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Surprised by Love #3
An Unexpected Amish Christmas
In USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good's new Surprised by Love Amish romance, two lonely pen pals--a grieving woman with too many responsibilities and a shy man paralyzed in a buggy accident--fall in love through their letters. Will the Green Valley Farmer's Market be the unlikely backdrop for translating their feelings from the page to in-person?
Recovering from a horse and buggy accident that took the lives of his family, Jacob Zook is struggling to regain both his spirit and his body. While his legs remain stubbornly opposed to moving, he exercises his hands by writing, and finds the perfect outlet for his grief in inspirational letters to the Amish newspaper. When Keturah Esch, a woman who works at the Green Valley Farmer's Market, responds with gratitude, Jacob has no idea that his hardship is about to become a blessing...
Dealing with her own loss, and responsible for her three siblings, Keturah's new correspondence with the anonymous letter writer becomes a source of joy. And when a shy young man confined to a wheelchair begins to visit the market, Keturah is happy to make his acquaintance--never knowing that Jacob is afraid to reveal himself as her pen pal. After all, what can he offer her, when he can't even walk? Can faith bring two lonely people together in perfect union? As Christmas approaches, Jacob and Keturah get a chance to make their gifts to each other worthy of the blessing of love...
A crackling fire, the promise of snow, the delicious smell of fresh-baked cookies and fallen pine needles...when Christmas is coming, every heart lifts in song.
Recovering from a horse and buggy accident that took the lives of his family, Jacob Zook is struggling to regain both his spirit and his body. While his legs remain stubbornly opposed to moving, he exercises his hands by writing, and finds the perfect outlet for his grief in inspirational letters to the Amish newspaper. When Keturah Esch, a woman who works at the Green Valley Farmer's Market, responds with gratitude, Jacob has no idea that his hardship is about to become a blessing...
Dealing with her own loss, and responsible for her three siblings, Keturah's new correspondence with the anonymous letter writer becomes a source of joy. And when a shy young man confined to a wheelchair begins to visit the market, Keturah is happy to make his acquaintance--never knowing that Jacob is afraid to reveal himself as her pen pal. After all, what can he offer her, when he can't even walk? Can faith bring two lonely people together in perfect union? As Christmas approaches, Jacob and Keturah get a chance to make their gifts to each other worthy of the blessing of love...
A crackling fire, the promise of snow, the delicious smell of fresh-baked cookies and fallen pine needles...when Christmas is coming, every heart lifts in song.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published October 26, 2021
81 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 28, 2022
This is an Amish Christmas Romance, and this is the third book in the Surprised by Love series. I have read the other books before reading this book. I have to say part of the reason I loved this book so much is because I read the other books and know the side characters in this book. I loved the main characters in this book, and the main characters stories was so touching. Jacob's character overcame so much in this book, and I loved how the author wrote his character. This is a great story, but I would not say this as a lot of Christmas. There is a little bit of Christmas sprinkle through out this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zebra) or author (Rachel J. Good) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
October 4, 2021
Jeremiah Zook and Keturah Esch are the main characters in this book. Both have recently lost family members and are still grieving. Keturah and her sisters lost both parents and Jeremiah lost his mother. Keturah being the oldest girl of the family immediately took over the role as parent to Lilliane, Rose and Maleah. She also took over the role of running her parent's pretzel booth located in the Green Valley Farmer's Market. Jeremiah was hurt badly in the same accident that killed his mother. Though Jeremiah and Keturah and her siblings are Amish they don't know each other when the story begins.
Jeremiah has been staying at a rehab center for physical therapy to help him regain the use of his limbs and hands. As part of his therapy he writes letters to people who have lost family members offering them encouragement , prayers and helpful scripture verses. He sends Keturah a letter and signs it as from a caring friend. Keturah finds encouragement and peace knowing a caring person is praying for her.
She replies immediately and the two become anonymous pen pals.
While at the Green Valley Market Jeremiah stops to buy pretzels from the Esch girls and meets Keturah . He later goes to work at the Pretzel booth as part of his therapy. Jeremiah knows who Keturah is but she doesn't know that he is the Friend Who Cares letter writer. When the two become attracted to each other he knows he should tell her but has too much time passed? He doesn't want Keturah's pity but would like to court her. What will Keturah think if she ever finds out he is the one sending her those letters? Would Keturah want to date a disabled man like him? All around the Pretzel booth other shops and customers are celebrating the Christmas season but Jeremiah and the Esch girls are missing their late family members during this joyful time of the year.
I loved this Christmassy romantic story because the characters tried to make the best of a sad time in their lives. I especially liked the way other shop owners at the Market went out of their way to help the sisters get through their time of grief and uncertainties. I thought all the characters in this book were great except Bo . I was drawn into the story from the start and by the last part of the book I couldn't put it down. I thought the story had a beautiful ending.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction and for those who enjoy Christmas books. This is book three of Rachel Good's Surprised by Love series. I read it as a stand alone but would like to read the other books that lead up to this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#AnUnexpectedAmishChristmas#NetGalley
Jeremiah has been staying at a rehab center for physical therapy to help him regain the use of his limbs and hands. As part of his therapy he writes letters to people who have lost family members offering them encouragement , prayers and helpful scripture verses. He sends Keturah a letter and signs it as from a caring friend. Keturah finds encouragement and peace knowing a caring person is praying for her.
She replies immediately and the two become anonymous pen pals.
While at the Green Valley Market Jeremiah stops to buy pretzels from the Esch girls and meets Keturah . He later goes to work at the Pretzel booth as part of his therapy. Jeremiah knows who Keturah is but she doesn't know that he is the Friend Who Cares letter writer. When the two become attracted to each other he knows he should tell her but has too much time passed? He doesn't want Keturah's pity but would like to court her. What will Keturah think if she ever finds out he is the one sending her those letters? Would Keturah want to date a disabled man like him? All around the Pretzel booth other shops and customers are celebrating the Christmas season but Jeremiah and the Esch girls are missing their late family members during this joyful time of the year.
I loved this Christmassy romantic story because the characters tried to make the best of a sad time in their lives. I especially liked the way other shop owners at the Market went out of their way to help the sisters get through their time of grief and uncertainties. I thought all the characters in this book were great except Bo . I was drawn into the story from the start and by the last part of the book I couldn't put it down. I thought the story had a beautiful ending.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction and for those who enjoy Christmas books. This is book three of Rachel Good's Surprised by Love series. I read it as a stand alone but would like to read the other books that lead up to this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#AnUnexpectedAmishChristmas#NetGalley
October 19, 2021
I have enjoyed this delightful Amish romance series from Pennsylvania Amish country centered around the Green Valley Farmer's Market. Jeremiah lost his mamm in an accident that left him in a wheelchair living in a rehab center. Keturah and her three sisters lost both of their parents in an accident as well. In Jeremiah's grief, he reaches out to other Amish who have lost their family members by sending letters of encouragement. Keturah finds comfort in Jeremiah's letters, which he signs as A Friend Who Cares to stay anonymous. Jeremiah has an opportunity to visit her family pretzel stand at the market where he meets Keturah and her sisters and later he has an opportunity to work at the stand through his rehab. But he never lets Keturah know who he is even though he and she continue to correspond. The relationship of the two and the sisters is a rocky road but one worth traveling. This story is one of dealing with grief, old hurts, pride, and hope for a future, including scripture and many prayers. We see characters from the other two stories including the meddling (in a good way) and wise Mrs. Vandenberg, who sees and knows everything going on and is the star all in the series, in my opinion. Lovely story for those who enjoy Amish romance.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
October 15, 2021
"An Unexpected Amish Christmas" by Rachel J. Good is a wonderful story and a definite read for Christmas. I'll take a cinnamon sugar pretzel. Oh, and a raisin pretzel.
