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Temptation #4
Deception
Growing up Amish is difficult . . . but leaving it behind is even harder.
"I loved joining Rose and Noah during their journey in the Temptation series by Karen Hopkins.” – Katie McGarry, acclaimed YA author
Being with Noah should have been impossible. We’re a family now, but problems still plague us—and our future. When my brother catches Noah’s rebellious Amish sister living a double life, the discovery plunges us all into the danger that lurks at the edges of our sleepy farming community.
Karen Ann Hopkins returns to the Temptation series with a gripping new book in the powerful family saga. Rose’s beliefs about love, family, and commitment are challenged when she finds herself in the middle of a battle to create changes in the community. And as events spiral out of control in Meadowview, an evil shadow from the past looms on the horizon, threatening not only Rose, but everyone she holds dear.
"I loved joining Rose and Noah during their journey in the Temptation series by Karen Hopkins.” – Katie McGarry, acclaimed YA author
Being with Noah should have been impossible. We’re a family now, but problems still plague us—and our future. When my brother catches Noah’s rebellious Amish sister living a double life, the discovery plunges us all into the danger that lurks at the edges of our sleepy farming community.
Karen Ann Hopkins returns to the Temptation series with a gripping new book in the powerful family saga. Rose’s beliefs about love, family, and commitment are challenged when she finds herself in the middle of a battle to create changes in the community. And as events spiral out of control in Meadowview, an evil shadow from the past looms on the horizon, threatening not only Rose, but everyone she holds dear.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2015
40 people are currently reading
1084 people want to read
About the author
Karen Ann Hopkins
43 books1,410 followersYou can visit Karen Ann Hopkins at her website: www.karenannhopkinsfiction.com.
"I loved joining Rose and Noah during their journey in the Temptation series by Karen Hopkins."-Katie McGarry, acclaimed YA author
Karen Ann Hopkins resides in northern Kentucky with her family on a farm that boasts a menagerie of horses, goats, sheep, peacocks, chickens, ducks, rabbits, pigs, dogs, and cats. Karen rescues and fosters a variety of pets and farm animals, but she also finds time to give riding lessons, coach a youth equestrian drill team, and of course, write. She was inspired to create her first book, Temptation, by the Amish community she lives in. The experiential knowledge she gained through her interactions with her neighbors drove her to create the story of the star-crossed lovers, Rose and Noah.
Karen grew up about a mile from Lake Ontario in Upstate New York. She was bitten by the horse bug at the age of five, and after diligently taking riding lessons for several years, she was rewarded with her first horse at the age of eleven. The feisty horse's name was Lady, a Quarter Horse-Thoroughbred cross, who became Karen's steadfast companion. Through the years, the constant force in her life was horses. Eventually, Karen found her place as a riding instructor herself. Before accepting her fate in the barnyard, she worked a short stint as a paralegal, traveled abroad, and guided tourists on horseback riding tours in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.
Karen is currently working on her two interconnecting mystery/crime fiction series, Serenity's Plain Secrets and Possum Gap, along with several new projects.
To learn more about Karen and her books, please visit her website.
"I loved joining Rose and Noah during their journey in the Temptation series by Karen Hopkins."-Katie McGarry, acclaimed YA author
Karen Ann Hopkins resides in northern Kentucky with her family on a farm that boasts a menagerie of horses, goats, sheep, peacocks, chickens, ducks, rabbits, pigs, dogs, and cats. Karen rescues and fosters a variety of pets and farm animals, but she also finds time to give riding lessons, coach a youth equestrian drill team, and of course, write. She was inspired to create her first book, Temptation, by the Amish community she lives in. The experiential knowledge she gained through her interactions with her neighbors drove her to create the story of the star-crossed lovers, Rose and Noah.
Karen grew up about a mile from Lake Ontario in Upstate New York. She was bitten by the horse bug at the age of five, and after diligently taking riding lessons for several years, she was rewarded with her first horse at the age of eleven. The feisty horse's name was Lady, a Quarter Horse-Thoroughbred cross, who became Karen's steadfast companion. Through the years, the constant force in her life was horses. Eventually, Karen found her place as a riding instructor herself. Before accepting her fate in the barnyard, she worked a short stint as a paralegal, traveled abroad, and guided tourists on horseback riding tours in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.
Karen is currently working on her two interconnecting mystery/crime fiction series, Serenity's Plain Secrets and Possum Gap, along with several new projects.
To learn more about Karen and her books, please visit her website.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 13, 2015
INITIAL THOUGHTS
As soon as I heard there was going to be a book 4 in the Temptation Series, I immediately yearned to read it! I needed to know what was going on in the Meadowview Amish community, how my favourite characters were doing as well as what was happening to those characters I disliked too. So this book was instantly positioned near the top of my ever lengthening wishlist. To say I am looking forward to reading this book is kind of an understatement!
MY REVIEW
I received an e-copy of this book via Deitre Helvy and her tour company A Leisure Moment free in exchange for my honest review.
The cover of the book fits in nicely with the rest of the series. The female on the front is Rachel Miller, Noah's younger sister. The background of the cover is a field and a bright blue sky. There's a byline on the cover which says, "Growing up Amish is difficult . . . . . but leaving it behind is even harder". So does that byline hint at more problems for newlyweds and new parents Noah and Rose? Or as the book is called "Rachel's Deception" is trouble just beyond that bright blue sky for Rachel Miller? I'm certainly looking forward to finding out!
Would the cover make me pick this book up from a book store shelf? This is a hard one to answer because as soon as I saw the authors name & series name , it would be off the shelf and in my basket on the way to the checkout! However regardless of the author and my prior knowledge of this brilliant series would I pick this one up from a book store shelf? I truthfully think I would, the female on the cover who turns out to be Rachel Miller, her stance and the look on her face make you want to learn more about her and what the look on her face means too.
The book begins with the prologue, which turns out to be a catch up with perhaps the last character I would have thought about. Who is the character I disliked, and mostly didn't care about? Levi Zook, the evil young Amish man who attempted to rape and assault Rose. Levi is serving his 15 year sentence, and needs to serve another 9 years before he will be eligible to apply for parole. Levi is just waking up, he is feeling cold because the guards have forced him and some other inmates to sleep naked. The guards force inmates to regular strip searches, using the nakedness to degrade the inmates. Levi is to an extent a loner, though other inmates seem to revere him and ask his advice and listen to him read his bible. The only person from the Meadowview Amish Community that has interacted with Levi in any way is Bishop Abram Lambright. The Bishop visited Levi to let him know he would never be welcome in the Meadowview community ever again, even when he had completed his prison sentence and the "Englisher's" would say he had paid his penance, Levi would never be welcome. Levi is far from pennant and still blames all his misfortune on Rose. He still hold's a grudge against her and feels he has "unfinished business".
The next character we re-visit is Rachel Miller, she's sneaking out of her Amish home, to go on another night out with some English friends. It's whilst she is out that she is recognized by Rose's brother Justin, despite her wearing English clothes. Clothes is a bit of a theme in this book as Suzanna and Miranda want to open a sewing supplies & dress shop. Will the Amish elders allow such a thing? Well with Rose on their side with a trick or two up her sleeve I'd say they have a great chance. I would think the girls in the Amish community would much rather work in a sewing supplies & dress store than the jobs the young girls usually have such as working at the butcher's or in Rachel's case working at the bird house making workshop. Rachel doesn't mind working, it gets her out of the house she just hates the tedious job she has been given of cutting the wood. Rachel has a lot to think about, her sneaking out at night to party, her sister Sarah who died in the old farmhouse during the tornado, and then she's thinking about Micah Schwartz and Justin Cameron (though she doubts her father would be pleased with either boy she likes). It's whilst she is working at the bird house workshop that Rachel has an accident. This accident alerts Dr Cameron (Rose's father) how young the girls are that are working with dangers machinery etc. Roses's fathers first instinct is to involve the authorities, he has been simmering for a long time and is somewhat eager to take this argument on with the Amish. Rose naturally tries to calm the troubled waters, and her older brother Sam even backs her up. The one with the most surprising opinion turns out to be Noah who is siding with Dr Cameron. Eventually it is agreed that Dr Cameron will speak to the Amish and give them a chance to re-arrange the workforce, before he goes to the authorities.
So there's so much happening in this book that I could go on and on forever! It's really cute to read that Noah and Rose are still as in love with each other after being married a year and having their first child. Though Noah is shunned, Rose still becomes involved in the AMish community and the community members seem to be softening towards her. How can they not when they see little baby Sarah-Ann. They are so happy, Noah is quietly adapting to the fact he is shunned by the Amish, although his friends Matthew and Timothy both speak to him during work jobs that they are all on. It is Rose that is most upset as the weddings of Suzanna & Timothy and the wedding of Miranda and Matthew approach. It seems the Amish are quite happy for Rose to attend the weddings as an "Englisher" but Noah will not be welcome to attend. I love a specific scene where Rose is asking Noah a question she both dreads hearing the answer to yet still needs to ask. Noah is as ever good natured and so loving in his reply to her that he misses some aspects of his Amish life but that he would not swap his life with Rose, Sarah-Ann and he even goes so far as to include Rose's crazy brothers in the bracket that he wouldn't want to lose.
Sam's character grows through the book very well too. He openly admits to being a hands on uncle and being on diaper duty on a regular basis. He is still happy in his relationship with Summer.
