What do you think?
Rate this book
Amish Letters #1
Written in Love
When real life isn’t as ideal as the picture painted in letters, can two young people set aside the images they created and learn to love each other’s true selves?
Jalon Chupp has a past he isn’t proud to claim. He’s worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his faith. As he sees other members of his close-knit Amish community marry and start families, he thinks he may be ready to follow that same path. Remembering a girl he grew up with, Phoebe Bontrager, who moved to Indiana a few years ago, he writes her a letter, striking up a pen pal relationship. But when he invites her to visit him in Birch Creek, Ohio, she resists.
Phoebe has kept her relationship with Jalon a secret, knowing her parents wouldn’t approve of the man with a troubled past. When her mother plays matchmaker, Phoebe sneaks away to Birch Creek and stays with her older brother Asa and his new wife, Abigail. As Phoebe and Jalon spend more time together, they discover they have misrepresented themselves in their letters and begin to worry that maybe their relationship was not meant to be. In order to reach past the perfect images they created in their letters, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something—or Someone—bigger than either of them could imagine.
Jalon Chupp has a past he isn’t proud to claim. He’s worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his faith. As he sees other members of his close-knit Amish community marry and start families, he thinks he may be ready to follow that same path. Remembering a girl he grew up with, Phoebe Bontrager, who moved to Indiana a few years ago, he writes her a letter, striking up a pen pal relationship. But when he invites her to visit him in Birch Creek, Ohio, she resists.
Phoebe has kept her relationship with Jalon a secret, knowing her parents wouldn’t approve of the man with a troubled past. When her mother plays matchmaker, Phoebe sneaks away to Birch Creek and stays with her older brother Asa and his new wife, Abigail. As Phoebe and Jalon spend more time together, they discover they have misrepresented themselves in their letters and begin to worry that maybe their relationship was not meant to be. In order to reach past the perfect images they created in their letters, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something—or Someone—bigger than either of them could imagine.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2017
112 people are currently reading
1159 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Fuller
119 books1,112 followersBest-selling author of Amish fiction. Also a wife, mother, crafter, coffee addict, football fan, and chocolate aficionado.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
March 28, 2023
Ive read quite a few Amish books by Kathleen Fuller and WRITTEN IN LOVE is exactly why I love her stories! WRITTEN IN LOVE is the first book in the Amish Letters series. After reading WRITTEN IN LOVE I will read every book Kathleen Fuller has written. I instantly felt like I was sitting in Birch Creek, Ohio helping Phoebe try and figure out what direction her life was heading to. WRITTEN IN LOVE is filled with just as much hope as it is with uncertain feelings. My emotions were all over the place while reading and I was even holding my breath at some parts that I was afraid to keep going. How much more heartache and grief could Phoebe put up with?
WRITTEN IN LOVE is filled with struggling with the choices we have to make and once you start reading, it will be impossible to put down. Phoebe receives a letter addressed to someone else. Instead of throwing it out, she mails it back to it’s sender. Jalon responds back to her and their friendship begins through letters. Keep the tissues close by because this will be one heck of an emotional journey. Phoebe is a young woman with a child and lives with an aunt who is very strict. Will Phoebe ever find her place in the world and be happy once again? Kathleen Fuller does a wonderful job of teaching the reader what Phoebe is going through. Kathleen Fuller normally writes Amish Fiction, but let me tell you, she really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author.
“‘Dear Mr. Chupp’ – with those three words, a pen-pal relationship is ignited and two lives are changed forever.” (back cover) WRITTEN IN LOVE is filled with likable and relatable characters that will find their way into the reader’s heart. Kathleen has a way of grabbing your heart and just squeezing it until you swear it is going to burst. Then she hands it back to you, slightly bruised but still in tact. How an author can do that is beyond me, but I love when it happens. WRITTEN IN LOVE is going to stay in my heart for a long time to come. My heart is still aching for Phoebe after all she went through when her world came crashing down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
WRITTEN IN LOVE is filled with struggling with the choices we have to make and once you start reading, it will be impossible to put down. Phoebe receives a letter addressed to someone else. Instead of throwing it out, she mails it back to it’s sender. Jalon responds back to her and their friendship begins through letters. Keep the tissues close by because this will be one heck of an emotional journey. Phoebe is a young woman with a child and lives with an aunt who is very strict. Will Phoebe ever find her place in the world and be happy once again? Kathleen Fuller does a wonderful job of teaching the reader what Phoebe is going through. Kathleen Fuller normally writes Amish Fiction, but let me tell you, she really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author.
