Charlotte Hubbard

Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge Tour by Charlotte Hubbard

20 Feb 2023 4 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Zebra Books

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

In the year since he lost his wife in a tragic accident, Lester Lehman has found healing and purpose—helping construct Dale Kraybill’s new bulk store, enjoying the Kuhn sisters’ hearty meals, and settling in a tiny, built-for-one lakeside house. Falling in love again is surely not on Lester’s mind. Yet despite his firm “no,” two available ladies have set their kapps on the handsome widower—in a boisterous rivalry that weaves mayhem among Gloria’s wedding festivities.

A welcome escape comes from a fresh-faced newcomer. Marlene Fisher disarms Lester with her witty quips on his romantic predicament, while her sparkling eyes inspire surprising thoughts of a shared future. But the heartbreak that brought Marlene to Promise Lodge runs deep, and the pretty maidel believes she’s not meant to marry. In a season of vows to love and honor, scripture holds the key to building their happiness together: love is kind, and above all patient. Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I am so thrilled to be reviewing another Promise Lodge read from author Charlotte Hubbard. This time the Promise Lodge community is excited and looking forward to two family gatherings at the lodge. Both gatherings are weddings and very close together, so there will be lots of fun celebrating at the Lodge. But I’m afraid one member of the community will not be happy with his visitors. Being a widower, Lester lives in a tiny house on the lake, because after all its just him, and he never expects to marry again. But when two ladies from his former community show up vying for his hand in marriage, the entire community suffers from their Rivalry. Newcomer Marlene Fisher enjoys her new apartment at Promise Lodge and plans to stay there the rest of her life. But sometimes plans change.

This story grabs you from the beginning and holds on until long after you finished reading. These Promise Lodge characters have a way of gripping your heart strings and never letting go. I enjoyed this story so much. And don’t think there’s no problems just because it’s Amish. This story certainly has its share of troubles throughout, but it all makes the story more fun. Charlotte Hubbard adds much detail to the story. I learned a lot about the Amish life and the Amish way of handling difficult situations. Another thing I always learn more about in Amish fiction is their food. Rosetta, Mattie and the other ladies keeping the Lodge goingdo a fabulous job. They all have different jobs but let me tell you the cooks can flat out lay out a table spread that will have you drooling all over. Never want for food while you are at the lodge. I found myself wishing more than once that there was a Lodge such as this in our area. What a fabulous place to live out your retirement years!

I could keep going on and on about the Lodge and the happenings there, but you need to read the book for yourself to really feel the fun. Don’t forget to check out Charlotte Hubbard’s Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge, which goes on sale tomorrow February20,2023. And be sure to check out the other Promise Lodge books as well. I know you will want to read them all.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Read an Excerpt

Fully awake now, Lester swung his feet to the dock. When he could get a word in edgewise, he needed to deflate Agnes’s high-flying hopes in a hurry, because in her vivid imagination, she was already standing before the bishop with him, repeating her wedding vows. As he opened his mouth to speak, however, another urgent female voice hailed him.

“Lester! Lester Lehman, it’s me—your Elverta! I read about Gloria’s wedding in the paper, so it seemed like the perfect reason to come and see you!”

Lester moaned. His sense of freedom, peace, and unencumbered living had just hit another serious snag.

As the national newspaper for Plain communities, the Budget was a wonderful way to keep track of far-flung friends and kin, but he suddenly wished that Gloria—and Rosetta Wickey, their community’s original scribe—hadn’t been quite so descriptive in detailing the Lehman family’s relocation. The tiny town of Promise, Missouri was out in the middle of nowhere, yet Agnes and Elverta had apparently followed every line of the newspaper’s weekly reports right to his doorstep.

As Elverta Horst, dressed in deep green, strode toward his dock, her tall, skinny, ramrod-straight body reminded Lester of a string bean. He knew better than to express that opinion, of course, because the woman he’d broken up with to begin courting his Delores had never been known for her sense of humor.

“Wh-who’s this?” Agnes asked him under her breath.

Never one to beat around the bush, Elverta stopped a few yards from the dock. She glanced at Lester before focusing on the flustered woman beside him. “And who might you be?” she demanded with a raised eyebrow.

Lester answered as indirectly as possible, because he knew these women would soon find out every little thing about one another. “Elverta, this is Delores’s best friend, Agnes Plank. She lives down the road from our former home in Sugarcreek,” he explained hastily. “And Agnes, this is Elverta Horst—”

“And I was engaged to Lester before he took up with Delores,” Elverta put in purposefully. “First loves are often the strongest, ain’t so? The flame may flicker through the years, but it never really goes out.”

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An Amish Christmas Star

26 Sep 2022 10 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An Amish Christmas Star by Charlotte Hubbard

by Charlotte Hubbard

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GENRE: Inspirational Romance (Amish)

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BLURB:

The crisp fragrance of pine trees and the warm spice of fresh cookies aren’t the only blessings that Christmas brings, and no one knows more about happy homecomings than three couples who are celebrating the greatest gift of all . . .

STAR OF WONDER

by

When Raymond Overholt comes to Promise Lodge, hoping to sell the barnboard signs he’s painted with stars and Christmas messages, spirited young Mennonite Lizzie Zehr is intrigued. But any courtship between them will face fierce opposition from the bishop of Raymond’s Old Order community—unless someone can convince him that at the heart of faith lies love . . .

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I am reviewing Charlotte Hubbard’s Story in this Christmas book, An Amish Christmas Star. Charlotte Hubbard’s story is Star of Wonder. This is Raymond and Lizzie’s story. They meet in the Promise Lodge bulk store where Lizzie really makes herself feel kind of strange when she goes overboard trying to get Dale, the store owner to hire Raymond to work in the store. Earlier Lizzie had spilled some candy while going overboard looking at Raymond. I think she has a problem. I really didn’t like Lizzie’s character at first, with her being so forward with Raymond. It was a bit embarrassing, to say the least.

But as it goes Raymond does work in the store. But that’s not all. There is a lot happening in the story, with the two living at Promise Lodge and working in the bulk store. There was much discussion about the Lodge and the people there, about the Bishop and his work there. And if I tell you more, it will ruin it for you. And I just don’t like doing that! This story is much to good for that. I encourage you to go grab a copy of An Amish Christmas Star and read Ms. Hubbard’s story, Star of Wonder. I also encourage you to check out the rest of the Promise Lodge Books written by Hubbard. They are a little different, Amish stories with a nice twist, and you will love this series.

Also in the An Amish Christmas Star, author’s Shellie Shepard Gray and Rosalind Lauer also have stories in this book. I will be writing reviews of these later this week and will link them all together so you can read them all. For now, check out the book and read Ms. Hubbard’s story.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Excerpt:

With the girl’s laughter still dancing in his head, Raymond Overholt tried to refocus his thoughts. If he didn’t convince Mr. Kraybill to sell his handmade plaques, his past several weeks of work would be for nothing. He’d have to return home to Coldstream with his tail between his legs, and face a long, dreary lifetime of milking his dat’s cows. Running a dairy was honest, necessary work but Raymond didn’t enjoy spending his early mornings and late afternoons in a smelly barn disinfecting udders any more than the Holsteins liked having him around. Worse yet, if he overslept, his older brothers did the milking and left the hosing down and mucking out of the stalls for him.

“If your customers like these plaques, I can make more,” he assured the steely-haired storekeeper. “I—I really appreciate having the chance to sell them here in your new store. Our bulk market in Coldstream is dim and overcrowded with merchandise, and even if the owner there had display space, he wants nothing to do with artwork. It’s that Old Order thing.”

Mr. Kraybill smiled knowingly. “Jah, Amish stores don’t usually carry much that appears English even if they have a lot of customers come in from outside their community to shop,” he acknowledged. “But your plaques carry a solid Christmas message—‘Wise men still follow His star’ and the lyrics to ‘We Three Kings’ are meaningful reminders about following our Lord’s holy light. Thanksgiving always kicks off the Christmas buying season, so we’ll give it a shot, Raymond.”

He hoped his grateful grin didn’t appear too adolescent—or desperate. Raymond gazed around the store, where a gal in a pleated Amish kapp was stocking shelves in the rear. A few early shoppers were pushing carts into the grocery section. “If you need some extra hands when things get busy these next few weeks, I’d be happy to help, sir,” he offered. “I’ve not worked in a store, but I’m gut at tallying sums and I’m a quick learner.”

“I’ll keep it in mind,” Kraybill said with a nod.

