Softly Blows the Bugle

The Amish of Weaver's Creek #3

by Jan Drexler

When Elizabeth Kaufman received the news of her husband's death at the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863, she felt only relief. She determined that she would never be at the mercy of any man again, even if it meant she would never have a family of her own. Then Aaron Zook comes home with her brother when the war ends two years later.Despite the severity of his injuries, Aaron resolves to move West and leave the pain of the past behind him. He never imagined that the Amish way of life his grandfather had rejected long ago would be so enticing. That, and a certain widow he can't get out of his mind.Yet, even in a simple community, life has a way of getting complicated. Aaron soon finds that while he may have left the battlefield behind, there is another fight he must win--the one for the heart of the woman he loves.Welcome back to the Amish community at Weaver's Creek, where the bonds of family and faith bind up the brokenhearted.

Genres: Amish, Romance, Historical, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Amish Fiction, Fiction

315 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 20, 2020

About the author

Jan Drexler brings a unique understanding of Amish traditions and beliefs to her writing. Her ancestors were among the first Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s, and their experiences are the inspiration for her stories. Jan lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota with her husband of thirty-eight years, where she enjoys hiking in the Hills and spending time with their expanding family.

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jan Drexler has done it again. She's written another winner.
Any author can write a book about a different time period than we are currently in. It takes a very skilled author to write about a different time period, in this case the Civil War time period, and make it authentic. The descriptions from the gunshots to the food descriptions to the style of clothing make you feel as if you are in this time period.
The author has done her research and this time period is well represented in the Amish of Weaver's Creek series.
I recommend them all!

Pub Date 20 Oct 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jan Drexler again writes an amazing book that will have you reading through meals because you can't put it down. This is a story written during the Civil War, and Drexler nails it when it comes to the descriptions of everything happening during that time. Even the different foods they eat and the styles of clothes people wear. I love it when an author describes scenes so vividly that you feel like you are there in the book living it.

If you love war stories, and this one is Amish y’all, you will love this one. Check it out! You won't be sorry.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Ebosereme Nwamu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written Amish story with unexpected twists and turns I've never read before.
My heart broke for Elizabeth and what she had gone through in her last marriage. Her and Aaron shared a history of brokenness and that was one of the things that brought them together.
Both of them needed healing and to find the love of God again and the author wove a beautiful tale around it with mystery, suspense and the beautiful Amish flavour of family and faith.

God heals the brokenhearted and this book is a beautiful reminder of that.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I couldn't wait for the print copy to come out I borrowed a copy from Netgalley.
This book was awesome and I finished it one day! I mean, I couldn't help myself and Amish fiction is truly a delight to read.
I love Drexler's books! I love how her character's feelings come out to me through the story. So many emotions among a few other things. She also does an excellent job of including some mystery, not so favorable characters and a little bit of romance.
I think my favorite character is still Katie. She's so full of energy, love and I love her outlook on life. She never seems to let anything get her down and in turn it makes me happy too. It makes me happy because she reminds me of God's love for us all and not to let anything get us down no matter what it is.
I did however find myself rooting for Elizabeth. She's just truly an amazing woman. Yes, we all have fears in life too. She deserves a second chance just like we all do! Especially if it's God's will.
The one character I didn't like was Sammuel. He rubbed me the wrong way.
I will say that I highly recommend this book! It's post Civil War Amish fiction but oh my! It's still a wonderful read! I love anything by her.
My thanks to Netgalley for a wonderful read. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
“Softly Blows the Bugle”, by Jan Drexler (Revell), is an enjoyable historic Amish novel, with lovely characters, giving an interesting insight into Amish society, culture and religion in the post Civil War period.
In the beginning, Aaron is such a broken, wounded hero, feeling lost and without hope, and it was wonderful to see him slowly learn to deal with his issues and regain confidence. He is determined, thoughtful, kind and gentle; although the “lost family” twist felt a bit far-fetched, his character sort of deserved that kind of positive thing happening to him.
I liked the story, the main and side characters and I felt comfortable with the overall predictability of the plot, but Elizabeth’s character traits of naivety and immaturity rubbed me the wrong way. She was a good, generous person, but her blind trust in Solomon and the way the marriage ideas jump to her mind like they were the most natural thing felt just odd and unbelievable, especially considering her previous negative experience.
There were other things that seemed weird, defying basic common sense and not very clever or rational, like igniting a fire in July or some aspects of the chase of the villain.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Fiction is my favorite Genre to read. I especially enjoy when it is adds
in Historical Fiction. Jan Drexler is an WONDERFUL Author and I thoroughly
enjoy her books and Softly Blows the Bugle was no exception.

