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Creektown Discoveries #3
The Apple Creek Announcement: Volume 3
Book 3 in the Creektown Discoveries series
An Artist Seeks Her Birth Mother
Welcome to Apple Creek, Ohio, where a piano teacher has a fascination with painting the rural Amish landscapes around her home.
Andrea Wagner has made it to her thirties feeling like she has had a charmed life and finally has fallen in love with Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian. But then she discovers she was adopted—and all she thought she knew about herself has crumbled. Andrea becomes so fixated on finding her birth mother that she pushes Brandon away.
A friend suggests Andrea write to the “Dear Caroline” column in the newspaper for romance advice, and she finds herself revealing her issues with being adopted in the letter. “Dear Caroline” receives the letter but struggles to find the right advice given her own conflicted past.
What will Andrea lose before she finds herself again?
Other books in the
The Walnut Creek Wish
The Sugarcreek Surprise
An Artist Seeks Her Birth Mother
Welcome to Apple Creek, Ohio, where a piano teacher has a fascination with painting the rural Amish landscapes around her home.
Andrea Wagner has made it to her thirties feeling like she has had a charmed life and finally has fallen in love with Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian. But then she discovers she was adopted—and all she thought she knew about herself has crumbled. Andrea becomes so fixated on finding her birth mother that she pushes Brandon away.
A friend suggests Andrea write to the “Dear Caroline” column in the newspaper for romance advice, and she finds herself revealing her issues with being adopted in the letter. “Dear Caroline” receives the letter but struggles to find the right advice given her own conflicted past.
What will Andrea lose before she finds herself again?
Other books in the
The Walnut Creek Wish
The Sugarcreek Surprise
312 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2022
159 people are currently reading
2828 people want to read
About the author
Wanda E. Brunstetter
215 books2,327 followersNew York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 31, 2022
This is a Clean Romance, and this is the third book in the Creektown Discoveries series. One of the main characters in this book drove me totally crazy. Andrea in this book acted like a total baby, and I just wanted to yell at her to grow up. Because, I really did not like one of the main characters of this book made me not like this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
August 4, 2022
This is the third book in the Creektown Discoveries series and while it can be read as a stand alone do yourself a favor and read the other two first to get the background of the story.
I just love the characters Lois and Orley who own an antique/junk shop. This Amish couple is very friendly and warm giving out advice if it's asked for. They are also a very religious couple.
Artist Andrea Wagner is satisfied with life, it's ordinary and she's okay with that. She's engaged to be married to her boyfriend Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian. At an event she goes to she learns she was adopted and her parents never told her. It causes so much shock in her life and throws her wedding plans in an uproar when she decides she must find her birth mother first before sh gets married. Brandon doesn't understand or want to delay the wedding. With her life in an uprooted mess will she be give Brandon the time and attention he needs or will her search take over her life with her not being able to concentrate on anything else?
Very interesting premise for an Amish book.
Pub Aug 1,22
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I just love the characters Lois and Orley who own an antique/junk shop. This Amish couple is very friendly and warm giving out advice if it's asked for. They are also a very religious couple.
Artist Andrea Wagner is satisfied with life, it's ordinary and she's okay with that. She's engaged to be married to her boyfriend Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian. At an event she goes to she learns she was adopted and her parents never told her. It causes so much shock in her life and throws her wedding plans in an uproar when she decides she must find her birth mother first before sh gets married. Brandon doesn't understand or want to delay the wedding. With her life in an uprooted mess will she be give Brandon the time and attention he needs or will her search take over her life with her not being able to concentrate on anything else?
Very interesting premise for an Amish book.
Pub Aug 1,22
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 18, 2022
Sadly, THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT is the last story in The Creektown Discoveries trilogy. Oh how I love a Wanda Brunstetter story! She had my emotions all over the place. Once I started reading THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Andrea after finding out she was adopted and pushing things aside with Brandon who is wanting to marry her! What an awesome story. All of Wanda’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again.
Once you start reading THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT it will be very hard to stop! Wanda sure knows how to put a new twist on Amish fiction! Trust is the main lesson in this wonderful story. Can we put our trust in God to right our troubles in our lives if it is his will? This story definitely makes you think about that question.
THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT is without a doubt one of the best Amish books I’ve read in 2022 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Wanda Brunstetter is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. I am now going to read all of her previous books that I have somehow missed as she is now an auto buy author for me! THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT made me very sad to have to say goodbye to this wonderful trilogy. Grab your copy today and get on the couch!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from just read Publicity Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Once you start reading THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT it will be very hard to stop! Wanda sure knows how to put a new twist on Amish fiction! Trust is the main lesson in this wonderful story. Can we put our trust in God to right our troubles in our lives if it is his will? This story definitely makes you think about that question.
THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT is without a doubt one of the best Amish books I’ve read in 2022 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Wanda Brunstetter is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. I am now going to read all of her previous books that I have somehow missed as she is now an auto buy author for me! THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT made me very sad to have to say goodbye to this wonderful trilogy. Grab your copy today and get on the couch!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from just read Publicity Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 24, 2022
If I could give this book six stars I most certainly would! This definitely is the best book I’ve read all year. I think it’s the best book that Wanda Brunstetter has ever written. This book had the most beautiful surprise ending that had me crying tears of joy . This story captured me from the beginning and my interest increased as I turned the pages. It was unpredictable entertaining, faith filled and easy to read. Just be sure to have a box of tissues on hand because it is a tearjerker and you will need them.
Andrea Wagner has lived a blessed life. An only child of loving parents. A piano teacher and gifted Artist. Then Andrea becomes engaged to Brandon Prentice a local veterinarian in Apple Creek. Quite unexpectedly her world falls apart when Andrea learns she was adopted as a baby. Her parents hadn’t told her about the adoption because there never seemed to be the right time to tell her. Now Andrea wrestles with an identity crises and becomes consumed with finding her birth parents. Her engagement ends when Andrea tells Brandon that she wants to postpone their upcoming wedding. Why couldn’t Brandon be more supportive of Andrea’s need to find her birth mother? Why did Andrea push Brandon further and further out of her life ? She might be searching for someone who doesn’t want to be found. Andrea feels driven to find her birth mother and if she has to search for her the rest of her life that is what Andrea will do.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Christian Fiction and Amish Fiction. This is book three of Creektown Discoveries. I feel the books should be read in the order they were written because of the role that Orley and Lois Troyer play in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
Andrea Wagner has lived a blessed life. An only child of loving parents. A piano teacher and gifted Artist. Then Andrea becomes engaged to Brandon Prentice a local veterinarian in Apple Creek. Quite unexpectedly her world falls apart when Andrea learns she was adopted as a baby. Her parents hadn’t told her about the adoption because there never seemed to be the right time to tell her. Now Andrea wrestles with an identity crises and becomes consumed with finding her birth parents. Her engagement ends when Andrea tells Brandon that she wants to postpone their upcoming wedding. Why couldn’t Brandon be more supportive of Andrea’s need to find her birth mother? Why did Andrea push Brandon further and further out of her life ? She might be searching for someone who doesn’t want to be found. Andrea feels driven to find her birth mother and if she has to search for her the rest of her life that is what Andrea will do.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Christian Fiction and Amish Fiction. This is book three of Creektown Discoveries. I feel the books should be read in the order they were written because of the role that Orley and Lois Troyer play in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
July 28, 2022
The Apple Creek Announcement by Wanda E. Brunstetter is a heartwarming story. It is the third book in the Creektown Discoveries series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I enjoyed the experience of reading the series in order. It allowed me to get to know Orley and Lois Troyer. I thought The Apple Creek Announcement was well-written with the story moving at a gentle pace. I thought the second half of the story moved along at a faster pace than the first. We get to know Andrea Wagner, Brandon Prentice, and their families. I admit that I had trouble with Andrea. She comes across as immature and whiny at times. I just love Lois and Orley. They are such caring people with abiding faith. They provide guidance to those who seek it in their shop. I would love to spend hours exploring their antique store. I like how the faith element is weaved into the story. It is well-done and in no way is it preachy. The importance of prayer and forgiveness are two good faith lessons. I did learn some interesting information as Andrea and Brandon tried to get to their animals to accept each other. Brandon’s dog was afraid of Andrea’s cat. I can tell that the author did her research into this subject. I loved the ending. Everything came together for a special finale. There are two recipes at the end as well as discussion questions. The Apple Creek Announcement is a touching Amish tale with an exultant engagement, an astonishing secret, an animal aenigma, wise advice, an unforeseen find, and a joyful finale.
August 2, 2022
I always enjoy a Brunstetter story. I am guaranteed a good, clean story of people who test their faith in so many different ways and still find their way back.
THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT finds Andrea Wagner enjoying her life and planning a wonderful future when she discovers she was adopted. This discovery causes her to question everything in her life, leaving her plans scattered as she researches her adoption. As the story resolves itself in a unique manner, Andrea will find her answers have no bearing on who she is now and her future. SIGH!!!!
THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT finds Andrea Wagner enjoying her life and planning a wonderful future when she discovers she was adopted. This discovery causes her to question everything in her life, leaving her plans scattered as she researches her adoption. As the story resolves itself in a unique manner, Andrea will find her answers have no bearing on who she is now and her future. SIGH!!!!
July 22, 2022
5 stars, When you feel incomplete
THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT
by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Andrea is a piano teacher and artist who feels drawn to painting Amish scenery. She doesn't know why, but she is drawn in that direction time and time again. She's in her thirties and had almost given up on getting married and having a family, then she met local veterinarian Brandon. They decide to marry, and then she finds out she was adopted.
Andrea comes across as a little immature, but I think that is to be expected when you are cosseted and protected by your loving parents. Her first feelings are of betrayal, why didn't her parents tell her that she was adopted? She feels drawn to identify her birth parents, putting her relationship with Brandon on hold and turning away from everyone as she begins her journey.
This is a stand-alone book, it means a little more to me because I have read the other two books in this series. They give you more of the background happenings and relationships, as you go into this novel.
