Letters of Comfort

The Friendship Letters #2

by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Friendship Letters Series — Doretta Schwartz has always enjoyed writing letters and feels her letters can be a bit of a ministry to her friends. In this series, exchanging letters that contain open and honest feelings and struggles helps Doretta and two of her best friends through the darkest challenges of their lives.
 
A Ministry of Letter Writing Restores Hope to the Writer
 
Doretta Schwartz used to be so happy and passed her positive attitude along to friends in several letters she wrote each month. But that all changed the day she learned of her fiancé’s death and a heavy weight of depression fell upon her. Feeling empty, she puts away her letter writing and won’t even respond to calls from friends. William’s twin brother, Warren, is also grieving his loss, while at the same time, trying to be supportive to his parents and Doretta. Doretta responds to Warren’s friendship, but is he just becoming a replacement for the once-in-a-lifetime love she lost?
 
Find out in the second book of The Friendship Letters series by New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.
 

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

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2023

About the author

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wanda Brunstetter’s second book in her Friendship Letters series focuses on depression and how much anguish it can cause a person who suffers from it. This book also explains how grief can sometimes cause severe depression. The Author has written a realistic and heart felt story about an Amish young lady who lost her fiancé in an accident shortly before what would have been their wedding day. I thought this book was original, emotional, unpredictable and interesting. I was drawn into the story from the first page to the last page. Reading this book made me feel more compassion for people who are depressed because of the death of someone they deeply loved.

Doretta Schwartz has always been a cheerful happy positive girl who wrote uplifting letters of encouragement to her friends. She was engaged to be married to William Lengacher and their wedding day was almost here. Doretta and William eagerly counted the days and looked forward to their future as man and wife. They pledged their love to each other but then something spooked William’s horse and it ran in front of an oncoming truck. Just like that Williams life ended and Doretta was in the hospital fighting for her life. Everything had changed in the blink of an eye and there wouldn’t be a future for William and Doretta. Why did God allow this to happen?

I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction and to fans of the Author. This book can be read as a standalone but I feel that readers would have a better understanding of the characters if book one was to be read first. Characters are carried over to this book from book one. This book is scheduled to be released on 8/1/23.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have found the premise of this series to be interesting, exchanging letters by the Anish certainly isn’t new or unique, but having a novel written in this way held my interest. Doretta Schwart who we met in the first book offered encouragement and friendship to her friends by writing letters each month sharing her positivity and being there for those she cares for. In this novel, she is the one in need of positivity, friendship, and caring to get her through a difficult time.

Eleanor is there for Doretta just as Doretta was there for her during a difficult time. I felt so bad for the heartache and trying times that Doretta faced after the loss of her fiancé and the depression she suffered with. The support of Elanor, family, and friends along with her faith finally brings the light back to her darkest days.

Overall, I thought this book was engaging and the characters are ones you genuinely care about.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book two of The Friendship Letters series by Brunstetter. We have lost the art of letter writing in this world. I loved getting letters. So, this series has been a fun series for me. I love that the Amish don't buy into the electronics world.
This is a good series to sit back and enjoy a simple life afternoon.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book about fighting an alcohol addiction. You would never think that the Amish have trouble with alcoholism, but this book showed that they do. Eleanor and Vic married, and moved to Pennsylvania where he was from. Eleanor did not know anyone there but she made friends and loved her husband. When he started drinking, she tried to keep it to herself, but at one point she did not go on anymore. She contacted the bishop and talked to his parents. She also wrote letters to her best friend and these letters helped her get through some very trying times. Everyone should have a friend like Eleanor has.

[Keren Herrera-Lyles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this wonderful and touching series.

This is the story of Doretta. Who in the previous is the one that helps her friend with her struggle in her marriage when her husband becomes addicted to alcohol.

In this story Doretta is about to marry and a couple of days before that. Her and her beloved boyfriend are in a tragic accident. After several weeks in the hospital after serious injuries she is aware that her boyfriend has passed. Her heart and her world are torn apart. And her friend decides is her turn to help her out. But with her boyfriend's twin brother around not only do they both come to help on their grief but also open up her heart to him. Because he has always loved her already.

I enjoy the way author Wanda Brunstetter captures a story and characters that easily can relate to oneself or someone close. With Bible verses we are lead along with Doretta to find peace within and hope for a future in the midst of a broken heart waiting and prepared to heal.

I received an ARC from the publisher/author. I was not required to comment a positive review. All stated here are my own. Can't wait to continue this touching and healing series.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book by Wanda Brunstetter. Book 2 deals with loss and not letting go of a promise that is no longer valid. How depression can pull a person down and one way they deal with it. I was in awe of the characters and could not imagine going through what the main characters went through. This story will have you reaching for a tissue.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in The Friendship Letters series and although it can be read as a stand-alone I suggest you read book one so you understand the deep abiding friendship between these ladies. I love the letter writing as it reminds me of the dying art of sending and receiving letters and the joy of discovering one in your mailbox. This book deals with depression after losing your fiancé and how Doretta, who has been an encouragement to others in difficult times now needs encouragement to seek God and move forward with hope. Eleanor although a busy wife and mother remembers how her friend was there for her and takes the time to be the encourager to her in return. It is a great reminder of how friendship is taking and giving not one sided. I have enjoyed this series as although they deal with a difficult subject I admire Ms. Brunstetter tackling the subject of depression and how there is hope in the storms of life. Warren is so patient and kind even though he is grieving also he reaches out to be a help. An all around good story that leaves you wanting these friendships to include you. I highly recommend.
Enclosed is a recipe and an author note on depression as well as discussion questions.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we first met Doretta Schwartz in Letters of Trust, the first book in Wanda Brunstetter’s The Friendship Letters, she was Eleanor Lapp’s best friend and confidante. While Eleanor was struggling with her husband’s addiction to alcohol, it was Doretta’s positive and uplifting letters that Eleanor relied on to see her through. Now, in Book 2, Letters of Comfort, the roles have been reversed. Doretta is the main character, with Eleanor playing a supporting role. Life is wonderful for Doretta – she is about to marry William Langacher, and start a new life. She will give up her job as a schoolteacher to become a full time wife and, someday, mother. When William is tragically killed, and Doretta seriously injured, in an accident before they can be married, Doretta’s world turns upside down. She is plunged into a deep, dark depression, and either does not want to, or cannot, find her way out of it. It is when she begins working part time with Warren Lengacher, William’s twin brother, that her depression lifts, just a little, but enough to make us hope she will get through these hard times. She finds herself enjoying life when she is at the nutrition center with Warren, and we get the feeling that Warren feels the same way. One possible fly in the ointment is that Warren has been half-hearted dating a girl named Margaret, who fancies herself as a cross between an Amish Annie Oakley, and a horse whisperer. It is almost as if she prefers horses to people, and dating Warren is more of a convenience than anything else. When Warren confesses his feelings for Doretta, she panics due to a promise she made to William before he died. She leaves Indiana, and heads to Pennsylvania, to help her friend, Eleanor, as she awaits the birth of her second child. When it seems as though all is lost, and these two will never find their way back to each other, their mothers step in. Their solution is to pray regularly for their children. While that may not seem like a solution, lifting someone in prayer is one of the most powerful things one person can do for another. In this 2-book series, The Friendship Letters, Ms. Brunstetter has chosen to tackle a pair of ‘worldly’ problems (alcoholism and depression) and show readers that even the Amish are not immune to them. Letters of Comfort is a story of love, friendship, and second chances, as well as the power of prayer. I received a copy of Letters of Comfort from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was drawn to Letters of Comfort due to its premise of characters being helped by letters. I like that idea! I enjoy writing letters (although I don’t do it a lot) and sending cards. A few years ago I began sending birthday cards to all my piano students. I feel like even sending cards is becoming somewhat of a dying art, and I’d like to do my part to keep it going. I thought that this book might have some good ideas there.

Oddly, letters really played very little role in “Letters of Comfort.” This kind of puzzles me, given the title. I know that this author writes a lot, though, and wondered if she was contracted to write this book before it was written, and then kind of went her own way with the topic? Anyway, it was an enjoyable Amish fiction read. I see that it is book 2 of a series, but it worked fine as a stand-alone; I hadn’t read book 1 (although its story is alluded to several times in this book).

Doretta is a young Amish lady looking forward to her upcoming wedding. A terrible accident kills her fiance and badly injures her, and things are downhill from there for a while. But wait—her fiance has a twin brother. Hmmmm—where will things go from there? You’ll have to read the book to find out. Along the way you’ll encounter horses, ornery cats, a health food store, a bout with depression, and a couple of letters between Doretta and her friend. You will most likely guess how things all end up, but that’s typical of the genre. Recommended if you enjoy Amish fiction. Just don’t expect much about letters.

[Tammy Layton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again, Wanda has given us a 10 star book with real life dilemmas thst a lot of us face. Depression is no joke but with lots of prayers, faith, scriptures and love of family you can make a good life for yourself.

[Barbara Rosario · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by the Bible verses and storyline to help with depression and grief.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic book by Wanda Brunstetter! Her writing never disappoints! It's wholesome Amish fiction from beginning to end!

The characters are relatable and genuine! Doretta experiences a huge loss and falls into a deep depression. Through letters of comfort from her dear friend, she starts to live again. Eleanor is the friend everyone should have. Her faith in God is exemplary!

I like that Wanda talked about depression. Many people suffer from it and are reluctant to get help. Wanda offers hope and encouragement through her words!

I was provided a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I recently got approved for a net galley that I requested because I love this author and because I had the first in the series and really enjoyed it!

I am not sure I enjoyed this as much as the first one but still glad I got to read it.

“Doretta smiled as she folded her friend’s letter and slipped it back in the envelope.”

What I liked:
- Depression representation
- Heartbreakingly beautiful
- Easy to read without having read the first

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have now read both books of this series and I loved how they continued with friends and their relationships. This book tells a tragic story for Doretta Schwartz who is counting the days to her wedding, a wedding that does not happen. As depression changes the always happy Doretta, she sinks further and further into her mental challenges.
The book tells about real life issues that happen to many people for different reasons, and it shares her trials and need for dear friends and family to help her find her happiness again. I found this to be a very thought provoking story and I enjoyed it very much. I look forward to the next book of the series. I love the letter-writing theme as this was a big part of my earlier years, as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed these series in the fine art of letter writing between Amish friends. Eleanor from the first book was finding encouragement from Doretta and now the roles have reversed. Doretta is now finding encouragement from Eleanor thru letter writing. The funny thing about encouragement and giving encouragement is that is may not be received from the recipient. Meaning, when a person is hurting, it is very difficult to process encouragement. Doretta was at the phase. However, a true friend never gives up. I appreciated the painstaking way that this played out. Expectations from both parties is not always met so what do you do.

Doretta was looking forward to being the future wife of William. They had grown up together and with a few days before their wedding, a terrible accident changed everything. It changed Doretta's faith, her demeanor, and her relationships. William's family was also suffering the loss of a son and a brother. His twin brother Warren was especially hurting not only for his brother but for Doretta as well. For as long as he could remember, he had a crush for Doretta.

Their story took on the journey of grief and depression. How each person handles their grief differently and how our relationship with God will heal our hurt and gives us a hope. A very special story indeed.

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

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doretta proved to be a faithful friend during the darkest time of Eleanor’s life. But when a horrible accident changes Doretta’s life forever just days before her wedding, it is Eleanor’s turn to comfort her best friend. Broken in body and spirit, Doretta spirals into deep depression. Unable to find her way out, she questions her faith in God and doubts her future can hold anything good. Eleanor’s encouraging letters go unanswered, until circumstances bring Doretta to a place where she can see things in a new light, and she finally reaches out to her friend, and God, for help. God has a plan for her future that may not be what she imagined, but it is a wonderful gift.
In book one of The Friendship Letters series, Brunstetter brilliantly handled the difficult topic of alcoholism, drawing from her own experiences with her father. In this book, she addresses depression based on growing up with her mother’s bipolar disorder. Everyone processes grief and loss in his own way. What matters is Who we turn to during our worst times. God can lift us out of our despair when we finally give up trying to do it all on our own. I eagerly looked forward to this sequel, and it was worth the wait. I would love to see more in this series.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doretta enjoys writing letters and corresponding with her friends to offer encouragement and a shoulder to lean on. When her best friend Eleanor went through her own trying times, she reached out to Doretta by way of letters, telling her of her struggles with her newlywed husband, in which Doretta responded with advice. Suddenly, Doretta’s life is turned upside down by the tragic loss of her fiancée, William and Eleanor decides to return the favor of writing letters of comfort to Doretta. Even though Eleanor lives in a different county, she can tell through abrupt conversations and lack of response to her letters that Doretta has slipped into depression. When Warren, William’s twin brother, reaches out to Doretta to offer support even though he is struggling with his own loss of his brother, they begin to develop a relationship. Will this sudden friendship be enough to pull Doretta out of her depression? How will Warren’s relationship with Doretta affect his relationship with his girlfriend Margaret? Please read Letters of Trust first so you have a complete understanding of who the characters are.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review. All words and opinions are my own.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a few WB books that were a tad disappointing to me this one was very good. It kept me interested and felt like the earlier works of WB.

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Scripture Connection
I will not leave you comfortless:
I will come to you.
John 14:18

Spiritual Themes
Characters often pray for one another, as well as for themselves. Characters pray about making the right decisions and about discerning God’s will. Characters also frequently pray for friends and family members.

After losing William, Doretta struggles to believe that God really cares for her. Much of the plot is about her dear friend, Eleanor, seeking to comfort her in this time. Both women encounter words of truth in the devotionals they read. There are also several Bible verses quoted, throughout.

What I Liked
This was my first time reading a novel by Wanda E. Brunstetter, although I have often seen her books. Something I did not know, prior to reading Letters of Comfort, is that Brunstetter is a pioneer in the genre AND that Amish people read her books and appreciate her representation of the Amish. I learned both of these things in the About the Author section, and I am very glad to know that the people represented in this book (albeit in a general sense) approve of how Brunstetter portrays them.

Perspectives
For the most part, I enjoyed the various character perspectives, which also lent to the novel’s pacing. I liked that, in addition to the perspectives of the main characters, Doretta and Warren, we also get to read about both of their mothers, Amanda and Betty. I also enjoyed reading about Margaret, and wouldn’t mind a book from her perspective.

I was considerably less interested in narration from Eleanor’s point of view, although I considered her an excellent friend to Doretta. I think I would have been more interested in reading about Eleanor if I knew her as a protagonist (in Letters of Trust), and I also probably would have found Doretta to be a more sympathetic character, if I had read book one. Therefore, although Letters of Comfort functions as a standalone in terms of plot, I suspect this title is best read in the context of the series.

Setting/Genre
I have read a handful of Amish fiction authors, so it’s fun to have finally read a work by a pioneering author in the genre. Amish fiction novels often lend a sense of comfort, with their pastoral settings and with the strong sense of community between the pages. In Letters of Comfort, I enjoyed reading about Doretta’s day-to-day life, even in the midst of her grief. I appreciated the coziness of the choring: cooking, baking, and even doing laundry, and I especially enjoyed reading about the foods being enjoyed (and the multiple cups of tea drunk).

I also liked Warren’s health store as a setting. I live at home with my mom, who is very homeopathic, and it was fun to read about the proprietor of an Amish health store.

Respectful Discussion
This is a mixed note: the author infuses dialect into the text, which is almost always immediately followed by the English translation of the word. I appreciate the translations because I do occasionally encounter instances in fiction where context clues are not enough. At points, the translations made the dialogue feel a bit stilted, to me. Similarly, there were moments when the Scripture inclusions felt forced.

Content Notes
The book deals with depression, which the author discusses further in an end note. Early on, Doretta’s betrothed dies in a buggy accident.

Recommendation Status
Although Letters of Comfort started off a bit slowly, for my taste, I did enjoy the story, and even found myself missing it, a few days after finishing it. Recommended for readers who enjoy gentle Amish fiction.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this novel as much as the first one in this Friendship Letters series, Letters of Trust. There are many things I appreciate about the Amish, including their faith in the Lord and their love for their family and friends. Another is how many still use what, in the English world, is the almost lost gift of writing letters.

The best friends in this series treasure their friendships with each other as much as they did when living in the same district. What makes their letters so rich and unique is how the best friends, now separated by many miles, grow closer when one has a crisis of life or faith. The writers of the letters share scripture, Amish wisdom, love, faith, and every day events.

For Doretta, letter writing was staying in touch and as a means to help and encourage others. She had comforted and encouraged Eleanor through a devastating time. Doretta has always been an optimistic and positive person. When she is in crisis, it is hard for her to receive that encouragement, especially when her faith is failing.

Days before her wedding to William, he is taking Doretta on a buggy ride to show her a surprise. Before they arrive at their destination, however, the unthinkable occurs. William is dead and Doretta has serious injuries, perhaps even lifelong disability. Unconscious for many days, she could not even attend his funeral. When she finally awoke, her mother had to tell her what happened to William and what her injuries were. Devastated, Doretta wishes she had been the one who died. She does not want others to see her injuries, the possible scarring from her brace, or her broken heart.

Doretta’s grief turned into serious depression. She would not accept visitors, even Warren, her childhood friend and William’s twin. He is grieving and going on as best as he can, including opening the health food business they had planned. Doretta’s mother, Amanda, and Eleanor have communicated when possible. Eleanor has sent several letters. Doretta cannot use her writing hand yet, but Amanda had offered to write to Eleanor for Doretta. Doretta also refuses to see a doctor for any kind of medication, and was furious when her mother asked Warren what supplements might help the depression. She does not know if the Lord even cares about her. The only thing worse than depression, for her, is her crisis of faith.

This novel shows very sensitive, vital, concerns that many balk to speak about with anyone. We see how one can minister to another who is not yet ready for more than simple conversation. Even when Eleanor did not hear back from Doretta, or Doretta refused her visit or phone call, Eleanor continued writing, even sending simple gifts. Ultimately, Eleanor never stopped praying for her dear friend, and when Doretta was ready to talk, Eleanor would be there.

I have loved this journey with Doretta and seeing Eleanor and her husband Vic again. For different reasons or triggers, I have been on both sides of this challenging disorder, and while each person is different, the author’s suggestions are very fitting. I was so absorbed in the novel that I was almost ready to pray for Doretta! I highly recommend this novel and series to those who appreciate Amish Christian novels demonstrating aspects of faith and life, including helping those we love.


From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from Goodreads Firstreads and from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Lghiggins · Rating 3 out of 5]

In Letters of Trust, Doretta encouraged her friend Eleanor through a difficult time in Eleanor’s marriage when her husband Vic sought relief from grief and guilt by turning to alcohol. In Letters of Comfort, Eleanor tries to support Doretta when her fiancé William passes away shortly before their marriage from an accident in which Doretta is also very badly injured. In her grief, Doretta draws away from God, friends, and family.

In her first book in the Friendship Letters Series, author Wanda E. Brunstetter addresses a more serious subject than is typical of her novels—alcoholism. In this second book, Letters of Comfort, Brunstetter attacks another difficult issue, depression. In a letter to the reader at the end of the book, she explains that her own mother suffered from bipolar disorder. Thus Brunstetter is all too familiar with depression and its symptoms. She encourages readers to seek help in a variety of ways from lifestyle changes to professional guidance.

In this book, Doretta’s life is complicated by a promise to her fiancé to never love anyone else. Will she change her resolve to keep that promise? Can William’s identical twin brother Warren move on from his grief? Both Warren's and Doretta’s families have known each other since their children were little and all of them are grieving. Eleanor, pregnant with a second child, wants to help Doretta and encourages her as best she can from afar while Doretta is rejecting any efforts of help. Along the way there are complications as Warren tries to open the nutitional supplements store he and William were establishing and as Margaret, Warren’s girlfriend, struggles with priorities as her attachment to horses with behavioral problems increases<.

This book is a little slow at times, perhaps to demonstrate that one does not “snap out” of grief and depression. It takes time. There are some key events towards the end that propel the plot forward more quickly. I did not have a strong emotional attachment to any of the characters, but I did appreciate the author’s conclusion. She provides appropriate and satisfactory closure for all. This is not a page turner, but I enjoyed it; and I do look forward to the next book in the series, Letters of Wisdom.

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

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written story about grief and friendship. I loved how the author develops her characters slowly while showing how they grow and overcome obstacles. Getting to know Doretta was a look at someone who is grieving a loved one. Everything was going so perfect for her as her wedding day was fast approaching. An evening before the wedding her soon to be husband takes her on a buggy ride. He has a big surprise for her and can’t wait to see how excited she will be. When tragedy comes Doretta’ dreams are shattered.

Finding out that her beloved William has died was too much for her. She missed his funeral due to being in the hospital. Now she faces a life without him and a journey of recovering from her own injuries from the accident. Her bitterness is evident as she pushes family, friends and God away. I loved how her dear friend Eleanor continues to write letters of comfort to Doretta. Even though Doretta does not respond we can tell she slowly is allowing scriptures and encouraging words to heal her anger and broken heart. The author does an excellent job of using different people to speak into Doretta’s life. People react differently to grief and I could understand why Doretta was angry. Her life is forever changed and she doesn’t feel like she has a future anymore.

Warren is grieving the loss of his twin brother William. The entire family has been shaken by his death and it is hard to go forward at times. Warren tries so hard to keep himself busy but there are a few people who seem to bother him a little too much. His sweet mother hovers over Warren which upsets him. In her own grieving process she tries to hold tight to her remaining son. Warren was very close to his brother and as twins they shared many things. Now he is left with a big hole in his heart. I appreciate how he reaches out to Doretta and tries to comfort her. I loved when he reminds Doretta what 2 Corinthians 5:8 says, “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. “

This has been a great story that reminds us to never give up on our friends. Eleanor continued to write to Doretta even when she didn’t get a reply. Warren faces his feelings and learns to trust God more. Doretta well that will be a surprise for readers to discover.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a read!
As always I dearly love Brunstetter's books.
I couldn't put this book down so I ended up finishing it one day.
My heart broke for Doretta. But she's a very lucky girl. Yes, I know she didn't see it at the time but I kept rooting for her throughout this beautiful story.
Things can happen in a blink of an eye for sure.
This is where trust in God comes in.
I cried in some places and smiled too.
It's the faith and love of God who's always there for us even when we refuse to see it at the time.
Brunstetter has done a wonderful job with grief and depression. I love how she shows a different side of the Amish. Even the Amish can go through things like this.
A very well written story that captured my heart from the beginning and not letting go.
Grief never has a time limit. Even after time you will still miss that person.
I know, I miss my mama every day. She was a wise soul just like Amanda and Betty is. I admired these women because they were saints in my opinion. And being a mother I definitely connected with them.
Depression is real folks. That's why it's important to keep checking on a friend or a loved one at all times. Even if they don't want you to.
Story also reminds us that if it's meant to be it will happen. That is the hardest thing to accept.
I'm like Doretta in that way. I don't do well with change. But, in time I do learn to accept it. Heaven knows it's something we don't have control over anyways, but still, you know?
A change happened to me today. I will miss a dear friend because he went on to something better. I feel left behind but I guess it was God's will.
I hope we'll still get to see him sometimes.
I'm so very happy for Doretta who has Eleanor for a dear friend. I wish I had someone like Eleanor.
This book was a gentle reminder for us all that if it's God's will/timing then nothing we do will change things.
I so loved this book. I didn't want it to end.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Letters of Comfort by best-selling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is book two in her series The Friendship Letters. This is a Christian, contemporary Amish fiction. It could be read as a stand alone but since the book shares characters with Book 1, readers might benefit from reading it first. The author does a stellar job keeping readers appraised on the activities that happened previously.

This is the story of Doretta. The book opens with Doretta and finance William joyfully counting down the days until their wedding. Then tragedy strikes in the form of a buggy accident and things swiftly change. Doretta is critically injured and in a coma. William is killed without her even knowing it.

From page I was invested in the story and its characters. My heart hurt for Doretta for the deep loss she had incurred. Her story was written in an open and honest way. This book shows ways that help those who are hurting. There is a strong message of faith woven throughout the entire fabric of this novel.

With themes of grief, depression, struggles, friendship, faith, and second chances, this is an emotionally charged story. Depression is handled in a realistic way. The characters are expertly crafted and believable. The dialog is authentic. For the most part the story is predictable, but the message of hope and restoration is genuine. This is a deeper, realistic subject series than most Amish ones that I have read. These issues are things that happen to everyone.

I highly recommend this book. It will stay with you and make you ponder over its finely crafted tale for a long time. This would make a great reading group choice. After the conclusion of the story, is a recipe from it. Following that are a note from the author, discussion question guide, and a listing of all of the books written by the author. I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my honest words.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:

Friendship Letters Series — Doretta Schwartz has always enjoyed writing letters and feels her letters can be a bit of a ministry to her friends. In this series, exchanging letters that contain open and honest feelings and struggles helps Doretta and two of her best friends through the darkest challenges of their lives.

A Ministry of Letter Writing Restores Hope to the Writer

Doretta Schwartz used to be so happy and passed her positive attitude along to friends in several letters she wrote each month. But that all changed the day she learned of her fiancé’s death and a heavy weight of depression fell upon her. Feeling empty, she puts away her letter writing and won’t even respond to calls from friends. William’s twin brother, Warren, is also grieving his loss, while at the same time, trying to be supportive to his parents and Doretta. Doretta responds to Warren’s friendship, but is he just becoming a replacement for the once-in-a-lifetime love she lost?

Find out in the second book of The Friendship Letters series by New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.

My Review:

Amish are human just as much as you and I and the author Wanda Brunstetter lets us in the raw of it in her latest addition to the series. Doretta is such a kind graceful person that has become close to her pen pals, but when tragedy strikes close to home--her friends learn far more about her than they knew before. Doretta is so torn with her feelings from losing William.

I loved how raw Wanda exposed Doretta. It is something rarely seen in Amish culture. A very touching addition to the Friendship Letters series!

**Disclosure**This was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Letters of Comfort by Wanda E. Brunstetter
(Friendship Letters, 2)
Friendship Letters Series — Doretta Schwartz has always enjoyed writing letters and feels her letters can be a bit of a ministry to her friends. In this series, exchanging letters that contain open and honest feelings and struggles helps Doretta and two of her best friends through the darkest challenges of their lives.
A Ministry of Letter Writing Restores Hope to the Writer
Doretta Schwartz used to be so happy and passed her positive attitude along to friends in several letters she wrote each month. But that all changed the day she learned of her fiancé’s death and a heavy weight of depression fell upon her. Feeling empty, she puts away her letter writing and won’t even respond to calls from friends. William’s twin brother, Warren, is also grieving his loss, while at the same time, trying to be supportive to his parents and Doretta. Doretta responds to Warren’s friendship, but is he just becoming a replacement for the once-in-a-lifetime love she lost?
Find out in the second book of The Friendship Letters series by New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.
This is Doretta Schwartz,William and twin brother Warren Lengacher's story.
A story of faith, hope,and romance!
I recommend this book.
Letters of Comfort by Wanda E. Brunstetter is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Wanda E. Brunstetter. .
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Danae Wyns · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of the series and the best so far! Letters of Comfort follows Doretta's journey more detailed and closely. After the death of her fiance, her interest in communication with her close friend Eleanor through letters is almost non-existent, which leaves Eleanor to wonder what is really going on with Doretta. Doretta's relationships are challenged following the incident and her relationship with herself as she battles depression. With her family, Eleanor, and her fiance's twin brother Warren all trying to connect it is up to Doretta to return the friendships.

The friendship letter series really gives insight into some complex topics that people go through. This book focuses on the loss of a loved one and the depression that can come after. There is a lot of truth in the challenges that the characters face but it shows the power of friendship and love and how to overcome them.

I rate this book 3.75 stars. It will give you the feeling of being faster-paced than the first one which will keep you engaged. I am very intrigued by what the next book could bring. After reading The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club (Favorite) and The Amish Cooking Class (Second Favorite) series I do enjoy getting to know the characters and how you continue to hear their stories while being introduced to new beginnings of others.

If you are looking for a book with Amish Faith, friendship, grief, and love this book is for you!

Thank you, NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the copy!

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Letters of Comfort by Wanda E. Brunstetter, book two in her Friendship Letters series, a wonderful and touching series. This story focuses on depression and the amount of pain and heartbreak it can cause a person who suffers from it. This story also illustrates how grief can sometimes cause severe depression. This is a heartfelt story about an Amish young lady who lost her fiancé in an accident shortly before what would have been their wedding day.

Doretta Schwartz offered encouragement and friendship to her friends by writing letters each month sharing her positivity and being there for those she cares for; in the previous book. This time, she is the one in need of positivity, friendship, and caring to get her through a difficult time. Days before she is to marry she and her fiancé are in a tragic accident. Her heart and her world are torn apart with the loss of her fiancé, along with the depression she suffers. Her friend, Eleanor, decides it is her turn to help her out; as Doretta helped her the previous year. With the support of Eleanor, family, and friends, along with her faith, the light returns to her, lighting her darkest days.

Ms. Brunstetter wrote a wonderfully sweet and moving story that had me feeling all the emotions; smiling, tearing up, and crying of heartbreak, as we follow along with Doretta to find peace within and hope for a future in the midst of a broken heart waiting and prepared to heal. I highly recommend Letters of Comfort to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Edward Arrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this new story about the friendship of Doretta and Eleanor. Previously, Doretta had written letters to Eleanor as Eleanor was facing some very difficult times with her young husband. Now the tables are turned and Doretta is struggling after the death of her soon-to-be husband in a buggy accident. Only two days before their wedding, William had a surprise to share with his fiancée, Doretta. However, they never made it. Doretta is devastated when she awakens from a coma to learn that William died and was buried while she was out of it in the hospital. That would be a terrible blow for anyone to take. To realize she never got to say goodbye makes the whole situation almost unbearable. Will the letters from her friend Eleanor help her through the depression and the loss she is unable to shake the way her letters helped Eleanor? What an awful thing for a young woman in the prime of life to experience. Feeling completely forsaken, although her family and friends are trying every way they know how to help her overcome the depression, Doretta keeps blocking everyone except her parents and siblings from her life. A promise to William has a significant bearing on the way Doretta handles matters. The author shares some valuable life lessons in this Amish story that are good for everyone.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the “Friendship Letters” Series by Wanda E. Brunstetter. I was really into reading this book because it deals with Doretta Schwartz losing her fiancé, William and William’s twin brother Warren. Doretta is dealing with depression, anger and just doesn’t seem to care about anything around her anymore. Warren is also grieving but also trying to stay strong for his parents and being a friend to Doretta when she just keeps turning him away. Her friend Eleanor, who has married and moved to another state, keeps writing letters to Doretta showing her support and writing scripture from the Bible hoping to get Doretta out of her depression and to cheer her up but to no avail. While Warren is grieving on his own, he has opened a health store that he and his brother were supposed to start and open together. Eventually, he has asked to hire Doretta part time to help him in the store because the help he has is not working out to his standards. It kind of helped Doretta out somewhat. The book is about dealing with depression, struggles, friendship and losing faith in God but in the end, it all comes back and leaning on God to help you deal with these struggles. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing but was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.