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The Amish Baker
A child brings them together…Will their differing Amish beliefs pull them apart?
When his son breaks one of baker Sarah Gingerich’s prized possessions, widower Caleb Brenneman insists the boy make amends by doing odd jobs in her bake shop. A childless widow, Sarah can’t help falling for the boy…or his farmer father. But Caleb is progressive New Order Amish while Sarah holds traditional beliefs. Though they’re worlds apart, are they a perfect match?
When his son breaks one of baker Sarah Gingerich’s prized possessions, widower Caleb Brenneman insists the boy make amends by doing odd jobs in her bake shop. A childless widow, Sarah can’t help falling for the boy…or his farmer father. But Caleb is progressive New Order Amish while Sarah holds traditional beliefs. Though they’re worlds apart, are they a perfect match?
368 pages, Paperback
Published February 19, 2019
49 people are currently reading
1112 people want to read
About the author
Marie E. Bast
11 books175 followersMARIE E. BAST is the Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author of The Amish Baker Rival, The Amish Marriage Bargain and The Amish Baker. The Amish Baker's Rival was a finalist in the 2021 The Carla Contest and The Amish Baker was a 2020 finalist in the Book Buyers Best Contest. The Perfect Client was a first place 2015 contemporary winner of the Ignite the Flame Contest. Her stories whisper words of hope, healing, and forgiveness through complex characters and twisting plots. Her books are sold all over the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland and Australia. She has published short stories and poetry in book compilations to include: Chicken Soup for the Soul.
She holds a B.A., an M.B.A., and an M.A. in General Theology. When she's not writing, she's walking, golfing or gardening. She loves to bake and enjoys her homemade rolls and bread way too much.
She holds a B.A., an M.B.A., and an M.A. in General Theology. When she's not writing, she's walking, golfing or gardening. She loves to bake and enjoys her homemade rolls and bread way too much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 17, 2019
Old Order widowed Amish woman Sarah Gingerich owns and runs a bakery her father left her after his death. Despite the bishop believing it's her duty to the community to remarry she isn't ready, preferring to stay busy in her bakery. She's satisfied with her life the way it is. She meets widower farmer New Order Amish man Caleb Brenneman at her bakery. My heart was captured by the widowers young son, Jacob. He misses his Mamm badly and is looking at Sarah as a substitute and my heart went out to this little scamp. I enjoyed reading about the difference in religious beliefs between the New and Old Order Amish and the differences in their daily lives. I would have to say my least favorite character is Sarah's brother, he did some pretty mean things that I thought were uncalled for. I have heard it said when one door closes another ones opens for us though.
I enjoyed seeing how Sarah and Caleb were able to compromise to and work through their differences.
I look for ward to seeing what this author has in store for us next as I'll be sure to read it!
Published February 19th 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
I enjoyed seeing how Sarah and Caleb were able to compromise to and work through their differences.
I look for ward to seeing what this author has in store for us next as I'll be sure to read it!
Published February 19th 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 6, 2020
This was an interesting story. I have read other Amish based stories; but this one was a little different. The main character Sarah, is a widow and runs her families bakery. Her brother has a woodworking business and leaves Sarah to run the bakery on her own; since their parents are both deceased. I thought this was highly unusual in the Amish community. This community is supposed to be in Iowa. I live in the northeast and we are accustomed to the "Pennsylvania Dutch" Amish communities. I don't really know if there is much difference between them or not.
Sarah meets Caleb when he comes into the bakery and they seem to immediately "hit it off". Sarah's Bishop is trying to get her remarried to another Amish family man; he doesn't like that Caleb is coming around since he is "new order" Amish.
Their relationship is like a roller-coaster with all the ups and downs and mixed messages. I found it a little odd that they talk about trust and honesty; yet neither one of them speaks from the heart to let the other one know their feelings; whether or not they can do anything about it or not.
I like Sarah's story and the changes that throw her life upside-down and inside-out. Caleb on the other hand, I would like to knock some sense into....; but hey, that's just me.
The writing style flows and their are good characters and good character development. I thank the author Marie Bast for putting this out as a goodreads giveaway and appreciate the opportunity to read her work.
Sarah meets Caleb when he comes into the bakery and they seem to immediately "hit it off". Sarah's Bishop is trying to get her remarried to another Amish family man; he doesn't like that Caleb is coming around since he is "new order" Amish.
