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Lopsided Christmas Cake #1
The Lopsided Christmas Cake
An Amish Charity Event Leads to a Christmas Romance
Christmas Fiction from New York Times Bestselling Author , Wanda E. Brunstetter
Join the Hochstetler twin sisters on stage as they bumble their way through baking a cake for a charity auction in front of a live audience. The take-charge Elma and the klutzy optimist Thelma manage to entertain their audience—and attract the admiration of two bachelors, an outspoken woodworker and a shy harness maker from a neighboring Amish community. As fall leads into the Christmas season, could romance be blossoming for one or more of the Hochstetler twins? Find out in this brand new romance from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter, writing with her daughter-in-law Jean Brunstetter.
Don't miss The Farmers' Market Mishap, the sequel to The Lopsided Christmas Cake !
The Farmers' Market Mishap - Book 2!
Christmas Fiction from New York Times Bestselling Author , Wanda E. Brunstetter
Join the Hochstetler twin sisters on stage as they bumble their way through baking a cake for a charity auction in front of a live audience. The take-charge Elma and the klutzy optimist Thelma manage to entertain their audience—and attract the admiration of two bachelors, an outspoken woodworker and a shy harness maker from a neighboring Amish community. As fall leads into the Christmas season, could romance be blossoming for one or more of the Hochstetler twins? Find out in this brand new romance from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter, writing with her daughter-in-law Jean Brunstetter.
Don't miss The Farmers' Market Mishap, the sequel to The Lopsided Christmas Cake !
The Farmers' Market Mishap - Book 2!
203 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
61 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
Wanda E. Brunstetter
215 books2,327 followersNew York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
October 9, 2015
A quick and fun read. Twins, Elma and Thelma inherit their grandparents store and home. One sister sees a flyer asking town's people to bake cakes to be auctioned of to help for a fundraiser. The sisters fix up the house but it's a bit overwhelming to them. A lopsided cake involving a cat brings a chance at love for these twins.
July 21, 2018
What a sweet story! I enjoyed this one.
September 12, 2015
I can honestly say this is one of the best books I have read lately. Author Wanda Brunstetter and daughter-in-law, Jean Brunstetter, have a hit on their hands. I do hope they pair up for some more creative fun reading pleasure for readers.
I loved reading about Elma and Thelma Hochstetler. Although twins, they couldn't be more opposite in personalities. One being very serious, one jovial and enjoying life. They really did compliment each other.
This book had me rolling with laughter in many places. Oh my, I was actually living what they were going through when they entered their cake for a charity event.
You will also enjoy reading about best friends, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich. They too have very different personalities and you will chuckle with laughter at some of the things they go through.
Don't get me wrong, it isn't all laughter. There are some life teaching events in this story. It just goes to prove to us all that God is in Control of our lives.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Don't miss it. There is also a bonus recipe in the back. I plan to make this recipe in a few months.
I wish to thank Wanda Brunstetter, Jean Brunstetter and Barbour Publishing for gifting me with ,The Lopsided Christmas Cake. I was not required to write a review but how could I not write a review on such a wonderful story? The opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.
I loved reading about Elma and Thelma Hochstetler. Although twins, they couldn't be more opposite in personalities. One being very serious, one jovial and enjoying life. They really did compliment each other.
This book had me rolling with laughter in many places. Oh my, I was actually living what they were going through when they entered their cake for a charity event.
You will also enjoy reading about best friends, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich. They too have very different personalities and you will chuckle with laughter at some of the things they go through.
Don't get me wrong, it isn't all laughter. There are some life teaching events in this story. It just goes to prove to us all that God is in Control of our lives.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Don't miss it. There is also a bonus recipe in the back. I plan to make this recipe in a few months.
I wish to thank Wanda Brunstetter, Jean Brunstetter and Barbour Publishing for gifting me with ,The Lopsided Christmas Cake. I was not required to write a review but how could I not write a review on such a wonderful story? The opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.
December 7, 2015
{{It’s December and that means Christmas book reviews here on BFCG! Unlike how we did last year with every review day being a Christmas book, this year just Monday & Friday will be reviews of Christmas books. Wednesdays will be reserved for new releases. :) A couple giveaways are also scheduled this month, so keep an eye out!}}
About this book:
“Twin sisters Elma and Thelma Hochstetler have done everything together for their thirty-two years of life—including remaining unmarried. They inherited their grandparents’ house and general store, which will support them well. Now they will take on baking a cake for a Shipshewana charity event together.
They are decent cooks, but they didn’t anticipate having to demonstrate the baking process on stage before their cake will be auctioned off. They panic, and Elma struggles to keep order while Thelma bumbles through the process with a smile. The pair end up being so entertaining that the bachelor friends in attendance, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich, think it was all planned. Joseph, a shy harness maker, would like to meet Thelma and asks Delbert to bid on the sisters’ cake.
