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The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #5
Huckleberry Harvest
Anna and Felty Helmuth’s zest for matchmaking is unstoppable—and with grown-up grandchild number three on her way to their home in lovely Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin, what better reason to put their talents to work once more?...
When Mandy Helmuth hears that her best friend Kristina’s heart has been broken, she decides to visit her grandparents and cheer her up. Mandy never liked Noah Mischler anyway, with his rough exterior and outspoken ways. Unfortunately, she can’t avoid him—especially after he saves her life…
If he weren’t helping Felty with home repairs, Noah would be more than happy to stay away from uppity Mandy Helmuth. Of course, then he wouldn’t have been able to rescue her—and she wouldn’t have had the chance to discover the real Noah beneath the tough persona—the one she falls in love with…
When Mandy Helmuth hears that her best friend Kristina’s heart has been broken, she decides to visit her grandparents and cheer her up. Mandy never liked Noah Mischler anyway, with his rough exterior and outspoken ways. Unfortunately, she can’t avoid him—especially after he saves her life…
If he weren’t helping Felty with home repairs, Noah would be more than happy to stay away from uppity Mandy Helmuth. Of course, then he wouldn’t have been able to rescue her—and she wouldn’t have had the chance to discover the real Noah beneath the tough persona—the one she falls in love with…
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 26, 2015
85 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Beckstrand
60 books887 followersJennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, The Honeybee Sisters series, The Petersheim Brothers series and The Amish Quiltmaker series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Her sweet romantic Western series, Cowboys of the Butterfly Ranch, features feisty heroines and tough-as-nails cowboys sprinkled with Jennifer’s trademark humor and happy endings. Maggie and Max is the third book in that series. Dandelion Meadows is her new, sweet small-town romance series, set in a quirky little town in Idaho. Jennifer has written thirty-eight Amish romances, three sweet romantic Westerns, two sweet contemporaries, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. Jennifer is a member of ACFW and is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency. She and her husband have been married thirty-nine years, and she has six children and eleven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 5, 2022
Noah and mandy
I haven't cried from reading a book this much in along time. This book was superb. It was funny and sad. Noah was the perfect guy for Mandy. I enjoyed reading this book. Great author
I haven't cried from reading a book this much in along time. This book was superb. It was funny and sad. Noah was the perfect guy for Mandy. I enjoyed reading this book. Great author
May 3, 2015
‘The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill’ series continues to amaze me! Huckleberry Harvest is the fifth book in this series by Jennifer Beckstrand, and each one is better than the last. This one is funny, poignant, and refreshingly transparent; the author has candidly written about a difficult subject with love and dignity.
Anna and Felty Helmuth have been married for more than six decades, and ‘retired’ (not!) to beautiful acreage on top of Huckleberry Hill. Anna’s current goal is to see all of her adult grandchildren married to suitable Amish spouses. For those not yet married, she is providing ‘encouragement’ in the form of matchmaking. While Felty isn’t as sold on the idea, he loves to make his ‘Annie Bananie’ happy, so he helps when it doesn’t get too out of hand. This time Anna has set her sights on granddaughter Mandy, visiting for only four weeks even though she doesn’t want a husband. With so little time, Anna picked up her knitting needles and took to the streets to find the single young men in their district. As the men were “interviewed”, they received one of Anna’s special creations.
Mandy, to her unending embarrassment, went with her best friend Kristina to spy on the ‘love of her life’, Noah work. In her excitement, Kristina pushed Mandy into the river and she would have drowned if Noah had not rescued her. In the upcoming days, she learned that Kristina and Noah never dated, but she refused to leave him alone. As the days pass, Mandy and Noah begin to talk as he re-roofs Anna and Felty’s home. As they do, they fall for each other. Oopsie. Wait until Kristina finds out!
When Mandy learns Noah’s “shameful” secret, she tried to do what she usually did best – fix the problem. Noah didn’t want Mandy to fix the problem and didn’t want anyone to know about it. He believed nobody, even God, could change the situation. Their growing love for each other could never blossom because of his need to take care of his family instead of seeking God’s will. Mandy knew she would soon return to Charm, Ohio. What would she leave behind – a used-to-be-best-friend? Of course, her beloved Dawdi and Mammi. A broken heart? A list of hopeful suitors?
The primary characters in this novel are fully developed folks, seemingly so real that I wish I could take a walk and visit Anna and Felty; they are a stitch to watch! Anna and Felty demonstrate a life of faith and love. The family members and even the young men who came to meet Mandy were as defined as necessary for their roles. Only Kristina seemed odd because of how she behaved like child and tuned out what she didn’t want to hear. Oh. Maybe I’ve done that, also? Tuned out truth?
