Family Gatherings at Promise Lodge Tour by Charlotte Hubbard

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.”

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 and their Border collie, Vera.

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Home on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand

Home on Huckleberry Hill

Review Promo Blast 

ABOUT THIS BOOK 

Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin’s irrepressible eighty-something matchmakers Anna and Felty Helmuth are at it again. And this time they’re willing to rough it to get the job done . . .

 

 
Mary Anne Neuenschwander knows she should be content with what Gotte has given her. She has a comfortable house, a fruitful farm, and a good, steady husband. But after nearly six years of marriage, she still longs for a baby. Yet her husband, Jethro, seems to care more about fishing than about his wife. Unable to bear Jethro’s indifference, Mary Anne moves into a tent in the woods where he won’t have to be bothered. But when her mammi and dawdi find out what she’s done, they’ll stop at nothing—including a little camping trip of their own—to help save their granddaughter’s marriage . . .
 
Jethro’s greatest blessing is his beloved wife, Mary Anne. Nothing else in his life has turned out anywhere near the way he expected. Rather than burden Mary Anne with his disappointment, he shields her by spending less and less time at home and more time on the river. But when he finds that she’s moved out, he’s shocked. What will people think? What is Mary Anne thinking? And what clever plans are her grandparents hatching?. . .

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

What a pleasure to return to Huckleberry Hill and my favorite matchmaking couple, Anna and Felty Helmuth. This time it is a little different with this duo. Instead of helping one of their grandchildren find love, this adorable couple helps one an already married granddaughter with her marriage. And they had to do a little roughing it in order to help.

I love this Huckleberry Hill Series by Jennifer Beckstrand. Each book keeps getting better and better. The story here is a bit of a clever twist on the way Mary Anne leaves her husband. It ends up involving the whole family, and yes, Anna and Felty was right there with them. And poor Jethro has the shock of his life. With a group of the best characters around, this beautifully written story with give you hours if entertainment and enjoyment. The entire book is just plain fun! It is impossible no to laugh at the humor throughout the story, especially coming from Anna and Felty. This couple is hilarious! I highly recommend that you check out Home on Huckleberry Hill, as well as the other books in this series, and join Anna and Felty as they help out their grandchildren. You never know who will be the next one on Anna’s list! I hope you love them as well as I did!

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 

Jennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, The Honeybee Sisters series, and The Petersheim Brothers series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the coveted RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth, the Honeybee sisters’ aendi Bitsy, and Alfie and Benji Petersheim. Jennifer has written twenty-two Amish romances, a historical Western, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. Jennifer is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency. She and her husband have been married for thirty-five years, and she has six children and eight adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.

Social Media Link

Website: http://www.jenniferbeckstrand.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbeckstrandfans

Twitter: @JenniferBeckst1

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jennifergbeckst/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Beckstrand/e/B0073GHCOG/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1488910908&sr=8-2-ent

Instagram: j.beckstrand

Bookbub: @JenniferBeckstrand https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jennifer-beckstrand

Purchase Link

https://amzn.to/3aFrepp

A Change of Heart by Molly Jebber

Synopsis:

A modern new century brings a young Amish woman an unexpected new life—and a chance to discover love’s true way home…

Ohio, 1899. Soft-spoken midwife Becca Yost lived by her Amish faith’s strict rules—until her fiancé jilted her before their entire community. She’s never been away from home, but the bustling Englischer town of Massillon, Ohio, is a welcome unexpected refuge. Especially when she goes to work for Dr. Matt Carrington, who shares her passion for healing those in need. His outgoing spirit and gentle strength show Becca a surprising new world of choices—and irresistible love. But there is one formidable obstacle: Matt’s wealthy mother is determined her son will marry a society woman.

With her newfound resolve challenged, Becca decides that she and Matt must not be destined for each other after all. She accepts that she will have to forge a life alone—until a wrenching crisis and life-changing revelations teach her that true faith lies in all things, especially impossible second chances. . .

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This Amish story takes us back to the late 1800s/early 1900s, and to me, the Amish faith was much stricter than today. When Becca Yost’s fiance dumped her, she left her home and Amish faith and moved in with her sister, in an Englisher town. This would change her life forever. Would it be for the good or bad?

As always, Molly Jebber gives her readers a stunning story to read about the Amish people. I always like her stories because they are Amish with a bit of twists and turns. I enjoyed the historical era, my grandfather was born in 1880, and I always enjoy books set in his earlier years. I really like Becca and felt so bad for the humiliation she went through. I enjoyed her sweet quiet spirit but was glad she broke out and got the job working for a Dr. Bringing on even more interesting details of this story. Though it took me a little while getting into this story, it ended up being a really nice sweet read. If you enjoy a nice clean Amish read, or maybe you haven’t tried the Amish genre, this would be a good book for you to read and enjoy. And its a pretty fast read. One you can read in a few hours.

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 

About Molly Jebber

Molly Jebber writes Amish Historical Romances. Her books have been featured in USA Today’s HEA column, and made Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Ten List. She’s on Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll and she receives rave reviews in numerous magazines and media across the country. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of American, Southwest Florida Writers Group, and RWA Faith, Hope, and Love.

She’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, and a guest lecturer for conferences, libraries, women’s activity groups, Ohio State University and more. She speaks about Amish history and their traditions, writing, marketing, publishing, and about her books.

Her new Amish Charm Bakery Series has a whirlwind of intrigue, turmoil, and joy! Check out her full list on Amazon or her website at http://www.mollyjebber.com! Some are offered in large print-hardback and audiobook, along with print and eBook.

A bit about me . . . .

I was raised in a small town in Ohio. If you had blinked twice, you would’ve missed it. It’s grown by leaps and bounds. I’ve always found the Amish life interesting. I’ve enjoyed the many times I’ve visited their communities and learned about their lifestyle. Creating historical Amish characters and throwing them into difficult situations and joyous times has been challenging and fun. The greatest reward I’ve experienced in becoming an author is meeting wonderful people from all over the world who’ve been encouraging and supportive. I enjoy traveling and speaking for Women’s Christian Connection and telling my personal story, and speaking at libraries, conferences, women’s groups, community groups, and more about Amish lifestyles and traditions, my books, writing, publishing, and marketing. I love God, family, friends, and swimming, golf, walks on the beach, reading, and writing are fun. I say no to skydiving and onions!

Visit my website at http://www.mollyjebber.com and sign up for my newsletter for members only contests, giveaways and where I’ll be speaking!

Hannah’s Courage by Molly Jebber

About the Book

Book:  Hannah’s Courage

Author: Molly Jebber

Genre:  Amish Historical Romance

Release Date: January 28, 2020

A loaf of fragrant cinnamon bread for breakfast . . . a sweet and creamy custard pie for dessert. In 1912 Ohio, the Amish Charm Bakery has something to delight locals and visiting Englischer alike. And within this warm, welcoming community, there’s always room for love to grow . . .

Hannah Lapp’s life, like a long-cherished recipe, is satisfying just the way it is. She enjoys whipping up desserts at the bakery, tutoring local children, and socializing with dear friends. One of those friends, Timothy Barkman, has made his interest in Hannah clear, but she’s been in no hurry to change her circumstances.

No sooner does she feel ready to grow closer to hard-working, handsome Timothy than Hannah finds she may have waited too long. Charlene Shetler intends to become Timothy’s fraa. It’s little wonder he’s attracted to such a pretty, forthright young woman, but is the newcomer all that she seems? Only when Hannah is willing to confront some difficult truths can she move bravely toward a life of abiding faith and love . . .

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Hannah and Timothy had loved each other for a long time. But Hannah was content working in the bakery with her friends, and she hated change. So she keeps putting Timothy off when he tries to pursue her. It’s when a new family moves to Charm, with a young lady around Hannah’s age, nonetheless, that Hannah realizes she may be too late to tell Timothy her true feelings for him. Where will this leave Hannah?

I always look forward to reading a Molly Jebber book, because I know it is a story I will love and enjoy. Hannah’s Courage was a refreshing new read for me. I love the Amish Charm Bakery and the ladies who work there day to day baking the most delicious sounding foods. But most of all, I enjoy the relationship and fellowship of these sweet ladies. I learn a lot from the advice they give to each other. This is a workplace I would love to work. They all get along so well, and one doesn’t try to get ahead of another. And I enjoy the talk about their men, or the lack thereof. Though I was wishing Hannah wouldn’t have been so strong willed, and let one of her friends talk to Timothy, since she wouldn’t tell him how she feels!

And then there is Timothy’s brother, Aaron. Hannah and Aaron have such a sweet relationship. And Aaron is doing so well in school as Hannah tutors him. But Hannah is about to make a decision that will shake everyone up. And there is so much more to this story I would love to comment on, like Charlene Shetler, but you really need to read this beautiful book to enjoy the story more. And I don’t like giving away too many clues! I encourage you to pick up a copy of Hannah’s Courage today!!

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.

Click here to get your copy!

And to read my review of the first two books in the Amish Charm Bakery Series, click the links below.

Book One, Lisa’s Second Chance

https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2018/02/01/lisas-second-chance-by-molly-jebber/

Book Two, Ellie’s Redemption 

https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2019/01/31/ellies-redemption-by-mollie-jebber/

 

About the Author

Molly Jebber’s Amish Historical Romance books have been featured on Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Ten Recommended Reads, in USA Today’s HEA, Romantic Times and many other media sites. She’s tours and speaks for Stonecroft Ministries – Women’s Christian Connection, and about Amish history/traditions, writing, marketing, publishing, and her books. She loves God, her family, and friends. She enjoys swimming, golf, reading, and says yes to butterscotch pie and parasailing, but no to coconut and skydiving! Visit http://www.mollyjebber.com for a complete list of her books and speaking events.

 

More from Molly

I related to Hannah in this book where I had to find the courage to make some hard decisions. Maybe you’ve had some hard choices to make and finding the courage to follow through has been difficult for you.

Have you had a bad day where nothing goes right? We’ve all had those. Hannah’s has many days like this, and she is torn about what to do from one problem to the next in her life. She makes some snap decisions, and faces life-altering challenges. You’ll laugh and want to stomp your feet at the twists and turns in this story.  She’s good at giving her friends advice, but has trouble following it. I can relate to this in my life at times. Maybe you can too.

The Sheriff and Dr. Harrison are still regular customers at the bakery where she whips up mouth-watering desserts. She and her friends cry, laugh, and offer each other advice. I love time with girlfriends, and Hannah’s no different. You’ll relate to her, root for her, want to reach in the book and shake her at times (I’m sure my friends have wanted to do this with me a time or two!), and wonder how what the future holds for her.

I hope you’ll follow my blog tour and enter for a chance to win the Grand Prize at the end of the tour. The more you enter, the more chances you have of winning!

Thank you so much for your support and encouragement. Your Facebook comments help me to get to know you better, and I appreciate it so much!

 

Here’s a recipe Hannah’s whipped up for you. And there are more in the back of Hannah’s story.

 

Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ¾ teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoonnutmeg
• ½ teaspoonsalt
• 1 ¼ cups vegetable oil
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cupbrown sugar
• 3eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
• 3large apples, peeled and cut into large pieced

Glaze

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoonvanilla

 

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease 9 x 13 pan with butter and coat with 2 tablespoons of flour
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Sift two additional times and set aside.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine oil and both sugars, and mix until well blended.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add vanilla and mix again.
5. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the batter and mix thoroughly. By hand, fold in apples and walnuts and mix until evenly combined.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Remove cake from the oven and allow to cool in the bundt pan for 20 minutes.
8. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, over medium heat, combine all of the glaze ingredients. Bring to a boil and allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute.
9. Remove the cake from the pan, onto a serving plate. Spoon the glaze over the warm cake.
10. Cool for a little longer before serving.

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, January 30

Genesis 5020, January 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 31

Texas Book-aholic, January 31

Batya’s Bits, February 1

Quiet Quilter, February 1

She Lives to Read, February 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 2

Bigreadersite , February 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 3

For Him and My Family, February 4

deb’s Book Review, February 4

Inklings and notions, February 5

Jeanette’s Thoughts, February 5

Pause for Tales, February 5

Older & Smarter?, February 6

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 6

Blossoms and Blessings, February 7

Lighthouse Academy Blog, February 7 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 8

Christian Bookaholic, February 8

For the Love of Literature, February 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 9

SusanLovesBooks, February 10

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, February 10

Connie’s History Classroom, February 11

SPLASHES of Joy , February 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 12

Vicky Sluiter, February 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Molly is giving away a Molly Jebber grand prize collection that includes a handmade quilt and Amazon card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f564/hannah-s-courage-celebration-tour-giveaway

New Beginnings at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

New Beginnings at 

Promise Lodge

by Charlotte Hubbard 

My Rating: 5 Stars 

Promise Lodge, Book 4

 

 

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.

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.

 

 

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

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!

 

Lisa’s Second Chance by Molly Jebber

About the Book

 

Title: Liza’s Second Chance

Author: Molly Jebber

Genre: Christian Amish Fiction

Release Date: January 30, 2018

The sweet welcome of straight-from-the-oven sugar cookies and hot cocoa. The warm invitation of apple pie and fresh cold milk. In 1912 Ohio, the Amish Charm Bakery is the heart of a close-knit, faith-nourished community, where people can find a refuge, a place to start again—and love that can make their lives new . . .

For Liza Schrock, the bakery her late husband bought was an unexpected haven from their unhappy arranged marriage. Now she’s perfectly content to cook up mouth-watering delights for her hometown, give to those alone or in trouble—and remain happily unwed. And though she’s willing to give handsome, newly-arrived widower Jacob Graber all the help he desperately needs, she is sure they can stay just friends . . .

But as Liza also tries to aid Jacob’s troubled teenage daughter, she starts caring far too much for his gentle ways and steadfast hopes. And when a wrenching secret she must keep comes between them, can Liza find the faith to risk opening her heart again—and reach for one more chance at real love?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Liza Schrock in content running the bakery her late husband bought for her, and has no need for another man in her life. Paul was enough for a lifetime of men for her. Until Jacob Graber and his daughter Ellie walks into her bakery and her life.

I enjoyed this sweet Amish story, though some of the time it was a bit slow and things were repeated often. Lisa was happy to be rid of her demanding husband and could now live without fear of his abusive behavior. Though she reacts to Jacob differently than any other man, she is still content with being alone. But Jacob is determined to win Lisa over. I didn’t really care for Jacob’s attitude in several areas. He was rather pushy, even asking Lisa’s family personal questions that were none of his business at the time. And I didn’t like the way he talked to his daughter Ellie about how he felt over his wife’s death, how he missed her too, and needed a friend. To me, this just added to Ellie’s negative feelings, and made Jacob a bit self centered, which is not how Amish men are to act. Soles he sounded like more the whiny child. And I could understand Ellie’s feelings. She had lost her mom after all, and was at the age to question Amish life. And with her dads feelings and attitude all over the place she needed more stability than him.

This story jumps around a lot, it deals with a lot of issues lightly but it doesn’t get too deep in any of them. For Amish fiction lovers, you will enjoy Lisa’s story. The ending is much better than the rest of the book so hang in there and keep reading!

A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Molly Jebber’s books have been featured on Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Ten Recommended Reads, in USA Today’s HEA, Romantic Times and many other media sites. She’s tours and speaks about Amish history/traditions, writing, marketing, publishing, and about her books. She loves God, her family, friends. She enjoys swimming, golf, reading, and says yes to butterscotch pie and parasailing, but no to coconut and skydiving! Visit www.mollyjebber.com for a complete list of her books and speaking events.

Guest Post from Molly Jebber

Here’s a little about Liza’s story:

Hello Friends,

I loved writing about Liza. She has a lot to overcome in this book, but her faith in God, and compassion for others helps her to arrive at her decisions through difficult and happy times. I enjoyed visiting Charm, and it makes for a good setting for this story. The bakery is fun with all the sugary pies, pastries, and breads. The unique customers, and the place where friends are made, and where trouble happens. Most of all, I hope I’ve done a good job entertaining you as you read “Liza’s Second Chance”.

Blog Stops

A Rup Life, January 30

Books n Baubles, January 30

margaret kazmierczak, January 30 (interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, January 30 ( Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Avid Reader Book Reviews, January 31

Josephine’s Thoughts, January 31

Vicky Sluiter, February 1

Splashes of Joy, February 1

For The Love of Books, February 2

Christian Bookaholic, February 2

Blossoms and Blessings, February 3

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, February 3

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, February 4

Mary Hake, February 4

SusanLovesBooks, February 5

Carpe Diem, February 5

Reading is my Super Power, February 5 (interview)

The Fizzy Pop Collection, February 6

proud to be an autism mom, February 6

Bibliophile Reviews, February 7

A Greater Yes, February 7

Pursuing Stacie, February 7

Texas Book-aholic, February 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 8

Have A Wonderful Day, February 9

Janices book reviews, February 9

cherylbbookblog, February 10

Red Headed Book Lady, February 10

Bigreadersite, February 10

Pink Granny’s Journey, February 11

Jeanette’s Thoughts, February 11

A Reader’s Brain, February 12

A Baker’s Perspective, February 12

Giveaway

 

To celebrate her tour, Molly is giving away a $75 Amazon gift card!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c6d1

 

A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand

About the Book

Title: A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill

Author: Jennifer Beckstrand

Genre: Christian Amish Fiction

Release Date: December 26, 2017

Elsie Helmuth’s plain-spoken ways got her in trouble once before, so she needs to make a good impression at her new teaching job. But she’s not about to let disabled student Wally Sensenig work below his potential. And she definitely won’t put up with his hot-headed older brother sabotaging her efforts, no matter how handsome he is. . .

Sam is nearly at the end of his rope caring for his ailing, widowed mother, working their farm, and raising his siblings. He’ll admit Elsie’s ideas are bringing Wally out of his angry shell—but why does she have to be as stubborn as she is pretty? Yet as it turns out, Elsie has taught Sam something about himself as well. And he’ll do whatever it takes to make up for his mistakes—and win her heart forever.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

I love Jennifer Beckstrand’s Huckleberry Hill Series! And I am so glad she is continuing with Anna and Felty’s matchmaking skills. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill continues with Anna trying to bring granddaughter Elsa Helmuth and Sam Sensenig together, but their efforts seem to be blocked at every angle. And Sam Sensenig certainly is not interested in Anna and Felty’s granddaughter. Especially since she is probably 40 years old and nothing close to attractive. Oh, what Sam doesn’t know will sure surprise him!

That Jennifer Beckstrand can write so many books about Essentially the same thing, is in itself intriguing! Each story written about the matchmaking of 80+year old Anna and Felty Helmuth is just do sweet and interesting, full of adventure and faith, you have to love them. And Anna and Felty are the grandma and granddaddy everyone wish for. And I was blessed to have such grandparents, as well as having parents that were such grandparents to our children. Maybe thats why I love this entire series so much!

I love Else’s strong and determined personality and Sam’s storming into the schoolroom to let Else have a piece of his mind was humorous in itself. Sam’s attitude makes me smile because I know several young men with just the same attitude. This book obviously relates to me a lot. These along with the many other scenes, humorous and serious are reasons you want to be sure and read this new installment in the Huckleberry Hill series! You will sure not be disappointed!

A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

 

 

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Jennifer Beckstrand is the RITA-nominated, award-winning Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries and The Honeybee Sisters series for Kensington Books. Her much-anticipated Amish series, The Honeybee Sisters, has created a lot of romantic buzz. Sweet as Honey received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly and Sweet as Honey and A Bee in her Bonnet were both awarded Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth and the Honeybee sisters’aendi Bitsy. Jennifer has a degree in mathematics and a passion for Jane Austen and Shakespeare. She and her husband have been married for thirty-three years, and she has six children and six adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.

Guest Post from Jennifer Beckstrand

I have a very special place in my heart for teachers. My dad was a high school math teacher. My mother taught second grade for over twenty years. My son-in-law taught choir in high school, and my daughter taught seventh-grade science. Another daughter taught American history labs at the university and still another daughter taught classes for a youth summer program.

Elsie Stutzman is a dedicated teacher who was dismissed from her last teaching job in Ohio and is trying to make a fresh start and a good impression in Bonduel, Wisconsin. Unfortunately one of her students, Wally Sensenig, is making things difficult for her, and Wally’s hot-headed older brother seems determined to get her fired. But Elsie is a dedicated teacher, too stubborn to back down and too steadfast to give up on anybody.

Elsie’s grandparents, Anna and Felty Helmuth, have other plans for her. They want her to fall in love with one of the local boys, but they’re finding it a little difficult to get the two young people together.

Teachers have an immense impact on our lives. We all remember a favorite elementary school teacher who inspired a love of learning or a high school teacher who encouraged us to reach for greatness. One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Zobell, who taught ninth grade English. I distinctly remember her reading “The Outsiders” out loud to our class. She had a way of making great books and great stories come to life, and she sparked a love of reading (and writing) that I will always be grateful for. The teacher who had the most impact on my life is my dad. He helped me through Calculus in high school and inspired me to major in math in college.

I hope we will take the time this month to thank the teachers in our lives for all they do for us and all they do for our kids.

Who was one of your favorite teachers and why?

Blog Stops

Christian Bookaholic, January 16

proud to be an autism mom, January 16

Blossoms and Blessings, January 16

Reading Is My SuperPower, January 17

Mommynificent, January 17

Avid Reader Book Reviews, January 17

Bibliophile Reviews, January 18

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, January 18

The Power of Words, January 18

Multifarious, January 19

A Greater Yes, January 19

Texas Book-aholic, January 20

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 20

Karen Sue Hadley, January 21

Splashes of Joy, January 21

A Reader’s Brain, January 22

Mary Hake, January 22

Southern Gal Loves to Read, January 23

SusanLovesBooks, January 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 24

Janices book reviews, January 24

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 25

Carpe Diem, January 25

Quiet Quilter, January 26

margaret kazmierczak, January 26 (Interview)

cherylbbookblog, January 27

Red Headed Book Lady, January 27

Pink Granny’s Journey, January 27

A Baker’s Perspective, January 28

Simple Harvest Reads, January 28 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Pursuing Stacie, January 28

Because I said so- and other adventures in parenting., January 29

Vicky Sluiter, January 29

Bigreadersite, January 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to three winners!! https://promosimple.com/ps/c6cf

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

 

The Amish of Ice Mountain Three Book Series by Kelly Long

The Amish of Ice Mountain

Three Book Series

by Kelly Long

The Amish Bride

Like most Mountain Amish girls, Mary King has always dreamed of her wedding day. But she never imagined that a sudden, irresistible kiss would result in marriage to the handsome Englischer professor studying her unique community. Or that doing the truly honorable thing means keeping their relationship chaste so both she and Dr. Jude Lyons can someday go their separate ways.

But when Mary accompanies her husband-in-name-only to Atlanta to meet his wealthy, overbearing family, she’s tempted more than ever by Jude’s kindness, humor–and vulnerability. And when a wrenching misunderstanding causes her to return heartbroken to her remote Appalachian home, she’s certain she’s lost the real love they have found…and the shared future she’s come to want so much. But a crisis of more than faith will work surprising miracles–and show Mary that love is strong enough to make the impossible come true.

“Long creates storylines that captivate her readers…” —RT Book Reviews

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An Amish Man

Joseph King has good reasons to work an oil rig far from his beloved Ice Mountain . . . and to mind his own business. He hopes to protect his younger brother Edward from worldly influences. And maybe he can finally forget how yielding to temptation forced him to leave home in disgrace. Still, no honorable Amish man would let Priscilla Allen and her four-year-old daughter remain homeless, living out of their car. And how can he not be drawn to the feisty waitress’s bravery and hidden strength . . .

Offering Priscilla a home on Ice Mountain as his wife-in-name-only gives her a place to start again. For Joseph, it’s also an unexpected chance to regain his reputation and standing in the community. But Priscilla’s warmth, caring, and determination to adjust to Amish society are renewing Joseph’s long-buried hope. Now as his guilt and her wrenching secrets threaten the fragile trust growing between them, they will need the riskiest of miracles to put the past to rest–and fulfill a promise only love and renewed faith can bring.

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The Amish Heart of Ice Mountain

Two Amish Hearts

Young healer Sarah Mast always hopes for the best. But her betrothed’s return from working Englischer oil rigs is confirming her worst fears. She no longer recognizes Edward King as the honorable man who’s been courting her—someone who now wants his people to sell their precious mountain land to a drilling company. And no matter how appealing his touch, she can’t see a future for them. Until a misunderstanding and the laws of the Old Order leave them no choice but to wed. Living together in Sarah’s simple log cabin, surrounded by the love and faith of the mountain Amish, Sarah and Edward will have a heaven-sent chance to truly know each other for the first time . . .

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MY THOUGHTS ON THIS SERIES OF BOOKS

When I saw the cover of these books, I really had to have them, because I love pretty covers. And these are very good and well written stories, I just don’t agree with them being listing as Christian or Inspirational fiction. In book one, The Amish Bride of Ice Mountain,  I felt the author went overboard with giving detailed descriptions of the love scenes, this is for secular books, not books labeled as Christian fiction. Then I read the second book, The Man of Ice Mountain and it was even worse even more detailed scenes. I respect people who enjoy this type of book, but not if they are listed as Christian. For this reason, I didn’t bother to read Book Three, because I didn’t want to waist one or two days on a book I didn’t feel comfortable reading. Like I said, these are really good stories, but they are definitely NOT Christian or Inspirational fiction. I am sorry but I can not support contents like that here.

I received this book from Zebra Publishing  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

Biography

Kelly Long was born and raised in North Central Pennsylvania. There was an Amish hitching post at the small grocery store in her town. She loves to write Amish romance and is the author of novel, Sarah’s Garden, the novella Amish Christmas Expanded Edition with some other great Amish authors, Amish Love with Beth Wiseman and Kathy Fuller, and Lilly’s Wedding Quilt–the sequel to Sarah’s Garden. She lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.

PUYB Presents “Autumn Winds” by Charlotte Hubbard

Charlotte Hubbard

Autumn Winds

ABOUT CHARLOTTE HUBBARD

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 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.

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.