*****5 stars
This is a feel-good book, a sweet romance, and a collection of baking recipes. The story features a baker, Sam, who leaves her family’s Michigan orchard for a job in New York City. Deciding not to take her boss’ demands anymore, she quits and returns home to take a time out and also attend the 100th anniversary party of the orchard and her grandmother’s 75tyh birthday.
Each section of this book includes a recipe that connects with the storyline of that section. There are flashbacks told by the women in her family that show Sam how they’ve created a history and traditions with their baking that’s shared by recipes in a recipe box passed down through the generations.
When it’s time for Sam to decide whether to return to New York and accept a promising baking position or stay at the family orchard, she’s also faced with dealing with her feelings about a promising relationship with Angelo, a man she left behind in New York, who comes to the orchard to visit her.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy family-centered stories. I was surprised to learn that the book was written by a man who used his grandmother’s name as a pen name. Her recipe box inspired the story, and the recipes included are some of hers and family friends.
Ruff Drafts 