| Title | : | Autumn Winds (Seasons of the Heart #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1420121707 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781420121704 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Mass Market Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 324 |
| Publication | : | First published January 1, 2012 |
Perhaps she could find love again - if only there weren't so many obstacles in the way. With Bishop Knepp relentlessly pursuing her hand in marriage and the fate of her beloved cafe at stake, Miriam must listen to God and her heart to find the happiness she longs for, and the love she deserves.
Autumn Winds (Seasons of the Heart #2) Reviews
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I will admit that when I read the first book in this series, I liked it, but I probably was not enthralled. At that point, I was fairly new to Amish fiction, and some of it just didn't resonate with me. It was good, but not the best. And you know how first books in the series can be.
This second book in the series is an absolute masterpiece! I was so glad I read the first in the series because as I began to read this book, it was like visiting with old friends. I knew the characters, and I absolutely loved them! This was one of the easiest reads for me in a while, and it spoke to me on so many levels.
First of all, I was intrigued by the information on the Amish. I spent a lot of time looking up information on the Amish because I found I knew little about them. It was neat to see that what Charlotte Hubbard was writing about was true! I knew it was--it was clear she knew what she was talking about. But I am one of those people who likes to verify things even so. I always check and double check things on regular basis.
Secondly, the romance was absolutely breathtaking! There was no "sappiness" in this book at all. That is often my complaint with "romances." This book's romance will send chills through your spine and almost have you in tears as you whisper, "How sweet!" (Okay, maybe you won't react exactly like I did, but I like to think you would!) I love the fact that the author dealt with love and romance at ages other than teenagers and 20-somethings. The fact that Miriam could seek for love at the age of 40 actually gives me hope (since I'm only two years away from that myself).
The humor in the book was absolutely fantastic! Lately it seems that the books I read have very sorry attempts at humor or none at all. This book has some fantastic scenes that will surprise and delight you. Many of the moments of humor are unforeseen which makes them even funnier!
And finally, the wonderful message of God's love and salvation are strong and real in this book. So often, Christian books are either nominally Christian or beat you over the head with the gospel. This book is real in the way it presents God. I could never be an Amish girl, and I don't agree with everything that they believe about the world and the right way to live, but we don't disagree on the important points. Many times, God spoke to me through the faith of Miriam, Ben, and Rhoda. I was reminded that somehow God would work everything out for me just like He was for the characters in the book. And the bonus was that Bishop Hiram got what was coming to him. God takes care of those kinds of issues, too.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough to everyone. It is a clean romance in every sense of the word, and it will uplift your spirits (and don't we all need that during this season?).
I was sent a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine. -
I have read this on the Kindle
I read this which is the 2nd in the series, I thought this is a great read i was hooked the Characters in this you can love all except one you want the Bishop to really get his come uppers as he one you really don't take to
The Author has not just written a normal Amish series as the Bishop is not nice & seems to want his own way until Ben Hooley's come with his 2 brothers well the Bishop gets taken down a peg or two not sure what will happen in the next book
There is also a Christmas book due out October 2013 which i have already pre-ordered so it shows that i am really want to read the series -
My Review:
When was the last time you read a book where you just smiled a lot while reading? This is how it was last weekend when I read Autumn Winds. This is the second book in the series. It continues the story of the Lantz family, but this time the spotlight is on the mom, Miriam.We follow along as she meets the handsome Ben Hooley who precedes to court her, despite Bishop Knepps never ending attempts at forcing her to marry him. We also get to see the continuing romance of Rachel Lantz and Micah Brennemen which started in the first book.
Things I loved:
-I loved the interaction between Miriam and Ben. It was sweet and real. The attraction was so strong, without unnecessary sex.(Why can't the world leave that in the bedroom where it belongs?)
-I love how Charlotte Hubbard writes a strong woman, even if she is Amish.
-I appreciate reading a romance with people that are older than 30. Miriam is 40 and Ben is 35. It is refreshing to read about older people finding romance. As an older woman,(in my 40's) it makes for a good read.
-The story again takes place in the Sweet Seasons Bakery. Oh wow! The food that they make and eat in this book are unbelievable! The best part is that Charlotte has included the recipes at the back of the book. Some of them I'm excited to try are...
Pumpkin Blueberry Muffins
Apple Walnut Coffee Cake
Whole Wheat Banana Bread
Overnight Sensation Salad
English Muffin Bread and
Turkey Cheese Chowder
-My favorite part of the book is the humbling that takes place by one of the most pompous males in the book. I actually cheered out-loud to see this take place.
The Seasons of the Heart series is becoming one of my favorite Amish series. As I have stated before, I have always loved Beverley Lewis's Amish stories, but Charlotte has become my favorite new author of this genre. If you are looking for a clean romance, strong characters and a happy ending, this book and series is for you. -
I recently started reading Charlotte Hubbard and so happy that I found her work. Autumn Winds is book 2 in Seasons of the Heart Series. If you read for pure enjoyment this is the series to grab. The Characters are the wonderful with great personalities. Each one is well developed to the point to can imagine going to visit Miriam in Willow Ridge and her bakery/café Sweet Seasons. Miriam and her triplet daughters are the focus of the book 2 brings us the budding romance between the handsome traveling Amish farrier. Ms. Hubbard is a master at bringing the entire district to life and each has a bit of the storyline. Hiram is a cantankerous Bishop with his sights set on Miriam and she handles him so wonderfully - I wish I would have thought of that!!!! Reading this book it bring Humility to the front and center and how important it is in our life. Ben Hooley our handsome farrier and his family are a great surprise to the story and show such love for family. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I am sure you will too.
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Just finished "Autumn Winds" by Charlotte Hubbard. And it gets 5 stars from me.This is the 2nd story in Seasons of the Heart series and I liked it better than the first " Summer Of Secrets" In this book the bishop is stilling trying to get Miriam to marry him. A storm brings a new man, Ben. into the town and into Miriam's restaurant/bakery and Miriam falls fast for him. Ben wants to build a mill in the town. Micah and Rachel get married.The bishop also tries to hide that he has a website with his picture on it and has a car and has been driving it. Can a bishop be banned? This book also has recipes in the book for the food that is served at the restaurant. I hope this story continues in a new book.
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I thought this was a very good book. I didn't want to put it down when I started reading it.
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Loved the humor and the romance. What a sweet story, with characters who deserved a happy ending.
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He blew in with the storm.
Miriam Lantz scurried inside and grabbed s sturdy chair from the nearest table. Part of her wanted to call the Brenneman boys - her Rachel's finace', Micah, would be here in two shakes of a tail - yet she craved some time alone with this stranger. She told herself she was giving him a chance to recover before anyone else saw him in this sorry state -
"If ya don't mind my drippin' on your floor, I'll just rest here for a few."
Miriaim jumped. Why wasn't she surprised that the man had already stood himself up and come in without her help? He eased into the chair she'd pulled up.
"I'd ask what ya were doin' here at this crazy hour, in the pitch dark," he murmured as he looked around, "but I guess that's none of my business. I've got to tell ya, though, it smells so gut I must've passed through the pearly gate and into heaven."
Miriam laughed again in spire of her agitated state, "I'm bakin' pies and decoratin' cakes for the bishop's surprise party tomorrow. Gettin' the day's breakfast and lunch started too," she replied. "Welcome to the Sweet Seasons Bakery Cafe'..."
And that's how quickly Miriam Lantz life had changed with the latest storm. Was God perhaps giving her a sign that He had plans for her. Plans to include something other than being the object of Bishop Hiram Knepps design for a future wife and mother of his children? Was God perhaps bringing her hope in the form of Ben Hooley, a traveling blacksmith in search of a place to call home and set up shop?
In the latest novel by Charlotte Hubbard, Autumn Winds is the second book in the Seasons of the Heart Series and picks up right where the Summer of Secrets left off. We see that Miriam is still running the bakery while her daughter Rachel is making plans to marrying Micah. Her remaining daughter Rhoda has plans set on making the newcomer her husband. Even though he is a few years older than her, Rhoda vows to go to any lengths to make sure that Ben Hooley feels right at home, offering to make him his favorite foods as he sets up his blacksmith operation where Miriam's husband, Jesse used to work. Now that she is widowed, she offers the operation to Ben in hopes he might stay, but not to make a future wife for Rhoda, because sparks are already flying between Miriam and Ben.
Bishop Hiram Knepp will go to great lengths to ensure that Miriam becomes his wife, even announcing it in front of the whole community during his birthday celebration as his wish. Will Miriam be forced into a marriage of convenience with Bishop Knepp or will Miriam find happiness in the Autumn Winds with Ben?
I received Autumn Winds compliments of Kensington Books and Pump Up Your Book Tours for my honest review. Charlotte once again delights her readers with some unusual circumstances of being involved in the middle of two men who want to marry her, one for all the wrong reasons and the other for all the right ones. Miriam's biggest obstacle is doing what is right according to her faith while struggling with what her heart wants. She is always putting others needs before her own and at some point she has to realize that happiness and love is waiting for her to simply be willing to take a chance. How will she find a way to keep everyone happy while she searches for her own happiness at the same time? You'll have to read this one to see how it all turns out. There is a sweet surprise at the ending, lots of delicious recipes straight from Miriam's Sweet Seasons Bakery and Cafe. I can't wait to try these myself. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars. -
I've been anxiously awaiting the sequel to Summer of Secrets, and this book was worth the wait. A few matters that were left unfinished in the previous book are accounted for here, such as Rachel and Micah's wedding, and the humbling of Bishop Hiram's brash behavior. The introduction of several new characters, such as Ben's two maidel aunts, served to add color to the community of Willow Ridge and even added a dash of humor to the several romance-heavy sub-plots.
I thoroughly enjoyed following along in the lives of Miriam Lantz and her daughters, especially when reading about all of the mouth-watering food that the Sweet Seasons Bakery and Cafe served up everyday. I plan on trying out of a few of the recipes in the back of the book, and I was pleasantly surprised to find a bread recipe that I've tried among those listed.
The background of Amish culture I have also continued to find fascinating, as I learned more of the nuances in speech, behavior, and traditional beliefs. While I find some things too restrictive, such as the clothing and lack of electricity, the adherence to gender roles, the respect they give to one another, their beliefs in the Bible, and their use of wholesome and naturally-grown foods are all things I greatly admire. This book only serves to bring it all to life and make it that much more appealing. I look forward to reading more of this series. -
"Autumn Winds" is the second book in the "Seasons of the Heart" series from author Charlotte Hubbard. In the picturesque Amish community of Willow Ridge, Missouri, widowed Miriam Lantz operates the Sweet Seasons Bakery Cafe, where the food is seasoned with heaping helpings of love and faith. During an Autumn storm, the winds of fate bring an injured stranger to Miriam's door, and life will never be the same for the widow Lantz. Ben Hooley, a traveling blacksmith, is hurt by his horse when it is startled during the turbulent storm. Miriam assists him, allowing him inside the bakery to recover. But will Miriam recover from the effect Ben has on her heart? He's a little younger than she is, and she never thought she would feel this way again, but there's a higher power guiding this romance. Ben is immediately smitten with Miriam, finding her the sweetest of the sweets in the sweet shop. Complicating matters for Miriam and Ben are her triplet daughters and a bothersome bishop in hot pursuit of Miriam's hand in marriage. Written with warmly inviting charm, "Autumn Winds" serves up food for thought and also feeds the romance lover's soul. As an added extra treat for readers, there is a downright delicious bonus recipe section included in the book. Recommended!
Review Copy Gratis Library Thing -
Faith and Love can weather any storm…
As much as I LOVED the first book, I can honestly say I LOVE this one more!
In book one, we met Miriam, a widow who was being pursued but didn’t want to be married again; she was happy with her life. But in book two, Ben Hooley comes to Willow Ridge—and captures Miriam’s eye. Will she change her mind about marrying again? Well, that’s a good question. And you’ll find the answers in the book.
There are a lot of twists and turns going on in this book—especially concerning Bishop Knepp—but you’ll have to read the book to find out just what he’s up to... I hate spoilers so I won’t be giving anything away in this review.
Charlotte is an expert at creating 3-dimensional characters who follow the rules of the church, but don’t mind bending them a bit at times. I guess what I’m saying is that they seem much more “human” and I’d love to meet people such as these in Willow Ridge.
As far as romance, it is handled tastefully and the problems Miriam encounters—especially with Bishop Knepp—are surprisingly, but believable. Of course, I wanted to smack the bishop… more than once!
God’s presence, his guidance, and his love, is very evident in the story. I love how much Ben and Miriam pray about situations—and people—looking to God for the answers.
I whole-heartedly encourage you to ready the Seasons of the Heart series! -
In the second book of the Seasons of the Heart series, Hubbard picks up where she left off with the lives of the Plain folk from Willow Ridge, Missouri. Miriam is preparing for her daughter, Rachel's wedding to Micah, the son of her business partner, Naomi Brenneman. She's not looking for love, but when Ben Hooley blows in with the storm, she feels an instant connection to him. Their friendship and developing romance is hampered by her connection to the past and her fear over the fate of her beloved cafe. Bishop Knepp, who began pursuing her in the first book, refuses to take no for an answer. He has his cap set for Miriam and he'll do anything to have her for his wife.
With Autumn Winds, Hubbard has created an inspirational story filled with characters you're bound to love and relate to. More than just a romance between a widow and a newcomer, the residents of Willow Ridge will truly capture your heart. Hubbard's masterful storytelling blends with a well-developed plot and superbly drawn characters to create a story that will become a quick favorite for lovers of the genre. While definitely a stand alone novel, much can be gained by reading, Summer of Secrets, the first book in the series, along with this one. Just like the first book, the reader will be treated to many scrumptious recipes at the end of the story. -
Ok another official announcement….I love Amish romance. I love the way the romance develops slowly and without all the fan fair of sex. That is saved for marriage and the books may marry off the characters, but you never follow them into their bedroom. These stories are sweet and enjoyable to read. I love the anticipation build up for the first kiss and nothing more. If you love romance but get sick of all the graphic sex, then this is for you.
This romance centers around a widowed mother of three who is having a difficult time with a suitor she is not interested in. Well the wind blows a man a few years younger who she finds very attractive and interesting. She helps him and he helps her and magic helps them both in the way of love. I love Miriam and her reliance on the Lord and what he wants for her and her family. She is a strong independent woman who will do what she thinks is best but only after she consults one to one with God.
This story unfolds slowly, yet with enough anticipation to keep you reading and wondering if everyone is going to make it to their Happily Ever After. If you love romance you will love these tales of innocents and love. Try one and I think you will be surprised by how much you enjoy a book without so much sex and smut. I was. -
Miriam Lantz has been making it on her own since her husband Jesse passed away. The success of her bakery has not met with the approval of Bishop Knepp, who thinks that Miriam's place is in his kitchen. When Ben Hooley comes to town, the Bishop has a rival, and Miriam has to decide if anyone can ever measure up to Jesse.
Amish novels are my guilty pleasure. They usually do not contain a complicated plot, but in the hands of a gifted author, they can be an entertaining and educational novel. I am happy to say that this is the case with Charlotte Hubbard, aka Naomi King. She knows her subject well, and has written enough Christian romances to know the formula. It's a nice, decent story with a sufficient amount of suspense. Definitely 4 stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Pump Up Your Book book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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What a wonderful read. I wanted to start baking and become one of Miriam's family. This is the second book in this story, and I have not read the first...sure want to now. You do not have to read the first book to enjoy this one, enough information is provided to let you know what happened.
Miriam has triplets that are 21, and one, Rachael is getting married. She also owns Sweet Season's Bakery, where she is early one morning when Ben Hooley literally drops in.
Ben brings so much love of family into this story. He brings his brothers from PA and his delightful Maiden Aunts...Jerusalem and Nazareth. Be ready for a beautiful and loving journey with this family.
Bishop Knepp is in for quite a ride here, he wants Miriam for his wife. He is quite persistent is his desires. He seems to rule with an iron hand. Love how he is about to meet his match in this story! Yeah!
You will not be disappointed in how this story unfolds, and will not want to put it down. A really wonderful, Christian read!
As an additional treat, many of the mouth watering dishes that are mentioned have recipes included at the end of the book.
I received this book through Pump Your Book Virtual Tours, and Net Galley, and was not required to give a positive review. -
Autumn Winds - A Gut Story Of Love!
Charlotte Hubbard has done it again. She writes a story line so captivating that you don’t want to put the book down. Her first Seasons of the Heart book, Summer of Secrets, was a fantastic read; Autumn Winds went even beyond a fantastic read. I loved it! I am hoping there will be a third book. I need to know what happens to Miriam and Ben. Will Rachel and Micah continue to be happy and will there be children in their future? What about Rhoda? Will she find her one and only? And the English sister Rebecca, there’s a complete story there somewhere!
Will the pesky bishop Hiram finally leave Miriam alone? There are so many characters this author could write about that we, the readers, would love to see happen. In other words, we want more!
This book was filled with love, laughter, romance and some trials. I even found myself shedding a few tears. This book ended all too soon for me. I wanted the story to go on.
I won this book on LibraryThing and was sent a copy of it to read and review from Kensington Publishers. Thank you both for a wonderful read. The opinions expressed in this review are mine alone. -
I am really enjoying this series and am looking forward to reading the next book, though it's kind of sad that I have to wait for it. I liked how this book focused more on Miriam, the mother from the previous book, and not on one of her other daughters. Bishop Knepp drove me crazy in this book, I couldn't believe the way he behaved! There is one thing that annoyed me, Overall, I would recommend this to fans of Amish fiction, and even though I think the books can be read separately, I would suggest that you read the first book before reading this one as there are key things that are uncovered that are surprising that obviously wouldn't surprise you if you read this one first.
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This is the first book I've read by this author but I have read books by her other writing name . of, Naomi King and enjoyed them all. I enjoyed this book a lot but there are some things that happened in the book that seem pretty unrealistic but actually maybe they are not realistic at all . I think it just goes to show that no matter who we are we all are human and have our shortcomings but through God's grace can find forgiveness.
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This is book 2 of a series that I am really enjoying. The characters are well-developed and enjoyable to get to know, and I especially appreciate that they actually communicate with one another. In a lot of other Amish fiction, the entire plot is built on lack of communication, and I've gotten tired of that so this series has been a breath of fresh air in that regard.
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I enjoyed reading this book. I thought Charlotte's writing was very good. I loved her characters and the way they were written. This was a book club book and I can't wait to see what the club thought. I loved the main character as someone I would like to know. I'd like to know what happens to her and Ben. Very quick read.
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2nd book in series
Story of an Amish widow and her family. She runs a wonderful cafe and bakery. When a new man comes to town, her world gets turned on it's head.
If the story isn't good enough, the recipes in the back certainly look wonderful!!! But, the story is good and the characters are rich and full of life.
Now looking forward to book 3! -
Loved this book too! Love how Mariam and Ben are going to be together and share their future with each other! Can't wait until the next book in this series comes out so we can continue with their lives!
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This book was awesome hated to have it end. I love reading about the Amish and their ways and they are just like the rest of us not different like others think. I also loved the recipes in the back of the book. Already made the Pumpkin Blueberry Muffins and they were delicious.
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This is the second book in the Season of hearts by Charlotte Hubbard. It is a continuation of the first book. Still that Bishop Hiram Knepp doesn't get the hint to leave Miriam alone, NO means NO dude lol. But i really enjoyed this second part also, will try and finish up this series.
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Great series!
I am really enjoying this Amish series. It feels to me like you a get a real sense of Amish life within their districts and the control a bishop can have over a district. Seems to be written with an Amish person's perspective not just a novel.