Raymond heard probably not in the storekeeper’s words, but he’d dealt with people’s dismissals before. If he’d dressed in dark broadfall pants with a plain shirt and suspenders—and if he’d chosen glasses with conservative frames—Kraybill might’ve taken him more seriously. But until he had no other choice than to submit to Old Order ways and join the church, Raymond was determined to wear clothing he liked.

“I’ll be back in a few days to see how my signs are selling,” he said. “Denki for giving me a chance.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 60 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in Omaha, NE with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

http://www.charlottehubbard.com

Facebook — http://www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

Buy Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Amish-Christmas-Star-Shelley-Shepard-ebook/dp/B09PJ348C8

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/an-amish-christmas-star-shelley-shepard-gray/1140825147

Kensington Publishing: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9781496734273/an-amish-christmas-star/

Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/An-Amish-Christmas-Star-Paperback-9781496734259/385381250

Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/an-amish-christmas-star/id1602867197

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

<a href=”http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e4345f4364“>Enter to win a $15 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>

Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

26 Jul 2022 5 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Welcome

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

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

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

Read an Excerpt

“What do you think of my new courting buggy, Jo?” he asked eagerly. “I ordered it from Saul Hartzler’s factory in December, and picked it up last night.”

Jo’s jaw dropped. A courting buggy! As they approached the open rig with a seat big enough for only two, her heart skipped like a happy schoolgirl’s. “It’s beautiful, Michael! Look at the way the wood shines. And what a wonderful shade of magenta you chose for your seat fabric.”

Michael smiled proudly. “I splurged on real leather, too,” he confided. “I figured this was the only time I’d be buying such a buggy, so I wanted it to be first-class for you, Jo. Wait here while I fetch my mare.”

Jo ran her finger along the buggy’s black wood, polished to such a shine that she could see her reflection in it. Deacon Saul was known for producing a quality product—and he hadn’t gotten wealthy by undercharging for his work, either. It wasn’t her place to ask Michael how many thousands of dollars he’d invested in his new rig. She and Mamm had considered ordering a new buggy a couple years ago, but when they’d heard what it would cost, they decided to make do with their old one.

“Gut girl—you’re doing fine,” Michael assured his horse as he approached Jo. “Josie, this is Starla, my new buggy mare.”

“Oh, aren’t you a pretty girl?” Jo said as she extended her hand. The mare looked young and angular, not yet in her prime. Her coat was a deep gray, with an irregular white star centered above her eyes. “You can keep her—and your new buggy—at our place!”

“Are you sure?” Michael handed Starla’s lead rope to Jo so he could hitch up his courting buggy. “I wouldn’t want your mamm to think we were overstepping her authority—”

“Starla can stay with us on my authority,” Jo interrupted. “If Mamm makes a fuss, I’ll take the blame. This is quite a surprise, Michael!” she added as she admired the way his black buggy and charcoal-colored mare looked together. Wasn’t it just like Michael to get all the details right?

He helped her up the steps and into his new rig. “I’m glad you see it that way, Josie-girl. I don’t intend to upset your mother, but I don’t plan on tiptoeing around her bad moods, either. We have a whole new life ahead of us—together. Shall we get on with it?”

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Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

26 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

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

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

Read an Excerpt

Jo Fussner gripped the pew bench in her excitement, thrumming with joy as she gazed across the center of the room at Michael Wengerd. As newehockers, they had front row seats at Molly and Marietta Helfings’ double wedding, which was about to begin now that the church service had concluded. In his black pants and vest, with a white shirt that glowed in the March sunshine that streamed through the window, Michael looked so handsome and elegant that Jo still wondered what he saw in a bulky, big-boned woman like her. But the love shining in his gray-blue eyes as he returned her gaze had the power to make her feel beautiful beyond belief.

Michael might’ve stayed in Queen City over the winter to make things easier for me, but his face still reflects his deep feelings for me—his belief that we should be together. It’s a miracle even more special than springtime, Lord, and for that I thank You!

When Bishop Jeremiah Shetler smiled at Marietta and Molly, the brides rose from the pew bench. In their dresses of deep teal, adorned with aprons made of crisp white organdy, they looked fresh and lovely as they centered themselves before the bishop with their grooms on either side of them. Pete Shetler appeared as nervous as Jo had ever seen him—until Molly’s reassuring smile brought the dimples back into his playful grin. Widowed nearly a year ago, Glenn Detweiler offered his elbow to slender Marietta, who took it with a dreamlike sigh as he placed his hand over hers.

Lydianne Christner, another of the twins’ side-sitters, leaned closer to Jo. “It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for!” she whispered happily. As the bishop’s fiancée, the pretty blond teacher was anticipating her own wedding in May, after school let out.

On Lydianne’s other side, redheaded Regina leaned forward to share her excitement, as well. “And your turns are coming!” she put in. “Last year at this time, who could’ve believed that every one of us confirmed maidels would find the man of her dreams?”

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I was do glad to take a trip back to morning star and see all of my friends there. I feel as though they are family. The Wengerd’s are back again, though Jo’s mamm pretty much ran the father/son duo off her property and out of her dawdy house. Jo’s mom tended to show herself, but it ends up she was hurting and couldn’t help her outburst. But does her attitude get better and does she still shoot off her mouth to everyone trying to help her?

This is an awesome addition to this series. I loved the Amish people and this special small community. I like how the Marketplace better pulls this community together, through their fellowship with each other when the shops are open, as well as the money it brings in to help each family, as well as they money the church fund is getting to help if there is a need. What a fun place to visit on Saturday’s and purchase your favorite items. Too bad we don’t have something like that In our area. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the phenomenally job Charlotte does in researching and writing this sweet series. I hope we are in for more of this series and all of these wonderful characters, but we need to wait and see. If you enjoy Amish reads, Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard is a must read for you. And don’t forget to check out all of the series. I’m giving ING this book Five Stars.

About the Author:

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Christmas Comes to Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

25 Nov 2021 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard

CHECK OUT CHARLOTTE HUBBARD’S NEW CHRISTMAS BOOK FOR A FABULOUS READ FOR THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY

BLURB:

Founded by five unmarried and enterprising Amish maidels, the new Morning Star Marketplace in small-town Missouri is preparing for a joyous Christmas season. But will the holiday also bring unexpected tidings of love?

Twin sisters Molly and Marietta Helfing are eagerly anticipating Christmas, with Marietta fully recovered from cancer and their noodle making business thriving. But Molly clearly misses having former tenant Pete Shetler and his rambunctious dog, Riley, around. Marietta can’t ignore Molly’s feelings for Pete—or the anxiety it stirs within her. Convinced her illness has made her unmarriageable, Marietta wonders what kind of life she’ll have if her sister marries—despite Molly’s promise never to leave her behind. . .

Then a fire destroys the home of Amish neighbors and Molly and Marietta graciously make room for widower Glenn Detweiler, his dat, and his two young boys. When Pete returns to help the family rebuild, Molly relishes her reunion with the handsome carpenter, while Marietta delights in mothering Glenn’s boys—and is surprised by her poignant bond with their quiet, brooding father. Soon everyone is wondering if this season will bring the blessing of a merry double wedding to Morning Star . . .

Excerpt One:

When she glanced at her sister, who was placing a strip of noodle dough into the roller, Marietta noticed a rare frown on Molly’s face. “Penny for your thoughts, sister.” Molly shrugged. “Sure is quiet without Riley and Pete around.” Marietta’s eyes widened at her sister’s wistful remark. For several months, Pete Shetler and his golden retriever, Riley, had rented one of their two dawdi hauses. Pete had done some much-needed maintenance around their farm—while his active young dog had mostly dug up Mamm’s flower beds, chewed the belts on their noodle making equipment, and found other trouble to get into. Pete had moved into his uncle’s house, however. Although Mar0ietta appreciated the return to a quieter routine without their renter, she sensed Molly had secretly adored the muscular blond carpenter and his rambunctious dog. “Maybe you should pay Pete a visit,” she suggested. “I bet he’d be tickled if you took over a pan of noodle pudding—” “Why would I do that?” Molly blurted. “It’s not as though anything would come of a relationship—even if Pete took the hint and asked me out.” “Why not?” Marietta paused, hoping to express her concerns carefully. “Just because I’ll never marry doesn’t mean you should forfeit a potential romance. Sure, Pete’s clueless most of the time but he seems trainable. And he’s awfully cute.” “Let’s not forget that Pete refuses to join the Amish church, so a romance would be pointless—even if he knew the meaning of the word,” Molly shot back. “Truth be told, I like Riley better than Pete, anyway. I intend to remain here on the farm with you, sister, like we’ve always agreed upon. We’re turning thirty-five next month, so why would I want to change my life—and my attitude—to accommodate a husband?”

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I am so excited to visit Morning Star and all of my favorite characters. There is romance in the air for some of the residents of Morning Star this time making this a fun and enjoyable book to read during the Christmas holiday season. The Morning Star marketplace is getting ready for Christmas with all of the booths filled with Christmas products everyone has made. But when a fire takes the home of one of their own. Their attitudes change and the community comes together to help. Widower Glenn Detweiler, having his share if hard times with loosing his wife and his mom, the Helfing sisters opened their home to Glen, his dad and two young boys and Marietta graciously takes over the care of Glenn’s two children. In the meantime, Pete is back with Riley as Pete helps build Glenn’s new house and Molly is more than happy to see them both again.

I love this series set in Morning Star, a small-town in Missouri. Author Charlotte Hubbard creates the most loveable and realistic characters for this series, I now think of them as my friends. I love that this book is chucked full of happenings in this small town. With the fire, and the community working to build Glenn’s new home, and the Marketplace going strong, there is so much happening, I couldn’t put the book down. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Can’t wait to read it. Christmas Comes to Morning Star is Five Stars for me. If you enjoy a good Christmas read, or a sweet Amish read, or both, you are in for a treat with this book.

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in Omaha, NE with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

www.charlottehubbard.com

Facebook — www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

Zebra Books •• ISBN-13: 9781420151831 •• ISBN-10: 1420151835

Print: •• Amazon •• Amazon UK •• Amazon Canada •• Barnes & Noble •• Books-A-Million •• Chapters Indigo •• IndieBound ••Kensington •• Target •• The Book Depository ••Walmart ••

Ebook: • Kindle •• Kobo •• Google Play •

Christmas Comes to Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

30 Aug 2021 3 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Welcome

BLURB:

Excerpt One:

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

www.charlottehubbard.com

Facebook — www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

Zebra Books •• ISBN-13: 9781420151831 •• ISBN-10: 1420151835

Ebook: • Kindle •• Kobo •• Google Play •

Giveaway

Charlotte Hubbard be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. In addition to the GC, the author would like to select one female reader’s name to use in her upcoming book, HIDDEN AWAY AT PROMISE LODGE.

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First Light in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

06 Jan 2021 6 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions

Founded by five enterprising Amish maidels, the new Morning Star Marketplace is a joyous success. What’s even more remarkable is the gift the business bestows upon each of these unmarried women—the unexpected blessing of love . . .

Leaving Flaud’s Furniture to teach at the community’s new school is a joy for Lydianne Christner. Old Order Amish, but new to Morning Star, she’s grateful that the congregation trusts her with the position—but she panics when handsome Bishop Jeremiah Shetler asks about the life she left behind. If anyone discovers the secret she’s hiding, she would, quite rightly, be shunned.

A widower, Bishop Jeremiah admires young Lydianne’s youthful energy and skill with the children. He’s also curious about her past, and the burden he senses on her heart. When his request to court her is refused, he’s stung, and lonelier than ever. It isn’t until a crisis prompts a tearful Lydianne to confess to him that Jeremiah is faced with a choice that requires all of his faith—and teaches them both that love and forgiveness go hand in hand.

Read an Excerpt

Hope fluttered like a butterfly in Lydianne Christner’s heart as she parked her rig in the pole barn just north of the new white schoolhouse. It was barely dawn and she was more than an hour early for her interview with the members of Morning Star’s school board, but she needed time to collect her thoughts and plan her answers to the questions she anticipated from the five men who would decide her future. It had been a spur-of-the-moment decision when she’d blurted out her wish to apply for the teaching position at the members’ meeting after church a week ago—but in the days since, Lydianne’s soul had reconfirmed her impulsive outburst.

She really wanted this position. The trick would be replying to the school board’s questions without hinting at the very personal reason she wished to become Teacher Lydianne. Did she stand a chance?

Sighing nervously, Lydianne stepped onto the front stoop of the schoolhouse and opened the front door.

Her heart fluttered at the sight of fresh white walls, low-maintenance tan flooring, and rows of new metal desks and chairs—the front row filled with shorter desks for the youngest scholars. The white board that covered most of the wall behind her awaited whatever instructions she would write with a variety of colored markers, and the built-in bookcases at the back of the classroom would soon hold a small library as well as a collection of textbooks. Sturdy tables along the side walls would provide space for class projects. A stairway led to the lower level, where the scholars would hang their coats and store their lunch buckets when they came in each morning.

The prospect of beginning a new job—a new life—in this fresh setting filled Lydianne with an even greater excitement than she recalled from when she was a scholar, buying paper and supplies as she anticipated each new school year. Even at twenty-three, she loved learning new things and she eagerly looked forward to passing on her enthusiasm for reading, writing, and arithmetic to—

“Ah—gut morning, Lydianne,” a familiar male voice pulled her from her musings. “Somehow I’m not surprised that you arrived early.”

About the Author:

Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/First-Light-Morning-Star-Maidels-ebook/dp/B086R84P2N/ref=sr_1_2

Amazon Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/First-Light-Morning-Star-Maidels/dp/1420151827/ref=tmm_mmp_swatch_0

Amazon UK Kindle eBook:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/First-Light-Morning-Star-Maidels-ebook/dp/B086R84P2N

Amazon UK Mass Market Paperback:
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Kobo eBook:
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Tour and giveaway for First Light in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

06 Jan 2021 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions

Founded by five enterprising Amish maidels, the new Morning Star Marketplace is a joyous success. What’s even more remarkable is the gift the business bestows upon each of these unmarried women—the unexpected blessing of love . . .

Leaving Flaud’s Furniture to teach at the community’s new school is a joy for Lydianne Christner. Old Order Amish, but new to Morning Star, she’s grateful that the congregation trusts her with the position—but she panics when handsome Bishop Jeremiah Shetler asks about the life she left behind. If anyone discovers the secret she’s hiding, she would, quite rightly, be shunned.

A widower, Bishop Jeremiah admires young Lydianne’s youthful energy and skill with the children. He’s also curious about her past, and the burden he senses on her heart. When his request to court her is refused, he’s stung, and lonelier than ever. It isn’t until a crisis prompts a tearful Lydianne to confess to him that Jeremiah is faced with a choice that requires all of his faith—and teaches them both that love and forgiveness go hand in hand.

Read an Excerpt

Hope fluttered like a butterfly in Lydianne Christner’s heart as she parked her rig in the pole barn just north of the new white schoolhouse. It was barely dawn and she was more than an hour early for her interview with the members of Morning Star’s school board, but she needed time to collect her thoughts and plan her answers to the questions she anticipated from the five men who would decide her future. It had been a spur-of-the-moment decision when she’d blurted out her wish to apply for the teaching position at the members’ meeting after church a week ago—but in the days since, Lydianne’s soul had reconfirmed her impulsive outburst.

She really wanted this position. The trick would be replying to the school board’s questions without hinting at the very personal reason she wished to become Teacher Lydianne. Did she stand a chance?

Sighing nervously, Lydianne stepped onto the front stoop of the schoolhouse and opened the front door.

Her heart fluttered at the sight of fresh white walls, low-maintenance tan flooring, and rows of new metal desks and chairs—the front row filled with shorter desks for the youngest scholars. The white board that covered most of the wall behind her awaited whatever instructions she would write with a variety of colored markers, and the built-in bookcases at the back of the classroom would soon hold a small library as well as a collection of textbooks. Sturdy tables along the side walls would provide space for class projects. A stairway led to the lower level, where the scholars would hang their coats and store their lunch buckets when they came in each morning.

The prospect of beginning a new job—a new life—in this fresh setting filled Lydianne with an even greater excitement than she recalled from when she was a scholar, buying paper and supplies as she anticipated each new school year. Even at twenty-three, she loved learning new things and she eagerly looked forward to passing on her enthusiasm for reading, writing, and arithmetic to—

“Ah—gut morning, Lydianne,” a familiar male voice pulled her from her musings. “Somehow I’m not surprised that you arrived early.”

