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Carrington's #1
Cupcakes at Carrington's
Georgie Hart loves her job – running the luxury handbag concession at Carrington's Department store in the pretty seaside town of Mulberry-On-Sea, and treating herself (once too often!) to a red velvet cupcake with buttercream icing in Carrington's café.
But Georgie is thrown into disarray when Carrington's is plunged into a recession-busting makeover, cueing the arrival of femme fatale Maxine, who wields the axe in her immaculately-manicured hands.
It spells a recipe for disaster for Georgie and soon she is fighting not only for her job, but also for the attentions of her gorgeous boss, James. And when hot newcomer Tom arrives, who may or may not be the best thing since sliced bread, Georgie must decide where her loyalties really lie…
'A sparkling debut…funny, romantic and utterly charming. Devour in one sitting like a delicious, indulgent cupcake then go back and start
again.' Sasha Wagstaff
'From the moment I read the first page of Alexandra's book, I knew I was being allowed to see something special. I believe that Alexandra has created a very real and likeable cast of characters that will appeal to a wide audience. Her writing style is crisp and funny and compels you to keep turning the page.' Chrissie Manby
'Cupcakes at Carrington's is deliciously delightful from start to finish, sprinkled with magic and full of heart.' Miranda Dickinson
But Georgie is thrown into disarray when Carrington's is plunged into a recession-busting makeover, cueing the arrival of femme fatale Maxine, who wields the axe in her immaculately-manicured hands.
It spells a recipe for disaster for Georgie and soon she is fighting not only for her job, but also for the attentions of her gorgeous boss, James. And when hot newcomer Tom arrives, who may or may not be the best thing since sliced bread, Georgie must decide where her loyalties really lie…
'A sparkling debut…funny, romantic and utterly charming. Devour in one sitting like a delicious, indulgent cupcake then go back and start
again.' Sasha Wagstaff
'From the moment I read the first page of Alexandra's book, I knew I was being allowed to see something special. I believe that Alexandra has created a very real and likeable cast of characters that will appeal to a wide audience. Her writing style is crisp and funny and compels you to keep turning the page.' Chrissie Manby
'Cupcakes at Carrington's is deliciously delightful from start to finish, sprinkled with magic and full of heart.' Miranda Dickinson
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 17, 2013
119 people are currently reading
2753 people want to read
About the author
Alex Brown
26 books469 followersAlex Brown is an International No.1 bestselling author of fourteen books including A Postcard from Italy, the Carrington’s series, The Secret of Orchard Cottage, The Great Christmas Knit Off, The Wish, A Postcard from Paris and the Bridget’s Bicycle Bakery series. Her books are loved worldwide and have been translated into twenty languages.
Alex lives by the sea on the south coast of England with her family and two glossy black Labradors. When she isn’t writing, she can be found walking on the beach, binge-watching a boxset or enjoying a French martini cocktail. She loves chatting to her readers on social media @alexbrownbooks and you can sign up to her newsletter on her website www.alexbrownauthor.com to receive a free short story, The Beach Walk, and also be the first to hear about new books, free extracts and giveaways.
Alex lives by the sea on the south coast of England with her family and two glossy black Labradors. When she isn’t writing, she can be found walking on the beach, binge-watching a boxset or enjoying a French martini cocktail. She loves chatting to her readers on social media @alexbrownbooks and you can sign up to her newsletter on her website www.alexbrownauthor.com to receive a free short story, The Beach Walk, and also be the first to hear about new books, free extracts and giveaways.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
April 4, 2017
Georgie Hart loves her job – running the luxury handbag concession at Carrington's Department store in the pretty seaside town of Mulberry-On-Sea, and treating herself (once too often!) to a red velvet cupcake with buttercream icing in Carrington's café.
But Georgie is thrown into disarray when Carrington's is plunged into a recession-busting makeover, cueing the arrival of femme fatale Maxine.
It spells a recipe for disaster for Georgie and soon she is fighting not only for her job, but also for the attentions of her gorgeous boss, James. And when hot newcomer Tom arrives, who may or may not be the best thing since sliced bread, Georgie must decide where her loyalties really lie…
This book was cute and fun but nothing to recommend. I enjoyed it but didn't love it. Georgie kinda annoyed me and I understand being financially stressed but I thought her actions were stupid. I also couldn't really believe the story and I know it's fiction but I felt like it was just too much. I do like Alexandra Brown as a writer and not everyone can hit a home run with their writing so I will continue to read her books.
But Georgie is thrown into disarray when Carrington's is plunged into a recession-busting makeover, cueing the arrival of femme fatale Maxine.
It spells a recipe for disaster for Georgie and soon she is fighting not only for her job, but also for the attentions of her gorgeous boss, James. And when hot newcomer Tom arrives, who may or may not be the best thing since sliced bread, Georgie must decide where her loyalties really lie…
This book was cute and fun but nothing to recommend. I enjoyed it but didn't love it. Georgie kinda annoyed me and I understand being financially stressed but I thought her actions were stupid. I also couldn't really believe the story and I know it's fiction but I felt like it was just too much. I do like Alexandra Brown as a writer and not everyone can hit a home run with their writing so I will continue to read her books.
January 13, 2018
Still stuck with 3 stars on re-reading.
It is entertaining, with a lovely main character and her circle of friends are adorable, especially Eddie. He may be a typical gay BFF, but he is an absolute SCREAM.
The love interest is also cute, but the author barely lets them any screen/page-time together, so their attraction is not very convincing.
Yet, I am glad I stuck with the series, for the 2nd book Christmas at Carrington's is one of my favourite Xmas-reads and also much better than this one.
It is entertaining, with a lovely main character and her circle of friends are adorable, especially Eddie. He may be a typical gay BFF, but he is an absolute SCREAM.
The love interest is also cute, but the author barely lets them any screen/page-time together, so their attraction is not very convincing.
Yet, I am glad I stuck with the series, for the 2nd book Christmas at Carrington's is one of my favourite Xmas-reads and also much better than this one.
January 17, 2013
Review originally on I Heart.. Chick Lit.
www.iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com
International Giveaway on Valentine's Day!
Well.... What can I say about a book I've been dying to read for ages, which I polished off as soon as I got it in my mailbox? Let me introduce you to Alexandra Brown, lover of chick lit, addict of delectable cupcakes and a real sweetheart! After exchanging tweets a few times, we quickly bonded over our love of chick lit and hot men. Shhh.
When I was told I was on the list for a copy of her debut novel, Cupcakes at Carrington's, I was beyond ecstatic. I whooped. I laughed. I giggled whenever I thought of it. I walked around with a spring in my step. I was on a high. Okay, you probably don't want to know how I felt. Let's just say my sister found it so annoying she told me the world would end and I wouldn't get the chance to read it. I received my copy yesterday, I started it in the evening and finished it half an hour ago. Hardly a day, right?
What I thought about it:
My thoughts are still jumbled up after reading. I'm still missing Georgie's big heart and Eddie, whose gorgeous flair has left me wanting a GBF (gay best friend). So I'll layer things so you won't have a headache when you read this. Here goes!
Cupcakes at Carrington's follows the story of Georgie Hart, a super sweet twenty-something with a penchant for luxury bags and an incurable addiction to red velvet cupcakes with buttercream icing and sprinkles. It's rare to come across a heroine who loves her job - hardly so. In Georgie's case, she loves hers because she's blooming good at what she does. She runs the Women's Accessories department at Carrington's and frankly, I'm pretty jealous. I would LOVE to caress lovely, soft leather handbags and the smell of newness on them is mouth-watering. Ugh, how disgusting of me.
Everything seems to be going her way until disaster strikes and the perfect job is turned into a helpless pursuit to fight for her job. Enter the femme fatale, Maxine. Stuck-up and a horrendous cow. Putting everyone's job at stake and making life working at Carrington's a living hell with her manipulative ways, making perfectly sure everyone suffers. Oh, no! How could I have forgotten. Introducing devastating heartthrob, Tom. Handsome, flirty and utterly delicious Tom. Without giving much away, of course. You'll have to read it to know what happens. *wink*
Georgie Hart is such a down-to-earth, sweet, adorable heroine. She's friendly, she gets on with anyone who is everyone, well except certain people of course. She's a wonderful character, humble and kind to all around her. I think the both of us would hit if off pretty well. I can imagine us having cupcakes at Cupcakes at Carrington's, gossiping with Eddie and Sam over a lovely cup of milky tea. She carries herself very well in the book, how she tells everything that's happening around her. I loved how I could relate to her feasibly - from sharing her heart-skips-a-beat moments to the painful, heartbreaking stabs of her past. Although on the surface, this may seem like a fun, feel-good chick lit book, but there are some heartbreaking parts in the book which would compel you to give your heart out to Georgie.
The characters in the book were amazing to read about - they were really real - a wonderful presence in the book as they made it more fun and colourful. Georgie's GBF, Eddie is such a winner for a best friend. He's the kind of friend you'd rely on and would confide in him without a moment's doubt. If I can say so myself, I kind of fell in love with him from the first chapter. You'll know why. He's charming, adorable and I have a massive crush on him. Sadly, he's fictional. Georgie's other best friend, Sam is another darling friend I would want to have, super supportive and understanding. Despite being extremely loaded, how shallow of me, she is adamant that she has a job. I really like her for that, instead of being one of those spoilt Chelsea girls, she's a rather lovely girl with a big heart. And as for the gorgeous, panty-ripping handsome blokes, I'll let you read so you'll experience the fireworks in your stomach, the flips and of course, the flutters and blushes.
