About Me I am a retired librarian and I now support books and authors through my reviews.

I have always loved to read and I was able to share that love through my work as a public librarian for 22 1/2 years. I now promote literacy by reading, and then writing reviews. I love to support authors by sharing my reviews with others!

Thursday, July 30, 2026

The Melody of Love by Wanda E. Brunstetter & Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach

The Melody of Love
ABOUT THE BOOK

Amelia Wasn’t Looking for Love
 
A widowed mother, Amelia Miller never thought of finding love again—until she meets Christian Yoder while on a sisters’ trip to Ohio. When Christian suddenly has the opportunity to move to Indiana near Amelia, what started as a spark grows to a flame. . .but there are complications. Amelia’s son, who is on the autism spectrum, doesn’t like the new man who has been coming around, and he often acts out in tantrums. Amelia’s love for her son is her priority, so romance may have to be sacrificed. Christian, though, is determined to find a connection with the boy.






MY THOUGHTS.....

The Melody of Love offers a perspective not often seen in Amish fiction. We're shown the struggles of an Amish widow who has devoted her life to raising her young son by herself, and her efforts to help him after he is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. As I read Amelia's journey, I was reminded that single parenting can seem overwhelming, but how much worse would it be to have an ill or challenged child? How could there ever be time to think of your own happiness? Would you dare hope to find another chance for love and marriage?

Co-authors Wanda E. Brunstetter and Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach poignantly share Amelia's realistic emotions as she navigates the realities of autism. She's determined to help her son Micah, excited that Christian Yoder will be moving to Indiana, but also afraid that Micah won't accept this Amish widower. I enjoyed the blossoming friendship between Christian and Micah, the understanding special ed teacher who helps Amelia and her son, and the support from the Amish community in Goshen. I was also excited that music was so important to Micah in this touching story of family love, second chances, and acceptance of God's Plan!

I received a complimentary copy from the authors and Barbour Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and receive numerous awards.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and family ties. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.


To learn more about Wanda, visit her  Website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest






Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach became interested in the Plain people’s culture as a young child, after visiting the Lancaster Amish with her parents. Lorine is a music teacher and lives in Southwest Idaho with her husband, Bill. They have three daughters and four grandchildren. Lorine enjoys playing the piano, singing, writing, gardening, cooking, and traveling.


An interview with Lorine can be found here.
 
Lorine also contributed a story to Sisters by the Sea.







Friday, July 24, 2026

The Second Chance Trailer Park by Katie Powner

The Second Chance Trailer Park
ABOUT THE BOOK

From award-winning author Katie Powner comes a funny feel-good novel about a woman discovering her second chance at life.

This charming and heartfelt story is perfect for readers who loved Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame.


Fifty-two-year-old Meredith McGillicutty is not having a midlife crisis. She’s just ready for a change of pace, that’s all. The fact that she lied to get into a retirement community has nothing to do with being passed over for a promotion at work nor her recent breakup with the only man she’s ever loved. 

Nothing.     

Meredith only wants some peace and quiet. To sit on a porch in elastic-waist pants and mingle with other mature individuals who value a life of serenity. But the residents of the Peaceful Pines retirement community have other plans for her. These quirky and endearing neighbors seem to know her better than she knows herself, and they decide Meredith’s life is only just beginning. 

Blending humor and tenderness, The Second Chance Trailer Park will appeal to fans of Fredrik Backman and Lenora Worth.




MY THOUGHTS.....

Meredith McGillicutty needs a change, but she doesn't realize the change that's coming after moving into a senior-citizen trailer park. She meets amazing people, experiences the joy of unexpected friendships, and realizes the promise of second chances! Her journey is often quirky, always unique, and the humor kept me laughing out loud until the very end. Where else would a cat wedding be normal and acceptable?

Five years ago, I read Katie Powner's debut novel and was blown away by the beautiful emotions depicted in The Sowing Season. Choosing to read her newest book was never a question, but The Second Chance Trailer Park is somewhat different than her previous books! Was I disappointed? No way!

The Second Chance Trailer Park is a heartwarming, feel-good story laced with laughter, faith, and reflection. I highly recommend it to anyone who is longing for an enjoyable summer read!

I received a digital copy of the book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katie Powner is an award-winning author who lives in rural Montana where cows still outnumber people. She is a two-time OCW Cascade Award and ACFW First Impressions Award winner. Katie is a mom to the third power: biological, adoptive, and foster. She loves Jesus, red shoes, and candy. 

Katie can be found at www.katiepowner.com,  
Follow her on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram


I invite you to check out my reviews of other books by Katie Powner!

The Second Chance Trailer Park