Hopefully Ever After

The Amish Bookstore #3

by Beth Wiseman

To become who they’re meant to be, Eden and Samuel must find the courage to defy expectations.

Sixteen-year-old Eden Hale doesn’t want to be defined by her current circumstances. With absent parents and a troubled past, Eden refuses to become what people expect. When she is sent to live with an Amish cousin she’s never met in Montgomery, Indiana, she welcomes the chance to become the person she wants to be without the burden of anyone’s judgment. Her hopes are confirmed when she meets Samuel, a young Amish man who seems to like her for who she really is.

Samuel Byler has grown up with strict Amish parents, and they aren’t happy that their only son is choosing to spend his free time with an outsider. As Eden and Samuel grow closer, disapproval swirls around the young couple. It isn’t long before Eden starts to doubt herself and wonders if she is doomed to repeat the mistakes of her own past, whether she wants to or not. Meanwhile, Samuel finds himself slipping further and further from his faith—to Eden’s dismay.

Both Eden’s and Samuel’s futures hang in the balance as they face decisions about who they are meant to be—both as individuals and together.


Sweet contemporary Amish romance
Book 1: The Bookseller's Promise; Book 2: The Story of Love; Book 3: Hopefully Ever After

Book length: 95,000 words
Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Fiction, Christian

368 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2023

About the author

"I wish I had the time to review books and chat with you here, but my writing deadlines just don't allow it. Please like my Fans of Beth Wiseman Page on Facebook where I try to post any news and interact with readers."
Beth is the best-selling and award winning author of the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, Plain Promise, Plain Paradise, and Plain Proposal. She is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Her other series--the Land of Canaan Novels--begins with Seek Me With All Your Heart, then The Wonder of Your Love and now, His Love Endures Forever. Seek Me With All Your Heart is the first Amish fiction book selected as a Women of Faith novel in 2011. Beth has also written three contemporary Christian fiction novels, Need You Now published in 2012 and The House That Love Built in 2013. In The Promise, (2014) Beth jumps way outside the box. This story takes readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. 2015 brings Beth back to the Pennsylvania Amish with her new series, Amish Secrets. She is currently working on book #2 following much success with book #1, Her Brother's Keeper.

You can also follow Beth on Twitter: @BethWiseman

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Clean Amish Romance, and This is the third book in the Amish Bookstore series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book. I do think you can read this book as a standalone without problems. I really fell in love with all the characters in this book. Eden's character touched my heart so much. I love the cute and sweet romance in this book, but there was so much more than that in this book. The ending I loved so much, and those two teenagers won my heart. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading a romance between two teenagers is unusual for me. Reading an Amish romance was just too sweet when it came to this book, Hopefully Ever After. In fact, I am pleased to say that I read all three books in this series by Beth Wiseman one after another. Although this book could be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend the delightful first two books, The Bookseller's Promise and The Story of Love. What an impressive series!

In this touching story, sixteen-year-old Eden Hale comes from a troubled past to stay temporarily with her Amish cousin in Indiana. Not sure that she wants to change for anyone, meeting a young Amish man named Samuel Byler changes Eden’s life in unexpected ways. Samuel has very strict parents and they are not happy with him spending so much time with Eden. He is at the age of Rumspringa, but knows that his parents don’t fully support that custom.

I found this to be an exceptional coming-of-age story. Both Eden and Samuel really had to examine their lives, and what their futures just might bring. Since this is the third book in a series, there were some recurring characters that we met in the previous books. This gives this book and the entire series a very nice family and community vibe.

These are the first books I have read from Beth Wiseman, and have put several of her other books and series in my TBR. She writes characters with strong faith and determination along with forgiveness and love, making the stories very compelling reads.

Many thanks to Zondervan and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hopefully Ever After by Beth Wiseman is book three in her The Amish Bookstore series.

Eden is temporarily staying with her older cousin Yvonne in Indiana Amish country. Previously troubled, she loves the peace she’s found there and her friendship with Yvonne’s nephew-in-law, Samuel. Their lives are so different, but they’re growing closer together by the day. She’s only there for a month, but they hope to bridge the gaps in culture for a hopefully ever after.

Beth Wiseman smartly continues the series with a novel that reads as a standalone. There are strong characters and plot. Continuity is maintained with the series. Religious themes of hope, faith, forgiveness, and love are throughout. Hopefully Ever After is a 5 out of 5 star read that I highly recommend it to all readers of romance, especially Christian romance.

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

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last in a three book Amish romance series....very fun.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Beth Wiseman series that I have enjoyed. It meshes the English world and the Amish world together. It has a great way of seeing the contrast between living in faith and living in the world.

Eden Hale is the cousin Yvonne Wilson who has been the main character in both previous books. She came from the English world looking for a valuable book that an Amish bookkeeper had at his bookstore. She is now working for at the bookstore and married to Amish man. Yvonne and Abraham have agreed to have Eden stay with them for a month. Eden comes from a troubled past. She does not know her father and her mother has been battling drug addiction for many years. However, Eden has been found by God. God has drawn her in because she has known despair and wants what is important. She has sworn that she will not be like her mother. Her first day with Yvonne, she meets Abraham's nephew Samuel. Samuel should be in Amish "running around" but because of the fear of his parents, they have given him a tight rein. Eden and Samuel have not only an physical attraction to each other, but a attraction of the other's lifestyle. Eden has always wanted a family like Samuel and Samuel always wanted to know what the world was like. Their curiosity of each other, leads to a friendship that causes problem for Samuel and his family and has put Yvonne and Abraham in a tight spot.

Reading Amish books such as this gives you a perspective on faith. Sometimes it easy to take for granted what faith is but reading about Samuel and his struggles about wanting to see the world gave me the perspective of free will and choice. The Amish raise their children to follow God, working together as a family and with community and when the become of age, the parents give their children the freedom to chose the English world or the Amish world. Living a Godly life is not about rules but keeping families safe in the arms of the a loving Father. Samuel was learning about that thru the eyes of Eden and it made their relationship a hopefully ever after!

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

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eden is a 16 year old whose mother is in jail and dying.Eden has had a tough life since her mother was incarcerated. She has been in several foster homes and is now living with her aunt. Her aunt had a trip planned before Eden arrived so Eden is sent to live with Yvonne and Abraham, who live in Amish country, and are Amish. The first day Eden is there she meets Samuel and sparks fly. Samuel‘s parents are very strict and immediately pick up on this English girl. It is a very sweet book about living in the Amish country and Eden is a very mature 16 year old. She is there in the heat of the summer and never complains about how hot she is. Since she is only visiting for one month there are lots of things that happen. The main thing is Samuel is determined to spend time with Eden and his parents are equally determined that he is not going to be with an English girl.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio

[Carol (Reading Ladies) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Hopefully Ever After is a sweet romance and coming-of-age story by a popular author of Amish fiction, Beth Wiseman.

Hopefully Ever After is #3 is the Amish Bookstore Series. Sixteen-year-old Eden has a rough life and is sent to rural Indiana to live with an Amish cousin she’s never met. This cousin happens to be Yvonne whom we have met in books 1 and 2 of the series. Eden meets Samuel in this coming-of-age story.

Although the two main characters are teenagers, there is an abundance of family drama and community involvement. Eden experiences love and acceptance from Yvonne and Abraham, and Samuel (Eden’s love interest) finds his own way into a healthy relationship with his strict and controlling parents and his religion.

A significant theme of this story involves two teenagers reaching for their independence and finding their voices. Other themes include family dynamics, community support, choosing or not choosing your parents’ religion, faith, second chances, trust, and sweet (closed door) romance.

I recommend Hopefully Ever After (and the series) for fans of Beth Wiseman, for readers who appreciate Amish fiction and rural settings, and for those who enjoy coming-of-age, family dynamics, and sweet romance. Of the three books in the series, Hopefully Ever After deep dives into Amish religious beliefs more than the others. My favorite of the series is book #1.

Thanks #NetGalley @Zandervan for a complimentary e ARC of #HopefullyEverAfter upon my request. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three in An Amish Bookstore series and I was so glad to be back. I love the backdrop story of the bookshop and the mystery of hidden coins there. It is a joy to revisit Abraham, Yvonne, and other characters from the previous books. I’m not a big fan of coming of age stories but I actually found Eden’s and Samuel’s story intriguing and was their biggest cheerleader as I was pulled into their stories. Eden has lived a lifetime of hardships that break my heart and I was so proud of the strength she showed both in her faith and her personal goals. Yvonne was the perfect person to show her love and what a healthy relationship looked like with her example of a marriage where prayer and communication were at the center. This is an Amish book that thinks outside the box and it pulled me in as did the previous books. Ms Wiseman has a knack for capturing your heart and attention with her stories and this one does exactly that. I give this a thumbs up for adding to your TBR pile as soon as possible.
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic book by Beth Wiseman! I absolutely love the way she writes! As I read, I became engaged in the story.

There are some familiar characters and some new ones. I connected with Eden immediately. Her unfortunate circumstances did not define her. She rose above them and grew as a person and in her faith. I also connected with Samuel. He's struggling with his faith and with his overprotective parents. Yvonne impressed me very much. She made mistakes, but she always apologized and asked for forgiveness.

The best part of the whole book for me was when Eden found out that her mother had accepted Jesus into her heart. I also liked the parts where Samuel's parents decided to let him grow up.

[Marieke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ach ja, ik hou hiervan. Genoten.

[Sherry Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Wiseman gives us a third book in her Amish Bookstore series. We meet some of the characters from previous books, but this could still be read as a stand-alone book.

Eden is a 16-year-old English young girl who has lived a very hard life. She has come to stay with her Amish cousin for a month as her mother is in prison and her guardian is away on a trip. She meets neighbor, Amish boy, Samuel, who wants to learn more about the English life, but his parents are very protective and do not want him to be around Eden or to be on a rumspringa and be exposed to the English life. Because of this, Samuel is considering leaving the Amish community.

This book is a book about young love, forgiveness, faith and hope. The emphasis on how the English struggle in their beliefs as well as how the Amish struggle with their faith makes for an interesting read. I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it to others.

I received a copy of this book from Zondervan and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Sandra Broome · Rating 5 out of 5]

It can be hard to rise above a troubled past, especially when the circumstances are beyond your control. In Hopefully Ever After, Beth Wiseman shows us how trust in God and a supportive family can completely change a person’s life. This is book three of the Amish Bookstore series.

Sixteen-year-old Eden has had a rough life, and now she has been sent to stay with an Amish cousin she has never even met. Yvonne and her husband Abraham show Eden the love and support she has been missing with her own mother. When Abraham’s teenage nephew Samuel comes into the picture, he and Eden begin to bond almost immediately, much to the chagrin of Samuel’s strict Amish parents.

Eden and Samuel’s story was the main focus of the book, and both characters were well-developed and very likable. I was delighted to see a new chapter of Yvonne and Abraham’s life, and I also enjoyed getting to know Samuel’s parents, Leroy and Anna. I didn’t think I would like this story as much as I did the first two books simply because the main characters are teenagers, but both Eden and Samuel are mature for their age, and Yvonne, Abraham, and Samuel’s parents featured heavily in the story. With so many different personalities and everyone wanting different things in life, the storyline was always interesting. I went through pretty much every emotion while reading this story.

I have always enjoyed stories by Beth Wiseman, and this one was no exception. I would definitely recommend this book. Although this story can stand alone, I would recommend reading the first two books in the series as well.

This book was provided to me courtesy of Zondervan through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hopefully Ever After is the 3rd book in The Amish Bookstore series and although I enjoyed it, I didn't like it quite as much as the previous two books in the series. Sixteen year old Eden Hale is temporarily staying with her older cousin Yvonne in Indiana Amish country. Although not Amish, Eden has a strong faith. She was known as a troubled teen, but she loves the peace she’s found in Montgomery, Indiana. She develops a friendship with Yvonne’s nephew-in-law, Samuel. Samuel is struggling with his faith, and is considering leaving the Amish Community. His family blames Eden for his doubts. Although they have lived very different lives, can they bridge the gaps and the issues they have to live hopefully ever after.

This book is part of a series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone book. This is almost a YA addition to the stories and both Eden and Samuel are teenagers. It is a bit of a coming of age story, with a clean sweet romance that has some roadblocks. Eden has been raised by absent parents so it was wonderful to see how she was accepted and loved by Yvonne and Abraham. I enjoyed her character and watching her grow and come into her own. She was not Amish, but had a strong faith that sustained her. Samuel is a typical teenager, who didn't know what he wanted and questioned his beliefs and how he was raised. They supported each other and were good together. Themes include teenager independence, family relationships, community, deciding on your faith and religion, parental expectations, new beginnings, and love. This was a sweet Amish Romance that I recommend.

[Kathleen Ryder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sixteen-year-old Eden Hale doesn’t want to be defined by her current circumstances. Her mother is in prison, she doesn’t know her father, and she’s had her own run-ins with the law, but Eden refuses to become what people expect. When she is sent to live with an Amish cousin she’s never met in Montgomery, Indiana, she welcomes the chance to become the person she wants to be without the burden of anyone’s judgment. Her hopes are confirmed when she meets Samuel, a young Amish man who seems to like her for who she really is.

Samuel Byler has grown up with strict Amish parents, and they aren’t happy that their only son is choosing to spend his free time with an outsider. As Eden and Samuel grow closer, assumptions close in around the young couple. It isn’t long before Eden starts to doubt herself and wonders if she is doomed to follow in her mother’s footsteps, whether she wants to or not. Meanwhile, Samuel finds himself slipping further and further from his faith—to Eden’s dismay.

Both Eden and Samuel’s futures hang in the balance as they face decisions about who they are—both as individuals and together.

The third installment in the series, and while you don't have to read the other two first, I think you will get more out of this one if you do. All the characters are woven throughout each story.

Another great installment in this clean Amish romance series, a lovely gift for anyone who enjoys Amish romance.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I read: Hopefully Ever After by Beth Wiseman

Why I picked it up: I read the previous two in the series earlier this year that focused on Jake & Eva’s story and Yvonne & Abraham’s story.

How I read it: The ARC on Kindle

What it’s about: Yvonne’s cousin comes to stay for a month while her Aunt Emma goes on a European vacation. Eden has had a lot of trouble in her life and she’s come out on the other side a faithful woman. But can anyone else see it? Samuel sees her for who she is, but his parents are quite strict and he’s ready to rebel.

What I liked: I appreciated the exploration of faith from these teens.

What I disliked: There were so many times when the adults jumped to conclusions about what the teens were thinking or their intentions. It was so clear to the reader that they didn’t have all of the facts or that they were operating out of pride.

Genre: Chaste love story, amish, grief.

Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and yes, it releases on April 18th – you do need to read the previous two in the series though or you’ll be lost for most of this.

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

[Katie]

This is such a wonderful story of overcoming your past and the way your grew up. It just goes to show that you can change and that if you had a hard upbringing you can choose a different path for yourself. Eden doesn't grow up Amish but ends up living with family who is. She has a beautiful transformation as she meets local boy Samuel and falls in love with him. Their story isn't without hardships but their love is so sweet and strong. Lizzie and Esther (from previous books) also make an appearance.

Beth Wiseman's books are always favorites of mine!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publishes 18 April 2023.

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

Reread: I stand by my original thoughts.

First Read:
Genre: Christian fiction, Amish fiction
Age: adult (but appropriate for younger)
Series/Standalone: series but can be read as a standalone
Content: Death of parent, kissing

Middle school me would have absolutely adored this book. Yes, they didn’t make the brightest decisions at time but they are also 16 years old. Some parts were slightly preachy.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

[Gabrielle Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hopefully Ever After: A Charming and Cheesy Romance Feast

Review:

Ready to indulge in some cheesy romance goodness? Look no further than "Hopefully Ever After" by Beth Wiseman, the ultimate guilty pleasure read that will have you swooning, rolling your eyes, and craving a mountain of nachos all at once. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of love, cheese, and enough sweet moments to make your teeth ache.

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

In this charmingly cheesy tale, we meet a small-town girl with big dreams of finding her happily ever after. She stumbles upon a picturesque town where everyone seems to have stepped right out of a Hallmark movie. From the hunky yet predictably brooding love interest to the quirky side characters who dispense love advice like it's their full-time job, "Hopefully Ever After" checks off all the boxes for a predictable yet satisfying romance.

Wiseman's writing is like a comforting blanket of clichés and gooey romance, wrapped snugly around you. You'll find yourself laughing at the predictable plot twists, sighing at the perfectly timed declarations of love, and rolling your eyes at the conveniently placed obstacles that threaten to derail the characters' path to happiness. It's cheesy, it's predictable, but damn it, it's also oddly comforting.

What sets "Hopefully Ever After" apart is its unapologetic commitment to all things cheesy. It fully embraces the predictability and formulaic nature of the genre, giving readers exactly what they expect. This book is a buffet of clichés, serving up deliciously cheesy dialogue, eye-rolling romantic gestures, and enough sugary sweetness to satisfy even the most voracious romance lovers.

While the characters might not be the most groundbreaking or complex, they're likeable enough to keep you invested in their journey. You'll find yourself rooting for their happiness, despite their occasionally frustrating tendencies to make questionable decisions. And let's not forget the obligatory dose of small-town charm, where everyone knows everyone's business and meddling neighbors serve as Cupid's little helpers.

In a nutshell, "Hopefully Ever After" is a delightful and cheesy escape that delivers exactly what it promises: a predictable yet satisfying romance feast. Beth Wiseman knows how to serve up a hefty portion of cheesy goodness, making this book the perfect guilty pleasure read. So grab a box of tissues and a big bag of chips, because you're in for a cheesy romance marathon that'll have you craving nachos and secretly hoping for your own hopefully ever after.

[Megann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three in the series and we learn the story of Eden and Samuel. Samuel is from a very strict Amish family and they don't like their children to associated with outsiders. Samuel though has reached the age of 16 and should be allowed to explore the world through his rumschpringe. This is the time that all young adults are free to do things that are not allowed in the Amish rules and decide then if they can live the strict life or if they will go out into the world. If they go out before baptism then they may return and be baptized at a later date. This is what Samuel's uncle did as he wanted to become a policeman and solve a mystery and get justice for a friend of his.
Eden has come to stay with her cousin Yvonne and Abraham while her guardian and Aunt was away on vacation. Eden, it seems has had a very confusing and rough life with a mother that is on drugs and in jail. A father that is not in the picture and friends who are not really there for her. She arrives on the farm and is immediately accepted by her cousins and feels for the first time like she may be wanted, appreciated and loved. But, can she outlive her past and make a difference in her life. One thing she has always wanted to do was to ride a horse. When her cousins nephew offers to teach her how to ride she is ecstatic. Samuel's mother is far from pleased and approaches her brother and sister in law to demand that they keep the two away from each other. Will young love eventually win out. Will one of them give up there way of life to accepts the others and will Eden be able to stay on the farm and not go back into the English world that she has learned is not all it's cracked up to be.
Also, will she be able to make up with her mother before something terrible happens to her.
Beth Wiseman is a master at opening the door and bringing you into the families of her stories. I know that the more I read these books the more I think would it not be nice to live in an area that is Amish and have the peace and serenity that comes along with being neighbors. I think I could give up many of the necessities such as electricity and modern conveniences as we live a simple life now. I look forward to the next book in the series and have been giving the blessing of receiving these books as ARC copies so that I can read and review them and give my honest opinion.
I know that once you start reading a Beth Wiseman book you too will be hooked and read all the other books she has written.

[Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has pretty much been a lifelong fan of Amish fiction, I honestly cannot believe that this was my first experience reading one of Beth Wiseman's wonderful full length novels. The only experience I'd had with her writing prior to this was reading some of the novella collections where she'd contributed a story. I was definitely in for a treat with this one, and I appreciated the fact that while this is the third title in her The Amish Bookstore series, it could be read as a stand alone without feeling like I was missing out on too much of the backstory.

Hopefully Ever After is a beautiful story that focuses around redemption, God's grace, and family and friendships. Readers are treated to the story of Eden, a young teenaged girl who has grown up in devastating circumstances. When a situation arises that causes her to be temporarily placed with an Amish relative, Eden feels she's finally found the solace and peace in God's presence that she's spent her whole life searching for. When a chance encounter leads her to meeting a young Amish teenager named Samuel, both feel an instant connection. While Eden is intrigued by everything she's come to see from the Amish culture, Samuel feels smothered by it. He isn't sure that this is where he sees himself wanting to be for the rest of his life, when the world seems to have so much more to offer. As the two begin a heartwarming friendship, it will call into question everything they've come to know and understand about their lives so far.

What follows is a breath takingly beautiful story about the challenges of growing up while trying to be true to God and His never changing presence in our lives. I think this is a story that will cause every single reader who picks it up to think good and hard about who they're living their lives for, and whether God is at the front and center like he always deserves to be.

I adored this one from start to finish, and it's without a doubt one of the best books I've read this year so far. It's unlike anything else I've ever read within the genre, and I can't wait to go back and read the first two books in the series, and to discover many more of the books written by this author. I'm only sorry it took me this long to give one of her books a try, as I definitely feel I've discovered a new favorite.

Final Rating: 5/5.

Thanks so much to Zondervan for allowing me to advance read and review this one!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Zondervan) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.

[Lghiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel has a lot going for it:
1. So many important themes including: forgiveness, faith, love, security, family, abuse, goals, healing, independence, maturity, drugs, love of books, respect.
2. Interplay of Amish and Englisch characters with several experiencing one culture and considering or actually changing to the other.
3. Temptations for both Amish and Englisch characters.
4. Contrast of Amish lifestyles with Englisch lifestyles.
5. View of how technology, especially cell phones, has affected the Amish.
6. A great plot centered around a 16 year old girl, Eden, with a difficult upbringing who stays for a month with her Amish cousin and her husband. She discovers what a real family could be like.
7. Lots of characters with their own difficulties—Samuel, a 17 year old with overly strict parents; Yvonne and Abraham who take in Eden for a month; Emma, a much older cousin who is Eden’s guardian; and Eden’s mom, a currently imprisoned drug addict.
8. Emotional tale as Eden and Samuel struggle with their attraction to each other. Eden, who is determined to not be like her mother, has a past to overcome. Samuel is unsure of God’s will and is anxious to see the world outside his home community as it must be so exciting.
9. The setting is described so well. Without air conditioning, beautiful Indiana farmland can be very hot in July. It was easy to imagine the characters with sweat pouring off them, trying to rehydrate and get a little cooling from battery operated fans.
10. There are lots of twists along the way, and as the book moves toward its conclusion, a happily ever after seems out of reach. Thanks to some surprises, although problems are not magically solved, the ending is quite satisfying.

