Christmas at Promise Lodge

Promise Lodge #2

by Charlotte Hubbard

It may take a Christmas miracle to unite an Amish widow and a preacher in this romance from the author of Morning Star. As the first wedding arrives in the brand new colony of Promise Lodge, the evidence of a community building a foundation for the future is a cause for celebration. But the bishop’s narrow-minded wedding sermon doesn’t sit well with the Bender sisters, the town’s courageous founders, especially widowed Mattie Schwartz. She believes marriage and family aren’t the most important of God’s gifts—even if she suspects her tender feelings for Preacher Amos Troyer run deeper than simple friendship.   Amos hasn’t given up hope that stubborn, spirited Mattie will change her mind about taking another husband, but when an accident threatens to change the course of his life forever, he wonders if the Lord has sent him a message. He’ll need faith, hope, and charity to find the right path—and a Christmas blessing to convince Mattie to walk it with him. 

Praise for Charlotte Hubbard“Hubbard writes Amish stories with style and grace.”—RT Book Reviews 

“Charlotte Hubbard has a way of writing that draws you into the story from beginning to end.”—Romance Junkies

Genres: Amish, Christmas, Romance, Fiction, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction, Christian

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2016

About the author

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian Charlotte Hubbard (a.k.a. Naomi King) writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Seasons of the Heart series. Like her heroine, Miriam Lantz, Charlotte considers it her personal mission to feed people—to share hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and food preservation are hallmarks of her lifestyle, and the foundation of her earlier Angels of Mercy series. She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Charlotte now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charlotte Hubbard takes her time introducing you to each of the characters and their problems and how they are feeling. I immediately felt as if I knew them all and was right there at the kitchen table hashing things out and praying. In no time, I was totally sucked in to their lives and the issues they were dealing with. The plot is very interesting and had me turning the pages late into the night. Be prepared not to do anything else once you start reading this well written and hopeful tale. When a tragic accident occurs at a gathering for those who live at Promise Lodge, events start to take a downward spiral. With the Bishop and one of the ministers being involved in the accident, the other residents of Promise wonder what lies ahead for the new colony. I found myself thinking about all of these wonderful characters long after I finished reading. How strong these people had to have been to leave their Amish community to start another one.

Three sisters leave their Amish church community to start a new one. One where the women are valued and not belittled or abused. CHRISTMAS AT PROMISE LODGE continues with these Amish women that you aren’t used to reading about. These women are independent and behave in a way that the bishop wouldn’t be happy with. These three sisters can not stand the ways things are handled in their community in Coldstream so they buy an abandoned camp ground and turn it into Promise Lodge. A place where women can come and be treated as an equal. A place for new beginnings. I really enjoyed reading up on all of the characters from the first book, Promise Lodge.

Charlotte Hubbard is now on my author radar and she will have me running to every book she releases and CHRISTMAS AT PROMISE LODGE is exactly why. When it was over, I wanted to keep reading and stay in the character’s business. I was giggling, laughing out loud and even holding back tears as I watched each of the characters grow. Charlotte Hubbard pulls you right in to all of their lives and once you start, you won’t be able to put this wonderful story down. As an added bonus, Charlotte includes recipes in the back of the book. I would love to be able to visit Promise Lodge and indulge in some of these wonderful recipes.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's never a dull moment at Promise Lodge! During the wedding of two of the residents, Bishop Floyd goes off course and makes some startling statements that set some on edge. Will Promise Lodge be what the founding sisters and Preacher Amos want it to be or will the Bishop's requirements change everything?

It was so nice to return to Promise Lodge and catch up with everyone and meet some new people along the way. While the book has a main focus on Mattie, Preacher Amos, Rosetta, Truman, Roman, Mary Kate, and Preacher Floyd, we get to follow the lives of the other residents, too. Roman and Mary Kate were favorites of mine in this book. I like how their story progressed in a natural and unassuming way.

I really like Charlotte Hubbard's writing style. Her books are so well written and there is such attention to detail that I feel as if I'm actually there and part of the story. I also like the way she portrays the Amish by having them in situations you don't read about in most Amish books but staying true to the values and ways most of us associate with the Amish lifestyle. Her books are such a joy to read.

A bonus to the book is a section at the back that includes the recipes of some of the foods the women of Promise Lodge made for everyone. I love that Charlotte takes the time to add these so you try the mouth-watering foods described in the book. The hard part will be deciding which recipe to try first.