The plot begins like those in the other books in the series. What is different this time is the specific problem in Noah’s family. This is not a fluffy book of romance; it is a novel of real-world problems that are not insurmountable – with God. I am extremely impressed with how Jennifer Beckstrand writes, showing grace and dignity to both Noah’s father and his family. Whatever denomination a family worships in, this challenge occurs, and can cause behaviors that are shown here, and then some. As frustrating and confusing as it is, it does not diminish God’s ability to work and change the human heart, nor does it diminish God’s unconditional love for His children. Spiritual lessons that we each need in our own way are gently demonstrated. Huckleberry Harvest is absolutely the best in the series of the ones I’ve read, and I most highly recommend it. As the other novels are, this can be enjoyed and appreciated by adults of any age as well as teens. I’m not sure how I can wait for the next novel to come out later this year! Thank you, Jennifer, for this amazing novel! May many, many read and be blessed by it!
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Anna and Felty Helmuth have been married for more than six decades, and ‘retired’ (not!) to beautiful acreage on top of Huckleberry Hill. Anna’s current goal is to see all of her adult grandchildren married to suitable Amish spouses. For those not yet married, she is providing ‘encouragement’ in the form of matchmaking. While Felty isn’t as sold on the idea, he loves to make his ‘Annie Bananie’ happy, so he helps when it doesn’t get too out of hand. This time Anna has set her sights on granddaughter Mandy, visiting for only four weeks even though she doesn’t want a husband. With so little time, Anna picked up her knitting needles and took to the streets to find the single young men in their district. As the men were “interviewed”, they received one of Anna’s special creations.
Mandy, to her unending embarrassment, went with her best friend Kristina to spy on the ‘love of her life’, Noah work. In her excitement, Kristina pushed Mandy into the river and she would have drowned if Noah had not rescued her. In the upcoming days, she learned that Kristina and Noah never dated, but she refused to leave him alone. As the days pass, Mandy and Noah begin to talk as he re-roofs Anna and Felty’s home. As they do, they fall for each other. Oopsie. Wait until Kristina finds out!
When Mandy learns Noah’s “shameful” secret, she tried to do what she usually did best – fix the problem. Noah didn’t want Mandy to fix the problem and didn’t want anyone to know about it. He believed nobody, even God, could change the situation. Their growing love for each other could never blossom because of his need to take care of his family instead of seeking God’s will. Mandy knew she would soon return to Charm, Ohio. What would she leave behind – a used-to-be-best-friend? Of course, her beloved Dawdi and Mammi. A broken heart? A list of hopeful suitors?
The primary characters in this novel are fully developed folks, seemingly so real that I wish I could take a walk and visit Anna and Felty; they are a stitch to watch! Anna and Felty demonstrate a life of faith and love. The family members and even the young men who came to meet Mandy were as defined as necessary for their roles. Only Kristina seemed odd because of how she behaved like child and tuned out what she didn’t want to hear. Oh. Maybe I’ve done that, also? Tuned out truth?
The plot begins like those in the other books in the series. What is different this time is the specific problem in Noah’s family. This is not a fluffy book of romance; it is a novel of real-world problems that are not insurmountable – with God. I am extremely impressed with how Jennifer Beckstrand writes, showing grace and dignity to both Noah’s father and his family. Whatever denomination a family worships in, this challenge occurs, and can cause behaviors that are shown here, and then some. As frustrating and confusing as it is, it does not diminish God’s ability to work and change the human heart, nor does it diminish God’s unconditional love for His children. Spiritual lessons that we each need in our own way are gently demonstrated. Huckleberry Harvest is absolutely the best in the series of the ones I’ve read, and I most highly recommend it. As the other novels are, this can be enjoyed and appreciated by adults of any age as well as teens. I’m not sure how I can wait for the next novel to come out later this year! Thank you, Jennifer, for this amazing novel! May many, many read and be blessed by it!
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
February 24, 2016
I have never been a believer in a faith or a higher being. However, the more I read of this gentle genre - and most especially of this particular author, the more I wonder. Ms Beckstrand does not hit you over the head with a sledgehammer to get her religious points across, she uses humor, compassion and common sense to make her points AND tell her story.
Also another thing I love about these books and especially this one, is that she takes a very important and timely story-line and sort of mixes it with a dose of humor along with a large dollop of romance to engage us in the story.
There is always a happily ever after for the couple, but she doesn't fudge when it comes time to the important things.
In this book the hero, Noah Mischler's father is an alcoholic -this is a very important aspect of this story and while there is much time spent in dealing with Noah's father there is no waving of a magic wand to 'cure' the alcoholism. The story-line is dealt with fairly and just like it would be in 'real' life. This happened with the last novel in this series also.
It was wonderful seeing Felty work his matchmaking skills this time instead of
I am quite saddened to see that there is only one more book in this series for me to read! I can't wait for the new series to start!
Also another thing I love about these books and especially this one, is that she takes a very important and timely story-line and sort of mixes it with a dose of humor along with a large dollop of romance to engage us in the story.
There is always a happily ever after for the couple, but she doesn't fudge when it comes time to the important things.
In this book the hero, Noah Mischler's father is an alcoholic -this is a very important aspect of this story and while there is much time spent in dealing with Noah's father there is no waving of a magic wand to 'cure' the alcoholism. The story-line is dealt with fairly and just like it would be in 'real' life. This happened with the last novel in this series also.
It was wonderful seeing Felty work his matchmaking skills this time instead of
I am quite saddened to see that there is only one more book in this series for me to read! I can't wait for the new series to start!
