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Secrets of Bliss Valley #3
A Search for Redemption
“Brown is a gifted writer who makes unforgettable characters that invite the reader to join them on their journey.” —Publishers Weekly bestselling author Marie E. Bast
Bestselling author Jo Ann Brown returns to the Amish community of Bliss Valley, where finding a new beginning means facing the past…
After losing both her fiancé and the happy life she anticipated, Amish maedel Grace Coffman is still stitching the pieces of her life back together. But between working in a quilting shop with an unscrupulous Englisch boss and caring for her ill parents, her threads keep unraveling. At first, the arrival of a kind, attractive stranger feels like a coincidence. But the more Grace learns about Joel Beachy and his story, the more their meeting seems like providence…
Joel's return to Bliss Valley—and the Plain people—is his last chance to redeem a life filled with missteps. Yet in Grace, Joel finds something he never trust, courage and even the possibility of hope. When Grace suddenly finds herself the guardian of her nephews, Joel sees an opportunity to keep two wayward boys from repeating his mistakes. But Joel's dark past isn't quite finished with him. And now he must pray that his new life is strong enough to withstand the pending storm of trouble…and secrets.
SECRETS OF BLISS VALLEY
Secrets of Bliss Valley
Book 1: A Wish for Home
Book 2: A Promise of Forgiveness
Book 3: A Search for Redemption
Book 4: A Hope for Healing
Bestselling author Jo Ann Brown returns to the Amish community of Bliss Valley, where finding a new beginning means facing the past…
After losing both her fiancé and the happy life she anticipated, Amish maedel Grace Coffman is still stitching the pieces of her life back together. But between working in a quilting shop with an unscrupulous Englisch boss and caring for her ill parents, her threads keep unraveling. At first, the arrival of a kind, attractive stranger feels like a coincidence. But the more Grace learns about Joel Beachy and his story, the more their meeting seems like providence…
Joel's return to Bliss Valley—and the Plain people—is his last chance to redeem a life filled with missteps. Yet in Grace, Joel finds something he never trust, courage and even the possibility of hope. When Grace suddenly finds herself the guardian of her nephews, Joel sees an opportunity to keep two wayward boys from repeating his mistakes. But Joel's dark past isn't quite finished with him. And now he must pray that his new life is strong enough to withstand the pending storm of trouble…and secrets.
SECRETS OF BLISS VALLEY
Secrets of Bliss Valley
Book 1: A Wish for Home
Book 2: A Promise of Forgiveness
Book 3: A Search for Redemption
Book 4: A Hope for Healing
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2022
9 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 26, 2022
This is a Clean Amish Romance, and this is the third book in the Secrets of Bliss Valley series. I found the beginning of this book did not pull me into the story, and I found that I really did not want to pick it up. After, I made myself really get into this book I did start to enjoy the story. I did like most of the characters. I really did not like the fact Grace never stood up for herself because I really felt that people just ran over her most of the book. I did love seeing Joel's changes throughout this book, and I love that people were on his side by the end. I do think there are some really good messages in this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired Trade) or author (Jo Ann Brown) 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.
July 25, 2022
A Search for Redemption by Jo Ann Brown is the third novel in the Secrets of Bliss Valley. I thought A Search for Redemption was well-written with developed, realistic characters. I enjoyed getting to know Joel and Grace along with their families. I felt for Joel. He made his own choices, but a different upbringing would have made a world of difference. Joel returns to Bliss Valley after getting out of jail. He is not welcomed with open arms. Grace Coffman treats him kindly. We get to see how these two help each other. There are various storylines that all work together for one heartwarming book. Relationships are complicated and fraught with misunderstandings. Assumptions and lack of communication lead to trouble. It is important to have faith and trust. We can always count on God to get us through the rough times. Redemption, second chances, and forgiveness are themes in A Search for Redemption. While A Search for Redemption can be read as a standalone, I believe it would be beneficial to read the series in order. I like that we get to catch up with the characters from the first two stories in the series. I just loved how everything came together at the end of A Search for Redemption. I was hoping for this special conclusion. I liked that the characters had flaws (none of us are perfect). The author dealt with some tough subjects. We get to follow along to see how the characters deal with the issues. You can never run away from your secrets or your past as we see in this story. How we deal with them will determine what path we follow. There are good life lessons in this book. A Search for Redemption is a sweet, emotional story. I am eager for the next novel in the Secrets of Bliss Valley. A Search for Redemption is a touching Amish tale with a stingy supervisor, poorly parents, an imperfect past, sorrowful sons, a bewildering revelation, and a glorious God.
July 7, 2022
Joel Beachy has come back to Amish community after 6 years in jail. He is much like the prodigal son without the the loving father. The relationship with his father is complicated. He has no prospects and doesn't expect anything but when he ends up in the Amish Quilt Emporium, sales clerk Grace takes him by surprise.
Grace loves working at the quilt store and she has a complicated relationship with her boss English shop owner Tiffany. She is struck by Joel Beachy not knowing who he is but his willingness to help her opened the door for their friendship to begin. When she finds out Joel's past and who he is. Her good friend's brother, Grace begins the path for Joel's redemption and her own redemption.
This story had plot builders galore that shined a light on what redemption looks like. Grace had lost a loved one whom she was to marry and her parents where in poor health. Joel's family did not welcome him back with open arms but others in the community did. Relationships are complicated and filled with misunderstanding. Grace was the anchor for Joel and in being that anchor, Grace became more confident in the Lord. The lesson being how sacrifice, second chances, walking alongside others, can increase your faith. It is not easy and is usually with a cost but so worth it.
A special thank you to Harlequin and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
August 5, 2022
A Search for Redemption is a good addition to the Secrets of Bliss Valley series. Those who have read the first two books will enjoy seeing some characters from those stories, yet I think readers could jump into this book, as well. This story can stand on its own, yet there is an underlying storyline that does appear in each book of the series.
It was great to meet Joel Beachy in this story. He has been spoken of in the previous novels as a young man who left the Amish and then ended up in trouble with the law. It was interesting to read about what really happened to him and to see how he grew emotionally from the start of the book to the end.
Like any community, there were both kind and unkind people and this Amish community was no exception. I enjoyed the dynamics of Grace’s family. They had been through a lot, but I thought they all grew closer to each other throughout the book and were a strong unit by the end. I liked Joel and Grace and was happy with the way things worked out for them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
It was great to meet Joel Beachy in this story. He has been spoken of in the previous novels as a young man who left the Amish and then ended up in trouble with the law. It was interesting to read about what really happened to him and to see how he grew emotionally from the start of the book to the end.
Like any community, there were both kind and unkind people and this Amish community was no exception. I enjoyed the dynamics of Grace’s family. They had been through a lot, but I thought they all grew closer to each other throughout the book and were a strong unit by the end. I liked Joel and Grace and was happy with the way things worked out for them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 19, 2022
My blurb …
Grace Coffman’s life is not happy. Her fiancé died; her boss at the quilting shop is unethical. Grace is the sole supporter of her parents, both elderly and ill.
Joel Beachy is just out of prison and has returned to Bliss County; he didn’t know where else to go. In trouble as a child AND bigger trouble after leaving the Amish in his teens, he is now determined to avoid that deep water.
How will these two find each other? Does Joel’s parole officer really want him to mess up? And when two little boys need love and understanding, can they provide it?
My review …
Abundant and memorable characters along with a good plot and sub-plots make A Search for Redemption a book to put on your “to read” list.
Joel is introduced first and you’ll find him a sympathetic character. I loved how Grace first met Joel. Each key character is given the “time” to be known to the reader. Some may be familiar to those who have read the previous two books. However, A Search for Redemption can stand alone.
The plot(s) …
The plot with Joel and Grace evolves and deals with Joel’s innocence, his Daed continued hatred toward him, his inability to find a job, Grace’s mean and corrupt boss, the death of a sibling, and … I don’t want to say more. The plots and subplots unfold so nicely.
The pacing …
Sometimes in a book with a lot of characters, the pacing is a bit slow so that each character gets introduced. So yes, the pacing in book three is a bit slow. But was it too slow? No, because the book has a multi-dimensional main plot as well as rich sub-plots. Pacing always feels slow when characters are flat which isn’t the case in this book.
The special moments …
Two little boys have had to deal with death up close and personal. But the littlest tells us what entering heaven is like. Such a beautiful, sweet element. I think this will be what I remember from this book long after the plot has slipped my memory.
The weaknesses …
Grace is Amish and a firm believer in God. She works for a woman described as unscrupulous for years and never takes her to task for cheating, no — call it was it is — stealing from her craft quilters. Granted Grace’s self-esteem is not the best. The excuse is she needs the job to support her parents. She does but I found it too weak. She lets people walk all over her in so many ways. In others, she is strong. I just can’t buy her saying anything for so many years.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of A Search for Redemption via NetGalley from the publisher, HARLEQUIN – Romance (U.S. & Canada), Love Inspired Trade. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Rating: 4.5 stars rounded to five on sites using whole numbers.
#ASearchforRedemption #NetGalley #JoAnnBrown
Series Secrets of Bliss Valley, #3
Genre Amish
Pub. Date 23 Aug 2022
Pages 361
Publisher HARLEQUIN – Romance (U.S. & Canada), Love Inspired Trade
Cover Really perfect for this book.
Rating 4.5 stars
Grace Coffman’s life is not happy. Her fiancé died; her boss at the quilting shop is unethical. Grace is the sole supporter of her parents, both elderly and ill.
Joel Beachy is just out of prison and has returned to Bliss County; he didn’t know where else to go. In trouble as a child AND bigger trouble after leaving the Amish in his teens, he is now determined to avoid that deep water.
How will these two find each other? Does Joel’s parole officer really want him to mess up? And when two little boys need love and understanding, can they provide it?
