The Story of Love by Beth Wiseman is book two in her The Amish Bookstore series.

Yvonne Wilson has recently moved to Montgomery, Indiana from Houston, Texas in order to manage the bookstore owned by her Amish friends Eva and Jake. Hopefully, she’ll run into Abraham Byler, a local cop she met previously. Abraham Byler hears that Yvonne is moving to Montgomery and hopes to see her in town. There are a few complications, but love conquers all. Right?

I’ve read, and enjoyed, other books by this author but haven’t read the first in this series. Though I missed the series opener, I was able to completely follow the previous storylines through the backstory provided. The book works well as a standalone. The characters are great, good or bad, love or hate. There are religious themes throughout, which I found inspirational. The plot provided some unexpected suspense and interesting twists. All in all, The Story of Love is a 5 out of 5 star read, and I highly recommend it to all readers of romance, especially Christian romance and/or romantic suspense.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Yvonne Wilson has left her home in Texas and moved to Montgomery, Indiana to work for her Amish friends in their bookstore. Eva has been put on bedrest while waiting for the birth of her and Jake's first child. Jake is busy taking care of the farm, and Yvonne running the bookstore is a blessing to them.
Yvonne feels less pain now over the death of her fiance'. She had met Abraham Byler on an earlier visit to Montgomery, and felt his interest in her, but it was too soon for her.
Abraham left the Amish life before he was baptized so his family can still see/visit with him, for which he is very grateful. Abraham is now a police officer hoping to do good. He, now realizes what he had previously believed regarding the police there was untrue. They are fair to everyone.
Abraham heard Yvonne was back in town and went into the bookstore to see her. He is now dating a very beautiful woman who is attempting to push the relationship faster and further than he would like. She, also heard about Yvonne and paid her a visit in the bookstore to stake her claim on Abraham.
Abraham ends up 'running into' Yvonne quite a bit, and helping her at her house. His 'girlfriend' Brianna, has a very bad temper which is beginning to come out. She tries to temper it but wants what she wants more than anything, and what she currently wants is Abraham.
Abraham wants to break things off with Brianna, but doesn't want her or anyone to think it has anything to do with his feelings for Yvonne. He doesn't even know if Yvonne feels the same way. He does know he doesn't wish to pursue a relationship with Brianna.
A stray dog shows up at Yvonne's house, and what transpires there is very sweet and unexpected.
I fear if I continue to type that I'm going to give the entire story away. This is a very warm and sweet story.
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Zondervan through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

Not your ordinary Amish Romance but more of a fatal attraction Amish. Or more recently an Amber Heard head games. The first book The Bookseller’s Promise, Yvonne Wilson had not only made a business deal in finding a rare book but had developed a special friendship with the Amish bookstore owner Jake Lantz. Now that Jake is married and his wife Eva are expecting their first child, Jake has offered Yvonne a job at the bookstore. Moving from Texas to Indiana was a big step for Yvonne. She had lost her fiancé to a terrible accident but in her brokenness, drew near to God in faith.

Coming back to Indiana she was looking forward to a friendship with a former Amish man turned police officer Abraham Byler. A man that she had briefly connected with when she had first met the Lantz.

Abraham knew his connection with Yvonne was bad timing due to the loss she suffered. He had written her a letters when she had went back to Texas and never received a reply. Even though he could not get Yvonne out his mind, he knew he probably would never see Yvonne again and moved on with Brianne.

Brianne left New York suddenly to have a new start and she was determined to have this start with Abraham and she would make sure the new manager at the Amish bookstore knows that Abraham is off limits.

I would say that if you are a die hard Amish reader, this may put you off. Brianne is psycho, forward, and seductive. Abraham is in another bad timing place in his life. Growing up Amish, he has instilled the values that they live by. The contrast between that is what makes this book work for me. He is very much attracted to Yvonne and wants to be her friend. Helping her and keeping that balance of being taken, and knowing what is wrong and what is right. Yvonne does not want to the girl that takes someone else's boyfriend so she too is trying to find the balance.

