5 frosting covered stars!
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I'm pretty sure this book will stay on my top 10 books of 2014 , if not ever.
I haven't laughed so hard while reading a book in a while, sometimes cry and laugh at the same time. Sugar Rush is the 3rd book in the Friend-Zoned series (which I am now ashamed to say I haven't read yet) but can be read as a standalone. It follows the story of Helena, a hilariously awkward girl who is extremely fond of cupcakes ( as she would've said " Holla!" ). She doesn't really care what people think about her, she's not whiny, not really angsty, although she is highly dramatic. Helena is normal girl from a normal family, who has had to work her bum off to establish her career. Her family is large, wild and very close. She's the baby of the family, so everyone is highly protective of her, especially her brother in law and his family.
So when she sees uber-flirt and gorgeous Max at her sister's wedding, she tries to get him to pay attention to her. This is actually where the book starts, and right from the start I had tears rolling down my face from laughing so hard at the wedding scene. At that specific moment, I became Belle Aurora's newest fan. Back to the story....
At her intent to flirt, Max completely ignores her. AND calls her HELEN, which is almost a sacrilege. From that moment on, Helena's long-time crush on Max Leokov blossoms into longing, pining, whining and hilarious bitterness.
Some time afterward, Helena moves to NY right next to her sister Nat's apartment. She meets Max again and sparks fly. But normally friendly Helena is cold and bitchy towards Max, and no one understands why. So of course, Max tries his best to understand why she doesn't like him.
Enough with the breakdown, I'm sure you read the blurb by now. Max is so clueless , cute, observant, sexy in that unassuming way and funny it's impossible to not fall in love with him. His devotion to his daughter and family is admirable and just so effin sweet. At times I did want to slap him, but he's easy to forgive. No broodiness here. Even when he's had his life turned upside down and slapped with tragedy, he remains guarded yet optimistic. Their chemistry sizzles and sparks fly when these two are together.
The story moves along at a great pace, with a powerful yet subtle theme : Family isn't necessarily bound by blood, and it is always first. The group of characters in this book is beyond memorable and characters I would love to have around in real life. I loved the ending and was left completely satisfied with it . Overall, an outstanding read that I plan to revisit again and again, right after I finish every single book by this author.
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What a sweet romantic Christmas book.

Paige Rion kept me going back for more (and it wasn't just for the pumpkin pie) with Dashing Through the Snow!

Wynn and Gemma run the bakery in town across from Zane's work place, and ever since he first stopped in and saw Wynn, he kept coming back, each day just to see her. There's an undeniable attraction between the two, and it only escalates. But, there are things both are fighting that keep them from truly giving in to their feelings. Will they get together, or will Wynn run when it comes to commitment?

This novella has everything. Food, romance, crazy relatives and "will they just kiss already?" moments. You won't want to miss out on the fun of the Christmas season in this read!
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I love Sosie Frost, every time she releases a new book I jump for joy and this book was no exception. I received a free ARC from the author and I loved it!!! So good and super HOT, the heat on this book was turned WAAAY up and it was simply divine. Julian and Micah were such tangible characters, they both felt so real and relatable, and it was nice to see small glimpses of Rem and Cassi. I love Lucy Score's Blue Moon series and I am slowly beginning to love the small town of Butterpond as much as I love the small town of Blue Moon. Great Book, I highly suggest reading.
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Rating 4.5/5
With all the ingredients to make a great romantic read!. . . . This is the fourth book in the How to Bake the Perfect. series. It started with Pecan Pie, then Christmas Cake followed by Apple Pie and now Wedding Cake. The romance between Lauren Hauser and Jack Walker is followed through the books at different festive seasons and culminates in this one, so it is important to read them in the correct order!

Their romance has be filled with plenty of angst and turmoil but this time it isn't her family causing the problems, but office politics and some of her work colleagues - especially Trent. Theres sexual harassment, wedding planning blues, nausea, home and baby planning all in the mix. Some parts are laugh out loud hilarious, others sad, you go through the whole gamut of emotions with the characters in this superb novel. Will they actually get married? Do they have the perfect recipe to achieve their HEA? Youll just have to read it yourself to find out!

