When Elizabeth Kaufman received the news of her husband’s death at the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863, she felt only relief. She determined that she would never be at the mercy of any man again, even if it meant she would never have a family of her own. Then Aaron Zook comes home with her brother when the war ends two years later.Despite the severity of his injuries, Aaron resolves to move West and … and leave the pain of the past behind him. He never imagined that the Amish way of life his grandfather had rejected long ago would be so enticing. That, and a certain widow he can’t get out of his mind.Yet, even in a simple community, life has a way of getting complicated. Aaron soon finds that while he may have left the battlefield behind, there is another fight he must win–the one for the heart of the woman he loves.Welcome back to the Amish community at Weaver’s Creek, where the bonds of family and faith bind up the brokenhearted.
more
“Softly Blows the Bugle” has a fantastic storyline that kept my attention from beginning to the end. I was totally fascinated by the story and the characters. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend for others to read.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
Elizabeth Kaufman was relieved to her that her husband would not return from war, now a widow she has returned to her Amish roots and is determined never to marry or be under man’s thumb again.
The end of the war brings the return of her brother, and along with him an Englisher friend, Aaron Zook, who is bent on heading West. Also new to the valley is Solomon Mast, who has bought the neighboring property, and has his eye set on marriage.
The third in a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. Well researched I think that it did a great job of showing what Amish communities might have been like in the later 1800’s. The story was engaging and fast paced, I like how it follows up on characters from the previous books. But it was very difficult to see Elizabeth headed into a disaster after already having gone through so much. Plus, I strongly dislike being inside the bad guy’s head, especially this one. He was so cold and calculating, I know why his chapters were important to the plot, but I just hated him as a person SO much!
Overall, this was an engaging read, with well developed characters, and an entertaining plot making for a quick read. Strong themes of faith, and community. A wonderful read for fans of historical and Amish fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Amish fiction is a somewhat newer subgenre of Christian fiction for me, one that I’ve been reading for only a few years. Growing up about an hour and a half from Ohio Amish Country and visiting there often, I had some familiarity with the culture, and reading well-researched novels has offered additional insight. I do, however, find Amish historical fiction to be just as fascinating. This series is the first that I’ve ever read about the Amish during the Civil War era, and this third book especially sheds light on the unique impacts on their communities.
In Jan Drexler’s “Softly Blows the Bugle,” book three of The Amish of Weaver’s Creek, the Civil War has recently ended, and Jonas Weaver returns home. With him is Aaron Zook, a former Confederate soldier who lost his leg in battle and his faith when his mother died years earlier. Two generations removed from his Amish heritage, he is determined to head west to escape all that he’s lost; likewise, Jonas’s sister, Elizabeth Kaufman, struggles under the burden of her own tainted past. When a stranger arrives in town, he may hold the key to helping them both move on.
While this book can be read as a standalone, I would encourage readers to go through the series in order for the most fulfilling experience and to meet all of the main characters in depth. Each story makes more of an emotional impact if readers understand the background. The Weaver’s Creek community, by and large, serves as an example of what the body of Christ is meant to be: welcoming and loving, without compromising its convictions. The kinship is so heartwarming; despite his previous sympathies and being an Englischer, Aaron finds loving care and acceptance, which in turn allows for healing of more than just his physical body. In a similar manner, the Amish response to slavery and segregation plays out through interactions with the former slave named Dulcey. Another interesting aspect of this story is the disagreement between the Weaver’s Creek traditionalists and the more liberal Amish from other districts. In so many ways, these kinds of situations and issues reflect what we are dealing with today, reminding us that everyone has hardships and struggles, and that we are not as different from each other as we may seem.
Redemption and second chances are themes heavily interwoven into “Softly Blows the Bugle.” Drexler takes her characters through the emotions and doubts of the journey to forgiveness and to surrendering to God, and one of the beautiful facets of it is how God can use other people to draw the hurting to Himself. As Aaron begins to realize, “Grandpop had always told him that the Amish were high and mighty, bragging about their special place in God’s eyes, but Elizabeth didn’t seem to be like that at all. Her whisper…maybe he wasn’t meant to hear it…but her whisper betrayed a brokenness as deep as his own.” With brokenness comes pain and messy situations; sensitive readers may want to be forewarned that there are a few brief scenes of violence and brief discussions about past trauma. In my opinion, they are not graphic and do fit in with the time period and plot. There is one scene that stretched credulity for me, but it didn’t detract from the story overall. I think that Casper Zook says it best: “No man is whole when he is by himself. All of us are broken on the inside until we find our place with God—broken, sore, and weary. Your brokenness is visible, but the solution is the same as it is for any other man. God will make you whole.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
When Elizabeth Kaufman’s brother, Jonas, returns from the Civil War with a friend in tow, Aaron Zook is a broken man. His missing limb is the only visible reminder that life after the war is very different from his life before, but it is not the only thing gone from Aaron’s life. His father, grandfather, and family farm are gone as well, leaving Aaron as untethered and unsure as he is unsteady. Elizabeth knows she shouldn’t be glad that her husband, Reuben, is a casualty. However, she is relieved that she is no longer subject to his cruelty. She has found peace in her singleness and is prepared to live the rest of her life taking care of her parents, siblings, and their families. She certainly has no feelings for Aaron Zook, and Aaron has no intentions to stay in Weaver’s Creek. Of course, our feelings and intentions are pliable in the Author’s hands.
Jan Drexler offers up this story as the third installment in her series, The Amish of Weaver’s Creek. While I try to read series books in order, even going to the very beginning before reading a book for review, I managed to look over that tidbit before beginning Softly Blows the Bugle. I was well into the book before I realized the oversight, and too committed to stop long enough to read the first two books, The Sound of Distant Thunder and The Roll of the Drums. There were a few instances that I felt I might have gained some insight by reading those books first, but Softly Blows the Bugle reads well as a stand alone book. The author builds Weaver’s Creek in a way that is beautifully mapped in my mind. Her characters have depth and quickly become familiar to the reader.
Thank you to the publisher and the author for allowing me a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions within this review are my own and are completely genuine.
After the Civil War, all is still not right for Elizabeth Kaufman and Aaron Zook. Elizabeth, now a widow, promises herself she will never put herself at the mercy of any man again. Throughout the story we get hints of how badly Elizabeth’s first marriage was. She is fearful with good reason.
Aaron Zook has no home or family and the war has taken his leg. Taken in by his friend Jonas’s family, Aaron has a chance to heal and figure out the direction of his life. However there are others who have also come to this quiet Amish town, who do not have anybody’s best interests at heart.
I so wanted Elizabeth and Aaron to have better lives. At first I just wanted them to be happier without even falling in love. The author really showed the hurt and distrust each went through. As the story continued to pick up its pace, then I needed Aaron to help Elizabeth. Especially after the very dark pit she found herself in again.
So even though the war was over, the battle for home and heart still needed to be won for these two wounded characters.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This has been my favorite book in this series so far. This was interesting to learn a little of how an Amish man fought in the Cival War. I also loved how Elizabeth and Aaron take their time in getting to know each other and become friends. I love the romance and intrigue. I look forward to reading many more books by the author. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
This compelling novel offers a powerful tale that tugs at the heart and soul as you follow the life of widow after the Civil War. Whether you have read either of the other books in the series, this can stand alone and provides a satisfying read. The characters endear themselves, except for the nasty antagonist, who will remain unnamed here. Elizabeth Kaufman feels stuck between expectations from her Amish community and what her own heart longs for. Will she allow it to lead her the right way? Can an injured former soldier help her forge a better future? He has a physical infirmity, but she suffers internally. Can that draw them together or will it push them further apart? As the story explores the nuances of relationships and faith, the reader travels along on this enlightening journey to wholeness. I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
There are so many layers that make up this book that is set in the Amish community of Weaver’s Creek, Ohio in the year 1865. Two soldiers have returned from fighting in the Civil War but their difficulties are far from over. Elizabeth Kaufman’s brother Jonas Weaver and an Englisher named Aaron Zook have adjustments to make in their return to civilian life after the trauma of war but Aaron faces the added battle of adapting to the loss of his leg . His anger is understandable but he also wants acceptance and slowly, we readers are shown the kind and thoughtful person that he truly is. An abusive relationship with her late husband had left Elizabeth wondering if she would ever enjoy a happy marriage. Will the hurt that Elizabeth experienced prevent her from trusting another man or is it possible that Aaron can break through the protective shell that she has placed around her heart ? Can this young widow avoid being manipulated a second time when another Amish gentleman sets his sights on her?
Author Jan Drexler has created some memorable characters, both good and bad, and placed them in situations that are sometimes unpleasant. In the end, however, this is a story with a strong faith message that outshines the bad. Softly Blows the Bugle is a wonderful way to conclude The Amish of Weaver’s Creek series and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy Amish romance and historical Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was never required and no monetary compensation was given. These are my own thoughts.
I loved this sweet story about the Amish in Weaver’s Creek. Elizabeth is a young widow who has a broken heart and trust issues. Aaron fought in the Civil War and was gravely wounded there. Traveling to Weaver’s Creek with Jonas after the war, Aaron feels like half a man and although he wants a “normal” life, he does not think that is a possibility for him. There is also a mystery involving a newcomer to the community named Solomon who immediately sets his eyes on Elizabeth and insists that she should marry him quickly. The story is fast-paced and engaging, with plenty of information about the Amish gentle and accepting way of life. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and especially enjoyed the themes of redemption and a new chance at a new life. Although this is book #3 of a series, I have not read the other books and had no difficulty understanding the relationships between the characters and the plot itself. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Amish fiction, a clean read and an altogether enjoyable story.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
“Softly Blows the Bugle” is about the Amish community at Weaver’s Creek, where the filial bonds of family ties and inspiring faith bind up the brokenhearted.
A widow, with bitter experiences of her marriage to a cruel husband, Elizabeth Kaufman is well nigh determined never to get married again, even if it meant not having her own family.
But Aaron Zook’s arrival changed everything in a way Elizabeth could have never imagined in her faintest dreams. Aaron was determined to leave the pain of the past behind him. His innate strength, determination, resilience and perseverance are legendary. Aaron was kind, helpful and concerned about others. In spite of the severity of his injuries in the war, Aaron navigated his way through life with only one leg and a pair of crutches.
However, even in a simple Amish community, life can get complicated. Aaron has to fight the battle to win the heart of the woman he loves. Meanwhile, Elizabeth embarks on a journey towards hope and love, as Jan Drexler peels away layer after layer of the protective coating around Elizabeth’s heart.
Many characters experience a reawakening of their faith, which is so inspiring, on a personal level. A powerful faith thread runs through the book. I highly recommend this book for fans of Amish, Christian, historical and post-Civil war fiction.
Jan Drexler deftly combines Amish and historical fiction in this series and I have loved all three of the novels in the series. This book has something for everyone, family, faith, friends and a touch of mystery.
Elizabeth made a poor choice in her personal relationships that have resulted in unhappiness for her and led her to keep secrets from her family. I genuinely liked her but there were times when I wanted to give her some friendly advice, especially when it came to Solomon. He was definitely an unlikeable character but kudos to Ms. Drexler for putting him in the storyline because he kept my emotions off the charts each time, he would make an appearance.
I loved Aaron, wounded and broken from the war, lonely, listless and searching for a place to call home. He is an incredible character and I loved watching him grow throughout the book, while gaining confidence and more importantly acceptance.
Throughout the entire series, the Amish of Weaver’s Creek have been such a wonderful family, they have faced hard times but through it all, the have their faith and each other. I recommend reading the books in order but this can be read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are completely my own.
I found this series very interesting as I learned about the Amish, and their pacifist views, during and after the Civil War. We were introduced to Elizabeth in the first book in the series, so it was great to be able to read more about her in this third book. I do recommend reading these books in order as the characters overlap during the series. I think the romance was a little predictable, but nonetheless, I enjoyed reading about the characters’ growing relationship throughout the novel. I liked the integration of spiritual themes. The author is a gifted storyteller and has an ability to keep your attention. Even though this is not my typical go-to genre, I still enjoyed this novel and have liked the series! I recommend this book to those who love Amish fiction, or to those who wish to give this genre a try!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I had the pleasure of reading the first two books from Jan Drexler’s series, The Amish of Weaver’s Creek. I really enjoyed them both and the third installment, Softly Blows the Bugle, does not disappoint. This one is by far my favorite of the series. Even though it is part of a series, I believe readers can read each book as a stand alone. I loved getting to know Elizabeth and Aaron. They were great characters. I enjoyed the twists that I did not see coming. I could not predict what would happen next in the following scenes.
I am giving The Amish of Weaver’s Creek a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean Historical Amish Fiction. I thought it was a great read.
I received The Amish of Weaver’s Creek from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Softly Blows the Bugle brings all promises of a good series to fruition. Jan Drexler’s story of the Amish Community at Weaver’s Creek has been a treat to read. The timing of this series, during, through and at the end of an important time in our country’s history is worth reading. The Amish, pacifists at the core of their faith, were impacted by the Civil War, however remote it was geographically. The remnants of a terrible war scattered across the continent and touched the lives of the untouched.
I watched Elizabeth Kaufman’s plight with interest since The Sound of Distant Thunder, book one in the series. Her marriage to an abusive Englischer separated her from her beloved family. Loneliness became her normal way of life. When Aaron Zook came home with her brother, it seemed to me that her life was about to change. Yet, it was not Aaron who captured her attention and that took the story to another level. One where someone portrayed a life of someone who was just too good to be true.
Considering the war had ended, there were those who pursued the leftover treasures to plunder. To those most crafty, there were ways to fill their coffers, bit by bit stealing from those who had just enough to add to a pile of ill gotten wealth. Jan Drexler’s engaging style of writing keeps the reader’s attention until the puzzle is solved and the hearts are truly won.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction. Although this book could be read as a standalone, it recommend reading The Amish of Weaver’s Creek series.
I received this book to read and review. I have read a lot of Jan Drexler books, and this one is one of my favorite ones. Elizabeth Kauffman never thought she would find love again after her husband was killed in the war, but along came Aaron Zook. Even with his injuries he did what had to be done and what a wonderful faith he had.. really a great story.. I recommend it to everyone.
This is the third book in the Amish of Weaver’s Creek series. It is a good stand-alone book, but I read the first in the series and recommend doing that.
The main characters in this book are Elizabeth and Aaron. Both are very well developed and believable. The minor characters are also well done and the sub-stories going on make for an interesting, if not mostly predictable read. I did feel that at least one aspect of the story wasn’t completely resolved but it was not a major issue.
This is a good, clean book. It is a Christian fiction book genre.
I received a copy of this book from Revell, the publisher, in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. My review is freely given and fully my own opinion.
I give this book a 3 out of 5-star review and I would recommend it to my friends.
I really loved this book. It has some suspense mystery, and love story. It doesn’t take place in a innocent typical way. I love the lesson of self worth that I received.
I enjoyed this Amish story of romance and intrigue. I received this for free and I voluntarily chose to review it. I’ve given it a 5 * rating. This story takes place near the end of the Civil war, and you can see some of the side effects of those who came back from the war. I find this author paints pictures with her words, and you can feel some of the emotion of her characters. This is a second in the series I have read, and it puts light on many things that are not talked about from that time period. I’ve really been enjoying this author’s work.
I was happy to hear the clarion call of the bugle inviting me back to what should have been the uncomplicated Amish lives in Weaver’s Creek. However, Jonas has returned home after 3 yrs serving as a medic in the Civil War. He can only marry Katie if the church approves him for membership, and everyone knows the Amish don’t believe in war. Jan Drexler ups the drama in her third book of the Amish of Weaver’s Creek, Softly Blows the Bugle.
While this could be read separately, it is so much richer when read following the first two books. Aaron Zook, a close non-Amish friend of Jonas’s, has followed him home.
Aaron has issues to sort through, some caused by the war, some inherited. His very presence causes conflict for widowed Elizabeth, who must decide if she wants to court respectable Amishman Solomon Mast or wait on Aaron, who is neither Amish nor settled.
So many different threads going in this story, and I loved them each and every one. I finished the book in one day, as I couldn’t pull myself away from the events at Weaver’s Creek as they became more and more intense. While Jonas’s patience and trust in Gott amazed me, I felt like Aaron and Elizabeth grew the most throughout the novel. I loved how Ms. Drexler feeds the reader just enough doubt and clues at the right times to make one feel as if they have suddenly figured out something essential. I also liked the inclusion of the Amish gossip. Doesn’t every group have at least one person who needs to learn to control their tongue? Anxiously awaiting Ms. Drexler’s next series. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and publisher through JustRead Publicity Tours and NetGalley. I also received an ARC from LibraryThing. All opinions are my own and unsolicited.
Notable quotables:
“That’s a mother’s kiss, young man. And a mother’s kiss lasts forever.”
“No man is whole when he is by himself. All of us are broken on the inside until we find our place with God…”
My Thoughts
After months of not reading Amish fiction, I wanted to read something with the calmness of the Amish faith (even if I don’t agree with all of their beliefs.)
I ended up really loving “Softly Blows the Bugle” and I hope to get a paperback soon, the story was not anything like the normal Amish fiction you come across, the way that this book went into what it might have been like for the Amish during the civil war was something that intrigued me.
I could tell there was going to be a good bit of mystery but I didn’t expect it to get to be as dark as it did though it ended up to end nicely. The sudden ending fits well with the story and I look forward to more from Jan Drexler.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.