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Berlin Bookmobile #3
A Christmas Courtship
This charming and gentle Christmas love story in the “swoon-worthy” ( Woman’s World ) Berlin Bookmobile series follows a librarian determined to help an Amish bachelor woo his neighbor.
A solitary sort, forty-two-year-old Atle Petersheim spends his time hard at work in his wood shop. But as the days get longer, he realizes just how lonely he’s become. When his longtime crush, Sadie Mast, a widow and mother of three, asks him to help her build a room in their barn for her son, Atle can’t say no. Eager to pursue Sadie at last, he turns to bookmobile librarian Sarah Anne Miller for courting advice. More than happy to help, Sarah Anne decides the best way to learn about love is through books—romance novels to be precise.
Between completing holiday orders for her flourishing food business, helping Cale navigate a dramatic new relationship with his boss’s daughter, and coming to terms with the trauma her late husband had inflicted upon her and her children—not to mention Atle showing up at her door with flowers—Sadie is in over her head. Though Atle’s efforts are initially clumsy and his declarations a bit awkward, Sadie can’t help but be charmed by her patient and kind neighbor. But is she ready for love?
Another delightful romance about the “transformative powers of love, hope, and faith” ( Publishers Weekly ), A Christmas Courtship is the perfect holiday read.
A solitary sort, forty-two-year-old Atle Petersheim spends his time hard at work in his wood shop. But as the days get longer, he realizes just how lonely he’s become. When his longtime crush, Sadie Mast, a widow and mother of three, asks him to help her build a room in their barn for her son, Atle can’t say no. Eager to pursue Sadie at last, he turns to bookmobile librarian Sarah Anne Miller for courting advice. More than happy to help, Sarah Anne decides the best way to learn about love is through books—romance novels to be precise.
Between completing holiday orders for her flourishing food business, helping Cale navigate a dramatic new relationship with his boss’s daughter, and coming to terms with the trauma her late husband had inflicted upon her and her children—not to mention Atle showing up at her door with flowers—Sadie is in over her head. Though Atle’s efforts are initially clumsy and his declarations a bit awkward, Sadie can’t help but be charmed by her patient and kind neighbor. But is she ready for love?
Another delightful romance about the “transformative powers of love, hope, and faith” ( Publishers Weekly ), A Christmas Courtship is the perfect holiday read.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 19, 2021
101 people are currently reading
2361 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
127 books2,323 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
December 2, 2023
This is an Amish Clean Romance, and this is the third book in the Berlin Bookmobile series. This book is like the Amish Bromance Book Club without a book club. An Older Amish man wants to court a Widow, so he goes to the Bookmobile looking for a How to guide on courtship. He ended up with a romance book to help him figure out how to court. I found this book to be cute and sweet and funny. The Christmas parts was not really big until the end, and I found the Christmas parts to be very cute and funny. The characters where really great, and they felt real and very developed. Great book. I did feel the beginning was a little weird and it took me a little bit to get into the story. I have read the first two books in this book series before picking up this book, so that is not the reason it took me a minute to get into this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Gallery Books) or author (Shelley Shepard Gray) 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.
December 18, 2021
I love Sarah Anne and her bookmobile and the way she can find the perfect book for every patron, even when they think she's ferhoodled for such recommendations . That's the case with poor Atle Petersheim who at the ripe age of 42 desires to start courting but doesn't know how to go about it. He's looking for advice, well, a detailed road map more like and when he gets the gumption to ask Sarah Anne for a 'how to 'book he's in for a surprise. So funny! And sweet and endearing because Atle is the perfect match for widow Sadie Mast and her three children, she just doesn't know it yet.
There's also a secondary young love romance involving Sarah's oldest son and his boss's daughter, which goes about a smoothly as you'd expect. :-) And I love how Gray interweaves the two stories and brings them to a lovely Christmas-y conclusion.
There's also a secondary young love romance involving Sarah's oldest son and his boss's daughter, which goes about a smoothly as you'd expect. :-) And I love how Gray interweaves the two stories and brings them to a lovely Christmas-y conclusion.
June 20, 2022
This is such a charming book. This just may be my favorite of The Berlin Bookmobile series. It was such fun seeing the bookmobile librarian have the right book suggestion for each patron just when they needed it.
How delightful this book is, it has two courting couples in it. One a teenaged couple who has admired each other for quite some time and the other is a widowed woman and a man who really hasn't had time to court before. Each couple, just like all couples have their misunderstandings and problems but they don't give up on each other. There is love,compassion,forgiveness,understanding and strong faith here.
Taking place at Christmas time adds to the charm of the story . I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their likes and dislikes. The faith message woven in was reassuring and comforting.
I look forward to reading whatever the author has out next.
Pub Date 26 Oct 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
How delightful this book is, it has two courting couples in it. One a teenaged couple who has admired each other for quite some time and the other is a widowed woman and a man who really hasn't had time to court before. Each couple, just like all couples have their misunderstandings and problems but they don't give up on each other. There is love,compassion,forgiveness,understanding and strong faith here.
Taking place at Christmas time adds to the charm of the story . I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their likes and dislikes. The faith message woven in was reassuring and comforting.
I look forward to reading whatever the author has out next.
Pub Date 26 Oct 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
November 12, 2021
4.5 Stars
Atle, a forty-year-old bachelor, has admired Sadie Mast from afar for years, but she’d been off limits being married. Now a widower, mother of three, she asks Atle to build a room for her oldest son, Cale now that he’s older to give him so space and growing room, and Atle sees this as an opportunity to court Sadie if he can muster enough courage speak up and make his desires known.
Sadie feels bad that she’s had to rely on her teenage son, Cale, to help get the family by after the death of her husband, but now that she’s more steady she wants to make Cale’s Christmas gift extra special and give her son more room now that he’s getting older. Having the quiet and handsome Atle around is an unexpected joy.
There were two romances to love: Atle and Sadie and then Sadie’s son Cale and Hope, the daughter of his boss on the farm he works. Atle is quiet and shy, so he asks Sarah Anne, the librarian running the bookmobile for some self-help books on romance, but Sarah Anne thinks Atle might have more success reading a couple of her favorite romances for advice. The novel ending up more inspirational to Atle, because if the couple in the book could somehow find love through all their unnecessary drama, then he for sure should be able to! The fictional book couple was kind of a mess, lol.
I just adored A Christmas Courtship so much! So heartwarming and sweet! I also loved the Atle and Sadie’s relationship with her kids. Sadie’s past husband left some emotional scars they all had to deal with, and I thought both Sadie and Atle dealt with it beautifully. I think I’ve only read one story featuring the Amish, but the premise of finding romantic help through a romance book appealed to me. Also, with life so messy and complicated having a story set in community where a simpler life is embraced sounded nice. Now I’d like to go back and read the previous two romances.
A copy was kindly provided by Gallery Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Atle, a forty-year-old bachelor, has admired Sadie Mast from afar for years, but she’d been off limits being married. Now a widower, mother of three, she asks Atle to build a room for her oldest son, Cale now that he’s older to give him so space and growing room, and Atle sees this as an opportunity to court Sadie if he can muster enough courage speak up and make his desires known.
Sadie feels bad that she’s had to rely on her teenage son, Cale, to help get the family by after the death of her husband, but now that she’s more steady she wants to make Cale’s Christmas gift extra special and give her son more room now that he’s getting older. Having the quiet and handsome Atle around is an unexpected joy.
There were two romances to love: Atle and Sadie and then Sadie’s son Cale and Hope, the daughter of his boss on the farm he works. Atle is quiet and shy, so he asks Sarah Anne, the librarian running the bookmobile for some self-help books on romance, but Sarah Anne thinks Atle might have more success reading a couple of her favorite romances for advice. The novel ending up more inspirational to Atle, because if the couple in the book could somehow find love through all their unnecessary drama, then he for sure should be able to! The fictional book couple was kind of a mess, lol.
I just adored A Christmas Courtship so much! So heartwarming and sweet! I also loved the Atle and Sadie’s relationship with her kids. Sadie’s past husband left some emotional scars they all had to deal with, and I thought both Sadie and Atle dealt with it beautifully. I think I’ve only read one story featuring the Amish, but the premise of finding romantic help through a romance book appealed to me. Also, with life so messy and complicated having a story set in community where a simpler life is embraced sounded nice. Now I’d like to go back and read the previous two romances.
A copy was kindly provided by Gallery Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2021
A CHRISTMAS COURTSHIP is the third book in the Berlin Bookmobile Series by Shelley Shepard Gray. Atle is an Amish man who is trying to finally admit his feelings for his long time crush, Sadie Mast. Sadie is a widow with three children and requires Atle’s help building A bedroom for her oldest son, Cale. I have been reading Shelley’s books for years and A CHRISTMAS COURTSHIP is now one of my very favorites by her. I love this series and while you can read each book as a stand alone, take the time to read them all! They are wonderful and heart tugging. Cale is having his own problems and he really likes Hope but because of her bad decisions Cale winds up losing his job.
Shelley Shepard Gray sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with these two, with all their troubles and A CHRISTMAS COURTSHIP is exactly that! She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Shelley Shepard Gray book if you are a fan of the Christian fiction genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache someone can stand before they completely break down and fall apart. Atle needs to learn how to court a woman so he runs to the Book mobile and asks Sarah Anne for her help. She offers him two romance books to read and Atle practically runs out the door without touching the books. Amish men do not read romance books!
