| Title | : | Courting Cate (The Courtships of Lancaster County, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0764210319 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780764210310 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 348 |
| Publication | : | First published November 1, 2012 |
In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!
But the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor--until Pete Treger comes to town, that is.
Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate's hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?
Courting Cate (The Courtships of Lancaster County, #1) Reviews
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this was my first amish novel and probably my last. it was fascinating to absorb their way of life and culture, but i'm feeling so overwhelmed by my feelings of disappointment after just having finished the novel that i can't even ... i want to write a decent review but i don't know if i can.
alright. imma try anyway. let's start from the very beginning. sometime last year i was just innocently browsing the internet while on my phone in class, as one does. i'd just gotten back from the stratford festival and had extensively googled the heck out of "amish," after having passed through and near many mennonite settlements in southern ontario. i also spend a ton of time reading, looking up, talking about, and basically just googling romance novels (which is no surprise to anyone looking at my goodreads shelves, ha). so when google ads popped up with a promotion for "amish romance novels!" the hyper-paranoid in me instantly jumped to the conclusion that google was spying on me and had thus made up a genre that they knew would pique my interest and this was a trick!!!
fast forward to about a week ago, when i was browsing the popular/recommended shelves at my local library and ran into a whole bunch of actual amish romance novels. i mean... what?? it's a thing??? yes!!!! so that is how i ended up borrowing this book and just generally being very excited about reading it and hopefully exploring a genre of novels that seemed fascinating and intriguing and amazing.
but now that i've actually read it, i think it's safe to say that i (me, personally, just one person) am probably just not cut out to read anything in this genre. maybe i should give a few other books a chance before i write the entire category off, but i should probably explain what about it disappointed my super high, super excited expectations first.
it was important that this book was set in an amish society, but at the same time, it's still a heterosexual romance novel. it's going to follow a set storyline -- girl meets boy, boy seems like a dick, boy seems nice after all, girl falls for boy, wait nope boy is still a dick, girl finds herself tied to the boy for x and y reasons, girl falls in love with boy again, girl and boy confess their love to each other and live happily ever after.
the beginning of this book set the stage for each of these points beautifully. i was definitely a fan of the main character -- she was atypical, and she was (mostly) okay with that. she was okay with being different, because she had business & books as passions to keep her sane. sure, she wasn't happy, and the author actually did a pretty good job of depicting her repressed resentfulness and jealousy, but she had a strong sense of self and a general sense of contentment with her own personal values, which didn't necessarily need to measure up to anyone else's.
guess what happens by the end of the book? she learns to be a good wife! she's good at cooking and cleaning now! she loves her husband and she has a husband who loves her and they're going to make babies! she's easier to deal with now, guys! she's not a shrew anymore! the bullies give her their stamp of approval and she's happy for that and everything is gravy!
the rest of the character types were depicted surely and leadingly in the beginning, too, but those all pretty much fizzled out by the end as well.
the sister was a spoiled brat, and the reader spends the rest of the book waiting for her comeuppance (spoiler alert: THIS NEVER HAPPENS. SPOILED BRAT STAYS AN UNREPENTANT SPOILED BRAT. main character lacks the lady ovaries to stand up to the spoiled brat until the very end, and even that was disappointingly anticlimactic and unsatisfying considering how much shit she went through for her).
the father was a hard-nosed man, driven by amish principles and a hyper-awareness of his reputation. he was kind of a dick and clearly favoured one sister over the other, but by the end not only does he not have to answer to that, his character does a complete about-face and this entire story was basically for nothing. i mean, if it had been that easy to get him to actually care about his daughter's happiness in the first place, none of this would ever have happened.
let's not even get started on the male love interest. i have about 100000 words ready at any given moment on my complete hatred of the Uncommunicative Male Hero archetype, especially when it leads to a shitload of mental anguish for the poor girl who finds herself in love with him despite (or probably because of) it... but i shan't waste any of those words on this guy. let's just say i was thoroughly unimpressed by their reconciliation at the end of the novel. it's just so romantic to read that he was playing mind games and exercising "reverse psychology" on her throughout the latter half of the novel.
this book isn't HORRIBLE. in fact, it's written quite well, and i was compelled enough to want to keep reading until the end. it's just that halfway through the book, my outlook had morphed from "i'm into it, let's find out how this ends hehe" to "really? really? that's what's happening? really? oh wait, REALLY? THAT'S WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW?" sort of like reading the equivalent of a trainwreck -- it started out with so much promise, but then ??? what happened???
