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Amish Vines and Orchards #1
A Season for Tending
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
209 people are currently reading
1,656 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
61 books1,108 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
March 8, 2021
I really enjoyed reading A Season for Tending. I am looking forward to reading books 2 & 3 in this series.
September 24, 2012
"A Season for Tending" is the first book in the Amish Vines and Orchards series by Cindy Woodsmall. So far I have enjoyed every single book I've ever read by the author and this book was no exception to that. There's a certain standard I have come to expect from Cindy and that is:
1. Characters you can fall in love with.
2. Wisdom interwoven into the very fabric of her stories.
3. Edgy and unique storyline.
In this book we meet a young lady named Rhoda Byler. As an Old Order Amish, you would expect Rhoda to be a fairly typical girl looking for love. However, Rhoda has an unusual gift -- at times she has seen into the future, certainly not an attribute you would think of a typical Amish girl! Her "intuition" has helped many people but she failed to help the person that mattered the most to her in the world, her sister. In the attempts to save her sister from being in a terrible accident, Rhoda exposed her secret and now many of her community fear her. They fear that she practices witchcraft and tend to ridicule and harass her. For that she has isolated herself in her garden, tending to beloved plants that offer no condemnation.
Through a strange course of events, Rhoda meets the King family. The Kings own an orchard that is struggling and Samuel, the oldest of the King boys, is confident that Rhoda can save their orchard and thus save their family from financial ruin. Though she declines at first, a personal setback causes her to reconsider and in doing so she finds herself developing a strange connection with the entire family.
I don't want to spill too much about this story because it really is a fantastic story and I'd rather you discover it yourself. But let me say that the characters are wonderfully written. I love characters that evoke emotion in a reader. I found myself being frustrated with Samuel when Rhoda would express irritation. I felt sympathy for Jacob and I might would admit to a book-crush on his character if you pressed the issue enough. I didn't really get to know Eli that much but I'm sure I will get to know him more in later installments. As for Leah, I adored this girl! Her character is struggling to find herself and gets into a bit of trouble at first but towards the end I kept secretly hoping she would get with Rhoda's friend, Landon. I'll be excited to see if my prediction of those two as a couple happens in the future. Too bad Rhoda isn't here to feel things out for me, right?
This story is truly unique. I wasn't really expecting a simplistic ghost story in an Amish book. It was so well written and it was a pleasant surprise. It wasn't written as a paranormal/typical ghost story and I'll be excited to see how the entire plot is wrapped up. Although, I have a feeling I will be sad to say goodbye to these characters when the time comes! So there you have it...my stamp of approval and a recommendation for anyone that loves Amish fiction!
About the Author
Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author who has written six novels, three novellas, and Plain Wisdom, a work of nonfiction coauthored with her dearest Old Order Amish friend, Miriam Flaud. She’s been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal, and has worked with National Geographic on a documentary concerning Amish life.
Read an Excerpt
Places to buy A Season for Tending
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
CBD
I received A Season for Tending as a complimentary gift in exchange for an honest review from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. My comments and opinions are my own.
1. Characters you can fall in love with.
2. Wisdom interwoven into the very fabric of her stories.
3. Edgy and unique storyline.
In this book we meet a young lady named Rhoda Byler. As an Old Order Amish, you would expect Rhoda to be a fairly typical girl looking for love. However, Rhoda has an unusual gift -- at times she has seen into the future, certainly not an attribute you would think of a typical Amish girl! Her "intuition" has helped many people but she failed to help the person that mattered the most to her in the world, her sister. In the attempts to save her sister from being in a terrible accident, Rhoda exposed her secret and now many of her community fear her. They fear that she practices witchcraft and tend to ridicule and harass her. For that she has isolated herself in her garden, tending to beloved plants that offer no condemnation.
Through a strange course of events, Rhoda meets the King family. The Kings own an orchard that is struggling and Samuel, the oldest of the King boys, is confident that Rhoda can save their orchard and thus save their family from financial ruin. Though she declines at first, a personal setback causes her to reconsider and in doing so she finds herself developing a strange connection with the entire family.
"Sometimes what keeps a relationship from shattering is minding your own business and enjoying what does exist between the two of you"
I don't want to spill too much about this story because it really is a fantastic story and I'd rather you discover it yourself. But let me say that the characters are wonderfully written. I love characters that evoke emotion in a reader. I found myself being frustrated with Samuel when Rhoda would express irritation. I felt sympathy for Jacob and I might would admit to a book-crush on his character if you pressed the issue enough. I didn't really get to know Eli that much but I'm sure I will get to know him more in later installments. As for Leah, I adored this girl! Her character is struggling to find herself and gets into a bit of trouble at first but towards the end I kept secretly hoping she would get with Rhoda's friend, Landon. I'll be excited to see if my prediction of those two as a couple happens in the future. Too bad Rhoda isn't here to feel things out for me, right?
