Candace Can-Can Cook

by Tessa Burns

She just wants to cook without killing anyone. Little does she know that her culinary adventures might lead her to save a life.

Candace loves bugs and books. Study of bees and butterflies fills her days as an entomologist. Despite her success, she feels inept, because she just can’t cook. But she’s determined to learn, to show her family (and maybe herself) that she’s a capable grownup. At the local library, seeking resources to guide her aspirations, she meets Hank, a cute librarian who shares her love of books—and as it turns out, knows his way around the kitchen. Sparks fly, and it seems Candace has found the recipe for romance. But as they get to know each other, they realize that God might be calling them to a mission bigger than themselves.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 10, 2025

Reviews

[Laura Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uplifting story about two new friends who see a problem and decide to do something about it together. Relatable characters, a sweet romance, laugh out loud moments, and tear-inducing scenes. Lots of inspiration for showing kindness, even when it's not easy. Would make a great choice for a book club discussion.

[J. Bea Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, quirky story that hits all the romance buttons, while also encouraging readers to think through the challenge of helping a homeless person on practical levels, as a sincere friend. Tessa writes truly endearing characters and thought-provoking scenes flavored with just the right dashes of whimsy.

[Sheila Quirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this sweet story of a budding romance between a gal who wants to learn to cook, and a kind young man who comes alongside her. Together they sense God is leading them to help a homeless guy who keeps showing up in their path. What transpires when they trust God and see what he has for them is fun to read and encouraging. Well written with great description by the author.