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Moonbright, Maine #2
The Bakeshop at Pumpkin and Spice
Every autumn, Moonbright, Maine, is the picture of charm with its piles of crisp leaves, flickering jack-o’-lanterns … and a touch of the sweetest kind of enchantment.
Witches, goblins, the occasional ghost—they’re all sure to be spotted at the annual Halloween parade, where adults and children alike dress in costume to celebrate Moonbright’s favorite holiday. And no place has more seasonal spirit than Bellaluna’s Bakeshop, a family business steeped in traditional recipes, welcoming warmth—and, legend has it, truly spellbinding, heart-melting treats …
Between good-natured Halloween tricks, frothy pumpkin lattes, and some very special baked goods, for three Moonbright residents looking for love—whether they know it or not—the spookiest thing will be how magical romance can suddenly be …
Witches, goblins, the occasional ghost—they’re all sure to be spotted at the annual Halloween parade, where adults and children alike dress in costume to celebrate Moonbright’s favorite holiday. And no place has more seasonal spirit than Bellaluna’s Bakeshop, a family business steeped in traditional recipes, welcoming warmth—and, legend has it, truly spellbinding, heart-melting treats …
Between good-natured Halloween tricks, frothy pumpkin lattes, and some very special baked goods, for three Moonbright residents looking for love—whether they know it or not—the spookiest thing will be how magical romance can suddenly be …
359 pages, Paperback
First published August 27, 2019
About the author
Donna Kauffman
137 books1,790 followersUSA Today bestseller and award winning author of the Cupcake Club series and the Blueberry Cove series, DONNA KAUFFMAN has been gratified to see her books get rave reviews in venues ranging from Kirkus Reviews and Library Journal to Entertainment Weekly and Cosmopolitan. She lives in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in southwestern Virginia, where she is happily working on the next book in her brand new Blue Hollow Falls series, set right in her mountain home area. When she's not writing, she can be found recapping the popular tv show NCIS for USA Today, or escaping into her garden to play in the dirt. Donna also works as a volunteer wildlife transporter for two local sanctuaries, giving orphaned and injured wildlife a second chance at survival. You can catch up on all of her adventures via her author page on Facebook, or on Twitter, or Instagram @writerchick. Donna loves to hear from readers! You can contact her through her website at www.donnakauffman.com.
Donna Kauffman passed away on April 9, 2020 of pancreatic cancer.
Donna Kauffman passed away on April 9, 2020 of pancreatic cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 436 reviews
October 11, 2021
The Bakeshop at Pumpkin and Spice by Donna Kauffman, Kate Angell, and Allyson Charles is the second book in the contemporary romance Moonbright, Maine series. The Moonbright, Maine series is like other romances in which the books can be read as a standalone or in any other with differing characters. However, there is a twist to this series in which the books are actually three different novella length tales in each so now with book two we are up to six different stories in the two books combined all set in Moonbright, Maine tying them together.
The three different stories in here are Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman, Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles and Sweet On You by Kate Angell. All three are feel good romances in which the three lead ladies are looking for love. The stories are all set at Halloween with plenty of holiday spirit in each. While I really enjoyed the stories I had my usual short story complaint of wishing there were more to each. I felt as if as soon as I was invested it would move onto the next and I found myself wishing for more depth which I often do with novellas. I finished this one with a rating of three and a half stars and I would recommend them especially if you are a fan of shorter reads.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The three different stories in here are Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman, Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles and Sweet On You by Kate Angell. All three are feel good romances in which the three lead ladies are looking for love. The stories are all set at Halloween with plenty of holiday spirit in each. While I really enjoyed the stories I had my usual short story complaint of wishing there were more to each. I felt as if as soon as I was invested it would move onto the next and I found myself wishing for more depth which I often do with novellas. I finished this one with a rating of three and a half stars and I would recommend them especially if you are a fan of shorter reads.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 23, 2019