There is so much underlying issues that included manipulation, faith, redemption, and a sweet dog that saved the day. I hope there is another to the series.

A special thank you to Zondervan and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

Yvonne is a Texas gal, used to living in a fairly large city, but it’s time for a change after the death of her fiancé. She is moving to Montgomery, Indiana1 to manage an Amish-owned bookstore for her friends, Jake & Eva.

Former Amish, Abraham Byler has been a police officer for some years having left his Amish community at age 19. He met Yvonne at her friends’ wedding and was immediately attracted. Three months ago, he began dating Brianna, a very attractive but “pushy” woman. But now that Yvonne has moved to Montgomery … And Brianna is determined to keep Abraham to herself.

Then he is involved in a domestic dispute shooting and his world changes even more.

My review …
Brianna is the type of woman that men can usually see through and promptly run away from. She’s like that old joke about the dog who chases cars but hasn’t thought about what he would do if he actually caught one. Abraham is a Godly man and Brianna is — well, whatever it takes to get her way she is willing to do. And frankly, Abraham lacks the dating skill set to tell her to get lost.

“The Story of Love” has an Amish setting but could be considered a clean contemporary romance. It takes place in around Christmas. It’s a sweet story about two people who meet and are attracted to each other but the timing is off.

There’s a mystery here too. As the story moves along, someone is definitely stalking Yvonne.

So – the plot is a bit different in neither of the two main characters are members of the Amish community. And the characters – well, having a “Brianna” adds a distinct change as she dresses like she is going to an affluent country-club function. She looks good, and probably smells good, but don’t trust her.

I did appreciate this story and its twists and turns. I believe you will too. Okay, okay, okay. There is a dog in it who worms his way into Yvonne’s heart. I’m a sucker for dog-in-the-book.

Oh — here’s what the fine print at the bottom of the cover says …
“This compelling unpredictable romance between two strong characters with complicated lives plays out beautifully, one unexpected turn after another.” —Patricia Davids, USA TODAY bestselling author of Amish romance.

I am finding it hard to pinpoint why I am not rating the book with 5 stars, but I’m pretty sure it has to do with Abraham’s change of heart about his vocation.

I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of “The Story of Love” via NetGalley from the publisher, Zondervan Fiction, Zondervan. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 4 stars
#TheStoryofLove #NetGalley #BethWiseman

1. Montgomery, Indiana is a real town with a population of 343 as of the 2010 census. And yes, the Amish do live in the vicinity. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montgomery,_Indiana.

With this series, Beth Wiseman has become one of my favorite writers. I can't do the story justice by trying to describe it further. This story touches my heart and my faith. Even though Yvonne is afraid of dogs, I love how she opens her heart and her home to a stray. I also love how Yvonne and Abraham are strongly attracted to each other, but always try to do the right thing. There is friendship, love, romance, suspense, and a mystery in this wonderful story. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

Another warm but thoughtful novel

I enjoy reading Beth Wiseman's novels and this one was no exception. I read the first book in this series a while ago, but don't think it is necessary to follow the plot of this one. Obviously, this is not great literature, but it gives one a lot to think about -- about how to resolve conflicts between one's upbringing and current reality, how to deal with aggression without compromising one's beliefs and how to believe in God and love. This is a great book to read beside your first fire of the autumn season!

Thank you to the publisher who lent me a time-constrained e-arc via netgalley. This review is optional and my own opinion.

A Wonderful Addition to the Series

The Story of Love is a wonderful addition to Beth Wiseman's Amish Bookstore Novels series! It was such a joy to revisit the characters from book 1 and get to know them better. Reconnecting with Yvonne Wilson and Abraham Byler, and wondering how things would play out in their relationship captivated me from the very first page and kept me from putting it down until I got to the very end.

As Yvonne and Abraham navigated their relationship, they faced unpredictable behaviors of others, a difficult situation in Abraham's job, and some strange occurrences. Each situation they faced had an impact on their relationship. Through it all, Yvonne and Abraham's friendship, honesty with each other, strength and deep faith were key in getting them through everything that came their way. Their story is a perfect combination of romance, faith, and intrigue and is not one to be missed.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book All comments and opinions in this review are strictly my own.

This series gets better with each book! This is a beautifully written story that hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. Yvonne and Abraham's story will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I loved Blue and how he added to the story. Great read!
I received a complimentary copy from Zondervan Fiction via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This book, number two in Wiseman’s Amish Bookstore series, kept my attention from the first word. I literally read it in one day. It can be read as stand alone but reading book one, The Booksellers Promise, would be helpful. And enjoyable.

We met Yvonne in book one and she suffered a severe blow. Book two finds her getting away from her memories and trying something new as well as helping her friends during their time of need. I like Yvonne. She’s strong but vulnerable, and trying to move ahead in life. I also like Abraham, who is trying to find his path as a police officer. Will their paths converge?

A clean romance with mystery and suspense, I was truly surprised by the ending and the twist it took. I certainly didn’t see it coming! If you enjoy contemporary fiction that includes both Amish and English, I highly recommend The Story of Love.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

*The story of love* by *Beth Wiseman*

"I had an enormous crush on you since I first saw you at the bookstore." He kept his eyes fused with her to look away,but she didn't! "Then I saw you at the wedding, I wrote you letters.. but the timing was off." He shrugged. "And now you are my favourite person to spend time with." He still hadn't lost connection as her eyes stayed locked with his. "I guess I am curious to know how you feel about that."

The book is just as it's name. The story of love and that too a sweet one. It's always wonderful to read about Amish culture and traditions.

The handsome police officer Abraham Byler falls head over heels with Texan girl Yvvone Wilson at first sight in a book store. But she already is mending her heart and not in position to reciprocate in healing & recovering stage. Sassy and sultry Newyorker Brianna Stone happens to draw enough attention of Abraham, still he is not moving forward as his heart craves for Yvonne. But life lets one live as per the destiny.

Beth Wiseman has crafted it all lightly in this subtle lovestory. The simplicity of Amish culture and adorability of all characters are profound.

The Indian Reading Duo would like to thank @netgalley, @bethwisemanauthor and @zondervan for the advance complimentary copy of #thestoryoflove
Opinions expressed in the review are completely on our own. Book is publishing tomorrow and grab your copy soon.
Happy Reading Buddies 💕

#theindianreadingduo #thestoryoflove #bethwiseman #fictionbook #lovestory #amishculture #zondervan #netgalley #romcomnovels

The Amish tradition always holds a fascination for me and this book being in a semi-Amish setting held enough interest for me to want to read its pages. The most stand-out feature of the Amish way I gleaned from this story was that of close-knit community, which also has its advantages and disadvantages. However, this is portrayed in a more positive light in this Story of Love.

Speaking of 'love'...this is most definitely a romance novel and rather involves a love triangle of sorts with Abraham, Brianna and Yvonne. Extracating himself was not an easy feat for Abraham and it did produce a misleading conflicting result. The aftermath of this, co-mingled with an aftermath from an incident of his on-the-job police work, also threw a diverting wrench into the works.

I did experience disappointment however, that there were a bit of "too thirsty" goings on between Abraham's alliances with each girl, although it remained 'clean'. It seemed somewhat 'un-Amish' unless I don't know much. It was not quite as 'chaste' as I would have expected. Of course, that may just be me. Overall, it was ok, for a romance novel.

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

August 2022

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Book two in The Amish Bookstore series picks up right where book one ended. In the Bookseller's Promise (book 1), we meet Yvonne Wilson and Abraham Byler. In The Story of Love (book 2), we join them on their journey and get to know them a bit more.
I loved this book. Beth Wiseman is one of my favorite authors, and this book is proof of why. I couldn't put the book down - nor did I want to. I am excited for book three to be released.

This is book 2 in The Amish Bookstore Novels by Beth Wiseman. We see characters from the previous book, Yvonne Wilson as she moves from Texas to Indiana to manage the bookstore that Eva and Jake own. We also once again meet Abraham Byler, who has left the Amish to become a police officer. They have met before and will a second meeting bring about second chances for them? There are many surprises that pop up in this book which makes it an interesting read. You will not want to stop reading it until you finish the book, find out how mysteries are solved and if new relationships form.

I received a copy of this book from Zondervan and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.

A cute story of misunderstandings and competitive natures and the issues that can happen when they mix.

Loved this book! Loved the Yvonne and Abraham and their relationship! I especially enjoyed the addition of Blue to the story. Honestly, even I was a little scared when he would start barking and growling at night. That was a surprise twist!
Keep up the good work!

Beth Wiseman did an AMAZING job with this novel! I absolutely loved the first novel in this series, and this was no different! I really got engrossed into the lives of the characters especially Yvonne, and Abraham. I loved the feeling of the darkness and drama with the other girl involved in the novel. I definitely would love to see more novels in this series and am very interested in reading more of Beth's novels. I love that she uses real life examples and builds stories around that and makes it feel more probable.

This is a beautiful story. It is the second book in the series. Yvonne Wilson wants a slower life style and makes a move to work at Eva and Jake's bookstore. So nice to learn more about Eva and Jake after their marriage. This book focuses on Yvonne and Abraham. I love the twists and bit of mystery to this book.. Love the dog Blue and how he fits into the book. Thanks NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and give my opinion.

The 2nd book in The Amish Book Store series and the author has really out did herself with this book. A bit of mystery and suspense with a dose of love.
Yvonne has moved from Texas to Montgomery, Indiana after friends asked her to help run the bookstore while Eva is put on bedrest and Jake's father has taken ill and he must work the farm. Yvonne is ready for this fresh start after losing her fiance in a traumatic accident almost a year ago.
Abraham, the Amish police officer who met Yvonne in 1st book took a strong liking to her, but letters he wrote to her in Texas were unanswered. Now he is dating the beautiful CPA Brianna but still thinks of Yvonne.
An incident at work puts these ladies in the cross hairs of Abraham's affection. He struggles with his Amish roots, career, love and the life choices to be made.
I received an advanced copy of this book through the publisher for the sole purpose of review. My rating for this book is strictly my personal opinion and not influenced by publisher or author.

Book 2 in Beth Wiseman's Amish Bookstore series has a love triangle surrounding former Amish man, Abraham Byler. Also returning from book 1 is Yvonne Wilson, who befriended bookstore owners Jake & Eva in her quest to buy a valuable book from Jake.. She failed in her quest due to Jake's promise to his grandfather, but in the process made strong friendships.

Following the death of her fiancé, Yvonne Wilson has nothing holding her to Texas so she takes Jake Lantz up on his offer of a job in his family bookstore. She loved her time in Montgomery, IN, and has the added incentive of seeing Abraham Byler again. Even though they 'clicked', Yvonne's loss was too fresh. Is there still anything there with Abraham, or has she returned too late.

Abe fell hard for Yvonne when he met her and it was a blow to learn she was engaged. When her fiancé dies in a plane crash, Abe tries to be the friend she needs while keeping his heart under wraps. He writes letters to her after she returns home to Texas but when she doesn't respond, he finally gives up and begins dating Brianna Taylor. They've only been dating about 3 months, and Brianna is pushing for more. When Yvonne returns, he is torn. Will he break things off with the possessive Brianna, even if there isn't a guarantee that Yvonne will agree to even date him?

This story moved surprisingly fast, and let me tell you, Brianna was a little scary. I can't imagine someone coming from the Amish being able to comprehend the lengths she went to in order to keep Abe. I was impressed with Abe's strength of character, as Brianna put him in numerous very compromising positions. I was also impressed with Yvonne. Even though she was interested in exploring a relationship with Abe, as soon as she knew he was seeing someone else, she backed off and kept him firmly in the "friend zone."

Readers who enjoy Amish fiction will enjoy "The Story of Love". Be warned, though, Brianna leaves no doubt that her goal is to get Abe into bed with her, and she aggressively pursues that goal. I loved the story, and I believe others will, too.

Sometimes I just need a sweet, fun Amish book and Beth Wiseman is definitely a go-to author. Great book.