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An Amish Journey #3
A Beautiful Arrangement
Can Lydia and Samuel find love in their marriage of convenience?
Lydia still can’t believe that she is Mrs. Samuel Bontrager. Or that she is seventeen with a six-month-old daughter. As Baby Mattie grows fussier by the day, Lydia wonders how she will survive a lifetime of marriage to a man she doesn’t love—at least not in the way she wants.
Samuel knows that he and Lydia did the right thing by marrying when Lydia became pregnant. He has even grown to love Lydia, though he never seems able to say the words out loud. What if she doesn’t love him back? After all, she pushes him away whenever he tries to draw closer.
When Lydia and Samuel introduce their mutual friends Beverly and Joseph to each other, they are as envious as they are delighted to watch their friends fall in love. But just as Samuel thinks Lydia might be softening to him, she gets involved in investigating the mysterious past of a local homeless woman—a curiosity that threatens to drive the couple further apart.
The third and final novel in the Amish Journeys series by bestselling author Beth Wiseman explores how wounds from the past must come to light before they can hope to heal.
Lydia still can’t believe that she is Mrs. Samuel Bontrager. Or that she is seventeen with a six-month-old daughter. As Baby Mattie grows fussier by the day, Lydia wonders how she will survive a lifetime of marriage to a man she doesn’t love—at least not in the way she wants.
Samuel knows that he and Lydia did the right thing by marrying when Lydia became pregnant. He has even grown to love Lydia, though he never seems able to say the words out loud. What if she doesn’t love him back? After all, she pushes him away whenever he tries to draw closer.
When Lydia and Samuel introduce their mutual friends Beverly and Joseph to each other, they are as envious as they are delighted to watch their friends fall in love. But just as Samuel thinks Lydia might be softening to him, she gets involved in investigating the mysterious past of a local homeless woman—a curiosity that threatens to drive the couple further apart.
The third and final novel in the Amish Journeys series by bestselling author Beth Wiseman explores how wounds from the past must come to light before they can hope to heal.
336 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2020
104 people are currently reading
1432 people want to read
About the author
Beth Wiseman
137 books1,417 followers"I wish I had the time to review books and chat with you here, but my writing deadlines just don't allow it. Please like my Fans of Beth Wiseman Page on Facebook where I try to post any news and interact with readers."
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.
You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.
You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 1, 2020
One of the best Amish books I've read in a long time!
This book has so many layers and we find the story following two Amish couples in their relationships.
The first couple is very young and even though many Amish marry earlier than the Englishers do this couple is young even by their standards. She got pregnant before marriage and they hadn't gotten a chance to know each other well even though they knew each other growing up. As we mature we change though and now that they are married theirs is a strained relationship barely more than strangers. There is a lot of hurting going on and they both are praying for their relationship to change for the better and strengthen. They both love their daughter very much.
The second couple met through the first young couple.
She is widowed and he feels so blessed to have found her and her him.
What will happen when she reveals a big secret to him? Will the power of love keep their relationship strong or will he let the feeling of betrayal sidetrack all the happiness God has brought into their lives since meeting?
There is also an older woman in the neighborhood that needs help, a homeless woman. Is she as dangerous and mentally unstable as some think?
When her secrets become revealed will she be able to get the help she so desperately needs?
I felt so many emotions reading this book and I highly recommend it!
Pub Date 07 Apr 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This book has so many layers and we find the story following two Amish couples in their relationships.
The first couple is very young and even though many Amish marry earlier than the Englishers do this couple is young even by their standards. She got pregnant before marriage and they hadn't gotten a chance to know each other well even though they knew each other growing up. As we mature we change though and now that they are married theirs is a strained relationship barely more than strangers. There is a lot of hurting going on and they both are praying for their relationship to change for the better and strengthen. They both love their daughter very much.
The second couple met through the first young couple.
She is widowed and he feels so blessed to have found her and her him.
What will happen when she reveals a big secret to him? Will the power of love keep their relationship strong or will he let the feeling of betrayal sidetrack all the happiness God has brought into their lives since meeting?
There is also an older woman in the neighborhood that needs help, a homeless woman. Is she as dangerous and mentally unstable as some think?
When her secrets become revealed will she be able to get the help she so desperately needs?
I felt so many emotions reading this book and I highly recommend it!
Pub Date 07 Apr 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 10, 2020
A Beautiful Arrangement is the third and final novel in Beth Wiseman’s An Amish Journey series. Though part of a series, it reads well as a standalone.
Lydia and Samuel were forced to marry by their families and religious tradition because she got pregnant. Being a wife and mother at the tender age of seventeen is difficult, especially when you don’t really know your mate, because you became intimate before you even dated. The Bontragers, Samuel and Lydia, watch the friends they introduced fall in love knowing they haven’t shared those feelings with each other, although they do feel them. How will they open up to each other and learn to love and show love?
A Beautiful Arrangement is just as the title implies. It’s a story of love and forgiveness. It is a testament to the renewal of life and love. The characters are strong and vibrant. The storyline and unexpected plot twists engage the reader throughout. I rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of chaste romance, especially Amish romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Lydia and Samuel were forced to marry by their families and religious tradition because she got pregnant. Being a wife and mother at the tender age of seventeen is difficult, especially when you don’t really know your mate, because you became intimate before you even dated. The Bontragers, Samuel and Lydia, watch the friends they introduced fall in love knowing they haven’t shared those feelings with each other, although they do feel them. How will they open up to each other and learn to love and show love?
A Beautiful Arrangement is just as the title implies. It’s a story of love and forgiveness. It is a testament to the renewal of life and love. The characters are strong and vibrant. The storyline and unexpected plot twists engage the reader throughout. I rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of chaste romance, especially Amish romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 1, 2025
A Beautiful Arrangement is the third book in the Amish Journey series. We met Lydia, Mary's sister, in the first book. She had gotten pregnant out of wedlock and so their families convinced them that the right thing to do was get married. Now Lydia and Samuel Bontrager are parents to six-month old Mattie, yet strangers to one another, even though they are husband and wife. They love their daughter, but are not happy with their lives. Watching their friends court, fall in love and get married leaves them wishing for the chance to maybe court one another now. Will they be able to fall in love after all?
