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The Amish Sweet Shop

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It’s almost Valentine’s Day, the busiest time of the year at Beechy’s Sweets, where the Amish gifts of love and faith are even sweeter than the home-made candy.
 
THE SWEETEST COURTSHIP National Bestselling Author Emma Miller
At age thirty-six, Jacob Beechy is a rarity—a master candy maker, and a bachelor. His mother, however, still hopes for grandchildren. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, she convinces Jacob he will need extra help in the shop and interviews a string of applicants—for his
future wife . . .
 
THE SWEETEST TRUTH  National Bestselling Author Laura Bradford
Sadie Fischer has accepted that she will never marry. Her scars from a barn fire are a daily reminder of why. So when she receives mysterious gifts leading up to Valentine’s Day, including chocolate from Beechy’s, she’s bewildered—yet curious. Sadie may not think she’s pretty, but there’s a young man who sees only sweetness when he looks at her . . .
 
NOTHING TASTES SO SWEET Award Winning Author Mary Ellis
Pregnant and suddenly widowed, Hannah must give up the dreams she once had. But when she learns that her longtime English employer plans to sell his hardware store, she’s determined to buy it. She doesn’t realize that will mean following a clue from Beechy’s to clear a man’s name—and finding a partnership in work, faith, and love . . .

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 4, 2018

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Emma Miller

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
Profile Image for Kat.
Author 14 books604 followers
April 6, 2023
What a great collection of short stories perfect for Valentine’s day. A slightly grumpy candy maker who may be in need of a wife (even if he doesn’t think so.) A meddling mother. And tons of Amish community charm. Chicken and dumplings. Buggy rides. This was charming and relaxing to read. Loved Jacob and Rose’s story.

Amos and Sadie were equally a delight, with Amos the son of an ice cream shop owner, and Sadie who works at a quilt shop. Sadie has been burned in an accident and believes she is destined for spinsterhood. So when gifts start appearing on the doorstep, she’s sure they must be a joke. Super cute. The final story, Hanna’s was a bit sad, but I still ultimately enjoyed it in the end.

Profile Image for Deanne Patterson.
2,406 reviews119 followers
March 6, 2019
This is a really fun book to read, once I started I wanted to keep reading. Taking place in Bluebird,PA this book is a collection of stories by authors Emma Miller, Laura Bradford and Mary Ellis. The stories are as sweet as Beechy's Sweet Shop. It made my mouth water when they explained the candy making steps. Fudge anyone? Each story deals with loss of loved ones,forgiveness and healing. Each story is connected with revolving around the sweet shop. I have read stories by all these authors already and it is a sweet delight to read these stories. The cover really drew me in it's very charming.
Published December 24th 2018 by Kensington .
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Carla.
7,607 reviews179 followers
February 24, 2019
The Amish Sweet Shop is a trio of Amish romance novellas by Emma Miller, Laura Bradford and Mary Ellis. This is a Valentine Anthology full of love and sweet Christian romance.

The Sweetest Courtship by Emma Miller tells the story of Jacob Beechy owner of Beechy’s Sweets in Bluebird, Pennsylvania. His mother Clara wants to find him a wife, so using the premise of him needing an assistant while she is out of town, she sets a plan in place. Clara begins interviewing candidates, but the questions she asks are more about being a wife than a shopkeeper. When Clara interviews Rose Bontrager, believes she will make the perfect wife for Jacob, and hires her on the spot. Will gruff, standoffish Jacob and sweet, even-tempered Rose fall into Clara’s marriage trap? Will and Rose are a hoot. They are like oil and water at the beginning, but the more they work together, the more they begin to enjoy being together. I loved Rose's character and even though I knew they would end up together, I was definitely rooting for their relationship.

The Sweetest Truth by Laura Bradford stars Sadie Fisher. A young Amish girl who dreams of a husband and family, but fears no one will ever love her. After being horribly scarred in a barn fire, she feels that her friends, family and especially strangers can only see the scars. When someone starts secretly leaving her gifts, she is sure it is someone making fun of her, that no one can see the beautiful person she is on the inside. Who has seen past her scars and the wall she has built around her heart? Once again, there were wonderful characters who I rooted for and wanted to get to know. I would love to visit and meet these characters who have such strong love and faith.