I love the fact that Sarah-Ann brings both the Englisher's and the Amish together as neither family can resist a hug and kiss with baby Sarah Anne. In fact even the strong, silent, Bishop has a smile and a loving touch for the cutie that is Sarah-Ann. I foresee this little girl bringing both sides of the communities together and wrapping her father Noah and Uncles Sam & Justin around her little finger! This little one is already a favourite character for me!
I also enjoyed catching up with the relationship between Sam and his girlfriend Summer. I loved the way Summer is described as having strawberry pink hair that mesmerizes baby Sarah-Ann. Sam and Summer really dote on Sarah-Ann. . . could there be something more permanent/an extra level of commitment coming soon for them?
So there's lots of good things happening in this book on our revisit to Meadowview, but. . . yes there had to be a but. . don't forget the Prologue you read at the very beginning of this book. Where we had a catch up with a nasty character Levi Zook, disliked by the Amish and English alike. I can't tell you what happens because I would hate it if someone told me, I will say it's something really big and involves both sides of the community. This part of the book reminded me a little more of the other series Karen Ann Hopkins writes, the Serenity's Plain Secrets Series.
Throughout the book there's also what could be described as a great "love-triangle" going on between Rachel Miller, Micah Schwartz and Justin Cameron. Micah Schwartz was originally promised to court and marry Sarah Miller, and was devastated when she died during the tornado in the last book. Are his feeling genuinely for Rachel or does he just see Sarah Miller when he gazes at her younger sister Rachel? Then the other option is Justin Cameron, Rose's youngest brother. Rachel and Justin both understand losing someone extremely important to them. Justin lost his mum and of course Rachel lost her sister Sarah. The trouble with Justin would be that he is English, would Rachel give up her way of life for him? Could she cope with being shunned like Noah has to? I usually have a favourite who I'd like to "get the girl" when I read a book with such a love triangle. This is hard though, I really like both Justin and Micah, and I honestly am not so sure which one would be the best pairing match for Rachel.
The pace of this book varies, though I have to say it is never too slow. It's kind of switches from which/whose side it is told from. Even the character I disliked Levi Zook, has things told from his point of view, and I enjoyed reading that part too. It sets the scene for what happens much later in the book. Karen is so clever as you become so enveloped in the things going on in Meadowview that you are lulled into things going so well, then wham! she hits you with Levi Zook again! We also see a different side to Noah in this particular part of the book. He is so calm, centered and matter of fact on what has to be done that he shocks Rose's youngest brother Justin when he goes ahead and carries out the action with no hesitation. I was like "Oh, Noah"! and holding my breath, and gasping all at the same time whilst reading!
So did I enjoy this book? To say I loved it, well that would be an understatement. I truly adore this series and it's characters!
Would I recommend this book? Yes! If you have read the other books in this series then this is a must read. If however you haven't read the series, where have you been, you must, no, need to read this fantastic series of books. I'll be honest I aren't a big contemporary, or romance fan but these books are exceptional. Plus you also learn about a highly fascinating culture during the characters journeys in this book series. I also love Karen Ann Hopkins other series Serenity's Plain Secrets. In fact I'd recommend Karen Ann Hopkins as an author and would want to check out any book written by her really.
Would I want to read more of this series? Yes, yes please? When can I have it to read? I have a weakness when it comes to this series, it really is addictive, but hey! being addicted to a books/fictional characters is ok right?
Would I read other titles by Karen Ann Hopkins? Yes, I already have done this with Karen's other fantastic series Serenity's Plain Secrets, I highly recommend that one too. I do also intend to begin reading Karen's Wings Of War Series soon too.
FINAL SUM UP
I really cannot shout out loud enough or find the correct words to describe well enough, how much I loved this book. I really hope (fingers crossed) that we have more to come in the Temptation Series. I want to read more about some of the other Amish characters and events such as Suzanna and Timothy's wedding, then there's Rachel's decision(hey that could be the next book! only joking Karen!) between Micah and Justin. Then there's Summer and Sam's relationship and where that may go. I'm becoming a very greedy reader I want more Noah, Rose and Baby Sarah-Ann, and maybe a tad more Dr Cameron and Tina? This list could go on forever! I even saw another side to the Bishop in this book! An emotional read from the prologue, to the very last page.
As soon as I heard there was going to be a book 4 in the Temptation Series, I immediately yearned to read it! I needed to know what was going on in the Meadowview Amish community, how my favourite characters were doing as well as what was happening to those characters I disliked too. So this book was instantly positioned near the top of my ever lengthening wishlist. To say I am looking forward to reading this book is kind of an understatement!
MY REVIEW
I received an e-copy of this book via Deitre Helvy and her tour company A Leisure Moment free in exchange for my honest review.
The cover of the book fits in nicely with the rest of the series. The female on the front is Rachel Miller, Noah's younger sister. The background of the cover is a field and a bright blue sky. There's a byline on the cover which says, "Growing up Amish is difficult . . . . . but leaving it behind is even harder". So does that byline hint at more problems for newlyweds and new parents Noah and Rose? Or as the book is called "Rachel's Deception" is trouble just beyond that bright blue sky for Rachel Miller? I'm certainly looking forward to finding out!
Would the cover make me pick this book up from a book store shelf? This is a hard one to answer because as soon as I saw the authors name & series name , it would be off the shelf and in my basket on the way to the checkout! However regardless of the author and my prior knowledge of this brilliant series would I pick this one up from a book store shelf? I truthfully think I would, the female on the cover who turns out to be Rachel Miller, her stance and the look on her face make you want to learn more about her and what the look on her face means too.
The book begins with the prologue, which turns out to be a catch up with perhaps the last character I would have thought about. Who is the character I disliked, and mostly didn't care about? Levi Zook, the evil young Amish man who attempted to rape and assault Rose. Levi is serving his 15 year sentence, and needs to serve another 9 years before he will be eligible to apply for parole. Levi is just waking up, he is feeling cold because the guards have forced him and some other inmates to sleep naked. The guards force inmates to regular strip searches, using the nakedness to degrade the inmates. Levi is to an extent a loner, though other inmates seem to revere him and ask his advice and listen to him read his bible. The only person from the Meadowview Amish Community that has interacted with Levi in any way is Bishop Abram Lambright. The Bishop visited Levi to let him know he would never be welcome in the Meadowview community ever again, even when he had completed his prison sentence and the "Englisher's" would say he had paid his penance, Levi would never be welcome. Levi is far from pennant and still blames all his misfortune on Rose. He still hold's a grudge against her and feels he has "unfinished business".
The next character we re-visit is Rachel Miller, she's sneaking out of her Amish home, to go on another night out with some English friends. It's whilst she is out that she is recognized by Rose's brother Justin, despite her wearing English clothes. Clothes is a bit of a theme in this book as Suzanna and Miranda want to open a sewing supplies & dress shop. Will the Amish elders allow such a thing? Well with Rose on their side with a trick or two up her sleeve I'd say they have a great chance. I would think the girls in the Amish community would much rather work in a sewing supplies & dress store than the jobs the young girls usually have such as working at the butcher's or in Rachel's case working at the bird house making workshop. Rachel doesn't mind working, it gets her out of the house she just hates the tedious job she has been given of cutting the wood. Rachel has a lot to think about, her sneaking out at night to party, her sister Sarah who died in the old farmhouse during the tornado, and then she's thinking about Micah Schwartz and Justin Cameron (though she doubts her father would be pleased with either boy she likes). It's whilst she is working at the bird house workshop that Rachel has an accident. This accident alerts Dr Cameron (Rose's father) how young the girls are that are working with dangers machinery etc. Roses's fathers first instinct is to involve the authorities, he has been simmering for a long time and is somewhat eager to take this argument on with the Amish. Rose naturally tries to calm the troubled waters, and her older brother Sam even backs her up. The one with the most surprising opinion turns out to be Noah who is siding with Dr Cameron. Eventually it is agreed that Dr Cameron will speak to the Amish and give them a chance to re-arrange the workforce, before he goes to the authorities.
So there's so much happening in this book that I could go on and on forever! It's really cute to read that Noah and Rose are still as in love with each other after being married a year and having their first child. Though Noah is shunned, Rose still becomes involved in the AMish community and the community members seem to be softening towards her. How can they not when they see little baby Sarah-Ann. They are so happy, Noah is quietly adapting to the fact he is shunned by the Amish, although his friends Matthew and Timothy both speak to him during work jobs that they are all on. It is Rose that is most upset as the weddings of Suzanna & Timothy and the wedding of Miranda and Matthew approach. It seems the Amish are quite happy for Rose to attend the weddings as an "Englisher" but Noah will not be welcome to attend. I love a specific scene where Rose is asking Noah a question she both dreads hearing the answer to yet still needs to ask. Noah is as ever good natured and so loving in his reply to her that he misses some aspects of his Amish life but that he would not swap his life with Rose, Sarah-Ann and he even goes so far as to include Rose's crazy brothers in the bracket that he wouldn't want to lose.
Sam's character grows through the book very well too. He openly admits to being a hands on uncle and being on diaper duty on a regular basis. He is still happy in his relationship with Summer.
I love the fact that Sarah-Ann brings both the Englisher's and the Amish together as neither family can resist a hug and kiss with baby Sarah Anne. In fact even the strong, silent, Bishop has a smile and a loving touch for the cutie that is Sarah-Ann. I foresee this little girl bringing both sides of the communities together and wrapping her father Noah and Uncles Sam & Justin around her little finger! This little one is already a favourite character for me!
