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Amish Mail Order Grooms #2
Courting Caleb
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Appalachia, CBA bestselling author Kelly Long’s second installment in The Amish Mail Order Grooms series is a heartwarming, emotionally rich romance, as young women determined to wed advertise for husbands in an Amish newspaper…
In a small Appalachian community with few single men, young Amish women take fate in hand and help forge their own paths to happy marriages…
Wanted: An Amish Mail Order Groom. Age 20 30. Must understand that courting will follow the marriage ceremony in gut order. Seeking one who is reserved, quiet, and bookish.
It worked for her best friend, so why shouldn’t Abigail Mast, the local potter of Blackberry Falls, follow suit and advertise for a groom? But her plan goes awry when two men arrive in answer to her ad. The bishop’s unexpected solution: Abigail should court them both and make a decision by Valentine’s Day. Just as the clay she works with reveals its true purpose in time, surely she will discover which man is most suited to be her Husband…
Caleb thought his bruder was crazy for answering an ad and agreeing to marry a complete stranger. Yet there’s no denying he’s found a gut wife and a happy life. Rather than agree to the unsuitable match his father has made for him, Caleb answers another ad from faraway Blackberry Falls. There he discovers a woman who makes him forget his past—and a rival groom-to-be. Will Gott free all involved to make the right decisions for their heads and their hearts?
In a small Appalachian community with few single men, young Amish women take fate in hand and help forge their own paths to happy marriages…
Wanted: An Amish Mail Order Groom. Age 20 30. Must understand that courting will follow the marriage ceremony in gut order. Seeking one who is reserved, quiet, and bookish.
It worked for her best friend, so why shouldn’t Abigail Mast, the local potter of Blackberry Falls, follow suit and advertise for a groom? But her plan goes awry when two men arrive in answer to her ad. The bishop’s unexpected solution: Abigail should court them both and make a decision by Valentine’s Day. Just as the clay she works with reveals its true purpose in time, surely she will discover which man is most suited to be her Husband…
Caleb thought his bruder was crazy for answering an ad and agreeing to marry a complete stranger. Yet there’s no denying he’s found a gut wife and a happy life. Rather than agree to the unsuitable match his father has made for him, Caleb answers another ad from faraway Blackberry Falls. There he discovers a woman who makes him forget his past—and a rival groom-to-be. Will Gott free all involved to make the right decisions for their heads and their hearts?
- GenresAmishAmish Fiction
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
3 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 16, 2022
I think the overwhelming Christian evangelical fascination with Amish fiction is a bit odd. I myself have read only three -- a series by Beverly Lewis, some fifteen years ago. I figured I'd try out a new one to see what the genre is like now. I'm not the target audience because I don't like romance, but I wasn't going to hold that against this book.
What I did hold against this book is its sloppiness. It felt as if I were reading a first draft, and not one that the author took particular care with. The story basically wrapped up by Chapter 16, but the book dragged on until Chapter 29 and an Epilogue. None of the characters seemed particularly Amish, especially not the ones who apparently had magical powers. The author didn't appear to understand the Amish culture beyond search-and-replacing a few English words with Pennsylvania Dutch words.
It's not like she didn't have some good ideas. The romantic relationships were pretty healthy ones, which is refreshing for the romance genre. I didn't mind the slightly-warmer-to-the-touch romance scenes, either. But overall, the story wasn't done well and I think it was rather disrespectful to the actual Amish community.
The author should just write the fantasy romance she wants to -- preferably running it past an editor before publishing it -- and leave the Amish out of it.
What I did hold against this book is its sloppiness. It felt as if I were reading a first draft, and not one that the author took particular care with. The story basically wrapped up by Chapter 16, but the book dragged on until Chapter 29 and an Epilogue. None of the characters seemed particularly Amish, especially not the ones who apparently had magical powers. The author didn't appear to understand the Amish culture beyond search-and-replacing a few English words with Pennsylvania Dutch words.