This story is truly unique. I wasn't really expecting a simplistic ghost story in an Amish book. It was so well written and it was a pleasant surprise. It wasn't written as a paranormal/typical ghost story and I'll be excited to see how the entire plot is wrapped up. Although, I have a feeling I will be sad to say goodbye to these characters when the time comes! So there you have it...my stamp of approval and a recommendation for anyone that loves Amish fiction!
About the Author
Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author who has written six novels, three novellas, and Plain Wisdom, a work of nonfiction coauthored with her dearest Old Order Amish friend, Miriam Flaud. She’s been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal, and has worked with National Geographic on a documentary concerning Amish life.
Read an Excerpt
Places to buy A Season for Tending
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
CBD
I received A Season for Tending as a complimentary gift in exchange for an honest review from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. My comments and opinions are my own.
March 31, 2013
I felt my heart being torn for Rhoda Byler as the community questioned her gift. It is not just the Amish who look on "gifts" of intuition or knowing as strange and attribute it to witchcraft as they did with Rhoda. She does have the support of most of her family though. What I loved is that in this Amish fiction, several characters struggle with gossip, jealousy, and unkind thoughts of others. The characters were made to seem very human and I appreciate that. Cindy Woodsmall gives a clear message that forgiveness is available and change can be made for the better in each of us! I am already eagerly anticipating the second book in the series to see what happens next for Rhoda, Samuel, Jacob, Leah, Landon, and the other characters. Who will win Rhoda's heart? Will it tear a family apart?
Reading about all the delicious apple recipes Rhoda made in the story made me itch to make a batch of apple butter! I may just have to get some apples and do just that! The book also featured some of Sherry Gore's apple recipes which I am hoping to try in the near future.
Reading about all the delicious apple recipes Rhoda made in the story made me itch to make a batch of apple butter! I may just have to get some apples and do just that! The book also featured some of Sherry Gore's apple recipes which I am hoping to try in the near future.
April 27, 2017
Hey, friends. By now you all know that I like Amish novels. It's hard to explain. But if you were ever curious about it, and thought you might like to read one, I would recommend this book/series. Cindy Woodsmall is, in my opinion, the best writer of the genre.
September 15, 2012
A Season for Tending
By Cindy Woodsmall
This is the first book in Ms. Woodsmall’s “Amish Vines and Orchards”. It is a MUST read, and personally, I think Ms. Woodsmall needs to get busy getting the rest of the books in this series to us as soon as she can ☺
Book Description
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
I cannot remember another book that I have read that there was not just one character that was my favorite. Deep rich characters were plentiful in this book so I have many favorites. And I do have one in this book though that needs a “come to Jesus” meeting and that would be Rueben Glick. And Catherine… well, I haven’t figured out exactly what her solution may be just yet. I truly fell in love with Rhoda, Samuel, Jacob, Landon, Eli & Leah. Rhoda Byler’s “unusual gift” was written in a way that you could grasp the emotions that it caused Rhoda and her family.
I must shake my pointer finger at Ms. Woodsmall and say, “you naughty author” (with a smile) for the last quarter of the book. Naughty not in a bad way, but in a way that she threw us a curve ball when it was least expected. It’s a page-turner from the beginning but if that last quarter of the book doesn’t really captivate you in impatiently waiting for the next in this series, then there is something seriously wrong.
My biggest regret in reading this book is that there are not others already out in the series, because I wanted to continue reading this wonderful story.
~ I give this book 5 Whoopie Pies ~
By Cindy Woodsmall
This is the first book in Ms. Woodsmall’s “Amish Vines and Orchards”. It is a MUST read, and personally, I think Ms. Woodsmall needs to get busy getting the rest of the books in this series to us as soon as she can ☺
Book Description
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
I cannot remember another book that I have read that there was not just one character that was my favorite. Deep rich characters were plentiful in this book so I have many favorites. And I do have one in this book though that needs a “come to Jesus” meeting and that would be Rueben Glick. And Catherine… well, I haven’t figured out exactly what her solution may be just yet. I truly fell in love with Rhoda, Samuel, Jacob, Landon, Eli & Leah. Rhoda Byler’s “unusual gift” was written in a way that you could grasp the emotions that it caused Rhoda and her family.
I must shake my pointer finger at Ms. Woodsmall and say, “you naughty author” (with a smile) for the last quarter of the book. Naughty not in a bad way, but in a way that she threw us a curve ball when it was least expected. It’s a page-turner from the beginning but if that last quarter of the book doesn’t really captivate you in impatiently waiting for the next in this series, then there is something seriously wrong.
My biggest regret in reading this book is that there are not others already out in the series, because I wanted to continue reading this wonderful story.
~ I give this book 5 Whoopie Pies ~
September 26, 2016
I didn't like this book. I didn't like any of the characters. Most of them were mean or cruel. Also, there was a lot of idiocy. It annoyed me too much for me to enjoy this book. The setting was nice. It sounded like a beautiful place. I was disappointed that more of the story didn't take place in Maine. I was looking forward to that part of the story.
November 17, 2012
There is a plentiful supply and selection of Amish themed books available in the Christian fiction market. Cindy Woodsmall is among the best authors of this genre. I believe in A Season for Tending she presents some interesting insight into life among the Amish.
With Rhoda, our mail female character, we have an unwed Amish young lady who is dedicated to growing herbs and berries. But other issues are at play involving Rhoda. She has something akin to "second sight" though it is not called that in the story. Need-less-to-say, her ability to glimpse into what is about to happen is not looked upon favorably with the Amish nor in the community in which they live along side of non-Amish. She also possesses knowledge of herbs and how the various herbs can aid in the healing process and in making folks feel better. This, too, creates suspicious thinking regarding Rhoda.
She is exceptionally talented in making her small plot of land product copious amounts of quality fruit and herbs. Is this because she has talent and knowledge or because she is a witch or something similar. The community wonders.
Samuel King comes into Rhoda's life and sees the possibility that her plant care and canning talents can assist him with the apple business in King's Orchard. Throughout the book, we are given a good look into the troubles, trials, and joys of being in the business of growing apples.
Emotions run taunt throughout the book as lives interweave. The books does not end like a typical romance where boy meets girl and all live happily ever after. There is a bit of a cliffhanger.
A good read; and as usual Cindy Woodsmall doesn't disappoint with her characters' development, the story line, and the twists and turns it takes.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of A Season for Tending from Blogging For Books on behalf of the publisher, WaterBrook Press, and the author, Cindy Woodsmall for the purpose of an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
With Rhoda, our mail female character, we have an unwed Amish young lady who is dedicated to growing herbs and berries. But other issues are at play involving Rhoda. She has something akin to "second sight" though it is not called that in the story. Need-less-to-say, her ability to glimpse into what is about to happen is not looked upon favorably with the Amish nor in the community in which they live along side of non-Amish. She also possesses knowledge of herbs and how the various herbs can aid in the healing process and in making folks feel better. This, too, creates suspicious thinking regarding Rhoda.
She is exceptionally talented in making her small plot of land product copious amounts of quality fruit and herbs. Is this because she has talent and knowledge or because she is a witch or something similar. The community wonders.
Samuel King comes into Rhoda's life and sees the possibility that her plant care and canning talents can assist him with the apple business in King's Orchard. Throughout the book, we are given a good look into the troubles, trials, and joys of being in the business of growing apples.
Emotions run taunt throughout the book as lives interweave. The books does not end like a typical romance where boy meets girl and all live happily ever after. There is a bit of a cliffhanger.
A good read; and as usual Cindy Woodsmall doesn't disappoint with her characters' development, the story line, and the twists and turns it takes.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of A Season for Tending from Blogging For Books on behalf of the publisher, WaterBrook Press, and the author, Cindy Woodsmall for the purpose of an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
August 24, 2012
I've never read any books on the Amish, so this was a first for me. But the way Cindy Woodsmall wrote Season for Tending brought them out to be normal people that everyone can relate to. All the while introducing the rest of us to their ways of life. Can I share a secret with you?? There really no different than the rest of us. they just have a few beliefs that we deem as strange.
Rhoda's spirit calls out from this book with such a surprising strength it keeps you turning the page, and not wanting to put the book down. Shes a wonderful strong-willed young woman that has been subjected to the bitterness of life more than anyone person should ever have to be, but no matter how many times life knocks her down she stands back up, dusts off her skirts and holds her head up high.
When Samuel and his family came into the picture I was torn between a love match between Rhoda and Samuel, and Rhoda and Jacob. I have to admit a instant dislike for Catherine, but that's not the writers fault, I just do not like weak simpering women, and she was every bit that and more. I found myself almost rooting for poor old Samuel when they argued. I can completely understand Leah's, Samuel's sister, dislike of her.
I enjoyed how the writer touched on the equally touchy subject of someone leaving the Amish Community, but at the same time showing that while it is difficult it is done.
I wont spoil the end of the book for you but I can promise that sorrow and incomplete lives and shattered souls are mended by the end of the book. Love grows by leaps and bounds.
Rhoda's spirit calls out from this book with such a surprising strength it keeps you turning the page, and not wanting to put the book down. Shes a wonderful strong-willed young woman that has been subjected to the bitterness of life more than anyone person should ever have to be, but no matter how many times life knocks her down she stands back up, dusts off her skirts and holds her head up high.
When Samuel and his family came into the picture I was torn between a love match between Rhoda and Samuel, and Rhoda and Jacob. I have to admit a instant dislike for Catherine, but that's not the writers fault, I just do not like weak simpering women, and she was every bit that and more. I found myself almost rooting for poor old Samuel when they argued. I can completely understand Leah's, Samuel's sister, dislike of her.
I enjoyed how the writer touched on the equally touchy subject of someone leaving the Amish Community, but at the same time showing that while it is difficult it is done.
I wont spoil the end of the book for you but I can promise that sorrow and incomplete lives and shattered souls are mended by the end of the book. Love grows by leaps and bounds.
August 29, 2015
This is the first book in the Amish Vines and Orchard series.
Rhonda Byler is a young Old Order Amish woman whose unusual gifts and remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many in her community to think of her as odd, and some even suspect of her witchcraft. She chooses a life of mostly isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family's apple orchard profitable; he farms with his two younger brothers, Jacob and Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine tries to remain patient and hopes that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
In the meantime, his younger sister Leah is testing her bounderies during rumpspringa, and finds herself far from home, in Rhoda's garden after a night of partyting that had gone badly. But Leah's poor choices may actually serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the Kings, when a tragic mistake made in the orchard finds Samuel scrambling to find a solution. Rhoda's experience with canning would be the answer, but she doesn't trust herself outside her garden wall.
I really enjoyed this story; in a lot of ways, it followed the "typical" formula for Amish fiction, but there were still some very unexpected twists and turns in the plot that kept me reading. Not all of the loose story ends were tied up, but it was a satisfying ending, leaving the reader just curious enough to want to read the next book in the series. A recommended story for all fans of Amish fiction.
Rhonda Byler is a young Old Order Amish woman whose unusual gifts and remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many in her community to think of her as odd, and some even suspect of her witchcraft. She chooses a life of mostly isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family's apple orchard profitable; he farms with his two younger brothers, Jacob and Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine tries to remain patient and hopes that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
In the meantime, his younger sister Leah is testing her bounderies during rumpspringa, and finds herself far from home, in Rhoda's garden after a night of partyting that had gone badly. But Leah's poor choices may actually serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the Kings, when a tragic mistake made in the orchard finds Samuel scrambling to find a solution. Rhoda's experience with canning would be the answer, but she doesn't trust herself outside her garden wall.
I really enjoyed this story; in a lot of ways, it followed the "typical" formula for Amish fiction, but there were still some very unexpected twists and turns in the plot that kept me reading. Not all of the loose story ends were tied up, but it was a satisfying ending, leaving the reader just curious enough to want to read the next book in the series. A recommended story for all fans of Amish fiction.
May 27, 2019
This is a mini ‘Books For Christian Girls’ review. It is not a full content review and will not receive one. These mini-reviews are years old and just for clarity on the rating the book received on Goodreads.
4/7/2015-
“I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but, sadly, this wasn't it. I knew the series would be dragged out, but all the romance/emotions parts were different. Not my cup of tea.”
*Main Content-
Leah goes to parties, drinks (underage), & smokes; Mentions of animal droppings & urine; A mention of suicide; Minor cussing (butt out, duh, dumb, stupid).
Hand kisses (semi-detailed), three barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and two semi-detailed kisses; Touches & Embraces (semi-detailed); Seeing other couples kissing and touching; Wanting to kiss; Wanting to have children with a man; Leah & Michael are hinted to have slept together (mentions of protection, undressing, and Leah thinking she's pregnant (but she's not)); Mentions of a guy who cheated on his girlfriends; A mention of a couple going to a room to "talk"; A mention of a guy using different girls; a 'tramp' is said; Love, falling in love, emotions, boyfriends, and girlfriends;
Mentions of clothes hugging curves; Mentions of periods, & being late; A mention of a uterus.
4/7/2015-
“I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but, sadly, this wasn't it. I knew the series would be dragged out, but all the romance/emotions parts were different. Not my cup of tea.”
*Main Content-
Leah goes to parties, drinks (underage), & smokes; Mentions of animal droppings & urine; A mention of suicide; Minor cussing (butt out, duh, dumb, stupid).
Hand kisses (semi-detailed), three barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and two semi-detailed kisses; Touches & Embraces (semi-detailed); Seeing other couples kissing and touching; Wanting to kiss; Wanting to have children with a man; Leah & Michael are hinted to have slept together (mentions of protection, undressing, and Leah thinking she's pregnant (but she's not)); Mentions of a guy who cheated on his girlfriends; A mention of a couple going to a room to "talk"; A mention of a guy using different girls; a 'tramp' is said; Love, falling in love, emotions, boyfriends, and girlfriends;
Mentions of clothes hugging curves; Mentions of periods, & being late; A mention of a uterus.
September 23, 2012
I am a fan of Cindy Woodsmall's books, once you read them, they linger with you for a long time. This one is a compelling page turner and a big insight into the strength of Amish family life.
As with all communities, people are not always what they present themselves to be. People who claim to love the Lord and then do violence to another one is an example. Poor Rhoda has been bullied by some in her Community because she told the true about this individual. When first her garden, and them her beloved fruit plants are destroyed, she is beyond grief.
Enter the King family. Samuel has been in charge of the families apple orchard, and when a chance meeting with Rhoda, gives him an idea. So begins changes. Some are far reaching. As with the end of this book, we are heading down hill without breaks. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Will Rhoda end up with one of the King brothers? What about Catherine? How about Leah? There are more questions, and I have to wait for answers, please soon!!
I received this book from Blogging For Books, and the Publisher Waterbrook Press, and was not required to give a positive review.
As with all communities, people are not always what they present themselves to be. People who claim to love the Lord and then do violence to another one is an example. Poor Rhoda has been bullied by some in her Community because she told the true about this individual. When first her garden, and them her beloved fruit plants are destroyed, she is beyond grief.
Enter the King family. Samuel has been in charge of the families apple orchard, and when a chance meeting with Rhoda, gives him an idea. So begins changes. Some are far reaching. As with the end of this book, we are heading down hill without breaks. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Will Rhoda end up with one of the King brothers? What about Catherine? How about Leah? There are more questions, and I have to wait for answers, please soon!!
I received this book from Blogging For Books, and the Publisher Waterbrook Press, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 16, 2012
Just finished reading "A Season For Tending" by Cindy Woodsmall. This is book 1 in The Amish Vines And Orchards Series. Another 5 star book by Cindy Woodsmall. Leah always felt her family didn't love her and didn't want the Amish lifestyle so she was always going to English parties and one night her boyfriend tells her he doesn't love her when she is drunk and she loses her way home and falls asleep in Rhoda's garden, Rhoda is considered strange by the people in town because of the herbs she grows and because sometimes she has strange feelings that something isn't always right. When Leah's brothers discover that their apple orchard is in trouble, they want Rhoda to join forces with them to help save it.In the meantime Samuel, Leah's brother, falls out of love with his girlfriend Catherine. In this book businesses and loves are lost. So some of the families moves to Maine. Does the promise of a double rainbow mean hope is rebuilt. Can't wait till book 2.
September 10, 2012
I was luck enough to be given a chance to read A Season for Tending before it was even released. Cindy Woodsmall tells a wonderful story of an odd Amish women named Rhoda who prefers to spend most of her time in her garden than with her peers. Most of her community are appalled by her gift and avoid her at all cost. Across the state lives the King family. Samuel, the oldest boy trying to revive the old apple orchard. Eventually the two meet thanks to Samuel's younger sister Leah. Samuel and his brother convince Rhoda to come back to the orchard to help.
There were a couple of twists and turns in this book and it kept me on my toes. I really fell in love with how Ms Woodsmall wrote this story. I wish she would have went deeper into the relationship of one of the couples and I was really pulling for some characters! I truly can't wait for book number 2.
There were a couple of twists and turns in this book and it kept me on my toes. I really fell in love with how Ms Woodsmall wrote this story. I wish she would have went deeper into the relationship of one of the couples and I was really pulling for some characters! I truly can't wait for book number 2.
December 15, 2012
When I first started this book I almost abandoned it because I tend to shy away from books that have too many characters from the beginning. It gets too confusing trying to remember who goes with who and it takes away from the story. I spend more time trying to remember who the character is than enjoying the story.
Once I got it all straightened out it was a good story. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to book 2 where I think there will be less characters to sort out. I love Ms. Woodsmall's books and this series is a good one. It has a lot of drama from several characters but it is told well and the reasons behind some decisions are explained so the reader is satisfied. I really cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. This book leaves you wanting more.
Once I got it all straightened out it was a good story. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to book 2 where I think there will be less characters to sort out. I love Ms. Woodsmall's books and this series is a good one. It has a lot of drama from several characters but it is told well and the reasons behind some decisions are explained so the reader is satisfied. I really cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. This book leaves you wanting more.
August 24, 2012
Cindy Woodsmall writes really good Amish fiction. I liked the strength of Rhoda and the other characters with the exception of Catherine, she is whiny and weak. Rhoda's relationships with Samuel and Jacob keep you wondering which one she'll end up with. It's a nice look into the Amish lifestyle. Samuel's young sister, Leah, is in her rumschpringe and after a party ends up in Rhoda's garden. Something happens that causes strife between their families.
Good writing, interesting characters, and a great storyline...what more could one want? 5 out of 5 stars from me.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Good writing, interesting characters, and a great storyline...what more could one want? 5 out of 5 stars from me.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2015
Really liked it, cindy woodsmall knows how to write a good story :). Catherine did get on my nerves at times. This story made me realize how quick we can be to make rash judgements about people, like judging a book by its cover....and how we should try to be aware of and overcome prejudices we may have picked up or been taught at an early age.
And how could she end the story like that!!!!!! I must read the next book very soon :)
And how could she end the story like that!!!!!! I must read the next book very soon :)
January 4, 2022
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Inspirational Amish read that includes diversity, hardship, faith, and family bonds. It was well written and compels the reader onward with an interesting plotline.
I was disappointed that there is no H.E.A.. for each book in the series. This compares to a four-part book, each part being sold separately, which is fine if the reader realizes it in advance, but not so much when it comes to a complete surprise at the conclusion of the book.
Inspirational Amish read that includes diversity, hardship, faith, and family bonds. It was well written and compels the reader onward with an interesting plotline.
I was disappointed that there is no H.E.A.. for each book in the series. This compares to a four-part book, each part being sold separately, which is fine if the reader realizes it in advance, but not so much when it comes to a complete surprise at the conclusion of the book.
Read
May 12, 2015Engaging Book
Another enjoyable read from Cindy Woodsmall. The characters were unique and interesting as they dealt with everyday problems and also some major problems. The characters were genuine and I gained insight from how they felt with the common problems of life. In addition, it was fascinating learning more about the care and methods of tending an apple orchard.
Another enjoyable read from Cindy Woodsmall. The characters were unique and interesting as they dealt with everyday problems and also some major problems. The characters were genuine and I gained insight from how they felt with the common problems of life. In addition, it was fascinating learning more about the care and methods of tending an apple orchard.
January 19, 2013
Absolutely loved this book! The different relationships, the questions, the secrets, each character "finding" him/herself.....great!!! Cindy Woodsmall weaves a great story and leaves it hanging at the end!
May 16, 2017
Enjoyable book and clean romance.
September 22, 2012
Great book. I love to garden and have an herb garden. I also can so this book was right up my alley. I was canning applesauce at the time I read the book.
Read
December 10, 2012Great book!
July 16, 2016
THIS SUMMARY/REVIEW WAS COPIED FROM OTHER SOURCES AND IS USED ONLY AS A REMINDER OF WHAT THE BOOK WAS ABOUT FOR MY PERSONAL INTEREST. ANY PERSONAL NOTATIONS ARE FOR MY RECOLLECTION ONLY
4.5
***********
Leah always felt her family didn't love her and didn't want the Amish lifestyle so she was always going to English parties and one night her boyfriend tells her he doesn't love her when she is drunk and she loses her way home and falls asleep in Rhoda's garden, Rhoda is considered strange by the people in town because of the herbs she grows and because sometimes she has strange feelings that something isn't always right. When Leah's brothers discover that their apple orchard is in trouble, they want Rhoda to join forces with them to help save it.In the meantime Samuel, Leah's brother, falls out of love with his girlfriend Catherine. In this book businesses and loves are lost. So some of the families moves to Maine. Does the promise of a double rainbow mean hope is rebuilt.
************
The first book in this series introduces Rhoda, a woman with the gift of premonition. This can be hard for many people to accept, but Rhoda is Amish, and her people seem to look on her as a possible witch, as do the non-Amish in the area. I liked Rhoda. Her ability to grow plants and herbs is amazing; not only do her plants thrive, but she was able to start up her own business for her canned goods. She was strong, independent and intelligent. She had a good heart and wanted to help people. She feels guilt for not being able to save her sister when she had a guy feeling something was wrong.
In a nearby town we meet Leah, Samuel, Catherine and Jacob. Leah is 17 and testing every boundary she can, going to wild parties and making very poor choices. After a party goes wrong, a drunk Leah passes out in Rhoda's garden. This brings the two families together. Samuel is struggling to save his families apple orchard and save money for him and his girlfriend, Catherine to get married. He realizes he could use Rhoda's knowledge and help. Catherine drove me insane. I thought she was the biggest whiny crybaby. She made it clear she was only interested in criticizing Leah instead of helping her, and she expected Samuel to fix all of her problems.
********
In this book we meet a young lady named Rhoda Byler. As an Old Order Amish, you would expect Rhoda to be a fairly typical girl looking for love. However, Rhoda has an unusual gift -- at times she has seen into the future, certainly not an attribute you would think of a typical Amish girl! Her "intuition" has helped many people but she failed to help the person that mattered the most to her in the world, her sister. In the attempts to save her sister from being in a terrible accident, Rhoda exposed her secret and now many of her community fear her. They fear that she practices witchcraft and tend to ridicule and harass her. For that she has isolated herself in her garden, tending to beloved plants that offer no condemnation.
Through a strange course of events, Rhoda meets the King family. The Kings own an orchard that is struggling and Samuel, the oldest of the King boys, is confident that Rhoda can save their orchard and thus save their family from financial ruin. Though she declines at first, a personal setback causes her to reconsider and in doing so she finds herself developing a strange connection with the entire family.
"Sometimes what keeps a relationship from shattering is minding your own business and enjoying what does exist between the two of you"
I don't want to spill too much about this story because it really is a fantastic story and I'd rather you discover it yourself. But let me say that the characters are wonderfully written. I love characters that evoke emotion in a reader. I found myself being frustrated with Samuel when Rhoda would express irritation. I felt sympathy for Jacob and I might would admit to a book-crush on his character if you pressed the issue enough. I didn't really get to know Eli that much but I'm sure I will get to know him more in later installments. As for Leah, I adored this girl! Her character is struggling to find herself and gets into a bit of trouble at first but towards the end I kept secretly hoping she would get with Rhoda's friend, Landon. I'll be excited to see if my prediction of those two as a couple happens in the future. Too bad Rhoda isn't here to feel things out for me, right?
*********
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
*********
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
**********
4.5
***********
Leah always felt her family didn't love her and didn't want the Amish lifestyle so she was always going to English parties and one night her boyfriend tells her he doesn't love her when she is drunk and she loses her way home and falls asleep in Rhoda's garden, Rhoda is considered strange by the people in town because of the herbs she grows and because sometimes she has strange feelings that something isn't always right. When Leah's brothers discover that their apple orchard is in trouble, they want Rhoda to join forces with them to help save it.In the meantime Samuel, Leah's brother, falls out of love with his girlfriend Catherine. In this book businesses and loves are lost. So some of the families moves to Maine. Does the promise of a double rainbow mean hope is rebuilt.
************
The first book in this series introduces Rhoda, a woman with the gift of premonition. This can be hard for many people to accept, but Rhoda is Amish, and her people seem to look on her as a possible witch, as do the non-Amish in the area. I liked Rhoda. Her ability to grow plants and herbs is amazing; not only do her plants thrive, but she was able to start up her own business for her canned goods. She was strong, independent and intelligent. She had a good heart and wanted to help people. She feels guilt for not being able to save her sister when she had a guy feeling something was wrong.
In a nearby town we meet Leah, Samuel, Catherine and Jacob. Leah is 17 and testing every boundary she can, going to wild parties and making very poor choices. After a party goes wrong, a drunk Leah passes out in Rhoda's garden. This brings the two families together. Samuel is struggling to save his families apple orchard and save money for him and his girlfriend, Catherine to get married. He realizes he could use Rhoda's knowledge and help. Catherine drove me insane. I thought she was the biggest whiny crybaby. She made it clear she was only interested in criticizing Leah instead of helping her, and she expected Samuel to fix all of her problems.
********
In this book we meet a young lady named Rhoda Byler. As an Old Order Amish, you would expect Rhoda to be a fairly typical girl looking for love. However, Rhoda has an unusual gift -- at times she has seen into the future, certainly not an attribute you would think of a typical Amish girl! Her "intuition" has helped many people but she failed to help the person that mattered the most to her in the world, her sister. In the attempts to save her sister from being in a terrible accident, Rhoda exposed her secret and now many of her community fear her. They fear that she practices witchcraft and tend to ridicule and harass her. For that she has isolated herself in her garden, tending to beloved plants that offer no condemnation.
Through a strange course of events, Rhoda meets the King family. The Kings own an orchard that is struggling and Samuel, the oldest of the King boys, is confident that Rhoda can save their orchard and thus save their family from financial ruin. Though she declines at first, a personal setback causes her to reconsider and in doing so she finds herself developing a strange connection with the entire family.
"Sometimes what keeps a relationship from shattering is minding your own business and enjoying what does exist between the two of you"
I don't want to spill too much about this story because it really is a fantastic story and I'd rather you discover it yourself. But let me say that the characters are wonderfully written. I love characters that evoke emotion in a reader. I found myself being frustrated with Samuel when Rhoda would express irritation. I felt sympathy for Jacob and I might would admit to a book-crush on his character if you pressed the issue enough. I didn't really get to know Eli that much but I'm sure I will get to know him more in later installments. As for Leah, I adored this girl! Her character is struggling to find herself and gets into a bit of trouble at first but towards the end I kept secretly hoping she would get with Rhoda's friend, Landon. I'll be excited to see if my prediction of those two as a couple happens in the future. Too bad Rhoda isn't here to feel things out for me, right?
*********
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
*********
In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?
Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.
Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.
Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.
Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?
**********
May 18, 2017
I know what you are thinking. What is a dude my age doing reading Amish novels? Well, about three years ago I discovered this book in the library and at the time I didn't realize Amish fiction was even a thing so I was curious and decided to give it a read. Honestly, I found myself drawn to the simple life depicted in the novels. Not simple in terms of human relationships but simple in terms of living a life close to the land mostly sans modern technology. There is a part of me that is drawn to this kind of life. As someone who wrote his MA thesis on Thoreau and regards the writings of John Muir as sacred as the Judeo-Christian bible, perhaps one can see the connection. Of course I enjoy modern technology but increasingly we are becoming a race of people enslaved to our little mobile devices. On more than one occasion I've been at a restaurant and have witnessed a family a four slouched in their seats, all faces glued to their phones with zero human interaction occurring until it's time to order. Rhoda and her family engage with one another and the land they farm. Heck, this book even has a little of the sixth sense in it! So I enjoyed these aspects of the story very much. Criticisms? Woodsmall writes waaaaaaay too many sentences as questions inside the mind of characters and the romance and the interpersonal relationships are a little too oversimplified at times.
May 14, 2020
The longer it has been since I finished this book, the more I am annoyed by it. There is just way to much drama which is not what I'm looking for when I pick up an Amish romance. In this book alone: a character grapples with the murder of a sibling, the main character has various visions/intuitions, an elderly neighbour almost dies and has to be rescued thanks to aforementioned visions which resolves a feud that was also touched on, underage partying/drinking, stereotypical Rumspringa questioning, a pregnancy scare, vandalism of a garden, family financial pressures, job loss, a tornado that destroys a house and orchard, the threat of losing the family farm, an accident that leads to a coma, a brother with ~big secrets~, insurance fraud, the start of a love triangle that no one wanted or asked for (#teamCatherine), allegations of witchcraft, and the groundwork laid for a cross-state move and establishment of new Amish community. Like that is a lot in one book. Any one of those topics could have been a whole story on their own! I was surprised to find out that this is considered one of the more popular Amish fiction authors, because it felt like she hadn't spend much time around the Amish and the writing felt very unrealistic and highly improbable. I have much preferred the Beverley Lewis and Beth Wiseman books in this genre. All that being said I will probably continue with the series because I want to find out what happens next...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2018
This story will keep you guessing when it comes to romance. One minute you think there is a attraction between characters that will turn into something, the next minute you are not so sure. The only issue I had with this story was with Rhoda's "gut feelings". She and her family believed it to be a gift from God. The problem I have is that Rhoda sees and hears her dead sister Emma telling her how to help people. God is not going to use dead people. As the series continues, I'm hoping to discover that she is seeing and hearing Emma because she suffering from depression caused by Emma's death. If you enjoy reading books that are part of a series, you will like A Season For Tending. There are loose ends when the book draws to a close. I am going to have to patiently wait, how I don't know, for the next book in the series to get some answers to my questions. This was a book that I found hard to put down. I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah for my honest review.
August 10, 2017
Typical intelligently-written and engaging Cindy Woodsmall story. I have loads of hang-ups with the Amish perspective, from a purely logical standpoint, but Ms. Woodsmall keeps me coming back to this genre anyway. The Amish way of life just naturally presents a hotbed for conflict, as their ways bump up against those of the Englisch. This makes for seemingly endless drama.
A number of interesting scenarios are set up in this first of a series. I'll no doubt be coming back for more ... once I finish with the pile of unrelated literature I recently acquired from the library.
Erratum: Dogs have smooth, not "scratchy" tongues (p. 31). A person cannot chuckle words (last line on p. 210). Rhoda's brothers did not live 24 hours together under the same roof most days--they spent a good part of their lives working outside the home (p. 220).
A number of interesting scenarios are set up in this first of a series. I'll no doubt be coming back for more ... once I finish with the pile of unrelated literature I recently acquired from the library.
Erratum: Dogs have smooth, not "scratchy" tongues (p. 31). A person cannot chuckle words (last line on p. 210). Rhoda's brothers did not live 24 hours together under the same roof most days--they spent a good part of their lives working outside the home (p. 220).
March 28, 2020
I love Cindy Woodsmall’s books this one just was a little short of the 5 star for me. There is a lot of drama and characters just busyness to keep track of, but still very enjoyable.
Rhoda is a talented gardener and herbalist, but with those gifts also a feeling of premonition that comes on her. Some people in her old Amish order think she is a witch. She withdraws into her own little world of her business canning and selling her berries and jam as Rhode side stands, making it quite profitable.
The other part of the book introduces us to Samuel King who is attempting to hold his family apple business together. The book tends to go back and forth
Between the two families every other chapter.
First in the Amish vines and orchards series. I can’t wait for the next one. She left this with a total cliffhanger at the end.
Rhoda is a talented gardener and herbalist, but with those gifts also a feeling of premonition that comes on her. Some people in her old Amish order think she is a witch. She withdraws into her own little world of her business canning and selling her berries and jam as Rhode side stands, making it quite profitable.
The other part of the book introduces us to Samuel King who is attempting to hold his family apple business together. The book tends to go back and forth
Between the two families every other chapter.
First in the Amish vines and orchards series. I can’t wait for the next one. She left this with a total cliffhanger at the end.
June 12, 2024
Amish woman Rhoda is considered a witch by others in the Amish community because she uses herbs to help heal illnesses. She also has a berry patch that produces more fruit than normal thanks to her ways of using mulch and compost. But the main reason others shun her and fear her is because of her "premonitions". She sees things in the future before they happen.
When she meets Samuel King he asks her to partner with him and his family with their orchard business. They want her to can apples that can't be sold for eating as sauces and jellies.
Rhoda and the King family don't always agree which causes friction with their business partnership.
This is an interesting look into how the Amish live their lives without modern conveniences and don't like dealing with personal conflicts within their community.
When she meets Samuel King he asks her to partner with him and his family with their orchard business. They want her to can apples that can't be sold for eating as sauces and jellies.
Rhoda and the King family don't always agree which causes friction with their business partnership.
This is an interesting look into how the Amish live their lives without modern conveniences and don't like dealing with personal conflicts within their community.
January 10, 2019
This is the first book in a series. Rhoda Byler loves tending her garden - berries for canning and herbs for healing. But her neighbors, both Amish and English, believe there's something wrong with her. God has given Rhoda a gift of "knowing" that something bad is about to happen, and He moves her to try to help. Yet, this gift ostracizes her, and she turns to her garden for peace. When Rhoda finds an Amish girl asleep in her garden one morning, things start to change for Rhoda. The girl is the sister of the owner of King's Apple Orchard, and he wants to go into business with Rhoda. That is, if Rhoda can keep secret what makes her different.
As an avid gardener myself, I truly enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to continuing the story in book 2.
As an avid gardener myself, I truly enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to continuing the story in book 2.
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