I also enjoyed catching up with the relationship between Sam and his girlfriend Summer. I loved the way Summer is described as having strawberry pink hair that mesmerizes baby Sarah-Ann. Sam and Summer really dote on Sarah-Ann. . . could there be something more permanent/an extra level of commitment coming soon for them?
So there's lots of good things happening in this book on our revisit to Meadowview, but. . . yes there had to be a but. . don't forget the Prologue you read at the very beginning of this book. Where we had a catch up with a nasty character Levi Zook, disliked by the Amish and English alike. I can't tell you what happens because I would hate it if someone told me, I will say it's something really big and involves both sides of the community. This part of the book reminded me a little more of the other series Karen Ann Hopkins writes, the Serenity's Plain Secrets Series.
Throughout the book there's also what could be described as a great "love-triangle" going on between Rachel Miller, Micah Schwartz and Justin Cameron. Micah Schwartz was originally promised to court and marry Sarah Miller, and was devastated when she died during the tornado in the last book. Are his feeling genuinely for Rachel or does he just see Sarah Miller when he gazes at her younger sister Rachel? Then the other option is Justin Cameron, Rose's youngest brother. Rachel and Justin both understand losing someone extremely important to them. Justin lost his mum and of course Rachel lost her sister Sarah. The trouble with Justin would be that he is English, would Rachel give up her way of life for him? Could she cope with being shunned like Noah has to? I usually have a favourite who I'd like to "get the girl" when I read a book with such a love triangle. This is hard though, I really like both Justin and Micah, and I honestly am not so sure which one would be the best pairing match for Rachel.
The pace of this book varies, though I have to say it is never too slow. It's kind of switches from which/whose side it is told from. Even the character I disliked Levi Zook, has things told from his point of view, and I enjoyed reading that part too. It sets the scene for what happens much later in the book. Karen is so clever as you become so enveloped in the things going on in Meadowview that you are lulled into things going so well, then wham! she hits you with Levi Zook again! We also see a different side to Noah in this particular part of the book. He is so calm, centered and matter of fact on what has to be done that he shocks Rose's youngest brother Justin when he goes ahead and carries out the action with no hesitation. I was like "Oh, Noah"! and holding my breath, and gasping all at the same time whilst reading!
So did I enjoy this book? To say I loved it, well that would be an understatement. I truly adore this series and it's characters!
Would I recommend this book? Yes! If you have read the other books in this series then this is a must read. If however you haven't read the series, where have you been, you must, no, need to read this fantastic series of books. I'll be honest I aren't a big contemporary, or romance fan but these books are exceptional. Plus you also learn about a highly fascinating culture during the characters journeys in this book series. I also love Karen Ann Hopkins other series Serenity's Plain Secrets. In fact I'd recommend Karen Ann Hopkins as an author and would want to check out any book written by her really.
Would I want to read more of this series? Yes, yes please? When can I have it to read? I have a weakness when it comes to this series, it really is addictive, but hey! being addicted to a books/fictional characters is ok right?
Would I read other titles by Karen Ann Hopkins? Yes, I already have done this with Karen's other fantastic series Serenity's Plain Secrets, I highly recommend that one too. I do also intend to begin reading Karen's Wings Of War Series soon too.
FINAL SUM UP
I really cannot shout out loud enough or find the correct words to describe well enough, how much I loved this book. I really hope (fingers crossed) that we have more to come in the Temptation Series. I want to read more about some of the other Amish characters and events such as Suzanna and Timothy's wedding, then there's Rachel's decision(hey that could be the next book! only joking Karen!) between Micah and Justin. Then there's Summer and Sam's relationship and where that may go. I'm becoming a very greedy reader I want more Noah, Rose and Baby Sarah-Ann, and maybe a tad more Dr Cameron and Tina? This list could go on forever! I even saw another side to the Bishop in this book! An emotional read from the prologue, to the very last page.
June 9, 2015
This review can also be found on A Thousand Lives Lived, check it out for more reviews!
*3.5 star rating*
Well, I must say that it's been a serious knack of a while since I've read a book like this. Okay, it's been a long time, and since the third book in the Temptation series, I haven't read a book dealt with Amish people and romance like this. Rachel's Deception was a fresh wave of romance, loss and trying to hide from inequality. Everyone would love this, fans of the previous novels or not. Though... you'll need to read the others before this one.
My love for this series actually first began when I discovered the initial start to this series, Temptation, which truly speaks of its title. It began off with Noah and Rose's legacy, one that even is spoken about by the newer generation of characters in this novel, which is like Romeo and Juliet, though their love certainly is forbidden to some extent by some individuals. It's real, raw, and I can imagine this story being told on the news or like a legend, as I usually say during each and every single one of my reviews of any book from this series. Why do I find myself repeating some of the same phrases and terms over and over again? Because it sticks to the same path and ratio, and I just can't get enough. Don't take my 3.5 star rating as something cheap and disliking. It was pretty fab, if you ask me.
3.5 stars is great, awesome. I'm proud for getting through this novel in a matter of hours, also for the fact that I forgot about this blog tour until the last minute. But I knew that I would enjoy it anyways and would absolutely get to it... eventually. Me having an ebook copy isn't as intimidating as having a physical copy would provide me with. The feelings are real and strange, but that's the way my reading habits work, people. What did Karen Ann Hopkins provide readers with from the matter of the different protagonists and perspectives given? She gave us feelings, a new view on secretive lives.
This takes place some time into the future from where the last book left readers off with. Rose and Noah's daughter, Sarah Ann, is SO CUTE and she's growing up little by little. Rose is beginning to handle the madness of being a mother more and more, and she and Noah are willing to take any risks in order to protect their family and enhance their love relationship. What is a little cliché is that now, this is mostly taken place in the perspective of Justin and Rachel, Rose's brother and Noah's little sister. This is their love story.
I bet you're all wondering if something like this would work out. But yet again, you must keep in mind that this is fiction, and from the looks of it, anything is almost possible. This is the start of me listing the negative ideas that I saw while reading. THIS was cheesy. I expected things to go the way they did, and don't you all think it's a little absurd for two love interests to both be in relation of our star main characters from the rest of the series? I understand if it was taken place in the POV of one sibling... but both? Mashed-up together? That could've definitely been played with a little better, just saying.
I believe in love at first sight. The ultimate famous Shakespearean couple taught us all about that and the misfortunes that it can lead to. Though, Hopkins' romance here wasn't believable as I hoped it would be as were the characters. Yes, the purpose and prose of this novel is to convince readers that one can be a rebel and live life differently than most individuals (as both Rachel and Rose did), though I feel like this is a whole new spinoff when it wasn't needed. What're readers supposed to do or commence when something new and broad is brought into their minds again when the subject and doors were already closed? What are we supposed to do? Fight and try to read it. Never mind what I just said, if you're here for the positive side of the story, then you should actually stay tuned since I'm not the chick who says only disses and walks away with a smile upon her cheeks.
This was quick, sharp and an easy read. It is chick-lit, if you ask me. There are flirtsy (yep, I made that word up) points of the story that were pretty cute, and they all shaped the plot and made it 10x more interesting and intriguing. It's all about the romance, nothing else, nada. If you're not in for a fluffy contemporary read incorporated with a few droplets of gunshots, then this isn't for you. But yet again, you wouldn't be captivated to this review if you weren't. I know you're all interested, and I recommend that you continue to be and just start off with this series if you haven't had already! The ships are real, people.
I'm trying to stop with the rhetorical questions, I really am, but here's my last one: where does the reader go from here? To the bookstore, onto Amazon, to grab the whole series. This can definitely become something that you'll binge read in a matter of hours (all together) and fall in love. It'll be so much better if you do it that way, since there's no need for crazy reviews and major spoiler summaries! At least, that's what I would do, and I needed to recap everything for myself since I couldn't even get myself to remember who Justin was, or who died previously.
Karen Ann Hopkins has done it again! Here you have a fourth fascinating story that has snippets of realism, chick-lit and pure fiction all mixed up together with a dash of strawberry ice cream. It's sweet, but I was definitely able to shed a few tears and really feel sorrow and sympathy for the characters. It's hard not to when you feel like the whole story is happening right before your hands and in front of you!
*3.5 star rating*
Well, I must say that it's been a serious knack of a while since I've read a book like this. Okay, it's been a long time, and since the third book in the Temptation series, I haven't read a book dealt with Amish people and romance like this. Rachel's Deception was a fresh wave of romance, loss and trying to hide from inequality. Everyone would love this, fans of the previous novels or not. Though... you'll need to read the others before this one.
My love for this series actually first began when I discovered the initial start to this series, Temptation, which truly speaks of its title. It began off with Noah and Rose's legacy, one that even is spoken about by the newer generation of characters in this novel, which is like Romeo and Juliet, though their love certainly is forbidden to some extent by some individuals. It's real, raw, and I can imagine this story being told on the news or like a legend, as I usually say during each and every single one of my reviews of any book from this series. Why do I find myself repeating some of the same phrases and terms over and over again? Because it sticks to the same path and ratio, and I just can't get enough. Don't take my 3.5 star rating as something cheap and disliking. It was pretty fab, if you ask me.
3.5 stars is great, awesome. I'm proud for getting through this novel in a matter of hours, also for the fact that I forgot about this blog tour until the last minute. But I knew that I would enjoy it anyways and would absolutely get to it... eventually. Me having an ebook copy isn't as intimidating as having a physical copy would provide me with. The feelings are real and strange, but that's the way my reading habits work, people. What did Karen Ann Hopkins provide readers with from the matter of the different protagonists and perspectives given? She gave us feelings, a new view on secretive lives.
This takes place some time into the future from where the last book left readers off with. Rose and Noah's daughter, Sarah Ann, is SO CUTE and she's growing up little by little. Rose is beginning to handle the madness of being a mother more and more, and she and Noah are willing to take any risks in order to protect their family and enhance their love relationship. What is a little cliché is that now, this is mostly taken place in the perspective of Justin and Rachel, Rose's brother and Noah's little sister. This is their love story.
I bet you're all wondering if something like this would work out. But yet again, you must keep in mind that this is fiction, and from the looks of it, anything is almost possible. This is the start of me listing the negative ideas that I saw while reading. THIS was cheesy. I expected things to go the way they did, and don't you all think it's a little absurd for two love interests to both be in relation of our star main characters from the rest of the series? I understand if it was taken place in the POV of one sibling... but both? Mashed-up together? That could've definitely been played with a little better, just saying.
I believe in love at first sight. The ultimate famous Shakespearean couple taught us all about that and the misfortunes that it can lead to. Though, Hopkins' romance here wasn't believable as I hoped it would be as were the characters. Yes, the purpose and prose of this novel is to convince readers that one can be a rebel and live life differently than most individuals (as both Rachel and Rose did), though I feel like this is a whole new spinoff when it wasn't needed. What're readers supposed to do or commence when something new and broad is brought into their minds again when the subject and doors were already closed? What are we supposed to do? Fight and try to read it. Never mind what I just said, if you're here for the positive side of the story, then you should actually stay tuned since I'm not the chick who says only disses and walks away with a smile upon her cheeks.
This was quick, sharp and an easy read. It is chick-lit, if you ask me. There are flirtsy (yep, I made that word up) points of the story that were pretty cute, and they all shaped the plot and made it 10x more interesting and intriguing. It's all about the romance, nothing else, nada. If you're not in for a fluffy contemporary read incorporated with a few droplets of gunshots, then this isn't for you. But yet again, you wouldn't be captivated to this review if you weren't. I know you're all interested, and I recommend that you continue to be and just start off with this series if you haven't had already! The ships are real, people.
I'm trying to stop with the rhetorical questions, I really am, but here's my last one: where does the reader go from here? To the bookstore, onto Amazon, to grab the whole series. This can definitely become something that you'll binge read in a matter of hours (all together) and fall in love. It'll be so much better if you do it that way, since there's no need for crazy reviews and major spoiler summaries! At least, that's what I would do, and I needed to recap everything for myself since I couldn't even get myself to remember who Justin was, or who died previously.
Karen Ann Hopkins has done it again! Here you have a fourth fascinating story that has snippets of realism, chick-lit and pure fiction all mixed up together with a dash of strawberry ice cream. It's sweet, but I was definitely able to shed a few tears and really feel sorrow and sympathy for the characters. It's hard not to when you feel like the whole story is happening right before your hands and in front of you!
May 19, 2015
Lindy's Thoughts:
I have been following the Temptation Series from the very beginning! This series is so unique, and different from anything else that I have read, and I love it! Learning about different cultures has always been a passion of mine, and the Amish culture is extremely fascinating. Ms. Hopkins creates an authentic experience for the reader, as we are immersed in a world were different societal views, norms, rules, and ways of doing things is vastly different from our own.
In Rachel's Deception, this addictive saga continues. These stories should be read in order, as the timeline is linear, and won't make sense if you read them out of order. Rachel's Deception, focuses on 16 year old Rachel Miller (Noah's sister). Rachel is a loner, has been stuck in a deep depression, and riddled with feelings of guilt ever since her sweet and "perfect" older sister Sarah died. She is strong willed, and has a rebellious nature. Rachel begins sneaking out of the house and hanging with a troublesome "English Crowd" who frequents bars, gets drunk, and are sexually promiscuous."
As the story goes along, we get three different perspectives; Rachel, Rose, and Justin. Rose continues to tell us her and Noah's story (which were the main characters from all of the previous books in the series.) However, now we have Rachel and Justin (Rose's younger brother,) coming to the forefront as main characters in this segment. Rachel and Justin develop feeling towards one another, which are strictly forbidden in the Amish world (due to the fact that Justin is "English" not Amish.) Simultaneously, Rachel develops feelings for Micah, her dead sister Sarah's ex-fiancee. As you can see, we have the beginning of a love triangle here.
Rachel's Deception flowed at a slow but steady pace. The story was more character driven, then plot driven, which caused it to slow down until the very end. Ms. Hopkins set a solid foundation for more books in the series, and I am looking forward to the plot thickening. Her main characters are so well fleshed out, that it's as if they are walking off of the page and speaking to the reader directly. Relationships are being developed and strengthened in this segment between lovers, friends, and family members. We learn a lot about the Amish community, as well as individual characters struggles; with a focus on Rachel. I can't wait to read the next book in this ever evolving series!
My Rating:
Rachel's Deception was another great addition to the Temptation Series. Although the pacing was slow, it was steady, and picked up at the end with plot twists, suspense, and even danger! If you enjoy learning about different cultures and customs, along with sweet romance, and suspense; you must check out the Temptation series. I give, Rachel's Deception, by Karen Ann Hopkins, 4 Emotional Darkness, Love Triangle, Suspense Filled Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
I have been following the Temptation Series from the very beginning! This series is so unique, and different from anything else that I have read, and I love it! Learning about different cultures has always been a passion of mine, and the Amish culture is extremely fascinating. Ms. Hopkins creates an authentic experience for the reader, as we are immersed in a world were different societal views, norms, rules, and ways of doing things is vastly different from our own.
In Rachel's Deception, this addictive saga continues. These stories should be read in order, as the timeline is linear, and won't make sense if you read them out of order. Rachel's Deception, focuses on 16 year old Rachel Miller (Noah's sister). Rachel is a loner, has been stuck in a deep depression, and riddled with feelings of guilt ever since her sweet and "perfect" older sister Sarah died. She is strong willed, and has a rebellious nature. Rachel begins sneaking out of the house and hanging with a troublesome "English Crowd" who frequents bars, gets drunk, and are sexually promiscuous."
As the story goes along, we get three different perspectives; Rachel, Rose, and Justin. Rose continues to tell us her and Noah's story (which were the main characters from all of the previous books in the series.) However, now we have Rachel and Justin (Rose's younger brother,) coming to the forefront as main characters in this segment. Rachel and Justin develop feeling towards one another, which are strictly forbidden in the Amish world (due to the fact that Justin is "English" not Amish.) Simultaneously, Rachel develops feelings for Micah, her dead sister Sarah's ex-fiancee. As you can see, we have the beginning of a love triangle here.
Rachel's Deception flowed at a slow but steady pace. The story was more character driven, then plot driven, which caused it to slow down until the very end. Ms. Hopkins set a solid foundation for more books in the series, and I am looking forward to the plot thickening. Her main characters are so well fleshed out, that it's as if they are walking off of the page and speaking to the reader directly. Relationships are being developed and strengthened in this segment between lovers, friends, and family members. We learn a lot about the Amish community, as well as individual characters struggles; with a focus on Rachel. I can't wait to read the next book in this ever evolving series!
My Rating:
Rachel's Deception was another great addition to the Temptation Series. Although the pacing was slow, it was steady, and picked up at the end with plot twists, suspense, and even danger! If you enjoy learning about different cultures and customs, along with sweet romance, and suspense; you must check out the Temptation series. I give, Rachel's Deception, by Karen Ann Hopkins, 4 Emotional Darkness, Love Triangle, Suspense Filled Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
May 25, 2015
Oh, how I missed Rose and Noah! I thought that I was ok with closing the book (haha, no pun intended) on Rose and Noah’s story but I didn’t realize how much I wanted to know how they were doing until I opened Rachel’s Deception! Not only do we get to see them again, but all of the beloved (and not so loved) characters of the previous books.
I was thrilled to see that even though this book is about Rachel, there is again multiple points of views including Rose and Justin as well. Rachel always seemed a bit surly in the previous books, but I didn’t know too much about her that I could remember, so I was really intrigued to see where her story was going, especially with the recent death of her sister. I don’t entirely know how I feel about her though, she’s a really hard character to get attached to but by the end of the book I was certainly rooting for her well being. Mostly I was just incredibly sad for her because it’s obvious she is in tremendous emotional pain. Justin, I always liked, and we got a much better insight to him in this book. Rose is the same ole lovable character from the previous books as well. Noah surprised me because he seemed to really grow quite a bit since Forever, although we didn’t see a lot of him. Suzanna, Miranda, and Summer, of course, make huge appearances and I adore the three of those girls so much. I loved that Rose still has strong friendships with the Amish girls, despite not being a part of the community any longer.
I couldn’t put this down once I started. There was so much going on with everybody that I refused to stop reading until I had finished! Rachel’s conflicting feelings between Micah and Justin, Rose and the girls opening up the dress shop, the creepy appearance from Levi’s point of view at the start of the book … It was very fast paced, with zero lulls in the story. It’s hard for me to write this review because if you haven’t read it yet, there is a lot going on that I don’t want to spoil but rest assured, there is a lot of plot, character development and growth, and feelings!!
Rachel’s Deception quite honestly broke my heart. I won’t spoil the ending for anyone, but if you have read it (or when you do) you will know exactly what I mean. I was so shocked by the events that unfolded that I actually read backward, thinking that I might have misread something. It was an incredibly sad turn of events. Despite that, I think that this has taken the place of my favorite of the series and I am SO excited to see that the ending seems like there is going to be another book in the series!
If you haven’t read this series yet, I highly recommend it. Karen Ann Hopkins is incredibly knowledgeable with Amish culture and customs and it shows through in her stories. The Temptation series is heartwarming, heartbreaking and has so many twists and unexpected turns and Rachel’s Deception delivered all of that and more!
I was thrilled to see that even though this book is about Rachel, there is again multiple points of views including Rose and Justin as well. Rachel always seemed a bit surly in the previous books, but I didn’t know too much about her that I could remember, so I was really intrigued to see where her story was going, especially with the recent death of her sister. I don’t entirely know how I feel about her though, she’s a really hard character to get attached to but by the end of the book I was certainly rooting for her well being. Mostly I was just incredibly sad for her because it’s obvious she is in tremendous emotional pain. Justin, I always liked, and we got a much better insight to him in this book. Rose is the same ole lovable character from the previous books as well. Noah surprised me because he seemed to really grow quite a bit since Forever, although we didn’t see a lot of him. Suzanna, Miranda, and Summer, of course, make huge appearances and I adore the three of those girls so much. I loved that Rose still has strong friendships with the Amish girls, despite not being a part of the community any longer.
I couldn’t put this down once I started. There was so much going on with everybody that I refused to stop reading until I had finished! Rachel’s conflicting feelings between Micah and Justin, Rose and the girls opening up the dress shop, the creepy appearance from Levi’s point of view at the start of the book … It was very fast paced, with zero lulls in the story. It’s hard for me to write this review because if you haven’t read it yet, there is a lot going on that I don’t want to spoil but rest assured, there is a lot of plot, character development and growth, and feelings!!
Rachel’s Deception quite honestly broke my heart. I won’t spoil the ending for anyone, but if you have read it (or when you do) you will know exactly what I mean. I was so shocked by the events that unfolded that I actually read backward, thinking that I might have misread something. It was an incredibly sad turn of events. Despite that, I think that this has taken the place of my favorite of the series and I am SO excited to see that the ending seems like there is going to be another book in the series!
If you haven’t read this series yet, I highly recommend it. Karen Ann Hopkins is incredibly knowledgeable with Amish culture and customs and it shows through in her stories. The Temptation series is heartwarming, heartbreaking and has so many twists and unexpected turns and Rachel’s Deception delivered all of that and more!
May 19, 2015
Ro's Take on this Journey:
Rachel's Deception, by Karen Ann Hopkins, is the continuing Amish Saga, in the Temptation Series, #4. In Rachel's Deception, we get the story of a tormented young girl, Rachel, the younger sister of Noah. Rachel has demons that haunt her every thought, to the point that she must anesthetize herself to drown out her night terrors. She tries to live in a deluge of liquor, rebelliousness, and danger. She doesn't ever worry enough to stop the quandaries she puts herself into, until she is up against the wall.
Rachel has survived the tornado that took the life of her older sister, Sarah. Though they were each other's playmates, since a young age, there was an abundance of hostility, envy, and jealousy on Rachel's behalf. Rachel is the complete opposite of her sweet, unassuming deceased sister, Sarah. Rachel is a loner, misunderstood, and filled with guilt and regret. In this segment, Rachel finds that she has feelings for Micah, Sarah's Amish ex-boyfriend who likes her but is naive to her behavior, and Justin, Rose's younger English brother, who knows her secrets first hand. Both these young men can cause an uproar in the Meadowview Community if Rachel's scandalous behavior is revealed and she makes the wrong choices.
This segment also brings to light danger from the past that catches up with Rose and her family, shunning, principals broken, and changing times. The elders must rethink their ways and come to terms with the new age children that are growing up, in order to try to keep them from leaving the Amish community for a different way of life. There are so many insightful lessons to be learned from Ms. Hopkins Saga. She is a brilliant writer and her characters are well rounded. Each and every one of them come to life on the printed page. Both primary and secondary characters have a story to tell, and the reader will ultimately connect with each and every one of them on some level or another.
The Temptation series has been a favorite of mine, and I know the readers would be remised if they didn't get to be a part of this great journey. The reader will experience the rigid ways of the elders, the staunch attitudes of the unyielding, the tenderness of the compassionate, the heartbreaking sorrow of the broken, and the full circle life lessons of the Amish's world; which can bring their community together or rip them apart in this wonderful Saga.
My Rating:
I give, Rachel's Deception, by Karen Ann Hopkins, 4 Heart Wrenching, Terrifying, Life Changing, Tender, Loving Stars!
Rachel's Deception, by Karen Ann Hopkins, is the continuing Amish Saga, in the Temptation Series, #4. In Rachel's Deception, we get the story of a tormented young girl, Rachel, the younger sister of Noah. Rachel has demons that haunt her every thought, to the point that she must anesthetize herself to drown out her night terrors. She tries to live in a deluge of liquor, rebelliousness, and danger. She doesn't ever worry enough to stop the quandaries she puts herself into, until she is up against the wall.
Rachel has survived the tornado that took the life of her older sister, Sarah. Though they were each other's playmates, since a young age, there was an abundance of hostility, envy, and jealousy on Rachel's behalf. Rachel is the complete opposite of her sweet, unassuming deceased sister, Sarah. Rachel is a loner, misunderstood, and filled with guilt and regret. In this segment, Rachel finds that she has feelings for Micah, Sarah's Amish ex-boyfriend who likes her but is naive to her behavior, and Justin, Rose's younger English brother, who knows her secrets first hand. Both these young men can cause an uproar in the Meadowview Community if Rachel's scandalous behavior is revealed and she makes the wrong choices.
This segment also brings to light danger from the past that catches up with Rose and her family, shunning, principals broken, and changing times. The elders must rethink their ways and come to terms with the new age children that are growing up, in order to try to keep them from leaving the Amish community for a different way of life. There are so many insightful lessons to be learned from Ms. Hopkins Saga. She is a brilliant writer and her characters are well rounded. Each and every one of them come to life on the printed page. Both primary and secondary characters have a story to tell, and the reader will ultimately connect with each and every one of them on some level or another.
The Temptation series has been a favorite of mine, and I know the readers would be remised if they didn't get to be a part of this great journey. The reader will experience the rigid ways of the elders, the staunch attitudes of the unyielding, the tenderness of the compassionate, the heartbreaking sorrow of the broken, and the full circle life lessons of the Amish's world; which can bring their community together or rip them apart in this wonderful Saga.
My Rating:
I give, Rachel's Deception, by Karen Ann Hopkins, 4 Heart Wrenching, Terrifying, Life Changing, Tender, Loving Stars!
August 25, 2015
Read more reviews here
I have reviewed all three of the first books in the series and I fell in love with everything. The writing, the Amish lifestyle, the storyline and the action that came with and I thought that the 3rd book in the series would be the last one and I got sad knowing there was no more of Rose and Noah's story. There was so much I wanted to know yet. I wished for just a little bit more of there life and when Karen announced that there would be another book I fangirled a little bit.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy of "Rachel's Deception." Even though the fourth one was more about Noah's sister Rachel and Roses sister Justin, I sill couldn't wait.
I started this book as soon as it came in the mail and if I'm being honest, I felt like the beginning went a little slow. For some reason I couldn't stay in the story and my mind wondered to other things and I started putting it down and reading something else. After finishing another series I started off where I left off and finished the last half of the book.
Maybe I was out of my book slump but the second half was definitely more intriguing and help my attention a lot more. So if there's more of you out there thinking that you just cant get through the book, there hope! I wanted to read more and more. There was more action and I loved every part. I was sitting on the edge of my seat biting my nails with suspense.
If you loved the first 3 books in the series. You wont be disappointed with this one. We have a different view on different characters and its a nice change. I'm just wondering...... Will there be another one?
I have reviewed all three of the first books in the series and I fell in love with everything. The writing, the Amish lifestyle, the storyline and the action that came with and I thought that the 3rd book in the series would be the last one and I got sad knowing there was no more of Rose and Noah's story. There was so much I wanted to know yet. I wished for just a little bit more of there life and when Karen announced that there would be another book I fangirled a little bit.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy of "Rachel's Deception." Even though the fourth one was more about Noah's sister Rachel and Roses sister Justin, I sill couldn't wait.
I started this book as soon as it came in the mail and if I'm being honest, I felt like the beginning went a little slow. For some reason I couldn't stay in the story and my mind wondered to other things and I started putting it down and reading something else. After finishing another series I started off where I left off and finished the last half of the book.
Maybe I was out of my book slump but the second half was definitely more intriguing and help my attention a lot more. So if there's more of you out there thinking that you just cant get through the book, there hope! I wanted to read more and more. There was more action and I loved every part. I was sitting on the edge of my seat biting my nails with suspense.
If you loved the first 3 books in the series. You wont be disappointed with this one. We have a different view on different characters and its a nice change. I'm just wondering...... Will there be another one?
June 1, 2015
When I found out there was going to be another book in this series I literally squealed out loud. I just love this series and the characters.
From the first page I was swept away, it was so wonderful jumping back into the Amish community. This story follows Rachel, Noah's little sister. She's hit a rebellious stage and starts sneaking out with some English friends and partying till all hours of the morning.
If you've read the other books in the series, you'll know that it's about Rose and Noah's story. I love that we still get to hear from Rose and know how they're going and what they're doing now.
I highly recommend this series if you're looking for something new and exciting, with lots of drama and heartache.
From the first page I was swept away, it was so wonderful jumping back into the Amish community. This story follows Rachel, Noah's little sister. She's hit a rebellious stage and starts sneaking out with some English friends and partying till all hours of the morning.
If you've read the other books in the series, you'll know that it's about Rose and Noah's story. I love that we still get to hear from Rose and know how they're going and what they're doing now.
I highly recommend this series if you're looking for something new and exciting, with lots of drama and heartache.
April 22, 2015
Once again, I was swept up and taken in my the story plot........line after line , I felt myself so drawn in at times that I could vividly see the story play out in front of me! Entertaining and with experiences so true to life. I have to say Karen Hopkins is on the cutting edge and leading the way in realistic writings involving the Amish communities. Again, I find myself saying: " I can hardly wait for the next book"!
October 12, 2022
kind of a cliffhanger
Really liked this series- read all four in one week. This author really knows how to develop characters and draws you into their lives. I’m anxious for the next book, Journey, but see that it’s release is delayed. My only complaint is that there are many English errors in type with repetitious sentences, wrong choice in spelling, and lack of punctuation. Better editing is needed.
Really liked this series- read all four in one week. This author really knows how to develop characters and draws you into their lives. I’m anxious for the next book, Journey, but see that it’s release is delayed. My only complaint is that there are many English errors in type with repetitious sentences, wrong choice in spelling, and lack of punctuation. Better editing is needed.
July 24, 2018
Deception
I chose this book Because I had read the one's before this one. I would recommend this book to my granddaughters. With the characters so young I did have to pretend that they were older because of my age. I think that girls between the ages of 15 and 19 would enjoy these books. The stories were good and I enjoyed them.
I chose this book Because I had read the one's before this one. I would recommend this book to my granddaughters. With the characters so young I did have to pretend that they were older because of my age. I think that girls between the ages of 15 and 19 would enjoy these books. The stories were good and I enjoyed them.
May 23, 2017
Still good to read.
Intriguing, holds your attention, the subject matter is is pretty well thought out. The ending leaves room for speculation. I've never seen a Mustang with back doors through?😊
Intriguing, holds your attention, the subject matter is is pretty well thought out. The ending leaves room for speculation. I've never seen a Mustang with back doors through?😊
February 13, 2021
Needing more
I absolutely love this series. There are not many books that make me emotional and cry. When I'm reading these I feel as like I'm actually there watching what is going on. This series has pulled me in craving more.
I absolutely love this series. There are not many books that make me emotional and cry. When I'm reading these I feel as like I'm actually there watching what is going on. This series has pulled me in craving more.
October 5, 2017
Decepection
I loved this series ,don't know if I can wait til next year for the conclusion.
But I will try
I loved this series ,don't know if I can wait til next year for the conclusion.
But I will try
July 23, 2018
Another great one by karen
Another great page Turner keeps you reading long into the night. Cant wait til the next one is available .I will definitely be watching for it
Another great page Turner keeps you reading long into the night. Cant wait til the next one is available .I will definitely be watching for it
July 1, 2021
Great book but there was so many typos
May 26, 2015
*3.5 Rating
Review Posted on Reading Lark 5/26/15: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2015/...
I have been a huge fan of Rose and Noah since the very beginning. I assumed that their story ended with Forever, but I was ecstatic to see a fourth novel in this series pop up. In spite of this one being called Rachel's Deception, I held out hope that there would be plenty of Rose and Noah in this one. I wasn't disappointed on that front.
There will be spoilers for the previous novels in this review so tread with caution. It's impossible to talk about this one without referencing the previous novels in the series.
Rachel, Noah's younger sister, is a bit of a wild child with a stubborn streak that tends to lead her to bad choices. She is haunted by Sarah's death and finds that alcohol is the only way to keep the nightmares at bay. She befriends some English girls who are all too willing to help Rachel lose herself in booze. These friendships are toxic and don't help Rachel move beyond her grief. To make matters worse, Rachel's father is being even more strict than usual as he cannot stand the thought of losing another child after Noah's shunning. Rachel yearns to be free, but she can't let go of her Amish roots. She will quickly find herself torn between freedom and her culture.
While I liked Rachel and found her story to be heartbreaking and memorable, I felt like this one wasn't truly about her. It felt like 50% of the novel was Noah and Rose. Don't get me wrong - I loved that - but it felt unfair to Rachel. She kept getting pushed to the side to focus on the dress shop or some other issue. In fact, Rose is even a narrator of several chapters. I also wasn't drawn into Rachel's romance dilemma. The compulsion to be with Justin felt a little like recycled material and I kept hoping she wouldn't go down that path, but find a way to forge her own. Justin is a great guy, but I didn't want a Noah and Rose drama fest repeat.
The one aspect of the novel I loved (aside from seeing old friends) was the dress shop venture. The shop allows the female characters to forge stronger bonds and friendships. It was also interesting to watch the girls challenge gender roles and societal structures within the Amish community.
This one is difficult for me to rate because I loved some aspects, but found others to be lacking. The Levi portion didn't seem to be a driving factor in the story even though it features prominently in the prologue and will cause some problems toward the end; it is largely ignored for the bulk of the novel. In addition, I didn't feel that either of Rachel's romantic choices are fully developed. The novel seemed too short to truly allow readers to ship one guy over another. Lastly, the ending seemed anti-climatic and rushed. Rachel seemingly has made her choice, but it didn't feel final nor was there a lot of rationale behind it.
Overall, I felt like this novel served as a way to show fans what married life was like for Rose and Noah as they raised their daughter, Sarah Ann. I loved seeing that these two were still very much in love. There is something special about their connection that transcends the page.
One Last Gripe: The established romances blossom in this one while the new ones fall flat.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: Spending time with Rose and Noah
First Sentence: I paused on the staircase to listen once more.
Favorite Character: Rose
Least Favorite Character: Rachel's drinking buddies
Review Posted on Reading Lark 5/26/15: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2015/...
I have been a huge fan of Rose and Noah since the very beginning. I assumed that their story ended with Forever, but I was ecstatic to see a fourth novel in this series pop up. In spite of this one being called Rachel's Deception, I held out hope that there would be plenty of Rose and Noah in this one. I wasn't disappointed on that front.
There will be spoilers for the previous novels in this review so tread with caution. It's impossible to talk about this one without referencing the previous novels in the series.
Rachel, Noah's younger sister, is a bit of a wild child with a stubborn streak that tends to lead her to bad choices. She is haunted by Sarah's death and finds that alcohol is the only way to keep the nightmares at bay. She befriends some English girls who are all too willing to help Rachel lose herself in booze. These friendships are toxic and don't help Rachel move beyond her grief. To make matters worse, Rachel's father is being even more strict than usual as he cannot stand the thought of losing another child after Noah's shunning. Rachel yearns to be free, but she can't let go of her Amish roots. She will quickly find herself torn between freedom and her culture.
While I liked Rachel and found her story to be heartbreaking and memorable, I felt like this one wasn't truly about her. It felt like 50% of the novel was Noah and Rose. Don't get me wrong - I loved that - but it felt unfair to Rachel. She kept getting pushed to the side to focus on the dress shop or some other issue. In fact, Rose is even a narrator of several chapters. I also wasn't drawn into Rachel's romance dilemma. The compulsion to be with Justin felt a little like recycled material and I kept hoping she wouldn't go down that path, but find a way to forge her own. Justin is a great guy, but I didn't want a Noah and Rose drama fest repeat.
The one aspect of the novel I loved (aside from seeing old friends) was the dress shop venture. The shop allows the female characters to forge stronger bonds and friendships. It was also interesting to watch the girls challenge gender roles and societal structures within the Amish community.
This one is difficult for me to rate because I loved some aspects, but found others to be lacking. The Levi portion didn't seem to be a driving factor in the story even though it features prominently in the prologue and will cause some problems toward the end; it is largely ignored for the bulk of the novel. In addition, I didn't feel that either of Rachel's romantic choices are fully developed. The novel seemed too short to truly allow readers to ship one guy over another. Lastly, the ending seemed anti-climatic and rushed. Rachel seemingly has made her choice, but it didn't feel final nor was there a lot of rationale behind it.
Overall, I felt like this novel served as a way to show fans what married life was like for Rose and Noah as they raised their daughter, Sarah Ann. I loved seeing that these two were still very much in love. There is something special about their connection that transcends the page.
One Last Gripe: The established romances blossom in this one while the new ones fall flat.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: Spending time with Rose and Noah
First Sentence: I paused on the staircase to listen once more.
Favorite Character: Rose
Least Favorite Character: Rachel's drinking buddies
May 28, 2015
Rating 4.5 of 5
I'm so happy to have the opportunity to revisit the characters of the Temptation series and the community of Meadowview. Although I was satisfied with the final book, Forever, of the then trilogy, I was saddened to be leaving the characters behind. So I was thrilled when I learned that the series would continue and this time the main focus was on Noah's younger sister, Rachel.
Like the other books in the series, Rachel's Deception is told from alternating perspectives: Rachel Rose, and Rose's younger brother, Justin. Since the book is titled Rachel's Deception, I was surprised by how much of the story was told from Rose's perspective. There may have been equal parts, but I wanted more from Rachel's point of view. She had a lot of thoughts and conflicts that she was dealing with (or not dealing with) and I would have liked to know more of her inner turmoil. (I know that's terrible that I wanted to read more about her pain.) But I did enjoy Rose's storyline and the interactions with her friends in the Amish community and it's connection to the kind of future that Rachel would likely end up having.
What I found most interesting about Rachel was how she was an introvert living in among the Amish where so much of her every day life is about community and interaction. It's no wonder that she is having a difficult time when she is content with singular activities and solitary living. Her community expects and even demands everything except that way of life. So it was interesting when a friendship develops with Justin who is similar to her in many ways and understanding how different they are because he can be the introvert that he is without fear of punishment, obligation, or guilt.
I enjoyed the many characters in the book. I loved the married, motherly Rose. She is just as bossy and as opinionated as ever, but there is a maturity to her too. There is Justin - the younger brother who seems wiser beyond his years, and Micah - the sweet Amish boy who formerly courted Rachel's sister, Sarah. And then there's Sam - Rose's impulsive, overprotective older brother. He really caught my attention in this book with his interactions with Rose and Noah and his relationship with Summer. I would LOVE to read a Sam and Summer book.
I am continuously impressed with the characters and stories Karen Ann Hopkins gives her readers and Rachel's Deception is no exception. Each story is a page turner and while they are very satisfying, I'm always left wanting more. (I'm greedy like that.) The people of Meadowview went through a lot in Rachel's Deception and I hope that their saga will continue with more books in this series.
I'm so happy to have the opportunity to revisit the characters of the Temptation series and the community of Meadowview. Although I was satisfied with the final book, Forever, of the then trilogy, I was saddened to be leaving the characters behind. So I was thrilled when I learned that the series would continue and this time the main focus was on Noah's younger sister, Rachel.
Like the other books in the series, Rachel's Deception is told from alternating perspectives: Rachel Rose, and Rose's younger brother, Justin. Since the book is titled Rachel's Deception, I was surprised by how much of the story was told from Rose's perspective. There may have been equal parts, but I wanted more from Rachel's point of view. She had a lot of thoughts and conflicts that she was dealing with (or not dealing with) and I would have liked to know more of her inner turmoil. (I know that's terrible that I wanted to read more about her pain.) But I did enjoy Rose's storyline and the interactions with her friends in the Amish community and it's connection to the kind of future that Rachel would likely end up having.
What I found most interesting about Rachel was how she was an introvert living in among the Amish where so much of her every day life is about community and interaction. It's no wonder that she is having a difficult time when she is content with singular activities and solitary living. Her community expects and even demands everything except that way of life. So it was interesting when a friendship develops with Justin who is similar to her in many ways and understanding how different they are because he can be the introvert that he is without fear of punishment, obligation, or guilt.
I enjoyed the many characters in the book. I loved the married, motherly Rose. She is just as bossy and as opinionated as ever, but there is a maturity to her too. There is Justin - the younger brother who seems wiser beyond his years, and Micah - the sweet Amish boy who formerly courted Rachel's sister, Sarah. And then there's Sam - Rose's impulsive, overprotective older brother. He really caught my attention in this book with his interactions with Rose and Noah and his relationship with Summer. I would LOVE to read a Sam and Summer book.
I am continuously impressed with the characters and stories Karen Ann Hopkins gives her readers and Rachel's Deception is no exception. Each story is a page turner and while they are very satisfying, I'm always left wanting more. (I'm greedy like that.) The people of Meadowview went through a lot in Rachel's Deception and I hope that their saga will continue with more books in this series.
June 15, 2015
Anyone who reads my reviews knows how much I hate romance novels. I can barely stand the side romances in most YA novels period. But, the Temptation series has always drawn me in. Perhaps it's the forbidden love aspect, or the Amish culture. But, something about the series has always left me wanting more.
So I was excited about "Rachel's Deception".
Rose and Noah's story focused on, well Rose and Noah, and their romance.
But, "Rachel's Deception" is entirely different in that, instead of focusing on an Amish girl trying to be with an English boy, it's about an Amish girl wanting more out of her life.
It's about trying to find one's self in a world where independence is frowned upon and can lead to a person being shunned.
That's what drew me into this novel.
I'll be honest, Rachel was not that memorable of a character from the original series. All the same, I was excited to get a glimpse back into the life of Noah's family after the end of the original series (which I won't spoil here in case you haven't read it.)
The book is wonderful-just as fantastic as the original three. It keeps you on your toes, wondering where Hopkins is going to take you this time. And if the community will ever loosen their grip on the Amish teenagers, even slightly.
My only real issue with this book is that it focuses a lot on Rose and Noah, too. Although I love Rose and Noah, I feel like the focus should have been more on Rachel's POV-it was kind of like the younger sister was still being treated just like that, the younger sister in Noah's shadow.
I'd hate to have my story overshadowed by my older brother, especially in my own books. ;)
With that being said, go out and read this book. If you enjoyed the original series, you will love this one just as much, even not more so.
Hopkins has created a world of characters that aren't perfect and aren't always exciting, but are still lovable and make you care about them.
It's a world that-while truly does exist-is not something we normally think about everyday. It's a world that exists right next door to most of us-that is entirely different from our own, but in some ways still the same.
I would recommend not only "Rachel's Deception", but the entire Temptation series to anyone interested in reading about the Amish culture. I would also recommend it to anyone who is just interested in a good old fashioned love story or a story of trying to come into one's own self.
So, while you're sitting there, trying to decide what you should read next from your bookshelf-take a moment and pick up a copy of "Rachel's Deception". I doubt you'll regret it.
So I was excited about "Rachel's Deception".
Rose and Noah's story focused on, well Rose and Noah, and their romance.
But, "Rachel's Deception" is entirely different in that, instead of focusing on an Amish girl trying to be with an English boy, it's about an Amish girl wanting more out of her life.
It's about trying to find one's self in a world where independence is frowned upon and can lead to a person being shunned.
That's what drew me into this novel.
I'll be honest, Rachel was not that memorable of a character from the original series. All the same, I was excited to get a glimpse back into the life of Noah's family after the end of the original series (which I won't spoil here in case you haven't read it.)
The book is wonderful-just as fantastic as the original three. It keeps you on your toes, wondering where Hopkins is going to take you this time. And if the community will ever loosen their grip on the Amish teenagers, even slightly.
My only real issue with this book is that it focuses a lot on Rose and Noah, too. Although I love Rose and Noah, I feel like the focus should have been more on Rachel's POV-it was kind of like the younger sister was still being treated just like that, the younger sister in Noah's shadow.
I'd hate to have my story overshadowed by my older brother, especially in my own books. ;)
With that being said, go out and read this book. If you enjoyed the original series, you will love this one just as much, even not more so.
Hopkins has created a world of characters that aren't perfect and aren't always exciting, but are still lovable and make you care about them.
It's a world that-while truly does exist-is not something we normally think about everyday. It's a world that exists right next door to most of us-that is entirely different from our own, but in some ways still the same.
I would recommend not only "Rachel's Deception", but the entire Temptation series to anyone interested in reading about the Amish culture. I would also recommend it to anyone who is just interested in a good old fashioned love story or a story of trying to come into one's own self.
So, while you're sitting there, trying to decide what you should read next from your bookshelf-take a moment and pick up a copy of "Rachel's Deception". I doubt you'll regret it.
May 22, 2015
Although I've always been curious about the Amish culture, I haven't gravitated toward the fiction. Mostly because I don't know much about it so I may not know what is fact or fiction. However this story, while it felt fictional, also seemed to bring in some relevant topic concerning Amish women. It felt genuine and after reading the author's blog post (check out Wed's post on my blog HERE) I have to say that I also believe it was genuine. It makes sense that the women in a patriarchal and closed society would have it pretty tough. Especially when having several children as babies and toddlers without help. It astounds me that any one would be sane by the time a few of your kids would be old enough to help.
I enjoyed the story and found the pages slipping by even though there were several POV changes. It didn't get confusing and I liked following many characters. I have to say though it also didn't quite feel like Rachel's book but more of Rose's book. Not sure if that is intentional but I think it was a good thing here especially since there is a sort of love triangle going on within the story. I honestly didn't care for the romance here and I also didn't like how Rachel left things. However, I feel as if I may get more of a better ending in Rachel's romance down the series. I could feel a lot of potential in that area. I really think I'll love it in other coming books. Strange, I know. :)
I also have to admit I haven't read all the books prior to reading this book. I thought I would be fine since this is a "offshoot" series beginner as well as #4 in the series. I wasn't lost but I did feel as if I missed some important information especially about Rose. This makes total sense to me and I feel like I may have to go back to book 1 to remedy my lack of knowledge.
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I may have enjoyed it more if I had read the other books but I still found it very entertaining. I recommend this one to those that are curious about a culture we don't often get to see as well as those that enjoy contemporary YA.
I enjoyed the story and found the pages slipping by even though there were several POV changes. It didn't get confusing and I liked following many characters. I have to say though it also didn't quite feel like Rachel's book but more of Rose's book. Not sure if that is intentional but I think it was a good thing here especially since there is a sort of love triangle going on within the story. I honestly didn't care for the romance here and I also didn't like how Rachel left things. However, I feel as if I may get more of a better ending in Rachel's romance down the series. I could feel a lot of potential in that area. I really think I'll love it in other coming books. Strange, I know. :)
I also have to admit I haven't read all the books prior to reading this book. I thought I would be fine since this is a "offshoot" series beginner as well as #4 in the series. I wasn't lost but I did feel as if I missed some important information especially about Rose. This makes total sense to me and I feel like I may have to go back to book 1 to remedy my lack of knowledge.