My review …
Abundant and memorable characters along with a good plot and sub-plots make A Search for Redemption a book to put on your “to read” list.
Joel is introduced first and you’ll find him a sympathetic character. I loved how Grace first met Joel. Each key character is given the “time” to be known to the reader. Some may be familiar to those who have read the previous two books. However, A Search for Redemption can stand alone.
The plot(s) …
The plot with Joel and Grace evolves and deals with Joel’s innocence, his Daed continued hatred toward him, his inability to find a job, Grace’s mean and corrupt boss, the death of a sibling, and … I don’t want to say more. The plots and subplots unfold so nicely.
The pacing …
Sometimes in a book with a lot of characters, the pacing is a bit slow so that each character gets introduced. So yes, the pacing in book three is a bit slow. But was it too slow? No, because the book has a multi-dimensional main plot as well as rich sub-plots. Pacing always feels slow when characters are flat which isn’t the case in this book.
The special moments …
Two little boys have had to deal with death up close and personal. But the littlest tells us what entering heaven is like. Such a beautiful, sweet element. I think this will be what I remember from this book long after the plot has slipped my memory.
The weaknesses …
Grace is Amish and a firm believer in God. She works for a woman described as unscrupulous for years and never takes her to task for cheating, no — call it was it is — stealing from her craft quilters. Granted Grace’s self-esteem is not the best. The excuse is she needs the job to support her parents. She does but I found it too weak. She lets people walk all over her in so many ways. In others, she is strong. I just can’t buy her saying anything for so many years.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of A Search for Redemption via NetGalley from the publisher, HARLEQUIN – Romance (U.S. & Canada), Love Inspired Trade. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Rating: 4.5 stars rounded to five on sites using whole numbers.
#ASearchforRedemption #NetGalley #JoAnnBrown
Series Secrets of Bliss Valley, #3
Genre Amish
Pub. Date 23 Aug 2022
Pages 361
Publisher HARLEQUIN – Romance (U.S. & Canada), Love Inspired Trade
Cover Really perfect for this book.
Rating 4.5 stars
August 3, 2022
Amish Fiction is my favorite Genre of all time to read. A Search for Redemption by Jo Ann Brown is Book 3 in the Secrets of Bliss Valley series. I have had the honor of reading the first 2 books in this series and was anxiously awaiting the release of Book 3.
Grace Coffman is still mourning the loss of her fiancé and dreams of what could have been for them. She does enjoy her job at the local Quilt Shop, but her boss is not exactly a nice person to work with. Grace is also the caregiver for her parents, as they are older in life. Joel Beachy returns to Bliss Valley after spending time in Jail. He is not cordially welcomed back into town, but Grace feels that she would like to get to know him. Grace learns of Joel's story and she is now thinking that his coming back to Bliss Valley was a "God Send" and meant to be. Joel sees how much Grace loves her family, especially when she becomes a caregiver to her 2 nephews. Joel sees this as an opportunity to nurture the boys from a male perspective in hopes they don't make life mistakes as he did. Joel feels that his past might creep up and destroy what the future could hold for him. Will Joel be able to move forward without the past dictating his future happiness? Will there be a Romance between Joel and Grace?
WOW, I have to say that this book was probably my favorite in the series! I was reeled into this storyline from the very first few pages. The author does a great job at connecting the Characters to each other and to the story. Grace seems to be a forgiving person who wants to move forward in life. The kindness she shows to Joel and being a caregiver to her parents and nephews is remarkable. Joel is a person who feels he has a lot to prove after his troubled past. The people of Bliss Valley know his past and are not too quick to welcome him home. The friendship formed between Grace and Joel is beautiful. This book is one of Forgiveness, facing the past, and moving forward, one of redemption. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Amish Fiction. FANTASTIC BOOK!!
Grace Coffman is still mourning the loss of her fiancé and dreams of what could have been for them. She does enjoy her job at the local Quilt Shop, but her boss is not exactly a nice person to work with. Grace is also the caregiver for her parents, as they are older in life. Joel Beachy returns to Bliss Valley after spending time in Jail. He is not cordially welcomed back into town, but Grace feels that she would like to get to know him. Grace learns of Joel's story and she is now thinking that his coming back to Bliss Valley was a "God Send" and meant to be. Joel sees how much Grace loves her family, especially when she becomes a caregiver to her 2 nephews. Joel sees this as an opportunity to nurture the boys from a male perspective in hopes they don't make life mistakes as he did. Joel feels that his past might creep up and destroy what the future could hold for him. Will Joel be able to move forward without the past dictating his future happiness? Will there be a Romance between Joel and Grace?
WOW, I have to say that this book was probably my favorite in the series! I was reeled into this storyline from the very first few pages. The author does a great job at connecting the Characters to each other and to the story. Grace seems to be a forgiving person who wants to move forward in life. The kindness she shows to Joel and being a caregiver to her parents and nephews is remarkable. Joel is a person who feels he has a lot to prove after his troubled past. The people of Bliss Valley know his past and are not too quick to welcome him home. The friendship formed between Grace and Joel is beautiful. This book is one of Forgiveness, facing the past, and moving forward, one of redemption. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Amish Fiction. FANTASTIC BOOK!!
August 5, 2022
First let me say that although this is a return to Bliss Valley, it reads just fine as a standalone. I have not read the first two books in the series and had no trouble with this one. But I’m thinking I need to go back and read them to learn more about Bliss Valley, and to see if they’re as good as this one!
Author Jo Ann Brown writes a book that will keep you turning the pages, just to see what happens next. While this story has happy moments, it’s not a light hearted, fun story. There has been pain for both Grace and Joel, as well as Grace’s nephews. Yet Brown’s story is truly of redemption; the kind that God alone can give when we allow Him to work. With that comes hope and joy, which is written throughout this story keeping it from being overly heavy.
If you enjoy Amish fiction with some incredible surprises and life lessons, then I highly recommend A Search for Redemption.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Author Jo Ann Brown writes a book that will keep you turning the pages, just to see what happens next. While this story has happy moments, it’s not a light hearted, fun story. There has been pain for both Grace and Joel, as well as Grace’s nephews. Yet Brown’s story is truly of redemption; the kind that God alone can give when we allow Him to work. With that comes hope and joy, which is written throughout this story keeping it from being overly heavy.
If you enjoy Amish fiction with some incredible surprises and life lessons, then I highly recommend A Search for Redemption.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
August 5, 2022
This is the third book in this series, and yes, it can be read alone. The author does a wonderful job of bringing everything up to date.
This is Grace and Joel's story, and it is very heartwarming, but so many obstacles are thrown in their path. Yes, there is a bit of sweet romance, but there is also some family drama, and a lot of needed forgiveness.
You can't get to comfortable, because there is always something happening around the next corner. Some sad, and others very heart warming. There is a strong theme of forgiveness, and some of it is so hard, especially when the secrets really start to fall, and there are a lot of surprises.
I have read all three books in this series and they are all good, you won't be disappointed with any of them, and I love how they all fit together, and there is one more to come!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.
This is Grace and Joel's story, and it is very heartwarming, but so many obstacles are thrown in their path. Yes, there is a bit of sweet romance, but there is also some family drama, and a lot of needed forgiveness.
You can't get to comfortable, because there is always something happening around the next corner. Some sad, and others very heart warming. There is a strong theme of forgiveness, and some of it is so hard, especially when the secrets really start to fall, and there are a lot of surprises.
I have read all three books in this series and they are all good, you won't be disappointed with any of them, and I love how they all fit together, and there is one more to come!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.
May 24, 2022
Another book by this author that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Redemption, forgiveness and love is the theme of this story.
Wonderful plot and characters some of whom I could definitely relate to.
Grace is the main one that I could relate to the most. She's a kind non judgemental person and I loved her immensely.
I felt like she'd be a very good friend to me in real life.
Brown is a good author. I'm loving her stories a lot! I'm never disappointed.
I like that she makes the tough subjects come to life and we readers can feel their emotional rollercoasters so to speak.
I highly recommend this book. Such a sweet and wonderful book. While I realize that this is fictional I like it that the characters do have their flaws and I like reading about their journey through life.
5 stars as always for this author. I'll be looking for more.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Redemption, forgiveness and love is the theme of this story.
Wonderful plot and characters some of whom I could definitely relate to.
Grace is the main one that I could relate to the most. She's a kind non judgemental person and I loved her immensely.
I felt like she'd be a very good friend to me in real life.
Brown is a good author. I'm loving her stories a lot! I'm never disappointed.
I like that she makes the tough subjects come to life and we readers can feel their emotional rollercoasters so to speak.
I highly recommend this book. Such a sweet and wonderful book. While I realize that this is fictional I like it that the characters do have their flaws and I like reading about their journey through life.
5 stars as always for this author. I'll be looking for more.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
August 3, 2022
I seriously love this series so, so much and A Search for Redemption helped that love grow deeper and wider!
This novel focuses on Joel and Grace, two people that start out this story about as opposite as you can imagine. Joel has just gotten out of a six year prison sentence, and Grace is a mild-mannered Plain woman that is trying to do all she can to help her ailing parents, while also trying to hold down a job at a local quilt shop that is run by a woman that, crazy enough, reminds me of a nightmare boss that I had once upon a time. The parallels were so uncanny that I think I had a little PTSD while reading some of those scenes and that’s not the only place I felt a personal connection to this story.
Joel grappled with his past sins throughout the novel, and this is something I have first hand knowledge of, and can relate on so many levels, as I’m sure many of us can. Because I could sympathize, it made it hard for me to read his plight. I wanted to scream “forgive yourself!” and “accept God’s grace!” just like I do when I think about my own past. Getting trapped in your head like this, and not letting go, is utterly crippling, and the author does a wonderful job of showing this portrait of grace and forgiveness, not only accepting forgiveness from others but being able to forgive yourself as well.
