An Amish Year: Four Amish Novellas

An Amish Year

by Beth Wiseman

Spend a year in Amish country with four sweet romances.

Rooted in Love

Rosemary Lantz is doing her best to run her family’s household. She excels at all her tasks except one: gardening. Saul Petersheim has pursued Rosemary for years, but Rosemary keeps turning him down. What Saul doesn’t know is that she has good reason—something no one can know—especially not him.

A Love for Irma Rose

The year is 1957, and young Irma Rose has a choice to make. Marry the man who loves her? Or go after Jonas, the high-spirited, yet noncommittal man her heart loves?

Patchwork Perfect

Eli Byler has been a widower for two years when he chooses to make a fresh start in Paradise, Pennsylvania. Eli’s children are determined to keep their family the way it is, but they aren’t in Paradise long before the available ladies begin to show an interest in Eli.

As Eli juggles the admiration of two women, he meets Miriam Fisher—the most unconventional Amish woman he’s ever met. She doesn’t fit the mold for what Eli is looking for, but it isn’t long before Eli realizes that Miriam is everything he wants. But with two children constantly trying to sabotage his efforts, will he ever be happy again?

When Christmas Comes Again

Katherine knows the first Christmas without Elias will be hard for her and the children. But when a mysterious Englischer appears with photographs of her late husband, Katherine begins to wonder what other blessings Christmas could have in store.

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

Unknown Binding

First published December 8, 2015

About the author

"I wish I had the time to review books and chat with you here, but my writing deadlines just don't allow it. Please like my Fans of Beth Wiseman Page on Facebook where I try to post any news and interact with readers."
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.

You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman

Reviews

[Diamond Jones-Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading each story on this book! If you would like to read each review. You can find them under each book on here.

Happy reading!

[Mayda · Rating 3 out of 5]

These stand-alone novellas will take readers though the seasons of the year. Because they are novellas, the plots aren’t as fully involved and the characters not as fully developed as they might have been had each of them been a full-sized novel. Readers will undoubtedly like some stories more than the rest, and will wish those tales had been longer. And while some storylines seem quite plausible, the last tale included stretched too far into the unbelievable category. Still, it was a quick and enjoyable collection.

[Karla]

"An Amish Year"
By Beth Wiseman

Synopsis:

Spend a year in Amish country with four sweet romances.
Rooted in Love (previously published in An Amish Garden)
Rosemary Lantz is doing her best to run her family’s household. She excels at all her tasks except one: gardening. Saul Petersheim has pursued Rosemary for years, but Rosemary keeps turning him down. What Saul doesn’t know is that she has good reason—something no one can know—especially not him.
A Love for Irma Rose
The year is 1957, and young Irma Rose has a choice to make. Date the man who is “right” for her? Or give Jonas a chance, the wild and reckless suitor who refuses to take no for an answer? Irma Rose steps onto the path she believes God has planned for her, but when she loses her footing, she is forced to rethink her choice.
Patchwork Perfect
Eli Byler has been a widower for two years when he chooses to make a fresh start in Paradise, Pennsylvania. As Eli juggles the admiration of two women, he meets Miriam Fisher—the most unconventional Amish woman he’s ever met. She doesn’t fit the mold for what Eli is looking for, but it isn’t long before Eli realizes that Miriam is everything he wants. But Miriam has no plans to get married—ever. Will Eli be able to change her mind?
When Christmas Comes Again (previously published in An Amish Second Christmas)
Katherine knows the first Christmas without Elias will be hard for her and the children. But when a mysterious Englischer appears with photographs of her late husband, Katherine begins to wonder what other blessings Christmas could have in store.

My Thoughts:

I must admit that when I hear that a new Beth Wiseman book is going to be released, I feel great anticipation and have the expectation that this book will be the best yet!! I am NEVER disappointed! This collection of novellas was certainly no exception. It met every one of my criteria for a well written book! Although, novellas are not my favorites, as they seem too short and don't satisfy my yearning for a complete story, Beth managed to create one that was so full of hope, love and faith that the stories engaged me from beginning to end. The Amish recipes that are added, are just the icing on the cake!

The characters are so realistically described that you easily identify with them and live their trials, challenges and joys right along side them. Beth uses her unique talent of inserting little quirky, humorous qualities into these folks that make them appealing to all readers. When you start to give them advice, you realize that the story must be exceptionally well written!!

The plots are full of unexpected twists and turns that keep a reader intrigued until the last page is read. I must admit that I still wanted each story to keep going! That is evidence that this is ONE GREAT READ! As the novellas moved through the seasons, each one flowed smoothly into the next.

My favorite one, if I had to choose , would be "A Love For Irma Rose, as she was a character in a previous Beth Wiseman book. She had become a near and dear friend to me and I had wanted to know more about her. This short story met my need to find out .

Beth Wiseman is a talented author who continues to surprise us with very different, unique books in the Amish fiction genre. Magnificent books exemplifying her talent in leaving within us , feelings of love, hope and peace.

This book was supplied by the author, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rooted in Love

Rosemary Lantz is doing her best to run her family's household. She excels at all her tasks except one: gardening. Saul Petersheim has pursued Rosemary for years, but Rosemary keeps turning him down. What Saul doesn't know is that she has good reason--something no one can know--especially not him.

Good story. Rosemary and Saul had dated when they were teens, until Rosemary abruptly broke things off. Now she takes care of her widowed father and her three brothers, and dreams of what might have been. Saul has never given up on the love he felt for her and keeps asking her out. When Rosemary's dad and Sauk are injured in an accident, Saul insists on helping out, in spite of his own injuries, hoping for another chance.

I loved Saul. He's true in his love for Rosemary and doesn't give up, even when it seems hopeless. His sense of honor insists on him helping out because he was the one who caused her father's injuries. It was a bit amusing to see that he didn't handle his own injury too well.

I had a bit more trouble with Rosemary. She doesn't treat Katherine very well because she's jealous of what appears to be the other woman's perfect life. I admired the way that she has taken care of her family since her mother's death, especially since she is often overwhelmed by it all. But she is also a little bitter about having missed out on the husband and children she wants. She is still in love with Saul, but doesn't treat him very well. The reason she broke things off haunts her, and she wonders if it was worth the loss of the man she loves.

I got pretty frustrated with her because she was so inconsistent with her treatment of Saul. I was glad to see her talk to her friend about what happened and that it gave her the motivation to actually talk to him about it. When she finally got up the courage to do so, it was to find that it had been a misunderstanding of what she heard. If she had only taken the time to talk to him about it, so much time wouldn't have been lost. However, I liked Saul's philosophical look on the lost years.

There was also a secondary story involving Rosemary's dad, Wayne, and Katherine. Rosemary's treatment of Katherine nearly ruined the blossoming of their romance. I ached for both Wayne and Katherine and their unhappiness. I was happy to see Rosemary see her mistakes and try to fix things.


A Love for Irma Rose

The year is 1957, and young Irma Rose has a choice to make. Marry the man who loves her? Or go after Jonas, the high-spirited, yet noncommittal man her heart loves?

Good story. Irma Rose is sixteen and finally old enough to date. She has two young men who are pursuing her. Jake, an upright, serious and handsome fellow. And Jonas, a rascal of a guy with a taste for speed and cigars. She feels that she's being led toward Jake, otherwise why would her hands be clammy and her stomach churn around Jonas? But Jonas won't give up, even when she chooses to date Jake instead. She thinks she has her life all planned, but something happens that has her rethinking.

I really liked Jonas. Yes, he's a bit reckless and wild at times, but he's also steady and loving. He had first seen Irma Rose three years earlier and knew right then that she was the girl for him. He just had to be patient. I enjoyed his confidence that things would eventually work out. His father died three years ago, leaving Jonas to take care of his mother and four sisters. He works hard and sometimes makes poor choices when he gets a chance to take a break. In this story he ends up with some Englischers who are arrested for drag racing and drinking. Because he can't pay the fine, he ends up in jail for two weeks, just after his mother is hospitalized.

