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Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop
As the most joyful holiday draws near, three couples discover the recipe for love includes faith, hope, and the sweetest blessings . . . A CHRISTMAS CAKE FOR REBECCANew York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Shelley Shepard Gray When carpenter Aden returns to Lancaster after twenty years away, bakeshop owner Rebecca is dismayed to find he’s still as handsome and kind as ever. He broke her heart when he left the community back then. Will a holiday emergency provide a second chance at love, this time forever? BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER * USA Today Bestselling AuthorRachel J. Good When a lonely widower with a sick daughter and a new cake decorator meet at the bakeshop, they discover they were once childhood playmates. But as each of them helps the other care for family, their neighborly kindness inspires a gift that only love could make possible . . . THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE * USA Today Bestselling Author Loree Lough A builder who never learned to read believes he must hide his fond feelings for a kind schoolteacher. But after they run into each other at the bakeshop, she offers to teach him—and as Christmas approaches, each of them learns a lesson about the great gift of love . . .
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2021
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
140 books2,405 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
November 3, 2021
What a wonderful book! My favorite authors have come together to write three novella length Christmas stories revolving around Rebecca’s Porch, a bakery shop in Lancaster County,Pennsylvania.
All the stories have some of the stress and business of Christmas in them but with help,tenderness,kind words,understanding,forgiveness and a community coming together the stories have wonderful,happy endings. This really put me in the holiday baking mood and made me feel good while reading it. I was actually smiling while reading it, I had a warm happy feeling. I made a connection with the characters and am looking forward to reading much more from these talented authors.
Pub Date 28 Sep 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
All the stories have some of the stress and business of Christmas in them but with help,tenderness,kind words,understanding,forgiveness and a community coming together the stories have wonderful,happy endings. This really put me in the holiday baking mood and made me feel good while reading it. I was actually smiling while reading it, I had a warm happy feeling. I made a connection with the characters and am looking forward to reading much more from these talented authors.
Pub Date 28 Sep 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 24, 2021
Shelley Shepard Gray, Rachel J. Good, and Loree Lough?!? In one book?!? A Christmas collection?!? Well… Nobody had to twist my arm to read Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop, that’s for sure! On the contrary, I jumped at the chance and thoroughly enjoyed it from cover to cover. Though the stories are connected by one bakeshop, each story highlights the respective author’s strengths and unique style and with these three authors you can’t go wrong!
Gray’s A Christmas Cake for Rebecca sets the stage for the collection, revolving around the popular bakeshop’s owner & her penchant for doing the work of five people by herself. Boy, I could relate to Rebecca – her tendency (read: stubbornness) to try & do it all and how that affects her emotional and physical health. I loved her bakery staff & how they would do anything to help Rebecca, if she’ll just let them. And oh yes I loved Aden – and his Christmas cake!! This swoony carpenter is the one who got away, and watching their still-there-after-20-years feelings resurface and deepen as adults (with all their life experiences that have shaped them since they were much younger and in love) was truly a pleasure. Gray’s signature warmth is ever-present, and her ability to create characters you adore is also firmly in place. Be prepared to smile (and crave Christmas cake haha).
In Good’s Best Christmas Present Ever, readers are treated to a heart-tugging story of a very sick little girl, her widower father, and the empathetic young woman who captures both their hearts. This novella gave me all the feels: I ached over Johanna’s illness and Lizzie’s aunt’s dementia; I chuckled at some of Lizzie’s mishaps; I melted over Christian & Lizzie’s shared backstory & their blossoming romance; and the underlying message of kindness and putting others first was especially heartwarming. I loved getting further insight into Rebecca’s own heart, as much of the novella is set in the bakeshop, and I loved even more watching Lizzie flourish there. The author did an excellent job with character development and crafting a layered story despite the shorter word count.
The Christmas Cupcake by Lough introduces us to caring teacher Tessa and local builder Asher. Each of these characters is harboring a rather sensitive (and separate) secret, and I appreciated the way the author handled these topics with grace – as well as how she allowed these layers to naturally peel back as the characters’ friendship (and then romance) grows. This novella was less connected to the other two, and we really only see Rebecca’s bakeshop in passing. But it’s a sweet story on its own merit, and there’s no denying Lough’s talent at creating dimensional characters.
Bottom Line: Three talented authors, three swoony romances, three sets of strong & likable main characters, and a common setting that ties them all together – add in a healthy dose of Christmas and how can you possibly go wrong? Rebecca, Lizzie, and Tessa are heroines who each embody the message of the holiday with their compassionate & gracious hearts, and their respective heroes perfectly complement them. Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop is the perfect collection for long-time fans of Gray, Good & Lough, as well as brand-new-to-them readers!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Gray’s A Christmas Cake for Rebecca sets the stage for the collection, revolving around the popular bakeshop’s owner & her penchant for doing the work of five people by herself. Boy, I could relate to Rebecca – her tendency (read: stubbornness) to try & do it all and how that affects her emotional and physical health. I loved her bakery staff & how they would do anything to help Rebecca, if she’ll just let them. And oh yes I loved Aden – and his Christmas cake!! This swoony carpenter is the one who got away, and watching their still-there-after-20-years feelings resurface and deepen as adults (with all their life experiences that have shaped them since they were much younger and in love) was truly a pleasure. Gray’s signature warmth is ever-present, and her ability to create characters you adore is also firmly in place. Be prepared to smile (and crave Christmas cake haha).
In Good’s Best Christmas Present Ever, readers are treated to a heart-tugging story of a very sick little girl, her widower father, and the empathetic young woman who captures both their hearts. This novella gave me all the feels: I ached over Johanna’s illness and Lizzie’s aunt’s dementia; I chuckled at some of Lizzie’s mishaps; I melted over Christian & Lizzie’s shared backstory & their blossoming romance; and the underlying message of kindness and putting others first was especially heartwarming. I loved getting further insight into Rebecca’s own heart, as much of the novella is set in the bakeshop, and I loved even more watching Lizzie flourish there. The author did an excellent job with character development and crafting a layered story despite the shorter word count.
The Christmas Cupcake by Lough introduces us to caring teacher Tessa and local builder Asher. Each of these characters is harboring a rather sensitive (and separate) secret, and I appreciated the way the author handled these topics with grace – as well as how she allowed these layers to naturally peel back as the characters’ friendship (and then romance) grows. This novella was less connected to the other two, and we really only see Rebecca’s bakeshop in passing. But it’s a sweet story on its own merit, and there’s no denying Lough’s talent at creating dimensional characters.
Bottom Line: Three talented authors, three swoony romances, three sets of strong & likable main characters, and a common setting that ties them all together – add in a healthy dose of Christmas and how can you possibly go wrong? Rebecca, Lizzie, and Tessa are heroines who each embody the message of the holiday with their compassionate & gracious hearts, and their respective heroes perfectly complement them. Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop is the perfect collection for long-time fans of Gray, Good & Lough, as well as brand-new-to-them readers!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
October 12, 2021
This novella collection was one I could hardly set down. These three stories really captured my attention and I connected with the characters in each story very quickly, wanting everything to work out well for all of them.
All three novellas have a connection to Rebecca’s Porch, a bakery that is owned by the main character, Rebecca, in the first novella. The first two novellas take place at the bakery for much of their stories and I really liked seeing characters from the first novella appear in the second one, too. The third novella had a scene at the bakery and the main character, Tessa, loved to pick up cupcakes from Rebecca’s Porch to share with her students for birthdays. Otherwise, there wasn’t much of a connection to the bakery. However, the third novella was still a good and impactful story.
The first and second novellas were wonderful second chance love stories that tugged at my heart and the third novella touched on the topic of abuse in a careful and caring manner. All three stories were sweet and clean and had good faith messages woven into them. Another thing that binds these stories together is that each one has a heroine who cares deeply for others and tries to do things for others that will bless them.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
All three novellas have a connection to Rebecca’s Porch, a bakery that is owned by the main character, Rebecca, in the first novella. The first two novellas take place at the bakery for much of their stories and I really liked seeing characters from the first novella appear in the second one, too. The third novella had a scene at the bakery and the main character, Tessa, loved to pick up cupcakes from Rebecca’s Porch to share with her students for birthdays. Otherwise, there wasn’t much of a connection to the bakery. However, the third novella was still a good and impactful story.