“‘Dear Mr. Chupp’ – with those three words, a pen-pal relationship is ignited and two lives are changed forever.” (back cover) WRITTEN IN LOVE is filled with likable and relatable characters that will find their way into the reader’s heart. Kathleen has a way of grabbing your heart and just squeezing it until you swear it is going to burst. Then she hands it back to you, slightly bruised but still in tact. How an author can do that is beyond me, but I love when it happens. WRITTEN IN LOVE is going to stay in my heart for a long time to come. My heart is still aching for Phoebe after all she went through when her world came crashing down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
March 10, 2017
Written in Love (Amish Letters, #1
A misdelivered letter starts a penpal communication between Phoebe and Jalon. Several chapters in the beginning of the book were in letter form as they communicated with each other. Those feelings developed into something more than friendship though. This book is a bit darker than some Amish books, it's not just the good times here. Phoebe and Jalon both have hurting hearts from errors made in their youthful pasts. They both struggle deeply with these and are not sure how to tell each other about their past. When you love someone you can not let the past hold you back though. This books shows how they work together in love,understanding and faith to overcome the past and make a faith filled life together. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series and revisiting the characters that have become like friends.
Pub Date 14 Mar 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for a review copy for my honest opinion.
A misdelivered letter starts a penpal communication between Phoebe and Jalon. Several chapters in the beginning of the book were in letter form as they communicated with each other. Those feelings developed into something more than friendship though. This book is a bit darker than some Amish books, it's not just the good times here. Phoebe and Jalon both have hurting hearts from errors made in their youthful pasts. They both struggle deeply with these and are not sure how to tell each other about their past. When you love someone you can not let the past hold you back though. This books shows how they work together in love,understanding and faith to overcome the past and make a faith filled life together. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series and revisiting the characters that have become like friends.
Pub Date 14 Mar 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for a review copy for my honest opinion.
March 15, 2017
Written in Love is the first book in the new Amish Letters series by Kathleen Fuller. A portion of this story takes place in Birch Creek, so readers (like me) who loved the Amish of Birch Creek series will be happy to recognize the setting and a few familiar faces.
I really loved this book! The characters had heart. They were deep. They had issues that they were trying to work out and events from their pasts to overcome. I found both Phoebe and Jalon to be very likable characters, who sometimes still struggled to have faith that God had good plans for their lives.
The book began with letters exchanged between Jalon and Phoebe and that was such a fun way to get to know these two characters! The rest of the story kept me intrigued and I had trouble setting this novel down. There were a handful of side characters in this story and they were all fun to get to know, as well. I’m really looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I really loved this book! The characters had heart. They were deep. They had issues that they were trying to work out and events from their pasts to overcome. I found both Phoebe and Jalon to be very likable characters, who sometimes still struggled to have faith that God had good plans for their lives.
The book began with letters exchanged between Jalon and Phoebe and that was such a fun way to get to know these two characters! The rest of the story kept me intrigued and I had trouble setting this novel down. There were a handful of side characters in this story and they were all fun to get to know, as well. I’m really looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
May 20, 2023
I don't know if I'm the only one but this book dragged for me. I got to 57% of this book and still they hadn't talked about what there life would intale. So many mixing pieces. Who's the boys dad. Why can't they go home then they go home. I have read this author and loved her books. This one nope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2017
Ok, I just finished this book, and I am sad that it is over, yes, it is one of those books you never want to end, and will linger with you.
The thought of mail going to the wrong person, is perfect, and that it goes to another Amish person, is wild, but what a great premise for a story, and it is and thus begins a letter writing courtship, without the participants even realizing they are doing so. The letter writers are both holding secrets, ones that may make the other not want to be with them, but they do withhold them at first.
We see with some other characters in this book that try to live their faith at the detriment of others, and they don’t seem to care how much they hurt others, which will make you rather sad and angry.
This is one book you don’t want to miss, and by the sounds of it there may be more in this same line of topic, I sure hope so.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
The thought of mail going to the wrong person, is perfect, and that it goes to another Amish person, is wild, but what a great premise for a story, and it is and thus begins a letter writing courtship, without the participants even realizing they are doing so. The letter writers are both holding secrets, ones that may make the other not want to be with them, but they do withhold them at first.
We see with some other characters in this book that try to live their faith at the detriment of others, and they don’t seem to care how much they hurt others, which will make you rather sad and angry.
This is one book you don’t want to miss, and by the sounds of it there may be more in this same line of topic, I sure hope so.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
March 8, 2017
I had to wait a day before writing my review. I really didn't want this book to end. It was so different and also something that could actually occur and I loved it. Phoebe received a letter addressed to someone else. Instead of throwing it out, she mailed it back to it's sender. Jalon (who I loved in this book) responded back to her and there friendship began through letters.
Both Phoebe and Jalon were hiding shameful secrets and feeling low about themselves. Even with this going on writing got them both through the day. When the two finally met in person things quickly go back and forth from rocky to good.
Kathleen Fuller created an amazing story with new characters you will love. Leanna outspoken and daring grew on me. Malachi will keep a smile on your face throughout the whole book. Adam and Karen I also like and I'm hoping book #2 will focus on those two. I'm sure it's more to learn there than what was said.
If you are looking for a touching & heart warming story, Written in Love will give you that and more!!!!!
Both Phoebe and Jalon were hiding shameful secrets and feeling low about themselves. Even with this going on writing got them both through the day. When the two finally met in person things quickly go back and forth from rocky to good.
Kathleen Fuller created an amazing story with new characters you will love. Leanna outspoken and daring grew on me. Malachi will keep a smile on your face throughout the whole book. Adam and Karen I also like and I'm hoping book #2 will focus on those two. I'm sure it's more to learn there than what was said.