December 4, 2021
A very sweet romance, intermixed with plenty of humor. It was nice to see Felty try his hand at matchmaking instead of Anna, and her potholders—given out to every eligible boy except Noah—made for a wonderful ongoing joke.
June 5, 2015
MY REVIEW: FIVE STARS * * * * *
The publisher granted me digital access to this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I received no compensation for reading the book or for posting this review here or on any other site.
I have previously read three of the books from this Amish fiction series called ‘The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill’. I absolutely adore the delightful core characters in this series! Anna and Felty Helmuth are octogenarian grandparents on a mission to find marriage matches for each of their grandchildren.
Anna and Felty’s antics are hilarious. Felty, called Dawdi by his grandchildren, is known for his humorous renditions of old hymns and songs. He enjoys playing the license plate game when he’s out and about on the road, and he thinks his wife of sixty-four years, Anna, can do no wrong–even when it comes to her crazy cooking adventures.
Anna, called Mammi by her grandchildren, is known for her prolific knitting projects and her poor cooking and baking skills. She makes potholders to give to eligible suitors for her granddaughter, Mandy, in this book. The other girls in the community call the boys with the potholders The Potholder Club.
Anna has decided to find a husband for Mandy (visiting from Ohio) during her four-week summer stay on their farm. Mammi concocts various muscle tests and questionnaires to rate the local young men in an effort to find Mandy the best possible match.
All kidding aside, Mandy and Noah, the main male character in this story, must deal with some serious issues surrounding his father’s alcoholism and Mandy’s take-charge personality. Noah, especially, goes through some heart-wrenching events during the book. The author does an excellent job of guiding her characters through these circumstances in a realistic manner.
The final few chapters of the story are touching and exceptionally well-written. I loved the final chapter–which I won’t spoil for you by revealing its contents. Suffice to say this book provides above average laughter and enjoyment in the Amish fiction genre.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Amish and Christian fiction, clean romance, and humorous fiction. I can’t wait to read the next installment in the series, ‘Huckleberry Hearts’, scheduled for release in December, 2015!
The publisher granted me digital access to this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I received no compensation for reading the book or for posting this review here or on any other site.
I have previously read three of the books from this Amish fiction series called ‘The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill’. I absolutely adore the delightful core characters in this series! Anna and Felty Helmuth are octogenarian grandparents on a mission to find marriage matches for each of their grandchildren.
Anna and Felty’s antics are hilarious. Felty, called Dawdi by his grandchildren, is known for his humorous renditions of old hymns and songs. He enjoys playing the license plate game when he’s out and about on the road, and he thinks his wife of sixty-four years, Anna, can do no wrong–even when it comes to her crazy cooking adventures.
Anna, called Mammi by her grandchildren, is known for her prolific knitting projects and her poor cooking and baking skills. She makes potholders to give to eligible suitors for her granddaughter, Mandy, in this book. The other girls in the community call the boys with the potholders The Potholder Club.
Anna has decided to find a husband for Mandy (visiting from Ohio) during her four-week summer stay on their farm. Mammi concocts various muscle tests and questionnaires to rate the local young men in an effort to find Mandy the best possible match.
All kidding aside, Mandy and Noah, the main male character in this story, must deal with some serious issues surrounding his father’s alcoholism and Mandy’s take-charge personality. Noah, especially, goes through some heart-wrenching events during the book. The author does an excellent job of guiding her characters through these circumstances in a realistic manner.
The final few chapters of the story are touching and exceptionally well-written. I loved the final chapter–which I won’t spoil for you by revealing its contents. Suffice to say this book provides above average laughter and enjoyment in the Amish fiction genre.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Amish and Christian fiction, clean romance, and humorous fiction. I can’t wait to read the next installment in the series, ‘Huckleberry Hearts’, scheduled for release in December, 2015!
April 28, 2015
I received my copy of Huckleberry Harvest a little while ago, I didn’t open it right away, it was like a piece of candy that you absolutely love, but savor and save for a few days. I knew what I was going to find once I open the pages, and sure was not disappointed, just didn’t want it to end.
This is Granddaughter Mandy’s story, and Annie and Felty are at it again, of course. Annie has away with cooking, that would bring tears to the eyes of any cast iron stomach, but she is so delightful that people suffer through what she offers, and try to find ways not to eat. She does do a wonderful job with her knitting, and she soon has the boys lining up for one of her potholders, and a she has a very special job available. Marry her Granddaughter!
You can guess how delightful this book is, and I found it so very heart-warming, although it does deal with some tough subjects, such as alcoholism, and the trial it puts on families.
As the book opens we find Mandy chewing out an Amish man whom she thinks hurt her dearest friend to the core. How could this Noah Mischler have led on Kristina and then broken her heart, well she sure gives him a piece of her mind. Then we turn around and who appears at he Grandparent’s kitchen, you got it, and we soon are rooting for Noah, and are aghast at the antics a grown woman would go to try and win his favor.
Page-turner to the end, and not a book that I wanted to end, the characters here are like family, and I wanted to stay in their comfortable embrace. Am so glad that there is another grandchild that needs a spouse and so there is another book to come in November called Huckleberry Hearts.
I received this book from the Author for my honest review, and was not required to give a positive review.
This is Granddaughter Mandy’s story, and Annie and Felty are at it again, of course. Annie has away with cooking, that would bring tears to the eyes of any cast iron stomach, but she is so delightful that people suffer through what she offers, and try to find ways not to eat. She does do a wonderful job with her knitting, and she soon has the boys lining up for one of her potholders, and a she has a very special job available. Marry her Granddaughter!
You can guess how delightful this book is, and I found it so very heart-warming, although it does deal with some tough subjects, such as alcoholism, and the trial it puts on families.
As the book opens we find Mandy chewing out an Amish man whom she thinks hurt her dearest friend to the core. How could this Noah Mischler have led on Kristina and then broken her heart, well she sure gives him a piece of her mind. Then we turn around and who appears at he Grandparent’s kitchen, you got it, and we soon are rooting for Noah, and are aghast at the antics a grown woman would go to try and win his favor.
Page-turner to the end, and not a book that I wanted to end, the characters here are like family, and I wanted to stay in their comfortable embrace. Am so glad that there is another grandchild that needs a spouse and so there is another book to come in November called Huckleberry Hearts.
I received this book from the Author for my honest review, and was not required to give a positive review.
September 28, 2022
Light romances can be so perplexing. Mandy Helmuth travels to Wisconsin to stay with her grandparents for a few weeks. In this space of time, she plans to patch up her friend's broken romance. At the same time, her grandparents plan to find Mandy herself a romance. The book opens up with Mandy confronting Noah, who has just broken up with her "best friend." We have the traditional love/hate relationship between Noah and Mandy. Sparks fly as indiscriminately as the Amish words the author peppers her story with. The love story was sort of cute, but then it did drag on. Also, I dislike it when the author has otherwise intelligent characters believing things that anyone with common sense would question. No sane person would believe ANYTHING out of the mouth of Kristina - an Amish valley girl with the heart of a viper. I questioned Mandy’s common sense when she continued to refer to Kristina as her “best friend.” Kristina was depicted in nothing but a negative light, which I found unrealistic, as everyone has some shades of good. We become like the people we hang around with. If Mandy is so wonderful, she wouldn’t be friends with someone like Kristina – let alone best friends. Overall, I spent most of the novel feeling the need to give Mandy a lecture about eliminating toxic people from her life.
October 8, 2023
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.25
First Impressions
Huckleberry Harvest is the fifth installement in the "Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill" series and thi is Mandy's book. For those that aren't familar with the theme of the series, we have our grandparents (they do have a book which is the last one in the series I believe) who matchmake their grandkids into love and marriage Amish style haha If you like cozy endearing inspirational romance, then this is an author you need to pick up. I absolutely have fallen head over heels in love with Amish romance. Its so refreshing to read at times. Huckleberry Harvest is probably the most cozy out of all the books I have read in the series so far though. There is such an easygoing relationship in the romance and it does have a third act conflict/breakup but that's okay, the author makes them work.
First Line
The chickens gathered at Anna Helmuth's feet as she scattered scratch from her pail.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Noah Mischler
A young man who is tortured emotionally. Protects his father who is grieving and is an alcoholic but stays with him. Hard worker and devoted to his faith but lets pride get the better of him at times.
The Heroine: Mandy Helmuth
Mandy is kind and caring and sees the good in people. She is always wanting to help others.
Summary
Mandy Helmuth is visiting her grandparents for a month and in the process wants to help her best friend win her boyfriend back. But what Mandy doesn't realize is that Kristina has been manipulating the situation and been deceiving her on the truth of what her relationship with Noah has really been about. When Kristina drags her to spy on Noah, its the last straw for Mandy. When he saves her life, there is a change in the relationship between Noah and Mandy. As Noah is working on repairs for her grandparents place, she begins to see the man beneath his rough exterior. But he is also the man her best friend wants to have, and is torn on choosing Noah for a husband or her best friend...
What I Loved
Huckleberry Harvest despite how the blurb sounds, has so many cozy fall vibes to it. It was such an easy book to relax into and I became so charmed by this one. I do think this is one of the better books of the series if I had to choose. And I am liking this narrator the more I listen to her and she really handles the tones of the story very well. And I especially love how she handles the dialogue between the grandparents. They remind me so much of my own that its so nostalgic. I also love the support system that is showcased in here. Not sure if that is the normal Amish way, but if it is, I truly respect this culture more and more. I also enjoyed the easy way that Noah and Mandy get along once they let go of their pride and just learn to be together. Noah and Mandy individually are such wonderful characters. Noah is a man of mystery. You see how tortured he is in having to choose his dad and taking care of him even when he is abused at times when he is drunk. Then we have Mandy who just wants to help him out and has such an open caring heart.
