Emma Blooms At Last

Home at Cedar Creek #3

by Naomi King

Romance is in the air during the fall wedding season in the Amish community of Cedar Creek. But while one loving couple prepares to tie the knot, Amanda and Wyman Brubaker’s large family faces a threat from outside their happy circle…and must learn to pull together.

Recently wed Amanda and Wyman Brubaker are thrilled that their children from previous marriages have blended together to form a strong family. But when the construction of Wyman’s new grain elevator is delayed, making the project more expensive than anticipated, Amanda’s determination to rally the kids into taking on work to improve the family’s finances comes into conflict with Wyman’s sense of responsibility as head of the household....

Meanwhile, as James Graber and Abby Lambright prepare for their long-awaited nuptials, folks gather from far and wide. Amanda’s nephew Jerome has long been smitten with James’s sister Emma and wants to seize this chance to woo her. But Emma’s been burned once and is twice shy of trusting the fun-loving, never-serious Jerome. As Emma and Jerome struggle to understand each other, and find the courage to make a leap of faith, the Brubakers face a bigger challenge than they first anticipated and begin to discover just what it means to fight…the Amish way.

Genres: Amish, Romance, Amish Fiction, Christian Fiction, Novels, Inspirational, Christian

320 pages, Paperback

First published November 4, 2014

About the author

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian Naomi King (a.k.a. Charlotte Hubbard) writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Seasons of the Heart series. Like her heroine, Miriam Lantz, Charlotte considers it her personal mission to feed people—to share hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and food preservation are hallmarks of her lifestyle, and the foundation of her earlier Angels of Mercy series. She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Charlotte now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie.

Reviews

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four and a half stars.
Recently married Amanda and Wyman Brubaker are happy that eight children from previous marriages hav blended tofather as a family. When Wymans grain
Elevator construction is deleted bout price increased drastically, Amanda rallies the kids to pitch in and help with work to help family finances.
Abby and James Lambright are preparing for their wedding which involves a lot of help from other Amish families. Amanda’s nephew Jerome is attracted Emma Graber, Abby’s good friend and sister of Jerome’s friend James. Jerome wants to court Emma but like a skittish horse she shies away. Will they ever connect? And what will the Brubakers have to face together to obtain justice and that grain elevator built?
This is book two in the series and I had not read book 1. Maybe that was the problem? But it took me a little bit to get into this book, but once I settled into who was who, it turned out to be a charming read. I really liked all the main characters, the emphasis on family and faith, and the details of Amish living. Interesting to read what is allowed and what is not. Fun to see that one of the family’s favourite board games was Settlers of Catan, a favourite of our family too.
A gentle read that drew me quietly in with maybe a tear or two along the way. Very clearly Christian fiction with the Amish beliefs explored. I enjoyed it much more than I initially thought I would. And I would certainly recommend it to those who like family stories, romance and belief in God. I am very glad brought this home from the library. A entertaining and uplifting read.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour for a fair and honest review. I rated this 5 out of 5 Stars and a Recommended Read.

A fan of Charlotte Hubbard’s Amish romance novels, I haven’t had a chance to catch up on the books she writes as Naomi King. When I was given a chance to read and review Emma Blooms At Last, the newest installment in Ms. King’s One Big Family Series, I jumped at the chance. While this is the second book in a series, which is also tied to another series, I was able to read and enjoy it on its own. Filled with colorful and well developed characters, good dialogue and plenty of emotional angst, Ms. King reminds us that we all “bloom” at the right time.

Thinking she’s always “the bridesmaid and never the bride”, Emma Graber is helping prepare the reception hall and dinner for best friend Abby Lambright, who just happens to be marrying James, Emma’s older brother. A shy and somewhat soft spoken woman, Emma had hoped to marry Matt Lambright, who married someone else. While afraid of becoming a “maidel”, or spinster, she’s sure she doesn’t want to get involved with Jerome Lambright, a man her parents like but who seems to have a problem making up his mind when it comes to marriage. He’s got two broken engagements and she doesn’t want to risk becoming a third.

A young man whose mule breeding business is becoming successful, Jerome Lambright is drawn to shy and quiet Emma Graber, even though she doesn’t encourage his attentions. Determined to help to get her “out of her shell”, Jerome will do whatever it takes to get Emma to go out with him on a date – even including her parents and his family in his attempts. A fun loving guy, there is more to Jerome than meets the eye and he’s determined to get Emma to give him a chance.

Ms. King does a great job developing both Emma and Jerome’s characters throughout their story. While Emma is quiet and somewhat withdrawn, she’s also prickly like a cactus and a little too worried about what others might think. While Jerome is fun loving, he’s also a bit of a show off and doesn’t realize that his “flashy” type nature is part of what pushes Emma away. When tragedy strikes Emma’s family, right after James and Abby’s wedding, Jerome and his extended family help Emma realize she needs to let others in and become more of a participant in her own life. The romance between Emma and Jerome is sweet, tender and well-paced. I really enjoy how Ms. King’s characters get to know one another before they make any kind of real commitment – they realize love and marriage are forever in their community and they are careful about their choices.

The secondary characters, mostly members of the local Amish community, are all well developed and I especially enjoyed getting to know Amanda and Wyman Brubaker, the primary characters from Amanda Weds A Good Man, the previous book in this series. We get to catch up with them as their newly joined family (both were previously widowed) continues to join and face a new problem. It’s also nice to see the family relationships in the community, Amanda is Jerome’s aunt and Abby is now Emma’s best friend and sister-in-law. We also get to see how the community rallies around each other doing what’s best for everyone and helping each other out when someone gets in a bind.

Will Emma give Jerome a chance to win her heart? Will Amanda and Wyman be able to solve the new problem trying to damage their family? And will everyone bloom where and when they are supposed to? You’ll have to read Emma Blooms at Last to find out. I loved it and can’t wait to read more about Cedar Creek and its inhabitants.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved my visit back in Cedar Creek, and my time spent with old friends. We are up-dated on everyone here, and some of the focus on this book is Emma Graber, as we also prepare for the wedding of her brother James and Abby Lambright. We get to spend time with Amanda and Wyman Brubaker and her nephew Jerome and their blended family.
What a sweet time here becoming fully absorbed in the Amish culture, and even take a sleigh ride, such fun. Not everything is rosy, but love how these folks face adversity, and let their faith and prayer lead them in their decisions.
Emma does have a rough time during this story, and the Community tries to rally around her, she does seem interested in Jerome, but he has already had two broken engagements. What could be the problem, and does she wants to be number three?
We end up snowbound at the Brubaker’s with Emma and her Dad, and then some surprise visitors appear, wonder how they got there? Some excitement is about to happen in Emma’s life, and she appears to have developed some backbone.
Don’t miss this sweet read, and if you haven’t read the other books don’t let that keep you from enjoying this one, it can stand alone, but don’t deny yourself the great pleasure of reading the first book in this series, Amanda Weds A Good Man.
Enjoy!
I received this book through Goddess Fish Promotions, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Andrea Guy · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, let me say I love Amish fiction and Amish romance even more. This is the second book in the One Big Happy Family series. It is part of a series, but not to worry, this book can be read as a stand alone novel.

I have to say that Naomi is now one of my favorite writers in this genre. She brings the many characters to life in such a way that you feel you are watching through the window.

Its a novel of family, big family, and the hardships they face as well as their faith. Amanda and Wyatt face some financial hardships, while Emma's family are dealing with a heartbreaking loss, while she is discovering love for the first time.

I was really drawn to the characters, all of them! I especially loved Emma's father Merle. He was a sweetie and he made me think of my own father quite a bit.

Jerome was lovable too and his courtship with Emma was sweet and heartwarming. (And not at all easy)

Through the two families, you see growth through change. Jerome and Emma brought out good things in each other and Amanda and Wyatt's family proved that a family that can work together can pull through just about anything.

This is the type of book that you curl up with on a lazy afternoon and you don't move until the last page is turned.

[melissalynnmckim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the series sorry there isn't going to be more. I loved reading about these characters! Emma and Abby was my favorite and happy it turned out the way it did though!

[Cheryl Malandrinos · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Amish fiction is a favorite of yours, then Naomi King is an author you need to read.

In Emma Blooms at Last, the second book of King's One Big Happy Family series, Amanda and Wyman Brubaker are thrilled that their blended family is bonding together. But when construction on Wyman's grain elevator is delayed causing the cost of the project to rise, Amanda's rallying of the children to work and help with the family's finances comes into conflict with Wyman's sense of responsibility as the provider.

Meanwhile, Amanda's nephew Jerome has been sweet on Emma Graber for a long while. While he wishes to get to know shy, quiet Emma better, she isn't sure how to trust fun-loving, never-serious Jerome. As they struggle to understand each other, the Brubakers face a challenge that allows them all to discover what it means to fight the Amish way.

I have not read a book by Naomi King in so long, I truly forgot how much I loved them. Her characters are real. You understand and sympathize with their plights. You want them to succeed. The reader can meet the Brubakers in the first book of this series if they want to start from the beginning, but it is not necessary. Emma Blooms at Last is a total stand-alone novel.

In this heartwarming story, you have two plots running: the Brubakers dealing with a financial crisis and Emma unsure of Jerome's intentions and how they could ever be a couple. Since all of King's books create that sense of community so often found in Amish fiction, these two stories blend nicely. You see family member roles evolving as challenges present themselves.

What's truly nice to see in this story is Emma's transformation. She learns things about herself and her abilities along the way to discovering her feelings for Jerome. So, Emma Blooms at Last is not only about the romance between Emma and Jerome. It is a story of woman taking a leap of faith that she can use her God-given talents to help her community and that the man God has brought into her life is right for her.

Emma Blooms at Last is a touching story that fans of Amish fiction will enjoy from beginning to end. I hope we see more from King soon.

[Margaret Retsema · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book while camping near an Amish community. When in Rome, and all that. I thought it would be hokey or cheesy, especially as a non-religious person (among other sinful vices) But let me tell YOU. The drama! The wistfulness! I was suddenly totally invested in meek little Emma who’s practically never looked at a boy so much as talked to one, and I laughed but still enjoyed her description of Jerome, the “flashy mule farmer” (??? Brand New Sentence!). Anyway, once you lean in, it’s a great book.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book continues the story of Amanda and Wyman and their family. Trying to get the family elevator business built with lots of serious set backs and keep the family fed. Amanda’s brother wants to court Emma but she is so in her shell that he is having a hard time.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book - great story and characters

[Ronda Poindexter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book

All the books in this series are great. I love Naomi King/ Charlotte Hubbard. I love all her books. Great writing.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

(full review of this title on the 'Home at Cedar Creek' version: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good to read a nice, clean Christian book. Great story, wish I had started with book # 1. Do plan to continue the series.

[Deb Lester · Rating 4 out of 5]

Naomi King takes readers back to Cedar Creek in the second book in the One Big Happy Family series, Emma Blooms at Last. Readers who have followed the Cedar Creek and One Big Happy Family series will be thrilled with this latest addition. This book not only does it tell the story of Emma, but it continues Amanda's story from the first book and incorporates other characters from the Cedar Creek series. It's the kind of book that wraps everything up in a neat little package that will leave readers a little sad that it's ending but very satisfied with the outcome.

What I liked:

Naomi King knows how to write about the Amish people and their faith. Often Amish books are very predictable because they have to follow a certain kind of format due to the faith. There are no steamy scenes or many of the usual problems and conflicts found in regular contemporary fiction. It's a whole different world and King excels at bringing it to life. She takes a story that may be too simple to be much fun reading and gives it a spin that makes it hard to put down. Readers looking for a good clean romance will love her work as well. King proves that the simple life doesn't have to be boring.

Emma has always been a bit of a tough character in the series. After reading this book I now understand that most of the awkward air she gave off in the other books was mostly due to shyness. She is painfully shy and that means she is very hard to read by the other people around her. Especially, Jerome. He really likes her but she confuses him a lot of the time. I thought that Emma gained a lot of firmness and strength in this book. She took her desire to help people and did something about it in this book and that was nice to see. I also liked the whole idea that she was "always a bridesmaid, but never a bride." That was a nice touch that added to the enjoyment of her relationship with Jerome.

I liked Jerome a lot. He was confident in himself and his faith. Even though he had, had some rough patches, he was happy with the simple Amish life in this book. He was helpful and even romantic. I loved the way he went about making sure he could spend time with Emma and he was never deterred by her standoffish attitude. He was able to see beyond her shyness and understand it. He made a very good hero for this book. Since this was his third try at a good relationship it was a good thing the third time was the charm.

One of the things I liked about this book beyond Emma and Jerome's relationship was the fact that King tied up Amanda's story line. I loved the big happy family and how they have started to mesh and get to know each other better. This book basically continues their story and adds so much to the overall arc of the entire book. A blended Amish family wasn't something I was expecting with the first book, but I really enjoyed the concept and was happy to learn more about them in this one.

Bottom Line:

If you like Amish Fiction you really can't go wrong with a book from Naomi King. She has a knack for writing about the Amish that allows the reader to see beyond the rigors of their faith and the simplicity of their lifestyle, so that they can see them as individuals and families, as just normal people and I liked that very much here. Emma was a good heroine and Jerome held up as the hero. A good heartwarming novel.

[Tara Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Blooms at Last by Naomi King, book 2 in the One Big Happy Family series, is such a lovely book. And lovely is not a word I generally use. But there's not many better ones to pick from.
I love these novels. Reading about Emma and Abby and Wyman and James and Jerome and Amanda and ALL of the Cedar Creek gang... it always makes me wish I was a part of it.

We get to visit Amanda and Wyman again, a little bit of time after they've been married now. They're settled in and pretty well adjusted to their new lives together. Except... Wyman is having trouble with the contractor he's hired to build his new grain elevator. This new contractor does NOT have the work ethic (or the morals and values) of his predecessors, and it's costing Wyman more than expected to get the job done. The more money Wyman pays, though, the less his family has to make it through the winter.

Love is definitely in the air. Abby and James are getting married and couldn't possibly be more caught up in each other. Marrying James, however, means that Abby has to quit work. And without Abby, Sam is finding the Christmas season a bit hard to handle at the store.

Emma is busy lamenting the loss of the man she thought she was made for (he married Rosemary Yutzy from Rosemary Opens Her Heart). Too busy at first to really be interested in the extremely obvious eyeballs that Jerome keeps making at her. But he is not easily deterred. And soon, Emma can't remember why she tried so hard to ignore him.

As always, I read these books and they make me want to be a better version of myself. I'm not sure how to explain that so it makes sense, so I won't try.

I love how, even though these books could work as stand-alones and it's technically a separate series from Home at Cedar Creek, all the characters are familiar. They're like friends and family come home again after a short time away. It's like the stories suck you in and sit you down in the living room of one of these families with a nice warm, hand quilted blanket and make you comfortable.

They give you a peek in to the Amish community and lifestyle in a way thats light and inviting and the romance isn't overbearing like it is in a lot of novels. Although there were some parts where I wanted to shake Emma and just yell at her to stop being so stubborn.

You really get to see how much everyone cares about everyone else. And how willing they are to change their entire lives around to accommodate and to help. They make it a point to find what someone is good at and then they help them to accomplish all that they can in that particular field or with that particular craft.

As a matter of fact, after reading this book I picked my crochet hook back up and gave crocheting hats another go. I generally stick to loom knitting, but you can only do so much with that. I'm excited about making my hats and scarves and everything again. Because there's so many new ways to do it that I NEVER would have ever tried had it not been for reading this story.

I can not say enough wonderful things about this series and all of the others by Naomi King. PLEASE do yourself a favor and read Emma Blooms at Last. I promise you won't be sorry that you did.

[Wulfwyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading Emma Blooms At Last. It is part of the 'One Big Happy Family' series. I believe it is better to read them in order, so you don't get lost in who is who, but also because story lines get carried over. I love the fact that the previous stories are woven into the new ones. I love being able to visit with old friends and catch up with them while reading the new chapter. I think it is the way the author leaves no one behind that makes this series so special to me. In this book we get the story of Emma. Emma is living at home taking care of her parents. She had been in love but the man married someone else. Now she feels there is no one for her and, due to her hurt at being rejected, fights the prospect of someone else. I think that is a reality for many. You get so caught up in the love you thought was yours that you can't see the love being offered to you. While reading Emma, (and really the other books in this series), I felt like I was there, visiting family. I love when an author can draw you into the story so that you feel a part of it. The story has plenty of emotional moments, some happy and some sad with some where you want to shake someone in frustration. Just like real life. I think what I took from this book is sometimes you need to let go of a dream that isn't working for you so you can embrace your reality. We all need that push at some point. We get so stuck on what we think our life should be that we don't see the opportunities for a new dream, a realistic one. We carry hurts with us and project them unto those who have not hurt us. The fear we hold distorts the reality offered. I really love the way Naomi King brings that message to us in Emma. Another thing I love about this story is that the characters are flawed and not just Emma. Jerome has broken engagements and hasn't committed to the church. Hmm commitment issues for him? I can certainly see why Emma would think twice before trusting him. He may be a good man but he has his issues too. Which is the point...don't we all have issues? It doesn't make us good or bad only human. I think when we look for the "perfect" mate we get in trouble. Emma brings home the message that a perfect mate isn't perfect. As flawed as Jerome and Emma are together they make the perfect couple. Sigh. Isn't that what we all want?

I would highly recommend This book and series, (as well as any written by Charlotte Hubbard/Naomi King), for anyone interested in the Amish lifestyle and/or clean romance. These are books you can trust to make your heart flutter without the pressure to add sex to every date. I love the way the author writes in the sexual feelings we all have but leaves out the falling into bed as soon as I know your name. It is refreshing to know we can have the feelings and longings and not die if we decide not to have sex on the first date. We can say no to ourselves and others without dying. It is a worthy message for many young women who get caught up in the pressures of sex with no commitment. There may be no commitment but there is always a consequence.

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. Thoughts and opinions of the book are my honest feelings of what I read.

[KyBunnies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted at Bunny's Review



I have lived around an Amish community all my life. However, just because I live around them does not mean I know everything about them. Yes we associate they are so helpful and it is wonderful knowing I have them as neighbors. When I find books about Amish I usually read them because the author will provide a different look at their community. This book was not any different. I started this book and ending up staying up almost all night finishing. I just could not stop.

When an author shows that the Amish my live their life different they have feelings and emotions similar to us ‘English’. I personally loved everything about this book. From the beginning to the end, the author shows that just because someone lives a simple life-style does not mean they are different than others.

Emma is not an insecure person but she is shy. She had her heart set on marrying someone else but sadly he was not interested in her. Now she is wondering if she will be an old maid without a beau. The one man who is interested in her scares her with his confidence.

I easily connected with Emma during this amazing story. This was the second book in the series but thankfully the author wrote the book so the first is not a require read.

I highly recommend this book to any who enjoy a clean romance about Amish. This story would be perfect for a teenager. Now I am off to get the first book in this series.

The bunnies and I give this book carrots.



I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. All views are my own and do not reflect those of the author, my clients or tour companies I work with. This is not a paid review. To form your own opinion please support the author and acquire your own legal copy of the book.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Blooms at Last pulled me right into the heart of a big family, allowing me to reconnect with characters from a previous series. It was like catching up with old friends. While there are several secondary stories going on the heart of the book revolves around Emma, who has always taken care of her parents, or at least that is her excuse for guarding herself. Things are really about to change though, beginning with the marriage of her brother James to Abby Lambright, and the plan that Abby has to open her shop in Emma's parents home allowing Emma some free time,hinting that perhaps Emma will now make time for Jerome Lambright. It seems after all that everyone is trying to pair them together, and while Emma notices him, she is a bit hesitant because he isn't a member of the church yet, and he also has two broken engagements. Will Emma ever open her heart and allow Jerome in?

While this book is the second in the One Big Happy Family series it actually connects with the series Home At Cedar Creek. It was so nice to catch up with the characters from the former series and see how their lives were going. Emma was a character that really was letting life pass her by. It was so nice to see how the relationship that developed also allowed her to grow and change as well. I really do feel like I become part of a big happy Amish family whenever I read a book by Naomi King because she always draws me right into the midst, bringing the day to day living to life allowing me to experience the extraordinary days of the characters lives. While this book can be read as a stand alone work, anyone who enjoys Amish fiction that provides faith, romance and family will want to read the Home At Cedar Creek series along with the One Big Happy Family series! This book makes a wonderful holiday read because it wraps up right at Christmastime!

[DJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Blooms At Last… is the best sequel so far!

My goodness! There is so much going on in the community; I just know you’re going to love this book as much as I do!

Let’s see what I can say—without giving away any secrets.

Amanda and Wyman are happily married and settled in Amanda’s previous home, while Wyman is making plans to expand his business and add a grain elevator close to home. There’s lots going on with this family—so be sure to catch up on all their news.

It’s finally time for Abby and James to finally take their vows—and everyone is excited and happy for them… but Emma is feeling left out. After all, she and Abby have been friends forever, and now everything’s changing. While Jerome is trying to court Emma, will she find the courage to take the next step with him, or will all the rumors she’s heard about him ruin any future they might have had?

Wow! I certainly do get caught up in the story, don’t I? The characters are so real to me; it’s difficult to remember that it’s not real. (And I really want it to be real… so I can visit their community and meet Abby, James, Amanda, Wyman, Emma and the others).

But no; it’s not real.

Don’t you just LOVE getting lost in a story! I certainly do!

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting title . . . it is listed as the last book for 2 of Naomi King's series: 'Home at Cedar Creek' and 'One Big, Happy Family'. As such, for those who are reading the Cedar Creek series, you would probably be well served to go ahead and find 'Amanda Weds a Good Man' to read before this one. And, for those who started out with Amanda's story, you might appreciate some back story on the Cedar Creek contingent, especially with Abby and James' story, which begins with 'Abby Finds Her Calling'.
Now, to the actual book. Overall, I enjoyed it, though the mischief-maker that was causing trouble for the Brubaker clan was NOT who I'd expected! I liked that we were able to see more of Abby and James, as well as Amanda and Wyman, in addition to Emma and Jerome.
I enjoyed seeing how Emma learned that she was worthwhile, just as she was, and that Jerome could be trusted to know what (and who!) he wanted. I liked how Jerome was able to pinpoint the fact that he felt better about *himself* when he was with Emma as well. Though the book wasn't super strong with the faith element, I did appreciate the scene with Wyman and Amanda's family on Christmas day as they talked about the coming of the Christ-child.

[Barb · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Emma Blooms at Last” by Naomi King is a novel about the Amish community at Cedar Creek. Emma Graber, always a bridesmaid never a bride, is a young Amish woman with a very prickly attitude. She has spent her life caring for her parents and being a good, helpful friend and sister. She is a bridesmaid (again) for her best friend Abby, who is marrying her brother James.

Jerome Lambright lives with his Aunt Amanda and her new husband Wyman, along with their blended family. Jerome has had two failed engagements, but is ready to settle down. He has set his eye on Emma, but she is so skittish that he despairs of ever courting her.

During a series of mishaps, family deaths, financial problems and more, Emma and Jerome come together more by their helping those in need. Can they each find a place in their hearts for the other? I liked reading this book because I love reading about a simpler life. The community spirit among the characters was heart-warming.

I was sent a free print copy by NightOwlReviews.com in return for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own. You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-cS.

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many authors struggle to create one or two main characters that readers connect with, that readers care about. Naomi King has managed to create an entire cast of characters that you want to get to know better. You feel embarrassed for them, grieve for them, and laugh with them.

Emma is the character I connected with the most in this story.  She's an introvert who is very much focused on her family.  As the title would suggest, Emma's character grows tremendously throughout the story.  While Amanda and Wyman also have a major plot arc and point of view scenes, for me, the heart of this story is Emma.  Her journey, and Jerome's patient love, are what I loved the most about Emma Blooms At Last.

There are several point of view characters which can sometimes be distracting. I would have liked to see a bit more focus on Emma and Jerome, but that's just a personal preference. It's a wonderful story overall. For a heartwarming faith-filled story, pick this one up.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Ruth Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

For quite awhile, I have been a fan of this particular author, and I have a certain penchant for Amish fiction anyhow. Naomi King/Charlotte Hubbard writes the absolute best Amish fiction out there. I am always enchanted with her characters. Her women are so strong, and the men are so romantic and willing to listen to the women in their lives. Readers will always find a Christian message that is interwoven into the framework of the story. Her stories never preach at the reader. Honestly, I didn't think her writing could get any better. But with this book, she proved me wrong. In this delightful tale, the reader will find everything: romance, humor, family values, and even a surprise (there was a portion of the story that completely took me by surprise--hard to do, but she succeeded). I highly recommend that you read the first book in this series before reading this one. Actually, read all of this author's amazing books!

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

[Wall-to-wall books - wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Naomi's writing style. I believe this is my third book from her. I would say she is a relaxed writer. Its the kind of book that you just grab and settle in your favorite chair for the evening.

This is the second in the "One Big Happy Family" series. The first book being - "Amanda Weds a Good Man" which I loved (see the review - HERE). What I loved about the second book is that is doesn't just focus on another member of the family like so many series do, it introduced a new member of the family but also continued the story of Amanda. The book was just as much about her and her husband as it was Emma.
The character development was great, as usual. I loved all the people, even the men!

The reason for the 4 stars - Even though I really liked this book a lot, I didn't LOVE it like the first one. It felt a tiny bit slow in spots. But still a great book!

Thank you Berkley Books (Penguin) for sending me this book for my honest review!

[kerrycat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Emma and Jerome share the stage with Amanda and Wyman, as well as the other Cedar Creek families, as readers revisit engaging characters with difficulties of their own from the first title of the series. This active community makes for a busy story with plenty of excitement, romance and drama for many books to come.

Everyone seems to know that Emma had a crush on Matt, who married another girl, which makes her heartbreak seem never-ending. Shy and careful by nature, she is even more cautious now of sharing her heart with a man. Outgoing Jerome is intrigued by her indifference to him, and his growing affection for her brings out a maturity and devotion that just might win her trust and love. (NAL, Nov., 320 pp., $14.00)
Reviewed by:
Kerry Sutherland
- See more at: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-rev...

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will certainly miss Naomi Kings writing. I have come to understand this will be her last under this particular name. This for me was classic Amish fiction no "English" influence needed. Amish fiction is declining in what I would consider true good story-telling. I have come to rely on Naomi Kings writing and it will truly be missed! This story encompassed so many heartwarming people; and my favorite when there are multiple families involved. It was a gem and pure delight to read; and if you are overly fond of Amish fiction as I am and do not want to read about characters leaving the Amish then this book will be for you. This style is just not written very often; what a shame.

[Krissys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from NAL.

Emma Blooms At Last is a book I wasn't anticipating on getting since I don't typically read amish genre/ themed stories. Still Naomi writes well and creates characters that are decent and kind at heart with genuine affection for eachother. I like that no matter who is involved everyone is family and everyone matters. Emma Blooms At Last is a sweet story that's easy to follow even though its a part of a series and brings in a decent amount of heart warming sincerity to the readers.


There is still one thing I'm still left wondering- what the heck is a fried pie? (ha)

[Vera Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although the title of the book is Emma Blooms At Last, most of the book is centered around James and Abby's wedding and trips out on the weekends to collect their wedding gifts. Wedding are really big in the Amish life.

Emma has lived a very quiet life taking care of her family, so when Jerome begins to notice her she is very shy. Really not even given him a chance until after her Mother dies. Slowly but surely she comes to care for him.

Enjoy the Amish books. It good to see how the families work and help each other. Even the children helps out in the family.

Would recommend to others.

[CoffeeTimeRomance andMore · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cast of characters! The way these families all rally together and become one in the most simplest of ways to help and strengthen each other is just amazing. Each couple has their own problems, but also seem made for each other. I so enjoyed following Emma as she grows and learns who she is not just through others eyes, but through her own as well. This definitely was a great feel good read.
Matilda
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More

Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma is shy and timid and doesn't quite know what she wants, but she is taking care of her parents and watching her brother get married. Amanda and Wyman Brubaker are adjusting to moving to Amanda's farm after the tornado. Christmas is coming and so are some heartbreaking times.

[Janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this on the Kindle

As ever a very good read, the story had where not everything goes right also how not everyone is so good i love the way that happens especially if the person gets what they deserve

I enjoyed the book & the series & can really recommend this book