Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Return to the Big Valley - 3 Novellas by by Wanda E. Brunstetter, Jean Brunstetter, & Richelle Brunstetter


My thoughts:
This edition of three novellas by authors who all have the same last name, Brunstetter, is a sweet, relaxing read that showcases the manner that Amish folks live on a daily basis. The stories are not interconnected and can each be read as stand-alone novellas.

I believe my most enjoyable story of the three is that by Richelle Brunstetter who is a new author for me. I found the main character, Alma, an interesting individual who as a young widow handles her grief in unexpected ways.

For readers who enjoy stories about modern day folks who live their lives and faith more in line with people who lived in the 1700s, stories about the Amish most likely will be enjoyable. The Amish, though each community is somewhat different in their rules governing their way of life, shun the use of electricity, phones, cars and trucks. Their dress is distinct and sets them apart. They speak an old language, Pennsylvania Dutch, though they also speak English. 

Stories about the Amish have words in Pennsylvania Dutch scattered through out which tends to lend authenticity. It does, though, sometimes confuse the reader. 

The lead author in this set of three stories, Wanda E. Brunstetter, has been a much sought after author in the Christian fiction world of publishing for her gentle, lovely reads about the Amish.

I recommend this set of novellas as completely clean, gentle reads about flawed individuals facing storms of life and making life-changing decisions.

About the book: The Brunstetters Return to a Unique Amish Setting for Three New Stories of Love. Journey back to an area of Pennsylvania that is home to three distinct Amish communities and meet three young women who face heartfelt disappointments in romance.

Wilma’s Wish by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Wilma Hostetler has been courted by Israel Zook for the last year, and he’s recently proposed marriage. But when his sister dies, leaving him to care for five young nephews who openly dislike Wilma, she has second thoughts of starting with a ready-made family and decides to call off the wedding. Can anything be done to restore the relationship, or will Israel seek another wife?

Martha’s Miracle by Jean Brunstetter

Martha Yoder is different from other Amish women in her love of hunting and the outdoors. Meeting Glen Swarey, who is working with the local fire department, seems to be a good match. But can Martha accept Glen’s thoughts of leaving the Amish faith, or will she walk away from a chance at love?

Alma’s Acceptance by Richelle Brunstetter

Alma Wengerd is a young widow who leaves her home in Kentucky to stay with friends in Pennsylvania. Soon she is speeding into a renewed romance with Elias Kurtz and raising the brows of the older church members. When Alma is waylaid by some unexpected news, could putting her happiness with Elias on hold be her only option?

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

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