Love and Chocolate: A Christian Historical Romance

by Linda Shenton Matchett

She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love?

Ilsa Krause and her siblings are stunned to discover their father left massive debt behind upon his death. To help pay off their creditors and save the farm, she takes a job at Beck’s Chocolates, the company her father despised and refused to supply with milk. Then she discovers her boss is Ernst Webber, her high school love who unceremoniously dumped her via letter from college. Could life get any more difficult?

A freshly-minted university diploma in his hand, Ernst Webber lands his dream job at Beck’s Chocolates. His plans to work his way up the ladder don’t include romantic entanglements, then Ilsa Krause walks back into his life resurrecting feelings he thought long dead. However, her animosity makes it clear she has no interest in giving him a second chance. Can he get her to change her mind? Does he want to?

233 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2024

About the author

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A self-professed history geek, she is a volunteer archivist and docent at the Wright Museum of World War II. Linda has published more than twenty-five books. When not writing, she enjoys exploring historical sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some flavors are meant to be together—like faith and perseverance, love and forgiveness, and, of course, chocolate and just about everything! Love and Chocolate blends them all into one heartfelt story, where the sweetness of second chances is wrapped in the richness of God’s perfect timing.

Ilsa and Ernst’s journey is about learning to trust God even when life melts down around them. The characters felt real, their struggles raw, and their faith inspiring. Ernst knows his relationship with God takes precedence. That simple yet profound truth set the tone for a story that goes beyond romance—it’s about walking in faith, surrendering control, and letting God shape the desires of our hearts.

Ilsa’s prayers and thoughts resonated deeply: “Dear God, help me be kind and not respond to her rudeness.” Haven’t we all had moments where we needed that kind of grace? And her realization that “God saw no differences in people” is a reminder that His love knows no boundaries.

But perhaps my favorite moment came when Ernst found himself unexpectedly eager to dive into Scripture. Since when did he want to study God’s Word? That moment of conviction, of awakening to a deeper faith, was so powerful. Powerfully, this talented author made me reflect on how others have impacted my faith journey and whether I've had the same influence on others' relationships with Jesus.

The historical details, especially the author’s notes on Milton Hershey, added an extra layer of richness to the story—like the finishing touch of a perfectly tempered chocolate bar. And whether you read this one with a cup of cocoa in hand or not, the message lingers: Questioning God doesn’t mean you don’t have faith … He wants our honesty.

If you love a romance where faith takes center stage, second chances feel as sweet as a freshly dipped truffle, and God’s plan unfolds in ways more beautiful than we ever expect—then this book belongs on your shelf.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a lover of chocolate, this title grabbed my attention right away and after reading the blurb, I was already invested in the book. This second chance romance takes place in early 20th century Wisconsin and focuses on Ilsa Krause and her siblings who recently lost their father, and childhood friend Ernst Webber who has an administrative position at the local chocolate factory where Ilsa has recently taken a job. While sweethearts in high school, Ernst’s foray into college life caused him to drift away from Ilsa. How these two find their way back to each other makes for a compelling and inspiring read as forgiveness must be granted and received and faith in God restored. I loved how the main characters were both uplifted by their pastor’s sermon and motivated to seek God’s direction. This author puts much research into her books and the historical notes she included at the end were fascinating. Looking forward to reading the stories about the rest of the Klause siblings.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required and these are my own opinions.

[Linda Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett is a wonderful story with wonderful characters. I recommend it.

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story set in Wisconsin. I enjoy Christian historical romance stories. Well written and great characters in Ernst and Ilsa. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linda Shenton Matchett’s Love and Chocolate is a sweet read full of Truth and sass, with a dash of intrigue sprinkled in! Set in 1914, Love and Chocolate tells the story of Ilsa, a woman who takes a job at Beck’s Chocolates in order to pay off her Family’s debts and keep their Family Farm after her Father’s death. Once Ilsa starts to work, she learns that her former beau, Ernst, is a supervisor at Beck’s Chocolates. Ilsa’s and Ernst’s relationship did not end well before Ernst left for college and Ilsa could care less if she ever saw Ernst again. Ilsa does well at Beck’s Chocolates and quickly moves up through the ranks due to her hard work ethic. Unfortunately, many at Beck’s Chocolates believe that the only reason Ilsa is moving up through the company is due to her past history with Ernst. As Ernst and Ilsa try to tell their fellow co-workers that they are just friends and that Ilsa got her promotion honestly, not everyone believes them because everyone can see the sparks between the two of them–except for Ilsa and Ernst themselves.

I love being transported into the world of chocolate that Linda Shenton Matchett’s Love and Chocolate created! I love meeting Ilsa and Ernst! I admired Ilsa for the way she did what she believed God wanted her to do for the sake her Family and their Farm. I love the lessons that Ilsa learned from God and how God used others to teach Ilsa that what she may be doing currently is not what God wants her to do forever because He has more in store for Ilsa’s life. I love the progression of Ernst’s character in Love and Chocolate and that once Ernst realized his behavior and how he treated others when he left for college wasn’t very Christlike–especially when it came to Ilsa–Ernst set out to make things right. I love the town that Mr. Beck created! Ms. Matchett wrote Love and Chocolate with such vividness, I thought I was smelling chocolate at times while I was reading! I love how Ms. Matchett wrote most of the characters in Love and Chocolate with integrity and Christian Values, soaking Love and Chocolate in Truth. I love how Ms. Matchette wrote the characters in Love and Chocolate to do much introspection on and off the page, learning how their attitudes and actions, while sometimes cute, affect those around them. I also loved how the characters realized these things and that they asked God to help them and allowed Him to do so. To me, Love and Chocolate is more about the matter of how God sees our hearts and actions than a love story (which I love). Love and Chocolate is a delightful read and escape from the first page to the last! I highly recommend Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett!

Have you read Love and Chocolate? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Love and Chocolate to review, for letting me be a part of Love and Chocolate Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My review is also on Amazon, Instagram, and my blog, Leslie's Library Escape.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have such a big craving for chocolate after resting this book. With great research the author describes what it is like to run a chocolate factory. Ilsa never dreamed that she would be working at the factory her father refused to sell milk to. Times have changed since his untimely death. The farm is in trouble and bills are piling up. Ilsa takes a job that she prays will get her family out of debt and save the farm. I admire her hard work and devotion to her siblings.

Ernst is all set to work at the chocolate factory as a leader. Waiting for him will be a journey to share his faith, repair a relationship and find happiness. When Ernst discovers that Ilsa is now an employee there he wants to clear the air between them.

Ilsa is struggling with faith and tells Ernst, “my faith is an illusion.” She is angry that God took her parents. Ernst is so thoughtful when he tells Ilsa “ questioning God doesn’t mean you don’t have faith.” He references people in the Bible who struggled with their faith. Having this conversation begins the journey to reconcile their friendship.

The author explores how hard it was for women to achieve a degree during this time period. They could be nurses, leaders or a teacher, but they were not allowed to be doctors, supervisors or even a principal. Women in the factory are starting to talk about unionizing. Why do they get paid less then men? There is also a problem looming for Ilsa. Jealousy is rearing its ugly head as rumors are spreading. Some think Ilsa is getting special treatment. I didn’t like the joke they pulled on her at her locker. It seemed petty and juvenile.

Things start to change at work when it is announced that management positions would be open for women to apply for. How exciting that there are men who see value in women in the workplace. I wonder just how much women had to fight to move up in a job during this time period?

Oh how I loved the message about joy in the story. God wants the best for us. He knows what we are going through and stands beside us as we struggle in life. But joy is there if we trust Him. Ilsa must find a way to be joyful and not worry what others think. She puts so much power on people’s opinions of her that she may lose out on happiness. Change can be hard if we don’t allow God to show us the growth we will have when we let go of fear.

I was going to share the ending but then I would ruin a great surprise. Jesus is there in the most glorious way as an unexpected danger threatens the managers of the factory. Be sure to grab a copy of this beautiful story of faith, joy and hope.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read. I love chocolate for sure. I’m also a fan of milk cows. We happen to have several on our farm and I know what goes into milking them and dealing with the milk. One thing I don’t do on a regular basis is make chocolate. We do a lot of ice cream though!

Ilsa is a wonderful person. She’s not all sweet-smelling roses though. She’s got some thorns that like to poke to the surface. As Ilsa works on taming her thorns can she find love as well?

Ilsa is the oldest of a family of four children. They lost their mother quite some time ago and recently their father. On his death, they learned that he left them more debt than anything else. When they have to decide how they can get out of debt and keep the farm some tough decisions are made. Ilsa goes to work at the chocolate factory.

Our main male character is Ernst. He and Ilsa were once a couple. But after he went off to college his views of home and the girl at home changed. But now he’s back and in charge of a section of the chocolate factory. When Ilsa comes to work there they are thrown together. Could there possibly be something in the future for them?

This book read so well. I loved the characters. I can’t wait to see more books about this family. I’d love to follow all of the siblings! You’re going to come to the same conclusion I’m sure after you read this one. Each character had things they had to work through and some rough edges that needed smoothed out.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn't love chocolate? Well, I suppose some don't, but I am not one of them. This was a story of second chances in love and faith. When Ilsa Krause and her siblings' lives are upended, not only by their father's sudden death, but also by his massive debt, certain hard decisions must be made. Many changes begin to happen quickly. It is a shock to all of them, change is hard no matter what. Even going against some of their late father's stubborn hard fast rules.

Ernst Webber is back in town hoping to move his way up in his new position at the chocolate factory. Little does he know that his ex-fiancé has now come to work there. Problem, he is still in love with her, but he broke her heart. He went to college and thought he could leave her and his beliefs behind. When he comes back, he has some work to do to repair their relationship including his with God. Only problem, Ilsa is older and wiser now. Between family problem, workplace politics, and faith-based questions, these two have their work cut out for them.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

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[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett is Christian Historical Fiction. As with other books by this author, I was immediately drawn into the story. Ilsa Krause needs a job to help her siblings keep their family farm. Meanwhile, her former high school sweetheart returns to town and to her life through the local chocolate factory.

The author does an excellent job of showing the emotions, struggles, and, ultimately, Christian love throughout this book. I enjoyed getting to know Ilsa and Ernst, their families, co-workers, and especially their boss and how he runs the chocolate factory.

Reeading about how Ilsa and Ernst grow as characters and about their faith made this book one of my favorites. I felt these characters’ emotions, faith, and Ilsa’s desire to keep their relationship professional. Ernst’s belief in Ilsa’s abilities also drew me into this story.

As the first book about this community and the chocolate factory, I look forward to reading the books about Ilsa’s siblings and coworkers.

So, if you want Christian Historical Fiction, check out Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, love and chocolate certainly go together! I enjoyed reading this novel not only because I liked the main characters, but also because it’s based in part on the history of the beginnings of the Hershey Chocolate company in Hershey, PA. Although the names are changed in the book, this is an interesting look at how the unique ideas for that factory and community opened up rare opportunities for women that were employed in the Gilded Age era.

The romance between the two main characters, Ilsa and Ernst, is a “sweet” one with many ups and downs. After having a broken relationship, they find themselves thrown unexpectedly back together again as they begin working at the chocolate factory. The attraction between them is still strong, but being in a supervisor/employee relationship at work complicates their lives. We see this romance from both points of view and it was fun to see if and how they would find their happily-ever-after.

The next books in this series will feature Ilsa’s siblings, and I’m looking forward to reading more about this family and how the chocolate factory has an impact in their lives.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have become a fan of Linda Shenton Matchett and I truly love her Christian Historcial Romance books. Love and Chocolate is her most recent book that I had the opportunity to read.

WOW this storyline starts out strong and captivated me from the first few pages. The setting is in Wisconsin in the early 20 century. Lisa Krause and Ernst Webber are the 2 main characters in this book. Lisa Krause and her siblings recently lost their Dad and Lisa must find a way to keep the family together on their farm. Lisa is hired at a loca Chocolate factory and discovers her boss is Ernst Webber, the man who broke her heart years ago. I really LOVE that Ernst realizes that he put himself before others and especially before God for so many years. Seeing Lisa he really wants to get right with his God and his faith and explain things to Lisa on his actions years ago. I LOVED that Lisa has a forgiving heart and listened to Ernst and all that happened to him in the years since she saw him. The book is one of Faith, Forgiveness, Second Chances and Romance. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Chrsitian Historcial Romance. WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts

Love and Chocolate is written by Linda Shenton Matchett. This author is one that I will always try and read. Her ability to write across multiple time periods and her attention to detail makes her stories come alive. In this story we’re in Wisconsin in 1914.

Ilsa Krause finds out that her father had left behind a mountain of debt when he passes. She knows that she will need to find a job. She finds one at Beck’s Chocolates. Her father hated this place. He refused to supply the milk to them. Ilsa finds its honest work and a wage to help her family. However she doesn’t count on working under her ex, Ernst Webber.

Ernst had high hopes for his career after college. He knew he had to stay focused in order to work his way up. He is surprised to see Ilsa. She’s not interested in a second chance. She soon finds out that once she learns to surrender to God, things that we do not count on happen.

The author always has such real feeling characters. Both had some struggles. They needed to learn to trust God with All. I love that they have flaws.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a historical romance and the story of Ilsa Krause and Ernst Webber. Once sweethearts, Ernst broke things off when he was away at college. Now that he is back in town and is working for the same chocolate factory as Ilsa, they have to learn to let bygones be bygones.

I enjoyed the historical aspect of the story and how Hershey influenced the plot. As a chocolate lover, it was fun to have the factory where it is made as part of the setting. I thought Ilsa had a very generous heart in allowing Ernst to resume their relationship. I was happy to see that he matured when he faced obstacles and also listened to Ilsa’s concerns.

Things to look for:
second chance
loss of parent
unique orphanage
courting advice
danger
faith thread

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions expressed are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.

[Robin Willson · Rating 5 out of 5]

1914. I suspected that this was loosely modeled after Hershey, PA. I've spent some time in that area and its a special place, very homey and comfortable. Ilsa and her siblings are struggling with their farm after their father died, so she has to go to work in the factory. Her old beau is in management there so it's involved and uncomfortable. It's a progressive environment though and she soon finds that she is very good at her job and is able to advance. Interesting story and romance, in an interesting place. I was hooked right to the exciting end! I look forward to more from this family.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#LoveandChocolate #LindaShentonMatchett #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #ChristianHistoricalFiction #Draft2Digital #GildedAgeHistoricalRomance

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and Chocolate, by Linda Shenton Matchett. This is a well written story with wonderful characters. This is such a good story. It caught my attention at the very beginning and held it to the very end, wishing for more. In this story we meet the Krause siblings after the death of their father. When the sibling realize their true financial situation, they do what they need to do to keep the farm. The three siblings are such strong characters. I admire how they work together to pay off their father's debt and keep the family farm.

I enjoyed the relationships Ilsa formed when she took a job at the company her father strongly disliked. I like how strong and determined she was to bring in as much income as she could while helping the company. This is such a nice story of second chances.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who wouldn’t enjoy a book about chocolate and chocolate making in the early 1900s. I found the process interesting and would have liked to read more about it. It was also interesting to see the chocolate factory evolve and become not only state of the art with machinery but also very progressive in its views of women in the workplace.

The characters are well written. The Krause siblings step up after the loss of their father and the news of huge debt. They do things they never thought they could and came into their own. And Ernst. A bit of a snob in the beginning, he grew up and atoned for past hurts he’d caused.

A story of 2nd chances, healing, and coming to God, if you enjoy historical fiction I recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and Chocolate is another wonderful heartwarming story from Linda Shenton Matchett. I loved getting to know the main character, Ilsa. I adored her scenes with Ernst. I thought they made a wonderful duo and I wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen in the end with the two. Going back in time to a chocolate factory in the early 1900s Wyoming was a bonus. I thought it was a sweet and entertaining tale to read.

I am going to give Love and Chocolate five stars. I highly recommend it for reading who love to read clean and Christian Historical Romance. As always, I look forward to more releases from Linda Shenton Matchett in the future.

I received a copy of Linda Shenton Matchett's Love and Chocolate from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Renate Deutsche Oma · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written story with inspiring characters (Ilsa Krause and Ernst Webber), twist and turn plot and a heartfelt resolution. Part history - Cocoaville, Wisconsin 1914 - woman's suffrage, factory and women working and forming unions. A story of a family trying to stay together no matter the hardships they have to face and perseverance. Set in the heart of Wisconsin dairy farms with a touch of German and New Glarus Swiss culture. A story for the five senses: sight - description of the factory rooms, the smell of chocolate in the factory, sound of the wrapping machines, taste of German cuisine - beef rouladen and milk chocolate, and touch of love and the shiny chocolate wrappers. Author's notes gave the background of Milton Hersey and Hershey, Pennsylvania.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second chance romance. I liked how once Ernst was back in his hometown and around Ilsa again he realized that he shouldn’t have let her go. I liked how intelligent and strong willed Ilsa was and that it took her time to open up to Ernst love after he hurt her. I liked that she eventually let down her walls as Ernst continued to show her why he loved her. I also liked that this story gave a glimpse into what factory life could have been like especially with a boss who was more open minded. Overall I thought this was a good historical romance.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Love

Love and Chocolate, what could be a better combination. We find the family mourning the death of their Father and that he left the family in debt. Ilsa is the oldest, but they all must make a decision on how to move forward. She will go work at the chocolate factory to help pay down their debt. It will be hard there, not only because it will be new to her, but also because of her old beau, Ernst works there too. Can they both get past the betrayal and act like adults. It certainly will make life interesting, but just maybe with God’s help, things will improve. Beautiful story.

[Evelyn Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

- [ ] I thoroughly enjoyed this story woven around the lives of Ilsa, Ernst, Tobias, Nadine and a whole list of wonderfully created characters! Entertaining, filled with varied emotions, a total twist of events I didn’t see coming, all culminated into a book to be read again and again! And the consistent reminder that God is there no matter what, brings hope and encouragement to everyone who opens the pages of this narrative. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Sharon Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story like no other, full of emotion set against a family trying to stay together no matter the hardships they have to face. Doing things to survive and bringing hope to their hearts. Reminding us that we persevere in all things we do, because as long as we try and don’t give up, we can do anything. A wonderful well written story with in depth characters and a storyline that is heartfelt. And who doesn’t like chocolate because you get a taste of that too! I was given a complimentary copy and a review was not required.

[Bonny Rambarran · Rating 5 out of 5]

They own a farm — and when their father died they discover they are in debt!
Their father refused to sell the milk to a chocolate factory because he did not like the fact that bought so much land for their factory!! And now they need to do something about it!!! So they decide to get jobs . . . .and it is not easy especially when one of the girls says she is getting marred so she is not able to help. THIS IS AN AMAZING BOOK, Love, hard work, grace and above all God’s love shines through!!! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

When times are difficult and debts are high, a family finds a way to expediate payments. What would you do to make ends meet? A chocolate factory in Wisconsin in 1914 offers opportunities to men and women willing to work and earn an honest wage.
Ilsa is ready to do her part learning to work new machines. She doesn’t expect to work with an old love from the past.
How willing am I to place myself in an uncomfortable situation in order to help my family.
Bravo, Linda!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If a reader likes chocolate than I think they would like this book. The book is about a chocolate factory but it is more a clean love story. This is also a story of faith and forgiveness. I believe there are more stories to come in this series. The ending has a little bit of violence with a gun being used but it isn't too graphic, just a surprising twist in the story.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and thesev opinions are my own.

[Lori Chasko · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book! The author did a wonderful job!

[T Thompson · Rating 1 out of 5]

I cast a wide net when reading fiction - especially anything with an historical bent to it, yes even romances. This one missed the mark for me.