Keturah and her three sisters run a pretzel stand at the Green Valley Farmer's Market. As the book begins we learn that their parents have died in the past week and now they must run the family business themselves. Their father had a certain way of doing things and constantly watched to ensure that the pretzel stand ran to his *exact* specifications. Their Mamm was the person that made sure everything ran smoothly and would quietly soften, if possible, her husband's smarting comments. The girls are missing their parents horribly but Keturah is the oldest and feels the responsibility for her sisters and the family business.
Jeremiah is in rehab -- physical rehab. An Amish dairy farmer and extremely active young man now needs 24 x 7 care. although there is a possibility of some recovery. As part of his physical therapy, he is using a special device on his fingers to write. When he was injured, his Mamm died of her injuries. Because he understands the pain of such loss, he has decided to select someone in the Amish newspaper who has also suffered such a loss. Writing is a long and painful process but he continues to write letters.
Then he selects Keturah and writes his letter including some Bible verses that have helped him in hopes it helps her. And she replies. And a new world opens for both of them. Slowly. But both lives are improved.
Add in a delightful ninety plus Mrs. Vandenburg who is a take-charge kind of lady. You'll love her.
And Darryl, a young man with a generous, loving heart.
There is even a dog in the list of characters which is always a plus in my book.
Oh, and Bo. Boo Hiss!!! Ladies, if you've ever been around that kind of guy, you'll know what I mean.
I *loved* this book. Enjoyed it from page 1 to the end. Do add this one to your Read-This-Christmas list. I highly recommend.
A thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington Books, for the opportunity to read and review an ARC (advanced reader's copy) of this book. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Rating: 5 stars
Cover rating: Excellent.
#AnUnexpectedAmishChristmas #NetGalley #RachelJGood #KensingtonBooks
Keturah and her three sisters run a pretzel stand at the Green Valley Farmer's Market. As the book begins we learn that their parents have died in the past week and now they must run the family business themselves. Their father had a certain way of doing things and constantly watched to ensure that the pretzel stand ran to his *exact* specifications. Their Mamm was the person that made sure everything ran smoothly and would quietly soften, if possible, her husband's smarting comments. The girls are missing their parents horribly but Keturah is the oldest and feels the responsibility for her sisters and the family business.
Jeremiah is in rehab -- physical rehab. An Amish dairy farmer and extremely active young man now needs 24 x 7 care. although there is a possibility of some recovery. As part of his physical therapy, he is using a special device on his fingers to write. When he was injured, his Mamm died of her injuries. Because he understands the pain of such loss, he has decided to select someone in the Amish newspaper who has also suffered such a loss. Writing is a long and painful process but he continues to write letters.
Then he selects Keturah and writes his letter including some Bible verses that have helped him in hopes it helps her. And she replies. And a new world opens for both of them. Slowly. But both lives are improved.
Add in a delightful ninety plus Mrs. Vandenburg who is a take-charge kind of lady. You'll love her.
And Darryl, a young man with a generous, loving heart.
There is even a dog in the list of characters which is always a plus in my book.
Oh, and Bo. Boo Hiss!!! Ladies, if you've ever been around that kind of guy, you'll know what I mean.
I *loved* this book. Enjoyed it from page 1 to the end. Do add this one to your Read-This-Christmas list. I highly recommend.
A thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington Books, for the opportunity to read and review an ARC (advanced reader's copy) of this book. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Rating: 5 stars
Cover rating: Excellent.
#AnUnexpectedAmishChristmas #NetGalley #RachelJGood #KensingtonBooks
May 27, 2023
Jacob Zook and Ketura Esch have more in common than either of them realize. For starters, Jacob has lost his family due to a horse and buggy accident and is now confined to a wheelchair. Due to his extensive injuries he has sold his family farm and is currently residing in a rehab center. He becomes pen pals with someone who is also suffering loss. However, he hides his identity and location as he does not want any pity.
When Jacob begins working at the Green Valley Farmer's Market and Auction Keturah finds herself quite drawn to him. However, she is also drawn to her mysterious pen pal. While Jacob is only responsible for himself, after her loss, Keturah is responsible for her three siblings. Even with the love of her siblings, Keturah finds herself quite lonely and has begun to pour her heart out in the letters she has been writing.
Although this book is named An Unexpected Amish Christmas, there was not a Christmas feel to this story. That did not take away from the wonderful love story where Keturah finds her heart nearly split in two.
Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this
ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
When Jacob begins working at the Green Valley Farmer's Market and Auction Keturah finds herself quite drawn to him. However, she is also drawn to her mysterious pen pal. While Jacob is only responsible for himself, after her loss, Keturah is responsible for her three siblings. Even with the love of her siblings, Keturah finds herself quite lonely and has begun to pour her heart out in the letters she has been writing.
Although this book is named An Unexpected Amish Christmas, there was not a Christmas feel to this story. That did not take away from the wonderful love story where Keturah finds her heart nearly split in two.
Many thanks to Zebra and to NetGalley for this
ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 23, 2021
First of all This is book 3 in the series. And I have not read the first ones. But with that being Said, I really liked This book. IT was different form other Amish fiction book, i guess i expect the more Amish culture from these Books. The buggy. The rumspringa the faith. This book was for me more about family losing parentes and how to continue on. It was a sweet book. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read This e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
October 13, 2021
Pride keeps us silent when we should speak. It makes us pretend we're someone we're not. Anit it causes us to hide the truth.
Two tragedies struck a secret identity letter between Jacob Zook and Keturah Esch. They were encouraged by their letters to each other however, they did not who the other was or the circumstances. This sweet Amish romance reminds me of another that is more popular "You Got Mail" taken from the old movie with Jimmy Stewart "Shop Around the Corner". Jacob Zook knows Keturah's story. How her and her sisters are survived by her their parents. They are grieving their loss and learning to go on with the family business which is running a Pretzel shop at the Green Valley Farmer's Market. Jacob Zook is going thru his own tragedy. An accident left him terribly injured and his only surviving parent killed. Jacob is now going thru therapy and Keturah's story brought him a new sense of purpose. He sought her thru letter and with the encouragement he received he wanted to meet her. In his wheelchair, he was able to meet Keturah and help her out in the shop with her sisters. Something clicked in his short time and with the help of the owner of Valley's Farmer Market, he received a job helping Keturah.
Their story reminds me that suffering brings people together and when they work together for a purpose. Suffering also brings misunderstanding such as why, how can I go on, and what do I have to offer. Both Keturah and Jacob answer these questions for themselves and each other. Christmas also is a reminder of anticipation and hope. The timing of Christmas is around the corner and adds to a sweet love story that sees beauty in the ashes.
A special thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Two tragedies struck a secret identity letter between Jacob Zook and Keturah Esch. They were encouraged by their letters to each other however, they did not who the other was or the circumstances. This sweet Amish romance reminds me of another that is more popular "You Got Mail" taken from the old movie with Jimmy Stewart "Shop Around the Corner". Jacob Zook knows Keturah's story. How her and her sisters are survived by her their parents. They are grieving their loss and learning to go on with the family business which is running a Pretzel shop at the Green Valley Farmer's Market. Jacob Zook is going thru his own tragedy. An accident left him terribly injured and his only surviving parent killed. Jacob is now going thru therapy and Keturah's story brought him a new sense of purpose. He sought her thru letter and with the encouragement he received he wanted to meet her. In his wheelchair, he was able to meet Keturah and help her out in the shop with her sisters. Something clicked in his short time and with the help of the owner of Valley's Farmer Market, he received a job helping Keturah.
Their story reminds me that suffering brings people together and when they work together for a purpose. Suffering also brings misunderstanding such as why, how can I go on, and what do I have to offer. Both Keturah and Jacob answer these questions for themselves and each other. Christmas also is a reminder of anticipation and hope. The timing of Christmas is around the corner and adds to a sweet love story that sees beauty in the ashes.
A special thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
October 27, 2021
An Unexpected Amish Christmas by Rachel J. Good is a lovely story. It is the third book in the Surprised by Love series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading all three of these enticing tales. I thought An Unexpected Amish Christmas was well-written with realistic, developed characters. I enjoyed getting to know Jeremiah Zook who was a dairy farmer prior to the accident. He lost his mother and now Jeremiah finds himself confined to a wheelchair. He is in rehab learning to reuse his hands and manage on his own once he is discharged. Keturah Esch is the oldest of four girls. The siblings lost both of their parents in accident. Keturah is now responsible for raising her three younger sisters, managing the house as well as the family’s pretzel stand at the Green Valley Farmer’s Market. Jeremiah read about Keturah and her sisters in the Die Botschaft. He decides to write Keturah a letter anonymously which brings her comfort. Then Jeremiah begins helping at the pretzel stand, but he does not share that he is the letter writer. Keturah struggles to do all the tasks her parents completed and welcomes Jeremiah’s help at the stand. Mrs. Vandenberg becomes involved which brings changes into all of their lives. I just love Mrs. Vandenberg. She is a force of nature. Mrs. Vandenberg adds humor and lightness to the story along with love. She is a generous woman who is a good example to us all. It was interesting learning about the making of soft pretzels. We also get to see the difficulties someone with disabilities or injuries experiences. The author definitely captured the struggles and pain. There is some Christmas scattered throughout the book. The market is having a Christmas Extravaganza and Gina is trying to get each booth owner to decorate. I enjoyed reading the latest Surprised by Love novel. It was a joy to see things improve for Jeremiah and the Esch sisters. An Unexpected Amish Christmas is a feel-good story that left me smiling.
July 5, 2021
5 stars, Original Amish Novel
AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS
By Rachel J. Good
This novel is a well-done, original Amish novel. When you think of an Amish novel, you usually imagine lots of horses and buggies and large families. This book is not necessarily like that, but it is 100 percent an Amish fiction novel.
Jeremiah Zook, a 25-year-old dairy farmer who has been severely injured in a horse and buggy accident is living in a rehab facility as he desperately tries to regain the mobility and independence that he possessed, before the accident. As part of his therapy, he begins writing to other Amish who have suffered a loss of a family member. He begins a pen pal relationship with Keturah Esch.
Keturah Esch's family runs a baked pretzel shop in a local farmer's market mall. She and her three younger sisters are all at a loss, since their parents died in a buggy accident, throwing their young lives into turmoil. She receives an anonymous condolence letter from "A Friend" and Keturah feels that the author of the letter says the right things that speak directly to her heart. Keturah, at age 22 does not have time for courting, even if she did have someone who interested her. Her sisters, Lilliane,16, Rose, 12, and Maleah, 7 keep her busy between running the pretzel shop and keeping the younger two in school. She finds herself drawn to her mysterious pen pal, but also to Jeremiah who begins working in her shop.
Keturah and Jeremiah find they have many things in common, besides both of them being Amish and having suffered the loss of both sets of parents. Highly recommended.
Much gratitude to #netgalley #zebra for the complimentary copy of #anunexpectedamishchristmas I was under no obligation to post a review.
AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS
By Rachel J. Good
This novel is a well-done, original Amish novel. When you think of an Amish novel, you usually imagine lots of horses and buggies and large families. This book is not necessarily like that, but it is 100 percent an Amish fiction novel.
Jeremiah Zook, a 25-year-old dairy farmer who has been severely injured in a horse and buggy accident is living in a rehab facility as he desperately tries to regain the mobility and independence that he possessed, before the accident. As part of his therapy, he begins writing to other Amish who have suffered a loss of a family member. He begins a pen pal relationship with Keturah Esch.
Keturah Esch's family runs a baked pretzel shop in a local farmer's market mall. She and her three younger sisters are all at a loss, since their parents died in a buggy accident, throwing their young lives into turmoil. She receives an anonymous condolence letter from "A Friend" and Keturah feels that the author of the letter says the right things that speak directly to her heart. Keturah, at age 22 does not have time for courting, even if she did have someone who interested her. Her sisters, Lilliane,16, Rose, 12, and Maleah, 7 keep her busy between running the pretzel shop and keeping the younger two in school. She finds herself drawn to her mysterious pen pal, but also to Jeremiah who begins working in her shop.
Keturah and Jeremiah find they have many things in common, besides both of them being Amish and having suffered the loss of both sets of parents. Highly recommended.
Much gratitude to #netgalley #zebra for the complimentary copy of #anunexpectedamishchristmas I was under no obligation to post a review.
July 2, 2021
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is a wonderful and clean romance that I definitely enjoyed reading. The latest in a series of books by Rachel Good I enjoyed reading about other characters I have read in other books. This book can definitely be read as a stand alone novel. Jeremiah has been in an accident, and is wheelchair bound. He has therapy sessions he must go to, but he also writes letters to people that are hurting. One young lady is Keturah, and they begin writing to each other. He meets her at her pretzel shop, and soon works with her. She is doing the best she can, since both her parents were killed in a terrible accident. Not only does she have to take charge of the shop, but now she has to be the leader of their family, and care for her three younger sisters. She can't help but care deeply for the letter writer, who remains nameless, but she is also having feelings for Jeremiah. Wonderful story I really loved!
December 28, 2021
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is an inspiring story written by Rachel J. Good in her series Surprised by Love. This story centers around the Green Valley Farmers Market and four young girls that have recently lost both of their parents. The characters the author has developed to tell her story are absolutely amazing and will really draw the reader into the storyline. The storyline will definitely keep the readers interest as friendships are formed which harbor secrets to be revealed. I love the character Mrs. Vandenberg. She is the silent owner of the market and plays a big role in helping those in need. She tries to use her age as a factor in getting what she needs but the author described her in the story as a ninety-somethinh dynamo with a huge heart and twenty-something energy, stamina, and ideas. She is a force to be reckoned with. I have enjoyed the previous books in this series and this one is perfect to continue the series. This story is filled with loss, friendships, healing, and faith. Another excellent story by this author.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. Congratulations to Rachel J. Good on releasing another fantastic story for her readers enjoyment.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. Congratulations to Rachel J. Good on releasing another fantastic story for her readers enjoyment.
September 28, 2021
I was happy to be back at the farmer's market with all of my old friends and yes I even made some new ones!
I was especially happy to see Mrs. Vandenberg. I really wish we had more people with her generosity. I feel the world would be a better place if everyone shard and worked together like this book shows.
I love Amish stories but I don't like it if a character is killed off right at the beginning. It sort of kills it for me. But that said the rest of the story was beautifully written.
Keturah sure had a lot on her shoulders! I'm glad that she had good people to help her out.
That's another thing I like about the Amish is community. Helping one another.
I really appreciated Jeremiah and the friendship that he offered. I thought that Good did a terrific job in making him and the rest of the characters believable.
I really appreciated what the author was trying to offer throughout this sweet Christmas story.
Hope, Love and forgiveness. Messages that we can use in everyday life. Most importantly family.
I like how God put people in keturah's life right when she needed them. God does that for us too.
I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I was especially happy to see Mrs. Vandenberg. I really wish we had more people with her generosity. I feel the world would be a better place if everyone shard and worked together like this book shows.
I love Amish stories but I don't like it if a character is killed off right at the beginning. It sort of kills it for me. But that said the rest of the story was beautifully written.
Keturah sure had a lot on her shoulders! I'm glad that she had good people to help her out.
That's another thing I like about the Amish is community. Helping one another.
I really appreciated Jeremiah and the friendship that he offered. I thought that Good did a terrific job in making him and the rest of the characters believable.
I really appreciated what the author was trying to offer throughout this sweet Christmas story.
Hope, Love and forgiveness. Messages that we can use in everyday life. Most importantly family.
I like how God put people in keturah's life right when she needed them. God does that for us too.
I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
March 19, 2024
This is the 3rd book in series
My mother in law gave me this book. When I saw the author Rachel J Good I scooped it up knowing it was going to be good .
God ordained it and results are love ,hope and healing. Several twists and turns along the with learning about God and knowing he has been there all along.
What a journey this family has been through .
Well done.
My mother in law gave me this book. When I saw the author Rachel J Good I scooped it up knowing it was going to be good .
God ordained it and results are love ,hope and healing. Several twists and turns along the with learning about God and knowing he has been there all along.
What a journey this family has been through .
Well done.
November 15, 2021
fantastic book. loved it
August 23, 2021
Jacob Zook is in rehab recovering from a horrible accident that took his mother. He decides to send condolences to others who have recently lost family members. Keturah Esch is struggling with running the family business (a pretzel stand in the local farmers market ) and help her 3 younger sisters deal with their grief after their parents are killed in an accident. Jacob sends his condolences anonymously but it helps Keturah so much that she continues to correspond with him even though she doesn't know his identity.
I loved this story and enjoyed learning about the innerworkings of the pretzel business. I also enjoyed revisiting characters and setting from earlier in the series. Recommend!
I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I loved this story and enjoyed learning about the innerworkings of the pretzel business. I also enjoyed revisiting characters and setting from earlier in the series. Recommend!
I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 2, 2021
These young people have such hard emotions to navigate without much guidance. They lean on each other through their letters discussing grief and forgiveness, among other issues.
In person they develop a friendship... and maybe romantic feelings... but...
Wonderful characters, great story!
In person they develop a friendship... and maybe romantic feelings... but...
Wonderful characters, great story!
October 12, 2021
Jeremiah had been in a tragic buggy accident in which he lost his Mother and the use of his legs and some of his fingers. He has a lot to overcome in therapy and in his grief he reads the paper everyday and reaches out to those that have lost loved ones as well.
Keturah and her younger sisters had recently lost both their parents. She receives a letter from A Friend who cares including bible verses to help her deal with their loss. In the meantime it helps Jeremiah too.
I really enjoyed this story and just can't say how emotional it will make you feel. You get so involved in the characters that you fall in love with all of them except I did not care for Bo. But it really is a great book that you don't want to miss out reading.
Keturah and her younger sisters had recently lost both their parents. She receives a letter from A Friend who cares including bible verses to help her deal with their loss. In the meantime it helps Jeremiah too.
I really enjoyed this story and just can't say how emotional it will make you feel. You get so involved in the characters that you fall in love with all of them except I did not care for Bo. But it really is a great book that you don't want to miss out reading.
October 26, 2021
While An Unexpected Amish Christmas is the third book in the Surprised by Love series, it can be read as a stand-alone novel. However, several characters make appearances in all the books, so for a broader understanding of them, I would read the series in order.
Keturah and her siblings lost their parents, casting Keturah into the role of mom and caretaker. Not only that, but she has to keep their family pretzel stand going. She is extremely lonely and weary until a pen pal reaches out who seems to know exactly what she is going through. I admired Keturah's strength as she was forced into these roles. She does her best to honor her parents and care for her siblings, trying to maintain a positive attitude, even amid their grief. While she allows her sisters to grieve and gives them the grace to do that, Keturah struggles with her own emotions.
Jeremiah has also recently lost a parent and his mobility in an accident. He feels guilty for the accident and reaches out to others who have lost loved ones, hoping to help with his guilt and to feel like he has a purpose. Once Jeremiah meets Keturah he has a greater motivation for doing his therapy in the hopes to gain his full mobility back. While this is a noble goal, I did not agree with his thoughts that while he was in a wheelchair he had nothing to offer. That's simply not true.
I enjoyed this story. It has a unique storyline and is not the "typical" Amish story, while several threads kept the story moving. It is a quick read that covers loss, grief, forgiveness, and love. As I mentioned earlier that are several characters that make reappearances, like Mrs. Vanderberg, a wealthy old lady with matchmaking tendencies, who everyone loves, and Bo with his womanizing ways who everyone tends to avoid. The character development is great as you feel like you are there with the characters.
While the story is more focused on Keturah and Jeremiah's lives, it does slowly build-up to Christmas. I would recommend this story to anyone who loves a sweet Christmas story, Amish story, or love story. Fans of Shelley Shepard Gray, Beth Wiseman, and Amy Clipston will enjoy this series by Rachel J. Good.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Keturah and her siblings lost their parents, casting Keturah into the role of mom and caretaker. Not only that, but she has to keep their family pretzel stand going. She is extremely lonely and weary until a pen pal reaches out who seems to know exactly what she is going through. I admired Keturah's strength as she was forced into these roles. She does her best to honor her parents and care for her siblings, trying to maintain a positive attitude, even amid their grief. While she allows her sisters to grieve and gives them the grace to do that, Keturah struggles with her own emotions.
Jeremiah has also recently lost a parent and his mobility in an accident. He feels guilty for the accident and reaches out to others who have lost loved ones, hoping to help with his guilt and to feel like he has a purpose. Once Jeremiah meets Keturah he has a greater motivation for doing his therapy in the hopes to gain his full mobility back. While this is a noble goal, I did not agree with his thoughts that while he was in a wheelchair he had nothing to offer. That's simply not true.
I enjoyed this story. It has a unique storyline and is not the "typical" Amish story, while several threads kept the story moving. It is a quick read that covers loss, grief, forgiveness, and love. As I mentioned earlier that are several characters that make reappearances, like Mrs. Vanderberg, a wealthy old lady with matchmaking tendencies, who everyone loves, and Bo with his womanizing ways who everyone tends to avoid. The character development is great as you feel like you are there with the characters.
While the story is more focused on Keturah and Jeremiah's lives, it does slowly build-up to Christmas. I would recommend this story to anyone who loves a sweet Christmas story, Amish story, or love story. Fans of Shelley Shepard Gray, Beth Wiseman, and Amy Clipston will enjoy this series by Rachel J. Good.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 16, 2021
Writing the letter seemed to help him.
This lady gives Englischers a bad name.
Poor Maleah.
He's so nice.
Their daed sounds...rude.
I just got a grabber, and it really helps.
Mrs. Vandenberg is ninety-two? Good for her!
Someone slap Bo Ridley.
Oh, I like Gideon's display.
Darryl is a saint.
Maybe Olivia can work the credit card machine.
I have never hear heard of red beet eggs.
He should tell her he has money.
But the Englischer used the machine, not her.
Oh dear. She's worried about cheating on him with himself.
Small world. But I have a feeling Mrs. V. already knew.
Cute epilogue.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This lady gives Englischers a bad name.
Poor Maleah.
He's so nice.
Their daed sounds...rude.
I just got a grabber, and it really helps.
Mrs. Vandenberg is ninety-two? Good for her!
Someone slap Bo Ridley.
Oh, I like Gideon's display.
Darryl is a saint.
Maybe Olivia can work the credit card machine.
I have never hear heard of red beet eggs.
He should tell her he has money.
But the Englischer used the machine, not her.
Oh dear. She's worried about cheating on him with himself.
Small world. But I have a feeling Mrs. V. already knew.
Cute epilogue.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2021
AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS by Rachel J. Good is the third book in the Surprised by Love series. It’s the delightful story of Jeremiah Zook and Keturah Esch and how their paths crossed in the most unusual way during the Christmas holidays.
Jeremiah lost his father when he was 6. He just recently lost this mother in a horrible accident – the same one that left him critically injured recuperating in rehab. The one thing he hasn’t lost was his faith. Because he was the one that organized the van trip and kept insisting his mother accompany him until she agreed, he blames himself for her death as well as the others he had encouraged to go. One of the ways he tries to bring himself some peace has been to reach out unanimously to folks he reads about in the Amish newspaper with letters of encouragement. It wasn’t until he wrote a letter to Keturah, after reading about the death of both her parents, that he received a reply to one of his letters in the form of a post in the paper. Although he knew who she was, he decided to leave his identity as “a friend who cares”.
The death of Keturah’s parents left her as the adult to care for her three younger siblings and the one responsible to run the family pretzel business in the Green Valley Farmer’s Market in order to support them. Maintaining a home, business and seeing to her siblings needs left her very little time to deal with her own grief. Her father had been an extremely strict disciplinarian, but it was his ruthlessness with her younger siblings that she was glad to know was over. Though a relief, it also brought her sadness for her feelings. Receiving the unanimous letter really helped her deal with her feelings. The writer seemed to understand what she was going through and the scriptures he sent for her to lean on during these trying times really helped. When the writer agreed to continue corresponding, she looked forward to each and every letter like a lifeline. She honestly could feel a personal connection to the author of these letters.
Mrs. Vandenberg, the elderly former owner of the farmer’s market and one with still a lot of influence and connections, suggests that Jeremiah be the first client from the rehab to work at the farmer’s market in the pretzel stand. With her help and financial backing, she would expand the stand to accommodate wheelchairs and he would have all the aids he needed to perform his duties. Knowing he would be helping Keturah and that he would be able to be close to her, he accepted. Due to his physical limitations and heavy dependability on others, he had resigned himself never to marry to become a burden to someone else, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t have a deep friendship. The problem was he knew who Keturah was, but she had no idea that Jeremiah and “a friend who cares” were one in the same.
Will Jeremiah’s working at the stand help or create more problems? Will Lilliane accept all the changes knowing they were in direct opposite from her father’s teachings? Will little Maleah’s heart tugging connection to Jeremiah build her confidence and help her recover from some of the harsh words of her father? How will Keturah react when she finds out about her friend and Jeremiah being one in the same? Can their friendship stand the lies and deceit? Can Keturah show Jeremiah that he is worthy of a relationship? Can love overcome grief and injure to bring two pen pals together? Will they find out they have more in common than either of them thought possible? Is there a Christmas miracle in store for all of them?
AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS is a heartwarming story that will reel you in from page one and keep you turning pages to the very last page as you hope for healing for Jeremiah, both physically and mentally, and for help and direction for Keturah in the new role she’s been thrust into. Rachel J. Good weaves the story with an amazing faith thread that has you feeling good knowing God has the answers for both the good times and the bad times. I would most definitely recommend AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS to anyone that loves a wonderful, Christian story that not only tugs at your heart but leaves you with a feel good smile. FIVE STARS!
Jeremiah lost his father when he was 6. He just recently lost this mother in a horrible accident – the same one that left him critically injured recuperating in rehab. The one thing he hasn’t lost was his faith. Because he was the one that organized the van trip and kept insisting his mother accompany him until she agreed, he blames himself for her death as well as the others he had encouraged to go. One of the ways he tries to bring himself some peace has been to reach out unanimously to folks he reads about in the Amish newspaper with letters of encouragement. It wasn’t until he wrote a letter to Keturah, after reading about the death of both her parents, that he received a reply to one of his letters in the form of a post in the paper. Although he knew who she was, he decided to leave his identity as “a friend who cares”.
The death of Keturah’s parents left her as the adult to care for her three younger siblings and the one responsible to run the family pretzel business in the Green Valley Farmer’s Market in order to support them. Maintaining a home, business and seeing to her siblings needs left her very little time to deal with her own grief. Her father had been an extremely strict disciplinarian, but it was his ruthlessness with her younger siblings that she was glad to know was over. Though a relief, it also brought her sadness for her feelings. Receiving the unanimous letter really helped her deal with her feelings. The writer seemed to understand what she was going through and the scriptures he sent for her to lean on during these trying times really helped. When the writer agreed to continue corresponding, she looked forward to each and every letter like a lifeline. She honestly could feel a personal connection to the author of these letters.
Mrs. Vandenberg, the elderly former owner of the farmer’s market and one with still a lot of influence and connections, suggests that Jeremiah be the first client from the rehab to work at the farmer’s market in the pretzel stand. With her help and financial backing, she would expand the stand to accommodate wheelchairs and he would have all the aids he needed to perform his duties. Knowing he would be helping Keturah and that he would be able to be close to her, he accepted. Due to his physical limitations and heavy dependability on others, he had resigned himself never to marry to become a burden to someone else, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t have a deep friendship. The problem was he knew who Keturah was, but she had no idea that Jeremiah and “a friend who cares” were one in the same.
Will Jeremiah’s working at the stand help or create more problems? Will Lilliane accept all the changes knowing they were in direct opposite from her father’s teachings? Will little Maleah’s heart tugging connection to Jeremiah build her confidence and help her recover from some of the harsh words of her father? How will Keturah react when she finds out about her friend and Jeremiah being one in the same? Can their friendship stand the lies and deceit? Can Keturah show Jeremiah that he is worthy of a relationship? Can love overcome grief and injure to bring two pen pals together? Will they find out they have more in common than either of them thought possible? Is there a Christmas miracle in store for all of them?
AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS is a heartwarming story that will reel you in from page one and keep you turning pages to the very last page as you hope for healing for Jeremiah, both physically and mentally, and for help and direction for Keturah in the new role she’s been thrust into. Rachel J. Good weaves the story with an amazing faith thread that has you feeling good knowing God has the answers for both the good times and the bad times. I would most definitely recommend AN UNEXPECTED AMISH CHRISTMAS to anyone that loves a wonderful, Christian story that not only tugs at your heart but leaves you with a feel good smile. FIVE STARS!
November 22, 2021
4.5 stars.
An Unexpected Amish Christmas by Rachel J. Good is an uplifting Amish romance about healing and love. While this newest release is the third book in the Surprised by Love series, it can be read as a standalone. I also highly recommend the first two romances as well.
Jeremiah Zook is recovering from an accident and coming to terms with the changes in his life. He is currently unable to walk due to the injuries sustained in an accident, but he is willing to put in the hard work in hopes he will walk again. He has begun writing letters to people who have recently lost a loved one. Jeremiah relates his own experiences dealing with grief and hardship in hopes of helping them work through their own losses.
One of the recipients of his letters is Keturah Esch who recently lost both parents. She is now raising her younger sisters, Lilliane, Rose and Meleah. She is also in charge of making decisions for her siblings and their family pretzel stand at the Green Valley Farmer's Market. Keturah is overwhelmed by these new responsibilities but she tries to remain strong for her sisters. She is surprised by the anonymous letter she receives in the mail. But Keturah soon comes to rely on the words written by a stranger to boost her spirits and calm her when her life is stressful.
Mrs. Vandenburg might not own the farmer’s market any longer but she is still involved in the local community. Through her kindly interventions, Jeremiah begins working at the Esch pretzel stand. In order to bring Mrs. Vandenburg's charitable operation to fruition, Keturah agrees to changes in the size and layout of the stand. But some of the necessary changes in their business operation cause friction between Keturah and Lilliane.
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is heartwarming slow-burn romance between two delightful characters. Keturah is a vibrant young woman who must mourn while at the same time running a business and caring for her sisters. Lilianne, Rose and Meleah are well-drawn characters whose reactions to their new circumstances ring true. Jeremiah faces and overcomes adversity through prayer, hard work and a positive attitude. He and Keturah greatly enjoy spending time together but will his secret ruin not just their friendship but any chance of a future with her?