Nothing Tastes So Sweet by Mary Ellis is the final story in the book. Hannah Kline and her husband, Daniel, are looking forward to saving enough money to have a home, a farm and a family. When Daniel is killed in an industrial accident, Hannah is adrift, especially after finding out she is pregnant. She soon realizes that when the Lord closes a door, he opens a window. Seth Miller left the Amish Community after an accusation of theft. He returns and has a dream to open a business of his own. Can Hannah and Seth, work together to combine their dreams? This is a beautiful second chance story that will have you turning the pages quickly to see if all the hurdles can be overcome.

Miller, Bradford and Ellis have each brought us a beautiful story of love, forgiveness, family, and faith. Each of these stories was a Valentine treat for me. I recommend this to lovers of clean romance, Christian Romance, and Amish Fiction. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
Profile Image for Mayda.
3,829 reviews65 followers
March 15, 2019
Three novellas are loosely connected in this one book. Taking place in Bluebird, Pennsylvania, each tale centers on a different shop, with occasional cross-over characters. The book is aptly named; these are certainly sweet stories. Though readers will likely guess the outcome almost from the beginning, the journey there makes for a very enjoyable and entertaining read.
Profile Image for Kelsie Maxwell.
430 reviews86 followers
December 2, 2018
The Amish Sweet Shop is a trio of Amish romance stories by Emma Miller, Laura Bradford and Mary Ellis. Each story tells a tale of love at it’s purest and sweetest.

The Sweetest Courtship by Emma Miller
Beechy’s Sweets in Bluebird, Pennsylvania is a candy shop owned by master candy maker, Jacob Beechy. It’s nearly Valentine’s Day and Jacob has many orders to fill. Clara, Jacob’s mother, normally helps him in the shop, but she has plans to travel to Indiana to help a family member. Despite Jacob’s objections, Clara begins interviewing candidates to assist in the shop while she is away. What Jacob and the interviewees don’t know, is that Clara is secretly hoping to find a wife for her bachelor son. Clara interviews Rose Bontrager, believes she is the perfect wife for Jacob, and hires her on the spot. Will gruff, standoffish Jacob and sweet, even-tempered Rose fall into Clara’s marriage trap?

The Sweetest Truth by Laura Bradford
Being Amish, Sadie Fisher dreams the same dream as most young women of her faith; marriage and children. After being horribly scarred in a barn fire, Sadie gives up her dreams of domestic bliss. She now feels that her friends, family and especially strangers can only see the scars that mar one side of her face, and not the beautiful young woman she once was. In some cases she is correct, but now Sadie has a secret admirer who leaves her gifts in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. Who has seen past her scars and the wall she has built around her heart, to the beauty, both inner and outer, that she still possesses?

Nothing Tastes So Sweet by Mary Ellis
Hannah Kline and her husband, Daniel, are looking forward to a future where they have a family and their own farm. Unfortunately, Daniel is killed before this dream is fully realized. Hannah is widowed and pregnant but soon realizes that though one dream has died, another has been birthed. Seth Miller left the Amish after a misunderstanding. He returns with a dream of his own. Can Hannah and Seth intertwine their dreams? Hannah’s first love can’t be replaced, but could a second love be just as sweet?

Miller, Bradford and Ellis have each brought love to light in beautifully written stories. The characters, with one notable exception, are like cherished friends. The Amish Sweet Shop stories highlight the simplicity and sweetness of true love. Each of these stories was a treat for me, and I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend The Amish Sweet Shop to all lovers of chaste romance. Readers of Amish fiction will find these stories particularly delightful.

My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,229 reviews490 followers
November 30, 2018
Once I began reading these three novella’s I was gone and page-turning, the stories are written by three different authors, but in some way, include an Amish candy store, take place in a walking distance from each other.
Each story is different, but with the theme of forgiveness, loss of loved ones, and coming to terms with yourself.
They kept my attention, and as I finished each story I was willing to keep on reading and being in their lives, they are all that enjoyable, and quickly became friends.
You won’t go wrong with this one, there is something for everyone!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give positive review.



Profile Image for Kristina Anderson.
4,050 reviews83 followers
December 30, 2018
The Amish Sweet Shop by Laura Bradford, Mary Ellis and Emma Miller contains three sweet stories set in Blue Bird, Pennsylvania. We start with The Sweetest Courtship by Emma Miller. Jacob Beechy creates the sweet treats sold at Beechy’s Sweets run by his mother, Clara and himself. Clara is ready for her son to settle down and provide her with grandchildren to spoil. She will be leaving town to assist her expectant niece and convinces Jacob they need help in the store. Jacob is unaware that Clara is interviewing the applicants in the hopes of finding him a bride. When Rose Bontrager arrives, Clara believes she has found the right woman for her son. Clara takes her leave and hopes sparks will fly between the pair.

The Sweetest Truth by Laura Bradford features Sadie Fisher who works at Bluebird Quilts. Sadie is happy for her best friend, Miriam who is getting married. But it makes her sad that she does not have any prospects and Sadie believes she will be a spinster because of the scars on the right side of her face. Sadie received the scars when she rescued animals from her families burning barn. Miss Jenny says the right man will come along who can see Sadie for what is inside her heart. It does not help that an English teenager torments Sadie each day on her way home. Unexpectedly, someone starts leaving little gifts for Sadie on the back porch of Bluebird Quilts. Does someone see Sadie for the kind, caring woman she truly is?

Hannah Kline is a recent widow in Nothing Tastes So Sweet by Mary Ellis. Hannah and her husband lived above the hardware store where she works. Hannah discovers she is pregnant shortly after her husband dies in a work accident. When Hannah learns that Mr. & Mrs. Howard are selling the hardware store, she wants to buy it. Unfortunately, Hannah does not have enough money for the down payment on her own. The Howard’s suggest that Hannah partner with Seth Miller who also wishes to purchase the hardware store. To obtain the Bishop’s approval, Hannah must clear Seth’s name of an incident that caused him to leave the Amish. Their talents and work experiences complement each other making a good working relationship. Can their work association lead to something more?

The Amish Sweet Shop contains three pleasant Amish romances. I found the stories to be nicely written and they work well together. They contain likeable as well as relatable characters. Beechy’s Sweets is the link that ties the three novellas together plus they are all set in the small town of Bluebird, Pennsylvania. There are sweet treats mentioned in the books that will have you craving chocolate. All three stories are clean, Amish romances with Christian messages (such as looking beyond the surface to the person within). While they do have expected endings, the novellas are diverting. The Sweetest Courtship is my favorite story. I enjoyed the banter between Jacob and Rose as well as the humor sprinkled throughout it. Clara was not subtle with her matchmaking. The Amish Sweet Shop is the perfect book to read on a cold winter day in a comfy chair with a hot drink and a box of chocolates.
Profile Image for Babs.
Author 15 books188 followers
November 2, 2018


THE SWEETEST COURTSHIP

Jacob Beechy runs the local Candy shop with his mom. But his mom Clara is about to leave in a few weeks and thinks they need help while she is gone. It can’t hurt that she wants Jacob to find a wife and have kids.

Rose is hired to help out around the shop. When Clara has to leave early she takes over and tries to help Jacob with the many orders for Valentines day that need to be filled and shipped out. He is not he easiest to get a long with and is harsh as times. Can she get through to him?

A cute read of a lovely couple who come together. It was nice to see Jacob start to come out of his shell. They both have lost someone special and it takes them to come together to have a second chance for both.


THE SWEETEST TRUTH

Sadie was sacred on her face when she was 16 in a barn fire trying to have the horses. She has come to believe she will never get married. Everyone around her is but she can deal with it. She has gotten use to have people stare or turn away. She even has a man taught her each day on the way home.

A young man Amos that helps his father next door has waved at her at the quilt shop. But Sadies hurries to turn away. When gifts start to arrive on the back step where she takes her lunch she suspects the mean man is the one behind it. But could it be more? Could she really have an admirer? What if it is Amos?

Amos was so caring and truly loved Sadie it was nice to see him help her come to love herself no matter what the scar looked like. She was not ugly in his eyes.



NOTHING TASTES SO SWEET

Hannah had recently lost her husband and her dreams. She is pregnant and needs to think of herself and her child. She wants to go into a partner ship with Seth who use to live in the Amish community until he was accused of something he did not do.

Seth has a falling out with his father when he helped an older lady who thought he stoled him her. Can he get his name cleared and help Hannah or will their dream be put aside?

A cute read about people who really care about each other no matter what the situation. Hannah wasn’t to giving up.
3,919 reviews1,763 followers
February 3, 2020
Warning: might induce strong cravings for chocolate. Read at your own risk.

This is a great collection that offers three distinctively different stories. Emma Miller's The Sweetest Courtship is exactly that -- sweet and funny and tender. A perfect lighthearted rom/com Valentine read. The Sweetest Truth by Laura Bradford has a more serious tone as Sadie struggles with self-esteem issues. This novella is full of touching, heartwarming scenes and Amos's determination to help Sadie see herself as he sees her is the ultimate example of romantic love. Nothing Tastes So Sweet by Mary Ellis doesn't focus on romance -- it reads more like a prelude of the romance to come which I was happy with since Hannah is a very recent widow. This novella is more about her struggle to find her way after the sudden death of her husband. Definitely a heavier read then the first two stories in this collection but I loved Hannah's spunk and determination to make her own way.

Honestly, what can be better than books and chocolate -- a chocoholic/bibliophile's dream collection. :-)
Profile Image for Gale Penton.
595 reviews6 followers
January 3, 2021
Excellent read. Very sweet romances but not too sweet. Enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Eliza Noel.
Author 2 books99 followers
November 28, 2018
I found this collection of three books on Netgalley. Even though I didn’t recognize the authors it looked like a cute, clean, easy read. I was right! If you’ve seen any Hallmark movie or read a Christian romance I’m sure you can guess how each ends..but I’d still recommend that you read them ;)


All three…
-involved lots of yummy food descriptions. UM. YES PLEASE.
-on the same note, the second and third books both mentioned Beechy’s Sweets, the store owned by the main character in the first book. I loved that little connection even though each story has different main characters and a completely separate plot.
-I don’t think there was kissing in any of these stories even though they’re all romances. I know not everyone agrees with me, but I prefer not to read about kisses (especially detailed ones) between unmarried couples.
-all of the characters were totally lovable!
-each story’s plot is different enough (despite all being Amish Romances) that I didn’t get tired of reading them.

The Sweetest Courtship by Emma Miller
A story of a widowed Amish woman with a positive outlook on life who moves to a new district. She gets a job at Beechy’s Sweets. Her boss is an Amish man whose fiance died many years ago and has tendency to push people away. One part towards the end felt like it didn’t fit quite well or was resolved too easily, but other than that it was well written and I enjoyed it.

The Sweetest Truth
Sadie is an Amish young women who works in an Englisher’s quilt shop and has given up on ever being married. Why? Because six years before half of her face was burnt in a fire and people gasp when they see her. When the handsome young man who works at a nearby ice cream shop meets her, he’s able to see past the scars on her face, but can she? I found it a little annoying how Sadie practically lived in a constant state of self pity. I get it. She went through a lot. There wouldn’t be much of a story if Sadie didn’t constantly pity herself. It just felt like it went on a little too long. Also, the way she reacted to her crush talking to her was way different than I would. That’s probably just a personality difference. Overall, I really did enjoy this story.

Nothing Tastes So Sweet
This one was sad. It tells the story of recently widowed and three months pregnant Hannah. She can’t stand the thought of going back to her parents home so she tries everything she can think of to be able to buy the hardware store she’s worked at for years from her elderly bosses. When she finds she doesn’t have enough money ‘half-amish’ Seth just might be able to help...I almost cried, but I really did enjoy this one as well.

I’d recommend these stories to Hallmark loving Christian women ages 14 and up. Younger girls probably wouldn’t be interested, but they’re completely clean.
Profile Image for Amanda Eggert.
139 reviews
July 9, 2020
I lobed all three stories. Life happened and i coukdnt finish the last story but when i finally got to pick the book back up and start reading again I had no problem remembering what had happend in the beginning of the story. It was a great book that kept me smilimg all the way until the end.
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book507 followers
June 5, 2019
Stock up on chocolate before diving into this sweet read or prepare to fight off chocolate cravings throughout! Each of the three stories in this collection have a distinct flavor, per each author’s unique style, but are all tied together through Beechy’s Sweets. “The Sweetest Courtship” by Miller is completely delightful, the perfect blend of wit, warmth, and romance as Jacob and Rose are thrown together with a little help from his mom Clara and a broken knee. Bradford’s “The Sweetest Truth” is a heartwarming story with humor and heart - as well as some sizzling romantic tension. Readers will embrace Sadie’s journey to accepting that she is still worthy of love, and they’ll fall head over heels in love with Amos in the process. “Nothing Tastes So Sweet” by Mary Ellis doesn’t have quite the same tone as the other two, and it doesn’t have romance as a focus. Despite this - and a couple of continuity hiccups - it stands well on its own with layered characters and a compelling plot.
1,431 reviews7 followers
January 29, 2019
A "sweet" book! I gave 5 stars to each story. Usually with anthologies, because the story is short, it doesn't feel fully developed. But I liked these the way they were.

I liked how each story took place in the same town and characters made cameos in other stories. I also liked how the sweet shop played a role in each story as well.

Great read for Valentine's Day! Love the cover!
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,617 reviews
February 17, 2019
These short Amish novellas are charming. Set around a sweet shop owned by the Beechy family, these stories are quick easy reads with plenty of romance, lovely Amish characters and Valentine’s Day to add to the fun! A perfect Valentine’s Day read.
Profile Image for Anna Marie.
1,389 reviews2 followers
June 20, 2022
This is reminiscent of the 'Love, Inspired' series, "Heart of Main Street - which was five books about businesses all on one street, with a different author taking a different shop/couple for each book in the series. Here, the same thing happens: the first story is the Sweet Shop, the second is the quilt shop, and the third the hardware store.

In the first story, Rose comes to town after losing her son/husband in a buggy accident, and is hired to work at the chocolate shop by a meddling mama of the owner/chocolatier. It's more of a matchmaking attempt than anything, and cranky Jacob isn't a groom for the faint of heart. The story's well written, but shallow and short and doesn't really draw the reader in to the point where they feel like they're satisfied with the tale.

It's annoying that they 'shun technology' but have cellphones in the kitchen drawer because 'gray areas - there's no cord to them, haha'. And the Bishop allows her to work with an electric cash register and use the store phone, because reasons. In other words, 'We believe whatever we want at that moment, and the world is bad but not so bad we won't fudge and use it, anyhow'. Amish are hypocrites.

In the second story, Amos meets the girl in the quilt shop and falls for her, but Sadie's had a polite scar for six years, and can't imagine anyone wanting her. ((By polite I mean that she burned only one cheek, and it was kind enough not to disfigure her ear, affect her speech, smile, or sight, and didn't result in any loss of her hairline.)) The description in this story is abysmal, and the writing is stilted - the author writes like a ten year old who hasn't got a grasp on contractions. "It is so. I can not believe it. I am not okay. I will not be there. Do not look at me." Like that. It's... wincy.

This was probably the best of the three, however... because it was the most realistic. Sadie doesn't hide her feelings, and is brutally honest and open with everyone about how she perceives their treatment of her in light of her disfigurement. She's raw, and you don't get that often in books. It's what brings Amos to love her. It's... good. Really good. But ruined by the hideous writing.

In the third story, Amish chick Hannah has a complicated backstory whilst not-so-Amish guy has an even MORE complicated backstory, and both are thrown together to be complicated in the present. She's widowed, pregnant, and wants to buy the hardware. He's single, ostracized, and wants to buy the same store. There is an ENORMOUS lack of description in this story - we don't even know her hair color, for the love of Pete - and it's so rushed and chopped up as to fit in this 3-popper book set that the complicated back-stories and complicated resolving of things is just too harried to enjoy.

Worse, he'd decided he liked power tools, his truck, and the conveniences of the Englisch, and worked as an Amish guy WITHIN the Englisch world, but the moment he falls for chickie-baby, it's "Oooh... um, well... I don't like Englisch society, so even though I had nothing to do with it I have to throw all my tools and electric stuff out, so I can work on an electric PC and with an electric telephone in a building with electricity (←hardware store)... and NOT be a tech user... wait, what?!

Ugh, ugh, ugh. What a joke they are...

So check out 'Heart of Main Street' series, instead.
Honestly, it's done WAY better.
Profile Image for Cecilia.
265 reviews
January 17, 2019
The Amish Sweet Shop is a collection of three short stories set in Bluebird, Pennsylvania by Laura Bradford, Mary Ellis and Emma Miller.
In The Sweetest Courtship by Emma Mille, we meet Jacob Beechy who owns and operates the best sweet shop around, Beechy’s Sweets. His wonderful mother, Clara is ready for grandchildren and won't let anything stop her from playing matchmaker. Unsuspecting, Rose Bontrager is in town to stay with family and just looking for a job, but with Clara involved there may be a romance baking at the sweet shop.

The Sweetest Truth by Laura Bradford follows sweet Sadie Fisher who works at Bluebird Quilts. Sadie has resolved to live a life alone due to an accident that occurred when she was sixteen leaving her scarred. Her boss, Miss Jenny loves Sadie and encourages her everyday, saying God will send the right man along who will see her beauty despite the scars on her face. Sadie tries not to get to hopeful when a secret admirer starts leaving her gifts on the back porch of Bluebird Quilts. With the help of Miss Jenny and a new friend, Sadie is determined to find the truth, good or bad, behind the gifts.

In Nothing Tastes So Sweet by Mary Ellis, Hannah Kline finds her dreams smashed when her husband passes away in an accident. When Hannah discovers she is pregnant shortly after her husband's passing, she is determined to support herself and not rely on others. She feels that the answer has been laid in her lap, when she discovers that Mr. & Mrs. Howard are selling the hardware store where she has worked for year. Unfortunately, Hannah does not have enough money for the down payment on her own and the Howards suggest that she partner with Seth Miller who is also interested in the store but lacking funds. To obtain the Bishop’s approval, Hannah must clear Seth’s name of an incident that caused him to leave the Amish.

I found the stories to be nicely written and well flowing. I loved how they are not only set in the same town, but also linked together by the characters. The Amish Sweet Shop is a great read and I would recommend it to those who love a great romance.

I received this book from netgalley.com and the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thought and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jess & Tiff.
65 reviews
September 23, 2025
The Amish Sweet Shop is like opening a box of Valentine’s chocolates, three very different flavors, all wrapped in faith, heart, and a little sugar on top. Some pieces you savor slowly, others surprise you, but together they make a sweet sampler worth the read.

The Sweetest Courtship (Emma Miller)
Jacob Beechy, 36, is a candy maker who can turn sugar into art but hasn’t managed to turn companionship into love. Enter Rose, the shop’s new hire, handpicked (and half-schemed) by his matchmaking mother. Both Jacob and Rose carry their own scars from the past loss, grief, guarded hearts, but working side by side melts away the chill. Watching a gruff bachelor find both purpose and tenderness felt like biting into the richest fudge: unexpectedly warm and far more layered than it looks.

The Sweetest Truth (Laura Bradford)
Sadie Fisher hides behind quilts and quietness, convinced her barn fire scars make her unmarriageable. Then the anonymous Valentine’s gifts begin, a rose here, a sweet treat there, and for the first time she dares to hope someone sees her and not just the marks on her skin. By the time the mystery admirer is revealed (no spoilers on who he is, but yes, you’ll smile), it feels like peppermint bark: sharp at first, but dissolving into something sweet, healing, and deeply kind.

Nothing Tastes So Sweet (Mary Ellis)
Hannah’s story hits differently, she’s pregnant, widowed, and determined to build a life on her own terms. Buying the hardware store might not sound romantic, but for her it’s independence, dignity, and survival. Then comes a tangle involving a man wrongly accused, a clue from Beechy’s Sweet Shop, and the slow blooming of trust with someone willing to stand beside her. It’s part mystery, part love story, and all about courage. Think molasses cookies: sturdy, comforting, with a sweetness that sneaks up on you.

Yes, the romances unfold quickly (novella speed-dating, anyone?). But in each story, love isn’t just sugar-coating, it’s redemption, healing, and second chances. And really, isn’t that the sweetest truth of all? 🍬✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Christine.
1,953 reviews60 followers
December 2, 2018
"Amish Sweet Shop" is a collection of three novellas, all set in Bluebird, Pennsylvania. All are Amish romances but each is unique from the other and from other Amish romances I've read. In this collection, the only author I was familiar with was Laura Bradford, I enjoyed all of the stories.

My favorite story is the first one, "The Sweetest Courtship" by Emma Miller. It's set in a candy shop run by Clara Beechy and her hard-working, but brusque son Jacob who is still mourning the death of his fiancée . While screening applicants for an assistant to help at Beechy's Sweets, Clara also has an eye out for who would make the best match for her son. She chooses Rose Bontrager, a widow, who learns to work with Jacob so well, the two of them wonder if they each have a second chance for romance. I would rate this story 4.5 stars.

I also enjoyed "The Sweetest Truth" by Laura Bradford. Sadie Fisher is the last of her friends to be married and has given up on becoming a wife and mother because of the scars she has from a barn fire. She can't believe it when the handsome Amos Yoder seeks her out for friendship or maybe more. This plot of the story is separate from the others, but Clara Beechy makes a brief appearance.

"Nothing Tastes so Sweet" by Mary Ellis is a good story, but my least favorite of the three and I would give it 3.5 stars. I like that the characters are more than just stereotypes and Hannah Kline wants more from her life than relying on her parents to support her and finds the courage, with the help of a cabinet maker named Daniel, to make her dreams come true. Beechy's Sweets is also mentioned in this story.

Together the three stories make a good collection and would be a perfect Valentine's Day treat to yourself.

I received this book from NetGalley through the courtesy of Kensington. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Lisa Phillips.
172 reviews5 followers
December 29, 2018
The is a collection of stories from Bluebird , Pennsylvania. The Sweet Shop is run by Jacob and his mom. He is still unmarried and his mom is trying to find someone to change that . She has to leave to go assist a family member and interviews for someone to help while she is away. Rose seems to fit the part just fine . With a lot of resistance from Jacob and a lot of patience these two will find a way.
Sadie has a job at the Quilt shop close by the Sweet Shop . She is scarred from trying to save horses out of a burning barn. The Quilt shop owner loves seeing Sadie and talking to her . Trying to build her confidence. There is a young man Amos who notices Sadie and appreciates her for who she is . There is a young man in the community who is English that comes around to make fun of her and tear her down. Amos is does his best to protect her and make her feel as beautiful as he sees her.
Hannah works for the hardware store in town. She and her husband stay above the store. He is only home on weekends because of his work. They are trying to save money for their own farm. One day he leaves and does not come home. He is killed on a on the job accident. She continues to work for the owners and soon finds out they want to sell. She is wanting to buy the store with her savings but doesn't have enough. This is where Seth comes in . He is ready for a change and wants to buy the store. Between the two of them they have to work on trusting each other and respecting each others decisions to make the dream of owning work. These stories are short but strong in content.. I was given this book by net galley for my honest review
Profile Image for Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs.
1,959 reviews38 followers
December 27, 2018
A sweet read to get you ready for Valentine's Day. Perfect for the romance reader in your life.

THE SWEETEST COURTSHIP by Emma Miller
Grouchy Jacob Beechy is no match for his mother, who has taken it upon herself to find him a wife. Rose has come to town for a change of scenery and ends up crossing paths with Jacob's mom. Come sit a spell in Beechy's Sweets and watch love melt even the hardest heart in town. By the end of the story, you will be craving fudge with a side of romance.

THE SWEETEST TRUTH by Laura Bradford ***My favorite of the three stories***
A horrific barn fire several years ago changed the life Sadie thought she would have so she has made the life she feels most comfortable living. When a secret admirer starts leaving little gifts for her to find on her lunch break, Sadie's heart starts to soften and she allows herself to dream again. This story will make you smile and your heart tapdance with happiness.

NOTHING TASTES SO SWEET by Mary Ellis
A freak accident suddenly widows Hannah who has just found out she is pregnant. Hannah is thankful for her job at the local hardware store but when the job is in jeopardy Hannah learns she is stronger than she thinks. A sweet tale of how sometimes romance can find a way to heal even the most broken of hearts.

I love reading Amish romance novellas during the holidays as the stories are usually short enough to read in between all the hustle and bustle. You are always guaranteed a happy ending and a smile. Even if Valentine's Day is not your holiday, you will be happy to read these sweet stories. Grab a box of yummy chocolates, put on your fuzzy socks and curl up in your comfy reading chair for one of the sweetest reads of the season.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Linda.
26 reviews
December 23, 2018
The Amish Sweet Shop went on sale in time to stuff the Christmas stockings of inspirational Amish romance readers or saved for a Valentine’s Day treat. It’s a must read that would be enjoyed by book club members or anyone who enjoys a bit of non-cloying romance in their lives! This trio of novellas by seasoned romance and murder mystery authors is a welcome addition to this genre. Emma Miller, author of “Hannah’s Daughter’s” romance and “Stone Mill” murder mysteries, Laura Bradford (who also writes as Elizabeth Lynn Casey) prolific author of five cozy mystery series so far, an Agatha nominee and romance reader favorite and Mary Ellis, an award-winning best-selling author of Amish romances followed by well-crafted mysteries have each contributed a novella, bite-sized reads to be enjoyed individually whole when leisure time is brief or as complementary thirds of a whole.

Typical Amish themed books focus on young love, a wavering in faith to overcome followed by promise of marriage and family; happy ending, the end. Instead, these authors have each chosen a more mature and to me more interesting perspective. Their heroines have faced adversity and in some cases, life’s challenges including death of a beloved spouse. The stories are set in the same farming community, united by faith based values and “Beechy’s” homemade candy. They are sweet treats, calorie free for holiday gifting and something to be savored. Emma Miller, Laura Bradford and Mary Ellis are three authors who continue to delight and surprise their growing fan base.
Profile Image for Terri Wangard.
Author 12 books160 followers
November 29, 2018
In The Sweetest Courtship, Rose is a delight. Jacob is a curmudgeon trapped in the past. His fiancée died, but when he learns Rose lost her husband and son just eighteen months ago and is still joyful despite her loss, he realizes he has no excuse to be sullen. His mother is a conniving matchmaker, but they both are good-natured with her.

Scarred Sadie in The Sweetest Truth refuses to believe anyone will ever see past her scarred cheek from a barn fire five years ago. I know from long years of being bullied that being different is no fun, but Sadie’s self-pity gets tiresome. Amos Yoder doesn’t give up on her though.

My favorite is Nothing Tastes So Sweet. Hannah’s husband dies, leaving her expecting their first child. She works at Howard’s Hardware store, and when the Howards decide to retire, she wants to buy the store. So does Seth Miller, whose father believed the worst of him five years ago. Neither can afford the store on their own, but a partnership will work, if Seth reconciles with his father and joins the Amish church.

These three Amish novellas are quick, fun reads.

Profile Image for Jill.
1,201 reviews9 followers
December 20, 2018
4 stars overall
The Amish Sweet Shop is a compilation book of three short stories all revolving around the same small Amish community and shops.

The first book “The Sweetest Courtship” by Emma Miller is a sweet, romantic story that is a tad predictable but oh, so satisfying. I really enjoyed this one and give it 4 stars.

The second story in the book was easily my favorite! “The Sweetest Truth” by Laura Bradford. I just loved this story. I truly wish this book would be made into a full-length novel! 5 stars for this one!

The third story “Nothing Tastes So Sweet” by Mary Ellis started off so good. It just rapidly fell into the realm of trying to throw too much into one small book. This would have been much better as a full-length novel. I only give this story 3 stars.
Overall, I highly recommend this book who loves sweet Amish Romance books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #AmishSweetShop #NetGalley #Kensington
Profile Image for Diane.
2,815 reviews22 followers
December 29, 2018
The Amish Sweet Shop features three entertaining and sweetly romantic novellas of true love with delightful but imperfect characters who own businesses in the picturesque modern day Amish town of Bluebird, Pennsylvania. There’s a well meaning but meddling matchmaker at the candy shop, a lonely and disillusioned young woman at the quilt shop and a young married woman who is about to go through serious life changes when her bosses decide to sell the Hardware store where she works in town. Settle in with a cup of tea and immerse yourself in these heartwarming stories that are guaranteed to warm your heart on the coldest December day. I read a complimentary copy of this book provided by Kensington Books through NetGalley and all opinions expressed in my voluntary review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Pamela Pavkov.
1,263 reviews24 followers
January 6, 2019
Nothing Taste So Sweet is a novella written by Mary Ellis in The Amish Sweet Shop book. This is an amazing collection of sweet stories written by Emma Miller, Laura Bradford, and Mary Ellis. Each story has a fantastic storyline that revolves around Valentines Day.

The characters are amazing and do a wonderful job telling the story. I enjoyed each character.
I absolutely loved the cover of this book it really draws in the reader.

I was not given an advanced copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Mary Ellis on writing another fantastic story for her readers to enjoy.
762 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2020
I like these type of books because you know that all problems will be solved, there is little violence and a happy ending. This book has three short stories set in the town of Bluebird where both Amish and English live and work. A widowed Amish woman comes to town to start a new life and finds it at a candy store. Another young woman must learn to see herself as others see her. Although a tragedy begins this story, there is hope ahead for an Amish woman who prefers working in a store to farm life. The only author I knew in this book was Laura Bradford who writes both mysteries and women's fiction. Her story somewhat reminded me of her book A Daughter's truth because of the gifts left for Sadie.
1,012 reviews8 followers
April 8, 2023
There are three stories, each by a different author in this book. Some of the characters overlap. They live in Bluebird, PA - a small English/Amish town near Lancaster.
My favorite one was titled "Nothing Tastes So Sweet" by Mary Ellis. A young Amish woman who was recently widowed discovers that her employers want to sell their hardware store so they can retire and move to a warmer climate. Hannah wants to buy the store and continue to serve the Amish community's needs for non-electric tools which would certainly change if the big-box hardware chain was to take it over. Lacking enough money for a down payment, Hannah finds herself in need of a business partner. Can she and Seth Miller find mutual ground and make this work?
2,290 reviews40 followers
November 30, 2018
Love is in the air
It’s Valentine’s Day in Amish country and while they do n to celebrate such holidays, love blooms and this collection of short stories shares their stories.

While all three are separate stories, all take place in the same location and the second and third stories reference the first so they feel a bit more connected. These are easy, quick reads and will fill your heart with hope and love as Valentine’s Day arrives.

While I am not a big romance fan, I was in the mood for something different and I love Amish themes, so I reached for this collection. I was not disappointed. Simple living and pure love make this trio the perfect trifecta!
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