This was a sweet story. Lydia and Samuel care about one another, but are easy to anger, and don't talk to each other about their feelings. Joe is a co-worker of Samuels, and Beverly is an acquaintance of Lydia. Joe is interested in her and Lydia and Samuel work as matchmakers to bring them together. Beverly is a widow who moved to their community to start a new life. The two couples get along find and it looks like Beverly and Joe might get together. Meanwhile Lydia and Samuel are getting closer through spending couple time with them. There are also a couple of other plot points that add much to this story. There is a homeless woman that Lydia wants to help and Beverly has a huge secret. Both of these can derail the relationships that are growing. I enjoyed this story with it's themes of falling in love, getting to know each other, homelessness, secrets, trusting each other's judgement, mental health and trusting one another. It also shows that all cultures or religions all deal with many of the same issues. I very much enjoyed this story with it's great characters and storylines. The narration by Lauren Berst was well done with great expression and voices that were easily identified.
This was a sweet story. Lydia and Samuel care about one another, but are easy to anger, and don't talk to each other about their feelings. Joe is a co-worker of Samuels, and Beverly is an acquaintance of Lydia. Joe is interested in her and Lydia and Samuel work as matchmakers to bring them together. Beverly is a widow who moved to their community to start a new life. The two couples get along find and it looks like Beverly and Joe might get together. Meanwhile Lydia and Samuel are getting closer through spending couple time with them. There are also a couple of other plot points that add much to this story. There is a homeless woman that Lydia wants to help and Beverly has a huge secret. Both of these can derail the relationships that are growing. I enjoyed this story with it's themes of falling in love, getting to know each other, homelessness, secrets, trusting each other's judgement, mental health and trusting one another. It also shows that all cultures or religions all deal with many of the same issues. I very much enjoyed this story with it's great characters and storylines. The narration by Lauren Berst was well done with great expression and voices that were easily identified.
April 2, 2020
The author gives us two Amish couples to focus on, and we get to be part of their lives, and things may look wonderful on the outside, but not so in reality.
The married couple are very young, the wife being only 17 and already have a child, but they skipped an important part of their life together, and we are witnesses to their attempts to make it right.
The other couple meet as a result of the first married parents, but we are with them as they journey to be with one another. What a bumpy ride you are about to experience as they travel towards life long commitments.
There is so much compassion offered here for the less fortunate, made me want to become friends and know them personally.
Some things are not how we perceive them to be and there are many examples offered here, but answers are forthcoming, and this is a book that you will get lost in and not want to put down until you know what happens!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.
The married couple are very young, the wife being only 17 and already have a child, but they skipped an important part of their life together, and we are witnesses to their attempts to make it right.
The other couple meet as a result of the first married parents, but we are with them as they journey to be with one another. What a bumpy ride you are about to experience as they travel towards life long commitments.
There is so much compassion offered here for the less fortunate, made me want to become friends and know them personally.
Some things are not how we perceive them to be and there are many examples offered here, but answers are forthcoming, and this is a book that you will get lost in and not want to put down until you know what happens!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.
April 3, 2020
A Beautiful Arrangement by Beth Wiseman is the third An Amish Journey Novel. Lydia Bontrager is seventeen years old and married to Samuel with a six-month-old daughter. Lydia and Samuel were forced to marry by their parents after she became pregnant. They went from lust to marriage skipping the courtship stage of the relationship. Lydia wants romance and a chance to fall in love with the husband she hardly knows. Samuel and Lydia are asked to introduce Joe, a co-worker of Samuel’s to Beverly, a friend of Lydia’s. The foursome have a lively dinner together and then a picnic. Lydia and Samuel like watching their friends fall in love. It gives Samuel the idea to court Lydia. Just when they are getting to know each other, Lydia and Beverly begin looking into the local homeless woman with a mysterious past. Samuel wants Lydia to avoid the woman, but Lydia wants to help her. Will Lydia and Samuel get the chance to have a traditional marriage? While A Beautiful Arrangement is the third book in An Amish Journey series, it can be read as a standalone. I have enjoyed all three novels and I recommend reading Hearts in Harmony and Listening to Love. I thought A Beautiful Arrangement was well-written with realistic characters. Lydia is a seventeen-year-old who is unready for marriage especially to a man she hardly knows. Her six-month-old daughter, Maddie has been crying each day and Lydia does not why. She feels like a bad mother (I know that feeling). Lydia and Samuel want to improve their marriage, but they do not share these thoughts we each other. They both have fears, regrets, and hopes. When they introduce Beverly and Joe to each other, they get to join them on a couple of dates. It gives Samuel and Lydia a chance to get to know each other. They are each afraid to make the first move, though, for fear of rejection. Samuel is also worried about his elderly parents. His father has heart problems and his mother is unable to care for him like she used to. Beverly and Joe were delightful additions to the story. Joe is a lively man with a humorous side. I liked the addition of the mystery involving the homeless Amish woman. It added more depth and interest to this engaging Amish novel. I quickly found myself engrossed in this appealing story. A Beautiful Arrangement is a poignant tale with regrets, friendship, faith, family, fear, hopefulness, and romance.
June 29, 2020
Lydia and her husband have a lot of problems in their arranged marriage as well as a strange woman who lives in their area. Love, patience, communication are just some of the solutions needed!
May 27, 2020
Hmmmm....I keep selecting books with strong forgiveness themes lately. I wonder if God is trying to tell me something? I certainly appreciated the way both forgiveness and trust wrap their way around these two couples as they grow in love and appreciation for each other. Yes, you read that right -- Wiseman blesses her readers with two romances in one book! Eeeep!! That set my romantical loving heart all a flutter!
