because the author did a poor job of developing it. Like I said the chemistry was there as well as the emotions from both characters, I just could not get over Laura selfishness.
Having said all that, I enjoyed Jacob's character, his development and his story. That is mainly why I am granting this book a three star rating. I encourage you to read Temptation because it is a lovely story of new beginnings and second chances. You might find you love it regardless of what I think.
I received this book from Entangled Publishing through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
When I first read the blurb I was immediately drawn to the story about the forbidden love between a Hollywood actress and an Amish man. Although the premise was a great one I have to say that it wasn't everything I had hope for. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the way the author, Kathryn Barrett, went about bringing the Amish aspect to the story, but there were some issues I found I could not overlook.
First, try as I might I could not connect to Laura in any way. She came across as selfish woman who was oblivious to Jacob's struggles. She was determined to have her way no matter the cost, without even thinking of sacrificing her career or her lifestyle over Jacob. I could not get over that, she didn't even consider the possibility, she just expected Jacob to leave everything he's ever known for her. Pfffft!
Also, although I enjoyed the fact that she was an actress, I did not need a play by play of the scenes she was filming. I still can't see what it brought to the story, only that it confused me to suddenly find myself reading what Hannah was doing and thinking. I think the story would have flowed better if it only focused on Laura and her feelings, regardless if they were being influenced by playing Hannah or not.
Last and certainly not least I could not find the romance part of the story believable. Even though their chemistry was palpable from the moment they met, I just could not picture Jacob, a strong, level-headed man, with a woman like Laura. I'm not saying that he was wrong in his decision to leave, I just think she was not worth the trouble. I want to be clear that the fact that the romance was not believable to me is mostly because I did not like Laura and not because the author did a poor job of developing it. Like I said the chemistry was there as well as the emotions from both characters, I just could not get over Laura selfishness.
Having said all that, I enjoyed Jacob's character, his development and his story. That is mainly why I am granting this book a three star rating. I encourage you to read Temptation because it is a lovely story of new beginnings and second chances. You might find you love it regardless of what I think.
I received this book from Entangled Publishing through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
February 25, 2015
It's difficult for me to rate this novel, because while I certainly enjoyed it, I wasn't completely sold by it. There were many little things that nagged me. Daniel, to name the first one: seemed to become a character at the beginning, then virtually disappeared from the narrative. His father didn't seem to spend much time with him, yet thought about him as his first responsability. The fact that almost all the women surrounding Jacob sounded like broken records: Rachel "You have to marry, you have to marry"; Laura: "Have sex with me, have sex with me"; Ada "Marry me marry me". I honestly don't get how a religious community would wish for a widower to remarry: isn't a chaste widowhood a virtue?
I liked Laura, but she sounded so insisting many times. This is not a temptation, this is defeat by annoyance!
The aspect I most enjoyed was that I couldn't tell since the beginning if it was Jacob who was going to leave the Amish, or Laura to enter the community. Maybe I should have remembered the lesson from Flowers from the Storm and guessed that
I liked Laura, but she sounded so insisting many times. This is not a temptation, this is defeat by annoyance!
The aspect I most enjoyed was that I couldn't tell since the beginning if it was Jacob who was going to leave the Amish, or Laura to enter the community. Maybe I should have remembered the lesson from Flowers from the Storm and guessed that
October 9, 2015
If I had to sum this book in one word it’d be IMPRESSIVE.
But, since I don’t have to use one word, let me elaborate. Kathryn Barrett is a new to me author and her writing is beyond impressive. Flawless in the way her story flowed together. Wonderful descriptions and such in depth characterization there were times I forgot I was reading a book with make believe characters instead of eavesdropping in a room full of living, breathing people.
From the get go this story had my attention. Actually, from the moment I read the blurb. I have never read an Amish love story, so was curious how this would play out since it involved an Amish man and a modern woman who just happens to be an actress. Talk about an internal struggle for each character, but Ms. Barrett managed to pull it off so that you just fell in love with both Laura and Jacob.
Even the secondary characters were great. They all added a wonderful element to the story that kept me turning the pages.
I also enjoyed the love scenes, which I wondered how Ms. Barrett would pull off, but she did another impressive job. She didn’t go overboard, which to me, kept the story more realistic.
Thank you Kathryn Barrett for a great read!
But, since I don’t have to use one word, let me elaborate. Kathryn Barrett is a new to me author and her writing is beyond impressive. Flawless in the way her story flowed together. Wonderful descriptions and such in depth characterization there were times I forgot I was reading a book with make believe characters instead of eavesdropping in a room full of living, breathing people.
From the get go this story had my attention. Actually, from the moment I read the blurb. I have never read an Amish love story, so was curious how this would play out since it involved an Amish man and a modern woman who just happens to be an actress. Talk about an internal struggle for each character, but Ms. Barrett managed to pull it off so that you just fell in love with both Laura and Jacob.
Even the secondary characters were great. They all added a wonderful element to the story that kept me turning the pages.
I also enjoyed the love scenes, which I wondered how Ms. Barrett would pull off, but she did another impressive job. She didn’t go overboard, which to me, kept the story more realistic.
Thank you Kathryn Barrett for a great read!
April 2, 2013
Notting Hill meets Witness, but without all the guns and killing and stuff.
Temptation was a delight. This multi-layered romance was well plotted, well written and introduced the unlikeliest of couples: Laura Hayes—from the Hollywood star-machine where ego is all and scrambling to beat the competition is a way of life—and Jacob Hostetler—an Amish carpenter who believes in simplicity, humility and community. Their attraction for one another is palpable, but although that they are neighbours, they are separated as surely as if prison walls surround their homes. The juxtaposition of the two cultures is a marvellous device and makes an enjoyably entertaining story.
But this is not merely a love story; Jacob and Laura are both seeking their own truths, and each wants more than their world is willing to give them. Additionally, Temptation offers sympathetic insight into the world of the Amish, which can be comforting and protecting but also cruel and unyielding.
I was captivated by this book. Its well-drawn characters—both heroes and villains—held my interest and kept me wondering right up to the final chapter.
Temptation was a delight. This multi-layered romance was well plotted, well written and introduced the unlikeliest of couples: Laura Hayes—from the Hollywood star-machine where ego is all and scrambling to beat the competition is a way of life—and Jacob Hostetler—an Amish carpenter who believes in simplicity, humility and community. Their attraction for one another is palpable, but although that they are neighbours, they are separated as surely as if prison walls surround their homes. The juxtaposition of the two cultures is a marvellous device and makes an enjoyably entertaining story.
But this is not merely a love story; Jacob and Laura are both seeking their own truths, and each wants more than their world is willing to give them. Additionally, Temptation offers sympathetic insight into the world of the Amish, which can be comforting and protecting but also cruel and unyielding.
I was captivated by this book. Its well-drawn characters—both heroes and villains—held my interest and kept me wondering right up to the final chapter.
February 17, 2013
This book tell the story of Laura who is in Amish Country to film her new film, is facing rejection from the Amish people who feel that she is an intrusion that they do not want in their home. To make things worse, she fall in love with Jacob, an Amish guy. From the beginning of the book, Jacob is struggling to hold onto his own belief and trying hard not to question them. But when he falls in love in Laura and facing the ultimate decision that he have to make, his belief started to waver.
This book is about belief against the forbidden love. One has to make the final decision on the choice that they want in their life. I was rather sceptical on Jacob initially as to whether he would choose his love for Laura or stay strong in his belief but i am happy in the end for the choice that he make. I find that the story line is rather dragging especially on the scene where the author narrated on the screenplay where Laura is playing the role of Hannah. Nevertheless, i enjoyed reading it !
This book is about belief against the forbidden love. One has to make the final decision on the choice that they want in their life. I was rather sceptical on Jacob initially as to whether he would choose his love for Laura or stay strong in his belief but i am happy in the end for the choice that he make. I find that the story line is rather dragging especially on the scene where the author narrated on the screenplay where Laura is playing the role of Hannah. Nevertheless, i enjoyed reading it !
August 1, 2013
I had a very similar reading experience with this book as On the Island. I wasn’t expecting anything earth-shattering or poignant, and I definitely didn’t find any of that here, but I wasn’t disappointed. This is the kind of book that if you go in with appropriate expectations, your reading experience will be perfectly satisfactory. I enjoyed the characters just fine, though not a whole lot really happened in the book. At times, I wondered if the book actually wouldn’t wrap up nicely, which I feel would have been authentic to the situation and the characters. But this was a romance novel, so of course we got a cheesy, too perfect epilogue, that I definitely would have been disappointed without. All in all, a fine reading experience, but nothing I’m going to remember forever.
Rating: 3 stars out of 5.
Rating: 3 stars out of 5.
April 20, 2015
Surprisingly good!!
I honestly couldn't imagine an Amish based romance novel would be any good. But, after seeing so many I decided to give one a try.
I'm glad I picked Temptation. The story is sweet, romantic, mysterious and suspenseful. The characters are well developed, the writing very good.
I loved the idea of an "English" woman tempting an Amish man. But, as you read more it's not just Laura that is giving Jacob such conflicting thoughts and desires.
Fun read, great for the beach or vacation.
The only reason I did not give this book 5 stars is the story was a little dragged out.
I honestly couldn't imagine an Amish based romance novel would be any good. But, after seeing so many I decided to give one a try.
I'm glad I picked Temptation. The story is sweet, romantic, mysterious and suspenseful. The characters are well developed, the writing very good.
I loved the idea of an "English" woman tempting an Amish man. But, as you read more it's not just Laura that is giving Jacob such conflicting thoughts and desires.
Fun read, great for the beach or vacation.
The only reason I did not give this book 5 stars is the story was a little dragged out.
December 31, 2015
Enchanting, entrancing, and so well written.
I have to admit, I wasn't sure it would be possible to pull off a romance between an Amish man and an actress. I just couldn't see how you could overcome such obstacles. But Kathryn Barrett does an amazing job of weaving a believable tale, one that draws you in and keeps you turning the pages. Her writing style is comfortable, homey, the kind you love to sink into.
I was impressed by the depth of knowledge about the Amish community, and about woodworking, which showed to me Ms. Barrett really did her research. I'm off to buy her next book, because she has become a favorite already.
I have to admit, I wasn't sure it would be possible to pull off a romance between an Amish man and an actress. I just couldn't see how you could overcome such obstacles. But Kathryn Barrett does an amazing job of weaving a believable tale, one that draws you in and keeps you turning the pages. Her writing style is comfortable, homey, the kind you love to sink into.
I was impressed by the depth of knowledge about the Amish community, and about woodworking, which showed to me Ms. Barrett really did her research. I'm off to buy her next book, because she has become a favorite already.
September 25, 2015
Laura was a tad bit too aggressive with Jacob considering the rest of her personality was not. I guess she had to be or nothing would have happened. This was a great story about fulfilling ourselves while still honoring God. Poor Jacob struggled with his choices and how to live a good life while still being faithful. Laura learned to take charge of her career and stop letting people take advantage of her. Together they found a way to make it work.
February 16, 2013
This is the first time I have read an Amish type book, after reading the synopsis I thought I would give it a try. I always seem to enjoy the Hollywood type books or books that involve actors of so sort. This book cover was cute.
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to see the rest of this review click here http://bsreviewers.blogspot.com I would love a follow!
March 13, 2014
Loved - LOVED - this one. Loved the writing, loved the story, loved the characters. Kathryn Barrett is a new to me author. I believe this is her first published novel. I certainly hope she writes lots more cause I will be reading whatever she writes. Ms. Barrett has a fan in me!
July 7, 2015
I wasn't sure about this book at first. It's been sitting in my library for awhile. But I'm so glad I finally got around to reading it. It turned out to be a really great read. I would definitely recommend it.
Read
February 18, 2013Lost interested in the first two chapters. DNF.
Want to read
March 25, 2013I don't know if it's me or the book, but I'm having a really hard time getting into it, so I'm shelving it for a while, may come back to it in the future.
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