****4 stars
I loved the Bake Off, which didn't surprise me as I haven't read a Beth Kendrick book I haven't loved. Beth Kendrick's books are always easy comforting reads that you find you get into and never realize how much time has passed when you look up to the clock. My daughter almost missed the bus this morning because I had my head in the kindle :) The Bake Off is about siblings and family. I'm always hunting for a book that has a romance of some sort in it, usually more forefront with friendship and family second, although Bake Off had a bit of romance it wasn't the main plot of the book, but I still found myself absorbed until it ended. My only complaint is I have to wait for her next book ;)
Book Jacket summary:
Suburban soccer mom Amy has always wanted to stand out from the crowd. Former child prodigy Linnie just wants to fit in. The two sisters have been estranged for years, but thanks to a series of personal crises and their wily grandmother, they've teamed up to enter a national bake-off in the hopes of winning some serious cash. Armed with the top-secret recipe for Grammy's apple pie, they should be unstoppable. Sure, neither one of them has ever baked anything more complicated than brownie mix, but it's just pie-how hard could it be?
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Fools Rush In by Kristan Higgins
*** 3 stars
I had previously read "Just One of the Guys" and immediately downloaded this book. I liked this book, but wasn't pulled into the plot as much. I just didn't feel the suspense or want to keep going that I felt with her previous book to see what would happen. I do look forward to reading others by this author as "Just One of the Guys" made that great an impression and this book was enjoyable.
Book Jacket Summary:
Millie Barnes is this close to finally achieving her perfect life . . .
Rewarding job as a local doctor on Cape Cod? Check. Cute cottage of her very own? Check. Adorable puppy suitable for walks past attractive locals? Check! All she needs is for golden boy and former crush Joe Carpenter to notice her, and Millie will be set.
But perfection isn't as easy as it looks -- especially when Sam Nickerson, the town sheriff, is so distracting. Sure, he needs a friend after being dumped by Millie's fortune-hunting sister, but does she really need to enjoy his company that much? He is definitely not part of her master plan. But maybe it's time for Millie to start a new list . . . --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
I had previously read "Just One of the Guys" and immediately downloaded this book. I liked this book, but wasn't pulled into the plot as much. I just didn't feel the suspense or want to keep going that I felt with her previous book to see what would happen. I do look forward to reading others by this author as "Just One of the Guys" made that great an impression and this book was enjoyable.
Book Jacket Summary:
Millie Barnes is this close to finally achieving her perfect life . . .
Rewarding job as a local doctor on Cape Cod? Check. Cute cottage of her very own? Check. Adorable puppy suitable for walks past attractive locals? Check! All she needs is for golden boy and former crush Joe Carpenter to notice her, and Millie will be set.
But perfection isn't as easy as it looks -- especially when Sam Nickerson, the town sheriff, is so distracting. Sure, he needs a friend after being dumped by Millie's fortune-hunting sister, but does she really need to enjoy his company that much? He is definitely not part of her master plan. But maybe it's time for Millie to start a new list . . . --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Monday, May 23, 2011
There Goes the Bride: This girl is out of here.. by Holly McQueen
****4 stars
I really liked the way this book was done. Although the story is about Polly each chapter is written from Grace's (Polly's best friend) and Bella (Polly's sister), while also telling what is going on with their lives and why they are spending so much energy on Polly and trying to avoid the things that are going on in their lives. I really liked the book and it had a suspenseful feel throughout. I felt this book went a bit deeper than the average chick lit and found it fast paced. This was my first book my McQueen and now I am looking forward to reading some of her others.
Book Jacket Summary:
Polly Atkins is getting married.
And her older sister Bella couldn’t be more excited. Not only will Polly be home after five years in New York, but she’s coming back to marry the most perfect man on the planet, Dev. Dresses, cake, first dance … Bella’s looking forward to getting stuck into the arrangements.
Polly's best friend Grace is just as excited. She’s can’t wait to walk down the aisle behind her childhood ally, especially as the stylish Polly wouldn’t dream of dressing her bridesmaids in anything but the best, which will make a welcome change to the ‘mum-wear’ she’s adopted since her second child was born.
The only person who doesn’t seem to be bursting with enthusiasm is Polly. Which is why, before things can get any more chaotic, she calls the whole thing off. And there’s no way she’s going to tell them why. Some secrets are best kept hidden.
But she’s reckoned without Grace and Bella, who are determined to get Polly and Dev back together if it's the last thing they do. After all, solving someone else’s problems has got to be better than dealing with their own …?
