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.

Was this review helpful?

Rachael's Decision is a warm-hearted Christian novel. It is easy to recommend to almost any reader.. I look forward to other stories by this author.

Was this review helpful?

This is book 6 of the Amish Charm Bakery series, Amish Romance read. This is the story of Rachel and Caleb, set in the Amish country during the 1900's. Rachel is a widower from a tragic accident that left her injured and her husband lost his life. She is now a single mother and working in the Amish Charm Bakery. She meets Caleb and he wants more than friendship. Rachel is interested but not sure she can provide the future Caleb wants. Will they find that faith has put them together? Will Rachel be able to get pass her past and reach for the future with Caleb?

If you like Amish reads, then you will love this series. It is a cozy read and makes you cheer for them to be a happy family. It is book 6 in the series, however, it can be read as a stand alone. This is a fun series that you don't want to end. If you read from book 1 to 6 you will see people show up in each book that will give you sense of coming into the Amish world .

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising

Was this review helpful?

Rachael has been nannying for her widowed neighbor; however, he seems to take her for granted. When a handsome stranger visits the bake shop, Rachael falls head over heels in love for him. Her neighbor finally wakes up and realizes what he lost when Rachael begins courting the stranger, Caleb. Rachael distances herself from her neighbor and invests in her relationship. When hurdles come that threaten their upcoming nuptials, will Rachael make decision based from love or convenience?

Was this review helpful?

I loved getting to know Rachel better in this last book of the series. We are able to understand her loss better as the author shares how she lost her intended husband. It is mentioned that Rachel has a limp due to the accident which I think has caused her to be a little self conscious. I adore how Rachel is so caring and humble.

The author gives us a story where Rachel finds herself being pursued by two men. I know it was hard for Rachel to make a decision but I was happy with her choice and was hoping for a happily ever after. However complications set in when Rachel tells Caleb something that she feels will cause him not to want to marry her. I loved the turmoil that we witness as Rachel is torn about who to marry.

The author shows readers how important it is to rely on your faith and to trust God to show you the right direction for you life. I liked both men and at times I could understand why Rachel had a difficult decision. Nathan wants a mother for his children but does he truly love Rachel? Caleb loves Rachel and the feeling are mutual but Rachel believes he will be unhappy because she can’t give him a family.

This story is filled with emotions that will make you cry as well as give you hope as we follow Rachel on her journey to find happiness. There is one character in the story that really tried my patience. She was very selfish and demanding. Her heart is bitter and jealous as she finds out that her future is in jeopardy. This character teaches us that bitterness causes us to become closed off from feelings of joy. The author does an excellent job of illustrating how envy can become something that pulls you away from God’s plan for your life.

I loved the surprises in the story and how faith plays a big part in showing how we should never give up on happiness. This is a beautiful story about family, love, community and faith as we close out this series.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Was this review helpful?

I liked how in this book Caleb never gave up on Rachael even when she had given up on their courtship. I liked how the Lord worked everything out in the end for this couple and other couples around them. I liked learning a bit more about Amish culture and what that entails. I also came to feel connected to these characters as they went through their different trials. I liked how the community came together and was there cheering Rachael and Caleb on and encouraging them when Rachael had her doubts about marrying Caleb. I liked how the story progressed and how the story concluded.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

Was this review helpful?

The Charm Amish Bakery Series has been such a joy to read and this book is a delightful way to end it! Author Molly Jebber gives us a chance to catch up with many of the characters that we've met before and another glimpse of Amish life as it was in the early 1900s. Rachael Schlabach works with her sister-in-law Magdelena at the Amish Charm Bakery and she has a difficult choice to make. All she's ever wanted is to be a mother but should she marry a widow that she doesn't romantically love so that she can become a mother to his young children? What about the handsome newcomer who's just arrived in Charm?

Jebber offers a poignant portrayal of Rachael's dilemma. Her sweet, caring nature and her belief in God's Will won't allow her to make a selfish decision but she still knows that pain and hurt are bound to happen. Twists and turns, along with a strong thread of faith, make this a captivating story!

Fans of Amish fiction and clean romance will definitely enjoy Rachael's Decision.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

Was this review helpful?

Whether or not you have read any of the five other books in this endearing series, this story will grab you and touch your heart. It stands well alone, but the setting and many characters continue from the other novels in the Amish Charm Bakery series. This one focuses on Rachael, who works at the bakery. Two men wish to court her, but along with each man’s family come issues and conflicts. Also, Rachael holds a secret that might affect her future. The compelling story draws readers right in and makes them feel like they’re eyewitnesses and experiencing the joys and trials with the characters. The people in the story seem real, but I was surprised to find a lazy Amish woman who took advantage of others. The story is quite character driven, and the characters make readers care about what happens to them. If you enjoy Amish tales, don’t miss this one. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #RachaelsDecision #NetGalley

Was this review helpful?

I recently watched a stage play about an Amish girl, so I was eager to delve into another Amish story! I don’t read a lot of Amish Fiction, so it’s doubly exciting when I do.

Rachael’s Decision is an emotional read with themes of love, loss, trust, and faith. Rachael and Caleb are wonderful characters that are easy to connect with. I loved Rachael’s heart and how she cared for the widower Nathan’s children.

Although I haven’t read the previous books in the series, I followed this story with ease and didn’t feel I missed out on anything. I love the central messages of God having a plan for our lives.

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

Was this review helpful?

I'm an Amish fiction nut. I have many favorite Amish authors and Molly Jebber is one of them.
The story is centered around Rachael. She has suffered greatly. Her losses weigh heavily on her heart. It impacts her choices even if it breaks her heart.

The characters are realistic to the point where I wanted to wring someone's neck. I won't mention names but you will know as you read the story. Why do some people like to be miserable? Or cause trouble for others?

I felt Rachael told too many people about her private health issues. I think she gave out more information than she needed to. I thought it was her way of coping with her issues.

Can Rachael find true happiness? It is all up to Rachael's Decision.

Was this review helpful?

Rachael’s Decision is a wonderful novel! I’ve loved every last book in this series and can’t wait to see what else is to come!

Rachel has a lot to figure out. She’s had some hard things come her way and yet she is still trying to find what she should do with her future. What she thought she’d never have is available for her. It’s staring at her in the face but she feels she doesn’t deserve it or can’t take it.

What will happen if she decides she doesn’t deserve what is being given to her?

I thought at the beginning I knew exactly how the book was going to go. We hit that point at maybe 45% in. So obviously there were some twists and turns I wasn’t expecting, but I should have because I love this author and have read several of her books.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

Was this review helpful?

Rachael’s Decision is written by Molly Jebber. This book is part of the Amish Charm Bakery Series. While I’ve read the entire series, this book can be read as a stand alone. The author does a great job in filling out any backstories. This book is set in 1915.

Rachael was in a horrible accident that left her with a noticeable limp and some other scarring. She also lost her fiancé in this accident. She has resigned herself to work in the Amish Charm Bakery. She also assists her neighbor, Nathan after his wife passes away. She loves his children.

One day she meets Caleb. He is new to town and the two of them are drawn to each other instantly. Caleb lives with his brother and sister in law. He has dreams of buying his own farm and land some day. Their courtship moves along fast. Then everything comes crashing around them.

Caleb is faced with unspeakable pain and has to reconfigure some of his plans. Rachael knows she needs to tell him about the extent of some of his injuries to ensure they walk into a life time with no secrets. Rachael is worried that marrying Caleb will deprive him of having his own family.

I loved these characters. Caleb was so in love with Rachael that he wasn’t taking no for an answer. I wasn’t thrilled with Frannie, his sister in law. While the Amish do not pay attention to what goes on in the outside world the author did a great job bringing in real world events to the story.

Thank You to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Molly Jebber wraps up the "Amish Charm Bakery" series and returns us to Charm, Ohio, in book six, Rachael's Decision. The narrative functions nicely on its own, but reading the entire series results in a richer experience.

Given that it is set in the early 1900s, this story works well as historical fiction. However, many people in today's society deal with similar heartbreaking and sad issues. Rachael Schlabach, the protagonist, has a strong, unwavering sense of faith and confidence in God throughout her quest for love. I truly admired that.

In addition, Jebber offers recipes at the conclusion of the book, which made me drool and want to cook them all!

Rachael's Decision will appeal to readers who like Molly Jebber and Amish fiction, and I heartily suggest it to others as well.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

Was this review helpful?

Rachael’s Decision is a Christian historical Amish romance novel by master storyteller, Molly Jebber. This is book six in her Amish Charm Bakery series. Even though it is book six, it may easily be read and followed as a standalone book.

Set in the quaint town of Charm, Ohio in 1915, this an incredibly engaging tale. It is the story of Rachael Schlabach, whose fiancé was killed in an accident. She was injured and left with a limp from that tragedy. Rachael has been helping widower, Nathan Waller, with his children and household since he lost his wife. Even though he is not ready to begin life with another woman, Rachael is very fond of him and his children.
A new man, Caleb Yutzy, comes to town and visits the bakery. When Caleb sees Rachael he is immediately smitten with her. Rachael is now caught in the middle between two men.

This is a lovely story with adorable characters. Nathan’s two children are typical kids, and liven up the story. The author has a sweet way of telling stories. I was invested within the first few pages and did not want to quit reading until I had finished the entire book. The faith message is heavily sprinkled throughout the story. There are life lessons included, also. Expect a few twists and turns to keep you on your toes.

I highly recommend this book. It is a poignant tale of romance, friendship, redemption, and has the delightful treats of a bakery. I really enjoyed it. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my own honest words.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this book. Such a delightful story about Rachael and Caleb. Everything works out for the good.

Was this review helpful?

Rachael enjoys her time working at the Amish Charm Bakery, baking, creating, and meeting new and old customers. She doesn’t let her limp hold her back. She obtained her injury and lost her fiancé in an accident a while back. She is still looking for love and has possible suitors in a widower with two children and a newcomer in town, Caleb, who immediately sparks her interest.
These characters all won me over, as they did in previous stories, except for newcomer Frannie. She was demanding, selfish and lazy. But she was also sister-in-law to Caleb, who Rachael has taken an interest in.
Complications arise with several relationships and things begin to get confusing. How will this ever resolve? Grab a chair with a beverage and maybe a cookie or two and disappear into Charm, Ohio. A nice escape from reality for a while. A bonus is three delicious recipes in the back from the bakery. I can almost smell them baking!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

Was this review helpful?

It’s always a treat to return to Charm, Ohio. Book six, and the final book, in author Molly Jebber’s The Amish Charm Bakery series, like all of the others, can be read as a standalone. However since we visit with characters from the other books do read them for a more fulfilling experience.

Jebber writes about real to life characters set in the 1900s so the tone is a bit more formal. However it is heartwarming and charming. I’d love to visit the bakery and have coffee with all of the ladies that work there.

Strong, and well developed, you will fall in love with all of the characters. Sometimes I wanted to shake Rachael for being so self-sacrificing but she is working through a tough situation. Caleb wants her for a wife but that may not happen. And add in two adorable children who want Rachel for their own and you have quite a quandary.

If you enjoy Amish fiction then do read Rachael’s Decision.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Was this review helpful?

I was surprised to see in the synopsis that the book takes place in the early 1900's - it didn't feel any different than other Amish romances I've read set in modern times. This is the sixth and last book in the series. I had not read any of the other books, but didn't feel lost at all.

This is the story of Rachel Schlabach, who was injured in an accident that killed her intended husband. Rachel put aside all thoughts of marriage for a long time, but there is a local man, a widower, who has two children, who is a possibility. He loved his wife very much, and isn't really interested in remarrying for himself, but he needs a woman to care for his children. He works long hours and they can't be with him while he works. Rachel has her own reasons for wanting to marry a man who already has children.

In the meanwhile, a new bachelor moves to town, and sets his sights on Rachel, much to her bewilderment. This is a sweet love story with some ups and downs and I enjoyed it very much.

I received an e-ARC of this book from Kensington Books/Zebra via NetGalley. It was a pleasure to voluntarily read and review this book.

Was this review helpful?

Rachael’s Decision by Molly Jebber takes us back to Charm, Ohio in 1915 where Rachael Schlabach works at the Charm Bakery. An accident cost Rachael her fiancé and gave her a limp. Since the death of Nathan Wagler’s wife, Rachael has been helping him with household chores and with his two kinner. Rachael had hopes that Nathan would ask to court her, but he is still grieving. One day Caleb Yutzy walks into the bakery. Caleb is instantly attracted to Rachael. He immediately asks her to share dinner with his family the next day. When Caleb asks to court her, Rachael accepts, but she fails to share some news that might make him change his mind. As Rachael begins spending time with Caleb, Nathan and his children miss her presence in their lives. Nathan invites Rachael to dinner and asks if he can court her. Rachael is torn between the two men. Rachael will need God’s guidance so she can make the right decision. is the sixth book in the Amish Charm Bakery series. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. The story contains good writing with realistic characters. The story moved at a gentle pace. There was a good flow to the story. I enjoyed getting to know Rachael, Nathan, and Caleb. Nathan’s children, Joy and Thad are sweethearts. Joy stood out to me. She is a precocious child. I like that we get to catch up with the characters in the other Amish Charm Bakery novels including Sheriff Williams and Dr. Harrison. I like how the author uses Sheriff Williams and Dr. Harrison’s having breakfast and reading the paper to add historical details. I found Rachael’s Decision to be an emotional story. It is a story that tugs at your heartstrings. Faith was beautifully incorporated into the story. The characters trust God and rely on Him to guide them. I like that they pray about a decision before making it. I like how the characters had the love and support of family, friends and community. Rachael’s Decision is a poignant tale with a caring community, a bevy of baked goods, a sweet suitor, two sweet kids, an upsetting secret, and a generous God.

Was this review helpful?

As one of my favorite genres, I really wanted to love this book. The story was sweet. However, I feel like things changed too quickly without easy transitions. The book was hard to stay focused on and I didn’t do well with the dialogue. It seemed that the author tried to put too much into each character’s turn to speak and things moved from one topic to the next much too quickly. I appreciated the authors commitment to writing a Christian fiction book and continuing to add in prayers and God’s goodness to the book. However, I would not choose to read this one again.

Was this review helpful?