First, we have Lydia and Samuel who had to get married due to Lydia's pregnancy. In essence, this is very much an Amish marriage of convenience story and I really enjoyed the way these two matured and discovered that deep, abiding love is so much more than infatuation. Sometimes Samuel was a dunderhead. :-) But then, Lydia was prone to retreating and stewing over things so I guess their awkwardness was equally matched.
Then we have Joseph and Beverly. Oh my, but that man is smitten! What a hoot. He made me positively giddy! He sweeps Beverly off her feet with his bold declarations of ever afters. Such a contrast to Samuel's wary wooing of his estranged wife. That's not to say there aren't challenges in Joseph and Beverly's courtship -- they hit a gigantic bump on the road to happily ever after and wouldn't you know it? Joseph takes a page out of Samuel's dunderhead playbook! Men! Gah!
And in the midst of all the love story drama and angst, comes a mysterious homeless woman who Lydia just can't ignore and that story challenges them all!
This is the third book in the Amish Journeys series but it can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first two books but I had no problem diving into this one. I have a feeling that some of Lydia and Samuel's story took place in the other novels, but Wiseman easily catches new readers up to speed with their situation and I never felt lost or confused.
A captivating read brimming with the hope trust brings into any relationship -- whether it be spouse, friend, stranger or your Heavenly Father.
First, we have Lydia and Samuel who had to get married due to Lydia's pregnancy. In essence, this is very much an Amish marriage of convenience story and I really enjoyed the way these two matured and discovered that deep, abiding love is so much more than infatuation. Sometimes Samuel was a dunderhead. :-) But then, Lydia was prone to retreating and stewing over things so I guess their awkwardness was equally matched.
Then we have Joseph and Beverly. Oh my, but that man is smitten! What a hoot. He made me positively giddy! He sweeps Beverly off her feet with his bold declarations of ever afters. Such a contrast to Samuel's wary wooing of his estranged wife. That's not to say there aren't challenges in Joseph and Beverly's courtship -- they hit a gigantic bump on the road to happily ever after and wouldn't you know it? Joseph takes a page out of Samuel's dunderhead playbook! Men! Gah!
And in the midst of all the love story drama and angst, comes a mysterious homeless woman who Lydia just can't ignore and that story challenges them all!
This is the third book in the Amish Journeys series but it can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first two books but I had no problem diving into this one. I have a feeling that some of Lydia and Samuel's story took place in the other novels, but Wiseman easily catches new readers up to speed with their situation and I never felt lost or confused.
A captivating read brimming with the hope trust brings into any relationship -- whether it be spouse, friend, stranger or your Heavenly Father.
June 23, 2020
Samuel and Lydia Bontrager a young married couple with a sweet baby girl now face the rush of getting married. Rushed into marriage without the time of courting and learning about each other, Samuel and Lydia have an "in to me see" (intimacy) problem. They are unable to communicate with each other and end up shutting down and having hurt feelings. When Samuel to plays cupid with a co-worker and friend of Lydia, they begin to unravel emotions that need healing. Their friends Joseph and Beverly's new beginning reveals what Samuel and Lydia missed in courtship.
Lydia suffers from shame of wrong choices and Samuel not protecting his bride. They begin to build their relationship on trust and faith. A 3rd party brings their weakness and strength out when Lydia feels called to help a homeless Amish woman who lives in a rundown house. Not much is known about this woman however, Lydia feels calls to help her and calls on her friend Beverly to help her.
Beverly also has a background in the story as she is recently widowed. She desires to wed again but when her secret is discovered, she is faced with rejection. She finds something new in Joseph and when she is sure of his love for her, she reveals her secret only to be abandoned once again.
A Beautiful Arrangement is God's way of bringing our bad choices, misunderstanding, and relationships to light. It is a relatable telling of how we desire to be accepted and known.
A Special Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Lydia suffers from shame of wrong choices and Samuel not protecting his bride. They begin to build their relationship on trust and faith. A 3rd party brings their weakness and strength out when Lydia feels called to help a homeless Amish woman who lives in a rundown house. Not much is known about this woman however, Lydia feels calls to help her and calls on her friend Beverly to help her.
Beverly also has a background in the story as she is recently widowed. She desires to wed again but when her secret is discovered, she is faced with rejection. She finds something new in Joseph and when she is sure of his love for her, she reveals her secret only to be abandoned once again.
A Beautiful Arrangement is God's way of bringing our bad choices, misunderstanding, and relationships to light. It is a relatable telling of how we desire to be accepted and known.
A Special Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
August 16, 2020
Such a great book! It's not often a story goes in a way that I'm not expecting but this one did.
I haven't read books 1 & 2 but that didn't bother me. This book can be a standalone but now I want to go back and read the other.
I haven't read books 1 & 2 but that didn't bother me. This book can be a standalone but now I want to go back and read the other.
Want to read
March 16, 2020First of all I must say the cover is beautiful! I have read from Beth Wiseman for years and she never disappoints the readers. If you love reading about the Amish then you must pickup a copy of this book. I highly recommend this book!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Zondervan Fiction for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Zondervan Fiction for my honest review.
January 2, 2020
I have truly enjoyed this series.
Wiseman is a master of Amish fiction and I try to never miss any of her books.
I think what I loved about this particular book was that Samuel stepped up and corrected a wrong. He's truly amazing and I loved it when he showed his feeling in front of his wife. I applaud him. Too bad more men couldn't do that. I understand that it's hard sometimes to show how you really feel. It's called hocmut (pride). Forgive me if I spelling it wrong.
Lydia is an awesome person too. I couldn't imagine getting married that young and then trying to do what she's managed to do. She's to be commended as well.
I'm so happy that Lydia has made a friend in Beverly. Everyone needs a friend. I loved her immediately because she's a kind hearted and always wants to help others.
Another reason I loved this book was second chance at love. Beverly is who I'm referring to.
There just things that happen in life that are out of our control and it's hard to pick back up where you've left off. Especially if something happens to your other half.
Not sure how I will feel if something happens to my other half. Or how I will feel. I will cross that bridge when we get to it.
Friendship is another reason I love this book. Friendship is special. It doesn't matter what walk of life they're from. If God meant for us to befriend someone then it will happen. For that reason I really admired Beverly and Lydia.
Better stop here before I actually give something away.
I highly recommend this book. I love Wisemans stories because they are believable and realistic. She never makes her characters perfect because really no one is. Only the One who loves us is.
I have snickered in some places of this book and others I've held my breath waiting to see how Lydia and Samuel act towards each other. I'm glad Lydia stands her ground with her husband.
These two still have a lot to learn.
Even I'm still learning and I'm going on 52 years old. We learn new things everyday.
This book is full of surprises and I think you'll love them as I did.
My thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson.
I highly recommend this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
Wiseman is a master of Amish fiction and I try to never miss any of her books.
I think what I loved about this particular book was that Samuel stepped up and corrected a wrong. He's truly amazing and I loved it when he showed his feeling in front of his wife. I applaud him. Too bad more men couldn't do that. I understand that it's hard sometimes to show how you really feel. It's called hocmut (pride). Forgive me if I spelling it wrong.
Lydia is an awesome person too. I couldn't imagine getting married that young and then trying to do what she's managed to do. She's to be commended as well.
I'm so happy that Lydia has made a friend in Beverly. Everyone needs a friend. I loved her immediately because she's a kind hearted and always wants to help others.
Another reason I loved this book was second chance at love. Beverly is who I'm referring to.
There just things that happen in life that are out of our control and it's hard to pick back up where you've left off. Especially if something happens to your other half.
Not sure how I will feel if something happens to my other half. Or how I will feel. I will cross that bridge when we get to it.
Friendship is another reason I love this book. Friendship is special. It doesn't matter what walk of life they're from. If God meant for us to befriend someone then it will happen. For that reason I really admired Beverly and Lydia.
Better stop here before I actually give something away.
I highly recommend this book. I love Wisemans stories because they are believable and realistic. She never makes her characters perfect because really no one is. Only the One who loves us is.
I have snickered in some places of this book and others I've held my breath waiting to see how Lydia and Samuel act towards each other. I'm glad Lydia stands her ground with her husband.
These two still have a lot to learn.
Even I'm still learning and I'm going on 52 years old. We learn new things everyday.
This book is full of surprises and I think you'll love them as I did.
My thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson.
I highly recommend this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
April 10, 2020
Lydia Bontrager is a young wife and mother at the age of seventeen. She and her husband, Samuel, married young because of an unplanned pregnancy, and since marriage have struggled to relate to each other. They work together to help out two of their friend make a match, while rekindling their love.
Lydia is very young and had to grow up fast as a result of her marriage and motherhood, and she has matured from the teenager that she was in Hearts in Harmony. She has settled into domestic life and running her own household well, and I admired her newfound maturity.
Joseph and Beverly are adorable together, and made for a great side plot. I loved their instant chemistry and love of children and shared dream of a big family.
Samuel is a hardworking man, who loves his family, but struggles to communicate with his wife, he has trouble expressing himself.
Overall, this was a sweet heartwarming romance, and I like how Lydia was challenged by meeting Margaret, and how it helped her grow and mature. Entertaining, full of heart, misunderstandings, and sweet moments. Very enjoyable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Lydia is very young and had to grow up fast as a result of her marriage and motherhood, and she has matured from the teenager that she was in Hearts in Harmony. She has settled into domestic life and running her own household well, and I admired her newfound maturity.
Joseph and Beverly are adorable together, and made for a great side plot. I loved their instant chemistry and love of children and shared dream of a big family.
Samuel is a hardworking man, who loves his family, but struggles to communicate with his wife, he has trouble expressing himself.
Overall, this was a sweet heartwarming romance, and I like how Lydia was challenged by meeting Margaret, and how it helped her grow and mature. Entertaining, full of heart, misunderstandings, and sweet moments. Very enjoyable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 10, 2021
Samuel and Lydia’s story has been in the background for the entire Amish Journeys series, and A Beautiful Arrangement finally gave me the opportunity to explore it further. Getting pregnant before marriage, much less before baptism in the Amish faith is unheard of, and Samuel and Lydia’s parents all force them to marry before their baby is born and before they really know each other as well as they should.
Also included is the story of their friends Beverly and Joseph, how their courtship begins, and their joke with each other about someday wanting to have a family of ten children. (More power to them, I say!) What is not expected is that Beverly has a secret that she has been keeping from Joseph, and she is afraid that if she reveals it, he will end their relationship.
And yet, one more story is present – that of crazy Margaret Keim, an old lady who lives in a ragged blue truck. While it is not the Amish way to openly minister to outsiders, Lydia believes she is being called by God to reach out to this women who so clearly needs help.
Multiple storylines, but all of them were tied together in a beautiful way. Each one revealed that honesty is so important in the foundations of a new relationship, and that even lying by omission can damage trust that is slowly being restored. When you’re as young as Samuel and Lydia, it’s hard to learn these lessons while also navigating a brand new marriage that neither of them were fully prepared for. They never had the chance to experience falling in love like their friends were doing, but they both have a fierce love for the daughter they share. Among all the bumps and bruises, they slowly find their way to show each other the love they’ve been holding inside.
Beth Wiseman will always be one of my favorite authors for the Amish fiction genre as her stories are multi-faceted and her characters endearing. I’m sad to see this series come to an end, but love the journey it took me on.
Also included is the story of their friends Beverly and Joseph, how their courtship begins, and their joke with each other about someday wanting to have a family of ten children. (More power to them, I say!) What is not expected is that Beverly has a secret that she has been keeping from Joseph, and she is afraid that if she reveals it, he will end their relationship.
And yet, one more story is present – that of crazy Margaret Keim, an old lady who lives in a ragged blue truck. While it is not the Amish way to openly minister to outsiders, Lydia believes she is being called by God to reach out to this women who so clearly needs help.
Multiple storylines, but all of them were tied together in a beautiful way. Each one revealed that honesty is so important in the foundations of a new relationship, and that even lying by omission can damage trust that is slowly being restored. When you’re as young as Samuel and Lydia, it’s hard to learn these lessons while also navigating a brand new marriage that neither of them were fully prepared for. They never had the chance to experience falling in love like their friends were doing, but they both have a fierce love for the daughter they share. Among all the bumps and bruises, they slowly find their way to show each other the love they’ve been holding inside.
Beth Wiseman will always be one of my favorite authors for the Amish fiction genre as her stories are multi-faceted and her characters endearing. I’m sad to see this series come to an end, but love the journey it took me on.
March 21, 2020
This is the final book in the Amish Journey series but turns out to be my favorite. From the beautiful cover to the poignant story between the pages you will feel blessed when finished. It is a journey of finding your way to love after a forced marriage and to me paints a picture of God’s love for us. He woos us and shows patience to bring us into His plan for our lives. Lydia and Samuel are wonderful characters and I also enjoyed the lesser characters of Beverly and Joseph. Throw in a homeless woman and the secrets of her past and you have a wonderful story tied up in a beautiful arrangement with a big red bow. Beth Wiseman is the queen of Amish Fiction as she has a penchant for well developed characters and interesting storylines that are well paced and developed. Sweet romance, Faith, family, forgiveness, and acceptance blend together to create a sweet smelling aroma. Make time for this one as it is a must read.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
April 12, 2020
There are a few authors that I can always count on to write stories that move me. They are able to penetrate my heart with words of hope and give me a deeper understanding of God. The author of this book is one of those who can dig deep into a character’s emotions and bring them through darkness.
Lydia is far older in wisdom than most seventeen year olds. She made a mistake and finds herself married and with a baby. One bad decision changed her life but I loved how she has embraced the path God has taken her. There is much to learn from Lydia as she struggles in her marriage. One very important aspect of any marriage is communication. Without sharing things with your spouse it can cause a way for the enemy to slither in and whisper lies to tear the union apart.
Samuel was a good character and it was easy to see how frustrated he was in his marriage. When he married Lydia he had hopes of a good marriage including intimacy. In his mind he felt like a Lydia was withholding intimacy from him because she was angry. It was so special to read how these two young adults were faithful and turned to God to heal their marriage.
One of the lessons in the story is forgiveness. The author lets us see through the hearts of several characters how important forgiveness is. I really liked Joseph and Beverly’s story and how the author explores the destruction a lie can cause in a relationship. Beverly has kept a secret from everyone that has burdened her. Lies always get exposed and when they do, the mistrust comes in. Joseph is a good man but at some point he has to turn to God to help him with forgiveness. This part of the story is powerful and will have a lasting impact on me.
The character I loved the most was the homeless woman. The loneliness and rejection this woman has endured broke my heart. This part of the story had me shaking because I so wanted someone to reach out to her and show her love. I couldn’t help but want to push someone toward her and share God’s love with her. I won’t give this part of the story away because it is a great example of being God’s hands and feet. To look past the outside and see the broken heart inside is what each of us should be doing. Life is short and we need to make the most of every day. When you see someone hurting , go to them and offer compassion.
The story is a masterpiece of emotions and a realistic look at forgiveness, sharing God’s Word, communication and loving unconditionally.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Lydia is far older in wisdom than most seventeen year olds. She made a mistake and finds herself married and with a baby. One bad decision changed her life but I loved how she has embraced the path God has taken her. There is much to learn from Lydia as she struggles in her marriage. One very important aspect of any marriage is communication. Without sharing things with your spouse it can cause a way for the enemy to slither in and whisper lies to tear the union apart.
Samuel was a good character and it was easy to see how frustrated he was in his marriage. When he married Lydia he had hopes of a good marriage including intimacy. In his mind he felt like a Lydia was withholding intimacy from him because she was angry. It was so special to read how these two young adults were faithful and turned to God to heal their marriage.
One of the lessons in the story is forgiveness. The author lets us see through the hearts of several characters how important forgiveness is. I really liked Joseph and Beverly’s story and how the author explores the destruction a lie can cause in a relationship. Beverly has kept a secret from everyone that has burdened her. Lies always get exposed and when they do, the mistrust comes in. Joseph is a good man but at some point he has to turn to God to help him with forgiveness. This part of the story is powerful and will have a lasting impact on me.
The character I loved the most was the homeless woman. The loneliness and rejection this woman has endured broke my heart. This part of the story had me shaking because I so wanted someone to reach out to her and show her love. I couldn’t help but want to push someone toward her and share God’s love with her. I won’t give this part of the story away because it is a great example of being God’s hands and feet. To look past the outside and see the broken heart inside is what each of us should be doing. Life is short and we need to make the most of every day. When you see someone hurting , go to them and offer compassion.
The story is a masterpiece of emotions and a realistic look at forgiveness, sharing God’s Word, communication and loving unconditionally.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
June 25, 2020
A Beautiful Arrangement is a heartwarming story written by Beth Wiseman in her Amish Journey series. This is the third book in the series but you could read it as a stand alone. The characters which have been carried forward from the previous book are very likeable. I was drawn to Lydia on so many levels but Samuel is just as intriguing.
Lydia and Samuel were forced into marriage because of a indiscretion which leaves Lydia pregnant at the age of 16. The two had not even started courting and are now discovering how little they know about each other. Lydia keeps Samuel at a distance all through her pregnancy and now doesn't know how to try to close the gap between them. Samuel on the other hand has fallen in love with Lydia but doesn't want to endure anymore rejections. The journey they travel is a difficult one but as they weave their way through it they encounter a scary homeless lady. Lydia wants to learn more about this lady but Samuel strongly objects. The mystery surrounding this lady is so heartbreaking. How Lydia helps this lady and heals her marriage at the same time is truly amazing. I enjoyed this story from the first page.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. I also recommend reading the first two books to learn more about the characters.
