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Apple Lake Amish #1
Kate's Song
Kate Weaver returns home to her family's farm in Apple Lake, Wisconsin, battered and bruised and carrying a secret. She is not yet baptized and has spent the past year at a music conservatory in Milwaukee, living among the English. Music is Kat's passion, and she is very good, so she faces a difficult she must either give up her family and home to pursue her talents or come home and be baptized and give up on her dreams. And with Nathaniel King, the handsome neighbor boy she grew up with, paying attention to her,the choice of whether to return to school in the fall is even harder. Kate wins a starring role in an upcoming opera, and as she wrestles with pressure from her family and her newfound feelings for Nathaniel, she is also haunted by what happened to her just before she left she fought to protect her friend against an angry ex and landed the man in intensive care. Will the consequences of that battle be the end of everything she's ever wanted? Will Nathaniel wait around while she tries to figure out God's plan for her life? Forever After in Apple Lake is a series of three standalone Amish books about cousins who find love in Wisconsin's Amish country.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
318 people are currently reading
1568 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Beckstrand
60 books886 followersJennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, The Honeybee Sisters series, The Petersheim Brothers series and The Amish Quiltmaker series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Her sweet romantic Western series, Cowboys of the Butterfly Ranch, features feisty heroines and tough-as-nails cowboys sprinkled with Jennifer’s trademark humor and happy endings. Maggie and Max is the third book in that series. Dandelion Meadows is her new, sweet small-town romance series, set in a quirky little town in Idaho. Jennifer has written thirty-eight Amish romances, three sweet romantic Westerns, two sweet contemporaries, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. Jennifer is a member of ACFW and is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency. She and her husband have been married thirty-nine years, and she has six children and eleven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
December 28, 2023
This is an Amish Fiction/Clean Romance, and this is the first book in the Forever After in Apple Lake series. This book was beautifully written, and it had great quotes and tension/suspense that made you want to keep reading it. The characters was so great, and I loved how developed all the characters where.
April 24, 2012
OK, for the record I'm the author's husband, and my wife has turned me into a romantic over the years. Bias aside, I really enjoyed Kate's Song. What a great story! It flows from start to finish and the characters are outstanding. The Amish setting adds rich context to the story. I found myself very emotional as I read three particular parts of the book. (I won't ruin anything with more information.) I was inspired and uplifted. Way to go Jennifer!
January 8, 2013
* Before diving into the book itself, I feel the need to warn you that as much as this book is a romance novel at heart, it is also a little different from what I typically choose to read. In many reviews, I have seen readers call it a “Christian Romance.” That threatened to turn me away from this book immediately. Although I am a Christian, I do not consider religion to play a strong role in my life, let alone find it to be a topic I enjoy exploring for relaxing enjoyment. Thanks to Amazon.com though and their daily deals of free Kindle book downloads, I had downloaded Kate’s Song before I was aware of it’s religious undertones. So I persevered and began reading – and not too far in I realized that I was thankful that I did.
‘Having your cake and eating it to’ is sometimes a tall order. For this novel’s central character, Kate Weaver, she would have to choose between the two. In Kate’s Song, by Jennifer Beckstrand, Kate is faced with choosing between 2 things she loves dearly and which ever she chooses will in-turn force her to abandon the alternative forever.
Kate’s Song is about Kate’s choice between being baptized in the Amish community, as she was raised and as the love her life has chosen, or pursuing her remarkable talents as an opera singer which would likely lead her to a life of fame and fortune. If she chooses to sing, Kate will sacrifice her one true love and her family. And if she chooses to be baptized, she will never again be allowed to showcase her enchanted voice.
Although the Amish are a very religious community and those teachings play a strong role in this story, for me, the book was ultimately about the value in the freedom to choose your destiny. How you choose (whether you follow God’s will, or it is your free will) is important to Kate but I found it to be of little importance to my enjoyment of this book. For me the love story, the battle of choosing and ultimately preparing for the loss of something she loves, was the heart and soul of Kate’s Song.
The characters in this book are inspiring. Their specific beliefs may not be something I share but they certainly make the reader reflect on their own driving passions. I only hope I could be as stead fast as some the more noble characters in Kate’s Song.
‘Having your cake and eating it to’ is sometimes a tall order. For this novel’s central character, Kate Weaver, she would have to choose between the two. In Kate’s Song, by Jennifer Beckstrand, Kate is faced with choosing between 2 things she loves dearly and which ever she chooses will in-turn force her to abandon the alternative forever.
Kate’s Song is about Kate’s choice between being baptized in the Amish community, as she was raised and as the love her life has chosen, or pursuing her remarkable talents as an opera singer which would likely lead her to a life of fame and fortune. If she chooses to sing, Kate will sacrifice her one true love and her family. And if she chooses to be baptized, she will never again be allowed to showcase her enchanted voice.
Although the Amish are a very religious community and those teachings play a strong role in this story, for me, the book was ultimately about the value in the freedom to choose your destiny. How you choose (whether you follow God’s will, or it is your free will) is important to Kate but I found it to be of little importance to my enjoyment of this book. For me the love story, the battle of choosing and ultimately preparing for the loss of something she loves, was the heart and soul of Kate’s Song.
The characters in this book are inspiring. Their specific beliefs may not be something I share but they certainly make the reader reflect on their own driving passions. I only hope I could be as stead fast as some the more noble characters in Kate’s Song.
June 21, 2012
I wanted to have the real book in hand but it's easier on my arms to read from my Kindle. From the first page to the last, this book interested me and captivated my heart. Kate has a gift from God for singing but her Amish faith keeps her from being worldly and enjoying praise from others. She knows God wants her to use her gifts to help others, yet it is a sin to leave her peaceful Amish world for worldly things. The Amish think her wanting to sing for people is prideful. Kate has to learn much through very tough times, love for music, her family and her boyfriend. Her only desire is to do God's will but it takes her through much sorrow and soul searching before she knows God's will for her. Same for all of us. One of my most favorite hymns is strewn throughout the book - BE STILL MY SOUL and the scripture i quote daily - its my mantra - be still and know that I am God. That song and scripture helped Kate receive the answers she needed. It has always inspired me when I have felt down and depressed. This is a book about Love, faith in God, family, trials, misunderstandings, gossip and true happiness and joy!! I loved it and will keep it to read again. Great writing about the Amish but anyone would love reading it. Very thought provoking. There were no typos at ll in this book. Nice change from most kindle books. Jennifer Beckstrand is awesome and has a great heart and mind for writing books. She visited the Amish to learn more about them and how they talk. Thanks Jennifer. Can't wait to read the next two books in this series.
July 6, 2013
Another Freebie :)
This was a sweet read that at times had a bit too much drama for me. I like the unique plot points - Kate has yet to be baptized and has to choose between her music career or her Amish life in Apple Lake.
Some aspects of the plot were a bit predictable, and I didn't follow some of the characters actions and motivations. The big conflict came about from a "big misunderstanding." If the male lead, Nathaniel, would have simply asked Kate to explain her actions, there wouldn't have been a problem. I just found it hard to believe that since he was so in love with her that he wouldn't even give her one chance to explain what happened instead of hearsay or what he thought he saw.
I like romance, but there were several cheesy bits, and I had no idea that grown men were so prone to sobbing and weeping. I guess I am used to the stoic, inward-retreating types ;)
Despite the aspects that I didn't care for much, there was still a lot to enjoy in the story. My favorite characters were Kate's parents and her brother, Elmer. They were so loyal to Kate and very inspiring. I also appreciated that Kate came to her decision without basing it on Nathaniel, or anyone else, but based on her faith & what she felt was God's will.
I recommend for readers that really enjoy Amish-set stories and won't mind that the romance is sweet and sometimes shimmies over into cheesy.
This was a sweet read that at times had a bit too much drama for me. I like the unique plot points - Kate has yet to be baptized and has to choose between her music career or her Amish life in Apple Lake.
Some aspects of the plot were a bit predictable, and I didn't follow some of the characters actions and motivations. The big conflict came about from a "big misunderstanding." If the male lead, Nathaniel, would have simply asked Kate to explain her actions, there wouldn't have been a problem. I just found it hard to believe that since he was so in love with her that he wouldn't even give her one chance to explain what happened instead of hearsay or what he thought he saw.
I like romance, but there were several cheesy bits, and I had no idea that grown men were so prone to sobbing and weeping. I guess I am used to the stoic, inward-retreating types ;)
Despite the aspects that I didn't care for much, there was still a lot to enjoy in the story. My favorite characters were Kate's parents and her brother, Elmer. They were so loyal to Kate and very inspiring. I also appreciated that Kate came to her decision without basing it on Nathaniel, or anyone else, but based on her faith & what she felt was God's will.
I recommend for readers that really enjoy Amish-set stories and won't mind that the romance is sweet and sometimes shimmies over into cheesy.
April 10, 2020
Kate's Song is an amazing story written by Jennifer Beckstrand in her Forever After in Apple Lake series. I first read this book when it was released but have recently reread it. The author always gives her readers a heartwarming story and this one is the same. I loved the characters she has created to tell this story and the storyline is amazing.
Kate Weaver, a young Amish woman, has been blessed with an amazing singing voice. When she decides to attend an academy to further her skills she is devastated by the actions of a fellow student. When Kate returns home she is divided between her love to sing and her love of her peaceful community. Nathaniel King, a truly devoted Amish man, has loved Kate for many years. As the two get reaquainted Nathaniel always wonders if Kate will choose the world over him again. Their story is about forgiveness and second chances but what does a second chance for them look like? The author has done an amazing job telling this story thru her wonderful choice of characters. When Kate's story is revealed will it have consequences attached?
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Jennifer Beckstrand for writing this inspiring story for her readers enjoyment. I do intend to read the next two books in this series again.
Kate Weaver, a young Amish woman, has been blessed with an amazing singing voice. When she decides to attend an academy to further her skills she is devastated by the actions of a fellow student. When Kate returns home she is divided between her love to sing and her love of her peaceful community. Nathaniel King, a truly devoted Amish man, has loved Kate for many years. As the two get reaquainted Nathaniel always wonders if Kate will choose the world over him again. Their story is about forgiveness and second chances but what does a second chance for them look like? The author has done an amazing job telling this story thru her wonderful choice of characters. When Kate's story is revealed will it have consequences attached?
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Jennifer Beckstrand for writing this inspiring story for her readers enjoyment. I do intend to read the next two books in this series again.
February 21, 2015
This is the author's debut novel. And the 1st in the series with two more books, Rebecca's Rose & Miriam's Quilt to follow.
I did not realize this was the author's debut novel until after I finished the book & had rated it 5 stars. I truly enjoyed every bit of it. The story in Chapter Four about "Say When" touched me personally except the liquid was coffee. :-)
Kate has a God-given talent. A HUGE one. She can sing. She can do more than just sing. She literally can soar to the heavens with her voice. She loves to sing and left before joining the Amish church to go to college. I got the feeling that while she was loving the accolades she received she still remained very grounded.
I really liked that her parents supported her throughout the book. And I loved Nathaniel -- well, most of the time. Such a wise young man. Nathaniel has a way of stating how God loves us that I found unique as well as a blessing to any reader.
I highlighted LOTS of passages in this book. Some made me chuckle. Like this one, "Ada could make a compliment sound like an insult." BTW -- you won't like Ada any more than I did.
There is "Your heart is ready for God when you are in your darkest hour." And "No amount of regret compares with knowing God's will and failing to do it." And so many more.
Oddly enough I had read a more recent book of hers and liked it as well. She has fast becomes one of my favorite Amish authors.
I did not realize this was the author's debut novel until after I finished the book & had rated it 5 stars. I truly enjoyed every bit of it. The story in Chapter Four about "Say When" touched me personally except the liquid was coffee. :-)
Kate has a God-given talent. A HUGE one. She can sing. She can do more than just sing. She literally can soar to the heavens with her voice. She loves to sing and left before joining the Amish church to go to college. I got the feeling that while she was loving the accolades she received she still remained very grounded.
I really liked that her parents supported her throughout the book. And I loved Nathaniel -- well, most of the time. Such a wise young man. Nathaniel has a way of stating how God loves us that I found unique as well as a blessing to any reader.
I highlighted LOTS of passages in this book. Some made me chuckle. Like this one, "Ada could make a compliment sound like an insult." BTW -- you won't like Ada any more than I did.
There is "Your heart is ready for God when you are in your darkest hour." And "No amount of regret compares with knowing God's will and failing to do it." And so many more.
Oddly enough I had read a more recent book of hers and liked it as well. She has fast becomes one of my favorite Amish authors.
June 16, 2012
Kate’s Song is an Amish romance. I confess, I’m not a romance reader, so I wasn’t aware this has become a popular subgenre. Well, I can see why. It’s clean, gentle, and heartwarming. Sort of like Amish people.
I’ve always been fascinated by the Amish. I suppose I envy them–-their peaceful existence, their devotion. In the clamor of real life, it was nice to pick up this book and go somewhere quiet.
That’s not to say the book has no tension or conflict. It’s there. But it’s more along the lines of “will they discover they both love each other despite the twists of fate” rather than bruised lips, heavy breathing and bodice ripping.
Of course it’s not gritty reality. Some books serve a different purpose.
Kate’s Song is well written and edited, published by Summerside Press. Two more Amish romances are on the way.
More information can be found at Jennifer’s website: jenniferbeckstrand.com.
I’ve always been fascinated by the Amish. I suppose I envy them–-their peaceful existence, their devotion. In the clamor of real life, it was nice to pick up this book and go somewhere quiet.
That’s not to say the book has no tension or conflict. It’s there. But it’s more along the lines of “will they discover they both love each other despite the twists of fate” rather than bruised lips, heavy breathing and bodice ripping.
Of course it’s not gritty reality. Some books serve a different purpose.
Kate’s Song is well written and edited, published by Summerside Press. Two more Amish romances are on the way.
More information can be found at Jennifer’s website: jenniferbeckstrand.com.
April 1, 2013
There were too many unrealistic responses by characters in this book 1. The parents lack of worry/outrage/questions at their daughters physical and emotional condition when she unexpectedly arrives home before completing her much fought for opportunity to attend school and study music among the English, 2. The uncharacteristic meanness and hatefulness/pettiness of the older brother and his wife, and 3. The young man who loves her has the patience and determination to wait for her, but not the willingness to verify from her directly whether or not she is with an Englisher and, worse, that he would believe that she had an illegitimate child. These flaws were so distracting to me that I nearly missed the heart and message of this book.
April 8, 2019
Kate attending the academy, blessed with a beautiful voice. Eating an apple transport her to memories of the apple trees back home. A love that Nathaniel has for her awaiting her return. Her parents are worried she has so far choose.not to be baptized. The words flow, and the description feels real, to the choices that are heavy on her heart. Seeking God’s way, what will she choose.
December 19, 2018
This was my first jennifer Breckstand book. This was also Breckstands first book in the Apple Lake series. I really enjoy Breckstand's writing style and found her characters to have depth and her story well developed.
Kate Weaver is still on her rumpringa. She left home 2 years prior to attend a music academy and develop her beautiful voice that God blessed her with. This schooling and pursuit of her musical talent goes against the Ordung. After a traumatic event during her second year at school, Kate returns home for safety and peace. She needs to seek the Lord's will for her life. Should she return to her promising opera career or settle down and be baptized and embrace her Plain heritage?
Nathaniel King has been in love with Kate since they were 11 years old. He is thrilled to have her back in the community where he can court her. The problem is he does not know if Kate is home to stay or has feelings for him?
Kate's return is surrounded from non acceptance from some family members and memories of the traumatic events involving some close friends from school. It seems to Kate the Lord has abandon her and is not hearing and answering her prayers for direction.
I loved this book. It is filled with wisdom and insight. Definitely an enjoyable read
Kate Weaver is still on her rumpringa. She left home 2 years prior to attend a music academy and develop her beautiful voice that God blessed her with. This schooling and pursuit of her musical talent goes against the Ordung. After a traumatic event during her second year at school, Kate returns home for safety and peace. She needs to seek the Lord's will for her life. Should she return to her promising opera career or settle down and be baptized and embrace her Plain heritage?
Nathaniel King has been in love with Kate since they were 11 years old. He is thrilled to have her back in the community where he can court her. The problem is he does not know if Kate is home to stay or has feelings for him?
Kate's return is surrounded from non acceptance from some family members and memories of the traumatic events involving some close friends from school. It seems to Kate the Lord has abandon her and is not hearing and answering her prayers for direction.
I loved this book. It is filled with wisdom and insight. Definitely an enjoyable read
December 2, 2021
0 have loved this book. Took a lot of interesting turns and made me a bit frustrated at times but definitely loved it and learning more about the Amish culture.
July 28, 2013
The story of an Amish girl who longs to use the musical gift God has given her yet doesn't want to forsake her Amish upbringing and family is compelling, yet there were many aspects of this novel that were frustrating for me. For the most part, this book was a light, easy read with a storyline that made it difficult to put down in places, but I struggled to relate to the actions of some of the characters.
I don't wan to spoil too much, but the main conflict revolves around a big misunderstanding stemming from a lack of communication between the hero and heroine. If you've read any of my reviews, you'll know that I really dislike this plot device simply because I'm not the kind of person who avoids talking to people when I'm upset, or sits brooding over a problem rather than dealing with it. I tend to be proactive about discussing things and addressing problems before they escalate, so I couldn't understand Nathaniel's actions. Rather than feeling sorry for him, I was just annoyed that he wouldn't go and talk to the woman he supposedly loved.
The romance between Nathaniel and Kate is super sweet, maybe even too sweet in places, but I did really like Nathaniel's character at the start of their relationship. He didn't judge Kate based on her past behaviour and was always kind and caring towards her. But when the Big Mis. occurs, his view of Kate seems to switch instantly. I couldn't understand how he could change his opinion of the woman he loved so quickly, and based on hearsay. This bugged me. I almost didn't want Kate to get back together with him, given how drastically his behaviour changed. Maybe he was too perfect to begin with?
My other issue is more of a personal pet peeve, and others might not pick up on this at all. I noticed some disturbing victim-blaming regarding the scene where Nathaniel uses violence to defend Kate from the men in the alley. As a pacifist, he feels uncomfortable with this, but he felt compelled to defend Kate, but he still feels sad for a while after the event, given how non-violence is central to his faith and he has failed in this respect. Lots of people in the community blame Kate for forcing Nathaniel to use violence. Forcing! In what way did she force him? By taking a wrong turn and ending up in alley with some men who could well have beaten or raped her? The comments made by people in the community--and Kate's own family--were worryingly similar to the whole rhetoric of "If she hadn't been wearing such a short skirt, he wouldn't have raped her." Kate in no way asked those men to attack her, forcing Nathaniel to jump to her defence. But a lot of the people in her community acted like it was her fault for being in the alley, or attracting the men's attention. There was also a comment about a woman "cheapening" herself by sleeping with someone before she was married, which made it sound like she was some sort of product or commodity for men to consume. Again, unless you read a lot of feminist literature, you might not pick up on this rhetoric at all, but it was difficult for me to overlook.
Also, considering how important Aaron and his wife were to the story, I wished we'd had some insight into the motivations behind how judgemental they were. Ada sometimes seemed like she meant well, but just didn't think before she spoke, but Aaron sometimes came across like a Disney villain.
Ultimately, this wasn't a bad read. Some of my issues with this book purely stemmed from being unable to relate to the characters and their actions. For a debut novel, this novel did show promise. The plot was definitely unique, and I loved the details about Kate's music career. The story poised some interesting questions about pacifism--which, as a pacifist, I'm all too aware of--and whether anyone can really be a complete pacifist, when faced with violence and the need to defend someone. I think, given some stronger conflict and further development of secondary characters, Jennifer Beckstrand could write a very compelling story. I'd definitely be willing to read another of her books to see how her writing develops. And the different issues raised in this book made for a great book club discussion! 3*
I don't wan to spoil too much, but the main conflict revolves around a big misunderstanding stemming from a lack of communication between the hero and heroine. If you've read any of my reviews, you'll know that I really dislike this plot device simply because I'm not the kind of person who avoids talking to people when I'm upset, or sits brooding over a problem rather than dealing with it. I tend to be proactive about discussing things and addressing problems before they escalate, so I couldn't understand Nathaniel's actions. Rather than feeling sorry for him, I was just annoyed that he wouldn't go and talk to the woman he supposedly loved.
The romance between Nathaniel and Kate is super sweet, maybe even too sweet in places, but I did really like Nathaniel's character at the start of their relationship. He didn't judge Kate based on her past behaviour and was always kind and caring towards her. But when the Big Mis. occurs, his view of Kate seems to switch instantly. I couldn't understand how he could change his opinion of the woman he loved so quickly, and based on hearsay. This bugged me. I almost didn't want Kate to get back together with him, given how drastically his behaviour changed. Maybe he was too perfect to begin with?
My other issue is more of a personal pet peeve, and others might not pick up on this at all. I noticed some disturbing victim-blaming regarding the scene where Nathaniel uses violence to defend Kate from the men in the alley. As a pacifist, he feels uncomfortable with this, but he felt compelled to defend Kate, but he still feels sad for a while after the event, given how non-violence is central to his faith and he has failed in this respect. Lots of people in the community blame Kate for forcing Nathaniel to use violence. Forcing! In what way did she force him? By taking a wrong turn and ending up in alley with some men who could well have beaten or raped her? The comments made by people in the community--and Kate's own family--were worryingly similar to the whole rhetoric of "If she hadn't been wearing such a short skirt, he wouldn't have raped her." Kate in no way asked those men to attack her, forcing Nathaniel to jump to her defence. But a lot of the people in her community acted like it was her fault for being in the alley, or attracting the men's attention. There was also a comment about a woman "cheapening" herself by sleeping with someone before she was married, which made it sound like she was some sort of product or commodity for men to consume. Again, unless you read a lot of feminist literature, you might not pick up on this rhetoric at all, but it was difficult for me to overlook.
Also, considering how important Aaron and his wife were to the story, I wished we'd had some insight into the motivations behind how judgemental they were. Ada sometimes seemed like she meant well, but just didn't think before she spoke, but Aaron sometimes came across like a Disney villain.
Ultimately, this wasn't a bad read. Some of my issues with this book purely stemmed from being unable to relate to the characters and their actions. For a debut novel, this novel did show promise. The plot was definitely unique, and I loved the details about Kate's music career. The story poised some interesting questions about pacifism--which, as a pacifist, I'm all too aware of--and whether anyone can really be a complete pacifist, when faced with violence and the need to defend someone. I think, given some stronger conflict and further development of secondary characters, Jennifer Beckstrand could write a very compelling story. I'd definitely be willing to read another of her books to see how her writing develops. And the different issues raised in this book made for a great book club discussion! 3*
February 20, 2023
I was surprised by this story because the author tackles many serious subjects that challenge the characters and the teachings in the Amish Ordnung in ways that I haven’t experienced in my reading to date. Kate returns to her Amish community while on break from college student where she’s reunited with a young man she sparred with in her youth. She has a beautiful singing voice and her parents are supportive of her dreams, even if they carry her away from her Amish roots. I loved Nathaniel’s unwavering support of Kate’s dreams and the love that slowly grows between them but Kate’s eldest brother vociferously disagrees with her rebelliousness and harps on her to change her evil ways which leads to misunderstandings, machinations and downright lies. Kate and Nathaniel’s story is thought provoking and their faith is tested in many ways but the lessons they learn taught me things about my relationship with God and was mesmerized by their emotional and ultimately heartwarming journey.
March 16, 2013
I had a like / dislike relationship with this book.
I loved watching Katie grow in her relationship with God, seeing her get angry and question her relationship. Most readers can understand those feelings.
There was one point I was so disappointed in where the book was going that I had to put the book down and walk away.
As with most Amish books I read there was an accident that was a major turning point and also a misunderstanding. I don't understand after spending so much time together there wasn't more trust in that relationship and then how quickly there was a new relationship and how serious it become so quickly.
Also with most Amish books there are a lot of characters brought in and I know that is because there are other books coming in the series but it makes it hard to follow sometimes.
I loved watching Katie grow in her relationship with God, seeing her get angry and question her relationship. Most readers can understand those feelings.
There was one point I was so disappointed in where the book was going that I had to put the book down and walk away.
As with most Amish books I read there was an accident that was a major turning point and also a misunderstanding. I don't understand after spending so much time together there wasn't more trust in that relationship and then how quickly there was a new relationship and how serious it become so quickly.
Also with most Amish books there are a lot of characters brought in and I know that is because there are other books coming in the series but it makes it hard to follow sometimes.
December 8, 2015
I'm a big fan of Jennifer Beckstrand's Huckleberry Hill series, but while there were chunks of this one that I really enjoyed, there was a lot of it that was just downright painful. I don't enjoy books where the conflict is driven solely by misunderstandings, especially when they are purposefully perpetrated by one or more of the characters.
I did appreciate Kate's purity of heart in really seeking to follow God's will for her life despite what others had to say about it. Her tenacity in seeking the Lord was admirable.
I did appreciate Kate's purity of heart in really seeking to follow God's will for her life despite what others had to say about it. Her tenacity in seeking the Lord was admirable.
May 31, 2012
One of my sons knows the woman who wrote this--she lives in Davis County. It is well written, but it had one too many misunderstandings for my taste as it drew to the inevitable conclusion. I can't stand villains that won't die, plot holes, overly emotional heroines and too many obstacles before the happy ending.
May 11, 2025
Wonderful love story!
Amish romances and families joining make for the best stories. Especially when there are trouble makers, desires of the heart and thoughts of wanting, maybe, different futures involved. This tangled web was quite the dilemma throughout. This author never disappoints.
Amish romances and families joining make for the best stories. Especially when there are trouble makers, desires of the heart and thoughts of wanting, maybe, different futures involved. This tangled web was quite the dilemma throughout. This author never disappoints.
September 13, 2012
I wanted to give this book 4 stars but the male protagonist traded in his brain for a skull of rocks. It was irritating to read. This book could've been 100 pages shorter.
October 28, 2012
An interesting story. I just get so frustrated when all the issues are caused because people don't tell each other what is going on.
February 15, 2013
The tension in this book is gripping. I enjoyed this story so much. The characters seemed very real with strengths and weaknesses. I highly recommend it to any fan of Amish novels.
February 18, 2015
What a great read! A lot of research for authenticity went into this book. The dialogue is charmingly Amish and the relationship between the characters amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed every word!
June 24, 2013
So much emotion in this book. Yes I burned the midnight oil for this one too. Sooooooo good!
July 26, 2013
I loved this book. I liked that I knew how I HOPED it would end, but that I was holding my breath until the last few pages. I can't wait to read the others in this series. :)
February 6, 2014
really good book. So much happening. Wonderful Christian message. Had to write down several quotes! First time I've read Jennifer Beckstrand and I am eagerly movin on to book #2!
June 14, 2021
I loved this book. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going it changed course and I could hardly put it aside. Great story and characters! Not the usual Amish genre story!
August 1, 2019
Kate's Song by Jennifer Beckstrand
(Forever After in Apple Lake #1)
Kate Weaver was raised in an Amish home and has always been expected to choose baptism and strict observance of the Ordnung. But Kate is blessed with a beautiful singing voice, and when another path leads her to the academy for vocal training, she struggles to understand God's will for her life. She returns to Apple Lake, haunted by a violent encounter with a fellow student, and finds herself drawn to the peace and devotion of her Amish home. But can she give up her dreams? Or will her calling forever separate her from the people and the way of life she holds so dear? Nathaniel King has never wavered in his commitment to the community and the Old Order Amish Church into which he is baptized. He has been in love with Kate for as long as he can remember, and he is devastated when she leaves Apple Lake to attend the academy. When Kate returns, will she make his most profound hopes a reality--or will she break his heart all over again?
This Kate Weaver and Nathaniel King's story.
Kate Weaver is still on her rumpringa. She left home to attend a music academy and develop her beautiful voice that God blessed her with.
Kate's mother and father were supportive even though their beliefs were different.
Will Kate give up her dreams? Or will her calling forever separate her from the people and the way of life she holds so dear?
Nathaniel King has never wavered in his commitment to the community and the Old Order Amish Church into which he is baptized. He has been in love with Kate for as long as he can remember, and he is devastated when she leaves Apple Lake to attend the academy.
Nathaniel King has been in love with Kate since they were 11 years old.
He is thrilled to have her back in the community where he can court her.
I highly recommend reading.
Kate's Song by Jennifer Beckstrand is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
more books by Jennifer Beckstrand.
Andrew
(Petersheim Brothers, book 1)
Jessie and James
Abraham
(Petersheim Brothers, book 2)
Forever After in Apple Lake
1. Kate's Song
2. Rebecca's Rose
3. Miriam's Quilt
Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill
1. Huckleberry Hill
2. Huckleberry Summer
3. Huckleberry Christmas
4. Huckleberry Spring
5. Huckleberry Harvest
6. Huckleberry Hearts
7. Return to Huckleberry Hill
8. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill
9. Home on Huckleberry Hill
(Forever After in Apple Lake #1)
Kate Weaver was raised in an Amish home and has always been expected to choose baptism and strict observance of the Ordnung. But Kate is blessed with a beautiful singing voice, and when another path leads her to the academy for vocal training, she struggles to understand God's will for her life. She returns to Apple Lake, haunted by a violent encounter with a fellow student, and finds herself drawn to the peace and devotion of her Amish home. But can she give up her dreams? Or will her calling forever separate her from the people and the way of life she holds so dear? Nathaniel King has never wavered in his commitment to the community and the Old Order Amish Church into which he is baptized. He has been in love with Kate for as long as he can remember, and he is devastated when she leaves Apple Lake to attend the academy. When Kate returns, will she make his most profound hopes a reality--or will she break his heart all over again?
This Kate Weaver and Nathaniel King's story.
Kate Weaver is still on her rumpringa. She left home to attend a music academy and develop her beautiful voice that God blessed her with.
Kate's mother and father were supportive even though their beliefs were different.
Will Kate give up her dreams? Or will her calling forever separate her from the people and the way of life she holds so dear?
Nathaniel King has never wavered in his commitment to the community and the Old Order Amish Church into which he is baptized. He has been in love with Kate for as long as he can remember, and he is devastated when she leaves Apple Lake to attend the academy.
Nathaniel King has been in love with Kate since they were 11 years old.
He is thrilled to have her back in the community where he can court her.
I highly recommend reading.
Kate's Song by Jennifer Beckstrand is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
more books by Jennifer Beckstrand.
Andrew
(Petersheim Brothers, book 1)
Jessie and James
Abraham
(Petersheim Brothers, book 2)
Forever After in Apple Lake
1. Kate's Song
2. Rebecca's Rose
3. Miriam's Quilt
Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill
1. Huckleberry Hill
2. Huckleberry Summer
3. Huckleberry Christmas
4. Huckleberry Spring
5. Huckleberry Harvest
6. Huckleberry Hearts
7. Return to Huckleberry Hill
8. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill
9. Home on Huckleberry Hill
March 10, 2025
Vengeance is Mine Sayeth the Lord
Kate's Song, the first book in the Apple Lake Amish series by Jennifer Beckstrand is a strong lesson to all not to rush to judgement.
Told by the POV of the young adult daughter, Kate, of a Wisconsin Amish family. Kate is gifted with an Operatic voice and has spent her Rumspringa, the time before she is baptized, at a voice academy in Milwaukee.
In Amish Families, they pledge themselves to the plain life, doing nothing to bring attention to themselves or participating in the outer world, they call it the Englischer. The only exception is for young people during their Rumspringa.
Kate comes home after two years at the voice academy for the summer. She knows she must make up her mind whether she will be baptized and stay with the Apple Lake Ordnung or commit to the worldly path of a performer, one for which she is emminently suited.
Complicating everything is the quickly growing affection Kate has for her long time friend, Nathaniel King. And the cruel interference by her own brother, Aaron.
I had a hard time reading this book due to the complications that kept Kate and Nathaniel apart. I wanted to tell off a few people! But, as the situation resolved, I realized that my impatience and judgementalism was reflecting the struggles of the characters.
Once again, a beautifully written book, with a high impact moral story, filled with lovable and hateable characters and intensely emotional scenes. Must be a book by Jennifer Beckstrand.
Kate's Song, the first book in the Apple Lake Amish series by Jennifer Beckstrand is a strong lesson to all not to rush to judgement.
Told by the POV of the young adult daughter, Kate, of a Wisconsin Amish family. Kate is gifted with an Operatic voice and has spent her Rumspringa, the time before she is baptized, at a voice academy in Milwaukee.
In Amish Families, they pledge themselves to the plain life, doing nothing to bring attention to themselves or participating in the outer world, they call it the Englischer. The only exception is for young people during their Rumspringa.
Kate comes home after two years at the voice academy for the summer. She knows she must make up her mind whether she will be baptized and stay with the Apple Lake Ordnung or commit to the worldly path of a performer, one for which she is emminently suited.
Complicating everything is the quickly growing affection Kate has for her long time friend, Nathaniel King. And the cruel interference by her own brother, Aaron.
I had a hard time reading this book due to the complications that kept Kate and Nathaniel apart. I wanted to tell off a few people! But, as the situation resolved, I realized that my impatience and judgementalism was reflecting the struggles of the characters.
Once again, a beautifully written book, with a high impact moral story, filled with lovable and hateable characters and intensely emotional scenes. Must be a book by Jennifer Beckstrand.
March 31, 2020
Kate's Song (Apple Lake Amish Book 1) Kindle Edition by Jennifer Beckstrandis a wonderfully told story of lies, misunderstandings, hope, forgiveness, family and undying love.
This is Kate Weaver and Nathaniel King's story. It spans years of knowing one another, loosing one another and finding God's will for their lives and finding one another again.
Kate has a beautiful singing voice, one that takes her into the English world with all its' opportunities and troubles.
Will Kate and Nathaniel's love last forever? Only time will tell.
The author offered a free download of this series and I hight recommend you reading it. Thank you, Jennifer.
This is Kate Weaver and Nathaniel King's story. It spans years of knowing one another, loosing one another and finding God's will for their lives and finding one another again.
Kate has a beautiful singing voice, one that takes her into the English world with all its' opportunities and troubles.
Will Kate and Nathaniel's love last forever? Only time will tell.
The author offered a free download of this series and I hight recommend you reading it. Thank you, Jennifer.
January 27, 2018
I thought this book was a lot more nuanced than I expected at first glance. I appreciated Kate's struggle in finding her place in God's plan, and saw unexpected parallels to my own journey with finding 'my' song. I also appreciated how Elmer was willing to stick up for his sister.
Unfortunately, I did not end up liking Nathaniel very much. His actions, and who he ended up trusting were definitely cringe-worthy. (And that's as far as I can go without giving major spoilers.)
This was my first Jennifer Beckstrand book, but it will not be my last.
3.5 stars
Unfortunately, I did not end up liking Nathaniel very much. His actions, and who he ended up trusting were definitely cringe-worthy. (And that's as far as I can go without giving major spoilers.)
This was my first Jennifer Beckstrand book, but it will not be my last.
3.5 stars
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