The Amish Candymaker

The Amish Candy Maker by Laura V. Hilton has us traveling to Mackinac County, Michigan. Agnes Zook lost her family and her home in the recent fires that went through the area. After selling off the property, Agnes has opened Sweet Treats. Agnes is known for being a little odd since she tends to talk without thinking and is frequently found talking to herself. She feels that she is destined to become an old maid because her preacher father planted that thought firmly in her head. Isaac Mast has come to town to look after his brother’s children while he is in the hospital recovering from severe burns with his wife by his side. Bishop Miah Brunstetter and his wife, Katherine along with Agnes have been caring for the three kids for the last six months. Isaac is an auctioneer who travels around the country. He is ill prepared to work his brother’s farm and care for three kinner on his own. Isaac stops in at Sweet Treats on his arrival in town and is instantly taken with Agnes who he finds talking to the plants on her windowsill. Agnes could be just the person he needs to help him with his dilemma. Agnes is attracted to Isaac from their first encounter, but he is not the type of person to settle down. God has brought these two different individuals together, but how the situation plays out is up to Agnes and Isaac. 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.