Return to the Big Valley

Three Brunstetter authors offer three new stories of love, hope, and faith in Amish Pennsylvania with “Wilma’s Wish,” “Martha’s Miracle,” and “Alma’s Acceptance.”

Wilma Hostetler wants nothing more than to start a family with her beloved, Israel Zook. She looks to her friend Deanna for inspiration as her wedding date approaches. Deanna’s positivity throughout the many trials her life has handed her shines through as a beacon of hope to her dear friend.

Wanda E. Brunstetter brings us “Wilma’s Wish,” a story about hope, love, and overcoming loss. There are moments in life that seem unfair. Some are life-altering. It’s what we do in these moments that matters. When loss in her fiance’s family drastically changes the life they had planned, Wilma’s unsure she can endure and see the marriage through. Their futures will be much different than they both intended. The love they have for each other is strong, but can it overcome this obstacle?

Trying to do the right thing while dealing with meddling family members, well-meaning friends, and busybody gossips, Wilma feels overwhelmed and knows that only one thing can fix what’s damaged, but to do this she will have to swallow her pride and face possible rejection.

Sometimes all it takes to mend what’s broken is speaking the truth. Can they finally speak the truth that is in their hearts?

Jean Brunstetter, Wanda’s daughter-in-law, follows with a story about young Martha, who is headstrong and enjoys hunting and the outdoors. In this and many ways she is different from other women in her Amish community. She connects with a young firefighter named Glen who is considering leaving the Amish faith. She will have to choose between her way of life and following her heart if she is to seek a relationship with him in “Martha’s Miracle.”

Richelle Brunstetter, Jean’s daughter and Wanda’s granddaughter, finishes with the third story, “Alma’s Acceptance.” As a young widow, Alma is no stranger to loss. After moving from her Kentucky home to stay with friends in Pennsylvania where she grew up, it’s not long before love blossoms between her and childhood friend Elias. With everything happening so fast, another challenge arises and Alma and Elias may once again be separated before their love for one another can fully bloom. Will Alma return to Kentucky or will their love be allowed to flourish?

When done reading, enjoy Wilma’s maple syrup cookies, Martha’s stuffed pepper casserole, and Alma’s rose petal jam. Recipes for each are included at the end of each story.