Love Blooms in Morning Star

The Maidels of Morning Star #4

by Charlotte Hubbard

In the fourth Maidels of Morning Star novel by fan-favorite author Charlotte Hubbard, the five unmarried Amish friends who teamed up to transform an abandoned barn into the Morning Star Marketplace tackle the latest stumbling block to their success. When the elders vote to forbid any maidel to work after marriage, the rule forces one of them to make the choice between running the store she’s put so much effort into and the man she loves.

As Jo Fussner keeps the Marketplace humming, her heart dances with a joyous secret. Jo and Michael Wengerd, a shy nursery owner from a nearby town, have fallen hopelessly in love. When Michael buys a courting buggy, Jo is sure a proposal will follow. But she’ll have to work hard to gain her mother’s approval—because the widowed Drusilla Fussner is convinced that marriage will bring her daughter nothing but heartache.

To win Jo’s hand, Michael enlists his father’s help in convincing Drusilla to give the marriage her blessing—and perhaps even open her heart to new happiness of her own. . . . But just as Jo and Michael’s hope for their future grows, an even bigger obstacle looms. The Amish elders vote to forbid any maidel from working once she marries. Now Jo must choose between the beloved store she’s put her heart into, and the man she can’t live without. Conflicted, Jo will have to trust that anything is possible when true faith guides the way . . .

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

352 pages, Paperback

Published July 26, 2022

About the author

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian Charlotte Hubbard (a.k.a. Naomi King) writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Seasons of the Heart series. Like her heroine, Miriam Lantz, Charlotte considers it her personal mission to feed people—to share hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and food preservation are hallmarks of her lifestyle, and the foundation of her earlier Angels of Mercy series. She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Charlotte now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie.

Reviews

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

This is a Clean Romance/Amish Fiction, and this is the fourth book in the Maidels of Morning Star series. I really enjoyed this book, and I love that the women in this book did not let the men walk all over them even if they are Amish. The romances in this book were slow moving and sweet, but I loved getting to know these characters. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zebra Books) or author (Charlotte Hubbard) 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.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard is the fourth novel in The Maidels of Morning Star series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading this charming series in order. Love Blooms in Morning Star is an inspiring and heartwarming tale. I love the characters in this series. We get to catch up with all the people from the previous books, but this story focuses on Jo, Michael, Nelson, and Drusilla. We also get to spend more time with Nelson’s twin sister, Nadine. I like that the women speak up for themselves. I admit that I do not agree with the Amish rule that men are in charge of the households and make the decisions regarding a wife (like being allowed to work outside the home). We get to know Drusilla and learn what is behind her behavior. I like that the characters and their situations are realistic. They have real life struggles that readers can relate to. I like that the characters are a range of ages (from Jo’s teenage helpers to those in their twilight years). The descriptions of Jo’s mouthwatering baked goods will have heading for the nearest bakery. There are good life lessons including a special one on forgiveness. The faith element was nicely woven into the story. The Easter weekend celebrations were special, and I liked Bishop Jeremiah’s sermon. I enjoyed the camaraderie of the community and how people would come together to help each other. The ending is special and will leave you with a good feeling in your heart (and a smile on your face). I hope this will not be our last visit to Morning Star. Love Blooms in Morning Star is an uplifting Amish tale with scrumptious coffee cakes, pretty posies, an emotive mother, an exultant engagement, a deacon dilemma, a cheery twin sister, a benevolent bishop, conferring forgiveness, and sweet surprises.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very nice addition to the previous books, I really liked this book, the strong women that were not afraid to stand up for themselves. Jo is a strong character that although soon to be married, does not let that stand in her way of continuing her work at the Amish market that she and a group of women started in Morning Star.
Things do not always go in the paths we want or expected and sometimes adjustments must be made. Drusilla has difficulties, is very negative on the subject of marriage and is not easy to understand as Jo struggles to communicate with and understand her own mother while trying to make a life for herself with Michael.

It's a very good book with realistic problems and trials. I enjoyed this book and think you will as well.

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like Adam and Eve, we continue to mess things up and misunderstand each other. We thrash
about in our pain, inflicting our misery on others, and most of the time we feel powerless even when we're absolutely sure we're on the right path.

I have enjoyed this series of young single Amish woman who started a market in their Amish community. Each of these women have suffered and have found redemption in relationships. This one is no different. Jo and her mother Drusilla have their own battles. Jo's battle is two fold- her self esteem and her mother. She has found confidence in a young man Michael who has come into town from another Amish community selling flowers with his father. Jo's mother is not for this relationship and Michael's father has grown a fondness for Drusilla. Drusilla is one of those women that can be difficult. The foursome come together to help each other in a community way. Drusilla is one that isolates herself so her coming out of the walls she built around her because of the past is only done with forgiveness and patience. So much teaching moments with this one.

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

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.

https://novelsalive.com/2022/07/25/4-...




Love Blooms in Morning Star is the fourth book in The Maidels of Morning Star series by Charlotte Hubbard and only the second one I’ve read. It was a quick-paced read with returning characters as well as new ones.

Love Blooms in Morning Star is Jo and Michael’s story, but their families—her mam and his dat and aunt play essential roles. The Marketplace set up by Jo and four other friends, who were all maidels at the time, might play a different role in their lives now that some are married and others are to be married. Married women shouldn’t be working outside of their homes per their religious order, but can that be overcome?

The Bishop was caring and brought his community together even when difficult decisions had to be made. We also get to see him as an individual and in a committed relationship since he will be married soon to one of the maidels.

Jo and Michael are busy with their businesses and their upcoming marriage, but some roadblocks are thrown in their paths. Is their love enough to overcome any or all of them?

I loved how many members of their small community were there for each other, with the exception of a few. Their work ethics were front and center, and I enjoyed the descriptions of their hard work for themselves or others.

Michael and his father work together in their nursery business and have big plans to expand it and move it. Will it come to fruition, or will outside forces prevent some of their happiness?

Jo is busy with her bakery, and I could smell and taste the variety of treats she made. She was constantly feeding someone. Jo’s mom was a difficult woman to like and get close to for various reasons. I love how others didn’t give up on her and how life-changing decisions were coming her way. Her friendship with Michael’s aunt seemed to be a turning point for her.

The story has a good flow, with many storylines being woven together. There were family and friends along with hard work, their church, lots of prayers and Bible passages, beautiful and vivid descriptions, lots of love, marriages, romance, and happily ever afters. There was some sadness, anger, and tears but also hope, happiness, many smiles, and good deeds.

I loved the ending but wished the book went on a little longer since I believe this is the final book in the series.

Love Blooms in Morning Star is a lovely Amish tale and a great addition to The Maidels of Morning Star series. Ms. Hubbard’s knowledge of the Amish community is evident and adds to the authenticity of this series. I highly recommend this series to those who love Amish stories.

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and Inspirational

While it varies from person to person, for me there are many things that make a great story, one of which is a connection to the characters. I have to say that Love Blooms in Morning Star definitely did that for me. I found a very strong connection with the main characters, Jo and Michael. I was drawn into their story and shared with them in their feelings for each other, and also to their relationships with their families and community. I deeply felt what they felt as they dealt with their love for each other, to what they felt as they dealt with the roadblocks that kept coming up. It caused me to feel their joy, their pain, and their struggle with doing what was expected and what their hearts wanted. This created an emotional roller coaster that just drew me deeper and deeper into the story as I cheered them on and held my breath wondering how things would turn out. All the while, the themes of forgiveness, trust, community, and God’s everlasting love and His will came through offering hope that only He can provide.

There is so much that makes this such a beautiful and inspirational story that I cannot adequately convey. That being said, what I can say is that this is a definite must read and one that you won’t want to miss.

**I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All comments and opinions are strictly my own.

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star is a heartwarming story written by Charlotte Hubbard in her series The Maidels of Morning Star. I have enjoyed this series for so many reasons. The characters are so lifelike and really likeable. No Fussner has been my favorite character within this series. She is a very strong woman and so respected in her community. Getting to see more of Jo's story as well as her mom's added so much to this series. The author shows us that there is someone out there for everyone you just need to trust the Lord to find them. The storyline is wonderful and catching up with past characters was great as well. The cover will definitely draw you into the story.

I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet read that will make your heart melt.
This is the 4th book in the Morning star series and I loved every minute of it.
I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
I must admit I liked Drusilla after I got to know her better. Love and kindness can most times bring a person's wall down. Especially if it's the right person.
The author shows us again that it's all in God's timing not ours. Time and time again His plans are always better than ours.
With patience and the right time things can certainly happen.
We can learn a lot from the Amish. It's one of my favorite things about them. How they can pull together and help each other out when certain times call for it.
I found myself rooting for Jo and Michael all the way through this series. They are special to me. They are a perfect example of the right timing.
I highly recommend this sweet novel. 5 stars for a job well done!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jo Fussner and Michael Wengerd are.nervous to see if the other still feels the same when they serve as attendants at their friend's wedding. Driven away from one another by her mother, they affirm that their feelings are stronger than ever.
Drusilla Fussner is bitter and more erratic then ever. Nelson, Michael's father, enlists the help of his sister, Nadine, to help in his son's quest to have a future with Jo. All the while Nelson's heart is engaged in the entire situation too.
I enjoyed this addition to the series. I love that the women involved in the Marketplace aren't ready to just give up when ministers decide to blind side them when Bishop Jeremiah is away. They fight to keep their jobs and businesses. But, will this irreparably damage No and Michael's future. The obvious behavior of Drusilla becomes more that a personality problem and I feel the author handled it well. I lime all of the characters in this story. It worked well. I thank the publisher and NetGalley my advanced reader's copy. This is my own unsolicited opinion. This is a good series. The book can be a stand-alone but I recommend reading all the books.

[Kathy Wallen · Rating 1 out of 5]

August 7, 2025

Shortly before starting this book, I had finished watching a show where the main character was on a revenge spree and committing horrendous crimes in the name of vengeance, so I opened this book and half-expected everyone to keel over and die at some point or another, haha. My bar for standards was buried a mile underground for that show and I was still disappointed. Imagine how much worse it was with this book because I actually had high expectations and yet I was dumped off a cliff.

Thing number one: Naming your child "Drusilla" should be a crime against humanity.

Thing number two: I'm not entirely sure that this book wasn't written without at least the assistance of AI. The writing in this book was so weird and hard to read.

Michael glanced at her as though she were boiling like a cauldron of hot, sticky apple butter rather than bubbling over with joy. Rather than getting scalded, he wisely saved his questions for later.

HUH? What does it mean to look at someone like she's a cauldron of apple butter?!

Bishop Jeremiah: I also sense that there's a deeper reason for your unhappiness these days. Care to tell me about it?

Drusilla: Maybe it irritates me that you and Nelson and Michael—and even my own daughter—seem to think that my feelings don't matter anyway! So why do you ask?

"Hey, we're concerned about you since you seem depressed." "You guys don't care about my feelings!!" What sort of crack was she on to reach that conclusion? He's literally inviting you to share your feelings!

At some gathering, Drusilla is handed a packet by a lady named Margaret. She goes to the bathroom to check it out. When she takes it out, it's called a packet. When she reads the instructions, it's called a box. She then rewraps the box and puts it in her pocket.

So is it a box or a packet?? Those words aren't interchangeable!

"Bishop Jeremiah will be on you like a duck on a bug if you keep acting so antisocial. And ungrateful."

What the fudge does that mean? A duck on a bug? Don't you mean a duck on an egg? Please, please, PLEASE don't make me conjure the mental image of the bishop sitting on Drusilla... 😭

In addition to the nonsensical phrases, there were also a LOT of em dashes (—), which you may know is one of the telltale signs of AI writing. There were 1,123 uses of it, to be exact. Regular people usually don't use em dashes when they talk because it requires forethought and intentional tones to make it sound eloquent. Nobody in the twenty-first century does this in everyday conversations. The constant stop-and-go with the em dashes (used by every single character in the book and even the regular narrative) makes the writing very choppy and hard to read.

"You can keep her—and your new buggy—at our place!" Jo blurted out. "It's one thing for Mamm to say that you fellows can't stay in our dawdi haus anymore, but I see no reason for your horses to be stuck in that tiny patch of grass at the motel! Those English owners weren't figuring on Plain folks parking there, after all."

"Are you sure?" Michael handed Starla's lead rope to Jo so that he could push his courting buggy backward to hitch it up. "I wouldn't want your mamm to think that we were overstepping her authority—"

"Starla—and your dat's horse—can stay with us on my authority," Jo interrupted. "If Mamm makes a fuss, I'll take the blame. No arguing with me now, when you've bought a special buggy for us to go riding in. This is quite a surprise, Michael!" she added as she admired the way that his black buggy and charcoal-colored mare looked together. Wasn't it just like Michael to get all the details right?

He took her hand to help her up the black metal steps onto his new rig. "I'm glad that you see it that way, Josie-girl. I don't intend to upset your mother, but I don't plan on tiptoeing around her bad moods, either. We have a whole new life ahead of us—together. Shall we get on with it?"

It took me a solid ten minutes to type up these few paragraphs because this book's writing puts me to sleep. I can't exactly put my finger on why it's so hard to read. It just... is. Maybe it's because it has no flow. It starts and stops constantly and can't get a good flow going.

Thing number three: I have to be honest, I'm only halfway through the book, so I don't know if Nelson and Drusilla's relationship is going to work out. But if it does, I am going to riot. I asked the following question of my mother, brother, and four friends: "Jo is engaged to Michael. Jo's mother Drusilla is widowed and Michael's father Nelson is widowed. If Michael and Jo get married and then Drusilla and Nelson get married, is that incest?" All but one said no. "They're not biologically related" was the reasoning that I received. Here's the thing: they are LEGALLY related. If Drusilla and Nelson marry, that makes Jo and Michael stepsiblings... which would therefore make it incest. Even if Jo and Michael marry first, that makes Drusilla and Nelson in-laws and therefore still related.

Just... ew. This entire situation is ew and I hate it and why did you have to write the characters this way, especially in clean Christian fiction!!

Thing number four: I picked up this book because I was interested by the plot point of Jo having to go against the Amish elders' decree that married women can't work outside the home. I wanted to see if Charlotte Hubbard could do a better job at handling the topic of unfair rules in the church better than, say, Beverly Lewis. But I'm halfway through the book and the plot point has only just now been brought up.

Maybe I'll finish this book; maybe I won't. I probably will because I try to always see bad books, even the most atrocious, to the bitter end. But I honestly expected a lot more from this book, given the glowing reviews.


Addition from August 8, 2025

I did finish this book. Drusilla and Nelson do get married, so I guess it's time to riot.


It was almost painful to read the church service and Members' Meeting concerning the matter of married women working outside the home. Even though the women were technically in the right, their comments were so on-the-nose that I wanted to dig a hole and hide in there for a while to escape the dialogue.

Molly wore a grave expression as well. "When the cat's away, the mice will play. Let's hope that they play nice."

Huh?? This was before the deacon's announcement, so how in the world does Molly know about this? And who in the world has ever used that phrase before?

"It's the husband's job to bring home the bacon and the wife's job to stay home and cook it."

That's the only thing in this entire book that got a genuine laugh out of me. I'm stealing this quote.

There were a couple of other things in the rest of this book that rubbed me the wrong way, so I shall continue with my list...

Thing number five: The characters in this book pick and choose the bits of the Bible that they like. Consider the following verses, Ephesians 5:22-24: "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and He is the savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything." This is what the deacon reads in one of his church services. Notice how he helpfully omits the very next verse: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her." Do you know what Jesus did for the church? He carried the cross and was crucified when He did no wrong so that we sinners could be saved. Husbands are instructed to love their wives in that same powerful way.

And here is Jo's reaction to the verses that were spoken:

The passage about wives submitting to their husbands was a common Scripture for wedding ceremonies, so the congregation had heard it dozens of times. More troublesome than Paul's words was the way that Deacon Saul's lips curved tightly as he flipped backward to his next selection.

So Jo hears a part of the Bible that she doesn't like and finds it to be troublesome. Cool, cool.

Deacon Saul's eyebrows rose. "Why do you think that you have a say in this, Nelson?" he asked in a coiled voice. "You're not a member of this congregation, after all."

Nice deflection!

Thing number six: At the meeting, Jo says in front of the entire congregation, "I'm still single, and I will continue to manage The Marketplace!" Michael, her fiancé, is understandably upset about this and believes that Jo has broken their engagement. Yet Jo is told by her friends that she said nothing wrong because she wasn't yet married. Yes, Jo is legally single until she is married, but it's generally understood that you're single if you're not in a relationship. If I were engaged, I certainly wouldn't introduce myself as a single woman.

Thing number seven: The author has the gall to make an unmarried, childless (and Amish!!) woman claim this about miscarriages:

"Exactly. And Verna didn't make a lot of fuss because if a tiny bunch of cells detaches rather than growing into a child, it means that something wasn't right with it anyway. And our lives go on. We hope for the next time."

What a disgusting claim to make by a supposed Christian that unborn children who are miscarried are a "tiny bunch of cells" that "detach rather than grow into a child." It's unbiblical to think of the unborn as anything other than humans made in the image of God.

Psalms 139:13-16: "For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they were all written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them."

Fudge you, Nadine, for making light of a tragedy.

He seemed as surprised as she was that he'd broached the subject and spoken his truth without any preamble or fanfare.

😒 There is no "his truth." There is the truth, and that's it. If "my" truth is different from "your" truth, then it is subjective, and truth is objective. Speaking your mind, which is what the author probably meant by this phrase, is not necessarily the same as speaking the truth.

I thought that this would be a light, fun read and I was dead wrong!!

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star is a sweet story about Jo and Michael, who become engaged and look forward to their wedding. Jo's mother endured a sad marriage to Jo's father before she became widowed. She does not have a positive outlook on marriage at all. Michael's father, a widower, had a very happy marriage, and in spite of Jo's mother, Drusilla, being a mostly negative person, he likes her. A lot. With her terrible views on marriage, will he ever be able to sway her opinion? Great, clean story that was fun to read!

[Nyla Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star is the fourth book in the Maidels of Morning Star series by author Charlotte Hubbard. If you have not read the other three books yet, you will be able to follow the story just fine. This author does a remarkable job filling in gaps in the story.

There is so much to love about this book. The author has a great writing style. Her characters are down to earth and believable. The storyline and subplots were easy to follow. Life and spiritual messages were packed into this lovely story. One thing that bothered me though was how the author referenced a miscarriage (“because if a tiny bunch of cells detaches rather than growing into a child, it means something wasn’t right with it anyway.”)

One of the things that I really liked was the romance between an older couple. Normally the love stories are based around young people. This book had different ages which was a pleasant surprise.

I enjoy reading Amish stories. The camaraderie they have and how they pitch in to help each other is inspiring. Most of the books include scripture references. The details on meals and baking are a delight to read.

I highly recommend this uplifting book. It gets a 4 star rating from me. A copy was provided from NetGalley, but these are my honest words.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This continues the story of Jo Fussner, one of the original maidels who started the Marketplace in Morning Star, and Michael Wengerd, a nursery owner who with his father, has a booth in the Marketplace. Jo;s widowed mother, Drusilla, has been a downer about the whole relationship as well as her own relationship with Michael's father.. This story seems to be the culmination of the entire Marketplace saga but I will not be disappointed if there are more books in the series. It's hard to say goodbye to these characters who have become so familiar. Once again -- a great series by Charlotte Hubbard!

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

My blurb …
Jo Fussner is a crucial element to the success of the Morning Star marketplace; she is one of the five maidels who turned an old barn into a success. Jo and Michael Wengerd are in love but … the church elders have recently decreed that once married, a maidel can no longer run a business. What can be done? Anything? Will the elders change their minds? Will faith that God holds their future carry them through?

By the way, this is the final book in the series.

My review …
Love Blooms in Morning Star can be read alone; I had read the first book in the series, Morning Star. In that book, the five maidels conceive the idea of turning the old barn into a marketplace for Amish and Englishers but not without some difficulty. I’m glad I had done so and agree with other reviewers that you will probably enjoy this book more if you have read the previous three.

This series is a “clean, wholesome” romance as Jo and Michael deal with the rather sudden decree of the church elders.

The key characters are Jo, Michael, Nelson, and Drusilla. Drusilla is … well, let’s just say that you’ll finally learn why Drusilla is the way she is.

The plot has multiple facets but the fundamental element is faith. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” from Hebrews 11:1 is what carries Jo and Michael through this difficult time.

What made the book special …
I marked several passages and made a couple of notes. One was that “jumped to conclusion” was the real title of this book. How often do we get into “situations” because we did exactly that? Who do you think did this before you even read the book? You are probably right.

Chapter 28 has a genius idea on how to forgive someone when we feel like we can’t. Note to Self — read that section again … and again.

Charlotte Hubbard, the author, also handles quotes from the Bible extremely well. Ever read a book with Biblical quotes but they just feel “stuck in”. They didn’t flow with the voice of the writing. Not so with Charlotte Hubbard in Love Blooms in Morning Star.

I also thought the way the characters celebrated Good Friday was quite special.

I do recommend this book and rated it five (5) stars.

I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Love Blooms in Morning Star via NetGalley from the publisher, Kensington Books, Zebra. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

#LoveBloomsinMorningStar #NetGalley #CharlotteHubbard
Series The Maidels of Morning Star #4
Genre Amish
Pub. Date 26 Jul 2022
Pages 310
Publisher Kensington Books, Zebra
Cover Pretty but an error. No strings on her capp.
.Rating 5 stars

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard, the fourth novel in The Maidels of Morning Star series, is an inspiring and heartwarming tale. Jo Fussner has found love with Michael Wengerd, who has come into town from another Amish community, selling flowers with his father. Jo is looking forward to the future, but she knows it won't be easy to get her mother Drusilla's blessing. Drusilla has been warning Jo on how marriage traps a woman, especially once her husband is the head of the house. Jo can't understand why her mother is so against marriage or why Drusilla is brushing off the advances of widower Nelson Wengerd, Michael’s father.
Jo and her mother Drusilla have their own battles. Jo's battle is twofold: her self esteem and her mother. She has found confidence thanks to Michael who has come into town from another Amish community selling flowers with his father. Jo's mother is not for this relationship and Michael's father has grown a fondness for Drusilla. Drusilla is one of those women that can be difficult. As the story progresses, we get to know Drusilla and learn what is behind her behavior. As Drusilla spends time with Nelson’s twin sister, Nadine, Drusilla finally gains confidence in herself and her self-worth.

Just when Jo thinks all will work out, the elders decide maidels, unmarried women, can no longer work after they marry. Jo has poured her heart into the Marketplace. She can't imagine not having a hand in its future. Words spoken in haste put everything she holds dear into jeopardy. The foursome come together to help each other in a community way and find a solution to save the Marketplace and ensuring that the maidels, once married, are able to continue working; given they have their husband’s permission. There are so many teaching moments in this story; especially forgiveness.

Ms. Hubbard wrote a wonderfully sweet and moving story that had me feeling all the emotions; smiling, tearing up, crying of heartbreak, and frustrated with some of the characters. The message of love, faith, and forgiveness stood strong; making this sweet and inspiration read one I could not put down, draw me in, making me forget it was fiction. I highly recommend Love Blooms in Morning Star to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Cheryl Malandrinos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Morning Star where community, romance, and faith abound.

In Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard, Jo Fussner has fallen in love with Michael Wengerd. Plans seem to be humming along until the elders forbid any maidel from working after she marries. Will Jo need to choose between her store and the man she loves?

The story of Jo Fussner is the focus of the fourth installment of The Maidels of Morning Star series. Having found love with Michael Wengerd, Jo is looking forward to the future, but she knows it won't be easy to get her mother Drusilla's blessing. Her mamm has been warning her of how trapped she will feel once her husband is the head of the house. Jo can't understand why her mother is so against marriage or why Drusilla is brushing off the advances of Nelson Wengerd.

Just when she thinks all will work out, the elders decide maidels can't work after they marry. Jo has poured her heart into the Marketplace. She can't imagine not having a hand in its future. Words spoken in haste put everything she holds dear into jeopardy.

Love Blooms in Morning Star is another fabulous story in The Maidels of Morning Star series. Just like other books in the series, the main story focuses on one or two characters, but that feeling of community is front and center.

Fans of Hubbard's work will enjoy their return to Morning Star. Jo is the primary focus of this novel, but unfolding in the background is Drusilla's story. Many familiar characters appear in this novel. Though this continues the series, you could easily read Love Blooms in Morning Star as a stand alone. I just feel there is so much value in reading from beginning and getting to know all these characters from the start.

Booklist has said that Hubbard writes of "brave new beginnings from a refreshingly feminist perspective." I agree with that assessment, and her thorough research and realistic portrayal of Amish life continues to gain her new fans. If ever there was a faith-based series ready for the small screen, it is this one.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this 4th and final book in Charlotte's fabulous series, "The Maidels of Morning Star", it takes us to Jo, the last of the 5 maidels left to be married. Through obstacles, we weave to answer the question of whether Jo and Michael will wed. Not all stories have a happy ending so as we read each page, our hearts plead that these two find the happiness they deserve and want. But, add Jo's mother, Drucilla, that may not be possible.

In highlighting Drucilla's life, Charlotte addresses an issue most Amish Fiction Authors will not discuss, the fact that not all of Amish life is the life we romanticize about. It was refreshing to read of life's obstacles instead of rosey fiction. I will be honest, in the beginning of this book, I didn't think Drucilla would be likable in my mind however as her issues were addressed, I began to relate to her as a woman.

Drucilla doesn't want her daughter to repeat the life that she had to endure. Her fear of this accomplishes two things: Keeping Jo and Michael from their happy ever after and it keeps Drucilla from seeing that Michaels father, Nelson, who is a kind and loving man, is smitten with Drucilla.

The beginning of the series is based on the five maidens coming together to turn an old abandoned barn into a thriving Amish Market. In each book in this series, we are introduced to characters that quickly become charming and intriguing in their own way. The Amish Market is a place in your imagination that you would like to visit to enjoy Jo's yummy bakery goods or get some plants for your garden from the Nelsons.

Each book in this series can be read as a stand alone with no issues however, I loved this series and highly recommend that you start with the first one.

*I was honored to have received an advanced copy of this book with no request for a review. This review is my opinion alone of this book and series.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am often picky about my Amish romance authors, but Charlotte Hubbard is one who consistently delivers a good story. I fell in love with the Maidels of Morning Star in the very first book of the series. It's a little bittersweet to be coming to the end, but I still greatly enjoyed it.

This one focuses on Jo, the fifth of the maidels to find a prospective match, as well as her mother Drusilla. Her mamm is difficult to swallow in the one, but it is slowly revealed why she is so miserable. The disagreements and her awful mood swings actually started in the previous book. So while they are briefly described in this one, I really do think you're better off reading that one first to better understand this situation. This series doesn't lend itself as well to being all standalones. (But they're all worth reading!)

One aspect I found interesting in this book is how this particular order is trying to find the balance between their old cherished and traditional ways while also recognizing the need for new, more progressive ideas in order to continue to survive. It's definitely some food for thought.

But most important are the ideas of keeping the faith in difficult times, finding forgiveness in love and friendship, and staying true to oneself while still helping your community. There's also a sense of rebirth, which is appropriate as this one takes place in the spring near the Easter holiday.

I have loved visiting Morning Star and will miss it!

I received a requested review copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[C Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard is book 4 in the Maidels of Morning Star series, where 4 unmarried friends help turn an abandoned barn into Morning Star Market Place.
Jo Fussner, the last of the 4 Maidels to marry, and Michael Wengerd the son of nursery owner Nelson Wengerd have found love. But there is the problem of convincing her mother, Drusilla, that all will be well after she marries Michael.
Nelson and his twin sister, work together to help Drusilla find friendship, love and acceptance so she is able to let go of her hurtful past and move forward with her life and be happy as well as allowing Jo and Michael a chance for a happy life. Meanwhile, there is a church controversy over women working outside the home after marriage, and questions about who was to run the marketplace.
Charlotte uses her book to share the Easter story in a unique way.
A 5-star addition to an already outstanding series.
Thank you Kensington Books, Zebra, for allowing me to read, Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard. Publication date is July 26, 2022. I was not required to give a positive review.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star is the 4th and final book in the Maidels of Morning Star series by Charlotte Hubbard. This book focuses on Michael Wengerd, they shy greenhouse keeper, and Jo, the girl who started The Marketplace.. Michael's dad, Nelson, and Jo's mom, Druscilla, are also key players in this story. Will Michael's and Jo's love be able to overcome the possible closure of the extremely popular Marketplace? And will Druscilla's sour attitude ever be changed enough to see the good and kind man that Nelson really is? If you've read the previous books in this series, you definitely don't want to miss this book that releases on July 26. And even if you haven't read any of the other books in this series, this book would be a fun read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

#LoveBloomsInMorningStar #NetGalley

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jo & Michael build their relationship but not without circumstances stealing their happiness. Jo's mother, hiding a bitter secret, takes some of the happiness away also. Love Blooms in Morning Star is a love story of couples who have to get past hurts and learn forgiveness. The Old Order Amish rules are under scrutiny which further complicates things.

I loved reading about the Amish community life and the way everyone comes together in times of need. There are definite feelings of God's work in the couples lives with redemption and new love. There were some bumps and twists to the plot that made for some intense moments and kept me wanting to see how things would turn out in the end.

A very well-written Amish tale that warmed my heart and made it a very inspirational and uplifting read. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily choose to review it.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Blooms in Morning Star (book 4) is filled with love, compassion, romance, and a mystery. I've loved reading about each woman who help start the Market place and has found true love.

This book is Jo's story.

Jo's life with a Mother who is going through a difficult time emotionally, would be hard on anyone to take. Sometimes, it was so hard to understand and at times it was downright embarrassing. I love that the Amish community were concerned about Jo's Mamm and gathered around her to help and give advice. It was a trying time for her daughter Jo, who just wanted to be with her sweetheart, Michael. I do applaud Jo though for her love and caring for her Mamm.

I found myself totally absorbed in this book and kept turning the pages to find out how it will all play out. I think the theme of this book is to never give up.

What a great heartfelt read!

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, we are back in Morning Star, and with Jo's story, and of course her Mom Drusillia! Jo is one of the founder's of the Marketplace Mall, an old barn transformed so vendors and sell their wares, and has helped this Amish Community immensely!

Now the author has done an amazing job of bring you up to date, you shouldn't be lost as a read alone, but the other books are so good!

We finally find out about Drusillia! There are also those who do not like the Marketplace, and will the push their agenda.

What a great read this was, and I loved how things turned out for the women we have come to care about!

We also are gifted with a cameo appearance!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth book in this series brings us the story of Michael and Jo. This series has been a wonderful journey through the lives of five women who started a business despite obstacles. Jo and Michael secretly fall in love. However, Jo's mother is convinced that marriage will only bring her daughter heartache. Will Michael be able to win over Drusilla? Turns out his father, Nelson, is more of a help then both thought he could. But when a new law in their community threatens to destroy the relationship, both Jo and Michael must reassess their feelings. I love how the characters interact with one another. I also love that we are able to catch up with others in the series. A received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with strong Amish women, not afraid to stand up for what is right. This is the fourth book in The Maidels of Morning Star series. You can read this as a stand alone book, but I highly recommend reading the first three books to get to know the characters.
Jo owns a bakery in Morning Star. She intends to work after she is married. However, some of the deacons don’t want women to work once they are married. Jo and Michael have to navigate their relationship while holding strong to the Ordung.
This is a great story about love and taking chances.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Molly and Marietta hitched up and Lydianne on her way to the altar, who is left of the original Maidels? Jo, of course! In the first book I had her matched up with the Bishop, but I'm very pleased that didn't work out.

As they say, while the Bishop's away the Deacon and Preachers will play. Actually, they're NOT playing when they pass a rule saying that married women cannot work outside the home. This starts a firestorm in the community.

And what of Drusilla Fussner? Is she still cranky? Yes. Yes, she is. Will she get over it? Who knows! You've got to read the book!!!

This is the fourth, and final book, of the Maidels of Morning Star series. I highly recomment reading them in order before you get here.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of the stronger Charlotte Hubbard novels I've read. The Good Friday scene alone carried with it a certain poignancy befitting the most solemn day in the Christian calendar.
We've had snippets of Jo's perspective throughout the first 3 novels of the series, so it was really nice to finally see her and Michael getting ready for their own happily ever after (though not without some administrative difficulties for The Marketplace thrown into the works!). We've also seen the struggles that Jo faced with her mamm's discouraging (and at times downright disparaging!) attitude. It was so nice to see Drusilla be willing to figure out what was going wrong in her life and how to move forward with God's help into the plans He had for her as well!

[Mayda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jo and her maidel friends have created thriving businesses that they developed by themselves. Now, some are married, and others are getting married. Some elders of the Amish church take exception to married women working in public places, and this leads to controversy in their Amish community. Jo will soon be married, but a misunderstanding occurs between her and her intended. Adding to her problems are her unhappy widowed mother and her mother’s would-be suitor. As you can tell, much happens in this tale, filled with strong Amish women and the men who love them. It’s not a typical Amish romance, and somehow, that’s makes all the more interesting.

[Jazmyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserves 10 stars! It is a wonderful conclusion to the Maidels of Morning Star series. Drusilla, Jo's mother is adamant against marriage for her only child and daughter, Jo. Jo persists in ignoring her mother and meeting her lover, Michael Wengerd. When Michael's dad pursues Drusilla, thing come to a head. Drusilla finally bares her soul as to why she is against marriage. Will she successful drive the Wengerds away from her life?
Riveting read that was humorous at times. Amazing work, Charlotte!!

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely book by an author who creates touching stories of the Amish. I liked that this one included a tender love tale with an older couple, both widowed. She also presents a strong faith element centering around the celebration of Good Friday and Easter plus learning to forgive and to trust God more. The compelling story is a joy to read whether this fictional community is new to you or you have kept up with the series—but for maximum enjoyment read them all in order. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.