It's not like she didn't have some good ideas. The romantic relationships were pretty healthy ones, which is refreshing for the romance genre. I didn't mind the slightly-warmer-to-the-touch romance scenes, either. But overall, the story wasn't done well and I think it was rather disrespectful to the actual Amish community.
The author should just write the fantasy romance she wants to -- preferably running it past an editor before publishing it -- and leave the Amish out of it.
April 3, 2022
My Description:
Abigail Mast advertises for an “Amish Mail-Order Groom” just like her best friend did. Caleb King responds to the ad after another abusive encounter with his after. He appears in the open door at Abigail’s pottery without writing ahead. Startled at his sudden appearance, Abigail drops the mug she was working on. Then — Abigail informs Caleb that there is another groom already there. Phillip Miller. Two grooms, one ad.
Review:
My reaction during and after reading — WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH KELLY LONG? In the past few years, I have read seven (7) books and several novellas by Kelly Long; the lowest review rating was four stars. Sorry — not this time.
The pacing is thrown off because the story bounces back and forth between Abigail, Caleb, Mercy (Abigail’s sister), Phillip, a unique character Birchbark, and an even stranger Bishop Kore, Matthew & Tabitha King (book 1), Joshua (Mercy’s son) … Plus, other people that live in Blackberry Falls.
The author wanted, I believe, to make the bishop a whimsical character with his “moon pies and popsicles”, “teeter totters and spaghetti”, etc. comments. For this reviewer, it wore thin quickly. His whimsy just didn’t seem to fit, especially with the bounce of the storyline.
I enjoyed the Birchbark character throughout, his backpack has somewhat of a magical quality. Enjoyable. You wish you had a Birchbark in your neighborhood. But the author introduces yet another semi-paranormal character — perhaps, too much of a good thing.
However, I did not like the way the couples interacted with each other as their relationships grew. Frankly too much touching, kissing, etc. for an Amish novel. I wondered if one couple was going to go well beyond that. One groom was especially forward in his suggestions — too forward, IMHO.
So, no. I did not like and cannot recommend Courting Caleb, rating 2.5 stars; 2 stars on websites showing only whole numbers. I did not feel I was missing information from (not-read) book one, "Marrying Matthew", which might have helped in reading book two. Courting Caleb can be read standalone. This book was just TOO — too many characters, too much paranormal-ish, too many sexual inuendoes, too cutesy of a bishop … just too much shoved into the same book.
I received a complimentary e-ARC* copy of Courting Caleb from the publisher, Kensington Books, Zebra, via NetGalley. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed are entirely my own.
#CourtingCaleb #NetGalley
Title: Courting Caleb
Series: The Amish Mail Order Grooms #2
Author: Kelly Long
Genre: Amish, Mail Order, paranormal-ish
Publisher: Kensington Books, Zebra
Release Date: April 26, 2022
Format: Kindle (read), Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 272
Source: NetGalley
Cover: Very pretty. Good use of color. Title & author are easy to read in the thumbnail.
Abigail Mast advertises for an “Amish Mail-Order Groom” just like her best friend did. Caleb King responds to the ad after another abusive encounter with his after. He appears in the open door at Abigail’s pottery without writing ahead. Startled at his sudden appearance, Abigail drops the mug she was working on. Then — Abigail informs Caleb that there is another groom already there. Phillip Miller. Two grooms, one ad.
Review:
My reaction during and after reading — WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH KELLY LONG? In the past few years, I have read seven (7) books and several novellas by Kelly Long; the lowest review rating was four stars. Sorry — not this time.
The pacing is thrown off because the story bounces back and forth between Abigail, Caleb, Mercy (Abigail’s sister), Phillip, a unique character Birchbark, and an even stranger Bishop Kore, Matthew & Tabitha King (book 1), Joshua (Mercy’s son) … Plus, other people that live in Blackberry Falls.