The parade of Halloween 🎃 themed books continues...😂𝕊𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕄𝕒𝕘𝕚𝕔 by 𝓓𝓸𝓷𝓷𝓪 𝓚𝓪𝓾𝓯𝓯𝓶𝓪𝓷 🍬
🌟🌟 - I'll be honest I almost DNF this story. 👎 It had all the ingredients ⬅ (see what I did there 😂) to be a great story. 🍛Magic. 🎇 A bakeshop. 🎂 Great family. 👫 Insta-love, but I found it just really lackluster. 🙈 It bored me. 😴 I wish the author had spent less time on family dynamics and more on developing the romance which was pretty much nonexistent. 👎
The cookie recipe though...YUMMO! 🍴
𝕃𝕠𝕧𝕖 𝕊𝕡𝕖𝕝𝕝𝕤 𝔻𝕚𝕤𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣 by 𝓐𝓵𝓵𝔂𝓼𝓸𝓷 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓵𝓮𝓼 🎃
🌟🌟🌟 - I enjoyed this story more than the previous one. 🙌 It was more couple focused, and I really liked Chip. 💕 Cassie, well, her attitude was pretty damn rude and some things she said to Chip were awful. 😠 What he saw in her I have NO clue. 👀 However, she apologized, and they made a cute couple...so I went with it. 💑
Bonus...we get another cookie recipe. 🍪
𝕊𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕠𝕟 𝕐𝕠𝕦 by 𝓚𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓐𝓷𝓰𝓮𝓵𝓵 🍰
🌟🌟🌟🌟 - This one was my favorite story of the bunch. 💗 Jack and Lara were both great characters. 💑 The romance was sweet. 🍬 It was suitably festive. 🎃 I loved Edna. 🙈 I just have one question...who the heck was Wonder Woman and Clark Kent??! 😳 Since that was brought up in the first story I assumed that the couple would feature in one of the other two stories, but nope...it is never brought up again. 👀
And as with the first two books we again get a delicious sounding cookie recipe! 🎃
September 12, 2019
Halloween is just around the corner, and the denizens of Moonbright, Maine know how to celebrate. Jack-o’-lanterns, haunted houses, and even a parade ring in the season— and for a lucky few, there just might be a hint of magic in the air. Three budding romances. Three novellas. One magical bakeshop.
Sweet Magic
Bree works in her family’s bakery, Bellaluna’s, where the secret ingredient is magic. Among all the mouth-watering treats that they regularly dish out rests a special cookie that can nudge would-be couples together. Though Bree has tried to perfect the recipe, her attempts have always come up short … but then Caleb, a visiting restaurateur, steps in and gets a taste of her latest creation.
Author Donna Kauffman is tasked with opening the collection, setting up the hook that pulls each of these three stories together. It’s a delicious treat. Though there is a certain level of love at first sight between Bree and Caleb, Kauffman balances it with plenty of tension. Both are hesitant to rush into a relationship, and an interesting twist forces them to think outside of themselves. Charming without drifting into saccharine, it’s a perfectly sweet opening.
Love Spells Disaster
Cassie knows what she wants, and right at the top of her list is a date with her boss. Armed with two cookies from Bellaluna’s, she has the perfect plan. However, she’s thwarted when Chip, perhaps the complete opposite of her boss, helps himself to one of the treats. But it’s hard to stay angry at him when he agrees to help her build her dream haunted house.
Author Allyson Charles just might thrive off of complicated characters. Some of Cassie’s judgments of Chip are harsh, and there are moments when she’s downright unlikable. And yet, Charles skillfully allows her to grow and change, ultimately leading to a satisfying conclusion. It’s a remarkable journey in only a few short pages. With some clever character work mixed with genuinely funny scenes, this makes for a fun and brief entry.
Sweet On You
Getting dumped was not how Lara wanted to start her day. Toss in an increase in her rent and an unsustainable job and things might not be able to get much worse. However, after a trip to Bellalun’s, she scores a new job working for Mayor Jack Hanson— planning the Halloween parade. But as the two work to create the most memorable Halloween celebration Moonbright has ever seen, old feelings are stirred up.
While each of the three stories features the community, this one goes all-in. The Halloween parade is the pinnacle of Moonbright’s festivities, and the planning process leads to some heartwarming revelations about residents. Author Kate Angell has perfected the feel-good romance, with Lara and Jack gradually forming a realistic connection by working on something that benefits others. With plenty of callbacks to the first two stories, this is the perfect wrap-up.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Sweet Magic
Bree works in her family’s bakery, Bellaluna’s, where the secret ingredient is magic. Among all the mouth-watering treats that they regularly dish out rests a special cookie that can nudge would-be couples together. Though Bree has tried to perfect the recipe, her attempts have always come up short … but then Caleb, a visiting restaurateur, steps in and gets a taste of her latest creation.