Elizabeth Kaufman is a new widow, her husband dying in War. Elizabeth felt
relief instead of grief in the loss of her husband. He was not Amish, like her,
and the marriage was a struggle. Elizabeth isn't interested in marrying again,
that is until she meets Aaron Zook, a friend of her brother. Aaron's Grandfather
rejected the Amish faith, but Aaron is growing fond of the Simple Life of the Amish
faith. He is struggling though to win the heart of Elizabeth, especially since there
is another man, Samuel, trying to win her heart. Although, it seems Samuel has
devious intentions and really only wants her land, not her love. Will Elizabeth allow
her heart to be open to love again? Is there love in the horizon for Aaron and
Elizabeth?

I truly enjoyed this book, from the very first chapter. Amish usually marry
Amish and it was surprising that Elizabeth's first husband wasn't Amish.
The characters in this book have a good connection and the book flows
well. This is book #3 in The Amish of Weaver's Creek series, but it a GREAT
stand alone novel. I have not read the first 2 in this series, but I intend to now.
I look forward to more books from Jan Drexler. Cozy Book!

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was happy to hear the clarion call of the bugle inviting me back to what should have been the uncomplicated Amish lives in Weaver’s Creek. However, Jonas has returned home after 3 yrs serving as medic in the Civil War. He can only marry Katie if the church approves him for membership, and everyone knows the Amish don’t believe in war. Jan Drexler ups the drama in her third book of the Amish of Weaver’s Creek, Softly Blows the Bugle.
While this could be read separately, it is so much richer when read following the first two books. Aaron Zook, a close non-Amish friend of Jonas’s, has followed him home.
Aaron has issues to sort through, some caused by the war, some inherited. His very presence causes conflict for widowed Elizabeth, who must decide if she wants to court respectable Amishman Solomon Mast, or wait on Aaron, who is neither Amish nor settled.
So many different threads going in this story, and I loved them each and every one. I finished the book in one day, as I couldn’t pull myself away from the events at Weaver’s Creek as they became more and more intense. While Jonas’s patience and trust in Gott amazed me, I felt like Aaron and Elizabeth grew the most throughout the novel. I loved how Ms. Drexler feeds the reader just enough doubt and clues at the right times to make one feel as if they have suddenly figured out something essential. I also liked the inclusion of the Amish gossip. Doesn’t every group have at least one person who needs to learn to control their tongue? Anxiously awaiting Ms. Drexler’s next series. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and publisher through JustRead Publicity Tours and NetGalley. I also received an ARC from LibraryThing. All opinions are my own and unsolicited.

Notable quotables:

“That’s a mother’s kiss, young man. And a mother’s kiss lasts forever.”

“No man is whole when he is by himself. All of us are broken on the inside until we find our place with God...”

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Left a Civil War widow, Elizabeth returns home to her Amish family. Her brother who served during the war, mainly as a medic, brings home a crippled Confederate soldier Aaron he'd met in the hospital. The soldier, while not Amish, bore the surname Zook. He doesn't know much about them, but they feel certain he may be related. Meanwhile a man calling himself Solomon Mast turns up, moving onto a nearby farm. Solomon is determined to rush Elizabeth into marriage so he can get the land her late husband left. However, Aaron recognizes him from Virginia and knows he is an imposter. Lots going on here. The story itself is predictable but pleasant. The writing bothers me. Editors left too many sentences beginning with "And" -- something those of a certain age learned not to do. The must unforgiveable error occurs near the end of the book when the Mississippi lawyer brings out a birth certificate for the boy he brings for Elizabeth to rear. Sorry! Birth certificates did not exist in Civil War and Reconstruction era Mississippi. I received an advance reading copy through LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for an honest review.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every now and then I read a book that just takes my breath away. This book was one of those. Oh my, this was a late night reading book because I absolutely could not put it down. And as much as I wanted to find what happens, at the same time I never wanted it to end! It was THAT GOOD!
I am not going to "re-write" the book in this review, because you can read the book blurb. I am going to say it was excellent. This author has moved right up the ranks of my favorite writers! It was a historical suspense and romance with twists and turns that just surprised me. There was not a dull moment in this exciting historical Amish fiction.

