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Amish Garden
Where Healing Blooms
Gardens are a place to rest, to draw near, and to heal.
When Widow Emma Hochstetter discovers a run-away teenager in her barn, and the bishop asks her to provide a haven for a local woman and her two children she finds her quiet life has been interrupted. Then, her mother-in-law, Mary Ann, reveals one of her garden's hidden secrets, something very unexpected. Will she continue alone or will she accept the gifts God has given her?
When Widow Emma Hochstetter discovers a run-away teenager in her barn, and the bishop asks her to provide a haven for a local woman and her two children she finds her quiet life has been interrupted. Then, her mother-in-law, Mary Ann, reveals one of her garden's hidden secrets, something very unexpected. Will she continue alone or will she accept the gifts God has given her?
108 pages, Paperback
First published June 17, 2014
22 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Vannetta Chapman
128 books1,453 followersVannetta Chapman is a New York times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over t0 novels. She has sold over one million copies and writes in a variety of genres that include dystopian, suspense, dystopian, romantic suspense, romance, and cozy mystery.
Chapman has 25 years educational experience as an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.
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Chapman has 25 years educational experience as an English teacher at the high school and collegiate level. She currently resides in the Texas Hill Country where she writes full times.
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a free ebook! For more information, visit her at http://vannettachapman.com
https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman
https://www.facebook.com/VannettaChap...
http://vannettachapman.com/blog/
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 10, 2018
Where Healing Blooms by Vannetta Chapman
Genre: Amish, Christian Romance
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: Present day
Location: Shipshewana, IN
Main Characters:
Emma Hochstetter: Widow living with her mother-in-law
Mary Ann: Emma’s 84 year old mother-in-law
Danny Eicher: Man who loved Emma since childhood
Joseph Lapp: Boy who ran away from home
Nancy Schlabach: Abused Amish woman
An Amish novella I rather enjoyed. It was a bit different.
- Amish men most often are farmers or work with wood or horses. Danny is a writer and has travelled for nearly 30 years for stories, always single and maintaining his Amish faith.
- Emma’s fifty year old body is going through some changes and she’s a bit moody in the beginning.
- Her mother-in-law is a sweet lady full of wisdom and a twinkle in her eye.
- Then there’s a run-away Amish boy who takes up residence in what he thinks is an unused part of Emma’s shed.
- Plus an abused Amish woman who needs a place to recover and you have a complex surprising novella with lots of detail (and healing) to make it such an entertaining read.
As my friends know, I’m not a fan of novellas, but I can honestly say, this had a lot to it, enough to be a full novel, with a few more pages.
Genre: Amish, Christian Romance
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: Present day
Location: Shipshewana, IN
Main Characters:
Emma Hochstetter: Widow living with her mother-in-law
Mary Ann: Emma’s 84 year old mother-in-law
Danny Eicher: Man who loved Emma since childhood
Joseph Lapp: Boy who ran away from home
Nancy Schlabach: Abused Amish woman
An Amish novella I rather enjoyed. It was a bit different.
- Amish men most often are farmers or work with wood or horses. Danny is a writer and has travelled for nearly 30 years for stories, always single and maintaining his Amish faith.
- Emma’s fifty year old body is going through some changes and she’s a bit moody in the beginning.
- Her mother-in-law is a sweet lady full of wisdom and a twinkle in her eye.
- Then there’s a run-away Amish boy who takes up residence in what he thinks is an unused part of Emma’s shed.
- Plus an abused Amish woman who needs a place to recover and you have a complex surprising novella with lots of detail (and healing) to make it such an entertaining read.
As my friends know, I’m not a fan of novellas, but I can honestly say, this had a lot to it, enough to be a full novel, with a few more pages.
March 10, 2014
In Where Healing Blooms, Emma is a widow living with her elderly mother-in-law. Life has been hard the past year, but change soon comes in the form of people in need of shelter and a caring heart. This novella left me with a very peaceful feeling. There is a sweet romance, a rebirth of love, and the overwhelming feeling of hope for the future and healing to be found.
Where Healing Blooms is one of four novellas featured in An Amish Garden. In each novella, a garden is central to the storyline. The themes of hope and healing, and learning to let go and trust in God completely are woven with sweet romantic stories to make for a very enjoyable collection. I truly enjoyed every single story.
I received a complimentary copy of An Amish Garden in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
Where Healing Blooms is one of four novellas featured in An Amish Garden. In each novella, a garden is central to the storyline. The themes of hope and healing, and learning to let go and trust in God completely are woven with sweet romantic stories to make for a very enjoyable collection. I truly enjoyed every single story.
I received a complimentary copy of An Amish Garden in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
March 3, 2014
In this collection of four novellas I particularly liked “Where Healing Blooms,” by Vanetta Chapman.
Emma Hochstetter is a widow, mother, and grandmother whose prayer is that her elderly mother-in-law will never die and leave her alone on their little farm. As she straightens herself up from weeding her garden, knees popping and shoulders aching, she spots someone exiting her barn and running off.
Of course Emma is alarmed by the trespasser. However, where I would have shrunk back with caution, Emma takes off running to try to catch him!
An excellent story of an older woman’s entry into her “next life.” It’s the same boat I’m in after a rewarding stint at managing my home-full of young children. It was encouraging to me to follow along with Emma, and be reminded that we serve a God who makes all things new.
Danny stops by the garden and works in the garden beside her, and she enjoys his company. But he’d courted her many years ago and left town. Will he become more than just a helpful neighbor?
Emma had a happy marriage with Ben and enjoys her family, but instead of slowing down and cutting back on her responsibilities, will she open her heart to help others find a place of healing?
by Kathy Sheldon Davis
Emma Hochstetter is a widow, mother, and grandmother whose prayer is that her elderly mother-in-law will never die and leave her alone on their little farm. As she straightens herself up from weeding her garden, knees popping and shoulders aching, she spots someone exiting her barn and running off.
Of course Emma is alarmed by the trespasser. However, where I would have shrunk back with caution, Emma takes off running to try to catch him!
An excellent story of an older woman’s entry into her “next life.” It’s the same boat I’m in after a rewarding stint at managing my home-full of young children. It was encouraging to me to follow along with Emma, and be reminded that we serve a God who makes all things new.
Danny stops by the garden and works in the garden beside her, and she enjoys his company. But he’d courted her many years ago and left town. Will he become more than just a helpful neighbor?
Emma had a happy marriage with Ben and enjoys her family, but instead of slowing down and cutting back on her responsibilities, will she open her heart to help others find a place of healing?
by Kathy Sheldon Davis
March 17, 2014
Where Healing Blooms
By: Vannetta Chapman
Both Emma and her mother-in-law Mary Ann have lost their husbands. They share a home together in Shipshewana. They have a beautiful garden that they spend lots of time in. One day Emma finds a runaway teen in her barn. The Bishop ask Emma to take in a woman and her children. Now her mother-in -law Mary Ann has a secret about her garden that she has been keeping to herself for years. The two of them was contented with their lives , but now everything has changed. Will Emma ever find her place where healing blooms?
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and the author for my honest review.
November 29, 2019
Enjoyed this story.
May 22, 2014
This wonderful book, which entails four Novellas, written by four wonderful authors, shows how the gardens in our lives help us to move ahead and as stated in the final novella by the very talented author, Vannetta Chapman, Gardens will bless your soul.
“They are a place to rest, to draw near, and to heal.” I especially loved that line and marked it as I was reading the book, because that is how I truly feel about gardens, as well.
My Review:
1. Rooted in Love, Beth Wiseman
Rosemary Lantz is the main character in this story. She is a talented young woman except that gardening has its challenges for her. In her courting days, she was together with Saul until she hears a secret about him that at her age of 16, causes her to separate from him. This was a hard thing for both of them, but Rosemary knows that a life with Saul under these circumstances would never work. As they begin to work together in her garden, they share work and laughter together. I especially liked the part with Rosemary’s father and there was a part that brought me to tears as I read the feelings between the two of them.
2. Flowers for Rachael, Kathleen Fuller
Rachael has a beautiful flower garden and spent most days tending to it. She loves her garden and even finds herself talking to her flowers, perhaps because she is lonely. She apparently has a secret admirer, however, as suddenly and daily a beautiful flower appears for her with a very short note. She has no idea who is bringing the flowers, although she hopes it might be Gideon. Yet, it appears not to be as he seems unaware of the flowers’ meanings when she gives a flower to Gideon.
Rachael cares for her grandfather and finds him collapsed one day, which leads to a hospital stay and Rachael feels she needs to be her grandfather’s caretaker. Her grandfather insists she needs to tend to her life and that God will take care of things all in their due time. Rachael still is worried about her grandfather but discovers that she must learn to trust.
3. Seeds of Love, Tricia Goyer
This novella takes place in Montana and the main character is Sadie Chupp who is a young woman whose late mother left her with a legacy, heirloom seeds that are her special remembrances of her dear parents. She seems to harbor some unhappy feelings towards her siblings, who, after the deaths of their parents, sold the family home. Sadie being the youngest was heartbroken and moves to her uncle in Montana to start fresh. She brings her mother’s seeds and plans a garden to continue to keep the feeling of her parents close to her. A company has wanted to buy the heirloom seeds, but Sadie’s mother had not wanted to do so, because the seeds had belonged to her family for generations.
She meets Eli who wants to help her with her gardening. As time passes she and Eli have a misunderstanding and Sadie is beyond sad. Her garden undergoes lots of damage and the heirloom seeds have all been planted. How will she ever be able to repair the damage that a bear cub has done?
The biggest surprise yet occurs when Sadie meets Eli’s grandfather.
4. Where Healing Blooms, Vannetta Chapman
Emma is a widow who lives with Mary Ann, her mother-in-law. Mary Ann has a beautiful garden that she lovingly tends. Emma tries to find a purpose in life now that her children are grown. She learns that a runaway Amish boy has been hiding in her barn. She tries to know how she can help him at this troubled time of his life. She leaves food and hopes that he will feel that he can trust her to help him. She also is asked by the bishop to house an abused Amish woman and her two children. They find a safe refuge at Emma’s and begin to work together.
Emma begins to find some meaning to her life and purpose
Her old friend, Danny, has returned home after many years absence. She had once hoped that they would marry, but Danny had disappointed her by moving away to pursue his life’s plans leaving Emma alone and to marry another. Emma feels she is too old now to find love again in her life.
Mary Ann’s garden holds a secret which she reveals to Emma and Danny that may just change both of their lives.
These four stories will touch your heart. These four authors share how gardens can help you find peace, faith, endurance, hope and healing. I loved them all!
A Wedding For Julia
It has actually been a little while since I read A Wedding for Julia, but now I am trying to recall things and reading a bit of it again so that I hopefully remember things correctly. I do remember that I really enjoyed this book and that is why I wanted to write about it on my blog.
This book is part of a series of Amish books but was actually the first book of the series that I read. I think that I might need to take some time to read books 1 and 2 because this one was so enjoyable to read.
The main character is Julia Beechy. Her mother, Ada, tells her that she has to marry or move from the family home when she passes. Her mother Ada insists that the house be sold and that Julia moves back to Pennsylvania where relatives are still living. But Julia has lived in Pebble Creek her whole life and had hoped to realize a dream of opening a cafe. Because of her mother’s failing health, Julia is very concerned as to what direction her future will lead her. This causes lots of stress and worry for Julia. She is not sure how she will go about changing this situation that her mother unexpectedly caused.
Caleb Zook, who, like Julia, is also getting older than the expected marriage age of the Amish, suggests that they marry in order to help Julia out of this predicament. But Julia is unsure whether she could marry someone she doesn’t love even though Caleb is a helpful man, and a very hard worker. As they get to know one another, perhaps some feelings are being kindled that surprise both of them.
A horrible tornado comes to Pebble Creek like has not been seen in this area of Wisconsin in more than one hundred years. The Amish people must now do what Amish people seem to do very well and that is to help their friends and neighbors and pray that all survive the terrible destruction.
The characters, Caleb and Julia seem to mesh together well as they work together after the storm. The community comes together when the need is there, also. As I read this book, I couldn’t put it down. I am also grateful to authors such as Vannetta Chapmann who write books of a Christian nature that have good moral values, as well as guidelines for each of us on working together and building strong family relationships. An excellent book! I just loved it! It's a wonderful story and well worth reading!
“They are a place to rest, to draw near, and to heal.” I especially loved that line and marked it as I was reading the book, because that is how I truly feel about gardens, as well.
My Review:
1. Rooted in Love, Beth Wiseman
Rosemary Lantz is the main character in this story. She is a talented young woman except that gardening has its challenges for her. In her courting days, she was together with Saul until she hears a secret about him that at her age of 16, causes her to separate from him. This was a hard thing for both of them, but Rosemary knows that a life with Saul under these circumstances would never work. As they begin to work together in her garden, they share work and laughter together. I especially liked the part with Rosemary’s father and there was a part that brought me to tears as I read the feelings between the two of them.
2. Flowers for Rachael, Kathleen Fuller
Rachael has a beautiful flower garden and spent most days tending to it. She loves her garden and even finds herself talking to her flowers, perhaps because she is lonely. She apparently has a secret admirer, however, as suddenly and daily a beautiful flower appears for her with a very short note. She has no idea who is bringing the flowers, although she hopes it might be Gideon. Yet, it appears not to be as he seems unaware of the flowers’ meanings when she gives a flower to Gideon.
Rachael cares for her grandfather and finds him collapsed one day, which leads to a hospital stay and Rachael feels she needs to be her grandfather’s caretaker. Her grandfather insists she needs to tend to her life and that God will take care of things all in their due time. Rachael still is worried about her grandfather but discovers that she must learn to trust.
3. Seeds of Love, Tricia Goyer
This novella takes place in Montana and the main character is Sadie Chupp who is a young woman whose late mother left her with a legacy, heirloom seeds that are her special remembrances of her dear parents. She seems to harbor some unhappy feelings towards her siblings, who, after the deaths of their parents, sold the family home. Sadie being the youngest was heartbroken and moves to her uncle in Montana to start fresh. She brings her mother’s seeds and plans a garden to continue to keep the feeling of her parents close to her. A company has wanted to buy the heirloom seeds, but Sadie’s mother had not wanted to do so, because the seeds had belonged to her family for generations.
She meets Eli who wants to help her with her gardening. As time passes she and Eli have a misunderstanding and Sadie is beyond sad. Her garden undergoes lots of damage and the heirloom seeds have all been planted. How will she ever be able to repair the damage that a bear cub has done?
The biggest surprise yet occurs when Sadie meets Eli’s grandfather.
4. Where Healing Blooms, Vannetta Chapman
Emma is a widow who lives with Mary Ann, her mother-in-law. Mary Ann has a beautiful garden that she lovingly tends. Emma tries to find a purpose in life now that her children are grown. She learns that a runaway Amish boy has been hiding in her barn. She tries to know how she can help him at this troubled time of his life. She leaves food and hopes that he will feel that he can trust her to help him. She also is asked by the bishop to house an abused Amish woman and her two children. They find a safe refuge at Emma’s and begin to work together.
Emma begins to find some meaning to her life and purpose
Her old friend, Danny, has returned home after many years absence. She had once hoped that they would marry, but Danny had disappointed her by moving away to pursue his life’s plans leaving Emma alone and to marry another. Emma feels she is too old now to find love again in her life.
Mary Ann’s garden holds a secret which she reveals to Emma and Danny that may just change both of their lives.
These four stories will touch your heart. These four authors share how gardens can help you find peace, faith, endurance, hope and healing. I loved them all!
A Wedding For Julia
It has actually been a little while since I read A Wedding for Julia, but now I am trying to recall things and reading a bit of it again so that I hopefully remember things correctly. I do remember that I really enjoyed this book and that is why I wanted to write about it on my blog.
This book is part of a series of Amish books but was actually the first book of the series that I read. I think that I might need to take some time to read books 1 and 2 because this one was so enjoyable to read.
The main character is Julia Beechy. Her mother, Ada, tells her that she has to marry or move from the family home when she passes. Her mother Ada insists that the house be sold and that Julia moves back to Pennsylvania where relatives are still living. But Julia has lived in Pebble Creek her whole life and had hoped to realize a dream of opening a cafe. Because of her mother’s failing health, Julia is very concerned as to what direction her future will lead her. This causes lots of stress and worry for Julia. She is not sure how she will go about changing this situation that her mother unexpectedly caused.
Caleb Zook, who, like Julia, is also getting older than the expected marriage age of the Amish, suggests that they marry in order to help Julia out of this predicament. But Julia is unsure whether she could marry someone she doesn’t love even though Caleb is a helpful man, and a very hard worker. As they get to know one another, perhaps some feelings are being kindled that surprise both of them.
A horrible tornado comes to Pebble Creek like has not been seen in this area of Wisconsin in more than one hundred years. The Amish people must now do what Amish people seem to do very well and that is to help their friends and neighbors and pray that all survive the terrible destruction.
The characters, Caleb and Julia seem to mesh together well as they work together after the storm. The community comes together when the need is there, also. As I read this book, I couldn’t put it down. I am also grateful to authors such as Vannetta Chapmann who write books of a Christian nature that have good moral values, as well as guidelines for each of us on working together and building strong family relationships. An excellent book! I just loved it! It's a wonderful story and well worth reading!
May 30, 2014
I was excited to see this book - several of my favorite authors, and a subject that is dear to my heart - and it did not disappoint!
In "Rooted in Love," Beth Wiseman shows the age-old cost of eavesdropping. Will Rosemary miss out on the love of her life because she thinks she knows what's best for her future? The chemistry between her and Saul is true to life. I couldn't put this book down as I ached for them to experience God's best.
In "Flowers for Rachel," Kathleen Fuller writes a love story of shy and awkward Gideon and Rachel. Each chapter begins with a quote related to flowers, and they nicely summarize the growing relationship between these Amish young people. I felt this story was a bit predictable, but I like the ways the characters learned to show their love for one another.
Tricia Goyer gives us another glimpse into the Amish community of West Kootenai, Montana in "Seeds of Love"(If you haven't read her "Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series, or the "Big Sky" novels that preceded those, this is a good excuse to start!). Sadie Chupp and Eli Plank are strangers who meet in a small Amish settlement when he travels west seeking adventure...or are they? It turns out their families knew each other in Indiana, and the connection wasn't always so friendly! Eli is a scribe for "The Budget," an Amish newspaper featuring letters from writers living in scores of different Amish communities. His wit and skills of observation make him well-suited to handle Sadie and her reservations. As usual, Goyer has a few twists up her sleeve, and gives a satisfying ending to this garden tale.
Last but certainly not least, Vannetta Chapman shows us "Where Healing Blooms." This is more than a romantic love story - it also describes the deep love and friendship between a woman and her mother-in-law (not unlike Ruth and Naomi in Scripture). This story of faith and redemption and yes, buried treasure, revolves around the family garden. As wise mother-n-law Mary Ann says, "Gardens are a reflection of God's love for us," and how gently and winsomely we see Emma and Danny discover that truth in a new way. This story describes the Amish commitment to the good of the community, not just one's own prosperity. I was delighted to watch these characters lean to deal with their pasts and come together for a common future. As Chapman quotes, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every purpose under heaven." I loved that this novella was based on mature characters, and not the usual fresh-faced 'maedel.'
Any one of these authors cold have written a full book on their storyline, but I really enjoyed having these nuggets together in one book. The time you spend here in these "gardens" will be fruitful time indeed.
In "Rooted in Love," Beth Wiseman shows the age-old cost of eavesdropping. Will Rosemary miss out on the love of her life because she thinks she knows what's best for her future? The chemistry between her and Saul is true to life. I couldn't put this book down as I ached for them to experience God's best.
In "Flowers for Rachel," Kathleen Fuller writes a love story of shy and awkward Gideon and Rachel. Each chapter begins with a quote related to flowers, and they nicely summarize the growing relationship between these Amish young people. I felt this story was a bit predictable, but I like the ways the characters learned to show their love for one another.
Tricia Goyer gives us another glimpse into the Amish community of West Kootenai, Montana in "Seeds of Love"(If you haven't read her "Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series, or the "Big Sky" novels that preceded those, this is a good excuse to start!). Sadie Chupp and Eli Plank are strangers who meet in a small Amish settlement when he travels west seeking adventure...or are they? It turns out their families knew each other in Indiana, and the connection wasn't always so friendly! Eli is a scribe for "The Budget," an Amish newspaper featuring letters from writers living in scores of different Amish communities. His wit and skills of observation make him well-suited to handle Sadie and her reservations. As usual, Goyer has a few twists up her sleeve, and gives a satisfying ending to this garden tale.
Last but certainly not least, Vannetta Chapman shows us "Where Healing Blooms." This is more than a romantic love story - it also describes the deep love and friendship between a woman and her mother-in-law (not unlike Ruth and Naomi in Scripture). This story of faith and redemption and yes, buried treasure, revolves around the family garden. As wise mother-n-law Mary Ann says, "Gardens are a reflection of God's love for us," and how gently and winsomely we see Emma and Danny discover that truth in a new way. This story describes the Amish commitment to the good of the community, not just one's own prosperity. I was delighted to watch these characters lean to deal with their pasts and come together for a common future. As Chapman quotes, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every purpose under heaven." I loved that this novella was based on mature characters, and not the usual fresh-faced 'maedel.'
Any one of these authors cold have written a full book on their storyline, but I really enjoyed having these nuggets together in one book. The time you spend here in these "gardens" will be fruitful time indeed.
April 24, 2014
This story is different, in a good way, than most Amish books that I have read, but don't let that fool you. The main two characters are two widowed women, related by marriage. Daughter-in-law, Emma and mother-in-law, Mary Ann live in the same house that they have shared since Emma married into the Hochstetter family. Now it is just the two of them taking care of each other and the property. The neighbor man, Danny Eicher, whom is friend of the family, keeps a helping eye on the two of them and helps in the garden. But is there someone else on the property?
Mary Ann Hochstetter was my favorite character. Yes, she was old and wise, but she was so funny that one would not have thought she was old as what she was in the book just by reading it. And she had a secret up her sleeve as well. She revealed it at just the right time.
I loved Where Healing Blooms: An Amish Garden Novella by Vannetta Chapman so much that I did not want to see this short story end. I hope in the future we see/read more about the Wilkumm Haus.
Mary Ann Hochstetter was my favorite character. Yes, she was old and wise, but she was so funny that one would not have thought she was old as what she was in the book just by reading it. And she had a secret up her sleeve as well. She revealed it at just the right time.
I loved Where Healing Blooms: An Amish Garden Novella by Vannetta Chapman so much that I did not want to see this short story end. I hope in the future we see/read more about the Wilkumm Haus.
August 7, 2016
Vannetta Chapman has penned a beautiful novella, which I adore! Where Healing Blooms is like a breath of fresh air!
I quickly fell in love with Emma Hochstetter and her mother-in-law, Mary Ann. Emma’s loving heart and Mary Ann’s wonderful words of wisdom are simply delightful! Their story is as special as the garden they so lovingly tend. As Mary Ann said, “Gardens are a place to rest, to draw near, and to heal.” These words are so true of the garden in this lovely story, where hope and healing spring forth and romance blossoms.
Where Healing Blooms is one of four novellas included in the collection, An Amish Garden. It is a fantastic collection and each of the four novellas is refreshing, unique, and a delight to read!
I received a complimentary copy of An Amish Garden in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
I quickly fell in love with Emma Hochstetter and her mother-in-law, Mary Ann. Emma’s loving heart and Mary Ann’s wonderful words of wisdom are simply delightful! Their story is as special as the garden they so lovingly tend. As Mary Ann said, “Gardens are a place to rest, to draw near, and to heal.” These words are so true of the garden in this lovely story, where hope and healing spring forth and romance blossoms.
Where Healing Blooms is one of four novellas included in the collection, An Amish Garden. It is a fantastic collection and each of the four novellas is refreshing, unique, and a delight to read!
I received a complimentary copy of An Amish Garden in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
June 17, 2014
Spring has arrived in Shipshewana, and Mary Ann's garden is once again her haven. Her daughter-in-law, Emma, joins her in weeding and tending to the garden, more expansive and prolific with each passing year. The garden haven holds secrets that no one could suspect. Vannetta Chapman weaves a story with depth and perception that places her in a category all her own. Her characters are strong and the setting picturesque. There's no guessing the ensuing events in this well-written novella. Much diversity is revealed in this extraordinary short story and I craved more, but the author wrapped up all loose ends bringing closure to this impressive novella.
September 30, 2014
When I began reading this novella, I expected a short, simple romance, obviously involving Emma Hochstetter.
Shame on me!
How on earth could I not expect Vannetta to shine – even in a novella!
I love the relationship between Emma and her mother-in-law. It’s truly a blessing – for both ladies.
From there the story really takes off, with one surprise after another…
If you’re a follower, you know I don’t write spoilers ( at least none that haven’t been revealed in the synopsis) so I can’t say more, except to tell you if you get the chance, buy The Amish Garden and read the wonderful stories for yourself!
July 21, 2020
Where Healing Blooms
By Vanetta Chapman
It's been a long time since I've read or listened to an Amish book! This is part of an audiobook boxset, and without Tricia Goyer's name amongst the authors, I probably wouldn't have bought it!
This was a wonderful story about God's purposes, His timing, and healing! Not just for the families that found her home a sanctuary, but for her heart as well!
By Vanetta Chapman
It's been a long time since I've read or listened to an Amish book! This is part of an audiobook boxset, and without Tricia Goyer's name amongst the authors, I probably wouldn't have bought it!
This was a wonderful story about God's purposes, His timing, and healing! Not just for the families that found her home a sanctuary, but for her heart as well!
September 18, 2016
I enjoyed this read about a couple finding love at 50. It was a second chance romance. There was also issues of domestic abuse interwoven. I thought the author handled those issues with compassion. Very intriguing and well written. Recommend.
April 7, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - the first I've read from Vanetta Chapman. An affirmation of all that we can learn from God's beautiful creations.
October 16, 2014
Love the fact that 4 authors got together and wrote about gardening, love and mystery in one book.
March 31, 2025
Where Healing Blooms
I really enjoyed this novella, and I wished it was longer. Despite the length, I loved the people in the book. Hopefully, the author will bring these characters into another of her Shipshewana stories.
I really enjoyed this novella, and I wished it was longer. Despite the length, I loved the people in the book. Hopefully, the author will bring these characters into another of her Shipshewana stories.
November 3, 2020
Charming characters. Sweet story.
December 16, 2021
A really good book about friendship, community and love. How healing can take place and how hearts can be healed. Gods love shines throughout this story and reminds us of Gods love.
May 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, but it needs a book two or maybe a series.
November 25, 2014
My first book by Vannetta Chapman, not my last by any means. I thought this story of Emma and Danny was cute, neither of them were teenagers courting, Emma was a widow of about a year and aged 51, Danny almost the same age, had never married. When they were younger, they courted, but Danny left to travel and write, Emma married her husband Ben and together they had 6 kids, all grown with kids of their own now.
What bring these two together is Emma's garden, a young runaway and a abused woman in need of a safe haven.
But the Amish are more connected then this, they help each other, someone would have been helping Emma and her mother-in-law with the garden, it would have not been all on them to handle. I am not as familiar with the Shipshewana Amish as I am with the Pennsylvania Amish, but I don't think Mrs. Chapman did enough research for this novella.
What bring these two together is Emma's garden, a young runaway and a abused woman in need of a safe haven.
But the Amish are more connected then this, they help each other, someone would have been helping Emma and her mother-in-law with the garden, it would have not been all on them to handle. I am not as familiar with the Shipshewana Amish as I am with the Pennsylvania Amish, but I don't think Mrs. Chapman did enough research for this novella.
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