A letter brings him to Mackinac County. Can one woman make him stay? Agnes Zook has found herself on her own after in small Amish community in Mackinac County after a tragedy took the life of her parents and siblings. Most of the Amish call her “off in den Kopf” (strange) since she’s starting her own business and forging her own way in the community instead of relying on the bishop to take care … take care of her. Since she’s viewed as non-submissive and too-forward for an Amish woman she’s not courted by other young men in the area.
Isaac Mast is on the verge of leaving the Amish church. He’s become a sought-after Auctioneer and has a thriving business, but he feels confined by the strict rules. When his brother is severely injured in a wild fire, Isaac receives a letter from his sister-in-law, begging him to come to Mackinac County to help out while his brother is hospitalized for skin grafts and his wife is with him. They have young children that can’t be left alone. Isaac agrees but is unsure how to manage the children when he has weekend auctions he’s expected to attend. Agnes may be an answer to prayer.
When Isaac and Agnes meet, sparks fly, but everything changes. While neither of them fit within the structures of the Amish faith, could their differences be the one thing that helps them form a deeper connection to their faith…and each other?
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The Amish Candy Maker is a sweet Amish romance. Agnes Zook lost her entire family the night of the fire along with her home and is now living with Bishop Miah and his wife. The proceeds from the sale of her family’s land has helped her start Sweet Treats, a candy shop that features her fudge and rock candy (recipes at end of book). Agnes’ father was a preacher who frequently told her that if she did not marry Gabe (who picked another) then she would remain single. Agnes is determined to provide for herself and not be a burden on others. The night of the fire, Sam Mast suffered devastating burns and has been in a hospital ever since then. Isaac Mast is a traveling auctioneer who is in demand and his sister-in-law’s letter just caught up with him. Jenny, Sam’s wife, has not left her husband’s side and their three children need Isaac along with their farm. The last thing Isaac wishes to do is watch children after the tragic accident several years ago. Plus, Isaac has many weekend auctions lined up and cannot watch the kids full-time. When Isaac encounters Agnes, he believes they can reach an amicable solution. Agnes is an entertaining character who speaks without thinking which leads to some humorous and embarrassing situations. The electricity between Agnes and Isaac is immediate, but they each have issues standing in the way. Bishop Miah is a wise man who provides insightful and thoughtful advice along with his snarky quips. I like that the people do not have a smooth road on their journey. They must deal with a robber, medical emergency, flirtatious women and their own internal demons and insecurities. Agnes and Isaac need to learn that God is always there for them in good times and bad. He never leaves us nor forsakes us. I liked the inspirational thoughts and scripture verses included in The Amish Candy Maker. The Amish Candy Maker has mischievous children, a wise Bishop, a busy auctioneer, mouthwatering confections and a quirky candy maker.
Romance, chocolate, and an entertaining story! Add God in the midst and you’ve got a great story. On to the next one…
The Amish Candymaker is two different people that have been hurt, but in different occurrences and circumstances. God will use these events to heal differences and bring romance. I absolutely loved and enjoyed this book by Author Laura V. Hilton. This author is a terrific writer and I enjoy reading all her books.
I received a copy from the author, but was not required to review it. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
In true Laura V. Hilton fashion, she has captivated me with another book that I will say yet again is her best book yet!
This author is one of my absolute favorite to read as I can always expect a truly unique Amish story that I won’t want to put down.
This story tells of Agnes Zook, who lost everything she had in a fire, everything that is except God. She struggles with that loss, and low self esteem as a result of something her father always told her before he died. She has come to accept her life to be just what it is, the lonely life of a single girl and eventual spinster, content to run her candy shop living with the bishop and his wife, until Isaac Mast comes into town and begins to stir up feelings she never expected to feel again.
I loved the characters in this story. They were well developed and easy to relate to. I think the bishop in this story was one of my favorite as he was not your typical Amish bishop.
I give this book 5 stars and can’t wait to read another book from this author!
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, but was not required to give a positive review. This is my honest opinion of this book.
Agnes and Isaac are not the typical Amish young adults. Neither of these characters conform to what a perfect Amish person would be. These two meet after each had family members injured or killed in a tragedy. Can these two help each other while caring for three small children. I loved the characters and the story. I especially loved the Bishop. He is a great character. This is not as clean as most Amish fiction stories. This definitely has a bit more flirting than usual. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Most of the Amish call her “off in den Kopf” (strange) and he’s almost ready to leave the Amish faith.. Wow, the sparks fly with these two and not necessarily romantically! They seem to clash often but I really liked this story as they both find a way to confront the past and tackle the problems of today. Faith, family, forgiveness and a just plain good story made it hard to put down! Highly recommended!
I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary…
It was hard not to crave candy as I read this book. The author really piqued my interest in making fudge as one of the main character’s owns a Candy Shop. It was easy to like Agnes because she was thoughtful, giving and a hard worker. She has been through a tragedy and now is on her own. I loved reading about her shop and I could smell the aromas of chocolate and other delicious flavors floating throughout her shop. A lot of Amish stories seem to be centered around bakeries or restaurants, so this was a very refreshing setting.
It was easy for me to like Agnes because I could relate to her struggles. She has a hard time believing that God loves her, and I struggle with that same issue. Her father was a bit hard on her and left a lasting impression that if she didn’t marry Gabe she would be alone forever. It must have been heartbreaking for her when Gabe married someone else. Her self-esteem really needed a pick me up. Have you ever thought that no one would want you? Agnes doesn’t see herself as God does. She has believed all these years that she is not worthy to be loved.
Isaac comes into the story when his brother is severely injured . His brother and sister- in -law need to travel to a hospital for a period of time for him to receive treatment. I wasn’t sure about Isaac for awhile. He was arrogant and way to flirty. He seemed to be put off having to take care of his nieces and nephew while his brother is away. He has an attraction to Agnes right away which didn’t set well with me. I wanted to tell him to back off and worry about what he came to town for. Does he like Agnes because he needs help with the children?
As the story progresses, the author gives us insight into two hurting people both wanting answers from God. I can’t tell you how many times I have prayed about something, only to get no reply. It can be discouraging and a feeling of loneliness can set in. Agnes is seeking acceptance and Isaac is looking for forgiveness. The story is emotional at times and shows that everyone at some point in their life struggle with their faith. it is a great book with characters many can relate to.
I loved the story and how the author used scriptures at just the right time in the story to emphasize a point. There is much wisdom in this book with lessons in forgiveness, acceptance and trusting God.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
The Amish candy maker
The book is romantic, and funny. Such a fun read. Also did deal with real issues. But, what good book doesn’t? Loved the children in the book. Also some great recipes at the end of the book. I think this is one of the best books I have read by the author.
Isaac comes to care for his nieces and nephews while his brother is in the hospital recovering from being burned. He meets Agnes who was helping with the kids. She has a candy store. I just love how they interact together. Loved the way they meet at her store. Loved Bishop Miah and how he treated Agnes like a daughter.
I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
I am one of those readers who sometimes wants to say “enough already” with Amish fiction although there are a few authors I will read. Laura V. Hilton is one of those authors because I know I will find an entertaining plot with authentic characters and situations, as well as a liberal dose of practical faith. I am always happy to read a book by this author.
The Amish Candymaker is entertaining and sometimes humorous yet probes deeply into the insecurities that affect the way Agnes Zook and Isaac Mast view themselves. I loved the way the author wove both scripture and Amish quotations into the story. Bishop Miah was an important character with plenty of wisdom who helped Agnes and Issac to overcome their past by constantly reminding them of their God who never fails.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book although I was tempted to distraction by the frequent descriptions of wonderful food. Sugar is no longer part of my diet but I do remember it well. It was also fun reading about characters from previous books and seeing them from a different point of view. As far as I’m concerned there is nothing not to like about The Amish Candymaker and I recommend it to other readers – even those who do not really like Amish fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
THE AMISH CANDY MAKER by Laura V. Hilton is the second book in The Amish of Mackinac County series.
THE AMISH CANDY MAKER is the story of Agnes Zook and Isaac Mast in a small Amish community in McKinac County about how they struggle with the past, find their way back to their faith with the help of each other and few nudges by Bishop Miah, and a story of growing love that sparks from the first touch.