I liked Irma Jean too, though she seemed to be a bit hard on Jonas. She was so intent on dating Jake that I had to laugh a little over the date itself. It didn't go quite as she expected. She is a kind person at heart, and when Jonas's mother is in the hospital, she's one of the people that brings food to help the family. When she goes back later and discovers the girls there alone, she steps right in to help. It was fun to see the things she learned about Jonas from his sister (always a good source).

Both Irma Jean and Jonas learn something about themselves and their choices during this story. I liked seeing Jonas realize that he's in control of his own life and his choices affect more than just himself. Irma Jean discovered that perhaps she likes a little more adventure in her life than she thought. I also liked that she realized she was still pretty young and didn't need to decide her whole life right away. I loved the segment at the end showing she and Jonas as grandparents.

There was also an interesting bit between Jonas and his cellmate, when Theo was talking about his life. Jonas tried to help him. It turned out that there was an unexpected connection between the two of them. I liked knowing what happened to Theo after he got out of jail too.


Patchwork Perfect

Eli Byler has been a widower for two years when he chooses to make a fresh start in Paradise, Pennsylvania. Eli's children are determined to keep their family the way it is, but they aren't in Paradise long before the available ladies begin to show an interest in Eli. As Eli juggles the admiration of two women, he meets Miriam Fisher--the most unconventional Amish woman he's ever met. She doesn't fit the mold for what Eli is looking for, but it isn't long before Eli realizes that Miriam is everything he wants. But with two children constantly trying to sabotage his efforts, will he ever be happy again?

This was a good story. Eli has moved to Paradise with his two children two years after his wife's death. He wants to marry again, but his district is small with few available women. Two widows, Ruth and Elizabeth, notice him right away and make their interest plain. He also meets another woman, Miriam, who is nothing like he expects. She has made it plain to everyone that she doesn't intend to marry. He is fascinated by her, even though she doesn't cook, garden, or do the other things expected of an Amish woman.

It was fun to see Eli trying to find his way through the dating world. Both widows are appealing to him at first look. But a meal with each of them shows him that perhaps they aren't quite what he's looking for. It doesn't help anything that neither of his children is exactly enthusiastic about the prospect of a new mother.

Eli's daughter Grace is having her own problems. At almost sixteen, she's caught the eye of Wayne, a seventeen year old with a reputation as a heartbreaker. She's happy about his attention, until he starts to want more than she's willing to give. Several times they are interrupted by Miriam, who knows Wayne's reputation. Grace soon realizes that Miriam is someone she can go to for help if she needs it, and she soon does.

I loved Miriam's understanding and compassion when she talks to Grace. She opens up a little to Grace, sharing some things about herself that helps the girl. I liked how she talks to Eli for Grace, and his own understanding about Miriam comes out of that talk. I loved how Eli showed Miriam that she too deserves a chance to be happy.


When Christmas Comes Again

Katherine knows the first Christmas without Elias will be hard for her and the children. But when a mysterious Englischer appears with photographs of her late husband, Katherine begins to wonder what other blessings Christmas could have in store.

Good story, though not a romantic one. Katherine and her children are all having a hard time dealing with their grief after Elias's death. Katherine is a little disturbed when a strange man starts following her around. Then he delivers a box of photographs of her husband and she and the children, with an invitation to meet for coffee so he can explain. Who he is comes as a surprise to her, and she continues to meet with him.

Mary Carol and her boyfriend Abe meet the same man at an abandoned farmhouse. There is something about him that Mary Carol finds interesting, and the two befriend the man.

I liked how James had such insight into the grief they felt and an amazing sense of how each would deal with it best. I also enjoyed his stories and wondered, along with the others, how much of it was true. His actions were occasionally bizarre and I had a feeling there was a story behind them. I loved the ending, with the way that the family embraced him.

[Neisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was hard deciding what to rate this. I felt bad since my dad bought me this book and two of the stories I've read before which was disappointing. The stories aren't bad I just felt excited to read them and was surprised that the author would repeat herself! I always have loved these little short story books but her repeating that same story about the couple that coordinates with a book series of hers just felt like she's just trying to advertise her series as much as she can in as many books instead of actually writing new short stories. The one story I did enjoy was the quilt one. One of the main characters is the same age as me and felt really relatable. For once the Amish people felt more realistic as in more down to earth so I really enjoyed that story. It's what prompted me to give it the rating.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rooted in Love (previously published in An Amish Garden)
Rosemary Lantz is doing her best to run her family’s household. She excels at all her tasks except one: gardening. Saul Petersheim has pursued Rosemary for years, but Rosemary keeps turning him down. What Saul doesn’t know is that she has good reason—something no one can know—especially not him.

My thoughts: I read Rooted in Love in An Amish Garden, but I didn't remember it, so I reread it. Saul is stubborn, proud, and just like a man, ignores his injuries--he's also somewhat of a wimp and can't handle seeing his arm all torn up from an accident. Rosemary is opinionated and holds the power of hurting several people in her hands. When she discovers long held beliefs are not true is she strong enough to change her opinion? Apologize? I loved Saul's tenacity and how he is so willing to serve Rosie and her family despite his physical and emotional pain. A good novella with a garden theme. 4 stars.
A Love for Irma Rose
The year is 1957, and young Irma Rose has a choice to make. Date the man who is “right” for her? Or give Jonas a chance, the wild and reckless suitor who refuses to take no for an answer? Irma Rose steps onto the path she believes God has planned for her, but when she loses her footing, she is forced to rethink her choice.

My thoughts: This was a cute story. More telling than showing at first, but it picked up about midway through. Jonas was a lovable rascal and Irma Rose is the love of his life--but she doesn't know it. Instead she's dating someone else. When Jonas's mother ends up in the hospital with a bad ulcer things change and not for the better. I enjoyed these two characters and it is the prequel to Ms. Wiseman's best selling family saga series, Daughters of the Promise. 4.5 stars.
Patchwork Perfect
Eli Byler has been a widower for two years when he chooses to make a fresh start in Paradise, Pennsylvania. As Eli juggles the admiration of two women, he meets Miriam Fisher—the most unconventional Amish woman he’s ever met. She doesn’t fit the mold for what Eli is looking for, but it isn’t long before Eli realizes that Miriam is everything he wants. But Miriam has no plans to get married—ever. Will Eli be able to change her mind?

My thoughts: This story was fairly predictable, but good. I enjoyed getting to know Miriam and glad Eli knows his own mind and isn't willing to settle for just anyone. The way it ended was sweet, but as someone who is also allergic to cats I wondered how they would work out that hurdle. The side story about Grace and her boyfriend included a good message teenage girls need to hear. 4 stars.
When Christmas Comes Again (previously published in An Amish Second Christmas)
Katherine knows the first Christmas without Elias will be hard for her and the children. But when a mysterious Englischer appears with photographs of her late husband, Katherine begins to wonder what other blessings Christmas could have in store.

My thoughts: When Christmas Comes Again wasn't technically a romance, though Katherine's oldest daughter has a beau. It was women's fiction. I enjoyed getting to know Katherine and hearing some of the details of her deceased husband's life--that he didn't even know. I enjoyed reading this story. Ms. Wiseman's writing talents shine with women's fiction. 4.5 stars.

I enjoy these collections of four Amish novellas that Thomas Nelson has begun putting out. And I was so excited when this collection came up for review with Booklook. I was glad when it arrived as I was anxious to read it.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most of the time, we simply don't have the time to read a full length novel but wish we had the time. The perfect solution for those situations is to get a hold of a collection of your favorite genres all combined in one book in the form of novellas or simply short novels. For me, Beth Wiseman is definite a favorite author and whenever I see her name, I know I am in for a great novel or in this case a great collection of novellas in particular to the Amish Romance genre in An Amish Year.

