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A Love Undone: An Amish Novel of Shattered Dreams and God's Unfailing Grace
A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone.A young woman who sacrificed her dreams.How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way? At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face. Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him – that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife has abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene. As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God's guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
82 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
68 books1,118 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
March 10, 2025
A Love Undone, by Cindy Wooldsmall
Jolene Keim: Amish 19 year old left wth 5 younger siblings after parent’s accident
Ray and Hope: two of Jolene’s five siblings
Andy Fisher: Amish horse trainer on a assignment in Jolene’s town
This book was a fun suggestion from a GR friend because the main character’s name is Jolene. (My name, being spelled Joleen, is often misspelled Jolene by others, which always looks odd to me.) But when I was cooking, listening to the book with text-to-speech, it was fun to hear my name. A first for me.
An enjoyable story by Cindy Woodsmall. I'd forgotten that I read a series by her just a few months ago. This is a stand alone book and very good.
Teaser:
On a stormy evening, as her parents were driving to a birthing, a tragic buggy accident left 19 year old Jolene suddenly responsible to raise five younger siblings.
Synopsis:
This is a story of faithful people who take their family responsibilities seriously. Of two people walking in a manner honoring to the Lord, but finding peace in the midst of distant longing they will not violate. A story of handling community accusations, and accepting God's will, leading to growth and maturity. But that’s not all...
This author knows how to end a book where you can sit back, sigh, and say, "Oh yeah... Now that's romance!"
Jolene Keim: Amish 19 year old left wth 5 younger siblings after parent’s accident
Ray and Hope: two of Jolene’s five siblings
Andy Fisher: Amish horse trainer on a assignment in Jolene’s town
This book was a fun suggestion from a GR friend because the main character’s name is Jolene. (My name, being spelled Joleen, is often misspelled Jolene by others, which always looks odd to me.) But when I was cooking, listening to the book with text-to-speech, it was fun to hear my name. A first for me.
An enjoyable story by Cindy Woodsmall. I'd forgotten that I read a series by her just a few months ago. This is a stand alone book and very good.
Teaser:
On a stormy evening, as her parents were driving to a birthing, a tragic buggy accident left 19 year old Jolene suddenly responsible to raise five younger siblings.
Synopsis:
This is a story of faithful people who take their family responsibilities seriously. Of two people walking in a manner honoring to the Lord, but finding peace in the midst of distant longing they will not violate. A story of handling community accusations, and accepting God's will, leading to growth and maturity. But that’s not all...
This author knows how to end a book where you can sit back, sigh, and say, "Oh yeah... Now that's romance!"
September 7, 2020
Plot: 10 years after her life is turned upside down with the deaths of her parents by drowning in a carriage accident on the same day, and her subsequent jilting by her fiancé, Jolene Kiem is struggling with feelings of bitterness and unhappiness, and raising her 4 younger siblings when a grass widower named Andy enters her life. Can they find a happily ever after? Or will they have to give up each other and on their love for each other’s reputation, and for propriety’s sake?
Rating: 4 stars
Recommend: for everyone ages 14+
Warnings: sad details about depression, animal abuse, mental illness, jilting, unwise love, accusations of adultery and loss of virginity, and drowning
What I didn’t like: Jolene fell in love with Andy before she knew anything about him, and the solution to her romantic crisis was evident to me too soon. Also her raising of her brother Ray was very uninvolved and faulty.
Read: 5/4-6/20
Rating: 4 stars
Recommend: for everyone ages 14+
Warnings: sad details about depression, animal abuse, mental illness, jilting, unwise love, accusations of adultery and loss of virginity, and drowning
What I didn’t like: Jolene fell in love with Andy before she knew anything about him, and the solution to her romantic crisis was evident to me too soon. Also her raising of her brother Ray was very uninvolved and faulty.
Read: 5/4-6/20
April 19, 2020
I enjoyed this book! The last three quarters had me captivated in the story. I really didn’t know how Woodsmall was going to end this! Nice job, Cindy! I would recommend!!
May 10, 2016
Cindy Woodsmall has a way of taking an ordinary Amish story and turning it into an extraordinary one. I devoured all 336 pages of this book. Overall, I highly recommend this story of "shattered dreams", of "love undone", and "God's unfailing grace." Read my full review - http://faithlovebooks.blogspot.com/20...
December 19, 2014
I do so love to read about the Amish, my Grandmother lives in a small town up north where we see Amish buggies in town all of the time. They do like to purchase things and see the homeopathic practitioner there.
On to the book....Joline Keim lost her parents both at the same time in a buggy accident. she was supposed to marry the love of her life Van, and he just couldn't take on her entire family of brothers and sisters younger than she, she wouldn't leave them to be split up, so she takes on the raising if her sister and brothers. and Van goes off and within a year is married to someone else. She meets horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year old. The book is really all about Andy being a "grass widower". Joline didn't hear him when he said he was a grass widower and she helps out with training horses that have been abused to get them to be ride able again. Joline thinks Andy is a free man being a widower to marry again and she falls for Andy almost from the first day
.
A Grass Widower is someone who marries and their spouse leaves, they can't divorce it isn't allowed and in Andy's case he does't even know where his spouse is she had a mental problem wouldn't be treated for it and just left one day and never contacted him again. Didn't try to see her son. So Andy is not someone who can be marriage material. Joline one day tells him how she feels about him, she also lets him into her secret, she paints paintings and she is good. Since their Bishop believes that pictures are not something that would be allowed by God she has to hide away in her Uncles Attic to paint.
So we have a husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone and a young woman who sacrificed her dream's, how will the God of grace and hope help them find their way, the book asks?
The book is rather complex in it's story. There is quite a bit of information on how the Amish live, not quite as much as I've seen in other stories. The book held my interest and I found myself reading when I should have been doing something else...a true sign that it is a interesting Amish story about a romance that can't happen and how they get around it or do they?
I got this book free from Good Reads I believe. Here is the description as found here on Good Reads: A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone.
A young woman who sacrificed her dreams.
How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way?
At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face.
Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him – that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife has abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene.
As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God's guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?
On to the book....Joline Keim lost her parents both at the same time in a buggy accident. she was supposed to marry the love of her life Van, and he just couldn't take on her entire family of brothers and sisters younger than she, she wouldn't leave them to be split up, so she takes on the raising if her sister and brothers. and Van goes off and within a year is married to someone else. She meets horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year old. The book is really all about Andy being a "grass widower". Joline didn't hear him when he said he was a grass widower and she helps out with training horses that have been abused to get them to be ride able again. Joline thinks Andy is a free man being a widower to marry again and she falls for Andy almost from the first day
.
A Grass Widower is someone who marries and their spouse leaves, they can't divorce it isn't allowed and in Andy's case he does't even know where his spouse is she had a mental problem wouldn't be treated for it and just left one day and never contacted him again. Didn't try to see her son. So Andy is not someone who can be marriage material. Joline one day tells him how she feels about him, she also lets him into her secret, she paints paintings and she is good. Since their Bishop believes that pictures are not something that would be allowed by God she has to hide away in her Uncles Attic to paint.
So we have a husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone and a young woman who sacrificed her dream's, how will the God of grace and hope help them find their way, the book asks?
The book is rather complex in it's story. There is quite a bit of information on how the Amish live, not quite as much as I've seen in other stories. The book held my interest and I found myself reading when I should have been doing something else...a true sign that it is a interesting Amish story about a romance that can't happen and how they get around it or do they?
I got this book free from Good Reads I believe. Here is the description as found here on Good Reads: A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone.
A young woman who sacrificed her dreams.
How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way?
At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face.
Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him – that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife has abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene.
As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God's guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?
October 4, 2020
Cindy Woodsmall's books about the Amish are not your usual Amish fare. Her characters have great depth, and they deal with insurmountable problems that can only be faced with God's grace.
Jolene Keim is the oldest of several siblings when her parents are killed in an accident. Although her wedding is only a few days away, she chooses to keep her family together, and since her fiance doesn't support her decision, their relationship is ended. Over the years, Jolene has made peace with her single life, investing herself into her brothers' and sisters' lives instead, and finding release in a forbidden passion - painting.
Until she meets Andy Fisher, who comes to her uncle's farm to care for some rescued horses. Jolene misunderstands Andy's widower status - she thinks he is free to marry again, but he is what the Amish call a "grass widower," a man whose wife has left him, but he is still considered married in Amish eyes. In this case, Andy's wife was mentally unstable and she has disappeared. As they care for the horses together, Jolene and Andy form a deep bond - each of them thinking that the other knows the marriage status, but feeling a powerful pull into each other's souls.
This is a novel of deep thoughts and soul-searching faith. How can Jolene go on when she finds out that she has fallen in love with a 'married' man? How can Andy pull back from a friendship that means everything to him? How will their faith see them through this trial? Does God in his infinite wisdom and grace have an answer for them?
Highly recommended for those who want a window into the lives of the Amish, not a stained glass or frosted window, but a clear, uncurtained view into the lives of those who live the Plain life.
Jolene Keim is the oldest of several siblings when her parents are killed in an accident. Although her wedding is only a few days away, she chooses to keep her family together, and since her fiance doesn't support her decision, their relationship is ended. Over the years, Jolene has made peace with her single life, investing herself into her brothers' and sisters' lives instead, and finding release in a forbidden passion - painting.
Until she meets Andy Fisher, who comes to her uncle's farm to care for some rescued horses. Jolene misunderstands Andy's widower status - she thinks he is free to marry again, but he is what the Amish call a "grass widower," a man whose wife has left him, but he is still considered married in Amish eyes. In this case, Andy's wife was mentally unstable and she has disappeared. As they care for the horses together, Jolene and Andy form a deep bond - each of them thinking that the other knows the marriage status, but feeling a powerful pull into each other's souls.
This is a novel of deep thoughts and soul-searching faith. How can Jolene go on when she finds out that she has fallen in love with a 'married' man? How can Andy pull back from a friendship that means everything to him? How will their faith see them through this trial? Does God in his infinite wisdom and grace have an answer for them?
Highly recommended for those who want a window into the lives of the Amish, not a stained glass or frosted window, but a clear, uncurtained view into the lives of those who live the Plain life.
June 11, 2018
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
While for many years I hesitated to pick up a novel involving the Amish, I have come to realize that I can count on Cindy Woodsmall to deliver a captivating story. (See Seasons of Tomorrow.) I’m glad I had the chance to read her newest novel, A Love Undone, and experience another heartfelt Amish novel. Woodsmall weaves together the storylines of multiple realistic characters to tell a story of family, loss, sacrifice and faith. It is authentically emotional and inspirational, and yet again, I find myself eager to read more from Cindy Woodsmall in the future. I recommend A Love Undone for any fans of Amish fiction. It’s a wonderful read.
Thanks to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of A Love Undone and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
While for many years I hesitated to pick up a novel involving the Amish, I have come to realize that I can count on Cindy Woodsmall to deliver a captivating story. (See Seasons of Tomorrow.) I’m glad I had the chance to read her newest novel, A Love Undone, and experience another heartfelt Amish novel. Woodsmall weaves together the storylines of multiple realistic characters to tell a story of family, loss, sacrifice and faith. It is authentically emotional and inspirational, and yet again, I find myself eager to read more from Cindy Woodsmall in the future. I recommend A Love Undone for any fans of Amish fiction. It’s a wonderful read.
Thanks to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of A Love Undone and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
March 25, 2016
This is an amazing book. I loved it!
January 24, 2015
Title: A LOVE UNDONE
Author: Cindy Woodsmall
Publisher: Waterbrook Press
September 2014
ISBN: 978-0307730008
Genre: Amish romance
A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone.
A young woman who sacrificed her dreams.
How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way?
At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face.
Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him – that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife has abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene.
As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God's guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?
A LOVE UNDONE is Ms. Woodsmall’s most recent book, a spin-off of one of her Christmas novellas about a woodcarver. Andy is a grass widower and above reproach in every way. Jolene tries not to act on her attraction, but being more outspoken than quiet she does take matters into her own hands with the result of things being made much worse.
A LOVE UNDONE starts very slow and it is a slow paced story. It doesn’t speed up much faster than a crawl which makes it easy to put down and skim-inducing at times. But I fell in love with Andy and Jolene. While I could guess at the ending I wanted to experience what happened between them and how. The ending was very sweet and romantic.
If you like Amish romance you won’t want to miss this book from a New York Times and CBA best-selling author. A book with plenty of provoking thoughts. Recommended.
4 stars. Available in ebook, paperback, hard cover, and audio book. 336 pages.
Author: Cindy Woodsmall
Publisher: Waterbrook Press
September 2014
ISBN: 978-0307730008
Genre: Amish romance
A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone.
A young woman who sacrificed her dreams.
How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way?
At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face.
Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him – that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife has abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene.
As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God's guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?
A LOVE UNDONE is Ms. Woodsmall’s most recent book, a spin-off of one of her Christmas novellas about a woodcarver. Andy is a grass widower and above reproach in every way. Jolene tries not to act on her attraction, but being more outspoken than quiet she does take matters into her own hands with the result of things being made much worse.
A LOVE UNDONE starts very slow and it is a slow paced story. It doesn’t speed up much faster than a crawl which makes it easy to put down and skim-inducing at times. But I fell in love with Andy and Jolene. While I could guess at the ending I wanted to experience what happened between them and how. The ending was very sweet and romantic.
If you like Amish romance you won’t want to miss this book from a New York Times and CBA best-selling author. A book with plenty of provoking thoughts. Recommended.
