Loved reading this book. Amazing story and the characters lend to the charm of this book. I would highly recommend this book. You would not be disappointed.

Softly Blows the Bugle, #3 in The Amish of Weaver's Creek series was the best one as far as I am concerned. In this story, Elizabeth Kaufman is notified that her husband Rueben is dead. She is also in for another surprise when she finds out that he had married again and had a child, all while still married to her. She moves back home and becomes baptized. She is as happy as she thinks she deserves and is fine with not having a family. She loves her friend Ruby and Ruby's children become her surrogate family. The Civil War is almost over and Elizabeth's brother has finally been sent home after several years working with the Union Army, most of them in the role of a medic. Aaron Zook, a confederate soldier, comes home with her brother, but he was injured and had lost one leg below the knee. Aaron's family was Amish, but his grandfather had left his community years before, so Aaron is not part of an Amish community, but was raised in a Christian home. Aaron is attracted to Elizabeth, but she will have nothing to do with a man who is not baptized into the Amish faith. Another man, a newcomer, is showing interest in Elizabeth, but he has secrets. Will Elizabeth sort out what she wants before it is too late.

I liked this story. It is an Amish, Historical Fiction, Romance story, but it also has a mystery. I really liked Aaron, a broken, wounded hero, feeling lost and without hope. As he gets to know the Amish community and how their faith is such an integral part of their life, he begins to hear. I have liked Elizabeth since meeting her in the first book in this series, but in this book, I got frustrated with her. She always seemed like a strong woman, but in this book she seemed naive and at times timid and immature. The way she believed Solomon when others were trying to show her he was being untruthful, made me want to shake her. She is too good and generous at times. I know she didn't think she would have a chance to marry again, so seemed to jump at the opportunity instead of thinking things through. This book had some twists and unexpected situations which had me dropping everything to see how this would end. There are some scenes of physical abuse which might be a trigger to some readers, but they are not graphic. The ending was tense and well written.

This unusual Amish series, set during the Civil War, has been quite an interesting one. I was hoping that Elizabeth would have her own story; and I think that this book is now my favorite in the series. Elizabeth has made some wrong decisions in her life. But since the death of her abusive husband, she’s made peace her family and hopes to live her life supporting their Amish community. Aaron Zook’s stay in Weaver’s Creek was supposed to be temporary, but he finds himself drawn to the people there and especially to Elizabeth. There’s a surprising twist to this story that sets Aaron’s life in direction he never imagined.

The author did a wonderful job bringing these characters to life as they worked their way through difficulties and the issues that existed in this time period. If you like reading Amish fiction, give this historical series a try. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the normal Amish romance stories.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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.

I enjoy Amish fiction and Jan Drexler is one of my favorite authors in this genre. Her stories aren't cookie cutter but instead come from a unique angle that brings interest that can sometimes be lacking in this category.

Softly Blows the Bugle is the third and final book in the Amish of Weaver's Creek series. The story picks up from the previous books just after the Civil War has ended. We've already met the main character Elizabeth Kaufman so we know some of the grief that she has experienced. We are introduced to Aaron Zook. He comes home from the war with Elizabeth's brother Jonas but plans to move on and explore the West.

The story is full of grace and redemption for two emotionally and physically broken people. That brokenness is what makes the story relatable. We've all made bad decisions. And we've all had circumstances that have left us scarred.

I am of the opinion that you would enjoy this book the most by reading the previous two first. Having said that I do think the author gives enough information that you could probably read this book only and still understand the plot. But you'd be cheating yourself! I'm looking forward to Jan's next series and hoping that some of these characters will pop up again.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

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.

Elizabeth is determined to stay single after losing her husband in the Civil War but after her brother comes back with a wounded friend in tow, she finds herself changing her mind. Aaron is unsure of the Amish life and has much healing to do after returning from the war. He never imagines that he will find someone to care about and be able to leave the war behind.

I received a copy of the book to read, the review is mine.

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.

Jan Drexler has done it again. She's written another winner.
Any author can write a book about a different time period than we are currently in. It takes a very skilled author to write about a different time period, in this case the Civil War time period, and make it authentic. The descriptions from the gunshots to the food descriptions to the style of clothing make you feel as if you are in this time period.
The author has done her research and this time period is well represented in the Amish of Weaver's Creek series.
I recommend them all!

Pub Date 20 Oct 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

I am a huge fan of this author. I have always loved every book that she has put out. I was thrilled to be chosen to read a copy of "The Refrain Within." This book is book three in the Music of Hope series. I have read the first book but not the second book. This book is set in Hungary in 1944. n this book we see Eva Bognar. She plays the Clarinet and is engaged to composer Patrik Kedves. All is well in Eva's world. She does not think that the raging world war is going to affect her or her wedding. Then her Jewish best friend and sister-in-law Zofia, who happens to be Jewish goes missing. Rumors start to swirl that Patrik is involved. Eva's whole life changes in this moment. My heart went out to her. I can't imagine thinking that the person that I was to marry could have had something to do with my best friend's disappearance. Suddenly Eva is not sure who she can trust. She knows that her family must flee to safety - can she make it?

I love the overall theme of trusting God. I can't imagine being in Eva's shoes. How terrifying.

This book is VERY well researched. When I read a historical fiction book - I tend to do some fact checking to see how accurate it is. This book is SPOT on. While I know a lot about WWII - I am not familiar with Hungary and their role in WWII. Because of this book - I learned all about Operation Margarethe. This is where the Nazis occupied Hungary. It was ordered by Hitler in March of 1944. Hungary fought back and reclaimed their country at the end of the year. I love books that I can learn from. This one I learned a lot. I highly enjoyed this book.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own y own

3 stars
This is a good book.mostly. some historical inaccuracies which may not bother some.ovetall, a well written book.

Softly Blows the Bugle by Jan Drexler is the third book in the series: The Amish of Weaver’s Creek.

The story takes p0lace after the Civil War and finds Elizabeth Kaufman actually relieved that her husband has died in battle. He was an abusive husband and Elizabeth was finally free.

Two men come to Weaver’s Creek, Aaron Zook is an amputee veteran of the Union Army. Solomon Mast has purchased a farm nearby. Both men are trying to court Elizabeth. One of them has sinister reasons to have Elizabeth for a wife.

This story is both a historical novel and a mystery. I enjoyed reading it and always to enjoy Ms. Drexler’s work. I highly recommend it.

If you tarry till you're better, you will never come at all.

There is an excuse that is prevalent in life and in the church. When I have enough money, I will get married. When my job is stable, I will have children. When I am done sinning, I will come to the Lord. Elizabeth Kaufman and Aaron Zook share this excuse. Set after the civil war and the Amish settling in Lancaster County, PA, our main characters find themselves in the same dilemma - hiding past hurts and insecurities. Aaron fought with Elizabeth's brother in the civil war and has come back home to the Amish settlement half a man. A loss of a leg has set a great depression on him. Elizabeth has been baptized to the faith after the death of her husband. A widow of an abusive marriage, Elizabeth will not allow herself to marry again unless he is a strong believer. Elizabeth suffers from the loss of being whole because of the past. Then a new man comes into the community. A strong Amish man with big ideals and he has eye on Elizabeth.

Aaron and Elizabeth's relationship is a friendly one however, it changes when Aaron suspects the stranger Samuel with evil intentions. He just can't prove it. When Samuel continues to pursue Elizabeth and she believes the lies, it takes the faithfulness of a good friend and the reminder of scripture to turn and look at the author of our faith.

This probably is one of my favorite Amish books has it incorporated historical fiction and the not so perfect faith of Elizabeth and Aaron to drive what insecurities does to faith. How we look at ourselves to a mighty God and compare our lives to what others are or have. There is a working of faith in Elizabeth and Aaron's story that is endearing and painful. It is the suffering that we draw closer to Jesus and how we can embrace it. I hope if you decide to read their story, you will find some comfort in their faith and the faith of our Creator!

A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

“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.

As much as I enjoy Amish fiction it's been a while since I dived into one, so I was excited to pick this one up. I read the first book in this series around the time it released but missed the second. Although this is the third book in the series it could easily be read as a standalone. I loved the plot in this one and it easily held my attention and kept the pages turning. Elizabeth was a likable heroine and it didn't take long for me to connect with her and feel drawn to her journey toward healing and love. It was also easy for me to root for Aaron, who was broken and angry but underneath was just looking for a place to belong. There were so many things to love in this story and absolutely adored it. I will most definitely be reading more from this author in the future.

*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

Softly Blows the Bugle is an excellent historical Amish novel. Set in the time of the Civil War, I found this story to be one that pulled me into the story line. The consequences of an ill advised marriage, to an Englisher, that progressed to an abusive relationship is one that is not often told, in this genre. But this story covers the pain of war, the pain of regret but the hope of better days and healing, both physically and spiritually. Loneliness, self doubt and trying to help Elizabeth Kaufmann return her heart to a place of hope is Aaron Zook. Zook, is a friend of Elizabeth's brother and is a casualty of war. He feels like half a man and live every day with that attitude. Can Elizabeth help him or will he help Elizabeth.

Grab a warm cozy blanket, a nice glass of the bubbly, a beautifully scented candle and escape into the days of the Civil War and see where it will lead you.
Although, this can be a stand alone novel, I would recommend it be read in the order of it's author's series.

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 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.

Every now and then I read a book that just takes my breath away. This book was one of those. Oh my, this was a late night reading book because I absolutely could not put it down. And as much as I wanted to find what happens, at the same time I never wanted it to end! It was THAT GOOD!
I am not going to "re-write" the book in this review, because you can read the book blurb. I am going to say it was excellent. This author has moved right up the ranks of my favorite writers! It was a historical suspense and romance with twists and turns that just surprised me. There was not a dull moment in this exciting historical Amish fiction.

The characters were captivating, including the bad guy! The writing was believable and held my interest throughout. I could easily picture myself in the settings of the book and the time period. The excellent writing would make a great movie!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.