If you are looking for a touching & heart warming story, Written in Love will give you that and more!!!!!
May 9, 2017
Written in Love is the first (amazing!) book in the Amish Letters series by Kathleen Fuller. I really enjoy reading books by this author because I feel like she writes characters that are flawed and realistic. I think at this point, everyone knows I have a soft spot for flawed characters. I have a deep connection with characters that have made mistakes and are in need of healing, emotionally, spiritually or physically. I appreciate when an author breaches that divide between fiction and real life by creating authentic realism in his or her characters. Kathleen possesses the ability to do that so perfectly.
Unlike many in the Amish genre, this book tackles hard subjects such as verbal abuse, unplanned pregnancy, and alcoholism. I also appreciate that while love is an important theme in this book—the author doesn’t use it as a catalyst for change or for redemption. I felt that the author did a great job at showing that forgiveness comes from the Lord. Then, after we have repented and sought forgiveness from the Lord, we have to learn to forgive ourselves.
I was captivated by this story from the start and couldn’t put it down. I read it from start to finish without pause. If you’re like me and love a large dose of realism and plenty of redeeming grace—I strongly suggest this book.
Absolutely a five-star start to the Amish Letters series. I can’t wait to pick up the next installment! The Promise of a Letter is expected to release on August 15, 2017.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Booklook Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.
Unlike many in the Amish genre, this book tackles hard subjects such as verbal abuse, unplanned pregnancy, and alcoholism. I also appreciate that while love is an important theme in this book—the author doesn’t use it as a catalyst for change or for redemption. I felt that the author did a great job at showing that forgiveness comes from the Lord. Then, after we have repented and sought forgiveness from the Lord, we have to learn to forgive ourselves.
I was captivated by this story from the start and couldn’t put it down. I read it from start to finish without pause. If you’re like me and love a large dose of realism and plenty of redeeming grace—I strongly suggest this book.
Absolutely a five-star start to the Amish Letters series. I can’t wait to pick up the next installment! The Promise of a Letter is expected to release on August 15, 2017.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Booklook Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.
April 17, 2023
I listened to the audio version of this book and I enjoyed it.
I liked the idea of a friendship that is started because of a letter being delivered to the wrong address. This story has friendship, love and faith.
I liked the idea of a friendship that is started because of a letter being delivered to the wrong address. This story has friendship, love and faith.
July 2, 2018
This was an emotional story. The main characters, Jalon and Phoebe, had past mistakes that they had to work through. I enjoyed the journey each of them went on; it was a rough ride. I like the ending; I wasn't expecting everything that happened.
March 28, 2017
Fully enjoyed this book. Audio was nice. Will read other titles from this author.
June 18, 2018
About this book:
“Jalon Chupp has a past he isn’t proud to claim. He’s worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his faith. When he receives a sweet note included in a piece of misdirected mail, he can’t help but write back. Soon, the letters he receives from Phoebe are the highlights of his days, and with a hopeful heart, he suggests they meet in person.
Phoebe, too, looks forward to every single one of Jalon’s letters. Living with her overbearing aunt, Phoebe doesn’t have too much to look forward to. But when Jalon suggests they meet, she panics—although she has shared some of the deepest longings of her heart with him, she hasn’t been entirely truthful about her past. But when Jalon shows up at her aunt’s doorstep, everything is revealed. And she can only pray he’ll forgive her for holding back the truth.
In order to reach beyond the errors of their pasts, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something—or Someone—bigger than either of them could pen.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Amish Letters” series.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are mentioned, quoted, & remembered; Prayers & Thanking God; Church going; Many mentions of God, His plans, & forgiveness; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, services, worship, sermons, & bishops/ministers; Mentions of Christmas; Mentions of Amish beliefs & faiths; Mentions of sins & confessing; A few mentions of Bibles & those in the Bible; A few mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of Christian duties; A couple mentions of godly people & godliness; A couple mentions of hymns; A mention of Godspeed; A mention of being blessed;
*Note: A mention of a demonic power.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘wimp’, two ‘idiot’s, three forms of ‘shut up’, and three ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm & eye rolling; Jalon gets an urge to drink again (but he does not); Many mentions of alcohol, drinking, hangovers, sobriety, alcoholics (Jalon’s past), & an accident (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of parties & drinking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of a little boy being punished & locked-in a room; A few mentions of threats; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of stealing; A couple mentions of a child being slapped by his father; A couple mentions of animal waste; A mention of a spanking.
Sexual Content- two barely-above-not-detailed kisses and a semi-detailed kiss; Wanting to kiss & touch (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Mentions of crushes; A few mentions of affairs & a conception; A few mentions of chaperones & temptation; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of blushes; A mention of a wife sitting on his husband’s lap; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Phoebe Bontrager, age 23
-Jalon Chupp, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them & Adam
325 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
While not my favorite Amish story, this one was good and had some Spiritual Content that was nice to see. The ending did seem a bit rushed, but I liked how it all worked out. The letters at the beginning was so fun and I feel like that gave us a taste of the main two characters personalities before seeing their POVs. Phoebe was a neat character and I liked her bubbliness. I probably won’t continue this series due to time commitments, but this one was pretty clean so that was nice.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Thomas Nelson) for this honest review.
“Jalon Chupp has a past he isn’t proud to claim. He’s worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his faith. When he receives a sweet note included in a piece of misdirected mail, he can’t help but write back. Soon, the letters he receives from Phoebe are the highlights of his days, and with a hopeful heart, he suggests they meet in person.
Phoebe, too, looks forward to every single one of Jalon’s letters. Living with her overbearing aunt, Phoebe doesn’t have too much to look forward to. But when Jalon suggests they meet, she panics—although she has shared some of the deepest longings of her heart with him, she hasn’t been entirely truthful about her past. But when Jalon shows up at her aunt’s doorstep, everything is revealed. And she can only pray he’ll forgive her for holding back the truth.
In order to reach beyond the errors of their pasts, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something—or Someone—bigger than either of them could pen.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Amish Letters” series.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are mentioned, quoted, & remembered; Prayers & Thanking God; Church going; Many mentions of God, His plans, & forgiveness; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, services, worship, sermons, & bishops/ministers; Mentions of Christmas; Mentions of Amish beliefs & faiths; Mentions of sins & confessing; A few mentions of Bibles & those in the Bible; A few mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of Christian duties; A couple mentions of godly people & godliness; A couple mentions of hymns; A mention of Godspeed; A mention of being blessed;
*Note: A mention of a demonic power.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘wimp’, two ‘idiot’s, three forms of ‘shut up’, and three ‘stupid’s; A bit of sarcasm & eye rolling; Jalon gets an urge to drink again (but he does not); Many mentions of alcohol, drinking, hangovers, sobriety, alcoholics (Jalon’s past), & an accident (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of parties & drinking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of a little boy being punished & locked-in a room; A few mentions of threats; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of stealing; A couple mentions of a child being slapped by his father; A couple mentions of animal waste; A mention of a spanking.
Sexual Content- two barely-above-not-detailed kisses and a semi-detailed kiss; Wanting to kiss & touch (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Mentions of crushes; A few mentions of affairs & a conception; A few mentions of chaperones & temptation; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of blushes; A mention of a wife sitting on his husband’s lap; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Phoebe Bontrager, age 23
-Jalon Chupp, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them & Adam
325 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
While not my favorite Amish story, this one was good and had some Spiritual Content that was nice to see. The ending did seem a bit rushed, but I liked how it all worked out. The letters at the beginning was so fun and I feel like that gave us a taste of the main two characters personalities before seeing their POVs. Phoebe was a neat character and I liked her bubbliness. I probably won’t continue this series due to time commitments, but this one was pretty clean so that was nice.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Thomas Nelson) for this honest review.
April 22, 2017
4.5 Stars
The idea of a book about letters immediately caught my attention – I love letter-writing. :)
This was an incredibly sweet story. And actually my first Amish fiction. The genre isn’t really my taste, but this book surprised me. It was really good – the story was really good.
I just loved how it started out with letters written between the two characters. There were pages of them, and I so loved that! And even when it melted into third-person telling, it was still captivating. I wanted to know what was going to happen between the two characters and their backstories.
It was a sweet love-story. And not without trials, either! There were several bumps and misunderstandings, making it real.
Even though I wasn’t extremely like the main character, I could still connect with her, and that made the reading all the more enjoyable.
All in all, it was a very sweet romance story. Clean, yet with realistic problems and lessons, some Faith-filled hope, and great characters. :)
I’m hoping to read the next book in this series when it comes out. :)
First posted on my blog: https://godspeculiartreasurerae.wordp...
The idea of a book about letters immediately caught my attention – I love letter-writing. :)
This was an incredibly sweet story. And actually my first Amish fiction. The genre isn’t really my taste, but this book surprised me. It was really good – the story was really good.
I just loved how it started out with letters written between the two characters. There were pages of them, and I so loved that! And even when it melted into third-person telling, it was still captivating. I wanted to know what was going to happen between the two characters and their backstories.
It was a sweet love-story. And not without trials, either! There were several bumps and misunderstandings, making it real.
Even though I wasn’t extremely like the main character, I could still connect with her, and that made the reading all the more enjoyable.
All in all, it was a very sweet romance story. Clean, yet with realistic problems and lessons, some Faith-filled hope, and great characters. :)
I’m hoping to read the next book in this series when it comes out. :)
First posted on my blog: https://godspeculiartreasurerae.wordp...
August 8, 2017
I am quite captivated by novels that include letter writing so this series really appeals to me. Written in Love is the first book in An Amish Letters Novel series and I love the way the author has set the stage for future novels. (At least I hope I'm right in making that assumption.) Because this story is filled with engaging characters and now that I have a feel for this close knit Amish community I can't wait to learn more.
Jalon and Phoebe's love story is sandwiched between a series of fast and furious letter writing. Loved the way the letters morphed into something so much more and yet for all that is said, even more is left unsaid and that leads to no end of complications.
Fuller has crafted an emotional tale of love and longing and the desperate need to be accepted. Both hero and heroine have made mistakes in their past that not only shadow their present but threaten to destroy their future. Finding their happily ever after involves digging deeper into their faith. Actually allowing the peace that comes from fully accepting God's mercy to work a change in their lives so that a relationship based on faith and love can flourish.
A compulsive kind of read that inspires and delights with promise of more to come in future novels.
Jalon and Phoebe's love story is sandwiched between a series of fast and furious letter writing. Loved the way the letters morphed into something so much more and yet for all that is said, even more is left unsaid and that leads to no end of complications.
Fuller has crafted an emotional tale of love and longing and the desperate need to be accepted. Both hero and heroine have made mistakes in their past that not only shadow their present but threaten to destroy their future. Finding their happily ever after involves digging deeper into their faith. Actually allowing the peace that comes from fully accepting God's mercy to work a change in their lives so that a relationship based on faith and love can flourish.
A compulsive kind of read that inspires and delights with promise of more to come in future novels.
March 24, 2017
I must say I almost was brought to tears in this wonderful novel. Kathleen has a great talent in making you want to stay glued to this book!
I loved how she brings people together and it shows in her love of writing.
I loved several scenes in this book as well. Love binds family in more ways than one. Love is a. strong emotion and Phoebe is a steller person in this regard.
Again I will say very strongly I hate bullies! Bishop Weaver is such a person. I hate that because we all make mistakes in our lives.
We all have skeletons in our closet and I love that Phoebe tries to right hers. We also a have a past that we are burdened with and with God's love and help we can try to over that.
Too bad that Bishop Weaver didn't see it that way.
I'm going for Jalon to be my hero. He's the best man for the job.
Even Jalon had some skeletons to overcome and Phoebe and Adam were the right people for the job.
God has a way of intervening at just the right times and the author has shown us that in this beautiful novel.
I think I finished this book in three days it was this good!
Sometimes it takes people to learn things the hard way and I'm definitely guilty of this! Phoebe and Jalon learn things the hard way! But, I also think in a good way!
I strongly recommend this book for people who love reading Amish stories and who love Kathleen Fuller
I loved how she brings people together and it shows in her love of writing.
I loved several scenes in this book as well. Love binds family in more ways than one. Love is a. strong emotion and Phoebe is a steller person in this regard.
Again I will say very strongly I hate bullies! Bishop Weaver is such a person. I hate that because we all make mistakes in our lives.
We all have skeletons in our closet and I love that Phoebe tries to right hers. We also a have a past that we are burdened with and with God's love and help we can try to over that.
Too bad that Bishop Weaver didn't see it that way.
I'm going for Jalon to be my hero. He's the best man for the job.
Even Jalon had some skeletons to overcome and Phoebe and Adam were the right people for the job.
God has a way of intervening at just the right times and the author has shown us that in this beautiful novel.
I think I finished this book in three days it was this good!
Sometimes it takes people to learn things the hard way and I'm definitely guilty of this! Phoebe and Jalon learn things the hard way! But, I also think in a good way!
I strongly recommend this book for people who love reading Amish stories and who love Kathleen Fuller
April 17, 2017
This book shows that nothing happens by chance, but God has a plan and a purpose. A postal error creates circumstances that cause Phoebe and Jalon to become pen pals. Each are concealing past sins that they are living in the shadow of. Can they find forgiveness from the other and from themselves? This book delves deeper than most Amish books to show flawed characters that are moving beyond the past to a brighter future. They are believable and well written, as well as easy to identify with. I didn't want it to end. Kathleen Fuller has the ability to grab our attention from the beginning and keep us turning pages quickly till the end. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Guild. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Guild. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Read
May 11, 2017I like this author Kathleen Fuller who wrote the book Written in Love.
The story starts out with letters that were misdirected and a man chose to answer to the sender .
Jalon Chupp is a lonely man and soon finds lot of interest in the woman who begins writing back, she is amish as is he and they have things in common.
Phoebe is a young woman with a child and lives with an aunt who is very strict. Love does not abound in this home but she and her young son are appreciative of a roof over their heads and food to eat. yet....it would be nice if there could be Love and fun at times.
The letters become so important and Phoebe keeps them to herself not telling her aunt.
Do you think someone can fall in love ...through letters?
You will like reading this story, I did.
The story starts out with letters that were misdirected and a man chose to answer to the sender .
Jalon Chupp is a lonely man and soon finds lot of interest in the woman who begins writing back, she is amish as is he and they have things in common.
Phoebe is a young woman with a child and lives with an aunt who is very strict. Love does not abound in this home but she and her young son are appreciative of a roof over their heads and food to eat. yet....it would be nice if there could be Love and fun at times.
The letters become so important and Phoebe keeps them to herself not telling her aunt.
Do you think someone can fall in love ...through letters?
You will like reading this story, I did.