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Lydianne Christner has been working at Flaud’s furniture since coming to Morning Star six years ago. She is excited about leaving the furniture company and starting her teaching position in the new school that Pete and the others built. She is still keeping her job at the Marketplace, started by five maidens. One of the men in the community losses his wife and is left with 2 small kids to take care of so he goes after Lydianne, but little does he know someone else is after her. But she sends them both on their way. What will become of this?

First Light in Morning Star is such a sweet Amish story. The Amish community in Morning Star is a small community with good people that are always willing to help others. But there are a few strong willed men that drove me crazy. But these men needed to be part of the story to give it a little flavor, and boy did they! I just felt so sorry for anyone in their line of accusations. But Bishop Jeremiah does a nice job taking care of the people of his church. I really like this Bishop, and I hope the real life Bishops are more like him. I like the way Bishop Jeremiah has a way of shutting down situations before they got out of hand. There are many other characters that make up this community. And then there is the interesting romance. You don’t want to miss the sweet and exciting story by Charlotte Hubbard.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

About the Author:

In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in Omaha, NE with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

Website: http://www.charlottehubbard.com
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

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Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

10 Aug 2020 6 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Welcome

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

When four maidels join forces to turn an abandoned barn into an Amish marketplace, the unmarried women have community in mind. But their fledgling enterprise promises to reap surprising rewards for each in turn, including the gift of unexpected love . . .

For Regina Miller, the new Morning Star Marketplace is a chance to share her secret work with the world—without revealing herself. Old Order Amish forbid the creation of art without purpose, but without a husband, Regina has been free to explore the joy of painting in her attic. Yet when Gabe Flaud’s curiosity leads him to speculate that Regina herself is the painter, the full weight of their community’s judgement falls on her shoulders. When Gabe stands up to defend Regina, questioning the Order’s restrictions, he reveals his own guilty secret and is shunned along with her. Forced to turn to each other for companionship, the young couple must learn to balance their own needs with their deep faith … and a love that will show them all things are possible.

Read an Excerpt

Regina entered her bedroom, stepped onto her large wooden trunk, and then opened the short, narrow door in the wall so she could climb the wooden stairs to the attic.

What if nobody wants my paintings, or worse yet, ridicules them? And what if folks figure out that I’m the artist—and that I’ve been living a lie for years? Best to nip this in the bud before I have to tell any more whoppers and get caught in them.

And yet, as Regina stood in the center of her secret studio, something deep inside her longed to display the work that so satisfied her soul. Nearly every evening, after a day of staining furniture, she spent a few hours in her hideaway, painting nature scenes.

Regina needed to paint the way most folks needed to eat and breathe. Her schoolteacher had complimented her artwork when she’d been young—and her parents had allowed her to take a short watercolor class at Koenig’s Krafts when she’d entered rumspringa. Dat’s brother Clarence was a preacher, however, so he’d been adamant about Regina joining the church at an early age. She’d secured her salvation at seventeen by being baptized, but she’d forfeited her innermost soul: in the Morning Star district, members were forbidden to create art for art’s sake because it was considered worldly and it called attention to the artist.

Regina had obediently tucked her paints and brushes into her wooden trunk, but she’d felt the loss of her art acutely. After her parents had died when a train collided with the bus they were all riding home from a wedding, Regina had kept herself sane by taking up her paints again, setting up her easel in the attic—out of sight when anyone came to visit. At twenty-two, she’d been rather young to live alone on her family’s small acreage but moving in with Uncle Clarence, Aunt Clara, and their young daughters would’ve killed her spirit forever.

Bishop Jeremiah had taken her side and had dropped in on her often until she’d gotten a little older. Martin Flaud had hired her because her father had been one of his finest craftsmen—and because Regina had proven herself to be more meticulous at staining and finishing than any of his male employees. She’d survived the rough, lonely times by working hard at the factory, and by surrounding herself with the quilts and curtains Mamm had made and the furniture Dat had built for their cozy home.

And so the last ten years had passed . . .

Regina had willingly given up any chance for marriage—because she couldn’t reveal her sinful pastime to a husband.

Gazing at the nature paintings that surrounded her on that Sunday afternoon, Regina felt torn. Why had God given her a keen eye and the talent to render woodland scenes, flowers, and wild creatures on paper if He wouldn’t allow her to paint pictures of His creation openly and without guilt?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

In this first book of the Maidels of Morning Star series is a fun and entertaining ook to read, just like all of Charlotte Hubbard’s books. This one is Regina’s story. 5 Maidels of Morning Star decides to sell their crafts out of an old barn that needed repairs, of course. So after permission from the powers that be in their Amish community the work started. And was finished.

Regina has be secretly painting pictures for a long time and wanted to sell them, do her booth was an anonymous one, thinking no one would know, but the Amish always find out.

Author Charlotte Hubbard writes an extra nice heartwarming story for her readers. I like the idea of selling all of their crafts in one big space. And these five ladies have plenty of energy to get the work done. I just wish I could have seen some of the beautiful crafts!! What I would give to stop at an Amish roadside store! First me, the characters seemes so realistic, they felt like family as I was reading. There was one of the ladies that was more outspoken, and sometimes she did get on my nerves, but we need these people in stories!! I like how Ms. Hubbard weaves all of the different issues and people together to make this great story. And a smooth ending. I think you should try this wonderful Amish read. I think you will enjoy it as much as I did!

About the Author:

Website http://www.charlottehubbard.com

Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

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Zebra Books

July 28, 2020

ISBN-13: 9781420145120

ISBN-10: 1420145126

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Light Shines at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

14 Apr 2020 12 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Welcome

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

For abandoned wife Annabelle Beachey, Promise Lodge is a refuge where she’s gained confidence and self-sufficiency. But she and the others are dismayed when newly arrived Bishop Clayton King claims the community is too progressive and sets out to change its ways. Worse, her husband, Phineas, returns, expecting her to give up her faith as he has. And he won’t leave Promise Lodge without her…

But little by little, Annabelle’s determination and new forthrightness make Phineas realize his mistakes—and truly hear his wife for the first time. Meanwhile, Annabelle finds herself feeling compassion—and even renewed love—for her newly humble, more caring husband. And as Bishop Clayton’s attempt to control Promise Lodge threatens everything its residents have built, Phineas and Annabelle must work together with unshakeable courage to save their new home—and their opportunity for forever happiness.

Read an Excerpt

As Annabelle Beachey gazed at the happy couple standing before Bishop Monroe Burkholder to exchange their wedding vows, she fought tears. During the four months she’d spent in an apartment at Promise Lodge, she’d become good friends with the bride, Frances Lehman, and she’d acquired a lot of respect for the groom, Preacher Marlin Kurtz. The love light on their faces shone as a testament to the devotion that had grown between them during their summertime courtship—a brilliant example of how God worked out His purpose through the lives of those who kept His faith, even after they’d been widowed.

Annabelle sighed with the rightness of it all. The women around her dabbed at their eyes as Preacher Marlin repeated his vows in an endearingly confident voice, gazing at Frances as though she were the only woman in the world. Folks here were still in awe because Marlin had bought back all the furnishings Frances had consigned to an auction in May, thinking she had to sell everything to get by because her first husband hadn’t left her with much.

My husband didn’t leave me with much, either. He just left me.

My Thoughts On This Book

My Rating: 5 of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I am more than happy to return to the Promise Lodge community in Missouri for the fifth book in this series. Promas Lodge is a place Amish people an come and stay until they get themselve to where they can afford to live on their own. This is definitely a place I would love to retire to, a place where you are with people that love you, and people you love to be around. The big moment this story starts out with is two of their very own are getting married after their pretty short courtship. The Lodge is filled with love and rejoycing, and lots of food to be eaten!
Author Charlotte Hubbard does a very nice job of capturing the details of the wedding so you feel like you are really there.

Life gets back to normal in the community, the shops open and everyone goes back to their regular routine. But but then a few twists enters the story, maybe some new folks joining the lodge? It is all in this beautifully written book by Charlotte Hubbard. If you have read her work before, you know the quality that comes with the read, and you are in for a treat with this one. If you have not read any of Ms. Hubbard’s books, now is the time to start! I encourage you to check out this fifth installment in this series. These books can be read as a stand alone, but much better to read in order, so check out the first four too!

About the Author:

Website: https://charlottehubbard.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.hubbard1

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/53342.Charlotte_Hubbard

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/charlotte-hubbard

Buy Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Apple Books: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Apple Books UK: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Apple Books CA: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

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New Beginnings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

26 Oct 2019 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Welcome

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes & Noble gift card via the Rafflecopter at the end of this post. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

My Rating 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Recently widowed after twenty years of marriage, Frances Lehman is only just tasting the freedom and opportunity that her Promise Lodge friends enjoy. So she’s not about to be pressured into marriage by her widowed brother-in-law, even if she and her daughter have no real means of support. Much more promising is her new friendship with Preacher Marlin Kurtz, though their respective families don’t see their relationship as proper . . .

When Frances suffers a serious injury, she’s determined to prove she can recover—and remain independent—without burdening Marlin. Now, with his steadfast belief in real love tested, Marlin’s hope is that Promise Lodge’s irrepressible residents can help him restore Frances’s joy—and that faith will show them a way to turn their fragile second chance into a blessed and abiding future together.

And don’t miss the first three books in the Promise Lodge series!

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I am so excited to take another grip to visit the ladies at Promise Lodge. It is exciting to see the many others who have joined ghis special group of Amish people. This is a beautiful story with its matching beautiful book cover. And as you see, there is a pie on the cover, and you will have pie in the story because two of the ladies in the community are owners of a pie bakery. And boy do those pies sound wonderful! The bakery is one of the many businesses in the unique community. I think my favorite is the tiny houses, and you can read all about them in this book.

Frances Lehman, her pushy and determined brother in law, and Preacher Marlin Kurtz are some of the main characters in this story about the Lodge. Frances lost her Bishop husband just a few short months ago and she is enjoying a bot of freedom. Not that she didn’t love her husband, but he was set in his own ways with his strong opinions, a bit like his brother. But now two men seemed to be after her hand in marriage. But Frances doesn’t make it easy for them. There are other budding romances floating around the Lodge and community, but I’ll save then for your reading enjoyment. As well as the other exciting things happening in this Promise Lodge story.

New Beginnings at Promise Lodge is another fun and entertaining story from the Promise Lodge Series. It seems each book gets better and better, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I love and appreciate Ms. Hubbard’s unique writing and the characters in this story are wonderfully created and develop so well as the story unfolds. This is a beautifully written story that will give readers several hours of entertainment, enjoyment and lots of fun. If you love Amish stories, this book is a must for you. If you haven’t read anything from Charlotte Hubbard, this would be a great book to start with! You just can’t go wrong with this author.

A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Enjoy an excerpt from “New Beginnings at Promise Lodge”:

Frances shaded her eyes with her hand, enthralled with what she saw. “It doesn’t seem like you and I have walked such a long distance, yet from here, the lodge and our homes look like part of a toy village.”

“We’ve come a long way,” Marlin remarked softly. “I’m glad you’ve walked with me, Frances. Our community has taken on even more of a glow because I’m seeing it through your eyes.”

The tone of his voice made Frances’s pulse thrum with an unusual sense of energy, as though the preacher had something on his mind besides the view.

We’ve come a long way.

# # #

Allen treasured Phoebe’s rapt expression and the closeness of her slender body as she leaned against him. He’d given her a gift by showing her Promise Lodge from this hilltop vantage point.

“What about that parcel of land behind the Lehman places?” she asked dreamily. “We’d have a beautiful view of the lake. What do you think, Allen? Should I ask Mamm if I can have it?”

Allen’s throat closed with a sudden case of nerves. He eased away from her, pretending to look at something near the lodge so she wouldn’t see how she’d startled him. Their relationship, which had felt so comfortable over the past week, now gave him the sensation that an invisible halter had been fastened around his head—and that Phoebe was holding the lead rope.

About the author: In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

Website: http://www.charlottehubbard.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.hubbard1

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

Kindle UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

Kindle Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

Kindle Australia: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11

iBooks UK: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11

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iBooks New Zealand: https://itunes.apple.com/nz/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge-charlotte-hubbard/1130055278?ean=9781420145137

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Charlotte_Hubbard_New_Beginnings_at_Promise_Lodge?id=bNqBDwAAQBAJ

Order Print

Zebra Books

September 24, 2019

ISBN-13: 9781420145106

ISBN-10: 142014510X

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X/

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X

Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X

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New Beginnings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

08 Oct 2019 4 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Welcome

Recently widowed after twenty years of marriage, Frances Lehman is only just tasting the freedom and opportunity that her Promise Lodge friends enjoy. So she’s not about to be pressured into marriage by her widowed brother-in-law, even if she and her daughter have no real means of support. Much more promising is her new friendship with Preacher Marlin Kurtz, though their respective families don’t see their relationship as proper . . .

When Frances suffers a serious injury, she’s determined to prove she can recover—and remain independent—without burdening Marlin. Now, with his steadfast belief in real love tested, Marlin’s hope is that Promise Lodge’s irrepressible residents can help him restore Frances’s joy—and that faith will show them a way to turn their fragile second chance into a blessed and abiding future together.

And don’t miss the first three books in the Promise Lodge series!

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Enjoy an excerpt from “New Beginnings at Promise Lodge”:

“We’ve come a long way,” Marlin remarked softly. “I’m glad you’ve walked with me, Frances. Our community has taken on even more of a glow because I’m seeing it through your eyes.”

The tone of his voice made Frances’s pulse thrum with an unusual sense of energy, as though the preacher had something on his mind besides the view.

We’ve come a long way.

# # #

Allen treasured Phoebe’s rapt expression and the closeness of her slender body as she leaned against him. He’d given her a gift by showing her Promise Lodge from this hilltop vantage point.

“What about that parcel of land behind the Lehman places?” she asked dreamily. “We’d have a beautiful view of the lake. What do you think, Allen? Should I ask Mamm if I can have it?”

About the author: In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

Website: http://www.charlottehubbard.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.hubbard1

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

Kindle UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

Kindle Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

Kindle Australia: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07MKX3NTT/

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11

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Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge-charlotte-hubbard/1130055278?ean=9781420145137

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Charlotte_Hubbard_New_Beginnings_at_Promise_Lodge?id=bNqBDwAAQBAJ

Order Print

Zebra Books

September 24, 2019

ISBN-13: 9781420145106

ISBN-10: 142014510X

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X/

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New Beginnings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

28 Aug 2019 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Welcome, Zebra Books

New Beginnings at

Promise Lodge

by Charlotte Hubbard

My Rating: 5 Stars

Promise Lodge, Book 4

New-Beginnings-at-Promise-Lodge

Spring blossoms with new life and new beginnings for the flourishing Amish community of Promise Lodge. And as a just-opened bakery sweetens the air with fresh-baked goodness, residents will find that change can be a most joyous test . . .

Recently widowed after twenty years of marriage, Frances Lehman is only just tasting the freedom and opportunity that her Promise Lodge friends enjoy. So she’s not about to be pressured into marriage by her widowed brother-in-law, even if she and her daughter have no real means of support. Much more promising is her new friendship with Preacher Marlin Kurtz, though their respective families don’t see their relationship as proper . . .

When Frances suffers a serious injury, she’s determined to prove she can recover—and remain independent—without burdening Marlin. Now, with his steadfast belief in real love tested, Marlin’s hope is that Promise Lodge’s irrepressible residents can help him restore Frances’s joy—and that faith will show them a way to turn their fragile second chance into a blessed and abiding future together . . .

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Another sweet trip to the Ladies of Promise Lodge. It’s exciting to see many others who have joined this special group,all having their own unique thing to bring to the community. There is a lot going on in this beautiful story. I love the beautiful book cover, and yes there is a pie story, even a pie business run by two Promise Lodge ladies. This is one of the many businesses in the unique community. I think my favorite is the tiny houses, and you can read all about them in this book.

Much of this book centers around Frances Lehman, her pushy and determined brother in law, and Preacher Marlin Kurtz. Frances lost her Bishop husband just a few short months ago and she is enjoying her freedom. Not that she didnt love her husband, but he was set in his own ways with his strong opinions. Bit now two men seemed to be after her hand in marriage. But Frances doesn’t make it easy for them. There are other budding romances floating around the Lodge and community, but I’ll save then for your reading enjoyment. As well as the other exciting things happening in this Promise Lodge story.

Author Charlotte Hubbard gives her readers another fun and entertaining story from her Promise Lodge Series. It seems each book gets better and better, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I love and appreciate Ms. Hubbard’s unique writing and the characters in this story are wonderfully created and develop so well as the story unfolds. This is a beautifully written story that will give readers several hours of entertainment, enjoyment and lots of fun. If you love Amish stories, this book is a must for you. If you haven’t read anything from Charlotte Hubbard, this would be a great book to start with! You just can’t go wrong with this author.

newproject_1_original

A UNIQUE PROMISE LODGE

RECIPE TO TRY

Sweet Banana Cornbread

This makes enough batter for an 8×8” pan or about 10 large muffins. Moist and tender! Yummy! Double the recipe to make a 9×13” pan.

2 ½ cups of Cornmeal Bulk Mix
1/3 cup sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 T vanilla
¾ cup mashed banana
½ cup milk
½ cup oil
2 eggs

Spray or butter an 8×8” pan or a 12-cup muffin tin. Preheat oven to 350º. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal bulk mix, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon, making a well in the center. In a large glass measuring cup or deep bowl, whisk the vanilla, mashed banana, milk, oil, and eggs until well blended. Pour the liquid mixture into the well of dry ingredients, stirring only until the batter is blended. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake an 8×8” pan for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Bake muffins 12-15 minutes, or until tops are domed and firm. Don’t overbake! Serve warm, or cool on a wire rack. After about 5 minutes, lift the muffins out of the tin.

Kitchen Hint: For a 9×13” pan of cornbread, double the recipe. Freezes well (use wax paper between layers).

And to find more delicious recipes from the Ladies of Promise Lodge go here: https://www.charlottehubbard.com/whats-cookin-at-the-sweet-seasons-bakery-cafe/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Naomi King Many moons ago—like, in 1983 while I was still a school librarian—I sold my first story to True Story magazine. This launched me into writing about seventy of those “true confessions” stories over the years, and I’ve been a slave to my overactive imagination ever since.

The next big step was selling my first historical romance in 1990, a Zebra Heartfire called Colorado Captive. I quickly sold five more in that genre. They’re all out of print now, but available from used bookstores or at Amazon.com and BN.com. I’ve brought them back in digital format with beautiful new covers, which you can see on my Historical Romances page.

After a long dry spell that entailed major changes in the publishing industry, I resurfaced in a new genre, with a new publisher, editor, and agent who were so excited about my Angels of Mercy series! These four faith-and-family stories are also out of print now, but available at Amazon as Kindle e-books. With Law of Attraction (The Love Secret), I moved into new territory once again—and once again the setting is a place I love to spend time: the Oregon Coast.

Being an author is great fun when you’re selling, but it’s best to have a hide like a rhinoceros and a spouse who gets a regular paycheck! Patience, persistence and just flat-out luck have given me this opportunity to reinvent myself yet again. Those angels I write about keep pulling me through, and are often my friends and family—but I owe a lot to the heavenly beings who bear me up on their wings, as well!

My stories invariably take on a life of their own, different from the way I’ve proposed them: I love it when unforeseen characters and plot twists come along, because they keep me guessing right along with my readers!

I often present workshops at conferences. I belong to Novelists, Inc. and American Christian Fiction Writers.

I love touring historic homes, trying new recipes, crocheting, and playing with my Border collie, Vera—although it’s humbling, having a dog smarter than I am! I’m an ordained Presbyterian deacon, and I devote a lot of time to singing in my church choir, ringing in bell choir, and being a substitute organist. I’m celebrating more than forty-two years with my husband, who—bless him—has never once suggested I get a real job!

A Mother’s Gift by Charlotte Hubbard Plus Giveaway

09 Apr 2018 18 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions, Kensington Publishers

ABOUT THIS BOOK

For Leah Otto, marrying Jude Shetler is a long-held dream come true. As a young girl, she was captivated by his good looks and talent as an auctioneer. When Jude, now a widower with three children, begins to court her, Leah doesn’t hesitate. Other men may not appreciate her tomboy ways, but Jude values Leah’s practical nature and her skill with the animals she tends, and both enter the marriage with joy and optimism.

Three months later, Leah feels as if her world is coming down around her. Her twin teenage
step-daughters, Alice and Adeline, are pushing boundaries and taking far too many risks, while five-year-old Stevie deeply misses his mother. Leah, more at ease in a barn tending her goats and chickens than in a kitchen, struggles with her housekeeping duties.

Then a baby is abandoned on their doorstep, and Leah must search her soul. Caring for little Betsy fills her with renewed purpose and the strength to begin pulling her family together. With Jude’s steadfast support, Leah finds that what she once thought of as a happy ending may be something even better—the beginning of a life rich in love, faith, and unexpected blessings.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Leah Otto, marrying Juda Shetler was just a huge mistake, according to everyone in their small Amish community. Leah would never get along with Jude’s twin teenage girls and his small son who misses his mammso much all he does is cries for her. But Leah was determined to marry this man that she loved dearly. And Jude was just as determined to make Leah his wife. But when Jude’s sneaky twin teens overheard a private conversation between Jude and Leah, Jude’s house was disrupted to the point that he didn’t know what to do, and Leah wished that she had listened to her mom when she tried to warn her how Jude’s twins would feel toward her.

Anout halfway through this awesome Amish story, I had no idea how Ms. Hubbard would untangle the mess called Jude’s household. I cried with Leah, and wanted to wring those twin girls’ necks! I was so glad when Leah finally broke through to little Stevie, and he started trusting her. And not only that, but Stevie was one smart five year old! And he didn’t mind telling what the twins told him, or what he overheard the twins say. I love this little one!

For me, this is my favorite so far from author Charlotte Hubbard. A bit different from most Amish books I’ve read. Leah wasn’t the usual Amish Housewife and Jude didn’t care what people thought of her working with her cows, goats, and other farm animals. One thing this story teaches us is that communication is so very important in a marriage or relationship. I loved the way Jude and Leah were able to talk through their problems and struggles, even though it was very difficult and embarrassing for them both at times. And it’s also scary for Amish parents to think of their kids as the go through their time of rumspringa. It’s a cruel world out there for someone who has been so sheltered, even to those who are not Amish. Leah and Jude’s strong faith in God got them through their trying times, and He will do the same for anyone. I appreciate Ms. Hubbard dealing with these issues in this story. And I hope if someone reading this book is going through struggles, Jude and Leah’s story will help them as they go through their difficult journey.

I received this book from Goddess Book Tours to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

To follow this tour click HERE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Charlotte Hubbard sold her first historical romance in 1990, and she’s been a slave to her overactive imagination ever since. As she writes, her stories invariably take on a life of their own, different from the way she proposed them: unforeseen characters and plot twists come along, and they keep her guessing right along with her readers!

Charlotte has lived in the Midwest most of her life. When she’s not writing, she loves touring historic homes, trying new recipes, crocheting, and playing with her Border Collie, Ramona. She’s a Presbyterian deacon, sings in her church choir, and plays in the percussion ensemble. She’s married to a fine man who–bless him–has never once suggested she get a real job!

Giveaway…..please click on link below to sign up for this giveaway!

One randomly chosen winner via rafflecopter will win a $50 Amazon/BN.com gift card.

A Simple Wish by Charlotte Hubbard plus Giveaway

25 Oct 2017 3 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Goddess Fish Promotions

Making rugs for the Simple Gifts store has taught Loretta Riehl that an unassuming pattern can reveal surprising depth. People, too, have a way of defying first impressions. Drew Detweiler came to Willow Ridge under a cloud, but the handsome craftsman has gained the community’s respect for his upholstery skills and commitment to making amends for his mistakes. As her new brother-in-law’s twin, he’s joining the family for dinners and Sunday visits, and Loretta can’t deny enjoying his attentions.

If only her dat were willing to let a little joy into his life. Cornelius Riehl grows sterner with each day, and Drew suspects there’s more to his moods than missing Loretta’s late mamm. Hoping to fulfill Loretta’s wish to live in a peaceful, happy home again, Drew sets out to learn the truth. It’s a journey that will bring to light painful realities—but also the chance to forge a new, honest, and loving future together…
October 9: Fabulous and Brunette
October 9: Sea’s Fire
October 10: Laurie’s Thoughts and Reviews
October 11: Hearts and Scribbles
October 11: Punya Reviews…
October 12: Maureen’s Musings – review
October 12: Nana Prah’s Blog
October 13: T’s Stuff – review
October 16: Long and Short Reviews
October 18: Amish Reader
October 19: The Reading Addict
October 20: Southern Gal Loves to Read
October 23: A Writer’s Life
October 24: Book Lover Promo
October 24: Rogue’s Angels
October 25: Miss Tina’s Snitz Pie Book Review
October 25: Splashes of Joy
October 26: Hope. Dreams. Life… Love
October 26: Vickie’s Kitchen and Garden
October 27: The Book Connection
October 27: Locks, Hooks and Books
October 27: Jennifer Macaire, Tell me a Story

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

A Simple Wish takes Readers back to the Reihl family and their drama in life. Especially with Cornelius and the secret life he was living. This story had a lot of main characters, which ended up mainly with Loretta and Drew. And there are Wyatt and Rebecca, who hopefully will have their own story since theirs was left unfinished, but a lot of attention was given to them in this book.

As usual, Charlotte Hubbard writes a fun and interesting story that will provide a few hours of entertainment. The Amish characters and lifestyle mixed with the Mennonite lifestyle gives the Amish more liberal opportunities. And I actually liked the leaders of the Amish church here, except for Cornelius, that is. And I really didn’t care for his outcome, especially since any other church member would have been thrown to the wolves. And I so much appreciated his daughters and son-in-laws standing up to him. I hope Cornelius’ actions are not the usual actions of Deacons or church leaders of the Amish. This is a really nice read, my only problem with it is that it is listed as Religious and Inspiration, and when a book is listed as such, yet has cuss words used casually, and especially taking God’s name in vain, it’s unacceptable for me. God’s name deserves to be used reverently. A copy of This book was provided by the author and Goddess Fish Promotions for me to read and review. The opinions here are mine only.

And to the Giveaway

Be sure to check out this giveaway!

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PUYB Presents…..Breath of Spring by Charlotte Hubbard

26 May 2014 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, PUYB Tours

PUYB Presents…..

Breath of Spring

by Charlotte Hubbard

Title: Breath of Spring
Author: Charlotte Hubbard
Publisher: Kensington
Pages: 352
Genre: Amish Romance/Inspirational

As a bright season brings a fresh start to Willow Ridge, Annie Mae Knepp feels she can never make peace with the past. Her disgraced ex-bishop father is furious that she’s has taken her five siblings to live with her. She’s never been truly at home in her faith…or believing in herself. And Annie Mae fears no man will want to take on the responsibilities she’s gladly shouldered. True, her quiet neighbor Adam Wagler has been steadfast and unshakable, helping her through her trials, but he surely couldn’t think of someone so lost as more than a friend. Believing she is unworthy because of her doubts, Annie Mae will find, in a moment of surprising revelation, that God can work impossible miracles—and that love makes all things new.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Breath of Spring is a refreshing book four in the Seasons of the Heart Series. It is nice reading about spring in an Amish community, and this little community in Willow Ridge was a calming place to be. But despite the spring feeling, Annie Mae has her hands full, since her mom passed away and her dad left, she was now mom to her siblings. And forget about getting married because no one would want a young 17 year old with a house full of kids, right?

I enjoy Charlotte Hubbard’s books so much, and this has been a most pleasant series to read. This is Annie Mae Knepp’s story. After starting work at the Sweet Seasons Bakery Cafe’, Annie Mae met Adam Wagler, and they begin to share each other’s secrets, but one thing Annie Mae didn’t need was romance. But they kept talking, and growing closer. And author Charlotte Hubbard weaves a story together dealing with the difficult struggles with these two young people that will warm your heart. I love Ms. Hubbard’s writing, and each book she writes is full of detail and vivid scenes that so clearly share her story. The characters are well developed throughout the story, and I really learned to love them. I’m not sure if there are more books in this series, but I would love to keep reading about the Willow Ridge Amish. As you can see through reading about this group of Amish, they are plain people but not perfect, and their life shows difficulty just as anyone’s does. Ms. Hubbard does an awesome job of weaving the good and the bad together, and bringing God’s love and redemption throughout the story to make their lives more smooth running! I highly recommend this book to those who love a good, clean Amish story! You will love this one.

That said, I highly recommend this book, and especially to anyone who enjoys war stories or WWII historical stories. You will find yourself loving this one! I received this book from PUYB to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I’ve called Missouri home for most of my life, and most folks don’t realize that several Old Older Amish and Mennonite communities make their home here, as well. The rolling pastureland, woods, and small towns along county highways make a wonderful setting for Plain populations—and for stories about them, too! While Jamesport, Missouri is the largest Old Order Amish settlement west of the Mississippi River, other communities have also found the affordable farm land ideal for raising crops, livestock, and running the small family-owned businesses that support their families.

Like my heroine, Miriam Lantz, of my Seasons of the Heart series, I love to feed people—to share my hearth and home. I bake bread and goodies and I love to try new recipes. I put up jars and jars of green beans, tomatoes, beets and other veggies every summer. All my adult life, I’ve been a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and we hosted a potluck group in our home for more than twenty years.

Like Abby Lambright, heroine of my Home at Cedar Creek series, I consider it a personal mission to be a listener and a peacemaker—to heal broken hearts and wounded souls. Faith and family, farming and frugality matter to me: like Abby, I sew and enjoy fabric arts—I made my wedding dress and the one Mom wore, too, when I married into an Iowa farm family more than thirty-five years ago! When I’m not writing, I crochet and sew, and I love to travel.

I recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job, so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new state and making new friends.

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Interview with author Charlotte Hubbard/Naomi King

02 Nov 2013 Leave a comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Naomi King

Hello Bloggers!! Today I have a very special interview with author Naomi King.,Charlotte Hubbard. Naomi answered several very interesting questions about her writing and love for Amish Fiction. If you haven’t read any of Naomi King’s books, then you are missing a treat! Check out this interview as well as Naomi’s books, including several new books just hitting the shelves. Including a new Christmas novel!

And don’t forget the check out her website for many awesome Amish Recipes!

http://www.naomikingauthor.com/whats-cookin-at-the-sweet-seasons-bakery-cafe/

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Like my heroine, Miriam Lantz, of my new Seasons of the Heart series, I love to feed people—to share my hearth and home. I bake bread and goodies and I love to try new recipes. I put up jars and jars of green beans, tomatoes, beets and other veggies every summer. All my adult life, I’ve been a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and we hosted a potluck group in our home for more than twenty years.

Like Abby Lambright, heroine of my new Home at Cedar Creek series, I consider it a personal mission to be a listener and a peacemaker—to heal broken hearts and wounded souls. Faith and family, farming and frugality matter to me: like Abby, I sew and enjoy fabric arts—I made my wedding dress and the one Mom wore, too, when I married into an Iowa farm family more than thirty-five years ago! When I’m not writing, I crochet and sew, and I love to travel.

I recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job, so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new state and making new friends.

Enjoy the interview!

1.What inspired you to write Amish fiction?

I was fortunate enough to be invited to write Amish fiction! When my editor at Kensington, for whom I’d written a faith-and-family series at another publisher, discovered no one there was writing these very popular Amish stories, she believed I would be a good author to write them. The Amish fascinate me, and I deeply respect their beliefs. When I began writing about them I lived close to Jamesport, MO, the largest Amish settlement west of the Mississippi River. I’ve spent a great deal of time there and I’ve done a lot of other reading/research, as well.

2.How do you choose and create your characters?

For good storytelling, you need a balance of characters who exemplify the Amish lifestyle—and some who are struggling with their faith, and perhaps some characters who challenge Amish beliefs. In this Seasons of the Heart series, I created a mother, Miriam Lantz, and her three daughters—each of whom has a very different story, even though they’re triplets—as the backbone of the series. Readers tell me they feel like they know the Lantz women—and they cannot wait to see what renegade bishop Hiram Knepp will do next! And of course we get to know the other preachers and townspeople who frequent Miriam’s Sweet Seasons Café, and we have met Ben Hooley, who has become Miriam’s new husband, and the family members he brought to Willow Ridge with him in AUTUMN WINDS. As the series progresses, characters will develop and grow along with the main story line, to keep the town of Willow Ridge a lively, interesting, homey place to be.
3. What are you working on now?
I’m about two-thirds of the way through EMMA BLOOMS AT LAST, which is the fourth book of my At Home in Cedar Creek series, which I write as Naomi King, for New American Library. I took a different name at the request of the NAL editor, so the sales stats from my two different series won’t affect/compete against each other (lots of people ask me about that). I also have books 4-6 for this Seasons of the Heart series under contract—and right now AN AMISH COUNTRY CHRISTMAS is in the stores, too. It’s two novellas, one by Charlotte and one by Naomi, and the stories feature characters mixing and matching up from both towns in my two series! It’s great fun.

4. What are four things most people don’t know about you?

Most folks here in St. Paul don’t know a lot about me, because my husband and I have only lived here for three years now! In general, it’s not common knowledge that I taught myself to play the accordion as research for an earlier book, and few people realize that I have green eyes. Most people don’t know (or probably care!) that I won several trophies at speech/debate tournaments in high school, and most people probably figure that, at my age, I color my hair—but the dark brown you see is my untreated, natural shade.
5. You have a lot of Amish recipes on your website. Are these real tried and
true Amish recipes?

You know, I’ve read a lot of Amish cookbooks and I defy anyone to put an Amish recipe for, say, meat loaf, next to my own recipe for it and see anything drastically different! While the Amish have their own traditional favorite foods, like any culture does, a lot of their day- to-day food isn’t much different from what the average farming family eats—or, maybe more accurately, what most families used to eat maybe 40 or 50 years ago when we actually cooked and ate at home most of the time.
Truth be told, many of the recipes in my books/on my website are favorites I’ve been making for many years because I love to cook—and because they fit the season of the story they’re in. So, WINTER OF WISHES features a lot of hearty comfort food for colder weather, and the recipes in AN AMISH COUNTRY CHRISTMAS are all Christmas cookies and treats!
6. How can readers get in touch with you?

Readers can email me at NaomiCKing@gmail.com or they can reach me through the email function on my website, which is http://www.CharlotteHubbard.com. I also get snail mail at P.O. Box 18731, West St. Paul, MN 55118. Readers are also welcome to sign up for my newsletter, which comes out whenever new books are released. This sign-up is on my website homepage, lower left side.

Thanks so much for your interest in my books!

Check out my reviews on Naomi King/ Charlotte Hubbard Books

https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2013/10/24/puyb-presents-an-amish-country-christmas-by-charlotte-hubbard/

https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2013/10/10/puyb-presents-winter-of-wishes-by-charlotte-hubbard/

https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2012/11/06/puyb-tours-presents-rosemary-opens-her-heart-by-noami-king/

https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2012/10/05/cfba-presents-autumn-winds-by-charlotte-hubbard/

PUYB Presents An Amish Country Christmas by Charlotte Hubbard

24 Oct 2013 2 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, Naomi King, PUYB Tours

PUYB Presents

An Amish Country Christmas

by Charlotte Hubbard

ABOUT AN AMISH COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

“The Christmas Visitors”: For spirited Martha Coblentz and her twin Mary, the snow has delivered the perfect holiday and birthday present to their door—handsome brothers Nate and Bram Kanagy. But when unforeseen trouble interrupts their season’s good cheer, it will take unexpected intervention—and sudden understanding—to give all four the blessing of a lifetime.

“Kissing the Bishop”: As the New Year’s first snow settles, Nazareth Hooley and her sister Jerusalem are given a heaven-sent chance to help newly widowed Tom Hostetler tend his home. But when her hope that she and Tom can build on the caring between them seems a dream forever out of reach, Nazareth discovers that faith and love can make any miracle possible.

My Thoughts on this Book

An Amish Country Christmas is two Christmas stories that introduce characters in previous books written by Charlotte Hubbard and the pen name Naomi King. I really enjoy Amish stories, and it is especially enlightening when there is an Amish story with the setting around the Christmas Season. I have read all of King/ Hubbard’s books, and this additional story about these characters was an added blessing. But I will say that this book is awesome reading as a stand alone.

The Christmas setting was heartwarming, and the author did an amazing job of writing the scenes about how the Amish celebrate the holiday’s. The characters were believable and I loved their continued development throughout the story. I have grown to love the characters in the Cedar Creek and Willow Ridge series, and it was especially nice that a book from each of these series was published around the same time. This gave me three Hubbard/King books to read back to back! I encourage you to pick up a copy of the heartwarming book of Christmas stories to read during Christmas, and keep this one to read in the years to come! You will not be disappointed!

I received this book from PUYB to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

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ABOUT CHARLOTTE HUBBARD

I recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job, so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new state and making new friends.

You can visit her website at www.CharlotteHubbard.com

PUYB Presents Winter of Wishes by Charlotte Hubbard

10 Oct 2013 2 Comments

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, PUYB Tours

ABOUT WINTER WISHES

Snow is falling, cookies are baking, and Christmas is just around the corner in Willow Ridge, Missouri, where a new season marks fresh beginnings for the residents of this tranquil Amish town . . .

As another year draws to a close in Willow Ridge, life seems to be changing for everyone but Rhoda Lantz. Her widowed mother is about to remarry, her twin sister is a busy newlywed, and soon Rhoda will be alone in her cozy apartment above the blacksmith’s shop. An ad posted by an Englischer looking for someone to help with his mother and children may offer just the companionship she’s looking for, but if she falls for the caring single father, she may risk being shunned by her community. Certain she can only wish for things she cannot have, Rhoda must remember that all things are possible with God, and nothing is stronger than the power of love.

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MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I Loved this Amish story! Rhoda Lantz was feeling kind of left out because everyone had something going on in their life except her. But that all changed when she found an advertisement posted at a store, an ad for help taking care of children and a mom. Rhoda was very excited and answered the ad, even though it was posted by an Englischer.

I have enjoyed reading about the Lantz family, and enjoyed reading Rhoda’s story. Charlotte Hubbard has created wonderful characters for this series, and I found them all believable and realistic. I like that Ms. Hubbard weaves so many issues into the lives of these family members because that is what makes the story so believable. These problems they struggle with are things that people struggle with in every day life! I’ve grown to love the Lantz family and all those at the bakery. The little community of Willow Ridge, Missouri is heartwarming and friendly, and I would sure love to live in a place like this! I hope there are more books in this series coming! And I really want to encourage you to pick up a copy of WInter of Wishes for a few hours of enjoyment and entertainment.

ABOUT CHARLOTTE HUBBARD

I recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job, so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new state and making new friends.

You can visit her website at www.CharlotteHubbard.com

PUYB Presents “Autumn Winds” by Charlotte Hubbard

05 Oct 2012 1 Comment

by Splashes of Joy in Charlotte Hubbard, PUYB Tours, Zebra Books

Charlotte Hubbard

Autumn Winds

ABOUT CHARLOTTE HUBBARD

I recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job, so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new state and making new friends.

To find out more about Charlotte, please visit her at www.CharlotteHubbard.com.

Visit her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.hubbard1

On Goodreads at:http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/53342.Charlotte_Hubbard

ABOUT AUTUMN WINDS

The leaves are falling and there’s a chill in the air in Willow Ridge, Missouri, the quaint, quiet Amish town where love, loyalty, and faith in the Old Ways are about to be put to the test …

AUTUMN WINDS

Winds of change are blowing through Willow Ridge, and they’re bringing a stranger to the Sweet Seasons Bakery. At first, widowed Miriam Lantz has misgivings about Ben Hooley, a handsome but rootless traveling blacksmith. But as she gets to know the kind-hearted newcomer, she wonders if his arrival was providential. Perhaps she could find love again—if only there weren’t so many obstacles in the way. With Bishop Knepp relentlessly pursuing her hand in marriage and the fate of her beloved café at stake, Miriam must listen to God and her heart to find the happiness she longs for and the love she deserves.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Ben Hooley didn’t expect to pop in on the owner of the Sweet Seasons Bakery like he did, but he sure was glad that he met the friendly and nice looking Miriam Lantz. And what would people say since the storm just knocked the lights out and everything was dark? But since she was cooking for a suprise birthday party for the Bishop, Ben knew he was just the new guy in the area. He didn’t even know if he would stay or not. But he sure didn’t care for the Bishop being sweet on Miriam. She didn’t deserve to be the wife of a bishop and raise his clan.

This book starts off with a bang, with Ben making his noisy and somewhat appearance in the area. Mariam was a sweet lady and boy could she cook. I was hungry the entire time I read this book! Therefore I was a very happy reader when I found the recipe section at the end of the book, with some wonderful recipes I might add.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story of Miriam and her Bakery, along with her struggling over who she should go for. The Bishop, who everyone seems to think, and especially Bishop Knepp, or could Miriam really find love again in this kind hearted man who literally was thrown into the wall of her Bakery on that stormy night?

Autumn Winds is another wonderful Amish read by author Charlotte Hubbard and well worth your read. The twists and turns in the story will capture your attention and keep you reading. And the food is awesome! The added little cookbook in the back of the book makes it all worth while. I will sure be trying some of these recipes! Thank you Charlotte Hubbard!

This book was provided by PUYB and the publisher Zebra Books for me to read and review. I was not expected or required to write a postive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

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