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Amish Christmas at North Star: Four Stories of Love and Family
One night four lives entered the world by the hands of an Amish midwife, just outside North Star, Pennsylvania.
Rebekah’s Babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, a possibility of love, and the wonder of Christmas.
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Curiosity gets the best of Englischer Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jesse, an angry Englischer, or someone else?
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Heartbroken Kore Detweiler avoids North Star after Savilla Beiler rejects his love. But when he is unexpectedly called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner left North Star to join a new Amish settlement in Mississippi. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in a reclusive widower’s life.
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Rebekah’s Babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, a possibility of love, and the wonder of Christmas.
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Curiosity gets the best of Englischer Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jesse, an angry Englischer, or someone else?
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Heartbroken Kore Detweiler avoids North Star after Savilla Beiler rejects his love. But when he is unexpectedly called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner left North Star to join a new Amish settlement in Mississippi. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in a reclusive widower’s life.
From the Trade Paperback edition.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2015
155 people are currently reading
1291 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
69 books1,120 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
November 22, 2019
Keep the tissues close by as you are reading AMISH CHRISTMAS AT NORTH STAR. These authors will have your emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to all of these characters. All of the characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again.
Just because AMISH CHRISTMAS AT NORTH STAR is four novellas doesn’t mean you will feel cheated. Each story is just the perfect length to meet and care for each character. If you have never read any of these authors, this book would make a perfect introduction to the reader. Each story involves an Amish midwife that is sure to pull at your heart strings. Get comfortable in your favorite chair and be ready to be totally entertained by these five wonderful authors.
AMOST CHRISTMAS AT NORTH STAR is without a doubt one of the best collection of novellas I’ve read in 2019 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. All of these authors really know how to write about family drama, heartbreak, faith and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more stories by them. They are among my favorite Amish fiction authors and these novellas are exactly why.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Just because AMISH CHRISTMAS AT NORTH STAR is four novellas doesn’t mean you will feel cheated. Each story is just the perfect length to meet and care for each character. If you have never read any of these authors, this book would make a perfect introduction to the reader. Each story involves an Amish midwife that is sure to pull at your heart strings. Get comfortable in your favorite chair and be ready to be totally entertained by these five wonderful authors.
AMOST CHRISTMAS AT NORTH STAR is without a doubt one of the best collection of novellas I’ve read in 2019 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. All of these authors really know how to write about family drama, heartbreak, faith and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more stories by them. They are among my favorite Amish fiction authors and these novellas are exactly why.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 1, 2020
Heartwarmimg Christmas Romances
This was four Amish romances brought together at the end with one event at the beginning and another event at the end. All four stories were great, but made even better by now they came together at the end. Very heartwarmimg Christmas story.
This was four Amish romances brought together at the end with one event at the beginning and another event at the end. All four stories were great, but made even better by now they came together at the end. Very heartwarmimg Christmas story.
February 1, 2016
{{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:
“One night four lives entered the world by the hands of an Amish midwife, just outside North Star, Pennsylvania.
Rebekah’s babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, love, and the wonder of Christmas.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Guiding Star” by Katie Ganshert
About this book:
“Curiosity gets the best of Englisher Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & forgiving; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; A few Scriptures are mentioned & talked about; Christmas & a song; A candle light service & a couple mentions of a sermon; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of church; A mention of Bible reading; A mention of sin, Adam & Eve.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘sucker’; A mentions of cigarettes, drinking & gambling; A mention of divorce; Mentions of tempers, abuse & hitting.
Sexual Content- an almost kiss, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed, two semi-detailed kisses and a borderline semi-detailed // detailed kiss; Wanting to kiss; Mentions of kissing & mistletoe; Touches & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Noticing; A mention of a hand holding; A couple mentions of a 13 year old having a boyfriend; A mention of a teen pregnancy; A couple mentions of breast feeding; Love, falling in love, and the emotions.
-Noelle McAllister
-Chase Wellington
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Mourning Star” by Amanda Flower
About this book:
“Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac Yoder. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jacob, an angry Englisher, or someone else?”
Spiritual Content- Christmas; Mentions of the Lord’s day.
Negative Content- All about a murder, a drug & violence (barely-above-not-detailed).
Sexual Content- Touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Staring; Mentions of a handsome man; A bit of love & falling in love.
-Eden Hochstetter, age 24-25
P.O.V. of Eden
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“In the Stars” by Cindy Woodsmall
About this book:
“Kore Detweiler has nursed his broken heart, avoiding North Star after Savilla Beiler suddenly rejected his love. But when he is called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.”
Spiritual Content- A couple Prayers; A couple Scriptures are mentioned; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Christmas & mentions of Jesus; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of church.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm; A mention of drinking.
Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, three barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (barley-above-not-detailed): Mentions of rumored cheating; Mentions of a woman’s cycles & a hysterectomy; Love, falling in love & the emotions;
*Note: A mention of a puppy-mill & a familial interbreeding.
-Savilla Beiler, age 24-25
-Kore Detweiler, age 28/29 (?)
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) 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- Three Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Star of Grace” by Mindy Starns Clark & Emily Clark
About this book:
“Andy Danner left North Star to work in construction in a new Amish settlement in Louisiana. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas, and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in an old widower’s life.”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & forgiving; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; A Scripture is mentioned; Christmas & a mention of Bible reading; Mentions of God; Mentions of church; A couple mentions of devotions.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘crummy’, three ‘dumb’s and four ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm; A couple mentions of blood & an injury (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); A few mentions of prison, drinking & an accident.