Their relationship is like a roller-coaster with all the ups and downs and mixed messages. I found it a little odd that they talk about trust and honesty; yet neither one of them speaks from the heart to let the other one know their feelings; whether or not they can do anything about it or not.
I like Sarah's story and the changes that throw her life upside-down and inside-out. Caleb on the other hand, I would like to knock some sense into....; but hey, that's just me.
The writing style flows and their are good characters and good character development. I thank the author Marie Bast for putting this out as a goodreads giveaway and appreciate the opportunity to read her work.
March 25, 2019
The Amish Baker by Marie E. Bast is the first book I’ve read by her. This story is not your typical Amish romance story as the heroine and hero are not from the same Order of Amish. It was interesting to learn some of the differences between Old and New Order Amish. But I fell in love with young Jacob’s actions and openness with Sarah. He was your typical boy for six years old but wiser at times and more helpful. There are unexpected twists and turns for Sarah and her bakery but the surprise action of her brother brought tears, although there is a wonderful ending to this story. I would like to see the lives of these characters carried on in another book.
I was not required to write a review for this book but have shared my own opinion
I was not required to write a review for this book but have shared my own opinion
October 6, 2020
This was actually pretty dramatic, but as usual an Amish love story gets me every time. Sometimes I didn’t think Sarah and Caleb had good chemistry. They always seem to be worrying about what the other would think, but it pays to do what makes you happy.
March 27, 2019
I loved this book!! Great story!! Too short!! 1st time reading this author!!
March 15, 2019
This novel is not your normal Amish romance. Caleb being a New Order and Sarah being Old
Order it makes for some interesting differences. When the sparks fly between these two that becomes a problem they have to work to solve if they are going to a life together. I really enjoyed reading this book did it one evening.
Order it makes for some interesting differences. When the sparks fly between these two that becomes a problem they have to work to solve if they are going to a life together. I really enjoyed reading this book did it one evening.
February 18, 2020
While I have enjoyed most spiritual romances that I’ve read, this Amish story (my first) just felt slow and not very interesting. However I did applaud Sarah (the baker) for asserting herself while still remaining true to her faith. But ultimately I found the writing repetitious and uneven. Unfortunately I don’t have experience with other Amish stories to compare it with, but judging from this one, I’m not sure the genre is for me.
May 26, 2019
The Amish Baker by Marie E. Bast
A child brings them together…
Will their differing Amish beliefs pull them apart?
When his son breaks one of baker Sarah Gingerich’s prized possessions, widower Caleb Brenneman insists the boy make amends by doing odd jobs in her bake shop. A childless widow, Sarah can’t help falling for the boy…or his farmer father. But Caleb is progressive New Order Amish while Sarah holds traditional beliefs. Though they’re worlds apart, are they a perfect match?
This is Sarah Gingerich and Caleb Brenneman's story.
Sarah Gingerich stomped into her Amish Sweet Delights bakery an hour earlier than her usual arrival time of 4:00 a.m. Who could sleep a wink after what Bishop Yoder had said to her yesterday? She slid the dead bolt closed. He had his nerve.
Straightening her shoulders, she shook off the indignant words. Gelassenheit—calm down and let it go.
She scooted to the pantry for flour, mixed the bread dough, tossed it on a floured board and began kneading. After folding the soft mass over, she floured and kneaded again.
After folding the soft mass over, she floured and kneaded again.
As she punched the dough a little harder than necessary, the bishop’s words came rushing back to her. Heat rose from her neck to her ears, burning her now as it had when he had said them. She couldn’t believe that during his preaching on the rewards of being a wife and mother, he had stared straight at her the entire time. Later, he called her aside and mentioned it was time she stopped mourning Samuel and remarried. Why would he say such a thing?
Caleb settled on the seat and watched his sohn mosey toward the buggy. Jacob climbed in and plopped down beside his daed. Caleb shook the reins. “Giddyap, Snowball.”
“Why do we have to go to Kalona, Daed?” His lips set in a pout.
“We are going to drop off some of Mary’s pillow covers, pot holders and boppli blankets at a consignment shop.”
“Why can’t Mary go instead of me?”“She is busy with the housework, cooking, laundry and making things to sell.”
I am looking forward to reading more books by Marie E. Bast.
The Amish Baker by Marie E. Bast is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
A child brings them together…
Will their differing Amish beliefs pull them apart?
When his son breaks one of baker Sarah Gingerich’s prized possessions, widower Caleb Brenneman insists the boy make amends by doing odd jobs in her bake shop. A childless widow, Sarah can’t help falling for the boy…or his farmer father. But Caleb is progressive New Order Amish while Sarah holds traditional beliefs. Though they’re worlds apart, are they a perfect match?
This is Sarah Gingerich and Caleb Brenneman's story.
Sarah Gingerich stomped into her Amish Sweet Delights bakery an hour earlier than her usual arrival time of 4:00 a.m. Who could sleep a wink after what Bishop Yoder had said to her yesterday? She slid the dead bolt closed. He had his nerve.
Straightening her shoulders, she shook off the indignant words. Gelassenheit—calm down and let it go.
She scooted to the pantry for flour, mixed the bread dough, tossed it on a floured board and began kneading. After folding the soft mass over, she floured and kneaded again.
After folding the soft mass over, she floured and kneaded again.
As she punched the dough a little harder than necessary, the bishop’s words came rushing back to her. Heat rose from her neck to her ears, burning her now as it had when he had said them. She couldn’t believe that during his preaching on the rewards of being a wife and mother, he had stared straight at her the entire time. Later, he called her aside and mentioned it was time she stopped mourning Samuel and remarried. Why would he say such a thing?
Caleb settled on the seat and watched his sohn mosey toward the buggy. Jacob climbed in and plopped down beside his daed. Caleb shook the reins. “Giddyap, Snowball.”
“Why do we have to go to Kalona, Daed?” His lips set in a pout.
“We are going to drop off some of Mary’s pillow covers, pot holders and boppli blankets at a consignment shop.”
“Why can’t Mary go instead of me?”“She is busy with the housework, cooking, laundry and making things to sell.”
I am looking forward to reading more books by Marie E. Bast.
The Amish Baker by Marie E. Bast is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
February 18, 2019
The Amish Baker is more than a romance as it contrasts Old and New Order Amish cultures. I enjoyed learning about the differences and similarities. Both put high value on family ties and traditions, and that’s where Sarah and Caleb’s troubles begin, as they try to ignore the romantic sparks but cannot help dreaming of a future together. Meanwhile, Sarah’s bishop shows his determination to marry her off to a widower—any widower, it seems—since it has been three years since her husband died. Her feelings don’t matter, making her feel as though she herself doesn’t matter. Independent and hard-working, she resists in spite of warnings of discipline.
Sweet and easy to read, The Amish Baker earns four stars. One warning: the descriptions of her delicious baking may cause compulsive snacking! It’s worth the risk, though, as Sarah and Caleb bravely work their various roadblocks to love.
Disclaimer: I was given an advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Sweet and easy to read, The Amish Baker earns four stars. One warning: the descriptions of her delicious baking may cause compulsive snacking! It’s worth the risk, though, as Sarah and Caleb bravely work their various roadblocks to love.
Disclaimer: I was given an advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 18, 2019
The Amish Baker is the first book written by Marie E. Bast that I have read. I really enjoyed this story and I hope there will be another book to continue the story. The characters are very likeable and I think they tell the story remarkably. The storyline is fast moving and has a lot going on in it.
I really enjoyed Sarah the most because of everything that was heaped upon her. She had to deal with many strongwilled men but she never gave into them. She held her own. Sarah is an accomplished Amish baker and is on a journey to find out just where she belongs.
I was not given a complimentary 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 Marie E. Bast for writing an amazing story for readers to enjoy.
I really enjoyed Sarah the most because of everything that was heaped upon her. She had to deal with many strongwilled men but she never gave into them. She held her own. Sarah is an accomplished Amish baker and is on a journey to find out just where she belongs.
I was not given a complimentary 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 Marie E. Bast for writing an amazing story for readers to enjoy.
April 3, 2019
Very Good
Love reading the Amish stories, A few years ago my family and I would travel to Lancaster Pennsylvania were there was a large population of Amish. We would purchase fresh vegetables, pastry, and jams. Everything was so delicious. I truly enjoyed this story the heroine was running her family's bakery. Her parents had passed away along with her husband. Her brother had no interest in the shop. One day a young boy came in with his father and accidentally broke one of prized possession. To repay her he helped out in the bakery. During those times Sarah and Caleb the father because close. Caleb's wife had passed and he was raising his two children. There were a few moments that brought me to tears. Sarah's bishop was funny he kept introducing her to men in the community to marry. At times she would try to hide from the bishop. A sweet story of second chance at love.
Love reading the Amish stories, A few years ago my family and I would travel to Lancaster Pennsylvania were there was a large population of Amish. We would purchase fresh vegetables, pastry, and jams. Everything was so delicious. I truly enjoyed this story the heroine was running her family's bakery. Her parents had passed away along with her husband. Her brother had no interest in the shop. One day a young boy came in with his father and accidentally broke one of prized possession. To repay her he helped out in the bakery. During those times Sarah and Caleb the father because close. Caleb's wife had passed and he was raising his two children. There were a few moments that brought me to tears. Sarah's bishop was funny he kept introducing her to men in the community to marry. At times she would try to hide from the bishop. A sweet story of second chance at love.
March 19, 2020
Pros:
- I liked how it showed the difference between Old Order and New Order Amish
- The book came in at a good time for me. It reminded me that I need to put more trust in God
- This was a new author for me and would like to read more of her books
Cons:
- Sarah was going through some really stressful things and it was stressing me out
- I read this during a stressful time in my life so that might have affected my enjoyment of it
- Not everything was explained in the end.
- Got tired of the back and forth between them. Skimmed the last quarter of the book.
- Seriously, how many young widows/widowers can be in one book? There must have been 4 or 5.
- I liked how it showed the difference between Old Order and New Order Amish
- The book came in at a good time for me. It reminded me that I need to put more trust in God
- This was a new author for me and would like to read more of her books
Cons:
- Sarah was going through some really stressful things and it was stressing me out
- I read this during a stressful time in my life so that might have affected my enjoyment of it
- Not everything was explained in the end.
- Got tired of the back and forth between them. Skimmed the last quarter of the book.
- Seriously, how many young widows/widowers can be in one book? There must have been 4 or 5.
November 3, 2025
Sarah is an Amish widow, running the bakery that her late parents established. Caleb Brennaman is an Amish widower with two children when he happens to come into Sarah's bakery. His young son, Jacob, is very drawn to Sarah and the feeling is mutual. The problem: Sarah is Old Order and Caleb is New Order. From there, I hated most of the characters: a bishop who is demanding Sarah sell the business and marry who he chooses for her, a brother who sells the business out from under her for his own gain/ comfort with no thought to what he is doing to his sister, and a town full of gossips and story embellished. To top it off, her brother accuses her of gossiping about him & the new bakery owner when both businesses tank and the brother doesn't realize everyone knew what he did & had no sympathy for him! The ending was very disappointing for me. I kept reading but the end didn't ring true for me after what he told Sarah earlier in the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2019
What a "page turner." I thought about the story even when I wasn't reading it. I was so "honored" to receive an advance read copy of the book, "The Amish Baker." It truly is an inspirational romance with "suspense." I was worried about the outcome of the the protagonist, Sarah, and her Love interests. The story showed that we have to trust GOD even when it seems HE has abandoned us. Lots of heartwarming scenes, doubts, fears, and then trust. Leave things in Goot's hands! HE will never leave or forsake you. I "liebe" the book! An amazing story! Looking forward to more great reads by this author.
March 2, 2019
I so enjoyed reading Marie E Bast’s novel – don’t let the size deter you; it packs a lot of punch! Little Jacob Brenneman unknowingly starts the spark between his father Caleb and the widow Sarah Gingerich. But there are hurdles to overcome, and the author poignantly points out the differences between Old Order and New Order Amish beliefs. Can Sarah leave the bakery she inherited from her father? Who will bake those delicious iced cinnamon rolls? Sarah’s brother Turner as well as Bishop Yoder both add to Sarah’s dilemmas.
This is an entertaining read!
I received this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review.
This is an entertaining read!
I received this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review.
August 28, 2025
This was just not my favorite book I’ve read in the category romance department. But I think this was my first Love Inspired. I’m not very impressed with this book because things were wrapped up too conveniently and it almost had too much of a perfect ending. Our main characters didn’t even discuss their differences in religion, which for the Amish, I would expect a conversation. Especially since she was facing shunning by seeing the guy. And the Bishop…he was an intrusive person but by the end was a big softie. No. Hated that part! Honestly, I don’t recommend this even if you like Amish books. I’m not a huge fan of Amish books, so I won’t be reading more.
March 14, 2019
The Amish Baker by Marie. Bast
This is my first book by this author and it won’t be the last. My favorite character was little Jacob, my heart when out to him. It’s was interesting to see how this author navigated the old and new order Amish beliefs into a fun and moving story. I have to say it always amazes me some of the beliefs that are within the Amish culture that may be hard for us to understand but they work for the Amish. I learn so much with every book I read. Don’t miss the change to read this Love Inspired book you won’t be sorry
This is my first book by this author and it won’t be the last. My favorite character was little Jacob, my heart when out to him. It’s was interesting to see how this author navigated the old and new order Amish beliefs into a fun and moving story. I have to say it always amazes me some of the beliefs that are within the Amish culture that may be hard for us to understand but they work for the Amish. I learn so much with every book I read. Don’t miss the change to read this Love Inspired book you won’t be sorry
January 10, 2019
It was my first Amish read. I just did not care how bossy these men are to their women in the community & how they are expected to marry off. I find that kind of life to be really sad. But I am glad Sarah married for love. That she did not settle for Alvin then later Mary finally accepted her. It was not right of her brother taking the bakery & selling it from under her nose. Though the community sure shunned the new owners & her brother. I am glad I am not amish!
February 28, 2019
this was a goodreads prize book. glad it was the first Amish type of book read, opened up a whole new type of series for me. it also is a learning experience. never knew there were different types old order and new order and their differences. something that should have been so simple two people meeting and falling in love.it becomes complicated by tensions between church and family. yet, God seemed to find a new path for everything to work out.
January 1, 2025
Corny, but in the best Amish-fiction way. Many sentences would have benefited from editing to indicate which character was speaking or thinking the sentiment or melancholy. That was a real qualm for me. Maybe 2.75 stars.
The happy ending was quite a quick one as these Love-inspired tomes generally incorporate. Surprised to see the old order surpass the new; it left several storyline components hanging. A dozen more pages would have been needed to tidy up. Characters do love their coffee. And somebody check this Amish community’s blood sugar. Pastry consumption was at a record high here.
A quick read, one with all the typical Amish tropes poured in and sprinkled on.
The happy ending was quite a quick one as these Love-inspired tomes generally incorporate. Surprised to see the old order surpass the new; it left several storyline components hanging. A dozen more pages would have been needed to tidy up. Characters do love their coffee. And somebody check this Amish community’s blood sugar. Pastry consumption was at a record high here.
A quick read, one with all the typical Amish tropes poured in and sprinkled on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2019
Lovely Amish love story. Loved Sarah Gingerich's character, she is honest and believable. She has lost so much in life and yet goes on. Would love to see the Author write more books with Sarah in them. I won this book from Goodreads and the Author Marie E. Bast, Thank You! Hope to read more by the Author.
February 24, 2019
Sarah is a widow that works at her family bakery. The Bishop is trying to be a matchmaker for her but she wants none of the prospects her keeps bringing around. Sarah has feelings for Caleb from the New Order Amish and a widower. He has feelings for her also but there is conflict with her being Old Order Amish plus his daughter is not over loosing her mother. God shows them the way.
April 19, 2019
A great bakery is a joy to have especially close to where you live. This is a lovely story about an Amish widow that takes good baking to a whole new level. I found myself wishing for a cup of coffee and one of those cinnamon rolls that were so thoroughly enjoyed by Sarah’s customers. A most enjoyable way to spend and afternoon.
February 16, 2019
This is a very well written book and keeps you turning the pages. If you like good clean fiction books grab this one. The way the author writes you feel like you are there. I really enjoyed this book.
December 17, 2019
I love this book. It was easy to identify with Sara and feel what she was going through. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down. I learned more about the Amish community and rules, both old and new order Amish. I keep thinking about the book and the unexpected twists. Great book.
April 24, 2020
Very clean, uplifting romance. I love the glimpses of the Amish community that these books bring. This one taught me the difference between Old and New Order, a difference I would not otherwise have know existed.
May 9, 2021
I’ve read quite a few Love Inspired Amish stories this year, and this is my favorite. I really enjoyed the details of the bakery as well as the love story.
It did, however, seem like everyone it Kalona was a widow/widower!
It did, however, seem like everyone it Kalona was a widow/widower!
January 10, 2019
Loved it, read it in 2 hours. Great book. Cant wait to read more from Marie.
February 7, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book
February 8, 2019
fun quick read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews