The Christmas Cradle

"The Christmas Cradle" by Charlotte Hubbard is a great book. I am not lost in reading it with the characters, though I do recommend reading the series 'Seasons of the Heart' from the beginning.

A passionate kiss between Lena Esh and her boyfriend Josiah Witmer leads to something more in their hometown. Now, Lena Esh is a few weeks away from giving birth to her first child. Her and Josiah find themselves in a snow storm and lost in Willow Ridge; they are trying to get to the town of Higher Ground, so Josiah can work for ex-bishop of Willow Ridge, Hiram, at a supper club.

Who Lena and Josiah find are Ben and Miriam Hooley, who are about to be new parents too. The Hooleys are willing to help Lena and Josiah out and so is town of Willow Ridge.

When Josiah's sister puts her foot down to him about where she wants to live, Josiah is slowly realizing that he has to thinking about other lives instead of his own more. This comes full circle when he looks in the face of newborn child.

Is someone else trying to reach out to Josiah as well?
Is Josiah willing to listen to that voice?

Will Josiah and Lena get married and raise their child together?

The answer to these questions can be answered by reading the book.

I have been on the edge of seat as reading "The Christmas Cradle". I love Charlotte Hubbard use of words to describe her characters and details, they come to life for me in my mind's eye.
I look forward to reading more books by Charlotte Hubbard in the future.

I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. No money was exchanged. This is my honest review in my own words.

Title: The Christmas Cradle Author: Charlotte Hubbard Publisher: Zebra Series: Seasons of the Heart Book 6 Reviewed by: Arlena Dean Rating: 5 Review:

"The Christmas Cradle" by Charlotte Hubbard

What I liked about this novel...

This was indeed a wonderful Christian Amish Fiction read that will hold your attention till the very end. I loved how the characters [mainly... Miriam, Been, Lena and Josiah] to name a few were so well developed, defined, portrayed and believable giving the reader one remarkable read. I loved seeing how even through there were many up and downs in this read that in the end 'God' really showed just that He was their when needed the most.' Truly for many of the people of Willow Ridge will have their faith tested and in the end will they be able to rise above it and rebuild what they once had? To get the answer to that question...and more you will have to pick up this good read to see how it will be presented to so well to the readers. I loved how this author was able to bring out the forgiveness as the reader will see as one reads through the novel. As I read through this novel I was able to see these people's every day 'trials, disappointments and their joys.' To see this Christian community come together to help each other was not only beautiful but well done which definitely gives the 'true meaning of Christmas.' I don't want to fail to mention that this author will included some wonderful mouth watering recipes shared at the end of the novel.

I felt that "The Christmas Cradle" ...[The Season of the Heart Book 6] was indeed a wonderful Christmas story and would recommend to all as a good read.

I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I love reading Charlotte's books. Following Miriam and her family and the town that is portrayed in the book makes me feel as though I am part of the story. A story of redemption, growing up, and having faith no matter what.
Charlotte is an excellent author and I look forward to reading more of her books.

The Christmas Cradle By Charlotte Hubbard

Everyone loves a great Christmas story and this one provides the perfect setting and plot. I was totally engaged from the first page!! The story begins in November presenting us with a unique and very touching holiday surprise. Eighteen year old Lena and her boyfriend are stranded and need a place to stay, just for the night.... or so they think. Lena, from a very strict family, has been banished from her home and their judgmental beliefs to run away with Josiah and have his babe. Is she doing the right thing?? Even she , wonders at times!! Meanwhile, Miriam and Ben , who just happen to live nearby, are expecting their own miracle baby. They and the town rally around this young couple to extend a much needed helping hand .

The characters were described in a realistic and truly lovable way. I felt their every trial, disappointment and joy!! The plot moves quickly and is filled with unexpected twists and turns. Both sets of expectant parents experience troublesome times, shocking tragedies and disappointments, however, the Christian community pulls together to help everyone experience the true meaning of Christmas. I felt an intense sense of joy and happiness at the outcome of this book. In the season of joyous rebirth, a little child will lead them. Two families see their dreams come true, and become one!! A perfect book for the Christmas season!!

Fantastic!! It touched my heart and soul!!

Book was provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

I was sad to see Charlotte Habbard's series come to an end. I have enjoyed the series of Miriam's Sweet Seasons Bakery and the trials the family and community have overcome. A very enjoyable read. I look forward to Ms. Hibbard's next series.

I have not read any of the other novels in this series. This is a standalone book, however I believe reading the previous books would have helped me understand all the characters a little better.

This is a great, non traditional Amish romance novel. There are many things about Willow Ridge that set it apart from the more traditional Amish communities. I love that there were some pieces that I could easily relate to and see in the community. I appreciated the leniency on some of the things in the community.

There was one confusing part to me. In the beginning it is said several times that Josiah's parents were killed in a rig accident. However later when he is talking with Miriam he says the drowned during a great flood. I don't know if the two were connected (accident and then drowned, did the buggy go into a lake or something?) or if this was an error on the author's part.

The story had great character development despite the many main characters. I felt myself wanting to know more about the other characters in the community to see how they all ended up at Willow Ridge and what their backstories were.