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Customer Reviews for Bethany House Courting Miss Amsel
Bethany House Courting Miss Amsel
Edythe Amsel is delighted with her first teaching assignment: a one-room schoolhouse in Walnut Hill, Nebraska. Independent, headstrong, and a strong believer in a well-rounded education, Edythe is ready to open the world to the students in this tiny community. But is Walnut Hill ready for her?
Joel Townsend is thrilled to learn the town council hired a female teacher to replace the ruthless man who terrorized his nephews for the past two years. Having raised the boys on his own since their parents' untimely deaths, Joel believes they will benefit from a woman's influence. But he sure didn't bargain on a woman like Miss Amsel. Within the first week, she has the entire town up in arms over her outlandish teaching methods, which include collecting leaves, catching bugs, making snow angels, and stringing ropes in strange patterns all over the schoolyard. Joel can't help but notice that she's also mighty pretty with her rosy lips, fashionable clothes, and fancy way of speaking.
Average Customer Rating:
(35 Reviews) 35
Rating Snapshot (35 reviews)
5 stars
24
4 stars
9
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 star
0
34 out of 3597%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Courting Miss Amsel
Review 1 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Not My Cup of Tea
Date:April 8, 2013
KCPryzr
Location:Gilbert, AZ
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
2
out of
5
This book made such an impression on me, that I couldn't remember I had read it before until about halfway through. While I do think author Kim Vogel Sawyer is a very good writer, I couldn't get into this book. I tried and tried to feel something, anything toward the heroine, but couldn't raise any sort of connection with Edythe Amsel.
I thought all of the characters were fairly well developed. I understood the background behind each one, or at least I think I did. Maybe I didn't and that's why I didn't connect. I did like Miss Amsel's teaching methods, and wished my children had teachers like her. I also thought the look into the Women's Right to Vote issue was very well written.
I loved the two little boys, the nephews of Joel Townsend, and thought their personalities were quite charming. I thought Joel was a tad desperate.
There was a twist in the story about halfway through, that even though I wasn't looking for it at first, was fairly predictable, although the character kind of threw me for a loop. I don't want to give it away, but I will say I didn't see this particular character going in quite this direction.
All-in-all, this is definitely not staying on my "Keeper" shelf, but it doesn't mean that I wouldn't love to give author Kim Vogel Sawyer another try.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Review 2 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Such a good story!
Date:September 20, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This was an excellent story: well-developed plot, fast moving, real-life characters. Felt really blessed I got to read it! Thank you, Kim Vogel Sawyer!!
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Review 3 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Date:September 6, 2012
JOkie
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I enjoyed this book very much. Reading about history and period romances is a favorite of mine. We take so much for granted in our lives and to read about a one room school house and the creative ways Miss Amsel would teach her children and how even then the school board questioned her teaching methods. I loved how the story takes it's time with the character falling in love and not rushing into a romance like we have a tendency to do now.
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Review 4 for Courting Miss Amsel
This review is fromCourting Miss Amsel.
Overall Rating:
Date:April 28, 2012
pbrew
Location:Springdale, AR
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Enjoyable and well written. Always appreciate Kim Vogel Sawyer's writing!
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Review 5 for Courting Miss Amsel
This review is fromCourting Miss Amsel.
Overall Rating:
Courting Miss Amsel
Date:February 21, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Courting Miss Amsel is another winning sweet historical romance from Kim Vogel Sawyer. The story moved along nicely, as I waited for each of Edythe's new teaching methods, and the townspeople's reactions. What really set this book apart, though, are the wonderful characters that Kim has created. The town is full of characters who felt very realistic and relate-able.
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Review 6 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Pleasant read, relaxing, perfect for a lazy Sunday
Date:June 27, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I just finished reading Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer. It wasn't until I had finished the book that I realized I had reviewed another of Sawyer's books in the past, In Every Heartbeat. One of the things I really liked about that book was how well-researched it felt, and the flawed, believable characters. This was certainly true of Courting Miss Amsel as well.
Courting Miss Amsel occurs in a totally different time and place -- Nebraska in 1882. I'm drawn to fiction in the plains states, and this one did not disappoint. Sawyer writes as though she has experienced a serious blizzard or two (but why does every story set in this part of the country involve a blizzard? Hmmm...). That is another way of saying, she certainly seems to have captured the spirit of this part of the country.
The basic plot line is that Edythe Amsel comes to this little town in Nebraska to teach school. She's escaping her emotionally abusive father, and although she isn't terribly religious, she clearly feels called to teach. And she's good at it.
Two of her eighteen students are being raised by their bachelor uncle, Joel, and it doesn't take long for Joel to be attracted to the new teacher, and for her to be attracted to him. She doesn't want to be courted, and he doesn't want to be yoked to an unbeliever. So there are definitely some issues.
What I really loved about this story was how believable so many of the characters were. The children were simply precious and I had a picture in my head of each of them. Edythe's landlady has to be my favorite character in the book. I want to be her when I grow up...
This was a pleasant read, relaxing, perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon. I truly enjoyed it.
Disclosure: Bethany House provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. No other compensation was received, and all opinions are my own.
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Review 7 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Courting Miss Amsel
Date:May 25, 2011
Joyfull
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This book was a wonderful story about determination, love and faith. The story is about a women named Edythe who moves to Nebraska for her first teaching position. This book takes place in the 1800's. It tells about her struggles as a new teacher as well as her beginning to fall in love.
There are a few roadblocks along the way, but with God's guidance things have a way of working themselves out. It was an enjoyable read from start to finish. I at times found it hard to put down. I enjoyed Edythe's character as she was strong willed and not afraid to stand up for what she believed in.
She showed the town new ways of educating their children despite their hesitations. Being a teacher myself this book touched my heart and was a very memorable read. I was glad I had the opportunity given to me to read this book. This is the first time I had read anything by this author, but I will be sure to read more of her delightful books.
I received this book for free from Bethany House publishers to review. All views about the book are my own.
There are a few roadblocks along the way, but with God's guidance things have a way of working themselves out. It was an enjoyable read from start to finish. I at times found it hard to put down. I enjoyed Edythe's character as she was strong willed and not afraid to stand up for what she believed in.
She showed the town new ways of educating their children despite their hesitations. Being a teacher myself this book touched my heart and was a very memorable read. I was glad I had the opportunity given to me to read this book. This is the first time I had read anything by this author, but I will be sure to read more of her delightful books.
I received this book for free from Bethany House publishers to review. All views about the book are my own.
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Review 8 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
A fun, relaxing read!
Date:May 20, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Courting Miss Amsel, takes us to Walnut Hill, Nebraska, in the late 1800s, when women still didn't have the right to vote or own property, and Susan B. Anthony is just coming on the scene, speaking on the women's suffrage amendment. However, they ARE allowed to teach, and that is just what the new schoolmarm, Edythe Amsel does best. Instead of just teaching her pupils "the three Rs", Miss Amsel uses unconventional methods to enhance her students' learning pleasure, and quickly arouses the ire of the townsfolk.
When Joel Townsend comes to pick up his two nephews from school, who have been left in his charge, romantic sparks quickly begin to fly between the handsome farmer and the pretty new schoolteacher. Joel wants to provide a mother for his nephews, and falls quickly in love with Edythe. However, too many obstacles stand in their way. Miss Amsel does not share Joel Townsend's faith in God, and wishes only to teach and not be saddled down with an instant family.
Soon Miss Amsel's very existence begins to crumble; Joel becomes engaged to someone else and the townsfolk are discussing removing her from her position. When a disaster occurs will Edythe change her priorities and acknowledge her need for God in her life? Will she give up teaching to follow the women's suffrage movement, and can she stay in the same town near Joel and his new wife?
This book was not one of suspense or hidden secrets, or even unending excitement. What it was, however, was a wonderful story, with a strong, moral, spiritual thread throughout. When I ended up with a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes at the conclusion, I knew that I had just finished a rich, satisfying read.
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Review 9 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Date:May 17, 2011
I completely devoured Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer in two days. Yes. Two days. I was introduced to Kim Vogel Sawyer last year and was really excited to have the opportunity to review this book. It was fantastic!!! I was immediately drawn into the story about a woman moving to a small town in Nebraska to fulfill her dreams of becoming a teacher. Challenged by her students, their parents, the unexpected arrival of her sister, and feelings for one of the bachelors in town, Edythe Amsel must learn to rely on God. The way Sawyer weaves elements of faith and the gospel throughout the story was outstanding. I am a true fan of Kim Vogel Sawyer!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
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Review 10 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Date:May 13, 2011
A new adventure, a new place, many new people…and even a new life? Edyth is delighted with her opportunity to teach the small school in a little prairie town of Nebraska. She can hardly wait to get started – try out all her creative ideas on the young lives that will be a part of her classroom. But what will she do with the challenges presented to her? Parents who do not like her teaching methods, a Christian landlady whose faith confuses her, a past that will not let her go. Can Edyth learn to trust a God of love?
Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a delightful book, full of fun characters and a God who loves and guides through everything life holds. With summer on its way, find yourself a copy, a nice shady tree to sit under and enjoy!
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Review 11 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Date:May 5, 2011
Edythe Amsel is delighted with her first teaching assignment: a one-room schoolhouse in Walnut Hill, Nebraska. Independent, headstrong, and a strong believer in a well-rounded education, Edythe is ready to open the world to the students in this tiny community. But is Walnut Hill ready for her?
Joel Townsend is thrilled to learn the town council hired a female teacher to replace the ruthless man who terrorized his nephews for the past two years. Having raised the boys on his own since their parents' untimely deaths, Joel believes they will benefit from a woman's influence. But he sure didn't bargain on a woman like Miss Amsel. Within the first week, she has the entire town up in arms over her outlandish teaching methods, which include collecting leaves, catching bugs, making snow angels, and stringing ropes in strange patterns all over the schoolyard. Joel can't help but notice that she's also mighty pretty with her rosy lips, fashionable clothes, and fancy way of speaking.
This book started out rather quickly. I was expecting to be bogged down by details of how Edythe came to town and how Joel got his nephews...but neither happened. I was very pleasantly surprised at that. Edythe isn't saved when she moves to Walnut Hill. It's interesting how God has to use something significant in many people's lives to bring them to Him, which is what Sawyer does to Edythe. Kim Sawyer did an excellent job on this book. I heartily give it 5 stars!
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Review 12 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Date:May 1, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Good story, challenging teaching.
When I first started reading this book, I felt a little disappointed because it felt like just another of those romantic novels, which give away the ending in the first chapter. However, I was pleased to discover a moving love story that challenges the reader to see things from a different point of view, and to value the gifts and opportunities that God has given us.
Miss Amsel just graduated and is hired to be the school teacher in a little farm town. Somewhat stubborn and determined, she is full of different ideas and teaching techniques that are warmly welcome by the students, but surprises some parents, particularly because they think children should learn more about country living than spelling or geography. A little bit uncertain of the general reaction, she does find support in her landlady and in Joel Townsend, both of whom have a deep faith and trust in God. Little by little, she carves a niche in the community and becomes well respected, but her heart skips each time she comes across Joel Townsend, or whenever his name is mentioned. The story and their very kind and respectful relationship sticks to school matters, but there is a gripping turn in the second part of the book.
Besides romance, there is also the interest she has on students, inspiring the reader to love and acknowledge how precious children are. I think this is a staple on the author’s writing; the way she depicts a child’s innocence and receptiveness is pictured in such a charming way that it is almost impossible to resist. In this book, Miss Amsel is particularly aware of how her influence as a teacher will shape of her students’ future. It is also remarkable how she manages to make children part of the core of the plot, always determining an outcome in the main story, as well as shaping the traits of main characters. In this sense, this book should be an inspiration to those interested to teach; Miss Amsel is always in search of making knowledge available and enticing for everyone, trying to include all of the students in the activities and being personal, not just a teacher far from them.
Also, the reader gets to know some of Miss Amsel’s past, which has hindered her from living a “normal” life. This part of the plot reminds us that running away from problems, or trying to bury them behind, does not change the past. However, even the most difficult problem will become God’s tool of blessing, if we are willing to trust Him and surrender all to Him.
I am glad to conclude this review by saying that my initial feeling about the book was erred. Even though there are no big surprises in the resolution of the story, the way things develop is thrilling. It will be hard to put his book down!
Bethany House Publishers sent me a complimentary copy of this book, in exchange of an honest review. This did not bias my opinion on the book, nor on the author.
When I first started reading this book, I felt a little disappointed because it felt like just another of those romantic novels, which give away the ending in the first chapter. However, I was pleased to discover a moving love story that challenges the reader to see things from a different point of view, and to value the gifts and opportunities that God has given us.
Miss Amsel just graduated and is hired to be the school teacher in a little farm town. Somewhat stubborn and determined, she is full of different ideas and teaching techniques that are warmly welcome by the students, but surprises some parents, particularly because they think children should learn more about country living than spelling or geography. A little bit uncertain of the general reaction, she does find support in her landlady and in Joel Townsend, both of whom have a deep faith and trust in God. Little by little, she carves a niche in the community and becomes well respected, but her heart skips each time she comes across Joel Townsend, or whenever his name is mentioned. The story and their very kind and respectful relationship sticks to school matters, but there is a gripping turn in the second part of the book.
Besides romance, there is also the interest she has on students, inspiring the reader to love and acknowledge how precious children are. I think this is a staple on the author’s writing; the way she depicts a child’s innocence and receptiveness is pictured in such a charming way that it is almost impossible to resist. In this book, Miss Amsel is particularly aware of how her influence as a teacher will shape of her students’ future. It is also remarkable how she manages to make children part of the core of the plot, always determining an outcome in the main story, as well as shaping the traits of main characters. In this sense, this book should be an inspiration to those interested to teach; Miss Amsel is always in search of making knowledge available and enticing for everyone, trying to include all of the students in the activities and being personal, not just a teacher far from them.
Also, the reader gets to know some of Miss Amsel’s past, which has hindered her from living a “normal” life. This part of the plot reminds us that running away from problems, or trying to bury them behind, does not change the past. However, even the most difficult problem will become God’s tool of blessing, if we are willing to trust Him and surrender all to Him.
I am glad to conclude this review by saying that my initial feeling about the book was erred. Even though there are no big surprises in the resolution of the story, the way things develop is thrilling. It will be hard to put his book down!
Bethany House Publishers sent me a complimentary copy of this book, in exchange of an honest review. This did not bias my opinion on the book, nor on the author.
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Review 13 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Sweet, but Predictable
Date:April 30, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
When Edythe Amsel arrives in Walnut Hill, Nebraska, she intends to put her past behind her and pursue the life she’s always wanted. Providing the children of Walnut Hill with a well-rounded, exciting education is just such a life. All the students, save one, are instantly taken with her, delighted by her new methods.
Unfortunately, many of Walnut Hill’s parents aren’t quite as pleased with the schoolmarm’s unconventional ways. Some of them are leery, others are downright disapproving.
Joel Townsend isn’t one of those parents. Having raised his nephews alone since their parents’ sudden deaths, he’s happy the boys are finally enjoying school. Of course, he can’t help noticing their pretty, kindhearted teacher. But Edythe has made it clear to the entire town she’s there to teach, not be courted.
Unfortunately, many of Walnut Hill’s parents aren’t quite as pleased with the schoolmarm’s unconventional ways. Some of them are leery, others are downright disapproving.
Joel Townsend isn’t one of those parents. Having raised his nephews alone since their parents’ sudden deaths, he’s happy the boys are finally enjoying school. Of course, he can’t help noticing their pretty, kindhearted teacher. But Edythe has made it clear to the entire town she’s there to teach, not be courted.
As the story progress, Edythe’s attempts at building a new life in Walnut Hill begin to crumble. Her plans are muddled by an unexpected visitor, past wounds reopening, the stirring unease in the school children’s parents, and unintended attraction.
Joel is dealing with his own set of troubles, as he struggles with a heavy work load, broken heart, and mounting impatience.
Through these circumstances, both must learn to deepen their faith and listen to what God is telling them.
Courting Miss Amsel is a sweet story, well written, set in a picturesque town, complete with a charming cast of characters and a wholesome romance.
That said, I found the book’s lessons and storyline very predictable, and a bit cliché. I was able to determine the main outcome of the story long before the end. Although I had never read Courting Miss Amsel, before, I felt as though I had. It’s a good book, though had it been less foreseeable, it would have been better.
If you’re looking for a gripping, unpredictable tale to keep you glued to the pages, Courting Miss Amsel doesn’t meet those requirements.
But if you’re searching for an enjoyable, pleasant, more conventional story, Courting Miss Amsel should fit the bill. It certainly made some good points in a delightfully scenic way; I just prefer to read more surprising stories. I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
Joel is dealing with his own set of troubles, as he struggles with a heavy work load, broken heart, and mounting impatience.
Through these circumstances, both must learn to deepen their faith and listen to what God is telling them.
Courting Miss Amsel is a sweet story, well written, set in a picturesque town, complete with a charming cast of characters and a wholesome romance.
That said, I found the book’s lessons and storyline very predictable, and a bit cliché. I was able to determine the main outcome of the story long before the end. Although I had never read Courting Miss Amsel, before, I felt as though I had. It’s a good book, though had it been less foreseeable, it would have been better.
If you’re looking for a gripping, unpredictable tale to keep you glued to the pages, Courting Miss Amsel doesn’t meet those requirements.
But if you’re searching for an enjoyable, pleasant, more conventional story, Courting Miss Amsel should fit the bill. It certainly made some good points in a delightfully scenic way; I just prefer to read more surprising stories. I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
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Review 14 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Delightful Read!
Date:April 27, 2011
Allison
Location:Belton, SC
Age:25-34
Gender:female
I was sent a copy of this book for review by the publisher and I loved it! It was a fun, easy read that I hated to see end. It would make a delightful summer vacation read. I'm hoping for a series here!
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Review 15 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Wonderful Read
Date:April 20, 2011
I've read a few of Kim Vogel Sawyer's novels, but I believe Courting Miss Amsel is her best one yet.
Edythe Amsel is the new schoolmarm in Walnut Hill, Nebraska. With a clear vision and passion for her new pupils, she is eager to begin the school year with one purpose: to expand the children's education to ideas and concepts beyond farming and reading. Parents from the community, however, don't share her views on education. As if the irate parents aren't enough, she finds herself in constant battle with one particular child who enjoys causing constant disruptions in class. Will she somehow win the town's approval?
Joel Townsend is both father and mother to his orphaned nephews. Though he's done well in the past, he finds it increasingly harder to maintain both roles. What he needs is a woman who can cook something other than beans every night for his boys. Their new, attractive teacher seems to be the perfect fit. Will he be able to court the new schoolmarm who is not only under fire from the town, but also refuses to be courted?
I loved every moment of this book. As someone who works with and teaches children of all ages, I found the children in this story very three-dimensional and realistic. The situations the heroine encounters are laugh-out-loud hilarious. Miss Sawyer also does an outstanding job creating a heroine who is strong yet humble.
Not only is this one of Mrs. Sawyer's best stories, I believe this novel puts her writing skills on excellent display. She includes a cast of lively secondary characters, and her settings are so vibrant I could almost hear the wooden floorboards of the school-house creak under my feet. To top it off, she introduces food in this novel that left me longing for a cinnamon roll and German pastries. At certain points, in the midst of reading the pastry portion, I could even taste the cinnamon in my mouth.
I highly recommend this novel to anyone who is interested in historical fiction and to anyone who wants to study the craft the of writing. I can't wait to see what Mrs. Sawyer has in store for us in her next novel.
I received this book free from Bethany House publishers for the purpose of reviewing it. They did not pay me to write a good review
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Review 16 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
A Romantic, Exciting Historical Journey
Date:April 19, 2011
clbarton20
Location:Blacksburg, VA
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I received a free copy of “Courting Miss Amsel,” by Kim Vogel Sawyer from Bethany House Publishing and it was a great read. It’s a Historical Fiction story of a young woman who moves to a new town to escape her past and make a new future for herself as a teacher. Throughout the story you walk with Miss Amsel, Edythe, through new experiences, relationships, and opportunities. Sometimes in life, tragedies are what bring us to the point of letting go and giving God complete control of our lives, and that is what Edythe realizes. I could not put this book down while I was reading it. I was so intrigued to find out what else was going to unfold. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. It has a great mixture of love, Jesus and history.
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Review 17 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
A Timeless, Historical, Christian Romance - A must
Date:April 17, 2011
Marie Ralston
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Courting Miss Amsel is definitely a must read! It is a page turner that is fast paced and intriguing from beginning to the end. The story follows a first year, turn of the century, teacher that has always dreamed of teaching in small town. When Edythe Amsel's dreams come true and she lands a job in Walnut Hill, Nebraska, she believes that she is leaving her past behind her and beginning a new life. But as she quickly discovers her past and her dreams are anything but separate. Having already raised her brothers and sister, Edythe wants nothing more than to be a teacher and demonstrate to her students that learning can be fun and intriguing, but when several suitors begin to go after the school teacher's frozen heart, it will take an act of God to melt and mold it into His purpose and will.
Another problem quickly arises due to Miss Amsel's progressive teaching style. From the start the town wonders how this teacher's new teaching methods will work. Many wonder how looking at bugs and planting seeds for science is learning, after all. The town folks eventually begin to accept this their schoolmarm, but when Edythe Amsel decides to take a field trip to hear Miss Susan B. Anthony speak on women's right, that might be just to much for Walnut Hill.
Overall this is an excellent book! I can honestly say I enjoyed Kim Vogel Sawyer. She developed characters and plots that were engaging and heartwarming. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this book. My one critique of this book, speaking from an elementary teacher's point of view, is that the methods that Edythe Amsel uses were not invented until about twenty or more years after the time period of this book. For me this was a small annoyance as Miss Amsel dealt with many problems as a modern teacher would and not as a teacher living during the early 1900s would have. I think that overall, this is a must read!
For reviewing this book, I received a copy of it from Bethany House Publisher.
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Review 18 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
A WONDERFUL HISTORICAL ROMANCE!
Date:April 12, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Edythe Amsel is a young self-sufficient woman who is striking out on her own. She is hired for her first job as teacher for the town of Walnut Hill, Nebraska. She is determined not to become romantically involved as doing so would interfere with her goals. Her resolve in this area is tested when she meets, Joel Townsend, the uncle of 2 of her students. Not her intellectual equal by any means but a good Christian man raising his two orphaned nephews. Joel is equally enamored but also cautious after having his heart broken by another woman.
Edythe faces her ideas of discipline challenged by one boy and her innovative teaching confronted by the parents. She was very much ahead of her time in finding creative ways to help her students learn.
Mrs. Kinsley, her elderly Christian, landlady gives her support and love to face all her struggles. Most importantly she teaches Edythe about God and His love for her. She gently guides Miss Amsel through example and prayer to find the real answers she needs. Edythe’s confusion and search for God reminded me much of myself when I am trying to do things in my own strength.
Edythe experiences a roller coaster of emotions, tragedy, danger and heartaches, but shows great courage and character. All this is not in vain because her independent spirit is tested and she learns to trust God and what is truly important in her life.
It is wonderful to read a wholesome Christian romance novel. The book was fast paced, and full of surprises. I enjoyed this book very much and look forward to reading more of Ms. Sawyer’s books.
I have received this from book Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
Edythe faces her ideas of discipline challenged by one boy and her innovative teaching confronted by the parents. She was very much ahead of her time in finding creative ways to help her students learn.
Mrs. Kinsley, her elderly Christian, landlady gives her support and love to face all her struggles. Most importantly she teaches Edythe about God and His love for her. She gently guides Miss Amsel through example and prayer to find the real answers she needs. Edythe’s confusion and search for God reminded me much of myself when I am trying to do things in my own strength.
Edythe experiences a roller coaster of emotions, tragedy, danger and heartaches, but shows great courage and character. All this is not in vain because her independent spirit is tested and she learns to trust God and what is truly important in her life.
It is wonderful to read a wholesome Christian romance novel. The book was fast paced, and full of surprises. I enjoyed this book very much and look forward to reading more of Ms. Sawyer’s books.
I have received this from book Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 19 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Date:April 12, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
A schoolteacher and a man trying to raise his two nephews on his own, a perfect combination or is someone too proud to accept the other? Well written and fun to read, this book takes you back to the time of small country towns and one-room schools.
Edythe Amsel comes to Walnut Hill, Nebraska for her first teaching assignment. Excited and ready to teach she makes it clear that she is not ready to take on any family responsibility. Having helped raise her siblings the last thing she wants is a ready-made family. However, she starts to second-guess that decision after she meets Joel Townsend and the two nephews he is raising on his own. The boys are great students and a joy to be around. Of course, the fact that their Uncle Joel is causing her heart to flutter doesn’t help the situation very much!
How long can they fight their feelings? Will Joel really marry the friendly Maribelle Jenkins even though he can’t stop thinking of the schoolteacher? Will Edythe leave before they can figure out what their connection is? Read this book and enjoy the journey back to the 1880’s in Nebraska!
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Review 20 for Courting Miss Amsel
Overall Rating:
Date:April 11, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I have read books by Kim Vogel Sawyer before, so I was excited to be offered Courting Miss Amsel from Bethany Publishers. The complimentary books I receive from Bethany are in exchange for my honest review.
Courting Miss Amsel is about a young schoolmarm. Edythe has left her home to teach school in a one-room schoolhouse. She left her younger sister Missy with their brother, and walked away from her dad, a selfish man who cares nothing for his children. The school's last teacher was a harsh taskmaster who disciplined the children when they failed to understand a concept in their studies. Edythe would rather teach from a positive standpoint, so she breaks the switch used for correction and promise to never use corporal punishment. Her students are overjoyed. One student, however, takes advantage of the promise and stirs up trouble on a continual basis. Edythe is faced with his antics, plus school board members that question her unusual ways of teaching. When they see sticks in the school yard with rope strung across them, they think the teacher is nuts. What they fail to see is a simple and fun way to teach longitude and latitude.
I really enjoyed this book. It was neat to read about a teacher who goes outside the box to teach her students. Kim Vogel Sawyer did a great job keeping me questioning... will Edythe be fired from her job? Will she trust that not ever father is like her own? Will she learn to trust God? How will she continue teaching her students when one child is determined to make things chaotic? And what would I do if I were in Edythe Amsel's shoes?
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