A CHRISTMAS COURTSHIP is a heart tugging story filled with patience, loneliness, heartbreak, and love that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once I started this heartwarming story, it was very hard to put down! I really prayed that Atle would be able to convince Sadie that she was ready to move forward with her feelings for him and that she deserved to be loved and cherished. Shelley Shepard Gray isn’t afraid to write about subjects out of the norm as far as the Christian Fiction genre goes. Oh, as a warning to the reader, keep the tissues handy and do not read the ending in a public place unless you don’t mind crying in front of strangers! I’m so excited to continue catching up on all of Shelley Shepard Gray’s previous books. Now I have to patiently wait for the next book in this wonderful series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gallery Books through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Shelley Shepard Gray sure knows how to make the reader feel as if they are right there at the kitchen table with these two, with all their troubles and A CHRISTMAS COURTSHIP is exactly that! She made me sad, then the next moment I was smiling and giggling out loud! You can never go wrong with a Shelley Shepard Gray book if you are a fan of the Christian fiction genre. All of her characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache someone can stand before they completely break down and fall apart. Atle needs to learn how to court a woman so he runs to the Book mobile and asks Sarah Anne for her help. She offers him two romance books to read and Atle practically runs out the door without touching the books. Amish men do not read romance books!
A CHRISTMAS COURTSHIP is a heart tugging story filled with patience, loneliness, heartbreak, and love that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once I started this heartwarming story, it was very hard to put down! I really prayed that Atle would be able to convince Sadie that she was ready to move forward with her feelings for him and that she deserved to be loved and cherished. Shelley Shepard Gray isn’t afraid to write about subjects out of the norm as far as the Christian Fiction genre goes. Oh, as a warning to the reader, keep the tissues handy and do not read the ending in a public place unless you don’t mind crying in front of strangers! I’m so excited to continue catching up on all of Shelley Shepard Gray’s previous books. Now I have to patiently wait for the next book in this wonderful series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gallery Books through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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October 6, 2021
We still search for Jesus even without the stars help. Prayer, faith, and a hope in a better future will certainly guide you thru the journey.
The series of Amish books is centered around Sarah Anne Miller now Canon 's bookmobile. Her life has intertwined with the Amish in these heart-warming series. This particular one brought hope in now a Covid world. (the writing is during Covid which the author briefly describes her own story and how this story is an inspiration.) Atle an Amish carpenter by trade as an opportunity to know widowed Sadie Mast and maybe win her heart. Atle has never married, never romanced but always admired Sadie from afar. He goes to the library to pick up a few books on romance. Sadie has hired Atle to put a bedroom in the barn for her 16 year old Cale. He has been rooming with his younger brother and his mother feels that having some space of his own might be helpful in healing his heart with the death of his father and coming of age. Sadie did not have good marriage and the affects on her three children have been difficult. They are trying to have start fresh and learn to forgive the husband/father of his abusive behavior.
With Atle helping Sadie with the room, he also becomes helpful in other areas that have tested their faith. Atle is not man that Sadie's husband was but has turned into a gift that brings healing, hope and faith to the Mast family. Enjoyed getting to know the Mast family and how Atle gently and patiently helped them while God gave him the desires of his own heart. A heartfelt romance.
A special thank you to Gallery Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
The series of Amish books is centered around Sarah Anne Miller now Canon 's bookmobile. Her life has intertwined with the Amish in these heart-warming series. This particular one brought hope in now a Covid world. (the writing is during Covid which the author briefly describes her own story and how this story is an inspiration.) Atle an Amish carpenter by trade as an opportunity to know widowed Sadie Mast and maybe win her heart. Atle has never married, never romanced but always admired Sadie from afar. He goes to the library to pick up a few books on romance. Sadie has hired Atle to put a bedroom in the barn for her 16 year old Cale. He has been rooming with his younger brother and his mother feels that having some space of his own might be helpful in healing his heart with the death of his father and coming of age. Sadie did not have good marriage and the affects on her three children have been difficult. They are trying to have start fresh and learn to forgive the husband/father of his abusive behavior.
With Atle helping Sadie with the room, he also becomes helpful in other areas that have tested their faith. Atle is not man that Sadie's husband was but has turned into a gift that brings healing, hope and faith to the Mast family. Enjoyed getting to know the Mast family and how Atle gently and patiently helped them while God gave him the desires of his own heart. A heartfelt romance.
A special thank you to Gallery Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
October 11, 2021
Sarah Anne Miller Canon is a newlywed at sixty-two and enjoying her career as a bookmobile driver. Sarah Anne does more than dispense books in her compact vehicle. Atle Petersheim has admired Sadie Mast for a long time, but as a bachelor at forty-two, he has no idea how to court a woman. He asks Sarah Anne to find him a book that will help him with the task. Sarah Anne come sup with an unusual solution. Cale Mast is sixteen-year-old who works hard to help his widowed mother, Sadie. He would like to court Hope Overholt, his boss’s daughter, but Cale is unsure how to go about it. Cale also is pondering his future and the career that would be for him. A Christmas Courtship by Shelley Shepard Gray is a sweet heartwarming story. I enjoyed reading it very much. I had just finished reading a couple of lackluster books and needed a pick me up, A Christmas Courtship did the trick. A Christmas Courtship is the 3rd tale in The Berlin Bookmobile Series. It can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend the two previous books. I thought the book was well-written with engaging characters. The characters are realistic and developed. The book moved along at a good pace and was over much too quickly. There are some good life lessons about forgiveness and dealing with painful memories. The story does discuss domestic abuse. I like how the author handled this difficult subject. A Christmas Courtship is a story of faith, hope, and love. I love A Berlin Bookmobile Series and I hope there will be more adventures with Sarah Anne. A Christmas Courtship is a heartfelt, entertaining tale that made me smile and laugh.
September 23, 2021
Shelly Shepard Gray writes some of the most heart-warming Amish stories! Atle Petersheim finally gets the chance to court widowed Sadie Mast and I loved watching their romance blossom. I also liked watching the role Sarah Anne Miller, our bookmobile librarian, played in helping bring these two together. Sadie's three children added their own personality & charm to the story. I especially like watching 16-year-old Cale Mast try to figure out his role within the family, life, and his own courtship to long-time crush Hope Overholt.
Gray intertwined each of these lives in special ways and wrote a very charming Christmas themed novel. A bookmobile matchmaker plays central role in all three of these stories that I think readers will fall in love with! I would not hesitate to recommend A Christmas Courtship to anyone.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are my own. *
Gray intertwined each of these lives in special ways and wrote a very charming Christmas themed novel. A bookmobile matchmaker plays central role in all three of these stories that I think readers will fall in love with! I would not hesitate to recommend A Christmas Courtship to anyone.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are my own. *
December 19, 2021
This was such a fun romance with two couples finding love as Christmas approached. One courtship was between two teens who had long admired each other and the other courtship was between a man and woman who were in their middle years. This is the third book in the Berlin Bookmobile series, however, I had not read the earlier two books and I had no trouble enjoying this one.
Atle was such a wonderful hero in this novel. He started out a bit awkward and was extremely nervous around Sadie. He had never courted anyone, yet had admired Sadie for awhile. Sadie was a widow with three children and the backstory for her family was complicated. Her husband carried a lot of anger and she and her children suffered through years of abuse. I really appreciated that Atle was compassionate and caring about this fact in the way he approached the entire family.
Hope and Cale were the young couple and they had a trying situation to overcome in the story. I really liked this couple, too, and think that what they went through made their courting relationship stronger.
This story was a fun addition to my Christmas reading this season. I liked the way the author incorporated snippets from the romance book that Atle read as he learned how to court Sadie. It was very clever. The only thing I wished for at the end was a bit of an epilogue a year or so into the future. But I hope that maybe there will be more books in the series and I can see these characters again.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Atle was such a wonderful hero in this novel. He started out a bit awkward and was extremely nervous around Sadie. He had never courted anyone, yet had admired Sadie for awhile. Sadie was a widow with three children and the backstory for her family was complicated. Her husband carried a lot of anger and she and her children suffered through years of abuse. I really appreciated that Atle was compassionate and caring about this fact in the way he approached the entire family.
Hope and Cale were the young couple and they had a trying situation to overcome in the story. I really liked this couple, too, and think that what they went through made their courting relationship stronger.
This story was a fun addition to my Christmas reading this season. I liked the way the author incorporated snippets from the romance book that Atle read as he learned how to court Sadie. It was very clever. The only thing I wished for at the end was a bit of an epilogue a year or so into the future. But I hope that maybe there will be more books in the series and I can see these characters again.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 7, 2021
I enjoyed this novel but then again, I enjoy anything this author writes!
I particularly loved this series of second chances and family all rolled into one.
The way this author wrote made feel like I was a part of Sarah's family. I really miss the family feel since all mine is gone now..that's why I didn't want to put this story down.
Sarah has been my favorite character from the very beginning. She's such a sweetheart so I felt that she deserves a second chance. Her occupation is my favorite thing about her I'll be honest.
My 2nd favorite thing is that she's a very caring person and wants to help others. For that, I admired her very much!
What I didn't like was the subject of abuse. It can happen to anyone and anywhere. But I did like how the author referred it as past tense but even then it can and sometimes still affect the person. That's why I admired these characters.
Atle Petershiem is another character that I greatly admired. He's a wonderful man. He has a great personality. I loved how very supportive he was!
I didn't want the book to end because it offer such hope not only for the characters but for us readers too.
Thank you for another wonderful story and for getting me in the Christmas mood.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I particularly loved this series of second chances and family all rolled into one.
The way this author wrote made feel like I was a part of Sarah's family. I really miss the family feel since all mine is gone now..that's why I didn't want to put this story down.
Sarah has been my favorite character from the very beginning. She's such a sweetheart so I felt that she deserves a second chance. Her occupation is my favorite thing about her I'll be honest.
My 2nd favorite thing is that she's a very caring person and wants to help others. For that, I admired her very much!
What I didn't like was the subject of abuse. It can happen to anyone and anywhere. But I did like how the author referred it as past tense but even then it can and sometimes still affect the person. That's why I admired these characters.
Atle Petershiem is another character that I greatly admired. He's a wonderful man. He has a great personality. I loved how very supportive he was!
I didn't want the book to end because it offer such hope not only for the characters but for us readers too.
Thank you for another wonderful story and for getting me in the Christmas mood.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 19, 2021
Shelley Shepard Gray has outdone herself! I thoroughly enjoyed book 2 of the Berlin Bookmobile series but this book is now my favorite! We get to revisit bookmobile librarian Sarah Ann, catch up with some of her patrons that we've already met, and glimpse Sarah Ann with her new husband, Pete. A Christmas Courtship introduces us to Atle Petersheim, Sadie Mast, Sadie's three children, and fun pets Bonnie the mare and pygmy goat Gwen!
This book satisfies the desires of so many readers! There are wonderful characters, unforgettable romance, the emotions associated with the Christmas season, and many references to prayer, faith, and hope. A Christmas Courtship is a lovely, heartwarming book and I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish fiction and Christian romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Check out more of my thoughts here: https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
This book satisfies the desires of so many readers! There are wonderful characters, unforgettable romance, the emotions associated with the Christmas season, and many references to prayer, faith, and hope. A Christmas Courtship is a lovely, heartwarming book and I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish fiction and Christian romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Check out more of my thoughts here: https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
October 21, 2021
As usual an amazing book! Like a warm hug. The coziest of relaxing, cozy romances!
December 7, 2021
“A Christmas Courtship” is such a delightful story. A wonderful addition to Christmas as well as Amish reads. It is the third of Shelley Shepard GrayShelley Shepard Gray’s Berlin Bookmobile series. The first two books in the series are on my Want-to-Read list. I found this book enjoyable as a standalone.
The print version has 317 pages which the author uses wisely to build the story so that it remains interesting throughout. The book does not drag; the book does not rush. The story just weaves its way and feels believable.
Such great characters in this list which should help set the story:
There is Sarah Anne Miller Canon (Englisher), who drives the bookmobile and is a bride, even if she is 62 years old.
Atle Petersheim (Amish) who you will like immediately. A bachelor in his 40s but not a “confirmed” bachelor if you get my meaning. He asks Sarah for a reference book on ‘courting’.
Sadie Mast (Amish), a widow not quite 40, runs a baking business selling through stores in town.
Cale, 16 and the oldest is very aware of the financial strain and works hard. But Cale also feels a great deal of responsibility for his mother and siblings. His plans of being on his own at 18 may not happen now.
Viola who is 14 wanting to be 16 and not afraid to voice her discontent. Her discontent is rarely directed to her mamm.
Jason is 11 and well, opinionated, a bit spoiled but will, at times, make you chuckle if not laugh out loud.
Hope Overholt (Amish), also 16 and hopes Cale will notice her someday.
Hope’s parents who are gut people but tend to treat her as if she was much younger than she is.
Animal characters — I personally enjoy animal characters. They tend to add charm to a story. There is Prudence the sheep who is contrary as can be but especially around Cale. And Bonnie, a mare, and her companion, a silly, sweet goat named Gwen.
Be aware that Sadie’s husband was abusive not only in words but in his actions toward her and her two oldest children. The abuse is only in past tense and in reference to how it has affected Sadie and the children. It is important to the story; descriptions are minimal.
Another ‘different’ approach is the book Mrs. Canon recommends to Atle — each chapter of “A Christmas Courtship” begins with a bit of the reference book. You will smile at Atle’s reading of the “reference” book.
This is SUCH an enjoyable read and takes place at Christmas time. But for me, the story’s emphasis was on learning to trust again. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gallery Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Rating: 5 stars.
Cover rating: 4.5 stars. A particularly good cover but not sure how the objects held in her hands have to do with the story.
#AChristmasCourtship #ShelleyShepardGray #NetGalley
The print version has 317 pages which the author uses wisely to build the story so that it remains interesting throughout. The book does not drag; the book does not rush. The story just weaves its way and feels believable.
Such great characters in this list which should help set the story:
There is Sarah Anne Miller Canon (Englisher), who drives the bookmobile and is a bride, even if she is 62 years old.
Atle Petersheim (Amish) who you will like immediately. A bachelor in his 40s but not a “confirmed” bachelor if you get my meaning. He asks Sarah for a reference book on ‘courting’.
Sadie Mast (Amish), a widow not quite 40, runs a baking business selling through stores in town.
Cale, 16 and the oldest is very aware of the financial strain and works hard. But Cale also feels a great deal of responsibility for his mother and siblings. His plans of being on his own at 18 may not happen now.
Viola who is 14 wanting to be 16 and not afraid to voice her discontent. Her discontent is rarely directed to her mamm.
Jason is 11 and well, opinionated, a bit spoiled but will, at times, make you chuckle if not laugh out loud.
Hope Overholt (Amish), also 16 and hopes Cale will notice her someday.
Hope’s parents who are gut people but tend to treat her as if she was much younger than she is.
Animal characters — I personally enjoy animal characters. They tend to add charm to a story. There is Prudence the sheep who is contrary as can be but especially around Cale. And Bonnie, a mare, and her companion, a silly, sweet goat named Gwen.
Be aware that Sadie’s husband was abusive not only in words but in his actions toward her and her two oldest children. The abuse is only in past tense and in reference to how it has affected Sadie and the children. It is important to the story; descriptions are minimal.
Another ‘different’ approach is the book Mrs. Canon recommends to Atle — each chapter of “A Christmas Courtship” begins with a bit of the reference book. You will smile at Atle’s reading of the “reference” book.
This is SUCH an enjoyable read and takes place at Christmas time. But for me, the story’s emphasis was on learning to trust again. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gallery Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Rating: 5 stars.
Cover rating: 4.5 stars. A particularly good cover but not sure how the objects held in her hands have to do with the story.
#AChristmasCourtship #ShelleyShepardGray #NetGalley
January 15, 2022
Shelley Shepard Gray never disappoints with her stories and this last installment of The Berlin Bookmobile Series is now my favorite. Atle Petersheim is attracted to his neighbor Sadie Mast but knew he needed assistance with his courting skills. The only safe place he felt he could turn was to the bookmobile librarian Sarah Anne, who was a new bride recently and experienced with wisdom with her age.
Atle’s and Sadie’s story is a warm quilt filled with a wide range of emotions, disappointments, dreams and hopes all surrounding the wonderful Christmas season. Gray weaved a heartwarming story with the actions, conversations, admiration and hopefulness Atle, Sadie and her children were experiencing in this tale. Each characters is dimensional with their flaws and strengths along with faith and wanting the best for others. Their faith, hope, prayers and romance brought plenty of smiles along with tears when they faced some challenging situations.
Amish fans will not want to miss reading the entire Berline Bookmobile series by Shelley Shepherd Gray filled with heartwarming romance, faith and new hope for life.
Atle’s and Sadie’s story is a warm quilt filled with a wide range of emotions, disappointments, dreams and hopes all surrounding the wonderful Christmas season. Gray weaved a heartwarming story with the actions, conversations, admiration and hopefulness Atle, Sadie and her children were experiencing in this tale. Each characters is dimensional with their flaws and strengths along with faith and wanting the best for others. Their faith, hope, prayers and romance brought plenty of smiles along with tears when they faced some challenging situations.
Amish fans will not want to miss reading the entire Berline Bookmobile series by Shelley Shepherd Gray filled with heartwarming romance, faith and new hope for life.
September 30, 2021
I really enjoy this series and how the Berlin bookmobile is there for the community and their patrons ... and not just to provide books. While part of a series, it can be read as a standalone novel. This book, like the other two in the series, combines well-crafted characters and a heartfelt storyline to draw the reader in. Sarah Ann Miller is a wonderful character, and you can't help but like her. This is a sweet Amish romance set amid the Christmas season, making it a perfect read for the upcoming season.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
December 24, 2021
A most enjoyable finale to the Berlin Bookmobile series. This was a quick, easy read with a fun story line with two courting couples and the ups and downs along the way. Sweet read.
April 4, 2022
A Christmas courtship was such a totally adorable Amish book I just can't say how the cuteness overload was. There are several stories going on at once and they all intertwine with each other. I just fell in live with how the author put you in the middle of it all and made you feel like you where part of the story, a widower, a single guy who liked the girl but was totally ackward around women and girl who had to make a rough choice all around Christmas. This is going to be one of those books I read every Christmas because I just loved it. Definitely another 5 🌟
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I won 🏆 via goodreads giveaways, all my opinions are my own:)
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I won 🏆 via goodreads giveaways, all my opinions are my own:)
December 28, 2022
This may be my favorite book in the series thus far. It's nice to read a romance about a widower and a man in his 40's, rather than Amish teens or adults in their 20s. Those are fine to read about, but it's nice to read about some more "realistic" relationships. There are two relationships unfolding at the same time, a bachelor trying to woo his neighbor and two teenagers who have long crushed on each other. Of course there are ups and downs, missed opportunities and mistakenly hurt feelings - but all eventually turns out for the best. Sickeningly sweet and charming - perfect for the holidays. I hope there are more in this series!
December 13, 2021
I enjoy an Amish story every now and again and was drawn to the idea of a bookmobile librarian helping with matters of love through books.
Forty-two-year-old Atle Petersheim enjoys working in his wood shop, but is lonely. He has silently had a crush on Sadie Mast. When the mother of three, now a widow, approached him about building a room for her son Cale, he readily accepts the job. He knows how to build, but not women, so he seeks the help of bookmobile librarian Sarah Anne Miller for courting advice.
This was a sweet story, and I loved Atle and how wholeheartedly he attempts to court Sadie. He gets nudges from Cale, and of course the romance novels Sarah recommends to him.
Sadie is a loveable character raising three children and trying to do right by them. It was delightful to witness their banter, uncertainty, and genuine feelings.
We get a second romance between Cale and his employer’s daughter. It was complicated and sweet. Gray did a lovely job with Hope and Cale’s story, weaving in lessons, character growth and first kisses. Hope sought Sarah Anne’s help. Of course, she recommended just the right book.
I loved the relationship that built between Cale and Atle. Sadie’s marriage wasn’t a good one, and Gray touched on the subject while allowing her characters to have hope.
If you are looking for a sweet holiday romance, you’ll love this heartwarming tale. Tavia Gilbert is a new to me narrator, and I enjoyed listening. She gave voice to each of the characters, capturing their emotions and personalities This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Forty-two-year-old Atle Petersheim enjoys working in his wood shop, but is lonely. He has silently had a crush on Sadie Mast. When the mother of three, now a widow, approached him about building a room for her son Cale, he readily accepts the job. He knows how to build, but not women, so he seeks the help of bookmobile librarian Sarah Anne Miller for courting advice.
This was a sweet story, and I loved Atle and how wholeheartedly he attempts to court Sadie. He gets nudges from Cale, and of course the romance novels Sarah recommends to him.
Sadie is a loveable character raising three children and trying to do right by them. It was delightful to witness their banter, uncertainty, and genuine feelings.
We get a second romance between Cale and his employer’s daughter. It was complicated and sweet. Gray did a lovely job with Hope and Cale’s story, weaving in lessons, character growth and first kisses. Hope sought Sarah Anne’s help. Of course, she recommended just the right book.
I loved the relationship that built between Cale and Atle. Sadie’s marriage wasn’t a good one, and Gray touched on the subject while allowing her characters to have hope.
If you are looking for a sweet holiday romance, you’ll love this heartwarming tale. Tavia Gilbert is a new to me narrator, and I enjoyed listening. She gave voice to each of the characters, capturing their emotions and personalities This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
November 21, 2021
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway! This is the third in the Berlin Bookmobile Amish series. I feel that it's really best to read the first two, to become familiar with the characters. In 'A Christmas Courtship,' the bookmobile librarian, Sarah Anne Miller Canon (recently married), gives courting advice to Atle Petersheim, in the form of a romance novel! As two love matches are explored, the novel exudes the warmth of a fireplace lit on Christmas Eve. The well-rounded characters display the importance of love, family, and forgiveness. A perfect read for the Christmas season!
February 1, 2022
Another fabulous Christmas read from one of my favorite Amish romance writers!
I love this Bookmobile series, and this third installment was a heartwarming, touching read about love, loss, forgiveness, and getting past the hurts of the past to build a better future.
Highly-recommended!
This book is completely clean in language and content. :0}
I borrowed this book from the 'Newly Acquired' shelf at our local public library.
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I love this Bookmobile series, and this third installment was a heartwarming, touching read about love, loss, forgiveness, and getting past the hurts of the past to build a better future.
Highly-recommended!
This book is completely clean in language and content. :0}
I borrowed this book from the 'Newly Acquired' shelf at our local public library.
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November 12, 2024
Drippy sweet, wholesome Christmas. Just what my heart needed.
July 26, 2023
My least favorite of the 3 in this series…seemed to move slower.
Read
May 23, 2022Third on the Berlin Bookmobile Series. Being a retired librarian I loved the bookmobile librarian Sarah and how she would find the perfect book for each person
December 18, 2023
I loved this clean romance series it was so good!!!
I loved hearing about Sadie and her family too. The bookmobile adventures have been interesting with the range of customers that come to see her. An Amish man asks for help and she does her best to help him with some books. I loved how the family works together to all help one another. This was such a heartwarming romance and Christmas read filled with the Christmas Spirit and bringing joy.
I’m sad that this is the last of this series, I really enjoy Amy Clipstons books if you haven’t read any of them I highly recommend this series.
I loved hearing about Sadie and her family too. The bookmobile adventures have been interesting with the range of customers that come to see her. An Amish man asks for help and she does her best to help him with some books. I loved how the family works together to all help one another. This was such a heartwarming romance and Christmas read filled with the Christmas Spirit and bringing joy.
I’m sad that this is the last of this series, I really enjoy Amy Clipstons books if you haven’t read any of them I highly recommend this series.
October 11, 2022
I enjoyed this third installment and it wrapped up the three books quite well. Sadie is a widow with three kids. Atle is her age and has known Sadie since she was married. Never married, he struggles with demonstrating his feelings toward her. He approaches the librarian, Sarah Ann, for resources. She lends him a romance novel. Shocked, he leaves without the book, but eventually returns to retrieve it. Simultaneously, her sixteen year old son, Cale, also has feelings for his boss’s daughter, but feels at a loss when they attend a party together and feels he let her down when he could not prevent her getting drunk. Complications arise. The story takes the couples through challenges they must overcome.
December 28, 2021
A Christmas Courtship is the 3rd amazing story written by Shelley Shepard Gray in her series The Berlin Bookmobile. I enjoyed all of the characters and getting to know their personal stories. This story is filled with loss, love, friendships, humor, and faith. The author has added another fantastic story to her series. I don't want to spoil this story for others so I won't go into details.
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. Congratulations to Shelley Shepard Gray on releasing another enjoyable read for her fans.
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. Congratulations to Shelley Shepard Gray on releasing another enjoyable read for her fans.
October 23, 2021
I have really enjoyed this series. 62 year-old newlywed Sarah Canon is thrown off when Atle Petersheim visits her Bookmobile and tell her he needs a book on courting. A courting book to help a middle-age man, meaning himself of course. His heart is set on trying to court his neighbor Sadie.
Sadie Mast, a widow and mother of three is finally settling into the changes life has thrown her way. Her marriage has left her with many challenges. Her children, especially her eldest son, sixteen year old Cale do their best to help her move forward. A secondary romance story is brewing with Cale.
This book is an absolute joy! As Atle does research using the book Sarah finds for him I just laugh and laugh at his reactions. He is so serious as he studies and takes notes. It is so funny and endearing.
The story is very well written and engaging as the characters develop. It has a good feeling of Christmas in the telling.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. I loved this book.
This is my own opinion.
Sadie Mast, a widow and mother of three is finally settling into the changes life has thrown her way. Her marriage has left her with many challenges. Her children, especially her eldest son, sixteen year old Cale do their best to help her move forward. A secondary romance story is brewing with Cale.
This book is an absolute joy! As Atle does research using the book Sarah finds for him I just laugh and laugh at his reactions. He is so serious as he studies and takes notes. It is so funny and endearing.
The story is very well written and engaging as the characters develop. It has a good feeling of Christmas in the telling.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. I loved this book.
This is my own opinion.
August 30, 2021
A great holiday read from Shelley Shepard Gray. She gives us another book in the Berlin Bookmobile series.
We once again find bookmobile librarian, Sarah Ann Miller, playing a part in helping her readers learn about and find romance. The book gives us not one, but two romances that intertwine through family connections, making it even more interesting. Young love, mid-life love, overcoming the effects of abuse, and holiday action makes this a sweet Amish Christmas romance you will not want to miss adding to your holiday reading.
I received a copy of this book from Gallery Books and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
We once again find bookmobile librarian, Sarah Ann Miller, playing a part in helping her readers learn about and find romance. The book gives us not one, but two romances that intertwine through family connections, making it even more interesting. Young love, mid-life love, overcoming the effects of abuse, and holiday action makes this a sweet Amish Christmas romance you will not want to miss adding to your holiday reading.
I received a copy of this book from Gallery Books and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
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