Even though this book has Christmas in the title to me it wasn't a true Christmas story and would make a great read for any time of the year. No need to wait for the holidays; pick up a copy and escape to Promise Lodge today!

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.

[Julie Zimmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been eagerly awaiting this book since reading the first Promise Lodge book and it was so worth the wait! One of those novels you don't want to put down! It was such a pleasure to see how the colony of Promise Lodge continues to come together and grow, thanks to the dedication of Rosetta, Mattie, Christine, Amos and their families. Also, to learn more about the Lehman family and to gain an appreciation of their efforts to be part of the community. The beautiful relationship that develops between Roman and Mary Kate is deeply touching. When Amos and Bishop Floyd are both badly injured, the community's closeness is put to the test and they do not fail, really coming together as one close family to get both men on the long path to recovery. And on this path, many relationships are tested as well as renewed. Fans of Charlotte Hubbard and Wanda Brunstetter will really enjoy this book!

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back at Promise Lodge and are attending Noah and Deborah’s wedding; we read their story in the first book of The Promise Lodge series. The things that are said by the Bishop at this wedding are with us until the end of the book.
We have several new romances that have been on going and new ones that are in their infancy as we begin this book, and some are lasting and others are a figment of one person’s imagination. For Mattie and Amos you want them to have a happy life, and rekindle the love that was stolen from them in their youth, and there are others that seem destined to be denied.
Amos and the Bishop are both about to endure a very difficult time and trail, and as the book closes we still don’t know the outcome for one of them. You will witness the strong faith these people live, and for me I yearned to live amongst them. Wonder if they have any openings?
Once that cover is turned on this one you won’t want to put it down.
I received this book through Net Galley, the Publisher Kensington, and the Author, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Promise Lodge series. This is Christmas at Promise Lodge.
Doesn't sound like a festive time, when the preacher gives a sermon that the single people must marry, rather they know one another or not.
Or is the preacher hoping to regain a love when he was young, and lost. Now that Mattie and he both , have lost their mates. Her father had forced her into an abusive marriage, so does she want to remarry. Delightful blend of the Mennonites and old Amish, coming together to form a new colony. The 3 women, Mattie, Rosetta and Christine, try to befriend Mary Kate, who is 8 months pregnant. Who isn't allowed at the wedding of Noah and Deborah. But, handsome Roman comes, bringing her a plate of the wedding food, and friendship. Another delightful, heart warmer stories, by Charlotte Hubbard.
Given book by Net Galley for my honest opinion of which I have given.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas at Promise Lodge is the second book written by Charlotte Hubbard in the Promise Lodge series. Charlotte waste no time reacquainting her readers with the characters from the first book. The characters bring the right amount of love, humor, and frustration to the story to keep the readers wanting more.

When a tragic accident occurs at a gathering for those who live at Promise Lodge, events start to take a downward spiral. With the Bishop and one of the ministers being involved in the accident, the other residents of Promise wonder what lies ahead for the new colony.

While things in the romance department are looking up for Roman, Mattie is not quit sure where things stand for her. When circumstances beyond her control start taking a downward slide she wonders if life will ever be normal for her again.

Charlotte concludes this book with the introduction of a new member for Promise Lodge. However, there are alot of questions that the community have for him which leaves the readers wondering what this person is hiding and why he chose to move to Promise.

Will the newcomer bring peace to Promise? Will things ever return to normal for Mattie? I know I will be anxiously waiting for the next book to see what will develope next. I highly recommend this book to all those who are interested in the Amish genre. Charlotte Hubbard has once again delivered a book that is hard to put down.

I was given an advanced copy of Christmas at Promise Lodge in exchange for my honest review. I was not encouraged to deliver a positive review. I have given this wonderful book a five star rating and encourage everyone to read it. Congratulations Charlotte Hubbard on another great book!

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving the Promise Lodge series and enjoyed this book so much. It is a great book to get anyone into the Christmas mood. Charlotte Hubbard is such a good author. Her characters are unique and so interesting that it is hard to stop reading the books. She is amongst my favorite Amish authors and I hope to read as many of her books as I can.

The Promise Lodge is about a new start-up Amish community and the trials, happiness and struggles that come with it, and some sweet romance to add to the mix.

This light and fun read will be a great addition to any reader's collection of Amish books. Ms. Hubbard knows the Amish and has some very good insights to the day to day life of this group of people. I am very anxious for the next book in the series! Can't wait!