4 stars. Available in ebook, paperback, hard cover, and audio book. 336 pages.
October 9, 2014
I really loved this story! Readers first met Andy Fisher in the author’s book, The Dawn of Christmas. Andy is a side character, and is in a very strange and sad situation in his life. He is what is known as a “grass widower”. His wife left him and he is not allowed to divorce or remarry. He is stuck in limbo and I am so glad that Cindy Woodsmall shared this continuing story with us.
Both of the main characters in this story have been deeply hurt by people and events in their lives. I really admired both Jolene and Andy. Jolene persevered through deep emotional pain and fought to keep her family together and provide the best life she could for her siblings, even though it cost her dearly.
Andy and Jolene form a bond of friendship that quickly develops into something more. This is a huge complication that could potentially cause problems for them and their families.
I really enjoyed how the author handled this difficult scenario and wove God’s grace throughout the entire story. I loved this book from start to finish and highly recommend it to fans of Amish fiction.
My thanks to WaterBrook Press for the complimentary copy of this book that I received in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
Both of the main characters in this story have been deeply hurt by people and events in their lives. I really admired both Jolene and Andy. Jolene persevered through deep emotional pain and fought to keep her family together and provide the best life she could for her siblings, even though it cost her dearly.
Andy and Jolene form a bond of friendship that quickly develops into something more. This is a huge complication that could potentially cause problems for them and their families.
I really enjoyed how the author handled this difficult scenario and wove God’s grace throughout the entire story. I loved this book from start to finish and highly recommend it to fans of Amish fiction.
My thanks to WaterBrook Press for the complimentary copy of this book that I received in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
November 7, 2014
My Review The little Amish community supported and admired Jolene for giving up her life and marriage and taking on the job of raising her family after both parents were killed in a buggy accident. But it wasn't easy, and she had to take on a cleaning job to help with the expenses, along with help from family and those in her community. After ten years, and most of her siblings grown, Jolene meets Andy Fisher and sparks begin to fly between them. Sparks both good and bad because they didn't get along with each other, get there was something there that both didn't want to admit at first. But then Andy was out of the marriage ring because his wife had left years ago, and the Amish rules are, once married, always married unless death parts a couple. Which I think is a pretty harsh rule, but then I am not Amish. I did feel sorry for both Jolene and Andy, because life just wasn't being fair to either of them.
Cindy Woodsmall does a really good job of pulling this story together, weaving all of the difficulties and problems and giving it a real nice ending. This is an awesome story, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves Amish!
This book was given to me by Blogging for books and their blogging program. The opinions here are mine, and mine alone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
Cindy Woodsmall does a really good job of pulling this story together, weaving all of the difficulties and problems and giving it a real nice ending. This is an awesome story, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves Amish!
This book was given to me by Blogging for books and their blogging program. The opinions here are mine, and mine alone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
October 3, 2014
Jolene is only days away from getting married and following her dreams of painting when everything is snatched away. She's left grieving and trying to cope with the responsibilities she never expected to have. Ten years later she's accepted her life and worked to forgive those who abandoned her. And this is when she meets Andy. Andy is a grass widower (a man who cannot get married because his wife left). Andy and Jolene must come to grips with their friendship and what it means to them and the community.
As always, this author does a great job of pulling a story together that captures your attention. The characters were authentic and likeable. The smaller stories that were woven into the main plot added depth and made it more interesting. I like the way she weaves faith and love into the story without it being preachy. There wasn't a lot of mushy romance since most of the book was about the friendship between the two main characters. But what was there was sweet and well done. Despite the fact that I'm not fond of bonnet fiction, I'll always pick up a book by this author. She definitely has the gift of storytelling.
I received this book free of charge from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.
As always, this author does a great job of pulling a story together that captures your attention. The characters were authentic and likeable. The smaller stories that were woven into the main plot added depth and made it more interesting. I like the way she weaves faith and love into the story without it being preachy. There wasn't a lot of mushy romance since most of the book was about the friendship between the two main characters. But what was there was sweet and well done. Despite the fact that I'm not fond of bonnet fiction, I'll always pick up a book by this author. She definitely has the gift of storytelling.
I received this book free of charge from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2014
One of the most romantic books I've ever read. It left me breathless, rocked with the same deep emotions that Andy and Jolene experience. From devastating loss to hesitant hope to crushing defeat and ultimately incredible joy. I was an emotional basket case by the end of this read.
I love Jolene -- for the sacrifices she has made, the spunk that keeps her going, the pure love for her siblings which transcends common sense and harsh reality sometimes. We should all learn to love so completely and unselfishly. I so wanted a happily ever after for her and Woodsmall does deliver but she doesn't make it easy! For Jolene or the reader!