so this rating is completely coloured by the fact that i can't help but feel super disappointed about all the things i wish this novel was. that's probably something others aren't necessarily going to agree with me on, but as a first-time reader of amish romance novels and probably just being unfamiliar with the culture driving the world in the books, i can't say that i'd be in a hurry to recommend this novel to anyone else who isn't already a fan of this genre.
let's chalk it up to philosophical differences. i was fine with the independence, self-sufficiency, and domestic ineptitude exhibited by the heroine in the beginning, and didn't take kindly to having them swapped out by the end of the novel for more traditional values. i certainly don't have a problem with any of those traditional values -- i just wasn't expecting them and as a result, i feel mildly conned. there were also a few instances where i felt preached to (the scene where the heroine gets all judgey mcjudgerson about the englisch lady who wore "skimpy" clothing and tried to use her feminine wiles to entrap/confuse the poor amish men into giving her better customer service, or something? uh huh).
in conclusion, this book was probably really good if you're already a fan of amish romance novels. i wasn't, and the book that i finished reading was not at all the book i had expected when i first started on it. sometimes surprises and twists are good, especially in romance novels, where the same tropes get trotted out over and over again, but that definitely was not the case in this book. a weak and hastily thrown together ending only further served to contrast the carefully set up introductory half of the novel. -
In Paradise, Pennsylvania 23-year-old Amish beauty, Cate Miller remains single and the talk of her community. Referred to as a shrew because of her irritable and stubborn nature, Cate has lost all hope of finding a husband. Her quick tongue, stubborn attitude and lack of proper domestic skills has turned every young bachelor against her. She would rather spend her free time reading books or working for her father than spending time cooking, cleaning, or in the sewing room. For Cate the only eligible bachelors appear to be middle-aged widowers with several children. Cate raised her 17-year-old sister since the age of 2 days when her mother died, and isn't interested in raising someone else's children. She prefers to remain single rather than marrying an older man and taking on the duties of an already established household and family. Her beautiful and flirtatious sister Betsy, has every young bachelor in Lancaster County looking to court her, but Cate's father draws the line and insists that Cate must marry before Betsy can continue to court. This edict is preposterous to both daughters. Betsy will do whatever she can to be courted by handsome bachelor, Levi Rupp, including deceiving her sister.
Pete Treger, a young Amish man in his mid-twenties and a questionable past, comes to visit Paradise looking for Bob Miller, in the hope of finding a job, and eventually a wife. He aspires to start his own business in the future. He demonstrates a stubbornness all his own, and when forced together as Pete works for her father, Cate bristles. The only things they have in common are the love of reading and their obstinacy. Betsy, her father, and her friends attempt to get Pete and Cate together in the hope that they will begin courting and marry so that Betsy can continue courting and ultimately marry Levi.
Leslie Gould provides a high level of entertainment in this creative story about a high-strung young Amish woman and her flirtatious younger sister. There is nothing predictable about this Amish taming of the shrew. It's definitely a page-turner. The characters in this captivating story are so well defined they could well be people you know. I thoroughly enjoyed this first in the series of the The Courtships of Lancaster County, and look forward to the next in the series. This was a fast-paced and action packed book. I loved it and highly recommend it to anyone who loves Amish fiction.
This book was provided by Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group for the sole purpose of promoting this title and writing my own personal review. The opinions stated in this review are my own. -
Courting Cate by Leslie Gould
A story about sisters Cate and Betsy...
Cate was around 6 yrs old when Betsy was born and her Mother died shortly after, Cate always felt like she should take care of Betsy and even as a young child she took her job seriously helping out much with her Grandmothers help at first and then later taking full responsibility raising and loving this young sister. Many times the sister's wishes were taken care of before her own and Betsy come to rely on Cate.
Cate so sweet to a sister though, was not known in her community as anything but a shrew-no boyfriend stayed for long and many teased her at school growing up til she decided she was unlovable.
Cate was approaching the spinster life when Pete Treger came to their area looking for work and a wife-so he said. Cate just knew he would look at Betsy, sweet pretty Betsy. She was amazed and a little confused when he turned to her with pretty words and ask her to go hiking with him.
Cate just knows the men of the area that always teased her has set her up for a fall so she reluctantly goes with Pete and to her amazement finds she likes this young man and begins to thaw around him.
I enjoyed reading this book given to me by Bethany house for a review and know you will love the characters of Cate&Pete as you watch their courtship and how they come to find one another after much bickering in their love-hate relationship....which will win? -
I thought the setting and the writing of this book were wonderful--so interesting!--and while Gould was occasionally wordy and repetitive, I felt like she had a really good voice and narration throughout and that she gave great insight into Amish life and culture and tradition without going overboard on description passages. The story itself was also good, though The Taming of the Shrew isn't my favorite Shakespeare play. The part I struggled with were the characters, probably everyone except for Cate, Nan, and Pete's parents, all of whom were just themselves, no manipulations or being anyone but themselves. I didn't really feel like Cate was much of a shrew; most of her frustrations and outbursts seemed pretty reasonable to me, especially with the awful way everyone treated her, not just those who bullied her but also her father's complete unreasonableness, her sister's incredible selfishness, and Pete's silence. These were the people who were supposed to love her the most, and yet they were the ones who humiliated her, manipulated her, and hurt her the worst, hands down. I know this is a Christian book, and Christians believe very strongly in forgiveness and not holding grudges, but for Betsy especially to have no comeuppance at all other than a very, very gentle scolding left me feeling sick. Not even any spiritual ramifications, when her behavior was so unkind, selfish, and even malicious throughout. And I wish so much this hadn't been in first person; I think it would have made for such a richer story in third, told from both Cate and Pete's perspective, where the reader can fall for Pete and be cheering for him from the beginning, not just the last quarter of the book, because they understand him and his motivations with a clarity that Cate, through her suspicion and hurt, doesn't have in the slightest.
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I enjoyed the premise of Courting Cate being a take-off of The Taming of the Shrew. I liked that they were a little more "modern" than most Amish because of their business (I've often wondered if allowances were made sometimes in the Amish community because of that). I liked the way Cate softens by serving in a very difficult situation.
However, I did NOT like how wordy the author was throughout the book. Sometimes, in her attempt to explain the Amish way of life, etc., she went overboard. For example, during the kayak outing, as part of the details of getting into the kayak, she wrote, "I quickly slid my free hand down the back of my skirt and tucked the length of it under my legs as I sat, covering the seat." And then she repeats that 2 pages later. Not necessarily a bad thing but add that with other similar sentences, and it bogged down the story... at least, in my opinion. I didn't like how quickly the decision was made with Pete and Cate before checking all the facts... though, the author may have thought that was the only way to get them from point A to point B (trying not to give spoilers - lol). For being such a wonderful homemaker-type, Betsy was just a spoiled brat. I could not believe how she treated Cate and Cate let her... though I guess as a parent, I understand that we allow things and attitudes we really shouldn't. I also didn't like Pete's reason for his behavior with then no explanation for his thoughts during that time.
I really wanted to like this book more than I did but although I was annoyed with a few things, I gave it 3 stars because I still think it's a good book. I'll be reading the next one to see if it gets any better. :-) -
I have always loved Taming of the Shrew and Amish fiction. So when I found a book that combined both of them I was SO excited!
Taming of the Shrew is my favorite Shakespearean work. I have always felt a connection to the character Kate, and the same is with Leslie's rendition. Actually I loved Courting Cate even more than Taming of the Shrew, because it is written in Cate's perspective. The kinship I have always felt with Cate grew by leaps and bounds while reading her thoughts and feelings. Leslie has made it onto my favorite authors list and Courting Cate has made onto my FAVORITE books list! This is a fabulous story, told in a beautiful way. The pace is set with NO lulls and FULL of great scenes; and a few twists! I didn't want to put this book down and I read way past/or right to midnight on more than one night before making myself go to sleep. Then I picked it back up and read through out the day!!! Every emotion resonated within my chest as I read through everything Cate and Pete goes through, because Leslie writes in such an emotional way. Courting Cate shows you that if you find God's love first; other loves are truer and stronger. This is a MUST READ!!! Wonderful, simply wonderful!
My songs are: "Be Be Your Love" by Rachael Yamagata, "Pass Me Not" by The Cluster Pluckers, and "Kiss Me" by Sixpence None The Richer (love this song for this book because it reminds me of "KISS ME KATE!" :) )
Esther
~ASC -
I can not say enough great things about Leslie Gould's Courting Cate. This was a fun and new sort of take on Amish fiction. I loved Cate and her spunky attitude. I just knew that she and Pete were meant to be together from their first awkward meeting. I did not feel so generous towards Pete's mamm, Esther, however. She grated on my nerves and irritated me to no end. But Cate handled that relationship in a unique and gracious manner also. Grab a hot cup of coffee and maybe even a piece of vinegar pie and get to know Cate and her family. I finished the book feeling hopeful and encouraged about relationships in general. I love it when you finish a book feeling that all is right in the world because of the special new friends you have met between the pages of paper.
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This was my first time reading this author and I enjoyed it more than I expected to. I really felt the story was very accurate to Shakespeare's Taming the Shrew, but with younger characters. The book is filled with misunderstandings and hurts that do eventually get healed, but I was hoping the story would have more humor than it did. Also, the younger sister, Betsy, although very sweet, really annoyed me with her selfish ways. I'm glad Cate forgave her, but I had difficulty liking Betsy in this story. An overall cute story and I truly loved Cate in her personality, her love for books, her dedication to family (both hers and to Pete's), and especially her heart.
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I liked learning about Amish life, but I had a hard time liking the characters. It may just be me rather than the author, but I really disliked Betsey and I thought the community came across as both extremely judgemental, even beyond what I would expect of their people, but also unpredictable and unfair. That made me not sure I could trust the author to deliver the story.
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Great read that made me really analyze what the female lead was feeling. I love books that make me think! 4.5 stars
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This is a new telling of The taming of the Shrew. Likable characters and very clean romance.
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This reminded me of an Amish twisted Taming of the Shrew....
The younger sister while not a major character, was still a spoiled one... -
GENRE: AMISH ROMANCE
PUBLISHER: BETHANY HOUSE
PUBLICATION DATE: NOVEMBER 01, 2012
RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 – EXCELLENT
PROS: Unique concept; Shakespearean play converted well to the Amish setting; first person point-of-view worked well; more of a story of self-discovery than a straight-forward romance
CONS: A couple of elements towards the end of the novel were concluded too easily and felt rushed
Having once been hurt by a man who wanted her money more than he wanted her love, Cate Miller has sworn off courting. Cate prefers reading and working in her father’s business to cooking and cleaning, which is more the domain of her younger sister, Betsy. Attracting suitors from far across their Amish community, Betsy wants nothing more than to settle down and have a family of her own. But their father is concerned that Betsy is too young to be getting married, so he sets an ultimatum: Betsy can’t attend singings or court until Cate does. As much as she hates singings, Cate doesn’t want to hold her sister back from achieving happiness, so she reluctantly agrees to her father’s rule.
Despite how tightly she’s been guarding her heart, Cate can’t help but be intrigued by the newcomer to Paradise Township, Pete Treger. He finds a kindred spirit in Cate through their mutual love of reading, but Cate worries that he might only be showing an interest in her because of Betsy. Indeed, a few overheard conversations between Pete and some of Betsy’s suitors suggest that they may be persuading Pete to spend time with Cate to get them closer to Betsy. But when Betsy reveals a secret that threatens to devastate their father, Cate has all the more reason to consider courting Pete. Is a lifetime of convenience worth the happiness of Cate’s younger sister?
I’ve got to come clean here: although I’m studying English at one of the best universities in the UK, I’ve never read The Taming of the Shrew. My entire knowledge of this play stems from the film Ten Things I Hate About You and an old episode of Moonlighting in which the characters put on a performance of the play (I actually had to Google this to be certain that I didn’t make it up, but IMDB ensures that this episode does exist!) I can’t vouch for how well Courting Cate matches up with the original Shakespearean play, but I do love the concept Leslie Gould has chosen for her Courtships of Lancaster County series. We’ve had Amish vampires, angels and presidents, as well as murder mysteries and science fiction—why not try to adapt a Shakespeare play into an Amish setting?
I was unsure as to how well the plot of the play would convert to the modern-day Amish setting, but I think this is the one occasion where this story would work. A father demanding that one daughter marry before the other would seem ridiculous in any other setting, but it worked in an Amish family where the father does make all the rules. And in spite of his ultimatum, Cate and Betsy’s father isn’t the typical stern figure that you come across in Amish fiction, which made for a nice change. He truly cared about his daughters and wanted to do what was best for him, even if he struggled to raise them without the help of a wife.
Anyone who has read one of Leslie Gould’s previous Amish novels (such as The Amish Nanny or The Amish Bride) will recall that they were written in first-person, and didn’t switch between multiple perspectives. Courting Cate has the same narrative structure, which made it feel more like a story of self-discovery than a conventional romance. Never fear—there is plenty of romance in this book, and it does have a happy ending! You’d think that, being the hopeless romantic that I am, I’d miss the chance to get inside Pete’s head and figure out what makes him tick. But honestly? I was so immersed in Cate’s story that I didn’t have time to miss experiencing the story from another perspective. And although the first-person storytelling did make a nice change from the typical narrative of Amish novels, Courting Cate has enough of the standard tropes of Amish fiction that fans probably won’t mind the change.
As I said before, I don’t have a particularly strong knowledge of The Taming of the Shrew, but that isn’t essential to enjoying this novel. Although it was fun to pick up a few of the parallels to the original story, Cate’s tale is one that I imagine any woman can relate to. If you’ve experienced heartbreak, bullying or the ties of family loyalty, Cate won’t be hard to relate to. Although I don’t think I’m quite as stubborn as Cate, I could certainly understand her hesitance at getting close to someone after being bullied as a child and teenager.
But as impressed as I was that Courting Cate acknowledged the existence of bullying amongst the Amish, it did feel like this aspect of the story was glossed over and resolved a little too quickly. Although Cate is an adult at the start of the story, her sister’s friends still tease her and make fun of her, and it’s clear that she’s uncomfortable with this. But at the close of the story, everything is resolved with these characters. Personally, as a victim of bullying, I don’t think it would be that easy for Cate to put aside her hurt, no matter how strongly the Amish feel about forgiveness. As a recent article on bullying and the Church revealed, bullying leaves longer lasting scars than we’re willing to acknowledge. I think this aspect of the storyline was tidied up a little too easily. Likewise, the issues between Cate and her in-laws felt a bit swept under the rug. I know Cate realised that she’d misinterpreted her in-laws, and this is something I’m sure many of us do, but this part of the storyline occurred so fast that I didn’t entirely buy the changes in their relationship.
Despite my qualms about how a couple of storylines were wrapped up, I was genuinely impressed by Courting Cate. Although the Courtships of Lancaster County series is evidently going to be very different from the Amish novels Leslie co-authored with Mindy Starns Clark, I have a feeling that her new series is going to appeal to variety of Amish fans. Whether you’ve experienced bullying, heartbreak or in-law trouble, you’re sure to relate to Cate in some way.
Review title provided by Bethany House. -
This book was a solid 5 stars for me. This is my second Leslie Gould novel and she has surprised me both times. I do not read Amish fiction normally and I only read this one to fill a prompt for a reading challenge. I happened to have it on my shelf because my sisters gave it to me. Well, I'm gonna be keeping this book, along with the other book of hers that I liked called "Amish Promises".
I loved Cate from the beginning and I felt the same way about Pete. I could relate to Cate so much with having a mother who passed away and having to care for a younger sibling(s) and then having them make choices that you don't fully support. Then she gives up any chance for her own happiness because of the love she has for her sister and her Dad.
Pete was such a good man for her. There was a bit of a miscommunication trope going on, but I thought it was handled very well.
Overall, I loved this book. I will definitely be reading the next one in the series.
Oh, and Betsy is the worst, just saying. 😅 -
The Courtships of Lancaster County #1
BLURB: When this couple get to courting, sparks will fly!
In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!
But the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: Cate, as the oldest, must get married before Betsy can do so. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor - until Pete Tregor comes to town, that is.
Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cates's hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?.(From back of book)
REVIEW: Pete Treger who is an Amish farmer, moves to Paradise Township, Pennsylvania. He wants a better life and a wife. He meets two beautiful girls, Cate and Betsy Miller. Cate is known for her sharp tongue and speaking her mind. Betsy is sweet and pretty. She seems like she attracts every eligible bachelor around.
Since Cate isn't interested in getting married and Betsy can't wait, their Dawd has made a hard rule that Cate must marry before Betsy can even court. Cate doesn't have any bachelors after her which makes poor Betsy unhappy since there are so many bachelors wanting to court her. Pete thinks both sisters are pretty but there is something about Cate that appeals to him. Pete is convinced by the other bachelors to court Cate. She could care less about Pete, and goes out of her way to ignore him.
To me Cate has a strong will and is quite gutsy. If she doesn't want to do something, she doesn't do it. She has taken care of Betsy since she was a day old. She has had to be a mother instead of a child. Cate hides her emotions from everyone. She keeps them inside. She starts to care for Pete but she finds tricks in every move he makes towards her. Is it just her imagination or is he really just playing with her emotions and trying to get some of her Dawd's money? I think Cate grew into a more mature and soft woman. after she met Pete.
Cate was as extremely stubborn, but independent woman. She loved her community and her family.
Pete was a man you couldn't help but fall for. He was somewhat a free spirit.
Betsy was a spoiled brat, prim and proper, but underneath she could be a little brat. She may have had her cooking and cleaning skills down to a pat but she didn't have her people skills down. She thought that smiling pretty and making sweet talk was all it took. Boy was she wrong.
This story is so beautiful, maybe one of the best Amish books I've read. Cate is a woman all her own. But Pete slowly cuts into that tough exterior and begins to show Cate that life without love is NOTHING.
This is a don't put down books with pages turning as fast as you can. The descriptive scenes are wonderful. You can place yourself in Lancaster. The emotions that both Pete and Cate go through will either break your heart or put a smile on your face. Cate had a problem with love because she had lost God. Without God's love first and foremost, other loves can't come through. Cate loves to read and so does Pete. I think that reading is Cate's escape. The escape from her hurt and pain. Cate was an extremely stubborn, but independent woman. She loved her community and her family Pete was a man you couldn't help but fall for. He was somewhat a free spirit Betsy was a spoiled brat, prim and proper, but underneath she could be really manipulative. She may have had her cooking and cleaning skills down to a pat but she didn't have her people skills down. She thought that smiling pretty and making sweet talk was all it took. Boy was she wrong.
"With a gentle kick, I shut the door behind us."
(from the last page of the book.)
This complimentary print copy of COURTING CATE was given to me from Bethany House Publishing for this unbiased review.
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Leslie Gould in her new book, “Courting Cate” Book One in The Courtships of Lancaster County series published by Bethany House takes us into the life of Cate Miller.
From the back cover: When This Couple Gets to Courting, Sparks Will Fly!
In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!
But the sisters’ wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor–until Pete Treger comes to town, that is.
Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate’s hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?
William Shakespeare writes Amish fiction. Well, no, wait, that is not quite 100% accurate. In actuality Leslie Gould is writing the Amish fiction based on a play by Shakespeare. Either way, somehow, this story works. It just goes to show just how good a story writer Ms. Gould really is. Leslie Gould has an attention to details that help draw you into the story as well, of course, as her marvelous characters. Pete and Cate have a firecracker relationship that is presented in such a real manner that you feel as though they are friends of yours and when the book eventually ends you are sorry to see them go. “Courting Cate” deals with themes of healing of past hurts and restoration as only God can produce. I liked this book a lot.
Kindle Fire Giveaway from @LeslieGould! RSVP for Facebook Party {11/20}
A retelling of the Taming of the Shrew! Leslie Gould is celebrating the release of Courting Cate with a fun Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party (11/20)!
One lucky winner will receive:
A Kindle Fire
Courting Cate by Leslie Gould
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 19th. Winner will be announced at the “Courting Cate” Author Chat Facebook Party on 11/20. Connect with Leslie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at an Amish trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!
So grab your copy of Courting Cate and join Leslie on the evening of the November 20th for a chance to connect with Leslie and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. 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.” -
Cate Miller was seven years old when she sort of became a surrogate mother to her sister Betsy. Fast forward a few years Cate is 23 and Betsy is 17, and the two sisters are just about as different as can be. While Betsy likes to flirt and is the epitome of what the Amish bachelors in her area seem to be drawn to, Cate is totally opposite. She likes to read, doesn't cook very well, and has no problems speaking her mind. Really she isn't very interested in dating or marrying. Thing is her father sets his foot down and says that until Cate gets married, Betsy can't court. Things look sort of grim,who would ever court Cate, well when Pete Treger moves to town, it looks like someone might actually be showing an interest in her. Does Cate spurn Pete's attention, or will she finally meet her match?
Amish fiction is one of my favorite genre's to read so I was totally excited to find a new series by a new to me author. I really must say I wasn't disappointed. "Courting Cate" was filled with characters that drew me into the story, I could understand the plight of Betsy, but I also understood why Cate's father did what he did, he wanted Cate to find happiness. As the story progressed it was so easy to understand Cate's character. I enjoyed seeing her character grow and change as the story progressed. I thought Ms. Gould provided a few plot twists that made for a very realistic storyline.
"Courting Cate"is a great opening for The Courtships of Lancaster County Series.Great characters and a unique storyline made it a great read, that has me anticipating the next book in the series. Fans of Amish fiction will certainly enjoy this story, but I would also recommend it to anyone looking for an inspirational romance where the emotions run the gambit, there is humor, but also a serious undertone. Great characters, interesting plot and a satisfying ending made this a great read that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. -
Title: COURTING CATE
Author: Leslie Gould
Publisher: Bethany House
November 2012
ISBN: 978-0-7642-1031-0
Genre: Amish
Cate Miller has already run off all the men in Paradise, Pennsylvania with her sharp tongue and fiery temper. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted all the bachelors in Lancaster County.
But then, Cate’s wealthy father makes the humiliating announcement that Cate has to be courting before Betsy is allowed to court, and she must marry before Betsy marries. Cate has no interest in marriage. But she is forced to give in to her father’s demands and Betsy’s manipulative tears to allow some man to court her.
But who? Then Pete Treger comes to town. He, like all the others, seems to have eyes only for Betsy. But then the men of the area—all wanting Betsy—start prodding Pete in Cate’s direction. Is Pete only interested in Cate’s father’s money—or is he truly interested in the prickly—and rude—Cate?
COURTING CATE, book one in the Courtships of Lancaster County series is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Gould that she has written without Mindy Starns Clark, but she holds on to Mindy’s style, written in first person. I can’t admit to caring much for Cate in the story—she is a very unkind person—and Betsy is horribly manipulative. But Pete has an awesome sarcastic tongue, and he is the bookworm that Cate is, giving the two much to talk about in the way of books.
I kind of hoped Cate would turn into a softer, warmer individual, and that Pete’s supposed interest in Cate was real and not fueled by money, but as for whether there was a scheme at play or not, you’ll need to read the book to find out.
Ms. Gould did do a good job carrying the story on in first person, and there were many miscommunications and misunderstandings to increase tension. $14.99. 341 pages. -
Courting Cate is a wonderful addition to the Amish fiction genre. Within a few sentences, Cate Miller had already won my sympathies with the scene of being caught reading in bed as a child. Likely this is because I was the male version of Cate, forever being caught by my parents reading at night – without the candle, of course, as in Cate’s case! Cate is a complex character, shaped by a childhood that had very difficult moments as she was forced to become a mother to her younger sibling at a young age. Though my own story is of course much different, I resonated with Cate’s struggles to become comfortable with who God made her to be, to find her own place among people who haven’t always embraced her. I enjoyed the tremendous growth Cate experienced throughout the story as she learned to rely on God for all of her needs instead of on others. Courting Cate surprised me as a story, because though I was indeed expecting to enjoy the novel, I wasn't expecting the level of emotional depth I encountered, leading me to examine my own life and where I derive my identity.
Leslie Gould is a talented author, and I grew to really care about all of the different characters, faults and all. The romance that unfolds between Cate and Pete is often a fun one to follow, and readers are sure to cheer the outcome! I enjoyed the wonderful settings, the humorous moments, the family drama, all of which combined to make an entertaining, heart-felt read. I’m looking forward to where this series goes next under the guidance of the talented pen of Leslie Gould. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group -
As I sat down to read this book, I was rather certain of the course the storyline would take. Romantic Christian Fiction novels tend to end in much the same manner as the ten before. While the storyline is somewhat expected, I was surprised to find the usual “end” closer to the middle of the plot with lots of dips and spills to follow.
As far as Cate is concerned, I’ve found another kindred spirit. Her sharp words, practical ways, and strong will collided with mine, making us one in the same. It was, however, Cate’s assumptions of other’s thoughts of her (both physically and intellectually) that made me pause and find that there are moments when I realize I am NOT the only one to think, feel, respond that way… when you can sit down with seemingly unassuming book and end up with a friend, that turns simple words into a wonderful story. Oh! And did I mention it may be possible that Cate loved books even more than I?
As Cate and Pete’s story unfolded – think Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew – a wild range of emotions hit. From first time hostilities to compassionate moments, they hit them all. Their relationship does not find resolution until the final chapters and the highs and lows of both Cate and Pete weave a beautiful story of maturing together and learning to love.
Overall, a wonderful read. I look forward to the next one!
***Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Read this review and others like it at
www.westofnewburystreet.blogspot.com -
I'm not one to read a lot of Amish fiction. In fact, this is the third one I've read ~ and the only one I've read by this author. I also must admit that I, more often than not, like Shakespeare. This is what got me into this book. Leslie Gould's book Courting Cate is actually based on Shakespeare's play, The Taming of the Shrew.
Another thing that got me reading this particular book, was that it was written from first person point of view. My favorite character perspective... because it's what I write.
I enjoyed this book very much. All of the characters are very well developed although we are never "in" any of them but Cate. It had been a long--make that VERY long time--since I'd read the play, so many of the plot twists took me by surprise. My favorite kind of book is usually written from first person so that the reader gets to know everyone and everything as the main character does... and this book did a very good job of doing that. I would have liked even more clues about the true character and aspirations of the hero, Pete Treger, throughout the book. Both Cate and Pete were a very likable characters, though, and I loved coming to their happy ending at the end of the book.
I was given a paperback copy of this book by Bethany House in order to read and give my honest review for a LitFuse Publicity Blog Tour.
I give Leslie Gould's Courting Cate 4 Stars. -
Such a different Amish read. Once I started I didn't put it down until I finished! Loved it.
Cate has spent her life being a Mother to her sister Betsy. Their Mom died when Betsy was one day old. Could just picture the 7 year old bathing the new born. She knew what and how to do it, her Mom had kept her home from school for the last year of her life.
She loves Betsy and will do anything for her?? Well, when their Dad imposes a edict that Cate will need to marry before Betsy can, and she cannot go out to singings etc. unless Cate goes to. Life changes drastically for all of them.
When Pete Trager comes to town and starts working for their Dad...he is a wealthy Amishman. Cate sees he is interested in Betsy, but he shares her interest in reading. We experience some fun goings on with Cate and Pete.
There is a lot of trickery going on here, and some things are not as they appear.
I should state that Cate through the years has developed what others consider a "prickly personality". She has been scared by some of life happenings and she tends to take it out on others.
Watch her bloom into a "Sweet Cate", but she sure struggles getting there. Do yourself a favor and pick this wonderful read up! You won't be disappointed.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Tours, and was not required to give a positive review. -
I have read plenty of Amish romances and fiction in recent times, and I generally love them and award them a 5-star rating with absolutely no trouble. Well, let me tell you something. This is by far one of the best Amish romance I have ever read! It was so different from the others I have read, and in a good way, too! I was drawn into the book from the very beginning, and at times, I was so into the book that I forgot where I was!
This is a unique Amish story. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but it will definitely keep you guessing at every turn. While you can count on an ending being something you will enjoy, the journey is full of suspense at times. There were times I just wanted to shake some sense into Cate or slap Pete upside the head, I was fully engaged in the story at all times.
I love the way the spiritual elements are seamlessly woven into the story line. I always find that Amish fiction is consistently the best at accomplishing this. Even if the people walk away from God, they always seem to come back. And you will see that in Cate, and I found it very inspiring. And God works in the lives of everyone else as well, and by the end of the book, everyone is serving God!
If you like Amish fiction and/or clean romances, this is definitely the book for you! I can't recommend it highly enough. -
Don't you just love this cover? I'm a highly visual person, so when I first saw it I was intrigued. The author paints some lovely word pictures of the countryside but the story didn't pan out exactly like I expected. About a third of the way through I was thinking that Cate was a real biddy. I wasn't liking her or the story at all. Courting Cate is sort of an Amish retelling of The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare. I continued to read until the half way point, maybe a little more, but finally had to stop. The story was slow and depressing to me. I just couldn't get into it with so much negativity and deceit going on.
If you enjoy Amish Fiction or Shakespeare (grin) then you might enjoy this book. Lots of people have, according to the reviews, I'm just not one of them.
Bethany House provided a copy for review purposes. Only my honest opinion is required, which I have given. No other compensation has been received. -
This book was a good read from beginning to end! I enjoyed this book so much. I haven't read an Amish fiction book quite like this one. I think that is why I liked it so much.
Cate Miller is one feisty gal. She has resigned herself to the fact that she will never marry. All the guys hang around her younger sister Betsy without giving Cate a second glance or so it seems. Perhaps her grumpy and grouchy attitude doesn't help. Maybe Pete Treger, from New York can soften Cate up, then again maybe not. Will Cate ever find someone to love and will she find happiness?
When we distance ourselves from God, things can turn out far different then what we hoped it would. Will Cate find her way back to God and happiness? Can she let go of bitterness and learn to forgive?
I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. -
Courting Cate was my first experience with Leslie Gould and it won't be my last. This was a unique Amish novel, written in first perspective. To date, I have not come across another Amish novel written the same. Cate is also an anomaly to most Amish stories I've read. Learning to trust God with your live, love, and everything is hard. But that's what he wants. Mistrust turns to trust, Cold and Callous turns to warm and joyful in Christ, and love conquers all in this sweet Amish romance.
See my full review
here. -
Wow!! I was so engrossed in this book that I stayed up 'til almost midnight (on a weeknight!). I could really relate to Cate - her talents & interests are very similar to mine. The description of Amish & Mennonite lifestyle is fascinating - sounds so much more satisfactory than the "Englisch" ( I don't think I spelled that right). The parallel to the famous Shakespearean "Taming of the Shrew" was spot on :). Sweet!!
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I am between liking it and very much liking it.
There were parts I really liked, and then there were time I needed to put it down and walk away.
I loved Cate's spirit and how her relationship with Pete grew from the beginning. I was unimpressed with the selfishness of her sister and how she always seemed to get her way. -
I liked how throughout the story you can really watch Cate change and grow personally and rely and trust God to help her through. And Pete and kind and so patient. Cate's sister, Betsy, I just had to shake my head at her selfishness and immaturity...
Over all, good story, and hopefully I'll find the rest of the series to read someday. -
The characters are very engaging. There were some points where decisions or changes of heart were too sudden for me to find them completely believable. But the story was written in an enjoyable way that made me willing to ignore it when I normally wouldn't. But that is why the story is 4-star and not 5.