Rachel J. Good brings readers a heartfelt novel of faith, forgiveness and love while also providing a gentle reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. I absolutely loved and highly recommend this latest addition to the Surprised by Love series.
An Unexpected Amish Christmas by Rachel J. Good is an uplifting Amish romance about healing and love. While this newest release is the third book in the Surprised by Love series, it can be read as a standalone. I also highly recommend the first two romances as well.
Jeremiah Zook is recovering from an accident and coming to terms with the changes in his life. He is currently unable to walk due to the injuries sustained in an accident, but he is willing to put in the hard work in hopes he will walk again. He has begun writing letters to people who have recently lost a loved one. Jeremiah relates his own experiences dealing with grief and hardship in hopes of helping them work through their own losses.
One of the recipients of his letters is Keturah Esch who recently lost both parents. She is now raising her younger sisters, Lilliane, Rose and Meleah. She is also in charge of making decisions for her siblings and their family pretzel stand at the Green Valley Farmer's Market. Keturah is overwhelmed by these new responsibilities but she tries to remain strong for her sisters. She is surprised by the anonymous letter she receives in the mail. But Keturah soon comes to rely on the words written by a stranger to boost her spirits and calm her when her life is stressful.
Mrs. Vandenburg might not own the farmer’s market any longer but she is still involved in the local community. Through her kindly interventions, Jeremiah begins working at the Esch pretzel stand. In order to bring Mrs. Vandenburg's charitable operation to fruition, Keturah agrees to changes in the size and layout of the stand. But some of the necessary changes in their business operation cause friction between Keturah and Lilliane.
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is heartwarming slow-burn romance between two delightful characters. Keturah is a vibrant young woman who must mourn while at the same time running a business and caring for her sisters. Lilianne, Rose and Meleah are well-drawn characters whose reactions to their new circumstances ring true. Jeremiah faces and overcomes adversity through prayer, hard work and a positive attitude. He and Keturah greatly enjoy spending time together but will his secret ruin not just their friendship but any chance of a future with her?
Rachel J. Good brings readers a heartfelt novel of faith, forgiveness and love while also providing a gentle reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. I absolutely loved and highly recommend this latest addition to the Surprised by Love series.
December 5, 2021
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is book 3 in the Surprised by Love series. I’d reviewed book 2 through Netgalley and loved it so much that I bought book 1. Hence, I was excited to read An Unexpected Christmas.
I was a little disappointed by the beginning. The story starts out a little slow; we are introduced to Jeremiah (the synopsis calls him Jacob which was confusing at first) and the circumstances surrounding why he decides to write anonymous letters,. We are also introduced to Keturah (whom we met in book 2 - she runs the pretzel stall in the market) and her sisters who are muddling their way in the aftermath of tragedy.
The story picks up a little after the first couple chapters; however, most of the book left me with more questions. Having read the first two books in the series, I tried hard to connect them with this third book and was left feeling so befuddled. By the end of the story, I still could not understand how Jeremiah did not know Keturah. I feel as though I’m missing a big puzzle piece. Jeremiah’s friend, Zeke, is Isaac’s brother (Isaac and Sovilla’s story is book 2); Zeke and Isaac’s family are Fern’s neighbors (Fern’s story is book 1), and Fern has a stall in the market. Yes, the same market where Keturah has her pretzel stall. The brothers’ family has an auction business in the market. Considering Jeremiah and Zeke are neighbors, that must mean they live in the same district as the market. Surely then they are in the same *church* district? And if they are, how does Jeremiah not know who Keturah is, besides the information he read in the papers about her family tragedy? Amish communities usually aren’t so massive that one only finds out about a significant tragedy in the community through the newspaper. By the time they discovered each other’s identities, it still seemed a little far-fetched that they did not know who the other person was in the first place.
Confusion aside, the romance in the story was sweet. The climax and resolution had similar tones to the ones in the first two books of the series, but I did not mind that. I’m a huge fan of happily ever after endings, and this story did not disappoint in that aspect.
It would be wonderful if there is another book in the series; I’ve enjoyed reading about the recurring market characters and I’m kind of invested in reading more about their businesses and relationships! But, I hope the next book will be less confusing than this one.
I was a little disappointed by the beginning. The story starts out a little slow; we are introduced to Jeremiah (the synopsis calls him Jacob which was confusing at first) and the circumstances surrounding why he decides to write anonymous letters,. We are also introduced to Keturah (whom we met in book 2 - she runs the pretzel stall in the market) and her sisters who are muddling their way in the aftermath of tragedy.
The story picks up a little after the first couple chapters; however, most of the book left me with more questions. Having read the first two books in the series, I tried hard to connect them with this third book and was left feeling so befuddled. By the end of the story, I still could not understand how Jeremiah did not know Keturah. I feel as though I’m missing a big puzzle piece. Jeremiah’s friend, Zeke, is Isaac’s brother (Isaac and Sovilla’s story is book 2); Zeke and Isaac’s family are Fern’s neighbors (Fern’s story is book 1), and Fern has a stall in the market. Yes, the same market where Keturah has her pretzel stall. The brothers’ family has an auction business in the market. Considering Jeremiah and Zeke are neighbors, that must mean they live in the same district as the market. Surely then they are in the same *church* district? And if they are, how does Jeremiah not know who Keturah is, besides the information he read in the papers about her family tragedy? Amish communities usually aren’t so massive that one only finds out about a significant tragedy in the community through the newspaper. By the time they discovered each other’s identities, it still seemed a little far-fetched that they did not know who the other person was in the first place.
Confusion aside, the romance in the story was sweet. The climax and resolution had similar tones to the ones in the first two books of the series, but I did not mind that. I’m a huge fan of happily ever after endings, and this story did not disappoint in that aspect.
It would be wonderful if there is another book in the series; I’ve enjoyed reading about the recurring market characters and I’m kind of invested in reading more about their businesses and relationships! But, I hope the next book will be less confusing than this one.
October 31, 2021
This is book 3 in the Surprised by Love series. I don't think that It is necessary to read other books in the series to enjoy this one, although there are some recurring characters.
Most of the action in the book takes place in a large Marketplace where many people have stalls and sell all kinds of merchandise, from fresh produce and meat to baked goods, flowers, wreaths, preserves, clothing. furniture, books - you name it, it's there. I would love to visit that Marketplace! There are Amish communities in the area so there are quite a few Amish who run their businesses out of the Marketplace, along with many non-Amish.
Jeremiah, a young Amish man, was severely injured in an accident. He was traveling in a van with other Amish when a car struck it. He lived but is in a wheelchair, and is having to regain the use of his body - arms and hands as well as his legs. I thought Jeremiah was an admirable character. He has human struggles with his changed circumstances and occasionally has despair but he doesn't give up. As part of his rehabilitation, he goes to work at the pretzel stand run by Keturah and her sisters. One thing that made the book so good was that nothing about his disability was sugar-coated. Jeremiah has to struggle, for example, to learn to use the tongs at the pretzel stand.
Keturah and her three younger sisters are also Amish. They lost their parents in an accident, and the four are left to make their living in their market stall where they make pretzels. I admired Keturah so much - she was so young to have to be the head of her family. Her youngest sister was only 8 years old. I learned quite a lot about pretzel-making in this book and would love to try a freshly made one.
There is a very slow build romance, and I would say that the romance is not the focus of the book. I thought the focus was the challenges that Jeremiah, Keturah, and her sisters faced, and their struggle to continue to have faith. It's an excellent book and I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from publisher Kensington via NetGalley. These are my own opinions of the book.
Most of the action in the book takes place in a large Marketplace where many people have stalls and sell all kinds of merchandise, from fresh produce and meat to baked goods, flowers, wreaths, preserves, clothing. furniture, books - you name it, it's there. I would love to visit that Marketplace! There are Amish communities in the area so there are quite a few Amish who run their businesses out of the Marketplace, along with many non-Amish.