The characters have continued to develop as this series has progressed but through it all Jack is such a fantastic hero - kind, considerate, loving, protective, handsome and hot. He helps hold things together when Lauren is stressed or freaking out with his fantastic sense of humour. Theres no family recipe in this one but there is another baking challenge, lots more love and laughter in this, which I presume is the concluding tale, in this light hearted romance series by a very talented author. It has so many unanticipated revelations, deviations and dramatic interludes there's no chance to get bored. Ill definitely be looking out for other books by her in future!

Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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I absolutely loved everything about this book! I am a sucker for forbidden romance, especially when that romance involves a best friend's little sister. Cocksure had me giggling, nervous, intrigued, and so many other emotions. I will definitely be reading more from these authors!

The Story. First of all, this story was very well written and had a nice flow to it. I loved all of the characters and side characters in this book. I felt there was tremendous growth in both of the main characters as well has a great depth to them. There was a slight suspense element to it that I loved having in there because it gave it a little spice. Plus who doesn't love a bunch of hot firemen ready to come to the rescue?! Everly moves back to Boston after living in California for ten years due to her bitch of an ex-boyfriend, and she is looking for a new start in life. When her childhood crush doesn't recognize her, she takes life by the horns and goes after what she has always wanted. However, their night together brings in all sorts of complications...the biggest one of all being her overprotective big brother, Cameron. Niko is only interested in no strings attached, but gets the shock of his life when Post-It note girl from the bar, "Alyson," gives him a taste of his own medicine. Niko can't stop thinking about this girl and wants to find her again. Although, he might have bitten off more than he can chew when he realizes exactly who he took home.

Everly. After being screwed over by her ex, Everly is only looking to settle into her new life with her new job and her new house. She has been burned in the worst way and is only looking for something easy. That doesn't exactly happen when her feelings for Niko come back in full force the minute she sees him again. Everly throws up walls left and right and it takes a lot for her to finally let her guard down. I found myself getting frustrated with her a few times because of this, but I also completely understood the reasons behind her actions.

Niko. Niko is my favorite character in this book because he knows what he wants and his perseverance is admirable. Post-It girl completely turned Niko's life upside down and he finds himself abandoning his playboy ways in exchange for the one woman who he can't stop thinking about. I totally felt for Niko when Everly kept punishing him for her ex's sins and the guilt he felt for sleeping with his best friend's sister. I really loved how protective he was of Everly and how he was willing to risk his lifelong friendship for the woman he loves.

The Relationship. These two were a match made in heaven. It might have taken them a while to get it right, but when they did, it was beautiful. I felt there was a great balance in the relationship and that the characters truly grew together. I think it is so important for authors to also highlight the characters growth as a couple as well as individuals. In real life, it takes work and it takes time to create a lasting relationship, and I loved the realistic feel of this relationship.

I highly recommend this book to those who love: forbidden romance, contemporary, firemen, character growth, and amazing relationships.

Overall Rating: /
2299024
5 Forever Stars

*Sighs*
As much as I hate to see this series come to an end, I absolutely ADORED this final installment and enjoyed all my favorite characters coming together again for THE wedding of the year.  Fresh off the highly publicized proposal, Ace and Dylan, along with Paige, embark on the journey of planning their wedding.  These two couldn't be any more perfect for each if they tried.  When Ace is feeling overwhelmed with wedding stuff, Dylan is there to reign him and calm him down, and when Dylan is overwhelmed with the premiere of their movie, leave it Ace to calm his nerves in the dirtiest of ways. I found myself laughing at all the antics throughout the bachelor party, my heart bursting with the love being shown from all the friends and family, and my pulse racing from all the sexiness these two exude both in and out of the sheets! Whew!  But most of all, I found myself with tears running down my face at the EPIC epilogue. I have so much love for these two characters and find myself wishing they were real and a part of my life.  Do yourself a favor and pick up this series today.

Angela  Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
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Cookie baker and owner of The Gingerbread House, Olivia 's mother, Ellie is truly a eccentric soul. She loves anything yoga and fitness and when she decides she wants to open a Arts & Crafts School, Olivia is excited by the aspect of baking in the kitchen where baking classes are to be held taught by Olivia's best friend and business partner, Maddie.

The renovations are in full swing as the workers find hidden bones within the walls of the  was once a  old boarding house along with the bones there are treasures to behold that only Olivia and Maddie could love a silver necklace with a cookie cutter charm and later discovered more antique cookie cutters and more bones. A highly emotional teenager, Alicia is sure the bones belong to her father because she had once given him the silver necklace with the charm.

The cookie cutter connection prove to be too much for Cookie bakers Olivia and Maddie and they are instantly drawn into the investigation but finding the secrets to the hidden bones means that they have to seek out a murderer that could lead to danger but antique cookie cutters and the search for the truth are far more paramount to this cookie baking duo.

Cookie cutters and murder. Author Virginia Lowell brilliantly brings them both together and I loved how it instantly drew me into the story. Food and murder always draw me in and  Dead Men Don't eat cookies was hard to put down and no exception. I love Livie and Maddie and they made an exciting crime fighting team and and their investigating and cookie baking adventures inside The Gingerbread House bakery by far my favorite moments to this mystery with baking and delicious food descriptions only a true foodie like me can love. I'm still dying to know what diner owner Pete puts in his meatloaf's secret sauce.

FTC Disclosure: Thank you to the publisher for providing me a copy of this book for review. This did not influence my thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book and review are my own and my reviews are honest.
1080598
4 - 4.5 Stars

There was so much I loved about this book - holiday season, road trip and second chance love! Gah - heart melty!

Charlie is desperate to get home for Christmas but due to a crazy winter storm flights have been canceled, busses are full and rentals cars are sold out! But along comes Gavin, who has managed to snag the last rental car out there. He offers Charlie a ride and it's something he can't refuse, even with their past history.

This story definitely starts out with a hate/hate relationship - both men questioning how they got themselves into this situation, but quickly we see the misunderstandings of being young and the true feelings they have for each other.

This story totally grabbed me, I couldn't put it down once I started reading and I absolutely loved it! Charlie and Gavin both made mistakes in the past but they are just meant for each other! They made me smile and they made my heart happy! This will definitely be a go-to holiday re-read for me!

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
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A very good friend, whom I trust implicitly when it comes to book recommendations, told me I had to read Beth Ciotta's Cupcake Lovers novels as I'd fall in love with her writing and the town of Sugar Creek, Vermont. Well, when I heard that, I quickly started to devour the novels - and just like cupcakes, they're delicious, addictive, and absolutely perfect.

First of all, may I say if you haven't already, please, please get start reading the series as this is a fun, romantic, sexy, touching, and all together pleasurable romp. Ciotta is a master at making you laugh while you read, while at the same time you absolutely need to make sure that the Kleenex box is close at hand as tears sometimes fall.

Some Kind of Wonderful is a beautiful holiday novella. With the aim of the Cupcake Lovers club to support serviceman, it's only fitting that this story focuses on former Marine Scout Sniper Zachary Cole and Orlando-based cupcake baker Maya Templeton. Best friends from their Sugar Creek childhood, Maya's taken a Cyrano role in Zachary's love life after her business partner and very sexy friend, Giselle, took one look at his photo and fell into lust. While Giselle's photos definitely sparked Zach's interest; his very hot letters were reciprocated by his platonic best friend Maya, not Giselle. But May is the one who now stands on the outside looking in as Giselle and Zach meet at a Cupcake Lovers Christmas party in Sugar Creek.

But all is not lost as best friends sometimes, with a little Christmas magic, might evolve into something more. In fact, Ciotta channels a little Charles Dicken's with some holiday visitors to Zach to smooth the way. The way in which Ciotta lets us see who Zach and Maya are, what their fears are, and what their hopes and dreams are is beautiful. That she sprinkles a little holiday magic along the way - just perfect. Again, five cupcakes, perhaps decorated with some candy canes.

Cupcake Lovers is a series that combines an innocence of heart with some very steamy romance - as well as a zany crew of characters that you will fall in love with. I've already marked my calendar for the 1 July 2014 release date of In the Mood for Love, where we will find out what happens with Harper Day and Sam McCloud, who will now have the leading roles in the series.

Fab Fantasy Fiction
[...]

[I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.]
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Kate's Kisses introduces us to Sweet Treats Bakery, a delectable, cozy-up spot for sweets, coffee, friendship and romance. Kate Spencer runs the shop with her three sisters--and Kate battles back an ocean of pain. The death of her parents and a broken engagement leave her vulnerable, but so real, and still so beautifully spirited. Enter Logan Daniels--the ex-fiancee. He's back in town for a development project, and the "small-town kid made good" has grown up and matured since the mistake he admits he made in letting Kate go. In fact, he's out to win her back with complete heart and conviction.

Manners spins a tale of second chances, tender love, and family relationships that touch the soul. I thoroughly enjoyed both her style of writing, and the engaging way the story between Kate and Logan unfolded and bloomed--despite the odds.

Kate's Kisses is a wonderful kick-off to the series, and I can't wait for more!
4729433
Another freaking hilarious book! I loved it! The ending to Seduction and Snacks was great but I didn't feel like it made it where there absolutely had to be a sequel. I was thrilled there was and that I got to see what was happening next for these guys! In Futures and Frosting, we pick up just a few weeks or so after S & S ends. The gang is getting ready for Liz and Jim's wedding (view spoiler) Claire undergoes a personality change after the wedding and can't make up her mind if she detests the idea of getting married one day or is upset Carter hasn't popped the question yet. This leads to some seriously funny moments! In fact, the whole book is seriously funny! From pot cookies to almost getting arrested for public indecency, this was a non stop ride on the funny train. I have to be honest though and say that even though I really loved everything about this book, I still love Seduction more. Maybe because it was first... My absolute favorite part of Futures has to be the ending though! The epilogue is... well, epic! :) Its such a perfect ending for this story. I have heard that there will be a third book that will be Drew and Jenny's story, which would be insanely hilarious I'm sure, but don't quote me on that as I don't know for certain! Here's hoping with fingers crossed. Lets not forget to mention Gavin and his insanely obscene mouth and the crazy shit that comes out of it! He is hilarious!! But we wouldn't expect anything less, would we! :) I will never hear the word vagina and not think of him again! I will also be adopting the term 'juice bag' as it is a multi use term: a) I can say it in front of my kids and not feel as bad! lol b) its just freakin hilarious!

Favorite quote from Gavin this go round: "My mom's not afraid to punch a kid."

Favorite quote from Claire: "I've also been keeping my pimp hand strong, just in case Jim gets out of line and needs a little bitch slap."

And Carter: "Oh my Jesus. I think I just grew a vagina."
( I think this is my favorite )

O.K, so there are way more quotes but we all know my aversion to going to jail for plagiarism, so I will settle for saying GO READ THIS BOOK!!! :) That is all.
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Ada Frost has become one of my favorite authors. I have loved this series so much but I have to say this book is by far my favorite one! Oh my gosh Will, I don't even know what to say about this man. He is one hot alpha male! I was so intrigued with his story line that I couldn't wait to read his book and I wasn't disappointed at all. Emily is such a strong female with a past that will make your heart hurt for her but also you learn how strong she is. Will and Emily both have been scorned in such a shocking way that to see them love each other so completely and honestly will leave you smiling. Seeing Will not only shower Emily with his love but also watching him fall in love with Izzy will melt your heart. Oh and Will and his motorcycle just might have you blushing. One click this book immediately!
1470260
This one gave me all the feels! I loved Ethan and Tori from the start. Add in two super cute kids and my heart melted. This family captured me from the start and didn't let go. Even now days later I am hooked on them.
Reckless can definitely be read as a standalone. I have not read Shameless and never once felt lost. But you better believe I will be fixing that asap!
Tori is such a fun, sweet character, I couldn't help but love her and my heart ached for her. And I was a bit angry with her family for not having faith in her.
Ethan is H.O.T. I mean who couldn't love a sexy single dad who just wants to keep his kids safe. Even if that is from their horrible mother.
I loved their story and I cannot wait to get more from this amazing group of characters that I am now in love with.
1715590
This book is hilariously sweet with just the right amount of naughty! Who doesn't love the idea of falling in love with your best friend? Even better when he's a sexy as hell doctor! I can't say enough amazing things about Chase and Josie! These characters are awesome!

Josie is a sweet bakery owner who love that she's different! He brown hair with pink tips make her stand out in a crowd! And Chase...he's your sexy, athletic ER doctor...who's all to happy to offer unsolicited advice to his patient's!

This story made my night! It made me smile and laugh while maybe making me slightly overheated! The chemistry between these two characters is odd the charts! And I love how much they tried to fight their feelings! Even when they were the only ones who knew they were holding back! This is such a fun story!
3469274
Lizzie is a flower shop owner, but since college, he learned how to make some extra cash to help her family, and her double life was born. Lizzie is your friendly Naked Baker, but she makes sure you'll never know. Anyone else in the mood for cupcakes? Who would have thought that baked goods could get any sweeter? That's right, the creative mind of Addison Cole.

While Blue has eyes only for Lizzie, she shoots him down constantly and he doesn't understand why the attraction is clear. He finally has his shot, but when he learns of the Naked Baker, can they make things last. When faced with sharing someone you love with anyone else, you are blind to rational thought. It's a road of ups and downs, and a great read and break from any everyday monotony that you may be experiencing.

*An advance copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes only, at my request, all opinions expressed are my own*
4454506
Lizzie and Blue's relationship is a slow burn. Addison Cole has a talent with making kisses sizzle!  You don't want to miss out on the fun with this story--add some frosting on the side to play along with the Naked Baker!
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The Christmas Cookie Collection is the perfect book to curl up with for the holidays! Lori Wilde has put together a terrific set of Christmas themed novellas, all centered around the town of Twilight, Texas and the town's Sweetheart legend.
In the first novella, we meet Carrie and Mark. Once high-school sweethearts, and previously married, life took the two of them in different directions. When Mark comes back to Twilight for his job, the sparks immediately fly & he realizes that Carrie has always been his fate. It's a sweet story of second-chance love!
The second novella focuses on Raylene and her daughter, Shannon. This was my favorite story in the book for a couple of reasons. First, we were able to see the new love grow between Shannon and Nate. Theirs was my favorite of all the relationships. Secondly, if you're a fan of Raylene's, you get to see her reconnect with the man she's been in love with her whole life, her husband Earl. Of course, there's also the reconciliation of Raylene and Shannon, mother and daughter. I loved everything about this novella!
The third novella in the story introduces us to Christine and Eli. Eli is a widower, and Christine is the woman he had a crush on back in high-school. When he stops by her bakery to order a cake for his daughter, he's immediately struck by the idea that she is meant for him. This was a beautiful story about acceptance and family. I loved Christine's strength!
The final novella...utter perfection! I don't want to give anything away about the snippet of Flynn and Jesse's life that we get to see. I'll say, though, that you may need to keep a few tissues handy. It was a beautiful glimpse of Christmas miracles!

I'd like to thank Ms. Wilde for the chance to read & review this book for her. I'm a big fan of her stories. She writes characters, that while sometimes rough around the edges, always have pure hearts. The town of Twilight was charming & I really enjoyed all of the Christmas merriment (especially the tree decorating in Shannon & Nate's story). The Christmas Cookie collection was the perfect read to put me in the holiday mood!