One Sweet Kiss: An Amish Summer Novella

By Kelly Irvin

Everybody in little Bee County, Texas, can see the obvious: Jacob King and Martha Byler are meant to be together. Everyone, that is, but Martha. Ever since her mother died when Martha was a young girl, she has taken over the role of caregiver to her large family. And reckless Jacob, who has had a little too much fun on his rumspringa, only seems to add to the list of people to manage. But one summer changes everything, and these two may just find a way to meet in the middle and share one sweet kiss.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Release date: Jun 6, 2017
• ISBN: 9780718088484

Kelly Irvin

Kelly Irvin is a bestselling, award-winning author of over thirty novels and stories. A retired public relations professional, Kelly lives with her husband, Tim, in San Antonio. They have two children, four grandchildren, and two ornery cats. Visit her online at KellyIrvin.com; Instagram: @kelly_irvin; Facebook: @Kelly.Irvin.Author; Twitter: @Kelly_S_Irvin.

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COPYRIGHT

One Sweet Kiss

© 2017 by Elizabeth Wiseman Mackey

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other—except for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Published in Nashville, Tennessee, by Thomas Nelson. Thomas Nelson is a registered trademark of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc.

Thomas Nelson titles may be purchased in bulk for educational, business, fund-raising, or sales promotional use. For information, please e-mail [e-mail].

Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Publisher’s Note: This novel is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. All characters are fictional, and any similarity to people living or dead is purely coincidental.

Epub Edition April 2017 ISBN 9780718088484

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

CIP data available upon request.

Printed in the United States of America

17 18 19 20 21 LSC 5 4 3 2 1

CONTENTS

Copyright

Glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch Words

Featured Bee County Amish Families

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Epilogue

Discussion Questions

An Excerpt from A Reunion in Pinecraft

Prologue

Chapter 1

Other Novels by Kelly Irvin

About the Author

Amish Living Ad

To my son Nicholas, who grew up when

I wasn’t looking. Love always.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths.

PROVERBS 3:5–6 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,

And whose hope is the LORD.

For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,

Which spreads out its roots by the river,

And will not fear when heat comes;

But its leaf will be green,

And will not be anxious in the year of drought,

Nor will cease from yielding fruit.

JEREMIAH 17:7–8 (NKJV)

GLOSSARY OF PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH WORDS

*THE GERMAN DIALECT SPOKEN BY THE AMISH IS NOT A written language and varies depending on the location and origin of the settlement. These spellings are approximations. Most Amish children learn English after they start school. They also learn High German, which is used in their Sunday services.

ach—oh

aenti—aunt

appeditlich—delicious

bedauerlich—sad

bopli—baby

bruder—brother

bruders—brothers

bu—boy

buwe—boys

daadi—grandpa

daadihaus/dawdy haus—grandparents’ house

daed—father

danki/danke—thank you

dat—dad

dochder—daughter

Englischer—English or non-Amish

fraa—wife

freind—friends

freinden—friends

froh—happy

gern gschehne—you’re welcome

Gmay—church district, community

Gott—God

gut—good

haus—house

Ich liebe dich—I love you

jah—yes

kaffi—coffee

kapp—prayer covering, cap, woman’s head covering

kind—child

kinner—children

lieb—love

liewe—love, a term of endearment

maedel—girl, young woman

mamm—mom

mammi—grandma

mann—husband

mei—my

mudder—mother

narrisch—crazy

nee—no

onkel—uncle

rumspringa—period of running around

schee—pretty

schweschder—sister

suh—son

schweschder—sister

sohn—son

Was iss letz?—What’s wrong?

wunderbaar—wonderful

ya—yes

FEATURED BEE COUNTY AMISH FAMILIES

MORDECAI AND ABIGAIL KING

Caleb

Hazel

Esther

Samuel

Jacob

ABRAM AND THERESA KING

DEBORAH AND PHINEAS KING

Timothy

Melinda

TOBIAS AND REBEKAH BYLER

Matthew

LEILA AND JESSE GLICK

Grace

Emmanuel

LEROY AND NAOMI GLICK

Adam

Jesse

Joseph

Simon

Sally

Mary

Elizabeth

AARON AND JOLENE SHROCK

Ethan

Seth

Amanda

Molly

William

WILL AND ISABELLA (SHROCK) GLICK

Jason

Katherine

LEVI AND SUSAN (KING) BYLER

David

Martha

Milo

Rueben

Micah

Ida

Nyla

Liam

Henry

CHAPTER 1

THE LAST NOTE DIED AWAY. SMILING TO HERSELF, MARTHA Byler opened her eyes. She always closed them during the German rendition of How Great Thou Art, enjoying the sound of her friends’ voices lifted in praise. Still, her eyelids grew heavy. The temptation to drift off to sleep during the singings mounted as the stifling south Texas heat in Bishop Jeremiah’s front room warmed her cheeks. On Sundays, she paid the price for rising early to prepare breakfast for her family before church, helping with the meal after the service, and then spending the afternoon playing volleyball and tag with the little ones. She was worn out by the time the singings started. She wiggled on the hard pine stool. Surely, the ache of her bony behind would keep her awake. Still, she wouldn’t miss this special time for anything. The sweet songs of praise filled a spot in her heart like nothing else could.

Jacob’s staring at you. Vesta Hostetler elbowed Martha in the ribs. Her loud whisper carried to the other girls crowded on a bench. They giggled. Vesta leaned closer. When will you let him off the hook? He’s sorry. You know he is.

Martha hazarded a quick glance at Jacob King, lounging between his friends who were busy whispering and horsing around instead of singing. Sure enough, he studied her with that same hurt, puppy-dog look he’d been giving her since that last Saturday night when he’d failed to show up at her farm as promised. With his unruly black hair peeking out from his straw hat, blue-green eyes made more blue than green by the blue of his shirt, dimpled cheeks, and rueful expression, he reminded her of a scholar called to the front of the room after misbehaving in school.

She didn’t need to take care of another child. She had six of those at home—six younger brothers and sisters who looked to her every day as an example of what to do next in a home that had lacked a mother for nearly ten years. He’s just sorry I’m mad. She fixed her gaze on the hymnal with its yellowed pages and crumbling spine. Not that he can’t be trusted to do what he says he’ll do.

"But he is easy on the eyes. Vesta took the pitcher of water from her sister Rachel and helped herself to a drink before passing it to Martha. And a hard worker. It’s not like we have a bunch of choices in this little Gmay."

The sweet, lukewarm water soothed Martha’s throat, parched from the heat and from singing for nearly two hours—first the slower German songs and then the old English hymns. She took another sip and passed the pitcher. She wasn’t looking for choices. Her family needed her. It was obvious Jacob did not. I don’t have time for courting right now.

"With your daed remarried, you don’t have to take care of everything yourself anymore. The start of another song didn’t keep Vesta from pestering her. Her friend made a habit of reminding Martha of these things. You’re not the mudder anymore."

Inhaling the scent of boy sweat mingled with the aroma of baking cookies, Martha pretended to be engrossed in the song. Susan was a sweet woman who made Daed happy. The baby made them happy too. She was happy for them. She really was. So why did tears make her throat tight and her eyes burn? She bowed her head and focused on the words of the next song, Amazing Grace.

It ended far too soon. She took a

Reviews for One Sweet Kiss

[cecilywolfe · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

These stories are sweet and romantic, but also deal with some important issues the characters face as they deal with relationships and adulthood. Growing up is hard for anyone, but these stories focus on misunderstandings, trust, self-esteem, and responsibility, and how the characters manage to work through their issues to result in the happy endings we have all come to know and love from these fine authors.

These stories are the perfect length for a break from reality that doesn't leave you hanging. They are encouraging and faith-filled, guaranteed to uplift and hearten.

[jt6 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was a very interesting look at the culture of

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Reunion in Pinecraft by Shelley Shepard GrayThis short story brings to mind a mistake, which it was, and what to do about it. The letters from the individual you fell in love with does not match the person you thought they were from. What a great concept, and all through the read you wonder who will end up with whom or will anyone?Loved being back in Pinecraft Florida and our favorite Inn, and how I’ve missed being here. I loved that we are brought back and updated on life here.Summer Storms by Amy ClipstonI could see both parties of this couple making mistakes that are about to come back to haunt them. Arianna has loved Jesse almost her whole life, and now they are not even allowed to be together.Quick judgment on the part of all, and a relationship is thrown away, fictional yes, but the author has shown us that this can really happen.Will this couple be able to over come all that has happened to them, or will they each have to travel down a different road?Lakeside Love by Kathleen FullerEsther seems to think of herself as the ugly duckling in the family, her sister Sarah seems to be the star and makes men’s heads turn, and she is the reserved quiet sister, always taking the back seat.I loved how the author has presented a blooming flower in the name of Esther, she wears her heart on her shoulder, but the one she wears it for doesn’t seem to be able to see beyond Sarah.Will the two you feel should be together overcome all and end up as one, or will the new comer in the form of an Englisher end up with one of these sisters. I loved this story.One Sweet Kiss by Kelly IrvinWe are back with our friends in Bee Country, and the author has made these families feel so real, they could be living next door.Jacob and Martha are meant to be together, but insecurities it seems are keeping them apart. I loved the heart of Jacob, he is a man who seems to live his faith, but Martha sees it differently.Will these two be able to find happiness, or will others succeed in tearing them apart?I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

[lcjohnson1988_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Title: An Amish SummerAuthor: Shelley Shephard Gray, Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Kelley IrvinPages: 400Year: 2017Publisher: Thomas NelsonMy rating 4 out of 5 stars.An Amish Summer is a collection of four novellas written by some of my favorite authors. Each story is its own individual story. The titles of the novellas are A Reunion in Pinecraft, Summer Storms, Lakeside Love, and One Sweet Kiss.The reunion is where four Amish young people go to Pinecraft on vacation after originally meeting at a wedding six months prior in Pinecraft. The neat twist in the story is that Sherry and Graham’s idea of a reunion might come with a huge surprise for the whole group! The second tale is about Arianna’s courting with Jesse, but her brother Tobias’ action may just cost her the future for which she has been preparing. In the third story, two sisters, Esther and Sarah, are in turmoil with each other over a young man who has been working for their father. In the last novella, Jacob and Martha have been best friends for ages, but because of Jacob’s recent choices their future happiness may now be no longer!I enjoyed each novella by the authors. There are a couple of the stories I could understand the characters better having read the novels. The last novella written by Kelly Irvin was unfamiliar to me so it took me a little bit to get into what was occurring in the book. I love collections of novellas as they allow me time to read a story and then put the book down when having to attend to life. Then, I can easily pick up the book right where I left off and enjoy the next story. The four novellas are a great read while on vacation or at the beach! May you have fun reading them as much as I and share them with someone who loves to read!Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[lanehillhouse · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Sunday, June 18, 2017An Amish Summer: Four Novellas by Shelley Shepard Gray, Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Kelly Irvin, © 2017These four stories are so fun! You will want to get a copy to read and you may discover new authors; definitely a new thread of adventure!In the first story, what would you suggest to a young man who met two sisters at a gathering, but while addressing the name on the envelope and in the salutation ... he was envisioning the one he thought was receiving his letters, and instead was "pouring out his heart" to the other sister? Oh, my. Setting up a time and place to meet in person will be a surprise to reckon with!Shelley Shepard Gray's ~ A Reunion in PinecraftAmy Clipston follows with her story, Summer Storms. How can the actions of one have such far reaching tentacles that close off and smother the plans held dear by others? You may discover that there might be a reason seen that hampers and smolders an undercurrent. Integrity opens the way to understanding, as Jesse Zook seeks to help his friend Tobias's family on their farm during his absence. Our actions do affect those around us ~ for good to reach hearts!Lakeside Love by Kathleen Fuller reveals one sister feeling she has lived in the shadow of her younger sister. Could her suspicion and hurt hide a personality wanting to come alive? To have a shadow there must be a light! The sisters find surprising outlooks when they finally speak their hearts to each other. I liked how their family was inclusive of others.Welcome back to Bee County, Texas. Reading Kelly Irvin's previous series, you will want to catch up on the happenings in this small community. Who will be most surprised by One Sweet Kiss?You are known by the company you keep. How far can you go to be believed? As Jacob King endeavors to help his friend, will his assistance continue to be misunderstood?There is a glossary of Pennsylvania Dutch words in the front and Discussion Questions after each novella. Fun to read alone or sharing with your book club. I liked all of these stories and would be difficult to pick just one as a favorite! The theme is near with discovery of each other in a new way. Communication is key to the development of the stories. Words left to the imagination fester when not revealed and exposed to truth. These authors have strongly portrayed love in its greatest form ~ another before yourself will harvest rich J*O*Ys. For the seeker and the sought, love blossoms when a friend takes the risk to be truthful rather than sparing feelings that are only a cover up emotion. Blessings in disguise bring happiness to all when following in the Lord's path. Titles of other novels and novellas by the authors are listed so you can continue on reading their stories you are sure to enjoy.***Thank you authors and to BookLook Bloggers for supplying a copy to me. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An Amish Summer is a collection of four novellas by Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin and Shelley Shepard Gray. A Reunion in Pinecraft by Shelley Shepard Gray takes readers to Pinecraft, Florida where Graham Holland and Sherry Kramer have agreed to meet. The two have been corresponding for six months after meeting at a wedding in Shipshewana. Sherry is joined by her sister, Sharon and their friends, Vera and Carla. Upon arrival Graham realizes he has made a mistake. Graham has been writing to the wrong sister. He met both sisters at the wedding very briefly, but one made a bigger impression (he just got their names mixed up). How does Graham tell Sherry about his error? He decides to keep it a secret for the time being (not a good idea). During the vacation, Graham spends time with both sisters, and he ends up more confused. When Graham finally figures out his feelings, Sherry discovers his secret (about the mix-up). How will this story end?Summer Storms by Amy Clipston is set in Maryland at Cascade Lake. Arianna Smucker is looking forward to her wedding to Jesse Zook in November. But then Jesse tries to help Tobias, his best friend and Arianna’s brother. Jesse and Tobias have a buggy accident that lands Jesse in trouble with Marvin Smucker, Arianna’s father. He calls of Jesse and Arianna’s engagement. Can Jesse repair the damage and get back in Marvin and Arianna’s good graces? Will there be a wedding for this couple in November?Kathleen Fuller contributed Lakeside Love. Esther Coblentz lives on Coblentz Farm with her parents, brother and sister. Esther has liked Judah King for years, but Judah only has eyes for her pretty sister, Sarah. Rhett Davidson, an Englischer and college student, is staying with the family for a month. Esther makes friends with Rhett as she introduces him to Amish life. Judah starts to notice Esther in a different light and it confuses him. Is there a chance for Esther and Judah?One Sweet Kiss by Kelly Irvin takes readers back to Bee County, Texas. Martha Byler is attracted to Jacob King, but he has yet to put his rumspringa behind him. One night Jacob is taking Martha home when they are stopped by a very drunk Dwayne. Dwayne wishes to go alligator hunting in the dark and out of season. Jacob cannot leave Dwayne to his own devices and assists him much to Martha’s dismay. Martha helped raise her younger siblings for the last ten years, and she wants a responsible person for her partner. Over the summer, Martha spends more time with Jacob and starts noticing a change within him. There just might be a future for Jacob and Martha.An Amish Summer contains four well-written and engaging stories. I liked the characters and the different settings. All the stories have the familiar theme of love and enjoying the summer months. Each story has a different moral or life lesson which include forgiveness, faith, power of prayer, trust, commitment, confidence in yourself, and responsibility. I thought each novella was just the right length. I found the stories to be uplifting, and I was left with a good feeling when I finished this book. I give An Amish Summer 5 out of 5 stars. My favorite story was A Reunion in Pinecraft. It had a lighter feeling to it and it was nice to revisit the Orange Blossom Inn in Pinecraft (The Pinecraft Brides series). One Sweet Kiss had a slower pace than the other novellas, but it was nice to catch up with characters from The Amish of Bee County series. The stories can be purchased separately or in one volume. An Amish Summer contains charming, tender stories that will appeal to your romantic side.