Jeremiah, a young Amish man, was severely injured in an accident. He was traveling in a van with other Amish when a car struck it. He lived but is in a wheelchair, and is having to regain the use of his body - arms and hands as well as his legs. I thought Jeremiah was an admirable character. He has human struggles with his changed circumstances and occasionally has despair but he doesn't give up. As part of his rehabilitation, he goes to work at the pretzel stand run by Keturah and her sisters. One thing that made the book so good was that nothing about his disability was sugar-coated. Jeremiah has to struggle, for example, to learn to use the tongs at the pretzel stand.
Keturah and her three younger sisters are also Amish. They lost their parents in an accident, and the four are left to make their living in their market stall where they make pretzels. I admired Keturah so much - she was so young to have to be the head of her family. Her youngest sister was only 8 years old. I learned quite a lot about pretzel-making in this book and would love to try a freshly made one.
There is a very slow build romance, and I would say that the romance is not the focus of the book. I thought the focus was the challenges that Jeremiah, Keturah, and her sisters faced, and their struggle to continue to have faith. It's an excellent book and I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from publisher Kensington via NetGalley. These are my own opinions of the book.
October 11, 2021
Jeremiah Zook has spent weeks in a rehab facility, his body broken, due to the accident that not only took his mobility, but also the life of his cherished mother, and several other Amish folks. In an effort to work through his own grief, and to work on regaining the dexterity in his hands, he begins writing letters of hope and condolence to other Amish families who have experienced a great loss just as he did. The rehab center gives him hope that he may regain both the use of his hands, and the use of his legs, but can one little letter put him on the path to mending his broken heart, too?
When Keturah Esch's parents are killed by a drunk driver, she suddenly becomes the head of their household, responsible for her three younger sisters, and the family pretzel stand. The only thing that has brought her any comfort at all was a letter from someone calling himself, A Friend Who Cares. The writer seems to have stepped into her pain, and knows exactly what to say to ease her heart. As they begin a regular correspondence, her burden is lightened, and her heart begins to open.
Jeremiah knows Keturah works at the pretzel stand in the local vendors market, and makes his first foray out of the rehab center to secretly meet his pen pal. The beautiful, overwhelmed Amish woman he finds makes his heart trip, but what can he offer her as an invalid? Offering to help in the stand comes naturally, but he is stunned to realize that the little he's able to do makes a big impression. How can he continue to work with her daily, and keep up their correspondence at the same time?
The twist near the end of this story - wow. I like that Keturah is willing to look past the things Jeremiah can't do, to the things he still can, and that she's willing to go against what her father would have wanted to help others reach their potential. I loved that Jeremiah is willing to help in any way he can, even though his ability is very limited at first.
Readers who enjoy Amish romance will fall for these two. I know I loved it!
When Keturah Esch's parents are killed by a drunk driver, she suddenly becomes the head of their household, responsible for her three younger sisters, and the family pretzel stand. The only thing that has brought her any comfort at all was a letter from someone calling himself, A Friend Who Cares. The writer seems to have stepped into her pain, and knows exactly what to say to ease her heart. As they begin a regular correspondence, her burden is lightened, and her heart begins to open.
Jeremiah knows Keturah works at the pretzel stand in the local vendors market, and makes his first foray out of the rehab center to secretly meet his pen pal. The beautiful, overwhelmed Amish woman he finds makes his heart trip, but what can he offer her as an invalid? Offering to help in the stand comes naturally, but he is stunned to realize that the little he's able to do makes a big impression. How can he continue to work with her daily, and keep up their correspondence at the same time?
The twist near the end of this story - wow. I like that Keturah is willing to look past the things Jeremiah can't do, to the things he still can, and that she's willing to go against what her father would have wanted to help others reach their potential. I loved that Jeremiah is willing to help in any way he can, even though his ability is very limited at first.
Readers who enjoy Amish romance will fall for these two. I know I loved it!
November 7, 2021
I have always enjoyed Rachel J. Goods novels and this one did not disappoint!! It is again a wonderful read and enjoyable story line. It is a take on overcoming a sudden disability and finding reasons to go on with life.
Jacob Zook was in a buggy accident which resulted in a spinal injury that affected his legs and arms. He now must rehab to where he is a contributing and functional member of the Amish community. It is a tough road, being in a wheelchair and a journey that doesn't happen overnight. He struggles with the everyday tasks that he did without thinking, before the accident. He is also tormented by a decision he made on the morning of the fated day and he must come to terms with the fact that he needs to reconcile that decision if he is to move on with life. But Jacob reads about a tragic accident that left 4 children alone, as it killed their parents and left the oldest, Keturah Esch, to take care of her younger siblings.
Jacob decides to write to Keturah and let her know that she is not alone and if she needs someone to talk to that understands the depth of loss, she can write to him. HOWEVER, Jacob wrote anonymously so Keturah has no idea who he is or where he is from. But his letters are such a joy to her and way to unburden herself without judgment. But how long can the letters go on before one or the other must reveal themselves?
Jacob goes to the Green Valley Farmers Market, one day, and finds himself before Ketura Esch but she has no idea who he is and he does not reveal himself. This story has twists and turns, ups and downs and eventually comes to a place that decisions must be made, but will they be made for the right reasons?
Sit in your comfy chair, surround yourself with the smells of the holidays, and a warm drink of choice....cuddle under a warm and cozy blanket and put yourself into the lives of Jacob and Keturah.....you won't be sorry!!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Zebra Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Jacob Zook was in a buggy accident which resulted in a spinal injury that affected his legs and arms. He now must rehab to where he is a contributing and functional member of the Amish community. It is a tough road, being in a wheelchair and a journey that doesn't happen overnight. He struggles with the everyday tasks that he did without thinking, before the accident. He is also tormented by a decision he made on the morning of the fated day and he must come to terms with the fact that he needs to reconcile that decision if he is to move on with life. But Jacob reads about a tragic accident that left 4 children alone, as it killed their parents and left the oldest, Keturah Esch, to take care of her younger siblings.
Jacob decides to write to Keturah and let her know that she is not alone and if she needs someone to talk to that understands the depth of loss, she can write to him. HOWEVER, Jacob wrote anonymously so Keturah has no idea who he is or where he is from. But his letters are such a joy to her and way to unburden herself without judgment. But how long can the letters go on before one or the other must reveal themselves?
Jacob goes to the Green Valley Farmers Market, one day, and finds himself before Ketura Esch but she has no idea who he is and he does not reveal himself. This story has twists and turns, ups and downs and eventually comes to a place that decisions must be made, but will they be made for the right reasons?
Sit in your comfy chair, surround yourself with the smells of the holidays, and a warm drink of choice....cuddle under a warm and cozy blanket and put yourself into the lives of Jacob and Keturah.....you won't be sorry!!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Zebra Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
November 12, 2021
Can love bring two lonely Amish people together by writing to each other. Shy Jacob was injured in a buggy accident while on a trip; grieving for her parents Keturah works tirelessly at her passed over Amish parents market stall. As the accident paralysed Jacob to help with his grief he began to write to Amish people located in the local Amish newspaper which lists those who had lost loved ones. Jacob and Keturah begin to write to each other aiding to help grieve while keeping their faith. They both battle their own guilt and faith while they are able to communicate to each other in letters of their grief and battles of guilt, certain secrets, emotions and troubles with faith. If and when they do meet is Jacob able to confess that he’s Keturah’s pen pal and what will happen to their working relationship. A great Christmas Amish romance which brings people together in the times of need to heal emotionally. A book for those who like to read about Christmas romance stories, Christian and Amish stories.
#AnUnexpectedAmishChristmas #NetGalley
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books and Zebra via NetGalley for my honest review of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own thoughts, feelings and viewpoints of the book.
Review run date 2021 for Netgalley, is posted on my WordPress blog, Facebook blog, Instagram, LinkedIn, Amazon.com.au, goodreads, along with the non-linked retail online stores that sell the book is at:
My WordPress blog link is http://bluefalkon95adorationofallgenr... I have 27 followers
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#AnUnexpectedAmishChristmas #NetGalley
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books and Zebra via NetGalley for my honest review of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own thoughts, feelings and viewpoints of the book.
Review run date 2021 for Netgalley, is posted on my WordPress blog, Facebook blog, Instagram, LinkedIn, Amazon.com.au, goodreads, along with the non-linked retail online stores that sell the book is at:
My WordPress blog link is http://bluefalkon95adorationofallgenr... I have 27 followers
My Facebook reader blog page link, is https://www.facebook.com/BlueFalkon95... I have 27 followers
My Amazon link is: Sorry I do not have any followers, I have a reviewer ranking #10,871
November 20, 2021
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is a touching and heartfelt story that brought tears and smiles as the tale unfolded. Jeremiah is struggling to accept his confinement to a wheelchair but desire to inspire others by writing to others suffering also. When he wrote to Keturah Esch, after seeing that she and her three younger sisters had lost both of their parents in an accident, he was surprised to receive a response.
This charming tale gave way to touching moments along with awkward and embarrassing times. I truly appreciate how Good brought this story full circle with the characters in an unusual way. It was a delight to catch up with other vendors at the Green Valley Farmers Market along with Mrs. Vandenberg
who was invested in the market and lives of the market vendors. The picturesque description of Christmas decorations at the market and the scents mentioned made me wishing there was a market like that to attend during this time of the year. There’s a gentle weaving of Biblical scriptures that inspired and encouraged the primary characters to continue on with life, let go and find a renewed peace and place of belonging after their world had been shattered with the death of their parents.
Being a fan of Rachel J. Good’s touching story this one is a favorite in her Surprise by Love series with the challenges the main characters faced and how their story developed showing growth in their lives. I look forward to more superb books from Good.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own opinion.
This charming tale gave way to touching moments along with awkward and embarrassing times. I truly appreciate how Good brought this story full circle with the characters in an unusual way. It was a delight to catch up with other vendors at the Green Valley Farmers Market along with Mrs. Vandenberg
who was invested in the market and lives of the market vendors. The picturesque description of Christmas decorations at the market and the scents mentioned made me wishing there was a market like that to attend during this time of the year. There’s a gentle weaving of Biblical scriptures that inspired and encouraged the primary characters to continue on with life, let go and find a renewed peace and place of belonging after their world had been shattered with the death of their parents.
Being a fan of Rachel J. Good’s touching story this one is a favorite in her Surprise by Love series with the challenges the main characters faced and how their story developed showing growth in their lives. I look forward to more superb books from Good.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own opinion.
June 23, 2022
Rachel J. Good can always be counted on for a heartwarming, meaningful Amish story one can fall into and get lost for a brief period of time. An Unexpected Amish Christmas tells the story of two people both having experienced life-altering tragedies, how they found each other, learned to love and forgive. The premise of the story is unique in that Ms. Good begins by telling their very different stories ultimately leading to the lead characters, Keturah and Jeremiah, discovering they share a common connection in their tragedy. Jeremiah helps Keturah and her siblings heal while Keturah and her sisters help Jeremiah discover a purpose for his life. The moment when their common connection was revealed was unexpected and I must admit to gasping out loud as I read - true signs of a good book!
The characters of Keturah, her sisters, Jeremiah, his friend Darryl from the rehab center and the ever-present good-hearted Mrs. Vandenberg are so well developed that you quickly become involved in their lives and experience their pain, discomfort, uncertainty with the situations life has placed in front of them - another sign of a good book!
Ms. Good has described the Amish market perfectly and in such detail that one can walk the path with Jeremiah as he delivers the pretzel dough to the meat stand, or walks to the chicken barbecue stand with Keturah for lunch.
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is the 3rd book in a series, of which I was unaware. Not having read any of the first two books, this book stands on its own, however after reading book 3 I certainly want to go back and read books 1 and 2!
The characters of Keturah, her sisters, Jeremiah, his friend Darryl from the rehab center and the ever-present good-hearted Mrs. Vandenberg are so well developed that you quickly become involved in their lives and experience their pain, discomfort, uncertainty with the situations life has placed in front of them - another sign of a good book!
Ms. Good has described the Amish market perfectly and in such detail that one can walk the path with Jeremiah as he delivers the pretzel dough to the meat stand, or walks to the chicken barbecue stand with Keturah for lunch.
An Unexpected Amish Christmas is the 3rd book in a series, of which I was unaware. Not having read any of the first two books, this book stands on its own, however after reading book 3 I certainly want to go back and read books 1 and 2!
October 8, 2021
I would like to thank NetGalley, Kensington Books and Rachel J Good for an E Arc of this book.
I really enjoyed being back in the Green Valley Farmers Market and meeting new characters. Keturah looks after her 3 younger sisters after the death of her parents. She also runs the family pretzel stall at the market with the help of her sisters. All are finding it hard to adjust to their new family dynamic. Keturah receives an unexpected letter from A Friend who cares and they start writing to each other. This is a way for her to get her feelings out and to work through all that she is dealing with.
Her pen pal is Jacob who is rehabilitating from injuries sustained in a car crash. He ends up coming to the market and as part of his rehab starts helping out at the stall. Changes are a foot in both their lives with the help of the former owner and the present owner of the market, as well as God.
A well written story, with good characters and pacing. I liked the sympathy and understanding in the way this book was written. I really enjoyed being back in the market. A good read for a winters day, with the Christmas tree lights sparkling, a nice hot cuppa and being snuggled up under a cosy blanket.
Would recommend this book. You don’t need to have read the other books in this series to read this one.
I really enjoyed being back in the Green Valley Farmers Market and meeting new characters. Keturah looks after her 3 younger sisters after the death of her parents. She also runs the family pretzel stall at the market with the help of her sisters. All are finding it hard to adjust to their new family dynamic. Keturah receives an unexpected letter from A Friend who cares and they start writing to each other. This is a way for her to get her feelings out and to work through all that she is dealing with.
Her pen pal is Jacob who is rehabilitating from injuries sustained in a car crash. He ends up coming to the market and as part of his rehab starts helping out at the stall. Changes are a foot in both their lives with the help of the former owner and the present owner of the market, as well as God.
A well written story, with good characters and pacing. I liked the sympathy and understanding in the way this book was written. I really enjoyed being back in the market. A good read for a winters day, with the Christmas tree lights sparkling, a nice hot cuppa and being snuggled up under a cosy blanket.
Would recommend this book. You don’t need to have read the other books in this series to read this one.
October 26, 2021
I felt the tragedy and heartache. Parents, gone! Orphans, now. Keturah, the eldest of four siblings, suddenly left responsibile for them and their pretzel business. Somehow, through the fog and haze of deep mourning, the sisters carry on. Keturah is comforted by an unexpected letter from "A Friend Who Cares." Enter wheelchair bound Jeremiah helping out at the pretzel stand despite the difficulties his disabilities present. Is there connection between him and the girls; especially with Keturah?
An easy read with hints of Amish culture intertwined, which I love learning about. I was surprized by the twists of fate - or, was it the Lord's working for their good? If only those sparks of romance which lurk and beg to be kindled, would ignite! Maybe it will happen during Christmas?
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
September 2021
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy given by the publisher.
An easy read with hints of Amish culture intertwined, which I love learning about. I was surprized by the twists of fate - or, was it the Lord's working for their good? If only those sparks of romance which lurk and beg to be kindled, would ignite! Maybe it will happen during Christmas?
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
September 2021
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy given by the publisher.
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