A chocolate mill opened in Boston in the late 1700s, setting the stage for New England’s enduring love affair with sweets. Over the following centuries, the region has become home to a variety of confections. Massachusetts gave us candy classics like Necco Wafers and Junior Mints. Connecticut claims lollipops and Almond Joy. New Hampshire boasts the world’s longest candy counter and Maine puts a twist on its doughnuts and chocolates by blending in a touch of potato. Rhode Islanders sip ice cream shakes called cabinets, while Vermonters prefer smooth maple creemees. Susan Mara Bregman explores these sugary legacies, uncovering the stories behind the treats that sweetened New England’s culinary landscape. So, grab a bag of "penny" candy and sit down for a read.