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Amish Mail Order Grooms #1
Marrying Matthew
CBA bestselling author Kelly Long writes deeply emotional Amish romances that explore the intricacies of the human heart and the joys of a simpler way of life. A captivating and sweet Amish romance set in a tiny Appalachian community starts off this new series that readers of Beverly Lewis will devour—where some young women are determined to wed on their own terms, and even though they may not have been looking for true love, they will certainly find their happily ever after. . .
An Amish mail-order groom willing to live in remote Appalachia. Appearance must be tolerable, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks . . .
Everyone in Blackberry Falls knows that Tabitha Stolfus is heir to her daed's wood carving company. To find a man who values more than her purse, Tabitha creates an ad and sends it far from home. But from her first meeting with handsome would-be groom Matthew King, Tabitha realizes this may not be the uncomplicated arrangement she expected.
Matthew's true desire is an apprenticeship, not a frau. A talented woodworker, he longs to study with the great Herr Stolfus. Yet it's more than the kindness and warmth of this mountain community that makes Matthew regret his deception. Tabitha--beautiful, intelligent, resourceful--is all he could ever want in a wife. Can a real marriage ever take root when there are so many secrets between them?
An Amish mail-order groom willing to live in remote Appalachia. Appearance must be tolerable, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks . . .
Everyone in Blackberry Falls knows that Tabitha Stolfus is heir to her daed's wood carving company. To find a man who values more than her purse, Tabitha creates an ad and sends it far from home. But from her first meeting with handsome would-be groom Matthew King, Tabitha realizes this may not be the uncomplicated arrangement she expected.
Matthew's true desire is an apprenticeship, not a frau. A talented woodworker, he longs to study with the great Herr Stolfus. Yet it's more than the kindness and warmth of this mountain community that makes Matthew regret his deception. Tabitha--beautiful, intelligent, resourceful--is all he could ever want in a wife. Can a real marriage ever take root when there are so many secrets between them?
272 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published December 1, 2020
18 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 5, 2021
Blackberry Falls, PA Amish woman knows her father expects her to marry and her husband will take over his wood carving company. Having no interest in marrying she decides to put an ad in the paper and look for a mail order groom, one who wants her for herself and not because he'll take over her father's business.
When Matthew King shows up because of her ad it seems perfect to fit her needs. Marrying Tabitha Stolfus for herself is not what Matthew has in mind though it's to have an apprenticeship from her father to further his wood working skills. She is easy on the eyes though and he finds himself stealing kisses from her. Unknown to each of them they both have an ulterior motive for the marriage. Can this relationship based on secrets last ?
There is another side romance going on, a secondary characters couple that I'd love to see a book on them as well. I really enjoyed Matthew as he's a very charming young man who is tender and sweet and woos Tabitha in all the right ways.
Tabitha's grandmother is a real firecracker and she feels entitled to say whatever she wants at her age. She is a hoot!
Very enjoyable book!
Pub Date 01 Dec 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
When Matthew King shows up because of her ad it seems perfect to fit her needs. Marrying Tabitha Stolfus for herself is not what Matthew has in mind though it's to have an apprenticeship from her father to further his wood working skills. She is easy on the eyes though and he finds himself stealing kisses from her. Unknown to each of them they both have an ulterior motive for the marriage. Can this relationship based on secrets last ?
There is another side romance going on, a secondary characters couple that I'd love to see a book on them as well. I really enjoyed Matthew as he's a very charming young man who is tender and sweet and woos Tabitha in all the right ways.
Tabitha's grandmother is a real firecracker and she feels entitled to say whatever she wants at her age. She is a hoot!
Very enjoyable book!
Pub Date 01 Dec 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 31, 2020
First sentence: WANTED: An Amish Mail-Order Groom. Age 20–35. Must be willing to live in remote Appalachia and build life in said community. Must love books, horses, and possess good teeth. Appearance must be tolerable at least, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks. Must understand a woman’s sensibilities and not be judgmental. Must realize that Gott is the Third in a marriage. Reply to . . .
Premise/plot: Tabitha Stolfus, our heroine, has placed an ad for a mail-order-groom. She hopes to be married before her father--a very successful businessman (wood carving is his business) returns home. He wants her married, no question. But she's not convinced that he would approve of her advertising for a husband. The man who responds to her ad and comes to Blackberry Falls is none other than Matthew King. King has his own reasons for responding to the ad--namely he wants to learn woodcarving from Tabitha's father. Will these two fall in love after their marriage?
My thoughts: I loved the premise of this one. Not so much the Amish aspect of it but the mail order aspect of it and use of the marriage of convenience trope. Reading the description made me think I'd enjoy this one. (Even though as I mentioned Amish fiction isn't my favorite or best sub-genre or sub-sub-genre.)
Can you feel a "but" coming???? BUT. What I wasn't expecting was a SMUTTY Amish romance. It is a bit of a puzzlement, in my opinion, granted I am not representative of every reader. Perhaps there's an audience of romance readers that would welcome the Amish/religious aspects of it (the God-talk) that are still looking for a liberal dose of smut. I would venture a guess that I'm in the minority of romance readers. That is by preferring CLEAN or clean-ish romance novels I am in the minority. The majority of romance being published is smutty and I would guess that's how the majority of romance readers want it. It sells. I didn't realize there was a market for smutty Amish fiction though!!! Maybe this isn't the only one? Maybe there really is a whole sub-sub-sub genre of smutty Amish/Mennonite romance novels out there??? But it still felt odd to me.