This is a collection of four novellas that bring about the changing seasons in the life of the Amish people we read about in each of the short novellas to bring us full circle in a calendar year. You'll find Rooted in Love, about Rosemary Lantz who like most Amish excels in everything, except gardening and it will take the hard work of Saul Petersheim to try and win her heart but helping her out with learning to garden. In A Love for Irma Rose, this one takes us back to 1957 when Irma Rose needs to decide which man is the right choice for her. Does she take a chance on the one who she believes is right for her or the one who seems a bit on the wild side? Patchwork Perfect chances places from the previous story and puts Eli Byler at the heart of picking which woman would be best suited for him as a widower, Miriam Fisher who is unconventional when it comes to an Amish woman who makes him second guess all his choices for what he believes he wants in a wife. Finally in When Christmas Comes Again, Katherine has to learn how to navigate recent waters of being a single parent when she faces the loss of her husband and must find a way to bring joy back into Christmas for her children, but will it be an English man that turns her head and heart?

I received An Amish Year by Beth Wiseman compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation. For me, what I loved the most is at the conclusion of these novellas, there is a note from Beth telling you where you can find more of the full-length novels dealing with the families you meet in these novellas. This makes that need to finish learning more about what happens next easier to navigate and gives the reader a true sample of the stories you are likely to find. For me, it simply means I need to work on updating my 'must read' list with the ones I found and fell in love with in this collection. Well worth all 5 out of 5 stars in this book lover's heart.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four short Amish stories to stir your faith and breath hope into your soul. I loved all 4.

Rooted in Love Miscommunication along with misunderstanding keep Saul and Rosemary at arms length when they are so attracted to each other. Rosemary with much on her plate due to her mother's passing also misses an opportunity for her father to know love again. A lesson on the value of communication and what we miss because of misunderstanding. It is in these misunderstanding, we can see how God works out the good for those that love him and seek his will.

A Love for Irma Rose Jonas has always known he would marry Irma Rose. Unfortunately, Irma does not know the same information. Jonas pursues her with respect and kindness and Irma is sure that they are not meant to be. However, when circumstances lead for Irma to serve Jonas family, she finds herself falling for him.

Patchwork Perfect Eli's has moved his family to another Amish community after his wife passing. With two children, he hopes to find championship and love again. His daughter Grace has found a friend that wants more than she wants to give him. The community old maid Merriam comes to the rescue of Grace however, will she find happiness for herself with Eli. Merriam's lesson is for us all as she comes to forgive herself to allow herself to love again.

When Christmas Comes Again Katherine is overcoming the sudden death of her husband and helping her three children cope with the loss of their father. When a stranger leaves a note that answers questions from her late husbands past, she meets the stranger at the local coffee shop. The stranger is her long lost father-n-law that abandoned her husband's family many years ago. What does he want? And can he bring healing to his son's broken family. I loved how this all came together. It was a redeeming story that reminds us all things can be redeemed.

A Special Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four lovely stories by Beth Wiseman.

Rosemary and Paul get a second chance at love, when Paul refuses to give up on her, and continues to respectfully pursue her. And is there to help when her family needs it most.

Jonas has loved Irma Rose since the first time that he saw her, but she thinks his ways are too wild for her. But God uses his out of the box thinking for good, could it perhaps bring them back together?

Patchwork Perfect, was my favorite story of the four. Miriam used to babysit for the young people of the community and she still stays in touch with most of the kids. Eli and Grace's father is a widower looking for a wife, and everyone knows it, leading to some hilarious situations.

The last story is a touching Christmas tale of Katherine a widow with four children, and James Zook shows up out of the blue helping them heal and entertaining them with crazy tall tales.

Overall, a fantastic collection. The stories are not related, though each happens in a different part of the year in a different season. A wonderful read, with great touching stories, of love and friendship.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I don't really care for novellas. I much prefer a "full-length" book that I can really sink my teeth into and get to know the characters and become immersed in their lives. As a reviewer, I have read a lot of novellas this year and this collection from Beth Wiseman is at the top of the list. I really enjoyed these four stories.

Each story is well-written. There are great character development and a great plot in each. Nothing felt rushed in these stories as is often the case in novellas. I felt like I got to know the characters and become a part of their lives. Each story is special in its own way making it impossible to pick a favorite. These stories are quick and easy reads and thoroughly enjoyable.