Creektown Discoveries Series
1. The Walnut Creek Wish
2. The Sugarcreek Surprise
3. The Apple Creek Announcement
Highly recommend. #inspyfiction #favoritebooks #newrelease2022
I gratefully received a complimentary copy of #theapplecreekannouncement from #barbourfiction I was under no obligation to post a review. #inspirationalfiction #contemporary #barbourpublishing #ChristianFiction #morals #adoption #Amish #artist #wandaEbrunstetter
THE APPLE CREEK ANNOUNCEMENT
by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Andrea is a piano teacher and artist who feels drawn to painting Amish scenery. She doesn't know why, but she is drawn in that direction time and time again. She's in her thirties and had almost given up on getting married and having a family, then she met local veterinarian Brandon. They decide to marry, and then she finds out she was adopted.
Andrea comes across as a little immature, but I think that is to be expected when you are cosseted and protected by your loving parents. Her first feelings are of betrayal, why didn't her parents tell her that she was adopted? She feels drawn to identify her birth parents, putting her relationship with Brandon on hold and turning away from everyone as she begins her journey.
This is a stand-alone book, it means a little more to me because I have read the other two books in this series. They give you more of the background happenings and relationships, as you go into this novel.
Creektown Discoveries Series
1. The Walnut Creek Wish
2. The Sugarcreek Surprise
3. The Apple Creek Announcement
Highly recommend. #inspyfiction #favoritebooks #newrelease2022
I gratefully received a complimentary copy of #theapplecreekannouncement from #barbourfiction I was under no obligation to post a review. #inspirationalfiction #contemporary #barbourpublishing #ChristianFiction #morals #adoption #Amish #artist #wandaEbrunstetter
July 20, 2022
Book 3 of this series was interesting. I enjoyed the precedence of this book, that of looking for your biological family, which I have done professionally quite a few times. It can be a very time consuming process at times. As Andrea starts to search for her family, her relationship with Brandon becomes a bit shakey.
The Troyers again are in this book and give their wisdom to others who need some personal mentoring and that is what they love to do as they pray to give the best answers they can. And that included non-Amish people as well. Andrea and Brandon find themselves being mentored by this sweet couple.
I enjoy the author's books. The book has a happy ending, despite the trials and issues that the characters experience along the way. There is some growing and learning to accept topics in this book.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
The Troyers again are in this book and give their wisdom to others who need some personal mentoring and that is what they love to do as they pray to give the best answers they can. And that included non-Amish people as well. Andrea and Brandon find themselves being mentored by this sweet couple.
I enjoy the author's books. The book has a happy ending, despite the trials and issues that the characters experience along the way. There is some growing and learning to accept topics in this book.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
August 29, 2022
*I received this book for free in a Goodreads giveaway. The following is my honest opinion. *
I feel like I'm being generous with a three star review. The ending is the only thing that saved this from two stars. There was so much that bothered me. I'll discuss that first then move on to what I enjoyed.
Negatives:
Andrea was so pouty. I realize she had the shock of her life but she seemed emotionally immature beforehand. Her fiance was just like her.
The dialogue between every single character was so formal and it stunted the flow of reading. Nobody talks like that in real life. Each person over explained everything in great detail to each other.
There was too much drama between Andrea's cat and her fiance's dog and it detracted from the real story. When the animals got together and didn't get along, the humans were quick to wonder if they'd be able to get married because of their animals. Really!? I sure wouldn't think of giving up my fiance that quick because of some animal issues.
I wasn't convinced about the relationship between Andrea and her fiance. There was no depth of feeling or emotional passion between them. I wasn't convinced they were in love at all. Once again, the formal dialogue probably played a part.
Positives:
Orley and Lois, the Amish couple that gave advice, were cute.
Even though I saw the ending coming a mile away, it was still enjoyable and I appreciated a bit of a twist.
I feel like I'm being generous with a three star review. The ending is the only thing that saved this from two stars. There was so much that bothered me. I'll discuss that first then move on to what I enjoyed.
Negatives:
Andrea was so pouty. I realize she had the shock of her life but she seemed emotionally immature beforehand. Her fiance was just like her.
The dialogue between every single character was so formal and it stunted the flow of reading. Nobody talks like that in real life. Each person over explained everything in great detail to each other.
There was too much drama between Andrea's cat and her fiance's dog and it detracted from the real story. When the animals got together and didn't get along, the humans were quick to wonder if they'd be able to get married because of their animals. Really!? I sure wouldn't think of giving up my fiance that quick because of some animal issues.
I wasn't convinced about the relationship between Andrea and her fiance. There was no depth of feeling or emotional passion between them. I wasn't convinced they were in love at all. Once again, the formal dialogue probably played a part.
Positives:
Orley and Lois, the Amish couple that gave advice, were cute.
Even though I saw the ending coming a mile away, it was still enjoyable and I appreciated a bit of a twist.
July 24, 2022
In this third installment of the Creektown Discoveries series, we reunite with Amish antique store owners Orley and Lois Troyer and are introduced to piano teacher/painter Andrea Wagner, veterinarian Brandon Prentice, and their families. Orley and Lois have a gift for helping others by giving advice and praying for them. When Andrea becomes obsessed with finding answers to questions about her identity, her future with fiancé Bran don is threatened. A touching story unfolds as these four lives intersect. The multi-layered plot twists and turns with a couple of unexpected revelations. The characters are well-crafted and endearing. As always Ms. Brunstetter paints a thoughtful and realistic picture of Amish life. I appreciate the strong faith element that flows freely throughout the story as a natural part of the characters’ lives. I enjoyed this book, and highly recommend it especially for fans of Amish romance. Note: Even though this is the third book in a series, it works well as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2022
Brunstetter latest installment of Creek Town Discoveries series is filled with ups and downs. Andrea and Brandon lives were busy with their occupations but were happy. Their struggles were realistic as Andrea wanted answers to her adoption. This story is well penned with twists and turns, romance and hidden secrets. I enjoyed how the Troyer’s desire to assist others in life gave them purpose and deepens their faith. Fans of Amish fiction will not want to miss reading The Apple Creek Announcement. This is my favorite book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion.
July 31, 2022
In typical Wanda Brunstetter style we send off this series with a surprise ending that will leave you smiling. The character Andrea leaves you wanting to shake her but you have to get inside her head to see that finding out you are adopted as an adult leaves you feeling like you don’t know where you belong. She shows persistence and fortitude in finding answers and left me admiring her. I love the antique store in this series and wish I could visit and talk with Orley and Lois. I always enjoy the Faith theme and scriptures that are woven in to give hope. Forgiveness for secrets kept is hard but possible with God. An enjoyable read and heartwarming conclusion.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
August 3, 2022
I loved this book!! Great story!! Glad that everything worked out with everyone!! Loved this series!! Love this author’s books!!
July 17, 2022
The third book in the series. Orley and Lois love being able to help others and are always looking for ways to mentor others and help them. Sometimes helping others leads to helping yourself. Andrea and Brandon are eager to get married, but during their engagement, some problems seem to come up. Will they be able to work them out?
I really enjoyed reading this story and am sad to think that this series may be at an end.
I really enjoyed reading this story and am sad to think that this series may be at an end.
August 6, 2022
I have been a huge Wanda E Brunstetter fan for years and can never get tired of her stories. Her latest, The Apple Creek Announcement, is no different. This third installment from Creektown Discoveries series is by far my favorite of the series. I enjoyed reading Andrea’s story and had to keep reading to see what she learns about herself. I thought it was a wonderful read.
The Apple Creek Announcement will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean Amish Fiction, as well as, Romantic Suspense. As always, I will be looking forward to where else Wanda E Brunstetter will be taking her readers to next.
I received a copy of The Apple Creek Announcement from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
The Apple Creek Announcement will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean Amish Fiction, as well as, Romantic Suspense. As always, I will be looking forward to where else Wanda E Brunstetter will be taking her readers to next.
I received a copy of The Apple Creek Announcement from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
July 27, 2022
I was happy to visit Walnut Creek again to spend time with Lois and Orley. They are a middle-aged Amish couple who take delight in mentoring others, whether Amish or English. They own Memory Keepers, a vintage shop that is enjoyed by local people as well as tourists. While the main focus is on a younger couple, Brandon and Andrea, Orley and Lois are the backbone of the series, and each couple learns from the other.
Andrea is an artist who appreciates scenery from surrounding Amish neighbors, painting various outdoor aspects of their lives while guarding their privacy. Andrea also gives piano lessons to students of all ages. She has been dating Brandon, a veterinarian, for a couple years. He cares for both companion pets and livestock in and around Apple Creek. He finally popped the question one evening, and they began to plan their wedding. Except for choosing what they want rather than what their parents want, all goes smoothly until Andrea learns from one of her cousins that they were both adopted as babies. Vincent sees his adoptive parents as his real parents and does not understand why, after thirty-two years, Andrea would want to find her birth parents. Andrea does not understand why her adoptive parents kept the secret from her.
Andrea pursues finding who her birth mother is to the point that it borders on obsession. Everything except her work takes a back seat, including their wedding plans, Brandon, and the parents who she feels lied to her. Brandon appreciates her feelings but wants to spend some time with her. Andrea finally suggested they postpone their wedding, and Brandon decided they should stop seeing each other entirely. Whether Orley and Lois can help them at this point is only up to the Lord.
The four main characters are defined with excellence through realistic conversations and behaviors.
I used to put the Amish on a pedestal for their faith and lifestyle, forgetting that they are human, with thoughts and feelings like other Christians. While their lifestyle helps them focus more on the Lord and their families, they have challenges and faith struggles just like other believers.
Orley and Lois are excellent examples of this. Both desire to mentor others, yet Orley is concerned about being too old to do so any longer and Lois suffers regarding her relationship with her father. Lois’s main priority in mentoring is finding a way to tell others about Jesus and lead them to faith in Him. Orley is God-reliant enough to admit to Brandon, “Everything I say that is worth anything comes from what God lays on my heart.” I appreciate how the older couple enjoys simple pleasures, from putting jigsaw puzzles together to Orley taking his sled out in the snow.
Overall, I was very happy to read this novel. As she often does, the author offers gentle spiritual lessons, and I appreciated the scripture references and subjects discussed. There is an element of mystery regarding whether Andrea can find who and where her birth mother is, and the heartache of whether the young couple can get back together. There are surprises and a heartwarming resolution that I had not anticipated. I highly recommend this to older teens and women of all ages who enjoy Amish Christian fiction, engaging and likable characters, and working through challenges in all kinds of relationships.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Andrea is an artist who appreciates scenery from surrounding Amish neighbors, painting various outdoor aspects of their lives while guarding their privacy. Andrea also gives piano lessons to students of all ages. She has been dating Brandon, a veterinarian, for a couple years. He cares for both companion pets and livestock in and around Apple Creek. He finally popped the question one evening, and they began to plan their wedding. Except for choosing what they want rather than what their parents want, all goes smoothly until Andrea learns from one of her cousins that they were both adopted as babies. Vincent sees his adoptive parents as his real parents and does not understand why, after thirty-two years, Andrea would want to find her birth parents. Andrea does not understand why her adoptive parents kept the secret from her.
Andrea pursues finding who her birth mother is to the point that it borders on obsession. Everything except her work takes a back seat, including their wedding plans, Brandon, and the parents who she feels lied to her. Brandon appreciates her feelings but wants to spend some time with her. Andrea finally suggested they postpone their wedding, and Brandon decided they should stop seeing each other entirely. Whether Orley and Lois can help them at this point is only up to the Lord.
The four main characters are defined with excellence through realistic conversations and behaviors.
I used to put the Amish on a pedestal for their faith and lifestyle, forgetting that they are human, with thoughts and feelings like other Christians. While their lifestyle helps them focus more on the Lord and their families, they have challenges and faith struggles just like other believers.
Orley and Lois are excellent examples of this. Both desire to mentor others, yet Orley is concerned about being too old to do so any longer and Lois suffers regarding her relationship with her father. Lois’s main priority in mentoring is finding a way to tell others about Jesus and lead them to faith in Him. Orley is God-reliant enough to admit to Brandon, “Everything I say that is worth anything comes from what God lays on my heart.” I appreciate how the older couple enjoys simple pleasures, from putting jigsaw puzzles together to Orley taking his sled out in the snow.
Overall, I was very happy to read this novel. As she often does, the author offers gentle spiritual lessons, and I appreciated the scripture references and subjects discussed. There is an element of mystery regarding whether Andrea can find who and where her birth mother is, and the heartache of whether the young couple can get back together. There are surprises and a heartwarming resolution that I had not anticipated. I highly recommend this to older teens and women of all ages who enjoy Amish Christian fiction, engaging and likable characters, and working through challenges in all kinds of relationships.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
August 1, 2022
The Apple Creek Announcement by Wanda E. Brunstetter
(Creektown Discoveries Book 3)
An Amish Quilt Unlocks Secrets from the Past
An Artist Seeks Her Birth Mother
Welcome to Apple Creek, Ohio, where a piano teacher has a fascination with painting the rural Amish landscapes around her home.
Andrea Wagner has made it to her thirties feeling like she has had a charmed life and finally has fallen in love with Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian.
A friend suggests Andrea write to the “Dear Caroline” column in the newspaper for romance advice, and she finds herself revealing her issues with being adopted in the letter. “Dear Caroline” receives the letter but struggles to find the right advice given her own conflicted past.
What will Andrea lose before she finds herself again?
This is Andrea Wagner and Brandon Prentice's story.
This is Orley and Lois Troyer's story.
Apple Creek, Ohio
Click … click … click … Andrea cringed as her newest piano student’s fingers hit the keys while she played the piece of music she’d been given last week. For some piano teachers, the sound of nails clicking on the keys was exasperating. Andrea was one of those teachers.
She waited until the fourteen-year-old girl had finished playing before speaking to her. “Peggy, you hit all the right notes, and your timing was good, but your fingernails are much too long, and I’d like you to cut them before your next lesson.”
“But Miss Wagner, the teacher I had before my folks and I moved to Apple Creek never said anything about my nails.” Peggy held out her hands. “I like ‘em this way, and they don’t look as pretty when they’re short.”
“Having shorter nails will help you maintain a relaxed, curved hand position,” Andrea explained.
Brandon was a popular vet in their area, and his business was expanding, which meant longer hours for him. He worked at the clinic Monday through Friday, and sometimes on Saturdays when there was an emergency.
Brandon also doctored large animals such as horses and livestock outside of the clinic.
Andrea had heard from many sources that his animal patients and their owners liked Dr. Prentice, and it wasn’t hard to realize that he liked them too.
Brandon’s kindness and gentle ways were two of the things that had drawn her to him, as well as his six-foot stature and those piercing blue eyes. I have to agree with Colleen—my boyfriend is good-looking.
Walnut Creek, Ohio
“Would ya look at this old chair? I think it’s a beauty, don’t you?” From his kneeling position, Orley Troyer pointed to the vintage oak office chair he’d purchased at a family-run estate sale he and his wife had visited earlier in the day.
“I’d say so, and it appears to be in quite good condition. Not only that, but you got the chair for a fair price,” Lois responded. She held up an old washboard she had found at the sale. “But this is one of my favorite items. I don’t know if you noticed, but the lettering on the backside of the board looks pretty clear.”
Orley nodded. “Now we need to put these items on display in our store.”
“I’ll place the washboard with the kitchen items, and you can move the chair over with the furniture.”
I recommend reading.
The Apple Creek Announcement by Wanda E. Brunstetter is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Wanda E. Brunstetter.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
Other books in the series:
The Walnut Creek Wish
The Sugarcreek Surprise
(Creektown Discoveries Book 3)
An Amish Quilt Unlocks Secrets from the Past
An Artist Seeks Her Birth Mother
Welcome to Apple Creek, Ohio, where a piano teacher has a fascination with painting the rural Amish landscapes around her home.
Andrea Wagner has made it to her thirties feeling like she has had a charmed life and finally has fallen in love with Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian.
A friend suggests Andrea write to the “Dear Caroline” column in the newspaper for romance advice, and she finds herself revealing her issues with being adopted in the letter. “Dear Caroline” receives the letter but struggles to find the right advice given her own conflicted past.
What will Andrea lose before she finds herself again?
This is Andrea Wagner and Brandon Prentice's story.
This is Orley and Lois Troyer's story.
Apple Creek, Ohio
Click … click … click … Andrea cringed as her newest piano student’s fingers hit the keys while she played the piece of music she’d been given last week. For some piano teachers, the sound of nails clicking on the keys was exasperating. Andrea was one of those teachers.
She waited until the fourteen-year-old girl had finished playing before speaking to her. “Peggy, you hit all the right notes, and your timing was good, but your fingernails are much too long, and I’d like you to cut them before your next lesson.”
“But Miss Wagner, the teacher I had before my folks and I moved to Apple Creek never said anything about my nails.” Peggy held out her hands. “I like ‘em this way, and they don’t look as pretty when they’re short.”
“Having shorter nails will help you maintain a relaxed, curved hand position,” Andrea explained.
Brandon was a popular vet in their area, and his business was expanding, which meant longer hours for him. He worked at the clinic Monday through Friday, and sometimes on Saturdays when there was an emergency.
Brandon also doctored large animals such as horses and livestock outside of the clinic.
Andrea had heard from many sources that his animal patients and their owners liked Dr. Prentice, and it wasn’t hard to realize that he liked them too.
Brandon’s kindness and gentle ways were two of the things that had drawn her to him, as well as his six-foot stature and those piercing blue eyes. I have to agree with Colleen—my boyfriend is good-looking.
Walnut Creek, Ohio
“Would ya look at this old chair? I think it’s a beauty, don’t you?” From his kneeling position, Orley Troyer pointed to the vintage oak office chair he’d purchased at a family-run estate sale he and his wife had visited earlier in the day.
“I’d say so, and it appears to be in quite good condition. Not only that, but you got the chair for a fair price,” Lois responded. She held up an old washboard she had found at the sale. “But this is one of my favorite items. I don’t know if you noticed, but the lettering on the backside of the board looks pretty clear.”
Orley nodded. “Now we need to put these items on display in our store.”
“I’ll place the washboard with the kitchen items, and you can move the chair over with the furniture.”
I recommend reading.
The Apple Creek Announcement by Wanda E. Brunstetter is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Wanda E. Brunstetter.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
Other books in the series:
The Walnut Creek Wish
The Sugarcreek Surprise
July 18, 2022
Andrea Wagner is engaged to Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian. To the outside world, they have a perfect life. Andrea gives private piano lessons and loves to paint rural Amish landscapes. They have a wedding date set, Valentine's Day, and everything is going along as planned.
When Andrea attends a funeral with her parents, her cousin informs her that they have two things in common they both like music and are adopted. Andrea is in shock and does not believe him, so she questions her parents. She is distraught when they admit she was and that they just never seemed to find the "perfect time" to tell her. She wonders who she is and what and why her parents gave her up.
She becomes obsessed and cannot think of anything else and feels that her fiance Brandon just does not understand how this has to come before anything else. They quarrel, and finally, Brandon feels he cannot wait forever and what if she never finds them?
Andrea's best friend advises her to write to Dear Caroline and see what she has to say. When Brandon stops off at Memory Keepsakes, he starts talking to Orley and opens up about his problems.
Since Lois's dad passed away, she feels she still has issues that were not resolved and are rather sad. She had forgiven him for how he treated her when she was younger, and until her sister finds a note in a bible that her father had written, she now feels that they have resolved their problems, and she feels much better.
When she answers questions in Dear Caroline, she always prays that the advice she shares will help others to make a change for the better.
This is one of the most emotional books Wanda has written, especially in this series, and the readers will be in for some shocking revelations and surprises. I thought the book was one of her best.
When Andrea attends a funeral with her parents, her cousin informs her that they have two things in common they both like music and are adopted. Andrea is in shock and does not believe him, so she questions her parents. She is distraught when they admit she was and that they just never seemed to find the "perfect time" to tell her. She wonders who she is and what and why her parents gave her up.
She becomes obsessed and cannot think of anything else and feels that her fiance Brandon just does not understand how this has to come before anything else. They quarrel, and finally, Brandon feels he cannot wait forever and what if she never finds them?
Andrea's best friend advises her to write to Dear Caroline and see what she has to say. When Brandon stops off at Memory Keepsakes, he starts talking to Orley and opens up about his problems.
Since Lois's dad passed away, she feels she still has issues that were not resolved and are rather sad. She had forgiven him for how he treated her when she was younger, and until her sister finds a note in a bible that her father had written, she now feels that they have resolved their problems, and she feels much better.
When she answers questions in Dear Caroline, she always prays that the advice she shares will help others to make a change for the better.
This is one of the most emotional books Wanda has written, especially in this series, and the readers will be in for some shocking revelations and surprises. I thought the book was one of her best.
August 2, 2022
The Apple Creek Announcement is an absolutely wonderful story dealing with adoption written by Wanda Brunstetter. Her characters are very well created and add sensitivity to the story. The storyline never fails to keep the readers interest. The cover will definitely draw you in as well. The loved the descriptive way the location has been introduced. There is sadness, loss, love, and forgiveness throughout the story. When a secret is revealed unexpectedly it sets the whole story in a different light. The author has once again taken a real life aspect and woven a heartfelt story around it. This author has never disappointed me. This is the third story of the series, Creektown Discoveries.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review by the author and Barbour Publishing. I, however, 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.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review by the author and Barbour Publishing. I, however, 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.
August 19, 2022
Book three in the Creektown Discoveries series can be read as a standalone. However it will make more sense if you read books one and two; The Walnut Creek Wish and The Sugarcreek Surprise.
In The Apple Creek Announcement we meet old friends Orley and Lois. I’ve come to love them! Such good hearted people who care for others so much that they find unique ways of helping people. And we meet new friends Andrea and Brandon who are dealing with life issues and a relationship that becomes rocky. Well developed, the characters are true to life.
A sweet story with a surprise ending I absolutely loved, fans of author Wanda Brunstetter are sure to enjoy this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
In The Apple Creek Announcement we meet old friends Orley and Lois. I’ve come to love them! Such good hearted people who care for others so much that they find unique ways of helping people. And we meet new friends Andrea and Brandon who are dealing with life issues and a relationship that becomes rocky. Well developed, the characters are true to life.
A sweet story with a surprise ending I absolutely loved, fans of author Wanda Brunstetter are sure to enjoy this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
August 28, 2022
A very heartwarming tale of Andrea Wagner an artist and music teacher who
Becomes engaged to Brandon Prentice a local veterinarian. Then at a family
Affair Andrea finds out that she was adopted as a baby and her parents
Never told her. She is now obsessed with finding her birth mother and
Postpones the wedding until she finds her. An Amish couple play a big role
In this story. They are good Christian people who love helping people in need.
A well written story you will not want to put down. I recommend this book and
Series.
Becomes engaged to Brandon Prentice a local veterinarian. Then at a family
Affair Andrea finds out that she was adopted as a baby and her parents
Never told her. She is now obsessed with finding her birth mother and
Postpones the wedding until she finds her. An Amish couple play a big role
In this story. They are good Christian people who love helping people in need.
A well written story you will not want to put down. I recommend this book and
Series.
June 9, 2023
I have not read many Amish fiction books. Why, I’m not so sure. Seeing that this one is the third in the series let’s me know I will be reading the first two. I felt a few times like Andrea was thinking of just her feelings and not Brandon’s. But ultimately things worked out. I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and recommend it.
July 20, 2022
What a surprise ending to the third and last book to the Creektown Discoveries Series! I laughed and cried all through the book.
Andrea and Brandon are engaged to me married. When they tell their parents, their parents try to run the plans. Brandon is the vet in the area. Andrea teaches piano and paints pictures. She's very intrigued with Amish and has no idea why. She pains barns, buggies and children mostly. Her world changes when her cousin tells her some news. She is obsessed with finding the answers. Her relationship with Brandon goes downhill and he breaks up with her.
Does she find the answers she's looking for? Do her and Brandon get back together?
!
Andrea and Brandon are engaged to me married. When they tell their parents, their parents try to run the plans. Brandon is the vet in the area. Andrea teaches piano and paints pictures. She's very intrigued with Amish and has no idea why. She pains barns, buggies and children mostly. Her world changes when her cousin tells her some news. She is obsessed with finding the answers. Her relationship with Brandon goes downhill and he breaks up with her.
Does she find the answers she's looking for? Do her and Brandon get back together?
!
July 17, 2022
This is the 3rd book in the Creektown Discoveries Series.
In this delightful read we meet Andrea, who is a piano teacher and artist, and Brandon, a veterinarian.
Andrea inadvertently finds out that she was adopted at birth and her whole world turns upside-down. We find her being very obsessive in trying to find her birth parents, which affects her fiancé, adoptive parents, and friends.
We once again meet Lois and Orley, who own an antique shop, and as in the previous books, they give advice to Brandon and unknowingly advise to Andrea. They play a much bigger and unexpected part in this book.
You will not want to put this book down until you have finished reading it.
I received this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
In this delightful read we meet Andrea, who is a piano teacher and artist, and Brandon, a veterinarian.
Andrea inadvertently finds out that she was adopted at birth and her whole world turns upside-down. We find her being very obsessive in trying to find her birth parents, which affects her fiancé, adoptive parents, and friends.
We once again meet Lois and Orley, who own an antique shop, and as in the previous books, they give advice to Brandon and unknowingly advise to Andrea. They play a much bigger and unexpected part in this book.
You will not want to put this book down until you have finished reading it.
I received this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 27, 2022
Amish stories are always in my opinion the best reads ever! In some ways they remind me of several Hallmark movies that are on TV.
I've always thought that Wanda's books should be made into movies. Wouldn't this series be awesome?! I love the trailers that advertise the books.
Lois and Orley are two special people that I've enjoyed in getting to know. I most especially love the Dear Caroline columns because they remind me of the dear Abby columns in the Lexington Herald.
Some of them will make you snicker.
The animals were a hoot too.
Andrea's situation is one I can definitely relate to.
A sweet story all the way around.
5 stars for a job well done.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
I've always thought that Wanda's books should be made into movies. Wouldn't this series be awesome?! I love the trailers that advertise the books.
Lois and Orley are two special people that I've enjoyed in getting to know. I most especially love the Dear Caroline columns because they remind me of the dear Abby columns in the Lexington Herald.
Some of them will make you snicker.
The animals were a hoot too.
Andrea's situation is one I can definitely relate to.
A sweet story all the way around.
5 stars for a job well done.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
August 25, 2022
I'm not sure what to say about this one. I had trouble with some of the characters in this book. For one, when a couple decides to marry and there are animals involved, the couple cannot let them run their life and decide if they should truly get married or not. Even if one animal has a problem with another, don't continue to say that the marriage may not happen unless the problem is resolved. It's kind of weird.
The book was okay. It felt like I had to keep reading to see what the next crazy thing to pop up would be. I love Wanda's books but I think this entire series just wasn't for me.
Though this book could be read as a standalone, I would suggest reading the first two books in the series to get an idea of some of the characters and what is going on.
The book was okay. It felt like I had to keep reading to see what the next crazy thing to pop up would be. I love Wanda's books but I think this entire series just wasn't for me.
Though this book could be read as a standalone, I would suggest reading the first two books in the series to get an idea of some of the characters and what is going on.
August 9, 2024
This book was excellent and I give it a 5++ stars. I loved this beautiful story!
July 27, 2022
A very well written inspirational book. Great plot and character dynamics. I recommend this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.
July 4, 2022
Thank you Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read The Apple Creek Announcement by Wanda E. Brunstetter through NetGalley. Release day for this 5-star Book 3 in the Creektown Discoveries series, is August 1, 2022.
Andrea Wagner is a piano teacher who has a talent for painting Amish inspired paintings. Andrea is engaged to Veterinarian, Brandon Prentice. They are to be married on Valentine’s Day when Andrea becomes consumed with the announcement that she is adopted, a fact that has been hidden for over thirty years.
As we follow Andrea as she toils to find her birth parents she and Brandon must make hard decisions about their upcoming wedding. Though this quest, Andrea writes “Dear Caroline” as a means to get answers as to how to handle this situation. Thus, we are again able to visit Orley and Lois Troyer, our Antique dealers, for some of their pearls of wisdom.
The true struggle is between Andrea and Brandon as they try to navigate a sticky situation as they move toward the path God has for their future.
You will enjoy the way Wanda approaches some very important issues. Pre-order your copy today.
Andrea Wagner is a piano teacher who has a talent for painting Amish inspired paintings. Andrea is engaged to Veterinarian, Brandon Prentice. They are to be married on Valentine’s Day when Andrea becomes consumed with the announcement that she is adopted, a fact that has been hidden for over thirty years.
As we follow Andrea as she toils to find her birth parents she and Brandon must make hard decisions about their upcoming wedding. Though this quest, Andrea writes “Dear Caroline” as a means to get answers as to how to handle this situation. Thus, we are again able to visit Orley and Lois Troyer, our Antique dealers, for some of their pearls of wisdom.
The true struggle is between Andrea and Brandon as they try to navigate a sticky situation as they move toward the path God has for their future.
You will enjoy the way Wanda approaches some very important issues. Pre-order your copy today.
July 14, 2022
Wanda Brunstetter brings us back to the 3rd book in the Creektown Discoveries series. I enjoyed reading about Andrea and Brandon’s story as they struggle to keep their relationship together when a secret from long ago is revealed. I also find it delightful to revisit with Lois, who writes for an advice column and her husband Orley, with his young at heart shenanigans, which makes the book a fun read.
My words and opinions are my own and I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Wanda Brunstetter and Barbour Publishing for my honest review.
My words and opinions are my own and I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Wanda Brunstetter and Barbour Publishing for my honest review.
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