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Hopeless Romantics #3
The Ingredients of You and Me
From the USA TODAY bestselling author of the “heartwarming and refreshingly sweet” (Lauren Layne, New York Times bestselling author) On the Corner of Love and Hate comes a story about a baker who takes her chances on a new town...and an old love.
After selling her famous bakery back in New York, Parker Adams visits Hope Lake, Pennsylvania, to figure out her next steps. And soon she’s wondering why she ever loved city life in the first place. Between the Golden Girls—the senior women who hold court—and Nick Arthur, her equally infuriating and charming former flame, Parker finds a community eager to help her get her mojo back.
But even though Hope Lake gives her the fresh start she’s been looking for, Parker discovers that it’s not so easy to start over again with Nick. Their chemistry is undeniable, but since Nick is a freshly taken man, Parker is determined to keep things platonic. With a recipe for disaster looming, Parker must cook up a new scheme, figuring out how to keep everything she’s come to love before she loses it all.
Perfect for fans of Amy E. Reichert and Jenny Colgan, The Ingredients of You and Me is a scrumptious romantic comedy that lets you have your cake and eat it too.
After selling her famous bakery back in New York, Parker Adams visits Hope Lake, Pennsylvania, to figure out her next steps. And soon she’s wondering why she ever loved city life in the first place. Between the Golden Girls—the senior women who hold court—and Nick Arthur, her equally infuriating and charming former flame, Parker finds a community eager to help her get her mojo back.
But even though Hope Lake gives her the fresh start she’s been looking for, Parker discovers that it’s not so easy to start over again with Nick. Their chemistry is undeniable, but since Nick is a freshly taken man, Parker is determined to keep things platonic. With a recipe for disaster looming, Parker must cook up a new scheme, figuring out how to keep everything she’s come to love before she loses it all.
Perfect for fans of Amy E. Reichert and Jenny Colgan, The Ingredients of You and Me is a scrumptious romantic comedy that lets you have your cake and eat it too.
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2020
About the author
Nina Bocci
8 books636 followersNina Bocci is a novelist, publicist, eternal optimist, unabashed lipgloss enthusiast, constant apologist, and a hopeless romanticist. She has too many college degrees that she’s not using, and a Lego addiction that she blames on her son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
April 27, 2020
1 cup romance.
1 cup friendship.
1 heaping teaspoon of charm.
A generous sprinkling of humor.
A sweet story filled with so much whimsy and heart. The perfect small town cozy romance, packed with lovable colorful characters and a darling setting. Parker is ready for a new chapter in her life so she decides to sell her successful NYC bakery and set out in a new direction. The problem is she’s not quite sure what her next chapter looks like and it appears as though she may have lost her baking mojo as well. When her BFF hears what is going on she invites her to come stay with her in the small town of Hope Lake. Parker knows a change of setting will probably do her good, but going to Hope Lake also means she will run into her ex flame Nick (a flame nobody knows about). What will make it even more awkward is that Nick completely ghosted her and it appears as though he is no longer single. But Parker decides the change of scenery is worth it and packs her bags for an extended visit. What follows is a fun story of awkward moments, golden girls, unsolicited advice, recipes, YouTube, friendship, a new business, chemistry, and love.
This is the third book in this delightful series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. Parker is a relatable and likable character and you cannot help but put yourself in her position. I cringed and felt awkward right along with her as she navigated some of the situations in this book. One of the best parts of this book were the friendships. Not only Parker’s friendship with Charlotte and Emma, but also Parker’s relationship with the Golden girls. The golden girls were hilarious a group of senior ladies who have a lot of personality and even more heart. The romance in the story was very tricky. There was obvious attraction between Parker and Nick, but Nick had a girlfriend? Wasn’t sure how that was going to be resolved, but I was happy with the solution. The icing on the cake of this book was well, all the cake! These ladies could bake and I was craving sweets throughout the entire book. A sweet satisfying story in more ways than one.
This book in emojis 🥧 🧁 🍰 ☕️
*** Big thank you to Gallery for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
May 20, 2020
3 stars
I love Nina Bocci and her writing. I liked this book, I would even say I liked it a lot at times. I enjoyed reading about the heroine and her journey finding out what she wanted to do with her life and the Golden Girls was the absolute best thing about this book. Unfortunately the hero just really let me down time after time. I wanted to love him, but I just didn't... and when the romance lets you down in a romance novel, well... it makes a book that could have been great just okay for you. I'm sad this wasn't a favorite for me, but I'm looking forward to reading more of Bocci's books in the future.
I love Nina Bocci and her writing. I liked this book, I would even say I liked it a lot at times. I enjoyed reading about the heroine and her journey finding out what she wanted to do with her life and the Golden Girls was the absolute best thing about this book. Unfortunately the hero just really let me down time after time. I wanted to love him, but I just didn't... and when the romance lets you down in a romance novel, well... it makes a book that could have been great just okay for you. I'm sad this wasn't a favorite for me, but I'm looking forward to reading more of Bocci's books in the future.
May 19, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
“Mancini, you’re the only person I know who answers a question without giving a lot of answers.” She shrugged. “It’s a gift.”
I’m not even sure the wildlife outside my lake house would eat the stuff I’ve been baking lately… you wouldn’t want it even if you were starving. I tried tossing a couple scones that I had made this morning out to the squirrels. I think I might have concussed one of them.
What, is there some sort of sophisticated spy network around town that reports through a switchboard? My God, you guys are quick on the gossip…
“I mean, I’m a bit old for the YouTubes, right? I’m almost seventy.” I leveled her with a disbelievingly look. “Okay, seventy plus twelve,” she sighed.
You did something stupid. We don’t give up on people for doing that. We wouldn’t have anyone left if it was a one-strike system.
My Review:
This was my third time indulging myself in the clever levity of Nina Bocci and I am enamored with her sharp wit and uniquely quirky and dynamic characters with my pet being the indomitable Mrs. Mancini, my favorite octogenarian. I want to be Mrs. Mancini when I grow up. The storylines were entertaining yet realistic and relatable, the characters were infuriating at times yet likable and well-meaning, and the writing was crisp, witty, and divinely amusing. Creating a snarky message delivery system through baked goods and naming the bakery Delicious and Vicious was nothing short of ingenious. I declare myself one of Nina Bocci’s most devoted acolytes.
“Mancini, you’re the only person I know who answers a question without giving a lot of answers.” She shrugged. “It’s a gift.”
I’m not even sure the wildlife outside my lake house would eat the stuff I’ve been baking lately… you wouldn’t want it even if you were starving. I tried tossing a couple scones that I had made this morning out to the squirrels. I think I might have concussed one of them.
What, is there some sort of sophisticated spy network around town that reports through a switchboard? My God, you guys are quick on the gossip…
“I mean, I’m a bit old for the YouTubes, right? I’m almost seventy.” I leveled her with a disbelievingly look. “Okay, seventy plus twelve,” she sighed.
You did something stupid. We don’t give up on people for doing that. We wouldn’t have anyone left if it was a one-strike system.
My Review:
This was my third time indulging myself in the clever levity of Nina Bocci and I am enamored with her sharp wit and uniquely quirky and dynamic characters with my pet being the indomitable Mrs. Mancini, my favorite octogenarian. I want to be Mrs. Mancini when I grow up. The storylines were entertaining yet realistic and relatable, the characters were infuriating at times yet likable and well-meaning, and the writing was crisp, witty, and divinely amusing. Creating a snarky message delivery system through baked goods and naming the bakery Delicious and Vicious was nothing short of ingenious. I declare myself one of Nina Bocci’s most devoted acolytes.
May 10, 2020
Sweet read. Wanted more love....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think we’ve all experienced the drudgery of a job that we grew to dislike. The author takes us down that path with a small business owner who has outgrown the direction her business has taken.
After selling her business she decides to get away from it all and head back home to visit her dearest friend and take an R&R while she figures out her life.
The author gives us a nice twist when we discover this isn’t the first time she’s been back home. There’s been a man in her life that she truly cares for and that’s where everything got interesting.
I just love a story about small town. We get to meet a crazy group of senior citizens and many other stand-up characters in this group. But I was able to connect with the main character, Parker, because she feels so lost.
Her main passion feels like it’s just out of reach. She struggling to find her way. I think we’ve all been in that position a time or two in our life.
Then when she finds herself around Nick, the guy she’s crushing on for so long, it doesn’t seem to help matters. Especially since he has someone else. With his heart on his sleeve they have a lot of work to do to find their way.
Bocci continues to serve us a beautiful women’s fiction story with fun characters and a taste of romance. A wonderful afternoon read that is light and airy with the aroma of romance in the air.
We have to travel a long way in this book to come out with the happily ever after. I really wish we had more of the happy part once they found their way. But the inbetween is super sweet, a wee bit wacky, and a delightful journey to finding where we need to be in life when our passions find a way.
To note: This is part of a series. I did not read the other books, and yes, it would have helped identify a lot of the story pieces, but it was not prohibitive for me.
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-ingredie...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think we’ve all experienced the drudgery of a job that we grew to dislike. The author takes us down that path with a small business owner who has outgrown the direction her business has taken.
After selling her business she decides to get away from it all and head back home to visit her dearest friend and take an R&R while she figures out her life.
The author gives us a nice twist when we discover this isn’t the first time she’s been back home. There’s been a man in her life that she truly cares for and that’s where everything got interesting.
I just love a story about small town. We get to meet a crazy group of senior citizens and many other stand-up characters in this group. But I was able to connect with the main character, Parker, because she feels so lost.
Her main passion feels like it’s just out of reach. She struggling to find her way. I think we’ve all been in that position a time or two in our life.
Then when she finds herself around Nick, the guy she’s crushing on for so long, it doesn’t seem to help matters. Especially since he has someone else. With his heart on his sleeve they have a lot of work to do to find their way.
Bocci continues to serve us a beautiful women’s fiction story with fun characters and a taste of romance. A wonderful afternoon read that is light and airy with the aroma of romance in the air.
We have to travel a long way in this book to come out with the happily ever after. I really wish we had more of the happy part once they found their way. But the inbetween is super sweet, a wee bit wacky, and a delightful journey to finding where we need to be in life when our passions find a way.
To note: This is part of a series. I did not read the other books, and yes, it would have helped identify a lot of the story pieces, but it was not prohibitive for me.
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-ingredie...
May 3, 2020
I struggled a bit with the previous book that I read from Nina, but I loved this cover and synopsis and was so eager to get to it. Especially with all of the reviews that say it’s funny and fluffy.
I liked Parker well enough. I enjoyed her creativity and drive. Nick was bland and his hot and cold got really old, really fast. The friend group was nice, but the stand out character was definitely Mancini.
Plot wise, it was so very dry. Loads of telling, not showing, loads of scenes with Parker brushing off Nick wanting to explain only to spend the next few pages wondering why he won’t explain, and the killer for me was no chemistry. I just didn’t understand any connection these two claimed to have. And I know it sounds so petty, but they never said ILY and that really bothered me.
Overall, I’m clearly missing something that everyone else is seeing and that bums me out. I’m not sure if I’ll be giving any of Nina’s future books a chance.
**Huge thanks to Gallery Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Parker well enough. I enjoyed her creativity and drive. Nick was bland and his hot and cold got really old, really fast. The friend group was nice, but the stand out character was definitely Mancini.
Plot wise, it was so very dry. Loads of telling, not showing, loads of scenes with Parker brushing off Nick wanting to explain only to spend the next few pages wondering why he won’t explain, and the killer for me was no chemistry. I just didn’t understand any connection these two claimed to have. And I know it sounds so petty, but they never said ILY and that really bothered me.
Overall, I’m clearly missing something that everyone else is seeing and that bums me out. I’m not sure if I’ll be giving any of Nina’s future books a chance.
**Huge thanks to Gallery Books for providing the arc free of charge**
May 1, 2020
Read this! It’s okay if you haven’t read about any of the Hope Lake series,because it doesn’t matter you will grab them and read them all anyway I promise (Meet Me on Love Lane and On the Corner of Love and Hate).
The story is centered around Parker Adams, a Food Network and Youtube Star who also owns a famous bakery in NY called Delicious and Vicious, where you can send revenge cakes to hated exes or old bosses. An opportunity to sell her business left her losing her mojo unable to bake.
Parker needed a fresh start and rents a place in Hope Lake, PA where her friends and the community is so eager to get her patched back up in all matters of baking and the heart!
Loved the Golden Girls of Hope Lake and their sweet meddling ways and a second chance love with an old flame.
I loved this book and enjoyed visiting old friends and new in Hope Lake. Nina Bocci’s characters are full of heart and authenticity. This contemporary romance was a great read that touches upon self-discovery, honesty, forgiveness and second chances.
Pick this up for an amazing feel good story!!
The story is centered around Parker Adams, a Food Network and Youtube Star who also owns a famous bakery in NY called Delicious and Vicious, where you can send revenge cakes to hated exes or old bosses. An opportunity to sell her business left her losing her mojo unable to bake.
Parker needed a fresh start and rents a place in Hope Lake, PA where her friends and the community is so eager to get her patched back up in all matters of baking and the heart!
Loved the Golden Girls of Hope Lake and their sweet meddling ways and a second chance love with an old flame.
I loved this book and enjoyed visiting old friends and new in Hope Lake. Nina Bocci’s characters are full of heart and authenticity. This contemporary romance was a great read that touches upon self-discovery, honesty, forgiveness and second chances.
Pick this up for an amazing feel good story!!
April 30, 2020
4 1/2 Yummy Stars!!
I had high expectations for The Ingredients of You and Me. Nick was always one of my favorite characters and I couldn't wait to see what Ms. Bocci had in store for him in this book. I didn't see it coming....that's for sure...but it was a good and somewhat angsty read and I ate it up.
Nick and Parker had carried on a clandestine relationship and then he "ghosted" her. Heartbroken, Parker has made some major life changes and is struggling to get her baking mojo back. Yes, she is a pastry chef....a very good one. However, she currently can't bake a cookie to save her life. So, she takes a trip to visit her good friend, Charlotte in Hope Lake. While there, she becomes entrenched in a project with some of the town's older ladies, she explores some new business opportunities, she tries to rediscover her love of baking and she sees Nick again...but that is very complicated. If you want to know more, you'll have to read the book. I won't give away any spoilers here...and trust me, you don't want me to. This book is such a "sweet treat" that you'll want to read it for yourself!
Thank you to NetGalley, Gallery Books and Nina Bocci for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I had high expectations for The Ingredients of You and Me. Nick was always one of my favorite characters and I couldn't wait to see what Ms. Bocci had in store for him in this book. I didn't see it coming....that's for sure...but it was a good and somewhat angsty read and I ate it up.
Nick and Parker had carried on a clandestine relationship and then he "ghosted" her. Heartbroken, Parker has made some major life changes and is struggling to get her baking mojo back. Yes, she is a pastry chef....a very good one. However, she currently can't bake a cookie to save her life. So, she takes a trip to visit her good friend, Charlotte in Hope Lake. While there, she becomes entrenched in a project with some of the town's older ladies, she explores some new business opportunities, she tries to rediscover her love of baking and she sees Nick again...but that is very complicated. If you want to know more, you'll have to read the book. I won't give away any spoilers here...and trust me, you don't want me to. This book is such a "sweet treat" that you'll want to read it for yourself!
Thank you to NetGalley, Gallery Books and Nina Bocci for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 19, 2020
I loved being back in Hope Lake! The residents are so fun and quirky and bring such a smile to my face. The Ingredients of You and Me is the 3rd book in the Hopeless Romantics series, but can be read as a standalone. I do recommend reading the books in order though, since characters from previous books appear and that's where we first meet Nick and Parker.
I really loved Parker's evolution in this book. Yes, it's a romance, but it was also about Parker finding her way and really putting herself first. Her relationship with Mancini was hilarious and was truly a highlight of the book. Mancini stole the show any time she was on the page and I absolutely loved all the Golden Girls. I liked Nick, but sadly I didn't love him. I think I will always love cinnamon roll Henry best.;) It took me a bit to warm up to Nick thanks to his hot and cold behavior and his very, very poor choices. I was invested in finding out what happened between him and Parker though and was always rooting for them to find their way back to each other. I would have liked a little less OW drama and a bit more groveling, but the epilogue left me with a smile on my face and a happy heart. I especially appreciated that things were left in a way that felt true to the characters and didn't force things prematurely.
Catching up with all the previous Hopeless Romantics couples and characters was wonderful and I loved getting little glimpses into their happily ever afters. The recipes included at the end were such a fun treat too and I'm excited to try one soon. I'm thinking the Hummingbird cake. ;)
I really loved Parker's evolution in this book. Yes, it's a romance, but it was also about Parker finding her way and really putting herself first. Her relationship with Mancini was hilarious and was truly a highlight of the book. Mancini stole the show any time she was on the page and I absolutely loved all the Golden Girls. I liked Nick, but sadly I didn't love him. I think I will always love cinnamon roll Henry best.;) It took me a bit to warm up to Nick thanks to his hot and cold behavior and his very, very poor choices. I was invested in finding out what happened between him and Parker though and was always rooting for them to find their way back to each other. I would have liked a little less OW drama and a bit more groveling, but the epilogue left me with a smile on my face and a happy heart. I especially appreciated that things were left in a way that felt true to the characters and didn't force things prematurely.
Catching up with all the previous Hopeless Romantics couples and characters was wonderful and I loved getting little glimpses into their happily ever afters. The recipes included at the end were such a fun treat too and I'm excited to try one soon. I'm thinking the Hummingbird cake. ;)
July 15, 2020
*this book was all over the place
*I really wanted to finish this series, but I shouldn't bother
*so hero ghosted the heroine I was waiting for the reason for it and I think we never got it
*no chemistry
*wishy washy characters
*I really wanted to finish this series, but I shouldn't bother
*so hero ghosted the heroine I was waiting for the reason for it and I think we never got it
*no chemistry
*wishy washy characters
April 21, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up!
I’ve had the pleasure of reading and LOVING the first two stories in the Hopeless Romantics series by Nina Bocci (On the Corner of Love and Hate and Meet Me on Love Lane), so when I heard that a book three was coming, you can imagine that I jumped at the first opportunity to read it. Now, if you haven’t had the chance to read the first two books in the series, don’t worry, you can still read and enjoy The Ingredients of You and Me as a standalone.
Parker Powell was baker extraordinaire and owner of the upscale bakery Delicious and Vicious in bustling NYC. Unlike most bakeries, D&V was known for delivering baked goods with any message you wish, so cheating husbands could get “I hope it falls off” cupcakes and bosses can get 2 week notice cakes.
In search of a new adventure and to move past her current “baker’s block’, Parker sells D&V and heads to the small town of Hope Lake where her friends currently reside. Unfortunately, she also runs into Nick, the guy from their friend group that she secretly dated for months who ended up ignoring her and leaving her to pick up the pieces…and he’s not single.
This heartwarming story was more than just a contemporary romance. This story was about friendship (loved the entire storyline of Parker helping the grandma’s in town reconnect with baking), self discovery, honesty, and forgiveness. Nina Bocci does an incredible job of creating truly authentic characters that come to life on the pages. There’s none of the love at first sight or unrealistic romance. The relationships are messy and full of miscommunication and everything else that is a part of everyday life (and I don’t just mean the relationship between Parker and Nick).
Overall, if you’re looking for a laugh out loud, feel-good story that also includes lots of baking then definitely pick this one up!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours for the tour invite and to Gallery Books for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
I’ve had the pleasure of reading and LOVING the first two stories in the Hopeless Romantics series by Nina Bocci (On the Corner of Love and Hate and Meet Me on Love Lane), so when I heard that a book three was coming, you can imagine that I jumped at the first opportunity to read it. Now, if you haven’t had the chance to read the first two books in the series, don’t worry, you can still read and enjoy The Ingredients of You and Me as a standalone.
Parker Powell was baker extraordinaire and owner of the upscale bakery Delicious and Vicious in bustling NYC. Unlike most bakeries, D&V was known for delivering baked goods with any message you wish, so cheating husbands could get “I hope it falls off” cupcakes and bosses can get 2 week notice cakes.
In search of a new adventure and to move past her current “baker’s block’, Parker sells D&V and heads to the small town of Hope Lake where her friends currently reside. Unfortunately, she also runs into Nick, the guy from their friend group that she secretly dated for months who ended up ignoring her and leaving her to pick up the pieces…and he’s not single.
This heartwarming story was more than just a contemporary romance. This story was about friendship (loved the entire storyline of Parker helping the grandma’s in town reconnect with baking), self discovery, honesty, and forgiveness. Nina Bocci does an incredible job of creating truly authentic characters that come to life on the pages. There’s none of the love at first sight or unrealistic romance. The relationships are messy and full of miscommunication and everything else that is a part of everyday life (and I don’t just mean the relationship between Parker and Nick).
Overall, if you’re looking for a laugh out loud, feel-good story that also includes lots of baking then definitely pick this one up!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours for the tour invite and to Gallery Books for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
May 6, 2020
Every now and then, I need to read a book like The Ingredients of You and Me. It is the third in the Hopeless Romantics series and I hadn’t read the first two – which was not essential as this book stands nicely on its own. This is not my normal genre but these are not normal times.
Parker is a successful baker in Brooklyn, NY and a bit of a celebrity having made appearances on several Food Network competitions and also has a popular YouTube channel. She’s burnt out from working all the time and was recently burned by her last boyfriend. She accepts a “too good to refuse” offer to sell her business (the cleverly named Delicious and Vicious Bakery) and the sale included all her recipes. Seeking to recharge, develop new recipes, and figure out Phase 2 of her life, Parker decides to head to Hope Lake a small touristy town two hours away in Pennsylvania, home of her best friend Charlotte. And the home of her ex, Nick.
This book reads like a Hallmark Channel movie. We meet a group of incredibly endearing characters including a group of “Golden Girls” who encourage and inspire Parker. We also meet Nick’s new girlfriend– the seemingly perfect Jillian.
No surprises here – just lots of sweetness (and some interesting dessert receipts to boot!) If you want something more filling, this isn’t the book for you but a cute, cozy, feel-good book can do wonders if you are like me and have been reading much heavier books lately.
Many thanks to Goodreads, Gallery Books and Nina Bocci for a digital copy of The Ingredients of You and Me.
Review posted at MicheleReader.com.
Parker is a successful baker in Brooklyn, NY and a bit of a celebrity having made appearances on several Food Network competitions and also has a popular YouTube channel. She’s burnt out from working all the time and was recently burned by her last boyfriend. She accepts a “too good to refuse” offer to sell her business (the cleverly named Delicious and Vicious Bakery) and the sale included all her recipes. Seeking to recharge, develop new recipes, and figure out Phase 2 of her life, Parker decides to head to Hope Lake a small touristy town two hours away in Pennsylvania, home of her best friend Charlotte. And the home of her ex, Nick.
This book reads like a Hallmark Channel movie. We meet a group of incredibly endearing characters including a group of “Golden Girls” who encourage and inspire Parker. We also meet Nick’s new girlfriend– the seemingly perfect Jillian.
No surprises here – just lots of sweetness (and some interesting dessert receipts to boot!) If you want something more filling, this isn’t the book for you but a cute, cozy, feel-good book can do wonders if you are like me and have been reading much heavier books lately.
Many thanks to Goodreads, Gallery Books and Nina Bocci for a digital copy of The Ingredients of You and Me.
Review posted at MicheleReader.com.
July 23, 2020
I’m going to be straight with you guys. I did not like the romance in this book. BUT, that doesn’t mean I didn’t overall enjoy reading it. The third book in this series belongs to Parker, who we were introduced to as Charlotte’s best friend from New York in the previous book. In the beginning of this book we see her selling her wildly popular bakery in New York because she wanted to start down a new path in life. She winds up heading to Hope Lake to try and find her mojo again and when she arrives, we find out that she had previously been in a secret relationship with Nick (part of the friend group with Emma, Cooper, and Henry) that had since ended for a reason we don’t find out about until later.
I remember being excited about getting to learn more about Nick in the previous two books because he seemed like he’d be one of those mischievous types that would be fun to read about. I felt like we didn’t get any of that though??????????? Like I didn’t *feel* their relationship or even any kind of connection AT ALL. It was super weird. I feel bad even typing that because I loved the first two books (especially #2) and I love the characters individually, ESPECIALLY the ladies. This one just didn’t do it for me, unfortunately.
Huge thanks to Edelweiss and Gallery Books for allowing me to read and eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I remember being excited about getting to learn more about Nick in the previous two books because he seemed like he’d be one of those mischievous types that would be fun to read about. I felt like we didn’t get any of that though??????????? Like I didn’t *feel* their relationship or even any kind of connection AT ALL. It was super weird. I feel bad even typing that because I loved the first two books (especially #2) and I love the characters individually, ESPECIALLY the ladies. This one just didn’t do it for me, unfortunately.
Huge thanks to Edelweiss and Gallery Books for allowing me to read and eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 4, 2020
4.5 Stars An adorable, small town, slow burn, second chance romance.
SWEET! This one is a second chance romance focus on Parker and Nick. Parker is a pastry chef who lost her cooking mojo. After selling her successful bakery in NY she decided to visit a friend in Hope Lake to figure out what the future holds. Soon, Parker realized she is falling in love with the small town and the people in it, one particular special person her old flame Nick Arthur. While Parker begins to get her baking mojo back, she wasn’t so lucky in the romance department. Parker and Nick have a history that ended abruptly. Nick disappeared and left Parker heartbroken. Now Parker can escape seeing Nick in this small town. The chemistry and attraction are still very much present, but Nick is unfortunately taken. They settled for a platonic friendly relationship. When Parker finally had a chance to rekindle their romance, trouble looming with her former bakery in NY. Parker has to find a way to balance it all, or risk losing her business and her love. I adore Parker – this story is almost about her journey. I feel that Nick did not have a good enough reason for ghosting and broken her heart back then. Nick finally came to his sense and realized Parker is the one. Nick is not as swoony of a hero as I would have like but he is sweet though 😊 Overall, this was such a sweet, fun, heartwarming, feelgood small-town romance. It’s also about friendship, self-discover, forgiveness, and new beginning.
SWEET! This one is a second chance romance focus on Parker and Nick. Parker is a pastry chef who lost her cooking mojo. After selling her successful bakery in NY she decided to visit a friend in Hope Lake to figure out what the future holds. Soon, Parker realized she is falling in love with the small town and the people in it, one particular special person her old flame Nick Arthur. While Parker begins to get her baking mojo back, she wasn’t so lucky in the romance department. Parker and Nick have a history that ended abruptly. Nick disappeared and left Parker heartbroken. Now Parker can escape seeing Nick in this small town. The chemistry and attraction are still very much present, but Nick is unfortunately taken. They settled for a platonic friendly relationship. When Parker finally had a chance to rekindle their romance, trouble looming with her former bakery in NY. Parker has to find a way to balance it all, or risk losing her business and her love. I adore Parker – this story is almost about her journey. I feel that Nick did not have a good enough reason for ghosting and broken her heart back then. Nick finally came to his sense and realized Parker is the one. Nick is not as swoony of a hero as I would have like but he is sweet though 😊 Overall, this was such a sweet, fun, heartwarming, feelgood small-town romance. It’s also about friendship, self-discover, forgiveness, and new beginning.
April 27, 2020
The Ingredients of You and Me is the third book in Nina Bocci’s Hopeless Romantics series, and it features Parker and Nick who make a connection in the previous installment.
Parker is a spunky New Yorker who has been on a business high with her successful bakery, but the pressure and long hours have gotten to her. She realizes she wants more out of life than being a work alcoholic. Nick may or may not have been a part of the reason she wants to have more free time.
They had a secret long-distance relationship for a few months. Why secret? Well, the town of Hope Lake is a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business. Parker didn’t want their friends to get their hopes up about her and Nick in case it didn’t work out.
Fast-forward to Parker being confused at being ghosted by Nick. They’ve not seen or spoken in a couple of months and now she’s in Hope Lake trying to get her baking mojo back after selling her bakery. She’s not sure if she’s excited at the thought of running into him or terrified at the thought.
So they have some issues to work through if they want to at least be friendly and they do because they will keep running into each other since they have the same circle of friends in Hope Lake including the Golden Girls. The group of older women who basically run the town and they fawn over Nick. Parker becomes really close to the group of women and gives them the nickname the Golden Girls after being at one of their monthly meetings.
The ladies try to help Parker with her baking block and ask for her help to translate some old family recipes. Parker slowly gets her baking skills back as she works through the recipes. She falls in love with the Golden Girls and reconnects with her bestie Charolette while in Hope Lake. Parker starts to wonder if she should make the small town her new home like others before her. The big key element to her dilemma is Nick. Can they be just friends?
The Ingredients of You and Me is a slow burn second chance romance and an all-around feel-good story about friendship and community. I have a feeling since Parker and Nick are the last in the group of friends to find their HEA, and there is no hint at another character needing closure, this may be the last book in the series. This is a little sad but also could be a good thing since the book wrapped up everything nicely and it felt like an organic ending to this group of friends and their small town.
Parker is a spunky New Yorker who has been on a business high with her successful bakery, but the pressure and long hours have gotten to her. She realizes she wants more out of life than being a work alcoholic. Nick may or may not have been a part of the reason she wants to have more free time.
They had a secret long-distance relationship for a few months. Why secret? Well, the town of Hope Lake is a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business. Parker didn’t want their friends to get their hopes up about her and Nick in case it didn’t work out.
Fast-forward to Parker being confused at being ghosted by Nick. They’ve not seen or spoken in a couple of months and now she’s in Hope Lake trying to get her baking mojo back after selling her bakery. She’s not sure if she’s excited at the thought of running into him or terrified at the thought.
So they have some issues to work through if they want to at least be friendly and they do because they will keep running into each other since they have the same circle of friends in Hope Lake including the Golden Girls. The group of older women who basically run the town and they fawn over Nick. Parker becomes really close to the group of women and gives them the nickname the Golden Girls after being at one of their monthly meetings.
The ladies try to help Parker with her baking block and ask for her help to translate some old family recipes. Parker slowly gets her baking skills back as she works through the recipes. She falls in love with the Golden Girls and reconnects with her bestie Charolette while in Hope Lake. Parker starts to wonder if she should make the small town her new home like others before her. The big key element to her dilemma is Nick. Can they be just friends?
The Ingredients of You and Me is a slow burn second chance romance and an all-around feel-good story about friendship and community. I have a feeling since Parker and Nick are the last in the group of friends to find their HEA, and there is no hint at another character needing closure, this may be the last book in the series. This is a little sad but also could be a good thing since the book wrapped up everything nicely and it felt like an organic ending to this group of friends and their small town.
April 4, 2020
The Ingredients of You and Me is the embodiment of a sweet, small town romance. The kind the makes you wish that you too could move to a small town to befriend sweet, eccentric old ladies and open your own little business. It’s the story of Parker, a successful but burned out NYC baker, who decides to sell her bakery and move to a small town called Hope Lake where her best friend lives while she figures out her next steps. Of course, she runs into Nick, a guy she was secretly seeing during the summer who ended up ghosting her, and the feelings come rushing back.
This book was more than a romance novel - it was also a heartwarming tale of friendship and discovering who you are. And lots and lots of baking! Parker and Nick had to work through a lot of poor communication that ended their relationship before they finally got back together. Fellow slow burn fans will definitely enjoy the pacing of this book.
I blazed through this book - it was a light, heartwarming read and I will definitely be going back to read the first 2 books in the series.
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and the publisher for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was more than a romance novel - it was also a heartwarming tale of friendship and discovering who you are. And lots and lots of baking! Parker and Nick had to work through a lot of poor communication that ended their relationship before they finally got back together. Fellow slow burn fans will definitely enjoy the pacing of this book.
I blazed through this book - it was a light, heartwarming read and I will definitely be going back to read the first 2 books in the series.
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and the publisher for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2020
The Ingredients of You and Me takes us back for a third time to the adorable town of Hope Lake, this time with a focus on Parker, the fun-loving baker friend of Charlotte, who first appeared in Meet Me on Love Lane. Parker has decided to sell her successful New York bakery and spend some time in Hope Lake. At the same time, she hopes to find out what went wrong with Nick, one of Charlotte's childhood friends. I loved this- it was the fluffy rom com I needed during this social distancing time. I look forward to what Nina Bocci releases in the future.
I received an advance reader copy of this title from the publisher.
I received an advance reader copy of this title from the publisher.
June 27, 2020
I received this Arc from the publisher and Netgalley for my honest review. I picked this book because the story seemed promising. That and I loved the cover of the book. My problem was that I couldn’t connect with the two main characters. I didn’t get the reason why they liked each other since I didn’t like either of them. It was too much push and pull relationship when he was with someone else. I didn’t care for that. And don’t get me started with the ghosting. Ew why would anyone find that attractive? The good part of the book was the grannies and friends. They were awesome and funny!
April 23, 2020
Oh wow! I was up until 2:30 finishing this book. The Ingredients of You and Me is fantastic. Charlotte and Henry was my favorite from Meet Me on Love Lane, but nope...I LOVED Nick and Parker!!
June 8, 2020
I loved this book! Author Nina Bocci brings another wonderful sweet story full of humor and self discovery.
Memorable characters and a fast read.
Memorable characters and a fast read.
May 5, 2020
In this third Hopeless Romantics book, Parker Adams heads to Hope Lake to figure out what she wants to do next. She just sold an incredibly successful bakery in New York City, but seems to have lost her baking mojo and needs some clear direction. Of course, having her unofficial ex, Nick Arthur, around all the time makes her process of discovery all the more complicated, as she grapples with her feelings for him.
As Parker figures out her life, Nina Bocci’s The Ingredients of You and Me proves to be delicious and delightful. It explores the conflicted relationship between Parker and Nick, while also giving a glimpse of the series’ previous couples—plus so many mentions of mouth-watering food. Romance fits my mood perfectly right now, so I enjoyed this third trip to Hope Lake so much. If you love romance, too, definitely check this book (and series) out.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
As Parker figures out her life, Nina Bocci’s The Ingredients of You and Me proves to be delicious and delightful. It explores the conflicted relationship between Parker and Nick, while also giving a glimpse of the series’ previous couples—plus so many mentions of mouth-watering food. Romance fits my mood perfectly right now, so I enjoyed this third trip to Hope Lake so much. If you love romance, too, definitely check this book (and series) out.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
May 4, 2020
In this third installment of the Hopeless Romantics series, Nina Bocci returns to the fictional town of Hope Lake for more small town shenanigans, love and a bit of heartache.
Parker Powell has sold her NYC Delicious and Vicious bakery to a major player in anticipation of a less stressful lifestyle and more time for her new relationship with Nick from Hope Lake who she's been seeing on the sly.
When Nick breaks it off by ghosting her before she even has a chance to tell him her good news, Parker is hesitant to return to Hope Lake and run the risk of running into Nick there. But she needs the quiet of the small town and with the thought that no one knows about her and Nick, she returns to Hope Lake, hoping to find her next big venture.
Of course she runs into Nick with some help from the Golden Girls, the town busybodies. They are headed up by the in-your-business Mancini, who happens to know all about Parker's history with Nick. All the Golden Girls love Nick -- he's their go-to guy and just all around nice guy.
But along with seeing Nick again, Parker also gets to hear about his new girlfriend who no one seems to be crazy about.
With help from the Golden Girls, Parker comes up with ideas for a new business that has everyone excited. And she even gets help from her ex and now friend, Nick, who's a small business owner himself. If only that pesky girlfriend no one likes could go away...
I really liked this story. It's not your typical romance since Nick is with someone else for a good part of the story and I found that to be a fresh approach to this romance. It's clear to everyone but Nick that his current girlfriend is too controlling and the sparks with Parker are more likely to turn into fireworks if they would only give them a chance.
I absolutely adored the storyline with the Golden Girls, their recipes and how they really take Parker into their group. Without meddling too much, they see that Parker and Nick are made for each other, and they are going to do whatever they can to make it happen.
Even though Nick's communication skills (or lack of them) bugged the heck out of me, I loved him and Parker together. Parker's love for the Golden Girls warmed my heart and reminded me why I love small town romance -- it's not just about the hero and heroine, it's about the whole town coming together to celebrate the relationships that grow in their town, and there's nothing better than that.
I gobbled this book down in a few days and absolutely loved it. If you like small town romance, this series is a must.
An ARC was provided by the publisher. This is my honest review.
Parker Powell has sold her NYC Delicious and Vicious bakery to a major player in anticipation of a less stressful lifestyle and more time for her new relationship with Nick from Hope Lake who she's been seeing on the sly.
When Nick breaks it off by ghosting her before she even has a chance to tell him her good news, Parker is hesitant to return to Hope Lake and run the risk of running into Nick there. But she needs the quiet of the small town and with the thought that no one knows about her and Nick, she returns to Hope Lake, hoping to find her next big venture.
Of course she runs into Nick with some help from the Golden Girls, the town busybodies. They are headed up by the in-your-business Mancini, who happens to know all about Parker's history with Nick. All the Golden Girls love Nick -- he's their go-to guy and just all around nice guy.
But along with seeing Nick again, Parker also gets to hear about his new girlfriend who no one seems to be crazy about.
With help from the Golden Girls, Parker comes up with ideas for a new business that has everyone excited. And she even gets help from her ex and now friend, Nick, who's a small business owner himself. If only that pesky girlfriend no one likes could go away...
I really liked this story. It's not your typical romance since Nick is with someone else for a good part of the story and I found that to be a fresh approach to this romance. It's clear to everyone but Nick that his current girlfriend is too controlling and the sparks with Parker are more likely to turn into fireworks if they would only give them a chance.
I absolutely adored the storyline with the Golden Girls, their recipes and how they really take Parker into their group. Without meddling too much, they see that Parker and Nick are made for each other, and they are going to do whatever they can to make it happen.
Even though Nick's communication skills (or lack of them) bugged the heck out of me, I loved him and Parker together. Parker's love for the Golden Girls warmed my heart and reminded me why I love small town romance -- it's not just about the hero and heroine, it's about the whole town coming together to celebrate the relationships that grow in their town, and there's nothing better than that.
I gobbled this book down in a few days and absolutely loved it. If you like small town romance, this series is a must.
An ARC was provided by the publisher. This is my honest review.
April 17, 2020
This is the third installment in the Hopeless Romantics series. We’ve met some really amazing characters so far and I was thrilled that there was another book for the series, so of course I jumped at the chance to read it.
Parker Powell was the owner of a upscale bakery shop named Delicious and Vicious up in the big city. Her shop is known for the unique sayings written on them, like “I hope it falls off” for the cheating boyfriend or any other message you would want convey with your unhappiness about. Now that sale of business is complete, she’s packed up and went to Hope Lake to visit her friends. But, she’s lost her mojo when it comes to baking. Plus, there is a man who she shared time with that she has to face or avoid, if possible. Parker needs to find out what is going to make herself happy.
We first meet Parker in the previous book when she came to visit Charlotte, who used to live in New York as well. I really enjoyed her and her spunkiness so I was happy for her story this time. She has a lot on her plate with the sale of the business, her “bakers block” and her feelings for Nick, who basically just stopped calling, so they ended kinda badly. But now being back in town he is front and center in her world. But he has a girlfriend. An over-friendly, needy girlfriend. Even though everyone around the new couple sees what kinda woman she is, Nick of course doesn’t. But Parker keeps her distance, because she is not that kinda girl to come in between someone’s relationship. Kudos for her! That’s not say there isn’t a lot of push and pull between these two. And there are a few times that would have like to be able to shake some sense into him.
There is a few things going on in this story. Parker and her new business adventure with “The Golden Girls” this time around. I love this group of women so much! We also get to see the previous happy couples, Charlotte and Henry and Emma and Cooper too. But front and center was the story of Parker and Nick. This was a story of self discovery and finding ones self with a dash of romance. Romance, which by the way to take forever but in the end it was so worth it! It made my heart so happy.
The Ingredients of You and Me was such wonderful read as it was a light hearted romance story and one I think if your a fan of slow burn romances you’ll enjoy too. The series has been a great one for sure!
Parker Powell was the owner of a upscale bakery shop named Delicious and Vicious up in the big city. Her shop is known for the unique sayings written on them, like “I hope it falls off” for the cheating boyfriend or any other message you would want convey with your unhappiness about. Now that sale of business is complete, she’s packed up and went to Hope Lake to visit her friends. But, she’s lost her mojo when it comes to baking. Plus, there is a man who she shared time with that she has to face or avoid, if possible. Parker needs to find out what is going to make herself happy.
We first meet Parker in the previous book when she came to visit Charlotte, who used to live in New York as well. I really enjoyed her and her spunkiness so I was happy for her story this time. She has a lot on her plate with the sale of the business, her “bakers block” and her feelings for Nick, who basically just stopped calling, so they ended kinda badly. But now being back in town he is front and center in her world. But he has a girlfriend. An over-friendly, needy girlfriend. Even though everyone around the new couple sees what kinda woman she is, Nick of course doesn’t. But Parker keeps her distance, because she is not that kinda girl to come in between someone’s relationship. Kudos for her! That’s not say there isn’t a lot of push and pull between these two. And there are a few times that would have like to be able to shake some sense into him.
There is a few things going on in this story. Parker and her new business adventure with “The Golden Girls” this time around. I love this group of women so much! We also get to see the previous happy couples, Charlotte and Henry and Emma and Cooper too. But front and center was the story of Parker and Nick. This was a story of self discovery and finding ones self with a dash of romance. Romance, which by the way to take forever but in the end it was so worth it! It made my heart so happy.
The Ingredients of You and Me was such wonderful read as it was a light hearted romance story and one I think if your a fan of slow burn romances you’ll enjoy too. The series has been a great one for sure!
June 19, 2020
I've been lucky enough to read all three books in this series, and this one was definitely my favorite. I found it to be a witty read about friendship, forgiveness, second chances, and happiness. While this one could be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend you start at the beginning.
What I loved about this book:
1. Bocci writes authentic characters and realistic romances so I always look forward to reading her next book and this one did not disappoint. Parker is one of those very relatable characters that easily gets you invested in their story and I loved seeing her character evolve. She was an independent female with a kind heart and her friendship with Mancini was one of the best parts of this book.
2. I'll say it again (just like I did in my reviews for the other books), I love the small town of Hope Lake. The community vibe and the people make this a place somewhere I would love to go. While you get to know the town a bit in the first two books, you get to see it grow a little more in this one. The fun and quirky residents of Hope Lake are a huge part of this series appeal.
3. In this book you get to catch up with the previous couples and I loved the where are they now aspect. I also loved getting to read about Henry again, he's definitely my favorite Hope Lake resident.
If you're looking for a heartwarming romance with laugh out loud moments and great characters, look no further than The Hope Lake Series.
What I loved about this book:
1. Bocci writes authentic characters and realistic romances so I always look forward to reading her next book and this one did not disappoint. Parker is one of those very relatable characters that easily gets you invested in their story and I loved seeing her character evolve. She was an independent female with a kind heart and her friendship with Mancini was one of the best parts of this book.
2. I'll say it again (just like I did in my reviews for the other books), I love the small town of Hope Lake. The community vibe and the people make this a place somewhere I would love to go. While you get to know the town a bit in the first two books, you get to see it grow a little more in this one. The fun and quirky residents of Hope Lake are a huge part of this series appeal.
3. In this book you get to catch up with the previous couples and I loved the where are they now aspect. I also loved getting to read about Henry again, he's definitely my favorite Hope Lake resident.
If you're looking for a heartwarming romance with laugh out loud moments and great characters, look no further than The Hope Lake Series.
April 26, 2020
After Parker Adams sells her famous New York City bakery, she feels like she has totally lost her mojo and visits her best friend in the small town of Hope Lake, PA, to think about her next steps (and this has nothing to do with a former love who also happens to live there, nothing at all). Nick Arthur (said former flame) has a new girlfriend, so it should be easy to focus on her new friends the Golden Girls and opening a new bakery. Right?
Hope Lake is a charming small town, and this story will make you want to run away and open up your own dream shop and find love with a handsome young man who shovels snow from old ladies' driveways. This should definitely be turned into a Hallmark movie. Would watch 100x.
The Ingredients of You and Me is the last book in the Hope Lake series, and Nina Bocci really saved the best for last! Parker is my favorite heroine so far and I love that the Golden Girls - the old ladies of the town who basically run everything on top of being the holders of all the best gossip - have a central place in the story. They really are the best part of the series!
Nick is a little bit of a bummer for most of the book, which really annoyed me and almost made me want Parker to move on and find another man; but I can't argue with a happy ending.
Thank you to Nina Bocci, Gallery Books, and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Hope Lake is a charming small town, and this story will make you want to run away and open up your own dream shop and find love with a handsome young man who shovels snow from old ladies' driveways. This should definitely be turned into a Hallmark movie. Would watch 100x.
The Ingredients of You and Me is the last book in the Hope Lake series, and Nina Bocci really saved the best for last! Parker is my favorite heroine so far and I love that the Golden Girls - the old ladies of the town who basically run everything on top of being the holders of all the best gossip - have a central place in the story. They really are the best part of the series!
Nick is a little bit of a bummer for most of the book, which really annoyed me and almost made me want Parker to move on and find another man; but I can't argue with a happy ending.
Thank you to Nina Bocci, Gallery Books, and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 22, 2021
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
I've really enjoyed the other two books in Nina Bocci's small town series. But wow, this book was not was I was expecting. After being on a hamster wheel for a few years, Parker decides to sell her bakery in NYC and heads to Hope Lake for a more relaxed pace and to reconnect with her besties. But she'll also be seeing Nick, the guy who ghosted her after a multi-month fling. And when she gets to Hope Lake, she discovers Nick has a girlfriend.
Now, here's the thing, Parker and Nick, the would be couple in the book aren't together for 90 percent of the book despite bumping into each other non-stop. And while both claim to want closure, they start and stop the "what happened" convo about 10 times. Through the middle, I started skimming because I really didn't care about the project Parker takes on to get her baking mojo back.
Add in Nick's girlfriend who's a world class clinger, turned evil ex, and wow, this one just wasn't for me.
I've really enjoyed the other two books in Nina Bocci's small town series. But wow, this book was not was I was expecting. After being on a hamster wheel for a few years, Parker decides to sell her bakery in NYC and heads to Hope Lake for a more relaxed pace and to reconnect with her besties. But she'll also be seeing Nick, the guy who ghosted her after a multi-month fling. And when she gets to Hope Lake, she discovers Nick has a girlfriend.
Now, here's the thing, Parker and Nick, the would be couple in the book aren't together for 90 percent of the book despite bumping into each other non-stop. And while both claim to want closure, they start and stop the "what happened" convo about 10 times. Through the middle, I started skimming because I really didn't care about the project Parker takes on to get her baking mojo back.
Add in Nick's girlfriend who's a world class clinger, turned evil ex, and wow, this one just wasn't for me.
April 28, 2020
Without a doubt this book is my FAVORITE in this beautiful series about home, friendship and beautiful small town love!
Each book has its own couple finding their way and navigating life in the small town of Hope Lake! This book is no different but what had me hooked and invested is that Parker is a city girl! A city girl who has just made the biggest decision of her life and now she finds herself in the beautiful small town her best friend grew up in! A town that at some point she frequented often!
As she tries to find herself and what comes next she leans on the towns hilarious “Golden Girls”! Parker discovers that maybe her next venture in life isn’t just about her but about the bigger picture of life and well the beauty and wisdom that Nana’s have to offer! With her unknown past with the town bachelor Nick weighing on her Parker tries to find her place in the world!
I absolutely loved the “Golden Girls of Hope Lake”! Their hilarious advice and funny meddling had my heart filled with joy! I absolutely loved my grandma and so much of their antics reminded me of her! I just felt like I could relate to Parker and her journey! At some point we all hit a “what’s next” point in our life! I loved that she took it on fearlessly and didn’t cave when times got tough, but more importantly when it came to Nick I love that she knew her worth, knew when to admit her mistakes and was trying to move on! She was a woman filled with strength and I love a book heroine with strength and determination!
Definitely one of my favorite Nina Bocci stories to date!
Each book has its own couple finding their way and navigating life in the small town of Hope Lake! This book is no different but what had me hooked and invested is that Parker is a city girl! A city girl who has just made the biggest decision of her life and now she finds herself in the beautiful small town her best friend grew up in! A town that at some point she frequented often!
As she tries to find herself and what comes next she leans on the towns hilarious “Golden Girls”! Parker discovers that maybe her next venture in life isn’t just about her but about the bigger picture of life and well the beauty and wisdom that Nana’s have to offer! With her unknown past with the town bachelor Nick weighing on her Parker tries to find her place in the world!
I absolutely loved the “Golden Girls of Hope Lake”! Their hilarious advice and funny meddling had my heart filled with joy! I absolutely loved my grandma and so much of their antics reminded me of her! I just felt like I could relate to Parker and her journey! At some point we all hit a “what’s next” point in our life! I loved that she took it on fearlessly and didn’t cave when times got tough, but more importantly when it came to Nick I love that she knew her worth, knew when to admit her mistakes and was trying to move on! She was a woman filled with strength and I love a book heroine with strength and determination!
Definitely one of my favorite Nina Bocci stories to date!
April 23, 2020
This is a cute novel, one that goes quickly. There were some interesting plot components and without giving anything away I would like to focus on those.
Parker is an accomplished baker with some notoriety. She owns a NYC bakery called Delicious and Vicious, one that specializes in very tasty items that can be ordered up with direct (and sometimes nasty) messages. Need to break up with a needy boyfriend? D&V is the answer.
Parker has appeared on numerous Food Network shows and gained fame, so much so that she is able to sell her little bakery to a large company for enough money to be comfortable. But she loses her baking magic.
She travels back to her best friend's hometown to try to get her mind together (and perhaps work on a budding romance). She hooks up with the town's octogenarian club which has some colorful characters.
As usual, I lose patience with the romance formula and Parker's love interest, Nick, who seems like a super sweet idiot at times.
All-in-all, it was a fun read. There's some heirloom recipes (from the aforementioned octogenarians included).
Parker is an accomplished baker with some notoriety. She owns a NYC bakery called Delicious and Vicious, one that specializes in very tasty items that can be ordered up with direct (and sometimes nasty) messages. Need to break up with a needy boyfriend? D&V is the answer.
Parker has appeared on numerous Food Network shows and gained fame, so much so that she is able to sell her little bakery to a large company for enough money to be comfortable. But she loses her baking magic.
She travels back to her best friend's hometown to try to get her mind together (and perhaps work on a budding romance). She hooks up with the town's octogenarian club which has some colorful characters.
As usual, I lose patience with the romance formula and Parker's love interest, Nick, who seems like a super sweet idiot at times.
All-in-all, it was a fun read. There's some heirloom recipes (from the aforementioned octogenarians included).
April 23, 2020
Oh My Geee...I love Nick and Parker so much!
Gawwww these two...
I got sucked into Hope Lake once again!
Parker is your typical independent lady, while Nick is your typical gentlemen.
These two get together on the down low...things happen...feelings...then Nick "misreads" a situation and we cut to a few months down the road. It's a bit bumpy at first, but these will find out that with a bit of communication almost anything can be solved.
I love the Golden Girl gang so much...I think they need a novella or something LOL
Gawwww these two...
I got sucked into Hope Lake once again!
Parker is your typical independent lady, while Nick is your typical gentlemen.
These two get together on the down low...things happen...feelings...then Nick "misreads" a situation and we cut to a few months down the road. It's a bit bumpy at first, but these will find out that with a bit of communication almost anything can be solved.
I love the Golden Girl gang so much...I think they need a novella or something LOL
May 11, 2022
I wasn’t sure how to feel at first cause I thought the book was going to in the end be extremely predictable, but I ended up liking it. Can I just say… Could NOT stand Jillian. Yikes. I’m glad everyone finally saw her true colors and that things in the end worked out. Don’t want to have too many spoilers here so I’ll just say that I would for sure recommend reading if you like any of Nina’s work. Forever one of my favorite little book towns :)
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