Author Donna Kauffman is tasked with opening the collection, setting up the hook that pulls each of these three stories together. It’s a delicious treat. Though there is a certain level of love at first sight between Bree and Caleb, Kauffman balances it with plenty of tension. Both are hesitant to rush into a relationship, and an interesting twist forces them to think outside of themselves. Charming without drifting into saccharine, it’s a perfectly sweet opening.
Love Spells Disaster
Cassie knows what she wants, and right at the top of her list is a date with her boss. Armed with two cookies from Bellaluna’s, she has the perfect plan. However, she’s thwarted when Chip, perhaps the complete opposite of her boss, helps himself to one of the treats. But it’s hard to stay angry at him when he agrees to help her build her dream haunted house.
Author Allyson Charles just might thrive off of complicated characters. Some of Cassie’s judgments of Chip are harsh, and there are moments when she’s downright unlikable. And yet, Charles skillfully allows her to grow and change, ultimately leading to a satisfying conclusion. It’s a remarkable journey in only a few short pages. With some clever character work mixed with genuinely funny scenes, this makes for a fun and brief entry.
Sweet On You
Getting dumped was not how Lara wanted to start her day. Toss in an increase in her rent and an unsustainable job and things might not be able to get much worse. However, after a trip to Bellalun’s, she scores a new job working for Mayor Jack Hanson— planning the Halloween parade. But as the two work to create the most memorable Halloween celebration Moonbright has ever seen, old feelings are stirred up.
While each of the three stories features the community, this one goes all-in. The Halloween parade is the pinnacle of Moonbright’s festivities, and the planning process leads to some heartwarming revelations about residents. Author Kate Angell has perfected the feel-good romance, with Lara and Jack gradually forming a realistic connection by working on something that benefits others. With plenty of callbacks to the first two stories, this is the perfect wrap-up.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
October 16, 2019
I had high hopes for this festively packaged novella collection because it’s not often that you find a Halloween themed story collection, particularly not one in the romance genre. But unfortunately, this one fell short of my expectations. It was a bit silly, dull and frustrating with heartless, shallow characters, and simplistic, predictable plots. I enjoyed the idea of tying all three stories together in the same town and around the same magical bakeshop, but it didn’t have enough substance to hold my interest.
November 3, 2019
These three stories fit together greatly. The connection between the three stories was well done, and it was a cute read for the autumn season.
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington books for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
See full review on my blog, link in bio
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington books for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
See full review on my blog, link in bio
July 21, 2019
Three blended stories warm with romance celebrate the Halloween season in Moonbright, Maine. On the hottest day yet in Cincy, I felt a crisp breeze enwrap me as I raced through the pages, inhaled the scent of spiced lattes, savored the anise-sugar cookies from the Italian bakery, swooned as three couples fell deeply in love. I was transported to this small town rich with All Hallows’ Eve cheer, sexy coupling and laughter aplenty. A delightful read I did not want to end! 5/5
Pub Date 27 Aug 2019.
Thanks to the authors, Kensington Books and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#TheBakeshopAtPumpkinAndSpice #NetGalley
Pub Date 27 Aug 2019.
Thanks to the authors, Kensington Books and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#TheBakeshopAtPumpkinAndSpice #NetGalley
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October 3, 2020Dnf 12% - getting a bit porny already. If you pay attention to my ranting and updates, you know I hate sex in books. I find it so cringy to listen to (bc I only read audiobooks).
November 15, 2022
This was a cute novella compilation for the Autumn season. Even though it has been listed as the second in a series, you really will not miss out if you have not read the first book in the series (as I didn't).
I think the best of the novellas was the first novella and they progressively got more mediocre after that. They were still good and suitable for the season but I think that the first novella truly captured the magic, whimsy, and coziness of Fall.
Will I continue this novella series? Maybe. I could easily see myself picking one up for each season but I wouldn't go into them expecting anything more than an average yet comforting read.
I think the best of the novellas was the first novella and they progressively got more mediocre after that. They were still good and suitable for the season but I think that the first novella truly captured the magic, whimsy, and coziness of Fall.
Will I continue this novella series? Maybe. I could easily see myself picking one up for each season but I wouldn't go into them expecting anything more than an average yet comforting read.
August 23, 2019
4 - "You had me with that first smile..." Stars!
Review for ~ Bookshop at Pumpkin and Spice ~ by Donna Kauffman
I love a Donna Kauffman novella, they never feel like a shorter story, and you always get the feels, emotions and heart of each character. Bree and Caleb's story was no different, and its filled with yummy baking too.