Sexual Content- Warmth & an Embrace (semi-detailed); Noticing; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Sam Danner, age 24-25
-Andy Danner, age 12
-Nellie Umble
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
This was a very well done novella collection. I loved how all the novellas were connected by more than just a plot thread, like other Amish novella collections I’ve read in the past. My favorite to not-so-favorite are actually in the order they are written in this book, so that’s easy to type out. :)
“Guiding Star” by Katie Ganshert was my favorite of this collection. It was different, not a true Amish story, but had mostly Englishers in it. I loved the adoption parts of this plot and found it all really interesting. It got my attention fast and I wish it was longer. :)
“Mourning Star” by Amanda Flower was an interesting mystery. This author does other great Amish mysteries and this one was a bit different from them. Eden is New Order Amish and her family owns a candy shop! Yum!
“In the Stars” by Cindy Woodsmall I was a bit worried about. I haven’t really been a fan of any books I’ve read by this author, so I was hesitant about this novella. I actually enjoyed it much more than the books I’ve read by her and I like it, even if I was a bit confused by the story at first.
And lastly, “Star of Grace” by Mindy Starns Clark & Emily Clark. Don’t get me wrong, this was a cute novella, but it just didn’t top any of the other novellas in this collection. Sam & Andy’s relationship was sweet.
Overall? I have to say I was surprised that I enjoyed the last two (due to prior reads of their books), but this really was a fun Christmas collection. :)
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 publisher (Waterbrook Press) for this honest review.
About this book:
“One night four lives entered the world by the hands of an Amish midwife, just outside North Star, Pennsylvania.
Rebekah’s babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, love, and the wonder of Christmas.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Guiding Star” by Katie Ganshert
About this book:
“Curiosity gets the best of Englisher Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & forgiving; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; A few Scriptures are mentioned & talked about; Christmas & a song; A candle light service & a couple mentions of a sermon; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of church; A mention of Bible reading; A mention of sin, Adam & Eve.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘sucker’; A mentions of cigarettes, drinking & gambling; A mention of divorce; Mentions of tempers, abuse & hitting.
Sexual Content- an almost kiss, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed, two semi-detailed kisses and a borderline semi-detailed // detailed kiss; Wanting to kiss; Mentions of kissing & mistletoe; Touches & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Noticing; A mention of a hand holding; A couple mentions of a 13 year old having a boyfriend; A mention of a teen pregnancy; A couple mentions of breast feeding; Love, falling in love, and the emotions.
-Noelle McAllister
-Chase Wellington
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Mourning Star” by Amanda Flower
About this book:
“Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac Yoder. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jacob, an angry Englisher, or someone else?”
Spiritual Content- Christmas; Mentions of the Lord’s day.
Negative Content- All about a murder, a drug & violence (barely-above-not-detailed).
Sexual Content- Touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Staring; Mentions of a handsome man; A bit of love & falling in love.
-Eden Hochstetter, age 24-25
P.O.V. of Eden
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“In the Stars” by Cindy Woodsmall
About this book:
“Kore Detweiler has nursed his broken heart, avoiding North Star after Savilla Beiler suddenly rejected his love. But when he is called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.”
Spiritual Content- A couple Prayers; A couple Scriptures are mentioned; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Christmas & mentions of Jesus; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of church.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm; A mention of drinking.
Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, three barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (barley-above-not-detailed): Mentions of rumored cheating; Mentions of a woman’s cycles & a hysterectomy; Love, falling in love & the emotions;
*Note: A mention of a puppy-mill & a familial interbreeding.
-Savilla Beiler, age 24-25
-Kore Detweiler, age 28/29 (?)
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) 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- Three Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
“Star of Grace” by Mindy Starns Clark & Emily Clark
About this book:
“Andy Danner left North Star to work in construction in a new Amish settlement in Louisiana. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas, and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in an old widower’s life.”
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Talks about God & forgiving; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; A Scripture is mentioned; Christmas & a mention of Bible reading; Mentions of God; Mentions of church; A couple mentions of devotions.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘crummy’, three ‘dumb’s and four ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm; A couple mentions of blood & an injury (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); A few mentions of prison, drinking & an accident.
Sexual Content- Warmth & an Embrace (semi-detailed); Noticing; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Sam Danner, age 24-25
-Andy Danner, age 12
-Nellie Umble
P.O.V. switches between them
100(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
This was a very well done novella collection. I loved how all the novellas were connected by more than just a plot thread, like other Amish novella collections I’ve read in the past. My favorite to not-so-favorite are actually in the order they are written in this book, so that’s easy to type out. :)
“Guiding Star” by Katie Ganshert was my favorite of this collection. It was different, not a true Amish story, but had mostly Englishers in it. I loved the adoption parts of this plot and found it all really interesting. It got my attention fast and I wish it was longer. :)
“Mourning Star” by Amanda Flower was an interesting mystery. This author does other great Amish mysteries and this one was a bit different from them. Eden is New Order Amish and her family owns a candy shop! Yum!
“In the Stars” by Cindy Woodsmall I was a bit worried about. I haven’t really been a fan of any books I’ve read by this author, so I was hesitant about this novella. I actually enjoyed it much more than the books I’ve read by her and I like it, even if I was a bit confused by the story at first.
And lastly, “Star of Grace” by Mindy Starns Clark & Emily Clark. Don’t get me wrong, this was a cute novella, but it just didn’t top any of the other novellas in this collection. Sam & Andy’s relationship was sweet.
Overall? I have to say I was surprised that I enjoyed the last two (due to prior reads of their books), but this really was a fun Christmas collection. :)
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 publisher (Waterbrook Press) for this honest review.
December 22, 2015
Amish Christmas at North Star is a nicely woven Christmas story, whether you’re into Amish romances or just looking for a good relaxing read. It’s pleasantly, but not excessively, seasonal too, making it a great read for any time of year. The paths of its four protagonists, born the same day, are completely different of course, and told by different authors. But the town where they were born, the community that loves them, and the midwife, who oversaw their first breath, tie their tales together. The way that relational ties have stretched over time, almost to breaking, without destroying hope or killing the spirit, is what binds these stories as one and makes them such a perfect Christmas read.
The stories are set around Christmas, of course, and start when a young reporter decides to follow up on an old newspaper story. Multiple characters, like the disparate parts of a reader's heart, take the stage--orphan, reject and runaway; believer, doubter and conformist; unforgiven and unable to forgive. Lessons are learned with unobtrusive faith and fascinating detail, bringing the Amish world to life within its surroundings of modern America.
I learned details I’d never imagined about Amish family life and Amish Christmases in this book. I found wise lessons illustrated too, in trust and forgiveness. And I enjoyed a beautifully Christian read, with no oppressive lecturing; just gentle reminders, real characters, and a story arc that pleasingly binds up hearts and brings tales and people together. I love this book so much I promptly gave it to my mum to read, and she loves it too.
Disclosure: Blogging for Books provided this book to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
The stories are set around Christmas, of course, and start when a young reporter decides to follow up on an old newspaper story. Multiple characters, like the disparate parts of a reader's heart, take the stage--orphan, reject and runaway; believer, doubter and conformist; unforgiven and unable to forgive. Lessons are learned with unobtrusive faith and fascinating detail, bringing the Amish world to life within its surroundings of modern America.
I learned details I’d never imagined about Amish family life and Amish Christmases in this book. I found wise lessons illustrated too, in trust and forgiveness. And I enjoyed a beautifully Christian read, with no oppressive lecturing; just gentle reminders, real characters, and a story arc that pleasingly binds up hearts and brings tales and people together. I love this book so much I promptly gave it to my mum to read, and she loves it too.
Disclosure: Blogging for Books provided this book to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2024
I love Christmas stories as well as Amish stories and this was a good combo. It is 4 short stories, interconnected and wrapped up in he end. If you like heartwarming stories bout love and family it is a Nice read.
January 5, 2023
Meh. I did a lot of fast forwarding. Sometimes you think you want something light and cheery and seasonal, but then you really don't. ;)
December 30, 2015
Amish Christmas at North Star was such a fun collection of novellas. I loved the way all four stories were tied together and introduced in the prologue.
I really did enjoy each novella, however, Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert was my very favorite. This novella not only captured me but also felt like a full and complete story with no rushing through the ending.
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower was also very good, however, the ending felt sudden. I wanted another chapter! I guess that proves I was really enjoying the story. This was the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the light mystery.
I thought that In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall was a very touching story. There was a lot of hurt and pain that had to be worked through in this one. I liked these characters a lot and wanted to see a little more of their happiness at the end than I got to witness. I was also enjoying this one a great deal to not want it to end where it did!
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark was a sweet story that focused mostly on the hard work of a young boy to bring his brother home and reunite him with the woman he loved. It was not a typical romance, however, it was satisfying and an enjoyable novella.
This is definitely a Christmas collection I recommend to fans of Amish fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I really did enjoy each novella, however, Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert was my very favorite. This novella not only captured me but also felt like a full and complete story with no rushing through the ending.
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower was also very good, however, the ending felt sudden. I wanted another chapter! I guess that proves I was really enjoying the story. This was the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the light mystery.
I thought that In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall was a very touching story. There was a lot of hurt and pain that had to be worked through in this one. I liked these characters a lot and wanted to see a little more of their happiness at the end than I got to witness. I was also enjoying this one a great deal to not want it to end where it did!
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark was a sweet story that focused mostly on the hard work of a young boy to bring his brother home and reunite him with the woman he loved. It was not a typical romance, however, it was satisfying and an enjoyable novella.
This is definitely a Christmas collection I recommend to fans of Amish fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
April 28, 2016
Amish is not what I always love to read, but since Katie Ganshert wrote one of the stories I had to read it! I also like Cindy Woodsmall as well and ends up their two stories are my favorite in this book. The first story is so very good and it leads into the rest of the stories as well. Each story, while different, all tie in together which makes this book one of the better collections I have read. The setting is a cozy Christmas scene and makes you want it to start snowing! All of the characters are well written by each author and if you like reading Amish fiction you will enjoy this book!
"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."
November 1, 2015
As I expected, the novella by Katie Ganshert was my favorite. I was surprised to find out that I also enjoyed the novella by Amanda Flower...
Fans of Amish fiction will enjoy this!
Fans of Amish fiction will enjoy this!
January 9, 2024
An interesting collection of Amish novellas that all have one common thread. Four babies were born on a stormy winter night by one midwife. It was the talk of the town and of the nation. Decades later one reporter wants to do a follow up piece and see where the Amish babies are now. Each novella in this collection focuses on a different baby. One is a murder mystery with a fudge shop, another is about an adopted English girl that discovers her birth family was Amish. In another, a woman breaks off her engagement with her beloved over mysterious circumstances. And in the last a twelve year old boy will stop at nothing to get his older brother home for Christmas. All have ties to the North Star Amish community, and all the stories take place at Christmas. I actually did enjoy all four. I wouldn't mind reading another collection like this!
February 5, 2020
I quite liked the first story, written by an author I already really liked, and the last one was OK too. The two middle ones were a bit ho-hum and I struggled to remember the story lines by the time I finished the book.
December 15, 2019
A thoroughly enjoyable novella collection for the Christmas season. Add this one to your list for holiday reads now or in the future. I think you'll enjoy!
January 17, 2020
A wonderful book of 4 stories, each unique and yet all tue into one common thread! I enjoyed each story as well as the characters ! Great authors collaboration !
November 5, 2015
About the Book:
One night four lives entered the world by the hands of an Amish midwife, just outside North Star, Pennsylvania.
Rebekah’s babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, love, and the wonder of Christmas.
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Curiosity gets the best of Englisher Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac Yoder. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jacob, an angry Englisher, or someone else?
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Kore Detweiler has nursed his broken heart, avoiding North Star after Savilla Beiler suddenly rejected his love. But when he is called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner left North Star to work in construction in a new Amish settlement in Louisiana. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas, and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in an old widower’s life.
My Review:
It's good to read a novella because you get a chance to sample several different authors and find a favorite or two. I love Christmas fiction, it really gets you into the holiday spirit and Amish Christmas at North Star is no different. Each of the four authors collaborated on this and it all centers around one person with which all the main characters have a connection. Rebekah has been a midwife for over twenty years so she has a wealth of experience as we will soon see.
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
While going there for a totally different reason Elle finds love in the most unexpected place.
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden is devastated when she learns of her friends death. she has to get down to the bottom of it and fast.
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
It is all about business and they must set aside their differences in this beautiful love and lost romance.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Somebody is up to something especially when it comes to Andy's little brother. He sees someone in need and believes his big brother is the answer.
A good mix of love, lost love, mystery, and intrigue! Each character and their story line will leave you reeling. Perfect book to get cozy by the fire on a blustery fall day. Loved each and every story. This book is definitely a keeper!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review through Blogging for Books.
One night four lives entered the world by the hands of an Amish midwife, just outside North Star, Pennsylvania.
Rebekah’s babies, as they are called, are now grown adults and in four heartwarming novellas each young person experiences a journey of discovery, love, and the wonder of Christmas.
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Curiosity gets the best of Englisher Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac Yoder. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jacob, an angry Englisher, or someone else?
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Kore Detweiler has nursed his broken heart, avoiding North Star after Savilla Beiler suddenly rejected his love. But when he is called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner left North Star to work in construction in a new Amish settlement in Louisiana. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas, and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in an old widower’s life.
My Review:
It's good to read a novella because you get a chance to sample several different authors and find a favorite or two. I love Christmas fiction, it really gets you into the holiday spirit and Amish Christmas at North Star is no different. Each of the four authors collaborated on this and it all centers around one person with which all the main characters have a connection. Rebekah has been a midwife for over twenty years so she has a wealth of experience as we will soon see.
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
While going there for a totally different reason Elle finds love in the most unexpected place.
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden is devastated when she learns of her friends death. she has to get down to the bottom of it and fast.
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
It is all about business and they must set aside their differences in this beautiful love and lost romance.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Somebody is up to something especially when it comes to Andy's little brother. He sees someone in need and believes his big brother is the answer.
A good mix of love, lost love, mystery, and intrigue! Each character and their story line will leave you reeling. Perfect book to get cozy by the fire on a blustery fall day. Loved each and every story. This book is definitely a keeper!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review through Blogging for Books.
March 14, 2016
This is easily one of the most heartwarming collections of stories that I have ever read, and the beauty of this book will undoubtedly stay with every reader long after they put it down. If you are looking for a meaningful Christian fiction contemporary that focuses on breathtaking journeys, I highly suggest this one. Up until this point, I had never read a single story featuring Amish characters even though there are several on my shelves. I recently decided that this needed to be rectified immediately, though. In the end, picking up Amish Christmas at North Star was a smart decision. While not everyone can relate to the Amish, everyone can certainly relate to these graceful, inspiring stories that these peole are featured in.
What really stood out to me in Amish Christmas at North Star was the heavy focus on so many important topics, such as redemption, forgiveness, and even new beginnings. Each novella left me feeling so warm and fuzzy inside, which I was honestly not expecting to happen as strongly as it did. On top of that, there was not only romantic highlights in each marvelous entry, but there was also a familial love that was featured, which I absolutely cherished. This aspect was admittedly my favorite part of the entire book. Especially in Star of Grace, the brotherly love was absolutely adorable, charming, and affectionate. Also, the stories were in no way preachy or forceful in their messages, but rather they were fondly subtle and honest, bringing each novella to a satisfying conclusion.
Amish Christmas at North Star is a book that is sure to warm the soul. Each author is terribly talented and was able to create stories that wove into each other in inexplicable, mystifying ways. I was continually amazed at how they were all able to show God's unconditional love and baffling ways of working through others to spread His message and devotion. This book was able to start off beautifully engaging and ended in the exact same way. The Amish and Christmas settings were perfect and set up a beautiful backdrop for four incredible stories. I highly recommend reading this during the Christmas season, but this by no way means that it can't be read during any other time! Its winter context may be seasonal but its messages are not.
Please note that I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
You can see reviews like this one and more at http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.com/.
What really stood out to me in Amish Christmas at North Star was the heavy focus on so many important topics, such as redemption, forgiveness, and even new beginnings. Each novella left me feeling so warm and fuzzy inside, which I was honestly not expecting to happen as strongly as it did. On top of that, there was not only romantic highlights in each marvelous entry, but there was also a familial love that was featured, which I absolutely cherished. This aspect was admittedly my favorite part of the entire book. Especially in Star of Grace, the brotherly love was absolutely adorable, charming, and affectionate. Also, the stories were in no way preachy or forceful in their messages, but rather they were fondly subtle and honest, bringing each novella to a satisfying conclusion.
Amish Christmas at North Star is a book that is sure to warm the soul. Each author is terribly talented and was able to create stories that wove into each other in inexplicable, mystifying ways. I was continually amazed at how they were all able to show God's unconditional love and baffling ways of working through others to spread His message and devotion. This book was able to start off beautifully engaging and ended in the exact same way. The Amish and Christmas settings were perfect and set up a beautiful backdrop for four incredible stories. I highly recommend reading this during the Christmas season, but this by no way means that it can't be read during any other time! Its winter context may be seasonal but its messages are not.
Please note that I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
You can see reviews like this one and more at http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.com/.
January 1, 2017
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Curiosity gets the best of Englischer Chase Wellington when he investigates the twenty-five-year-old disappearance of an Amish baby. When he finds adventurous Elle McAllister in Iowa will his discoveries upend her world?
My thoughts: This was a very sweet romance. I loved Chase. He was a dear, kind, considerate, and smart. Elle was a dear, and as much as she and her adoptive mother imagined where she came from she had never guessed the truth. Beautiful story. Unfinished- but maybe it will be wrapped up at the end of the book...
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler slips from her parents’ fudge shop to investigate the death of her friend Isaac. Who is guilty? Isaac’s handsome great nephew Jesse, an angry Englischer, or someone else?
My thoughts: This is the first story I ever read by Ms. Flower's. It is a cozy mystery, where Eden and her friend Gina investigates a murder of an Amish man - the story was good. Not what I expected, but very good. I suspected who-dun-it, but hadn't made the connection between suspect to yeah, "he" did it by the time the story ended so it was a bit of surprise to me.
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Heartbroken Kore Detweiler avoids North Star after Savilla Beiler rejects his love. But when he is unexpectedly called to return home, he and Savilla must join forces to keep a family together.
My thoughts: It was interesting reading Kore and Savilla's story. While a romance it took some cunexpected twists and a lot of anger for these characters to find themselves. I did skim this story a lot, but enjoyed getting reacquainted with characters from another one of Ms. Woodsmall's books.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner left North Star to join a new Amish settlement in Mississippi. His little brother devises a scheme to bring Andy home for Christmas and unwittingly unleashes the power of forgiveness in a reclusive widower’s life.
My thoughts: This was my favorite story in the collection. I loved Sam and how dedicated he was to t he family and people he loved and how determined he was to reach his goals. And how unselfishly he gave when the need arose. A very sweet story, the best one in this collection. Loved it.
My thoughts: First, the disclaimer. "I was bought this book. All opinions are my own." That done, I enjoyed this collection of four Amish stories centered around one birthing center and four babies born the same day, twenty-five years prior. I liked find out how all those babies turned out -- and the first story's strings that were left untied were neatly tied and trimmed by the end of the book.
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
“Josh said she was too picky. But to Elle it was a matter of not settling.”
~ Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
When Amish midwife Rebekah Schlabach delivers four babies on one blizzardy night, adventures are certain to follow. Each of the novellas in Amish Christmas at North Star tells the story of one of “Rebekah’s babies.”
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Noelle “Elle” McAllister’s journey to find her birth mother takes her back to where her life began: the birthing center in North Star, Pennsylvania. Will she find more than she bargained for once she arrives?
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler attempts to uncover the truth about an elderly friend’s death. Will she also find love, or only a similar demise as her friend?
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Savilla “Savvy” Beiler faces a grim future yet doesn’t tell the one person she loves the most. Will unexpected responsibilities during the holiday season force her to reveal her secret?
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner has no plans to return home after his fiancée jilted him, but his little brother believes the two should reconcile. Will a promise bring Andy home against his wishes?
The only author I’d ever read before out of the five who contributed to this beautiful novella collection was Katie Ganshert. I’ve enjoyed her other books very much, so I decided to give Amish Christmas at North Star a try, even though it was a new genre for Katie. I’m so glad I did! Each story brought a unique point of view and left me wanting much more. Could there be a sequel to this book, please? I’ll be looking for more books by all of these authors.
Some of the notes I took while reading this collection:
“intrigued me right away”
“wrapped itself around my heart as if it were a vine clinging to a tree”
“characters that kept me laughing and glued to the page”
“great twist”
“forced the lead characters to work together when they weren’t on good terms, which makes for interesting drama”
“delightful Christmas story”
This book would make a wonderful Christmas gift for those booklovers on your list!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.
“Josh said she was too picky. But to Elle it was a matter of not settling.”
~ Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
When Amish midwife Rebekah Schlabach delivers four babies on one blizzardy night, adventures are certain to follow. Each of the novellas in Amish Christmas at North Star tells the story of one of “Rebekah’s babies.”
Guiding Star by Katie Ganshert
Noelle “Elle” McAllister’s journey to find her birth mother takes her back to where her life began: the birthing center in North Star, Pennsylvania. Will she find more than she bargained for once she arrives?
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower
Eden Hochstetler attempts to uncover the truth about an elderly friend’s death. Will she also find love, or only a similar demise as her friend?
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall
Savilla “Savvy” Beiler faces a grim future yet doesn’t tell the one person she loves the most. Will unexpected responsibilities during the holiday season force her to reveal her secret?
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark
Andy Danner has no plans to return home after his fiancée jilted him, but his little brother believes the two should reconcile. Will a promise bring Andy home against his wishes?
The only author I’d ever read before out of the five who contributed to this beautiful novella collection was Katie Ganshert. I’ve enjoyed her other books very much, so I decided to give Amish Christmas at North Star a try, even though it was a new genre for Katie. I’m so glad I did! Each story brought a unique point of view and left me wanting much more. Could there be a sequel to this book, please? I’ll be looking for more books by all of these authors.
Some of the notes I took while reading this collection:
“intrigued me right away”
“wrapped itself around my heart as if it were a vine clinging to a tree”
“characters that kept me laughing and glued to the page”
“great twist”
“forced the lead characters to work together when they weren’t on good terms, which makes for interesting drama”
“delightful Christmas story”
This book would make a wonderful Christmas gift for those booklovers on your list!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.
November 18, 2015
I usually skip over novellas but at Christmastime I devour them. Some people love Christmas movies, I love Christmas novellas. It's such a treat to snuggle up in the evening with a quick read. Amish Christmas at North Star is an even bigger bonus because it includes four novellas in one book.