Congratulations to Beth Wiseman on releasing another intriguing story for her readers enjoyment.
Lydia and Samuel were forced into marriage because of a indiscretion which leaves Lydia pregnant at the age of 16. The two had not even started courting and are now discovering how little they know about each other. Lydia keeps Samuel at a distance all through her pregnancy and now doesn't know how to try to close the gap between them. Samuel on the other hand has fallen in love with Lydia but doesn't want to endure anymore rejections. The journey they travel is a difficult one but as they weave their way through it they encounter a scary homeless lady. Lydia wants to learn more about this lady but Samuel strongly objects. The mystery surrounding this lady is so heartbreaking. How Lydia helps this lady and heals her marriage at the same time is truly amazing. I enjoyed this story from the first page.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. I also recommend reading the first two books to learn more about the characters.
Congratulations to Beth Wiseman on releasing another intriguing story for her readers enjoyment.
April 7, 2020
This book follows the story of the marriage of Samuel and Lydia, a young couple we met in the second book of this “Amish Journey” series. Lydia realizes that at the young age of 16, that she’s pregnant. To honor their parents and keep a good standing for their families to the Amish community, Lydia and Samuel are hastily joined in marriage. Samuel accepts the fact that they sinned and takes seriously his responsibility to care of his little family. Lydia is struggling with marrying at such an early age. However, they both adore their baby daughter, Maddie. Lydia and Samuel are both at a loss as to how to establish their relationship now that they are married. Because they married so swiftly, they missed the courting process so common among the Amish, and neither is exactly sure where to begin to try to get to know each other.
The story also follows the courtship of Beverly and Joseph, and their courtship does not run smoothly. Both couples have to struggle with honesty and forgiveness, and learn that God can redeem mistakes of the past. I enjoyed reading this heart-touching book by Beth Wiseman, and look forward to her next series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The story also follows the courtship of Beverly and Joseph, and their courtship does not run smoothly. Both couples have to struggle with honesty and forgiveness, and learn that God can redeem mistakes of the past. I enjoyed reading this heart-touching book by Beth Wiseman, and look forward to her next series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2020
A Beautiful Arrangement By Beth Wiseman is a beautifully well written Amish tale full of suspense.
I could understand Lydia’s attitude in her marriage but I am thankful for Joseph and Beverly presence in her life.
I love the delicacies described in this book. I really wanted to taste the garlic bread Lydia made for her husband. They eat so much good food!
I was amused at Joseph and Beverly plan to have 10 kids. Like 10 kids? How amusing!
Some scenes were emotional. My heart cried literally.
The author sure knows how to write well. This is an emotional but attention grabbing book with an Amish setting.
I read this book on a rainy day with a cold wind in the environment and this book ,my sweater and blanket kept me company. You can imagine how cool it was?
Theme of forgiveness,kindness and compassion were buttressed well in the plot.
This is a beautiful book that will leave you in tears and gratitude to God.
I finally understood why the book is titled “A Beautiful Arrangement“.
I am thankful for this book. Everything works beautiful in God’s time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I could understand Lydia’s attitude in her marriage but I am thankful for Joseph and Beverly presence in her life.
I love the delicacies described in this book. I really wanted to taste the garlic bread Lydia made for her husband. They eat so much good food!
I was amused at Joseph and Beverly plan to have 10 kids. Like 10 kids? How amusing!
Some scenes were emotional. My heart cried literally.
The author sure knows how to write well. This is an emotional but attention grabbing book with an Amish setting.
I read this book on a rainy day with a cold wind in the environment and this book ,my sweater and blanket kept me company. You can imagine how cool it was?
Theme of forgiveness,kindness and compassion were buttressed well in the plot.
This is a beautiful book that will leave you in tears and gratitude to God.
I finally understood why the book is titled “A Beautiful Arrangement“.
I am thankful for this book. Everything works beautiful in God’s time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 9, 2020
A BEAUTIFUL ARRANGEMENT by Beth Wiseman is the third and final novel in her Amish Journeys series and she has given us a 5-star book. Beth tells the story and Lydia and Sam and their forced marriage because of an unplanned pregnancy before their marriage. It was just a heat of passion thing and really did not mean anything, or did it?
Although their marriage was only one of confidence, they had learned to love each other, and they both loved their daughter, Mattie. Even with this, they just could not seem to draw closer.
Mutual friends, Beverly and Joseph are seeming to fall in love quickly and Lydia and Sam enjoy watching their friend's love grow. Sam is sure this will help soften Lydia to him, but she and Beverly get involved in helping a homeless woman and it is plain that this might drive them even further apart.
Taking things slowly, and with much prayer, will they be able to put more than the love of each other and their child into their marriage?
Read A BEAUTIFUL ARRANGEMENT to find out.
It is available now from your favorite retailer. I was gifted an ARC by Zondervan by NetGalley and was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
Although their marriage was only one of confidence, they had learned to love each other, and they both loved their daughter, Mattie. Even with this, they just could not seem to draw closer.
Mutual friends, Beverly and Joseph are seeming to fall in love quickly and Lydia and Sam enjoy watching their friend's love grow. Sam is sure this will help soften Lydia to him, but she and Beverly get involved in helping a homeless woman and it is plain that this might drive them even further apart.
Taking things slowly, and with much prayer, will they be able to put more than the love of each other and their child into their marriage?
Read A BEAUTIFUL ARRANGEMENT to find out.
It is available now from your favorite retailer. I was gifted an ARC by Zondervan by NetGalley and was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
May 15, 2020
Beth WIseman is one of my favorite authors so I was excited to read this book. I haven't read the first two books int his series so now I want to go back and read them.