There's another but coming. But I will say that it was nice to have a SECOND love story added in. And the mystery element was also nice.
About the rating: I'd give it 2 1/2 stars if I could. I can't say it's three stars. But it's better than just two stars. It's right there in the middle in the five star system. I do wish there was the option to give a half star rating mainly between two and three.
Premise/plot: Tabitha Stolfus, our heroine, has placed an ad for a mail-order-groom. She hopes to be married before her father--a very successful businessman (wood carving is his business) returns home. He wants her married, no question. But she's not convinced that he would approve of her advertising for a husband. The man who responds to her ad and comes to Blackberry Falls is none other than Matthew King. King has his own reasons for responding to the ad--namely he wants to learn woodcarving from Tabitha's father. Will these two fall in love after their marriage?
My thoughts: I loved the premise of this one. Not so much the Amish aspect of it but the mail order aspect of it and use of the marriage of convenience trope. Reading the description made me think I'd enjoy this one. (Even though as I mentioned Amish fiction isn't my favorite or best sub-genre or sub-sub-genre.)
Can you feel a "but" coming???? BUT. What I wasn't expecting was a SMUTTY Amish romance. It is a bit of a puzzlement, in my opinion, granted I am not representative of every reader. Perhaps there's an audience of romance readers that would welcome the Amish/religious aspects of it (the God-talk) that are still looking for a liberal dose of smut. I would venture a guess that I'm in the minority of romance readers. That is by preferring CLEAN or clean-ish romance novels I am in the minority. The majority of romance being published is smutty and I would guess that's how the majority of romance readers want it. It sells. I didn't realize there was a market for smutty Amish fiction though!!! Maybe this isn't the only one? Maybe there really is a whole sub-sub-sub genre of smutty Amish/Mennonite romance novels out there??? But it still felt odd to me.
There's another but coming. But I will say that it was nice to have a SECOND love story added in. And the mystery element was also nice.
About the rating: I'd give it 2 1/2 stars if I could. I can't say it's three stars. But it's better than just two stars. It's right there in the middle in the five star system. I do wish there was the option to give a half star rating mainly between two and three.
dnf
June 20, 2021I just could not get into this author's writing style. It was very choppy, jumping from scene to scene without developing the scene or characters. It felt more like reading an early draft of a story. The premise of the story was intriguing but I wasn't able to make it far before giving up.
December 17, 2020
Marrying Matthew by Kelly Long is the first book in The Amish Mail Order Grooms series. Marrying Matthew not your typical Amish novel. I liked the unusual premise of a mail order Amish groom. I enjoyed the descriptions of Blackberry Falls, Pennsylvania. There are a variety of quirky residents with Bishop Kore leading the pack. I like that there is a mystery which adds depth and suspense. I was turned off, though, by the sexual innuendo and intimate situations. I read Amish and Christian novels because they do not contain that type of content. I was surprised to find it in Marrying Matthew (and so much of it). I was puzzled about the time period. While in Blackberry Falls it seems that we have stepped back in time. I thought it was the early 1800s from the way things were described and the way the Amish spoke. But then they went to the local hospital and were able to watch television. If this had been a clean, Amish novel, I would have enjoyed Marrying Matthew. It has a great premise along with mystery, suspense, a charming town, humor, unique characters, and suspense. If you enjoy explicit romance novels, then you will enjoy Marrying Matthew much more than I did.
December 13, 2020
Kelly Long has written another Amish novel. One I really enjoyed and loved. This may be my favorite one hers yet. I love her style of writing. I especially like how she brings her characters to life like Matthew, his friends and family
I like how she isn't afraid to write the way life is supposed to go.
I didn't want to come back to the real world but I knew I had to.
I was sad when this book ended.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I like how she isn't afraid to write the way life is supposed to go.
I didn't want to come back to the real world but I knew I had to.
I was sad when this book ended.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2024
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was my first time reading an Amish Fiction Novel by Kelly Long so i wasnt sure what to expect but i ended up really like this book. It was definately different from other Amish Fiction Novels ive read as i can't recall reading one about Amish Mail Order Grooms before.
The Characters were fun and interesting to read about. Anke, Abner, Tabitha and Matthew were definately my favorites. I loved learning about their backgrounds and more about the culture of Pennsylvania Amish since its different from NY Amish.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Blackberry Falls, PA while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Good Book 1 in this Amish Fiction Series!! Can't wait to read Book 2 and more by Kelly in the future!!
Review:
This was my first time reading an Amish Fiction Novel by Kelly Long so i wasnt sure what to expect but i ended up really like this book. It was definately different from other Amish Fiction Novels ive read as i can't recall reading one about Amish Mail Order Grooms before.
The Characters were fun and interesting to read about. Anke, Abner, Tabitha and Matthew were definately my favorites. I loved learning about their backgrounds and more about the culture of Pennsylvania Amish since its different from NY Amish.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Blackberry Falls, PA while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Good Book 1 in this Amish Fiction Series!! Can't wait to read Book 2 and more by Kelly in the future!!