Katie Ganshert sets the stage with the backstory of a cold and snowy night when four babies were born by the hands of an Amish midwife named Rebekah Schlabach. The circumstances were so unusual that the new little ones were forever dubbed "Rebekah's Babies".
The novellas then take up the individual stories of the babies twenty-five years later. What I really enjoyed about each story was that the author's personal style shined through. For instance Amanda Flower writes some really great cozy mysteries and her story in the book includes a bit of mystery along with the theme.
All of the authors are some of my personal favorites so I don't think that I could really choose a favorite story among them. While each of the stories relates to the opening they are also very stand alone. In fact other than the main characters being born on the same night and the central story revolving somewhat around North Star I didn't really find much that connected them until the ending that tied it all together nicely.
This book would make the perfect stocking stuffer for the book lover on your list. You could also pair it with a box of hot chocolate and fuzzy socks and it would become a full fledged present. Whatever you decide you can't go wrong with this group of writers.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
Katie Ganshert sets the stage with the backstory of a cold and snowy night when four babies were born by the hands of an Amish midwife named Rebekah Schlabach. The circumstances were so unusual that the new little ones were forever dubbed "Rebekah's Babies".
The novellas then take up the individual stories of the babies twenty-five years later. What I really enjoyed about each story was that the author's personal style shined through. For instance Amanda Flower writes some really great cozy mysteries and her story in the book includes a bit of mystery along with the theme.
All of the authors are some of my personal favorites so I don't think that I could really choose a favorite story among them. While each of the stories relates to the opening they are also very stand alone. In fact other than the main characters being born on the same night and the central story revolving somewhat around North Star I didn't really find much that connected them until the ending that tied it all together nicely.
This book would make the perfect stocking stuffer for the book lover on your list. You could also pair it with a box of hot chocolate and fuzzy socks and it would become a full fledged present. Whatever you decide you can't go wrong with this group of writers.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
October 18, 2015
I love finding books that include stories written by various authors, especially when those stories are tied together and with Amish Christmas at North Star the common denominator was the Amish midwife Rebecca that helped bring four babies into the world in North Star, PA. Each story, is different but also has similarities, and the one thing I enjoyed was the epilogue that provided insight at the end. I have to say I have always been a fan of Cindy Woodsmall, so her story was probably my favorite. Kore Detweiler wonders if he will ever get over missing Savilla Beiler, the girl who held his heart. When he is ask to return to the town of North Star, a place he avoids because of Savilla one can't help but wonder what will happen. The idea of buying auction pieces, and traveling to various antique shops really piqued my interest and the story that unfolds is heartwarming.
The Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark was another stand out for me because the setting was unique for an Amish story, and the message of forgiveness was well done. Mystery, romance, along with an inspirational feel is what you will find within the pages of this collection. The fact that the stories take place during the holidays was an added bonus for me. If you are new to Amish fiction this book is a great way to sample the works of these authors, but if your like me and you love Amish fiction then this is a book you are certainly going to enjoy.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
The Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark was another stand out for me because the setting was unique for an Amish story, and the message of forgiveness was well done. Mystery, romance, along with an inspirational feel is what you will find within the pages of this collection. The fact that the stories take place during the holidays was an added bonus for me. If you are new to Amish fiction this book is a great way to sample the works of these authors, but if your like me and you love Amish fiction then this is a book you are certainly going to enjoy.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
January 14, 2016
Amish Christmas at North Star was officially my first ever Amish Fiction Book. I adore all things Katie Ganshert, so I fully intended to just read her novella, Guiding Star (which ended up being my favorite of all four stories). After reading her story I realized all 4 stories were intertwined. I loved the premise of the story - 4 Amish babies born on a snowy December night by 1 midwife and where they all are 25 years later. I also read this over the Christmas Season, so it seemed especially endearing.
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower was a sweet story too. Probably my 2nd favorite story in the book. It did seem to have a rushed ending though. Didn't know it was possible to have a murder mystery Amish fiction, but I enjoyed it immensely. I'm intrigued to read some of her other books too.
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall was neat story, but there were so many characters that I found myself getting confused. I had to keep re-reading things and trying to remember who was who. I did like the story overall. Loved how adoption was a big focus of this story.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark was a sweet story about brotherly love. It definitely wasn't your typical romance either.
Like I mentioned before, I didn't intend to read the whole book initially, but it really drew me in. So glad I read it all. I have no idea if this is typical Amish Fiction, but if so - I could totally see myself reading more of it.
Mourning Star by Amanda Flower was a sweet story too. Probably my 2nd favorite story in the book. It did seem to have a rushed ending though. Didn't know it was possible to have a murder mystery Amish fiction, but I enjoyed it immensely. I'm intrigued to read some of her other books too.
In the Stars by Cindy Woodsmall was neat story, but there were so many characters that I found myself getting confused. I had to keep re-reading things and trying to remember who was who. I did like the story overall. Loved how adoption was a big focus of this story.
Star of Grace by Mindy Starns Clark and Emily Clark was a sweet story about brotherly love. It definitely wasn't your typical romance either.
Like I mentioned before, I didn't intend to read the whole book initially, but it really drew me in. So glad I read it all. I have no idea if this is typical Amish Fiction, but if so - I could totally see myself reading more of it.
September 17, 2016
You get to hear about all four babies that were born near Christmas. Rebecca is an Amish midwife. In Guiding Star it about a 25-year old disappearing from an Amish baby. Will there be love for Elle McAllister? We get a quite a nice way to see what her life is like after being born on that snowy night with three other babies.
Morning Star is about a girl named Eden Hochstetler. She wants to investigate her friends Isaac death. It has got her thinking about who could have done it and hurt Isaac. She meets his great nephew Jesse. Who is guilty? Does she start to fall for Jesse? Who in their community is the one to hurt Isaac and want him killed.
What happens in the Stars”, is about a family that wants to stay together. Will Kole, and Savilla be able to do that and still find love for themselves, What can make to lives back together with other than a trouble of children? One that is expecting to get another member adopted and brought home. Kole and Savilla you can find out more about them.
Andy is schemed to bring back home. His little brother tries to fetch him home and this is a story of Grace. I really do enjoy the family and time together. Will Andy find love while he comes home and is forgiven?
Morning Star is about a girl named Eden Hochstetler. She wants to investigate her friends Isaac death. It has got her thinking about who could have done it and hurt Isaac. She meets his great nephew Jesse. Who is guilty? Does she start to fall for Jesse? Who in their community is the one to hurt Isaac and want him killed.
What happens in the Stars”, is about a family that wants to stay together. Will Kole, and Savilla be able to do that and still find love for themselves, What can make to lives back together with other than a trouble of children? One that is expecting to get another member adopted and brought home. Kole and Savilla you can find out more about them.
Andy is schemed to bring back home. His little brother tries to fetch him home and this is a story of Grace. I really do enjoy the family and time together. Will Andy find love while he comes home and is forgiven?
December 30, 2015
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Amish Christmas at North Star offers a wonderful collection of holiday novellas from authors Cindy Woodsmall, Mindy Starns Clark (with Emily Clark), Amanda Flower, and Katie Ganshert. With mystery, romance, and cozy Christmas feelings, these four heartwarming novellas tell different and unique stories, each involving great characters, but all tie together quite nicely. Any reader of Amish fiction will want to be sure to pick up Amish Christmas at North Star in the approaching Christmas season. It’s an enjoyable read and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of Amish Christmas at North Star and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Amish Christmas at North Star offers a wonderful collection of holiday novellas from authors Cindy Woodsmall, Mindy Starns Clark (with Emily Clark), Amanda Flower, and Katie Ganshert. With mystery, romance, and cozy Christmas feelings, these four heartwarming novellas tell different and unique stories, each involving great characters, but all tie together quite nicely. Any reader of Amish fiction will want to be sure to pick up Amish Christmas at North Star in the approaching Christmas season. It’s an enjoyable read and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of Amish Christmas at North Star and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 27, 2015
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
Christmas, sweet Christmas.
This book is my first experience reading an Amish story and I can happily say that I liked.
These four novellas are sweet, but also have mystery, romance and capture the essence of Christmas in a unique way.
While the stories are about different characters, the four stories are intertwined in an interesting way, so that it can said that they are the continuation of the other.
Read a book written by several authors was fascinating for me because you have the opportunity to enjoy the different narrative voices and different points of view.
If you, like me, never read anything Amish and you want to, I think this is a good book to start.
-I recieved a book from Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my honest review, which I did-
October 26, 2015
Filled with inspiration, intrigue, and romance, Amish Christmas at North Star is a wonderful collection!
While Woodsmall, Clark, and Flower are beloved authors of Amish fiction, this is Ganshert’s first foray into the genre. What a marvelous addition she is! Her story, Guiding Star, was my favorite of the collection, and I hope she will bring us more Amish stories in the future.
Although they share a common thread, the four novellas are unique, and I delighted in the charm of each one. These ladies are gifted storytellers and their stories of discovery engaged and entertained! I loved Amish Christmas at North Star and can’t wait to share this treasure with family and friends this holiday season!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
While Woodsmall, Clark, and Flower are beloved authors of Amish fiction, this is Ganshert’s first foray into the genre. What a marvelous addition she is! Her story, Guiding Star, was my favorite of the collection, and I hope she will bring us more Amish stories in the future.
Although they share a common thread, the four novellas are unique, and I delighted in the charm of each one. These ladies are gifted storytellers and their stories of discovery engaged and entertained! I loved Amish Christmas at North Star and can’t wait to share this treasure with family and friends this holiday season!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
November 4, 2015
I was most disappointed in this Christmas read. The positives are the cover is beautiful and represents the season well and the stories are set at Christmas time. The failure for me comes not really in the writing talents of these authors but the fact they are mostly Non-Amish contemporary stories with a few Amish people here and there. It's just not Amish fiction in my opinion. I've had to scale back my Amish reads because most of them are exactly like this one. I'm sorry I bought it in paperback; it was an unfortunate waste of my money.
January 20, 2016
I am not a fan of four in one stories. The reason is because they usually leave me hanging wanting more of the story itself.
However; I do love some of their other books by theirselves.
please don't hate me it just wasn't my cup of tea
However; I will strongly recommend this book to people who love 4 in 1 books.
I was given a copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
However; I do love some of their other books by theirselves.
please don't hate me it just wasn't my cup of tea
However; I will strongly recommend this book to people who love 4 in 1 books.
I was given a copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2016
I typically don't pick up Amish stories, but this one has a Katie Ganshert novella included, so I was happy to read it. The other stories, though by new-to-me-authors, were pleasant surprises. They were very cozy, sweet yet realistic stories, perfect for rounding out the Christmas season.
January 17, 2017
A lovely collection of four stories with a common theme.
January 21, 2019
Okay this I will admit, I got pulled into one story and took a break to read some of another book, read another story worked on another book. So this one I put to the side often after finishing one of the stories in it. But this is a good book. The four stories are four of a whole. It all started one snowy night when Rebekah helped bring four babies into the world. She was an Amish woman helping four Amish mothers to birth babies that would become known as Rebekah's Babies.
Years later is when the stories start. Chase Wellington wants to write a piece on the babies born that night. But he discovers that one of the babies disappeared shortly after her birth. He follows a trail that leads him to Elle McAllister who was adopted by people who weren't Amish. She had no idea who she was just that she had been adopted. But what had happened was her mother left her on a door step of a house because she couldn't take care of her out in the English world. Elle's world is rocked by the discoveries of who she is and the Amish family that she never knew she had.
Eden whose father runs an Amish candy shop, finds herself investigating the death of her dear friend, an elderly man named Isaac who shared her love for reading and even loaned her books from his own collection of books. But who would want her friend dead as he was well loved? Also could possibly Jesse his nephew have something to do with it? Or could the man who Isaac owed money? But why hasn't she heard of Jesse before from her friend? Also why has Isaac told him so much about her?
Kore avoids North Star after a bad break up with his ex-girlfriend. But she never told him why she wanted to end things. Then he gets called home when his grandmother falls and gets hurt. Kore has no choice but to return home and ends up coming face to face with Savilla. But what he finds is a woman who has changed so much since he last saw her. But they end up having to come together to take care of three children that his grandmother had agreed to take care of while their parents went on a trip to adopt their brother from another country. But his grandmother never told anyone that they were coming. Can they work together for the sake of the children? Can he forgive her for what she did instead of trusting him?
Andy left North Star with a broken heart to help out people who have been left homeless in Mississippi. But he stayed away instead of coming home to face Nellie again. His brother Sam comes up with a plan to try to get his brother home for Christmas. He will make the money to buy him a ticket himself. Sam finds himself a job but almost loses because of the one fact that he is Amish. It is up to him to show Mr. Cook that Amish are hard workers, can turn the other cheek and teach him the truth of love. Andy, Mr. Cook, and Sam all learn hard lessons in this story about the power of love and forgiveness. Sam also learns that rushing is not a good thing.
This is amazing read. Each story talks about forgiveness, love and learning not everything is as it seems at first. But in the end, Rebekah's Babies, come together to help raise money for the birthing center where they came into the world all those years ago. And Rebekah can't be prouder of the people her babies grew up to become.
Years later is when the stories start. Chase Wellington wants to write a piece on the babies born that night. But he discovers that one of the babies disappeared shortly after her birth. He follows a trail that leads him to Elle McAllister who was adopted by people who weren't Amish. She had no idea who she was just that she had been adopted. But what had happened was her mother left her on a door step of a house because she couldn't take care of her out in the English world. Elle's world is rocked by the discoveries of who she is and the Amish family that she never knew she had.
Eden whose father runs an Amish candy shop, finds herself investigating the death of her dear friend, an elderly man named Isaac who shared her love for reading and even loaned her books from his own collection of books. But who would want her friend dead as he was well loved? Also could possibly Jesse his nephew have something to do with it? Or could the man who Isaac owed money? But why hasn't she heard of Jesse before from her friend? Also why has Isaac told him so much about her?
Kore avoids North Star after a bad break up with his ex-girlfriend. But she never told him why she wanted to end things. Then he gets called home when his grandmother falls and gets hurt. Kore has no choice but to return home and ends up coming face to face with Savilla. But what he finds is a woman who has changed so much since he last saw her. But they end up having to come together to take care of three children that his grandmother had agreed to take care of while their parents went on a trip to adopt their brother from another country. But his grandmother never told anyone that they were coming. Can they work together for the sake of the children? Can he forgive her for what she did instead of trusting him?
Andy left North Star with a broken heart to help out people who have been left homeless in Mississippi. But he stayed away instead of coming home to face Nellie again. His brother Sam comes up with a plan to try to get his brother home for Christmas. He will make the money to buy him a ticket himself. Sam finds himself a job but almost loses because of the one fact that he is Amish. It is up to him to show Mr. Cook that Amish are hard workers, can turn the other cheek and teach him the truth of love. Andy, Mr. Cook, and Sam all learn hard lessons in this story about the power of love and forgiveness. Sam also learns that rushing is not a good thing.
This is amazing read. Each story talks about forgiveness, love and learning not everything is as it seems at first. But in the end, Rebekah's Babies, come together to help raise money for the birthing center where they came into the world all those years ago. And Rebekah can't be prouder of the people her babies grew up to become.
November 23, 2019
Amish Christmas at North Star is a wonderful collection of novellas, with some familiar ties. The four protagonists, were all born the same day, delivered by the same midwife. They have all taken very different paths, but are all single and either looking for love or have been hurt and do not want to find anyone to love. Each story is told by a different author, but they mesh together very well. I like that they are all set in the same area and I recognized some of the family names from other Amish stories I have read. The stories are set around Christmas, of course, but that is not the main plot, it is the story of the characters and the changes in their lives that make these novella so wonderful.
These stories are very emotional. Various issues are discussed such as spousal abuse, adoption, rejection, education of females, jealousy, murder, forgiveness and of course love. Reading about the various families and how loss has affected them was sad. Of course they all have happy endings but deal with many things to get there. In each story, lessons are learned with unobtrusive faith and detail, bringing the Amish world to life within its surroundings of modern times. I enjoyed a beautifully written Christian read, with no lecturing; just gentle reminders, and real characters. The beautiful writing brought these stories to life and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Do not shy away from this one because they are novellas, they are complete, interesting and well plotted stories. If you enjoy sweet Christmas stories or Amish Fiction, be sure to pick this one up. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
These stories are very emotional. Various issues are discussed such as spousal abuse, adoption, rejection, education of females, jealousy, murder, forgiveness and of course love. Reading about the various families and how loss has affected them was sad. Of course they all have happy endings but deal with many things to get there. In each story, lessons are learned with unobtrusive faith and detail, bringing the Amish world to life within its surroundings of modern times. I enjoyed a beautifully written Christian read, with no lecturing; just gentle reminders, and real characters. The beautiful writing brought these stories to life and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Do not shy away from this one because they are novellas, they are complete, interesting and well plotted stories. If you enjoy sweet Christmas stories or Amish Fiction, be sure to pick this one up. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
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