Melita's Fresh Start

By: Brenda Maxfield

Narrated by: Trudi Knoedler

Length: 5 hrs and 36 mins

Publisher's summary

Melita Otto wants more than anything to get away. She’s not fond of the beau her aunt and uncle are pushing on her, nor is she fond of her routine life. But she has no idea what she’s getting into when she takes the job as housekeeper for three brothers who run an Amish horse farm.

Within days, she’s captivated by the horses. But it isn’t only the horses who captivate her. The taciturn eldest brother, Joel Raber, captures her heart.

Things become complicated when Melita’s former beau shows up. She fears Joel will think she’s already taken. But when the brothers’ parents return and her services are no longer needed, it appears Melita is about to lose everything she’s fallen in love with—is there any way she can stay? And is there any way Joel will ever see her as more than an employee?

©2023 Tica House Publishing LLC (P)2023 Tica House Publishing LLC

Cozy romance

Melita’s Fresh Start is a cozy, enjoyable, and entertaining Amish Romance written by highschool teacher and author Brenda Maxfield. With a clean and pleasant writing style, Brenda Maxfield does a great job of bringing to life the Amish and Mennonite communities of the United States in a story that feels like a Hallmark classic.

The book revolves around Melita Otto, a young woman longing for a change in her life. Tired of her routine and not interested in the suitor her aunt and uncle have chosen for her, she takes a job as a housekeeper on an Amish horse farm owned by three brothers, unaware of the journey she’s about to embark on. As she becomes captivated with the horses, at the same time she also finds herself enamored with the eldest brother, Joel Raber, who captures her heart with his quiet demeanor.

However, complications arise when Melita’s former love interest resurfaces, and to make matters worse, when the brothers’ parents return, her position as a housekeeper is no longer required, putting everything she has come to love in jeopardy.

While Brenda Maxfield’s writing is undoubtedly engaging, it is Trudi Knoedler’s narration of the audiobook version that truly elevates the story to new heights. With her pleasant voice enhanced by great acting skills, Trudi brings the tale to life, immersing listeners in a world of love, horses, faith, romance, and hardships. Her instantly familiar performance draws you in from the very beginning, and her portrayal of the characters is filled with talent and professionalism.

One other aspect that stands out is Trudi’s ability to master different accents, adding authenticity to the narration without overpowering the story. The accents are spoken softly enough as not to intrude, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the captivating tale.

Whether you’re a fan of romance stories or simply intrigued by the fascinating Amish culture, Melita’s Fresh Start offers a delightful combination of both that will leave you thoroughly entertained and wanting more heartwarming and engaging Amish audiobooks.

I am a blind audiobook reviewer, so if you found this review interesting I hope you will consider leaving a helpful vote below. Thank you! Take care, stay safe, and don't forget, always listen with your heart.