The characters were captivating, including the bad guy! The writing was believable and held my interest throughout. I could easily picture myself in the settings of the book and the time period. The excellent writing would make a great movie!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in this series, and yes, it can be read alone. If you have followed this series you already know about Ruben, and now I was cringing that Elizabeth was going to make the same mistake again!
The Civil War is now over, and we have a new arrival in this community in Ohio, Aaron Zook, an Amish name, but?
This story is so good, and will quickly have you page turning, and looking for answers. Who can Elizabeth trust? Surely one of her own, not a newcomer?
Secrets are revealed, and you will cringe, but the loving aspect of this community will warm your heart!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish fiction is a somewhat newer subgenre of Christian fiction for me, one that I’ve been reading for only a few years. Growing up about an hour and a half from Ohio Amish Country and visiting there often, I had some familiarity with the culture, and reading well-researched novels has offered additional insight. I do, however, find Amish historical fiction to be just as fascinating. This series is the first that I’ve ever read about the Amish during the Civil War era, and this third book especially sheds light on the unique impacts on their communities.

In Jan Drexler’s “Softly Blows the Bugle,” book three of The Amish of Weaver’s Creek, the Civil War has recently ended, and Jonas Weaver returns home. With him is Aaron Zook, a former Confederate soldier who lost his leg in battle and his faith when his mother died years earlier. Two generations removed from his Amish heritage, he is determined to head west to escape all that he’s lost; likewise, Jonas’s sister, Elizabeth Kaufman, struggles under the burden of her own tainted past. When a stranger arrives in town, he may hold the key to helping them both move on.

While this book can be read as a standalone, I would encourage readers to go through the series in order for the most fulfilling experience and to meet all of the main characters in depth. Each story makes more of an emotional impact if readers understand the background. The Weaver’s Creek community, by and large, serves as an example of what the body of Christ is meant to be: welcoming and loving, without compromising its convictions. The kinship is so heartwarming; despite his previous sympathies and being an Englischer, Aaron finds loving care and acceptance, which in turn allows for healing of more than just his physical body. In a similar manner, the Amish response to slavery and segregation plays out through interactions with the former slave named Dulcey. Another interesting aspect of this story is the disagreement between the Weaver’s Creek traditionalists and the more liberal Amish from other districts. In so many ways, these kinds of situations and issues reflect what we are dealing with today, reminding us that everyone has hardships and struggles, and that we are not as different from each other as we may seem.

Redemption and second chances are themes heavily interwoven into “Softly Blows the Bugle.” Drexler takes her characters through the emotions and doubts of the journey to forgiveness and to surrendering to God, and one of the beautiful facets of it is how God can use other people to draw the hurting to Himself. As Aaron begins to realize, “Grandpop had always told him that the Amish were high and mighty, bragging about their special place in God’s eyes, but Elizabeth didn’t seem to be like that at all. Her whisper…maybe he wasn’t meant to hear it…but her whisper betrayed a brokenness as deep as his own.” With brokenness comes pain and messy situations; sensitive readers may want to be forewarned that there are a few brief scenes of violence and brief discussions about past trauma. In my opinion, they are not graphic and do fit in with the time period and plot. There is one scene that stretched credulity for me, but it didn’t detract from the story overall. I think that Casper Zook says it best: “No man is whole when he is by himself. All of us are broken on the inside until we find our place with God—broken, sore, and weary. Your brokenness is visible, but the solution is the same as it is for any other man. God will make you whole.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you tarry till you're better, you will never come at all.

There is an excuse that is prevalent in life and in the church. When I have enough money, I will get married. When my job is stable, I will have children. When I am done sinning, I will come to the Lord. Elizabeth Kaufman and Aaron Zook share this excuse. Set after the civil war and the Amish settling in Lancaster County, PA, our main characters find themselves in the same dilemma - hiding past hurts and insecurities. Aaron fought with Elizabeth's brother in the civil war and has come back home to the Amish settlement half a man. A loss of a leg has set a great depression on him. Elizabeth has been baptized to the faith after the death of her husband. A widow of an abusive marriage, Elizabeth will not allow herself to marry again unless he is a strong believer. Elizabeth suffers from the loss of being whole because of the past. Then a new man comes into the community. A strong Amish man with big ideals and he has eye on Elizabeth.

Aaron and Elizabeth's relationship is a friendly one however, it changes when Aaron suspects the stranger Samuel with evil intentions. He just can't prove it. When Samuel continues to pursue Elizabeth and she believes the lies, it takes the faithfulness of a good friend and the reminder of scripture to turn and look at the author of our faith.

This probably is one of my favorite Amish books has it incorporated historical fiction and the not so perfect faith of Elizabeth and Aaron to drive what insecurities does to faith. How we look at ourselves to a mighty God and compare our lives to what others are or have. There is a working of faith in Elizabeth and Aaron's story that is endearing and painful. It is the suffering that we draw closer to Jesus and how we can embrace it. I hope if you decide to read their story, you will find some comfort in their faith and the faith of our Creator!

A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are so many layers that make up this book that is set in the Amish community of Weaver's Creek, Ohio in the year 1865. Two soldiers have returned from fighting in the Civil War but their difficulties are far from over. Elizabeth Kaufman's brother Jonas Weaver and an Englisher named Aaron Zook have adjustments to make in their return to civilian life after the trauma of war but Aaron faces the added battle of adapting to the loss of his leg . His anger is understandable but he also wants acceptance and slowly, we readers are shown the kind and thoughtful person that he truly is. An abusive relationship with her late husband had left Elizabeth wondering if she would ever enjoy a happy marriage. Will the hurt that Elizabeth experienced prevent her from trusting another man or is it possible that Aaron can break through the protective shell that she has placed around her heart ? Can this young widow avoid being manipulated a second time when another Amish gentleman sets his sights on her?

Author Jan Drexler has created some memorable characters, both good and bad, and placed them in situations that are sometimes unpleasant. In the end, however, this is a story with a strong faith message that outshines the bad. Softly Blows the Bugle is a wonderful way to conclude The Amish of Weaver's Creek series and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy Amish romance and historical Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was never required and no monetary compensation was given. These are my own thoughts.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a masterful historical Amish story filled with charming and flaw characters that capture me from the opening. Elizabeth Kaufman past has not been easy, but when her brother arrives home after the war with Aaron Zook new and old thoughts surface. Solomon Mast arrived in Weaver’s Creek with strong determination to accomplish his goal for land by marrying Elizabeth brought more turmoil. .

There’s a suspense element to this picturesque, touching, and winsome story by Drexler. The unexpected happenings, a caring community, family connections, budding romance, faith and letting go of the past made this a winsome historical read. I was right in the midst of all the scenes, dialogues and undercurrent tension arising. Jan Drexler’s characters were dimensional with true to life challenges through the story with all they faced after the war. I appreciate how she brought in the struggles of previous slaves and how the Amish viewed them added even more depth to the story.

I would like to see another story with the Weaver’s Creek characters in the future. The Amish of Weaver’s Creek series is filled with historical events of the Civil War and post war era that makes this series a true authentic read with the gifted storytelling by Drexler.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own sincere thoughts.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth Kaufman was relieved to hear that her husband would not return from war, now a widow she has returned to her Amish roots and is determined never to marry or be under man's thumb again.

The end of the war brings the return of her brother, and along with him an Englisher friend, Aaron Zook, who is bent on heading West. Also new to the valley is Solomon Mast, who has bought the neighboring property, and has his eye set on marriage.

The third in a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. Well researched I think that it did a great job of showing what Amish communities might have been like in the later 1800's. The story was engaging and fast paced, I like how it follows up on characters from the previous books. But it was very difficult to see Elizabeth headed into a disaster after already having gone through so much. Plus, I strongly dislike being inside the bad guy's head, especially this one. He was so cold and calculating, I know why his chapters were important to the plot, but I just hated him as a person SO much!

Overall, this was an engaging read, with well developed characters, and an entertaining plot making for a quick read. Strong themes of faith, and community. A wonderful read for fans of historical and Amish fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Abigail Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

After months of not reading Amish fiction, I wanted to read something with the calmness of the Amish faith (even if I don't agree with all of their beliefs.)

I ended up really loving "Softly Blows the Bugle" and I hope to get a paperback soon, the story was not anything like the normal Amish fiction you come across, the way that this book went into what it might have been like for the Amish during the civil war was something that intrigued me.

I could tell there was going to be a good bit mystery but I didn't expect it to get to be as dark as it did though it ended up to end nicely. The sudden ending fits well with the story and I look forward to more from Jan Drexler.

I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!! (Wish i could rate it 10 Stars!!)
Review:
Another great book in this series set during The Civil War.

The Characters were enjoyable to read about. The Setting was beautifully told which made it easy to picture the scenery while reading.

I wish there was a 4th book in this series or a spinoff series with one of the other characters cause i'd love to see how their lives are now!!

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

The characters spoke like they lived in the 21st century.

Content: abusive husband, abusive man, beating, murder, war injuries

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Softly Blows the Bugle" by Jan Drexler is book 3 in the Amish of Weaver's Creek. I have read one of the other books, but each book can be read as a stand a lone. In this story, we meet Elizabeth Kaufman. She loses her husband to the Civil War. After this tragic event, she vows to never have to depend on a man. Then we meet Aaron Zook. His grandfather left the Amish faith - but he feels so drawn to it, and Elizabeth. Elizabeth has a choice - marry upstanding Amish man, Solomon Mast - or wait and see if Aaron settles into the Amish community. Aaron thinks that Solomon is hiding something and is not all who he seems to be - I liked this aspect of the book. The small bit of drama/tension mixed in this book helped make this a great story. There is a lot of stuff that goes on in this book. It was fun to see all the adventures, the mishaps and the dilemmas that this book had. Elizabeth's brother wants to marry the girl of his dreams, but he has to be confirmed as a church member. There is a problem. He served in the Civil War for 3 years and the Amish do not believe in war. I believe the author has done some amazing research. I felt that I was getting an Amish History lesson while reading this story. You don't think when you look back at the Civil War, what or how the Amish were involved. The author has created some well written characters. They are not perfect, they have flaws, they have issues. I enjoyed this story very much. I received a copy of this book through the JustRead tour blogging program - all thoughts are my own.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Satisfying Final Treat

After a bit of a sabbatical from doing book reviews, I’m finally in the swing of things again. Getting things kicked off with a couple of great novels really did the trick! My latest find is Softly Blows the Bugle, Book Three in Jan Drexler’s The Amish of Weaver’s Creek series. What an accomplishment!

Readers are transported back to Civil War-era Weaver’s Creek. This time, Drexler digs deep into the story of Elizabeth Kaufman – a war-time widow with a very dark past. She seems to finally be setting things right when her plans of singlehood are turned upside down. Everyone thinks it is high time she remarried.

Not-Amish Aaron Zook is visiting Weaver’s Creek after the war. He fought for the rebs and nearly lost his life. He’s hoping to go west to make a new start – but that Elizabeth Kaufman – there’s something about her…

Mischief and deceit come to Weaver’s Creek in the form of a mystery person. Will Elizabeth’s dream of having a family every come true? Poor woman – will she EVER catch a break? Can Aaron find his way in the strange Amish community?
Read and find out!

Softly Blows the Bugle had me hook, line, and sinker – in one chapter. Drexler has an amazing ability to give the reader a vivid image of the landscape. The storylines are well-thought out and keep you guessing until the end. Although this is the third in the series, it may easily be read as a stand-alone. Add this to your To Be Read pile!

I was given Softly Blows the Bugle in exchange for my honest review.

[Becca Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

As much as I enjoy Amish fiction it's been a while since I dived into one, so I was excited to pick this one up. I read the first book in this series around the time it released but missed the second. Although this is the third book in the series it could easily be read as a standalone. I loved the plot in this one and it easily held my attention and kept the pages turning. Elizabeth was a likable heroine and it didn't take long for me to connect with her and feel drawn to her journey toward healing and love. It was also easy for me to root for Aaron, who was broken and angry but underneath was just looking for a place to belong. There were so many things to love in this story and absolutely adored it. I will most definitely be reading more from this author in the future.

*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Dee Wolters · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review: This is the third book in the series and the characters have been introduced in the previous books. This book does not back track to fill in a new reader of the history, so I suggest that you read this series in order. The characters are complex and deal with significant issues. There is a great deal of racism with the characters, which is shown by a white man keeping a former black slave in a form of slavery, even though she is legally free. Another character is dealing with domestic violence and even though her husband is dead, the affects still cloud her life.

It is a moving book and was easy to read.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Softly Blows the Bugle was a well written story that was very exciting to read! A young widow, Elizabeth, has survived a bad marriage to a terrible man. She promises herself she will never marry again. Then she meets two men. Aaron has come home from the war with her brother. He's planning on going west to settle. Then there is Solomon, who seems to be a settled Amish man in good standing. As she gets to know both men, she gets closer to Solomon, who asks her to marry him. But there is something about him, she can't seem to explain, and she eventually turns him down. That angers him, and he kidnaps her. Aaron goes looking for her and Solomon shoots him. Very exciting story I enjoyed reading! Clean with a happy ending!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Softly Blows the Bugle by Jan Drexler
(The Amish of Weaver's Creek, #3)
When Elizabeth Kaufman received the news of her husband's death at the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863, she felt only relief. She determined that she would never be at the mercy of any man again, even if it meant she would never have a family of her own. Then Aaron Zook comes home with her brother when the war ends two years later.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Aaron resolves to move West and leave the pain of the past behind him. He never imagined that the Amish way of life his grandfather had rejected long ago would be so enticing. That, and a certain widow he can't get out of his mind.
Yet, even in a simple community, life has a way of getting complicated. Aaron soon finds that while he may have left the battlefield behind, there is another fight he must win--the one for the heart of the woman he loves.
Welcome back to the Amish community at Weaver's Creek, where the bonds of family and faith bind up the brokenhearted.
This is Elizabeth Kaufman and Aaron Zook's story.
Life and knitting. Each one goes along smoothly, needles and events gliding against each other to form a seamless whole, until the day you look back and see the one missed stitch that has affected the entire fabric.
Elizabeth Kaufman dropped the ruined sock into her lap and closed her eyes, leaning her head against the back of the rocking chair on the shaded front porch. A bird sang somewhere above the roof, its fluid call carrying through the quiet afternoon air like an autumn leaf falling. It rose, then paused. Rose again, then swooped down only to end on a high trilling note.
A shriek from inside the house brought an abrupt end to the birdsong. Katie Stuckey’s feet pounding on the stairway and more shrieks brought Elizabeth to her feet, her knitting falling to the porch floor.
“He’s coming!” Katie slammed the wooden screen door open and grabbed Elizabeth’s arms, spinning her in a circle. “I saw him from the window! On the road!”
Jonas propelled her toward the door. “I left Aaron in Mamm’s hands, the poor fellow.”
A lean man sat at the kitchen table, a spoon halfway to his mouth. Jonas had been right. Mamm had dished up a bowl full of chicken and noodles for the stranger, and he had already finished most of it. He put his spoon down when he saw Elizabeth and rose to his feet.
Elizabeth forced herself not to stare as the man grabbed a pair of crutches and hobbled toward her, one trouser leg pinned up at the knee.
“Aaron Zook,” he said, thrusting a hand toward her. “Jonas told me about his family. I’m guessing you must be Elizabeth.”
I highly recommend reading.
Softly Blows the Bugle by Jan Drexler is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jan Drexler.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell.

[June Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

A touching historical Amish story set in post-Civil War Ohio . . .

This well-written novel begins in May, 1865, in the small Amish community of Weaver's Creek, Ohio. Widow Elizabeth Kaufman lives with her friend, Katie Stuckey. Both women are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Elizabeth's brother, Jonas, who is returning home after serving in the army for the last three years.

Jonas is accompanied by Aaron Zook, a war veteran who is an amputee. Aaron is not Amish, and this takes Elizabeth by surprise. When it is revealed that Aaron was a Confederate soldier who was cared for at a Union hospital by Jonas, a medic, Elizabeth is fraught with bad memories of her deceased husband, Rueben, also a Confederate soldier.

Throughout the story, the author deftly peels away layer after layer of the protective coating Elizabeth has placed around her heart for the past decade-plus. We learn of the many difficulties, challenges, and abuses she suffered at the hands of Rueben who was not a member of the Amish faith.

Meanwhile, Aaron deals with the emotion and trauma of learning to literally navigate his way through life with only one leg and a pair of crutches. This character was perhaps my favorite of the entire book because of his strength, determination, resilience, and perseverance. Even with what he had been through, Aaron was kind, helpful, and concerned about the well-being of those around him.

The author gifted us with a mystery which added to the anxiety and tension in much of the plot. The villain in this story is despicable, cruel, and hateful; his beliefs and actions accurately reflect historical views on slavery and the poor treatment of people, in general. The author did such a fine job of creating and developing this character that I found myself tensing up each time he appeared on the page.

Many of the characters experienced profound personal growth and a reawakening of their faith which I found to be genuinely inspiring on a personal level. The faith thread was powerful throughout the book. As a reader, reading Amish fiction has delighted me for the past dozen years ago or so. This is one of the finest Amish novels I have ever read. Coupled with my love for historical fiction, I would have to place this book in my 'Top 5' of the many novels I have read in 2020.

I look forward to reading more work by this gifted author. I highly-recommend this book for fans of Amish and Christian fiction, Amish and Christian historical fiction, Amish and Christian romance, and post-Civil War fiction.

I received a paperback copy of this book from Revell Publishers through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

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[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Elizabeth Kaufman's brother, Jonas, returns from the Civil War with a friend in tow, Aaron Zook is a broken man. His missing limb is the only visible reminder that life after the war is very different from his life before, but it is not the only thing gone from Aaron's life. His father, grandfather, and family farm are gone as well, leaving Aaron as untethered and unsure as he is unsteady. Elizabeth knows she shouldn't be glad that her husband, Reuben, is a casualty. However, she is relieved that she is no longer subject to his cruelty. She has found peace in her singleness and is prepared to live the rest of her life taking care of her parents, siblings, and their families. She certainly has no feelings for Aaron Zook, and Aaron has no intentions to stay in Weaver's Creek. Of course, our feelings and intentions are pliable in the Author's hands.

Jan Drexler offers up this story as the third installment in her series, The Amish of Weaver's Creek. While I try to read series books in order, even going to the very beginning before reading a book for review, I managed to look over that tidbit before beginning Softly Blows the Bugle. I was well into the book before I realized the oversight, and too committed to stop long enough to read the first two books, The Sound of Distant Thunder and The Roll of the Drums. There were a few instances that I felt I might have gained some insight by reading those books first, but Softly Blows the Bugle reads well as a stand alone book. The author builds Weaver's Creek in a way that is beautifully mapped in my mind. Her characters have depth and quickly become familiar to the reader.

Thank you to the publisher and the author for allowing me a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions within this review are my own and are completely genuine.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting story set in a fascinating time of history, right after the Civil War ended. Aaron's friend, Jonas, comes back from the war wanting to marry Katie and has to be allowed to join the church to do that. It was interesting to see how he was viewed for going to fight and the discussion to decide if he would be allowed to. I really felt for Elizabeth and all she had gone through and that's why I was so surprised that she was swayed so easily to fall for Solomon, a new Amish man in town. Even when she had misgivings and there were warning signs that he might not be all he seemed, she convinced herself it was fine. I also felt like she made a couple of really dumb decisions. For those reasons I was pretty frustrated for a while with her. I get that she thought she would get her dream after all but still. She obviously had issues from her marriage and didn't really understand grace or forgiveness as she kept punishing herself for past choices, despite having grown up in the Amish faith. I really liked Aaron as he was self-sacrificing, gentle and determined. He had much to learn about the Amish faith and lifestyle plus he had turned away from God as a child when his mother died. There were a few sweet romantic moments and some suspenseful ones. There was also a small story line about Levi, a young man in the district, meeting someone, too. This story was fine as a stand-alone but I probably would have liked it better having the background of the characters from the first two books. You might like it if you like Amish or historical fiction.

I received this book free from Revell. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:

When Elizabeth Kaufman received the news of her husband's death at the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863, she felt only relief. She determined that she would never be at the mercy of any man again, even if it meant she would never have a family of her own. Then Aaron Zook comes home with her brother when the war ends two years later.

Despite the severity of his injuries, Aaron resolves to move West and leave the pain of the past behind him. He never imagined that the Amish way of life his grandfather had rejected long ago would be so enticing. That, and a certain widow he can't get out of his mind.

Yet, even in a simple community, life has a way of getting complicated. Aaron soon finds that while he may have left the battlefield behind, there is another fight he must win--the one for the heart of the woman he loves.
Welcome back to the Amish community at Weaver's Creek, where the bonds of family and faith bind up the brokenhearted.

My Review:

Jan Drexler is new to me, but never again. Her writing really honestly seems timeless. No matter the subject, I am sure could never be lifeless or boring. Elizabeth is turning out to be the model woman. When she hears of her husband's death during the Civil War--she is actually relieved. I would be distraught, but after all she had endured, she was glad to be done with it.

She decides she now has a chance at a new life, a new beginning. But its not long before two eligible men look her way. What will Elizabeth do? Whom will she choose to begin again with?


This book has many twists and turns in its short pages, but full of interesting meat. Thats for sure!

[Stephanie Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book number 3 in Jan Drexler's series called The Amish of Weaver's Creek. I didn't read the first two books but still able to follow along. What I love about this Amish series is it takes place during the Civil War. I am a huge history person. The story is set after the Civil War and the Amish settling in Lancaster County, PA. Aaron fought with Elizabeth's brother in the war and came back home to the Amish settlement crippled. Elizabeth, a Civil War widow, returns home to her Amish family. Her brother served as a medic in the war. He brings a wounded Confederate soldier, Aaron, who he met in the hospital. Solomon Mast moves into the nearby farm. He is determined to rush Elizabeth to marry him so he can get the land her late husband left. Aaron steps in and exposes the truth about Solomon. Will Elizabeth listen to Aaron and open her eyes? Lots of things happen throughout the story. Some of the storylines are predictable but there is a couple of twists and turns.

Drexler put a lot of detail into the story to transport the reader to Jonas, Katie, Elizebeth's life during a time of unrest. She did her research. Her characters are realistic. We saw Aaron going from a broken wounded hero with no hope then we see him learning to be confident again. I love how gentle and kind he is. Elizabeth is determined to not have an abusive marriage again.
You can see God helping them through their struggles and happiness. I highly recommend reading this series. So many heartfelt messages in Drexler's writings.

"I was given a free copy from Revell for an honest opinion. "

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this sweet story about the Amish in Weaver’s Creek. Elizabeth is a young widow who has a broken heart and trust issues. Aaron fought in the Civil War and was gravely wounded there. Traveling to Weaver’s Creek with Jonas after the war, Aaron feels like half a man and although he wants a “normal” life, he does not think that is a possibility for him. There is also a mystery involving a newcomer to the community named Solomon who immediately sets his eyes on Elizabeth and insists that she should marry him quickly. The story is fast-paced and engaging, with plenty of information about the Amish gentle and accepting way of life. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and especially enjoyed the themes of redemption and a new chance at a new life. Although this is book #3 of a series, I have not read the other books and had no difficulty understanding the relationships between the characters and the plot itself. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Amish fiction, a clean read and an altogether enjoyable story.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”