Andy is stalwart and kind and understanding...and unattainable. Oy. The heartache. The push and pull of wills and hearts. The determination to do the right thing at any cost. About broke my heart. To say I was emotionally engaged is an understatement.
An unforgettable story that celebrates God's grace and hope and His unfailing love.
I love Jolene -- for the sacrifices she has made, the spunk that keeps her going, the pure love for her siblings which transcends common sense and harsh reality sometimes. We should all learn to love so completely and unselfishly. I so wanted a happily ever after for her and Woodsmall does deliver but she doesn't make it easy! For Jolene or the reader!
Andy is stalwart and kind and understanding...and unattainable. Oy. The heartache. The push and pull of wills and hearts. The determination to do the right thing at any cost. About broke my heart. To say I was emotionally engaged is an understatement.
An unforgettable story that celebrates God's grace and hope and His unfailing love.
September 16, 2014
This story deeply touched my heart and it will also touch yours.
Jolene sacrifices a wedding in order to keep her family together. Years pass when she finally meets someone else but Andy is not able to marry, he is a grass widower. They love each other but cannot fulfill their love. Andy and Jolene go separate ways. But God is faithful in the end.
Jolene sacrifices a wedding in order to keep her family together. Years pass when she finally meets someone else but Andy is not able to marry, he is a grass widower. They love each other but cannot fulfill their love. Andy and Jolene go separate ways. But God is faithful in the end.
August 4, 2018
I love Cindy's books and the bad news is, I believe I have listened to all of them:-(
THIS SUMMARY/REVIEW WAS COPIED FROM OTHER SOURCES AND IS USED ONLY AS A REMINDER OF WHAT THE BOOK WAS ABOUT FOR MY PERSONAL INTEREST. ANY PERSONAL NOTATIONS ARE FOR MY RECOLLECTION ONLY
**
Cindy Woodsmall writes about difficult circumstances and true-to-life characters with skill and grace. There are three main characters in A Love Undone, in addition to the (mostly) sweet, complex cast surrounding them: Jolene, Andy, and Ray (Jolene's brother). These three have all been affected and changed by deep pain and tragedy, and more hardship threatens in the things unsaid or misunderstood.
Since Andy's history is clear from the book's description, I hope it won't be giving much away to compare the unfolding drama to Jane Eyre (as I'm sure others have noted!). While A Love Undone is a much brighter story, there's definitely a tension in the spark and passion that shouldn't be pursued. It makes this book a sad and difficult read in one sense, and yet...
**
**
Andy’s in a pretty unique situation among the Amish, he is a man who has been left by his wife, which is virtually unheard of. As the Amish do not believe in divorce—Andy is not free to open his heart to anyone. For six years, Andy has been raising his son alone and he’s had no problems keeping his marital vows—that is, until he meets Jolene Keim.
Jolene knew love once upon a time as well. At nineteen, she was set to marry the love her life.
Then, tragedy struck. Jolene’s parents were killed in a terrible accident and Jolene stepped in as a parent to her siblings. The problem is that her beau wasn’t ready for a ready-made family and he and Jolene ended up splitting up.
Jolene thought she would never love again, until she met Andy. She assumes that he is simply a widow. Once his situation comes to light—Jolene and Andy both try to put some distance between each other so that no one in the community can accuse them of adultery.
Unfortunately, some busy-body sticks her nose in where it doesn’t belong and nearly shatters the reputations of these two. It seems hopeless. (happens to be her bishop's 50 year old daughter) This romance is simply forbidden. In the eyes of the community and of God, Andy is married. Will Andy and Jolene be able to resist one another or will they put their faith and trust in the Lord?
THIS SUMMARY/REVIEW WAS COPIED FROM OTHER SOURCES AND IS USED ONLY AS A REMINDER OF WHAT THE BOOK WAS ABOUT FOR MY PERSONAL INTEREST. ANY PERSONAL NOTATIONS ARE FOR MY RECOLLECTION ONLY
**
Cindy Woodsmall writes about difficult circumstances and true-to-life characters with skill and grace. There are three main characters in A Love Undone, in addition to the (mostly) sweet, complex cast surrounding them: Jolene, Andy, and Ray (Jolene's brother). These three have all been affected and changed by deep pain and tragedy, and more hardship threatens in the things unsaid or misunderstood.
Since Andy's history is clear from the book's description, I hope it won't be giving much away to compare the unfolding drama to Jane Eyre (as I'm sure others have noted!). While A Love Undone is a much brighter story, there's definitely a tension in the spark and passion that shouldn't be pursued. It makes this book a sad and difficult read in one sense, and yet...
**
**
Andy’s in a pretty unique situation among the Amish, he is a man who has been left by his wife, which is virtually unheard of. As the Amish do not believe in divorce—Andy is not free to open his heart to anyone. For six years, Andy has been raising his son alone and he’s had no problems keeping his marital vows—that is, until he meets Jolene Keim.
Jolene knew love once upon a time as well. At nineteen, she was set to marry the love her life.
Then, tragedy struck. Jolene’s parents were killed in a terrible accident and Jolene stepped in as a parent to her siblings. The problem is that her beau wasn’t ready for a ready-made family and he and Jolene ended up splitting up.
Jolene thought she would never love again, until she met Andy. She assumes that he is simply a widow. Once his situation comes to light—Jolene and Andy both try to put some distance between each other so that no one in the community can accuse them of adultery.
Unfortunately, some busy-body sticks her nose in where it doesn’t belong and nearly shatters the reputations of these two. It seems hopeless. (happens to be her bishop's 50 year old daughter) This romance is simply forbidden. In the eyes of the community and of God, Andy is married. Will Andy and Jolene be able to resist one another or will they put their faith and trust in the Lord?
July 8, 2015
I’m thankful for the review copy of a book that reinforces the reason I read Christian Fiction. It also reminds me of this author’s first novel When the Heart Cries. It was a captivating heart-wrenching story and amazing series - I highly recommend. I loved how this author's emphasis was on God’s grace and love in the circumstances of the main character in When the Heart Cries and those around her. I see all that in this book as well along with other themes naturally running through we all can relate to: disappointment, unforgiveness, loss, redemption, pain, love, patience and a peace that passes all understanding; a gift given to us by God.
The reader first meets Jolene, a young lady in love, filled with hopes and dreams. She’s a woman forced to make a tough choice between what she wants and what is best for her family. She never second guesses herself or regrets her choice. She is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her family intact. Jolene does an amazing job of navigating the demands life has thrust upon her. Family is important, she works hard to keep life moving along for her siblings; hiding her feelings; and grief over what happened in her life. She has a heart of gold.
“She realized how little of herself she shared with loved ones. She’d closed up when the need to be a pillar of strength became nonstop….She no long had anyone she could open up to. Her siblings knew her love and faithfulness to them and to God, but she had to keep parts of herself locked away like her artwork.” (I liked reading about her art outlet)
I had taken this book with me on a retreat and was amazed that the themes of the weekend matched up with what I was reading in the pages of this novel. I was learning about how God could reclaim my numb heart and heal the hurts so I could feel free inside again. I saw Jolene and Andy walking this process out right before me. I saw how they allowed God to do a great healing in their hearts. Both were willing to be willing to do His will and have Him heal pain deep within producing a contentment they didn’t know was possible. Life isn’t fair – but God is there to pick up the pieces of our shattered hearts and make them into something beautiful. The end result often times is not at all what we expected or longed for. Sticking close to God can heal our hurts. He can speak life into the dead places if we let Him.
I know this is fiction but I connected with Jolene in a real way. I was emotionally spent over the tradgies and trials she went through in the confines of the Amish rules and ways. At the same time I was encouraged and inspired by this young lady. Jolene realized she had to, “Live life based on what you know to be true, not on what others think is true of you!” Amen!
Andy is a man who’s caught between a rock and a hard place. He’s stuck, not free to move on in life even if he wanted to. He’s an honorable man who is willing to do what must be done in order to protect his loved ones, regardless of the cost to himself. He stays true - respecting the Amish ways to remain with his family and part of his Amish order district. Andy is patient and caring for people and animals which is so obvious with the way he trains horses and deals with those around Him. He’s very insightful and funny.
Andy has agreed to help the Humane Society handle a herd of horses that have been mistreated. Andy seeks the help of a relative from another Amish district to accomplish the task. Jolene and Andy meet when Jolene volunteers to help with the horses, sparks fly and not at a good way at first. Andy doesn’t want Jolene to help him. It’s not woman’s work. She can get hurt. Jolene knows this job needs to be done soon. There are no men to help. She was a quick learner and was determined to help these animals. I loved learning about horses and how the trainers help calm them down and gain their trust.
Andy says to Jolene, “Has anyone told you that you’re a little annoying?” He couldn’t keep from smiling as he teased her. There was no way of knowing what she’d say to him.”
“Nope. (She replied) Not one person has used the word little with the phrase you’re annoying.”
I gave you a peek into this authors well timed humor. Andy realizes he needs her help to accomplish what he promised so he lets Jolene help. Andy is cautious about a deepening friendship with Jolene – He believes she knows the truth about his situation. Soon they both realize they can’t work together that’s when things get complicated.
There was one thing he wanted to give Jolene. “If Andy could, he would leave at the end of summer having given Jolene the gift of freedom; to wade in creeks, own a phone, and hold a conversation with Van without wanting to flee.” (Freedom the very thing God wants to give us)
The smaller stories lines woven into the bigger plot added a depth and richness to the overall story and made me feel part of their family. I liked Ray’s story; a boy who was struck by lightning and lived to tell about it. My heart went out to him in his struggles with life, and his anxieties. Finding his place in the community and dealing with his emotions was hard.
A friend says to him, “Maybe your definition of revenge is all wrong, Ray. There’s a saying I agree with – “The best revenge is massive success.” – To me, success is not ruining something at work……Maybe If we did something we liked, we’d actually be good at it.”
I was captivated and loved the many plot twists and turns. I liked how this author focused on relationships in reference to God, family and romance, I liked how Cindy Woodsmall talked about what real love is and what it isn't about - like rushing into fulfilling a longing in our heart or letting our life be run by our emotions. The patience and love Jolene and Andy had inside their hearts for one another was remarkable. They were willing to wait for God to give them the best for their family even when their family was rebellious – like Ray. They both showed an extraordinary love and patience for their Amish community and friends around them as well.
This author has 12 discussion questions in the back of the book to help create lively discussion for your meeting. This is a special book I highly recommend to book clubs. This story could have gone several different ways. Many of which would have my heart sick at the end. Cindy has a satisfying ending that brought a peace to my heart and a smile on my face. This book is a keeper.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Publisher 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”.
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network Blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
The reader first meets Jolene, a young lady in love, filled with hopes and dreams. She’s a woman forced to make a tough choice between what she wants and what is best for her family. She never second guesses herself or regrets her choice. She is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her family intact. Jolene does an amazing job of navigating the demands life has thrust upon her. Family is important, she works hard to keep life moving along for her siblings; hiding her feelings; and grief over what happened in her life. She has a heart of gold.
“She realized how little of herself she shared with loved ones. She’d closed up when the need to be a pillar of strength became nonstop….She no long had anyone she could open up to. Her siblings knew her love and faithfulness to them and to God, but she had to keep parts of herself locked away like her artwork.” (I liked reading about her art outlet)
I had taken this book with me on a retreat and was amazed that the themes of the weekend matched up with what I was reading in the pages of this novel. I was learning about how God could reclaim my numb heart and heal the hurts so I could feel free inside again. I saw Jolene and Andy walking this process out right before me. I saw how they allowed God to do a great healing in their hearts. Both were willing to be willing to do His will and have Him heal pain deep within producing a contentment they didn’t know was possible. Life isn’t fair – but God is there to pick up the pieces of our shattered hearts and make them into something beautiful. The end result often times is not at all what we expected or longed for. Sticking close to God can heal our hurts. He can speak life into the dead places if we let Him.
I know this is fiction but I connected with Jolene in a real way. I was emotionally spent over the tradgies and trials she went through in the confines of the Amish rules and ways. At the same time I was encouraged and inspired by this young lady. Jolene realized she had to, “Live life based on what you know to be true, not on what others think is true of you!” Amen!
Andy is a man who’s caught between a rock and a hard place. He’s stuck, not free to move on in life even if he wanted to. He’s an honorable man who is willing to do what must be done in order to protect his loved ones, regardless of the cost to himself. He stays true - respecting the Amish ways to remain with his family and part of his Amish order district. Andy is patient and caring for people and animals which is so obvious with the way he trains horses and deals with those around Him. He’s very insightful and funny.
Andy has agreed to help the Humane Society handle a herd of horses that have been mistreated. Andy seeks the help of a relative from another Amish district to accomplish the task. Jolene and Andy meet when Jolene volunteers to help with the horses, sparks fly and not at a good way at first. Andy doesn’t want Jolene to help him. It’s not woman’s work. She can get hurt. Jolene knows this job needs to be done soon. There are no men to help. She was a quick learner and was determined to help these animals. I loved learning about horses and how the trainers help calm them down and gain their trust.
Andy says to Jolene, “Has anyone told you that you’re a little annoying?” He couldn’t keep from smiling as he teased her. There was no way of knowing what she’d say to him.”
“Nope. (She replied) Not one person has used the word little with the phrase you’re annoying.”
I gave you a peek into this authors well timed humor. Andy realizes he needs her help to accomplish what he promised so he lets Jolene help. Andy is cautious about a deepening friendship with Jolene – He believes she knows the truth about his situation. Soon they both realize they can’t work together that’s when things get complicated.
There was one thing he wanted to give Jolene. “If Andy could, he would leave at the end of summer having given Jolene the gift of freedom; to wade in creeks, own a phone, and hold a conversation with Van without wanting to flee.” (Freedom the very thing God wants to give us)
The smaller stories lines woven into the bigger plot added a depth and richness to the overall story and made me feel part of their family. I liked Ray’s story; a boy who was struck by lightning and lived to tell about it. My heart went out to him in his struggles with life, and his anxieties. Finding his place in the community and dealing with his emotions was hard.
A friend says to him, “Maybe your definition of revenge is all wrong, Ray. There’s a saying I agree with – “The best revenge is massive success.” – To me, success is not ruining something at work……Maybe If we did something we liked, we’d actually be good at it.”
I was captivated and loved the many plot twists and turns. I liked how this author focused on relationships in reference to God, family and romance, I liked how Cindy Woodsmall talked about what real love is and what it isn't about - like rushing into fulfilling a longing in our heart or letting our life be run by our emotions. The patience and love Jolene and Andy had inside their hearts for one another was remarkable. They were willing to wait for God to give them the best for their family even when their family was rebellious – like Ray. They both showed an extraordinary love and patience for their Amish community and friends around them as well.
This author has 12 discussion questions in the back of the book to help create lively discussion for your meeting. This is a special book I highly recommend to book clubs. This story could have gone several different ways. Many of which would have my heart sick at the end. Cindy has a satisfying ending that brought a peace to my heart and a smile on my face. This book is a keeper.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Publisher 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”.
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network Blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
January 27, 2022
Ideally enjoyed this book. I thought it was a slow start but once I got a couple chapters in, I could not put it down.
Andy and Jolene have many obstacles to overcome before they can be together, if they can be together.
This book will make you laugh and cry at the same time.
Thank you WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers, and Netgalley for allowing me to read this title for an honest review.
Andy and Jolene have many obstacles to overcome before they can be together, if they can be together.
This book will make you laugh and cry at the same time.
Thank you WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers, and Netgalley for allowing me to read this title for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
The rules within the Amish world are so unforgiving. Jolene Kiem alters her life at nineteen to care for her five siblings when her parents are killed it a tragic accident. The sacrifice never seems to faze her. Jolene always Carrie’s on as if her time will come
This story just points out how shallow and petty people can be in any walk of life! While other people just seem to be begging for people to take advantage of them. Jolene faces it all!
This story just points out how shallow and petty people can be in any walk of life! While other people just seem to be begging for people to take advantage of them. Jolene faces it all!
November 13, 2024
This was my first time reading a novel of Woodsmall's. It took a while to trudge through if I am honest- not sure if its her writing style or what but I did enjoy the ending. I may have to give another one of her books a shot before I draw definite conclusions.
Also, I did notice how it was not as authentically Amish as some of the other authors I have been reading. Maybe that's why I wasn't too wooed.
Also, I did notice how it was not as authentically Amish as some of the other authors I have been reading. Maybe that's why I wasn't too wooed.
January 9, 2018
The Amish of Summer Grove characters made a surprise (to me) appearance in this wonderful book! I really enjoyed reading more of the members of the fictional family I have come to love. The plot was a wonderful blend of love and suspense. I stayed up way past my usual bedtime in order to finish the book!
February 26, 2023
Jolene is ready to start her married life when her parents are killed and she had to take care of her younger siblings. The wedding is cancelled, she later falls in love with a horse trainer not realizing that he is a 'grass widow' whose wife left him. Between her handicapped brother and the town gossiping about her she has troubled life.
June 3, 2025
An excellent book of love, grace, self control, and waiting on God.
There is tragedy, grief, doing the right thing and peace.
The importance of family is emphasized, as is reputation and community.
Anything else I can think to say would be a spoiler.
There is tragedy, grief, doing the right thing and peace.
The importance of family is emphasized, as is reputation and community.
Anything else I can think to say would be a spoiler.
February 24, 2017
Cindy Woodsmall has a way of drawing you to each character. Jolene Keim who has lost both parents and raising siblings. After a series of twist and turns this is a wonderful Story.
January 14, 2018
Sweet easy read.
September 28, 2018
Very endearing...
December 17, 2018
Cindy Woodsmall is Always a sure thing. A perfectly heartwarming story around Christmas.
April 8, 2020
This book was so good I had troubles putting it down a must read
April 19, 2020
Gave away
July 21, 2020
Good summer read
October 6, 2020
Delightful. Sincere. Lessons in God’s Grace being enough... A Truth I have discovered for myself.
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