Any fan of Amish fiction will enjoy these stories. This would also be a nice introduction into the genre. A perfect collection of stories to delight a reader's heart!

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

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best-selling author Beth Wiseman puts four stories of loss and love into one book. These stories grab your attention from the first page.

You’ll enjoy reading how Saul Petersheim tries to win back the heart of Rosemary Lantz. Jonas Miller competes for the affection of Irma Rose Kauffman. Widower Eli Byler moves to a larger district to find a wife. Widow Katherine Zook’s strange reunion with James Zook. He left his Amish life, his wife and son (Katherine’s husband) over thirty years ago. What was he doing back now?

Pick up a copy of this well written book and read about these people and their lives. You’ll be glad you did!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

AN AMISH YEAR is four novellas all written by very well known Amish genre author, Beth Wiseman.

In Rooted in Love , Rosemary dated Saul when they were younger, but one day she just ends it without telling Saul why. Saul tells her Daed that he will help with their family garden since Rosemary has no time to do it. While doing that Saul spends more time with Rosemary and tries to get to the root of why she walked away from him. When you find out the real reason, you won’t believe it. Saul has never given up on Rosemary and keeps asking her out much to Rosemary’s surprise. Will he ever give up?

A Love for Irma Rose is a wonderful story. Irma Rose is 16 years old and finally old enough to date. Her problem is should she choose the boy who has captured her heart or the boy who everyone thinks is perfect for her. When things go wrong for Jonas’ family, Irma Rose serves his family and she finds herself seeing Jonas in A whole new light. Get ready for a little mystery and maybe a little bit of romance in this heart warming story.

Patchwork Perfect is a great read with wonderful characters that you will instantly connect with. Eli has moved to Paradise, Pennsylvania for a fresh start after becoming a widower two years ago. Soon he has the attention of two women, but he isn’t sure if either of them would make him a happy man. Then he meets Miriam and is smitten with her right away. Miriam has no desire to get married, but Eli can’t help but think he might be able to change her mind. But with two children constantly trying to ruin his efforts, will he ever be happy again? They are determined to keep their family just the way it is.

When Christmas Comes Again is a compelling story that is surrounded by mystery. Katherine is just trying to navigate life as a single parent after losing her husband, Elias. She is trying to bring some joy back into her children’s lives for Christmas but she is struggling. Then she meets a stranger who has pictures of Elias. I won’t say who this man is, but he helps the family heal with wonderful stories about Elias. This is a great story that will keep readers glued to their seats.

AN AMISH YEAR is a wonderful collection of novellas by one of my favorite authors, Beth Wiseman. I loved catching up on characters that I grew to love and making new friends. AN AMISH YEAR is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys inspirational Amish fiction. This is definitely a book I would re-read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Tess Mertens-Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book with four novellas contained dealing with Amish life.
At these stressful times of the holidays, the government and sexual abuse with people of power running rampant, I found this book very refreshing.
”Rooted in Love” had to do with communication and lost love, which anyone can relate to. Rosemary overheard a conversation in error about a different Saul than the one who she felt was her soul mate. We have all heard something wrong and been in the same situation
“A Love for Irma Rose” dealt with Irma finding her true love, not who others thought she should be with.
“Patchwork Perfect” dealt with a family whose patriarch was looking, or being sought after, as a spouse after his wife’s passing. The end had a twist that made me realize you need to get to know someone before you pass judgment.
“When Christmas Come Again” dealt with the death of a father and the return of a grandfather. There was a great lesson in forgiveness that came through
All four novellas were very heartwarming and great Christmas read
And the recipes in the back were good!

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly like the author, Beth Wiseman. Every book or novella is always an enjoyable read . You can count on it.

And the same holds true for this set of novellas , each taking part in a different time of the year – thus the title.

I could end this review right now because all four stories were gut. But I especially love the first story and the last story in this book . it's one of those cases where I would've liked to of been there.

Oh, and for people who want to write novellas – read these. Study these. Diagram these. Because these are good novellas . Nothing feels cut off . Characters are not left undeveloped . There is a true ending. if you, writer, produce Novellas like these – they will get read. And published.