"Be the magic…"
This novella reminded me a bit of the film Practical Magic, you know the part where Sandra Bullock sees her future husband for the first time, and literally cannot stay away from him after that first zing of awareness, and the feeling is mutual.
The Bellaluna women were a bit magical and mystical themselves…
One lives in Philly and is in town to help out extended family go on a trip of a lifetime, the other is rooted in the town and particularly Bellaluna’s Bakeshop, so how would they make a long term relationship work…
"I can’t predict the future… But I think we both know this feels like it could be a whole lot more than nothing…"
Like Bree’s cookies and cakes this story was seductively sweet, devoured too quickly, and left me with a smile on my face.
ARC generously provided by the author, via Netgalley in exchange for the above honest review.
Review for ~ Bookshop at Pumpkin and Spice ~ by Donna Kauffman
I love a Donna Kauffman novella, they never feel like a shorter story, and you always get the feels, emotions and heart of each character. Bree and Caleb's story was no different, and its filled with yummy baking too.
"Be the magic…"
This novella reminded me a bit of the film Practical Magic, you know the part where Sandra Bullock sees her future husband for the first time, and literally cannot stay away from him after that first zing of awareness, and the feeling is mutual.
The Bellaluna women were a bit magical and mystical themselves…
One lives in Philly and is in town to help out extended family go on a trip of a lifetime, the other is rooted in the town and particularly Bellaluna’s Bakeshop, so how would they make a long term relationship work…
"I can’t predict the future… But I think we both know this feels like it could be a whole lot more than nothing…"
Like Bree’s cookies and cakes this story was seductively sweet, devoured too quickly, and left me with a smile on my face.
ARC generously provided by the author, via Netgalley in exchange for the above honest review.
March 29, 2021
Muito feliz de finalmente ter lido esse livro. Uma leitura leve, quentinho no coração e muito outonal.
Esse livro tem três contos que se passam na mesma cidade: Moonbright, Maine. Cada um é protagonizado por uma mulher diferente, porém os contos compartilham alguns personagens e todos se passam em alguns momentos na "Bellaluna's Bakery" (queria muito poder ir nessa confeitaria).
Algumas coisas me incomodaram um pouquinho (principalmente a protagonista do segundo conto), mas de forma geral foi uma leitura bem agradável e que pretendo reler outras vezes.
Sigo desejando viver o clima outonal no Halloween (e durante o ano todo na verdade hehe).
Esse livro tem três contos que se passam na mesma cidade: Moonbright, Maine. Cada um é protagonizado por uma mulher diferente, porém os contos compartilham alguns personagens e todos se passam em alguns momentos na "Bellaluna's Bakery" (queria muito poder ir nessa confeitaria).
Algumas coisas me incomodaram um pouquinho (principalmente a protagonista do segundo conto), mas de forma geral foi uma leitura bem agradável e que pretendo reler outras vezes.
Sigo desejando viver o clima outonal no Halloween (e durante o ano todo na verdade hehe).
October 26, 2019
A collection of three cozy Halloween short stories with lots of romance and zero spooks. I could see all three of these stories being made into Hallmark movies. As you can guess by the title, there's also a heavy influence on food and how it can bring people together.
There's nothing groundbreaking here, but this book isn't trying to be. It made me feel warm and fuzzy and in the Halloween spirit. I read SO MANY horror novels around Halloween. It's nice to have something light and fluffy to break it up.
August 28, 2019
I enjoy these anthologies where the stories are written around a specific theme. All three of these stories take place in Moonbright, Maine, the Hallowe'en Capital of the U.S. They also have Italian Cookies play a role in the story, and of course they are all romances. This was an enjoyable book with two new authors to me. I enjoyed all three novellas, but liked Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles the best, perhaps because there were some secrets and angst involved in it.