I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so pleased to read a story that involves characters of various ages, including older people. Amos and Mattie have known each other since childhood and a romance begins for them. An accident causes Amos to become depressed and he feels that Mattie should not agree to marry him. Will he change his mind? Will they marry?
In another part of the story, a baby is on the way for one young lady. Will she have to raise this baby alone or will she find love? This is the first Charlotte Hubbard story that I have read and I plan to read all of her books.
I received a copy of this story from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of Christmas at Promise Lodge. A really good story.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas at Promise Lodge is the second installment from the Promise Lodge series. I thought this Amish Christmas story was great.
5 stars.

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second novel of the series continues the story of Mattie and her sisters, and their developing community. A new bishop has arrived, and he admonishes the eligible Amish that they need to marry other Amish and have children to strengthen the new and growing community. His address in a wedding sermon does not sit well with those he named. But an horrible accident that occurred later takes the focus away from his words and into a different direction, one of coping with two people who were severely injured. This novel is appealing for many reasons - the intriguing story, the Christmas setting, the arrival of new people, including a new bishop - but the main attraction to me is the character growth of the people in the story, and not just the main characters. Readers get to witness both their strengths and weaknesses as they deal with the joys and disappointments life brings. This well written story illustrates Christian values as well as the shortcomings all Christians have, and how they rely on God to help them in their struggles.

[Jackie Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have really gotten into these books. Are Amish but not so near to old school. Well Written and draw you in with characters.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard is the second book in the Promise Lodge series. Mattie Schwartz is ready for the wedding of her son, Noah and his fiancé, Deborah in Promise, Missouri. It starts out as a lovely ceremony until Bishop Lehman gets personal. He states that the other unmarried people (he even names certain individuals) need to get married (he even gives them a time limit). This is not the vision Mattie, Christine, Rosetta, and Amos had for Promise Lodge. Bishop Lehman also does not want women to own and run businesses (he wants them at home cleaning and raising children). The community is upset, but they do not let it ruin this special day for Noah and Deborah. Later Amos proposes to Mattie and she accepts (not because of the Bishop). When Amos tries to get a Frisbee off a shed roof, the roof collapses. Bishop Lehman rushes over and acts like he is going to catch Amos (very odd). Both men end up hurt. Amos has a concussion and he has to stay in a dark room. He needs complete rest for several weeks as he recovers. Bishop Lehman is told to rest, and he refuses to listen (checks himself out of hospital). Bishop Lehman ends up suffering a stroke and loses his ability to speak (he will need therapy). Amos gets frustrated at being cooped up and takes it out on Mattie. Amos, Mattie, and the Lehman family are in for a rough time. They will need faith and prayer to get them through. Join Mattie, Christine, Amos, and Rosetta at the Promise Lodge and see how they handle these difficulties.

Christmas at Promise Lodge is well-written, has a good flow, and engaging characters. Charlotte Hubbard is a descriptive writer. She describes things in a way so the reader can see them in their head. There is quite a bit going on in the book. For example, Mary Ann is unwed and pregnant (it is not her fault but her father acts like it is), Amos gets a chance to made amends with his family, and so much more. It is a lovely story about faith and the power of prayer. Christmas at Promise Lodge is a heartwarming story. While it is set during December and into January, it is not a Christmas story (unfortunately). I give Christmas at Promise Lodge 4 out of 5 stars. I have to admit that I get frustrated at times reading about such outmoded ideas. That the woman belongs at home and cannot own/run her own business (this is not the 1800 or even 1950). These are not the ideals I taught my daughter (can you tell that I am an independent woman). This is the second book in the Promise Lodge series and it is not a stand-alone novel. There are quite a few characters and it can be confusing. You need to read the first book in order to understand the people and their vision for Promise Lodge. If you try starting with the second book, you will be lost in the beginning (when you get all the characters thrown at you). I received a free copy of this book. Receipt of the free book did not influence my voluntary review.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a return to Promise Lodge, we find that the community continues to thrive and grow. The first official wedding is taking place but when Bishop Floyd veers off course in the ceremony, the community becomes unsettled. Mattie, Rosetta, Christine, and Preacher Amos wonder if Promise Lodge will be able to continue as the community they founded it to be.

I love how this story centers itself on Mattie, Amos, and the sweet romance developing between them. However, when things take a turn because of an unexpected accident, will Mattie and Amos be strong enough to see it through to the other side. The characters are well written and developed. I love how Ms. Hubbard shows the strength of the characters. The community really comes together when tragedy strikes. This shows that no matter what faith one has you can always come together is you so choose.

As a side note, the romance that develops between Roman and Mary Kate adds the nicest story to this book. I find it quite refreshing that the young man is able to look past what is considered a grave sin in their communities. He sees the real young woman that Mary Kate is becoming.

I highly recommend Promise Lodge and that the reader take a visit there. An added bonus is the recipes included at the end. I cannot wait to try some of the food that these woman cook and bake. I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Hubbard starts her story at a wedding…what a joyous occasion! Mattie Schwartz’s youngest son Noah and Deborah Peterscheim are getting married. Promise Lodge is full of activity and joy. That was the first time. The Lodge was also a bundle of activity and joy when the community spent their first Christmas together there.

Bishop Floyd and his family left their settlement and moved to Promise because their daughter Mary Kate had been raped by an English man and was pregnant. They thought they could use a fresh start in a new community. Even in this new community, he didn’t want her seen in public more than was necessary. Therefore, she sat a home while everyone enjoyed the wedding activities.

Everyone was aghast when, during the wedding ceremony, Bishop Floyd said he expected to see the widows and widowers of the community….he named them by name…..married before the first snow!

I enjoyed reading about the people of Promise Lodge. Amos and Floyd’s stubbornness and their consequences. Roman’s, Mattie’s oldest son, interest in Mary Kate. Her sister Gloria making a spectacle of herself chasing Roman. Did the widows and widowers get married as ordered by their Bishop? Rosetta’s love was Mennonite. The Bishop would never allow that. Can they find a way?

I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

CHRISTMAS AT PROMISE LODGE is the second book in Ms. Hubbard's Promise Lodge series. I -- like the Amish in this story -- was horrified when the bishop made a horrifying decree, but I loved the way Mattie used it -- despite her fears -- to listen to her heart's desire. Amos is a dear, dear man, kind and considerate, true and faithful. It was wonderful to read their story.

There is also another story intertwined (as is usually the case with Ms. Hubbard's books) and it is the story of Mary Ann is pregnant, a result of a rape. She realizes she'll be unmarried forever for who would have her? And there's Roman. The object of Mary Ann's sister's desires, being kind to her. Roman is a sweetheart, too.

There are other continuing stories intertwined. Fans will likely want to read Promise Lodge first before this one, but even if you don't I think you'll be fine if you read CHRISTMAS AT PROMISE LODGE first. It might wet your appetite for the first book - and definitely will for any future books.

Some yummy sounding recipes and an excerpt from Ms. Hubbard's May release, A Mother's Love, is included at the back of the book.

Fans of Ms. Hubbard (or Naomi King) and fans of Amish fiction will inhale this new Christmas book

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so good to be back at Promise Lodge again reading Charlotte Hubbard's newest installment in this series, Christmas at Promise Lodge. This book had me swept away with the winter sleigh rides, a love rekindled, and the hopes of families being reunited.

When an tragic accident happens I could understand the feelings that Amos dealt with. We are taken into his deep despair when he feels that all hope seems lost. I loved that he had a friend that stayed by his side. Throughout it all we are reminded to have faith in God and he will help us through no matter the outcome.

You could certainly read Christmas at Promise Lodge alone but I feel you would enjoy it more if you read the first book, Promise Lodge. Even though the time line centered around Christmas time I enjoyed reading this book in the heat of the summer. There are bonus recipes at the back of the book and yes the Chocolate gravy is included (spoiler alert)!

I can't wait to continue reading the series and find out who next decides to make Promise Lodge their home.

I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review

[Cheryl Malandrinos · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a wonderful story. Like all of Hubbard's books, it's built around a community of people. The main focus of this novel might be Mattie and Amos, but the reader is treated with how the lives of others intersect, especially in light of Bishop Floyd Lehman taking some of the community to task at the wedding.

What I feel Hubbard has always done well is shine a light on Plain communities and, through her characters, made them more relatable to others. Their work ethic, their strong faith, and their human failings are all hallmarks of her novels. Promise Lodge is a community I would love to visit...even if I can only do that in my mind.

Christmas stories tend to be my favorite, so I enjoyed the seasonal aspects of this novel. Those great recipes at the end of the book will be fun to try.

Christmas at Promise Lodge is the perfect inspirational romance of the season. Though I highly encourage readers to start at the beginning of the series, this is a stand-alone novel that can be read by itself.

I don't have the space to keep many books these days, but I'll find room for this one.

[Heather 123 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great follow up book to the first one in this series! I appreciated that the author pretty much picked up where the first book ended and didn't jump ahead significantly.

This book made me look at how the Amish handle different things including an unplanned planned from the result of a crime and love between members of different faiths.

I loved that once again the author doesn't focus on only the main characters in this book (in this case Mattie and Amos) but includes many other stories between the other characters yet does it in a way that is not confusing to the reader.

Looking forward to the next book in this series. There's a slight cliffhanger if you can even call it that, but it's a minor one as the bulk of the story is resolved before the end.

** ARC received from Netgalley **

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again I enjoyed another story by Charlotte Hubbard.
I enjoyed all the characters and felt like I was in the room with them.
I know I must have felt my mouth drop open when the Bishop revealed his unpleasant surprise?
See, I love Ms.Hubbard's style of writing and she shows us that even Bishops in Amish communities have their own struggles in life.
I loved Mary Ann. I thought she was pretty special when I met her. She didn't ask for whatever it was that happened to her.
Depending on the situation in one's life maybe they don't deserve it.
I like Mattie too. Amos is a trip.
I also loved the yummy recipes that the author has put in the book to make you drool.
Sugar Cookies are my favorite. I especially like the cookie dough.
Amish are awesome cooks!

[Veronica Rivera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply wondeeful. This is the 2nd book in the series and now I want to go and get the rest. Charlotte Hubbard tells a tale that keeps you reading and makes you not to put this book down. So pacing yourself is critical in order to enjoy all the details of the life long love that finally finds a home with Mattie and Amos. It was great to read a pure story of love between a man and a woman. Love of family, the love of sisters and girlfriends that is unconditional and steadfast. All of these types of love are interwoven throughout the story and are written wonderfully by the author.

[Lynne Bongette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wholesome, sweet story

[Jolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished the second book in the Promise Lodge series called Christmas at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard . It starts with Bishop Floyd going off-track during a wedding ceremony and telling the community that certain members, naming them specifically, need to get married before the snow flies. He also states there will be no mixed faith marriages that he will abide. This devastates Rosetta, one of the founders of the new community, since she is keeping time with their Mennonite neighbor. A terrible accident occurs that affects two of the leaders of the community. I highly recommend this excellent book as the saga of Promise Lodge continues.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas is always a special time of year, and it's no different at Promise Lodge!

Bishop Floyds vision for Promise Lodge isn't sitting well with the rest of the community, especially when he commands that all singles should be married by Christmas! To top it off, he absolutely forbids interfaith marriages, so anything for Rosetta and Truman is out of the question.

Amos wants to marry, but a serious accident puts that all into doubt.

But then, suddenly, on the Holiest of nights - Christmas Eve - a new Bishop breezes into their lives. What twist will THIS bring to their lives?

[Lindsey Ruppe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas at Promise Lodge is the second in Charlotte Hubbard's series. Definitely recommend reading the first because there is little catching up in this one. Overall, it is want bad. Granted, it is fiction but I felt it was not accurate for modern Amish life but I could be wrong. Unwed and pregnant Mattie falling in love with Roman was a big part of the novel along with a ton of characters you must've met in the previous book

[Pam A · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice Christmas story set with more liberal Amish/Mennonite (the times they are a-changing). Several sisters left the old order to start up their own colony. Basically, second chance old loves renewed. Cultural clash with medicine, women starting up their own business. But affairs of the heart know no cultural bounds.

[Katrina Lybbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoying all the characters that live in Promise, Missouri. Fun to see multiple romances taking off (Mattie and Amos, Roman and Mary Kate, Truman and Rosetta). Looking forward to the next few books in the series.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rereading this in anticipation of the new book. A wonderful story, however, there is too much of the word “MURMURED” There have got to be more ways to express someone’s words. Otherwise great story!

[Larry Munyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Good Book

Enjoyable reading, I wish the book had been much longer, but another in the series would be great, I am sure you would enjoy this book.

[Lois Troup · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Christmas story

Very good, hated to have it end. Will be glad to find next in series. Would recommend to anyone. Thanks

[Patricia Marvin Hilfiker · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this book