Member Reviews
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.
Love Blooms in Morning Star is a good Christian read. There are several books about Morning Star. They are all very good and worth a read. It is easy to recommend this book to others..
This book is filled with strong Amish women, not afraid to stand up for what is right. This is the fourth book in The Maidels of Morning Star series. You can read this as a stand alone book, but I highly recommend reading the first three books to get to know the characters.
Jo owns a bakery in Morning Star. She intends to work after she is married. However, some of the deacons don’t want women to work once they are married. Jo and Michael have to navigate their relationship while holding strong to the Ordung.
This is a great story about love and taking chances.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
This is the fourth book in the Morning Star series and I have loved them all. Each one is about a different Maidel” who were involved in starting the market. This is Jo’s story. I received a copy from Netgalley but the opinions are mine.
Another Amish friend is featured in this Morning Star novel and I really enjoyed going back and visiting the Marketplace and the community that makes it such an interesting place to visit. Family, faith and the choices in life are what makes life interesting. I enjoyed how Jo keeps the Marketplace humming!
I received a copy through NetGalley, my opinion and review are voluntary.
A well written Amish romance. Good plot and character dynamics. I highly recommend this book. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.
The fourth book in this series brings us the story of Michael and Jo. This series has been a wonderful journey through the lives of five women who started a business despite obstacles. Jo and Michael secretly fall in love. However, Jo's mother is convinced that marriage will only bring her daughter heartache. Will Michael be able to win over Drusilla? Turns out his father, Nelson, is more of a help then both thought he could. But when a new law in their community threatens to destroy the relationship, both Jo and Michael must reassess their feelings. I love how the characters interact with one another. I also love that we are able to catch up with others in the series. A received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.
Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard, the fourth novel in The Maidels of Morning Star series, is an inspiring and heartwarming tale. Jo Fussner has found love with Michael Wengerd, who has come into town from another Amish community, selling flowers with his father. Jo is looking forward to the future, but she knows it won't be easy to get her mother Drusilla's blessing. Drusilla has been warning Jo on how marriage traps a woman, especially once her husband is the head of the house. Jo can't understand why her mother is so against marriage or why Drusilla is brushing off the advances of widower Nelson Wengerd, Michael’s father.
Jo and her mother Drusilla have their own battles. Jo's battle is twofold: her self esteem and her mother. She has found confidence thanks to Michael who has come into town from another Amish community selling flowers with his father. Jo's mother is not for this relationship and Michael's father has grown a fondness for Drusilla. Drusilla is one of those women that can be difficult. As the story progresses, we get to know Drusilla and learn what is behind her behavior. As Drusilla spends time with Nelson’s twin sister, Nadine, Drusilla finally gains confidence in herself and her self-worth.
Just when Jo thinks all will work out, the elders decide maidels, unmarried women, can no longer work after they marry. Jo has poured her heart into the Marketplace. She can't imagine not having a hand in its future. Words spoken in haste put everything she holds dear into jeopardy. The foursome come together to help each other in a community way and find a solution to save the Marketplace and ensuring that the maidels, once married, are able to continue working; given they have their husband’s permission. There are so many teaching moments in this story; especially forgiveness.
Ms. Hubbard wrote a wonderfully sweet and moving story that had me feeling all the emotions; smiling, tearing up, crying of heartbreak, and frustrated with some of the characters. The message of love, faith, and forgiveness stood strong; making this sweet and inspiration read one I could not put down, draw me in, making me forget it was fiction. I highly recommend Love Blooms in Morning Star to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
My blurb …
Jo Fussner is a crucial element to the success of the Morning Star marketplace; she is one of the five maidels who turned an old barn into a success. Jo and Michael Wengerd are in love but … the church elders have recently decreed that once married, a maidel can no longer run a business. What can be done? Anything? Will the elders change their minds? Will faith that God holds their future carry them through?
By the way, this is the final book in the series.
My review …
Love Blooms in Morning Star can be read alone; I had read the first book in the series, Morning Star. In that book, the five maidels conceive the idea of turning the old barn into a marketplace for Amish and Englishers but not without some difficulty. I’m glad I had done so and agree with other reviewers that you will probably enjoy this book more if you have read the previous three.
This series is a “clean, wholesome” romance as Jo and Michael deal with the rather sudden decree of the church elders.
The key characters are Jo, Michael, Nelson, and Drusilla. Drusilla is … well, let’s just say that you’ll finally learn why Drusilla is the way she is.
The plot has multiple facets but the fundamental element is faith. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” from Hebrews 11:1 is what carries Jo and Michael through this difficult time.
What made the book special …
I marked several passages and made a couple of notes. One was that “jumped to conclusion” was the real title of this book. How often do we get into “situations” because we did exactly that? Who do you think did this before you even read the book? You are probably right.
Chapter 28 has a genius idea on how to forgive someone when we feel like we can’t. Note to Self — read that section again … and again.
Charlotte Hubbard, the author, also handles quotes from the Bible extremely well. Ever read a book with Biblical quotes but they just feel “stuck in”. They didn’t flow with the voice of the writing. Not so with Charlotte Hubbard in Love Blooms in Morning Star.
I also thought the way the characters celebrated Good Friday was quite special.
I do recommend this book and rated it five (5) stars.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Love Blooms in Morning Star via NetGalley from the publisher, Kensington Books, Zebra. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#LoveBloomsinMorningStar #NetGalley #CharlotteHubbard
Series The Maidels of Morning Star #4
Genre Amish
Pub. Date 26 Jul 2022
Pages 310
Publisher Kensington Books, Zebra
Cover Pretty but an error. No strings on her capp.
.Rating 5 stars
Beautiful and Inspirational
While it varies from person to person, for me there are many things that make a great story, one of which is a connection to the characters. I have to say that Love Blooms in Morning Star definitely did that for me. I found a very strong connection with the main characters, Jo and Michael. I was drawn into their story and shared with them in their feelings for each other, and also to their relationships with their families and community. I deeply felt what they felt as they dealt with their love for each other, to what they felt as they dealt with the roadblocks that kept coming up. It caused me to feel their joy, their pain, and their struggle with doing what was expected and what their hearts wanted. This created an emotional roller coaster that just drew me deeper and deeper into the story as I cheered them on and held my breath wondering how things would turn out. All the while, the themes of forgiveness, trust, community, and God’s everlasting love and His will came through offering hope that only He can provide.
There is so much that makes this such a beautiful and inspirational story that I cannot adequately convey. That being said, what I can say is that this is a definite must read and one that you won’t want to miss.
**I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All comments and opinions are strictly my own.
Another lovely book by an author who creates touching stories of the Amish. I liked that this one included a tender love tale with an older couple, both widowed. She also presents a strong faith element centering around the celebration of Good Friday and Easter plus learning to forgive and to trust God more. The compelling story is a joy to read whether this fictional community is new to you or you have kept up with the series—but for maximum enjoyment read them all in order. I received a copy from the I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #LoveBloomsinMorningStar #NetGalley
I am often picky about my Amish romance authors, but Charlotte Hubbard is one who consistently delivers a good story. I fell in love with the Maidels of Morning Star in the very first book of the series. It's a little bittersweet to be coming to the end, but I still greatly enjoyed it.
This one focuses on Jo, the fifth of the maidels to find a prospective match, as well as her mother Drusilla. Her mamm is difficult to swallow in the one, but it is slowly revealed why she is so miserable. The disagreements and her awful mood swings actually started in the previous book. So while they are briefly described in this one, I really do think you're better off reading that one first to better understand this situation. This series doesn't lend itself as well to being all standalones. (But they're all worth reading!)
One aspect I found interesting in this book is how this particular order is trying to find the balance between their old cherished and traditional ways while also recognizing the need for new, more progressive ideas in order to continue to survive. It's definitely some food for thought.
But most important are the ideas of keeping the faith in difficult times, finding forgiveness in love and friendship, and staying true to oneself while still helping your community. There's also a sense of rebirth, which is appropriate as this one takes place in the spring near the Easter holiday.
I have loved visiting Morning Star and will miss it!
I received a requested review copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a Clean Romance/Amish Fiction, and this is the fourth book in the Maidels of Morning Star series. I really enjoyed this book, and I love that the women in this book did not let the men walk all over them even if they are Amish. The romances in this book were slow moving and sweet, but I loved getting to know these characters. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zebra Books) or author (Charlotte Hubbard) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Love Blooms in Morning Star is the fourth book in The Maidels of Morning Star series by Charlotte Hubbard and only the second one I’ve read. It was a quick-paced read with returning characters as well as new ones.
Love Blooms in Morning Star is Jo and Michael’s story, but their families—her mam and his dat and aunt play essential roles. The Marketplace set up by Jo and four other friends, who were all maidels at the time, might play a different role in their lives now that some are married and others are to be married. Married women shouldn’t be working outside of their homes per their religious order, but can that be overcome?
The Bishop was caring and brought his community together even when difficult decisions had to be made. We also get to see him as an individual and in a committed relationship since he will be married soon to one of the maidels.
Jo and Michael are busy with their businesses and their upcoming marriage, but some roadblocks are thrown in their paths. Is their love enough to overcome any or all of them?
I loved how many members of their small community were there for each other, with the exception of a few. Their work ethics were front and center, and I enjoyed the descriptions of their hard work for themselves or others.
Michael and his father work together in their nursery business and have big plans to expand it and move it. Will it come to fruition, or will outside forces prevent some of their happiness?
Jo is busy with her bakery, and I could smell and taste the variety of treats she made. She was constantly feeding someone. Jo’s mom was a difficult woman to like and get close to for various reasons. I love how others didn’t give up on her and how life-changing decisions were coming her way. Her friendship with Michael’s aunt seemed to be a turning point for her.
The story has a good flow, with many storylines being woven together. There were family and friends along with hard work, their church, lots of prayers and Bible passages, beautiful and vivid descriptions, lots of love, marriages, romance, and happily ever afters. There was some sadness, anger, and tears but also hope, happiness, many smiles, and good deeds.
I loved the ending but wished the book went on a little longer since I believe this is the final book in the series.
Love Blooms in Morning Star is a lovely Amish tale and a great addition to The Maidels of Morning Star series. Ms. Hubbard’s knowledge of the Amish community is evident and adds to the authenticity of this series. I highly recommend this series to those who love Amish stories.
Love Blooms in Morning Star is the 4th and final book in the Maidels of Morning Star series by Charlotte Hubbard. This book focuses on Michael Wengerd, they shy greenhouse keeper, and Jo, the girl who started The Marketplace.. Michael's dad, Nelson, and Jo's mom, Druscilla, are also key players in this story. Will Michael's and Jo's love be able to overcome the possible closure of the extremely popular Marketplace? And will Druscilla's sour attitude ever be changed enough to see the good and kind man that Nelson really is? If you've read the previous books in this series, you definitely don't want to miss this book that releases on July 26. And even if you haven't read any of the other books in this series, this book would be a fun read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#LoveBloomsInMorningStar #NetGalley
iLove Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard Book 4
Jo and Michael see each other again at the wedding of friends.
Jo and four of her friends organized The Marketplace in an old run down barn last year. Plain crafters brought their wares to the Marketplace to be sold and it was a great success!
This was my first book to read in the series. The author did a good job of giving just enough background to ease me into the book without feeling like I had to read the previous books but, now I want to!
As the weeks go by, Jo's mother, Drusilla, seems more distressed about the marriage. To me, this was a big part of the story. Michael's dad also plays a big part in the story.
I would recommend this book to everyone who has read the series and to those who like to read a journey to the alter.
I received this ebook from #NetGalley and the publishers. The review is my own.
Love Blooms in Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard is the fourth novel in The Maidels of Morning Star series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading this charming series in order. Love Blooms in Morning Star is an inspiring and heartwarming tale. I love the characters in this series. We get to catch up with all the people from the previous books, but this story focuses on Jo, Michael, Nelson, and Drusilla. We also get to spend more time with Nelson’s twin sister, Nadine. I like that the women speak up for themselves. I admit that I do not agree with the Amish rule that men are in charge of the households and make the decisions regarding a wife (like being allowed to work outside the home). We get to know Drusilla and learn what is behind her behavior. I like that the characters and their situations are realistic. They have real life struggles that readers can relate to. I like that the characters are a range of ages (from Jo’s teenage helpers to those in their twilight years). The descriptions of Jo’s mouthwatering baked goods will have heading for the nearest bakery. There are good life lessons including a special one on forgiveness. The faith element was nicely woven into the story. The Easter weekend celebrations were special, and I liked Bishop Jeremiah’s sermon. I enjoyed the camaraderie of the community and how people would come together to help each other. The ending is special and will leave you with a good feeling in your heart (and a smile on your face). I hope this will not be our last visit to Morning Star. Love Blooms in Morning Star is an uplifting Amish tale with scrumptious coffee cakes, pretty posies, an emotive mother, an exultant engagement, a deacon dilemma, a cheery twin sister, a benevolent bishop, conferring forgiveness, and sweet surprises.
Wonderful read! This is a sweet Amish romance that is full of emotions. I loved reading Jo and Michael's story. Highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who is a fan of Amish romance.
I received a complimentary copy from Kensington Books, Zebra via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Love Blooms in Morning Star is the fourth book in the Maidels of Morning Star series by author Charlotte Hubbard. If you have not read the other three books yet, you will be able to follow the story just fine. This author does a remarkable job filling in gaps in the story.
There is so much to love about this book. The author has a great writing style. Her characters are down to earth and believable. The storyline and subplots were easy to follow. Life and spiritual messages were packed into this lovely story. One thing that bothered me though was how the author referenced a miscarriage (“because if a tiny bunch of cells detaches rather than growing into a child, it means something wasn’t right with it anyway.”)
One of the things that I really liked was the romance between an older couple. Normally the love stories are based around young people. This book had different ages which was a pleasant surprise.
I enjoy reading Amish stories. The camaraderie they have and how they pitch in to help each other is inspiring. Most of the books include scripture references. The details on meals and baking are a delight to read.
I highly recommend this uplifting book. It gets a 4 star rating from me. A copy was provided from NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
Learning to forgive and mean it is one of the hardest things anyone can do. Charlotte paints a wonderful picture of how much of a struggle it really is but that it can be done and be helpful to all around you.