Could a lopsided Christmas cake be the key to opening the door for one or more of the Hochstetler twins?”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Blessing over food; Talks about God & His time; ‘H’s when referring to God are capital; Bible reading; Scriptures are remembered, quoted & mentioned; Mentions of God; Mentions of church & sermons.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘shut up’ and two forms of ‘dumb’; Killing ants with borax (semi-detailed); Cats attack mice & rats (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a horse that was killed (no details); A mention of vomiting (barely-above-not-detailed).
Sexual Content- three semi-detailed kisses; A married couple kiss on the cheek; Remembering a kiss (semi-detailed); Hand holding; Noticing; Mentions of love at first sight; Love falling in love & the emotions.
-Elma Hochstetler, age 32
-Joy Jorgenson, age 32
P.O.V. switches between them, Joseph, Delbert & Kathryn (once)
203 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Hmm. I was hoping I would enjoy this one better than Wanda E. Brunstetter’s other books. Sadly, I didn’t. :( There was so much useless and filler chatter. So much. It was annoying, really. Elma & Thelma (I wish the names were more different, because I kept getting them confused) seemed very young for being 32. The actual plot didn’t actually start till page 110 of 203. Those twenty pages after were cute, but from then on it felt like it went downhill. I didn’t like either of the guys or the love at first sight Joseph had. Delbert & Elma got on my nerves so bad and it was incredibly frustrating to see everyone push them together. Elma was okay the first 100 pages, but when Delbert comes to the picture, he definitely brought out the worse in her and her in him. Overall, I was very disappointed in this book. :(
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the author for this honest review.
About this book:
“Twin sisters Elma and Thelma Hochstetler have done everything together for their thirty-two years of life—including remaining unmarried. They inherited their grandparents’ house and general store, which will support them well. Now they will take on baking a cake for a Shipshewana charity event together.
They are decent cooks, but they didn’t anticipate having to demonstrate the baking process on stage before their cake will be auctioned off. They panic, and Elma struggles to keep order while Thelma bumbles through the process with a smile. The pair end up being so entertaining that the bachelor friends in attendance, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich, think it was all planned. Joseph, a shy harness maker, would like to meet Thelma and asks Delbert to bid on the sisters’ cake.
Could a lopsided Christmas cake be the key to opening the door for one or more of the Hochstetler twins?”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Blessing over food; Talks about God & His time; ‘H’s when referring to God are capital; Bible reading; Scriptures are remembered, quoted & mentioned; Mentions of God; Mentions of church & sermons.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘shut up’ and two forms of ‘dumb’; Killing ants with borax (semi-detailed); Cats attack mice & rats (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a horse that was killed (no details); A mention of vomiting (barely-above-not-detailed).
Sexual Content- three semi-detailed kisses; A married couple kiss on the cheek; Remembering a kiss (semi-detailed); Hand holding; Noticing; Mentions of love at first sight; Love falling in love & the emotions.
-Elma Hochstetler, age 32
-Joy Jorgenson, age 32
P.O.V. switches between them, Joseph, Delbert & Kathryn (once)
203 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Hmm. I was hoping I would enjoy this one better than Wanda E. Brunstetter’s other books. Sadly, I didn’t. :( There was so much useless and filler chatter. So much. It was annoying, really. Elma & Thelma (I wish the names were more different, because I kept getting them confused) seemed very young for being 32. The actual plot didn’t actually start till page 110 of 203. Those twenty pages after were cute, but from then on it felt like it went downhill. I didn’t like either of the guys or the love at first sight Joseph had. Delbert & Elma got on my nerves so bad and it was incredibly frustrating to see everyone push them together. Elma was okay the first 100 pages, but when Delbert comes to the picture, he definitely brought out the worse in her and her in him. Overall, I was very disappointed in this book. :(
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the author for this honest review.
December 9, 2017
First, I have to say that I normally do not read Amish fiction. When it first became popular, they were all so similar that they began to feel very formulaic after reading a great many. But Wanda Brunstetter's, The Lopsided Christmas Cake, takes a totally different spin and provides a delightful, humorous read.
Identical twins, Thelma and Elma, have inherited their grandparents' home and store upon their death. At the age of 30, moving away from home is a definite step in a new direction for the young women. They find their grandparents' home is in great disrepair and the business is totally disorganized. Having never had to deal with these types of things, the girls meet the challenge head on. The problems that arise are due to the girls widely different personalities. Thelma is a disorganized chatterbox and Elma is a tell it like it is, opinionated, OCD organizer. When Thelma enters them into a cake contest to help raise money for some Amish families with health needs, the antics begin. Add two young Amish fellows, one a stutterer and the other as opinionated as Elma, as well as a promise that the twins made as young girls, and romance has a bumpy road.
Very enjoyable afternoon Christmas read. The recipes for the various Christmas dishes the twins made are included at the end.