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book of four stories--all very good.
I had previously read the fourth story so I didn't read it again.
In the first, a boy keeps persuing a girl who seems to want
nothing to do with him but he suspects that she does have an
interest in at some level.
Another story is about a widower, teenage daughter, & ten year
old son in a new community. The father asks a woman out but
gets turned down flat. He dates a sec0nd who has different
methods of discipline that he disagrees with. A third, widow
is still grieving her dead husband & not ready for a relationship.
Meanwhile, his daughter is dating a boy who won't take "no"
for an answer.

[Carolyn Daniels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four different novellas. Some very different. A father who had left his family years before and put in protective custody. He comes back to his son’s widow as he is dying and meets his grandchildren.
Another, a widower changes districts to try to find wife and mother for his children. One one beautiful but couldn’t cook and was not over her husband’s deaths, number two could cook but had a bunch of kids and widower did not like the way she discipled her kids. The one he married was an “old maid” who told herself she would never marry because of some indiscretions as a young woman. His daughter loved her.

[Linda M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart Warmers

I have enjoyed these stories so much; I can’t wait to read to read more of Beth’s works.
I was with my mother before she was having surgery for colon cancer. She told me she dreamt her brother, my Uncle Bert, who had already passed on had come to her he was waiting for her. As she breathed her last he was there holding out his hand to her. Before she took his hand she turned smiled at me and waved. Then she turned took his hand and crossed over into Heaven. I have the assurance she will be there to take my hand when it is my time to cross over to Heaven and take me to see my JESUS. ❤️

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not normally a fan of Novellas. I find them to often not be well developed. I really enjoyed these four however. The first one was especially good, giving a complete and fleshed out story despite the shortness of it. My least favorite was the final story. I think it may have been written earlier than the others as it wasn't quite as good as well written. It took me maybe an hour per story so this is great for those shorter reading moments.

[James Pate · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amish Year contains four novellas about the Amish. The stories get better as the book proceeds.

Allow me to comment on each novella.

A. The first story is “Rooted in Love.” Saul is an eligible bachelor and has pursued Rosemary for years. Rosemary is attracted to Saul, but she does not want to marry him because she believes that he is infertile. This story was all right. Not great, but all right. I liked that Saul was carrying a torch for Rosemary.

B. The second story is “A Love for Irma Rose.” This was a better story than the previous one. This story is set in the 1950s. Jonas has been smitten with Irma Rose ever since he first saw her sitting under an oak tree reading a book. Jonas comes across as confident in that he keeps telling Irma Rose that they will be married. Deep down, though, he is not sure if she even likes him. Irma Rose is uncomfortable with Jonas’ presumption, and she is pursuing a romance with Jake. Jake is a pillar of the community, but Irma Rose finds him a bit boring.

Jonas ends up in jail after drinking alcohol with the English. Irma Rose is taking care of Jonas’ mother and brings Jonas pies in jail. Jonas’ cellmate is a cocky, cynical Englishman (meaning a non-Amish person) named Theodore, whose father is rich. Theodore may actually know Irma Rose. If so, how?

The resolution was rather lackluster, in my opinion. Still, I enjoyed the story. One reason is that it is sweet. I found it particularly moving that Beth Wiseman introduced this story by quoting from a scene in one of her books, in which an elderly Jonas visits Irma Rose’s gravesite. Theodore’s honesty added realism to the story.

Also, a discussion between Theodore and Jonas about whether people are inherently bad made me curious about the Amish belief regarding original sin. It puzzled me that Theodore was saying that humans are inherently untrustworthy, whereas Jonas, speaking as a Christian, was asserting the contrary. You would think that a Christian would agree that humans are inherently corrupt! I read on page 100 of John E. Toew’s The Story of Original Sin (2013), however, that the Anabaptists reject the doctrine of original sin and do not believe that the sin of Adam and Eve made humans naturally corrupt. The Amish are an Anabaptist sect.

One area of critique: At the end of the book, Wiseman shares recipes of food that was in her stories. But there was no recipe in that section about shoofly pies, which Irma Rose brought to Jonas in jail, and which the guards liked to eat!