The book is written from Georgie's point of view and I really enjoyed reading it from her perspective. Alexandra's (Alex) writing is fresh, upcoming and it complements the plot as it really worked for me. However clichéd this may sound, it was a book I could escape to. Pure escapism for me. I let go all my worries and thought accumulated over the past weeks and delved into it wholeheartedly. The book is set in Mulberry-On-Sea, a picturesque seaside town as opposed to the busy metropolitan London. The characters were fabulous. The plot carried me throughout the book and made me fall in love with the characters, Carrington's and even Dusty the Labrador!
Verdict:
I loved it. Here, I've said it. Perfect for you if you loved Ali Harris's Miracle on Regent Street, the Shopaholic series by Sophie Kinsella and the I Heart series by Lindsey Kelk, not to mention Meet Me at The Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan!
A sparkling debut by Alexandra Brown, probably one of the best books I've read these past months. You'll devour this delicious slice of chick lit like how you polish off your favourite cupcake. Sinfully delectable and delightful.
Look out for my INTERVIEW WITH GEORGIE HART and INTERNATIONAL GIVEAWAY on Valentine's Day.
I'm giving one lucky reader a copy of Cupcakes at Carrington's!
Rating : 5/5
www.iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com
International Giveaway on Valentine's Day!
Well.... What can I say about a book I've been dying to read for ages, which I polished off as soon as I got it in my mailbox? Let me introduce you to Alexandra Brown, lover of chick lit, addict of delectable cupcakes and a real sweetheart! After exchanging tweets a few times, we quickly bonded over our love of chick lit and hot men. Shhh.
When I was told I was on the list for a copy of her debut novel, Cupcakes at Carrington's, I was beyond ecstatic. I whooped. I laughed. I giggled whenever I thought of it. I walked around with a spring in my step. I was on a high. Okay, you probably don't want to know how I felt. Let's just say my sister found it so annoying she told me the world would end and I wouldn't get the chance to read it. I received my copy yesterday, I started it in the evening and finished it half an hour ago. Hardly a day, right?
What I thought about it:
My thoughts are still jumbled up after reading. I'm still missing Georgie's big heart and Eddie, whose gorgeous flair has left me wanting a GBF (gay best friend). So I'll layer things so you won't have a headache when you read this. Here goes!
Cupcakes at Carrington's follows the story of Georgie Hart, a super sweet twenty-something with a penchant for luxury bags and an incurable addiction to red velvet cupcakes with buttercream icing and sprinkles. It's rare to come across a heroine who loves her job - hardly so. In Georgie's case, she loves hers because she's blooming good at what she does. She runs the Women's Accessories department at Carrington's and frankly, I'm pretty jealous. I would LOVE to caress lovely, soft leather handbags and the smell of newness on them is mouth-watering. Ugh, how disgusting of me.
Everything seems to be going her way until disaster strikes and the perfect job is turned into a helpless pursuit to fight for her job. Enter the femme fatale, Maxine. Stuck-up and a horrendous cow. Putting everyone's job at stake and making life working at Carrington's a living hell with her manipulative ways, making perfectly sure everyone suffers. Oh, no! How could I have forgotten. Introducing devastating heartthrob, Tom. Handsome, flirty and utterly delicious Tom. Without giving much away, of course. You'll have to read it to know what happens. *wink*
Georgie Hart is such a down-to-earth, sweet, adorable heroine. She's friendly, she gets on with anyone who is everyone, well except certain people of course. She's a wonderful character, humble and kind to all around her. I think the both of us would hit if off pretty well. I can imagine us having cupcakes at Cupcakes at Carrington's, gossiping with Eddie and Sam over a lovely cup of milky tea. She carries herself very well in the book, how she tells everything that's happening around her. I loved how I could relate to her feasibly - from sharing her heart-skips-a-beat moments to the painful, heartbreaking stabs of her past. Although on the surface, this may seem like a fun, feel-good chick lit book, but there are some heartbreaking parts in the book which would compel you to give your heart out to Georgie.
The characters in the book were amazing to read about - they were really real - a wonderful presence in the book as they made it more fun and colourful. Georgie's GBF, Eddie is such a winner for a best friend. He's the kind of friend you'd rely on and would confide in him without a moment's doubt. If I can say so myself, I kind of fell in love with him from the first chapter. You'll know why. He's charming, adorable and I have a massive crush on him. Sadly, he's fictional. Georgie's other best friend, Sam is another darling friend I would want to have, super supportive and understanding. Despite being extremely loaded, how shallow of me, she is adamant that she has a job. I really like her for that, instead of being one of those spoilt Chelsea girls, she's a rather lovely girl with a big heart. And as for the gorgeous, panty-ripping handsome blokes, I'll let you read so you'll experience the fireworks in your stomach, the flips and of course, the flutters and blushes.
The book is written from Georgie's point of view and I really enjoyed reading it from her perspective. Alexandra's (Alex) writing is fresh, upcoming and it complements the plot as it really worked for me. However clichéd this may sound, it was a book I could escape to. Pure escapism for me. I let go all my worries and thought accumulated over the past weeks and delved into it wholeheartedly. The book is set in Mulberry-On-Sea, a picturesque seaside town as opposed to the busy metropolitan London. The characters were fabulous. The plot carried me throughout the book and made me fall in love with the characters, Carrington's and even Dusty the Labrador!
Verdict:
I loved it. Here, I've said it. Perfect for you if you loved Ali Harris's Miracle on Regent Street, the Shopaholic series by Sophie Kinsella and the I Heart series by Lindsey Kelk, not to mention Meet Me at The Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan!
A sparkling debut by Alexandra Brown, probably one of the best books I've read these past months. You'll devour this delicious slice of chick lit like how you polish off your favourite cupcake. Sinfully delectable and delightful.
Look out for my INTERVIEW WITH GEORGIE HART and INTERNATIONAL GIVEAWAY on Valentine's Day.
I'm giving one lucky reader a copy of Cupcakes at Carrington's!
Rating : 5/5
July 5, 2013
Reading this reminded me why I stopped reading chick lit.
It had the ditzy but good-hearted central character, the obligatory gay bff and in spite of the fact that she described her looks as average, the central character had two impossibly handsome chaps competing for her.
Every time anyone had anything important to say, they would be interrupted by something or someone; and I mean EVERY TIME.
The token evil character was like a panto villain and there were lots of other characters who had no real role in the story but would pop up from time to time, interrupt something important and then not be seen again for another few chapters.
I really had to force myself to finish this one.
It had the ditzy but good-hearted central character, the obligatory gay bff and in spite of the fact that she described her looks as average, the central character had two impossibly handsome chaps competing for her.
Every time anyone had anything important to say, they would be interrupted by something or someone; and I mean EVERY TIME.
The token evil character was like a panto villain and there were lots of other characters who had no real role in the story but would pop up from time to time, interrupt something important and then not be seen again for another few chapters.
I really had to force myself to finish this one.
June 10, 2015
Sinopsis :
Georgie Hart sangat mencintai pekerjaannya di bagian penjualan tas mewah di Carrington’s Departement Store di kota tepi pantai yang cantik. Dia juga doyan sekali makan red Velvet cupcakes dengan lapisan krim mentega yang menggiurkan di Kafe Depstor Carrington.
Suatu hari, Carrington’s harus mengalami perombakan akibat resesi, dan datanglah si femme fatale Maxine dengan tangan besi bermanikur yang rapi nan terawat. Georgie mulai panik karena dia harus berjuang diri mempertahankan pekerjaan, juga merebut perhatian atasanya yang tampan, James. Saat Tom si anak baru yang ganteng bergabung dengan Carrington’s. namun Georgie tiba-tiba sadar harus memutuskan di mana kesetiaan dia benar-benar berbohong.
My Review :
Well, untuk pertama kalinya saya membaca novel Chicklit pengarang Alexandra Brown. dan coverlah yang membuatku tertarik, entah kenapa cover itu terlihat manis nan menggoda yang kupikir cerita pasti tentang makanan manis namun ternyata dugaanku salah. Dalam cerita awal hingga pertengahan saya dibuat bingung sedikit, karena isinya menceritakan seorang penjaga toko di mall yang sedang berusaha melunaskan utang tentek bengek, bahkan begitu detailnya pekerjaan sebagai penjaga toko, karena ini sangat tidak biasa bagiku. Apalagi novel ini ternyata novel bersambung alias novel series.
Baiklah, dalam Cupcakes Carrington’s merupakan novel bersambung seri pertama, kisah wanita muda bernama Georgie Hart sangat manis, berumur 20 tahun, berambut coklat sebahu dengan model bob-sesuatu kecenderungan dengan kegemaran tas mewah dan kecanduan Cupcake Red Velvet dengan lapisan krim mentega dan taburan.