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

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hopefully Ever After by Beth Wiseman is the third An Amish Bookstore Novel. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the series in order. It allows you to get the full experience. I thought Hopefully Ever After was well-written with realistic, developed characters. I enjoyed getting to know Eden Hale. She is a special young lady who will touch your heart. The author created wonderful characters for this story. I like that we get to catch up with the characters from The Bookseller’s Promise and The Story of Love. I was glad that we got to spend more time in the bookstore. Eden is fascinated by the idea that coins may be hidden inside the bookshop. Eden meets Samuel Byler who wants to experience the Englisch world and is struggling with his faith. Samuel’s parents are strict. They do not want their children to leave the Amish faith. However, their tight hold may drive Samuel away. I like that we get to see that the Amish struggle with their beliefs as do their Englisch counterparts. We also see that Amish parents are just like Englisch parents. They want to keep their children safe and nearby. We get to see that people make assumptions about a person based on their past and rumors. In order to truly know an individual, you need to spend time with them. A person can change and overcome their past if they remember to keep God at the center of our lives. Hopefully Ever After is a story with hope, faith, forgiveness, redemption, family, and young love. I loved the ending. I am glad we got to spend more time with Yvonne and Abraham (such a sweet couple). Hopefully Ever After is an expressive story with a visiting teen, a restrictive rumspringa, a wayfaring aunt, strict parents, finding forgiveness, and God’s grace.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hopefully Ever After by Beth Wiseman, book three in the Amish Bookstore series, meshes the English world and the Amish world together; showing the contrast between living in faith and living in the world. We meet some of the characters from previous books, but this could still be read as a stand-alone book.

Eden Hale, a 16-year-old English young girl who has lived a very hard life, is temporarily staying with her older Amish cousin, Yvonne Wilson, in Indiana Amish country. Previously troubled, she loves the peace she has found there and her friendship with Yvonne’s nephew-in-law, Samuel. Their lives are so different. Samuel is Amish, bt wants to learn more about the English life, but his parents are very protective and do not want him be exposed to the English life or to be around Eden; let alone be allowed to go on a Rumspringa. Because of this, Samuel is considering leaving the Amish community. Disobeying his parents, Samuel and Eden grow closer together by the day. She’s only there for a month, but they hope to bridge the gaps in culture for a hopefully ever after.

Ms. Wiseman wrote a story is about young love, forgiveness, faith and hope. The emphasis on how the English struggle in their beliefs as well as how the Amish struggle with their faith makes for an interesting read. There are strong characters and plot. Continuity is maintained with the series. Religious themes of hope, faith, forgiveness, and love are throughout. I highly recommend Hopefully Ever After to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and Inspirational

Teenage years are one of the many difficult times in life. For Eden and Samuel, it is especially difficult. They share many similarities in how tough the road towards growing up truly is, but they also have some differences. While Eden is searching for a deeper faith journey, Samuel is questioning his and wondering if he's missing out on life. Eden is trying to live in a way that dispels any preconceived notions people may have of her. Samuel, on the other hand, is walking the line while feeling like he's just going through the motions. As they spend time together, they fall into an easy and honest sharing of their struggles. They find a kindred spirit in each other which deepens their friendship and relationship. In turn, their relationship also has an affect on their family relationships. Sometimes the results are good and sometimes they are not so good. Will Eden and Samuel's friendship and faith walk be able to survive their differences as well as the good and the bad?

Hopefully Ever After is a wonderful story of hope, faith, new beginnings and second chances. The characters were realistic and drew me in completely. I found myself cheering them on and hoping that they would get to where they needed to be. It is a truly sweet and inspirational story and one that I highly recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and strictly my own.

[Elizabeth Dennison · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the third book in the An Amish Bookstore series, we find Yvonne and Abraham opening their humble home up to Yvonne's sixteen year old cousin. Eden Hale is looking forward to starting anew and overcoming her past circumstances. Her hopes of being seen as who she is, comes true when she meets Samuel a young amish guy.

Samuel has grown up in a very strict home and is looking forward to seeing what is out there in the "Englisch" world. So when he meets Eden, Samuel is excited to learn more about what's out there from her. But Samuel's parents are not very thrilled to have their son spending time with an outsider. As Samuel's and Eden's friendship grows, so does the disapproval of Samuels parent's. Eden and Samuel start to share their dreams and struggles with each other, which brings to light Samuel's slipping away from his faith. Will Eden and Samuel be able to make the decisions that will lead them down the path God has for them?

This storyline is very surprising for me as it does not end years down the road with Eden and Samuel married. It does leave an opening for another book down the road if the author feels like writing more to the series.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book the publisher and did not receive anything in return for my honest opinion of the book. The opinions expressed here are completely of my own are without any influence.

[Sarah Bickings · Rating 5 out of 5]

The last in the Amish Bookstore series can standalone on its own merit. But by reading the previous book, you can enjoy the continuation of those characters as we are introduced to a new lead. The two primary leads in this story are younger- 16 years old. As such, Hopefully Ever After is a tender and sweet coming of age love story. Eden and Samuel were a good match and the storyline was well done. However, where Wiseman really thrives as a writer is the interplay between characters- old and new. We get to revisit Yvonne and Abraham and their married life- I love seeing them interact and support 16 year Eden in the caring and compassionate way we would expect these two to act!. We even get the sisters of the Peony Inn- how amazing it was to revisit Lizzie and Esther! Samuel's storyline with questioning his faith and seeing how his parents navigate raising their teenager. is very realistic, that all parents of teens will relate to. It's those relationships that really tug at the heart-strings and nurture the soul. This book is such a warm and joyful conclusion to an excellent series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.. Thank you #NetGalley and #ZondervanFiction for the ARC.

[Eunice Chin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being sixteen years old certainly takes its toll on both Eden and Samuel, the former 'English' and the latter, 'Amish,' as they navigate their respective life challenges. Yet, meeting each other was cataclysmic, turning this into a wonderfully clean, circumspect romance.

Several of the Amish ways were cleverely detailed in this third book of the Amish Bookstore Series. The reader becomes re-acquainted with Yvonne, Abraham, Jake, Eva; oh, and the bookstore business.

Beth Wiseman creates lovely narrative eliciting a whole range of emotions from laughter to tears. She also incorporates belief in God and faith in Jesus Christ for salvation, which I very much appreciate and sanction. All-in-all, a hearty, wholesome read. Readers will find a helpful glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch words at the outset of the book. Thankfully.

A 5-Star rating from me.

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

April 2023

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. Honest opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Irene S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sixteen-year-old Eden Hale is tired of being judged by the actions of her mother. With her mother in prison and her guardian cousin going on a trip, Eden goes to stay with her Amish cousin Yvonne and her husband Abraham. Sixteen-year-old Samuel Byler wants to see and know more about the world outside his Amish community, but his strict parents aren't allowing him his rumspringa. Samuel volunteers to give Eden riding lessons, but his parents are concerned about her outside influence. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I love Eden who already has a deep faith and embraces almost everything about her new home. The relationship that blooms between Eden and Samuel is sweet and realistic. This book delves naturally into some deeper subjects such as death, rebellion, and forgiveness. I also love that Yvonne plays a role in all the books in the series so far. This book can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone, but is even better as part of the series. My only quibble is that part of the ending wrap-up is smoother than realistic, but I still love the story and enjoy the happy ending.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eden Hale is sixteen years old whose mother is in prison. She is living with a relative who is going on vacation, so she sends her to stay with a cousin who just happens to be Amish. Eden is a believer, but had never experienced the Amish lifestyle before.
Eden meets a local Amish boy, Samuel. Samuel is being raised by strict parents, especially his mother. Samuel should be having his 'running around time' that Amish teens are allowed as a way for them to explore a bit of the 'English' world and make the choice whether to join the Amish church or leave for the English world. Samuel's mother fears what Samuel would do and keeps a tight rein on him.
While Eden is sure of her faith, Samuel is not. He isn't sure he wants to join the Amish church. While Eden is drawn to the Amish way of life, Samuel does not appreciate it.
The two begin to spend more and more time together. Samuel's mother fears Eden may lead him away from them.
This was such a delightful story with great characters!
I was given a complimentary ecopy by the publisher, Zondervan through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.