Foundation of Love

Clipston (The Jam and Jelly Nook) kicks off the Amish Legacy series with a heartwarming romance. Crystal Glick, a 33-year-old unmarried woman, resides with her brother, Kane, and pregnant sister-in-law, Leona, helping them care for their six children. She longs for love and a family of her own, but prays that caring for her brother’s family will fill her empty heart. Then Duane Bontrager, a widower with three grown sons, comes to work on Kane and Leona’s roof. Duane notices Crystal, and the two hit it off—though her family and friends object to their 14-year age difference (and it initially gives Duane pause, as well, and he imagines the “blessed man” in his 30s who might win her instead). Meanwhile, Duane’s older two sons hate the idea of their father dating anyone (“You’re trying to forget her!” one son shouts, accusing him of clamming up at mention of their dead mother), and his bishop wants him to marry a widow with young children for the “gut of the community.” Duane further worries he may not be able to give Crystal children. To complicate matters even more, Crystal’s ex-boyfriend Owen returns to town eager to win Crystal back. As it happens, only God will be able to show Crystal and Duane which path to take. It’s a tender romance, precisely the kind that Clipston’s fans expect. Agent: Natasha Kern, Natasha Kern Literary. (Feb.)