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The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #10
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill
The endearingly mischievous matchmaking grandparents Anna and Felty Helmuth have helped generations of their Wisconsin community – including many of their own grandchildren – find love over the course of USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Beckstrand’s beloved Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. Now, in this heartwarming prequel set in 1952, Anna and Felty’s own love story takes center stage as the young couple spends their first uncertain Christmas together.
Before irrepressible eighty-somethings Anna and Felty Helmuth became Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin’s most-beloved matchmakers, they were mismatched young lovers facing seemingly impossible obstacles…
She can’t cook, sew, sing, or clean. And no matter how hard young Anna Yoder tries, she’d much rather help people in trouble than be a well-behaved pretty face and properly perfect Amish maidel . So she instantly reaches out to her old schoolmate, Felty Helmuth, when their Amish town ostracizes him for his Korean War army service. He's still the only one who's ever understood Anna—and liked everything from her green Jello carrot salads to her love of books. And this holiday season, she can't help hoping that somehow she and Felty can find a way to be the perfect match…
Felty sensed he was called by Gotte to serve his country, though it went against his community’s peaceful ways. Troubled by his wartime experiences, he is resigned to being an outsider avoided by most eligible Amish girls. But lively, intelligent Anna has grown into a warm-hearted generous woman who accepts Felty for who he is. And in the face of family and community opposition, he and Anna will take a leap of faith to prove they are made for each other—and a lifetime of happiness.
Before irrepressible eighty-somethings Anna and Felty Helmuth became Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin’s most-beloved matchmakers, they were mismatched young lovers facing seemingly impossible obstacles…
She can’t cook, sew, sing, or clean. And no matter how hard young Anna Yoder tries, she’d much rather help people in trouble than be a well-behaved pretty face and properly perfect Amish maidel . So she instantly reaches out to her old schoolmate, Felty Helmuth, when their Amish town ostracizes him for his Korean War army service. He's still the only one who's ever understood Anna—and liked everything from her green Jello carrot salads to her love of books. And this holiday season, she can't help hoping that somehow she and Felty can find a way to be the perfect match…
Felty sensed he was called by Gotte to serve his country, though it went against his community’s peaceful ways. Troubled by his wartime experiences, he is resigned to being an outsider avoided by most eligible Amish girls. But lively, intelligent Anna has grown into a warm-hearted generous woman who accepts Felty for who he is. And in the face of family and community opposition, he and Anna will take a leap of faith to prove they are made for each other—and a lifetime of happiness.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 28, 2021
68 people are currently reading
984 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Beckstrand
60 books887 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 103 reviews
May 23, 2023
This is a sweet Amish Romance , and this is 10th book in The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill Series. This book is where the Grandparents (Anna and Felty) is telling their family their own love story. I loved how this book was written, and I think this book has characters that is really different from any other Amish Fiction books I have read. I also love how sweet the characters in this book. This is one of the cuteness Christmas love story I have read. I love how Anna brings out the best in people even when they are treating her badly. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zebra) or author (Jennifer Beckstrand) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
November 25, 2023
Oh my, what a sweet story. It never occurred to me to wonder how and when Felty and Anna met and fell in love. I'm certainly glad that Ms. Beckstrand took the time to tell us this heart-warming story. And just in time for the Christmas season too!
If you have been following this series as I have, then I really don't need to recap the story for you. But I will say that this story surprised me---a lot. It was an experience to see an Amish man go against his faith yet keep his faith-all for the good of his country and his God.
This quick, sweet read was funny and thought-provoking. All of Ms. Beckstrand's books are funny to a certain degree, but this book stands out. I've loved all of her books, but I'll have to say that this one is going to become one of my favorite 'comfort reads'.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Zebra, the author, and NetGalley. My thanks to all.
If you have been following this series as I have, then I really don't need to recap the story for you. But I will say that this story surprised me---a lot. It was an experience to see an Amish man go against his faith yet keep his faith-all for the good of his country and his God.
This quick, sweet read was funny and thought-provoking. All of Ms. Beckstrand's books are funny to a certain degree, but this book stands out. I've loved all of her books, but I'll have to say that this one is going to become one of my favorite 'comfort reads'.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Zebra, the author, and NetGalley. My thanks to all.
August 20, 2021
Oh how I love Anna and Felty from the many books in the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series! I was thrilled to read the story of their falling in love! It's not an easy beginning as they are both somewhat social outcasts in their community. They are both so genuine, and it was so satisfying to see their friendship rekindle and develop into romance as they support each other with the difficulties they are dealing with. I love how this author is so skilled at writing characters with vibrant personalities and memorable mannerisms. Highly recommend!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
May 24, 2021
I have read so many of the Huckleberry Hill series, and one of the best things about them has always been Anna and Felty! The whole series is centered on the fact that Anna is trying to set up all of her great-grandchildren and grandchildren. They are hilarious, head over heels for each other, and completely confident in who they are. That's why it was so interesting to see them insecure and unsure.
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is a prequel to the amazing Huckleberry series! It can be read as a stand alone, but I think it's more fun to read it after the other books. Anna Yoder knows exactly what it feels like to be an outcast. She can’t cook, sew, or be anything that a good Amish girl should be. So when Felty Helmuth is ostracized after returning home from the Vietnam War, she can’t stay away. But what happens when she falls for the young soldier she can’t have?
I totally adored this book! Throughout the Huckleberry Hill series, Felty and Anna always know exactly what to say. They still mess up, but they’re both secure in who God has made them. In this book, we’re able to see how hard they had to work to get there though. Anna isn’t a total outcast in the sense that people dislike her, but she’s simply forgotten. Mothers think she’s sweet, but not good enough for their sons, and she’s never fit in with the other girls. Despite all of that, Anna has never lost her sense of joy and compassion towards others. I loved how much she cared about everyone, even those who were cruel to her. And it was so cute how Felty helped build her confidence!
Felty knew that God had called him to fight in the war despite the Amish’s vows of nonviolence. Even though he knew it was the right thing to do, it was still hard to come home to hate. Luckily, the one person whose opinion he cared the most about stuck by him. He has had a crush on Anna for years, and now that he was back he loved her even more. I adored Felty! I loved how rooted he was in his decision to follow God anywhere. He had a lot of deep scars, physically, emotionally, and mentally from the war, but he refused to grow bitter or cold. He even tried his hardest to show kindness to the other Amish.
I think one of my favorite things about this book was the constant theme of the need to be kind. It would have been really easy for Felty and Anna to become angry, but they chose to love others and find joy in life. And that brings up another one of my favorite things, there was still that steady humor in all the Huckleberry books! I adored this clean, romance, and I would recommend it to anyone who liked the other Huckleberry books. Or even anyone who loves a good Amish romance!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is a prequel to the amazing Huckleberry series! It can be read as a stand alone, but I think it's more fun to read it after the other books. Anna Yoder knows exactly what it feels like to be an outcast. She can’t cook, sew, or be anything that a good Amish girl should be. So when Felty Helmuth is ostracized after returning home from the Vietnam War, she can’t stay away. But what happens when she falls for the young soldier she can’t have?
I totally adored this book! Throughout the Huckleberry Hill series, Felty and Anna always know exactly what to say. They still mess up, but they’re both secure in who God has made them. In this book, we’re able to see how hard they had to work to get there though. Anna isn’t a total outcast in the sense that people dislike her, but she’s simply forgotten. Mothers think she’s sweet, but not good enough for their sons, and she’s never fit in with the other girls. Despite all of that, Anna has never lost her sense of joy and compassion towards others. I loved how much she cared about everyone, even those who were cruel to her. And it was so cute how Felty helped build her confidence!
Felty knew that God had called him to fight in the war despite the Amish’s vows of nonviolence. Even though he knew it was the right thing to do, it was still hard to come home to hate. Luckily, the one person whose opinion he cared the most about stuck by him. He has had a crush on Anna for years, and now that he was back he loved her even more. I adored Felty! I loved how rooted he was in his decision to follow God anywhere. He had a lot of deep scars, physically, emotionally, and mentally from the war, but he refused to grow bitter or cold. He even tried his hardest to show kindness to the other Amish.
I think one of my favorite things about this book was the constant theme of the need to be kind. It would have been really easy for Felty and Anna to become angry, but they chose to love others and find joy in life. And that brings up another one of my favorite things, there was still that steady humor in all the Huckleberry books! I adored this clean, romance, and I would recommend it to anyone who liked the other Huckleberry books. Or even anyone who loves a good Amish romance!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
September 5, 2023
This installment in the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill is all about Anna and Felty, the matchmaking grandparents. It takes us back to the very beginning of their relationship. Felty has come back from serving in the army during the Korean War. He believed that God had called him to serve, an act that the Amish community harshly criticized. He is largely ostracized by his community, except for Anna. But when he saves an Amish child from being run over by a car, he becomes a hero in the eyes of all, especially the young women. The story then goes on, gradually explaining how the relationship between Anna and Felty grew to a lasting, loving one. There is much humor, of course, sprinkled in among the tender moments. No wonder the grandkids want to hear this story time and again! Jennifer Beckstrand has written another wonderful tale, peopled with the delightful characters readers have come to love. This entire series is highly recommended.
September 22, 2021
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand is Anna and Felty’s love story. It is Christmas Eve and Martha Sue Helmuth is visiting her grandparents. She is in a mood because Martha Sue just realized that she was sent to Bonduel in the hopes of her matchmaking grandparents finding her a husband. The last thing she wants is a husband and Martha Sue tells Anna quite loudly startling the rest of the relatives. The family realizes they have never heard Anna and Felty’s love story. There is plenty of time before dinner (which is not being cooked by Anna), so Felty begins the tale. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is a delightful story. It has wonderful characters that we have all come to love from The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. Anna and Felty are two people that are meant for each other. They are warm, caring, and genuine. You can tell how much they love each other and their family. Anna shows her love with her cooking (believe it or not) and with her knitting. I thought First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill was well-written with developed characters and a charming setting. The story is full of humor. I laughed often while reading this sweet story. I am so glad that Jennifer Beckstrand gave us Anna and Felty’s tale. I just loved the ending. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is an engaging story that you will not want to end. This is my favorite book in the series. It can be read as a standalone if you have not read the other nine novel sin The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill (you will be missing out if you do not read the whole series). There are some good life lessons in this story. My favorite lesson is that someone may be different from other people (dress differently, cook differently, have unusual interests), but we are all the same in God’s eyes. It is no reason to treat someone differently (make them feel that they are unworthy). This line stuck with me, “You need to treat everyone kindly whether you agree with their politics or not.” I hope the author gives us more Anna and Felty tales. I am glad, though, that I do not have to eat Anna’s cooking. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is a special story that will linger with you long after you finish it. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is an enchanting Amish Christmas tale with Knitted creations, jiggling Jell-o, cinnamon candy cookies, an adamant mother, bothersome brothers, troublesome traps, and a lasting love.
August 1, 2021
Finally at long last! My beloved couple gets their own story! Woo hoo!
My favorite book for sure and certain!
This book y'all! It cracked me up and had me laughing in more places than one!
Anna and Felty were made for each other as we know from the very beginning. What's not to love about them?!
I loved Anna's brothers too. I wished I had siblings.
This book will melt your heart in more ways than one. I saved this book because I wanted to savor in every way. It will be added to all of my other books on my keeper shelf.
The one person I didn't care much for was Anna's Mammi. Life's too short for all of that meanness that she sometimes displayed.
I did love the idea of Anna's big family. I felt like I was a part of it from the very beginning and I didn't want to leave.
I do hope there will be another one of just Anna and Felty.
I love them so much!
Here's a favorite quote
" There's no need to apologize. For anything.
I went to war. I carried a gun, and I used it. I did what I had to do to protect my fellow soldiers.
Some of the memories are very painful for me, but they are a part of who I am. They are a part of the story Gotte is writing of my life. I wouldn't erase those pages even if I could."
Wow! Such wisdom! Felty is telling it like it is! I love that! At least he's straight up honest with Anna.
What a man!
Ms. Beckstrand you've outdone yourself on this one! I'm very happy with how the story turned out.
You're novels always make me smile and laugh.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Highly recommend
My favorite book for sure and certain!
This book y'all! It cracked me up and had me laughing in more places than one!
Anna and Felty were made for each other as we know from the very beginning. What's not to love about them?!
I loved Anna's brothers too. I wished I had siblings.
This book will melt your heart in more ways than one. I saved this book because I wanted to savor in every way. It will be added to all of my other books on my keeper shelf.
The one person I didn't care much for was Anna's Mammi. Life's too short for all of that meanness that she sometimes displayed.
I did love the idea of Anna's big family. I felt like I was a part of it from the very beginning and I didn't want to leave.
I do hope there will be another one of just Anna and Felty.
I love them so much!
Here's a favorite quote
" There's no need to apologize. For anything.
I went to war. I carried a gun, and I used it. I did what I had to do to protect my fellow soldiers.
Some of the memories are very painful for me, but they are a part of who I am. They are a part of the story Gotte is writing of my life. I wouldn't erase those pages even if I could."
Wow! Such wisdom! Felty is telling it like it is! I love that! At least he's straight up honest with Anna.
What a man!
Ms. Beckstrand you've outdone yourself on this one! I'm very happy with how the story turned out.
You're novels always make me smile and laugh.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Highly recommend
December 28, 2021
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is an enjoyable story written by Jennifer Beckstrand. This story tells of the young love between Anna and Felt Helmuth. I enjoyed getting to know their personal stories and the struggles they faced. These two characters are very qirky but very humourous. The author has done a fantastic job developing these two characters. If you have read the other stories in this series this story will definitely give you great insight as to how they became known as the most beloved matchmakers on Huckleberry Hill. This story is filled with love and humor a great combination. The author has once again delivered a great story for her readers enjoyment. I highly recommend each book in this series
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
May 31, 2021
This is a sweet story that actually takes place more than fifty years ago. Grandparents Anna and Felty tell their children and grandchildren about their love story. Even though they are Amish, Felty has fought in the Korean Wars former friends and community ignore him, except Anna and her brother, Elmer. Felty has been in love with Anna for years already, though she doesn't know it. He begins to win her over, but she is troubled by the attention Felty begins to get from Rosie, the near perfect Amish girl of the community. Felty rescues a little boy, Marvin, who is Rosie's nephew, everybody then accepts him, and welcomes him into the community. Anna feels like he couldn't possibly love her when he has the attention of someone like Rosie. He of course, finally convinces her that she is the only girl for him. It's a great story I enjoyed reading very much!
August 2, 2021
I love this! I love this so much. The Huckleberry Hill Amish series has been one of my favorites. Jennifer Beckstrand's First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is a pure delight. She shares Anna and Felty's love story which is tender, a bit out of the ordinary and just right for the matchmaking duo of the present. Huckleberry Hill Matchmakers has given us such great stories told with love and humor. Felty is such a wonderful character who seeks God's will even into the hardest of service. Anna is such a pure hearted sweet girl who has low self esteem and truly needs to see herself though Felty's heart.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for this wonderful book. It is easy to give my opinion of this sweet story. I love it.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for this wonderful book. It is easy to give my opinion of this sweet story. I love it.
August 30, 2021
All the Huckleberry Hill Amish stories have been wonderful. I enjoy them so much. And this one tells how it all began! It's like going back in time to the beginnings of this lively and ambitious Amish couple's own young lives. I loved reading this enjoyable book. Felty has just returned after he served in the Korean War, despite the beliefs of his Amish community and religious teachings. Yet Anna sees him for the person he really is and perhaps this will be her perfect match even though there is definitely some opposition to deal with.
I think this was a book that needed to be written to love Felty and Anna even more! They are all about love!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author and NetGalley and was under no obligation to give a positive review.
I think this was a book that needed to be written to love Felty and Anna even more! They are all about love!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author and NetGalley and was under no obligation to give a positive review.
July 2, 2021
Martha Sue is sent to her Mammi's house for the summer so that her Mammi can help her find a husband. She doesn't want a husband so she goes to tell her Mammi that. The house is full of relatives and then they started asking about how Anna and Felty met.
It was a really cute story that made me laugh at times. Their antics and everything were kinda cute. This is my first visit to Huckleberry Hill and it won't be my last.
It was a really cute story that made me laugh at times. Their antics and everything were kinda cute. This is my first visit to Huckleberry Hill and it won't be my last.
December 31, 2021
Anytime I get to read a Jennifer Beckstrand story with those endearingly mischievous matchmaking grandparents Anna and Felty Helmuth is a treat! Always full of fun and laugh out loud situations. You can't go wrong with a visit to Huckleberry Hill! Yes! This is one of my very favorite authors and I highly recommend this and all of her stories. I received a copy through NetGalley, no review was required, my opinion and review are voluntary.
January 17, 2023
I was thrilled to read this prequel to the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, for if a story ever deserved telling, it was that of Anna and Felty. Jennifer Beckstrand did a great job bringing this young couple to life in a way that reflects the charming characteristics of the beloved octogenarian Anna and Felty. I didn't have to get acquainted with a new leading couple, for I knew them well already. Their story is a compelling one, a journey from being at odds with the Amish community to being loved and accepted for who they were. Felty's calling by God to join the military during the Korean War created an atmosphere of distrust upon his return, and Anna's creative cooking... Well, enough said. Their honesty, conviction and sincerity is refreshing - and I was especially touched by their desire to see no animal hurt by trapping. A welcome addition to a beloved series!
November 4, 2022
I read this book our of order, i haven''t read any other Huckleberry Hill books, I tend to do that with holiday books i just read them no matter where they are in the line up of the series. I enjoyed reading this amish christmas story/ well it was more a story of how Anna and Felty met one another and their love story. They overcame many obstacles to be together, the community looked down upon both of these individuals but they fell in love and was telling the story to their grandchildren and family The ending was really good as they celebrated Christmas all together.
May 27, 2021
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
3.5 stars.
“First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill”, by Jennifer Beckstrand (Kensington Books/Zebra), is a captivating story, with engaging, lovable characters.
I found the blossoming of romance between Felty and Anna an enchanting one, often making me smile. Felty’s infatuation with Anna is endearing and his blindness about her culinary skills so cute, sometimes even a bit silly, but the author does temper the sweetness with a light humor.
The smitten hero who finds the peculiar, very genuine heroine perfect is enchanting, but sometimes feels a bit forced. But I really loved the very gentle, kind and handsome hero with some troubled war memories.
I also liked that the main characters were and acted differently from the norm.
3.5 stars.
“First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill”, by Jennifer Beckstrand (Kensington Books/Zebra), is a captivating story, with engaging, lovable characters.
I found the blossoming of romance between Felty and Anna an enchanting one, often making me smile. Felty’s infatuation with Anna is endearing and his blindness about her culinary skills so cute, sometimes even a bit silly, but the author does temper the sweetness with a light humor.
The smitten hero who finds the peculiar, very genuine heroine perfect is enchanting, but sometimes feels a bit forced. But I really loved the very gentle, kind and handsome hero with some troubled war memories.
I also liked that the main characters were and acted differently from the norm.
July 29, 2021
If you’ve read any of the Huckleberry Hill series, you must read this one. I loved learning how Anna and Felty met and how their courtship progressed. I chuckled throughout the story, especially when author Jennifer Beckstrand wrote about Anna’s odd cooking combinations and why Felty was such a fan of them.
With Anna basically an Amish outcast, it was wonderful to see Felty accept her just the way she was and in fact adore her for it. Such a sweet romance. Tons of humor. And Christmas. What more can a reader want? I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
With Anna basically an Amish outcast, it was wonderful to see Felty accept her just the way she was and in fact adore her for it. Such a sweet romance. Tons of humor. And Christmas. What more can a reader want? I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
September 4, 2021
Young Anna and Felty are just as much fun as they are as grandparents! What a wonderful story. I only hope that doesn't mean there are no more matches to make on Huckleberry Hill.
October 20, 2021
Long time fan of Anna & Felty's shenanigans. In this tenth book they share their own meet-cute and all the eccentricities that we know and love form and develop as they share their story with family gathered at Christmas on Huckleberry Hill. They still have many family members to matchmake for so I hope this series continues.
Side blurb- hate the covers! Felty is supposed to be a foot taller than his Annie-Bananie and Anna's eyes are deep blue!
Side blurb- hate the covers! Felty is supposed to be a foot taller than his Annie-Bananie and Anna's eyes are deep blue!
October 17, 2021
Oh, how I LOVED this book...First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill!! Oh, how I have LOVED this series, set on Huckleberry Hill. I wish for it to never end and because I have the series, it will never end for me!!! I have read the books, in order, and I think it helps to follow the characters and relationships that are developing.
Here we have the story of how Anna and Felty Helmuth became a couple. They had to struggle with a beginning that was full of challenges and people that did not accept who they were as people or a couple!! Many of us have been there and have come through with minor scars.
Anna, who has never felt worthy of anyone, still carries that lack of confidence when it comes to relationships. She sees herself as "less than" and must find her way to become the woman God created her to be.....and it is a wonderful journey where she finds her way despite those who do not believe in her.
Felty has always loved Anna, but God called on Felty to go down a road that very few Amish men travel.....Felty joined the Army, during the Korean conflict and served for several years. That journey has it's own set of challenges and conflicts that result in Felty having to come to terms with the ravages of war. Felty is like the rudder of a boat.....always keep it steady and you will find your way.
Here you will find the reason why there is a "Huckleberry Hill" , how so many have come together as a result of Anna and Felty!!
Grab a warm cover, your favorite drink, light a fragrant candle and settle in to become a part of Huckleberry HIll and the journey of Anna and Felty.....You will not regret it and will yearn for more!!!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
Here we have the story of how Anna and Felty Helmuth became a couple. They had to struggle with a beginning that was full of challenges and people that did not accept who they were as people or a couple!! Many of us have been there and have come through with minor scars.
Anna, who has never felt worthy of anyone, still carries that lack of confidence when it comes to relationships. She sees herself as "less than" and must find her way to become the woman God created her to be.....and it is a wonderful journey where she finds her way despite those who do not believe in her.
Felty has always loved Anna, but God called on Felty to go down a road that very few Amish men travel.....Felty joined the Army, during the Korean conflict and served for several years. That journey has it's own set of challenges and conflicts that result in Felty having to come to terms with the ravages of war. Felty is like the rudder of a boat.....always keep it steady and you will find your way.
Here you will find the reason why there is a "Huckleberry Hill" , how so many have come together as a result of Anna and Felty!!
Grab a warm cover, your favorite drink, light a fragrant candle and settle in to become a part of Huckleberry HIll and the journey of Anna and Felty.....You will not regret it and will yearn for more!!!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 3, 2021
I loved the unique story line of First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill. I have never read a story before of an Amish man being called to serve in the war, and then once it was over return to his community.
I love Anna, she is sweet, endearing, and you really can't help but love her. She is a unique character, naive, which lends itself to many funny moments, that should be awkward but aren't. Unfortunately, her sweet, naive nature sets her up for heartache as well.
Felty is also a very unique character that you can't help but love. He has gone to war but still has an even-natured, happy disposition. He truly loves Anna like she is and will go to great lengths to prove it. His character adds a lot of depth and sweetness to the story.
This is a very sweet story with a great cast of characters. It was not at all like I imagined it would be, it was so much more. I appreciated that Anna loved Felty for who he was and he loved her for who she was. Neither one thought they were a great catch, but they did not have to change who they were for each other and they could be completely themselves. Such a great message right there.
I highly recommend this story to anyone who wants a great love story. Fans of Amish fiction, contemporary romance, historical fiction, or just a fan of a good story will enjoy this one!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love Anna, she is sweet, endearing, and you really can't help but love her. She is a unique character, naive, which lends itself to many funny moments, that should be awkward but aren't. Unfortunately, her sweet, naive nature sets her up for heartache as well.
Felty is also a very unique character that you can't help but love. He has gone to war but still has an even-natured, happy disposition. He truly loves Anna like she is and will go to great lengths to prove it. His character adds a lot of depth and sweetness to the story.
This is a very sweet story with a great cast of characters. It was not at all like I imagined it would be, it was so much more. I appreciated that Anna loved Felty for who he was and he loved her for who she was. Neither one thought they were a great catch, but they did not have to change who they were for each other and they could be completely themselves. Such a great message right there.
I highly recommend this story to anyone who wants a great love story. Fans of Amish fiction, contemporary romance, historical fiction, or just a fan of a good story will enjoy this one!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 26, 2021
I won this book in a contest and am so glad I did! I loved the cover, title and blurb and knew it would be a heart-warming story perfect to read over Christmas.
I don't give away spoilers in my reviews.
I love Amish stories and really love a well written love story- this book is both. The setting is Amish, the characters are kind/loving/have faults they struggle to overcome.
The main characters, Felty and Anna - start the book as grandparents. Anna wants to find a husband for her granddaughter. In the middle of celebrating Christmas, Felty ends up telling his family about how he and Anna met.
I loved hos brave Felty was - and how confident he was. I also loved Anna and could relate to her insecurities about love.
My favorite parts of this book were -
1. Rosie - how both Felty and Anna dealt with her. I think Rosie could easily have her own book.
2. Felty and Anna's membership in ASPCA. I loved their love and concern for animals.
and - 3. Anna's cooking. I don't want to give anything away but I have not laughed - or commiserated truth be told - this much while reading in a long time.
On a personal note, a friend who owned a restaurant is teaching me to bake and cook and I am giving her my copy of First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill this morning. I know she's going to love the love story and really love the parts about Anna's cooking.
I don't give away spoilers in my reviews.
I love Amish stories and really love a well written love story- this book is both. The setting is Amish, the characters are kind/loving/have faults they struggle to overcome.
The main characters, Felty and Anna - start the book as grandparents. Anna wants to find a husband for her granddaughter. In the middle of celebrating Christmas, Felty ends up telling his family about how he and Anna met.
I loved hos brave Felty was - and how confident he was. I also loved Anna and could relate to her insecurities about love.
My favorite parts of this book were -
1. Rosie - how both Felty and Anna dealt with her. I think Rosie could easily have her own book.
2. Felty and Anna's membership in ASPCA. I loved their love and concern for animals.
and - 3. Anna's cooking. I don't want to give anything away but I have not laughed - or commiserated truth be told - this much while reading in a long time.
On a personal note, a friend who owned a restaurant is teaching me to bake and cook and I am giving her my copy of First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill this morning. I know she's going to love the love story and really love the parts about Anna's cooking.
September 29, 2021
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is a sweet uplifting story by Jennifer Beckstrand. While there have been several books in the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series before this one, this is the first book I have read by Ms. Beckstrand. That was not a problem at all because this story goes back in time to 1952 when the now grandparents, Anna and Felty Helmuth first met.
I enjoyed the Prologue setting up the story of how they come about telling their story of meeting. In fact, I enjoyed the entire story. Not having read many novels taking place in Amish communities I wasn’t sure what to expect. Perhaps harsh rule followers but that was not the case with this wonderful book. It is filled with many kind, loving characters, especially the grandparents when they were younger and older. Also filled with younger brothers who fight like siblings can do at times.
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is going to be a sure fire favorite of series fans. It has certainly made a fan of me so now I am off to find more books about the Helmuth family.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
I enjoyed the Prologue setting up the story of how they come about telling their story of meeting. In fact, I enjoyed the entire story. Not having read many novels taking place in Amish communities I wasn’t sure what to expect. Perhaps harsh rule followers but that was not the case with this wonderful book. It is filled with many kind, loving characters, especially the grandparents when they were younger and older. Also filled with younger brothers who fight like siblings can do at times.
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is going to be a sure fire favorite of series fans. It has certainly made a fan of me so now I am off to find more books about the Helmuth family.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
June 18, 2021
Thank you Kensington Books and Jennifer Beckstrand for allowing me to read an ARC of First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill through NetGalley.
I love the Huckleberry Hill series and Jenifer has really tied it together with this addition to the series. I like many of you have loved Anna and Felty from the beginning of the series. And this book Jennifer shares with us their love story. A new grandchild has come to stay with them for a while so that they can help her find a husband that she really doesn’t want. In a family Christmas gathering their love story is shared with the rest of the family. And what a story it is.
Anna Yoder is far from the average Amish girl. She can’t cook, sew or sing, but for some reason, Felty Helmuth understands and loves her.
Felty has returned home from serving in the Korea War, and is pretty much ignored by the community except by Anna. With God’s help, they overcome objections from family and community to become one.
You will enjoy this 5-star addition to the Huckleberry Hill series. Pre-order today.
#FirstChristmasonHuckleberryHill #NetGalley
I love the Huckleberry Hill series and Jenifer has really tied it together with this addition to the series. I like many of you have loved Anna and Felty from the beginning of the series. And this book Jennifer shares with us their love story. A new grandchild has come to stay with them for a while so that they can help her find a husband that she really doesn’t want. In a family Christmas gathering their love story is shared with the rest of the family. And what a story it is.
Anna Yoder is far from the average Amish girl. She can’t cook, sew or sing, but for some reason, Felty Helmuth understands and loves her.
Felty has returned home from serving in the Korea War, and is pretty much ignored by the community except by Anna. With God’s help, they overcome objections from family and community to become one.
You will enjoy this 5-star addition to the Huckleberry Hill series. Pre-order today.
#FirstChristmasonHuckleberryHill #NetGalley
October 3, 2021
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand
This is the 10 book in the Huckleberry Hill Series and it’s the Story of Anna and Felty’s Helmuth love story.
I would recommend you read these books in order, if you want to get the most out of the series, as I read each book I keep thinking that each of the couples Anna and Felty helped to get together had a little of there own story within there story as well.Now that I read First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill I can see that indeed Anna and Felty’s story is not only wrapped up in all the couples story they helped to get together within there family and community but it is strong and the very foundation of their love just as the Huckleberry Hill is because they built it on their faith, love and God’s strong commitment to family and community. Jennifer Beckstrand has done an exceptional job with this book and I really believe you will throughly love this Christmas story as I did. This is not just a Christmas Story it’s a true Christmas gift.
This is the 10 book in the Huckleberry Hill Series and it’s the Story of Anna and Felty’s Helmuth love story.
I would recommend you read these books in order, if you want to get the most out of the series, as I read each book I keep thinking that each of the couples Anna and Felty helped to get together had a little of there own story within there story as well.Now that I read First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill I can see that indeed Anna and Felty’s story is not only wrapped up in all the couples story they helped to get together within there family and community but it is strong and the very foundation of their love just as the Huckleberry Hill is because they built it on their faith, love and God’s strong commitment to family and community. Jennifer Beckstrand has done an exceptional job with this book and I really believe you will throughly love this Christmas story as I did. This is not just a Christmas Story it’s a true Christmas gift.
October 16, 2021
Jennifer Beckstrand never fails to bring delight with her stories! And First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill is no exception. I laughed and cried and laughed some more throughout the book. The story is about Anna and Felty, how they met and fell in love, when Felty had just returned from the Korean War, something no Amish person did. He is ostracized because of his choice to serve. And Anna, always a bit odd because she doesn't cook or sew the way the other "Good Amish Girls" do, is his friend, regardless of his censure. As they grow closer, they must fight Anna's low opinion of herself and Felty's memories of war, as well as their church, which is not as supportive as they would like. But, as we all know if you have read any of Beckstrand's matchmaking series, Anna and Felty will find themselves drawn together and you will enjoy this delightful story of how it happens. I haven't even finished all of the matchmaker books but I still loved every minute of it! Thank you, yet again, for a delicious story!
#NetGalley #FirstChristmasonHuckleberryHIll #Bookstagram #all_the_pages
#NetGalley #FirstChristmasonHuckleberryHIll #Bookstagram #all_the_pages
January 2, 2022
The characters of Anna and Fealty were interesting. They seemed made for each other. Anna had the most awful combinations of ingredients to put in what she cooked and baked. She was a sweet and loveable person but I could never eat her food. Usually food combinations make my mouth water but these were so revolting sounding that it did the opposite. Fealty was practically made for her since he lost his sense of taste and smell and was eager to eat her weird food. I also found the idea of an Amish man serving during a war interesting since it is so rare. I was disappointed by how so many of the Amish in that community did not practice their faith and bullied Anna who was only truly guilty of being a lousy cook. The way treated her and Fealty was just awful. I would have liked to see more examples of Amish showing genuine compassion to others. All in all, though, it was a good story.
June 13, 2021
I've been a huge fan of the Huckleberry Hill series! They're all riotously funny as well as adorable. I'd always wondered about Anna and Felty's story and was thrilled to finally get to read it!
This book seems a bit darker than the rest in the series. It deals pretty frankly with war, faith, bullying, and what can happen when people and communities don't live up to their own standards. That said, the overall tone is very sweet and hopeful. The world is harsh and we'll never be able to spare everything and everyone from pain, but we do what we can, care for each other, and trust our faith. I love both Anna and Felty's simple, innate goodness and support of each other.
This is a lovely addition to the series and I'm sure readers will be thrilled to see how Anna & Felty came to be!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
This book seems a bit darker than the rest in the series. It deals pretty frankly with war, faith, bullying, and what can happen when people and communities don't live up to their own standards. That said, the overall tone is very sweet and hopeful. The world is harsh and we'll never be able to spare everything and everyone from pain, but we do what we can, care for each other, and trust our faith. I love both Anna and Felty's simple, innate goodness and support of each other.
This is a lovely addition to the series and I'm sure readers will be thrilled to see how Anna & Felty came to be!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
June 23, 2023
I have read every book in the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. I will admit I absolutely love Anna and Felty, they are my favorite older Amish couple to read about.
They are just the cutest couple ever! You just can't help but love them. Anna and Felty are older, in their eighties but spunky and have so much living to do as well.
They have lots of grandchildren and under the pretense of needing some work done around the house or some other nonsense they get their grandchildren to come visit them one by one and they match make for each of them. Everyone in their family knows how meddling they are but they don't do it in a bossy way and all of their family adores them. When their latest conquest, er grandchild comes to visit the matchmaking once again starts up.
But instead of the story revolving around the grandchild's story it takes us back in time to Anna and Felty's own courting story when they were much younger. Though Amish Felty feels led by God as a young man to enlist, he did some things while enlisted that he's not proud of and won't talk about it as an older man. Returning home after his time serving, the Amish don't welcome him home as they are a peaceful people and don't condone violence. When he becomes an instant hero after a near tragedy, he is heartily welcomed home. Anna and Felty had feeling for each other before he left but neither knew it at the time. I love that Felty loves Anna for who she is despite her being a terrible cook and seamstress. He has a chance to have the prettiest girl in their community and she's the bishop's daughter, but he just wants his Annie. This is what I call genuine love. At the end of the book, it does switch back to modern times where the grandparents are older. Such devotion to each other, this couple has it for sure. Loving this series. This is a long running series that I will continue to read as long as she keeps writing them.
Pub Date 28 Sep 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
They are just the cutest couple ever! You just can't help but love them. Anna and Felty are older, in their eighties but spunky and have so much living to do as well.
They have lots of grandchildren and under the pretense of needing some work done around the house or some other nonsense they get their grandchildren to come visit them one by one and they match make for each of them. Everyone in their family knows how meddling they are but they don't do it in a bossy way and all of their family adores them. When their latest conquest, er grandchild comes to visit the matchmaking once again starts up.
But instead of the story revolving around the grandchild's story it takes us back in time to Anna and Felty's own courting story when they were much younger. Though Amish Felty feels led by God as a young man to enlist, he did some things while enlisted that he's not proud of and won't talk about it as an older man. Returning home after his time serving, the Amish don't welcome him home as they are a peaceful people and don't condone violence. When he becomes an instant hero after a near tragedy, he is heartily welcomed home. Anna and Felty had feeling for each other before he left but neither knew it at the time. I love that Felty loves Anna for who she is despite her being a terrible cook and seamstress. He has a chance to have the prettiest girl in their community and she's the bishop's daughter, but he just wants his Annie. This is what I call genuine love. At the end of the book, it does switch back to modern times where the grandparents are older. Such devotion to each other, this couple has it for sure. Loving this series. This is a long running series that I will continue to read as long as she keeps writing them.
Pub Date 28 Sep 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
November 2, 2023
First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand
The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #10
284-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Holiday > Christmas; Christian Fiction > Amish Fiction; Romance > Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance > Amish Romance; Inspirational, Historical Fiction
Featuring: Grandparents, Matchmaking, Bonduel and Shawano, Wisconsin; Charm, Ohio; Octogenarians, Food, Family Drama, Prequel, Dual Timelines, 1952, War, Thanksgiving, Bullying, Teaser Without Chapter Preview - His Amish Sweetheart book 3 of The Petersheim Brothers series
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Songs for the soundtrack: "O Come All Ye Faithful," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "Silent Night," "Joy To The World"
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½🎄
My thoughts: 🔖Page 219 of 284 Ch. 14 - This isn't what I was expecting at all. I'm debating between going to bed or powering through. It's more dramatic and less comical than the last few books so I'm less motivated to read.
This story felt like 4 star read but by the epilogue, I was all in. This is the story of Anna's and Felty's courtship, with a tease of the storyline of the next book. I'm expecting this story to continue in Second Chances on Huckleberry Hill, as the Prologue and Epilogue serve as its setup. Speaking of teasers, most of the previous books have had teasers and book previews, but while this story has a Teaser in its contents just like book 9, instead of a first chapter it's just a blurb.
Recommend to others: Yes. This isn't the most exciting story but it was heartwarming.
Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill
1. Huckleberry Hill (2014)
2. Huckleberry Summer (2014)
3. Huckleberry Christmas (2014)
4. Huckleberry Spring (2015)
5. Huckleberry Harvest (2015)
6. Huckleberry Hearts (2015)
7. Return to Huckleberry Hill (2017)
8. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill (2017)
9. Home on Huckleberry Hill (2018)
10. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill (2021)
11. Second Chances on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
12. Happily Ever After on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #10
284-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Holiday > Christmas; Christian Fiction > Amish Fiction; Romance > Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance > Amish Romance; Inspirational, Historical Fiction
Featuring: Grandparents, Matchmaking, Bonduel and Shawano, Wisconsin; Charm, Ohio; Octogenarians, Food, Family Drama, Prequel, Dual Timelines, 1952, War, Thanksgiving, Bullying, Teaser Without Chapter Preview - His Amish Sweetheart book 3 of The Petersheim Brothers series
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Songs for the soundtrack: "O Come All Ye Faithful," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "Silent Night," "Joy To The World"
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½🎄
My thoughts: 🔖Page 219 of 284 Ch. 14 - This isn't what I was expecting at all. I'm debating between going to bed or powering through. It's more dramatic and less comical than the last few books so I'm less motivated to read.
This story felt like 4 star read but by the epilogue, I was all in. This is the story of Anna's and Felty's courtship, with a tease of the storyline of the next book. I'm expecting this story to continue in Second Chances on Huckleberry Hill, as the Prologue and Epilogue serve as its setup. Speaking of teasers, most of the previous books have had teasers and book previews, but while this story has a Teaser in its contents just like book 9, instead of a first chapter it's just a blurb.
Recommend to others: Yes. This isn't the most exciting story but it was heartwarming.
Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill
1. Huckleberry Hill (2014)
2. Huckleberry Summer (2014)
3. Huckleberry Christmas (2014)
4. Huckleberry Spring (2015)
5. Huckleberry Harvest (2015)
6. Huckleberry Hearts (2015)
7. Return to Huckleberry Hill (2017)
8. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill (2017)
9. Home on Huckleberry Hill (2018)
10. First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill (2021)
11. Second Chances on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
12. Happily Ever After on Huckleberry Hill (2023)
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