What I Struggled With
The best friend and the third act conflict. I was not a fan in how these were handled. I like a good conflict but the best friend Kristina was awful and never had to apologize for anything she did. I did want some more justice surrounding her actions and how she harmed her best friend. Best friends don't treat each other like Kristina does to Mandy. And the third act breakup felt unnecessary. I get misunderstandings, but it felt too much in comparison to the story that is delivered.
Narration
This narrator isn't bad and really brings out the vibes of an Amish romance really well. The dialogue especially is just perfect and why I am doing this series in audio. She really uplifts the story in the right ways.
Overall View
Huckleberry Harvest is a stunning story that melted my heart and delivered on the most authentic cozy vibes for a romance. Its sweet and easy going and packed with emotional intimacy.
Favorite Quote(s)
“Even when we sin, even when our trouble is of our own making, Jesus doesn’t abandon us.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Inspirational Romance
Character Types: Amish, Country/Farmer, Tortured Hero
Themes: Small Town, Cozy Vibes, Family Bonds, Sweet Romance, Fade To Black
Tropes: Friends To Lovers, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Center Point Road by Thomas Rhett, Kelsea Ballerini
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as standalones
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Narrators:
C.S.E. Cooney
November 9, 2020
Mandy hears that her best friend is heartbroken so she goes to see her and stay with her matchmaking grandparents. She finds that her friend has been texting and spying on Noah and he never was her boyfriend and the heartbreak was all on her side. Noah is trying to hide the fact that his father drinks and get into fights so he is trying to stay away from girl, but love wins in the end.
September 14, 2022
Another fun visit to Huckleberry Hill!
June 3, 2015
I can not believe I'm late reviewing THIS book! Jennifer - you should smack me.
But seriously... I thought I had already reviewed it. It was only when I went looking for the review that I realized why it wasn't there.
OOPS!
I know I literally say this about every book Jennifer puts out but I seriously think this is my favorite so far!
And... Oh my word how do I write this review without giving anything away...
I don't know how Jennifer does it – I mean she comes up with these wonderful stories that are full of such life and good humor and faith – and there are no two alike!
I especially like the new direction Jennifer took with this one! It's the first time Felty has gotten into the act (I'm not spoiling anything ... it's in the sneak peek in the back of Huckleberry Spring)
One other thing I LOVE about Jennifer is that she is not shy at all about tackling serious issues! She brings them to light and shows her readers just how dangerous these things can be!
AMAZING!
So... not only will Huckleberry Harvest make you laugh, it will make you think. It will also make you frustrated at how thick-headed some people can be and sigh over how exciting love can be!
In short, it's great, it's humorous, it's exciting, it's REAL!
I did say it's the best one yet right... ? Yes, I thought I did! So, what are you waiting for? GO... get your copy! Don't miss it!!!
And, as usual, I can hardly wait to start the next one! Especially since I read the sneak peek!
Review © JCMorrows 2015
But seriously... I thought I had already reviewed it. It was only when I went looking for the review that I realized why it wasn't there.
OOPS!
I know I literally say this about every book Jennifer puts out but I seriously think this is my favorite so far!
And... Oh my word how do I write this review without giving anything away...
I don't know how Jennifer does it – I mean she comes up with these wonderful stories that are full of such life and good humor and faith – and there are no two alike!
I especially like the new direction Jennifer took with this one! It's the first time Felty has gotten into the act (I'm not spoiling anything ... it's in the sneak peek in the back of Huckleberry Spring)
One other thing I LOVE about Jennifer is that she is not shy at all about tackling serious issues! She brings them to light and shows her readers just how dangerous these things can be!
AMAZING!
So... not only will Huckleberry Harvest make you laugh, it will make you think. It will also make you frustrated at how thick-headed some people can be and sigh over how exciting love can be!
In short, it's great, it's humorous, it's exciting, it's REAL!
I did say it's the best one yet right... ? Yes, I thought I did! So, what are you waiting for? GO... get your copy! Don't miss it!!!
And, as usual, I can hardly wait to start the next one! Especially since I read the sneak peek!
Review © JCMorrows 2015
July 9, 2023
Anna is at it again, and Felty is giving his support, as usual. Match-making seems to be their full-time occupation, now that they are taking it easy in their retirement. But nothing is easy in this installment in the series. Serious issues are the mainstay in this tale, and the characters in the story must learn to acknowledge and deal with them. Jennifer Beckstrand’s novel illustrates good character development in both the main and secondary characters, and places them in a storyline that has depth and substance. While other books in the series were liberally dosed with humor, this one is more serious, although it does have some frivolous moments. Anna’s knitting needles work overtime as she drags in potential suitors for Mandy and presents them all with potholders. The story bogs down a bit in the middle, as the reluctant Noah fails to assert himself in so many ways. Finally, though, he takes action and readers will be thankful when he asserts himself.
May 26, 2015
Huckleberry Harvest (Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series) by Jennifer Beckstrand. Jennifer Beckstrand has done it yet again! She has written another delightful story with Anna & Felty. Hop aboard this roll-a-coaster of a book and enjoy this story. This story has so much in it Love, laughter, heartache, pain, hope, faith and devotion. The unexpected things that happen in this story will leave you wanting for more and more. Anna is always trying to match make with one of her grandchildren. She wants to see them just as happy as she has been in her marriage. This book was so wonderful that I had a hard time putting it down. Be sure to pre-order your copy today. Remember is also makes a great gift. 5 stars!