I loved how there was a little bit of magic in each of these stories, but it did not overwhelm. These were sweet stories of love with each of the women being a bit shy, yet rather sassy when attraction begins. The banter between the two main characters in each story was funny and had me smiling. The supporting characters were also entertaining. With each story being a novella or short story, there was not a lot of time to develop characters, yet that did not seem to be an issue. Each story had me smiling as I watched the attraction grow between the characters. Yes, it was instalove and that is not my favourite trope, but it worked well with these three delightful stories.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Tiffany Morgan. This is the second book I have listened to with this narrator and she is enjoyable. She adds specific voices to the characters which helps with identifying who is speaking at the time, but the breathy voice she used for one of the characters began to grate on me after awhile. Other than that, the expression she used to dramatize the story was wonderful and I enjoyed her performance of this story. The publisher of this audiobook generously provided me with a copy upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I loved how there was a little bit of magic in each of these stories, but it did not overwhelm. These were sweet stories of love with each of the women being a bit shy, yet rather sassy when attraction begins. The banter between the two main characters in each story was funny and had me smiling. The supporting characters were also entertaining. With each story being a novella or short story, there was not a lot of time to develop characters, yet that did not seem to be an issue. Each story had me smiling as I watched the attraction grow between the characters. Yes, it was instalove and that is not my favourite trope, but it worked well with these three delightful stories.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Tiffany Morgan. This is the second book I have listened to with this narrator and she is enjoyable. She adds specific voices to the characters which helps with identifying who is speaking at the time, but the breathy voice she used for one of the characters began to grate on me after awhile. Other than that, the expression she used to dramatize the story was wonderful and I enjoyed her performance of this story. The publisher of this audiobook generously provided me with a copy upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
August 28, 2019
This was a lovely compilation of stories that brought the phrase happily ever after to life in the best possible way. Each tale has a story filled with the holiday spirit, warm characters and magical happenings. I loved the way each author weaved a sweet tale of romance and had magic jumping off the page and into my heart. My favorite of the tales was the story of Bellaluna's Bakeshop and how the young baker tried her hardest to bring her own magic to life. She so wanted to make her magic happen and worried that it never would. When a new man comes to town and has her magic working for the first time she isn't sure what to make of it. The two dance around the feelings that seem to come to life between them and it looks as if things may not work out. Dive in and see if the magic that has come alive between them brings a romance like no other to life. I will definitely be reading more from each of these authors!!!
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 17, 2020
Three lovely romance novellas set in a small town in Maine during Halloween. An enjoyable afternoon read that was pure romantic entertainment with just a small touch of magic.
November 12, 2021
I must confess I am not a fan of romance novels, but The Bakeshop at Pumpkin and Spice caught my eye because I love witchy stories set in small towns. I thought this one was a novel, but it’s actually three stories. The first one was too cheesy for my taste, and I almost gave up reading. But I kept on, and the two next stories were okay, though once again, romance books aren’t usually my thing, and the fact that a man and a woman talked about marriage and children the day after they met appears a little unrealistic to me. (I barely exaggerate here.)
September 1, 2019
Get lost in the charm of Moonbright, Maine this autumn as the leaves blow in the breeze, pumpkin pie's tantalizing scent tickles your nose and Halloween parades every year are what the town's people look forward to.
The cover of this book is very appealing, who can resist a bakeshop filled with autumn goodies?
This delightful trio of autumn stories will have you dreaming of romance,baked goods and fun times.
Pub Date 27 Aug 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
The cover of this book is very appealing, who can resist a bakeshop filled with autumn goodies?
This delightful trio of autumn stories will have you dreaming of romance,baked goods and fun times.
Pub Date 27 Aug 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 21, 2020
Three short stories to get you in the mood for fall. Halloween, magic, and love make this a good read. 3.5★s!
September 19, 2019
Review is for Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman:
I loved the magical element of this story. It didn't feel like a short story to me, but was just long enough. This was a cute novella featuring Bree and Caleb and some special baked desserts. I liked all the characters and am interested to see if the author makes a series off this bakery!
I didn't read the other two stories but may go back and read them in the future!
Edit to add: I finished the other 2 stories and loved them both! The magic in each one for this small town was a delight to read about!
I loved the magical element of this story. It didn't feel like a short story to me, but was just long enough. This was a cute novella featuring Bree and Caleb and some special baked desserts. I liked all the characters and am interested to see if the author makes a series off this bakery!
I didn't read the other two stories but may go back and read them in the future!
Edit to add: I finished the other 2 stories and loved them both! The magic in each one for this small town was a delight to read about!
November 15, 2021
This one was a little too cheesy for me. It is a collection of 3 story’s that are somewhat connected but not as intertwined as I would like. I would have preferred if this book was solely based on the last story and had more to it.
It’s cute that there are 3 cookie recipes included in the book but not a selling feature in my opinion.
It’s cute that there are 3 cookie recipes included in the book but not a selling feature in my opinion.
September 24, 2019
I wish the whole book was the first story. The other two were duds. Cute little junk food read.
October 15, 2020
I was duped...I duped myself.
October 16, 2021
I went into this with extremely low expectations and somehow they were still too high
September 23, 2019
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.
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.
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.
September 6, 2019
Love this cute book by Donna Kauffman! I loved the magical feel and the romance! But boy did it make me hungry for sweets!
Didn’t read the other two stories yet but i plan on it!
Update: i finished the last two stories and they all fit together well! I love how they all ended at the parade and how each romance played out!
Didn’t read the other two stories yet but i plan on it!
Update: i finished the last two stories and they all fit together well! I love how they all ended at the parade and how each romance played out!
August 27, 2019
The Bakeshop at Pumpkin and Spice is a great collection of three stories. There is a sparkle of magic in all of them that will leaving you believing in love and romance.
Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman is the opening book and dare I say my favorite. The setting is Bellaluna's Bakeshop. A special type of love is in the air and in the baked treats. I loved the well developed characters and story that left me believing in a magical happy ending.
In Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles, Cassandra is trying to get a date with her boss. There are some truly laugh out loud moments here. This story focuses heavily on the bakery treats which I loved. There is a lot of emotion in this story and I really enjoyed that!
Sweet on You by Kate Angell, was a fantastic story. Lara, the main character is in the bakeshop with her ex boyfriend after being dumped in the company of a lot of people. In enters the mayor and maybe things might be turning around? I loved how this story had several characters from the first two stories. This story wrapped up the trilogy very nicely .
I absolutely LOVED how these stories tied together while celebrating the town of Moonbright, Maine and all of the Halloween and fall festivities.
I highly recommend this wonderful book !
Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman is the opening book and dare I say my favorite. The setting is Bellaluna's Bakeshop. A special type of love is in the air and in the baked treats. I loved the well developed characters and story that left me believing in a magical happy ending.
In Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles, Cassandra is trying to get a date with her boss. There are some truly laugh out loud moments here. This story focuses heavily on the bakery treats which I loved. There is a lot of emotion in this story and I really enjoyed that!
Sweet on You by Kate Angell, was a fantastic story. Lara, the main character is in the bakeshop with her ex boyfriend after being dumped in the company of a lot of people. In enters the mayor and maybe things might be turning around? I loved how this story had several characters from the first two stories. This story wrapped up the trilogy very nicely .
I absolutely LOVED how these stories tied together while celebrating the town of Moonbright, Maine and all of the Halloween and fall festivities.
I highly recommend this wonderful book !
July 13, 2021
This year I've challenged myself to read a lot of new authors. This collection of three novellas is by three new-to-me writers and the idea sounded cute. I expect to not like everything a collection like this, but hope to find one author I like enough to try again.
Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman - This novella is based on a cute idea, but the execution was oh so predictable. And the way the romance was written made me cringe just a bit. Honestly, it's very hard to write an interesting story about two super nice, calm people. This one didn't work for me. 2 stars
Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles - Livelier than the first story with MCs who are less malleable and sweet, a bit sharper-tongued and more interesting. Warning - this story should have been last in the book, as it gives away the big "surprise" of the third story. And there's no real reason for it be second. They should have rearranged the order or cut one crucial sentence out of this entry. Do yourself a favor and read it last. 3 stars
Sweet on You by Kate Angell - Read this one second. It's a short but fun story with a crusty older lady who does some amusing name-calling. Not fantastic but entertaining enough. 2.5 stars
Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman - This novella is based on a cute idea, but the execution was oh so predictable. And the way the romance was written made me cringe just a bit. Honestly, it's very hard to write an interesting story about two super nice, calm people. This one didn't work for me. 2 stars
Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles - Livelier than the first story with MCs who are less malleable and sweet, a bit sharper-tongued and more interesting. Warning - this story should have been last in the book, as it gives away the big "surprise" of the third story. And there's no real reason for it be second. They should have rearranged the order or cut one crucial sentence out of this entry. Do yourself a favor and read it last. 3 stars
Sweet on You by Kate Angell - Read this one second. It's a short but fun story with a crusty older lady who does some amusing name-calling. Not fantastic but entertaining enough. 2.5 stars
August 25, 2019
This book was THE perfect start to my Fall season filled with everything I love about Halloween mixed with a bit of magic and romance! This book had 3 cozy romance stories each different from the last all surrounding the fabulous town of Moonbright and its little bakery Bellaluna's Bakeshop! I immediately fell in love with each character and the three stories and loved how they all entwined. A feel good happy read I would love to recommend this book to everyone! If you love romance and the fall season this is the perfect read! Loved it!!!!!!
October 17, 2019
The cover is the best part. The first two stories end way too abruptly and the last one was offensive and bad.
November 1, 2019
THE BAKESHOP AT PUMPKIN AND SPICE by Donna Kauffman, Kate Angell, & Allyson Charles happened to be what I needed at this time. I wanted a book that was Halloween-related - something a bit lighter than many that I've read this year, yet with a good plot, mostly likeable characters, a bit of romance, just enough suspense to want me to keep reading (that's where the "unlikeable characters" come in!), good writing. I got all of this in my latest read.
I liked that, although three different writers had created the contents of this book, together their stories composed a whole. There were enough connections (beyond the shared setting in the fictional town of Moonlight, Maine) that it felt like a novel, yet each story had different main characters. And yes, there were individual romances. "Moonlight" - name of the town - seems meant to imply both Magic and Matchmaking. I loved the idea of an annual Halloween parade that had been going on for decades, plus the connections of the Bakeshop to both of the aforementioned "M" designations. And it also provides three recipes, one at the end of each story, for the "magical" cookies - which I intend to photocopy, with intentions to bake eventually.
Note that I finished reading the book yesterday afternoon, a few hours before trick-or-treaters began to arrive! It's the only H-related book I read this year (last year I devoured 3 very witchy novels), but it was perfect for me. I didn't need a classic or any intense, hugely suspenseful tome - just something to pleasantly "otherwise-occupy" my mind for a while.
Another factor in my choosing to read THE BAKESHOP... was that I'd tired of trying to meet the rest of my challenges re the "Around the Year in 52 Books" Group here on FB. Great idea but it got tiresome for me when a few books that would've met a few challenges just didn't work out for me, and too much time was wasted once I realized that I had no desire to finish them. And it takes a while to figure out another book that would meet each of those challenges (without its being a 400
or 500+ page tome taking up additional days/weeks to finish), as well as a few days to acquire said volume. I'd gone for committing to all 52 challenges, not sure I would meet them but wanting to try - just ambitious and curious as to whether it would work for me. While I read often and fairly diversely, I am not nearly as fast a reader as those who can read something like 100 books in a year (& there are lots of these folks on GR!). Plus the rest of life just gets in the way. Maybe -or especially - I got bored with the process, tired of keeping such detailed track of each "challenge" rather than just listing a book on GR, maybe doing a review, sharing with FB friends what I enjoyed.
Glad I found THE BAKESHOP AT PUMPKIN AND SPICE to ease me back into a more relaxed literary life - reading what I want, when I want, based on what I am pretty sure I'll love; often "found" via visits to bookstores, books friends recommend, Bookmarks magazine, library book sales, FB reading groups (I belong to 3), and whatever other sources emerge in daily life. I'm already a few pages into the next book, and it's a memoir that I could barely wait to read until it finally came out in paperback!
I liked that, although three different writers had created the contents of this book, together their stories composed a whole. There were enough connections (beyond the shared setting in the fictional town of Moonlight, Maine) that it felt like a novel, yet each story had different main characters. And yes, there were individual romances. "Moonlight" - name of the town - seems meant to imply both Magic and Matchmaking. I loved the idea of an annual Halloween parade that had been going on for decades, plus the connections of the Bakeshop to both of the aforementioned "M" designations. And it also provides three recipes, one at the end of each story, for the "magical" cookies - which I intend to photocopy, with intentions to bake eventually.
Note that I finished reading the book yesterday afternoon, a few hours before trick-or-treaters began to arrive! It's the only H-related book I read this year (last year I devoured 3 very witchy novels), but it was perfect for me. I didn't need a classic or any intense, hugely suspenseful tome - just something to pleasantly "otherwise-occupy" my mind for a while.