August 17, 2017
I love letter writing, so the meet-cute via postal service was one that caught my attention and was so sweet! For the amount of communication Jalon and Phoebe do in the beginning through letters, they have an awful lot of miscommunication once they meet in real life. Jalon is a private person and finds it hard to verbalize his feelings, which is probably why letter writing was easier for him than face-to-face interactions. Despite his reticence, Phoebe can see his compassion, kindness, and strength, especially with her son. I liked that neither of them are perfect, but they draw close to each other even though their flaws create conflict that they must overcome. I loved being back in Birch Creek from the author's previous series- it has a wonderful sense of community and Phoebe finds herself finally welcomed and not condemned for her past. The family members and neighbors of Jalon play a big role in working together to support Jalon and Phoebe and resolving many of the challenges they face. I'm looking forward to getting to know them more and seeing where the series takes them!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
December 17, 2017
Sunday, December 17, 2017
Written in Love by Kathleen Fuller, © 2017
Amish Letters series, Book 1
~* in the heart of Ohio Amish country *~
A mistaken address begins correspondence between Jalon Chupp and Phoebe Bontrager, so far unknown to each other ~ that is, until Phoebe returns his letter, explaining it came to the wrong address. Or did it? Phoebe continues to answer Jalon's letters until they are unsure who actually began their pen pal journey. Their letters become frequent, though short, and they learn fun things about each other's lives and an exercise in sharing self they would not likely do in person ~ such as their fears and hopes. I am wondering how Phoebe's mail is not intercepted as she lives with an older family member. When an envelope comes addressed to you stops time in your daily life, to have a bright exchange for a moment of refreshment.
Jalon, too, comes to expect Phoebe's letters. Wanting to know her face-to-face, he takes a challenge to go to meet her. A knock at the door brings revealed life to the forefront.
I like how these characters learn to look to God for their completeness. Against all odds, they are determined to respect the path opened before them.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. ~ Jeremiah 29:11
His ways are best. I am glad that Truth is discovered, examined, and found by them!
***Thank you to author Kathleen Fuller and to Fiction Guild for a copy of Written in Love. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Written in Love by Kathleen Fuller, © 2017
Amish Letters series, Book 1
~* in the heart of Ohio Amish country *~
A mistaken address begins correspondence between Jalon Chupp and Phoebe Bontrager, so far unknown to each other ~ that is, until Phoebe returns his letter, explaining it came to the wrong address. Or did it? Phoebe continues to answer Jalon's letters until they are unsure who actually began their pen pal journey. Their letters become frequent, though short, and they learn fun things about each other's lives and an exercise in sharing self they would not likely do in person ~ such as their fears and hopes. I am wondering how Phoebe's mail is not intercepted as she lives with an older family member. When an envelope comes addressed to you stops time in your daily life, to have a bright exchange for a moment of refreshment.
Jalon, too, comes to expect Phoebe's letters. Wanting to know her face-to-face, he takes a challenge to go to meet her. A knock at the door brings revealed life to the forefront.
I like how these characters learn to look to God for their completeness. Against all odds, they are determined to respect the path opened before them.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. ~ Jeremiah 29:11
His ways are best. I am glad that Truth is discovered, examined, and found by them!
***Thank you to author Kathleen Fuller and to Fiction Guild for a copy of Written in Love. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
February 1, 2021
Oh I loved this book so much getting the next one from the library today. Upfront honesty is the best policy but would have made for a shorter book.
A misdirected letter made penpals of 2 lonely young Amish people. Soon they became very interested in each other and wanted to know each other more.
I just couldn’t find enough time to read this book. But at the end I was just like no computer no tv I have to finish this no sleep. It was that good for me.
A misdirected letter made penpals of 2 lonely young Amish people. Soon they became very interested in each other and wanted to know each other more.
I just couldn’t find enough time to read this book. But at the end I was just like no computer no tv I have to finish this no sleep. It was that good for me.
January 3, 2022
A beautiful story of how one accidental letter changed the course of many lives.
March 15, 2017
I am so excited about this new series, and about returning to Birch Creek! I think this is her best book yet, and can't wait for book two.
April 10, 2017
"'Dear Mr. Chupp' - with those three words, a pen-pal relationship is ignited and two lives are changed forever." (back cover)
I've read a good number of Kathleen Fuller's novellas in novella collections such as An Amish Home, An Amish Harvest and An Amish Market, and all were wonderfully written. I've always wanted to read Kathleen's full novels, but just didn't have the chance until her recent release, Written in Love. This first book in the Amish Letters collection was A-MAZING.
I loved how it starts with the letters between our main characters, Jalon and Phoebe. It's a refreshing way for readers to get immersed in the letters and how it all started. At first, I kind of wished it lasted a little longer, only because I felt like the love came too soon, but in truth, I think the love developed more when they finally met face to face.
"He turned and gazed at her for a long moment, and all the attraction she'd wanted to see in his eyes for so long was there and vulnerable. He brushed his fingertip against the lower part of her cheek, making her smile." (198)
Past mistakes can hinder a person's acceptance of others, and of themselves. I admire how Phoebe understood her mistakes, as well as the blessings that God provided from those mistakes. Both Phoebe and Jalon had a difficult journey that lead to their reliance on their faith. The message of looking in the heart, not a person's past failures or accomplishment brought those two together when they felt and read between the lines of truly finding out who they are as a person. When their encounters stretched beyond the help of the postal system, it was really nice to read how they try to work things out.
The story line of Phoebe's pastor and her aunt had my insides boiling with anger. Such hypocrites! And in truth, without those "villainous" roles, we might not understand or accept the contrast in change, repentance or forgiveness of the other characters. The whole plot, as well as the plots of all the characters were so well crafted, I didn't want it to end - though it was a satisfying end that provided closure for this chapter of the series. In all, a great story, a great cover and great set of characters you will fall in love with! I can't wait for the next one in the series!
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
I've read a good number of Kathleen Fuller's novellas in novella collections such as An Amish Home, An Amish Harvest and An Amish Market, and all were wonderfully written. I've always wanted to read Kathleen's full novels, but just didn't have the chance until her recent release, Written in Love. This first book in the Amish Letters collection was A-MAZING.
I loved how it starts with the letters between our main characters, Jalon and Phoebe. It's a refreshing way for readers to get immersed in the letters and how it all started. At first, I kind of wished it lasted a little longer, only because I felt like the love came too soon, but in truth, I think the love developed more when they finally met face to face.
"He turned and gazed at her for a long moment, and all the attraction she'd wanted to see in his eyes for so long was there and vulnerable. He brushed his fingertip against the lower part of her cheek, making her smile." (198)
Past mistakes can hinder a person's acceptance of others, and of themselves. I admire how Phoebe understood her mistakes, as well as the blessings that God provided from those mistakes. Both Phoebe and Jalon had a difficult journey that lead to their reliance on their faith. The message of looking in the heart, not a person's past failures or accomplishment brought those two together when they felt and read between the lines of truly finding out who they are as a person. When their encounters stretched beyond the help of the postal system, it was really nice to read how they try to work things out.
The story line of Phoebe's pastor and her aunt had my insides boiling with anger. Such hypocrites! And in truth, without those "villainous" roles, we might not understand or accept the contrast in change, repentance or forgiveness of the other characters. The whole plot, as well as the plots of all the characters were so well crafted, I didn't want it to end - though it was a satisfying end that provided closure for this chapter of the series. In all, a great story, a great cover and great set of characters you will fall in love with! I can't wait for the next one in the series!
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
March 23, 2017
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
"Dear Mr. Chupp"---WITH THOSE THREE WORDS, A PEN-PAL RELATIONSHIP IS IGNITED AND TWO LIVES ARE CHANGED FOREVER.
Jalon Chupp has a past he isn't proud to claim. He's worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his Amish faith. When he receives a sweet note included in a piece of misdirected mail, he can't help but write back. Soon, the letters he receives from Phoebe are the highlights of his days, and with a hopeful heart, he suggests they meet in person.
phoebe, too, looks forward to every one of Jalon's letters. Living with her overbearing aunt, Phoebe doesn't have much to look forward to. Then Jalon suggests they meet, and she panics---although she has shared some of the deepest longings of her heart with him, she hasn't been entirely truthful about her past. But when Jalon shows up at her aunt's doorstep, everything is revealed. And she can only pray he'll forgive her for holding back the truth.
In order to reach beyond the errors of their pasts, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something---or Someone---bigger than either of them could ever pen.
MY REVIEW
What a great way to start a new series, with a wonderful story about changing your life around and having the faith to live that life, learning to share your deepest regrets and leaning on someone else by sharing those past mistakes. Oh YES, I will be watching for the second book to come out! Oh no, I just looked and that won't be until AUGUST!!!! Come on Kathleen, that long, lol, that is a long wait, but I know it will be worth it.
BookLook Bloggers sent me this book in return for my honest review, which I have given.
"Dear Mr. Chupp"---WITH THOSE THREE WORDS, A PEN-PAL RELATIONSHIP IS IGNITED AND TWO LIVES ARE CHANGED FOREVER.
Jalon Chupp has a past he isn't proud to claim. He's worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his Amish faith. When he receives a sweet note included in a piece of misdirected mail, he can't help but write back. Soon, the letters he receives from Phoebe are the highlights of his days, and with a hopeful heart, he suggests they meet in person.
phoebe, too, looks forward to every one of Jalon's letters. Living with her overbearing aunt, Phoebe doesn't have much to look forward to. Then Jalon suggests they meet, and she panics---although she has shared some of the deepest longings of her heart with him, she hasn't been entirely truthful about her past. But when Jalon shows up at her aunt's doorstep, everything is revealed. And she can only pray he'll forgive her for holding back the truth.
In order to reach beyond the errors of their pasts, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something---or Someone---bigger than either of them could ever pen.
MY REVIEW
What a great way to start a new series, with a wonderful story about changing your life around and having the faith to live that life, learning to share your deepest regrets and leaning on someone else by sharing those past mistakes. Oh YES, I will be watching for the second book to come out! Oh no, I just looked and that won't be until AUGUST!!!! Come on Kathleen, that long, lol, that is a long wait, but I know it will be worth it.
BookLook Bloggers sent me this book in return for my honest review, which I have given.
February 12, 2017
Kathleen Fuller has started her new Amish Letters series with a beautiful first novel, Written in Love. It starts off drawing you in with a series of letters between two Amish, Jalon and Phoebe. Phoebe received a misdirected letter that Jalon had mailed and felt the need to return it to him along with a simple note. This started a wonderful pen-pal relationship that develops into something deeper.
Both has past that they want to keep secret until the relationship develops into something more lasting. Jalon has worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes and looks forward to the letters that he receives from Phoebe. Phoebe lives with her overbearing Aenti Bertha and holds their secret letters dear to her heart. But when Jalon suggests they meet in person, she panics because she has not shared everything about her past. Jalon shows up on her Aenti’s doorstep and some of her secrets are reveled.
They must trust each other despite the withholdings and put their trust in God to get them through the upcoming months ahead.
From the start to the finish, I had a hard time putting down the book. Kathleen does a masterful job with character development and it pays off with the reader rooting for everything to work out for them all. I can’t wait until the next novel is released so that I can hopefully read about another character’s story.
I received this book from netgalley in return for providing my honest opinion.
Both has past that they want to keep secret until the relationship develops into something more lasting. Jalon has worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes and looks forward to the letters that he receives from Phoebe. Phoebe lives with her overbearing Aenti Bertha and holds their secret letters dear to her heart. But when Jalon suggests they meet in person, she panics because she has not shared everything about her past. Jalon shows up on her Aenti’s doorstep and some of her secrets are reveled.
They must trust each other despite the withholdings and put their trust in God to get them through the upcoming months ahead.
From the start to the finish, I had a hard time putting down the book. Kathleen does a masterful job with character development and it pays off with the reader rooting for everything to work out for them all. I can’t wait until the next novel is released so that I can hopefully read about another character’s story.
I received this book from netgalley in return for providing my honest opinion.
March 19, 2017
I've never read a Kathleen Fuller book I didn't love. Written in Love is a wonderful addition to my "Kathleen Fuller books I love" list. A unique story told in an original way made this story interesting and riveting. This was a book I just could not put down.
Written in Love tells the story of Phoebe and Jalon who meet when Phoebe accidentally receives a letter Jalon had sent to someone else. The two form a friendship of sorts by becoming pen pals. The book starts out with a series of letters written between the two. I loved the unusual way this story began. It was a neat way of being introduced to the characters and getting to know them.
The storyline of this book is great. I enjoyed the realness of it. Not everything is rosy for these two and this made me like them even more. They struggle with their friendship and different things in their lives but this just made the story more real for me. This book showcases the fact that the Amish don't lead perfect lives and they have struggles and issues just like everyone else.
In her typical way, Kathleen Fuller has written a book with characters who are realistic and a story that is compelling and heart-wrenching. This is a must-read book for fans of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are mine.
Written in Love tells the story of Phoebe and Jalon who meet when Phoebe accidentally receives a letter Jalon had sent to someone else. The two form a friendship of sorts by becoming pen pals. The book starts out with a series of letters written between the two. I loved the unusual way this story began. It was a neat way of being introduced to the characters and getting to know them.
The storyline of this book is great. I enjoyed the realness of it. Not everything is rosy for these two and this made me like them even more. They struggle with their friendship and different things in their lives but this just made the story more real for me. This book showcases the fact that the Amish don't lead perfect lives and they have struggles and issues just like everyone else.
In her typical way, Kathleen Fuller has written a book with characters who are realistic and a story that is compelling and heart-wrenching. This is a must-read book for fans of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are mine.
March 26, 2020
This book had been on my radar a while because the focus looked unique for a Amish romance. The characters in this book deal with some pretty serious life issues such as emotional abuse and alcoholism. In addition, a main character is an unwed mother in the Amish community. The author managed to develop the two main characters very well - they are two lonely souls whose letters were each other’s life line. I loved how the two came to know one another through old-fashioned communication. This book had so much promise, and overall, I liked it, but I felt like the author dragged out the miscommunication of the characters for way too long. I admit that I started to lose interest at times. However, the special part of the book, for me, was discovering how the two characters fell in love through letter correspondence. I just wish their miscommunication hadn’t gone on so long. I loved the emphasis on hope and how everyone deserves love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2017
Written in Love is a pretty good read. I thought it was a unique Amish story. It was interesting how Jalon and Phoebe became pen pals and friends by accident. They have to overcome their past and learn to forgive and move on.
Recommended.
4 stars
Recommended.
4 stars
February 2, 2018
I wasn't very impressed by the ending... It was all way too convenient as every problem was given a solution one after another in the last chapter. Either drag it out or make the heroine stronger...which she really wasn't. It had so much promise and it didn't hold up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2023
Such a great book, interesting story line who knew a miss delivered letter would start a pen pal and friendship too. The struggles of family life, trying to fix things after trails they’ve done though. The characters have a lot of heart and there’s a beautiful depth to the story too.
February 9, 2023
A beautiful love story of God’s forgiveness and second chances. Love blossoms in this story as two people find their past are exactly that…their past. Together they find a way to move forward. It all starts with simply a short letter to the wrong person.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews