This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Published by Kensington
Released on August 27, 2019
Pages: 320
Format: eARC
Source: NetGalley
The Delight
An Autumn-themed three-some of small town romance novellas by all new to me authors that I’ve wanted to try for ever so long was just the thing. While I usually gravitate toward dark and chilling reads at this time of the year, my mood called for these sweeter tasting, gently-paced heartwarming stories with just a pinch of matchmaking magic as one of the ingredients.
Review
As I said, these were all new to me authors and I thought it was neat that they got together and set their stories all in the same small town in Maine with the Bellaluna Bakery at the center of it all. Each story is standalone and separate, but had a nice flow in from one to the next.
The first novella, Sweet Magic, gives the origin to the Bellaluna Bakeshop and the Italian family who inherit a dash of kitchen magic that allows them to help some of their customers find true love. Sadly for Bree, she has not inherited her magic yet because she hasn’t found her own true love. But then a handsome, geeky-looking Greek walks in and speaks her language in more ways than one. Caleb loves to cook and family is important to him just like Bree and her baking and family. But, Caleb’s stay to take care of his uncle’s restaurant is temporary right?
This one was sweet and engaging with a little conflict to give it some spice.
Love Spells Disaster was the second novella and it started off with plenty of spice and conflict when Cassie gets her knickers in a knot that the wrong guy sampled her box of ‘special’ Bellaluna cookies. She’s got a crush on her boss, Sam, who doesn’t notice her and she wants his attention and not the annoying Chip who overhears just what she thinks of him, but still turns up to do the contractor job she hired. Will Cassie see the real opportunity of love under her nose before its too late?
Cassie was a jerk at first and I wasn’t sure if there would be enough to turn things around and sell me on the romance. It was a near thing since I honestly didn’t think she gave enough to Chip for encouragement and it was a novella so I saw it through and got some warm fuzzies in the end for this pair.
The final novella, Sweet On You, turned out to be oh so delectable. Lara is having the worst day ever- dumped by boyfriend and given a raise in rent that she can’t afford by her landlord while working a job that is under-paying her. Fortunately, its Nonna Sofia to the rescue with some magic cookies and a handsome mayor who joins her at her table and gives her a job helping him plot out the town’s big Halloween Parade and festivities. This one was a savory friends to lovers and finished this book strong for me.
All in all, I saw something in each author’s story that drew me into their writing and made me want to grab more of their books. My desire for romance with a fall holiday setting was fulfilled and I enjoyed the cozy, warm quality to these that put me in the mood for the season. Contemporary Romance fans who love the autumn small town settings should give this one a go.
I received this book via Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
Challenges Met
New Release #134
A Year in Anthologies #8
Preview
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A Sweet and delectable read.
It sure was. 🙂 Made me so hungry for bakery goods.
Oh it looks good!
It hit the spot for some adorable fall-themed romances. 🙂
What a cute book and cover!
It is adorable. Caught my attention right away. 🙂
This is on my radar for sure. It’s been on hold at my library for a week or so. I’ve read Kate Angell before and really enjoyed her books. If you look around, you will also find another anthology by a few of the same authors that came out last year. 🙂
Great review!
Hope it comes in soon for you. I’ve seen her Barefoot Bay series and that looked fun.
Oh cool! I’ll have to hunt it up. 🙂
Kauffman and Angell are two of my fave authors, and even though I’m not a fan of pumpkins, this cover is absolutely fabulous! Looks like we’re into the new season! Hugs, RO
This just might be the book for you with two of your favorite authors in it. They were all new to me, but I had a good time with each story. LOL on the pumpkins. I think most of their bake goods are Italian so not alot of pumpkin flavor. 🙂
That cover is making me hungry for something sweet.
Oh man, seriously, and that’s nothing to actually reading about the treats and scents in that place with each story. 🙂
The first and third novellas sound really good! I’m in the mood for a sweet romance, one to read by the fire a fall luxury I’m now enjoying! Wonderful review, Sophia Rose! 🙂
Oh yeah, this one will give you some good fall ambience. 🙂
This book sounds like the perfect way to pass a chilly day!
Karen @ For What It’s Worth
It sure is, Karen. I read it while it was sweltering, but I’d love it for cozying up with my blanket. So sweet!