Aden Helmuth has an epiphany following a near death experience. He and his friend Jamal Drake plunge into a river to avoid hitting an elk. Only by the grace of God are they spared as a voice clearly tells Aden, "choose the good part -- open the door". After nearly giving up, this gives Aden the power to escape, saving his friend and his enormous dog, Pilot. A change of venue is in order, therefore Aden decides to leave Ohio and stay with his grandparents for a fresh start.

Felty and Annie Helmuth are Amish living in Bonduel, Wisconsin at Huckleberry Hill and thrilled that their grandson, Aden, has decided to come live with them and help at their farm. Much speculation and bad rumors accompany the young man who admits being in jail 3 times. What no one is aware of is that he is an environmentalist and strives to uphold everything nature provides, even claiming to be a vegetarian. Preventing animal cruelty has been the source for much of his misunderstood notoriety.

Annie is a natural match maker, already choosing a bride for Aden. Lily Eicher is a good Amish girl who religiously follows her father's dictates and is afraid to take any type of chance. Shrugging off his grandmother's efforts, Aden surprisingly finds himself totally under Lily's spell. A relationship begins to develop but Lily's father already has his sights set on the "perfect" Amish man for his daughter. Lily gets involved in a "scheme" and her father convinces her Aden is misleading her. After her father convinces her to marry Tyler Yoder, the good steady one, her heart keeps telling her something else. Lily is coerced into settling for a marriage where, hopefully, love will eventually follow and to give up what she truly knows is love.

I have not had the pleasure of reading any of Jennifer Beckstrand's work before, but was completely impressed with her knowledge of the Amish community and the plot she weaves in this sometimes misunderstood religion. I found Huckleberry Summer so interesting that it was nearly impossible for me to put it down before the last page. The characters in this book are most delightful and exceptionally interesting. I would certainly enjoy reading more of this genre from this author.

Book Summary

With one of their grandchildren happily married, Anna and Felty Helmuth are ready for their next matchmaking success. Because there's nothing more rewarding than sparking unexpected love--and putting Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin, on the map for romance. . .

Cautious to a fault, Lily Eicher strives to live up to her dat's high standards. She's certainly not the kind of proper Amish girl who would make time for someone as impetuous as the Helmuths' grandson, Aden--even if his lively spirit and caring ways are showing her just how wonderful following her heart can be. . .

Recklessly doing the right thing got Aden into big trouble. A fresh start at his grandparents' is just what he needs. And shy, pretty Lily is turning his world upside down and making him want to prove he can do good within the rules. But now both must find enough faith and understanding to risk pursuing their dreams--together. . .

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