The first and second novellas were wonderful second chance love stories that tugged at my heart and the third novella touched on the topic of abuse in a careful and caring manner. All three stories were sweet and clean and had good faith messages woven into them. Another thing that binds these stories together is that each one has a heroine who cares deeply for others and tries to do things for others that will bless them.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
June 28, 2021
These three stories are sweet and entertaining stories centered around a bakery called Rachel's Porch. I love how they are all intermingled and the characters from previous stories end up in another story. It feels very connected and well-written. However, at times, I didn't think that enough research might have been done on the Amish way of life.
I have been around Old Order, New Order, and even Mennonites and occasionally a character would behave or say something that would be considered wrong in the Amish faith. But, that being said, I did love these stories and the characters in them. I honestly wish the stories were longer so I could read more about the families and couples - but, perhaps that occurs in the next book.
These three books are a quick read and would be a perfect lazy, day book.
Thank you NetGalley for the free copy for my review. All opinions are my own.
I have been around Old Order, New Order, and even Mennonites and occasionally a character would behave or say something that would be considered wrong in the Amish faith. But, that being said, I did love these stories and the characters in them. I honestly wish the stories were longer so I could read more about the families and couples - but, perhaps that occurs in the next book.
These three books are a quick read and would be a perfect lazy, day book.
Thank you NetGalley for the free copy for my review. All opinions are my own.
October 5, 2021
"Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop" is a trilogy: A Christmas Cake for Rebecca by Shelley Shepard Gray, Best Christmas Present Ever by Rachel J. Good and The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough, published this year, 2021. I had read Gray previously but the other authors were new to me.
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca by Shelley Shepard Gray
The bakeshop is Rebecca's and is very successful. She has found peace and happiness even though she never married. She also has created a one-of-a-kind delicious plus beautiful Christmas cake that people literally make orders for in June! She has always limited the number to 100 but a new hire unknowingly has increased that to 150. How will she get them all done? Add to that stress Aden is back. He broke her heart 20 years ago when he left. And he keeps showing up at her shop.
The story is sweet and was my favorite of the three. The novella is complete & completely enjoyable. I ended up liking Aden after all. And I would LOVE to have one of Rebecca's special Christmas cakes.
Rating: 5 stars.
Best Christmas Present Ever by Rachel J. Good
This story is nicely linked with A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. We find out the name of Rebecca's shop and that Rebecca is the kind of boss you always wished for. Our female lead, Lizzie, seems to be extraordinarily clumsy. But she truly cares about people and a widower with a very sick little girl pulls her heart strings like nothing else. Oh ... she is why Rebecca went from 100 to 150 cakes. There is a dog in this story too. I'm a sucker for cute puppies.
I liked this story a lot but it did have a major errors. At 43% of the trilogy, a major error ... "X would stop by the hospital around ten..." Obviously X was placeholder while the writer was determining names. However, this error should have been caught multiple times. As this has a well-known publisher, I'm astonished it never was. At times too Englisher words were used. For example, I can't imagine an Amish man saying he was going to "park" the horse & buggy.
Rating: 3.5 -- minus 1 star for the "X" and .5 stars for the non-Amish wording several times.
The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough
I was disappointed that this story had little to do with the bakeshop. It was mentioned several times but I never felt it was important to the story. For me, this story felt disconnected from the other two. Builder Asher meets schoolteacher Tess at the bakeshop and eventually he asks her to help him learn to read and Tess shares her burden -- a father who is never satisfied with anything she does. He finds fault with everything and is cruel. Yet away from home, she can be the person she really is.
I just couldn't get into this story although it did have one statement about the bakeshop that resonated with me. "Because here at Rebecca's Porch, whether my order is large or small, I get the same friendly treatment." Rude treatment can drive customers away permanently and I have been such a customer.
Rating: 3 stars.
Trilogy rating: 4 stars (5 + 3.5 + 3 = 11.5 / 3 = 3.8)
Cover rating: Good. However, the bright yellow words are much harder to read on a small screen such as an iPhone or in a grid of a Kindle Fire.
I was provided this book by NetGalley for an unbiased review.
#ChristmasattheAmishBakeshop #NetGalley
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca by Shelley Shepard Gray
The bakeshop is Rebecca's and is very successful. She has found peace and happiness even though she never married. She also has created a one-of-a-kind delicious plus beautiful Christmas cake that people literally make orders for in June! She has always limited the number to 100 but a new hire unknowingly has increased that to 150. How will she get them all done? Add to that stress Aden is back. He broke her heart 20 years ago when he left. And he keeps showing up at her shop.
The story is sweet and was my favorite of the three. The novella is complete & completely enjoyable. I ended up liking Aden after all. And I would LOVE to have one of Rebecca's special Christmas cakes.
Rating: 5 stars.
Best Christmas Present Ever by Rachel J. Good
This story is nicely linked with A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. We find out the name of Rebecca's shop and that Rebecca is the kind of boss you always wished for. Our female lead, Lizzie, seems to be extraordinarily clumsy. But she truly cares about people and a widower with a very sick little girl pulls her heart strings like nothing else. Oh ... she is why Rebecca went from 100 to 150 cakes. There is a dog in this story too. I'm a sucker for cute puppies.
I liked this story a lot but it did have a major errors. At 43% of the trilogy, a major error ... "X would stop by the hospital around ten..." Obviously X was placeholder while the writer was determining names. However, this error should have been caught multiple times. As this has a well-known publisher, I'm astonished it never was. At times too Englisher words were used. For example, I can't imagine an Amish man saying he was going to "park" the horse & buggy.
Rating: 3.5 -- minus 1 star for the "X" and .5 stars for the non-Amish wording several times.
The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough
I was disappointed that this story had little to do with the bakeshop. It was mentioned several times but I never felt it was important to the story. For me, this story felt disconnected from the other two. Builder Asher meets schoolteacher Tess at the bakeshop and eventually he asks her to help him learn to read and Tess shares her burden -- a father who is never satisfied with anything she does. He finds fault with everything and is cruel. Yet away from home, she can be the person she really is.
I just couldn't get into this story although it did have one statement about the bakeshop that resonated with me. "Because here at Rebecca's Porch, whether my order is large or small, I get the same friendly treatment." Rude treatment can drive customers away permanently and I have been such a customer.
Rating: 3 stars.
Trilogy rating: 4 stars (5 + 3.5 + 3 = 11.5 / 3 = 3.8)
Cover rating: Good. However, the bright yellow words are much harder to read on a small screen such as an iPhone or in a grid of a Kindle Fire.
I was provided this book by NetGalley for an unbiased review.
#ChristmasattheAmishBakeshop #NetGalley
December 25, 2024
Three Amish Christmas Novellas all in one book! I was hooked on each story and had a hard time putting the book down. I liked how each story was linked with the surrounding area of Bird in Hand/Lancaster & was part of or mentioned the bakeshop. I really loved the characters and especially enjoyed the couple in the second story, " Best Christmas Present Ever".
October 5, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book! It really gets you in the Christmas mood. I would recommend it to anyone. A Christmas Cake for Rebecca by Shelley Shepard Gray is a story about forgiveness and redemption. Rebecca Christner is a sweet, loving and giving Amish girl who tries to see the good in everyone and doesn't judge people who might be a little down on their luck. Her last name "Christ"ner suits her well..... She loves like Christ does. We all should have a heart like Rebecca has.
She is the owner of a bakery called Rebecca's Porch. It's a place where people can find love, kindness, and acceptance.
Aden Raber, her childhood sweetheart, broke her heart years ago. He returns home and shakes up her world once again. Most of us have been in same situation...... How do we handle those feelings? Do we extend kindness or hold on to resentment? Does Rebecca show Aden the same kindness as she does her friends who come to her bakery?
Rebecca's Porch's legacy continues in Rachel J.Good's story, "Best Christmas Present Ever". Lizzie is a beautiful and sweet Amish girl who is unsure of herself because of how she grew up. She left town years ago and loses touch with friends. A family emergency brings her back home. She gets a job at Rebecca's Porch where she meets Christian Yoder.
Christian is an handsome Amish man who is also unsure of his world because of things beyond his control. He's looking for acceptance and trust -- the same things Lizzie is searching for. Everyone is looking for acceptance. True acceptance has to come from God first. Will they ever find the things they long for the most?
The legacy of Rebecca's porch goes on in Loree Lough's "The Christmas Cupcake." Tessa Beachy is the beautiful local teacher who loves everyone even those who are unkind. She's had a hard life but always has a smile on her face. She especially loves the kids in her class room and often spoils them with cupcakes. She always drives extra miles to Rebecca's Porch because of the kind and friendly service. She runs into Asher Stuery at Rebecca's Porch.
Asher is an handsome Amish builder who has a secret problem that Tessa can help him solve.Tessa also has a secret she keeps from everyone. We all have secrets that only God knows about. Are they ready o take a chance to see each other's hearts so they both can heal?
She is the owner of a bakery called Rebecca's Porch. It's a place where people can find love, kindness, and acceptance.
Aden Raber, her childhood sweetheart, broke her heart years ago. He returns home and shakes up her world once again. Most of us have been in same situation...... How do we handle those feelings? Do we extend kindness or hold on to resentment? Does Rebecca show Aden the same kindness as she does her friends who come to her bakery?
Rebecca's Porch's legacy continues in Rachel J.Good's story, "Best Christmas Present Ever". Lizzie is a beautiful and sweet Amish girl who is unsure of herself because of how she grew up. She left town years ago and loses touch with friends. A family emergency brings her back home. She gets a job at Rebecca's Porch where she meets Christian Yoder.
Christian is an handsome Amish man who is also unsure of his world because of things beyond his control. He's looking for acceptance and trust -- the same things Lizzie is searching for. Everyone is looking for acceptance. True acceptance has to come from God first. Will they ever find the things they long for the most?
The legacy of Rebecca's porch goes on in Loree Lough's "The Christmas Cupcake." Tessa Beachy is the beautiful local teacher who loves everyone even those who are unkind. She's had a hard life but always has a smile on her face. She especially loves the kids in her class room and often spoils them with cupcakes. She always drives extra miles to Rebecca's Porch because of the kind and friendly service. She runs into Asher Stuery at Rebecca's Porch.
Asher is an handsome Amish builder who has a secret problem that Tessa can help him solve.Tessa also has a secret she keeps from everyone. We all have secrets that only God knows about. Are they ready o take a chance to see each other's hearts so they both can heal?
July 29, 2021
I am such a sucker for a good Christmas story, and these are all good. Throw in a bakeshop and they’re beyond good. Full of Christmas charm, I enjoyed each one. I liked the way the characters overlapped in each story. You felt as though you really got to know them and wanted to spend time with them. At the bakeshop of course, having coffee and Christmas cookies.
Each story is heartwarming, full of second chances, faith, and hope. If you enjoy Amish stories, Christmas stories, or simply relaxing novellas, then I highly recommend this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Each story is heartwarming, full of second chances, faith, and hope. If you enjoy Amish stories, Christmas stories, or simply relaxing novellas, then I highly recommend this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
August 31, 2021
These three novella Christmas stories are sweet and filled with baking and romance with each centering around Rebecca’s Bake Shop.
Shelley Shepard Gray brought a lovely story between adults Rebecca and Aiden in A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. Their love story began before as young teens. Rebecca was known for her beautiful Christmas cakes. But what will happen right at Christmas when she becomes ill with all the long hours she had been working to fill so many orders?
The Best Christmas Present Ever by Rachel J. Good explored childhood friends Christian Yoder and Lizzie. Lizzie was an amazing cake decorator and had a heart for others. How will Lizzie minister to Christian and his young daughter who is in the hospital when they met at the bake shop? I enjoy this story as a dog brought joy to several characters.
Loree Lough contribution brought The Christmas Cupcake tale that found school teacher Tess buying cupcakes for her students to celebrate birthdays. When Asher Stuery became sweet on Tess how will he win her over when she feels an obligation to her abusive father and caring for him in their home. I enjoy her brother Noah and his determination to aid Asher.
These fun tales will bring smiles, a desire to bake and maybe experiment with making fancy cupcakes or a beautiful Christmas cake this upcoming holiday season.
Thank you to Keningston Books and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book. Plus being a winner on Goodreads to win a final e-copy of delightful tale. I was under no obligation to write a positive review and have expressed my own pinon.
Shelley Shepard Gray brought a lovely story between adults Rebecca and Aiden in A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. Their love story began before as young teens. Rebecca was known for her beautiful Christmas cakes. But what will happen right at Christmas when she becomes ill with all the long hours she had been working to fill so many orders?
The Best Christmas Present Ever by Rachel J. Good explored childhood friends Christian Yoder and Lizzie. Lizzie was an amazing cake decorator and had a heart for others. How will Lizzie minister to Christian and his young daughter who is in the hospital when they met at the bake shop? I enjoy this story as a dog brought joy to several characters.
Loree Lough contribution brought The Christmas Cupcake tale that found school teacher Tess buying cupcakes for her students to celebrate birthdays. When Asher Stuery became sweet on Tess how will he win her over when she feels an obligation to her abusive father and caring for him in their home. I enjoy her brother Noah and his determination to aid Asher.
These fun tales will bring smiles, a desire to bake and maybe experiment with making fancy cupcakes or a beautiful Christmas cake this upcoming holiday season.
Thank you to Keningston Books and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book. Plus being a winner on Goodreads to win a final e-copy of delightful tale. I was under no obligation to write a positive review and have expressed my own pinon.
January 31, 2022
I love getting three books in one volume from three good authors. I loved them all. The second book, The Best Christmas Present Ever was adorable. I enjoyed reading about this precious young woman that is criticized and discouraged but so selfless that she goes to help a sickly aunt. When she finds a job at this wonderful bakery kind of cafe, she finds so much kindness and love and God uses these precious ones to let her see how many wonderful qualities she has. The third book, The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough, was very realistic because of the difficult decisions that had to made, forgiveness, hope and finally, love.
I really liked how each author kept the same characters and used the same towns in Lancaster and Bird in Hand Pennsylvania. It was very creative how they all worked together to make it flow.
I really liked how each author kept the same characters and used the same towns in Lancaster and Bird in Hand Pennsylvania. It was very creative how they all worked together to make it flow.
August 13, 2021
Thank you Kensington Books for allowing me to read Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop
by Shelley Shepard Gray; Rachel J. Good; and Loree Lough through NetGalley. The book will be released, September 28, 2021.
A CHRISTMAS CAKE FOR REBECCA by Shelly Shepherd Gray, is a delightful story of Aden and Rebecah’s love lost, love found. Can second chances really happen? Will a holiday illness bring about this chance?
5-stars, easy to read, enjoyable.
BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER by Rachel J. Good
Lizzie moves back to her hometown to care for an ill aunt. After getting a job in a bake shop, she meets Christian Yoder who is caring for his daughter, Johnna, who is having to undergo surgery. Who who have guess these two would get a chance for friendship and possibly more. As always, Rachel tells a 5-star story.
THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE by Loree Lough
Tessa Beachy is the community school teacher and the daughter to an explosive father and sister to a lovable brother Noah. The Stuery family was community neighbors but the younger brother, Asher, piqued her interest. Could she trust anyone to be kind, loving, and caring after the example her father had shown her? A wonderful 5-star story told by Loree for us to enjoy.
These ladies have interwoven each individual tales around the bakery, Rebecca’s Porch. Very uniquely, these ladies have told individual, stand-alone stories that center around this one bakery in this 5-star collection.
I was given an ARC by Kensington Books through Netgalley. All options are mine, and I was not required to give a positive review.
by Shelley Shepard Gray; Rachel J. Good; and Loree Lough through NetGalley. The book will be released, September 28, 2021.
A CHRISTMAS CAKE FOR REBECCA by Shelly Shepherd Gray, is a delightful story of Aden and Rebecah’s love lost, love found. Can second chances really happen? Will a holiday illness bring about this chance?
5-stars, easy to read, enjoyable.
BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER by Rachel J. Good
Lizzie moves back to her hometown to care for an ill aunt. After getting a job in a bake shop, she meets Christian Yoder who is caring for his daughter, Johnna, who is having to undergo surgery. Who who have guess these two would get a chance for friendship and possibly more. As always, Rachel tells a 5-star story.
THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE by Loree Lough
Tessa Beachy is the community school teacher and the daughter to an explosive father and sister to a lovable brother Noah. The Stuery family was community neighbors but the younger brother, Asher, piqued her interest. Could she trust anyone to be kind, loving, and caring after the example her father had shown her? A wonderful 5-star story told by Loree for us to enjoy.
These ladies have interwoven each individual tales around the bakery, Rebecca’s Porch. Very uniquely, these ladies have told individual, stand-alone stories that center around this one bakery in this 5-star collection.
I was given an ARC by Kensington Books through Netgalley. All options are mine, and I was not required to give a positive review.
February 3, 2022
A sweet book with interconnected stories of people who have difficulties but face them head on and help each other. I loved the style and the characters of the book! This is a quick and uplifting read that is entertaining and teaches lessons about not being too independent and being willing to accept help.
I won a copy of this book on my Kindle. All opinions expressed are my own.
I won a copy of this book on my Kindle. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 24, 2021
Christmas season and baked goods...the perfect plot to any story. These three stories all left me with a warm hug and I couldn't wait to read the next one. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced copy
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced copy
October 27, 2021
“A Christmas Cake for Rebecca” by Shelley Shepard Gray
The bakeshop is Rebecca’s and is very successful. She has found peace and happiness even though she never married. She also has created a one-of-a-kind delicious plus beautiful Christmas cake that people literally make orders for in June! She has always limited the number to 100 but a new hire unknowingly has increased that to 150. How will she get them all done? Add to that stress Aden is back. He broke her heart 20 years ago when he left. And he keeps showing up at her shop.
The story is sweet and was my favorite of the three. The novella is complete & completely enjoyable. I ended up liking Aden after all. And I would LOVE to have one of Rebecca’s special Christmas cakes.
Rating for “A Christmas Cake for Rebecca”: 5 stars.
“Best Christmas Present Ever” by Rachel J. Good
This story is nicely linked with “A Christmas Cake for Rebecca”. We find out the name of Rebecca’s shop and that Rebecca is the kind of boss you always wished for. Our female lead, Lizzie, seems to be extraordinarily clumsy. But she truly cares about people and a widower with a very sick little girl pulls her heart strings like nothing else. Oh … she is why Rebecca went from 100 to 150 cakes. There is a dog in this story too. I’m a sucker for cute puppies.
I liked this story a lot but it did have a major errors. At 43% of the trilogy, a major error … “X would stop by the hospital around ten…” Obviously X was placeholder while the writer was determining names. However, this error should have been caught multiple times. As this has a well-known publisher, I’m astonished it never was. At times too ‘Englisher’ words were used. For example, I can’t imagine an Amish man saying he was going to “park” the horse & buggy.
Rating for “Best Christmas Present Ever”: 3.5 stars.
--Minus 1 star for the “X” placeholder and .5 stars for the non-Amish wording utilized several times.
“The Christmas Cupcake” by Loree Lough
I was disappointed that this story had little to do with the characters from the bakeshop. For me, this story felt disconnected for the other two.
Builder Asher meets schoolteacher Tess at the bakeshop and eventually he asks her to help him learn to read and Tess shares her burden — a father who is never satisfied with anything she does. He finds fault with everything and is cruel. Yet away from home, she can be the person she really is.
I just couldn’t get into this story although it did have one statement about the bakeshop that resonated with me. “Because here at Rebecca’s Porch, whether my order is large or small, I get the same friendly treatment.” Rude treatment can drive customers away permanently and I have been such a customer.
Rating: 3 stars
A thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington Books, for the opportunity to read and review an ARC (advanced reader’s copy) of this book. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Trilogy rating: 4 stars (5 + 3.5 + 3 = 11.5 / 3 = 3.8)
Cover rating: Good. The bright yellow words are much harder to read on a small screen such as an iPhone or in a grid of a Kindle Fire.
Publish date: 28 Sep 2021
#ChristmasattheAmishBakeshop #NetGalley
The bakeshop is Rebecca’s and is very successful. She has found peace and happiness even though she never married. She also has created a one-of-a-kind delicious plus beautiful Christmas cake that people literally make orders for in June! She has always limited the number to 100 but a new hire unknowingly has increased that to 150. How will she get them all done? Add to that stress Aden is back. He broke her heart 20 years ago when he left. And he keeps showing up at her shop.
The story is sweet and was my favorite of the three. The novella is complete & completely enjoyable. I ended up liking Aden after all. And I would LOVE to have one of Rebecca’s special Christmas cakes.
Rating for “A Christmas Cake for Rebecca”: 5 stars.
“Best Christmas Present Ever” by Rachel J. Good
This story is nicely linked with “A Christmas Cake for Rebecca”. We find out the name of Rebecca’s shop and that Rebecca is the kind of boss you always wished for. Our female lead, Lizzie, seems to be extraordinarily clumsy. But she truly cares about people and a widower with a very sick little girl pulls her heart strings like nothing else. Oh … she is why Rebecca went from 100 to 150 cakes. There is a dog in this story too. I’m a sucker for cute puppies.
I liked this story a lot but it did have a major errors. At 43% of the trilogy, a major error … “X would stop by the hospital around ten…” Obviously X was placeholder while the writer was determining names. However, this error should have been caught multiple times. As this has a well-known publisher, I’m astonished it never was. At times too ‘Englisher’ words were used. For example, I can’t imagine an Amish man saying he was going to “park” the horse & buggy.
Rating for “Best Christmas Present Ever”: 3.5 stars.
--Minus 1 star for the “X” placeholder and .5 stars for the non-Amish wording utilized several times.
“The Christmas Cupcake” by Loree Lough
I was disappointed that this story had little to do with the characters from the bakeshop. For me, this story felt disconnected for the other two.
Builder Asher meets schoolteacher Tess at the bakeshop and eventually he asks her to help him learn to read and Tess shares her burden — a father who is never satisfied with anything she does. He finds fault with everything and is cruel. Yet away from home, she can be the person she really is.
I just couldn’t get into this story although it did have one statement about the bakeshop that resonated with me. “Because here at Rebecca’s Porch, whether my order is large or small, I get the same friendly treatment.” Rude treatment can drive customers away permanently and I have been such a customer.
Rating: 3 stars
A thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington Books, for the opportunity to read and review an ARC (advanced reader’s copy) of this book. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Trilogy rating: 4 stars (5 + 3.5 + 3 = 11.5 / 3 = 3.8)
Cover rating: Good. The bright yellow words are much harder to read on a small screen such as an iPhone or in a grid of a Kindle Fire.
Publish date: 28 Sep 2021
#ChristmasattheAmishBakeshop #NetGalley
January 3, 2023
A CHRISTMAS CAKE FOR REBECCA BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY
I could smell the baked goods as Rebecca worked at her shop. She has done well for herself and is content. Christmas is drawing near which means it is time for her to start prepping for her famous Christmas Cake. People order the famous cake starting in October just to make sure they get one. I would love to have a taste of that cake as the author describes it so vividly. When Rebecca spots someone from her past she can’t believe her eyes. Aden is in town doing some remodeling work and is excited to see her again. Old memories for Rebecca surface as she remembers that Aden broke her heart.
After twenty-five years Aden is hoping he can be forgiven by Rebecca. The story is a great look at pride as well. Rebecca has always made these special cakes all by herself. She doesn’t allow anyone to help her and takes great pleasure in seeing her cakes all lined up on Christmas Eve to picked up. This year turns out differently and Rebecca learns that it is okay to ask for help. Her cakes will always be special but she has to allow others to help her and share in the enjoyment of those special cakes. I liked how Aden stepped up and helped Rebecca which opened her eyes to see that he has changed over the years. The ending is sweet and Christmas cakes are enjoyed by all.
BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER BY RACHEL J. GOOD
Oh my was this a great and touching story. Lizzie is such a kind hearted person. She may be a bit clumsy but she would do anything for anyone. I love how she found her way to Rebecca’s bakery shop and started working there. I loved how Rebecca was so patient with Lizzie and encouraged her to make her special cupcakes. My heart went out to Lizzie when she took over the care of her aunt. All alone she dies her best to work and care for her aunt.
Christian has his hands full with a young daughter who is in the hospital getting ready for brain surgery. He tries to work and be with her as much as possible. When he meets Lizzie there are a few sparks between them. When they discover they were childhood friends we watch them start to renew that special bond they have. Christian is such a nice man and goes out of his way to take Lizzie to work everyday along with her aunt.
I loved the beautiful story of grace, kindness and helping others. The author writes a story that gave me tears as I witnessed two people who both have big hearts and are always looking out for others. It was a Christmas to remember as Lizzie and Christian grow closer and thank Hod for His blessings.
THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE BY LOREE LOUGH
I have to first thank the author for shining a light on a subject I find very important. There are many people who do not know how to read. The author illustrates how a young teacher is dedicated to helping those who never learned to read. It is never to late to start learning and Tessa shows Asher that reading even as an adult can be achieved.
Tessa and her brother Noah are very protective of each other. Their father is not kind and there has been rumors that he use to beat his wife before she passed away. I like how the author talks about domestic abuse in a gentle way and shows that it can happen to anyone. I love how Noah is always watching after his sister and worries about her being around their father.
Asher begins to slowly have feelings for Tessa and is very upset when he notices a bruise on her face one day. He contains his anger but is determined to be near Tessa as much as possible to keep her from harm. Their relationship grows and I like how gently their feelings were shared by a sweet and innocent kiss. This story may be a trigger for sone with the mention of abuse, but it is important to note that we should not turn our back in those who need help. The ending is very nice and I liked how Tessa found peace and security.
I could smell the baked goods as Rebecca worked at her shop. She has done well for herself and is content. Christmas is drawing near which means it is time for her to start prepping for her famous Christmas Cake. People order the famous cake starting in October just to make sure they get one. I would love to have a taste of that cake as the author describes it so vividly. When Rebecca spots someone from her past she can’t believe her eyes. Aden is in town doing some remodeling work and is excited to see her again. Old memories for Rebecca surface as she remembers that Aden broke her heart.
After twenty-five years Aden is hoping he can be forgiven by Rebecca. The story is a great look at pride as well. Rebecca has always made these special cakes all by herself. She doesn’t allow anyone to help her and takes great pleasure in seeing her cakes all lined up on Christmas Eve to picked up. This year turns out differently and Rebecca learns that it is okay to ask for help. Her cakes will always be special but she has to allow others to help her and share in the enjoyment of those special cakes. I liked how Aden stepped up and helped Rebecca which opened her eyes to see that he has changed over the years. The ending is sweet and Christmas cakes are enjoyed by all.
BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER BY RACHEL J. GOOD
Oh my was this a great and touching story. Lizzie is such a kind hearted person. She may be a bit clumsy but she would do anything for anyone. I love how she found her way to Rebecca’s bakery shop and started working there. I loved how Rebecca was so patient with Lizzie and encouraged her to make her special cupcakes. My heart went out to Lizzie when she took over the care of her aunt. All alone she dies her best to work and care for her aunt.
Christian has his hands full with a young daughter who is in the hospital getting ready for brain surgery. He tries to work and be with her as much as possible. When he meets Lizzie there are a few sparks between them. When they discover they were childhood friends we watch them start to renew that special bond they have. Christian is such a nice man and goes out of his way to take Lizzie to work everyday along with her aunt.
I loved the beautiful story of grace, kindness and helping others. The author writes a story that gave me tears as I witnessed two people who both have big hearts and are always looking out for others. It was a Christmas to remember as Lizzie and Christian grow closer and thank Hod for His blessings.
THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE BY LOREE LOUGH
I have to first thank the author for shining a light on a subject I find very important. There are many people who do not know how to read. The author illustrates how a young teacher is dedicated to helping those who never learned to read. It is never to late to start learning and Tessa shows Asher that reading even as an adult can be achieved.
Tessa and her brother Noah are very protective of each other. Their father is not kind and there has been rumors that he use to beat his wife before she passed away. I like how the author talks about domestic abuse in a gentle way and shows that it can happen to anyone. I love how Noah is always watching after his sister and worries about her being around their father.
Asher begins to slowly have feelings for Tessa and is very upset when he notices a bruise on her face one day. He contains his anger but is determined to be near Tessa as much as possible to keep her from harm. Their relationship grows and I like how gently their feelings were shared by a sweet and innocent kiss. This story may be a trigger for sone with the mention of abuse, but it is important to note that we should not turn our back in those who need help. The ending is very nice and I liked how Tessa found peace and security.
December 23, 2021
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca
I am a big fan of Shelley Shephard Gray’s work and when I found out that she was a contributor to Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop I knew I had to read it! After being separated for many years, Aden and Rebecca are reunited through the circumstances of life. When Aden sees how hard Rebecca works at her shop, Rebecca’s Porch, he offers to help any way he can. Through Aden’s help, Aden and Rebecca’s relationship and the feelings they had for each other are rekindled.
Ms. Gray’s A Christmas Cake for Rebecca is sweet, while predictable at times. The predictableness is easy to overlook, because it is a Christmas story and Ms. Gray’s writing is so good. The description of Rebecca’s famous Christmas cake is mouthwatering. I loved the characters and reading A Christmas Cake for Rebecca.
Best Christmas Present Ever
Rachel J. Good is a new author to me. Ms. Good’s story Best Christmas Present Ever has made me a fan. Best Christmas Present Ever centers a round Christian, a widow taking care of his daughter, Johanna, who has cancer, and Lizzie, a young down-on-her-luck Amish woman who has moved back home to take care of her ailing Aunt. The primary setting for the story is Rebecca’s Porch, just like it was in the previous story, A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. While getting to know one another, Christian and Lizzie realize they were childhood best friends (which actually surprised me a bit).
I really liked Best Christmas Present Ever. Like the story before, it was predictable in some parts (but not the childhood best friend part–at least to me), but the story was sweet and Christmassy enough to overlook it. I enjoyed that the story had included characters from A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. I loved how caring, sweet, and understanding the characters were with one another and genuinely cared for the people around them. I love that Christian and Lizzie did not realize that they had grown up together until halfway through the story–it was a pleasant surprise as the reader.
The Christmas Cupcake
Loree Lough’s The Christmas Cupcake is a sweet story that centers around Asher and Tessa. Tessa is the school teacher for her Amish community and Asher is a furniture builder. Tessa has a rough home life that hardly anyone knows about and Asher has trouble reading and writing. After bumping into one another at Rebecca’s Porch, they start getting to know each other. As Asher does his best to protect Tessa and Tessa teaches Asher to read and write, their friendship and feelings deepen.
In The Christmas Cupcake, real life issues (abuse and illiteracy) are more center stage than the previous stories and Rebecca’s Porch is not a major part of the story like it had been in the previous stories, in my opinion. I appreciated how The Christmas Cupcake dealt with real life issues, in the midst of a seasonal story, and it was still able to have an uplifting ending. I enjoyed reading about Asher and Tessa and am happy with the story’s outcome.
Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop (as a whole):
I really enjoyed Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop as a whole. Each story was a really nice read that I could escape into. I know I said that it was predictable in some parts to me and that is true, but I don’t see that as a bad thing necessarily. When I read a Christmas read, I want to know that everything will be wrapped up in a tidy bow and will have a happy ending. I want to be able to escape into a Christmas read and destress. Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop did that for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads and my blog, Leslie's Library Escape.
I am a big fan of Shelley Shephard Gray’s work and when I found out that she was a contributor to Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop I knew I had to read it! After being separated for many years, Aden and Rebecca are reunited through the circumstances of life. When Aden sees how hard Rebecca works at her shop, Rebecca’s Porch, he offers to help any way he can. Through Aden’s help, Aden and Rebecca’s relationship and the feelings they had for each other are rekindled.
Ms. Gray’s A Christmas Cake for Rebecca is sweet, while predictable at times. The predictableness is easy to overlook, because it is a Christmas story and Ms. Gray’s writing is so good. The description of Rebecca’s famous Christmas cake is mouthwatering. I loved the characters and reading A Christmas Cake for Rebecca.
Best Christmas Present Ever
Rachel J. Good is a new author to me. Ms. Good’s story Best Christmas Present Ever has made me a fan. Best Christmas Present Ever centers a round Christian, a widow taking care of his daughter, Johanna, who has cancer, and Lizzie, a young down-on-her-luck Amish woman who has moved back home to take care of her ailing Aunt. The primary setting for the story is Rebecca’s Porch, just like it was in the previous story, A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. While getting to know one another, Christian and Lizzie realize they were childhood best friends (which actually surprised me a bit).
I really liked Best Christmas Present Ever. Like the story before, it was predictable in some parts (but not the childhood best friend part–at least to me), but the story was sweet and Christmassy enough to overlook it. I enjoyed that the story had included characters from A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. I loved how caring, sweet, and understanding the characters were with one another and genuinely cared for the people around them. I love that Christian and Lizzie did not realize that they had grown up together until halfway through the story–it was a pleasant surprise as the reader.
The Christmas Cupcake
Loree Lough’s The Christmas Cupcake is a sweet story that centers around Asher and Tessa. Tessa is the school teacher for her Amish community and Asher is a furniture builder. Tessa has a rough home life that hardly anyone knows about and Asher has trouble reading and writing. After bumping into one another at Rebecca’s Porch, they start getting to know each other. As Asher does his best to protect Tessa and Tessa teaches Asher to read and write, their friendship and feelings deepen.
In The Christmas Cupcake, real life issues (abuse and illiteracy) are more center stage than the previous stories and Rebecca’s Porch is not a major part of the story like it had been in the previous stories, in my opinion. I appreciated how The Christmas Cupcake dealt with real life issues, in the midst of a seasonal story, and it was still able to have an uplifting ending. I enjoyed reading about Asher and Tessa and am happy with the story’s outcome.
Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop (as a whole):
I really enjoyed Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop as a whole. Each story was a really nice read that I could escape into. I know I said that it was predictable in some parts to me and that is true, but I don’t see that as a bad thing necessarily. When I read a Christmas read, I want to know that everything will be wrapped up in a tidy bow and will have a happy ending. I want to be able to escape into a Christmas read and destress. Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop did that for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads and my blog, Leslie's Library Escape.
January 26, 2022
Three stories, one bake shop = falling in love, Amish-style. As an added bonus, all three authors are among favorites of mine, so there was little doubt I'd enjoy the stories.
A Cake for Rebecca brings her former sweetheart, Aden back to Lancaster after more than 20 years away. Now a widower, he went away and made a name for himself as a carpenter, married, and had a family. Rebecca stayed in Lancaster, and made a name for herself as the best baker in town. Her Christmas cakes are especially renowned. His leaving nearly destroyed her, so how can he still be as compelling to her? Can Aden convince her that he needed to grow up before he could fully commit his heart to anyone, even her? Now that he's ready, can she look past the man who left her to the man who wants her back?
Rachel Good's story, Best Christmas Present Ever, was the longest of the three, and had so much emotion. Lizzie is fired after having one mishap too many in her job as a waitress. She's broken more glassware and dishes than her salary can cover, and unfortunately, her current housing is dependent on being employed in the cafe that just fired her. When she receives word that her great-aunt is succumbing to dementia, she packs up everything and heads for Lancaster. Cleaning the disaster her aunt's house has fallen into is an almost full-time job, but Lizzie needs employment in order to pay her former bosses back. Finding a job in Rebecca's bakery seems heaven sent, until her mishaps start all over. When Christian stops for coffee, her heart goes out to the widowed father whose daughter is hospitalized. When she decorates a cupcake for his daughter, she finds her niche. Can her kind heart help heal a family's grief, and make a place for herself in their hearts?
Loree Lough introduces teacher Tessa and builder Asher. Each has a sensitive secret that is gradually revealed as their relationship progresses. Can they help one another to forgive themselves in order to make room for the love they're meant to share?
Each of these stories was a quick read, and each told of a sweet romance. The same bakeshop features in some way in all three, but the characters don't really overlap from one to the other - except for Rebecca and Asher who appear in all three. These authors did not disappoint with these stories! Once I started the book, I couldn't put it down and finished in about a day and a half. I highly recommend!
A Cake for Rebecca brings her former sweetheart, Aden back to Lancaster after more than 20 years away. Now a widower, he went away and made a name for himself as a carpenter, married, and had a family. Rebecca stayed in Lancaster, and made a name for herself as the best baker in town. Her Christmas cakes are especially renowned. His leaving nearly destroyed her, so how can he still be as compelling to her? Can Aden convince her that he needed to grow up before he could fully commit his heart to anyone, even her? Now that he's ready, can she look past the man who left her to the man who wants her back?
Rachel Good's story, Best Christmas Present Ever, was the longest of the three, and had so much emotion. Lizzie is fired after having one mishap too many in her job as a waitress. She's broken more glassware and dishes than her salary can cover, and unfortunately, her current housing is dependent on being employed in the cafe that just fired her. When she receives word that her great-aunt is succumbing to dementia, she packs up everything and heads for Lancaster. Cleaning the disaster her aunt's house has fallen into is an almost full-time job, but Lizzie needs employment in order to pay her former bosses back. Finding a job in Rebecca's bakery seems heaven sent, until her mishaps start all over. When Christian stops for coffee, her heart goes out to the widowed father whose daughter is hospitalized. When she decorates a cupcake for his daughter, she finds her niche. Can her kind heart help heal a family's grief, and make a place for herself in their hearts?
Loree Lough introduces teacher Tessa and builder Asher. Each has a sensitive secret that is gradually revealed as their relationship progresses. Can they help one another to forgive themselves in order to make room for the love they're meant to share?
Each of these stories was a quick read, and each told of a sweet romance. The same bakeshop features in some way in all three, but the characters don't really overlap from one to the other - except for Rebecca and Asher who appear in all three. These authors did not disappoint with these stories! Once I started the book, I couldn't put it down and finished in about a day and a half. I highly recommend!
January 4, 2022
Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop is a wonderful collection of Christmas novellas centered around Rebecca's Porch, an Amish Bakery. The stories and characters within each of the novellas are connected, but each novella focuses on a different set of characters and their stories. This is a great book to settle in with and unwind from the hectic Christmas season, escaping for a few minutes into another world and being drawn into the lives of the Amish characters.
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca reunites Rebecca and Aden. Aden had moved away to find work, leaving his love Rebecca behind. Aden returned to the town in which he grew up to complete a construction contract. Rebecca and Aden rekindle their relationship as they work together to fill the numerous orders Rebecca has for her much-loved Christmas Cake.
Best Christmas Present Ever finds widower Christian trying to be strong for his young daughter Johanna who is in the hospital for surgery to remove a brain tumor. Lizzie, who has moved home to care for her aging aunt. As Christian and Lizzie interact they discover that Lizzie was the childhood friend whom Christian lost track of when Lizzie and her family moved away. Christian, Lizzie and the folks from Rebecca's Porch help give Johanna the best Christmas present ever!
Lastly, The Christmas Cupcake centers around Tessa and Asher. Tessa and Asher have known each other for a long time, however their friendship grows as Tessa, the local schoolteacher, teaches Asher to read and write. Asher is very worried about Tessa, as she lives at home with her brother and widowed father, who is suspected of being abusive. Where does the cupcake come into the story? Tessa and Asher bump into each other one morning at Rebecca's Porch when Tessa is picking up her monthly birthday cupcakes for her students.
This is a great collection of stories, a great read for Christmas or any time the reader needs to escape. Even though the characters face real life issues - lost love, cancer, abuse and illiteracy - their experiences make them stronger in the end and bring about a happy ending.
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca reunites Rebecca and Aden. Aden had moved away to find work, leaving his love Rebecca behind. Aden returned to the town in which he grew up to complete a construction contract. Rebecca and Aden rekindle their relationship as they work together to fill the numerous orders Rebecca has for her much-loved Christmas Cake.
Best Christmas Present Ever finds widower Christian trying to be strong for his young daughter Johanna who is in the hospital for surgery to remove a brain tumor. Lizzie, who has moved home to care for her aging aunt. As Christian and Lizzie interact they discover that Lizzie was the childhood friend whom Christian lost track of when Lizzie and her family moved away. Christian, Lizzie and the folks from Rebecca's Porch help give Johanna the best Christmas present ever!
Lastly, The Christmas Cupcake centers around Tessa and Asher. Tessa and Asher have known each other for a long time, however their friendship grows as Tessa, the local schoolteacher, teaches Asher to read and write. Asher is very worried about Tessa, as she lives at home with her brother and widowed father, who is suspected of being abusive. Where does the cupcake come into the story? Tessa and Asher bump into each other one morning at Rebecca's Porch when Tessa is picking up her monthly birthday cupcakes for her students.
This is a great collection of stories, a great read for Christmas or any time the reader needs to escape. Even though the characters face real life issues - lost love, cancer, abuse and illiteracy - their experiences make them stronger in the end and bring about a happy ending.
September 29, 2021
f you enjoy Amish fiction, this is a great book for the busy holiday season. All three short stories follow on the same small town, two centered around the local bakery, and have cameo appearance by several characters across the entire book.
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca by Shelley Shepard Gray follows the story of Rebecca and Aiden, two old friends who let love slip through their hands when they were younger. Now in his forties, Aiden returns to town for a construction job and seems to keep crossing paths with Rebecca. Can he find a way to win her heart once more?
Best Christmas Present Every by Rachel J. Good features the story of Lizzie, a young woman forced to move home to take care of a relative. While trying to balance work, caretaking, and life, she meets Christian whose young daughter is going through cancer treatments. But is this not their first meeting?
The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough was my personal favorite. Tessa, the local school teacher, and her brother, Noah, share a family secret. Their father's explosive anger makes home life a challenge. So when a Asher starts to show interest in Tessa, she watches him carefully, determined not to live in an abusive relationship. Will Asher be able to convince her that he's trustworthy?
All three novellas work together beautifully, creating an encouraging book centered around the upcoming holiday season. They are joyful, sweet, and carry a common theme of second chances. This is my favorite type of book for busy seasons as each novella can be read alone or together, and the stories are so full of light and hope. If you enjoy Amish fiction, you'll enjoy this collection.
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca by Shelley Shepard Gray follows the story of Rebecca and Aiden, two old friends who let love slip through their hands when they were younger. Now in his forties, Aiden returns to town for a construction job and seems to keep crossing paths with Rebecca. Can he find a way to win her heart once more?
Best Christmas Present Every by Rachel J. Good features the story of Lizzie, a young woman forced to move home to take care of a relative. While trying to balance work, caretaking, and life, she meets Christian whose young daughter is going through cancer treatments. But is this not their first meeting?
The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough was my personal favorite. Tessa, the local school teacher, and her brother, Noah, share a family secret. Their father's explosive anger makes home life a challenge. So when a Asher starts to show interest in Tessa, she watches him carefully, determined not to live in an abusive relationship. Will Asher be able to convince her that he's trustworthy?
All three novellas work together beautifully, creating an encouraging book centered around the upcoming holiday season. They are joyful, sweet, and carry a common theme of second chances. This is my favorite type of book for busy seasons as each novella can be read alone or together, and the stories are so full of light and hope. If you enjoy Amish fiction, you'll enjoy this collection.
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2021
Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop contains three Amish Christmas tales by Shelley Shepard Gray, Rachel J. Good, and Loree Lough. I enjoyed reading these three novellas that revolve around Rebecca’s Porch, a bakeshop in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. I thought each story was well-written with friendly, relatable characters. I loved the characters in each story with my favorite being Rebecca and Aden in A Christmas Cake for Rebecca. This is a cute story that has friends helping each other in time of need, humor, and a man showing his love. Best Christmas Present Ever by Rachel J. Good is such a sweet story. We get to see that people and animals matter more than making money. It was wonderful to see Lizzie find her place and blossom. The Christmas Cupcake by Loree Lough is a little darker than the other two stories in the beginning. I like how Tess’s brother, Noah aids Asher is wooing Tess. There are many tasty treats mentioned in the three novellas. The delectable descriptions will have your mouth watering. Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop is a collection of stories that is perfect for fans of Amish fiction and those who enjoy wholesome Christmas stories. Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop has three heartwarming tales about a second chance romance, dropped dishes, wearisome walnuts, fretting over finances, a reading worry, Christmas cakes, a frustrating father, and God’s Grace.
July 17, 2021
This is a delightful book!! Get yourself a cup of tea and some cookies to get you in the mood. It has three stories, by three different authors, that have overlapping characters. I love it when I get to know a character and I see them again in another book.
The first novella is “A Christmas Cake for Rebecca” by Shelley Shepherd Gray. Rebecca is a single woman who owns the bake shop where all the action happens. Her former flame moves back to town and Rebecca is trying to bake Christmas cakes for the bakery. This story will get you in the holiday spirit!
“Best Christmas Present Ever” by Tachel J. Goode, is the next story. Lizzie moves to Lancaster to take care of her sick aunt. She gets a job at the bake shop. Christian is a widower with a sick daughter, Johanna. He meets Lizzie at the bakery and they learn to help each other through their challenges.
“The Christmas Cupcake” by Lorre Lough, is the final novella. Tessa is a teacher who buys cupcakes for her class and Noah is a builder who doesn’t read. You will be rooting for them this entire story.
These authors are all amazing!! I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
The first novella is “A Christmas Cake for Rebecca” by Shelley Shepherd Gray. Rebecca is a single woman who owns the bake shop where all the action happens. Her former flame moves back to town and Rebecca is trying to bake Christmas cakes for the bakery. This story will get you in the holiday spirit!
“Best Christmas Present Ever” by Tachel J. Goode, is the next story. Lizzie moves to Lancaster to take care of her sick aunt. She gets a job at the bake shop. Christian is a widower with a sick daughter, Johanna. He meets Lizzie at the bakery and they learn to help each other through their challenges.
“The Christmas Cupcake” by Lorre Lough, is the final novella. Tessa is a teacher who buys cupcakes for her class and Noah is a builder who doesn’t read. You will be rooting for them this entire story.
These authors are all amazing!! I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
October 4, 2021
This book calls for a cozy read by the fire with a hot drink and something sweet!
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca
Rebecca is a hard-working woman who owns the local bakeshop. She is known far and wide for her specially decorated Christmas cakes. When an employer books far more cakes than she can make, Rebecca becomes stressed. How does she complete her orders in time after falling ill?
Best Christmas Present Ever
Lizzie is an empathetic person who is always giving and sharing. She leaves returns to her home town to care for an ailing aunt. She gets a job at Rebecca's bakery where she cares for all her customers, particularly a grieving widower, Christian. Her caring ways win a spot in his heart.
The Christmas Cupcake
Tessa is a schoolteacher who is the daughter of an abusive father. After meeting the Stuery family, she becomes friends with their son Asher. Will she open her heart after being hurt for so many years?
These three authors did an excellent job weaving a story around the same bakery, Rebecca's Porch.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley, but all opinions are my own.
A Christmas Cake for Rebecca
Rebecca is a hard-working woman who owns the local bakeshop. She is known far and wide for her specially decorated Christmas cakes. When an employer books far more cakes than she can make, Rebecca becomes stressed. How does she complete her orders in time after falling ill?
Best Christmas Present Ever
Lizzie is an empathetic person who is always giving and sharing. She leaves returns to her home town to care for an ailing aunt. She gets a job at Rebecca's bakery where she cares for all her customers, particularly a grieving widower, Christian. Her caring ways win a spot in his heart.
The Christmas Cupcake
Tessa is a schoolteacher who is the daughter of an abusive father. After meeting the Stuery family, she becomes friends with their son Asher. Will she open her heart after being hurt for so many years?
These three authors did an excellent job weaving a story around the same bakery, Rebecca's Porch.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley, but all opinions are my own.
November 30, 2022
Chose this book because I wanted a light, Christmassy read, and I enjoy Amish fiction. The first two stories were insta love stories, and pretty impractical, but I did like the characters, as well as the Christian and loving environment created within the bakery. The element of camaraderie and friendship among the women kept me reading the first two stories. I also appreciated how story two and three tied into the first story.
The third story was my favorite and touched on the topic of family violence. It was much more practical, and while it wasn’t very Christmassy, I actually enjoyed it.
I wouldn’t personally consider any of the three stories to be Amish fiction. There was so much wrong with this element of the book. I would have enjoyed it more, insta love and all, did it not have this Amish fiction confusion within the storyline.
If you are a regular reader of Amish fiction, I would skip this book. If you aren’t, and are looking for a clean, heartwarming read about friendship and love, you might enjoy this one!
The third story was my favorite and touched on the topic of family violence. It was much more practical, and while it wasn’t very Christmassy, I actually enjoyed it.
I wouldn’t personally consider any of the three stories to be Amish fiction. There was so much wrong with this element of the book. I would have enjoyed it more, insta love and all, did it not have this Amish fiction confusion within the storyline.
If you are a regular reader of Amish fiction, I would skip this book. If you aren’t, and are looking for a clean, heartwarming read about friendship and love, you might enjoy this one!
October 17, 2021
A Cake for Rebecca
I really enjoyed reading about Rebecca and her bakeshop and her special Christmas cakes. Loved the characters in the book and the story line. Aden was her one and only love and now he has returned. Will they be able to have a second chance.
I think you will enjoy this book
Best Christmas Present Ever
Lizzie worked as a waitress and lived in an apartment above the restaurant that she worked at. Her boss was hard to get along with because Lizzie had problems sometimes. She dropped things, or spilled things and was very soft hearted. Her boss fired her. This meant that she would have to move soon.
Her Aunt's neighbor called Lizzie to tell her that her Aunt was having issues with being forgetful and shouldn't be living alone any longer. So Lizzie moved back to take care of her Aunt. Things started looking up for both of them.
This story draws you in and makes you feel like you are part of the story. Love the characters of this story and can't wait to go back to Rebecca's Porch.
I really enjoyed reading about Rebecca and her bakeshop and her special Christmas cakes. Loved the characters in the book and the story line. Aden was her one and only love and now he has returned. Will they be able to have a second chance.
I think you will enjoy this book
Best Christmas Present Ever
Lizzie worked as a waitress and lived in an apartment above the restaurant that she worked at. Her boss was hard to get along with because Lizzie had problems sometimes. She dropped things, or spilled things and was very soft hearted. Her boss fired her. This meant that she would have to move soon.
Her Aunt's neighbor called Lizzie to tell her that her Aunt was having issues with being forgetful and shouldn't be living alone any longer. So Lizzie moved back to take care of her Aunt. Things started looking up for both of them.
This story draws you in and makes you feel like you are part of the story. Love the characters of this story and can't wait to go back to Rebecca's Porch.
November 21, 2024
I can’t fully enter into the holiday reading spirit until I’ve added an Amish novella collection to my TBR! This one got away from me a few years ago, but I’m catching up now.
Great authors, wonderful stories full of heart and faith and gently festive happily ever afters. Love the special Amish bakery at the heart (pun intended) of each romance. It’s like they’re dousing their batter with love potions. So much fun.
This trio of authors brings a distinctive flare to their stories, but all are tender and sweet (in more ways then one!) From Shelley Shepard Gray’s second chance romance in their forties to Rachel Good’s lonely widower with a heartbreaking challenge to the secrets keeping a wary pair at arm’s length in Loree Lough’s contribution — this collection engages and entertains and leaves a reader with a happy Christmas afterglow.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/11/21/c...
Great authors, wonderful stories full of heart and faith and gently festive happily ever afters. Love the special Amish bakery at the heart (pun intended) of each romance. It’s like they’re dousing their batter with love potions. So much fun.
This trio of authors brings a distinctive flare to their stories, but all are tender and sweet (in more ways then one!) From Shelley Shepard Gray’s second chance romance in their forties to Rachel Good’s lonely widower with a heartbreaking challenge to the secrets keeping a wary pair at arm’s length in Loree Lough’s contribution — this collection engages and entertains and leaves a reader with a happy Christmas afterglow.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/11/21/c...
October 25, 2021
Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop is three delightful stories that take place at or around a bakeshop called Rebecca’s Porch. Written by Shelley Shepard Gray, Rachel J. Good, and Loree Lough, each one will bring a smile to you. In the first, Rebecca is surprised when her first love returns and wants to spend time with her. Aden also helps her in her bakery, where she must make over a hundred Christmas cakes. Can they bake something more together? In the second story, two friends from childhood are reunited at the bakeshop and discover something more between them. And finally, a teacher who enjoys getting her students treats from the bakery discovers more than just cupcakes there! Lots of fun, I enjoyed the stories. I’m a sucker for happy endings! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this opportunity.
October 7, 2021
Christmas at the Amish Bakeshop by Shelly Shepard Gray, Rachel J Gray, and Loree Lough
I love Christmas Books and when you get the chance to read about a bakery on top of that it’s a double dose of excellence!
Each one of these stories has it’s one special charm but what’s great about it is they all intertwine so you get the feeling that it’s one big happy community and family.
Every story has it’s one special characters who are working through their own Christmas troubles and each will in some way use the bake shop as a way to help. I thoroughly loved each and every one of these stories and a can say I wanted cupcakes and a special cake as well. I hope these authors will write another book together.
I love Christmas Books and when you get the chance to read about a bakery on top of that it’s a double dose of excellence!
Each one of these stories has it’s one special charm but what’s great about it is they all intertwine so you get the feeling that it’s one big happy community and family.
Every story has it’s one special characters who are working through their own Christmas troubles and each will in some way use the bake shop as a way to help. I thoroughly loved each and every one of these stories and a can say I wanted cupcakes and a special cake as well. I hope these authors will write another book together.
December 24, 2021
This is a beautiful collection of Christmas-themed stories written by three favorite Amish authors.
These stories are as sweet as the Christmas season itself, and I enjoyed reading each one of them. By the time you finish this book, you’ll wish you could enjoy one of Rebecca’s delicious Christmas cakes or Lizzie’s beautiful cupcakes. Although the characters deal with difficult issues in each of the stories, each one highlights the power of faith in dealing with heartache and tragedy. I loved the characters in each story and how the community rallied around to help in any way they could. If you love reading Amish fiction, or enjoy books with a faith-themed story, you’ll enjoy reading this collection,
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
These stories are as sweet as the Christmas season itself, and I enjoyed reading each one of them. By the time you finish this book, you’ll wish you could enjoy one of Rebecca’s delicious Christmas cakes or Lizzie’s beautiful cupcakes. Although the characters deal with difficult issues in each of the stories, each one highlights the power of faith in dealing with heartache and tragedy. I loved the characters in each story and how the community rallied around to help in any way they could. If you love reading Amish fiction, or enjoy books with a faith-themed story, you’ll enjoy reading this collection,
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
January 28, 2025
This delightful book is filled with delicious treats and wonderful stories! I enjoyed all of the novellas. I only wish that they were longer! 😀
One of my favorite parts in each story involves baked goods. The Christmas cake, the animal cupcakes, and the special treats that were shared.
I can honestly say that I liked all three of the main female characters equally. Rebecca is wonderful! She's a hard worker, a great employer, and creative. Lizzie is compassionate, full of love, and always tries to look on the bright side. Tessa is strong. Her life is difficult, but she is a wonderful and caring teacher and sister.
I enjoy reading all of these authors' books, and I look forward to the next one by any of them!
One of my favorite parts in each story involves baked goods. The Christmas cake, the animal cupcakes, and the special treats that were shared.
I can honestly say that I liked all three of the main female characters equally. Rebecca is wonderful! She's a hard worker, a great employer, and creative. Lizzie is compassionate, full of love, and always tries to look on the bright side. Tessa is strong. Her life is difficult, but she is a wonderful and caring teacher and sister.
I enjoy reading all of these authors' books, and I look forward to the next one by any of them!
September 18, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley, Kensington Books and the authors for this lovey anthology.
Each story is set with the bakeshop that Rebecca owns and runs in Lancaster County as the backdrop. We meet three different ladies – Rebecca, one of her workers and the local teacher. All love Christmas but have aspects of their lives that they would like to be different. The characters are well written, the stories are really lovely and draw you in. I liked the bakeshop as the backdrop and the subsidiary characters that came into it. You got to know the community as well as the main characters.
Would recommend this anthology.
Each story is set with the bakeshop that Rebecca owns and runs in Lancaster County as the backdrop. We meet three different ladies – Rebecca, one of her workers and the local teacher. All love Christmas but have aspects of their lives that they would like to be different. The characters are well written, the stories are really lovely and draw you in. I liked the bakeshop as the backdrop and the subsidiary characters that came into it. You got to know the community as well as the main characters.
Would recommend this anthology.
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