In the latest novel in Virginia Wise’s stirring historical saga about America’s first Amish settlement, a once-privileged woman in a very different new world soon finds that hope—and love—are worth the challenge . . . Scandal drove Catrina Wittmer from her life as a wealthy Englischer’s pampered daughter—to reluctant membership in Pennsylvania’s thriving new Amish settlement. Surprisingly, … new Amish settlement. Surprisingly, Catrina finds contentment and peace in this promising new land, though she won’t risk telling anyone about her past. But the unexpected sparks between her and bashful warm-hearted farmer Eli Weber suddenly have her dreaming of an impossible chance at happiness—as his wife.
Eli never imagined such a spirited woman would look his way. Or that he could ever deserve her, given his own guilty mistakes. But Catrina’s vivacity and kindness has him impulsively proposing. Unfortunately, his over-righteous sister, and the consequences of secrets on both sides, threaten to tear their marriage apart for good. Now Catrina and Eli must try forgiving themselves and finding strength in their bond if they are to have a joyous future together . . .
ALSO IN THE AMISH NEW WORLD SERIES
WHERE THE HEART TAKES YOU
“Where the Heart Takes You will resonate with readers who love historical Amish fiction. Memorable story lines and engaging characters will capture the attention, delivering a reading experience that will live on in the heart and mind.”
—Laura V. Hilton, author of Firestorm
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When Love Finds You by Virginia Wise takes us back to 1738 in New Canaan, Pennsylvania. Catrina Witmer left Philadelphia with her grandparents amid a swirl of rumors. She wanted a fresh start away from the swirling gossip and finds that she likes living in the new Amish settlement. Eli Weber arrives with his sister, Gertrud Schulp. They are weavers who will provide much needed cloth to the community. Catrina and Eli are taken with each right way, but Gertrud along with their secrets stand in the way. As they spend time together, Eli is captivated by Catrina’s zest for life and her baking skills. Eli finds himself proposing one day and, when Catrina accepts his proposal, they are quickly wed. Their marriage is not an easy one with Gertrud living with them and the secrets each of them have failed to disclose. Will they get their happily ever after or will this newlywed couple be torn apart? When Love Finds You is the second novel in An Amish New World series, but it can be read on its own. I thought When Love Finds You was well-written with developed characters. The story flows along smoothly. One of my favorite characters is Abram. He is a larger than life type of man who leaped from the pages of the story. I just loved how his story played out. I like the weaving and spinning featured in the story. I enjoyed the author’s descriptions of the weaving process which is complex. The romance between Eli and Catrina is sweet. It builds slowly as they get to know each other. It is love based on what is inside a person instead of what is on the outside (though, Eli does find Catrina to be lovely). There are complications like Catrina’s past and Gertrud. Eli has something that holds him back as well. Miscommunications and misunderstandings abound in When Love Finds You. There is humor sprinkled throughout the story. It is especially prevalent when Abram is around. One of my favorite scenes is when the Bishop arrives to speak with Gertrud, Eli and Catrina. The ending was delightful. When Love Finds You is a heartwarming Amish story about second chances, forgiveness, faith and love.
This is the second book in this series that I have read, and yes, they can be read alone.
The story takes place back when the Amish first came to America and their first settlement in Pennsylvania, and we see exactly how hard life was, what we take for granted.
With this book, a young weaver has come to the community and the people are thrilled, now some new clothes can be made. There are sheep her for wool, and flax planted for linen.
A young Amish woman with a checkered past, and the weaver, with guilt that he is unable to let go of, have a romantic spark. With all the problems, these two have you have to wonder whether they can ever overcome all the obstacles.
I did find some chuckles here in some of these characters and there is more than one couple with romance in the air.
I enjoyed reading about these early settlers to this country!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington. and was not required to give a positive review.
“It’s funny where life can take you. And if we let go of the past, we can enjoy where go. I can be angry that they hurt you or I can be thankful that it brought you to me.” ” I think it’s the latter.”
I think Eli’s advice is a good one except he couldn’t let go of the past himself and neither could his sister.
Fear is what kept them from enjoying life. Catrina too. If we lived in fear of what others do yo us or what they think of us then there’s no reason to move forward.
I too find myself thinking about the past all to often. Sometimes I just don’t understand why everyone else can move forward except me it’s because I find that I can’t forget. I feel like Lot’s wife always looking back. I need to stop that except it’s so very hard!!! My husband can let things roll off his shoulders and not let it bother him but me, I wear my heart on my sleeve so to speak.
I love that this book is about trust, redemption but most of all love. Love is the key word. No matter what may happen in our past Jesus forgives and loves us no matter what. He doesn’t remember. He doesn’t remember because he forgave our sons and looked forward and loves us unconditionally. I’m so grateful for that aren’t you my reader friends?
Everyone deserves second chances. Especially at love. Love is strong and love is kind.
I loved all the characters in this book even Gertie
Gertie is quite the character but later in the story we soon learn why.
Sometimes it takes the right people to be in our lives at the right time. God has it planned perfectly
I highly recommend this beautiful story!!
I’m blessed by it.
My thanks to Netgalley and NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own!!
Written by a great Author, Virginia Wise, and truly a great book to recommend reading. It’s a story that keeps you focused and kept me up reading late every night. Very Highly recommended as a “Must Read” book.
M. Jean Smallwood 10/21/19