The author wanted, I believe, to make the bishop a whimsical character with his “moon pies and popsicles”, “teeter totters and spaghetti”, etc. comments. For this reviewer, it wore thin quickly. His whimsy just didn’t seem to fit, especially with the bounce of the storyline.
I enjoyed the Birchbark character throughout, his backpack has somewhat of a magical quality. Enjoyable. You wish you had a Birchbark in your neighborhood. But the author introduces yet another semi-paranormal character — perhaps, too much of a good thing.
However, I did not like the way the couples interacted with each other as their relationships grew. Frankly too much touching, kissing, etc. for an Amish novel. I wondered if one couple was going to go well beyond that. One groom was especially forward in his suggestions — too forward, IMHO.
So, no. I did not like and cannot recommend Courting Caleb, rating 2.5 stars; 2 stars on websites showing only whole numbers. I did not feel I was missing information from (not-read) book one, "Marrying Matthew", which might have helped in reading book two. Courting Caleb can be read standalone. This book was just TOO — too many characters, too much paranormal-ish, too many sexual inuendoes, too cutesy of a bishop … just too much shoved into the same book.
I received a complimentary e-ARC* copy of Courting Caleb from the publisher, Kensington Books, Zebra, via NetGalley. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed are entirely my own.
#CourtingCaleb #NetGalley
Title: Courting Caleb
Series: The Amish Mail Order Grooms #2
Author: Kelly Long
Genre: Amish, Mail Order, paranormal-ish
Publisher: Kensington Books, Zebra
Release Date: April 26, 2022
Format: Kindle (read), Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 272
Source: NetGalley
Cover: Very pretty. Good use of color. Title & author are easy to read in the thumbnail.
April 17, 2022
Courting Caleb by Kelly Long is the second novel in The Amish Mail Order Grooms series. Courting Caleb can be read as a standalone if you have not indulged in Marrying Matthew. I have mixed reactions to this book. Courting Caleb is a unique Amish story. It is told from multiple points of view which can be confusing. It switches between Abigail, Caleb, Phillip, Mercy, and Joshua (I might have forgotten a character or two who had a POV). There are quite a few characters in the story. There is an eccentric bishop (Bishop Kore) who is loud and uses unusual phrases, Birchbark with his magical pack, and Fern the healer with her special ornaments. I like the addition of the paranormal element, but I wish the author had stopped with Birchbark. I would love a Birchbark in my village. I like that Abigail is a potter. I thought it was unique for an Amish novel. I was baffled as to the time period of the novel. At times it felt like it was set in the present day, but some elements made it feel like it was in the late 1800s (with log cabins, no running water). I was expecting a clean Amish romance novel. I was surprised by the amount of kissing, touching, and intimate thoughts. This book definitely crossed the line with the PDA (there was just so much of it). I like that we get to catch up with Matthew and Tabitha from Marrying Matthew. Courting Caleb was a miss for me. I liked the premise of a woman placing an ad for a groom and getting two responses. I felt that the author tried to combine too many differing elements into one book (the eccentric bishop, the paranormal and fantasy elements, too many characters, various storylines, and the sexual innuendos). I was looking forward to reading a sweet, clean Amish novel and that is not Courting Caleb. Courting Caleb is an unusual Amish romance with friendly folks, a boisterous bishop, a groom seeking ceramicist, a sour sister, a magical pack, a helpful healer, and a duo of eager grooms.
April 23, 2024
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was only the 2nd Novel ive read in this series and by Kelly so i kind of knew what to expect even tho Kelly is still a NEW TO ME Author.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Abigail, Caleb and Phillip were definately my favorites. At times i felt like Abigail and Phillip were a good fit until he got in Caleb's face then my Ship for them changed so needless to say how this book ended was not what i expect but im happy for Abigail none the less.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Blackberry Falls Pennsylvania while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall Another Good Book in this Amish Fiction Romance Series!! Can't wait to read more by Kelly in the future!!
Review:
This was only the 2nd Novel ive read in this series and by Kelly so i kind of knew what to expect even tho Kelly is still a NEW TO ME Author.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Abigail, Caleb and Phillip were definately my favorites. At times i felt like Abigail and Phillip were a good fit until he got in Caleb's face then my Ship for them changed so needless to say how this book ended was not what i expect but im happy for Abigail none the less.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Blackberry Falls Pennsylvania while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall Another Good Book in this Amish Fiction Romance Series!! Can't wait to read more by Kelly in the future!!
January 23, 2022
In all honesty my gut reaction is what in the world did I just read?! I am trying to wrap my head around it all. Is it Amish it's not Amish. Is it fantasy or is it two book manuscripts that got mistakenly merged? I will come back to finish this review after I have some time to think. I am just shaking my head.
Okay, full disclosure. I realized a few hours after completing the book that I mixed the name of the author up with an Amish story author that I love so this book shocked me. Kelly Long certainly has a very different twist on an Amish theme than what I am used to reading. That is her " poetic license".
I opened the book to read what I believed to be a clean Amish romance. It was not what I found. In my own opinion I feel that the story is an insult to the Amish people. A writer has the right to dream up what that mind chooses. I totally believe that.
The authors' take on what she views for Amish is absolutely her choice. This is a sensuous story compared to what I am used to reading and I was uncomfortable with it. Of course I would hope that there is attraction and physical wonders in any relationship but this story is not the norm for what I expect. That is my choice.
My reaction to the overall story and the reason for a low rating goes beyond my surprise at the physical aspect. This story has good characters with a lot of potential but a little over half way through, some strange bits and pieces had me stymied for sure. The plot seemed to become disjointed for me. The fantasy/magical portions just didn't mesh with the 'Amish' story. It just became weird. I truly hate giving low ratings but this was all too much. One minute it felt like a seductive Amish fantasy, the next a drugged candy flash, then an attempted murder, another a wizard-like magic moment with a filled pack. Just so weird.
I can't say I would ever be interested in reading another of Long 's books. I'm sorry for that because in the writing I could visualize scenes, etc. The characters she created were also easy to like or dislike but overall, this book is just too strange or me.
I appreciate my advanced reader's copy of the book which was provided by the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to give my opinion but here it is.
Okay, full disclosure. I realized a few hours after completing the book that I mixed the name of the author up with an Amish story author that I love so this book shocked me. Kelly Long certainly has a very different twist on an Amish theme than what I am used to reading. That is her " poetic license".
I opened the book to read what I believed to be a clean Amish romance. It was not what I found. In my own opinion I feel that the story is an insult to the Amish people. A writer has the right to dream up what that mind chooses. I totally believe that.
The authors' take on what she views for Amish is absolutely her choice. This is a sensuous story compared to what I am used to reading and I was uncomfortable with it. Of course I would hope that there is attraction and physical wonders in any relationship but this story is not the norm for what I expect. That is my choice.
My reaction to the overall story and the reason for a low rating goes beyond my surprise at the physical aspect. This story has good characters with a lot of potential but a little over half way through, some strange bits and pieces had me stymied for sure. The plot seemed to become disjointed for me. The fantasy/magical portions just didn't mesh with the 'Amish' story. It just became weird. I truly hate giving low ratings but this was all too much. One minute it felt like a seductive Amish fantasy, the next a drugged candy flash, then an attempted murder, another a wizard-like magic moment with a filled pack. Just so weird.
I can't say I would ever be interested in reading another of Long 's books. I'm sorry for that because in the writing I could visualize scenes, etc. The characters she created were also easy to like or dislike but overall, this book is just too strange or me.
I appreciate my advanced reader's copy of the book which was provided by the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to give my opinion but here it is.
January 14, 2022
There's a difference between enough and abundance. We as humans think in terms of enough. We are not good enough, didn't do enough, we are not enough. The concept of enough haunts us but God deals in abundance.
Instead of the Amish Order Mail Bride this community in the Appalachian community is short on good men. Abigail Mast has witnessed first hand her best friend mail order groom succeed so puts pen to paper and orders a groom. She receives 2 to pick from and to make it fair she courts both of them. Caleb is the brother of her best friend who was running away from his father. He too witnessed the success of his brother and takes a chance on love. Phillip actually responded to Abigail's post and is impressed with the community of Amish.
The secondary characters are so important in Abigail's decision. Her single sister that is raising her 14 year old son is one that questions Phillip's motives. The second notable character was Birchbark.
He took in Caleb during the courting time. He had a special gift that was not an Amish trait. He could see into the future and read minds. A little different for an Amish book. He was interesting and seemed to know the inner struggles that Caleb was facing.
Abigail was drawn more to Caleb because of her past failure that she struggled with that she was able to redeem by helping another. This dealt with a abusive relationship.
As far as the plot goes, I enjoyed it but it was not a typical Amish Romance dealing with typical faith questions. I was surprised with the passion but by secular terms it was mild. I think the author was trying to do something a little different along with her characters and plot. Did she succeed or did she fail? I think it depends if what she changed or touched on was important or if it was glorifying to the faith. The characters were dealing with being enough and reconciling it with the abundance of God. That can be a slippery slope for some. For me, it was a change of pace that I try to gleam spiritual truths.
A special thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the aRC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Instead of the Amish Order Mail Bride this community in the Appalachian community is short on good men. Abigail Mast has witnessed first hand her best friend mail order groom succeed so puts pen to paper and orders a groom. She receives 2 to pick from and to make it fair she courts both of them. Caleb is the brother of her best friend who was running away from his father. He too witnessed the success of his brother and takes a chance on love. Phillip actually responded to Abigail's post and is impressed with the community of Amish.
The secondary characters are so important in Abigail's decision. Her single sister that is raising her 14 year old son is one that questions Phillip's motives. The second notable character was Birchbark.
He took in Caleb during the courting time. He had a special gift that was not an Amish trait. He could see into the future and read minds. A little different for an Amish book. He was interesting and seemed to know the inner struggles that Caleb was facing.
Abigail was drawn more to Caleb because of her past failure that she struggled with that she was able to redeem by helping another. This dealt with a abusive relationship.
As far as the plot goes, I enjoyed it but it was not a typical Amish Romance dealing with typical faith questions. I was surprised with the passion but by secular terms it was mild. I think the author was trying to do something a little different along with her characters and plot. Did she succeed or did she fail? I think it depends if what she changed or touched on was important or if it was glorifying to the faith. The characters were dealing with being enough and reconciling it with the abundance of God. That can be a slippery slope for some. For me, it was a change of pace that I try to gleam spiritual truths.
A special thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the aRC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
January 24, 2022
In the true Kelly Long style, Courting Caleb is far from the usual sweet Amish romance. Kelly shares strong emotions of love, desire, hope, fear and understanding as she revisits the small Appalachia village of Blackberry Falls.
Abigail Mast, the local potter, has decided it is time to marry, and since there are few single men to choose from, and non to her liking, she places an add in the Amish newspaper for an Amish Mail Order Groom.
She gets not one, but two applicants. Wisely, the Bishop suggest she court both and decide by Valentine’s Day which one she will marry.
The choice takes some time, but also sparks possible romance for her sister as well.
Expect the unexpected and you will not be disappointed in Kelly Long unique style.
This books deserves a 5-star rating. Release day is April 26, 2022, and we’ll worth the wait.
Thank you Kensington Books, Zebra, for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book through NetGalley and offer my honest opinions.
April 23, 2022
Courting Caleb" is the second book in Kelly Long's The Amish Mail Order Grooms series, This story centers around Caleb, Matthew's brother, and Abigail, the potter in Blackberry Falls. Since it worked so well for Abigail's friend, Tabitha, Abigail decides to write her own ad for a mail order groom. The trouble is that TWO potential grooms show up! Her bishop suggests courting them both and making a decision on one of them by Valentine's Day. Will Abigail be able to make her decision by that time?
I did enjoy this book somewhat, but as from previous experience, this author teeters on the edge of being a little too ""racey" for me, especially for an Amish romance. If you've read "Marrying Matthew", you may want to read this book, as well, to see how the story line continues.
As always, a big thank you goes to Net Galley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. All of the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
#CourtingCaleb #NetGalley
I did enjoy this book somewhat, but as from previous experience, this author teeters on the edge of being a little too ""racey" for me, especially for an Amish romance. If you've read "Marrying Matthew", you may want to read this book, as well, to see how the story line continues.
As always, a big thank you goes to Net Galley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. All of the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
#CourtingCaleb #NetGalley
May 7, 2022
The second in The Amish Mail Order Grooms series, Abigail Mast, a single, Amish potter, advertises for a groom, but surprisingly, two men arrive to answer her ad. She asks the local Bishop what she could do and he tells her she should court them both and make a decision by Valentine’s Day.
Caleb, whose brother had previously answered an ad and ended up marrying the woman, decided he wants to get away from his abusive father and decides to answer an ad.
How will Gott provide an answer to whom Abigail should marry? There is an entire cast of characters in this book that are all delightful and their lives become very intertwined. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to those who enjoy reading Amish books.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Zondervan.
Caleb, whose brother had previously answered an ad and ended up marrying the woman, decided he wants to get away from his abusive father and decides to answer an ad.
How will Gott provide an answer to whom Abigail should marry? There is an entire cast of characters in this book that are all delightful and their lives become very intertwined. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to those who enjoy reading Amish books.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Zondervan.
February 1, 2022
This is not a typical Amish read, and knowing an Amish Bishop, he would be aghast. At least in Central NY, the Community is entirely different!
I figured out how this book would come together early on, and yes, it was as it should be, but other happenings, well, I had a hard time getting through this one.
I did enjoy the character Birchbark, and yes, this is more fantasy read, and I do avoid them. That being said, some will enjoy this, but it wasn't for me.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
I figured out how this book would come together early on, and yes, it was as it should be, but other happenings, well, I had a hard time getting through this one.
I did enjoy the character Birchbark, and yes, this is more fantasy read, and I do avoid them. That being said, some will enjoy this, but it wasn't for me.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
January 18, 2024
WOW this book started out fair but the more I read it got very odd for a Amish book so very different from any other I read I tried to finish but just couldn't just didn't make sense all the weirdest going back & forth and mostly the Amish life style . It seems like the author got 2 books going at the same time amish life & fantasy . To me this is not a good read .
February 24, 2022
This was my first book by Kelly Long. I enjoy Amish books when I have a quick afternoon to sit down and read but this was not quite your typical Amish story. It had a bit more romance than you'd normally find so I'm not sure my library patrons who love the traditional Amish stories would like this. If you don't mind extra kisses and the hints that suggest more, you might enjoy this a little more than I did.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publishes 26 April 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Publishes 26 April 2022
May 14, 2022
Court short; marry long
This is a heart warming story. Two potential grooms come to her, but only one will gain her trust and her heart. But don't feel badly for the second man as he finds happiness too.
This is a heart warming story. Two potential grooms come to her, but only one will gain her trust and her heart. But don't feel badly for the second man as he finds happiness too.
June 5, 2022
On the Fence
This Amish book is much different than what I'm used to reading. I understand that each Ordnung has different rules, but this story is much more Englisch than usual. I liked it, but I prefer more conservative material.
This Amish book is much different than what I'm used to reading. I understand that each Ordnung has different rules, but this story is much more Englisch than usual. I liked it, but I prefer more conservative material.
June 9, 2024
I know it's a work of fiction, but having done some studying of the Amish culture, I feel the author did not portray the Amish anywhere near accurately in this book. That being said, it is a good story
June 23, 2023
A wonderful and uplifting book
Want to read
October 16, 2024A
March 25, 2025
A very disappointing read as knowing Amish Bishops they would never act like Long portrayed in the story or participate in magic.
August 28, 2022
When potter Abigail Mast advertises for a mail order groom, she doesn't expect two eligible bachelors to show up at her door. The bishop comes up with an unusual solution: Abigail must court them both, and decide whom she wants to marry by Valentine's Day!
From the novel's narration -- and its title! -- it's pretty clear from the start who, between Caleb the handyman and Phillip the farmer, will win Abigail's hand. To the author's credit, she doesn't belabour the love triangle aspect too much. Abigail and Caleb hit it off almost immediately, and their kisses send heat and sparks through both of them. In contrast, Abigail and Phillip have many pleasant conversations about seeds, and at multiple points, Abigail has to remind herself to give Phillip a fair shot at her hand.
To the author's credit, she gives Phillip a well-developed romance of his own. While Abigail and Caleb are wonderful characters as well, there were times I found myself more drawn to Phillip's romantic subplot. Partly, it's because while Abigail and Caleb hit it off immediately, Phillip and his love interest have a more contentious start to their relationship. They also have a legit barrier standing in their way -- the fact that Phillip is technically in town to marry Abigail, and neither he nor his love interest wants to hurt Abigail's feelings. And finally, the secondary heroine's backstory is more complicated, with present-day implications that make her understandably reluctant to pursue a romantic relationship. In contrast, Abigail's tragic backstory, about her guilt over the death of a childhood bully, doesn't seem as big a barrier.
Full review on my blog: https://literarytreats.com/2022/02/08...
From the novel's narration -- and its title! -- it's pretty clear from the start who, between Caleb the handyman and Phillip the farmer, will win Abigail's hand. To the author's credit, she doesn't belabour the love triangle aspect too much. Abigail and Caleb hit it off almost immediately, and their kisses send heat and sparks through both of them. In contrast, Abigail and Phillip have many pleasant conversations about seeds, and at multiple points, Abigail has to remind herself to give Phillip a fair shot at her hand.
To the author's credit, she gives Phillip a well-developed romance of his own. While Abigail and Caleb are wonderful characters as well, there were times I found myself more drawn to Phillip's romantic subplot. Partly, it's because while Abigail and Caleb hit it off immediately, Phillip and his love interest have a more contentious start to their relationship. They also have a legit barrier standing in their way -- the fact that Phillip is technically in town to marry Abigail, and neither he nor his love interest wants to hurt Abigail's feelings. And finally, the secondary heroine's backstory is more complicated, with present-day implications that make her understandably reluctant to pursue a romantic relationship. In contrast, Abigail's tragic backstory, about her guilt over the death of a childhood bully, doesn't seem as big a barrier.
Full review on my blog: https://literarytreats.com/2022/02/08...
April 30, 2023
Blackberry Falls is a quaint community reminiscent of the land that time forgot because it seems like a magical place, especially with the introduction of the mysterious character Birchbark who is definitely more than he appears. While the story is mostly lighthearted and flirtatious it also tackles the subject of domestic abuse in a very realistic way. As Abigail tries to decide between her two mail order grooms the flirtation between her and Caleb is very appealing while her sister Mercy is drawn to quiet farmer Phillip who is great with her 14 year old son. A satisfying dual romance and an entertaining community of characters make this an appealing read.
May 30, 2022
Courting Caleb is a sweet Amish romance. Abigail Mast is looking for a beau, so she decides to send out an advertisement for a mail order groom. Imagine her surprise when not one, but two men show up at her door. Abigail has to date both of them to see who is the better match.
This is the second book in The Amish Mail Order Groom series. This can be read as a stand alone book, but I think you will enjoy the first book as well.
I want to thank Kelly Long, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
This is the second book in The Amish Mail Order Groom series. This can be read as a stand alone book, but I think you will enjoy the first book as well.
I want to thank Kelly Long, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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