Agnes Zook is an unmarried woman who feels condemned to be an old maid as prophesized by her Daed. Because of her upbringing, she feels no self-worth with a heavy dose of guilt added in for having survived the fire that took the lives of the rest of her family. She’s also been labeled off in the head because she choose to open a candy shop on her own. No marriage of convenience for Agnes or having the menfolk telling her what to do. With no suitors in sight, she knows she must find a way to support herself. All she’s ever dreamed of was a handsome man beside a natural Christmas tree with snow crunching under his feet to say three little words – I love you. Will her Prince Charming ever show up?
Isaac Mast is a well-thought of and sought after auctioneer who spends his time going from auction to auction through the United States – no time for a real relationship. He’s stayed away from his twin brother’s family for years carrying the heavy guilt of being responsible for killing not one but three people. It was only after receiving a letter from his sister-in-law pleading desperately for help after a tragic fire had destroyed a lot of the area leaving his twin hospitalized with major burns. He returns, against his better judgment, to help with his niece and two nephew, all less than 5. How can he maintain their farm and keep his livelihood? Most of all, how can he take care of kids after what he did?
Agnes and Isaac first met when Isaac went in to buy some candy for the Bishop and his wife for having taken care of the brother’s children for weeks before he heard about the fire and was able to make arrangements to come. During that first meeting, Agnes was robbed at gun point. Isaac was able call for help and to keep Agnes from harm becoming her hero. During a spell of what she calls verbal vomit, she speaks of her attraction for Isaac who finds great joy in teasing and flirting with Agnes. However, sparks flew from their first touch and feelings grew fast for both of them. In a business agreement, they decided to help one another – one supplying labor and the other providing childcare.
Bishop Miah and his wife were instrumental in helping both find their way back to their faith while being strict but loving and offering a quote or scripture from time to time for them to think on. I think everyone needs a Bishop Miah in their life!
Through their trials of taking care of the candy story, tending to three little ones running at full speed in different directions at the same time all requiring constant attention, and Isaac traveling back and forth across the country for auctions leaving Agnes in full charge of everything – Agnes and Isaac finally learn about each other’s past and the guilt they carry. Will their growing affection for each other be able to survive it all? Or will another tragic accident have them going their separate ways? Can they both find peace in their faith knowing God has all the answers if we just hand all our problems to him in faith? Will love find a way or will they each go their own way? Will Bishop Miah ever allow them to marry?
THE AMISH CANDY MAKER is an amazing love story of an Amish couple living in the English world trying to hold on to their faith while dealing with a difficult past. Laura V. Hilton has a way of telling an Amish story while reminding us that we are all human with flaws and emotions bound to make mistakes. Then she shows us through faith, prayer and God’s grace that all things are possible. In the course of the book’s pages she will have you laugh, cry, fearful, smiling and hopefully finding a reason to be thankful or lifting up a prayer yourself. I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a wonderful written story, the Amish genre, or simple a wonderful romance. Pick it up and read it – you won’t be disappointed.
Author Laura Hilton has developed a sweet story that isn’t syrupy but has characters with spunk, making this a fun read. A non-submissive Amish woman and a man afraid of commitment make for an interesting combination. Because of words spoken over them, both fear they are unlovable. Coming to grips with God’s plan, while learning a new way to see ourselves, isn’t always easy but always worth it.
Amish proverbs such as “Your past doesn’t stay in your past” and scripture verses pertaining to whatever situation the characters were facing, help to tie a good story together with God’s heart.
If you enjoy Amish stories with depth then I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
The author has given us a compelling page turner, and once you begin the pages begin to fly, the story is that good, and I needed to find the answers.
We are back in Mackinac and with some old friends, and this is Agnes Zooks story, as she is beginning her endeavor to have her own candy shop. We also meet Gabe’s brother, Isaac, and see him deal with his daemons.
Can there be a relationship between these two main characters? Surprises abound here and there are new relations and many make me wonder why I really liked some of the previous characters, yes this is the second book in this series, but you can read this as a stand-alone, but you might want to read the first book in this series!
The theme of forgiveness is prevalent here, both by others and by oneself, this needs to be one before anyone can move on.
I received this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to give a positive review.
The story of two very broken young people who must make peace with their God and their pasts, The Amish Candymaker is a sweet and sour romance. The sweet part is the obvious romance we all expect as the readers. The sour part is all the different obstacles that seem determined to keep “half-Amish” auctioneer Isaac and “old maid” Agnes apart.
It took me a while to appreciate the characters, especially Agnes, who was thinking about marriage within minutes of meeting Isaac. As the book progressed, I began to understand a little more the great emotional pain planted in Agnes by her father, who assured her that his words as a Preacher were inspired by God. How furious I was at Agnes’s father for wounding her so deeply.
Isaac knows his past will keep him from getting close to Agnes. Or will that be his inability to settle down and commit to one woman? Bishop Miah finally tells him, “ Running from your problems is a race you’ll never win,” and,
“The trouble with our past is that it refuses to stay past.”
One more Bishop Miah quote:
“Jesus never leaves the faithful to suffer alone. He heals the limping man’s faith.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own and no positive review was required.
Overcoming the past, action, budding romance, Amish proverbs, and Biblical scriptures filled the pages of The Amish Candymaker by Laura V. Hilton. I couldn’t stop reading this book until the end. The main characters Agnes Zook and Isaac Mast met in her candy shop with an unexpected turn of events before Agnes showed him where Bishop Miah lived. Isaac’s life was busy auctioneering all over the United States with his nieces and nephew to care for in Mackinac County maybe he could enlist Agnes to assist. After all, they had been residing at Bishop Miah’s home together since the fire that ravenous their community. The characters lives and background is deep with layers to peel away throughout this gripping and winning story. There’s twists and turns with some heartbreaking moments, blaming, caring, courage, determination, faith, love and resilient from the primary characters to secondary characters that brought life and realism to the story. Will Agnes belief of “Nein drop-dead-gorgeous, clean-cut hero is going to rescue me near a live Christmas tree while the snow crunches pleasantly under my feet” ever come true once Isaac fled Mackinac County when he was blamed for his nephew’s situation?
The picturesque descriptive scenes placed me right in the middle of Mackinac County as well as the various states Isaac traveled to for his auctioneer services. The Amish Candymaker is the second book in Hilton’s series, The Amish of Mackinac County. However, it may be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Firestorm to gain a love and respect for the residents of this Amish community and all they had experienced.
There’s a bonus at the end of this book with candy recipes. The Amish Candymaker is a phenomenal story by Laura V. Hilton. Her books never fail to disappoint with new adventures, Amish proverbs and Biblical references similar to situations that these charming Amish characters face.
I received a complimentary e-book of The Amish Candymaker from Celebrate Lit. I have expressed my sincere opinion and look forward to many more Amish stories with a strong faith message by Hilton.
A sweet arrangement
My rating is 4.5 stars
Agnes struggled so much with the concept that Gott could love her. She felt that her prayers were not heard, especially after her family died in a fire. Not only that, she felt she was unlovable. Her very own father, a preacher, had told her that no man would want her – she was too independent and outspoken.
I loved Agnes’ endearing habit of talking to inanimate objects, such a plants and dishes. You get the idea. Maybe I thought it was so fun because I’ve been known to do exactly that.
I wasn’t a fan of Issac at first. He was a bit brash and overconfident. His smooth-talking ways that made him a much-demanded auctioneer also had him popular with the Amish women in the communities he visited. Not that anything ever happened beyond perhaps a few kisses, but still. . . He had no intention of making any commitments or settling down.
Yet as time went by, Isaac became more lovable. The way he embraced taking care of his nephew and nieces despite being so incompetent was very sweet. And the way he really did honor and respect Agnes; being able to see past her quirks to appreciate the wonderful woman she is.
Yet a Laura V. Hilton novel wouldn’t be complete with “”just”” a romance. Her stories are much deeper than that! Issac carried deep guilt over an event that occurred several years earlier, separating him from his only remaining family – his twin brother. The grief and guilt he experienced caused him to live the life of a nomad and made him feel he wasn’t worthy of the love he craved.
There was also a mystery surrounding the drug addict who had attempted to rob Agnes’ candy store. While it was not a prominent theme of the story, it carried an undercurrent that added a little more drama.
Yes, this is part of a series and has characters returning from other stories, and yet it does stand alone quite well. Then again, Laura V. Hilton’s books are all so good you should treat yourself and read them all!
Read with a Preview at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I felt sorry for Agnes, with all she had lost, and with the low expectations that her father had expressed for her. I loved reading about her interactions with Isaac and the way their relationship progressed through the book.
Isaac was such an intriguing character and different from the way many Amish men are portrayed in novels. He carried a lot of guilt, had one foot in the Englisch world, was dashingly handsome, and was definitely a flirt. I liked seeing his true character develop in this story. He really was such a caring man.
The children in the book were a sweet addition and definitely added quite a bit of humor to the story. There were also many interesting characters that created quite an enjoyable community to read about.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Amish Candymaker by Laura V. Hilton is a captivating story about an Amish community in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It is indeed a love story but it is so much more. There is tension in the relationship between Isaac and Agnes (or Beautiful as Isaac affectionately calls her). One wonders if they will be able to overcome the difficulties that come at them. Readers will cheer for, cry with and be drawn into the lives of this Amish community of colorful and riveting characters. The story flows well with action and emotion and has a few “oh, no!” moments where one wonders how will this turn out? I loved the bits of humor throughout the story. With three of the characters being preschool children there are a fair amount of humorous mishaps and then there is Bishop Miah. Such a great character-wise and fatherly and yet is heard to mutter slightly sarcastic comments, such as ‘courted, schmorted’ in response to other characters. And he certainly keeps his eye on Agnes and Isaac as they develop a relationship. I especially liked one of the thought-provoking bits of advice that Bishop Miah gives to Isaac–to ‘let prayer be the key to the day and the bolt to the nacht.’ The author deals well with somewhat difficult situations as she writes of robberies, flirtatious wives, the pain of lost love, and emergency medical situations. All in all, she writes an entertaining and inspirational book. It is a story not only of finding a home and romance but of realizing the faithfulness of God in times of trouble and learning to seek forgiveness as well as to forgive oneself. I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the Amish of Mackinac County and am hoping there is another yet to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and the opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
It’s almost be scary how words said can affect the rest of a life. Such is the experience of young Agnes Zook, who has been told by her father that she is not worthy of any man’s love. A robbery in her candy shop brings a true life hero to her rescue, but is it even possible that she might believe some of the things he is saying? Poor choices bring consequences, but can forgiveness be found?
A most enjoyable Amish story with scripture and many sayings woven nicely into the narrative. Perhaps most noticeable in my reading was ‘People don’t lack strength, they lack will’! I expect there are many areas in our lives that this would this ring true.
I received this wonderful book through CelebrateLit. All impression and opinions are my own.
Fun and Entertaining!
Although I am not an author, I feel it’s safe to say that an author faces many challenges when creating a story. They write a quality story whose plot and characters engage and entertain the reader. Yet, I often read reviews stating that although the book was enjoyable, the characters were not likable. Sadly, that last part doesn’t do much to encourage one to read the book. However, I can assure you that as you read The Amish Candymaker, you will not come away complaining about the characters. Instead, you will find that Agnes and Isaac are two of the most endearing characters you’ve come across in quite some time.
Agnes is quite a unique character. She doesn’t quite fit the mold of a typical Amish woman. She runs her own business. She’s quirky. She’s blunt. She speaks her mind in that if it pops into her head, it’s going to come out of her mouth. Zero filter. But, at the same time, she’s extremely caring and lovable. Then there’s Isaac who is also quite unique. Isaac doesn’t live in one place. He has a job that keeps him traveling all of the time. Because he’s never in one place very long, he’s not a member of a particular church. Instead he attends church wherever he is. So, when it comes to following the Ordnung and rules of the church, he pretty well marches to the beat of his own drum.
Together, Agnes and Isaac make quite the pair. Although these two are fun and endearing, they’re also two individuals full of pain, guilt and scars left behind by events they’ve each had to face in their lives. But through it all, these two are drawn to each other and begin to grow in love for one another. In doing so, they also begin to find their way back to God’s plan for their lives as they receive forgiveness and freedom from the weight of guilt they’ve been carrying for so long.
An engaging storyline, endearing characters, romance, twists and turns, laugh out lout moments (and there were many), as well a message of hope and forgiveness make The Amish Candymaker a fun, entertaining, hard to put down, definite must-read.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book. All expressed opinions are my own.