Sangat jarang untuk menemukan karakter wanita yang mencintai pekerjaannya – nyaris tidak begitu. Dalam kasus Georgie, dia mencintai miliknya, karena dia sgt berkembang dg baik pada apa yang dia lakukan. Dia menjalankan departement di bagian aksesories wanita di Carrington dan terus terang, aku cukup iri. Aku akan senang untuk mengelus tas indah, bahkan tas kulit yang lembut dan bau kebaruan lezat. Ugh, Saya begitu menginginkan. Dan oh ya, saya juga menyukai tas yang baru. Hahaha….
Awalnya semua tampak jalannya baik2 saja sehingga sampai terjadi bencana dan pekerjaan yang sempurna berubah menjadi pengejaran tak berdaya untuk memperjuangkan pekerjaannya. Muncullah femme fatale, Maxine. Terjebak dan begitu mengerikan. Menempatkan pekerjaan setiap orang dipertaruhkan dan membuat hidup neraka bekerja di Carrington dengan cara manipulatif, membuatnya sangat yakin semua orang menderita. Oh tidak! Bagaimana aku bisa lupa. Tidak hanya si Maxine tetapi kehadiran bintang pujaan dahsyat, Tom. Tampan, genit dan benar-benar seksi setinggi langit, tentu saja. kau harus membacanya untuk mengetahui apa yang terjadi. Hihihi…
Georgie Hart adalah wanita membumi, apa adanya, manis, mengemaskan. Dia ramah, dia selalu fokus dengan siapa saja di sekitarnya, kecuali orang-orang tertentu saja. Dia adalah karakter wanita menakjubkan dan rendah hati. Georgie juga sangat senang bergosip dengan Eddie dan Sam, Sahabat sejak masa sekolah suka minum secangkir teh susu. Aku sangat menikmati membaca buku ini dengan bagaimana saya bisa berhubungan Georgie dengan praktisnya - dari berbaginya saat jantung-melompat dengan menyakitkan, menusuk memilukan dari masa lalunya. Meskipun seluruhnya, agak membingungkan tetapi juga menyenangkan, tapi ada beberapa bagian memilukan dalam buku yang akan memaksa Anda untuk memberikan hati Anda kepada Georgie.
Buku ini ditulis dari sudut pandang Georgie dan Saya sangat menikmati membacanya dari sudut pandangnya. Alexandra membuat alur cerita yang begitu segar, romantis, menggoda. Mendadak saya jadi tidak sabar membaca selanjutnya, semoga berikutnya bakal diterjemahin.
I'm curious about Georgie and Tom's relationship ...
Oh! Valentine is full of fantasy and romantic and comforting at all !!
January 17, 2013
I’ve been excited about this book for ages, and I mean AGES! I couldn’t wait until the month turned to January so that I could have the amazing opportunity to delve into the world of Carrington’s, and what a world it is!
Georgie Hart has in my opinion one of the best jobs in the world – she runs the luxury handbag concession at Carrington’s Department Store. Not only does Georgie love her job, but her best friend Sam also works in Carrington’s, running the Cafe where Georgie’s favourite delicious red velvet cupcakes are served, so she loves to pop there for a treat and a gossip! However, Carrington’s is plunged into a makeover, with the intimidating, bossy Maxine coming in to change things up, inciting panic in the hearts of the staff over whether their jobs will be safe. But Georgie hasn’t just got her job to think about – to her delight, Georgie’s gorgeous boss James has started focusing his attentions on her. And when the mysterious and handsome newcomer Tom arrives, Georgie finds herself pulled in very different directions, and the adventure is only just beginning…
I LOVED Cupcakes At Carrington’s! To sum it all up in one word: Wow. I Couldn’t put it down – I sat down to start reading and before I knew it, I was more than half-way through. I was so gripped that I was up late last night desperate to find out the next part, telling my fiancé ”I’m going to sleep soon, I just MUST know what happens next!”
This book is glamorous! Think of the feeling you get when you walk into Harrods, Harvey Nichols or a really posh and expensive store, the excitement at seeing the beautiful handbags, the gorgeous clothing, the smell of the exotic perfume and the atmosphere – Well reading Cupcakes At Carrington’s is all of that rolled into one! Whilst reading I could almost feel the softness of the handbags, hear the accents of the staff and customers, and I became so involved in all of this that it felt as though I had just walked through the main doors into Carrington’s and was watching Georgie’s scenes unfold in front of me.
The characters are fantastically written, I cannot fault a single one! I warmed to Georgie from the first page, she is so likeable and throughout the book I was cheering her on not only in her job but hoping she might find her Mr Right too! Eddie was my favourite character – he is just FABULOUS! He made me laugh with the phrases he came out with, and I wasn’t just laughing, I actually had tears streaming down my face! I would LOVE to have Eddie as my best friend, and I can’t wait to hear more from him! Then there are the eligible men…Wow. James and Tom are handsome! I was having hot flushes just reading about them, and throughout I was wishing for romance! Handsome James seemed very confident which made him very alluring, and Tom was mysterious, sexy and not giving away much about who he was or his intentions, which made me want to read on to discover more about him. Throw both of these men into the mix with Georgie and trust me, the story is sizzling, there is fantastic flirtation and it is gripping!
Even the villains were perfectly written. As a reader I had such strong emotions and dislike towards them, which shows that Alexandra Brown has excelled in her writing to be able to provoke such feelings from a reader! They were believable, very realistic and they created a great pace to the story, adding a sense of danger and suspense.
The Cafe was a brilliant addition to Carrington’s, I loved how it was central in the story – the place to be for gossip, and the atmosphere was wonderful. The descriptions of the treats on offer in the Cafe had me longing to visit and sample a red velvet cupcake!
After I had finished the book, I was desperate for more from Alexandra Brown. Then to my extreme delight I discovered that there are more books to come from the Carrington’s series, and I cannot wait to read more from the talented Alexandra!
Cupcakes At Carrington’s is glamorous, it is fun, and it is fabulous! There is humour, romance, and a lot of beautiful handbags included in this book, not to mention the cupcakes! Cupcakes At Carrington’s is a firm favourite of mine, and a book which should be essential to everyone’s bookshelves, so buy a copy and indulge yourself in the glorious world of Carrington’s! An exceptional debut!
Georgie Hart has in my opinion one of the best jobs in the world – she runs the luxury handbag concession at Carrington’s Department Store. Not only does Georgie love her job, but her best friend Sam also works in Carrington’s, running the Cafe where Georgie’s favourite delicious red velvet cupcakes are served, so she loves to pop there for a treat and a gossip! However, Carrington’s is plunged into a makeover, with the intimidating, bossy Maxine coming in to change things up, inciting panic in the hearts of the staff over whether their jobs will be safe. But Georgie hasn’t just got her job to think about – to her delight, Georgie’s gorgeous boss James has started focusing his attentions on her. And when the mysterious and handsome newcomer Tom arrives, Georgie finds herself pulled in very different directions, and the adventure is only just beginning…
I LOVED Cupcakes At Carrington’s! To sum it all up in one word: Wow. I Couldn’t put it down – I sat down to start reading and before I knew it, I was more than half-way through. I was so gripped that I was up late last night desperate to find out the next part, telling my fiancé ”I’m going to sleep soon, I just MUST know what happens next!”
This book is glamorous! Think of the feeling you get when you walk into Harrods, Harvey Nichols or a really posh and expensive store, the excitement at seeing the beautiful handbags, the gorgeous clothing, the smell of the exotic perfume and the atmosphere – Well reading Cupcakes At Carrington’s is all of that rolled into one! Whilst reading I could almost feel the softness of the handbags, hear the accents of the staff and customers, and I became so involved in all of this that it felt as though I had just walked through the main doors into Carrington’s and was watching Georgie’s scenes unfold in front of me.
The characters are fantastically written, I cannot fault a single one! I warmed to Georgie from the first page, she is so likeable and throughout the book I was cheering her on not only in her job but hoping she might find her Mr Right too! Eddie was my favourite character – he is just FABULOUS! He made me laugh with the phrases he came out with, and I wasn’t just laughing, I actually had tears streaming down my face! I would LOVE to have Eddie as my best friend, and I can’t wait to hear more from him! Then there are the eligible men…Wow. James and Tom are handsome! I was having hot flushes just reading about them, and throughout I was wishing for romance! Handsome James seemed very confident which made him very alluring, and Tom was mysterious, sexy and not giving away much about who he was or his intentions, which made me want to read on to discover more about him. Throw both of these men into the mix with Georgie and trust me, the story is sizzling, there is fantastic flirtation and it is gripping!
Even the villains were perfectly written. As a reader I had such strong emotions and dislike towards them, which shows that Alexandra Brown has excelled in her writing to be able to provoke such feelings from a reader! They were believable, very realistic and they created a great pace to the story, adding a sense of danger and suspense.
The Cafe was a brilliant addition to Carrington’s, I loved how it was central in the story – the place to be for gossip, and the atmosphere was wonderful. The descriptions of the treats on offer in the Cafe had me longing to visit and sample a red velvet cupcake!
After I had finished the book, I was desperate for more from Alexandra Brown. Then to my extreme delight I discovered that there are more books to come from the Carrington’s series, and I cannot wait to read more from the talented Alexandra!
Cupcakes At Carrington’s is glamorous, it is fun, and it is fabulous! There is humour, romance, and a lot of beautiful handbags included in this book, not to mention the cupcakes! Cupcakes At Carrington’s is a firm favourite of mine, and a book which should be essential to everyone’s bookshelves, so buy a copy and indulge yourself in the glorious world of Carrington’s! An exceptional debut!
January 9, 2014
I give Cupcakes at Carringtons * * * * stars.
I found Cupcakes to be a fantastic, immensely enjoyable read. Such a fabulous debut for Alexandra, surely she must be in reality, Georgie herself?!
This book is set in Carrington’s, the high quality Department Store where the main character Georgie has worked for years. Georgie loves her job running the luxury handbag concession in Carrington’s, where her gay best friend Eddie and her best friend Sam also work. Sam runs the Carrinton’s Cafe, where Georgie & the staff spend an awful lot of time discussing events and eating deliciously tempting cupcakes! It truly feels like the hub of Carrington’s, and gossip central for the staff.
Carrington’s is very special to Georgie – she was brought up with memories of visiting regularly with her late mother and in the present day, it’s her home from home with her best friends and the daily gossip that surround the store. It’s these strong bonds that keep the story flowing and the reader hooked.
You find many twists and turns for the various characters through the book, each one interesting, captivating and leaving you gasping for more as every page turns! As in reality, we don’t like every one we meet… but so descriptive is Alexandra’s prose that love them or hate them, we want to live in their world and we are addicted to finding out their fate. We are also left feeling slightly envious of Georgie’s choice of delectable men, Tom and James – all I can voice about those two is ‘Yuummm…’ ;)
The writing transports you into the store with it’s glamour, luxury goods and exotic fragrances – along with the need to munch sweet, scrumptious cupcakes of course!
Overall a witty, vibrant, laugh out loud gem of a debut from Alexandra Brown and it doesn’t end here! Brown has already released a shot story follow up called Me & Mr Carrington which is a prequel to Christmas at Carrington’s! So if you loved Cupcakes, you can be transported to Carrington’s again and again!
I found Cupcakes to be a fantastic, immensely enjoyable read. Such a fabulous debut for Alexandra, surely she must be in reality, Georgie herself?!
This book is set in Carrington’s, the high quality Department Store where the main character Georgie has worked for years. Georgie loves her job running the luxury handbag concession in Carrington’s, where her gay best friend Eddie and her best friend Sam also work. Sam runs the Carrinton’s Cafe, where Georgie & the staff spend an awful lot of time discussing events and eating deliciously tempting cupcakes! It truly feels like the hub of Carrington’s, and gossip central for the staff.
Carrington’s is very special to Georgie – she was brought up with memories of visiting regularly with her late mother and in the present day, it’s her home from home with her best friends and the daily gossip that surround the store. It’s these strong bonds that keep the story flowing and the reader hooked.
You find many twists and turns for the various characters through the book, each one interesting, captivating and leaving you gasping for more as every page turns! As in reality, we don’t like every one we meet… but so descriptive is Alexandra’s prose that love them or hate them, we want to live in their world and we are addicted to finding out their fate. We are also left feeling slightly envious of Georgie’s choice of delectable men, Tom and James – all I can voice about those two is ‘Yuummm…’ ;)
The writing transports you into the store with it’s glamour, luxury goods and exotic fragrances – along with the need to munch sweet, scrumptious cupcakes of course!
Overall a witty, vibrant, laugh out loud gem of a debut from Alexandra Brown and it doesn’t end here! Brown has already released a shot story follow up called Me & Mr Carrington which is a prequel to Christmas at Carrington’s! So if you loved Cupcakes, you can be transported to Carrington’s again and again!
June 13, 2013
I was really excited about reading Cupcakes at Carringtons, the cover art is lovely and the cover blurb enticing so I made sure I was ready to begin reading this immediately it was delivered to my Kindle.
It sounded like a perfect recipe for a good book - Carrington's a small department store is failing in the recession and the store and it's staff (chiefly Georgie in Ladies Accessories) need to downsize staff numbers. How will this impact the store and it's close knit team, who is the mysterious new salesperson Tom and what exactly does the scheming analyst in charge of the restructure have in store.
I found the book started well but lost it's way a little - there were a lot of characters introduced very quickly, not touched upon for several chapters then they'd dot up again making me have to think hard about who they were then off they'd flit again for ages. The main character does lack proverbial backbone but to be fair does have redeeming qualities. The love triangle at the books core is a little weak and clearly designed to be followed through into subsequent instalments which adds to the overall lack of closure at the end of the book.
I liked many of the characters and the setting is a great concept but some of the plot lines were over-complicated and under written. I'd give Carringtons another whirl with book 2 but maybe in the Sale this time???
It sounded like a perfect recipe for a good book - Carrington's a small department store is failing in the recession and the store and it's staff (chiefly Georgie in Ladies Accessories) need to downsize staff numbers. How will this impact the store and it's close knit team, who is the mysterious new salesperson Tom and what exactly does the scheming analyst in charge of the restructure have in store.
I found the book started well but lost it's way a little - there were a lot of characters introduced very quickly, not touched upon for several chapters then they'd dot up again making me have to think hard about who they were then off they'd flit again for ages. The main character does lack proverbial backbone but to be fair does have redeeming qualities. The love triangle at the books core is a little weak and clearly designed to be followed through into subsequent instalments which adds to the overall lack of closure at the end of the book.
I liked many of the characters and the setting is a great concept but some of the plot lines were over-complicated and under written. I'd give Carringtons another whirl with book 2 but maybe in the Sale this time???
October 4, 2015
**Blurb from kindle edition**
Georgie Hart had it all – as a top personal shopper in London, the heady world of Mulberry launch parties and Louis Vuitton goody bags meant she was living the dream. But all that extravagance took its toll on her bank balance and it was time to stop drinking champagne on beer money.
Now Georgie runs the luxury bag concession at Carrington’s Department store in the pretty seaside town of Mulberry Bay and her lavish spending is confined to a red velvet cupcake with butter cream icing in Carrington’s cafe.
? Blurb suggests Georgie was working in London & moved to Mulberry Bay. It is Mulberry on Sea in the book and I don't recall any mention of Georgie working in London in the book that I read. At one point she says she has worked at Carringtons since leaving school ........................ Presumably someone was over-enthusiastic writing the blurb & mixed up a few other books as well.
So the book was a nice light read, but don't go off the blurb to find out what it is about.
June 20, 2014
Warning contains spoilers!
I'm really shocked at how many high ratings this books has received. I thought it was poorly plotted, rushed, predictable and incredibly annoying. The main character does nothing to warm herself to you and many of the other characters are so one dimensional it's difficult to remember they exist.
The final chapters just feel a tad rushed it's the equivalent of and I woke up and it was all a dream. Georgie's sudden acceptance of her father so much so that she's moved when her best friend asks him to give her away makes no sense at all! The oh Tom is the new owner and wanted her all along is terrible constructed with no depth or personality to him.
I know there are more in the series but with great writers like Freya North releasing new books I'd save your time and avoid anything at Carringtons
I'm really shocked at how many high ratings this books has received. I thought it was poorly plotted, rushed, predictable and incredibly annoying. The main character does nothing to warm herself to you and many of the other characters are so one dimensional it's difficult to remember they exist.
The final chapters just feel a tad rushed it's the equivalent of and I woke up and it was all a dream. Georgie's sudden acceptance of her father so much so that she's moved when her best friend asks him to give her away makes no sense at all! The oh Tom is the new owner and wanted her all along is terrible constructed with no depth or personality to him.
I know there are more in the series but with great writers like Freya North releasing new books I'd save your time and avoid anything at Carringtons
May 7, 2015
I used to very much love reading Brit chick-lit & it's been quite a while since I've delved into one. This caught my eye for a few reasons, the Brit chick-lit thing, that its setting is a department store & that I'm looking very much forward to Mr. Selfridge. This is part of my Downton Abbey season gap therapy, so don't judge. I am also happy that this book is the first in a series. I liked all of the characters & really liked Georgie, so I want to see how this all plays out.
There's the usual retail therapy, brand name flurry & the main character with money troubles but instead of it being staid & boring, Georgie made it fresh. The descriptions of Sam's tea shop made me want to pull up a cupcake & stay a while. The same feel applied to the description of Carrington's. I liked taking a break & "shopping" vicariously as Georgie narrated. She had me at "handbag". I automatically adored Cieran, Sam & Eddie. Tina not only had a bad attitude she had horrendous taste. Her description of what she was having at the wedding was cringeworthy, gave me Kyle/Chardonnay (Footballer's Wives) nuptial flashbacks & I rooted for & then reveled in everything crashing and burning around her. It was great payoff & only second to Camille's epic takedown. Maxine was also perfect in her role as stress-inducing hatchet woman when she swooped down on Carrington's to revitalise & restructure. Kon Malikov was easy to spot as a problem & it only got worse when the necklace entered the picture. And James... ugh. Not worth half the angst Georgie expended on him. I was all-in for Tom from the start. He just struck me as the one for Georgie. Through it all, as Georgie was trying not to but still creeping along making the small mistakes that inevitably would snowball, I cringed & waited but I never stopped caring that she'd make it all okay in the end. Even when she was being a ninny, double-doubting herself & not speaking up when she should, I was never fed up enough not to stick with her. I was willing her to quit the job, get out from the work stress & paranoia & get a decent night's sleep. I liked her & rooted for her all the way.
This was just the thing I needed to read. A bit of a light-hearted story with pretty things & just enough problems woven in to keep the story fresh but not weigh it down. I was smiling when it was over. I'll be looking forward to the next in the series.
There's the usual retail therapy, brand name flurry & the main character with money troubles but instead of it being staid & boring, Georgie made it fresh. The descriptions of Sam's tea shop made me want to pull up a cupcake & stay a while. The same feel applied to the description of Carrington's. I liked taking a break & "shopping" vicariously as Georgie narrated. She had me at "handbag". I automatically adored Cieran, Sam & Eddie. Tina not only had a bad attitude she had horrendous taste. Her description of what she was having at the wedding was cringeworthy, gave me Kyle/Chardonnay (Footballer's Wives) nuptial flashbacks & I rooted for & then reveled in everything crashing and burning around her. It was great payoff & only second to Camille's epic takedown. Maxine was also perfect in her role as stress-inducing hatchet woman when she swooped down on Carrington's to revitalise & restructure. Kon Malikov was easy to spot as a problem & it only got worse when the necklace entered the picture. And James... ugh. Not worth half the angst Georgie expended on him. I was all-in for Tom from the start. He just struck me as the one for Georgie. Through it all, as Georgie was trying not to but still creeping along making the small mistakes that inevitably would snowball, I cringed & waited but I never stopped caring that she'd make it all okay in the end. Even when she was being a ninny, double-doubting herself & not speaking up when she should, I was never fed up enough not to stick with her. I was willing her to quit the job, get out from the work stress & paranoia & get a decent night's sleep. I liked her & rooted for her all the way.
This was just the thing I needed to read. A bit of a light-hearted story with pretty things & just enough problems woven in to keep the story fresh but not weigh it down. I was smiling when it was over. I'll be looking forward to the next in the series.
December 31, 2013
Life may be sweet at Carringtons but its sure not for Georgie Hart. Up to her eyebrows in debt and in fear of losing her job in charge of Carringtons' luxury handbag department Georgie's little ray of sunshine comes from her good friend Sam and her fabulous red velvet cupcakes (good call Georgie!).
On top of overbearing oligarchs and Maxine - the retail consultant from hell, Georgie has an overdose of male attention in the form of her boss, James, smouldering newcomer Tom and good friend Ciaran who's fiancée Tina is adamant something is going on between them. What's a girl to do? Can Georgie climb out of this catastrophe or will it be Oh Crumbs at Carringtons?!
I enjoyed reading Cupcakes for two reasons. Firstly, the book is well written with oodles of fab gregarious characters, wicked dialogue and plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy moments. Secondly, I love looooooove books set in department stores. I don't know why - maybe its a throwback to Saturday trips to Owen Owen with my grandmother. Who knows? Anyway, the descriptions of Carringtons were a delight and just take a moment to appreciate that cover...that's it...scroll back up...it's just perfect.
The very good news is that this book is the first in a series and I'm so looking forward to reading more.
On top of overbearing oligarchs and Maxine - the retail consultant from hell, Georgie has an overdose of male attention in the form of her boss, James, smouldering newcomer Tom and good friend Ciaran who's fiancée Tina is adamant something is going on between them. What's a girl to do? Can Georgie climb out of this catastrophe or will it be Oh Crumbs at Carringtons?!
I enjoyed reading Cupcakes for two reasons. Firstly, the book is well written with oodles of fab gregarious characters, wicked dialogue and plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy moments. Secondly, I love looooooove books set in department stores. I don't know why - maybe its a throwback to Saturday trips to Owen Owen with my grandmother. Who knows? Anyway, the descriptions of Carringtons were a delight and just take a moment to appreciate that cover...that's it...scroll back up...it's just perfect.
The very good news is that this book is the first in a series and I'm so looking forward to reading more.
December 21, 2015
A light, easy read but there are far better 'chick-lit' books!
I've downloaded all 4 books in the series though, so hope they get better!
I've downloaded all 4 books in the series though, so hope they get better!
March 12, 2023
I did not love this book. The characters were over the top and not realistic. The main character annoyed me and I wanted to shake her when she slept with her boss who wasn't even divorced yet. (He never got divorced, so I guess that means he cheated?) I also hated the gross owner who constantly cheated on his wife and the overall blase attitude about sex. It should mean something. This book reduces it to just a funny bodily function where no one really has any feelings about it. We even have a couple getting married where the groom is gay and cheating on her with a guy. 🙄 Does anyone in this book have any morals? Not my cup of tea.
April 19, 2018
Nice easy read. Lovely setting of a Department store with a little touch of old fashioned service.
September 8, 2021
Super cute book.
August 20, 2021
I love Alex Brown’s writing and this is again a brilliant story. Georgie is so relatable - a completely human character with flaws, but so compassionate and warm. The whole family atmosphere at Carringtona made for a compelling story and I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
January 19, 2013
Since I first saw the cover of Cupcakes at Carrington’s and then read the synopsis I couldn’t wait for the new year to come around so I could get my hands on a copy and delve into the world of Carrington’s!
Where life is sweeter... Georgie Hart had it all – as a top personal shopper in London, the heady world of Mulberry launch parties and Louis Vuitton goody bags meant she was living the dream. But all that extravagance took its toll on her bank balance and it was time to stop drinking champagne on beer money. Now Georgie runs the luxury bag concession at Carrington’s Department store in the pretty seaside town of Mulberry Bay and her lavish spending is confined to a red velvet cupcake with butter cream icing in Carrington’s cafe. But her plans for a quiet life are thwarted when Carrington’s goes into a recession-busting makeover and soon, with the arrival of Maxine, wielding the axe in her immaculately-manicured hands, Georgie is fighting not only for her job, but also for the attentions of her dishy boss, James. And when newcomer Tom arrives, who may or may not be the best thing since sliced bread, Georgie must decide where her loyalties really lie...
FANTASTIC!
I cannot believe this is the author’s debut book. The storyline flowed beautifully catching our interest and teasing our taste buds from the first page! The cover is classy and chic and I was hoping the storyline was going to be in fitting with the cover and true to form it was. With Georgie having a dream job working in the glamorous Clarrington’s department store on woman’s accessories selling unbelievable priced handbags which I could only dream of owning and then on her breaks being able to pop along to her best friend Sam’s cafe for a delicious red velvet cupcake. All this sounds like pure perfection but poor Georgie’s life is far from perfect.
Brown creates a wonderful cast of characters in this book but not all are lovable we have our characters we love to hate too and even these characters were brought to life through Browns descriptive writing. The friendships the author creates seem genuine and I found the friendship between Georgie and Sam very touching when they come together at a very difficult time. I loved the male characters in this book I found Tom had an air of mystery surrounding his character I couldn't tell if he was a good guy or a bad guy until all becomes clear later in the book. The authors descriptive writing doesn't stop with the characters it continues in creating the perfect setting inside the department store. Carrington's came to life in this book you felt as though you were walking around this store with the characters and you can visualize the merchandise that the characters are surrounded by.
I was hoping that there would be more mention of cupcakes but then that is the greedy sugar monster in me picking holes in the book! I couldn’t put this book down so I ended up reading into the small hours of the morning just to get to the end I was well and truly hooked by this entertaining and addictive book I am so pleased to hear that the story doesn’t end with this book, I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out later in the year I for one will be eagerly awaiting getting my hands on the next book. I can highly recommend this book it is pure enjoyment on every page so treat yourself to this deliciously entertaining read on this cold winter day.
Where life is sweeter... Georgie Hart had it all – as a top personal shopper in London, the heady world of Mulberry launch parties and Louis Vuitton goody bags meant she was living the dream. But all that extravagance took its toll on her bank balance and it was time to stop drinking champagne on beer money. Now Georgie runs the luxury bag concession at Carrington’s Department store in the pretty seaside town of Mulberry Bay and her lavish spending is confined to a red velvet cupcake with butter cream icing in Carrington’s cafe. But her plans for a quiet life are thwarted when Carrington’s goes into a recession-busting makeover and soon, with the arrival of Maxine, wielding the axe in her immaculately-manicured hands, Georgie is fighting not only for her job, but also for the attentions of her dishy boss, James. And when newcomer Tom arrives, who may or may not be the best thing since sliced bread, Georgie must decide where her loyalties really lie...
FANTASTIC!
I cannot believe this is the author’s debut book. The storyline flowed beautifully catching our interest and teasing our taste buds from the first page! The cover is classy and chic and I was hoping the storyline was going to be in fitting with the cover and true to form it was. With Georgie having a dream job working in the glamorous Clarrington’s department store on woman’s accessories selling unbelievable priced handbags which I could only dream of owning and then on her breaks being able to pop along to her best friend Sam’s cafe for a delicious red velvet cupcake. All this sounds like pure perfection but poor Georgie’s life is far from perfect.
Brown creates a wonderful cast of characters in this book but not all are lovable we have our characters we love to hate too and even these characters were brought to life through Browns descriptive writing. The friendships the author creates seem genuine and I found the friendship between Georgie and Sam very touching when they come together at a very difficult time. I loved the male characters in this book I found Tom had an air of mystery surrounding his character I couldn't tell if he was a good guy or a bad guy until all becomes clear later in the book. The authors descriptive writing doesn't stop with the characters it continues in creating the perfect setting inside the department store. Carrington's came to life in this book you felt as though you were walking around this store with the characters and you can visualize the merchandise that the characters are surrounded by.
I was hoping that there would be more mention of cupcakes but then that is the greedy sugar monster in me picking holes in the book! I couldn’t put this book down so I ended up reading into the small hours of the morning just to get to the end I was well and truly hooked by this entertaining and addictive book I am so pleased to hear that the story doesn’t end with this book, I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out later in the year I for one will be eagerly awaiting getting my hands on the next book. I can highly recommend this book it is pure enjoyment on every page so treat yourself to this deliciously entertaining read on this cold winter day.
March 18, 2013
When I heard about Alexandra Brown’s debut novel Cupcakes At Carrington’s, I was really excited. I loved the concept, I loved the title, I loved the fact it was the first novel in a series (three books currently, maybe more, who knows?) and when the cover was released I nearly died because it was utterly gorgeous. It’s one of the finest book covers I have ever seen, and the best bit is, it looks even better in real life with shiny gold/orange-y lettering. I pre-ordered it as soon as I did my January books Amazon order and I was so chuffed when it eventually dispatched, earlier than I expected, though it wasn’t soon enough! I dived in as soon as it arrived, and it was a really good read.
First, let me clear up the negatives I had. Get ‘em out of the way, as soon as possible. The first problem I had with the book was Georgie herself. She was a bit weak-willed. She cried a lot, she spent so much time worrying about other people’s motives and what other people were up to, and she was never very sure of herself. I didn’t like that, I do not like that at all in Chick Lit characters because it’s pretty much seen as the norm. It seems that a Chick Lit main character cannot be pretty, skinny, confident, or kick-ass. Instead, she must be weak-willed and fear everyone in the world, ever, is prettier and shinier and skinnier. I love the genre so, so much, but I hate that cliche so bad. I liked Georgie in the end, but I wanted her to be firmer with her decisions, less wishy-washy. The only other problem was her flip-flopping between James and Tom. She was fawning over James one minute, but then drooling over how hoooot Tom was the next. It was confusing. But that’s all, and I hate typing it anyway because I don’t want to point out any bad bits, but I wouldn’t be a good blogger if I didn’t, so there they are and that was all, apart from that I did really, really like the novel.
There’s loads I liked about the novel. I loved the setting, I thought Carringtons sounded like such a fabulous place to work but more than that such a fabulous place to shop! I loved the sound of the Cupcakes Sam made, I’m actually on a diet at the moment so I was drooling at all the red velvet cupcake eating that was going on. Georgie despite her neuroses was actually a really likeable character. As was her best mate Sam, and lots of her colleague especially Tom. I’d have liked if there was more interaction between Georgie and Tom especially as most of their interactions ended with Georgie feeling embarrassed. I’d have liked more flirting, we’re told of the sparks but rarely shown them, y’know?
I very much look forward to the second Carringtons novel, though I am a bit concerned – Georgie a reality star? Hmm. I’m not sold on it just yet! Cupcakes at Carringtons was a really good read. It wasn’t perfect and I did have a few issues but I found that when I had finished the book that I was smiling so I can’t complain too vociferously. It did what it said on the tin and I did find myself lost in all the drama and goings-on. I would definitely recommend the book, I really, really enjoyed it.
First, let me clear up the negatives I had. Get ‘em out of the way, as soon as possible. The first problem I had with the book was Georgie herself. She was a bit weak-willed. She cried a lot, she spent so much time worrying about other people’s motives and what other people were up to, and she was never very sure of herself. I didn’t like that, I do not like that at all in Chick Lit characters because it’s pretty much seen as the norm. It seems that a Chick Lit main character cannot be pretty, skinny, confident, or kick-ass. Instead, she must be weak-willed and fear everyone in the world, ever, is prettier and shinier and skinnier. I love the genre so, so much, but I hate that cliche so bad. I liked Georgie in the end, but I wanted her to be firmer with her decisions, less wishy-washy. The only other problem was her flip-flopping between James and Tom. She was fawning over James one minute, but then drooling over how hoooot Tom was the next. It was confusing. But that’s all, and I hate typing it anyway because I don’t want to point out any bad bits, but I wouldn’t be a good blogger if I didn’t, so there they are and that was all, apart from that I did really, really like the novel.
There’s loads I liked about the novel. I loved the setting, I thought Carringtons sounded like such a fabulous place to work but more than that such a fabulous place to shop! I loved the sound of the Cupcakes Sam made, I’m actually on a diet at the moment so I was drooling at all the red velvet cupcake eating that was going on. Georgie despite her neuroses was actually a really likeable character. As was her best mate Sam, and lots of her colleague especially Tom. I’d have liked if there was more interaction between Georgie and Tom especially as most of their interactions ended with Georgie feeling embarrassed. I’d have liked more flirting, we’re told of the sparks but rarely shown them, y’know?
I very much look forward to the second Carringtons novel, though I am a bit concerned – Georgie a reality star? Hmm. I’m not sold on it just yet! Cupcakes at Carringtons was a really good read. It wasn’t perfect and I did have a few issues but I found that when I had finished the book that I was smiling so I can’t complain too vociferously. It did what it said on the tin and I did find myself lost in all the drama and goings-on. I would definitely recommend the book, I really, really enjoyed it.
October 27, 2013
Who says chick lit is dead? Alexandra Brown's debut novel Cupcakes at Carrington's was a delightful reminder that rumours of chick lit's demise are greatly exaggerated.
But first the one downside. If you buy this book because you are fixated on cupcakes, then I'm afraid you will be very disappointed. Cupcakes play very little part in the story at all, apart from the fact that main character Georgie's best friend, Sam, owns the Cupcake Cafe at Carrington's Department store in Mulberry-On-Sea (I kid you not ... even the town's name is delightful). So now we have that one potential disappointment out of the way (although red velvet cupcakes do make the occasional welcome appearance), on to all the wonderful things Alexandra Brown brings to us in this novel.
For starters, the characters are fun but not ridiculously overblown. True to chick lit form, Georgie does get herself into some scrapes, and at times I was a little unsure how she was going to get out of them (Russian mobster, anyone?). Some are completely unintentional (see previous note regarding Russian mobster), and some are very much her own making (i.e. her mounting debt problem). However, even when in the midst of her own mess, the reader feels a sense of compassion, not irritation, for Georgie. Her life, to date, has not had too many high points. In fact, working at Carrington's Department Store has been her greatest pleasure in many years--until the arrival of ex-Pageant Queen, Maxine, as the new management superstar set to shake staff out of their comfort zones.
Although some parts of the story were reasonably predictable, that didn't spoil my enjoyment at all. And, fear not, there were still a few surprises along the way, leading to a very satisfying ending (with the promise of more to come in the Carrington's series).
I have to admit, it has been quite a while since I reached the end of a book and kept reading through the tacked on bits that come after. In this case, a brief interview with author Alexandra Brown, her acknowledgements, and a quick introduction to the next book in the series (coming in November 2013). But with Cupcakes at Carrington's, that is exactly what I did. I was in no hurry to say goodbye to Georgie and her friends. In fact, I immediately downloaded Alexandra's short story, Me and Mr. Carrington to tide me over until Book 2 is released next month.
If you are a chick lit lover, particularly British chick lit, then you will probably enjoy Cupcakes at Carrington's as much as I did.
But first the one downside. If you buy this book because you are fixated on cupcakes, then I'm afraid you will be very disappointed. Cupcakes play very little part in the story at all, apart from the fact that main character Georgie's best friend, Sam, owns the Cupcake Cafe at Carrington's Department store in Mulberry-On-Sea (I kid you not ... even the town's name is delightful). So now we have that one potential disappointment out of the way (although red velvet cupcakes do make the occasional welcome appearance), on to all the wonderful things Alexandra Brown brings to us in this novel.
For starters, the characters are fun but not ridiculously overblown. True to chick lit form, Georgie does get herself into some scrapes, and at times I was a little unsure how she was going to get out of them (Russian mobster, anyone?). Some are completely unintentional (see previous note regarding Russian mobster), and some are very much her own making (i.e. her mounting debt problem). However, even when in the midst of her own mess, the reader feels a sense of compassion, not irritation, for Georgie. Her life, to date, has not had too many high points. In fact, working at Carrington's Department Store has been her greatest pleasure in many years--until the arrival of ex-Pageant Queen, Maxine, as the new management superstar set to shake staff out of their comfort zones.
Although some parts of the story were reasonably predictable, that didn't spoil my enjoyment at all. And, fear not, there were still a few surprises along the way, leading to a very satisfying ending (with the promise of more to come in the Carrington's series).
I have to admit, it has been quite a while since I reached the end of a book and kept reading through the tacked on bits that come after. In this case, a brief interview with author Alexandra Brown, her acknowledgements, and a quick introduction to the next book in the series (coming in November 2013). But with Cupcakes at Carrington's, that is exactly what I did. I was in no hurry to say goodbye to Georgie and her friends. In fact, I immediately downloaded Alexandra's short story, Me and Mr. Carrington to tide me over until Book 2 is released next month.
If you are a chick lit lover, particularly British chick lit, then you will probably enjoy Cupcakes at Carrington's as much as I did.
October 26, 2013
I love stories in department stores and Cupcakes at Carrington’s is no exception.
The story begins on the shop floor with Georgie and we get to know a bit about our characters. Eddie, MD Walter Davenport’s ‘Boy Assistant’ is fabulously portrayed. His mannerisms and actions are typically stereotyped and everyone will be able to identify with him. Sam, Georgie’s best friend and managing the café on the 5th floor, is full of optimism and sparkle (and gets to hear all the gossip). Georgie herself is so anxious about her past and her financial difficulties that she is very vulnerable. She’s often naïve about the actions of others but is also very good at putting her foot down when it’s needed.
With the store losing sales, Walter brings in Maxine which results in competition between James (Georgie’s boss) and Tom (the newcomer). Maxine is the ultimate bitch boss who plays them off against each other. The character we all love to hate :)
Past employees are also involved with Mrs Grace still knowing all the gossip and giving Georgie some valuable information.
With sub-plots weaving in and out of the main plot, this is not only about Georgie, although the story is narrated from her perspective. I found my heart-pounding with Russian Kon (and not in a good way!) and tears later on for Sam. Tears even when Georgie visits her father. There are some hilarious scenes too. I just loved the girls out on Sam’s birthday – the image is still very vivid in my mind! The teambuilding weekend … Georgie finding herself in a compromising position was extremely funny. I was cackling when she was on the phone to Sam.
The flowing plot and writing style enabled me to be completely caught up in these character’s lives. I felt quite sad when I finished so was excited to find out that a short story Me and Mr Carrington is available now AND Christmas at Carrington’s is being published in Kindle format on 7th November and paperback 5th December. I don’t have long to wait before I can get back into this world that Brown has created!
I purchased Cupcakes at Carrington’s in Kindle format a long time ago and recently re-discovered it while browsing on my Kindle.
The story begins on the shop floor with Georgie and we get to know a bit about our characters. Eddie, MD Walter Davenport’s ‘Boy Assistant’ is fabulously portrayed. His mannerisms and actions are typically stereotyped and everyone will be able to identify with him. Sam, Georgie’s best friend and managing the café on the 5th floor, is full of optimism and sparkle (and gets to hear all the gossip). Georgie herself is so anxious about her past and her financial difficulties that she is very vulnerable. She’s often naïve about the actions of others but is also very good at putting her foot down when it’s needed.
With the store losing sales, Walter brings in Maxine which results in competition between James (Georgie’s boss) and Tom (the newcomer). Maxine is the ultimate bitch boss who plays them off against each other. The character we all love to hate :)
Past employees are also involved with Mrs Grace still knowing all the gossip and giving Georgie some valuable information.
With sub-plots weaving in and out of the main plot, this is not only about Georgie, although the story is narrated from her perspective. I found my heart-pounding with Russian Kon (and not in a good way!) and tears later on for Sam. Tears even when Georgie visits her father. There are some hilarious scenes too. I just loved the girls out on Sam’s birthday – the image is still very vivid in my mind! The teambuilding weekend … Georgie finding herself in a compromising position was extremely funny. I was cackling when she was on the phone to Sam.
The flowing plot and writing style enabled me to be completely caught up in these character’s lives. I felt quite sad when I finished so was excited to find out that a short story Me and Mr Carrington is available now AND Christmas at Carrington’s is being published in Kindle format on 7th November and paperback 5th December. I don’t have long to wait before I can get back into this world that Brown has created!
I purchased Cupcakes at Carrington’s in Kindle format a long time ago and recently re-discovered it while browsing on my Kindle.
November 25, 2015
Recensione sul sito LA FENICE BOOK
Il romanzo è stato una vera scoperta, frizzante, elegante, spontaneo e con una scrittura meravigliosamente scorrevole! Mi sono ricreduta, forse perchè non mi attendevo alcunchè o forse perchè non avevo idea di cosa avrei potuto leggere ma mi ha stupita. Contiene tutte le note fondamentali che un romance rosa dovrebbe contenere...Non solo scrittura frivola e allegra come ho letto in molti romanzi ma attenta, studiata, che parla di ben altre nozioni fondamentali che esistono nella vita. Mai frivolo, mai scontato e pieno di passione, emozione, sentimenti repressi e allegria.
Il grande magazzino Carrington è semplicemente unico, le sue descrizioni mi hanno fatto sognare, quasi uno stile di altri tempi e modi, ho trovato quello stile personale che mi ha fatto amare completamente il libro. Il Carrington’s Café, poi è uno dei miei posti preferiti, la proprietaria è Sam l'amica di Georgie, la protagonista, ed è semplicemente unico, con tutti i suoi dolcetti caldi... mi ha fatto venire voglia di mangiare un bel cupcake red velvet!
Il libro è solare e incisivo, i personaggi ben descritti e come in ogni romanzo che si rispetti tutti assumono le loro parti in maniera egregia e fino in fondo, sono stati inserite così tante personalità che ne sono rimasta estasiata e affascinata, soprattutto da Eddie!
L'unico neo che forse non mi è piaciuto, è che la casa Ed. abbia cambiato il titolo originale ma le sono grata per aver lasciato questa stupenda e adorabile copertina, quasi originale cambiando solo i colori.
In definitiva, sono rimasta completamente soddisfatta e compiaciuta di aver letto Amiche, segreti e bollicine, un romanzo segretamente avvincente; ve lo consiglio vivamente, la storia spensierata ma allo stesso tempo forte e decisa, con temi importanti alza di molto il livello di questo splendido romanzo rosa! Una chicca davvero meravigliosa!
Al Cupcakes at Carrington's dove tutti vorrebbero bere un caffè e godersi un bel dolcetto caldo e gustoso! Natale a Carrington aspettami ...sto arrivando.
Il romanzo è stato una vera scoperta, frizzante, elegante, spontaneo e con una scrittura meravigliosamente scorrevole! Mi sono ricreduta, forse perchè non mi attendevo alcunchè o forse perchè non avevo idea di cosa avrei potuto leggere ma mi ha stupita. Contiene tutte le note fondamentali che un romance rosa dovrebbe contenere...Non solo scrittura frivola e allegra come ho letto in molti romanzi ma attenta, studiata, che parla di ben altre nozioni fondamentali che esistono nella vita. Mai frivolo, mai scontato e pieno di passione, emozione, sentimenti repressi e allegria.
Il grande magazzino Carrington è semplicemente unico, le sue descrizioni mi hanno fatto sognare, quasi uno stile di altri tempi e modi, ho trovato quello stile personale che mi ha fatto amare completamente il libro. Il Carrington’s Café, poi è uno dei miei posti preferiti, la proprietaria è Sam l'amica di Georgie, la protagonista, ed è semplicemente unico, con tutti i suoi dolcetti caldi... mi ha fatto venire voglia di mangiare un bel cupcake red velvet!
Il libro è solare e incisivo, i personaggi ben descritti e come in ogni romanzo che si rispetti tutti assumono le loro parti in maniera egregia e fino in fondo, sono stati inserite così tante personalità che ne sono rimasta estasiata e affascinata, soprattutto da Eddie!
L'unico neo che forse non mi è piaciuto, è che la casa Ed. abbia cambiato il titolo originale ma le sono grata per aver lasciato questa stupenda e adorabile copertina, quasi originale cambiando solo i colori.
In definitiva, sono rimasta completamente soddisfatta e compiaciuta di aver letto Amiche, segreti e bollicine, un romanzo segretamente avvincente; ve lo consiglio vivamente, la storia spensierata ma allo stesso tempo forte e decisa, con temi importanti alza di molto il livello di questo splendido romanzo rosa! Una chicca davvero meravigliosa!
Al Cupcakes at Carrington's dove tutti vorrebbero bere un caffè e godersi un bel dolcetto caldo e gustoso! Natale a Carrington aspettami ...sto arrivando.
March 11, 2013
Georgie hart loves her job. She runs the luxury handbag counter at Carrington's Department store. It is also the place that holds fonds memories for her and her mum, who died when she was young.
All is going along nicely untill Maxine is brought in to do a recession-busting makeover. This puts Georgie into a tailspin, she worries about her personal mounting debt and what will happen if she looses her job. At the same time Maxine arrives Tom also turns up and he is one yummy man, Georgie falls in lust as soon as she sees him, she does have some very funny moments with him in the book. However she really likes James her boss, but he is married, They do hook up while James is going through marriage troubles,have a fall out and eventually end up back as friends.
This book, has its daily drama going on behind the scenes, that will make you laugh and maybe want to slap a couple of the characters. Georgie has a generous heart,99% of the staff like her. She has a wonderful friend, Sam who she has known for years, sam manages the cafe at Carringtons and is a wonderful cook. Georgie and Sam support each other thruogh the ups and downs and you will laugh and cry along with them.
Maxine is one horrible woman, and she causes a lot of stress for a lot of the staff, she is not liked and Georgie not only has to fight for her Job, but also ends up having to make a difficult decision. I will say Georgie did at times have the courage to stick up for her self. I wish I had that same courage. We also find out why Georgie dosn't have anything to do with her Father, So as the story goes on Georgie learns a lesson of how to accept that people make mistakes and you need to forgive.
It was a slow start, but then I am a slow reader, but this book is worth a read. I just wish it came with a Cupcake recipe, just to sweeten the deal. I look forward to more fun and drama of the life of Georgie Hart in the next book.
All is going along nicely untill Maxine is brought in to do a recession-busting makeover. This puts Georgie into a tailspin, she worries about her personal mounting debt and what will happen if she looses her job. At the same time Maxine arrives Tom also turns up and he is one yummy man, Georgie falls in lust as soon as she sees him, she does have some very funny moments with him in the book. However she really likes James her boss, but he is married, They do hook up while James is going through marriage troubles,have a fall out and eventually end up back as friends.
This book, has its daily drama going on behind the scenes, that will make you laugh and maybe want to slap a couple of the characters. Georgie has a generous heart,99% of the staff like her. She has a wonderful friend, Sam who she has known for years, sam manages the cafe at Carringtons and is a wonderful cook. Georgie and Sam support each other thruogh the ups and downs and you will laugh and cry along with them.
Maxine is one horrible woman, and she causes a lot of stress for a lot of the staff, she is not liked and Georgie not only has to fight for her Job, but also ends up having to make a difficult decision. I will say Georgie did at times have the courage to stick up for her self. I wish I had that same courage. We also find out why Georgie dosn't have anything to do with her Father, So as the story goes on Georgie learns a lesson of how to accept that people make mistakes and you need to forgive.
It was a slow start, but then I am a slow reader, but this book is worth a read. I just wish it came with a Cupcake recipe, just to sweeten the deal. I look forward to more fun and drama of the life of Georgie Hart in the next book.
November 2, 2014
This was on my "to read" list forever and hard to find in book form because it's a British publisher. I was excited to finally find it and then, let down.
I'm sure it's called "Cupcakes at Carrington's" because cupcakes are so marketable right now. I'm sure if they could have figured out a way to put a bare chested man on the cover, that would have been done too.
So, the Cupcake Cafe is a side character run by Sam. She is the rich best friend of Georgie, our heroine and the main character. She works at Carrington's department store frequenting the cupcake cafe on her breaks. Georgie sells fine handbags and is a top seller.
She has to be because she is deep in debt due to her own foolishness and some trouble caused by her father. He embezzled, gambled and ended up in prison about the time Georgie's mother died from M.S. sending Georgie into foster care.
These things are some of the items that weigh on and define Georgie when we meet her. Quickly, things pile up including the upcoming reconfiguration of Carrington's, a Russian businessman and a double dose of romantic complications.
It's a mishmash that borders on cliche until you slog through to the rushed and contrived happy ending. At least I have one more book off my "To Read" list.
I'm sure it's called "Cupcakes at Carrington's" because cupcakes are so marketable right now. I'm sure if they could have figured out a way to put a bare chested man on the cover, that would have been done too.
So, the Cupcake Cafe is a side character run by Sam. She is the rich best friend of Georgie, our heroine and the main character. She works at Carrington's department store frequenting the cupcake cafe on her breaks. Georgie sells fine handbags and is a top seller.
She has to be because she is deep in debt due to her own foolishness and some trouble caused by her father. He embezzled, gambled and ended up in prison about the time Georgie's mother died from M.S. sending Georgie into foster care.
These things are some of the items that weigh on and define Georgie when we meet her. Quickly, things pile up including the upcoming reconfiguration of Carrington's, a Russian businessman and a double dose of romantic complications.
It's a mishmash that borders on cliche until you slog through to the rushed and contrived happy ending. At least I have one more book off my "To Read" list.
July 8, 2015
I really loooove its cover!
Hidup Georgie ini bikin yang baca kasian, jengkel, nggak habis pikir di saat yang bersamaan. Dan soal kegalauannya karena menjomblo itu?
Duh, ya tapi nggak seharusnya juga kan tiba-tiba langsung kencan 'serius' dengan cowok yang sudah lama ditaksir di malam pertama. Belum lagi sebenarnya yang membuat G merasa berdebar-debar itu sebenarnya bukan orang yang sama.
Masalah penuh sepanjang cerita dan apa yang terjadi pada ayah G nggak dijelaskan, atau memang belum, mengingat ada buku keduanya? Selain itu, solusi yang terjadi di belakang memang di luar dugaanku, tapi kesannya sedikit..., terburu-buru. Atau mungkin sengaja dibuat begitu untuk menutupi rencana akhir G itu?
Dan jangan lupa karakter Sam yang jadi favoritku di buku ini. Nggak heran mengingat Sam punya ayah yang kepribadiannya menyenangkan. Dan, siapa coba yang nggak mau punya sahabat yang jago bikin kue dan kita selalu kecipratan kue-kue lezat ituuu? *dasar, ternyata ada maunya*
Overall, buku ini bagus. I liked it.
Hidup Georgie ini bikin yang baca kasian, jengkel, nggak habis pikir di saat yang bersamaan. Dan soal kegalauannya karena menjomblo itu?
Duh, ya tapi nggak seharusnya juga kan tiba-tiba langsung kencan 'serius' dengan cowok yang sudah lama ditaksir di malam pertama. Belum lagi sebenarnya yang membuat G merasa berdebar-debar itu sebenarnya bukan orang yang sama.
Masalah penuh sepanjang cerita dan apa yang terjadi pada ayah G nggak dijelaskan, atau memang belum, mengingat ada buku keduanya? Selain itu, solusi yang terjadi di belakang memang di luar dugaanku, tapi kesannya sedikit..., terburu-buru. Atau mungkin sengaja dibuat begitu untuk menutupi rencana akhir G itu?
Dan jangan lupa karakter Sam yang jadi favoritku di buku ini. Nggak heran mengingat Sam punya ayah yang kepribadiannya menyenangkan. Dan, siapa coba yang nggak mau punya sahabat yang jago bikin kue dan kita selalu kecipratan kue-kue lezat ituuu? *dasar, ternyata ada maunya*
Overall, buku ini bagus. I liked it.
July 12, 2014
When I first started the book I found it overwhelmingly packed with information piled upon information. The flow of the book felt quite forced to what I was used to but I did find that once the author appeared to have established everything it is she wanted the flow of the story calmed down and became a much more enjoyable read.
Overall I found that Cupcakes at Carrington's was a good chick lit book and I have decided after much thought that I will continue with the rest of the series, but mostly because of curiousity as opposed to absolutely loving the book.
Maybe I will grow to love it? But I am sad that I didn't love it immediately as the premise of it sounded fantastic and right up my ally for a good chick lit for the weekend. I'm sure though that others may find it more appealing than I did.
Overall I found that Cupcakes at Carrington's was a good chick lit book and I have decided after much thought that I will continue with the rest of the series, but mostly because of curiousity as opposed to absolutely loving the book.
Maybe I will grow to love it? But I am sad that I didn't love it immediately as the premise of it sounded fantastic and right up my ally for a good chick lit for the weekend. I'm sure though that others may find it more appealing than I did.
October 8, 2019
Not my kind of cupcake, red velvet. Especially not at morning break or everyday and yet, the fave food of main character Georgie who works Women's Accessories at Carrington's, the premier shop in Brighton on the seaside, and, really, not my kind of book. Too fluffy, too soap-opera-ish, too Rodeo Drive, too glam and fam, just too too much chick lit.
Can't fault the characters or writing, pretty authentic for style, setting, plot (posh dame consultant takes over the store and vamps it to her liking while ditching staff left and right---arrrggghhh all around) and result but me, I skipped ahead a lot to the end once I hit the middle.
For fans of this genre, go for it, a romp and a half.
Can't fault the characters or writing, pretty authentic for style, setting, plot (posh dame consultant takes over the store and vamps it to her liking while ditching staff left and right---arrrggghhh all around) and result but me, I skipped ahead a lot to the end once I hit the middle.
For fans of this genre, go for it, a romp and a half.
November 7, 2014
3.5
Give me anything with a café and/or cupcakes and I read it. I have no idea where that facination is coming from but I love reading about cafés and bars.
The story started kind of slow and wasn't able to catch me all the way. It is a cute story, though the title is a bit misleading in my opinion as the café is not playing a major role in the book.
Still it was an enjoyable read with loveable characters and I am looking forward to the christmas book in the Carrington series.
Give me anything with a café and/or cupcakes and I read it. I have no idea where that facination is coming from but I love reading about cafés and bars.
The story started kind of slow and wasn't able to catch me all the way. It is a cute story, though the title is a bit misleading in my opinion as the café is not playing a major role in the book.
Still it was an enjoyable read with loveable characters and I am looking forward to the christmas book in the Carrington series.
July 15, 2015
As soon as I read the cover I knew this was a book I was going to love and I wasn't wrong !! I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful read from start to finish for me personally it appealed to a lot of things I love and in a way kind of reminded me of the devil wears prada . I'm very glad this is one of three and the story continues I don't think I'd ever get bored of them☺
January 20, 2019
DNF - I just really didn’t like all the conspiring in the background atmosphere, I hate all that. I also found the main character a little immature and frustrating, having got herself into all that debt, she still buys an expensive new dress for her friend’s party. If her friend is a good friend, she’d understand wearing an existing one!
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