I really liked the way this book was done. Although the story is about Polly each chapter is written from Grace's (Polly's best friend) and Bella (Polly's sister), while also telling what is going on with their lives and why they are spending so much energy on Polly and trying to avoid the things that are going on in their lives. I really liked the book and it had a suspenseful feel throughout. I felt this book went a bit deeper than the average chick lit and found it fast paced. This was my first book my McQueen and now I am looking forward to reading some of her others.
Book Jacket Summary:
Polly Atkins is getting married.
And her older sister Bella couldn’t be more excited. Not only will Polly be home after five years in New York, but she’s coming back to marry the most perfect man on the planet, Dev. Dresses, cake, first dance … Bella’s looking forward to getting stuck into the arrangements.
Polly's best friend Grace is just as excited. She’s can’t wait to walk down the aisle behind her childhood ally, especially as the stylish Polly wouldn’t dream of dressing her bridesmaids in anything but the best, which will make a welcome change to the ‘mum-wear’ she’s adopted since her second child was born.
The only person who doesn’t seem to be bursting with enthusiasm is Polly. Which is why, before things can get any more chaotic, she calls the whole thing off. And there’s no way she’s going to tell them why. Some secrets are best kept hidden.
But she’s reckoned without Grace and Bella, who are determined to get Polly and Dev back together if it's the last thing they do. After all, solving someone else’s problems has got to be better than dealing with their own …?
Ellie Andrews Has Second Thoughts by Ruth Saberton
*****5 stars
If I could give this book more stars I would. I absolutely loved it! It had the most interesting likable characters. The book begins on Ellie's wedding day but we aren't sure who she is marrying. She then settles in and begins to look back at the last year and all that she has been through, all the while you are wondering who is the man that she is getting ready to marry and will she go through with it. I loved the way the book jumped around and kept you on your toes and you will definitely find yourself stiff-ling a giggle if not all out laughing. I truly thought Ellie was marvelous! Definitely one to add to my permanent library. Keep them coming Ruth. If you haven't read a book by Ruth Saberton you will also want to catch "Katy Carter wants a hero", another of my favorites.
Book Jacket Summary:
Ellie Andrews is finally getting married. Or she will be if she drinks enough champagne to pluck up the courage for her trip down the aisle. The problem is that after months spent bickering over menus and table placements, Ellie's never felt more distant from the man she's supposed to be spending the rest of her life with. As last minute nerves take hold, a night of soul-searching sees Ellie reflecting back on old flames in a bid to reassure herself she's making the right decision. There's Rupert - adoring but dull; Jay - the teenage crush; Marcus - sexy but toxic; and Xander - a true friend. But as the sun rises and the ceremony looms ever closer, Ellie is still unsure if she's doing the right thing. Then an unexpected encounter turns her world upside down. Should she take a chance? Or should she stick with the choices she's made? As Ellie makes her way to the church, only one question remains: who will be waiting for her at the altar?
If I could give this book more stars I would. I absolutely loved it! It had the most interesting likable characters. The book begins on Ellie's wedding day but we aren't sure who she is marrying. She then settles in and begins to look back at the last year and all that she has been through, all the while you are wondering who is the man that she is getting ready to marry and will she go through with it. I loved the way the book jumped around and kept you on your toes and you will definitely find yourself stiff-ling a giggle if not all out laughing. I truly thought Ellie was marvelous! Definitely one to add to my permanent library. Keep them coming Ruth. If you haven't read a book by Ruth Saberton you will also want to catch "Katy Carter wants a hero", another of my favorites.
Book Jacket Summary:
Ellie Andrews is finally getting married. Or she will be if she drinks enough champagne to pluck up the courage for her trip down the aisle. The problem is that after months spent bickering over menus and table placements, Ellie's never felt more distant from the man she's supposed to be spending the rest of her life with. As last minute nerves take hold, a night of soul-searching sees Ellie reflecting back on old flames in a bid to reassure herself she's making the right decision. There's Rupert - adoring but dull; Jay - the teenage crush; Marcus - sexy but toxic; and Xander - a true friend. But as the sun rises and the ceremony looms ever closer, Ellie is still unsure if she's doing the right thing. Then an unexpected encounter turns her world upside down. Should she take a chance? Or should she stick with the choices she's made? As Ellie makes her way to the church, only one question remains: who will be waiting for her at the altar?
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Just on of the Guys by Kristan Higgins
*****5 stars
This is my first romance by Kristin Higgins and I loved it. There were multiple side stories of family members and friends that kept the paced going quick. I really liked the characters and found that I was pulled in almost immediately. I am now a big fan and hope that her other books, that I have just downloaded on my kindle are as good. :)
Book Jacket Summary:
Being one of the guys isn't all it's cracked up to be…
So when journalist Chastity O'Neill returns to her hometown, she decides it's time to start working on some of those feminine wiles. Two tiny problems: #1—she's five feet eleven inches of rock-solid girl power, and #2—she's cursed with four alpha male older brothers.
While doing a story on local heroes, she meets a hunky doctor and things start to look up. Now there's only one problem: Trevor Meade, her first love and the one man she's never quite gotten over—although he seems to have gotten over her just fine.
Yet the more time she spends with Dr. Perfect, the better Trevor looks. But even with the in-your-face competition, the irresistible Trevor just can't seem to see Chastity as anything more than just one of the guys.…
This is my first romance by Kristin Higgins and I loved it. There were multiple side stories of family members and friends that kept the paced going quick. I really liked the characters and found that I was pulled in almost immediately. I am now a big fan and hope that her other books, that I have just downloaded on my kindle are as good. :)
Book Jacket Summary:
Being one of the guys isn't all it's cracked up to be…
So when journalist Chastity O'Neill returns to her hometown, she decides it's time to start working on some of those feminine wiles. Two tiny problems: #1—she's five feet eleven inches of rock-solid girl power, and #2—she's cursed with four alpha male older brothers.
While doing a story on local heroes, she meets a hunky doctor and things start to look up. Now there's only one problem: Trevor Meade, her first love and the one man she's never quite gotten over—although he seems to have gotten over her just fine.
Yet the more time she spends with Dr. Perfect, the better Trevor looks. But even with the in-your-face competition, the irresistible Trevor just can't seem to see Chastity as anything more than just one of the guys.…
Thursday, May 12, 2011
The Cinderella Plan by Heather Webber
****4 stars
I bought this for my kindle at a great price $2.99 and feel it was worth every penny and more. It is a contemporary romance, and I love a good romance. I was instantly pulled in by all the likable characters and the hometown feel. My only complaint would be that it ended. I will be looking to see more reads by Heather Webber as I really enjoyed this book.
Book Jacket Summary:
Three years ago, Prince Charming left town without his princess. Now he’s back to win her heart...if she’ll let him.
Big city lawyer Brady James has concocted The Cinderella Plan to win back the love of small-town librarian Hannah Spenser. Can they both overcome inner demons in time to see that beauty and worth come from deep within? Because it’s only then that they’ll find the happily-ever-after they’ve both dreamed about.
I bought this for my kindle at a great price $2.99 and feel it was worth every penny and more. It is a contemporary romance, and I love a good romance. I was instantly pulled in by all the likable characters and the hometown feel. My only complaint would be that it ended. I will be looking to see more reads by Heather Webber as I really enjoyed this book.
Book Jacket Summary:
Three years ago, Prince Charming left town without his princess. Now he’s back to win her heart...if she’ll let him.
Big city lawyer Brady James has concocted The Cinderella Plan to win back the love of small-town librarian Hannah Spenser. Can they both overcome inner demons in time to see that beauty and worth come from deep within? Because it’s only then that they’ll find the happily-ever-after they’ve both dreamed about.
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Cinderella Deal by Jennifer Cruise
****4 stars
I make sure to get all of Jennifer Cruise's book when I notice she has one coming out. My only complaint with her books are that they end so quickly. They keep me pulled in even though I can assume what the outcome is going to be. I had a hard time at the beginning getting into the characters of "The Cinderella Deal", but as I read on I found that I really began to warm to them and the book began to take off for me. I truly liked Daisy and her creative free spirit and was eager to see where the book would take her. Definitely one to pass on to my romance reading friends. If you are a Cruise fan you won't be disappointed:)
Book Jacket Summary:
Daisy Flattery is a free spirit with a soft spot for strays and a weakness for a good story. Why else would she agree to the outrageous charade offered by her buttoned-down workaholic neighbor, Linc Blaise? The history professor needs to have a fiancée in order to capture his dream job, and Daisy is game to play the role. But something funny happens on their way to the altar that changes everything. Now, with the midnight hour approaching, will Daisy lose her prince, or will opposites not only attract but live happily ever after?