Identical twins, Thelma and Elma, have inherited their grandparents' home and store upon their death. At the age of 30, moving away from home is a definite step in a new direction for the young women. They find their grandparents' home is in great disrepair and the business is totally disorganized. Having never had to deal with these types of things, the girls meet the challenge head on. The problems that arise are due to the girls widely different personalities. Thelma is a disorganized chatterbox and Elma is a tell it like it is, opinionated, OCD organizer. When Thelma enters them into a cake contest to help raise money for some Amish families with health needs, the antics begin. Add two young Amish fellows, one a stutterer and the other as opinionated as Elma, as well as a promise that the twins made as young girls, and romance has a bumpy road.
Very enjoyable afternoon Christmas read. The recipes for the various Christmas dishes the twins made are included at the end.
August 23, 2017
In trademark fashion, Wanda Brunstetter, along with Jean Brunstetter, has created another captivating Amish novel. It's a fantastic start to a new series, and kept me hooked until the end. The blended writing style of these two talented ladies was a refreshing experience!
Thelma and Elma's characters stole my heart completely! Their characters are unique! They are identical twins, but they are older, in their 30s. That's unusual in books like these but I loved that twist to the story! They are twins, yet so different. These sweet ladies really kept me smiling! Their devotion to their grandparents, God and to each other was really wonderful. The mishaps of their lives, the possibility of being old maids and never finding love, the quirkiness woven into the story, all of it kept me engrossed in the story. Watching one lopsided yummy cake change that, well it was not what I was expecting but was also refreshing.
I loved Joseph and Delbert's characters, too. They really livened up the story!
This is definitely a book worth 5 stars and 2 thumbs up. It's going to the top of my list of 2017 top reads. If you love yummy cakes, quirky characters, God and family, be sure and snatch this one up! You'll be left wanting more mishaps from these lovely twins! This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
Thelma and Elma's characters stole my heart completely! Their characters are unique! They are identical twins, but they are older, in their 30s. That's unusual in books like these but I loved that twist to the story! They are twins, yet so different. These sweet ladies really kept me smiling! Their devotion to their grandparents, God and to each other was really wonderful. The mishaps of their lives, the possibility of being old maids and never finding love, the quirkiness woven into the story, all of it kept me engrossed in the story. Watching one lopsided yummy cake change that, well it was not what I was expecting but was also refreshing.
I loved Joseph and Delbert's characters, too. They really livened up the story!
This is definitely a book worth 5 stars and 2 thumbs up. It's going to the top of my list of 2017 top reads. If you love yummy cakes, quirky characters, God and family, be sure and snatch this one up! You'll be left wanting more mishaps from these lovely twins! This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
November 21, 2015
Thanks to the publisher for an advance reader's copy.
What can I say about this book that doesn't contradict another point I'll make about it? To start, the cover is hilariously terrible, but it's also what made me want to read the book. The dialogue feels like reading an elementary school workbook ("In addition to blankets, I also brought sandwiches, cookies, chips, sunglasses, extra batteries" etc.), but I know that the author is widely respected for accurately depicting the Amish lifestyle, so who am I to think the book was light on plot, heavy on filler, and awkwardly written? My overall impression was that the book was hokey, but this would be a perfect choice for someone looking for a heartwarming, clean romance.
I guess the bottom line is that this was definitely a guilty pleasure read for me, but for people that love the genre: more power to you. I really enjoyed learning about the details of modern Amish life, and this was kind of exactly what I want to read this time of year.
What can I say about this book that doesn't contradict another point I'll make about it? To start, the cover is hilariously terrible, but it's also what made me want to read the book. The dialogue feels like reading an elementary school workbook ("In addition to blankets, I also brought sandwiches, cookies, chips, sunglasses, extra batteries" etc.), but I know that the author is widely respected for accurately depicting the Amish lifestyle, so who am I to think the book was light on plot, heavy on filler, and awkwardly written? My overall impression was that the book was hokey, but this would be a perfect choice for someone looking for a heartwarming, clean romance.
I guess the bottom line is that this was definitely a guilty pleasure read for me, but for people that love the genre: more power to you. I really enjoyed learning about the details of modern Amish life, and this was kind of exactly what I want to read this time of year.
September 7, 2015
3.5 stars... I have a longtime obsession with Amish and enjoy reading well written stories involving them.
This is a humorous, light hearted shorter novel featuring a set of 30ish identical Amish female twins. It recounts their adventures in moving to a different state into their now deceased grandparents dilapidated homestead and store. Though they are twins, they have quite different opinions and personalities. We have adventure, romance and definitely humor. I felt like this showed a lighter side of amish fiction, which I enjoyed, and liked that it made them seem more "normal" and easier to relate to. Even though the title suggests a Christmas story, it is only a passing part of the book. I recommend it to those who enjoy amish fiction and want something a little less serious.
**Many Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for providing a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review**
This is a humorous, light hearted shorter novel featuring a set of 30ish identical Amish female twins. It recounts their adventures in moving to a different state into their now deceased grandparents dilapidated homestead and store. Though they are twins, they have quite different opinions and personalities. We have adventure, romance and definitely humor. I felt like this showed a lighter side of amish fiction, which I enjoyed, and liked that it made them seem more "normal" and easier to relate to. Even though the title suggests a Christmas story, it is only a passing part of the book. I recommend it to those who enjoy amish fiction and want something a little less serious.
**Many Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for providing a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review**
October 30, 2019
A cute story set in an Illinois Amish community, with a pair of identical twins launching out on their own for the first time. One of the young women is kind of bossy and critical, making it hard to make friends. The other one is very sweet and easy to like. They were kind of like "Martha and Mary" types. It seemed like they were younger than 32, but maybe it is a result of their sheltered life. Nice little quick read with a chaste romance. Fine for young teens and up. Recipe for the cake is included at the end. 3.5 stars
September 28, 2018
This was a sweet story about two Amish twins who inherit their grandparents store and home. They decide to move in, fix up the house, and run the store. They enter a cooking contest and their cake comes out very lopsided because of the wood stove and the buggy ride to the contest. Two men bid on the cake in hopes of meeting the twins. I thought the book was very sweet, but predictable.
November 16, 2024
A light hearted pleasant easy read!
December 14, 2019
I enjoyed this nice, Amish Christmas tale.
August 26, 2015
Wanda Brunstetter has been writing fantastic books in the Amish fiction genre for many years. In this new Christmas book, Jean joins her to compose a humorous tale that causes the reader to smile, giggle and yes, even laugh out loud. Many feelings arise as you read this delightful tale that appeals to the romantic side of every one of us. Although the title alone makes one smile, this adventure has one also thinking of the ideal romance that all females desire, along with the challenges one encounters on the path to happiness.
The idea of single twins sharing their lives and adventures is a very different twist to Amish fiction. This book is definitely NOT your typical Amish tale of boy meets girl, get married, have a family. The desire to marry and have a family could be the thing that divides these two precious ladies. Their two lives have been so alike up to this point. I could easily identify with them and felt their confusion and trials as they attempt to deal with rather unusual situations. They were described so realistically that I felt they were near and dear to me. What lovable and yes, sometimes silly women!!
The plot was very different from the norm. Very simple yet appealing and touched my funny bone!! This book is an easy read but keeps one guessing throughout as you encounter little twists and turns.
Wanda has once again written a winning novel. I would highly recommend this book for a light enjoyable read. A great book to keep one amused during the Christmas season.
This ebook was supplied by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 27, 2015
What a delightful read The Lopsided Cake is.
After their grandparents pass, twin sisters Elma and Thelma move to take over the store they’ve inherited. Anxious to start this new challenge, the sisters are also hopeful they may meet their future husbands here.
However, once they began work at the store, they were overwhelmed with the responsibility they had inherited. When they weren’t at the store the sisters were trying to keep up with all of the housework, which left them little time to relax. They soon began to fear they would never have time to get out and meet the other members of their new community
Elma and Thelma decided they needed to make time to become a part of their community, so the sisters entered a local cooking show to help raise money for the community. In honor of their grandparents, they made their beloved grandma’s cake that she would always bake for them. The sisters hope this is the event they need to get to know the people in town.
Is this where the sisters will meet their future husbands? You won’t want to miss what happens!
This refreshingly light and comical story has been a pleasure to read. Each page kept me hooked and impressed me with the writing styles of Wanda and Jean Brunstetter. I hope to seem more writings from this talented duo!
I was received this book from Barbour Publishing for my honest review in which I have given.
After their grandparents pass, twin sisters Elma and Thelma move to take over the store they’ve inherited. Anxious to start this new challenge, the sisters are also hopeful they may meet their future husbands here.
However, once they began work at the store, they were overwhelmed with the responsibility they had inherited. When they weren’t at the store the sisters were trying to keep up with all of the housework, which left them little time to relax. They soon began to fear they would never have time to get out and meet the other members of their new community
Elma and Thelma decided they needed to make time to become a part of their community, so the sisters entered a local cooking show to help raise money for the community. In honor of their grandparents, they made their beloved grandma’s cake that she would always bake for them. The sisters hope this is the event they need to get to know the people in town.
Is this where the sisters will meet their future husbands? You won’t want to miss what happens!
This refreshingly light and comical story has been a pleasure to read. Each page kept me hooked and impressed me with the writing styles of Wanda and Jean Brunstetter. I hope to seem more writings from this talented duo!
I was received this book from Barbour Publishing for my honest review in which I have given.
May 14, 2017
This review is from: The Lopsided Christmas Cake (Kindle Edition)
The Hochstetler twins are new in the town of Topeka Indiana. Elma and Thelma have inherited their grandparents estate, which includes a house and general store. In order to claim their inheritance they must leave their mom and dad and the life they know in Sullivan Illinois, and take up residence in Indiana. All too soon they find themselves standing in front of their late grandparents run down house with a barn that's seen better days. Perhaps they were too hasty in excepting their inheritance before packing up and leaving home !
New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda Brunstetter has teamed up with her Daughter- In- Law Jean and put their talents together to create a very humorous Amish Christmas book for their readers. The story is centered around the identical twins as they get settled into their new surroundings. Wanting to get involved in the community they dig up one of grandma's old recipes for a Christmas cake that brought back fond memories.Never having actually baked the cake before Thelma gives it a try and donates it to be auctioned off for a good cause.
The rest of the story is waiting to be read. If you like Christmas fiction stories or if Amish reading is your genre you will not be disappointed with The Lopsided Christmas Cake . I truely enjoyed it and highly recommend it .
The Hochstetler twins are new in the town of Topeka Indiana. Elma and Thelma have inherited their grandparents estate, which includes a house and general store. In order to claim their inheritance they must leave their mom and dad and the life they know in Sullivan Illinois, and take up residence in Indiana. All too soon they find themselves standing in front of their late grandparents run down house with a barn that's seen better days. Perhaps they were too hasty in excepting their inheritance before packing up and leaving home !
New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda Brunstetter has teamed up with her Daughter- In- Law Jean and put their talents together to create a very humorous Amish Christmas book for their readers. The story is centered around the identical twins as they get settled into their new surroundings. Wanting to get involved in the community they dig up one of grandma's old recipes for a Christmas cake that brought back fond memories.Never having actually baked the cake before Thelma gives it a try and donates it to be auctioned off for a good cause.
The rest of the story is waiting to be read. If you like Christmas fiction stories or if Amish reading is your genre you will not be disappointed with The Lopsided Christmas Cake . I truely enjoyed it and highly recommend it .
September 17, 2015
The Lopsided Christmas Cake by Wanda Brunstetter has it all, romance, a little intrigue, and personal growth and a faith building message, all while bringing the laughs on. Once you start reading it you will not want to put it down.
As with her other books I found the author's ability to weave a story was so realistic I found myself fitting into the tale. How many times in real life have I stumbled through a task to success. Wanda Burnstetter's down to earth style of writing made the story come alive to this reader. There are no limits to God's plan for your future and this story re-enforces that truth to the reader.
Wanda Burnstetter has done it again by developing characters that are realistic and easy to identify with. Through their personal growth and adventure they force the reader to look inward and grow. I found it very easy to identify with the characters and follow along their individual storylines.
I really enjoyed The Lopsided Christmas Cake by Wanda Burnstetter and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
(Book was read & reviewed by Larry and Sara Gray)
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
As with her other books I found the author's ability to weave a story was so realistic I found myself fitting into the tale. How many times in real life have I stumbled through a task to success. Wanda Burnstetter's down to earth style of writing made the story come alive to this reader. There are no limits to God's plan for your future and this story re-enforces that truth to the reader.
Wanda Burnstetter has done it again by developing characters that are realistic and easy to identify with. Through their personal growth and adventure they force the reader to look inward and grow. I found it very easy to identify with the characters and follow along their individual storylines.
I really enjoyed The Lopsided Christmas Cake by Wanda Burnstetter and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
(Book was read & reviewed by Larry and Sara Gray)
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
April 15, 2017
I really enjoyed "The Lopsided Christmas Cake"! It was a really good, cute, and funny story. It had me laughing quite a few times with things that the twins, Elma and Thelma, did.
I have to admit that at first I wasn’t sure how this book would be. I’d read other books by Wanda Brunstetter and enjoyed them, but this one seemed a little, well…interesting. The cover and title seemed a bit strange and the main peoples names, Elma and Thelma, well, I just didn’t quite know what to expect, but I have to say that this book was really good. I will definitely read it again another Christmas. Also, there’s going to be a sequel to this book called, "The Farmers’s Market Mishap", that comes out in June 2017. I’m looking forward to it!
So, yes, I really enjoyed "The Lopsided Christmas Cake" and would recommend it! :)
I have to admit that at first I wasn’t sure how this book would be. I’d read other books by Wanda Brunstetter and enjoyed them, but this one seemed a little, well…interesting. The cover and title seemed a bit strange and the main peoples names, Elma and Thelma, well, I just didn’t quite know what to expect, but I have to say that this book was really good. I will definitely read it again another Christmas. Also, there’s going to be a sequel to this book called, "The Farmers’s Market Mishap", that comes out in June 2017. I’m looking forward to it!
So, yes, I really enjoyed "The Lopsided Christmas Cake" and would recommend it! :)
July 5, 2015
The Lopsided Christmas Cake is a down to earth story about two, thirty something, sister's who find themselves with the opportunity to be single and independent. This is the kind of Amish story you rarely read. Instead of the 18-23 year old meeting and marrying the guy of their dreams, we get to read about two women in their 30's. At times I found myself annoyed when one sister was getting in her own way of happiness, yet didn't see it. They definitely deal with being set in their ways. Thelma and Elma are hilarious when they cook. I felt I could relate to the women as they faced challenges.
This is definitely a book I would recommend.
*This book was given to me by NetGalley for an honest review.
This is definitely a book I would recommend.
*This book was given to me by NetGalley for an honest review.
December 28, 2015
Twins, Thelma and Elma, are still living with their parents and are uncertain if they will find husbands and have families of their own. When they inherit their grandparents home and store, they soon discover indepedence can be challenging. The home has been neglected, and the store needs organizing. But ever optimistic Thelma and practical Elma set to work. Always community minded, they enter a charity auction. Unfortunately the cake they enter is not what they intended. But a handsome bachelor is determined to meet the twins, and the bidding begins. Is romance in the future for Thelma and Elma? Can they make it on their own?
A lighthearted, humorous, sweet Christmas story. Really 3.5 stars.
A lighthearted, humorous, sweet Christmas story. Really 3.5 stars.
November 17, 2015
This is a light hearted story about Amish twin sisters, Thelma and Elma, that inherit their grandparents house and store. They are 32 years old but honestly they seem like teenagers or early twenty somethings. First I have to say that I didn't like their names (maybe I'm too picky)I felt they were too silly sounding. The rest of the story was OK but lacked in the romance area until the end, and I felt like I was reading a story written for youngsters. I did read it all though because I have always loved Wanda e. Brunstetter.
May 25, 2016
I hate to give a not-so-favorable review, but I just couldn't finish this book. Not finishing a book is really hard for me, but I have to remember, I don't have time to read things that I don't enjoy or that aren't that good. I have always liked Wanda Brunstetter's works in the past, but this one is not very well written. The dialog is childish (the main characters are 32 year old women who talk to each other like 12-15 year olds might talk to each other), the story line is a bit too far-fetched, it just isn't all that interesting ....
November 11, 2015
A wonderful story of twins Elma and Thelma who inherited their grandparents home and story. Both twin are unmarried and made a pledge when they were young that they both would get married together or stay unmarried. When Thelma meets Joseph she falls in love but Elma doesn't feel the same about Joe's friend Delbert. Because of the pledge will it cause Thelma to loses Joseph. I am not telling you must read to find out. I laughed and cried with this book. Thank you Wanda.
February 9, 2022
Just wasn't a big fan of this Brunstetter book. The cover is cute; but the book has very little to do with Christmas; that was my main reason for reading it. The seasonal cozy feeling just wasn't there. The sisters were really young acting for them both to have been 32 years old I was expecting a more maturity to the read but it came across some-what elementary.
August 6, 2015
The Lopsided Christmas Cake by Wanda Brunstetter is a heartwarming book that tells a predictable tale. The author’s descriptions are excellent while her plot is very predictable. If you like reading books that are cozy and comforting you’ll love this book.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
January 1, 2016
This is a cute Amish Christmas romance, although I'll be honest and say Elma was a real crank and pulled the grade down. See my synopsis at http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com...
Want to read
September 15, 2024I read this on the Kindle
Not a bad book ending not as predictable as you may think
storyline okay but not quite as gripping as some of Wanda Brunstetter's books i know this was written with her daughter in law
Not a bad book ending not as predictable as you may think
storyline okay but not quite as gripping as some of Wanda Brunstetter's books i know this was written with her daughter in law
December 24, 2022
Every year as I set up the library's Christmas display, I drag this book out, and I'm always amused by the cover. Why does it matter that the cake is lopsided? Cake by its very nature is delicious in any form; who cares what it looks like?
And, then there's the question of novels featuring the Amish. They're astoundingly popular here, and I've never really understood why. We have a large Amish population where I live; there are even hitching posts for their horses at both Lowes and Walmart, but it's NOT the Amish who are checking out these books. One patron told me that it's because the books are clean with no swearing, and no sex . . . though most Amish seem to have 4 or more children, so sex is definitely happening, at least after marriage. And, if you're looking for "clean" books, we have many Christian fiction titles.
Why the Amish?
And, why Amish romance novels? Unless the act of churning butter turns you on, or you find a long straggly beard with bits of food still clinging enormously attractive, why go Amish over other tame romances out there? (By the way, I Googled images of sexy Amish men, and there were none. I've also stood behind them in line at the grocery store, and, believe me - using deodorant is not mentioned in the Bible.)
So, taking some advice from said Bible (Romans 14:18-23, and, yes, I had to look it up), I decided to kill two birds with one stone by reading this sucker, and learning the appeal of the Amish romance, while also finding out why it was a big deal that the cake was lopsided.
And, the verdict is --- it was . . . charming.
The tale involves twin sisters, the horribly named Elma and Thelma, who inherit their grandparents' dilapidated house and general store. Nothing goes right for these two. The house is infested with rodents, and bringing barn cats indoors to solve the problem only creates more drama. (I gotta admit, I was chuckling when one cat ran through the fireplace, then tracked cinders all over the house.) The horse that pulls their buggy seems determined to kill them, and their woodstove works overtime burning all their food. Stick-in-the-mud Elma is ready to sell the cursed pit, and move back in with their parents. Plucky, outgoing Thelma wants to give it a go. In an attempt to fit in, and meet new people, she signs them both up for a cooking show, one where they must stand in front of an audience, and bake a cake to be auctioned off for charity. This is why it matters that the cake was LOPSIDED. Despite its crooked appearance, the woebegone dessert causes a bidding frenzy among some men who want to meet the twins. And, we're off to the romance . . . maybe.
I have to admit, I enjoyed this, though to those expecting a Christmas book, look elsewhere - only the last few chapters are set at Christmas, so turn to the Hallmark Channel for all your sentimental holiday needs. I would however recommend this one to anyone who likes reading about all the hard work that goes into leading a simple life, and for those who have finished the Little House on the Prairie series and don't know where to go next.
I'm still scratching my head over the cake the gals made for the show. They used their Grandmother's recipe, so I'm anticipating some cherished thing handed down through the generations, but, NO! It's a Jell-O poke-cake with Cool Whip icing! Criminy! I would be ashamed to take one of those things to a potluck! At least make the freakin' frosting from heavy cream and powdered sugar!
One thing's for sure - people are NOT checking out these Amish books for their recipes.
And, then there's the question of novels featuring the Amish. They're astoundingly popular here, and I've never really understood why. We have a large Amish population where I live; there are even hitching posts for their horses at both Lowes and Walmart, but it's NOT the Amish who are checking out these books. One patron told me that it's because the books are clean with no swearing, and no sex . . . though most Amish seem to have 4 or more children, so sex is definitely happening, at least after marriage. And, if you're looking for "clean" books, we have many Christian fiction titles.
Why the Amish?
And, why Amish romance novels? Unless the act of churning butter turns you on, or you find a long straggly beard with bits of food still clinging enormously attractive, why go Amish over other tame romances out there? (By the way, I Googled images of sexy Amish men, and there were none. I've also stood behind them in line at the grocery store, and, believe me - using deodorant is not mentioned in the Bible.)
So, taking some advice from said Bible (Romans 14:18-23, and, yes, I had to look it up), I decided to kill two birds with one stone by reading this sucker, and learning the appeal of the Amish romance, while also finding out why it was a big deal that the cake was lopsided.
And, the verdict is --- it was . . . charming.
The tale involves twin sisters, the horribly named Elma and Thelma, who inherit their grandparents' dilapidated house and general store. Nothing goes right for these two. The house is infested with rodents, and bringing barn cats indoors to solve the problem only creates more drama. (I gotta admit, I was chuckling when one cat ran through the fireplace, then tracked cinders all over the house.) The horse that pulls their buggy seems determined to kill them, and their woodstove works overtime burning all their food. Stick-in-the-mud Elma is ready to sell the cursed pit, and move back in with their parents. Plucky, outgoing Thelma wants to give it a go. In an attempt to fit in, and meet new people, she signs them both up for a cooking show, one where they must stand in front of an audience, and bake a cake to be auctioned off for charity. This is why it matters that the cake was LOPSIDED. Despite its crooked appearance, the woebegone dessert causes a bidding frenzy among some men who want to meet the twins. And, we're off to the romance . . . maybe.
I have to admit, I enjoyed this, though to those expecting a Christmas book, look elsewhere - only the last few chapters are set at Christmas, so turn to the Hallmark Channel for all your sentimental holiday needs. I would however recommend this one to anyone who likes reading about all the hard work that goes into leading a simple life, and for those who have finished the Little House on the Prairie series and don't know where to go next.
I'm still scratching my head over the cake the gals made for the show. They used their Grandmother's recipe, so I'm anticipating some cherished thing handed down through the generations, but, NO! It's a Jell-O poke-cake with Cool Whip icing! Criminy! I would be ashamed to take one of those things to a potluck! At least make the freakin' frosting from heavy cream and powdered sugar!
One thing's for sure - people are NOT checking out these Amish books for their recipes.
March 29, 2022
I used to think this author was so good....then I tried to actually read her books. I had over 20 of them that I obtained from library sales and similar places. I thought since there were so many and since they seem relatively popular among people who like this genre, she must be really good. So I kept adding to my collection for the eventual day when I'd be able to sit and enjoy them all.
Now I'm just kind of thinking it must be fairly easy to publish Amish fiction.
The Lopsided Christmas Cake was one of the few of all those books that I thought I'd be able to finish, but after five chapters, I've given up. The writing is awkward. It's simplistic and dated, which makes a weird combination so that it feels like the characters are about 15 and 85. Nowhere near the range of the 30-something year old women we're supposed to be reading about.
There's too much detail we don't need (Seriously, we don't need to be reminded that they're twins 30x), and not enough details that would make sense (Why did they need to go to another town to go shopping when they own a store?).
The phrasing of a lot of things was just odd and the character's think as if they're narrating a book. Honestly, I just don't care about a lot of the things they think about.
And I'm sorry, but Elma and Thelma? Really? Now granted, that one was on the back of the book, so I saw it coming, but really? They're identical and basically no one can tell them apart. They don't need identical names too.
The plot sounded good, but very early on it was predictable and over-the-top cheesy. I generally don't mind things being predictable and/or cheesy, but with the terrible writing, I just can't do it.
Now I'm just kind of thinking it must be fairly easy to publish Amish fiction.
The Lopsided Christmas Cake was one of the few of all those books that I thought I'd be able to finish, but after five chapters, I've given up. The writing is awkward. It's simplistic and dated, which makes a weird combination so that it feels like the characters are about 15 and 85. Nowhere near the range of the 30-something year old women we're supposed to be reading about.
There's too much detail we don't need (Seriously, we don't need to be reminded that they're twins 30x), and not enough details that would make sense (Why did they need to go to another town to go shopping when they own a store?).
The phrasing of a lot of things was just odd and the character's think as if they're narrating a book. Honestly, I just don't care about a lot of the things they think about.
And I'm sorry, but Elma and Thelma? Really? Now granted, that one was on the back of the book, so I saw it coming, but really? They're identical and basically no one can tell them apart. They don't need identical names too.
The plot sounded good, but very early on it was predictable and over-the-top cheesy. I generally don't mind things being predictable and/or cheesy, but with the terrible writing, I just can't do it.
December 1, 2023
I was pleasantly surprised by this little book. First of all, I felt it had way less filler than most Amish novels, which tend to be 300+ pages, with at least 100 of those pages being completely unnecessary. This book did have a few filler sections (i.e. the rodents) but nothing too bad.
Being a twin myself, I'm always skeptical reading about twins because so many stereotypes often used in writing are just downright ridiculous. I loved how in this book Elma and Thelma's separate personalities were continually emphasized (although I really wish that didn't have rhyming names...). The only thing that really bothered me in this book was the childish promise Thelma made concerning her twin and felt obliged to keep. It just seemed immature and hard to believe that she'd been holding on to it for all these years, despite her own desires and interests.
This book is described on the back as a lighthearted Christmas romance, but most of the book takes place in late fall to early December, so there aren't a lot of Christmas vibes. If you enjoy Amish romance, this would be a book you could read really at any time of the year.
Being a twin myself, I'm always skeptical reading about twins because so many stereotypes often used in writing are just downright ridiculous. I loved how in this book Elma and Thelma's separate personalities were continually emphasized (although I really wish that didn't have rhyming names...). The only thing that really bothered me in this book was the childish promise Thelma made concerning her twin and felt obliged to keep. It just seemed immature and hard to believe that she'd been holding on to it for all these years, despite her own desires and interests.
This book is described on the back as a lighthearted Christmas romance, but most of the book takes place in late fall to early December, so there aren't a lot of Christmas vibes. If you enjoy Amish romance, this would be a book you could read really at any time of the year.
June 20, 2018
The Lopsided Christmas Cake is Book One is a series written by Wanda & Jean Brunstetter. It is a delightful, playful Amish Christian romance about twin sisters Thelma and Elma. The twins have inherited their grandparents home and store which keeps Them busy.
The girls decide to bake a cake for the community auction. As fate would have it, they meet two Amish bachelors, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich. Joseph has been wanting to meet Thelma and convinces Delbert, too. It is a fun, read that provided some laugh out loud moments for me.
Both authors work well together and definitely write a great book. The characters a well defined and become friends before the story ends. The conversations flowed well. Descriptions were on point and carried me to Amish country for a short visit.
I would definitely recommend this sweet Amish book. Anyone that enjoys Amish or Christmas stories will be delighted with it.
The girls decide to bake a cake for the community auction. As fate would have it, they meet two Amish bachelors, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich. Joseph has been wanting to meet Thelma and convinces Delbert, too. It is a fun, read that provided some laugh out loud moments for me.
Both authors work well together and definitely write a great book. The characters a well defined and become friends before the story ends. The conversations flowed well. Descriptions were on point and carried me to Amish country for a short visit.
I would definitely recommend this sweet Amish book. Anyone that enjoys Amish or Christmas stories will be delighted with it.
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