I absolutely adored Joel and Grace together! Not only do they have a simmering chemistry that builds throughout the story, but each of them being able to be themselves with each other brings about personal growth and change in both of them for the better. Their relationship is able to elevate both of their lives in ways they’d only dreamt of and it was truly a beauty to behold this transformation.
Reading all the Amish fiction I’ve read in my lifetime I haven’t read much about the Asians that settled with the Mennonites, and really appreciated getting to learn more about the Hmong. It was just one more gem to make this read absolutely stellar. The majority of the novel was pretty predictable, but there were a few moments at the end that threw in quite the curveball. I had guessed part of it early on, but man when truths are revealed it changes everything!
Jo Ann Brown is such an immensely talented author that truly paints masterpieces with her words. Though there’s not a lot of drama, and heavily character driven, this was a novel that I could not put down, and hope that this will not be the end of this wonderful series.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
This novel focuses on Joel and Grace, two people that start out this story about as opposite as you can imagine. Joel has just gotten out of a six year prison sentence, and Grace is a mild-mannered Plain woman that is trying to do all she can to help her ailing parents, while also trying to hold down a job at a local quilt shop that is run by a woman that, crazy enough, reminds me of a nightmare boss that I had once upon a time. The parallels were so uncanny that I think I had a little PTSD while reading some of those scenes and that’s not the only place I felt a personal connection to this story.
Joel grappled with his past sins throughout the novel, and this is something I have first hand knowledge of, and can relate on so many levels, as I’m sure many of us can. Because I could sympathize, it made it hard for me to read his plight. I wanted to scream “forgive yourself!” and “accept God’s grace!” just like I do when I think about my own past. Getting trapped in your head like this, and not letting go, is utterly crippling, and the author does a wonderful job of showing this portrait of grace and forgiveness, not only accepting forgiveness from others but being able to forgive yourself as well.
I absolutely adored Joel and Grace together! Not only do they have a simmering chemistry that builds throughout the story, but each of them being able to be themselves with each other brings about personal growth and change in both of them for the better. Their relationship is able to elevate both of their lives in ways they’d only dreamt of and it was truly a beauty to behold this transformation.
Reading all the Amish fiction I’ve read in my lifetime I haven’t read much about the Asians that settled with the Mennonites, and really appreciated getting to learn more about the Hmong. It was just one more gem to make this read absolutely stellar. The majority of the novel was pretty predictable, but there were a few moments at the end that threw in quite the curveball. I had guessed part of it early on, but man when truths are revealed it changes everything!
Jo Ann Brown is such an immensely talented author that truly paints masterpieces with her words. Though there’s not a lot of drama, and heavily character driven, this was a novel that I could not put down, and hope that this will not be the end of this wonderful series.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
August 3, 2022
A Search for Redemption is an inspiring and inspirational Amish story with the main theme of forgiveness in its deepest form. Grace, a young woman who takes care of her parents while working at a quilt shop, suddenly finds her life changing in a most unexpected way. The loss of her betrothed, still a hurtful memory, haunts her days. Joel, an Englisher now, but with a past full of heartache and a time spent in prison, decides to return to his hometown. His life will never be the same.
The characters are well-developed and through the pages, I understood their heartache, but also the determination and strength they mustered to forgiveness. There are a lot of emotional parts to the story where I needed to reach for the tissues, but also joyful times where my heart soared with hope knowing God's will was leading them to where they needed to be.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and choose to review it. All opinions are my own.
The characters are well-developed and through the pages, I understood their heartache, but also the determination and strength they mustered to forgiveness. There are a lot of emotional parts to the story where I needed to reach for the tissues, but also joyful times where my heart soared with hope knowing God's will was leading them to where they needed to be.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and choose to review it. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2022
A Search for Redemption by Jo Ann Brown, book three in the Secrets of Bliss Valley series, is an emotional, tug at your heart strings, sweet Amish romance. In this sweet, heartwarming story which focuses on redemption, forgiveness and love as we discover what happened to Joel Beachy after leaving his Amish community. Returning to his Amish community after 6 years in jail, Joel is like the prodigal son, only without the loving father, as he has a very complicated relationship with his father. He has no prospects and doesn't expect anything but when he ends up in the Amish Quilt Emporium, sales clerk Grace takes him by surprise.
Grace Coffman is still mourning the loss of her fiancé and dreams of what could have been for them. She loves working at the quilt store but has a complicated relationship with her boss, English shop owner Tiffany. Grace is also the caregiver for her elderly parents. Although Joel is not cordially welcomed back into town, his willingness to help her opened the door for a friendship to begin. Grace learns of Joel's story and she is now thinking that his coming back to Bliss Valley was meant to be. Joel sees how much Grace loves her family, especially when she becomes a caregiver to her two orphaned nephews. Joel sees this as an opportunity to nurture the boys from a male perspective in hopes they don't make life mistakes as he did. Joel feels that his past might return, destroying whatever the future could hold for him. However, there are a few surprises for Joel, giving him a second chance, acceptance back into this Amish community and the possibility of a future with Grace.
Ms. Brown wrote a wonderfully sweet, uplifting and moving story about sacrifice, second chances, walking alongside others, and finding forgiveness. The story is a touching one, at times gut-wrenching, and brings forth lessons of forgiveness and redemption. It was interesting learning about the Asians, especially the Hmong, who settled among the Mennonites. I highly recommend A Search for Redemption to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Grace Coffman is still mourning the loss of her fiancé and dreams of what could have been for them. She loves working at the quilt store but has a complicated relationship with her boss, English shop owner Tiffany. Grace is also the caregiver for her elderly parents. Although Joel is not cordially welcomed back into town, his willingness to help her opened the door for a friendship to begin. Grace learns of Joel's story and she is now thinking that his coming back to Bliss Valley was meant to be. Joel sees how much Grace loves her family, especially when she becomes a caregiver to her two orphaned nephews. Joel sees this as an opportunity to nurture the boys from a male perspective in hopes they don't make life mistakes as he did. Joel feels that his past might return, destroying whatever the future could hold for him. However, there are a few surprises for Joel, giving him a second chance, acceptance back into this Amish community and the possibility of a future with Grace.
Ms. Brown wrote a wonderfully sweet, uplifting and moving story about sacrifice, second chances, walking alongside others, and finding forgiveness. The story is a touching one, at times gut-wrenching, and brings forth lessons of forgiveness and redemption. It was interesting learning about the Asians, especially the Hmong, who settled among the Mennonites. I highly recommend A Search for Redemption to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 2, 2022
A Search for Redemption is book three in the Secrets of Bliss Valley Series. The series is written by Jo Ann Brown. I have read all the books in the series, but they can also be read as stand alone books. This book is a Love Inspired Trade Book. I love that they have expanded the stories and you really feel that you get to know the characters on a deeper level.
This story brings us back to Bliss Valley. Grace is working in a tourist location. Her boss, Tiffany is not great to work for. She takes a lot of her frustration out on Grace. Grace feels like she is put in the middle when it comes to the quilters getting paid. Grace was born late in her parents lives. She is not married and has been the sole provider for her parents for a long time.
Joel Beachy is back in Bliss Valley after being released from jail. He hurt a lot of people in his youth and he is not sure that he will be welcomed back. He hopes to find a job at the construction site near Bliss Valley. I felt bad for Joel. He is a broken man that feels like he does not belong anywhere because of his pasts.
I loved the story of redemption. Joel finds friends where he never thought he would. The author has woven so many issues that one may face into this book. This would include: Running from our pasts, family issues, work issues and so much more. I really enjoyed this story. This is my favorite book in teh series.
Thank you to the author, publisher, JustRead publicity tours and Netgalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
This story brings us back to Bliss Valley. Grace is working in a tourist location. Her boss, Tiffany is not great to work for. She takes a lot of her frustration out on Grace. Grace feels like she is put in the middle when it comes to the quilters getting paid. Grace was born late in her parents lives. She is not married and has been the sole provider for her parents for a long time.
Joel Beachy is back in Bliss Valley after being released from jail. He hurt a lot of people in his youth and he is not sure that he will be welcomed back. He hopes to find a job at the construction site near Bliss Valley. I felt bad for Joel. He is a broken man that feels like he does not belong anywhere because of his pasts.
I loved the story of redemption. Joel finds friends where he never thought he would. The author has woven so many issues that one may face into this book. This would include: Running from our pasts, family issues, work issues and so much more. I really enjoyed this story. This is my favorite book in teh series.
Thank you to the author, publisher, JustRead publicity tours and Netgalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
May 9, 2022
A Search for Redemption is Book Three in author Jo Ann Brown's Secrets of Bliss Valley series, Even though I did not read first two books in this series (yet), I was was able to follow the story just fine. I am eager to read the other two books now, because I loved this one. This is a beautiful Christian Amish Romance with touch of romance.
This is the story of Amish fence jumper Joel Beachy, who returns to his Amish community of Bliss Valley as a convicted felon.. Joel is searching for a way to make better life for himself. His previous life had gotten him falsely accused and sent to prison. He has lost hope, and then he meets Grace Coffman.
This lovely novel has so many intertwined stories woven into it. The author has skillfully crafted a poignant tale of redemption, family issues, friendships, forgiveness, grace, and second beginnings sewn together with a spiritual thread. At times the story is gritty. Situations are heart-wrenching and heart-warming. The characters are down-to-earth and believable. The author whisked me away to Amish Country with her vivid descriptions.
This book stole my attention immediately and had me turning pages quickly until the end. I highly recommend this Amish novel. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided from NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
This is the story of Amish fence jumper Joel Beachy, who returns to his Amish community of Bliss Valley as a convicted felon.. Joel is searching for a way to make better life for himself. His previous life had gotten him falsely accused and sent to prison. He has lost hope, and then he meets Grace Coffman.
This lovely novel has so many intertwined stories woven into it. The author has skillfully crafted a poignant tale of redemption, family issues, friendships, forgiveness, grace, and second beginnings sewn together with a spiritual thread. At times the story is gritty. Situations are heart-wrenching and heart-warming. The characters are down-to-earth and believable. The author whisked me away to Amish Country with her vivid descriptions.
This book stole my attention immediately and had me turning pages quickly until the end. I highly recommend this Amish novel. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided from NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
July 10, 2022
A Search For Redemption by Jo Ann Brown
This is Book 3 in the Secrets of Bliss Valley Series and it was my favorite, who doesn’t like a happy ending and in this book everything comes together for the characters. It shows that it’s possible to come home and live your perfect life after walking the wrong path and making many bad decisions.
Joel Beachy has to make peace with not only his past but with his community particularly his close friends and family, but how can one ask for forgiveness when so much of his past defined him and the decisions he made leaving behind a man confused, angry and feeling that he doesn’t deserve that forgivness.
Grace Coffman wants nothing more than to live her perfect life God has planned for her but how can she do that when at each turn another obstacle pops up. Can Joel and Grace have that life or will their past continue to cloud their future? You will see that although Redemption may not be easy it’s possible and once you turn to God all will fall into place.
It also shows that you can never run far enough that secrets don’t catch up with you and when they do it’s how you choose to deal with them that may very well make the deference in your lives path.
I really enjoyed this series and would recommend it.
This is Book 3 in the Secrets of Bliss Valley Series and it was my favorite, who doesn’t like a happy ending and in this book everything comes together for the characters. It shows that it’s possible to come home and live your perfect life after walking the wrong path and making many bad decisions.
Joel Beachy has to make peace with not only his past but with his community particularly his close friends and family, but how can one ask for forgiveness when so much of his past defined him and the decisions he made leaving behind a man confused, angry and feeling that he doesn’t deserve that forgivness.
Grace Coffman wants nothing more than to live her perfect life God has planned for her but how can she do that when at each turn another obstacle pops up. Can Joel and Grace have that life or will their past continue to cloud their future? You will see that although Redemption may not be easy it’s possible and once you turn to God all will fall into place.
It also shows that you can never run far enough that secrets don’t catch up with you and when they do it’s how you choose to deal with them that may very well make the deference in your lives path.
I really enjoyed this series and would recommend it.
April 27, 2023
What a wonderful book! JoAnn has such a wonderful creative mind!
A story of second chances with many turns that you don’t know are coming . I already miss the characters
If you are looking for a book that shows love and forgiveness this is a book for you !
I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
A story of second chances with many turns that you don’t know are coming . I already miss the characters
If you are looking for a book that shows love and forgiveness this is a book for you !
I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
June 28, 2022
Grace and Joel’s story of redemption and love was a fabulous read. Perfect example of Christian love. Keeps you wondering all the way to the end! 5 stars for Jo Ann!
June 15, 2022
Another hit out of the park for Jo Ann Brown. A Search for Redemption is the third book in Jo Ann Brown's Secrets of Bliss Valley series. I have read one of the previous books (which was equally as amazing as this one), however these books can also be read as standalones. I throughly enjoyed getting to know these characters and walking alongside them in their lives journey. Forgiveness - grace and redemption are such tough things to learn and equally tough at times to live out. The characters in this story are flawed and at times broken - yet they continue to press on and press in - to God and to each other. I look forward to more books from this author as I am now her fan.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. Opinions are all my own.
Merged review:
Another hit out of the park for Jo Ann Brown. A Search for Redemption is the third book in Jo Ann Brown's Secrets of Bliss Valley series. I have read one of the previous books (which was equally as amazing as this one), however these books can also be read as standalones. I throughly enjoyed getting to know these characters and walking alongside them in their lives journey. Forgiveness - grace and redemption are such tough things to learn and equally tough at times to live out. The characters in this story are flawed and at times broken - yet they continue to press on and press in - to God and to each other. I look forward to more books from this author as I am now her fan.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. Opinions are all my own.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. Opinions are all my own.
Merged review:
Another hit out of the park for Jo Ann Brown. A Search for Redemption is the third book in Jo Ann Brown's Secrets of Bliss Valley series. I have read one of the previous books (which was equally as amazing as this one), however these books can also be read as standalones. I throughly enjoyed getting to know these characters and walking alongside them in their lives journey. Forgiveness - grace and redemption are such tough things to learn and equally tough at times to live out. The characters in this story are flawed and at times broken - yet they continue to press on and press in - to God and to each other. I look forward to more books from this author as I am now her fan.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. Opinions are all my own.
October 25, 2022
As an Amish story part of Harlequin Love Inspired, this is a clean, slow-burn romance that shows us the power of forgiveness and second chances. And Grace and Joel are really made for each other. Their emotions are credible and intense in such a sensitive way.
Since this book is part of the Secrets of Bliss Valley series (note to self: buy book 1 and 2, yesterday!!), there are a lot of secondary characters from previous books (or that was my impression) that helps developing the plot, among new ones. The dynamics in Grace's family were great and touching, with Grace's nephews unexpected arrival as a highlight. Joel's, on the other hand, were more complicated but that was the way it should be, right? Also, I really disliked Grace's boss Tiffany, while ADORING liberal Mennonite Pepper and her no-filter tongue. And Joel's reconnected with his two best fiends from his teenage days was organic.
When I picked up this book, I was in a mood to push my boundaries. Although I've read Love Inspired books, I never read an Amish story before. And this book—from an author as new for me as the topic—excelled my expectations. Even with a beginning that I couldn't get attached, as we explore Joel's evolution and Grace's blossoming through the story I got more involved with its plot. As from the Amish perspective, Ms. Brown did a great job with this book by showing this lifestyle and I enjoyed each second of Grace and Joel's story. A story full of emotion and a lot of lessons that can be wrapped in one simple word: LOVE. Because God is LOVE.
Since this book is part of the Secrets of Bliss Valley series (note to self: buy book 1 and 2, yesterday!!), there are a lot of secondary characters from previous books (or that was my impression) that helps developing the plot, among new ones. The dynamics in Grace's family were great and touching, with Grace's nephews unexpected arrival as a highlight. Joel's, on the other hand, were more complicated but that was the way it should be, right? Also, I really disliked Grace's boss Tiffany, while ADORING liberal Mennonite Pepper and her no-filter tongue. And Joel's reconnected with his two best fiends from his teenage days was organic.
When I picked up this book, I was in a mood to push my boundaries. Although I've read Love Inspired books, I never read an Amish story before. And this book—from an author as new for me as the topic—excelled my expectations. Even with a beginning that I couldn't get attached, as we explore Joel's evolution and Grace's blossoming through the story I got more involved with its plot. As from the Amish perspective, Ms. Brown did a great job with this book by showing this lifestyle and I enjoyed each second of Grace and Joel's story. A story full of emotion and a lot of lessons that can be wrapped in one simple word: LOVE. Because God is LOVE.
August 24, 2022
Welcome back to Bliss Valley! This is the third story in the Secrets of Bliss Valley series. Joel Beachy returns home after a stint in jail. He quickly befriends Grace Coffman and winds up becoming a handyman at her farm. We see many of the characters from the first two books.
I thought this was a sweet story about second chances- Joel has a second chance after life. Grace gets her second chance after losing her finance many years ago. I highly recommend reading the first two books before this one. The story will flow better. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Harlequin-Romance through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ASearchforRedemption #NetGalley.
Merged review:
Welcome back to Bliss Valley! This is the third story in the Secrets of Bliss Valley series. Joel Beachy returns home after a stint in jail. He quickly befriends Grace Coffman and winds up becoming a handyman at her farm. We see many of the characters from the first two books.
I thought this was a sweet story about second chances- Joel has a second chance after life. Grace gets her second chance after losing her finance many years ago. I highly recommend reading the first two books before this one. The story will flow better. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Harlequin-Romance through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ASearchforRedemption #NetGalley.
I thought this was a sweet story about second chances- Joel has a second chance after life. Grace gets her second chance after losing her finance many years ago. I highly recommend reading the first two books before this one. The story will flow better. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Harlequin-Romance through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ASearchforRedemption #NetGalley.
Merged review:
Welcome back to Bliss Valley! This is the third story in the Secrets of Bliss Valley series. Joel Beachy returns home after a stint in jail. He quickly befriends Grace Coffman and winds up becoming a handyman at her farm. We see many of the characters from the first two books.
I thought this was a sweet story about second chances- Joel has a second chance after life. Grace gets her second chance after losing her finance many years ago. I highly recommend reading the first two books before this one. The story will flow better. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Harlequin-Romance through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ASearchforRedemption #NetGalley.
April 3, 2022
This book was fantastic. What a wonderful storyline. The book is about Grace who has lost her fiancé and is caring for her ill parents. She works in a Quilt shop with a very pushy boss. She meets Joel Beachy when a storm hits and everyone enters the store to get out of the rain. This is a beautiful story. It is about forgiveness and friendship. Its a story that has a storyline that keeps you reading and enjoying. How hardship and sadness can be overcome with caring people. When I started reading this book I could not put it down till I finished it. This belongs to a series which I will go back and read the others.
August 7, 2022
I was gifted a copy of this by NetGalley and Love Inspired. This was a very cute and clean Amish novel. I found it frustrating that Grace did not stand up for herself and was not appreciated by her boss. The authors use of Joel and his past charges was really entertaining and what made this novel stick out from others. I definitely found it to be a quick and easy read.
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August 1, 2022Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Amish & Mennonite, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Secrets of Bliss Valley (Book #3)
Miniseries
Secrets of Bliss Valley (Book #3)
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