I make sure to get all of Jennifer Cruise's book when I notice she has one coming out. My only complaint with her books are that they end so quickly. They keep me pulled in even though I can assume what the outcome is going to be. I had a hard time at the beginning getting into the characters of "The Cinderella Deal", but as I read on I found that I really began to warm to them and the book began to take off for me. I truly liked Daisy and her creative free spirit and was eager to see where the book would take her. Definitely one to pass on to my romance reading friends. If you are a Cruise fan you won't be disappointed:)
Book Jacket Summary:
Daisy Flattery is a free spirit with a soft spot for strays and a weakness for a good story. Why else would she agree to the outrageous charade offered by her buttoned-down workaholic neighbor, Linc Blaise? The history professor needs to have a fiancée in order to capture his dream job, and Daisy is game to play the role. But something funny happens on their way to the altar that changes everything. Now, with the midnight hour approaching, will Daisy lose her prince, or will opposites not only attract but live happily ever after?
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin
*****5 stars
I am embarrassed to say that this is the first time that I have read this book. I was given the set, "Something Borrowed", "Something Blue", and "Baby Proof" a couple years ago and stuck them on my shelf. I read the synopsis and was worried that it would be a cringe worthy book, with the thought of cheating. I ended up loaning the books out to a friend to never have them returned. I recently saw the preview for the movie, and knew that I would go see it, and I am a total read the book before watching the movie kinda girl, so I broke down and read "Something Borrowed". WOW! What a great book. I truly loved the character Rachel and could totally identify with her. I think we all have a Darcy relationship in our lives, and if not then are possibly the Darcy. The plot was a bit off-setting and I, as a reader was happy not to be in this certain situation myself, but I do have to say that it definitely makes you think twice before judging. This was a quick paced and enjoyable read. I am not going to have to wait for pay day to go ahead and download "Something Blue". I will be interested to read about Darcy and her point of view and where this takes her. If you haven't read the book, I totally suggest you do. I am sure the movie will be cute, but as with all books that are made into movies, the book is always so much better, I am hoping tho that the movie will stay true to the nature of the book.
Book Jacket Summary:
Rachel White is the consummate good girl. A hard-working attorney at a large Manhattan law firm and a diligent maid of honor to her charmed best friend Darcy, Rachel has always played by all the rules. Since grade school, she has watched Darcy shine, quietly accepting the sidekick role in their lopsided friendship. But that suddenly changes the night of her thirtieth birthday when Rachel finally confesses her feelings to Darcy's fiance, and is both horrified and thrilled to discover that he feels the same way. As the wedding date draws near, events spiral out of control, and Rachel knows she must make a choice between her heart and conscience. In so doing, she discovers that the lines between right and wrong can be blurry, endings aren't always neat, and sometimes you have to risk everything to be true to yourself.
I am embarrassed to say that this is the first time that I have read this book. I was given the set, "Something Borrowed", "Something Blue", and "Baby Proof" a couple years ago and stuck them on my shelf. I read the synopsis and was worried that it would be a cringe worthy book, with the thought of cheating. I ended up loaning the books out to a friend to never have them returned. I recently saw the preview for the movie, and knew that I would go see it, and I am a total read the book before watching the movie kinda girl, so I broke down and read "Something Borrowed". WOW! What a great book. I truly loved the character Rachel and could totally identify with her. I think we all have a Darcy relationship in our lives, and if not then are possibly the Darcy. The plot was a bit off-setting and I, as a reader was happy not to be in this certain situation myself, but I do have to say that it definitely makes you think twice before judging. This was a quick paced and enjoyable read. I am not going to have to wait for pay day to go ahead and download "Something Blue". I will be interested to read about Darcy and her point of view and where this takes her. If you haven't read the book, I totally suggest you do. I am sure the movie will be cute, but as with all books that are made into movies, the book is always so much better, I am hoping tho that the movie will stay true to the nature of the book.
Book Jacket Summary:
Rachel White is the consummate good girl. A hard-working attorney at a large Manhattan law firm and a diligent maid of honor to her charmed best friend Darcy, Rachel has always played by all the rules. Since grade school, she has watched Darcy shine, quietly accepting the sidekick role in their lopsided friendship. But that suddenly changes the night of her thirtieth birthday when Rachel finally confesses her feelings to Darcy's fiance, and is both horrified and thrilled to discover that he feels the same way. As the wedding date draws near, events spiral out of control, and Rachel knows she must make a choice between her heart and conscience. In so doing, she discovers that the lines between right and wrong can be blurry, endings aren't always neat, and sometimes you have to risk everything to be true to yourself.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Any Man of Mine by Rachel Gibson
****4 stars
I love a good romance and am always eager to read Rachel Gibson's books when they come out. "Any man of Mine" was just as I hoped. Rachel Gibson's books always have a bit of suspense and the characters always seem so likeable. I really enjoyed the added bonus of some of the plot taking place in Las Vegas. My only complaint is that I seem to devour these books and read through them within a day and am sad that they have ended. I will be on the lookout for her next book :)
Book Jacket Summary:
What happens in Vegas . . . doesn't always stay there.
Autumn Haven's Las Vegas "to-do" list said to catch a show and play the slots—not wake up married to a sexy jerk like Sam LeClaire. The first moment she saw him eyeing her like a luscious piece of the dessert buffet, her usually responsible self told her to run. And she did—right into the wildest fantasy weekend of her life. But Monday morning jolted her back to reality, and before she could say "pass the coffee," Sam was gone.
Now a successful wedding planner, Autumn hasn't clapped eyes on the heartbreaking hockey superstar for over two years . . . until she organizes his teammate's "Special Day," where Sam makes a big play to pick up where he left off! But she has vowed any man of hers plays for keeps. Is Sam the man for her or does she banish him to the sin bin forever?
I love a good romance and am always eager to read Rachel Gibson's books when they come out. "Any man of Mine" was just as I hoped. Rachel Gibson's books always have a bit of suspense and the characters always seem so likeable. I really enjoyed the added bonus of some of the plot taking place in Las Vegas. My only complaint is that I seem to devour these books and read through them within a day and am sad that they have ended. I will be on the lookout for her next book :)
Book Jacket Summary:
What happens in Vegas . . . doesn't always stay there.
Autumn Haven's Las Vegas "to-do" list said to catch a show and play the slots—not wake up married to a sexy jerk like Sam LeClaire. The first moment she saw him eyeing her like a luscious piece of the dessert buffet, her usually responsible self told her to run. And she did—right into the wildest fantasy weekend of her life. But Monday morning jolted her back to reality, and before she could say "pass the coffee," Sam was gone.
Now a successful wedding planner, Autumn hasn't clapped eyes on the heartbreaking hockey superstar for over two years . . . until she organizes his teammate's "Special Day," where Sam makes a big play to pick up where he left off! But she has vowed any man of hers plays for keeps. Is Sam the man for her or does she banish him to the sin bin forever?
Meet me at Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan
***** 5 stars
I absolutely adored the main character Issy. She was the perfect character for me to relate to. She was sweet, caring and a bit old world or as some would call it naive. She is what my brother would call a people pleaser, and I can totally relate :) I am a fan of Jenny Colgan's books and was so happy to see this released. I especially liked the added touches she put on this book. There was a wonderful preface and each chapter it seemed came with a recipe to try. I, unfortunately, am still trying to shed those unwelcome pounds, but will go back at a later date and reread this book and actually try one or two of them, as I am fond of baking. "Meet Me at Cupcake Cafe" is a heart warming story of doing what you love and doing it your way!
Book Jacket Summary:
Ever dreamed of starting over? Issy Randall can bake. No, more than that - Issy can create stunning, mouth-wateringly divine cakes. After a childhood spent in her beloved Grampa Joe's bakery she has undoubtedly inherited his talent. So when she's made redundant from her safe but dull City job, Issy decides to seize the moment and open up her own cafe. It should be a piece of cake, right? Wrong. As her friends point out, she has trouble remembering where she left her house keys, let alone trying to run her own business. But Issy is determined. Armed with recipes posted to her from Grampa, and with her local bank manager fighting her corner, Issy attempts to prove everyone wrong. Following your dreams is never easy and this is no exception. Can Issy do it?
I absolutely adored the main character Issy. She was the perfect character for me to relate to. She was sweet, caring and a bit old world or as some would call it naive. She is what my brother would call a people pleaser, and I can totally relate :) I am a fan of Jenny Colgan's books and was so happy to see this released. I especially liked the added touches she put on this book. There was a wonderful preface and each chapter it seemed came with a recipe to try. I, unfortunately, am still trying to shed those unwelcome pounds, but will go back at a later date and reread this book and actually try one or two of them, as I am fond of baking. "Meet Me at Cupcake Cafe" is a heart warming story of doing what you love and doing it your way!
Book Jacket Summary:
Ever dreamed of starting over? Issy Randall can bake. No, more than that - Issy can create stunning, mouth-wateringly divine cakes. After a childhood spent in her beloved Grampa Joe's bakery she has undoubtedly inherited his talent. So when she's made redundant from her safe but dull City job, Issy decides to seize the moment and open up her own cafe. It should be a piece of cake, right? Wrong. As her friends point out, she has trouble remembering where she left her house keys, let alone trying to run her own business. But Issy is determined. Armed with recipes posted to her from Grampa, and with her local bank manager fighting her corner, Issy attempts to prove everyone wrong. Following your dreams is never easy and this is no exception. Can Issy do it?
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