Carla Laureano

I really enjoyed coming back to Haven Ridge to meet Gemma and Stephen. Thomas and Mallory from the prequel novella make fun cameo appearances in this book. I loved the setting of Haven Ridge nestled in the mountains of Colorado and fell in love all over again with the charming town and its occupants.

Gemma and Stephen have a world of hurt between them from their past but when forced into close proximity with the welfare of a teenager and the town on their shoulders, they fall into an easy natural rhythm only found with those who know each other intimately. They fall in love again pretty quickly and their romance sizzles throughout the book. There isn't necessarily a faith thread here but there is some magical realism concerning the town of Haven Ridge that's kind of fun. Gemma's passion for her work as family lawyer and Stephen's passion for his work in teaching literature add depth and dimension to who they are. I can't wait to read Liv's story next!

I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.… (plus d'informations)

A fabulous conclusion to a delightful trilogy! Ana and Bryan are fun to watch, and seeing Rachel and Melody again brings it all full circle. One of Laureano's strengths in novel-writing (and she has many) is her strong dialogue. The characters are never boring, and they dialogue in a snappy, smart, engaging way. Also I appreciated the Fair Trade elements to the Solid Grounds Coffee Co (yes, that's part of the story, not just the title). Finally, Ana is no 22-yr-old getting starry-eyed at her first serious crush. She's got history. Bryan's got baggage. How they figure things out given all that makes this a fabulous read for more mature readers (and educational for younger ones). Great job, Carla. I kinda wish the trio had more friends so we could stick with them!… (plus d'informations)

It’s Melody’s turn! Rachel Bishop’s Supper Club pastry magician pal finds herself choosing one dream over another. A classically trained baker, Melody has been working the night shift at a chain bakery store when her grandmother’s legacy gives her the funding to chase her dream—her own patisserie. She meets pilot Justin Keller during a snowstorm, and they hit it off. But he’s got dreams too—to open an air charter business in Florida, part of his plan to help his sister heal from her long-term illness. Melody, who has been collaborating with Rachel, is faced with giving up her dream (and letting down her friend) or giving up Justin (and letting herself down). Laureano, as usual, includes mouth-watering foodie scenes that both break up and increase the tension. Melody and Justin both wrestle with their faith, creating an extra dose of reality. Because spiritual issues are common to almost everyone, and ignoring those keeps the stakes less weighty. I always appreciate characters with emotional and spiritual depth. Supper Club fans will love this second installment in the trilogy and await the third with excitement.… (plus d'informations)