The main characters in this book are Lydia and Sam. :Lydia became pregnant so she and Sam got married ..even though Lydia is only seventeen. Not having really a chance to establish a firm relationship, they are somewhat struggling in their new marriage. and also with being young parents to Mattie. They become matchmakers to two of their friends, Beverly and Joseph, and as they watch Beverly & Joseph's relationship evolve, it allows them to grow closer and also build their own relationship. In the meantime, there is a local homeless woman who they become involved with also. Helping her find her past and how she came to be homeless and live there is an interesting twist in the storyline. I loved reading this book and watching the relationships build.
Thank you to Zondervan Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me the opportunity read an advance copy of this book. This is my total and unbiased opinion of the book.
The main characters in this book are Lydia and Sam. :Lydia became pregnant so she and Sam got married ..even though Lydia is only seventeen. Not having really a chance to establish a firm relationship, they are somewhat struggling in their new marriage. and also with being young parents to Mattie. They become matchmakers to two of their friends, Beverly and Joseph, and as they watch Beverly & Joseph's relationship evolve, it allows them to grow closer and also build their own relationship. In the meantime, there is a local homeless woman who they become involved with also. Helping her find her past and how she came to be homeless and live there is an interesting twist in the storyline. I loved reading this book and watching the relationships build.
Thank you to Zondervan Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me the opportunity read an advance copy of this book. This is my total and unbiased opinion of the book.
August 20, 2021
A Beautiful Arrangement is the third and final book in the 'An Amish Journey' series, and it was my favourite by far, even though the first two were really good too.
Although this is the third book in the series, each book has been about a different couple, so you could read this without having read the first two.
A Beautiful Arrangement follows Lydia and Samuel, who are trying to figure out their relationship - even though they are married. They had given into temptation before they were married, and Lydia fell pregnant, given the two no choice but to marry, even though they don't really know each other.
They both try hard to make it work, but things keep getting in the way.
They arrange a meeting between their friends and as they play match-maker, they start to crave the romantic love that is missing in their own marriage.
It was a sweet and clean romance about finding love. The characters were wonderfully written and felt real, and the relationships were realistic. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and recommend this (and this series) to fans of Amish fiction, or if you like your romance clean.
Although this is the third book in the series, each book has been about a different couple, so you could read this without having read the first two.
A Beautiful Arrangement follows Lydia and Samuel, who are trying to figure out their relationship - even though they are married. They had given into temptation before they were married, and Lydia fell pregnant, given the two no choice but to marry, even though they don't really know each other.
They both try hard to make it work, but things keep getting in the way.
They arrange a meeting between their friends and as they play match-maker, they start to crave the romantic love that is missing in their own marriage.
It was a sweet and clean romance about finding love. The characters were wonderfully written and felt real, and the relationships were realistic. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and recommend this (and this series) to fans of Amish fiction, or if you like your romance clean.
April 15, 2020
A Beautiful Arrangement by Beth Wiseman is the final story in her Amish Journeys series and I think it may have been my favorite! Lydia and Samuel’s story of forgiveness, redemption, compassion, and love stirred something inside of me. Lydia is Mary’s younger sister, and we first met her in the first book of the series. Young and forced into a marriage because she got pregnant out of wedlock, she and Samuel are bitter and upset with the life they have. When they introduce two friends, Beverly and Joseph, they start to live vicariously through their relationship and also start to soften towards each other. Add a homeless woman with a lonely past and things get even more complicated. Wiseman weaves the stories of each romance and the homeless person into a perfect arrangement. If you haven’t read the first two books then hon should. But it isn’t necessary. This book can stand on its own beautifully. Wonderful story. Loved it!
I received a free copy of the story from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of the story from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2020
A moving story that leaves tears in your eyes as you close the book.
Lydia and Samuel's story teaches us how even the littlest lies can turn into a bigger problem that can tear lives apart. At times I would get frustrated at Lydia then I had to remind myself that she is only seventeen. No matter her upbringing, being a mom and wife at seventeen has to be extremely hard. She is just learning herself as an adult instead of a kid. Her maturity by the end of the book was absolutely amazing. A lot of love and understanding can go a long way.
A Beautiful Arrangement talks about unwed pregnancy, young marriage, dementia/mental illness and community. A book that I would share with an older teen on up. A clean read with no sex scenes, no foul language, and no violence.
I am sad to see this series end. It has been a beautiful series to read.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher, Zondervan, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
Lydia and Samuel's story teaches us how even the littlest lies can turn into a bigger problem that can tear lives apart. At times I would get frustrated at Lydia then I had to remind myself that she is only seventeen. No matter her upbringing, being a mom and wife at seventeen has to be extremely hard. She is just learning herself as an adult instead of a kid. Her maturity by the end of the book was absolutely amazing. A lot of love and understanding can go a long way.
A Beautiful Arrangement talks about unwed pregnancy, young marriage, dementia/mental illness and community. A book that I would share with an older teen on up. A clean read with no sex scenes, no foul language, and no violence.
I am sad to see this series end. It has been a beautiful series to read.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher, Zondervan, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
November 25, 2021
This was a cute Amish story of Lydia and Samuel. They're married and have a young baby, her name is Mattie. They were forced to marry by their parents because they conceived her out of wedlock. They feel as if they are strangers, because they hardly had the chance to date and get to know each other. Since getting married they have gone through the motions of being married and on the outside they appear to be a normal loving couple. It takes another couple Joseph and Beverly's new relationship to make Lydia and Samuel reevaluate their relationship. Lydia and Beverly bond over wanting to help an apparently homeless woman known as Margaret. In trying to learn more about Margaret, they inadvertently catch her attention. Margaret starts parking her truck at the end of Lydia and Samuel's driveway, which freaks them out. They learn more about Margaret, even that she was raised Amish! Although they are scared that she might be dangerous, Lydia still wants to help her. The rest of the story unfolds, bringing the families together and giving Margaret peace in her last days.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2022
A Beautiful Arrangement is an Amish romance novella by author Beth Wiseman. A Beautiful Arrangement is so beautifully written I read the whole novel in 2 sittings. A Beautiful Arrangement is installment #3 of An Amish Journey series and reads well as a standalone.
Samuel and Lydia Bontrager’s marriage was a marriage of convenience forced on them by their parents because Lydia was pregnant. Samuel and Lydia didn’t have a courtship phase which leads to a difficult marriage. Will their marriage survive the difficulties?
The only part of their marriage that is shared is their daughter Mattie. They have not consummated their marriage. They both want to build their relationship but it is hard. Even though they brought Joseph and Beverly together by matchmaking.
A Beautiful Arrangement is a story of how God works in the characters’ lives.
I give A Beautiful Arrangement 5*/5*
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Samuel and Lydia Bontrager’s marriage was a marriage of convenience forced on them by their parents because Lydia was pregnant. Samuel and Lydia didn’t have a courtship phase which leads to a difficult marriage. Will their marriage survive the difficulties?
The only part of their marriage that is shared is their daughter Mattie. They have not consummated their marriage. They both want to build their relationship but it is hard. Even though they brought Joseph and Beverly together by matchmaking.
A Beautiful Arrangement is a story of how God works in the characters’ lives.
I give A Beautiful Arrangement 5*/5*
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 2, 2022
A love story with a mystery blended in to this tale of forgiveness and new beginnings. This is book #3 in a series; although I haven't read the first two books, I was able to follow this story without any trouble.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the plot. A young Amish woman (Lydia) is forced into marriage by a teenage pregnancy and tries to overcome confusing emotions of guilt, shame and bitterness with her husband Samuel and their baby daughter Mattie.
Meanwhile, another young Amish couple explore their growing relationship as they face the tragedy of a well-intended but hurtful lie that almost destroys everything.
And then there is this scary, old homeless woman who most people in the area avoid. Her story winds its way through the others with precision and is written with compassion. It's done well. All the characters are done well.
Amish stories are predictable, but this one kept me interested. I would read the other two books in the series if my current reading list wasn't so long!
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the plot. A young Amish woman (Lydia) is forced into marriage by a teenage pregnancy and tries to overcome confusing emotions of guilt, shame and bitterness with her husband Samuel and their baby daughter Mattie.
Meanwhile, another young Amish couple explore their growing relationship as they face the tragedy of a well-intended but hurtful lie that almost destroys everything.
And then there is this scary, old homeless woman who most people in the area avoid. Her story winds its way through the others with precision and is written with compassion. It's done well. All the characters are done well.
Amish stories are predictable, but this one kept me interested. I would read the other two books in the series if my current reading list wasn't so long!
June 10, 2024
Lydia and Samuel got carried away one night and Lydia becomes pregnant. Being Amish this would cause shame to both families. The parents of both Lydia and Samuel think the two should marry in order to save face.
Lydia is now walking a crying baby at night because she has crying all the time.
When Samuel ask Lydia to set a lady she knows named Beverly up with his best friends, they all get closer. They all become friends, Beverly babysits her sisters baby a lot so now Lydia's daughter has a little friend to play with too.
Both Lydia and Samuel are enjoying watching their friends fall in love while each of them regret that their marriage was not made of love but having to get married because the had a baby.
Secretly Lydia loves her husband more and more each day. Samuel too secretly has secretly fallen in love with Lydia. How long will it take them to figure out even though there marriage did not start out with love that love can grow if they only knew how to let the other know how they feel.
Lydia is now walking a crying baby at night because she has crying all the time.
When Samuel ask Lydia to set a lady she knows named Beverly up with his best friends, they all get closer. They all become friends, Beverly babysits her sisters baby a lot so now Lydia's daughter has a little friend to play with too.
Both Lydia and Samuel are enjoying watching their friends fall in love while each of them regret that their marriage was not made of love but having to get married because the had a baby.
Secretly Lydia loves her husband more and more each day. Samuel too secretly has secretly fallen in love with Lydia. How long will it take them to figure out even though there marriage did not start out with love that love can grow if they only knew how to let the other know how they feel.
December 10, 2020
Amazing, clean read. My curiosity was extremely piqued about Lydia's story from the first book, so I was so excited there was one about her! Wonderful way to end this series with finding out how Lydia and Samuel's marriage was going after a rocky beginning. I love how different it was than typical Amish books, but still tasteful and clean. I loved all the characters (old & new!). I particularly loved Joseph's sense of humor and directness. I enjoyed learning about Margaret and the message of our responsibility to help those in need, mentally ill, or in her case, both. Very interesting layer to the story. I could sat so much more, but I don't wanna spoil any surprises. Amazing character development and the perfect ending! I just wish there was more to this series!
October 4, 2024
What a tearjerker of a book this is!! Amish couple, Lydia and Samuel are forced to marry because Lydia, at 16, was expecting. Now Maddie, their child, is 6 months old. The couple desires to grow in intimacy with one another, but both find it difficult to begin their relationship without first knowing one another through the practice of courtship. They befriend a young couple, who are beginning the courting process and they become an example to Lydia and Samuel. There are trials, along with an older woman with mental health issues whom everyone but Lydia avoids. Lydia befriends this friendless woman and the story takes an even more dramatic and emotional turn. Great story for those who enjoy clean romance. Have a tissue handy!
April 5, 2020
This is my honest review for an ARC that I received. Lydia and Samuel are made to marry when she becomes pregnant at 16. They had an affection for each other, but didn’t really know what love is about. In this story they learn to be a married couple and how to raise a family. Lydia meets Beverly and they become friends. Joseph works with Samuel and Joseph asks about Beverly and how he can get to know her better. Meanwhile as Lydia and Beverly get to know each other better they decide they need to figure out the mystery of the local homeless lady, Margaret. She has a home, but lives in her car. And so the story continues with plots and twists. Good read.
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