Another factor in my choosing to read THE BAKESHOP... was that I'd tired of trying to meet the rest of my challenges re the "Around the Year in 52 Books" Group here on FB. Great idea but it got tiresome for me when a few books that would've met a few challenges just didn't work out for me, and too much time was wasted once I realized that I had no desire to finish them. And it takes a while to figure out another book that would meet each of those challenges (without its being a 400
or 500+ page tome taking up additional days/weeks to finish), as well as a few days to acquire said volume. I'd gone for committing to all 52 challenges, not sure I would meet them but wanting to try - just ambitious and curious as to whether it would work for me. While I read often and fairly diversely, I am not nearly as fast a reader as those who can read something like 100 books in a year (& there are lots of these folks on GR!). Plus the rest of life just gets in the way. Maybe -or especially - I got bored with the process, tired of keeping such detailed track of each "challenge" rather than just listing a book on GR, maybe doing a review, sharing with FB friends what I enjoyed.
Glad I found THE BAKESHOP AT PUMPKIN AND SPICE to ease me back into a more relaxed literary life - reading what I want, when I want, based on what I am pretty sure I'll love; often "found" via visits to bookstores, books friends recommend, Bookmarks magazine, library book sales, FB reading groups (I belong to 3), and whatever other sources emerge in daily life. I'm already a few pages into the next book, and it's a memoir that I could barely wait to read until it finally came out in paperback!
August 26, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I'm really happy to see a fall-themed book. We don't get enough of them. What a wonderful time for a romance. I know it's one of my favorites. What's also my favorite is anthologies. First, I'm able to finish the whole story pretty quickly, and second, I can often read a new author to me. This time there is no new authors but ones I really enjoy.
Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman
This one starts it off and I really enjoyed it. It let us know what the whole theme of the book was. It did a great job of setting up for the next two stories. Characters are good I only wish for more of a romantic feeling between these two. I needed more.
Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles
I love Allyson Charles books so this was a treat for me. I did think that Cassandra treated Chip pretty poorly but got where the author was going. She finally got her head on straight and figured out what she really wanted. I liked how much she enjoyed Halloween and went all out for it. One of my favorite things is to decorate for the holiday's so this talked to me. I only wish I could build a haunted house in my driveway.
Sweet On You by Kate Angell
The third and final story is by Kate Angell an author I really enjoy. This one is so well done you won't want it to end. I have to tell you Jake and Lara are up there for my favorite couple of the year. I just loved these two together. They worked perfectly together. I loved them so much that I want more of the town so I can visit with them.
Summary of the whole book
The book is worth buying. You'll love the fall-themed stories. It's full of wonderful characters and not all of them are the main characters. More than one of the stories leave you wanting more of their world. I will say that Angell's book was my top favorite. Her story was the best written. You could tell right off the bat how much she connected with them. Even after I was done I kept thinking about them. Made it hard on me to start something new.
I enjoyed both Charles and Kauffman's stories but will admit that Kauffman's was the hardest to get through. Her writing and I don't always match.
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ARC received for an honest review
I'm really happy to see a fall-themed book. We don't get enough of them. What a wonderful time for a romance. I know it's one of my favorites. What's also my favorite is anthologies. First, I'm able to finish the whole story pretty quickly, and second, I can often read a new author to me. This time there is no new authors but ones I really enjoy.
Sweet Magic by Donna Kauffman
This one starts it off and I really enjoyed it. It let us know what the whole theme of the book was. It did a great job of setting up for the next two stories. Characters are good I only wish for more of a romantic feeling between these two. I needed more.
Love Spells Disaster by Allyson Charles
I love Allyson Charles books so this was a treat for me. I did think that Cassandra treated Chip pretty poorly but got where the author was going. She finally got her head on straight and figured out what she really wanted. I liked how much she enjoyed Halloween and went all out for it. One of my favorite things is to decorate for the holiday's so this talked to me. I only wish I could build a haunted house in my driveway.
Sweet On You by Kate Angell
The third and final story is by Kate Angell an author I really enjoy. This one is so well done you won't want it to end. I have to tell you Jake and Lara are up there for my favorite couple of the year. I just loved these two together. They worked perfectly together. I loved them so much that I want more of the town so I can visit with them.
Summary of the whole book
The book is worth buying. You'll love the fall-themed stories. It's full of wonderful characters and not all of them are the main characters. More than one of the stories leave you wanting more of their world. I will say that Angell's book was my top favorite. Her story was the best written. You could tell right off the bat how much she connected with them. Even after I was done I kept thinking about them. Made it hard on me to start something new.
I enjoyed both Charles and Kauffman's stories but will admit that Kauffman's was the hardest to get through. Her writing and I don't always match.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
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ARC received for an honest review
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