Torn between their faith and the music they believe is a God given gift. What would you do in their situation. Well written book.

Helping a family friend brings two Amish young adults together, as well as their shared love for music, which is forbidden.



Levi Shetler longs to play the music that calls to him in his head, naturally gifted he has never had a piano lesson yet he has been blessed with an uncanny talent. But that kind of music is forbidden.



Mary Hershberger is a young woman from a more lenient district than Levi's Old Order District, she also loves to listen and sing along with banned melodies. She and Levi bond over their shared love of music and their friendship with an elderly English woman.



A series of misunderstandings threaten to keep them apart, does their love have a chance?



A heartwarming Amish read, about family, friendship, and love. Mary and Levi come from different spectrums of the Amish, Mary's family is more modern and wealthy, while Levi's large family is more modest and traditional. I loved Adeline and how she embraces Levi, Mary, and Natalie as her friends, finding comfort in their friendship. Adeline is a wonderful woman with a natural gift for hospitality, she doesn't have much but she shares what she has. I loved how she mentored and encouraged Levi, Natalie, and Mary with love and faith.



Natalie is a hardworking young woman who is branching out on her own after a difficult childhood caught between two fighting parents. She connects with Adeline reluctantly, but quickly is charmed by Adeline's genuine heart for others, expecting nothing in return. I really like how this book shows how she has grown through her pain.



Overall, this was a quick, enjoyable read from one of my favorite Amish story writers, Beth Wiseman. I liked how she handled the difficult topics that came up in this book, and in the context of this story it worked well. Great start to a series, with many memorable characters, and great interaction. I definitely recommend this highly enjoyable read!



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book in a day, but I could not put this one down. Beth Wiseman is one of my favorite Amish fiction authors and she delivers again with this book. Wonderful story, fantastic characters, and a heart-wrenching emotional end. There were several times I laughed out loud, and even more times that I cried. Beth has a way of writing that draws you in, so that you can picture the story unfolding as if you are actually there. Definitely recommended reading!!

When Mary Hershberger and Levi Shetler first meet, at the age of ten, he’s a musical prodigy, but his talent must go unused and unheard in his Amish community. She finds him playing the piano and promises to keep his secret. Since their communities are 40 miles away from each other, Levi promises to write her letters. Eight years later, Mary and Levi meet again, at a sale an English friend of both families is holding. They both start visiting the older lady every Saturday to keep her company and help her around her home and quickly become friends. They share a love of music that’s forbidden in both of their communities, even though Mary’s bishop is much more lenient than Levi’s. Can they both put aside their love of music? Can they overcome the differences in their communities and backgrounds as they fall in love?

This sweet story is an excellent beginning to a new series by Beth Wiseman. I really enjoyed how the relationship between Mary and Levi developed from having met as children to friends, and then more. I also thought that Adeline was such a sweet, grandmotherly type of person and really enjoyed her interactions between Levi, Mary, and her young cousin, Natalie. They were brought together in a way that was both heartbreaking and sweet. I found myself laughing at times and near tears at others. I thought the differences between Mary’s and Levi’s communities were interesting. I’m looking forward to reading more about these characters and getting to know them better.

I love that a piano and English woman brought two amish people together. Odd because musical instruments were not allowed in their beliefs.
This book was filled with love, kindness, and caring for others.

Hearts in Harmony is different in a good way. Different since the majority of the Amish sectors and districts shun musical instruments being played, so Beth Wiseman did an excellent job describing the emotions Levi Shetler was experiencing within himself.

I enjoyed every minute of reading Hearts in Harmony so much I didn't want to put it down.
The last half to the ending was very touching.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series by Beth.

I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review in my own words.

5 Stars ****** 5/5 stars
I love this first book in An Amish Journey series! It is full of new twists on the Amish lifestyle. There is romance, music (forbidden music, in fact), illness, care and respect for the elderly, and interest between Amish and Englisch people. I felt like Beth Wiseman introduced some topics in her book which are unique to Amish fiction and it was refreshing to read.
I highly recommend this book and am eagerly anticipating the second book in the series. Those who enjoy Christian and/or Amish fiction are sure to love this book.
I received a free digital copy of this book from netgalley and Zondervan in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

What is family? Traditionally, we look at family as blood relatives. However, author Beth Wiseman has created a delightful story which shows that family isn't just limited to the traditional definition, but it can be so much more.

Adeline, Levy, Mary, and Natalie. At one time, all were strangers, each with his or her own challenges, struggles, and beliefs. However, a series of events unexpectedly brings these individuals together. As they come together, their bond is strengthened through moments of sadness and laughter, moments where beliefs are questioned, moments where challenges are faced, and moments where difficult decisions are made.

Their story will immediately draw you in and keep you turning pages with its twists and turns. There are moments that will have you smiling and laughing while others will have you reaching for tissue. But through it all, the bonds of love, faith and trust in God will bring their hearts together in harmony through the love of family.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The start of a new series is something I look forward to. There is such potential. Hearts in Harmony is a lovely story about family. Not necessarily blood related family but family non the less. I loved the way the characters interacted and cared for each other. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series and seeing where the author takes these characters.

Sweet but thoughrful

Hearts in Harmony is a sweet romance, with lots of thoughtful insights. For example, what is family? What is God telling us to do -- should we follow the rules or our heart? Highly recommended!

Also reviewed on Amazon, but hasn't posted yet.

This story seemed to flow easily from the pen of Ms. Wiseman. The book was so full of various kinds of love. There was the love between a man and woman with a long marriage under their belt and told from one perspective. There is brand new love between a young man and a young woman, the love of parents for their children, and a bond of friendship like none these characters have ever experienced before. This story shows how you can form a family without sharing a bloodline. It also demonstrates the love God has for His people.

I truly delighted in this telling and am already looking forward to the second installment of this series. When it comes to delving into an Amish story, Beth Wiseman does not disappoint and I am oh so grateful for that gift!

I was given a copy of the book by the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.

I have yet to read a Beth Wiseman novel that I have not loved! She outdid herself once again!
Mary and Levi met ten years earlier when their parents took them to Adeline's house at the death of Pearcy, her husband. Levi was playing the piano, something strictly forbidden by the Amish. He asked Mary not to tell. She gave him her address asking him to write. Every day she went to the mailbox, and there was never a letter.
Ten years later, they meet up again, also at Adeline's. Their parents asked each of them to go check on her. Unfortunately, she has fallen on hard times and has had to sell most of her furniture and antiques just to stay afloat.
Levi volunteers his Saturday's to paint her house, free of charge, and to other repairs around her house. Mary offers her Saturday's to take Adeline to the store, for a buggy ride and company. Adeline is so happy and thankful that Gott has brought these young people into her life as she has been so lonely.
Then, a distant relative, Natalie, begins to come by to visit. In the beginning, she had succumbed to her mother's ill intentions in getting to know Adeline. But, Natalie began to truly love Adeline and enjoyed Mary and Levi, also. The three young people spend much time with her, and all truly come to love her deeply.
It was so touching how these three young people cared, and showed their love for Adeline. It was, indeed, a blessing in Adeline's great time of need.
It was interesting to learn how different Amish communities can be from what is allowed and what is not. Mary and Levi came from two very different backgrounds, although both are Amish. They began to care very much for each other. Levi has concerns because Mary's family has money and his is very poor in financial wealth, but very wealthy in love for one another.
Mary's family is going through a struggle with her younger sister and is embarrassed to have Levi meet her family. Levi mistakes this and feels Mary is ashamed of him. On the other hand, Levi fears Mary won't be accepting of his large, loud, unorganized family.
I so enjoyed the bond Mary, Levi, and Natalie had with Adeline and the great lengths they went to for her. And the surprise she left them. It was so easy to get caught up in this story. You'll feel like you are there with them.
I was given a free copy of this to ready by the publisher, Zondervan and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

The Lord brings hearts together in harmony to create a family of love, friendship and hope.


Levi and Mary from two different Amish Old Order districts meet at a funeral at a young age. A friend of their parents Percy had passed away leaving his beloved wife Adeline and piano. Being Amish, it is against their way to play an instrument. Levi was drawn to this piano as a young boy and when no one was in the room, he played and he played quite well. Not knowing where this desire came and why he was gifted, he hid his ability to play until Mary saw him play. A friendship began in the English home of Percy and Adeline. A friendship with a promise to write to each other. 10 years later and no letters written, they meet again and with a great God purpose.

Adeline is now failing in health and her two Amish friends have come to help her with her home to maintain and repair. A friendship develops as Adeline and Percy never had any children of their own. A weekly visit between all three as they learn and find joy in each other. A long lost cousin of Percy's also comes into their lives. Natalie a college student was coerced by her mother to start a friendship with Adeline in hopes of becoming heirs to her home. Natalie in developing a friendship with the Amish and Adeline learns what family really means. A far cry from the family that she came from.

As their friendship develops and becomes more like family, each one finds healing. Mary's family is going thru a family crisis that brings shame but ultimately tests the faith of her family. Levi's desire to play the piano has he questions why God would keep him from such a gift. A lesson on pride and the ultimate gift that God brings. Together he and Mary's struggle with shame and find hope in a lasting relationship with each other. Adeline has she knows her days are numbered and is overwhelmed with joy that God has given her friends. Friends that remain true and love her unconditionally. She shares her memories of Percy and the love that she had with him. Natalie whose parents are divorced and bitter desires something better for her life. She finds in her new friends a simplicity of love, loyalty, and acceptance.

Together they bring a joy-filled romance, friendship, and family all wrapped around a grand piano. A piano that brings a harmony among chaos. One of my favorites.

A Special Thank you to Zondervan and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

This is such a sweet story !!
It really grabbed my attention from the first page and I couldn't put it down.
I loved the friendships between the characters and I loved the bittersweet ending. The trials, turbulence, and emotions were very realistic which I appreciate and it was a very touchinging story. I can't say again how much I loved this book!
I beyond highly recommend reading this book!!
I volunteered to read this book from Zondervan Fiction in return for my honest feed back. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

Beth Wiseman, who just happens to top my list of favorite authors, has once again written an amazing, heart warming novel, a fabulous start to a new series entitled "Amish Journeys". I always approach a new series with some trepidation.... will this new creation meet my high expectations?! After all, every one of Beth's books has been a winner in my opinion, so how can another possibly be as powerful and interesting as her last? NO WORRIES! "Hearts in Harmony" was NO disappointment. After reading the first page, I was on my way travelling to Amish country in Indiana and walking alongside the lovable characters as they took their roller coaster ride through life.

It is known that the Plain People have just as many trials and obstacles as we do, however, this story brings to light some particular problems that I myself have never really thought about. How many of us have thought about the music that plays a very large part of our church service? Music is very much discouraged and forbidden in this Plain life. Yes, the Amish do sing, but do not have musical instruments, nor is an individual encouraged to ever play one. That would be much too worldly and prideful. Beth tackles this subject in a unique, respectful manner.

Make sure to have a box of tissues nearby as you will have need of them from the first chapter to the last. The two main characters are brought together in an unusual way, both sensitive, caring individuals who are faced with some difficult decisions, should they do what they love even though it is deeply frowned upon in their faith? All of the characters in this novel are so easy to love. The reader is so caught up in their quests to be happy in the darkest hour that you feel very deep emotions and thoughts.

The setting was perfect, far from the close knit Amish community. This added more confusion to do what was right , would anyone know if rules were broken? The relationships that developed amongst the many characters was highly emotional and touching. There are underlying messages that are intricately woven into this story of faith, forgiveness, and loving self and others regardless of the circumstances.

The plot was intense, full of unexpected twists and turns, making it very difficult for the reader to put down. Just when you think the characters have found a sense of completeness and peace, a boulder is put in the path! One that seems impossible to get past.

If you are tired of the usual Amish fiction genre, this is the perfect book to grab your attention. Beth Wiseman does a superior job of bringing some humour into the highly emotional, intense moments. This book will remain with you long after you have finished reading it.

Definitely worthy of five stars. Now, the biggest problem is waiting for Book Two in this series!!!



This book was provided by the author and NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own. A positive review was not required.

Mary and Levi meet while at a estate sale for Ms Adeline. Her husband passed away and she is running low on money. They met years ago in the same house at the gentleman's funeral. She heard him playing the piano and she gave him her address so he could write her. Which he never did. Seeing the shape of the house now Levi and Mary both volunteer to help Adeline. As time passes they notice some things that are off and try their best to keep things up. One day a distant cousin of her husband shows up . Her mom and dad are divorced and her mom is using her to get info on Adeline. She is hoping to get money from her . Natalie is not happy at all with this plan especially after she meets Adeline. As time goes by Mary and Levi really fall for each other. They are from different types of family. Mary has a small family who has plenty and Levi has a large family that has not as much. But they both have the same love for Ms. Adeline and she for them. The trio of young people find out Ms. Adeline is really sick and take her home and take care of her until she passes . After her passing the young couple find out she has left them the house.. Natalie also get the money she needs for her education. This book shows how people from different backgrounds can love and respect each other. I enjoyed the characters in this book and how they worked together.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this
review are completely my own.

I do not normally read many Christian Fiction books but it has been very popular with our patrons at the library so I had to read at least one new book to see what the phenomenon is all about and I am so glad that I chose this novel to read because the story line was so inspiring that I could not put this book down and my heartstrings were tugged at every page. Hearing all about the Amish and the strict code they all must entail to respect their people and their culture. Also forbidding of playing any instrument or music all together is hard for Levi and then he meets Mary who has kept his little secret and loves Levi for the person that he is and comes from a very liberal family that is way outside of the spectrum of the culture Levi knows and loves. When God does provide, all ends well in the world.

We will consider adding this title to our Christian Fiction collection at the library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.

What a great start to a new series! I can’t wait for the next installment. Wiseman is a master storyteller and as readers we reap the splendid rewards. I enjoyed the characters of Mary, Natalie, Levi and Adeline. They have a bond that is very special and care deeply for one another. I liked learning more about the Amish communities. Thanks to Zondervan Fiction and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

A very good story which blends different ordains with English ways and shows how God moves throughout. Another wonderful book by the author.

The newest book from the author is a like a sweet melody with words. Her characters blend well together and capture a story of friendship and love.

The Amish have very different beliefs than most and I found it amazing that they weren’t allowed to play an instrument. Levi has secretly played piano since he was a child. His hands sweep across the keys with compassion, but he starts to wonder if he is going against what the bishop has said. It would be so hard to have a gift but not be able to use it. I liked how Levi continually asked a God to show him if he was to play or walk away from it in order to be obedient.

Mary is a wonderful young woman who has known Levi since they were children. I liked how Levi and Mary reconnected after years apart. They have come back together to help out sweet Adeline. Oh how I loved this elderly woman. She was my favorite character because she had so much love to give. She has been lonely for awhile and when these young people show up to help her, it made my heart fill with joy.

Natalie is a little more complicated and I struggled at times trying to like her. She is sent by her mother to spend time with Adeline, who is related to them. It doesn’t hurt that she begins a friendship with Mary and Levi as they get together on Saturdays to do chores for Adeline. As she started to spend quality time with Adeline I could feel her heart soften .

The ending of the story is filled with emotion and shows how valuable it is to reach out to others in their time of need. Adeline not only brings three young people together but gains a family in the process. Her heart is happy as they bond and become like her children. I won’t spoil anything but I will say this is the best book I’ve read by the author. Her heart and soul went into this story and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.