December 1, 2020
Marrying Matthew by Kelly Long
The Amish Mail Order Grooms Book 1
Captivating Amish romance set in a tiny Appalachian community—where some young women are determined to wed on their own terms . . .
Wanted: An Amish mail-order groom willing to live in remote Appalachia. Appearance must be tolerable, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks . . .
Everyone in Blackberry Falls knows that Tabitha Stolfus is heir to her daed’s wood carving company. To find a man who values more than her purse, Tabitha creates an ad and sends it far from home. But from her first meeting with handsome would-be groom Matthew King, Tabitha realizes this may not be the uncomplicated arrangement she expected.
Matthew’s true desire is an apprenticeship, not a frau. A talented woodworker, he longs to study with the great Herr Stolfus. Yet it’s more than the kindness and warmth of this mountain community that makes Matthew regret his deception. Tabitha—beautiful, intelligent, resourceful—is all he could ever want in a wife. Can a real marriage ever take root when there are so many secrets between them?
This is Tabitha Stolfus and Matthew King's story.
WANTED: An Amish Mail-Order Groom. Age 20–35. Must be willing to live in remote Appalachia and build life in said community. Must love books, horses, and possess good teeth. Appearance must be tolerable at least, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks. Must understand a woman’s sensibilities and not be judgmental. Must realize that Gott is the Third in a marriage. Reply to . . .
Twenty-year-old Tabitha Stolfus knew that she was both the sole heir of her fater’s company and his sole lament.
“If only you’d been born a buwe,” he’d wail at times. “Or if only you’d marry! Why can’t you marry, Tabby? And why must you be so headstrong?”
He was here because of her fater’s woodworking—nee other reason. As I told my bruder . . . she’s incidental and only that. Still, it was difficult to dismiss her beauty, and he watched her perfectly formed lips closely as she prepared to speak.
“According to tradition, a mail-order groom . . . is prepared to marry upon arrival and the meeting of his bride.” She lowered her voice. “Now, tell me, do you find me adequate, Herr King?”
“It doesn’t matter. I’m sick of pounding out the most basic of furniture. I want to learn what only her fater can teach—the art and craftsmanship of woodworking. And Herr Stolfus doesn’t favor taking on apprentices. Marrying the girl is incidental. . . .”
I highly recommend reading.
Marrying Matthew by Kelly Long is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Kelly Long.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
The Amish Mail Order Grooms Book 1
Captivating Amish romance set in a tiny Appalachian community—where some young women are determined to wed on their own terms . . .
Wanted: An Amish mail-order groom willing to live in remote Appalachia. Appearance must be tolerable, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks . . .
Everyone in Blackberry Falls knows that Tabitha Stolfus is heir to her daed’s wood carving company. To find a man who values more than her purse, Tabitha creates an ad and sends it far from home. But from her first meeting with handsome would-be groom Matthew King, Tabitha realizes this may not be the uncomplicated arrangement she expected.
Matthew’s true desire is an apprenticeship, not a frau. A talented woodworker, he longs to study with the great Herr Stolfus. Yet it’s more than the kindness and warmth of this mountain community that makes Matthew regret his deception. Tabitha—beautiful, intelligent, resourceful—is all he could ever want in a wife. Can a real marriage ever take root when there are so many secrets between them?
This is Tabitha Stolfus and Matthew King's story.
WANTED: An Amish Mail-Order Groom. Age 20–35. Must be willing to live in remote Appalachia and build life in said community. Must love books, horses, and possess good teeth. Appearance must be tolerable at least, though bride would favor a gut mind over looks. Must understand a woman’s sensibilities and not be judgmental. Must realize that Gott is the Third in a marriage. Reply to . . .
Twenty-year-old Tabitha Stolfus knew that she was both the sole heir of her fater’s company and his sole lament.
“If only you’d been born a buwe,” he’d wail at times. “Or if only you’d marry! Why can’t you marry, Tabby? And why must you be so headstrong?”
He was here because of her fater’s woodworking—nee other reason. As I told my bruder . . . she’s incidental and only that. Still, it was difficult to dismiss her beauty, and he watched her perfectly formed lips closely as she prepared to speak.
“According to tradition, a mail-order groom . . . is prepared to marry upon arrival and the meeting of his bride.” She lowered her voice. “Now, tell me, do you find me adequate, Herr King?”
“It doesn’t matter. I’m sick of pounding out the most basic of furniture. I want to learn what only her fater can teach—the art and craftsmanship of woodworking. And Herr Stolfus doesn’t favor taking on apprentices. Marrying the girl is incidental. . . .”
I highly recommend reading.
Marrying Matthew by Kelly Long is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Kelly Long.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 20, 2020
Marrying Matthew is an outstanding book written by Kelly Long in her new series, The Amish Mail Ordered Groom. This story takes place in the wooded mountains called Blackberry Falls. The very first pages caught my interest because of the strange way to seek a groom. The author has developed some very unusual characters but I couldn't help but find them fascinating. This story takes so many twist that I found it hard to put down. The author touches on some very sensitive subjects love, physical abuse, murder, and acceptance for more than one reason. As the story starts out a young Amish man is headed to meet a very wealthy young Amish woman to marry. He hides a secret but then so does she. Her father has been parading young men before her to we'd so he could have a son to leave his large lumber mill to.
Matthew King wants nothing more than to apprentice with Herr Stolfus and Tabitha Stolfus is looking to quickly marry so that Matthew doesn't realize how wealthy she is. As they both start down this crazy path they don't understand where it will lead. If they ever reach a true marriage is very doubtful. There is another underlying story as well between Tabitha's uncle and her caretaker. Anika has cared for Tabitha all her life and has carried a very dark secret all her life but when Abner, Tabitha's uncle finds himself falling for Anika the road to love is very doubtful but Abner refuses to give up. I really enjoyed this story and the way each character plays a significant roll. There is even an old Bishop who speaks crazy stuff daily but on church Sundays is very well spoken. He adds great humor to the story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Kelly Long on an amazing start of a new series for her readers enjoyment. I have read the beginning of the next story and am excited for its release.
Matthew King wants nothing more than to apprentice with Herr Stolfus and Tabitha Stolfus is looking to quickly marry so that Matthew doesn't realize how wealthy she is. As they both start down this crazy path they don't understand where it will lead. If they ever reach a true marriage is very doubtful. There is another underlying story as well between Tabitha's uncle and her caretaker. Anika has cared for Tabitha all her life and has carried a very dark secret all her life but when Abner, Tabitha's uncle finds himself falling for Anika the road to love is very doubtful but Abner refuses to give up. I really enjoyed this story and the way each character plays a significant roll. There is even an old Bishop who speaks crazy stuff daily but on church Sundays is very well spoken. He adds great humor to the story.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Kelly Long on an amazing start of a new series for her readers enjoyment. I have read the beginning of the next story and am excited for its release.
November 30, 2020
I absolutely LOVED this novel. A very different story, in the Amish genre, this book was a "can't put it down, until I'm finished"!! Now, I can't wait for the second installment, in this series!
Tabitha Stolfus, a strong willed Amish woman, has listened to her father's wish for her marriage for far too long!! She has taken to putting an advertisement, in a publication, for a mail order HUSBAND!! What a great take on the "mail order" way of marriage. She gets an answer from Matthew King who comes right out to be her spouse. He knows of her father's business as he is a woodworker who greatly desires to apprentice under Mr. Stolfus.
What a journey this story takes....lies, deception, fear, intentional accidents and a trip down the twisted road of love. Can Tabitha live with Matthew's marriage stipulations....can Matthew live with Tabitha's unique personality? It is a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I see a review that spoke of "graphic intimacy".....there is nothing graphic, only innuendo and where your mind takes you. I did not find it to be objectionable but within the boundaries of a clean Amish novel. It may stretch the limits, but it is clean but fun!!
Grab this book, a nice warm afghan, a comfortable chair and the drink of your choice to spend a wonderfully fun night reading a great novel.
Tabitha Stolfus, a strong willed Amish woman, has listened to her father's wish for her marriage for far too long!! She has taken to putting an advertisement, in a publication, for a mail order HUSBAND!! What a great take on the "mail order" way of marriage. She gets an answer from Matthew King who comes right out to be her spouse. He knows of her father's business as he is a woodworker who greatly desires to apprentice under Mr. Stolfus.
What a journey this story takes....lies, deception, fear, intentional accidents and a trip down the twisted road of love. Can Tabitha live with Matthew's marriage stipulations....can Matthew live with Tabitha's unique personality? It is a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I see a review that spoke of "graphic intimacy".....there is nothing graphic, only innuendo and where your mind takes you. I did not find it to be objectionable but within the boundaries of a clean Amish novel. It may stretch the limits, but it is clean but fun!!
Grab this book, a nice warm afghan, a comfortable chair and the drink of your choice to spend a wonderfully fun night reading a great novel.
December 10, 2020
Getting married takes a day. Being married takes a lifetime.
Tabitha living in the Amish mountain community knew that her father wanted his only daughter married. Married in that he would have a son to carry on the family business. Tabitha wanted marriage in her own own terms and sent out for a mail order groom. Matthew King had his own terms. He wanted to learn from the best in wood working and knew Tabitha's father would be the means to the end. They both got more than they bargained for.
Both Tabitha and Matthew were developed nicely in this romantic prose. They both were deep in what is right and in loyalty to those that they loved. Tabitha and Matthew both had secrets that they were wanting to reveal in their own time but faith always as its own timing that always makes for a deeper impact. The other characters in the community made for a community that you long for. It wasn't perfect but it was true.
The relationship between Matthew and Tabitha also was a savory peel of what they were made of. How they got to know and ultimately trust each other for a real marriage. This trust lead to a support of who God created them to be. A great Amish romance.
A Special thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Tabitha living in the Amish mountain community knew that her father wanted his only daughter married. Married in that he would have a son to carry on the family business. Tabitha wanted marriage in her own own terms and sent out for a mail order groom. Matthew King had his own terms. He wanted to learn from the best in wood working and knew Tabitha's father would be the means to the end. They both got more than they bargained for.
Both Tabitha and Matthew were developed nicely in this romantic prose. They both were deep in what is right and in loyalty to those that they loved. Tabitha and Matthew both had secrets that they were wanting to reveal in their own time but faith always as its own timing that always makes for a deeper impact. The other characters in the community made for a community that you long for. It wasn't perfect but it was true.
The relationship between Matthew and Tabitha also was a savory peel of what they were made of. How they got to know and ultimately trust each other for a real marriage. This trust lead to a support of who God created them to be. A great Amish romance.
A Special thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
October 19, 2020
Marrying Matthew is an interesting story. Tabitha is in need of a husband, so she puts out an ad for a mail order groom. Unusual for an old order Amish woman. Matthew answers the ad in hopes of becoming an apprentice in the woodworking at her father's mill. When he gets there, she is prettier than he expects, and he is more handsome than she expected. They get married that day. The story is good, with accidents happening, a girl is murdered, and mystery of that is included, but for a Christian book, there are some vivid descriptions of their physical relationship that kind of ruined it for me. Too many referrals to her breasts as an example. If that doesn't bother you, then it's a great book. I won't be reading it again.
February 3, 2021
Kelly Long touches on a new concept in her Marrying Matthew novel, a mail-order groom. This is different from any other Amish book that I have read, and again, I loved it. I think it is creative and that that part of the story was done really well. There is romance, mystery and intrigue in this book, and you want to keep reading to see how it all ends up.
June 28, 2022
Totally enjoyed this story of Tabitha and Matthew at Blackberry Falls. Their story is one of finding Love and building a relationship. Very enjoyable.
October 31, 2020
Marrying Matthew was definitely a different sort of Amish romance then I'm used to. I do read a lot of Amish romance, and Amish fiction and I can honestly say this book took me by shock.
The story takes place in Blackberry Falls, PA in the Appalachian Mountains. They don't give a date but I'm guessing its early when the Amish were starting to come over to North America because of the language used. They were using Der Herr when speaking of God sometimes, they would interchange it with Gott.
I liked the idea that Tabitha took charge of her life and got a mail order groom, and that satisfied her father's wishes to have his daughter married and have an heir for his woodworking business. But Tabitha decided to marry on her terms and not her father's and I do give it credit for that.
Matthew, the man who answered the ad was a little different, and looking to further his career, but turned out to be an honest decent man.
The characters in the story are good. They are very loyal to Tabitha and her father. The 2 main supporting characters are the housekeeper Anke and Abner Mast, Tabitha's guardian, her father's step brother and right hand man.
So the things I didn't like. In the majority of the Amish books I read, (and I read a lot).when a new Amish word is introduced, or even when an Amish word is used, the Emglish word is usually used.within the next couple of sentences to let the readers know what the word means. Not so with this book, there were many words I had to look up the definitions of.
The thing that bothered me most is the way the characters acted. For example, Matthew was very disrespectful to Abner. From my understanding respect to the elders is something the Amish hold in high regard.
The other thing I especially didn't like was the way the beginning was almost like a soft core porn novel. Honestly I almost stopped reading it. I've never read a "Christian" novel that had that much sexual innuendo and sexual content in it. I was honestly appalled. The 2nd half of the book changed some and got better but the beginning of the book really was a lot of sexual innuendo and sexual content really turned me off. I did a lot of skimming and skipping over areas because of this. I won't be reading any more stories in this series, even though it turned out good at the end....I kind of want to read them because of the ending and the love story in it, but the sex and sexual innuendo was enough to turn me off to the series. Not what you expected for an Amish novel!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced ARC. I was only asked to give my honest opinion in a review and this is my honest opinion.
The story takes place in Blackberry Falls, PA in the Appalachian Mountains. They don't give a date but I'm guessing its early when the Amish were starting to come over to North America because of the language used. They were using Der Herr when speaking of God sometimes, they would interchange it with Gott.
I liked the idea that Tabitha took charge of her life and got a mail order groom, and that satisfied her father's wishes to have his daughter married and have an heir for his woodworking business. But Tabitha decided to marry on her terms and not her father's and I do give it credit for that.
Matthew, the man who answered the ad was a little different, and looking to further his career, but turned out to be an honest decent man.
The characters in the story are good. They are very loyal to Tabitha and her father. The 2 main supporting characters are the housekeeper Anke and Abner Mast, Tabitha's guardian, her father's step brother and right hand man.
So the things I didn't like. In the majority of the Amish books I read, (and I read a lot).when a new Amish word is introduced, or even when an Amish word is used, the Emglish word is usually used.within the next couple of sentences to let the readers know what the word means. Not so with this book, there were many words I had to look up the definitions of.
The thing that bothered me most is the way the characters acted. For example, Matthew was very disrespectful to Abner. From my understanding respect to the elders is something the Amish hold in high regard.
The other thing I especially didn't like was the way the beginning was almost like a soft core porn novel. Honestly I almost stopped reading it. I've never read a "Christian" novel that had that much sexual innuendo and sexual content in it. I was honestly appalled. The 2nd half of the book changed some and got better but the beginning of the book really was a lot of sexual innuendo and sexual content really turned me off. I did a lot of skimming and skipping over areas because of this. I won't be reading any more stories in this series, even though it turned out good at the end....I kind of want to read them because of the ending and the love story in it, but the sex and sexual innuendo was enough to turn me off to the series. Not what you expected for an Amish novel!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced ARC. I was only asked to give my honest opinion in a review and this is my honest opinion.
November 19, 2020
"Marrying Matthew" by Kelly Long was a wonderful Amish style book that did not follow any of the outlines that the many books I have read have basically followed. One of the things I most appreciated was that the author did not find it necessary to over explain any emotions, or even the high German words used. It isn't hard to understand what words mean when reading them in context, even when the words are sprinkled in from another language. Every Amish book I have read before has given a dictionary list at the beginning (or end) of the book with a list of the meanings of every word used, as well as literal interpretation of every word used throughout the book (making the appendix list totally redundant). Ms. Long simply sprinkled in words as they would be used in the culture of the storyline, and treated the reader with a nice level of anticipated intelligence to figure out what the words meant in the context of the usage.
I loved that Ms. Long combined two concepts in this story...an Amish background together with an Amish woman seeking a mail order husband. These are not concepts that would usually be thought of in a storyline, and this shows the wonderful imagination that went into writing this story. There were many main characters that were deeply developed. Two relationships were fully explored with true depth in one storyline. I felt like I got a two for one story! I was pulled into the story from the very first page, and had a hard time putting it down before the very last sentence! This is saying something, as I often will choose an Amish story as an "easy read" when I don't necessarily want a book that takes a lot to get into. I was pleasantly surprised to be so thoroughly pulled into this story, and to truly not be able to guess every part of the story before it unfolded.
My only wish was that more was explored about Annie's mother. I felt, personally, like this was left a little too open ended. I don't want to give away too much, because it would truly be a spoiler to say more. However, to the publisher and author, I do wish more was explored here. Now, maybe this is a part of a series? If so, please touch on this in the future. This could be an amazing story all of it's own!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books (Zebra) through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved that Ms. Long combined two concepts in this story...an Amish background together with an Amish woman seeking a mail order husband. These are not concepts that would usually be thought of in a storyline, and this shows the wonderful imagination that went into writing this story. There were many main characters that were deeply developed. Two relationships were fully explored with true depth in one storyline. I felt like I got a two for one story! I was pulled into the story from the very first page, and had a hard time putting it down before the very last sentence! This is saying something, as I often will choose an Amish story as an "easy read" when I don't necessarily want a book that takes a lot to get into. I was pleasantly surprised to be so thoroughly pulled into this story, and to truly not be able to guess every part of the story before it unfolded.
My only wish was that more was explored about Annie's mother. I felt, personally, like this was left a little too open ended. I don't want to give away too much, because it would truly be a spoiler to say more. However, to the publisher and author, I do wish more was explored here. Now, maybe this is a part of a series? If so, please touch on this in the future. This could be an amazing story all of it's own!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books (Zebra) through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 13, 2021
Marrying Matthew is the first of Kelly Long's Amish Mail Order Grooms series. It is the story of Tabitha and Matthew, two strangers who agree to marry without realizing what that actually means. Tabitha is the daughter of a mill owner with a passion for wood-working that is prohibited in her home of Blackberry Falls. She has a continuous set of beaus wanting to court her, but not for her. They are interested in her father's business. Matthew answers an ad that Tabitha places for a mail order groom. His interest actually lies in apprenticing with her father, but he is willing to marry to make that happen. He has no idea that Tabitha is also a master carver and also a lovely young girl who will ignite a spark in him. The two of them face a bumpy road, especially since there is also a murder in the area and people suspect Matthew, as he is an outsider. Can the two of them make their way and also discover how to change a community's long standing rule about women carvers? On a side story, there is Anke and Abner, two older people who have spent their lives watching out for Tabitha. Both have their secrets and their heartaches, but can they find love together? This was a fun story, full of mischief and sparkle. I enjoyed the characters. Tabitha and Matthew were young and exciting and full of life. I especially enjoyed Anke and Abner's story though, as they both learned to love and let go of the past. Thanks to #NetGalley for the chance to read this story. All opinions are my own. #MarryingMatthew #Bookstagram #all_the_pages
January 1, 2021
I enjoyed the setting of this book. I found it quite interesting to read about an Amish community set in the Appalachians. The delightful and sometimes unusual people of the community of Blackberry Falls added depth to the story. Being the strong-minded, independent thinking daughter of a wealthy Amish business owner, Tabitha Stolfus wants marriage on her own terms, and she decides to advertise for a “mail order groom”. She gets more than she ever imagined in Matthew King. There’s romance and a little bit of suspense in this book and the storyline has some intensity that kept me turning pages to find out how the mystery of who was attempting to kill Matthew. The setting, characters, and storyline are all strong features of this book.
A note about this story: I know that this book is published under general fiction, not Christian fiction, and that the guidelines are different for those two genres. However, the intimate scenes between Matthew and Tabitha, even though they were married, were too “spicy” for me. They weren’t entirely inappropriate, but it was past my comfort zone. I do realize, however, that this book was not labeled as Christian fiction, and that was not necessarily the intended audience for the book. My rating for this book would still be 4.00 because of that difference in designation.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
A note about this story: I know that this book is published under general fiction, not Christian fiction, and that the guidelines are different for those two genres. However, the intimate scenes between Matthew and Tabitha, even though they were married, were too “spicy” for me. They weren’t entirely inappropriate, but it was past my comfort zone. I do realize, however, that this book was not labeled as Christian fiction, and that was not necessarily the intended audience for the book. My rating for this book would still be 4.00 because of that difference in designation.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
November 23, 2020
Marrying Matthew is a charming first installment in Kelly Long's The Amish Mail Order Grooms series.
Tabitha Stolfus is the twenty year old daughter of a successful owner of a woodworking business. She wants to marry a man of her own choosing and who does not know about her family business. Strong-willed and creative, Tabitha places an ad for a mail-order Amish husband. Keeping her plans secret from her father, John, she is aided by her friend/bodyguard Abner Mast and her friend/housekeeper Anke. Tabitha is pleasantly surprised by her intended, but will she and her new groom live happily ever after?
Matthew King is really not interested in marriage but answering Tabitha's ad is a means to an end. He is a woodworker who wants to apprentice under his bride-to-be's father so that is his impetus for marrying Tabitha. Matthew is taken aback by how quickly Tabitha wants to marry since he believed they would have a bit of a courtship before their marriage. He goes along with marrying quickly but he stymies her plans to consummate their marriage before they take the time to get know each other.
John is surprised but thrilled by Tabitha's marriage and he does not hesitate to welcome Matthew into the family and the business. But the townspeople are a somewhat superstitious and when a couple of incidents occur, they try to distance themselves from the newcomer. After tragedy strikes, most everyone believes Matthew is to blame. Then, just as Matthew and Tabitha fully commit themselves to their marriage, their future is threatened by a series of events that put not only their happiness, but their lives, in danger.
Marrying Matthew is a fast-paced romance that is not typical of Amish fiction. John and Tabitha are delightful characters whose attraction to each other is not downplayed. Readers of clean romances might be uncomfortable due to descriptions of their mutual desire. A lovely romance between Abner and Anke slowly unfolds and adds depth and substance to the storyline. With a somewhat predictable plot twist late in the story, Kelly Long brings this engaging romance to a dramatic conclusion. I am looking forward to the next book in The Amish Mail Order Grooms series.
Tabitha Stolfus is the twenty year old daughter of a successful owner of a woodworking business. She wants to marry a man of her own choosing and who does not know about her family business. Strong-willed and creative, Tabitha places an ad for a mail-order Amish husband. Keeping her plans secret from her father, John, she is aided by her friend/bodyguard Abner Mast and her friend/housekeeper Anke. Tabitha is pleasantly surprised by her intended, but will she and her new groom live happily ever after?
Matthew King is really not interested in marriage but answering Tabitha's ad is a means to an end. He is a woodworker who wants to apprentice under his bride-to-be's father so that is his impetus for marrying Tabitha. Matthew is taken aback by how quickly Tabitha wants to marry since he believed they would have a bit of a courtship before their marriage. He goes along with marrying quickly but he stymies her plans to consummate their marriage before they take the time to get know each other.
John is surprised but thrilled by Tabitha's marriage and he does not hesitate to welcome Matthew into the family and the business. But the townspeople are a somewhat superstitious and when a couple of incidents occur, they try to distance themselves from the newcomer. After tragedy strikes, most everyone believes Matthew is to blame. Then, just as Matthew and Tabitha fully commit themselves to their marriage, their future is threatened by a series of events that put not only their happiness, but their lives, in danger.
Marrying Matthew is a fast-paced romance that is not typical of Amish fiction. John and Tabitha are delightful characters whose attraction to each other is not downplayed. Readers of clean romances might be uncomfortable due to descriptions of their mutual desire. A lovely romance between Abner and Anke slowly unfolds and adds depth and substance to the storyline. With a somewhat predictable plot twist late in the story, Kelly Long brings this engaging romance to a dramatic conclusion. I am looking forward to the next book in The Amish Mail Order Grooms series.
August 3, 2022
Marrying Matthew is an Amish romance by author Kelly Long. Marrying Matthew is the first installment of The Amish Mail Order Grooms series. Marrying Matthew is a great stand-alone book.
Twenty-year-old Tabitha (Tabby) Stolfus was headstrong however, her dad wished she was a boy or married. But, would any man meet her standards? Surely, any man that would marry Tabby had to love her boldness.
Matthew King was a mail order groom, the first of his kind. His greatest desire is to be a woodcutter apprentice under Tabby’s father. He is quite the gentleman even when Tabby offers herself to him on their first wedding night. However, someone wanted him gone, dead gone.
Marrying Matthew is unlike any other Amish story I have read. Especially since most mail orders were for brides. I give Marrying Matthew 4*/5*.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Twenty-year-old Tabitha (Tabby) Stolfus was headstrong however, her dad wished she was a boy or married. But, would any man meet her standards? Surely, any man that would marry Tabby had to love her boldness.
Matthew King was a mail order groom, the first of his kind. His greatest desire is to be a woodcutter apprentice under Tabby’s father. He is quite the gentleman even when Tabby offers herself to him on their first wedding night. However, someone wanted him gone, dead gone.
Marrying Matthew is unlike any other Amish story I have read. Especially since most mail orders were for brides. I give Marrying Matthew 4*/5*.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
November 26, 2020
This is the first in a new series by Kelly Long. I loved the premise of the book (and series) of a mail-order groom. This is different from any other Amish book that I have read, and again, I loved it. I think it is creative and that that part of the story was done really well. I also liked that these were not Amish farmers as so many Amish book characters are. There is romance, mystery and intrigue in this book, and you want to keep reading to see how it all ends up. I also enjoyed the redemptive aspect of the story that shows up in several areas. The only downfall to me, was the graphic intimacy scenes. I understand that the couple is married, but it was very unexpected in a Christian Amish book and while I wouldn't label it smutty, I wouldn't be able to say that it is a "clean" read either. I would not want my teenage daughter to read this book. Other that than, I did enjoy the story line and concept of this book. If you are not put off by slightly more graphic intimacy scenes, and love romantic fiction, you will enjoy this book.
November 13, 2020
Marrying Matthew is a story of Tabitha, daughter of a successful Amish businessman, who wants to marry a man of her own choice, someone who doesn´t know about the money in the family. Her ad is answered by Matthew, who knows the name and wants mainly to get an apprenticeship with her father. They start as a marriage of convenience but their relationship develops with time just as the attitude of Blackberry Falls Amish towards Matthew.
This book left me a bit confused. It is a very good read - the story and characters are interesting and complex, the plot is a bit unusual but still believable, the mix of romance and mystery was just right and overall it was certainly not a boring book. What surprised me were the sexual references and innuendos all over the book. People certainly are sexual beings, even Amish people, I just didn´t expect to read about this in a Christian novel.. I can recommend this book only if you don´t look specifically for a CLEAN Amish romance.
This book left me a bit confused. It is a very good read - the story and characters are interesting and complex, the plot is a bit unusual but still believable, the mix of romance and mystery was just right and overall it was certainly not a boring book. What surprised me were the sexual references and innuendos all over the book. People certainly are sexual beings, even Amish people, I just didn´t expect to read about this in a Christian novel.. I can recommend this book only if you don´t look specifically for a CLEAN Amish romance.
November 25, 2020
Kelly Long has again given us a wonderful new book, Marrying Matthew, which will be published December 1.
In true Kelly Long fashion, this book is a little different than most Amish love stories. Tabitha Stolfus sends away for a mail-order groom because she wants someone to love her, and not just her dad’s business and money.
Answering the add is Matthew King., a woodworker who really just wants to apprentice for Tabitha’s dad.
Is there anyway for true love to come from this business deal?
This is a 5-star book and deserves to be ordered today.
Thank you to Kensington Books and Kelly for making making this book available through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to give a positive review.
In true Kelly Long fashion, this book is a little different than most Amish love stories. Tabitha Stolfus sends away for a mail-order groom because she wants someone to love her, and not just her dad’s business and money.
Answering the add is Matthew King., a woodworker who really just wants to apprentice for Tabitha’s dad.
Is there anyway for true love to come from this business deal?
This is a 5-star book and deserves to be ordered today.
Thank you to Kensington Books and Kelly for making making this book available through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to give a positive review.
March 19, 2021
"Marrying Matthew" is Long's first book in the Amish Mail Order Grooms series. Tabitha's dad, John, wants his daughter married. Tabitha wants to take marriage into her own hands, and sends out an ad for a mail order groom. Enter Matthew, an Amish woodworker who wants to apprentice under her father. Having her as a wife is incidental. Can marriage between them work, when it's founded on a lie?
I've read quite a few of Long's books before. While I did enjoy this story, I did NOT enjoy the continual references to consummating their marriage and the teetering on the edge of being too "racy" for me. I don't feel this is fitting for an Amish book. Hence, my 3-star rating.
I've read quite a few of Long's books before. While I did enjoy this story, I did NOT enjoy the continual references to consummating their marriage and the teetering on the edge of being too "racy" for me. I don't feel this is fitting for an Amish book. Hence, my 3-star rating.
December 15, 2020
The hero is very alpha, and there’s an enemies to lovers energy with the storyline. Both of these are unusual in Amish romances, and neither are my fave. I did appreciate the effort to weave in sexual tension, which is rare in Amish romances.
I think this might work for readers who find beta heroes annoying. Personally, I thought Matthew was a jerk.
I received a ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
I think this might work for readers who find beta heroes annoying. Personally, I thought Matthew was a jerk.
I received a ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
November 14, 2020
I received this book from netgalley! I loved it can't wait for from this series. I hope to read more from kelly. I loved Tabitha and Matthew story at BlackBerry falls. I loved the character's and the cover and the title to the book. thank you for the opportunity to read it.
June 15, 2022
sweet story
Kelly Long writes such wonderful
Books filled with memorable characters. The stories are interesting and I enjoy the various Amish community details that I was unfamiliar with.
Kelly Long writes such wonderful
Books filled with memorable characters. The stories are interesting and I enjoy the various Amish community details that I was unfamiliar with.
July 12, 2025
I was surprised with how much I loved reading this, could not put it down. I loved the main romance and character development of the main characters and the background romance as well. Would read again!
November 3, 2025
This book is not Christian and definitely not decent. What a weird hybrid mix of "hill Billy Amish" meets an attempt at Amish erotica. Absolutely revolting.
Please do not waste your time. I've marked this author as one to avoid at all costs.
Please do not waste your time. I've marked this author as one to avoid at all costs.
November 1, 2020
Definitely not your average Amish but good nonetheless! You will be taken on a journey of love and leavening to love. It’s a good read!
February 3, 2021
I am waiting for more from this writer. She is great.
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