A fun and heartwarming Amish rom-com where opposites really do attract. If there is one thing Christian Ropp will not allow in his classroom—or his life—it’s chaos. So why is he drawn to Ruby Glick, a woman who seems to bring mayhem wherever she goes?Christian Ropp moves to Birch Creek to accept a teaching position in the rapidly growing Amish community. He’s determined to put the rambunctious … growing Amish community. He’s determined to put the rambunctious school in order as well as check another task off his list: finding a wife. Of course, that would be much easier if women were like textbooks, straightforward and logical.
When an accident puts Christian out of commission, a new community member named Ruby Glick takes over his classroom. But Ruby’s exuberant teaching style clashes with Christian’s careful methods and he worries his students will never be the same.
With a track record of catastrophe, Ruby always feels too clumsy, too distracted, too . . . much. Desperate for a chance to prove that she can do more than make mistakes in her life, she throws herself into her new teaching position. But when Christian can’t seem to stay out of her way, she finds herself slipping into old, chaotic tendencies.
What she doesn’t anticipate is that Christian’s heart is slowly catching up with his mind—and she, too, must decide whether to follow logic or love.
- The first in the Amish Brides of Birch Creek series (followed by The Farmer’s Bride and The Innkeeper’s Bride)
- A full-length novel, approximately 78,000 words
- A sweet and wholesome Amish romance
- Catch up on the Birch Creek community with the Amish of Birch Creek series and Amish Letters series
Praise for The Teacher’s Bride:
“A heartwarming story of unexpected romance woven with fun and engaging characters who come to life on every page.” –Amy Clipston, bestselling author of A Seat by the Hearth
“Kathleen Fuller has written a sweet, oftentimes humorous, romance that reminds readers that the perfect match might be right in front of their noses.” –Kelly Irvin, bestselling author of the Every Amish Season series
“Kathleen Fuller is a master storyteller and fans will absolutely fall in love with Ruby and Christian in The Teacher’s Bride.” –Ruth Reid, bestselling author of the Amish Mercies series
“Kathy Fuller’s characters leap off the page with subtle power as she uses both wit and wisdom to entertain!” –Kelly Long, national bestselling author
“The story will captivate you from the first page to the last with Ruby, Christian, and engaging characters. You’ll laugh, gasp, and wonder what will happen next.” –Molly Jebber, Speaker and Award Winning Author of Grace’s Forgiveness and the Amish Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series
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A heartwarming story of unexpected romance woven with fun and engaging characters who come to life on every page.
THE TEACHER’S BRIDE by Kathleen Fuller is the first book in the Amish Brides of Birch Creek series. It’s the story of Christian Ropp and Ruby Glick and the little town of Birch Creek.
Christian accepted the position of teacher at a little, but growing Amish school to fulfill his dream of being a teacher, to spread his love of learning and to get away from the father who he so greatly disappointed by not following in the family profession of being a butcher and who can’t accept his chosen profession. Christian’s life is orderly and he approaches life logically. However, both those traits aren’t helping him to mark off finding a wife from his list.
Ruby is an accident waiting to happen. During her youth she was always having trouble conforming to the Amish rules and was either creating a big mess or a major disaster (like setting a barn on fire – twice). But now she’s an adult determined to change all that starting with finding a husband. With men in short supply at home, she ventures out showing up on her brother’s doorstep unannounced determined to change and achieve her goals.
An accidental meeting had both Christian and Ruby finding traits in each other that they admired and that irritated them at the same time. At this first meeting under the big tree, Ruby offered to help Christian learn about women so that he could approach a local girl he thought would make a good wife – Martha. Since his book research hadn’t help him, he agreed to her “tutoring” him at the tree the next weekend.
Ruby knew she couldn’t help her sister-in-law and become a midwife, because she couldn’t see blood without passing out. She loved to bake, but couldn’t find a position at the bakery to utilize that skill. When Christian accidently slipped on a marble and badly sprained his ankle, Ruby filled in as substitute teacher for him. That’s when she found out what she wanted to do with her life. She loved children and very good with them. Once she applied herself to teaching this class, she knew she would love to be a teacher.
Add to the mix the wonderful part of the story of Christian’s sister, Selah. Friendly one minute and hostile the next, disappearing acts, hatefulness towards Ruby – all a cry for help. Christian finally sees that yes she is an adult, but he is her big brother and he needs and wants to help her. It also takes accepting help on Selah’s part. Love the way the author brings the reality of depression into this story through Selah.
Somewhere along the way, Christian and Ruby both start having more than friend feeling for each other. But was that possible? Logical, unemotional Christian and feel from the heart, accident waiting to happen Ruby as a couple? Do opposites attract? Complicated for sure. Funny part of the time and frustrating the other part, but this love story will keep you pulling for them to see what everyone around them seems to see but them. Both are the underdog at times for completely different reasons. Once you learn a bit about their upbringing & youth years, you understand a bit more about how they are who they are.
THE TEACHER’S BRIDE is well written story that anyone that loves a clean romance or an Amish story will greatly enjoy. I know I did! Can’t wait for Book #2 in the series. From the epilogue, I think we will be hearing about Seth Yoder in the next installment and I can’t wait.
I love a book that makes me laugh as well as draws me into a story that I don’t want to put down and this book does both. I enjoyed the quirky characters of Christian and Ruby and the descriptions of some of their fiascos painted a picture in my mind that had me chuckling and feeling sorry for them at the same time. It was nice to revisit Birch Creek and catch a glimpse of some characters I already love, especially Cevilla. Ms. Fuller steps outside the box of typical Amish fare and makes it inviting and interesting. A great start to the new series. I look forward to reading more in the Amish Brides of Birch Creek Series.
I won a copy of this book from a blog and am so blessed I did. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I love the Birch Creek community, and this story was so much fun to read! I am so glad she started another series with Birch Creek and can’t wait for more.
I received a review copy from NetGalley.
#TheTeachersBride #NetGalley
This modern Amish tale has everything fans of this subgenre enjoy. There is the structure of the community life as well as the relationships of families and friends. The romance is prominent in the novel and has a slight Austen’s Emma- like plot featuring matchmaking and a special friendship between a man and woman. Christian and Ruby are both considered odd in their community. Christian does not have certain social graces and being a teacher is an unique career path for Amish men. Ruby lacks some physical graces and has caused several disasters. They are both looking for spouses, but first find friendship in each other. Serious issues like mental health and family conflict are balanced with witty dialogue and comical scenes.
All posts and opinions are my own
Kathy Fuller’s characters leap off the page with subtle power as she uses both wit and wisdom to entertain!
It’s funny how life works, or in this case how it might turn out. Finding one’s place to fit in happens to individuals in every setting, and whereas we may think the Amish have it figured out, this book shows us differently. I found myself laughing at places as I could see the faces, the descriptions were so vivid. A very enjoyable book that keeps one wondering what will happen next…
I thoroughly enjoyed this story- the author did an amazing job of bringing the characters and setting to life and keeping my interest on each page. I love how she writes somewhat quirky characters and shows the different ways they relate to life. Christian is kind of socially awkward because of his pragmatic personality, I thought it was hilarious how he set out to make new friends in the community. He and Ruby are so different, yet they grew to understand each other and their contrasting attributes bring balance to their relationship and helped them develop new strengths.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
I always enjoy Amish books and this was no exception. The quirkiness of the male teacher was a refreshing change. Good for a repeat read!
An entertaining and refreshingly clean book about two somewhat inconsistent but likeable characters – I enjoyed getting to know them and following their storylines. It was pleasant to read a book whose characters weren’t overly cute and silly. I plan to read the other two books in the series (one which just came out and the third due in 2020).
It was so good to get back to a Kathleen Fuller novel. I haven’t read one in a bit, and this was a refreshing jump back to her work. This is the first in a what’s sure to be a wonderful series, and every minute of this book had me hooked.
From the start, I loved Ruby’s character. I saw a lot of myself in her, and I really felt connected with her. Watching her, following her story, seeing how hard she tries to do good, but something always fails, it all really had me turning the pages long into the night.
When Christian enters the picture, the story just gets that much better! The quirks of the story really shine through him, making this a story that had me laughing out loud, cheering for him and Ruby and praying that they get what they want.
This book is definitely a 4 star book. If you want a quick, fast paced read and one that will instantly hook you, look no further. Ms. Fuller’s books are filled with hope, laughter, beautifully chiseled characters and a tender message that will leave you wanting more. I can’t wait to see the next book in the series! Well done, Ms. Fuller! Well done!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Fiction Guild and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Kathleen Fuller
The Teacher’s Bride was an interesting story, in that the two main characters were ones who really struggled with how to interact with other people, especially those of the opposite sex.
Well, Christian Ropp actually struggled with his interactions with everyone. Although very book smart, he lacked understanding and compassion toward those who didn’t do things as he felt that they should be done. He was a bit hard for me to like for a large portion of the book.
I liked Ruby Glick a lot and felt sorry for her when clumsiness or hiccups occurred during intense bouts of nervousness. She was a fun character and I was very happy for her when she finally found something that she could be passionate about and good at.
The storyline with Christian’s sister, Selah, was compelling. I was happy to see how the author added it into the book in a way that allowed us to get a more personal view of Christian’s feelings, while also addressing what was going on with Selah.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Kathleen Fuller never fails me. I know that when I pick up one of her books I’m going to be pulled into a community of people that I can relate too (even despite our vast difference in lifestyle) and appreciate. I adore getting to go back to Birch Creek, and despite the fact that technically I started a new series I’m with my same ol’ friends (I mean even Cevilla made a cameo!). I like that Kathleen focuses several series around the same community. She continues to branch out with new themes with each series while keeping a central cast of characters that are familiar and comfortable. Fresh and familiar are an alluring combination for someone who isn’t keen on change (that would be me :D). I also love that she can dig into some deeper themes while still maintaining a coziness to her writing that is like a gentle reminder that even when things are hard there is still good all around us. And I think we all need to be reminded from time to time that especially when things are hard God has still got us.
If ever there was a pair of mismatched people it is Ruby and Christian. Ruby who is so effervescent and truly optimistic that she is not appreciated by those around her. I get her. OK, outside the whole bubbly optimistic thing, I’m more a pessimistic optimist but ya know, moments of square pegs in round holes. She’s scatterbrained and clumsy and just can’t seem to get it right, until she does. I get that. I am that. In running from home to her brother’s so perhaps she can start a future with a fresh start she’s really just trying to run from herself. She just doesn’t’ realize it. Location doesn’t magically turn you into a round peg. Thing is, she had to run from herself to find herself. Christian, on the other hand, doesn’t even realize he’s a square peg trying to fit into anything. He’s just a peg. He knows what he knows and does what he does and while he wants to grow a future he doesn’t even get that he doesn’t get it. But thinks that he can learn it from a book. Let’s face it, I could totally be Christian too 😀 Only thing is that Christian doesn’t need to run from anything, he’s got his mind set and his goals in place. He just doesn’t realize that he can’t achieve them simply by making them, and that not everything can be learned from a book . . . sadly.
I loved watching these two disasters figure out life. And each other. I loved that Kathleen stepped away from the traditional cliché idea that only women could be teachers. I mean, I’m sure male Amish teachers are pretty rare but she introduced the idea to the mainstream reader. And she showed the heartache that must come with that, stepping outside the traditional gender roles and away from family expectations to pursue a passion. She also built an intriguing secondary story line with Selah, Christian’s sister, and her struggles to figure out life as well. I enjoyed watching her grow and change. I enjoyed watching her run away from herself as well. I think we all do that sometimes. In trying to figure out this thing we call life, we try to escape what makes it hard when really it’s our own selves just trying to find our matching peg. Sometimes it’s ourselves we are trying to run from and run too. We just can’t seem to see the other side. Another highly recommended Kathleen Fuller book that kept me engrossed in the lives of my Birch Creek family. And the impatient waiting for the next book commences. . .
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Christian moved to Birch Creek to accept the teaching position and in hopes, it would widen his availability to find a wife. When a sprained ankle sidelines home for a few days, he has to depend on “accident waiting to happen” Ruby to cover his class. Will Christian be able to see past Ruby’s clumsiness to find the love she has to offer?
The Teacher’s Bride has plenty of laughs to offer between Christian and Ruby. You will be laughing out loud aplenty. I think many of yes will be able to relate to how both get nervous and tongue-tied and clumsy when wanting to impress someone.
My opinion on Christian’s sister, Selah, is still out. I had to remind myself several times as I was reading that she is only 19 years old and 19-year-olds can be very selfish and self-centered. I hope her story is explored more in a future novel.
I enjoy the way Kathleen Fuller writes. It like a warm hug on a cold night; comforting and welcoming. I would have no problems giving her books to young teen girls to read as they are clean and wholesome.
I received a copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
Kathleen Fuller is a master storyteller and fans will absolutely fall in love with Ruby and Christian in The Teacher’s Bride.
Kathleen Fuller has written a sweet, oftentimes humorous, romance that reminds readers that the perfect match might be right in front of their noses.
The story will captivate you from the first page to the last with Ruby, Christian, and engaging characters. You’ll laugh, gasp, and wonder what will happen next.
The Teacher’s.Bride..by Kathleen.Fuller…Zondervan
Ruby known for being a walking disaster, came to her brother’s house unannounced. Telling Patience, he didn’t want her there, now going against her husband wishes, and letting his sister stay. Ruby, telling herself, she had to learn to do better, and be accepted. She had a plan, a potential husband byChristmas
Chris is the teacher, and living with his sister. On coming home, and instructing her how to cut vegetables.why would she be annoyed with him
He didn’t connect with people, having nickname “iceman”,and figured why bother, he had his books. Without being socialable how could he get goal #4 done, marriage, one of mutual respect not love.Picking up a book Chris dropped before falling asleep, wanting to laugh at the title. An idea to tutor him, about women, and what they want. Chris now is stunned why did he accept her offer.
Delightful, the courtship of how he uses logic, and reasoning to Ruby.
A kiss, and telling him, people don’t do that unless they like each other.
For her it is love, will he ever learn,. You will laugh, as you read this story.
Given ARC by Net Galley and Zondervan for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
The author has us back in Birch Creek, and with some old friends, she has also given us a male, Christian Ropp, teacher, and although he seems to be a bit antisocial, he is looking for a wife.
Then we are presented with a young woman who is looking for a husband, Ruby Glick, she has left her home in Lancaster with the hopes of new beginnings. You will chuckle as some of her happenings, some are serious and others are just unhandy, but she is a bit of a klutz!
There is a very serious topic that does come up in this story, and it is in every culture and we see that there is help out there.
You will be wondering if these two unlikely young people will make a match, or will they each end up with the people they seem to desire.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review