C. The third story was even better than the previous one. It is entitled “Patchwork Perfect.”

Eli Byler is a widower. He has a daughter named Grace and a son named Ben. Eli is admired by two women: Elizabeth, who is recovering from the death of her husband, and an attractive widow named Ruth, who has had her share of admirers. Eli is intrigued, however, by Miriam, who turned him down when he asked her to dinner. Miriam is unusual. She is in her thirties and has not yet married. She does not cook or clean. She plays softball. Rumor has it that she has a lot of cats.

Miriam is a mentor to the girls in the area, in that she looks out for them. She is concerned about Eli’s daughter Grace because Grace has been hanging out with Wayne. Wayne is pressuring Grace to go further in the relationship than Grace would like to go, and Wayne has a reputation as a heartbreaker.

I liked this story because I appreciate romances in which one of the people is an odd duck and this actually enhances the relationship, maybe because I am an odd duck myself. I also liked that there was good even in Wayne, who comforted Ben about the death of Ben’s mother.

D. The fourth story was even better than the previous one! It is entitled “When Christmas Comes Again.”

Katherine is mourning the death of her husband Elias. A mysterious Englishman (again, that means a non-Amish person) has photos of her late husband. This Englishman is Elias’ father, who left the family years earlier. He says that his name is Paul, then he says that it is James, but he goes by James. James is an eccentric old man. He does not always seem to be all there. He talks about being in the witness protection program, being a federal agent, and having connections with the White House. He says that a red car keeps following him.

James has coffee regularly with Katherine. And, unbeknownst to Katherine, James also gets to know Katherine’s daughter Mary Carol and her boyfriend Abe. James gives the family advice that helps them to move on after Elias’ death.

The story is intriguing. I was anticipating the scene in which Katherine would learn that Mary Carol already knew James. There is also the question of why James left his family years earlier. And why does he seem so odd? How much of his story is true, and is any of it delusional on his part?

This novella should also teach a lesson about good manners, especially to those who love Amish books. In one scene, a lady who reads Amish books in a bookclub asks Katherine if Amish women shave their legs. Katherine does not appreciate this inappropriate question!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher through Booklook Bloggers, in exchange for an honest review.

[Susan L. Curtin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many Mysteries, Much Love

All four of these stories captivated me. I read them all in two sittings.

All of the stories had happy endings too.

Sometimes it took longer for a couple to find true romance. Gossip also took romance through a detour.

It was sad when the book ended. I hope you'll enjoy this book as much as I have.

[Larisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Beth Wiseman's Amish books.

She is able to pull you into the stories with interesting characters and storylines. Her novellas took me through a host of emotions from sympathy to out loud laughter.

All four of these stories endeared me to her writing style. I read this collection all in two sittings.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 sweet novellas stretching in time from the 50's up to now. Tales of romance, precious memories and a good picture of the Amish way of life in Lancaster, PA. I like Beth Wiseman's writing style - she's not overly preachy, like Wanda Brunstetter can get from time to time. I look forward to my next Wiseman book!

[Yang Hu · Rating 3 out of 5]

An OK romantic novel (4 stories in total): the 4th one is well written, first one is cute. Rest a bit awkward to read. Anyhow quick easy read and able to learn some interesting aspects about Amish life.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read this for a challenge thing with my friends. These were fine. The last one was wild and all over the place and I didn’t like the way the women talked about. I was living for all the sass and judgmental-ness of the female characters though.

[Mae Velazquez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read it because of "A Love for Irma Rose"; which I loved. While the other 2 were written very well, I fell in love with the last story in the book "When Christmas Comes Again".

[Massanutten Regional Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julia, Central patron, July 2017, 5 stars:

A book of four novellas. Perfect for a hot summer afternoon.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I especially loved, "When Christmas Comes Again."

[ANNETTE · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read, all 4stories real good.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love these 4 stores in this book!! Only thing i wish it would of continued cause i didnt want it to end BUT I'm glad all 4 of the stories ended on a good note :)

[Allie · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many Amish people in love!! I loved it.