August 30, 2015
Have you ever found an author who makes you want more and more of her books to read. Jennifer is one author who pulls you directly into her story from the beginning to the end. In Huckleberry Harvest we continue the matchmaking of Anna with a reluctant Felty. The story main characters are Emma and Ben. Ben broke off their engagement and move to Florida. When the truth finally comes out Faith is what brings them together. If you love stories that keep you reading then The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill is a series you must read.
February 11, 2022
I really appreciate that Jennifer Beckstrand doesn't shy away from difficult topics in her writing. Noah's family is struggling with some very hard circumstances, and Noah's trying to pretend that everything is fine is a focal point for this story.
I loved that Mandy, even though she didn't always have her facts straight, knew she was worthy of being loved wholeheartedly and wouldn't settle for less, even if the boy *does* have gut muscles. (iykyk)
I liked how Mandy tried to encourage Noah to give his troubles to God, and thought they were a good match for each other. Good job, Dawdi Felty!
I loved that Mandy, even though she didn't always have her facts straight, knew she was worthy of being loved wholeheartedly and wouldn't settle for less, even if the boy *does* have gut muscles. (iykyk)
I liked how Mandy tried to encourage Noah to give his troubles to God, and thought they were a good match for each other. Good job, Dawdi Felty!
January 4, 2017
Not a fair rating since I only read the first chapter or so. I wasn't amused at the idea of having relatives trying to matchmake.
October 29, 2023
Huckleberry Harvest by Jennifer Beckstrand
The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #5
352-page Kindle Ebook (location only)
Genre: Christian Fiction > Amish Fiction; Romance > Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance > Amish Romance; Inspirational
Featuring: Grandparents, Matchmaking, Wisconsin, Enemies-to-Lovers Trope, Misunderstanding, Poodle, Contest, Not Looking For Love, Loss of Faith, Texting, Teaser Chapter: Huckleberry Hearts book 6
Rating as a movie: PG-13
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔨
My thoughts: 🔖58% Location 2131 of 4679 Ch. 10 - This story is unrealistic yet it's great. Very entertaining and a complete 180 from the last book.
This had some absurd moments but was quite humorous overall. It led towards the next book, which I'm starting right away. It should be interesting since it's not an Amish match. As for this story if Hallmark made an Amish Romance this would be it.
Recommend to others: Yes. Books like this are why I'm determined to finish the series.
Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill
1. Huckleberry Hill (2014)
2. Huckleberry Summer (2014)
3. Huckleberry Christmas (2014)
4. Huckleberry Spring (2015)
5. Huckleberry Harvest (2015)
6. Huckleberry Hearts (2015)
7. Return to Huckleberry Hill (2017)
8. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill (2017)
9. Home on Huckleberry Hill (2018)
10. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill (2021)
11. Second Chances on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
12. Happily Ever After on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #5
352-page Kindle Ebook (location only)
Genre: Christian Fiction > Amish Fiction; Romance > Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance > Amish Romance; Inspirational
Featuring: Grandparents, Matchmaking, Wisconsin, Enemies-to-Lovers Trope, Misunderstanding, Poodle, Contest, Not Looking For Love, Loss of Faith, Texting, Teaser Chapter: Huckleberry Hearts book 6
Rating as a movie: PG-13
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔨
My thoughts: 🔖58% Location 2131 of 4679 Ch. 10 - This story is unrealistic yet it's great. Very entertaining and a complete 180 from the last book.
This had some absurd moments but was quite humorous overall. It led towards the next book, which I'm starting right away. It should be interesting since it's not an Amish match. As for this story if Hallmark made an Amish Romance this would be it.
Recommend to others: Yes. Books like this are why I'm determined to finish the series.
Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill
1. Huckleberry Hill (2014)
2. Huckleberry Summer (2014)
3. Huckleberry Christmas (2014)
4. Huckleberry Spring (2015)
5. Huckleberry Harvest (2015)
6. Huckleberry Hearts (2015)
7. Return to Huckleberry Hill (2017)
8. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill (2017)
9. Home on Huckleberry Hill (2018)
10. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill (2021)
11. Second Chances on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
12. Happily Ever After on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
January 29, 2024
I read this book as a stand alone and I thought it was amazing you really don’t need to read the others to know what’s going on it was a all round amazing book
February 22, 2019
A little slow to take off but it was worth the read.
November 21, 2015
Anna and Felty Helmuth are at it again! They're matchmaking their grown-up granddaughter, Mandy, to a suitable husband.
Mandy's first day in Bonduel, WI, she is taking care of business for her broken hearted best friend Kristina, by visiting the young man who broken Kristina's heart. What Mandy does not know is that Noah Mischler will be at her grandparents Helmuth's house the next morning to switch cooking stoves along with group of young men, who are bachelors.
Noah Mischler is a young handy man in Bonduel area of Wisconsin. He has a secret that he is hiding from the rest of his Amish community, except the bishop and Felty Helmuth who both know what Noah is handling at home.
Will Noah's hidden secret send Mandy running to the other Amish suitors that her grandmother has had her entertaining?
Will Noah learn to trust others and accept help for him and his family?
If you want to be entertained while reading then "Huckleberry Harvest" by Jennifer Beckstrand is the book for you to read and you wont be disappointed. And if you are like me and have not read the whole series, dont be alarmed each book are a stand alone with a few characters over lapping from the previous books before. I plan to read more book by Jennifer Beckstrand in the near future.
I received a free copy of this book through both the author and NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.
Mandy's first day in Bonduel, WI, she is taking care of business for her broken hearted best friend Kristina, by visiting the young man who broken Kristina's heart. What Mandy does not know is that Noah Mischler will be at her grandparents Helmuth's house the next morning to switch cooking stoves along with group of young men, who are bachelors.
Noah Mischler is a young handy man in Bonduel area of Wisconsin. He has a secret that he is hiding from the rest of his Amish community, except the bishop and Felty Helmuth who both know what Noah is handling at home.
Will Noah's hidden secret send Mandy running to the other Amish suitors that her grandmother has had her entertaining?
Will Noah learn to trust others and accept help for him and his family?
If you want to be entertained while reading then "Huckleberry Harvest" by Jennifer Beckstrand is the book for you to read and you wont be disappointed. And if you are like me and have not read the whole series, dont be alarmed each book are a stand alone with a few characters over lapping from the previous books before. I plan to read more book by Jennifer Beckstrand in the near future.
I received a free copy of this book through both the author and NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.
June 15, 2015
WOW! Just when I think I can guess what Anna’s going to do next – I get a BIG surprise!
Of course, we know how she enjoys matchmaking... and so far she’s been very successful. This time I think it’s possible she was trying a bit too hard -- she certainly was surprised when one of the boys she tried to match her granddaughter with wasn’t Amish!
This time Felty steps in and tries his hand at matchmaking! As usual, Anna does her thing, pulling him along for the ride. But this time something's different! I'd love to tell you more, but I just can't! You HAVE to read this for yourself!
Huckleberry Hill was awesome, but the sequels just keep getting better and better! I REALLY hope Kensington knows what a GEM they have found in Jennifer Beckstrand! Every book she writes is fresh and original – and just plain fun to read.
Each story is wonderfully different – I don’t know how she does it – and each character is unique, yet fits into the family perfectly! One grandson was determined to not marry; another was eager to marry; yet another had been arrested several times!
As a series, it’s familiar and comfortable, but nothing – except for Anna’s cooking – is the same from book to book. Even Anna’s matchmaking is a little different with each story. It’s a good thing Amish families are so big – Anna and Felty have plenty of grandchildren left for Jennifer to write about!
Jennifer takes you on a wild ride with Anna and Felty. You usually end up in the same place, but you’re a happier person at the end. Read the Huckleberry Hill series… you won’t want to miss a single one!
Don’t miss this amazing series!
April 23, 2015
The Huckleberry Hill matchmakers are at it again! Anna and Felty Helmuth's granddaughter is visiting for a month, and Anna is determined to find Mandy a husband during that time. Jennifer Beckstrand adds hilarity to a serious plot! Some serious issues arise in this author's latest novel, but I laughed aloud several times as unique humor is interwoven with a complex series of events.
The characters throughout Huckleberry Harvest are colorful and varied, the Amish countryside lush and alive! Noah plays a very strong role, and plays it well. Although his stubbornness gets in his way at times, his intentions are solid and godly. Mandy is caught between a rock and a hard place, and appears to teeter between teenager and adulthood and back again with her giggly childhood girlfriend sweeping her into childish capers.
Significant issues arise throughout this story of giggling girls and a young man who has no time for silly games. Mandy's character is one of charity, a compassionate, generous girl whose intentions are sound, but go beyond the boundaries of propriety.
Alcoholism and a broken family, as well as misunderstandings add drama to the plot, and with the blending of humor and serious emotional and physical incidents, this is a page-turner from the start. I highly recommend this entertaining book, and feel that the author did a wonderful job of portraying tough struggles realistically with that thread of humor that breaks the tension.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
The characters throughout Huckleberry Harvest are colorful and varied, the Amish countryside lush and alive! Noah plays a very strong role, and plays it well. Although his stubbornness gets in his way at times, his intentions are solid and godly. Mandy is caught between a rock and a hard place, and appears to teeter between teenager and adulthood and back again with her giggly childhood girlfriend sweeping her into childish capers.
Significant issues arise throughout this story of giggling girls and a young man who has no time for silly games. Mandy's character is one of charity, a compassionate, generous girl whose intentions are sound, but go beyond the boundaries of propriety.
Alcoholism and a broken family, as well as misunderstandings add drama to the plot, and with the blending of humor and serious emotional and physical incidents, this is a page-turner from the start. I highly recommend this entertaining book, and feel that the author did a wonderful job of portraying tough struggles realistically with that thread of humor that breaks the tension.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
May 23, 2015
As I've said in previous reviews -- you can count on a Jennifer Beckstrand "Huckleberry (anything)" book being an great read.
Huckleberry Harvest is the best yet of Anna and Felty Helmuth's adventures in matchmaking for their unsuspecting grandchildren. Anna's cooking, knitting, and scheming, along with Felty's subtle cunning provide the setting for a touching story that mixes deep feelings with a healthy dose of humor.
Jennifer has taken a common premise through five books, but has kept the story fresh each time. Her creativity is evident as her continuing matchmaker characters change little from story to story even as their methods of operation vary as needed for the moment.
The strength of this story -- and what I think made it my favorite -- is the deep look into the challenging experiences and feelings of the main characters, Mandy and Noah. In this book Jennifer tackles a very difficult subject -- but she does it with care and sensitivity, showing her ability to write entertaining fiction while keeping things real.
I highly recommend Huckleberry Harvest to fans of Amish fiction or to anyone looking for a delightful story. Thanks to Jennifer and her publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Huckleberry Harvest is the best yet of Anna and Felty Helmuth's adventures in matchmaking for their unsuspecting grandchildren. Anna's cooking, knitting, and scheming, along with Felty's subtle cunning provide the setting for a touching story that mixes deep feelings with a healthy dose of humor.
Jennifer has taken a common premise through five books, but has kept the story fresh each time. Her creativity is evident as her continuing matchmaker characters change little from story to story even as their methods of operation vary as needed for the moment.
The strength of this story -- and what I think made it my favorite -- is the deep look into the challenging experiences and feelings of the main characters, Mandy and Noah. In this book Jennifer tackles a very difficult subject -- but she does it with care and sensitivity, showing her ability to write entertaining fiction while keeping things real.
I highly recommend Huckleberry Harvest to fans of Amish fiction or to anyone looking for a delightful story. Thanks to Jennifer and her publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2015
Huckleberry Harvest is the fifth installment of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. In this book, there is real life issues that kept me intrigued with the story and a few moments that had me laughing. I really liked this book but not as much as the first four of the series.
4 stars.
4 stars.
March 29, 2015
Please see my review in the June Issue of RT Book Reviews Magazine.
April 1, 2020
I mean, let's be honest here. I knew The Book of Strange New Things was going to be a tough act to follow. It's why I decided to head for my go-to mind popcorn, the Amish romance. However, I don't know what it was but this one just didn't click with me on several levels.
It wasn't bad enough to stop reading it, but I kept waiting for character growth, or something. But no. I just felt like all the characters were really immature.
So all in all I wasn't a big fan of this book or it's protagonists.
It wasn't bad enough to stop reading it, but I kept waiting for character growth, or something. But no. I just felt like all the characters were really immature.
So all in all I wasn't a big fan of this book or it's protagonists.
November 11, 2020
Another unexpected storyline in this author's Amish stories. I was frustrated by Noah's personal conviction that his father's drunkenness was his own fault - maybe that demonstrates my unfamiliarity with the psychology of caretakers of with that weakness, I don't know. But it seemed for the longest time like it was teaching that it was an Amish way of life not to share a burden like that with the community but to take all the burden on yourself. He also felt the responsibility to give practically ALL his disposable income to his absent family members. It did become more clear by the end that he was mistaken, but overcoming a mindset as deeply ingrained as his should have taken months/years to overcome, not days. Personal opinion. The atonement of Jesus Christ can do a LOT for people, but that wasn't as big a part of the story as some others. Okay, 3 1/2 stars, it did end very hopeful.
October 1, 2017
I really enjoyed this book but was very tense regarding what happened between Mandy and Noah - I din't think they would ever get their relationship healed and get together - I was so impressed how Jennifer Beckstrand, the author, brought about the lesson of humility and how important that is in our life and that we don't have to carry burdens by ourselves. We also learned how important it is to not jump to conclusions, give people a chance to explain and listen to the other side of the story. We can save ourselves a lot of heart ache if we would do that. Great story - I learn a lesson from every book and continue to look forward to the next one.
January 16, 2019
When Mandy Helmuth hears that her best friend Kristina’s heart has been broken, she decides to visit her grandparents and cheer her up. Mandy never liked Noah Mischler anyway, with his rough exterior and outspoken ways. Unfortunately, she can’t avoid him—especially after he saves her life…
If he weren’t helping Felty with home repairs, Noah would be more than happy to stay away from uppity Mandy Helmuth. Of course, then he wouldn’t have been able to rescue her—and she wouldn’t have had the chance to discover the real Noah beneath the tough persona—the one she falls in love with. . .
If he weren’t helping Felty with home repairs, Noah would be more than happy to stay away from uppity Mandy Helmuth. Of course, then he wouldn’t have been able to rescue her—and she wouldn’t have had the chance to discover the real Noah beneath the tough persona—the one she falls in love with. . .
March 7, 2018
This was a good story. It showed that people are people in every walk of life, and don’t always handle trials healthily. This was the story of Mandy and Noah, and Mandy’s ‘friend’ Kristina. She drove me crazy! I liked that Felty was the matchmaker this time!
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