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I may have enjoyed it more if I had read the other books but I still found it very entertaining. I recommend this one to those that are curious about a culture we don't often get to see as well as those that enjoy contemporary YA.
June 9, 2015
Disclaimer, I did not read the first three books of the Temptation Series. With that being said, Rachel's Deception is actually a spin-off of the first three books so I didn't feel like I was completely lost. Karen Ann Hopkins does an excellent job of filling in the details from the get-go and explains what we've missed if we haven't read the first three books.
The book starts out talking with Levi who ultimately becomes a very important part of this book. I read the book over a week and honestly forgot about him until the end where the book cycles back around to him. While most would consider this not the best situation to be in, it actually pulled me in more to finish the book when we learned more about him.
Karen Ann Hopkins does a great job explaining the Amish culture throughout the book. It helps as certain things take place to know a little bit of back story and how it varies from Amish community to Amish community. The details she provides helps give readers a great view of what the Amish community of Meadowview is like and how it can mix into the English communities around it.
My heart went out to Justin as he started to fall in love with Rachel. She clearly is torn as to which direction she wants to go in life but as Rose encourages Justin to step back it's clear that he is in love with Rachel from the very start. I spent the whole book hoping they end up together and now I can't wait for the next one in the series to find out what happens next.
The only part about the book that I struggled with was the back and forth between characters. Karen Ann Hopkins did a GREAT job lining up the events so you never felt like you missed something, but at the same time it took me a couple of chapters to line up each of the characters and how they would play a role in the book.
The book starts out talking with Levi who ultimately becomes a very important part of this book. I read the book over a week and honestly forgot about him until the end where the book cycles back around to him. While most would consider this not the best situation to be in, it actually pulled me in more to finish the book when we learned more about him.
Karen Ann Hopkins does a great job explaining the Amish culture throughout the book. It helps as certain things take place to know a little bit of back story and how it varies from Amish community to Amish community. The details she provides helps give readers a great view of what the Amish community of Meadowview is like and how it can mix into the English communities around it.
My heart went out to Justin as he started to fall in love with Rachel. She clearly is torn as to which direction she wants to go in life but as Rose encourages Justin to step back it's clear that he is in love with Rachel from the very start. I spent the whole book hoping they end up together and now I can't wait for the next one in the series to find out what happens next.
The only part about the book that I struggled with was the back and forth between characters. Karen Ann Hopkins did a GREAT job lining up the events so you never felt like you missed something, but at the same time it took me a couple of chapters to line up each of the characters and how they would play a role in the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2015
This is my first book in the Temptation series. I was concerned that it might be difficult to follow along, but didn't have a problem at all. I'm planning to go back and read the first three, however, just because I enjoyed this one so much and would like to know everyone's full backstory before the fifth book comes out.
The cover is beautiful, and goes along with the others in the series. It doesn't give much of a clue to the story of Rachel, however.
After reading the prologue, you are well aware that there is going to be trouble for Rose at some point in this book, even if the focus is mainly on her young sister-in-law, Rachel. Knowing that is was coming, and knowing that Rose and Nathan had no idea for much of the book, just added to the tension of the story.
There are several stories going on at once, but they aren't difficult to follow. In fact, they bring the Amish and English characters together in easily believable ways throughout. Even though it was only a small part of the story, I was most moved by the visit Rose made to another Amish community, which is more "basic" even than Meadowview.
The story of Rachel, and her feelings for Micah, who is Amish, and Justin, who is not, is far from finished, and I can hardly wait to see where it goes.
I received an e-copy of this book via Deitre Helvy and her tour company A Leisure Moment free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
The cover is beautiful, and goes along with the others in the series. It doesn't give much of a clue to the story of Rachel, however.
After reading the prologue, you are well aware that there is going to be trouble for Rose at some point in this book, even if the focus is mainly on her young sister-in-law, Rachel. Knowing that is was coming, and knowing that Rose and Nathan had no idea for much of the book, just added to the tension of the story.
There are several stories going on at once, but they aren't difficult to follow. In fact, they bring the Amish and English characters together in easily believable ways throughout. Even though it was only a small part of the story, I was most moved by the visit Rose made to another Amish community, which is more "basic" even than Meadowview.
The story of Rachel, and her feelings for Micah, who is Amish, and Justin, who is not, is far from finished, and I can hardly wait to see where it goes.
I received an e-copy of this book via Deitre Helvy and her tour company A Leisure Moment free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
October 13, 2015
Rachel's Deception was a much anticipated story for me. I adored the rest of the series but was very sad when I thought I was having to say goodbye to Noah and Rose and the rest. Readers should be warned, however, that this particular installment takes a bit of a dark turn and is quite a bit different in some regards than the rest of this series.
How does a young girl cope with all of the loss and turmoil after a family tragedy? How do you move forward and continue on being a good Amish girl after everything God has allowed to happen?
These seem to be the questions that Rachel struggles with and has to face and move forward through in this installment. The answers to these questions will surprise even the most discerning reader. No matter what you expect, what you get in these pages will surprise everyone.
The 3 star rating is because while I thoroughly enjoyed this story, something just nagged at me. I could never put my finger on it but I just felt like there was something missing and that there was some important detail that the author didn't give us. I will continue to read if any more books come out in this series thouugh and hope to see these holes filled in.
How does a young girl cope with all of the loss and turmoil after a family tragedy? How do you move forward and continue on being a good Amish girl after everything God has allowed to happen?
These seem to be the questions that Rachel struggles with and has to face and move forward through in this installment. The answers to these questions will surprise even the most discerning reader. No matter what you expect, what you get in these pages will surprise everyone.
The 3 star rating is because while I thoroughly enjoyed this story, something just nagged at me. I could never put my finger on it but I just felt like there was something missing and that there was some important detail that the author didn't give us. I will continue to read if any more books come out in this series thouugh and hope to see these holes filled in.
January 19, 2016
I rate this book 2.5 stars out of 5
Okay I had really high hopes for this book and I must say I was rather disappointed.
Here are a few reasons why:
. Literally the temptation trilogy rolled into one book.
. Same love triangle only from an Amish POV
. SLOPPY EDITING
The ending did intrigue me though, I will give the author that but the rest of the book, I was shaking my head. The temptation trilogy will always be one of my favourite love stories, but this book sadly not. I enjoyed seeing more of Rose and Noah, it was just a shame the book was put together so sloppy.
I said this when I reviewed Lamb to the slaughter: get a better editor!
I can over look one mistake but the fact that this book was filled with missing words really ruined the plot for me.
But if there is another book after this one I will read it, ( but only to find out about this love triangle) hopefully that one will be edited a bit neater.
Okay I had really high hopes for this book and I must say I was rather disappointed.
Here are a few reasons why:
. Literally the temptation trilogy rolled into one book.
. Same love triangle only from an Amish POV
. SLOPPY EDITING
The ending did intrigue me though, I will give the author that but the rest of the book, I was shaking my head. The temptation trilogy will always be one of my favourite love stories, but this book sadly not. I enjoyed seeing more of Rose and Noah, it was just a shame the book was put together so sloppy.
I said this when I reviewed Lamb to the slaughter: get a better editor!
I can over look one mistake but the fact that this book was filled with missing words really ruined the plot for me.
But if there is another book after this one I will read it, ( but only to find out about this love triangle) hopefully that one will be edited a bit neater.
July 21, 2016
You don’t know how happy I was when Karen said she was going to continue the Temptation Series.
I wanted to hear more of Noah and Rose’s story. And she delivered so much more. Though their love was hard one to fight for, Noah and Rose never gave up. Rachel’s Deception left off where Forever ended. So Noah and Rose’s journey continues.
Boy, I thought Levi was gone for good, but Rachel’s Deception started off with him. And he’s planning on something in prison to hurt Rose again. He’s up to no good. I didn’t want to put it down to figure out what it was. That’s what I love about books that intrigue me. And Amish books are one of them.
I wanted to hear more of Noah and Rose’s story. And she delivered so much more. Though their love was hard one to fight for, Noah and Rose never gave up. Rachel’s Deception left off where Forever ended. So Noah and Rose’s journey continues.
Boy, I thought Levi was gone for good, but Rachel’s Deception started off with him. And he’s planning on something in prison to hurt Rose again. He’s up to no good. I didn’t want to put it down to figure out what it was. That’s what I love about books that intrigue me. And Amish books are one of them.
July 29, 2016
It was good to catch up with what was happening with Noah and Rose. I feel like this book has been left open to allow for another book. Rachel's story still seems unfinished. She is one very troubled teen living in the life of her Amish culture. Discovering the daily struggles she is facing after the death of her sister. Hopefully she works out what it is she truly wants out of her life.
September 13, 2015
In which we learn that there are no consequences when you go and beat people to a pulp to protect your women as long as you're one of the good guys.
July 19, 2016
Best Amish series
I'm always forgetting reviews. So I'm writing one. Thanks for the best Amish series. This was my first and can't wait to read more!
I'm always forgetting reviews. So I'm writing one. Thanks for the best Amish series. This was my first and can't wait to read more!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews