What do you think?
Rate this book
The Friendship Letters #1
Letters of Trust
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 feeling and struggles helps Doretta and two of her best friends through the darkest challenges of their lives.
A Simple Letter Carries Inspiration for Healing
Life is good on their Pennsylvania Amish farm for newlyweds Vic and Eleanor Lapp—until the day Vic’s youngest brother drowns in their pond and Vic turns to alcohol to numb the pain. Things get so bad that Vic loses his job and their marriage is coming apart. Eleanor is desperate to help her husband and writes letters to her friend, Doretta, living in Indiana for advice. The trust Eleanor places in her friend and the gentle words she receives in return are a balm for even darker days to come in this first book of The Friendship Letters series by New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.
A Simple Letter Carries Inspiration for Healing
Life is good on their Pennsylvania Amish farm for newlyweds Vic and Eleanor Lapp—until the day Vic’s youngest brother drowns in their pond and Vic turns to alcohol to numb the pain. Things get so bad that Vic loses his job and their marriage is coming apart. Eleanor is desperate to help her husband and writes letters to her friend, Doretta, living in Indiana for advice. The trust Eleanor places in her friend and the gentle words she receives in return are a balm for even darker days to come in this first book of The Friendship Letters series by New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2023
87 people are currently reading
1559 people want to read
About the author
Wanda E. Brunstetter
216 books2,334 followersNew York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
May 18, 2023
Oftentimes in the midst of difficulties, people feel alone in their struggles and at a loss for acceptable answers or an agreeable resolution. These are also the times when we most need to remember that nothing needs to faced alone; we can confide in trusted friends and take our troubles to God in prayer.
Eleanor and Abe’s story shows the good and bad times in life and marriage, and that prayer can bring us through those bad times. Eleanor also chose wisely when confiding in a close friend. Her friend not only offered support and a listening ear, but also shared Eleanor’s values and beliefs making her support and advice especially valuable.
I did find this slow to get to the action; there was a bit too much background information that could have been condensed. I also thought the letters would play a more prominent role. These two dislikes are minor as I found much to like.
I value the overall Christian message and relevant Bible verses sprinkled throughout, as well as the counsel to be a good testimony to others at all times. I appreciate the suggestion (and reminder) of the many reasons for prayer. We can pray for wisdom, guidance, and patience as we face our challenges, and for gratitude as each day brings about new peace and understanding. Abe’s story also provided insight into how and why people become addicted and the justifications that make them deny there's a problem. Resources for alcoholics and their family members are mentioned. The author's note tells why she wrote this book and again mentions resources for help with your own or someone else's alcoholism and addiction.
A thoughtful faith-based approach to a difficult topic. Worth the read as we should all extend and receive the very same grace, mercy, and compassion.
Eleanor and Abe’s story shows the good and bad times in life and marriage, and that prayer can bring us through those bad times. Eleanor also chose wisely when confiding in a close friend. Her friend not only offered support and a listening ear, but also shared Eleanor’s values and beliefs making her support and advice especially valuable.
I did find this slow to get to the action; there was a bit too much background information that could have been condensed. I also thought the letters would play a more prominent role. These two dislikes are minor as I found much to like.
I value the overall Christian message and relevant Bible verses sprinkled throughout, as well as the counsel to be a good testimony to others at all times. I appreciate the suggestion (and reminder) of the many reasons for prayer. We can pray for wisdom, guidance, and patience as we face our challenges, and for gratitude as each day brings about new peace and understanding. Abe’s story also provided insight into how and why people become addicted and the justifications that make them deny there's a problem. Resources for alcoholics and their family members are mentioned. The author's note tells why she wrote this book and again mentions resources for help with your own or someone else's alcoholism and addiction.
A thoughtful faith-based approach to a difficult topic. Worth the read as we should all extend and receive the very same grace, mercy, and compassion.
March 7, 2023
Author Wanda Brunstetter has written a heart felt and moving book that centers on living with an alcoholic. It’s a story about a young Amish married couple who recently suffered a terrible loss in their family. Guilt points its finger at the young man making him feel he is to blame for this tragedy to his family member. The result is devastating when he turns to alcohol to get relief from the constant guilt he lives with. Though he tries to control it the alcohol soon is controlling him. This book centers on the couple’s life before and after the tragedy and the effects it had on their lives. Letters of Trust is a story about Vic and Eleanor Lapp’s early years of marriage and how they managed to live with each other when alcoholism became the controlling factor in their marriage.
My heart ached for this young couple who went through so much when the unexpected happened. This book tore at my emotions and I found it to be a learning experience to read about what alcohol addiction can do to a person and a family. The characters were so realistic that I felt like the story was real instead of fiction. It was beautifully written and the Author writes with the knowledge of how alcoholism can affect the lives of those living with loved ones who are controlled by it. This is one of the best books that Wanda Brunstetter has written and I highly recommend it.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction , Christian Fiction and fans of the Author.
This book is scheduled to be released on 3/1/23.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
My heart ached for this young couple who went through so much when the unexpected happened. This book tore at my emotions and I found it to be a learning experience to read about what alcohol addiction can do to a person and a family. The characters were so realistic that I felt like the story was real instead of fiction. It was beautifully written and the Author writes with the knowledge of how alcoholism can affect the lives of those living with loved ones who are controlled by it. This is one of the best books that Wanda Brunstetter has written and I highly recommend it.
I recommend this book to readers of Amish Fiction , Christian Fiction and fans of the Author.
This book is scheduled to be released on 3/1/23.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
dnf
November 14, 2023This is an Amish Fiction book, and this is the first book in the Friendship Letters series. I really did not like or connect to any of the characters in this book. I feel so many things were over done or over exaggerated at the start of this book which I really hate when books do that. Vic was pushed as a not so great guy every chance the author could, and I also feel alcohol was pushed before it became a problem with any of the characters. I was so sick of hearing about alcohol before the second chapter of the book was done. It would have been better if alcohol was not made a thing until it became a thing. I have seen people heal painful events in their lives with alcohol, but they did need or even talk about it before it happened. I ended up DNFing this book because I really did not like the first part of this book. In fact the first part of this book made my blood boil. I cannot put into words how much I hated the first part of this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
January 17, 2023
Letters of Trust is the first book in a new series by Wanda Brunstetter and it is fantastic. It’s not your typical Amish book where the youth gather for singings which is fine but this book has more depth, real life challenges and is one where you root or the characters to overcome whatever they may face. In the case of newlyweds Vic and Eleanor Lapp, their problems run deep and they are left with grief and despair after the loss of a beloved child.
In the darkest of times, Vic turns to alcohol which leads to lies and the loss of his job. I must commend Eleanor for her strength and love as she attempts to save her husband and their marriage. This storyline is well-written, heart wrenching and personal to the author. I am eager to read the entire series. I highly recommend to readers of well-written, page turning Christian fiction.
I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
In the darkest of times, Vic turns to alcohol which leads to lies and the loss of his job. I must commend Eleanor for her strength and love as she attempts to save her husband and their marriage. This storyline is well-written, heart wrenching and personal to the author. I am eager to read the entire series. I highly recommend to readers of well-written, page turning Christian fiction.
I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
February 23, 2023
Do you still write letters or do you have a pen pal? This new series by Brunstetter is one you are going to want to sit back and enjoy.
You can never go wrong with a simple Amish read.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
You can never go wrong with a simple Amish read.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
February 10, 2023
I Will not finish the book, not because I dis not like it. But the subject it raised, hit to close to home.
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
February 23, 2023
Wow.
What an incredible book and excellent start to Wanda E. Brunstetter's new series.
I've read several Amish authors and novels (which I love), but none like this before. This book was heartbreaking and emotionally rending, yet beautiful, touching and unforgettable. Honestly, it's the best Amish book I've read in a long time, possibly ever.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants an unforgettable, impossible to stop reading, beautiful story of loss, commitment, redemption and love.
What an incredible book and excellent start to Wanda E. Brunstetter's new series.
I've read several Amish authors and novels (which I love), but none like this before. This book was heartbreaking and emotionally rending, yet beautiful, touching and unforgettable. Honestly, it's the best Amish book I've read in a long time, possibly ever.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants an unforgettable, impossible to stop reading, beautiful story of loss, commitment, redemption and love.
April 21, 2023
I loved that the author tackled the hard but very real topic of addiction that can affect anyone no matter their background or religion. In this story the addiction was alcoholism but the storyline is applicable to all forms of addiction. I loved the realistic view behind the curtains of the impact addiction has on the individual and especially the family. The more we bring this topic into conversation, the more it can be acceptable to seek healing and help by those impacted. And hopefully anyone dealing with a loved one who is addicted has a friend like Eleanor who they can share their struggles with as having a support system is so critical. Well written and timely.
January 4, 2023
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
I was very touched with this story because it was so personal to the writer Wanda Brunstetter and to anyone who has been touched by alcoholism. There is shame, stress, abandonment, and the family breaks down. However, in all that, there is hope.
Vic and Eleanor Lapp have just gotten married. Eleanor left her Amish community and is starting with her kind and playful husband Vic. Eleanor's family has some reservations about her new husband but are supportive of their daughter. When a tragedy strikes Vic's family and Vic blames himself for what happened, he turns to drinking. Drinking is not new has he dabbled into it before his baptism, but with his despair, it grabs him and puts him in a darker place. Eleanor is not blind to what is happening to her husband but she is living a land mine of emotions that have not been dealt with.
I really felt the pain of what this young couple was going thru. Vic's pain and not letting go and being able to forgive himself. His shame and the cycle of not being able to conquer his sin. It was not his to conquer but keeping himself in isolation and secretive, he drove himself deeper. Eleanor of not giving up on her husband and getting the help she needed was key. It took rock bottom for Vic to get the help he needed and God uses the darkest pit when we surrender. We always think we got this. I hope if you are a fan of Amish life, you will grab this one. You will be blessed with its honesty.
A special thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
I was very touched with this story because it was so personal to the writer Wanda Brunstetter and to anyone who has been touched by alcoholism. There is shame, stress, abandonment, and the family breaks down. However, in all that, there is hope.
Vic and Eleanor Lapp have just gotten married. Eleanor left her Amish community and is starting with her kind and playful husband Vic. Eleanor's family has some reservations about her new husband but are supportive of their daughter. When a tragedy strikes Vic's family and Vic blames himself for what happened, he turns to drinking. Drinking is not new has he dabbled into it before his baptism, but with his despair, it grabs him and puts him in a darker place. Eleanor is not blind to what is happening to her husband but she is living a land mine of emotions that have not been dealt with.
I really felt the pain of what this young couple was going thru. Vic's pain and not letting go and being able to forgive himself. His shame and the cycle of not being able to conquer his sin. It was not his to conquer but keeping himself in isolation and secretive, he drove himself deeper. Eleanor of not giving up on her husband and getting the help she needed was key. It took rock bottom for Vic to get the help he needed and God uses the darkest pit when we surrender. We always think we got this. I hope if you are a fan of Amish life, you will grab this one. You will be blessed with its honesty.
A special thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
January 15, 2023
Many thanks to Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter.
This is a compelling story written about a subject that is close to the heart of the author, alcoholism, although it can strike any person or family, Amish or English.
Vic and Eleanor Lapp are a newly married couple who has moved from her hometown to Pennsylvania to be closer to Vic’s family and where he could get a good job.
Life is good for this young couple until tragedy strikes. Vic’s youngest brother dies of drowning and Vic feels responsible and turns to alcohol for comfort. The struggles are real for this family and we live each heart wrenching moment.
Eleanor begins writing her friend, Doretta, who she loves and trusts will her most guarded secret. With each of Doretta’s , Eleanor is encouraged to keep on keeping on and trust in God.
The characters are compelling and realistic. The story is well written and perhaps the most moving and realistic of all of Wanda Brunstetter’s book.
The book is to be released March 1, 2023, and receives a 5-star rating from me. Opinions are my own, and Barbour Publishing did not require me to give a positive review.
This is a compelling story written about a subject that is close to the heart of the author, alcoholism, although it can strike any person or family, Amish or English.
Vic and Eleanor Lapp are a newly married couple who has moved from her hometown to Pennsylvania to be closer to Vic’s family and where he could get a good job.
Life is good for this young couple until tragedy strikes. Vic’s youngest brother dies of drowning and Vic feels responsible and turns to alcohol for comfort. The struggles are real for this family and we live each heart wrenching moment.
Eleanor begins writing her friend, Doretta, who she loves and trusts will her most guarded secret. With each of Doretta’s , Eleanor is encouraged to keep on keeping on and trust in God.
The characters are compelling and realistic. The story is well written and perhaps the most moving and realistic of all of Wanda Brunstetter’s book.
The book is to be released March 1, 2023, and receives a 5-star rating from me. Opinions are my own, and Barbour Publishing did not require me to give a positive review.
June 17, 2023
Such a good story! Hits hard topics directly with grace and faith!
February 24, 2023
Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter is the beginning of The Friendship Letters. Letters of Trust is different from other Amish books that I have read. It delves into the topic of alcolhism and how it affects a person’s life as well as those close to him. I thought the story was well-written with realistic, developed characters. I enjoyed getting to know Eleanor and Vic Lapp as well as their family and friends. I admired Eleanor’s fortitude and her deep faith. She prayed often for assistance in dealing with her troubled, grief-stricken husband. The story is one that will tug at your heartstrings. It is wonderful to see how family and friends come together during the good times and the bad. Eleanor may have been reluctant to air her dirty laundry, but she had people to turn to when she needed guidance. I enjoyed the correspondence between Eleanor and her friend, Doretta. I like how Eleanor created cards. She went out of her way to make them special. It is a shame that letter writing is becoming a thing of the past. Faith is beautifully woven into the story. Eleanor will need her family, friends, and faith to get through this dark time. We get to see that God is always with us. We may not understand His ways nor what He is trying to teach us, but the challenging situations will make us stronger and wiser. I found Letters of Trust to be a compelling, emotional tale. I am looking forward to reading the next book in The Friendship Letters. Letters of Trust is a poignant tale with contented newlyweds, a dynamic dog, a deleterious driver, a devastating death, destructive deeds, and profound prayers.
February 3, 2023
I was trying hold off until publication date but I just couldn't help myself. Wanda's books are always so good!
Even with tough subjects such as alcoholism. I thought Brunstetter has done a wonderful job with it.
I also like how she used prayer for guidance because sometimes it does take something bad to happen tonwake up a person.
My grandfather was such a person. It took a heart attack for him to quit. I felt bad for my grandmother.
I'm so thankful that I never knew that side of him.
I'm so glad that Brunstetter wrote this story! I hope that it blesses many people like it has me.
It's a reminder that God is always near no matter what. He is called Wonderful for a reason.
Elenoar is an amazing woman. She's my heroine.
I read late into the night to finish this novel. Now I'm sad that it's finished.
I didn't like Tom from the get go because I thought he was a bad influence. Now I'm sure he is.
Who I really admired and appreciated was the parents on both sides! Wow!
This was just such a good story!
I'm looking forward to Doretta's story.
5 stars for a well written story.
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.
Even with tough subjects such as alcoholism. I thought Brunstetter has done a wonderful job with it.
I also like how she used prayer for guidance because sometimes it does take something bad to happen tonwake up a person.
My grandfather was such a person. It took a heart attack for him to quit. I felt bad for my grandmother.
I'm so thankful that I never knew that side of him.
I'm so glad that Brunstetter wrote this story! I hope that it blesses many people like it has me.
It's a reminder that God is always near no matter what. He is called Wonderful for a reason.
Elenoar is an amazing woman. She's my heroine.
I read late into the night to finish this novel. Now I'm sad that it's finished.
I didn't like Tom from the get go because I thought he was a bad influence. Now I'm sure he is.
Who I really admired and appreciated was the parents on both sides! Wow!
This was just such a good story!
I'm looking forward to Doretta's story.
5 stars for a well written story.
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.
January 7, 2023
Letters of trust is a very well written Amish romance. Good plot and character dynamics. If you enjoy Amish fiction I recommend this book.
February 21, 2023
Letters of Trust is a difficult, emotional story about alcoholism, family and faith. I’m not sure I could say I enjoyed it but the topic is certainly an important one. Depression and alcoholism impact so many families in such profound ways. Those who love Wanda Brunstetter stories will find this a bit different than many of her others but worth reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour for the opportunity to read for honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour for the opportunity to read for honest review.
March 24, 2023
Letters of Trust is Brunstetter's first book in the new Amish Friendship Letters series. It's different from most Amish novels that I've read in that it tackles the difficult subject of alcoholism.
To me, the first half of this book was pretty slow, but then the pace picked up, and it was hard for me to put it down. Forgiveness of self and others is a key theme that runs through this story.
To me, the first half of this book was pretty slow, but then the pace picked up, and it was hard for me to put it down. Forgiveness of self and others is a key theme that runs through this story.
September 18, 2023
I have read a few of the authors book and enjoyed them but not this one. The characters were just unlikable and the book as a whole was just dull and hard to get through. Way to much repetitiveness in the dialogue. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book before it hits the stores. I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and their stories. The story itself dealt with alcoholism and faith. I would highly recommend it.
January 27, 2023
Letters of Trust by Wanda E Brunstetter – Difficult Topic Handled with Care
Author Wanda E. Brunstetter has become one of my favorite writers. I appreciate that her books are clean, without profanity and sexual immorality, and that the characters are more fully developed. That’s why I wanted to read her newest book Letters of Trust.
This book is quite different from any other story I’ve read by this author. The subject is more difficult and a bit darker. When I think of the Amish community, I don’t think of alcoholism. Wanda explained that she had Amish readers request that she write a story that deals with alcoholism. Sadly, alcohol abuse has impacted their communities as well. The story also had a personal touch because alcoholism has touched Wanda’s life though a family member.
Letters of Trust tells the story about newlyweds Vic and Eleanor Lapp who are moving to Vic’s home state of Pennsylvania where his family lives. Other than Vic and his family, Eleanor had no family or friends there. Eleanor loves Vic and wants to support his decision to move back home. Like any newlywed couple the first year of marriage can be a challenge. Eleanor keeps in touch with family and friends through letters.
Vic is employed by an English man and is surrounded by English workers as well. Vic finds himself under regular pressure by a coworker to drink alcohol. He’s able to resist until a crisis breaks down his resolve to not drink alcohol. Alcohol had been an issue in his youth, before he had committed himself to the Amish community and church. Now Vic chooses not to resist the draw of alcohol.
Like every other sin, alcoholism and drinking to excess, doesn’t just impact the one who is drinking. Vic’s drowning his sorrow impacted his marriage, his family, his job, and most importantly his faith.
Will Eleanor find support and wise counsel from her dear friend and family? Will she have the wherewithal to remain in her marriage and help her husband? Will she be strong enough to acknowledge the truth, get wise counsel, and the help and support she needs? What will it take to wake Vic up to the truth that alcohol is destroying his life and his marriage? Will he realize it before it’s too late?
Something I would like to have seen, especially since faith is an integral part of the story and character’s lives, is to see alcoholism in light of the truth of Scripture. Secular society calls alcoholism a disease, but a Christian believer knows it is a sin. There may be some beneficial secular programs to help the alcoholic and their family. But for a Christian believer, first and foremost, we need to recognize our sin and repent. Like all sin, God has provide a way for us to be forgiven through Christ Jesus. If this had been a secular story, I would not have had that expectation.
Something that flowed from the aspect of faith and seeing a character caught up in sin, was Vic a true Christian? I don’t have good understanding of the Amish faith. But I wondered if there is some measure of legalism? Is a person considered a true believer as long as he complies with the rules of the Amish community? What is a warning sign that a person’s outward confession is not genuine? Would an Amish Christian be concerned about their witness and testimony to an unbelieving coworker?
I would like to have seen the faith aspect of alcoholism dealt with, in addition to the practical steps recommended by the secular world. I liked that Vic’s parents had a realistic understanding of their son and didn’t try to make excuses for his choices and behavior.
If you like Wanda E. Brunstetter’s writing, or have an interest in the topic of alcoholism, you may want to read Letters of Trust. This was a hard book to read because of the subject matter and the fact that too many lives are impacted by alcoholism. I appreciate that the author tackled this painful topic.
I would like to thank Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complementary copy of Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
Author Wanda E. Brunstetter has become one of my favorite writers. I appreciate that her books are clean, without profanity and sexual immorality, and that the characters are more fully developed. That’s why I wanted to read her newest book Letters of Trust.
This book is quite different from any other story I’ve read by this author. The subject is more difficult and a bit darker. When I think of the Amish community, I don’t think of alcoholism. Wanda explained that she had Amish readers request that she write a story that deals with alcoholism. Sadly, alcohol abuse has impacted their communities as well. The story also had a personal touch because alcoholism has touched Wanda’s life though a family member.
Letters of Trust tells the story about newlyweds Vic and Eleanor Lapp who are moving to Vic’s home state of Pennsylvania where his family lives. Other than Vic and his family, Eleanor had no family or friends there. Eleanor loves Vic and wants to support his decision to move back home. Like any newlywed couple the first year of marriage can be a challenge. Eleanor keeps in touch with family and friends through letters.
Vic is employed by an English man and is surrounded by English workers as well. Vic finds himself under regular pressure by a coworker to drink alcohol. He’s able to resist until a crisis breaks down his resolve to not drink alcohol. Alcohol had been an issue in his youth, before he had committed himself to the Amish community and church. Now Vic chooses not to resist the draw of alcohol.
Like every other sin, alcoholism and drinking to excess, doesn’t just impact the one who is drinking. Vic’s drowning his sorrow impacted his marriage, his family, his job, and most importantly his faith.
Will Eleanor find support and wise counsel from her dear friend and family? Will she have the wherewithal to remain in her marriage and help her husband? Will she be strong enough to acknowledge the truth, get wise counsel, and the help and support she needs? What will it take to wake Vic up to the truth that alcohol is destroying his life and his marriage? Will he realize it before it’s too late?
Something I would like to have seen, especially since faith is an integral part of the story and character’s lives, is to see alcoholism in light of the truth of Scripture. Secular society calls alcoholism a disease, but a Christian believer knows it is a sin. There may be some beneficial secular programs to help the alcoholic and their family. But for a Christian believer, first and foremost, we need to recognize our sin and repent. Like all sin, God has provide a way for us to be forgiven through Christ Jesus. If this had been a secular story, I would not have had that expectation.
Something that flowed from the aspect of faith and seeing a character caught up in sin, was Vic a true Christian? I don’t have good understanding of the Amish faith. But I wondered if there is some measure of legalism? Is a person considered a true believer as long as he complies with the rules of the Amish community? What is a warning sign that a person’s outward confession is not genuine? Would an Amish Christian be concerned about their witness and testimony to an unbelieving coworker?
I would like to have seen the faith aspect of alcoholism dealt with, in addition to the practical steps recommended by the secular world. I liked that Vic’s parents had a realistic understanding of their son and didn’t try to make excuses for his choices and behavior.
If you like Wanda E. Brunstetter’s writing, or have an interest in the topic of alcoholism, you may want to read Letters of Trust. This was a hard book to read because of the subject matter and the fact that too many lives are impacted by alcoholism. I appreciate that the author tackled this painful topic.
I would like to thank Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complementary copy of Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
April 10, 2023
I loved this novel, one of the author’s best! It includes topics near and dear to the hearts of my family members. The characters are engaging and completely believable people who I came to care about. I learned more about the Amish community and how subtle differences between districts might impact someone new to the area. I saw faith in action, and secrecy with which people in general, even Christians, tend to cloak certain things. I felt invited into the lives of the Lapp family from the beginning, and am happy that this is the first of a new series so I can see results of seeds sown and changes made.
When Vic proposed to Eleanor, she knew that after they were married, they would move to Pennsylvania where his family lived. While it was hard, I admire Eleanor for how she behaved even when she desperately missed her family and best friend. Eleanor and Doretta, friends since childhood, promised to stay in touch by mail.
When disaster struck, Vic and Eleanor handled their grief in different ways. Vic retrieved a habit from before he was a baptized church member, recalling how beer took the edge off the bad feelings. When his drinking crossed the line, he didn’t recognize it. When Eleanor recognized it, she felt she had to keep it a secret for his sake. Vic tried to quit, showing how difficult it is, especially if one has a friend with a car who is willing to join him at the taverns. We especially see what it does to Eleanor. Without the loving suggestions of Doretta and those Eleanor finally went to for help, she may have never learned what she needed to do for herself and for Vic while still honoring their marriage. Even if he never stopped drinking.
Among the things that I liked or were very realistic are descriptions of the physical and emotional craving for a drink, and the apropos phrase, “before the alcohol had taken him hostage”. I like how many in the church are now more accepting of and helpful with the disease of alcoholism with resources to find help. I like how Susie, Vic’s mother, cared about both Eleanor and Vic, how strong her bond with Eleanor became, and how she did not take sides. The impact of Doretta’s faithful love and prayers for, and letters to, Eleanor was huge! I appreciated how Eleanor prayed to and thanked God about everything. I also liked the story behind the story and discussion questions.
As this series is about friendship letters and how they can minister to others, I admit that I miss going to the mailbox and getting something handwritten from a friend or loved one. I even miss writing those letters, and confess that I am not as good about it as I used to be, as I had once ministered to people through letters. For Eleanor, exchanging letters with Doretta was a lifeline of encouragement that celebrated blessings and got her through the darkest days.
This novel has great value to people of faith. I don’t see it as dark, but realistic yet filled with hope, with ways we can best help, love, and encourage others. Yes, there are dark times, but there are also times of joy and happiness, whether or not Vic stops drinking, that will still be the case. The faith shown by Eleanor and Susie is a brilliant, shining light, and I am eagerly looking forward to reading more of this series! I highly recommend it to those who appreciate well-written Amish Christian fiction highlighting faith, family, friendship, and love.
From a thankful heart: I won this novel from a Goodreads contest and the publisher. A review was not required.
When Vic proposed to Eleanor, she knew that after they were married, they would move to Pennsylvania where his family lived. While it was hard, I admire Eleanor for how she behaved even when she desperately missed her family and best friend. Eleanor and Doretta, friends since childhood, promised to stay in touch by mail.
When disaster struck, Vic and Eleanor handled their grief in different ways. Vic retrieved a habit from before he was a baptized church member, recalling how beer took the edge off the bad feelings. When his drinking crossed the line, he didn’t recognize it. When Eleanor recognized it, she felt she had to keep it a secret for his sake. Vic tried to quit, showing how difficult it is, especially if one has a friend with a car who is willing to join him at the taverns. We especially see what it does to Eleanor. Without the loving suggestions of Doretta and those Eleanor finally went to for help, she may have never learned what she needed to do for herself and for Vic while still honoring their marriage. Even if he never stopped drinking.
Among the things that I liked or were very realistic are descriptions of the physical and emotional craving for a drink, and the apropos phrase, “before the alcohol had taken him hostage”. I like how many in the church are now more accepting of and helpful with the disease of alcoholism with resources to find help. I like how Susie, Vic’s mother, cared about both Eleanor and Vic, how strong her bond with Eleanor became, and how she did not take sides. The impact of Doretta’s faithful love and prayers for, and letters to, Eleanor was huge! I appreciated how Eleanor prayed to and thanked God about everything. I also liked the story behind the story and discussion questions.
As this series is about friendship letters and how they can minister to others, I admit that I miss going to the mailbox and getting something handwritten from a friend or loved one. I even miss writing those letters, and confess that I am not as good about it as I used to be, as I had once ministered to people through letters. For Eleanor, exchanging letters with Doretta was a lifeline of encouragement that celebrated blessings and got her through the darkest days.
This novel has great value to people of faith. I don’t see it as dark, but realistic yet filled with hope, with ways we can best help, love, and encourage others. Yes, there are dark times, but there are also times of joy and happiness, whether or not Vic stops drinking, that will still be the case. The faith shown by Eleanor and Susie is a brilliant, shining light, and I am eagerly looking forward to reading more of this series! I highly recommend it to those who appreciate well-written Amish Christian fiction highlighting faith, family, friendship, and love.
From a thankful heart: I won this novel from a Goodreads contest and the publisher. A review was not required.
February 18, 2023
Well known for her Amish books, author Wanda Brunstetter begins a new series, The Friendship Letters. Based on the premise of friends writing letters to each other, I liked that Eleanor and Doretta could be open with each other, and honest about what was happening in their lives, including the way they were feeling. And yet sometimes they held back, which I suppose is natural.
Letters of Trust isn’t light and fluffy, but deals with tough subjects such as alcoholism and death of a child. We plainly see the effects of heavy drinking; the heartbreak, loss of trust, etc. Through it all, Brunstetter gives us hope that God will restore and heal if allowed.
If you’re looking for something a bit different in the Amish genre I recommend Letters of Trust.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Letters of Trust isn’t light and fluffy, but deals with tough subjects such as alcoholism and death of a child. We plainly see the effects of heavy drinking; the heartbreak, loss of trust, etc. Through it all, Brunstetter gives us hope that God will restore and heal if allowed.
If you’re looking for something a bit different in the Amish genre I recommend Letters of Trust.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
June 8, 2023
Good, wholesome content
Letters of Trust is a fairly typical Amish story with a AA tale woven into it. This story is much better than the last Amish story I read in that the behaviors were modest in keeping with the sect. There was more of the Pennsylvania Dutch language used with a brief description of its meaning to be gleaned within each example of the language. There was a bit of stress throughout, positive and negative things happening, and the theme of hope. Appropriate for all. Nice quiet theme.
Letters of Trust is a fairly typical Amish story with a AA tale woven into it. This story is much better than the last Amish story I read in that the behaviors were modest in keeping with the sect. There was more of the Pennsylvania Dutch language used with a brief description of its meaning to be gleaned within each example of the language. There was a bit of stress throughout, positive and negative things happening, and the theme of hope. Appropriate for all. Nice quiet theme.
March 2, 2024
This author is a wonderful Amish writer and i love everything she writes. This new series was really fun to read and I'm glad i had the chance. Fell in love with the character and the storyline. It put a smile on my face and when the world is pretty tough lately, this was a great book to escape into. I love Amish writing for that reason (among others).
February 11, 2023
This is the first book in this series. I can’t wait to read the next one. This story follows Eleanor and Vic who are married. Eleanor moves from Indiana to Pennsylvania. She writes letters to her best friend and her family about her life. Eleanor has to deal with alcoholism and depression with her husband due to an unfortunate tragedy. This story has love, faith, hope and forgiveness. A well written book on tough subjects. Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the E-ARC. This is my own opinion.
February 7, 2023
This book is the first book starting a new series called "The Friendship Letters". It's another awesome book by Wanda to start this series off. This book deals with the challenges of alcohol and death, and telss how the family members pull together to help deal with these challenges. One way of doing this was writing letters to each other, hence the series name.
Thank You to NetGalley for a free copy of this book.
Thank You to NetGalley for a free copy of this book.
March 4, 2023
First of all i want to thank Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Wanda Brunstetter is on of my favorite Amish writers and she did not let me down with this one either. The books topic of alcoholism is portrayed correctly .. Alcoholism tears families apart, unless the addict deals with this demon head on with God's help they will stay in the pit of addiction.
Vic (the main character) is dealing with a lot of guilt which leads him to drinking to drown out the pain and confusion. His new bride Eleanor is kind and loving, she tries to help her husband but he treats her pretty badly (in my opinion), but she doesn't give up on him, sending letters to her trustworthy friend Doretta. Doretta is there for her friend and prays for them.
Friends are important and so is family.
All in all i really enjoyed the book.
Wanda Brunstetter is on of my favorite Amish writers and she did not let me down with this one either. The books topic of alcoholism is portrayed correctly .. Alcoholism tears families apart, unless the addict deals with this demon head on with God's help they will stay in the pit of addiction.
Vic (the main character) is dealing with a lot of guilt which leads him to drinking to drown out the pain and confusion. His new bride Eleanor is kind and loving, she tries to help her husband but he treats her pretty badly (in my opinion), but she doesn't give up on him, sending letters to her trustworthy friend Doretta. Doretta is there for her friend and prays for them.
Friends are important and so is family.
All in all i really enjoyed the book.
February 23, 2024
I felt like there was too much "Amish" in this book for my liking. I really don't feel like they go up to their daughter and say "Daughter, you look ill today." Either leave the word "daughter" out or use their given name. It was more like an Amish tutorial than a book. Not impressed.
July 8, 2023
My first issue with this book is that it's entirely unrelatable for someone who has had a very close relation to the Amish church. The discussion of the main character moving to another state and "deciding" they should dress like the Amish in the area, would not be a choice. It is a requirement.
Most of the names were not Amish names at all, and the community described was not believable.
The characters were just wholly unlikable and the book as a whole was just dull and hard to get through.
So many random Amish words were thrown in willy-nilly with no intention to teach the reader what they meant. I understood them because of my past, but they were wholly unnecessary and weren't there to educate anyone on the language, so they seemed to serve no purpose whatsoever other than to be an oddity.
There was so much discussion of seeking outside counseling or attending AA meetings, etc.
The Amish don't go to counseling. They keep everything within the walls of the church and behind closed doors as much as possible.
While I appreciate the writer's desire to approach a subject that needs support and brought to light, it was poorly done and the choice to use an Amish couple was not the most effective.
Most of the names were not Amish names at all, and the community described was not believable.
The characters were just wholly unlikable and the book as a whole was just dull and hard to get through.
So many random Amish words were thrown in willy-nilly with no intention to teach the reader what they meant. I understood them because of my past, but they were wholly unnecessary and weren't there to educate anyone on the language, so they seemed to serve no purpose whatsoever other than to be an oddity.
There was so much discussion of seeking outside counseling or attending AA meetings, etc.
The Amish don't go to counseling. They keep everything within the walls of the church and behind closed doors as much as possible.
While I appreciate the writer's desire to approach a subject that needs support and brought to light, it was poorly done and the choice to use an Amish couple was not the most effective.
December 27, 2022
This is a touching story with real-life problems that in this case also affect the Amish in a similar way as those who are not Amish. Alcoholism is a problem to many and this was probably a difficult problem to write about. The author did it in a good way and through letters to her friend, Eleanor is able to find emotional help and calming help from her friend. As the problem increases she finds more help is needed but her husband is firmly against it. This is a touching story and I felt that the support and compassion that she received were very important to her healing as well as her husband's struggles. I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews