The newest book from the author is a like a sweet melody with words. Her characters blend well together and capture a story of friendship and love.

The Amish have very different beliefs than most and I found it amazing that they weren’t allowed to play an instrument. Levi has secretly played piano since he was a child. His hands sweep across the keys with compassion, but he starts to wonder if he is going against what the bishop has said. It would be so hard to have a gift but not be able to use it. I liked how Levi continually asked a God to show him if he was to play or walk away from it in order to be obedient.

Mary is a wonderful young woman who has known Levi since they were children. I liked how Levi and Mary reconnected after years apart. They have come back together to help out sweet Adeline. Oh how I loved this elderly woman. She was my favorite character because she had so much love to give. She has been lonely for awhile and when these young people show up to help her, it made my heart fill with joy.

Natalie is a little more complicated and I struggled at times trying to like her. She is sent by her mother to spend time with Adeline, who is related to them. It doesn’t hurt that she begins a friendship with Mary and Levi as they get together on Saturdays to do chores for Adeline. As she started to spend quality time with Adeline I could feel her heart soften .

The ending of the story is filled with emotion and shows how valuable it is to reach out to others in their time of need. Adeline not only brings three young people together but gains a family in the process. Her heart is happy as they bond and become like her children. I won’t spoil anything but I will say this is the best book I’ve read by the author. Her heart and soul went into this story and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

This is the beginning of a new series by Beth Wiseman, and if this book is any indication, it’s going to be a wonderful series. It was refreshing to read a book in which the younger generation sacrificed their time and resources to honor a member of the older generation. Mary, Natalie, and Levi came together to help Adeline, a senior citizen who desperately needed their help. A strong bond of friendship develops among the four. There’s also a budding romance between Mary and Levi, which only adds to the sweetness of this story. Mary and Levi are Amish; Natalie is an Englisher; and this sets up a nice theme of working together and truly respecting their different lifestyles. There’s also another theme of following God as He leads, even though it might not be in a direction that was hoped.

There’s some struggles in this story, too. There’s economic differences between Mary and Levi’s families, as well differences in lifestyle in their Amish communities. The author did a great job of handling all these differences in a gentle way which made this book all the more appealing. Not all the loose ends are tied up at the end of this book, and I’m looking forward to following this series to see what happens with some of the main characters.

Beth Wiseman begins her latest series, An Amish Journey with the beautifully crafted and aptly titled Hearts in Harmony. What a selfless journey Mary, Levi and Natalie take as they form an unlikely friendship that is built on compassion and respect for their elderly friend Adeline. I absolutely loved the different ages, faiths and backgrounds of the main characters and the bond they formed while giving so much of themselves to one who really needed them.

I became emotionally attached to the characters but Levi was my favorite and the one I wanted a lifetime of happiness for most of all. I loved the way Mary and Levi are reunited as young adults after a chance meeting when they were children and yet very little has changed because they both still love music which is forbidden in their strict districts. The author portrays them as respectful talented people who want to play music and sing Christian songs but yet want to remain true to their values and beliefs which is a very fine line for them.

The storyline is an emotional one that at times had me smiling and at times in tears and most importantly made me realize that the author clearly writes quality Amish fiction. This is one of my favorite books penned by Beth Wiseman and I cannot wait to read the second book in the series. I highly recommend this 5-star book.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.

Hearts in Harmony by Beth Wiseman is the first An Amish Journey Novel. Mary Hershberger encountered young Levi Shetler eight years ago at the funeral of Englischer Percy Collins when she discovered him playing the piano. Adeline Collins is having an estate sale which drew the attention of Mary’s father and Levi’s mother. Levi is volunteered to help fix up the outside of Adeline’s home when his mother notices its deteriorated condition. Mary can see that Adeline could use some help around the house and that she is unable to get out on her own. On Saturday’s Mary and Levi meet at Adeline’s and become friends. They learn that they both love music with Levi being gifted on the piano and Mary has a lovely singing voice. Unfortunately, their communities do not allow them to play instruments or sing Christian music. They question why these things are not allowed seeking a deeper understanding. Neither Levi nor Mary have been baptized and they will soon need to make a choice. Adeline appreciates the help from Levi and Mary, but she especially loves their companionship. One day Adeline is surprised by a visit from Natalie, a relative from Percy’s side of the family. Soon Natalie is visiting on a regular schedule and helps provide comfort to Adeline. God has brought these four people together for a reason. Join them on their journey in Hearts in Harmony.

Hearts in Harmony is the first book in An Amish Journey series. Adeline lives in Shoals, Indiana where she has been having financial troubles since the passing of her beloved husband, Percy. Adeline is a sweet Christian woman who has become isolated in the last eight years. Her health is declining, and she can no longer drive. Mary and Levi enter Adeline’s life which is answer to Adeline’s prayers. She is thankful for their company. Adeline is further blessed when Natalie, a cousin from Percy’s side of the family, begins visiting. Adeline is not the only person to benefit from the arrangement. These four individuals were brought together for a reason as we see in Hearts in Harmony. I liked that the younger people were willing to help Adeline. They were kind, caring and helpful. They were never impatient with her and they genuinely cared for Adeline (a shame we do not see more of this in our world). Adeline was such a sweet, wholesome woman. She is a character that you cannot help but love and root for. It was interesting to see the differences between Mary and Levi’s districts. One district was more lenient than the other because of the bishop in charge. There was also a financial disparity between Mary and Levi’s families. Perceptions, kindness, friendships, music and faith are some of issues addressed in Hearts in Harmony. I liked that Levi and Mary asked those in authority about why they are not allowed to play instruments or sing. Individualism is not allowed (which I find odd since we are all unique individuals). Christian elements are woven into the story. I did feel there was a lack of character development and descriptions of the area. I wish the author had taken the time in the beginning to establish the characters. I found the pacing of the story to be slow (it needed a little pep in its step). Hearts in Harmony could have used some judicious editing. It was too long and needed to be tightened up (would have made it a stronger story). Hearts in Harmony is an amiable story with a delightful ending.

Take a trip to Amish country with Beth Wisman’s new series, An Amish Journey! I’m telling you now that you will not be disappointed! Along with Wanda Brunstetter, Beverly Lewis and Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman is among my top five Amish fiction authors. She creates powerful stories filled with easy-to-love characters and intricately woven messages throughout. Hearts In Harmony is the fantastic start to this new series and every minute had me completely engulfed in the center of the simple life.

Wiseman’s characters are beautiful in this story. I loved Adeline, Mary, Levi and Natalie all so much! The way Wiseman wove their stories, and interlocked them was exquisite and captivating! Levi was my absolutely favorite among them. He has a passion that he has to hide because it’s forbidden but his heart wants to soar with harmony with it. I rooted for him for his passion and his growing affection for Mary through the story.

With a few twists and turns thrown into the story along the way, this plot line will leave you hungering for more amazing Wiseman talent. This is a story of finding God’s true will for oneself, and finding a little love and hope along the way. This story will fill your heart to overflowing with tender words and characters that become life long friends.

If you are a fan of Wanda Brunstetter, Beverly Lewis, and Amy Clipston, I highly recommend you seek this one out and then share it with all your book loving friends. Wiseman has another hit selling series on her hands, for sure. Four stars and two thumbs up, this one is a keeper in my book! Can’t wait for book two.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

A chance meeting of two Amish children at a funeral 8 years prior are reunited when they offer to help the elderly widow. They along with a distant cousin of the widow’s husband, bring joy and family that she had been lacking.
The Amish live 40 miles apart, but when you compare their lives it seems like 100 years, the districts are so different, one progressive and the other, well! This being said, one of the funniest parts of this book happens at the home of the less modern, Levi! Laugh out loud moment.
I loved how these three-showed compassion to their fellow man, and decided to do one of the hardest things, care giving.
We see that these three all live differently, but the family dynamics are not all that dissimilar.
A story full of love, tears, and a few good laughs.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.

An unexpexted bond is formed between an older lady, two Amish young adults and a young lady who longs to go to college. Levi is embarressed by is large Amish family. Mary's family is struggling with a secret that everyone in the community will find out soon enough. Friendship is formed in the unexpected and unlikely in this Amish novel.

A piano. Such an odd thing that was used to bring 2 amish people together. Odd because musical instruments were not allowed in their beliefs. But as Levi and Mary met the day of Percy's (Adeline's husband) funeral as children it was the piece that brought them together. Years later they were brought together again to help sweet Adeline. Natalie, a long distant relative of Adeline, also became quick friends with them and they were all a beautiful and sweet family that Adeline had always longed for.
This book was filled with love, kindness, and caring for others. It was so nice to read about young adults helping an elderly woman out of the goodness of their hearts, no ulterior motives, although that was exactly what Natalie's mother wanted. But luckily Natalie did not want that and she was a sincerely kind young lady.
Hearts in Harmony definitely tugs at your heart strings throughout the entire book. Beth Wiseman has definitely outdone herself with this book.

Box of Tissues warning. You will need them almost from the beginning. This book is beautiful; the love flowing throughout (not just romantic love) makes you believe in the good in the world amidst so much hate we hear constantly on the news. I did not want to put this book down. I found myself reading every little chance I got. Adeline, Mary, Levi, and Natalie felt like friends I had had for life.

Hearts in Harmony is about so much more than the love of forbidden music. It is about doing what is right and loving others for who they are not what they can give or provide you. Mary, Levi, and Natalie show us that being selfless and helping those who need it is what life is about. You can have all the money and possessions on the world but without love you have nothing.

I have already noted in my calendar when the second book releases (September 2019) and am anxiously awaiting to read it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

Beth Wiseman opens her new series Amish Journey with the heart-warming novel Hearts in Harmony. Three strangers are brought together as they open their heart and lives to the widow Adeline, and we follow their journey through both laughter and heartbreak as they form an everlasting bond of friendship and love.

We meet Levi as a youngster drawn to the forbidden piano at the funeral for Adeline’s husband, where he demonstrates his natural God-given talent for his amazing talent. He continues to fight the urge to play into his young manhood, knowing that in his Amish district musical instruments are considered prideful and therefore a sin against God.

Mary, a young Amish woman, is dealing with her own family issues, as is the Englisher Natalie. These three young adults take it upon themselves to do all they can to assist the aging Adeline, from yard work, house painting, meals, and even to enjoying jigsaw puzzles together. Adeline easily falls in love with them and they become her “family”. There may even be a budding romance!

The author successfully weaves all of their struggles into a beautifully written saga that leaves the reader yearning for the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan Publishing through NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

3 stars
Hearts in Harmony has many good as well as many bad points. The good pretty much outweighs the bad but I’m still on the fence. Hearts in Harmony is the first in a new series by Beth Wiseman. It is highly possible my problems with the book are due to it being the first in the series; however, I have read many first in a series of books without these issues.
What I liked about this book:
1. I loved the plot of two Amish young adults and one English young adult helping an older woman in need. I really adored the characters of Adeline, Mary, Levi and Natalie.
2. Wiseman knows how to write a book that draws you in and does not let go. I read this book in two days.
3. The Amish are pretty accurately described as well as their differences between districts.

What I did not Like about this book:
1. The character development of the main characters was lacking. The side stories did not have much if any development at all. I figure those plots will be handled in later books but these storylines were handled poorly.
2. Hearts in Harmony was strangely long yet with no real reason for the length. Wiseman forced some plotlines while ignoring others.
3. So much was implied and many assumptions had to be made for some of the decisions made and actions taken within the story.

I think many people will like this book but I am not sure I can recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #HeartsInHarmony #NetGalley #Zondervan

Wow! This is one of the BEST Amish books I've read recently. Beth Wiseman spins the story of 2 young Amish adults, and elderly English woman and her great-niece into a story that is different from the stereotypical Amish romance books currently on the market. Luke and Mary, 2 young Amish adults, struggle with the Amish restrictions on music. English niece struggles with her parents' recent divorce and the effects of that on her life. All 3 young adults meet as they care for and fall in love with a sweet elderly woman who treats each of them as the grandchildren she never had. Wonderful book!!!

"Hearts in Harmony " by Beth Wiseman is the first book in the Amish Journey series. This book tells the story of Levi who is from a strict Amish town and Mary who is from another town which is more liberal. Levi and Mary attended a funeral of Adeline's husband. They went with their families and met each other when they were 10 . They did not see each other for years and then saw each other when Adeline had a estate sale . She needed the money and sold many furniture and other items in her house to survive. After the sale she even slept on the ground. Levi and Mary told Adeline they wanted to see her weekly to help her with yard work and outside chores. Levi had a talent for playing the piano. He was not allowed to play according to the Amish district rules where He lives. He struggled with these rules since He loved to play the piano. Both Levi and Mary where so concerned about Adeline being very old , living alone and trying to survive. What happens with Levi and Mary's relationship? How do they learn to blend the strict vs the liberal Amish rules. ? What happens with Adeline? This book is written in a personal style and the conflicts with the Amish rules, their care and concern for Adeline draws the reader to really enjoy the book. Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. I appreciate it so much.

The first book in Beth Wiseman’s new series “Amish Journeys” was an amazing start to what I am sure will be a fabulous series. As usual, Wiseman does not disappoint. “Hearts in Harmony” is the story of three young people and the friend who brought them together. When Levi was a young child, he was at a funeral for an old family friend, Percy. There was a piano there and he found himself drawn to it. A prodigy, he is able to play it flawlessly. Being Amish however, means that it isn’t allowed. The only one who heard him play is Mary, a young Amish girl from another district. She promises not to tell anyone she saw him play it and they both go home to their own lives. Several years later, they meet again at the same home. Adeline is the widow of Percy, Mary and Levi both spend time with her, trying to help her since she is unable to take care of her home on her own. There they meet Natalie, another young lady who comes to spend time with Adeline. The four of them form a special bond and romance even starts to bloom between Levi and Mary. But will miscommunication, and then Tragedy, drive a wedge between them? And what about the piano? How can they reconcile their beliefs with the music that pours from it?
I adored this book! It was so great. The characters were well developed and the plot kept me wanting more. I laughed out loud more than once and shed a few tears too. I would definitely recommend this story! I received a free copy of this story from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

A wonderful start to a new series! I enjoyed reading about the differences between the two Amish districts. It was like two different worlds but only forty miles apart. Mary, Levi and Natalie were such caring and giving people to help Adeline. This was such a sweet story! Looking forward to the next in the series. Recommended!

A wonderfully warm and sweet story of Adeline, a widow, who is all alone without any children. Her husband had been friends with some of the Amish nearby, and two children have come to help. Levi has come to help paint and do yard work, and Mary has come to help clean and give rides to the store in her buggy. Next comes Natalie, who is the daughter of her husband's nephew. When her health takes on a rough direction, all three young people step up and help her. Hard to put this one down, and one I highly recommend. Great story and author.

Hearts in Harmony is a beautifully written inspirational romance. I enjoyed the plot, characters and writing. Not always a fan of Amish fiction because I find it to predictable. I was surprised to find this book was not. Fans of Amish will certainly enjoy this book. I received an arc from Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.

Hearts in Harmony is the exciting beginning to Beth Wiseman’s series, An Amish Journey. I absolutely loved this story. It is among my favorites that I have read by this author. I enjoyed Levi and Mary. They are two characters that felt connected to. I had to find out what would happen with them next and could not put the book down.
I give Hearts in Harmony a very well deserved five plus stars and I highly recommend it. I can not wait to read the next addition to An Amish Journey series.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

This was a cute, but different story. I liked how both main characters sort of challenged their amish way, at least in the beginning of the book. I liked how they didn't just buy into the reason that was provided to them by the elders, yet still respected their faith. This isn't something that is usually seen in the Amish books.

Mary met Levi when she was ten years old, going to the funeral of her father's Englisch friend. She saw something in him, even at that young age. Eight years later, she meets Levi again at the widow's house, each of them doing favors for their parents. In going to the widow's house, they both befriend the widow, Adeline.

Levi is one of ten siblings and the one who can most be excused from life at his parents' farm. Mary is one of two girls in her family and is going to Adeline's house to help out.

Natalie is Adeline's only relative, but a distant one at that. At the behest of her mother, she shows up to Adeline's place to find Adeline's non-existent money.

Natalie, Mary, and Levi are all close in age and become friends with each other and friends with Adeline. Mary helped Adeline run her errands and took her for outings, Levi painted the outside of her house, and Natalie timed her visits to coincide with Mary and Levi to help out where she could.

When Adeline's health began to decline, the three friends became more and more concerned, until they found her passed out on the kitchen floor. It was more than they could handle, but they discovered they could lean on God's grace.

Beth Wiseman does her research well and knows the Amish culture and how they will mix with the Englisch world. Hearts in Harmony is a book about real people with real problems. This book made me sad in a good way. Adeline's health problem was the same problem my mother had when she died. Her decline mirrored my mother's that I cried once again for the loss of my mother.

I want to thank Zondervan Fiction for allowing me to read and review this book. It is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and a buggy ride to the beach.