What do you think?
Rate this book
Andrew, Abraham, and Austin Petersheim's family business has earned them the nickname The Peanut Butter Brothers. But if their matchmaking younger siblings have their way, all three may soon bear another title: husband . . .
Handsome, hardworking, and godly, Andrew Petersheim has always been sure of his place in his Wisconsin Amish community. He'll be a welcome catch for the local girl who finally captures his heart. Mary Coblenz certainly isn't that girl. Two years after "jumping the fence" for the Englischer world, she's returned, unmarried and pregnant. Yet instead of hiding in shame as others in the community expect, she's working at the Honeybee Farm, ignoring the gossips--and winning over Andrew's eight-year-old twin brothers . . .
For all Andrew's certainty about right and wrong, it seems he has a lot to learn from Mary's courage, grace, and resilience. She's changing his notions about forgiveness and love, but will she in turn accept the challenge of starting over and choose to stay--with him?
Praise for Jennifer Beckstrand and her Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series
"Full of kind, sincere characters struggling with the best ways to stay true to themselves and their beliefs." --Publishers Weekly
"A heart-warming story of faith, hope, and second chances. The story will captivate readers who love the Amish culture and enjoy an endearing romance."
--Amy Clipston, bestselling author of A Place at Our Table
Handsome, hardworking, and godly, Andrew Petersheim has always been sure of his place in his Wisconsin Amish community. He'll be a welcome catch for the local girl who finally captures his heart. Mary Coblenz certainly isn't that girl. Two years after "jumping the fence" for the Englischer world, she's returned, unmarried and pregnant. Yet instead of hiding in shame as others in the community expect, she's working at the Honeybee Farm, ignoring the gossips--and winning over Andrew's eight-year-old twin brothers . . .
For all Andrew's certainty about right and wrong, it seems he has a lot to learn from Mary's courage, grace, and resilience. She's changing his notions about forgiveness and love, but will she in turn accept the challenge of starting over and choose to stay--with him?
Praise for Jennifer Beckstrand and her Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series
"Full of kind, sincere characters struggling with the best ways to stay true to themselves and their beliefs." --Publishers Weekly
"A heart-warming story of faith, hope, and second chances. The story will captivate readers who love the Amish culture and enjoy an endearing romance."
--Amy Clipston, bestselling author of A Place at Our Table
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published June 25, 2019
161 people are currently reading
1386 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Beckstrand
58 books883 followersJennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, The Honeybee Sisters series, The Petersheim Brothers series and The Amish Quiltmaker series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Her sweet romantic Western series, Cowboys of the Butterfly Ranch, features feisty heroines and tough-as-nails cowboys sprinkled with Jennifer’s trademark humor and happy endings. Maggie and Max is the third book in that series. Dandelion Meadows is her new, sweet small-town romance series, set in a quirky little town in Idaho. Jennifer has written thirty-eight Amish romances, three sweet romantic Westerns, two sweet contemporaries, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. Jennifer is a member of ACFW and is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency. She and her husband have been married thirty-nine years, and she has six children and eleven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
May 23, 2020
$1.99 e-book https://amzn.to/3bZIaWM
(5/23/20)
This book was absolutely delightful!!! The show was totally stolen by Andrew's eight year old brothers, Alfie and Benji, who are the most entertaining matchmakers ever! Their perspective and hilariously clever antics were my favorite parts that had me smiling and giggling out loud. Mary's confusing presence in Andrew's life challenges the way he thinks and even though he tries to avoid dealing with his conflicting feelings, his little brothers make sure he keeps having interactions with Mary. As he stumbles through his journey of enlightenment on judgement, repentance, and forgiveness, he also learns from Mary's example about compassion, kindness, understanding, and love. Mary also sees the goodness in Andrew and his genuine efforts to reconcile traditional Amish ways with putting into action the teachings of Christ. It's a slow-growing sweet romance, with nice character arcs for both Andrew and Mary, and an amazing supporting cast with Mary's champion Aunt Bitsy (from the Honeybee Sisters series) and Andrew's sincere yet incorrigible brothers.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(5/23/20)
This book was absolutely delightful!!! The show was totally stolen by Andrew's eight year old brothers, Alfie and Benji, who are the most entertaining matchmakers ever! Their perspective and hilariously clever antics were my favorite parts that had me smiling and giggling out loud. Mary's confusing presence in Andrew's life challenges the way he thinks and even though he tries to avoid dealing with his conflicting feelings, his little brothers make sure he keeps having interactions with Mary. As he stumbles through his journey of enlightenment on judgement, repentance, and forgiveness, he also learns from Mary's example about compassion, kindness, understanding, and love. Mary also sees the goodness in Andrew and his genuine efforts to reconcile traditional Amish ways with putting into action the teachings of Christ. It's a slow-growing sweet romance, with nice character arcs for both Andrew and Mary, and an amazing supporting cast with Mary's champion Aunt Bitsy (from the Honeybee Sisters series) and Andrew's sincere yet incorrigible brothers.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
June 29, 2019
Andrew
Jennifer Beckstrand
Andrew by Jennifer Beckstrand is the first book in her Petersheim Brothers series. Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and this Amish romance did not disappoint.
Andrew is the eldest of the Petersheim brothers, fondly known as the Peanut Butter Brothers, so named because of the family business. Andrew views himself as a righteous man and strives to live by the strict rules that govern every aspect of Amish life. Mary Coblenz “jumped the fence” and escaped to the English world, but has just returned to her Amish community pregnant and unwed. Andrew and Mary have a great deal of soul searching to do before they can accept any relationship beyond friendship, but they have help in the form of Andrew’s eight-year-old twin brothers, Alfie and Benji.
Andrew is a really good read. Ms. Beckstrand has given us a wonderful cast of characters. The twins are especially hilarious. The writing flows smoothly, and there’s just the right amount of conflict. This novel is 5 out of 5 stars for me. I recommend this book to all readers of Amish fiction, especially Amish romance.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Jennifer Beckstrand
Andrew by Jennifer Beckstrand is the first book in her Petersheim Brothers series. Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and this Amish romance did not disappoint.
Andrew is the eldest of the Petersheim brothers, fondly known as the Peanut Butter Brothers, so named because of the family business. Andrew views himself as a righteous man and strives to live by the strict rules that govern every aspect of Amish life. Mary Coblenz “jumped the fence” and escaped to the English world, but has just returned to her Amish community pregnant and unwed. Andrew and Mary have a great deal of soul searching to do before they can accept any relationship beyond friendship, but they have help in the form of Andrew’s eight-year-old twin brothers, Alfie and Benji.
Andrew is a really good read. Ms. Beckstrand has given us a wonderful cast of characters. The twins are especially hilarious. The writing flows smoothly, and there’s just the right amount of conflict. This novel is 5 out of 5 stars for me. I recommend this book to all readers of Amish fiction, especially Amish romance.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
June 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this first story in the Petersheim Brothers' series. These characters really leapt off the page and left me wanting to learn more about the other boys now...
October 2, 2020
A heart-warming story of faith, hope, and second chances. The story will captivate readers who love the Amish culture and enjoy an endearing romance.
January 24, 2020
I'm somewhat suspicious that kids get so much leeway and nobody orders them to sit down and behave. Two mischievous young boys decide a single expectant mother would be good to pair off with their older brother. Nobody in the Amish community would welcome such a match - this young woman Mary was let down by a boyfriend while she was outside, in education. But she's living and working with the beekeepers, and the youngsters keep arranging meetings between her and their brother.
We are asked to consider contemporary and traditional roles and expectations, and shown that the holiest of people can be cold and judgemental.
I enjoyed the setting details, lively outings, and the imposition of grandparents on a family when the seniors have to move in for health reasons.
I was sent an e-ARC by Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
We are asked to consider contemporary and traditional roles and expectations, and shown that the holiest of people can be cold and judgemental.
I enjoyed the setting details, lively outings, and the imposition of grandparents on a family when the seniors have to move in for health reasons.
I was sent an e-ARC by Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
June 27, 2019
Jennifer Beckstrand and Suzanne Woods Fisher are two of my favorite Amish authors. They both have such unique voices and I know I will get a good story.
Ms. Beckstrand writes stories filled with humor that make me smile -- maybe even laugh sometimes. And this new series about the Petersheim Brothers (AKA Peanut Butter Brothers) is loosely tied in with the Honey Bee sisters.
I love how each character is so unique and well developed. Even though she is Amish, Bitsy is a unwilling crazy cat lady with blue hair and she is so funny. Dawdi is suffering from a stroke and the Petersheims are caring for him but Andrew's mom is suffering from mother-in-law issues. I laughed when Grandma sprayed all the boys with Rose Water.
If you love Amish fiction, romance, and humor, you will LOVE Jennifer Beckstrand. Grab a copy of ANDREW today and see how well Andrew learns his lesson in loving.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
Ms. Beckstrand writes stories filled with humor that make me smile -- maybe even laugh sometimes. And this new series about the Petersheim Brothers (AKA Peanut Butter Brothers) is loosely tied in with the Honey Bee sisters.
I love how each character is so unique and well developed. Even though she is Amish, Bitsy is a unwilling crazy cat lady with blue hair and she is so funny. Dawdi is suffering from a stroke and the Petersheims are caring for him but Andrew's mom is suffering from mother-in-law issues. I laughed when Grandma sprayed all the boys with Rose Water.
If you love Amish fiction, romance, and humor, you will LOVE Jennifer Beckstrand. Grab a copy of ANDREW today and see how well Andrew learns his lesson in loving.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
July 11, 2019
Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2NQRZzE
Jennifer Beckstrand and stories with matchmaking schemes go hand in hand! From the intuitive wisdom that comes with age, to the enthusiastic persistence of youth, Beckstrand weaves subtle and often laugh-out-loud humor with spiritual themes that touch our daily faith walk. Andrew begins a new series that brings us back to the Honeybee Farm and the delightful gun-toting Aunt Bitsy – now married, but still with the colorful hair.
Age knows no boundaries when it comes to matchmaking. First, it was Anna and Felty, two of my favorite fictional characters, and now it’s the incorrigible boys, Alfie and Benji Petersheim. With their grandparents having moved into their house because of health needs, the two boys have been relegated to sleeping in the cellar – hence their desire to marry off three older siblings and get their bedroom room back.
On the surface, Andrew is a cute and delightfully entertaining romance, but there’s much more complexity to this story. Mary returns to her Amish community after having left it for the English world, and finds acceptance – not from family and friends, but from Aunt Bitsy. Andrew, initially attracted to Mary until he realized she was pregnant, reflects the judgementalism of the Amish community. I loved his spiritual journey of learning a lot about grace and forgiveness, that things aren’t always black and white.
Beckstrand has crafted yet another wonderful story with easily relatable characters and life lessons of acceptance, redemption and second chances. I am eager to spend more time with the mischievous Alfie and Benji, as well as their remaining older brothers. Abraham releases in November of 2019.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Jennifer Beckstrand and stories with matchmaking schemes go hand in hand! From the intuitive wisdom that comes with age, to the enthusiastic persistence of youth, Beckstrand weaves subtle and often laugh-out-loud humor with spiritual themes that touch our daily faith walk. Andrew begins a new series that brings us back to the Honeybee Farm and the delightful gun-toting Aunt Bitsy – now married, but still with the colorful hair.
Age knows no boundaries when it comes to matchmaking. First, it was Anna and Felty, two of my favorite fictional characters, and now it’s the incorrigible boys, Alfie and Benji Petersheim. With their grandparents having moved into their house because of health needs, the two boys have been relegated to sleeping in the cellar – hence their desire to marry off three older siblings and get their bedroom room back.
On the surface, Andrew is a cute and delightfully entertaining romance, but there’s much more complexity to this story. Mary returns to her Amish community after having left it for the English world, and finds acceptance – not from family and friends, but from Aunt Bitsy. Andrew, initially attracted to Mary until he realized she was pregnant, reflects the judgementalism of the Amish community. I loved his spiritual journey of learning a lot about grace and forgiveness, that things aren’t always black and white.
Beckstrand has crafted yet another wonderful story with easily relatable characters and life lessons of acceptance, redemption and second chances. I am eager to spend more time with the mischievous Alfie and Benji, as well as their remaining older brothers. Abraham releases in November of 2019.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
July 3, 2019
Andrew by Jennifer Beckstrand is a most delightful contemporary Amish novel and the first book in The Petersheim Brothers series. I cannot wait for the subsequent books.
Whenever I pick up a Jennifer Beckstrand book I know that I will be in for a real treat and Andrew is no exception. Revisiting familiar faces from The Honeybee Sisters series, I settled down into known territory. Once again Bitsy imparted her wisdom “Boys are like stray cats. If you feed them once, they keep coming back.” There is an air of light-heartedness over the whole book even though there are some serious themes.
The characters are delightfully drawn. I loved the eight year old match making twin brothers who got into amusing scrapes and had hearts of gold. Their perception and love went beyond their years. All the main characters radiated love even though some tried to keep it at bay. One of my favourite lines was “Bitsy isn’t afraid to love people who don’t fit in.” This speaks volumes about her character who gives unconditional love. This reminds the reader of our Father God who loves us unconditionally, no matter what we’ve done, no matter where we’ve been God’s love remains.
The main theme is that of forgiveness. We all need to receive it and dispense it. We are often our own worst critics. “Jesus has forgiven you. You should forgive yourself.” If God has forgiven us (and He has) then we must forgive ourselves or be guilty of hubris. We all mess up at times but must not stay down in our pit.
The novel is about new beginnings and second chances. We must all decide what is really important. We all have choices to make – for good or bad – we must live with the consequences of our choices.
The Amish are a people who are community minded. The reader has a glimpse into their world and ‘feels’ included.
Andrew was such a delightful read, full of true pearls of wisdom. I would like to leave you with my favourite:
“Only God could forgive [her]. [His] job was to behave like a Christian and show forth love.”
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Whenever I pick up a Jennifer Beckstrand book I know that I will be in for a real treat and Andrew is no exception. Revisiting familiar faces from The Honeybee Sisters series, I settled down into known territory. Once again Bitsy imparted her wisdom “Boys are like stray cats. If you feed them once, they keep coming back.” There is an air of light-heartedness over the whole book even though there are some serious themes.
The characters are delightfully drawn. I loved the eight year old match making twin brothers who got into amusing scrapes and had hearts of gold. Their perception and love went beyond their years. All the main characters radiated love even though some tried to keep it at bay. One of my favourite lines was “Bitsy isn’t afraid to love people who don’t fit in.” This speaks volumes about her character who gives unconditional love. This reminds the reader of our Father God who loves us unconditionally, no matter what we’ve done, no matter where we’ve been God’s love remains.
The main theme is that of forgiveness. We all need to receive it and dispense it. We are often our own worst critics. “Jesus has forgiven you. You should forgive yourself.” If God has forgiven us (and He has) then we must forgive ourselves or be guilty of hubris. We all mess up at times but must not stay down in our pit.
The novel is about new beginnings and second chances. We must all decide what is really important. We all have choices to make – for good or bad – we must live with the consequences of our choices.
The Amish are a people who are community minded. The reader has a glimpse into their world and ‘feels’ included.
Andrew was such a delightful read, full of true pearls of wisdom. I would like to leave you with my favourite:
“Only God could forgive [her]. [His] job was to behave like a Christian and show forth love.”
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 4, 2019
Reading a new book from Jennifer Beckstrand is always an absolute delight. Getting to spend more time with Bitsy Weaver (from her Honeybee Sister series) is pure joy.
In addition, we are treated to two precocious boys Alfie and Benji, 8 year old twins with a penchant for matchmaking their older brother (so he’ll move out and they can have their own room instead of having to sleep in the scary cellar). Every time they were on the page, my face sported a huge grin. And sometimes their little boy earnest hearts made me tear up, too. (The scene with Dawdi & borrowing the binoculars. Oh be still my heart!)
Andrew and Mary are an unlikely pair at first glance. He, a straitlaced “good” Amish young man (who really wants to make furniture instead of peanut butter). She, an unwed pregnant young woman who left the Amish for the evils of the Englisch world and is now back to face the judgmental attitudes of the community with grace and bravery. And yet, their chemistry was palpable from the very first moment they shared the page. Their banter is grin-inducing and their inner thoughts toward the other person will leave you swooning.
Bottom Line: Prepare to laugh, swoon, cry and even be a little convicted by the time the story is over. Andrew – the book and the eponymous hero – is layered and fun and deliciously romantic. The message of Jesus’ mercy is tender and so important, and the truth of His grace is evident throughout. The young twins are the stars of this show, and I can’t wait to see what delightful mischief they get up to next!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
In addition, we are treated to two precocious boys Alfie and Benji, 8 year old twins with a penchant for matchmaking their older brother (so he’ll move out and they can have their own room instead of having to sleep in the scary cellar). Every time they were on the page, my face sported a huge grin. And sometimes their little boy earnest hearts made me tear up, too. (The scene with Dawdi & borrowing the binoculars. Oh be still my heart!)
Andrew and Mary are an unlikely pair at first glance. He, a straitlaced “good” Amish young man (who really wants to make furniture instead of peanut butter). She, an unwed pregnant young woman who left the Amish for the evils of the Englisch world and is now back to face the judgmental attitudes of the community with grace and bravery. And yet, their chemistry was palpable from the very first moment they shared the page. Their banter is grin-inducing and their inner thoughts toward the other person will leave you swooning.
Bottom Line: Prepare to laugh, swoon, cry and even be a little convicted by the time the story is over. Andrew – the book and the eponymous hero – is layered and fun and deliciously romantic. The message of Jesus’ mercy is tender and so important, and the truth of His grace is evident throughout. The young twins are the stars of this show, and I can’t wait to see what delightful mischief they get up to next!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
June 6, 2019
Andrew is the beginning of jennifer Beckstrand's series, The Petersheim Brothers. In this installment, a reader is introduced to Andrew Petersheim. He is a single Amish man with twin younger brothers, who are determine to play matchmaker. They find Mary and pick her for their older brother. This is when the plot really begins. Will their matchmaking backfire?
I have enjoyed Jennifer Beckstrand's books in the past and Andrew is no different. I really liked this wonderful and heartwarming story of forgiveness, redemption, faith, inspiration, grace, hope and having second choices. I loved Mary from the start. I admired your bravery dealing with the community. I was not sure about Andrew at first but he grew on me.
I am giving Andrew four and a half stars. I look forward to the second addition from The Petersheim Brothers series, Abraham. I recommend this one for readers who enjoy clean Amish fiction.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I have enjoyed Jennifer Beckstrand's books in the past and Andrew is no different. I really liked this wonderful and heartwarming story of forgiveness, redemption, faith, inspiration, grace, hope and having second choices. I loved Mary from the start. I admired your bravery dealing with the community. I was not sure about Andrew at first but he grew on me.
I am giving Andrew four and a half stars. I look forward to the second addition from The Petersheim Brothers series, Abraham. I recommend this one for readers who enjoy clean Amish fiction.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
June 17, 2019
I’ve read many of Jennifer Beckstrand’s books, and this like most of her books make me smile.
This one highlights forgiveness, and she brings us a wayward Amish girl, who has returned home for a visit, stay or permanently if she decides to raise her unborn child in the community.
We are back with Bitsy, now married and baptized, but still as spunky as ever, and remember don’t feed “boys”!
Then we are introduced to a new family the Petersheim’s or Peanut Butter Brothers, and I’ll have to tell you that I cringed when the eight-year-old twins had to sleep in the cellar, yuck, but this is what causes these imps to try and marry off a brother, namely Andrew!
Now there are at least two more books here, and I for one enjoyed this read that at times had me laughing out loud!
I received this book through the Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
This one highlights forgiveness, and she brings us a wayward Amish girl, who has returned home for a visit, stay or permanently if she decides to raise her unborn child in the community.
We are back with Bitsy, now married and baptized, but still as spunky as ever, and remember don’t feed “boys”!
Then we are introduced to a new family the Petersheim’s or Peanut Butter Brothers, and I’ll have to tell you that I cringed when the eight-year-old twins had to sleep in the cellar, yuck, but this is what causes these imps to try and marry off a brother, namely Andrew!
Now there are at least two more books here, and I for one enjoyed this read that at times had me laughing out loud!
I received this book through the Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 26, 2019
5 Stars: 5/5 star rating
What goes together better than peanut butter and honey? Hmmm....love and marriage?? Babies and twins? Readers will laugh and cry in this book as little Alfie and Benji try to marry off their brothers, starting with Andrew. Mary is such a lovable character that I felt such empathy for her from the very beginning of the book. Andrew comes on rather strong and unforgiving at the start, but maybe there is hope for him yet.
I believe readers will get great pleasure from this book, just as I did.
I received a free digital version of this book from netgalley and Zebra Publishing in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
What goes together better than peanut butter and honey? Hmmm....love and marriage?? Babies and twins? Readers will laugh and cry in this book as little Alfie and Benji try to marry off their brothers, starting with Andrew. Mary is such a lovable character that I felt such empathy for her from the very beginning of the book. Andrew comes on rather strong and unforgiving at the start, but maybe there is hope for him yet.
I believe readers will get great pleasure from this book, just as I did.
I received a free digital version of this book from netgalley and Zebra Publishing in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 17, 2019
Great book!
This is my first Jennifer Beckstrand book but it will not be the last!
The synopsis doesn’t include information about Andrew’s youngest brothers, Alfie and Benji. These eight-year-old twins are determined to get their older brothers married off so they can move out of the cellar bedroom they were relegated to when Mammi and Dawdi had to move in with their family. Their plan is to marry off their three older brothers so a room will become vacant for them. Yeah, when I read a review that explained that, I knew I had to read this series!
I love the way the author didn’t just make this a cute story about matchmaking boys. Instead, she tackled some heavy spiritual matters. Gossip. Judgement. Unforgiveness.
It must have been so difficult for Mary to return to her community, knowing how the gossips would be. And yet, she desired to have her baby in the safety of her family. So when she was rejected by her parents, she was crushed. My heart went out to her, longing to hug her and love her through her pain!
Despite Andrew’s initial judgemental attitude towards Mary, enough of his tender heart shone through so I didn’t despise him. It was clear that his expectations of “seeing” signs of repentance in her were out of a desire for holiness and not simply meanness or pride. Moreover, he did champion her when others were unkind. Where he truly made me like him was in his relationship with his little brothers and the deep love he had for them, even when they did crazy things!
The conversations Mary and Andrew had regarding her sin and what he perceived as a lack of repentance were very insightful and thought provoking. The entire community expected to “see” her repentance – yet what would that look like? Should she go around in sackcloth and ashes? Refuse to smile or laugh? (In case you are wondering, the answer is no!)
My review would be incomplete without another mention of the twins. Oh my! The things they got themselves into were so funny! I could just picture them, thinking they had these amazing plans and then being so surprised when things went from bad to worse and they needed to be rescued. Yet they were not only full of fun and games. They loved Mary so fiercely and so unconditionally. Truly, they exemplified a reason Jesus said we need to be as little children.
Dawdi is living with the Petersheim’s after suffering a stroke. He is unable to speak, yet Benji and Alfie have found that they can communicate with him quite well, as long as they ask him yes and no questions – which he answers with a smile or a frown. Andrew confesses his deepest hopes and fears to him. By the end of the story, Dawdi is still not recovered enough to speak. I’m anticipating many more of these sessions in the books to come with the other brothers and hope that he recovers his speech soon so we can hear what he has been thinking all along!
Andrew is delightful, insightful, and sweet. I highly recommend this wonderful story!
Read my full review at Among the Reads
This is my first Jennifer Beckstrand book but it will not be the last!
The synopsis doesn’t include information about Andrew’s youngest brothers, Alfie and Benji. These eight-year-old twins are determined to get their older brothers married off so they can move out of the cellar bedroom they were relegated to when Mammi and Dawdi had to move in with their family. Their plan is to marry off their three older brothers so a room will become vacant for them. Yeah, when I read a review that explained that, I knew I had to read this series!
I love the way the author didn’t just make this a cute story about matchmaking boys. Instead, she tackled some heavy spiritual matters. Gossip. Judgement. Unforgiveness.
It must have been so difficult for Mary to return to her community, knowing how the gossips would be. And yet, she desired to have her baby in the safety of her family. So when she was rejected by her parents, she was crushed. My heart went out to her, longing to hug her and love her through her pain!
Despite Andrew’s initial judgemental attitude towards Mary, enough of his tender heart shone through so I didn’t despise him. It was clear that his expectations of “seeing” signs of repentance in her were out of a desire for holiness and not simply meanness or pride. Moreover, he did champion her when others were unkind. Where he truly made me like him was in his relationship with his little brothers and the deep love he had for them, even when they did crazy things!
The conversations Mary and Andrew had regarding her sin and what he perceived as a lack of repentance were very insightful and thought provoking. The entire community expected to “see” her repentance – yet what would that look like? Should she go around in sackcloth and ashes? Refuse to smile or laugh? (In case you are wondering, the answer is no!)
My review would be incomplete without another mention of the twins. Oh my! The things they got themselves into were so funny! I could just picture them, thinking they had these amazing plans and then being so surprised when things went from bad to worse and they needed to be rescued. Yet they were not only full of fun and games. They loved Mary so fiercely and so unconditionally. Truly, they exemplified a reason Jesus said we need to be as little children.
Dawdi is living with the Petersheim’s after suffering a stroke. He is unable to speak, yet Benji and Alfie have found that they can communicate with him quite well, as long as they ask him yes and no questions – which he answers with a smile or a frown. Andrew confesses his deepest hopes and fears to him. By the end of the story, Dawdi is still not recovered enough to speak. I’m anticipating many more of these sessions in the books to come with the other brothers and hope that he recovers his speech soon so we can hear what he has been thinking all along!
Andrew is delightful, insightful, and sweet. I highly recommend this wonderful story!
Read my full review at Among the Reads
June 21, 2019
I’ve recently discovered a love for Amish fiction and found Jennifer Beckstrand’s delightful books, particularly any centered in Huckleberry Hill, a small village in Wisconsin. When I stumbled upon Ms. Beckstrand’s new romance, book one in the Petersheim Brothers series. I immediately requested it on Net-Galley, and the publisher was kind and approved my request. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.
Andrew is a delightful Amish romance with engaging characters and a heartfelt plot. The pacing is excellent and kept me enthralled from the first page. It was such a delight when a secondary character, Bitsy, from one of previous Amish books by Ms. Beckstrand is in this one. I love it when an author brings well-loved characters into a new story.
Mary Coblenz is a young Amish girl who jumped the fence. She’s now an unwed, pregnant nineteen-year-old and has returned to her village. Her reception is not good. Her parents refuse her entrance into her family home. My heart ached immediately for her. Enters the eccentric Bitsy, who welcomes her with open arms. My heart went out to Mary. Her ex-boyfriend had betrayed her trust, and now her family has turned her back on her. Without Bitsy, she would have been homeless.
Two mischievous eight-year-old twins enter her life, along with their elder brother, and they turn her world upside down. At first, Andrew is very judgmental of Mary’s dilemma and believes she has earned his scorn and many of the others in their community. The twins feel differently and want him to marry so they don’t have to stay in the cellar any more. Mary seems perfect for their plans. After all, Andrew would gain a ready-made family!
At first, Andrew comes across a bit sanctimonious, but a good young man at heart, he realizes he’s judged Mary unfairly without really knowing her. I enjoyed his change of heart, which shows the goodness of his soul. I also loved his patience with his rambunctious brothers.
As with most Amish romances, the love between them grows from the friendship between the couple. I believe that’s what I like best in this genre. The couples normally don’t even kiss. At most, they hold hands and sneak glances at each other in a most innocent way. Indicative of long-ago times. That’s the case with Andrew and Mary. They clearly are falling in love. Of course, Mary is scared of their growing feelings, and Andrew is a bit clueless. Fortunately, it all come together in the end in a most enjoyable way for this reader!
If you enjoy Amish romance with wonderful characters from the hero and heroine to the cast of secondary ones as well, you will love Andrew. I can’t wait to read Abraham, which is the second book in this amazing new series. Happy reading!
Andrew is a delightful Amish romance with engaging characters and a heartfelt plot. The pacing is excellent and kept me enthralled from the first page. It was such a delight when a secondary character, Bitsy, from one of previous Amish books by Ms. Beckstrand is in this one. I love it when an author brings well-loved characters into a new story.
Mary Coblenz is a young Amish girl who jumped the fence. She’s now an unwed, pregnant nineteen-year-old and has returned to her village. Her reception is not good. Her parents refuse her entrance into her family home. My heart ached immediately for her. Enters the eccentric Bitsy, who welcomes her with open arms. My heart went out to Mary. Her ex-boyfriend had betrayed her trust, and now her family has turned her back on her. Without Bitsy, she would have been homeless.
Two mischievous eight-year-old twins enter her life, along with their elder brother, and they turn her world upside down. At first, Andrew is very judgmental of Mary’s dilemma and believes she has earned his scorn and many of the others in their community. The twins feel differently and want him to marry so they don’t have to stay in the cellar any more. Mary seems perfect for their plans. After all, Andrew would gain a ready-made family!
At first, Andrew comes across a bit sanctimonious, but a good young man at heart, he realizes he’s judged Mary unfairly without really knowing her. I enjoyed his change of heart, which shows the goodness of his soul. I also loved his patience with his rambunctious brothers.
As with most Amish romances, the love between them grows from the friendship between the couple. I believe that’s what I like best in this genre. The couples normally don’t even kiss. At most, they hold hands and sneak glances at each other in a most innocent way. Indicative of long-ago times. That’s the case with Andrew and Mary. They clearly are falling in love. Of course, Mary is scared of their growing feelings, and Andrew is a bit clueless. Fortunately, it all come together in the end in a most enjoyable way for this reader!
If you enjoy Amish romance with wonderful characters from the hero and heroine to the cast of secondary ones as well, you will love Andrew. I can’t wait to read Abraham, which is the second book in this amazing new series. Happy reading!
May 30, 2019
This book was so very good!! Except that we can do without Aunt Bitsy's gun of course! I'd hate to be greeted with that thing!! But, once she puts it down and let's u get to know her, she's really a very wonderful woman. A bit unusual but that's what I love about her!! I like different. It took me a long time to learn that different is good.
I wouldn't want to be like everyone else! I'm glad Aunt Bitsy is back!! She's my favorite person next to Anna and Felty Helmuth!
The twins were my favorite and I laughed at their antics!! What boys will do!! They made me laugh until I cried. But, I hated it when they got punished for trying to help or what they thought was helping people.
Now, Andrew is another story. I thought he was kind of two faced at first by not wanting to help Caroline in public but then turning around to help her in private. That was very wrong.
Sometimes we do make mistakes in life and Caroline's was a very big mistake but I think she learned her lesson the hard way as we sometimes are want to do. However, I did like her immediately because I felt the community judged her. Judge not unless we're to be judge accordingly to God. In other words we have no right to judge others. We're supposed to help no matter what the circumstances that brought us into this position..
I could say more about this book but I don't want to end up giving anything away! I can't wait for y'all to read this book!! It's full of mischief, love and family
I love this author's stories and the messages it has to offer. And the lessons that can be learned from this story
This is a story that will make you sit on the edge of your seat until the book is finished and wanting for more!
I highly recommend this book for everyone who love the Amish and I love that they want to be in the world and not of it. I think we could learn very special lessons from them! They know how to live off the land in hard times as well as good.
I received a complimentary of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!!
I wouldn't want to be like everyone else! I'm glad Aunt Bitsy is back!! She's my favorite person next to Anna and Felty Helmuth!
The twins were my favorite and I laughed at their antics!! What boys will do!! They made me laugh until I cried. But, I hated it when they got punished for trying to help or what they thought was helping people.
Now, Andrew is another story. I thought he was kind of two faced at first by not wanting to help Caroline in public but then turning around to help her in private. That was very wrong.
Sometimes we do make mistakes in life and Caroline's was a very big mistake but I think she learned her lesson the hard way as we sometimes are want to do. However, I did like her immediately because I felt the community judged her. Judge not unless we're to be judge accordingly to God. In other words we have no right to judge others. We're supposed to help no matter what the circumstances that brought us into this position..
I could say more about this book but I don't want to end up giving anything away! I can't wait for y'all to read this book!! It's full of mischief, love and family
I love this author's stories and the messages it has to offer. And the lessons that can be learned from this story
This is a story that will make you sit on the edge of your seat until the book is finished and wanting for more!
I highly recommend this book for everyone who love the Amish and I love that they want to be in the world and not of it. I think we could learn very special lessons from them! They know how to live off the land in hard times as well as good.
I received a complimentary of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!!
June 21, 2019
Andrew is a delightful Amish romance novel. This story had me chuckling from beginning to end. We get to return to The Honeybee Farm owned by Bitsy Kiem Weaver who still changes the color of her hair regularly, has her shotgun at the ready and talks out loud to God. She willingly takes in Mary Coblentz when she returns to town unwed and pregnant. Bitsy is a wonderful character who I wished lived was my neighbor (minus the bees). I loved it when Mary said, “Bitsy isn’t afraid to love people who don’t fit in”. Mary is a nineteen year old who left the community and regrets her decision. She is a brave young woman who is not going to be bullied or hide inside just so other people will be satisfied. Andrew is taken with Mary until he sees that she is pregnant. But, thanks to the twins, he keeps encountering Mary. Andrew’s idea of right and wrong are going to be put to the test. Alfie and Benji were hilarious with their antics. I loved their simplistic outlook of situations. There are judgmental members of the Amish community who need to learn Christian charity. I like the Christian values and life lessons presented in Andrew (faith, forgiveness, redemption, grace, patience, second chances, honesty). We are all sinners and make mistakes. Everyone deserves forgiveness and a second chance. I thought the book was well-written and it proceeded at a steady pace. It seems like I barely began the book when I finished it (with many smiles and giggles along the way). It was interesting to learn more about creating homemade peanut butter. It is cute that the Petersheim brothers are called The Peanut Butter Brothers by locals. I cannot wait to read the next two books in The Petersheim Brothers series. If you have not read The Honeybee Sisters (though you really should), you will not be at a disadvantage. Andrew is a heartwarming story with the colorful, shotgun toting Bitsy, yummy honey, impish twins, homemade peanut butter, and merry mishaps.
July 5, 2019
What have I come to expect when I open a book with the name "Jennifer Beckstrand" on the front? I expect a fun story with some unpredictable yet lovable characters, tender moments, important life lessons, with a healthy dose of mischief mixed in for good measure. Probably there will be times that make me laugh and others that bring a few tears to my eyes. Well, that is exactly what I found in Andrew, the first book in Jennifer's Petersheim Brothers series.
If you have read the Honeybee Sisters series, you will enjoy finding Aunt Bitsy playing a big part in Andrew's and Mary's story. If you have read the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, you may wonder if the 8-year-old twin Petersheim brothers, Alfie and Benji, didn't somehow get some match-making training from Felty and Anna Helmuth (even though those grandparents don't show up anywhere in the story).
Andrew is a lovely story that is a delight to read for all the reasons I've mentioned. In the midst of all the fun, though, the heart of the story has to do with forgiveness, grace, second chances and love. Those themes are gently woven in through the challenges of judgmental attitudes, hurtful gossip, and difficult consequences of personal choices. The characters are skillfully developed, and following their journeys is a real joy.
I highly recommend this awesome story to fans of Amish fiction or anyone else who enjoys a great read. Thanks to Celebrate Lit for providing a copy of the book. I am happy to share my thoughts in this review.
If you have read the Honeybee Sisters series, you will enjoy finding Aunt Bitsy playing a big part in Andrew's and Mary's story. If you have read the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, you may wonder if the 8-year-old twin Petersheim brothers, Alfie and Benji, didn't somehow get some match-making training from Felty and Anna Helmuth (even though those grandparents don't show up anywhere in the story).
Andrew is a lovely story that is a delight to read for all the reasons I've mentioned. In the midst of all the fun, though, the heart of the story has to do with forgiveness, grace, second chances and love. Those themes are gently woven in through the challenges of judgmental attitudes, hurtful gossip, and difficult consequences of personal choices. The characters are skillfully developed, and following their journeys is a real joy.
I highly recommend this awesome story to fans of Amish fiction or anyone else who enjoys a great read. Thanks to Celebrate Lit for providing a copy of the book. I am happy to share my thoughts in this review.
July 27, 2019
Andrew is the oldest of five children in the Petersheim's family. Their family's business in Wisconsin Amish community has earned them the nickname The Peanut Butter Brothers. But could the younger two brothers' matchmaking soon earn the older brothers new titles of ... husband.
After two years of "jumping the fence", Mary Coblenz has returned from the Englisch world unmarried and pregnant. Instead of hiding like the community expects, she's staying at the Honeybee Farm. She's even caught the eyes of eight-year-old twin brothers of Andrew's.
Can Mary -and the unknown help of Petersheim's twins- get Andrew to see Mary's courage and grace while she's changing his notions about forgiveness and love?
Is Mary willing to start over with Andrew?
Jennifer Beckstrand had every emotion come to life off the pages through her characters. I was laughing at the twins and Aunt Bitsy at the Honeybee Farm. I could feel Andrew's anger at his younger twin brothers because of their mischief. The not-so-kind words that deep down hurt Mary but yet she was still kind to her community members.
I loved the book "Andrew". I can't wait to read if Aunt Bitsy make anymore appearances or not. I really can't wait to read what the twins have up their sleeves for Abraham and Austin in the future books to the series.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review in my own words.
After two years of "jumping the fence", Mary Coblenz has returned from the Englisch world unmarried and pregnant. Instead of hiding like the community expects, she's staying at the Honeybee Farm. She's even caught the eyes of eight-year-old twin brothers of Andrew's.
Can Mary -and the unknown help of Petersheim's twins- get Andrew to see Mary's courage and grace while she's changing his notions about forgiveness and love?
Is Mary willing to start over with Andrew?
Jennifer Beckstrand had every emotion come to life off the pages through her characters. I was laughing at the twins and Aunt Bitsy at the Honeybee Farm. I could feel Andrew's anger at his younger twin brothers because of their mischief. The not-so-kind words that deep down hurt Mary but yet she was still kind to her community members.
I loved the book "Andrew". I can't wait to read if Aunt Bitsy make anymore appearances or not. I really can't wait to read what the twins have up their sleeves for Abraham and Austin in the future books to the series.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review in my own words.
January 11, 2020
The twins in this series have picked up where, in antics not the storyline, Grandma Annie left off in the Huckleberry Hill series, I'm already hooked on this series! This author is one of the BEST, she pulls you in, makes you giggle, touches your heart and keeps you wanting more. I thought I'd read every one of her books but I found one I missed so will have to get it to finish that series.
I am quickly moving on to read "Abraham" as I got the first two books in this series for Christmas. "Andrew" will not be out until June, JUNE, I have to wait until JUNE to finish the series!!
Very highly recommended and a must read!
I am quickly moving on to read "Abraham" as I got the first two books in this series for Christmas. "Andrew" will not be out until June, JUNE, I have to wait until JUNE to finish the series!!
Very highly recommended and a must read!
July 22, 2019
This was a cute story with a unique plot, however I think the author spent far too much time focusing on the two younger brothers. Yes, they were the minds behind the grand plan to find their brother a wife, but I think the focus was on them for too much of the book rather than on Andrew and Mary.
I will say that I enjoyed watching Andrew come to terms with his feelings and beliefs toward Mary.
** ARC received from Netgalley **
I will say that I enjoyed watching Andrew come to terms with his feelings and beliefs toward Mary.
** ARC received from Netgalley **
July 11, 2019
What a wonderful story.
This is the story of a girl, Mary, who jumped the fence so she could be free to make her own choices. Mary came back to her home and didn't find acceptance, except from Bitsy who was the strangest Amish transplant you'd ever meet. Bitsy colored her hair - not blond or brown, but orange and green and blue... I loved Bitsy, she took Mary in and loved her despite her sins in the past. Mary had repented of her sins, but her community wanted her to suffer for them - they hadn't looked into their own hearts or when they did they saw her sin as greater than theirs. They didn't look at how she had already suffered, they wanted her to feel her punishment. Bitsy just accepted her as she was and helped her to be the woman God wanted her to be. She loved her with Jesus' love. That love doesn't overlook our sin, it forgives our sin when we repent and moves us forward with joy.
Andrew was typical of the people in his community, he didn't like Mary and he didn't want her parading her "mistakes" for everyone to see. But his younger twin brothers were wonderful. You see, they needed Andrew to fall in love with Mary so the scamps did everything they could think o,f in the realm of the eight year old mind, to bring these two together and they sure got into a lot of trouble!
Late last night, as my husband was sleeping, I was struggling not to laugh out loud. The dialog was so hilarious and the antics of the brothers naughty but funny.
This is a clean read.
This is the story of a girl, Mary, who jumped the fence so she could be free to make her own choices. Mary came back to her home and didn't find acceptance, except from Bitsy who was the strangest Amish transplant you'd ever meet. Bitsy colored her hair - not blond or brown, but orange and green and blue... I loved Bitsy, she took Mary in and loved her despite her sins in the past. Mary had repented of her sins, but her community wanted her to suffer for them - they hadn't looked into their own hearts or when they did they saw her sin as greater than theirs. They didn't look at how she had already suffered, they wanted her to feel her punishment. Bitsy just accepted her as she was and helped her to be the woman God wanted her to be. She loved her with Jesus' love. That love doesn't overlook our sin, it forgives our sin when we repent and moves us forward with joy.
Andrew was typical of the people in his community, he didn't like Mary and he didn't want her parading her "mistakes" for everyone to see. But his younger twin brothers were wonderful. You see, they needed Andrew to fall in love with Mary so the scamps did everything they could think o,f in the realm of the eight year old mind, to bring these two together and they sure got into a lot of trouble!
Late last night, as my husband was sleeping, I was struggling not to laugh out loud. The dialog was so hilarious and the antics of the brothers naughty but funny.
This is a clean read.
July 8, 2019
Andrew by Jennifer Beckstrand
Andrew is a great older brother. He is handsome and smart. But he has a tendency to not think before he speaks. This can cost him big time. Will he learn from his mistakes?
Mary has made some mistakes. It has cost her dearly. Can she forgive herself? Can she be forgiven by others?
I absolutely adored Andrew's younger twin brothers, Alfi and Benji as well as a returning favorite- Aunt Bitsy. The story was funny and entertaining. It was enjoyable. I couldn't wait to read it when I got home from work. What would the twins get up to next?
I am excited that this tale will continue on with Andrew's two single brothers, Abraham and Austin. pJennifer Beckstrand knows how to pull your heart strings, make you laugh and cry and teach you a valuable lesson all at the same time.
I received her book for free to review from Celebrate Lit.
About the Book
Andrew
Book: Andrew
Author: Jennifer Beckstrand
Genre: Amish Romance
Release Date: June 25, 2019
Andrew, Abraham, and Austin Petersheim’s family business has earned them the nickname The Peanut Butter Brothers. But if their matchmaking younger siblings have their way, all three may soon bear another title: husband . . .
Handsome, hardworking, and godly, Andrew Petersheim has always been sure of his place in his Wisconsin Amish community. He’ll be a welcome catch for the local girl who finally captures his heart. Mary Coblenz certainly isn’t that girl. Two years after “jumping the fence” for the Englischer world, she’s returned, unmarried and pregnant. Yet instead of hiding in shame as others in the community expect, she’s working at the Honeybee Farm, ignoring the gossips—and winning over Andrew’s eight-year-old twin brothers . . .
For all Andrew’s certainty about right and wrong, it seems he has a lot to learn from Mary’s courage, grace, and resilience. She’s changing his notions about forgiveness and love, but will she in turn accept the challenge of starting over and choose to stay—with him?
Click here to grab your copy!
About the Author
Jennifer beckstrandJennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries, The Honeybee Sistersseries, and The Petersheim Brothersseries for Kensington Books.Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were bothnominated for the coveted RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Jennifer has written twenty-one Amish romances, a historical Western, Jessie and James, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. She and her husband have been married for thirty-four years, and she has six children and seven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
More from Jennifer
If you enjoyed The Honeybee Sisters, you’re going to love The Petersheim Brothers, or the Peanut Butter Brothers as they’re known in their small Amish community of Bienenstock, Wisconsin. The Petersheim brothers work their small farm and make peanut butter. The idea for The Petersheim Brothers series came when two of my friends and I were creating The Honeybee Sisters Cookbook. My friend Alicia suggested I write a book about Peanut Butter Brothers, and the idea stuck.
One of my favorite characters in my Amish romances is Aunt Bitsy, the irrepressible, unconventional woman who raised the Honeybee Sisters, tried to chase off all their suitors, and then lit fireworks at their triple wedding. In Andrew, the first book in the Petersheim Brothers series, Aunt Bitsy takes in a girl who has jumped the fence and wants to come back to the Amish community to have her baby. Aunt Bitsy is still protecting her dandelions and her bees, still dyeing her hair all sorts of bright colors, and still praying to Gotte right out loud.
Andrew is about forgiveness, second chances, and learning to love. It will have you laughing and crying, and you might just fall in love with two of the most mischievous little boys in Wisconsin. Enjoy.
In honor of the Peanut Butter Brothers, I want to share one of our favorite family recipes. These bars are perfect for picnics, parties, and potlucks. They’re easy and delicious!
Peanut Butter Bars
Cream together:
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup sugar
Blend In:
2 unbeaten eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
2/3 cup peanut butter
½ tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
Stir In:
2 cups flour
2 cups quick oats
Spread mixture in greased jelly-roll pan or large cookie sheet.
Bake: 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Do not overbake. Remove from oven.
Sprinkle on:
1 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Let stand five minutes.
For peanut butter mixture on top, combine:
½ cup sifted powdered sugar
¼ cup peanut butter
2 to 4 Tbs. evaporated milk
Mix well.
The chocolate chips will melt on the bars. Spread melted chocolate evenly. Drizzle peanut butter mixture on top. Cool completely. Cut into bars.
Blog Stops
The Power of Words, June 26
The Avid Reader, June 26
Moments, June 26
Lighthouse Academy, June 27
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 27
Blossoms and Blessings, June 28
Christian Author, J.E. Grace, June 28
Reading Is My SuperPower, June 29
Bigreadersite, June 29
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 30
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 30
Genesis 5020, July 1
Stephanie’s Life of Determination, July 1
Inklings and notions , July 1
Maureen’s Musings, July 2
Locks, Hooks and Books, July 2
Christian Bookaholic, July 3
Pause for Tales, July 3
Southern Gal Loves to Read, July 4
For Him and my family, July 4
A Reader’s Brain, July 4
Mary Hake, July 5
Splashesofjoy, July 5
Vicky Sluiter, July 5
Texas Book-aholic, July 6
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 7
janicesbookreviews, July 7
Little Homeschool on the Prairie, July 8
Older & Smarter?, July 8
Quiet Quilter, July 9
Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 9
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a grand prize of a $20 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e57a/andre...
Andrew is a great older brother. He is handsome and smart. But he has a tendency to not think before he speaks. This can cost him big time. Will he learn from his mistakes?
Mary has made some mistakes. It has cost her dearly. Can she forgive herself? Can she be forgiven by others?
I absolutely adored Andrew's younger twin brothers, Alfi and Benji as well as a returning favorite- Aunt Bitsy. The story was funny and entertaining. It was enjoyable. I couldn't wait to read it when I got home from work. What would the twins get up to next?
I am excited that this tale will continue on with Andrew's two single brothers, Abraham and Austin. pJennifer Beckstrand knows how to pull your heart strings, make you laugh and cry and teach you a valuable lesson all at the same time.
I received her book for free to review from Celebrate Lit.
About the Book
Andrew
Book: Andrew
Author: Jennifer Beckstrand
Genre: Amish Romance
Release Date: June 25, 2019
Andrew, Abraham, and Austin Petersheim’s family business has earned them the nickname The Peanut Butter Brothers. But if their matchmaking younger siblings have their way, all three may soon bear another title: husband . . .
Handsome, hardworking, and godly, Andrew Petersheim has always been sure of his place in his Wisconsin Amish community. He’ll be a welcome catch for the local girl who finally captures his heart. Mary Coblenz certainly isn’t that girl. Two years after “jumping the fence” for the Englischer world, she’s returned, unmarried and pregnant. Yet instead of hiding in shame as others in the community expect, she’s working at the Honeybee Farm, ignoring the gossips—and winning over Andrew’s eight-year-old twin brothers . . .
For all Andrew’s certainty about right and wrong, it seems he has a lot to learn from Mary’s courage, grace, and resilience. She’s changing his notions about forgiveness and love, but will she in turn accept the challenge of starting over and choose to stay—with him?
Click here to grab your copy!
About the Author
Jennifer beckstrandJennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries, The Honeybee Sistersseries, and The Petersheim Brothersseries for Kensington Books.Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were bothnominated for the coveted RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Jennifer has written twenty-one Amish romances, a historical Western, Jessie and James, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. She and her husband have been married for thirty-four years, and she has six children and seven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
More from Jennifer
If you enjoyed The Honeybee Sisters, you’re going to love The Petersheim Brothers, or the Peanut Butter Brothers as they’re known in their small Amish community of Bienenstock, Wisconsin. The Petersheim brothers work their small farm and make peanut butter. The idea for The Petersheim Brothers series came when two of my friends and I were creating The Honeybee Sisters Cookbook. My friend Alicia suggested I write a book about Peanut Butter Brothers, and the idea stuck.
One of my favorite characters in my Amish romances is Aunt Bitsy, the irrepressible, unconventional woman who raised the Honeybee Sisters, tried to chase off all their suitors, and then lit fireworks at their triple wedding. In Andrew, the first book in the Petersheim Brothers series, Aunt Bitsy takes in a girl who has jumped the fence and wants to come back to the Amish community to have her baby. Aunt Bitsy is still protecting her dandelions and her bees, still dyeing her hair all sorts of bright colors, and still praying to Gotte right out loud.
Andrew is about forgiveness, second chances, and learning to love. It will have you laughing and crying, and you might just fall in love with two of the most mischievous little boys in Wisconsin. Enjoy.
In honor of the Peanut Butter Brothers, I want to share one of our favorite family recipes. These bars are perfect for picnics, parties, and potlucks. They’re easy and delicious!
Peanut Butter Bars
Cream together:
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup sugar
Blend In:
2 unbeaten eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
2/3 cup peanut butter
½ tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
Stir In:
2 cups flour
2 cups quick oats
Spread mixture in greased jelly-roll pan or large cookie sheet.
Bake: 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Do not overbake. Remove from oven.
Sprinkle on:
1 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Let stand five minutes.
For peanut butter mixture on top, combine:
½ cup sifted powdered sugar
¼ cup peanut butter
2 to 4 Tbs. evaporated milk
Mix well.
The chocolate chips will melt on the bars. Spread melted chocolate evenly. Drizzle peanut butter mixture on top. Cool completely. Cut into bars.
Blog Stops
The Power of Words, June 26
The Avid Reader, June 26
Moments, June 26
Lighthouse Academy, June 27
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 27
Blossoms and Blessings, June 28
Christian Author, J.E. Grace, June 28
Reading Is My SuperPower, June 29
Bigreadersite, June 29
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 30
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 30
Genesis 5020, July 1
Stephanie’s Life of Determination, July 1
Inklings and notions , July 1
Maureen’s Musings, July 2
Locks, Hooks and Books, July 2
Christian Bookaholic, July 3
Pause for Tales, July 3
Southern Gal Loves to Read, July 4
For Him and my family, July 4
A Reader’s Brain, July 4
Mary Hake, July 5
Splashesofjoy, July 5
Vicky Sluiter, July 5
Texas Book-aholic, July 6
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 7
janicesbookreviews, July 7
Little Homeschool on the Prairie, July 8
Older & Smarter?, July 8
Quiet Quilter, July 9
Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 9
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a grand prize of a $20 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e57a/andre...
April 29, 2019
Jennifer has written another ripnroaring fun book!!
Hello Aunt Bitsy!! Nice to see you again!! Except we can do without the shotgun lol!!
The twins are just delightful, full of mischief and who knows what else!!
I just love them!
We all make mistakes. We all fall short of the Glory of God. None of has the right to judge the other person. I believe that is God's place.
Hello Aunt Bitsy!! Nice to see you again!! Except we can do without the shotgun lol!!
The twins are just delightful, full of mischief and who knows what else!!
I just love them!
We all make mistakes. We all fall short of the Glory of God. None of has the right to judge the other person. I believe that is God's place.
July 7, 2019
"I think we can safely assume that no boys are going to come poking around. I jumped the fence, I'm pregnant, and you have a shotgun."
This is Mary Coblenz's reply to Bitsy Weaver when Bitsy tells her that she can stay with her for a while but she doesn't want young men coming around. And it explains Mary's current situation in a nutshell. Two years ago she left her Amish community to live in the English world but she has now returned to Bienenstock, Wisconsin and she is unmarried, about to have a baby, and shunned by her own family. And even though Bitsy offers her love and acceptance, she is treated poorly by the others in the community. What follows is a story that should remind readers that we all have sinned, everyone deserves a second chance, and forgiveness should be offered to everyone.
Andrew Petersheim is one of the Amish who harshly judges Mary. As she tries to create a life for her and her baby, Andrew is very vocal in reminding her of her failure to live as a proper Amish lady should. I found it hard to like Andrew in the beginning and even though he denies being arrogant, he does admit that he is tall, strong, and a godly man and his mother thinks that 'Any girl would be blessed to get Andrew for a husband.' He also has very strong opinions about Mary's situation. 'What kind of girl didn't even feel remorse... for doing that? She acted as if she didn't care, as if she didn't see the need to repent.' Soon, however, we see Andrew beginning to mellow and he begins to recognize his own faults and realize that Mary deserves a second chance.
I really liked Mary and I admired her determination to make a home for her baby and to remain in a community that was so eager to judge her. Mary's willingness to forgive and her ability to look for the good was very admirable and I absolutely loved Bitsy Weaver who had lived as an Englisher for many years before returning to her Amish roots. She could be considered a little eccentric but she was the first to offer assistance to those in need and she was the perfect person to befriend Mary. She also wasn't afraid to defend Mary and she made sure Andrew understood this.
The eight-year-old Petersheim twins are also a great addition to this story. Family circumstances have left them without their own bedroom and they decide that their only hope is to find wives for their three older brothers. Their first attempt at matchmaking is finding a wife for their oldest brother Andrew and it is Mary who catches Benji and Alfie's eyes. These boys and Bitsy gave me several laugh-out-loud moments and I am hoping that I will find them in the next books of this new series, The Petersheim Brothers.
This book has a lot of humor but it is the faith-filled message that will remain with me. I realized that my initial dislike of Andrew's actions and reactions were in fact things I may have once been guilty of myself! This story reminded me that we humans are eager to judge and we often concentrate on each other's faults and shortcomings; instead, we need to focus on encouraging and helping those who have fallen. Or, as Andrew so wisely decided, 'Maybe their sins were worse than his. Maybe his sins were worse than theirs. Only Jesus knew that. Their job was to love and forgive each other.'
Jennifer Beckstrand has written a sweet, romantic , and heartwarming book and I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish and Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit Tours and NetGalley and I am voluntarily sharing my opinion in this review.
This is Mary Coblenz's reply to Bitsy Weaver when Bitsy tells her that she can stay with her for a while but she doesn't want young men coming around. And it explains Mary's current situation in a nutshell. Two years ago she left her Amish community to live in the English world but she has now returned to Bienenstock, Wisconsin and she is unmarried, about to have a baby, and shunned by her own family. And even though Bitsy offers her love and acceptance, she is treated poorly by the others in the community. What follows is a story that should remind readers that we all have sinned, everyone deserves a second chance, and forgiveness should be offered to everyone.
Andrew Petersheim is one of the Amish who harshly judges Mary. As she tries to create a life for her and her baby, Andrew is very vocal in reminding her of her failure to live as a proper Amish lady should. I found it hard to like Andrew in the beginning and even though he denies being arrogant, he does admit that he is tall, strong, and a godly man and his mother thinks that 'Any girl would be blessed to get Andrew for a husband.' He also has very strong opinions about Mary's situation. 'What kind of girl didn't even feel remorse... for doing that? She acted as if she didn't care, as if she didn't see the need to repent.' Soon, however, we see Andrew beginning to mellow and he begins to recognize his own faults and realize that Mary deserves a second chance.
I really liked Mary and I admired her determination to make a home for her baby and to remain in a community that was so eager to judge her. Mary's willingness to forgive and her ability to look for the good was very admirable and I absolutely loved Bitsy Weaver who had lived as an Englisher for many years before returning to her Amish roots. She could be considered a little eccentric but she was the first to offer assistance to those in need and she was the perfect person to befriend Mary. She also wasn't afraid to defend Mary and she made sure Andrew understood this.
The eight-year-old Petersheim twins are also a great addition to this story. Family circumstances have left them without their own bedroom and they decide that their only hope is to find wives for their three older brothers. Their first attempt at matchmaking is finding a wife for their oldest brother Andrew and it is Mary who catches Benji and Alfie's eyes. These boys and Bitsy gave me several laugh-out-loud moments and I am hoping that I will find them in the next books of this new series, The Petersheim Brothers.
This book has a lot of humor but it is the faith-filled message that will remain with me. I realized that my initial dislike of Andrew's actions and reactions were in fact things I may have once been guilty of myself! This story reminded me that we humans are eager to judge and we often concentrate on each other's faults and shortcomings; instead, we need to focus on encouraging and helping those who have fallen. Or, as Andrew so wisely decided, 'Maybe their sins were worse than his. Maybe his sins were worse than theirs. Only Jesus knew that. Their job was to love and forgive each other.'
Jennifer Beckstrand has written a sweet, romantic , and heartwarming book and I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish and Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit Tours and NetGalley and I am voluntarily sharing my opinion in this review.
July 6, 2019
This book angered me a lot as I read it. I understand that Mary has sinned when she became pregnant before marriage. Wasn’t it enough that her family shunned her, the father of her child deserted her and the community whispers about her? Just how much punishment does she deserve to make Andrew feel like has she has paid for her sins? They have some heated conversations and I admired Mary for not backing down. She realizes what she has done was wrong, but at some point forgiveness needs to come. God has forgiven her, so why can’t others? I’m not quite sure why Andrew is so bitter when it comes to Mary, but this scripture kept coming to my mind. “He without sin cast the first stone.”
Bitsy and Yost are a breath of fresh air as they welcome Mary into their home. They are there to help her and not judge her. Bitsy is a character with different colored hair, cats named Farrah Fawcett and honeybees swarming everywhere. She is carefree and welcoming to Mary in a sincere way. What a wonderful example they are to those who whisper and set in judgment. I wonder how many times the church has turned their back on someone who has sinned? We should lead them to repentance and show them unconditional love. The community sure wasn’t doing that for Mary. Mary lets Andrew know just how much she has suffered for her sin, but reminds him that God has forgiven her.
What I really liked about the story was how Andrew took a good look at himself and realized he was a sinner as well. His high and mighty attitude towards Mary was wrong and he knew he needed to change. It was so nice to watch his transformation and reach out to Mary for forgiveness. It is not an easy road for either of them, but it’s a road they must travel to rid themselves of pride, judgmental attitude and learn how to truly forgive.
Benji and Alfie are the comic relief in this book. They get into everything possible and it amazes me how they survive. I loved their childlike innocence and how they became friends with Mary without blinking an eye. Children can sure teach us a few things about accepting others. They have such big hearts and see people the way God does. We can sure learn a lesson from them. I couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for Mary for the way she was being treated by others. There are so many quick to judge Mary, but the perfect words came from Benji. " Are you in charge of her soul?" I laughed and then I had to repent. I have done the same thing as others. I have judged and talked about someone who was in sin. It was like I was happy they had got caught so no one would focus on my sins.
The book is a great lesson in forgiveness and judging others. I am glad I read this book and it made me angry. Why, you ask? Because it made me look at myself and examine my heart. How many times have I ignored someone because they were in sin? Why didn't I extend a hand and lead them to Jesus? I have read many books about judging others but this one really opened my eyes. The author addressed a subject we are all guilty of. Now it's time to ask forgiveness and start seeing people like Jesus does.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Bitsy and Yost are a breath of fresh air as they welcome Mary into their home. They are there to help her and not judge her. Bitsy is a character with different colored hair, cats named Farrah Fawcett and honeybees swarming everywhere. She is carefree and welcoming to Mary in a sincere way. What a wonderful example they are to those who whisper and set in judgment. I wonder how many times the church has turned their back on someone who has sinned? We should lead them to repentance and show them unconditional love. The community sure wasn’t doing that for Mary. Mary lets Andrew know just how much she has suffered for her sin, but reminds him that God has forgiven her.
What I really liked about the story was how Andrew took a good look at himself and realized he was a sinner as well. His high and mighty attitude towards Mary was wrong and he knew he needed to change. It was so nice to watch his transformation and reach out to Mary for forgiveness. It is not an easy road for either of them, but it’s a road they must travel to rid themselves of pride, judgmental attitude and learn how to truly forgive.
Benji and Alfie are the comic relief in this book. They get into everything possible and it amazes me how they survive. I loved their childlike innocence and how they became friends with Mary without blinking an eye. Children can sure teach us a few things about accepting others. They have such big hearts and see people the way God does. We can sure learn a lesson from them. I couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for Mary for the way she was being treated by others. There are so many quick to judge Mary, but the perfect words came from Benji. " Are you in charge of her soul?" I laughed and then I had to repent. I have done the same thing as others. I have judged and talked about someone who was in sin. It was like I was happy they had got caught so no one would focus on my sins.
The book is a great lesson in forgiveness and judging others. I am glad I read this book and it made me angry. Why, you ask? Because it made me look at myself and examine my heart. How many times have I ignored someone because they were in sin? Why didn't I extend a hand and lead them to Jesus? I have read many books about judging others but this one really opened my eyes. The author addressed a subject we are all guilty of. Now it's time to ask forgiveness and start seeing people like Jesus does.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
May 20, 2019
Well, that was a pleasant surprise.
I don't make it a hobby of reading Amish fiction. In fact, I might as well admit that Andrew is the first true book in the genre I've ever read. Which, of course, also means that this is my first book by Jennifer Beckstrand, which I guess doesn't really matter either way.
Andrew by Jennifer Beckstrand is a novel full of humor, honesty, and heart. It's about family and meekness and judgment and love. It's about forgiving people who aren't sorry and accepting apologies you'll never receive. It's about one of the most valuable lessons in the Christian life.
In C.S. Lewis's "Screwtape Proposes a Toast," it was noted that one of the most common and well-masked sins among the human race, the sin of hypocrisy, has hardly loosened its grip on any of our Christian hearts nowadays. Pharisees still prowl among us, and it takes real humility to admit that you're acting like one.
That said, I did love everything else about this book as well. The entire plot was basically composed of two mischievous little imps scheming ways to get their oldest brother, Andrew, and the disgraced Mary Coblenz to fall in love and get married-- just so the twins can move out of the cellar. You would have thought they could have cooked up a less dramatic plan, but where would be the fun in that, hmm?
The characters were so much fun. Of course there were the twins, Alfie and Benji, who are trying way too hard to get their brother and their new friend to fall in love. This results in all sorts of hilarious scrapes which do indeed draw Andrew and Mary together in countless rescue attempts. Which was so much fun to read. I chuckled quite a lot throughout this book, and that's some accomplishment.
Andrew and Mary were amazing characters as well. Andrew is, at first, convinced that Mary-- who recently returned from the Englischer world, unmarried and pregnant-- a terrible and unrepentant sinner who deserves all the shame and reproach the rest of the community is giving her. Mary is patient and sweet, and through her kindness, Andrew realizes that it's the community who's been giving her too much of a hard time. Through the trials of her disgrace and her parents' abandonment, Mary learns to forgive and remain joyful in the Lord's grace, no matter how dreadful her situation may be.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes fun, sweet, but not totally light-hearted romances. The Amish setting only gave it an even more delightful quality. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series, and how Alfie and Benji intend to get their girl-shy brother Abraham out of the house!
I don't make it a hobby of reading Amish fiction. In fact, I might as well admit that Andrew is the first true book in the genre I've ever read. Which, of course, also means that this is my first book by Jennifer Beckstrand, which I guess doesn't really matter either way.
Andrew by Jennifer Beckstrand is a novel full of humor, honesty, and heart. It's about family and meekness and judgment and love. It's about forgiving people who aren't sorry and accepting apologies you'll never receive. It's about one of the most valuable lessons in the Christian life.
In C.S. Lewis's "Screwtape Proposes a Toast," it was noted that one of the most common and well-masked sins among the human race, the sin of hypocrisy, has hardly loosened its grip on any of our Christian hearts nowadays. Pharisees still prowl among us, and it takes real humility to admit that you're acting like one.
That said, I did love everything else about this book as well. The entire plot was basically composed of two mischievous little imps scheming ways to get their oldest brother, Andrew, and the disgraced Mary Coblenz to fall in love and get married-- just so the twins can move out of the cellar. You would have thought they could have cooked up a less dramatic plan, but where would be the fun in that, hmm?
The characters were so much fun. Of course there were the twins, Alfie and Benji, who are trying way too hard to get their brother and their new friend to fall in love. This results in all sorts of hilarious scrapes which do indeed draw Andrew and Mary together in countless rescue attempts. Which was so much fun to read. I chuckled quite a lot throughout this book, and that's some accomplishment.
Andrew and Mary were amazing characters as well. Andrew is, at first, convinced that Mary-- who recently returned from the Englischer world, unmarried and pregnant-- a terrible and unrepentant sinner who deserves all the shame and reproach the rest of the community is giving her. Mary is patient and sweet, and through her kindness, Andrew realizes that it's the community who's been giving her too much of a hard time. Through the trials of her disgrace and her parents' abandonment, Mary learns to forgive and remain joyful in the Lord's grace, no matter how dreadful her situation may be.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes fun, sweet, but not totally light-hearted romances. The Amish setting only gave it an even more delightful quality. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series, and how Alfie and Benji intend to get their girl-shy brother Abraham out of the house!
July 6, 2019
Returning to the Honeybee Farm is always delightful especially when the first person who greets you is Bitsy Weaver. We met the unconventional, sassy but sweet Bitsy in the Honeybee Sisters series and I absolutely adored her and I still do. However, there are two new equally adorable characters who stole my heart in this book, Alfie and Benji, 8 year old twin boys who had me laughing at their antics throughout.
They are extremely busy little boys, they help as much as they can in the family peanut butter business, they are devising a plan to get their room back after having to sleep in the cellar to make room for their grandparents which leads them to try their hand at matchmaking so they can get their room back. Because cellars are apparently quite frightening with the darkness and spiders, so obviously they cannot possibly stay down there for very long.
So, they decide to set up their older brother, Andrew with Mary who happens to be staying with Bitsy, what could possibly go wrong? Pretty much everything including but not limited to encounters with Bitsy, her cats, confusion as to why Mary isn't welcomed with open arms by some members in their community and their desire for everything to be secret, when things really aren't such a secret. They are such comical little boys with pure hearts. Mary is a wonderful young lady who made a mistake by leaving her community for the English world but when she comes back (as an unwed expectant mother) she is treated poorly by several people. There are a few times when Andrew came to her defense that made me love him but then there were times when I wanted to shake him and tell him to stop being so judgmental.
As much as I loved the humor in this book, I loved the message of family, faith and forgiveness even more. I am looking forward to the next book in the series because I have a feeling if the twins are successful at marrying off their older brothers, they will each have their own rooms and can sleep soundly far away from the cellar.
Overall, this highly entertaining and well crafted novel is one that I absolutely loved. The characters are well developed, the pace is perfect and this is what I consider quality Amish reading. I suggest settling in your comfiest seat with a cold beverage and a snack because once you start reading this book you wont want to stop. You will laugh, you will get a little teary but you will be glad you chose to spend time with The Petersheim Brothers and their friends.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
They are extremely busy little boys, they help as much as they can in the family peanut butter business, they are devising a plan to get their room back after having to sleep in the cellar to make room for their grandparents which leads them to try their hand at matchmaking so they can get their room back. Because cellars are apparently quite frightening with the darkness and spiders, so obviously they cannot possibly stay down there for very long.
So, they decide to set up their older brother, Andrew with Mary who happens to be staying with Bitsy, what could possibly go wrong? Pretty much everything including but not limited to encounters with Bitsy, her cats, confusion as to why Mary isn't welcomed with open arms by some members in their community and their desire for everything to be secret, when things really aren't such a secret. They are such comical little boys with pure hearts. Mary is a wonderful young lady who made a mistake by leaving her community for the English world but when she comes back (as an unwed expectant mother) she is treated poorly by several people. There are a few times when Andrew came to her defense that made me love him but then there were times when I wanted to shake him and tell him to stop being so judgmental.
As much as I loved the humor in this book, I loved the message of family, faith and forgiveness even more. I am looking forward to the next book in the series because I have a feeling if the twins are successful at marrying off their older brothers, they will each have their own rooms and can sleep soundly far away from the cellar.
Overall, this highly entertaining and well crafted novel is one that I absolutely loved. The characters are well developed, the pace is perfect and this is what I consider quality Amish reading. I suggest settling in your comfiest seat with a cold beverage and a snack because once you start reading this book you wont want to stop. You will laugh, you will get a little teary but you will be glad you chose to spend time with The Petersheim Brothers and their friends.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
July 2, 2019
A couple of years ago I got addicted to Amish romance novels. "Andrew" is Jennifer Beckstrand's book one of the series, The Petersheim Brothers.
We are taken into Andrew Petersheim life, a single Amish man.
The plot is composed of two mischievous brothers, Alfie, and Benji who are 8-year-old twins. The twins decided to put a plan together in hopes of getting rid of their oldest brother, Andrew, so they can move out of the cellar. They planned to have Mary Coblenz fall in love and get married. They become matchmakers. You will have to read it to find out if the brothers get caught.
Andrew judges Mary and believes she should be shunned. He believes she is a sinner. He is a good man with a big heart. Does is he stop judging her unfairly?
Mary, a nineteen-year-old, who returns from the Englischer world to her community unmarried and pregnant. She put trust into her ex-boyfriend but he betrayed it. Her parents refused to let her back into her family home. Through the trials of her disgrace and her parents' abandonment, Mary learns to forgive and put the Lord in her life to get through some rough times. Bitsy, one of the twins, welcomes her with open arms. If it wasn't for him she would be homeless. Mary is terrified of falling in love since the last relationship didn't go as planned.
Backstraund's writing style is well done. I found the pace to really good. I have read many Amish books and they always have many parts that drag, but this book didn't have any slow parts. It also contains a lot of dialogue helping me feel like I know them.
Beckstrand's characters contain many relatable characteristics. Even her secondary characters are well thought out. Mary is a very brave woman having to deal with the community. Mammi, a mother-in-law. Jerry a fireman with a secret, Aunt Bitsy who has blue hair and lots of cats.
This book contains some really great life lessons and inspiration. "Andrew" deals with choices, hypocrisy, family issues, illness, love, trust, forgiveness, redemption, faith, and even abortion. The biggest tip in life that hit home, in this book, is forgiving people who aren't sorry and accepting apologies you'll never receive. It also contains lots of scriptures. It also contains some moments of humor. The romance in this book is clean romance.
I highly recommend reading this book. Beckstrand did an amazing job of getting the reader into the life of Andrew and Mary. This book would make an amazing Hallmark movie series. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
We are taken into Andrew Petersheim life, a single Amish man.
The plot is composed of two mischievous brothers, Alfie, and Benji who are 8-year-old twins. The twins decided to put a plan together in hopes of getting rid of their oldest brother, Andrew, so they can move out of the cellar. They planned to have Mary Coblenz fall in love and get married. They become matchmakers. You will have to read it to find out if the brothers get caught.
Andrew judges Mary and believes she should be shunned. He believes she is a sinner. He is a good man with a big heart. Does is he stop judging her unfairly?
Mary, a nineteen-year-old, who returns from the Englischer world to her community unmarried and pregnant. She put trust into her ex-boyfriend but he betrayed it. Her parents refused to let her back into her family home. Through the trials of her disgrace and her parents' abandonment, Mary learns to forgive and put the Lord in her life to get through some rough times. Bitsy, one of the twins, welcomes her with open arms. If it wasn't for him she would be homeless. Mary is terrified of falling in love since the last relationship didn't go as planned.
Backstraund's writing style is well done. I found the pace to really good. I have read many Amish books and they always have many parts that drag, but this book didn't have any slow parts. It also contains a lot of dialogue helping me feel like I know them.
Beckstrand's characters contain many relatable characteristics. Even her secondary characters are well thought out. Mary is a very brave woman having to deal with the community. Mammi, a mother-in-law. Jerry a fireman with a secret, Aunt Bitsy who has blue hair and lots of cats.
This book contains some really great life lessons and inspiration. "Andrew" deals with choices, hypocrisy, family issues, illness, love, trust, forgiveness, redemption, faith, and even abortion. The biggest tip in life that hit home, in this book, is forgiving people who aren't sorry and accepting apologies you'll never receive. It also contains lots of scriptures. It also contains some moments of humor. The romance in this book is clean romance.
I highly recommend reading this book. Beckstrand did an amazing job of getting the reader into the life of Andrew and Mary. This book would make an amazing Hallmark movie series. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
July 5, 2019
My thoughts:
This was such a fun book! I really enjoyed reading it. It’s been a bit since I’ve read a good Amish fiction novel and I loved getting to read this one. Jennifer Beckstrand is a new author to me and now I’m wanting to read her Honey Bee sister series as well. I’m looking forward to reading about the other brothers.
Hands down favorite characters were the twins. So full of fun and life. Also, who doesn’t love an eight-year-old who doesn’t change his shirt for months! I can see my kiddos doing that, in fact, I think they might have tried it before. I’m actually sure of it because I have had to tell my 11-year-old to go change his shirt after several days of wearing it!
I felt so bad for Mary with the way she was treated by her community. But then as I thought of it I realized that this is so common. We as a society think that we should punish or ostracize people with behaviors we don’t agree with. That’s not going to help them want to change now, is it?!
Andrew, well, he got quite an awakening! I laughed quite a bit at him. He has to come to some serious realizations not only about Mary and her sin but also about himself and all the sin he has done through his life too.
And then there is the peanut butter business. Andrew hates being known as the Peanut Butter Brothers, he doesn’t like peanut butter, he doesn’t want to make it. His love is woodworking. But he only does that in secret so that he doesn’t hurt his mother.
So much going on in this one novel!
Andrew is a fun fast-paced novel. I read it quickly. It was such a fun read too. I loved it. The characters grabbed my heart and my attention and I can’t wait to go back and visit them. I have a feeling that they’re some of my new best friends now. And guys. I cannot wait to hear more about those ornery twins. They definitely remind me of my own boys and make me a little weary for the future of my three-year-old boy who could be both of the twins in one!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
This was such a fun book! I really enjoyed reading it. It’s been a bit since I’ve read a good Amish fiction novel and I loved getting to read this one. Jennifer Beckstrand is a new author to me and now I’m wanting to read her Honey Bee sister series as well. I’m looking forward to reading about the other brothers.
Hands down favorite characters were the twins. So full of fun and life. Also, who doesn’t love an eight-year-old who doesn’t change his shirt for months! I can see my kiddos doing that, in fact, I think they might have tried it before. I’m actually sure of it because I have had to tell my 11-year-old to go change his shirt after several days of wearing it!
I felt so bad for Mary with the way she was treated by her community. But then as I thought of it I realized that this is so common. We as a society think that we should punish or ostracize people with behaviors we don’t agree with. That’s not going to help them want to change now, is it?!
Andrew, well, he got quite an awakening! I laughed quite a bit at him. He has to come to some serious realizations not only about Mary and her sin but also about himself and all the sin he has done through his life too.
And then there is the peanut butter business. Andrew hates being known as the Peanut Butter Brothers, he doesn’t like peanut butter, he doesn’t want to make it. His love is woodworking. But he only does that in secret so that he doesn’t hurt his mother.
So much going on in this one novel!
Andrew is a fun fast-paced novel. I read it quickly. It was such a fun read too. I loved it. The characters grabbed my heart and my attention and I can’t wait to go back and visit them. I have a feeling that they’re some of my new best friends now. And guys. I cannot wait to hear more about those ornery twins. They definitely remind me of my own boys and make me a little weary for the future of my three-year-old boy who could be both of the twins in one!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
January 7, 2023
Okay so this is my first ever Jennifer Bekstrand book and also my first Amish romance book in general. This one was really good and a fun story. In fact, I actually now know Jennifer Beckstrand since she's my bishop's (pastor's) wife in a sort of new ward (congregation) I've been in since August of last year and found out around then she was an author and I was finally able to start one of her books. When I had a copy of the paperback from the library with me in a church bag of mine to remind myself to bring up how I found out she was an author, and I told her I already had a library copy of one of her books with me and she asked me which book it was a few months ago and I showed her this one. It was fun to see her light up and get all excited about this one and told me Andrew in this story has the cutest brothers and were hilarious, so it was fun to also see her love her own characters.
I have to agree Andrew's brothers were absolutely adorable and hilarious that's for sure! Alfie and Benji totally stole the story/show and yet overall, the story had a great moral to it about giving people second chances despite certain mistakes they've made when that person truly feels remorse and sorrowful for what they went through and is trying hard to become better like Mary in this story.
Mary did leave the Amish life for a few years and came back pregnant and when she arrived home, her mother slammed the door in her face and so it resulted in Mary to turn to another Amish member in the community who once left Amish country life to the real world and came back again because Mary knew this particular member would understand her predicament and so Mary was taken in by a good Samaritan.
As for Andrew meeting Mary and how that happens, well, you'll just have to read this for yourself and see why his 8-year-old twin brothers were playing matchmaker with Andrew and I have no doubt later with their other brother's Abraham and Austin I'm sure. In a nutshell, there's more to Andrew and Mary's story than meets the eye and one you'll just have to find out for yourself to see how that turns out because I absolutely enjoyed their story a lot. Now I'm excited to get to the next two books when I get a chance to listen to them and also to read and/or listen to more of Jennifer Beckstrand's books.
I have to agree Andrew's brothers were absolutely adorable and hilarious that's for sure! Alfie and Benji totally stole the story/show and yet overall, the story had a great moral to it about giving people second chances despite certain mistakes they've made when that person truly feels remorse and sorrowful for what they went through and is trying hard to become better like Mary in this story.
Mary did leave the Amish life for a few years and came back pregnant and when she arrived home, her mother slammed the door in her face and so it resulted in Mary to turn to another Amish member in the community who once left Amish country life to the real world and came back again because Mary knew this particular member would understand her predicament and so Mary was taken in by a good Samaritan.
As for Andrew meeting Mary and how that happens, well, you'll just have to read this for yourself and see why his 8-year-old twin brothers were playing matchmaker with Andrew and I have no doubt later with their other brother's Abraham and Austin I'm sure. In a nutshell, there's more to Andrew and Mary's story than meets the eye and one you'll just have to find out for yourself to see how that turns out because I absolutely enjoyed their story a lot. Now I'm excited to get to the next two books when I get a chance to listen to them and also to read and/or listen to more of Jennifer Beckstrand's books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews